Locking part for a locking mechanism of a motor vehicle lock

Abstract

The invention relates to a locking element for a locking mechanism (4) of a motor vehicle lock (2), in particular a latch (6), with a first locking contour (7) for locking the motor vehicle lock (2) in a first locked state, in particular the main locked state. It is proposed that the locking element (5) has a second locking contour (8) for locking the motor vehicle lock (2) in a further locked state, in particular a pre-locking state, which is deactivated, such that the deactivation prevents the second locking contour (8) from being accessible for locking by another locking element (5).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a locking element for a locking mechanism of a motor vehicle lock according to the preamble of claim 1, a motor vehicle lock according to the preamble of claim 9, a modular system for a motor vehicle lock according to claim 17, a motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 18, and a method for manufacturing motor vehicle locks according to the preamble of claim 21.

[0002] Various motor vehicle locks with locking components are known from the prior art. The motor vehicle lock in question is applicable to all types of locking elements of a motor vehicle. The locking element can, in principle, be pivotable and / or longitudinally displaceable on the motor vehicle. Furthermore, it can, in particular, be pivotable primarily about a horizontal or primarily about a vertical pivot axis.

[0003] Such locking elements include, for example, side doors, especially sliding doors, tailgates, trunk lids, bonnets, cargo floor or the like of a motor vehicle.

[0004] For example, EP 3 688 257 A1 describes a motor vehicle lock which has a latch and a pawl system with a primary pawl and a secondary pawl as locking components. The latch can be moved into a main locking position and, if applicable, a pre-locking position. Corresponding to these two locking positions, a pre-latch and a main latch are provided on the latch of the motor vehicle lock.

[0005] Although the teaching of EP 3 688 257 A1 implies that the pre-locking position may not be realized, it is not described in EP 3 688 257 A1 whether and how the locking components – latch, primary locking pawl and secondary locking pawl – should then be physically designed and arranged relative to each other.

[0006] Starting from a motor vehicle lock - such as the motor vehicle lock described in EP 3 688 257 A1 - it has now become apparent that there is a need for a cost-effective and simply constructed motor vehicle lock.

[0007] The invention is based on the problem of creating the possibility of providing a cost-effective and simply constructed motor vehicle lock.

[0008] The above problem is solved in a locking component by the features of the characterizing part of claim 1.

[0009] The fundamental consideration is to use a locking component for a motor vehicle lock, particularly an already developed motor vehicle lock with a pre-locking position and a main locking position, with a first and a second locking contour, also for a motor vehicle lock where one locking position, or one fewer locking position, is sufficient. The basic idea here is to simply deactivate the second locking contour of the locking component. This can be achieved by making the second locking contour inaccessible to another locking component.

[0010] The idea is to further develop and physically design the vehicle lock and the locking mechanism in such a way that a simpler locking mechanism for another vehicle lock can be easily derived from a vehicle lock with a multi-position locking mechanism, in particular a two-latch locking mechanism, by deactivating one of the locking positions or latches.

[0011] This can, for example, save on development and production costs for an additional lock or vehicle lock. In particular, if a multi-position lock is already designed in such a way that one fewer locking position can be implemented, development costs for the additional lock or vehicle lock can be reduced, and economies of scale in the production of both vehicle locks can be achieved through the use of identical parts.

[0012] In particular, by simply exchanging a locking component, which is installed on one side with the second locking contour activated and on the other side with the second locking contour deactivated, especially in the same motor vehicle lock production line, two different motor vehicle locks for different requirements can be produced in a simple and particularly cost-effective manner.

[0013] Specifically, for a locking element for locking a motor vehicle lock, in particular for a lock latch, it is proposed to provide a first locking contour for locking the motor vehicle lock in a first locking state, in particular the main locking state, and furthermore to provide a second locking contour for locking the motor vehicle lock in a further locking state, in particular the pre-locking state, which is deactivated, wherein the deactivation means that the second locking contour is not accessible to another locking element for locking the motor vehicle lock.

[0014] A preferred embodiment of the locking element is described in claim 2, which describes a particularly preferred design of the locking element. A particularly simple and cost-effective method of adapting the locking element is described.

[0015] The further development according to claim 3 enables a particularly robust design of the locking mechanism and the absorption of high forces, especially in the event of a crash.

[0016] Claims 4 to 7 describe particularly preferred embodiments of the locking element which allow a particularly simple and advantageous construction of the pawl system for a locking mechanism with such a locking element.

[0017] According to a further preferred embodiment according to claim 8, the locking part can have an attack contour for a closing aid.

[0018] According to a further teaching as per claim 9, which has independent significance, a motor vehicle lock is claimed.

[0019] It is essential that the lock latch is designed as a locking component in accordance with the described type and / or that the vehicle lock does not assume any further locking state when the lock latch is adjusted from the open position to the closed position and that the locking pawl system is designed to realize an additional locking position for a further locking state of the vehicle lock, in particular a pre-locking state, by providing a second locking contour on the lock latch.

[0020] The underlying idea is to develop and physically design the vehicle lock and / or the locking mechanism in such a way that a simpler locking mechanism for another vehicle lock can be easily derived from a vehicle lock with a multi-position locking mechanism, in particular a two-latch locking mechanism, by deactivating one of the locking positions or latches and / or by replacing a locking mechanism component.

[0021] This can, for example, save on development and production costs for an additional lock or vehicle lock. In particular, if a multi-position lock is already designed in such a way that one fewer locking position can be implemented, it is possible to reduce development costs for the additional lock or vehicle lock and to leverage economies of scale in the production of both vehicle locks by using identical parts.

[0022] In particular, by simply exchanging a locking component, which is installed on the one hand with an activated second locking contour and on the other hand without a second locking contour or with a deactivated second locking contour, especially in the same motor vehicle lock production line, two different motor vehicle locks for different requirements can be produced in a simple and particularly cost-effective manner.

[0023] Reference may be made to all statements concerning the proposed section of the barrier.

