Device and system for lifting vehicle and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (2) for lifting a vehicle (1), in particular a caravan or a motor home, the device (2) having a lifting unit (6), the lifting unit (6) comprising a plurality of profile elements, in particular comprising three profile elements, which are arranged coaxially with respect to one another, the invention relates to a lifting unit (6) comprising a plurality of profile elements (7) and which are telescopically movable relative to each other, defining a longitudinal axis (X) such that the profile elements can be moved between a retracted position and an extended position, thereby changing the effective length of the device (2), and a drive device connected to the profile elements, the drive device comprises a spindle drive device (19) for driving the profile elements to move relative to each other and adjusting the effective length of the device (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a device for lifting vehicles, and more particularly to a device for lifting caravans or motorhomes, the device having a lifting unit.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a system comprising a plurality of such devices, and to a vehicle equipped with such a system, particularly a caravan or motorhome equipped with such a system. Background Technology

[0003] Often, campsites (such as commercial or wilderness campsites) do not have perfectly level ground. Therefore, it is difficult for RVs or campervans to stand perfectly level, which reduces user comfort. Thus, achieving a level position may be difficult, or even impossible, making it particularly uncomfortable for users to lie down or sleep in such vehicles.

[0004] To avoid this problem, specialized leveling systems have been developed. These systems can be installed on the underside of the vehicle and lift it to a level position. Such systems preferably include multiple devices, each comprising a lifting unit, arranged at different locations on the underside of the vehicle. The effective length of each device / lifting unit can be varied to lift the vehicle at different points, thereby achieving a perfect fit between the vehicle and the ground, enabling the vehicle to reach a level position.

[0005] The existing system comprises multiple units, each with a lifting unit equipped with a hydraulic system. This hydraulic system is characterized by a high power-to-weight ratio, but it is also expensive and requires significant maintenance. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Based on this, the object of the present invention is to provide an alternative device and system for lifting vehicles, particularly an alternative device and system for lifting caravans or motorhomes, which is particularly easy to operate, reliable in performance, and preferably requires little maintenance.

[0007] As previously described, this objective is achieved by a device for lifting a vehicle, wherein the lifting unit comprises a plurality of profile elements, specifically three profile elements, which are arranged coaxially relative to each other and are telescopically movable relative to each other, thereby defining a longitudinal axis. This allows the profile elements to move between a retracted position and an extended position to change the effective length of the device. The lifting unit also includes a drive mechanism connected to the profile elements, thereby allowing the profile elements to move relative to each other and adjust the effective length of the device. The drive mechanism includes a spindle drive mechanism. Preferably, the device is mounted between the underside of the vehicle to be lifted and the ground.

[0008] This invention is based on the concept of a telescopic device comprising a plurality of profile elements. These profile elements may be made of extruded aluminum profiles and are telescopically movable relative to each other. In other words, in the retracted position, the profile elements are arranged such that one profile element is inside another, resulting in a relatively short effective length of the device. To lift a vehicle, the profile elements are telescopically moved toward their extended position to increase the effective length of the device, in which the device is supported on the ground. Thus, if the lifting unit consists of exactly three profile elements, one profile element can be considered as an upper profile element, one profile element as a middle profile element, and one profile element as a lower profile element. These definitions refer to the extended position, in which the device is connected to the vehicle and the longitudinal axis extends at least substantially vertically. When the profile elements are in the retracted position, the upper profile element preferably corresponds to the outer profile element and the lower profile element preferably corresponds to the inner profile element relative to the longitudinal axis. The effective length can be defined as the total length of the device, that is, the distance between the bottom of the vehicle and the lowest end of the device when the device is installed on the vehicle. Alternatively, the effective length can also be defined as the total length of the profile element, that is, the distance between the upper end of the upper profile element and the lower end of the lower profile element.

[0009] A drive mechanism can be provided, comprising at least one spindle drive, particularly exactly one spindle drive. Therefore, the movement of the profile element between the retracted and extended positions is achieved via the spindle drive rather than a hydraulic system, reducing maintenance workload and improving cost-effectiveness. The spindle drive is characterized in that each stage includes a spindle with external threads and a corresponding spindle nut meshing with the spindle, so that when the spindle rotates relative to the spindle nut, the rotational motion of the spindle is converted into the axial motion of the spindle nut. The spindle drive is preferably self-locking or self-resisting, which specifically means that the spindle nut cannot accidentally rotate relative to the spindle. In this case, no specific brake is needed to prevent accidental movement of the spindle nut relative to the corresponding spindle, thereby preventing accidental changes in the effective length of the device.

