Assembly for manufacturing the door drive device for adjusting a vehicle door relative to a vehicle body

Abstract

An assembly for manufacturing a door drive device (2) for adjusting a vehicle door (11) relative to a vehicle body (10) comprises a motor (20) having a motor shaft (200) rotatable about a motor axis (M), a gearbox (25) having at least one gear (250), a housing assembly (28) to which the motor (20) can be connected, a spindle (24) rotatable about a longitudinal axis (L), a push rod (21), and an adapter element (22) for connecting the door drive device (2) to the vehicle door (11) or the vehicle body (10). The housing assembly (28) can be connected to the adapter element (22) for mounting the door drive device (2). In a pre-assembled state, the housing assembly (28) can be connected to the adapter element (22) in different positions rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis (L).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an assembly for manufacturing the door drive device for adjusting a vehicle door relative to a vehicle body according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention further relates to a door drive device and a method for manufacturing a door drive device.

[0002] Such an assembly comprises a motor with a motor shaft rotatable about a motor axis. The assembly also includes a gearbox with at least one gear wheel, a housing assembly to which the motor can be connected, a spindle rotatable about a longitudinal axis, a push rod, and an adapter element for connecting the door drive device to the vehicle door or vehicle body. The housing assembly can be connected to the adapter element for mounting the door drive device. In a mounted position, the motor is connected to the adapter element via the housing assembly. In the mounted position, the motor is operatively connected to the spindle via the gearbox, and the spindle, driven by the motor, can be rotated about its longitudinal axis to move the push rod for adjusting the vehicle door.

[0003] A door drive device for adjusting a vehicle door relative to a vehicle body is known, for example, from DE 10 2018 131 933 A1.

[0004] Another design of a door drive device with a spindle drive is known from WO 2021 / 023893 A1. This door drive device includes an adapter element connected to a housing assembly, which serves to fix the door drive device to a vehicle door. A motor is connected to the adapter element via the housing assembly and is fixed in an operating position on the vehicle door by means of the adapter element.

[0005] While the design of a housing assembly for a door drive device, as known, for example, from WO 2021 / 023893 A1, is determined by the construction of the door drive device itself, the adapter element is designed so that the door drive device can be installed in a specific vehicle model. The adapter element is therefore usually individually adapted to a specific vehicle model.

[0006] If the alignment of the motor relative to the vehicle door needs to be adjusted, this traditionally requires a redesign, especially of the housing assembly, which is costly and may necessitate using different housing assemblies for different vehicle models.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide an assembly for manufacturing a door drive device, a door drive device and a method for manufacturing the door drive device, which enable a simple, cost-effective design, in particular of a housing assembly.

[0008] This problem is solved by an object having the features of claim 1.

[0009] Accordingly, it is intended that in a pre-assembly state the housing assembly can be connected to the adapter element in different positions rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis.

[0010] Traditionally, the adapter element is individually adapted to a specific vehicle model according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications and allows the door drive unit to be attached by connecting the adapter element to the vehicle. While a conventional interface between the housing assembly and the adapter element allows the housing assembly to be attached to the adapter element in only one defined position, this design allows the housing assembly to be connected to the adapter element in different positions, rotated relative to each other around the longitudinal axis of the spindle nut. Thus, during the installation of the door drive unit, the housing assembly can be connected to the adapter element while aligned in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0011] This allows, in particular, the alignment of the motor shaft around the longitudinal axis along which the spindle extends. The installation position of the motor can thus be adjusted by the variable connection of the housing assembly to the adapter element, so that a uniform housing design can be used for different orientations of the motor around the longitudinal axis of the spindle.

[0012] The motor axis corresponds to the axis around which the motor shaft rotates. The longitudinal axis, on the other hand, corresponds to the axis around which the spindle for moving the push rod rotates. The motor axis is generally distinct from the longitudinal axis. Due to the variable alignment of the housing assembly relative to the adapter element, the position of the motor axis relative to the longitudinal axis can be adjusted, thus allowing for variable motor orientation for installation in the vehicle door or vehicle body.

[0013] Because no custom housing design is required to adjust the motor's orientation, cost savings can result. A housing assembly that connects the motor to the adapter element and, for example, encloses transmission components, is typically highly complex and requires correspondingly complex tooling, such as an injection mold. Since no modification or redesign of the housing assembly, and therefore no new tooling for manufacturing a modified housing assembly, is necessary when the motor's orientation needs to be adjusted for installation in a specific vehicle model, the manufacturing costs for the door drive unit are reduced.

[0014] The housing assembly can be connected to the adapter element in different positions rotated relative to each other around the longitudinal axis. The angular position of the housing assembly relative to the adapter element is therefore variable around the longitudinal axis, whereby the angular position can be selected, for example, as a full circle (360°) around the longitudinal axis or, if necessary, only within an angular range of a partial circle (less than 360°, for example, less than 180°).

[0015] In the assembled position, the housing assembly is advantageously fixed and positionally immutable to the adapter element. In the operational, assembled position, there is thus a fixed connection between the housing assembly and the adapter element, so that the motor is fixedly connected to the adapter element via the housing assembly.

