Vehicle door and vehicle having a vehicle door

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle door (10) for a vehicle (50), comprising a cover device (11) for at least partly covering a window channel (12) of the vehicle door (10). The cover device (11) has a main part (13) and a door handle module (14), wherein the main part (13) extends at least partly along the window channel (12) and has a recess (15), and the door handle module (14) is mounted in the recess (15).

Description

[0001] ßols & Vogel

[0002] Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst GmbH & Co. KG

[0003] Steeger Street 17

[0004] 42551 Velbert

[0005] Vehicle door and vehicle with vehicle door

[0006] Description

[0007] The invention relates to a vehicle door for a vehicle and to a vehicle with such a vehicle door.

[0008] To create a homogeneous overall appearance and reduce aerodynamic drag, there is a growing trend to integrate door opening devices, particularly door handles, into the vehicle's exterior design and doors. Solutions exist where a door handle is flush with the outer surface of the door, at least when not in use. However, even this integration results in visually and aerodynamically disadvantageous gaps or edges on the door's outer surface.

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above, at least partially. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a vehicle door and a vehicle with such a vehicle door that enable an improvement in vehicle aerodynamics and / or the realization of a homogeneous overall appearance as well as a high level of user comfort, especially with a high degree of design freedom and / or low costs.

[0010] The foregoing problem is solved by a vehicle door having the features of independent claim 1 and by a vehicle having the features of independent claim 17. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features of ßols & Vogel apply.

[0011] and details described in connection with the vehicle door according to the invention, of course also in connection with the vehicle according to the invention and vice versa, so that with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention, mutual reference is always made or can be made.

[0012] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle door for a vehicle, comprising a cover device for covering, at least partially, a window recess of the vehicle door, wherein the cover device comprises a base body and a door handle module, wherein the window recess is covered, at least partially, by the base body, and wherein the base body has a recess or interruption, wherein the door handle module is arranged in the recess or interruption of the base body. In particular, the base body can be interrupted along its longitudinal extent.

[0013] In other words, a vehicle door is proposed, wherein the vehicle door includes a cover device for covering, at least partially, a window recess of the vehicle door. The cover device comprises a base body and a door handle module. The base body preferably extends, at least partially, along the window recess. The window recess is covered, at least partially, by the base body. Furthermore, the base body has at least one recess, wherein the door handle module is arranged, at least partially, in this recess. In particular, it can be provided that the door handle module completely fills or closes the recess.

[0014] The vehicle door according to the invention offers the advantage that the door opening function is integrated into a cover device and can thus be provided on a vehicle in an unobtrusive yet user-friendly manner. Covers for window channels are proven elements for the exterior design of a vehicle. In this respect, the door opening function is unobtrusively integrated into the overall appearance of the vehicle. Disturbing gaps or edges in the outer skin of the vehicle door can be eliminated in this way, resulting in a homogeneous overall impression of the vehicle as well as improved vehicle aerodynamics due to reduced wind resistance. Furthermore, the present invention, by providing a cover device with a receiving section, offers the possibility of a [missing information - likely a specific type of cover device].

[0015] Modular design of a door handle arrangement. The proposed design of the cover allows for compatibility with different door handle modules, enabling flexible use of the cover on different vehicle models and equipment variants.

[0016] It may be provided that the base body is separated into two distinct segments by the recess. In this case, the base body is designed to consist of at least two parts. Alternatively, the recess may be designed as a local cutout, or the base body may extend continuously and / or without interruption along the window recess and / or be a single piece. Additionally or alternatively, it may be provided that the window recess, particularly in the area of ​​the recess, is at least partially covered by the door handle module.

[0017] Within the scope of the invention, it is preferably provided that the door handle module is supported, in particular via at least one web element, on at least one, in particular internal, structural element of the vehicle door. This allows for advantageous force transmission when the door is opened by a user. Additionally or alternatively, it is possible that the door handle module is connected, in particular via at least one web element, to at least one structural element of the vehicle door. Such a connection can be realized, in particular, via at least one screw connection and / or rivet connection and / or clip connection and / or adhesive connection. At least one structural element can, in particular, be an internal structural element. This means that the structural element is not visible to a user when viewing the vehicle door from the outside.Additionally or alternatively, at least one structural element may preferably be a door panel.