[0010] Profile elements may include guiding devices for guiding movement of the profile elements relative to each other. These guiding devices may include protrusions and recesses, particularly protrusions and recesses extending in a longitudinal direction. Specifically, the inner side of the outer profile element may include protrusions that engage with corresponding guide recesses formed in the middle profile element. Similarly, the middle profile element may include guide protrusions that engage with corresponding guide recesses formed in the inner profile element.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment, the spindle drive device is configured as a multi-stage spindle drive device, particularly a two-stage spindle drive device. This multi-stage spindle drive device enables stable motion and reduces spindle wear.

[0012] Specifically, the spindle drive may include a first spindle and a first spindle nut, the first spindle being rotatably fixed to an upper profile element, and the first spindle nut engaging with the first spindle and axially fixedly connected to another profile element (particularly to a middle profile element). In this way, the rotational motion of the first spindle can be converted into the axial motion of the other profile element, particularly the rotational motion of the first spindle can be converted into the axial motion of the middle profile element relative to the upper profile element.

[0013] The spindle drive may include a second spindle and a second spindle nut. The second spindle is rotatably fixed to a profile element, particularly a middle profile element. The second spindle nut engages with the second spindle and is connected to another profile element, particularly a lower profile element, in both an axially and rotatably fixed manner. This converts the rotational motion of the second spindle into axial displacement of the other profile elements, specifically into axial displacement of the lower profile element relative to the middle profile element. This two-stage spindle drive, particularly connected to three profile elements that are telescopically movable relative to each other, saves space and weight, and significantly reduces wear compared to a single-stage spindle drive.

[0014] The first spindle nut is rotatably fixed to the middle profile element. Specifically, the first spindle nut is rotatably fixed to a sleeve formed on or fixed to the middle profile element, and the first spindle nut is rotatably connected to the second spindle. According to this embodiment, the two-stage spindle drive can have one degree of freedom because it is open to whether, when the profile element moves from its retracted position to its extended position, the lower profile element moves first relative to the middle profile element, or the middle profile element moves first relative to the upper profile element.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, one of the spindles can be formed as a hollow spindle, particularly the second spindle, while the other spindle can be radially arranged inside the second spindle when the profile element is in the retracted position, particularly the first spindle. The first spindle can also be considered as an upper spindle, and can be made of solid material. When the profile element is in the extended position, the second spindle constituting the lower spindle may have an internal through-hole with a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first spindle.

[0016] A stop device may be provided to limit the axial movement of the first spindle nut relative to the first spindle. This prevents the spindle nut from becoming loose from the spindle. Preferably, the stop device includes a radial protrusion located at the bottom end of the first spindle. The radial protrusion may be integrally designed with the first spindle, or it may serve as a plate fixed to the first spindle, particularly as a plate fixed to the first spindle with screws.

[0017] To limit the movement of the second spindle nut relative to the second spindle, an additional stop device can be provided.

[0018] Bearing assemblies may be provided for rotatably securing the first and second spindles to (corresponding) profile elements. These bearing assemblies may include roller bearings, particularly axial and / or radial roller bearings.

[0019] The drive unit may include an electrically powered drive motor in which the motor axis extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. In other words, the motor may be arranged such that its motor axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis determined by the expansion and contraction displacement of the profile element.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, a transmission device is provided for converting the rotational motion of a drive motor into the rotational motion of the spindle of a spindle drive device, particularly converting the rotational motion of the drive motor into the rotational motion of the internal spindle and / or the first spindle of the spindle drive device. Specifically, the transmission device may include planetary gears, particularly one or two stages of planetary gears. Such planetary gears can achieve a high transmission ratio, thereby converting the relatively high speed of the drive motor into a relatively low speed of the planetary gear output shaft. The planetary gears are preferably arranged coaxially with the motor axis. The planetary gears and the drive motor can be integrally formed as a structural unit.

[0021] The transmission device may include a sprocket drive, in which one sprocket is rotatably fixed to the spindle of the spindle drive, specifically, one sprocket is rotatably fixed to the first spindle and / or upper spindle and / or inner spindle of the spindle drive, and the other sprocket may be connected to the output shaft of the drive motor or planetary gear. In other words, the distance between the output shaft (preferably parallel to the spindle drive and / or longitudinal axis) and the spindle of the spindle drive is bridged by the sprocket drive.

[0022] Preferably, the drive unit includes a manual operating device arranged and designed to allow the operator to manually adjust the effective length of the lifting unit without using the drive motor. The concept underlying this embodiment is that even when the drive motor is unavailable (e.g., without available electrical power), the operator can relatively move the profile element to adjust the effective length of the device.

