Motor vehicle door lock with closing aid and opening aid

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock for a closure element of a motor vehicle, comprising a latch (2) and a pawl system (3). The latch (2) can be adjusted into an open position, a main closing position, and a pre-closing position, which is located between the open position and the main closing position, wherein the latch (2) is in engagement with a closing part, in particular a closing clamp or the like, so as to hold same in the closing positions in the installed state, and the pawl system (3) can be adjusted into a locking state, in which the pawl system (3) holds the latch (2) in the main closing position or the pre-closing position, and an open state, in which the pawl system (3) releases the latch (2). The motor vehicle lock (1) has a release mechanism (4) which, by being actuated, converts the pawl system (3) to the open state, and the motor vehicle lock (1) has an aid mechanism (5) which can be brought into a closing aid state and an opening aid state and which comprises an activation lever (6). An activation movement of the activation lever (6) triggers a closing aid process or an opening aid process on the basis of the state of the aid mechanism (5). According to the invention, the aid mechanism (5) has a closing aid lever (7), the actuation movement of which produces a closing aid process, and an opening aid lever (8), the actuation movement of which produces an opening aid process, said levers being coupled to the activation lever (6) such that the two aid levers (7, 8), driven by the activation movement of the activation lever (6), carry out an actuation movement or an idle stroke movement in an alternating manner on the basis of the state of the aid mechanism (5).

Description

[0001] CAR DOOR LOCK WITH CLOSING AND OPENING AID

[0002] The present invention relates to a motor vehicle lock for a locking element of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0003] The motor vehicle lock in question can be assigned to any locking element of a motor vehicle. The term "locking element" is to be interpreted broadly in this respect. It encompasses, for example, a side door, in particular a front side door, a rear door, a tailgate, a trunk lid, a front hood, a bonnet, or the like. The locking element can be hinged to the body of the motor vehicle in the manner of a pivoting door or a sliding door.

[0004] The known prior art (DE 10 2021 118 349 A1), from which the invention is based, relates to a motor vehicle lock according to the preamble of claim 1. The known motor vehicle lock has a lock latch that can be adjusted to an open position, a main locking position, and a pre-locking position, and a pawl system that holds the lock latch in one of the locking positions or releases it into the open position. In order to transfer the pawl system from a locked state to an open state and thus adjust the lock latch, the known motor vehicle lock has a release mechanism.

[0005] In addition to these components, the known motor vehicle lock has an auxiliary mechanism. Depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism, an auxiliary closing or opening process can be triggered via the auxiliary mechanism by actuating an activation lever of the auxiliary mechanism. During the auxiliary closing process, the auxiliary mechanism moves the lock latch from the pre-locked position to the main locked position. This auxiliary closing process can occur against any door seal forces or the like and thus requires a certain amount of force. During the auxiliary opening process, however, the auxiliary mechanism moves the lock latch from the main locked position toward the open position. This auxiliary opening process can also occur against acting forces, such as the weight of the locking element.Both the locking and opening operations of the auxiliary mechanism thus fulfill convenience functions that make using the vehicle lock more comfortable for an operator.

[0006] Although the well-known vehicle lock functions comfortably and reliably, its structure is complex and, in particular, its auxiliary mechanism is elaborately designed.

[0007] In the known motor vehicle lock, the auxiliary mechanism has a structurally complex coupling mechanism. Depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism, the activation lever is coupled or decoupled with or from the auxiliary opening components, which perform the auxiliary opening process. Coupling and decoupling are achieved, on the one hand, via a movable coupling lever, whose displacement movement is achieved in a comparatively complex structural manner using a transmission gear with a transmission contour, and, on the other hand, via the auxiliary closing components, which perform the auxiliary closing process. Depending on the state, the auxiliary closing components move the lock latch from the pre-locking position to the main locking position or act as a coupling intermediate element between the coupling lever and the auxiliary opening components.This complex structure requires, on the one hand, a large number of components of the motor vehicle lock which interact with each other, and, on the other hand, it also determines the arrangement of the components of the motor vehicle lock in relation to each other within a certain framework.

[0008] Against this background, the invention is based on the problem of designing and developing the known motor vehicle lock in such a way that a motor vehicle lock with an auxiliary locking function and an auxiliary opening function is obtained, which has a comparatively simple structural design.

