Openable structure

Abstract

Openable structure (10) for a substructure (14), comprising a foldable canopy frame (16), a cover (12) that can be attached to the convertible top frame (16), and a drive (70) for folding in and / or out the convertible top frame (16), wherein the drive (70) causes at least one tension element (71) to move, wherein the at least one tension-stiffening tension element (71) can be coupled to a distal slide (32') of the convertible top frame (16) and moves the distal slide (32') forward and / or backward depending on an actuation direction of the drive (70), wherein the drive (70) comprises a driven first rotating body, characterized by that the drive (70) comprises a second rotating body, that the first rotating body and the second rotating body are arranged adjacent to each other and form a drive unit (75), that the at least one tensile-stiffening tension element (71) is wound several times around the drive device (75) formed from the first rotating body and the second rotating body, and that the first rotating body and / or the second rotating body have a variable distance to each other for adjusting the length of the tensile-stiffening tension element (71).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an openable structure according to the preamble of independent claim 1.

[0002] Tarpaulin structures for substructures are known in practice which have a drive with which the roof frame can be folded in or out. The drive transmits movement to one or more carriages of the roof frame via a tension element designed as a rope or wire and which is at least rigid. The power for the drive is usually transmitted to the carriages by a motor which pulls the tension element. Due to the large forces generated, the motor is connected to its own power supply in the area of ​​the substructure. The disadvantage here is that space is lost for the power supply and that the power supply must be recharged regularly. Furthermore, it is necessary to design the drive for relatively high loads, since the power of the drive is also required to hold the movable parts of the roof frame in an open position when the tipping body is tipped.This results in high energy consumption, and the current flowing through the power grid is often so high that the corresponding power consumption is no longer protected. In particular, the existing drives no longer function reliably if the substructure is not on a level surface, but rather on a hill or at an angle with one side resting on the pavement. The existing drives are particularly energy-intensive when the movable parts of the roof frame are opened completely, and the last few sections of the slide must be moved against considerable resistance. Finally, the existing drives are not sufficiently flexible to reliably overcome load peaks that occur, for example, when folding tarpaulin folding aids.

[0003] The generic document WO 96 / 33 882 A1 shows an openable structure for a substructure, comprising a foldable convertible top frame with a plurality of bows to which a cover in the form of a tarpaulin can be connected, wherein a manual drive causes a single pull rope as a pull element to move. The at least one at least tensile-resistant pull element is designed as an endless cable and is coupled to the two distal end pieces of the bows, each of which can be moved back and forth in a U-shaped guide, wherein the coupling locally fixes a distal end piece to the cable via corresponding cleats. The corresponding distal bow is moved forwards and / or backwards depending on the actuation direction of the drive, wherein the endless design of the cable prevents any slippage in the rollers from leading to jamming of the bows.The drive comprises a drive roller that is rigidly connected to the crank and can be driven in one direction or the other.

[0004] US 3 964 781 A describes an openable structure for a substructure, comprising a foldable tarpaulin that can be moved on a rigid frame that limits the top of the substructure. On each long side there is an endless cable that is connected to the tarpaulin. In the front area of ​​the substructure there is a driven shaft that is coupled to a front pulley on which the cable runs. The cable is laid one and a half times over the front pulley and once by 180° around a rear deflection pulley. The front pulleys on both long sides are each provided as an extension of the shaft. The drive is provided either by a motor or by a hand-operated crank that is connected to the shaft arranged at the front end of the substructure via a drive chain.

[0005] DE 102 24 157 A1 describes a cover for the sunroof of a passenger vehicle that can be moved along parallel guides. In this cover, an electric motor drive with an output shaft simultaneously drives a lower winding roller and an upper winding roller. A cable that is coupled to the cover's driver is wound several times on one end of the lower winding drum and other ends several times on the upper winding drum. The drive cable is guided over further deflection rollers. The ends of the cable are fixed to the respective winding drums. A middle winding drum, which is arranged axially between the lower winding drum and the upper winding drum and around which the cable also wraps several times, is freely rotatable and follows the winding movement of the lower winding drum and the upper winding drum as the cable moves.

[0006] DE 12 25 976 A describes a cable drum pivotable about a bearing journal, which has a gear ring meshing with a pinion, through which a shaft journal for receiving a hand crank passes, to set the cable drum in motion. Two traction cables are connected to the cable drum at both ends, with four cable grooves provided on the circumference of the cable drum, which each of the traction cables accommodates when the cable drum is rotated. The cable drum is used to move a sunroof on a motor vehicle, with the maximum rotation of the cable drum being limited by a pin engaging in a groove.

[0007] It is the object of the invention to provide an openable structure which improves the folding and / or unfolding of the convertible top frame by a drive.

