Handle element for a leaf element of a vehicle, leaf element for a vehicle, and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a handle element (4) for a leaf element (2) of a vehicle (1), comprising an operating element (10), by means of which a lock can be electrically unlocked by operating the operating element (10). The operating element (10) has a support element (11) which can be connected to a strain gauge (12, 13). An actuating element (15, 16) is provided which can be actuated by exerting a force on an outer skin (14) of the handle element (4), said force being provided for operating the operating element (10), and by means of which at least one sub-region (T1, T2) of the support element (11) can undergo a deformation process which can be detected by means of the strain gauge (12, 13), a signal being suppliable which characterizes the detected deformation and by means of which the lock can be electrically unlocked. The actuating element (15, 16) and the support element (11) are form-fittingly connected to one another and / or are integrally bonded to one another and / or are connected to one another by means of at least one screw connection.

Description

[0001] 24-2400 PIF

[0002] 1

[0003] Handle element for a wing element of a vehicle, wing element for a vehicle and vehicle

[0004] The invention relates to a handle element for a wing element of a vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a wing element for a vehicle, comprising at least one such handle element. The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising at least one such wing element.

[0005] WO 2007 / 118552 A1 discloses a motor vehicle with a vehicle door comprising a lower door section and an upper window section separated by a window sill. WO 2020 / 01137 A1 discloses a device for operating a vehicle door, including a sensor device configured to detect a force acting on the vehicle door and to generate corresponding sensor data. Furthermore, DE 102017202 114 A1 discloses a motor vehicle with at least one side door comprising a door body. WO 2006 / 007916 A1 also discloses a motor vehicle door with an inner module and an outer module.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to create a handle element for a wing element of a vehicle, a wing element for a vehicle and a vehicle, so that a particularly advantageous operation of the wing element can be realized.

[0007] This problem is solved according to the invention by a handle element with the features of claim 1, by a wing element with the features of claim 11, and by a vehicle with the features of claim 12. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0008] A first aspect of the invention relates to a handle element for a wing element of a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle. This means that the vehicle, preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a motor car and most especially as a passenger car, in its fully manufactured state comprises the wing element and the handle element, wherein the handle element is a component 24-2400 PIF

[0009] 2 of the wing element, thus the wing element includes the handle element. The wing element is understood to be a structural component that is movable, in particular pivotable, and held, that is, arranged or arranged, on a vehicle body, for example, a self-supporting body, whose interior, also referred to as passenger cell, passenger compartment, or cabin, is formed by the body. In the fully manufactured state of the vehicle, the wing element is therefore designed separately from the body and is movable, in particular pivotable, and held on the body. Specifically, the wing element is associated with a body opening. The wing element can be moved, in particular pivoted, relative to the body between a closed position and at least one open position. In the closed position, the wing element closes at least a portion of the body opening.In the open position, the wing element exposes a portion of the opening in the vehicle body, which is typically designed as a passageway. This wing element can be, for example, a door, particularly a side door, so the opening can be configured as a side or rear door. The door is also referred to as a vehicle door. Thus, in the open position, a person initially in the vicinity of the vehicle and therefore the wing element can enter the interior through the exposed portion of the opening. Furthermore, a person initially inside the vehicle can exit through the exposed portion of the opening and thereby access the surrounding area.It is therefore specifically intended that the opening in the bodywork leads into the interior at one end and into the surroundings of the vehicle at the other. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the wing element is a flap such as a tailgate or a front flap. For example, the wing element could be a trunk lid, a trunk cover, or a hood. Thus, the opening in the bodywork could be, for example, a side or rear door opening, or a front or rear storage compartment opening, so that, for example, a storage compartment, particularly the trunk, at the front or rear of the vehicle could be accessed via the portion of the opening exposed when the wing element is in the open position. Therefore, the wing element is a separate add-on component, designed independently of the bodywork, which is movable, in particular pivotable, and can be attached to or arranged on the bodywork. 24-2400 PIF.

[0010] 3

[0011] The handle element includes a control element by which, upon operation of the control element, a lock can be electrically unlocked. This lock secures the wing element, which is movable, in particular pivotable, between the closed position and at least one open position, on the vehicle body in the closed position, particularly relative to the body. This means that the control element allows for the electrical unlocking of the lock. In particular, when the wing element is designed as a door, especially a side door, of the vehicle, the lock is a door lock. Specifically, the lock can be an integral part of the wing element and thus movable, in particular pivotable, with the wing element relative to the body between the closed position and at least one open position.

[0012] Preferably, the handle element is, for example, an external handle element, particularly one located on the outside of the door, which is thus arranged, for example, on the outer side of the wing element. Especially when the wing element is a door, particularly a side door, the handle element is therefore an external handle element, i.e., an external door handle, which is also referred to as an external door handle or door handle. The handle element is arranged on the outer side of the wing element, with the outer side of the wing element, in its installed position and in the closed position, facing away from the interior and towards the surroundings of the vehicle, particularly in the transverse direction of the vehicle. The wing element assumes its installed position in the fully manufactured state of the vehicle containing the wing element.

