Low platform bus with steering module

Abstract

The present invention provides a bus with a low and thin passenger platform (28), which is suitable for standing passengers and can also foresee seat positions. The bus is an articulated bus with two or more units. The bus includes a passenger cabin (58), a left steering module (30) and a right steering module (30). Each steering module (30) includes: a wheel with a rotation axis (32), a steering knuckle with an upper pivot joint (68U) and a lower pivot joint (68L), and a steering actuator (68) for pivoting the corresponding steering knuckle around the upper pivot joint and the lower pivot joint. The bus also includes a passenger platform (28), which defines the passenger cabin and laterally connects the left steering module and the right steering module, and the passenger platform is at least partially vertically arranged between the rotation axis (32) of the wheel and the lower pivot joint (68L). The present invention also provides a bus steering method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention belongs to the field of low platform buses. More precisely, the invention provides a bus with a low platform and a steering system. The invention also belongs to the field of bus steering methods. Background Art

[0002] Enlarging buses increases passenger capacity. As a result, the passenger compartment becomes larger and longer, and the trip becomes more comfortable, since there is more room for everyone. However, increasing the external dimensions of buses is limited by environmental constraints, especially by narrow streets with sharp turns. In addition, cities design shorter bus stops to reduce the impact on the street. Therefore, the turning capacity of the bus must be high enough.

[0003] Accessibility of buses is also an important aspect. It speeds up the stopping operation and reduces the stopping time. As a result, the improved buses can run their routes faster despite the increase in the number of passengers. The resulting transport service becomes more efficient.

[0004] Document EP 1 147 927 A1 discloses a front wheel suspension for a bus. The bus comprises two connecting parts with wheels and a single steering transmission connected to the two connecting parts.

[0005] Document DE 10 2015 209 595 A1 discloses a steering module having a steering knuckle in two parts which are rotated by means of a gear arrangement.

[0006] Technical issues to be resolved

[0007] The object of the present invention is to propose a bus which overcomes at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the object of the present invention is to optimize the mechanical strength of the bus. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, a bus is provided, in particular an articulated bus, comprising a passenger cabin, a left steering module and a right steering module, each steering module comprising: a wheel having a rotation axis; a steering knuckle having an upper pivot joint and a lower pivot joint; a steering actuator for pivoting the corresponding steering knuckle, in particular relative to a passenger platform and / or around the upper pivot joint and the lower pivot joint; the bus also comprises a passenger platform, which defines the passenger cabin and laterally connects the left steering module and the right steering module, the passenger platform being at least partially or completely vertically arranged between the rotation axis of the wheel and the lower pivot joint of the steering module.

[0009] Preferably, the passenger platform comprises a horizontal mid-plane at a mid-thickness of the passenger platform, the horizontal mid-plane being arranged between the rotation axis of the wheel and the lower pivot joint.

[0010] Preferably, the majority of the thickness of the passenger platform is disposed vertically between the axis of rotation of the wheel and the lower pivot joint.

[0011] Preferably, each of the left steering module and the right steering module comprises: an upper swing arm above the passenger platform, which is connected to the corresponding upper pivot joint; and / or a lower swing arm vertically at the level of the passenger platform, which is connected to the corresponding lower pivot joint.

[0012] Preferably, each steering knuckle comprises an inner body connected to the passenger platform and an outer body connected to the wheel, the inner and outer bodies being mounted rotatably relative to each other about a vertical axis of rotation.

[0013] Preferably, the steering actuator comprises a worm drive to pivot the outer body relative to the inner body, the worm drive comprising in particular a worm rotatably connected to the inner body and a worm wheel fixed to the outer body.

[0014] Preferably, the passenger platform projects laterally from the actuator of the left steering module to the actuator of the right steering module.

[0015] Preferably, at least one or each lower pivot joint comprises a horizontal pivot axis, the passenger platform being at least partially vertically disposed between the axis of rotation of the wheel and the horizontal pivot axis of the lower pivot joint.

[0016] Preferably, the upper and lower pivot joints comprise upper and lower spherical joints, respectively.

[0017] Preferably, the passenger platform comprises a transverse beam protruding transversely from the left steering module to the right steering module.

[0018] Preferably, the passenger platform comprises a constant thickness between and / or completely along the left and right turning modules.

[0019] Preferably, the bus comprises a longitudinal beam at the interface between the passenger platform and the steering module, the longitudinal beam being at least partially arranged vertically between the rotation axis of the wheel and the lower pivot joint.

[0020] Preferably, each of the left and right steering modules comprises a wheel housing from which the passenger platform protrudes and / or extends longitudinally to a longitudinal end of the wheel housing.

[0021] Preferably, the passenger platform comprises a bottom surface below the axis of rotation of the wheel.

[0022] Preferably, at least one steering knuckle or the steering knuckle is vertically movable relative to the passenger platform between an upper position and a lower position.

[0023] Preferably, the passenger platform comprises a top surface defining the passenger cabin, wherein in a lower position the top surface is above at least one or each rotation axis, and / or in an upper position the top surface is below at least one or each rotation axis, and / or in the lower position the bottom surface is above at least one lower pivot joint and in the upper position in particular below said lower pivot joint.

[0024] Preferably, in the upper position the at least one lower pivot joint is vertically at the level of the thickness of the passenger platform and / or the distance D between the upper and lower positions of the at least one steering module is greater than the vertical thickness TH of the passenger platform.

[0025] Preferably, the left and right steering modules form a first pair of steering modules, the bus further comprising a second pair of steering modules, the first and second pair being in particular identical, the passenger platform comprising a flat upper face connecting the first pair to the second pair.

[0026] Preferably, the longitudinal distance between the right wheels and / or between the left wheels is smaller than the distance D between the upper position and the lower position of at least one steering module.

[0027] Preferably, between the left and right turning modules the passenger platform protrudes over at least a large part of the width of the bus, in particular over at least 1.5 m; and the width of the bus, optionally of the passenger platform, is at most 2.55 m.

[0028] Preferably, the passenger platform forms a panel, in particular a panel with constant thickness.

[0029] Preferably, the passenger platform comprises a lower half arranged vertically between the at least one axis of rotation and the associated lower pivot joint.

[0030] Preferably at least one or each actuator is an electric actuator or a power conversion actuator.

[0031] Preferably, the passenger platform is disposed vertically between the horizontal pivot axis of the lower pivot joint and the at least one axis of rotation.

[0032] Preferably, the entire thickness of the passenger platform is arranged vertically between the rotation axis of the wheel and the lower pivot joint, in particular in the lower position.

