Vehicle opening including a means of blocking the lock in the event of impact.

Abstract

TITLE: Vehicle opening element comprising a means (5) for blocking the lock in the event of an impact. Opening element (10) for a motor vehicle comprising an exterior panel (12), an interior panel (13), an exterior opening control (2) and a lock (3) comprising a movable lever (31), the opening element (10) further comprising a means (5) for blocking the movement of the lever (31). Abstract figure: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle opening comprising a means for blocking the lock in the event of impact.

[0001] The invention relates to an opening for a vehicle comprising a means for blocking the lock in the event of an impact. The invention also extends to a blocking means for such an opening. The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising such an opening and / or blocking means.

[0002] A motor vehicle conventionally comprises at least one opening, in particular at least one side door, provided with an exterior opening control. The exterior opening control is generally arranged on an exterior panel of the opening and comprises an actuating means, such as a handle, and controls a lock. The lock may be arranged on an interior panel of the door concerned and comprises an exterior opening lever. An action on the actuating means causes, via a cable or rod motion transmission system, a pivoting of the exterior opening lever of the lock having the effect of releasing the lock and consequently opening the door.

[0003] However, during an impact, various parasitic phenomena may be generated, such as for example a deformation and / or a displacement of the actuating means, a deformation and / or a displacement of the transmission system, as well as the inertia of certain elements, and the lever of the lock may be driven to pivot to its position releasing the lock. Such pivoting results in an untimely and inopportune opening of the opening which is dangerous for users and contrary to regulatory requirements. It is thus desirable for a door deformed by an impact to remain closed in order to ensure its function of protecting the occupants of the vehicle.

[0004] Also, it is known to integrate into the opening a means for blocking the lever of the lock taking the form of an elongated stiffener fixed to the outer panel over its entire length, from the front to the rear of the opening. Such a stiffener is capable of entering the volume of movement of the lever in the event of deformation of the opening in order to block the lever for opening the lock, and consequently the lock. Such a blocking means nevertheless has the disadvantage of following the deformation of the outer panel. As a result, depending on the impact zone of the lateral impact, the blocking means can be displaced by the impact in such a way that it is rendered ineffective, particularly because it moves outside the zone of movement of the lever. This is particularly the case when the impact takes place at a distance from the lock, for example at the front or in a central zone of the opening.

[0005] The present invention falls within this context and aims to provide an opening for motor vehicle comprising an exterior panel and an interior panel, forming a box, an exterior opening control, a lock fixed to the interior panel and comprising a lever configured to be moved between a rest position blocking the lock and a release position releasing the lock so as to allow the opening of the opening. The opening further comprises a means for blocking the movement of the lever, elongated, extending along a first direction and comprising: - a base at least partly flat and a body partly connected to the base and extending towards the inner panel; - a first portion and a second portion respectively comprising a first end and a second end of the blocking means opposite along the first direction, the second portion being arranged close to the lock and comprising at least one cutout interposed between the base and at least one part of the body and extending from the second end to a folding zone of the blocking means so that at least one part of the body included in the second portion is floating relative to a part of the base of the second portion and is capable of extending in a trajectory of the lever between the rest position and the release position before the latter reaches the release position in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel produced along at least one second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0006] According to an exemplary embodiment, the body of the locking means comprises a “U” or substantially “U” shaped profile, a first wall and a second wall of the locking means forming arms of the “U”, connected to the base, and an intermediate wall forming a base of the “U”, connecting the first wall and the second wall.

[0007] In particular: - the opening further comprises a lock reinforcement, fixed to the interior panel, the second end of the locking means being fixed to the lock reinforcement; or - the second end of the locking means is fixed to an intermediate part of the box between the inner panel and the outer panel.

[0008] For example: - the opening further comprises an anti-intrusion reinforcement, fixed to the outer panel and extending along a direction of extension transverse to the first direction, the first end of the blocking means being fixed to the anti-intrusion reinforcement; or - the first end of the locking means is fixed to an intermediate part of the box between the inner panel and the outer panel.

[0009] Optionally, the opening comprises a central zone centered on a middle of the opening, defined along at least one direction, in particular the first direction, and extending over a distance, relative to the middle of the opening, of ±25% of the length of the opening defined along said direction, the folding zone of the adjustment means extending opposite the central zone.

[0010] In particular, the locking means is made of a plastic or metallic material.

[0011] According to examples of embodiment: - the locking means extends at least partly opposite the lever along the second direction; or - the locking means comprises an extension tab, extending at least partly opposite the lever along the second direction.

[0012] In particular, the cutouts are straight and extend parallel to the first direction and / or parallel to at least part of the base, said cutouts extending over at least 30%, or even 50%, of a length of the locking means defined along the first direction.