[0024] According to the preferred embodiment of claim 10, the locking pawl system can be designed as a single locking pawl system or as a double locking pawl system, the latter of which can reduce the forces required to open the motor vehicle lock.

[0025] According to the preferred embodiment of claim 11, the lock latch and locking pawl system are arranged and designed in such a way that, upon activation and access to the second locking contour, a further locking state can be produced in the manner described.

[0026] Claims 12 and 13 describe particularly advantageous and simple mechanisms for opening the motor vehicle lock.

[0027] Claim 14 describes a memory function which ensures particularly secure opening of the motor vehicle lock.

[0028] Claim 15 describes preferred embodiments relating to closing the motor vehicle lock and interrupting the closing process by means of a closing aid.

[0029] Claim 16 describes preferred embodiments for the sensorial detection of the states of the motor vehicle lock.

[0030] According to a further teaching as claimed in claim 17, which is also of independent significance, a modular system for a motor vehicle lock is claimed. The modular system comprises a motor vehicle lock of the type described and additionally a further lock latch. The further lock latch is designed to be inserted into the motor vehicle lock in place of the lock latch. It has a first locking contour and a second locking contour. Furthermore, the further lock latch of the proposed modular system is designed such that, when inserted into the motor vehicle lock in place of the lock latch, the first locking contour of the further lock latch is accessible to the locking pawl system for generating the main locking state, and the second locking contour of the further lock latch is accessible to the locking pawl system for generating the further locking state as a preliminary locking state.

[0031] Reference may be made to all explanations regarding the proposed locking component and the proposed vehicle lock, as well as the advantages described therein. These also apply analogously to the modular system.

[0032] According to a further teaching according to claim 18, which also has independent significance, a motor vehicle lock arrangement is claimed with a first motor vehicle lock of the described type and a second motor vehicle lock, wherein the second motor vehicle lock has a lock latch with a first locking contour for locking the motor vehicle lock with a locking pawl system in a first locking state, in particular main locking state, and with a second locking contour for locking the motor vehicle lock with the locking pawl system in a further locking state, in particular pre-locking state, which is activated and accessible.

[0033] Reference may be made to all explanations regarding the proposed locking component and vehicle lock, as well as the proposed modular system and the advantages described therein. These also apply analogously to the vehicle lock arrangement.

[0034] According to the preferred embodiment of claim 19, the lock latches between the first and / or second motor vehicle lock are interchangeable in the manner described.

[0035] According to a further teaching as claimed in claim 21, which also has independent significance, a method for manufacturing motor vehicle locks is claimed.

[0036] It is essential that in a production line for the manufacture of motor vehicle locks the first motor vehicle lock is assembled and in the same production line the second motor vehicle lock is assembled, preferably that at the same station of the production line for the manufacture of the first motor vehicle lock or the second motor vehicle lock either the lock latch of the first motor vehicle lock or the lock latch of the second motor vehicle lock is installed, further preferably that the lock latch of the first motor vehicle lock and the lock latch of the second motor vehicle lock are installed in the respective motor vehicle lock by the same handling unit.

[0037] Reference may be made to all statements concerning the proposed locking component, vehicle lock, modular system and the proposed vehicle lock arrangement.

[0038] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing that merely illustrates exemplary embodiments. The drawing shows Fig. 1 in a) a motor vehicle with proposed motor vehicle locks and b) a proposed locking element in the form of a lock latch, Fig. 2 the locking element of a proposed motor vehicle lock in a) a closed state and in b) an open state, Fig. 3 the locking elements of the motor vehicle locks of a proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement, wherein a) the locking element of a proposed motor vehicle lock with a proposed locking element and b) the locking element of the second motor vehicle lock according to the proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement, Fig. 4 an embodiment of a proposed motor vehicle lock with a proposed locking element or of a first motor vehicle lock according to a proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement, Fig. 5 an embodiment of a proposed motor vehicle lock with a proposed locking element in a rear view of Fig. 4 or a first motor vehicle lock according to a proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement and Fig. 6 an embodiment of the second motor vehicle lock of a proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement.

[0039] The figures show various preferred embodiments. Fig. 1a ) shows a motor vehicle 1 with several proposed motor vehicle locks 2.

[0040] It should be noted in advance that the drawing only shows those components of the proposed motor vehicle lock 2 that are necessary for explaining the teaching. For example, any locking mechanism that may be provided to realize functional states such as "locked", "unlocked", "theft-proof" or the like is not shown.

[0041] The illustrated motor vehicle lock 2 can be applied to virtually all locking elements 3 of a motor vehicle 1. Reference may be made to the introductory part of the description in this respect. In the embodiment of the exemplary embodiment, the motor vehicle lock 2 is particularly advantageous for use on tailgates or trunk lids.

[0042] The proposed motor vehicle lock 2 has a locking mechanism 4 with several locking parts 5. A locking part 5 can, for example, be like the proposed one in the Fig. 1b ) shown section 5 of the barrier.

[0043] The proposed locking element 5 for a locking mechanism 4 of a motor vehicle lock 2 can, in particular, be designed as a lock latch 6, as shown in the exemplary embodiment. The locking element 5 has a first locking contour 7 for locking the motor vehicle lock 2 in a first locked state, in particular a main locked state.

[0044] It is essential that the locking element 5 has a second locking contour 8 for locking the vehicle lock 2 in a further locked state, in particular a pre-locked state, which is deactivated. The deactivation means that the second locking contour 8 is not accessible to another locking element 5 for locking purposes.

[0045] This creates a locking element 5 with a first and second locking contour 8, one of which is inactive. The idea behind this is to develop and physically design the locking element 5 in such a way that both a vehicle lock 2 with a multi-position locking mechanism, in particular a two-latch lock, and a vehicle lock 2 with fewer locking positions, in particular with a single-position locking mechanism or single-latch lock, can be provided in a simple and cost-effective manner. This can be achieved by deactivating one locking contour of a locking element 5. By deactivating one of the locking positions or latches 9 of the locking element 5, a locking mechanism 4 for another vehicle lock 2 can be derived particularly easily from a multi-position locking mechanism.

