Vehicle door for a motor vehicle, and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle door (10) for a motor vehicle, having a handle element (14) arranged on the outside of the door and having at least one operator control element (16), which is integrated into the handle element (14), for electrically locking and / or unlocking a lock of the vehicle door (10), wherein the handle element (14) is at least semi-automatically movable out of an outer skin region (22) of the vehicle door (10) and relative to the outer skin region (22) between a covered position (P1), in which the handle element (14) cannot be gripped, and an operator control position (P2), in which the handle element (14) and the operator control element (16) can be gripped and / or operated. The invention also relates to a method for electrically locking and / or unlocking a lock of such a vehicle door (10).

Description

[0001] Vehicle door for a motor vehicle and method

[0002] The invention relates to a vehicle door for a motor vehicle according to the preamble of patent claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for electrically locking and / or unlocking a lock of the vehicle door.

[0003] Currently, handle elements known as “winglets” are either placed in a shaft strip or placed or arranged directly on a parapet in a B-pillar area.

[0004] The prior art already discloses a vehicle door with a handle element which has an operating element integrated into the handle element and which protrudes on the outside of the door, above a door sill, for gripping around.

[0005] It is an object of the invention to provide a substantially invisible and convenient locking and / or unlocking of a vehicle door.

[0006] This object is achieved according to the invention by a vehicle door for a motor vehicle having the features of patent claim 1 and by means of a method according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent patent claims and the description.

[0007] A vehicle door, door or side door according to the invention for a motor vehicle, in particular for a passenger car, comprises an arranged handle element or "winglet" in which an operating element for electrically locking and / or unlocking a lock of the vehicle door is integrated. The handle element is also referred to as an outside handle or an outside door handle, by means of which the vehicle door can be adjusted or pivoted from a closed position to an open position, for example by pulling. In the closed position, at least a partial area of ​​the body opening is closed by the vehicle door. In the open position, the vehicle door releases the partial area of ​​the body opening, so that, for example, when the vehicle door is open, a person can enter or exit an interior via the released partial area of ​​the body opening.

[0008] In order to achieve the object of the invention and thus provide a substantially invisible and convenient locking and / or unlocking of a vehicle door, the invention provides that the handle element can be adjusted at least partially automatically from an outer skin region of the vehicle door relative to the outer skin region between a covering position, in which the handle element cannot be grasped, and an operating position, in which the handle element and the operating element can be grasped and / or operated. The partially automatic adjustment of the handle element makes operation and thus the electrical locking and / or unlocking of the vehicle door corresponding to the handle element easier and more attractive for a user or person.The user no longer has to search for the handle element or operate it manually; instead, the adjustment is at least partially automatic, and in particular fully automatic, as soon as the user stands at the vehicle door.

[0009] To achieve aesthetic integration of the handle element into the vehicle design and thus move away from a version of the handle element that permanently protrudes from one side of the vehicle, the proposed solution according to the invention proposes a particularly discreet and thus aesthetically pleasing covering position. In this covering position, the handle element is thus essentially invisible or not visible and is, for example, concealed. In particular, the handle element is arranged flush with the outer skin area on one level, whereby the visibility of the handle element can be significantly varied, even to the point of complete invisibility. This creates a clean, seamless appearance of the vehicle surface, without any distracting elements that could impair the exterior design.

[0010] Thus, according to the invention, the handle element is retracted and / or folded in flush with the immediate outer skin area in the covering position. In particular, to enable a seamless and aesthetically pleasing transition from the handle element to the immediate outer skin area, the handle element is to be adjusted at least partially automatically in the covering position so that it is flush and flush with the immediate outer skin area. This can also be achieved, for example, by means of a panel arranged on the handle element or by means of a special cover element made of the same material as the outer skin area, which are designed to enable a substantially seamless transition after the handle element has been adjusted.These cover elements are specifically designed to minimize any gaps or joints and provide an improved transition between the handle element and the surrounding surface or outer skin. They also offer protection against water and dirt, particularly for the operating element. By flush-mounting or adjusting the handle element to the cover position, a particularly harmonious and virtually invisible integration into the outer skin or vehicle surface is achieved or provided. This contributes to the aesthetic design of the vehicle side and thus also of the vehicle or motor vehicle, thereby minimizing any disruptive elements, gaps, or joints.

[0011] Thus, the handle element only becomes visible when adjusted to the operating position, allowing the user to easily and conveniently operate the handle element and thus lock and / or unlock the lock. This locking and / or unlocking can be performed, for example, by manually pulling and / or pushing the handle element or by activating a mechanical and / or electronic locking system of the vehicle door using the integrated control element.

