Locking device for the hood of a motor vehicle

Abstract

A locking device (1) for a vehicle opening includes a latch (8) with a notch (9) adapted to receive a strike plate (2) attached to the opening. The latch (8) moves between a locked position, a partially locked position, and an open position. A first pawl (15) moves from a position where it locks the latch (8) in its locked position. This first pawl (15) is actuated successively by a first and a second command. A second pawl (17) moves from a position where it locks the latch (8) in its partially locked position. The second pawl (17) has a retracted state where it is outside the travel of the first pawl (15) corresponding to the first command, and an extended state where it is capable of being driven by the first pawl (15) for at least part of the travel of the first pawl (15) corresponding to the second command.The latch (8) moves the second ratchet (17) from its retracted state to its deployed state by moving from its locked position to its partially locked position. (Fig. 6).

Description

Title of the invention: Locking device for the hood of a motor vehicle

[0001] The present invention relates to a locking device for an opening of a motor vehicle, in particular a front hood.

[0002] It is known to provide at the front of a motor vehicle with an internal combustion engine a compartment housing this engine. This compartment is generally closed by an opening, which is commonly referred to as a hood.

[0003] Generally, a hood comprises an edge pivotally mounted on the bodywork, typically by means of hinges, and a free edge. This free edge is generally provided with at least one latch, arranged to cooperate with a locking device provided on the bodywork and which makes it possible to keep the hood in the closed position.

[0004] In order to meet the high safety requirements in the automotive field, the locking device is activated in two stages, in particular to prevent the hood from opening unexpectedly while the vehicle is moving and suddenly obstructing the driver's view.

[0005] In vehicles whose internal combustion engine is housed under the front hood, the user traditionally performs a first maneuver, which is carried out remotely from the hood and by actuating a lever accessible from the passenger compartment of the vehicle. This first maneuver has the effect of actuating a hood ejection mechanism in a half-open configuration.

[0006] Then, in order to completely release the hood opening, the user performs a second maneuver, which requires him to get out of the vehicle to operate a lever located under the hood. The arrangement of this lever can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the user often has to search for it "blindly", by sweeping his hand.

[0007] In recent years, the fight against air pollution has led car manufacturers to develop vehicles with an electric motor as the sole means of drive. In these electric vehicles, a battery is mounted in the floor of the vehicle body, which frees up the space traditionally occupied by the internal combustion engine.

[0008] The space thus freed up at the front of the electric vehicle is used to form a trunk, for example intended to hold luggage. As this trunk is located at the front of the vehicle, it is commonly referred to by the Anglo-Saxon expression "front truck" (front trunk) in French, or by its contraction "frunk".

[0009] It is therefore understood that this new use of the space in front of the motor vehicle considerably modifies the use and frequency of opening the front hood. Therefore, the traditional opening maneuver, which requires the user to leave the passenger compartment, appears to be poorly ergonomic. It is also perceived as inconvenient, even uncomfortable. It can sometimes also convey a perception of poor vehicle quality.

[0010] An aim of the present invention is to propose a locking device which makes it possible to increase the comfort of use of a trunk provided with a front hood of a motor vehicle and to adapt its operation for frequent and regular use while respecting the safety constraints inherent in the automotive field.

[0011] The patent application is already known from the state of the art DE 10 2010 062 700 Al relating to a lock for a motor vehicle engine hood comprising a hook which retains a latch of the engine hood and a locking pawl which locks the hook in the closed position. The pawl is actuated by traction to sequentially adopt with the latch a closing configuration of engagement of the latch by the hook, a pre-closing configuration of partial disengagement of the latch and a latch release configuration allowing the hood to be lifted.

[0012] To this end, the hook has a peripheral edge having two notches and the pawl cooperates with each of the notches of the hook in the closing and intermediate pre-closing configurations. In order to prevent the hook from pivoting until the latch is released when changing from the closing configuration to the intermediate configuration, the pawl comprises a blocking relief which cooperates with a stop provided on the peripheral edge of the hook.

[0013] The disadvantage of such a solution is that it requires almost clockwork precision of the latching mechanism formed by the pawl and the hook, which is also subject to mechanical vibration and wear stresses which can ultimately disrupt the lock arrangement. In this case, the pawl becomes ineffective in preventing the lock from being unlocked following a single control command and no longer with two successive control commands, which presents a significant risk to automobile safety.

[0014] The Applicant sought to improve the situation.

[0015] A locking device is proposed for a motor vehicle opening, in particular a front hood. The proposed device comprises a latch having a notch capable of receiving a striker secured to the opening. The latch is movable between a first position for locking the striker, a second position for partially locking the striker and a third position corresponding to an open position, in which the striker is free to leave the notch. The device further comprises a first arrangement forming a pawl, movable from at least one position in which this first arrangement blocks the latch in its first position. The first arrangement is capable of being actuated following a first control action and a second control action. The device comprises a second ratchet arrangement, movable from at least one position in which this second arrangement locks the latch in its second position. The second arrangement has a retracted state, in which the second arrangement is located away from a stroke of the first arrangement corresponding to the first control action, and an extended state, in which at least part of the second arrangement is capable of being driven by the first arrangement, over at least part of a stroke of the first arrangement corresponding to the second control action. The second arrangement and the latch are mutually arranged such that the latch moves the second arrangement from its retracted state to its extended state when the latch moves from its first position to its second position.

[0016] Thanks to the invention, the device allows, while limiting the number of mechanism parts, to increase reliability with two ratchet arrangements. Doubling the ratchet function makes it possible to prevent the device from becoming completely inoperative following the failure of one of the two ratchet arrangements.

[0017] Optional, complementary or alternative features of the invention are set out below: - The second arrangement comprises a second pawl and a second lever movable relative to each other, while the second lever and the latch are mutually arranged such that the latch moves the second lever relative to the second pawl to move the second arrangement from its retracted state to its deployed state when the latch moves from its first position to its second. The movement of the latch allows the second arrangement to be deployed or retracted. Depending on its deployed or retracted state, the second arrangement cooperates or not with the first arrangement.

[0018] - The second arrangement further comprises a coupling capable of making the second pawl integral in movement with the second lever, this coupling being active when the second arrangement is in the deployed state. When the second lever and the second pawl are integral with each other in movement, the first arrangement is capable of driving the second pawl, for example in rotation, when the first arrangement acts on the second lever.

[0019] - The coupling comprises a first stop surface integral with the second lever and a second stop surface integral with the second pawl. The first stop surface cooperates with the second stop surface when the second arrangement passes from the retracted state to the deployed state. The activation of these stop surfaces marks the end of the deployment of the second arrangement, in particular when this involves a separation of the second lever and the second pawl from each other.