[0046] This can, for example, save on development and production costs for an additional locking mechanism 4 or vehicle lock 2. In particular, if a multi-position locking mechanism is already designed in such a way that one fewer locking position can be implemented, development costs for the additional locking mechanism 4 or vehicle lock 2 can be reduced, and economies of scale in the production of both vehicle locks 2 can be achieved through the use of identical parts.

[0047] In particular, by simply exchanging a locking part 5, which is installed on the one hand with activated second locking contour 8 and on the other hand with deactivated second locking contour 8, especially in the same motor vehicle lock production line, two different motor vehicle locks 2 for different requirements can be produced in a simple and particularly cost-effective manner.

[0048] In the exemplary embodiment, the locking element 5 is designed to pivot about a pivot axis. It can pivot from an open position to a closed position, in particular the main closed position. Here, it assumes the open position when the vehicle lock 2 is open and the closed position when the vehicle lock 2 is closed.

[0049] The first locking contour 7 and the second, deactivated locking contour 8 are in the Fig. 1a ) shown. The first locking contour 7 and the second locking contour 8 are arranged on the locking element 5 such that, in the activated state, they lock the locking element 5 against movement in the same direction, in particular the same direction of rotation. Here, and preferably, the first locking contour 7 and the second locking contour 8 are arranged on the same plane.

[0050] Furthermore, and preferably, the locking element 5 comprises a metal body 10 and a plastic body 11. The metal body 10 is preferably designed as a stamped part.

[0051] The first locking contour 7 can be provided on the metal body 10. Furthermore, the second locking contour 8 can additionally or alternatively be provided on the metal body 10. To deactivate the second locking contour 8, the plastic body 11 preferably covers the second locking contour 8. This makes it possible to design the vehicle locks 2 and / or the locking mechanisms 4 of the vehicle locks 2 of the proposed vehicle lock arrangement with an identical metal body 10. The variants can be formed, in particular solely, by a modified plastic body 11 or a modified casing 12.

[0052] Particularly preferably, the plastic body 11 is injection-molded over the metal body 10 and / or the plastic body 11 and the metal body 10 are positively and / or force-fittedly connected to each other, in particular by clips. Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that the plastic body 11 and the metal body 10 are materially bonded to each other.

[0053] In the illustrated and thus preferred embodiment, the plastic body 11 is designed as a casing 12 for the metal body 10, which is preferably produced by injection molding.

[0054] Is the locking part 5 designed as a lock latch 6, as in the Fig. 1 As shown, it has, in particular on its metal body 10, a latch entry jaw 13 for the locking element 14. As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the first locking contour 7 can be arranged in the area of ​​the latch entry jaw, and / or the second locking contour 8 can be arranged in the area of ​​the latch entry jaw 13. This allows for a compact design of the motor vehicle lock 2.

[0055] Furthermore, the pivot bearing 15 of the locking part 5 can be provided at least partially by the metal body 10, and it is also possible in principle that the plastic body 11 provides at least part of the pivot bearing 15.

[0056] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the first locking contour 7 is provided on the metal body 10, in particular on the circumference of the metal body 10, and / or that the second locking contour 8 is provided on the metal body 10, in particular on the circumference of the metal body 10, as shown in the Fig. 1b ) is shown.

[0057] Furthermore, it is provided here that the plastic body 11 encloses the first locking contour 7, in particular on all sides. Such a design is particularly easy to implement if the plastic body 11 is designed as a casing 12 of the metal body 10. In this case, the locking contour can be realized, in particular, by a cutout in the plastic body 11.

[0058] Furthermore, in the illustrated and thus preferred embodiment, the second locking contour 8 is offset outwards relative to the first locking contour 7 with respect to a pivot bearing 15 of the locking element 5. This allows for particularly good design and adjustment of the locking contours and the force acting in the closing states associated with the respective locking contours. In particular, this also makes it particularly easy to adjust different engagement depths of a further locking element 5 for the associated closing states.

[0059] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the first locking contour 7 is designed as a detent 9, in particular as a main detent 16, of the locking part 5, and / or that the second locking contour 8 is designed as a deactivated detent 9, in particular as a deactivated pre-detent 17, of the locking part 5.

[0060] The pre-latch 17 and / or the main latch 16 are characterized here, and preferably each, by latching recesses 18 on the locking part 5, particularly on its circumference, especially on the metal body 10 of the locking part 5, which engage in the activated state. In the exemplary embodiment, and preferably, the latches 9, in their respective activated states, each have a double reversal of curvature 19 on the circumference of the locking part 5 when viewed from above.

[0061] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that deactivation is ensured by a covering section 20, in particular of the plastic body 11. This is a particularly simple way to deactivate the second locking contour 8. In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1b ) the cover section 20 extends outwards in the closing direction of rotation of the locking part 5 with respect to the pivot bearing 15 of the locking part 5.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, a pocket 21 may be provided in the area of ​​the overlap section 20. This allows for additional damping of an impact of another locking part 5 on the proposed locking part 5 in this area, and thus a reduction in the operating noise of the vehicle lock 2.

[0063] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the locking element 5 has an engagement contour 22 for a closing aid 23. In particular, the engagement contour 22 can be provided on the metal body 10. This allows a closing aid 23 to be implemented in a particularly simple manner at least in one of the vehicle locks 2 of the proposed vehicle lock arrangement.

[0064] The design allows the engagement contour 22 to be activated and / or deactivated for the closing aid 23. The activated engagement contour 22 allows the lock latch 6 to be gripped and pulled into the closed position by actuating the closing aid 23. Deactivation prevents the engagement contour 22 from being accessed by the closing aid 23. Preferably, the engagement contour 22 is deactivated by the plastic body 11 and / or a casing 12 in the area of ​​the engagement contour 22. This allows the engagement contour 22 to be activated and / or deactivated easily, particularly simply by the plastic body 11 or the casing 12. In particular, the metal body 10 can then be designed identically for different motor vehicle locks 2 with and / or without a closing aid 23.

