DRIVE DEVICE AND SLIDING DOOR

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a drive device for a door, in particular a sliding door of a vehicle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a door, in particular a sliding door, with such a drive device.

[0002] Drive devices are known for various applications in the automotive sector. Users of vehicles with sliding doors generally desire that the sliding door move automatically and, if necessary, stop in a partially open position, and that this partially open position is securely held even when the vehicle is on a slope.

[0003] For example, a drive unit for an automatic sliding door is known from DE 10 2014 101 036 B4. The drive unit has an electric drive motor with a gear and a locking device with which a movable door leaf can be locked or unlocked. A rotating disc is arranged on a motor shaft of the drive unit, which cooperates with a braking element arranged on a lever mechanism to lock or unlock the door leaf. The lever mechanism can be actuated by means of a magnet or a spindle drive. A contactless locking device is known from DE 10 2018 117 419 A1.

[0004] DE 20 2004 006 518 U1 discloses a device for driving a motor vehicle door. The device comprises two drive units coupled to each other by means of a switching gear. By actuating a linear displacement component, the switching gear is displaced linearly on a drive shaft of the drive units, so that the door is blocked by moving the switching gear, depending on the direction.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a drive device for a door, in particular a sliding door of a vehicle, which can be stopped in any desired opening position and also securely holds this opening position.

[0006] The object is achieved according to the invention with a drive device having the features of patent claim 1. With regard to the door, the object is achieved according to the invention with the features of patent claim 7.

[0007] Further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent patent claims.

[0008] The drive device according to the invention for a door, in particular a sliding door of a vehicle, comprises at least one drive motor with an output element rotatable about a rotational axis for adjusting the door, and a locking mechanism for locking the output element, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a locking motor with a movable locking element which is adjustable by means of the locking motor between an engaged position in which the locking element engages with the output element, and a disengaged position in which the locking element is disengaged from the output element, wherein in the engaged position an output end of the output element engages in a locking opening of the locking element and in the disengaged position the output end is disengaged from the locking opening.The locking element is spring-biased and has a locking opening which is designed to correspond to a free output end of the output element, wherein in the engaged position the free output end of the output element axially engages in the locking opening of the locking element which is spring-biased in the direction of the free output end, and in the disengaged position the output end is disengaged from the locking opening.

[0009] In the engaged position, the output element, in particular its output end, is coupled to the locking element. In the disengaged position, the output element, in particular its output end, is located, for example, outside the locking opening of the locking element. Thus, in the disengaged position, the output element is decoupled from the locking element.

[0010] The advantages achieved by the invention lie in particular in the fact that such a power-driven locking mechanism, which is activated exclusively to hold the door in an open position, can be variably configured. Furthermore, such a power-driven locking mechanism can be synchronized with the door's power-driven adjustment mechanism. Furthermore, the drive device according to the invention has a small number of components and is compact and cost-effective to manufacture, and can also be retrofitted. Furthermore, the output element and thus the door can be fixed in any desired opening position and thus held securely even on a slope.

[0011] The locking element is configured to engage axially with the output element to lock the output element in the engaged position. For example, locking the output element to hold the door in a desired opening position can be achieved by axially locking or holding the locking element in the output element.

[0012] Furthermore, the locking element can be configured variably. In a first embodiment, the locking element is designed as an adjustable spring plate, in particular as a leaf spring. Alternatively, the locking element can be designed as an adjustable lever, an adjustable locking lever, or, not according to the invention, as an adjustable friction element or as an adjustable pawl, in particular a locking pawl.

[0013] The spring plate, the lever, or the locking lever each has a locking opening, which is designed to correspond to a free output end of the output element and into which the free output end axially engages in the engaged position. Such axial engagement of the free output end in the locking opening of the spring plate, the locking lever, or the lever locks the output element, and thus also secures the door in a corresponding open position. This prevents further adjustment of the door, while the door is securely held in the locked open position. The locking opening can be designed, for example, as a through opening or a blind opening.

[0014] In an embodiment not according to the invention, the pawl is designed as a locking pawl with a lock, which, in the engaged position, engages radially lockingly with a free output end of the output element. The locking mechanism is configured such that one of the various locking elements can be selectively coupled to the locking motor, thus variably enabling either an axial locking engagement or a radial locking engagement.

