Signal lamp

Abstract

A signal lamp (10), in particular for a construction machine, a working machine, an agricultural machine or a vehicle, comprises: a housing (12); at least one lighting element (14) integrated into the housing (12) and configured to visualize a state; wherein the housing (12) has a C-shape or a U-shape, and an undercut is formed by the C-shape, and wherein the housing (12) is flexible in a specific region.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a signal light, and more particularly to a signal light for a construction machine, a working machine, an agricultural machine, or a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Signal lights or status lights are used to indicate various machine states, such as readiness, faults, or warnings. For example, various colors can be used for this purpose. For example, DE 102 12 895 A1 discloses such display colors and signal types. For example, this document discloses a signal column with multiple signal elements and various colors. Fastening such signal lights can be problematic, especially when they are installed on different machines.

[0003] For example, driving a signal light or status light via a bus is disclosed in DE 112019004337 T5. The sensor status indicator assembly disclosed therein comprises a detection interface configured to be communicatively coupled to a wiring harness of a sensor. Summary of the Invention

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to provide a signal light concept which is distinguished by its flexible and versatile use.

[0005] This object is achieved by the subject-matter of the independent patent claims.

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention provide a signal light, particularly for construction machinery, work machinery, agricultural machinery, or vehicles, comprising a housing and at least one lighting element integrated into the housing and configured to visualize a status. For example, this lighting element may be a red, yellow, green, or white lighting element, such as an LED. The housing has a C- or U-shape and is flexible in certain areas.

[0007] According to an embodiment, the housing is configured to be elastically deformable relative to the open cross section defined by the ends or housing halves of the C-shape or U-shape due to the areally flexible nature of the housing.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention are based on the recognition that signal lights can be configured in C- and U-shapes, and that once a certain degree of flexibility is built into the housing, these C- and U-shapes can be used for clamping. Thus, the signal light can be advantageously clamped to a pipe or frame of a construction machine, work machine, agricultural machine, or vehicle. This allows for flexible use.

[0009] According to an embodiment, the signal light can include a data bus (e.g. CAN) and / or a data bus interface via which the signal light can be coupled with a controller or a construction machine, a working machine, an agricultural machine or a vehicle or a component of a machine / vehicle (e.g. a working device or an accessory). For example, the CANopen protocol can be used, which allows for a fast integration and simple adaptation of the baud rate and the node ID. Another advantage of the U-shape or C-shape is that the light signal can be emitted within a large range of emission angles. According to an embodiment, the at least one integrated lighting element is thus configured to cover or transmit at a rate of >120 o 、>150 o 、>180 o Or even >270 o Furthermore, the unit may comprise a controller for decoding the data bus signals and driving the lighting elements accordingly (individually).

[0010] According to a further embodiment, the signal light comprises an electrical energy source, in particular a battery or rechargeable battery integrated in or arranged on the signal light. Both measures further increase flexibility and versatility, since the signal light can be easily installed and then also operated automatically without the need for additional wiring work.

[0011] According to embodiments, the housing has a C- or U-shape in the first and second dimensions. Furthermore, the housing has an elongated shape in the third dimension. In other words, the C- or U-shaped housing can appear cylindrical in three dimensions. This housing is robust and can also provide appropriate splash protection (e.g., IP67).

[0012] According to embodiments, the semicircular cross-section opening, or the generally designated opening cross-section, is formed as a cylinder or generally in a C- or U-shape. The semicircular opening cross-section, or the generally designated opening cross-section, is configured to clamp against a counterpart (e.g., a pipe). Furthermore, a frictional connection or a non-positive connection with the counterpart can also be achieved. In the case of elastic deformation, the forces for the non-positive connection, frictional connection, and clamping are advantageously achieved through elastic properties.

[0013] Regarding the integrated lighting element, it should be noted that, depending on the embodiment, the integrated lighting element can have various colors and / or display frequencies to indicate various states. For example, red light can be emitted as an alarm signal, wherein it is conceivable to differentiate priorities based on flashing or static lighting.

