Flap arrangement, automobile having such a flap arrangement and method for releasing or closing an opening

Abstract

The invention relates to a flap arrangement for closing and / or releasing an opening (8) in a body (K) of an automobile (A), in particular an electric vehicle, comprising a cover (10); a first lever-like link (20); and a second lever-like link (30); wherein the first link (20) is connected in an articulated manner to the cover (10), wherein the second link (30) is connected in an articulated manner to the cover (10), wherein the first link (20) is connected in an articulated manner to the body (K), wherein the second link (30) is connected in an articulated manner to the body (K), wherein the cover (10) can be pivoted between a closing position, closing the opening (8), and a release position, releasing the opening (8), in which the cover (10) is at least partially received in the body (K), wherein an actuation lever (40) is connected to the body (K) in a rotatable manner about a rotational axis (41), wherein a one of the actuation lever (40) and the second link (30) has a projection (45) which can be placed against the other of the actuation lever (40) and second link (30) by a rotation of the actuation lever (40), and wherein after the projection (45) has been placed against the other of the actuation lever (40) and second link (30), the cover (10) is pivoted by a four-joint arrangement (11, 13, 21, 41) which has the rotational axis (41) as one of the four joints. A reliable, space-saving and easy-to-attach flap arrangement is created in that the second link (30) is connected to the actuation lever (40) in an articulated manner spaced apart from the rotational axis (41).

Description

[0001] Flap arrangement, automobile with such a flap arrangement and method for releasing or closing an opening

[0002] The invention relates to a flap assembly for closing and / or uncovering an opening in the body of an automobile, in particular an electric vehicle. The invention further relates to an automobile having such a flap assembly. The invention further relates to a method for opening or closing an opening in the body of an automobile using a flap assembly.

[0003] Tank flap assemblies are known in practice which are intended to open or close access to a fuel tank filler neck of a motor vehicle or to an electrical charging socket of an electric vehicle. In a simple embodiment, a cover of the flap assembly is connected to the body or a sheet metal section covering the body via a hinge, so that the cover projects essentially perpendicular to the sheet metal covering when opened and is essentially flush with the sheet metal covering when closed. Such flap assemblies can be easily opened by hand, which is why it may be necessary to further protect the devices arranged underneath against unauthorized access with a cover that can preferably be locked, e.g.The protruding flap represents an obstacle when the vehicle is moving, for example when filling with fuel (electricity or petrol / diesel / gas) in an automated process without an operator on site. There is also a risk of accident and / or injury for passing cyclists or operators, for example, if they collide with the flap. In another design, the cover is connected exclusively via a linkage that extends inwards into a guideway. Such covers are prone to jamming, cannot easily be driven by a motor, develop avoidable noises due to friction, and are susceptible to icing and dirt. Sometimes such covers are not fully accommodated in the cavity, but protrude slightly.

[0004] In practice, there are known flap arrangements intended to provide access to the engine compartment or trunk of a car, with a front or rear lid connected to the body via a four-bar linkage. However, these are not capable of at least partially retracting the corresponding lid into the body when the lid is open.

[0005] In practice, flap assemblies are known which are intended to allow access to the interior of an automobile in order to provide a convertible-like driving experience when the lid is open, with the closed lid forming a roof for the interior of the automobile. To open the interior, the lid is often folded up and pivoted into a convertible top compartment via a four-bar linkage arrangement, which in turn is closed by a separate convertible top compartment lid. The four-bar linkage arrangement has long links which pivot the lid over a large pivoting range outside the automobile, with the articulated connections of the links to the body of the automobile forming the base-side pivot points of the four-bar linkage, and the articulated connections of the links to the lid forming the coupling-side pivot points of the four-bar linkage.

[0006] In practice, flap assemblies are known whose cover is designed as a sliding roof, which can be moved in a first movement step into a raised ventilation position and in a second movement step into a release position that exposes a roof opening. In the release position, the cover is housed between the roof and an interior headliner covering the roof. The cover is usually moved via rollers on rails arranged to the side of the roof opening.

[0007] DE 10 2021 113 734 A1 describes a flap arrangement for closing and / or uncovering an opening in the body of an automobile, in particular an electric vehicle. A cover can be pivoted along the body of the automobile by means of a four-bar arrangement comprising a first lever-like link and a second lever-like link, between a closed position closing the opening and a release position uncovering the opening, in which the cover is at least partially received in the body. The first link and the second link are each pivotably connected to the cover about pivot axes running perpendicular to the extension of the cover.The first link and the second link are each connected to the body of the automobile in an articulated manner about further joint axes running essentially perpendicular to the body, wherein the first link and the second link are additionally adjustable in the direction of the axis of the further joints. A drive pin of a motor is arranged in the further joint axis of the second link, which drive pin pivots an actuating lever about the further axis of rotation of the body of the automobile. Furthermore, the drive pin is coupled to a sleeve with a threaded groove, the outer circumference of which forms a bearing for a bearing bore of the second link. The second link has a projection against which one end of the actuating lever can abut during its rotation, thus transmitting its rotational movement to the second link.Before and after the end of the operating lever hits the projection of the second link, the cover is pivoted by the four-bar arrangement, the further axis of rotation of which is also that of the second link and the operating lever.

[0008] It is the object of the invention to provide a flap arrangement, an automobile with such a flap arrangement and a method for opening or closing an opening in a body of an automobile with a flap arrangement which has a reliable function, is space-saving and easy to install.

[0009] This object is achieved according to the invention by the subject matter defined in an independent claim. According to one aspect of the invention, a flap arrangement for closing and / or uncovering an opening in a body of an automobile, in particular an electric vehicle, is provided, comprising a cover; a first lever-like link; and a second lever-like link; wherein the first link is pivotally connected to the cover, wherein the second link is pivotally connected to the cover, wherein the first link is pivotally connected to the body of the automobile, wherein the second link is pivotally connected to the body of the automobile, wherein the cover is pivotally pivotable between a closed position closing the opening and a release position uncovering the opening, in which position the cover is at least partially received in the body.The flap arrangement is further characterized in that an operating lever is connected to the body of the automobile so as to be rotatable about an axis of rotation, that the second link is connected to the operating lever in an articulated manner at a distance from the axis of rotation, that one of the operating lever and the second link has a projection which can be brought into contact with the other of the operating lever and the second link by rotating the operating lever, and that after the projection has been brought into contact with the other of the operating lever and the second link, the cover is pivoted by a four-bar arrangement which has the axis of rotation of the operating lever as one of the four joints.