[0018] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous that at least one proximity sensor is included, particularly by the cover device, preferably the base body and / or the door handle module, wherein the proximity sensor can detect a user's approach to the vehicle door, and wherein, in particular, at least one proximity sensor is designed as a capacitive sensor. By detecting a user's approach, for example, an authorization check can be triggered. (Sols & Vogel)

[0019] with the aim of determining whether the user is authorized to access the vehicle or not. Additional sensors or communication interfaces may be used to verify authorization during the authorization request. In particular, the authorization request may check whether the user is carrying an ID transmitter and whether this ID transmitter authorizes the user to access the vehicle. The ID transmitter can preferably be a car key or a mobile device, especially a smartphone or tablet.

[0020] Depending on the outcome of the authorization request, the power supply to at least one door handle module, in particular an actuating element and / or triggering device and / or force sensor of the door handle module, can preferably be activated or activated, particularly via at least one, preferably electrical, switching element. In other words, it can preferably be provided that at least one door handle module, in particular an actuating element and / or triggering device and / or force sensor, is only active when the user's authorization to access the vehicle has been established. This can support energy-efficient operation of the vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, at least one communication interface, in particular a BLE interface, can also be used to detect the approach of a user or an ID transmitter carried by the user.Thus, by establishing a communication connection to the ID provider, it can be inferred that the user is approaching the ID provider.

[0021] Within the scope of the invention, it is optionally possible that at least one environmental sensor is included, particularly by the cover device, preferably the base body and / or the door handle module, wherein objects in the external environment of the vehicle door can be detected by the environmental sensor, wherein, in particular, at least one environmental sensor is configured as a radar sensor (radio detection and ranging), especially a UWB sensor (ultra-wideband). Additionally or alternatively, at least one environmental sensor can be configured as a lidar sensor (light detection and ranging) and / or as an image sensor, in particular a camera. The detection of an object in the vicinity of the cover device can, in particular, be the detection of a possible obstacle with regard to the opening or closing of the vehicle door and / or the at least partially autonomous operation of the vehicle.This way, a user of the vehicle can be made aware of the presence of any obstacles, or a ßols & Vogel.

[0022] Automatic opening or closing processes can be prevented or interrupted if an obstacle is detected. Additionally or alternatively, the detection of an object in the external environment can involve the detection and / or location of an ID transmitter. Preferably, at least one UWB sensor can be used to detect or locate an ID transmitter in the external environment of the vehicle.

[0023] Furthermore, the invention may provide that, in particular through the cover device, preferably the base body and / or the door handle module, at least one communication interface is included, wherein a communication connection to at least one ID transmitter can be established, at least temporarily, via the communication interface, wherein in particular at least one communication interface is configured as an NFC (Near Field Communication) interface and / or a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) interface. The ID transmitter may preferably be configured as a car key or a mobile device, in particular a smartphone or a tablet.

[0024] At least one communication interface, in particular a BLE interface, can preferably be configured or used to detect the approach of an ID transmitter to the vehicle. Thus, when an ID transmitter approaches, a communication link can be established between the BLE interface and the ID transmitter as soon as the ID transmitter is within range of the BLE interface. Once approach is detected, an authorization check can be performed and / or the ID transmitter can be detected or located, preferably via at least one environmental sensor, in particular at least one UWB sensor. From this, a user's access request to the vehicle can be derived, and if necessary, the power supply to at least one actuating element and / or triggering device and / or force sensor can be activated.

[0025] At least one NFC interface can be configured as an active NFC interface. In other words, the NFC interface can be configured to transmit power to a receiver, specifically so that the receiver can in turn transmit information back to the NFC interface. This offers the advantage that a user with a valid ID transmitter can gain access to the vehicle even when the ID transmitter's power supply is depleted. Specifically, the ID transmitter can use a ßols & Vogel for this purpose.

[0026] It features a passive NFC interface. This has proven particularly advantageous when a mobile device is used as an ID transmitter.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, at least one NFC interface can be configured as a passive NFC interface. In other words, the NFC interface can be configured to receive energy, particularly from a transmitter (e.g., an ID transmitter). This energy can be used, for example, to initiate a state change at at least one locking device of the vehicle or vehicle door. This offers the advantage that a user with a valid ID transmitter can gain access to the vehicle even when the vehicle's power supply is depleted. Specifically, the ID transmitter can have an active NFC interface for this purpose.