[0014] Depending on the embodiment, the integrated lighting element is configured as a running light or matrix for displaying text, images, etc. For example, by individually driving multiple lighting elements, the running light allows for indicating a waiting state. Using a matrix, such as an LED matrix, the signal light can be adapted to the customer's requirements, for example, to display or present customer-specific logos, images, and / or texts. Furthermore, the lighting elements can be used to display fill levels or individual messages, for example.

[0015] According to one embodiment, a brightness sensor is placed in or on the signal light to automatically adapt the brightness of the integrated lighting element, operating light, or matrix to the ambient light. This improves the readability of the lighting element under varying lighting conditions. Furthermore, for example, if the brightness of the lighting element is increased or decreased depending on the ambient light, the power consumption of the signal light can also be optimized.

[0016] According to embodiments, a temperature sensor or temperature probe is positioned within or on the signal lamp to detect the ambient or internal temperature within the lamp housing. For example, the brightness of an integrated lighting element, operating light, or matrix can be automatically adjusted based on the measured temperature. For example, if a signal lamp is operated in very hot weather, the temperature inside the lamp can rise significantly, potentially damaging the electronic components located therein (e.g., lighting elements, LED matrices, etc.). To prevent this, for example, the brightness of the lighting element, LED matrix, etc. can be reduced as the temperature increases, thereby limiting the resulting heat loss.

[0017] According to an embodiment, a tilt sensor or a position sensor is arranged in or on the signal light in order to determine the horizontal or vertical position of the signal light on the construction machine, work machine, agricultural machine or vehicle. In addition, the tilt sensor or the position sensor can be used to detect changes in the position or orientation of the signal light. If the signal light includes a matrix for displaying a logo, image or text, for example, by rotating the signal light by 90 degrees, the signal light can be adjusted to the desired position. o , which can automatically adapt displayed content (e.g., images or text) to a new position / orientation. A tilt sensor or position sensor can measure absolute or relative values, i.e., changes in rotational motion, and can be, for example, a tilt sensor or tilt switch, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a rotational speed sensor, or the like.

[0018] All measured or detected sensor values ​​of the brightness sensor, temperature sensor and / or tilt sensor or position sensor, as well as further information (e.g., indicating whether the brightness of the lighting element, LED matrix, etc. is reduced and, if so, by how much) can also be transmitted via the data bus or data bus interface of the signal light to a controller or display (e.g., an operator terminal) of the machine / vehicle.

[0019] According to a further embodiment, the signal light can also be supported by an integrated buzzer, which acoustically indicates the current state or a change in state.

[0020] Another embodiment provides a construction machine (e.g., a work machine, agricultural machine, etc.) or a vehicle including a corresponding signal light. According to one embodiment, the construction machine / work machine / agricultural machine or vehicle may include a pipe or a frame or a bracket having a cross-section that generally corresponds to the cross-section of the opening of the C-shaped or U-shaped housing of the signal light.

[0021] By coupling information from a construction machine, work machine, agricultural machine, or vehicle, or a controller of the machine or vehicle, with signal lights, one or more states of the construction machine, work machine, agricultural machine, or vehicle, or components mounted on the machine or vehicle (e.g., work equipment or attachments) can be displayed via signal lights. For example, components mounted on the machine or vehicle can include a work basket, a (telescopic) boom, a rotating ladder, an (extendable) support, or a paving blade for a road paver, a material hopper, a bucket, a gripper, a coulter, a blade, agricultural or forestry attachments for soil work, etc. All known work equipment or attachments for construction machines, work machines, agricultural machines, and vehicles are possible. For example, fill levels, distances, measured values ​​such as pressure, weight, or temperature, limit values, sensor data, machine or component parameter data, directional information (e.g., when a machine component is to be retracted and extended or raised), etc., or generally, the current or existing state (condition) of the machine, vehicle, or component, or any other change in value or state, can be displayed via signal lights. For example, machines can be mobile (road) construction machines, such as pavers, rollers, milling machines, graders, excavators, mobile working machines (such as lifts, cranes, garbage trucks, loaders), as well as agricultural or forestry harvesting and working machines. All known construction machines, working machines, and agricultural or forestry machines are possible. For example, vehicles can be rescue or emergency vehicles, etc.

