[0001] The present invention relates to a release apparatus for vehicle doors.
[0002] The rear (or lateral) doors usually arranged to close the loading compartment of
trucks, vans, articulated trucks, heavy goods vehicles, trailers, and the like, are
usually associated with particular apparatuses intended for their release, which can
be operated when the user (for example the driver of the vehicle) indeed wishes to
have access to the compartment.
[0003] According to methods that are by now well-established, while the vehicle is moving
the door is in fact kept in the closed arrangement by engagement elements (hooks,
claws, etc.) fixed to the ends of a vertical rod, which is coupled rotatably to such
door. In this condition, the engagement elements engage respective retention elements,
which are fixed to the frame of the vehicle (above and/or below the door).
[0004] Each release apparatus of the known type therefore comprises a handle, which is integral
with the rod and is arranged substantially outside the door, so that it can be gripped
and turned by the operator who wishes to access the compartment. The rotation of the
handle causes the integral rotation of the rod and the consequent disengagement of
the engagement elements from the retention elements, thus allowing free rotation to
the door.
[0005] In addition to the general structure outlined above, however, it is necessary to
provide further solutions, which prevent the accidental rotation of the handle, obviously
to avoid the danger of unwanted openings of the door, for example while the vehicle
is moving.
[0006] For this purpose, therefore, the free rotation of the handle is hindered by a button,
which is usually arranged so as to interfere with the rotation of the handle proper
(or of a component that is integral therewith).
[0007] In this manner, only as a consequence of the voluntary pressing of the button is
it possible to space the button from the rotation trajectory of the handle in order
to allow indeed the opening of the door.
[0008] Besides, as a further safety assurance (and to limit access to the compartment only
to authorized personnel), apparatuses of the known type are also provided with key-operated
devices, which again allow free rotation of the handle only to the owner of the key,
the use of which allows indeed to deactivate a further hindrance to the movement of
the handle (or of the button) proper.
[0009] However, this constructive solution is not devoid of drawbacks.
[0010] The button usually has a complex shape, since it has must have an external surface
portion, intended to be pressed directly by the user, that is large enough to allow
indeed practical interaction, and at the same time a supporting structure for said
portion that vice versa must be able to ensure coupling to other components of the
release apparatus, usually in very confined spaces and therefore with the need to
comply with strict dimensional constraints.
[0011] In order to be able to comply with these requirements (and ensure adequate mechanical
strength), according to methods that are by now well-established the button is obtained
by means of a plurality of work steps, which usually include at least one weld, in
order to compose the finished button starting from two or more intermediate components
prepared separately.
[0012] For example, two respective supporting arms, responsible for rotary coupling to the
base of the handle, are welded to a main body that has the outer surface intended
to be pressed by the user.
[0013] These production methods are now entirely unsatisfactory, since they increase production
costs in an entirely unwelcome manner, both due to the need to provide multiple work
steps (which further require obviously long times) and due to the very nature of the
steps required.
[0014] Welding activities in fact suffer several drawbacks, which make them increasingly
undesirable: they in fact require qualified personnel for their execution and entail
rather long execution times (for placing the parts, for providing the beads and for
cleaning any slag).
[0015] Moreover, verifying the quality of the weld (which further is strongly influenced
by the skill of the specific operator) requires an operator qualified for visual inspection
or even the use of penetrating liquids, and in any case it is necessary to wait for
a significant time before being able to perform it, since post-weld defects can occur
hours later (cold cracks).
[0016] Finally, one should not forget that welding requires a specific cleaning process
with chemical products, the disposal of which causes further problems.
[0017] EP1531219 discloses a device for opening and closing the door of the body of trucks, trailers
and the like, comprising one handle that is rigidly coupled to a bar, which is supported
so that it can rotate along the door and to which respective pawl-like lugs are rigidly
coupled, the handle being associated with a respective base that is rigidly coupled
to the door and being manually rotatable from a first angular position for closing
the door, in which it is adjacent to the base and in which the pawl-like lugs are
engaged in respective locators provided in the chassis of the body, to an angular
position for opening the body, in which the handle is substantially spaced from the
base and in which the pawl-like lugs are disengaged from said locators so as to allow
free rotation of the door about its own axis for pivoting to the body, whereby the
base is constituted by at least two portions, which are mutually coupled by way of
connecting means, a first one of such two portions being adapted to be articulated
to the handle and a second one of such two portions being adapted to be fixed to the
door and accommodating means for retaining the handle in the angular position for
closing the door.
[0018] The aim of the present invention is to solve the problems described above, by providing
a release apparatus in which the button has low costs and production times.
[0019] Within this aim, an object of the invention is to provide a method for providing
buttons for apparatuses for releasing the door of vehicles that can be provided rapidly,
inexpensively, without requiring specific skills and without resorting to polluting
materials.
