Device for pivotably connecting an air guide element to a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates in particular to a device for pivotably connecting an air deflecting element (16) to a vehicle (10), preferably to the rear wall of a cab of a utility vehicle, preferably a side air deflecting element at the rear of the cab. The device comprises a pivot hinge (22) designed to be fastened to the air deflecting element (16) on the one hand and to the vehicle (10) on the other hand. The pivot hinge (22) has a locking mechanism (32) designed to automatically lock the pivot hinge (22) when at least one predetermined pivot position is reached.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for pivotably connecting an air deflecting element to a rear wall of a cab of a vehicle, preferably a utility vehicle, the air deflecting element preferably being a lateral air deflecting element at the rear side of the cab. Background Art

[0002] Trucks can be partially equipped with wind deflection elements or air guide elements. The air deflection elements are intended to improve the aerodynamics between the tractor and the trailer. For this purpose, there are in particular lateral air deflection elements (so-called side panels or side wings). The lateral air deflection elements are fastened to the rear wall of the cab and can at least partially close or bridge the area between the cab and the trailer. The lateral air deflection elements can usually be arranged at least on one side (the driver's side or the passenger side) in a manner that can be pivoted about a vertical axis. This can allow access to the rear wall of the cab in order, for example, to be able to couple and disconnect the medium supply of the trailer or to be able to perform certain maintenance work.

[0003] Various types of pivotable connections have been developed for the side air guide elements. These connections include outward pivoting through a parallelogram, outward pivoting through an axis of rotation, and inward pivoting through an axis of rotation.

[0004] Document US 8 403 401 B2 discloses an adjustable air deflector for mounting on a vehicle. It comprises at least one panel and a plurality of brackets for fastening the panel to the vehicle. Each bracket comprises a vehicle bracket portion for fastening to the vehicle and a panel bracket portion for fastening the panel to the vehicle bracket portion. The bracket portions are pivotably coupled to each other so as to thereby pivotally connect the panel to the vehicle. The vehicle bracket portion comprises a first engagement element and the panel bracket portion comprises a second engagement element. These engagement elements are designed to engage with each other when the engagement elements are clamped together so as to thereby prevent the panel from pivoting about the axis of rotation and relative to the vehicle. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the invention is to provide an alternative and / or improved connection for a lateral air guiding element.

[0006] The invention provides a device for pivotably connecting a preferably planar air deflecting element (e.g. a spoiler element), preferably a lateral air deflecting element at the rear side of the cab, to a vehicle, preferably to the rear wall of the cab of a utility vehicle. The device comprises a pivot hinge, which is designed to be fastened (e.g. directly or indirectly) on the one hand to the air deflecting element and (e.g. directly or indirectly) on the other hand to the vehicle. The pivot hinge comprises a locking mechanism, which is designed to automatically lock the pivot hinge when at least one predetermined pivot position, preferably at least two predetermined pivot positions, is reached.

[0007] The device may provide the following advantages: The locking mechanism automatically applies a (e.g. mechanical or magnetic) locking force which holds the pivot hinge in a predetermined pivot position. A pivot mechanism which is as simple as possible for the user may thereby be achieved, which does not require additional actuation, e.g. by levers or the like. The automatic locking mechanism may include a tactile and / or audible feedback perceptible to the user, so that the user can be sure that the air guide element has been locked. The device uses fewer large components and may therefore provide cost and weight advantages compared to today's serial solutions.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism is integrated into the pivot hinge, thereby, for example, not having to provide a separate locking mechanism, and thus saving installation space.

[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism is coaxially arranged around the pivot axis of the pivot hinge.Therefore, the locking mechanism can protect the pivot axis from corrosion, for example.

[0010] In a further exemplary embodiment, the pivot axis of the pivot hinge is completely encapsulated or sealed, wherein, particularly preferably, the locking mechanism partially encapsulates or seals the pivot axis (e.g. by covering the lateral sides of the pivot axis). Alternatively or additionally, the pivot axis of the pivot hinge can be completely encapsulated or sealed. Thus, for example, corrosion can be reduced and maintenance intervals can be extended.

[0011] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism is designed as a latching mechanism.

[0012] In a further development, the latch mechanism is designed to be at least double-acting, so that the pivot hinge can be locked in at least one predetermined pivot position by at least two latching engagements or movable latching elements, respectively. Thus, for example, larger loads can be accommodated even in a smaller installation space.

