Roof opening device for a motor vehicle and motor vehicle

Abstract

A roof opening device for a motor vehicle with a first and an opposing second side door is disclosed. The device comprises: A roof longitudinal member extending in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, comprising at least one roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and an opposing second longitudinal edge. The roof segment is pivotally hinged to the roof longitudinal member via its first longitudinal edge and can pivot between a closed and an open position. In a first embodiment, the roof longitudinal member is located above and between the first and second side doors of the vehicle, and in a second embodiment, above the second side door. In the first embodiment, the at least one roof segment can rest on the first side door in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge. In the second embodiment, the roof opening device comprises at least one further roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and an opposing second longitudinal edge.The additional roof segment is pivotally hinged to at least one roof segment and can rest on the first side door in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a roof opening device for a motor vehicle and a motor vehicle equipped with the roof opening device.

[0002] Standard concepts for opening and closing a motor vehicle include a left side door hinged to the vehicle body, a hinged right side door laterally opposite the left side door, and a roof system comprising a left roof pillar, a right roof pillar laterally opposite the left roof pillar, and a roof section situated between the left and right roof pillars. The left and right side doors are typically hinged to the vehicle body via a pivot axis that is substantially perpendicular, i.e., substantially parallel to the Z-axis of the motor vehicle. The roof section may include an opening roof opening area and either an opaque roof segment or a transparent roof window for opening and closing the opening area. The roof window or roof segment may pivot around a point in the roof area, typically in a transverse direction of the motor vehicle.The pivot axis, running parallel to the Y-axis, can be pivoted to open and close the roof opening area. Alternatively, the roof window or roof segment can typically be moved out of the roof opening area in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, i.e., parallel to the X-axis, or in a transverse direction of the vehicle, i.e., parallel to the Y-axis (as disclosed in DE 199 36 538 A1). These standard concepts have the disadvantage that a user must perform an awkward movement (including kneeling and bending) to get under the roof rail and onto a vehicle seat located inside the (closed) side door.

[0003] In the realm of upper-class or luxury vehicles, such as the classic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, the Tesla Model X, or the Lucid Model HiPhi X, the concept of so-called gullwing doors is well-known. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL and the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG feature two gullwing doors (one left and one right) instead of two side doors (one left and one right). Similarly, the Tesla Model X and the Lucid Model HiPhi X each have two gullwing doors (one left and one right) instead of two rear side doors (left and right), while the front side doors (left and right) are, according to a standard design, hinged to the vehicle body via a pivot axis that is essentially perpendicular, i.e., essentially parallel to the vehicle's Z-axis. The gullwing doors themselves are mounted on a pivot axis that is essentially longitudinal, i.e.,The gullwing door is hinged to the roof longitudinal member running parallel to the X-axis of the vehicle in the roof area and is thus pivotable about a pivot axis running essentially longitudinally in the roof area for opening and closing. Such a gullwing door has not only a lateral section, i.e., located essentially in the XZ plane of the vehicle, which comprises the area of ​​a standard side door, but also an upper section, i.e., located essentially in the XY plane of the vehicle, which forms part of the roof or roof area. Thus, in the presence of gullwing doors, the roof area does not have a roof rail in the area of ​​the gullwing doors.The concept of gullwing doors has the disadvantage that a user has to perform a less, but still cumbersome, movement (involving at least bending down) to get under the open gullwing door to a vehicle seat located inside the (closed) gullwing door.

[0004] In the realm of luxury vehicles, particularly in the Rolls-Royce Model 103 EX Concept, the concept of a monolithic, pivoting roof segment is also known. This roof segment is articulated to a pivot axis extending substantially longitudinally, i.e., parallel to the X-axis, of the vehicle and located in the region of a door pillar above a side door, for opening and closing the roof. In its closed position, the monolithic, pivoting roof segment extends substantially in the XY plane of the vehicle across the entire width of the roof to and over an opposite side door. In its open position, it extends obliquely and substantially vertically upwards from the roof pillar to which it is articulated. The term "monolithic" is used here to clarify that the roof segment is not actually a segment of the roof (e.g.,which only extends over part of the roof's width and length), but essentially the entire roof (e.g., extending over the full width and length of the roof in the area of ​​the side doors).

[0005] When tilted, the monolithic roof segment is positioned at an angle between the XY and XZ planes; and when essentially vertical, it is positioned essentially in the XZ plane of the vehicle. The monolithic pivoting roof segment allows a user to comfortably enter the vehicle standing over the door sill of the opposite side door and then take a seat. The disadvantages of the monolithic pivoting roof segment are that it is very large and very heavy, requiring a very large force or torque to move it from the closed to the open position, and that it protrudes very far upwards in the open position.

[0006] The invention relates to a roof concept or roof opening device that enables a user to enter the vehicle comfortably and standing upright, in particular without bending, over a door threshold, even when a motor vehicle is equipped with cost-effective and mechanically simple side doors according to a standard concept, wherein the roof concept or roof opening device is simultaneously not monolithic, but rather designed with comparatively compact, less heavy roof segments.

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide a roof concept or roof opening device that enables a user to enter a motor vehicle equipped with standard side doors comfortably and while standing, which is comparatively inexpensive (i.e., compared to the monolithic, pivoting roof segment) and which only has comparatively compact, less heavy roof segments.

[0008] The invention is defined by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments and embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, a roof opening device is provided for a motor vehicle, wherein the motor vehicle has a first side door and a second side door laterally opposite the first side door. The roof opening device comprises the following: a roof longitudinal member extending in a longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle, at least one roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge, wherein the at least one roof segment is pivotably hinged to the roof longitudinal member via its first longitudinal edge and is pivotable between a closed position in which the at least one roof segment covers a first roof opening section, and an open position in which the at least one roof segment exposes the first roof opening section.The first roof opening section is located in an area between the roof longitudinal member and the first side door of the motor vehicle. According to the invention, the roof longitudinal member is designed and configured to be located, in a first embodiment, in an area above and between the first and second side doors of the motor vehicle, and, in a second embodiment, in an area substantially above the second side door of the motor vehicle. The location "above and between the first and second side doors" for the roof longitudinal member means that, in a vertical direction (Z-direction) of the motor vehicle, the roof longitudinal member is located in an area above the first and second side doors, and in a transverse direction (Y-direction) of the motor vehicle, in an area between the first and second side doors.- Here, the location "above the second side door" for the roof longitudinal beam means that the roof longitudinal beam is arranged in the vertical direction in an area above the second side door.

[0010] According to the first variant, the at least one roof segment is designed to rest on the first side door of the motor vehicle in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge. According to the second variant, the roof opening device comprises at least one further roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge. The at least one further roof segment is pivotally connected via its first longitudinal edge and via the second longitudinal edge of the at least one further roof segment, in particular via an intermediate hinge to which at least one roof segment is pivotally attached, and the at least one further roof segment is designed to rest on the first side door of the motor vehicle in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge.

