Mounting device for a sliding door of a motor vehicle

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a sliding door system for a motor vehicle, the sliding door system comprising a device for holding the door in the open position. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle comprising such a sliding door system. Prior art

[0002] To access the passenger compartment or cargo area of ​​a motor vehicle, sliding doors are commonly used. The integration of sliding doors into a motor vehicle typically relies on a sliding door system comprising an external rail extending longitudinally approximately halfway up the vehicle body. This external rail works in conjunction with rollers attached to the door to form a guide system that moves the door between its closed and open positions. This guide system ensures that the door remains open without the risk of sagging or being torn off. The guide system also incorporates a stop that defines the door's open position. While existing sliding door systems provide adequate guidance and support for the door, the presence of the external rail detracts from the vehicle's exterior aesthetics.Such a sliding door system is known from US 8 282 156 B1. Presentation of the invention

[0003] The aim of the invention is to provide a sliding door system that remedies the above disadvantages and improves upon known sliding door systems of the prior art.

[0004] More specifically, a first object of the invention is a sliding door system without an external rail that is both reliable and safe to use. Summary of the invention

[0005] The invention relates to a sliding door system for a motor vehicle comprising a body element, a sliding door between an open position and a closed position relative to the body element, and a device for holding the door when it is in the open position. the holding device comprising: a first mechanism comprising a first fixed part and a first movable part, the first fixed part being fixed to the box element and the first movable part being articulated relative to the first fixed part between a retracted position against the box element and a deployed position, the first movable part comprising a first interlocking surface, a first actuating means for the first mechanism configured such that the first movable part is in the retracted position when the door is in the closed position, and such that the first movable part is in the deployed position when the door is in the open position, a second mechanism comprising a second fixed part and a second movable part, the second fixed part being fixed to the door and the second movable part being articulated relative to the second fixed part between a retracted position against the door and a deployed position,the second moving part comprising a second interlocking surface, a second actuating means for the second mechanism configured such that the second moving part is in the retracted position when the door is closed, and such that the second moving part is in the deployed position when the door is open, the first interlocking surface cooperating with the second interlocking surface when the door is open to hold the door.

[0006] The first movable part can be articulated in rotation about the first fixed part along an axis of rotation that is substantially vertical. The second movable part can be articulated in rotation about the second fixed part along an axis of rotation that is substantially vertical.

[0007] The first mechanism may include a first return means tending to move the first moving part from its retracted position to its deployed position, and the first moving part may include a means of support against the door, in particular a roller, the movement of the door from its open position to its closed position exerting a pressure on said support means tending to move the first moving part from its deployed position to its retracted position.

[0008] The first mechanism may include a means for automatically locking the first moving part in the deployed position, and a means for unlocking the first moving part, the unlocking means including a lever configured to disable the automatic locking means, the door including a bearing surface configured to actuate said lever when the door moves from its open position to its closed position.

[0009] The sliding door system may further include a door guide device between its closed and open positions, the guide device comprising a third mechanism configured to be actuated by a movement of the door between its closed and open positions, the third mechanism being connected by a cable to the second moving part, the third mechanism being configured so that a movement of the door from its closed position to its open position causes a variation in the tension of said cable, the second mechanism being configured so that the variation in cable tension causes the second moving part to move from its retracted position to its deployed position.

[0010] The third mechanism may include: a shuttle in a sliding connection with the door and a cable winding support fixed by a pivot connection to the door, the cable winding support being fixed to a first end of the cable, the shuttle being configured so as to rotate the cable winding support when the door moves from its closed position to its open position so as to exert tension on the first end of the cable, or a cylinder comprising a body fixed to the door and a piston movable relative to the body, the piston being fixed to a first end of the cable, the piston being configured to be moved within the body when the door moves from its closed position to its open position so as to exert pressure on the first end of the cable.

[0011] The box element may include a recess in which the door sits when in the closed position, the first mechanism being positioned at the rear of the recess approximately halfway up the recess, the second mechanism being positioned against an inner face of the door and at the same height as the first mechanism, the guide device being positioned at a lower edge of the door.

[0012] The box element may include a recess in which the door sits when in the closed position, and the second actuation means may be configured so that the second moving part moves from its retracted position to its deployed position only after the second mechanism has passed through said recess when the door moves from its closed position to its open position.

