Control device

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device (10) for a vehicle part that can be moved relative to a body of a vehicle, in particular a vehicle door or a vehicle flap, comprising a housing (24) with a slider arrangement (26), wherein the slider arrangement (26) can be transferred between a first position and a second position, a control element (28) which is connected at one end to the slider arrangement (26) and has a rod-end eye (52) at a free end opposite the slider arrangement (26), which is designed to be arranged on the body of a vehicle or on a vehicle part that can be moved relative to the body, wherein the rod-end eye (52) has a rod-end eye insert (60) which engages around the inside of the rod-end eye (52) of the control element (28) and comprises a bolt receiver (60Ä) for an articulated bolt (54).

Description

[0001] Adjusting device

[0002] The invention relates to an actuating device for a vehicle part that is movable relative to a body of a vehicle, in particular a vehicle door or a vehicle flap.

[0003] An adjusting device of the type mentioned above is known, for example, from DE 102011 118 353 A1. This document shows an adjusting device for the tailgate of a vehicle.

[0004] Such actuators typically comprise a multitude of individual components, resulting in chain tolerances during the manufacturing of such an actuator. These can contribute to increased noise generation, particularly when corresponding vibrations or tolerance-related oscillations are transmitted to a vehicle body or a vehicle part that is movable relative to the vehicle body. In particular, in the area where an actuator is attached to a movable vehicle part, assembly-related angular errors can lead to noise or stability problems.

[0005] Against this background, the object of the invention is to provide an actuating device for a vehicle part movable relative to a vehicle body, which, particularly during assembly, enables good tolerance compensation and offers high reliability, thus reducing noise generated during operation. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to provide a vehicle with such an actuating device.

[0006] According to the invention, this object is achieved with regard to the actuating device by the subject matter of patent claim 1 and with regard to the vehicle by the subject matter of patent claim 20. Specifically, the object is achieved by an actuating device for a vehicle part movable relative to the body of a vehicle, in particular a vehicle door or a vehicle flap, which comprises a housing with a slide arrangement, wherein the slide arrangement can be transferred between a first position and a second position.

[0007] Furthermore, an adjusting element is provided, which is connected to the slide assembly at one end and has a joint eye at a free end opposite the slide assembly, which is designed for mounting on the body of a vehicle or a vehicle part movable relative to the body. The joint eye has a joint eye insert that surrounds the inside of the joint eye of the adjusting element and includes a pin receptacle for a joint pin.

[0008] A further aspect of the invention is a vehicle with an adjusting device for a vehicle part that is movable relative to the body of the vehicle, in particular a vehicle door or a vehicle flap.

[0009] The carriage arrangement is in particular a movable arrangement which is, for example, connected to the actuating element. In particular, the carriage arrangement can be transferred between a first position and a second position by means of a drive unit. The drive unit comprises in particular a motor, for example an electric motor, which can, for example, set a drive element in rotation. The drive element can be connected to a motor shaft or formed integrally therewith and, for example, comprise a worm with teeth. In particular, the drive element can, for example, interact, in particular mesh, directly or indirectly with a spindle which runs through the carriage arrangement in order to drive it. The carriage arrangement can then be moved by means of such a rotatable spindle, for example via a carriage nut.

[0010] The adjusting element can be a door check strap. It can be straight or, for example, S-shaped.

[0011] The joint eye comprises, in particular, a circular opening through the actuator. In particular, the joint eye is rounded around this opening at its free end. The joint eye enables, in particular, the fixation of an angle plate, for example, to the actuator, in particular by means of a hinge pin. Such an angle plate can then be screwed to a vehicle part, e.g., a tailgate.

[0012] A joint eye insert is preferably a component that at least partially lines the joint eye. Thus, the joint eye insert forms the pin receptacle, particularly at least partially within the joint eye. Thus, the joint eye insert establishes, in particular, the connection between a joint pin and the actuating element.

[0013] The bolt receptacle is in particular an opening with a minimum diameter that is equal to or less than the minimum diameter of the joint eye.

[0014] In particular, the joint eye insert can extend beyond the thickness of the adjusting element, whereby the thickness of the bolt receptacle can also be greater than the thickness of the joint eye.

[0015] The advantage of the adjusting device with the ball joint insert, which includes a bolt receptacle, is that the ball joint insert can mount a pivot pin silently and securely. This allows for the assembly of an angle plate, for example, to accommodate larger tolerances, e.g., with respect to the position of the angle plate relative to the adjusting element, while maintaining consistent strength and reliability. The pivot pin can also shift within the ball joint insert during operation of the adjusting device, enabling complex yet quiet adjustment processes. A connection created in this way also generates less noise because there are no spontaneous shifts during operation of the adjusting device, as can happen with a fixed bolt, for example.

[0016] The joint eye insert preferably comprises a first joint eye insert element and a second joint eye insert element, which are connected to one another in a materially bonded or form-fitting manner. For example, the first joint eye insert element can be arranged in the region of the adjusting element above the joint eye, while the second joint eye insert element can be arranged in the region of the adjusting element below the joint eye. In particular, the division can be designed such that, for example, the first joint eye insert element extends through the entire joint eye, and the second joint eye insert element secures the first joint eye insert element on a side outside the joint eye.

[0017] Dividing the ball joint insert into at least two parts has the advantage of allowing for easy assembly of the ball joint insert to the actuator. In particular, this simple assembly also allows the ball joint insert to be designed in such a way that it also surrounds and protects the outer area of ​​the actuator, while still being quick and easy to install.

[0018] Alternatively, the joint eye insert can also be made in one piece.

[0019] In a particularly preferred embodiment of all the above variants of the invention, the joint eye insert has a centering contour for aligning a joint pin upon insertion into the pin receptacle, wherein the centering contour is designed to be plastically deformable. The centering contour has, in particular, a contour opening that is radially centered relative to the pin receptacle. In particular, the centering contour consists of an easily deformable material, e.g., a plastic, especially a thermoset. The centering contour can be collar-shaped or aperture-shaped and can be located, for example, on the inner wall of the pin receptacle.

[0020] The centering contour has the effect that when a hinge pin is inserted into the pin receptacle, the hinge pin is centered in the pin receptacle by the centering contour. If the hinge pin, for example, hits a part of the centering contour with a mounting chamfer on the end of the hinge pin, it is subjected to a force that forces it into a centered alignment. This ensures that a hinge pin is initially centered in the pin receptacle after installation. This makes for a particularly quick and easy adjustment device. At the same time, the plastic deformability ensures that the hinge pin is not prevented from moving by the centering contour after installation in the pin receptacle. This means that the hinge pin can be relocated later, with the centering contour being plastically deformed and not hindering the movement of the hinge pin.In particular, a spherical section of the pivot pin can be mounted in such a way that a ball-and-socket joint effect is possible within certain limits. This allows for quick assembly of the pivot pin while allowing free movement afterward. This makes the actuator particularly easy to install, offering good robustness and low noise generation due to pin displacement.

[0021] In a preferred variant of the invention, the centering contour has a plurality of projections formed in the interior of the bolt receptacle. The plurality of projections extend radially inward relative to the bolt receptacle. In particular, the contour opening is located between a plurality of free ends of the plurality of projections. The plurality comprises, in particular, at least four, preferably at least six, projections. The height of the projections is preferably less than 50% of a maximum opening diameter of the bolt receptacle.

[0022] The projections allow for effective centering of the pivot pin during assembly, while the projections are highly malleable. This, in turn, results in particularly good mobility of the pivot pin after installation. This makes the actuator particularly easy to install and particularly quiet.

[0023] Preferably, the plurality of projections are knob-shaped or rib-shaped. In particular, they can have the shape of cylinders, prisms, waves, or bumps on an inner wall of the bolt receptacle. In particular, the projections are chamfered on a side facing the center of the bolt receptacle. Rib-shaped means in particular that the individual projections extend over a region of the thickness of the bolt receptacle (i.e. in particular orthogonal to a circumference of the joint eye) that is longer than a width of the projections. Tests have shown that a large number of knob-shaped or rib-shaped projections center a joint pin particularly well when inserted into the bolt receptacle, but have particularly little impact on its subsequent mobility.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the joint eye insert has a bearing inside the bolt receptacle for supporting an at least partially spherical portion of a joint bolt.

[0025] The bearing can be a concave bulge on the inner wall of the pin receptacle. In particular, the bearing is shaped like a tapered portion within the pin receptacle. This allows the adjusting device to accommodate pivot pins with a partially spherical section. This type of bearing allows the position of the pivot pin to be changed within the pin receptacle while maintaining high stability. Furthermore, this type of bearing prevents the occurrence of noise, for example, when the pivot pin is displaced. This makes the adjusting device particularly quiet.

[0026] Preferably, the bearing comprises at least one groove inside the pin receptacle to form a lubricant bearing. This groove allows lubricant to be accommodated, so that the pin connection formed by a hinge pin and the pin receptacle is well lubricated and permanently wear-free. This makes the adjusting device according to the invention particularly durable and quiet.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the centering contour and the bolt receptacle are arranged on the first joint eye insert element. In particular, the first joint eye insert element completely penetrates the joint eye. In particular, the second joint eye insert element fixes the joint eye insert in one axial direction of movement, while the first joint eye insert element fixes the joint eye insert in the opposite direction.

[0028] In this way, an easily manufactured centering contour can be positioned relatively deep within the bolt receptacle, while the ball joint insert remains very easy to install. Alternatively, the centering contour can also be arranged on the second ball joint insert element. In a preferred variant of all the above embodiments, the ball joint insert comprises a bayonet connection for positioning a ball joint pin that can be inserted into the bolt receptacle. In particular, bulges can be fixed on the bolt of the bayonet connection, for example.

[0029] The bayonet connection allows the pivot pin inserted into the bolt receptacle to be positioned and secured. This creates a particularly easy-to-install adjustment device.

[0030] In a preferred variant, the bayonet connection has at least a first locking lug, which is arranged on an edge of the joint eye insert. It can be designed, for example, as a formation within the bolt receptacle on an edge of the joint eye insert. For example, a recess in a spherical section of a joint pin can allow insertion of the joint pin, while rotation of the joint pin in the bolt receptacle ensures that the spherical section interacts with the locking lug and thus fixes the pin. In particular, the joint eye insert can comprise a second locking lug, which is opposite the first locking lug, for example.

[0031] The locking lug serves, in particular, to secure a spherical section of a hinge pin and thus prevent the hinge pin from escaping from the pin receptacle. This creates a robust bayonet connection with a simple design and thus low manufacturing costs. Alternatively, the bayonet connection can also be designed without a locking lug, for example, but instead have grooves into which a pin of a hinge pin can engage.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adjusting device has a hinge pin which is inserted into the pin receptacle and secured by means of the bayonet connection.

[0033] This allows the inventive adjusting device to be used immediately, with the pivot pin and the pin receptacle being designed to correspond to each other, e.g., with respect to the circumference of the pivot pin and an at least partially spherical section of the pivot pin. The length of the pivot pin can also be adapted to the thickness of the pin receptacle. This creates a particularly robust adjusting device.

