Motor vehicle lock

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock (1) having an electrically actuable locking device (2), an electrical component (3) which is in electrical contact with the locking device (2), and a housing (4) in which the electrical component (3) is located, wherein an elastic damping element (5) is arranged between the electrical component (3) and the housing (4). This solves the problem of protecting sensitive electronic components of a motor vehicle lock (1), in particular an energy storage device or a control unit, from mechanical loads occurring during vehicle operation.

Description

[0001] STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0002] 1

[0003] P24006WO

[0004] Motor vehicle lock

[0005] The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock comprising an electrically actuated locking device, an electrical component in electrical contact with the locking device and a housing in which the electrical component is arranged.

[0006] Automotive locks are locks for motor vehicles, which can be located in various parts of the vehicle. The automotive lock, specifically the locking mechanism, interacts with a locking bolt as soon as a corresponding vehicle door, hatch, sliding door, or similar is closed. For this purpose, the automotive lock is usually located in or on the vehicle door, hatch, or sliding door. The locking bolt, on the other hand, is located on the vehicle body, for example, on a B- or C-pillar. The locking bolt, also known as the lock pin, and the automotive lock together define a vehicle door lock.

[0007] Modern automotive locks incorporate a variety of functions, such as central locking, child safety locks, anti-theft devices, and crash protection systems, which perform safety-related functions or enhance comfort within the vehicle. These functions typically utilize an electric motor, either directly or indirectly. To control these automotive locks, electronic control units are used. An electronic control unit for controlling an automotive lock conventionally consists of a circuit board and the electronic components and energy storage devices mounted on it. The electronic control unit is usually located in the vehicle door, hatch, sliding door, or similar structure.

[0008] Modern automotive locks increasingly contain electronic controls and circuit boards that enable a wide range of functions. However, these electronics are subject to strong mechanical stresses, such as vibrations and impulses, as well as STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0009] 2

[0010] P24006WO

[0011] The electronic control unit of the vehicle's locking system is exposed to various environmental factors, particularly those occurring during vehicle use. These stresses can significantly impair the functionality of sensitive components, especially heavy components that are particularly susceptible to mechanical strain due to their mass. To ensure the reliable operation of the electronic control unit, it is necessary to take appropriate measures to protect these components.

[0012] Another essential element of modern automotive locks is an integrated energy storage device that supplies the locking mechanism with electrical power. This energy storage device ensures that the locking mechanism remains functional even in the event of a failure of the central vehicle power supply or in special operating situations, such as an emergency. Integrating such an energy storage device into the automotive lock places additional demands on the design and protection of the electronic components, as the storage unit must also be protected against external influences and mechanical stress.

[0013] From DE 10 2022 013 617 A1, an energy storage device is known which comprises a plurality of storage cells and a temperature control device for temperature control of the storage cells or of a cell assembly formed by the storage cells, wherein elastic means for shock-absorbing mounting or spacing are provided between a storage cell and another component, wherein the other component is another storage cell, a retaining element, another housing part, or a heat-conducting element. The elastic means are designed and configured as a functional component of the temperature control device.

[0014] Based on this, the object of the invention is to protect sensitive electronic components of a motor vehicle lock, in particular an energy storage device or a control unit, from mechanical stresses that occur during vehicle operation. STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0015] 3

[0016] P24006WO

[0017] This problem is solved by the subject matter of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are found in the dependent claims.

[0018] According to the invention, a motor vehicle lock is thus provided which has an electrically actuated locking device, an electrical component in electrical contact with the locking device and a housing in which the electrical component is arranged, wherein an elastic damping element is arranged between the electrical component and the housing.

[0019] The electrical component can be, among other things, an energy storage device to supply the locking mechanism, such as a supercapacitor, or a control unit to control the locking mechanism.

[0020] Door locks are exposed to high levels of vibration, shock, and environmental stresses, which can lead to damage or malfunctions of the electronics. By placing an elastic damping element between the electronic component and the housing of the vehicle lock, effective decoupling is achieved, reducing mechanical stress and increasing the service life and operational reliability of the electronic components.

[0021] The invention offers numerous advantages, in particular a significant reduction in the stress on sensitive components, as the elastic damping element absorbs and evenly distributes vibrations and shocks. This helps to minimize unwanted mechanical stresses on the electronic component, thereby reducing the risk of failure or premature aging. Especially for heavy electronic components such as an energy storage device, for example a supercapacitor, the invention provides a reliable protection solution that preserves their structural integrity and ensures a constant power supply to the locking mechanism. Furthermore, the integration of the damping element contributes to increasing the operational reliability of the entire vehicle lock by ensuring STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0022] 4

[0023] P24006WO

[0024] that the electronic control and energy storage components remain functional even under extreme conditions, such as constant door movements or temperature fluctuations.

