OPENING BODYWORK FOR A SUBSTRUCTURE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an openingable superstructure for a substructure, such as a truck, trailer, semi-trailer, railway wagon, dump truck, container or the like.

[0002] In practice, openable superstructures for various types of substructures are known, which are either transportable, such as trucks, trailers, semi-trailers, railway wagons, dump trucks, or containers, or stationary, such as carports, swimming pools, houses, or the like. These known superstructures comprise a frame to which, for example, a tarpaulin made of weatherproof material or a plurality of articulated wall elements can be attached. When closed, these wall elements form at least a predominantly closed wall, such as a roof or a side wall. The frame has a plurality of slides that are movable along at least one guide. This guide includes a longitudinal member along which the slides can be moved, and the longitudinal member itself exhibits high rigidity.If the convertible top frame is moved along longitudinal beam members to open the superstructure, it is necessary that one of the convertible top frame and the longitudinal beam member be able to yield to compensate for tolerances or plastic deformations. However, a disadvantage of the openable superstructures known from practice is that the yielding component, either a beam of the convertible top frame or the longitudinal beam member, must be correspondingly weakly dimensioned, which can lead to premature wear or even breakage.

[0003] DE 35 40 128 A1 describes a longitudinal beam member designed as a rail for a rail vehicle, which has a downwardly tapered section through which a screw bolt is inserted and fixed into the laterally bounding surfaces of the longitudinal beam member. The area between the bounding surfaces and the longitudinal beam member is filled with elastic intermediate layers.

[0004] DE 1 430 628 A describes an opening superstructure for a substructure, wherein the superstructure comprises a canopy frame to which a tarpaulin can be attached. The canopy frame comprises a plurality of slides, each of which can be moved along a guide designed as a longitudinal member, with opposing slides being coupled to one another by means of a beam. The slide is designed as a carriage with four support rollers and two guide rollers, the guide rollers being laterally centered in the guide by leg flanges. The canopy frame allows the superstructure to be opened and closed without the adjacent slides being connected to one another, by means of the beam introducing a substantially point-load vertical load into the slide. The longitudinal member comprises several sections that are horizontally fixed by means of support pieces and connecting pieces arranged on stands.The stand is manually adjustable in discrete increments within a support structure, allowing for various vertical positions of the longitudinal beam member. This adjustment is not achieved by moving the slides. A particular disadvantage of this known design is that the beams and slides tend to tilt when the force for movement is applied unevenly.

[0005] The object of the invention is to provide an openable structure that allows for easy opening and closing of the structure.

[0006] This problem is solved according to the invention by an openable structure with the features of an independent claim.

[0007] According to one aspect of the invention, an opening superstructure for a chassis such as a truck, trailer, semi-trailer, railway wagon, dump truck, container, or the like is provided, comprising a tarpaulin frame to which, for example, a tarpaulin made of weather-resistant material or a plurality of articulated wall elements can be attached, wherein the tarpaulin frame has a plurality of slides that are displaceable along at least one guide, the guide comprising a longitudinal member along which the slides are displaceable. The opening superstructure is characterized in that the longitudinal member is adjustable, at least in sections, in a direction transverse to the displacement direction of the slides.This advantageously creates a structure that can be opened, in which the longitudinal member can be adjusted transversely, preferably perpendicularly to the displacement direction of the slides, to the corresponding distance between the slides, thus compensating for play and tolerances. Furthermore, dimensional changes caused by damage or deformation of the substructure can be compensated for. Additionally, if the convertible top frame becomes jammed, this can be more easily resolved by slightly yielding the longitudinal members in the direction transverse to the displacement direction. Finally, it is also advantageous to use components from different manufacturers that differ in their tolerances.

[0008] Advantageously, the longitudinal beam member is an elongated profile, such as a rail, along which the carriages can slide or, if they are equipped with rollers, roll. The length of the longitudinal beam member defines the direction of movement of the carriages.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, the guide comprises a support frame in or on which the longitudinal member is preferably received. The support frame advantageously limits the movement of the longitudinal member in at least one direction and preferably also acts as a bearing for the longitudinal member with respect to its movement. The support frame can be formed from a single part, but it is also possible to assemble the support frame from several parts.

[0010] In an advantageous further development, it is provided that one of the substructure and longitudinal beam member is connected to the support frame, while the other of the substructure and longitudinal beam member is adjustably coupled to the support frame in a direction transverse and preferably perpendicular to the displacement direction of the slides. The support frame can thus be realized in two essential forms: Firstly, as a part rigidly (or movably) connected to the substructure, in which case the support frame slidably mounts the longitudinal beam member. Secondly, as a part rigidly (or movably) connected to the longitudinal beam member that is slidably mounted on the substructure. The support frame can have a load-bearing function in the sense that it absorbs the load of the longitudinal beam member, but this is not mandatory.The supporting frame can have a framing function in the sense that the longitudinal member is framed or enclosed, but this is not mandatory. And both functions certainly do not have to be fulfilled simultaneously.

[0011] In another advantageous embodiment, the longitudinal member can also be directly mounted to the substructure: For example, guide projections can be formed or attached to the substructure or the longitudinal member, enabling relative displacement of the other part, for example, by means of guide recesses. The guide projections can be designed, for example, as cylindrical or prismatic bolts, as dovetail guides, or as links or linkages.

[0012] A cost-effective retrofit is achieved when the support frame is adjustable to the substructure. In this case, the existing substructure can be used virtually unchanged, while the support frame, preferably with a longitudinal member attached either movably or rigidly, is adjustable to the substructure. A simple implementation involves, for example, drilling through holes in the substructure, either partially or completely, and having a bolt of the support frame adjustable within these holes. Alternatively, bolts can be screwed or welded to the substructure, and the support frame can be adjusted along these bolts. The support frame can also be connected to the substructure via a linkage mechanism, such as a four-bar linkage, a pendulum mechanism, or wedge ramps.

[0013] The supporting frame advantageously has a flat base on which the longitudinal member preferably rests. However, it is possible to design the base of the supporting frame in a V-shape, so that the longitudinal member, under the influence of its mass, centers itself towards the lowest point of the V-shaped profile.

[0014] Advantageously, the support frame is fixed to the substructure or the longitudinal member, or formed jointly with it, for example, at the top edge of a wall of the substructure. The support frame can be bolted to the substructure or rigidly connected to it in another way, for example, by welding or riveting. Advantageously, the support frame forms a boundary for the movement of the longitudinal member in at least one direction, preferably on two sides. Furthermore, it can be advantageous for the support frame to also form a boundary in another dimension. If the support frame is fixed to the longitudinal member, they form a single, movable structural unit, with the longitudinal member advantageously supporting the carriages and transferring their forces into the support frame to allow the two parts to move along the substructure.

[0015] A particularly advantageous embodiment is characterized by the fact that the support frame is connected to the longitudinal member or to the substructure via a coupling element that allows relative movement. This advantageously achieves that the coupling element connects the longitudinal member to the support frame, but also allows relative movement of the longitudinal member in at least one direction of deflection transverse to its main extent.