[0020] - At least one of the first abutment surface and the second abutment surface is carried by a cylindrical member. Linear contact of the abutment surfaces is achieved.

[0021] - The second lever comprises at least one portion shaped as a cam follower and the latch has a portion shaped as a cam adapted to cooperate with the cam follower when the latch moves from its first to its second position and / or from its second position to the first. The latch can drive the second lever so as to deploy the second lever.

[0022] - The latch comprises at least one portion shaped to retain the second pawl, this portion being active when the latch moves from its second to its first position. The latch thus acts on the second lever to deploy or retract the second arrangement.

[0023] - The second arrangement further comprises at least one elastic member, this member elastic being arranged to bias the second lever and / or the second pawl into a mutual position which corresponds to the deployed state of the second arrangement. In the absence of other constraints, the second arrangement tends to adopt its retracted position. This activates the cam mechanism which links the latch to the second lever by forcing the second lever against the latch.

[0024] - The second arrangement and the latch are mutually arranged so that the latch causes the second arrangement to transition from its extended state to its retracted state when the latch moves from its second position to its first position. The latch thus retracts the second arrangement when the hood is closed.

[0025] - The first arrangement further comprises an ejection arm capable of driving the latch from its first to its second position and / or from its second to its third position. This ejection arm is active over at least part of the travel of the first arrangement corresponding to the first control action and / or over at least part of the travel of the first arrangement corresponding to the second control action. It is possible to dispense with an elastic return member to drive the latch. The unlocking of the device is accompanied by a progressive opening of the hood.

[0026] - The first arrangement and the latch interact essentially at a foreground. The second arrangement and the latch interact essentially at the level of a second plane. The first plane and the second plane are substantially parallel to each other. The functional parts can be at least partially superimposed, or even distributed in the planes according to their function. The device thus gains in compactness.

[0027] - The first arrangement comprises a first pawl movable from at least a position in which this first pawl locks the latch in its first position and a first actuating lever capable of being moved following the first control action and the second control action. A at least part of the second arrangement is capable of being driven by the actuating lever, over at least part of the travel of the actuating lever.

[0028] - The first lever is capable of being actuated consecutively to the first control action and the second control action. On a stroke corresponding to the second control action, the first lever travels a path that corresponds at least in part to a path traveled by the first lever on a stroke corresponding to the first control action. The first lever follows the same path in its first actuation and its second actuation. This greatly simplifies the configuration of the locking device and facilitates its actuation.

[0029] - The second arrangement is arranged to limit the ejection stroke of the striker by the latch to a reduced stroke during the first control action and to extend the stroke to an extended stroke during the second control action.

[0030] - A ratio between the reduced stroke and the extended stroke is between 0.1 and 0.2, and preferably around 0.15.

[0031] - The stroke of the first arrangement, corresponding to the second control action, is greater than the stroke of the first arrangement corresponding to the first control action.

[0032] - The second arrangement is arranged to lock the latch in third position.

[0033] - The latch comprises at least one portion arranged to retain the second arrangement in the retracted state. This portion cooperates with the second arrangement when the latch is in its first position. This allows the latch to retract the second arrangement when the device is closed.

[0034] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on examining the detailed description below, and the appended drawings in which: - [Fig.l] represents an exemplary embodiment of a locking device according to the invention, seen exploded; - [Fig.2] represents the device of [Fig.l] in a closed state, in front view; - [Fig.3] is analogous to [Fig.2], the device being in a first state transient of a pre-opening sequence; - [Fig.4] is analogous to [Fig.3], the device being in a second state transient of the pre-opening sequence; - [Fig.5] is analogous to [Fig.2], the device being in a partially open state; - [Fig.6] is analogous to [Fig.2], the device being in a first transient state of an opening sequence; - [Fig.7] is analogous to [Fig.6], the device being in a second state transient of the opening sequence; - [Fig.8] is analogous to [Fig.6], the device being in a third state transient of the opening sequence; - [Fig.9] is analogous to [Fig.2], the device being in the open state; - [Fig. 10] is analogous to [Fig.2], the device being in a first transient state of a closing sequence; - [Fig.l 1] is analogous to [Fig.10], the device being in a second transient state of the closing sequence; - [Fig. 12] is analogous to [Fig.2].

[0035] The attached drawings contain elements of a certain character. They may not only serve to complete the invention, but also contribute to its definition, where appropriate.

[0036] Figures 1 to 12 show an exemplary embodiment of a locking device 1 according to the invention. The device 1 is intended for an opening of a motor vehicle, in particular a front hood.

[0037] The device 1 is configured to cooperate with a strike plate 2 (shown in broken lines in [Fig. 2]) fixed to the inside of the opening (not shown). For this purpose, the device 1 comprises a latching mechanism capable of cooperating with the strike plate 2.

[0038] The latch 2 is for example in the form of a hook closed in the manner of a ring. The hook is for example rectangular or square in shape.

[0039] Preferably, the locking device 1 comprises a support 3 for the latching mechanism. Here, this support 3 comprises a plate 31, intended to be fixed to the chassis of the vehicle or a fixed part of the bodywork thereof, typically near the hood. Optionally, the support 3 further comprises a cover 32. In this case, the latching mechanism is mounted, at least essentially, between the plate 31 and the cover 32.

[0040] Here, the plate 31 has a general plate shape, with a main face 4 oriented towards the cover 32. This plate 31 is for example made of sheet metal, preferably from a metal sheet, by cutting and / or folding this sheet.

[0041] The device 1 comprises a rotary latch 8 having a notch 9 capable of cooperating with the striker 2. The notch 9 gives the latch 8 a general hook shape, which allows the latch 8 to engage the striker 2. Preferably, the latch 8 is rotatably mounted on the support 3, around a first axis 83, for example by means of a first shaft 14. Here, the first shaft 14 is rotatably mounted on the support 3, by means of bearings 312 and 322 provided respectively in the plate 31 and the cover 32. The latch 8 may have a generally flat appearance. In particular, the latch 8 may be mounted on the support 3 parallel to the main face 4 of the plate 31

[0042] Conventionally, the support 3 has an elongated opening 6 capable of receiving the striker 2 and guide it towards the latch 8. Here, this opening 6 is formed in the plate 31 of the support 3. The elongated opening 6 has, for example, a characteristic fish mouth shape, open towards the outside of the support 3. Preferably, the opening 6 extends in a generally rectilinear manner, here from an edge of the plate 31, for example the upper edge in Figures 1 and 2. When the hood or the opening is closed, the striker 2 is housed in the opening 6.