[0033] The passenger platform forms a transverse partition between the left and right steering modules.

[0034] Preferably, the steering actuator is fixed to the passenger platform and / or the wheel housing.

[0035] Preferably, the passenger platform comprises an integral element protruding laterally from the left steering module to the right steering module.

[0036] Preferably, the ground clearance below the passenger platform is at most 25 cm or at most 18 cm, for example in the lower position and in the upper position, respectively.

[0037] Preferably, the height of the passenger platform is at most 37 cm and / or at most 25 cm, in particular in the driving configuration and the riding configuration of the bus, respectively, and / or in the lowered position and in the upper position.

[0038] Preferably, the distance D between the upper position and the lower position of at least one of the or each steering modules is in the range of 5 cm to 15 cm, preferably in the range of 10 cm to 12 cm.

[0039] Preferably, the lower pivot joint includes a lower end portion which, in the lower position, is below the passenger platform.

[0040] Preferably, the passenger platform comprises a main height portion, in particular an upper surface, above which, in the upper position, the axis of rotation of the at least one wheel is located.

[0041] Preferably, the wheel has a diameter of at most 75 cm and a width W of 25 cm to 30 cm.

[0042] Preferably, each of the left and right steering modules is adapted for an angular movement of the steering knuckle relative to the passenger platform of at least 50° or at least 80°.

[0043] Preferably, the longitudinal distance between the right wheels and between the left wheels is smaller than the vertical thickness of the passenger platform and / or the lateral width of the wheels.

[0044] Preferably, the lower pivot joints each include a centre point at a lower position below the passenger platform.

[0045] Preferably, the ground clearance is greater than the vertical thickness of the passenger platform.

[0046] Preferably, the vertical thickness of the passenger platform may be an average vertical thickness and / or a maximum vertical thickness of the passenger platform.

[0047] Preferably, the inner diameter of the rim of the wheel may be greater than the distance from the upper pivot joint to the lower pivot joint.

[0048] Preferably, the left steering module and the right steering module are symmetrical.

[0049] Preferably at least one or each pivot joint comprises: two ball joints or a ball joint and a hinge joint.

[0050] Preferably, the upper position and the lower position of each steering module or the steering modules or at least one steering module are extreme relative positions.

[0051] Preferably, the worm gear is above the passenger platform.

[0052] Preferably, the or each steering actuator is above the bottom surface.

[0053] Preferably, the or each steering actuator is secured to and / or accommodated in the passenger platform; and / or is at least partially accommodated in a corresponding wheel housing.

[0054] Preferably, the vertical thickness of the passenger platform intersects the or each steering actuator vertically, in particular over their entire height.

[0055] Preferably, at least one or each actuator is an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator.

[0056] Preferably at least one or each actuator is a powered actuator, and / or an actuator which converts energy of a first kind into energy of another kind.

[0057] Preferably, the passenger platform is between the actuators of the left and right modules.

[0058] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a bus comprising a passenger compartment, a passenger platform defining the passenger compartment and physically connecting a left steering module to a right steering module, each steering module comprising:

[0059] o a wheel having an axis of rotation above a bottom surface of the passenger platform,

[0060] o a steering knuckle having an upper pivot joint and a lower pivot joint and arranged below the passenger platform,

[0061] oSteering actuator for pivoting the steering knuckle about the upper and lower pivot joints.

[0062] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a bus comprising a passenger compartment, a passenger platform defining the passenger compartment and physically connecting a left steering module to a right steering module, each steering module comprising:

[0063] o a wheel having an axis of rotation above a bottom surface of the passenger platform,

[0064] o Steering knuckle, having an upper pivot joint and a lower pivot joint,

[0065] oSteering actuator for pivoting the steering knuckle about the upper and lower pivot joints.

[0066] The knuckle is vertically movable relative to the passenger cabin between an upper position and a lower position, in particular in the upper position, in which the lower pivot joint is vertically at the level of the passenger platform; and / or in the lower position, in which the rotation axis of the wheel is arranged above the passenger platform.

[0067] Another aspect of the invention is to provide a bus steering method, the bus optionally being a bus according to the invention, wherein the method comprises the steps of: sending a first steering instruction to a steering actuator of a first steering module, and sending the first steering instruction to a steering actuator of a second steering module, the first instruction and the second instruction being different and / or being sent at different times. The features "first" and "second" may designate a left one and a right one.

[0068] Another aspect of the present invention provides a bus steering method, wherein the bus includes a passenger cabin, a left steering module and a right steering module, each steering module including: a wheel with a rotation axis; a steering knuckle with an upper pivot joint and a lower pivot joint; a steering actuator for pivoting the corresponding steering knuckle; the bus also includes a passenger platform, which defines the passenger cabin and is between the left steering module and the right steering module, and the passenger platform is at least partially vertically arranged between the rotation axis of the wheel and the lower pivot joint of the steering module. The bus steering method includes the following steps: sending a left steering command to the steering actuator of the left steering module; and transmitting a right steering command to the steering actuator of the right steering module, wherein the left command and the right command are different and / or sent at different times, and the bus is particularly a bus according to the present invention.

[0069] Preferably, according to the bus steering method according to claim 14, the method further comprises the following steps: transmitting a second left turn command to the steering actuator of the left steering module, and transmitting a second right turn command to the steering actuator of the right steering module, wherein the second left command and the second right command are the same and / or simultaneous.

[0070] Different aspects of the present invention may be combined with each other. In addition, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, the preferred options of each aspect of the present invention may be combined with other aspects of the present invention.

[0071] Technical advantages of the present invention

[0072] The invention provides a solution which optimizes mechanical strength and interior space in the passenger compartment. The invention provides a thin passenger platform which forms a robust connection between the steering modules at a low position. Thus, ground clearance is maintained while maintaining a high passenger capacity. Mechanical stresses on other parts of the structure are less.

[0073] The vertical positioning of the wheels relative to the passenger platform allows to arrange the lower pivot joint closer to the height of said passenger platform. As a result, the vertical distance between the lower pivot joint and the platform is reduced and the mechanical stresses are transmitted to each other via shorter mechanical paths. The bending stresses in the passenger platform can be reduced. This solution becomes even more advantageous when the cylinder acts on the lower swing arm. In fact, in this configuration, the lower swing arm bears a large part of the bus load.

