Modular system for producing at least two design variants of a motor vehicle body for a passenger car and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular system (1) for producing at least two design variants (2, 3) of a motor vehicle body (4) for a passenger car, having a side frame (5) that at least partially delimits a front door opening (6) provided for a front side door and a rear door opening (7) provided for a rear side door, which is arranged behind the front door opening (6) in the longitudinal direction (8) of the vehicle, and having at least two side wall elements (15, 16) that differ from one another, wherein the side frame (5) has a frame part (10) that at least partially delimiting the rear door opening (7) towards the rear in the longitudinal direction (8) of the vehicle and at least partially delimits a wheel housing (14), and wherein a first of the design variants (2) has the side frame (5) and a first of the side wall elements (15) and a second of the design variants (3) has the side frame (5) and a second of the side wall elements (16).

Description

[0001] 24-2536 PIF

[0002] 1

[0003] Modular system for the production of at least two body variants for a passenger car, as well as methods

[0004] The invention relates to a modular system for manufacturing at least two body variants of a motor vehicle for a passenger car according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing at least two body variants of a motor vehicle for a passenger car according to the preamble of claim 10.

[0005] DE 19621 451 A1 discloses a motor vehicle in modular construction, wherein a first module comprises the front part with engine compartment, the passenger compartment and the area of ​​the vehicle axles and a second module the rear part with trunk and rear bumper.

[0006] The object of the invention is to create a modular system for the production of at least two construction variants of a motor vehicle body for a passenger car, as well as a method for the production of at least two construction variants of a motor vehicle body for a passenger car, so that the construction variants can be produced with particularly little effort.

[0007] This problem is solved according to the invention by a modular system for manufacturing at least two body variants of a passenger car with the features of claim 1, and by a method for manufacturing at least two body variants of a passenger car with the features of claim 10. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the description.

[0008] A first aspect of the invention relates to a modular system for manufacturing at least two, in particular different, body variants of a motor vehicle body for a passenger car or of the passenger car itself. For example, the modular system is a modular system for manufacturing the at least two body variants of the passenger car. 24-2536 PIF

[0009] 2

[0010] The motor vehicle body can be a motor vehicle body of any design, that is, for example, a motor vehicle body for a passenger car designed as a 2-door, convertible, roadster or van, or for a passenger car with a sliding door.

[0011] The modular system features a side frame, particularly one that is consistent across different vehicle variants, which at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, defines a front door opening (particularly in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle) and a rear door opening (particularly in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle). This means that the side frame forms the front and rear door openings at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely. In other words, the side frame includes the front and rear door openings. The rear door opening is located, or is to be located, behind the front door opening in the longitudinal direction of the passenger car. In other words, the rear door opening extends further rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle than the front door opening.

[0012] Preferably, the front door opening can be covered, in particular completely, by the front side door. In other words, the front door opening can be closed, in particular completely, by the front side door. The covering or closing of the front door opening occurs particularly when the side door is in its closed position. In particular, the covering or closing of the front door opening does not occur when the front side door is in the open position. The rear door opening can preferably be covered, in particular completely, by the rear side door. In other words, the rear door opening can be closed, in particular completely, by means of the rear side door. The covering or closing of the rear door opening occurs particularly when the rear side door is in its closed position.When the door is in the open position, it is preferable to refrain from covering or closing the rear door opening.

[0013] Preferably, the side frame has a first door attachment area by which the front side door can be pivotably held or pivoted between its closed and open positions on the side frame, in particular at least indirectly or directly. Furthermore, the side frame preferably has at least one second door attachment area, in particular arranged in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle behind the first door attachment area, where the rear side door 24-2536 PIF

[0014] 3

[0015] pivotable between its closed position and its open position, in particular at least indirectly or directly, to be held or is held on the side frame.

[0016] Preferably, the side frame at least partially delimits the interior space of the passenger car in the transverse direction. In other words, the interior space is at least partially formed by the side frame. The interior space, which can be referred to as the vehicle interior, can in particular be understood to be a passenger compartment or passenger room.

[0017] Furthermore, the modular system comprises at least two different side wall elements, in particular those specific to different construction variants, which are designed separately from one another. In particular, the side wall elements are designed separately from the side frame. The fact that the side wall elements are different can be understood to mean, in particular, that the side wall elements differ in terms of their shape, their material, and / or their weight. Shape can be understood to mean, in particular, a geometry. In particular, each side wall element is designed as a separate body component.

[0018] The side frame has a frame section, particularly at the rear, which, specifically with regard to the front and rear door openings, at least partially limits the rear door opening in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. In other words, the frame section forms at least part of the rear door opening, while it does not at least partially form the front door opening. In particular, the frame section is spaced apart from the front door opening, preferably in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Thus, the aforementioned at least partial limitation of the rear door opening by the side frame is at least partially achieved by the frame section.

[0019] The side frame is designed, for example, as an outer part, that is, as the outermost side frame in the transverse direction of the vehicle. Thus, the motor vehicle body has, for example, at least one side frame designed as an inner part, which can be referred to as the "inner side frame," and which, in particular, is arranged further inwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle than the outer part, and can therefore also be referred to as an inner part. 24-2536 PIF

[0020] 4

[0021] The frame section at least partially encloses a wheel arch, particularly a rear one, of the passenger car. In other words, the wheel arch is at least partially formed by the frame section. The wheel arch is designed to accommodate a vehicle wheel of the passenger car. This means that the vehicle wheel can be, or is, arranged in the wheel arch, i.e., it can be received or is received there. The vehicle wheel can be understood to be, in particular, a ground contact element of the passenger car. Preferably, the passenger car can be, or is, supported on a surface, for example, a roadway, via the vehicle wheel. The vehicle wheel is, in particular, a rear vehicle wheel.

