SLIDE FOR A MOVABLE WINDOW FRAME OF A VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SAME

Abstract

Slide (1) for a movable window frame (12) of a vehicle, this slide comprising at least first and second profiles (2, 3) each comprising at least one sealing lip (222-228, 262, 264) and connected to each other in a secant manner by at least one connecting portion (4), the first profile (2) comprising an appearance finishing coating (24) which comprises at least one finish chosen from a gloss, a coloring and a surface condition, in which the first profile (2) is formed by co-extrusion with said appearance finishing coating (24), the second profile (3) is formed by co-extrusion, said at least one connecting portion (4) is formed by an overmolding material, and the slide comprises an appearance finishing end piece (5) which is located at at least one longitudinal end (22a, 22b) of the first profile (2) and of the coating (24). Figure for abstract: Figure 5

Description

Title of the invention: SLIDE FOR A MOVABLE WINDOW FRAME OF A VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR MAKING SAME BRICATION Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of vehicles, for example automobiles. More particularly, the present invention relates to a slide for a movable window frame of a vehicle, and a method of manufacturing such a slide. Technical background

[0002] It is known that a motor vehicle comprises several doors each equipped with a lower box and an upper frame. The upper frame, also designated by the term "window frame", is intended to receive a movable (or sliding) window of the vehicle. Each door comprises a slide having a part located in the lower box and a part extending at the level of the window frame, in particular around this window frame. This slide makes it possible to guide the movable window which slides in the door and also ensures a seal between the door and the movable window.

[0003] The slide generally comprises a first horizontal upper profile (or segment) and two vertical profiles, respectively, second and third, connected to each other by the first profile. The slide then has a general inverted U shape. This shape can however be more complex, in particular if the slide is connected to a fixed window. Each of the profiles comprises at least one sealing lip.

[0004] The door may also comprise at least one appearance finishing covering which extends along one of the profiles, in particular the first profile, and an appearance finishing end piece located at a longitudinal end of this covering. The appearance finishing covering is generally formed by a trim which is attached to the profile and comprises an aesthetic visible surface, for example typically chrome, brushed or glossy black.

[0005] There are various ways of producing such a slide for a movable window frame. One example of an embodiment consists of separately forming two profiles, then, if necessary, shaping it or them by thermoforming to adjust it or them to the shape of the window frame. Then, the profiles are placed in a mold and a connecting portion is formed by injection molding so as to connect the profiles together. The trim forming the appearance finishing covering is added and fixed to one of the profiles after mounting the slide. Finally, the appearance finishing end piece is mounted at the longitudinal end of the profile.

[0006] However, the production of such a slide of the prior art and the assembly of this Slides in the vehicle can be complex, expensive and time-consuming. Indeed, the particular shape of the U-shaped slide requires the profiles to be deformed during assembly and forces the use of flexible or deformable materials. However, the trim and the finishing end cap are generally made of rigid material (typically metal). They are therefore mounted on one of the profiles at the end of the slide assembly. This adds additional steps to the door assembly and therefore additional assembly complexity.

[0007] In the case where the finishing coating is formed directly on the trim, for example by painting, the deformation of the profiles during assembly could generate cracks in the coating and thus damage it. In addition, these cracks may be visible and thus also alter the aesthetic appearance of the slide.

[0008] In addition, certain parts of the slide (for example the appearance finishing end piece) are not particularly aesthetic and may alter the overall aesthetics of the vehicle.

[0009] In this context, it is interesting to overcome at least some of the drawbacks of the prior art, by proposing a slide for a movable window frame of a vehicle which is more aesthetic and easy to produce and assemble. Summary of the invention

[0010] The present invention provides a simple, effective, economical and aesthetic solution to at least some of the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0011] For this purpose, the invention relates to a slide for a movable window frame of a vehicle, this slide comprising at least first and second profiles each comprising at least one sealing lip and connected to each other in a secant manner by at least one connecting portion, said first profile comprising an appearance finishing coating which extends along this first profile and which comprises at least one finish chosen from a gloss, a matt finish, a coloring and a surface condition different from that of the rest of the profile.

[0012] According to the invention, the first profile is formed by co-extrusion with said appearance finishing coating; the second profile is formed by co-extrusion; and said at least one connecting portion is formed by an overmolding material.

[0013] According to the invention, the slide comprises at least one appearance finishing end piece which is located at at least one longitudinal end of said first profile and of said appearance finishing coating, this end piece having at least one finish identical to that of said appearance finishing coating.

[0014] The method according to the invention generally makes it possible to simplify and make easier the production of the slide and its assembly in the vehicle, while improving its aesthetic appearance. To this end, the invention proposes, on the one hand, to co-extrude the first profile and the appearance finishing coating in a single piece, and on the other hand, to obtain by overmolding (or molding) the connecting portion secured in a single piece with the first and second profiles in a manufacturing mold. The co-extrusion and overmolding steps of the method of the invention make it possible to form the slide in a simple and rapid manner in a single piece. This makes it possible to avoid carrying out additional steps (for example, assembling the appearance finishing coating on the first profile, thermoforming the profiles, etc.) and to reduce production costs.

[0015] In addition, producing the end piece in a finish identical to the coating of the first profile makes it possible to reinforce the aesthetic finish of the slide.

