Improved mechanism for opening / closing a lock for a motor vehicle leaf

Abstract

The present invention relates to a mechanism for assisting the opening / closing of a lock (10) for a leaf, the mechanism for assisting opening / closing comprising an electrical actuator (16) configured to command the lock (12) to close and to open, the electrical actuator (16) being associated with a reduction gear (161) comprising a drive means (18) configured to carry out a movement travel comprising a first travel portion for opening the lock (12), and a second travel portion for closing the lock (12), the reduction gear (161) having a first reduction ratio on the first travel portion, and a second reduction ratio on the second travel portion, the first reduction ratio being different from, preferably less than, the second reduction ratio.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to the field of locks for motor vehicle openings, in particular for a vehicle opening such as a tailgate, a trunk, or a side door of a motor vehicle.

[0002] A motor vehicle opening leaf is movable between an open position and a closed position of the opening leaf. It generally includes a lock movable between an open position and a closed position of the lock. When the lock is in the closed position, it allows the opening leaf to be locked in the closed position. Alternatively, when the lock is in the open position, it allows the opening leaf to be unlocked, so that it can move from the closed position to the open position. The lock also allows the opening leaf to be locked and unlocked in the closed position. Locking consists of preventing the opening of the opening leaf. Generally, the locking / unlocking of the lock is carried out mechanically by a user, by inserting a mechanical key, or electrically using a microcontroller that controls the lock, via a "plip" on the key for example.In this case, for example, the microcontroller's memory stores the lock state.

[0003] More specifically, the transition from the opening position to the closing position of the opening involves several stages: a step of moving the opening towards a chassis of the vehicle, and a step of closing the lock in which the opening is secured to the chassis.

[0004] Furthermore, the transition from the closed position to the open position of the opening involves several steps: a step of opening the lock in which the opening is detached from the frame, and a step of moving the opening away from the vehicle frame.

[0005] The lock may be equipped with an electric lock opening / closing mechanism, allowing a user to remotely control the opening and closing of the lock. These are also referred to as lock opening / closing assistance mechanisms.

[0006] The lock typically comprises a bolt intended to be moved, for example by pivoting, around a strike plate fixed to the chassis of the motor vehicle, and a pawl configured to allow or prohibit the movement of the bolt thanks to the action for example of a handle of the opening. The bolt is movable in one direction in order to ensure the closing of the lock, and in an opposite direction in order to allow the opening of the lock.

[0007] A lock opening / closing assistance mechanism generally comprises electric actuators configured to allow or prohibit the movement of the bolt and thus allow the lock to close, and to allow or prohibit the movement of the pawl and thus allow the lock to open.

[0008] More specifically, the known electric actuators comprise a first electric actuator dedicated to opening the lock, configured to electrically actuate the pawl, and a second electric actuator dedicated to closing the lock, configured to electrically actuate the bolt. Consequently, these mechanisms for assisting the opening / closing of the lock are massive and have complex kinematics.

[0009] A known solution consists of creating a mechanism to assist the opening / closing of the lock, comprising a single electric actuator to perform both the function of opening the lock and closing the lock. However, the power required to open the lock is different from the power required to close the lock. Indeed, in closing it is necessary to have a high torque, while in opening it is necessary to have a high speed. In order to increase the torque, a reducer is placed in the electric actuator, this is called a geared motor. Consequently, these known solutions have the disadvantage of being limited in speed.

[0010] US 2002 / 063430, US 2018 / 073284, EP 3 284 885 and US 2001 / 010427 disclose mechanisms for assisting the opening / closing of a lock for an opening, comprising an electric actuator associated with a reducer having two different reduction ratios.

[0011] The invention aims to overcome all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a mechanism for assisting the opening / closing of a lock for an opening, the mechanism for assisting the opening / closing comprising an electric actuator configured to control a closing and an opening of the lock, the electric actuator being associated with a reduction gear comprising a drive means configured to perform a movement stroke comprising a first portion of stroke for opening the lock, and a second portion of stroke for closing the lock, the reduction gear having a first ratio on the first portion of stroke, and a second reduction ratio on the second portion of stroke, the first reduction ratio being different from the second reduction ratio.

[0012] In other words, the opening / closing assistance mechanism comprises a reducer having a first reduction ratio when the electric actuator controls the opening of the lock, and a second reduction ratio when the electric actuator controls the closing of the lock, the first reduction ratio being different from the second reduction ratio.

[0013] By reduction ratio we mean the ratio of a speed of a movement at the output of the reducer to a speed of a movement at the input of the actuator.

[0014] Thus, the opening / closing assistance mechanism according to the invention has a minimized footprint. In addition, the availability of the lock opening and closing functions is improved, the kinematics being immediately available. Indeed, the kinematics for controlling the lock closing and opening chains are the same. Only the reducer is different.

[0015] The reducer comprises a first lever arm controlled in movement by the drive means when the drive means performs the first portion of travel, and a second lever arm controlled in movement by the drive means when the drive means performs the second portion of travel. The second lever arm may be shorter than the first lever arm. Thus the resulting reduction ratio may be lower with the first lever arm, so as to generate a travel speed. The second lever arm makes it possible to generate a torque.

