Coupling component with plug and alignment component movable relative to the coupling component body for the automated production of a plug connection

Abstract

Coupling component (24) of a bolt coupling device (10) for temporarily connecting a towing vehicle (12) with a trailing vehicle to form a vehicle combination, wherein the coupling component (24) is designed for arrangement on a carrier vehicle consisting of a towing vehicle and a trailing vehicle and is couplingable to form a temporary detachable coupling connection with a further coupling component (14), which is designed for arrangement on the other vehicle, wherein the coupling connection is designed to transmit a tractive force causing the trailing vehicle to follow in the vehicle combination, wherein the coupling component (24) comprises: - a coupling component body (27) with a coupling element (20) provided thereon for establishing a coupling connection engagement with a coupling element of the further coupling component (14),- a connector component (32) with at least one connector form (36) as an interface of a supply line of the carrier vehicle for the transmission of energy and / or information, wherein the connector component (32) is designed to form a temporary energy and / or information-transmitting detachable connector connection with a further connector component (30) of the further coupling component (14), - an alignment component (40) formed separately from both the coupling component body (27) and the coupling element (20) and arranged on the coupling component body (27), which carries the connector component (32), wherein the alignment component (40) has an alignment form (44) and is movable relative to the coupling component body (27),such that the alignment feature (44) of the alignment component (40) is designed for the alignment of the connector component (32) in preparation for a plug connection, for a positive locking engagement with a further alignment feature (42) of a further alignment component (38) of the further coupling component (14), characterized in that the connector component (32) is displaceable relative to the alignment component (40) and / or relative to the coupling component body (27) between a stowed position in which its at least one connector feature (36) is not accessible for making a plug connection, and a connection expectation position in which its at least one connector feature (36) is accessible for making a plug connection, wherein the connector component (32) is preferably biased into the stowed position, wherein the connector component (32) is movably guided on a receiving component (82) relative to it.wherein a guide element (86) is provided on the receiving element (82), which is movable both relative to the receiving element (82) and relative to the connector element (32), wherein it is movably guided on the receiving element (82) along a guide trajectory (FT) between a start position and a final position, and wherein it is coupled to the connector element (32) for joint movement such that when the guide element (86) is in the start position, the connector element (32) is in the stow position, and when the guide element (86) is in the final position, the connector element (32) is in the connection expectation position.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a coupling component of a coupling device for temporarily connecting a towing vehicle with a trailing vehicle to form a vehicle combination, wherein the coupling component is designed for arrangement on a carrier vehicle consisting of the towing and trailing vehicles and is couplingable to form a temporary detachable coupling connection with a further coupling component, which is designed for arrangement on the other vehicle, wherein the coupling connection is designed to transmit a tractive force causing the trailing vehicle to follow in the vehicle combination, wherein the coupling component comprises: – a coupling component body with a coupling element provided thereon for producing a coupling connection engagement with a coupling element of the further coupling component, – a connector component with at least one connector configuration as an interface of a supply line of the carrier vehicle for the transmission of energy and / or information, wherein the connector component is designed to form a temporary energy and / or information transmitting detachable connector connection with another connector component of the further coupling component, – an alignment component formed separately from both the coupling component body and the coupling element and arranged on the coupling component body, which carries the plug component, wherein the alignment component has an alignment formation and is movable relative to the coupling component body, so that the alignment formation of the alignment component is designed for the purpose of aligning the plug component in preparation for a positive locking engagement with a further alignment formation of a further alignment component of the further coupling component.

[0002] The present invention relates to a coupling component of a coupling device as well as coupling devices with which the energy and / or information transmitting plug connection can be automatically produced during or after the manufacture of the coupling connection.

[0003] A coupling device with a coupling component of the generic type is known from EP 0 434 472 A1.

[0004] This publication discloses a solution for not only mechanically coupling a towing vehicle and a trailer to form a vehicle combination via their coupling components, but also for establishing a plug connection during the coupling process, ideally automatically. This connection enables the vehicle combination to be powered from one of the vehicles, and / or allows information in the form of signals and / or data to be transmitted between the towing and trailer vehicles. The term "power supply" is to be understood as broadly as possible. It encompasses the supply of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic power—energy forms commonly used in commercial vehicles.Although in a vehicle combination the trailing vehicle is usually supplied with energy from the towing vehicle, it should not be ruled out that the towing vehicle can also be supplied with energy from the coupled trailing vehicle, for example, if an energy storage device on the trailing vehicle is still at least partially filled with energy, whereas – for whatever reason – the supply of the relevant energy form on the towing vehicle is depleted. This can occur, for example, if a vehicle battery on the towing vehicle is defective or completely discharged, while the trailing vehicle has an electrical battery that is at least partially charged.

[0005] The known coupling device is a bolt coupling and comprises a towing vehicle-side alignment component in the form of a square mandrel, which is extendable and retractable in the mandrel's longitudinal direction by a piston-cylinder assembly connected to the mandrel. The mandrel's longitudinal direction runs parallel to the towing vehicle's longitudinal direction, with the mandrel tip pointing towards the trailing vehicle. The towing vehicle-side connector component is rigidly connected to the mandrel as the towing vehicle-side alignment component. The connector component comprises a plate extending orthogonally to the mandrel's longitudinal direction, which is permanently and irrevocably welded to the mandrel. Connector components are firmly integrated into the plate.

[0006] The alignment component on the towing vehicle side of the known coupling device comprises a sleeve that is essentially complementary to the mandrel-side surface of the alignment component on the towing vehicle side, with an insertion aid in the form of an insertion funnel facing the towing vehicle. The connector component on the towing vehicle side is rigidly connected to the alignment component on the towing vehicle side. This connector component, in turn, comprises a plate that is rigidly welded to the sleeve, and the area of ​​the plate immediately surrounding the sleeve extends orthogonally to the longitudinal direction of the sleeve. Connector components on the towing vehicle side are fixedly mounted in this plate on the towing vehicle side at positions that correspond to the connector components on the towing vehicle side connector component when the mandrel is inserted sufficiently deep into the sleeve by an extension movement.

[0007] The connector component on the towing vehicle side is rigidly connected to the towing vehicle or to its drawbar. Therefore, the alignment component on the towing vehicle side, which includes the sleeve, is also rigidly connected to the towing vehicle's drawbar. While the connector component on the towing vehicle side is rigidly connected to the alignment component on the towing vehicle side, the latter is connected to the towing vehicle or its coupling body by a ball joint. This connection is such that the extended longitudinal centerline of a coupling bolt, acting as the coupling element of the towing vehicle-side coupling component, contains the center point of the aforementioned ball joint. The alignment component on the towing vehicle side, including the connector component, is located below the coupling bolt.

[0008] In the known coupling device, the plug connection is always established at the end of a successful alignment movement of the alignment component on the towing vehicle side relative to the alignment component on the trailing vehicle side. This requires a relatively long stroke of the mandrel, as the stroke must first sufficiently align the plug components of the towing and trailing vehicles relative to each other and, once this sufficient alignment is achieved, ensure the plug connection is established. The resulting long alignment and connection stroke of the mandrel necessitates, firstly, a certain degree of pre-alignment of the coupling component bodies supporting the alignment components when establishing the mechanical coupling connection to form the vehicle combination, and secondly, due to the large stroke, requires a considerable clearance within which the stroke can occur without collision.

[0009] The connector components of the known coupling device of this type are exposed and subject to considerable external influences, even when they are not involved in a plug connection. This applies particularly to the connector component on the towing vehicle side due to its arrangement on a drawbar projecting from the towing vehicle body.

[0010] Another bolt coupling is known from DE 44 12 111 A1. In this coupling device, the plug component on the towing vehicle side is connected to the coupling component body on the towing vehicle side with its plug configuration.

[0011] The connector component on the towing vehicle side is pivotable relative to the coupling component body on the towing vehicle side, which in this known coupling device is also formed by a drawbar, about two pivot axes parallel to each other and orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the drawbar. When the coupling connection between the towing vehicle-side and towing vehicle-side coupling components is established, the connector component on the towing vehicle side and the connector component on the towing vehicle side are brought into a position in which a cam drive arranged on the coupling component on the towing vehicle side enters into a positive-locking, force-transmitting operative connection with a cam provided on the connector component on the towing vehicle side.The cam of the cam drive is shaped such that, as the cam drive moves, the connector component on the towing vehicle side is pushed onto or into the connector component on the towing vehicle side, thereby establishing a plug connection between the towing and towing vehicle connector components. Once the plug connection is established, the component of the cam drive that supports the cam secures the connection against disengaging relative movement of the towing vehicle connector component away from the towing vehicle connector component by engaging behind the cam of the towing vehicle connector component.

[0012] The coupling component on the towing vehicle side, which, like the coupling component on the towing vehicle side of the generic coupling device, has a coupling pin movable along its longitudinal center axis, is coupled to the cam drive. When the coupling pin is moved into a coupling position in which it passes through a drawbar eye of the trailing vehicle, the cam drive is actuated in the manner described above to establish a plug connection. A further actuation on the coupling component on the towing vehicle side enables the component supporting the cam to disengage, so that the cam of the plug component on the trailing vehicle side is no longer engaged.The cam-supporting component of the cam drive is bidirectionally coupled to the coupling bolt in such a way that a release movement of the cam-supporting component to release the cam, thus allowing relative movement of the trailer-side connector component away from the towing vehicle-side connector component, causes the coupling bolt to be lifted. This means that unlocking the trailer-side connector component also releases the mechanical coupling connection between the towing and trailer-side coupling components. The towing vehicle can then move away from the trailer, and the connector connection is severed at the latest upon this separation.

[0013] In contrast to the coupling device known from DE 44 12 111 A1, the plug connection of the coupling device known from EP 0 434 472 A1 can be established and disconnected independently of any movement of the coupling bolt.

[0014] In the coupling device known from DE 44 12 111 A1, the connector component on the towing vehicle side is arranged above the coupling bolt such that it is intersected by the bolt's longitudinal centerline. To allow the vehicle combination to turn with the connector connected, either the connector component on the towing vehicle side is rotatable relative to the coupling bolt about its extended longitudinal centerline, or the connector component on the trailing vehicle side is mounted horizontally in a coil spring in a manner not further explained.