[0012] The opening process of the vehicle door can thus be carried out, for example, by first placing the vehicle door in the closed position flush against the vehicle body while the lock is engaged or disengaged. In this situation, the handle element is in the covering position and also lies flush against the outer skin, making it essentially invisible. This creates a virtually seamless surface on the vehicle side, which contributes to the desired aesthetic design of the vehicle or motor vehicle.

[0013] In order to open the vehicle door and move it into the open position, for example to get in, the handle element is moved from the cover position to the operating position. This makes the handle element visible and tangible, while the integrated control element can be operated. The user can now use the control element to unlock the vehicle door lock or, if the vehicle is locked, to lock it. The handle element can then be used to move the vehicle door from the closed position to the open position by pulling and / or pivoting the vehicle door. Furthermore, the use of a drive, actuator or mechanism is provided to enable reliable adjustment of the handle element. The components are securely arranged in a corresponding receptacle or holder to ensure smooth operation.The adjustment or movement of the handle element from the vehicle side towards the user enables ergonomic operation, as the handle element is adjusted or placed in an ergonomic and efficient position for the user.

[0014] The invisible locking and / or unlocking of the vehicle door also improves security. Potential thieves or unauthorized persons have difficulty identifying or tampering with the handle element, as it is discreet and unobtrusive when concealed.

[0015] The drive, actuator, or mechanism can have various technical designs. For example, it can be an electric motor controlled by a control device. Alternatively, a hydraulic or pneumatic system can be used to enable the movement and actuation of the lock, with the operating element and / or handle element enabling actuation via the control device. The selection of the appropriate drive depends on various factors such as size, function, weight, and intended adjustment.

[0016] The locking and unlocking of the vehicle door as well as the adjustment of the handle element is thus advantageous through the inventive integration of the handle element into a receptacle provided for this purpose on the vehicle door, whereby design and function are combined and a particularly advantageous solution to the problem is proposed.

[0017] Furthermore, by combining the handle element, which is significantly smaller than exterior door handles, with the control element or "smart wing" using innovative kinematics, a flush-mounted control point integrated into the door's outer skin can be created with a significantly reduced cutout in the outer skin. This is particularly useful for frameless vehicle doors.

[0018] Overall, the inventive solution offers an effective combination of comfort, aesthetics, and safety. It enables convenient and invisible locking and / or unlocking of the vehicle door, thereby enhancing the driving experience and enhancing the vehicle design.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the handle element is arranged in a direct area below a door sill of the vehicle door. The vehicle door thus has the handle element on the outside of the door, which, particularly in the installed position of the vehicle door in the vertical direction of the motor vehicle, is arranged below the door sill of the vehicle door. The door sill is also simply referred to as a sill or window sill or edge or beltline, or the door sill is formed by a beltline or coincides with the beltline.In particular, the door sill is or forms an edge, in particular a lower edge, by which, for example, a window opening, also referred to as a window opening, for a window, in particular for a side window, of the vehicle door is at least partially delimited, in particular in the installed position of the vehicle door and, with respect to the closed position of the vehicle door, downwards in the vertical direction of the motor vehicle. A particular advantage of this arrangement is the possible use of space in the basic structure of the vehicle door, which can be used particularly cost-effectively to form the receptacle for the handle element. Furthermore, such an area is already known to users, whereby an intuitive grip on this area can lead to the adjustment of the handle element without the user having to find a handle elsewhere, which may be more complicated. For example, a light element can also be assigned to the handle element in order to further improve operability.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the handle element is linearly adjustable for gripping and / or providing the operating element into the operating position. One possible implementation of the intended adjustment of the handle element consists in that a linear movement initially occurs when adjusting the handle element into the operating position. The handle element extends linearly and is already designed as a handle and has the cover so that it is essentially invisible in the covering position. As a result, only a linear adjustment towards the user is required. The handle element extends out of a housing and can therefore be used. The linear adjustment occurs in particular relative to the outer skin area, in particular perpendicular to a plane created by the outer skin area.In yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the handle element is rotatable relative to an axis and by a distance from the axis for gripping and / or for providing the operating element in the operating position. Thus, further embodiments and variants as well as rotation options are also possible for adjusting the handle element into the operating position. Various mechanisms, directions of movement, and folding functions can be used to adapt the handle element according to the requirements of the vehicle design and user-friendliness. In particular, a rotating extension around the axis takes place, in particular along a circumference of a circular movement provided by the distance.

[0021] For this purpose, for example, rail elements, axes, rotary actuators, other adjustment components and control devices are arranged.