[0043] Conventionally, the latch 8 is movable relative to the support 3, in a release direction, from a so-called closed, or locked, position to a so-called open position, passing through a so-called partially open, or partially closed position. In Figures 2 to 12, the release direction of the latch 8 corresponds to the clockwise direction.

[0044] In the closed position and in the partially open position, the notch 9 of the latch 8 prevents the striker 2 from leaving the opening 6. Typically, when the latch 8 is in the closed position, the hood of the vehicle is completely closed and locked. When the latch 8 is in the partially open position, the hood is half-open and locked. The hood cannot be completely opened because the striker 2 remains retained in the opening 6 of the support 3 by the notch 9. In the open position, the notch 9 of the latch 8 is disengaged from the striker 2. The striker 2 can leave the opening 6. The hood can be completely opened.

[0045] Here, the notch 9 has a first surface which forms its outer edge 92, that is to say the edge of the notch 9 furthest from the axis of rotation 83 of the latch 8 and a second surface, opposite the outer edge 92, which forms the inner edge 93. The outer edge 92 has a distal portion 921, close to the bottom of the notch 9, arranged so as to retain the striker 2 when the latch 8 is in the closed position and a proximal portion 922, adjacent to the distal portion 921, arranged to retain the striker 2 when the latch 8 is in the partially open position.

[0046] Preferably, the device 1 further comprises an ejection mechanism, or ejector, capable of moving the latch 2 towards the outside of the opening 6 of the support 3 when the latch 8 moves from its closed position to its partially open position. This movement corresponds to a first stroke of the latch 2. Here, this ejector is further active when the latch 8 moves from its partially open position to its open position. This results in a movement of the latch 2 which corresponds to a second stroke. Preferably, the ejector is configured so that the first stroke is substantially less than the second. In particular, the first stroke may be close to 3 millimeters, while the second is close to 18 millimeters.

[0047] Preferably, the ejector comprises, among other things, a cam surface, for example carried by at least part of the inner edge 93 of the notch 9, capable of cooperating with the striker 2 when the latch 8 moves from its closed position to its closed position. partially open and / or from its partially open position to its open position.

[0048] The device 1 further comprises a first pawl 153, movable from at least one position, or rest position, visible in [Fig. 2], in which the first pawl 153 blocks the latch 8 in its closed position. In Figures 2 to 12, this movement is in the clockwise direction. The movement of the first pawl 153 is preferably constrained in the direction of the latch 8, towards the rest position of the first pawl 153, for example by means of one or more elastic return members, such as the spring 1561 of [Fig. 1] for example.

[0049] Preferably, the first pawl 153 is rotatably mounted on the support 3 about a second axis 151, here by means of a second shaft 155. Here, the axis of rotation 151 of the first pawl 153 extends parallel to the axis of rotation 83 of the latch 8. The second shaft 155 is for example rotatably mounted on the support 3, here by means of bearings 311 and 321 provided respectively in the plate 31 and the cover 32. In particular, the first pawl 153 here has a bore 161 which allows the first pawl 153 to be mounted on the second shaft 155. Preferably, the first pawl has a generally flat appearance. Here, the first pawl 153 is in the form of a generally flat part. The first pawl 153 is mounted on the plate 31 parallel to the main surface 4 of the plate 31.

[0050] Preferably, the first pawl 153 has a first locking surface 163, arranged so as to engage with a homologous surface 812 of the latch 8. In particular, this first locking surface 163 is active when the first pawl 153 is in the rest position and the latch 8 in the closed position.

[0051] For example here, the first pawl 153 comprises a portion shaped as a locking arm 162, a free end of which carries the first locking surface 163. In particular, the first locking surface 163 is arranged perpendicular to a main plane of the latch 8. The locking arm 162 extends for example from the bore 161 of the first pawl 153.

[0052] For example, here, the first locking surface 812 of the latch 8 extends generally radially relative to the axis of rotation 83 of the latch 8. In particular, the latch 8 here has a notch-shaped portion 88, a free face of which carries the locking surface 812.

[0053] Here, the first locking surface 163 of the first pawl 153 and its counterpart surface 812 of the latch 8 are curved and have neighboring curvatures. Preferably, the center of curvature substantially coincides with the axis of rotation 151 of the first pawl 153.

[0054] The device further comprises a second pawl 173 movable from at least a first position, or rest position, visible in [Fig. 2], in which the second pawl 173 blocks the latch 8 in its partially open position. In Figures 2 at 12 for example, this movement is done in the counter-clockwise direction. The movement of the second pawl 173 is preferably constrained in the direction of the latch 8, towards the rest position of the second pawl 173, for example by means of one or more elastic return members such as the spring 176 of [Fig.l] for example.

[0055] The second pawl 173 is preferably mounted for rotation on the support 3, around a third axis 171, here by means of a third shaft 175. Here, the axis of rotation 171 of the second pawl 173 extends parallel to the axis of rotation 83 of the latch 8. The third shaft 171 is for example mounted for rotation on the support 3 by means of bearings 313 and 323 arranged respectively in the plate 31 and the cover 32. The second pawl 173 here has a bore 182 which allows the mounting of the second pawl 173 on the third shaft 171. Preferably, the second pawl 173 has a generally flat appearance. The second pawl 173 can be mounted on the support 3 parallel to the main face 4 of the plate 31. In particular, the second pawl 173 can be made from a single piece

[0056] The second pawl 173 has a locking surface 189, arranged so as to engage with a homologous surface 12 of the latch 8. This locking surface 179 of the second pawl 173 is active when the second pawl 173 is in the rest position and the latch 8 in the partially open position. In particular, the locking surface 179 extends perpendicular to a main plane of the second pawl 173.

[0057] For example, the latch 8 has a locking portion arranged here in the form of a tooth 821, while the second pawl 173 has a notch 170 in shape correspondence with the tooth 821. For example, an upper edge of the notch 170 carries the locking surface 189, while a front face of the tooth 821 carries the locking surface 12 of the latch 8.

[0058] In particular, the locking surface 179 of the second pawl 173 is shaped so as to act as a stop for the tooth 821 and its locking surface 12 when the latch 8 moves from its closed position to its partially open position. In this exemplary embodiment, the notch 170 is arranged so as to house the tooth 821, at least in part, when the latch 8 is in the partially open position.

[0059] In the illustrated example, this tooth 821 comprises three faces perpendicular to a general plane of the latch 8. A first face 11 terminates the tooth 821 in the radial direction. This first face 11 is for example curved and has a center of curvature located on the axis of rotation 83 of the latch 8. The first face 11 here extends coaxially to a first outer edge 813 of the latch 8.