[0016] The reducer comprises a transmission means configured to be driven by the drive means, and to drive the first and second lever arms. The drive means may be a wheel whose travel stroke is a rotation. The transmission means may be a wheel whose travel stroke is a rotation.

[0017] The second lever arm is arranged on the transmission means so that the transmission means has an axis of rotation coinciding with the second axis of rotation of the second lever arm. It may thus be possible to simplify the kinematics of the assistance mechanism, the kinematics being adapted to the supply of different powers between the closing and the opening of the lock.

[0018] According to other features of the invention, the opening / closing assistance mechanism comprises one or more of the following optional features, considered alone or in all possible combinations.

[0019] According to one characteristic, when the drive means performs the first portion of travel, the reducer is configured to generate a first torque and when the drive means performs the second portion of travel, the reducer is configured to generate a second torque, the second torque being greater than the first torque.

[0020] The ratio between the first couple and the second couple can be between 3 and 5.

[0021] The ratio between the first couple and the second couple can be 4.

[0022] According to one feature, when the drive means performs the first portion of travel, the reducer is configured to generate a first speed and when the drive means performs the second portion of travel, the reducer is configured to generate a second speed, the first speed being greater than the second speed.

[0023] The ratio between the first and second gears is inverse to the ratio between the first and second torques.

[0024] The ratio between second gear and first gear can be between 3 and 5.

[0025] The ratio between second gear and first gear can be 4.

[0026] According to one feature, the first portion of travel is carried out in a first direction of movement, and the second portion of travel is carried out in a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement.

[0027] Alternatively, the first portion of the race and the second portion of the race are carried out in the same direction of travel.

[0028] According to one feature, the first reduction ratio is lower than the second reduction ratio. This provides high torque for closing and high speed for opening.

[0029] According to one feature, the transmission means comprises a pin arranged axially on the transmission means, and the first lever arm comprises a door configured to be driven by the pin when the drive means performs the first portion of travel.

[0030] According to one characteristic, the transmission means is a wheel forming a gear with the drive means.

[0031] According to one feature, the pin is configured to pass from a first side of the door to a second side of the door when the drive means performs the first portion of travel. Thus, the pin is configured to pass from the first side of the door to the second side of the door after driving the first lever arm to allow the lock to be opened.

[0032] According to one feature, the pin is configured to move from the second side of the door to the first side of the door when the drive means completes a third portion of travel. In this way, the pin is again available to drive the first lever arm via the door when the drive means completes the first portion of travel. This is referred to as resetting the opening / closing mechanism. This resetting is automatic and makes it possible to refrain from an additional action, for example via a switch. It can take place at any time during the lock opening / closing cycle.

[0033] According to one feature, the lock comprises a bolt and a pawl, movable between an open position of the lock and a closed position of the lock, the first lever arm being configured to drive the pawl into the open position of the lock, and the second lever arm being configured to drive the bolt into the closed position of the lock.

[0034] In another embodiment, the reducer comprises an epicyclic gear train.

[0035] According to this embodiment, the reducer comprises an output shaft controlled in displacement by the drive means when the drive means performs the first portion of travel, and when the drive means performs the second portion of travel, the first portion of travel corresponding to a displacement in a first direction of travel and the second portion of travel corresponding to a displacement in a second direction of travel opposite to the first direction of travel.

[0036] According to one feature, the lock comprises a bolt and a pawl movable between an open position of the lock and a closed position of the lock, the output shaft being configured to drive the bolt into the closed position of the lock when the drive means performs the second portion of travel, and the output shaft being configured to drive the pawl into the open position of the lock when the drive means performs the first portion of travel.

[0037] The output shaft corresponds to a single lever arm.

[0038] According to one feature, the epicyclic gear train comprises a first stage such as a planet carrier, and a second stage, such as a satellite, the output shaft being controlled in movement by the drive means via the second stage, in order to generate the second torque allowing the lock to close, when the drive means performs the second portion of travel. Thus the second stage is a transmission means configured to be driven by the drive means, and to drive the output shaft when the drive means performs the second portion of travel. The first portion of travel can be performed in a first direction of rotation, and the second portion of travel can be performed in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation. The first torque and the second torque can be the first torque and the second torque generated by the epicyclic gear train, for example at the output shaft.

[0039] According to one feature, the first stage is configured to be locked when the drive means performs the second portion of travel, and the second stage is configured to be locked when the drive means performs the first portion of travel, in order to generate the first speed allowing the lock to be opened.

[0040] The epicyclic gear train may comprise one or the first stage, for example one or the planet carrier, and one or the second stage, for example one or the satellite. The first stage may have an axis of rotation, for example a first axis of rotation. The rotation of the first stage about the first axis of rotation may be permitted in a first direction of rotation about the first axis of rotation and blocked in a second direction of rotation about the first axis of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation about the first axis of rotation. The second stage may have an axis of rotation, for example a second axis of rotation, about which the rotation of the second stage is permitted in a first direction of rotation about the second axis of rotation and blocked in a second direction of rotation about the second axis of rotation, for example opposite to the first direction of rotation about the second axis of rotation.It may thus be possible to simplify the kinematics of the assistance mechanism, the kinematics being adapted to the supply of different powers between the closing and opening of the lock.

