DE102008006964B4 - door system - Google Patents

Abstract

A door system includes a structural member and a door movably mounted with respect to the structural member to move between an open position and a closed position. A spring is mounted with respect to the structural element or door and is sufficiently positioned to bias the door toward its open position when the door is in its closed position. Active material based actuators may selectively compress the spring prior to closing the door to minimize the force required to close the door.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

This invention relates to a door system, and more particularly to a door system with springs for selectively pushing a door to its open or closed position.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A typical motor vehicle includes a vehicle body that defines a passenger compartment. Doors are selectively movable between open and closed positions to respectively allow access to the passenger compartment and to block access to the passenger compartment, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. A latch is typically used to hold a door in its closed position. To open a door, a user must pull on a door handle to release the latch and manually move the door to the open position.

Conventional door systems for selectively pushing a door into its open position or stopping it in the open position are known from the documents US 5,369,911 and US 2,810,153 A known. Systems for opening flaps or hoods of a vehicle, such. B. a trunk lid, are from the document US 2006/0 202 512 A1 known.

The invention has for its object to provide an advantageous and inexpensive to produce door system, which allows to bias the door to its open position.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An inventive door system comprises a structural member and a door movably mounted with respect to the structural member for movement between an open position and a closed position. A spring is mounted with respect to the structural member or door and is sufficiently positioned to bias the door toward its open position when the door is in its closed position. The door defines a door cavity and an opening. The door system further has an L-shaped angle with a first arm portion and a second arm portion, the angle being pivotally mounted with respect to the door and the structural member. The first arm portion extends through the opening into the door cavity. The spring surrounds the first arm portion outside the door cavity.

The above features as well as other features and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

1 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a door having an active material based actuator adapted to transfer force from an active material to the door;

2 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of another door system with another active material based actuator configured to transfer force from an active material to the door;

3 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of another door with another active material based actuator configured to transfer force from an active material to the door;

4 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a door having a containment link and a spring surrounding the containment connection and biasing the door to its open position;

5 is a schematic side view of the Aufhaltverbindung 4 ;

6 Figure 4 is a schematic side view of an alternative containment connection for use with the door 4 ;

7 Fig. 12 is a schematic plan view of a containment connection assembly with a door in a first position;

8th is a schematic plan view of the containment connection arrangement 7 with the door in a second position;

9 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of a door with a spring design that biases the door toward its open position;

10 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of a door with another spring design biasing the door toward its open position, and with an active material based actuator configured to selectively compress the spring;

11 is a schematic cross-sectional top view of another door with an alternative A spring assembly for biasing the door and having an active material based actuator configured to selectively compress the spring;

12 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of still another door having another alternative spring design for biasing the door and having an active material based actuator configured to selectively compress the spring;

13 is a schematic cross-sectional plan view of yet another door with yet another spring design;

14 is a schematic cross-sectional top view of the door 13 in a partially open position;

15 is a schematic cross-sectional top view of the door 13 and 14 with a notching device;

16 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a door in an open position having yet another spring design and another active material based actuator configured to compress the spring;

17 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the door 16 in a closed position;

18 Figure 3 is a schematic side view of a latch system configured to selectively push a tailgate toward its open position and having an active material based return system;

19 Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of another latching system configured to selectively push a tailgate toward its open position and having an active material based reset system;

20A - 20D FIG. 12 are schematic side views of an alternative active material based return mechanism for use with the locking system. FIG 19 ;

21 Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a latch system with another alternative active material based return mechanism; and

22 Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a door latch including an active material based member to urge a door toward its open position.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In 1 to which reference is now made, includes a vehicle body 10 , a hinge pillar 14 as understood by one skilled in the art. A vehicle door 18 is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position. More particularly, at least one hinge (not shown) connects the hinge pillar 14 and the door 18 so the door 18 in relation to the hinge pillar 14 is selectively rotatable between the open position and the closed position. The door 18 includes an inner panel, one of which is a section below 22 is shown. A door operator 24 includes a containment connection arrangement 26 , sometimes called "door stop" or "open holder". The stay connection arrangement 26 includes a containment compound 30 , The stopping connection 30 is about one on the hinge pillar 14 attached angle 34 in relation to the hinge pillar 14 swivel mounted. More specifically, the containment compound 30 at the angle 34 rotatable about an axis substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the door 18 runs around the hinge. The term "hinge pillar" as used herein may include a front hinge pillar, a B pillar, etc.

The stopping connection 30 extends through a in the inner panel 22 trained opening 38 through the door cavity 42 into it, which through the inner panel 22 and an outer panel (not shown) is defined, as understood by those skilled in the art. The stopping connection 26 also includes a housing 46 That inside the door cavity 42 arranged and on the inner panel 22 is appropriate. The housing 46 contains springs (not shown). The stopping connection 30 extends through the housing 46 through and is selectively movable therethrough. The stopping connection 30 defines ramps, pits, etc. (in 1 not shown), which interact with the springs to resist the movement of the door 18 during its pivoting between the open position and the closed position to vary, as understood by those skilled in the art.

An attack 50 is at one end of the hold connection 30 attached to excessive movement of the stopping connection 30 in relation to the housing 46 to limit. More specifically, the stop is 50 larger than the opening in the housing 46 through which the hold-up compound passes 30 extends, and therefore prevents movement of the Aufhaltverbindung 30 through the housing 46 by going physically with the casing 46 interacts. The stay connection arrangement 26 also includes an L-shaped element 54 that is adjacent to the stop 50 at the stop connection 30 is appropriate. The door operating element 24 also includes an active material based element, which in the illustrated embodiment is a wire 58 made of shape memory alloy (SMA), hereafter referred to as SMA wire. The SMA wire 58 stands over the element 54 with the stop connection 30 in active connection. The SMA wire is also connected to the housing 46 in active connection.

A shape memory alloy is characterized by a cold state given when the temperature of the alloy is below its martensitic transformation end temperature M _f . A shape memory alloy is also characterized by a hot state given when the temperature of the alloy is above its austenite transformation end temperature A _f . An article formed by the alloy may be characterized by a predetermined shape. If the article is pseudoplastic deformed in the cold state, the elongation can be reversed by heating the article to a temperature above the austenite end temperature A _f ; that is, heating the article to more than its A _f causes the article to return to its predetermined shape. Also, the modulus of elasticity and yield strength of an SMA alloy are considerably lower when hot than when hot. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, pseudoplastic elongation is similar to plastic strain in that elongation persists even after removal of the strain which has caused the strain. However, in contrast to plastic deformation, the pseudoplastic deformation is reversible when the article is heated to its hot state.

The SMA wire 58 is characterized by a predetermined length. If the door 18 is moved to its closed position and the SMA wire 58 is in its cold state, the housing moves 46 closer to the hinge pillar 14 and causes a voltage on the SMA wire 58 , The tension causes the SMA wire to deform pseudoplastic and assume a length greater than its predetermined length, ie, a stretched condition. By causing the SMA wire 58 enters its hot state, takes the SMA wire 58 returns to its predetermined state and thereby exerts forces on the housing 46 and the stopping connection 30 out. Thus, the wire changes 58 Attributes or features, namely shape and modulus, in response to a thermal activation signal.

More specifically, when the SMA wire pushes 58 returns from its stretched state to its predetermined length, the wire 58 the stopping connection 30 against the hinge pillar 14 and pushes the case 46 to the stop 50 out, causing the door 18 from its closed position to its open position.

In 2 to which reference is now made and in which like reference numbers refer to like components 1 is the vehicle door assembly 118 about a hinge 62 rotatable with respect to the hinge pillar 114 appropriate. A door opening actuator 120 includes a shape memory alloy wire 158 a pulley 160 , a pinion 162 and a dental arch 164 , The dental arch 164 is in relation to the hinge pillar 114 rigidly attached. The pulley 160 is rigid with the pinion 162 mounted and pulley and pinion are in relation to the door assembly 118 rotatably arranged to rotate together about a common axis. The pinion 162 stands with the dental arch 164 interlocking engaged. The SMA wire 158 is at one end with respect to the inner panel 122 the door arrangement 118 rigidly arranged, a segment of the SMA wire 158 traverses the door cavity 142 and another segment of the SMA wire 158 is around the pulley 160 wound around.

The SMA wire 158 is characterized by a predetermined length, and the door opening actuator 120 is designed so that the wire 158 has the predetermined length when the door assembly 118 at least partially open, as in 2 shown. While the door arrangement 118 is moved to its closed position, causes the movement of the pinion 162 relative to the dental arch 164 a rotation of the pinion 162 in a first direction and, accordingly, a rotation of the pulley 160 in the first direction. The rotation of the pulley 160 while the door assembly is being closed, it causes a tensile load on the SMA wire 158 and the SMA wire 158 is thereby pseudoplastic deformed to a length which is longer than the predetermined length. When the door assembly 118 is in its closed position, so is the SMA wire 158 longer than the predetermined length.

Heating the SMA wire 158 on his hot condition when the door assembly 118 Being in its closed position causes the SMA wire 158 again assumes its predetermined length and increases its modulus, which in turn causes the SMA wire 158 a force on the pulley 160 which exerts the pulley 160 and accordingly the pinion 162 to turn in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The pinion 162 exerts a force on the teeth of the dental arch during its rotation in the second direction 164 from which a corresponding counterforce on the teeth of the pinion 162 exercises. The counterforce on the teeth of the pinion 162 leads to a moment related to the axis of rotation of the door assembly 118 on the hinge 62 The door arrangement 118 pushes to their open position.

