Canopy frame for a tarpaulin superstructure

Abstract

Canopy frame for a tarpaulin superstructure, comprising a plurality of sliding struts (91) which can be moved along a longitudinal beam (4) supported against a loading platform (11), wherein a tarpaulin (15) which at least partially closes the side opening (14) of the convertible top frame can be attached to the sliding struts (91), wherein the sliding struts (91) have a slide (91a) at one of their two ends, with which they can be displaced with respect to the longitudinal beam (4), wherein the sliding struts (91) can be fixed to one of the running rails (3) assigned to the loading platform (11), characterized by that the sliding struts (91) can be lifted off the opening (14) by pivoting the slide (91a) on the longitudinal beam (4), and that the sliding struts (91) are held spaced apart from the guide rail (3) by a spacer (93; 93') in the pivoted state.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a canopy frame for a tarpaulin structure and a method for actuating a side tarpaulin guide arrangement.

[0002] EP 2 353 904 A1 describes a tarpaulin frame for a commercial vehicle body, in which a continuous side tarpaulin, closing a side opening of the vehicle body, is attached to sliding posts. The sliding posts are suspended via rollers in a longitudinal beam supported by corner and center posts and are slidable along the longitudinal beam. The side tarpaulin is fixed to the sliding posts and, when the side tarpaulin is pushed together, is folded 180° in the area between two adjacent sliding posts. Horizontally integrated tensile-resistant straps in the side tarpaulin increase its load-bearing capacity. To move the sliding post, it is necessary to manually release a tensioning device associated with each sliding post and then manually release a released hook from a tensioning edge located on a frame rail in the area of ​​the loading platform.Furthermore, an upper section and a lower section of the sliding elements are mutually tensioned by a spring element, so that after releasing the tensioning device, the stanchion is lifted out of a groove-like recess in the frame rail.

[0003] WO 2010 085 202 A1 discloses a convertible top frame for a commercial vehicle body, in which a side wall assembly closing a lateral opening of the commercial vehicle body consists of several side wall sections that are movably guided on an upper longitudinal beam. A sliding rail is provided between each pair of adjacent side wall sections and is movable on rollers along the upper longitudinal beam. Each side wall section has two sliding rails, to which a cover surface made of a plate body is articulated on both sides. The two opposing cover surfaces of the two sliding rails of a side wall section are articulated via a projecting rail, which is not connected to the upper longitudinal beam, along its height.When the side wall is closed, the display stake and the sliding stake are each individually connected to a stake foot on a frame rail provided in the area of ​​the loading platform via a lever hinged to the stake body. The two opposing cover surfaces of the two sliding rails of a side wall section are also hinged to the sliding rail, so that each side wall section can be folded into a package of four cover surfaces lying essentially on top of each other and perpendicular to the plane of the opening.

[0004] DE 91 06 616 U1 discloses a frame for a tarpaulin superstructure, comprising at least one superstructure side post which can be moved along a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform, wherein a tarpaulin which at least partially closes the lateral opening of the frame can be attached to the superstructure side posts, wherein the superstructure side posts have a slide at one of their two ends with which they can be moved relative to the longitudinal beam, wherein the superstructure side post can be fixed to a side wall post associated with the loading platform, and wherein the superstructure side post can be lifted from the opening by pivoting the slide on the longitudinal beam.

[0005] DE 600 33 900 T2 discloses a frame for a tarpaulin superstructure, comprising at least one stake which is movable along a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform, wherein a tarpaulin which at least partially closes the lateral opening of the frame can be attached to the stake, wherein the stake has a slide at one of its two ends with which it can be moved relative to the longitudinal beam, wherein the stake can be fixed to a receptacle associated with the loading platform, and wherein the stake can be lifted from the opening by pivoting the slide on the longitudinal beam.

[0006] WO 94 18 030 A1 shows a frame for a tarpaulin-covered body, in which a section of a side tarpaulin is clamped at the front and rear, when the tarpaulin is closed, to a rail located adjacent to a sliding rail. The rail can be moved via a roller carriage in a compartment otherwise intended for side tarpaulin rollers. A crossbar is provided centrally between the two rails and is connected to them via diagonal struts. When the side tarpaulin, also referred to as a curtain, is pushed together, the articulated connection of the struts to one of the rails on the one hand and to the crossbar on the other ensures that the crossbar is lowered and remains in the plane of the opening when the side tarpaulin is open. The rails also remain in the plane of the opening.To close the side tarpaulin, a double-armed lever, hinged to the frame, is swung back and forth to spread the struts and thus the slats apart, and then lifted to raise the frame. The slats and the tarpaulin are then seemingly lifted behind an edge on the longitudinal beam. A hinged loading ramp covers the closed side tarpaulin and forms a support for the lever that lifts the frame.

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide a convertible top frame or a method with which an opening of a tarpaulin structure can be reliably opened and closed.

[0008] This problem is solved by a convertible top frame or a method with the features specified in an independent claim.

[0009] According to the invention, a frame for a tarpaulin-covered structure, such as a commercial vehicle body for trucks or trailers or a container, is provided, in which a plurality of sliding struts can be moved along longitudinal beams supported against a loading platform. A tarpaulin, which at least partially closes the lateral opening of the frame, can be attached to the sliding struts, for example by loops in the tarpaulin or by riveting. The sliding struts have a slide at one of their two ends, allowing them to be moved relative to the longitudinal beam. For this purpose, the slide has sliding elements, generally designed as support rollers, which engage in a corresponding guide track of the longitudinal beam and thus enable the movement with low rolling friction.The sliding struts can be fixed to a guide rail assigned to the loading platform, with the guide rail running along the end of the sliding strut opposite the carriage. Fixing them to the guide rail ensures a stable position for the sliding strut within the tarpaulin frame, as the carriage can be moved within the longitudinal beam. By pivoting the sliding struts in the area of ​​the carriage, they can be lifted away from the opening of the tarpaulin, thereby tilting the longitudinal axis of the sliding strut towards the plane of the opening, intersecting it in the area of ​​the longitudinal beam. This is particularly advantageous, as it allows the sliding strut to be guided past the load in the event of shifting cargo. Furthermore, pivoting the sliding strut like a pendulum also folds the attached tarpaulin, allowing it to be easily pushed together.In the pivoted position, the sliding struts are held at a distance from the guide rail. A spacer is provided to maintain this distance, keeping the lower end of the sliding strut away from the guide rail or the wall to which the guide rail is attached. This advantageously prevents the sliding struts from swinging back and forth under their own weight or even swinging into the cargo area. At the same time, this ensures a uniform and consistent pivoted position for all sliding struts, which does not interfere with loading the tarpaulin cover. Their own weight also prevents the sliding struts from protruding laterally beyond the preset opening angle, so that a narrow working area is sufficient to open and close the side tarpaulin.The spacer can, for example, be designed as a spring clip or spring plate, fixed in the area of ​​the tarpaulin, which, when the tarpaulin is pushed together, is moved in such a way that it extends the sliding strut at its lower end. Alternatively, it is possible, for example, to attach a link as a spacer to the side of the sliding strut facing the opening, which is pivotally connected at the base of the sliding strut and pivots relative to the sliding strut, and, in the pivoted state of the sliding strut, is supported against a wall or an actuating element that performs the pivoting.