[0008] This object is achieved by an openable structure having the features of independent claim 1.

[0009] According to the invention, an openable structure for a substructure, such as a self-propelled goods vehicle, a truck, a semi-trailer, a trailer, a container, a tipping body, a railway wagon, a building or the like, the structure comprising a foldable top frame, a cover, in particular a tarpaulin, which can be connected to the top frame, and a drive for folding and / or unfolding the top frame, wherein the drive causes at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element to move, wherein the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element can be coupled to a distal carriage of the top frame and moves the distal carriage forwards and / or backwards depending on an actuating direction of the drive, and wherein the drive comprises a driven first rotational body.The design is characterized in that the drive comprises a second rotating body, that the first and second rotating bodies are arranged adjacent to one another and form a drive device, and that the at least one at least tensile-resistant pulling element is wound or placed several times around the drive device formed from the first cylinder and second cylinder. This advantageously ensures that the force is transferred from the driven first rotating body to the at least one at least tensile-resistant pulling element, so that even with repeated back and forth displacement of the carriages, the at least one at least tensile-resistant pulling element does not migrate in the direction of the axis of the first rotating body and / or the second rotating body and become jammed there.Rather, the force transmitted by the driven first rotational body to the at least one tension element with at least tensile rigidity is reliably transferred to the slide of the convertible top frame, allowing it to be moved precisely and reproducibly into various opening positions. Even if slippage occurs during transmission from the drive device to the at least one tension element with at least tensile rigidity, the drive consumes only a comparatively low overall power, making it possible to connect the drive to the power output of a vehicle battery of a vehicle supporting the substructure, thus eliminating the need for a separate power supply.

[0010] According to a further feature, the first rotating body and / or the second rotating body have a variable distance from one another for adjusting the length of the at least one tensile-resistant tension element. This can be achieved by accommodating the rotating body in the region of its axis in an elongated hole that allows adjustment towards the other rotating body. This is expediently provided for the second rotating body since the first rotating body is driven by the drive and the drive would then also have to be designed to be displaceable. Depending on the set distance, sagging of the at least one at least tensile-resistant tension element can be prevented, so that there is practically no slippage when transmitting the drive power from the drive to the carriages.

[0011] It is expediently provided that the at least one tensile-resistant tension element is wound several times around the drive device, i.e., around the first rotating body and the second rotating body. In this case, neither the first rotating body nor the second rotating body is completely wound; instead, the winding is approximately 180 degrees, so that the rotating body is wound approximately halfway around each time. The number of wraps is preferably selected between two and eight, more preferably between three and six, but four wraps around the drive device are particularly advantageous.

[0012] Conveniently, the second rotating body is driven by the one at least tensile-stiff tension element, with the first rotating body being set in rotation by the drive. The second rotating body is therefore passive, or rather, is towed by the first rotating body by means of the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element.

[0013] According to a favorable embodiment, the first rotating body has circumferential grooves in which the at least one tension element with at least tensile rigidity is guided. The circumferential grooves and in particular the webs delimiting the circumferential grooves ensure that, depending on the drive direction, the at least one tension element with at least tensile rigidity does not migrate axially, thus preventing the tension element from becoming jammed on the first rotating body. Circumferential grooves are each arranged in parallel planes in the axial direction of the cylinder and can have inlet slopes for the tension element. It is also possible for the first rotating body to have a more or less conical contour, for example that of a truncated cone, in which the circumferential grooves have a different circumference.Preferably, however, the circumferential grooves have the same diameter, so that the moment acting on the at least one tension element with at least tensile stiffness is approximately the same in all grooves. This prevents unnecessary tension on the tension element due to different moment loads in the various grooves.

[0014] Radial webs are preferably arranged between the adjacent circumferential grooves, preventing the at least one tension-resistant tension element from leaving the respective circumferential groove. If the drive device is driven, part of the force transmission can also be transmitted through the friction of the at least one tension-resistant tension element against the corresponding radial web. It is possible to provide a knurling within the circumferential groove that runs parallel to the axial direction of the rotating body, which selectively increases the force transmission to the at least one tension-resistant tension element.

[0015] Conveniently, the first rotating body and the second rotating body, each of which is preferably designed as a cylinder, have parallel axes. This makes it possible to adjust the tension of the at least one tensile-resistant tension element by adjusting the axis distance and also to subsequently compensate for elongation or shortening of the tension element that may occur due to temperature or intensive use. The parallel axes ensure that the force is transferred to the tension element particularly effectively. Alternatively, however, it is also possible to arrange the axes of the rotating bodies at an angle to one another, for example, if the rotating bodies are designed as cones.

[0016] Conveniently, the second rotating body can be displaced toward the first rotating body, allowing the tension of the tension element to be adjusted. Alternatively, it is possible to adjust the second rotating body in a direction that does not change the distance from the first rotating body.