[0034] The hinge pin preferably has an at least partially spherical section, wherein the at least partially spherical section comprises a bulge which is formed to correspond with the first locking lug. In particular, the bulge is a concave depression in the spherical section. This allows the hinge pin to be easily inserted into the hinge pin receptacle by the bulge passing the locking lug. As soon as the hinge pin is inserted, it can be fixed in the pin receptacle by axial rotation. The hinge pin is still mounted in the pin receptacle so that it can rotate and pivot, which makes the adjusting device as a whole particularly quiet. Alternatively, the hinge pin can also comprise, for example, a collar shaped to correspond to the locking lug, which fixes it in the pin receptacle.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the first joint eye insert element and the second joint eye insert element can be screwed together by means of a thread. This can be achieved, for example, via an external thread on the first joint eye insert element and a corresponding internal thread on the second joint eye insert element.

[0036] This connection has the advantage of being independent of the thickness of the adjusting element and the ball joint. This allows the two ball joint insert elements to be easily screwed together according to their respective thickness, for example, up to a specified torque. This results in high manufacturing tolerance and particularly high reliability, as well as low noise, of the inventive adjusting device.

[0037] Alternatively, the ball joint insert elements can also be connected using an adhesive and / or connecting pins.

[0038] Preferably, the centering contour is arranged on the second joint eye insert element and is configured in the shape of a hexagon socket. The centering contour can be configured outside the joint eye, e.g., like a type of cover, in front of the rest of the bolt receptacle. Tests have shown that the shape of a hexagon socket provides effective centering while simultaneously allowing the centering contour to be easily manufactured. Alternatively, it is also possible to arrange the wear contour on the first joint eye insert element. It is also possible for the wear contour to be configured, for example, in a star shape.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the joint eye insert has a clamping unit for clamping a joint bolt that can be inserted into the bolt receptacle.

[0040] This makes it easy to secure a hinge pin in the pin receptacle. Alternatively, the hinge pin insert can also be designed without a clamping unit.

[0041] Preferably, the clamping unit comprises elastic clamping elements arranged on an edge of the ball joint insert. These can be made of plastic, for example, silicone rubber. The edge refers in particular to an area near an opening in the bolt receptacle, particularly on a side opposite the centering contour.

[0042] This has the advantage that the clamping unit can be easily inserted after inserting a hinge pin. Furthermore, the edge arrangement allows for a hinge pin with a partially spherical section to be easily placed in the pin receptacle.

[0043] Alternatively, the clamping elements can also be placed centrally in the bolt receptacle.

[0044] Preferably, the clamping elements are banana-shaped and arranged opposite one another. In particular, the clamping unit comprises two banana-shaped clamping elements.

[0045] The clamping elements are designed to be elastically or plastically deformable. In particular, both clamping elements are arranged on a ring.

[0046] The clamping elements allow the pivot pin to be easily inserted into the pin receptacle, where it is automatically secured. This allows for particularly simple installation of the pivot pin, making the actuator particularly easy to install.

[0047] Preferably, the adjusting device according to the invention has a hinge pin which is inserted into the pin receptacle and clamped by means of the clamping unit.

[0048] This allows the inventive adjusting device to be used immediately, with the hinge pin and the pin receptacle being designed to correspond to each other, e.g., with respect to the circumference of the hinge pin and an at least partially spherical section of the hinge pin. The length of the hinge pin can also be adapted to the thickness of the pin receptacle. This creates a particularly robust adjusting device.

[0049] In a preferred variant of all the above-mentioned embodiments of the invention, the adjusting device comprises a retaining plate for arrangement on a vehicle part, wherein the hinge pin can be inserted into an opening in the retaining plate and is designed to be non-rotatable relative to the retaining plate. The retaining plate can in particular be an angled plate. Because the hinge pin and the retaining plate are designed to be non-rotatable, any rotation between the retaining plate and the adjusting element is absorbed by a hinge pin-pin receiving connection which is particularly optimized for such processes. This makes the adjusting device particularly quiet. Furthermore, the adjusting device according to the invention thus allows for particularly reliable and robust fastening with a high tolerance.

[0050] A secondary aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle with a previously described actuating device. The present invention relates to an actuating device for a vehicle part that is movable relative to a vehicle body, in particular a vehicle door or a vehicle tailgate.

[0051] The present invention will be described below using several exemplary embodiments. Identical or identical or similar components are provided with the same reference numerals. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into further meaningful combinations. Individual or multiple exemplary embodiments can therefore advantageously be combined with one another.

[0052] They represent:

[0053] Figure 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0054] Figure 2 is a side view of the adjusting device from Figure 1;

[0055] Figure 3 is a spatial representation of a housing of a further embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0056] Figure 4 shows a cross-section of the housing of the adjusting device from Figure 3;

[0057] Figure 5 is a spatial representation of a carriage arrangement with an articulated actuating element of a further embodiment of an actuating device according to the invention;

[0058] Figure 6 shows a cross-section of the carriage arrangement from Figure 5;

[0059] Figure 7 shows a section of a side cross-section of a further embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0060] Figure 8 shows an enlarged cross-section of a motor shaft preload assembly from Figure 7;

[0061] Figure 9 is a spatial representation of the assembly from Figure 8;

[0062] Figure 10 is a side view of the assembly of Figure 8;

[0063] Figure 11 is a spatial representation of a carriage arrangement with a

[0064] Spindle nut of a further embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0065] Figure 12 shows a cross-section of the carriage arrangement from Figure 11;

[0066] Figure 13 is a side view of the slide assembly of Figure 11; Figure 14 is a three-dimensional view of a joint eye of a further embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0067] Figure 15 shows a cross-section of the joint eye from Figure 14;

[0068] Figure 16 is a spatial representation of a joint eye of a further embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0069] Figure 17 shows a cross-section of the joint eye from Figure 16 with joint bolt and retaining plate;

[0070] Figure 18 is a spatial representation of a joint eye of another

[0071] Embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0072] Figure 19 shows a cross section of a housing with a cover of another

[0073] Embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0074] Figure 20 shows an enlarged section X of the housing with cover from Figure 19;

[0075] Figure 21 is a three-dimensional representation of the housing with lid from Figure 19;

[0076] Figure 22 is a spatial representation of a sealing arrangement of a further embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention;

[0077] Figure 23 shows a cross-section of the sealing arrangement from Figure 22;

[0078] Figure 24 is a side cross-sectional view of a further embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention with two positions of the carriage arrangement;

[0079] Figure 25 is a spatial representation of a carriage arrangement with an articulated actuating element of a further embodiment of an actuating device according to the invention;

[0080] Figure 26 shows a cross-section of the carriage arrangement arranged in the housing according to Figure 25;

[0081] Figure 27 shows a perspective view of a housing of an actuating device according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment, with a fastening element for connection to a vehicle; Figure 27A shows a further perspective view of a housing of an actuating device according to the invention according to an additional embodiment;

[0082] Figure 28A is a perspective view of a fastening element of the

[0083] Adjusting device according to Fig. 27 comparable fastening element;

[0084] Figure 28B is a perspective rear view of the fastening element of the

[0085] Adjusting device according to Figure 27;

[0086] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 28A;

[0087] Figure 30 is a perspective bottom view of the fastening element according to Figure 28A;

[0088] Figure 31 is a perspective view of a carriage arrangement with an articulated actuating element according to a preferred embodiment of the actuating device according to the invention;

[0089] Figure 32 is a vertical section through the end of the adjusting element according to Figure 31, which is formed with a ball pin;

[0090] Figure 32A is a horizontal section through the end of the adjusting element according to Figure 31, which is formed with a ball pin;

[0091] Figure 32B shows a horizontal section according to Figure 32A, wherein the adjusting element has an anti-twist device for the ball pin;

[0092] Figure 32C shows a horizontal section according to Figure 32A, wherein the adjusting element has an alternative anti-twist device for the ball pin;

[0093] Figure 33 is a perspective view of the carriage arrangement according to Figure 31 without the articulated actuating element;

[0094] Figure 34 is a vertical section through the carriage arrangement according to Figure 31;

[0095] Figure 34A shows a ball pin on an actuating element according to a further embodiment of the actuating device according to the invention;

[0096] Figure 34B is a vertical section through a slide assembly with a ball stud according to Figure 34A; Figure 34C is a further vertical section through a slide assembly with a ball stud according to Figure 34A;

[0097] Figure 34D is a perspective view of a ball stud in a

[0098] Ball head holder in a further embodiment of the adjusting device according to the invention;

[0099] Figure 35 is a perspective sectional view of the housing of the actuating device according to the invention in the region of the drive element according to a preferred embodiment;

[0100] Figure 36A is a perspective view of a plastic element for covering the free end of the drive element according to Figure 35;

[0101] Figure 36B is a perspective view of the drive element according to Figure 35 with the plastic element according to Figure 36A;

[0102] Figure 36C is a sectional view of the plastic element according to Figure 36A;

[0103] Figure 36D is a perspective view of a plastic element of an adjusting device according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment;

[0104] Figure 37A is a perspective view of a housing for the drive unit with a reservoir for liquefied plastic;

[0105] Figure 37B is a perspective front view of the housing of Figure 37A;

[0106] Figure 37C is a further perspective view of the housing for the drive unit with a reservoir for liquefied plastic according to Figure 37A;

[0107] Figure 37D is a further perspective view of the housing for the drive unit with a reservoir for liquefied plastic according to Figure 37A;

[0108] Figure 38 is a perspective view of a bushing for placement between the drive element and the housing of the actuator;

[0109] Figure 39A is a perspective view of a slide assembly of the adjusting device according to the invention with a receiving opening for a spindle nut; Figure 39B is a further perspective view of the slide assembly according to Figure 39A with the spindle nut inserted;

[0110] Figure 40 is a side view of the carriage assembly shown in Figure 39B when inserting the spindle nut;

[0111] Figure 41 is a side view of the carriage assembly of Figure 39B with the spindle nut inserted;

[0112] Figure 42 is a perspective view of the joint eye of the adjusting element with a two-part joint eye insert, wherein a second joint eye insert element has a centering contour;

[0113] Figure 43 is a perspective view from below of the joint eye according to Figure 42;

[0114] Figure 44 is a sectional view of the joint eye with inserted joint pin according to a further embodiment;

[0115] Figure 45 is a perspective side view of the joint eye according to Figure 44;

[0116] Figure 46 is a perspective view from below of the joint eye according to Figure 45;

[0117] Figure 47 is a perspective sectional view of the first joint eye insert element of the joint insert for the joint eye according to Figure 46;

[0118] Figure 48 is a perspective sectional view of the second joint eye insert element of the joint insert for the joint eye according to Figure 46;

[0119] Figure 49 in hinge pin for a joint eye according to a preferred embodiment;

[0120] Figure 50 shows a retaining plate for fastening the adjusting device to a vehicle;

[0121] Figure 51 shows an arrangement of the adjusting element with a retaining plate, wherein a

[0122] The hinge pin passes through the retaining plate and the hinge eye, so that a pivot bearing connection is formed;

[0123] Figure 52 is a sectional view of the arrangement according to Figure 51;

[0124] Figure 53 is a perspective rear view of a cover of the housing of an adjusting device according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 54 is a perspective side view of an end of the housing of the adjusting device closed with the cover according to Figure 53;

[0125] Figure 55 is a perspective rear view of a sealing element of the adjusting device according to the invention according to a preferred embodiment;

[0126] Figure 56 is a perspective front view of a sealing element according to a further preferred embodiment;

[0127] Figure 57A is a perspective sectional view through the sealing element according to Figure 55;

[0128] Figure 57B is a perspective side view of an actuating element with the sealing element arranged thereon;

[0129] Figure 58 is a perspective front view of the housing of an actuating device according to the invention according to a preferred embodiment, with a sealing arrangement inserted therein;

[0130] Figure 59 is a perspective view of the sealing arrangement of Figure 58;

[0131] Figure 60 is a perspective front view of the slide arrangement of the adjusting device according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment with compensating elements for tolerance compensation; and

[0132] Figure 61 is a side view of the carriage arrangement according to Figure 60.

