Tensioning device for a window regulator

Abstract

Tensioning device (41) for a window regulator (16) for raising and lowering a window (14) of a vehicle (10), comprising: a first tensioning device bracket (50); a second tensioning device bracket (56); a spring (52) arranged between the first tensioning device bracket (50) and the second tensioning device bracket (56); and an adjusting sleeve (54) configured to engage with features of the first tensioning device bracket (50) when the second tensioning device bracket (56) is moved away from the first tensioning device bracket (50) due to a preload force of the spring (52).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Exemplary embodiments relate to vehicle technology and in particular to tensioning devices for vehicle window regulators. BACKGROUND

[0002] Passenger cars typically have windows surrounding the passenger compartment. Windows in vehicle doors may be designed to be electrically raised and lowered by an operator. The operator may be the driver or a passenger, usually using a switch inside the vehicle. The physical raising and lowering of a window is accomplished by an electromechanical device called a window regulator.

[0003] The window regulator comprises a drive unit (a motor) connected to a drive device (such as a cable or belt) that transmits a driving force to the window regulator. The window may be driven by sliders or sliders that are movable along tracks or guide rails under the action of the cable. The cable may be divided into a lower cable and an upper cable, wound in opposite directions on a drum driven by the motor.

[0004] The tension in the cable(s) in the window regulator must be effectively controlled. Sagging of the cable(s) leads to inaccuracies in the operation of the window regulator and inaccuracies in the position of the sliders or runners relative to the position of the cable winding / unwinding drum. On the other hand, excessive cable tension can lead to inefficient operation and premature wear of the window regulator components.

[0005] The operating accuracy of the window regulator is important, especially for a window regulator used in a frameless door. In a frameless car door, the top edge of the glass engages the roof seal when the car door is fully closed.

[0006] The components of the window regulator device are subject to gradual aging, which can lead to stretching of the cable, for example, due to wear on the drive drum and pulleys, compression of the cable sleeves, or creep in the pulleys. Stretching of the cable caused by aging of the various parts of the window regulator must be compensated.

[0007] Furthermore, the drive motor still exerts a torque on the window regulator when the window reaches its upper limit during the window lifting process. Excessive torque at the upper limit can lead to elastic deformation of the window regulator components and cause elastic stretching of the cable and other stressed units.

[0008] Slack compensation mechanisms are used to absorb cable stretch and ensure sufficient tension for proper operation of the window regulator. However, these mechanisms consist of several components.

[0009] There is therefore a need for a cable tensioning device in a window lift device that can effectively and efficiently absorb the stretching of the cable and ensure sufficient tension for the proper operation of the window lift device. SHORT DESCRIPTION

[0010] A tensioner for a window regulator for raising and lowering a window of a vehicle is disclosed, comprising: a first tensioner bracket; a second tensioner bracket; a spring disposed between the first tensioner bracket and the second tensioner bracket; and an adjustment sleeve configured to engage features of the first tensioner bracket when the second tensioner bracket is moved away from the first tensioner bracket due to a biasing force of the spring.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the features of the first clamp mount are a plurality of teeth, and the adjustment sleeve has a plurality of arm portions each flexibly extending from a main body portion of the adjustment sleeve, each of the plurality of arm portions having a hook portion located at a distal end thereof.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the plurality of arm portions are each separated by slots that receive features located between the plurality of teeth.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the foregoing embodiments, a respective one of the features engages each hook portion of the plurality of arm portions such that the adjustment sleeve can be slid onto the first clamp mount and the adjustment sleeve is rotatably received on the first clamp mount until the adjustment sleeve is rotated and the slots receive features and the hook portion engages one of the plurality of teeth, the features, when received in the slots, preventing rotational movement of the adjustment sleeve with respect to the first clamp mount.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the adjustment sleeve is partially received within a cavity of the second clamp support, and the cavity defines a limit of movement of the plurality of arm portions away from the first clamp support.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the adjustment sleeve is partially received within a cavity of the second clamp holder, and the adjustment sleeve has a projection configured to slide within a recess located in an inner surface of the cavity of the second clamp holder, wherein the sliding movement of the projection within the recess defines a predefined range of movement between the second clamp holder and the adjustment sleeve before the clamp irreversibly adjusts to a greater length.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the spring contacts a flange of the first clamp support and a flange of the second clamp support to bias the second clamp support away from the first clamp support.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the adjustment sleeve is rotatably received in an opening of the first clamp mount, and the adjustment sleeve has a plurality of step features that engage complementary step features located on an inner surface of the opening.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to one of the preceding embodiments, the spring is a first spring and the adjusting sleeve is provided with a rotational biasing force by a second spring.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the second spring is a torsion spring, and one end of the torsion spring engages an opening in the adjustment sleeve and an opposite end of the second spring engages an opening in the second tensioner bracket.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, a portion of the second clamp mount has a wedge configuration that allows it to be inserted into and through an opening of the adjustment sleeve, and thereafter, rotational movement of the wedge configuration prevents the wedge configuration from sliding back into the opening.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the adjustment sleeve is rotatably received in an opening of the first clamp holder, and the adjustment sleeve has a plurality of step features that engage with complementary step features located on an inner surface of the opening, and wherein a rotational force is exerted on the adjustment sleeve by the spring.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, one end of the spring engages an opening in the second tensioner bracket, and an opposite end of the spring engages an elongated opening in the adjusting sleeve.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the adjustment sleeve is further rotatably received on the second clamp support, while a feature of the second clamp support is slidably received in an elongated opening of the first clamp support, allowing linear movement of the second clamp support with respect to the first clamp support while preventing rotational movement of the second clamp support with respect to the first clamp support.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a seal secured to the first clamp mount, and wherein the adjustment sleeve is rotatably received in an opening of the first clamp mount, the adjustment sleeve having a plurality of step features that engage complementary step features located on an inner surface of the opening, and wherein the seal has a feature that slides in an elongated opening in a surface of the adjustment sleeve when the adjustment sleeve rotates with respect to the first clamp mount.