[0022] Preferably, the passenger car has a front wheel housing arranged in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in front of the rear wheel housing, in which, for example, a vehicle wheel of the passenger car, in particular a front wheel, can be arranged or is arranged.

[0023] To enable the construction variants to be manufactured with minimal effort, the invention provides that a first of the construction variants comprises the side frame, which is particularly common across construction variants, and a first of the side wall elements, which are particularly specific to a particular construction variant. In other words, the side frame and the first side wall element are provided in the first construction variant. This means that the side frame and the first side wall element are used in the first construction variant. In the first construction variant, the first side wall element is held on an outer surface of the frame part that faces outwards in the transverse direction of the passenger car, particularly at least indirectly or directly, on the frame part, especially as an outer paneling element.In other words, in the first construction variant, the first side wall element is attached to the frame part, particularly at least indirectly or directly, and is arranged on the outside of the frame part. This means that the first side wall element extends at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, onto the outside of the frame part; that is, in the transverse direction of the vehicle, it is arranged at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, further outwards than the frame part.

[0024] In order to enable the construction variants to be manufactured with particularly low effort, it is further provided according to the invention that a second of the construction variants has the side frame, in particular one that is common to all construction variants, and a second side wall element, in particular one that is specific to a particular construction variant. In other words, 24-2536 PIF

[0025] 5

[0026] In the second construction variant, the side frame and the second side wall element are provided. This means that the second construction variant uses the side frame and the second side wall element. In the second construction variant, the second side wall element is held on the outside of the frame part, in particular at least indirectly or directly, to the frame part, especially as an outer overlapping element. In other words, in the second construction variant, the second side wall element is attached to the frame part, in particular at least indirectly or directly, with the second side wall element being arranged on the outside of the frame part.This means that the second side wall element extends at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, onto the outside of the frame part, that is to say in particular that the second side wall element is arranged further outwards in the transverse direction of the passenger car at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, than the frame part.

[0027] The fact that the side frame is used across different construction variants, or in the first or second construction variant, means that both the first construction variant and the second construction variant have the same, in particular identical, side frame, which is to be arranged or is to be arranged in the same position in or on the motor vehicle body, in particular in or on passenger cars.

[0028] The statement that the first side wall element is specific to the construction variant, or that the first side wall element is used in the first construction variant, means that the first side wall element is used exclusively in the first construction variant and not in the second. This means that the second construction variant is specifically free of the first side wall element.

[0029] The statement that the second side wall element is specific to the construction variant, or that the second side wall element is used in the second construction variant, means that, with regard to the first and second construction variants, the second side wall element is used exclusively in the second construction variant, but not in the first. This means that the first construction variant is specifically free of the second side wall element. 24-2536 PIF

[0030] 6

[0031] The invention is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: In the prior art, the side wall element, also referred to as the "rear side wall," does not exist as a separate component, but is in particular part of the side frame, especially the outer section. The side wall element is thus conventionally fixed to the body. However, this does not allow for flexibility in the case of variations in the rear side wall area, so that, for example, due to an opening for a charging port or a fuel filler neck, for a wheel cover for wide tires, and / or for a sporty vehicle design, individual and different side frames must be created in each case, which can negatively impact the manufacturing costs of the vehicle body, especially of passenger cars. In the prior art, different design variants therefore always require different side frames.

[0032] In contrast, the aforementioned disadvantages can be overcome by means of the modular system according to the invention. The respective side wall element can be arranged as an attachment component, in particular as a cladding component or outer cladding component, on the side frame, especially on the frame part, whereby the side frame, in particular of identical construction, can be used across different construction variants, i.e., in particular in the first and second construction variants. Thus, for example, compared to the prior art, the rear side wall element is "detached" from the side frame, in particular the outer part, to form a separate component, thereby allowing the geometry of the side wall to be adapted, in particular as required or flexibly.The external geometry of the vehicle body, particularly visible from the outside, is thus defined, for example, solely by the respective side wall element itself, i.e., by a specific outer paneling section in the form of that side wall element. This reduces the complexity of manufacturing the various body variants. It also eliminates the need for different side frame variants and, for example, prevents the allocation of derivative component slots in the body structure. This means, for instance, that no additional derivative component slots are occupied within the body frame. Therefore, this simplifies the product design and / or production process for the different body variants.Furthermore, the assembly process for manufacturing the construction variants can be particularly simplified, since, for example, at least part of the assembly of additional components can be carried out before the respective side wall element is positioned, and in particular attached, to the respective frame part of the side frame.24-2536 PIF.

[0033] 7

[0034] The modular system according to the invention thus enables, in particular, a solution to simplify the production of vehicles, thereby saving time and costs, for example.

[0035] Further advantages can be achieved, for example, regarding the tools used to manufacture the side frame. The number of different tools required can be significantly reduced, meaning that only one tool is needed, eliminating the need for a second tool, as the side frames are essentially identical in construction. Furthermore, an additional clamping frame can be omitted. The tool can also be shortened, for example, by eliminating any visible external geometry in the rear section of the side frame, particularly in the frame section. Additionally, the design freedom of the passenger car can be significantly improved, for example, in the area of ​​a rear spoiler. Alternatively, the design freedom of a taillight, a panel, and / or aerodynamics can be greatly simplified.For example, accessibility to at least one cavity located on or formed within the frame component can be significantly improved, as this cavity is not located within a welded body shell, but is readily accessible before the respective side panel element is installed. Furthermore, a facelift can be implemented with minimal effort, as only the respective side panel element needs to be modified, particularly without altering the side frame. Updating the vehicle body, especially in the area of ​​the taillights, can thus be greatly simplified. Additionally, the vehicle's insurance rating can be significantly improved, as the respective side panel element can be replaced particularly easily, especially in the event of damage. The side panel element is therefore a so-called exchangeable part.