[0133] In Figure 1, an actuating device according to the invention is generally designated by the reference numeral 10. The actuating device 10 comprises a drive arrangement 12 with a drive unit 14 and a drive element 16 driven by the drive unit 14. The drive element 16, which is designed here as a worm which is rotationally driven by the drive unit 14 designed as an electric motor, meshes with a worm wheel 18. The worm wheel 18 is fixedly arranged on a spindle 20, so that rotation of the drive element 16 causes rotation of the worm wheel 18 and thus of the spindle 20. The drive element 16 can be formed integrally with a motor shaft 42 of the drive unit or, alternatively, can be connected to it.The spindle 20 is in threaded engagement with a spindle nut 22, wherein the spindle nut 22 is arranged in a rotationally secured manner relative to a housing 24 of the adjusting device 10 and is thus displaceable axially along a rotation axis R of the spindle 20 upon rotation of the spindle 20.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment of the adjusting device 10, the spindle nut 22 is part of a carriage arrangement 26, which, together with the spindle nut 22, can be displaced along the rotational axis R of the spindle 20 upon rotation of the spindle 20. On an upper side of the carriage arrangement 26 in Figure 1, the latter is connected to an adjusting element 28, which here is designed as a straight door check strap. Alternatively, the adjusting element 28 could also be S-shaped, wherein this S-shape can extend essentially in a plane that is aligned parallel to the rotational axis R of the spindle 20 and orthogonal to the plane of the page in Figure 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjusting element 28 has a round cross-section. Alternatively, it can also be rectangular or approximately oval.

[0135] The actuating element 28 is connected at its free end, shown on the left in Figure 1, to a movable vehicle part, such as a side door of a vehicle (not shown), or alternatively to a vehicle body (not shown). At its end opposite the free end, the actuating element 28 is connected to the carriage assembly 26 via a pivot axis 30 such that movement of the actuating element 28 out of the plane of the drawing in Figure 1 about the pivot axis 30 or about the imaginary axis of rotation S is possible.

[0136] Upon activation of the drive unit 14, the spindle 20 is thus set in rotation, whereby the actuating element 28 is displaced via the slide arrangement 26 along a displacement axis V, which in the neutral position of the actuating element 28 and the slide arrangement 26 shown in Figure 1 (see further below) coincides with a central axis of the just formed actuating element 28.

[0137] In order to also enable a certain movement of the free end of the adjusting element in an up and down direction in Figure 1, in the illustrated embodiment, the part of the slide assembly 26 to which the adjusting element 28 is connected is arranged so as to be tiltable relative to the spindle nut 22. For this purpose, the longitudinal ends of the spindle nut 22 can be provided with a curvature which corresponds to the curvature of a circle whose center coincides with a center of the longitudinal extent of the spindle nut 22 and the rotation axis R of the spindle 20 and which has a radius which corresponds to the distance from the center of the circle to a longitudinal end of the spindle nut 22. In an analogous manner, those surfaces of the remaining slide assembly 26 which are in contact with the spindle nut 22 can be curved.

[0138] The slide assembly 26 can comprise at least one guide section 32 in the region of the spindle nut 22 and / or in a section separate therefrom, via which the slide assembly 26 is guided in the housing 24 of the actuating device 10. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, the slide assembly 26 comprises a corresponding guide section 22 both in the region of the spindle nut 22 and in a further section. For reasons of symmetrical force distribution, these two guide sections can also be present on the opposite side of the slide assembly 26, which is not visible in Figure 1.

[0139] In order to protect the interior of the actuating device 10 from contamination, the actuating device 10 in the embodiment shown comprises a sealing arrangement 34 which is arranged between the actuating element 28 and the housing 24.

[0140] In general, however, the adjusting device 10 can also be designed without a sealing arrangement 34. In this case, it may be advantageous for the housing 24, for example, to be provided with at least one drain hole so that moisture that has entered the housing 24 can escape.

[0141] Figure 2 shows a side view of the adjusting device 10 according to the invention from Figure 1. It can be seen that the central axis M of the drive element 16 is arranged at an angle to a plane which is defined by the displacement axis V of the adjusting element 28 (in the neutral position of the adjusting element 28 and the carriage arrangement 26 as shown in Figure 1) and the rotation axis R of the spindle 20. As can be seen in particular in Figure 2, a lower section of the drive arrangement 12 in Figure 2 can thus be displaced into an area vertically below the spindle 20. This makes it possible to reduce the required installation space, in particular the installation space which lies to the right of the drive arrangement 12 in Figure 2.Furthermore, the inventive design of the actuating device 10 allows a movable attachment of the housing 24 of the actuating device 10 to the vehicle body or to the movable vehicle part to be converted into a rigid attachment, whereby additional space requirements can be saved.

[0142] The actuating device 10 shown is intended in particular for mounting on the movable vehicle part. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the drive arrangement 12 is arranged on a front side of the actuating device 10, wherein the front side is understood to be a side of the actuating device 10 facing the free end of the actuating element 28. Due to the limited installation space on the movable vehicle part, however, it may be advantageous to provide a reverse arrangement of the drive arrangement 12. In other words, it may be advantageous, due to installation space constraints, to arrange the drive arrangement 12 on a rear side of the actuating device 10 facing away from the free end of the actuating element 28. In this case, an angled arrangement of the central axis M of the drive element 16 shown in Figure 2 can be omitted, and a more compact design can be achieved.A further advantage of this reverse arrangement of the drive assembly 12 is the resulting possibility of easily constructing the actuating device 10 with the same design for both sides of the vehicle, i.e., for the left and right sides. Only a 180° tilt is necessary.

[0143] The basic structure and function of these two embodiments, which differ in the arrangement of the drive unit 12, are basically identical.

[0144] In order to ensure that the adjusting device 10 can be clearly identified, for example, by a workshop employee even when installed, without having to remove it from the vehicle or the side door, suitable markings are provided on the adjusting device 10. However, since these markings should not be visible to an end customer / driver of the vehicle, the adjusting element 28 can advantageously be labeled on a side wall which, when installed, faces away from the passenger compartment of the vehicle. When installed, this side wall of the adjusting element 28 faces, for example, the side door and is not visible to an end customer of the vehicle. When the adjusting device 10 is tilted by 180° on the other side of the vehicle, the marking is also located on the side wall of the adjusting element 28 facing away from the passenger compartment.

[0145] As a further advantageous marking method, it is conceivable to mark the actuator 28 using a suitable lacquer, which can only be made visible using a suitable light source. For example, a UV lacquer can be used, which only becomes visible with the aid of a UV lamp.

[0146] Figure 3 shows a housing 24 of a further exemplary embodiment of an adjusting device 10 according to the invention, which essentially corresponds to the adjusting device 10 described above. The housing 24 of this embodiment is a profile tube, preferably made of aluminum, with an open profile structure, which has longitudinal grooves or channels 37 at least at corner points 35. In order to easily create an additional fastening point for the adjusting device 10, a fastening element 36 is provided which is adapted to the profile tube and is fastened to the housing 24 by means of a frictional and / or positive connection. The fastening element 36 can be fastened, for example, by a rivet 33 or a screw.As can be seen from Figure 4, which shows a cross-section of the housing 24 with the fastening element 36, the fastening element 36 has a plate-shaped sub-element to which a fastening bolt 31 is molded or fastened. The plate-shaped sub-element and the fastening bolt 31 extend in an orthogonal direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the actuating element 10. An arm-shaped sub-element of the fastening element 36 encompasses an upper side of the housing 24, wherein the fastening element 36 engages in three of the longitudinal grooves 37 and is fastened in one of the longitudinal grooves 37 as described above. The fastening element 36 enables an additional fastening point that can be flexibly adapted to the installation space.

[0147] Figures 5 and 6 show a slide assembly 26 with an adjusting element 28 articulated thereto of a further exemplary embodiment of an adjusting device 10 according to the invention, which essentially corresponds to the adjusting device 10 described above. The adjusting element 28 is connected to the slide assembly 26 by means of a ball joint connection, wherein the ball joint connection comprises a ball pin 38 immovably connected to the adjusting element 28 and a ball socket 40 formed in the slide assembly 26. As can be seen from Figure 6, the ball socket 40 is provided in one piece with the slide assembly 26, which is preferably made of a plastic. The ball pin, which is preferably provided as a cold-extruded part, can be connected to the adjusting element, which can be provided as a stamped part, in a form-fitting manner or in a form-fitting and force-fitting manner by means of forming processes, preferably riveting.For easy attachment of the ball stud 38, pin-shaped fastening elements (not shown) can be provided, which penetrate the slide assembly 26 and fix a ball head of the ball stud 38 rotatably in the ball socket 40 with as little play as possible. For this purpose, the slide assembly 26 has through holes 39, as shown, for example, in Figure 6.

[0148] Figure 7 shows a section of a side cross section of a further embodiment of an adjusting device 10 according to the invention, which essentially corresponds to the adjusting device 10 described above.

[0149] In this embodiment, the drive unit 14 is also an electric motor, whose motor shaft 42 or drive unit 16 is mounted in an axially preloaded manner in a drive housing 84 connected to the housing 24. It should be noted at this point that the drive housing 84 is considered part of the housing 24 and can optionally be formed integrally therewith. The motor shaft 42, which here is formed integrally with the drive element 16, bears against an assembly for axial motor shaft preload.The assembly shown in Figures 8 to 10 comprises a plastic element 46 with a spherical segment-shaped, convex, concave or flat contact surface for the motor shaft 42, a screw 48 which can be screwed into the drive housing 84 and which rests against the plastic element 46 and is connected to it in a captive manner by means of two undercuts 41, as well as a spring element 50 which is arranged or encapsulated between the plastic element 46 and the screw 48.

[0150] The axial preload, i.e., the tightening of screw 48, allows for the reduction of chain tolerances of individual components, thus preventing or minimizing any resulting noise. The encapsulated spring element 50 also allows for temperature compensation, ensuring a constant preload force on motor shaft 42 across all temperatures, thus enabling quiet motor operation.