[0065] A motor vehicle lock 2 with a locking mechanism 4 is further proposed, wherein the locking mechanism 4 comprises a latch 6 and a locking pawl system 24. The locking pawl system 24 can be moved into an open position and a closed position. The motor vehicle lock 2 has an open state in which the latch 6 is pivoted into an open position, and it has a closed state, in particular a main closed state, in which the latch 6 is pivoted into a closed position, in particular a main closed position. In the closed position, the latch 6 is locked at its first locking contour 7 by an engagement with the locking pawl system 24 in the closed position, in particular a main closed position.

[0066] Furthermore, it is provided that the lock latch 6 is designed as a locking part 5 according to the described type and / or that the motor vehicle lock 2 does not assume any further closed state when the lock latch 6 is adjusted from the open position to the closed position and that the locking pawl system 24 for the lock latch 6 is designed and arranged in such a way that by providing a second locking contour 8 on the lock latch 6 an additional closing position for a further closing state of the motor vehicle lock 2, in particular pre-locking state 17, is possible.

[0067] The underlying idea is to develop and physically design the motor vehicle lock 2 and / or the locking part 5 in such a way that a simpler locking mechanism 4 for another motor vehicle lock 2 can be derived particularly easily from a motor vehicle lock 2 with a multi-position locking mechanism, in particular a two-latch locking mechanism, by deactivating one of the locking positions or latches 9 or by replacing a locking part 5, in particular the lock latch 6.

[0068] This can, for example, save on development and production costs for an additional locking mechanism 4 or vehicle lock 2.

[0069] In particular, by simply exchanging a locking part 5, which is installed on the one hand with activated second locking contour 8 and on the other hand without second locking contour 8 or with deactivated second locking contour 8, especially in the same motor vehicle lock production line, two different motor vehicle locks 2 for different requirements can be produced in a simple and particularly cost-effective manner.

[0070] Reference may be made to all statements concerning the proposed locking part 5.

[0071] The locking mechanism 4 with the latch 6 and a locking pawl system 24 is in the Figuren 2 and 3 shown. The lock trap 6 is in the Fig. 2b ) disclosure shown and in the Fig. 2a The main locking position shown is pivotable. The latch 6 is spring-loaded here and preferably in the open position. When the vehicle lock 2 is installed, the latch 6, in a locked position, engages with a locking element 14, in particular a locking bolt, or the like. Preferably, the vehicle lock 2 is arranged on the relevant locking element 3, for example, the vehicle door or the like, and the locking element 14 is arranged on the vehicle body. Alternatively, the vehicle lock 2 can be arranged on the vehicle body and the locking element 14 on the relevant locking element 3, for example, the vehicle door or the like.

[0072] Furthermore, and preferably, the locking pawl system 24 has a primary locking pawl 25 that can pivot between an open position and a closed position. The primary locking pawl 25 is spring-loaded in the open position. The proposed motor vehicle lock 2 can, in principle, be designed as a single-latch lock. However, it is preferably designed as a double-latch lock, as is also shown in the exemplary embodiments.

[0073] Therefore, the locking pawl system 24 can also have a secondary locking pawl 26 that pivots between an open and a closed position. The secondary locking pawl 26 is spring-loaded, preferably in the open position. In particular, if a secondary locking pawl 26 is provided, the primary locking pawl 25 can be designed to be self-opening in the main closed state of the vehicle lock 2. This means that the primary locking pawl 25 can be forced out of its closed position by pressure from the lock latch 6.

[0074] In the Fig. 2a The locking mechanism 4 is shown in the main locked state of the vehicle lock 2. The latch 6 is in its locked position, here the main locked position. The locking pawl system 24 is also in its locked position. The primary locking pawl 25 is engaged with the first locking contour 7 in the locked position and prevents the latch 6 from opening. For this purpose, the primary locking pawl 25 preferably has a first engagement section 27, against which the latch 6, with its first locking contour 7, rests in the main locked state. The secondary locking pawl 26 is engaged with the primary locking pawl 25 in its locked position and prevents the primary locking pawl 25 from opening. The secondary locking pawl 26 locks the vehicle lock 2.

[0075] In the closed state, in particular the main closed state, the lock latch 6 is pivoted into a closed position, in particular the main closed position, and is locked at its first locking contour 7 by an engagement with the primary locking pawl 25 in the closed position and by an engagement of the primary locking pawl 25 with the secondary locking pawl 26 in its closed position.

[0076] Such a design makes it possible to achieve particularly low opening forces for the vehicle lock 2.

[0077] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that when the second locking contour 8 is activated and made accessible, or when the second locking contour 8 is provided, the locking latch system 24 is configured to lock the motor vehicle lock 2 in the further locked state, in particular the pre-locking state. This is described in the Fig. 3 This is illustrated by comparing illustrations a) and b). In this hypothetical pre-locked state, the primary locking pawl 25 would be engaged with the second locking contour 8 in a pre-locked position, preventing the latch 6 from opening. For this purpose, the primary locking pawl 25 preferably has a second engagement section 28, against which the latch 6, with its second locking contour 8, bears in the optionally hypothetical pre-locked state. This second engagement section 28 is preferably arranged relative to the first engagement section 27 with respect to the primary locking pawl pivot axis 29 in the open position direction of the primary locking pawl 25, and in particular on the circumference of the primary locking pawl 25. Preferably, the contour of the first engagement section 27 is more curved than the contour of the second engagement section 28, particularly with respect to the respective length of the respective engagement section.