[0017] According to a favorable development, a spring member is arranged between the first rotating body and the second rotating body, which spring member acts on the second rotating body or its axis in the direction away from the first rotating body or its axis, thereby tensioning the at least one tension element that is at least rigid. This advantageously achieves a stable system, since the spring member can be tensioned in the event of load peaks due to deformations in the area of ​​the convertible top frame or the substructure, or when obstacles must be overcome, so that the tension of the tension element is slightly equalized within the system. As soon as the obstacle is overcome, the second rotating body resumes the distance from the first rotating body that is preset based on the spring constant of the spring member, and the tension element system regains its original tension.The spring element also dampens the vibrations caused by the drive and movement of the vehicle and the roof frame.

[0018] An advantageous embodiment is characterized in that at least the second rotating body comprises a plurality of independently rotatable disc-shaped cylinder sections, wherein the disc-shaped cylinder section is each wrapped by the at least one tension element that is at least rigid. As a result, similar to a multiple pulley system, each independently rotatable disc-shaped cylinder section is individually driven by the first rotating body, with the result that the resistance to rotation of the second rotating body is reduced overall. The disc-shaped cylinder sections can be designed in the manner of deflection pulleys, as are used anyway for deflecting the tension element in the region of the substructure. Expediently, at least two, preferably three, four, five or six disc-shaped cylinder sections are provided, which are arranged coaxially to one another on the axis of the second rotating body.However, it is also possible to mount the cylinder sections on several axes, although this requires more complex mounting.

[0019] The force is preferably transmitted from the first rotating body to the at least one tension element with at least tensile strength through friction, particularly at the periphery of the first rotating body. However, it is also possible to equip the periphery of the rotating body with recesses in the manner of circumferential teeth and to equip the tension element with projections in the manner of a toothed belt, so that the positive connection in the area of ​​contact effects the force transmission.

[0020] According to another advantageous embodiment, the grooves and webs can be V-shaped, so that they transport the tension element partially clamped at the circumference, and slippage is practically impossible.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided that a locking pin is provided which can be pushed forward against a rotatable part of the first rotational body, that the locking pin secures the first rotational body against rotation and thus blocks the carriage even in a non-driven state of the drive.

[0022] According to one aspect, a locking pin is provided which can be pushed forward against a rotatable part of the drive, and the locking pin secures the drive and / or the at least one at least tensile-resistant tension element against rotation and thus blocks the carriage even when the drive is de-energized. This advantageously ensures that the drive does not have to be permanently energized to hold the fully, partially, or not opened convertible top frame, which leads to high power consumption and heat generation. Furthermore, this effectively prevents the permissible current consumption from being exceeded due to the wind generated when holding the open convertible top frame in an unfavorable angular position of the substructure or during driving. Finally, manual locking and unlocking of the openable structure outside of the at least one at least tensile-resistant tension element is avoided, thus preventing incorrect operation.The locking pin ensures that, when the drive is de-energized, the carriage cannot be displaced against the preload of the tension element by rotation of the rotating part of the drive into which the locking pin is inserted, particularly a rotating body such as the first cylinder described above. This advantageously not only drives the carriage via the tension element but also locks it. A separate mechanical locking mechanism that must be released manually is then no longer required.

[0023] The locking pin is advantageously operable between an advanced position and a retracted position and for this purpose preferably has an electromagnetic drive which can be easily triggered in one and / or the other direction by a control of the drive.

[0024] It is possible to provide a circuit or arrangement in which the locking pin is automatically advanced when the drive stops. Alternatively, the locking pin can be advanced manually or in another convenient manner, for example, pneumatically or hydraulically.

[0025] The locking pin expediently blocks a driven first rotating body, in particular of the drive, and prevents it from rotating, so that no forces can be transmitted to the carriage in either direction via the first rotating body. This advantageously locks the driven rotating body, effectively preventing the forces that the first rotating body could otherwise introduce into the system, including the tension element. Alternatively, the locking pin can also block another rotating body of the system, for example the aforementioned second rotating body or cylinder or any deflection pulley of the system. In this case, however, this may result in slight fluttering of the convertible top frame, as the driven rotating body may then attempt to rotate beneath the tension element.

[0026] Preferably, the locking pin is biased into the advanced position by a spring element. This advantageously ensures that the locking pin engages with the rotating part and prevents it from rotating whenever the drive is de-energized. For this purpose, the rotating part preferably has a recess into which the locking pin can be advanced, thus preventing the rotating part from rotating further. It is possible to couple the spring element to the locking pin, but preferably the spring element is already incorporated into an electrically actuated solenoid, which then retracts the locking pin against the preload of the spring element.