[0151] Figures 11 to 13 show a slide arrangement 26 with a spindle nut 22 arranged therein of a further embodiment of an adjusting device 10 according to the invention, which essentially corresponds to the adjusting device 10 described above.

[0152] As can be seen from Figures 11 to 13, the spindle nut 22 of the exemplary embodiment has, in cross-section, two different outer circumferences 43, 45 with a common center point M, whereby the spindle nut 22 can be tilted in the slide assembly 26, while simultaneously supporting a torsional moment. A first outer circumference 43 is larger than a second outer circumference 45. An inner contour 47 of the slide assembly 26 is adapted thereto and has analogous inner surfaces. Transition surfaces 49 between the outer circumferences 43 and 45 also allow the tilting movement to be limited. Damage to the spindle drive can be ruled out, particularly in the event of improper handling of the adjusting device 10.Therefore, it is necessary to arrange the spindle nut 22 in the slide assembly 26 in a tiltable manner, whereby the tilting function must not have any negative effects on the torque absorption required for the function in the slide assembly 26. Due to the different outer circumferences 43, 45 of the spindle nut and the correspondingly adapted inner contour 47 of the slide assembly 26, the support of the torque via the second outer circumference 45 of the spindle nut 22 can be ensured despite the tilting function.

[0153] Figures 14 to 18 show, in spatial or sectional representation, several further embodiments of an adjusting device 10 according to the invention, which essentially corresponds to the adjusting device 10 described above.

[0154] The adjusting element 28, which is only partially shown, has at its end facing away from the carriage assembly 26 a joint eye 52 with a joint eye insert 60, wherein the joint eye 52 is connected to a retaining plate 56 by means of a joint pin 54 shown in Figure 15. The embodiments according to Figures 14 to 18 have in common that the joint eye 52 each has means for compensating for angular errors in a retaining plate fastening.

[0155] The retaining plate 56 (also called an angle plate) is attached to the vehicle (vehicle door or body). A twisted attachment of the retaining plate 56 affects the coordinated movement geometries and leads to a detuning of the system. To avoid the laborious installation of the retaining plate 56 using a template, the invention allows for angular errors in the area of ​​the joint eye 52 to be compensated, so that this error does not further affect the downstream system.

[0156] Figures 14 and 15 show a further exemplary embodiment. The joint eye 52 of the adjusting element 28 has the joint eye insert 60, which in this exemplary embodiment is manufactured by overmolding or welding the joint eye 52. As can be seen from the figures, the joint eye insert 60 has a crimp rib 58 with a comb structure on both the top and bottom sides, which allows for compensation of angular errors in the axial direction. Compensation is achieved by deforming the crimp rib 58 in the event of incorrect screwing of the retaining plate 56. The comb structure stabilizes the system beforehand, preventing the angle plate 56 from twisting arbitrarily during screwing without the need for a template.

[0157] Figure 16 shows a further exemplary embodiment which, in contrast to the previous exemplary embodiment, has a wave-shaped wear or centering contour 59 on the underside of the joint eye insert 60, which enables compensation of angular errors in the radial direction. The compensation occurs through wear of the contour in the event of incorrect screwing of the retaining plate 56. A detailed description of the centering contour 59 can be found in the exemplary embodiments described below according to Figures 42 to 47. According to the further exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 17 and 18, the joint eye insert 60 can be formed in two parts and comprise a first joint eye insert element 61 and a second joint eye insert element 62. The first joint eye insert element 61 and the second joint eye insert element 62 can be connected, for example, by a material fit or a form fit.Figure 17 shows a screw connection between the joint eye insert elements 61, 62. This connection has the advantage that it is independent of the thickness of the joint eye 52 of the adjusting element 28.

[0158] Figure 18, on the other hand, shows a bayonet connection between the joint eye insert elements 61, 62.

[0159] Alternatively, a material-to-material connection of the joint eye insert elements 61, 62 is possible, in which case, for example, ultrasonic welding can be used to connect the two joint eye insert elements 61, 62.

[0160] As already described for the embodiment according to Figure 3, the housing 24 can be a profile tube which is closed on the side facing away from the drive arrangement 12 by means of a cover 64.

[0161] According to a further embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 19 to 21, the cover 64 can be fixed to the profile tube without additional components. The plastic cover 64 has molded domes 66 for this purpose, which engage in the longitudinal grooves / channels 37 at the corners 35 or side surfaces of the housing 24 and are fixed therein by deforming the housing 24. The cover 64 has at least three, preferably seven, domes 66.

[0162] Figure 20, which shows an enlarged section of the housing 24 in the region of a longitudinal groove 37, illustrates the deformation of the housing 24. The deformation is carried out, for example, by a pin, with which the material of the longitudinal groove 37 is deformed in the direction of the dome 66, so that the dome 66 is securely fixed to the housing 24.

[0163] A further embodiment of the invention according to Figures 22 and 23 shows a sealing arrangement 34 of an actuating device 10 according to the invention, which essentially corresponds to the actuating device 10 described above. The actuating element 28 generally has a rectangular cross-section and protrudes from the housing in a sealed manner by means of the sealing arrangement 34. The sealing arrangement 34 is advantageously designed as a bellows sleeve combined with a rod wiper and has a fastening section 67, a stripping section 69 arranged axially movably on the actuating element 28, and a bellows section 68 located therebetween. The fastening section 67 is clamped between the housing 24 and the drive housing 84 connected thereto, and the stripping section 69 bears sealingly against the actuating element 28 with an opening 78 adapted to the cross-section of the actuating element 28.

[0164] The bellows section 68 of the sealing arrangement 34 is designed to be able to follow the pivoting and tilting movements as well as pendulum movements of the actuating element 28 and to ensure axial stability for the wiping effect.

[0165] Figure 24 shows a side cross-sectional view of a further embodiment of an adjusting device according to the invention, wherein the carriage arrangement 26 is shown in the two end positions.

[0166] As already described above, the housing 24 is also a profile tube and is closed on the side facing away from the drive assembly 12 by means of a cover 64. The cover 64 shown here additionally has a drainage opening 70, which can be sealed by means of a piston geometry 72 arranged on the slide assembly 26 in an end position of the slide assembly 26 facing the cover 64. Despite existing sealing measures, it cannot be ruled out that water will penetrate into the actuating device 10 in the area of ​​the actuating element 28. It is therefore advantageous if the water that has penetrated can be drained out of the actuating device 10 via the drainage opening 70 when the vehicle door is opened. The piston geometry 72 arranged on the slide assembly 26 closes the drainage opening 70 when the vehicle door is closed.For this purpose, the piston geometry 72 has a radial seal which, in the end position, seals off the drainage opening 70 or a projection 71 formed on the cover 64. A further advantageous embodiment of an actuating device 10 according to the invention, which essentially corresponds to the actuating device 10 described above, is shown in Figures 25 and 26. The slide assembly 26 shown in Figure 25 has at least a first and a second guide section 32 (32A, 32B) for guidance in the housing 24, wherein a guide rail 74 is fixed to the guide section 32 essentially without play. Optionally, a third guide section 32C can be provided on the slide assembly 26.

[0167] The housing 24 has prismatic sliding or guide surfaces 77 for guiding the carriage arrangement 26, wherein corresponding prismatic sliding or guide surfaces 75 are formed on each guide rail 74, which is pressed onto the guide section 32 without play, for example.

[0168] In order to enable the sliding surfaces 75 to be guided on the guide surfaces 77 of the housing 24 with as little play as possible, at least one of the two guide rails 74 has means for self-adjusting play reduction.

[0169] The self-adjusting play reduction between the slide assembly 26 and the housing 24 can be achieved, for example, by spring-loaded adjusting elements 76, which are mounted perpendicular to the direction of displacement of the slide assembly 26. Spring elements 80 used for this purpose can be adapted to the application and load case without structural changes to the slide assembly or the guide.

[0170] This arrangement makes it possible to produce a virtually play-free linear guide of the slide assembly 26 as well as a defined, constant frictional torque between the slide assembly 26 and the housing 24.

[0171] In other words, it is possible to create a virtually play-free linear guide for the slide assembly 26 and a defined, constant frictional moment between the slide assembly 26 and the housing 24, so that a required holding force, for example, of a vehicle door, can be fully or partially reproduced. A further advantage of applying friction at this active point of the actuating device 10 is a uniform base load, which leads to quieter operation of the entire system. According to a further embodiment (not shown), the guide rails 74 can also be injection-molded onto the slide assembly 26 using a two-component injection molding process.

[0172] Likewise, when using a suitable material, it is conceivable to form the carriage arrangement 26 in one piece with the guide rails 74.

[0173] Figure 27 shows a housing 24 of an actuating device 10 according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment. The housing 24 is preferably formed as an extruded aluminum profile. The housing 24 has receptacles 37A in the form of longitudinal grooves 37, which can be formed integrally with the extruded profile. The receptacles 37A or the longitudinal grooves 37 are distributed over the housing 24 and are preferably aligned symmetrically to one another with respect to a high center plane of the housing 24. In particular, the longitudinal grooves 37 run parallel to one another. A fastening element 36 is provided for fastening the actuating device 10 to a vehicle, for example a vehicle part movable relative to a vehicle body or for fastening to the body of the vehicle itself.The fastening element 36 is designed essentially analogously to the fastening element according to Figure 3 and also serves as an additional fastening point for the adjusting device 10. Specifically, the fastening element 36 has a guide device 37B which has a plurality of guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E. The guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E are essentially pin-shaped and extend beyond end surfaces of the fastening element 36. The guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E have an outer contour which essentially corresponds to the inner contour of the longitudinal grooves 37, so that the guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E can be guided in the longitudinal grooves 37 like a slide. The fastening element 36 can be inserted into the longitudinal grooves 37 or generally the receptacle 37A and can be moved along the receptacle 37A and the longitudinal grooves 37. The fastening element 36 can thus be displaced along the housing 24.

[0174] Figure 27A shows a further perspective view of a housing 24 of an actuating device 10 according to the invention according to an additional embodiment. The housing 24 is formed as an extruded aluminum profile and has the receptacle 37A in the form of longitudinal grooves 37. The fastening element 36 comprises the guide device 37B and a plurality of guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E. In addition, the fastening element 36 comprises a holding means 371 for cables. The holding means 371 provides an opening for inserting a cable clip. A cable clip usually has Christmas tree-like locking means that can be inserted into the opening, whereby a cable holder of the cable clip can carry one or more cables.

[0175] As can be clearly seen in Figures 28A and 28B, embodiments of the fastening element 36 comprise an arm-shaped sub-element 36C that extends over an upper side of the housing 24 (Figure 27). The arm-shaped sub-element 36C has a first guide element 37C of the guide device 37B at a free end. The arm-shaped sub-element 36C serves as a connecting element between the guide elements 37D and 37C for dissipating larger force loads. In the region of the transition between a trapezoidal sub-element 36D of the fastening element 36 and the arm-shaped sub-element 36C, a second guide element 37D is arranged on a side facing the housing 24. Likewise, a third guide element 37E is provided at an end of the trapezoidal sub-element 36D opposite the arm-shaped sub-element 36C. Overall, the fastening element 36 thus has three guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E, which together form the guide device 37B.