[0016] The motor axis is generally different from the longitudinal axis. The motor axis is preferably not parallel to the longitudinal axis, i.e., it has a different direction than the longitudinal axis.

[0017] In particular, the motor axis, around which the motor shaft is rotatable, can be arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis. Geometrically, an angled arrangement means that the motor axis and the longitudinal axis neither intersect nor are parallel to each other. Due to this angled arrangement, a drive element mounted on the motor shaft, for example, a drive worm, can mesh with a gear wheel that is rotatable around the longitudinal axis, such as a spur gear with straight teeth or helical teeth.

[0018] The motor shaft can, for example, extend along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. By selecting the rotational position of the housing assembly about the longitudinal axis, the position of the motor shaft in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis can be determined. However, such an arrangement of the motor shaft is not mandatory. In particular, the motor shaft can also be oriented at an angle to the longitudinal axis, for example, at an oblique angle. In such cases, by selecting the rotational position of the housing assembly about the longitudinal axis relative to the adapter element, the position of the motor shaft can be selected along a funnel-shaped surface.

[0019] In one embodiment, the gearbox housing has a first attachment section and the adapter element has a second attachment section. The first and second attachment sections can be connected to each other in different positions, rotated relative to each other about their longitudinal axis, to connect the housing assembly to the adapter element. In the pre-assembled state, the housing assembly and the adapter element are separate. To connect the housing assembly to the adapter element, the first attachment section of the housing assembly and the second attachment section of the adapter element are connected to each other. This connection can be made in different positions, rotated relative to each other about their longitudinal axis, thus allowing the desired angular position of the housing assembly relative to the adapter element to be set.

[0020] The first and second attachment sections can be shaped such that pre-positioning of the housing assembly on the adapter element is possible by attaching them together. For example, it is conceivable and possible that the first and second attachment sections, when attached, can be rotated relative to each other about their longitudinal axis to adjust the angular position of the housing assembly relative to the adapter element. By attaching the sections together, the housing assembly and the adapter element are thus pre-positioned relative to each other and can then be aligned by rotating the attachment sections.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first attachment section and / or the second attachment section are cylindrically shaped around the longitudinal axis. For example, one of the attachment sections can have the shape of a cylindrical pin onto which the other attachment section can be placed to pre-position the attachment sections relative to each other.

[0022] In one embodiment, one of the first attachment section and the second attachment section has an opening into which the other of the first attachment section and the second attachment section can be inserted to connect the housing assembly to the adapter element.

[0023] For example, the first and second attachment sections are shaped in such a complementary way that they can be attached to each other and rotated relative to each other in this attached position. For example, one of the attachment sections can be shaped like a cylindrical pin and the other like a hollow cylinder, so that one attachment section can be inserted into the other.

[0024] It is possible that the first and second attachment sections, when joined, can be rotated relative to each other to adjust the orientation of the housing assembly relative to the adapter element. For this purpose, at least one of the attachment sections can, for example, have a rotationally symmetrical shape, such as a cylindrical or hollow cylindrical shape, so that, when joined, the attachment sections can be rotated relative to each other.

[0025] However, this is not mandatory. It is also conceivable and possible that the first and second attachment sections can be joined in different positions rotated relative to each other about their longitudinal axis, but that once the attachment sections are joined, they cannot be rotated. For example, the first and second attachment sections can each have a toothed section or a differently shaped positive-locking section, whereby the attachment sections engage in such a way that they are fixed against rotation relative to each other. The attachment sections can thus be connected in different positions. However, once the attachment sections have been joined, they can no longer be rotated relative to each other.

[0026] In the assembled position, the first and second mounting sections are preferably firmly and inseparably connected to each other in such a way that they cannot detach from one another during operation of the door drive device (under operational loads). The mounting sections are thus, in particular, rotationally fixed to one another, so that the motor is held in a defined position relative to the adapter element by the housing assembly and is fixed to an associated vehicle assembly, namely the vehicle door or the vehicle body, via the adapter element.

[0027] In particular, the first attachment section and the second attachment section can be connected to each other in the assembled position by material interlocking or form interlocking.

[0028] A material-bonded connection can be created, for example, by a weld or an adhesive bond. Such a material-bonded connection fixes the first and second attachment sections relative to each other after they have been attached, so that the attachment sections, and thus the housing assembly and the adapter element, are firmly and permanently connected.

[0029] A welded joint can be produced, for example, by laser transmission welding, ultrasonic welding, friction welding or another welding process.

[0030] A positive locking connection can be achieved, for example, via a snap-fit ​​connection or a clip connection, whereby the attachment sections are fixed axially along the longitudinal axis and also rotationally fixed around the longitudinal axis relative to each other.

[0031] In other designs, it is also possible to fix the attachment sections to each other, for example via a screw connection, and thus connect them in a position-secure manner.