[0016] Thus, the slide significantly improves the overall aesthetics of the vehicle.

[0017] In the present application, the term "secant connection" means the fact that two profiles intersect at a point, called an intersection. For this, the first profile extends along a longitudinal axis and the second profile extends along an elongation axis which is substantially perpendicular (or inclined) to the longitudinal axis of the first profile. These first and second profiles are connected to each other by the connection portion which is located at the point of intersection (or otherwise said meeting between the first and second profiles).

[0018] Advantageously, the appearance finishing tip and the appearance finishing coating comprise a material free of metallic particles, and have a gloss greater than or equal to 70UB at 60° and / or a flexural modulus of between 200 and 3000 MPa at room temperature. The flexural modulus of between 700 and 3000 MPa has several advantages, such as ensuring abrasion resistance of the coating and providing flexibility to the coating to prevent any cracking / breaking of the coating when mounting the slide on a frame with a significant curvature (from 150mm).

[0019] The slide according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation from one another or in combination with one another:

[0020] - the appearance finishing tip and the appearance finishing coating comprise a material free of metallic particles, and have a mattness less than or equal to 10UB at 60° and / or a flexural modulus between 200 and 500MPa at room temperature;

[0021] - the appearance finishing tip and the appearance finishing coating comprise a material free of metallic particles, with an AE color difference of the Lab type less than 15; preferably this AE difference is less than 7; more preferably this AE difference is less than 5; even more preferably this AE difference is less than 2;

[0022] - the appearance finishing coating covers a middle portion of a long portion horizontal U-shaped section of the first profile, and possibly a side wall of this middle portion or a side arm which extends in the extension of the middle portion;

[0023] — said middle portion and said side wall are made from poly- propylene;

[0024] — the arm is made from polypropylene;

[0025] - said appearance finishing tip covers an edge of said finishing coating of appearance;

[0026] - that said finishing end piece is added or formed by overmolding a appearance material;

[0027] - said finishing appearance coating, or even said finishing appearance tip, comprises an appearance finishing material based on polypropylene, thermoplastic styrenic polyolefin (TPS), vulcanized thermoplastic (TPV), thermoplastic styrenic elastomer (TPES) or thermoplastic vulcanized elastomer (TPEV), and / or may comprise at least one nucleating agent in a proportion of 0.01 to 5% by weight;

[0028] - the overmolding material is chosen from a styrenic thermoplastic (TPS), vulcanized thermoplastic (TPV), styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPES) and a vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer (TPEV);

[0029] - the slide is, preferably entirely, made of recyclable materials polypropylene base.

[0030] As regards the nucleating agent, it makes it possible to obtain a particularly aesthetic finish, and in particular an improved shine compared to a plastic material devoid of nucleating agent.

[0031] The invention further relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising at least one slide according to the invention.

[0032] The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a slide according to one of the features of the invention. The method comprises the following steps: (a) producing the first and second profiles independently of one another by coextrusion, each of the first and second profiles comprising at least one sealing lip, the first profile comprising said finishing appearance coating which is co-extruded with the rest of this first profile, (b) positioning the first and second profiles in a mold, (c) injecting an overmolding material into the mold to form said at least one connecting portion of said first and second profiles, and (d) forming or mounting the appearance finishing tip on said long end tudinal of said first profile and of said finishing coating, step (d) being carried out before step (b), after step (c), or simultaneously with step (c).

[0033] According to a first example of embodiment of the method, step (d) of forming the appearance finishing tip can be carried out after step (c) by overmolding.

[0034] According to a second exemplary embodiment of the method, step (d) of forming the appearance finishing tip is carried out before step (b) by overmolding in a mold different from that used for step (c) of injecting the overmolding material.

[0035] According to a third example, step (d) of forming the appearance finishing tip can be carried out before step (b) or after step (c), the tip being previously produced by injection molding.

[0036] According to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the method, steps (c) and (d) can be carried out simultaneously by bi-injection of the overmolding material to form the at least one connecting portion, and of an appearance material to form said end piece. Brief description of the figures

[0037] The invention will be better understood and other details, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description given by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0038] [Fig.l] is a schematic view of an exterior side of a door of a motor vehicle comprising a window frame provided with a slide according to the invention,

[0039] [Fig.2] is a partial schematic view of an exterior side of the slide of [Fig.l],

[0040] [Fig.3] is a schematic sectional view along a plane II-II of the slide of the window frame of [Fig.2],

[0041] [Fig.4] is a schematic sectional view along plane II-II of a variant of the slide of the window frame of [Fig.2],

[0042] [Fig.5] is an enlarged schematic view of the slide of [Fig.2] comprising an appearance finishing end piece according to a first embodiment;

[0043] [Fig.6] is a schematic top and perspective view of [Fig.5];

[0044] [Fig.7] is a schematic side and perspective view of [Fig.5] or 6;

[0045] [Fig.8] is a schematic perspective and partial view of the slide of the [Fig.2] with the finishing end piece according to a second embodiment;

[0046] [Fig.9] is a block diagram of a method of manufacturing the slide of the invention;

[0047] [Fig. 10] is a block diagram of a first variant of the method of manufacturing the slide of the invention;

[0048] [Fig. 11] is a block diagram of a second variant of the manufacturing process from behind the scenes of invention.