[0074] The solution proposed by the present invention remains favorable for multiple wheels, since the load is distributed around the passenger platform. This approach allows to reduce the size of the wheels and the height of the wheel housings. Therefore, the bus structural design is less constrained by the integration of the wheels, and the platform can maintain a constant thickness; this is also a technical advantage of the present invention. The passenger platform can easily maintain a flat top surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] Several embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by the accompanying drawings, which do not limit the scope of the present invention, in which:

[0076] Figure 1 Provides a schematic diagram of a side view of a bus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a bird's-eye view of a bus structural portion according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is provided;

[0078] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a side view of a bus structural portion according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is provided;

[0079] Figure 4 Provided is a schematic diagram of a longitudinal view of a steering module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0080] Figure 5 Provides a schematic diagram of a lateral view of a steering module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 6 Provides a schematic diagram of a longitudinal view of a steering module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0082] Figure 7 A schematic diagram is provided showing a block diagram of a bus steering method according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] This section further describes the present invention in detail based on preferred embodiments and drawings. In different embodiments of the present invention, similar reference numerals will be used to describe similar or identical concepts.

[0084] It should be noted that features described herein for the specific embodiment described may be combined with features of other embodiments unless expressly mentioned to the contrary. In order to focus on features that are unique to the present invention, features known in the art will not be described in detail. For example, although not explicitly referenced on the drawings or not referenced in the specification, the bus according to the present invention is obviously driven by an engine coupled to the wheels.

[0085] By convention, the word "longitudinal" may be defined to refer to the longitudinal direction and may correspond to the main driving direction of the bus. The word "transverse" may refer to the transverse direction and may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. It is understood that these directions are not strictly used to define the present invention. In fact, each direction used below may include a variation of up to 10° or 5° or 2° relative to the strict sense. Those skilled in the art will understand that the vertical axis of rotation may be inclined relative to the vertical direction.

[0086] The words "inside" and "outside" can be thought of in a lateral sense. "Inside" may refer to the center, while outside refers to the surroundings. It is understood that the beam is horizontal. The word "horizontal" can be thought of relative to the ground, especially relative to the flat ground on which the bus is located.

[0087] In the present invention, an actuator is a machine that moves or controls another part in response to an input.

[0088] Figure 1 A vehicle for mass transportation is shown. The vehicle is suitable for transporting passengers in a city and can transport about one hundred passengers, for example one hundred and twenty passengers. The vehicle can be a bus 2, in particular an electric bus 2. The bus 2 can include an electric engine and a battery (not shown) for powering the electric engine.

[0089] The bus 2 can be an articulated bus. It can include a first unit 4 and a second unit 4 (partially shown). Each unit 4 can form a body and / or can form a rigid element. Each unit 4 can be a trailer and / or a tractor. Each unit 4 can be self-supporting. The units 4 can be similar or identical. These units 4 can be connected by a connection that enables the units 4 to rotate relative to each other, for example by a hinge connection 6. In the current illustrative example, only two units 4 are shown, but it is contemplated in the present invention that the electric bus 2 includes three, four or more units 4, which are articulated to each other by hinge connections 6. Then, the passenger capacity may exceed 200.

[0090] Buses formed from a single unit are also contemplated.

[0091] Each unit 4 may comprise a plurality of wheels 8 engaging with the ground G. Pairs of symmetrical wheels 8 may form axles, for example four axles for each unit 4. The axles and therefore the wheels 8 may be distributed along the length of the bus 2. At least one pair of wheels is formed by steerable wheels. Optionally, each wheel 8 of the bus 2 or of at least one unit 4 is a steerable wheel. The steerable wheels may be part of a steering module. The wheels 8, in particular the steerable wheels, may be drive wheels.

[0092] The bus 2 may include a structure. The structure may include a roof 10 and / or a passenger platform 28 and / or side walls 14. The side walls 14 may be exterior walls. Two laterally opposing side walls 14 may extend from the roof 10 to the passenger platform 28. The side walls 14 may also protrude longitudinally from one longitudinal end 16 to an opposite longitudinal end 16. They may form the body of the bus 2. They may laterally cover the wheels 8.

[0093] For example, the side wall 14 may enclose a wheel housing 18. The wheel housing 18 may receive the wheels 8 in pairs in particular. Alternatively, at least one or each wheel housing 18 may receive two longitudinally spaced wheels 8. The wheel housing 18 may form a box that is open downwards.

[0094] The side walls 14 may receive windows 20. Optionally, a door 22 is arranged in one of the two side walls 14, in particular between the windows 20. The roof 10 may support equipment, such as an air conditioning system 24, as well as other systems.

[0095] Figure 2 A bird's eye view of a bus unit, more precisely of a part of a structure 26 of a bus unit 4 is shown. For example, the part generally represents half of the unit 4. A passenger platform 28 and steering modules 30 are shown. Two left steering modules 30 and two right steering modules 30 are connected in pairs via the passenger platform 28. In the present figure, four steering modules 30 are connected to each other via the passenger platform 28. However, any other number is conceivable.

[0096] The wheels 8 have an axis of rotation 32. Depending on the configuration of the steering module 30, the axes of rotation may be parallel. The wheels 8 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis 34, in particular in the middle of the unit 4. Each wheel may include a hub receiving a rim. The rim supports a tire inflated thereon. The inflation pressure of the tire shapes the flat tire against the ground G.

[0097] Each steering module 30 may comprise an actuator 36 associated with the corresponding wheel 8 in order to cause it to rotate; thus, the driving direction of the deflection unit 4 .

[0098] The structure 26 may define at least one or several wheel housings 18. Each wheel housing may receive at least one wheel 8, and possibly two wheels 8. Transverse bars 38 may delimit the wheel housings 18 in the longitudinal direction. The wheel housings 18 may also be defined by transverse outer beams 40. The transverse outer beams 40 may be above the wheels 8, in particular at a distance from the transverse bars 38.

[0099] The passenger platform 28 may include at least one integral element protruding from the left steering module 30 to the right steering module 30. For example, the passenger platform 28 may include a beam, in particular a transverse beam 42, which protrudes from the left steering module 30 to the right steering module 30 in a transversely opposite position. Two transverse beams 42 may be arranged at the longitudinal ends of the wheel housing 18, for example at the longitudinal level of the transverse bar 38.

[0100] The passenger platform 28 may include at least one longitudinal beam 44 or two longitudinal beams 44. The longitudinal beams 44 may form a lateral and / or vertical interface 46 with the wheel housing 18. The longitudinal beams 44 may protrude along the entire unit 4 and may each protrude along eight wheels 8. The longitudinal beams 44 may separate the transverse beams 42 from the wheels 8 and / or the transverse bars 38.