[0025] A further advantage of the invention lies in the improved reliability of an electronic control unit for controlling the locking mechanism. Protection against vibrations and external influences ensures consistent operation of the control unit, thus preventing potential malfunctions. This is particularly important for safety-critical applications such as central locking systems or anti-theft devices, as reliable locking of the vehicle must be guaranteed at all times. Furthermore, the invention enables compact and space-saving integration of the electronic components into the housing of the vehicle lock without the need for additional structural reinforcements, which can lead to weight and cost savings.

[0026] The solution according to the invention thus offers the advantage of stress-free mounting of the electrical component, which also allows the use of materials with self-expanding properties without any problems. The damping element can be flexibly positioned at the upper or lower edge of the component to accommodate the operating conditions, particularly when supercapacitors expand in length during operation and assume a convex shape. Furthermore, materials are available that allow for excellent adaptation to the respective application. The self-adhesive strip form represents a cost-effective alternative to conventional two-component tools and significantly simplifies assembly. In addition, the damping element can be produced in the form of a foam bead, allowing for seamless integration into existing manufacturing processes, especially when this technology is already used for sealing doors.

[0027] The solution according to the invention thus offers an efficient approach to improving the robustness, durability and operational safety of automotive locks by providing an easy-to-install yet effective protective measure against STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0028] 5

[0029] P24006WO

[0030] Mechanical loads were implemented and the functionality of the electronic components was also improved.

[0031] According to a further development of the invention, the elastic damping element consists of a rubber-like material, in particular silicone, EPDM, or a comparable elastomeric material. EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber. It is a synthetic rubber known for its excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, and aging. EPDM remains flexible even at low temperatures and offers good chemical resistance to acids, alkalis, and polar liquids such as water and alcohols. All of the aforementioned materials are characterized by their high elasticity and excellent mechanical damping properties, which enable them to effectively absorb vibrations and shocks.This ensures that mechanical stresses acting on the electrical component during vehicle operation are absorbed, thus preserving the component's structural integrity and functionality in the long term. Furthermore, these materials are resistant to extreme temperatures, humidity, and chemical influences such as those encountered in the vehicle environment. This guarantees the continued functionality of the vehicle lock even under demanding conditions, such as strong temperature fluctuations or contact with aggressive media like road salt or oils.

[0032] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the elastic damping element is designed as a partial encasement of the electronic component. This partial encasement enables targeted damping in particularly stressed areas of the electronic component without covering its entire surface. This leads to a reduction in material usage and weight savings, which is particularly important in the automotive industry. At the same time, heat dissipation via unencased areas is ensured, which helps to prevent overheating of electronic components. Furthermore, this design facilitates the assembly and maintenance of the component, as easy access to uncovered areas for inspections or the replacement of individual components is maintained. STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0033] 6

[0034] P24006WO

[0035] A further embodiment of the invention provides that the elastic damping element is designed to dampen vibrations in the frequency range of 10 Hz to 2000 Hz. This includes both low-frequency vibrations caused by uneven road surfaces or vehicle movements, and high-frequency vibrations originating from engines or other mechanical components. The targeted damping of these frequency ranges prevents the occurrence of resonance effects that could lead to harmful mechanical stress and ultimately to premature wear or failure of the electrical component. This contributes significantly to the operational reliability and longevity of the entire vehicle lock.

[0036] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the elastic damping element is designed in the form of several separate damping zones, each exhibiting different mechanical properties. This enables differentiated damping in various areas of the electrical component, with harder zones serving to absorb larger impacts and softer zones to absorb fine vibrations. This differentiated structure allows the vehicle lock to respond effectively to varying loads, which is particularly advantageous in the case of repeated mechanical stresses, such as those caused by the constant opening and closing of the door. This reduces the risk of material fatigue and extends the overall service life of the lock.

[0037] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the elastic damping element also serves as a thermal insulator to reduce thermal stress on the electronic component. This is particularly important for sensitive components such as control units or supercapacitors, as excessive heat exposure can significantly impair their performance and lifespan. The insulating effect of the damping element ensures that temperature spikes, such as those caused by sunlight or nearby heat sources, are not transmitted unhindered to the electronic component. This contributes to maintaining a substantially constant operating temperature.

[0038] 7

[0039] P24006WO

[0040] to maintain operating temperature and thus ensure the reliability and efficiency of the electronic components.

[0041] In a further embodiment of the invention, the housing is provided with an additional sealing device that prevents the ingress of moisture and dirt into the area of ​​the electronic component. This sealing device protects the sensitive electronics from corrosion and short circuits that could be caused by water or dirt particles. Reliable sealing is particularly important in cases of frequent contact with rainwater, car washes, or environments with high humidity. The combination of the damping element and the sealing device thus contributes significantly to the robustness and reliability of the vehicle lock.