[0049] Elements having the same functions in different implementations have the same references in the figures. Detailed description of the invention

[0050] By convention, in the description below, the terms "longitudinal" and "axial" qualify the orientation of structural elements extending in the direction of a longitudinal axis. The terms "radial" or "vertical" qualify an orientation of structural elements extending in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The term "lateral" means a structural element extending on one side, for example, of the longitudinal axis.

[0051] The present invention applies generally to a vehicle, for example an automobile. The vehicle may comprise at least one movable window frame provided with at least one slide.

[0052] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an example of a door 10 of a vehicle 100 and its slide 1. The door 10 can extend along a longitudinal axis X (represented in a horizontal direction in the figures) and an elongation axis Y (represented in a vertical direction in the figures) which is substantially perpendicular to the axis X. This door 10 is divided into a first upper part (relative to the axis Y) forming a window frame 12 and a second lower part (relative to the axis Y) forming a lower box 14.

[0053] The box 14 may comprise a first interior panel 14a (relative to the interior of the vehicle) and a first exterior panel 14b (relative to the exterior of the vehicle). These first interior and exterior panels 14a, 14b are configured to house at least a portion of a window 16 of the door 10. This window 16 is movable (or sliding) from top to bottom, and vice versa. The first interior and exterior panels 14a, 14b may be made from a steel sheet or any other suitable material.

[0054] The window frame 12 may function as a frame holding at least one peripheral edge 16a of the window 16 when it is in the high position. The window frame 12 comprises a window opening 160, and the window 16 is configured to cover or uncover this opening 160 respectively in its high and low positions.

[0055] The window frame 12 may comprise second inner 12a and outer 12b panels, as illustrated by way of example in [Fig. 3]. The second inner and outer panels 12a, 12b may be made from a steel sheet or any other suitable material. These second inner and outer panels 12a, 12b make it possible to form a support for mounting a slide 1.

[0056] As described previously, the slide 1 has a part located in the box 14 and a portion extending around the window frame 12.

[0057] The slide 1 according to the invention will now be described with reference to figures 1 to 7. This slide 1 makes it possible to guide the window 16 to slide in the door 10 and to ensure a seal between the door 10 and the window 16.

[0058] The slide 1 may have a general U, V or L shape.

[0059] The slide 1 comprises at least first 2 and second 3 profiles connected to each other in a secant manner by at least one connecting portion 4. Each of the first 2 and second 3 profiles comprises at least one sealing lip 222-228, 262, 264.

[0060] The first profile 2 may extend longitudinally along the axis X. The first profile 2 may comprise a longitudinal portion 22.

[0061] The longitudinal portion 22 may comprise first 22a and second 22b longitudinal ends opposite one another. Thus, the longitudinal portion 22 may extend between the first 22a and second 22b longitudinal ends in a single piece and in one piece (i.e., made of one piece). The longitudinal portion 22 may be curved, in particular in a regular manner from one end to the other. The second longitudinal end 22b may be inclined relative to the first 22a longitudinal end, for example radially towards the body 14 of the door (relative to the Y axis).

[0062] With reference to Figures 3 and 4, the longitudinal portion 22 may comprise first 222 and second 224 sealing lips, called upper lips. These first 222 and second 224 upper lips may extend in radial projection and along the longitudinal portion 22 and the axis X. The first 222 and second 224 upper lips may be parallel to each other. The first 222 and second 224 upper lips may be configured to be in contact with a bodywork element C of the vehicle 100 when the door 10 is in the closed position.

[0063] The longitudinal portion 22 may comprise first 226 and second 228 sealing lips, called intermediate lips. These first 226 and second 228 intermediate lips may extend radially and along the longitudinal portion 22 and the axis X. In the example of [Fig. 3], the first 226 intermediate lip may extend substantially perpendicular to the second 228 intermediate lip. In the example of [Fig. 4], the second 228 intermediate lip may be inclined relative to the second first 226 intermediate lip. The first 226 and second 228 intermediate lips may be configured to be in contact with at least a portion of the window 16 when this window 16 completely covers the opening 160.

[0064] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate in a non-limiting manner other sealing lips of the first profile 2 to make the slide 1 watertight relative to the elements of the window frame 12. For example, the longitudinal portion 22 may comprise sealing lips 229, called lower (relative to the Y axis). These sealing lips in lower 229 may be two in number in the example of figures 3 and 4. The lower sealing lips 229 may extend in radial projection, for example towards the bodywork C (relative to the axis Y), and along the longitudinal portion 22. The lower sealing lips 229 may be configured to be in contact with at least a portion of the window 16 when this window 16 completely covers the opening 160.

[0065] The upper lips 222, 224, intermediate lips 226, 228 and lower lips 229 thus ensure the sealing, respectively, of the bodywork element C and the window 16. At least one of the upper lips 222, 224, intermediate lips 226, 228 and lower lips 229 may be formed in a single piece with the longitudinal portion 22. In the example of [Fig. 3], all of the sealing lips 222-229 are formed in a single piece with the longitudinal portion 22.