[0010] The flap assembly according to the invention enables the reliable closing and opening of an opening in the body, as well as the secure pivoting of the lid into a release position, in which the lid is at least largely accommodated in a cavity of the body. In the closed and released positions, the lid is securely held, preventing it from falling or opening on its own.

[0011] The flap assembly transfers the cover from the closed position to the released position (and back) in two partial strokes: In a first partial stroke, the joint assembly connecting the second link and the operating lever is pivoted. During this time, the joint connecting the first link to the body is prevented from pivoting noticeably, so that the cover pivots relative to the first link, which does not change its position. As a result, the cover is then driven by a first four-bar linkage, in which the second link forms a coupling, the body with the first link, which remains stationary, forms a base, and the cover and the operating lever form links. In the first stroke, a high force is advantageously provided with a short stroke. This can break up any ice crust that may be fixing the cover to the panel.

[0012] During a second partial stroke, the joint arrangement connecting the second link and the operating lever is locked when the projection bears against the second link, as relative movement between the two parts is no longer possible. The first link then also pivots about its articulated connection to the body. The cover is then driven by a second four-bar arrangement, different from the first, in which the cover forms the coupling, the body forms the base, and the first link, as well as the line of action between the articulated connection of the cover and the second link on the one hand, and the axis of rotation of the operating lever, on the other hand, form the links of the four-bar arrangement. With a low force, a comparatively large stroke is achieved.

[0013] The transition from the first partial stroke to the second partial stroke (and back) occurs when the projection of the operating lever comes into contact with the second link. Before the projection comes into contact with the second link, the second link is indirectly connected to the operating lever via its linkage with the operating lever and thus to the body in an articulated manner. After the projection comes into contact with the second link, the second link is coupled to the operating lever and thus is articulated to the body via its axis of rotation. As a result, the flap arrangement provides a multi-joint arrangement with a total of only five rotatable articulation points, which provides two different four-bar arrangements that move the cover in a defined and reproducible manner along a predetermined trajectory.The pivoting hinges are virtually backlash-free, low-tolerance, low-noise, and low-maintenance, as well as resistant to dirt, moisture, or icing. The lid is well protected against vandalism in the release position. The flap assembly is easy to manufacture, compact, and virtually maintenance-free. Furthermore, it has few parts that do not require complex processing. The pivots offer minimal resistance during release or closing, and the flap assembly moves the lid along a reproducible trajectory.

[0014] In the closed position of the lid, the line of action of the first link, which results from a connecting line between the two articulated connections of the first link and the lid or the body, is expediently arranged such that the line of action of the first link forms an acute angle with the line of action of the second link. This acute angle is expediently smaller than the angle formed by the line of action of the first link and the line of action between the joint of the first link and the rotational axis of the operating lever.

[0015] In an advantageous development, it is provided that the second link and the actuating lever form a toggle lever arrangement in the closed position. The knee of the toggle lever arrangement is expediently formed by the joint connecting the second link and the actuating lever, while the joint coupling the second link and the cover allows free pivoting movement. Furthermore, the actuating lever is rotatable about its axis of rotation. The toggle lever arrangement provides the kinematics with which the joint arrangement coupling the cover to the second link or the coupling joint can be pulled axially inward. The toggle lever arrangement provides a large force for retracting the coupling joint. Conversely, the coupling joint is displaced outward by the toggle lever arrangement when the cover is transferred into the closed position by pivoting the actuating lever.

[0016] The joint connecting the second link to the operating lever is advantageously connected close to the axis of rotation, so that the first link performs a comparatively small movement transverse to its extension (or line of action) during the first partial stroke. During the first partial stroke, the joint connecting the second link to the operating lever pivots from one side of the operating lever's axis of rotation over the zenith above the axis of rotation to the other side of the axis of rotation. When the second link is retracted, the cover is drawn with its upper edge into the body cavity.

[0017] According to a favorable embodiment, the second link is preloaded by a spring arrangement toward the projection of the actuating lever. This advantageously ensures that the degree of freedom provided by the toggle lever arrangement does not result in the second link assuming arbitrary angles to the actuating lever. The spring arrangement presses the first link toward the projection when the toggle joint is free, thus ensuring reliable and reproducible positioning of the first link. At the same time, the spring arrangement supports the opening movement until the projection comes into contact with the first link.

[0018] When the lid is moved from the release position to the closed position, the spring arrangement also ensures that the second link continues to bear against the projection of the operating lever and that the second link follows the operating lever during closing, even when higher accelerations of the operating lever occur. This advantageously prevents jerking and / or rattling of the lid and ensures that the movement of the operating lever is transmitted evenly to the lid. Alternatively or additionally, a spring arrangement can also be provided which preloads the first link in a direction opposite to the release position. Such an alternative or additional spring arrangement can advantageously ensure that the second link is held in its position until the preset spring force is overcome.

[0019] A particularly reliable embodiment can be achieved in that a guide pin protruding from the second link and / or from the cover is accommodated in a slotted hole limitation similar to a guide slot. The slotted hole limitation represents a type of protective device against unintentional pivoting of the second link about its joint with the actuating lever, e.g. if a person presses against the cover from the outside or jerks it and in doing so, for example, overcomes the preload of the spring arrangement. In other words: the slotted hole limitation does not guide the guide pin during regular actuation of the flap arrangement, but forms an envelope within whose boundaries the guide pin must remain. The slotted hole limitation could therefore also be referred to as a limitation envelope or a limitation slot.

[0020] Preferably, the guide pin extending from the second link and / or the cover is a joint pin of a joint or multi-joint arrangement connecting the second link and the cover, which is received in the elongated hole boundary. The joint pin represents an outer point of the cover, preventing collisions with other parts of the flap assembly or the components of the body cavity. The joint pin can also be extended axially beyond the joint eyes that receive the joint pin, and / or have a plastic sheath or a guide roller to prevent noise.