[0022] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the handle element has a sensor device for at least partially automatic adjustment between the covering position and the operating position. One possible implementation is the use of a proximity sensor in the sensor device. This detects the approach of a user to the vehicle and automatically triggers the adjustment of the handle element from the covering position to the operating position. The proximity sensor can be designed, for example, based on infrared, ultrasound, or other detection technologies.

[0023] Another implementation involves enhancing the handle element with a GPS function. This allows the vehicle to detect the user's position relative to the vehicle and, for example, also set a security modality for adjusting the handle element accordingly. This can be used particularly in combination with vehicle access detection or an anti-theft device.

[0024] Furthermore, the handle element can have a communication interface that establishes a wireless connection to a device external to the vehicle, such as an ID transmitter or identification transmitter, a key, or a wireless device such as a mobile phone. Via this connection, the handle element can be automatically controlled and adjusted between the cover position and the operating position. For example, the identification transmitter or the key can serve as a trigger to adjust the handle element to the operating position upon detection. The use of a sensor device thus enables automatic, particularly convenient and safe adjustment of the handle element between the various positions.

[0025] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control element comprises a further sensor device for actuation. This further sensor device enables the activation or operation of the control element in a particularly convenient and intuitive, as well as essentially contactless, manner.

[0026] In a first embodiment, the sensor device utilizes an electromechanical sensor that requires only a minimal deformation or slight pressure to be activated. This means that the user only needs to lightly touch or press the control element to trigger the desired function. This electromechanical sensor detects the minimal mechanical change and sends a corresponding signal to activate the control element and thus operate the lock.

[0027] In a second embodiment, the use of a capacitive sensor in the sensor device is provided, which enables essentially contactless operation. The capacitive sensor detects the proximity or touch of the user without direct contact and can thus activate or operate the control element accordingly. This can be achieved, for example, by detecting the change in electrical capacitance between the sensor and the user.

[0028] The sensor device is designed so that it is only activated in the operating position. In the covered position, the control element and thus also the sensor device are protected, especially from weather and external influences. This enables the functionality of the control element in the covered position and also protects it from unauthorized operation or tampering by third parties. The integration of a sensor device for actuating the control element enables convenient and user-friendly operation of the vehicle door. By selecting suitable sensor technologies, operation can be performed contactlessly or with minimal force.

[0029] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the handle element can be adjusted into an emergency position for manually unlocking the lock. Thus, when the handle element is extended linearly into the operating position, further pulling or twisting will bring it into the emergency position to also unlock or lock the lock without the need for the operating element. This embodiment allows the user to manually unlock the lock if electronic or automatic operation is not possible or malfunctions. The emergency position offers an additional safety function and enables the vehicle door to be handled in emergency situations. After manual unlocking or locking, the handle element can be moved back to the regular operating position or the covering position to restore normal operation.

[0030] Finally, in a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the handle element is designed to be coupled to a central locking system of the motor vehicle. In particular, both the handle element and the operating element can be electronically coupled to an electronic computing device and thus connected for signal exchange, which in turn is or can be coupled to the central locking system. This enables the opening and thus unlocking of a vehicle door to also unlock or lock the entire vehicle. By coupling the handle element and the operating element to the electronic computing device, a communication interface is established between these components and the central locking system. This enables coordinated control of the locking and unlocking of the vehicle doors.The control element can transmit a corresponding signal to the electronic computing device, which in turn transmits information to the central locking system to execute the desired action. This can include unlocking or locking the vehicle door, as well as simultaneously unlocking or locking the entire vehicle.

[0031] This coupling enables integrated and synchronized locking and unlocking of the vehicle doors, increasing convenience and security. The user can open the door by operating the handle and simultaneously unlock the entire vehicle. If necessary, other functions of the central locking system, such as activating or deactivating the alarm system, can also be coupled.

[0032] Furthermore, an electronic computing device can be provided that is or can be electronically coupled to all components required for electrically unlocking or locking the vehicle door lock. This electronic computing device enables the control and synchronization of all relevant components, including controllers, motor drives, and other required components. The electronic computing device thus functions as a central control system and forms the interface between the handle element, the operating element, and the other components required for locking and unlocking the lock. It receives signals from the various input components, processes them, and transmits the corresponding control commands to the connected components.The electronic processing unit thus controls and synchronizes all functions of the motor drives that enable locking and unlocking of the lock. It can also integrate other components such as sensors, actuators, and control units to provide a comprehensive and reliable system.