[0015] The plug components of the coupling device known from DE 44 12 111 A1 are also constantly exposed to external influences.

[0016] The object of the present invention is to further develop a generic coupling component in such a way that at least the sensitive plug formation of its plug component, through which energy and / or information are transferred between the plug components involved in the plug connection when the plug connection is established, is better protected from external influences during times of non-use than in the prior art.

[0017] This problem is solved according to the invention by a coupling device of the type mentioned at the outset, in which the connector component is displaceable relative to the alignment component and / or relative to the coupling component body between a stowed position, in which its at least one connector form is inaccessible for making a connector connection, and a connection expectation position, in which its at least one connector form is accessible for making a connector connection. The inaccessibility of the connector form for making a connector connection in the stowed position of the connector component can be achieved, for example, by concealing a contact side of the connector form, which is contacted by the connector form of the further connector component when a connector connection is made, behind a cover or panel in the stowed position of the connector component.Alternatively or additionally, the connector component can be located in a housing or partial housing in its stowed position, which shields the connector component or at least its connector configuration from the outside. The connector component, in particular a wall section thereof, can advantageously complete the partial housing to form a housing in its stowed position.

[0018] For the description of the coupling component of the present invention and the coupling device to which it may belong, reference is made to a reference state in which the towing vehicle and the trailing vehicle, each with its coupling components mounted in a ready-to-operate state, stand on a common, flat, horizontal surface and follow one another in the longitudinal direction of the vehicles. In this reference state, the longitudinal center planes of both vehicles (towing vehicle and trailing vehicle) are coplanar, so that the longitudinal directions of both vehicles also coincide. A longitudinal center plane of the vehicle, as defined in this application, is a plane extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and orthogonal to the surface on which the vehicle stands (ground). If there is any doubt, the longitudinal center plane of the vehicle passes through the vehicle in such a way that the wheels of one axle of the vehicle are equidistant from it.The longitudinal center axis of both the towing and trailing vehicles runs parallel to the ground in the longitudinal center plane of the respective vehicle.

[0019] Unless otherwise stated in the present application, this reference state shall form the basis for the description of the coupling device. Thus, the coordinate system of the vehicles or the vehicle train can be used to describe the coupling component and the coupling device.

[0020] In this reference state, the coupling components on the towing and trailing vehicle sides can be brought close to each other along a coupling trajectory to establish the coupling connection, and can be moved away from each other along the coupling trajectory to disconnect the coupling connection. Therefore, in this reference state, the coupling trajectory runs parallel to both the ground and the coplanar longitudinal center planes of the vehicles.A theoretically ideal initial orientation of the coupling components on the towing and trailing vehicles when initiating a coupling process to establish the coupling connection is therefore an orientation in which the longitudinal center axis of the trailing vehicle-side coupling component body lies in a longitudinal center plane of the towing vehicle that is orthogonal to the ground on which the towing vehicle rests, and in which the equatorial plane of the trailing vehicle-side coupling element, which contains the largest diameter of this coupling element, is oriented parallel to the ground on which the towing vehicle rests.

[0021] A towing vehicle within the meaning of the present application is preferably a motor-driven, self-propelled tractor. However, this is not mandatory. A towing vehicle within the meaning of the present application can be any vehicle to which a trailing vehicle is coupled. Therefore, in multi-unit vehicle combinations, one and the same vehicle can be a trailing vehicle in relation to the vehicle preceding it in the combination, to which it is coupled, and can be a towing vehicle in relation to a trailing vehicle to which it is coupled. This applies, for example, to vehicle combinations with a semi-trailer coupled to a self-propelled towing vehicle and to which a dolly is coupled, which in turn can couple another semi-trailer. In such cases, the coupling component according to the invention can be part of a coupling device, in particular arranged between the first-mentioned semi-trailer and the dolly.This also applies, for example, to vehicle combinations in which a center-axle trailer and a rigid drawbar trailer are coupled to a self-propelled towing vehicle. In such cases, the coupling component according to the invention can be part of a coupling device between the towing vehicle and the center-axle trailer and / or between the center-axle trailer and the rigid drawbar trailer.

[0022] Furthermore, in the present application, a component A is generally considered to be load-bearing on a component B if component A is structurally connected to component B in such a way that the movement of component B is the sum of the movement of component A and the relative movement of component B relative to component A. This also includes the relative immobility of components A and B.

[0023] The reference to the further coupling component, comprising a further plug component and a further alignment component supporting it, is made solely to facilitate the description of the claimed coupling component, which by its nature is designed to interact with the further coupling component. The coupling component can be a coupling component on the towing vehicle side or on the trailing vehicle side. The further coupling component is then, in each case, the other of the coupling components on the towing vehicle side and the trailing vehicle side. The same applies to the further alignment component and the further plug component supported by it.

[0024] When a connector connection is established, the connector components of the towing and trailing vehicles make direct contact. Energy and / or information are then transferred directly between the towing and trailing vehicles via these connector components. A connector component can be a male plug, and a corresponding female socket. Each connector component can have a connector housing to which the connector component is rigidly or movably mounted relative to the housing.

[0025] Likewise, each alignment component can have an alignment frame on which the alignment formation of the alignment component is rigidly or movable relative to the alignment frame.

[0026] For example, the inaccessibility of the plug formation for the establishment of a plug connection should always be assumed if a physical barrier prevents a freely moving, matching plug formation from approaching the plug formation, whereas without the physical barrier a plug connection could fundamentally be established.

[0027] Preferably, the connector component is pre-tensioned into the stow position so that the connector component can always be in the stow position when no external forces and / or moments act on it.

[0028] In principle, the movement of the connector component between the stowed position and the connection expectation position can be any movement, for example a translational movement, in the course of which a covering component initially covering the connector formation is moved out of the movement path of the connector component, e.g. pivoted, in particular by the connector component itself, so that after the removal of the covering component, e.g. by folding it away, the previously inaccessible connector formation of the connector component is accessible for making a connector connection.

[0029] A rapid movement of the connector component from the stowed position to the connection-ready position with a short travel distance can advantageously be achieved by allowing the connector component to pivot between the stowed and connection positions. In principle, the pivotability of the connector component can be superimposed with its translational movement. To enable particularly short travel distances and thus rapid movements of the connector component between the stowed and connection positions, the connector component is preferably pivotable only between these positions.To ensure that the pivoting movement of the connector component between the aforementioned positions is as independent as possible from any approach movement of the connector components involved in the desired connector connection, the pivoting movement of the connector component preferably proceeds around a pivot axis that is orthogonal to the direction of relative movement. Along this axis, the connector component and the other connector component can be brought close to each other to establish the connector connection and moved apart to disconnect it. This direction of relative movement is readily apparent from the design of the connector component, particularly its connector shape. In the aforementioned reference state of the vehicles involved, the pivot axis typically runs in the transverse direction of the vehicle, i.e., in the direction of the pitch axis.This orientation of the pivot axis has the further advantage that the resulting pivotability of the connector component, when the vehicle combination is complete, can help to compensate for a relative pitching motion between the towing and trailing vehicles.

[0030] If the connector component that can be moved between the stowed position and the connection expectation position is the towing vehicle-side connector component, which is then preferably provided on a drawbar as a towing vehicle-side coupling component body, this drawbar can generally be pivoted about a plane parallel to the yaw axis of the towing vehicle, so that the orientation of the pivot axis of the connector component for pivoting between the stowed and connection expectation positions can change depending on the pivot position of the drawbar. Preferably, however, the pivot axis is always parallel to the ground surface of the carrier vehicle consisting of the towing vehicle and the towing vehicle, which supports the coupling component and thus the connector component, regardless of any change in the pivot position of the drawbar relative to the towing vehicle.

[0031] The preferred connector component is the one on the towing vehicle side, which is movable, particularly pivotable, between the stowed position and the expected connection position. This is because, when not in use (e.g., when the towing vehicle is parked), the connector component on the towing vehicle side is more exposed than a connector component on the towing vehicle side, which is often concealed beneath the vehicle's superstructure and possibly laterally by functional assemblies located on the vehicle frame within the vehicle's underbody.

[0032] To ensure sufficient ground clearance for the vehicle combination, the connector component pivots from its stowed position to its connection-ready position, preferably away from the ground, so that, for example, the distance between the connector assembly and the ground increases during this pivoting movement. The other connector component can then be located at an even greater distance from the ground.

[0033] To ensure that the connector component can reliably and consistently reach the intended connection position, it is preferably mounted on a receiving component in a way that allows it to move relative to the receiving component. The receiving component can be part of the housing or sub-housing in which the connector component is held in its stowed position. This movement can be achieved by a pivot axis or pivot shaft mounted on the receiving component.

[0034] To avoid unnecessary space requirements and weight, the receiving component can be a shell-shaped component that, in the stowed position of the connector component, at least partially surrounds it. For example, the receiving component can surround the connector component in a U-shape at the bottom and sides, i.e., from three sides in total, while remaining open at the top. This allows the connector component to pivot upwards from its stowed position out of the receiving component into the ready-to-connect position. The receiving component is preferably designed separately from the coupling component body and is movably mounted on the coupling component body.

[0035] A safe, fast and repeatable mechanical control of the movement of the connector component between the stowed position and the connection expectation position can be achieved by providing a guide component on the receiving component, which is movable both relative to the receiving component and relative to the connector component, wherein it is guided along a guide trajectory on the receiving component between a start position and a final position, and wherein it is coupled to the connector component for joint movement in such a way that when the guide component is in the start position, the connector component is in the stowed position, and when the guide component is in the final position, the connector component is in the connection expectation position.

[0036] Preferably, the guide component is movable translationally relative to the receiving component; more preferably, it is movable only translationally, so that the guide component can be mounted as a slide in the receiving component. This results in a particularly small installation space requirement.

[0037] The guide component, which is movable exclusively translationally on the receiving component, can also be used, and especially so, when the connector component itself can only be moved rotationally between the stowed position and the expected connection position.

[0038] For example, a component consisting of a connector and a guide can have a projection that interacts with a guide track, such as a guide groove, on the other component in such a way that a movement of the guide from the starting position to the final position results in a movement of the connector from the stowed position to the ready-to-connect position. In simple cases, the return movement of the connector back to the stowed position can be gravity-driven or achieved by a preloading device, such as a spring. The return movement can be unguided by the guide. However, preferably, to ensure a defined bidirectional movement of the connector between the stowed position and the ready-to-connect position, the movement from the ready-to-connect position to the stowed position is also guided by the guide.