[0013] The lock can be adjusted, for example, between a locked and an unlocked state. Unlocking the lock moves it from the locked to the unlocked state. If the sash is in the closed position and the lock is in the locked position, the sash is secured in the closed position by the lock, particularly by positive locking, and thus against unwanted movement relative to the structure into the open position. To open the sash, i.e., to move it from the closed to the open position, the operating element is operated, particularly by a person. This electrically unlocks the lock, thus electrically moving it from the locked to the unlocked state, so that the lock 24-2400 PIF

[0014] 4. The wing element is released for movement relative to the body from the closed position to the open position. For example, a locking element, such as a locking bolt (also referred to as a lock bolt or locking bar), is attached to the body, in particular to a vehicle pillar of the body, such as a door pillar (also referred to as a body pillar or body pillar). In the closed position of the wing element and in the locked state of the lock, the lock, in particular a lock latch designed as a rotary and / or fork latch, interacts with the locking element, in particular in a positive-locking manner, thereby securing the wing element in the closed position, in particular in a positive-locking manner.For example, the lock has a first locking element, which can be, for instance, the aforementioned locking latch, in particular designed as a rotary and / or fork latch. In the closed position of the wing element and in the locked state of the lock, the lock, in particular the first locking element, interacts with a second locking element, which is, for example, the aforementioned locking element. The second locking element is attached, at least indirectly, in particular directly, to the structure, in particular to the aforementioned vehicle pillar, in particular in such a way that relative movements between the second locking element and the structure, in particular between the second locking element and the vehicle pillar, are prevented.It is conceivable that the opening in the vehicle's longitudinal direction, particularly towards the rear or front, is at least partially, and in particular at least predominantly, and thus at least more than halfway, or even completely, and in particular directly, limited by the vehicle pillar. In particular, when the wing element is closed and the lock is engaged, the first lock element engages positively with the second lock element. Because the first lock element engages positively with the second lock element when the wing element is closed and the lock is engaged, the wing element is secured in the closed position, in particular positively.For example, the first lock element can be moved relative to a reference element of the lock, and in particular relative to the second lock element (latching element), between a locked position and an unlocked position, especially translationally and / or rotationally. In the closed position of the sash element and in the locked position of the first lock element, and thus in the locked state of the lock, the first lock element engages, in particular positively, with the second lock element 24-2400 PIF.

[0015] 5 together, whereby the wing element is secured or secured in the closed position, particularly relative to the structure. For example, by unlocking the lock, the first lock element is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, in which the first lock element no longer interacts with the second lock element. This releases the wing element for movement relative to the structure from the closed position to the open position. The feature that the lock can be electrically unlocked by operating the control element, and thus an electrical unlocking of the lock can be effected, means in particular that, for example, as a result of operating the control element, an electrically operated lock actuator, which is designed, for example, as an electric motor, is electrically actuated.This electrical control of the lock actuator enables it to be electrically operated, allowing the first lock element to be moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, primarily using electrical energy. This means that the first lock element is moved electrically from the locked position to the unlocked position, thereby unlocking the lock electrically, i.e., using the aforementioned electrical energy.Following the electrical unlocking of the lock, the movement of the sash element from the closed position to the open position can, for example, be effected manually by a person, or by the aforementioned person, in particular by the person manually exerting a force, especially a pulling or pushing force, on the sash element, particularly via the handle element, thus moving the sash element relative to the structure from the closed position to the open position. Furthermore, it is conceivable that, as a result of operating the control element, the sash element can be moved electrically, i.e., using electrical energy, from the closed position to the open position relative to the structure, or is moved at all, particularly after the lock has been electrically unlocked.For this purpose, an electrically operated motion device is provided, which includes, for example, the aforementioned electrically operated lock actuator and / or at least one other electrically operated actuator. As a result of operating the control element, the motion device is activated, in particular electrically, thereby electrically operating the motion device. This allows the motion device to move, in particular pivot, the wing element from the closed position to the open position relative to the structure, using electrical energy. Thus, the lock can be operated with particular ease. 24-2400 PIF.

[0016] 6. The sash can be unlocked, and the sash can be opened particularly conveniently, thus moving from the closed position to the open position. The lock actuator can be integrated into the sash.

[0017] In order to achieve particularly advantageous operation and thus handling of the wing element, the invention provides that the operating element comprises a support element, also referred to as a substrate or carrier, preferably designed as a solid and most preferably inherently rigid, which is provided with at least one strain gauge. The support element is provided with the strain gauge, which is formed separately from the support element, such that the strain gauge is applied to the support element, that is, in particular to a surface of the support element, especially directly, so that the strain gauge is arranged, for example, in particular directly, on the support element, especially on the surface of the support element. The feature that the support element is preferably inherently rigid means that the support element is preferably dimensionally stable.The characteristic that an element, such as the support element, is inherently rigid and therefore dimensionally stable, is to be understood within the scope of the present disclosure as meaning that the element is not an element which, for example, is flexible like a piece of fabric or a tensioning element designed as a rope, and is therefore dimensionally unstable and can only transmit tensile forces but not compressive forces, but rather the element retains its shape independently when considered in isolation, so that both compressive and tensile forces can be transmitted via the element.

[0018] The handle element has an outer skin, also referred to as a handle element outer skin, which, when the handle element is fully manufactured, is visually and haptically perceptible to a person in the vicinity of the handle element; that is, it can be seen and directly touched. Specifically, it is intended that, when the vehicle is fully manufactured, the handle element outer skin is visually and haptically perceptible to a person in the vicinity of the vehicle, so that, when the vehicle is fully manufactured, the person in the vicinity can see and directly touch the handle element outer skin. Thus, the handle element outer skin is, for example, the outermost surface of the handle element.In particular, for example, a person in the vicinity of the vehicle may touch the outer skin of the handle element with at least one of their fingers, especially directly, and thereby, for example, damage a 24-2400 PIF.

[0019] 7. For example, force acting as a tensile or compressive force, and also referred to as operating force or actuating force, exerts itself on the outer skin of the handle element and thus also on the handle element itself.