[0027] Preferably, the locking pin can be advanced into a front-end recess of the first rotating body, which is preferably provided on the side of the rotating body facing away from a motor. For this purpose, the rotating body expediently comprises a plurality of recesses on its front end into which the locking pin can penetrate, resulting in a correspondingly large number of discrete holding positions. It is possible to provide the recess as a curved elongated hole in order to provide the locking pin with sufficient opportunity to penetrate the recess even during rotation of the rotatable part. However, it is expedient to provide cylindrical bores that have a slight oversize compared to the external dimension of the locking pin, into which the locking pin can easily engage.

[0028] To facilitate the penetration of the locking pin into the recess, it is possible to equip it distally with a point or with a conical or dome-shaped section that facilitates penetration and centering. This, in particular, increases the time available for penetration into the recess.

[0029] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the first cylinder has a disc section on one end face with a plurality of holes designed such that the locking pin can be advanced into each of the holes. The holes are expediently arranged at a constant radius around the axis of the disc section and are aligned with the locking pin depending on the angle of rotation of the disc section. Expediently, at least eight, preferably more than ten and fewer than forty holes are provided on the disc section into which the locking pin can penetrate.

[0030] It is possible to provide several locking pins that can be pushed forward simultaneously on the rotating part of the drive, especially when the forces acting on the rotating part are large and can be better absorbed by several locking pins. In this case, the several locking pins engage simultaneously. According to an alternative embodiment, the locking pins can also be spaced from one another by a pitch corresponding to the number of locking pins, so that the accuracy of the holding positions of the carriages is improved by a factor corresponding to the pitch. In this case, however, only one of the locking pins can engage in the rotating part, while the remaining locking pins press against the disc section, for example, without being able to penetrate into the holes.

[0031] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the first rotating body is prevented from rotating under the load of the convertible top frame or under the power of the drive when the locking pin is engaged. This prevents the drive from absorbing high levels of energy to compensate for forces acting in the opposite direction. By locking the rotating part using the locking pin, a fully open convertible top frame can be held in this position without the need for any energy input, even if the substructure, designed as a dump truck, is tilted to an angle of 45 degrees or more to tip out the contents. Even forces acting on the closed superstructure, such as wind, precipitation such as water or snow, sheets of ice, and even misdirected loading with a crane, do not result in the absorption of higher power required to hold the convertible top frame in an open position.

[0032] Alternatively, the locking pin can be advanced into a radial recess in the first cylinder. The radial recess can be a hole pattern provided on the circumference of the rotating body with a plurality of holes or recesses, whereby the locking pin still prevents rotation of the rotating body. However, the disadvantages of this approach are the increased overall height of the rotating body and the required distance from the tension element.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the locking pin is arranged at the end of a pivoting pawl that is pre-tensioned in the engagement direction and interacts with circumferential teeth on the rotatable part of the drive in such a way that the convertible top frame is prevented from shifting in the closing direction. This pawl can be designed similarly to the engagement pawl of a parking brake, so that when driven, it is raised against the pre-tension of a spring, but prevents the slides from recoiling.

[0034] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, in order to release the locking pin, the drive can only be moved against the intended direction of displacement, and that the locking pin is thereby at least temporarily relieved of load so that the locking pin can be retracted. This embodiment of the drive can be easily implemented by appropriate programming of the control system, which ensures that the radially loaded locking pin, which otherwise cannot be easily pulled out of a recess or hole in the rotating part, can nevertheless be retracted. It should be noted that depending on the position of the substructure, the structure and the load on the corresponding parts, the locking pin can absorb relatively large loads, which generally act in the closing direction but can also act in the opening direction, for example if the substructure rests on an inclined surface.If the drive is now first moved in the opposite direction to the intended direction of movement, i.e. in the closing direction if opening is intended, and in the opening direction if closing is intended, it is ensured that regardless of the direction in which the locking pin is loaded, it is relieved for a sufficiently long period of time either during the first opposite movement or during the subsequent main movement, so that the locking pin can be retracted from the corresponding hole. The force transmitted to the locking pin via the rotating body is essentially transmitted via a radial contact on the locking pin. However, this force is so high that retracting the locking pin due to its drive is often not possible without the tension element being moved back and forth.This makes it particularly advantageous to dimension the power for the displacement of the locking pin as small as possible and to allow the locking of the locking pin to be effected by the mass of the convertible top frame acting on the rotatable part via the tension element.

[0035] According to a favorable embodiment, the locking pin blocks the rotating part with a positive fit. In addition to the options described above for achieving a positive coupling, other positive locking options are also possible.