[0101] When the rotation axis 32 of the wheels 8 is parallel to the transverse direction TR, the longitudinal distance 56 between the wheels 8 is smaller than the width of the wheels 8. The longitudinal distance may be measured relative to the longitudinal ends of the wheels 8. The reduced longitudinal distance 56 improves safety because it prevents intrusion therebetween. Passengers behind the wheels 8 will be protected against side impacts.

[0102] Between the steering modules 30, and / or between the wheel housings 18, the passenger platform 28 extends over at least half the width of the bus. The distance between the steering modules 30 and, respectively, the distance between the wheel housings 18 may be at least 1.5 m; preferably, the width of the passenger platform 28 may be in the range of 2.00 m to 2.55 m, inclusive. Thus, the remaining passage between the wheel housings allows two wheelchairs to cross each other.

[0103] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a side view of a structure 26 forming part of a bus is provided. The part may correspond to Figure 2 The portion shown.

[0104] The wheel housing 18 receives the two wheels 8. The wheel housing 18 can be a left or right wheel housing. Its upper end is delimited by a transverse outer beam 40, while the longitudinal ends are formed by transverse rods 38. The latter can be connected to the transverse outer beams 40 by vertical rods 48. The passenger platform 28, in particular the longitudinal beams 44, is arranged in the background, in particular behind the wheels 8.

[0105] The wheels 8 can move relative to the passenger platform 28. The wheels 8 can move between an upper position (presently represented by solid lines) and a lower position (represented by dotted lines) relative to the passenger platform 28. These positions or configurations can correspond to a riding position in which the passenger platform 28 is lowered to facilitate entry into the passenger cabin, and a driving position in which the ground clearance 50 is increased to avoid damaging obstacles on the ground G, respectively.

[0106] In the presently illustrated upper position, the rotation axis(es) 32 may be above the passenger platform 28. The rotation axis(es) 32 may be vertically away from the passenger platform 28, and thus away from its top surface 52, which may form a major elevation 52L thereon. The major elevation 52L may correspond to an average level of the floor surface of the passenger platform 28. The rotation axis(es) 32 may be vertically at the level of the passenger cabin 58.

[0107] In the lower position of one or more wheels 8, the rotation axis(es) 32 may be vertically at the level of the passenger platform 28. The rotation axis(es) 32 may be vertically at the level of the longitudinal beams 44 and / or transverse beams (not shown). The rotation axis(es) 32 may be below the main horizontal plane 52L. The rotation axis(es) 32 may be vertically above the bottom surface 54 of the passenger platform 28.

[0108] The distance D between the upper position and the lower position may be greater than the thickness TH of the passenger platform 28. The distance D may be measured at the top of the wheel 8. The thickness TH may be constant along one or both wheels 8. The thickness may be constant TH along the entire wheel housing 18 and / or along most of the length of the unit 4.

[0109] The longitudinal distance 56 between the right wheels and between the left wheels is less than the distance D between the upper position and the lower position. The longitudinal distance 56 can be measured within a pair of side wheels 8 on the left and / or right side of the bus. The longitudinal distance 56 can be measured in the upper position and / or the lower position.

[0110] Figure 4 A schematic diagram is provided of a longitudinal view of the steering module 30. The steering module 30 is currently represented in a lower position, a representation of the upper position being provided by an illustrative rotation axis 32I of the wheel 8. The distance D shows the course of the rotation axis 32 between the lower position and the upper position.

[0111] The structure 26 can be roughly symmetrical with respect to the sagittal plane. The sagittal plane may include a longitudinal axis L and a vertical axis V. The structure 26 may include two symmetrical steering modules 30. The structure 26 may include four steering modules 30, defining a rectangle between them. For the sake of brevity, the following description will be made about one of the steering modules 30, but it can be applicable to all steering modules. Then, the right steering module 30 currently represented can be connected to the left steering module (not shown) through the passenger platform 28. The current embodiment can be applied to other steering modules or each steering module 30 of the bus.

[0112] A seat 60 is shown having a seat base 62 and a backrest 64 protruding from the seat base 62. The seat 60 can accommodate a passenger, thereby forming a seating position. The seat 60 is arranged above the steering module 30 and above the wheels 8. The wheel cover 18 can be arranged below the seat 60. The transverse outer beam 40 can span longitudinally above the wheels 8. The wheel cover 18 can separate the passenger compartment 58 from the wheels 8.

[0113] The structure 26 defines a ground clearance 50, which may be greater than the thickness TH of the passenger platform 28. The transverse beams 42 and the longitudinal beams 44 may have the same vertical thickness TH. The distance D between the upper position and the lower position may be greater than the thickness TH of the passenger platform 28, particularly the average thickness or the maximum thickness.

[0114] The steering module 30 may include a steering knuckle 68. The steering knuckle 68 may encompass an upper pivot joint 68U and a lower pivot joint 68L. The rotation axis 32 may be vertically disposed between these pivot joints (68U; 68L).

[0115] The steering module 30 may include an actuator 36 suitable for pivoting the wheel 8 about a substantially vertical axis of rotation 72. The actuator 36 may be arranged within the wheel housing 18 and / or vertically horizontal to the passenger platform 28. The passenger platform 28 causes the actuator 36 of the right steering module 30 to protrude and / or separate from the actuator of the left steering module (not shown). The passenger platform 28 may be a physical link between these actuators 36 and may fix them. The thickness TH of the passenger platform 28 may be constant from the right steering module 30 to the left steering module, which is in particular laterally relative and / or symmetrical. The thickness TH between the opposing wheel housings 18 may be constant.

[0116] The passenger platform 28 may include a top surface 52 and a bottom surface 54 that may define a vertical thickness TH. The passenger platform 28 may have a vertical middle portion M, for example, in the middle of its thickness, and a horizontal middle plane 78 passing through the vertical middle portion M. The passenger cabin 58 may start vertically from the top surface 52, which may form its floor surface.

[0117] The steering module 30 may include a swing arm 80 to connect the steering knuckle 68 to the structure 26, in particular to the passenger platform 28. The lateral inner end of the swing arm 80 may be connected to the passenger platform 28 via an inner pivot connection 82. The inner pivot connection 82 may have a horizontal swing axis 84, in particular a colinear swing axis 84. The upper swing arm 80 and the lower swing arm 80 may be connected to the upper pivot joint 68U and the lower pivot joint 68L, respectively, and then the steering knuckle 68 rests on the passenger platform 28 while allowing vertical movement. A system, such as a suspension system and / or a hydraulic cylinder, may exert a force on the lower swing arm 80.

