Master pin assembly

Abstract

A kingpin assembly (1) for a semitrailer of an articulated vehicle, comprising a kingpin (2) defining an axis of rotation (A), a swivel bearing (3) arranged about the axis of rotation (A), the kingpin (2) having a kingpin flange (6) for indirectly or directly mounting the kingpin (2) on the semitrailer, and a drive connected to the swivel bearing (3) and pivotable about the axis of rotation (A), the rotary bearing (3) has a fixed bearing ring (7) or a fixed bearing ring section which is fixed relative to the main pin (2), and a rotatable bearing ring (8) or a rotatable bearing ring section which is rotatable relative to the main pin (2), and the drive member is fixed to the rotatable bearing ring (8) or the rotatable bearing ring section. On one side of the main pin (2) or the fixed bearing ring (7) or the fixed bearing ring section, and on the other side of the rotatable bearing ring (8) or the rotatable bearing ring section or the drive, one element of a pair of elements consisting of an angle sensor and an angle encoder is arranged respectively on the main pin (2) or the fixed bearing ring (7) or the fixed bearing ring section, and on the rotatable bearing ring (8) or the rotatable bearing ring section or the drive.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a kingpin assembly for a semi-trailer of an articulated vehicle, comprising a kingpin defining a rotation axis, a swivel bearing disposed about the rotation axis, and a drive member connected to the swivel bearing and pivotable about the rotation axis. The kingpin has a kingpin flange for mounting the kingpin indirectly or directly on the semi-trailer. The swivel bearing has a fixed bearing ring or fixed bearing ring segment fixed relative to the kingpin, and a rotatable bearing ring or rotatable bearing ring segment rotatable relative to the kingpin. The drive member is fixed to the rotatable bearing ring or rotatable bearing ring segment. Background Technology

[0002] Such mains assembly is known, for example, from DE202022106659U, EP 3891051A1, EP1918179A1 and DE102004024333A1.

[0003] A tractor unit and a semi-trailer (also simply called a trailer) form an articulated vehicle, also known as a tractor-semi-trailer combination. The tractor unit has a fifth wheel coupling plate, to which the kingpin located at the bottom of the semi-trailer engages and locks. For coupling the trailer, the fifth wheel plate typically has a wedge-shaped, tapering inlet opening in the direction of travel. This inlet opening has a free clearance, the depth of which ensures the kingpin can enter and exit the fifth wheel plate without obstruction. During coupling, the trailer slides across the surface of the fifth wheel plate via its semi-trailer plate, thus determining its vertical position, where the kingpin is indirectly or directly mounted in a fixed position on the semi-trailer plate. Lateral guidance is ensured by the kingpin, which is forcibly guided through the inlet opening during coupling until it reaches its locked position. The inlet opening is defined below by the length of the kingpin. In other words, it should be ensured that components located below the inlet opening, such as reinforcing ribs, do not come into contact with the kingpin during trailer coupling and disengagement.

[0004] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” and “bottom” in this document refer to the direction of gravity. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms “axial,” “radial,” and “tangential” refer to the axis of rotation defined by the kingpin.

[0005] When a tractor unit and a semi-trailer are coupled, it is desirable to know the angular position of the trailer relative to the tractor unit as accurately as possible and to transmit this angular position information to the control units of the tractor unit and / or semi-trailer unit. This information is relevant, for example, to the trailer's steering axle or to optimizing driver assistance systems (whether reversing or moving forward). Several methods exist for determining the so-called articulation angle between the tractor unit and the semi-trailer unit. See, for example, EP3162665A1, DE202012008717U1, DE19964059A1, US5,152,544A, WO2020 / 248035A1, AT514448A1, US2013 / 082453A1, US2015 / 084311A1, GB2470610A, and DE102018123642A1. In most known systems, magnets and magnetic field sensors are used. The sensor is typically attached indirectly or directly to the fifth wheel plate, and the magnet is usually attached to the kingpin. A drawback of this assembly is that the measurement results may depend not only on the hinge angle, but also on the misalignment between the sensor and magnet after coupling, and the clearance between the kingpin and the fifth wheel plate in the coupled state. These two factors can lead to incorrect angle values ​​in the output. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a kingpin assembly that creates the prerequisites for simple and accurate determination of the hinge angle. This object is achieved by the kingpin assembly according to claim 1.

[0007] According to the present invention, on the one hand, one element of a pair of elements consisting of an angle sensor and an angle encoder is provided on the kingpin or fixed bearing ring or fixed bearing ring segment, and on the other hand, one element of a pair of elements consisting of an angle sensor and an angle encoder is provided on the rotatable bearing ring or rotatable bearing ring segment or drive member.