[0015] For this purpose, the locking motor comprises an output shaft designed as a rotatable threaded spindle (also called a worm shaft) on which a linearly displaceable worm element is movably mounted and coupled to the locking element. The worm element is designed as an adapter and configured to couple, in particular directly or indirectly, to one of the various locking elements, for example, the spring plate, the latch, or the lever.

[0016] Another aspect not according to the invention provides that the pawl has a cam that interacts with an inclined plane of the linearly displaceable worm element. This represents a simple coupling variant for transmitting the linear movement of the worm element to a pivoting or rotary movement of the pawl for radial locking engagement with the free output end.

[0017] For emergency release of the locking element, in one possible embodiment, for example, the lever is releasably mounted on the screw element.

[0018] Further embodiments not according to the invention provide that the locking mechanism enables an alternative radial or axial engagement for locking the output element in the form of a radial or axial frictional engagement. For this purpose, the locking mechanism comprises the locking motor, which interacts with the locking worm element and the locking element, wherein the output end of the output element interacts with the locking worm element in a frictional engagement, either indirectly, e.g., via a lever, or directly. To increase the frictional engagement, the output end of the output element can, for example, have knurling or another suitable contour.

[0019] Such a frictional engagement enables a dampened and safe stopping and holding of the door in the desired opening position in the manner of a friction brake.

[0020] To release the output element, the locking motor is activated and operated in the reverse direction, so that the frictional engagement between the output end of the output element and the locking worm element is released, and the output element is released and freely movable for the adjustment movement of the door. The various locking mechanisms described above disclose various locking elements that allow either an axial locking engagement or a radial locking engagement to lock the output element.

[0021] The door according to the invention is provided with the previously described drive device for adjusting the door between a closed position and an opening position (= open position) and holding it in any opening position by means of the locking mechanism.

[0022] In one possible embodiment, an adjusting means is provided which is adjustable by means of the drive motor in order to adjust the door coupled to the adjusting means, wherein the locking mechanism is designed to stop and securely hold the moving door at any opening position between the closed position and the open position or one of its end positions.

[0023] Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a drive device with a door adjusting mechanism and a locking mechanism, Figures 2A to 2D show schematic views of a drive device with a door adjusting mechanism and a first embodiment for a locking mechanism, Figures 3A to 3D show schematic views of a drive device with a door adjusting mechanism and a second embodiment not according to the invention for a locking mechanism, Figures 4A to 4D show schematic views of a drive device with a door adjusting mechanism and a third embodiment for a locking mechanism, Figures 5A to 5D show schematic views of a drive device with a door adjusting mechanism and a fourth embodiment for a locking mechanism with an emergency release, and Figures 6A to 6C show schematic views of an emergency release for the locking mechanism.

[0024] Corresponding parts are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0025] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a drive device 1 with an adjusting mechanism 2 for a door 3, in particular a sliding door, and a locking mechanism 4.

[0026] The adjustment mechanism 2 serves, in particular, to automatically adjust the door 3, such as a sliding door, between a closed position P1 and an open position P2 or any intermediate position or opening position Pn (= partially open position). The adjustment mechanism 2 is activated exclusively for adjusting the door 3.

[0027] The locking mechanism 4 is activated exclusively to automatically hold the door 3 in one of the opening positions Pn when the door 3 is adjusted. To adjust or move the door 3 again, the locking mechanism 4 is released. The locking mechanism 4 can be designed such that it is not activated in the closed position P1 and / or the other end position, the open position P2, and is only activated to lock when the door 3 is adjusted in one of the opening positions Pn (also called intermediate positions or partially open positions). This ensures that in the event of an accident, the door 3 can also be opened manually in the closed position P1.In addition, when a closed door 3 is opened automatically, the state of the locking mechanism 4 does not have to be queried and deactivated if necessary, since it is always deactivated and thus released in the closed position P1 anyway.

[0028] By means of such a drive device 1, which enables the door 3 to be held in any opening position Pn, additional conventional mechanical door hold-open systems can be eliminated.

[0029] The adjustment mechanism 2 comprises at least one drive motor 2.1 with an output element 2.2 rotatable about a rotation axis D for adjusting the door 3.