[0042] As already mentioned, according to a further development of the invention, the electrical component is an energy storage device for supplying the locking mechanism, in particular a supercapacitor. Supercapacitors offer the advantage that they can absorb and release electrical energy very quickly, which ensures reliable operation of the locking mechanism even in situations where the vehicle's electrical system fails briefly. This improves the safety and functionality of the vehicle, as the lock can be operated even during power interruptions or voltage fluctuations.

[0043] As already mentioned, according to a further embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is a control unit for controlling the locking device. This control unit performs a variety of functions, including controlling the locking mechanisms, processing sensor signals, and communicating with other vehicle control units. The integration of such a control unit enables intelligent control of the locking device, including safety functions such as automatic locking or crash unlocking, and contributes to increased user convenience. STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0044] 8

[0045] P24006WO

[0046] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the elastic damping element is designed in strip form and provided with a self-adhesive coating. This configuration significantly simplifies installation, as the damping element can be attached without additional fasteners. This reduces installation effort and the overall cost of the vehicle lock. At the same time, the self-adhesive coating ensures a permanent and reliable fixation that remains stable even under the influence of temperature fluctuations or mechanical stresses.

[0047] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the elastic damping element is designed as a foam bead that adapts to the contours of the electrical component during installation. This flexible structure enables seamless adaptation to various component geometries and ensures a uniform distribution of the damping forces. This is particularly advantageous if similar foam materials are already used for sealing in other areas of the vehicle, thus allowing for synergistic effects in production.

[0048] According to a further development of the invention, the elastic damping element comprises a compression tape. Compression tape, also known as expanding tape, is an elastic sealing material that can be used to seal joints and gaps. It typically consists of an open-cell foam impregnated or coated with a material to enable controlled swelling and sealing. In its compressed state, the tape is narrow and compact, making it easy to insert into narrow joints or gaps. Once installed and expanding, it conforms to the surrounding geometry and fills in irregularities to ensure a reliable seal against moisture, drafts, dust, or noise. A particularly advantageous feature of compression tapes is their ability to adapt elastically even when adjacent components move, without losing their sealing function.This property makes it ideal for applications where temperature-related expansion or vibrations occur. Furthermore, expanding tape is characterized by high weather resistance. Compression tapes are available in various materials – STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL.

[0049] 9

[0050] P24006WO

[0051] Various designs, thicknesses and swelling behaviors are available, so they can be very well adapted to the specific requirements of the application.

[0052] Finally, according to a further embodiment of the invention, the elastic damping element is arranged in such a way as to allow thermally induced expansion of the electrical component, in particular a supercapacitor. Since supercapacitors can expand during operation, this arrangement ensures that mechanical stresses are avoided and that functionality is maintained in the long term.

[0053] The invention will now be explained in more detail using a preferred embodiment and with reference to the drawings.

[0054] The drawings show

[0055] Fig. 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock according to an embodiment of the invention,

[0056] Fig. 2a shows a possible arrangement of an elastic damping element according to an embodiment of the invention,

[0057] Fig. 2b shows another possible arrangement of an elastic damping element according to an embodiment of the invention and

[0058] Fig. 2c shows yet another possible arrangement of an elastic damping element according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0059] Figure 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock 1 comprising an electrically operated locking device 2, an electrical component 3 in electrical contact with the locking device 2, and a housing 4 in which the electrical component 3 is arranged. The locking device 2 is connected to the electrical component 3 via electrical lines 7 through the circuit board 8. STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0060] 10

[0061] P24006WO

[0062] The electrical component 3 can be an energy storage device for supplying the locking device 2, in particular a supercapacitor. Supercapacitors enable rapid energy absorption and release, thus ensuring reliable operation of the locking device 2 even in the event of voltage fluctuations or brief interruptions in the vehicle's power supply. Alternatively, the electrical component 3 can be a control unit for controlling the locking device 2, which performs various safety and convenience-related functions, such as central locking or anti-theft protection.

[0063] Crucially, an elastic damping element 5 is arranged between the electronic component 3 and the housing 4. Here, the elastic damping element 5 is in the form of a strip and provided with a self-adhesive coating, by means of which it is attached to the electronic component 3. This self-adhesive design enables simple and cost-effective assembly, as additional fasteners are unnecessary. At the same time, the self-adhesive coating ensures a permanent and stable fixation of the damping element 5, which can flexibly adapt to different component geometries. The arrangement of two elastic damping elements 5 at the two ends of the electronic component 3 is particularly advantageous for supercapacitors, since these expand and bulge during operation.The elastic damping element 5 is arranged such that thermally induced expansion of the electrical component 3, in particular a supercapacitor, is permitted without restriction. This ensures that the supercapacitor can maintain its function without mechanical limitations or damage, thereby increasing the reliability and service life of the entire system.