[0011] An advantage of the first and second variants is that a first roof rail associated with the first side door does not need to be present in the area above the first side door, or that a first roof rail associated with the first side door can be interrupted in its course along an edge of the roof opening device in the area above the first side door. Consequently, in the area of ​​the upper edge of the first side door and / or in the area above it, when the roof segment, which can rest on the first side door in its closed position, is moved into its open position, the first door opening associated with the first side door is enlarged. Also as a result, a user can enter the vehicle from the first side while standing or walking upright, which represents a considerable convenience.For the first variant, the same applies to the second side of the vehicle opposite, where a second door opening associated with the second side door is enlarged to allow a user to enter the vehicle from a second side while standing or walking upright.

[0012] In some embodiments, the at least one roof segment is pivotally connected to the roof longitudinal member via a pivot joint. In other embodiments, the further roof segment is pivotally connected to the at least one roof segment via an intermediate joint.

[0013] In one embodiment of the first variant, in which the roof longitudinal member is provided and designed to be arranged and designed above and between the first and the second side door of the motor vehicle, the roof opening device is designed to cover a second roof opening section which is arranged in an area between the roof longitudinal member and the second side door of the motor vehicle.

[0014] In an alternative embodiment of the first variant, in which the roof longitudinal member is designed and configured to be positioned above and between the first and second side doors of the motor vehicle, the roof opening device comprises at least one second roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge. The second roof segment is pivotally connected to the roof longitudinal member via its first longitudinal edge and is pivotable between a closed position, in which the second roof segment covers a second roof opening section, and an open position, in which the second roof segment releases the second roof opening section. The second roof segment is further configured to rest on the second side door of the motor vehicle in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge.The second roof opening section is located between the roof longitudinal beam and the second side door of the motor vehicle.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second roof segment is pivotally attached to the roof longitudinal beam via a pivot joint.

[0016] In a further embodiment of the first variant, the roof longitudinal beam is further arranged and designed to be positioned in an area above and centrally between the first side door and the second side door.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment of the first variant, the roof longitudinal beam is arranged and designed to be located in an area above, but not centrally between, the first side door and the second side door.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the first variant, the roof opening device comprises at least one third roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge. The at least one roof segment is not designed to rest on the first side door of the vehicle in the region of its second longitudinal edge, but rather the third roof segment is pivotally connected to the at least one roof segment via its first longitudinal edge, in particular via an intermediate hinge, and via the second longitudinal edge of the first roof segment. Furthermore, the third roof segment is designed to rest on the first side door of the vehicle in the region of its second longitudinal edge.

[0019] In a further embodiment of the first variant, the roof opening device comprises at least a fourth roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge. The second roof segment is not designed to rest on the second side door of the vehicle in the region of its second longitudinal edge, but rather the fourth roof segment is pivotally connected to the second roof segment via its first longitudinal edge, in particular via an intermediate hinge, and via the second longitudinal edge of the second roof segment. Furthermore, the fourth roof segment is designed to rest on the second side door of the vehicle in the region of its second longitudinal edge. In one embodiment, the fourth roof segment can be pivotally connected to the second roof segment via its first longitudinal edge and an intermediate hinge.This embodiment (with the third and fourth roof segment) represents a particularly preferred embodiment according to the first variant.

[0020] In a further embodiment of the first variant, the roof opening device comprises at least one fifth roof segment having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge. The fifth roof segment is arranged between the at least one roof segment and the third roof segment, or between the second roof segment and the fourth roof segment. When the fifth roof segment is arranged between the at least one roof segment and the third roof segment, it is pivotally connected to the at least one roof segment via its first longitudinal edge and its second longitudinal edge, and it is pivotally connected to the third roof segment via its second longitudinal edge and its first longitudinal edge.If the fifth roof segment is arranged between the second and fourth roof segments, the fifth roof segment is pivotally connected to the second roof segment via its first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge of the second roof segment, and is pivotally connected to the fourth roof segment via its second longitudinal edge and the first longitudinal edge of the fourth roof segment. In one embodiment, the fifth roof segment can also be pivotally connected to an adjacent roof segment via an intermediate hinge.

[0021] In one embodiment of the second variant, in which the roof longitudinal member is arranged substantially above the second side door of the motor vehicle, the roof opening device comprises at least one third roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge. The third roof segment is arranged between the at least one roof segment and the at least one further roof segment. Furthermore, the third roof segment is pivotally connected to the at least one roof segment via its first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge of the at least one first roof segment, and is pivotally connected to the at least one further roof segment via its second longitudinal edge and the first longitudinal edge of the at least one further roof segment.

[0022] In a further embodiment of the second variant, the roof opening device comprises at least a fourth roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge. The fourth roof segment is arranged between the third roof segment and the at least one further roof segment. Furthermore, the fourth roof segment is pivotally connected to the third roof segment via its first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge of the third roof segment, and is pivotally connected to the at least one further roof segment via its second longitudinal edge and the first longitudinal edge of the at least one further roof segment. This embodiment (with the third and fourth roof segments) represents a particularly preferred embodiment according to the second variant.

[0023] In an embodiment according to the first aspect, a first roof rail associated with the first side door is not formed in the area above the first side door of the motor vehicle, or a first roof rail associated with the first side door is interrupted in its course along an edge of the roof opening device in the area above the first side door of the motor vehicle. As a result, in the area of ​​the upper edge of the first side door and / or in the area above it, when the roof segment, which in its closed position can rest on the first side door, is moved into its open position, a door opening associated with the first side door is enlarged.

[0024] In an embodiment according to the first aspect, a second roof rail associated with the second side door is either not formed in the area above the second side door of the motor vehicle or a second roof rail associated with the second side door is interrupted in its course along an edge of the roof opening device in the area above the second side door of the motor vehicle. As a result, in the area of ​​the upper edge of the second side door and / or in the area above it, when the roof segment, which in its closed position can rest on the second side door, is moved into its open position, a door opening associated with the second side door is enlarged.

[0025] In an embodiment according to the first aspect, when the at least one roof segment and any further roof segments directly or indirectly hinged to it are moved into their respective positions corresponding to the opening position of the at least one roof segment, the at least one roof segment and the further roof segments directly or indirectly hinged to it are arranged in an area above the roof opening device. In a corresponding further embodiment, when the second roof segment and any further roof segments directly or indirectly hinged to it are moved into their respective positions corresponding to the opening position of the at least one roof segment, the second roof segment and the further roof segments directly or indirectly hinged to it are arranged in an area above the roof opening device.