[0020] The handle element also includes an actuating element, which is preferably formed separately from the support element and, more preferably, separately from the strain gauge, and is thus preferably provided in addition to the support element and, more preferably, in addition to the strain gauge. Preferably, the actuating element is designed as a solid body and is inherently rigid, i.e., dimensionally stable. The actuating element can be actuated by exerting the aforementioned actuating force, provided for operating the actuating element, on the outer surface of the handle element. For example, the actuating element can be actuated by exerting the actuating force on the outer surface of the handle element and is thereby movable relative to a reference element of the handle element, which is designed, for example, as a solid body and / or is inherently rigid.In other words, for example, by applying an actuating force to the outer surface of the handle element, a movement of the actuating element relative to the handle's reference element can be effected, thus enabling the actuating element to be actuated. This movement of the actuating element relative to the reference element is, for example, a so-called micro-movement, meaning a very small movement, i.e., a movement over a very short distance, which is, for example, not perceptible to the human eye, or only with great difficulty or to a very slight degree.

[0021] By means of the actuating element, a deformation of at least a portion of the support element can be effected by actuating the actuating element. The portion of the support element that can be deformed by actuating the actuating element is also referred to as the element area. The strain gauge can detect the deformation of the portion of the support element that can be effected by actuating the actuating element, and can provide a signal, in particular an electrical signal, that characterizes the deformation of the portion of the support element detected by the strain gauge. This signal enables the electrical unlocking of the lock. The feature that the electrical unlocking of the lock can be effected by means of the signal means that the lock can be electrically unlocked depending on the signal.In other words, the signal is or will be used to electrically unlock the lock, thus causing the electrical unlocking of the lock. For example, an electronic computing device of the vehicle, in particular 24-2400 PIF.

[0022] 8 of the wing element and in particular of the handle element, receive the signal and, depending on the signal, i.e., depending on the reception of the signal, effect the previously described, in particular electrical, control of the lock actuator, whereby the lock actuator is electrically operated and thereby moves the first lock element from the locking position to the unlocking position.

[0023] The aforementioned element area, i.e., the aforementioned sub-area of ​​the support element, is also referred to as the first sub-area. When the following refers to the sub-area of ​​the support element and the element area, unless otherwise specified, this refers to the first sub-area of ​​the support element. For example, the reference element is or comprises a second sub-area of ​​the support element, whereby the second sub-area can connect directly to the first sub-area of ​​the support element. In particular, it is conceivable that the first sub-area and the second sub-area of ​​the support element are formed as a single unit, i.e., from a single piece.The characteristic that two elements, such as the sub-areas of the support element, are formed in one piece means that the elements are not formed separately from each other and connected to each other, but rather the elements are formed from a single piece and thus formed by a body formed in one piece, i.e., from a single piece and thus integrally manufactured and formed as a monoblock.

[0024] To achieve particularly advantageous operation or operability of the wing element, the invention further provides that the actuating element and the support element, which is preferably designed separately from the actuating element, are connected to each other by means of a positive fit and / or a material bond and / or by means of at least one screw connection. Thus, for example, it is provided that the actuating element and the support element interact positively, thereby connecting the actuating element and the support element to each other in a positive fit. Alternatively or additionally, the support element and the actuating element are connected to each other in a material bond. For this purpose, for example, the support element and the actuating element are bonded to each other, particularly directly, and / or welded to each other and / or soldered to each other and / or riveted to each other and / or connected to each other in a material bond.Alternatively or additionally, the support element and the actuating element are connected by the aforementioned, at least one screw connection 24-2400 PIF.

[0025] 9 connected to each other, so that, for example, the support element and the actuating element can be screwed together, especially directly.

[0026] The actuating element and the support element are collectively referred to as parts. The at least one screw connection, for example, has at least one screw element formed separately from the parts, which, for example, has a first thread. For instance, the screw element is a screw, so that the first thread is an external thread. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the screw element is a nut, so that the first thread is, for example, an internal thread. It is also conceivable that the screw element penetrates a corresponding, in particular unthreaded, through-hole of one of the parts. The characteristic that the through-hole is unthreaded means that no thread is arranged in the through-hole.A second part, for example, has a second thread corresponding to the first thread, which, if the first thread is an external thread, is an internal thread corresponding to the external thread. For example, the second thread is arranged in a threaded opening of the second part, which may be a blind hole or a through hole. The screw element is, for example, screwed to the second part via the first and second threads, particularly directly, or screwed into the second part, such that the first and second threads are directly screwed together, particularly such that the first thread is screwed directly into the second thread. The screw element may, for example, be designed separately from the parts. The aforementioned screw element is also referred to as the first screw element.Furthermore, it would be conceivable for the screw connection to have a first screw element formed separately from the parts and, for example, a second screw element, which is formed separately from the parts and separately from the first screw element. The first screw element is, for example, a screw having a first thread, particularly in the form of an external thread. The second screw element is, for example, a nut having a second thread, particularly in the form of an internal thread. It is conceivable that the first screw element penetrates a first through-hole of the first part, particularly one that is unthreaded, and a second through-hole of the second part, particularly one that is unthreaded, wherein, for example, the first through-hole and the second through-hole are arranged in at least partial mutual overlap.For example, the second screw element is connected via the first thread and the second thread, in particular directly, 24-2400 PIF.

[0027] 10. The first screw element is screwed to the first screw element, in particular such that the first screw element is screwed directly onto the first screw element. The first thread and the second thread are screwed together, in particular directly, in particular such that the first thread is screwed directly into the second thread. It is conceivable that the first screw element is formed separately from the parts and separately from the second screw element, which in turn is formed separately from the parts and separately from the first screw element. For example, the first screw element and the second screw element are movable relative to each other and relative to the respective part, in particular to screw the screw elements together.Furthermore, it would be conceivable that the first screw element is fixedly and thus immovably connected to the first part, in particular such that the first screw element is formed separately from the first part and fixedly and thus immovably connected to the first part, or that the first screw element and the first part are formed in one piece, i.e., from a single component. In this case, for example, the first screw element projects from a base area of ​​the first part that is directly adjacent to the first screw element, particularly without the first screw element penetrating a through-opening in the first part. In this case, for example, the first screw element penetrates the through-opening of the second part, and the second screw element is, for example, screwed to the first screw element, in particular screwed onto the first screw element, whereby the parts are screwed together, in particular directly.

