Coupling interface between modules of an actuation system for a vehicle

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a coupling interface between a first module and a second module of a modular actuation system for a vehicle. The first module comprises a first module housing provided at a first side thereof with a first aperture that extends in a first plane for receiving a rotatable axle therethrough. The second module comprises a second module housing different from the first module housing, provided at a second side thereof with a second aperture that extends in a second plane for receiving the rotatable axle therethrough. The coupling interface comprises complementary snap-fit couplers respectively associated with the second side of the second module housing and the first side of the first module housing, for being brought in a snap-fit coupling engagement by translation of the first and second module housings towards each other in an insertion direction transverse to the first plane and the second plane.

Description

[0001] Title: Coupling interface between modules of an actuation system for a vehicle

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The disclosure relates to actuation systems for vehicles, particularly to electromechanical switching systems for controlling high- power battery connection configurations for electric vehicles.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Vehicles, such as modern passenger cars, comprise many low power electrical actuators for actuating various vehicle components, such as valves, flaps, and switches. Actuators and the vehicle components are generally mass produced and supplied separately for later assembly. The assembly typically involves the connecting of a rotating output of the actuator to a rotating input of the vehicle component, and the connecting of the actuator to an external power supply.

[0006] An exemplary actuation system is an electromechanical switching device as described in WO2023 / 168388. The electromechanical switching device opens and closes high current paths between battery packs and a propulsion motor or charger for electric vehicles. The switching is actuated by rotation of an axle, wherein the axle is rotationally driven by an electric actuator.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] It is an aim to facilitate assembly of actuation systems for vehicles, and particularly for electromechanical switching systems for electric vehicles. It is also an aim to provide a durable and reliable connection between modules of the actuation system. In a more general sense it is an object to overcome or reduce at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art. It is at least aimed to provide a useful alternative.

[0009] Hereto, an aspect provides a coupling interface between a first module and a second module of a modular actuation system for a vehicle. The first module comprises a first module housing provided at a first side thereof with a first aperture that extends in a first plane for receiving a rotatable axle therethrough. The second module comprises a second module housing different from the first module housing, provided at a second side thereof with a second aperture that extends in a second plane for receiving the rotatable axle therethrough. The first module may for example be an actuator module having an actuator for rotationally driving the axle about a rotation axis. The second module may for example include a drivable vehicle component for being driven by the rotatable axle. The first and second modules may optionally each include a drivable vehicle component for example driven by the same rotatable axle.

[0010] The coupling interface comprises complementary snap-fit couplers respectively associated with the second side of the second module housing and the first side of the first module housing. The snap-fit couplers are configured for being brought in a snap -fit coupling engagement by translating the first and second module housings towards each other in an insertion direction transverse to the first plane and the second plane.

[0011] The coupling interface optionally comprises a static seal for being engaged between the first module housing and the second module housing to provide a static circumferential sealing about the first aperture and the second aperture, wherein the coupling interface is configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, engaging the static seal between the first module housing and the second module housing so as to establish the static circumferential sealing. Upon coupling the first module housing to the second module housing, the static seal engages between the first and second module housings that have, in use, no relative motion between each other, while sealing the rotatable axle extending through the first aperture and the second aperture. The static seal thus engages between two relatively static elements, here the first and second module housings, as opposed to a dynamic seal which would engage between elements that are movable relative to each other, e.g. between any of the module housings and the rotatable axle. Providing the static seal enables for an efficient sealing with relatively low complexity, and allows for the first and second modules to be free of a dynamic seal between the rotatable axle and the static module housings. A sealing force is established by the static seal in direction parallel to the insertion direction. The static seal may for instance be ringshaped, e.g. substantially circular, rectangular, or other, to extend around the first and second apertures.

[0012] The coupling interface optionally comprises an male electrical connector and a complementary female electrical connector, associated with a respective one of the second side of the second module housing and the first side of the first module housing, the male electrical connector and the female electrical connector being arranged to mate in the insertion direction; wherein the coupling interface is configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, establishing an electrical connection between the male and female connector.

[0013] The coupling interface may hence comprise the static seal and / or the electrical male and female connectors. The coupling interface can hence be configured to, by coupling the first module housing to the second module housing, establish one or both of the circumferential sealing with the static seal and the electrical connection between the male and female electrical connectors. It will be appreciated that a movement in the insertion direction entails a relative movement, particularly a translation, of the first module housing and the second module housing toward each other, while a movement opposite the insertion direction entails a relative movement, particularly a translation, of the first module housing and the second module housing away from each other.

[0014] It will further be appreciated that the rotatable axle may part of either one or both of the first module and the second module. The rotatable axle may also be part of neither the first module nor the second module. The rotatable axle can furthermore be made of a single piece, or alternatively be comprised of multiple separate axle parts. The rotatable axle can particularly be rotatable about a rotation axis that extends parallel to the insertion direction.