[0013] The door can be moved from its closed position to its open position according to a movement comprising a first phase followed by a second phase, the first phase of the movement comprising a transverse displacement of the door relative to the body element, and the second phase of the movement comprising a longitudinal translation of the door relative to the body element. the first actuation means being configured so that the first moving part moves from its retracted position to its deployed position during the first phase of door movement, and / or the second actuation means being configured so that the second moving part moves from its retracted position to its deployed position during the second phase of door movement.

[0014] The first interlocking surface and the second interlocking surface can respectively form a male part and a female part that fit into each other when the door is in the open position.

[0015] The invention also relates to a motor vehicle, comprising a sliding door system as defined above. Presentation of the figures

[0016] These objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description of two particular embodiments, given by way of non-limiting example, in relation to the accompanying figures, among which: There figure 1 is a schematic side view of a motor vehicle equipped with a sliding door system according to an embodiment of the invention, with one door of the vehicle in the closed position. figure 2 This is a schematic side view of the vehicle, with the door in the open position. figure 3This is a view in a transverse and vertical plane of the sliding door system, with the door in the open position. figure 4 This is a perspective view of an interior face of the vehicle door, a guide device, and a device for holding the sliding door system, with the door in the closed position. figure 5 is a view of the same set as that of the figure 4 The door being in a first intermediate position between its closed and open positions. figure 6 is a view of the same set as that of the figures 4 And 5 the door being in a second intermediate position between its closed and open positions, the door being closer to the open position than on the figure 5 . There figure 7 A perspective view of the guiding and holding devices, with the door in a third, intermediate position between its closed and open positions. figure 8 A perspective view of the guiding and holding devices, with the door in its open position. figure 9 is a perspective view of a first mechanism of the restraint system. The Figure 10 This is a side view of the first mechanism, with the door in the closed position. figure 11 This is a side view of the first mechanism, with the door in the open position. figure 12 This is a side view of the second mechanism, with the door in the closed position. figure 13 A side view of the second mechanism, with the door in a fourth, intermediate position between its closed and open positions. figure 14 This is a side view of the second mechanism, with the door in the open position. figure 15 is a side view of the third mechanism. figure 16This is a top view of the guiding and holding device, with the door in a fifth intermediate position between its closed and open positions. figure 17 This is a top view of the guiding and holding device, with the door in a sixth intermediate position between its closed and open positions. figure 18 is a view of the guiding device and the holding device according to a second embodiment of the invention. figure 19 is a side cross-sectional view of a second mechanism of the retaining device according to the second embodiment of the invention, the door being in the open position. Detailed description

[0017] THE Figures 1 And 2schematically illustrate a motor vehicle V comprising a sliding door system 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The vehicle V may, in particular, be a passenger car, a commercial vehicle, a truck, or even a bus. It comprises a body forming a rigid structure of the vehicle and defining an interior volume of the vehicle. This interior volume may, for example, be a passenger compartment or a cargo area of ​​the vehicle. The sliding door system 1 comprises at least one body element 2 provided with an opening, or embrasure 3, and a door 4 that slides reversibly relative to the body element 2 between an open position and a closed position. On the figure 1 Gate 4 is shown in the closed position. On the figure 2 , door 4 is shown in the open position.

[0018] In this document, the X-axis represents the longitudinal axis of vehicle V. When moving forward in a straight line, the vehicle progresses from rear to front in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis. The X-axis is oriented from the front to the rear of the vehicle, that is, in the direction of reverse. The Y-axis represents the transverse axis of the vehicle. The Y-axis is oriented from left to right, with left and right defined from the perspective of a driver of the vehicle. The Z-axis represents the axis perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis. The vehicle is assumed to be resting on a horizontal surface. The Z-axis is a vertical axis, oriented from bottom to top. The X, Y, and Z axes form an orthogonal coordinate system.

[0019] The enumerative adjectives ("first", "second", etc.) appearing in this document do not characterize any order relationship between the different objects to which they refer. They simply aim to distinguish and identify these different objects.