Active material based actuators can also be used to close doors. For example, if the SMA wire 158 in terms of in terms of 2 direction shown opposite direction around the pulley 160 is wound around, then causes a movement of the door assembly 118 towards its open position, a tensile load on the SMA wire 158 and the SMA wire 158 is pseudoplastic stretched to a length that is longer than its predetermined length. In such an embodiment, therefore, the SMA wire would be 158 longer than its predetermined length when the door assembly 118 is in its open position. Accordingly, heating of the SMA wire would 158 on its hot condition to a closing of the door assembly 118 to lead.

It should be noted that other actuators can be used. For example, an electric motor with the pinion 162 be brought into operative connection to the pinion 162 to turn selectively; a rotation of the pinion 162 By the electric motor in one direction would cause the door assembly 118 moves into its open position, and a rotation of the pinion 162 by the electric motor in the other direction would cause the door assembly 118 moves to its closed position.

In 3 to which reference is now made, the vehicle door assembly 218 about a hinge 62 rotatable with respect to the hinge pillar 214 appropriate. A door opening actuator 220 includes a quarter-pulley 224 a pulley 226 and an SMA wire 258 ,

The quarter-pulley 224 is in relation to the hinge pillar 214 rigidly attached. The quarter-pulley 224 extends from the hinge pillar 214 through one in the inner panel 222 the door arrangement 218 trained opening 230 in the door cavity 242 into it. The quarter-pulley 224 is curved and forms a quarter circle in the illustrated embodiment. The quarter-pulley 224 defines a groove 262 which is open in the inward direction, ie toward the vehicle body.

The pulley 226 is rotatable with respect to the door assembly 218 attached to rotate about a vertical axis. The SMA wire 258 is in relation to the inner panel 222 the door arrangement 218 attached, extends over the door cavity 242 away, kicking with the pulley 226 engaged, enters with the quarter-pulley 224 in the groove 262 along a portion of the length of the quarter pulley engages and is within the door cavity 242 at the end 266 the quarter-pulley 224 appropriate.

The SMA wire 258 is characterized by a predetermined length, and the door opening actuator 220 is designed so that the wire 258 has the predetermined length when the door assembly 218 at least partially open, as in 3 shown. While the door arrangement 218 is moved to its closed position, causes the movement of the door assembly 218 relative to the quarter-pulley 224 a tensile load on the SMA wire 258 , and the SMA wire 258 is pseudoplastic deformed to a length that is longer than the predetermined length. More specifically, while the door assembly 218 moves to its closed position, the movement of the door assembly 218 relative to the quarter-pulley 224 that the quarter-pulley 224 extending further into the door cavity, causing the SMA wire 258 pseudoplastic deformed. When the door assembly 218 is in its closed position, so is the SMA wire 258 longer than its predetermined length.

Heating the SMA wire 258 on his hot condition when the door assembly 218 Being in its closed position causes the SMA wire 258 again assumes its predetermined length and increases its modulus, which in turn causes the SMA wire 258 Force on the quarter-pulley 224 and on the inner panel 222 exerts, causing the door assembly 218 pressed to its open position.

The heating of an SMA wire is preferably done by electrical resistance heating, ie by passing current through the SMA wire to make it in response to a door opening signal, e.g. B. a radio transmission from a key fob to heat to its hot state. In an exemplary embodiment, a radio receiver (not shown) is configured to transmit a signal to a controller (not shown) when the radio receiver receives signal transmission from a key fob. The controller is configured to cause electrical resistance heating of the SMA wire in response to the signal for a predetermined period of time or until a predetermined change in length (change in length) occurs, and to cause an electrically actuated latch (not shown), which is connected to the door, a striker (not shown) dissolves, which is connected to the vehicle body. Sensors (not shown) such as proximity sensors may be configured to monitor the proximity of objects to the door and communicate the proximity of objects to the door to the controller so that the controller may alter the amount of door opening to make contact between the door and the object to avoid. Sensors may also be configured to monitor the opening angle of the door and the state of the door opening actuator and to communicate the opening angle of the door and the state of the door opening actuator to the controller. For example, the controller may be programmed to, in the event that the door should close by itself, e.g. B. when the vehicle body is in an inclined state, the wire reheated. It may also be desirable to add locking positions of a door stop to adjust the door opening actuators or to provide a friction-locked detent. Pre-set / programmable stops (door opening angle) can be used. Sensors can also be used to monitor the speed and proximity of objects that can hit the door.

In the class of in 1 - 3 In embodiments shown, preferably after the door has been opened, the SMA wire quickly cools back to its cold state so that the SMA wire has a low resistance to expansion (ie, the lower modulus of its cold state) during the closing of the door to minimize the effort required to close the door.

In 4 to which reference is now made, includes a vehicle body 310 a hinge pillar 314 as understood by one skilled in the art. A vehicle door 318 is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position. More particularly, at least one hinge (not shown) connects the hinge pillar 314 and the door 318 so that the door is in relation to the hinge pillar 314 is selectively rotatable between the open position and the closed position. The door 318 includes an inner panel, one of which is a section below 322 is shown. A stop connection 326 , sometimes called "door stop" or "open holder", includes a rod 330 , The staff 330 is about one on the hinge pillar 314 attached angle 334 in relation to the hinge pillar 314 swivel mounted. More specifically, the wand 330 at the angle 334 rotatable about an axis substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the door 318 runs around the hinge. The term "hinge pillar" as used herein may include a front hinge pillar, a B pillar, etc.

The rod 330 extends through a in the inner panel 322 trained opening 338 through the door cavity 342 into it, which through the inner panel 322 and an outer panel (not shown) is defined, as understood by those skilled in the art. The stopping connection 326 also includes a housing 346 That inside the door cavity 342 arranged and on the inner panel 322 is appropriate. The housing 346 contains two springs 350 , The rod 330 extends through the housing 346 through and through it selectively between the springs 350 movable. The rod 330 defines ramps, pits, etc. (in 4 not shown) with the springs 350 interact to resist the movement of the door 318 during its pivoting between the open position and the closed position to vary, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

An attack 354 is at one end of the staff 330 attached to excessive movement of the rod 330 in relation to the housing 346 to limit. More specifically, the stop is 354 larger than the opening in the housing 346 through which the rod passes 330 extends, and therefore prevents movement of the rod 330 through the housing 346 passing it physically by the housing 346 interacts.

In 4 and 5 to which reference is now made, the staff defines 330 at one end 362 a hole 358 through which a pin (not shown) is insertable around the end 362 swiveling at the bottom 334 in 4 attached angle to install. The surfaces 366A . 366B on opposite sides of the bar 330 Define a profile that affects the amount of effort required to open the door 318 between their open and their closed position to pivot. If the door 318 in the closed position, is the segment 370 of the staff 330 inside the case 346 between the springs 350 , The segments 374A . 374B the surfaces 366A . 366B each act on a corresponding spring 350 ,

While the door 318 is moved to the open position, moves the rod 330 relative to the housing 346 so that the segment 378 of the staff 330 inside the case 346 between the springs 350 located and the segments 382A . 382B the surfaces 366A . 366B each on a corresponding spring 350 Act. The segment 378 is thicker than the segment 370 ie the surface segments 382A . 382B are more widely spaced than the surface segments 374A . 374B , Accordingly, the rod causes 330 that the springs 350 Compress while the door 318 is moved from its closed position.

While the door 318 is moved further to the open position, moves the rod 330 relative to the housing, leaving the segment 386 inside the case 346 between the springs 350 located. The segments 390A . 390B the surfaces 366A . 366B each act on a corresponding spring 350 , The segment 386 is thinner than the segment 378 which is on one side of the segment 386 is located, and also thinner than the segment 394 , which is on the other side of the segment 386 is located, and thus the segment acts 386 as a lock; that means moving the door 318 in both directions when the case 346 with the segment 386 engages, compressing the springs 350 and thus requires an increased effort. The segment 398 on the segment 386 opposite side of the segment 394 is thinner than the segment 394 and represents that segment which is inside the housing 346 between the springs 350 comes to rest when the door is in the fully open position.

A feather 400 is between the door arrangement 318 and the hinge pillar 314 concentric around the rod 330 arranged around, and when the door assembly 318 is in its closed position, becomes the spring 400 from the door arrangement 318 and the hinge pillar 314 compressed. Thus, the spring pushes 400 the door arrangement 318 to their open position. When a door latch (not shown) is released, the spring forces the door 318 to their open position.

6 , in which the same reference numbers are based on the same components 4 and 5 schematically forms an alternative rod 330A off, instead of the staff 330 can be used. In 4 and 6 to which reference is now made, comprises the rod 330A at one end a stop 354 and defines it at the opposite end 362 a hole 358 , A pin is through the hole 358 insertable to the end 362 of the arm 330A swiveling with the under 334 connect the angles shown. The surfaces 404A . 404B on opposite sides of the bar 330A define a profile that affects the amount of effort required to hold the door assembly 318 between their open and their closed position to pivot. When the door assembly 318 in the closed position, is the segment 408 of the staff 330A inside the case 346 between the springs 350 , and the segments 412A . 412B the surfaces 404A . 404B each act on a corresponding spring 350 , The segment 408 of the staff 330A is of sufficient thickness so that the segments 412A . 412B on the springs like that 350 act on the springs 350 be compressed.

While the door arrangement 318 moving from its closed position to the open position, the staff moves 330A in relation to the housing 346 so that the segment 416 of the staff 330A in the case 346 is located, with the segments 420A . 420B the surfaces 404A . 404B each on the appropriate spring 350 Act. The segment 416 is a ramp segment, ie the segment 416 is in the of the segment 408 away leading direction increasingly thinner. The segments 420A . 420B do not run parallel; the distance between them increases with distance from the bar segment 408 from. Accordingly, the springs 350 while the door arrangement 318 moved from the closed position to the open position, less compressed, to the extent that the housing 346 the segment 416 crossed. The feathers 350 therefore act in the movement of the door assembly 318 assisting from the closed position to the open position by pointing to the surfaces 420A . 420B of the ramp segment 416 Act. The segment 424 of the staff 330A at the segment 408 opposite side of the ramp segment 416 is through parallel segments 428A . 428B the surfaces 404A . 404B characterized.