[0028] With regard to the present invention, it is conceivable that, particularly through the cover device, preferably the base body and / or the door handle module, at least one lighting unit is included, wherein the lighting unit can illuminate the vehicle door and / or a vehicle front area and / or the door handle module and / or the base body, at least partially. Preferably, the lighting unit can illuminate at least a vehicle front area and / or at least one emergency release element and / or at least one cover element, at least partially. At least one lighting unit can preferably comprise at least one light source or a plurality of light sources. The light sources can be arranged at different positions on the cover device. In particular, at least one light source can be designed as an LED (Light-Emitting Diode).The use of a lighting device increases user comfort. In particular, appropriate lighting can actively direct the user's attention to the respective functions of the cover device and any obstructions in the area in front of the vehicle. The area in front of the vehicle is defined as the ground area located in front of a vehicle door when the cover device is used as intended.

[0029] Furthermore, it is conceivable that, in particular by means of the cover device, preferably the base body and / or the door handle module, at least one emergency opening element is included, wherein the emergency opening element causes a change of state at at least one locking device of the vehicle or the vehicle door, in particular mechanically, ßols & Vogel

[0030] The device is capable of being triggered. Preferably, at least one triggering device, in particular a mechanical one, may be included, wherein the triggering device is operatively connected, or can be connected, to the emergency opening element on the one hand and to at least one locking device on the other hand, such that the triggering device can be actuated by the emergency opening element and the change of state at the locking device can be triggered by actuating the triggering device. The triggering device may preferably be designed as a Bowden cable. The use of an emergency opening element makes it possible to open the vehicle door more easily in the event of an accident.

[0031] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous that the emergency opening element is at least partially covered by a cover element that can be detached, at least partially, from the vehicle door, in particular from the cover device, preferably from the base body and / or the door handle module. This results in a homogeneous overall visual appearance of the cover device with regard to normal, accident-free operation.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the emergency release element can be moved from a passive to an active position, whereby the emergency release element is inaccessible to a user in the passive position and accessible to a user in the active position. In this context, it is conceivable, for example, that by moving the emergency release element from the passive to the active position, a cover element arranged on the vehicle door, in particular the cover device, preferably on the base body and / or the door handle module, for covering the emergency release element, can be detached, at least partially, from the vehicle door, in particular the cover device, preferably the base body and / or the door handle module. Thus, the emergency release element can be actively made available to emergency responders in the event of an accident. The movement from the passive to the active position can, for example, be triggered by a crash sensor.The movement from the passive position to the active position can be carried out in particular by an actuator, especially an electric one.

[0033] With regard to the present invention, it is conceivable that, in particular the cover device, preferably the base body and / or the door handle module, at least one electrical connector for providing a power supply to the door handle module and / or at least one proximity sensor and / or at least one ßols & Vogel

[0034] The device comprises an environmental sensor and / or at least one communication interface and / or at least one lighting unit or other components, particularly those mentioned within the scope of the invention. At least one electrical connector can be configured for connection to an external power supply, in particular a vehicle power source. Additionally or alternatively, at least one electrical connector can be provided for establishing a signal connection between the cover device, in particular the door handle module, and at least one locking device, in particular the vehicle door or the vehicle itself. At least one electrical connector can be arranged on a cable.

[0035] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the base body and the door handle module are connected to each other, at least partially. This results in improved fixation of the door handle module. A connection between the base body and the door handle module can preferably be realized via at least one snap-fit ​​connection. For this purpose, at least one snap-fit ​​element can be provided on the door handle module and / or on the base body. At least one snap-fit ​​element can be designed as a snap hook or similar. Additionally or alternatively, at least one snap-fit ​​element can be designed as a recess or an undercut, in particular for the partial or partial reception or engagement of a compatible snap-fit ​​element. A snap-fit ​​connection allows for particularly simple installation of the door handle module.

[0036] In particular, the connection between the base body and the door handle module can be designed as a reversibly detachable connection, especially in the form of a screw connection or (spring-loaded) bayonet connection, to allow for easy replacement of the door handle module.