[0010] Preferably, however, a pivoting mechanism is provided between adjacent sliding struts, which pivots and holds the sliding struts at a distance from the guide rail or the wall to which the guide rail is attached. In this respect, the pivoting mechanism is not only intended for pivoting the sliding strut, but also as a spacer. In a simple embodiment, the pivoting mechanism has a link that articulately connects the sliding strut and the spacer. If a link is connected to the sliding strut on each side, when the tarpaulin is pushed together, the link will forcefully guide the sliding strut into the pivoted position, and then hold it in the pivoted position, thus fulfilling a spacer function.Alternatively, the extension kinematics can be designed with two links, which then form a four-bar linkage between a base and the sliding strut. A four-bar arrangement advantageously allows the sliding strut to pivot in a defined manner with respect to a single extension kinematic, and also enables locking via an over-center locking mechanism of the four-bar linkage. Furthermore, adjacent four-bar linkages can be connected to control links that synchronize the overall extension movement. Modified kinematics are also possible for the extension kinematics, in which a pivot pin of the link is mounted in an elongated hole, and an additional degree of freedom is used to generate a moment in one direction or the other. This makes it particularly possible to convert an axial movement of the links into an extension movement.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one of the linkages of the extension kinematics is elastically deformable in order to achieve the necessary degrees of freedom, particularly in the event of jamming or to overcome obstacles. Alternatively, the pivot eye in which the linkage is received can also have a certain amount of play, for example, if it is designed as an elongated hole, or if additional mobility in the extension kinematics is provided by a more complex arrangement such as a seven-link kinematic system.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the spacer is designed as a guide element that can be moved along the guide rail. In a further embodiment, the guide element can be axially moved along the guide rail like a slide. The guide element would then be arranged between adjacent sliding struts and form the basis for the extension kinematics, which simultaneously define the spacer. However, a spacer is also present even without extension kinematics, for example, if a spring or similar element is supported against the guide element. Preferably, however, the spacer is connected to a sliding element that is arranged between adjacent sliding struts and can be moved within the longitudinal beam.This makes it possible to find suitable connections for introducing the required forces along the entire height of the sliding stanchion, and simultaneously to introduce these forces into the kinematically connected sliding strut by pulling and / or pushing the stanchion. According to a preferred embodiment, the spacer, or in the case of a stanchion, its lower end, has a roller that can be supported in a guide track of the running rail, thus ensuring that a displacement movement can also be introduced into the spacer through low rolling friction.

[0013] According to one aspect, a frame for a tarpaulin body has been designed, featuring a side tarpaulin guide system that simplifies opening and closing the side tarpaulin to such an extent that only a few steps are required. The side tarpaulin guide system comprises multiple sliding struts that can be moved along longitudinal beams supported against a loading platform. A tarpaulin, which at least partially closes the side opening of the frame, can be attached to the sliding struts, thus enabling a flexible side wall for the tarpaulin body with the associated low weight.The sliding struts have a carriage at one of their two ends, allowing them to be moved relative to the longitudinal beam. This carriage is typically designed as a roller carriage that can be moved along a corresponding chamber or guide track of the longitudinal beam, encountering only rolling friction. The sliding struts can also be fixed to a guide rail associated with the loading platform to secure the strut in place. The side curtain guide assembly includes a lifting device that vertically displaces, in particular lifts, at least one sliding strut when the side curtain guide assembly is closed, and secures it against the guide rail. This advantageously allows the sliding strut to be fixed to the guide rail or a section of a guide rail by lifting the sliding strut relative to the guide rail, thus engaging the guide rail from below.The lifting means are advantageously controlled in such a way that the lifting only begins when a hook section of the sliding strut engaging under the running rail is positioned below the running rail, and then, advantageously self-centering, penetrates a corresponding counterpart, e.g. a recess, of the longitudinal rail from below.

[0014] Advantageously, it is provided that the sliding struts can be lifted from the opening by pivoting in the area of ​​the slide, whereby the sliding strut is advantageously lowered first, and when pivoting back towards the opening, is only raised again when the sliding strut is positioned with a part in line with its counterpart, which is referred to as the guide rail.

[0015] According to a further development, the sliding struts are held spaced apart from the guide rail or a wall to which the guide rail is attached when in the pivoted state.

[0016] Preferably, the lifting means comprise a pivoting kinematic mechanism provided between adjacent sliding arms, which pivots the sliding arm relative to a spacer associated with the guide rail. The spacer thus acts as a support for the sliding arm when it is pivoted out. The joints of the pivoting kinematic mechanism transfer the mass of the sliding arm into the spacer, so that the spacer expediently rests against the guide rail or a wall, such as the tailgate, to which the guide rail is connected. Alternatively, the pivoting kinematic mechanism can also be mounted on a guide element in the guide rail. The pivoting kinematic mechanism then also causes the sliding arm, or at least its lower section, to be lifted by means of the correspondingly acting links of the pivoting kinematic mechanism, which, as described above, can be configured in various ways.Advantageously, the base of the opening mechanism, which is preferably a sliding post, is lowered at least partially in the area that accommodates the links of the opening mechanism. The lifting means work in particular by allowing the links of the opening mechanism, when the side curtain guide assembly is almost or completely closed and the side curtain is correspondingly closed, to enter a plane parallel to the opening together with the sliding post and at least one guide element of the sliding post, and the resulting decrease in the number of degrees of freedom with respect to the movement of the sliding post causes it to be lifted.

[0017] According to a further preferred embodiment, the lifting means comprise a cable that passes through the sliding struts and, when tensioned, raises at least one lower end of a sliding strut. According to a first embodiment, the cable can run essentially longitudinally along the sliding strut and, via pulleys or other force diversion means, adjust its lowering or raising depending on the pivot angle of the sliding strut relative to the plane of the opening to be closed by the side panel. According to a further embodiment, a cable is connected to the clamping element, which is fixed to the stake, and is used to apply final tension to the panel. When this tensioning arrangement is released, the cable that lifts the sliding strut is also released, and the sliding strut can move downwards.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the cable is connected to abutments attached to the tarpaulin, which are arranged at intervals between adjacent struts, so that the cable is relieved of tension when the tarpaulin is pushed together and is tensioned when the tarpaulin is closed. Tensioning the cable, which passes through the sliding strut, raises the strut and advantageously locks it in place relative to the guide rail.

[0019] A sliding block positioned at intervals between the sliding struts is particularly suitable as an abutment, as it allows for very easy adjustment of the cable height. Alternatively, a conventional tarpaulin roller can serve as the abutment. This roller is attached to the upper edge of the side tarpaulin and can be moved within the longitudinal beam. It features an eyelet or similar element for guiding the cable. In this case, the cable will pass through the sliding strut at a higher point. Instead of a continuous cable, it is also possible to use cable sections running from the abutment to the sliding strut and from the sliding strut to the abutment, thus eliminating the need for cable glands. These sections are particularly easy to replace and can be individually adjusted to the desired cable tension using appropriate tarpaulin tensioners.

[0020] To raise or lower the sliding strut, a suitable embodiment provides that the sliding strut can be raised or lowered relative to the longitudinal beam. This can be achieved, firstly, by providing an axial guide in the area of ​​the roller carriage, allowing the sliding strut to be moved up and down relative to the roller carriage. Alternatively, the sliding strut can be provided with a telescopic section which, under spring preload, compensates for part of the sliding strut's own weight by retracting the telescopic section.Preferably, a telescopic section is provided below the support roller of the sliding arm that effects the pivoting movement. This section allows a preset stroke of the lower section of the sliding arm relative to the upper section, whereby the lower section of the sliding arm follows its own weight when the lifting means are actuated in the opposite direction, i.e., when lowering. The lifting means then overcome the force of gravity on the lower section of the sliding arm by raising it again.

[0021] According to one aspect, a frame for a tarpaulin cover is designed, featuring a side tarpaulin guide arrangement in which a plurality of sliding struts can be moved along a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform. A tarpaulin, at least partially closing the side opening of the frame, can be attached to the sliding struts, for example, by means of snap fasteners. The sliding struts have a carriage at one of their two ends, allowing them to be moved relative to the longitudinal beam. The carriage is advantageously equipped with rollers, similar to a trolley, enabling it to roll in a corresponding guide track on the longitudinal beam. The carriage is connected to the upper end of the sliding strut and can also be formed integrally with it.The sliding strut can also be fixed to a guide rail associated with the loading platform in order to secure the entire side tarpaulin guide assembly to the rest of the tarpaulin frame. The side tarpaulin guide assembly has locking means that, when the assembly is closed, preferably positively lock the sliding struts against a stop. This locking mechanism ensures that a load acting perpendicular to the opening plane, whether introduced directly or via the tarpaulin into the sliding strut, is directed against the stop, effectively preventing the sliding strut from being pushed laterally out of its closed position.

[0022] Advantageously, the sliding struts are designed to be lifted from the opening by pivoting them in the area of ​​the slide. The sliding strut is advantageously unlocked first and then relocked when pivoted back towards the opening, only after a portion of it is aligned with its counterpart, referred to as the guide rail, and preferably after it has been lifted. According to a further embodiment, the sliding struts are held spaced apart from the guide rail or a wall to which the guide rail is attached when pivoted.

[0023] Advantageously, the locking means include a tilting kinematics provided between adjacent sliding struts, which causes the sliding strut to lock against the stop.