[0039] This can be achieved by engaging the aforementioned projection in a guide groove with two opposing groove flanks, where, during the movement of the connector component in one direction, one groove flank interacts with the projection, and during the movement back in the opposite direction, the respective opposite groove flank interacts with the projection.

[0040] To avoid undesirable support moments that can occur when the guide component moves the connector component between its stowed position and the expected connection position, it is preferred that the guide component receives the connector component between two spaced-apart guide legs of the guide component. The connector component is coupled and guided for relative movement by the guide component on each side opposite a guide leg. Thus, on each side of the connector component opposite a guide leg, a projection on one of the components (connector component and guide component) can interact with a guide track, in particular a guide groove, on the other component to couple the movement. Preferably, the guide component is arranged between the receiving component and the connector component.For stability reasons, the guide component is also preferably U-shaped and surrounds the connector component from three sides.

[0041] In principle, it is conceivable that the movement of the connector component from the stowed position to the connection expectation position can be derived from a movement of the other connector component on the respective other vehicle. This means that the drive energy required for the movement of the connector component is supplied, if present, by the drive mechanism of the other connector component, and the connector component has an auxiliary coupling mechanism designed to transfer drive energy from the other connector component to the connector component.

[0042] Alternatively, it is also possible to utilize the relative movement of the coupling components during coupling to derive the kinetic energy for the connector component or for both connector components. For example, the connector component can be moved from the stowed position to the connection-ready position by the guide component. To initiate a movement transmitted from the guide component to the connector component, the guide component may have a contact section designed to contact a counter-contact component of the vehicle carrying the other connector component, consisting of the towing vehicle and the trailing vehicle. Preferably, this counter-contact component is the other coupling component or the other alignment component.Since the alignment components of both vehicles – the tractor unit and the trailing vehicle – are aligned relative to each other and come into contact with each other for this purpose, the section of the system is particularly preferably designed to connect to the further alignment component of the other vehicle.

[0043] As the alignment components of both vehicles approach each other, the system section can come into contact with a component of the other vehicle. With continued approach of the two coupling components, the guide component can then move relative to the receiving component and thus also relative to the connector component. Due to the previously described motion coupling, this relative movement causes the connector component to move between its two positions. For this purpose, the resistance to the relative movement of the guide component relative to the receiving component from the starting position to the final position is preferably lower than the resistance to any relative movement of the receiving component in the same direction relative to the coupling component, if such a relative movement of the receiving component is provided.

[0044] As previously described, to protect at least one connector configuration of the connector component, it can be provided that, when the connector component is in its stowed position, the connector configuration is located behind a cover component in an insertion direction. The insertion direction is the direction in which, due to the design, a connector connection with the connector component can theoretically be established, regardless of whether this connector connection can actually be established in the respective position of the connector component.

[0045] To minimize the number of components required to form the coupling device discussed here, the cover component can be provided with the alignment feature of the connector-supporting alignment component, preferably on its side facing away from the connector component in its stowed position. To facilitate alignment of the alignment component and the other alignment component, the alignment feature of the first alignment component can have an alignment projection tapering towards its free longitudinal end, and the alignment feature of the second alignment component can have an alignment recess, at least partially complementary to the first alignment projection, widening towards its free longitudinal end, forming an alignment jaw. The alignment projection is designed for insertion into the alignment recess.Due to the relative mobility of the connector component relative to the supporting alignment component, the opening angle of the alignment jaw and the tapering angle of the alignment projection can be chosen to be relatively large, for example greater than 60° or even greater than 90°.

[0046] If the cover component has the alignment feature, it is preferably rigidly connected to the receiving component, in particular integrally and materially bonded. The receiving component and the cover component then form the alignment component.

[0047] Constructively, the alignment projection can have a conical, frustoconical, tetrahedral, pyramidal, or generally polyhedral tapered shape, and the alignment recess can have a corresponding negatively conical, frustoconical, tetrahedral, pyramidal, or generally negatively polyhedral tapered shape. In the case of generally polyhedral tapered shapes of the alignment projection, it can also have several taper angles in different planes, whereby preferably no taper angle is less than 45°, and preferably less than 60°, in order to obtain the shortest possible alignment projection that is still effective with a short travel distance.

[0048] Preferably, the plug connection can be established solely by an approximate movement of the plug components towards each other, without the plug component and the other plug component being directly locked together or similarly secured in position once the plug connection has been established.

[0049] On the coupling component of the type, the alignment component and, with it, the plug component, are pivotable about the extended longitudinal center axis of a coupling bolt, parallel to the yaw axis. When the coupling is engaged, this axis acts as the turning axis of the vehicle combination, and the known drawbar on the trailing vehicle side also pivots around this axis when the vehicle combination turns relative to the coupling component on the towing vehicle side. This results in a coupling component with an undesirably large dimension in the yaw axis direction.

[0050] Another object of the present invention is to make a coupling component of the generic type, but also the coupling component according to the invention described above and its advantageous further developments, more compact, especially in the yaw axis direction, than is disclosed in the prior art.

[0051] Compared to the prior art, increased design freedom in the arrangement of the plug component relative to the coupling component body, such as a drawbar, can be achieved by arranging the plug component and / or the alignment component relative to the coupling component body in such a way that they are rotatably movable about two spaced-apart, mutually parallel plug rotation axes running in the vertical direction of the coupling component body, and translationally movable along a trajectory orthogonal to the plug rotation axes. Due to the described relative kinematics of the plug component and / or alignment component relative to the coupling component body, the plug component and / or the alignment component can be arranged on the coupling component body independently of the position of a gyratory axis-parallel turning axis of the vehicle combination.Neither the connector component alone nor the connector components of the towing and trailing vehicles connected to form a connector connection need to be in line with the turning axis of the vehicle combination and can be arranged offset from it. The same applies to the alignment component and its alignment configuration. Therefore, the connector component and / or the alignment component can be positioned closer to the coupling component body in the yaw axis direction.

[0052] The relative kinematics of the connector component and / or alignment component relative to the coupling component body are described below using the connector component as an example. Alternatively or additionally, what has been said about the connector component applies accordingly to the alignment component; what has been said about the connector component applies accordingly to the alignment component in relation to the rest of the alignment component; and what has been said about the connector connection applies accordingly to the positive locking engagement of the alignment components.

[0053] In the reference state with the longitudinal axis of the coupling component body additionally oriented parallel to the ground, the vertical direction of the coupling component body is orthogonal to its longitudinal axis and orthogonal to the ground of the carrier vehicle, i.e., parallel to the yaw axis of the carrier vehicle. For clarity, the longitudinal axis of the coupling component body then runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the carrier vehicle.

[0054] The described relative mobility of the connector component relative to the coupling component body allows, within wide limits, a relative rotation of the coupling component on the trailing vehicle side within the vehicle combination around the longitudinal center axis of the coupling element on the towing vehicle side. This occurs, for example, when the vehicle combination turns a curve, even though the alignment components in positive engagement and / or the connector components of the towing and trailing vehicles connected in the connector connection are pivotable relative to the coupling component body of one of the coupling components around an axis other than the gyratory axis-parallel turning axis of the vehicle combination. This turning maneuver can therefore be performed with the connector connection established without risk of damage to either connector component.

[0055] If, according to the preferred embodiment, the connector component is the vehicle-side connector component, the described relative mobility of the connector component relative to its coupling component also gives the designer of the coupling device the freedom to arrange the vehicle-side connector component, and with it, optionally also the vehicle-side alignment component with its alignment configuration, independently of the position of the longitudinal center axis of the vehicle-side coupling element. This allows the overall dimensions of the coupling device to be reduced in the yaw axis direction compared to the prior art.

[0056] Moreover, the advantageous relative mobility of the plug component relative to its coupling component body offers the possibility of mounting the plug component riding on its coupling component body, i.e., in the vertical direction above it, and not hanging below it as in the previously described prior art, which significantly increases the ground clearance of the vehicles equipped with the coupling device according to the invention.

[0057] The advantageous relative mobility of the connector component relative to its coupling component body can, for example, be achieved according to one embodiment by allowing the distance between the two parallel connector rotation axes to vary due to the translational mobility of the connector component on the trailing vehicle side. Alternatively, the two connector rotation axes can be arranged together, with a fixed distance between them, to be translationally movable relative to the coupling component. Furthermore, a hybrid of these two solutions is conceivable, in which both connector rotation axes are arranged together, translationally movable relative to the coupling component, but their distance from each other is also variable. Thus, when the connector connection is established, the connector component can be rotated about two parallel axes of rotation relative to the coupling component body.

[0058] Since, in the case of a coupling connection, the longitudinal center axis of the coupling element on the towing vehicle side, parallel to the gyratory axis, and a central axis of the coupling element on the trailing vehicle side, which is parallel to its vertical axis (i.e., parallel to the gyratory axis in the reference state), are ideally collinear and form a turning axis of the vehicle combination, it is preferred, for the reasons mentioned above, if both plug pivot axes are provided at a distance from the coupling element of the coupling component supporting them, preferably at a distance in the longitudinal direction of the coupling component body, and particularly preferably in an approach direction in which the coupling component on the towing vehicle side can be brought close to the coupling component on the trailing vehicle side in the theoretically ideal initial orientation to establish a coupling connection.At least one plug pivot axis is most preferably provided; preferably both plug pivot axes are provided in a state free from external forces, for the reasons already mentioned, at a distance only in the longitudinal direction of the coupling component body, i.e., preferably only in the aforementioned approach direction, from the coupling element.

[0059] For reasons of ensuring the most stable possible arrangement of the connector component on the vehicle-side to the coupling component on the vehicle-side to the vehicle-side to the vehicle-side to the vehicle-side to be the first alternative mentioned above, namely a variable distance between the two connector rotation axes due to the translational mobility of the connector component on the vehicle-side to the vehicle to be ...