[0009] The above problem is solved by the features of the characterizing part of claim 1. The essential idea is to simplify the design of the auxiliary mechanism by providing an auxiliary closing lever and an auxiliary opening lever, whose actuating movements can each effect an auxiliary closing process or an auxiliary opening process, respectively, which alternately perform an actuating movement or an idle stroke depending on their state. Thus, it is possible for the auxiliary closing lever to perform an actuating movement in the auxiliary closing state of the auxiliary mechanism, and the auxiliary opening lever to perform an idle stroke, in particular simultaneously, and for the auxiliary opening lever to perform an actuating movement in the auxiliary opening state of the auxiliary mechanism, and for the auxiliary opening lever to perform an actuating movement in the auxiliary closing lever to perform an idle stroke, in particular simultaneously, simultaneously.While in the prior art motor vehicle lock, the auxiliary opening component is coupled and uncoupled from the activation lever depending on the state, the proposed motor vehicle lock provides a constant coupling of the auxiliary closing lever and the auxiliary opening lever to the activation lever. Due to this coupling, an activation movement of the activation lever leads to a movement of the auxiliary closing lever and the auxiliary opening lever regardless of the state, but these perform an actuating movement or an idle stroke depending on the state. In the auxiliary closing state, for example, the auxiliary closing lever performs an actuating movement and the auxiliary opening lever performs an idle stroke, whereas in the auxiliary opening state, the auxiliary closing lever performs an idle stroke and the auxiliary opening lever performs an actuating movement.This reduces the complexity of the vehicle lock, as a complex coupling mechanism between the activation lever and the opening aid components is eliminated. Based on this functional principle, the design of the vehicle lock can be further simplified, for example, by eliminating complex motion transmissions or by allowing the components of the vehicle lock to be arranged relatively freely.

[0010] In particular, it is proposed that the auxiliary mechanism comprises an auxiliary closing lever, the actuating movement of which effects an auxiliary closing process, and an auxiliary opening lever, the actuating movement of which effects an auxiliary opening process, which are coupled to the activation lever in such a way that the two auxiliary levers, driven by the activation movement of the activation lever, alternately perform an actuating movement or an idle stroke depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism.

[0011] An advantageous embodiment according to claim 2 provides for an interaction of the auxiliary closing lever and the auxiliary opening lever with the lock latch during the auxiliary closing process and the auxiliary opening process, respectively. Due to this interaction with the lock latch, both the auxiliary closing process and the auxiliary opening process can be carried out largely independently of any other components that are not associated with the motor vehicle lock, such as a locking part that can be received by the lock latch. This can simplify the structural design of the motor vehicle lock.

[0012] Claim 3 proposes an advantageous embodiment by means of which an interaction, for example the interaction according to claim 2, between the auxiliary closing lever and the auxiliary opening lever with the lock latch can be achieved in a structurally simple and equally functional manner.

[0013] Claim 4 relates to advantageous embodiments of the motor vehicle lock relating to the release mechanism. It is proposed that the release mechanism, via a coupling with the auxiliary mechanism, both transfer the pawl system to the open state and transfer the auxiliary mechanism to the auxiliary opening state. This increases the operational reliability of the motor vehicle lock by preventing any operating errors, such as the triggering of an auxiliary opening process while the lock latch is held by the locking system.

[0014] In claims 5, 6, and 7, the kinematics of the auxiliary closing lever and the auxiliary opening lever are advantageously further developed. A functional kinematics system formed by the levers (claim 5) can determine the movements of the auxiliary levers, in particular in relation to one another. This can increase the operational reliability of the motor vehicle lock, since any incorrect movements of the auxiliary levers, in particular in relation to one another, are avoided. Pivotable auxiliary levers, in particular pivotable about a common pivot axis, can form a structurally simple and functional functional kinematics system. A spring arrangement of the functional kinematics (claim 6) can predetermine an initial position of the auxiliary levers to a certain extent and, in particular, ensure that the auxiliary levers return to the initial position, for example, after they have been actuated. A mutual coupling of the auxiliary levers via a spring element of the spring arrangement enables a kinematic coupling of the auxiliary levers.A stop arrangement formed by the auxiliary levers (claim 7) can also specify the initial position of the auxiliary levers to a certain extent.

[0015] Claim 8 specifies an advantageous embodiment of the motor vehicle lock with a structurally simple yet functional coupling between the release mechanism and the auxiliary mechanism. A coupling lever can define and change the state of the auxiliary mechanism.

[0016] Claims 9 and 10 advantageously further develop the coupling of the auxiliary mechanism and the trigger mechanism. An input guide contour (claim 9), via which the clutch lever can be guided through the trigger mechanism, and an output guide contour (claim 10) can each be implemented cost-effectively and, in particular, in a space-saving manner.

[0017] A kinematically advantageous embodiment of a scissor kinematics formed from the closing auxiliary lever and the opening auxiliary lever is proposed in claim 11.

[0018] In the following, the invention is explained in more detail with reference to a drawing which merely represents exemplary embodiments. In the drawing,

[0019] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation in a) of a locking element to which a proposed motor vehicle lock is assigned, in b) of the proposed motor vehicle lock in a perspective view and in c) of the proposed motor vehicle lock in a plan view,

[0020] Fig. 2 shows the motor vehicle lock according to Fig. 1 b) in plan view; in a) to c) during an auxiliary locking process, starting from a) via b) to c); in d) during an interruption of the auxiliary locking process and

[0021] Fig. 3 the motor vehicle lock according to Fig. 1 b) in plan view during an opening aid process starting from a) via b) to c).