[0037] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the base body and the door handle module are connected by a material-bonded connection, in particular an adhesive or welding connection, to create a permanent bond in all cases. This material-bonded connection also allows for a reliable seal between the base body and the door handle module to be achieved simultaneously and easily.

[0038] It may be provided within the scope of the invention that, in particular by the covering device, preferably by the base body and / or the door handle module, at least ßols & Vogel

[0039] It includes a sealing element for sealing against a window pane of a vehicle door or door module.

[0040] Preferably, the door handle module may include at least one actuating element for triggering a change of state at at least one locking device of the vehicle door or the vehicle.

[0041] The triggering of the state change at the locking device via the actuating element can preferably be electrically triggered. In other words, it can be provided that at least one actuating element is operatively connected to the locking device in such a way that the state change can be electrically triggered. In particular, electrical triggering in this context is understood to mean triggering by the transmission of electrical signals or impulses.

[0042] Alternatively, the change of state can be triggered electromechanically. An electromechanical release can be implemented, for example, by a mechanical actuator in conjunction with an electrical release device, in particular a switch or microswitch, wherein the electrical release device can be actuated by the mechanical actuator and wherein the electrical release device is operatively connected to the locking device in such a way that the change of state can be triggered electrically.

[0043] Alternatively, the change of state can be triggered mechanically. Mechanical triggering can be achieved, for example, by a mechanical actuator in conjunction with a mechanical release mechanism. The mechanical release mechanism can, for example, be a Bowden cable that is operatively connected to both the mechanical actuator and the locking device in such a way that the change of state can be triggered by actuating the actuator.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that by actuating at least one actuating element, a drive-assisted or automatic door opening and / or closing of at least one vehicle door can be initiated. The automatic door opening can preferably be carried out by at least one door drive. In other words, ßols & Vogel

[0045] It may be provided that at least one actuating element is designed to trigger a drive-assisted or automatic door opening and / or closing of at least one vehicle door. In this context, door opening is understood to mean a movement of the vehicle door from a closed position to an open position, and door closing is understood to mean the reverse movement of the vehicle door from the open position to the closed position. In particular, door closing can be initiated when the vehicle door is in an open position, and door opening can be initiated when the vehicle door is in a closed position.

[0046] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that at least one actuating element is designed as an electrical or touch-sensitive actuating element, wherein the change of state can preferably be triggered by a touch or contact of the actuating element by a user.

[0047] In particular, at least one electrical or touch-sensitive actuating element can be designed as a touch sensor, wherein a change of state can be triggered by a user touching or contacting the actuating element, in particular the touch sensor. In this context, it is preferably provided that at least one touch sensor is designed as a capacitive sensor or touch sensor.

[0048] In particular, at least one capacitive sensor can be designed as a capacitive metal-over-capacitor (MOC) sensor. The sensor preferably comprises a sensor electrode on a circuit board, a spacer, and a conductive metal surface as the target object. An electric field forms between the sensor electrode and the metal surface, similar to that of a capacitor. The capacitance of this system is continuously measured. When pressure is applied to the metal surface, it deforms slightly and moves closer to the sensor electrode. This changes the capacitance of the system, which can then be detected. As soon as a user touches the handle body, the sensor's capacitance changes, and the vehicle could interpret this as a request to unlock and / or open the lock. Metal-over-capacitor sensors offer several advantages for use in the handle assembly, especially the handle body.The robustness is an advantage, as the metal surface protects the actual sensor from environmental influences such as moisture or dirt. Furthermore, the design allows for... ßols & Vogel.

[0049] Integration allows the sensor to be invisibly installed behind a surface, offering aesthetic advantages. The sensor's reliability is another benefit, as it functions flawlessly even in wet conditions or when the user is wearing gloves.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, at least one electrical or touch-sensitive actuating element can be designed as an inductive sensor. An inductive sensor uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to detect metallic objects or changes in the electromagnetic field. The inductive sensor detects even the slightest movements of metal objects within its detection range. For example, the user exerts a (minimal) force on a handle area, particularly the handle body, in which a metal object is located. The metal object can be a thin film, a sheet of metal, or metal particles embedded in plastic. The force exerted by the user causes deformation, and the sensor can detect the relative movement between the metal and the sensor. It is also conceivable that the sensor moves closer to the metal object. The signal can then be used to automatically unlock and / or open the locking system.A microswitch is particularly cost-effective to implement.