[0013] Optionally, the opening further comprises: - mastic placed between at least part of the base and the outer panel; and / or - shock-absorbing foam, arranged at at least one of the cutouts.

[0014] The invention also relates to a locking means for an opening according to the invention having an elongated shape extending along a first direction and comprising: - a base at least partly flat and a body partly connected to the base and extending outward from the base; - a first portion and a second portion respectively comprising a first end and a second end of the locking means opposite along the first direction, the second portion comprising at least one cutout interposed between the base and at least one part of the body and extending from the second end to a folding zone of the locking means so that at least one part of the body included in the second portion is floating relative to a part of the base of the second portion.

[0015] The invention finally relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising an opening and / or a locking means according to the invention.

[0016] Other details, characteristics and advantages will emerge more clearly on reading the detailed description given below, for informational and non-limiting purposes, in relation to the various exemplary embodiments illustrated in the following figures:

[0017] [Fig.l] is a schematic view of a vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0018] [Fig.2] is a schematic side view of a left rear side opening of the vehicle, comprising a means for blocking a lock in the event of impact and in which an exterior panel has been removed.

[0019] [Fig.3] is a schematic view of the locking means.

[0020] [Fig.4] is a schematic representation of the opening illustrating different positions of a lock lever.

[0021] [Fig.5] is a schematic representation of an impact displacing the locking means.

[0022] [Fig.6] is a perspective view of a lock reinforcement cooperating with the locking means.

[0023] [Fig.7] is a front view of the lock reinforcement cooperating with the locking means.

[0024] [Fig.8] is a top view of the opening in normal position.

[0025] [Fig.9] is a top view of the opening in an impact situation affecting the front and the central part of the opening.

[0026] [Fig. 10] is a representation of an alternative example of an opening in which the locking means comprises an extension tab.

[0027] [Fig. 11] is a schematic representation of the opening illustrated in [Fig. 10] in a normal situation.

[0028] [Fig. 12] is a schematic representation of the opening illustrated in [Fig. 10] in a situation of impact deforming the opening.

[0029] [Fig. 13] is a schematic representation of the opening comprising a damping foam having in particular the effect of reducing noise.

[0030] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates an embodiment of a vehicle 1, in particular a motor vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 may be of any type, in particular a private or utility vehicle. The vehicle 1 comprises at least one opening 10, preferably of the lateral type. In particular, the opening 10 is a rear side door. For the sake of clarity, the opening 10 described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 13 is the left rear side door of the vehicle 1, it is nevertheless understood that such a representation is in no way limiting and that the invention applies mutatis mutandis to a front side door, to doors located on the right of the vehicle 1 or to rear swinging or sliding doors of a vehicle 1, in particular of the utility type.

[0031] By convention in the description below, the direction in which the motor vehicle 1 moves in a straight line is defined as being the longitudinal direction X, oriented from front to rear. The direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and located in a plane parallel to the ground is called the transverse direction Y. The direction perpendicular to the directions X and Y is called the vertical direction Z. Thus, a direct reference XYZ is defined, represented in the figures requiring it.

[0032] Also, “interior” means the side closest to the interior of the passenger compartment of the vehicle 1. Similarly, “exterior” means the side opposite the interior of the passenger compartment, i.e. closest to an environment exterior to the vehicle 1 along the transverse direction Y. Finally, the terms “first” and “second” are intended to distinguish similar components and not to establish a hierarchy within the invention.

[0033] The opening 10 comprises a box 11 comprising at least one exterior panel 12 and one interior panel 13. For example, such panels can be made of aluminum alloy sheet or steel sheet.

[0034] The opening 10 comprises an exterior opening control 2. Preferably, the exterior opening control 2 is at least partially fixed to the exterior panel 12. The exterior opening control 2 comprises, according to non-limiting examples, an actuating means such as a handle or a mechanical push button.

[0035] Also, the opening 10 comprises a lock 3. In particular, the lock 3 is at least partially fixed to the interior panel 13 of the opening 10 and comprises a movable lever 31. The lever 31 is configured to be moved, under the effect of a request to open the opening 10 by actuation of the external opening control 2, between a rest position, illustrated in solid lines in FIGS. 4 and 10, and a release position, illustrated in dotted lines. Here, the term "opening request" means an action or effort exerted by a user to actuate the external opening control 2. The opening 10 preferably comprises a device 4 for transmitting the opening request between the external opening control 2 and the lever 31 of the lock 3 such as one or more rods or cables.In the rest position, the lever 31 has no effect on the lock 3 so that, if the opening 10 is in the closed position, the opening 10 remains in a locked closed state. In the release position, the lever 31 releases the lock 3 so that, if the opening 10 is in the closed position, the lever 31 releases the lock 3 so as to allow the opening of the opening 10. In particular, the external opening lever 31 is pivotally mounted about a rotation axis 310 extending, for example, longitudinally or substantially longitudinally when the opening 10 is closed. Preferably, when the lever 31 is moved, a free end of the lever 31 is moved within the box 11.