[0015] The static seal may be held by one of the first module or second module, particularly in an uncoupled state. The other one of the first and second module can engage the static seal to establish the circumferential sealing upon the snap-fit coupling of the first and second module housings. The static seal may hence be held to be engaged between the first side and the second side if the module housings. The first module may for example hold the static seal at the first side thereof, or the second module may for example hold the static seal the second side thereof.

[0016] Optionally, the first module is free of a dynamic seal for sealing between the rotatable axle and the first module housing, and / or wherein the second module is free of a dynamic seal for sealing between the rotatable axle and the second module housing.

[0017] Optionally, one of first module or second module comprises an adapter for being rotationally coupled to the rotatable axle, and wherein the coupling interface comprises complementary rotational coupling structures respectively associated with the adapter and the rotatable axle for rotationally coupling the adapter to the axle in a torque transferring manner, the coupling interface being configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, establishing a rotational coupling between the adapter to the rotatable axle. The rotational coupling structures may for example include complementary axial splines configured for allowing slidingly combining and / or separating the axle and the adapter parallel to the insertion direction, and transfer torque between the axle and the adapter in a rotation direction about the rotation axis of axle, parallel to the insertion direction. The axle and the adapter may for instance be provided with external axial splines and internal axial splines respectively.

[0018] Optionally, the snap-fit couplers include axial constraining elements for, in the snap-fit coupling engagement, constraining a movement the first and second module housings relative to each other in a direction opposite the insertion direction. The first module and the second module can hence be axially locked to each other in the coupled state. The snap-fit couplers are optionally configured to be coupled only once. Release of the snap-fit coupling may hence have a substantial risk of jeopardizing the integrity of the snap-fit couplers. Alternatively, the snap-fit couplers may be configured for being releasable, to be recoupled successively.

[0019] Optionally, the snap-fit couplers include lateral constraining elements for, in the snap-fit coupling engagement, constraining a movement the first and second module housings relative to each other in a direction transverse to the insertion direction. The first module and the second module can hence be laterally locked to each other in the coupled state.

[0020] Optionally, the snap-fit couplers are circumferentially arranged about respectively the first aperture and the second aperture. This enables a precise positional alignment of the first and second apertures, to minimize potential bending stress on the axle that extends through the apertures. The snap-fit couplers may hence be positioned, e.g. distributed, to substantially circumvent the respective first and second apertures. The apertures may be circular, but it will be appreciated that other aperture shapes are also envisioned. Optionally, the snap-fit couplers are configured for not supporting torque between the first module housing and the second module housing. This way, lean snap -fit couplers can hence be constructed, facilitating the construction and assembly of the modular system. Rotational forces may be supported by other dedicated elements.

[0021] Optionally, the snap-fit couplers are arranged for allowing rotation of the first module housing relative to the second module housing about an axis parallel to the insertion direction. The snap -fit couplers may for example be substantially arcuate about the respective first and second apertures, for allowing a relative rotation between the first module housing and the second module housing about the rotation axis of the axle. The snap-fit couplers may hence be dedicated for providing an axial coupling between the first module housing and a second module housing, while a torque is supported between the first and second module housings by other dedicated elements.

[0022] Optionally, the coupling interface comprises rotational constraining elements respectively associated with the first side and the second side configured for supporting torque of the first and second module housings relative to each other about an axis parallel to insertion direction. The rotational constraining elements may be used to constrain a rotational movement of the first module housing relative to the second module housing, particularly instead of the snap-fit couplers.

[0023] Optionally, at least one of the rotational constraining elements is laterally spaced from the snap-fit couplers, and configured for being brought in coupling engagement by translating the first and second module housings towards each other in the insertion direction. The lateral spacing between the rotational constraining elements and the snap -fit couplers can provide leverage to reduce the load on the snap fit couplers.

[0024] Optionally, the coupling interface is configured for providing a uni- orientational form fit between the first module housing to the second module housing, for coupling the first module to the second module in only one relative orientation. The first module housing and the second module housing can hence be coupled to each other in a unique relative orientation. Relative orientations that differ from the unique relative orientation hence cannot accomplish a coupling between the first and second module housings. This prevents errors in the assembly of the modular system.

[0025] Optionally, the coupling interface is configured for bringing the first module and the second module in the snap -fit coupling engagement exclusively by movement of the first module housing and the second module housing toward one another in the insertion direction.

[0026] Optionally, the coupling interface comprises a protruding housing portion associated with one of the first or second side, and a complementary recessed housing portion associated with another one of the first or second side, the protruding and recessed housing portions being arranged for providing the uni-orientational form-fit between the first module housing the second module housing and / or for constraining a rotational movement of the first and second module housings relative to each other about an axis parallel to insertion direction. The protruding and recessed housing portions may be used to structure the first side and the second side of the first and second module housing respectively, for providing the uni-orientational form-fit. The protruding and recessed housing portions can additionally or alternatively be used for constraining relative motion between the first module housing and the second module housing, particularly in a radial direction. The protruding and recessed housing portions may include torquesupport surfaces facing tangentially with respect to the rotation axis of the axle.