[0176] The guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E are essentially pin-shaped with a substantially cylindrical outer contour. Each guide element 37B comprises a first end 37F and a second end 37G. The first end 37F and the second end 37G preferably have a conical taper. Specifically, the first ends 37F and the second ends 37G are each frustoconical. The taper formed there allows the guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E to be easily inserted into the longitudinal grooves 37 during assembly.

[0177] In order to achieve lateral stabilization of the guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E in the longitudinal grooves 37, prestressing elements 37H in the form of ribs are preferably provided on the guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E, which extend at least partially along the respective guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E. The prestressing elements 37H run parallel to a longitudinal axis of the guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E. As can be seen in Figure 28B, a further prestressing element 37H in the form of a rib can be provided on a rear surface of the trapezoidal partial element 36D. The rib on the trapezoidal sub-element 36D preferably rests against a planar outer surface of the housing 24 and thus serves as a tolerance compensation or pre-tensioning element to the housing 24, so that rattling noises due to mechanical play during the driving operation of the vehicle can be excluded.To connect the fastening element 36 to a vehicle part and / or a vehicle body, a threaded portion 36A is formed in the trapezoidal sub-element 36D. The threaded portion 36A includes an internal thread that can interact with a screw, for example. To facilitate the insertion of the screw into the threaded portion 36A, a funnel-shaped feed 36B opens into the threaded portion 36A.

[0178] The two fastening elements 36 according to Figures 28A and 28B are essentially analogous to one another. However, the fastening elements 36 can differ from one another in details. For example, the arm-shaped partial element 36C of the fastening element 36 according to Figure 28A has a substantially outwardly curved, i.e., concave, curvature. In the exemplary embodiment of the fastening element 36 according to Figure 28B, however, the arm-shaped partial element 36C is curved inward in sections. The fastening element 36 according to Figure 28B is shown, for example, in the assembly with the housing 24 in Figure 27. Figure 30 also shows the fastening element 36 according to Figure 28B in a further perspective view.

[0179] Figure 29 shows the fastening element 36 according to Figure 28A in a cross-sectional view. Specifically, Figure 29 shows again that the guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E are arranged at different points of the

[0180] Fastening element 36 can be arranged. For the sake of specificity, a guide element arranged at the free longitudinal end of the arm-shaped sub-element 36C is referred to as the first guide element 37C. A guide element arranged in the transition section between the arm-shaped sub-element 36C and the trapezoidal sub-element 36D is referred to as the second guide element 37D. A guide element located at an end of the trapezoidal sub-element 36D opposite the arm-shaped sub-element 36C is referred to as the third guide element 37E. The arrangement of the first guide element 37C, the second guide element 37D, and the third guide element 37E shown in connection with the fastening element 36 according to Figure 29 also applies analogously to the exemplary embodiment of a fastening element 36 according to Figures 28B and 30.

[0181] Figure 31 shows the slide assembly 26, to which the adjusting element 28 is articulated. The articulated connection between the adjusting element 28 and the slide assembly 26 is preferably established via a ball pin 38. The adjusting element 28 is coupled, in particular, to an upper side of the slide assembly 26 via the ball pin 38. Specifically, the ball pin 38 engages in the area of ​​the guide sections 32A, 32B of the slide assembly 26.

[0182] The design of the ball stud 38 is clearly visible in the sectional view according to Figure 32. The ball stud 38 is preferably fixedly, in particular also rotationally fixedly, connected to the adjusting element 28. The ball stud 38 extends through a through-hole in the adjusting element 28 and is secured therein with a positive fit axially relative to the bore axis. The ball stud 38 can be secured against rotation with respect to the adjusting element 28 either by frictional engagement and / or by material bond, for example by welding. At a lower end, the ball stud 38 forms a partially spherical outer contour. This partially spherical outer contour engages in a corresponding ball socket 40 in the slide assembly 26. The ball stud 38 is preferably positively but movably mounted in the ball socket 40. This mounting enables the adjusting element 28 to be both pivotable and tiltable with respect to the slide assembly 26.This mobility is advantageous in order to compensate for tensions that could arise due to the movement of the adjusting element 28, thus ensuring a quiet movement of the adjusting device.

[0183] Figures 32A, 32B, and 32C show different variants of the attachment of the ball stud 38 to the adjusting element 28. The adjusting element 28 with the ball stud 38 is shown in a horizontal sectional view. The horizontal section runs essentially through a longitudinal center axis of the adjusting element 28 and centrally through the through-hole through which the ball stud 38 extends. In the embodiment according to Figure 32A, the through-hole in the adjusting element 28 has a circular inner circumferential surface through which the ball stud 38 extends. The ball stud 38 also has a circular outer circumferential surface in this area. The ball stud 38 can therefore be arranged on the adjusting element 28 in a rotationally sliding bearing manner, thus enabling rotation between the adjusting element 28 and the ball stud 38. Alternatively, it is possible to create a material-to-material connection that provides anti-twist protection.For example, the ball stud 38 can be welded to the actuating element 28.

[0184] In the embodiment according to Figure 32B, however, anti-rotation is ensured by a mechanically provided anti-rotation device 39A. The anti-rotation device 39A preferably comprises a toothed outer contour of a fastening section of the ball pin 38, which forms a press connection with the inner contour of the through-bore in the adjusting element 28. Alternatively, the adjusting element 28 can also have a knurled or toothed inner contour, so that the knurling or toothing of the ball pin 38 interacts with the knurling or toothing of the adjusting element 28 and thus forms the anti-rotation device 39A.

[0185] A further possibility for the rotation lock according to Figure 32A consists in providing a minimal clearance fit between the ball stud 38 and the adjusting element 28. In the original state, the ball stud 38 preferably has a cylindrical extension which extends from the partially spherical section of the ball stud 38 and is inserted through the opening of the adjusting element 28. The cylindrical section of the ball stud 38 is then unformed, thus forming a rivet which, on the one hand, leads to a positive fixing of the ball stud 38 along the bore axis and, on the other hand, causes the diameter of the ball stud 38 to increase due to the compression, so that the cylindrical section of the ball stud 38 is pressed radially against the bore of the adjusting element 28.

[0186] The embodiment according to Figure 32C shows a ball stud 38 that has a trilobular contour in the area of ​​the adjusting element 28. The cross-sectional geometry of the section of the ball stud 38 extending from the partially spherical portion essentially corresponds to a "triangular-round" shape. This contour can be easily pressed onto the adjusting element 28 and, thanks to the trilobular contour 39B, provides anti-twist protection.

[0187] As an alternative to the variants shown in Figures 32A, 32B and 32C, it is also possible for the ball pin 38 and the adjusting element 28 to be formed in one piece or monolithically.

[0188] Figure 33 shows the ball socket 40, which is formed in the carriage assembly 26, specifically in the region of the guide sections 32A, 32B of the carriage assembly 26. The ball socket 40 is formed integrally with the carriage assembly 26. At least one pocket 40A, which is designed to receive lubricant, can be provided in the ball socket 40. Specifically, the ball socket 40 preferably has a plurality of pockets 40A, which are essentially formed as grooves in the ball socket 40. Furthermore, the ball socket 40 can have at least two lateral bearing tongues 40B, against which the ball stud 38 can rest. Preferably, the bearing tongues 40 are each delimited by two pockets 40A. The bearing tongues 40B are arranged at least in a lower section 40C of the ball socket 40 (Figure 34).

[0189] Figure 34 clearly shows the arrangement of the ball stud 38 in the ball socket 40. It can be seen that the spherical portion of the ball stud 38 engages the ball socket 40. The pockets 40A, each arranged between the at least two lateral bearing tongues 40B, allow lubricant to be absorbed, so that the ball connection provided by the ball studs 38 and the ball socket 40 is well lubricated and permanently supported without wear.

[0190] In order to hold the ball stud 38 in the ball socket 40, at least one fastening element 39C is preferably provided, which secures the ball stud 38 inserted into the ball socket 40. The fastening element 39C is preferably made of metal, in particular steel. The fastening element 39C can be designed such that it at least partially penetrates the slide assembly 26 and the ball socket 40. Specifically, two parallel fastening pins or bolts can be provided as the fastening element 39C, which secure the ball stud 38 in the ball socket 40. The fastening pins can be inserted laterally into the first guide section 32A of the slide assembly 26 and come into contact with the ball stud 38 in a transition region between the spherical section of the ball stud 38 and the connecting section to the actuating element 28.As can be clearly seen in Figure 34, the fastening elements 39C prevent the ball pin 38 from leaving the ball socket 40.

[0191] Figures 34A to 34D show a further embodiment of an arrangement of the ball stud 38 in the ball socket 40. According to this alternative embodiment, the ball socket 40 can have a surface comprising a sliding plastic. For example, it is conceivable to provide a separate ball head receptacle 40D made of a sliding plastic. This ball head receptacle 40D can have flexible elements 40F for improved assembly and securing of the ball stud 38 in the ball head receptacle 40D and in the ball socket 40, and can absorb compressive and tensile forces acting on the ball stud 38. For secure fastening of the ball head receptacle 40D in the slide assembly 26, for example, locking means 40E can be provided, which can be locked into suitable undercuts 40G in the slide assembly 26. Alternatively or additionally, the fastening element 39C used in the previous embodiment—here two fastening pins—can be incorporated.

[0192] In the illustrated embodiment, the ball head receptacle 40D encloses the ball head of the ball stud 38, which is made of metal—preferably steel—with the flexible elements 40F. The flexible elements 40F are arm-shaped. As can be seen from Figure 34C, the fastening pins penetrate the slide assembly 26 in such a way that the ball head cannot escape from the ball head receptacle 40D. The fastening pins rest against corresponding recesses 39D in the flexible elements 40F, advantageously creating a type of sandwich structure (steel-plastic-steel) in which the plastic of the ball head receptacle 40D is only subjected to compressive stress. This connection enables a play-free or almost play-free arrangement of the ball stud 38 in the slide assembly 26 and, at the same time, exhibits very low wear.The mounting pins are positioned parallel to each other, with the distance between the inner edges of the mounting pins being smaller than the maximum ball diameter of the ball head. Thus, even if the plastic of the ball head mount 40D fails, the ball head can be securely held in the slide assembly 26 by creating a steel-to-steel connection.

[0193] Figure 34D shows the arrangement of two fastening pins aligned parallel to each other. The fastening pins are arranged in the recesses 39D on the ball head receptacle 40D. The recesses 39D are located on the upper side of the flexible elements 40F, with the ball head receptacle 40D enclosing the ball head of a ball stud 38.