[0041] The first direction of rotation about the first axis of rotation and the first direction of rotation about the second axis of rotation may correspond to the same direction of rotation. The second direction of rotation about the first axis of rotation and the second direction of rotation about the second axis of rotation may correspond to the same direction of rotation. It may thus be possible to further simplify the kinematics of the assistance mechanism, the kinematics being adapted to the provision of different powers between closing and opening the lock.

[0042] The invention also relates to a lock comprising: an opening / closing assistance mechanism as described above, a bolt and a pawl movable between an open position of the lock and a closed position of the lock, the drive means being configured to drive the bolt into the closed position of the lock when the drive means performs the second portion of travel, and the drive means being configured to drive the pawl into the open position of the lock when the drive means performs the first portion of travel.

[0043] The invention further relates to an opening and a motor vehicle comprising a lock as described above.

[0044] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the description which follows and on examining the appended figures in which: [ Fig. 1 ] is a partial schematic view of a mechanism for assisting the opening / closing of a lock for an opening according to a first embodiment of the invention, seen from a first face, [ Fig. 2 ] is a schematic view of part of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 1 , seen from above, [ Fig. 3 ] is a partial schematic view of part of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 1 , seen from a second face opposite the first face, illustrating an action of opening a lock, [ Fig. 4 ] is a partial schematic view of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 3 , illustrating the sequence of the action of opening a lock, [ Fig. 5 ] is a schematic perspective view of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 4 , illustrating the sequence of the action of opening a lock, [ Fig. 6 ] schematically represents part of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 3 , illustrating the steps of opening a lock, [ Fig. 7 ] is a partial schematic view of part of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 1 , seen from a second face opposite the first face, illustrating a closing action of a lock, [ Fig. 8 ] is a partial schematic view of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 7 , illustrating the sequence of the action of closing a lock, [ Fig. 9 ] is a partial schematic view of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 8 , illustrating the sequence of the action of closing a lock, [ Fig. 10 ] schematically represents part of the opening / closing assistance mechanism of the figure 3 , illustrating actions for resetting the opening / closing assistance mechanism allowing a lock to move from a closing position to an opening position, [ Fig. 11 ] is a schematic view illustrating a mechanism for assisting the opening / closing of a lock for an opening according to an example which is not part of the invention, in the closed position, [ Fig. 12 ] is a schematic view illustrating the opening / closing assistance mechanism for the opening according to the example, in the open position, [ Fig. 13 ] is a schematic view illustrating a locking means for the second embodiment. [ Fig. 14 ] is a schematic view of an opening, here a tailgate, comprising a lock comprising a mechanism for assisting the opening / closing of the lock according to the invention.

[0045] THE figures 1 à 10 represent an opening / closing assistance mechanism 10 of a lock 12 for an opening 100 of a motor vehicle ( figure 14 ), according to a first embodiment. The lock 12 (partially shown), is integrated for example in a housing 14 partially shown in the figure 1 . The lock 12 is movable between an open position ( figure 5 ) and a closing position ( figure 9 ) of the lock. When the lock 12 is in the closed position, it allows the opening leaf 100 to be locked in the closed position. Alternatively, when the lock 12 is in the open position, it allows the opening leaf 100 to be unlocked, so that it can move from the closed position to the open position. The lock 12 may be an electric lock.

[0046] The lock 12 may comprise a bolt 121 and a pawl 122 movable between the closed position of the lock ( figure 6 ) and the opening position of the lock ( figure 8 ).

[0047] Furthermore, the opening / closing assistance mechanism 10 comprises an electric actuator 16 configured to control the closing and opening of the lock 12.

[0048] The actuator 16 is associated with a reducer 161 comprising a drive means 18 configured to perform a movement stroke comprising a first portion of stroke for opening the lock, and a second portion of stroke for closing the lock.

[0049] The opening / closing assistance mechanism 10 comprises an electric actuator 16 and a reducer 161.

[0050] The reducer 161 has a first reduction ratio for opening the lock 12, i.e. over the first portion of travel, and a second reduction ratio for closing the lock 12, i.e. over the second portion of travel. The second reduction ratio is different from the first reduction ratio.

[0051] The reducer 161 then has a first reduction ratio when the electric actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock 12, and a second reduction ratio when the electric actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12.

[0052] The actuator 16 is configured to control the drive means 18.

[0053] In the embodiments shown, the actuator 16 is a rotary actuator, movable in rotation in order to control the closing and opening of the lock via the drive means 18.

[0054] In a variant not shown, the actuator could be movable in translation for example. This is called a linear actuator.

[0055] The opening / closing assistance mechanism 10 makes it possible to perform an opening and closing assistance function of the lock 12, allowing a user to remotely control the opening and closing of the lock 12.

[0056] The drive means 18 may be a wheel whose travel is a rotation.

[0057] The first portion of travel and the second portion of travel of the drive means 18 can be carried out in the same direction of movement ( figures 3 à 9 ).