[0036] To minimize the manufacturing costs of the various construction variants, in a further embodiment, each side wall element limits the rear door opening at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely. This means that in the first construction variant, the first side wall element limits or forms the rear door opening at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, and that in the second construction variant, the second side wall element limits the rear door opening at least partially, in particular 24-2536 PIF

[0037] 8

[0038] predominantly or completely, limited. In other words, the respective side wall element forms at least part of the rear door opening.

[0039] To minimize manufacturing costs for the various construction variants, a further design alternatively or additionally provides for the respective side wall element to at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, define the wheel arch. This means that in the first construction variant, the first side wall element defines the wheel arch at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, and that in the second construction variant, the second side wall element defines the wheel arch at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely. In other words, the wheel arch is at least partially formed by the respective side wall element.

[0040] To enable particularly cost-effective production of the various configurations, a further embodiment provides that the first side wall element has a first through-opening, which is specific to each configuration and is intended for the fuel filler neck of the passenger car. In other words, the first through-opening allows access to the fuel filler neck. Thus, for example, the passenger car in the first configuration has the fuel filler neck. Preferably, a fuel nozzle can be arranged in the fuel filler neck to refuel the fuel tank of the passenger car via the fuel filler neck, i.e., to supply it with fuel, and in particular to fill the fuel tank.Alternatively or additionally, the second side wall element has a second opening, different from the first and, in particular, specific to the construction variant, which is provided for a charging socket of the passenger car. In other words, the second opening provides access to the charging socket. Thus, for example, the passenger car in the second construction variant has the charging socket. Specifically, the charging socket is designed to accept a charging plug, allowing the passenger car's electrical energy storage device to be charged, i.e., supplied with electrical energy, via the charging plug located in the charging socket. Accordingly, in the first construction variant, the passenger car is, for example, a combustion engine-powered vehicle, and in the second construction variant, the passenger car is, for example, a battery-electric vehicle.Thus, the side frame can be used across different vehicle variants for both internal combustion engine-powered passenger cars and battery electric vehicles,24-2536 PIF.

[0041] 9

[0042] This allows for a particularly low manufacturing cost for producing the various design variants. For example, an automatically opening and / or closing charging flap that can be recessed into the side frame can be achieved, allowing for a particularly customer-optimized design of the charging flap. Furthermore, the interaction between the charging plug and the vehicle's exterior can be significantly improved.

[0043] In order to make the construction variant particularly cost-effective to produce, it is further provided that the frame part has a third passage opening, in particular across construction variants, and at least one connection area, in particular across construction variants.

[0044] In the first design variant, the first and third through-openings are arranged in a mutual overlap. In other words, the first and third through-openings overlap in the first design variant. This means that the first and third through-openings can be connected or are connected. Put another way, in the first design variant, an area extending transversely to the inside of the side frame, across the first and third through-openings, opens into the surrounding area of ​​the passenger vehicle. In the first design variant, the fuel filler neck can be accommodated or is integrated, at least partially, within the third through-opening. This means that in the first design variant, the fuel filler neck can be positioned or is integrated, at least partially, within the third through-opening.Furthermore, in the first design variant, the tank filler neck can be attached to the frame part via the connection area, in particular at least indirectly or directly. In other words, in the first design variant, the tank filler neck can be connected to the frame part via the connection area, in particular at least indirectly or directly.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, in the second design variant, the second and third passage openings are arranged in a mutual overlap. In other words, in the second design variant, the second and third passage openings overlap. This means that the second and third passage openings are connectable or linked. Put another way, in the second design variant, the area extending transversely to the inside of the side frame opens into the surroundings of the passenger vehicle via the second and third passage openings. (See 24-2536 PIF.)

[0046] 10

[0047] In the second design variant, the charging socket can be accommodated or is already installed, at least partially, in the third through-opening. This means that in the second design variant, the charging socket can be arranged or is already arranged, at least partially, in the third through-opening. Furthermore, in the second design variant, the charging socket can be attached or is attached to the frame part via the connection area, in particular at least indirectly or directly. In other words, in the second design variant, the charging socket is connected to the frame part via the connection area, in particular at least indirectly or directly.

[0048] The side frame can therefore be used across different construction variants with minimal effort, allowing for various design options through the side wall elements. This also enables particularly easy attachment of the charging socket or the fuel filler neck. The geometry of the side wall element can thus be adapted to either the charging socket or the fuel filler neck.

[0049] To enable particularly cost-effective production of the body variants, the side wall elements of the passenger car extend to different distances in the transverse direction. This means that one side wall element extends further outwards than the other. In other words, the side wall elements have different widths in the transverse direction. This allows the vehicle body, especially the passenger car, to extend to different widths in the transverse direction depending on the body variant. For example, this allows for a widening of the passenger car, particularly in the rear area, in a very cost-effective way, especially in a sporty body variant.The geometry of the side wall elements can therefore be adapted in a particularly low-effort way, for example to allow for widening.