[0028] In the invention, the actuating element and the support element are connected to each other by means of a positive fit and / or a material fit and / or by means of at least one screw connection, thus preventing excessive relative movements between the support element and the actuating element that occur when the actuating element is actuated. This allows the deformation of the support element to be advantageously caused by actuating the actuating element, and the strain gauge can advantageously detect this deformation.Since the invention avoids excessive relative movements between the actuating element and the support element that occur during actuation of the actuating element, an unfavorable, especially temporal, course of the signal and thus, for example, undesirable jumps of the signal, also referred to as signal jumps, can also be avoided, so that the deformation of the support element that can be effected or is effected by means of the strain gauge by actuating the actuating element is advantageously 24-2400 PIF.

[0029] 11. The invention is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: Under environmental conditions such as humidity, dust, temperature fluctuations, etc., materials and / or components, especially different ones, expand differently. This can negatively affect the strain gauge signal, in particular to such an extent that changes or fluctuations in the signal can occur. Initial tests have shown non-linear jumps in the signal. It was suspected that these jumps in the signal could result from the actuating element unintentionally slipping off the support element during its actuation. However, such non-linear jumps cannot be reliably evaluated, as it cannot be determined with certainty whether the strain gauge signal results from actual operation of the actuating element by a person or from an environmental influence.If the signal results from actual operation of the actuating element, but the lock is not electrically unlocked, this is disadvantageous for the person who operated the actuating element, as they cannot then open the wing element. If the signal results from an environmental influence and the lock is electrically unlocked, this leads to an undesired electrical unlocking of the lock. Both scenarios are disadvantageous and can now be avoided by the invention. The positive-locking and / or material-locking and / or screwed connection between the actuating element and the support element prevents non-linear jumps in the signal. In particular, the electrical voltage of the signal can remain at least substantially linear, especially under temperature fluctuations, when the actuating element is not being operated or actuated.This results in a high degree of signal robustness, allowing for precise and reliable determination of whether the actuator has actually been operated, i.e., whether it was activated by a person or not. This enables, for example, the electrical unlocking of the lock when desired by a person, and prevents unwanted electrical unlocking of the lock.

[0030] In order to achieve advantageous operation of the control element and thus of the handle element and consequently of the wing element, the actuating element is preferably designed separately from the support element.

[0031] The handle element, for example, has an outer element which forms at least a partial area of ​​the outer skin of the handle element. This partial area of ​​the outer skin of the handle element is also referred to as the outer skin partial area. Preferably, it is provided that 24-2400 PIF

[0032] 12 The support element, the strain gauge, and the actuating element are arranged on an inner surface of the outer element facing away from the outer skin area. For example, the outer element surrounds and / or delimits a receiving area of ​​the handle element facing away from the outer skin area, wherein the actuating element, the support element, and the strain gauge are arranged in the receiving area. For example, the actuating element projects from the outer element, in particular from the inner surface of the outer element, preferably in the direction of the support element. It is conceivable that the actuating element is formed separately from the outer element and is connected to the outer element at least indirectly, in particular directly, in such a way that relative movements between the actuating element and the outer element are prevented.Furthermore, it is conceivable that the actuating element and the outer element are formed as a single unit, i.e., from a single piece. For example, the outer element is a housing for the handle element, also referred to as a housing, in which, for example, the support element, the actuating element, and the strain gauge can be arranged within the housing element.

[0033] In order to be able to operate the control element and thus the applicable and the wing element particularly advantageously, it is provided in a further embodiment of the invention that the actuating element is connected to the partial area of ​​the support element in a form-fitting and / or material-fitting manner and / or by means of the at least one screw connection.

[0034] Another embodiment is characterized in that the actuating element is positively and / or materially connected to the support element, in particular to the portion of the support element, and / or by means of at least one screw connection, thereby preventing relative movements between the actuating element and the support element. This avoids undesirable, especially non-linear, signal jumps, allowing for a robust determination, and in particular detection, of whether the actuating element has actually been operated or not.

[0035] In a further, particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the support element, in particular the portion thereof, has a recess into which the actuating element engages, thereby positively connecting the actuating element and the support element. 24-2400 PIF

[0036] 13

[0037] This allows the support element and the actuating element to be connected to each other in a particularly simple form-fitting manner, thus enabling robust detection of the operation of the control element.

[0038] In order to reliably detect actual operation of the control element and thus achieve a particularly advantageous operation of the wing element as a whole, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the support element has a tab projecting from a base body of the support element, which is preferably formed integrally with the base body. The tab is arcuate, in particular circular arcuate, at least along a portion of its length, and the actuating element is connected to the arcuate portion of the tab by means of a positive fit and / or a material fit and / or by means of at least one screw connection. In particular, the tab is or forms at least a portion of the part of the support element that can be deformed by actuating the actuating element.By actuating the actuating element, the tab can be deformed particularly advantageously, especially elastically, whereby at least the portion of the support element is advantageously deformable. Thus, the operation of the actuating element can be advantageously controlled.

[0039] In particular, the deformation of the support element caused or achievable by actuating the actuating element is to be understood as a reversible, i.e., non-destructive, deformation of the support element, such that the deformation of the support element does not result in destruction or damage. Specifically, the deformation of the support element is an elastic deformation of the support element.