[0008] The difference between this scheme and all known schemes is that both the angle sensor and the angle encoder are assigned to the kingpin assembly, and thus to the semi-trailer. Therefore, apart from the influence of the articulation angle to be detected, the relative positions of the angle sensor and the angle encoder are always the same, regardless of the state of the fifth wheel plate after the tractor and semi-trailer are coupled and its spatial position relative to the kingpin. The scheme according to the invention also has the significant advantage of being very easy to retrofit, as only the semi-trailer needs to be modified. In this case, the defined relative rotational movement between the angle sensor and the angle encoder is ensured by utilizing existing rotating bearing elements (fixed and rotatable bearing rings or bearing ring segments) around the kingpin.

[0009] It should be noted that for rotary bearings, 360° extended fixed bearing rings and rotatable bearing rings can be used, or only corresponding "bearing ring segments" can be used, or a combination of bearing rings on one side and "bearing ring segments" on the other side. Bearing ring segments are essentially sufficient to ensure the degree of freedom of rotational motion and positional determination in all other dimensions, since the fifth-wheel coupling only allows rotational motion on a maximum of approximately 260° of partial circumference under any circumstances. However, fully annular fixed and rotatable bearing rings have the advantage of higher stiffness, which in turn ensures more precise positional determination, especially when subjected to tilting moments, and is therefore generally preferred.

[0010] Preferably, the angle sensor is disposed on the rotatable bearing ring or rotatable bearing ring segment or on the drive component, and the angle encoder is disposed on the kingpin or fixed bearing ring or fixed bearing ring segment.

[0011] In the coupled state, the drive element is preferably configured to interact with the fifth wheel plate such that the relative rotation between the kingpin and the fifth wheel plate is transmitted to the rotatable bearing ring or rotatable bearing ring segment with the smallest possible clearance. For this purpose, for example, a form-fit contact between the drive element and the fifth wheel plate or an element fixed thereto can be considered.

[0012] For this purpose, the drive unit particularly preferably includes a centering element configured to center the drive unit in the inlet opening of the fifth wheel plate of the traction vehicle.

[0013] Angle sensors are advantageously non-contact measurement sensors, particularly magnetic field or Hall effect sensors, capacitive sensors, or optical sensors.

[0014] Non-contact sensor technology has many advantages; in particular, it is not easily worn, has almost no slippage, and directly generates electronic signals that can be used for further processing.

[0015] Accordingly, the angle encoder may advantageously include magnetized patterns (in particular one or more magnets, magnetic segments or magnetic coatings), optically detectable marking patterns (in particular the application of coloring or fading), tactile marking patterns (in particular engraving or embossing), or combinations of these patterns.

[0016] It should be noted that tactile marking patterns can be scanned by mechanical contact or by non-contact methods using magnetic field sensors, capacitive sensors, or optical sensors.

[0017] Angle encoders preferably include patterns that vary in the circumferential and / or radial directions.

[0018] The pattern can exhibit increasing or continuous variations in the circumferential and / or radial directions. This includes, for example, patterns comprising lines that converge or diverge in the circumferential and / or radial directions, the spacing of which, and the resulting angular position information, can be determined from the signal of an angle sensor. Alternatively, the pattern can include at least one line inclined at an acute angle to the circumferential or radial direction, the distance of which to an imaginary reference plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and the resulting angular position information, can again be determined from the signal of an angle sensor. In another alternative, the pattern can be formed by a line pattern varying in the circumferential direction, wherein multiple lines transverse to the circumferential or radial direction and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential or radial direction have varying lengths and / or widths and / or spacings, and the lengths and / or widths and / or spacings of these lines, and the resulting angular position information, can also be determined from the signal of an angle sensor.

[0019] Because of this change, even if there is currently no relative motion between the angle sensor and the angle encoder (i.e., the kingpin does not rotate relative to the fifth wheel plate), the evaluation electronics are able to assign the sensor signal to a specific angular position.

[0020] The pattern is particularly preferably defined at the center position.

[0021] This means the pattern includes a mark that can be uniquely assigned to the center position. This makes it possible to detect straight-line travel in a particularly simple way. Combined with a pattern that varies in the circumferential and / or radial directions, the mark at the center position provides redundant information that can be used, for example, for the calibration of angle sensors.

[0022] The sensor’s signal output can be provided to the trailer via a wired connection, or wirelessly to the trailer, tractor, or a location outside the vehicle (such as a central control center).