[0060] Here, the locking surface 12 of the tooth 821 connects to the lower edge 93 of the notch 9. This locking surface 12 is here shaped into an ejection surface of the striker 2, active when the latch 8 reaches its open position. Here, the locking surface 12 extends for example in an inclined manner relative to a direction radial of the latch 8. In particular, the locking surface 12 connects to the end of the inner edge 93 of the notch 9 and to the first face 11 of the tooth 821. The tooth 821 here has a third face 13 which extends between the first outer edge 813 of the latch 8 and the first face 11 of the tooth 821. For example, this third face 13 generally extends radially relative to the latch 8.

[0061] Here, the second pawl 173 comprises a portion shaped as an arm, or locking arm 181, which extends for example from the bore 182 of the second pawl 173. The notch 170 is formed in this locking arm 181.

[0062] Here, the second pawl 173 also comprises a stepped portion in the form of a notch 190 in the vicinity of its upper end. The notch 190 is capable of interacting with the tooth 821 of the latch 8, in particular via the third face 13 of this tooth 821.

[0063] The movement of the latch 8 in the release direction may be effected by one or more elastically deformable members arranged so as to return the latch 8 to its open position. In other words, the device 1 may comprise one or more elastic return members arranged so as to cause the latch 8 to rotate in the release direction, here clockwise. For example, the device 1 here comprises, for this purpose, a branch spring 10, interposed between the latch 8 and the support 3.

[0064] In this case, in its closed position, the latch 8 is held against the return force by the first pawl 153 which is in the rest position ([Fig.2]). When the first pawl 153 leaves this rest position, the return force drives the latch 8 towards its partially open position, where the latch 8 is held by the second pawl 173, as long as this second pawl 173 is in the rest position ([Fig.5]). When the second pawl 173 leaves its rest position, the latch 8 moves under the return force to its open position ([Fig.8]).

[0065] As a replacement for the elastic return members, or in addition to them, the device 1 may comprise a drive mechanism capable of moving the latch 8 over at least part of its release travel, or at least of contributing to such a movement. Here, for example, this drive mechanism comprises at least one cam 168 arranged so as to link the movement of the first pawl 153 and the rotation of the latch 8, over at least part of the release travel of the latch 8. The drive mechanism here comprises a portion of the latch 8 arranged as a cam follower 87. Here, the first pawl 153 has a second arm, or ejection arm 164, capable of coming into contact with the latch 8 when the first pawl 153 is released from its rest position and the latch 8 leaves its closed position. Preferably, the ejector arm 164 extends from the first bore 161, opposite the locking arm 162.The ejector arm 164 includes an end surface generally perpendicular to a principal plane of the first pawl 153. This end face may be . shaped into a cam surface 68. The cam surface 68 is here carried by the end of the ejection arm 164.

[0066] Here, the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8 has the general appearance of a notch. The notch here projects from the main face of the latch 8.

[0067] In a non-limiting manner, the cam follower portion 87 is produced in the form of a projecting portion having a generally triangular profile. Preferably, one face of this projecting portion is flush with an exterior 813 of the latch 8. For example, this face is flush with the exterior edge 813, on the central part of the latter, over an extent approximately equal to half the length of the first exterior edge 813. For example, another face of this projecting portion generally extends radially relative to the axis of rotation 83 of the latch 8. These two faces preferably connect at a rounded edge.

[0068] The ejection arm 164 may be configured to exert a progressive stress on the latch 8, causing the latter to pivot in the ejection direction, against the torque resulting from the weight of the hood.

[0069] The transition from the closed position of the latch 8 to the partially open position preferably results from a control action causing the first pawl 153 to move out of its rest position, while the transition from the partially open position to the open position results from a subsequent control action.

[0070] To do this, according to the invention, the device 1 further comprises an actuating lever 154, movable relative to the support 3 from a rest position, visible in [Fig. 2] in particular, in response to a stress resulting from a control action. The actuating lever 154 is shaped so as to drive the first pawl 153 out of its rest position over at least part of the travel of the actuating lever 154 resulting from the control action.

[0071] This control action may take, for example, the form of traction exerted on the actuating lever 154, here by means of a section of cable 300, one end of which is attached to the actuating lever 154. For example, the actuating lever 154 has for this purpose a notch 167 adapted to receive the end of the cable 300. The control action in question is preferably carried out from an electromechanical actuator (not shown).

[0072] Preferably, the movement of the actuating lever 154 over its actuating stroke is carried out under the constraint of one or more elastic return members, for example in the form of springs such as the spring 1562 of [Fig. 1] for example. These elastic members are arranged so as to return the actuating lever 154 to its rest position at the end of its actuating stroke, when the control action ceases, for example when the cable 300 is released. The actuating lever 154 returns to its rest position via a path which corresponds to the path of the stroke actuating lever. This results in a reciprocating stroke of the actuating lever 154 in response to a control action.

[0073] Preferably, the actuating lever 154 is rotatably mounted on the support 3. Here, the actuating lever 153 is rotatably mounted about the axis of rotation 151 of the first pawl 153, in particular via the second shaft 155. For this purpose, the actuating lever 154 has a bore 165 which allows the actuating lever 154 to be mounted on the second shaft 155. For example, the actuating lever 154 here has a generally flat appearance.

[0074] Preferably, the actuating lever 154 is equipped with at least one coupling member, capable of cooperating with the first pawl 153, over at least part of the travel of the actuating lever 154. This coupling member preferably comprises a cylindrical element, in the form of a pin or finger 166 for example. Preferably, the finger 166 projects from a main face of the lever. The finger 166 cooperates here with the ejection arm 164 of the first pawl 153.

[0075] As illustrated, the actuating lever 154 may comprise a main face. For example, the lever 154 is mounted on the support 3 in such a way that this main face is parallel to the main face 4 of the plate 31.

[0076] Preferably, the pawl 153 and the actuating lever 154 are pivotally mounted around a common pivot axis, here via the second shaft 155.

[0077] According to the invention, the device 1 also comprises an additional lever 174 forming with the second ratchet 173 a ratchet assembly 17.

[0078] The additional lever 174 is mounted on the support 3 in a movable manner from a rest position, in which the additional lever 174 is located away from the travel of the actuating lever 154, to at least one active position in which the additional lever 174 is across the travel of the actuating lever 154.

[0079] When the additional lever 174 is located away from the stroke of the actuating lever 154, the additional lever 174 and the first lever 154 are free from mutual interference. When the additional lever 174 is located on the stroke of the first lever 154, the additional lever 174 and the actuating lever 154 interfere with each other, as is the case over at least a portion of the stroke of the actuating lever 154.