[0040] Preferably, the support element, in particular the tab, rests directly against the actuating element and thus directly contacts it. In particular, the support element, especially the tab, rests directly against the actuating element with a preload, so that the support element, in particular the tab, is directly tensioned against the actuating element, i.e., pre-tensioned. This allows the support element to be deformed particularly advantageously, especially elastically, by actuating the actuating element, thereby enabling robust control of the operating element. 24-2400 PIF

[0041] 14

[0042] In order to achieve particularly advantageous operation or operability of the wing element, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the arcuate length of the tab has a recess. This allows the tab, and thus the portion of the support element, to be advantageously, and in particular elastically, deformed by means of the actuating element, thereby enabling robust control, i.e., the activation of a condition of the operating element.

[0043] In a further, particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the arcuate length of the tab is curved towards the actuating element, and thus convexly curved when viewed from the actuating element. This allows the tab, and therefore the portion of the support element, to be deformed particularly advantageously, and especially elastically, by means of the actuating element, thereby ensuring reliable and robust control of the actual operation of the control element by a person. This guarantees advantageous operation or operability of the wing element as a whole.

[0044] In a further, particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the actuating element is made of a first material and the support element is made of a second material different from the first. This allows, for example, the support element to be deformed particularly advantageously, and especially elastically, by means of the actuating element, thereby ensuring reliable and robust control of the operating element. This prevents unwanted electrical unlocking of the lock, and the lock can be electrically unlocked only when and, in particular, always when this is actually desired by a person who has operated the control element.

[0045] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first material is a plastic. This allows the support element to be deformed particularly advantageously, especially elastically, by means of the actuating element.

[0046] Finally, it has proven particularly advantageous if the second material is a metallic material, especially steel. This allows the support element to be deformed advantageously and non-destructively, i.e., reversibly, by means of the actuating element, so that even over a long service life of the handle element and the wing element, actual operation of the control element by a person can be reliably and robustly detected. 24-2400 PIF

[0047] 15

[0048] A second aspect of the invention relates to a wing element for a vehicle, comprising at least one handle element according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0049] A third aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle, preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a motor car and most especially as a passenger car, which has at least one wing element according to the second aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first and second aspects of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the third aspect of the invention and vice versa.

[0050] Also disclosed is an operating device by means of which, for example, a device can be operated, in particular such that at least one input into the device can be made via the operating device. More specifically, the operating device can be operated by a person, particularly one located in the vicinity of the operating device, thereby enabling, for example, the aforementioned input into the device. Thus, the operating device is, for example, an input device, also referred to as an input device, via which the input into the device can be made by the aforementioned person. For example, the operating device is a game controller, also referred to as a game controller or controller. The operating device has a support element, preferably designed as a solid and / or inherently rigid, and thus dimensionally stable, which is provided with at least one strain gauge.The operating device also includes an actuating element, which can be actuated by exerting a force, also referred to as an actuating force, on an outer surface of the operating device. As already explained in the first aspect of the invention, the outer surface of the operating device is a surface that is visually and haptically perceptible to a person in the vicinity of the operating device. When the operating device is fully assembled, this outer surface can be seen and directly touched by such a person. By exerting the actuating force on the outer surface of the operating device, the person can operate the device and thereby perform, execute, or execute the aforementioned input, i.e., input data into the device.By means of the actuating element, a 24-2400 PIF can be achieved by actuating the actuating element, in particular reversibly and therefore non-destructively.

[0051] 16. In particular, elastic deformation of at least a partial area of ​​the support element can be effected. The deformation of the partial area of ​​the support element can be detected by means of the strain gauge, and a signal characterizing the detected deformation, in particular an electrical signal, can be provided. The actuating element and the support element are connected to each other by means of a positive fit and / or a material fit and / or by means of at least one screw connection. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the operating device, and vice versa. For example, the signal can effect input into the device, i.e., it can be carried out. For example, the signal can be used to effect a function of the device, which can thereby be operated by means of the operating device. The device can include the operating device.

[0052] Further details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment with the accompanying drawings. These show:

[0053] Fig. 1 shows a partial schematic perspective view of a vehicle with at least one wing element; and

[0054] Fig. 2 shows a partial schematic and cut perspective view of a handle element of the wing element.

[0055] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0056] Fig. 1 shows a partial schematic perspective view of a vehicle 1, in this case designed as a passenger car, whose interior, also referred to as passenger compartment, passenger space, or cabin, is formed by a body structure of the vehicle 1, in particular designed as a self-supporting body. During a journey, persons such as the driver of the vehicle 1 can be present in the interior. The vehicle 1 has at least one wing element 2, which is designed as a door, in particular as a side door, and is therefore also referred to as a vehicle door. A body opening, in particular a lateral opening and preferably designed as a through-opening, is associated with the wing element 2, the body opening being designed in this case as a side door opening. The wing element 2 is attached to the body structure between 24 and 2400 PIF.

[0057] 17 is held, and thus arranged, in a closed position shown in Fig. 1 and in at least one open position not shown in the figures, relative to the body, movable, in particular pivotable. The body opening opens at one end into the interior and at the other end into the surroundings of the vehicle 1. In the closed position of the wing element 2 shown in Fig. 1, at least a portion of the body opening is closed by the wing element 2. In the open position, the wing element 2 releases at least the portion of the body opening, so that, for example, a person initially in the surroundings of the vehicle 1, designated 3, can enter the interior via the released portion of the body opening. Furthermore, for example, a person initially in the interior can exit the interior via the released portion of the body opening and thus reach or access the surroundings 3.

[0058] The wing element 2 has a handle element 4, which is designed on the outside and thus serves as an external door handle, and is also simply referred to as the external door handle. In principle, it would be conceivable that the handle element 4 is movable relative to at least one base element of the wing element 2 from a starting position AS to an operating position, in particular translationally and / or rotationally. In particular, for example, in the embodiment shown in the figures, the handle element 4 is held on the aforementioned base element in such a way that the handle element 4 is movable relative to the base element from the starting position AS to the operating position, in particular rotationally and / or translationally.