[0020] Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus in which the characteristics
and strength of the button can be checked rapidly and easily without requiring qualified
personnel.
[0021] Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus in which the button can
be manufactured even by operators lacking specific skills and without resorting to
polluting materials while ensuring high reliability in operation.
[0022] Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus that adopts a technical
and structural architecture that is alternative to those of apparatuses of the known
type.
[0023] Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus that can be obtained easily
starting from commonly commercially available elements and materials.
[0024] Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus that has low costs and
is safe in application.
[0025] This aim and these and other objects that will become better apparent hereinafter
are achieved by a release apparatus according to claim 1.
[0026] This aim and these objects are also achieved by a method according to claim 12.
[0027] Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will become better apparent
from the description of a preferred but not exclusive embodiment of the apparatus
according to the invention, illustrated by way of nonlimiting example in the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to the invention;
Figure 2 is a front elevation view of the apparatus of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a bottom view of the apparatus of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the base and of the button of the apparatus of Figure
1;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the button and of other components of the apparatus
of Figure 1;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the button of the apparatus of Figure 1;
Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the button of Figure 6;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of the laminar element of the button of Figure 6;
Figure 9 is a front elevation view of the laminar element of Figure 8;
Figures 10 and 11 are perspective views, taken with different inclinations, of the
handle assembly of the apparatus of Figure 1;
Figure 12 is a highly enlarged-scale view of a detail of Figure 11;
Figure 13 is a bottom view of the handle assembly of the apparatus of Figure 1.
[0028] With reference to the figures, the reference numeral 1 generally designates a release
apparatus for vehicle doors (typically but not exclusively for professional use).
[0029] These vehicles can be of the type of vans, heavy goods vehicles, trucks, articulated
trucks, trailers, and the like, and therefore comprise an internal compartment, which
is closed by at least one door (usually arranged at the rear) and is intended to accommodate
and transport goods of various kinds.
[0030] The use of the apparatus 1 to release doors mounted (at the rear or even laterally)
on means of transport of the type indicated above therefore constitutes a preferred
application of the invention and will be referenced constantly in the continuation
of the present description. At the same time, it is useful to note that the use of
the apparatus 1 according to the invention in different fields and/or for different
types of vehicle, as a function of the specific requirements, is not excluded (and
in any case is within the protective scope claimed herein).
[0031] The apparatus 1 comprises a base 2, which can be anchored in a stable manner to the
door: for example, the base 2 can be applied rigidly to the outer face of the door
or can be arranged and fixed in a recess provided for this purpose along said door
(along its external face).
[0032] Furthermore, the apparatus 1 comprises a handle assembly 3, which in turn can be
anchored to at least one rod A (shown only in Figure 1 for the sake of simplicity),
which in known manners can be coupled rotatably to the door (and typically held in
a vertical orientation).
[0033] The rod A supports respective means (hooks, claws, etc.) for anchoring to the frame
of the vehicle, substantially at one or both of its ends, which protrude from the
volume of the door.
[0034] The handle assembly 3 can rotate with respect to the base 2 (about the axis B along
which the rod A is arranged) between at least one locking configuration (in which
it is shown in the accompanying figures) and at least one release configuration (in
practice the handle assembly 3 can oscillate about these configurations).
[0035] In the locking configuration, the rod A is rotated so that the anchoring means mentioned
above can engage even indirectly the frame of the vehicle, preventing indeed the free
rotation of the door (when of course the latter is already arranged so as to close
the compartment).
[0036] For example, this condition can be obtained, in known manners, by arranging suitable
retention elements on the frame of the vehicle, above and below the position assumed
by the door, so as to indeed be able to affect the anchoring means and engage them
detachably.
[0037] In the release configuration, which is achieved with the partial rotation of the
handle assembly 3, the anchoring means are in any case disengaged from the frame of
the vehicle, so as to allow the free rotation of the door and access to the internal
compartment of the vehicle.
[0038] Moreover, a locking button 4 is coupled rotatably to the base 2 and in turn can move
reversibly between at least one first angular position (in which it is shown in the
accompanying figures) and at least one second angular position.
[0039] In the first angular position (and especially when the handle assembly 3 is arranged
in the locking configuration), the button 4 is arranged even indirectly so as to interfere
with the movement of the handle assembly 3.
[0040] As long as it is held in this first angular position, it is thus impossible to move
the handle assembly 3 from the locking configuration.
[0041] In this manner, in the first angular position the button 4 prevents any accidental
releases, due for example to impacts and stresses against the door, the base 2 or
the handle assembly 3, which might lead the latter to rotate in an unwanted manner
(for example during vehicle motion) and therefore cause the disengagement of the rod
A and of the anchoring means from the retention elements.
[0042] Vice versa, in the second angular position, the button 4 is in any case spaced from
the handle assembly 3 and therefore allows the movement of the handle assembly 3 (and
the opening of the door).