[0051] An inductive sensor can reliably detect even slight deformations of a surface, such as those caused by touch or contact from a user. In this case, touching or contacting the actuator includes a deformation, particularly a minor or detectable one, of the contact surface. These types of electrical or touch-sensitive actuators have proven particularly advantageous for reliably detecting user touch.

[0052] It may be provided that at least one electrical or touch-sensitive actuating element has a fixed or substantially fixed contact surface for contact by a user. In particular, the absence of a mechanical pressure point leads to a more sophisticated and high-quality impression in the user's perception.

[0053] In particular, the door handle module may include a handle element or a fixed handle body, preferably a fixed one. The handle element or handle body may, at least partially, be shaped like a recess or have a recessed grip.

[0054] The handle must have features, in particular to allow user intervention or to improve force transmission from the user to the vehicle door. At least one actuating element, preferably electric or touch-sensitive, can preferably be arranged on the handle element or handle body.

[0055] Within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that at least one actuating element is designed as a mechanical actuating element, wherein preferably the mechanical actuating element is movably mounted on a handle body of the door handle module. In particular, it may be provided that the change of state at the locking device can be triggered by a movement of the mechanical actuating element relative to the handle body.

[0056] Preferably, the mechanical actuating element can be pivotably mounted on the handle body, so that the actuating element can be pivoted, at least partially, from a passive position to an active position. The active position of the actuating element is understood here as a position in which the change of state of at least one locking device can be triggered by the actuating element. The passive position of the actuating element, on the other hand, is a position of the actuating element in which no change of state is triggered.

[0057] It can preferably be provided that at least one actuating element, in particular a mechanical one, is biased against movement from the passive position to the active position by at least one preload element. In other words, the actuating element is held in the passive position by the preload element, and any movement of the actuating element into the active position must occur against the preload of the spring element. Thus, after actuation of the actuating element by a user, an automatic return of the actuating element to the passive position occurs. At least one preload element can preferably be designed as a spring, in particular a coil spring.

[0058] It can be provided, particularly in conjunction with a mechanical actuating element, that at least one release means is included, especially by the door handle module. The release means can preferably be combined with the actuating element, particularly the mechanical one, on the one hand, and at least one locking device on the other, in such a way as described in ßols & Vogel.

[0059] The effective connection must be established or made possible so that the triggering element can be actuated by the actuating element and the change of state at the closing device can be triggered by the actuation of the triggering element.

[0060] At least one triggering device can be designed as an electrical triggering device, in particular as a switch, preferably a microswitch, or a proximity sensor. Additionally or alternatively, at least one triggering device can be designed as a mechanical triggering device, in particular as a Bowden cable. The use of an electrical triggering device, in particular a microswitch, has proven to be particularly advantageous with regard to user-friendliness and a space-saving design.

[0061] It can advantageously be further provided that at least one force sensor is included, wherein the force sensor can detect a force acting on at least one actuating element, and wherein the force sensor is particularly designed as a piezoelectric sensor and / or a strain gauge. The additional use of a force sensor offers the advantage that actual actuation of an actuating element by a user can be detected more reliably. Effects on the actuating element resulting from external environmental influences can be more reliably distinguished from actual user actions through the additional use of a force sensor. Therefore, the risk of false detections of user actions on the actuating element is reduced by the additional use of at least one force sensor.The use of a force sensor has proven particularly advantageous, especially in combination with a touch-sensitive actuator.

[0062] Within the scope of the invention, it can further be advantageous if the door handle module, in particular at least one actuating element and / or handle element, has, at least partially, a structured and / or coated surface. The coating can preferably be an anti-slip coating, in particular a rubber coating. This prevents the user from slipping during operation. ßols & Vogel

[0063] Preferably, it can be provided that at least one locking device is included by the vehicle door or the vehicle, wherein the door handle module, in particular an actuating element of the door handle module, is operatively connected to the locking device in such a way that, in particular by actuating an actuating element of the door handle module, a change of state at the locking device can be triggered by a user.