[0078] In the Fig. 3a ) is the lock 4 of the Fig. 2 with the depiction of the lock trap from the Fig. 1b ) shown, in which the hidden edges of the metal body 10 are depicted with dashed lines. Here, the second locking contour 8 is deactivated. The locking pawl system 24, in particular the primary locking pawl 25, cannot reach the second locking contour 8. It is covered by the plastic body 11 or the casing 12. When the latch 6 is moved from the open position to the closed position, here the main locking position, the vehicle lock 2 does not assume any further closed state. However, the locking pawl system 24 is designed and configured for the latch 6 such that by providing a second locking contour 8 on the latch 6 – as shown in the Fig. 3b ) shown - an additional locking position for a further locking state of the vehicle lock 2, here the pre-locking state, is possible. This only requires exposing the second locking contour 8 on the lock latch 6, for example analogous to the one shown in the Fig. 3 of the type shown, or, of replacing the lock latch 6 with one with two activated locking contours, as shown in the Fig. 3b ) is shown.

[0079] It should be noted here that the latch 6 of the proposed vehicle lock 2 does not need to have a second locking contour 8, but rather that for the implementation of the proposed vehicle lock 2 it is sufficient that the locking pawl system 24 is configured to interact with such a second locking contour 8 to achieve a further locking state. This configuration of the locking pawl system 24 includes not only the structural design of the locking pawl system 24 but also its positioning relative to the latch 6.

[0080] Such a lock latch 6 can also exhibit all the features described in connection with the proposed locking part 5, either individually or in combination.

[0081] In a further preferred embodiment, it can be provided that, upon activation and accessibility of the second locking contour 8, or upon provision of the second locking contour 8, the locking pawl system 24 is designed and configured for the lock latch 6 such that the primary locking pawl 25, in the further closing state, particularly the pre-closing state, locks the lock latch 6 and the primary locking pawl 25 is released by the secondary locking pawl 26. Preferably, different engagement depths are then realized or can be realized for the primary locking pawl 25 for the pre-latch 17 and the main latch 16.

[0082] The primary locking pawl 25 and / or the secondary locking pawl 26 can and preferably can be designed as push-type locking pawls. These generally allow for a more compact design of the vehicle lock 2. Alternatively, the primary locking pawl 25 and / or the secondary locking pawl 26 can also be designed as pull-type locking pawls.

[0083] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that a release lever 30 is provided for opening the vehicle lock 2, in particular by motor. This release lever 30 is located in the Fig. 4 As shown, it can be actuated here by an electric motor 31, preferably via a cable 32 or the like, located in the vehicle lock 2. The release lever 30 is located here, and preferably in a different plane than the locking mechanism 4. In the exemplary embodiment, the release lever 30 is located in a plane parallel to and above the plane of the locking mechanism 4.

[0084] Here, and preferably, the release lever 30 is configured to act first on the secondary locking pawl 26 and then on the primary locking pawl 25 to open the vehicle lock 2. Preferably, the release lever 30 acts directly on the secondary locking pawl 26 to open the vehicle lock 2. Afterwards, the release lever 30 can act directly on the primary locking pawl 25 or indirectly on the primary locking pawl 25 via the secondary locking pawl 26.

[0085] In the exemplary embodiment, as in the Fig. 5 As shown, the release lever pivot axis 33 is arranged coaxially with the secondary locking pawl pivot axis 34. Alternatively, the release lever pivot axis 33 can be arranged coaxially with the primary locking pawl pivot axis 29. These arrangements allow for a compact design of the vehicle lock 2 and, in particular, make it possible to arrange the release lever 30 on the same bearing boss as one of the locking pawls.

[0086] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the motor vehicle lock 2 has an operating lever 35 that can be manually operated from the outside of the lock for opening the motor vehicle lock 2. As in the Fig. 4 As shown, the actuating lever 35 for opening the motor vehicle lock 2 preferably acts on the release lever 30.

[0087] The actuating lever pivot axis 35 is arranged here, and preferably coaxially, with the release lever pivot axis 33 and / or with the secondary locking pawl pivot axis 34 and / or with the primary locking pawl pivot axis 29. These arrangements allow for a compact design of the vehicle lock 2 and, in particular, make it possible to arrange the release lever 30 on the same bearing boss as one of the locking pawls.

[0088] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the vehicle lock 2, in particular the release lever 30, has a memory function for storing the locking pawl system 24 in an open position until the lock latch 6 pivots into an open position during its opening process. When the vehicle lock 2 is opened, the release lever 30 pivots into a lifting position 36, thereby moving the locking pawl system 24 into an open position. The release lever 30 has a memory arm which is preferably configured to hold the locking pawl system 24 in an open position, preferably until the lock latch 6 pivots into an open position during its opening process. In the exemplary embodiment, the memory arm engages with a detent contour 37. This is preferably formed on the lock latch 6, in particular on a main surface and / or on the circumference of the lock latch 6.This is indicated by an arrow 38 in the . Fig. 4 illustrated.

[0089] This memory function can ensure particularly secure opening of the vehicle lock 2. It is especially advantageous for vehicle locks 2 of tailgates or trunk lids and guarantees secure opening, for example, when the tailgate or trunk lid is bearing an additional snow load.

[0090] Furthermore, and preferably, the motor vehicle 1 is provided with a, in particular motorized, closing aid 23 for moving the lock latch 6 into its closed position, in particular the main closed position. To move the lock latch 6 into its closed position, the closing aid 23 engages, preferably, an engagement contour 22 of the lock latch 6 and moves it into its closed position, in particular the main closed position. Here, and preferably, the closing aid 23 is designed as a lever mechanism 39. In the exemplary embodiment, the closing aid 23 has a first lever 41 pivotable about a first lever pivot axis 40, which is fixed to the lock housing, and a second lever 42 pivotably mounted on this first lever 41, which has a pawl 43 for engaging the engagement contour 22 and for moving the lock latch 6 into its closed position.The first lever 41 and the second lever 42 are spring-loaded against each other, preferably in such a way that the second lever 42 pushes towards the lock latch 6.

[0091] The first lever 41 is mounted here, and preferably on a bearing dome arranged laterally to the locking mechanism 4. Here, and preferably, the first lever 41 is spring-loaded in the direction of the lock latch 6.