[0023] In an alternative embodiment, the angle sensor preferably includes a wheel, and the angle encoder includes a contact surface on which the wheel is supported by frictional engagement.

[0024] The drive unit is preferably designed as a support frame for indirectly or directly holding, in particular, electrical and / or electromagnetic and / or pneumatic and / or hydraulic connections for connection to the corresponding connection unit of the tractor.

[0025] Electrical and / or electromagnetic and / or pneumatic and / or hydraulic coupling devices are part of a plug-in coupling system for connecting a tractor and a trailer, as described, for example, as in DE102004024333A1. Plug-in coupling systems are known in various embodiments. Such systems typically include at least a plug and a socket, and generally also include other components for automatically connecting and disconnecting the plug and socket during coupling and disconnection of the semi-trailer and tractor. In this sense, the term "connecting device" therefore includes at least a plug or a socket. For safety reasons, the energized end of the plug-in coupling system on the tractor is typically designed as a socket, while the corresponding plug is located on the semi-trailer. In particular, the socket is located in a fixed position below the inlet opening of the fifth wheel coupling plate, thus situated in a protected area and not colliding with the kingpin during insertion. The connecting device (typically a plug) is typically located on the underside of a support frame or in a cavity within the support frame.

[0026] As a support frame, the drive unit performs a dual function. It ensures that the connecting device can pivot about the kingpin and, in the process, always face the corresponding connecting unit of the tractor. Advantageously, for this purpose, the projection of the support frame onto the horizontal plane has a wedge-shaped or V-shaped structure, which is at least partially complementary to the wedge-shaped inlet opening, such that upon insertion, the support frame is oriented relative to the fifth wheel coupling plate in a defined manner through form-fitting. In this way, the drive unit, in the form of a support frame, also includes a centering element to transmit the relative rotation between the kingpin and the fifth wheel plate to the relative motion between the angle sensor and the angle encoder with the smallest possible clearance.

[0027] Furthermore, it is known that the plug is arranged on a base plate of a support frame, which is elastically mounted vertically relative to the support frame. During the coupling of the trailer until the connection between the plug and socket is finally established, the spring-loaded base plate or plug is guided in the inlet opening area by abutting against the introduction auxiliary structure, thereby automatically positioning the vertical direction and ensuring any necessary height compensation.

[0028] The support frame preferably has a support element that is axially spaced from the rotatable bearing ring or rotatable bearing ring segment, and the support element is directly supported on the kingpin.

[0029] A rotatable bearing ring or segment, together with a fixed bearing ring or segment, forms an axial-radial swivel bearing, i.e., the upper suspension of the support frame, which provides only one degree of rotational freedom for the support frame. The position of the support frame is determined radially and axially by the swivel bearing relative to the kingpin (and thus relative to the semi-trailer deck). However, due to its total radial length and the unfavorable levering effect at its free plug-side end, the support frame may tilt downwards, especially with wear. This can only be partially counteracted by strengthening the bearing structure and the rigidity of the support frame, especially since these components should be designed to be as lightweight as possible. Therefore, a support element is provided that counteracts tilting by forming a lower support of the support frame on the kingpin at a location axially spaced from the plane of the swivel bearing (defined by the plane containing the overlapping sliding surfaces of the bearing ring / bearing ring segment). The support element is supported on the kingpin, particularly preferably on the upper or lower collar of the kingpin, and transmits any tilting torque to the kingpin. As a result, the vertical positions of the support frame and plug relative to the kingpin and semi-trailer plate are determined, ensuring that the coupling process can be safely carried out in the manner described by vertical and horizontal guidance.

[0030] Further preferably, the length of the support element is adjustable in the radial direction relative to the axis of rotation.

[0031] Due to wear, especially in the case of retrofitting or replacing the kingpin assembly, the relative assembly of the connecting elements and the kingpin may change due to manufacturing tolerances, which could jeopardize secure coupling despite the aforementioned support. The radially adjustable support element provides an option to adjust the tilt of the support frame. This allows for fine adjustment of the vertical position of the plug relative to the socket, thereby compensating for manufacturing tolerances, wear, etc., ensuring that coupling can proceed securely and in the proper manner.

[0032] The support element preferably has a sliding surface that contacts the kingpin. Since the support element is a separate component, its function as a sliding element can be easily optimized. Particularly preferred is that the sliding surface is formed of a friction-reducing material. In this sense, the sliding element can be made primarily of a friction-reducing material (referred to as a solid lubricant) or can have a coating of such a material. Friction-reducing materials refer to materials containing tribologically effective fillers, i.e., so-called solid lubricants, such as preferably graphite, PTFE, MoS2, h-BN, lead, tin, etc., thus exhibiting a lower coefficient of friction when interacting with the kingpin than unfilled aluminum or steel materials typically used for support frames. As a base material for such a solid lubricant or coating, plastics, bronze, or aluminum can be considered, for example.