[0118] In the lower position, the rotation axis 32 of the wheel 8 may be within the thickness TH of the passenger platform 28, for example in the upper half. The rotation axis 32 may be below the top surface 52 and / or above the bottom surface 54. The top surface 52 may be the uppermost surface of the passenger platform 28. The bottom surface 54 may be the lowermost surface of the passenger platform 28. The main horizontal plane 52L may be above the rotation axis 32.

[0119] In the lower position, the lower pivot joint 68L may be below the passenger platform 28. It may be below the bottom surface 54 in particular. Each pivot joint (68L; 68U) may have a center point 68C. The center point 68C may be disposed on the vertical rotation axis 72. Thus, the actuator 36 may rotate the knuckle 68 and, therefore, the wheel 8 about the center point 68C.

[0120] Optionally, at least one of the pivot joints or the pivot joints ( 68L; 68U) is a ball joint. They thus allow rotation relative to the vertical axis and the longitudinal axis of the knuckle 68 .

[0121] In the lower position, the center point 68C of the lower pivot joint 68L can be below the passenger platform 28. In the lower position, the center point 68C of the lower pivot joint 68L can be vertically away from and / or below the bottom surface 54. Other types of pivot joints 68 can have a center point 68C to which these features apply.

[0122] In the lower position, the horizontal midplane 78 may be below the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and / or above the lower pivot joint 68L; for example, above the center point 68C of the lower pivot joint 68L. The horizontal midplane 78 may be located vertically between the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L.

[0123] In the lower position, the vertical thickness TH of the passenger platform 28 may be at least partially or completely between the rotation axis 32 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L. A portion of at least half of the passenger platform thickness, in particular a horizontal layer, such as the lower half or the middle half, may be disposed between the rotation axis 32 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L. This arrangement may optimize the vertical offset of the steering knuckle 68 relative to the passenger platform 28.

[0124] Thus, mechanical stresses in the swing arm 80 may be reduced. A reduction in stresses is also observed in the pivot joints 68U and 68L and the inner pivot connection 82; although the steering motion is maintained. In addition, it may be easier to manage parasitic rotation of the wheel 8 when the swing arm 80 pivots. Bending stresses within the passenger platform 28 may be less restrictive in terms of mechanical strength. Thus, the present invention enables the use of a thin platform while reducing stresses therein. The proposed configuration may reduce compressive stresses in the upper half relative to traction stresses in the lower half, which improves tolerance to fatigue caused by repeatedly applied loads or impacts.

[0125] In the upper position, the illustrative axis of rotation 32I of the wheel 8 may be above the passenger platform 28, and in particular, above the top surface 52. The axis of rotation 32 may be vertically separated from and away from the top surface 52. In the upper position, the lower pivot joint 68L may be vertically horizontal with the passenger platform 28 and / or above the bottom surface 54. The illustrative axis of rotation 32I of the wheel 8 may be above the main horizontal plane 52L.

[0126] In the lower position, the lower swing arm 80 can be partially horizontal with the passenger platform 28. In the upper position, the lower swing arm 80 can be completely within the vertical thickness TH of the passenger platform 28.

[0127] The distance D between the upper position and the lower position may be greater than a thickness TH of the passenger platform 28 , in particular an average thickness or a maximum thickness.

[0128] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a lateral view of the steering module 30 is provided. The steering module is shown from inside the passenger compartment 58. The steering module 30 is currently shown in a lower position, a representation of the upper position is provided by an illustrative rotation axis 32I of the wheel 8. The distance D shows the course of the rotation axis 32 between the lower configuration and the upper configuration.

[0129] The structure 26 may be generally symmetrical with respect to a sagittal plane. The sagittal plane may include a longitudinal axis L and a vertical axis V. The structure 26 may include two symmetrical steering modules 30. The structure 26 may include four steering modules 30 defining a rectangle between them. For the sake of brevity, the following description will be made with respect to one of the two or four steering modules 30, but it may apply to all steering modules. The current embodiment may be applied to other steering modules or each steering module 30 of a bus or, respectively, to a unit.

[0130] A seat 60 having a seat base 62 is shown. The seat 60 can accommodate a passenger, thereby forming a seating position. The seat 60 is arranged above the steering module 30 and above the wheel 8. The wheel cover 18 can be arranged below the seat 60. The transverse outer beam 40 can span longitudinally above the wheel 8. The wheel cover 18 can separate the passenger cabin 58 from the wheel 8.

[0131] The structure 26 defines a ground clearance 50, which may be greater than the thickness TH of the passenger platform 28. The transverse beams 42 and the longitudinal beams 44 may have the same thickness. They may have the same vertical thickness TH. The distance D between the upper position and the lower position may be greater than the thickness TH. The thickness considered may be the average thickness or the maximum thickness of the passenger platform 28.

[0132] The steering module 30 may include a steering knuckle 68. The steering knuckle 68 may include an upper pivot joint 68U at an upper end and a lower pivot joint 68L at a lower end. The rotation axis 32 may be vertically disposed between these pivot joints (68U; 68L). The pivot joints (68U; 68L) may be within the height of a rim 74 of the wheel 8. The inner radius of the rim 74 may be greater than the distance between the rotation axis 32 and each pivot joint (68U; 68L).

[0133] Each steering module 30 may comprise an actuator 36 adapted to pivot the wheel 8 about a vertical axis of rotation 72. The actuator 36 may manipulate the wheel angle. The steering knuckle 68 may comprise a swivel joint 76, in particular a ball joint, to which the actuator 36 is connected. The actuator 36 may be arranged vertically horizontal to the wheel housing 18; at least partially. Providing a steering actuator 36 at each wheel 8 allows to specifically control the wheel pair. For example, it allows to drive the bus along a curve or diagonally. Thus, the bus may be driven like a "crab"; in particular in a sideways direction, which is convenient for narrow bus stops.

[0134] The steering module 30 can define at least one pair of steering modules 30 (only one is shown), namely a left steering module and a right steering module. In each pair, the steering modules 30 are laterally opposite and / or symmetrical. In at least one pair, the passenger platform 28 spans and / or forms a gap laterally between the actuator 36 of the right steering module 30 and the actuator of the left steering module. The passenger platform 28 can be a lateral link between these actuators 36 to secure them to the structure 26. The thickness TH of the passenger platform 28 can be constant from the right steering module 30 to the left steering module. The thickness TH between the opposing wheel covers 18 can be constant.