[0058] In a variant not shown, the first portion of travel of the drive means 18 can be carried out in a first direction of movement, and the second portion of travel can be carried out in a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement.

[0059] The first reduction ratio is advantageously lower than the second reduction ratio. In this way, a higher torque is available for closing the lock than for opening the lock, while a higher speed is available for opening the lock than for closing the lock.

[0060] The reducer 161 may comprise at least one lever arm, controlled in movement by the drive means 18 when the drive means 18 performs the first portion of travel and / or the second portion of travel. The at least one lever arm may be configured to control the opening and / or closing of the lock.

[0061] The reducer 161 may comprise a first lever arm 162 controlled in movement by the drive means 18 when the drive means 18 performs the first portion of travel. Thus, the first lever arm 162 is controlled in movement when the actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock.

[0062] The reducer 161 may comprise a second lever arm 164 controlled in movement by the drive means 18 when the drive means 18 performs the second portion of travel. Thus, the second lever arm 164 is controlled in movement when the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock.

[0063] It is the lever arms 162, 164 which vary the reduction ratio allowing the speed and torque at the output of the reducer 161 to be varied.

[0064] The first lever arm 162 and the second lever arm 164 are movable. They are driven by the actuator 16 via the drive means 18.

[0065] The reducer 161 may comprise a transmission means 19 configured to be driven by the drive means 18. The transmission means 19 may be configured to drive the first 162 and second 164 lever arms. More particularly, in the variant according to which the drive means 18 is a wheel, the first lever arm 162 may be movable in rotation about a first axis of rotation A and the second lever arm 164 may be movable in rotation about a second axis of rotation B.

[0066] The transmission means 19 may be a wheel whose travel path is a rotation.

[0067] In the variant, not shown, according to which the actuator is movable in translation, the first lever arm and the second lever arm are movable in translation.

[0068] The first lever arm 162 is configured to drive the pawl 122 into the lock opening position, and the second lever arm 164 is configured to drive the bolt 121 into the lock closing position.

[0069] As shown in the figure 1 , the second lever arm 164 may be shorter than the first lever arm 162. In this way, the first reduction ratio is lower than the second reduction ratio.

[0070] As particularly shown by the figure 2 , the reducer 161 may comprise a first wheel 17 driven in rotation by the actuator for example via a worm screw of the actuator 16, a second wheel 18 driven in rotation by the first wheel 17, in order to form a gear, and a third wheel 19 driven by the second wheel 18 in order to form a gear. In this embodiment, the second wheel 18 is the drive means as described previously. Furthermore, in this embodiment the third wheel 19 is the transmission means as described previously.

[0071] The drive means 18 may have an axis of rotation coinciding with the axis of rotation A of the first lever arm 162. The drive means 18 may be configured to be driven in rotation around the axis of rotation A in a first direction of rotation F1 ( figures 3 à 9 ) and in a second direction of rotation F2 opposite to the first direction of rotation F1 ( figure 10 ).

[0072] As will be seen later, the first direction of rotation F1 may correspond to the direction of movement of the drive means 18 to perform the first and second portion of travel. The second direction of rotation F2 may correspond to a third portion of travel of the drive means 18, which corresponds, for example, to a reset of the opening / closing assistance mechanism 10.

[0073] The drive means 18 can be configured to drive the first lever arm 162 in rotation in order to control the opening of the lock 12. The drive means 18 can be configured to drive the second lever arm 164 in rotation in order to control the closing of the lock 12.

[0074] More specifically, the drive means 18 may be configured to drive the transmission means 19 in order to drive the first 162 and second 164 lever arms. The transmission means 19 may have an axial pin 20 configured to cooperate with a door 22 of the first lever arm 162. The first lever arm 162 may be driven in rotation by the pin 20. The drive means 18 may be configured to drive the first lever arm 162 via the pin 20 of the transmission means 19. The drive means 18 is therefore a means for driving the first lever arm 162.

[0075] Thus, the first lever arm 162 may have a door 22 configured to be driven by the transmission means 19, for example via the pin 20.

[0076] The door 22 can be configured to be driven by the pin 20 of the transmission means 19 when the drive means 18 performs the first portion of travel.

[0077] Thus, the door 22 can be configured to be driven by the pin 20 of the transmission means 19 when the electric actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock 12.

[0078] The second lever arm 164 is, for example, arranged on the transmission means 19 so that the transmission means 19 has an axis of rotation coinciding with the second axis of rotation B of the second lever arm 164. The second lever arm 164 is driven in rotation by the drive means 18 via the transmission means 19. The drive means 18 is therefore a means for driving the second lever arm 164.

[0079] THE figures 3 à 6 illustrate the opening of a lock using a rotary actuator 16. Alternatively, the actuator could be a linear actuator, movable in translation.