[0021] The slot boundary advantageously has a first straight

[0022] Section and a second curved section adjacent to the first straight section. The slot boundary thus surrounds the trajectory of the guide pin, preferably the hinge pin, with a clearance to prevent noise and abrasion. A minimal distance between the two boundaries and the trajectory of the guide pin is advantageously provided, so that during normal operation there is no or only infrequent contact between the guide pin and the slot boundary.

[0023] The second curved section is preferably arranged as a circular arc segment around the rotational axis of the actuating lever. After the projection is applied to the second link, the line of action connecting the hinge pin between the second link and the cover, or alternatively other possible guide pins protruding from the second link, to the rotational axis is pivoted in a circle around the rotational axis, so that the second curved section follows this trajectory section.

[0024] In a favorable embodiment, an electric drive is assigned to the actuating lever, which causes the rotation of the actuating lever about the axis of rotation. The electric drive preferably comprises an electric motor, wherein the rotation of its output shaft is converted into a pivoting movement of the actuating lever. For this purpose, a worm gear can be connected to the output shaft, which meshes with circumferential teeth about the axis of rotation of the actuating lever. Alternatively, the output shaft can also have a gear or a bevel gear, which preferably drives the actuating lever via a gear mechanism. Alternatively, the electric drive can also be a spindle drive, which is coupled, for example, to the actuating lever. The electric drive makes it possible to open and / or close the cover of the flap arrangement according to the specifications of a control system. This allows the cover to be opened in a targeted manner before or after, for example,A charging robot is charging or has already charged the car's battery. This charging process can then also be automated, for example, at night, without an external operator having to open the lid manually.

[0025] The electric drive and the downstream gear connection also provide a degree of self-locking, preventing the lid from being accidentally opened by external influences. Since multi-joint arrangements with their articulated connections also exhibit a certain degree of inertia or frictional resistance, accidental opening of the lid can also be achieved by adjusting these parameters without the need for an electric drive.

[0026] Alternatively and / or in addition to the electric drive, the operating lever can also be assigned a spring mechanism, which can be tensioned when the operating lever is rotated toward the lid's release position and can be released when the operating lever is rotated toward the lid's closed position. The spring mechanism can, for example, comprise a torsion spring or a wrap spring, which is tensioned when the lid is opened and supports the subsequent closing process.

[0027] At the same time, the spring-loaded mechanism would push the lid into the closed position with a certain preload, which is why the spring-loaded mechanism is also useful in addition to the electric drive. If a spring-loaded mechanism is provided, a braking arrangement (e.g., the motor) or a releasable locking arrangement can conveniently hold the lid in the release position to temporarily prevent the lid from automatically moving into the closed position. The locking arrangement can also be implemented as a charging plug or similar device inserted into the opening.

[0028] It is understood that the direction of movement of the actuating lever between the closed position and the release position of the cover can be reversed at any time, since no or at most minimal hysteresis effects occur due to the clear trajectory.

[0029] The two axes of rotation of the first link, the two axes of rotation of the second link, and the axis of rotation of the actuating lever are designed to run parallel to the extension of the cover. This ensures a simple and smooth transition from a first four-bar linkage to a second four-bar linkage (and back). Furthermore, it is possible to design the axes of rotation without axial play and thus with low noise. Furthermore, in the event of a power failure, for example, emergency opening of the cover can be achieved by applying pressure to the outside of the cover.

[0030] In a practical embodiment, a joint arrangement pivotally connecting the cover to the body comprises two first links, two second links, and two actuating levers. The cover is then advantageously guided along two lateral edges, and the synchronous operation of the two joint arrangements advantageously prevents tilting, especially in the presence of external influences or unwanted manual manipulation of the cover by an operator.

[0031] In an advantageous embodiment, it is then further provided that the articulated connections of the first links, the second links and the axes of rotation of the actuating levers are aligned in order to ensure synchronization of the two joint arrangements.

[0032] The two actuating levers are preferably connected via a connecting bar such that they can be moved synchronously. This ensures that both joint assemblies are coupled and prevents jamming of the components. Furthermore, the two joint assemblies can be driven jointly with a single electric drive or spring-loaded mechanism. At the same time, a drive element or a tension element can also be attached to the connecting bar to operate both joint assemblies manually.

[0033] The flap assembly is preferably designed as a charging and / or fuel tank flap assembly, in which the cover opens or closes access to an electrical charging device of the vehicle or a fuel tank filler neck (with, if necessary, an additional fuel tank filler neck cover). The covers of a charging and / or fuel tank flap assembly expediently have an approximately rectangular, rounded contour and an outward-facing camber in one direction, flush with the outer sheet metal of the vehicle, while the inward-facing side of the cover is more concave. The cover not only closes the cavity of the body, but also the other parts of the flap assembly, such as the control arms, operating lever, drive, etc.

[0034] When charging an electric vehicle whose charging socket is located in a cavity in the bodywork and can be closed off by a charging flap arrangement as described above, the operator or driver is often not permanently present during a charging process, e.g., at night. The charging flap arrangement ensures that only an authorized person or facility has access to the charging socket. A sensor device can also ensure that after a charging plug has been removed, the cover is closed again, preventing unauthorized third parties or rainwater, snow, or the like from gaining access to the charging socket. Similar to the fuel cap in a fossil-fuel-powered vehicle, the cover of the charging flap arrangement is then a charging socket cover.

[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, an automobile is provided comprising a lid assembly as described above, in which the lid is pivotable between a closed position closing the opening and a release position releasing the opening, in which the lid is received in the body.

[0036] Preferably, the automobile is designed as an electric vehicle, and in the cavity, to which access is possible in the release position, a charging socket is arranged, which enables the charging of the traction battery of the electric vehicle.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, a method is provided for opening or closing an opening in a body of an automobile with a flap arrangement, comprising a cover; a first lever-like link; and a second lever-like link; wherein the first link is pivotally connected to the cover, wherein the second link is pivotally connected to the cover, wherein the first link is pivotally connected to the body of the automobile, wherein the second link is pivotally connected to the body of the automobile, wherein the cover is pivotable between a closed position closing the opening and a release position releasing the opening, in which the cover is at least partially received in the body. The method is characterized by the following steps:

[0038] (1 ) Displacing a joint coupling the cover to the second link along a first trajectory section extending in an approximately linear direction by rotating an actuating lever connected in an articulated manner to the second link about a rotation axis;

[0039] (2) Pivoting the joint coupling the cover to the second link along a second trajectory section in the shape of a circle segment, wherein the radius of the circle segment corresponds to the distance between the axis of rotation and the coupling joint.

