Motor vehicle lock

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock (1), comprising an electrically actuatable locking device (2), an energy storage device (3) for supplying the locking device (2), and a housing (4) in which the locking device (2) and the energy storage device (3) are arranged, wherein the energy storage device (3) is surrounded by a heat protection element (5) which is designed to reduce the transmission of heat originating from outside the housing (4) to the energy storage device (3). In this way, the service life and performance of energy storage devices (3), such as supercaps, in motor vehicle locks is improved.

Description

[0001] INTERNAL

[0002] Motor vehicle lock

[0003] The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock, comprising an electrically operated locking device, an energy storage device for supplying the locking device and a housing in which the locking device and the energy storage device are arranged.

[0004] In today's automotive industry, automotive locksmiths play a crucial role in the safety and functionality of vehicles. They are used in various vehicle components, such as doors, hatches, and sliding doors, to ensure secure locking. A key element of modern automotive locksmiths is the integration of an energy storage device, which guarantees a reliable power supply to the locking mechanism even in the event of a failure of the central vehicle power supply. In emergency situations, such as an accident with a battery disconnection, it is essential that the locking mechanism continues to function to allow access to the vehicle cabin or to activate safety mechanisms.

[0005] To ensure an autonomous power supply, supercapacitors, also known as ultracapacitors, are increasingly being used as electrical energy storage devices in modern locking systems. Compared to conventional batteries, supercapacitors offer the advantages of rapid charging and discharging capabilities as well as high power density. These properties are particularly beneficial in safety-critical applications, as they ensure that the required energy is available within fractions of a second.

[0006] One of the biggest challenges when using supercapacitors in automotive locksmiths is determining the appropriate storage capacity. Due to aging effects, supercapacitors experience a reduction in capacity over their lifespan. This generally necessitates an initially oversized capacity to ensure sufficient residual capacity for emergency opening even after 10 to 15 years. Temperature stress plays a crucial role here, as high temperatures can negatively impact the internal capacity.

[0007] Aging processes are significantly accelerated. In motor vehicles, supercapacitors can be exposed to considerable temperature fluctuations during operation as well as through environmental influences such as direct sunlight, which significantly affects their lifespan.

[0008] Supercapacitors consist of two conductive electrodes separated by a separator, resulting in a large internal surface area. This allows them to store a large amount of electrical charge in a small volume. Unlike batteries, supercapacitors store energy electrostatically, leading to significantly higher cycle stability. This characteristic makes them particularly suitable for applications requiring repeated rapid charging and discharging.

[0009] In the event of a vehicle crash where the battery may fail, supercapacitors act as a temporary energy source. In such a scenario, they ensure that the locking system remains operational, allowing occupants to exit the vehicle or providing emergency services with access to the interior. It is crucial that the supercapacitors release their stored energy as quickly as possible to supply the electromechanical actuators of the locking mechanism with the necessary power.

[0010] One approach to extending the lifespan of supercapacitors is the use of new materials and electrolytes that exhibit higher temperature stability and reduced aging effects. Advances in materials research are enabling the development of electrode materials with improved cycle stability and reduced degradation, resulting in longer operating times and increased safety.

[0011] Furthermore, the energy management system plays a crucial role in optimizing supercapacitor utilization. Intelligent charging and discharging algorithms minimize the stress on the supercapacitors, thus extending their lifespan. Adaptive control systems are employed for this purpose, continuously monitoring and adjusting temperature, charging, and discharging parameters accordingly.

[0012] German patent DE 102009050960 A1 discloses an energy storage device composed of a large number of supercapacitor cells. Several of these supercapacitor cells are electrically connected to form a storage module. Each storage module is encased in a housing that is in at least indirect thermally conductive contact with the housing. Several housings are stacked on top of or next to each other in such a way that at least some areas between the housings are permeable to a fluid.

[0013] Based on this, the purpose of the invention is to improve the service life and performance of supercapacitors in automotive locksmiths.

[0014] This problem is solved by the subject matter of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are found in the dependent claims.

[0015] According to the invention, a motor vehicle lock is provided, comprising an electrically actuated locking device, an energy storage device for supplying the locking device, and a housing in which the locking device and the energy storage device are arranged, wherein the energy storage device is surrounded by a heat protection element designed to reduce the transfer of heat originating from outside the housing to the energy storage device.