The segment 432 at the segment 416 opposite side of the segment 424 is thicker than the segment 424 , Accordingly, while the door assembly 318 moves closer to the open position, leaving the housing 346 away from the segment 424 to the segment 432 moved, the springs 350 a resistance, as they are from the surfaces 404A . 404B be compressed. The segment 436 provides a middle lock position and the segment 440 comes inside the housing between the springs 350 to lie when the door is in the fully open position.

In 7 and 8th to which reference is now made, is a containment connection arrangement 450 shown schematically. The stay connection arrangement 450 includes a first angle 454 attached to a vehicle door assembly, such as the under 318 in 4 shown door assembly is attached. The stay connection arrangement 450 also includes an angle 458 attached to a vehicle body hinge pillar, such as the lower 314 in 4 shown hinge pillar is attached. The first angle 454 is on a hinge 462 pivotable with the second angle 458 connected; that means the first angle 454 in relation to the second angle 458 selectively around the hinge 462 is pivotable around.

The stop arrangement 450 also includes a containment compound 466 hanging on a hinge 470 pivotable at a first angle 454 connected is; that means the stopping compound 466 in terms of the first angle 454 selectively around the hinge 470 is pivotable around. A role 474 is through a pen 478 rotatable with respect to the second angle 458 appropriate.

The stopping connection 466 includes a surface 482 that has an edge of the stall connection 466 Are defined. A feather 486 connects the stopping connection 466 and the first angle 454 with each other and tenses the Aufhaltverbindung 466 before, so the area 482 in constant contact with the role 474 located. As the door assembly moves between its closed position and its fully open position, the hold connection moves 466 in terms of role 474 so the role 474 the area 482 crossed. The area 482 is characterized by elevations and depressions on which the roll 474 meets as the door assembly moves between the open position and the closed position. More specifically, the surface defines a first depression 490 , a second recess 494 and a third well 498 , A first raise 502 separates the first well 490 and the second well 494 , A second increase 506 separates the second well 494 and the third well 498 , A third raise 510 separates the third well 498 from the segment 514 the area 482 which is flat in the illustrated embodiment.

When the door assembly is in the closed position as in FIG 8th shown is the role 474 at the first recess 490 with the area 482 in contact. When the door assembly is pivoted, this causes the first angle 454 around the hinge 462 rotates, which causes the Aufhaltverbindung 466 relative to the role 474 moved, so the role 474 the raises 502 . 506 and 510 and the depressions 490 . 494 and 498 crossed. While the role 474 one of the raises 502 . 506 . 510 crosses, the stopping connection 466 against the spring 486 forced, causing the spring 486 is compressed and the rotational movement of the door assembly presents a resistance, as understood by those skilled in the art.

The increase 502 is compared to the increases 506 . 510 relatively small and more specific is the emergence of the increase 502 from the depression 490 less than the emergence of the other ridges relative to their adjacent pits. Thus, when moving the door assembly from a fully closed position in which the roller 474 with the recess 490 is in contact, in a partially open position, in which the role 474 with the recess 494 in contact, from the spring 486 provided a relatively low resistance. In a preferred embodiment, that of the increase 502 resistance to rotation of the door is less than the forces acting on the door by compressed weather strips and door seals (not shown) and by the door latch (not shown), and therefore the door assembly is capable of being unlocked without the user applying any force to move a first open position, so that, as in 7 shown the role 474 with the recess 494 comes into contact. The depression 498 acts as a door position lock in middle position, and the roller 474 occurs with the segment 514 the area 482 in contact when the door assembly is in the fully open position. The stopping connection 466 may be characterized by other elevations and depressions within the scope of the claimed invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the increase protrudes 502 further from the depression 494 as of the depression 490 before, and thus requires the movement of the door assembly from its partially open to its closed position more effort than moving the door assembly from its closed position to its partially open position.

Will the stall connection arrangement 450 in conjunction with a door opening device such as one of those disclosed in U.S. Pat 6 - 8th used, so compressed by an SMA wire spring can move the door from its closed position, so that the role with the recess 494 in contact; the increase 502 prevents the door from moving back to its closed position.

In 9 to which reference is now made, is a door assembly 618 about a hinge 62 rotatable with a hinge pillar 614 a vehicle body 616 connected. An L-shaped element 620 is also about the hinge 62 rotatable and at least partially between the hinge pillar 614 and the door arrangement 618 arranged. When the door assembly 618 yourself, as in 9 shown, in its closed position, stands an arm 624 of the element 620 with the hinge pillar 614 in contact. The other arm 628 of the L-shaped element 620 extends through one in the door assembly 618 trained opening 632 through the door cavity 642 into it. A feather 636 is between the door arrangement 618 and an arm 624 concentric around the arm 628 arranged around, and the spring 636 will if the door assembly 618 is in its closed position, through the door assembly 618 and the arm 624 of the L-shaped element 620 compressed. Thus, the spring pushes 636 the door arrangement 618 to their open position. When the door lock 640 is solved, the spring forces the door 618 to their open position. The arm 628 is in relation to the door assembly 618 through the opening 632 moving around to follow the movement of the door 618 to adjust during opening. If a user closes the door, the spring is compressed again. The end 644 of the arm 628 is extended to prevent it from opening up 632 moved through.

In 10 to which reference is now made and in which like reference numbers refer to like components 9 refer, is the door assembly 718 over the hinge 62 rotatable with respect to the hinge pillar 714 the vehicle body 616 appropriate. The L-shaped element 620 is also about the hinge 62 rotatable and at least partially between the hinge pillar 714 and the door arrangement 718 arranged. When the door assembly 718 yourself, as in 10 shown, in its closed position, stands an arm 624 of the element 620 with the hinge pillar 714 in contact. The other arm 628 of the L-shaped element 620 extends through one in the door assembly 718 trained opening 732 through the door cavity 642 into it. A feather 636 is concentric around the arm 628 arranged around, and the spring 636 will if the door assembly 718 is in its closed position, through the door assembly 718 and the arm 624 of the L-shaped element 620 compressed. Thus, the spring pushes 636 the door arrangement 718 to their open position. When the door lock 640 is solved, the spring forces 636 the door arrangement 718 to their open position. The arm 628 is in relation to the door assembly 718 through the opening 732 moving around to follow the movement of the door 718 to adjust during opening.

An SMA wire 740 is at one end on the arm 628 attached and is at the other end to the inner panel 744 the door arrangement 718 appropriate. The wire 740 is characterized by a predetermined length, which is the wire 740 in its hot state after it has been pseudoplastic deformed. The predetermined length is such that the wire 740 the arm 628 in the door cavity 742 pulls in, causing the spring 636 between the arm 624 and the door arrangement 718 is compressed. If the wire 740 is in its cold state, its modulus of elasticity or its resistance to deformation is sufficiently low that the spring 636 standing against the door assembly 718 and the arm 624 acts, to a tensile load in the wire 740 leads and thereby the length of the wire 740 increased in relation to its predetermined length.

During operation of the door assembly 718 becomes the wire 740 heated to its hot state to the spring 636 to compress, which saves energy. A lock 748 is with a full or partial hole 752 in the arm 628 engageable to the spring 636 after the wire 740 has cooled down to its cold state, keeping it in its compressed state. Accordingly, the wire represents 740 the energy ready for the spring 636 to compress, and the spring 636 thus does not affect the effort required to the door assembly 718 close. Should the door arrangement 718 to be opened, the lock becomes 748 from the full or partial hole 752 solved and the stored energy from the spring 636 Released to the door assembly 718 to push to their open position.

In 11 to which reference is now made, is the door assembly 818 over the hinge 62 rotatable on the hinge pillar 814 appropriate. The inner sheet 822 the door arrangement 818 defines an opening 824 , A feather 828 is in the door cavity 832 arranged and the door structure defines a cylindrical spring guide 836 inside the cavity 832 , More specifically, the leadership defines 836 a generally cylindrical cavity 840 who is the spring 828 at least partially contains. The cavity 840 is at one end with the opening 824 aligned so that the spring 828 , as in 11 shown selectively through the opening 824 through from the cavity 840 is expandable out. The spring stands with a wall 844 in contact, that of the opening 824 opposite end of the cavity 840 Are defined.

An SMA wire 848 is in the door cavity 832 arranged. An end of the wire 848 is on the inner panel 822 attached and the other end of the wire 848 is at the spring 828 appropriate. More specifically, the wire extends 848 from the door cavity 832 through an opening 852 in the wall 844 in the cylindrical cavity 840 into it. The segment of the wire 848 in the cylindrical cavity 840 extends along the centerline of the spring 828 and the wire 848 is at the distal end of the spring 828 ie at the end of the spring 828 the furthest from the wall 844 away and closest to the vehicle body floor 856 or the tipping plate is located. A guide pulley 860 leads the wire 848 inside the door cavity 832 ,

The wire 848 is characterized by a predetermined length which the wire assumes in its hot state again after being pseudoplastic deformed. The predetermined length is such that the wire is the spring 828 compressed so far that the spring is entirely inside the cavity 840 is located and no part of the spring from the opening 824 protrudes. If the wire 848 is in its cold state, its modulus is sufficiently low that the spring 828 , against the wall 844 acts out of the inner panel 822 trained opening 824 out and thereby in pseudoplastic manner, the length of the wire 848 increased in relation to its predetermined length.