[0066] With reference to [Fig.2], the longitudinal portion 22 may comprise an intermediate segment 22c connecting at least a portion of the first and second segments of the longitudinal portion 22 to each other, for example by a fastener 4c. The first and second segments comprise, respectively, the first 22a and second 22b longitudinal ends.

[0067] The attachment 4c and the connecting portion 4 may be made of the same material (namely a so-called overmolding material described below). As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the longitudinal portion 22 of the first profile 2 may have a U-shaped main section. This longitudinal portion 22 with U-shaped section may comprise a middle portion 21, called the longitudinal body. This middle portion 21 may be covered with an appearance finishing coating 24. The middle portion 21 may comprise an internal cavity 210 for receiving, for example, the outer and inner panels 12a, 12b.

[0068] In particular, the middle portion 21 may comprise at least one upper wall 21a, one lower wall 21b and one side wall 21c connecting the upper 21a and lower 21b walls together. The side wall 21c may extend in the extension of the middle portion 21. The walls 21a, 21b, 21c extend along the axis X. The walls 21a, 21, 21c may be formed in one piece with the middle portion 21. The upper wall 21a may be connected to the upper sealing lips 222, 224, the lower wall 21b may be connected to the intermediate sealing lips 226, 228 and the side wall 21c may be at the level of the appearance finishing coating 24 of the first profile 2. More particularly, the coating 24 may cover the side wall 21c.

[0069] The side wall 21c may be extended by an arm 21d. This arm 21 may extend radially towards the second intermediate lip 228 under the covering 24. In other words, the arm 21d may be interposed between the second intermediate lip 228 and coating 24.

[0070] The middle portion 21, and possibly the arm 21d, can be made from polypropylene. Thus, the walls 21a, 21b, 21c can be made from polypropylene.

[0071] Advantageously, the middle portion 21 can be reinforced by a metal core 21e or by fillers such as talc or fiberglass ([Fig.4]). The side wall 21c and the arm 21d can form a rigid support intended to receive the coating 24 in a robust manner without risk of buckling.

[0072] The first profile 2 therefore comprises the appearance finishing coating 24 which extends along this first profile 2. More particularly, the coating 24 extends along the longitudinal portion 22 (namely between these first 22a and second 22b longitudinal ends). In the example of [Fig.2], the coating 24 extends substantially in the center of the longitudinal portion 22. In other words, the coating 24 can separate the longitudinal portion 22 into two radially internal and external pieces (relative to the Y axis).

[0073] The covering 24 may comprise a third and / or a fourth longitudinal ends located at the first longitudinal end 22a and the second longitudinal end 22b. These third and / or fourth longitudinal ends may comprise a free edge 24a, 24b. One of the edges 24b may have an opening opening into the internal cavity 210 of the slide.

[0074] Preferably, the appearance finishing coating 24 may be made of a material different from that of the first profile 2, in particular the longitudinal portion 22. The coating 24 comprises an aesthetic / decorative visible surface. For this, the coating 24 comprises at least one finish chosen from a gloss, a matt finish, a coloring and a surface condition which is different from the rest (in particular the profiles 2, 3, 6). The coloring of the coating 24 may be chosen from a chrome, brushed metal, blue, red, gold or glossy black coloring for example.

[0075] The surface condition of the coating 24 may be rough, which may be obtained by graining or sandblasting, or have a satin texture.

[0076] The coating 24 may comprise a material devoid of metallic particles.

[0077] The gloss of the coating 24 may be greater than or equal to 70 UB (abbreviation for Gloss Unit) at 60°. For example, the gloss may be measured according to ISO 2813.

[0078] The mattness of the coating 24 may be less than or equal to 10 UB at 60°. For example, the mattness may also be measured in gloss units and according to the ISO 2813 standard.

[0079] “Matteness” means the visual appearance of the coating which is very low gloss or even without gloss.

[0080] Advantageously, the coating 24 may have a flexural modulus of between 200 to 3000 MPa at room temperature (for example between 18 and 24°C and in particular at 23°C). As mentioned above, the flexural modulus of the coating 24 provides abrasion resistance and provides a certain flexibility for integration without cracking / breaking.

[0081] The coating 24 with a gloss greater than or equal to 70 UB at 60° may have a flexural modulus of between 200 and 3000 MPa at room temperature.

[0082] The coating 24 with a mattness less than or equal to 10 UB at 60° may have a flexural modulus of between 200 and 500 MPa at room temperature.

[0083] For example, the coating 24 may be made from polypropylene, polyolefin, thermoplastic styrene (TPS), vulcanized thermoplastic (TPV), thermoplastic styrene elastomer (TPES) or thermoplastic vulcanized elastomer (TPEV). These materials make it possible to provide flexibility (or deformability) to the finish coating to facilitate the assembly of the slide without damaging this coating. The coating 24 may comprise at least one nucleating agent such as Sorbitol. The nucleating agent may be in a proportion of 0.01 to 5% by weight.

[0084] The coating 24 may have a Lab type AE color difference of less than 15.

[0085] The color difference AE is a measure of the difference between two colors. The formula calculation of the AE gap can be: • pr T*\2 . ( * which (L* ; -, b^ and (L* ; ® i ; b?) are color space parameters for two different colors.