[0025] Further disclosed is a tensioner for a window regulator for raising and lowering a window of a vehicle, comprising: a first tensioner bracket; a second tensioner bracket; a spring disposed between the first tensioner bracket and the second tensioner bracket; an adjustment rack slidably mounted to a recessed area of ​​the second tensioner bracket; and a spring-biased tongue portion mounted to the first tensioner bracket, the spring-biased tongue portion configured to engage teeth of the adjustment rack to enable irreversible increase in a length of the tensioner when an end of the adjustment rack contacts a wall of a recessed area.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative to any of the preceding embodiments, the spring-biased tongue portion has one end received within an opening of the first clamp holder.

[0027] Further disclosed is a window regulator comprising: at least one guide rail; at least one slider slidably mounted on the at least one guide rail; at least one cable operatively connected at one end to the at least one slider and at an opposite end to a cable drum; at least one cable sleeve surrounding the at least one cable, the at least one cable being slidably received in the at least one cable sleeve; a motor mounted on a housing, the motor being operatively coupled to the cable drum such that operation of the motor rotates the cable drum and causes movement of the at least one slider along the at least one guide rail; a tensioning device disposed between the housing and the at least one cable sleeve, the tensioning device comprising: a first tensioning device mount; a second tensioning device mount;a spring disposed between the first clamp support and the second clamp support; and an adjustment sleeve configured to engage features of the first clamp support when the second clamp support is moved away from the first clamp support due to a biasing force of the spring. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The following descriptions are not to be considered limiting in any way. Referring to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike: Fig. 1 is a partial view of a vehicle having a window regulator with a tensioning device according to the present disclosure; Fig. 2A is a perspective view of a dual-action window regulator with a tensioning device according to the present disclosure; Fig. 2B is a perspective view of a single-stroke window regulator with a tensioning device according to the present disclosure; Fig. 3 is an exploded view of a clamping device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with a clamping device bracket and an adjusting sleeve of the clamping device shown separately; Fig. 4 is another exploded view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 3; Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 3; Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the tensioner shown in Fig. 3 without a spring and a second tensioner bracket; Fig. 6A-6C illustrate the mounting of an adjusting sleeve on the clamping device bracket; Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 3; Fig. 8 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a clamping device according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 9 is an exploded view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 8; Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 8; Fig. 11A is a perspective view of parts of the clamping device shown in Fig. 8; Fig. 11B is a perspective view of parts of the clamping device shown in Fig. 8; Fig. 12 is an exploded view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 8; Fig. 13 is an end view of a first clamp mount shown in Fig. 12, and Fig. 13A is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 13A-13A in Fig. 13; Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 8; Fig. 15 is a side view of a clamping device according to still another embodiment; Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 15; Fig. 17 is an exploded view of parts of the clamping device shown in Fig. 16, Fig. 17A is an end view of Fig. 17, and Fig. 17B is an opposite end view of Fig. 17; Fig. 18A is a perspective view of parts of the clamping device shown in Fig. 15, with the first clamping device support shown in phantom; Fig. 18B is a perspective view of parts of the clamping device shown in Fig. 15; Fig. 18C is a perspective view of parts of the clamping device shown in Fig. 15; Fig. 19A is a perspective view of a clamping device according to yet another embodiment, with the first clamping device mount shown in phantom; Fig. 19B is an exploded view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 19A; Fig. 20 is a view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 19A; Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 21-21 of Fig. 20; and Figs. 22 - 26 are views of components of the clamping device shown in Fig. 20; Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a clamping device according to still another embodiment; Fig. 28 is an exploded perspective view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 27; Fig. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the clamping device shown in Fig. 15; and Fig. 30 is a perspective view of parts of the clamping device shown in Fig. 27. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed devices and methods is presented herein by way of example and not limitation with reference to the figures.