[0043] According to the invention, the button 4 (which is the subject of Figures 6 and 7)
comprises a laminar element 5 (Figures 8 and 9), which is provided in one piece and
has a central portion 5a that is substantially flat (and at most slightly curved at
the sides) and can be pressed directly by the user. Such central portion 5a is interposed
between respective mutually opposite end flaps 5b, which are bent and articulated
to the base 2 (in the manners that will be described hereinafter in relation to a
possible embodiment).
[0044] It should be noted, therefore, that the laminar element 5 (which constitutes the
button 4 or at least its primary component) is obtained starting from a single body,
simply by bending, therefore without resorting to any welding step, and therefore
achieving from the outset the intended aim.
[0045] In particular, the laminar element 5 is substantially constituted by a metal plate,
which is cold-deformed beforehand to provide indeed the bent flaps 5b (indeed without
resorting to any welding step).
[0046] Even more particularly, in the preferred constructive solution, which is mentioned
only by way of nonlimiting example of the application of the invention, the central
portion 5a has a bent end lip 6, which is optionally obtained by means of the same
cold deformation step that allows to obtain the flaps 5b.
[0047] When it is in the first angular position, the lip 6 is usually kept rested by forcing
against a transverse band that is shaped by the handle assembly 3.
[0048] In this manner, as long as the button 4 is not pressed, the lip 6 interferes with
the movement of the handle assembly 3 from the locking configuration to the release
configuration and therefore contrasts the rotation of the latter for the release of
the door.
[0049] Usefully, the flaps 5b have respective mutually opposite orifices 7, in which it
is possible to insert a respective transverse pivot 8 (Figures 4, 10 and 11), coupled
to the base 2, thus achieving the consequent articulation of the button 4 to such
base 2.
[0050] Even more particularly, the lip 6 is kept elastically in forced resting against the
transverse band by one or more springs 9 (again Figures 4, 10 and 11) which are indeed
wound around the transverse pivot 8.
[0051] Conveniently, the laminar element 5 comprises an auxiliary platform 5c, which is
extended so as to be substantially coplanar from the central portion 5a on the opposite
side with respect to the anchoring region of the handle assembly 3 to the rod A.
[0052] In this manner, the user can press directly the platform 5c instead of the central
portion 5a, thus benefiting from a longer lever arm and therefore achieving a facilitated
movement of the button 4.
[0053] Advantageously, the outer surface of the platform 5c that lies opposite the base
2 has an at least partial knurling 10, so as to facilitate interaction with the user
and in particular allow him/her an even easier pressing action when he/she wishes
to actuate the transition from the first angular position to the second angular position.
[0054] As already anticipated, the provision of apparatuses 1 in which the button 4 is constituted
substantially exclusively by the laminar element 5 is not excluded.
[0055] On the other hand, in the preferred constructive solution the button 4 comprises
usefully a structural reinforcement element 11 (Figures 4, 6 and 7), which is coupled
rigidly to the laminar element 5, in order to increase the mechanical strength (of
the button 4).
[0056] More particularly, and with further reference to the preferred (but not exclusive)
constructive solution, the reinforcement element 11 is constituted substantially by
a bracket that comprises a crossmember 12a and a pair of mutually parallel arms 12b
(which are indeed connected by the crossmember 12a).
[0057] As is evident from the accompanying figures (for example Figures 6 and 7), the arms
12b have a center distance that is substantially complementary (slightly shorter)
than the center distance of the flaps 5b and are inserted stably between them, the
crossmember 12a being arranged on the opposite side with respect to the central portion
5a of the laminar element 5.
[0058] It should be noted that the arms 12b are provided with holes 13 which are aligned
with the orifices 7, in order to allow the insertion of the pivot 8 for rotary coupling
to the base 2 in such arms as well.
[0059] Favorably, the arms 12b are provided with first mutually opposite holes 14 which
are aligned with second holes 15 provided along the flaps 5b.
[0060] In this way, corresponding mutual fixing elements 16, such as rivets, nails and the
like, are inserted in the holes 14, 15.
[0061] Thus, even in the embodiment that provides for an additional component for the button
4 (constituted indeed by the reinforcement element 11), no welding is necessary, since
the stable coupling between the laminar element 5 and the reinforcement element 11
is obtained in a fully practical and easy manner with rivets (or other mutual fixing
elements 16 of a similar type).
[0062] In the preferred constructive solution, also shown in the accompanying figures by
way of nonlimiting example of the application of the invention, the handle assembly
3 comprises at least one main plate 17 which is associated with means for fixing to
the rod A (indeed to allow the integral rotation of the rod A when the handle assembly
3 is moved).
[0063] The fixing means comprise a tab 18, which is adjacent to and integral with the plate
17 and is partially rolled up so as to define a (substantially tubular) insertion
seat 19 for the rod A.