[0027] Optionally, the protruding and recessed housing portion include radial constraining structures for constraining a relative movement between protruding and recessed housing portions in a direction transvers to the insertion direction, e.g. in the radial direction, and / or in a rotational direction.

[0028] Optionally, the male electrical connector and the female electrical connector are associated with a respective one of the protruding housing portion or the recessed housing portion.

[0029] Optionally, the interface comprises a further seal for providing a circumferential sealing about the electrical connection between the male connector and the female connector. The electrical connection can hence be effectively shielded from the environment.

[0030] Optionally, the further, e.g. static, seal is arranged for being radially engaged between the protruding housing portion and the recessed housing portion. A sealing force can hence be established in a radial direction, transverse to the insertion direction. The radial engagement provides an effective sealing, while avoiding interference with the axial sealing provided by the static seal. The sealing of the electrical connection and the sealing of the axle can hence be functionally decoupled from each other to provide a reliable and mechanically determinate coupling and sealing arrangement. The coupling interface may be configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, radially engaging the further seal between the protruding housing portion and the recessed housing portion.

[0031] Optionally, the snap-fit couplers are arranged for blocking rotation of the first module housing relative to the second module housing about an axis parallel to the insertion direction.

[0032] Optionally, the coupling interface includes a first housing portion of the first module housing at the first side and a second housing portion of the second module housing at the second side, the first and second housing portions being spaced apart from the snap-fit couplers and bound respective internal cavities, wherein the coupling interface is configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, positioning the first housing portion and the second housing portion in close proximity to each other, particularly defining a gap therebetween of at most 2 mm, particularly at most 1 mm, optionally in abutting contact with each other.

[0033] Optionally, the first housing portion and the second housing portion are permeable to a wireless communication signal to allow for transmission of short-range wireless communication signals between the first internal cavity and the second internal cavity.

[0034] Another aspect provides a modular actuation system for a vehicle, comprising a first module and a second module, such as described herein. The modular system comprises a coupling interface between the first module and the second module as described herein.

[0035] Optionally, the system comprises the rotatable axle. The rotatable axle may extending through the first aperture and the second aperture, in a coupled state of the first and second module.

[0036] Optionally, one of the first module or the second module comprises an electrical actuator for rotationally driving the axle about a rotation axis.

[0037] Optionally, the system comprises an actuator controller for controlling the actuator, the actuator controller being remote from said one of the first module or second module. The actuator and the actuator controller may hence not be held by the same housing. The module having the actuator may hence not need a controller, and can hence be made very compact. Control signals for controlling the actuator may be communicated between the first module and the second module via the electric connection between the first module and the second module as provided by the male and female connectors of the coupling interface. The electrical interface between the first and second module can be made particularly simple and reliable this way, because it may only have to transmit electric power to the actuator. No reciprocal communication channels may be necessary between the first module and the second module. The actuator controller may for example be comprised by a central control unit of the vehicle, e.g. the ECU, wherein the central control unit is communicatively connected to the actuator, e.g. via LIN or CAN bus system.

[0038] Optionally, another one of the first module or the second module comprises the actuator controller. The first module housing may for example hold the actuator, and the second module housing may hold the actuator controller, or vice versa. Control signals for controlling the actuator can be transmitted from the second module to the first module via the electric connection as provided by the male and female connectors of the coupling interface.

[0039] Optionally, the second module comprises an electrical switch having a moveable contact and a fixed contact, the electrical switch being configured to have a switch state changed between an open state and a closed state; and wherein the first module is configured for actuating the moveable contact of the second module to change the switch state between the open state and the closed state, wherein the switch state of the electrical switch is changeable in dependence of a rotation of the axle. The first module may hence be an actuator module and the second module may be be a switch module such as described in WO2023 / 168388, wherein the actuator module and the switch module interface with each other using the coupling interface described herein. The axle may hence for example be provided with one or more cams, for actuating the switch module

[0040] Optionally, the first module and the second module each comprise an electrical switch having a moveable contact and a fixed contact, the electrical switch being configured to have a switch state changed between an open state and a closed state. The first module and the second module may hence each be a switch module such as described in WO2023 / 168388, that interface with each other using the coupling interface described herein. Multiple switch modules may be stacked together with an actuator module, wherein adjacent modules interface by the coupling interface described herein.

[0041] Optionally, the second module comprises a valve for being movably drivable between a closed state and an open state in dependence of a rotation of the axle, and wherein the first module is configured for actuation the valve to move the valve via the axle between the open and the closed state.

[0042] Optionally, the second module housing is provided with a fourth aperture that extends in a fourth plane, for receiving a rotatable axle therethrough, and wherein the system comprises a third module comprising a third module housing provided at a third side thereof with a third aperture that extends in a third plane for receiving a further rotatable axle therethrough, and a further coupling interface between the third module and the second module, the further coupling interface as described herein. Hence, multiple modules can be concatenated, wherein adjacent modules interface by the coupling interface as described herein.