[0030] Described herein is a device for raising and lowering a window of a vehicle. The device may be referred to as a "window regulator." In one or more embodiments, the window regulator is an electromechanical device that can be controlled by a user inside the vehicle, for example, by actuating a switch.

[0031] Fig. 1 is a partial side view of a vehicle 10 having at least one door 12 with a window 14 configured to be raised and lowered by a window regulator 16 disposed in door panels (e.g., outside and inside) of the door 12. Although only one door 12 and one window 14 are illustrated, it is contemplated that the window regulator or the present disclosure may be used in a vehicle having multiple doors and associated windows. Therefore, one or more other windows 14 of the vehicle 10 may also be operated by a window regulator 16 according to the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the window regulator 16 is configured to raise and lower a window in a frameless vehicle door.

[0032] Fig. 2A is a perspective view of the dual-throw window regulator 16. The window regulator 16 includes a pair of guide rails 18, each of which has a slider 20 slidably mounted on a respective one of the pair of guide rails 18. The pair of guide rails 18 may be referred to as a first guide rail 18' and a second guide rail 18''. In the illustrated embodiment, the first guide rail 18' is disposed closer to a front portion of the vehicle or vehicle door than the second guide rail 18'' when the window regulator 16 is mounted to the vehicle door. Thus, the second guide rail 18'' is disposed closer to a rear portion of the vehicle or vehicle door than the first guide rail 18' when the window regulator 16 is mounted to the vehicle door. Additionally, the corresponding slider may be referred to as a first slider 20 and a second slider 20.Each slider 20 is configured to be attached to the window 14, and each slider 20 is operatively coupled to at least one cable or pair of cables.

[0033] Each of the two guide rails 18 of the window regulator 16 may include an upper pulley or upper cam 24 attached to an upper portion of each guide rail 18. As shown, the upper pulley or upper cam 24 is aligned with the guide rail 18. The upper pulley or upper cam is configured to receive a cable in either a rotating or sliding manner. For example, a first cable 22 is attached at one end to one of the two sliders 20 and at an opposite end to a cable drum 28, and a second cable 23 is attached at one end to the other of the two sliders 20 and at an opposite end to the cable drum 28. Additionally, a third cable 27 is attached at one end to one of the two sliders 20 and at an opposite end to the other of the two sliders 20.Alternatively, and as mentioned above, only a single rope is attached to the sliders 20 and the drum 28.

[0034] Fig. 2B is a perspective view of the single-lift window regulator 16. The single-lift window regulator includes a guide rail 18 with a slider 20 slidably mounted thereon. The slider 20 is configured to be attached to the window 14 and is operatively connected to at least one cable or pair of cables.

[0035] The guide rail 18 of the window regulator 16 may have an attached upper pulley or upper cam 24. The upper pulley or upper cam is configured to receive a cable either rotationally or slidingly. For example, a first cable 22 is attached at one end to the slider 20 and at the opposite end to a cable drum 28, and a second cable 23 is attached at one end to the slider 20 and at an opposite end to the cable drum 28. Alternatively, and as mentioned above, only a single cable is attached to the sliders 20 and the drum 28.

[0036] The cable drum 28 is rotatably mounted on a housing 30. To impart a rotational movement to the cable drum 28, a motor 32 is operatively coupled to the cable drum 28, for example, via a worm drive (not shown) that is rotated by the motor 32. In one embodiment, none of the guide rails 18 are attached to the housing 30.

[0037] The guide rail 18 also includes a lower pulley or cam 34. As shown, the lower pulley or cam 34 is aligned with the guide rail 18. The lower pulley or cam 34 is configured to rotatably or slidably receive one of the cables.

[0038] When the cable drum 28 is rotated, either the first cable 22 or the second cable 23 is wound onto the cable drum 28, while the other cable unwinds, causing the slider 20 to move in the directions of the arrows 38. In addition, the cable 27, which is not connected to the cable drum 28, moves accordingly. For example, the cable 27 is attached at one end to an upper part of one slider 20 and at its opposite end to a lower part of the other slider 20. Movement of the sliders 20 in the directions of the arrows 38 causes the window 14 to move up and down with respect to the vehicle door 12.

[0039] The window regulator 16 further includes a first cable sleeve 44 for the first cable 22, which extends from the guide rail 18 to the housing 30. Furthermore, a second cable sleeve 40 extends from the housing 30 to the guide rail 18. Further, a third cable sleeve 42 extends from a rear guide rail 18'' to a front guide rail 18'.