[0026] In an embodiment according to the first aspect, the at least one roof segment and, optionally, further roof segments directly or indirectly articulated to it, can be moved from their positions corresponding to the closed position of the at least one roof segment to their positions corresponding to the open position of the at least one roof segment and back again by means of a first drive motor and / or, in particular, by means of a drive device. The drive device can comprise a drive motor, a rotating shaft attached to the drive motor, and at least one cable. The cable can be wound onto or unwound from the rotating shaft.In a further embodiment, the second roof segment and any further roof segments directly or indirectly connected to it can be moved from their positions corresponding to the closed position of the second roof segment to their positions corresponding to the open position of the second roof segment by means of a second drive unit. The second drive unit can comprise a second drive motor, a second rotating shaft attached to the second drive motor, and at least one second cable. The second cable can be wound onto or unwound from the second rotating shaft.

[0027] In an embodiment according to the first aspect, a pivot joint is arranged between the at least one roof segment and the roof longitudinal member and / or between the second roof segment and the roof longitudinal member, and an intermediate joint is arranged between two adjacent roof segments, i.e., an adjacent first roof segment and an adjacent second roof segment. The pivot joint and / or the intermediate joint have a joint axis in the region of a neutral fiber. Furthermore, the pivot joint and / or the intermediate joint comprise a first joint part and a second joint part. In the case of a pivot joint, the first joint part is associated with and integrated into the roof longitudinal member, and the second joint part is associated with and integrated into the roof segment hinged to the roof longitudinal member.In the case of an intermediate hinge, the first hinge component is assigned to and integrated within the adjacent first roof segment, and the second hinge component is assigned to and integrated within the adjacent second roof segment. On one side of the neutral fiber, an open area is formed in the immediate vicinity of the hinge axis. This open area is bounded by a first stop surface of the first hinge component and a second stop surface of the second hinge component, which is articulated to the first hinge component via the hinge axis. The first stop surface and the second stop surface are arranged relative to each other at a predetermined angle, measured along a circumference around the hinge axis. The open area allows the second hinge component to pivot relative to the first hinge component by the predetermined angle in the direction of the first hinge component. The predetermined angle is in a range from greater than zero to less than or equal to 180°.On a second side of the neutral fiber, in the immediate vicinity of the joint axis, a third stop surface of the first joint part and a fourth stop surface of the second joint part are formed. The third and fourth stop surfaces are positively interlocked with each other.

[0028] The third and fourth stop surfaces touch when the second hinge part is in the closed position relative to the first hinge part. The third and fourth stop surfaces are pivoted relative to each other at a specific angle when the second hinge part is in the open position relative to the first hinge part.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the invention, a motor vehicle is provided which comprises a first side door, a second side door and a roof opening device according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0030] Further advantages, features, and details will become apparent from the following description, in which – possibly with reference to the drawings – at least one embodiment is described in detail. Identical, similar, and / or functionally equivalent parts are identified by the same reference numerals.

[0031] They show: Fig. 1 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a first embodiment according to the first variant, with at least one roof segment; Fig. 2 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a second embodiment according to the first variant, with the at least one roof segment; Fig. 3 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a third embodiment according to the first variant, with the at least one roof segment and the second roof segment; Fig. 4 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a fourth embodiment according to the first variant, comprising the at least one roof segment, a third roof segment articulated thereto, and the second roof segment; Fig. 5 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a fifth embodiment according to the first variant, with the at least one roof segment and the second roof segment; Fig. 6 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a sixth embodiment according to the first variant, comprising the at least one roof segment and a third roof segment articulated thereto, as well as the second roof segment and a fourth roof segment articulated thereto; Fig. 7 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a seventh embodiment according to the second variant, with at least one roof segment and at least one further roof segment articulated thereto; Fig. 8 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in an eighth embodiment according to the second variant, comprising at least one roof segment, a third roof segment articulated thereto, and at least one further roof segment articulated thereto; Fig. 9 a roof opening device, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a ninth embodiment according to the second variant, comprising at least one roof segment, a third roof segment articulated thereto, a fourth roof segment articulated thereto and at least one further roof segment articulated thereto; Fig. 10a a sectional drawing of a first embodiment of a pivot or intermediate joint with a first joint part and a second joint part, cut along a neutral fiber and perpendicular to a pivot or intermediate joint axis; Fig. 10b a sectional drawing of a second embodiment of a pivot or intermediate joint with a first joint part and a second joint part, cut along the neutral fiber and perpendicular to the pivot or intermediate joint axis; Fig. 10c a sectional drawing of a third embodiment of a pivot or intermediate joint with a first joint part and a second joint part, cut along the neutral fiber and perpendicular to the pivot or intermediate joint axis; Fig. 11a a lateral oblique view of a motor vehicle with a roof opening device in the ninth embodiment according to the Fig. 9, furthermore, a drive device for moving the roof opening device from its closed position to its open position and back is indicated; and Fig. 11b a front oblique view of the motor vehicle with the roof opening device in the ninth embodiment according to the Fig. 9, furthermore, the drive device for moving the roof opening device from its closed position to its open position and back is indicated.

[0032] Although the invention has been illustrated and explained in detail above by means of preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited by the embodiments disclosed above, and other variations can be derived by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of protection of the invention. It is therefore clear that a multitude of possible variations exist. It is also clear that the embodiments mentioned as examples are indeed only examples and are not to be understood in any way as limiting, for example, the scope of protection, the possible applications, or the configuration of the invention.Rather, the preceding description and the subsequent description of the figures enable the person skilled in the art to implement the exemplary embodiments in concrete terms, whereby the person skilled in the art, with knowledge of the disclosed inventive concept, can make various changes, for example with regard to the function or the arrangement of individual elements mentioned in an exemplary embodiment, without leaving the scope of protection defined by the claims and their legal equivalents, such as further explanations in the description.

[0033] Fig. Figure 1 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a first embodiment according to the first variant, with at least one roof segment 22. Fig. Figure 2 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a second embodiment according to the first variant, with the at least one roof segment 22.

[0034] According to the first aspect of the invention, the roof opening device 10 is provided for a motor vehicle 12 (such as in the Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b), wherein the motor vehicle 12 has a first side door 14 and a second side door 16 laterally opposite the first side door 14. The first side door 14 includes a first side window 15 that can extend upwards from the first side door 14, and the second side door 16 includes a second side window 17 that can extend upwards from the second side door 16 (as shown in the Fig. (1 to 9 shown). Here, the term "upwards" refers to a vertical direction 112 or the Z-direction of the motor vehicle. Typically, the first and second side windows 15 and 17 in the first and second side doors 14 and 16 can also be fully or at least partially recessed (which is not shown in the figures). For the purposes of this description, it is assumed that the first and second side doors 14 and 16 occupy the space that the side doors 14 and 16 would occupy with their side windows 15 and 17 fully extended upwards. The first side door 14 and the first side window 15 can be the left side door and left side window or the right side door and right side window of the motor vehicle. The first side door 14, the second side door 16, and the roof opening device 10 together enclose an interior space 13 of the vehicle 12.