[0023] Specifically, the operating device may include an engagement profile, particularly one with a square or hexagonal cross-section, allowing the operator to engage appropriate tools to change and / or adjust the effective length of the lifting unit. The engagement profile may be arranged on an auxiliary shaft rotatably fixed to the lifting unit. The engagement profile may be connected to the main shaft of the main shaft drive, particularly via a helical gear. Preferably, the engagement profile is connected to the output shaft of a drive motor or planetary gear via a helical gear. According to a preferred embodiment, the auxiliary shaft with the engagement profile is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and / or perpendicular to the output shaft of the drive motor or planetary gear. This ensures that rotation of the engagement profile is translated into rotation of the main shaft of the main shaft drive.

[0024] The device may also include an upper mounting element, which is particularly formed as a plate. The upper mounting element may have mounting means for mounting the device to the underside of the vehicle. Specifically, the mounting means may include a plurality of through holes extending through the mounting element to secure the upper mounting element to the underside of the vehicle.

[0025] The lifting unit is rotatably fixed to the mounting element about a pivot axis between a use position and a transport position. When the device is mounted to a vehicle and in the use position, the longitudinal axis extends at least substantially vertically; when the device is mounted to a vehicle and in the transport position, the longitudinal axis extends at least substantially horizontally. This embodiment is based on the concept that the device should be permanently fixed to the vehicle. When the device is not in use, particularly when the vehicle is in motion, the lifting unit can be in the transport position, in which the longitudinal axis extends at least substantially horizontally. In this position, the device is spaced from the ground, allowing the vehicle to travel on the road. When the device is used to lift a vehicle, particularly when it is used to lift a vehicle at a campsite, the lifting unit can be moved from the transport position to the use position, so that the longitudinal axis extends at least substantially vertically, thereby moving the profile element to its extended position, thus increasing the effective length of the device for lifting the vehicle. In other words, in the use position, the longitudinal direction is from the underside of the vehicle towards the ground.

[0026] To move the lifting unit between a use position and a transport position, the device may include a rotating mechanism. Specifically, the rotating mechanism is designed and arranged to convert the rotational motion of a drive motor and / or spindle into rotational motion of the lifting unit relative to the mounting element. In other words, a specific drive unit may not be required to move the lifting unit from the transport position to the use position, or vice versa. Furthermore, the drive unit can be used not only to move the profile element between a retracted position and an extended position, but also to move the lifting unit between the transport position and the use position.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the rotating mechanism operates such that the lifting unit moves from its transport position to its use position as the profile element moves from its fully retracted position to its extended position. More specifically, the rotating mechanism may include a pressure rod rotatably fixed to a mounting element about a rotation axis spaced apart from a pivot axis. The rotation axis and the pivot axis may extend parallel to each other. The pressure rod may be guided by a guide element, particularly fixed to the lower end portion of the outer profile element / upper profile element. The pressure rod may be arranged such that, as the profile element approaches its retracted position, the pressure rod abuts against a protrusion on the lower profile element (particularly a protrusion formed as an intermediate plate), such that movement of the profile element toward its retracted position causes rotational movement of the lifting unit toward its transport position, while movement of the profile element out of its retracted position (at least close to the fully retracted position) causes rotational movement of the lifting unit toward its use position. In other words, the initial movement of the profile element away from its retracted position not only causes the profile element to move, but also, through the contact between the pressure rod and the corresponding protrusion, causes the lifting unit to rotate about its pivot axis, thereby moving the lifting unit from the transport position to the use position. Once the use position is reached, further movement of the profile element towards its extended position causes the pressure rod to disengage from the protrusion, preventing the lifting unit from rotating relative to the upper mounting element. To prevent accidental rotation of the pressure rod about its axis of rotation, guide elements can be provided, particularly those fixed to the upper profile element and / or the outer profile element, whose purpose is to limit the rotational movement of the pressure rod about its axis of rotation.

[0028] The rotating mechanism may further include a retraction device. Specifically, the retraction device may include a tension spring, one end of which is fixed to a mounting element, and the other end of which is fixed to a profile element, particularly an upper profile element; preferably, the other end of the tension spring is fixed to a guide element. Preferably, viewed from the side, when the lifting unit is in the use position, the longitudinal axis of the pressure rod and the axis of action of the tension spring form an "X" shape. When the lifting unit is in the use position, the tension spring is in a relaxed or nearly relaxed state; when the lifting unit is in the transport position, the tension spring is in an offset state.

[0029] Preferably, the lifting unit further includes a support element that, when the device is installed on a vehicle, serves to support the device against the ground. The support element is rotatably fixed to the lower profile element, wherein the axis of rotation of the support element relative to the lower profile element preferably extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The support element can form a plate, thereby distributing the vehicle's weight over a relatively large surface. This allows the device to be used even when the vehicle is parked on a soft surface.