[0013] In another embodiment, the latch mechanism has a spring, preferably a helical spring (e.g. a helical compression spring), for biasing the latch mechanism in at least one predetermined pivot position. Preferably, the spring can cause or at least support the autonomy of the locking action. Preferably, the spring can coaxially surround the pivot axis of the pivot hinge. The required installation space can thereby advantageously be reduced.

[0014] In another embodiment, the latching mechanism comprises a first, e.g. fixed, latching element and a second, e.g. movable (e.g. rotatable) latching element for mutual engagement, wherein the first latching element is preferably designed as a (e.g. external) latching sleeve and the second latching element is preferably designed as a (e.g. internal) latching sleeve.

[0015] In an improved example, the latch mechanism may include a third latch element, for example, fixed, and a fourth latch element, for example, movable (for example, rotatable), for mutual engagement, the third latch element being preferably designed as a (for example, external) latch sleeve, and the fourth latch element being preferably designed as a (for example, internal) latch sleeve. Thus, for example, the latch mechanism may be designed to be, for example, double-acting.

[0016] For example, the first latching element and / or the third latching element can be fastened in a hinge seat of a pivot hinge, for example in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0017] In a variant embodiment, the latching elements are arranged coaxially with respect to one another and / or coaxially surround the pivot axis of the pivot hinge and / or coaxially surround a spring, preferably a helical spring (e.g. a helical compression spring). The sleeve region of the pivot hinge (preferably the sleeve region of the pivot arm of the pivot hinge) can also coaxially surround the latching element. Thus, for example, the required installation space can be reduced and / or protective packaging can be facilitated.

[0018] In a further variant embodiment, the second latching element and the fourth latching element are elastically supported against one another, preferably by means of a spring support.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the first latch element and the third latch element are designed as the same component. Alternatively or additionally, the second latch element and the fourth latch element are designed as the same component. Therefore, the manufacturing cost can be preferably reduced and incorrect assembly can be prevented.

[0020] In a further exemplary embodiment, the pivot hinge comprises a hinge support for fastening to the vehicle and a pivot arm which can be pivoted relative to the hinge support and is fastened to the air deflection element. Preferably, the hinge support can support the pivot arm on its upper side and / or lower side. Alternatively or additionally, the locking mechanism can be designed, for example, such that when locked, the pivot arm does not perform any axial movement along the pivot axis of the pivot hinge. This also prevents an axial movement of the air deflection element when locked.

[0021] In one embodiment, the pivot joint has an adjustment device, preferably with a rotatable pressure spindle, for finely adjusting the pivot arm of the pivot joint, preferably in a predetermined rotational position. Thus, for example, the size of the gap between the vehicle and the air guide element can be finely adjusted in the swiveled-out position.

[0022] In another embodiment, the at least one predetermined pivot position comprises a predetermined swiveled-out position of the pivot hinge and / or a predetermined swiveled-in position of the pivot hinge. Preferably, the swiveled-out position and the swiveled-in position may be spaced apart from each other by an angle of at least 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°, 90° or 100° (e.g., approximately 100°) about the pivot axis of the pivot hinge.

[0023] In a variant embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of, for example two, pivot hinges provided with locking mechanisms for fastening the air deflecting element to the vehicle in a mutually spaced manner, preferably in the longitudinal direction of the air deflecting element.

[0024] The invention also relates to a device for air guidance for a motor vehicle, preferably for a utility vehicle. The device has an air guidance element, preferably a lateral air guidance element at the rear of the cab. The device also has a pivotable connection device as disclosed herein. A pivot hinge is fastened to the air guidance element, preferably to the inside of the air guidance element. For example, the air guidance element can be pivoted inwards by the pivot hinge from a swiveled-out position in which the air guidance element is substantially flush with the vehicle.

[0025] Preferably, the air guide element can be designed as a substantially strip-shaped, vertically oriented and / or flat panel or spoiler, preferably made of plastic or metal sheet.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the air deflector element comprises a grip, preferably with a gripping recess, which is arranged on, preferably integrated on, the inside and / or outside of the air deflector element. For example, the grip can be used to make it easier to climb onto or off a working platform behind the cab when the air deflector element is folded.

[0027] In a refinement, the gripping portion is oriented parallel to the pivot axis of the at least one pivot hinge.