[0064] It may be provided that the door handle module and the base body are connected to each other via at least one electrical connection, in particular a plug connection, for the purpose of supplying power to the door handle module via the base body. Furthermore, the base body may be connected, or connectable, to an external power source of the vehicle, in particular via at least one electrical connection, in particular a plug connection.

[0065] In relation to the present invention, it can further be provided that the vehicle door comprises at least one control unit. The control unit can, in particular, be configured to control the sequence of opening or unlocking a door in a vehicle or a vehicle door. Preferably, the control unit is encompassed by the cover device, especially the base body and / or the door handle module. The control unit can be connected, at least temporarily, to a signal connection with a locking device of a vehicle or a vehicle door and / or the door handle module and / or a door drive. A signal connection can, for example, be implemented via an electrical connector.

[0066] In particular, it may be provided that the base body extends, at least in sections, along the window recess. A window recess is to be understood here as a recess or cavity in the vehicle door, wherein, in particular, a window of the vehicle door can be lowered, or is lowered, at least in sections, into the window recess during an opening process.

[0067] The vehicle door can preferably be designed as a side door, specifically a front or rear passenger door; however, within the spirit and scope of the present invention, any vehicle door can be included, including swing doors or tailgates, hoods, sliding side doors, tailgates, rear doors, gull-wing doors, or the like. ßols & Vogel

[0068] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle comprising at least one vehicle door according to the first aspect of the present invention, in particular at least one vehicle door according to any one of claims 1 to 16. This results in the same advantages with respect to a vehicle according to the invention as have already been described with respect to a vehicle door according to the invention. It is preferable that the vehicle be a car, in particular a passenger car. Alternatively, it is possible that the vehicle be a commercial vehicle, in particular a truck.

[0069] At least one locking device of the vehicle or vehicle door can preferably be designed as an electrically actuated locking device. At least one locking device can preferably include at least one actuator, in particular an electrical one, for performing a change of state at the locking device. In particular, it can be provided that the actuator, preferably electrically, can be controlled to initiate or trigger a change of state.

[0070] It is also conceivable that a vehicle and / or a vehicle door includes at least one door drive, wherein the door drive allows at least one vehicle door to be moved between a closed position and an open position, and wherein at least one actuating element of the door handle module is operatively connected to, or can be brought into contact with, the door drive in such a way that, by actuating the actuating element, a movement of the vehicle door from the closed position to the open position or vice versa can be initiated by the door drive. This results in a particularly high level of user comfort.

[0071] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which several exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination.

[0072] Fig. 1 a schematic view of a vehicle door, ßols & Vogel

[0073] Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a vehicle door,

[0074] Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a vehicle door,

[0075] Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of a basic body,

[0076] Fig. 5 shows a schematic view of a basic body,

[0077] Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of a basic body,

[0078] Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of a vehicle door and

[0079] Fig. 8 is a schematic view of a vehicle.

[0080] The figures use identical reference numerals for the same technical features, even for different embodiments.

[0081] Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a vehicle door 10 for a vehicle 50. The vehicle door is also shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, whereby in Fig. 2 and 3 the depiction of individual elements has been omitted for the sake of clarity.

[0082] The vehicle door 10 includes a cover device 11 for covering a window recess 12 of the vehicle door 10. The cover device 11 comprises a base body 13 and a door handle module 14. The window recess 12 is covered, at least partially, by the base body 13. Furthermore, the base body 13 has a recess 15, as shown in Fig. 2, and as can be seen in Figs. 1 and 3, the door handle module 14 is arranged in the recess 15.

[0083] Figures 1 to 3 further show that the base body 13 is separated into two distinct segments by the recess 15 and that the door handle module 14 is arranged in the recess 15 such that it completely fills the recess. ßols & Vogel

[0084] Fig. 3 further shows that the door handle module 14 is supported on an internal structural element 17 of the vehicle door 10 via at least one web element 16 and is connected to the structural element 17. In this case, the structural element 17 is designed as an internal door panel, which, according to Fig. 1, is not visible to a user when viewing the vehicle door 10 from the outside.