[0016] The solution according to the invention offers a significant improvement for automotive mechanics by employing a thermal insulation element that reduces heat transfer to the energy storage device. This measure contributes significantly to extending the service life and improving the performance of energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors, integrated into automotive mechanics.

[0017] One problem with using supercapacitors as energy storage devices in vehicles is their temperature sensitivity. High temperatures, such as those caused by engine heat, solar radiation, or other external heat sources, lead to accelerated aging of the supercapacitors and a resulting internal...

[0018] the associated reduction in their capacity. The solution according to the invention addresses this problem by integrating a thermal protection element that minimizes the heat input from outside the housing and thus enables a more stable operating temperature in a non-critical range for the energy storage device.

[0019] The thermal insulation element is designed to reduce heat transfer, which can occur through various mechanisms such as conduction, convection, and radiation. Depending on the specific design, the thermal insulation element can consist of heat-insulating materials with low thermal conductivity, or it can contain a phase-change material (PCM) that absorbs excess heat and releases it as the ambient temperature decreases. This thermal buffering effect ensures that the supercapacitors operate within an acceptable temperature range, thereby increasing their efficiency and lifespan.

[0020] A further advantage of the solution according to the invention is the possibility of improving the size and capacity of the supercapacitors used. Since the thermal stresses are reduced by the heat shielding element, smaller and more cost-effective supercapacitors can be used without impairing the functionality or long-term reliability of the system. This leads to a reduction in production costs and enables a more economical design of the entire locking system.

[0021] Furthermore, the thermal insulation element contributes to improved operational reliability. In critical situations, such as a vehicle crash with battery failure, the reduced heat load ensures that the supercapacitors can always provide the necessary electrical energy to activate the locking mechanism. This is crucial for the safety of the occupants, as it allows access to the vehicle cabin for rescue personnel or enables occupants to exit the vehicle independently.

[0022] An additional benefit arises from the increased flexibility in positioning the energy storage device within the vehicle lock. Thanks to the thermal insulation provided by the heat shield, the supercapacitors can be placed in various locations, INTERNAL

[0023] where they previously could not be used due to thermal stress. This opens up new possibilities for more compact and efficient locking systems with good integration into modern vehicle architectures.

[0024] Thus, the solution according to the invention offers a significant improvement in the operating conditions of energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors, in automotive repair shops. By reducing external heat transfer, the service life is extended, performance is maintained, and the system's economic efficiency is improved. At the same time, operational reliability is increased, particularly in critical emergency situations where a reliable energy supply is essential.

[0025] As mentioned previously, the thermal insulation element can incorporate a phase change material. A phase change material (PCM) is a substance capable of storing and releasing large amounts of thermal energy by changing its physical state – preferably between solid and liquid. The key advantage of these materials is that the phase change, for example from solid to liquid, occurs at a nearly constant temperature, thus enabling high heat storage capacity with minimal temperature fluctuations.

[0026] The fundamental functionality of PCMs is based on latent heat. When a PCM reaches a certain temperature, it begins to melt, absorbing a significant amount of heat without its temperature changing substantially. This absorbed heat is called the latent heat of fusion. Conversely, the PCM releases the stored heat when it solidifies. This property makes phase-change materials particularly suitable for applications where temperature stability is critical.

[0027] PCMs can be divided into three main categories, all of which are fundamentally applicable to the present invention: Organic PCMs are based on organic compounds such as paraffins or fatty acids. They are characterized by chemical stability, INTERNAL

[0028] They are corrosion-free and have a wide range of melting points. Paraffin waxes are particularly common because they are non-toxic and chemically inert. Inorganic PCMs, which include salt hydrates and metal alloys, offer a higher heat storage capacity compared to organic materials. Salt hydrates, for example, can be used to store excess heat in buildings and release it when needed. Eutectic PCMs consist of a mixture of several substances that have a constant melting point. They offer very precise temperature control.

[0029] According to a further development of the invention, the phase change material for the phase change has a phase change temperature between 35 and 45 °C, preferably between 38 and 42 °C. A significant advantage of this specific phase change temperature is that it lies precisely within the range above which supercapacitors typically become sensitive to elevated temperatures and experience accelerated aging effects. Temperatures above 45 °C significantly accelerate the electrochemical degradation of the supercapacitors, leading to premature capacity reduction and thus reduced availability of the stored energy. By specifically selecting a phase change temperature in this range, the PCM can effectively absorb and store excess heat before critical temperatures are reached, thereby stabilizing the operating temperature of the supercapacitors.