[0022] Another embodiment provides a system including a signal light and a pipe or a frame or a bracket having a specific cross-section. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0024] Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a signal light according to one embodiment is shown in perspective view;

[0025] Figure 1B The top view shows the Figure 1A a schematic diagram of a signal light to illustrate the clamping mechanism starting from a C-shape or U-shape; and

[0026] Figure 1C Another schematic diagram of a signal light according to one embodiment is shown in another perspective view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Before explaining the embodiments below with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that elements and structures having the same effects have the same reference numerals, and thus their descriptions are applicable to each other.

[0028] Figure 1A A signal light 10 is shown which has a housing 12 and a lighting element 14 embedded in the housing. In this case, these can be arranged behind one or more transparent areas with the reference numeral 12d.

[0029] In this case, the housing 12 has a U-shape or a C-shape. This means that the housing 12 forms this C-shape in two dimensions, while the housing 12 has an elongated shape in the third dimension (the length dimension, see arrow L). Apart from the cutout caused by the C-shape, the housing 12 thus has a cylindrical shape with a cutout 13. Figure 1B It can be clearly seen that the cutout 13 can have a circular area with or without an undercut.

[0030] Figure 1B A top view of the signaling device 10 is shown. It can be seen that the housing 12 and its transparent area 12d extend in a U-shape around the cutout 13. Alternatively, the housing can have a C-shape, forming an undercut at location 13h. According to further embodiments, the cutout 13 can thus have an undercut 13h, wherein the undercut 13h is optional. This illustrates that, depending on the embodiment, the housing 12 can have a C-shape or, in alternative embodiments, a U-shape. The housing 12 includes a flexible area in one or more areas of the cutout 13. This flexible area is designated by reference numeral 15. Due to the flexible area 15, the two housing halves 12a and 12b can move at least within a limited area. The movable or deformable area is designated by reference numeral V. When the housing 12 is deformed by the housing halves 12a and 12b expanding around the area 15, the area 15 elastically deforms, and in response to this deformation, a force F is radially applied by the two housing halves 12a and 12b or the two legs 12a and 12b. This makes it possible to exert a clamping force radially on an element, such as a pipe, located in the cutout 13. This makes it possible to produce a clamping with a positive connection and / or a non-positive connection.

[0031] Depending on the embodiment, the deformation can also be used to introduce a pipe through the opening 13o between the two housing halves 12a and 12b and to hold it in the undercut region.

[0032] from Figure 1BStarting from a top view, the pipe (not shown) thus extends into or out of the plane of the illustration. This illustrates that the housing 12 is configured to be clamped onto an elongated object extending along the longitudinal axis L. Preferably, the elongated object has a shape that is suitable for the cutout 13, for example, a circular shape. This also means that the elongated object can have another shape, for example, an angular shape, in which case the cutout 13 preferably also has a corresponding angular shape. This allows the signal light 10 to be clamped onto a pipe, for example, a vertical pipe of a construction machine, work machine, agricultural machine, or vehicle, simply due to its shape. The housing 12, the transparent area 12d, and the lighting element 14 then extend around the pipe in the cutout 13. It should be noted that the circular shape of the cutout 13 can also be maintained in the bent and open state (see elastic deformation region V), while in the non-deformed state, the cutout 13 can have, for example, an elliptical shape.

[0033] From here, the lighting element 14 (eg, an RBG LED or RGBW LED) extends in a ring-shaped manner around the clamped object. This advantageously has the effect that the detection of the lighting signal is thus possible over a large emission range, in this case over 180°. o Or even more than 270 o To drive the LEDs, unit 10 may include a controller (not shown); this controller is used, for example, to receive data bus signals, decode them, and (individually) drive them accordingly, converting messages into color signals, text signals, or graphic signals. Depending on the embodiment, the controller may differentiate between daytime and nighttime modes. Based on this, it is conceivable to control the brightness (or display in general) to optimize readability in all lighting conditions.