[0030] The device may also include a control unit arranged and designed to control the position and / or speed of the profile elements relative to each other, thereby controlling the effective length of the device. In particular, the control unit may be arranged and designed to control the rotational direction and speed of the drive motor. The control device preferably includes a communication device arranged and designed to enable communication with a remote control device, particularly via a wireless connection, preferably via Bluetooth. In other words, the rotational direction and speed of the drive motor can be controlled using a remote control device, thereby controlling the effective length of the device. Thus, a vehicle equipped with at least one of these devices can be easily leveled to achieve at least a substantially horizontal position.

[0031] The object of the invention can also be achieved by a system comprising multiple devices, particularly by a system comprising exactly four devices as described above. The communication devices of these devices are preferably designed to communicate with a remote control device. The system may include such a remote control device. In other words, the control unit can be used to control and adjust all devices attached to the vehicle. The remote control device is preferably designed to allow for individual adjustment of the effective length of each device.

[0032] Vehicles, especially caravans or motorhomes, can also achieve the above objectives using this system. Preferably, each component of the system is located near the vehicle's wheels. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Regarding embodiments of the present invention, reference is also made to the dependent claims and the following description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, it is shown that:

[0034] Figure 1 A vehicle equipped with the system of the present invention, wherein the lifting unit of the device is in the transport position;

[0035] Figure 2 Figure 1 The vehicle in which the lifting unit is in use;

[0036] Figure 3 A perspective view of the apparatus of the system according to the present invention;

[0037] Figure 4 Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional side view of the device;

[0038] Figure 5 Figure 3 A perspective view of the device in which the lifting unit is in the transport position;

[0039] Figure 6 Figure 3A partial cross-sectional perspective view of the device;

[0040] Figure 7 Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the drive mechanism of the device;

[0041] Figure 8 Figure 3 A partially exploded perspective view of the upper part of the drive unit of the device;

[0042] Figure 9 Figure 3 A cross-sectional perspective view of the spindle drive mechanism of the device;

[0043] Figure 10 Figure 9 An exploded perspective view of the spindle drive unit shown;

[0044] Figure 11 Cross-sectional perspective view of the lower part of the lifting unit;

[0045] Figure 12 Figure 11 An exploded perspective view of the lower part of the lifting unit shown;

[0046] Figure 13 Figure 3 A perspective view of the profile components of the device;

[0047] Figure 14 Figure 13 A top view of the profile component shown;

[0048] Figure 15 The different positions of the lifting unit relative to the mounting plate when the lifting unit moves from the transport position to the use position;

[0049] Figure 16 The different positions of the lifting unit relative to the mounting plate when the lifting element moves from the use position to the transport position;

[0050] Figure 17 A partial view of a vehicle equipped with the device of the present invention, wherein a tool is engaged with a manual operating device. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A vehicle equipped with the system of the present invention is shown. The system comprises a total of four devices 2 for lifting the vehicle 1, wherein the devices 2 are arranged between the underside of the vehicle 1 and the ground. The devices 2 are positioned close to the wheels 3 of the vehicle.

[0052] Figures 3 to 6The device 2 of the present invention is shown in detail. Each device includes a mounting element 4, which is plate-shaped and has a mounting portion in the form of a plurality of through holes 5 for fixing the device 2 to the underside of the vehicle 1.

[0053] Device 2 also includes a lifting unit 6, which is rotatable about a pivot axis P in a usage position (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 (as shown) and transportation location (e.g., as shown) Figure 5 The lifting unit 6 (as shown) is rotatably fixed to the mounting element 4. According to a preferred embodiment, the mounting element 4 further includes a central opening into which a corresponding protrusion of the lifting unit 6 extends when the lifting unit 6 is in the use position. When the lifting unit 6 is in the use position, its upper surface is in close contact with the bottom surface of the mounting element 4.

[0054] The lifting unit 6 comprises three profile elements 9, 10 and 11, all of which are made of extruded aluminum profiles. Figure 13 and Figure 14 Only profile components 9, 10, and 11 are displayed. Figure 13 and Figure 14 As can be seen, profile elements 9, 10, and 11 are arranged coaxially with each other and can move telescopically relative to each other. Profile elements 9, 10, and 11 define the longitudinal axis X. Profile elements 9, 10, and 11 can be in a retracted position (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 6 (as shown) and the extension position (e.g., as shown) Figure 3 and Figure 4 The device moves between (as shown) to change the effective length of the device 2.