[0030] The temperature range of 35 to 45 °C was chosen to achieve the best possible balance between heat buffering and the rapid regeneration capability of the phase change material. The range of 38 to 42 °C is particularly preferred, as many automotive components operate within this temperature window under real-world conditions. This ensures that the PCM actively absorbs excess heat as soon as the ambient temperature becomes critical and releases it again when the temperature drops. This cyclical thermal regulation not only protects the supercapacitors from thermal overload but also ensures a consistent operating temperature over extended periods.

[0031] Another functional advantage of this advanced design is the improved energy efficiency of the entire locking system. Since the PCM absorbs excess heat and releases it again during cooler periods, the need for additional active cooling mechanisms is reduced or even eliminated. This leads to lower energy consumption and contributes to improved vehicle power supply. Furthermore, this passive thermal regulation allows for a more compact design of the vehicle lock, as no complex ventilation or cooling units need to be integrated.

[0032] The specified phase change temperature also contributes to the long-term stability of the supercapacitors. By reducing temperature fluctuations, electrochemical stability can be maintained throughout the system's lifetime. This results in a longer supercapacitor lifespan and reduces the need for initial oversizing, as aging processes are slowed. This allows for the use of smaller, lighter, and more cost-effective supercapacitors, which not only reduces production costs but also the overall vehicle weight—a crucial factor for fuel efficiency and sustainability.

[0033] In addition, the further development according to the invention offers a significant safety advantage. In critical situations, such as a vehicle accident with battery rupture, it is essential to ensure that the supercapacitors function reliably. Thermal stabilization within the intended temperature range prevents the supercapacitors from losing their capacity due to overheating or, in the worst case, from failing completely. This ensures that the electrical locking mechanisms remain operational at all times, thus enabling a smooth emergency opening of the vehicle.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, the phase change material is embedded in a matrix consisting of a thermally conductive material. A significant advantage of this arrangement is the improved heat distribution made possible by the thermally conductive matrix. While the PCM absorbs excess heat and stores it when it reaches its phase change temperature, the thermally conductive matrix ensures that the heat is distributed internally.

[0035] This ensures that the temperature is distributed evenly across the entire material. This prevents local hotspots that could impair the performance and lifespan of the energy storage device. This contributes to stabilizing the operating temperature and ensures that the PCM can operate efficiently.

[0036] Furthermore, embedding the PCM in a thermally conductive matrix improves its response rate to temperature changes. Conventional PCM elements often require considerable time to absorb or dissipate heat throughout their entire volume. The thermally conductive matrix significantly accelerates this process by rapidly distributing heat across the entire PCM area, thus enabling faster temperature adaptation. This is particularly advantageous in dynamic thermal environments, such as those frequently encountered in motor vehicles, for example, during sudden temperature increases due to engine heat or solar radiation.

[0037] Another significant advantage is the mechanical stability achieved by embedding the PCM in the matrix. Pure phase-change materials can change their volume during the change of state, which can lead to mechanical stresses or deformations. In this case, the thermally conductive matrix acts as structural support and prevents material displacement or unwanted deformations. This contributes to the long-term functional reliability and durability of the automotive lock.

[0038] Furthermore, combining PCM with a thermally conductive material offers greater flexibility in design and integration into the vehicle lock. For example, the matrix can be designed to meet specific installation space requirements and adapt to various geometries. This enables efficient placement of the energy storage device within the lock housing and contributes to a reduction in overall volume.

[0039] The thermally conductive matrix also offers advantages with regard to heat dissipation during cooler operating phases. While the PCM is internally exposed to high thermal loads...

[0040] By storing heat, the matrix can release the stored heat more efficiently to the environment during periods of lower temperatures. This keeps the system continuously in a thermally stable state, enabling longer and more efficient use of the supercapacitors.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the invention, the thermal protection element has a multilayer structure with at least one thermally insulating layer and one reflective layer. A key advantage of this multilayer structure lies in the combination of different thermal protection mechanisms, which together enable improved heat transfer reduction. The thermally insulating layer serves to minimize heat conduction and prevents heat energy from external heat sources, such as direct sunlight or engine waste heat, from transferring to the energy storage device. This layer typically consists of materials with low thermal conductivity, such as foams, aerogels, or special plastics, which provide an effective barrier against heat flow.