[0028] In a further exemplary embodiment, in the use position of the air-guiding element, the grip extends over at least one quarter, one third, one half or two thirds of the height of the air-guiding element and / or over a length of at least 40 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm or 80 cm. Furthermore, the grip can also extend over the entire length of the air-guiding element. Thus, the grip can be used safely for climbing up and down.

[0029] The invention also relates to a motor vehicle, preferably a utility vehicle (eg a truck, preferably with a loading structure, or a tractor, preferably with a semitrailer), having a device for a pivotable connection or for air guidance as disclosed herein.

[0030] For example, the apparatus disclosed herein may also be used in passenger vehicles or off-road vehicles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The above preferred embodiments and features of the present invention can be combined with each other arbitrarily. Other details and advantages of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figure 1 A perspective side view of a motor vehicle is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 2 A perspective rear view of a cab of an exemplary motor vehicle is shown.

[0034] Figure 3 A perspective detail view of a portion of the rear wall of an exemplary cab is shown.

[0035] Figure 4 An assembled or exploded view showing the cab rear wall, pivot hinges and side air deflector elements is shown.

[0036] Figure 5 A top view of an exemplary pivot hinge is shown in a rotated-out position and a rotated-in position.

[0037] Figure 6 A schematic horizontal section through the rear wall of the driver's cab in front of the lateral air guidance elements that can be pivoted on both sides is shown.

[0038] Figure 7 An exemplary pivot hinge is shown in a swiveled-out position and an exemplary pivot hinge is shown in a swiveled-in position.

[0039] Figure 8 Shows an assembled or exploded view of a pivot hinge.

[0040] Fig. 9 Different positions of an exemplary latch mechanism for a pivot hinge are shown.

[0041] Fig.10 A horizontal section through an exemplary side air guide element is shown, showing a grip and a hand engaging the grip.

[0042] Fig.11 A schematic diagram showing a working platform for climbing on and off the rear of a cab of a motor vehicle is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The embodiments shown in the drawings correspond at least in part, so similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, in order to avoid repetition, explanations are also given with reference to the description of other embodiments or drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 A motor vehicle 10 is shown. The motor vehicle 10 is preferably designed as a tractor (Sattelzugmaschine) for towing a couplable semitrailer (Sattelaufliegers) or a truck with a loading structure. However, the technology disclosed herein can also be used to advantageously connect the air guide element to other vehicles such as passenger cars or utility vehicles, trailers and / or semitrailers in a pivotable manner.

[0045] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The motor vehicle 10 comprises a driver's cabin 12 with a rear wall 14. Two side air guide elements 16 are arranged on the rear wall 14 to improve aerodynamics. One side air guide element 16 is arranged on the driver's side and the other side air guide element 16 is arranged on the passenger side. For example, the side air guide elements 16 are designed as essentially strip-shaped, vertically oriented and / or flat panels or spoilers, preferably made of plastic or sheet metal.

[0046] Two side air guide elements 16 are connected to the rear wall 14 in such a way that they can be pivoted inwards and outwards. The side air guide elements 16 can be pivoted outwards in order to extend the side walls of the cab 12 substantially flush with the forward travel direction of the motor vehicle 10, thereby improving the aerodynamics. The side air guide elements 16 can be pivoted inwards in order to allow access to the rear wall 14 and the medium supply 18 of the semitrailer, in particular when a semitrailer is coupled. For example, a person can also climb onto a narrow working platform 20 behind the rear wall 14 when the corresponding side air guide element 16 is pivoted inwards.

[0047] It is also possible that only one of the two lateral air guiding elements 16 is pivotably connected to the rear wall 14 , while the other lateral air guiding element 16 is, for example, fixedly connected to the rear wall 14 .

[0048] Figures 2 to 4 The pivotable connection of the side air guide elements 16 to the rear wall 14 is shown in more detail. The pivotable connection comprises two pivot hinges 22 for each side air guide element 16.

[0049] The pivot hinges 22 are suitably arranged to be spaced apart vertically. Preferably, the pivot hinges 22 are fastened, for example detachably, preferably by bolting, to the inner side of the respective side air guide element 16. Preferably, the pivot arm 26 of the pivot hinge 22 can be fastened to the side air guide element 16 (see, for example, Figure 3). The pivot arm 26 is pivotably connected to the hinge support 28 of the pivot hinge 22. The first pivot hinge 22 is fastened to the upper region of the side air guide element 16. The second pivot hinge 22 is fastened to the lower region of the side air guide element 16. The pivot axes of the first and second pivot hinges 22 are aligned with each other.