[0080] The additional lever 174 is free to move relative to the second pawl 173 from its rest position to its active position. The pawl assembly 17 further comprises a coupling mechanism for the additional lever 174 and the pawl 173, active when the additional lever 174 is in the active position. This coupling mechanism makes the additional lever 174 and the second pawl 173 integral in movement.

[0081] The ratchet assembly 17 is arranged relative to the latch 8 such that the second ratchet 173 is in its rest position when the additional lever 174 is in the rest position. The ratchet assembly 17 has a retracted state in which the ratchet arrangement 17 is out of the way of the actuating lever 154 and an extended state in which at least a portion of the ratchet arrangement 17 is capable of being driven by the first lever 154.

[0082] Preferably, the additional lever 174 is rotatably mounted on the support 3, around the axis of rotation 171 of the second pawl 173, in particular by means of the third shaft 175. Preferably, the additional lever 174 and the second pawl 173 are pivotally mounted around a common axis, here by means of the third shaft 175. The pawl assembly 17 is then rotatably mounted on the support 3 by means of the third shaft 175. In particular, the additional lever 174 has a bore 184 which allows this mounting on the third shaft 175.

[0083] The additional lever 174 has a portion shaped like an arm 186. This arm 186 has a generally pointed end portion. In particular, the arm 186 of the additional lever 174 comprises an upper edge 187 and a lower edge 188 opposite the upper edge 187.

[0084] The coupling mechanism preferably comprises a pair of surfaces attached respectively to the second pawl 173 and to the additional lever 174 and which abut against each other when the additional lever 174 reaches its operative position relative to the second pawl 173. Preferably, one abutment surface is carried by a generally cylindrical part, a finger 185 attached to the additional lever 174 while the other abutment surface 178 is carried by the second pawl 173.

[0085] According to one aspect of the invention, the additional lever 174 and the latch 8 are mutually arranged so that the latch 8 moves the additional lever 174 from its rest position to its active position when this latch 8 passes from its closed position to its partially open position.

[0086] A drive mechanism is thus provided between the latch 8 and the additional lever 174, this mechanism being active over at least part of the travel which takes the latch 8 from its closed position to its partially open position. Preferably, this drive mechanism is of the cam type. For example, the additional lever 174 here comprises a surface at least partly shaped into a cam follower while the latch 8 carries a surface at least partly shaped into a cam. Preferably, contact between the cam and the cam follower is ensured by the return to the rest position of the additional lever 174.

[0087] Here, for example, the cam follower is produced by at least part of the upper edge 189 of the additional lever 174.

[0088] The latch 8 here has a second cam portion produced in the form of a second notch 85. The second notch 85 here has an outer edge 813 and an oblique edge 814 mutually arranged so as to give the second notch 85 a shape corner. The outer edge 813 and the oblique edge 814 connect to each other in a rounded edge, which partly carries at least one cam follower surface.

[0089] According to the invention, when it is in the active position, the additional lever 174 interferes with the control lever 154 over a part of the latter's travel. Over this part of the travel, the actuating lever 154 drives the ratchet assembly 17 to rotate with the effect of causing the second ratchet 173 to leave its rest position.

[0090] Preferably, this drive involves a cam arrangement, active over a part of the actuation travel of the control lever 154. This arrangement may comprise a cam, here carried by the control lever 154 and a cam follower carried by the additional lever 174. In the particular case shown here, the cam follower is carried by the lower edge 188 of the additional lever 174. The cam is carried here by a cam portion 86 of the actuation lever 154 generally shaped like a wedge.

[0091] The latching mechanism is organized here in two stages, the parts of this mechanism being distributed over these two stages. In the first stage, there is at least a part of the latch 8, in particular its tooth 82, the second notch 85 and the first notch 88. Preferably, in this first plane are the elements cooperating with the parts of the latch 8 arranged in this first stage, or at least a part of these elements. In particular, the additional lever 174, the second latch 173, the locking arm 162 of the first pawl 153 and the actuating lever 154 are arranged in this first stage. In the second stage, there is at least a part of the latch 8, in particular the cam follower portion 87, the second notch 85, the ejection arm 1 of the first pawl 153.

[0092] In the embodiment described here, the latch 8 is produced by assembling two separate parts mounted integrally on each other, namely a first part 81 and a second part 82. Once assembled, the first part 81 and the second part 82 behave kinematically as a single part. Preferably, the first part 81 and the second part 82 each have a generally flat appearance. Preferably, the first part 81 and the second part 82 each comprise at least some of the functional surfaces described above. This makes it possible to duplicate at least some of the functions of the latch 8, thus improving the functional safety thereof. Here, each of the first 81 and second part 82 has a notch similar to the notch 9 described above.

[0093] Reference is made to [Fig.2], which illustrates the device 1 in a locked state.

[0094] The latch 8 is in the closed position. The strike plate 2 is in the opening 6 of the support 3 and in the notch 9 of the latch 8. The latch 8 prevents the strike plate 2 from leaving the opening 6. The first latch 153 is in its rest position. The latch 8 is held in its closed position against a return force towards its position opened by the mutual support of the first locking surface 812 of the latch 8 and its counterpart surface 163 of the first pawl 153.

[0095] The second pawl 173 and the additional lever 174 are in their respective rest positions. The actuating lever 154 is in the rest position. The pawl arrangement 17 is in the retracted position. The additional lever 174 is held in this position against a force which tends to return it in the anti-clockwise direction, by the support of its upper edge 189 against the second notch 85 of the latch 8.

[0096] Reference is now made to Figures 3 to 5, which illustrate successive states of the device 1 corresponding to a first opening control action. This is typically a first step of opening the device 1, which results in particular from a first command of the actuator.

[0097] [Fig.3] illustrates a first state, which corresponds to the start of the control action.

[0098] Compared to the locked state of [Fig.2], the actuating lever 154 has been moved out of its rest position, here by pivoting clockwise around the axis 151, to an intermediate position of its actuation stroke. This pivoting results here from a traction exerted on the actuation lever 154, typically via the cable 300. This traction is preferably exerted by an electromechanical actuator, in response to a first opening command.

[0099] The actuating lever 154 has pivoted relative to the support 3 against a return force. On its travel from its rest position to its transitional position of [Fig. 3], the actuating lever 154 has caused the first pawl 153 to move out of its rest position, until it reaches a transitional position where the ejection arm 164 of the first pawl 153 is in contact with the latch 8. This contact involves the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8 and the cam 168 of the ejection arm 164. The movement of the first pawl 153 is here carried out according to a rotary movement, in particular in the clockwise direction. The coupling of the actuating lever 154 and the first pawl 153 is active. The drive in question involves the finger 166 of the actuating lever 154. This finger 66 remains in contact with the first pawl 153, in particular its ejection arm 164, over this part of the pivoting stroke of the actuating lever 154.