[0036] According to another advantageous embodiment, the locking pin blocks the rotating part by frictional engagement. This can be achieved, for example, by pressing a tip of the locking pin against a rotating part equipped with a friction lining. In this case, a certain frictional force must be applied, for example, by means of a corresponding spring element. The drive of the locking pin then essentially serves to overcome the force of the spring element. It is possible to combine positive and frictional locking.

[0037] The locking pin is preferably electrically actuated and connected to a drive control system. This allows it to be advanced advantageously when the drive movement reaches its end or is only slightly delayed. In particular, the control system can provide for the drive to remain actuated until the locking pin has successfully engaged a blocking position, which can be detected by a corresponding sensor. For this purpose, the drive can be equipped with a creep speed, which, due to its lower drive speed, facilitates the possibility of penetrating a recess in the rotating part.At the same time, the locking pin can be conveniently connected to a signal transmitter which, on the one hand, indicates that the convertible top frame is blocked and, on the other hand, signals to the control system that the drive can be switched off without running the risk of the de-energised drive causing it to slip and thus damage the convertible top frame.

[0038] An advantageous method for opening or closing an openable structure for a substructure, such as a self-propelled commercial vehicle, a truck, a semi-trailer, a trailer, a container, a tipping body, a railway wagon, a building, or the like, comprising a collapsible top frame, a cover, in particular a tarpaulin, which can be connected to the top frame, and a drive for folding and / or unfolding the top frame, wherein the drive causes at least one tension element, which is at least rigid in tension, to move, wherein the at least one tension element, which is at least rigid in tension, can be coupled to a distal slide of the top frame and moves the slide forwards and / or backwards depending on an actuation direction of the drive, is characterized by the steps of engaging a locking pin against a rotatable part of the drive when a more than temporary holding position of the slide is reached,to block the slide even when the drive is de-energized; and driving the slide against a desired direction of displacement of the slide before driving the slide in the direction of displacement to enable disengagement of the locking pin and release of the slide's displacement. The method, which is expediently implemented in a corresponding control system, makes it possible to automate the drive of the convertible top frame and, at the same time, equip it with low power consumption, since the drive fixes the convertible top frame in its open position even when de-energized. This advantageously allows the drive to be operated with low power, such as that provided at the useful output of a vehicle battery, so that a separate power supply for the drive is unnecessary.

[0039] A particularly advantageous design is characterized by being configured to carry out the method described above, in particular by having a control system that executes the method. This advantageously ensures that the drive and locking by the locking pin are carried out in a logical sequence, which makes it possible to avoid manual unlocking of the locking pin.

[0040] According to a particularly advantageous further development, it is provided that the structure has a sensor arrangement or is connected to a sensor arrangement of the substructure, which detects the inclination of the structure and / or the substructure against a horizontal plane and blocks the drive if the inclination exceeds a limit value.

[0041] According to one aspect, a sensor arrangement is provided which detects the inclination of the superstructure and / or the substructure relative to a horizontal plane and blocks the drive if the inclination exceeds a limit value. This advantageously ensures that the drive is only actuated if the inclination of the substructure does not result in a power consumption that exceeds the provided energy source or its fuse protection. In particular, if the substructure is arranged at an incline to the horizontal in the direction of the carriage's displacement, there is a risk that the power consumption will be quite high when the carriage is displaced uphill, i.e. against the gradient. In such a case, the sensor arrangement prevents an overload of the electrical system or even a blown fuse, and in particular prevents the required displacement work from being unable to be performed.This ensures that there is no incorrect operation of the structure, which could result in the substructure no longer being usable.

[0042] Conveniently, the sensor arrangement also detects whether the substructure is moving, thus simultaneously preventing the convertible top frame from being activated while the substructure is in motion. This can also be detected by detecting the forces acting on the convertible top frame, for example, due to wind and other relative speeds.

[0043] The sensor arrangement expediently includes a gyroscope designed to determine the inclination. The gyroscope reliably detects the inclination values, both in the direction of displacement of the convertible top frame and transversely to it, and provides correspondingly reliable information.

[0044] According to another embodiment, the sensor arrangement includes an acceleration sensor that can detect not only the actual inclination but also the movement in the direction of inclination. An acceleration sensor is also advantageously suitable for detecting, for example, a tipping movement of a substructure designed as a dump truck.

[0045] According to an advantageous embodiment, the limit value of the inclination corresponds to an absolute value of no more than 20 percent, preferably no more than 15 percent, and in particular an absolute value of no more than 10 percent. The inclination can be in either direction, whereby it is possible to displace a convertible top frame in the direction of the incline, even if it can no longer be displaced in the opposite direction without exceeding the permissible current consumption.