[0050] The pivot hinge 22 is respectively fastened to the rear wall 14 indirectly, for example detachably, preferably by bolting, via a connecting bracket 24. Direct fastening to the rear wall 14 is also possible. The hinge support 28 of the pivot hinge 22 can preferably be fastened to the connecting bracket 24 or to the rear wall 14 (see, for example, Figure 3 ). A first pivot hinge 22 is fastened to an upper region of the rear wall 14 on the driver's side or the passenger's side. A second pivot hinge 22 is fastened to a lower region of the rear wall 14 on the driver's side or the passenger's side.

[0051] Figure 5 and 6 The pivot range of the pivot joint 22 or of the lateral air guide element 16 connected thereto is shown.

[0052] The pivot arm 26 can be in the pivoted out position ( Figure 5 The solid line in the middle) and the transition position ( Figure 5 The swiveled-out position and the swiveled-in position can be pivoted around an angle α about the pivot axis of the pivot hinge 22. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the angle α is approximately 100°. The angle α can also be smaller or larger, for example, at least 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°, 90°, 100° or 110°. Preferably, the pivot hinge 22 can be automatically locked in the swiveled-out position and / or the swiveled-in position and / or any intermediate position between the swiveled-out position and the swiveled-in position. The swiveled-out position and the swiveled-in position can be additionally limited, for example by corresponding stops.

[0053] Figure 7 and 8 A preferred exemplary embodiment of the pivot hinge 22 is shown in more detail.

[0054] Expediently, the pivot hinge 22 comprises a pivot arm 26 , a hinge support 28 , a pivot axis 30 and a locking mechanism 32 .

[0055] The pivot axis 30 pivotably connects the pivot arm 26 to the hinge support 28. Suitably, the pivot axis 30 can be designed as a cylindrical bolt, pin or nail.

[0056] The locking mechanism 32 is used to automatically lock the pivot hinge 22 in at least one predetermined pivot position, preferably in the swiveled-out position and the swiveled-in position. To this end, the locking mechanism 32 can be formed in any manner and method. The locking mechanism 32 automatically applies a locking force, which holds the pivot hinge 22 in at least one predetermined pivot position. In order to pivot the pivot hinge 22, this locking force must first be overcome. For example, the locking force can be applied magnetically or preferably mechanically. A particularly preferred exemplary embodiment of the locking mechanism 32 will be described below, in which the locking mechanism 32 is designed as a mechanical latch mechanism (Rastmechanismus).

[0057] The locking mechanism 32 comprises four latching elements 34, 36, 38, 40 and a spring 42. Preferably, the latching elements 34, 36, 38, 40 are designed as latching sleeves. Appropriately, the latching sleeves have latching projections and / or latching recesses on mutually facing areas (especially end surface areas). Preferably, the pivot axis 30 and the locking mechanism 32 (especially the four latching elements 34, 36, 38, 40 and the spring 42) are arranged coaxially with each other.

[0058] The first latching element 34 is fixed relative to the hinge support 28. Preferably, the first latching element 34 is held in a rotationally fixed manner in a first (e.g., upper) annular region of the hinge support 28. For example, the first latching element 34 has at least one protrusion on the outer lateral surface, which can engage in at least one recess on the inner lateral surface of the first annular region of the hinge support 28.

[0059] The second latching element 36 is fixed in a non-rotatable manner relative to the pivot arm 26. The second latching element 36 is arranged in a protected manner in the sleeve area of ​​the pivot arm 26. The second latching element 36 is directly opposite the first latching element 34. The second latching element 36 is guided in a sliding bearing sleeve 44. The sliding bearing sleeve 44 coaxially surrounds the first latching element 34 and the second latching element 36. The second latching element 36 can rotate relative to the first latching element 34 and the hinge support 28. The second latching element 36 is elastically supported on a spring 42. The spring 42 biases the second latching element 36 in the direction toward the first latching element 34, that is, preferably downward in the vertical direction. Depending on the rotational position, the second latching element 36 can engage into the first latching element 34 to latch or lock the pivot hinge 22.

[0060] The third latching element 38 is fixed relative to the hinge support 28. Preferably, the third latching element 38 is held in a rotationally fixed manner in the second (e.g., lower) annular region of the hinge support 28. For example, the second latching element 38 has at least one protrusion on the outer lateral surface, which can engage in at least one recess on the inner lateral surface of the second annular region of the hinge support 28.