[0050] To minimize the manufacturing costs of the various construction variants, a further design alternatively or additionally provides for the side wall elements to extend to different distances towards the rear of the vehicle's longitudinal axis. In other words, one of the side wall elements extends further back than the other. In other words, the side wall elements in 24-2536 PIF

[0051] 11

[0052] The vehicle's longitudinal length, particularly towards the rear, can be varied. This allows the car body or passenger vehicle to be designed with different lengths along its length, enabling the creation of derivatives with varying lengths in a particularly cost-effective manner.

[0053] To enable particularly cost-effective production of the various configurations, a further embodiment features one, and in particular the first, wheel arch of one of the side wall elements being wider in the transverse direction of the vehicle than one, and in particular the second, wheel arch of the other side wall element. In other words, the wheel arches of the side wall elements differ in their width, especially when extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle. This means that the wheel arch of one of the side wall elements extends further outwards in the transverse direction than the wheel arch of the other. This allows for a widening of the wheel arch, particularly with wide tires, especially in one of the configurations.This design allows the wheel to be completely covered by the wheel arch along the vehicle's transverse direction and radially outwards, preventing the wheel from protruding beyond the wheel arch. This eliminates the need for additional cover elements, particularly flaps or spats.

[0054] The definition or formation of the wheel arch is achieved, at least in part, by the aforementioned wheel arch or the respective wheel arch. For example, at least one of the side wall elements includes the wheel arch with a base body, and the wheel arch further comprises a wheel arch extension that projects outwards from the base body in the transverse direction of the vehicle. This creates the aforementioned wheel arch extension, which can also be referred to as fender flares. The wheel arch extension is, for example, formed as a single piece, or in particular, as a single component, with the base body.

[0055] Alternatively, the wheel arch extension part and the base body can be designed separately from each other, which means that the wheel arch can be designed in multiple parts, in particular in multiple pieces.

[0056] In a further development, it is planned that in the respective construction variant, the respective side wall element is painted before the respective 24-2536 PIF is attached.

[0057] 12

[0058] The side wall element is attached to the respective frame section. In other words, in each construction variant, the respective side wall element is pre-painted and held in place by the frame section. This means that the painting of the respective side wall element is carried out, or has been carried out, before the respective side wall element is attached to the frame section. The respective side wall element can thus be painted, similar to an exterior panel, before its installation and then connected to the body in the form of the side frame. The painting is carried out, for example, by means of an immersion coating process using electrophoretic deposition, in particular cathodic dip painting (e-coating).

[0059] To enable particularly cost-effective production of the various configurations, in a further embodiment, each side wall element is held to the frame member by at least one screw connection and / or at least one snap connection. This means that the holding or fastening of the respective side wall element to the frame member is effected by the at least one screw connection and / or at least one snap connection. In other words, in the first configuration, the first side wall element is held to the frame member by at least one screw connection and / or at least one snap connection, in particular at least indirectly or directly, and in the second configuration, the second side wall element is held to the frame member by at least one screw connection and / or at least one snap connection, in particular at least indirectly or directly.A snap connection can be understood to mean, in particular, a clip connection. Thus, the respective side panel element is clipped to the frame part, especially directly.

[0060] To enable particularly cost-effective production of the various construction variants, the frame component, in a further embodiment, has at least one sealing surface, in particular one that is common to all construction variants, on which at least one sealing element, in particular one designed separately from the side frame and / or the respective side wall element, can be arranged, for example, at least indirectly or directly. Thus, the sealing element rests against the frame component, in particular directly, via the sealing surface. In particular, the sealing element can be attached to or is attached to the frame component via the sealing surface, for example, directly. By means of the sealing element, the passenger compartment is sealed off from the surroundings of the 24-2536 PIF.

[0061] 13

[0062] The passenger compartment of a passenger vehicle can be sealed or sealed by bypassing or avoiding the respective side wall element. This means that in the first design variant, the passenger compartment can be sealed or sealed from the environment by bypassing or avoiding the first side wall element, and that in the second design variant, the passenger compartment can be sealed or sealed from the environment by means of the sealing element, bypassing or avoiding the second side wall element. In other words, in each design variant, the passenger compartment can be sealed or sealed from the environment by means of the sealing element without the involvement of the respective side wall element.Thus, a sealing function for the passenger compartment is achieved by means of the sealing element, particularly without the side wall element. This means that the side frame, and especially the vehicle body, is already sealed before the respective side wall element is mounted to the frame section, ensuring that the passenger compartment is sealed from the environment. The sealing function for the passenger compartment is therefore already achieved by the side frame, allowing this sealing function to be implemented across different design variants. This enables the side wall elements to be mounted to the frame section with minimal effort.

[0063] A second aspect of the invention relates to a method for manufacturing at least two, in particular different, body variants of a passenger car, especially by means of a modular system according to the first aspect of the invention. Thus, in the method, the body variants are manufactured according to the modular system, that is, in particular by applying the modular system. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0064] The procedure involves at least the following steps:

[0065] - Providing a side frame, in particular a cross-variant side frame, in particular a respective instance of the side frame, wherein the side frame, in particular the respective instance of the side frame, at least partially limits a front door opening provided for a front side door and a rear door opening provided for a rear side door, which is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle behind the front door opening, wherein the side frame extends the rear door opening in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle to the rear. 24-2536 PIF

[0066] 14

[0067] at least partially limiting, in particular rear, frame part which at least partially limits a, in particular rear, wheel housing, and - providing two different and separately designed, in particular variant-specific, side wall elements.