[0024] The locking mechanism can be achieved by allowing the opening kinematics to be moved into an over-center position, or by moving a front end of the sliding strut from below into a complementary, lateral force-absorbing counter-form in which loads acting at least perpendicular to the plane of the opening are positively engaged in the stop. Preferably, the locking arrangement actuates a further locking element, which is advantageously displaceable along the axial extent of the sliding strut. In a simple embodiment, this is a pin that is kinematically coupled to the locking means and is biased by gravity or by spring tension in a locking direction opposite to the aforementioned lifting motion.This results in a clamp-like, counter-rotating movement of the outer end of the sliding strut by lifting the sliding strut against a lower edge of the stop and simultaneously by lowering the bolt towards the lower end of the sliding strut towards an upper edge of the stop. In a simple embodiment, this can be achieved by a connecting link that is attached to the link of the extension kinematics and, optionally with an elongated hole, lowers the bolt relative to the lower section of the sliding strut when the lower section of the sliding strut is lifted relative to the upper section of the sliding strut. If the bolt has a wedge ramp, this can additionally assist in pulling the sliding strut towards the wall that holds the guide rail and, furthermore, also provide contact surfaces for the transmission of vertical forces from the longitudinal beam via the sliding strut into the guide rail.According to a particularly practical further training, it can be provided that a hole is provided at the lower end of the sliding strut and on the bolt, aligned in the fully closed state, through which a seal can be inserted as a customs seal.

[0025] According to another preferred embodiment, the locking means comprise a cable that acts upon or even passes through the sliding strut, and which, when the cable is tensioned, lowers a locking element relative to the sliding strut or its lower section. This can be easily achieved, for example, if the locking element is pre-tensioned in the release direction and is disengaged into the locking position against the pre-tension by means of a cable and pulley. Preferably, however, it is provided that spring means axially pre-tension the locking element into the locking position, and the cable of the locking means raises the locking element, for example via a pulley, when the side panel is opened and the cable is tensioned accordingly.

[0026] According to an alternative embodiment, the locking mechanisms can be actuated by permanent magnets, an electric motor, or a wedge-shaped surface control that converts longitudinal movement of the convertible top frame into vertical movement. For example, engagement pawls or brake links could be pivotally connected to the sliding strut, which, when the cable is under load in the direction of pull, are selectively unlocked or locked, thus creating an additional positive locking mechanism for the sliding strut.

[0027] Overall, it is advantageous if the sliding strut has an upper section and a lower section that can be axially displaced relative to each other by a defined length, wherein the gravity of the lower section or spring means pre-tension the lower section towards a lowered position, with the locking means optionally locking the lower end and / or, if necessary, the spring means.

[0028] Preferably, as a further development, the sliding strut is provided to have an upper section and a lower section that are axially displaceable relative to each other by a limited distance, and that the lower section is pre-tensioned by a spring or, preferably, by gravity into a position spaced apart from the upper section. The locking means can advantageously lock the lower section either against the upper section or, preferably, against the stop.

[0029] Advantageously, the sliding strut has a hook section that can be brought into contact with an edge of the guide rail from below, thereby enabling locking to the guide rail. The hook section engaging with the edge of the guide rail can have a convex, conical, pointed, pyramidal, trapezoidal, or other contour to aid centering. However, it is also possible for the hook section to have a contour complementary to those mentioned if the section on the guide rail is shaped like a projection rather than a recess.According to a preferred embodiment, both the edge and the end of the hook-shaped section of the sliding strut are provided with a plurality of equidistant grooves with a triangular cross-section, running parallel to the guide rail. These grooves allow for interlocking at varying intervals, enabling the sliding strut to be connected even when a protruding part of the load prevents a connection directly against the opening. To further facilitate positioning the lower end of the sliding strut, enlarged recesses can be provided in the guide rail at the closed positions of the sliding strut. These recesses also facilitate axial sliding into the desired position. If these recesses additionally feature a step in the longitudinal direction of the guide rail, the sliding strut is reliably fixed in this direction as well.It may be advantageous to provide separate locking means, such as locking pins or connection arrangements in the form of a stake foot, in the preferred position, to which a manual locking mechanism can optionally be attached for additional security.

[0030] The side tarpaulin guide assembly exhibits high stability, particularly when sliding elements are arranged in interval positions between adjacent sliding struts. This is because the sliding elements transfer vertical forces from the longitudinal beam into the guide rail, thus ensuring that the closed side tarpaulin guide assembly does not come loose, for example, due to deflection of the longitudinal beam. With the sliding strut design described above, these vertical forces are also transferred into the guide rail, making it possible to use a canopy frame without a center post.However, preferably at least one central post is provided between the corner posts. This ensures that the longitudinal beam maintains a defined distance from the loading platform and thus from the guide rail, thereby noticeably reducing the deflection of the longitudinal beam and increasing the guiding and locking accuracy of the side tarpaulin guide assembly. The central post can be of conventional design, but it is also possible to connect the central post to a separate foot via a post lever and to provide side tarpaulin guide assemblies on both sides of the central post.Even then, the long side of the convertible top frame can still be easily opened, namely by first detaching the center post, which is connected to the tarpaulin, from its post base, making it possible to lift and / or extend it, and then releasing the side tarpaulin guide arrangement(s), and moving the side tarpaulin together with the center post to release the opening.

[0031] Advantageously, the guide rail is positioned low on an outer wall in the area of ​​the loading platform, allowing the portion of the wall remaining above the guide rail to serve as a support surface for the components that act as spacers for the sliding struts when the side tarpaulin guide assembly is open. This reliably ensures that the side tarpaulin guide assembly cannot swing into the cargo space with its mechanical parts, and preferably also that the tarpaulin itself does not protrude significantly into the cargo space.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, the side tarpaulin guide assembly can be pre-tensioned towards an open position by spring elements, which may be provided inside or outside the tarpaulin. When the end part of the side tarpaulin guide assembly is released, the spring elements cause the side tarpaulin guide assembly to fold completely or at least substantially, lifting sliding elements, lowering sliding struts, swinging sliding struts out of position, and retracting sliding elements and sliding struts into a compact package relative to the tensioning arrangement. The spring elements are then simultaneously re-tensioned when the tarpaulin is closed, for which a tarpaulin tensioner designed as a folding lever can be used.

[0033] According to the invention, a method for actuating a side tarpaulin guide assembly is provided for releasing an opening of a canopy frame of a tarpaulin superstructure. In this method, sliding struts suspended from a longitudinal beam are lowered with their lower section and, when the side tarpaulin guide assembly is compressed, are pivoted around the longitudinal beam by a spacer so that their lower end protrudes from the opening. This method differs from accordion-style methods, in which extension strips are displaced parallel to the plane of the opening, and can be advantageously applied in a canopy frame of the type described above.

[0034] According to one aspect, a sliding strut is designed for use in such a tarpaulin-covered frame, comprising a central cover section associated with the lateral opening of the frame, with an upper connection device formed at one end for connection to a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform, and with a lower connection device formed at the other end for connection to a guide rail provided in the area of ​​the loading platform, wherein means for tilting or pivoting relative to the plane of the opening by pivoting in the longitudinal beam are provided in the area of ​​the upper connection device. The sliding strut is characterized in that a spacer holds the sliding strut in its tilted position when pivoted.This prevents the moment that the sliding strut, due to its mass, introduces into the spacer, from causing the sliding strut to swing back in the open position and intrude into the cargo area. For this purpose, the spacer is advantageously supported against a corresponding wall of the convertible top frame.

[0035] The side panel is attached to the sliding strut via appropriate means of attachment, whereby any means of attachment are suitable, for example riveting, screwing, gluing, insertion into a pocket of the side panel fabric, connection of eyelets to the circumference of the sliding strut, and many more.

[0036] Advantageously, the upper connecting device has at least one support roller that is pivotably mounted in a chamber of the longitudinal beam. This allows the sliding strut to be easily moved, i.e., rolled, within the longitudinal beam, and at the same time, the bearing point of the support roller in the corresponding chamber of the longitudinal beam forms a temporary hinge without being hindered from further rolling. For this purpose, the upper connecting device is advantageously designed as a slide, which can be formed integrally with the sliding strut, but preferably can be inserted into a shaft section of the sliding strut. By selecting appropriate shaft sections, different opening heights can be spanned. The lower connecting device is also advantageously designed as a lower slide, which is connected to the profile section in the same manner.It is possible to also equip the lower slide with rollers that engage with a guide section of the roller, and via which the sliding strut is optionally locked to the guide rail. Preferably, however, to achieve a particularly secure positive locking action, the lower slide will only be equipped with sliding surfaces.