[0016] According to a first preferred embodiment, the coupling element is a bolt fixed to the support frame, along which the longitudinal member is adjustable. The bolt is advantageously fixed to the support frame without play, for example by riveting or bolting, perhaps by means of a nut, so that the bolt and the support frame form a single unit. The longitudinal member has bores through which the bolt passes, and these bores can be moved back and forth along the bolt's advantageously cylindrical outer circumference.

[0017] According to a further advantageous design, the coupling part is designed as a link that is articulated to the support frame and articulated to the longitudinal member, so that the link connects the support frame to the longitudinal member and thus ensures that the longitudinal member cannot be removed from the support frame.

[0018] According to a first advantageous embodiment, the link is arranged horizontally or at least extends horizontally and is pivotable about vertical axes. In this case, the link allows a slight pendulum movement of the longitudinal member around the support frame. A further advantageous embodiment provides that at least two links couple the support frame and the longitudinal member, thus forming a parallelogram linkage. Alternatively, an elongated hole, penetrated by a pin of the other part, can be provided in the longitudinal member and / or in the support frame, which additionally centers the adjustment of the longitudinal member.

[0019] According to a first embodiment, the linkage is arranged horizontally and is pivotable about vertical axes. In this case, the linkage is pivotably connected at one end to the longitudinal member and at the other end to the support frame, allowing movement of the longitudinal member essentially transverse to the axes, but not in the direction of the pivot axes.

[0020] According to another embodiment, the linkage is arranged vertically and is pivotable about horizontal axes on the support frame and the longitudinal member. In this case, the adjustment direction of the longitudinal member comprises a vertical and a horizontal component.

[0021] According to a further preferred embodiment, the coupling element is a projection provided on one of the support frame and the other of the longitudinal member, which is slidably inserted in a groove of the other of the support frame and the other of the longitudinal member. The projection can be integrally formed with the support frame and / or the longitudinal member, or alternatively, it can be made in multiple parts, with the connection to one part being fixed, so that the coupling element, designed as a projection, can be slid together with the support frame or the longitudinal member in the groove of the other part with a defined adjustment direction. Advantageously, the projection is provided on the underside of one part, and the groove is located in the surface of the other part that supports the underside.

[0022] According to another advantageous embodiment, the coupling element is a rolling element or sliding element provided on a support frame and longitudinal beam, for example a number of rollers mounted on the longitudinal beam member, which can roll on a rolling surface of the support frame, preferably in special tracks, so that the longitudinal beam member can adjust its position in a suitably horizontal plane and perpendicular to the extension of the support frame and longitudinal beam by rolling back and forth.

[0023] In a favorable implementation of the opening mechanism, the coupling element is a bolt fixed to the support frame and adjustable relative to the substructure, particularly through a bore in the substructure. The preferably cylindrical bolt allows for easy determination of the adjustment direction, which corresponds to its axis, and can be easily retrofitted. The bolt can simultaneously stiffen the support frame and limit the adjustment range by means of appropriate stops.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment of the opening structure, the coupling element is a bolt fixed to the substructure. The support frame is then adjustable relative to this fixed bolt, for example, by means of a bore adapted to the bolt.

[0025] The two aforementioned implementations can also be combined. Instead of a single through bolt, several, e.g., two, bolt stubs can be used so that the substructure does not have to be completely drilled through.

[0026] According to another preferred embodiment, the coupling element is a nut provided on one of the support frame and longitudinal member, which is axially adjustable on a threaded rod, spindle, or ball screw rod provided on the other of the support frame and longitudinal member. The spindle nut is axially displaced on the threaded rod, spindle, or ball screw rod by setting the rod into rotation. Alternatively, the nut can also be rotatably mounted on one of the support frame and longitudinal member, so that the threaded rod, spindle, or ball screw rod is then not rotatable. The main advantage of this arrangement is the low force that must be introduced by the slides into the longitudinal member to center it in an ideal adjustment position. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a drive, e.g., a motor, to the rotatable spindle rod.to assign an electric motor that supports the displacement of the longitudinal member, for example in response to appropriate sensors that detect which force is transferred from the slides to the longitudinal member.

[0027] At the same time, with the structure closed, the drive can move the longitudinal member into a position in which the convertible top is additionally blocked from movement.

[0028] Preferably, the coupling element is loaded by at least one preloading device in or against a displacement direction of the longitudinal member. If the coupling element is designed, for example, as a link connecting the support frame to the longitudinal member, the link can be loaded, for example, by a torsion spring about its pivot point on one of the two parts; however, it is advantageous for the coupling element to be loaded from both sides, so that it is essentially preset to a central adjustment position and can be deflected from this central adjustment position by overcoming the preload force.

[0029] Advantageously, the longitudinal member is fixed or at least sealed at its end within the support frame. This prevents parts from penetrating the gap between the longitudinal member and the support frame at the end face, and also centers the longitudinal member in the support frame in its final position or at least reduces its adjustability, thus creating defined starting positions for the convertible top frame when the structure is open or closed.

[0030] Preferably, the support frame includes openings through which water and other free-flowing loads such as sand, gravel, or other cargo that is placed into the substructure from above and that falls into the area of ​​the support frame instead of into the substructure can be drained away. This advantageously prevents the adjustability of the longitudinal beam member from being hindered or blocked by the load, and furthermore, the carriages can be moved more reliably along the longitudinal beam member.

[0031] In a favorable embodiment, the support frame is designed to overlap at least a section of the longitudinal member, thus preventing it from lifting off the substructure. The longitudinal member can also be secured to the substructure by a coupling element, which prevents it from lifting off. It is possible that some play exists between the longitudinal member and the support frame, allowing for slight lifting. By preventing the longitudinal member from lifting off the support frame and thus off the substructure, dynamic loads are reliably prevented. These loads, such as those generated during travel with a truck body, can be caused by wind, other environmental influences, and turbulence, and can exert upward stress on the roof.

[0032] It is possible to connect the longitudinal beam member to the substructure in an adjustable manner outside of a coupling element, with a coupling element directly connecting the two parts. In this way, the ends of a telescopic guide can be connected to each of the two parts, e.g., welded, and the longitudinal beam member then assumes the optimal distance determined by the slides. Alternatively, a connection between the longitudinal beam member and the substructure can incorporate a resiliently deformable component, e.g., a torsion spring, which allows displacement in the y-direction against the spring's preload.

[0033] According to a favorable design, the support frame is formed, for example, from an extruded steel or aluminum body, but it is also advantageous if the support frame is composed of several connectable parts, especially such extruded parts, so that the support frame can be flexibly adapted to the length of the substructure or its side wall.

[0034] The longitudinal member is also expediently made of a material such as steel or aluminium using an extrusion process and can advantageously be composed of several connectable sections, the connection of which is so stable that the sections do not break apart or shift differently when the longitudinal member is adjusted.