[0092] Furthermore, a movement guide 44 for the closing aid 23 is provided here, preferably. This acts on the second lever 42. In the exemplary embodiment, the movement guide 44 is formed by a guide pin. This is preferably attached to the back plate 45.

[0093] The first lever 41 has a force application point 46 for a closing assist drive 47. The closing assist drive 47 can be part of the vehicle lock 2 and / or be arranged separately from the vehicle lock 2 and act on the force application point 46, for example, via a force transmission means 48, in particular a Bowden cable. Preferably, the closing aid 23 is designed to transmit the force of the closing assist drive 47 to the lock latch 6 differently depending on the actuation distance 49 traveled by the force application point 46.

[0094] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention - which is contained in the Figuren 4 and 5As shown, the release lever 30 and / or the actuating lever 35 are designed to eject the closing aid 23 during a closing process by actuation and thus interrupt the closing process. For this purpose, the release lever 30 can act on the closing aid 23, preferably the second lever 42 of the closing aid 23, via a release lever transmission section 50. Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that the actuating lever 35 can act on the closing aid 23, preferably the second lever 42 of the closing aid 23, via an actuating lever transmission section 35. A force application section 51 can be provided on the closing aid for this purpose. In the exemplary embodiment, this is formed by a bolt provided on the latch 43.

[0095] Furthermore, and preferably, it is provided here that the motor vehicle lock 2 has at least one sensor 52 for detecting a state of the motor vehicle lock 2, in particular an open state and / or a closed state, in particular the main closed state, of the motor vehicle lock 2. In particular, the at least one sensor 52 can be designed as a microswitch.

[0096] In principle, it can be provided that the at least one sensor 52 on the lock latch 6 detects the at least one state of the motor vehicle lock 2, in particular an open state and / or a closed state of the motor vehicle lock 2.

[0097] In the exemplary embodiment and preferably the motor vehicle lock 2 has a sensor 52 for detecting a position of the primary locking pawl 25 and / or a sensor 52 for detecting a position of the secondary locking pawl 26.

[0098] These sensors can detect an open state and / or a closed state, in particular a main closing state, of the vehicle lock 2. Preferably, these two sensors 52 can also detect the further closing state, in particular a pre-closing state, if a second locking contour 8 is present and / or activated.

[0099] A modular system for a motor vehicle lock 2 is further proposed. The modular system comprises a motor vehicle lock 2 of the type described and additionally a further lock latch 53. The further lock latch 53 is designed to be inserted into the motor vehicle lock 2 in place of the lock latch 6. Furthermore, the proposal provides that the further lock latch 53 has a first locking contour 7 and a second locking contour 8. The further lock latch 53 is designed such that, when inserted into the motor vehicle lock 2 in place of the lock latch 6, the first locking contour 7 of the further lock latch 53 is accessible to the locking pawl system 24 for generating the main locking state, and the second locking contour 8 of the further lock latch 53 is accessible to the locking pawl system 24 for generating the further locking state as a preliminary locking state 17.An embodiment of a motor vehicle lock 2 according to the modular system, in which the additional lock latch 53 is used instead of the lock latch 6, is shown in the . Fig. 6 shown.

[0100] Reference may be made to all statements concerning the proposed locking part 5 and the proposed motor vehicle lock 2.

[0101] Furthermore, a motor vehicle lock arrangement is proposed, comprising a first motor vehicle lock 2 of the described type and a second motor vehicle lock 2, wherein the second motor vehicle lock 2 has a latch 6 with a first locking contour 7 for locking the motor vehicle lock 2 with the locking pawl system 24 in a first locked state, in particular the main locked state, and with a second locking contour 8 for locking the motor vehicle lock 2 with the locking pawl system 24 in a further locked state, in particular the pre-locking state, which is activated and accessible. An embodiment of a first motor vehicle lock 2 is described in the Figuren 4 and 5 An embodiment of a second motor vehicle lock 2 is shown in the Fig. 6 shown.

[0102] Reference may be made to all statements concerning the proposed locking part 5, motor vehicle lock 2 and the proposed modular system.

[0103] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the locking latch 6 of the first motor vehicle lock 2 can be inserted into the second motor vehicle lock 2 instead of the locking latch 6 of the second motor vehicle lock 2 and / or that the locking latch 6 of the second motor vehicle lock 2 can be inserted into the first motor vehicle lock 2 instead of the locking latch 6 of the first motor vehicle lock 2.

[0104] The first vehicle lock 2 can be brought into a pre-locked state and a main locked state by the latch 6 of the second vehicle lock 2. The second vehicle lock 2 can be brought into a main locked state free of a pre-locked state and into a main locked state by the latch 6 of the first vehicle lock 2. By exchanging the latch 6 with the other latch 53, the vehicle lock 2 can be changed from one with only one locking state, here the main locked state, to one with two locking states, here the pre-locked state and the main locked state. The reverse effect is achieved by exchanging the latches back.

[0105] The bearing bosses for the lock latch 6 and the locking pawl system 24, in particular the primary locking pawl 25 and, optionally, the secondary locking pawl 26, are arranged in the first and / or second vehicle lock 2, preferably in the same orientation relative to each other. They are rigidly connected to a backplate 45 of the respective vehicle lock. The backplate 45 preferably has a backplate entry groove 54 for the locking element 14. To further increase rigidity, an additional reinforcing plate 55 can be provided, to which the bearing bosses are also rigidly connected. This is preferably arranged on the side of the vehicle lock 2 opposite the backplate 45, relative to the locking mechanism 4. In a preferred embodiment, the bearing boss of the closing aid 23, in particular the bearing boss of the first lever 41 of the closing aid 23, is rigidly connected to the backplate 45 and / or the reinforcing plate 55.Alternatively, the bearing dome can, for example, be rigidly connected to the back plate 45 and mounted in a bearing of the lock housing.

[0106] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the second vehicle lock 2 has a closing aid 23 and / or that the first vehicle lock 2 does not have a closing aid 23. Alternatively, a closing aid 23 can also be provided for the first vehicle lock 2, as is the case in the Fig. 4 and 5 shown.