[0100] In the position of [Fig. 3], the locking surface 163 of the first pawl 153 is located away from the locking surface 812 of the latch 8. The latch 8 is shown in its closed position, as in [Fig. 2]. However, unlike this [Fig. 2], the latch 8 is free to pivot, in the clockwise direction, under the action of elastic return members such as the spring 10 of [Fig. 1] for example. The pawl assembly 7 has remained in its retracted state and in its rest position of [Fig. 2].

[0101] The tensile force exerted on the actuating lever 154 continues until that this actuating lever 154 reaches the end of its first stroke. [Fig.4] shows the state of the device 1 at this instant.

[0102] Compared to the state of the device 1 shown in [Fig. 3], the latch 8 has reached its partially open position. The latch 8 has pivoted until its first tooth 821 has engaged the notch 170 of the second pawl 173. The second pawl 173 has retained its position of FIGS. 2 and 3. The first face 11 of the latch 8 is located at a distance from the pawl 173. On the travel of the latch 8 from its closed position to its partially open position, the cam 168 of the ejector arm 164 of the first pawl 153 has remained in contact with the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8. The latch 8 is blocked by the second pawl 173, which prevents the latch 8 from pivoting in the clockwise direction.

[0103] When the actuating lever 154 has reached the end of its first stroke, the traction force ceases. Typically, the cable 300 is released by the electromechanical actuator. [Fig. 5] shows the corresponding state of the device 1.

[0104] Compared to the state of the device 1 shown in [Fig. 4], under a return effect, in particular of the spring 1562 of [Fig. 1], and in the absence of a tensile force exerted on it, the actuating lever 154 has returned to its rest position, as in [Fig. 2]. Under a return effect, in particular of the spring 1561 of [Fig. 1], and in the absence of driving contact with the actuating lever 154, the first pawl 153 has pivoted towards its rest position until reaching an intermediate position relative to the support 3 in which the first pawl 153 is resting on a peripheral edge of the latch 8. As a result of this return movement, the ejection arm 164 of the first pawl 153 has come out of its contact with the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8.

[0105] Under a return effect, in particular of the spring 176, the second pawl 173 has moved closer to the latch 8, until it reaches a position where the bottom of the notch 170 is in contact with the tooth 821 of the latch 8. The second pawl 173 engages the latch 8 in a mutual locking position. The finger 185 is in contact with the second pawl 173 under a return effect, in particular of the spring 177 of [Fig.l]. The upper edge 189 of the additional lever 174 is located away from the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8. The pawl arrangement 17 is in the extended state. The additional lever 174 is located in the path of the actuating lever 154.

[0106] Reference is now made to Figures 6 to 10, which illustrate successive states of the device 1, corresponding to a second opening control action, which follows the first action. This is typically a second step of opening the device 1, a step which results in particular from a second command of the actuator.

[0107] [Fig. 6] illustrates a first state, which corresponds to the start of the control action.

[0108] Compared to the state of the device 1 shown in [Fig. 5], the actuating lever 154 has pivoted from its rest position to an intermediate position of its second actuating stroke, in which the actuating lever 154 is in contact with the additional lever 174. The contact occurs via the cam portion 86 of the actuating lever 154 and the lower edge 188 of the additional lever 174. The actuating lever 154 has further pivoted relative to the first pawl 153 until the finger 166 is in contact with the first pawl 153.

[0109] The second pawl 173 has retained its position of [Fig.5]. The pawl assembly 17 has retained its deployed state of [Fig.5].

[0110] The tensile force exerted on the actuating lever 154 continues. [Fig.7] shows a corresponding transient state of the device 1.

[0111] Compared to the state of the device shown in [Fig.6], by continuing its pivoting stroke, the actuating lever 154 has driven the additional lever 174 in a rotational movement, here in the counterclockwise direction, thanks to the cooperation of the cam portion 86 of the actuating lever 154 and the lower edge 188 of the additional lever 174. As the ratchet assembly 17 is deployed, with the finger 185 of the additional lever 174 in contact with the radial stop of the second latch 173, the rotation of the additional lever 174 has caused the rotation of the second ratchet 173 out of its rest position against an elastic return force. The actuating lever 154 remains in contact with the additional lever 174.

[0112] Over this part of its travel, the actuating lever 154 has furthermore driven the first pawl 153 into rotation, so that the ejection arm 164 of the first pawl 153 is again in contact with the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8.

[0113] Compared to [Fig.6], the latch 8 has retained its position relative to the support 3. However, the latch 8 is now released from its engagement with the second pawl 173. The latch 8 is free to pivot relative to the support 3.

[0114] The tensile force exerted on the actuating lever 154 still continues. [Fig.8] shows the transient state of the device when the actuating lever 154 has reached a position corresponding to the end of its first stroke.

[0115] The latch 8 has pivoted clockwise, under the return effect of elastic members, such as the spring 10 of [Fig.l] for example, until it reaches its open position. The striker 2 has left the notch 9 and is free to leave the opening 6 of the support 3. In this position, the notch 9 communicates with the opening of the support 3, the striker 2 is free to move inside and outside the opening 6. The return members of the latch 8 are in the rest position.

[0116] In its pivoting stroke, the actuating lever 154 continued the rotational drive of the first pawl 153, by means of the finger 166. The ejection branch 164 of the first lever 153 remained in contact with the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8, thus engaging the cam 168 of the ejection arm 164. On this stroke, the actuating lever 154 further continued its rotational drive of the additional lever 174 and the second pawl 173. The additional lever 174 and the second pawl 173 being integral in rotation in the anti-clockwise direction with the additional lever 174, the pivoting of the actuating lever 154 caused the second pawl arrangement 17 to rotate. Compared to [Fig. 7], the second pawl 173 is located further away from the latch 8. In particular, the locking surface 12 of the latch 8 is located away from the upper edge 189 of the second pawl 173.Over this portion of the stroke, the cam 168 of the ejector arm 164 of the first pawl 153 remained in contact with the cam follower portion 87 under the driving effect of the actuating lever 154.

[0117] At the end of this second stroke, the actuating lever 154 is located away from the additional lever 174, in particular from its lower edge 188. The ratchet arrangement 17 being in its deployed state, and without contact with the actuating lever 154, the ratchet arrangement 17 is free to pivot relative to the support 3.