During operation of the door assembly 818 becomes the wire 848 heated to its hot state to the spring 828 to compress, which is stored in the spring energy. A latch (not shown) is used to spring 828 to keep in their compressed state after the wire 848 has cooled down to its cold state. Should the door arrangement 818 are opened, the lock is released and the stored energy from the spring 824 released while the spring 828 through the opening 824 extends through and opposing forces on the wall 844 and the body floor 856 exerts to the door assembly 844 to push to their open position.

In 12 to which reference is now made, is the door assembly 918 over the hinge 62 rotatable with respect to the hinge pillar 914 appropriate. The door opening actuator 916 includes a quarter-pulley element 928 , a feather 920 and an SMA wire 922 , The quarter-pulley element 928 includes a quarter-pulley section 926 and a fixing portion 930 , The attachment section 930 is in relation to the door assembly 918 , the hinge pillar 914 and the hinge 62 rotatably mounted, so that the quarter-pulley element 928 around the axis of rotation of the door assembly 918 is selectively rotatable around. The quarter-pulley section 926 is generally horizontally oriented, curved, and in the illustrated embodiment forms a quarter of a circle whose center is in the axis of rotation of the door. The pulley section 926 defines a groove 934 which is open in the inward direction, ie toward the vehicle body. The pulley section 926 extends from the attachment portion outside the door cavity 938 through the in the inner panel 942 trained opening 939 in the door cavity 938 into it.

The feather 920 is between the attachment section 930 and an outer wall 940 of the inner panel 942 the door arrangement 918 concentric around the pulley section 926 arranged around. The SMA wire 922 is at one end with respect to the inner panel 942 attached, traverses the door cavity 938 and extends through the opening 939 out of the door cavity 938 out. Outside the door cavity 938 extends the SMA wire 922 along the pulley section 926 in the groove 934 and is adjacent to the attachment portion 930 on the pulley element 928 appropriate.

The SMA wire 922 is characterized by a predetermined length. If the wire 922 is in its cold state, its modulus of elasticity and its resistance to deformation are sufficiently low that the spring on the wall 940 the door arrangement 918 and the attachment section 926 acts, the door arrangement 918 from the attachment section 926 pushes away and thereby the wire 922 with respect to its predetermined length stretches. If the wire 922 heated to its hot state, the wire picks up 922 again its predetermined length and its modulus increases, whereby the pulley element 928 and the door arrangement 918 be pulled to each other and the spring 920 is compressed.

Thus, if the door assembly 918 at least partially open, the wire 922 heated to its hot state, causing the spring 920 is compressed. The pulley element 928 turns independently of the hinge pillar 914 to the door arrangement 918 down and therefore has the compression of the spring 920 no influence on the door opening angle. The door arrangement 918 can then be manually pivoted to its closed position, wherein the pulley element 928 with the hinge pillar 914 comes into contact. When the door assembly is opened (eg, when a controller drives an electrical latch (not shown) to release it), the wire 922 is in its cold state, the compressed spring presses the door assembly 918 to their open position and stretch the wire 922 with respect to its predetermined length.

In 13 and 14 to which reference is now made, is the door assembly 1000 over the hinge 1008 rotatable with respect to a vehicle body hinge pillar 1004 appropriate. The door opening actuator 1012 includes a pulley element 1016 , a feather 1020 , and a wire 1024 made of shape memory alloy (SMA wire). The pulley element 1016 is a generally L-shaped angle and includes a pulley portion 1028 and a fixing portion 1032 , The attachment section 1032 is on the hinge 1008 in relation to the door arrangement 1000 and the hinge pillar 1004 rotatably mounted so that the pulley element 1016 around the axis of rotation of the door assembly 1000 around selectively between an in

13 shown first position and one in 14 shown second position is rotatable. The pulley section 1028 is generally horizontally oriented and curved. The pulley section 1028 defines a groove (not shown) that is open in the inward direction, ie toward the vehicle body. The pulley section 1028 extends from the attachment section 1032 outside the door cavity 1036 through one in the inner panel 1040 the door arrangement 1000 trained opening in the door cavity 1036 into it.

The feather 1020 is between the attachment section 1032 and an outer wall 1044 of the inner panel 1040 concentric around the pulley section 1028 arranged around. The SMA wire 1024 is at one end with respect to the inner panel 1040 attached, traverses the door cavity 1036 and extends through the in the inner panel 1040 formed opening from the door cavity 1036 out. Outside the door cavity 1036 extends the SMA wire 1024 along the pulley section 1028 in the groove and is adjacent to the attachment section 1032 on the pulley element 1016 appropriate. Alternatively, a non-SMA cable or wire may be used in the groove and at one end to the SMA wire 1024 and at the other end to the pulley element 1016 be attached.

The SMA wire 1024 is characterized by a predetermined length. If the wire 1024 is in its cold state, its elastic modulus and its resistance to deformation are sufficiently low that the spring 1020 on the wall 1044 and the attachment section 1032 acts, the door arrangement 1000 from the attachment section 1032 pushes away and thereby the wire 1024 with respect to its predetermined length stretches. If the wire 1024 heated to its hot state, the wire picks up 1024 again its predetermined length and its modulus increases, whereby the pulley element 1016 to the door arrangement 1000 pulled out, so that the pulley element 1016 is in its first position and the spring 1020 through the wall 1044 and the attachment section 1032 is compressed.

The pulley element 1016 includes at the end of the pulley section 1028 inside the door cavity 1036 also a hook 1048 , A pawl 1050 is in relation to the inner panel 1040 on the hinge 1054 attached so that the pawl selectively around the pivot 1054 is rotatable around. The pawl 1050 is inside the door cavity 1036 arranged and includes a hook 1058 , The hook 1058 is how in 13 shown with the hook 1048 the pulley element 1016 engageable to the pulley element 1016 to hold in his first position. A feather 1062 pushes the pawl 1050 under tension in engagement with the hook 1048 , The pawl 1050 is selective about the hinge 1054 rotatable around, leaving the hook 1058 out of engagement with the hook 1048 which causes the pulley element 1016 is released from its first position, so that the spring 1020 the pulley element 1016 in its second position with respect to the door assembly 1000 can move.

Thus, if the door assembly 1000 at least partially open, the wire 1024 heated to its hot state, causing the spring 1020 is compressed and the pulley element 1016 in his first position in relation to the door arrangement 1000 is moved. The pulley element 1016 turns independently of the hinge pillar 1004 to the door arrangement 1000 down and therefore has the compression of the spring 1020 no influence on the door opening angle. While the pulley element 1016 moving to the first position causes the spring 1062 that the hook 1058 the pawl 1050 with the hook 1048 of the element 1016 engages. Thus, when the spring cools to its cold state, the inter-engaging hooks prevent it 1048 . 1058 that the spring 1020 expands and releases its stored energy.

The door arrangement 1000 can then be manually pivoted to its closed position. A notching element 1066 stands with the pawl 1050 in operative connection to cause the pawl 1050 it turns, so the hook 1058 with the hook 1048 disengages and the spring 1020 the pulley element 1016 in contact with the hinge pillar 1004 suppressed; the slight movement with which the pulley element 1016 with the hinge pillar 1004 is sufficient to hook the two 1048 . 1058 to prevent them from engaging with each other. Will the door arrangement 1000 unlocked, so presses the spring 1020 the door arrangement 1000 from the pulley element 1016 and the hinge pillar 1004 away and to the open position.

The release element 1066 , z. As a lever or a cable, can be operated in different ways within the scope of the claimed invention, ie, be moved to the movement of the pawl 1050 to induce. In 15 to which reference is now made and in which like reference numbers refer to like components 13 and 14 refer, the element becomes 1066 by an actuator 1070 actuated. The actuator 1070 is intended in an exemplary embodiment, the element 1066 , which may be, for example, a motor, an SMA wire, a solenoid, etc. to operate. In a second embodiment, the actuating element 1070 a door lock release mechanism, which is the same with a door lock, which the door assembly 1000 in the closed position, and with the release element 1066 is in active compound; the door lock release mechanism can be so designed be that he is the element 1066 either simultaneously with, or slightly before the door lock is caused, the door assembly 1000 release, pressed. Alternatively, the door lock release mechanism can only use part of its way to the element 1066 to press after the door 1000 is completely closed, and he uses a complete way to solve the door lock if necessary. The door latch notch can even solve more than two latches simultaneously or discretely using different path lengths. In a third embodiment, a movement associated with the complete closing of the door is used to move the element 1066 to press. For example, the movement of the rotary latch (not shown) in the door latch from the secondary to the primary position or the movement of the door from the half-open to the fully-closed position may cause movement of the element 1066 cause. It may be desirable to use a cinch lock to ensure a certain travel, thereby ensuring that the door can be completely closed and the spring energy released. In a fourth embodiment, an on / off function is used, wherein a first actuation of the SMA wire 1024 a movement of the pulley element 1016 in the first direction, and a second actuation of the SMA wire causes the pawl 1050 moved so that the pulley element 1016 is released. Other mechanisms may be used to drive the pulley element 1016 to hold in the first position; the pulley element 1016 For example, define an opening and a spring-loaded pin, such as the under 748 in 10 can be inserted into the opening to the pulley element 1016 to hold in position.

In 16 and 17 to which reference is now made, is a door assembly 1100 at least one hinge (not shown) relative to a vehicle body hinge pillar 1104 rotatably mounted, and thus can be pivoted about the at least one hinge selectively between an open position (shown in FIG 16 ) and a closed position (shown in FIG 17 ) are pivoted. The door arrangement 1100 includes an inner panel 1108 cooperating with an outer panel (not shown) about a door cavity 1112 define. A door opening actuator 1116 includes a rod 1120 that is from the inside of the door cavity 1112 through one in the inner panel 1108 formed opening in the space between an outer wall 1124 of the inner panel 1108 and the hinge pillar 1104 extends into it.