[0035] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the longitudinal member is pre-tensioned into a starting position by at least one spring element. The spring element provides additional resistance against the adjustment of the longitudinal member transversely to the displacement direction of the slides, so that the longitudinal member is pre-tensioned into a preferably central adjustment position as its starting position. The loading of the longitudinal member can be direct, for example by a leaf spring that is supported against the support frame and loads the longitudinal member away from a wall of the support frame, or indirect, for example via a coupling element or a projection of the longitudinal member.The spring element is preferably manufactured as a steel coil spring and clamped at discrete intervals between the longitudinal beam member and the substructure or support frame. However, it is also possible to use a continuous spring member such as a leaf spring. Alternatively, a plastic buffer can also serve as the spring element, in which case the plastic buffer can be arranged continuously between the longitudinal beam member and the substructure or support frame. If the longitudinal beam member performs a pivoting or oscillating movement around the substructure or support frame, a torsion spring can also be selected for preloading.

[0036] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, a torsion spring is provided instead of a linkage, so that the coupling device designed as a torsion spring simultaneously realizes the coupling of the support frame and the longitudinal member as well as the adjustment of the longitudinal member into a preferred adjustment position.

[0037] Advantageously, a spring element is arranged on each side of the longitudinal member, with the spring elements pre-tensioning the longitudinal member towards a pre-adjustable initial position of the adjustment. By providing spring elements on both sides of the longitudinal member, the longitudinal member can be pre-tensioned in a central position where it is not abutting a stop, thus allowing movement in two directions.

[0038] Preferably, the adjustment direction of the longitudinal beam member transverse to the displacement direction of the slide includes a horizontal component, particularly when the structure closes the substructure from above, with the adjustment direction preferably extending only in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the displacement direction of the slides. If the structure is a side wall, then the adjustment direction (which is part of the displacement direction of the slides) essentially includes a vertical component. The displacement direction of the slides, on the one hand, and the adjustment direction of the longitudinal beam members, on the other hand, preferably define a plane in space that corresponds to the opening of the substructure to be closed.

[0039] If the adjustment movement of the longitudinal member performs a pivoting or pendulum movement, the horizontal component and the vertical component are superimposed, so that the corresponding displacement movement results from these two components.

[0040] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, two opposing slides, positioned with respect to a plane bisecting the substructure longitudinally, are coupled to each other by a beam. This beam, equipped with a slide at each end, then travels with each of the two slides along a longitudinal member in the direction of movement for opening and closing the opening mechanism. Preferably, the beam is rigidly designed so that the two slides define a distance from each other with virtually no tolerance, which in turn determines the distance between the two longitudinal members.

[0041] According to a favorable further development, the frame is selected from the group comprising a bow, a roof-shaped bow, a rigid U-shaped bracket, and a movable U-shaped bracket. The bow and the rigid U-shaped bracket, which is used, for example, in sliding roofs, allow hardly any deformation in the direction in which the paired, opposing longitudinal members are spaced apart from each other and which is also preferably the adjustment direction of the longitudinal member. A less robust and therefore movable U-shaped bracket, on the other hand, yields due to the force with which the longitudinal members are centered.

[0042] Advantageously, the force required to displace the longitudinal beam member is smaller than the force required for elastic and / or plastic deformation of the beam. This ensures that neither the beam nor the slide is elastically or plastically deformed, but rather that the longitudinal beam member is adjusted, particularly against the preload of a corresponding spring element that preloads the longitudinal beam member into a preset adjustment position. This advantageously results in the longitudinal beam member following the beam with the attached slides, with the slides transmitting the force for adjusting the longitudinal beam member into the longitudinal beam member.If the substructure or the sled has been plastically deformed, this necessitates changing the spacing of the paired longitudinal beam members forming the guide in order to allow the sleds to roll or slide easily along the longitudinal beam members; this is achieved by adjusting the longitudinal beam members in a direction transverse to the displacement direction of the sleds.

[0043] According to a favorable embodiment, the longitudinal beam member is elastically deformable. If the longitudinal beam member can be elastically deformed, it can, when clamped at each end, assume precisely the position required to adapt to the spacing of a pair of slides associated with a beam, the force for adjusting the longitudinal beam member being generated from the residual stress of the longitudinal beam member.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the longitudinal member has at least one track for a vertically force-absorbing support roller of the carriage and at least one track for a horizontally force-absorbing guide roller of the carriage. The support roller is advantageously mounted about a horizontal or at least predominantly horizontal axis, and the guide roller is mounted about a vertical or at least predominantly vertical axis. The guide roller essentially transmits the force with which the longitudinal member is adjusted.It is advantageously provided that both the support roller and the guide roller are mounted around axes that have a vertical component and a horizontal component, so that, if it is further provided that the longitudinal member is acted upon from both sides with respect to its adjustment direction, both a tensile and a compressive movement can be introduced into the longitudinal member.

[0045] According to a first advantageous embodiment, the convertible top frame is designed as a sliding top that can be moved along a pair of opposing longitudinal members. The sliding top essentially has inverted U-shaped beams, each with a slider at its end that can be moved along a longitudinal member. The U-shaped beams are very robust because they support a voluminous structure and are therefore hardly deformed in a direction transverse or perpendicular to the direction of movement of the sliders. In this case, the longitudinal members can advantageously be adapted to the dimensions of the sliding top beams.

[0046] According to another preferred embodiment, the convertible top frame is designed as a sliding roof that can be moved along two longitudinal beam members supported by side structures, such as stanchions or rigid side walls. In this sliding roof configuration, the beams connecting the slides are elongated, roof-shaped, or U-shaped, but allow only slight deflection in the direction transverse or perpendicular to the direction of movement of the slides, so that the longitudinal beam members adapt to the dimensions of the slides spaced apart from the beam.

[0047] According to another preferred embodiment, the convertible top frame is designed as a sliding side wall that can be moved along two superimposed longitudinal beam members. In this case, taking into account the weight of the convertible top frame, the preload of the longitudinal beam members must be adjusted, so that, essentially, support with a spring against gravity is advantageous.

[0048] If both a roof opening and a side opening are to be closed on a substructure, it is advantageous to provide a first adjustable longitudinal member for the upper opening and a second adjustable longitudinal member for the side opening on one part of the canopy frame. These members can be adjusted independently of each other, as they are assigned to two independent covers. Alternatively, the longitudinal members can be adjustable within a common support frame, which is, for example, supported by stanchions against a loading platform of the substructure.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, folding aids for the tarpaulin are attached to the sleds. These aids lift or fold a tarpaulin attached to the canopy frame. The folding aids form a knee-like structure whose opening angle decreases when the sleds are brought together, thus lifting and folding the tarpaulin.

[0050] According to an alternative embodiment, adjacent slides along the longitudinal beam member can be coupled to each other via a hinge arrangement, which assumes its maximum extension when the structure is closed. In this case, the hinge arrangement can lift both rigid parts and parts designed as a sheet.

[0051] Advantageously, cover plates are hinged to the slides, forming a closed cover when the structure is closed and allowing them to be folded accordion-style when open. For this purpose, the cover plates, each hinged to the slide, can also be hinged to each other in pairs, so that the cover formed by the cover plates can be folded together. In the same way, an openable yet rigid roof or a side opening of the substructure can be covered, whereby the cover plates exhibit high rigidity, and it is correspondingly advantageous if the longitudinal beam member yields.