[0020] Door 4 is a side door of the vehicle, specifically a rear side door. It generally moves from front to back, from its closed position to its open position. In the closed position, door 4 fits into and covers the opening 3. Note that on the figure 1 that the opening 3 also extends to the front of the door 4 when the latter is in the closed position. This front part of the opening is intended to be covered by a front door of the vehicle. The vehicle V may optionally include a central pillar extending vertically in the middle of the opening, delimiting two separate openings.

[0021] Furthermore, in the closed position, a rear portion of door 4 also covers a portion 5 of body element 2. The portion 5 of the body element covered by door 4 in the closed position is located approximately above a rear wheel arch of the vehicle. Door 4 includes, in its upper half, a window 6 that extends over portion 5 of the body element. In the open position, a front edge of the door is located approximately at the level of the rear edge of the door opening 3, or slightly in front of the rear edge of the door opening 3, specifically at the level of a front edge of portion 5 of body element 2.

[0022] The sliding door system 1 includes a guide device 7 for the movement of the door between its closed and open positions. The guide device 7 is positioned approximately at the level of a lower edge of the door 4. The guide device 7 is capable of supporting the weight of the door 4 and guiding its movement between its closed and open positions. This guide device 7, which will be described in more detail later, may include a means for automatically opening and closing the door, such as an electric motor.

[0023] Door 4 moves from its closed position to its open position in a process comprising a first phase followed by a second phase. The first phase of the movement may include a transverse displacement of door 4 relative to the body element 2. During this first phase, the door may be tilted relative to its orientation in the closed position by a first rotation around a vertical axis. This first rotation is followed by a second rotation around a vertical axis, in the opposite direction to the first rotation, so as to restore an orientation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. At the end of the first phase, door 4 is offset relative to the opening 3. The second phase of the movement may include a longitudinal translation of the door backward relative to the body element.The orientation of the door in the open and closed positions can be substantially identical and parallel to the longitudinal axis. The door closes by following, in the opposite direction, a trajectory identical to the opening trajectory.

[0024] The sliding door system 1 also includes a holding device 8 for the door when it is in the open position. The holding device 8 is configured to hold the door 4 when it is open. The holding device 8 can also help to hold the door a few centimeters from its open position, which is hereafter referred to as the quasi-open position. However, the holding device 8 is not configured to hold the door in its closed position or during its movement between its closed and open or quasi-open positions. The holding device 8 mainly comprises a first mechanism 9 and a second mechanism 10. The first mechanism 9 is integral with the frame element 2, and the second mechanism is integral with the door 4. More precisely, the first mechanism 9 is positioned at the rear of the opening 3, approximately halfway up the opening 3.The second mechanism 10 is positioned against an inner face of the door and at the same height as the first mechanism 9. Specifically, the second mechanism 10 is positioned under the glass pane 6 of the door 4. As we will see later, these two mechanisms 9 and 10 are configured to deploy during the opening of the door 4 and to work together when the door is in the open or nearly open position to hold it open. The cooperation of these two mechanisms provides robust support for the door in the open position, in addition to the support provided by the guide device 7.

[0025] There figure 3Figure 1 illustrates the sliding door system 1 from a view along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, with the door 4 in the open position. The retaining device 8 acts as a longitudinal stop for the door in the open position. It also provides a transverse restraint for the door relative to the frame element. The retaining device 8 thus prevents the door from being torn off due to a transverse force (represented by arrow F1 on the figure). figure 3 ) exerted on the top of the door when it is in the open position. Indeed, since the guide device 7 is positioned at the level of a lower edge of the door, this guide device could be damaged as a result of a transverse force exerted on the top of the door. Preferably, the distance separating the guide device 7 from the retaining device 8 along the vertical axis can be greater than or equal to 50 cm, or even greater than or equal to 70 cm.

[0026] The figure 4Figure 4 illustrates the door in the closed position, as well as the guide device 7 and the two mechanisms 9 and 10. When the door is closed, the first mechanism 9 retracts into a recess 11 formed in the door. The recess 11 is located at a rear edge of the door and has a shape that closely matches the shape of the first mechanism 9. The recess 11 is formed in a portion 12 of the door 4 that covers the portion 5 of the body element. The first mechanism is thus inaccessible when the door is closed. The second mechanism 10 also retracts when the door is closed. The second mechanism is then concealed within a trim panel 13 of the door.In its retracted position, the second mechanism 10 is flush with the trim panel 13 so that it blends seamlessly with the panel into which it is integrated, thus preserving the aesthetics of the vehicle's interior. The second mechanism 10 is therefore also inaccessible to any vehicle passenger, preventing any risk of pinching.