[0030] The locking mechanism 4 comprises a locking motor 4.1 with a movable locking element 4.2 for locking the output element 2.2 in one of the opening positions Pn of the door 3.

[0031] The movable locking element 4.2 is adjustable by means of the locking motor 4.1 between an engagement position E1, in which the locking element 4.2 engages with the output element 2.2, and a disengagement position E2, in which the locking element 4.2 is disengaged from the output element 2.2.

[0032] In Figure 1 Two different disengagement positions E2 are shown. Depending on the type and design of the locking element 4.2, it engages axially with the output element 2.2.

[0033] Both the locking mechanism 4 and the adjustment mechanism 2 are thus power-driven by means of associated drives, in particular motors.

[0034] The drive motor 2.1, in particular an electrically operated drive motor 2.1, comprises an output shaft as output element 2.2, which is designed, for example, as a rotatable threaded spindle (also called a worm shaft or worm), which in turn drives a worm gear 2.3. The output element 2.2, as a worm, has a number of helically toothed teeth, with which the teeth of the worm gear 2.3 mesh, or vice versa. Power is transmitted exclusively via sliding processes on the flanks of the teeth. Due to such linear flank contact, greater power can be achieved at higher transmission ratios. In the exemplary embodiment, the worm gear of the adjustment mechanism 2 is designed as a cylindrical worm gear, with the output element 2.2 having a cylindrical shape.

[0035] The worm gear 2.3 is coupled to the door 3 in the usual manner via an actuating means 2.4, for example, a Bowden cable or a rail system, in order to convert the rotational movement of the worm gear 2.3 into an adjusting movement of the door 3. If the drive motor 2.1 is activated, for example, the rotation of the output element 2.2 and the worm gear 2.3 is automatically converted into a translational movement of the door 3 to open or close the door 3.

[0036] The adjusting means 2.4 is adjustable by means of the drive motor 2.1 in order to adjust the door 3 coupled to the adjusting means 2.4, wherein the locking mechanism 4 is designed to stop and securely hold the moving door 3 at any opening position Pn between the closed position P1 and the open position P2.

[0037] The locking motor 4.1 comprises a locking output shaft 4.3, which is designed, for example, as a rotatable threaded spindle (also called a worm shaft) and is axially fixed. A linearly movable locking worm element 4.4 is movably mounted on the locking output shaft 4.3. The locking worm element 4.4 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the locking element 4.2. Alternatively, the locking output shaft 4.3 can also be directly coupled to the locking element 4.2 (not shown in detail).

[0038] As in Figure 1As shown by an arrow F1, the locking element 4.2 is configured to lock and fix the output element 2.2 in the engaged position E1 by means of an axial engagement. An embodiment not according to the invention is shown by an arrow F2, according to which the locking element 4.2 can lock and fix the output element 2.2 in the engaged position E1 by means of a radial engagement into this output element 2.2. In other words: The locking of the output element 2.2 in order to hold the door 3 in a desired opening position Pn can be achieved by an axial or radial locking or holding engagement of the locking element 4.2 in the output element 2.2.

[0039] In addition, the locking element 4.2 can be designed variably.

[0040] Figures 2A to 2Dshow various views of a first embodiment of the locking element 4.2. In this first embodiment, the locking element 4.2 is designed, for example, as an adjustable spring plate 4.2.1 or a leaf spring.

[0041] The locking motor 4.1 comprises the locking output shaft 4.3, which is designed as a rotatable threaded spindle (also called a worm shaft) and on which the linearly displaceable locking worm element 4.4 is movably mounted, which is directly or indirectly coupled to the locking element 4.2. The locking worm element 4.4 is provided with an internal thread that rolls linearly on an external thread of the locking output shaft 4.3. Depending on the rotation of the locking output shaft 4.3, the locking worm element 4.4 is moved linearly back and forth. In the exemplary embodiment, the locking worm element 4.4 is designed as a U-shaped profile with an internal thread on the legs. Alternatively, the locking worm element 4.4 can be designed as a nut or a hollow cylinder with an internal thread (not shown in detail). A further alternative provides for the locking output shaft 4.3 has an internal thread in which a screw with an external thread is mounted in a linearly movable manner as a locking screw element 4.4 (not shown in detail).