[0042] The reflective layer, on the other hand, is designed to minimize heat loss by reflecting a large portion of the incoming thermal radiation. This is particularly important for radiant heat, such as that generated by sunlight. Materials like metallized films or special coatings with high reflectivity ensure that a large portion of the thermal radiation is deflected from the surface of the heat shield before it reaches the housing. This significantly contributes to stabilizing the temperature conditions within the lock housing. The combination of a thermally insulating layer and a thermally reflective layer ensures that the heat shield provides a comprehensive thermal barrier, reducing both conductive and radiative heat loss.

[0043] The thermal insulation element can be formed by making the housing containing the locking mechanism and the energy storage device double-walled, with an outer wall and an inner wall. A significant advantage of this INTERNAL

[0044] The key to the double-walled housing design lies in its effective thermal insulation. The spatial separation of the outer and inner walls creates a thermally insulating cavity that acts as a barrier against heat transfer. Depending on the design, this cavity can be filled with insulating material or left as an air-filled space. In both cases, heat conduction from the external environment to the internal energy storage device is significantly reduced. This protects the supercapacitors from overheating.

[0045] Another advantage lies in the flexibility of thermal adaptation. The double-walled structure allows for the use of different materials for the inner and outer walls to specifically meet certain thermal or mechanical requirements. For example, the outer wall can be made of a heat-reflecting material to deflect solar radiation, while the inner wall consists of a heat-absorbing or thermally insulating material to maintain a constant internal temperature. This combination results in improved heat dissipation and distribution, thus protecting the system from both external heat and cold.

[0046] The area between the outer and inner walls can be under negative pressure. A significant advantage of this design lies in the substantial reduction of heat transfer through conduction and convection. In a vacuum, there are hardly any air molecules that could act as heat transfer agents. This reduces heat conduction between the outer and inner walls, ensuring highly effective thermal insulation. This is particularly important for the supercapacitors integrated into the lock, as their performance is highly dependent on the operating temperature. The vacuum-insulated environment drastically reduces heating from external heat sources, such as solar radiation or engine heat.

[0047] Furthermore, vacuum insulation offers the advantage that it requires no additional weight or volume compared to conventional insulation materials. INTERNAL

[0048] While conventional insulation materials such as foams or fiber insulation take up space and can increase the weight of the entire lock housing, the vacuum-based solution remains space-saving and lightweight. This allows for a compact design of the vehicle lock, which is particularly advantageous in modern vehicles with limited installation space.

[0049] Another advantage of this design is its long-term stability and maintenance-free operation. Since no gases or particles are present in the vacuum-sealed space that could cause degradation or contamination, the insulating effect remains constant over a long period. This reduces maintenance requirements and contributes to the overall reliability of the system. At the same time, the risk of moisture ingress is eliminated, which further protects electrical components such as the supercapacitors from corrosion or short circuits.

[0050] According to a further development of the invention, the thermal protection element is encapsulated with a thermally insulating material. A significant advantage of this design lies in the full-surface thermal insulation achieved by encapsulation with insulating material. In contrast to conventional housing designs, where cavities or air gaps may remain, encapsulation ensures a complete enclosure of the energy storage device. This significantly reduces heat transfer through convection, conduction, and radiation. This enables extremely efficient control of the supercapacitor's operating temperature.

[0051] Another functional advantage of potting with thermally insulating material lies in its mechanical fixation and vibration damping. In vehicle applications, locking mechanisms are frequently subjected to strong vibrations and mechanical stresses. The potting stabilizes the supercapacitors and other sensitive components within the thermal insulation element, protecting them from damage caused by shocks, impacts, or vibrations that can occur during driving. This results in a longer service life and increased operational reliability of the entire system.

[0052] Furthermore, the thermally insulating potting compound protects the energy storage device from environmental influences such as moisture, dust, and chemical substances. Particularly in harsh environments where the lock is exposed to corrosion, splashing water, or temperature fluctuations, the potting provides a reliable barrier against external influences. This minimizes the risk of short circuits, corrosion, and mechanical degradation.