[0194] Figure 35 shows a section through the drive element 16, which is provided here as one piece with the motor shaft 42, in its arrangement on or in the housing 24 or drive housing 84. It should be mentioned again that the drive housing 84 is to be seen as part of the housing 24 and can optionally be formed as one piece with it. The drive element 16 comprises a free end 16A, which extends from one end of a worm of the drive element 16, which meshes with the worm wheel 18. The drive element 16 is preferably axially preloaded via the axial end 16A in order to compensate for the high tolerances of the drive element 16 or the motor shaft. In concrete terms, the drive element 16 is therefore mounted so as to be axially preloaded relative to the drive housing 84.

[0195] For this purpose, a plastic element 46 is preferably arranged between the free end 16A of the drive element 16 and the drive housing 84. The plastic element 46 is shown in detail in Figure 36A. Specifically, the plastic element 46 can comprise an elastomer and thus function as an elastic damping element. The plastic element 46 is preferably received in a sleeve 46A which is arranged between the free end 16A of the drive element 16 and the drive housing 84. The arrangement of the sleeve 46A between the drive housing 84 and the drive element 16 or its free end 16A is clearly visible in Figure 35. Furthermore, the axial play of the drive element 16 or the motor shaft is symbolically represented in Figure 36B by a double arrow. This axial play can vary greatly within a series due to manufacturing tolerances, so tolerance compensation is advantageous.The axial play is represented by the double arrow, which runs parallel to the axial direction A of the drive element 16. The sectional view according to Figure 36C shows the sleeve 46a, which includes a recess 46B on a side facing away from the drive element 16. The recess 46B is preferably annular, with the plastic element 46 being received in the recess. The depth of the recess 46B is dimensioned such that it is smaller than a diameter of the plastic element 46. In this way, the plastic element 46 protrudes in the axial direction A beyond an edge of the sleeve 46A. The depth of the recess 46B can be adjusted via ribs 46D that protrude from the bottom of the recess 46B. The upper side of the ribs 46D form a support 46C, which, together with the edge of the sleeve 46A, defines a depth of the recess 46B. This recess is preferably less than the diameter of the plastic element 46.The ribs 46D thus form the support 46C for the plastic element 46 in the recess 46B. The ribs 46D are arranged radially, as can be seen in Figure 36D. The ribs 46D extend from a central extension 46E, which is provided for the centered clamping of the plastic element 46. The central extension 46E is essentially frustoconical in shape (Figure 36C). Starting from the bottom 46C of the recess 46B, the central extension 46E tapers towards the edge of the sleeve 46A. At the front end of the central extension 46E is an axial stop 47A, which defines the end stop of the axial play of the drive element A with respect to the drive housing 844.

[0196] With respect to the drive housing 84, the sleeve 46A is preferably arranged in a rotationally secure manner. For this purpose, an anti-rotation device 46G can be provided on a circumferential surface 46F of the sleeve 46A. The anti-rotation device 46G can be designed to correspond to a corresponding stop in the drive housing 84. Specifically, the anti-rotation device 46G can be shaped as a web or rib that positively engages a corresponding groove in the drive housing 84. The axial preload between the drive housing 84 and the drive element 16 can also be achieved in an alternative manner. Generally, a bearing space 16C is provided between the drive element 16, in particular its free end 16A, and the drive housing 84.If the arrangement of the sleeve 46A and the plastic element 46 is used as a preloading device which achieves the axial preload of the drive element 16 with respect to the drive housing 84, the arrangement of the sleeve 46A and the plastic element 46 is arranged in this bearing space 16C, which can be seen in particular from Figure 37C of the embodiment described below.

[0197] In an alternative variant (Figures 37A to 38), however, it is provided that the bearing space 16C is filled with a curable plastic. The axial preload is thus achieved by introducing a plastic in a liquid state into the bearing space 16C after the drive element 16 has been inserted into the drive housing 84 and hardening there. This compensates for tolerances between the drive element 16 and the drive housing 84. For this purpose, it is preferably provided that a bushing 16D is arranged at the free end 16A of the drive element 16. Such a bushing 16D is shown in Figure 38. The bushing 16D has an axial bearing 16G, which is directly connected to the drive element 16. On a section opposite the axial bearing 16G, the bushing 16D is equipped with tooth-like extensions 16E. Specifically, the tooth-like extensions 16E are arranged pointing away from the drive element 16 in the direction of the storage space 16C.In other words, the tooth-like extensions 16E protrude into the bearing space 16C. A sealing element 16F, such as an O-ring or a molded-on seal, is arranged between the tooth-like extensions 16E and the axial bearing 16G, extending circumferentially around the bushing 16D. The tooth-like extensions 16E and the axial bearing 16G preferably have a plurality of ribs on their outer circumference, which secure the sealing element 16F in the axial direction.

[0198] The axial preload is achieved by means of the bushing 16D by filling the bearing chamber 16C with plastic after inserting the bushing 16D with the drive element 16 into the drive housing 84. The liquefied plastic fills the bearing chamber 16C as well as the spaces between the tooth-like extensions 16E. Air can escape through the spaces between the tooth-like extensions 16E when filling with liquid plastic, thereby preventing the unwanted formation of air pockets and ensuring an even distribution of the liquid plastic in the upper part of the bushing 16D. The sealing element 16F in the form of the O-ring prevents the liquid plastic from flowing out of the upper part of the bushing 16D and escaping from the bearing chamber 16C. As soon as the plastic in the bearing chamber 16C hardens, an axial preload of the drive element 16 is created.At the same time, a positive connection is achieved between the cured plastic and the tooth-like extensions 16E, thus ensuring that the drive housing 84 and the bushing 16D are prevented from rotating. Since the drive element 16 is subject to high tolerances, it is not possible to reliably determine the amount of plastic that needs to be introduced into the storage space 16C across a series. In this respect, this variant preferably provides for the drive housing 84 to be adapted accordingly in order to be able to introduce the curable plastic into the storage space 16C. A corresponding drive housing 84 is shown in Figures 37A and 37B. For this purpose, the drive housing 84 comprises a reservoir 84B. The reservoir 84B is preferably arranged on an outer side of the drive housing 84. Specifically, the reservoir 84B can be designed essentially as a basin-like pocket on an outer side of the drive housing 84.In the bottom of the reservoir 84B there is preferably an opening 84A which communicates with the storage space 16C. The curable plastic can thus be introduced into the storage space 16C via the reservoir 84B and the opening 84A. When the curable plastic is introduced into the storage space 16C, any air in the storage space 16C is simultaneously displaced. To allow the air to escape, the reservoir 84B has an outlet opening 84C in its bottom. The air escapes from the storage space 16C via the outlet opening 84C, so that it can be fully filled with the curable plastic. The reservoir 84B serves as a reservoir or excess storage for curable plastic that remains as a residue when the storage space 16C is filled.In this way, a uniform amount of curable plastic can be introduced to fill the storage space 16C, whereby the amount of curable plastic that can actually be introduced into the storage space varies due to the component tolerances of the drive element 16. The excess portion of the curable plastic is then stored in the reservoir 84B and cures there.

[0199] Figures 39A to 41 show the mounting of the spindle nut 22 in the carriage assembly 26 according to a preferred embodiment. Generally, the spindle nut 22 is tiltably mounted in the carriage assembly 26. Specifically, the spindle nut 22 is tiltably mounted about a tilt axis K, which is oriented orthogonally to a rotation axis R of the spindle 20. The rotation axis R is shown in Figures 39A and 39B. The tilt axis K is shown in Figures 39B, 40, and 41.

[0200] As shown in the side view according to Figure 41, the spindle nut 22 has a first outer circumference 43 and a second outer circumference 45 in its cross-section. The first outer circumference 43 and the second outer circumference 45 each have a common center point M lying on the tilt axis K. The first outer circumference 43 is larger than the second outer circumference 45. Corresponding to the two outer circumferences 43, 45, the slide arrangement 26 has a corresponding inner contour 44. Specifically, the slide arrangement 26 has an inner contour 44 corresponding to the first outer circumference 43 and to the second outer circumference 45, which inner contour 44 makes it possible to guide the first outer circumference 43 and the second outer circumference 45 during a tilting movement of the spindle nut 22 about the tilt axis K.

[0201] In particular, it is provided that the inner contour 44 has a first partial surface 44A, which corresponds to the first outer circumference 43. Furthermore, a second partial surface 44B is provided on the inner contour 44, which corresponds to the second outer circumference 45. A transition surface 44C is provided between the first partial surface 44A and the second partial surface 44B. The transition surface 44C connects the first partial surface 44A to the second partial surface 44B.

[0202] The transition surface 44C is designed to limit the tilting movement about the tilting axis K. Due to the different outer circumferences of the spindle nut 22, the transition surface 44C consequently acts as a stop for the tilting movement of the spindle nut 22. At maximum tilt of the spindle nut 22, it rests against the transition surface 44C. This state is shown in Figure 40. It can be seen that the spindle nut 22 is completely tilted and thus abuts against the transition surface 44C. In this state, the spindle nut 22 can be inserted into the corresponding nut receptacle in the housing 24. As soon as the spindle nut 22 is deflected from the maximum tilt, i.e., is aligned in particular with the spindle 20, as shown in Figure 41, the contour, in particular the transition surface 44C, secures the spindle nut 22 against displacement in the housing 24 of the slide assembly 26.In other words, the inner contour 44 of the slide contour acts as a bayonet lock 22A for the spindle nut 22. The bayonet lock 22A has a first stop 22B formed on a first side 26A of the slide assembly 26. A second stop 22C, which is also part of the bayonet lock 22A, is formed on a second side 26B of the slide assembly. The first stop 22B and the second stop 22C, which together form the bayonet lock 22A, are clearly visible in Figure 39A. In particular, it is provided that the first stop 22B and the second stop 22C are arranged obliquely opposite one another with respect to the slide assembly 26. In this way, the spindle nut 22 can be inserted laterally into the slide assembly 26 in its maximum tilted position (Figure 39B, Figure 40).Once the spindle nut 22 is arranged in the carriage assembly 26 and deflected from the maximum tilting position, the first stop 22B and the second stop 22C prevent the spindle nut 22 from moving laterally out of the carriage assembly 26.

[0203] Preferably, the first stop 22B and the second stop 22C are manufactured integrally or monolithically with the slide assembly 26. In particular, the slide assembly 26 with the stops 22B and 22C can be manufactured by an injection molding process or form an injection-molded part.