[0027] As will be explained in more detail later, the retaining device 8 also includes a first actuation means 14 for the first mechanism 9 and a second actuation means 15 for the second mechanism 10. The actuation means 14 and 15 are configured so that the first and second mechanisms deploy during the opening of the door. The deployed position of the first mechanism is illustrated in the figure 5 and on the figure 6 The deployed position of the second mechanism is illustrated on the figure 6The actuation means 14 and 15 are configured so that the first mechanism deploys before the second mechanism during the opening of the door.

[0028] There figure 7illustrates in more detail the guide device 7 and the retaining device 8. The guide device 7 comprises a mechanism including two articulated arms 16, 17, or pantograph, capable of supporting the weight of the door 4 during its movement between its closed and open positions. A first arm 16 includes a first end fixed to the door by a first pivot joint about a first vertical axis Z1. The first arm 16 includes a second end fixed to the body element by a first sliding pivot joint. The first sliding pivot joint includes a pivot joint about a second vertical axis Z2 and a sliding joint about a first longitudinal axis X1. This sliding joint can be obtained by a set of rollers 20 (visible on the figures 4 to 6) cooperating with a rail fixed to the body element. A second arm 17 includes a first end fixed to the door by a second sliding pivot means. The second sliding pivot means includes a pivot joint about a third axis of rotation Z3 and a sliding joint about a second longitudinal axis X2. This sliding joint can also be obtained by a set of rollers cooperating with a rail 22 extending longitudinally at the lower edge of the door. The second arm 17 includes a second end fixed to the body element by a second pivot means about a fourth vertical axis Z4.

[0029] The first mechanism 9 is illustrated in more detail on the figures 9 to 11It comprises a first fixed part 24 and a first movable part 25. The first fixed part 24 is fixed to the body element 2. The first movable part 25 is articulated relative to the first fixed part 24 between a retracted position against the body element (illustrated in the Figure 10 ), and a deployed position (illustrated on the figure 11), in which it protrudes from the body element. In particular, the first moving part is articulated for rotation about the first fixed part along a fifth axis of rotation Z5, which is substantially vertical. The range of rotation of the first moving part 25 between its retracted and extended positions can be, for example, between 45° and 90°. The first mechanism 9 also includes a stop means 39 defining the extended position of the first moving part 25. This stop means 39 can be formed by a tab integral with the first fixed part 24 and adapted to bear against the first moving part 25. According to an alternative embodiment, the first moving part 25 could be linked to the first fixed part 24 by another type of kinematic connection, for example, a sliding connection.

[0030] The first fixed part 24 comprises a support, for example made of bent sheet metal, which is screwed to the body element. The support carries a shaft 26 to which the first moving part is fixed by a pivot joint. The first moving part 25, or movable arm 25, has an elongated shape and is provided with openings at one end for the passage of the shaft 26. The other end of the first moving part 25 comprises a first interlocking surface 28 for cooperating with the second mechanism 10. The first interlocking surface 28 may, for example, have a truncated pyramid shape. Alternatively, it could have any other shape, such as a frustoconical shape or a truncated tetrahedral shape. The interlocking surface may be made, for example, of steel or aluminum, or alternatively of a shock-absorbing material such as plastic or rubber.Preferably the first interlocking surface includes a pointed shape (i.e. a shape whose cross-section decreases towards its end), so as to facilitate its cooperation with the second mechanism 10. The first interlocking surface 28 may be salient in the longitudinal direction when the first fixed part 25 is in the deployed position.

[0031] The first actuation means 14 is configured such that the first moving part 25 is in the retracted position when the door is closed, and such that the first moving part 25 is in the extended position when the door is open. In this case, the first actuation means 14 is formed by a first return means 29 that moves the first moving part 25 from its retracted position to its extended position. The first return means 29 can be formed by a torsion spring having one end bearing on the first fixed part 24 and the other end bearing on the first moving part 25. In the absence of any force exerted by the door on the first moving part 25, the latter extends automatically under the effect of the return means. The integration of the first return means 29 also ensures that the first moving part remains securely in place.