[0022] The figures show a preferred embodiment of a proposed motor vehicle lock 1. As can be seen from Fig. 1a), the motor vehicle lock 1 can be assigned to a locking element of a motor vehicle. The term "locking element" is to be understood broadly, as already described above. In Fig. 1a), the locking element is a front side door.

[0023] The motor vehicle lock 1 initially has a lock latch 2. The lock latch 2 can be adjusted into an open position (Fig. 1b) and 3c)), a main locking position (Fig. 1c)), and a pre-locking position (Fig. 2a)). The pre-locking position is located between the open position and the main locking position of the lock latch 2.

[0024] In the closed positions in the installed state, the lock latch 2 engages with a locking part of the motor vehicle, such as a striker, which is indicated by dashed lines in Fig. 1 b). The lock latch 2 fixes the locking part, whereby the locking element can be held accordingly in its position. The locking part can be arranged either on the locking element, in particular the side door, and the motor vehicle lock 1 on the body or, as indicated by way of example in Fig. 1 a), on the body and the motor vehicle lock 1 accordingly on the locking element, in particular the side door. The motor vehicle lock 1 also has a pawl system 3. The pawl system 3 is defined such that it assumes a pawl function, i.e., locking the lock latch 2 in the pre-locking position and in the main locking position.The pawl system 3 can be adjusted to a locked state and an open state (e.g., Fig. 1b), 2d), 3a), 3b), and 3c). In the locked state, the pawl system 3 holds the lock latch 2 in the main locked position (Fig. 1c)) or the pre-locked position (Fig. 2a)). This prevents the lock latch 2 from unintentionally opening, in the figures by counterclockwise rotation, from the main locked position or the pre-locked position, so that the locking part is fixed, for example. In the opened state, the pawl system 3 releases the lock latch 2. This allows the lock latch 2 to open to release the locking part, i.e., to pivot into the open position.

[0025] To transfer the pawl system 3 between its various positions, the motor vehicle lock 1 further comprises a release mechanism 4. By actuating the release mechanism 4, the pawl system 3 can be transferred to the open state, as can be seen by way of example from the combined view of Figs. 1c) and 2d). The release mechanism 4 can be actuated manually and / or automatically, for example via a drive.

[0026] In addition to the lock latch 2, the pawl system 3, and the release mechanism 4, the motor vehicle lock 1 further comprises an auxiliary mechanism 5. The auxiliary mechanism 5 can assist the opening and closing of the motor vehicle lock 1 by performing an auxiliary closing operation or an auxiliary opening operation. For this purpose, the auxiliary mechanism 5 can be brought into an auxiliary closing state and an auxiliary opening state. The auxiliary mechanism 5 has an activation lever 6, and depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism 5, an activation movement of the activation lever 6 effects the auxiliary closing operation or the auxiliary opening operation. Here, and preferably, both the auxiliary closing operation and the auxiliary opening operation can be effected via the activation movement of the common activation lever 6. The activation lever 6 can be actuated manually and / or automatically, for example via a drive. In Fig.2a) to 2c) illustrate, at least in part, an auxiliary closing process by way of example. The auxiliary mechanism 5 is in the auxiliary closing state. Starting from the pre-locking position of the lock latch 2 (Fig. 2a)), the activation lever 6 is actuated, here and preferably pivoting, resulting in an activation movement of the activation lever 6. The activation movement of the activation lever 6 causes the auxiliary closing process, in which the lock latch 2 is moved via an intermediate position (Fig. 2b)) into the main closing position. Here and preferably, during the auxiliary closing process, the lock latch 2 is temporarily moved beyond a main closing position, in particular into an overtravel (Fig. 2c)). From this position, the lock latch 2 can reach the main locking position (Fig. 1c)), for example by moving the activation lever 6 opposite to the direction of movement indicated by an arrow in Fig. 2a), 2b) and 2c).

[0027] It is essential that the auxiliary mechanism 5 has an auxiliary closing lever 7 and an auxiliary opening lever 8. The auxiliary closing process can be effected by the actuating movement of the auxiliary closing lever 7 with an associated actuating movement path (Fig. 2a) to 2c)). The auxiliary opening process can be effected by the actuating movement of the auxiliary opening lever 8 with a likewise associated actuating movement path (Fig. 3a) to 3c)). It is also essential that the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are coupled to the activation lever 6 in such a way that the two auxiliary levers 7, 8, driven by the activation movement of the activation lever 6, alternately perform an actuating movement or an idle stroke depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism 5.