[0034] In this case, according to a further embodiment, signal lamp 10 may include a brightness sensor (not shown). This allows, for example, the aforementioned controller to automatically adapt the brightness of lighting elements 14 to the ambient brightness, thereby improving the readability of lighting elements 14. Power consumption of signal lamp 10 can also be optimized by adapting the brightness of lighting elements 14 to ambient lighting conditions. Furthermore, signal lamp 10 may include a temperature sensor (not shown), which similarly allows the brightness of lighting elements 14 to be automatically adapted.

[0035] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1BIn the embodiment, transparent areas 12d are provided at the lower and upper ends of the cylinder, thereby providing two lighting arrays with lighting elements 14. This allows for outputting corresponding color signals at the bottom and top, or for different signals to be output at the top and bottom. For example, only a red alarm signal (warning indicator) could be output at the top, and only a green ready signal (status indicator) could be output at the bottom. Obviously, variations in color and signal status are also possible. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to use multicolor LEDs (RGB or RGBW LEDs, for example, 100 RGB or RGBW LEDs) instead of single-color LEDs, so that the signal status can be signaled at both the top and bottom via the same array. LEDs generally offer the advantage of energy efficiency.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, the cladding surface area 12m (see Figure 1C ) may also include one or more lighting elements or planar lighting elements 14, for example one or more single-color or multi-color LEDs (RGB or RGBW LEDs or LED arrays). To this end, the cladding surface area 12m is configured to be fully transparent or at least partially transparent.

[0037] Different signal states are also possible via different flashing frequencies. Furthermore, it is also conceivable to implement a running light by individually operating multiple lighting elements 14 in series, for example to symbolize a waiting state. Furthermore, the lighting elements 14 can be flexibly used to indicate, for example, the fill level (by individually operating them). According to further embodiments, in addition to pure color signals, the unit 10 also transmits specific messages tailored to the application. Customers can use logos, images, and text to adapt the signal light to their requirements. Thus, the lighting elements 14 can be arranged in a matrix for displaying text, etc., preferably in the central area of ​​the signal device 10. For this purpose, this central area of ​​the cylinder, i.e., the area between the lower and upper areas 12d, is also configured to be transparent.

[0038] According to a further embodiment, it is also conceivable that a plurality (ie more than two) of arrays are provided as lighting elements.

[0039] As mentioned above, emission preferably occurs over a large emission range (>120 o 、>150 o 、>180 o or even >270 o ). A ring-shaped lighting array or a C-shaped or U-shaped lighting array is formed by the emission range.

[0040] At this point, it should be noted that the signal light 10 may also include a communication device, such as a radio communication device, such as Bluetooth, WLAN, etc., to receive corresponding information from the outside (e.g., from a construction machine, work machine, agricultural machine, or vehicle). This information will be displayed using a color-coded display or generally together with the status indicator. Of course, depending on the embodiment, it is also conceivable to establish a cable connection to the construction machine, work machine, agricultural machine, or vehicle. In this regard, the status indicator 10 may include an interface, particularly a cable interface, for receiving data. According to further embodiments, the electrical energy for operating the signal light and / or for charging the signal light's battery may also be obtained via such an interface or the interface. Depending on the embodiment, the signal light may also be battery-powered or include another energy supply device.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, a tilt sensor or a position sensor (not shown in the figure) can be arranged in or on the signal lamp 10 in order to determine the horizontal or vertical position of the signal lamp on the construction machine / working machine / agricultural machine or vehicle. Changes in the position or orientation of the signal lamp 10 can also be detected by the tilt sensor or the position sensor. If the signal lamp 10 comprises a matrix for displaying a logo, image or text as described above, for example, by rotating the signal lamp 10 by 90 degrees o , which can automatically adapt displayed content (e.g., images or text) to the new position / orientation.