[0040] The first cable 22 is slidably received in the first cable sleeve 44, and the second cable 23 is slidably received in the second cable sleeve 40, and the third cable 27 is slidably received in the third cable sleeve 42. These cables 22, 23, and 27 and their associated cable sleeves 44, 40, and 42 are referred to as Bowden cables. The second cable sleeve 40 also includes a tensioning device 41 so that slack in the second cable 23 is absorbed, as is known in the relevant art. For example, if the tensioning force imparted to the lower cable or the second cable 23 is higher than the load exerted on the window regulator when the glass is moved in the downward direction (e.g., load exerted on the window regulator in the downward direction = glass friction - glass load).Thus, the tensioning device 41 according to the present disclosure meets the requirements under all conditions (climatic conditions) and over the entire service life of the window regulator.

[0041] Not shown are a controller for controlling the motor 32 and inputs to the controller, such as user-operated switches, a door ajar switch, and a vehicle control module, which may also provide input to the controller. Also not shown is an electrical power system, which may include a battery and an alternator, since electrical power systems and window controls for vehicles are well known in the art, and these components are not explained in further detail.

[0042] Referring now to Figures 3-7, a clamping device 41 according to the present disclosure is illustrated. The clamping device 41 includes a first clamp support 50, a spring 52, an adjustment sleeve 54, and a second clamp support 56. The adjustment sleeve 54 is slidably mounted to the first clamp support 50, and the spring 52 provides a biasing force between the first clamp support 50 and the second clamp support 56. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first clamp support 50, the adjustment sleeve 54, and the second clamp support 56 are made of an easily moldable material, such as plastic.

[0043] The adjustment sleeve 54 is partially received within a cavity 58 of the second tensioner bracket 56. The adjustment sleeve 54 also includes a projection 60 configured to slide within a recess 70 located in an inner surface 72 of the cavity 58. The configuration of the recess 70 and the projection defines a range of movement of the adjustment sleeve 54 relative to the second tensioner bracket 56 when the adjustment sleeve 54 is partially received within the cavity 58. This range of movement allows for a predetermined amount of slack before the tensioner 41 irreversibly adjusts to a greater length.For example, this predetermined amount of sag may be referred to as a deviation to keep a frameless window sealed if one side of the window does not reach the top, so that the tensioning device does not irreversibly remove this predetermined amount of sag. The predetermined amount of sag is defined by a range of movement of the projection 60 within the recess 70. The inner surface 72 of the cavity 58 is angled toward the recess 70 so that when the adjusting sleeve 54 is inserted into the cavity 50, the projection 60 is received within the recess 70 via an interference fit. The projection 60 further has a first surface 62 and a second surface 64. The recess 70 also has a first surface 71 and a second surface 73.

[0044] The adjustment sleeve 54 includes a plurality of arm portions 74, each flexibly extending from a main body portion 76 of the adjustment sleeve 54. Each of the plurality of arm portions 74 includes a hook portion 78 located at a distal end of the arm portion 74. The plurality of arm portions 74 are resilient such that they can be moved from a first position by a force, and then, upon removal of the force, the plurality of arm portions return to the first position. The first jig mount 50 includes a plurality of angled teeth 80 that engage the hook portions 78 of each of the plurality of flexible arm portions 74 when in the first position. The hook portions 78 and the plurality of angled teeth 80 enable the adjustment sleeve 54 to move in an extendable manner relative to the first jig mount 50 in the direction of arrow 82.The engagement of the hook portions 78 with a surface 84 of the plurality of angled teeth 80 prevents movement of the adjustment sleeve 54 in a direction opposite to the arrow 82 with respect to the first clamp mount 50.

[0045] The cavity 58 also provides a limit or range of movement of the plurality of arm portions 74 away from the plurality of angled teeth 80. This range of movement depends on the position of the adjustment sleeve 54 relative to the second chuck mount 56. For example, in one non-limiting embodiment, each of the plurality of arm portions 74 also includes an outwardly extending protrusion 75 with an angled surface located near a distal end of the arm portion 74. The angled surface of the outwardly extending protrusion 75 is configured to contact the angled surface of the cavity 58 to provide the limit of movement of the plurality of arm portions 74 away from the plurality of angled teeth 80. This range of movement (e.g.away from the teeth 80) may depend on the position of the projection 60 within the recess 70, as this determines the position of the angled surface of the outwardly projecting projection 75 with respect to the angled surface of the cavity 58.

[0046] For example, in one non-limiting embodiment, when the second surface 73 of the recess 70 of the second chuck support 56 contacts the second surface 64 of the projection 60 of the adjustment sleeve 54, a greater portion of the angled surface of the outwardly extending projections 75 is received within the cavity 58 than when the first surface 71 of the recess 70 of the second chuck support 56 contacts the first surface 62 of the projection 60 of the adjustment sleeve 54. When the greater portion of the angled surface of the outwardly extending projections 75 is received within the cavity 58, the cavity allows a smaller amount or range of movement of the plurality of arm portions 74 away from the plurality of angled teeth 80 than when the first surface 71 of the recess 70 of the second chuck support 56 contacts the first surface 62 of the projection 60 of the adjustment sleeve 54. In this position (e.g.When the first surface 62 contacts the first surface 71, the cavity 58 allows a greater range of movement of the plurality of arm portions 74 away from the plurality of angled teeth 80 than when the second surface 64 contacts the second surface 73. This is due to the corresponding position of the angled surfaces of the outwardly projecting protrusions 75 with respect to the angled surface of the cavity 58.