[0135] The passenger platform 28 may include a top surface 52 and a bottom surface 54, which may define a vertical thickness TH and may also define the vertical thickness of the beam (42:44). The passenger platform 28 may have, for example, a vertical middle portion M at the same distance from the surfaces 52 and 54, and a horizontal middle plane 78 passing through the vertical middle portion M. The passenger cabin 58 may start vertically from the top surface 52, which may form a passenger floor.

[0136] The steering module 30 may include an upper swing arm (not shown for clarity) and a lower swing arm 80. The lower swing arm 80 links the steering knuckle 68 to the structure 26, and in particular to the passenger platform 28. The steering knuckle 68 may be connected to the transverse beam 42, in particular through the longitudinal beam 44. The transverse inner end of the swing arm 80 may be connected to the passenger platform 28 by an inner pivot connection 82. The inner pivot connection 82 may have a common swing axis 84. The swing axis 84 may be substantially horizontal. The upper swing arm 80 and the lower swing arm 80 may be connected to the upper pivot joint 68U and the lower pivot joint 68L, respectively. Their pivoting movement causes the steering knuckle 68 and the wheel 8 to move vertically. Each steering module 30 may include a stopper for limiting the vertical movement of the steering knuckle 68 between an upper position and a lower position. The stopper may engage the swing arm 80.

[0137] A system, such as a suspension system and / or a hydraulic cylinder, may exert a force on the lower swing arm 80 .

[0138] In the lower position, the rotation axis 32 of the wheel 8 may be enclosed in the vertical thickness TH of the passenger platform 28, for example in the upper half of the passenger platform 28. The rotation axis 32 may be below the top surface 52 and / or above the bottom surface 54. The top surface 52 may be the uppermost surface of the passenger platform 28. The main horizontal plane 52L may be above the rotation axis 32.

[0139] In the lower position, the lower pivot joint 68L may be below the passenger platform 28. It may in particular be located at a lower level than the bottom surface 54. It may be closer to the ground G than the bottom surface 54. Thus, the actuator 36 may control the orientation of the knuckle 68 relative to the vertical rotation axis 72. The same may apply to the wheels 8.

[0140] Optionally, at least one pivot joint or pivot joints (68L; 68U) are spherical joints. Each spherical joint can constrain a three-degree-of-freedom spherical joint and allow three rotations around the longitudinal axis L, the transverse direction TR and the vertical axis V.

[0141] In the lower position, the center point 68C of the lower pivot joint 68L can be at a lower level than the passenger platform 28. In the lower position, the center point 68C of the lower pivot joint 68L can be vertically away from the bottom surface 54.

[0142] In the lower position, the ground G may be closer to the horizontal middle plane 78 than the ground G is to the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8. The lower pivot joint 68L, and in particular the center point 68C thereof, may be closer to the ground G than the horizontal middle plane 78. The horizontal middle plane 78 may be located vertically midway between the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L.

[0143] In the lower position, the vertical thickness TH of the passenger platform 28 may be at least partially or completely between the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L. A vertical portion, in particular a horizontal layer, such as the lower half or the middle half, of at least half of the thickness of the passenger platform may be disposed between the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L. This arrangement may reduce the distance between the steering knuckle 68 and the passenger platform 28.

[0144] In the upper position, the illustrative axis of rotation 32I of the wheel 8 can be above the passenger platform 28, and in particular above the top surface 52. The axis of rotation 32 can be vertically away from the top surface 52. There can be a vertical separation between them. In the upper position, the lower pivot joint 68L can be vertically horizontal with the passenger platform 28 and / or above the bottom surface 54. The illustrative axis of rotation 32I of the wheel 8 can be above the main horizontal plane 52L.

[0145] Figure 6 A schematic diagram is provided of a longitudinal view of the steering module 30. The steering module 30 is currently shown in a lower position, an illustration of an upper position of the rotation axis of the wheel is provided by an illustrative rotation axis 32I. The distance D shows the course of the rotation axis 32 between the lower position and the upper position.

[0146] The structure 26 can be roughly symmetrical with respect to the sagittal plane. The sagittal plane can include a longitudinal axis L and a vertical axis V. The structure 26 can include two symmetrical steering modules 30. For the sake of brevity, the following description will be made about one of the two steering modules 30, but it can be applicable to all steering modules. Then, the right steering module 30 currently represented can be connected to the left steering module (not shown) through the passenger platform 28. The current embodiment can be applied to other steering modules or each steering module 30 of the bus or correspondingly applied to the unit.

[0147] A seat 60 is shown having a seat base 62 and a backrest 64 protruding from the seat base 62. The seat 60 can accommodate a passenger, thereby forming a seating position. The seat 60 is arranged above the steering module 30 and above the wheels 8. The wheel cover 18 can be arranged below the seat 60. The transverse outer beam 40 can span longitudinally above the wheels 8. The wheel cover 18 can separate the passenger compartment 58 from the wheels 8.

[0148] The passenger platform defines a ground clearance 50, which can vary depending on the vertical position of the wheels 8 relative to the passenger platform 28. The ground clearance 50 can be greater than the vertical thickness TH, preferably at least two or four times greater than the vertical thickness TH. The transverse beams 42 and the longitudinal beams 44 can have the same vertical thickness TH. The vertical thickness TH can be the average thickness or the maximum thickness of the passenger platform 28.

[0149] The steering module 30 may include a steering knuckle 68. The steering knuckle 68 may include an inner body 86 facing the passenger platform 28 and an outer body 88 connected to the wheel 8. In the current embodiment, the inner body 86 may include a recess in which the outer body 88 engages. However, the opposite is also contemplated.

[0150] The inner body 86 and the outer body 88 can rotate relative to each other. The inner body 86 and the outer body 88 can be connected by vertical pivot joints 90, in particular upper and lower pivot joints. They can rotate around the vertical axis of rotation 72. The vertical pivot joint 90 can have an upper end facing the seat 60 and a lower end facing the ground G. The inner body 86 can surround the upper pivot joint 68U and the lower pivot joint 68L. The axis of rotation 32 can be arranged vertically between these pivot joints (68U; 68L) and across the bodies 86-88.

[0151] The steering module 30 may include a steering actuator 36 adapted to pivot the wheel 8 about a vertical axis of rotation 72. The actuator 36 may be disposed within the wheel housing 18 and / or vertically horizontal to the passenger platform 58. It may be considered that the passenger platform 28 separates the actuator 36 of the right steering module 30 from the actuator of the left steering module (not shown). The passenger compartment 58 may separate the steering modules 30. The thickness TH of the passenger platform 28 may be constant from the right steering module 30 to the left steering module, which may be in particular laterally opposite and / or symmetrical. The thickness TH between opposite wheel housings 18 may be constant.