[0086] Advantageously, the parameter L* can have a deviation AL (or L2 - L] OR L2 1) between 1 and 5, preferably between 1 and 3; the parameter a* can have a deviation A a (or a? - O] or a'^ between 0.5 and 3 and the parameter b* can have a deviation A b (or b^-b( or Kj between 0.5 and 3.

[0087] Preferably, the deviation AE may be less than 7. In this configuration, the deviation AL may be approximately 5, the deviation A a may be approximately 3 and the deviation A b may be approximately 3.

[0088] More preferably, the deviation AE may be less than 5. In this configuration, the deviation AL may be approximately 3, the deviation A a may be approximately 3 and the deviation A b may be approximately 3.

[0089] Even more preferably, the deviation AE can be less than 2.

[0090] The color deviation AE of the Lab type of the coating 24 can be compared to the coloring of the appearance finishing tip 5.

[0091] The second profile 3 can extend substantially radially along the Y axis.

[0092] The second profile 3 may comprise first 3a and second 3b radial ends opposite each other. Thus, the second profile 3 may extend between the first 3a and second 3b radial ends. With reference to [Fig.5], the first radial end 3a may be divided into two end pieces, respectively, first 32a and second 36a. The first radial end 3a may be connected in a secant manner to the first profile 2, in particular on the first 22a longitudinal end.

[0093] The slide 1 can thus have the general shape of an L or V when the first and second profiles 2, 3 are connected to each other. The second radial end 32 can be inserted into the lower box 14 of the door.

[0094] In particular, the slide 1 comprises a first connecting portion 42 configured to connect the first 2 and second 3 profiles. More particularly, the first portion 42 is configured to connect the first radial end 3a to the first longitudinal end 22a. This first portion 42 may be located at the end of the first profile 2 and / or the second profile 3, it thus forms a connecting end portion 4a.

[0095] With reference to [Fig.5], the first portion 42 may therefore comprise the end portion 4a making it possible to connect the first end end 32a to the longitudinal portion 22 (in particular to the first longitudinal end 22a). The first portion 42 may also comprise a curved connecting portion 4b. This curved portion 4b is configured to connect the second end end 36a to the longitudinal portion 22 (in particular to the first longitudinal end 22a).

[0096] The slide 1 may comprise a third profile 6 also connected in a secant manner to the first profile 2. The third profile 6 may extend substantially along the Y axis. The third profile 6 may extend substantially parallel to the second profile 3, so as to form the U-shape of the slide 1.

[0097] The third profile 6 may comprise third 6a and fourth 6b radial ends opposite one another. The third radial end 6a may be connected in a secant manner to the first profile 2, in particular at the level of the second 22b longitudinal end ([Fig.2]). The fourth radial end 6b may be connected to the door box 14.

[0098] In particular, the slide 1 may comprise a second connecting portion 44 configured to connect the first 2 and third 6 profiles. More particularly, the second portion 44 is configured to connect the third radial end 6a to the second 22b longitudinal end. This second portion 44 may be at the end of the first profile 2 and / or the third profile 6 and thus form a connecting end portion 4a.

[0099] One of the particularities of the invention for simplifying the manufacture and assembly of the slide 1 is that: - the coating 24 and the first profile 2 are formed in one piece by co-extrusion, - the second profile 3 (and / or the third profile 6) is formed by co-extrusion, - one or more of the connecting portions 4, 4a, 4b is / are formed by an overmolding material, and - the slide 1 comprises at least one end piece 5, 5a, 5b for finishing the appearance.

[0100] In particular, the longitudinal portion 22 is co-extruded with the coating 24 so as to form the first profile 2 in one piece. This makes it possible to simplify the production and assembly of the slide 1 and thus reduce production costs.

[0101] The second profile 3 (and / or the third profile 6) is also produced by extrusion, so as to standardize and simplify the production of the slide.

[0102] The term “co-extrusion” means at least two elements, for example of different textures and / or functions, which are extruded together and simultaneously to form a single piece in one piece. In the case of the first profile 3, the longitudinal portion 22 may have a texture and also a function (namely sealing) different from those of the appearance finishing coating 24.

[0103] The connecting portion 4, whether end 4a or curved 4b, may be formed by overmolding (or molding). The overmolding material is chosen from a styrenic thermoplastic (TPS), vulcanized thermoplastic (TPV), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPES) and a vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer (TPEV). The vulcanized thermoplastic may comprise polypropylene (PP) and / or ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM). The styrenic thermoplastic may comprise poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene) (SBS).

[0104] The end piece 5 is located at the first longitudinal end 22a and / or the second longitudinal end 22b of the first profile and of the covering 24 (in particular at the level of at least one of the longitudinal ends of the covering 24). [Fig.2] illustrates in a non-limiting manner two end pieces 5, 5a, 5b on the slide 1.

[0105] Advantageously, a first end piece 5a can cover the edge 24a of the covering 24, and / or a second end piece 5b can cover the edge 24b of the covering 24. The end piece 5, 5a, 5b makes it possible in particular to laterally close at least a part of the first profile 2 (in particular the internal cavity 210 at the edge 24a, 24b).