[0064] Furthermore, the tab 18 is coupled to the plate 17 by means of at least one permanent
connection element 20, such as a rivet (preferably), a nail, and the like.
[0065] More particularly, in order to obtain the already mentioned further coupling between
the tab 18 and the plate 17, the tab 18 has two lugs 21 (although there might be only
one), which protrude from the ends of its terminal edge 18a that lies opposite the
plate 17. Each lug 21 and a respective lateral ridge 17a of the plate 17 are mutually
fastened by a corresponding permanent connecting element 20.
[0066] In summary, therefore, and although different constructive choices are not excluded
and are in any case within the protective scope claimed herein, in the preferred solution
the plate 17 has a substantially rectangular contour and the ridges 17a extend from
the two sides that are perpendicular to the rod A. The tab 18 in practice constitutes
a sort of extension of such plate 17 and has on the opposite side the terminal edge
18a, at which (at its ends) the lugs 21 are defined.
[0067] By way of the additional coupling, the risk that any stresses that act on the handle
assembly 3 might cause the deformation and/or unrolling of the tab 18 is avoided (or
at least significantly reduced). Differently from what occurs in known solutions (which
results to welds of the entire end edge to the handle), this result is achieved by
means of rivets or other permanent connection elements 20, which mutually fasten the
ridges 17a and the lugs 21, and therefore without incurring the numerous drawbacks
associated with welding processes.
[0068] The present description therefore also relates to a method for providing locking
buttons 4, which in turn are intended to be implemented in release apparatuses 1 according
to the particularities described in the preceding pages.
[0069] The method provides, in a step a., for the provision of a laminar element 5 in one
piece.
[0070] Then, in a step b., the method provides for bending two mutually opposite end flaps
5b of the laminar element 5, while a central portion 5a, interposed between the flaps
5b, is kept flat.
[0071] Then the method provides for articulating, in a step c., the end flaps 5b to a base
2 of the release apparatus 1.
[0072] More particularly, the bending step b. is obtained by cold deformation of the laminar
element 5, which is chosen of the type of a metal plate. In this step b., performed
by cold deformation or not, preferably the shaping of the end lip 6 is also achieved
at the same time.
[0073] In a manner similar to what has already been observed for the apparatus 1 according
to the invention, preferably the method according to the invention provides, in a
step d. that follows step b. and precedes step c., for rigidly coupling a structural
reinforcement element 11 to the laminar element 5 in order to increase mechanical
strength.
[0074] This step d. can be performed in the manner already described in the preceding pages.
[0075] Operation of the apparatus according to the invention is as follows.
[0076] When the door is arranged so as to close the internal compartment of the vehicle
and the handle assembly 3 is in the locking configuration, the anchoring means engage
directly or indirectly the frame of the vehicle proper and prevent the opening of
the door.
[0077] In order to have access to the compartment, the user must move the button 4 from
the first angular position (by pressing on the central portion 5a or on the platform
5c, for example) and simultaneously move the handle assembly 3: the rotation of the
latter in fact causes the rotation of the rod A and therefore the disengagement of
the anchoring means.
[0078] By applying a further traction on the handle assembly 3 (possibly on a handgrip 17b
that protrudes from the plate 17) it is thus possible to move the door.
[0079] In greater detail, in the locking configuration the button 4 contrasts the rotation
of the handle assembly 3 by means of the lip 6, which rests by forcing (by way of
the spring/springs 9) against the plate 17 (or in any case on the handle assembly
3).
[0080] As already anticipated, the button 4 (the laminar element 5) is provided in a manner
that is entirely practical and easy starting from a one piece body made of metal plate
which is bent at the flaps 5b.
[0081] After bending the flaps 5b, assembly with the base 2 is achieved in a simple manner
by means of the pivot 8, which enters the orifices 7 provided along the flaps 5b of
the laminar element 5.
[0082] Thus, the button 4 does not require any welding step and instead can be provided
by cold deformation (or in any case by means of the simple bending of the flaps 5b,
starting from a one piece body for example made of metal plate) rapidly and inexpensively
without any subsequent operation and additional costs.
[0083] Effectively, the embodiment that provides for the presence of the reinforcement element
11 ensures greater structural strength, but this does not go to the detriment of simplicity
and low cost of production, since the reinforcement element 11 can be easily fixed
to the laminar element 5 by means of rivets (or similar fixing elements 16), and therefore
again without welds or similar laborious processes.
[0084] The complete coupling of the tab 18 to the plate 17, which is required to avoid the
danger of deformations of the former, also is obtained without any resort to welding
steps.
[0085] The possibility to obtain the button 4 (and the other mentioned couplings) without
welds but simply by cold deformations and optionally by resorting to rivets or the
like allows to resort to personnel that lacks specific skills, and likewise any operator
will be able to perform the necessary quality inspections on the characteristics and
especially on mechanical strength.