[0060] In the case of connector rotation axes of varying distance, it is preferred that the connector component on the towing vehicle side is rotatably arranged relative to a support component about a first connector rotation axis, and that the support component is rotatably arranged relative to the coupling component body on the towing vehicle side about a second connector rotation axis parallel to the first. The support component can then be rotatably arranged on the coupling component body on the towing vehicle side, in particular on a drawbar, with only one degree of freedom of movement, i.e., with one rotational degree of freedom about the second connector rotation axis.

[0061] Furthermore, the connector component on the trailing vehicle side is preferably translationally displaceable relative to the support component along the trajectory orthogonal to the connector's axes of rotation. Particularly preferably, the connector component, together with the alignment element and / or the receiving component, is displaceable along the trajectory relative to the support component. The connector component can be displaced relative to the support component against the restoring force of a restoring device both along the trajectory and rotatable about the first connector axis of rotation. Separate restoring devices can be provided, one for restoring about the first connector axis of rotation and one for restoring along the trajectory. The restoring device for restoring along the trajectory is preferably mounted on the support component.

[0062] The return mechanism acting along the trajectory can be designed such that it comprises two coaxial springs that overlap at least partially, defining a rest position of the connector component with respect to the trajectory, and each of which returns the connector component in one of two opposite directions along the trajectory. Likewise, it can be provided that the connector component on the trailing vehicle side is guided for movement along the trajectory by a plurality, preferably two, parallel and spaced-apart guide devices, in particular guide rods, with a return mechanism preferably being provided on each guide device.

[0063] Fig. 1 a perspective view of a coupling device according to the invention with the coupling connection not yet manufactured,

[0064] Fig. 2 the coupling connection of Fig. 1 when viewed in the pitching axis direction of the vehicles involved,

[0065] Fig. 3 the coupling device of Fig. 2 in the same view with the coupling connection made,

[0066] Fig. 4 a top view of the coupling connection of Fig. 3 at maximum possible angulation of the coupling component on the towing and trailing vehicle sides relative to each other,

[0067] Fig. 5 A rear view of a vehicle-side alignment component, shown in partial sectional and partial exploded view, with the vehicle-side connector component of the coupling device supported by it. Fig. 1 to Fig. 4,

[0068] Fig. 6 A perspective view, partly in section, of the trailing vehicle-side alignment component with the trailing vehicle-side connector component supported by it,

[0069] Fig. 7 A sectional view of the alignment and connector component on the towing vehicle side and of the alignment and connector component on the trailing vehicle side according to the Fig. 5 or Fig. 6 before creating a positive locking engagement between the alignment components,

[0070] Fig. 8 the components of Fig. 7 when the alignment component on the towing and trailing vehicle sides approach each other,

[0071] Fig. 9 the components of the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 with alignment components on the towing and trailing vehicle sides fixed to each other in a positive locking engagement, as well as with plug components on the towing and trailing vehicle sides in a manufactured plug connection,

[0072] Fig. 10 a second embodiment of the coupling component on the trailing vehicle side in a perspective exploded view and

[0073] Fig. 11 a longitudinal section view through the second embodiment of the coupling component on the trailing vehicle side in the fully assembled state.

[0074] In the Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 is a general one with 10 The coupling device according to the invention is shown in different perspectives and with different relative positions of the coupling components involved relative to each other.

[0075] In Fig. 1 is a vehicle frame 12 depicted is a towing vehicle. This includes a longitudinal beam running along a longitudinal axis ZL of the towing vehicle. 12a and a towing vehicle crossbeam running orthogonally to this in the transverse direction ZQ of the towing vehicle 12b .

[0076] The longitudinal axis ZL and the transverse axis ZQ of the towing vehicle run parallel to the ground on which the towing vehicle rests. A vertical axis ZH of the towing vehicle, orthogonal to both of these axes, therefore runs orthogonally to the ground only in the Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 schematically depicts the ground surface U. The longitudinal axis ZL of the towing vehicle is parallel to the roll axis of the towing vehicle, the transverse axis ZQ of the towing vehicle is parallel to the pitch axis of the towing vehicle, and the vertical axis ZH of the towing vehicle is parallel to the yaw axis of the towing vehicle. In this application, the term "yaw axis" is always used synonymously with a vehicle's vertical axis, the term "pitch axis" synonymously with a vehicle's transverse axis, and the term "roll axis" with a vehicle's longitudinal axis.

[0077] The crossbeam 12b can either be directly attached to the longitudinal beam 12a or, as depicted in the figures, via a vertical shield 12c with the longitudinal beam12a be connected.

[0078] On the towing vehicle crossmember 12b The coupling component on the towing vehicle side is located in its transverse center. 14 one in the Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 bolt coupling shown.

[0079] The coupling component on the towing vehicle side 14 includes a clutch housing 16 , at which a in Fig. 1. A coupling bolt (not shown) is movably mounted as a coupling element along the yaw axis ZH of the towing vehicle in a manner known per se. The longitudinal center line KL of the coupling bolt, parallel to the yaw axis, is in the Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 shown.

[0080] On the clutch housing 16 , whose eyelet receiving space 17 The coupling bolt, which is penetrated to varying degrees depending on its operating position, is a locking jaw that pivots around the longitudinal center axis KL of the coupling bolt. 18arranged, which is in the Fig. 1 to Fig. The position shown in section 3 is pre-tensioned. The jaws are pre-tensioned. 18 facilitates, in a manner already known, the threading of a towing eye on the trailing vehicle side. 20 , which represents a coupling element on the trailing vehicle side, into the drawbar eye mounting space 17 for intervention via the coupling bolt.

[0081] The coupling component on the towing vehicle side 14 In the example shown, a Kinetrol 22 on, which serves, among other things, as a source of driving force for a movement of the coupling bolt, at least in the area from the drawbar eye mounting space 17 of the clutch housing 16 The retracted position serves this purpose. In this position, the eyelet receptacle is located. 17 of the clutch housing 16 for inserting and / or removing the towing eye 20 into or out of the train eyelet recording room 17 free.

[0082] The towing vehicle, represented by its vehicle frame 12 , is in the in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 reference position shown, in which the towing vehicle and the trailing vehicle, represented by the coupling component on the trailing vehicle side, are 24 , are arranged directly one behind the other on a common flat surface with coplanar longitudinal center planes orthogonal to the common surface U, along the longitudinal axis ZL of the towing vehicle in an approach direction AN towards the trailing vehicle 20 of the trailing vehicle to approach the towing eye 20 to create a coupling connection engagement with the coupling bolt and thus to create a coupling connection between the towing and trailing vehicles in the drawbar eye receiving space 17 of the clutch housing 16 to introduce.

[0083] The coupling component on the trailing vehicle side 24has a drawbar 26 with a drawbar body 27 up. The drawbar body 27 indicates a first drawbar body component located closer to a trailing vehicle body (not shown). 26a and one of the train eyelets 20 closer second drawbar body component 26b on. At the eyelet 20 closer longitudinal end of the second drawbar body component 26b is a towing eyelet component 28 firmly attached to the drawbar body 27 tied together.

[0084] In the Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 the drawbar body runs 27and with it the entire trailing vehicle with a trailing vehicle longitudinal axis NL parallel to the tractor unit's longitudinal axis ZL. Likewise, the trailing vehicle's transverse axis NQ is parallel to the tractor unit's transverse axis ZQ. Finally, the trailing vehicle's vertical axis NH is also parallel to the tractor unit's vertical axis ZH. This further characterizes the aforementioned reference state in which the tractor unit and trailing vehicle are in the Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 are located. One of the drawbar body 27 The centrally penetrating drawbar body longitudinal axis DL is, in the reference state, collinear with a longitudinal axis BL parallel to the towing vehicle longitudinal axis ZL through the drawbar eye mounting space. 17 in the clutch housing 16 of the coupling component on the towing vehicle side 14 Then, when the coupling bolt, with the coupling connection made, engages the drawbar eye 20 and the eyelet recording room 17 of the clutch housing 16The aforementioned longitudinal axis BL also passes through the coupling bolt. Likewise, the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body passes through the drawbar eye. 20 diametrically opposed in their equatorial plane EE, which in the depicted reference state is oriented parallel to the ground U. The equatorial plane EE of the towing eye. 20 is in Fig. 2 orthogonal to the drawing plane of the Fig. 2 oriented.

[0085] For the sake of completeness, it should be mentioned that a drawbar body height axis DH is the drawbar. 26 or the drawbar body 27 When the drawbar body's longitudinal axis DL is aligned parallel to the ground, it intersects the vertical axes ZH and NH of the towing vehicle and the trailing vehicle. Similarly, the drawbar body's transverse axis DQ is then orthogonal to the drawbar body's vertical axis DH and to the drawbar's longitudinal axis DL.

[0086] Then, when a coupling connection has been made, as described in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, and thus, when the vehicle combination is in place, a relative pitching motion occurs between the towing and trailing vehicles, for example, because a correspondingly curved surface is traversed, the drawbar body's longitudinal axis DL will be rotated by the pitching angle relative to the towing vehicle's longitudinal axis ZL. The same applies to the drawbar body's vertical axis DH, which is orthogonal to the drawbar body's longitudinal axis DL.

[0087] When the formed vehicle train turns, as in an extreme case in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the drawbar body's longitudinal axis DL is angled relative to the towing vehicle's longitudinal axis ZL about a turning axis AA of the vehicle combination formed by the coupling's longitudinal axis KL. The same applies to the drawbar body's transverse axis DQ, which is orthogonal to the drawbar body's longitudinal axis DL. The body axes parallel to the respective angles or turning axes—that is, the transverse axes ZQ and DQ during pitching and the vertical axes ZH and DH during turning—remain parallel to each other. The drawbar 26 It is assumed here to be stationary relative to the rest of the trailing vehicle, although this need not be the case. The drawbar body's longitudinal axis DL is therefore parallel to the trailing vehicle's longitudinal axis NL, the drawbar body's transverse axis DQ is parallel to the trailing vehicle's transverse axis NQ, and the drawbar body's vertical axis DH is parallel to the trailing vehicle's vertical axis NH.

[0088] The clutch components 14 and 24are not only designed to produce the coupling connection that ensures the necessary transfer of tractive force from the towing vehicle to the trailing vehicle for the formation of a vehicle combination, but are also extremely advantageously suited for the automated production of an energy and / or information transmitting plug connection between a plug component on the towing vehicle side 30 and a connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 For the sake of clarity, the corresponding energy and / or transmission supply lines are not shown in the figures; these are the ones for which the plug components are located on the respective vehicle consisting of the towing vehicle and the trailing vehicle. 30 and 32 form an interface.