[0037] It is possible to provide a section in the lower connection device of the sliding strut that can be connected to a stake foot, allowing the sliding strut to be locked to the stake foot. However, it is then necessary to manually release the lock before the sliding strut can be moved.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper and lower sections of the sliding strut are axially movable relative to each other, allowing the lower section to be raised or lowered relative to the upper section. Advantageously, the movable upper and lower sections are located in the connecting device of the sliding strut, whereby a large mass biases the lower section into the lowered position due to gravity. Alternatively, however, the area of ​​axial movement of the upper and lower sections can be located in a different region of the sliding strut. In addition to axial movement, a moment can also be introduced into the lower section, enabling the lower connecting device to pivot into the position of disengagement from the guide rail as the lower section is lowered.In this respect, the upper section and the lower section simultaneously form a scenery system that pivots the lower section slightly.

[0039] The lower connecting device is advantageously secured to the guide rail by engaging underneath it, thereby allowing forces acting perpendicular to the plane of the opening to be introduced into the sliding arm. If, at the same time, the raised sliding arm is positively locked to the longitudinal beam, this effectively prevents the sliding arm from being dislodged laterally by the load.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the lower connecting device can be released from the guide rail by axially lowering at least the lower connecting device. This allows the sliding strut to pivot about the pivot axis without remaining fixed to the guide rail when the side panel is opened.

[0041] Further advantages, properties, features and further developments of the claimed invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment and from the dependent claims.

[0042] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and a preferred embodiment. Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective schematic view of a tarpaulin frame for a semi-trailer. Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view from the rear of a preferred embodiment of a convertible top frame according to the invention, which is partially cut away. Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the convertible top frame according to Fig. 2 without cable pull, in which the side tarpaulin guide arrangement is pushed together. Fig. Figure 4 shows a section of the side panel guide arrangement from Fig. 3, where the sliding struts and sliders are unlocked but not yet pushed together. Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of a sliding strut made of Fig. 4. Fig. Figure 6 shows an enlarged detail VI from Fig. 5. Fig. Figure 7 shows an enlarged detail VII from Fig. 5. Fig. Figure 8 shows a side view comparable to the image. Fig. 5 of a sliding strut in the locked position. Fig. 9 shows a detail IX from Fig. 8. Fig. 10 shows a detail X from Fig. 8. Fig. Figure 11 shows a side view of a sliding door made of Fig. 3 in the locked position. Fig. 12 shows a detail XII from Fig. 11. Fig. 13 shows a detail XIII from Fig. 11. Fig. Figure 14 shows the collapsed side tarpaulin guide arrangement. Fig. 3 in a side view. Fig. Figure 15 shows a cross-sectional view of Fig. 14 with extended sliding strut. Fig. 16 shows a detail XVI from Fig. 15. Fig. 17 shows a detail XVII from Fig. 15. Fig. Figure 18 shows the side panel guide arrangement. Fig. 3 in closed position in a side view. Fig. Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional view of a sliding strut made of Fig. 18. Fig. 20 shows a detail XX from Fig. 19. Fig. 21 shows a detail XXI from Fig. 19. Fig. Figure 22 shows two variants of means for locking the sliding strut. Fig. Figure 23 shows a perspective view from the rear of the convertible top frame according to Fig. 2. Fig. 24 shows a detail XXIV from Fig. 23. Fig. 25 shows a detail XXV from Fig. 23. Fig. 26 shows a detail XXVI from Fig. 23. Fig. 27 shows a detail XXVII from Fig. 23. Fig. Figure 28 shows a side view of the convertible top frame according to Fig. 2 in the closed position. Fig. 29 shows a detail XXIX from Fig. 28. Fig. Figure 30 shows a detail of the connection of a cable pull to a profile section of a sliding strut or sliding block. Fig. Figure 31 shows an exemplary embodiment of a handlebar. Fig. Figure 32 shows an alternative embodiment of a handlebar. Fig. Figure 33 shows a lower section of a sliding strut that is fixed to the running rail. Fig. Figure 34 shows an upper section of a sliding strut connected to a longitudinal beam. Fig. Figure 35 shows the lower slide of a sliding mechanism. Fig. Figure 36 shows the lower slide of a sliding strut. Fig. Figure 37 shows the upper slide of a sliding head. Fig. Figure 38 shows the upper slide of a sliding strut.

[0043] With reference to Fig. 1. First, the basic structure of a preferred tarpaulin frame for a tarpaulin body, which in this case covers a semi-trailer, is described. The tarpaulin frame, designated 10 in general, has a loading platform 11 from which four fixed corner posts 1 project upright at the corners of the loading platform 11, wherein a longitudinal beam 4, manufactured as an extruded aluminum profile, is supported on each of the corner posts 1 along the longitudinal edge of the tarpaulin frame 10, wherein the longitudinal beam 4 can also be composed of several sections arranged one behind the other.

[0044] Between the two corner posts 1 arranged on one side or the other of the longitudinal bisector of the convertible top frame 10, one or more intermediate posts 2 are arranged, of which in Fig. 1. Only one is shown on each side. The middle ring 2 has a (in Fig. The center post 2 is mounted on a roller carriage or slide (not shown) with which it can be moved along a corresponding guide track of the longitudinal beam 4 and is held against it. In order to transfer forces from the longitudinal beam 4 into a frame area surrounding the loading platform 11, the center post 2 has a connecting profile at its lower end that can be connected to a post foot arranged on a frame of the loading platform 11. When connected to the post foot, the center post 2 is raised slightly and thus comes into support from below against the longitudinal beam 4. The post foot is arranged in or on a guide rail 3 that runs along the loading platform 11 from corner post 1 to corner post 1.

[0045] Thus, the longitudinal beam 4 is supported against the loading platform 11 via the corner posts 1 and the center posts 2, usually via the guide rail 3. A side tarpaulin 15, made of a convertible top fabric and covering an opening 14 as a lateral boundary wall of the convertible top frame 10, is suspended from the longitudinal beam 4 in a further chamber. This tarpaulin can be fixed in the area of ​​the loading platform 11 and, when released, exposes the opening 14 and – if necessary together with the released center post 2 – can be moved along the respective guide in the longitudinal beam 4.

[0046] The area located in the direction of travel or in the longitudinal direction of the canopy frame 10 between the two corner posts 1 opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal bisector is limited by a closed wall 12, while in the rear area 13 located between the two opposite corner posts 1 two doors hinged to the corner posts 1 are provided, which allow loading from the rear.

[0047] The roof area between the two opposing longitudinal beams 4 is closed by a sliding cover comprising a roof tarpaulin 5, which is fixed to the bows 8 bridging the two longitudinal beams 4. Each bow 8 has a slide 6 at its end, allowing it to be moved along a guide track on the longitudinal beams 4. Folding aids for the tarpaulin are provided between adjacent bows 8 and their slides 6. When adjacent bows 8 are pushed together, these aids are positioned in the shape of an inverted V. The point of the inverted V raises the roof tarpaulin 5 and prevents it from falling between the bows 8. The roof tarpaulin 5 is tensioned over a portal mechanism 19 that pivots on the rearmost bow 8 and is released by raising the portal mechanism 19 to prevent the bows 8 from shifting out of their position. Fig. To allow the position shown in point 1.

[0048] In Fig. Section 2 explains in more detail the construction of a side curtain guide assembly 9, which closes the opening 14. For clarity, the side curtain 15 is not shown. The side curtain guide assembly 9 extends in the area shown in Fig. 2 shown closed state over the entire width of the opening 14 between the two corner posts 1, but it is also possible to provide several side tarpaulin guide arrangements 9, each covering only a part of the opening 14, for example between the corner post 1 and a middle post 2.

[0049] The side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 shown comprises several sliding struts 91, which are guided in a corresponding guide track in the upper longitudinal beam 4, and to which the cover fabric of the side tarpaulin 15 is attached. The sliding struts 91 comprise a shaft section 91m, substantially spanning the height of the opening 14, made of a hollow rectangular profile or another suitable profile. An upper slide 91a is connected to the upper end of the shaft for connection to the longitudinal beam 4, and a lower slide 91b is connected to the lower end for connection to a downwardly projecting profile section 31 of the guide rail 3. The sliding strut 91 is designed to have an upper section 91o and a lower section 91u, which are axially movable relative to each other.The end of the lower slide 91b opposite the shaft section 91m has a convexly shaped hook section 91h at its end, which, when the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is closed, engages the profile section 31 of the guide rail 3 and thus creates a positive fit in a direction normal to the opening 14. The construction of the sliding strut 91 is explained in more detail below.