[0068] In order to manufacture the various construction variants with minimal effort, the invention provides or uses, for example, a first instance of the side frame (particularly for multiple construction variants) and, specifically with regard to the side wall elements, a first instance of the side wall elements (particularly specific to the construction variant). In the first construction variant, this first instance of the side wall element is arranged on an outer surface of the frame part, particularly of the frame part of the first instance of the side frame, which points outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle, and is connected to the frame part, particularly to the frame part of the first instance of the side frame. This means that in the first construction variant, the first side wall element is attached to the frame part.To produce a second construction variant, the side frame, particularly the one applicable across construction variants, is provided or used, for example, a second instance of the side frame, and, specifically with regard to the side wall elements, a second instance of the side wall elements, particularly specific to the construction variant, which in the second construction variant is arranged on the outside of the frame part, in particular the frame part of the second instance of the side frame, and connected to the frame part, in particular the second instance of the side frame. This means that the second side wall element is attached to the frame part.

[0069] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown in the figures alone, are not only usable in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own.

[0070] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a preferred embodiment and the drawings. The drawings show:

[0071] Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a modular system according to the invention; and24-2536 PIF

[0072] 15

[0073] Fig. 2 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of a passenger car with a car body according to a first construction variant of a modular system according to the invention; and

[0074] Fig. 3 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of a passenger car with a car body according to a first construction variant of a modular system according to the invention to illustrate a first side wall element; and

[0075] Fig. 4 shows a schematic partial view of a passenger car with a car body according to a second construction variant of a modular system according to the invention; and

[0076] Fig. 5 shows a schematic partial view of a passenger car with a car body according to a second construction variant of a modular system according to the invention to illustrate a second side wall element; and

[0077] Fig. 6 shows a schematic partial view of a passenger car with a side frame of a modular system according to a further embodiment of the invention.

[0078] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0079] Fig. 1 shows a modular system 1 for manufacturing at least two body variants 2, 3 of a car body 4 for a passenger car. In a first body variant of the passenger car, the passenger car has, for example, the car body 4 according to the first body variant 2. In a second body variant of the passenger car, the passenger car has, for example, the car body 4 according to the second body variant 3.

[0080] Figures 2 and 3 show the passenger car, in particular the car body 4, in a respective schematic and perspective partial view. Figures 224-2536 PIF

[0081] 16

[0082] and Fig. 3 shows the passenger car according to the first construction variant or the car body 4 according to the first construction variant 2.

[0083] The modular system 1 has a side frame 5, which is particularly common across different construction variants and is therefore a part of the vehicle body 4. The side frame 5 is made, for example, of metal, such as steel or aluminum, in particular an aluminum alloy, or of plastic, such as carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP).

[0084] Figures 4 and 5 show a schematic partial view of the passenger car, where in Figures 4 and 5 the passenger car has the car body 4 according to the second construction variant 3. Thus, Figures 4 and 5 specifically depict the passenger car according to a second construction variant.

[0085] The side frame 5 has a front door opening 6 for a front side door and a rear door opening 7 for a rear side door. In other words, the side frame 5 at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, limits the front door opening 6 and the rear door opening 7. The rear door opening 7 is located behind the front door opening 6 in the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle.

[0086] The side frame 5, in particular an outer part 9 of the side frame 5, has at least one, in particular a rear, frame part 10. Accordingly, the side frame 5 has, for example, the outer part 9 and at least one, in particular a separate, inner part, which is arranged, in particular attached, to the inside of the outer part 9 in the transverse direction 11 of the passenger car. The longitudinal direction 8 and the transverse direction 11 of the vehicle are illustrated in Figures 2 to 5 by means of a coordinate system 12, which also illustrates the vertical direction 13 of the passenger car.

[0087] Furthermore, the frame part 10 limits the rear door opening 7 in the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely.

[0088] For example, the frame part 10 extends in the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle so far to the rear as to at least a coupling point over which at least one transverse structure 24-2536 PIF

[0089] 17

[0090] a vehicle rear can be connected or is connected to the side frame 5, in particular to the frame part 10.

[0091] The frame part 10 at least partially defines a wheel housing 14, particularly a rear one. For example, the frame part 10 surrounds the wheel housing 14 in its circumferential direction between 0 and 180 degrees, for example at least by 90 degrees, and in particular by at least 120, 130, or 135 degrees.

[0092] Furthermore, the modular system 1 comprises at least two different, in particular separately designed, and in this case variant-specific, side wall elements 15, 16. The side wall elements 15, 16 are shown in Fig. 3 and in Fig.

[0093] 5. In Fig. 3, a first of the side wall elements 15 is shown, and in Fig. 5, a second of the side wall elements 16 is shown. In Fig. 2 and in Fig. 4, the side wall elements 15, 16 are not shown, which makes the frame part 10 particularly easy to see in Fig. 2 and in Fig. 4.

[0094] To minimize the manufacturing effort for producing construction variants 2 and 3, the first construction variant 2 comprises the side frame 5 and the first side wall element 15, which in the first construction variant 2 is held on the frame part 10 on an outer surface 17 of the frame part 10 that faces outwards in the transverse direction 11 of the vehicle, specifically as the first outer paneling element. The second construction variant 3 comprises the side frame 5 and the second side wall element 16, which in the second construction variant 3 is held on the frame part 10 on the outer surface 17 of the frame part 10, specifically as the second outer paneling element. The respective side wall element 15, 16, also referred to as the "rear side wall," can thus be used as the respective outer paneling element, i.e., as paneling in a single assembly. Therefore, the respective side wall element 15, 16 can, in particular, be considered an outer paneling element.Alternatively or additionally, the respective side wall element 15, 16 is designed in particular as a body component, that is, in particular as part of the vehicle body 4, wherein the respective side wall element 15, 16 is used, for example, according to a respective outer paneling part, that is, it can be arranged on the side frame 5 according to an outer paneling part. This means that the respective side wall element 15, 16 can be attached or mounted, for example, like a panel on the side frame 5, in particular the frame part 10. The side frame 5 can thus be used across different construction variants, whereby the different side wall elements 15, 16 enable the different construction variants 2, 324-2536 PIF.