[0032] In one embodiment, the first attachment section and the second attachment section can be connected to each other in positions that are continuously adjacent to each other around the longitudinal axis or in discrete positions that are angularly spaced from each other around the longitudinal axis.

[0033] If the first and second attachment sections can be connected to each other in positions that are continuously linked around the longitudinal axis, then the first and second attachment sections can be connected to each other in any angular position, at least within a predetermined angular range. For this purpose, the first and / or the second attachment section can be rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis, for example, by a cylindrical section on one side and a hollow cylindrical section on the other, so that the attachment sections can be inserted into one another and continuously rotated relative to each other in the connected position. Thus, at least within a predetermined angular range, the housing assembly and the adapter element can be connected to each other in any angular position.

[0034] If, on the other hand, the first and second insertion sections can be connected to each other in discrete positions spaced angularly relative to each other about their longitudinal axis, then several discrete positions, spaced angularly relative to each other, are defined in which the insertion sections can be connected. For example, if each insertion section has a toothed section, then the toothed sections can only be connected to each other in discrete positions spaced apart by one tooth width. Such discrete positions can also be defined by other types of positive locking elements, for example, a ribbed structure on one insertion section in combination with a complementary groove arrangement on the other insertion section.

[0035] It may also be possible to design the housing assembly so that it can only be connected to the adapter element in one discrete position. Different adapter elements, specific to different vehicles, may be provided, while the housing assembly itself is universal for all vehicles and can therefore be connected to the different adapter elements in the same way. The angular position of the housing assembly on the different adapter elements may vary, but the housing assembly can only be connected to each adapter element in one (single) discrete angular position.

[0036] In one embodiment, the assembly includes a spindle nut element for moving the push rod. In the assembled position, the spindle nut element is threaded to the spindle such that rotating the spindle allows the spindle nut element to be moved along its longitudinal axis relative to the spindle. For assembly, the spindle nut element is positioned on the spindle before, during, or after connecting the housing assembly to the adapter element, thus creating a threaded connection with the spindle. The spindle has an external thread and engages with a threaded opening of the spindle nut element such that, in the operational, assembled position, rotating the spindle causes the spindle nut element to be moved along its longitudinal axis due to the threaded connection.

[0037] In one embodiment, the push rod is pivotally connected to the spindle nut element in the assembled position. In particular, the push rod can be pivotally connected to the spindle nut element about a pivot axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, so that the position of the push rod can be adjusted around the longitudinal axis relative to the spindle nut element during operation.

[0038] In one embodiment, the assembly includes a guide rail for guiding the spindle nut element. In one embodiment, the guide rail is formed on the adapter element. In other embodiments, the guide rail is attached to a mounting interface of the adapter element, at least in the assembled position. Regardless of the specific method of connection between the guide rail and the adapter element (either by integral forming with the adapter element or by connection via the mounting interface), the guide rail is fixedly connected to the adapter element. If the adapter element and the guide rail are designed separately, the position of the guide rail relative to the adapter element is defined via the mounting interface such that the guide rail can only be connected to the adapter element in one position.

[0039] The position of the guide rail relative to the adapter element is therefore not adjustable. It follows that, due to the variable adjustability of the housing assembly's position relative to the adapter element, the housing assembly's position relative to the guide rail is also adjustable. However, because the guide rail is connected to the adapter element, this does not necessarily require any special, complex measures for attaching the guide rail to the housing assembly.

[0040] In one embodiment, the housing assembly can be movable around its longitudinal axis relative to the guide rail in the pre-assembled state. In this pre-assembled state, the guide rail can thus already be connected to the adapter element, for example, by forming the guide rail integrally with the adapter element or, if the adapter element and guide rail are manufactured as separate components, by already being connected to the adapter element. In this pre-assembled state, the housing assembly is also movable relative to the guide rail.

[0041] In one embodiment, a component consisting of the housing assembly and the guide rail has a support element which, in the pre-assembled state, is supported on the other component from the housing assembly and guide rail group, allowing movement about its longitudinal axis. The support element is arranged accordingly on the housing assembly or on the guide rail and supported on the other component. The support element can, for example, provide axial support for the guide rail and the housing assembly relative to each other. This support is such that, in the pre-assembled state, the housing assembly is movable about its longitudinal axis relative to the guide rail, at least within a certain angular range.

[0042] In one embodiment, the support element has (at least) one support leg that engages in a slot opening of the other component from the housing assembly and the guide rail group and is movable about its longitudinal axis within the slot opening. The support leg and the slot opening can, for example, each extend along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The support leg engages in the slot opening and thus provides axial support between the housing assembly and the guide rail. The support leg is movable about its longitudinal axis within the slot opening, allowing the position of the housing assembly to be adjusted relative to the guide rail.

[0043] In one embodiment, the housing assembly, in its assembled position, accommodates at least one gear wheel of the gearbox. The housing assembly can, in particular, constitute a gearbox housing for enclosing and / or rotatably mounting components of the gearbox.