[0059] The wing element 2, for example, has a lock (not shown in detail in the figures), also referred to as a door lock, by means of which the wing element 2 is secured or locked in the closed position relative to the structure. The lock can be adjusted between a locked and an unlocked state. If the wing element 2 is in the closed position while the lock is in its locked state, the wing element 2 is held in the closed position relative to the structure by the lock, in particular by a positive locking mechanism. By unlocking the lock, the lock can be moved or is moved from the locked state to the unlocked state. In the unlocked state, the lock releases the wing element 2 for movement relative to the structure from the closed to the open position. 24-2400 PIF

[0060] 18

[0061] By moving the handle element 4 from the initial position AS to the operating position, the lock can be unlocked mechanically, in particular purely mechanically and thus without the use of electrical energy, and thus moved from the locked state to the unlocked state. The sash element 2, for example, has a rough frame, also referred to as the door frame. Furthermore, the sash element 2 has an outer cladding element 5, also referred to simply as the paneling element, which is, for example, formed separately from the rough frame and is held at least indirectly, in particular directly, by the rough frame. Thus, for example, at least a partial area of ​​the rough frame facing the surroundings 3 is covered and thus clad by the outer cladding element 5, at least in the closed position of the sash element 2.The wing element 2 has an outer skin, also referred to as the overall outer skin 6, which, at least in the closed position of the wing element 2, is visually and haptically perceptible to a person in the vicinity 3, i.e., can be seen and, in particular, directly touched. A first area B1 of the overall outer skin 6 is formed by the outer cladding element 5. A second area B2 of the overall outer skin 6 is formed by the handle element 4, i.e., by an outer skin of the handle element 4, also referred to as the handle element outer skin.

[0062] It is evident that the handle element 4 is arranged on an outer surface A of the wing element 2 and is therefore an external, in particular door-side, handle element. In the closed position of the wing element 2, the outer surface A, particularly in the transverse direction of the vehicle 1, faces outwards away from the interior and towards the surroundings 3. For example, a third area of ​​the overall outer skin 6 is formed by an outer trim element of the wing element 2, also referred to as a cover or simply as a panel element, such that, for example, the third area of ​​the overall outer skin 6 is formed by an element outer skin of the cover.By means of the cover, at least in the closed position of the wing element 2, at least a portion of a vehicle pillar of the body, also referred to as a body pillar or frame pillar, is overlapped and thereby covered outwards, particularly in the transverse direction of the vehicle 1, where the vehicle pillar is, for example, a B-pillar. For example, the body opening of the body associated with the wing element 2 is at least partially limited to the rear in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 1 by the vehicle pillar. For example, the outer paneling element 5 and the cover are immovable relative to each other. 24-2400 PIF.

[0063] 19

[0064] As can be seen from Fig. 1, the wing element 2, which is designed here as a door, in particular as a side door, has a door sill 7, also referred to as a parapet or window sill. Furthermore, the wing element 2 comprises a translucent side pane 8, also simply referred to as a pane, which is displaceable relative to the vehicle body and relative to the outer cladding element 5, for example, in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1, in particular at least in the closed position of the wing element 2. Specifically, the side pane 8 is movable, i.e., repositionable, between a closed position shown in Fig. 1 and an open position relative to the vehicle body and relative to the outer cladding element 5. The door sill 7 defines a pane area 9, also referred to as a window area, which is bounded downwards in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1, at least with respect to the closed position of the wing element 2.In the embodiment shown in the figures, the pane area 9 is a window opening, which is bounded, for example, by a window frame of the sash element 2, wherein the window frame can, for example, encompass or form the door sill 7. In the closed position of the side pane 8, the side pane 8 is arranged in the pane area 9, also referred to as the window area, in particular such that the pane area 9 is at least partially, and in particular at least predominantly and thus at least more than halfway or completely, closed by the side pane 8.In particular, it is provided that, in the closed position of the side window 8, the door sill 7, in the installation position of the wing element 2, and in the closed position of the wing element 2, in the vehicle 1's vertical direction, adjoins the side window 8 downwards, wherein the wing element 2 assumes its installation position in the fully manufactured state of the vehicle 1, and wherein the installation position of the wing element 2 is shown in Fig. 1. It can be seen that, at least in the closed position of the wing element 2 and at least in the initial position AS, and preferably also in the operating position, the handle element 4 is arranged in the vehicle 1's vertical direction above the door sill 7.In the open position of the side window 8, the side window 8 exposes at least a partial area of ​​the window area 9, wherein in the open position of the side window 8 at least a window area of ​​the side window 8 is arranged in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1 below the door sill 7, at least with respect to the closed position of the sash element 2. In the closed position of the side window 8, the aforementioned window area is arranged in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1 above the door sill 7 and thereby within the window area 9, at least with respect to the closed position of the sash element 2. Since in the open position of the side window 8 at least the 24-2400 PIF.

[0065] 20

[0066] Since the window area 9 is arranged in the vehicle's vertical direction below the door sill 7, in the open position of the side window 8 at least the window area of ​​the side window 8 is outside the window area 9 and in particular in the vehicle's vertical direction below the window area 9, at least with regard to the closed position of the wing element 2.

[0067] By moving the handle element 4 from the starting position AS to the operating position, particularly relative to the base element, the lock can be unlocked mechanically, in particular purely mechanically and thus using electrical energy.

[0068] As can be seen from Fig. 2, the handle element 4 has a control element 10 by means of which the lock can be electrically unlocked by operating the control element 10, thus effecting an electrical unlocking of the lock. This means that by operating the control element 10 an electrical adjustment or transfer of the lock from the locked state to the unlocked state can be effected.