The door opening actuator 1116 also includes an SMA wire 1128 , which is a section of the door cavity 1112 traverses and at one end to the inner panel 1108 and at the other end on the rod 1120 is appropriate. A feather 1132 surrounds between the hinge pillar 1104 and the wall 1124 of the inner panel 1108 the staff 1120 concentric. That from the wall 1124 removed end of the spring 1132 is at the bar 1120 appropriate.

The SMA wire 1128 is characterized by a predetermined length. If the wire 1128 is in its cold state, its elastic modulus and its resistance to deformation are sufficiently low that the spring 1132 on the wall 1124 the door arrangement 1100 and the end of the staff 1120 acts, the staff 1120 out of the door cavity 1112 also presses and thereby the wire 1128 with respect to its predetermined length stretches. If the wire 1128 heated to its hot state, the wire picks up 1128 again its predetermined length and its modulus increases, causing the rod 1120 in the door cavity 1112 being pulled in, so that the spring 1132 against the wall 1124 is compressed.

A pawl 1136 is selective about a hinge 1140 rotatable around. If the wire 1128 is heated to its predetermined shape, the rod 1120 sufficiently positioned so that one end 1144 the pawl 1136 with the score 1148 in the bar 1120 engages, thereby preventing the compressed spring 1132 the staff 1120 from the in 16 shown position moves, even if the wire 1128 has cooled down to its cold state.

The pawl 1136 is of sufficient size and positioned so that when it is with the notch 1148 in the bar 1120 engages the opposite end 1150 the pawl 1136 closer to the hinge pillar 1104 extends as the rod 1120 , Thus, when the door assembly occurs 1100 is moved to its closed position, wherein the pawl 1136 with the score 1148 engages, the end 1150 the pawl 1136 with the hinge pillar 1104 in contact, before the rod 1120 with the hinge pillar 1104 comes into contact. The from the hinge pillar 1104 to the end 1150 the pawl 1136 applied counterforce causes the pawl 1136 about the pivot 1140 out of engagement with the notch 1148 turns as in 17 shown.

In 17 which is now specifically referred to, presses the spring 1132 when the pawl 1136 not with the score 1148 engaged and the SMA wire 1128 cooled down to its cold state, the rod 1120 from the cavity 1112 out to the bar 1120 with the hinge pillar 1104 comes into contact. When the door is unlocked, the compressed spring acts 1132 on the wall 1124 to the door assembly 1100 to push towards their open position, as in 16 shown. When the door assembly 1100 is in the open position and the wire 1128 heated to its hot state, enters the pawl 1136 with the score 1148 engaged. The pawl 1136 can be designed such that the gravity of the pawl 1136 with the score 1148 engages, or it may be a spring (not shown), the pawl 1136 with the score 1148 move into engagement.

If a containment connection with the door arrangements off 13 - 17 is used, it may be desirable to modify the containment connection so that the tendency of the containment connection to close the door is less than the tendency of the springs 1020 . 1132 to open the door; This can be done by changing the profile of the Aufhaltverbindung. The design of the pawl 1136 out 16 and 17 can also be used to the pulley element 1016 out 13 - 15 to hold in its first position, creating a pawl 1050 is replaced. Although the pulley element 1016 in 13 - 15 and the staff 1120 in 16 and 17 rotate with respect to the same axis as the corresponding door assemblies, the axes of rotation of the elements 1016 . 1120 be offset within the scope of the claimed invention with respect to the axis of rotation of their respective door assemblies.

In 18 to which reference is now made, an assembly 1200 for locking a closure (not shown) which is rotatable about a horizontal axis is shown schematically. Exemplary closures which are rotatable about a horizontal axis include, but are not limited to, hoods, rear trunk lids (ie, trunk latches), tailgates, etc. The order 1200 includes a construction element 1204 , the two flanges 1208 . 1210 for attaching the element 1204 with respect to a vehicle body. The element 1204 also defines a striker slot 1214 that at one end 1218 is open. The element 1204 is attached to a rear panel or rear wall of a trunk or other rear storage compartment such that the striker slot 1214 is open at the top to receive a locking bar (not shown) attached to the closure. A lock 1222 is in relation to the element 1204 attached so that the latch 1222 picks up the striker when the striker is in the slot 1214 enters, and includes a rotary latch (not shown) to engage the striker, as understood by those skilled in the art. Thus, when the shutter is moved to its closed position, the striker is translated through the slot 1214 characterized, which it follows, wherein the striker through the open end 1218 in the slot 1214 enters and moves through the slot until it locks with the latch 1222 engages, which engages the striker, as understood by those skilled in the art.

The order 1200 also includes an arm 1226 who is at a swivel 1230 swiveling with the element 1204 connected is. The arm 1226 is about the pivot between a first position (in 18 shown) and a second position pivoted. If the arm 1226 is in its first position, crosses a section 1234 of the arm 1226 the travel of the striker through the slot 1214 ; when the arm 1226 is in his second position, crosses the arm 1226 either not the travel path of the striker, or it crosses the travel of the striker closer to the end of the travel, ie closer to the position that the striker occupies when fully with the lock 1222 is engaged, as is the case when the arm 1226 is in the first position. A in terms of the hinge 1230 on the section 1234 opposite section 1238 of the arm 1226 is with a spring 1242 connected. The feather 1242 connects the section 1238 and the element 1204 together.

A pulley 1244 is in relation to the arm 1226 attached and is selectively around the hinge 1230 rotatable around. An SMA wire 1246 is at one end around the pulley 1244 wound around and is at the other end in relation to the vehicle body 1248 appropriate. The SMA wire 1246 is characterized by a predetermined length. If the wire 1246 is heated to its hot state, it returns to its predetermined length, ie, its length decreases, thereby causing the pulley 1244 and accordingly the arm 1226 (counterclockwise, as in 10 visible) around the hinge 1230 turn around to the second position, in which the section 1234 of the arm 1226 essentially not over the slot 1214 extends and is substantially not in the travel of a striker, which is during engagement in the lock 1222 through the slot 1214 moved through. If the arm 1226 Turning from his first position to his second position, he stretches the pen 1242 ; the feather 1242 is thus under tension when the arm 1226 is in his second position and presses his arm 1226 back to his first position.

Accordingly, by heating the wire 1246 and thus by moving the arm 1226 reduced in its second position of the force required to move the shutter in its closed position, since the striker on its traverse to the lock 1222 not on the arm 1226 meets or travels to the lock 1222 only later on the arm 1226 meets, and therefore the spring 1242 the movement of the striker over its travel path away no resistance or the movement of the striker over a smaller portion of its travel path resistance, as is the case when the arm 1226 is in his first position. After the striker with the latch 1222 engaged, the wire cools 1246 on his cold condition. If the wire 1246 is in its cold state, is the module of the wire 1246 sufficiently low, that of the spring 1242 on the arm 1226 applied force is sufficient to the wire 1246 in a pseudoplastic manner, so that it is longer than its predetermined length. The feather 1242 it's pushing your arm 1226 to turn from its second position to its first position, which in turn causes the pulley 1244 turns, causing the wire 1246 is stretched in a pseudoplastic manner. The of the spring 1242 on the arm 1226 applied force is sufficient to the arm 1226 to turn, leaving the section 1234 is in contact with the striker. The feather 1242 is still curious when the arm 1226 comes into contact with the striker, and biases the section 1234 against the striker, so that when the lock is released, the arm 1226 pushes the striker, and thus the closure, into the open position of the closure.

In 19 to which reference is now made and in which like reference numbers refer to like components 18 is an alternative arrangement 1200A for locking a shutter, which is rotatable about a horizontal axis, shown schematically. A lever 1256 stands by a connecting arm 1252 with the arm 1226A in active connection. The connecting arm 1252 connects the lever 1256 with the arm 1226A so that this is common with the arm 1226A around the hinge 1230 turns around. In the illustrated embodiment, the lever 1256 essentially parallel to the section 1238 However, other configurations may be used within the scope of the claimed invention.

The wire 1246 is at one end on the lever 1256 attached, and heating the wire 1246 on its hot condition therefore causes the lever 1256 , and with him the arm 1226A , around the hinge 1230 moved from his second position to his first position. The order 1200A also includes a pawl 1260 working on a swivel 1264 swiveling with the element 1204 connected is. The pawl 1260 includes a hook portion 1268 which is designed to be the end of the section 1234 engages when the arm 1226A is in the second position. It should be noted that the pawl 1260 shown here is her arm 1226A engaged, the arm is in 19 in the first position is that the pawl 1260 but preferably with the arm 1226A engages when the arm is in its second position.

Thus, after the wire occurs 1246 has been heated and the arm 1226A has moved to its second position, the pawl 1260 with the arm 1226A engaged to hold the arm in its second position. A spring (not shown) preferably pushes the pawl 1260 under tension with the arm 1226A engaged. An SMA wire 1272 is at one end on the element 1204 and at the other end on the pawl 1260 appropriate. By heating the wire 1272 will cause the wire 1272 a force on the pawl 1260 exerts, so the pawl 1260 around the hinge 1264 around out of engagement with the arm 1226A rotates, thereby allowing the spring 1242 the arm 1226A to the open position and in contact with the striker in the slot 1214 suppressed.

Accordingly, the wire can 1246 be heated before the movement of the closure in the closed position; the pawl 1260 Hold your arm 1226A even after the wire 1246 has cooled to its cold state, in its second position. After the striker has engaged with the latch, the wire can become 1272 be warmed to the arm 1226A to release from the pawl and engage with the striker.