[0032] On the other hand, the first actuation means 14 is formed by direct or indirect contact of the door against a bearing surface of the first moving part 25. When the door moves from its open position, or even its offset position relative to the opening 3, to its closed position, it presses against said bearing surface, which moves the first moving part towards its retracted position. In this case, the first mechanism 9 includes a roller 30 mounted to rotate freely about a sixth vertical axis Z6, at the end of the first moving part 25 opposite the axis 26. The door includes a track 31 on which the roller 30 can roll. Contact between the roller 30 and the track 31 is forced by the action of the first return means 29.The shape of the roller track 31 is designed to achieve a gradual deployment of the first moving part during door opening, particularly during the initial opening phase. During the second opening phase, the roller 30 may be out of contact with the door. The movement of the door from its open to its closed position causes the door to exert pressure on the roller 30, which tends to move the first moving part 25 from its deployed to its retracted position and to recharge the first return mechanism 29.

[0033] The first mechanism 9 also includes an automatic locking means 32 for the first movable part 25 in the deployed position. The automatic locking means 32 can be formed by means of a locking element 33 that automatically bears against the first fixed part 24 when the first movable part 25 reaches its deployed position. This locking element 33 is integral with a lever 34, in particular screwed to the lever 34. The lever 34 is pivotally articulated relative to the first movable part 25 about an axis 35, parallel to the axis 26. A second torsion spring 36 is configured to give the locking element 33 an orientation enabling it to lock onto the first fixed part 24. The automatic locking means 32 prevents the first movable part 25 from returning to its retracted position. The automatic locking means 32 thus ensures the secure operation of the retaining device 7.It also helps to avoid a rebound phenomenon of the first mobile part 25 when it reaches its deployed position.

[0034] The first mechanism 9 also includes a release means configured to deactivate the automatic locking means 32 when the door moves from its open to its closed position. In practice, the door includes a bearing surface 38 configured to exert pressure on the lever 34 when the door moves from its open to its closed position. The pressure exerted by the bearing surface 38 on the lever 34 causes the lever to pivot about the axis 35 in a direction that disengages the locking element 33 from the first fixed part 24. The bearing surface 38 can be arranged in line with the track 31.

[0035] The second mechanism 10 is illustrated in more detail on the figures 12 to 14It comprises a second fixed part 40 and a second movable part 41. The second fixed part 40 is fixed to the door 4. The second movable part 41 is hinged relative to the second fixed part 40 between a retracted position against the door (illustrated on the figure 12 ), and a deployed position (illustrated on the Figures 13 And 14 ), in which it protrudes from the door. In particular, the second movable part 41 is articulated for rotation about the second fixed part 40 along a seventh axis of rotation Z7, which is substantially vertical. The range of rotation of the second movable part 41 between its retracted and extended positions can, for example, be between 0° and 90°, and in particular between 20° and 60°. According to an alternative embodiment, the second movable part 41 could be linked to the second fixed part 40 by another type of kinematic connection, for example, a sliding joint.

[0036] The second fixed part 40 includes a support, for example made of folded sheet metal, which is screwed to the door. The support carries a shaft 42 to which the second movable part 41 is attached by a pivot joint. The second movable part 41, or movable receptacle 41, includes openings through which the shaft 42 is arranged. The second movable part may include a face designed to extend parallel to the door trim 13 when the second movable part is in the retracted position. This face may optionally include a coating similar to that of the trim, preferably forming a smooth surface, for discreet integration of the second mechanism into the door.

[0037] The second movable part 41 further includes a second interlocking surface 44 designed to cooperate with the first interlocking surface 28. The second interlocking surface 44 may, for example, include a blind opening conforming to the shape of the first interlocking surface 28. The first interlocking surface 28 thus forms a male part and the second interlocking surface 44 forms a female part. Alternatively, this arrangement could be reversed: the second interlocking surface forming a male part and the first interlocking surface forming a female part. According to another embodiment, the two interlocking surfaces 28, 44 could have any shape allowing them to interlock. Advantageously, the pointed shape of the first interlocking surface 28 allows for automatic centering of the movable parts 25 and 41 when they come into contact with each other.When the two interlocking surfaces 28 and 44 are in contact, rotational locking is achieved between the first and second moving parts along any axis. Translational locking is also achieved between the first and second moving parts along both the vertical and transverse axes. Furthermore, a longitudinal stop is also formed, defining the open position of the door. Thus, the door 4 is held relative to the body in several directions. Alternatively, the shapes of the interlocking surfaces 28 and 44 could be adapted to provide support for the door only in some of these directions.

