Vehicle opening including a means of locking the lock in case of impact.

Abstract

TITLE: Vehicle opening comprising a locking means (5) for the lock in case of impact. Opening (10) for a motor vehicle comprising an outer panel (12), an inner panel (13), an outer opening control (2) and a lock (3) having a movable lever (31), the opening (10) further comprising a locking means (5) for the movement of the lever (31). Figure from the abstract: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle opening comprising a means of locking the lock in case of impact.

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

[0002] A motor vehicle typically includes at least one opening, in particular at least one side door, equipped with an external opening control. The external opening control is generally arranged on an external panel of the opening and includes an actuating means, such as a handle, and operates a lock. The lock may be arranged on an internal panel of the door concerned and includes an external opening lever. Activating the actuating means causes, via a cable or rod drive system, a pivoting of the external opening lever of the lock, thereby releasing the lock and consequently opening the door.

[0003] However, during an impact, various unwanted phenomena can occur, such as, for example, deformation and / or displacement of the actuating mechanism, deformation and / or displacement of the transmission system, as well as the inertia of certain components, and the lock lever can be pivoted until it reaches the position that releases the lock. Such pivoting results in an untimely and inopportune opening of the door, which is dangerous for users and contrary to regulatory requirements. It is therefore desirable that a door deformed by an impact remain closed in order to ensure its function of protecting the vehicle's occupants.

[0004] It is also known to integrate into the opening sash a means for blocking the lock lever in the form of an elongated stiffener fixed to the outer panel along its entire length, from the front to the rear of the sash. Such a stiffener is designed to enter the lever's travel in the event of deformation of the sash, thereby blocking the lock's opening lever and consequently the lock. However, such a blocking means has the disadvantage of following the deformation of the outer panel. As a result, depending on the impact zone of the lateral shock, the blocking means may be displaced by the impact in such a way that it becomes ineffective, particularly because it moves outside the lever's travel zone. This is especially the case when the impact occurs at a distance from the lock, for example, at the front or in a central area of ​​the sash.

[0005] The present invention falls within this context and aims to provide an opening for A motor vehicle comprising an outer panel and an inner panel, forming a housing, an outer opening control, a lock fixed to the inner panel, and a lever configured to be moved between a rest position that locks the lock and a release position that releases the lock, thus allowing the opening of the door. The door further comprises a means for blocking the movement of the elongated lever, 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 comprising respectively a first end and a second end of the locking means opposite along the first direction, the second portion being disposed near 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 area of ​​the locking means such 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 able to extend in a trajectory of the lever included 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 made along at least one second direction transverse to the first direction.

[0006] According to one embodiment, the body of the locking means comprises a U-shaped 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 also includes a lock reinforcement, fixed to the inner panel, the second end of the locking mechanism being fixed to the lock reinforcement; or - the second end of the locking means is fixed on an intermediate part of the box located between the inner panel and the outer panel.

[0008] For example: - the opening also includes 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 locking means being fixed to the anti-intrusion reinforcement; or - the first end of the locking means is fixed on an intermediate part of the box located between the inner panel and the outer panel.

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

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

[0011] According to examples of implementation: - the locking mechanism extends at least partially opposite the lever along the second direction; or - the locking means includes an extension tab, extending at least partially 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 a 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 also includes: - sealant applied between at least part of the base and the outer panel; and / or - cushioning foam, positioned 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 outwards from the base; - a first portion and a second portion comprising respectively 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 area of ​​the locking means such 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, features and advantages will become clearer upon reading the detailed description given below, by way of example and not limitation, in relation to the various embodiments illustrated in the following figures:

[0017] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a vehicle according to one embodiment.

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

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

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

[0021] The [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 situation.

[0025] Figure 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 includes 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 shock situation deforming the opening.

[0029] Fig. 13 is a schematic representation of the opening including a damping foam which has the effect of reducing noise.