[0035] The roof opening device 10 comprises a roof longitudinal beam 18 which extends in a longitudinal direction 108 (see Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b) of the motor vehicle 12 extends, and at least one roof segment 22. The at least one roof segment 22 has a first longitudinal edge 24 and a second longitudinal edge 26 laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge 24. Herein, the term "laterally" refers to a transverse direction 108 or the Y-direction of the motor vehicle.

[0036] The at least one roof segment 22 is pivotally hinged to the roof longitudinal beam 18 via its first longitudinal edge 24. It is pivotable between a closed position 28, in which the at least one roof segment 22 covers a first roof opening section 20, and an open position 30, in which the at least one roof segment 22 releases the first roof opening section 20. The first roof opening section 20 is arranged in an area between the roof longitudinal beam 18 and the first side door 14, as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is indicated.

[0037] The roof longitudinal member 18 is designed and configured in a first variant to be positioned in an area above and between the first and second side doors 14 and 16. The following refer to this first variant. Fig. 1 to 6. Here, the location “above and between the first and second side doors” for the roof longitudinal beam 18 means that the roof longitudinal beam 18 is arranged in the vertical direction 112 in an area above the first and second side doors and in the transverse direction 110 in an area between the first and second side doors.

[0038] Embodiments of the first variant are described below with reference to the Fig. 1 to 6 described.

[0039] The roof longitudinal member 18 is designed and configured in a second variant to be positioned in an area essentially above the second side door 16. The following refer to this second variant. Fig. 7 to 9. Here, the location "above the second side door" for the roof longitudinal beam 18 means that the roof longitudinal beam 18 is arranged in the vertical direction 112 in an area above the second side door. Embodiments of the second variant are described below with reference to the Fig. Described in sections 7 to 9.

[0040] In the in the Fig. In embodiments 1 to 3 shown according to the first variant, the at least one roof segment 22 is designed to rest on the first side door 14 in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge 26.

[0041] In the in the Fig. 1 and Fig. In the embodiments shown in the first variant, the roof opening device 10 is designed to cover a second roof opening section 42, which is arranged in an area between the roof longitudinal member 18 and the second side door 16. Here, the term "between" again refers to the transverse direction 110 or Y-direction of the motor vehicle.

[0042] The first roof opening section 20 can be wider than the second roof opening section 42, as shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 is shown. Alternatively, the first roof opening section 20 can also be narrower than the second roof opening section 42, as shown in the Fig. 2 is shown.

[0043] Fig. Figure 3 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a third embodiment according to the first variant, with the at least one roof segment 22 and the second roof segment 44.

[0044] In the Fig. In the embodiments shown in Figure 3, according to the first variant, the roof opening device 10 comprises at least one second roof segment 44 with a first longitudinal edge 46 and a second longitudinal edge 48 laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge 44. The second roof segment 44 is pivotally connected to the roof longitudinal member 18 via its first longitudinal edge 46 and is pivotable between a closed position 50, in which the second roof segment 44 covers a second roof opening section 42, and an open position 52, in which the second roof segment 44 releases the second roof opening section 42. The second roof segment 44 is further configured to rest on the second side door 16 in the region of its second longitudinal edge 48. The second roof opening section 42 is arranged in a region between the roof longitudinal member 18 and the second side door 16.

[0045] Fig. Figure 4 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a fourth embodiment according to the first variant, with the at least one roof segment 22, a third roof segment 54 articulated thereto and the second roof segment 44.

[0046] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4 according to the first variant, the roof opening device 10 comprises at least one third roof segment 54 with a first longitudinal edge 56 and a second longitudinal edge 58 laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge 56. The at least one roof segment 22 is not designed to rest on the first side door 14 in the region of its second longitudinal edge 26. Rather, the third roof segment 54 is pivotally connected to the at least one roof segment 22 via its first longitudinal edge 56 and via the second longitudinal edge 26 of the at least one roof segment 22, and the third roof segment 54 is designed to rest on the first side door 14 in the region of its second longitudinal edge 58.

[0047] In the in the Fig. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4 according to the first variant, the roof longitudinal member 18 is arranged and configured to be located in an area above, but not centrally between, the first side door 14 and the second side door 16. This is in contrast to the embodiments shown in the Fig. 5 and Fig. In the embodiments shown in Figure 6, the roof longitudinal member 18 is arranged and configured to be positioned in an area above and centrally between the first side door 14 and the second side door 16, as described in more detail below. Here, the location "above the first side door 14 and the second side door 16" for the roof longitudinal member 18 means that it is positioned above the first side door 14 and the second side door 16 in the vertical direction 112 or Z-direction of the vehicle. Here, the location "between the first side door 14 and the second side door 16" for the roof longitudinal member 18 means that it is positioned between the first side door 14 and the second side door 16 in the transverse direction 110 or Y-direction of the vehicle.

[0048] Fig. Figure 5 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a fifth embodiment according to the first variant, with the at least one roof segment 22 and the second roof segment 44. Fig. Figure 6 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a sixth embodiment according to the first variant, with the at least one roof segment 22 and a third roof segment 54 articulated thereto, as well as the second roof segment 44 and a fourth roof segment 60 articulated thereto.

[0049] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in section 5 according to the first variant, the roof opening device 10 comprises, as also in the Fig. 3, the second roof segment 44 with all properties or characteristics already mentioned above with reference to the Fig. 3 are described. The ones in the Fig. The embodiment shown in section 5 represents a particularly preferred embodiment according to the first variant.

[0050] In the in the Fig. 5 and Fig. In the embodiments shown in Figure 6 according to the first variant, the roof longitudinal member 18 is further arranged and configured to be positioned in an area above and centrally between the first side door 14 and the second side door 16. Here, the location "centrally positioned between the first side door 14 and the second side door 16" for the roof longitudinal member 18 means that the roof opening device 10 has a plane of symmetry parallel to the XZ plane of the vehicle. This means that the at least one roof segment 22 and the second roof segment 44, at least in their respective closed positions 28 and 50, respectively, are arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry. This further means that the roof longitudinal member 18 is arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry.Furthermore, at least one roof segment 22 and the second roof segment 44 are also arranged symmetrically to the plane of symmetry in their respective fully opened opening positions 30 and 52.

[0051] Even in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in the first variant, the roof opening device 10 comprises, as also in the Fig. 3, the second roof segment 44 with all properties or characteristics already mentioned above with reference to the Fig. 3 are described. Furthermore, the roof opening device comprises 10, as also described in the Fig. 4, the third roof segment 54 with all properties or characteristics already mentioned above with reference to the Fig. 4 are described.