[0038] The second fixed part 40 and the second movable part 41 are linked to each other not only by means of the axis 42 but also by means of a control element 45. The control element 45 comprises two openings, each traversed respectively by an axis 48, 49. The control element 45 is mounted in a pivot joint with the second movable part 41 via the axis 48 and in a sliding pivot joint with the second fixed part 40 via the axis 49. For this purpose, the axis 49 is mounted to slide within two oblong slots 50 arranged on the second fixed part 40. The slots 50 comprise a straight portion 51 and a substantially arc-shaped portion 52 centered on the axis 48. When the axis 49 slides within the slots 50 at the level of their straight portion 51 (i.e., between the positions of the figure 12 and of the figure 13), it induces a pivoting of the second movable part 41 relative to the second fixed part 40, which moves from its retracted position to its deployed position. When the axis 49 slides within the slots 50 at the level of their arc-shaped part 52 (i.e., between the positions of the figure 13 and of the figure 14 ), it does not induce any pivoting of the second mobile part 41 relative to the second fixed part 40. This stabilizes the deployed position of the second mobile part 41 and facilitates the docking between the first mobile part 25 and the second mobile part 41 when the door is opened.

[0039] Furthermore, the second mechanism 10 includes a second return means for moving the second movable part from its deployed position to its retracted position. In this case, this return means consists of a set of two springs 54, each comprising a first end bearing on a fixed axis 55 integral with the support, and a second end bearing on the axis 49. The two springs 54 tend to push the axis 49 towards the end of the slots 50 corresponding to the retracted position of the second movable part 41. Each spring may be equipped with a guide element 72 arranged inside the spring.

[0040] The second actuation means 15 is configured such that the second moving part 41 is in the retracted position when the door is closed, and such that the second moving part 41 is in the extended position when the door is open. In this case, the second actuation means 15 includes a third mechanism 56 integrated into the guide device 7 and connected by a cable 57 to the second moving part 41. This third mechanism is illustrated in particular in the figure 15 The third mechanism 56 is configured to be actuated by a movement of the door between its open position and its closed position.

[0041] More specifically, the third mechanism 56 includes a shuttle 58 cooperating with a cable winding support 61. The shuttle 58 is fixed to the first end of the second arm 17 and is thus in a sliding connection with the door. More precisely, the shuttle 58 includes an opening 70 extending along the vertical axis Z3 and through which passes a strut of the second arm 17. The shuttle 58 therefore moves relative to the door when the door moves in translation relative to the body element, i.e., during the second phase of the door's movement. The cable winding support 61 is fixed to the door by means of a pivot joint. For this purpose, the third mechanism includes a support 60 fixed to the door, and comprising an axis 59. The cable winding support 61 is mounted by means of a pivot joint relative to the support 60 about an eighth vertical axis Z8.A roller 62 is attached to the cable winding support by means of two flanges 63. The roller is fixed to the two flanges 63 by means of a pivot joint about a ninth vertical axis Z9. The roller 62 cooperates with an upper surface 64 of the shuttle to rotate the cable winding support 61 about the axis 59. The upper surface 64 includes a ramp adapted to exert a force on the roller 62 to rotate the two flanges 63 and the cable winding support 61. The ramp is extended by a horizontally extending flat portion. The sliding of the flat portion against the roller 62 does not induce any rotation of the cable winding support 61. The shuttle is therefore designed to pass between the axis 59 and the roller 62 when the door is opened, as can be clearly seen in the figure. figure 8The shuttle 58 therefore acts as a cam to rotate the cable winding support 61 around the axis 59. One end of the cable 57 is fixed to the cable winding support 61, so that the rotation of the cable winding support 61 tensions the cable. The other end of the cable 57 is fixed to the axis 49 of the second mechanism. More precisely, the other end of the cable is fixed to the axis 49 by means of a fitting screwed into the axis 49. Tightening or partially loosening the fitting allows the tension of the cable 57 to be adjusted.