[0085] Figures 1 to 3 further show that the door handle module 14 comprises at least one actuating element 25 for triggering a change of state at at least one locking device 52 of the vehicle door 10 or of the vehicle 50. In this case, the actuating element 25 is designed as a capacitive sensor, which is arranged on a stationary handle body 26. The handle body 26 is shaped like a recess to allow user intervention and to improve force transmission from the user to the vehicle door 10.

[0086] Figures 4 to 6 show schematic views of at least one segment of the base body 13 of the cover device 11. In Figure 4, the viewing direction is directed from above along the vehicle's vertical axis towards the base body 13 with regard to the intended use of the cover device 11 on a vehicle door 10 or a vehicle 50.

[0087] The cover device 11, in particular the base body 13, further comprises a proximity sensor 18 for detecting a user's approach to the vehicle door 10 or the vehicle 50, an environment sensor 19 for detecting objects in the external environment of the vehicle door 10 or the vehicle 50, and a communication interface 20 for establishing a communication connection, at least temporarily, to at least one ID transmitter. Alternatively, at least some of these components can also be integrated into or encompassed by the door handle module 14.

[0088] Figure 4 further shows that the cover device 11 includes at least one lighting unit 21 for illuminating, at least partially, a vehicle apron 51. In this case, the lighting unit 21 is encompassed by or arranged on the base body 13. The door handle module 14 can also include at least one lighting unit 21. ßols & Vogel

[0089] As can be seen from Fig. 4, the cover device 11 comprises an emergency opening element 22, wherein the emergency opening element 22 can mechanically trigger or effect a change of state at at least one locking device 52 of the vehicle door 10 or of the vehicle 50. Furthermore, the cover device 11 comprises at least one electrical connector 24 for supplying power to the cover device 11. Such a connector 24 can additionally or alternatively also be provided on the door handle module 14.

[0090] A possible implementation of an emergency opening element 22 is shown in more detail in Figures 5 and 6. The view is directed towards the cover device 11 along the vehicle's transverse axis, with respect to its intended use on a vehicle door 10 or a vehicle 50. Figure 6 shows that the emergency opening element 22 is covered by a cover element 23 that can be detached, at least partially, from the base body 13.

[0091] The emergency opening element 22 can be moved from a passive position I, shown in Fig. 5, to an active position II, shown in Fig. 6, whereby the emergency opening element 22 is accessible to a user in active position II. By moving the emergency opening element 22 from passive position I (Fig. 5) to active position II (Fig. 6), the cover element 23, which is arranged on the base body 13 to cover the emergency opening element 22, is detached, at least partially, from the base body 13, thus enabling access to the emergency opening element 22. In this way, the emergency opening element 22 can be actively made available to emergency responders in the event of an accident.

[0092] The emergency opening element 22 is also operatively connected to a mechanical release mechanism 28, which in this case is designed as a Bowden cable. A tensile force is transmitted to the emergency opening element 22, thereby enabling or carrying out the change of state in the locking device 52 of the vehicle 50 or the vehicle door 10 mechanically.

[0093] Fig. 7 further shows a schematic view of a vehicle door 10 for a vehicle 50, comprising at least one locking device 52 and a cover device 11 with a base body 13 and a door handle module 14. The door handle module 14 is from ßols & Vogel.

[0094] The cover device 11 is operatively connected to the locking device 52 in such a way that a change of state at the locking device 52 can be triggered by an actuation element 25 of the door handle module 14 by a user.

[0095] Fig. 8 further shows a schematic view of a vehicle 50 with a vehicle door 10, wherein the vehicle door 10 comprises a cover device 11 according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0096] Furthermore, the vehicle 50 comprises a door drive 53, wherein the vehicle door 10 can be moved between a closed position and an open position by means of the door drive 53, wherein the actuating element 25 of the door handle module 14 of the cover device 11 is operatively connected to the door drive 53 in such a way that, by actuating the actuating element 25 by a user, a movement of the vehicle door 10 from the closed position to the open position or vice versa can be triggered, in particular by the door drive 53. ßols & Vogel