[0086] Since it is not necessary to wait for the cooling of the parts to check for the late
onset of cracks (as occurs for welding work), the simple inspections that are required
can be performed promptly and rapidly (and without resorting to polluting materials).
[0087] Furthermore, differently from what occurs in known solutions, the provision of the
button 4 does not require the management of chemical products for cleaning, as instead
is necessary when welding steps are provided.
[0088] In practice it has been found that the apparatus and the method according to the
invention achieve fully the intended aim, since resorting to a button that comprises
a laminar element that is provided in one piece and has a substantially flat central
portion interposed between respective mutually opposite end flaps, which are bent
and articulated to the base, allows to provide a button by means of a method that
has low costs and production times.
[0089] The invention thus conceived is susceptible of numerous modifications and variations,
all of which are within the scope of the appended claims; all the details may further
be replaced with other technically equivalent elements.
[0090] In the examples of embodiment shown, individual characteristics, given in relation
to specific examples, may actually be interchanged with other different characteristics
that exist in other exemplary embodiments.
[0091] In practice, the materials used, as well as the dimensions, may be any according
to requirements and to the state of the art.
[0092] Where technical features mentioned in any claim are followed by reference signs,
those reference signs have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility
of the claims and accordingly such reference signs do not have any limiting effect
on the interpretation of each ` element identified by way of example by such reference
signs.
1. A release apparatus for doors of vehicles, such as vans, trucks, heavy goods vehicles,
articulated trucks, trailers and the like, comprising a base (2), which can be anchored
stably to the door, and a handle assembly (3), which can be anchored to at least one
rod (A) that can be coupled rotatably to the door and supports respective means for
anchoring to the frame of the vehicle, said handle assembly (3) being able to rotate
with respect to said base (2) between at least one locking configuration, in which
the anchoring means can engage even indirectly the frame of the vehicle, and at least
one release configuration, in which the anchoring means are in any case disengaged
from the frame of the vehicle, in order to allow the rotation of the door, a locking
button (4) being coupled rotatably to said base (2) and being reversibly movable between
at least one first angular position, in which it is arranged even indirectly so as
to interfere with the motion of said handle assembly (3), and at least one second
angular position, in which it is spaced from said handle assembly (3), in order to
allow the movement of said handle assembly (3), said button (4) comprising a laminar
element (5), which is provided in one piece and has a substantially flat central portion
(5a), which is interposed between respective opposite end flaps (5b), which are bent
and are articulated to said base (2), characterized in that said laminar element (5) is constituted substantially by a metal plate that is cold-deformed
to provide said bent flaps (5b).
2. The release apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said central portion (5a) is provided with a folded end lip (6), which is usually
kept, in said first angular position, in forced resting against a transverse band
that is formed by said handle assembly (3), for interference in the movement at least
from said locking configuration to said release configuration.
3. The release apparatus according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said flaps (5b) are provided with respective mutually opposite orifices (7) for the
insertion of a respective transverse pivot (8), which is coupled to said base (2),
and for the consequent articulation of said button (4) to said base (2).
4. The release apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that said lip (6) is kept elastically in enforced resting against said transverse band
by at least one spring (9), which is wound around said transverse pivot (8).
5. The release apparatus according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said laminar element (5) comprises an auxiliary platform (5c), which extends substantially
in a coplanar manner from said central portion (5a), on the opposite side with respect
to the anchoring region of said handle assembly (3) to the rod (A), for the facilitated
movement of said button (4).
6. The release apparatus according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outer surface of said platform (5c) that lies opposite said base (2) has an at
least partial knurling (10), for an easier pressing action on the part of the user,
for transition from said first angular position to said second angular position.
7. The release apparatus according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said button (4) comprises a structural reinforcement element (11), which is coupled
rigidly to said laminar element (5), in order to increase the mechanical strength.
8. The release apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that said reinforcement element (11) is constituted substantially by a bracket that comprises
a crossmember (12a) and a pair of mutually parallel arms (12b), said arms (12b) having
a center distance that is substantially complementary to the center distance of said
flaps (5b) and being inserted stably between said flaps (5b), so that said crossmember
(12a) is arranged on the opposite side with respect to said central portion (5a).
9. The release apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that said arms (12b) are provided with first mutually opposite holes (14), which are aligned
with second holes (15) provided along said flaps (5b), corresponding mutual fixing
elements (16), such as rivets, nails and the like, being inserted in said holes (14,
15).
10. The release apparatus according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said handle assembly (3) comprises at least one main plate (17) associated with means
for fixing to the rod (A), said fixing means comprising a tab (18) that is adjacent
to and integral with said plate (17) and is partially rolled up so as to define an
insertion seat (19) for the rod (A), said tab (18) being further coupled to said plate
(17) by means of at least one permanent connection element (20), of the type of a
rivet, nail, and the like.