[0043] Optionally, the fourth aperture is provided at a side of the second module housing opposite the second side and extends in a plane parallel to the second plane for receiving the rotatable axle therethrough. A module may hence couple to two other modules at opposing sides. A linear concatenation of modules can hence be obtained, having their associated insertion directions in parallel to the rotation axis of the rotatable axle.

[0044] Optionally, the third module comprises an electrical switch having a moveable contact and a fixed contact, the electrical switch being configured to have a switch state changed between an open state and a closed state; and wherein the first module is configured for actuating the moveable contact of the third module to change the switch state between the open state and the closed state, wherein the switch state of the electrical switch is changeable in dependence of a rotation of the axle. Hence, multiple switch modules and an actuator module may be concatenated, wherein each pair of adjacent modules interfaces by the coupling interface described herein.

[0045] Optionally, the fourth aperture is provided at the second side of the second module housing and extends in the second plane for receiving a further rotatable axle therethrough. This way, the second module has two coupling interfaces at the same side, for coupling to two other modules. The second module can for example be used as a connection hub, to which multiple other modules of the modular system are coupled.

[0046] Optionally, the second module comprises distribution circuitry having a single terminal connector for connecting the distribution circuitry to a remote processing unit, such as the vehicle ECU, the distribution circuitry being arranged for distributing electric signals from the single terminal connector to any of the electrical connectors of the coupling interface or the further interface. The second module can hence, for example, be used as a electrical communication hub, to which multiple other modules of the modular system are coupled.

[0047] Another aspect provides a method of assembling a modular actuation system for a vehicle by coupling a first module to a second module, wherein a coupling interface as described herein is provided between the first module and the second module. The method comprises orienting the first module and the second module such that the first plane and the second plane extend in parallel with the first aperture aligned with the second aperture; translating the first module and the second module toward one another in a direction transverse to the first and second planes so as to bring the first module housing and the second module housing in a snap-fit coupling engagement with each other. The method comprises, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in a snap -fit coupling engagement with each other, establishing one or more of a circumferential sealing about the first and second aperture by engaging a seal between the first module housing and the second module housing; an electrical connection between the male connector and the female connector; a circumferential sealing about the male and female connector; a rotational coupling between the adapter to the rotatable axle; positioning the first housing portion and the second housing portion in close proximity to each other, defining a gap between the first housing portion and the second housing portion of at most 2 mm other.

[0048] It will be appreciated that any of the aspects, features and options described herein can be combined. It will particularly be appreciated that any of the aspects, features and options described in view of the coupling interface apply equally to the modular system, and vice versa. It will further particularly be appreciated that any of the aspects, features and options described in view of the coupling interface and the modular system apply equally to the method, and vice versa.

[0049] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0051] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of an exemplary modular system for a vehicle;

[0052] Figures 2A-2C show respective views of a first module of the exemplary modular system shown in figure 1;

[0053] Figures 3A-3C show respective views of a second module of the exemplary modular system shown in figure 1;

[0054] Figures 4A and 4B show respectively a side view and cross- sectional view of the exemplary modular system shown in figure 1;

[0055] Figures 5A and 5B show detailed cross-sectional views of the exemplary modular system shown in figure 1;

[0056] Figure 6 shows another exemplary modular system for a vehicle; Figures 7A-7C show respective views of yet another exemplary modular system for a vehicle;

[0057] Figures 8A and 8B show respective views of another exemplary modular system for a vehicle;

[0058] Figure 9 shows another exemplary modular system for a vehicle.

[0059] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] Figures 1 shows an example of a modular system 100 for a vehicle, comprising a first module 10 and a second module 20. Figures 2A-2C show different views of the first module 10. Figures 3A-3C show different views of the second module 20. The modular system 100 also includes an axle 30. The first module 10 comprises a first module housing 11 provided with a first aperture 12 for receiving the axle 30 therethrough. The first aperture 12 is provide at a first side Si of the first module housing 11 for facing the second module 20. The second module comprises a second module housing 21 provided with a second aperture 22 for receiving the axle 30 therethrough. The second aperture 22 is provide at a second side S2 of the second module housing 21 for facing the first module 10. The second module housing 21 is in this example also provided with a further aperture 23 on a side of the second module housing 21 opposite the second aperture 22. The further aperture 23 is configured for receiving the axle 30 therethrough. The axle 30 can in this example hence be inserted through both the second aperture 22 and the further aperture 23 of the second module 20, as well as through the first aperture 12 of the first module 10.

[0061] The first module 10 and the second module 20 are configured for being coupled to each other via a coupling interface. The coupling interface includes complementary snap-fit couplers of the first module 10 and the second module 20. Here, the first module 10 comprises a first snap-fit coupler 15 and the second module 20 comprises a second snap-fit coupler 25. The first and second snap-fit couplers 15, 25 are in this example integrally formed with the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 respectively, and configured to mate for establish a snap-fit coupling engagement between the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21. The snap-fit couplers 15-25 are configured for being brought in a snap-fit coupling engagement by translating the first module housing 10 and the second module housing 20 towards each other in an insertion direction A2. The insertion direction A2 is parallel to the rotation axis Al about which the axle 30 is rotatably drivable. The insertion direction A2 is, here, also transverse to a first plane in which the first aperture 12 extends and a second plane in which the second aperture 22 extends. It will be appreciated that a movement in the insertion direction A2 entails a relative movement of the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 toward each other, while a movement opposite the insertion direction Al entails a relative movement of the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 away from each other. It will be appreciated that the snap-fit couplers 15, 25 may be elastically deformed while being brought in snap-fit coupling engagement.