[0040] The pivoting of the joint coupling the cover to the second link along the second trajectory section is also expediently carried out by rotating an actuating lever which is connected to the second link in an articulated manner about a rotation axis.

[0041] To open the flap assembly, step (1) is performed first, followed by step (2). To close the flap assembly, step (2) is performed first, followed by step (1). The above and subsequent steps of the method can, but do not have to, be performed in the order listed. However, the specified order defines a preferred embodiment of the method.

[0042] The method according to the invention provides a kinematic arrangement that allows the cover to be at least partially, and preferably completely, inserted into a cavity formed in the body without a guide rail. The less the cover protrudes from the cavity, the lower the risk of a person getting caught on the cover and injuring themselves or damaging their clothing.

[0043] The flap arrangement is expediently designed as described above, i.e. has one or more of the features described above with regard to the flap arrangement.

[0044] During the first trajectory section, the first link is advantageously arranged stationary. This advantageously ensures that the articulated connection between the first link and the body does not perform a pivoting movement and thus also does not exert any influence on the joint coupling the second link to the cover. Accordingly, the coupling joint is displaced along the first trajectory section by a first four-bar linkage arrangement, which includes the rotational axis of the actuating lever and the joint between the first link and the cover as the base-side articulation points, and the coupling joint and the joint between the second link and the actuating lever as the coupling-side articulation points of the first four-bar linkage arrangement.

[0045] During the first trajectory section, the lid and the operating lever pivot the second link (coupler) around the body (base) like a first four-bar linkage. This creates a kinematically clearly defined displacement step along the first trajectory section, so that the lid is always pivoted away from (or toward) the closed position reliably and virtually silently, without the need for additional guidance.

[0046] During the second trajectory section, the first link and the second link, driven by the operating lever or by a projection of the operating lever, pivot the cover (coupler) around the body (base) in the manner of a second four-bar linkage. The two articulated connections of the cover to the two links form the coupling-side articulation points of the second four-bar linkage, while the rotational axis of the operating lever and the joint arrangements coupling the first link to the body form the base-side articulation points of the second four-bar linkage. This creates a kinematically clearly defined displacement step along the second trajectory section, so that the cover is always pivoted reliably, reproducibly, and practically silently into the same release position, without the need for additional guidance.

[0047] During the second trajectory section, the second link and the actuating lever are expediently displaced together in such a way that the coupling joint is pivoted about the axis of rotation and a line of action between the coupling joint and the axis of rotation forms a resulting link of the second four-bar linkage.

[0048] During the transition from the first trajectory section to the second trajectory section, a projection of the actuating lever advantageously engages the second link and rotates it toward the release position. This locks the joint between the second link and the actuating lever in the release direction of the lid and unlocks it in the closing direction of the lid.

[0049] Preferably, a first switching step (3) is provided between steps (1) and (2), after which a projection arranged on one of the actuating lever and the second link comes into contact or out of contact by turning the actuating lever against the other of the actuating lever and the second link. The coming into contact occurs during the transition from the first to the second trajectory section. The coming out of contact occurs during the transition from the second to the first trajectory section. Depending on the transition, the joint between the second link and the actuating lever is locked for a pivoting movement along its axis when it comes into contact, or unlocked again for a pivoting movement along its axis when it comes out of contact.

[0050] Preferably, a second switching step (4) is provided between steps (1) and (2), after which the cover and / or a part articulated to the cover, such as the first link, comes into contact with or out of contact with an abutment. The coming into contact occurs during the transition from the second to the first trajectory section. The coming out of contact occurs during the transition from the first to the second trajectory section. Depending on the transition, the joint between the first link and the body is locked for a pivoting movement along its axis when it comes into contact, or unlocked again for a pivoting movement along its axis when it comes out of contact. The abutment can be formed on an edge of the opening, but also on the body or on a part connected to the body.

[0051] It is expedient for the first switching step (3) and the second switching step (4) to be carried out simultaneously or in close temporal sequence. This ensures that, despite the (at least) five axes of rotation, only the four axes of rotation forming a four-bar linkage are always available for pivoting movement, so that the first trajectory section and the second trajectory section move the lid according to precisely one reproducible four-bar linkage kinematics. This ensures a precise transition between the two trajectory sections at any time when the direction of the drive or the movement of the lid changes.

[0052] Alternatively, a short time offset can be set between the first switching step (3) and the second switching step (4), wherein during the time offset, the inertia of the movement of the cover ensures that the trajectory sections are not left. This can, under certain circumstances, prevent a type of dead center position from occurring when changing direction at the switching point. It is possible that the short time offset occurs automatically due to the inertia of the cover (similar to hysteresis) during movement into its release position or into its closed position, which is transmitted to the moving parts of the flap arrangement.

[0053] According to an important aspect, a flap assembly or a method for opening or closing an opening in a motor vehicle body is specified, which is characterized in that the driven four-bar linkage is switched by a radial projection of the actuating lever coming into contact with the linkage articulated to the cover. This advantageously makes it possible to drive a cover with several successive, different four-bar linkages without each four-bar linkage having to be assigned its own drive. The flap assembly can thus be driven cost-effectively with a single electric motor.

[0054] Further advantages and developments of the invention emerge from the dependent claims and from the following description of a preferred embodiment.

[0055] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings using a preferred embodiment.

[0056] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a preferred

[0057] Embodiment of a flap arrangement according to the invention in a closed position closing an opening.

[0058] Fig. 2 shows a side view of the flap arrangement from Fig. 1 in the closed position.

[0059] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the flap assembly of Figs. 1 and 2 in a partially open position.

[0060] Fig. 4 shows a side view of the flap arrangement from Figs. 1 to 3 in a release position exposing the opening. Figs. 1 to 4 show a flap arrangement 1 which has a cover 10 designed as a tank cap or supply cap, which in the position shown in Figs. 1 and 2 closes an opening 8 in an outer sheet 9 covering the body. The outer sheet 9, like an inner sheet 7, is connected to a body K and thus forms part of the body K of an automobile A. The opening 8 delimits a cavity H of the body K, which is arranged within the body K.