[0036] In the illustrated example which represents a transmission of movement by means of a transmission device 4 of the rod type, the free end of the lever 31 pivots in the counterclockwise direction and descends to pass from the rest position to the release position. Conversely, to pass from the release position to the rest position, the lever 31 pivots in the clockwise direction, so as to rise towards its initial rest position. According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, the transmission of movement is ensured by cables and the lever 31 pivots in directions opposite to those mentioned above.

[0037] The opening 10 further comprises a locking means 5 extending along a first direction 100. The locking means 5 is configured so as to block the movement of the lever 31 before it reaches the release position in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel 12. In other words, the locking means 5 is configured to extend transversely, that is to say across, the trajectory of the lever 31 between its rest position and its release position, as further explained below. In particular, an impact considered is a lateral impact carried out along a second direction 200, transverse, or even orthogonal to the first direction 100. In particular, the second direction 200 is parallel to the transverse direction Y.

[0038] Indeed, during an impact deforming the outer panel 12, it is essential to ensure, on the one hand, that the locking of the lever 31 is properly implemented, but also that it is implemented quickly, that is to say, preferably at the level of the rest position or an intermediate position distant from the release position, for example closer to the rest position than to the release position. Furthermore, it is essential not to hinder the operation of the lever 31 under normal conditions, that is to say when there is no deformation of the outer panel 12 and / or of the locking means 5.

[0039] The locking means 5 is an elongated part added and mounted in the opening 10. By "elongated" is meant that its length is strictly greater than its width, or even at least greater than twice its width. Here, by "length" is meant the dimension measured along the first direction 100 and by width a dimension defined along a direction orthogonal to the first direction 100 and to the second direction 200.

[0040] Preferably, the locking means 5 is made of a metallic material, for example folded sheet metal, in particular steel or aluminum alloy sheet metal. Alternatively, the locking means 5 is at least partially made of a plastic material.

[0041] The blocking means 5 includes a base 51 and a body 52 at least partially connected to the base 51. The base 51 and the body 52 extend substantially over the length of the blocking means 5, that is to say over at least 50% of said length, or even 70%. Particularly, the base 51 and / or the body 52 extend(s) over the entire length of the blocking means 5. According to an exemplary embodiment, the body 52 and the base 51 of the blocking means form a one-piece assembly, that is to say that they cannot be dissociated without resulting in the degradation, or even the destruction of the blocking means 5.

[0042] The base 51 is flat or substantially flat and extends at or near the outer panel 12. The body 52 includes a plurality of walls and extends in projection from the base 51, towards the inner panel 13. The body 52 is arranged such that the base 51 is interposed between the body 52 and the outer panel 12 along the second direction 200.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, illustrated in Figures 2 to 13, the body 52 of the locking means 5 comprises a “U” shaped profile, or substantially “U” shaped. The body 52 thus comprises a first wall 52a and a second wall 52b of the locking means 5 forming arms of the “U” and an intermediate wall 52c forming a base of the “U”, connecting the first wall 52a and the second wall 52b. According to alternative embodiments not shown, the locking means 5 may have a substantially “L”, “V”, “W”, “O” or “H” shaped profile.

[0044] The first wall 52a and the second wall 52b of the body 52 are both connected to the base 51. The entire body 52 having a “U” shape and the base 51 can thus be inscribed in a “Q” profile, that is to say an omega, or substantially an omega. The first wall 52a and the second wall 52b extend on the same side of the base 51 along the second direction 200 when the locking means 5 is positioned in the opening 10. The body 52 thus has a hollow, profiled shape, a top of which formed by the intermediate wall 52c has greater proximity to the interior panel 13 than the base 51. The first wall 52a and the second wall 52b extend transversely relative to the base 51 and relative to the intermediate wall 52c.Preferably, in order to limit the space generated at the level of the intermediate wall 52c, the first wall 52a and the second wall 52b are inclined relative to the base 51 and relative to the intermediate wall 52c.

[0045] In particular, the base 51 comprises a first base 51a and a second base 51b, respectively connected to the first wall 52a and to the second wall 52b, the first base 51a and the second base 51b being planar or substantially planar. In particular, according to an exemplary embodiment, the first base 51a and the second base 51b are at least partly in the same plane.

[0046] Also, the locking means 5 comprises a first portion 53 and a second portion 54, corresponding to separate parts of the locking means 5 along the first direction 100 connected to each other. The first portion 53 comprises a first end 55a of the locking means 5 while the second portion 54 comprises a second end 55b, opposite the first end 55a along the first direction 100. The second portion 54 has a greater proximity than the first portion 53 relative to the lock 3 and the lever 31.