[0118] The traction force on the actuating lever 154 continues further, until the actuating lever 154 reaches the end of its second stroke, resulting from the second actuation. [Fig.9] shows the corresponding state of the device 1.

[0119] The stroke of the actuating lever 154 corresponding to the second actuation of this lever 154, or second first stroke, is greater than the stroke of the actuating lever 154 corresponding to the first actuation, or first stroke.

[0120] Compared to the state of [Fig. 8], the ratchet assembly 17 has moved in rotation in the clockwise direction until the second ratchet 173 comes into contact with the tooth 821 of the latch 8, in particular via the third face 13. The additional lever 174 has pivoted integrally with the second ratchet 173. The upper edge 189 of the additional lever 174 is now located under the cam portion 86 of the actuating lever 154. The latch 8 is held in its open position, on the one hand by the interaction of the notch 190 of the second ratchet 173 with the tooth 821 of the latch 8, on the other hand by the effect of the elastic return members.

[0121] When the actuating lever 154 has reached the end of its second stroke, the tractive force ceases. [Fig. 10] shows the corresponding state of the device 1.

[0122] Under a return effect, the lever 154 returned to its rest position. Under the effect of the elastic return members, the first pawl 173 returned to an intermediate position similar to the position of this first pawl 173 of [Fig. 5], namely in contact against a peripheral edge of the latch 8. The cam 168 of the ejection arm 164 of the first pawl 153 moved away from the follower portion of cam 87 of latch 8.

[0123] Reference is now made to Figures 10 to 12 to describe the closing of the device 1.

[0124] The closing of the device 1 is carried out in an action which consists of closing the hood of the vehicle, which is accompanied by a movement of the latch 2 along the opening 6 of the support 3 in the direction of the latch 8.

[0125] [Fig. 10] shows an initial state which corresponds to the start of closing of the device, when the latch 2 has just encountered the catch 8 in its movement along the opening 6 of the support 3. The device 1 is in its open state. The latch 2 is in contact with the locking surface 12 and the inner edge 93 of the notch 9. The latch 2 exerts a force against the locking surface 12 and the inner edge 93 of the notch 9. The pawl assembly 17 is in the deployed state.

[0126] [Fig. 11] shows a state of the device 1 which corresponds to the continuation of the closure. Under the effect of a force on the hood, the latch 2 has continued its path along the slot 6 towards the latch 8, causing the pivoting of this latch 8 against the elastic return members. Under this effect, the tooth 821 of the latch 8 crosses the notch 190 and reaches the notch 170, moving the ratchet assembly 17 away from its open position. In particular, the second ratchet 173 moves away from the latch 8 so that the tooth 821 can cross this obstacle. The ratchet assembly 17 returns to its position corresponding to the partially closed position of the latch 8. The ratchet assembly 17 is in the deployed state because the outer edge 813 of the additional lever 174 is moved away from the control lever 154. To do this, the inner edge 93 of the notch 9 is arranged so as to generate a rotation of the latch 8 in response to a vertical movement of the striker 2.

[0127] Reference is now made to [Fig. 12] which illustrates the state of the device 1 after closing.

[0128] Compared to the state of the device 1 shown in [Fig.l 1], under the effect of the force applied to the striker 2, the latch 8 has pivoted relative to the support 3, against elastic return members, here in the anti-clockwise direction. The force is sufficient to allow the tooth 821 to leave the notch 170. On its closing stroke, the latch 8 has come into contact with the additional lever 174 via the additional intermediary of its second notch 85. On this stroke, the latch 8 has driven the additional lever 174 in rotation against elastic return members to make it reach a position similar to the rest position of [Fig.2]. This movement of the additional lever 174 is done in the clockwise direction, while the second pawl 173 is prevented from accompanying the additional lever 174 in its pivoting because the second pawl 173 is in abutment against the tooth 821 of the latch 8.This movement of the additional lever 174 releases the finger 185 secured to the additional lever. mentary 174 of its support with the abutment surface 178 of the second pawl 173. The tooth 821 of the latch 8 and the cam follower portion 87 allow the latch 8 to retract the pawl assembly 17. The movement of the additional lever 174 is done without movement of the second pawl 173. The pawl assembly 17 returns to its retracted state, as in [Fig.2].

[0129] A locking device according to the invention has just been described in which the selective release of the latch 8 from its closed position and from its partially open position is achieved by movements out of their engagement position of the first pawl 153 and the pawl assembly 17 respectively. In these movements, the first pawl 153 and the pawl assembly 17 are driven by the same actuating lever 154, over a first and a second stroke of this actuating lever 154 respectively. These strokes correspond to a first actuation or a second actuation of the device 1. On its first stroke, the actuating lever 154 cannot drive the pawl assembly 17, the latter being in a retracted state in which the additional lever 174 is away from the path of the actuating lever 154.On its second stroke, the actuating lever 154 drives the ratchet assembly 17, the latter being in an extended state in which the additional lever 174 is located across the path of the actuating lever 154 and the second ratchet 173 and the additional lever 174 are rotationally integral. In practice, it is sufficient for the second ratchet 173 and the additional lever 174 to be rotationally integral over a portion of the stroke of the actuating lever 154.

[0130] In the embodiment shown in detail in [Fig.l], the latch 8 is rotated on its release stroke by an elastic return member in the form of the branch spring 10. In this embodiment, the ejection of the catch 2 from the notch 9 of the latch 8 results from the relaxation of this branch spring 10. This results in a rapid ejection of the catch 2, which may be perceived as abrupt.

[0131] When a slower or gentler ejection of the striker 2 is desired, it is possible to dispense with elastic return members for driving the latch 8 over its release stroke. In particular, over its drive stroke, the latch 8 may be driven by the ejection arm 164 attached to the first pawl 153 over at least part of the stroke of this ejection arm 164 resulting from the actuation of the actuation lever 154. The actuation lever 154 and the first pawl 153 are configured so as to drive the latch 8 over at least part of the first stroke of the actuation lever 154 and at least part of the second stroke thereof. Otherwise each time the cam mechanism involving the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8 and the cam 168 attached to the ejector arm 164 is active.

[0132] Figures 2 to 12 described above are likely to illustrate the operation of the device without elastic return members for driving the latch 8, with the following exception.

[0133] In the absence of a return effect on the latch 8, and in the absence of force applied to the strike plate 2 with a view to removing it from the elongated opening 6, it may be that the first and / or the second locking surface of the latch 8 are not in contact with their homologous surface of the first pawl 153 and of the second pawl 173 when the latch 8 is in the closed position or in the partially open position, unlike what is shown in figures 2, 4 and 5 in particular.