[0061] The opening 8, which can be closed by the cover 10, allows access to the cavity H in which one or more charging sockets of an electric vehicle are arranged. The cover 10 can be pivoted between a closed position (Figs. 1 and 2) closing the opening 8 and a release position (Fig. 4) uncovering the opening 8, in which the cover 10 is received in the body K or in the cavity H.

[0062] The inside of the lid 10 is equipped with a circumferential seal, e.g., made of rubber or polyurethane, which enables a liquid-tight seal of the cavity H from the environment. The seal fits into the opening 8 and thus prevents the penetration of liquids. This also protects elements arranged in the cavity H against contact with rainwater or the like. The seal practically hermetically fills the gap provided between the lid 10 and the opening 8. Alternatively, the seal can also be connected to the opening 8. The lid 10 is a dimensionally stable, non-foldable lid made of a metal sheet or a plastic.

[0063] The flap arrangement 1 comprises, in addition to the cover 10, two first links 20 and two second links 30. The flap arrangement 1 further has two actuating levers 40 which are rotatably connected to the body K or to a part connected to the body K. The actuating levers 40 are rotatable about a common axis of rotation 41, so that upon actuation of a drive worm 52 driven by a motor 50 via an output shaft 51, which meshes with an externally toothed circumference 42 in the form of a cylindrical section of the actuating lever 40, which protrudes laterally from the actuating lever 40 and coaxially to the axis of rotation 41, the actuating lever 40 is pivoted optionally clockwise or counterclockwise about the axis of rotation 41.

[0064] It can be seen in Fig. 1 that only the front of the two actuating levers 40, as viewed, has an externally toothed periphery 42 that meshes with the drive worm 52. Synchronization in the direction of rotation of the two actuating levers 40 is therefore coupled by a connecting bar 43 connecting the two actuating levers 40 and arranged at one end of the actuating levers 40 facing away from the rotation axis 41.

[0065] The motor 50 is an electric motor driven by a controller and also suitable for locking the cover 10. Alternatively, the motor 50 can also be provided at another location in the installation space where it can be supplied with electrical energy and allows a drive engagement with the circumference 42.

[0066] The first link 20 is articulated at a cover-side end in a joint arrangement 11 to a bearing block 12 projecting inward from the cover 10. The joint arrangement 11 comprises a single joint designed as a single-joint, but can also comprise a multi-joint arrangement, for example a four-bar linkage. The first link 20 is articulated at a body-side end in a joint arrangement 21 to the body K or a fastening part connected to the body K. The joint arrangement 21 comprises a single joint designed as a single-joint, but can also comprise a multi-joint arrangement, for example a four-bar linkage. The axes of the joints of the joint assemblies 11, 21 are aligned with one another, so that the two first links 10 move simultaneously and uniformly.

[0067] The second link 30 is at one end on the cover side in a

[0068] Joint arrangement 13 is pivotally connected to a bearing block 14 projecting inward from the cover 10. The joint arrangement 13 comprises a single joint designed as a single-joint, but can also comprise a multi-joint arrangement, for example, a four-bar linkage. The second link 30 is pivotally connected to the actuating lever 40 at a body-side end in a joint arrangement 31 spaced from the rotation axis 41. The joint arrangement 31 comprises a single joint designed as a single-joint, but can also comprise a multi-joint arrangement, for example, a four-bar linkage. The axes of the joints of the joint assemblies 13, 31 are aligned with one another, so that the two second links 30 move simultaneously and uniformly.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second links 20, 30 have a substantially rectilinear extension between their mutual joint arrangements or joints 11, 21 and 13, 31, respectively; it is understood that the links may also be curved, for example, if the available space so requires, with the lines of action between the joints remaining rectilinear.

[0070] Radially projecting from the rotation axis 41, the actuating levers 40 have a plate-shaped extension 44, from which a projection 45 designed as a pin projects outwards. This projection 45 is rotated about the rotation axis 41 together with the actuating lever 40 and is intended to be brought into contact with the second link 30, as shown in Fig. 3. In the closed position shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the projection 45 forms a triangle with the joint 31 and the rotation axis 41. It is also possible to design the projection as an embossed portion, tab, or bead on the actuating lever 40. Alternatively, the second link 30 can also have a projection which comes into contact with the actuating lever 40 when a certain angular position is reached.

[0071] The second link 30 and the actuating lever 40 form a toggle lever arrangement 60 in the closed position. The toggle lever arrangement 60 is expediently formed by the joint 31 connecting the second link 30 and the actuating lever 40, while the joint 13 connecting the second link 30 and the cover 10 allows free pivoting movement. Furthermore, the actuating lever 40 is rotatable about its axis of rotation 41.

[0072] The toggle lever arrangement 60 grants the flap assembly 1 an additional degree of freedom, which can lead to uncontrolled movements of the second link 30, for example, when external forces act on the cover 10. To prevent any arbitrary rotation of the second link 30, a spring arrangement 70 is provided, which preloads the second link 30 toward the projection 45 of the actuating lever 40.

[0073] The spring arrangement 70 comprises a torsion spring with multiple coils and two end-side loading arms 71, 72, one of which 71 is supported against the second link 30 and the other 72 is supported against the actuating lever 40, in this case against its projection 45. In principle, it is sufficient to provide the spring arrangement 70 on only one of the toggle lever assemblies 60 comprising the second link 30 and the actuating lever 40; however, in this case, both toggle lever assemblies 60 are equipped with a spring arrangement 70 to ensure redundancy in the event of the failure of one spring arrangement 70. The spring arrangement 70 is tensioned in the closed position of the cover 10 and relaxes when the projection 45 is rotated toward the second link 30. It is understood that the spring arrangement may also comprise springs other than torsion springs.