[0052] Furthermore, the roof opening device comprises 10 in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, according to the first variant, at least one fourth roof segment 60 has a first longitudinal edge 62 and a second longitudinal edge 64 laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge 62. The second roof segment 44 is not designed to rest on the second side door 16 in the region of its second longitudinal edge 48. Rather, the fourth roof segment 60 is pivotally connected to the second roof segment 44 via its first longitudinal edge 62 and via the second longitudinal edge 48 of the second roof segment 44, and the fourth roof segment 44 is designed to rest on the second side door 16 in the region of its second longitudinal edge 48.

[0053] In further development of the in the Fig. 4 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6 according to the first variant, the roof opening device 10 comprises at least one fifth roof segment with a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge. The fifth roof segment is arranged between the at least one roof segment and the third roof segment, or between the second roof segment and the fourth roof segment. When the fifth roof segment is arranged between the at least one roof segment and the third roof segment, it is pivotally connected to the at least one roof segment via its first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge of the at least one roof segment, and it is pivotally connected to the third roof segment via its second longitudinal edge and the first longitudinal edge of the third roof segment.- If the fifth roof segment is arranged between the second roof segment and the fourth roof segment, the fifth roof segment is pivotally hinged to the second roof segment via its first longitudinal edge and via the second longitudinal edge of the second roof segment, and is pivotally hinged to the fourth roof segment via its second longitudinal edge and via the first longitudinal edge of the fourth roof segment.

[0054] Fig. Figure 7 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a seventh embodiment according to the second variant, with at least one roof segment 22 and at least one further roof segment 36 articulated thereto. Fig. Figure 8 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in an eighth embodiment according to the second variant, with the at least one roof segment 22, a third roof segment 54 articulated thereto and the at least one further roof segment 36 articulated thereto. Fig. Figure 9 shows a roof opening device 10, cut in a YZ plane of a motor vehicle, in a ninth embodiment according to the second variant, with the at least one roof segment 22, a third roof segment 54 articulated thereto, a fourth roof segment 60 articulated thereto and the at least one further roof segment 36 articulated thereto.

[0055] In all the Fig. In the embodiments of the second variant shown in Figures 7 to 9, the roof opening device 10 comprises, in addition to the at least one roof segment 22, at least one further roof segment 36 with a first longitudinal edge 38 and a second longitudinal edge 40 laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge 38. Furthermore, in all the embodiments shown in the Fig. In embodiments of the second variant shown in Figures 7 to 9, at least one further roof segment 36 is designed to rest on the first side door 14 in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge 40.

[0056] The in the Fig. The roof opening device 10 shown in Figures 7 to 9 is located between a closed position, in which the roof opening device 10 opens the first roof opening section 20 (in the Fig. (designated 7) is covered, and is pivotable to an opening position in which the roof opening device 10 releases the first roof opening section 20. The first roof opening section 20 is located in an area between the roof longitudinal beam 18 and the first side door 14.

[0057] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the at least one further roof segment 36 is pivotably connected to the at least one roof segment 22 via its first longitudinal edge 38 and via the second longitudinal edge 26 of the at least one further roof segment 36.

[0058] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the roof opening device 10 comprises at least one third roof segment 54 with a first longitudinal edge 56 and a second longitudinal edge 58 laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge 56. The third roof segment 54 is arranged between the at least one roof segment 22 and the at least one further roof segment 36. The third roof segment 54 is pivotally connected to the at least one roof segment 22 via its first longitudinal edge 56 and the second longitudinal edge 26 of the at least one first roof segment 22, and pivotally connected to the at least one further roof segment 36 via its second longitudinal edge 58 and the first longitudinal edge 38 of the at least one further roof segment 36.

[0059] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the roof opening device 10 comprises at least one fourth roof segment 60 with a first longitudinal edge 62 and a second longitudinal edge 64 laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge 62. The fourth roof segment 60 is arranged between the third roof segment 54 and the at least one further roof segment 36. More precisely, the fourth roof segment 60 is pivotally connected to the third roof segment 54 via its first longitudinal edge 62 and the second longitudinal edge 58 of the third roof segment 54, and is pivotally connected to the at least one further roof segment 36 via its second longitudinal edge 64 and the first longitudinal edge 38 of the at least one further roof segment 36. The [details of the] Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 9 represents a particularly preferred embodiment according to the second variant.

[0060] In the in the Fig. In the embodiments of the roof opening device 10 shown in Figures 1 to 9, a first roof beam associated with the first side door 14 is either not formed in the area above the first side door 14 or its course along an edge of the roof opening device 10 is interrupted in the area above the first side door 14. This results in a first door opening associated with the first side door 14 being enlarged in the area of ​​the upper edge of the first side door 14 and / or in the area above it when the roof segment 22, 54 or 26, which can rest on the first side door 14 in its closed position 28, is moved into its open position.

[0061] In the in the Fig. In the embodiments of the roof opening device 10 shown in Figures 1 to 6, a second roof beam associated with the second side door 16 is either not formed in the area above the second side door 16 or its course along an edge of the roof opening device 10 is interrupted in the area above the second side door 16. This results in a second door opening associated with the second side door 16 being enlarged in the area of ​​the upper edge of the second side door 16 and / or in the area above it when the roof segment 22 or 60, which can rest on the second side door 16 in its closed position, is moved into its open position.

[0062] In all the in the Fig. In the embodiments of the roof opening device 10 shown in Figures 1 to 9, when the at least one roof segment 22 and any further roof segments 54, 60 directly or indirectly articulated to it are moved into their positions corresponding to the opening position 30 of the at least one roof segment 22, the at least one roof segment 22 and the further roof segments 54, 60 and 36 directly or indirectly articulated to it are arranged in an area above the roof opening device 10. In all the embodiments shown in the Fig. In the embodiments of the roof opening device 10 shown in Figures 3 to 6, when the second roof segment 44 and any further roof segments 60 directly or indirectly articulated to it are moved into their respective positions corresponding to the opening position of the second roof segment 44, the second roof segment 44 and the further roof segments 60 directly or indirectly articulated to it are arranged in an area above the roof opening device 10.

[0063] Fig. Figure 10a shows a sectional drawing of a first embodiment of a pivot or intermediate joint 80, 82 with a first joint part 76 and a second joint part 78, cut along a neutral fiber 84 and perpendicular to a pivot or intermediate joint axis 81, 83. Fig. Figure 10b shows a sectional drawing of a second embodiment of a pivot or intermediate joint 80, 82 with a first joint part 76 and a second joint part 78, cut along the neutral fiber 84 and perpendicular to the pivot or intermediate joint axis 81, 83. Fig. Figure 10c shows a sectional drawing of a third embodiment of a pivot or intermediate joint 80, 82 with a first joint part 76 and a second joint part 78, cut along the neutral fiber 84 and perpendicular to the pivot or intermediate joint axis 81, 83.