[0033] Also preferably, the support element therefore has a plastic matrix, particularly a thermoplastic material, such as polyethylene (PE), polyamide (PA), polypropylene (PP), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI), polyoxymethylene (POM), and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymer, at least along the sliding surface.

[0034] The kingpin preferably has a cylindrical side surface of radius r arranged coaxially about the axis of rotation, on which the support element rests. Again, it should be noted that a circumferential cylindrical segment is sufficient due to the limited rotational angle of the fifth wheel coupling; however, typically the kingpin has one—or multiple—circumferential cross-sections due to its necessary necking—over its entire axial range, and in this sense, at least one cylindrical side surface on which the support element can rest. Since the necessary necking is for locking with the fifth wheel coupling plate, the kingpin may optionally be supported above (the so-called upper collar) or below (the so-called lower collar) the necking.

[0035] The sliding surface is preferably geometrically configured to center the support element relative to the kingpin in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation. This is advantageously achieved by the sliding surface forming a V-shaped profile in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, or by the sliding surface forming a concave surface with radius r′, wherein r′ is between r-5mm and r+5mm, more preferably between r-1mm and r+5mm, and particularly preferably between r and r+5mm. In both cases, the tangential position of the sliding surface relative to the axis of rotation or the cylindrical surface of the kingpin is determined.

[0036] The support element is preferably connected to the support frame via a connecting element whose length is radially adjustable relative to the axis of rotation. The connecting element, as part of the support element, provides its radial adjustability. Particularly preferred is that the support element is connected to the support frame via a threaded rod (as the connecting element) extending radially relative to the axis of rotation. Alternative embodiments provide combinations of pins or rods with clamping elements or clamping screws instead of threaded rods, combinations of rods with elongated holes with connecting screws, toggle assemblies, or toothed or bayoneted elements (e.g., racks and corresponding engaging parts).

[0037] The support frame preferably has a transverse strut, on which an adjustable-length connecting element and / or threaded rod is supported. The transverse strut extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation and extends substantially tangentially at a sufficient distance from the kingpin to allow for adjustment of the length of the support element.

[0038] The retaining bearing ring or retaining bearing ring segment is preferably fastened directly to the kingpin flange. This allows the kingpin assembly to be easily replaced or modified without structural alterations to the semi-trailer itself. For example, the old kingpin can be unscrewed from the semi-trailer deck, and a new kingpin (along with the swivel bearing and support frame) with the same hole pattern at the kingpin flange can be installed in its place.

[0039] The fixed bearing ring or fixed bearing ring segment is preferably arranged radially inward relative to the axis of rotation, while the rotatable bearing ring or rotatable bearing ring segment is arranged radially outward. This also facilitates easy replacement or modification of the kingpin assembly, while providing optimal rotational guidance, as described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] The support frame is preferably provided with a spacer that protrudes upward along the axis of rotation, the spacer being configured to support the support frame indirectly or directly on the semi-trailer.

[0041] The length-adjustable support element is preferably configured such that the support frame is supported on the semi-trailer deck by spacers, thereby reducing the vibration tendency of the support frame and more accurately determining the position of the free end of the support frame where the connecting device is arranged. To avoid mechanical prestress when the support frame rotates about the kingpin, the support element is advantageously aligned with the lowest point of the semi-trailer deck area that the support frame can sweep over when rotating.

[0042] The rotatable bearing ring or rotatable bearing ring segment advantageously has a cylindrical wall segment extending along the axis of rotation, on which a support frame is fixed. The cylindrical wall segment forms a vertical connection from the axially rotating bearing plane to the support frame, and is also suitable for forming a transverse support for supporting adjustable-length connecting elements and / or threaded rods.

[0043] The width of the cylindrical wall segment in the tangential direction is preferably less than (2.1×r), so as the innermost radial part of the V-shaped support element, it participates in guiding the connecting device during the coupling process.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the support element is configured to be elastically deformable at least in the radial direction relative to the axis of rotation, and / or has a spring element acting in that direction, such that the support element is supported on the kingpin under an adjustable preload. The spring element can be, for example, a helical compression spring, a stack of disc springs, or an elastically deformable plastic body. This configuration, combined with the length adjustment of the support element, allows for targeted preload settings, ensuring that the support element is always supported on the kingpin with a constant contact pressure, thereby ensuring that the support frame is always supported on the semi-trailer board with a constant contact pressure. As a result, any prestress in the support frame is reduced, while vibrations of the support frame can be better damped.