[0089] The actual transfer of energy and / or information via the plug components connected during the established plug connection 30 and 32This is done via the connector configuration on the towing vehicle side. 34 and the connector configuration on the trailing vehicle side 36 , both of which are schematized in the Fig. 7 to Fig. The connector configurations are shown in the 9 diagrams. 34 and 36 The connectors of the towing vehicle and the trailing vehicle make contact when the plug connection is established, thus providing a way to transfer energy in electrical and / or pneumatic and / or hydraulic form and / or information between the towing and trailing vehicles.

[0090] A connector configuration, in the example shown, for instance, the connector configuration on the towing vehicle side. 34 , can be designed as a socket. The other connector type, here the connector type on the trailing vehicle side, is... 36 , can be designed as a male plug.

[0091] To facilitate the creation of the plug connection, the coupling component on the towing vehicle side features14 a vehicle-side alignment component 38 and features the coupling component on the trailing vehicle side 24 a trailing vehicle-side alignment component 40 up. The alignment components 38 and 40 are designed to create a positive locking engagement with each other to secure the plug components 32 and 34 to bring it into a starting situation that is advantageous for the production of a plug connection, i.e. to align it in preparation for the plug connection.

[0092] One of the alignment components, in this example the alignment component on the towing vehicle side. 38 , advantageously has an alignment recess 42 as an alignment formation. The other alignment component – ​​here the alignment component on the trailing vehicle side – is shown. 40 – indicates a protrusion that tapers towards the other vehicle in the train 44 as an alignment formation.

[0093] To ensure that the connector-preparation alignment functions with a short alignment movement path, at least one alignment component supports the connector component of the same vehicle in such a way that the connector component is movable relative to the supporting alignment component. In the present example, both the connector component on the towing vehicle side 30 relative to the alignment component on the towing vehicle side 38 movable, as is the connector component on the towing vehicle side 32 to the alignment component on the trailing vehicle side 40 is movable.

[0094] The alignment component on the towing vehicle side 38 is again preferentially located at the mouth 18 of the coupling component on the towing vehicle side 14 arranged to allow its relative mobility relative to the coupling bolt and the coupling body 16 also for the alignment component on the towing vehicle side 38 intended connector component 32to be able to use it.

[0095] In the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shows that the alignment component on the towing vehicle side 38 with its connector component 30 The coupling connection is arranged offset along the longitudinal axis ZL of the towing vehicle, preferably in the approach direction AN of the towing vehicle to the trailing vehicle. This allows for a very compact arrangement along the vertical axis of the towing vehicle, while still retaining the alignment component on the towing vehicle side. 38 and the associated connector component 30 above the coupling component on the towing vehicle side 14 can be arranged along the longitudinal axis BL.

[0096] In the prior art, in functionally comparable solutions, the vehicle-side alignment component and / or the vehicle-side connector component are arranged in alignment with the longitudinal centerline KL of the coupling bolt. In the advantageous arrangement of the vehicle-side alignment component according to the invention, which is offset orthogonally to the extended longitudinal centerline KL of the coupling bolt, 38 and connector component 30 can a bolt holder 16a of the clutch housing 16 , in which the coupling bolt is then received when it is removed from the drawbar eye receiving space 17 of the clutch housing 16 withdrawn, along the towing vehicle's vertical axis ZL with the towing vehicle-side alignment component 38 or / and the connector component on the towing vehicle side 30 They are arranged in an axially overlapping manner.

[0097] The following will be based on Fig. 5 the alignment component on the towing vehicle side 38with the plug component on the towing vehicle side, which is designed to be movable relative to this 30 explained. To facilitate orientation, in Fig. 5. The vertical axis (ZH) and the transverse axis (ZQ) of the towing vehicle are indicated. The longitudinal axis (ZL) of the towing vehicle is slightly offset from the perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. Fig. 5 tilted to the left. The alignment configuration on the towing vehicle side. 42 points in Fig. 5 away from the viewer.

[0098] The alignment component 38 with its alignment advantage 44 at least partially complementary alignment recess 42 is attached to two parallel guide rods running along the vertical axis of the towing vehicle (ZH). 46 and 48 Guided in a translationally flexible manner.

[0099] The guidance of the alignment component on the towing vehicle side 38 is on both guide rods 46 and 48essentially identical in execution. For the sake of clarity, the guidance will therefore only be based on the information in Fig. 5 right guide rod 48 explained.

[0100] On the guide rod 48 is a guide pot 50 along the guide rod 48 guided movably along the vertical axis of the towing vehicle (ZH), with the guide pot 50 from one inside the pot 50 existing and thus in Fig. 5 invisible inner helical compression springs are pre-tensioned into their end position furthest from the catcher mouth.

[0101] Securely attached to the guide rod 48 A terminal screw is attached to the longitudinal end furthest from the catcher's mouth. 52 , at which a joint movement with the guide pot 50 connected cathedral 54 due to the preload of the radially inner helical compression spring. The guide cup 50can therefore, starting from its in Fig. 5 shown rest position along the guide rod 48 only downwards, i.e. towards the mouth 18 move towards the guide pot 50 radially outward is a ball joint 56 movably guided, which is supported by a second, outer helical compression spring 58 , which is arranged coaxially and overlapping with the inner helical compression spring inside the guide cup, against a radially outward projecting circumferential radial projection 50a of the guide pot 50 is pre-tensioned relative to the guide pot 50 can the ball joint 56 in the Fig. 5 shown position against the preload force of the joint ball 56 and cathedral 54 supported outer helical compression spring 58 from the radial lead 50a The only way is up to the cathedral. 54 move there.

[0102] Thus, the alignment component38 on the guide rods 46 and 48 in a Fig. 5 shown rest position pre-tensioned, from which the alignment component 38 in both opposite directions along the guide rods 46 and 48 (along the vertical axis of the towing vehicle) is deflectable. On the alignment component 38 is each ball joint 56 in a negatively spherical cap-shaped sliding shell 60 guided, so that the alignment component 38 not only shiftable along the towing vehicle's vertical axis ZH, but also around a pitch alignment axis NA parallel to the pitch axis ZQ of the towing vehicle relative to the guide rods 46 and 48 It is swivel-mounted.

[0103] The arrangement of two parallel guide rods 46 and 48 This is done for reasons of optimal use of installation space, so that between the guide rods 46 and 48a subsequent one in connection with the Fig. 7 to Fig. 9. Locking mechanism described in more detail for locking the alignment components 38 and 40 can be recorded together.

[0104] In the present example, the alignment component 38 a load-bearing component with screws 62 attached, which is attached to the alignment component 38 In the example shown, in the direction of the towing vehicle's yaw axis ZH from the jaw. 18 protrudes away. The connection of the load-bearing component 62 with the alignment component 38 It can also be manufactured using fasteners other than screws, either additionally or alternatively.

[0105] On the load-bearing component 62 is the plug component on the towing vehicle side 30movable along a connecting trajectory VT between two different positions, namely between one closer to the extended longitudinal center axes of the guide rods 46 and 48 The retracted connection readiness position and a connection activation position offset along the connection trajectory VT towards the trailing vehicle. For this purpose, the connector component can be configured. 30 or / and on the load-bearing component 62 Management tools 64 be provided (in Fig. 5 are management tools 64 only on the connector component on the towing vehicle side 30 (shown).

[0106] The connector component on the towing vehicle side is usually 30 such as on the coupling component on the towing vehicle side 14 arranged that the plug component 30 connecting trajectory VT penetrating its transverse center with a towing eyelet receiving space 17or the longitudinal centerline BL, which passes centrally through the coupling bolt in its position penetrating a drawbar eye, lies in a longitudinal center plane of the towing vehicle that is orthogonal to the ground U of the towing vehicle and encloses an angle between itself. The intersection of the extended imaginary connection trajectory VT with the longitudinal centerline BL passing through the coupling bolt is preferably offset from the coupling bolt towards the towing vehicle, which allows for the advantageous arrangement of the plug component on the towing vehicle side. 30 along the vertical axis of the towing vehicle ZH above the jaw 18 made possible.

[0107] As a motion drive for relocating the plug component on the towing vehicle side 30 Between the aforementioned positions: connection readiness position and connection activation position, are located on the preferably multi-part supporting component. 62 a drive component 66and a weight machine 68 Specifically, two parallel guide rails in the form of guide rods are provided. 70 the load-bearing component 62 arranged spanning along the transverse axis ZQ of the towing vehicle, on which the drive component 66 The power unit is movably guided along a drive trajectory AT parallel to the transverse axis ZQ of the towing vehicle. 68 preferably includes helical compression springs 72 , preferably on each drive guide rod 70 One each. The helical compression springs 72 , which do not require an external energy supply, are located between a transverse end along the transverse axis ZQ of the towing vehicle and the end of the drive component that is closer to this end. 66 arranged.

[0108] The drive component 66 can be connected to the vehicle-side connector component 30 be coupled via a mechanical control system, so that, for example, on the drive component 66a protrusion extending from it 66a It may be intended to be set in a backdrop 30a on the connector component 30 intervenes. In Fig. 5 is the drive component 66 shown in its initial position as one of its possible end positions, in which the helical compression springs 72 exhibit their highest operational level of potential energy. This occurs when the drive component is 66 In this initial position, the plug component on the towing vehicle side is located 30 due to the positive engagement of cams 66a and backdrop 30a in its communication readiness position.

[0109] A two-armed bar in the example shown 74 attacks with its in Fig. 5 non-recognizable locking legs 74a (see Fig. 7 to Fig. 9) into a locking recess 66b on the drive component 66and thus secures it against a shift along the drive trajectory in Fig. 5. End position offset to the right (not shown).

[0110] Through a spring 76 , which is on the actuating leg 74b of the bar 74 attacks, is the bar 74 pre-tensioned into its locking position, in which its locking leg 74a into the locking recess 66b engages automatically as soon as it is positioned above the locking lever 74a is located.