[0055] A profile element 9 constitutes an upper and outer profile element, another profile element 10 constitutes a middle profile element, and a profile element 11 constitutes a lower / inner profile element. Preferably, each profile element has a substantially rectangular or square cross-section. The upper profile element 9 has guide protrusions 12 on its two opposing sidewalls, extending along the longitudinal axis X and projecting inwards towards the inside of the profile element 9. The guide protrusions 12 engage with corresponding guide grooves 13 formed in the middle profile element 10. In this way, the middle profile element 10 is guided as it moves relative to the upper profile element 9. Similarly, but with the middle profile element 10 rotated approximately 90° about the longitudinal axis X, the inner walls of its two opposing sidewalls have inwardly facing guide protrusions 14. The guide protrusions 14 engage with corresponding guide recesses 15 formed in the lower profile element 11. The lower profile element 11 has a central opening 16, which is recessed from the top surface along the longitudinal axis X into the lower profile element 11 and extends to the bottom wall 17, which closes the bottom surface of the lower profile element 11. The upper end of the upper profile element 9 is fixed to the plate-shaped base element 18.

[0056] The lifting unit 6 also includes a drive device connected to the profile elements 9, 10, and 11, thereby moving the profile elements 9, 10, and 11 relative to each other and adjusting the effective length of the device 2.

[0057] The drive unit includes a spindle drive 19, which is shown as a two-stage spindle drive. The spindle drive 19 includes an upper first spindle 20 rotatably fixed to an upper profile element 9, and, according to a preferred embodiment, rotatably fixed to a base element 18. A roller bearing 21 is also provided, mounted in a bearing sleeve 22, which is fixed to the base element 18 with screws. The additionally provided roller bearing 21 supports the first spindle 20 at the upper end plate 23 of the lifting unit 6. Two clamping elements 24a and 24b engage around the spindle 20 and into a retaining groove 25 formed in the spindle 20, for axially securing the spindle 20 to the base element 18.

[0058] The spindle drive also includes a first spindle nut 26 that meshes with the first spindle 20. The first spindle nut 26 is axially fixed to the central profile element 10, but the first spindle nut 26 is rotatably fixed to the central profile element 10. The illustration shows the first spindle nut 26 rotatably fixed to a sleeve 27, which is fixed to the top plate 28 of the central profile element 10. Specifically, as... Figure 11 As shown, the spindle nut is rotatably fixed to the central profile element 10 via an axial roller bearing 29.

[0059] A stop device is used to limit the axial movement of the first spindle nut 26 relative to the first spindle 20, thereby defining its end position. The stop device includes a radial protrusion 30, which is plate-shaped and fixed to the axial end of the first spindle 20 by screws 31. Preferably, a sliding disc 32 is provided above the radial protrusion 30 to prevent accidental blockage when the first spindle nut 26 needs to be moved from its end position.

[0060] The spindle drive device 19 also includes a second spindle 33, which is rotatably fixed to the middle profile element 10 and rotatably connected to the first spindle nut 26. Specifically, the second spindle 33 is connected to the first spindle nut 26 by several radially extending screws. A second spindle nut 34 engages with the second spindle 33 and is axially rotatably connected to the lower profile element 11. Thus, the rotational movement of the second spindle 33 is converted into axial displacement of the lower profile element 11 relative to the middle profile element 10. A top element 35 is attached to the upper end of the lower profile element 11 for fixing the second spindle nut 34.

[0061] For example, from Figure 11 As can be seen, the second spindle 33 is formed as a hollow spindle, while the first spindle 20 is made of solid material. When the profile elements 9, 10, and 11 are in the retracted position, the first spindle 20 is arranged radially inside the second spindle 33.

[0062] The drive unit also includes an electrically powered drive motor 36, wherein the motor axis Y extends parallel to the longitudinal axis X. A transmission device is used to convert the rotational motion of the drive motor 36 into the rotational motion of the first spindle 20 of the spindle drive unit 19. The transmission device includes two stages of planetary gears 37 arranged coaxially with the motor axis Y.

[0063] In addition, the transmission device also includes a sprocket drive 38, in which one sprocket 39 is rotatably fixed (in this example, connected by a flat key) to the first spindle 20, and the other sprocket 40 is rotatably fixed to the output shaft of the planetary gear 37.

[0064] The drive unit also includes a manual operating device, the arrangement and design of which allow the operator to adjust the effective length of the lifting unit 6 or the device 2 without operating the drive motor 36.

[0065] The manual operating device includes an engagement profile 41 with a hexagonal cross-section, which is disposed on an auxiliary shaft 42 rotatably fixed to the wall of the lifting unit 6. Preferably, the axis of the auxiliary shaft 42 is perpendicular to the motor axis Y and / or the longitudinal axis X, and in particular, the axis of the auxiliary shaft 42 is parallel to the pivot axis P.