[0080] More precisely, the actuator 16 is controlled in movement so as to drive the drive means 18 in rotation around the axis of rotation A in the first direction of rotation F1. The drive means 18 then performs a first portion of travel in order to drive the first lever arm 162 from an initial position ( figure 3 ) to a final position ( figure 5 ). The first lever arm 162 makes it possible to control the lock in the open position. Even more precisely, the first lever arm 162 causes the pawl 122 to move away from the bolt 121. The bolt 121 is then able to be movable to allow the lock 12 to move from the closed position to the open position. The movement of the bolt 121 to allow the lock 12 to move from the closed position to the open position is, for example, carried out under the effect of a spring, or the decompression of a door seal, or a motorization of the opening, which causes the opening 100 to move into the open position of the opening. The drive means 18 then causes the pawl 122 to move away from the bolt 121, via a rotational movement of the first lever arm 162 driven by the pin 20.

[0081] The actuator 16, controlled in movement to allow the opening of the lock 12, can drive the first wheel 17 which drives the second wheel 18 which drives the third wheel 19. The third wheel 19 can drive the first lever arm 162 in rotation via the pin 20.

[0082] More precisely, the pin 20 drives the door 22 of the first lever arm 162 in order to drive the first lever arm 162.

[0083] There figure 6 shows more particularly the movement of the pin 20 driving the door 22 of the first lever arm 162, in four steps 6a to 6d. The first three steps 6a, 6b and 6c show that the pin 20 is arranged on a first side of the door 22 in order to move the door 22. During the rotation of the drive means 18 in the first direction of rotation F1 to carry out the first portion of travel, the transmission means 19 is driven in the second direction of rotation F2. Thus, the pin 20 makes it possible to move the door 22 of the first lever arm 162 in order to drive the pawl 122. During these first three steps 6a, 6b, 6c, the first lever arm 162 passes from the initial position ( figure 3 ) to the final position ( figure 5 ). The fourth step 6d shows that the pin 20 passes from the first side of the door 22 to a second side of the door 22 when the drive means 18 has completed the first portion of travel. When the pin 20 is on the second side of the door 22, the first lever arm 162 is released from its contact with the pin 20 and returns to the initial position. Thus, when the first lever arm 162 has driven the pawl 122 away from the bolt 121, the pin 20 passes to the second side of the door 22 so that the first lever arm 162 returns to the initial position.

[0084] THE figures 7 à 9 illustrate the closing of a lock using a rotary actuator 16. Alternatively, the actuator could be a linear actuator movable in translation.

[0085] More precisely, the actuator 16 is controlled in movement so as to drive the drive means 18 in rotation around the axis of rotation A in the first direction of rotation F1. The drive means 18 then performs a second portion of travel in order to drive the second lever arm 164 into contact with the bolt 121. The second lever arm 164 makes it possible to control the lock in the closed position. Even more precisely, the second lever arm 164 drives the bolt 121 in movement around a striker 40 in order to allow the lock to be closed. The drive means 18 then causes a movement of the bolt 121, via a rotational movement of the second lever arm 164. During the rotation of the drive means 18 in the first direction of rotation F1 to carry out the second portion of travel, the transmission means 19 is driven in the second direction of rotation F2 and drives the second lever arm 164 into contact with the bolt 121.

[0086] The bolt 121 is driven by the second lever arm 164, which then allows the lock to be controlled in the closed position. More precisely, the second lever arm 164 causes the bolt 121 to move into the closed position.

[0087] The actuator 16, controlled in movement to allow the closing of the lock 12, can drive the first wheel 17 which drives the second wheel 18 which drives the third wheel 19. The third wheel 19 can drive the second lever arm 164 in rotation.

[0088] There figure 10 illustrates four steps 10a to 10d of resetting the opening / closing assistance mechanism, making it possible to move from an end-of-closing position to a position ready for opening the lock 12. These four resetting steps 10a to 10d make it possible to move the pin 20 from the second side of the door 22 to the first side of the door 22. For this purpose, the actuator 16 drives the drive means 18 in rotation in the second direction of rotation F2 opposite to the first direction of rotation F1. The movement of the drive means 18 in the second direction of rotation F2 is a third portion of travel of the drive means 18. During the rotation of the drive means 18 in the second direction of rotation F2 to perform the third portion of travel, the transmission means 19 is driven in the first direction of rotation F1.Thus, the pin 20 of the transmission means 19 enters the door 22 of the first lever arm 162 then passes from the second side of the door 22 to the first side of the door 22. The pin 20 is then available to allow the door 22 to be driven so that the first lever arm 162 drives the pawl 122 into the lock opening position.

[0089] This mechanical reset operation is automatic. It allows for the avoidance of an additional action, for example via a switch, aimed at positioning the mechanism in an intermediate position, between opening and closing.

[0090] Thus, the drive means 18 is configured to drive the first lever arm 162 and the second lever arm 164.

[0091] In order for the first lever arm 162 to be able to drive the pawl 122 into the lock opening position, the pin 20 of the transmission means 19 must be arranged on the first side of the door 22 ( figure 5 ).

[0092] The first portion of travel and the second portion of travel are carried out in the first direction of rotation F1. The second portion of travel is greater than the first portion of travel. In order for the second lever arm 164 to be able to drive the bolt 121 into the closed position, the drive means 18 must carry out a movement in the first direction of rotation F1 greater than the movement in the first direction of rotation F1 making it possible to drive the pawl 122 into the open position of the lock, via the first lever arm 162.