[0045] In one embodiment, the angle sensor is disposed on or in the support element.

[0046] The angle encoder is preferably arranged on or along the circumferential surface of the kingpin.

[0047] The support contact of the support element on the kingpin ensures that the circumferential surface of the kingpin is free from dust or other interference at the location scanned or read by the sensor, so that the sensor always outputs a basically constant and interference-free signal.

[0048] Alternatively, the angle encoder is preferably arranged on or along the surface of the fixed bearing ring, or the angle encoder is arranged on or along the surface of the kingpin flange.

[0049] Accordingly, the angle sensor can preferably be disposed on or in the rotatable bearing ring, or the angle sensor can be disposed on or in the rotatable bearing ring segment. Attached Figure Description

[0050] These, and other features and advantages of the invention, will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0051] Figure 1 A perspective sectional view of a first embodiment of the kingpin assembly is shown;

[0052] Figure 2 It shows that according to Figure 1 Side sectional view of the main drive assembly;

[0053] Figure 3 A perspective sectional view of a second embodiment of the kingpin assembly is shown;

[0054] Figure 4 A perspective sectional view of a third embodiment of the kingpin assembly is shown;

[0055] Figure 5 A perspective sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the kingpin assembly is shown;

[0056] Figure 6 A perspective sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the kingpin assembly is shown;

[0057] Figure 7 A side sectional view of a sixth embodiment of the kingpin assembly is shown;

[0058] Figure 8 The main assembly is shown below;

[0059] Figure 9 The main pin assembly with a support frame is shown below;

[0060] Figure 10 An exploded view of the mains assembly is shown; and

[0061] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the kingpin assembly according to the present invention is shown in a side view. Detailed Implementation

[0062] Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figures 8 to 10 A kingpin assembly 1 for a semi-trailer used in an articulated vehicle is shown, including a kingpin 2 defining a rotation axis A, a swivel bearing 3 disposed about the rotation axis A, and a support frame 4 connected to the swivel bearing 3 and pivotable about the rotation axis A. In this multi-part embodiment, the support frame 4 has a mounting base with a cylindrical wall section 16 and two fork-shaped retaining arms 21 extending substantially radially from the cylindrical wall section 16.

[0063] A protective cover 22 is provided on the upper side of the support frame 4. Below the protective cover 22, a connecting device is provided inside the support frame. This connecting device is located at the free end 23 of the support frame 4 and is indirectly attached to it via a base plate. This connecting device is typically in the form of a plug (not shown). The cross-section of the support frame 4 is formed into a V-shaped frame structure, and its sides are adapted to the angle of the correspondingly configured inlet opening.

[0064] The kingpin 2 has a kingpin flange 6 for mounting the kingpin 2 to the semi-trailer, and more specifically, for mounting the kingpin 2 to a disc 18 welded to the semi-trailer plate 24. Mounting is performed, as is known in the art, by bolts 25 arranged in a circular pattern along the flange 6. The disc 18 has an upwardly recessed recess 26 in which portions of the kingpin flange 6 and the swivel bearing 3 are accommodated. The total dimension of the depth of the recess 26 plus the thickness of the semi-trailer plate 24 is set such that, except for the cylindrical wall section 16 integrally formed with the support frame 4, the swivel bearing 3 does not protrude from the underside of the semi-trailer plate 24.

[0065] In addition, the kingpin, in a manner known to exist, comprises, from top to bottom, an upper collar 27, a necked portion 28, and a lower collar 29. The upper collar 27, the necked portion 28, and the lower collar 29 all have a basic cylindrical shape. At the upper collar, the radius of the kingpin is r. The necked portion 28 is the part that engages with the locking part of the fifth wheel coupling plate.

[0066] The swivel bearing 3 includes a bearing ring 7 fixed relative to the kingpin 2 and a bearing ring 8 rotatable relative to it. The fixed bearing ring 7 is directly fixed to the kingpin flange by bolts 30. By screwing the flange 3 onto the welded disc 7 and screwing the fixed bearing ring 31 onto the flange 3, the entire kingpin assembly 1 or only a portion of the swivel bearing 3 can be easily replaced. Especially during retrofitting, no structural modifications to the semi-trailer are required because the kingpin assembly 1 according to the invention can be easily installed in the location of the old kingpin assembly. This is ensured not only by the same bolted connection but also by the small installation space required for the swivel bearing 3 together with the support frame 4. For this reason, it is also advantageous, as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown in particular, the fixed bearing ring 7 is arranged radially inside the axis of rotation A, while the rotatable bearing ring 8 is arranged radially outside the axis of rotation.