[0064] Fig. 1 also shows that the housing 4 is provided with an additional sealing device 6 in the form of a rubber seal, which prevents the ingress of moisture and dirt into the area of ​​the electrical component 3. This sealing device 6 helps to prevent corrosion and electrical malfunctions caused by ingress of liquids or particles, which ensures the operational reliability of the vehicle lock 1, particularly in STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL situations.

[0065] 11

[0066] P24006WO

[0067] This ensures the performance of the device in demanding environments, such as high humidity or saline atmospheres. In the present embodiment of the invention, the elastic damping element 5 is made of a rubber-like material. This material can be, in particular, silicone, EPDM, or a comparable elastomeric material characterized by high elasticity, temperature resistance, and resistance to chemical influences. This enables the elastic damping element 5 to effectively absorb vibrations in the frequency range of 10 Hz to 2000 Hz, thereby reducing harmful mechanical stresses and ensuring the long-term functionality of the electrical component 3.

[0068] It is also possible for the elastic damping element 5 to be designed as a foam bead that conforms to the contours of the electrical component 3 during installation. This configuration offers the advantage of reliably compensating for unevenness, thus achieving a uniform load distribution on the electrical component 3. Alternatively, the elastic damping element 5 can be a compression tape. Compression tapes are characterized by their ability to expand after installation, reliably sealing joints or cavities. This property is particularly advantageous in applications where component tolerances or movements need to be compensated for, thereby ensuring permanent protection against external influences.

[0069] Figures 2a, 2b and 2c now show various possible geometric configurations of the elastic damping element 5.

[0070] Figure 2a shows that the elastic damping element 5 is designed in the form of several separate damping zones with different mechanical properties. The curved section of the damping element 5 rests directly against the electrical component 3 and is made of a softer material, while the straight sections of the damping element 5 are made of a stiffer material. This division allows for targeted adaptation to different loads, with the softer section absorbing smaller vibrations and the stiffer section absorbing larger mechanical shocks. This structure results in a STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0071] 12

[0072] P24006WO

[0073] improved protective effect and increases the durability of the electrical component 3, especially under changing operating conditions.

[0074] Fig. 2b shows an embodiment in which the damping element 5 completely encloses the electronic component 3. This complete enclosure provides comprehensive protection against vibrations and mechanical influences from all directions. In this configuration, the elastic damping element 5 also serves as a thermal insulator, thus reducing the thermal impact on the electronic component 3. This is particularly advantageous for electronic components such as control units or supercapacitors, as it prevents overheating and maintains a constant operating temperature, thereby increasing the efficiency and service life of the component.

[0075] Fig. 2c shows that the elastic damping element 5 can be designed as a partial encasement of the electrical component 3. This partial encasement allows for targeted damping in the most heavily stressed areas, while simultaneously ensuring sufficient ventilation and heat dissipation. This not only reduces the overall weight of the vehicle lock 1, but also simplifies maintenance of the electrical component 3 by maintaining access to certain areas. STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL

[0076] 13 P24006WO

[0077] Reference symbol list

[0078] 1 motor vehicle lock

[0079] 2 Locking device

[0080] 3 Electrical component

[0081] 4 cases

[0082] 5 elastic damping element

[0083] 6 Sealing device

[0084] 7 electrical lines

[0085] 8 circuit boards

Claims

STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL 14 P24006WO Patent claims 1. Motor vehicle lock (1) comprising an electrically actuated locking device (2), an electrical component (3) in electrical contact with the locking device (2) and a housing (4) in which the electrical component (3) is arranged, wherein an elastic damping element (5) is arranged between the electrical component (3) and the housing (4).

2. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to claim 1, wherein the elastic damping element (5) consists of a rubber-like material, in particular silicone, EPDM or a comparable elastomeric material.

3. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic damping element (5) is designed in the form of a partial sheathing of the electrical component (3).

4. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic damping element (5) is designed to dampen vibrations in the frequency range from 10 Hz to 2000 Hz.

5. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic damping element (5) is designed in the form of several separate damping zones which have different mechanical properties.

6. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic damping element (5) additionally serves as a thermal insulator to reduce thermal influence on the electrical component (3). STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL 15 P24006WO 7. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (4) is provided with an additional sealing device (6) which prevents the ingress of moisture and dirt into the area of ​​the electrical component (3).

8. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical component (3) is an energy storage device for supplying the locking device (2), in particular a supercapacitor.

9. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical component (3) is a control unit for controlling the locking device (2).

10. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic damping element (5) is formed in strip form and is provided with a self-adhesive coating.

11. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic damping element (5) is designed as a foam bead which adapts to the contours of the electrical component (3) during installation.

12. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic damping element (5) comprises compression tape.

13. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastic damping element (5) is arranged in such a way as to allow thermally induced expansion of the electrical component (3), in particular a supercapacitor.

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