[0042] The locking screw element 4.4 is designed as an adapter and is configured to couple with various locking elements 4.2. For example, the locking element 4.2, designed as a spring plate 4.2.1, couples with the locking screw element 4.4 either flatly or in abutting relationship.

[0043] In addition, the spring plate 4.2.1 has a locking opening 4.2.2, which is designed to correspond to a free output end 2.2.1 of the output element 2.2. In the engagement position E1, as shown in the Figures 2A to 2DAs shown, the free output end 2.2.1 engages axially in the locking opening 4.2.2 of the spring plate 4.2.1, so that the output element 2.2 is locked and the door 3 is fixed and held in the corresponding opening position Pn. Thus, further adjustment of the door 3 is prevented, while the door 3 is securely held in the locked opening position Pn. The locking opening 4.2.2 can, for example, be designed as a through opening, as shown. Alternatively, the locking opening 4.2.2 can also be designed as a blind opening.

[0044] As in Figure 2BAs shown, the locking opening 4.2.2 is designed to correspond to the free output end 2.2.1. The free output end 2.2.1 is, for example, rectangular in cross-section. The locking opening 4.2.2 has, for example, two essentially circular segment-shaped sections, the chords of which run through the circle center, with the length of the chords essentially corresponding to the width of the free output end 2.2.1. Due to the wide circular arc, the free output end 2.2.1 can easily engage in the locking opening 4.2.2 when locked by the locking element 4.2.

[0045] To unlock the output element 2.2 and thus release the locking element 4.2 from the output element 2.2 from the engaged position E1 into the disengaged position E2, the locking element 4.2, in particular the spring plate 4.2.1, is moved away from the free output end 2.2.1 by means of the activated locking motor 4.1 through the linear movement of the locking worm element 4.4 or the locking output shaft 4.3 itself, until the free output end 2.2.1 is disengaged from the locking opening 4.2.2.

[0046] The drive motor 2.1 is then activated, which now activates the released output element 2.2, allowing the door to be moved into the desired position via the worm gear 2.3.

[0047] If the drive motor 2.1 is stopped in any door position, the locking motor 4.1 moves the locking worm element 4.4 back to its starting position towards the free output end 2.2.1. If, due to the contour of the free output end 2.2.1 and the corresponding contour of the locking opening 4.2.2 in the locking element 4.2, engagement does not occur immediately, despite the spring-loaded locking element 4.2 moving towards the free output end 2.2.1, this will occur as soon as there is an intentional or unintentional movement on the door 3, e.g., when the vehicle is on a slope. Because the door 3 is coupled in motion to the output element 2.2 via the worm gear 2.3, the output element 2.2 rotates and the free output end 2.2.1 engages, due to the spring preload, in the locking opening 4.2.2 of the locking element 4.2.In particular, in the case of a friction connection, this requires no movement at all or, for example, in the case of a form-fitting or force-fitting connection, only a small movement on the door 3 is required, for example a small adjustment path of the door 3 of approximately 3 mm, in the manner of a freewheel FL.

[0048] Such a freewheel FL of a few millimeters for "catching" the output element 2.2 relative to the locking element 4.2 is provided and designed accordingly in all embodiments described here.

[0049] The respective locking element 4.2 (40.2, 400.2, or 4000.2) is spring-loaded in all embodiments, either as the spring plate 4.2.1 itself, as in this case, or via a return element 6 in the form of a spring. Otherwise, locking the output element 2.2 and thus holding the door 3 in any desired position would not be possible.

[0050] The respective locking element 4.2 (40.2 ( Figures 3A to 3D ), 400.2 ( Figures 4A to 4D ) or 4000.2 ( Figures 5A to 6C )) is also constructed in several parts. Furthermore, the respective locking element 4.2 (40.2, 400.2 or 4000.2) is separated or formed separately from the associated locking screw element 4.4 (40.4, 4000.4). The respective locking element 4.2 (40.2, 400.2 or 4000.2) and the associated locking screw element 4.4 (40.4 or 4000.4) can be coupled for movement. In the embodiment according to Figures 2A to 4D for example, by frictionally engaging surfaces. Alternatively, the respective locking element 400.2 or 4000.2 and the associated locking screw element 40.4 or 4000.4 can be coupled to or into each other through frictional or force-locking engagement of contours or knurls. The respective locking element 4.2 (40.2, 400.2 or 4000.2) and the associated locking screw element 4.4 (40.4 or 4000.4) are always designed separately from each other as separate components.