[0067] The rotatable bearing ring 8 and the fixed bearing ring 7 together form an axial-radial rotary bearing. In the axial direction, the bearing is provided by axially sliding surfaces of the bearing rings 7 and 8 stacked on top of each other. These sliding surfaces define a "plane of rotation" or "rotation bearing plane" 32; see also... Figure 4 In the radial direction, the bearing rings support each other along the cylindrical surface 34, thereby restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the support frame 4 to pure rotation. Along its outer circumferential surface, the rotatable bearing ring 8 has a reinforcing edge 36 that is recessed in the circumferential direction.

[0068] The support frame 4 is fixed to the rotatable bearing ring 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the support frame 4 and its cylindrical wall section 16 are integrally formed on the rotatable bearing ring 8. The cylindrical wall section thus forms a vertical connection from the axial rotatable bearing plane 32 to the support frame 4. The position of the support frame 4 is therefore determined radially and axially by the rotatable bearing 3 relative to the kingpin 2 and the semi-trailer plate 24.

[0069] To prevent the support frame 4 from tilting downwards due to its total radial length, or to minimize tilting, the kingpin assembly 1 is provided with a support element 9. The support element 9 is connected to the support frame 4 via a connecting element 12 whose length is adjustable in the radial direction R relative to the axis of rotation A. The support element 9 is arranged axially spaced below the plane 32 containing the rotary bearing 3 and is directly supported on the circumference or cylindrical side 11 of the upper collar 27 of the kingpin 2, which is coaxially arranged about the axis of rotation A. While the necked portion 28 must be completely free to lock with the fifth wheel coupling plate, in an alternative embodiment, the support element 9 may also support itself on the lower collar 29, which creates a larger lever and provides more robust support.

[0070] In this example, the connecting element 12 is implemented as a threaded rod 13, which is screwed radially outward into a cylindrical wall section 16 (forming a transverse support 14) and supported thereon. Alternatively, it can also be fixed thereon, for example, by material bonding or friction connection. On the other side, the threaded rod 12 is screwed into a metal block 40 of the support element 9 and locked with a nut 42. As part of the support element 9, the threaded rod 12 provides its adjustability in the radial direction R. If the support element elongates in the radial direction (e.g., by unscrewing the threaded rod), the support frame 4 rises at its free end 23 (where the connecting device or plug, not shown, is located), and conversely, screwing in the threaded rod causes its free end to lower. In this way, the support frame can be precisely adjusted, for example, to accommodate the wear of the kingpin and the structural tolerances of the support frame, plug, or semi-trailer deck, so that the plug can precisely reach its target vertical position.

[0071] The support element 9 also has a sliding surface 10 that is in direct contact with the cylindrical surface 11 of the kingpin 2. This sliding surface is formed on a plastic block 44, which is in turn bonded or otherwise fixed to the metal block 40 of the support element 9. The plastic block 44 has a plastic matrix in which tribologically effective filler particles can be dispersed to reduce the coefficient of friction when interacting with the surface of the kingpin 2.

[0072] The sliding surface 10 is formed as a concave curved surface with a radius of r', thereby orienting the support element 9 in the tangential direction relative to the axis of rotation A or the cylindrical surface 11 of the kingpin 2.

[0073] An angle sensor 52, in the form of a non-contact magnetic field sensor, is disposed within the support element 9. The angle sensor 52 is oriented radially toward the cylindrical side 11 of the kingpin 2. In this embodiment, the support frame 4, together with the support element 9, forms a drive member on which the angle sensor 52 is disposed. An angle encoder 54, in the form of annular strip magnetic segments, is embedded flush with the circumferential surface along the circumferential surface or cylindrical side 11 of the kingpin 2, more specifically in the region of the upper collar 27. The angle sensor 52 is oriented toward the angle encoder 54. The angle encoder 54 preferably includes a circumferentially varying pattern of magnetic segments such that when the support frame 4 pivots about the kingpin 2 and the angle sensor 52 scans the angle encoder 54, the angle sensor 52 generates a signal that can be assigned to the corresponding angular position. In this example, the signal is transmitted radially to a plug (not shown) via a signal line 56 and can be transmitted through the plug to the coupled tractor vehicle. The signal line may also be routed, or additionally, directly inside the semi-trailer to a processor that processes the signal, for example, for controlling the steering shaft or driver assistance systems.