[0106] Preferably, the end piece 5 may be made of a material different from that of the rest of the profile (2, 3, 6), in particular the longitudinal portion 22. The end piece 5 has an aesthetic / decorative visible surface. The end piece 5 may have at least one finish identical to that of the appearance finishing coating 24, chosen from a gloss, a matt finish, a coloring and a surface condition.

[0107] The tip 5 can thus have a coloring chosen from a chrome, brushed metal or glossy black coloring for example.

[0108] The tip 5 may comprise a material free of metal particles.

[0109] The tip 5 may have a brightness greater than or equal to 60UB measured at 60°.

[0110] The mattness of the tip 5 may be less than or equal to 10 UB at 60°.

[0111] Advantageously, the tip 5 may have a flexural modulus of between 200 and 3000 MPa at room temperature. For example, the tip 5 having a gloss greater than or equal to 70 UB at 60° may have a flexural modulus of between 200 and 3000 MPa at room temperature. The tip 5 having a mattness less than or equal to 10 UB at 60° may have a flexural modulus of between 200 and 500 MPa at room temperature.

[0112] The tip 5 may have a surface condition which may be rough, which may be obtained by graining or sandblasting, or a satin texture.

[0113] The tip 5 can be made of a single material or of two materials.

[0114] The end piece 5 can be added ([Fig.8]) in particular to the first profile 2 (in particular on the first longitudinal end 22a and the appearance finishing coating 24), or be formed ([Fig.5] to 7) by overmolding an appearance material. The appearance material may be different from the overmolding material forming the at least one connecting portion 4, 4a, 4b. The appearance material may be based on polypropylene, polyolefin, styrenic thermoplastic (TPS), vulcanized thermoplastic (TPV), styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPES) or vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer (TPEV).

[0115] The tip 5 may comprise at least one nucleating agent such as Sorbitol. The nucleating agent may be in a proportion of 0.01 to 5% by weight.

[0116] The tip 5 may have a Lab-type AE color difference of less than 15. Preferably, this AE difference is less than 7. More preferably, this AE difference is less than 5. Even more preferably, this AE difference is less than 2.

[0117] Advantageously, the slide 1 may be, preferably entirely, composed of recyclable materials based on recycled polypropylene.

[0118] The present application will now describe the various possible integrations of the finishing end piece 5, in particular of the first end piece 5a, in the slide 1 of the invention.

[0119] Figures 5 to 7 illustrate a first non-limiting embodiment of the slide 1 in which the first end piece 5a is formed by overmolding, for example with the appearance material.

[0120] The slide 1 according to the first embodiment comprises at least the first 2 and second 3 profiles, and possibly the third profile 6, as described above. These first 2 and second 3 profiles are connected to each other in a secant manner by at least the connecting portion 4 as described above. This connecting portion 4 may comprise the first connecting portion 42 configured to connect the first 2 and second 3 profiles, and / or the second connecting portion 44 configured to connect the first 2 and third 6 profiles.

[0121] In the example of Figures 5 to 7, the first portion 42 may comprise the connecting end portion 4a. This end portion 4a may comprise at least: - a longitudinal end 422 connected to the longitudinal portion 22 (relative to the X axis), and - a radial end 424 (relative to the Y axis) connected to the longitudinal end 422 and to the first end 22a of the longitudinal portion 22.

[0122] As illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the longitudinal end 422 may extend from the first longitudinal end 22a. More particularly, the longitudinal end 422 may also ensure the sealing of the bodywork element C. For this, the longitudinal end 422 may extend from each of the upper lips 222, 224 of the longitudinal portion 22. For example, the longitudinal end 422 may comprise a first fraction 422a extending from the first upper sealing lip 222 and a second fraction 422b extending from the second upper sealing lip 224.

[0123] As illustrated in the example of Figures 5 to 7, the longitudinal end 422 can also be connected to the first end end 32a of the second profile 3.

[0124] The radial end 424 may extend radially (in particular in the direction of the door body 14) from the longitudinal end 422, as illustrated in [Fig.5] and 7.

[0125] The longitudinal end and the radial end 424 can be formed in one piece, in particular by the overmolding material.

[0126] The first portion 42 may comprise the curved connecting portion 4b. This curved portion 4b may connect the second end piece 36a to the first longitudinal end 22a by at least a portion of the longitudinal end 422.

[0127] In the example of Figures 5 to 7, the first portion 42 can be formed from the end portion 4a (such as the longitudinal 422 and radial 424 ends) and the curved portion 4b. These end portions 4a and curved 4b can be formed in one piece with the first 2 and second 3 profiled by the overmolding material.

[0128] According to the first embodiment, the end piece 5, 5a for finishing the appearance may comprise first 50 and second 52 parts connected together, for example in a single piece. The first part 50 may form the visible external part of the first end piece 5a. The second part 52 may be interposed between the first part 50 and at least a part of the radial end 424.

[0129] The first end piece 5a according to the first embodiment can be made of two materials. The first part 50 can be made with the appearance material which can comprise at least one finish identical to the coating 24 and form the end piece 5 covering the edge 24a of the coating 24. This makes it possible to produce a continuous and uniform finish between the end piece 5, 5a and the coating 24, and thus significantly reinforce the aesthetic appearance of the slide 1. The second part 52 can be made with the appearance material which can be identical to the overmolding material of the first connecting portion 42. This makes it possible to produce the first end piece 5 in one piece and in one piece with the first connecting portion 42, and thus make the integration of this end piece 5, 5a in the slide 1 more robust.