[0047] The first portion 53 and the second portion 54 each comprise a part of the base 51 and the body 52 as described above. The parts of the base 51 and the body 52 are notably more rigid in the first portion 53 than in the second portion 54.

[0048] Particularly, according to the invention, the second portion 54 comprises at least one cutout 56 interposed between the base 51 and at least one part of the body 52. ​​For example, as illustrated, the locking means 5 comprises a plurality of cutouts 56. The following description is made with reference to a locking means 5 comprising a plurality of cutouts 56, it is understood that it applies mutatis mutandis to a locking means comprising at least one cutout 56. In particular, the cutouts 56 are made at a connecting zone connecting the body 52 to the base 51. In this case, cutouts 56 are made between the first wall 52a and the first base 51a on the one hand, and between the second wall 52b and the second base 51b on the other hand. As a result, at least a portion of the body 52 included in the second portion 54 is floating relative to a portion of the base 51 of the second portion 54.By "floating" is meant that, for a profile of a part of the second portion 54 of the locking means 5, defined in a plane orthogonal to the first direction 100, at least a part of the body 52 is not directly connected to the base 51 and extends at a non-zero distance from the base 51 within said plane. Conversely, the first portion 53 of the locking means 5 is devoid of such cutouts 56, the connection zones between the body 52 and the base 51 included in the first portion 53 thus being solid.

[0049] Preferably, the cutouts 56 are arranged so that, within a profile of a plane considered, the base 51 and the body 52 are separated, the base 51 comprising one or more flat strips.

[0050] The cutouts 56 extend from the second end 55b to an area of ​​the locking means 5 referred to as a folding area 57. The “folding area” corresponds to a transition area between the first portion 53 and at least part of the second portion 54 comprising the cutouts 56, said portions having different rigidities and being able to react differently in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel 13. Indeed, the presence of cutouts 56, as further described below, confers a difference in flexibility and mobility between the body 52 and the base 51 within the second portion 54. The base 51, in particular due to its flat shape, has greater flexibility than the body 52 and can be deformed in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel 12. The body 52, due to its hollow elongated shape, in particular a “U” shape, is more rigid.

[0051] In this way, the locking means 5 prevents situations in which, due to the impact deforming the outer panel 12, the locking means 5 is deformed as a unit with the outer panel 12 and driven away from the lever 31, as can be observed in the prior art with locking means having simple rectilinear structures. In general, detailed further below, the locking means 5 according to the invention makes it possible to ensure that the body 52 is able to extend in the trajectory of the lever 31 between the rest position and the release position. of the lever 31, before the latter reaches the release position, in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel 12 produced along the second direction 200 and this even if the base 51 undergoes a deformation moving it in the direction opposite to the lever 31. The body 52, in particular the part of the body 52 included in the second portion 54, thus comprises at least one stop surface capable of coming into contact with the lever 31 in the event of an impact along the second direction 200.

[0052] Preferably, the cutouts 56 are straight and extend parallel to the first direction 100 and / or parallel to at least one part of the base 51. Such a principle makes it possible to ensure the homogeneity of rigidity, along the first direction 100, of the part of the floating body 52 extending opposite the cutouts 56. The same applies to a homogeneity of rigidity of the base 51, in particular a homogeneity of rigidity within the part of the first base 51a extending opposite one of the cutouts 56 or the second base 51b.

[0053] For example, said cutouts 56 extend over at least 30%, or even 50%, of the length of the locking means 5 defined along the first direction 100. Too great a length of the cutouts 56, for example greater than 75% of the length of the locking means 5, is likely to result in problems of vibrations and / too great flexibility of the body 52. ​​Conversely, a length of the cutouts 56 less than 10% of the length of the locking means 5, or even 20%, is likely to limit, or even prevent, the deformation capacity of the base 51.

[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment, the locking means 5 extends at least partly opposite the lever 31 along the second direction 200. In particular, a part of the body 52 of the second portion 54 of the locking means 5 extends opposite the lever 31 along the second direction 200. In other words, at least one axis parallel to the second direction 200 passes through the lever 31 and the locking means 5. For example, the body 52 extends opposite the axis of rotation 310 of the lever 31. Thus, in the absence of deformation, the locking means 5 extends at a non-zero distance from the lever 31 so as not to interfere with its trajectory. In particular, the body 52 is placed as close as possible to the lever 31 along the transverse direction Y, the gap between the body 52 and the lever 31 being, for example, between 1 mm and 9 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 4 mm, along the transverse direction Y.In the event of an impact along the second direction 200 deforming the outer panel 12, the blocking means 5 is thus moved so that at least the body 52 extends into the path of the lever 31, then blocking the movement of the latter.