[0066] The meshing profile 41 is connected to the first main shaft 20, and is shown as meshing profile 41 being connected to the output shaft of planetary gear 32 via helical gear 43.

[0067] The device 2 also includes a support element 44, which supports the device on the ground when it is installed in the vehicle 1. Specifically, the support element 44 is rotatably fixed to the lower profile element 11. The axis of rotation of the support element 44 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. Preferably, the effective length of the device 2 is the same as the distance between the upper end of the mounting element 4 and the lower end of the support element 44.

[0068] Device 2 also includes a rotating mechanism for moving the lifting unit 6 between the use position and the transport position. Figure 15 and Figure 16 The agency was shown in detail, in which Figure 15 This shows the movement of the facility from its transport location to its usage location. Figure 16 The movement of the mechanism from the use position to the transport position is shown. The rotating mechanism is designed and arranged such that the rotational motion of the drive motor 36 and / or the first spindle 20 and / or the second spindle 33 is converted into the rotational motion of the lifting unit 6 relative to the mounting element 4. The rotating mechanism includes a pressure rod 45, which is rotatably fixed to the mounting element 4 about a rotation axis X. The rotation axis X is spaced apart from the pivot axis P, but extends parallel to the pivot axis P. The pressure rod 45 is guided by a guide element 46, which is fixed to the bottom portion of the upper profile element 9. The guide element 46 is arranged to restrict the rotational motion of the pressure rod 45, particularly when the lifting unit is in the use position, such that the pressure rod 45 extends substantially downward.

[0069] The pressure rod 45 is arranged to abut against the protrusion 47, which forms an intermediate plate 48 at the lower profile element 11. When the profile elements 9, 10, and 11 approach their retracted positions, their movement towards these positions causes the lifting unit 6 to rotate toward the transport position. Conversely, the movement of the profile elements 9, 10, and 11 away from their retracted positions causes the lifting unit 6 to rotate toward the use position.

[0070] The rotating mechanism includes a retraction device for moving the lifting unit 6 toward the use position. The retraction device is preferably biased, thereby enabling the movement of the lifting unit 6 toward the use position. The retraction device includes a tension spring 49, one end of which is fixed to the mounting element 4, and the other end to the guide element 46. Viewed from the side, as... Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, when the lifting unit 6 is in the working position, the longitudinal axis of the pressure rod 45 and the action axis of the tension spring 49 form an "X" shape. For example, from Figure 15 bottom and Figure 16 As can be seen from the left side, the rotation axis S of the pressure rod 46 is preferably arranged on the side that is laterally opposite to the upper end of the tension spring 49.

[0071] When device 2 is installed on vehicle 1, such as Figure 1 As shown, the lifting unit 6 is in the transport position, with the longitudinal axis X extending approximately horizontally, allowing the drive motor 36 to begin rotating. For this purpose, the device includes a control unit 50, such as... Figure 6 As shown in the example, the control unit 50 is arranged directly adjacent to the upper profile element 9, and the control unit 50 is designed to control the rotational direction and speed of the drive motor 36. The first spindle 20 is driven to rotate via planetary gears 37 and sprockets 38. Profile elements 9, 10, and 11 are moved away from their retracted positions due to the rotational fixed connection between the first spindle nut 26 and the second spindle 34, and due to the axial and rotational fixed connection between the second spindle nut 34 and the lower profile element 11. In the first stage, as... Figure 15 As shown, due to the retraction force of the tension spring 49 and the movement of the intermediate plate 48 away from the pressure rod 45, the lifting unit 6 begins to rotate relative to the mounting element 4 to its operating position, as... Figure 15 As shown on the right. Once the pressure rod 45 is no longer in contact with the protrusion 47, it will no longer rotate. In this state (as shown on the right). Figure 15 The right side and Figure 16 (As shown on the left), the tension spring 49 is almost in a relaxed state. Furthermore, the upper side of the lifting unit 6 abuts against the lower side of the mounting element 4. The protrusion 8 passes through the central opening 7 formed in the mounting element 4.

[0072] like Figure 2 As shown, further movement of the electric drive motor 36 pushes the profile elements 9, 10, and 11 to their extended positions. In this position, the vehicle 1 is raised from the ground. Specifically, a support plate 44 rests against the ground to support the device 2. This support plate 44 is rotatably fixed to the lower profile element 11.

[0073] Reverse motion, such as Figure 16As shown. Profile elements 9, 10, and 11 move from the extended position to the retracted position. Once the pressure rod 45 abuts against the intermediate plate 48, the profile elements move further to the retracted position, causing the lifting unit 6 to rotate relative to the mounting element 4 towards the transport position. At this time, the tension spring 49 enters the biased state. The rotational movement of the lifting unit 6 relative to the mounting element 4 is as follows. Figure 16 As shown.