[0044] For example, a gear wheel is fixedly connected to the spindle and can be driven by the motor. The gear wheel is, for instance, a spur gear that meshes with a drive worm mounted on the motor shaft, so that driving the drive worm sets the gear wheel into rotation about its longitudinal axis, thus rotating the spindle. Both the gear wheel and the drive worm are preferably enclosed in the housing assembly and, in advantageous embodiments, rotatably mounted within the housing assembly.

[0045] In one embodiment, the housing assembly features a motor interface for connecting the motor to the housing assembly. The motor can be screwed to the housing assembly via this interface, thus securing it firmly. Positioning and aligning the housing assembly relative to the adapter element can be performed before, during, or after connecting the motor to the motor interface.

[0046] In one embodiment, the adapter element has an opening through which the push rod extends in the assembled position. By moving the spindle nut element, to which the push rod is preferably pivotally connected, the push rod can be moved relative to the adapter element and, for example, adjusted between a retracted and an extended position relative to the adapter element. In the retracted position, the end of the push rod furthest from the spindle nut element is close to the adapter element. In the extended position, the end of the push rod furthest from the spindle nut element is, conversely, farther from the adapter element.If the adapter element is connected to the door frame of a vehicle door, the end of the push rod located away from the spindle nut element is connected to the vehicle body, so that the vehicle door can be moved relative to the vehicle body by moving the push rod. The door drive device can preferably be arranged inside the door frame and thus inside the vehicle door, with the push rod extending through the opening in the adapter element and through an inner door panel surrounding the door frame.

[0047] In one embodiment, the adapter element has at least one fastening element for firmly connecting the adapter element to the vehicle door or the vehicle body. Such a fastening element can, for example, be a screw, so that the adapter element can be screwed to the vehicle body or the vehicle door and thus firmly connected to the vehicle body or the vehicle door.

[0048] A door drive device manufactured using an assembly of the type described above comprises: a motor having a motor shaft rotatable about a motor axis; a gearbox having at least one gear wheel; a housing assembly to which the motor is connected; a spindle rotatable about a longitudinal axis; a push rod; and an adapter element for connecting the door drive device to the vehicle door or vehicle body; wherein the housing assembly is connected to the adapter element; wherein the motor is connected to the adapter element via the housing assembly; wherein the motor is operatively connected to the spindle via the gearbox, and the spindle is rotatable about the longitudinal axis by the motor to move the push rod for adjusting the vehicle door. The housing assembly is connected to the adapter element from one of several different positions rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis.

[0049] A method for manufacturing a door drive device using an assembly of the type described above comprises: providing a motor having a motor shaft rotatable about a motor axis; providing a gearbox having at least one gear wheel; providing a housing assembly to which the motor can be connected; providing a spindle rotatable about a longitudinal axis; providing a push rod; and providing an adapter element for connecting the door drive device to the vehicle door or the vehicle body;wherein the housing assembly for mounting the door drive device is connected to the adapter element, such that in a mounted position the motor is connected to the adapter element via the housing assembly, wherein in the mounted position the motor is operatively connected to the spindle via the gearbox and the spindle is rotatable about the longitudinal axis driven by the motor in order to move the push rod for adjusting the vehicle door; wherein connecting the housing assembly to the adapter element comprises: aligning the motor axis relative to the longitudinal axis by connecting the housing assembly to the adapter element in a plurality of different positions rotated about the longitudinal axis relative to each other.

[0050] The advantages and beneficial designs described above for the assembly also apply analogously to the door drive device and the method for manufacturing the door drive device, so reference should be made to the preceding explanations.

[0051] The underlying concept of the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. The figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic view of a vehicle door on a vehicle body; Fig. 2 a view of an embodiment of a door drive device for adjusting the vehicle door relative to the vehicle body, in an extended position of a push rod; Fig. 3 another view of the door drive device; Fig. 4 A view of the door drive device, without a guide rail; Fig. 5 a different view of the order according to Fig. 4 Fig. 6 A view of the door drive device (without the guide rail), in a retracted position of the push rod; Fig. 7 a view of the door drive device, without the push rod, a spindle nut element and a motor; Fig. 8 a different view of the arrangement according to Fig. 7; Fig. 9 a view of a housing assembly of the door drive device together with a spindle; Fig. 10 a different view of the order according to Fig. 9; Fig. 11 a front view of the arrangement according to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10; Fig. 12 a view of an adapter element together with the spindle, the spindle nut element and the push rod; Fig. 13 a separate view of the adapter element; Fig. 14 another view of the adapter element; Fig. 15 a partially enlarged view of the housing assembly together with the guide rail; Fig. 16 a schematic view of an attachment section of the housing assembly and an attachment section of the adapter element; Fig. 17 a schematic view of another embodiment of the attachment sections; Fig. 18 A view of a door drive device with a guide rail, according to another embodiment; and Fig. 19 an enlarged partial sectional view of the door drive device, showing a support element on a housing assembly for supporting the guide rail.

[0052] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a section of a vehicle 1, which has a vehicle body 10 and a vehicle door 11 arranged on the vehicle body 10 so as to pivot about a hinge axis 114.