[0046] The drive expediently includes a control system, with the sensor arrangement being connected to the control system. This advantageously provides the possibility of triggering the drive only when the values ​​detected by the sensor arrangement are within the permissible range.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, the controller stores data for a maximum power consumption of the drive as a function of the inclination of the substructure, and the drive functions can be deactivated if preset maximum power consumption values ​​are exceeded. This allows some of the drive functions to be provided depending on the angular position or inclination of the superstructure and / or substructure, whereby the effective forces that lead to increased power consumption can be stored in the controller as a function of the inclination values. It is possible to link the controller to a self-learning system that records the actual power consumption and dynamically varies the limit values ​​accordingly.

[0048] According to a favorable embodiment, if the limit value is exceeded, the carriage is prevented from moving uphill, and if the limit value is exceeded, the carriage can be moved downhill. While increased power consumption may occur as a result of the initial counter-rotating movement described above, this is limited in time to prevent the fuse from blowing.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, the drive is powered by a vehicle battery protected by a 20-ampere fuse. This corresponds to the power provided by a vehicle battery output for loads such as searchlights and the like.

[0050] The sensor arrangement expediently comprises means for detecting the displacement path of the carriages so that the distance still to be covered can be taken into account when calculating whether the inclination is within the tolerance range or not.

[0051] When the substructure is configured as a tipping trough, a drive control preferably causes the carriage to be moved into a retracted position before an impermissible angular position detected by the sensor arrangement, which corresponds to the dumping of the load, is reached. This advantageously ensures that the top frame is opened slightly before the tipping trough reaches its tipping position, so that the bulk material contained in the tipping trough does not place stress on or even damage the top frame.

[0052] Preferably, the structure comprises a sensor device comprising a position sensor for the carriage, wherein the drive is stopped when the carriage reaches one of two end positions.

[0053] According to one aspect, a sensor device is provided which comprises a position sensor for the carriage, and the drive is stopped when the carriage reaches one of two end positions. This advantageously prevents the drive from having to be loaded against increasing resistance upon reaching the end position in order to detect that the carriage has reached its end position. Rather, the increase in load during the displacement of the carriage can be used to detect an obstacle or disturbance. At the same time, the position sensor can be used to estimate the travel distance and the associated expected travel time, as well as the associated energy consumption, in order to determine whether the required power can be provided.

[0054] The position sensor can preferably detect the passage of a displacement sensor arranged on the at least one tension element that is at least rigid. The displacement sensor is preferably designed as a magnet, but can also be another detectable part. The position sensor can also be designed as a field sensor capable of detecting the passage of the distal slide. The displacement sensor is expediently arranged in the region of the distal slide or is part of the distal slide, so that the position of the distal slide is decisive for determining the opening or closing state of the convertible top frame.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the position sensor is designed as an optical sensor, for example as a line scan camera or matrix camera, which either detects the passage of the distal slide or a displacement sensor connected to it, or determines the opening state of the convertible top frame from the position of the distal slide on the convertible top frame.

[0056] According to an alternative embodiment, the position sensor detects a marking on the at least one tension element that is at least rigid. This advantageously allows the position sensor to be arranged at a distance from the distal carriage if the markings are also provided at a distance from the distal carriage.

[0057] According to an alternative embodiment, the sensor device detects the power consumption of the drive, and the movement of the carriage toward one of the two end positions is determined depending on the increasing power consumption of the drive. In this case, the position sensor is designed, for example, as an inductive sensor that can compare the current consumption of the drive with a stored value curve. The power consumption of the drive for folding tarpaulin folding aids and the like can also be stored in a memory of the control system, so that unplanned power consumption can be detected as representative of a malfunction.

[0058] Preferably, a first threshold value is provided for a current consumption of the drive, which limits the power consumption during normal operation, wherein a current consumption of the drive exceeding the first threshold value is permitted for the duration of a first period in order to cope with peak loads. According to one aspect, a first threshold value is provided for a current consumption of the drive, which limits the power consumption during normal operation, and a current consumption of the drive exceeding the first threshold value is permitted for the duration of a first period in order to cope with peak loads. This advantageously ensures that the maximum current consumption usually provided by the useful output of a vehicle battery and protected by a fuse is not exceeded during continuous operation, so that the battery or the on-board electrical system does not overheat, nor does the fuse blow or blow.The threshold value is conveniently selected approximately 15 percent below the protected current consumption to avoid random fluctuations in current consumption. However, the power supply fuse for the useful output of a vehicle battery is quite slow, so a brief exceedance of the maximum consumption is harmless as long as the initial period is not exceeded. This enables the drive to provide the particularly energy-intensive process of starting up and pushing up the tarpaulin folding aids of the convertible top frame, which requires overcoming a comparatively large weight force, with increased power consumption. This results in an overall oscillating current consumption, with load peaks whenever the tarpaulin folding aids are pushed up.This allows the convertible top frame's drive system to be equipped with a power that repeatedly exceeds the rated power provided by a vehicle battery's useful output without triggering its fuse. The first period can be scheduled several times during the relocation of the body.