[0062] The snap-fit couplers 15, 25 of the coupling interface are in this example arranged circumferential about the respective first and second apertures 12, 22, and constrain a relative movement between the first and second module housings 11, 21 in a direction opposite the insertion direction Al. Once snap-fit coupled to each other, the first module 10 and the second module 20 are axially locked by the snap-fit couplers 15, 25.

[0063] The first module 10 in this example comprises an actuator which is held internal to the first module housing 11. The actuator is configured for driving the axle 30 in rotation about a rotation axis Al. Hereto, the first module 10 in this example includes an adapter 13 for receiving an axial end 31 of the axle 30. The adapter 13 and the axial end 31 of the axle 30 are provided with complementary rotational coupling structures, in this example complementary axial splines 14, 32, for allowing insertion of the axial end 31 into adapter 31 in axial direction of the axle 30, and providing a rotational couphng between the adapter 31 and the axle 30 in a rotation direction about the rotation axis Al.

[0064] The second module 20 in this example comprises an actuatable element, e.g. a switch, flap, valve, etc., that is actuatable by the actuator via the axle 30. Here, the second module 20 comprises an electromechanical switch. Here, the second module 20 comprises an actuator controller held internal to the second module housing 21. The actuator controller is configured for controlling the actuator being held by the first module housing 11. It will be appreciated that in an alternative configuration, the actuator controller and the actuator may both be part of the first module 10 and held by the first module housing 11.

[0065] An electrical connection between the first module 10 and the second module 20 can be established by means of complementary male and female electrical connectors 16, 26 of the coupling interface. In this example, the first module 10 comprises the female electrical connector 16 of the coupling interface and the second module 20 comprises the male electrical connector 26 of the coupling interface, but it will be appreciated that the inverse configuration is also envisioned. The male electrical connector 26 and the female electrical connector 16 are arranged to mate in the insertion direction A2. The coupling interface is configured for, by bringing the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 in the snap-fit coupling engagement, establishing an electrical connection between the male electrical connector 26 and the female electrical connector 16. Here, the male electrical connector 26 of the coupling interface includes two connector pins that extend parallel to the insertion direction A2, and the female electrical connector 16 includes two complementary sockets for respectively receiving the connector pins in the insertion direction A2. Here, the second module 20 includes all intelligence for controlling its actuatable element, wherein the first module 10, having the actuator, merely provides rotational power to the system. The electrical connection between the first module 10 and the second module 20 can hence be made very minimalistic, as it may only transmit a control signal, e.g. an electrical power signal, from the actuator controller held by the second module housing 21 to the actuator held by the first module housing 11. No additional, e.g. reciprocal, electronic communication may be required between the first module 10 and the second module 20.

[0066] The coupling interface, here, also comprises a static seal 40. The static seal 40 is arranged for being engaged between the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 to provide a static circumferential sealing about the first aperture 12 and the second aperture 22, particularly so as to seal the rotational axle 30 extending between the module housings 11, 21 through the first aperture 12 and the second aperture 22. The coupling interface is configured for, by bringing the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 in the snap-fit coupling engagement with the snap-fit couplers 15, 25, engaging the static seal 40 between the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 22 so as to establish the static circumferential sealing. The static seal 40 is hence axially engageable between the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21, such that a sealing force of the static seal 40 acts in a direction parallel to the insertion direction A2. The static seal 40 is hence squeezed between the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21, which in use are stationary with respect to each other. Hence, there need not be provided dynamic seals between the rotatable axle 30, and the respective first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21. This can greatly facilitate manufacture of the individual modules 10, 20, and the assembly of the modular system 100. In this example, the system 100 comprises a further static seal 50 for circumferentially sealing about the electrical connection between the male connector 26 and the female connector 16. While the static seal 40 is arranged for being axially engaged between the first and second module housings 11, 21, the further static seal 50 is arranged for being radially engaged between a protruding housing portion 27 and the recessed housing portion 17 of the respectively the second module housing 21 and the first module housing 11. The further static seal 40 hence provides a sealing force in a radial direction transverse to the insertion direction A2. In this example, the static seal 40 and the further static seal 50 are connected to each other, particularly integratedly formed as a single piece of resilient material, for ease of assembly. It will be appreciate the static seal 40 and the further static seal 50 may alternatively be formed as separate parts.