[0053] The vehicle door 11 is pivotable about the hinge axis 114 relative to the vehicle body 10 in order to close an opening in the vehicle body 10 in a closed position or to open it in an open position, so that a user can enter or exit the vehicle 1. The vehicle door 11 can be, in particular, a front side door or a rear side door.

[0054] The vehicle door 11 has an outer door panel 110 and an inner door panel 113, which together with a door module 111 attached to the inner door panel 113 define a door box that encloses a door interior 112.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, a door drive device 2 is arranged within the vehicle door 11, which is designed for electrically adjusting the vehicle door 11 relative to the vehicle body 10 or at least for electrically assisted, manual adjustment of the vehicle door 11 relative to the vehicle body 10.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the door drive device 2 has a motor 20 implemented by an electric motor and a push rod 21 which can be adjusted by the motor 20 in order to effect an adjusting force between the vehicle door 11 and the vehicle body 10.

[0057] Fig. Figures 2-15 show views of an embodiment of a door drive device 2, which is designed for adjusting a vehicle door 11 relative to a vehicle body 10. The door drive device 2 comprises a motor 20, a push rod 21, an adapter element 22, a guide rail 23, a spindle 24, a gearbox 25, a control device 26 and a housing assembly 28 that implements a gearbox housing.

[0058] The spindle 24 extends longitudinally along a longitudinal axis L and is rotatable about the longitudinal axis L relative to the housing assembly 28. This can be seen, for example, from... Fig. As can be seen in Figure 12, a gear wheel 250 in the form of a spur gear of the transmission 25 is non-rotatably connected to the spindle 24. The gear wheel 250 is schematically connected to the spindle 24. Fig. 12. The drive worm 251, arranged on a motor shaft 200 of the motor 20, is in tooth engagement such that by rotating the motor shaft 200 with the drive worm 251 arranged on it, the gear wheel 250 can be rotated about the longitudinal axis L and thus the spindle 24 can be set into a rotary motion about the longitudinal axis L.

[0059] A spindle nut element 27 is arranged on the spindle 24, comprising a spindle nut section 271 and a sliding section 270. The spindle nut element 27 is guided in the guide rail 23 via the sliding section 270. The spindle nut section 271 forms a threaded opening through which the spindle 24 engages and which engages with an external thread 240 of the spindle 24. The thread engagement is such that when the spindle 24 rotates about its longitudinal axis L, the spindle nut element 27 is adjusted longitudinally along the longitudinal axis L on the spindle 24.

[0060] The push rod 21 is pivotally connected to the spindle nut element 27 at one end 211. At the other end, the push rod 21 is pivotally connected to a connecting element 210, via which the push rod 21 (when the door drive device 2 is arranged on the vehicle door 11) can be connected to the vehicle body 10, so that in the operational state the push rod 21 is supported in a vehicle 1 between the vehicle door 11 on the one hand and the vehicle body 10 on the other, and the vehicle door 11 can be moved relative to the vehicle body 10 by moving the spindle nut element 27 and by correspondingly moving the push rod 21.

[0061] Fig. Figures 2-5 show the door drive device 2 with the push rod 21 in an extended position, in which the spindle nut element 27 is approached by the housing assembly 28 and the push rod 21 is extended accordingly in an adjustment direction V.

[0062] Fig. In contrast, Figure 6 shows the push rod 21 in a retracted position, in which the spindle nut element 27 is removed from the housing assembly 28 in the opposite direction of adjustment V and the push rod 21 is accordingly retracted into the guide rail 23.

[0063] The push rod 21 extends through an opening 220 in the adapter element 22 and can be moved relative to the adapter element 22 by moving the spindle nut element 27.

[0064] The guide rail 23 is, as can be seen from Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 in conjunction with Fig. 13 and Fig. As can be seen on 14, the guide rail 23 is connected to the adapter element 22 at a mounting interface 223. The guide rail 23 can be attached to the adapter element 22 via a mounting bracket 230 (see 14). Fig. 6 and Fig. 7) attached to the adapter element 22, in particular screwed on, so that the guide rail 23 is fixed relative to the adapter element 22.

[0065] In a mounted position, the housing assembly 28 is also attached to the adapter element 22. The housing assembly 28 forms a motor interface 287 to which the motor 20 is attached, for example by screwing the motor 20 to the housing assembly 28.

[0066] The housing assembly 28 encloses the gearbox 25, in particular the drive worm 251 and the gear wheel 250, and rotatably mounts them. The housing assembly 280 includes a drive worm housing 282, within which the drive worm 251 is received. A shaft opening 284 is formed in a housing section 283, into which the motor shaft 200 of the motor 20 engages. A sensor system for detecting the position and / or movement of the motor shaft 200, for example an array of Hall sensors, can also be arranged in the housing section 283.

[0067] The adapter element 22 serves to connect the door drive device 2, in the illustrated embodiment, to the vehicle door 11. For this purpose, fastening elements 221 in the form of screws are arranged on the adapter element 22, by means of which the adapter element 22 can be screwed to the inner door panel 113 on the inside of the door frame enclosed by the vehicle door 11.