[0028] The term "alternately" is to be understood here as follows: When the auxiliary mechanism 5 is in the auxiliary closing state, the activation movement of the activation lever 6, with the lock latch 2 in the pre-locking position, causes both an actuating movement of the auxiliary closing lever 7 and an idle stroke of the auxiliary opening lever 8. The actuating movement of the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the idle stroke of the auxiliary opening lever 8 can, in particular, occur simultaneously. However, when the auxiliary mechanism 5 is in the auxiliary opening state, for example, when the auxiliary mechanism 5 has switched from the auxiliary closing state to the auxiliary opening state, the activation movement of the activation lever 6, with the lock latch 2 in the main closed position, causes both an idle stroke of the auxiliary closing lever 7 and an actuating movement of the auxiliary opening lever 8.The actuating movement of the auxiliary opening lever 8 and the idle stroke of the auxiliary closing lever 7 can in particular take place simultaneously.

[0029] This is because the actuating movements of the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are each assigned an actuating movement path and an idle stroke movement path. As long as the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are on their actuating movement paths, an auxiliary closing process or an auxiliary opening process occurs. However, as long as the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are on their idle stroke movement paths, the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 each perform only an idle stroke, without an auxiliary closing process or an auxiliary opening process occurring.

[0030] The actuating movement of the auxiliary closing lever 7 thus triggers an auxiliary closing action, provided the lock latch 2 is in the pre-locking position. The idle stroke of the auxiliary closing lever 7 is ineffective and, in particular, does not trigger an auxiliary closing action. The actuating movement of the auxiliary opening lever 8 triggers an auxiliary opening action, provided the lock latch 2 is in the main closed position. The idle stroke of the auxiliary opening lever 8 is ineffective and, in particular, does not trigger an auxiliary opening action.

[0031] Here and preferably, the actuating movement and / or the idle stroke of the auxiliary closing lever 7 each comprise a sliding movement with a translational component. Here and preferably, the actuating movement and / or the idle stroke of the auxiliary opening lever 8 each comprise a sliding movement with a translational component. The activating movement of the activating lever 6 comprises, in particular exclusively, a rotary movement. The pawl system 3 can fundamentally be designed in different ways as one or more parts. Here and preferably, the pawl system 3 has a pawl that can pivot about a pawl axis to hold the lock latch 2. The pawl can be adjustable between a retracted position and a lifted position. In the locked state of the pawl system 3, the pawl can be in the retracted position, and in the open state, the pawl can be in the lifted position.The lock latch 2 preferably has a locking part receptacle into which the locking part can be received. The pawl preferably engages the lock latch 2 on the same side of the lock latch 2 in the main locking position and the pre-locking position, relative to the locking part receptacle.

[0032] A preferred embodiment of the motor vehicle lock 1 provides that, during the auxiliary closing process, the auxiliary closing lever 7 interacts with the lock latch 2, which is in the pre-locking position, to adjust it in the closing direction. As can be seen, for example, from Figs. 2b) and 2c), the auxiliary closing lever 7 acts on the lock latch 2 during the auxiliary closing process by engaging the lock latch 2 and moving it in the closing direction. In the figures, the closing direction of the lock latch 2 is oriented clockwise.

[0033] In this context, it is provided that during the auxiliary opening process, the auxiliary opening lever 8 interacts with the lock latch 2, which is in the main closed position, to adjust it in the opening direction. As can be seen from Figs. 3b) and 3c), the auxiliary opening lever 8 acts on the lock latch 2 during the auxiliary opening process by engaging the lock latch 2 and moving it in the opening direction. In the figures, the opening direction of the lock latch 2 is oriented counterclockwise. In contrast to the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, it is also conceivable for the auxiliary opening lever 8 to act on the lock latch 2 during the auxiliary opening process by engaging the locking part which is in holding engagement with the lock latch 2.The locking part can be moved by the auxiliary opening lever 8, and the lock latch 2 can thereby be moved in the opening direction. Furthermore, it is preferably conceivable that, during the auxiliary closing process, the auxiliary closing lever 7 interacts with the lock latch 2, which is in the pre-locking position, to adjust it in the closing direction. The auxiliary closing lever 7 exerts a pushing movement on the lock latch 2, during which the auxiliary closing lever 7 is subjected to pressure. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible that, during the auxiliary opening access, the auxiliary opening lever 8 interacts with the lock latch 2, which is in the main closed position, to adjust it in the opening direction. The auxiliary opening lever 8 exerts a pushing movement on the lock latch 2, during which the auxiliary opening lever 8 is subjected to pressure.