[0055] Alternatively, the body 52 of the locking means 5 comprises an extension tab 58 arranged at the level of the second portion 54 and the second end 55b. Such a locking means 5 is, for example, implemented when the area surrounding the lock 3 is very bulky and it is not possible to arrange the locking means 5 opposite the lever 31 of the lock 3 along the second direction 200. The extension tab 58 is connected to at least one of the walls of the body 52, for example to the intermediate wall 52c. It can be attached and fixed to said wall, for example welded or riveted, or, alternatively, the at least one wall and the extension tab 58 are made in one piece. The extension tab 58 extends at least partly transversely to the first direction 100, as shown in dotted lines in [Fig. 10]. According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the body 52 comprises the extension tab 58 obtained by cutting and stamping, for example so that the body 52 and the extension tab 58 form a single-piece assembly.

[0056] For example, the extension tab 58 extends parallel, or substantially parallel, to the vertical direction Z. Preferably, the extension tab 58 has a stepped profile comprising a first segment 58a, connected to at least one of the walls of the body 52 of the locking means 5, a second segment 58b, free and arranged in a plane distinct from the first segment 58a, and an intermediate segment 58c, inclined relative to the first segment 58a and to the second segment 58b and connecting them together. Here, the term "segment" means a portion of a whole. The intermediate segment 58c is inclined towards the lever 31 so that the second segment 58b has greater proximity relative to the lever 31 than the first segment 58a. Optionally, the intermediate segment 58c has a first inclination a1, greater than 90°, relative to the first segment 58a and / or a second inclination a2, greater than 90°, relative to the second segment 58b.In such an example, at least the second segment 58b comprises the stop zone and is able to extend across the path of the lever 31 so as to interrupt its movement before it reaches its release position.

[0057] Thus the base 51 and the plurality of walls of the body 52 of the locking means 5 are not directly arranged opposite the lever 31 but can be arranged lower than the latter within the opening 10 to adapt to a cluttered environment and to a wide variety of opening architectures 10. The extension tab 58 is integral with the plurality of walls of the body 52 and is moved concomitantly with the rest of the locking means 5 in the event of an impact along the second direction 200 deforming the outer panel 12 so as to ensure the locking of the lever 31 as described above.

[0058] The locking means 5 can be mounted according to different variants of execution within the opening 10. In particular, different variants of fixing of the first end 55a and the second end 55b of the locking means 5 can be implemented and combined with each other. The locking means 5 is partly mounted fixed, or substantially fixed, relative to the exterior panel 12 when the opening 10 is in normal condition, that is to say when the opening 10 is not deformed by an impact. The locking means 5 is arranged so that the body 52 and the base 51 extend at a non-zero distance from the lever 31, outside the movement path of the latter.

[0059] Generally, the blocking means 5 is at least partly arranged, directly and / or indirectly, on the outer panel 12 and is shaped so as to extend towards the inner panel 13.

[0060] According to a first exemplary embodiment of the attachment of the first end 55a, illustrated in [Fig. 2], the opening 10 further comprises an anti-intrusion reinforcement 6 fixed to the outer panel 12. The anti-intrusion reinforcement has an elongated shape, for example a crosspiece shape, and extends along an extension direction 600 transverse to the first direction 100. In particular, the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6 passes through a central zone 14 of the opening 10. The term “central zone 14” means an area of ​​the opening 10 centered on a middle of the opening 10, said middle being defined along at least one direction, in particular the first direction 100 or the longitudinal direction X. For example, the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6 extends diagonally in the opening 10, from the front to the rear of the vehicle 1.

[0061] The blocking means 5 is arranged transversely to the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6, for example so as to form an angle β between 90 and 145° relative to the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6. The blocking means 5 passes through the central zone 14 of the opening 10. The first end 55a of the blocking means 5 is fixed to the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6. According to embodiments, the first end 55a of the blocking means 5 is welded, riveted, screwed and / or glued to the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6. The blocking means 5 is then indirectly connected to the outer panel 12 via the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6 at the first end 55a. Preferably, the first end 55a of the blocking means 5 is fixed at least via a part of the base 51 of the first portion 53.According to an optional embodiment, the base 51 of the first portion 53 is extended beyond the body 52 so as to cooperate with the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6. Optionally again, the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6 comprises a reinforcing edge 61, in particular a central one, capable of forming a stop for the blocking means 5 along a direction of the first direction 100.

[0062] According to a second exemplary embodiment of the fixing of the first end 55a, illustrated in dotted lines in [Fig.2], the first end 55a of the locking means 5 is fixed on a first intermediate part of the box 11 comprised between the inner panel 13 and the outer panel 12, for example on a thickness or a seam of the box 11. Similar to what has been explained above, the locking means 5 is then arranged so as to pass through the central zone 14 of the opening and extends from front to rear. Such an alternative can be, for example, implemented when the opening 10 is without anti-intrusion reinforcement 6.