[0042] Instead of or in addition to the aforementioned clamping of the housing 12 via a positive and / or negative connection, the signaling light 10 can be fastened to the construction / work / agricultural machine or vehicle via a threaded connection. To this end, the housing 12 includes corresponding means for fastening the signaling light 10, for example, in the area of ​​the cutout 13 or opening 13o. For example, the fastening means can be threaded holes, threaded sleeves, threaded inserts, bolts, etc. Instead of or in addition to the already described clamping of the housing 12, other fastening options are conceivable and possible, for example, via mechanical brackets or brackets. In this case, it is also conceivable to fasten the signaling light 10 to the construction / work / agricultural machine or vehicle via corresponding mechanical brackets, which allow the signaling light 10 to be easily fastened to the machine / vehicle without the need for additional tools.

Claims

1. A signal lamp (10), in particular a signal lamp (10) for construction machinery, work machinery, agricultural machinery or a vehicle, comprising: Shell (12); at least one lighting element (14) integrated into the housing (12) and configured to visualize a status; The housing (12) comprises a C-shape or a U-shape and is flexible in a specific area.

2. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein The housing (12) is configured to be elastically deformed relative to an open cross section (13) defined by the ends of the C-shape or the U-shape due to regional flexibility characteristics.

3. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein A semicircular opening cross section or a designated opening cross section (13) is formed by the C-shape or the U-shape.

4. The signal light (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The semicircular opening cross section (13) or the designated opening cross section is configured to clamp relative to a counterpart and / or to form a frictional connection or a non-positive connection with the counterpart.

5. The signal light (10) according to claim 3, wherein The semicircular opening cross section (13) or the designated opening cross section (13) is flexibly deformable.

6. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein The housing (12) having the C-shape or the U-shape in the first and second dimensions has an elongated shape in the third dimension, and / or wherein the housing (12) having the C-shape or the U-shape has a cylindrical shape in a three-dimensional view.

7. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein At least one integrated lighting element (14) is configured to visualize various states using various colors and / or various display frequencies; and / or wherein the emission angle of the at least one lighting element (14) is greater than 120 o , greater than 150 o , greater than 180 o or greater than 210 o .

8. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein The signal light (10) comprises a data bus and / or a data radio interface, via which the signal light can be coupled to a controller or a construction machine, a working machine, an agricultural machine or a vehicle and / or components of the machine / the vehicle.

9. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein The signal light (10) comprises a power supply, in particular a battery or a rechargeable battery integrated in the signal light (10) or arranged on the signal light.

10. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein At least one integrated lighting element (14) is configured as a running light or a matrix for displaying text, images, etc.

11. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein A brightness sensor and / or a temperature sensor is arranged in or on the signal light (10).

12. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein A tilt sensor or a position sensor is arranged in or on the signal light (10).

13. The signal light (10) according to claim 1, wherein The signal light (10) includes an integrated buzzer.

14. Construction machine, work machine, agricultural machine or vehicle comprising the signal light (10) according to claim 1.

15. The construction machine, working machine, agricultural machine or vehicle according to claim 14, wherein: The construction machine, the working machine, the agricultural machine or the vehicle comprises a pipe or a frame or a bracket, the cross section of which corresponds approximately to the opening cross section (13).

16. The construction machine, working machine, agricultural machine or vehicle according to claim 14, wherein: The signal light (10) is configured to display one or more states of the construction machine, the working machine, the agricultural machine or the vehicle, or components of the construction machine, the working machine, the agricultural machine or the vehicle.

17. The construction machine, working machine, agricultural machine or vehicle according to claim 14, wherein: The construction machine, the working machine, the agricultural machine or the vehicle, or a component of the construction machine, the working machine, the agricultural machine or the vehicle, or a controller of the construction machine, the working machine, the agricultural machine or the vehicle is informationally coupled to the signal light (10).

18. System comprising a signal lamp (10) according to claim 1 and a pipe or a frame or a bracket with a specific cross section.

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