[0034] It is conceivable that the opening aid mechanism fulfills an ice-breaking function, a so-called "ice-breaker function," through the opening aid process. This allows the lock latch 2 to be adjusted to the open position even if the pawl system 3 is adjusted to the open state and the lock latch 2 nevertheless remains in the main closed position. This is possible, for example, if the lock latch 2 is frozen over at low temperatures or jammed by dirt. It is therefore preferably provided that the opening aid lever 8 and the lock latch 2 in the main closed position initially interact to adjust them in the opening direction, in particular by the opening aid lever 8 engaging the lock latch 2, and that during the opening aid process, in particular at the end of the opening aid process, the interaction ends, in particular by the opening aid lever 8 disengaging from the lock latch 2.The ice-breaking function is preferably limited to a brief push on the lock latch 2 in such a way that the respective obstacle, such as ice or jamming, is broken up or overcome.

[0035] With regard to the interaction between the auxiliary levers 7, 8 and the lock latch 2, it is preferably provided that the lock latch 2 has a closing engagement section 9 and an opening engagement section 10. The auxiliary closing lever 7 can engage with the lock latch 2 via the closing engagement section 9, as shown in Figs. 2b) and 2c). The auxiliary opening lever 8 can engage with the lock latch 2 via the opening engagement section 10, as shown in Figs. 3b) and 3c). It is provided that the auxiliary closing lever 7, when the lock latch 2 is in the pre-locking position, comes into engagement with the closing engagement section 9 during its actuating movement and moves past the closing engagement section 9 during its idle stroke. The idle stroke of the auxiliary closing lever 7 can be seen as an example in Fig. 3a) to 3c).In contrast, when the lock latch 2 is in the main closed position, the auxiliary opening lever 8 engages with the opening engagement section 10 during its actuating movement and runs past the opening engagement section 10 during its idle stroke. The idle stroke of the auxiliary opening lever 8 can be seen, for example, in Figs. 2a) to 2c). The closing engagement section 9 can, for example, be hook-shaped and / or the opening engagement section 10 can, for example, be pin-shaped. The closing engagement section 9 and the opening engagement section 10 can, for example, each lie in the locking plane of the lock latch 2 and / or outside the locking plane of the lock latch 2.

[0036] In connection with the opening engagement section 10, it is preferably provided that the engagement between the auxiliary opening lever 8 and the opening engagement section 10 is such that the auxiliary opening lever 8 follows the movement of the opening engagement section 10 and thus the movement of the lock latch 2 during the auxiliary opening process, as can be seen from the synopsis of Figs. 3a) to 3c). This is achieved in the present case by creating a hook between the auxiliary opening lever 8 and the opening engagement section 10.

[0037] It is possible that the opening engagement section 10 forms a temporary pivot point during the opening assistance process, in particular when the opening assistance lever 8 is engaged with the lock latch 2 via the opening engagement section 10, around which the opening assistance lever 8 pivots in relation to the lock latch 2 during the opening assistance process.

[0038] It is possible that the closing engagement section 9 forms a temporary pivot point during the auxiliary closing process, in particular when the auxiliary closing lever 7 is engaged with the lock latch 2 via the closing engagement section 9, around which the auxiliary closing lever 7 pivots in relation to the lock latch 2 during the auxiliary closing process.

[0039] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the trigger mechanism 4 is coupled or can be coupled to the auxiliary mechanism 5 in such a way that the actuation of the trigger mechanism 4 causes the transfer of the auxiliary mechanism 5 into the auxiliary opening state. Actuation of the trigger mechanism 4 thus causes a change in the state of the auxiliary mechanism 5 from the auxiliary closing state to the auxiliary opening state. This is exemplified by the overview of Fig. 2a), in which the auxiliary mechanism 5 is in the auxiliary closing state and the

[0040] Trigger mechanism 4 is not actuated, and 3a), in which the auxiliary mechanism 5 is in the opening auxiliary state and the

[0041] The trigger mechanism 4 is activated. In the preferred

[0042] The embodiment is the trigger mechanism 4 and the

[0043] Auxiliary mechanism 5 is permanently coupled. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the trigger mechanism 4 and the auxiliary mechanism 5 to be coupled and only temporarily coupled. For example, it would be conceivable for the trigger mechanism 4 and the auxiliary mechanism 5 to be coupled only upon actuation of the trigger lever 11.

[0044] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 form a functional kinematics 12. Due to the functional kinematics 12, a movement dependency arises between the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8. Thus, it preferably arises that the functional kinematics 12 causes the idle stroke of the auxiliary opening lever 8 during the actuating movement of the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the idle stroke of the auxiliary closing lever 7 during the actuating movement of the auxiliary opening lever 8. Furthermore, it preferably arises that a pivoting of the auxiliary closing lever 7 causes a pivoting of the

[0045] opening auxiliary lever 8, as is the case with a

[0046] A change in state of the auxiliary mechanism 5 from the auxiliary closing state (according to Figs. 2a) to 2c)) to the auxiliary opening state (according to Figs. 3a) to 3c)) is the case. Here and preferably, the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 form a scissor kinematics 13. In the scissor kinematics 13, it is preferably provided that the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are arranged oriented at an arrangement angle to one another. It is possible for the arrangement angle between the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 to change during an auxiliary opening process, in particular for the arrangement angle to increase during the auxiliary opening process, as shown by way of example in Figs. 3a) to 3c). It is preferably provided that the arrangement angle between the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 remains constant during an auxiliary closing process, as can be seen by way of example in Figs. 2a) to 2c).