[0097] B ezuqszeichenliste

[0098] 10 Vehicle door

[0099] 11 Cover device

[0100] 12 window shaft

[0101] 13 basic shapes

[0102] 14 Door handle module

[0103] 15 recess

[0104] 16 Bridge element

[0105] 17 structural element

[0106] 18 Proximity sensor

[0107] 19 Environmental sensor

[0108] 20 Communication interface

[0109] 21 lighting units

[0110] 22 Emergency opening element

[0111] 23 Cover element

[0112] 24 connectors

[0113] 25 Actuating element

[0114] 26 handle bodies

[0115] 28 triggers

[0116] 50 vehicles

[0117] 51 Vehicle apron

[0118] 52 Locking device

[0119] 53 Door drive

[0120] I Passive position

[0121] II Activation

Claims

ßols & Vogel patent claims 1. Vehicle door (10) for a vehicle (50), comprising a cover device (11) for covering, at least partially, a window recess (12) of the vehicle door (10), wherein the cover device (11) comprises a base body (13) and a door handle module (14), wherein the window shaft (12) is at least partially covered by the base body (13) and wherein the base body (13) has a recess (15) wherein the door handle module (14) is arranged in the recess (15).

2. Vehicle door (10) according to claim 1, characterized by that the door handle module (14) is supported on a structural element (17) of the vehicle door (10), preferably an internal one, and / or is connected to the structural element (17), in particular via at least one web element (16).

3. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the covering device (11) includes at least one proximity sensor (18), wherein the proximity sensor (18) can detect the approach of a user to the vehicle door (10), wherein in particular at least one proximity sensor (18) is designed as a capacitive sensor.

4. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cover device (11) includes at least one environmental sensor (19), wherein the environmental sensor (19) can detect objects in an external environment of the vehicle door (10), wherein in particular at least one environmental sensor (19) is designed as a UWB sensor. ßols & Vogel 5. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cover device (11) includes at least one communication interface (20), wherein a communication connection to at least one ID transmitter can be established, at least temporarily, via the communication interface (20), wherein in particular at least one communication interface (20) is designed as an NFC interface and / or BLE interface.

6. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cover device (11) includes at least one lighting unit (21), wherein the vehicle door (10) and / or a vehicle forecourt (51) can be illuminated, at least section by section, by the lighting unit (21).

7. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the covering device (11) includes at least one emergency opening element (22), wherein the emergency opening element (22) can mechanically trigger a change of state at at least one locking device (52) of the vehicle (50).

8. Vehicle door (10) according to claim 7, characterized by that the emergency opening element (22) is covered by a cover element (23) which can be detached at least partially from the cover device (11).

9. Vehicle door (10) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized by that the emergency opening element (22) can be moved from a passive position (I) to an active position (II), wherein the emergency opening element (22) is inaccessible to a user in the passive position (I) and accessible to a user in the active position (II). ßols & Vogel 10. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cover device (11) includes at least one electrical connector (24) for providing a power supply to the cover device (11) and / or a signal connection between the door handle module (14) and at least one locking device (52) of the vehicle (50).

11. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the base body (13) and the door handle module (14) are connected to each other at least section by section, in particular via at least one locking connection.

12. Vehicle door (10), according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the door handle module (14) comprises at least one actuating element (25) for triggering a change of state on at least one locking device (52) of a vehicle (50).

13. Vehicle door (10) according to claim 12, characterized by that at least one actuating element (25) is designed as an electrical and / or touch-sensitive actuating element (25), wherein the change of state can be triggered by contacting the actuating element (25) by a user, wherein in particular the actuating element (25) is designed as an inductive or capacitive sensor. ßols & Vogel 14. Vehicle door (10) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by that at least one actuating element (25) is designed as a mechanical actuating element (25), wherein the mechanical actuating element (25) is movably mounted on a handle body (26) of the door handle module (14) and wherein the change of state can be triggered by a movement of the mechanical actuating element (25) relative to the handle body (26), in particular by actuating a microswitch by the mechanical actuating element (25).

15. Vehicle door (10) according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized by that at least one force sensor is included, wherein the force sensor can detect a force acting on at least one actuating element (25), wherein in particular the force sensor is designed as a piezo sensor and / or a strain gauge.

16. Vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the door handle module (14), in particular an actuating element (25), has at least a structured and / or coated surface in sections.

17. Vehicle (50) comprising at least one vehicle door (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

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