[0063] Alternatively, the first end 55a is directly fixed to the outer panel 12. Similar to what has been explained above, the first end 55a can be welded, riveted, screwed and / or glued.

[0064] According to a first example of embodiment of the fixing of the second end 55b, illustrated in [Fig.2], 6 or 7, the opening 10 further comprises a lock reinforcement 7. In particular, the lock reinforcement 7 is at least fixed on the interior panel 13. Alternatively or additionally, the lock reinforcement 7 is at least fixed on a second intermediate part of the box 11 between the interior panel 13 and the exterior panel 12, for example on a thickness or a setting of the box 11.

[0065] The lock reinforcement 7 is a part making it possible to reinforce the stiffness and / or the hold of the lock 3, in particular relative to the interior panel 13. For example, as illustrated, the lock reinforcement 7 is arranged at a rear part of the box 11, near the lock 3. In particular, the lock reinforcement 7 is a metal part, for example made of sheet metal, in particular of the same nature as that used in the manufacture of the box 11.

[0066] For example, the locking reinforcement 7 comprises an "L" shape having a first side 71 and a second side 72 extending transversely to each other, in particular orthogonally to each other. In this case, in the illustrated locking reinforcement 7, the first side 71 is fixed to the inner panel 13 and the second side 72 extends transversely to the first side 71, in the direction of the outer panel 12 and the locking means 5. The second end 55b of the locking means 5 is at least partly fixed to the locking reinforcement 7. In particular, only the base 51 is fixed to the locking reinforcement 7. The locking reinforcement 7 is dimensioned and shaped so as not to prevent the displacement of the body 52 of the locking means 5 towards the lever 31, in particular a displacement along the second direction 200, in the event of a shock deforming the outer panel 12.

[0067] According to an optional but preferred embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.6] or 7, the lock reinforcement 7 comprises a fixing appendage 73 of the fixing means. The fixing appendage 73 is carried by the “L”-shaped structure, here by the second side 72, and comprises at least one connecting tab 74 configured to cooperate with the base 51. The at least one connecting tab 74 is also configured to form a stop for the locking means 5 along at least one direction of the second direction 200. For example, as illustrated, the at least one connecting tab 74 is arranged so as to be interposed between the base 51 and the outer panel 12 along the second direction 200. In this case, the fixing appendage 73 comprises two connecting tabs 74, each connecting tab 74 being configured to cooperate with one of the bases of the base 51.The shape of the lock reinforcement 7, in particular of the fixing appendage 73, is adapted to allow the movement of the body 52 along the second . direction 200, towards the lever 31. Also, the shape of the lock reinforcement 7 and / or the position of the locking means 5 ensure, along the first direction 100, the presence of a clearance between all or part of the lock reinforcement 7 and at least the body 52, particularly the second end 55b of the locking means 5.

[0068] According to a second example of embodiment of the fixing of the second end 55b, not shown, the second end 55b of the locking means 5 is fixed on the second intermediate part of the box 11 comprised between the inner panel 13 and the outer panel 12 and opposite the first intermediate part, for example on the thickness or the crimping of the box 11. Similar to what has been explained above, the second end 55b can be welded, riveted or glued.

[0069] The locking means 5 is thus arranged so as to be at least fixed at the first end 55a and the second end 55b, in particular at least by means of a part of the base 51 of the locking means 5 included at the said ends. It is understood that the different alternatives for fixing the first end 55a and the second end 55b can be combined with each other without any particular constraint. Depending on the alternatives implemented, the locking means 5 can thus extend over all or part of a dimension of the opening 10 defined along the first direction 100.

[0070] In order to further optimize the operation of the locking means 5 to ensure its operation and its deformation both in the event of an impact at the front, center or rear of the opening 10, the position of the folding zone 57 is advantageously, optionally but preferably, arranged at the central zone 14 of the opening 10. As indicated above, the “central zone 14” here refers to the zone of the opening 10 centered on a middle of the opening 10, said middle being defined along at least one direction, in particular the first direction 100 or the longitudinal direction X. In particular, the “central zone 14” of the opening 10 extends over a distance, relative to the middle of the opening 10, of ±35%, or even ±25%, of the dimension of the opening 10 defined along the direction considered. In other words, as illustrated in [Fig.2], the central zone 14 is here a circle centered on the middle of the dimension of the opening 10 defined along a direction considered, here the first direction 100, the radius of which is equal to ±35%, or even ±25%, of said dimension.