[0047] It is preferably further provided that the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are pivotally mounted to form the functional kinematics 12. Here and preferably, the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are pivotally mounted on the activation lever 6. It is preferably possible for the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 to be pivotally mounted about one and the same geometric pivot axis 14. Here and preferably, the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are pivotally mounted on the activation lever 6 about one and the same pivot axis 14, as can be seen from Figs. 2a) to 2d) and 3a) to 3c).

[0048] In connection with the functional kinematics 12, it is conceivable that the lock latch 2 can be adjusted in two opposite directions of rotation, namely the closing direction and the opening direction, via the functional kinematics 12, in particular the scissor kinematics 13, depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism 5. The activation movement of the activation lever 6 can, in principle, occur in one and the same direction, regardless of the state of the auxiliary mechanism 5.

[0049] In connection with the functional kinematics 12, it is preferably possible for the functional kinematics 12 to have a spring arrangement 15. The spring arrangement 15 biases the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 toward each other into an initial position. The "initial position" is the relative position of the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 to each other in an unactuated state of the motor vehicle lock 1, during which neither the release lever 11 nor the activation lever 6 are actuated. The unactuated state and the initial position can be seen, for example, in Fig. 1c).

[0050] The spring arrangement 15 preferably comprises a spring element 16, which is coupled to the auxiliary closing lever 7 on the one hand and the auxiliary opening lever 8 on the other, in order to prestress the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 toward one another. The spring element 16 can, as is the case in the preferred embodiment, be designed as a tension spring or as a torsion spring. The spring arrangement 15 can also comprise a plurality of spring elements 16, of which at least one spring element 16 prestresses the auxiliary closing lever 7 and at least one other spring element 16 prestresses the auxiliary opening lever 8, wherein the spring elements 16 in particular prestress the auxiliary levers 7, 8 toward one another.

[0051] As implemented in the exemplary embodiment, and preferably, the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 form a stop arrangement 17 such that the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 are preloaded into the initial position by the spring arrangement 15. "Preloaded" in this context means that the spring arrangement 15 preloads the auxiliary levers 7, 8 such that the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8 abut each other in the initial position, thus forming a stop arrangement.

[0052] With regard to the trigger mechanism 4, it is preferably provided that the trigger mechanism 4 has a trigger lever 11. To actuate the trigger mechanism 4, the trigger lever 11 is pivotable in an actuating movement, as is the case, for example, in Figs. 3a) to 3c).

[0053] With regard to the auxiliary mechanism 5, it is preferably provided that the auxiliary mechanism 5 has a coupling lever 18. To set the auxiliary closing state, the coupling lever 18 can be pivoted into an auxiliary closing position, as shown, for example, in Figs. 2a) to 2c). To set the auxiliary opening state, the coupling lever 18 can be pivoted into an auxiliary opening position, as shown by way of example in Figs. 3a) to 3c). The state of the auxiliary mechanism 5 is thus predetermined by the position of the coupling lever 18. The coupling lever 18 can preferably be pivotally mounted on the activation lever 6. The coupling lever 18 can be pivotally mounted about an axis different from the pivot axis 14 of the auxiliary closing lever 7 and / or the auxiliary opening lever 8.It is possible that the activation lever 6 and the coupling lever 18 are pivotally mounted about one and the same axis, which is in particular different from the pivot axis 14 of the auxiliary closing lever 7 and / or the auxiliary opening lever 8.

[0054] The release lever 11 and the coupling lever 18 are, here and preferably, coupled in such a way that the actuating movement of the release lever 11 causes the coupling lever 18 to be moved into the auxiliary opening position. This is evident, for example, when looking at Fig. 2a), in which the release lever 11 is not actuated and the coupling lever 18 is correspondingly in the auxiliary closing position, and Fig. 3a), in which the release lever 11 has undergone the actuating movement and the coupling lever 18 is correspondingly moved into the auxiliary opening position. It is possible that a movement of the release lever 11 counter to the actuating movement causes the coupling lever 18 to be moved into the auxiliary closing position. This results in the position of the coupling lever 18 being dependent on the position of the release lever 11.