[0050] Adjacent to each sliding strut 91, a sliding sled 92 is displaceably connected to the upper longitudinal beam 4, to which the cover fabric of the side tarpaulin 15 is also connected. The sliding sleds 92 comprise a shaft section 92m, spanning substantially the height of the opening 14, made of a hollow rectangular profile or another suitable profile, into which an upper slide 92a is connected at the upper end for connection to the longitudinal beam 4, and into which a lower slide 92b is connected at the lower end for connection to an upwardly pointing groove-like guide track 32 of the running rail 3.The end of the lower slide 92b of the sliding block 92, opposite the shaft section 92m, has a convex sliding surface 92g at its end. When the side-plane guide assembly 9 is closed, this sliding surface engages a groove-like guide track 32 of the running rail 3 from above, thus creating a positive fit in a direction normal to the opening 14. It is possible to arrange a roller or ball in the area of ​​the sliding surface 92g to improve its displacement in the event that the sliding surface 92g rubs against the groove-like guide track 32. The sliding block 92 is also designed to have an upper section 92o and a lower section 92u that are axially movable relative to each other. Further details of the construction of the sliding block 92 are explained below.

[0051] Adjacent to the outer one, i.e., in Fig. 2 rearmost in the direction of travel, sliding post 92 has the side tarpaulin guide arrangement 9 a tarpaulin tensioning arrangement 80, in which the side tarpaulin 15 is clamped at the end and which can be locked at the corner post 1.

[0052] The guide rail 3 is connected as a continuous part, for example as an extruded part, to a laterally facing end face of a metal frame 11a that delimits and laterally closes the loading platform 11, e.g. by screwing it on. The end face of the metal frame 11a projects beyond the guide rail 3 and thus defines a wall 30 above the guide rail 3 and below the loading platform 11. A plastic buffer 3a is inserted into an outwardly facing end face of the guide rail 3, which prevents damage to the lower slide 91b of the sliding arm 91 that overlaps the guide rail 3.

[0053] On the lower slide 92b of the sliding mechanism 92, a link 93 with one end 93a is pivotally mounted in a corresponding receptacle 40, the other end 93b of which is pivotally mounted in a corresponding receptacle 40 of a lower slide 91b of the sliding strut 91. The link 93 is arranged a short distance above the guide rail 3 and, when the side curtain guide assembly 9 is closed, runs essentially in or parallel to the plane of the side curtain 15. The construction of the link 93 is described below with reference to Fig. 31 and Fig. 32 will be explained in detail below. The mountings 40 for connecting the linkages 93 and the linkages 93 together form a linkage kinematic system that kinematically couples and positively guides adjacent sliding elements 92 and sliding struts 91. The guidance, as described below, serves both to deflect the lower sections 91u of the sliding struts 91 when opening the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9, to raise the lower sections 91u of the sliding struts 91 when closing the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9, to lower the lower sections 91u of the sliding struts 91 when opening the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9, and to unlock or lock the lower sections 91u of the sliding struts 91 when opening or closing the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9.

[0054] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view of the convertible top frame 10 and part of the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9, from which the arrangement of the sliding struts 91 and the sliding elements 92 can be seen in more detail. In particular, the links 93 and their connection to corresponding receptacles 40, designed as articulated eyes, in the lower slides 91b, 92b of the sliding strut 91 and sliding element 92 are shown. It can also be seen that the sliding strut 91 has a central shaft section 91m, to the upper end of which a slide 91a designed as a roller carriage is connected, and to the lower end of which a lower slide 91b, different from the upper slide 91a, is connected, which is designed for positive engagement with the profile section 31.

[0055] In the side view according to Fig. 5 and the enlarged sections according to Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows how the sliding strut 91 or the sliding arm 92 is connected to the upper longitudinal beam 4 or to the guide rail 3 when the sliding arms 92 are raised and the sliding struts 91 are lowered. This can be seen from the illustration according to... Fig. 6, that the sliding strut 91 is received in a guide track 4a of the longitudinal beam 4 by means of a carriage 91a and a support roller 21 connected to the carriage 91a. It can be seen that the support roller 21 of the carriage 91a of the sliding strut 91 rests on a groove-shaped profile section of the guide track 4a, wherein a clearance space is provided in the guide track 4a adjacent to the upper end of the support roller 21, into which the support roller 21 can move when the sliding strut 91 pivots in the area of ​​the carriage 91a about the pivot axis formed by the bearing surface of the support roller 21 in the guide track 4a.

[0056] One can recognize in Fig. 38 and Fig. 6, Fig. 9 and Fig. 16, that a part of the upper slide 91a is at least predominantly axially movable with respect to another part of the upper slide 91a. For this purpose, a support 191 supporting the carrying roller 21 has a downwardly projecting extension 191b below a bend 191a, which has a stop (not shown) at its end. The extension 191b is axially displaceable in a receiving area of ​​a support part 291a extending a plug section 291 of the upper slide 91a, which also has an upwardly projecting engagement slide 25 that engages in the opening of a profile chamber 4b when the sliding strut 91 is raised, as shown in Fig. Figure 9 shows the sliding strut 91 engaging with the longitudinal beam 4, thus fixing it in the raised position of the support element 291a. Furthermore, the flat, outwardly projecting upper end face of the support element 291a bears across its surface against the flat lower end face of the longitudinal beam 4, and is therefore able to at least partially transfer vertical loads acting on the longitudinal beam 4. In this respect, the support element 191 of the upper slide 91a of the sliding strut 91 forms the upper section 91o of the sliding strut 91, with the remaining part of the sliding strut 91 defining the lower section 91u. It is possible to arrange a spring between extension 191b and support element 291a that pre-tensions the two parts in the opposite direction; however, in the embodiment shown, this is already achieved by the mass of the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91.

[0057] It can be seen that the longitudinal beam 4 has two further guide tracks 4c and 4d, which are provided for receiving guide and support rollers of a slide 6 of a roof cover. Furthermore, the longitudinal beam 4 has a receptacle 4e into which a sealing lip or the like can be inserted, which protects the side tarpaulin 15 against the ingress of rainwater or the like.

[0058] The in Fig. 7 and Fig. The hook section 91h of the lower slide 91b of the sliding arm 91, shown in Figure 36, connects to a clamping section 91k spanning the guide rail 3, which spans the guide rail 3 in the closed state. Above the clamping section 91k, an angled transition 91w is formed, which, in the closed state of the side panel 15, partially rests on the guide rail 3 and can thus introduce vertical forces into it. When the sliding arm 91 is lowered, the angled transition 91w, through a wedge effect, causes the lower section of the sliding arm 91 to already be extended a certain distance away from the opening 14. The receptacles 40 are connected to a plug-in section 91s of the lower slide 91b, which is inserted into the shaft section 91m. With the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91 lowered, the hook section 91h is lifted away from the profile section 31 to such an extent that the hook section 91h disengages from the profile section 31.

[0059] In Fig. In figures 5 to 7, the sliding arm 92 is also visible behind the sliding strut 91. The upper slide 92a (also shown in Fig. 37) The slide 92 has an angled guide section 192 to which two support rollers 23, mounted in the guide track 4a, and two horizontally extending guide rollers 24, mounted in the guide track 4b, are connected. The slide 92a is inserted into the shaft section 92m of the slide 92 by a plug section 292, the end of the plug section 292 facing away from the shaft section 92m having a plate-shaped stop surface 292a, which is penetrated by two guide pins 192a projecting from the leg of the guide section 192 that carries the support rollers 23. A compression spring 392 is clamped between a head of the guide pins 192a and the stop surface 292a, which biases the stop surface 292a upwards towards the guide section 192.The lower end 92u of the sliding shank 92, defined by the plug-in part 292 and the parts of the sliding shank 92 provided below it, is thus movable relative to the upper end 92o of the sliding shank 92, defined by the guide section 192.