[0033] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for electrically locking and / or unlocking a lock of a vehicle door for a motor vehicle by means of a handle element arranged on the outside of the door and having an operating element integrated into the handle element. For electrically locking and / or unlocking the door, the handle element is at least partially automatically adjusted from an outer skin region of the vehicle door relative to the outer skin region between a covering position, in which the handle element cannot be grasped, and an operating position, in which the handle element and the operating element can be grasped and / or operated.

[0034] Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures, can be used not only in the respective specified combination, but also in other combinations or on their own.

[0035] The invention will now be explained in more detail using a preferred embodiment and with reference to the drawings. They show:

[0036] Fig. 1 In a comparison of two perspective views, an embodiment of a vehicle door with a handle element in a covering position and in an operating position; and Fig. 2 in a further comparison of two perspective views, a further

[0037] Design of the vehicle door with an additional handle element, also in a covering position and in an operating position.

[0038] In the figures, identical and functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0039] Fig. 1 shows, in a comparison of two perspective views, an embodiment of a vehicle door 10 with a handle element 14 in a covering position P1 and in an operating position P2.

[0040] Accordingly, the vehicle door 10 for a motor vehicle is shown with a handle element 14 arranged on the outside of the door and with at least one operating element 16 integrated into the handle element 14 for electrically locking and / or unlocking a lock of the vehicle door 10 in the two positions P1, P2.

[0041] Furthermore, the handle element 14 is arranged or positioned below the door sill 12 in the vertical direction x of the vehicle. This places it at an ergonomic handle height that is comfortable and easily accessible for the user. The handle element 14 is thus arranged in an area 18 directly below a door sill 12 of the vehicle door 10.

[0042] The handle element 14 is designed to be adjusted at least partially automatically from an outer skin region 22 of the vehicle door 10 relative to the outer skin region 22 between a cover position P1 shown in Fig. 1, in which it is not accessible, and an operating position P2 not shown in Fig. 1, in which it is graspable and operable. This is made possible by the arrangement and use of a non-visible control device, an actuator, and / or an electronic computing device. These components control and automate the adjustment of the handle element 14.

[0043] In the cover position P1 shown, the handle element 14 is thus not visible and retracted flush with the vehicle door 10. It is thus protected from external influences and contributes to the creation of a seamless outer skin area 22 on the vehicle surface. If necessary, the handle element 14 can be adjusted to the operating position P2 by activating the control device or other mechanisms. In this operating position P2 (not shown), it is accessible to the user and enables simple and convenient operation. In the cover position P1, the handle element 14 is thus retracted or folded flush into the outer skin area 22. This creates a seamless and aesthetically pleasing surface, as the handle element 14 is flush with the surrounding vehicle structure. To achieve even better integration, an outer cover 15 of the handle element 14 is made of the same material as the immediate outer skin area 22.This creates a harmonious appearance and minimizes any gaps 17 or joints between the handle element 14 and the outer skin area 22. The joint or gap 17 is very narrow and can even be nearly invisible. This design feature contributes to providing a clean and seamless vehicle surface, making the handle element 14 appear particularly unobtrusive and integrated.

[0044] The handle element 14 can thus be adjusted linearly to enable the gripping and / or provision of the operating element 16 in the operating position P2. For this purpose, a sensor device 24 is integrated, which is designed, for example, as a proximity sensor. This sensor device 24 detects the approach of a person or an ID transmitter and thus enables the semi-automatic adjustment of the handle element 14 between the covering position P1 and the operating position P2. This sensor function allows the handle element 14 to be automatically adjusted to the operating position P2, or vice versa, depending on the presence or authorization of a person, without the need for manual control.

[0045] Furthermore, the handle element 14 can have light elements 28, which are arranged, for example, along the contour. This enables a visual highlighting of the handle element 14 and provides information about the state of the vehicle door 10.

[0046] In Fig. 1, the further perspective view also shows the handle element 14 in the operating position P2, in which it has been extended linearly to the outer skin area 22, in particular perpendicular to a plane of the immediate outer skin area 22. In this operating position, the handle element 14 can thus be grasped and / or the operating element 16 can be operated by the user.

[0047] In particular, the handle element 14 also has an additional wing 21 to make the handle more ergonomic. For example, a linear pulling movement of the handle element 14 enables more comfortable handling and operation of the operating element 16 and the handle element 14 itself. The operating element 16 itself can have a further sensor device 26 designed to actuate the operating element 16. This can be a capacitive sensor that enables contactless operation. Alternatively, an electromechanical sensor can be used, which detects slight deformation or contact and activates the operating element 16 accordingly.

[0048] The integration of such an additional sensor device 26 enables simple and intuitive operation of the control element 16 without the need for direct physical interaction to operate the lock of the vehicle door 10.