[0064] With reference to the Fig. Sections 10a to 10c below explain in detail how a roof segment (via a so-called swivel joint 80, see also Fig. 1 to 9) can be hinged to the roof longitudinal member 18 or like a roof segment (via an intermediate hinge 82 therein, see also Fig. 4, 6 and 7 to 9) can be hinged to an adjacent roof segment. The hinge principle is based on the bionic-mechanical concept of so-called "spirobs." The term originates from English and is a contraction of the words "spiral" and "robot." The concept of spirobs, as described in the Fig. The device shown in Figure 10a and explained below was originally developed by the University of Sciences and Technology of China and further developed for the purposes of the roof opening device described herein, as shown in the Fig. 10b and Fig. 10c is shown and explained below

[0065] As in the Fig. As indicated in Figures 1 to 9, a pivot joint 80 is arranged between at least one roof segment 22 and the roof longitudinal member 18 and / or between the second roof segment 44 and the roof longitudinal member 18. And as shown in the Fig. As indicated in Figures 4, 6 and 7 to 9, an intermediate hinge 82 is arranged between two adjacent roof segments, i.e., an adjacent first roof segment 72 and an adjacent second roof segment 74. The term “adjacent roof segment” is used herein with reference to the Fig. Sections 10a to 10c were introduced for the purpose of a concise description.

[0066] According to the bionic-mechanical concept and as described in the Fig. As shown in Figures 10a to 10c, a linkage of elements via a pivot joint 80 or via an intermediate joint 82 comprises a first joint part 76 and a second joint part 78, which is adjacent, in particular, within the linkage. The pivot joint 80 and the intermediate joint 82 each have a joint axis 81 and 83, respectively, in the region of a so-called neutral fiber 84. The pivot joint 80 and the intermediate joint 82 comprise the first joint part 76 and the second joint part 78.

[0067] In the case of a pivot joint 80, the first joint part 76 is assigned to and integrated into the roof longitudinal member 18, and the second joint part 78 is assigned to and integrated into the roof segment 22 or 44 articulated to the roof longitudinal member 18. In the case of an intermediate joint 82, the first joint part 76 is assigned to and integrated into an adjacent first roof segment 72, and the second joint part 78 is assigned to and integrated into the adjacent second roof segment 74.

[0068] On a first side 86 of the neutral fiber 84 in the immediate vicinity of the joint axis 81 or 83, an open area 90 is formed, which is bounded by a first stop surface 94 of the first joint part 76 and a second stop surface 96 of the second joint part 78, which is articulated to the first joint part 76 via the joint axis 81 or 83. The first stop surface 94 and the second stop surface 96 are arranged relative to each other at a predetermined angle 92, measured along a circumference around the joint axis 81 or 83. The open area 90 allows the second joint part 78 to pivot relative to the first joint part 76 by the predetermined angle 92 in the direction of the first joint part 76, as shown in the Fig. The relationship between 10a to 10c on the first page 86 and the neutral fiber 84 is indicated by a right-pointing arrow. The predetermined angle 90° is in a range from greater than zero to less than or equal to 180°.

[0069] According to the original principle of Spirobes and as described in the Fig. As shown in Figure 10a, a second open area 91 is formed on a second side 88 of the neutral fiber 84 in the immediate vicinity of the joint axis 81 or 83. This open area is bounded by a third stop surface 96 of the first joint part 76 and a fourth stop surface 100 of the second joint part 78, which is articulated to the first joint part 76 via the joint axis 81 or 83. The third stop surface 98 and the fourth stop surface 100 are arranged relative to each other at a second predetermined angle 93, measured in a direction opposite to the first predetermined angle 92 along a circumference around the joint axis 81 or 83. The second open area 91 allows the second joint part 78 to pivot relative to the first joint part 76 by the second predetermined angle 93 in the direction of the first joint part 76, as shown in Figure 10a. Fig. 10a on the second page 88 is indicated by a left-pointing arrow in relation to the neutral fiber 84. The second predetermined angle 93 is in a range from greater than zero to less than or equal to 180°.

[0070] In further developments (see Fig. 10b and Fig. 10c) for the purposes of the roof opening device described herein of the original bionic-mechanical principle according to the Spirobs (see Fig. 10a) is specific and as stated in the Fig. 10b and Fig. As shown in Figure 10c, on the second side 88 of the neutral fiber 84, no second open area 91 is provided; in other words, the second predetermined angle 93 is essentially zero. Therefore, the Fig. 10a The movement of the second joint part 78 relative to the first joint part 76 is blocked by the left-pointing arrow. However, the second joint part 78 can still move relative to the first joint part 76, as shown in the Fig. 10b and Fig. As shown in 10c, move by the predetermined angle 92, as indicated there by the arrow pointing to the right.

[0071] In the further developments, a third stop surface 98 of the first joint part 76 and a fourth stop surface 100 of the second joint part 78 are formed on the second side 88 of the neutral fiber 84 in the immediate vicinity of the joint axis 81 or 83. The third stop surface 98 and the fourth stop surface 100 are designed to interlock with each other. The third stop surface 98 and the fourth stop surface 100 are in contact when the second joint part 78 is arranged in the closed position relative to the first joint part 76, as shown in the Fig. 10b and Fig. 10c is indicated. The third stop surface 98 and the fourth stop surface 100 are arranged pivoted relative to each other at the predetermined angle 90 when the second joint part 78 is in the open position in relation to the first joint part 76.

[0072] In the in the Fig. 10a and Fig. In the embodiments of the pivot joint 80 and the intermediate joint 82 shown in Figure 10b, the stop surfaces 94, 96, 98 and 100 are essentially flat surfaces. In the embodiment shown in the Fig. In the embodiment of the pivot joint 80 or the intermediate joint 82 shown in Figure 10c, the stop surfaces 94, 96, 98 and 100 are curved, possibly also multiply curved, surfaces; this provides additional stability with respect to relative displacements of the second joint part 78 in relation to the first joint part 76 in a substantially transverse direction to the neutral fiber 84.

[0073] Fig. Figure 11a shows a side oblique view of a motor vehicle 12 with a roof opening device 10 in the ninth embodiment according to the Fig. 9, furthermore, a drive device for moving the roof opening device from its closed position to its open position and back is indicated. Fig. Figure 11b shows an oblique front view of the motor vehicle 12 with the roof opening device 10 in the ninth embodiment according to the Fig. 9, furthermore, the drive device for moving the roof opening device from its closed position to its open position and back is indicated.

[0074] As is done through the Fig. 11a and Fig. As indicated in 11b, at least one roof segment 22 and, if applicable, further roof segments 36, 54, 60 directly or indirectly articulated to it can be moved from their closed position 28 by means of a drive device (see Fig. 1 to 9) of the at least one roof segment 22 corresponding to their respective positions to their respective positions corresponding to the opening position 30 of the at least one roof segment 22 and back. The drive device can comprise a first drive motor 102, a first rotating shaft 104 attached to the first drive motor 102, and at least one first cable 106. The first cable 106 can be wound onto or unwound from the first rotating shaft 104. The at least one first cable 106 is attached to the roof segment furthest from the first rotating shaft 106 (in the example of the Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b attached to at least one further roof segment 36).