[0093] In a variant not shown, the drive means 18 can be configured to be driven in rotation around the axis of rotation A in the first direction of rotation F1, called the opening direction, in order to drive the first lever arm 162 so as to cause the lock 12 to open, and in the second direction of rotation F2, called the closing direction, in order to drive the second lever arm 164 so as to cause the lock 12 to close.

[0094] THE figures 11 à 13 represent an opening / closing assistance mechanism 10 for a lock 12 for an opening 100 of a motor vehicle, according to an example which is not part of the invention.

[0095] In this example, the lock 12 is for example integrated into a housing 14, in the same way as in the first embodiment.

[0096] Furthermore, the lock 12 is movable between an open position and a closed position of the lock. When the lock 12 is in the closed position, it allows the opening leaf 100 to be locked in the closed position. Alternatively, when the lock 12 is in the open position, it allows the opening leaf 100 to be unlocked, so that it can move from the closed position to the open position. The lock 12 may be an electric lock. The lock 12 may comprise a bolt 121 and a pawl 122 movable between the closed position of the lock and the open position of the lock.

[0097] In this example, the opening / closing assistance mechanism 10 comprises an electric actuator 16 configured to control the closing and opening of the lock 12. The actuator 16 is associated with a reducer 161 comprising a drive means 38 configured to perform a movement stroke comprising a first portion of stroke for opening the lock, and a second portion of stroke for closing the lock.

[0098] As for the first embodiment, the reducer 161 has a first reduction ratio for opening the lock 12, i.e. over the first portion of travel, and a second reduction ratio for closing the lock 12, i.e. over the second portion of travel. The second reduction ratio is different from the first reduction ratio. The reducer 161 then has a first reduction ratio when the electric actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock 12, and a second reduction ratio when the electric actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12. The actuator 16 is configured to control the drive means 38. The first reduction ratio is advantageously lower than the second reduction ratio. In this way, a high torque is available for closing the lock, while a high speed is available for opening the lock.

[0099] This example differs from the first embodiment in that the reducer 161 comprises an epicyclic gear train 30.

[0100] The epicyclic gear train 30 may comprise the drive means 38, also called a crown, at least a first stage 32, and a second stage 34.

[0101] The drive means 38 may be a first pinion of the epicyclic gear train 30, the displacement stroke of which is a rotation.

[0102] The drive means 38 can be configured to be driven in rotation in the first direction of rotation F1 and in the second direction of rotation F2 opposite to the first direction of rotation F1.

[0103] The first portion of travel of the drive means 38 can be carried out in a first direction of rotation F1, and the second portion of travel can be carried out in a second direction of rotation F2 opposite to the first direction of movement F1.

[0104] The epicyclic gear train 30 may comprise an output shaft 31, for example forming a lever arm. The output shaft 31 may be controlled in displacement by the drive means 38 when the drive means 18 performs the first portion of travel and / or the second portion of travel. The output shaft 31 may be controlled in displacement in a first direction when the drive means 38 performs the first portion of travel, and in a second direction when the drive means 38 performs the second portion of travel. Thus, the output shaft 31 is controlled in displacement by the drive means 38 when the drive means 38 performs the first portion of travel, and when the drive means 38 performs the second portion of travel. The drive means 38 is therefore configured to drive the output shaft 31 in rotation in order to control the opening and closing of the lock 12.

[0105] The first stage 32 may have an axis of rotation C. The rotation of the first stage 32 about the axis of rotation C is permitted in a first direction of rotation S1 and blocked in a second direction of rotation S2, opposite to the first direction of rotation. The second stage 34 may have an axis of rotation D. The rotation of the second stage 34 about the axis of rotation D is permitted in a first direction of rotation S1' and blocked in a second direction of rotation S2'.

[0106] When the drive means 38 performs the second portion of travel in the second direction of rotation F2, corresponding to a command to close the lock ( figure 11 ), the rotation of the second stage 34 is permitted in the first direction of rotation S1' and the rotation of the first stage 32 is blocked in the second direction of rotation S2.

[0107] When the drive means 38 performs the first portion of travel in the first direction of rotation F1, corresponding to a command to open the lock ( figure 12 ), the rotation of the first stage 32 is permitted in the first direction of rotation S1 and the rotation of the second stage 34 is blocked in the second direction of rotation S2'.

[0108] The first directions of rotation S1 and S1' correspond here to the same direction of rotation, for example the trigonometric direction, and the second directions of rotation S2 and S2' correspond to the opposite direction, for example the clockwise direction.

[0109] More specifically, the epicyclic gear train 30 may comprise a planet carrier and at least one planet carrier carried by the planet carrier. The first stage 32 corresponds to the planet carrier, and the second stage 34 corresponds to the planet carrier. Thus, the planet carrier 32 may be locked in rotation about its axis of rotation C in the second direction of rotation S2, for example by means of a blade brake or a first ratchet wheel 36; and the planet carrier 34 may be locked in rotation about its axis of rotation D in the second direction of rotation S2', for example by means of a blade brake or a second ratchet wheel 36'.Thus, the satellite carrier 32 can be locked in rotation about its axis of rotation C in the second direction of rotation S2, by a first locking means such as a blade brake or the first ratchet wheel 36; and the satellite 34 can be locked in rotation about its axis of rotation D in the second direction of rotation S2', by a second locking means such as a blade brake or the second ratchet wheel 36'. In addition, the satellite 34 is movable in rotation about the axis of rotation C of the satellite carrier 32.