11. The release apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that said tab (18) is provided with two lugs (21), which extend from the ends of the terminal
edge (18a) of said tab (18), which lies opposite said plate (17), each one of said
lugs (21) and a respective lateral ridge (17a) of said plate (17) being mutually fastened
by a corresponding said permanent connection element (20).
12. A method for providing locking buttons (4), for release apparatuses (1) according
to one or more of the preceding claims, which consists in:
a. providing a monolithic laminar element (5) made in one piece,
b. bending two mutually opposite end flaps (5b) of the metal type laminar element
(5) by cold deformation, keeping flat a central portion (5a) that is interposed between
the flaps (5b);
c. articulating the end flaps (5b) to a base (2) of the release apparatus (1).
13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that said bending step b. is obtained by cold deformation of said laminar element (5),
which is chosen of the type of a metal plate.
14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that it provides, in a step d. that follows said step b. and precedes said step c., for
rigidly coupling a structural reinforcement element (11) to the laminar element (5)
in order to increase the mechanical strength.
1. Eine Entsperrvorrichtung für Türen von Fahrzeugen, wie zum Beispiel Lieferwagen, Lastwagen,
Schwer-Nutzfahrzeuge, Sattelzüge, Anhänger und dergleichen; die eine Basis (2) umfasst,
welche fest an der Tür verankert werden kann, und einen Griffaufbau (3), der an mindestens
einer Stange (A) verankert werden kann, welche drehbar mit der Tür gekoppelt werden
kann und entsprechende Mittel zur Verankerung am Rahmen des Fahrzeugs trägt; wobei
der Griffaufbau (3) in der Lage ist, sich im Verhältnis zu der Basis (2) zwischen
mindestens einer Sperrkonfiguration, in der die Verankerungsmittel selbst indirekt
mit dem Fahrzeugrahmen in Eingriff stehen können, und mindestens einer Entsperrkonfiguration
zu drehen, in welcher die Verankerungsmittel in jedem Fall vom Fahrzeugrahmen gelöst
sind, um die Drehung der Tür zu ermöglichen; wobei ein Sperrknopf (4) drehbar mit
der Basis (2) gekoppelt und reversibel beweglich ist zwischen mindestens einer ersten
Winkelposition, in der er, selbst indirekt, angeordnet ist, um die Bewegung des Griffaufbaus
(3) zu behindern, und mindestens einer zweiten Winkelposition, in welcher er von dem
Griffaufbau (3) beabstandet ist, um die Bewegung des Griffaufbaus (3) zu ermöglichen,
wobei der Knopf (4) ein laminares Element (5) umfasst, das einteilig hergestellt ist
und einen im Wesentlichen flachen zentralen Teil (5a) hat, welcher zwischen entsprechenden
gegenüberliegenden Endflügeln (5b) angeordnet ist, welche gebogen und gelenkig mit
der Basis (2) verbunden sind; dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das laminare Element (5) im Wesentlichen aus einer Metallplatte besteht, die kaltumgeformt
wird, um die gebogenen Flügel (5b) zu bilden.
2. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der zentrale Teil (5a) mit einer geknickten Endlippe (6) versehen ist, die normalerweise,
in der ersten Winkelposition, aufliegend gegen eine Querstange gedrückt wird, welche
von dem Griffaufbau (3) gebildet wird, zum Eingreifen in der Bewegung mindestens aus
der Sperrkonfiguration in die Entsperrkonfiguration.
3. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß einem oder mehreren der obigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Flügel (5b) mit entsprechenden einander gegenüberliegenden Öffnungen (7) zum
Einführen eines entsprechenden transversalen Drehzapfens (8) ausgestattet sind, der
mit der Basis (2) gekoppelt ist, und zur daraus folgenden gelenkigen Verbindung des
Knopfs (4) mit der Basis (2).
4. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Lippe (6) von mindestens einer Feder (9), die um den transversalen Drehzapfen
(8) gewunden ist, elastisch aufliegend gegen die Querstange gedrückt wird.
5. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß einem oder mehreren der obigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das laminare Element (5) eine zusätzliche Plattform (5c) umfasst, die sich im Wesentlichen
koplanar von dem zentralen Teil (5a), auf der Seite, die dem Bereich der Verankerung
des Griffaufbaus (3) an der Stange (A) gegenüberliegt, erstreckt, zur erleichterten
Bewegung des Knopfs (4).
6. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß einem oder mehreren der obigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Außenfläche der Plattform (5c), die der Basis (2) gegenüberliegt, eine zumindest
partielle Rändelung (10) hat, zum vereinfachten Pressen durch den Benutzer zum Zwecke
des Übergangs aus der ersten Winkelposition in die zweite Winkelposition.
7. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß einem oder mehreren der obigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Knopf (4) ein strukturelles Verstärkungselement (11) umfasst, welches starr mit
dem laminaren Element (5) gekoppelt ist, um die mechanische Festigkeit zu erhöhen.
8. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Verstärkungselement (11) im Wesentlichen aus einem Arm besteht, der einen Querträger
(12a) und ein Paar zueinander paralleler Arme (12b) umfasst, wobei die Arme (12b)
einen Mittenabstand haben, der im Wesentlichen komplementär zum Mittenabstand der
Flügel (5b) ist, und fest zwischen den Flügeln (5b) eingesetzt sind, so dass der Querträger
(12a) sich auf der Seite befindet, die dem zentralen Teil (5a) gegenüberliegt.
9. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß Anspruch 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Arme (12b) mit ersten einander gegenüberliegenden Löchern (14) versehen sind,
die mit zweiten Löchern (15) fluchten, welche entlang den Flügeln (5b) angebracht
sind, wobei dazugehörige Mittel (16) zur gegenseitigen Befestigung, wie zum Beispiel
Niete, Nägel und dergleichen, in die Löcher (14, 15) eingesetzt sind.
10. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß einem oder mehreren der obigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Griffaufbau (3) mindestens eine Hauptplatte (17) umfasst, die mit Mitteln zur
Befestigung an der Stange (A) ausgestattet ist, wobei die Befestigungsmittel einen
Vorsprung (18) umfassen, der an die Platte (17) angrenzt und integral mit ihr und
teilweise eingerollt ist, um einen Aufnahmesitz (19) für die Stange (A) zu bilden;
wobei der Vorsprung (18) weiter über mindestens ein Dauerverbindungselement (20) von
der Art eines Niets, Nagels und dergleichen mit der Platte (17) gekoppelt ist.
11. Die Entsperrvorrichtung gemäß Anspruch 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Vorsprung (18) mit zwei Nasen (21) versehen ist, die sich von den Enden der Endkante
(18a) des Vorsprungs (18) erstrecken, die der Platte (17) gegenüberliegt, wobei jede
der Nasen (21) und ein entsprechender seitlicher Grat (17a) der Platte (17) durch
das entsprechende Dauerverbindungselement (20) aneinander befestigt sind.
12. Ein Verfahren zum Bereitstellen von Sperrknöpfen (4) für Entsperrvorrichtungen (1)
gemäß einem oder mehreren der obigen Ansprüche, das aus Folgendem besteht:
a.Bereitstellen eines monolithischen einteiligen laminaren Elements (5),
b.Biegen zweier einander gegenüberliegender Endflügel (5b) des laminaren Elements
(5) vom Metalltyp durch Kaltumformen, wobei ein zentraler Teil (5a), der sich zwischen
den Flügeln (5b) befindet, flach gehalten wird;
c.gelenkiges Verbinden der Endflügel (5b) mit einer Basis (2) der Entsperrvorrichtung
(1).
13. Das Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Biegeschritt b durch Kaltumformen des laminaren Elements (5) durchgeführt wird,
das vom Typ einer Metallplatte gewählt ist.
14. Das Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 12 oder 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass es in einem Schritt d., der auf den Schritt b. folgt und dem Schritt c. vorangeht,
das starre Koppeln einer strukturellen Verstärkungselements (11) mit dem laminaren
Element (5) zur Erhöhung der mechanischen Festigkeit vorsieht.
1. Appareil de libération pour portes de véhicules, tels que des camionnettes, des camions,
des véhicules lourds, des camions articulés, des remorques et similaires, comprenant
une base (2) qui peut être ancrée, de manière stable, à la porte, et un ensemble de
poignée (3) qui peut être ancré au moins à une tige (A) qui peut être couplée en rotation
à la porte et supporte des moyens respectifs pour s'ancrer au bâti du véhicule, ledit
ensemble de poignée (3) pouvant tourner par rapport à la base (2) entre au moins une
configuration de verrouillage, dans laquelle les moyens d'ancrage peuvent se mettre
même indirectement en prise avec le bâti du véhicule, et au moins une configuration
de libération, dans laquelle les moyens d'ancrage sont dans tous les cas dégagés du
bâti du véhicule, afin de permettre la rotation de la porte, un bouton de verrouillage
(4) étant couplé, en rotation à ladite base (2) et étant irréversiblement mobile entre
au moins une première position angulaire, dans laquelle il est agencé même indirectement
afin d'interférer avec le mouvement dudit ensemble de poignée (3), et au moins une
seconde position angulaire, dans laquelle il est espacé dudit ensemble de poignée
(3) afin de permettre le mouvement dudit ensemble de poignée (3), ledit bouton (4)
comprenant un élément laminaire (5), qui est prévu d'un seul tenant et a une partie
centrale sensiblement plate (5a), qui est intercalée entre des volets d'extrémité
(5b) opposés respectifs, qui sont pliés et sont articulés par rapport à ladite base
(2), caractérisé en ce que ledit élément laminaire (5) est sensiblement constitué par une plaque métallique
qui est déformée à froid pour fournir lesdits volets (5b) pliés.