[0047] The plurality of flexible arm portions 74 are each separated by slots 86 that receive features 88 located between the plurality of angled teeth 80 when the adjustment sleeve 54 is attached and / or mounted to the first jig mount 50. See, for example, Figs. 6A-6C. During assembly of the adjustment sleeve 54 to the first jig mount 50, the hook portions 78 are aligned to engage the tops of the features 88 such that the hook portions 78 do not engage the plurality of angled teeth 80, allowing the adjustment sleeve 54 to slide onto the first jig mount 50 in the direction of arrow 81. Once the adjustment sleeve 54 is in the desired position (Fig.6B), the adjustment sleeve 54 is then rotated in the direction of arrow 83 until the flexible arm portions fall onto the plurality of angled teeth 80 between the features 88, such that the features 88 are received in the slots 86. In the assembled state, the spring 52 contacts a flange 90 of the first clamp bracket 50 and a flange 92 of the second clamp bracket 56. In one non-limiting embodiment, a seal 91 is disposed between the flange 92 and the spring 52. When the clamp 41 is assembled, as at least shown in FIG. 7, the spring 52 is compressed, and the spring 52 contacts the flange 90 of the first clamp bracket 50 and the flange 92 of the second clamp bracket 56, such that a biasing force is exerted in the direction of arrows 94.

[0048] To maintain the tensioner 41 and spring 52 in the compressed state, as shown at least in Fig. 7, a retaining pin 96 is inserted into an opening 98 in the second tensioner bracket 56 and engages a groove or recess 100 provided in the first tensioner bracket 50. Thereafter, and once the tensioner 41 is installed in its desired location, the pin 96 is removed and the spring force in the direction of arrows 94 is applied.

[0049] Thus, when slack occurs in a cable 23, as mentioned above, this slack is taken up when the flanges 90 and 92 move away from each other in the direction of arrows 94 due to the biasing force of the spring 52 and the hook portions 78 of each of the plurality of arm portions 74 engage one of the plurality of angled teeth 80 of the first tensioner bracket 50.

[0050] Fig. 7 also shows how the tensioner 41 is secured to the housing 30, for example, by receiving a portion of the first tensioner mount 50 in a complementary opening 102 of the housing 30. The cavity 58 and opening 108 of the second tensioner mount 56 relatively slidably receive the first tensioner mount 50. The first tensioner mount 50 also defines an opening 106. The opening 106 and opening 108 define a path through which the cable 23 can slide. Therefore, the tensioner 41 provides a means and method for eliminating cable slack.

[0051] Referring now to Figures 8-14, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated; here, the adjustment sleeve 54 is rotatably received within the opening 106 of the first tensioner bracket 50, and the adjustment sleeve 54 includes a plurality of step features 110 that engage complementary step features 112 located on the inner surface of the opening 106. Thus, when the adjustment sleeve 54 rotates with respect to the first tensioner bracket 50 in the direction of arrow 114, and when the second tensioner bracket 56 moves away from the first tensioner bracket 50 in the direction of arrows 94 due to the biasing force of the first spring 52, the length "L" of the tensioner 41 irreversibly increases due to the configuration of the step features 110 and 112 and their interaction with one another. This eliminates slack in the cable 23.

[0052] To provide the rotational force to the adjustment sleeve 54 in the direction of arrow 114, a second spring 53 is provided. In one embodiment, the second spring 53 is a torsion spring, with one end 116 engaging an opening 118 in the adjustment sleeve 54 and an opposite end 119 of the second spring 53 engaging an opening 120 in the second tensioner bracket 56.

[0053] The adjustment sleeve 54 is also rotatably received on the second clamp bracket 56. The portion 104 of the second clamp bracket 56 has a wedge configuration 122 that allows it to be inserted into an opening 124 in the adjustment sleeve 54. The wedge configuration 122 allows the portion 104 of the second clamp bracket 56 to slide into and through the opening 124, and then it is rotated so that the adjustment sleeve 54 is retained on the wedge configuration 122. This rotation also imparts a biasing force to the second spring 53, as the ends 116 and 119 are received in complementary openings 118 and 120 when the second clamp bracket 56 is rotated with respect to the adjustment sleeve 54. The preload force of the second spring 53 causes the required rotational movement of the adjusting sleeve 54 with respect to the first clamping device holder 50.However, the clamping device 41 is configured so that the adjusting sleeve 54 does not slip off the section 104 during rotation due to the biasing force of the second spring 53.