[0071] Optionally, at least a portion of the base 51 of the locking means 5, between the first end 55a and the second end 55b, is fixed to the exterior panel 12. For example, as illustrated, the opening 10 comprises a glue or a mastic 81 having structuring functions, that is to say adhesive functions, making it possible to fix at least a portion of the base 51, of the first portion 53 and / or of the second portion 54, to the exterior panel 12.

[0072] Alternatively, the locking means 5 is fixed via the first end 55a and the second end 55b, according to one of the alternatives set out above for each of said ends, while all or part of the base 51 of the locking means 5 between the first end 55a and the second end 55b is floating relative to the outer panel 12, that is to say arranged at a non-zero distance from the outer panel 12. Preferably, in such an alternative, the opening 10 comprises a damping member 82 configured to limit contact between the locking means 5 and the outer panel 12 and / or to limit vibrations of the locking means 5. The damping member 82 is then arranged between the base 51 and the outer panel 12 over all or part of the length of the locking means 5.For example, the damping member 82 is a packing putty or even a closed-cell foam, which in particular makes it possible to prevent water retention.

[0073] Optionally again, the opening 10 may comprise at least one damping foam 83, capable of reducing the generation of vibration at the part of the body 52, included in the second portion 54 of the locking means 5, floating relative to the base 51. The damping foam 83 is at least arranged in the at least one cutout 56, over all or part of the length thereof. The same applies when the locking means 5 comprises a plurality of cutouts 56. Also, the damping foam 83 extends partly in the hollow delimited by the shape of the body 52. ​​Optionally, the damping foam 83 may extend between the first base 51a and the second base 51b of the base 51, in particular so as to come into contact with the exterior panel 12.Such an arrangement advantageously prevents the generation of noise due to vibrations of the locking means 5 relative to the outer panel 12, in particular when the longitudinal speed of the vehicle 1 increases, or resulting from the vibration of the floating body 52 relative to the base 51.

[0074] Thus, in normal operation of the vehicle 1, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 8, the lever 31 is moved freely between the rest position and the release position, here by pivoting around the rotation axis 310. The lever 31 is moved by means of the transmission device 4 following a request on the external opening control 2. The locking means 5 then does not hinder the movement of the lever 31 and extends at a non-zero distance from a free end of the lever 31.

[0075] When an impact is exerted against the outer panel 12 along the second direction 200, from the outside towards the inside of the vehicle 1, of the opening 10, represented by the arrows in [Fig.5] or 9, the outer panel 12 deforms by bending. As a result, at least a part of the outer panel 12 approaches the inner panel 13. The blocking means 5, directly and / or indirectly mounted on the outer panel 12 according to the alternatives described above, also moves along the second direction 200.

[0076] For an impactor element 15 striking the front and / or central part of the opening 10, as illustrated in [Fig.9], at least a part of the base 51 of the locking means 5 follows the deformation of the outer panel 12. The first portion 53, directly and / or indirectly mounted on the outer panel 12 at least at the level of the first end 55a, is moved concomitantly with the outer panel 12, according to the same amplitude, towards the inner panel 13.

[0077] The base 51 of the locking means 5 according to the invention deforms at the fold zone 57 and the part of the base 51 included in the second portion 54 is driven by the deformation of the outer panel 12 so that it is partly inclined relative to the part of the base 51 included in the first portion 53. The part of the body 52 included in the second portion 54 being floating relative to the base 51, said part of the body 52 remains aligned, or substantially aligned, with the part of the body 52 included in the first portion 53. The body 52 remains, for example, parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction X over its entire length. The part of the body 52 included in the second portion 54 is then moved along the second direction 200 similarly to the first portion 53 of the locking means 5 due to the movement of the outer panel 12.The body 52 is then arranged across the path of the lever 31 and forms a stop for the latter before it can reach the release position. The lever 31 is then locked in the rest position or in an intermediate position between the rest position and the release position, in particular in the vicinity of the rest position. The locking means 5 quickly interrupts the movement of the lever 31. The untimely opening of the lock 3, and consequently of the opening 10, is prevented despite the various parasitic factors or phenomena caused by the shock.

[0078] The stop zone with the lever 31 can be included in different parts of the body 52 depending on the embodiment implemented. For example, the stop zone is included in the first wall 52a, the second wall 52b and / or the intermediate wall 52c when the body 52 has a “U” structure and depending on the type of transmission device 4 used. Alternatively, the stop zone is included in the extension tab 58 as explained above.

[0079] When the impactor element 15 strikes the rear part of the opening 10, here comprising the lock 3, the base 51 and the body 52 of the second portion 54 are both displaced along the second direction 200 in a manner similar to the deformation of the outer panel 12. They are thus displaced towards the lever 31, which allows a conventional blocking of the lever 31 by positioning the body 52 across the trajectory of the lever 31.