[0111] Another spring 78 on the one from the alignment exemption 42 guiding side of the alignment component 38 tensions a locking hook 80 , which will be discussed in more detail below, in its introductory position, in which it Fig. 7 can be seen. The bar 74is also pivotable about a locking pivot axis RS running parallel to the transverse axis ZQ of the towing vehicle, like the locking hook. 80 about pivoting a locking hook pivot axis SP parallel to the transverse direction ZQ of the towing vehicle.

[0112] Based on the Fig. 6 including further consideration of the Fig. 4 and Fig. Section 7 below describes the constructive design of the alignment component on the trailing vehicle side in the example. 40 with the connector component on the trailing vehicle side carried by this 32 be described.

[0113] The connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 is attached to a receiving component 82 The VS stowage pivot axis is pivotally mounted around a storage pivot axis. The VS stowage pivot axis is located in the Fig. The position shown in Figure 6, free from external forces, is parallel to the trailing vehicle's transverse axis NQ. It remains independent of any possible relative movements of the connector component. 32and the receiving component 82 relative to the drawbar 26 parallel to the ground on which the trailing vehicle is standing.

[0114] The connector component 32 is pivotable around the stowage pivot axis VS between one in Fig. 6 shown stowage position, in which the plug formation 36 of the towing vehicle-side connector component behind the towing vehicle-side alignment information 44 exhibiting cover component 84 hidden and inaccessible for making a plug connection, and one in Fig. The connection expectation position shown in section 9 is pivoted away from the ground. The receiving component 82 has the form of a partial housing which contains the connector component 32 surrounds on at least three sides, namely from below and on both sides. A wall 32aThe connector component, which points away from the ground surface of the trailing vehicle in the stowed position, completes the receiving component. 82 together with the cover component 84 to a compact housing – apart from gaps at the component boundaries.

[0115] A guide component 86 In the example shown, it is located along the trailing vehicle's vertical axis NH between the trailing vehicle's connector component. 32 and the receiving component 82 arranged and is on the receiving component 82 The guide component is guided for movement exclusively along a guide trajectory FT parallel to the longitudinal axis NL of the trailing vehicle. 86 can be used with the connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 be coupled via a mechanical control system for motion and force transmission, for example by means of the guide component 86 a leadership backdrop 86a exhibits (see Fig. 7 to Fig. 9), into which a connector component is connected along the transverse axis of the trailing vehicle NQ. 32 protruding cam 32b intervenes. In this way, a displacement of the guide component allows for... 86 along the longitudinal axis of the trailing vehicle NL, the connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 between its stowing position of the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 into the connection expectation position of Fig. 9 can be adjusted. By means of a helical compression spring. 88 can the guide component be placed in its Fig. The starting position shown in section 7 is pre-tensioned, which, due to the mechanical coupling described above, indirectly affects the plug component. 23 is pre-tensioned into the stowed position.

[0116] In Fig. The guide component is located at 9. 86 in its final position, in which the connector component on the trailing vehicle side is located 32is in the connection expectation position.

[0117] The receiving component 82 is together with the cover component 84 , the connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 and the guide component 36 on a support component 90 recorded, which in the example shown is advantageously designed in two parts and has a first section 90a exhibits, which is located on a second section 90b It is designed to be guided in a translational manner relative to this point.

[0118] The connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 is relative to the support component 90 , especially relative to its first section 90a The connector can be rotated about a first pivot axis SD1 parallel to the trailing vehicle's yaw axis NH. This relative mobility is simultaneously a relative mobility of the trailing vehicle's connector component. 32 relative to the drawbar 26 .

[0119] The support component 90 , in particular its second section 90b , is relative to the drawbar that receives it 26 about a second connector pivot axis SD2, which is also parallel to the trailing vehicle yaw axis NH. Thus, the connector component on the trailing vehicle side is 32 relative to the drawbar 26 The plug pivot axes SD1 and SD2 are rotatable about two parallel axes to each other and parallel to the drawbar body height axis DH.

[0120] Furthermore, the connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 relative to the drawbar 26 about a trajectory ST orthogonal to the connector rotation axes SD1 and SD2, which can be translationally displaced. In the illustrated example, the trajectory ST of the translational displaceability of the towing vehicle-side connector component relative to the drawbar pivots about the second connector rotation axis SD2 with the second section 90b of the support component 90with.

[0121] The translatability of the first section 90a of the support component 90 and thus the connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 relative to the second section 90b of the support component 90 is equipped with a guide and reset device 92 realized, which, apart from the use of a ball joint for the translational movement guidance of the alignment component, 38 relative to the mouth 18 corresponds to how it is in Fig. 5 is shown and described.

[0122] Two for joint movement with the first section 90a of the support component 90 connected, parallel and essentially identical guide rods extending in the direction of the trajectory ST 94 are on the second section 90b of the support component 90 each in a storage section 96Guided along the ST trajectory in a movable manner. A pot-shaped attachment component. 98 with one attached to the connector component 32a radial projection provided at the longitudinal end facing 98b surrounds a longitudinal end section of each guide rod 94 , each guide rod 94 and the attached attachment component 98 are movable relative to each other along the trajectory ST. One is located inside the attachment component. 98 between its longitudinal end and the connector component 32 far longitudinal end of the guide rod 94 internal helical compression spring 100 tensions the guide rod 94 and the attachment component 98 relative to each other in the sense of an extension movement of the guide rod 94 from the attachment component 98 out of here.

[0123] An outer helical compression spring radially surrounding the attachment component 102, which end at a cathedral 104 which is fixed at the longitudinal end of the attachment component furthest from the connector component 98 is arranged, is supported and on the other hand at the bearing section 96 of the second section 90b of the support component 90 The attachment component is supported and clamps 98 relative to the second section 90b of the support component 90 in the sense of a movement of the terminal dome 104 from the storage section 96 away. One for joint movement with the guide rod 94 intended projection, for example realized by a guide rod 94 diametrically penetrating pin 106 , which fits into a slot 108 on the attachment component 98 intervening limits the relative mobility of the guide rod. 94 and attachment component 98 relative to each other. The elongated hole 108This runs in the direction of the trajectory ST, i.e., in the direction of the relative mobility of the guide rod. 94 and attachment component 98 .

[0124] The inner and outer helical compression spring 100 or 102 This defines a resting position of the first section. 90a relative to the second section 90b of the support component 90 , from which the first section 90a relative to the second section 90b It can be deflected in both opposite directions along the trajectory ST. Once under compression of the outer spring 102 is the connector component 32 movable towards the towing vehicle and at other times under compression of the inner spring 100 is the connector component 32 movable along the trajectory ST away from the towing vehicle. The described pre-tensioning and resetting assembly, comprising a guide rod 94 , attachment component 98 , feathers100 and 102 and cathedral 104 It is constructed the same way for both guide rods.

[0125] Due to this relative mobility of the connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 The plug connection of the plug components can be rotated relative to the drawbar around the two plug rotation axes SD1 and SD2 and translationally along the trajectory ST. 30 and 32 They can be implemented together at any location, regardless of the position of the turning axis AA, which coincides with the longitudinal center axis KL of the coupling bolt. Thus, the connector component on the towing vehicle side can be 30 offset orthogonally to the turning axis AA at the mouth in the manner described above 18 be arranged.

[0126] The following refers to the Fig. 7 to Fig. 9 the creation of a positive locking engagement between the alignment components 38 and 40as well as a description of how they are fixed to one another after the formation of the positive locking engagement.

[0127] In Fig. Figure 7 describes a situation that occurs during the approach of the towing vehicle to the trailing vehicle in the approach direction AN to establish a coupling connection with an automatically generated plug connection. The alignment components 38 and 40 The alignment component on the towing vehicle and the trailing vehicle are separated longitudinally. Due to the relative movement of the towing vehicle relative to the trailing vehicle, the alignment component on the towing vehicle side moves closer together. 38 towards AN to the alignment component on the trailing vehicle side 40 to.

[0128] On the alignment component on the trailing vehicle side 40 There is a locking bar at the longitudinal end facing the towing vehicle when a coupling connection is made. 110 provided for, which includes an exception112 in the trailing vehicle alignment formation 44 NQ spans in the transverse direction of the trailing vehicle.

[0129] At the base of the vehicle-side alignment formation 42 The locking hook is located 80 in the insertion position in which the locking lever 110 into a hooked mouth 80a of the locking hook 80 It can be inserted. The hook mouth 80a is limited on both sides by a hook leg 80b and through a release lever 80c , which has a hook base 80d are connected, which in the illustrated example are connected by the pivot axis SP of the locking hook. 80 is permeated.

[0130] The hook leg 80b protrudes from the hook base 80d The distance is less pronounced than the trigger leg. 80c , which is attached to the actuating leg 74b of the spring 76bolt pre-tensioned into its locking position 74 is pending.

[0131] In Fig. 8 is the approach of the towing vehicle and thus of the coupling component on the towing vehicle side. 14 to the coupling component on the trailing vehicle side 24 so far advanced that the locking bar 110 on the release lever 80c is pending.

[0132] Likewise, a section of the plant is located 86b of the guide component 86 at a counter-site section 38a of the vehicle-side alignment component 38 The opposing section is formed in the illustrated example by a lower ramp of the towing vehicle-side alignment formation. 42 The plant intervention of the plant section 86b at the opposite section 36a was manufactured at an earlier time than the coupling component on the train and trailing vehicle side 14 or 24although stronger than in Fig. 7, but less strongly than in Fig. Figure 8 shows that they were approaching each other. This occurred after the guide component was engaged. 86 with the alignment component on the towing vehicle side 38 continued approach movement of coupling component on the towing and trailing vehicle sides 14 or 24 The guide component was attached to each other 86 relative to the receiving component 82 and therefore also relative to the connector component on the towing vehicle side 32 moved along the longitudinal axis NL of the trailing vehicle, so that further due to the positive engagement of the cam 32b with the backdrop 86a in the side legs of the guide component 86 a swiveling movement of the connector component 32 from the stowed position of the Fig. 7 in the direction of the expected connection from Fig. 9 began.