[0059] The first threshold value for the current consumption preferably corresponds to the rated current of a drive motor and is, for example, 10 amps. If the motor is more powerful, the maximum of the protected current consumption and the rated current of the motor is appropriate as the maximum value for the first threshold value. It is possible to select a safety discount from the protected current consumption for the threshold value, for example 19 amps, particularly preferably 18 amps, and in a particularly advantageous embodiment 17.5 amps. This maintains a sufficient distance from the protected power of the vehicle battery, while at the same time allowing the convertible top frame to be opened and closed at a suitable speed. However, a safety discount from the rated current of the motor is not required for the threshold value. The motor can also be operated with a power consumption that exceeds the rated current for a comparatively short period of time.

[0060] Preferably, the first period is between 0.0001 seconds (one tenth of a millisecond) and 10 seconds, more preferably between 0.001 seconds (one millisecond) and 5 seconds, and most advantageously between 0.01 (10 milliseconds) and 3 seconds. The first period is thus sufficiently long to initiate the work of raising the tarpaulin folding aids, particularly when the vehicle has a certain incline and / or the tarpaulin is loaded by snow, ice, or rain, with the power consumption being reduced again once the work of raising the tarpaulin has been overcome. In practice, the first period is several tenths of a second, approximately 2 to 8 tenths of a second, so that an increased power consumption is briefly possible with an applied nominal voltage of 24 volts.

[0061] Furthermore, it is advantageous to additionally provide for a second threshold for the drive's current consumption for the duration of the first period, which limits the power consumption during the first period, for example to the protected amount of a vehicle battery's useful output, which is, for example, 20 amps. This ensures that the fuses do not blow, even when peak loads are being handled. If the first period is selected to be quite short, i.e. less than 8 or, better yet, less than 3 tenths of a second, it is possible to select the second threshold for the drive's current consumption even higher than the protected current consumption, since the inertia of the fuse allows this. For example, with a protected current consumption of 20 amps and a rated motor current of 20 amps, the second threshold can be set to 30 amps in order to provide increased power.

[0062] It is possible to provide a minimum time interval between successive first time periods, for example to ensure that the system does not overheat or that the safety device does not trigger despite its inertia. The interval is expediently the duration of the first time period, preferably twice the duration of the first time period, and particularly advantageously at least five times the first time period. Thus, the interval and the first time period are approximately coordinated with each other in proportion to the travel distances of the carriage, so that the travel speed of the carriages for performing the work of opening or closing the convertible top frame is constant, at least to a first approximation, and for the outside observer, a smooth, smooth, and harmonious movement sequence is provided.

[0063] It is possible to measure the current consumption of the movement of the slides for opening and closing the roof frame while driving and to adjust the driving speed depending on whether the threshold and first period parameters are reached.

[0064] The power consumption of the drive is expediently oscillating, so that there is a high power consumption in the area of ​​the pushing up of the tarpaulin folding aids or the overcoming of resistances such as deformations of the substructure, damage to the guide and so on, and a low power consumption during the rest of the carriage movement.

[0065] Conveniently, the drive is electrically powered by a power source of a vehicle transporting the substructure, for example, the vehicle battery or its power output. This eliminates the need to equip the substructure or body with its own battery or power supply, eliminating the need to charge or maintain this power source.

[0066] According to a preferred development of the structure, it is provided that the control of the vehicle controls the drive of the structure.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, the maximum current consumption of the drive is reached when a tarpaulin folding aid is raised. However, it is also possible for the maximum current consumption to be reached when starting up, overcoming an obstacle, or compensating for the deformation of a substructure.

[0068] The maximum current consumption of the body's displacement movement depends on several parameters, including the inclination of the body or substructure relative to the horizontal. For example, displacement uphill results in a higher current consumption than displacement downhill. Therefore, a sensor arrangement is expediently provided that detects the inclination of the body or substructure, and the control system includes means that determine the expected current consumption depending on the vehicle's inclination. Depending on the inclination and the current consumption when not tilted, the drive of the convertible top frame may be blocked if the inclination exceeds a critical threshold.

[0069] An advantageous method for opening and closing a structure for a substructure, such as a self-propelled motor vehicle, a truck, a semi-trailer, a trailer, a container, a tipping body, a building, or the like, comprising a foldable top frame, a cover, in particular a tarpaulin, which can be connected to the top frame, and a drive for folding and / or unfolding the top frame, wherein the drive causes at least one tension element, which is at least rigid in tension, to move, wherein the at least one tension element, which is at least rigid in tension, can be coupled to a distal slide of the top frame and moves the slide forwards and / or backwards depending on an actuation direction of the drive, is characterized by the steps of driving the slide with a power which is below a first threshold value for a current consumption of the drive in order to displace the slide,and driving the carriage for a first period of time at a power level exceeding the first threshold current consumption of the drive to displace the carriage when a work peak is required due to the cover being pushed open. The method advantageously makes it possible to provide power peaks for the assembly despite a comparatively low-protected electrical power.