[0051] The output element 2.2 is unlocked again as described above.

[0052] Such a locking engagement of the free output end 2.2.1 in the locking opening 4.2.2 represents a safe and secure locking engagement, so that the door 3 is securely held in the desired opening position Pn even on a slope.

[0053] The locking worm element 4.4 engages a free end 4.2.3 of the locking element 4.2 to move it from the engaged position E1 to the disengaged position E2 or vice versa.

[0054] The locking element 4.2 is, for example, fastened to a fixed door component or vehicle component in a manner not shown in detail, with the fixed end 4.2.4 opposite the free end 4.2.3. The locking element 4.2, designed as a spring plate 4.2.1, is relaxed in the engagement position E1 and rests with the free end 4.2.3 against the locking worm element 4.4.

[0055] The locking opening 4.2.2 is, for example, inserted into the locking element 4.2 centrally between the free end 4.2.3 and the opposite fixed end 4.2.4.

[0056] The output element 2.2 can be designed as a single piece, a threaded spindle or a worm shaft with integrated threads. Alternatively, the output element 2.2 can be designed as a two-piece motor shaft 2.2.2 and a worm 2.2.3 connected to it with threads, as shown in Figures 2C and 2D shown.

[0057] The illustrated embodiment depicts a multi-part locking mechanism 4 with the output shaft 4.3 and the locking worm element 4.4 arranged thereon. The output shaft 4.3 of the locking motor 4.1 can also be directly coupled to the locking element 4.2 to unlock or lock it (not shown in detail). Furthermore, a freewheel FL is provided for catching the output element 2.2 in the locking element 4.2, as described above.

[0058] Figures 3A to 3D show schematic views of a drive device 1 with the door adjustment mechanism 2 and a second embodiment, not according to the invention, for a locking mechanism 40.

[0059] The door adjustment mechanism 2 is unchanged compared to the embodiment according to Figures 2A to 2D trained.

[0060] The locking mechanism 40 comprises an adjustable pawl 40.2.1 instead of the spring plate 4.2.1 as the locking element 40.2. The locking motor 4.1 is provided with the locking output shaft 4.3 and is analogous to the embodiment according to Figures 2A to 2D The locking screw element 40.4 is essentially identical to the locking screw element 40.4. The locking screw element 40.4 additionally includes an inclined or slanted sliding surface 40.4.1 or plane on its outer side.

[0061] According to an embodiment not according to the invention, the pawl 40.2.1 is designed, for example, as a locking or locking pawl with a lock 40.2.2, which, in the engagement position E1, engages radially lockingly with a free output end 2.2.1 of the output element 2.2. The pawl 40.2.1 has a cam 40.2.3 that interacts with the inclined sliding surface 40.4.1 of the linearly displaceable locking worm element 40.4. When the locking motor 4.1 is activated, the cam 40.2.3 slides along the inclined sliding surface 40.4.1, so that the linear movement of the locking worm element 40.4 is converted into a pivoting or rotating movement of the pawl 40.2.1 for a radial locking engagement of the lock 40.2.2 into the free output end 2.2.1 or for a radial release of the lock 40.2.2 from the free output end 2.2.1.

[0062] The free output end 2.2.1 is slightly modified for this purpose. The free output end 2.2.1 includes, for example, locking receptacles 2.2.4, into which the lock 40.2.2 engages. The locking receptacles 2.2.4 are designed such that the lock 40.2.2 can engage with some play.

[0063] Figures 4A to 4D show schematic views of a drive device 1 with the door adjustment mechanism 2 and a third embodiment for a locking mechanism 400. The operation of the locking mechanism 400 is analogous to the locking mechanism 4 according to Figures 2A to 2D . To avoid repetition, please refer to the description above.