[0133] Through the in Fig. 8 shown arrangement of the locking bar 110 on the release lever 80c of the locking hook 80 This occurs with continued approach of the coupling component on the towing and trailing vehicle sides. 14 or 24 the locking hooks together 80 through the locking bar 10 in his Fig. The locking position shown in point 9 is adjusted. The tip of the release lever then strikes the surface. 80c along the actuating leg 74b of the bar 74 and adjusts the latch 74 into the release position in which the locking lever 74a except for interference with the locking recess 66b of the drive component 66 so that the drive component 66 driven by the helical compression springs 72 is moved from its starting position to its final position. This moves the connector component on the towing vehicle side. 30 along the connecting trajectory from the to the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 shown connection readiness position into the in Fig. The connection activation position shown in section 9 has been changed.

[0134] In the Fig. 9 shown locking position of the locking hook 80 has the release lever 80c the actuating leg 74b of the bar 74 completely covered, so that one longitudinal end of the actuating leg 74b due to the preload of the bolt 74 in its locking position in relation to a flank of the release arm pointing towards the trailing vehicle 80c reached and thus the locking hook 80 in its locking position, it prevents movement out of this position towards the insertion position.

[0135] Furthermore, in the Fig. The recess shown in position 9 112 through the hook leg 80b permeated, so that the locking hook is in the locked position 80in the hook mouth 80 recorded locking bars 110 from the hook leg 80b is concealed. The alignment components 38 and 40 They are thus fixed to one another and secured against loosening of their positive locking engagement.

[0136] In the Fig. The guide component is in the position shown in 9. 86 it has reached its final position, so that the connector component on the trailing vehicle side 32 is in the connection expectation position, in which a plug connection with the towing vehicle-side plug component is established. 30 which can be easily achieved by shifting it along the connection trajectory VT into the connection activation position.

[0137] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connector components 30 and 32The connector components are not separately secured to each other in their position when the connection is made, in particular not locked together, etc. 30 and 32 They are simply brought close together and the respective plug formations are brought into contact, possibly shifted into one another.

[0138] The in Fig. 9 Relative position of coupling component on the towing and trailing vehicle side shown 14 or 24 , in which the positive locking engagement of the alignment components 38 and 40 The protection against separation of the positive locking engagement is lifted according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention as follows:

[0139] As especially in Fig. As can be seen in section 4, this is for moving the coupling bolt out of the drawbar eye. 20 Kinetrol, which was intended to be removed 22 via a Bowden cable 120 also with the drive component 66connected. Then, when the Kinetrol 22 the coupling bolt from a position in which it engages the towing eye 20 The trailing vehicle component is penetrated, and the drive component is also lifted to release it. 66 under tension of the helical compression springs 72 returned to its starting position. A ramp. 66c of the drive component 66 During this return movement, pressure is exerted due to the forced guidance by the cam. 66a and the backdrop 30a including the plug component on the towing vehicle side 30 is moved back to the connection readiness position, onto the locking lever 74a of the bar 74 and presses it downwards, so that the actuating lever 74b the same bar 74 lifts. During this lifting movement, the release lever 80c of the locking hook 80released, so that they, driven by the preload force of the spring 78 moved, or able to move, back towards the insertion position. This allows the trailing vehicle-side alignment component to be adjusted. 40 from the positive locking engagement with the alignment component on the towing vehicle side 38 to be moved outwards in the direction of the approach movement AN. During this movement, it then supports against the hook leg. 80b pressing locking bars 110 an adjustment of the locking hook 80 back to the insertion position. The coupling components 14 and 24 and can then be easily separated from each other, since there is no longer any locking or interlocking action between their components.

[0140] In the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 is a particularly advantageous drawbar 1026The following vehicle is shown. It uses the same and functionally identical components or component sections as the drawbar. 26 the Fig. 1 to Fig. 9 are in the Fig. 10 to Fig. 11 with the same reference numerals, but increased by the number 1000 The drawbar 1026 will only be described below insofar as it differs from the drawbar described above. 26 distinguishes, to whose description otherwise explicit reference is made.

[0141] The drawbar 1026 features a drawbar body 1027 with a first drawbar body component 1026a on, which extends along the drawbar body longitudinal axis DL from a vehicle longitudinal end of the drawbar closer to the trailing vehicle body 1026 way to one through the drawbar eye 1020 marked axially opposite coupling end of the drawbar with respect to the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body 1026In the axial direction away from the longitudinal end of the vehicle, the first drawbar body component connects to it. 1026a the second drawbar body component 1026b of the drawbar body 1027 on, which with the first drawbar body component 1026a in a defining section 1130 (see Fig. 11) is attached. In this stipulation section 1130 surrounds the second drawbar body component 1026b the first drawbar body component 1026a radially outward, preferably with very small gap dimensions between the opposing wall sections of the drawbar body components 1026a and 1026b . Particularly favorably located are at least parts of the opposing wall sections of the first and second drawbar body components. 1026a or 1026b in their fully assembled state, they are connected to each other.

[0142] The first drawbar body component 1026aWhen viewed in a section plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body, it has a rectangular closed cross-section. The corners of the rectangular cross-section are rounded.

[0143] Side walls of the first drawbar body component running along the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body and along the vertical axis DH of the drawbar body 1026a are called side cheeks 1132 axially extended to serve as guide sections for guiding the movement of a component within an interior space 1134 the drawbar 1026 lid that can be lowered into 1136 to use.

[0144] In the definition section 1130 are the first and second drawbar body components 1026a or 1026b exclusively by fasteners, here: screw-nut combinations 1138 , connected to each other with a course orthogonal to the drawbar body's longitudinal axis DL. The fastening means 1138Both the first and second drawbar body components are implemented 1026a or 1026b in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body.

[0145] The second drawbar body component 1026b has a first component section 1140 on, which, when viewed in a section plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body, also has a closed cross-section, just like the first drawbar body component. 1026a .

[0146] The component section 1140 A component section with a closed cross-section is axially adjacent. 1142 of the second drawbar body component 1026b , in which the second drawbar body component 1026b has an open cross-section. The component section 1140 The closed cross-section component is the one closer to the first drawbar body component. 1026a located, which also belongs to the settling section 1130contributes while the component section 1142 with open cross-section at the coupling longitudinal end of the drawbar 1026 is closer.

[0147] In the component section 1140 The second drawbar body component has a closed cross-section. 1140 also has a rectangular closed cross-section, comprising a drawbar body cover 1144 , a drawbar body bottom arranged at a distance from this along the drawbar vertical axis DH 1146 and two drawbar body side legs arranged at a distance from each other along the transverse axis DQ of the drawbar 1148 The drawbar body side legs 1148 connect the drawbar body ceiling 1144 with the drawbar body floor 1146 .

[0148] In the drawbar body section 1142 The second drawbar body component has an open cross-section. 1026b only the drawbar body bottom 1148and two parallel drawbar body side legs projecting from it 1148 up. In the drawbar body section 1142 Therefore, it is not a drawbar body cover. 1144 present. In addition, the drawbar body side legs are 1148 in one of which the train eye 1020 nearest longitudinal end of the second drawbar body component 1026b outward area of ​​the drawbar body section 1142 with an open cross-section along the drawbar body's vertical axis DH, shorter than in the drawbar body section 1140 with a closed cross-section. Thus, in the drawbar body section 1142 with an open cross-section, an opening accessible from the outside 1150 formed, through which the interior 1134 the drawbar 1026 is accessible.

[0149] Through this opening 1150 For example, items such as on-board tools and the like can be placed in the interior. 1134the drawbar 1026 It must be laid down and secured in a suitable manner. Thus, the drawbar 1026 for example, it can be used as storage space.

[0150] In the present embodiment, the opening 1150 through the previously mentioned lid 1136 Lockable and optionally releaseable for access. The lid 1136 is in its form of the opening 1150 replicated, which it is intended to close. On its sides, the lid features 1136 Protrusions 1152 which are featured in guided tours. 1154 in the side cheeks 1132 are designed as axial extensions of the drawbar body side legs of the first drawbar body component 1026a are formed. The lid 1136 is thus along the vertical axis DH of the drawbar body and along the longitudinal axis DL into the interior area 1134 the drawbar 1026 Lowerable and retractable. In Fig. 11 is the lid 1136 with a solid line in its interior drawbar 1134 shown in its retracted inactive position and shown with a dashed line in its active position, in which it opens 1150 closes. The lid 1136 is along the arrow sequence P in Fig. 11 can be moved from inactive to active position.

[0151] To seal the opening 1150 in the activated position of the lid 1136 is at the opening 1150 a seal 1158 provided for, on whose inner drawbar area 1134 indicative side of the lid 1136 in the active position. The seal 1158 It could, for example, be cut from a rubber mat or, more generally, an elastomer mat.

[0152] To adjust the lid 1136 This can be switched between the active and inactive positions using a manual actuator.1160 be coupled, which in the example shown is the drawbar 1026 perforated along the transverse axis DQ of the drawbar body. The drawbar body side legs have this feature. 1148 in the component section 1140 with closed cross-section, elongated holes extending in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body 1162 on, which in the fully assembled state consist of approximately equally sized elongated holes 1164 in the side arms of the first drawbar body component 1026a are superimposed.

[0153] The manual operating link points to both sides of the drawbar. 1026 one manual intervention section each 1160a up, which come from outside the drawbar 1026 can be easily grasped by an operator.

[0154] The manual operating element 1160 is also connected by a connecting rod 1160b articulated with a connecting element 1166connected, which on the one hand, as in Fig. 11 is recognizable, with the lid 1136 is connected, and which, on the other hand, serves as a spring abutment for a preload helical compression spring. 1168 serves to hold the lid 1136 pre-tensions into the active position. In the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 fixing means not shown may be provided to secure the lid 1136 against the preload force of the spring 1168 to temporarily set the inactive state.

[0155] What's next in Fig. As can be seen in figure 11, this is the opposite spring abutment of the helical compression spring. 1168 on the towing eyelet component 1028 fixed, for example by a ring screw screwed into it 1170 .

[0156] The towing eyelet component 1028 is in its shape and in its attachment to the drawbar body 1027 , more precisely on the second drawbar body component 1026b, also noteworthy:

[0157] The eyelet component 1028 On one side, it has the towing eye at one longitudinal end. 1020 and has a fastening formation at its other longitudinal end 1172 on.