[0061] The fourth latching element 40 is fixed in a non-rotatable manner relative to the pivot arm 26. The fourth latching element 40 is arranged in a protected manner in the sleeve region of the pivot arm 26. The fourth latching element 40 is directly opposite the third latching element 38. The fourth latching element 40 is guided in a sliding bearing sleeve 46. The sliding bearing sleeve 46 coaxially surrounds the third latching element 38 and the fourth latching element 40. The fourth latching element 40 can rotate relative to the third latching element 38 and the hinge support 28. The fourth latching element 40 is elastically supported on a spring 42. The spring 42 biases the fourth latching element 40 in the direction toward the third latching element 38, i.e. preferably upwards in the vertical direction. Appropriately, the spring 42 supports the second latching element 36 and the fourth latching element 40 against each other. Depending on the rotational position, the fourth latching element 40 can engage into the third latching element 38 to latch or lock the pivot hinge 22.

[0062] In at least one predetermined pivot position of the pivot hinge 22, the first and second latch elements 34 and 36 and the third and fourth latch elements 38 and 40 are designed to engage with each other under the action of the spring 42 to latch the pivot hinge 22. The at least one predetermined pivot position is predetermined by the design and arrangement of the latch protrusions and latch recesses of the latch elements 34, 36, 38, 40.

[0063] The latching elements 34, 36, 38, 40 each have a central through hole. The pivot axis 30 extends through these through holes. The first and second latching elements 34, 36 preferably surround the pivot axis 30 in the upper region of the pivot axis 30. The third and fourth latching elements 34, 36 preferably surround the pivot axis 30 in the lower region of the pivot axis 30. The head of the pivot axis 30 can abut against the opening of the through hole of the first latching element 34. The other end of the pivot axis 30 can be axially fixed to the third latching element 38 by a screw. The sleeve region of the pivot arm 26 coaxially surrounds the latching elements 34, 36, 38, 40.

[0064] The spring 42 coaxially surrounds the pivot axis 30. The spring 42 is preferably designed as a helical compression spring. The second latching element 36 and the fourth latching element 40 can coaxially surround the spring 42.

[0065] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the latch mechanism is designed to be double-acting. In at least one predetermined pivot position, not only the latch elements 34, 36 engage with one another, but also the latch elements 38 and 40 engage with one another. However, it is also possible, for example, to provide a single-acting latch mechanism, for example with only two latch elements that can engage with one another. Thus, the latch mechanism can, for example, comprise only the first and second latch elements 34 and 36.

[0066] The pivot hinge 22 may further include a seal 48, such as a sealing ring, preferably an O-ring. The seal 48 may seal the gap between the sleeve region of the pivot arm 26 and the annular region of the hinge support 28, respectively. A cover 50 (e.g., a lid) may be connected to the first latch element 34 from above, preferably plugged therein, and another cover 50 (e.g., a lid) may be connected to the third latch element 38 from below, preferably plugged therein. Thus, the pivot shaft 30 and the locking mechanism 32 may be completely encapsulated. Thus, corrosion and maintenance may at least be reduced.

[0067] The first latching element 34 and the third latching element 38 can be designed as the same component. The second latching element 36 and the fourth latching element 40 can be designed as the same component. The cover 50, the seal 48 and the plain bearing sleeves 44, 46 can also be designed as the same component, respectively.

[0068] The pivot hinge 22 can include an adjustment device 52. The adjustment device 52 has a screw or a pressure spindle 54. The pressure spindle 54 can be screwed into and out of a threaded sleeve 56. The threaded sleeve 56 is fixedly connected to the pivot arm 26. The adjustment device 52 also has a stop 58 for the head of the pressure spindle 54. The stop 58 is arranged on the hinge support 28. By screwing the pressure spindle 54 in or out, the positioning of the pivot arm 26 (and therefore the side air guide element 16) in the swiveled-out position can be finely adjusted. This makes it possible, for example, to finely adjust the size of the gap between the cab 12 and the side air guide element 16 (see, for example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 ).