[0204] Figure 42 shows an end of the adjusting element 28 opposite the slide assembly 26. The adjusting element 28 has, at the end opposite the slide assembly 26, a joint eye 52 which is designed to be fastened to a vehicle part or a vehicle body. For this purpose, the joint eye 52 has a joint eye insert 60 which engages around the inside of the joint eye 52 of the adjusting element 28 and forms a receptacle 60A for a joint pin 54, which is shown in more detail in Figure 49. The joint eye insert 60 can basically be formed in one piece or monolithically. However, it is advantageous if the joint eye insert 60 comprises a first joint eye insert element 61 and a second joint eye insert element 62. The first joint eye insert element 61 and the second joint eye insert element 62 can be connected to one another in a materially bonded or form-fitting manner.The two-part design of the joint eye insert 60 has the advantage that the first joint eye insert element 61 can be inserted into the joint eye 52 from a first side, whereas the second joint eye insert element 62 can be inserted into the joint eye 52 from the second side. The joint eye insert elements 61, 62 can be connected to one another within the joint eye 52 to jointly form the joint eye insert 60. Preferably, the joint eye insert 60, in particular the first joint eye insert element 61 and the second joint eye insert element 62, is made of a plastic. The plastic can in particular have elastic properties. It is particularly preferred if the centering contour 59B comprises a plastically deformable material, for example a plastic. The centering contour 59B serves in particular to compensate for angular errors between the actuating element 28 and a vehicle part or the vehicle body.Such angular errors can occur between the vehicle part and the vehicle body due to the sum of all tolerance chains and should be able to be compensated by free movement in the corresponding tilt and inclination directions. At the same time, the ball joint insert should support the tightening torque of the screw on the retaining plate 56 without the need for an assembly template. However, omitting an assembly template has the advantage that assembly can be carried out particularly quickly and easily. In this respect, the centering contour 59B offers considerable simplification when installing the actuating device in a vehicle, as it initially supports the tightening torque and can then be closed off in a targeted manner as the application progresses, thus enabling free movement in the corresponding tilt and inclination directions.

[0205] The centering contour 59B can have a plurality of projections 59A aligned with the pivot pin 54. In the event of an angular error during assembly, the pin can be aligned within the pivot eye insert 60, since individual projections 59A of the centering contour 59B deflect accordingly. The pivot eye insert 60, together with the centering contour 59B, thus ensures that a tilted arrangement between the pivot pin 54 and the adjusting element 28 is tolerated and does not impair the pivoting movement of the adjusting element 28 relative to the pivot pin 54.

[0206] Referring to Figure 43, the joint eye insert 60 can be provided with a clamping unit 60E to clamp the joint pin 54 that can be inserted into the pin receptacle 60A. The clamping unit 60E can have elastic clamping elements 60F arranged on an edge of the joint eye insert 60. As can be seen in Figure 43, the clamping unit 60E can be inserted in an upper region of the first joint eye insert element 61. Essentially, the joint eye insert 60 has the pin receptacle 60A, which has an insertion opening through which the spherical portion 54C of the joint pin 54 can be inserted. The clamping unit 60E is provided to prevent the joint pin 54 from leaving the pin receptacle 60D via the same path.This is inserted into the first joint eye insert element 61 above the bearing 60G shown in Figure 44 and thus blocks an axial movement of the joint pin 54 out of the pin receptacle 60A.

[0207] Figure 44 shows a sectional view of how the hinge pin 54 is coupled to the joint eye insert 60 via the bearing 60G. Furthermore, Figure 44 shows that the hinge pin 54 not only passes through the joint eye 52, but also extends through a retaining plate 56, so that the hinge pin 54 creates a connection between the retaining plate 56 and the actuating element 28. This is also shown again in a perspective view in Figure 45. Furthermore, Figures 42 to 48 show that the joint eye insert 60 each has snap-in connection elements 60H, which can, for example, fix a sealing element 82 that serves to seal an opening in a vehicle sheet metal. Figure 57B shows an example of such a sealing element 82, which is held on the actuating element 28 by means of the snap-in connection elements 60H.

[0208] Figures 47 and 48 show the two joint eye insert elements 61, 62 in detail. An axial direction AR is shown with respect to the first joint eye insert element 61 (Figure 47). It can be seen that the projections 59A are formed as ribs extending parallel to the axial direction AR. The joint eye insert 60 has a continuous bolt receptacle 60A that can accommodate the joint pin 54. A bayonet connection is preferably provided to connect the joint pin 54 to the joint eye insert 60. The joint pin 54 inserted in the bolt receptacle 60A can be positioned by means of the bayonet connection. It can also be seen in Figures 47 and 48 that the joint eye insert 60, in particular each of the joint eye insert elements 61, 62, each have a first locking lug 60B and a second locking lug 60C, which are arranged on an edge of the joint eye insert 60 orof the respective joint eye insert element 61, 62 are arranged opposite one another. The locking lugs 60B, 60C serve as a bayonet connection to secure a spherical portion 54C of the joint pin 54. The joint pin 54 with the spherical portion 54C is shown in Figure 49.

[0209] The first locking lug 60B and the second locking lug 60C can be formed adjacent to a bearing 60D, wherein the bearing 60D is arranged inside the bolt receptacle 60A and receives the at least partially spherical portion 54C of the hinge pin 54. The bearing 60D is preferably formed to correspond to the spherical portion 54C of the hinge pin 54. Accordingly, the hinge pin 54 preferably has two bulges 54A arranged facing away from one another, which are formed to correspond to the first locking lug 60B and the second locking lug 60C. In this way, a bayonet connection is created between the hinge pin 54, in particular the bulges 54A, and the locking lugs 60B, 60C. A design with only one locking lug 60B is also conceivable and cannot be excluded within the scope of the invention.

[0210] The bolt receptacle 60A in the ball joint insert 60 can have at least one groove 60D that serves as a lubricant reservoir. The groove 60D is illustrated by way of example in Figure 46. Figure 47 shows that the groove 60D is preferably arranged in the first ball joint insert element 61.

[0211] Figure 49 shows the retaining bolt 54 with the spherical section 54C, wherein one of the two bulges 54A in the spherical section 54C can be seen. At an upper end, the retaining bolt 54 has a retaining plate counter-contour 54B. The shape of the retaining plate counter-contour 54B corresponds to the inner contour of a retaining plate contour 56A in the retaining plate 56. The retaining plate 56 is shown in Figure 50. In particular, it can be seen that the retaining plate 56 has two through-openings, wherein one of the through-openings is formed with the retaining plate contour 56A. The retaining plate contour 56A is essentially formed as an oval inner contour, into which the correspondingly oval outer contour of the retaining plate counter-contour 54B engages in a form-fitting manner. The retaining bolt 54 is thus secured against rotation and can be connected to the retaining plate 56 with a defined basic orientation.

[0212] In Figure 51, the connection between the adjusting element 28 and the retaining plate 56 can be seen. The adjusting element 28 has at its end opposite the slide assembly 26 the joint eye 52, in which the joint eye insert

[0213] 60 is arranged. The retaining bolt 54 penetrates the retaining plate 56, passes through the bolt receptacle 60A of the joint eye insert 60 and then engages in the second through-opening of the retaining plate 56. In addition, the open position of the bayonet catch is visible in the arrangement shown in Fig. 51. This is illustrated by the sectional view in Fig. 52. In this position, the joint bolt 54 can move axially in the joint eye insert 60. This is the assembly position. By subsequently rotating the retaining plate 56 including the joint bolt 54, the bayonet catch is locked and thus the axial movement of the joint bolt 54 relative to the joint eye insert 60 is blocked.

[0214] With regard to the joint eye insert 60, it applies to all embodiments that the first joint eye insert element 61 and the second joint eye insert element 62 can be connected to one another in a form-fitting or material-locking manner. In the case of a form-fitting connection, it is particularly preferred if the first joint eye insert element 61 and the second joint eye insert element 62 can be screw-connected to one another. For this purpose, the first joint eye insert element

[0215] 61 may, for example, have an external thread which interacts with a corresponding internal thread of the second joint eye insert element 62.

[0216] Figures 53 and 54 show a further embodiment relating to the closure of the housing 24 of the carriage assembly 26 by the cover 64. The housing 24 is preferably designed as an extruded profile and therefore has open axial ends. To prevent the penetration of moisture and dust into the housing 24, a cover 64 is provided. Specifically, the housing 24 has a housing opening 24C (Figure 27) which can be closed by the cover 64. The cover 64 preferably has projections 64A which can be connected to the receptacle 37A of the housing 24. The basic contour of the projections 64A therefore preferably corresponds to the guide elements 37C, 37D, 37E of the guide device 37B, so that the projections 64A can be inserted into the longitudinal grooves 37 of the receptacle 37A. Preferably, a plurality of such projections 64A are formed on the cover 64.In particular, the number of projections 64A preferably corresponds to the number of longitudinal grooves 37 on the housing 24. In the specific exemplary embodiment according to Figures 53 and 54, seven projections 64A are provided, each of which interacts with seven longitudinal grooves 37. To facilitate the insertion of the projections 64A into the longitudinal grooves 37, these preferably have a conical or frustoconical taper at their free ends. Furthermore, it can be provided that the cover-side projections 64A comprise prestressing elements 64H in the form of ribs that are formed in the longitudinal direction of the projection 64A. The prestressing elements 64H, which are similar to the prestressing elements 37H, are preferably formed monolithically with the projections 64A. The projections 64A can also be formed monolithically with the cover 64.To fix the cover 64 to the housing 24, the longitudinal grooves 37 can be crimped in the areas where the projections 64A are inserted into the longitudinal grooves 37. Crimping, i.e., reshaping the longitudinal grooves 37, creates a positive connection to the projections 64A, so that the cover 64 is thus firmly attached to the housing 24.

[0217] In Figure 53, it can also be seen that the cover 64 has a drainage opening 64C. Since the penetration of moisture into the housing 24, in particular condensation, cannot be completely prevented, the drainage opening 64C is provided. This allows moisture to flow out of the housing 24. As already explained in connection with Figure 24, the slide assembly 26 preferably has a piston geometry 72 whose outer contour corresponds to the inner contour of the drainage opening 64C, so that the piston geometry 72 closes the drainage opening 64 in an end position of the slide assembly 26. For this purpose, it is advantageously provided that the piston geometry 72 has a radial seal 73.

[0218] The preload elements 64H on the projections 64A serve, on the one hand, to compensate for tolerances and thus to ensure a secure, rattle-free fastening of the cover 64. At the same time, the preload elements 64H provide a preload that also reduces any rattling noises.

[0219] The cover 64 further includes a collar 64B that surrounds a longitudinal end of the housing 24 on its periphery, thus further impeding the penetration of moisture into the housing 24. In this respect, the collar 64B is water-repellent.

[0220] Figures 55 to 57B show an embodiment of an actuating device 10 in which a sealing element 82 is arranged on the actuating element 28. The sealing element 82 can be fastened to the actuating element 28, in particular by means of the snap-in connection elements 60H shown in Figure 48. The sealing element 82 serves, in particular, to seal a first cavity, preferably a vehicle cavity, which accommodates the joint eye 52. Specifically, the sealing element 82 serves to seal an opening of the first cavity. The sealing element 82 can be locked to the joint eye insert 60 by the snap-in connection elements 60H. The sealing element 82 completely surrounds the actuating element 28, thus ensuring a good seal between the actuating element 28 and an opening of the first cavity.Additionally or alternatively, the sealing element 82 can be provided for sealing a second cavity of a body or a vehicle part movable relative to a body of a vehicle, in which the adjusting device 10 is arranged.