In another embodiment (not shown) also a whole or partial pulley may be the partial or complete lever 1256 replaced and located within the plane of the rear wall of the vehicle body to provide a constant moment arm. In another embodiment (not shown), the pawl 1260 between the striker slot 1214 and the common axis of rotation 1230 for the two levers 1226A . 1256 be located. In yet another embodiment (not shown), the tension spring 1242 also be placed outside the plane of the back wall.

In yet another alternative embodiment, one between two A switchable latch / unlatch mechanism (not shown) similar to that used in certain retractable ballpoint pens is used so that once the SMA wire is operated once 1246 the feather 1242 is stretched and switched to the locked state; a second actuation of the SMA wire 1246 causes the spring 1242 is switched to the unlocked state.

The pawl 1260 can be actuated, ie moved, within the scope of the claimed invention in various manners, ie, around the pawl 1260 with the arm 1226A to disengage. In a first embodiment, the pawl 1260 actuated by an actuator which is the operation of the pawl 1260 is fixedly assigned, such as a motor, an SMA wire, a solenoid, etc. In a second embodiment, the pawl 1260 operated by a latch release mechanism which operates equally with the latch (shown at 1222 in 8th ) and with the pawl 1260 is in active compound; the latch release mechanism may be configured to engage the pawl 1260 either simultaneously with, or slightly before causing the lock 1222 to release the striker, operated. Alternatively, the latch release mechanism can only use part of its way to the pawl 1260 after the closure is fully closed, he uses a full path to the lock 1222 if necessary. The latch release mechanism may even solve more than two latches simultaneously or discretely using different path lengths. In a third embodiment, a movement associated with the complete closure of the closure is used for the pawl 1260 to press. For example, the movement of the rotary latch (not shown) in the latch 1222 From the secondary to the primary position or the closing movement from the half-open to the fully closed position, a movement of the pawl 1260 cause. It may be desirable to use a cinch lock to ensure some travel and thereby ensure that the shutter can be fully closed and the spring energy released.

In 20A - 20D to which reference is now made and in which like reference numbers refer to like components 18 - 19 include an arrangement 1200B an arm 1226 that's about the swivel 1230 , as in 19 shown on the element 1204 is appropriate. The arm section 1238 is at one end of the spring 1242 appropriate. A cam 1280 is eccentric with a swivel joint 1284 for selective rotation in relation to the 1204 in 19 connected element connected. The cam 1280 includes a nose portion 1286 , The SMA wire 1288 is at one end with the cam 1280 connected and is at the other end with the element 1204 or the back wall connected. The SMA wire 1292 is at one end with the cam 1280 connected and is at the other end with the element 1204 connected.

The arm 1226 is in 20A shown in his first position. Heating the wire 1288 on his hot condition causes the wire 1288 shortened in length, leaving the SMA wire 1288 a force on the cam 1280 exerts, which causes the cam 1280 (counterclockwise in the figures) around the hinge 1284 turns around, leaving the nose 1286 with the arm 1226 comes into contact and causes the arm to become an in 20B shown intermediate position and then in his in 20C shown, second position turns. After the wire 1288 has cooled to its cold state, is the wire 1292 heated to its hot state, which causes the wire 1292 shortened in length, leaving the wire 1292 a force on the cam 1280 exerts, which causes the cam 1280 itself (clockwise in the figures) by the in 20D shown intermediate position in his in 20A shown position turns. The end of the nose 1286 that comes into contact with the arm when the arm 1226 is in the second position is flat. The cam 1280 acts as a locking device when the arm 1226 is in the second position, and as a stop when the arm 1226 is in the first position. In this embodiment, the cam 1280 and the wires 1288 . 1292 Coplanar, whereby the required installation space is minimized. In an alternative embodiment, the wire is 1292 replaced by a coil spring and the arm 1226 still partially crosses the travel path of the striker through the slot 1214 in 20C so that the end path of the closure during closing the arm 1226 slightly moved past the second position, and therefore the cam can by the spring in the in 20A shown position to be moved.

In an alternative embodiment, the cam 1280 shaped so that a single SMA wire could operate the device entirely by itself. Suppose the device is as described in the in 20C moved position shown, so if the cam is formed in a suitable manner and the wire ( 1288 ) is appropriately sized and dimensioned so that there is still some distance left, it could be reactivated to the cam 1280 to turn a little further counterclockwise. Once the flat section of the cam has been overcome, The shape of the nose could be such that the spring force is sufficient to the cam in the in 20A return shown position, causing the cam 1280 essentially turned in a single direction to the arm 1226 equally compress and solve.

In 21 to which reference is now made and in which like reference numbers refer to like components 18 - 20D The arrangement comprises 1200C two SMA wires 1296A . 1296B , The wire 1296A is at one end on the construction element 1204 attached and is at the other end to the arm 1226 appropriate. The wire 1296B is at one end on the construction element 1204 attached and attached to the other end of the arm. The wires 1296A and 1296B are essentially in the same place on your arm 1226 on the arm 1226 attached, and are so on the construction element 1204 attached that wires 1296A . 1296B form an obtuse angle.

In 22 to which reference is now made is a locking system 1300 for a door 1304 shown schematically. The door 1304 is in relation to a vehicle body construction element 1308 selectively pivotable. The lock 1300 includes an element 1312 that in terms of the door 1304 is attached and in relation to the door 1304 is selectively rotatable about its center. The element 1312 carries two pawl teeth 1316 . 1320 and a lead 1324 , The lock also includes a pawl 1328 with a lead 1332 , The lock 1300 is so at the door 1304 attached that when the door 1304 closed, the lead 1324 with a striker 1336 , which on the vehicle body construction element 1308 is attached, comes into contact. The contact between the projection 1324 and the striker 1336 causes a rotation of the element 1312 in relation to the door 1304 ,

While the element 1312 turns, the teeth turn 1316 . 1320 with the lead 1332 the pawl 1328 engaged. The pawl 1328 is in relation to the door 1304 rotatable to selectively engage and disengage the pawl 1328 and the teeth 1316 . 1320 to allow. A feather 1334 clamps the pawl 1328 before, to the engagement between the pawl 1328 and the teeth 1316 . 1320 to maintain.

The lock 1300 includes a spring 1340 and an SMA spring 1344 that are designed so that they are stretched when the striker 1336 the element 1312 rotates. If the door 1304 closed and the SMA spring 1344 is in its cold state, is the module of the spring 1344 sufficiently low so that there is no excessive force when closing the door. By applying a thermal activation signal to the spring 1344 to the spring 1344 to heat up to their hot state, the pseudoplastic strain is out of the spring 1344 removed, and the spring 1344 thus contributes to the door 1304 to move to its open position when the pawl 1328 is solved. The feather 1344 namely causes a rotation of the element 1312 so the lead 1324 on the striker 1336 acts, which in turn causes a drag, which the door 1304 pushes to their open position.

It may be desirable for an SMA wire to be operatively connected to elements such as door inner panels, etc. via a spring so that the spring can adjust the force of the SMA wire when it returns to its predetermined shape, in case in that an object blocks the opening of the door.

The embodiments depicted here are connected to a vehicle door, i. H. related to a closure. It should be noted, however, that any door system may be used within the scope of the claimed invention. For example, within the scope of the claimed invention, a "door" may be any closure or pan plate, such as a door for a toaster oven, a door for a sports car, a door for a kitchen cabinet, and the like A vehicle bonnet, a trunk lid, a tailgate, a rear side wall, a cover, a door in a residential or office building, etc. Similarly, a "design element" within the scope of the invention, for example, a vehicle body or a A component thereof, such as a hinge pillar, a rocking lever, etc., a door frame or a wall of a building, a structure defining a kitchen box, the housing of a toast roasting oven, etc. act.

In the following, a number of exemplary embodiments of active material based door opening actuation arrangements will be described. The active material based actuator assemblies described herein use shape memory alloy wires. However, other active materials may also be used within the scope of the claimed invention. For example, other shape memory materials may also be used. By shape-memory materials, a class of active materials, sometimes referred to as intelligent materials, is meant materials or compositions that have the ability to remember their original shape, which can then be applied by or Exposure of an external stimulus (ie an activation signal) can be recalled. The deformation of a shape memory material with respect to its original state can thus represent a temporary state.

Exemplary shape memory materials include shape memory alloys (SMAs), electrochemically active polymers (EAPs) such as dielectric elastomers, piezoelectric polymers and shape memory polymers (SMPs), magnetic shape memory alloys (MSMAs), shape memory ceramics (SMCs), baroplasts, piezoelectric ceramics, magnetorheological elastomers (MR elastomers) as well as composites of the aforementioned shape memory materials with non-shape memory materials, as well as combinations comprising at least one of the aforementioned shape memory materials. The EAPs, piezoceramics, baroplasts, and the like can be used in a similar manner to the shape memory alloys described herein, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure.

In the present invention, most embodiments include shape memory wires; however, shape memory materials and other active materials within the scope of the claimed invention may also be used in a variety of other forms such as strips, sheets, sheets, foam, cell and grid structures, helical or tubular springs, braided cables, pipes, or the like Combinations comprising at least one of the aforementioned forms may be used in a similar manner as would be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure.

Suitable shape memory alloys may have a one-way shape memory effect, a proprietary two-way effect, or a two-way outer shape memory effect, depending on the alloy composition and processing history thereof. The two phases that occur in shape memory alloys are often referred to as martensite phase and austenite phase. The martensite phase is a relatively soft and easily deformable phase of the shape memory alloys, which is generally given at lower temperatures. The austenite phase, the stronger phase of shape memory alloys, occurs at higher temperatures. Shape memory materials formed from shape memory alloy compositions having one-way shape memory effects do not automatically recover and, depending on the shape memory material design, often require an external mechanical force to recover their original shape alignment. Shape memory materials having a material shape memory effect are made from a shape memory alloy composition that automatically returns to its original shape.