[0052] Advantageously, the force for adjusting the longitudinal beam members is transmitted by moving the slides along the longitudinal beam members, so that the longitudinal beam member is adjusted to the desired track gauge by the slides and the tie bars connecting the slides in pairs. In this way, manufacturing tolerances and the like can also be compensated for.

[0053] The convertible top frame can be operated manually for opening and closing, and its rigid design allows the force for moving the sliders along the longitudinal frame members to be applied unilaterally, for example, by pulling on a loop connected to the foremost slider. However, it is particularly preferred if the sliders are moved by a motorized drive, which benefits especially from the fact that the longitudinal frame members can adjust their position to accommodate the moved sliders.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment, the structure is characterized by the fact that the longitudinal member is infinitely adjustable in the adjustment direction, which is transverse and preferably perpendicular to the displacement direction of the slides, and which is also the main extension direction of the longitudinal member. The adjustment is free of locking mechanisms and possible without a prior unlocking process. In this respect, the longitudinal member can conveniently follow the convertible top frame of the sunroof at all times without the need for manual adjustments. The two opposing longitudinal members always follow the convertible top frame and any external influences, so that the structure always encounters only minimal resistance when opening or closing.

[0055] Advantageously, the adjustment direction of the longitudinal beam member is provided perpendicular to the displacement direction of the slides. The adjustment movement of the longitudinal beam member is stepless. Although the adjustment travel of the longitudinal beam member is limited, for example, by end stops, the adjustment position of the longitudinal beam member is free and cannot and does not need to be blocked or locked for a functioning floating adjustment.

[0056] Preferably, the adjustment direction of the longitudinal beam member and the displacement direction of the slides define a plane that corresponds to a plane of the opening of the substructure, which is to be closed by the superstructure.

[0057] The substructure includes, in particular, fixed walls, as is the case, for example, with a tipper body or a stationary housing. While the fixed walls are generally suitable for supporting superstructures, if the tarpaulin frame is also very rigid, the advantages of a floating adjustability of the longitudinal beam become particularly apparent.

[0058] The adjustability of the longitudinal member therefore does not include the ability to lock or secure the longitudinal member; rather, the longitudinal member can be adjusted at any time without having to assume a specific adjustment position.

[0059] According to one aspect of the invention, a commercial vehicle, building, container, or railway wagon is created that includes an opening superstructure as described above. Despite the very stable design of both the substructure and the opening superstructure, the longitudinal beam member, which is adjustable in the transverse direction to the displacement direction of the slides, ensures convenient and reliable operation, opening, and / or closing of the superstructure.

[0060] The substructure, which is to be equipped with an opening superstructure, is particularly advantageous. This trough-shaped structure could be, for example, a leakage containment basin for containers, a concrete basin, a silo, a sand or gravel bunker, or a garage. The superstructure protects the structure, especially against precipitation. If, for example, a free-flowing material such as seeds or gravel is to be placed into the trough-shaped structure, the superstructure is opened so that a dump truck can drive in and unload the material. Afterwards, the superstructure or the sliding roof is closed again, preventing permanent contamination with dust, plant spores, or precipitation. Until now, there were no suitable opening superstructures for continuous operation for such trough-shaped structures. Retrofitting existing structures with opening superstructures is now also possible.

[0061] According to one aspect of the invention, a method for relocating an openable structure, in particular an openable roof, an openable side wall or an openable cover, is provided, in which a first guide element and a second guide element are arranged on a substructure, in which parts of a frame of the structure can be relocated along one of the guide elements in a primary relocation direction in order to open or close an opening of the substructure, wherein the method is characterized in that the guide elements can be relocated independently of one another transversely to the primary relocation direction in a diversionary direction, which is preferably perpendicular to the relocation direction or at least contains a component perpendicular thereto.The method advantageously makes it possible to compensate for tolerances in the manufacture of the frame or frame parts, temperature-related tolerances caused by thermal expansion, as well as under- and over-dimensions resulting from bumps, dents and other damage to the substructure, so that the convertible top can be opened or closed with little effort even in the case of severe deformation or impairment of the substructure or frame, and at the same time a reliable covering of the substructure is achieved.

[0062] Advantageously, the displacement of the parts of the frame, in particular the slides, in the primary displacement direction causes the guide elements to be displaced in the alternative direction, so that tolerances, in particular in the distance between the first guide element and the second guide element, can be compensated for.

[0063] The first and second guide elements therefore define, due to their evasive movements in an essentially parallel direction, a virtually infinite number of possibilities to allow the displacement of the parts of the frame, so that even if the temperature of the load, the type of load, the weight of the load or the dynamic stress on the substructure is a factor, an opening of the substructure can always be released or closed with minimal effort.

[0064] Further advantages, properties, developments and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments and from the dependent claims.

[0065] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and by way of preferred embodiments. Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an opening structure according to the invention. Fig. 2 shows an enlarged section of the structure. Fig. 1 Fig. 3 shows a cross-section through the structure made of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 Fig. 4 shows a cross-section through an alternative embodiment of a structure. Fig. 5 shows a schematic top view of an alternative embodiment of a structure. Fig. 6 shows a cross-section with an alternative embodiment of a structure. Fig. 7 schematically shows a cross-section through part of a modified structure. Fig. 8 shows a cross-section through yet another modified structure. Fig. 9 shows a cross-section through a further alternative embodiment of a structure. Fig. 10 shows a cross-section through another preferred embodiment of an opening structure according to the invention. Fig. 11 shows a detail of the structure. Fig. 10 in a perspective view from the outside. Fig. 12 shows a section of the structure. Fig. 10 and 11 in a perspective view from the inside. Fig. 13 shows a cross-section through an alternative embodiment of an opening structure according to the invention. Fig. 14 shows a section of the structure. Fig. 13 in a perspective view from the outside. Fig. 15 shows a section of the structure. Fig. 13 and 14 in a perspective view from the inside. Fig. 16 shows a cross-section through another preferred embodiment of an openingable structure according to the invention.

[0066] Fig. 1 Figure 10 shows an opening structure, designed as a sliding roof for a semi-trailer forming the substructure. The substructure 12 comprises two rigid side walls 14, a rigid front wall 16 perpendicular to these, and a rear wall 18 containing two opening rigid doors, all of which are mounted on a single base surface of the substructure. The substructure 12 is very rigid overall, which is advantageous for transported loads, as it effectively transfers static and dynamic loads. It can be seen that the opposing side walls 14, which can also be opening, are additionally braced together with stiffening rods 20 to stabilize the substructure in its upper region as well.

[0067] The roof area, which forms an enclosed opening between the side walls 14, the front wall 16, and the rear wall 18, is covered by a sliding roof designated 22, which consists of a roof frame 24 and a tarpaulin 26 attached to it, indicated only by dashed lines. The roof frame 24 comprises a plurality of beams 28 designed as rigid bows, each of which is connected at its end to a slide 30 by means of rivets, the slide 30 being displaceable along a guide that includes a longitudinal member 32.