[0069] The following will refer to Fig. 9 The working principle of an exemplary locking mechanism 32 is explained. In order to make the working principle clearly visible, the pivot arm 26 is not shown. Fig. 9 The position of the locking mechanism 32 in the upper left illustration shows a first locking position of the locking mechanism 32 , corresponding to, for example, a swiveled-out position of the pivot hinge 22 . Fig. 9 The position of the locking mechanism 32 in the lower right illustration shows a second locking position of the locking mechanism 32, for example corresponding to the turned-in position of the pivot hinge 22. Other arrangements show the operating states of the locking mechanism 32 when transferring from the first locking position to the second locking position (order: top row>middle row>bottom row).

[0070] In the first locking position (upper left illustration), the first latch element 34 and the second latch element 36 engage with each other. The spring 42 presses the preferably trapezoidal latching protrusion of the second latch element 36 into the preferably trapezoidal latching recess of the first latch element 34. In addition, the third latch element 38 and the fourth latch element 40 engage with each other. The spring 42 presses the preferably trapezoidal latching protrusion of the fourth latch element 40 into the preferably trapezoidal latching recess of the third latch element 38.

[0071] Fig. 9 The upper right illustration in the middle shows that the first latching element 34 presses the second latching element 36 inwardly against the spring force when the pivot arm 26 rotates. Similarly, the third latching element 38 presses the fourth latching element 40 inwardly against the spring force. The axial movement of the latching elements 36, 40 is achieved by the mutually sliding, preferably inclined sides of the latching protrusions and / or latching recesses.

[0072] Fig. 9 The illustrations in the middle row of show how the compressed latch elements 36 , 40 pass through the latch protrusions of the respective opposing latch elements 34 , 38 when the pivot arm 26 rotates. Fig. 9 The illustrations in the last row of show how the latching projections of the latching elements 36, 40 finally reach the latching recesses of the second locking position and latch into these latching recesses under the action of the spring bias.

[0073] The pivot hinge 22 thus enables that during locking no force is applied to the side air guide element 16 in the lateral direction by, for example, a gas spring or a tension spring, but only in the axial direction of the pivot hinge 22 itself. The pivot arm 26 of the pivot hinge 22 (and therefore the side air guide element 16) does not move in the axial direction during locking, but rather the built-in latching elements 36, 40 are moved by the spring 42 against the spring bias or with the spring bias.

[0074] The locking mechanism 32 enables a tactilely perceptible (and possibly also audible) locking action. Thus, the operator is provided with clear feedback that the side air guide element 16 is locked. The pivoting of the side air guide element 16 continues along the path and only a certain actuation force is required to bring it out of the locked position. At the end of the path, the locking mechanism is automatically locked again by the spring 42. The advantage here is that the side air guide element 16 does not become part of the path independently and does not jump towards or away from the operator.

[0075] Likewise, the structure of the pivot hinge 22 also provides the possibility of optimally adjusting the operating forces. For example, in order to adjust the operating forces, the side angles or side dimensions or the spring forces of the latching projections and / or latching recesses of the latching elements 34, 36, 38, 40 can be changed. By replacing the latching elements 34, 36, 38, 40, other lockable pivot angles can also be achieved.

[0076] Even though a particularly preferred exemplary embodiment is described here in which the pivot joint 22 is used for the pivotable connection of the lateral air deflection element 16 , it should be pointed out that the pivot joint 22 can in principle also be used in other arrangements, for example for the pivot connection of the air deflection element to the vehicle.

[0077] A further advantage of the pivot joint 22 may be that, due to the adjustability of the actuating force, the grip integrated in the lateral air guide element 16 can be used to climb onto the working platform 20 (see Figure 1 ) or for climbing down the work platform 20. The operating force can be adjusted so that when grasping the grip of the side air guide element 16 when climbing up or climbing down, the side air guide element 16 remains locked and no undesired pivoting occurs. An exemplary embodiment with a grip on the side air guide element 16 will be described below.

[0078] Figure 1 , 2 , 4 and 10 show that the lateral air guiding element 16 can have a grip 60 .

[0079] The grip 60 can be arranged on the inner side of the lateral air guide element 16. The lateral air guide element 16 expediently comprises an outer shell 62 and an inner shell 64. The outer shell 62 and the inner shell 64 can be fastened to each other in the outer end region, for example, by means of a flange 66 or other fastening means which is adhered or fastened to each other in another way. The grip 60 can be expediently integrated into the inner shell 64 as a vertically extending gripping recess.

[0080] The grip 60 extends parallel to the longitudinal extent of the lateral air guiding element 16 and is therefore oriented substantially parallel to the pivot axis 30 of the pivot hinge 22. The grip 60 is dimensioned and arranged such that it can be grasped by a person standing on the ground in order to climb onto the working platform 20. At the same time, a person standing on the working platform 20 can also grasp the grip 60 in order to climb down from the rear.