2. Appareil de libération selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que ladite partie centrale (5a) est prévue avec une lèvre d'extrémité (6) pliée qui est
habituellement maintenue dans ladite première position angulaire, au repos forcé contre
une bande transversale qui est formée par ledit ensemble de poignée (3), pour l'interférence
dans le mouvement au moins de ladite configuration de verrouillage à ladite configuration
de libération.
3. Appareil de libération selon une ou plusieurs des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que lesdits volets (5b) sont prévus avec des orifices (7) mutuellement opposés respectifs
pour l'insertion d'un pivot transversal (8) respectif, qui est couplé à ladite base
(2), et pour l'articulation conséquente dudit bouton (4) par rapport à ladite base
(2).
4. Appareil de libération selon la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que ladite lèvre (6) est maintenue élastiquement au repos forcé contre ladite bande transversale
par au moins un ressort (9), qui est enroulé autour dudit pivot transversal (8).
5. Appareil de libération selon une ou plusieurs des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit élément laminaire (5) comprend une plateforme auxiliaire (5c) qui s'étend sensiblement
de manière coplanaire à partir de ladite partie centrale (5a), sur le côté opposé
par rapport à la région d'ancrage dudit ensemble de poignée (3) jusqu'à la tige (A),
pour le déplacement facilité dudit bouton (4).
6. Appareil de libération selon une ou plusieurs des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la surface externe de ladite plateforme (5c) qui est à l'opposé de ladite base (2)
a un moletage (10) au moins partiel, pour une action de pression facilitée de la part
de l'utilisateur, pour la transition de ladite première position angulaire à ladite
seconde position angulaire.
7. Appareil de libération selon une ou plusieurs des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit bouton (4) comprend un élément de renforcement structurel (11) qui est rigidement
couplé audit élément laminaire (5) afin d'augmenter la résistance mécanique.
8. Appareil de libération selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que ledit élément de renforcement (11) est constitué sensiblement par une console qui
comprend une traverse (12a) et une paire de bras (12b) mutuellement parallèles, lesdits
bras (12b) ayant une distance centrale qui est sensiblement complémentaire de la distance
centrale desdits volets (5b) et étant insérés de manière stable entre lesdits volets
(5b), de sorte que ladite traverse (12a) est agencée sur le côté opposé par rapport
à ladite partie centrale (5a).
9. Appareil de libération selon la revendication 8, caractérisé en ce que lesdits bras (12b) sont prévus avec des premiers trous (14) mutuellement opposés
qui sont alignés avec les seconds trous (15) prévus le long desdits volets (5b), des
éléments de fixation mutuels (16) correspondants tels que des rivets, des clous et
similaires étant insérés dans lesdits trous (14, 15).
10. Appareil de libération selon une ou plusieurs des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit ensemble de poignée (3) comprend au moins une plaque principale (17) associée
avec des moyens pour se fixer à la tige (A), lesdits moyens de fixation comprenant
une languette (18) qui est adjacente à et solidaire avec ladite plaque (17) et est
partiellement enroulée afin de définir un siège d'insertion (19) pour la tige (A),
ladite languette (18) étant en outre couplée à ladite plaque (17) au moyen d'au moins
un élément de raccordement permanent (20), du type d'un rivet, d'un clou et similaire.
11. Appareil de libération selon la revendication 10, caractérisé en ce que ladite languette (18) est prévue avec deux pattes (21) qui s'étendent à partir des
extrémités du bord terminal (18a) de ladite languette (18) qui est à l'opposé de ladite
plaque (17), chacune desdites pattes (21) et une crête latérale (17a) respective de
ladite plaque (17) étant mutuellement fixées par ledit élément de raccordement permanent
(20) correspondant.
12. Procédé pour fournir des boutons de verrouillage (4), pour des appareils de libération
(1) selon une ou plusieurs des revendications précédentes, qui consiste à :
a. prévoir un élément laminaire monolithique (5) réalisé d'un seul tenant,
b. plier deux volets d'extrémité (5b) mutuellement opposés de l'élément laminaire
(5) de type métallique par déformation à froid, maintenant à plat une partie centrale
(5a) qui est intercalée entre les volets (5b) ;
c. articuler les volets d'extrémité (5b) sur une base (2) de l'appareil de libération
(1).
13. Procédé selon la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce que ladite étape de pliage b. est obtenue par déformation à froid dudit élément laminaire
(5), qui est choisi du type d'une plaque métallique.
14. Procédé selon la revendication 12 ou 13, caractérisé en ce que l'on prévoit, à l'étape d. qui suit l'étape b. et précède ladite étape c., de coupler
rigidement un élément de renforcement structurel (11) à l'élément laminaire (5) afin
d'augmenter la résistance mécanique.