[0068] At its openable end, the convertible top frame 24 is equipped with an end section 31, which essentially comprises two beams 28 with attached slides 30. The beams 28 or the adjacent slides 30 are connected by a connecting rod to form a rigid part. When the superstructure 10 is opened, the end section 31 travels the entire length of the guide or longitudinal member 32 and successively pushes the other slides ahead of it as it opens. The end section 31 is very rigid because it must transmit a tensile force applied from one side to the entire frame while simultaneously preventing tilting.

[0069] Adjacent sleds 30 are each connected to one another by a tarpaulin folding device 34 designed as a folding plate, which is pivotally connected to the sleds 30 about an axis 34a. The tarpaulin folding device 34 has a flexible central section 34b that allows the tarpaulin folding device 34 to fold together like a knee when the sleds 30 are brought together. The tarpaulin 26 is attached to the sleds 30 and / or to the beams 28 and simultaneously guided over the flexible section 34b of the tarpaulin folding device 34, so that the tarpaulin 26 is folded accordion-like when adjacent sleds 30 are brought together along the longitudinal member 32.

[0070] It is possible, with respect to a longitudinal bisector of the substructure 14, i.e., the plane that runs centrally between the opposing side walls 14, to provide a hinge with an optional lifting bow instead of the flexible section, which additionally raises the tarpaulin 26. It is also possible to equip the sliding roof 22 only with lifting bows and to omit the beams 28. Furthermore, it is possible to design the folding panels 34, intended as tarpaulin folding aids, such that they extend over the entire width of the superstructure 10 and, if necessary, are also fixed to the beams 28, so that essentially a roof consisting of rigid parts is formed.In this case, instead of the flexible point 34b, a hinge arrangement is provided which allows the corresponding panels to be folded together, whereby, advantageously, an overlap is formed in the closed state of the superstructure 10 to prevent rain or the like from penetrating the interior of the substructure 12. Alternatively, instead of a beam 28 that essentially forms a straight line, the beam is U-shaped, so that the superstructure not only covers the substructure 12 at an opening but also completely encloses it.

[0071] The longitudinal member 32 consists of several sections 32a, 32b (see Fig. 2 The longitudinal member 32 is composed of sections that are connected to each other at their ends. The longitudinal member 32 has bores 36 that extend perpendicular to its length and are intended for connecting the longitudinal member 32 to a support frame 38. The longitudinal member 32 and the support frame 38 together form a guide for the slides, wherein, as will be explained in more detail below, the slides are displaceable along the longitudinal member 32 in their direction of displacement (x-direction), and the longitudinal member 32 is adjustable in a direction transverse to it on the support frame 38.

[0072] In Fig. 3 It can be seen that the longitudinal member 32 has a substantially square lower profile section, from which a substantially T-shaped upper section extends centrally. The bore 36 penetrates both vertical walls of the square section. A guide consisting of a support frame 38 and a longitudinal member 32 is provided at the top of both side walls 14.

[0073] The support frame 38 is also formed from several support frame sections 38a, 38b, which may, but need not, be axially connected to one another, with the support frame sections 38a, 38b being attached to the upper side of the side wall 14 of the substructure 12. It is also possible that the support frame 38 is formed integrally with the side wall or the substructure. The support frame 38 has a base section 40 which contains a bore 40a with which the support frame 38 can be screwed to the side wall 14. On its inner side, i.e., the side facing the interior of the substructure 12, the support frame 38 has a continuous, substantially vertical wall 42, so that the support frame 38 has a substantially L-shaped profile. At certain points of the support frame 38, in particular at the end of the support frame section 38a, 38b, a fold 44 is formed which is aligned parallel to the wall or the section 42.The side walls 42 and 44 limit the lateral movement of the longitudinal member 32, acting as stop surfaces. Instead of the folds 44, a continuous leg corresponding to the wall or leg 42 can also be provided. The area between adjacent folds 44 forms an opening through which rain or fallen cargo can be drained. Further openings can also be provided in the base 40 for this purpose, provided they lead to the area outside the cargo space. The supporting frame can also be designed as a single or multi-part component of the side wall 14.

[0074] A bolt 46 with a head 46a and a threaded section 46b passes through bores 44a and 42a in the legs 44 and 42, and is secured to the support frame 38 by a nut 48. The bolt 46 also passes through bore 36 in the longitudinal member 32, thus forming a coupling element that allows relative movement for connecting the support frame 38 to the longitudinal member 32. The bolt 46 simultaneously defines a guide for relative movement of the longitudinal member 32 transversely to the direction of extension of the support frame 38 and the longitudinal member 32. This advantageously ensures that the longitudinal member 32 can only move in a horizontal direction y perpendicular to the displacement direction x of the slides.At the same time, the bolt 46 ensures that the longitudinal member 32 cannot be lifted off the support frame 38 and thus off the side wall 14, so that the sliding roof 22 as a whole is fixed to the substructure 12 despite the sliding ability of the longitudinal member 32.

[0075] It can be seen that the slide 30 is connected to the upper T-shaped profile of the longitudinal member 32 via a predominantly vertically arranged support roller 50 rotatable about a horizontal axis 50a and a guide roller 52 rotatable about a predominantly vertical axis 52a, wherein the support roller 50 rolls predominantly on an outer upper surface of the square lower profile part of the longitudinal member 32 and is prevented from lifting upwards by the transverse line of the T-shaped profile, while the guide roller 52 rolls substantially on the upward line of the T-shaped profile. Because both rollers 50, 52 have an inclination to both the vertical and the horizontal, these forces can be introduced in both the y-direction and the z-direction, so that the support of the cover in the z-direction is carried out - predominantly by the support roller 50 - while the displacement of the longitudinal member 32 along the bolt 46 takes place in the y-direction.Two guide rollers 50 and two support rollers 52 are arranged on the carriage 30.

[0076] It can be seen that on the bolt 46 in the intermediate area between the legs 42, 44 on the one hand and the lower profile section of the longitudinal member 32 on the other hand, a spring element 54 designed as a coil spring is arranged, which together pre-tension the longitudinal member 32 into a substantially centered adjustment position, but allow the longitudinal member to be adjusted along the bolt 46 when an externally applied force is applied that overcomes the force of the spring elements 54.

[0077] When the convertible top frame is opened or closed, the slides 30 with the rigid end section 31 are moved along the longitudinal member 32. Due to the rigid design of the frame members 28, the distance specified by the convertible top frame 24 is maintained via the rollers 50, 52, causing the longitudinal members 32 to be adjusted along the bolts 46 in such a way that they are moved into an optimal position relative to the convertible top frame 24. For example, if the substructure 12 is placed on an inclined surface, this can already influence the optimal position of the longitudinal member 32.If the substructure 12 is also damaged or dented due to a load or thermally expanded due to the temperature of the load, the adjustability of the longitudinal member 32 is able to overcome any blockage that would otherwise occur, so that the superstructure can still be opened and closed and there is no jamming or tilting of the convertible top frame on the guide or the two longitudinal member members 32.