[0107] In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle lock 2, in particular the first vehicle lock 2, does not have a closing aid 23. Here, it is preferably provided that the backplate 45 has a recess 56, in particular a punched hole, for receiving a bearing boss of a closing aid 23, and / or that the reinforcement plate 55 has a recess 56 for receiving a bearing boss of a closing aid 23, and / or that the lock housing has a bearing for receiving a bearing boss of a closing aid 23. Furthermore, preferably, the lock latch 6 of this vehicle lock 2 can have an engagement contour 22 for a closing aid 23, as described above, which is activated or deactivated. In this way, the backplate 45 and / or lock housing and / or reinforcement plate 55 can be used for vehicle locks 2 with and without a closing aid 23.

[0108] Furthermore, a method for manufacturing motor vehicle locks 2 for providing the described motor vehicle lock arrangement is proposed.

[0109] The method provides that in a production line for the manufacture of motor vehicle locks 2 the first motor vehicle lock 2 is assembled and in the same production line the second motor vehicle lock 2 is assembled, preferably that at the same station of the production line for the manufacture of the first motor vehicle lock 2 or the second motor vehicle lock 2 either the lock latch 6 of the first motor vehicle lock 2 or the lock latch 6 of the second motor vehicle lock 2 is installed, further preferably that the lock latch 6 of the first motor vehicle lock 2 and the lock latch 6 of the second motor vehicle lock 2 are installed in the respective motor vehicle lock 2 by the same handling unit.

[0110] Reference may be made to all statements concerning the proposed locking part 5, the proposed motor vehicle lock 2, the proposed modular system and the proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement. Reference symbol list

[0111] 1 Motor vehicle 2 Motor vehicle lock 3 Locking element 4 Lock 5 Lock part 6 Lock latch 7 First locking contour 8 Second locking contour 9 Latch 10 Metal body 11 Plastic body 12 Sheath 13 Lock latch entry jaw 14 Locking part 15 Swivel bearing 16 Main latch 17 Pre-latch 18 Latch recess 19 Curve reversal 20 Cover section 21 Pocket 22 Engagement contour 23 Pulling aid 24 Latch system 25 Primary latch 26 Secondary latch 27 First engagement section 28 Second engagement section 29 Primary latch pivot axis 30 Release lever 31 Electric motor 32 Cable 33 Release lever pivot axis 34 Secondary latch pivot axis 35 Actuating lever 36 Lifting report 37 Detent contour 38 Arrow 39 Lever mechanism 40 Lever pivot axis 41 First lever 42 Second lever 43 Latch 44 Movement guide 45 Backplate 46 Force application point 47 Closing auxiliary drive 48 Power transmission means 49 Actuation path 50 Release lever transmission section 51 Force application section 52 Sensor 53 Additional lock latch 54 Backplate entry jaw55Reinforcement plate 56Recess

Claims

1. Locking part for a locking mechanism (4) of a motor vehicle lock (2), in particular a lock latch (6), with a first locking contour (7) for locking the motor vehicle lock (2) in a first closed state, in particular the main closed state, characterized by that the locking part (5) has a second locking contour (8) for locking the motor vehicle lock (2) in a further locking state, in particular pre-locking state, which is deactivated, that The deactivation means that the second locking contour (8) is not accessible for locking another locking part (5).

2. Locking part according to claim 1, characterized by the fact thatthe locking part (5) comprises a metal body (10) and a plastic body (11), in particular that the second locking contour (8) is provided on the metal body (10) and the plastic body (11) covers the second locking contour (8) to deactivate the second locking contour (8), preferably that the plastic body (11) is injection-molded over the metal body (10) and / or the plastic body (11) and the metal body (10) are positively and / or force-fit connected to each other, in particular clipped together.

3. Locking part according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the first locking contour (7) is provided on the metal body (10), in particular on the circumference of the metal body (10), and / or that the second locking contour (8) is provided on the metal body (10), in particular on the circumference of the metal body (10), preferably that the plastic body (11) surrounds the first locking contour (7), in particular on all sides.

4. Locking element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the second locking contour (8) is offset outwards relative to a pivot bearing (15) of the locking part (5) compared to the first locking contour (7).

5. Locking element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the first locking contour (7) is designed as a detent (9), in particular as a main detent (16), of the locking part (5), and / or that the second locking contour (8) is designed as a deactivated detent (9), in particular as a deactivated pre-detent (17), of the locking part (5).

6. Locking element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that deactivation is ensured by a covering section (20), in particular of the plastic body (11), preferably that the covering section (20) extends outwards in the closing rotation direction of the locking part (5) with respect to the pivot bearing (15) of the locking part (5).

7. Locking element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatA pocket (21) is formed in the area of ​​the overlap section (20).

8. Locking element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the locking part (5) has an attack contour (22) for a closing aid (23), in particular that the attack contour (22) is provided on the metal body (10), preferably that the attack contour (22) is activated or deactivated for the closing aid (23), wherein the activated attack contour (22) allows the latch (6) to be gripped and pulled into the closed position by actuating the closing aid, or the deactivation causes the attack contour (22) to be inaccessible for a closing aid.

9. Motor vehicle lock with a locking mechanism (4), wherein the locking mechanism (4) comprises a latch (6) and a locking pawl system (24), wherein the locking pawl system (24) can be moved into an open position and into a closed position, wherein the motor vehicle lock (2) has an open state in which the latch (6) is pivoted into an open position and a closed state, in particular a main closed state, in which the latch (6) is pivoted into a closed position, in particular a main closed position, and is locked at its first locking contour (7) by an engagement with the locking pawl system (24) in the closed position, in particular a main closed position, wherein the motor vehicle lock (2) can be moved from its open state by adjusting the latch (6) from its open position into its closed position and the locking pawl system (24) engaging the latch (6) into its closed state. characterized by thatthe lock latch (6) is designed as a locking part (5) according to one of the preceding claims, and / or, that the motor vehicle lock (2) does not assume any further closed state when the lock latch (6) is adjusted from the open position to the closed position and the locking pawl system (24) is provided to realize an additional closing position for a further closing state of the motor vehicle lock (2), in particular pre-locking state (17), by providing a second locking contour (8) on the lock latch (6).