[0074] according to Figures 3 to 7 The exemplary embodiment of the main pin assembly 1 and according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first exemplary embodiment has the same structural design, differing only in the positions of the angle sensor 52 and the angle encoder 54.

[0075] According to Figure 3 In the second exemplary embodiment, the angle sensor 52 is also arranged in the support element 9, but this time it is oriented axially toward the kingpin flange 6 and is radially distanced from the rotation axis A by r1. The angle encoder 54 is correspondingly arranged flush with or inside the kingpin flange 6 in the form of a magnetic segment, and is also radially distanced from the rotation axis A by r1.

[0076] According to Figure 4 In the third exemplary embodiment, the angle sensor 52 is also arranged in the support element 9, this time oriented axially toward the fixed bearing ring 7, and radially distanced from the rotation axis A by r2. Correspondingly, the angle encoder 54 is arranged flush with or inside the fixed bearing ring 7 in the form of a magnetic segment, and also radially distanced from the rotation axis A by r2.

[0077] According to Figure 5 In the fourth exemplary embodiment, the angle sensor 52 is arranged in the rotatable bearing ring 8 and oriented radially inward toward the fixed bearing ring 7. The angle encoder 54 is correspondingly arranged in the form of magnetic segments along the outer circumferential surface of the fixed bearing ring 7.

[0078] According to Figure 6 In the fifth exemplary embodiment, the angle sensor 52 is also arranged in the rotatable bearing ring 8, but this time it is oriented axially toward the kingpin flange 6 and is radially distanced from the rotation axis A by r3. The angle encoder 54 is correspondingly arranged flush with the kingpin flange 6 in the form of magnetic segments and is also radially distanced from the rotation axis A by r3.

[0079] According to Figure 7In the sixth exemplary embodiment, the angle sensor 52 and the angle encoder 54 are arranged concentrically with the axis of rotation A at the lower end of the master pin 2. More specifically, the angle encoder 54, in the form of a magnetic assembly, is inserted into a countersunk hole at the lower end of the master pin 2. The master pin 2 also has a gap 55 at its lower end, in which the angle sensor 52 is inserted without protruding axially. This is important to protect the sensor from mechanical stress, such as preventing contact with the fifth wheel plate during coupling. In this example, the angle sensor 52 is rotatably fixed to the support frame 4 by a retaining bracket 58, which is also located within the gap 55 on the first radial segment to prevent mechanical load. For the purposes of this teaching, the retaining bracket 58 is considered part of the support frame 4 and therefore part of the drive element. The sensor 52 is oriented axially toward the angle encoder 54 and can only rotate relative to it about the axis of rotation A. The angle encoder 54 includes a pattern of magnetic segments that varies radially, such that when the support frame 4 pivots about the master pin 2, causing the angle sensor 52 to rotate relative to the angle encoder 54, the angle sensor 52 generates a signal that can be assigned to the corresponding angular position. In its simplest case, the pattern of magnetic segments varying in the radial direction can be a radially oriented dipole magnet. However, for good angular resolution, it is preferable to arrange multiple varying magnetic segments along a circular line. In this example, the signal is also transmitted via signal line 56, which is protected by the retaining bracket 58 at its first radial segment within the retaining bracket 58.

[0080] Figure 11 The kingpin assembly according to the invention is schematically shown, wherein the support frame 4 extends outward in the radial direction and is provided with a spacer 46 that protrudes upward from it along the axis of rotation A, the spacer 46 supporting the support frame 4 on the semi-trailer deck 24 of the semi-trailer.

[0081] The connecting device 48 is arranged inside the free end 23 of the support frame 4, as shown by the dashed line.

[0082] In this embodiment, the support element 9 has a spring element 50 acting in a radial direction R relative to the axis of rotation A. The spring element 50 is schematically shown and can be, for example, a helical compression spring, a stack of disc springs, or an elastically deformable plastic body. Combined with the length adjustment of the support element 9, this allows for targeted preload to be set, ensuring that the support element 9 is always supported on the kingpin 2 with a constant contact pressure via the spacer 46, thereby ensuring that the support frame 4 is always supported on the semi-trailer deck 24 with a constant contact pressure via the spacer 46.