[0068] While the door drive device 2 can use identical parts with respect to the housing assembly 28 and the guide rail 23 and other functional components (apart from the adapter element 22) for use in different vehicle models, the adapter element 22 represents a vehicle model-specific component that is adapted for use in a particular vehicle model and thus forms a model-specific interface designed according to the wishes of a vehicle manufacturer for attaching the door drive device 2 in the vehicle, for example on the vehicle door 11 of the specific vehicle model.

[0069] In a pre-assembled state, the housing assembly 28 is separate from the adapter element 22. The housing assembly 28 forms an attachment section 280, which, as can be seen in particular from... Fig. As can be seen from Figures 8-11, it has a hollow cylindrical shape that is concentric to the longitudinal axis L. An opening 281 is formed within the attachment section 280, as can be seen, for example, from Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 is evident.

[0070] For assembly, the housing assembly 28 can be attached to a mounting section 222 of the adapter element 22. As shown from Fig. As can be seen from Figures 12-14, the attachment section 222 is formed as a cylindrical pin on the adapter element 22 and is designed to be complementary to the attachment section 280 of the housing assembly 28, such that the attachment section 280 can be placed on the attachment section 222 and the attachment section 222 can thus engage in the opening 281 within the attachment section 280 of the housing assembly 28.

[0071] By attaching the mounting sections 222, 280 of the adapter element 22 and the housing assembly 28, the adapter element 22 and the housing assembly 28 can be positioned relative to each other for mounting the door drive device 2. Due to the cylindrical shape of the mounting sections 222, 280, the adapter element 22 and the housing assembly 28 can be rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis L after the mounting sections 222, 280 have been attached to each other, in order to align the position of the motor axis M of the motor 20, about which the motor shaft 200 is rotatable, relative to the longitudinal axis L.

[0072] In this way, the position of the motor 20 on the door drive device 2 can be variably adjusted, so that the motor 20, which is connected to the housing assembly 28 via the motor interface 287, can be positioned on the door drive device 2 in different positions rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis L.

[0073] After the motor shaft M is aligned, the mounting sections 222 and 280 are permanently joined together, for example by welding or adhesive bonding. A weld can be produced, for example, by laser transmission welding, ultrasonic welding, or friction welding. In other configurations, it is also possible, for example, to create a screw connection between the mounting sections 222 and 280, thus attaching the housing assembly 28 to the adapter element 22.

[0074] In the assembled, operational position, the adapter element 22 and the housing assembly 28 are firmly connected to each other, in particular rotationally fixed and positionally fixed, so that the position of the motor 20 in particular is also fixed relative to the adapter element 22.

[0075] Because the orientation of the motor shaft M relative to the adapter element 22 can be varied during assembly, cost savings can be achieved, particularly in the manufacturing of the housing assembly 28. Whereas conventionally a separate housing design of the housing assembly 28 was required for each different orientation of the motor shaft M, the interface provided via the attachment sections 222 and 280 allows for variable orientation of the motor 20 relative to the adapter element 22 during assembly, while maintaining a uniform housing design for the housing assembly 28.

[0076] The mounting sections 222 and 280 are each cylindrical with respect to the longitudinal axis L along which the spindle 24 extends and to which the gear wheel 250 is also concentric. By rotating the housing assembly 28, as shown schematically in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the position of the motor axis M, M', M'' is adjusted, whereby the gear engagement between the drive worm 251 and the gear wheel 250 exists equally regardless of the position of the motor axis M, M', M''.

[0077] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2-15, the housing assembly 28 and the adapter element 22 are freely rotatable relative to each other during assembly and can be brought into any continuously successive positions relative to each other in order to align the motor axis M relative to the adapter element 22. Alignment can be achieved over an angle of 360°. In other embodiments, alignment over an angular range of less than 360°, for example less than 180° or less than 90°, is possible.

[0078] In other embodiments, the housing assembly 28 and the adapter element 22 may only be connected to each other in discrete rotational positions. For example, if the attachment sections 222, 280 each have a toothed section, as shown schematically in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the attachment sections 222, 280 can be attached to each other in different positions rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis L, but only in discrete rotational positions which are angularly spaced relative to each other according to the tooth width of the gear sections.

[0079] With this design, the attachment sections 222 and 280 can only be positioned discretely. Once attached, the attachment sections 222 and 280 cannot be freely rotated relative to each other.

[0080] Once attached, the adapter element 22 and the housing assembly 28 are firmly connected to each other, for example by a weld or adhesive bond. In other embodiments, a positive-locking connection, such as a snap-fit ​​connection or a clip connection, can also be used to fix the adapter element 22 and the housing assembly 28 to each other in a rotationally and positionally fixed manner.

[0081] During pre-assembly, the guide rail 23 is connected to the adapter element 22 before, during, or after connecting the housing assembly 28 to the adapter element 22. The guide rail 23 can be connected to the adapter element 22 in exactly one position. Because the rotational position of the housing assembly 28 relative to the adapter element 22 is adjustable, the rotational position of the housing assembly 28 relative to the guide rail 23 is also variable.