[0110] There figure 13 illustrates a locking means such as the ratchet wheel 36.

[0111] The reducer 161 comprises the epicyclic gear train 30 and the first and second ratchet wheels 36.

[0112] The epicyclic gear train 30 may comprise the first pinion 38 driven in rotation by the actuator 16 for example via a worm screw of the actuator 16, the first 33 and the second 34 satellites driven in rotation by the first pinion 38, the satellite carrier 32 driven in rotation by the first 33 and the second 34 satellites, and a second pinion 37 driven in rotation by the second satellite 34.

[0113] As described above, in this example, the first pinion 38 corresponds to the drive means as previously described, the planet carrier 32 corresponds to the first stage as previously described, and the second planet 34 corresponds to the second stage as previously described.

[0114] When the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12 ( figure 11 ), the second stage 34 is driven in rotation in the first direction of rotation S1' around its axis of rotation D by the drive means 38 (via the first satellite 33), when the drive means 38 performs the second portion of travel in the second direction of rotation F2. Furthermore, the second stage 34 is configured to drive the rotation of the first stage 32 around the axis of rotation C in the second direction S2. However, as indicated above, the first stage 32 is configured to be locked in rotation in the second direction of rotation S2 around its axis of rotation C. Thus, when the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12, the rotation of the first stage 32 is locked. The second stage 34 then drives the output shaft 31 via the second pinion 37 in order to control the closing of the lock 12. The output shaft 31 can drive the bolt (not shown) into the closing position of the lock 12.Thus, when the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12, the drive means 38 drives the output shaft 31 via the second stage 34.

[0115] When the actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock 12 ( figure 12 ), the drive means 38 performs the first portion of travel in the first direction of rotation F1. In this first direction of rotation F1, the drive means 38 is configured to drive the second stage 34 in the second direction S2'. However, as indicated above, the second stage 34 is locked in rotation about its axis of rotation D in the second direction of rotation S2'. The second stage 34 being locked, it does not allow the second pinion 37 to be driven directly. When the drive means 38 performs the first portion of travel, the second stage 34 being locked in rotation in the second direction S2', it is therefore driven in rotation about the axis of rotation C of the first stage 32, via the first stage 32 in the first direction of rotation S1.In this case, the drive means 38, the first stage 32, the second stage 34 and the second pinion 37 are integral in rotation and form a block driving the output shaft 31 in order to control the opening of the lock. The output shaft 31 can drive the pawl (not shown) at a distance from the bolt (not shown), in order to allow the bolt to be movable to allow the opening of the lock 12.

[0116] When the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12, the reduction ratio of the reducer 161 is higher than when the actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock 12.

[0117] When the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12, the torque generated by the reducer 161 is higher than when the actuator controls the opening of the lock 12.

[0118] When the actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock 12, the reduction ratio of the reducer 161 is lower than when the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12.

[0119] When the actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock 12, the speed generated by the reducer is higher than when the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12.

[0120] When the actuator 16 controls the closing of the lock 12, a high torque is available.

[0121] When the actuator 16 controls the opening of the lock 12, a high speed is available.

[0122] More specifically, the figures 11 et 12 illustrate an epicyclic train comprising: the planet carrier 32 configured to be locked in rotation in the second direction of rotation S2 about its axis of rotation C, the second pinion 37 having a toothing Z1, the second planet 34, carried by the planet carrier 32, configured to be locked in rotation in the second direction of rotation S2' about its axis of rotation D, the second planet 34 having a toothing Z2 connected to the toothing Z1 of the second pinion 37, the first planet 33 carried by the planet carrier 32 and having a toothing Z2', the first pinion 38 having a first toothing Z3 connected to the toothing Z2' of the second planet 34, and a second toothing Z4, blade brakes 36 configured to respectively lock the planet carrier 32 in rotation in the second direction of rotation S2 about its axis of rotation C, and the second planet 34 in rotation in the second direction of rotation S2' about its axis of rotation D.

[0123] The second toothing Z4 of the first pinion 38 is connected to a worm screw of the actuator 16 having a toothing Z0.

[0124] There figure 11 illustrates the actuator 16 controlling the closing of the lock. It rotates the first toothing Z3 and the second toothing Z4 of the first pinion 38. The first toothing Z3 of the first pinion 38 drives the teeth Z2' and Z2 of the first 33 and second 34 satellites carried by the satellite carrier 32 in the first direction of rotation S1'. Furthermore, the first 33 and second 34 satellites are configured to rotate around the axis of rotation C of the satellite carrier 32 in the second direction of rotation S2 opposite to the first direction of rotation S1' of the satellite 34, in order to rotate it. However, the satellite carrier 32 is blocked in rotation in the second direction of rotation S2 around its axis of rotation C by the blade brake 36. Thus, the first 33 and second 34 satellites do not rotate around the axis of rotation C of the satellite carrier 32.The toothing Z2 of the second satellite 34 drives the toothing Z1 of the second pinion 37 and thus drives the second pinion 37 in rotation. The second pinion 37 then drives the output shaft 31 in order to control the closing of the lock 12. The output shaft 31 can drive the bolt (not shown) into the closed position of the lock.