[0095] 18

[0096] This can be achieved. For example, the frame part 10, particularly in the fully manufactured state of the vehicle body 4, is not visible, as it is covered, for example, completely, by the respective side wall element 15, 16, especially in the transverse direction 11 of the vehicle. Thus, particularly in the respective construction variants 2, 3, the frame part 10, especially in the transverse direction 11 of the vehicle, is covered, especially completely, by the respective side wall element 15, 16. The frame part 10 therefore has, so to speak, "no design," meaning that the design of the side frame 5, for example, with respect to the frame part 10 and the respective side wall element 15, 16, is determined exclusively by the respective side wall element 15, 16. This allows the different design requirements of construction variants 2, 3 to be taken into account.This allows for a particularly simplified approach to variant creation, for example, for different design variants, lifecycle impulses, and / or sporty vehicle variants, or the like. Furthermore, repairing a passenger car after an accident can be significantly simplified, as the respective side panel element 15, 16 can be replaced, for example, as a cover.

[0097] This can result in a particularly favorable insurance classification for the passenger car.

[0098] The respective side wall element 15, 16 is made, for example, of metal, such as steel or aluminum, in particular an aluminum alloy, or of plastic, such as carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP). Alternatively, the respective side wall element 15, 16 is made, for example, of a renewable raw material, in particular wood, such as bamboo.

[0099] The respective side wall element 15, 16 can be attached directly or indirectly, for example via an adapter bracket, to the frame part 10. The adapter bracket can also simply be referred to as an adapter.

[0100] In the exemplary embodiment, the respective side wall element 15, 16 is provided that it limits the rear door opening 7 and the wheel arch 14, in particular each, at least partially, for example predominantly. The limitation of the rear door opening 7 by the respective side wall element 15, 16 is effected in particular at least partially in the longitudinal direction 8 of the vehicle to the rear. 24-2536 PIF

[0101] 19

[0102] Preferably, the first side wall element 15 has a first through-opening 18, which is provided for a tank filler neck 19. The second side wall element 16 preferably has a second through-opening 20, distinct from the first through-opening 18, which is provided for a charging port 21, which can be understood to be, in particular, a charging recess. The through-openings 18, 20 can, in particular, be shaped differently from one another, i.e., for example, be of different sizes and / or have different geometries. Thus, different construction variants 2, 3 with tank filler neck 19 and charging port 21 can be implemented.

[0103] In the present case, the frame part 10 has a third through-opening 22, which is distinct from the first and / or second through-openings 18, 20, and at least one connection area 23. In the first design variant 2, the first through-opening 18 and the third through-opening 22 are arranged overlapping each other, and the tank filler neck 19 is at least partially receptible or accommodated in the third through-opening 22 and can be attached or fastened to the frame part 10 via the connection area 23. In the second design variant 3, the second through-opening 20 and the third through-opening 22 are arranged overlapping each other, and the charging socket 21 is at least partially receptible or accommodated in the third through-opening 22 and can be attached or fastened to the frame part 10 via the connection area 23.Accessibility for mounting the tank filling pipe 19 and the charging socket 21 can be particularly improved because the frame part 10 is especially easily accessible from the outside before the mounting of the respective side wall element 15, 16, and is only covered later, i.e. after the tank filling pipe 19 or the charging socket 21 has been mounted, by the respective side wall element 15, 16.

[0104] The fuel filler neck 19 and / or the charging socket 21 are attached, for example, by means of at least one, in particular each, screw connection. The screw connections for forming these screw connections are accessible, in particular, from the outside. Thus, the fuel filler neck 19 and / or the charging socket 21 can be screwed, or are screwed, to the frame part 10 from the outside, particularly in the transverse direction 11 of the vehicle. A fuel filler flap, which is pivotable about a pivot axis, is attached to the fuel filler neck 19, for example, via at least one fuel filler flap hinge and / or via another mechanism, such as a rotatable, pivotable, and / or retractable one. The 24-2536 PIF

[0105] 20

[0106] The fuel filler flap hinge is attached, for example, directly to the frame part 10. A charging flap, which is pivotable about a pivot axis, is arranged, for example, on the charging socket 21. The charging flap is attached, for example, to the frame part 10. The fuel filler flap hinge and the charging flap are accessible, in particular, from the outside.

[0107] In the present case, each side wall element 15, 16 has a respective fastening area, which allows the respective side wall element 15, 16 to be held or is held on the frame part 10, i.e., it can be fastened or is fastened.

[0108] For example, in the respective construction variant 2, 3, the respective side wall element 15, 16 is held or is held on the frame part 10 by means of at least one, in particular, screw connection and / or by means of at least one, in particular, snap connection, in particular via the respective fastening area. The fastening can be carried out directly or via the adapter carrier. The screwing is carried out, for example, at at least one first fastening point 24 of the side frame 5. This screwing is carried out, for example, by means of at least one bolt and / or by means of at least one nut. The bolt or the nut can thus be provided or be provided for screwing the respective side wall element 15, 16 to the frame part 10.The at least one fastening point 24 is thus covered by the respective side wall element 15, 16, particularly after assembly of the respective side wall element 15, 16. The snap connection is made, for example, at at least one second fastening point 25 of the frame part 10, which is spaced apart from the first fastening point 24. Fastening by means of the snap connection can, for example, be effected by means of a bolt. The bolt can thus be provided for connecting the respective side wall element 15, 16 to the frame part 10 by means of clips. The fastening points 24, 25 can each be arranged in a front or in a respective rear area of ​​the frame part 10.The respective side wall element 15, 16 is preferably fastened by means of a screw connection and a snap connection, thus allowing for additional fastening by means of a snap connection, i.e., for example, via clips or clip strips, in addition to the screw connection. At least one of the first fastening points 24 can be covered, for example, by a sill cover, in particular a full sill cover. The joint between the respective side wall element 15, 16 and the frame part 10 can be determined depending on the design. For example, in Fig. 2 and in Fig. 424-2536 PIF.