[0067] The protruding 27 and recessed housing portion 17 are part of the coupling interface, and configured for constraining a rotational movement of the first module housing 11 relative to the second module housing 21 about an axis parallel to insertion direction A2. The protruding 27 and recessed housing portion 17 hence form rotational constraining elements, that may e.g. be used to support torque, e.g. a reaction torque to the rotationally driven axle 30, particularly instead of the snap-fit couplers 15, 25. The protruding 27 and recessed housing portion 17 also constrain relative motion between the first module and the second module 20 in a direction transverse to the insertion direction.

[0068] Furthermore, in this example, the protruding 27 housing portion and the recessed housing portion 17 provide, here in conjunction with the snap-fit couplers 15, 25, a uni-orientational form-fit between the first module housing 11 the second module housing 21. Hence, the first module 10 and the second module 20 can be coupled to each other in only one relative orientation to minimize assembly errors of the system 100, e.g. in accordance with the ‘Poka-yoke’ concept. The first module 10 and the second module 20 can particularly be brought in the snap-fit coupling engagement exclusively by a relative axial translation between the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 towards one another, while the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 are in a unique relative radial orientation and a unique angular orientation with respect to each other.

[0069] Once coupled to each other, the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 are in this example arranged in a unique predetermined relative orientation relative to each other, particularly with the first side S 1 of the first module housing 11 in close proximity to the second side Si of the second module housing 21. Hence, here, internal components held by the first and second module housings 11, 21, on either side of the first and second sides Si, S2, can be arranged relative to each other in a unique predetermined orientation. In this example, the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21 respectively comprise a first housing portion 11 and second housing portion 222, each bounding a respective internal cavity, e.g. for holding a short-range wireless communication device. In the coupled state of the first and second module 10, 20, the first and second housing portions 111, 222 are in proximity from each other particularly spaced apart from each other by less than 2 mm , here less than 1 mm, particularly less than 0.5 mm.

[0070] In this example, the circumferential static sealing is established by the static seal 40, and the electrical connection is established between the male and female electrical connectors 16, 26, upon, and only upon, establishing the snap-fit coupling between the snap-fit couplers 15, 25. No other operation is accordingly required, for coupling the first module 10 to the second module 20.

[0071] Figures 4A shows the first module 10 and the second module 20 in a coupled state of the system 100. In the coupled state, the first side Si of the first module housing 11 and the second side S2 of the second module housing 21 face each other, and are brought in close proximity from each other. Figure 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the first module 10 and the second module 20 in the coupled state as shown in figure 4A. Figures 5A and 5B show detailed cross-sectional views of parts of the coupling interface between the first module 10 and the second module 20 as shown in figure 4B, wherein figure 5A shows the electrical connection between the male and female electrical connectors 16, 26, and figure 5B shows the mechanical snap -fit coupling by the snap -fit couplers 15, 25.

[0072] Figure 5A shows the further seal 50 to be radially engaged between the protruding housing portion 27 of the second module housing 21. Here, the protruding housing portion 27 is provided with circumferential ribs 28 for engaging the further seal 50, to enhance the sealing.

[0073] Figure 5B shows the static seal 40 to be axially engaged between the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21. Here, the steal 40 is held by recessed housing part of the first module housing 11 that forms a seat 18 for the seal 40. The seal 40 is engaged by outer end of the snap-fit coupler 25 of the second module housing 21. The seal 40 is hence engaged between the first module housing 11 and the second module housing 21, which are stationary with respect to each other. The seal 40 is therefor a static seal 40. The axle 30 extends through the first aperture 12 and the second aperture 22. There is in this example no dynamic seal provided between the axle 30 and second module housing 21, nor between the axle 30 and the first module housing 11. The static seal 40 provides a circumferential sealing about the axle 30, thereby preventing contaminants from entering the first and second module housing 11, 21 through the first and second apertures 12, 22. The static seal 40 furthermore puts the snap- fit coupling under an axial load, to provide a secure fit, as well as to account for creep and relaxation of the coupling materials.

[0074] Figure 6 shows another example of a modular system 100, here comprising three modules 10, 20, 30. The modules 10, 20, 30 are concatenated in axial direction, i.e. in the direction of the rotation axis Al. Here, the three modules 10, 20, 30 are similar, and each include an actuatable element for being a actuated by an actuator of a further module that is not shown in figure 6. The further module may for example be similar to the first module as shown in figures 1-5. The modules shown in this example are similar to the second module as shown in figures 1-5. At least the intermediate module 20 in this example is configured for interfacing with two modules, via two coupling interfaces on opposing sides of its housing.

[0075] Figures 7A-7C show another example of a modular system 100, comprising a first module 10 and a second module 20 couplable to each other via coupling interface as described herein. The first module 10 is similar to the first module 10 as described in conjunction with the example of figures 1-5. The first module 10 in this example, however, includes a lateral electrical connector 16, instead of an axial electrical connector as described in conjunction with the example of figures 1-5. The second module is substantially different from the example described in conjunction with the example of figures 1-5. Here, the second module 20 comprises a mechanically actuatable valve. The valve is actuatable by means of the axle 30, which is driven in rotation about the rotation axis Al by the actuator held by the first module housing 11. Hence, here, the coupling interface does not include electrical connectors. The coupling interface in this example does comprise snap-fit couplers 15, 25, and a static seal 40, similar to the example shown in figures 1-5. The actuator held by the first module housing 11 is electrically connectable via the electrical connector 16 to an external actuator controller. The actuator controller may for example be remote from the system 100.