[0054] To secure the first tensioner bracket 50, the adjusting sleeve 54, and the second tensioner bracket 56 together and compress the spring 52, a tool 126 is provided. Tool 126 includes a pair of forks 128 connected by a center portion 130. The two forks 128 are configured to engage the flanges 90 and 92, and the length of the center portion 130 defines an initial compressed state of the spring 52 when the pair of forks 128 engage the flanges 90 and 92.

[0055] Referring now to Figures 15-18C, yet another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Here, and similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 8-14, the adjustment sleeve 54 is rotatably received within the opening 106 of the first clamp support 50, and the adjustment sleeve 54 includes a plurality of step features 110 that engage complementary step features 112 located on the inner surface of the opening 106. Thus, as the adjustment sleeve 54 rotates with respect to the first clamp support 50 in the direction of arrow 114, and as the second clamp support 56 moves away from the first clamp support 50 in the direction of arrows 94 due to the biasing force of the spring 52, the length "L" of the clamp 41 irreversibly increases due to the configuration of the step features 110 and 112 and their interaction with one another.This eliminates the slack in the rope 23.

[0056] To provide the rotational force for the adjustment sleeve 54 in the direction of arrow 114, the spring 52 is a torsion spring, one end 116 of which engages an opening 118 in the second clamp bracket 56, while an opposite end 119 of the spring 52 engages an elongated opening 120 in the adjustment sleeve 54. The adjustment sleeve 54 is also rotatably received on the second clamp bracket 56, while a feature 170 of the second clamp bracket 56 is slidably received in an elongated opening 172 of the first clamp bracket 50.This allows linear movement of the first tensioner bracket 50 relative to the second tensioner bracket 56 while preventing rotational movement relative to each other, so that consequently, the torsional biasing force of the spring 52 causes rotational movement of the adjustment sleeve 54 relative to the first tensioner bracket 50, thus enabling irreversible extension of the tensioner in its length "L" to eliminate slack in the cable 23. Thus, the spring 52 in this embodiment fulfills the dual function of the springs 52 and 53 of the embodiment illustrated at least in Figs. 8-14.

[0057] Referring now to Figures 19A-26, another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Here, and similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 19-22C, the adjustment sleeve 54 is rotatably received within the opening 106 of the first tensioner bracket 50, and the adjustment sleeve 54 includes a plurality of step features 110 that engage complementary step features 112 located on the inner surface of the opening 106. As the adjustment sleeve 54 rotates with respect to the first tensioner bracket 50, as the second tensioner bracket 56 moves away from the first tensioner bracket 50 in the direction of arrows 94 due to the biasing force of the spring 52, the length "L" of the tensioner 41 irreversibly increases due to the configuration of the step features 110 and 112 and their interaction with one another. This eliminates slack in the cable 23.

[0058] To provide the rotational force for the adjustment sleeve 54, the spring 52 is a torsion spring, with one end 116 engaging an opening 118 in the second clamp support 56 and an opposite end 119 of the spring 52 engaging an opening 121 in the seal 91. The seal 91 is disposed adjacent the flange 90 and includes a projection or feature 250 that engages the elongated opening 252 in a surface of the adjustment sleeve 54. The projection or feature 250 slides within the elongated opening 252 as the adjustment sleeve 54 rotates relative to the first clamp support 50. The adjustment sleeve 54 is also rotatably received on the second clamp support 56. This allows linear movement of the second clamp support 56 relative to the first clamp support 50.The adjustment sleeve 54 is also pulled away from the first clamp mount 50 by the second clamp mount 56, and the adjustment sleeve 54 is rotated by the spring 53 until the step features 110 and 112 engage. This simultaneous rotational movement of the adjustment sleeve 54 with respect to the first clamp mount 50 irreversibly increases the length of the clamp 41 due to the configuration of the step features 110 and 112 and their interaction with each other. In addition, as in the previous embodiments, there is a slight amount of movement between the adjustment sleeve 54 and the second clamp mount 56 (shown by arrows 99), provided by cooperating features of the adjustment sleeve 54 and the second clamp mount 56 that allow for a slight adjustment of the length "L" in either direction.As mentioned above, this small range of motion allows for a predetermined amount of sagging before the tensioner 41 irreversibly adjusts to a greater length. For example, this predetermined amount of sagging may be referred to as a deflection to keep a frameless window sealed if one side of the window does not extend to the top, so the tensioner does not irreversibly remove this predetermined amount of sagging.