[0069] In order to achieve particularly advantageous operation or operability of the handle element 4 and thus of the wing element 2 as a whole, the operating element 10 has a support element 11, which is, for example, formed in one piece. The support element 11 is inherently rigid, and therefore dimensionally stable, and is designed as a solid body. The support element 11 is provided with, in particular, at least or exactly, two strain gauges, namely a first strain gauge 12 and a second strain gauge 13. It can be seen that the strain gauges 12 and 13 are, in particular, completely spaced apart from each other.

[0070] The aforementioned outer skin of the handle element is designated 14.

[0071] For example, a deformation of a first sub-section T1 of the support element 11 can be detected by means of the strain gauge 12, in particular non-destructively and preferably elastically. Similarly, a deformation of a second sub-section T2 of the support element 11 can be detected by means of the strain gauge 13, in particular non-destructively and preferably elastically. The respective strain gauge 12, 13 can provide a signal, in particular an electrical signal, which characterizes, that is, indicates or describes, the respective deformation of the respective sub-section T1, T2 of the support element 11 detected or detectable by means of the respective strain gauge 12, 13. For example, an electronic computing device of the 24-2400 PIF can

[0072] 21

[0073] Vehicle 1, in particular the wing element 2, and especially the handle element 4, receives the respective signal. Depending on the respective signal, the electronic computing device can cause the electrical unlocking of the lock, so that the lock can be electrically unlocked by means of the respective signal.

[0074] The first sub-area T1 is assigned a first actuating element 15 of the control element 10, and the second sub-area T2 is assigned a second actuating element 16 of the control element 10. The control element 10 thus comprises the strain gauges 12 and 13, i.e., the support element 11 and the actuating elements 15 and 16. The actuating element 15 can be actuated by exerting a force, also referred to as an actuating force, on a first point of the handle element's outer skin 14. The actuating element 16 can be actuated by exerting a force, also referred to as an actuating force, on a second point of the handle element's outer skin 14. In other words, if, for example, a person in the vicinity 3 exerts a force on the handle element's outer skin 14 at the first point, the actuating element 15 can be actuated or is actuated as a result.If a person located in the vicinity 3 exerts a force on the outer skin 14 of the handle element at the second point, the actuating element 16 can be actuated or is actuated as a result. Actuating the actuating element 15 causes the aforementioned deformation of the partial area T1, preferably non-destructive and particularly elastic. Actuating the actuating element 16 causes the aforementioned deformation of the partial area T2 of the support element 11, preferably non-destructive and particularly elastic. In other words, if a person located in the vicinity 3 actuates the actuating element 15 in the manner described, the partial area T1 is deformed, preferably non-destructively and preferably elastically, which can be detected by means of the strain gauge 12.If the person located in the vicinity 3 activates the actuating element 16 in the manner described above, the sub-area T2 is thereby deformed, in particular non-destructively and especially elastically, which can be detected by means of the strain gauge 13. The respective actuating of the respective actuating element 15, 16 makes the control element 10 operable.

[0075] In order to advantageously, robustly, and precisely detect actual operation of the control element 10 by a person, the actuating element 15 is positively locked and / or materially locked and / or connected to the support element 11 by means of at least one screw connection. Furthermore, the actuating element 16 is connected to the 24-2400 PIF

[0076] 22

[0077] Support element 11 is connected by a form-fitting and / or material-fitting connection and / or by means of at least one screw connection.

[0078] In the embodiment shown in the figures, it is provided that, at least in the initial position AS and preferably also in the actuating position, the actuating elements 15 and 16 are arranged in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1 above the door sill 7, at least with respect to the closed position of the wing element 2. In particular, it is provided that the aforementioned points at which the respective actuating force is to be exerted on the outer skin of the handle element 14 in order to actuate the respective actuating element 15, 16 are arranged in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1 above the door sill 7, at least in the initial position AS and preferably also in the actuating position and at least with respect to the closed position of the wing element 2.

[0079] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the support element 11 has a first tab 18 projecting from a base body 17 of the support element 11 and associated with the actuating element 15, and a second tab 19 projecting from the base body 17 and associated with the actuating element 16. Preferably, the tab 18 rests against the actuating element 15, particularly with a preload and directly, and preferably, the tab 19 rests against the actuating element 16, particularly directly and / or with a preload. The respective tab 18, 19 is arcuate at least in a respective length region L1, L2 of the respective tab 18, 19, such that the respective tab 18, 19 has a respective radius at least in its respective length region L1, L2.In particular, it is provided that the respective length range L1, L2, i.e., the respective radius, bears against the respective associated actuating element 15, 16, preferably directly and / or with a preload. Most preferably, it is provided that the actuating element 15 is connected to the length range L1 by means of a material-fit connection and / or a positive fit and / or by means of the at least one screw connection. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the actuating element 16 is connected to the length range L2 by means of a material-fit connection and / or a positive fit and / or by means of the at least one screw connection.

[0080] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the tab 18 has a first recess, particularly in the length range L1, into which the actuating element 15 engages, thereby positively locking the actuating element 15 with the length range L1 and thus with the tab 24-2400 PIF

[0081] 23

[0082] 18 is connected. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the tab 19 has a second recess in the length range L2, into which the actuating element 16 engages, whereby the actuating element 16 is positively connected to the length range L2 and thus to the tab 19.

[0083] The tabs 18 and 19 are integral with the base body 17 and thus formed as a single unit, so that the tabs 18 and 19 and the base body 17 are formed from a single piece.