[0109] 21

[0110] The illustrated area 26 shows that a minimal joint or an additional decorative trim may be provided or will be provided. This means that a minimal joint can be formed, or an alternative in combination with a trim.

[0111] For example, the frame part 10 has at least one sealing surface 27 (not shown in Figures 2 to 5) on which at least one sealing element can be arranged or is arranged, by means of which a passenger compartment 28 of the passenger car can be sealed or is sealed against its surroundings 29. This sealing preferably occurs bypassing the respective side wall element 15, 16, i.e., independently of the respective side wall element 15, 16. This means that the sealing is or can be effected, in particular, already without the respective side wall element 15, 16, i.e., even before the respective side wall element 15, 16 is mounted on the frame part 10. Thus, for example, the aforementioned sealing can be effected at a rear area 8 of the side frame 5 in the form of the frame part 10.This rear section provides, in particular, the aforementioned fastening points 24, 25, i.e., screw points and / or clip points for the respective side wall elements 15, 16. Accordingly, the frame part 10 can be arranged as a separating component to divide a dry area from a wet area, with the respective side wall element 15, 16 being located, for example, in the wet area. The side frame 5, also referred to as the "outer side frame," can thus remain at the interface with the dry area, acting as a kind of "glasses," and provide the aforementioned seal. The respective side wall element 15, 16 is, for example, simply clipped onto the frame part 10 like a cover and minimally screwed in place.

[0112] The side frame 5 can therefore be equipped with brackets for the fuel filler neck 19 (also referred to as the fuel filler cap) and / or the charging socket 21, and can be equipped, for example, with brackets or bolts for fastening to the respective side wall element 15, 16. These brackets can be screwed or are screwed to the side frame 5 from the outside, particularly in the transverse direction 11 of the vehicle.

[0113] For example, it is intended that the side wall elements 15, 16 in the first and second construction variants 2, 3 extend differently outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle 11 and / or differently to the rear in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 8 24-2536 PIF

[0114] 22

[0115] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided, for example, that the side wall elements 15, 16 in a third construction variant of the vehicle body 4, which differs from the first and second construction variants 2, 3, extend to different distances in the transverse direction 11 and / or to the rear in the longitudinal direction 8 compared to the first and / or the second construction variants 2, 3. For example, a wheel arch 30 of one of the side wall elements 15, 16 is wider in the transverse direction 11 than a wheel arch 30 of the other of the side wall elements 15, 16. Thus, for example, in one of the construction variants 2, 3, the wheel arch 30 of one of the side wall elements 15, 16 is wider in the transverse direction 11 than the wheel arch 30 of the other of the side wall elements 15, 16 in the other of the construction variants 2, 3.Alternatively or additionally, for example in the third construction variant or in a fourth construction variant of the motor vehicle body 4 that differs from the third construction variant, the wheel arch of one of the side wall elements 15, 16 in the transverse direction of the vehicle 11 is wider than the wheel arch 30 of the side wall elements 15, 16 in the first and / or the second construction variant 2, 3. The wider wheel arch allows, for example, sporty construction variants of the passenger car to be differentiated better or significantly better, especially in a particularly cost-effective manner, thus eliminating the need for additional wheel arch widening in the form of spats or flaps.

[0116] Figure 6 shows a schematic partial side view of the car body 4, or passenger car, as an example of the second construction variant 3. Figure 6, particularly in conjunction with Figure 4, shows that the rear section 32 of the side frame 4 can be designed or redesigned in such a way that individual components can be grouped together. Thus, the rear section 32 of the side frame 5 can, for example, comprise only a few, and especially simple, components, and may even be formed in one piece. For example, a rear spoiler is not required, which eliminates the need for sealing the rear spoiler. Furthermore, a particularly simple joining sequence can be provided, which, for example, can significantly improve access for clamps in the dry area.Furthermore, the side frame 5, in particular the outer part, can be designed to be particularly short, thereby enabling a significantly shorter outer side frame. In particular, the frame part 10 can be designed to be particularly short in the longitudinal direction 8 towards the rear of the vehicle. Between the frame part 10, referred to in particular as the outer side frame, and the rear area 32, which is referred to in particular as 24-2536 PIF.

[0117] 23

[0118] The "rear side frame" can be described as having, for example, a flange 31. The side frame 5 can thus be shortened, particularly on the outside, thereby opening up the potential to create new structures in the rear area 32 of the side frame 5.

[0119] For example, at least one, in particular a second, sealing element is held on the respective side wall element 15, 16, which is arranged, for example, on a side of the respective side wall element 15, 16 pointing towards the rear door opening 7 and / or on the wheel arch 30 of the respective side wall element 15, 16.

[0120] Overall, it can be seen that the respective side wall element 15, 16, also referred to as the respective rear side wall, can be used as a paneling part.