The temperature at which the shape memory alloy returns to its high temperature form upon heating can be adjusted by minor changes in alloy composition and by heat treatment. For example, in nickel-titanium shape memory alloys, it can be changed from about 100 ° C to below about -100 ° C. The shape recovery process occurs over a range of several degrees and the beginning and end of the transformation can be controlled to a few degrees, depending on the desired application and alloy composition. The mechanical properties of the shape memory alloy can vary greatly over the temperature range in which its transformation occurs, typically giving the shape memory material shape memory effects as well as high damping capability. The inherent, high damping ability of the shape memory alloys can be used to further increase their energy absorbing properties.

Suitable shape memory alloy materials include, but are not limited to, nickel-titanium alloys, indium-titanium alloys, nickel-aluminum alloys, nickel-gallium alloys, copper alloys (eg, copper-zinc alloys, copper-aluminum alloys, copper-gold, and copper-tin alloys). Gold-cadmium alloys, silver-cadmium alloys, indium-cadmium alloys, manganese-copper alloys, iron-platinum alloys, iron-palladium alloys and the like. The alloys may be binary, ternary, or higher order alloys as long as the alloy composition has a shape memory effect, i. H. a change in the shape alignment, the damping ability and the like.

Other suitable active materials are shape memory polymers. Similar to the behavior of a shape memory alloy, the shape memory polymer also undergoes a change in shape alignment as a temperature increase occurs that extends beyond its transition temperature range. Unlike the SMAs, raising the temperature above its transition temperature leads to a significant drop in the modulus. While SMAs are better for actuators, SMPs are better suited as "reverse" actuators. Insofar as when warming the SMP over the transient temperature of which results in a significant drop in modulus, there may be a release of stored energy blocked by the SMP in its low temperature, high modulus form. To establish the permanent shape of the shape memory polymer, the polymer must be approximately at or above the Tg or melting point of the hard segment of the polymer. "Segment" refers to a polymer block or sequence that forms part of the shape memory polymer. The formation of the shape memory polymers is carried out at the temperature with an applied force, followed by cooling to set the permanent shape. The temperature required to set the permanent shape is preferably 100 ° C to 300 ° C. Setting the temporary shape of the shape memory polymer requires that the shape memory polymer material be brought to a temperature that is equal to or above the Tg or transition temperature of the soft segment, but below the Tg or melting point of the hard segment. At the transition temperature of the soft segment (also called "first transition temperature"), the temporary shape of the shape memory polymer is determined, followed by cooling of the shape memory polymer to enclose the temporary shape. The temporary shape is maintained as long as it remains below the transition temperature of the soft segment. The permanent shape is regained when the shape memory polymer fibers are reheated to above the transition temperature of the soft segment. By repeating the steps of heating, molding and cooling, the temporary shape can be re-established. The transition temperature of the soft segment for a particular application can be selected by modifying the structure and composition of the polymer. The transition temperatures of the soft segment vary in a range of about -63 ° C to about 120 ° C.

Shape memory polymers may comprise more than just two transition temperatures. A shape memory polymer composition comprising a hard segment and two soft segments may have three transition temperatures: the highest transition temperature for the hard segment and a transition temperature for each soft segment.

Most shape memory polymers have a "one way" effect wherein the shape memory polymer has a single permanent shape. Upon heating the shape memory polymer to a higher temperature than the first transition temperature, the permanent shape is achieved and the shape does not reform back to the temporary shape without the application of external forces. Alternatively, certain shape memory polymer compositions may be conditioned to have a "two-way" effect. These systems consist of at least two polymer components. For example, one component could be a first crosslinked polymer while the other component is another crosslinked polymer. The constituents are combined by layering techniques or represent mutually interpenetrating networks, with two components being networked, but not one another. By altering the temperature, the shape memory polymer changes shape in the direction from the first permanent shape to the second permanent shape. Each of the permanent forms is part of the shape memory polymer. The two permanent forms are always in balance between both forms. The temperature dependence of the shape is due to the fact that the mechanical properties of a constituent ("constituent A") are nearly independent of the temperature within the relevant temperature interval. The mechanical properties of the other ingredient ("ingredient B") are temperature dependent. In one embodiment, component B becomes stronger at low temperatures compared to component A, while component A is stronger at high temperatures and determines the actual shape. A two-way memory device can be prepared by setting the permanent shape of component A ("first permanent shape"); the device is placed in the permanent form of component B (second permanent mold) and the permanent form of component B is fixed while tension is applied to the component.

Similar to shape memory alloys, shape memory polymers can also be designed in a variety of shapes and forms. The temperature necessary to recover the permanent mold can be set at any temperature between about -63 ° C and about 120 ° C or above. Already in designing the composition and structure of the polymer itself, the selection of a particular temperature for a desired application can be considered. A preferred temperature for shape recovery is greater than or equal to about -30 ° C, more preferably greater than or equal to about 0 ° C, and most preferably greater than or equal to about 50 ° C. Further, a preferred temperature for shape recovery is less than or equal to about 120 ° C, more preferably less than or equal to 90 ° C, and most preferably less than or equal to about 70 ° C.

Suitable shape memory polymers include thermoplastics, thermosets, interpenetrating Networks, semi-interpenetrating networks, or mixed networks. The polymer may be a single polymer or a mixture of polymers. The polymers may be linear or branched thermoplastic elastomers having side chains or dendritic structural elements. Suitable polymer constituents for forming a shape memory polymer include, but are not limited to, polyphosphazenes, polyvinyl alcohols, polyamides, polyesteramides, poly (amino acids), polyanhydrides, polycarbonates, polyacrylates, polyalkylenes, polyacrylamides, polyalkylene glycols, polyalkylene oxides, polyalkylene terephthalates, polyorthoesters, polyvinyl ethers, polyvinyl esters, Polyvinyl halides, polyesters, polylactides, polyglycolides, polysiloxanes, polyurethanes, polyethers, polyetheramides, polyetheresters and their copolymers. Examples of suitable polyacrylates are polymethylmethacrylate, polyethylmethacrylate, polybutylmethacrylate, polyisobutylmethacrylate, polyhexylmethacrylate, polyisodecylmethacrylate, polylaurylmethacrylate, polyphenylmethacrylate, polymethylacrylate, polyisopropylacrylate, polyisobutylacrylate and polyoctadecylacrylate. Examples of other suitable polymers include polystyrene, polypropylene, polyvinylphenol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, chlorinated polybutylene, polyoctadecyl vinyl ether, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyethylene, poly (ethylene oxide) -poly (ethylene terephthalate), polylethylene / nylon (graft polymer), polycaprolactone polyamide (block copolymer), polycaprolactone dimethacrylate n-butyl acrylate, polyhedral, oligomeric polynorbornylsilsequioxane, polyvinyl chloride, urethane / butadiene copolymers, polyurethane block copolymers, styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymers, and the like.

The shape memory polymer or shape memory alloy may be activated by any suitable means, preferably by means whereby the material is subjected to a temperature change up or down over a transition temperature. To increase the temperature, heat can be supplied using hot gas (eg air), steam, hot liquid or electric current. For example, the activating agent may be in the form of heat conduction through a heated element in contact with the shape memory material, by heat convection from a heated conduit proximate to the thermally active shape memory material, a hot air blower, microwave heating, resistance heating, and the like. In the case of a temperature reduction, heat dissipation may be achieved by the use of cold gas or by evaporation of a coolant. For example, the activating means may be in the form of a cold room or housing, with a cooling probe having a cooled tip, a thermoelectric unit control signal, a cold air blower, or a means to at least close proximity to coolant (such as liquid nitrogen) of the shape memory material.

Suitable magnetic materials include, but are not limited to, soft or hard magnets; hematite; magnetite; magnetic material based on iron, nickel and cobalt, alloys of these or combinations comprising at least one of them, and the like. Alloys of iron, nickel and / or cobalt may include aluminum, silicon, cobalt, nickel, vanadium, molybdenum, chromium, tungsten, manganese and / or copper.

Suitable MR elastomeric materials include, but are not limited to, an elastic polymeric matrix comprising a suspension of ferromagnetic or paramagnetic particles, the particles being described above. Suitable polymeric matrices include, but are not limited to, poly-alpha-olefins, natural rubber, silicone, polybutadiene, polyethylene, polyisoprene, and the like.

Electroactive polymers include those polymeric materials that exhibit piezoelectric, pyroelectric or electrostrictive properties in response to electrical or mechanical fields. The materials generally use compliant electrodes that allow polymer layers to expand and contract, respectively, in the same plane in response to applied electric fields or mechanical stresses applied. An example of this is an electrostrictive sample elastomer with a piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluorethylene copolymer. This combination has the ability to produce a variable amount of ferroelectric-electrostrictive molecular composite systems. These can be operated as a piezoelectric sensor or even as an electrostrictive actuator. Upon activation of an EAP based attenuator, an electrical signal is used to effect a change in shape alignment sufficient to cause a change in length. By reversing the polarity of the voltage applied to the EAP, a reversible closing mechanism can be created.

Materials suitable for use as the electroactive polymer may include, but are not limited to, any substantially insulative polymer or rubbers (or combinations thereof) which deform in response to an electrostatic force or whose deformation translates into an electrical change Fields affects. As exemplary materials, suitable for use as pre-stretched polymers These include, but are not limited to, silicone elastomers, acrylic elastomers, polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers, copolymers comprising PVDF, pressure-sensitive adhesives, fluoroelastomers, polymers comprising silicone and acrylic moieties, and the like. Polymers comprising silicone and acrylic moieties include, for example, copolymers comprising silicone and acrylic moieties, polymer blends comprising a silicone elastomer, and an acrylic elastomer.