[0158] The towing eyelet component 1028 , in particular its fastening formation 1172 , is visible from only three sides of the drawbar when fully assembled 1026 , more precisely from the second drawbar body component 1026b , more precisely, from the drawbar body section 1142 with an open cross-section, radially surrounded on the outside with respect to the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body. This means the fastening configuration 1172 of the drawbar component 1028 lies on the bottom of the drawbar body 1148 the drawbar 1026 , more precisely, the second drawbar body component 1026b , on and is along the drawbar body transverse axis DQ to both sides of the drawbar body side legs 1148enclosed, which in the relevant overlap section with the fastening formation 1172 of the drawbar component 1028 in the drawbar body vertical direction compared to the section 1140 are formed with a closed cross-section and are shortened.

[0159] In particular, the towing eyelet component 1028 axially in an extension direction from the drawbar body 1027 , i.e., to one in front of the drawbar 1026 the towing vehicle located, not positively engaged by a drawbar body section or otherwise behind it.

[0160] As already mentioned, the two drawbar body components 1026b and 1026a This is also the towing eyelet component 1028 in the drawbar body fastening section that overlaps with it 1174 of the second drawbar body component 1026b exclusively with fastening means on the second drawbar body component 1026battached, which forms the second drawbar body component 1026b penetrate in a direction orthogonal to the drawbar body longitudinal axis DL and the fastening formation 1172 of the drawbar component 1028 either penetrate orthogonally to the drawbar body's longitudinal axis DL or project into the fastening formation in this direction. In the example shown, the fastening means are 1176 in the form of screws in blind holes 1178 in the fastening formation 1172 of the drawbar component 1028 screwed in. The blind holes 1178 are provided with an internal thread for this purpose. The fastening configuration 1172 In the example shown, it is U-shaped, with the two side legs of the fastening formation 1172 along the longitudinal axis DL of the drawbar body from the base of the fastening formation connecting the side legs 1172 protrude. The towing eye is connected to the base. 1020preferably joined in one piece with a material-bonded connection.

[0161] The through holes for screws as well as the through slots. 1162 and 1164 in the respective drawbar body components 1026a and 1026b These are minor indentations of these components and should not change the assessment of the section supporting them as a section with a closed cross-section.

[0162] The lid 1136 Can not only the opening 1150 not only can it close, but it can also carry a functional assembly, such as the assembly described in detail above. 1180 for the automated creation of an energy and / or information transferring connection with a drawbar 1026 coupled towing vehicle.

[0163] In Fig. 11 is the functional assembly 1180 with a solid line in its non-use position, i.e. with the lid 1136in the inactive state, as shown. Advantageously, the functional assembly 1180 , which are in the active position of the lid 1136 is brought close to the coupling component on the towing vehicle side, with which the drawbar eye 1020 It can be coupled in the inactive position of the lid. 1136 within the envelope of the second drawbar body component 1026b recorded, which one obtains when one views its section 1140 with a closed cross-section over the entire axial length of the second drawbar body component 1026b continued thinking. This results in a small overhang dimension for the functional assembly. 1180 In their non-functional position, their risk of damage when not in use is significantly reduced. Parts of the functional assembly 1180 are even inside when not in use 1134 the drawbar 1026 It is captured and is surrounded on all sides by a drawbar wall of the section 1140surrounded by a closed cross-section. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0164] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0165] EP 0434472 A1 [0003, 0013] DE 4412111 A1 [0010, 0013, 0014, 0015]

Claims

[1] Coupling component ( 24 ) a coupling device ( 10 ) for the temporary connection of a towing vehicle ( 12 ) with a trailing vehicle to form a vehicle train, wherein the coupling component ( 24 ) designed for arrangement on a carrier vehicle consisting of a towing and trailing vehicle and for forming a temporary detachable coupling connection with another coupling component ( 14 ) is couplingable, which is designed for arrangement on the respective other vehicle, wherein the coupling connection is designed to transmit a tractive force that causes the trailing vehicle to follow in the vehicle train, wherein the coupling component ( 24 ) includes: – a coupling component body ( 27 ) with a coupling element provided on this ( 20 ) to create a coupling connection engagement with a coupling element of the further coupling component ( 14 ), – a connector component ( 32 ) with at least one plug configuration ( 36 ) as an interface of a supply line of the carrier vehicle for the transmission of energy and / or information, wherein the connector component ( 32 ) to form a temporary energy and / or information-transmitting detachable plug connection with another plug component ( 30 ) of the further coupling component ( 14 ) is trained, – a separate component from the coupling body ( 27 ) as well as from the coupling element ( 20 ) trained and attached to the coupling component body ( 27 ) arranged alignment component ( 40 ), which is the connector component ( 32 ) carries, where the alignment component ( 40 ) an alignment formation ( 44 ) exhibits and relative to the coupling component body ( 27 ) is movable, so that the alignment formation ( 44 ) of the alignment component ( 40) for aligning the connector component in preparation for the connector connection ( 32 ) for a positive locking engagement with a further alignment formation ( 42 ) of another alignment component ( 38 ) of the further coupling component ( 14 ) is trained, characterized by that the connector component ( 32 ) relative to the alignment component ( 40 ) or / and relative to the coupling component body ( 27 ) is movable between a stowing position in which its at least one plug formation ( 36 ) is not accessible for the establishment of a plug connection, and a connection expectation position in which its at least one plug formation ( 36 ) is accessible for the production of a plug connection, wherein the plug component ( 32 ) is preferably pre-tensioned into the stowed position. [2] Coupling component according to claim 1, characterized by that the connector component ( 32) pivotable between the stowed position and the connection expectation position, preferably exclusively pivotable, about a pivot axis (VS), which preferably runs orthogonally to the relative direction of movement (AN), along which the connector component ( 32 ) and the other connector component ( 30 ) are able to be brought close to each other for the purpose of making the plug connection and can be moved away from each other for the purpose of disconnecting them, and which preferably also runs parallel to the base (U) of the carrier vehicle consisting of the towing vehicle and the trailing vehicle. [3] Coupling component according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the connector component ( 32 ) on a receiving component ( 82 ) is guided in a movable manner relative to this. [4] Coupling component according to claim 3, characterized by that on the receiving component ( 82 ) a guide component ( 86 ) is provided, which is both relative to the receiving component ( 82) as well as relative to the connector component ( 32 ) is movable, whereby it is attached to the receiving component ( 82 ) is guided movably along a guide trajectory (FT) between a start position and a final position and is connected to the plug component in this way ( 32 ) is coupled to the common movement, so that when the guide component ( 86 ) is in the starting position, the connector component ( 32 ) is in the stowed position and then, when the guide component ( 86 ) is in the final position, the plug component ( 32 ) is in the connection expectation position. [5] Coupling component according to claim 4, characterized by that the guide component ( 86 ) a section of the plant ( 86a ) exhibits, which is designed to be attached to a component ( 38 ) the further connector component ( 30) supporting each other vehicle consisting of towing vehicle and trailing vehicle is designed, in particular to a component ( 38 ) from another coupling component ( 14 ) or further alignment component ( 38 ). [6] Coupling component according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one plug formation ( 36 ) of the connector component ( 32 ) then, when it is in its stowed position, in an insertion direction (VT) in which, solely due to the design of the plug formation ( 36 ) a plug connection could in principle be established with this, behind a concealment component ( 84 ) is located. [7] Coupling component according to claim 6, characterized by that the cover component ( 84 ), preferably on its stowed position of the plug component ( 32 ) from this way-pointing side, the alignment formation ( 44 ) of the connector component (32 ) load-bearing alignment component ( 40 ) exhibits. [8] Coupling component according to the preamble of claim 1 or according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the connector component ( 32 ) or / and the alignment component ( 40 ) relative to the coupling component ( 24 ), especially relative to a drawbar ( 26 ) the same, each around two spaced-apart, parallel and vertically aligned (DH) coupling component body ( 27 ) the plug rotation axes (SD1, SD2) are rotatorily movable and arranged translationally movable along a trajectory (ST) orthogonal to the plug rotation axes (SD1, SD2). [9] Coupling device Claim 8, characterized by that the distance between the connector rotation axes (SD1, SD2) is due to the translational mobility of the connector component ( 32 ) or / and the alignment component ( 40) is variable and / or that the two plug rotation axes (SD1, SD2) are arranged to be translationally movable together. [10] Coupling component claim 8 or 9, characterized by that at least one plug rotation axis (SD1, SD2) is provided at a distance from the longitudinal center axis of the coupling element, preferably at a distance in the coupling component body longitudinal direction (DL), particularly preferably at a distance only in the coupling component body longitudinal direction (DL). [11] Coupling component according to claim 10, characterized by that in a state free from external forces both plug rotation axes (SD1, SD2) are at a distance from the coupling member ( 20 ) are provided, preferably with a distance in the longitudinal direction (DL) of the coupling component body, particularly preferably with a distance only in the longitudinal direction (DL) of the coupling component body. [12] Coupling component according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized by that the connector component ( 32 ) or / and the alignment component ( 40) relative to a support component ( 90 , 90a , 90b ) is rotatably arranged about a first of the two connector rotation axes (SD1) and that the support component ( 90 , 90a , 90b ) around the second plug rotation axis (SD2) relative to the coupling component body ( 27 ) is rotatably arranged. [13] Coupling component according to claim 12, characterized by that the connector component ( 32 ) or / and the alignment component ( 40 ) relative to the support component ( 90b ) can be translationally displaced along the trajectory (ST) orthogonal to the plug rotation axes (SD1, SD2). [14] Coupling component according to claim 13, characterized by that the connector component ( 32 ) relative to the support component ( 90b ) against the restoring force of a restoring device ( 92 ) is displaceable along the trajectory (ST) orthogonal to the plug rotation axes (SD1, SD2), wherein the reset device ( 92) preferably two coaxial springs that overlap at least partially ( 100 , 102 ) includes a rest position of the connector component ( 32 ) define and which of which each the connector component ( 32 ) returns to one of two opposite directions along the trajectory (ST). [15] Coupling component according to claim 13 or 14, characterized by that the connector component ( 32 ) along a plurality, preferably two, parallel and spaced-apart guide devices ( 94 ), in particular guide rods ( 94 ), is guided to movement along the trajectory (ST), preferably at each guide device ( 94 ) each a reset device ( 92 ) is planned.

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