[0121] This ensures, for example, that the mounting of the fuel filler neck or charging port under the respective side wall element 15, 16 on the frame part 10 is always the same. Depending on the drive variant, a fuel filler flap opening or charging port opening can be covered by the respective side wall element 15, 16. Thus, the charging port opening is not present, for example, in a passenger car designed as an internal combustion engine vehicle (ICE), particularly due to the closed side wall element 16. This can be implemented much more cost-effectively using the respective side wall element 15, 16 as a paneling component, instead of a rigid side frame 5, especially the outer part, which is a particularly expensive component. Furthermore, an additional clamping frame in a body frame assembly can be omitted.Furthermore, the variance to be controlled in body construction can be kept particularly low. Furthermore, the occupancy of derivative positions in body construction can be kept particularly low. With a separate side panel in the form of the respective side panel element 15, 16, for example, a suitable outer skin can always be supplied, i.e., with or without a fuel filler neck or charging port opening. Furthermore, a wider design, especially in the previously described sporty vehicle, can be made possible.-2536 PIF.

[0122] 24

[0123] Reference symbol list

[0124] Modular system

[0125] first construction variant

[0126] second construction variant: car body, side frame

[0127] front door opening rear door opening vehicle longitudinal direction exterior part

[0128] Frame part, vehicle transverse direction, coordinate system, vehicle vertical direction, wheel arch

[0129] first side wall element second side wall element outside

[0130] first through-opening tank filler neck

[0131] second through-hole charging socket

[0132] third passageway connection area

[0133] first fixing point second fixing point area

[0134] Sealing surface

[0135] passenger compartment

[0136] Vicinity

[0137] wheel arch

[0138] flange

[0139] rear area

Claims

24-2536 PIF 25 Patent claims 1. Modular system (1) for the production of at least two body variants (2, 3) of a motor vehicle body (4) for a passenger car, comprising a side frame (5) which at least partially defines a front door opening (6) provided for a front side door and a rear door opening (7) provided for a rear side door, which is arranged in the longitudinal direction (8) of the vehicle behind the front door opening (6), and comprising at least two different side wall elements (15, 16), wherein the side frame (5) has a frame part (10) which at least partially defines the rear door opening (7) in the longitudinal direction (8) of the vehicle and which at least partially defines a wheel arch (14), characterized by the fact that • a first of the construction variants (2) has the side frame (5) and a first of the side wall elements (15), which in the first construction variant (2) is held on an outer surface (17) of the frame part (10) pointing outwards in the transverse direction (11) of the vehicle, and • a second of the construction variants (3) has the side frame (5) and a second of the side wall elements (16), which in the second construction variant (3) is held on the outside (17) of the frame part (10) on the frame part (10).

2. Modular system (1) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the respective side wall element (15, 16) at least partially limits the rear door opening (7) and / or the wheel arch (14).

3. Modular system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the first side wall element (15) has a first through-opening (18) which is provided for a tank filling nozzle (19), and / or the second side wall element (16) has a through-opening (18) separated from the first through-opening (18)24-2536 PIF 26 different, second through-opening (20) which is intended for a charging socket (21).

4. Modular system (1) according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that the frame part (10) has a third passage opening (22) and a connection area (23), wherein • in the first construction variant (2) the first through-opening (18) and the third through-opening (22) are arranged overlapping each other and the tank filling nozzle (19) can be received at least partially in the third through-opening (22) and can be attached to the frame part (10) via the connection area (23) and / or • in the second construction variant (3) the second passage opening (20) and the third passage opening (22) are arranged overlapping each other and the charging socket (21) can be received at least partially in the third passage opening (22) and can be attached to the frame part (10) via the connection area (23).

5. Modular system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the side wall elements (15, 16) extend to different distances outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle (11) and / or to different distances to the rear in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (8).

6. Modular system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that a wheel arch (30) of one of the side wall elements (15, 16) in the transverse direction of the vehicle (11) is wider than a wheel arch (30) of the other of the side wall elements (15, 16).

7. Modular system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that In each construction variant (2, 3), the respective side wall element (15, 16) is painted before being attached to the respective frame part (10). 24-2536 PIF 27 8. Modular system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that The respective side wall element (15, 16) is held on the frame part (10) by means of at least one screw connection and / or at least one snap connection in the respective construction variant (2, 3).

9. Modular system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the frame part (10) has at least one sealing surface (27) on which at least one sealing element can be arranged, by means of which a passenger compartment (28) can be sealed against a surroundings (29) of the passenger car by bypassing the respective side wall element (15, 16).

10. Method for producing at least two construction variants (2, 3) of a motor vehicle body (4) for a passenger car, comprising the steps: • Providing a side frame (5) which at least partially limits a front door opening (6) provided for a front side door and a rear door opening (7) provided for a rear side door, which is arranged behind the front door opening (6) in the longitudinal direction (8) of the vehicle, wherein the side frame (5) has a frame part (10) which at least partially limits the rear door opening (7) in the longitudinal direction (8) of the vehicle and which at least partially limits a wheel arch (14); and • Providing two different and separately designed side wall elements (15, 16), characterized by the fact that • to produce a first of the construction variants (2) of the side frames (5) and a first of the side wall elements (15, 16) are provided, which in the first construction variant (2, 3) is arranged on an outer surface (17) of the frame part (10) pointing outwards in the transverse direction (11) of the vehicle and is connected to the frame part (10), and • to produce a second of the construction variants (3) of the side frames (5) and a second of the side wall elements (15, 16) are provided, which in the second construction variant (3) is arranged on the outside (17) of the frame part (10) and is connected to the frame part (10).

Images