[0059] Referring now to Figures 27-30, a clamping device 41 according to yet another embodiment is shown. The clamping device 41 includes a first clamp support 50, a spring 52, an adjustment rack 55, and a second clamp support 56. The adjustment rack 55 is slidably mounted to a recessed portion 57 of the second clamp support 56, and the spring 52 provides a biasing force between the first clamp support 50 and the second clamp support 56. The configuration of the recessed portion 57 and the adjustment rack 55 defines a range of movement of the adjustment rack 55 relative to the second clamp support 56 when the second clamp support 56 is partially received within the first clamp support 50.This range of motion allows for a predetermined amount of sagging before the tensioning device 41 irreversibly adjusts to a greater length. As mentioned above, this predetermined amount of sagging may be referred to as a deflection to keep a frameless window sealed if one side of the window does not extend to the top, so that the tensioning device does not irreversibly remove this predetermined amount of sagging.

[0060] The tensioner 41 further includes a spring-biased tongue portion 150 mounted on the first tensioner bracket 50. The spring-biased tongue portion 150 is configured to engage the teeth 152 of the adjustment rack 55 to facilitate an irreversible increase in the length "L" of the tensioner 41 that occurs when an end 154 of the adjustment rack 55 contacts a wall 156 of the recessed area 57. In one non-limiting embodiment, the spring-biased tongue portion 150 has an end 158 received in an opening 160 of the first tensioner bracket 50.

[0061] To maintain the tensioner 41 and the spring 52 in the initial compressed state, as illustrated at least in Fig. 15, a retaining pin 96 is inserted into an opening 98 of the first tensioner bracket 50, and this engages an opening 100 located in the second tensioner bracket 56. Once the tensioner 41 is installed in its desired location, the pin 96 is then removed, and the biasing force of the compressed spring 52 is applied to the first tensioner bracket 50 and the second tensioner bracket 56.

[0062] Thus, when slack exists in a cable 23, as mentioned above, the slack is eliminated when the first tensioner bracket 50 and the second tensioner bracket 56 move away from each other due to the biasing force of the spring 52, and the spring-biased tongue portion 150 attached to the first tensioner bracket 50 engages the teeth 152 of the adjustment rack 55 to allow an irreversible increase in the length "L" of the tensioner 41. It should be noted that the spring-biased tongue portion 150 only slides over the teeth 152 when the end 154 of the adjustment rack 55 contacts a wall 156 of the recessed area 57, after which the spring-biased tongue portion 150 irreversibly moves to the next tooth 152 of the adjustment rack 55.

[0063] Elements of the embodiments have been introduced with either the article "a" or "an". The articles are intended to mean that one or more of the elements are present. The terms "comprising" and "having" and the like are intended to be inclusive, such that there may be additional elements besides those listed. The conjunction "or", when used in conjunction with a list of at least two terms, is intended to mean any term or combination of terms. The term "configured" refers to one or more structural constraints of a device that are necessary for the device to perform the function or operation for which the device is configured.

[0064] The disclosure exemplified herein may be practiced in the absence of any element not expressly disclosed herein.

[0065] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by one skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment described as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. Tensioning device (41) for a window lifter (16) for raising and lowering a window (14) of a vehicle (10), comprising: a first clamping device holder (50); a second clamping device holder (56); a spring (52) disposed between the first clamping device holder (50) and the second clamping device holder (56); and an adjustment sleeve (54) configured to engage features of the first clamp mount (50) when the second clamp mount (56) is moved away from the first clamp mount (50) due to a biasing force of the spring (52).

2. The clamping device (41) of claim 1, wherein the features of the first clamping device mount (50) are a plurality of teeth (80) and the adjustment sleeve (54) includes a plurality of arm portions (74) each flexibly extending from a main body portion (76) of the adjustment sleeve (54), each of the plurality of arm portions (74) including a hook portion (78) located at a distal end thereof.

3. The clamping device (41) of claim 2, wherein the plurality of arm portions (74) are each separated by slots (86) that receive features (88) disposed between the teeth (80).

4. The tensioning device (41) of claim 3, wherein a respective one of the features (88) engages each hook portion (78) of the plurality of arm portions (74) such that the adjustment sleeve (54) can be slid onto the first tensioning device mount (50) and the adjustment sleeve (54) is rotatably received on the first tensioning device mount (50) until the adjustment sleeve (54) is rotated and the slots (86) receive the features (88) and the hook portion (78) engages one of the plurality of teeth, the features (88), when received in the slots (86), preventing rotational movement of the adjustment sleeve (54) with respect to the first tensioning device mount (50).

5. The clamping device (41) of claim 2, wherein the adjustment sleeve (54) is partially received in a cavity (58) of the second clamping device mount (56), and the cavity (58) defines a limit of movement of the plurality of arm portions (74) away from the first clamping device mount (50).

6. The tensioning device (41) of claim 2, wherein the adjustment sleeve (54) is partially received within a cavity (58) of the second tensioning device holder (56), and the adjustment sleeve (54) includes a projection (60) configured to slide within a recess (70) located in an inner surface (72) of the cavity (58) of the second tensioning device holder (56), the projection (60) including a first surface (62) and a second surface (64), the recess (70) including a first surface (71) and a second surface (73), the sliding movement of the projection (60) within the recess (70) defining a predefined range of movement between the second tensioning device holder (56) and the adjustment sleeve (54) before the tensioning device (41) irreversibly adjusts to a greater length.