[0049] Furthermore, the handle element 14 can also be adjusted to an emergency position P3 to enable manual unlocking and / or locking of the lock. In this emergency position P3, the handle element 14 can be positioned to allow the user to manually unlock or lock the lock of the vehicle door 10. This is particularly useful in situations where, for example, the electronic locking or unlocking system is not functioning or an alternative manual operation is required.

[0050] Additionally, the handle element 14 can be coupled to a central locking system of the motor vehicle. This enables synchronized control of the locking and unlocking of the vehicle door 10. The handle element 14 can communicate with the locking system via an arranged or connectable electronic computing device (not shown in Fig. 1) and trigger the desired actions, such as locking or unlocking.

[0051] Fig. 2 shows, in a further comparison of two perspective views, a further embodiment of the vehicle door 10 with a further handle element 14, also in a covering position P1 and in an operating position P2.

[0052] In the cover position P1, the handle element 14 is likely to be in a hidden or flat position in which it is not accessible to the user or blocks access to the underlying control unit 16.

[0053] The handle element 14 is rotatable relative to an axis A and by a distance r from the axis A for gripping and / or providing the operating element 16 into the operating position P2. In the operating position P2, the handle element 14 has thus been moved out of the covering position P1 and rotates relative to the axis A. In doing so, it moves or adjusts itself along a circumference or along a circular path Ar around the axis A. This makes the operating element 16 accessible to the user, and the handle element 14 is now graspable.

[0054] The handle element 14 is accordingly configured to rotate relative to the axis A, and this rotation moves the handle element 14 from the covering position P1 to the operating position P2 and back. During this rotation process, the handle element 14 thus remains at a predetermined distance r from the axis A, meaning that it maintains a constant distance during the adjustment around the axis A, thereby providing an ergonomic gripping space 20 for reaching in with the fingers.

[0055] All these features contribute to the design of a comfortable and user-friendly vehicle door 10 that is aesthetically pleasing and functional.

[0056] In summary, the invention describes an extendable handle element 14, referred to as a “winglet,” of a side door or vehicle door 10 for a motor vehicle.

[0057] List of reference symbols

[0058] 10 vehicle door

[0059] 12 Door parapet

[0060] 14 Handle element

[0061] 15 aperture

[0062] 16 Control element

[0063] 17 gap

[0064] 18 Area

[0065] 20 gripping space

[0066] 21 wings

[0067] 22 Outer skin area

[0068] 24 Sensor device

[0069] 26 additional sensor devices

[0070] 28 light element

[0071] P1 Cover position

[0072] P2 operating position

[0073] A axis r spacing

[0074] Ar circular orbit

Claims

Patent claims 1. Vehicle door (10) for a motor vehicle, with a handle element (14) arranged on the outside of the door and with at least one operating element (16) integrated into the handle element (14) for electrically locking and / or unlocking a lock of the vehicle door (10), characterized in that the handle element (14) is at least partially automatically adjustable from an outer skin region (22) of the vehicle door (10) relative to the outer skin region (22) between a covering position (P1), in which the handle element (14) cannot be grasped, and an operating position (P2), in which the handle element (14) and the operating element (16) can be grasped and / or operated.

2. Vehicle door (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the handle element (14) is arranged in an immediate area (18) below a door sill (12) of the vehicle door (10).

3. Vehicle door (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the handle element (14) for gripping and / or for providing the operating element (16) is linearly adjustable into the operating position (P2).

4. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle element (14) for gripping and / or for providing the operating element (16) into the operating position (P2) is rotatable relative to an axis (A) and by a spacing (r) from the axis (A).

5. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle element (14) has a sensor device (24) for at least partially automatic adjustment between the covering position (P1) and the operating position (P2).

6. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating element (16) has a further sensor device (26) for actuating the operating element (16).

7. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle element (14) and / or the operating element (16) have an ergonomic contour.

8. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle element (14) is adjustable into an emergency position (P3) for manual unlocking and / or locking of the lock.

9. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handle element (14) is designed to be coupled to a central locking system of the motor vehicle.

10. Method for electrically locking and / or unlocking a lock of a vehicle door (10) for a motor vehicle by means of a handle element (14) arranged on the outside of the door and having an operating element (16) integrated into the handle element (14), characterized in that for electrically locking and / or unlocking the lock, the handle element (14) is adjusted at least partially automatically from an outer skin region (22) of the vehicle door (10) relative to the outer skin region (22) between a covering position (P1), in which the handle element (14) cannot be grasped, and an operating position (P2), in which the handle element (14) and the operating element (16) can be grasped and / or operated.

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