[0030] Figure 1 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a vehicle 1, in particular a motor vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 may be of any type, including passenger cars or commercial vehicles. The vehicle 1 comprises at least one opening 10, preferably of the side type. In particular, the opening 10 is a rear side door. For clarity, the opening 10 described with reference to Figures 2 to 13 is the left rear side door of the vehicle 1; however, it is 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 side of the vehicle 1, or even to rear hinged or sliding doors of a vehicle 1, in particular a commercial vehicle.

[0031] By convention in the following description, the direction in which the motor vehicle 1 moves in a straight line is defined as the longitudinal direction X, oriented from front to back. 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 X and Y directions is called the vertical direction Z. Thus, a direct coordinate system XYZ is defined, as represented in the figures where required.

[0032] Also, "interior" means the side closest to the interior of the vehicle's passenger compartment 1. Similarly, "exterior" means the side opposite the interior of the passenger compartment, that is, the side closest to an environment external to 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 includes a box 11 comprising at least one outer panel 12 and one inner panel 13. For example, such panels can be made of aluminum alloy sheet or steel sheet.

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

[0035] The opening 10 also includes a lock 3. In particular, the lock 3 is at least partially fixed to the inner panel 13 of the opening 10 and includes a movable lever 31. The lever 31 is configured to be moved, upon a request to open the opening 10 by actuating the external opening control 2, between a rest position, illustrated by solid lines in Figures 4 and 10, and a release position, illustrated by dashed lines. Here, "opening request" means an action or effort exerted by a user to actuate the external opening control 2. The opening 10 preferably includes 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, lever 31 has no effect on the lock 3, so that if the sash 10 is in the closed position, the sash 10 remains locked closed. In the release position, lever 31 releases the lock 3, so that if the sash 10 is in the closed position, lever 31 releases the lock 3, allowing the sash 10 to be opened. In particular, the external opening lever 31 is pivotally mounted around a rotation axis 310 extending, for example, longitudinally or substantially longitudinally when the sash 10 is closed. Preferably, when lever 31 is moved, a free end of lever 31 is moved within the housing 11.

[0036] In the illustrated example, which represents a transmission of motion via a rod-type transmission device 4, the free end of the lever 31 pivots counterclockwise and moves downward from the rest position to the release position. Conversely, to move from the release position to the rest position, the lever 31 pivots clockwise, so as to return to its initial rest position. According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, the transmission of motion is achieved by cables and the lever 31 pivots in the opposite directions to those described above.

[0037] The opening 10 further includes a locking means 5 extending along a first direction 100. The locking means 5 is configured 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, across, the path 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 occurring 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, in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel 12, it is essential to ensure, firstly, that the locking mechanism of the lever 31 is properly engaged, but also that it is engaged quickly, that is to say, preferably in 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 impede 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 the locking means 5.

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

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

[0041] The locking means 5 comprises a base 51 and a body 52 at least partially connected to the base 51. The base 51 and the body 52 extend over most of the length of the locking means 5, i.e., over at least 50% of said length, or even 70%. In particular, the base 51 and / or the body 52 extend(s) over the entire length of the locking means 5. According to one embodiment, the body 52 and the base 51 of the locking means form a single unit, i.e., they cannot be separated without resulting in the degradation, or even the destruction, of the locking means 5.

[0042] The base 51 is flat or substantially flat and extends at or near the level of the outer panel 12. The body 52 comprises a plurality of walls and projects 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 or substantially U-shaped profile. 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-shaped, V-shaped, W-shaped, O-shaped, 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 whole of the body 52 having a "U" shape and of the base 51 can thus fit into a "Q" profile, that is to say in omega, or substantially in 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, the apex of which, formed by the intermediate wall 52c, is closer to the inner 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 bulk generated at 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 the second wall 52b, the first base 51a and the second base 51b being planar or substantially planar. In particular, according to one embodiment, the first base 51a and the second base 51b lie at least partially in the same plane.