[0078] In Fig. 4 An alternative embodiment is described, using the same reference numerals as in the embodiment according to Fig. 1 bis 3 denote the same or structurally comparable parts.

[0079] In contrast to the previous embodiment, the longitudinal beam member 32 is not coupled to the support frame 138 via a bolt, but rests on the support frame 138. A coupling element is provided between the support frame 138 and the longitudinal beam member 32 such that the longitudinal beam member 32 cannot be lifted vertically. Such a coupling element can, for example, be a bolt extending the longitudinal beam member 32 downwards through a bore, which is caught and secured in an elongated hole in the support frame 138 extending in the y-direction. It can also be seen that the support frame 138 has a U-shaped cross-section, so that its legs simultaneously form stop surfaces for the displacement of the longitudinal beam member 32.

[0080] Fig. 5 shows a modification of the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 4 In a top view, the U-shaped support frame 138 accommodates the longitudinal member 32. A coupling element 60, designed as a link, is pivotally mounted in a joint 62 at the base of the support frame 138, while the other end of the link 60 is pivotally mounted in a joint 64 on the underside of the longitudinal member 32. The link 60 simultaneously connects the longitudinal member 32 to the support frame 138 and prevents the longitudinal member 32 from being lifted upwards. This eliminates the need for the support frame 138 to overlap the longitudinal member 32.At the same time, the double linkage of the link 60 about the axes 62 and 64 enables the longitudinal member 32 to be displaced in an adjustment direction that is predominantly in the y-direction. Advantageously, a first link 60 is provided in the front region of the longitudinal member 32 and a second link 60 in the rear region of the longitudinal member 32, which together with the support frame 138 and the longitudinal member 32 form a parallelogram. The proportion of the displacement of the slides 30 resulting from the adjustment of the longitudinal member 32 in the x-direction is small due to the small angles that the link 60 can assume.

[0081] Fig. 6 shows an alternative embodiment in which the same reference numerals are used as in the embodiment according to Fig. 1 bis 3 denote the same or structurally comparable parts.

[0082] In contrast to the embodiment according to Fig. 5 The longitudinal member 32 is coupled to the support frame 238 via a link 260, which is articulated about a horizontal axis 262 on the longitudinal member 32 and about a horizontal axis 264 at the base of the support frame 238, and extends predominantly vertically. The link 260 thus allows the longitudinal member 32 to be adjusted primarily in the y-direction and to a limited extent in the z-direction. At the same time, the link 260 also connects the longitudinal member 32 to the support frame 238, preventing the longitudinal member 32 from being lost by lifting off. It is advantageously provided that the pivot angle of the link 260 is only as large as is necessary for adjusting the longitudinal member 32, for example, by means of lateral legs of the support frame 238 or stop surfaces provided on the support frame 238. The 260 handlebar can also be very short.Since the middle adjustment position of the longitudinal member 32 is also the highest raised position, the longitudinal member 32 can be pre-tensioned into the middle position on its underside by a spring element resting on the base of the support frame 238. This spring element must be tensioned when the longitudinal member 32 is to be adjusted from the middle position. The spring element then provides resistance to deflection in both directions.

[0083] Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 The figures schematically show that there are various ways to couple the support frame 338, 338' and the longitudinal member 332, 332' such that the longitudinal member 332, 332' is adjustable in the y-direction and cannot be lifted in the z-direction. It is not necessary to define the support frame 338 as the part encompassing the longitudinal member 332, as shown in Fig. 7 To realize this, it is also possible for the longitudinal member 332' to wrap around the support frame 338'. It can be seen that any profiles can be connected to the longitudinal member 332, 332', which can be designed for the displacement of various slides, and that thus various covers can also be provided. If, for example, the guide roller is arranged between two walls of a chamber of the longitudinal member 332, it can transmit a force in the y-direction to the longitudinal member 332 without the guide roller having to transmit forces in the y-direction itself.

[0084] Fig. 9 shows a further embodiment, wherein the same reference numerals are used as in the embodiment according to Fig. 1 bis 3 denote the same or structurally comparable parts.

[0085] In contrast to the embodiment according to Fig. 1 bis 3 The longitudinal beam member 432 is designed such that, even after completion of the substructure 12, it can be inserted from the side, in this case from the outside, into a complementarily shaped support frame 438. For this purpose, the support frame 438 is open on one side and has bores 470 through which, after the longitudinal beam member 432 has been inserted, a bolt 472 with a head 472a passes and can be secured to the support frame 438 with a nut 474. The head 472a forms an outer stop for the displacement of the longitudinal beam member 432 in the y-direction, while the support frame 438 forms an inner stop for the displacement of the longitudinal beam member 432 in the y-direction. It is not necessary to provide spring elements for pre-tensioning the longitudinal beam member 432.

[0086] The advantage of the embodiment according to Fig. 9 The main advantage lies in the fact that the longitudinal member 432 does not need to be inserted axially into the support frame 438, which can be difficult due to the tight tolerances and deflection, but rather that it can be inserted from the outside. This is significantly more efficient, especially when only a section of the longitudinal member 432 needs to be replaced. At the same time, water and dirt can be easily channeled away.

[0087] Fig. 10 bis 12 show another alternative embodiment in which the same reference numerals are used as in the embodiment according to Fig. 1 bis 3 denote the same or structurally comparable parts.

[0088] In contrast to the embodiment according to Fig. 1 bis 3 The longitudinal beam member 32 is not movably connected to a support frame fixed to the substructure via a bolt, but rather the support frame 538 is fixedly connected to the longitudinal beam member 32. The longitudinal beam member 32, together with the support frame 538, is arranged to be adjustable in a direction y transverse to the displacement direction of the slides 30. As a result, the longitudinal beam member 32 can be moved back and forth transversely to the displacement direction of the slides 30 and thus follow the forces introduced by the bows or beams 28.

[0089] Advantageously, the side wall 14 has an upper chamber 14a, both of whose lateral boundary walls 14b are equipped with a horizontal bore through which a bolt 46 passes. The bolt 46 is part of the support frame 538, which comprises a stepped outer fitting 538a and a V-shaped bracket 538b. The bolt 46 passes through a bore in the fitting 538a and further through a bore in the bracket 538b, and is secured to the bracket by a nut 48. The fitting 538a and the bracket 538b are designed as sheet metal bending parts and have sufficient rigidity to prevent buckling under the load of the convertible top frame.

[0090] The bolt 46 is preferably stepped in the area where it contacts the bracket 538b to prevent the bolt 46 from moving relative to the fitting 538a and / or the bracket 538b. The bolt 46 is cylindrical and can move back and forth in the cylindrical bores in the side walls 14b of the chamber 14a. The bolt 46 and the bores thus ensure defined axial guidance.