[0125] There figure 12illustrates the actuator 16 controlling the opening of the lock 12. It rotates the first toothing Z3 and the second toothing Z4 of the first pinion 38. The first toothing Z3 of the first pinion 38 drives the toothing Z2' of the first satellite 33, and seeks to drive the toothing Z2 of the second satellite 34, in the second direction of rotation S2 opposite to the first direction of rotation S1' of the satellite 34. However, the second satellite 34 is blocked in rotation in the second direction of rotation S2' around its axis of rotation D by the blade brake 36. Thus, the second satellite 34 does not rotate around its axis of rotation D and does not drive the toothing Z1 of the second pinion 37. In addition, the first 33 and second 34 satellites rotate around the axis of rotation C of the satellite carrier 32 in the first direction of rotation S1 of the satellite carrier 32, in order to drive it rotating.The first pinion 38, the satellite carrier 32, the satellites 33 and 34 and the second pinion 37 are therefore integral in rotation and form a block driving the output shaft 31 in order to control the opening of the lock 12. The output shaft 31 can drive the pawl (not shown) in the open position of the lock 12.

[0126] When closing lock 12, the reduction ratio is calculated according to the following Willis formula: r = Z 4 / Z 0 . Z 3 . Z 2 / Z 2 ′ . Z 1 . − 1 y With : r corresponding to the reduction ratio, and y corresponding to the number of external contacts in the gears, making it possible to define the direction of rotation at the output of the epicyclic gear train.

[0127] When opening the lock, the reduction ratio is equal to 1.

[0128] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is obvious that modifications and changes may be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims. In particular, individual features of the various illustrated / mentioned embodiments may be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the description and drawings should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

Claims

1. A mechanism for assisting in opening / closing a latch (10) for a door leaf (100), the opening / closing assistance mechanism comprising an electric actuator (16) configured to control a closing and an opening of the latch (12), the electric actuator (16) being associated with a reducer (161) comprising a drive means (18, 38) configured to perform a displacement stroke comprising a first stroke portion for opening the latch (12), and a second stroke portion for closing the latch (12), the reducer (161) having a first reduction ratio on the first stroke portion, and a second reduction ratio on the second stroke portion, the first reduction ratio being different from the second reduction ratio, and preferably lower, in which the reducer (161) comprises a first lever arm (162) controlled in displacement by the drive means (18) when the drive means (18) performs the first stroke portion, and a second lever arm (164) controlled in displacement by the drive means (18) when the drive means (18) performs the second stroke portion, the second lever arm (164) being preferably shorter than the first lever arm (162), in which the reducer (161) comprises a transmission means (19) configured to be driven by the drive means (18), and to drive the first (162) and second (164) lever arms, in which the transmission means (19) is a wheel whose displacement stroke is a rotation and / or the drive means (18) is a wheel whose displacement stroke is a rotation, characterized in that the second lever arm (164) is arranged on the transmission means (19) so that the transmission means (19) has an axis of rotation coinciding with the second axis of rotation (B) of the second lever arm (164).

2. The opening / closing assistance mechanism according to claim 1, wherein when the drive means (18, 38) performs the first stroke portion, the reducer (161) is configured to generate a first torque and when the drive means (18, 38) performs the second stroke portion, the reducer (161) is configured to generate a second torque, the second torque being greater than the first torque.

3. The opening / closing assistance mechanism according to any of claims 1 or 2, wherein when the drive means (18, 38) performs the first stroke portion, the reducer (161) is configured to generate a first speed and when the drive means (18, 38) performs the second stroke portion, the reducer (161) is configured to generate a second speed, the first speed being greater than the second speed.

4. The opening / closing assistance mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transmission means (19) comprises a pin (20) arranged axially on the transmission means (19), and the first lever arm (162) comprises a door (22) configured to be driven by the pin (20) when the drive means (19) performs the first stroke portion.

5. The opening / closing assistance mechanism according to the preceding claim, wherein the pin (20) is configured to pass from a first side of the door (22) to a second side of the door (22) when the drive means (18) performs the first stroke portion, and the pin (20) is configured to pass from the second side of the door (22) to the first side of the door (22) when the drive means (18) performs a third stroke portion.

6. A latch comprising: - an opening / closing assistance mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5, - a bolt (121) and a pawl (122) movable between an open position of the latch and a closed position of the latch, the drive means (18, 38) being configured to drive the bolt (121) into the closed position of the latch (12) when the drive means (18, 38) performs the second stroke portion, and the drive means (18, 31) being configured to drive the pawl (122) into the open position of the latch (12) when the drive means (18, 38) performs the first stroke portion.

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