[0046] Also, the locking means 5 comprises a first portion 53 and a second portion 54, corresponding to distinct parts of the locking means 5 along the first direction 100 connected together. 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 is closer than the first portion 53 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] In particular, 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 given 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 connection zone linking 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. It follows that at least a 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.The term "floating" means that, for a profile of a portion of the second part 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 part 53 of the locking means 5 is devoid of such cutouts 56, the connection zones between the body 52 and the base 51 contained within the first part 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 a zone of the locking means 5 referred to as the bending zone 57. The "bending zone" corresponds to a transition zone 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 described further 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, exhibits 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 elongated hollow shape, in particular in 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 single unit with the outer panel 12 and carried away from the lever 31, as can be observed in the prior art with locking means having simple straight structures. More generally, and in further detail below, the locking means 5 according to the invention ensures that the body 52 is able to extend along the path of the lever 31 between the rest position and the release position. of the lever 31, before it reaches the release position, in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel 12 made along the second direction 200, even if the base 51 undergoes a deformation displacing it in the opposite direction to the lever 31. The body 52, in particular the part of the body 52 included in the second portion 54, thus includes 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 a part of the base 51. Such a principle makes it possible to ensure the homogeneity of rigidity, along the first direction 100, of the floating part of the 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 of the second base 51b.

[0053] For example, said cutouts 56 extending over at least 30%, or even 50%, of the length of the locking means 5 defined along the first direction 100. An excessive length of the cutouts 56, for example greater than 75% of the length of the locking means 5, is likely to result in vibration problems and / or excessive 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 one embodiment, the locking means 5 extends at least partially opposite the lever 31 along the second direction 200. In particular, a portion 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 1mm and 9mm, preferably between 1mm and 4mm, along the transverse direction Y.In the event of an impact along the second direction 200 deforming the outer panel 12, the locking means 5 is thus displaced so that at least the body 52 extends in the path of the lever 31, thereby blocking the movement of the latter.

[0055] Alternatively, the body 52 of the locking means 5 includes an extension tab 58 disposed at the second portion 54 and the second end 55b. Such a locking means 5 is implemented, for example, when the area surrounding the lock 3 is very crowded and it is not possible to dispose of the The locking means 5 is positioned opposite the locking 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 may be attached and fixed to said wall, for example, by welding or riveting, or, alternatively, at least one wall and the extension tab 58 may be made of a single piece of material. The extension tab 58 extends at least partially transversely to the first direction 100, as shown by the dashed lines in [Fig. 10]. According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the body 52 includes the extension tab 58, which is obtained by cutting and stamping, for example, so that the body 52 and the extension tab 58 form a single unit.

[0056] For example, the extension leg 58 extends parallel, or substantially parallel, to the vertical direction Z. Preferably, the extension leg 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 disposed in a plane distinct from the first segment 58a, and an intermediate segment 58c, inclined relative to the first segment 58a and the second segment 58b and connecting them. Here, "segment" means a portion of a whole. The intermediate segment 58c is inclined towards the lever 31 such that the second segment 58b is closer 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 includes the stop zone and is capable of extending 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 it within the opening 10 to adapt to a cluttered environment and 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 case of 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 in various embodiments within the opening 10. In particular, different fixing variants of the first end 55a and the second end 55b of the locking means 5 can be implemented and combined. The locking means 5 is partially fixed, or substantially fixed, relative to the outer panel 12 when the opening 10 is in normal condition, i.e., 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 path of movement of the latter.

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

[0060] According to a first 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 cross-shaped 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 area 14 of the opening 10. By "central area 14" is understood to be an area of ​​the opening 10 centered on a midpoint of the opening 10, said midpoint 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 locking means 5 is arranged transversely to the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6, for example, so as to form an angle [3] between 90 and 145° relative to the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6. The locking means 5 passes through the central area 14 of the opening 10. The first end 55a of the locking means 5 is fixed to the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6. According to some embodiments, the first end 55a of the locking means 5 is welded, riveted, screwed, and / or bonded to the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6. The locking 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 locking means 5 is fixed at least via a portion 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, the anti-intrusion reinforcement 6 includes a reinforcing edge 61, in particular central, suitable for forming a stop for the blocking means 5 along one direction of the first direction 100.