[0081] A special feature of the grip 60 is that it comprises a housing 62 which is gripped, for example, with the thumb. This allows, on the one hand, the adhesive surface connecting the two housings 62, 64 to be pulled over and, on the other hand, the ergonomics of the grip can be improved. By means of a continuous adhesive seam, the grip 60 can also extend, for example, all the way up and down, so that the operator always has a perfect grip, whether he is standing above or below the motor vehicle 10.

[0082] For example, in the use position of the lateral air guiding element 16, the grip 60 extends, in particular starting from the lower end region of the lateral air guiding element 16, over at least one quarter, one third, one half or two thirds of the height of the lateral air guiding element 16. The grip 60 preferably extends over a length of at least 40 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm or 80 cm. Furthermore, the grip 60 can also extend over the entire length of the lateral air guiding element 16.

[0083] Fig.11 It is schematically shown how a person can climb onto the working platform 20 and climb down therefrom by grasping the grips 60 when the lateral air guide elements 16 are swung in.

[0084] The invention is not limited to the preferred exemplary embodiments described above. On the contrary, a large number of variants and modifications are possible which also utilize the concept of the invention and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims independent of the cited claims. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are disclosed independently of one another. Furthermore, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of features relating to the presence and / or construction of the pivot hinge of independent claim 1. All range specifications herein are to be understood as being disclosed in such a way that all values ​​falling within the respective range are disclosed individually, for example also as preferably narrower outer limits of the respective range, respectively.

[0085] Reference numerals list

[0086] 10 Motor Vehicles

[0087] 12 Cab

[0088] 14 Back wall

[0089] 16 (side) air guide element

[0090] 18Media Supply Department

[0091] 20Working Platform

[0092] 22 pivot hinge

[0093] 24 Connecting bracket

[0094] 26 Pivot Arm

[0095] 28 hinge support

[0096] 30 Pivot Axle

[0097] 32 Locking mechanism

[0098] 34 first latch element

[0099] 36 Second latch element

[0100] 38 third latch element

[0101] 40 fourth latch element

[0102] 42 Spring

[0103] 44 Sliding bearing sleeve

[0104] 46 Sliding bearing sleeve

[0105] 48 Seals

[0106] 50 hoods

[0107] 52 Adjustment device

[0108] 54 pressure spindle

[0109] 56 threaded sleeve

[0110] 58 stopper

[0111] 60 grip

[0112] 62 Shell

[0113] 64 inner shell

[0114] 66 flange

[0115] α Pivot Angle

Claims

1. A device for pivotably connecting an air guide element (16) to a vehicle (10), the device comprising: a pivot hinge (22) designed to be fastened on the one hand to the air guide element (16) and on the other hand to the vehicle (10), wherein the pivot hinge (22) comprises a locking mechanism (32) designed to automatically lock the pivot hinge (22) when at least one predetermined pivot position is reached, Wherein, the at least one predetermined pivot position comprises a predetermined pivot-out position of the pivot hinge (22) and a predetermined pivot-in position of the pivot hinge (22).

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The locking mechanism (32) is integrated into the pivot hinge (22); and / or The locking mechanism (32) is coaxially arranged around the pivot axis (30) of the pivot hinge (22); and / or The pivot axis (30) of the pivot hinge (22) is fully encapsulated or sealed, wherein the locking mechanism (32) partially encapsulates or seals the pivot axis (30); and / or The locking mechanism (32) of the pivot hinge (22) is fully encapsulated or sealed.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The locking mechanism (32) is designed as a latching mechanism.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein: The latching mechanism is designed to be at least double-acting, so that the pivot hinge (22) can be locked in the at least one predetermined pivot position by at least two latching engagements or movable latching elements (36, 40), respectively.

5. The device according to claim 3, wherein: The latch mechanism includes a spring (42) for biasing the latch mechanism in the at least one predetermined pivot position.