[0074] Figure 17 This illustrates a method for driving the device 2 without operating the electric drive motor 36, for example, in the absence of electrical power. The corresponding tool 51 engages with the meshing profile 41, thereby enabling the first spindle 20 to be manually started to rotate via the sprocket drive 38 and the helical gear 43.

[0075] List of reference numerals

[0076] 1 vehicle

[0077] 2. Device

[0078] 3 wheels

[0079] 4 Mounting Components

[0080] 5 through holes

[0081] 6 Lifting Units

[0082] 7. Center opening

[0083] 8. Protrusion

[0084] 9. Upper profile components

[0085] 10. Middle profile components

[0086] 11. Lower profile components

[0087] 12 Guide protrusions

[0088] 13 Guide grooves

[0089] 14 Guide protrusion

[0090] 15 guide recess

[0091] 16 Openings

[0092] 17 Bottom wall

[0093] 18 Base components

[0094] 19 Spindle drive unit

[0095] 20 First spindle

[0096] 21 Roller bearings

[0097] 22 Bearing Sleeve

[0098] 23. Top plate

[0099] 24a, 24b clamping elements

[0100] 25 Fixing slots

[0101] 26 First spindle nut

[0102] 27 Sleeve

[0103] 28 Top Slab

[0104] 29 Axial Roller Bearings

[0105] 30 Radial protrusions

[0106] 31 Screws

[0107] 32 Sliding disks

[0108] 33 Second Main Axis

[0109] 34 Second spindle nut

[0110] 35 Top Components

[0111] 36 Electric drive motors

[0112] 37 Planetary Gears

[0113] 38. Chain drive device

[0114] 39 Sprocket

[0115] 40 sprocket

[0116] 41 Meshing Profile

[0117] 42 Auxiliary axis

[0118] 43 Helical Gears

[0119] 44 Supporting elements

[0120] 45 Pressure bar

[0121] 46 Guiding elements

[0122] 47. Protrusion

[0123] 48 Intermediate Plate

[0124] 49. Tension Spring

[0125] 50 Control Unit

[0126] 51 Tools

[0127] P Pivot axis

[0128] X longitudinal axis

[0129] Y motor axis

[0130] S-axis of rotation

Claims

1. A device (2) for lifting a vehicle (1), particularly a caravan or motorhome, wherein the device (2) has a lifting unit (6), in, The lifting unit (6) includes Multiple profile elements, particularly three profile elements, are arranged coaxially relative to each other and are telescopingly movable relative to each other, thereby defining a longitudinal axis (X) that allows the profile elements to move between a retracted position and an extended position, thereby changing the effective length of the device (2). and a drive device connected to the profile elements to move the profile elements relative to each other and adjust the effective length of the device (2). The drive device includes a spindle drive device (19).

2. The apparatus (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spindle drive device (19) is configured as a multi-stage spindle drive device (19), and in particular, the spindle drive device (19) is configured as a two-stage spindle drive device (19).

3. The apparatus (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The spindle drive device (19) includes a first spindle (20) and a first spindle nut (26). The first spindle (20) is rotatably fixed to the upper profile element (9). The first spindle nut (26) engages with the first spindle (20) and is axially fixed to another profile element. In particular, the first spindle nut (26) is axially fixed to the intermediate profile element (10), such that the rotational motion of the first spindle (20) can be converted into the axial motion of the other profile element. In particular, the rotational motion of the first spindle (20) can be converted into the axial motion of the intermediate profile element (10) relative to the upper profile element (9).

4. The apparatus (2) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The spindle drive device (19) includes a second spindle (33) and a second spindle nut (34). The second spindle (33) is rotatably fixed to a profile element, and in particular, the second spindle (33) is rotatably fixed to a middle profile element (10). The second spindle nut (34) engages with the second spindle and is connected to a lower profile element (11) in an axially fixed and rotationally fixed manner, such that the rotational motion of the second spindle is converted into axial displacement of the lower profile element (11) relative to the middle profile element (10).

5. The apparatus (2) according to claims 3 and 4, characterized in that, The first spindle nut (26) is rotatably fixed to the central profile element (10), and in particular, the first spindle nut (26) is rotatably fixed to the sleeve (27), the sleeve (27) being formed in the central profile element (10) or the sleeve (27) being fixed to the central profile element (10), and the first spindle nut (26) is rotatably fixed to the second spindle (33), wherein, in particular, one of the spindles is formed as a hollow spindle, preferably the second spindle (33) is formed as a hollow spindle, and the other spindle is radially arranged inside the second spindle (33) when the profile element is in the retracted position, preferably the first spindle (20) is radially arranged inside the second spindle (33) when the profile element is in the retracted position.