[0062] According to a second embodiment of the attachment of the first end 55a, illustrated by dotted lines in [Fig. 2], the first end 55a of the locking means 5 is fixed to a first intermediate portion of the casing 11 located between the inner panel 13 and the outer panel 12, for example, on a thickness or a crimp of the casing 11. Similar to what has been described above, the locking means 5 is then arranged so as to pass through the central area 14 of the opening and extends from front to back. Such an alternative can be implemented, for example, 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 described above, the first end 55a can be welded, riveted, screwed and / or glued.

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

[0065] The lock reinforcement 7 is a part used to reinforce the rigidity and / or the holding power of the lock 3, particularly in relation to the inner panel 13. For example, as illustrated, the lock reinforcement 7 is located at the rear of the housing 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 type as that used in the manufacture of the housing 11.

[0066] For example, the lock 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 lock 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, towards the outer panel 12 and the locking means 5. The second end 55b of the locking means 5 is at least partially fixed to the lock reinforcement 7. In particular, only the base 51 is fixed to the lock reinforcement 7. The lock reinforcement 7 is dimensioned and shaped so as not to impede the movement of the body 52 of the locking means 5 towards the lever 31, in particular movement along the second direction 200, in the event of an impact deforming the outer panel 12.

[0067] According to an optional but preferred embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.6] or 7, the lock reinforcement 7 includes a fixing appendage 73 of the fixing means. The fastening appendage 73 is supported by the "L"-shaped structure, here by the second side 72, and includes 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 fastening appendage 73 includes 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 the fixing appendage 73, is adapted to allow 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 play 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 embodiment of the attachment of the second end 55b, not shown, the second end 55b of the locking means 5 is attached to the second intermediate part of the box 11 located between the inner panel 13 and the outer panel 12 and opposite the first intermediate part, for example on the thickness or the crimp of the box 11. Similar to what has been described above, the second end 55b can be welded, riveted or glued.

[0069] The locking means 5 is thus arranged so as to be fixed at least at the first end 55a and the second end 55b, in particular at least by means of a portion of the base 51 of the locking means 5 included at said ends. It is understood that the various fixing alternatives for 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 deformation 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, located at the central zone 14 of the opening 10. As indicated above, the "central zone 14" is here referred to as the area of ​​the opening 10 centered on a midpoint of the opening 10, said midpoint 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 midpoint 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 considered direction, here the first direction 100, whose radius 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 outer panel 12. For example, as illustrated, the opening 10 includes an adhesive or sealant 81 having structural functions, i.e. adhesive functions, allowing at least a portion of the base 51, of the first portion 53 and / or of the second portion 54, to be fixed to the outer 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 described above for each of said ends, while all or part of the base 51 of the locking means 5 located between the first end 55a and the second end 55b is floating relative to the outer panel 12, i.e., disposed at a non-zero distance from the outer panel 12. Preferably, in such an alternative, the opening 10 includes a damping element 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 element 82 is then disposed 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 element 82 is a shim or a closed-cell foam, which notably helps to prevent water retention.

[0073] Optionally, the opening 10 may include at least one damping foam 83, suitable for reducing vibration generation at the level of the part of the body 52 included in the second portion 54 of the locking means 5, which is floating relative to the base 51. The damping foam 83 is disposed in at least one cutout 56, over all or part of its length. The same applies when the locking means 5 includes a plurality of cutouts 56. Also, the damping foam 83 extends partially into the recess 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 outer panel 12.Such an arrangement advantageously prevents the generation of noise due to vibrations of the blocking means 5 relative to the outer panel 12, particularly 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 axis of rotation 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 to a non-zero distance from a free end of the lever 31.