[0074] The flap assembly 1 further comprises an elongated hole limiter 80, in which a guide pin protruding from the second link 30 and / or from the cover 10, in this case a hinge pin of the hinge 13, is received. The elongated hole limiter 80 has a first, straight section 81 and a second, curved section 82 adjacent to the first straight section 81. The sections 81, 82 are designed like two elongated holes merging into one another. The elongated hole limiter 80 represents an additional safety measure against incorrect operation, but is not required for the movement of the cover 10 itself. However, if a user strikes or jerks the cover 10, it may happen that the second link 30 is pivoted relative to the actuating lever 40 against the holding force of the spring assembly 70, and the cover 10 assumes an undesirable position or even becomes wedged.In this case, the slot limiter 80 with its upper and lower limits ensures that the joint 13 only moves on an approved trajectory T. The approved trajectory T corresponds approximately to the center line of the sections 81, 82, with a sufficient distance to the limits of the slotted holes being provided in order to avoid noise generation, e.g. due to rubbing along the slot limiter 80 or due to rattling.

[0075] The trajectory T comprises a first trajectory section T1 running in an approximately linear direction, which in the present embodiment is approximately aligned with the axis of rotation 41, but can also point in a completely different direction. Adjacent to this, the trajectory T comprises a second trajectory section T2 running in the shape of a circular segment, wherein the radius of the circular segment corresponds to the distance from the axis of rotation 41 and the joint 13 coupling the cover 10 and the second link 30. The trajectory T and / or the slot boundary 80 can be displaced in parallel, for example if the space requirement in the cavity H requires this, if, instead of the joint pin of the joint 13 coupling the cover 10 and the second link 30, another pin is provided, which projects perpendicularly from the cover 10 or preferably from the second link 30. For reasons of better clarity, the trajectory T is only shown in Fig. 3 as a dash-dotted curve.It can be seen that the two trajectory sections T1, T2 enclose an angle which is greater than 90°, ie during the transition from the first trajectory section T1 to the second trajectory section T2 (and vice versa) there is a significant change in the direction of displacement of the coupling joint 13.

[0076] In the closed position (Fig. 2), the joint 13 is located in or near a proximal end of the straight section 81. In the release position (Fig. 4), the joint 13 is located in or near a distal end of the curved section 82. It is possible, but not mandatory, that the proximal and distal ends of the sections 81, 82 simultaneously provide an end stop for the joint 13 and thus for the valve assembly 1.

[0077] When the projection 45 comes into contact with the second link 30, the joint 13 is located in the transition area from the straight section 81 to the curved section 82. In this switching position, the transition between the two trajectory sections T1 and T2 occurs. Starting from the displacement in the closing direction, the lower edge of the cover 10 with its seal comes into contact with the lower edge of the opening 8, thus locking the first link 20. Bringing the second link 30 into (or out of) contact or coupling it with the actuating lift in such a way that they can no longer (or again) pivot freely relative to each other in the joint 31 represents a switching step between two four-bar linkages, as explained further below. Both four-bar linkages can be driven by the same motor 50.

[0078] It can be seen that the joint 31 coupling the second link 30 and the actuating lever is arranged near the axis of rotation 41. Accordingly, the joint 31, the axis of rotation 41, and the peg-shaped projection 45 arranged parallel to their axes form a triangle, wherein the leg of the triangle formed by the connection of the joint 31 and the axis of rotation 41 is less than one-third, preferably one-quarter, of the length of the other two legs.

[0079] It is even possible to overturn the toggle lever arrangement 60 in the closed position, i.e., to provide it in an over-center position: In this case, external pressure on the cover 10 would no longer be able to cause an opening movement of the flap arrangement. It can be seen in Fig. 2 that the angle between the projection 45 and the side of the second link 30 facing the projection 45 corresponds to the angle by which the actuating lever 40 is pivoted until the projection 45 comes into contact with the second link 30 and, at the same time, the coupling joint has traversed the first trajectory section T1. The corresponding pivot angle of the actuating lever 40 is approximately 70° in this case. It can also be seen that the circular segment on which the second trajectory section T2 is pivoted is approximately 110°, and the further pivot angle of the actuating lever 40 is correspondingly large.As a result, the actuating lever 40 is rotated by approximately 180° by the motor 50 between the closed position and the release position of the cover 10.

[0080] The invention now works as follows:

[0081] To release the opening 8 from the closed position shown in Fig. 2, the actuating lever 40 is driven by the motor 50 to rotate about the axis of rotation 41. As a result, the joint 31 connecting the actuating lever 40 to the second link 30 is displaced along the first trajectory section T1 and pulled out of the first, rectilinear section 81 of the elongated hole boundary 80. During this movement, the first link 20 remains unchanged in the position shown in Figs. 2 and 3, and in particular, no pivoting movement takes place in the joint 21 between the first link 20 and the body K. In other words: the joint 21 is locked, and only the joints 11, 13, 31 and 41 perform a rotational movement.It can be seen that the joint connection 31 between the second link 30 and the actuating lever 40 is pulled from one side of the rotation axis 41 to the other side of the rotation axis 41, wherein the spring arrangement 70 ensures that the joint 31 connecting the second link 30 to the cover 10 does not deviate and / or leave the first trajectory section T1.

[0082] The joint 13 coupling the second link 30 and the cover 10 executes a relatively short stroke along the first trajectory section T1, which, however, allows a large force to be transferred to the cover 10 and thus to break up an ice crust or the like. This combination of a short stroke and high force is particularly advantageous for the initial lifting of the cover 10 from the opening 8.

[0083] When the coupling link 13 reaches the position shown in Fig. 3 in the opening direction, the projection 45 of the actuating lever 40 strikes the second link 30. From this point on, the second link 30 and the actuating lever 40 are coupled, with the result that the coupling joint 13 between the second link 30 and the cover 10 now rotates about the axis of rotation 41, i.e., a new link with the line of action W (shown in dash-dotted lines in Fig. 4) between the joints 13 and the axis of rotation 41 is created. At the same time, the joint 21 between the first link 20 and the body K is released, and a new, second four-bar arrangement is created, which forms the body K as the base, the first link 20 and the line of action W between the joint 13 and the axis of rotation 41 as the second, resulting link, and the cover 10 as the coupling of the four-bar linkage.The coupling joint 13 then performs a pivoting movement in accordance with the pivoting of the actuating lever 40 about the rotation axis 41, resulting in the second trajectory section T2. ​​After passing through the second trajectory section T2, the coupling joint 13 is in the distal position as shown in Fig. 4. The joint 31 is locked via the second trajectory section T2, i.e., no pivoting occurs within it. The trajectory section T2 is designed as a circular arc segment around the rotation axis 41, the radius of which corresponds to the distance of the coupling joint 13 from the rotation axis 41.