7. The tensioning device (41) of claim 6, wherein the spring (52) contacts a flange (90) of the first tensioning device mount (50) and a flange (92) of the second tensioning device mount (56) to bias the second tensioning device mount (56) away from the first tensioning device mount (50).

8. The clamping device (41) of claim 1, wherein the adjustment sleeve (54) is rotatably received in an opening (106) of the first clamping device mount (50), and the adjustment sleeve (54) includes a plurality of step features (110) that engage complementary step features (112) disposed on an inner surface of the opening (106).

9. Clamping device (41) according to claim 8, wherein the spring (52) is a first spring and the adjusting sleeve (54) is provided with a rotational preload force by a second spring (53).

10. Tensioning device (41) according to claim 9, wherein the second spring (53) is a torsion spring and one end (116) of the torsion spring (53) engages in an opening (118) in the adjusting sleeve (54) and an opposite end (119) of the second spring (53) engages in an opening (120) in the second tensioning device holder (56).

11. The clamping device (41) of claim 10, wherein a portion (104) of the second clamping device mount (56) has a wedge configuration (122) that allows it to be inserted into and through an opening (124) of the adjusting sleeve (54), and thereafter, rotational movement of the wedge configuration (122) prevents the wedge configuration (122) from sliding back into the opening (124).

12. The clamping device (41) of claim 1, wherein the adjustment sleeve (54) is rotatably received in an opening (106) of the first clamping device mount (50), the adjustment sleeve (54) having a plurality of step features (110) engaging complementary step features (112) disposed on an inner surface of the opening (106), and wherein a rotational force is exerted on the adjustment sleeve (54) by the spring (52).

13. A tensioning device (41) according to claim 12, wherein one end (116) of the spring (52) engages an opening (118) in the second tensioning device holder (56) and an opposite end (119) of the spring (52) engages an elongated opening (120) in the adjusting sleeve (54).

14. The clamping device (41) of claim 13, wherein the adjustment sleeve (54) is further rotatably received on the second clamping device mount (56), while a feature (170) of the second clamping device mount (56) is slidably received in an elongated opening (172) of the first clamping device mount (50), allowing linear movement of the second clamping device mount (56) with respect to the first clamping device mount (50) while preventing rotational movement of the second clamping device mount (56) with respect to the first clamping device mount (50).

15. The tensioner (41) of claim 1, further comprising a seal (91) attached to the first tensioner mount, wherein the adjustment sleeve (54) is rotatably received in an opening (106) of the first tensioner mount (50), the adjustment sleeve (54) having a plurality of step features (110) that engage complementary step features (112) disposed on an inner surface of the opening (106), and wherein the seal includes a feature (250) that slides in an elongated opening (252) in a surface of the adjustment sleeve (54) when the adjustment sleeve (54) rotates with respect to the first tensioner mount (50).

16. Tensioning device (41) for a window lifter (16) for raising and lowering a window (14) of a vehicle (10), comprising: a first clamping device holder (50); a second clamping device holder (56); a spring (52) disposed between the first clamp bracket (50) and the second clamp bracket (56); an adjusting rack (55) slidably mounted on a recessed portion (57) of the second clamping device holder (56); and a spring-biased tongue portion (150) mounted on the first clamp bracket (50), the spring-biased tongue portion (150) configured to engage teeth (152) of the adjustment rack (55) to enable an irreversible increase in the length of the clamp (41) when an end (154) of the adjustment rack (55) contacts a wall (156) of a receiving area (57).

17. The clamping device (41) of claim 16, wherein the spring-biased tongue portion (150) has an end (158) received in an opening (160) of the first clamping device mount (50).

18. Window regulator (16) comprising: at least one guide rail (18); at least one slider (20) slidably mounted on the at least one guide rail (18); at least one cable (23) operatively connected at one end to the at least one slider (20) and at an opposite end to a cable drum (28); at least one cable sleeve (40) surrounding the at least one cable (23), wherein the at least one cable (23) is slidably received in the at least one cable sleeve (40); a motor (32) mounted on a housing (30), the motor (30) being operatively coupled to the cable drum (28) such that operation of the motor (32) rotates the cable drum and causes movement of the at least one slider (20) along the at least one guide rail (18); a tensioning device (41) arranged between the housing (30) and the at least one cable sleeve (40), the tensioning device comprising: a first clamping device holder (50); a second clamping device holder (56); a spring (52) disposed between the first clamping device holder (50) and the second clamping device holder (56); and an adjustment sleeve (54) configured to engage features of the first clamp mount (50) when the second clamp mount (56) is moved away from the first clamp mount (50) due to a biasing force of the spring (52).

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