[0134] It is understood that the locking device described above can be implemented with or without an elastic return member dedicated to the latch 8, without functional or structural modification of this device. Two modes of actuation of this device have thus been made possible, an actuation of the electrical type and an actuation of the mechanical type. In an embodiment of the device intended for mechanical actuation, the user can actuate the cable 300 twice. This cable can be connected to a lever, for example equipped with an elastic return. In an embodiment of the device intended for electrical actuation, the user can actuate the device via an electromechanical actuator, arranged to perform a pulling / releasing movement on the cable each time.When the device 1 comprises a return member of the spring type 10, the ejection arm 164 is also functional in that it limits the travel of the actuating lever 154 by coming to bear against the cam follower portion 87.

[0135] A locking device equipped with an ejector for the striker 2 has been described. The ejector described acts when the latch 8 is moved from its closed position to its partially open position by means of the inner edge 93 of the notch 9. The ejector described acts when the latch 8 is moved from its partially open position to its open position by means of at least part of the locking surface 12 of the tooth 821. This ejector further comprises the means of the device 1 capable of driving the latch 8 in its release stroke. This ejector here comprises the return spring 10 of [Fig.l] or, failing that, the ejection arm 164 of the first pawl 153, in particular the cam 168, and the cam follower portion 87 of the latch 8.

[0136] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, by way of examples only. Other embodiments may be envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular: - The locking device can be installed on the trunk of an automatic vehicle. - Latch 8 can be made from a single piece. - At least some of the elastic return organs can take the form of tension or compression spring. The support 3 may be shaped, at least in part, as a portion of the chassis or body of the vehicle.

Claims

Claims

1. Locking device (1) for a motor vehicle opening, in particular a front hood, the device comprising: - a latch (8) having a notch (9) capable of receiving a striker (2) secured to the opening, the latch (8) being movable between a first position for locking the striker (2), a second position for partially locking the striker (2) and a third position corresponding to an open position, in which the striker (2) is free to leave the notch (9), - a first arrangement (15) forming a ratchet, movable from at least one position in which this first arrangement (15) blocks the latch (8) in its first position, the first arrangement (15) being capable of being actuated following a first control action and a second control action; - a second arrangement (17) forming a ratchet, movable from at least one position in which this second arrangement (17) blocks the latch (8) in its second position; characterized in that the second arrangement (17) has a retracted state, in which the second arrangement (17) is spaced apart from a stroke of the first arrangement (15) corresponding to the first control action, and an extended state, in which at least part of the second arrangement (17) is capable of being driven by the first arrangement (15), over at least part of a stroke of the first arrangement (15) corresponding to the second control action, while the second arrangement (17) and the latch (8) are mutually arranged in such a way that the latch (8) moves the second arrangement (17) from its retracted state to its extended state when the latch (8) moves from its first position to its second position.

2. A device according to claim 1, wherein the second arrangement (17) comprises a second pawl (173) and a second lever (174) movable relative to each other, while the second lever (174) and the latch (8) are mutually arranged so that the latch (8) moves the second lever (174) relative to the second pawl (173) to moving the second arrangement (17) from its retracted state to its deployed state when the latch (8) moves from its first position to its second.

3. Device according to one of claims 1 and 2, in which the second arrangement (17) further comprises a coupling (185; 178) capable of making the second pawl (173) integral in movement with the second lever (174), this coupling being active when the second arrangement (17) is in the deployed state.

4. Device according to claim 3, in which the coupling (185; 178) comprises a first stop surface (185) integral with the second lever (174) and a second stop surface (178) integral with the second pawl (173), and the first stop surface (185) cooperates with the second stop surface (178), when the second arrangement (17) passes from the retracted state to the deployed state.

5. A device according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the first abutment surface (185) and the second abutment surface (178) is carried by a cylindrical member.

6. Device according to one of claims 2 to 5, in which the second lever (17) comprises at least one portion shaped as a cam follower (189) and the latch (8) has a portion shaped as a cam (85) capable of cooperating with the cam follower (189) when the latch (8) passes from its first to its second position and / or from its second position to the first.

7. Device according to one of claims 2 to 6, in which the latch (8) comprises at least one portion (11) shaped to retain the second pawl (173), this portion being active when the latch (8) moves from its second to its first position.

8. Device according to one of the preceding claims taken together with claim 2, wherein the second arrangement (17) further comprises at least one elastic member (176; 177), this elastic member (176; 177) being arranged so as to return the second lever (174) and / or the second pawl (173) into a mutual position which corresponds to the deployed state of the second arrangement (17).

9. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the second arrangement (17) and the latch (8) are mutually arranged such that the latch (8) causes the second arrangement (17) to move from its extended state to its retracted state when the latch (8) moves from its second position to its first position.

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first arrangement (15) further comprises an ejection arm (164) capable of driving the latch (8) from its first to its second position and / or from its second to its third position, this ejection arm (164) being active over at least part of the travel of the first arrangement (15) corresponding to the first control action and / or over at least part of the travel of the first arrangement (15) corresponding to the second control action.

11. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the first arrangement (15) and the latch (8) interact essentially at a first plane, while the second arrangement (17) and the latch (8) interact essentially at a second plane, the first plane and the second plane being substantially parallel to each other.

12. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first arrangement (15) comprises a first pawl (153) movable from at least one position in which this first pawl (153) blocks the latch (8) in its first position and a first actuating lever (154) capable of being moved following the first control action and the second control action, at least part of the second arrangement (17) being capable of being driven by the actuating lever (153), over at least part of the travel of the actuating lever (15).

13. Device according to claim 12, in which the first lever (153) is capable of being actuated consecutively to the first control action and the second control action, and, on a stroke corresponding to the second control action, the first lever (154) travels a path which corresponds at least in part to a path traveled by the first lever (154) on a stroke corresponding to the first control action.

14. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the second arrangement (17) is arranged to limit the ejection stroke of the striker by the latch to a reduced stroke during the first control action and to extend the stroke to an elongated stroke during the second control action.

15. Device according to the preceding claim, in which a ratio between the reduced stroke and the extended stroke is between 0.1 and 0.2, and preferably around 0.

15.

16. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the stroke of the first arrangement (15) corresponding to the second action of command is greater than the stroke of the first arrangement (15) corresponding to the first command action.

17. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the second arrangement (17) is arranged so as to lock the latch (8) in the third position.

18. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the latch (8) comprises at least one portion (85, 821) arranged so as to retain the second arrangement (17) in the retracted state, this portion (85, 821) cooperating with the second arrangement (17) when the latch (8) is in its first position.

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