[0084] In other words: Bringing the projection into contact switches the flap arrangement from the first four-bar linkage to the second four-bar linkage, with four of the five pivot points being active at any one time. Bringing the projection out of contact switches the flap arrangement (during the closing process) from the second four-bar linkage back to the first four-bar linkage. At the same moment (in the opening direction), the lower edge of the cover 10 moves out of contact with the opening 8 and activates the first link 20. Conversely (in the closing direction), the lower edge of the cover 10 moves into contact with the opening 8 and deactivates the first link 20. The simultaneous occurrence of the two aforementioned steps always ensures that at least four and a maximum of four pivot points of the flap arrangement 1, which has a total of five pivot points, enable pivoting.

[0085] The joint 13 coupling the second link 30 and the cover 10 executes a relatively long stroke along the second trajectory section T2, but transmits only a comparatively low force to the cover 10. This combination of long stroke and low force is particularly advantageous for the period after the cover 10 is first lifted from the opening 8.

[0086] It can be seen in Fig. 4 that the cover 10 is completely accommodated in the cavity H, and that no part of the cover 10 protrudes from the opening 8, so that a connection plug can be fed from many directions towards the opening 8, for example for charging the automobile. This enables autonomous charging with a charging robot without an operator having to open the cover 10 and insert the connection plug. Furthermore, it is not necessary for an additional cover to protect the charging socket. A seal connected to the opening 8 and / or the cover 10, which seal is preferably designed to be circumferential, also contributes to a liquid-tight closure of the opening 8.

[0087] In order to move the lid 10 from the release position shown in Fig. 4 into the closed position shown in Fig. 2, i.e. to close the opening 8, the actuating lever 40 is driven by the motor 50 in the direction opposite to the opening.

[0088] First, the second four-bar linkage, which comprises the joints 21, 11, 13, 41, pivots the cover 10 in the manner of a four-bar linkage into the intermediate position shown in Fig. 3, following the trajectory section T2. ​​The spring arrangement 70 ensures that the second link 30 follows the actuating lever 40 or the projection 45. Upon reaching the intermediate position shown in Fig. 3, an edge of the cover 10 comes into contact with an edge of the opening 8, then the joint 21 between the first link 20 and the body K is locked, and the pivoting of the second four-bar linkage is terminated to this extent, as described above. The locking of the joint 21 or of the first link 20 can alternatively be achieved by a stop limiting the pivoting path of the first link 20 or of the cover 10, which stop is provided in the cavity H of the body K, e.g. if no contact between the opening 8 and the cover 10 is desired.

[0089] Starting from the intermediate position according to Fig. 3, upon further pivoting of the actuating lever 40, the projection 45 moves away from the second link 30 and again enables pivoting about the joint 31 that connects the actuating lever 40 and the second link 30. In this case, the spring arrangement 70 is tensioned again by the driving motor 50. By further turning the actuating lever 40, the coupling link 13 between the second link 30 and the cover 10 is pressed into the first section 81 of the elongated hole limitation 80, and the upper edge of the cover 10 comes into flush contact with the body part 9 of the body K. The spring arrangement 70 advantageously prevents the joint 31 from deflecting instead of a stroke of the coupling joint 13.

[0090] The inertia of the joints of the flap assembly 1 as well as the inertia of the gear connection of circumference 42 and drive worm 52 is sufficient to hold the cover 10 in the closed position and / or in the released position, so that locking is not required.

[0091] It can be seen that the slot limiter 80 does not guide the coupling joint 13, but rather that the guidance of the cover 10 and the coupling joint 13 is ensured by the respective four-bar linkage kinematics. In the closed position, the first section 81 of the slot limiter optionally provides a locking mechanism to prevent the cover 10 from being accidentally pushed open due to vandalism or other external influences. It is possible to provide a further or different locking mechanism, for example, a rotary latch that engages and locks the projection 45. The rotary latch can be spring-loaded and released by an electric drive, expediently the motor 50.

[0092] The motor 50 expediently contains a slip clutch, which makes it possible to open the lid 10 manually in the event of an electrical fault or a discharged battery of the automobile A. For this purpose, manual operation of the flap assembly 1 can be effected, for example, via a Bowden cable or the like that engages the connecting rod 43.

[0093] The invention has been described above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which two pairs of links 20, 30 and two actuating levers 40 pivot the lid 10. It is understood that only a first link, a second link, and an actuating lever may be sufficient for this purpose, for example, if the lid is narrow or lightweight.

[0094] The invention has been described above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which a charging socket for connecting a charging plug for electrically charging an automobile A designed as an electric vehicle is provided in the cavity H. It is understood that other parts can also be arranged in the cavity H, for example a tank nozzle for filling with fossil fuels such as gasoline, diesel, or liquefied gas, or a receiving space for storing objects.

[0095] The invention has been described above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which a motor 50 designed as an electric motor pivots the actuating lever 40. It is understood that, instead of or in addition to the actuating lever 40, a spring energy accumulator can be connected, for example, containing a wrap spring or another spring element, wherein the spring element is tensioned when the lid 10 is opened and relaxed when the lid 10 is closed.

[0096] The invention has been described above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which the joint 21 of the first link 20 and the pivot axis 41 are connected to the body K. It is understood that the joint 21 and the pivot axis 41 can also be connected to a body-side fastening part, individually or jointly, or to a charging extension socket accommodated in the cavity, so that for the installation of the flap arrangement 1, the body-side fastening part is connected to the body K in such a way that the cover 10 is aligned with the outer sheet metal 9 and closes the opening 8 in a watertight manner. In this case, the motor can also be connected to the body-side fastening part.

[0097] The invention has been described above with reference to a preferred embodiment in which the cover 10 has been completely retracted into the cavity H. It is understood that in many applications it may also be sufficient if the cover is at least partially and / or predominantly displaced into the cavity H.

[0098] The invention has been described above with reference to a preferred embodiment in which the lid 10, in the release position, is displaced substantially into an upper region of the cavity H, allowing water and the like to fall down and not collect on the inside of the lid. It is understood that the flap arrangement can also be connected to the lid 10 offset by 90° or 180° or another angle, so that, for example, the lid is inserted laterally.