[0076] Figures 8A-8B show another example of a modular system 100, comprising a first module 10 and a second module 20, couplable to each other via coupling interface as described herein. Here, the first module 10 is similar to the first module 10 as described in conjunction with the example of figures 1-5. Here, the second module 20 is similar to the second module 20 as described in conjunction with the example of figures 7A-7C.

[0077] In this example, the system comprises two first modules 10 and two second modules 20, each first module 10 being coupled with any respective one of the second modules 20. Like in the example described in conjunction with figures 7A-7C, the first module part 20a does not include any electronics and therefore does not need to be electrically connected, while the first module 10 includes an actuator for being controlled by an external and remote actuator controller.

[0078] In this example, the system 100 includes an intermediate member 60. The intermediate member 60 is arranged in the coupled state between the first and second modules 10, 20 and provides an electronic hub for each of the first modules 10. The intermediate member 60 is provided in this example with electrical, here male, connectors 26, for being electrically connected to any respective one of the first modules 10. Each of the electrical connectors 26 is connected to a terminal connector 61, which in turn is configured for connecting to the remote actuator controller, e.g. a central control unit of the vehicle. The terminal connector 61 is hence connected to each of the electrical connectors 26, wherein control signals are distributed from the terminal connector 61 to the respective electrical connectors 26. The intermediate member 60 is provided with, here, two through holes 62, 63 for receiving respective axles 30 therethrough. The through holes 62, 63 are thus arranged for being aligned with the first aperture 12 and second aperture 22 of the respective first and second module 10, 20.

[0079] It will be appreciated that the intermediate member 60 can be part of the second module 10, 20. Hence, the second module 20 can be configured for interfacing with two first modules 10 via two identical coupling interfaces. The second module 20 may hence include two respective apertures for receiving two respective axles 30 therethrough, wherein the two respective apertures may at least in part be formed by the respective through holes 62, 63. These two apertures 62, 63 of the second module 20 may for example be referred to as a second aperture 62 and a fourth aperture 63, which are here arranged on the same side of the second module 20 and extend in parallel planes. The second aperture 62 and the fourth aperture 63 may be brought in interfacing alignment with respective apertures 12 of the two first modules 10, which for example are referred to as a first aperture and a third aperture respectively. It will also be appreciated that the intermediate member 60 can alternatively be part of the first module 10, such that the first module 10 can be configured for interfacing with two second modules 20 via two identical coupling interfaces.

[0080] Figure 9 shows an example of a system 100 similar to the example shown in figures 8A-8B, but wherein the intermediate member 60 is composed of two separate parts, here a base part 64 and a circuitry part 65 that includes electrical distribution circuitry between the terminal connector 61 and the different electrical connectors 26.

[0081] Herein, the invention is described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made therein, without departing from the essence of the invention. For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, alternative embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described in these separate embodiments are also envisaged.

[0082] However, other modifications, variations, and alternatives are also possible. The specifications, drawings and examples are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than in a restrictive sense. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other features or steps than those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ shall not be construed as limited to ‘only one’, but instead are used to mean ‘at least one’, and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage.

Claims

Claims1. A coupling interface between a first module and a second module of a modular actuation system for a vehicle, the first module comprising a first module housing provided at a first side thereof with a first aperture that extends in a first plane for receiving a rotatable axle therethrough, and the second module comprising a second module housing different from the first module housing, provided at a second side thereof with a second aperture that extends in a second plane for receiving the rotatable axle therethrough, wherein the coupling interface comprises complementary snap-fit couplers respectively associated with the second side of the second module housing and the first side of the first module housing, and configured for being brought in a snap-fit coupling engagement by translating the first and second module housings towards each other in an insertion direction transverse to the first plane and the second plane; comprising a static seal for being engaged between the first module housing and the second module housing to provide a static circumferential sealing about the first aperture and the second aperture, wherein the coupling interface is configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, engaging the static seal between the first module housing and the second module housing so as to establish the static circumferential sealing.

2. The coupling interface of claim 1, comprising at least one male electrical connector and a complementary female electrical connector,associated with a respective one of the second side of the second module housing and the first side of the first module housing, the male electrical connector and the female electrical connector being arranged to mate in the insertion direction; wherein the coupling interface is configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, establishing an electrical connection between the male and female connector.

3. The interface of claim 1 or 2, wherein the static seal is held by one of the first module or second module.

4. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the first module is free of a dynamic seal for sealing between the rotatable axle and the first module housing, and / or wherein the second module is free of a dynamic seal for sealing between the rotatable axle and the second module housing.

5. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein one of first module or second module comprises an adapter for being rotationally coupled to the rotatable axle, and wherein the coupling interface comprises complementary rotational coupling structures respectively associated with the adapter and the rotatable axle for rotationally coupling the adapter to the axle in a torque transferring manner, the coupling interface being configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, establishing a rotational coupling between the adapter to the rotatable axle.

6. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the snap-fit couplers include axial constraining elements for, in the snap-fit coupling engagement, constraining a movement the first and second module housings relative to each other in a direction opposite the insertion direction.

7. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the snap-fit couplers are circumferentially arranged about respectively the first aperture and the second aperture.

8. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling interface comprises rotational constraining elements respectively associated with the first side and the second side configured for supporting torque between the first and second module housings relative to each other about an axis parallel to insertion direction.

9. The interface of claim 8, wherein at least one of the rotational constraining elements is laterally spaced from the snap-fit couplers, and configured for being brought in coupling engagement by translating the first and second module housings towards each other in the insertion direction.

10. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the snap-fit couplers are configured for not supporting torque between the first and second module housing.

11. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the snap-fit couplers are arranged for allowing rotation of the first module housing relative to the second module housing about an axis parallel to the insertion direction.

12. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling interface is configured for providing a uni-orientational form fit between the first module housing to the second module housing, for coupling the first module to the second module in only one relative orientation.

13. The interface of claim 11 or 12, wherein the coupling interface comprises a protruding housing portion associated with one of the first or second side, and a complementary recessed housing portion associated with another one of the first or second side, the protruding and recessed housing portions being arranged for providing the uni-orientational form -fit between the first module housing the second module housing and / or for constraining a rotational movement of the first and second module housings relative to each other about an axis parallel to insertion direction.

14. The interface of to claim 13, wherein the male electrical connector and the female electrical connector are associated with a respective one of the protruding housing portion or the recessed housing portion.

15. The interface any preceding claim, comprising a further seal for providing a circumferential sealing about the electrical connection between the male connector and the female connector.

16. The interface of claim 15 when dependent on claim 13, wherein the further seal is arranged for being radially engaged between the protruding housing portion and the recessed housing portion.

17. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the snap-fit couplers are arranged for blocking rotation of the first module housing relative to the second module housing about an axis parallel to the insertion direction.

18. The interface of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling interface includes a first housing portion of the first module housing at the first side and a second housing portion of the second module housing at the second side, the first and second housing portions being spaced apart from the snap-fit couplers and bound respective internal cavities, wherein thecoupling interface is configured for, by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in the snap-fit coupling engagement, positioning the first housing portion and the second housing portion in close proximity to each other, particularly defining a gap therebetween of at most 2 mm, particularly at most 1 mm, optionally in abutting contact with each other.

19. A modular actuation system for a vehicle, comprising a first module, a second module, and a coupling interface between the first module and the second module in accordance with any of the preceding claims.

20. The system of claim 19, comprising the rotatable axle extending through the first aperture and the second aperture.

21. The system of claim 19 or 20, wherein one of the first module or the second module comprises an electrical actuator for rotationally driving the axle about a rotation axis.

22. The system of claim 21, comprising an actuator controller for controlling the actuator, the actuator controller being remote from said one of the first module or second module.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein another one of the first module or the second module comprises the actuator controller.

24. The system of any of claims 19-23, wherein the second module housing is provided with a fourth aperture that extends in a fourth plane, for receiving a rotatable axle therethrough, and wherein the system comprisesa third module comprising a third module housing provided at a third side thereof with a third aperture that extends in a third plane for receiving a further rotatable axle therethrough, and a further coupling interface between the third module and the second module, the further interface being in accordance with any of claims 1-18.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the fourth aperture is provided at a side of the second module housing opposite the second side and extends in a plane parallel to the second plane for receiving the rotatable axle therethrough.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the fourth aperture is provided at the second side of the second module housing and extends in the second plane for receiving a further rotatable axle therethrough.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the second module comprises distribution circuitry having a single terminal connector for connecting the distribution circuitry to a remote processing unit, the distribution circuitry being arranged for distributing electric signals from the single terminal connector to any of the electrical connectors of the coupling interface or the further interface.

28. A method of assembling a modular actuation system for a vehicle by coupling a first module to a second module, wherein a coupling interface according to any of claims 1-18 is provided between the first module and the second module, the method comprising: orienting the first module and the second module such that the first plane and the second plane extend in parallel with the first aperture aligned with the second aperture,translating the first module and the second module toward one another in a direction transverse to the first and second planes so as to bring the first module housing and the second module housing in a snap-fit coupling engagement with each other, and by bringing the first module housing and the second module housing in a snap -fit coupling engagement with each other, establishing one or more of:- a circumferential sealing about the first and second aperture by engaging a seal between the first module housing and the second module housing;- an electrical connection between the male connector and the female connector;- a circumferential sealing about the male and female connector;- a rotational coupling between the adapter to the rotatable axle;- positioning the first housing portion and the second housing portion in close proximity to each other, defining a gap between the first housing portion and the second housing portion of at most 2 mm other.

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