[0152] The steering actuator 36 may include a worm drive 92 to change the orientation of the outer body 88 relative to the inner body 86 about the vertical rotation axis 72. The worm drive 92 can be coupled to the upper vertical pivot joint 90. For example, a worm gear 94 can be rigidly fixed to the outer body 88, particularly the upper vertical pivot joint 90. A worm 96 can be rotatably mounted to the inner body 86 and can mesh with the worm gear 94. Rotation of the worm 96 about the longitudinal axis causes the worm gear 94 to pivot about the vertical rotation axis 72. Thus, the wheel 8 can be deflected. According to another approach, the worm drive can be associated with the lower vertical pivot joint 90.

[0153] The worm drive 92 according to the invention optimizes the compactness and the angular movement of the steering module 30 .

[0154] The passenger platform 28 may include a top surface 52 and a bottom surface 54 that may define a vertical thickness TH. The passenger platform 28 may have a vertical middle portion M, for example, in the middle of its thickness, and a horizontal middle plane 78 passing through the vertical middle portion M. The passenger compartment 58 may begin vertically from the top surface 52, which may form a passenger floor therein.

[0155] The steering module 30 may include a swing arm 80 to connect the inner body 86 to the structure 26, in particular to the passenger platform 28. The swing arm 80 may be adapted to prevent the inner body 86 from rotating relative to the vertical rotation axis 72. The lateral inner end of the swing arm 80 may be connected to the passenger platform 28 by an inner pivot connection 82. The inner pivot connection 82 may have a horizontal swing axis 84, in particular a colinear swing axis 84. The upper swing arm 80 and the lower swing arm 80 may be connected to the upper pivot joint 68U and the lower pivot joint 68L, respectively, and then the steering knuckle 68 rests on the passenger platform 28 while allowing vertical movement. In the lower position, the lower swing arm 80 may be partially horizontal with the passenger platform 28. In the upper position, the lower swing arm 80 may be completely within the vertical thickness TH of the passenger platform 28. A system, such as a suspension system and / or a hydraulic cylinder, may exert a force on the lower swing arm 80.

[0156] In the lower position, the rotation axis 32 of the wheel 8 may be within the thickness TH of the passenger platform 28, for example in the upper half. The rotation axis 32 may be below the top surface 52 and / or above the bottom surface 54. The top surface 52 may be the uppermost surface of the passenger platform 28. The bottom surface 54 may be the lowermost surface of the passenger platform 28. The main horizontal plane 52L may be above the rotation axis 32.

[0157] In the lower position, the lower pivot joint 68L may be below the passenger platform 28. In particular, it may be below the bottom surface 54. Each pivot joint (68L; 68U) may have a center point 68C.

[0158] The pivot joint (68L; 68U) may comprise a ball joint(s) and / or a hinge joint(s). Optionally, the pivot joint (68L; 68U) is an articulated joint.

[0159] In the lower position, the center point 68C of the lower pivot joint 68L can be below the passenger platform 28. In the lower position, the center point 68C of the lower pivot joint 68L can be vertically away from and / or below the bottom surface 52.

[0160] In the lower position, the horizontal midplane 78 may be below the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and / or above the lower pivot joint 68L; for example, above the center point 68C of the lower pivot joint 68L. The horizontal midplane 78 may be located vertically between the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L.

[0161] In the lower position, the vertical thickness TH of the passenger platform 28 may be at least partially or completely between the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L. A vertical portion, in particular a horizontal layer, representing at least half of the thickness of the passenger platform may be provided between the rotation axis 8 of the wheel 8 and the lower pivot joint 68L. The vertical portion may be a lower half or a middle half arranged at the vertical middle of the passenger platform 28. This arrangement may reduce the distance between the steering knuckle 68 and the passenger platform 28.

[0162] Thus, mechanical stresses in the swing arm 80 may be reduced. A reduction in stresses is also observed in the pivot joints 68U and 68L and the inner pivot connection 82; although the steering motion is maintained. In addition, it may be easier to manage parasitic rotation of the wheel 8 when the swing arm 80 pivots. Bending stresses within the passenger platform may be less restrictive in terms of mechanical strength. Thus, the present invention enables the use of a thin platform while reducing stresses therein. The proposed configuration may promote compressive stresses relative to traction stresses, which improves tolerance to fatigue caused by repeatedly applied loads or impacts.

[0163] In the upper position, an illustrative axis of rotation 32I of the wheel 8 may be above the passenger platform 28, and in particular, above the top surface 52. The axis of rotation 32 may be vertically separated from and away from the top surface 52. The top surface 52 may be the uppermost surface of the passenger platform 28. In the upper position, the lower pivot joint 68L may be vertically horizontal with the passenger platform 28 and / or above the bottom surface 54. The illustrative axis of rotation 32I of the wheel 8 may be above the major horizontal plane 52L.

[0164] In the lower position, the lower swing arm 80 can be partially horizontal with the passenger platform 28 and partially below the passenger platform 28. In the upper position, the lower swing arm 80 can be completely within the vertical thickness TH of the passenger platform 28.

[0165] Figure 7 A schematic diagram is provided showing a block diagram of a bus steering method according to the present invention. The steering module 30 is currently shown in a lower position, and an illustration of an upper position of the rotation axis of the wheel is provided by an illustrative rotation axis 32I. The distance D shows the path of the rotation axis 32 between the lower position and the upper position.

[0166] The bus steering method comprises the following steps:

[0167] transmitting 100 a left turn command, in particular a first left turn command, to a steering actuator of a left turn module, and

[0168] A right turn command, in particular a first right turn command, is sent 102 to a steering actuator of a right turn module.

[0169] transmitting 104 a second left turn command to a steering actuator of a left turn module, and

[0170] A second right turn command is sent 106 to the steering actuator of the right turn module.

[0171] During the transmission step 100 and the sending step 102, the first left turn command is different from the first right turn command. They may include different pivot angle commands. These commands may be delivered at different times, for example one after the other. As an illustration, the left turn module may start pivoting before the right turn module. Passenger comfort is improved. A mechanical action is triggered on the suspension system. These commands may be made in different directions, thereby compensating for or triggering inclination or camber.

[0172] The second left instruction and the second right instruction are identical and / or simultaneous. The bus is thus suitable for travelling along a lateral track, for example in a crab configuration. This allows easy access to narrow bus stops.