[0064] Instead of the spring plate 4.2.1, which is fixed on one side, the locking element 400.2 is designed as an adjustable lever 400.2.1. Similar to the spring plate 4.2.1, the lever 400.2.1 has a free end 400.2.3, a central locking opening 400.2.2, and a fixed end 400.2.4 that is pivotally mounted on a vehicle component or a door component. The free end 400.2.3 is angled to support itself on the coupling surface of the locking screw element 4.4.

[0065] Figures 5A to 5D show schematic views of the drive device 1 with the door adjustment mechanism 2 and a fourth embodiment for a locking mechanism 4000 with an emergency release 5.

[0066] The function of the locking mechanism 4000 is analogous to the locking mechanism 4 according to Figures 2A to 2D . To avoid repetition, please refer to the description above.

[0067] Instead of the spring plate 4.2.1, which is fixed on one side, the locking element 4000.2 is designed as an adjustable locking lever 4000.2.1. Similar to the spring plate 4.2.1 or lever 4000.2.1, the lever 4000.2.1 has a free end 4000.2.3, a central locking opening 4000.2.2, and a fixed end 4000.2.4, which is pivotally mounted on a vehicle component or a door component. Additionally, a return element 6, in particular a return spring, can be arranged on the fixed end 4000.2.4. The free end 4000.2.3 is angled to support itself on the locking worm element 4000.4.

[0068] The locking opening 4000.2.2 is designed, for example, as a blind hole. The output element 2.2 is designed at its free output end 2.2.1 pointing in the direction of the locking opening 4000.2.2 to correspond to the locking opening 4000.2.2, so that the output end 2.2.1 can engage therein to lock the drive device 1, as shown in the sectional view in Figure 5D is shown.

[0069] Figure 5B shows the locking mechanism 4000 in perspective.

[0070] Figure 5C shows the locking worm gear element 4000.4 in the zero position. The free output end 2.2.1 is located in the locking element 4000.2. The door 3 is held.

[0071] The free end 4000.2.3 of the locking element 4000.2 has a receptacle 4000.5 in which a free, front end of the locking screw element 4000.4 is arranged. The free, front end of the locking screw element 4000.4 is mounted in the receptacle 4000.5 such that the locking element 4000.2 can be moved, in particular pivoted, relative to the locking screw element 4000.4. The receptacle 4000.5 has, for example, a shape corresponding to the free, front end of the locking screw element 4000.4. For example, the receptacle 4000.5 has a V-shape or a round shape.

[0072] To form the emergency release 5, the free end 4000.2.3 of the locking lever 4000.2.1 is fork-shaped. This allows the locking lever 4000.2.1 to be releasably mounted on the locking screw element 4000.4.

[0073] The emergency release 5 for manual operation of the door 3 comprises a manual emergency operating element 5.1 and a mechanical emergency lock 5.2.

[0074] The free end 4000.2.3 of the locking element 4000.2 forms part of the emergency release 5.

[0075] A projection 4000.2.5 protrudes from the free end 4000.2.3 of the locking element 4000.2, forming the manual emergency actuation element 5.1. The manual emergency actuation element 5.1 comprises, for example, a holder 5.1.1 for a Bowden cable or a handle or another manual actuation unit. By actuating the Bowden cable or handle, the emergency actuation element 5.1 is actuated, in particular pivoted about a rotational axis D of the locking element 4000.2. The emergency actuation 5 is designed and arranged such that when the emergency actuation element 5.1 moves, in particular pivots, in a direction away from the output element 2.2, the emergency lock 5.2 locks.

[0076] For this purpose, the emergency lock 5.2 comprises corresponding, in particular releasable, locking elements 5.2.1, 5.2.2, which engage in a releasable locking engagement upon emergency release of the output element 2.2. One of the locking elements 5.2.1 is arranged or formed on the locking worm element 4000.4. The other locking element 5.2.2 is arranged or formed on the locking element 4000.2.

[0077] For example, one locking element 5.2.1 on the locking screw element 4000.4 is designed as at least one protruding locking pin or bolt. The locking screw element 4000.4 can, for example, have two or more, in particular symmetrically distributed, protruding locking pins or bolts.