[0075] If the drive motor 102 now drives or rotates the first rotating shaft 104 in one direction of rotation, so that the first rope 106 is wound onto the first rotating shaft 104, the roof segment furthest from the first rotating shaft 106 (in the example of the Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b on which at least one further roof segment 36) is pulled towards or moved into its open position by the first cable 106. The roof segment located furthest from the first rotating shaft 106 can rotate a maximum of (with reference to the Fig. 10b and Fig. (as described in 10c) pivots the first predetermined angle 92 relative to its adjacent roof segment located closer to the first rotating shaft 106, then it “takes” its adjacent roof segment “with it” (e.g., by the contact of the second stop surface 96 with the first stop surface 94 according to the Fig. 10b and Fig. 10c), etc., until at least one roof segment 22, which is directly articulated to the roof longitudinal member 18, is or has been carried along and moved into its open position 30 (as shown in the Fig. 9 is shown).

[0076] Based on the one in the Fig. In the fully open position of the roof opening device 10 shown in Figure 9, when the drive motor 102 now drives or rotates the first rotating shaft 104 in the opposite direction of rotation, so that the first cable 106 is unwound from the first rotating shaft 104, first the at least one roof segment 22, which is directly articulated to the roof longitudinal member 18, is (under the influence of its gravity) allowed or moved back into its closed position 28 by the unwinding cable 106, then the adjacent roof segment, which is further away from the first rotating shaft 104 (also under the influence of its gravity), and so on, until the roof segment furthest from the first rotating shaft 106 (in the example of Figure 9) is also closed. Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b that at least one further roof segment 36) has been allowed or transferred back into its closing position by the uncoiling first rope 106.

[0077] Similarly, the second roof segment 44 and, if applicable, further roof segments 54 directly or indirectly articulated to it can also be moved from their positions corresponding to the closing position 50 of the second roof segment 44 to their positions corresponding to the opening position 52 of the second roof segment 44 and back again by means of a corresponding second drive device (not shown).