[0055] In the preferred embodiment, the release lever 11 and the coupling lever 18 are permanently coupled. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the release lever 11 and the coupling lever 18 to be coupled only temporarily. Preferably, it is therefore possible for the release lever 11 and the coupling lever 18 to be coupled in such a way that the actuating movement of the release lever 11 causes the coupling lever 18 to be moved into the auxiliary opening position. For example, it would be conceivable for the release lever 11 and the coupling lever 18 to be coupled only during the actuating movement of the release lever 11.As a further alternative, it is preferably also conceivable that the pawl system 3 and the coupling lever 18 are coupled, or in particular can be coupled, in such a way that the actuation of the trigger mechanism 4, in particular the actuation movement of the trigger lever 11, causes the pawl system 3 to be transferred into the open state, which in turn causes the clutch lever 18 to be adjusted into the auxiliary opening position. In particular, it is possible for the pawl and the clutch lever 18 to be coupled, or can be coupled, in such a way that the actuation of the trigger mechanism 4, in particular the actuation movement of the trigger lever 11, causes the pawl to be adjusted from the retracted position to the extended position, which in turn causes the clutch lever 18 to be adjusted into the auxiliary opening position.

[0056] In order to interrupt the movement of the locking element in the event of a pinch, for example if an operator's hand is caught between the locking element and the body during the auxiliary closing process, it is preferably provided that the auxiliary closing process triggered by the activation movement of the activation lever 6 can be interrupted by actuating the trigger mechanism 4, in particular by actuating the trigger lever 11, as shown by way of example in Fig. 2d). By actuating the trigger mechanism 4 or the trigger lever 11 during the auxiliary closing process, the auxiliary closing lever 7 is disengaged from the lock latch 2 and enters its idle stroke movement path. The auxiliary opening process is thus aborted, so that no further drive force is transmitted from the activation lever 6 to the lock latch 2.

[0057] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the coupling lever 18 has an input guide contour 19 for guiding the coupling lever 18 through the trigger mechanism 4. The input guide contour 19 is designed such that the actuation of the trigger mechanism 4 causes the auxiliary mechanism 5 to transfer into the auxiliary opening state. The coupling lever 18 can preferably be guided by the trigger lever 11 of the trigger mechanism 4. The coupling lever 18 and the trigger lever 11 can be coupled or coupleable via the input guide contour 19, as is the case in the exemplary embodiment. The coupling lever 18 preferably has an output guide contour 20 for guiding at least part of the functional kinematics 12.The output guide contour 20 is designed such that the auxiliary closing lever 7 and the auxiliary opening lever 8, driven by the activation movement of the activation lever 6, alternately perform an actuating movement or an idle stroke depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism 5. Here, and preferably, the auxiliary closing lever 7 is guided by the output guide contour 20. In the embodiment of the figure, and preferably, the input guide contour 19 and the output guide contour 20 are arranged on opposite sides of the coupling lever 18.

[0058] It is preferably possible for the coupling lever 18 and the auxiliary closing lever 7 to be coupled or capable of being coupled and decoupled via the initial guide contour 20. In the exemplary embodiment, it is preferably provided that the coupling lever 18 and the auxiliary closing lever 7 are at least temporarily decoupled during the actuating movement of the auxiliary closing lever 7, as can be seen, for example, from Fig. 2c). Here, and preferably, the coupling lever 18 and the auxiliary closing lever 7 are at least temporarily decoupled during the actuating movement of the auxiliary closing lever 7 when the auxiliary closing lever 7 engages with the closing engagement section 9.

[0059] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the scissor kinematics 13 of the auxiliary mechanism 5 expands during the auxiliary opening process, with the auxiliary opening lever 8 following the movement of the lock latch 2, while the coupling lever 18, located in the auxiliary opening position, keeps the auxiliary closing lever 7 disengaged from the lock latch 2. This can be seen, for example, in the overview of Figs. 3a) to 3c). The spring element 16 can be deflected during the expansion.

Claims

Claims 1. Motor vehicle lock for a locking element of a motor vehicle with a lock latch (2) and a pawl system (3), wherein the lock latch (2) is adjustable into an open position, into a main closing position and into a pre-closing position, which is located between the open position and the main closing position, wherein the lock latch (2) in the installed state in the closed positions is in holding engagement with a locking part, in particular with a locking bracket or the like, wherein the pawl system (3) is in a locked state in which the pawl system (3) holds the lock latch (2) in the main closed position or the pre-locking position, and is adjustable into an open state in which the pawl system (3) releases the lock latch (2), wherein the motor vehicle lock (1) has a release mechanism (4), by the actuation of which the pawl system (3) can be transferred into the open state, wherein the motor vehicle lock (1) has an auxiliary mechanism (5) which can be brought into an auxiliary closing state and an auxiliary opening state and which has an activation lever (6), wherein an activation movement of the activation lever (6) can effect an auxiliary closing process or an auxiliary opening process depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism (5), characterized in that the auxiliary mechanism (5) has an auxiliary closing lever (7), by the actuation movement of which the auxiliary closing process can be effected, and an auxiliary opening lever (8), by the actuation movement of which the auxiliary opening process can be effected,which are coupled to the activation lever (6) in such a way that the two auxiliary levers (7, 8), driven by the activation movement of the activation lever (6), alternately perform an actuating movement or an idle stroke depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism (5).