6. The device according to claim 3, wherein: The latch mechanism includes latch elements including a fixed first latch element (34) and a movable second latch element (36), the first latch element and the second latch element being adapted to engage with each other.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein: The latch elements (34, 36, 38, 40) are arranged coaxially with each other; and / or The latch element (34, 36, 38, 40) coaxially surrounds the pivot axis (30) of the pivot hinge (22); and / or The latch element (34, 36, 38, 40) coaxially surrounds the spring (42); and / or The sleeve region of the pivot hinge (22) coaxially surrounds the latch element (34, 36, 38, 40); and / or The second latch element (36) and the fourth latch element (40) of the latch element are resiliently supported against each other; and / or The first latching element (34) and the third latching element (38) of the latching element are designed as the same component; and / or The second latching element (36) and the fourth latching element (40) are designed as the same component.

8. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pivot hinge (22) comprises a hinge support (28) for fastening to the vehicle and a pivot arm (26) which is pivotable relative to the hinge support and for fastening to the air guide element (16).

9. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pivot hinge (22) comprises an adjustment device (52) for finely adjusting the pivot arm (26) of the pivot hinge (22).

10. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The device comprises a plurality of the pivot hinges (22) provided with the locking mechanism (32) for fastening the air guide element (16) to the vehicle in a spaced-apart manner.

11. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The air guide element (16) is a planar air guide element.

12. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The device is used to pivotably connect the air deflecting element to a rear wall (14) of a cab of a utility vehicle.

13. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The air guidance elements are lateral air guidance elements at the rear side of the driver's cab.

14. The device according to claim 5, wherein: The latch mechanism includes a coil spring.

15. The device according to claim 5, wherein: The spring (42) causes or at least supports the autonomy of the locking action; and / or The spring (42) coaxially surrounds the pivot axis (30) of the pivot hinge (22).

16. The device according to claim 6, wherein: The first latching element is designed as a latching sleeve.

17. The device according to claim 6, wherein: The second latching element is designed as a latching sleeve.

18. The device according to claim 6, wherein: The latch element comprises a fixed third latch element (38) and a movable fourth latch element (40), the third latch element and the fourth latch element being adapted to engage with each other.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein: The third latching element is designed as a latching sleeve.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein: The fourth latching element is designed as a latching sleeve.

21. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein: The latch element (34, 36, 38, 40) coaxially surrounds the coil spring.

22. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein: A sleeve region of the pivot arm (26) of the pivot hinge (22) coaxially surrounds the latch element.

23. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein: The second latching element (36) and the fourth latching element (40) are elastically supported by each other via a spring (42).

24. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein: The hinge support (28) supports the pivot arm (26) at the upper side and the lower side of the pivot arm (26); and / or The locking mechanism (32) is designed such that the pivot arm (26) does not move axially along the pivot axis (30) of the pivot hinge (22) during the locking process.

25. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein: The adjustment device (52) comprises a rotatable pressure spindle (54).

26. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein: The pivot hinge (22) comprises an adjustment device (52) for finely adjusting the pivot arm (26) of the pivot hinge (22) in a predetermined pivot position.

27. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: The predetermined pivot-out position and the predetermined pivot-in position are spaced apart from each other by an angle of at least 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°, 90° or 100° with respect to the pivot axis (30) of the pivot hinge (22).

28. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein: The device comprises a plurality of the pivot hinges (22) provided with the locking mechanism (32) for fastening the air deflecting element (16) to the vehicle in a spaced-apart manner in the longitudinal direction of the air deflecting element (16).

29. An air guide device for a motor vehicle, the device comprising: Air guide element (16); and Device according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the pivot hinge (22) is fastened to the air guiding element (16).

30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein: The air guide element (16) comprises a gripping portion (60) which is arranged on the inside and / or outside of the air guide element (16).

31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein: The gripping portion (60) is oriented parallel to the pivot axis (30) of the pivot hinge (22); and / or In the use position of the air-guiding element (16), the gripping portion (60) extends over at least one quarter, one third, one half or two thirds of the height of the air-guiding element (16); and / or The grip (60) extends over a length of at least 40 cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm or 80 cm or over the entire length of the air guidance element (16).

32. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein: The motor vehicle is a multi-purpose vehicle.

33. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein: The air guide element (16) is a side air guide element at the rear side of the cab.

34. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein: The pivot hinge (22) is fastened to the inner side of the air guide element (16).

35. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein: The gripping portion (60) comprises a gripping groove.

36. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein: The grip is integrated into the inner side and / or the outer side of the air guide element (16).

37. A motor vehicle comprising a device according to any one of claims 1-36.

38. A motor vehicle according to claim 37, wherein: The motor vehicle is a multi-purpose vehicle.

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