[0130] [Fig.8] illustrates a second non-limiting embodiment of the slide 1 of the invention which differs from the slide 1 of the first embodiment by the end piece 5, 5a, 5b which is injected or attached to the first profile 2. The slide 1 according to the second embodiment comprises at least the first 2 and second 3 profiles, and possibly the third profile 6, as described above. These first 2 and second 3 profiles are connected to each other in a secant manner by at least the connecting portion 4 as described above. This connecting portion 4 may comprise the first connecting portion 42 configured to connect the first 2 and second 3 profiles (not visible in [Fig.8]), and / or the second connecting portion 44 configured to connect the first 2 and third 6 profiles.

[0131] In particular, the first end piece 5a may be a separate part which is assembled on the edge 24a of the covering 24 and at least partly on the first longitudinal end 22a of the first profile. The second end piece 5b may also be a separate part which is assembled on the edge 24b of the covering 24 and at least partly on the second longitudinal end 22b. The second end piece 5b covers the edge 24b in the example of [Fig.8].

[0132] The end piece 5, 5a, 5b of the second embodiment can be made of a single material. The first part 50 can be made with the appearance material. This appearance material can comprise at least one finish identical to that of the appearance finishing coating 24. This also makes it possible to produce a continuous and uniform finish between the end piece 5 and the coating 24, and therefore significantly reinforce the aesthetic appearance of the slide 1.

[0133] The present application will now describe a method of manufacturing the slide 1 of the invention, the successive steps of the method of which are for example summarized in Figures 9 to 11.

[0134] According to the invention, the method comprises the following steps: (a) production of the first and second profiles 2, 3, independently of one another by co-extrusion, (b) positioning the first and second profiles 2, 3 in a mold, (c) injecting the overmolding material into the mold to form at least one connecting portion 4 of the first and second profiles 2, 3, and (d) formation or assembly of the end piece 5 for finishing the appearance on the longitudinal end 22a, 22b of the first profile 2.

[0135] Step (d) can be carried out before step (b), after step (c), or simultaneously with step (c).

[0136] In step (a), each of the first and second profiles 2, 3 comprises at least one of the sealing lips 222-229, as described above. The appearance finishing coating 24 is co-extruded with the rest of the first profile 2.

[0137] In step (b), the mold may comprise several cavities for receiving the first 2 and second 3 profiles and for forming the connecting portion 4 by overmolding. For example, the mold may comprise first and second cavities for receiving, respectively, the first 2 and second 3 profiles, and a third cavity for forming the connecting portion 4. This third cavity is located between the first and second cavities so as to form the first 2 and second 3 intersecting profiles. The third cavity may have the shape of the first connecting portion 42 for connecting the first 2 and second 3 profiles or of the second connecting portion 44 for connecting the first 2 and third 6 profiles.

[0138] With reference to [Fig.9] and according to a first example, the method of manufacturing the slide 1 may comprise in order steps (a) to (d). In this first example, step (d) of forming the end piece 5 for finishing the appearance is carried out after step (c) by overmolding, in a mold different from that used for step (c) of injecting the overmolding material.

[0139] More particularly, the end piece 5 can be formed by overmolding, for example with the appearance material, on at least one of the longitudinal ends 22a, 22b of the first profile 2 and of the appearance finishing coating 24.

[0140] With reference to [Fig. 10] and according to a second exemplary embodiment of the method for manufacturing the slide 1, step (d) of forming the end piece 5 for the appearance finish is carried out before step (b) by overmolding in a mold different from that used for step (c) of injecting the overmolding material. The end piece 5 is formed by overmolding the appearance material.

[0141] [Fig. 10] illustrates this third example which can include the following steps in order: (a) production of the first and second profiles 2, 3, independently of one another by co-extrusion, (d) formation of the end piece 5 for finishing the appearance on the longitudinal end 22a, 22b of the first profile 2, by overmolding (for example with the appearance material) in a first mold, (b) positioning the first and second profiles 2, 3 with the end piece 5 in a second mold, and (c) injecting the overmolding material into the second mold to form at least one connecting portion 4 of the first and second profiles 2, 3.

[0142] According to a third example of embodiment of the method, step (d) of mounting the end piece 5 for finishing the appearance is carried out before step (b) or after step (c), the end piece 5 being previously produced by injection-molding.

[0143] This third example can include the following steps in order: (a) production of the first and second profiles 2, 3, independently of one another by co-extrusion, (d) prior formation of the end piece 5 for finishing the appearance and mounting on the longitudinal end 22a, 22b of the first profile 2, (b) positioning the first and second profiles 2, 3 with the end piece 5 in the mold, and (c) injecting the overmolding material into the mold to form at least one connecting portion 4 of the first and second profiles 2, 3.

[0144] According to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the method, steps (c) and (d) are carried out simultaneously by bi-injection of the overmolding material to form the at least one connecting portion 4, 4a, 4b, and of the appearance material to form the end piece 5.