[0053] Another advantage of this design lies in the uniform temperature distribution achieved through complete encapsulation with the insulating material. Temperature hotspots, which can occur in other designs, are effectively avoided by the potting. The insulating material ensures homogeneous heat distribution and prevents individual areas of the supercapacitors from being subjected to excessive thermal stress.

[0054] The thermal protection element can be in direct thermal contact with a heat dissipation device. A key advantage of this solution is the efficient dissipation of excess heat generated by the energy storage device, particularly the supercapacitors, during operation or due to external heat sources. By placing the thermal protection element in direct contact with a heat dissipation device, rapid and uniform heat transfer is enabled, effectively preventing temperature spikes. This helps ensure that the supercapacitors remain within their optimal operating temperature range.

[0055] Another functional advantage lies in the preventive cooling of the energy storage device, which prevents critical temperatures from being reached in the first place. In vehicles, supercapacitors can be subjected to considerable stress from engine heat, solar radiation, or high ambient temperatures. Direct connection to a heat dissipation device, such as a cooling plate, a heat-conducting plate, or a heat pipe, ensures that the heat is continuously dissipated and system efficiency is maintained.

[0056] The heat dissipation device can be designed as a passive or active cooling system. Passive systems utilize thermally conductive materials such as aluminum or copper to transfer heat to cooler areas of the vehicle or to the ambient air. This solution is particularly low-maintenance, energy-efficient, and cost-effective. In active systems, heat dissipation can be supported by liquid cooling or fans to ensure even more effective temperature control under particularly demanding operating conditions, such as long journeys in high ambient temperatures.

[0057] An additional advantage of this design is the increased operational reliability, particularly in emergency situations such as an accident involving battery failure. Because heat is dissipated quickly and efficiently, the energy storage unit remains functional and can provide the necessary energy to operate the locking mechanism. This is crucial for occupant safety, as it ensures access to the vehicle and the unlocking of doors and hatches even under extreme conditions.

[0058] Furthermore, direct thermal contact with the heat dissipation device enables a compact design for the entire locking system. The targeted heat dissipation allows the energy storage unit to be placed in confined vehicle areas without the need for additional bulky cooling mechanisms. This contributes to better use of installation space and weight reduction of the vehicle.

[0059] According to a further development of the invention, a fan is provided for the direct or indirect cooling of the energy storage device. This fan is configured to start operating at a predetermined temperature threshold. A key advantage of this solution lies in the demand-based temperature control, which enables efficient use of the energy storage device. The fan is only activated when a predefined temperature threshold is reached, thus avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. This contributes to improving the vehicle's energy efficiency and prevents the cooling system from consuming unnecessary resources when the operating temperature is within the safe range.

[0060] The fan provides direct cooling, preferably at the energy storage device, by directing cool air over the supercapacitors. This enables rapid heat dissipation, particularly in situations with sudden temperature increases, such as those that can occur during extended journeys, high ambient temperatures, or intensive use of the locking mechanism. The fan's rapid response to critical temperature levels ensures that the supercapacitors always operate within an acceptable temperature range.

[0061] The invention will now be explained in more detail using a preferred embodiment and with reference to the drawings.

[0062] The drawings show

[0063] Fig. 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0064] Fig. 2 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock according to a second embodiment of the invention,

[0065] Fig. 3 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock according to a third embodiment of the invention,

[0066] Fig. 4 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock according to a fourth embodiment of the invention,

[0067] Fig. 5 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock according to a fifth embodiment of the invention, INTERNAL

[0068] Fig. 6 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock according to a sixth embodiment of the invention and

[0069] Fig. 7 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock according to a seventh embodiment of the invention.

[0070] Fig. 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle lock 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The lock comprises an electrically operated locking device 2, an energy storage device 3 for supplying the locking device 2, and a housing 4 in which the locking device 2 and the energy storage device 3 are arranged. In this case, the energy storage device 3 is a supercapacitor characterized by rapid charging and discharging capabilities as well as high power density. A key feature is the thermal insulation element 5 surrounding the energy storage device 3. This thermal insulation element is designed to reduce the transfer of heat from the environment to the energy storage device 3, thereby significantly improving its service life and performance.

[0071] Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of the invention in which the thermal protection element 5 contains a phase-change material 6. The phase-change material 6 has a phase-change temperature in the range of 38 to 42 °C, enabling it to absorb excess heat when the temperature reaches this range and release this heat again when the temperature drops. This protects the energy storage device 3 from critical temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, the phase-change material 6 is embedded in a matrix 17 of thermally conductive material. This matrix 17 ensures a uniform distribution of heat within the phase-change material 6, prevents local hotspots, and improves the material's response rate to temperature fluctuations.