[0060] One wall in the guide track 4b, against which the guide roller 24 rests, is designed only as a wall extension 140, so that when the upper section 92o of the sliding block 92 is raised, the guide roller 24 is also raised, thus providing pivoting mobility of the sliding block 92 over the support roller 23 in the guide track 4a, which is not hindered by the extension 140. This can be seen in Fig. 13, that by lowering the body of the sliding block 92, the lower end of the sliding block 92 comes into contact with the profile section 31 of the wall 30. To compensate for any play, which may arise, for example, due to sagging longitudinal beams or defective spring links, it is possible to integrate a roller in the foot area of ​​the sliding block 92, with which it can be moved in the profile section 31.

[0061] The sliding strut 91 is described in greater detail in Fig. 8-10, the sliding 92 in greater detail in Fig. 11-13 shown in the locked state. Fig. Figure 35 shows that the lower slide 92b with the sliding surface 92g also has a plug-in section 92s with which the lower slide 92b can be inserted into the shaft section 92m. It is then fixed in place, as with the other slides, by means of a crossbar or crimping.

[0062] If the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is to be pushed together to release the opening 14, the tarpaulin tensioning assembly 80 is released, for example by flipping its handle 81. The tarpaulin fabric, which tensions the outermost sliding guide 92, allows the sliding guide 92 to move out of the grooved guide track 32 due to the preload of the compression spring 392. When the tarpaulin tensioning assembly 80 is pulled with the side tarpaulin 15 in the opening direction, the sliding arms 91 are lowered a short distance by the lifting means, while the sliding guides 92 are raised a short distance out of the grooved guide track 32. Appropriate lifting means, which can have several different operating mechanisms, are provided for vertically displacing the sliding arms 91 by lowering their lower end 91u relative to their upper end 91o and by raising the sliding guides 92.One of the lifting means is the extension kinematics formed by the projecting links 93 and the receptacles 40 supporting the links 93. This kinematics not only pivots the sliding strut 91 but also lifts it. The relative movement with respect to the guide rail 3 is small but sufficient to release any positive locking with the guide rail 3. It can be seen that the link 93 must not run horizontally when the side curtain guide assembly 9 is closed, because then the required vertical movement of the sliding strut 91 and the sliding arm 92 would not be possible. Instead, the link 93 is mounted at an angle to the horizontal to provide the necessary movement.Although the guide arms 93 possess a certain degree of elasticity, they are essentially rigid in both compression and tension. Therefore, the vertical movement of the sliding struts 91 and the sliding elements 92 simultaneously results in a spatial compensating movement of the sliding strut 91, such that the sliding strut 91 pivots a short distance away from the lower guide rail 3 and away from the opening 14, out of the plane of the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9. This ensures that, during further movement of the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9, the hook sections 91h of the sliding struts 91 do not come into undesired contact with the guide rail 3.

[0063] If the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is now extended by moving, for example, an end-face retaining part of the tarpaulin tensioning assembly 80 connected to the corner post 1, the links 93 of the extension kinematics ensure that the lower ends of the sliding struts 91 are pivoted further outwards relative to their pivot point on the upper longitudinal beam 4, while the adjacent sliding struts 92 and sliding struts 91 are pushed together. Accordingly, the side tarpaulin 15 is folded accordion-like in its lower area. The links 93 perform a pivoting movement in space during this process.

[0064] To assist the lifting means, it is provided that the sliding block 92 with its lower section 92u, in which the links 93 are mounted, is raised a short distance relative to the upper section 92o of the sliding block 92 or relative to the longitudinal beam 4, so that the lower slide 92b of the sliding block 92 with the sliding surface 92g is released from the groove-like guide track 32 in the running rail 3 at least to such an extent that a blockage of the displacement of the sliding block 92 via its slide 92a, which is guided in the longitudinal beam 4, is prevented. It is possible to guide the slide 92a both in the chamber in which the central stanchion 2 with its roller carriage is received, and in the outer chamber of the longitudinal beam 4 in which, in other superstructures, so-called tarpaulin rollers, i.e. roller carriages which are connected to the side tarpaulin 15 and with which the side tarpaulin 15 can be moved along the longitudinal beam 4, are received.A special feature of the outer guide track 4a is that the carriage or roller carriage, as well as the tarpaulin rollers, can pivot within it. The carriage 91a of the sliding arm 91 is also accommodated in the outer guide track 4a. To assist the relative movement of the lower section 92u with respect to the upper section 92o, the compression spring 392 pre-tensions both sections upwards against gravity. This ensures that the outermost sliding arm 92 moves upwards when the side tarpaulin 15 is opened.

[0065] The sliding strut 91, in its effect then opposite to that of the sliding rod 92, can be pre-tensioned with its lower section 91u against its upper section 91o in such a way that a spring biases the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91 downwards. In the illustrated embodiment, however, the lowering of the lower section 91u relative to the upper section occurs due to the action of gravity.

[0066] The lifting means, in particular the extension kinematics with the links 93, cause the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91 to be lifted against its own weight relative to the upper section 91o of the sliding strut 91 when the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is closed, and its hook section 91h engages the corresponding profile section 31 of the guide rail 3. In this process, the extension kinematics clamp the sliding strut 91 sufficiently to allow normal operation. Simultaneously, the lower section 92u of the sliding strut 92 is pressed by the extension kinematics with the links 93 into the grooved guide track 32 of the guide rail 3 against a preload of the compression spring 392, which preloads the lower section 92u of the sliding strut 92 upwards in the direction of the upper section 92o.

[0067] When the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is released by unlocking the side tarpaulin 15, the rear sliding bar 92 located at the outer end is able to lift slightly, causing the next sliding bar 91 to be lowered slightly under the influence of the link 93. If the rear sliding bar 92 is then moved along the longitudinal member 4, the link 93 forces the lower end 91u of the sliding bar 91 away from the lateral opening 14 of the convertible top frame 10, with the slide 91a of the sliding bar 91, which is received in the longitudinal member 4, ensuring that the sliding bar 91 tilts towards the plane of the opening 14 and swings outwards relative to this plane.

[0068] The dimensions of the control arms 93, which exhibit a certain degree of elasticity, determine the distance by which the sliding strut 91 is pivoted. Accordingly, the other sliding elements 92 and sliding struts 91 of the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 are displaced as the opening progresses. Overall, the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is then moved according to the [reference to be added]. Fig. The principle shown in 3 is grouped, with the side panel 15 omitted for better illustration.

[0069] When the side tarpaulin guide arrangement 9 is closed again, the described movement takes place in reverse order, with the consequence that the lower section 92u of the sliding rod 92 is lowered a little and the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91 is raised a little, whereby both parts engage with the corresponding profile section 31 or 32 of the running rail 3.

[0070] The lifting and lowering of the sliding strut 91 or the sliding support 92 during opening and closing is reproducibly ensured by the described lifting devices. In addition to or instead of the opening kinematics, a cable pull 94 is provided, which extends over almost the entire width of the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 and is fixed to the outer sliding support 92. The cable pull 94 engages at a high point of the sliding support 92 and at a low point of the sliding strut 91, and, in addition to its lifting function described below, also provides additional lateral stabilization against slippage of the load. The cable pull 94 can be designed as a continuous cable pull, or it can consist of cable pull sections that are each attached only between two adjacent shaft sections 91m, 92m, or that pass through several adjacent of the aforementioned parts.A special feature of the cable pull 94 is that when the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is retracted, the cable pull 94 is relieved of tension, thus allowing free vertical movement of the sliding arm 92 or the sliding strut 91. However, when the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is tensioned, the cable pull 94 transmits a lifting force to the sliding strut 91 and a lowering force to the sliding arm 92, which supports or replaces the effect of the opening kinematics described above.