[0091] The bracket 538b includes a Fig. 10 The base is shown at an angle, and two vertical legs are formed, the larger of which is penetrated by the screw bolt 46. A further connecting bolt 538c connects an upper end of the fitting 538a and the short leg of the bracket 538b to the longitudinal member 32 at its respective outwardly facing side walls, by passing the connecting bolt 538c through bores 36 in these parts and securing it with a nut 538d. The connecting bolt 538c allows no play between the longitudinal member 32 and the support frame 538, but it is possible to allow a small amount of play and thus additional movement in the y-direction.

[0092] As the slide 30 rolls along the T-shaped upper part of the longitudinal member 32, the longitudinal member 32, together with the support frame 538, shifts in the y-direction by moving the bolt 46, together with the support frame 538 and the longitudinal member 32, back and forth in the bores in the side walls 14b.

[0093] The advantage of this configuration is, in particular, that an existing side wall 14 does not need to be significantly raised, but can simply be fitted with the bolt 46 by drilling holes. This increases the overall height of the structure only minimally. Furthermore, the upper wall 14c of the substructure 14, supported by the side walls 14b of the chamber 14a, provides a bearing surface on which the longitudinal member 32, which maintains a defined distance from it, can rest under heavy loads, thus preventing deformation of the supporting frame 538.

[0094] It is understood that differently designed longitudinal beam members 32 can also be connected to the support frame 538. It is further understood that a plurality of support frames 538 are connected to the longitudinal beam member 32 and, accordingly, the chamber 14a or the bores provided therein each accommodate a screw bolt 46 axially displaceably at several points. This is particularly evident in Fig. 11 , that several connecting bolts 538c penetrate the longitudinal member 32 for connection with the support frame 538 or the fitting 538a and the bracket 538b, so that the relatively strong moment stress cannot lead to a deformation of the support frame 538.

[0095] Fig. 13 bis 15 show a modification of the embodiment according to Fig. 10 bis 12 , using the same reference numerals as in the embodiment according to Fig. 10 bis 12 denote the same or structurally comparable parts.

[0096] In contrast to the embodiment from Fig. 10 bis 12 Instead of a continuous screw bolt 46 being provided to connect the support frame 538 to the upper chamber 14a of the side wall 14, this function is distributed across two screw bolt stubs 46, 46a, of which the first screw bolt stub 46 slidably passes through a lateral wall 14b of the side wall 14 and is firmly connected to the fitting 538a, while the other screw bolt stub 46a slidably passes through the bracket 538b or a bore provided in the area of ​​its long leg.

[0097] The fitting 538a is firmly connected to the screw bolt stub 46, so that the movement in the y-direction is essentially achieved by a back-and-forth movement of the screw bolt stub 46 in corresponding bores in the lateral walls 14b of the side wall 14, of which two walls 14b are penetrated in the illustrated embodiment.

[0098] In contrast, the screw bolt stub 46a, which passes through the bracket 538b, is firmly connected to the wall 14b, for example by welding or riveting, and allows displacement in a bore in the leg of the bracket 538b along the screw bolt stub 46a. The displacement path is limited by the shorter of the two screw bolt stubs 46, 46a; however, a nut 48 is applied to one of the screw bolt stubs 46a to provide an end stop for the support frame 538.

[0099] It can be seen that in the present embodiment the inwardly pointing screw bolt stub 46a is part of the side wall 14b, since it is immovably connected to it, and does not belong to the support frame 538.

[0100] It can also be seen that instead of a cylindrical bolt, a bolt with a polygonal cross-section can also be used if the bore is designed in such a way that mutual guidance is provided.

[0101] Furthermore, it can be seen that the guide can be formed on both the moving part and the stationary part.

[0102] Fig. 16 shows another alternative embodiment in which the same reference numerals are used as in the embodiment according to Fig. 1 bis 3 denote the same or structurally comparable parts.

[0103] The side wall 14 has an upper chamber 14a enclosed by two boundary walls 14b. One upper wall 14o of the chamber 14a has a rounded or polygonal profile that does not provide a sufficiently wide base on which the longitudinal member 32 could rest to prevent impacts from above damaging the side wall 14. Therefore, a bracket 614 is attached to the side wall 14 in sections, providing a flat top or base section 640 in certain places.

[0104] A support frame section 638 is screwed, riveted, or welded to the inner boundary wall 14b of the side wall 14, extending beyond the maximum height of the upper wall 14o. A bore is provided in the support frame section 638 in the area of ​​this projection, through which a bolt 646 passes. The bolt 646 has a threaded section 646t at one end, which is slidable within the bore and can then be secured to the support frame section 638 by means of two nuts 48. The other end of the bolt 646 is formed with an angled end 646w, but can also be capped with a rivet head or a nut.

[0105] Before fixing the bolt 646 to the support frame piece 638, the longitudinal member 32 is slid onto the bolt by means of two bores 36. Furthermore, a spacer 647 is slid onto the bolt 646, which limits the adjustment range y of the longitudinal member 32 relative to the bolt, so that the lower section of the longitudinal member 32 is only adjustable between the angled end 646w and the spacer 647. The distance between the lower part of the longitudinal member 32 and the bracket 614 is quite small, so that in the event of a heavy load, e.g., from an impact, the bracket 614 supports the longitudinal member 32. It can be seen that the support frame piece 638 and the bolt coupled to it form a stable and easily retrofitted guide for adjusting the longitudinal member 32. It can also be seen that it is not necessary to support bolt 646 on both sides, but that support on one side is sufficient.It can also be seen that it is not necessary to provide the support frame as a continuous profile over the length of the longitudinal member 32, but that it is sufficient if the support frame is arranged section by section on the substructure.

[0106] Based on the Fig. 16 A simple and reliable method for equipping a substructure 12, in this case a side wall 14 of the substructure 12, with an opening superstructure 10 can be illustrated. For this purpose, a longitudinal beam member 32, which is continuously adjustable and non-lockable with respect to the substructure 12, is connected to the substructure by means of several bolts 346 and one or more support frame pieces 638, wherein the longitudinal beam member 32 has a defined free adjustment path y transversely or perpendicular to its main extension reaching into the plane of the paper. If a support frame 638, 646 with adjustable longitudinal beam member 32 is connected to each of the inner sides of the opposite side walls 14, the sliding roof 22 can be moved along the longitudinal beam members 32, which then adjust themselves so that the distance between the longitudinal beam members 32 corresponds to the dimensions of the sliding roof.

[0107] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the longitudinal member 32, alone or with attached parts, is adjustable on a bolt transverse to its main extent. It is understood that the bolt can also be connected to the longitudinal member, thus making the longitudinal member adjustable with respect to a bore. Furthermore, it is understood that although the bolt can be fixed at both ends, it is sufficient if it is fixed at only one end.

[0108] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the longitudinal member 32 is loaded on both sides towards a central adjustment position by means of helical springs 54. It is understood that other designs of spring members can also be used for this purpose, and that loading of the longitudinal member 32 on only one side is also possible. Furthermore, tension springs can be provided instead of compression springs. Spring members that are completely or almost completely relaxed in the central adjustment position of the longitudinal member are particularly advantageous, so that even if a spring member breaks, the longitudinal member 32 does not shift in the opposite direction.