[0072] Fig. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which the thermal insulation element 5 has a multilayer structure. This consists of an insulating layer 7, which minimizes heat conduction, and a reflective layer 8, which rejects heat radiation. The INTERNAL

[0073] The combination of these layers provides a comprehensive thermal barrier that keeps the operating temperature of the energy storage device 3 stable and extends its service life.

[0074] Fig. 4 shows an embodiment in which the thermal insulation element 5 is formed by a double-walled housing 4 with an outer wall 10 and an inner wall 11. A negative pressure zone 12 is located between the outer wall 10 and the inner wall 11. The negative pressure 12 significantly reduces heat transfer by conduction and convection and protects the energy storage device 3 from overheating. This design offers a space-saving and lightweight solution for thermal insulation and increases the long-term stability of the system.

[0075] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment in which the thermal protection element 5 is encapsulated with a thermally insulating material 14. This encapsulation ensures complete enclosure of the energy storage device 3 and provides effective thermal insulation. At the same time, the encapsulation mechanically stabilizes the energy storage device 3, protecting it from vibrations, shocks, and environmental influences such as moisture or dust. This extends the service life of the energy storage device 3 and increases its reliability.

[0076] Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment in which the thermal insulation element 5 is in direct thermal contact with a heat dissipation device 15. The heat dissipation device 15 is symbolically represented here by an arrow indicating that heat is carried away from the housing 4. This device, which can be made of a thermally conductive material such as aluminum or copper, quickly and efficiently dissipates excess heat from the energy storage device 3. This prevents temperature spikes and stabilizes the operating conditions of the energy storage device 3. This increases the safety and performance of the locking system.

[0077] Fig. 7 shows an embodiment in which a fan 16 is provided for indirect cooling of the energy storage device 3 by cooling the thermal insulation element INTERNAL

[0078] 5 is supplied with cooling air, as indicated by the arrows. The fan starts operating when a predetermined limit temperature of 35 °C is reached. This demand-based cooling enables rapid heat dissipation, prevents overheating, and protects the energy storage device 3 from thermal overload. The fan thus contributes to increased operational reliability and the system's longevity. INTERNAL Reference List

[0079] Motor vehicle lock

[0080] Locking device Energy storage device

[0081] Housing

[0082] Thermal insulation element phase change material

[0083] insulating layer

[0084] reflective layer

[0085] Exterior wall

[0086] Interior wall

[0087] suppress

[0088] thermally insulating material, heat dissipation device, fan

[0089] matrix

Claims

INTERNAL Patent claims 1. Motor vehicle lock (1), comprising an electrically operated locking device (2), an energy storage device (3) for supplying the locking device (2) and a housing (4) in which the locking device (2) and the energy storage device (3) are arranged, wherein the energy storage device (3) is surrounded by a heat protection element (5) which is designed to reduce the transfer of heat from outside the housing (4) to the energy storage device (3).

2. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to claim 1, wherein the heat protection element (5) comprises a phase change material (6).

3. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to claim 1, wherein the phase change material (6) for the phase change has a phase change temperature which is between 35 and 45 °C, preferably between 38 and 42 °C.

4. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the phase change material (6) is embedded in a matrix (17) consisting of a thermally conductive material.

5. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heat protection element (5) has an insulating layer (7).

6. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heat protection element (5) has a reflective layer (8) to reduce heat transfer to the energy storage device (3).

7. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to claim 1, wherein the heat protection element (5) is formed by the housing (4) in which the locking device (2) and the energy storage device (3) are arranged being double-walled with an outer wall (10) and an inner wall (11).

8. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to claim 7, wherein the area between the outer wall (10) and the inner wall (11) is subjected to a negative pressure (12).

9. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of claims 1 and 5 to 8, wherein the heat protection element (5) is encased in a thermally insulating material (14).

10. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy storage device (3) is designed as a supercapacitor.

11. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heat protection element (5) is in direct thermal contact with a heat dissipation device (15).

12. Motor vehicle lock (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a fan (16) is provided for direct or indirect cooling of the energy storage device (3), which commences operation at a predetermined limit temperature.

Images