[0221] As can be seen in Figure 55, the sealing element 82 has a first sealing lip 82A, which bears directly against the actuating element 28. Furthermore, a second sealing lip 82B is provided, which is arranged along a circumferential direction of the sealing element 82. The second sealing lip 82B seals against the opening of the vehicle cavity. In general, the sealing element 82 comprises a base body 82D, which extends into a base plane G. Furthermore, a central body 82E is provided, which encompasses the actuating element 28 and comprises the first sealing lip 82A. The central body 82E is oriented along a longitudinal direction L of the actuating element 28. The longitudinal direction L of the actuating element 28 can be seen in Figure 57B.

[0222] In Figure 57A, it is clearly visible that the base plane G of the base body 82D and the longitudinal direction L of the actuating element 28 are arranged at an angle to one another that is different from 90°. This is accompanied by an oblique orientation of the central body 82E with respect to a plane that encompasses the second sealing lip 82B. This tilting or oblique arrangement is particularly advantageous for sealing cavities in vehicles that accommodate the joint eye 52. The actuating device is preferably used to actuate vehicle doors or vehicle tailgates that are aligned at an angle to a vehicle body when opened. This angular orientation can be compensated for by the oblique arrangement of the second sealing lip 82B with respect to the central body 82E, so that the sealing element 82 ensures a permanently good seal.

[0223] Figure 57A also shows that the sealing element 82 has a locking arrangement 82C, which cooperates with the snap-in connection elements 60H of the joint eye insert 60 to establish a positive connection between the sealing element 82 and the joint eye insert 60. Furthermore, the central body 82E can be arranged off-center on the base body 82D.

[0224] Figures 58 and 59 also show the sealing arrangement 34 already shown in Figure 22, which completely surrounds the actuating element 28 and protects an interior of the housing 24 from environmental influences. The sealing arrangement 34 has a fastening section 67 with which the sealing arrangement 34 can be fastened to the housing 24. Furthermore, a bellows section 69 is provided, which ensures mobility of the sealing arrangement 34. In particular, tilting movements of the actuating element 28 relative to the housing 24 can thus be compensated. Furthermore, a stripping section 68 is provided, which slides along the actuating element 28, but at the same time forms a sliding seal.

[0225] In order to ensure that the adjusting device 10 can be clearly identified, for example, by a workshop employee even when installed, without having to remove it from the vehicle or the side door, suitable markings are provided on the adjusting device 10. However, since these markings should not be visible to an end customer of the vehicle, as an alternative to the adjusting element 28 or in addition thereto, the sealing element 82 can advantageously be labeled on a side wall which, when installed, faces away from the passenger compartment of the vehicle. When installed, this side wall of the sealing element 82 faces, for example, the side door and is not visible to an end customer / driver of the vehicle. When the adjusting device 10 is tilted by 180° on the other side of the vehicle, the marking is also located on the side wall of the sealing element 28 facing away from the passenger compartment.

[0226] As a further advantageous marking method, it is conceivable to mark the sealing element 28 using a suitable lacquer, which can only be made visible using a suitable light source. For example, a UV lacquer can be used, which only becomes visible with the aid of a UV lamp.

[0227] Figures 60 and 61 show an embodiment of the adjusting device 10, in which the slide assembly 26 has two guide sections 32. A first, left-side guide section 32A, 32B is opposite a second, right-side guide section 32B. The guide sections 32A, 32B serve to guide the slide assembly 26 in the housing 24. A play-free guide rail 74A, 74B is each assigned to the two guide sections 32A, 32B. The guide rails 74A, 74B each have a prismatic shape and thus form prismatic sliding or guide surfaces 75, which interact with sliding or guide surfaces 77 (see Figure 26) of the housing 24. In particular, the guide rails 74A, 74B preferably comprise a trapezoidal outer contour on the sides facing the housing inner surfaces.In addition to the two opposing guide sections 32A, 32B and their respective associated guide rails 74A, 74B, a third guide section 32C can be provided, which guides the carriage assembly 26 in the housing. Thus, the three guide sections 32A, 32B, 32C can essentially form a three-point sliding bearing in the housing 24. The third guide section 32C preferably also has a guide rail 74C. The guide rails 74A, 74B, 74C are each arranged without play on the associated guide sections 32A, 32B, 32C. It is also possible for one of the guide rails 74, 74A, 74B to be formed integrally with the respective guide section 32A, 32B, 32C.

[0228] In the embodiment according to Figures 60 and 61, at least one of the guide rails 74A, 74B, 74C, in particular the guide rail 74B of the second guide section 32B, has a means for self-adjusting play reduction. Preferably, the opposite guide rail 74B can also have such means for self-adjusting play reduction. The means for self-adjusting play reduction preferably each comprise an elastic spring element 80 shown in Figure 26. The elastic spring element 80 can act on a compensating element 76, which is designed to be relatively movable between the at least one guide rail 74 and the prismatic guide surface 77 in the form of a corresponding sliding surface of the housing 24. The compensating element 76 can specifically comprise a first compensating element 76A and a second compensating element 76B, which are designed independently of one another.The compensating elements 76A, 76B are preferably arranged along a guide rail 74A, 74B, 74C, spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction. The compensating elements 76, 76A, 76B are preferably preloaded by the spring element 80 and press against the inner guide surfaces 77 of the housing 24, thus achieving tolerance compensation. The slide assembly 26 is thus well guided in the housing 24, which prevents noise emissions due to play. In addition to the absence of play, the prismatic design can provide increased stability of the slide assembly 26 in the housing 24, allowing a smooth linear movement to be performed independently of external forces. This is based on the physical wedge principle of holding large displacement forces with a small holding force of the spring elements 80.

[0229] Furthermore, the compensating elements 76, preloaded by the spring elements 80 against the housing 24, serve as a defined linear brake on the movement axis of the actuating element 28 through a defined friction / braking force that is tailored to the actuating device 10. The friction introduced there dampens the entire system of the actuating device 10 and can be better controlled by an external controller, thereby avoiding disruptive noise. Due to the simple and modular design of the system, the spring elements 80 can be easily replaced and adapted to the specific needs of the actuating device 10.Just like the embodiment according to Figures 25 and 26, this embodiment enables a virtually play-free linear guide of the slide assembly 26 as well as a defined, constant frictional torque between the slide assembly 26 and the housing 24, so that a required holding force, for example, of a vehicle door, can be fully or partially represented. Therefore, the friction introduced into the slide assembly 26 can replace a separate brake, for example, a magnetic brake, in the area of ​​the drive unit 14. A further advantage of applying friction at this point of action of the actuating device 10 is a uniform base load, which leads to quieter operation of the entire system.

[0230] Each compensating element 76, 76A, 76B can also have an assembly phase 76C to enable the slide assembly 26 to be inserted into the housing 24. The assembly phase 76C causes the compensating element 76, 76A, 76B to be displaced inward against the spring force of the spring element 80 when the slide assembly 26 is inserted into the housing 24 and then, due to the spring element 80, to bear against the guide surface 77 inside the housing 24. On a side facing away from the guide surface 77, each compensating element 76 can additionally have a locking pin 81 that secures the ball stud 38 inserted into the ball socket 40. Essentially, the locking pin 81 can therefore form the fastening element 39C that holds the partially spherical portion of the ball stud 38 in the ball socket 40 (Figure 34).In this way, the compensating elements 76 offer a dual function, namely, on the one hand, the tolerance compensation for the slide arrangement in the housing 24 and, on the other hand, the fastening of the ball stud 38 in the ball socket 40.

Claims

Patent claims 1. An adjusting device (10) for a vehicle part that is movable relative to a body of a vehicle, in particular a vehicle door or a vehicle flap, comprising: a housing (24) with a slide arrangement (26), wherein the slide arrangement (26) can be transferred between a first position and a second position, an adjusting element (28) which is connected at one end to the slide arrangement (26) and has, at a free end opposite the slide arrangement (26), a joint eye (52) which is designed to be arranged on the body of a vehicle or on a vehicle part that is movable relative to the body, wherein the joint eye (52) has a joint eye insert (60) which engages around the inside of the joint eye (52) of the adjusting element (28) and comprises a bolt receptacle (60A) for a joint pin (54).

2. Adjusting device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the joint eye insert (60) comprises a first joint eye insert element (61) and a second joint eye insert element (62), which are connected to one another in a materially or positively locking manner.

3. Adjusting device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the joint eye insert (60) has a centering contour (59B) for aligning a joint pin (54) when inserted into the pin receptacle (60A), wherein the centering contour (59B) is designed to be plastically deformable.

4. Adjusting device (10) according to claim 3, wherein the centering contour (59B) has a plurality of projections (59A) which are formed in an interior of the bolt receptacle (60A).

5. Adjusting device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of projections (59A) are knob-shaped or rib-shaped.

6. Adjusting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the joint eye insert (60) has a bearing (60G) inside the bolt receptacle (60A) for supporting an at least partially spherical portion (54C) of a joint bolt (54).

7. Actuating device (10) according to claim 6, wherein the bearing (60G) in the interior of the bolt receptacle (60A) comprises at least one groove (60D) for forming a lubricant bearing.

8. Adjusting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the centering contour (59B) and the bolt receptacle (60A) are arranged on the first joint eye insert element (61).

9. Adjusting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the joint eye insert (60) comprises a bayonet connection for positioning a joint pin (54) which can be inserted into the pin receptacle (60A).

10. Adjusting device (10) according to claim 9, wherein the bayonet connection has at least one first locking lug (60B) which is arranged on an edge of the joint eye insert (60).

11. Adjusting device (10) according to one of claims 9 or 10, wherein the adjusting device (10) has a hinge pin (54) which is inserted into the pin receptacle (60A) and secured by means of the bayonet connection.

12. Adjusting device (10) according to claim 11, wherein the hinge pin (54) has an at least partially spherical portion, wherein the at least partially spherical portion comprises a bulge (54A) which is formed to correspond to the first locking nose (60B).

13. Adjusting device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first joint eye insert element (61) and the second joint eye insert element (62) can be screwed together by means of a thread (63).

14. Adjusting device (10) according to one of claims 3 to 7 or 13, wherein the centering contour (59B) is arranged on the second joint eye insert element (62) and is designed in the form of a hexagon socket.

15. Adjusting device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7 or 13 to 14, wherein the joint eye insert (60) has a clamping unit (60E) for clamping a joint pin (54) that can be inserted into the pin receptacle (60A).

16. Adjusting device (10) according to claim 15, wherein the clamping unit (60E) has elastic clamping elements (60F) which are arranged on an edge of the joint eye insert (60).

17. Adjusting device (10) according to claim 16, wherein the clamping elements (60F) are banana-shaped and arranged opposite one another.

18. Adjusting device (10) according to one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the adjusting device (10) has a hinge pin (54) which is inserted into the pin receptacle (60A) and clamped by means of the clamping unit (60E).

19. Adjusting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjusting device (10) comprises a holding plate (56) for arranging on a vehicle part, and wherein the hinge pin (54) can be inserted into an opening of the holding plate (56) and is designed to be non-rotatable relative to the holding plate (56).

20. Vehicle (200) with an adjusting device (10) for a vehicle part movable relative to the body of the vehicle, in particular a vehicle door or a vehicle flap, according to one of the preceding claims.

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