[0084] For example, the actuating elements 15 and 16 are formed as a single unit. Each actuating element 15, 16 is made of a first material. The support element 11, and thus the base body 17 and the tabs 18 and 19, are made of a second material different from the first. Preferably, the first material is a plastic, and the second material is preferably a metallic material, in particular steel.

[0085] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the handle element 4 has an outer element 20, which is formed separately from the support element 11. The respective actuating element 15, 16 is formed separately from the support element 11. It can be seen that the respective actuating element 15, 16, the support element 11, and the respective strain gauge 12, 13 are arranged on an inner surface 21 of the outer element 20 facing away from the outer skin 14 of the handle element. For example, the outer element 20 forms at least a part of the outer skin 14 of the handle element.

[0086] For example, the outer element 20 at least partially defines and / or surrounds a receiving area 22 of the handle element 4, wherein the actuating elements 15 and 16 and the support element 11, and thus the tabs 18 and 19 and the strain gauges 12 and 13, are arranged in the receiving area 22. It is conceivable that the respective actuating element 15, 16 is formed separately from the outer element 20 and connected to the outer element 20, in particular in such a way that relative movements between the respective actuating element 15, 16 and the outer element 20 are prevented. Furthermore, it would be conceivable that the respective actuating element 15, 16 is formed integrally with the outer element 20, so that, for example, the respective actuating element 15, 16 and the outer element 20 are formed from a single piece. Thus, for example, the outer element 20 is formed from the aforementioned first material.It is also evident that, for example, the respective actuating element 15, 16 is located on the inside 21 of the outer element 20, i.e., on a surface that is directly connected to the respective actuating element 15, 16 24-2400 PIF.

[0087] The respective actuating element 15, 16 projects from the inner surface 21 or from the outer surface 20, the outer surface 21 forming at least part of the inner surface 21. In particular, the respective actuating element 15, 16 projects from the inner surface 21 or from the outer surface 20 towards the support element 11, specifically towards the respective associated tab 18, 19. In particular, the respective actuating element 15, 16 projects from the inner surface 21 or from the outer surface 20 away from the outer skin 14 of the handle element.

[0088] 24-2400 PIF

[0089] 25

[0090] Reference symbol list

[0091] 1 vehicle

[0092] 2 wing elements

[0093] 3 Environment

[0094] 4 handle elements

[0095] 5 Exterior cladding element

[0096] 6 Total outer skin

[0097] 7 Door sill

[0098] 8 side window

[0099] 9 disc area

[0100] 10 Control element

[0101] 11 Support element

[0102] 12 strain gauges

[0103] 13 strain gauges

[0104] 14 Handle element outer skin

[0105] 15 Actuating element

[0106] 16 Actuating element

[0107] 17 basic shapes

[0108] 18 tab

[0109] 19 tab

[0110] 20 exterior elements

[0111] 21 Inside

[0112] A Outside

[0113] AS starting position

[0114] B1 area

[0115] B2 area

[0116] L1 length range

[0117] L2 length range

[0118] T1 sub-area

[0119] T2 sub-area

Claims

24-2400 PIF 26 Patent claims 1. Handle element (4) for a wing element (2) of a vehicle (1), with an operating element (10) by means of which, by operating the operating element (10), a lock by means of which the wing element (2), which can be movably arranged on a body of the vehicle (1) between a closed position and at least one open position, is to be secured in the closed position, can be electrically unlocked, characterized in that: - the operating element (10) comprises: o a carrier element (11) which is provided with at least one strain gauge (12, 13); and o at least one actuating element (15, 16) which can be actuated by exerting a force intended for operating the operating element (10) on an outer skin (14) of the handle element (4), by means of which, by actuating the actuating element (15, 16), a deformation of at least a partial area (T1, T2) of the carrier element (11) can be effected, wherein the deformation of the partial area (T1, T2) of the carrier element (11) can be detected by means of the strain gauge (12, 13) and a signal characterizing the detected deformation can be provided, by means of which the electrical unlocking of the lock can be effected; and - the actuating element (15, 16) and the support element (11) are connected to each other by means of a positive locking and / or material locking and / or by means of at least one screw connection.

2. Handle element (4) according to claim 1, characterized in that the actuating element (15, 16) is positively connected and / or materially connected and / or by means of the at least one screw connection to the partial area (T1 , T2) of the carrier element (11).

3. Handle element (4) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the actuating element (15, 16) is positively locked to the support element (11). 24-2400 PIF 27 and / or is materially bonded and / or is firmly connected by means of at least one screw connection, thereby preventing relative movements between the actuating element (15, 16) and the support element (11).

4. Handle element (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (11) has a recess into which the actuating element (15, 16) engages, whereby the actuating element (15, 16) and the support element (11) are positively connected to each other.

5. Handle element (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (11) has at least one tab (18, 19) projecting from a base body (17) of the support element (11), which is arcuate in at least one longitudinal region (L1, L2) of the tab (18, 19), wherein the actuating element (15, 16) is connected to the arcuate longitudinal region (L1, L2) of the tab (18, 19) by means of a positive locking and / or material locking connection and / or by means of the at least one screw connection.

6. Handle element (4) according to claims 4 and 5, characterized in that the arc-shaped length region (L1, L2) of the tab (18, 19) has the recess.

7. Handle element (4) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the arc-shaped length region (L1, L2) of the tab (18, 19) is curved towards the actuating element (15, 16).

8. Handle element (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (15, 16) is made of a first material and the support element (11) is made of a second material different from the first material. 24-2400 PIF 28 9. Handle element (4) according to claim 8, characterized in that the first material is a plastic.

10. Handle element (4) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the second material is a metallic material, in particular a steel.

11. Wing element (2) for a vehicle, comprising at least one handle element (4) according to one of the preceding claims.

12. Vehicle (1) with at least one wing element (2) according to claim 11.

Images