2. Motor vehicle lock according to claim 1, characterized in that during the auxiliary closing process the auxiliary closing lever (7) is brought into contact with the lock latch (2) in the pre-locking position and during the auxiliary opening process the auxiliary opening lever (8) is brought into contact with the lock latch (2) in the pre-locking position Main locking position lock latch (2) interacts to adjust it in the closing direction or in the opening direction.

3. Motor vehicle lock according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lock latch (2) has a closing engagement section (9) for engagement with the auxiliary closing lever (7) and an opening engagement section (10) for engagement with the auxiliary opening lever (8), and in that the auxiliary closing lever (7), when the lock latch (2) is in the pre-locking position, engages with the closing engagement section (9) during its actuating movement and moves past the closing engagement section (9) during its idle stroke, and in that the auxiliary opening lever (8), when the lock latch (2) is in the main closed position, engages with the opening engagement section (10) during its actuating movement and moves past the opening engagement section (10) during its idle stroke, preferably in that the engagement between the auxiliary opening lever (8) and the opening engagement section (10) is such thatthat the opening aid lever (8) follows the movement of the opening engagement section (10) and thus the movement of the lock latch (2) during the opening aid process.

4. Motor vehicle lock according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the trigger mechanism (4) is coupled or can be coupled to the auxiliary mechanism (5) in such a way that the actuation of the trigger mechanism (4) causes the auxiliary mechanism (5) to be transferred into the auxiliary opening state.

5. Motor vehicle lock according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the auxiliary closing lever (7) and the auxiliary opening lever (8) form a functional kinematics (12), in particular a scissor kinematics (13), preferably that the auxiliary closing lever (7) and the auxiliary opening lever (8) are pivotally mounted to form the functional kinematics (12), in particular pivotally mounted on the activation lever (6), further preferably that the auxiliary closing lever (7) and the auxiliary opening lever (8) are pivotally mounted about one and the same geometric pivot axis (14), in particular on the activation lever (6).

6. Motor vehicle lock according to claim 5, characterized in that the functional kinematics (12) has a spring arrangement (15) which prestresses the auxiliary closing lever (7) and the auxiliary opening lever (8) towards each other into an initial position, preferably in that the spring arrangement (15) has a spring element (16) which is coupled to the auxiliary closing lever (7) on the one hand and to the auxiliary opening lever (8) on the other hand in order to prestress the auxiliary closing lever (7) and the auxiliary opening lever (8) towards each other.

7. Motor vehicle lock according to claim 6, characterized in that the auxiliary closing lever (7) and the auxiliary opening lever (8) form a stop arrangement (17) such that the auxiliary closing lever (7) and the auxiliary opening lever (8) are pre-tensioned into the starting position by the spring arrangement (15) before blocking.

8. Motor vehicle lock according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the trigger mechanism (4) has a pivotable trigger lever (11) which can be pivoted in an actuating movement to actuate the trigger mechanism (4), and in that the auxiliary mechanism (5) has a pivotable coupling lever (18) which can be pivoted in an auxiliary closing position to set the auxiliary closing state and in an auxiliary opening position to set the auxiliary opening state, and in that the trigger lever (11) is or can be coupled to the coupling lever (18) in such a way that the actuating movement of the trigger lever (11) causes the coupling lever (18) to be adjusted into the auxiliary opening position.

9. Motor vehicle lock according to claim 8, characterized in that the coupling lever (18) has an input guide contour (19) for guiding the coupling lever (18) through the trigger mechanism (4), in particular the trigger lever (11), such that the actuation of the trigger mechanism (4) causes the transfer of the auxiliary mechanism (5) into the auxiliary opening state.

10. Motor vehicle lock according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the coupling lever (18) has an initial guide contour (20) for guiding at least part of the functional kinematics (12), preferably for the guide of the auxiliary closing lever (7), such that the two auxiliary levers (7, 8), driven by the activation movement of the Activation lever (6), depending on the state of the auxiliary mechanism (5), alternately performs an actuating movement or an idle stroke.

11. Motor vehicle lock according to one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that the scissor kinematics (13) of the auxiliary mechanism (5) spreads out during the auxiliary opening process in that the auxiliary opening lever (8) follows the movement of the lock latch (2), while the coupling lever (18) located in the auxiliary opening position keeps the auxiliary closing lever (7) out of engagement with the lock latch (2).

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