[0109] The invention has been explained above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which the openable superstructure 10 closes the top and thus a roof of the substructure 12. It is understood that a side or rear opening of the substructure 12 can also be closed in a corresponding manner, whereby the displacement of the longitudinal member 32 then takes place essentially in the z-direction perpendicular to the displacement of the slides 30.

[0110] The invention has been explained above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which the convertible top frame has two adjustable longitudinal support members 32 on each side 14 of the substructure 12. It is understood that it may also be sufficient to equip only one side with an adjustable longitudinal support member 32, while the longitudinal support member on the other side is fixed and not adjustable.

[0111] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the adjustment of the longitudinal member 32 is carried out essentially in the y-direction, i.e., perpendicular to the displacement direction of the slides in the x-direction. It is understood that it is sufficient if the adjustment of the longitudinal member is carried out transversely to the displacement direction of the slides, and that, in particular, components of the two other directions can combine to form the adjustment direction.

[0112] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the substructure 12 has upright side and end walls 14, 16, 18. It is understood that the substructure 12 can also consist of a largely flat plane, for example the loading platform of a semi-trailer, and that the superstructure then essentially encloses a three-dimensional space, as is the case, for example, with sliding bar covers.

[0113] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the longitudinal member 32 is passively deflected in response to the forces introduced by the slides 30. It is understood that the forces introduced by the slides 30 can also be measured, and the longitudinal member is adjusted in its position by a motor in response to this measurement in order to assume an optimal position.

[0114] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the support frame 38 overlaps the longitudinal member 32 and thus prevents the longitudinal member 32 from lifting off. However, the longitudinal member can also overlap the support frame in the same way, as for example in Fig. 8 indicated, with the further advantage that no dirt or rainwater falling from above can enter the area between longitudinal member 32 and support frame 38.

[0115] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the relatively movable connection between the longitudinal beam member 32 and the substructure 14 is mediated by a support frame 38, 538 which is rigidly or movably coupled to one of the two components. It is understood that the support frame can also be formed as a single unit with one of the two parts, longitudinal beam member 32 and substructure 14, so that the support frame is no longer provided as a separate part. Accordingly, the provision of a support frame is preferred, but optional.

Claims

1. Openable superstructure for a substructure (12), such as a truck, trailer, semitrailer, railway wagon, dumper truck, or container, comprising a folding-top framework (24) to which, for example, a tarpaulin (26) made of weather-resistant material or a plurality of hingedly couplable wall elements can be connected, wherein the folding-top framework (24) has a plurality of carriages (30) which are displaceable along at least one guide (32, 38), wherein the guide comprises a longitudinal beam member (32) along which the carriages (30) are displaceable, characterized in that the longitudinal beam member (32) is adjustably arranged at least in sections in a direction (y) transverse to the displacement direction (x) of the carriages (30).

2. Openable superstructure according to claim 1, characterized in that the longitudinal beam member (32) is an elongated profile such as a rail.

3. Openable superstructure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide comprises a support frame (38; 138; 238; 538; 638).

4. Openable superstructure according to claim 3, characterized in that one of the substructure (12; 14) and the longitudinal beam member (32) is connected to the support frame (38; 138; 238; 538; 638), and that the other of the substructure (12; 14) and the longitudinal beam member (32) is adjustably coupled to the support frame (38; 138; 238; 538; 638) in a direction (y) transverse to the displacement direction (x) of the carriage (30).

5. Openable superstructure according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the longitudinal beam member (32) is received in the support frame (38; 138; 238).

6. Openable superstructure according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the support frame (538; 638) is adjustably connected to the substructure (12).

7. Openable superstructure according to any of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the support frame (38; 538) is fixed or formed integrally on the substructure (12) or on the longitudinal beam member (32).

8. Openable superstructure according to any of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the support frame (38) is connected to the longitudinal beam member (32) or to the substructure (12) via a coupling part (46; 46a; 60; 260; 646) which permits a relative movement.

9. Openable superstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that the coupling part is a bolt (46; 646) which is fixed to the support frame (38; 638) and along which the longitudinal beam member (32) is adjustable.

10. Openable superstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that the coupling part is a link (60; 260) which is hingedly connected to the support frame (138; 238) and is hingedly connected to the longitudinal beam member (32).

11. Openable superstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that the coupling part is a projection provided on one of the support frame (38) and the longitudinal beam member (32) which is movably inserted in a groove in the other of the support frame (38) and the longitudinal beam member (32).

12. Openable superstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that the coupling part is a rolling element or a sliding element provided on one of the support frame (38) and the longitudinal beam member (32).

13. Openable superstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that the coupling part is a bolt (46) which is fixed to the support frame (538) and which is adjustable relatively to the substructure (12; 14), in particular by means of a bore in the substructure (12; 14).

14. Openable superstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that the coupling part is a bolt (46a; 646) which is fixed to the substructure (12; 14) and with respect to which the support frame (538; 638) is adjustable, in particular by means of a bore in the support frame (538; 638).

15. Openable superstructure according to claim 8, characterized in that the coupling part is a nut provided on one of the support frame (38) and the longitudinal beam member (32), which is axially displaceable on a threaded rod, spindle rod, or ball screw spindle rod provided on the other of the support frame (38) and the longitudinal beam member (32).

16. Openable superstructure according to any of claims 8 to 15, characterized in that the coupling part is loaded by at least one pretensioning device in or against an adjustment direction of the longitudinal beam member (32).

17. Openable superstructure according to any of claims 3 to 16, characterized in that the support frame (38) overlaps at least a portion of the longitudinal beam member (32) and thus prevents the longitudinal beam member (32) from being lifted off the substructure (12).

18. Openable superstructure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the longitudinal beam member (32) is prestressed into an initial position by at least one spring element (54).

19. Openable superstructure according to claim 18, characterized in that a spring element (54) is arranged on both sides of the longitudinal beam member (32), and that the spring elements (54) prestress the longitudinal beam member (32) in a direction of a presettable initial position.

20. Openable superstructure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the direction transverse to the displacement direction (x) of the carriages (30) comprises a horizontal component (y) and / or a vertical component (z).

21. Openable superstructure according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the longitudinal beam member (32) has at least one track for a support roller (50) of the carriage (30) which absorbs vertical forces and at least one track for a guide roller (52) of the carriage (30) which absorbs horizontal forces, and that the force for the adjustment of the longitudinal beam members (32) is transmitted by the displacement of the carriages (30) along the longitudinal beam members (32).

22. Commercial vehicle, container or trough-shaped construction comprising an openable superstructure (10) according to any of the preceding claims.

23. Method for displacing an openable superstructure (10), in particular an openable roof, an openable side wall, or an openable cover, in which a first guide element (32) and a second guide element (32) are arranged on a substructure (12), in which parts (30) of a framework (24) of the superstructure (10) can be displaced along one of the guide elements (32) in a primary displacement direction (x) in order to open or close an opening in the substructure (12), characterized in that the guide elements (32) can be adjusted independently of one another transversely to the primary displacement direction (x) in a deviation direction (y).