[0078] Finally, according to the second aspect of the invention, this includes a motor vehicle 12 (see Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b) with a first side door 14, a second side door 16 and a roof opening device 10 according to the first aspect and as with reference to the Fig. described in sections 1 to 11b. Reference symbol list 10 Roof opening device 12 Motor vehicle 13 Interior 14 first side door 15 first side window 16 second side door 17 second side window 18 roof longitudinal beams 20 first roof opening section 22 at least one roof segment or first roof segment 24 first longitudinal edge 26 second longitudinal edge 28 Closing positions 30 Opening position 32 Swivel joint 34 Swivel joint axis 36 at least one additional roof segment 38 first longitudinal edge 40 second longitudinal edge 42 second roof opening section 43 fixed roof section 44 second roof segment 46 first longitudinal edge 48 second longitudinal edge 50 locking positions 52 Opening position 54 third roof segment 56 first longitudinal edge 58 second longitudinal edge 60 fourth roof segment 62 first longitudinal edge 64 second longitudinal edge 72 adjacent first roof segment 74 adjacent second roof segment 76 first joint part 78 second joint part 80 swivel joint 81 Swivel joint axle 82 Intermediate joint 83 Intermediate joint axle 84 neutral fiber 86 first page 88 second page 90 open area 91 second open area 92 predetermined angles 93 second definite angle 94 first stop surface 96 second stop surface 98 third stop surface 100 fourth stop surface 102 first drive motor 104 first rotating shaft 106 first rope 108 Longitudinal direction or X-direction 110 Transverse direction or Y-direction 112 vertical direction or Z-direction QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] DE 199 36 538 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Roof opening device (10) for a motor vehicle (12), wherein the motor vehicle (12) has a first side door (14) and a second side door (16) laterally opposite the first side door (14), wherein the roof opening device (10) comprises the following: a roof longitudinal beam (18) extending in a longitudinal direction (108) of the motor vehicle (12), at least one roof segment (22) with a first longitudinal edge (24) and a second longitudinal edge (26) laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge (24), wherein the at least one roof segment (22) is pivotably hinged to the roof longitudinal member (18) via its first longitudinal edge (24) and is pivotable between a closed position (28) in which the at least one roof segment (22) covers a first roof opening section (20) and an open position (30) in which the at least one roof segment (22) releases the first roof opening section (20), wherein the first roof opening section (20) is arranged in an area between the roof longitudinal member (18) and the first side door (14), characterized by, that the roof longitudinal member (18) is designed and configured to be arranged in a first variant in an area above and between the first and the second side door (14, 16) and in a second variant in an area substantially above the second side door (16), wherein in the first variant the at least one roof segment (22) is designed to rest on the first side door (14) in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge (26), and wherein in the second variant the roof opening device (10) has at least one further roof segment (36) with a first longitudinal edge (38) and a second longitudinal edge (40) laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge (38), wherein the at least one further roof segment (36) is pivotably hinged to the at least one roof segment (22) via its first longitudinal edge (38) and via the second longitudinal edge (26) of the at least one further roof segment (36), and the at least one further roof segment (36) is designed to rest on the first side door (14) in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge (40). [2] Roof opening device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the roof longitudinal member (18) is arranged and designed according to the first variant, and wherein the roof opening device (10) is designed to cover a second roof opening section (42) which is arranged in an area between the roof longitudinal member (18) and the second side door (16). [3] Roof opening device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the roof longitudinal member (18) is arranged and designed according to the first variant, wherein the roof opening device (10) has at least a second roof segment (44) with a first longitudinal edge (46) and a second longitudinal edge (48) laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge (44), wherein the second roof segment (44) is pivotably hinged to the roof longitudinal member (18) via its first longitudinal edge (46) and is pivotable between a closed position (50) in which the second roof segment (44) covers a second roof opening section (42) and an open position (52) in which the second roof segment (44) releases the second roof opening section (42), wherein the second roof segment (44) is further configured to rest on the second side door (16) in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge (48), and wherein the second roof opening section (42) is arranged in an area between the roof longitudinal member (18) and the second side door (16). [4] Roof opening device (10) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the roof longitudinal member is further (18) arranged and designed to be located in an area above and centrally between the first side door (14) and the second side door (16). [5] Roof opening device (10) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the roof longitudinal member (18) is arranged and designed to be located in an area above, but not centrally between, the first side door (14) and the second side door (16). [6] Roof opening device (10) according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the roof opening device (10) has at least a third roof segment (54) with a first longitudinal edge (56) and a second longitudinal edge (58) laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge (56), wherein the at least one roof segment (22) is not designed to rest on the first side door (14) in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge (26), but the third roof segment (54) is pivotally hinged to the at least one roof segment (22) via its first longitudinal edge (56) and via the second longitudinal edge (26) of the at least one roof segment (22), and wherein the third roof segment (54) is designed to rest on the first side door (14) in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge (58). [7] Roof opening device (10) according to one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the roof opening device (10) has at least a fourth roof segment (60) with a first longitudinal edge (62) and a second longitudinal edge (64) laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge (62), wherein the second roof segment (44) is not designed to rest on the second side door (16) in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge (48), but the fourth roof segment (60) is pivotally hinged to the second roof segment (44) via its first longitudinal edge (62) and via the second longitudinal edge (48) of the second roof segment (44), and wherein the fourth roof segment (44) is designed to rest on the second side door (16) in the area of ​​its second longitudinal edge (48). [8] Roof opening device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the roof longitudinal member (10) is arranged and designed according to the second variant, wherein the roof opening device (10) has at least a third roof segment (54) with a first longitudinal edge (56) and a second longitudinal edge (58) laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge (56), wherein the third roof segment (54) is arranged between the at least one roof segment (22) and the at least one further roof segment (36), wherein the third roof segment (54) is pivotably connected to the at least one roof segment (22) via its first longitudinal edge (56) and via its second longitudinal edge (26) of the at least one first roof segment (22) and is pivotably connected to the at least one further roof segment (36) via its second longitudinal edge (58) and via its first longitudinal edge (38) of the at least one further roof segment (36). [9] Roof opening device (10) according to claim 8, wherein the roof opening device (10) has at least a fourth roof segment (60) with a first longitudinal edge (62) and a second longitudinal edge (64) laterally opposite the first longitudinal edge (62), wherein the fourth roof segment (60) is arranged between the third roof segment (54) and the at least one further roof segment (36) and wherein the fourth roof segment (60) is pivotably connected to the third roof segment (54) via its first longitudinal edge (62) and via its second longitudinal edge (58) of the third roof segment (54) and is pivotally connected to the at least one further roof segment (36) via its second longitudinal edge (64) and via its first longitudinal edge (38) of the at least one further roof segment (36). [10] Roof opening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a first roof beam associated with the first side door is not formed in the area above the first side door (14) or a first roof beam associated with the first side door (14) is interrupted in its course along an edge of the roof opening device (10) in the area above the first side door (14), so that in the area of ​​the upper edge of the first side door (14) and / or in the area above it (14), when the roof segment (22, 54, 36), which in its closed position (28) can rest on the first side door (14), is moved into its open position (30), a first door opening associated with the first side door (14) is enlarged, wherein a second roof beam associated with the second side door (16) is not formed in the area above the second side door (16) or a second roof beam associated with the second side door (16) is interrupted in its course along an edge of the roof opening device (10) in the area above the second side door (16), so that in the area of ​​the upper edge of the second side door (16) and / or in the area above it (16), when the roof segment (44, 60), which in its closed position (50) can rest on the second side door (16), is moved into its open position (52), a second door opening associated with the second side door (16) is enlarged. [11] Roof opening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein when the at least one roof segment (22) and optionally further roof segments (54, 60) directly or indirectly articulated to it are moved into their positions corresponding to the opening position of the at least one roof segment (22), the at least one roof segment (22) and the further roof segments (54, 60) directly or indirectly articulated to it are arranged in an area above the roof opening device (10), in particular wherein when the second roof segment (44) and optionally further roof segments (60) directly or indirectly articulated to it are moved into their positions corresponding to the opening position of the second roof segment (44), the second roof segment (44) and the further roof segments (60) directly or indirectly articulated to it are arranged in an area above the roof opening device (10). [12] Roof opening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the at least one roof segment (22) and optionally further roof segments (36, 54, 60) directly or indirectly articulated to it can be moved by means of a drive device from their positions corresponding to the closed position (28) of the at least one roof segment (22) to their positions corresponding to the open position (30) of the at least one roof segment (22) and back again, wherein the drive device comprises a first drive motor (102), a first rotating shaft (104) attached to the first drive motor (102), and at least one first rope (106), in particular one that can be wound onto or off the first rotating shaft; wherein in particular the second roof segment (44) and optionally further roof segments (54) directly or indirectly articulated to it can be moved by means of a second drive device from their positions corresponding to the closed position (50) of the second roof segment (44) to their positions corresponding to the open position (52) of the second roof segment (44) and back again, wherein the second drive device comprises a second drive motor, a second rotating shaft attached to the second drive motor, and at least one second cable, in particular one that can be wound onto or off the first rotating shaft. [13] Roof opening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein a pivot joint (80) is arranged between the at least one roof segment (22) and the roof longitudinal member (18) and / or between the second roof segment (44) and the roof longitudinal member (18), wherein an intermediate joint (82) is arranged between two adjacent roof segments, i.e. an adjacent first roof segment (72) and an adjacent second roof segment (74), wherein the pivot joint (80) and / or the intermediate joint (82) has a joint axis (81, 83) in the region of a neutral fiber (84), wherein the pivot joint (80) and / or the intermediate joint (82) has a first joint part (76) and a second joint part (78), wherein in the case of a pivot joint (80) the first joint part (76) is assigned to and integrated into the roof longitudinal member (18) and the second joint part (78) is assigned to and integrated into the roof segment (22, 44) articulated to the roof longitudinal member (18) and wherein in the case of an intermediate joint (82) the first joint part (76) is assigned to and integrated into the adjacent first roof segment (72) and the second joint part (78) is assigned to and integrated into the adjacent second roof segment (74), wherein on a first side (86) of the neutral fiber (84) in the immediate vicinity of the joint axis (81, 83) an open area (90) is formed, which is bounded by a first stop surface (94) of the first joint part (76) and a second stop surface (96) of the second joint part (78), which is articulated to the first joint part (76) via the joint axis (81, 83), wherein the first stop surface (94) and the second stop surface (96) are arranged at a predetermined angle (92) to each other, measured along a circumference around the joint axis (81, 83), wherein the open area (90) allows the second joint part (78) to pivot relative to the first joint part (76) by the predetermined angle (92) in the direction of the first joint part (76), wherein the predetermined angle (90) is in a range from greater than zero to less than or equal to 180°, and wherein on a second side (88) of the neutral fiber (84) in the immediate vicinity of the joint axis (81, 83) a third stop surface (98) of the first joint part (76) and a fourth stop surface (100) of the second joint part (78) are formed, wherein the third stop surface (98) and the fourth stop surface (100) are formed in a form-fitting manner relative to each other, wherein the third stop surface (98) and the fourth stop surface (100) touch each other when the second joint part (78) is arranged in the closed position relative to the first joint part (76), wherein the third stop surface (98) and the fourth stop surface (100) are arranged pivoted relative to each other at a specific angle (90) when the second joint part (78) is arranged in the open position relative to the first joint part (76). [14] Motor vehicle (12) with a first side door (14), a second side door (16) and a roof opening device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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