[0071] It is understood that the lifting means can also be implemented using other solutions, such as cable pulleys, gears, linkages, or the like. For example, the cable pulley 94 may not be housed in the sliding elements 92, but rather in tarpaulin rollers that are connected to the top of the side tarpaulin 15 and can be moved in the corresponding guide track 4a of the longitudinal beam 4. In this case, the cable pulley 94 can be connected to corresponding deflection elements of the tarpaulin rollers, which themselves do not need to be lifted, since there is no avoidable positive locking or frictional contact with the guide rail 3. In this case, it is sufficient for spacers, which have the length of the linkage 93, to be supported with a central section against the wall 30 to which the guide rail 3 is connected, and for corresponding legs to effect the pendulum swing of the sliding arm 91.Such a spacer can be implemented, for example, by a slide connected to the guide rail 3 and to which the linkages 93 are articulated. However, it is sufficient to provide a flexible, sufficiently compression-resistant section, for example made of spring wire or a resilient sheet, the ends of which are each assigned to a sliding strut 91, in particular its lower slide 91b, and are articulated or connected there. The part of the spacer assigned to the guide rail 3, which should be connected to the side panel 15 and which abuts against the wall 30, prevents the sliding strut 91 from oscillating under the influence of its mass. As an alternative to spring wire, a spring wire with several central coils, similar to a torsion spring, is also suitable, in which the legs are pivotable relative to the coil.If such a spring wire is pre-tensioned in an open position of the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9, a largely automatic or at least assisted opening of the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 would be possible simultaneously with the pivoting of the sliding struts 91. In any case, it is possible to use a suitable motor to automatically open or close a cable pull assembly connected to an end part that can be connected to the corner post 1 or center post 2, after the end part has been unlocked.

[0072] When the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is closed again, the opening kinematics with the links 93 and / or the cable pull 94 cause the respective lower slides 92b or 91b of the sliding block 92 or the sliding strut 91 to connect to the correspondingly shaped profile sections 32 or 31 of the guide rail 3. Accordingly, the opening kinematics and / or the cable pull 94 constitute parts of a locking device with which the sliding block 92 and in particular the sliding strut 91 can be fixed to the guide rail 3.

[0073] It should be noted that the guide rail 3 does not need to be designed as a continuous profile, since, similar to a stake foot, it is sufficient to connect it to the area where the sliding strut 91 or the sliding stake 92 comes to rest when the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is closed. However, a continuous guide rail 3 has the advantage that it can be equipped with locking devices in which the open side tarpaulin 15 can be locked, such as a section of the profile 31 that forms a stop in a pivoted position, or a locking shoe that can be inserted separately into the profile 31.

[0074] Additionally, the locking means can actuate further locking elements, which are provided in particular on the sliding strut 91. This advantageously enables the sliding strut 91 to also transmit vertical forces from the longitudinal beam 4 into the guide rail 3, and achieves a higher load-bearing capacity against forces acting on the sliding strut 91 from the load, thereby partially or completely eliminating the need for intermediate posts 2. It is provided that a locking element provided on the sliding strut 91 is additionally displaced downwards with respect to the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91 by the deflection kinematics or the cable pull 94, thereby lowering the locking element relative to the guide rail 3.The locking element can be provided either by engaging in a recess of the guide rail 3 or by engaging the guide rail 3 in another manner. This ensures that reliable locking of the sliding arm 91 is achieved even in the event of a malfunction or defect, such as a broken link 93, and even when the convertible top frame 10 is subjected to severe vibrations, for example, during top loading and / or driving over rough terrain. For actuating a locking element, a double-armed lever is connected to the lower section 91u of the sliding arm 91. The link engages one arm of the lever, while the other arm actuates the locking element. This creates a kinematic chain between the link 93 and the locking element.Alternatively, the cable pull 94 can be guided over deflection pulleys which are connected to the locking element, so that when the cable pull 94 is tensioned, the locking element is displaced axially with respect to the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91.

[0075] A particular advantage of the side tarpaulin guide arrangement 9 is that both the sliding stanchion 92 and the sliding strut 91 can pivot away from the opening with respect to the corresponding guide track 4a of the longitudinal beam 4, but both are prevented from pivoting into the loading area. In particular, if shifted cargo enters the tarpaulin area and thus presents a mechanical obstacle to the sliding stanchions 92 sliding past it, they can simply be pivoted around the obstacle.

[0076] In Fig. Figures 14-17 show that the collapsed side tarpaulin guide assembly 9, in which the sliding struts 91 are pivoted outwards by the links 93 into an outwards pivoted position by an angle α, is shown. The lower section 92u of the sliding strut 92 being struck against the wall 30 prevents parts of the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 from swinging into the interior of the tarpaulin structure under the force of gravity of the linkage. This can be seen in Fig. 17, that the lower end of the sliding block 92 is lifted relative to the profile section 32, and that the upper end of the sliding block 92 is displaced upwards under the load of the spring. It can be seen in Fig. 16. Furthermore, it can be seen that the sliding strut 91 is pivoted outwards in the area of ​​the carriage 91a about the bearing point of the roller 21 in the guide track 4a. It can also be seen that the upper end of the sliding strut 91a is set downwards from the lower end face of the longitudinal beam 4 by a distance sufficient to disengage the lower end of the sliding strut 91 from the profile section 31.

[0077] Fig. Figures 18-21 show the side tarpaulin guide arrangement 9 in an embodiment without cable pull 94 in the locked position. However, a force line corresponding to the cable pull 94 is shown with a dashed line. Furthermore, the direction of displacement of the sliding struts 91 and the sliding elements 92 during closing is shown by means of triangles pointing upwards and downwards, respectively. It can be seen that in the closed state, the sliding struts 91 are all raised and their hook section 91h engages under and behind the profile section 31 of the guide rail 3.

[0078] Furthermore, in Fig. Figure 20 shows that the upper end face of the support element 291a is flush against the lower end face of the longitudinal beam 4, and that the engagement slider 25 penetrates the access opening to the guide track 4b. In the background, the guide roller 24 of the sliding element 92 can be seen. The sliding element 92 is lowered such that the sliding surface 92g engages in the profile section 32. The sliding struts 91 and the sliding elements 92 are thus able to absorb forces acting transversely to the closed opening, for example due to insufficiently secured loads or the like, and to transfer them into the parts of the convertible top frame 10 to which they are connected.Furthermore, it is possible to provide ropes, chains, or other tensile-resistant connections between adjacent sliding elements 92, i.e., without threading them into the sliding struts 91, which, when the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is closed, form an additional railing and simultaneously prevent shifting loads from becoming embedded in the tarpaulin. In addition, reinforcements can be incorporated into the side tarpaulin 15, designed as a strap or tensile-resistant component, which transfer the loads into the sliding elements 92 and sliding struts 91 to which the side tarpaulin 15 is connected.

[0079] In Fig. Figure 23 shows in more detail the cable pull 94, which moves in a zigzag pattern from sliding pin 92 downwards to sliding strut 91 and from sliding strut 91 back upwards to sliding pin 92. Fig. Figure 24 shows how the cable pull 94 is connected to the shaft section 92m of the rearmost sliding gate 92 via a tension member 94a. It can also be seen that a slot-like recess 60 is provided in the shaft section 92m, through which the cable pull 94 is guided in the subsequent sliding gates 92. Fig. Figure 26 shows that the elongated hole 60 can be lined with an insert 60a for this purpose. Fig. 25 shows that the edge section of the side tarpaulin 15 is inserted into a tarpaulin tensioner 50, which is secured by a locking mechanism on the corner post 1; at the same time as the side tarpaulin 15 is tensioned, all sliding struts 91 and sliding elements 92 move into their position corresponding to the closed position, in which the compression spring 392 on the upper slide 92a of the sliding element 92 is tensioned to lower the sliding element 92.

[0080] In Fig. Figure 28 shows a rear section of an embodiment of the convertible top frame 10, in which the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is closed, and in which the movement component of the sliding elements 92 or the sliding struts 91 is carried in the cable pull 94. It can be seen that no link 93 is provided between the rear sliding element 92 and the rearmost sliding strut 91.

[0081] In Fig. 31 and Fig. Figure 32 shows embodiments of handlebars 93. These are shown in their simplest form with Fig. 31 is designed as a spring-loaded round wire, which, with its S-shaped angled ends 93a, can be inserted into the corresponding receptacles 40 of the lower slides 92b, 91b of the sliding arm 92 or the sliding strut 91. Alternatively, the links 93 can also have articulated eyes that allow riveting with corresponding articulated eyes of the lower slides 91b, 92b. The in Fig. The alternative embodiment of the guide 93' shown in Figure 32 has several spiral windings in its center, which make it easier to bend the two legs of the spring wire extending from the windings. Furthermore, it is possible to introduce a preferred preload into the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 via the guide 93'.

[0082] In Fig. 33 and Fig. Figure 34 shows the installation situation of the sliding strut in a perspective comparable to the Fig. 26 and Fig. 27 shown. Fig. 35 and Fig. Figure 36 shows the lower slides 92b and 91b of the sliding block 92 and the sliding strut 91, respectively. Fig. 37 and Fig. Figure 38 shows the upper slides 92a and 91a of the sliding arm 92 and the sliding strut 91, respectively.