[0082] The movement path of the spindle nut element 27 is defined by the guide rail 23. The movement path of the spindle nut element 27 is independent of the rotational position of the housing assembly 28 relative to the adapter element 22.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, a support element 285 is arranged on the housing assembly 28, providing axial support for the guide rail 23 relative to the housing assembly 28. This can be seen in the enlarged view according to... Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the support element 285 forms a support leg 286 that extends in an arc around the longitudinal axis L and engages in an associated slot opening 231 on the guide rail 23. The support leg 286 is movable around the longitudinal axis L in the slot opening 231 relative to the guide rail 23, so that the housing assembly 28 can assume different rotational positions relative to the guide rail 23. The engagement of the support leg 286 in the slot opening 231 provides, in particular, axial support for the guide rail 23 relative to the housing assembly 28 along the longitudinal axis L under load during operation.

[0084] The control unit 26 serves to control the door drive device 2 during operation. For example, the control unit 26, which may include electronics for this purpose, can process sensor signals to detect motor movement and motor position, and thus to detect the position or movement of the push rod 21.

[0085] Fig. 18 and Fig. Figure 19 shows a further embodiment in which, in modification of the embodiment according to Fig. 15, a support element 288 is firmly connected to the housing assembly 28. The support element 288 is, for example, designed as a molded plastic part and can therefore be manufactured cost-effectively. The support element 288 is firmly connected to the housing assembly 28 by being permanently attached to the gearbox housing 28, for example, by a welded connection, such as one produced by laser transmission welding and / or ultrasonic welding.

[0086] As can be seen from the enlarged partial section view according to Fig. As can be seen in Figure 19, the support element 288 extends in an arc shape in the area of ​​the upper wall of the guide rail 23. On an inner side of the support element 288 facing the guide rail 23, for example, arc-shaped support legs 289 are formed in the form of inwardly projecting ribs, each of which engages in an associated engagement slot 231 on the guide rail 23.

[0087] The support element 288 is analogous to the embodiment shown in the illustration. Fig. 15, the guide rail 23 is thus supported on the gearbox housing 28, whereby the housing assembly 28 can assume different rotational positions relative to the guide rail 23 and the housing assembly 28 can thus be adjusted in its angular position (about the longitudinal axis L) relative to the adapter element 22 of the guide rail 23 during assembly.

[0088] The underlying idea of ​​the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but can also be realized in other ways.

[0089] In principle, a door drive device can be located on the vehicle door or the vehicle body. The push rod is supported on the other assembly in each case, so that moving the push rod creates a relative movement between the vehicle door and the vehicle body.

[0090] The adapter element may have a different shape than shown and is generally designed and built specifically for a particular vehicle model. Reference symbol list 1 vehicle 10 Vehicle body 11 Vehicle door 110 Door outer panel 111 Door module 112 Door interior 113 Door inner panel 114 Hinge axis 2 Door drive device 20 engine 200 motor shaft 21 Push rod 210 Connecting element 211 End 22 Adapter element 220 Opening 221 Fasteners 222 Approach section 223 Mounting interface 23 Guide rail 230 mounting brackets 231 Slot opening 24 spindle 240 threads 25 gearboxes 250 gear wheel 251 Drive screw 26 Control unit 27 Spindle nut element 270 Gliding section 271 Spindle nut section 28 Housing assembly 280 Approach section 281 Opening 282 Drive worm housing 283 Housing section 284 Shaft opening 285 Support element 286 Leg element 287 Motor interface L Longitudinal axis M motor axle M', M'' Rotated position of the motor axis V Adjustment direction