Materials used as electroactive polymers may be selected based on one or more properties such as a high dielectric strength, a low elastic modulus (for large and small deformations), a high dielectric constant, and the like. In one embodiment, the polymer is selected to have a modulus of elasticity of at most about 100 MPa. In another embodiment, the polymer is selected to have a maximum actuation pressure between about 0.05 MPa and about 10 MPa, and preferably between about 0.3 MPa and about 3 MPa. In another embodiment, the polymer is selected to have a dielectric constant between about 2 and about 20, and preferably between about 2.5 and about 12. The present invention should not be limited to these ranges. Ideally, materials with a higher dielectric constant than the ranges indicated above would be desirable if the materials had both a high dielectric constant and a high dielectric strength. In many cases, electroactive polymers can be fabricated and realized as thin films. Thicknesses suitable for these thin films may be less than 50 microns.

Since electroactive polymers can deflect at high strains, the electrodes attached to the polymers should also be able to be deflected without mechanical or electrical performance degradation. In general, electrodes suitable for use may be of any shape and material, provided they are capable of supplying an appropriate voltage to or receiving a suitable voltage from an electroactive polymer. The voltage can be either constant or varying over time. In one embodiment, the electrodes adhere to a surface of the polymer. The electrodes adhering to the polymer are preferably compliant and conform to the changing shape of the polymer. Accordingly, the present invention may include compliant electrodes that conform to the shape of an electroactive polymer to which they are attached. The electrodes may be applied only to a portion of an electroactive polymer and define an active region according to their geometry. Suitable for use with the present invention are various types of electrodes including structured electrodes including metal traces and charge distribution layers, textured electrodes comprising varying non-planar dimensions, conductive fats such as carbon fats or silver fats, colloidal suspensions, high aspect ratio conductive materials such as carbon fibrils and Carbon nanotubes, as well as mixtures of ion-conductive materials.

The materials used for electrodes according to the present disclosure may vary. Suitable materials used in an electrode may include but are not limited to graphite, carbon black, colloidal suspensions, thin metals including silver and gold, silver filled and carbon filled gels and polymers, as well as ionically conductive or electronically conductive polymers. It will be appreciated that certain electrode materials work well with certain polymers and may not work well with others. For example, carbon fibrils work well with acrylic elastomer polymers, but not so well with silicone polymers.

The active material may also comprise a piezoelectric material. In certain embodiments, the piezoelectric material may also be designed as an actuator that allows for rapid deployment. As used herein, the term "piezoelectric" is intended to describe a material that mechanically deforms (changes shape) when a voltage potential is applied thereto, or conversely, generates an electrical charge when mechanically deformed. When using the piezoelectric material, an electrical signal is used for activation. After activation, the piezoelectric material may cause a change in length in the excited state. Upon exposure of the activation signal, the strips revert to their original shape alignment, e.g. B. a straight shape alignment, back.

Preferably, a piezoelectric material is disposed on strips of flexible metal or a ceramic layer. The stripes can be unimorph or bimorph. Preferably, the strips are bimorphic because bimorphs generally have a greater change in length than unimorphs.

One type of unimorph is a structure that consists of a single piezoelectric element that is externally bonded to a flexible metal foil or strip that is excited by the piezoelectric element when it is under alternating voltage is activated, and this leads to an axial buckling or deflection, since he / she provides resistance to the movement of the piezoelectric element. The movement of the actuator for a Unimorph may be a contraction or an expansion. Unimorphs can have an elongation of up to about 10%, but generally can tolerate only low stresses relative to the general dimensions of the unimorph structure.

In contrast to the unimorph piezoelectric device, a bimorph device comprises a flexible metal interlayer sandwiched between two piezoelectric elements. Bimorphs therefore have a greater change in length because, with voltage applied, one ceramic element contracts while the other expands. Bimorphs can have elongations of up to about 20% but, like the unimorphs, generally can not tolerate high stresses relative to the general dimensions of the unimorph structure.

Suitable piezoelectric materials include inorganic compounds, organic compounds and metals. With respect to organic materials, all polymeric materials having non-central symmetric structure and large dipole moment group (s) on the main chain or on the side chain or on both chains within the molecules may be used as materials suitable for the piezoelectric film. Examples of suitable polymers include, but are not limited to, polysodium 4-styrenesulfonate ("PSS"), poly S-119 (polyvinylamine) backbone azo chromophore) and their derivatives; Polyfluorohydrocarbons comprising polyvinylidene fluoride (("PVDF"), its copolymer vinylidene fluoride ("VDF"), trifluoroethylene (TrFE) and their derivatives; polychlorohydrocarbons comprising polyvinyl chloride ("PVC"), polyvinylidene chloride ("PVDC") and derivatives thereof; Polyacrylonitriles ("PAN") and their derivatives; polycarboxylic acids, including polymethacrylic acid ("PMA") and its derivatives; polyureas and their derivatives; polyurethanes ("PU") and their derivatives; bio-polymer molecules, such as poly-L-lactic acids, and their derivatives, and membrane proteins, and phosphate biomolecules; polyanilines and their derivatives, and all derivatives of tetramines; polyimides, including Kapton molecules and polyetherimides ("PEI") and their derivatives; all of the membrane polymers; poly (N-vinylpyrrolidone) ("PVP") - Homopolymer, and its derivatives, and random PVP-co-vinyl acetate ("PVAc") - Copolymers, and all of the aromatic polymers with Dipole moment groups in the main chain or side chains or equally in the main chain and side chains, as well as mixtures thereof.

Other possible piezoelectric materials may include Pt, Pd, Ni, Ti, Cr, Fe, Ag, Au, Cu and metal alloys, and mixtures thereof. In addition, to these piezoelectric materials, for example, metal oxide such as SiO 2, Al 2 O 3, ZrO 2, TiO 2, SrTiO 3, PbTiO 3, BaTiO 3, FeO 3, Fe 3 O 4, ZnO, and mixtures thereof; and VIA and IIB compounds such as CdSe, CdS, GaAs, AgCaSe 2, ZnSe, GaP, InP, ZnS, and mixtures thereof. Suitable active materials include, but are not limited to, shape memory alloys (SMA), ferromagnetic SMAs, piezoelectric materials, electroactive polymers (EAP) and magnetorheological elastomers (MR).

As a possible activation signal provided by an activation device (not shown), among others, a heat signal, a magnetic signal, an electrical signal, a pneumatic signal, a mechanical signal and the like, as well as combinations thereof, comprising at least one of the aforementioned signals , Wherein the concrete activation signal is dependent on the materials and / or the design of the active material. For example, a magnetic and / or electrical signal may be applied to alter the property of the active material fabricated from magnetostrictive materials. A thermal signal may be applied to alter the property of the active material fabricated from shape memory alloys and / or shape memory polymers. An electrical signal may be applied to alter the property of the active material fabricated from electroactive materials, piezoelectrics, electrostatic materials and / or ion polymer-metal composites.

Claims (16)

A door system comprising: a structural element; a door movably mounted with respect to the structural member to move between an open position and a closed position; and a spring mounted with respect to the structural member or the door and positioned sufficiently to bias the door toward its open position when the door is in its closed position; wherein the door defines a door cavity and an opening; the door system further having an L-shaped angle with a first arm portion and a second arm portion, the angle being pivotally mounted with respect to the door and the structural member; wherein the first arm portion extends through the opening into the door cavity; and wherein the spring surrounds the first arm portion outside the door cavity. The door system of claim 1, wherein the spring forces the door and the second arm portion apart when the door is in the closed position. The door system of claim 1, further comprising an actuator having an active material configured to undergo a change in at least one feature in response to an activation signal; wherein the active material is operatively connected to the door and the angle such that the change in at least one feature causes the angle to move relative to the door to a position in which the spring is compressed. The door system of claim 3, further comprising a latch adapted to releasably retain the angle in the position in which the spring is compressed. The door system of claim 3, wherein the angle within the door panel has a hook; and wherein the door system further comprises a pawl configured to selectively engage the hook to releasably engage the angle in the position in which the spring is compressed. The door system of claim 1, further comprising an actuator having an active material configured to undergo a change in at least one feature in response to an activation signal; wherein the active material is operatively associated with the spring to selectively compress the spring. The door system of claim 6, further comprising a locking member configured to releasably maintain the compression of the spring. Door system according to claim 7, wherein the locking element is a pin. Door system according to claim 7, wherein the locking element is a pawl. The door system of claim 7, further comprising a notch actuating member for selectively moving the latch member thereby allowing expansion of the spring. The door system of claim 10, further comprising a latch configured to releasably hold the door in the closed position; and wherein the unlatching actuator is configured to selectively disengage the latch. The door system of claim 1, wherein the structural member defines a slot having an open end for receiving a striker; the door system further comprising a rotatable arm adapted to cross the slot; and wherein the spring biases the arm towards the open end of the slot. The door system of claim 12, further comprising an actuator having an active material configured to undergo a change in at least one feature in response to an activation signal; wherein the active material is operatively associated with the arm such that the change in at least one feature causes the arm to move away from the open end of the slot. The door system of claim 13, wherein the actuator further comprises a cam; and wherein the active material is connected to the arm via the cam. The door system of claim 1, further comprising a latch mounted with respect to the door; wherein a striker is mounted relative to the structural member and engageable with the latch; and wherein the spring is of a shape memory material that is deformed when the striker is engaged with the latch. The door system of claim 1, wherein the spring comprises a shape memory material.

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