[0078] The other locking element 5.2.2 of the locking element 4000.2 is designed as a locking receptacle 5.2.3, in particular a locking groove, or a locking stop. The locking element 4000.2 comprises, for example, at its free end 4000.2.3 as a locking element 5.2.2, at least one U-shaped locking receptacle 5.2.3, in which the corresponding locking element 5.2.1 of the locking screw element 4000.4 is movably arranged.

[0079] During the actuation, in particular a pivoting, of the emergency actuating element 5.1 in the direction away from the output element 2.2, the locking element 4000.2 is guided by means of the locking element 5.2.1 guided in the locking receptacle 5.2.3. The locking receptacle 5.2.3 has locking projections 5.2.4, over which the locking element 5.2.1 is guided until an emergency actuating position N1 of the locking element 4000.2 is reached and the emergency lock 5.2 is locked in this emergency actuating position N1, shown in Figure 6B .This ensures that the locking element 4000.2 is locked against moving back, for example by means of the return element 6, into the engagement position E1.

[0080] In the exemplary embodiment, the locking element 4000.2 comprises at its free end 4000.2.3 two locking elements 5.2.2 in the form of locking receptacles 5.2.3 for the corresponding two locking elements 5.2.1 of the locking screw element 4000.4.

[0081] Figures 6A to 6C show the sequence of the emergency release 5 for manual operation of the door 3 in detail.

[0082] Figure 6A shows the emergency actuating element 5.1 in its rest position N0 (also called initial or non-actuated position or zero position), in which the emergency lock 5.2 is not activated and does not lock.

[0083] The locking element 5.2.1 protruding from the locking screw element 4000.4 is arranged freely movable in the locking holder 5.2.3.

[0084] The free output end 2.2.1 rests against the locking element 4000.2 and is not locked. The next time the door is operated, the free output end 2.2.1 falls into the locking element 4000.2 according to the freewheel FL described above.

[0085] Figure 6B shows the emergency actuating element 5.1 in its emergency actuating position N1 (also called operating or actuated position), in which the emergency lock 5.2 blocks the locking element 4000.2 against falling back into the engaged position E1.

[0086] In the emergency actuation position N1, the emergency actuation element 5.1 is moved away from the output element 2.2 according to arrow F3 into a position such that the locking element 5.2.1 is moved over the locking projection 5.2.4, thus locking the emergency lock 5.2. The locking force of the emergency lock 5.2 is designed to be greater than the return force of the return element 6.

[0087] In the emergency actuation position N1, the locking element 4000.2 is disengaged from the output element 2.2. The emergency actuation position N1 can correspond to or exceed the disengaged position E2 of the locking element 4000.2.

[0088] Figure 6C shows the release of the emergency lock 5.2 in order to move the door 3 again by motor and to hold it in any desired opening position Pn by motor.

[0089] To unlock the emergency lock 5.2, the locking motor 4.1 is activated so that the locking screw element 4000.4 extends according to arrow F4 until the locking element(s) 5.2.1 attached to this locking screw element 4000.4 are moved back out of the emergency lock 5.2 into the locking holder 5.2.3.

[0090] When the fixed screw element 4000.4 is retracted or retracted according to arrow F5, the locking element 4000.2 can then be moved back into the engagement position E1 with the output element 2.2 or into the disengagement position E2 depending on the activation of the locking motor 4.1.

[0091] Figure 6C shows the disengaged position E2. The locking worm gear element 4000.4 is in an electrically operated position (= extended position). The free output end 2.2.1 is located in front of the locking element 4000.2. The door 3 can be operated in any direction. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0092] 1 Drive device 2 Adjustment mechanism 2.1 Drive motor 2.2 Output element 2.2.1 Free output end 2.2.2 Motor shaft 2.2.3 Worm 2.2.4 Locking receptacle 2.3 Worm wheel 2.4 Adjusting means 3 Door 4, 40, 400, 4000 Locking mechanism 4.1 Locking motor 4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2 Locking element 4.2.1 Spring plate 4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2 Locking opening 4.2.3, 400.2.3, 4000.2.3 Free end 4.2.4, 400.2.4, 4000.2.4 Fixed end 4000.2.5Protrusion 40.2.1Pawl 40.2.2Lock 40.2.3Cam 400.2.1Lever 4000.2.1Locking lever 4.3Locking output shaft 4.4, 40.4, 4000.4Locking worm element 40.4.1Inclined sliding surface 4000.5Receptacle 5Emergency release 5.1Emergency operating element 5.1.1Holder 5.2Emergency lock 5.2.1, 5.2.2Locking element 5.2.3Locking receiver 5.2.4Locking projection 6Reset element DRotation axis E1Engagement position E2Disengagement position FLFreewheel N0Rest position N1Emergency operation position F1Arrow (direction of movement for axial engagement position) F2Arrow (direction of movement for radial engagement position) F3 to F5Arrow P1Closed position P2Open position PnOpening position (partially open position)