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

[0076] For an impacting 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 displaced concomitantly with the outer panel 12, by 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 area 57, and the portion of the base 51 included in the second portion 54 is carried along by the deformation of the outer panel 12 so that it is partially inclined relative to the portion of the base 51 included in the first portion 53. Since the portion of the body 52 included in the second portion 54 is free-floating relative to the base 51, said portion of the body 52 remains aligned, or substantially aligned, with the portion 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 along its entire length. The portion of the body 52 included in the second portion 54 is then displaced along the second direction 200 similarly to the first portion 53 of the locking means 5 due to the displacement of the outer panel 12.The body 52 is then positioned across the path of the lever 31 and acts as a stop 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, particularly near the rest position. The locking means 5 quickly interrupts the movement of the lever 31. Unintentional opening of the lock 3, and consequently of the door 10, is prevented, despite the various factors or parasitic phenomena generated by the impact.

[0078] The stop area with the lever 31 can be contained within different parts of the body 52 depending on the embodiment implemented. For example, the stop area is contained within the first wall 52a, the second wall 52b, and / or the intermediate wall 52c when the body 52 has a U-shaped structure and depending on the type of transmission device 4 used. Alternatively, the stop area is contained within the extension lug 58 as described above.

[0079] When the impactor element 15 strikes the rear part of the opening 10, including here 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 path of the lever 31.

[0080] The present invention thus proposes an opening comprising a locking means Mounted directly and / or indirectly on an exterior panel of the opening, this locking device is adapted to various impact situations and ensures occupant protection by holding the opening in the closed position, regardless of the area of ​​the opening impacted. The locking mechanism can be advantageously applied to a wide variety of openings. While the solution is particularly well-suited for side impacts on hinged or sliding side doors, especially rear side doors, it can also be applied to the tailgate of a commercial vehicle.

[0081] The present invention cannot, however, be limited to the means and configurations described and illustrated herein 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 this document.

Claims

Demands

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 of the opening (10), the opening (10) further comprising a means of blocking (5) the movement of the lever (31), elongated, extending along a first direction (100) and comprising: - a base (51) at least in a flat part 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) comprising respectively a first end (55a) and a second end (55b) of the locking means (5) opposite each other along the first direction (100), the second portion (54) being disposed near the lock (3) and comprising at least one cutout (56) interposed between the base (51) and at least a portion of the body (52) and extending from the second end (55b) to a folding area (57) of the locking means (5) such that at least a portion of the body (52) included in the second portion (54) is free to float relative to a portion of the base (51) of the second portion (54) and is capable of extending in a path of the lever (31) included 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) made along of at least a second direction (200) transverse to the first direction (100).;

2. Opening (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the body (52) of the locking means (5) comprises a "U"-shaped 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 any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - the opening (10) further comprises a lock reinforcement (7), fixed to the inner panel (13), the second end (55b) of the locking means (5) being fixed to the lock reinforcement (7); or - the second end (55b) of the locking means (5) is fixed to a intermediate part of the box (11) included between the inner panel (13) and the outer panel (12).

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

5. Opening (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a central zone (14) centered on a midpoint of the opening (10), defined along at least one direction, in particular the first direction (100), and extending over a distance, relative to the midpoint 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 any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - the locking means (5) extends at least partially opposite the lever (31) along the second direction (200); or - the locking means (5) comprises an extension tab (58), extending at least partially opposite the lever (31) along the second direction (200).

7. Opening (10) any 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 any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - sealant (81) disposed between at least a part of the base (51) and the outer panel (12); and / or - damping foam (83), disposed at at least one of the cutouts (56).

9. A locking means (5) for an opening according to any 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 outward from the base (51); - a first portion (53) and a second portion (54) comprising respectively 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 area (57) of the locking means (5) such 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 any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or a locking means (5) according to claim 9.

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