[0042] Opening the door causes the upper surface 64 of the shuttle 58 to bear against the roller 62. This bearing causes the cable winding support 61 to rotate, which puts the cable 57 under tension. The cable tension exerts a tensile force on the shaft 49 against the two springs 54, causing the second moving part 41 to deploy. Therefore, the shape of the upper surface 64 of the shuttle allows the opening kinematics of the second moving part 41 to be adapted.

[0043] The second actuation means 15 is configured so that the second moving part 41 moves from its retracted position to its deployed position only after the second mechanism 10 has passed through the opening 3 when the door moves from its closed to its open position. In other words, the second moving part 41 deploys only when it is located behind a rear edge of the opening 3. This avoids any risk of a user's fingers being caught in the second mechanism 10, since the second moving part remains in the retracted position as long as it is accessible in the passenger compartment or the cargo area. This can be easily achieved by adapting the position of the shuttle and / or the support 60 to which the cable winding support 61 and the roller 62 are attached, or by adapting the shape of the upper surface 64 of the shuttle 58.

[0044] During the first phase of the door's movement, the first actuating means 14 is configured so that the first moving part 25 moves from its retracted position to its deployed position. The transverse movement of the door 4 relative to the body element 2 allows the first moving part 25 to deploy, under the action of the first return means 29. According to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the deployment of the first moving part could also be controlled via a cable connecting the first moving part 25 to the guide device 8. However, the use of the simple return means 29 and the roller 30 allows for the simple and efficient synchronization of the deployment and retraction of the first moving part. During this first phase of movement, the shuttle 58 remains away from the roller 62. There is no change in the tension of the cable 57, and the second mechanism does not deploy.

[0045] THE figures 16 And 17 illustrate the second phase of the door's movement. The second actuation means 15 is configured so that the second moving part moves from its retracted position to its deployed position during the second phase of the door's movement. During this second phase of movement, the first fixed part remains stationary in the deployed position.

[0046] THE figures 18 And 19These figures illustrate an alternative embodiment of a sliding door system 1B according to the invention. This alternative embodiment is described using the same reference numerals as before, adding the suffix "B". Only the main differences compared to the first embodiment are described. According to this alternative embodiment, the first mechanism 9B can remain largely unchanged. The second mechanism 10B is configured so that the deployment of the second moving part 41B is achieved by pushing the cable 57B and not by pulling the cable. Advantageously, the cable 57B can be held in a sheath to allow the transmission of a pushing force. The third mechanism 56B is replaced by a cylinder 65B. The cylinder 65B comprises a body 66B fixed to the door and a piston 67B that moves translationally relative to the body. The piston 67B is attached to one end of the cable 57B.Piston 67B is configured to be moved within body 66B when the door moves from its closed position to its open position so as to exert tension on the first end of the cable, specifically so as to push the first end of the cable.

[0047] With reference to the figure 19 The other end of cable 57B is attached to a first element 68B, which is rotatably mounted within the second mechanism 10B. The first element 68B is capable of transmitting a pushing force from cable 57B to a second V-shaped element 69B, which is attached to the second moving part 41B, so as to deploy the second moving part 41B. The first element 68B is also capable of transmitting a pulling force from cable 57B to the second element 69B so as to retract the second moving part 41B.

[0048] Thanks to the invention, a sliding door system without a central external rail is available, thus preserving the vehicle's exterior aesthetic appearance. The door 4 remains securely attached to the body when open and is not at risk of sagging or being torn off when the vehicle is in use with the door open. For example, during unloading, if a force directed laterally and outwards from the vehicle is applied to the door, this force is absorbed by the retaining device 8, and the door is not torn off. The absence of a retaining device during the opening or closing movement of the door is not a problem because the risk of a lateral force being applied to the door during this movement is very low.