[0083] List of reference numerals

[0084] 1. Main assembly

[0085] 2 main sales

[0086] 3 Rotary bearings

[0087] 4 Support Frame

[0088] 6 main pin flange

[0089] 7 Fixed bearing ring

[0090] 8 rotatable bearing rings

[0091] 9 Supporting Components

[0092] 10 Sliding Surfaces

[0093] 11 Cylindrical side surface

[0094] 12 connecting elements

[0095] 13 threaded rod

[0096] 14 Horizontal Supports

[0097] 16 cylindrical wall segments

[0098] 18 discs

[0099] 21 Keep Arm

[0100] 22 Protective Cover

[0101] 23 Free ends (supporting the frame)

[0102] 24 semi-trailer flatbed

[0103] 25 bolts

[0104] 26 recesses

[0105] 27 Upper collar

[0106] 28. Neck section

[0107] 29 Lower collar

[0108] 30 bolts

[0109] 32 Rotating plane / Rotating bearing plane

[0110] 34 cylindrical surface

[0111] 36 Enhanced Edges

[0112] 40 metal blocks

[0113] 42 nuts

[0114] 44 plastic blocks

[0115] 46 spacers

[0116] 48 connecting devices

[0117] 50 spring elements

[0118] 52 Angle Sensor

[0119] 54-angle encoder

[0120] 55 gap

[0121] 56 signal lines

[0122] 58 retainer

[0123] A axis of rotation

[0124] r radius

[0125] R radial direction

Claims

1. A kingpin assembly (1) for a semi-trailer of an articulated vehicle, comprising a kingpin (2) defining a rotation axis (A), a rotary bearing (3) disposed about the rotation axis (A), and a drive member connected to the rotary bearing (3) and pivotable about the rotation axis (A). in, The kingpin (2) has a kingpin flange (6) for mounting the kingpin (2) indirectly or directly on the semi-trailer. The rotary bearing (3) has a fixed bearing ring (7) or a fixed bearing ring segment that is fixed relative to the kingpin (2), and a rotatable bearing ring (8) or a rotatable bearing ring segment that is rotatable relative to the kingpin (2). The driving component is fixed to the rotatable bearing ring (8) or the rotatable bearing ring segment. The feature is that, on the one hand, on the main pin (2) or the fixed bearing ring (7) or the fixed bearing ring segment, and on the other hand, on the rotatable bearing ring (8) or the rotatable bearing ring segment or the drive member, one of a pair of elements consisting of an angle sensor and an angle encoder is respectively provided.

2. The main pin assembly (1) according to claim 1, Its features are, The angle sensor is disposed on the rotatable bearing ring (8) or the rotatable bearing ring segment or on the drive member, and the angle encoder is disposed on the master pin (2) or on the fixed bearing ring (7) or the fixed bearing ring segment.

3. The main assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The drive unit includes a centering element configured to center the drive unit in the inlet opening of the fifth wheel plate of the traction vehicle.

4. The main assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The angle sensor is a non-contact measurement sensor, particularly a magnetic field or Hall sensor, a capacitive sensor, or an optical sensor.

5. The main assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The angle encoder includes a magnetized pattern, an optically detectable marking pattern, a tactile marking pattern, or a combination of these patterns.

6. The main assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The angle encoder includes a pattern that varies in the circumferential and / or radial directions.

7. The main pin assembly (1) according to claim 5 or 6, Its features are, The pattern defines the center position.

8. The main assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The angle sensor includes a wheel, and the angle encoder includes a contact surface, the wheel being supported on the contact surface by frictional engagement.

9. The main assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The drive unit is designed as a support frame (4) for indirectly or directly holding, in particular, electrical and / or electromagnetic and / or pneumatic and / or hydraulic connection devices for connection to the corresponding connection unit of the traction vehicle.

10. The main assembly (1) according to claim 9, Its features are, The support frame (4) has a support element (9) that is axially spaced from the rotatable bearing ring (8) or the rotatable bearing ring segment, and the support element (9) is directly supported on the kingpin (2).

11. The main pin assembly (1) according to claim 10, Its features are, The support element (9) is length-adjustable in the radial direction (R) relative to the axis of rotation (A).

12. The main pin assembly (1) according to claim 10 or 11, Its features are, The angle sensor is disposed on the support element (9) or disposed in the support element (9).

13. The mains assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The angle encoder is disposed on the circumferential surface of the master pin (2) or along the circumferential surface of the master pin (2), or the angle encoder is disposed on the surface of the master pin flange (6) or along the surface of the master pin flange (6).

14. The mains assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The angle encoder is disposed on the surface of the fixed bearing ring (7) or along the surface of the fixed bearing ring (7), or the angle encoder is disposed on the surface of the kingpin flange (6) or along the surface of the kingpin flange (6).

15. The main assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The angle sensor is disposed on or in the rotatable bearing ring (8), or the angle sensor is disposed on or in the rotatable bearing ring segment.

Images