[0083] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments of convertible top frames according to the invention, in which the lifting means for lifting the sliding struts 91 and the locking means for locking the sliding struts 91 were illustrated by means of a sliding strut 91 that was pivoted relative to the longitudinal member 4 by pendulum action. It is understood that the locking means and the lifting means can be used in the same way for sliding struts that do not remain connected to the longitudinal member 4, but are displaced from it.

[0084] The invention has been explained above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which the abutment for the lifting and locking means of the sliding strut is designed as a sliding element 92, which is guided at least temporarily on both the guide rail 3 and the longitudinal beam 4. It is understood that it is sufficient if an abutment is guided on only one of the two parts, i.e., for example, the longitudinal beam 4 or the guide rail 3. For example, the extension kinematics with the links 93 can be connected to a carriage that is movable along the guide rail 3 or the longitudinal beam 4; furthermore, the cable pull 94 can be connected to a tarpaulin roller or a carriage that is movable along the longitudinal beam 4 or the guide rail 3. For example, a carriage movable along the guide rail 3 can be provided as a lifting means for the sliding strut 91 via deflection pulleys or the like.

[0085] In Fig. Figure 22 schematically illustrates two preferred further developments of locking arrangements. Fig. 22(a) The link 93 is connected to a double-arm lever 99a, whereby when the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91 is lifted, the double-arm lever 99a is simultaneously pivoted about its central pivot point. A locking element 99 is articulated to the end of the double-arm lever 99a opposite the pivot point with the link 93, which is displaced downwards by the pivoting and thus creates an additional locking mechanism. According to Fig.22b, a locking element 99 can be actuated by the cable 94. The cable 94 is guided around a pulley assembly consisting of three pulleys 98. When a tensile force, indicated by arrows, is applied to the upper pulley 98, which is connected to the locking element 99, it moves the locking element 99 downwards relative to the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91. By engaging the outer pulleys 98, a lifting force is introduced into the lower section 91u of the sliding strut 91, which increases with increasing tension on the cable 94. The locking element 99 can be pre-tensioned by a spring in the opposite direction to the direction of engagement.

[0086] The invention has been explained above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which a preferred lifting and locking arrangement is implemented by a cable pull 94. It is also possible, after tensioning the side tarpaulin 15, to achieve lifting and locking by means of rods inserted horizontally into the shaft sections 91m, 92m, which initiate an upward or downward movement via wedge surfaces in the shaft sections 91m, 92m. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a cam arrangement as a lifting means for the upper and lower sections 91o, 92o, 91u, 92u, which axially displaces the two halves of the shaft sections 91m, 92m relative to each other.

[0087] The invention has been explained in more detail above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the lower slides 91b of the sliding strut, which engage under the guide rail 3, and the lower slides 92b of the sliding stake, which engage in the guide rail 3, each disengage in their own way: one 91b by lowering and pivoting, the other 92b by pulling up. This advantageously creates a tarpaulin frame in which, when the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 is open, the longitudinal beams 4 are connected to the loading platform 11 only via the stakes.It is therefore possible, for example, when the stanchions are designed as lifting stanchions, to raise the roof level by lifting the longitudinal beams 4 when the side tarpaulin 15 is open. This significantly facilitates loading from the side and simultaneously eliminates the need for separate steps to detach the side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 from the track 3. However, it should be noted that the lower sections of the sliding stanchions 92 will then no longer rest against the wall 30 and thus, together with the guide arms 93, will no longer keep the sliding struts at a distance. To prevent the folded side tarpaulin guide assembly 9 from pivoting inwards, a guide plate extending the wall 30 can be detachably attached to the end where the folded assembly is located.

[0088] The invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the sliding surface 92g and the hook section 91h are designed as projecting parts having a substantially convex cross-section and engaging in groove-like or groove-like profile sections 31, 32 designed as counterparts. It is understood that any connection enabling load-bearing capacity transverse to the plane of the opening 14 can be provided in the same manner. For example, the guide rail 3 can have a flat plate behind which a sharp-edged hook penetrates with its hook tip, thus enabling full-surface contact.

[0089] The invention has been described above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which a lateral opening 14 of the convertible top frame 10 is closed by a side tarpaulin guide arrangement 9. It is understood that the rear opening can be closed in the same manner, and that if the preload provided by the weight of the sliding strut 91 is replaced by a spring, a corresponding arrangement can also guide a corresponding roof tarpaulin 5 in the roof area of ​​the convertible top frame 10. In particular, in the roof area, a sliding strut oriented to the left and a sliding strut oriented to the right can be provided alternately on the two parallel longitudinal beams 4, each of which, when the roof tarpaulin 5 is pushed together, alternately has a roof bow raised at the left end and a roof bow raised at the right end.

[0090] The invention has been explained above with reference to exemplary embodiments in which the guide arms 93 are each individually connected to the sliding strut 91 and to an adjacent sliding strut 92. It is understood that folding panels can also be connected to adjacent sliding struts, the extendable central area of ​​which is assigned to the sliding strut, for example, connected to it, thus achieving the required distance to the guide rail or to the adjacent sliding struts.

[0091] The invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments with a single continuous guide rail 3, which has the receptacles in 31 and 32 that are complementary to the sliding strut 91 and the sliding pin 92. It is understood that it is possible to distribute the two receptacles on two rails, so that, for example, an upper rail forms a downward-pointing continuous angle with which the (shorter) sliding strut interacts, while a lower rail forms an upward-pointing continuous angle with which the (then longer) sliding pin interacts. The two angles are then oriented towards each other in a C-shape.

Claims

[1] Cover frame for a tarpaulin superstructure, comprising a plurality of sliding struts (91) which can be moved along a longitudinal beam (4) supported against a loading platform (11), wherein a tarpaulin (15) which at least partially closes the side opening (14) of the convertible top frame can be attached to the sliding struts (91), wherein the sliding struts (91) have a slide (91a) at one of their two ends, with which they can be displaced with respect to the longitudinal beam (4), wherein the sliding struts (91) can be fixed to one of the running rails (3) assigned to the loading platform (11), characterized by , that the sliding struts (91) can be lifted off the opening (14) by pivoting the slide (91a) on the longitudinal beam (4), and that the sliding struts (91) are held spaced apart from the guide rail (3) by a spacer (93; 93') in the pivoted state. [2] Convertible top frame according to claim 1, characterized by , that an extension kinematic is provided between adjacent sliding struts (91) which pivots the sliding struts (91) with respect to the spacer (93; 93') associated with the running rail (3). [3] Convertible top frame according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the spacer (93; 93') includes a linkage which articulately connects the sliding strut (91) and the spacer (93; 93'). [4] Convertible top frame according to claim 3, characterized by that the handlebar is elastically deformable. [5] Convertible top frame according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the spacer (93; 93') is connected to a sliding cleat (92) which is arranged between adjacent sliding struts (91) and is movable in the longitudinal beam (4). [6] Convertible top frame according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the sliding strut (91) has an upper section (91o) and a lower section (91u) which can be displaced axially relative to each other by a limited distance, and that the lower section (91u) is pre-tensioned by a spring or gravity into a position spaced apart from the upper section (91o). [7] Convertible top frame according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the sliding strut (91) has a hook section (91h) that can be brought into contact with an edge (31) of the running rail (3) from below. [8] Convertible top frame according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least the sliding struts (91) are each connected to a tensile-rigid clamping device (94) which lifts the sliding strut (91) by clamping. [9] Convertible top frame according to claim 8, characterized by , that the tensioning device (94) comprises a cable pull. [10] Convertible top frame according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the longitudinal beams (4) are supported by stakes (1; 2). [11] Convertible top frame according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that in the area of ​​the loading platform (11) a wall (30) is provided which prevents the side tarpaulin guide arrangement (9) from swinging into a loading space. [12] Method for actuating a side tarpaulin guide arrangement (9) to release an opening (14) of a convertible top frame (10), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 11, of a tarpaulin structure in which sliding struts (91) suspended from a longitudinal beam (4) are lowered with their lower section (91u), characterized by , that when the side tarpaulin guide arrangement (9) is pushed together, the sliding struts (91) are pivoted by a spacer (93; 93') around the longitudinal beam (4) in order to protrude with their lower end (91u) from the opening (14).

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