6. The apparatus (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The drive unit includes an electric drive motor (36) in which the motor axis (Y) extends parallel to the longitudinal axis (X).

7. The apparatus (2) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The device (2) is provided with a transmission device for converting the rotational motion of the drive motor (36) into the rotational motion of the spindle of the spindle drive device (19). In particular, the transmission device includes planetary gears (37), which are preferably single-stage or two-stage planetary gears (37). Preferably, the planetary gears (37) are arranged coaxially with the motor axis (Y). In particular, the transmission device includes a sprocket drive device (38), in which one sprocket (39, 40) is preferably rotatably fixed to the spindle of the spindle drive device (19), and the other sprocket (39, 40) is preferably connected to the output shaft of the planetary gear (37).

8. The apparatus (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The drive device includes a manual operating device arranged and designed to allow an operator to adjust the effective length of the lifting unit (6). In particular, the manual operating device includes an engagement profile (41), preferably having a square or hexagonal cross-section, allowing the operator to engage the corresponding tool (50) to adjust the effective length of the lifting unit (6). Preferably, the engagement profile (41) is connected to the spindle of the spindle drive device (19), particularly via a helical gear (43). More preferably, the engagement profile (41) is connected to the output shaft of a drive motor or planetary gear (37) via the helical gear (43).

9. The apparatus (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The device (2) further includes an upper mounting element (4), which is specifically formed as a plate, wherein the upper mounting element (4) has a mounting device for fixing the device (2) to the underside of the vehicle (1).

10. The apparatus (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that, When the device (2) is installed on the vehicle (1), the lifting unit (6) is rotatably fixed to the mounting element (4) about the pivot axis (P) between the use position and the transport position, wherein the longitudinal axis (X) extends at least substantially vertically in the use position and at least substantially horizontally in the transport position.

11. The apparatus (2) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The device (2) includes a rotating mechanism for moving the lifting unit (6) between a use position and a transport position.

12. The apparatus (2) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism is designed and arranged to convert the rotational motion of the drive motor (36) and / or the spindle (20) into the rotational motion of the lifting unit (6) relative to the mounting element (4).

13. The apparatus (2) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism includes a pressure rod (45) rotatably fixed to a mounting element (4) about a rotation axis (S), wherein the rotation axis (S) is spaced apart from the pivot axis (P), and the pressure rod (45) is guided by a guide element (46), which is specifically fixed to the lower end portion of the outer profile element, and when the profile element approaches the retracted position, the pressure rod (45) is arranged to abut against a protrusion (47) at the lower profile element (11), the protrusion (47) being formed, in particular, as an intermediate plate (48), in the lower profile element (11), thereby guiding the profile element toward its retracted position. The movement causes the lifting unit (6) to rotate toward the transport position, the movement of the profile element away from the retracted position causes the lifting unit (6) to rotate toward its use position, and / or the device (2) is characterized in that the rotating mechanism further includes a retraction device, wherein, in particular, the retraction device includes a tension spring (49), one end of the tension spring (49) is fixed to the mounting element (4), and the other end of the tension spring (49) is fixed to the guide element (46), wherein, viewed from the side, when the lifting unit (6) is in the use position, the longitudinal axis of the pressure rod (45) and the axis of action of the tension spring (49) are preferably formed in an X shape.

14. The apparatus (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The lifting unit (6) includes a support element (44) which, when the device (2) is installed on the vehicle (1), is designed to rest against the ground to support the device (2). In particular, the support element (44) is rotatably fixed to a lower profile element (11), wherein the axis of rotation of the upper profile element preferably extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X). And / or the device (2) is characterized in that it includes a control unit arranged and designed to control the rotation direction and speed of a drive motor. In particular, the control unit includes a communication device arranged and designed to communicate with a remote control unit. In particular, the communication device is capable of communicating with the remote control unit via a wireless connection. Preferably, the communication device is capable of communicating with the remote control unit via a Bluetooth connection.

15. A system comprising a plurality of means (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, particularly comprising four means (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, In particular, the device (2) includes a control unit arranged and designed to control the rotation direction and speed of the drive motor. Preferably, the control unit includes a communication device arranged and designed to communicate with a remote control unit. In particular, the communication device is capable of communicating with the remote control unit via a wireless connection. Preferably, the communication device is capable of communicating with the remote control unit via a Bluetooth connection. Particularly preferably, the communication device of the device (2) is arranged and designed to communicate with a single remote control unit.

16. A vehicle (1) having the system according to claim 15, wherein the vehicle (1) is particularly a caravan or motorhome.

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