Claims

1. Drive device (1) for a door (3), in particular a sliding door of a vehicle, comprising at least: - a drive motor (2.1) with an output element (2.2) which rotates about a rotational axis (D) to adjust the door (3) between a closed position (P1) and an open position (P2), and - a locking mechanism (4, 40, 400, 4000) for locking the output element (2.2), wherein the locking mechanism (4, 40, 400, 4000) comprises a locking motor (4.1) having a movable locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2) which is adjustable by means of the locking motor (4.1) between an engaging position (E1), in which the locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2) engages with the output element (2.2), and an out-of-engagement position (E2), in which the locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2) is out of engagement with the output element (2.2), characterized in that the locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2) is spring-loaded as an adjustable spring plate (4.2.1) or is formed via a restoring element (6) in the form of a spring or as an adjustable lever (400.2.1) or an adjustable locking lever (4000.2.1), and has a locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2) which is formed correspondingly with respect to a free output end (2.2.1) of the output element (2.2), wherein, in the engaging position (E1), the free output end (2.2.1) of the output element (2.2) engages axially into the locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2) of the locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2) which is spring-loaded in the direction of the free output end (2.2.1), and, in the out-of-engagement position (E2), the output end (2.2.1) is out of engagement with the locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2).

2. Drive device (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2) has a free end (4.2.3, 400.2.3, 4000.2.3), an opposite fixed end (4.2.4, 400.2.4, 4000.2.4) and a central locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2).

3. Drive device (1) according to either of the preceding claims, wherein the locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2) is designed as a through opening or blind opening.

4. Drive device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the free output end (2.2.1) is rectangular in cross section, and the locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2) has two substantially circular segment-shaped portions, the circle chords of which run through a circle centre point, wherein a length of the circle chords corresponds to a width of the free output end (2.2.1).

5. Drive device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking motor (4.1) comprises a locking output shaft (4.3) which is designed as a rotatable threaded spindle and on which a linearly displaceable locking screw element (4.4, 40.4, 4000.4) is movably mounted, which is coupled to the locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2).

6. Drive device (1) according to Claim 5, wherein the locking lever (4000.2.1) is releasably mounted on the locking screw element (4000.4).

7. Door (3) with a drive device (1) according to one of the preceding claims for adjusting the door (3) between a closed position (P1) and an open position (P2).

8. Door (3) according to Claim 7, wherein an actuating means (2.4) is provided which is adjustable by means of the drive motor (2.1) in order to adjust the door (3) coupled to the actuating means (2.4), wherein the locking mechanism (4, 40, 400, 4000) is configured to stop and hold the moving door (3) at any opening position (Pn) between the closed position (P1) and the open position (P2) or one of its end positions.

9. Door (3) according to Claim 7 or 8, wherein, in the case of a form-fit or force-fit connection between the free output end (2.2.1) and the locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2), a freewheel (FL) of a few millimetres for catching the output element (2.2) relative to the locking element (4.2, 40.2, 400.2, 4000.2) is provided, wherein, in the case of a lack of immediate engagement of the free output end (2.2.1) and the locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2), an intentional or unintentional movement of the door (3) causes an engagement of the free output end (2.2.1) and the locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2), wherein the door (3) is motioncoupled via a worm gear (2.3) to the output element (2.2), wherein a rotational movement of the output element (2.2) occurs, and the free output end (2.2.1), as a result of the spring preload, engages into the locking opening (4.2.2, 400.2.2, 4000.2.2).