[0080] The present invention thus provides an opening comprising a locking means mounted directly and / or indirectly on an exterior panel of the opening which is adapted to various impact situations and makes it possible to ensure the protection of the occupants by maintaining the opening in the closed configuration independently of the area of ​​the opening impacted by the impact. The blocking means can advantageously be applied to a wide variety of openings. Although the solution is particularly suitable for a side impact on a swinging or sliding side door, in particular on a rear side door, the solution can be extended to a swinging trunk door of a utility vehicle.

[0081] The present invention cannot, however, be limited to the means and configurations described and illustrated here and it also extends to any equivalent means or configuration and to any technically operative combination of such means insofar as they ultimately fulfill the functionalities described and illustrated in the present document.

Claims

Claims

1. Opening (10) for a motor vehicle (1) comprising an outer panel (12) and an inner panel (13), forming a box (11), an outer opening control (2), a lock (3) fixed to the inner panel (13) and comprising a lever (31) configured to be moved between a rest position blocking the lock (3) and a release position releasing the lock (3) so as to allow the opening (10) to be opened, the opening (10) further comprising a means (5) for blocking the movement of the lever (31), elongated, extending along a first direction (100) and comprising: - a base (51) at least partly flat and a body (52) partly connected to the base (51) and extending towards the inner panel (13);- a first portion (53) and a second portion (54) respectively comprising a first end (55a) and a second end (55b) of the locking means (5) opposite along the first direction (100), the second portion (54) being arranged close to the lock (3) and comprising at least one cutout (56) interposed between the base (51) and at least one part of the body (52) and extending from the second end (55b) to a folding zone (57) of the locking means (5) so that at least one part of the body (52) included in the second portion (54) is floating relative to a part of the base (51) of the second portion (54) and is capable of extending in a trajectory of the lever (31) between the rest position and the release position before the latter reaches the release position in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel (12) produced on along at least a second direction (200) transverse to the first direction (100).;

2. Opening (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the body (52) of the locking means (5) comprises a “U” or substantially “U” shaped profile, a first wall (52a) and a second wall (52b) of the locking means (5) forming arms of the “U”, connected to the base (51), and an intermediate wall (52c) forming a base of the “U”, connecting the first wall (52a) and the second wall (52b).

3. Opening (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which: - the opening (10) further comprises a lock reinforcement (7), fixed on the interior panel (13), the second end (55b) of the locking means (5) being fixed on the lock reinforcement (7); or - the second end (55b) of the locking means (5) is fixed on a intermediate part of the box (11) between the inner panel (13) and the outer panel (12).

4. Opening (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which: - the opening (10) further comprises an anti-intrusion reinforcement (6), fixed on the outer panel (12) and extending along an extension direction (600) transverse to the first direction (100), the first end (55a) of the blocking means (5) being fixed on the anti-intrusion reinforcement (6); or - the first end (55a) of the blocking means (5) is fixed on an intermediate part of the box (11) between the inner panel (13) and the outer panel (12).

5. Opening (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a central zone (14) centered on a middle of the opening (10), defined along at least one direction, in particular the first direction (100), and extending over a distance, relative to the middle of the opening (10), of ±25% of the length of the opening (10) defined along said direction, the folding zone (57) of the adjustment means extending opposite the central zone (14).

6. Opening (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which: - the locking means (5) extends at least partly opposite the lever (31) along the second direction (200); or - the locking means (5) comprises an extension tab (58), extending at least partly opposite the lever (31) along the second direction (200).

7. Opening (10) one of the preceding claims, wherein the cutouts (56) are straight and extend parallel to the first direction (100) and / or parallel to at least a portion of the base (51), said cutouts (56) extending over at least 30%, or even 50%, of a length of the locking means (5) defined along the first direction (100).

8. Opening (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - mastic (81) disposed between at least a portion of the base (51) and the outer panel (12); and / or - shock-absorbing foam (83), disposed at at least one of the cutouts (56).

9. Locking means (5) for an opening according to one of the preceding claims having an elongated shape extending along a first direction (100) and comprising: - a base (51) at least partly flat and a body (52) partly connected to the base (51) and extending in projection from the base (51); - a first portion (53) and a second portion (54) respectively comprising a first end (55a) and a second end (55b) of the locking means (5) opposite along the first direction (100), the second portion (54) comprising at least one cutout (56) interposed between the base (51) and at least one part of the body (52) and extending from the second end (55b) to a folding zone (57) of the locking means (5) so that at least one part of the body (52) included in the second portion (54) is floating relative to a part of the base (51) of the second portion (54).

10. Vehicle (1), in particular motor vehicle (1), characterized in that it comprises an opening (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8 and / or a locking means (5) according to claim 9.

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