[0099] The invention has been described above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which the cover 10, body K, and operating lever 40 connected to the first and second links 20, 30 are each connected via a joint arrangement 11, 21, 13, 31 designed as a single joint. It is understood that the joint arrangement with which the first and second links are connected to the corresponding parts can also be designed as a multi-joint arrangement, in particular as a four-joint arrangement.

[0100] The invention has been described above using an exemplary embodiment in which the projection 45 of the actuating lever 40 is positioned upstream of the second link 30 in the actuating direction of the actuating lever 40. It is understood that the projection 45 of the actuating lever 40 can also be provided downstream of the second link 30, for example, if a trajectory is to be achieved in which a circular trajectory section is to be executed by a four-bar linkage, followed by a linear trajectory section after the projection has been brought into contact. This corresponds to an opening movement of the lid, which is designed according to the closing movement of the previous exemplary embodiment.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. A flap arrangement for closing and / or uncovering an opening (8) in a body (K) of an automobile (A), in particular an electric vehicle, comprising a cover (10); a first lever-like link (20); and a second lever-like link (30); wherein the first link (20) is pivotally connected to the cover (10), wherein the second link (30) is pivotally connected to the cover (10), wherein the first link (20) is pivotally connected to the body (K), wherein the second link (30) is pivotally connected to the body (K), wherein the cover (10) is pivotable between a closed position closing the opening (8) and a release position uncovering the opening (8), in which the cover (10) is at least partially received in the body (K), wherein an actuating lever (40) is connected to the body (K) for rotation about a rotation axis (41).wherein one of the actuating lever (40) and the second link (30) has a projection (45) which can be brought into contact with the other of the actuating lever (40) and the second link (30) by rotating the actuating lever (40), and wherein after bringing the projection (45) into contact with the other of the actuating lever (40) and the second link (30), the cover (10) is pivoted by a four-bar arrangement (11, 13, 21, 41) which has the axis of rotation (41) as one of the four joints, characterized in that the second link (30) is articulated at a distance from the axis of rotation (41), is connected to the operating lever (40), 2. Flap arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the second link (30) and the actuating lever (40) form a toggle lever arrangement (60) in the closed position, and in that the second link (30) is prestressed by a spring arrangement (70) in the direction of the projection (45) of the actuating lever (40).

3. Flap arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a guide pin (13) projecting from the second link (30) and / or from the cover (10) is received in a slot limitation (80).

4. Flap arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that the elongated hole boundary (80) has a first straight section (81) and a second curved section (82) adjacent to the first straight section (81), wherein the second curved section (82) is arranged as a circular arc segment around the axis of rotation (41).

5. Flap arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating lever (40) is assigned an electric drive which causes the rotation of the actuating lever (40) about the axis of rotation (41).

6. Flap arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating lever (40) is assigned a spring accumulator which can be tensioned when the actuating lever (40) is rotated in the direction of the release position of the cover (10) and which can be relaxed when the actuating lever is rotated in the direction of the closed position of the cover (10).

7. Flap arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the axes of rotation (11; 21; 13; 31) of the first link (10) and of the second link (30) as well as the axis of rotation (41) of the actuating lever (40) run parallel to an extension of the cover (10).

8. Flap arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a joint arrangement pivotally connecting the cover (10) to the body (K) comprises two first links (20), two second links (30) and two actuating levers (40), that the articulated connections (11; 21; 13; 31) of the first links (10) and the second links (30) as well as the axes of rotation (41) of the actuating levers (40) are aligned, and that the two actuating levers (40) are connected via a connecting bar (43) in such a way that the two actuating levers (40) can be moved synchronously.

9. Automobile, comprising a flap arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the cover (10) is pivotable between a closed position closing an opening (8) and a release position releasing the opening (8), in which the cover (10) is received in a cavity (H) of the body (K).

10. A method for opening or closing an opening (8) in a body (K) of an automobile (A) with a flap arrangement (1), in particular a flap arrangement (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a cover (10); a first lever-like link (20); and a second lever-like link (30); wherein the first link (20) is pivotally connected to the cover (10), wherein the second link (30) is pivotally connected to the cover (10), wherein the first link (20) is pivotally connected to the body (K), wherein the second link (30) is pivotally connected to the body (K), wherein the cover (10) is pivotable between a closed position closing the opening (8) and a release position releasing the opening (8), in which the cover (10) is at least partially received in the body (K), characterized by the steps: Displacing a joint (13) coupling the cover (10) to the second link (30) along a first trajectory section (T1) extending in an approximately linear direction by rotating an actuating lever (40) pivotally connected to the second link (30) about a rotation axis (41); Pivoting the joint (13) coupling the cover (10) to the second link (30) along a second trajectory section (T2) extending in the shape of a circular segment, wherein the radius of the circular segment corresponds to the distance between the axis of rotation (41) and the coupling joint (13).

11. Method according to claim 10, characterized in that during the first trajectory section (T1) the first link (20) is arranged stationary, and / or that during the first trajectory section (T1) the cover (10) and the actuating lever (40) pivot the second link (30) around the body (K) in the manner of a first four-bar linkage (11, 13, 31, 41).

12. Method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that during the second trajectory section (T2) the first link (20) and the second link (30) pivot the cover (10) in the manner of a second four-bar linkage (21, 11, 13, 41) about the body (K), and / or that during the second trajectory section (T2) the second link (30) and the actuating lever (40) are displaced together in such a way that the coupling joint (13) is pivoted about the axis of rotation (41) and an effective line (W) between the coupling Joint (13) and axis of rotation (41) forms a resulting handlebar.

13. Method according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that during the transition from the first trajectory section (T1) to the second trajectory section (T2), a projection (45) of the actuating lever (40) comes into contact with the second link (30) and carries the latter (30) in the direction of the release position.

14. Method according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the driven four-bar linkage (11, 13, 31, 41; 21, 11, 13, 41) is switched over by a radial projection (45) of the actuating lever (40) coming into contact with the link (30) which is articulated to the cover (10).

15. Method according to one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that the axes of rotation (11; 21; 13; 31) of the first link (10) and of the second link (30) as well as the axis of rotation (41) of the actuating lever (40) run parallel to an extension of the cover (10).

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