[0145] [Fig. 11] illustrates this fourth example which can include the following steps in order: (a) production of the first and second profiles 2, 3, independently of one another by co-extrusion, (b) positioning the first and second profiles 2, 3 in the mold, and (c) and (d) bi-injection of the overmolding material into the mold to form the at least one connecting portion 4 of the first and second profiles 2, 3, and of the appearance material to form the appearance finishing end piece 5.

[0146] In the present application, a distinction is made between a single injection and a bi-injection (or otherwise known as multi-injection). A single injection can be defined as an injection of a single material into the mold, whereas a bi-injection can be defined as two injections, generally from two different materials into the same mold.

Claims

Claims

1. Slide (1) for a movable window frame (12) of a vehicle, this slide (1) comprising at least first and second profiles (2, 3) each comprising at least one sealing lip (222-228, 262, 264) and connected to each other in a secant manner by at least one connecting portion (4), said first profile (2) comprising an appearance finishing coating (24) which extends along this first profile (2) and which comprises at least one finish chosen from a gloss, a matt finish, a coloring and a surface condition different from that of the rest of the profile, characterized in that: - the first profile (2) is formed by co-extrusion with said appearance finishing coating (24), - the second profile (3) is formed by co-extrusion, and - said at least one connecting portion (4) is formed by an overmolding material, and in that the slide (1) comprises at least one end piece (5) for finishing appearance which is located at at least one longitudinal end (22a,22b) of said first profile (2) and of said appearance finishing coating (24), this end piece (5) having at least one finish identical to that of said appearance finishing coating (24).,

2. Slide (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the end piece (5) for finishing the appearance and the coating (24) for finishing the appearance comprise a material free of metallic particles, and have a gloss greater than or equal to 70UB at 60° and / or a flexural modulus of between 200 and 3000 MPa at room temperature.

3. Slide (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the end piece (5) for finishing the appearance and the coating (24) for finishing the appearance comprise a material free of metallic particles, and have a mattness less than or equal to 10UB at 60° and / or a flexural modulus of between 200 and 500MPa at room temperature.

4. Slide (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the end piece (5) for finishing the appearance and the coating (24) for finishing the appearance comprise a material free of metallic particles, with a color difference (AE) of the Lab type less than 15; preferably this difference (AE) is less than 7; more preferably this difference (AE) is less than 5; even more preferably this difference (AE) is less than 2.

5. Slide (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the finishing coating (24) covers a middle portion (21) of a longitudinal portion (22) with a U-shaped section of the first profile (2), and possibly a side wall (21c) of this middle portion (21) or a lateral arm (21d) which extends in the extension of the middle portion (21).

6. Slide (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said end piece (5, 5a, 5b) for finishing appearance covers an edge (24a, 24b) of said covering (24) for finishing appearance.

7. Slide (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said end piece (5) for finishing appearance is added or is formed by overmolding an appearance material.

8. Slide (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said appearance finishing coating (24), or even said appearance finishing end piece (5), comprises an appearance finishing material based on polypropylene, thermoplastic styrenic polyolefin (TPS), vulcanized thermoplastic (TPV), thermoplastic styrenic elastomer (TPES) or vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer (TPEV), and / or may comprise at least one nucleating agent in a proportion of 0.01 to 5% by weight.

9. Slide (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the overmolding material is chosen from a styrenic thermoplastic (TPS), vulcanized thermoplastic (TPV), styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (TPES) and a vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer (TPEV).

10. Slide (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it is, preferably entirely, composed of recyclable materials based on polypropylene.

11. Vehicle (100), in particular a motor vehicle, comprising at least one slide (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. A method of manufacturing a slide (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the method comprises the following steps: (a) producing the first and second profiles (2, 3), independently of one another by coextrusion, each of the first and second profiles (2, 3) comprising at least one sealing lip (222-228, 262, 264), the first profile (2) comprising said finishing appearance coating (24) which is co-extruded with the rest of this first profile (2), (b) positioning the first and second profiles (2, 3) in a mold, and (c) injecting an overmolding material into the mold to form said at least one connecting portion (4) of said first and second profiles (2, 3), and (d) forming or mounting the end piece (5) for finishing the appearance on said longitudinal end (22a, 22b) of said first profile (2) and said coating (24) for finishing the appearance, step (d) being carried out before step (b), after step (c), or simultaneously with step (c).

13. Manufacturing method according to claim 12, characterized in that step (d) of forming the end piece (5) for finishing appearance is carried out after step (c) by overmolding, in a mold different from that used for step (c) of injecting the overmolding material.

14. Manufacturing method according to claim 12, characterized in that step (d) of forming the end piece (5) for finishing appearance is carried out before step (b) by overmolding in a mold different from that used for step (c) of injecting the overmolding material.

15. Manufacturing method according to claim 12, characterized in that step (d) of mounting the end piece (5) for finishing appearance is carried out before step b) or after step (c), the end piece being previously produced by injection-molding.

16. Manufacturing method according to claim 12, characterized in that steps (c) and (d) are carried out simultaneously by bi-injection of the overmolding material to form said at least one connecting portion (4), and of an appearance material to form said end piece.

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