Claims

[1] Assembly for manufacturing a door drive device (2) for adjusting a vehicle door (11) relative to a vehicle body (10), with a motor (20) having a motor shaft (200) rotatable about a motor axis (M), a transmission (25) which has at least one gear wheel (250), a housing assembly (28) to which the motor (20) can be connected, a spindle (24) rotatable about a longitudinal axis (L), a push rod (21) and an adapter element (22) for connecting the door drive device (2) to the vehicle door (11) or the vehicle body (10), wherein the housing assembly (28) can be connected to the adapter element (22) for mounting the door drive device (2), wherein in a mounted position the motor (20) is connected to the adapter element (22) via the housing assembly (28), wherein in the assembled position the motor (20) is operatively connected to the spindle (24) via the gearbox (25) and the spindle (24) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (L) driven by the motor (20) in order to move the push rod (21) to adjust the vehicle door (11), characterized by , that in a pre-assembly state the housing assembly (28) can be connected to the adapter element (22) in different positions rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis (L). [2] Assembly according to claim 1, characterized by , that the motor axis (M) is not parallel to the longitudinal axis (L). [3] Assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the motor axis (M) is skew to the longitudinal axis (L). [4] Assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the motor axis (M) extends along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L). [5] Assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the gearbox housing (28) has a first attachment section (280) and the adapter element (22) has a second attachment section (222), wherein the first attachment section (280) and the second attachment section (22) can be attached to each other in different positions rotated about the longitudinal axis (L) in order to connect the housing assembly (28) to the adapter element (22). [6] Assembly according to claim 5, characterized by , that the first attachment section (280) and / or the second attachment section (22) are cylindrically shaped around the longitudinal axis (L). [7] Assembly according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by , that one of the first attachment section (280) and the second attachment section (222) has an opening (281) into which the other of the first attachment section (280) and the second attachment section (222) can be inserted to connect the housing assembly (28) to the adapter element (22). [8] Assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by, that in the assembled position the first attachment section (280) and the second attachment section (222) are firmly connected to each other. [9] Assembly according to claim 8, characterized by , that in the assembled position the first attachment section (280) and the second attachment section (222) are connected to each other by material interlocking or form interlocking. [10] Assembly according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by , that in the assembled position the first attachment section (280) and the second attachment section (222) are materially connected to each other via a welded joint or an adhesive joint. [11] Assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 10, characterized by , that the first insertion section (280) and the second insertion section (222) can be connected to each other in positions continuously connected around the longitudinal axis (L) or in discrete positions spaced at an angle to each other around the longitudinal axis (L). [12] Assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by a spindle nut element (27) for moving the push rod (21), wherein the spindle nut element (27) in the assembled position is threaded in connection with the spindle (24) such that by rotating the spindle (24) the spindle nut element (27) can be moved along the longitudinal axis (L) relative to the spindle (24). [13] Assembly according to claim 12, characterized by , that the push rod (21) is pivotally connected to the spindle nut element (27) in the assembled position. [14] Assembly according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by a guide rail (23) for guiding the spindle nut element (27), wherein the guide rail (23) is formed on the adapter element (22) or at least is attached in the mounted position to a fastening interface (223) of the adapter element (22). [15] Assembly according to claim 14, characterized by, that the housing assembly (28) is movable about the longitudinal axis (L) relative to the guide rail (23) in the pre-assembly state. [16] Assembly according to claim 15, characterized by , that a component consisting of the housing assembly (28) and the guide rail (23) has a support element (285) which, in the pre-assembly state, is supported on the other component consisting of the housing assembly (28) and the guide rail (23) in a manner movable about the longitudinal axis (L). [17] Assembly according to claim 16, characterized by , that the support element (285) has a support leg (286) which engages in a slot opening (231) of the other assembly from the group of housing assembly (28) and guide rail (23) and is movable in the slot opening (231) about the longitudinal axis (L). [18] Assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the housing assembly (28) in the assembled position accommodates at least one gear wheel (250) of the gearbox (25). [19] Assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the housing assembly (28) has a motor interface (287) for connecting the motor (20) to the housing assembly (28). [20] Assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the adapter element (22) has an opening (220) through which the push rod (21) extends in the assembled position. [21] Assembly according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the adapter element (22) has at least one fastening element (221) for firmly connecting the adapter element (22) to the vehicle door (11) or the vehicle body (10). [22] Door drive device (2), manufactured using an assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the door drive device (2) comprises: a motor (20) having a motor shaft (200) rotatable about a motor axis (M), a transmission (25) comprising at least one gear wheel (250), a housing assembly (28) to which the motor (20) is connected, a spindle (24) rotatable about a longitudinal axis (L), a push rod (21) and an adapter element (22) for connecting the door drive device (2) to the vehicle door (11) or the vehicle body (10), wherein the housing assembly (28) is connected to the adapter element (22), wherein the motor (20) is connected to the adapter element (22) via the housing assembly (28), wherein the motor (20) is operatively connected to the spindle (24) via the gearbox (25) and the spindle (24) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (L) driven by the motor (20) in order to move the push rod (21) to adjust the vehicle door (11), characterized by , that the housing assembly (28) is connected to the adapter element (22) in one of several different positions rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis (L). [23] Method for manufacturing a door drive device (2) using an assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the method comprises: Providing a motor (20) having a motor shaft (200) rotatable about a motor axis (M), Providing a transmission (25) comprising at least one gear wheel (250), Providing a housing assembly (28) to which the motor (20) can be connected, Providing a spindle (24) rotatable about a longitudinal axis (L), Providing a push rod (21) and Providing an adapter element (22) for connecting the door drive device (2) to the vehicle door (11) or the vehicle body (10), wherein the housing assembly (28) for mounting the door drive device (2) is connected to the adapter element (22), such that in a mounted position the motor (20) is connected to the adapter element (22) via the housing assembly (28), wherein in the mounted position the motor (20) is operatively connected to the spindle (24) via the gearbox (25) and the spindle (24) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (L) driven by the motor (20) in order to move the push rod (21) for adjusting the vehicle door (11), wherein connecting the housing assembly (28) to the adapter element (22) comprises: aligning the motor axis (M) relative to the longitudinal axis (L) by connecting the housing assembly (28) to the adapter element (22) in a plurality of different positions rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis (L).

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