10. Motor vehicle lock according to claim 9, characterized by the fact thatthe locking latch system (24) has a primary locking latch (25) pivotable between an open position and a closed position, preferably that the locking latch system (24) has a secondary locking latch (26) pivotable between an open position and a closed position, further preferably that in the closed state, in particular the main closed state, the latch (6) is pivoted into a closed position, in particular the main closed position, and is locked at its first locking contour (7) by an engagement with the primary locking latch (25) in the closed position and by an engagement of the primary locking latch (25) with the secondary locking latch (26) in its closed position.

11. Motor vehicle lock according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by the fact thatWhen the second locking contour (8) is activated and made accessible, or when the second locking contour (8) is provided, the locking pawl system (24) is configured to lock the motor vehicle lock (2) in the further closing state, in particular the pre-locking state, in particular that the primary locking pawl (25) locks the lock latch (6) in the further closing state and the primary locking pawl (25) is released by the secondary locking pawl (26).

12. Motor vehicle lock according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by the fact thata release lever (30) is provided for opening the motor vehicle lock (2), in particular by motor, preferably that the release lever (30) is configured to act first on the secondary locking pawl (26) and then on the primary locking pawl (25) to open the motor vehicle lock (2), further preferably that the release lever (30) acts directly on the secondary locking pawl (26) to open the motor vehicle lock (2) and then directly on the primary locking pawl (25) or then indirectly on the primary locking pawl (25) via the secondary locking pawl (26).

13. Motor vehicle lock according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterized by the fact thatthe motor vehicle lock (2) has a manually operable operating lever (35) from outside the lock for opening the motor vehicle lock (2), preferably that the manual operating lever (35) for opening the motor vehicle lock (2) acts on the release lever (30), and / or that it has a common pivot axis with the release lever (30) and / or the secondary locking pawl (26) and / or the primary locking pawl.

14. Motor vehicle lock according to one of claims 9 to 13, characterized by the fact that the motor vehicle lock (2), in particular the release lever (30), has a memory function for storing the locking latch system (24) in an open position until the lock latch (6) is pivoted into an open position during its opening process.

15. Motor vehicle lock according to one of claims 9 to 14, characterized by the fact thatthe motor vehicle (1) has a, in particular motorized, closing aid (23) for moving the lock latch (6) into its closing position, in particular main closing position, preferably that the release lever (30) and / or the actuating lever (35) are designed to eject the closing aid (23) during a closing process by actuation and to interrupt the closing process.

16. Motor vehicle lock according to one of claims 9 to 15, characterized by the fact thatthe motor vehicle lock (2) has at least one sensor (52) for detecting a state of the motor vehicle lock (2), in particular an open state and / or a closed state of the motor vehicle lock (2), preferably that the motor vehicle lock (2) has a sensor (52) for detecting a position of the primary locking pawl (25) and / or a sensor (52) for detecting a position of the secondary locking pawl (26) in order to detect an open state and / or a closed state of the motor vehicle lock (2).

17. Kit for a motor vehicle lock (2), characterized by the fact thatThe modular system comprises a motor vehicle lock (2) according to one of claims 9 to 16 and additionally comprises a further lock latch (53), wherein the further lock latch (53) is designed to be insertable into the motor vehicle lock (2) in place of the lock latch (6), wherein the further lock latch (53) has a first locking contour (7) and a second locking contour (8), wherein the further lock latch (53) is designed such that, when inserted into the motor vehicle lock (2) in place of the lock latch (6), the first locking contour (7) of the further lock latch (53) is accessible to the locking pawl system (24) for generating the main locking state and the second locking contour (8) of the further lock latch (53) is accessible to the locking pawl system (24) for generating the further locking state as a pre-locking state (17).

18. Motor vehicle lock arrangement comprising a first motor vehicle lock (2) according to one of claims 9 to 16 and a second motor vehicle lock (2), wherein the second motor vehicle lock (2) has a lock latch (6) with a first locking contour (7) for locking the motor vehicle lock (2) with the locking pawl system (24) in a first locking state, in particular main locking state, and with a second locking contour (8) for locking the motor vehicle lock (2) with the locking pawl system (24) in a further locking state, in particular pre-locking state, which is activated and accessible.

19. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 18, characterized by , characterized by the fact thatthe latch (6) of the first motor vehicle lock (2) can be inserted into the second motor vehicle lock (2) instead of the latch (6) of the second motor vehicle lock (2) and / or that the latch (6) of the second motor vehicle lock (2) can be inserted into the first motor vehicle lock (2) instead of the latch (6) of the first motor vehicle lock (2), preferably that the first motor vehicle lock (2) can be brought into a pre-locking state and a main locking state with the latch (6) of the second motor vehicle lock (2), and / or that the second motor vehicle lock (2) is free from a pre-locking state and can be brought into a main locking state with the latch (6) of the first motor vehicle lock (2).

20. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 18 or 19, characterized by the fact that the second motor vehicle lock (2) has a closing aid (23) and / or the first motor vehicle lock (2) does not have a closing aid (23).

21. Method for manufacturing motor vehicle locks (2) for providing a motor vehicle lock arrangement according to one of claims 18 or 19, characterized by that in a production line for the manufacture of motor vehicle locks (2) the first motor vehicle lock (2) is assembled and in the same production line the second motor vehicle lock (2) is assembled, preferably that at the same station of the production line for the manufacture of the first motor vehicle lock (2) or the second motor vehicle lock (2) either the lock latch (6) of the first motor vehicle lock (2) or the lock latch (6) of the second motor vehicle lock (2) is installed, further preferably that the lock latch (6) of the first motor vehicle lock (2) and the lock latch (6) of the second motor vehicle lock (2) are installed by the same handling unit in the respective motor vehicle lock (2).

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