Claims

1. Sliding door system (1, 1B) for a motor vehicle (V), comprising a body element (2), a door (4) sliding between an open position and a closed position with respect to the body element, and a device (8) for holding the door when it is in the open position, the holding device comprising: - a first mechanism (9) comprising a first fixed part (24) and a first mobile part (25), the first fixed part being fastened to the body element and the first mobile part being articulated with respect to the first fixed part between a position in which it is retracted against the body element and a deployed position, the first mobile part comprising a first interlocking surface (28), - a first actuation means (14) of the first mechanism (9), configured such that the first mobile part (25) is in the retracted position when the door is in the closed position, and such that the first mobile part is in the deployed position when the door is in the open position, - a second mechanism (10) comprising a second fixed part (40) and a second mobile part (41), the second fixed part being fastened to the door and the second mobile part being articulated with respect to the second fixed part between a position in which it is retracted against the door and a deployed position, the second mobile part comprising a second interlocking surface (44), - a second actuation means (15) of the second mechanism (10), configured such that the second mobile part (41) is in the retracted position when the door is in the closed position, and such that the second mobile part is in the deployed position when the door is in the open position, the first interlocking surface (28) cooperating with the second interlocking surface (44) when the door is in the open position, to hold the door.

2. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that: - the first mobile part (25) is articulated in rotation around the first fixed part (24) about an axis of rotation (Z5) extending substantially vertically, and / or in that: - the second mobile part (41) is articulated in rotation around the second fixed part (40) about an axis of rotation (Z7) extending substantially vertically.

3. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first mechanism (9) comprises a first return means (29) tending to make the first mobile part pass from its retracted position to its deployed position, and in that the first mobile part comprises a means for bearing against the door, in particular a roller (30), the displacement of the door from its open position to its closed position exerting a bearing force on said bearing means tending to make the first mobile part pass from its deployed position to its retracted position.

4. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first mechanism (9) comprises a means (32) for automatically blocking the first mobile part in the deployed position, and a means for unblocking the first mobile part, the unblocking means comprising a lever (34) configured to deactivate the automatic blocking means, the door comprising a bearing surface (38) configured to actuate said lever when the door passes from its open position to its closed position.

5. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a device (7) for guiding the door between its closed position and its open position, the guiding device comprising a third mechanism (56, 56B) configured to be actuated by a displacement of the door between its closed position and its open position, the third mechanism being connected by a cable (57, 57B) to the second mobile part (41, 41B), the third mechanism being configured such that a displacement of the door from its closed position to its open position brings about a variation in the tension of said cable, the second mechanism (10, 10B) being configured such that the variation in tension of the cable makes the second mobile part pass from its retracted position to its deployed position.

6. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the third mechanism comprises: - a shuttle (58) in sliding connection with the door (4) and a cable winding support (61) fastened with a pivot connection to the door, the cable winding support being fastened to a first end of the cable (57), the shuttle being configured so as to drive the cable winding support in rotation when the door passes from its closed position to its open position so as to exert tension on the first end of the cable, or - a ram (65B) comprising a body (66B) as one with the door and a piston (67B) that is able to move relative to the body, the piston being fastened to a first end of the cable (57B), the piston being configured to be moved within the body when the door passes from its closed position to its open position so as to exert pression on the first end of the cable.

7. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to either of Claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the body element (2) comprises an aperture (3) in which the door (4) is placed when it is in the closed position, the first mechanism (9) being positioned at the rear of the aperture substantially halfway up the aperture, the second mechanism (10) being positioned against an inner face of the door and at the same height as the first mechanism, the guiding device (7) being positioned at a lower edge of the door.

8. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body element (2) comprises an aperture (3) in which the door (4) is placed when it is in the closed position, and in that the second actuation means (15) is configured such that the second mobile part (41) moves from its retracted position to its deployed position only after the second mechanism has cleared said aperture when the door moves from its closed position to its open position.

9. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the door is able to move from its closed position to its open position with a movement comprising a first phase followed by a second phase, the first phase of the movement comprising a transverse displacement of the door (4) relative to the body element (2), and the second phase of the movement comprising a longitudinal translation of the door relative to the body element, the first actuation means (14) being configured such that the first mobile part (25) passes from its retracted position to its deployed position during the first phase of displacement of the door, and / or the second actuation means (15) being configured such that the second mobile part (41) passes from its retracted position to its deployed position during the second phase of displacement of the door.

10. Sliding door system (1, 1B) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first interlocking surface (28) and the second interlocking surface (44) respectively form a male part and a female part that are interlocked one in the other when the door is in the open position.

11. Motor vehicle (V), characterized in that it comprises a sliding door system (1, 1B) according to one of the preceding claims.