[0173] The bus can be connected with Figures 1 to 6The buses described in any one or combination of the foregoing are similar or identical.

[0174] Each figure may be considered a separate embodiment of the present invention.

[0175] Figures 1 to 5 The combination of can form an embodiment of the present invention.

[0176] Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 5 to 6 The combination of can form an embodiment of the present invention.

[0177] It should be understood that since various changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the detailed description of specific preferred embodiments is given by way of illustration only. The scope of protection is defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A bus (2) comprising a passenger compartment (58), a left steering module (30) and a right steering module (30), each steering module (30) comprising: a wheel (8) having an axis of rotation (32), the wheel being movable between an upper position defining a riding position of the bus for lowering the passenger compartment to facilitate entry into the passenger compartment and a lower position defining a driving position of the bus for increasing the ground clearance of the bus, o a steering knuckle (68) having an upper pivot joint (68U; 90) and a lower pivot joint (68L; 90), o a steering actuator (36) for pivoting a corresponding steering knuckle (68), The bus further includes a passenger platform (28) defining the passenger compartment (58) and laterally connecting the left steering module (30) and the right steering module (30). The passenger platform (28) is at least partially vertically arranged between the rotation axis (32) of the wheel (8) and the lower pivot joint (68L; 90) of the steering module (30), wherein, when the wheel is in the lower position, most of the thickness of the passenger platform is vertically arranged between the rotation axis of the wheel and the lower pivot joint, and when the wheel is in the upper position, the lower pivot joint is vertically at the level of the thickness of the passenger platform.

2. The bus (2) according to claim 1, wherein: The bus is an articulated bus.

3. The bus (2) according to claim 1, wherein: The passenger platform (28) includes a horizontal middle plane (78) at a mid-thickness M of the passenger platform (28), and the horizontal middle plane (78) is arranged between the rotation axis (32) of the wheel (8) and the lower pivot joint (68L; 90).

4. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Each of the left steering module (30) and the right steering module (30) includes: an upper swing arm (80) above the passenger platform (28), the upper swing arm being connected to a corresponding upper pivot joint (68U; 90); and / or a lower swing arm (80) vertically at the level of the passenger platform (28), the lower swing arm being connected to a corresponding lower pivot joint (68L; 90).

5. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Each steering knuckle (68) comprises an inner body (86) connected to the passenger platform (28) and an outer body (88) connected to the wheel (8), the inner body (86) and the outer body (88) being mounted rotatably relative to each other about a vertical axis of rotation (72).

6. The bus (2) according to claim 5, wherein: The steering actuator (36) includes a worm drive (92) to pivot the outer body (88) relative to the inner body (86), the worm drive (92) including a worm (96) rotatably connected to the inner body (86) and a worm gear (94) fixed to the outer body (88).

7. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The passenger platform (28) extends laterally from the steering actuator (36) of the left steering module (30) to the steering actuator of the right steering module (30), at least one or each steering actuator being an electric actuator or a pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator.

8. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The passenger platform (28) includes a transverse beam (42) protruding laterally from the left steering module (30) to the right steering module (30), and the transverse beam (42) extends laterally along the steering actuator of the left steering module (30) and the steering actuator of the right steering module (30).

9. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The thickness TH of the passenger platform (28) is between the left steering module (30) and the right steering module (30), the passenger platform (28) comprises a top surface (52) and a bottom surface (54), the top surface is the uppermost surface of the passenger platform, the bottom surface is the lowermost surface of the passenger platform, and the steering actuator of the left steering module (30) and / or the steering actuator of the right steering module (30) are arranged in the thickness TH; and / or the or each steering actuator is above the bottom surface; and / or the or each steering actuator is vertically level with the top surface (52).

10. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The bus (2) includes a longitudinal beam (44) at the interface (46) between the passenger platform (28) and the steering module (30), and the longitudinal beam (44) is at least partially vertically arranged between the rotation axis (32) of the wheel (8) and the lower pivot joint (68L; 90).

11. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Each of the left steering module (30) and the right steering module (30) includes a wheel housing (18), and the passenger platform (28) protrudes from the wheel housing (18) and extends longitudinally to a longitudinal end of the wheel housing (18).

12. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: At least one steering knuckle (68) or the steering knuckle (68) is capable of vertically moving between an upper position and a lower position relative to the passenger platform (28), wherein the passenger platform (28) includes a top surface (52) defining the passenger cabin (58), and the passenger platform (28) also includes a bottom surface (54), which is the lowest surface of the passenger platform, and in the lower position, the top surface (52) is above at least one rotation axis or each rotation axis (32), and in the upper position, the top surface (52) is below at least one rotation axis or each rotation axis (32); the bottom surface (54) is above at least one lower pivot joint (68L; 90) in the lower position.

13. The bus (2) according to claim 12, wherein: The bottom surface (54) is below the lower pivot joint (68L; 90) at the upper position.

14. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The longitudinal distance (56) between the right wheels (8) and / or between the left wheels (8) is smaller than the distance D between the upper position and the lower position of at least one steering module (30).

15. The bus (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Between the left turn module (30) and the right turn module (30), the passenger platform (28) protrudes over at least a majority of the width of the bus; and the width of the bus is a maximum of 2.55 m.

16. The bus according to claim 15, wherein: The passenger platform (28) protrudes over at least 1.50 m.

17. The bus according to claim 15, wherein: The maximum width of the passenger platform is 2.55 m.

18. A bus steering method for a bus, the bus (2) comprising a passenger compartment (58), a left steering module (30) and a right steering module (30), each steering module (30) comprising: o a wheel (8) having an axis of rotation (32), o a steering knuckle (68) having an upper pivot joint (68U; 90) and a lower pivot joint (68L; 90), o a steering actuator (36) for pivoting a corresponding steering knuckle (68), The bus also includes a passenger platform (28) defining a passenger compartment (58) and located between the left steering module (30) and the right steering module (30), The passenger platform (28) is at least partially vertically disposed between the rotation axis (32) of the wheel (8) and the lower pivot joint (68L; 90) of the steering module (30), Wherein, the bus steering method comprises the following steps: transmitting (100) a left turn command to a steering actuator of the left turn module, and A right turn command is sent (102) to the steering actuator of the right turn module, the left turn command and the right turn command are different and / or sent at different times, and the bus is a bus according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. The bus steering method (2) according to claim 18, wherein: The method further comprises the steps of transmitting (104) a second left turn command to the steering actuator of the left steering module, and sending (106) a second right turn command to the steering actuator of the right steering module, the second left turn command and the second right turn command being identical and / or simultaneous.

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