[0070] According to one aspect, a structure is provided that includes a control system configured to carry out the method described above. The control system is designed such that the structure does not require its own energy source to open and close the convertible top frame, but can access existing energy sources or their useful output.

[0071] A practical design of the structure is characterized by the provision of a camera that scans the interior of at least the substructure. This advantageously makes it possible to detect whether the substructure is filled or not and whether there are any bulk materials or contaminants in the area where the carriages are moved.

[0072] Another advantageous development of the structure is the inclusion of a work light that illuminates the interior of at least the substructure. The work light can be powered by the same power supply as the drive and makes it possible to provide the lighting required for loading the substructure, for example.

[0073] It is advisable to switch off the headlight when the drive is motor-driven to avoid exceeding the power consumption limits of the power supply.

[0074] According to a favorable embodiment, a control panel connected to a drive control system is arranged on the substructure or on the superstructure. The control panel is expediently equipped with a plurality of control buttons and several displays with which the drive can be operated. For example, one control button can be used to open the drive. Another control button can be used to close the convertible top frame. Displays can indicate, for example, malfunctions or permissible or impermissible inclination positions; furthermore, control buttons can be provided for the headlights or the camera. It is also possible to provide a display in the control panel that shows the images captured by the camera.

[0075] According to a further advantageous implementation, the drive comprises a controller having an interface with a hotspot, in particular a WiFi or Bluetooth hotspot, via which a control device connected to the hotspot, such as a smartphone or tablet computer, can be used to operate the drive. This eliminates the need for an operator to enter inputs directly on the control panel; instead, this can be done via the external control device. For example, the driver of a semi-trailer truck can remotely control the trailer body using a tablet PC or their smartphone, while simultaneously viewing the camera image on their control device's display.

[0076] Furthermore, the control panel can also be located in the cab of a corresponding truck.

[0077] The ability to use an external control device makes it particularly possible to use self-driving trucks where no driver can operate the substructure or superstructure. In this case, it is sufficient for a person equipped with a control device at the destination to identify themselves as an authorized operator via the hotspot and issue the appropriate commands. This can also be done automatically by a computer.

[0078] With a favorable design of the substructure as a tipping trough, the carriage is advantageously retracted when an angle setting detected by the sensor arrangement, which corresponds to the unloading of the load, is reached, preventing the load from damaging the roof frame and, in particular, the tarpaulin. In this case, the relocation or retraction of the carriage can be initiated before the tipping trough has reached its final angular position.

[0079] Preferably, further slides on one side of the convertible top frame are free from the at least one tension element that is at least rigid. This makes it possible for the slides to move freely on a guide of the convertible top frame, and for only the distal slide to be coupled to the tension element by a corresponding device. Alternatively, the distal slide can be driven by a sliding piece connected to the tension element, which only acts on the distal slide in one direction, so that the slide opens against the restoring force of the mass of the convertible top frame by the drive, but closes under the load of the mass without a drive.

[0080] The at least one tension element, which is at least tensile-resistant, expediently runs partially parallel to a guide rail for the slide. This allows it to be easily coupled to the distal slide.

[0081] The at least one tension-resistant tension element is expediently designed as an endless, closed tension element, so that the drive can move it in both directions. The tension element can optionally drive the distal slide on one side of the convertible top frame or both distal slides on both sides of the convertible top frame.

[0082] Advantageously, the at least one tension element which is at least tensile-resistant is designed as a metallic wire, in particular made of steel, which is not very stretchable, only slightly lengthens or shortens in the event of temperature fluctuations, and which is very robust against external influences.

[0083] The ends of the at least one tension-resistant tension element are preferably connected to one another with a clamp to create a continuously rotating tension element, wherein the clamp advantageously also provides the connection to a distal slide of the convertible top frame. If multiple slides are driven by the tension element, a second clamp can easily be connected to the tension element.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one tension element with at least tensile rigidity is connected to two distal slides connected to a common spar, and the tension element drives the two distal slides simultaneously. For this purpose, it is not necessary to provide two tension elements; rather, the drive enables the two slides to be driven simultaneously. If the convertible top frame has a sufficiently rigid end slide, this allows the distal slide to be driven from only one side, eliminating the need to drive two distal slides simultaneously.

[0085] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one tension-resistant tension element is connected to a distal slide, which is connected to a beam, and drives the collapsible top frame on one side. It is also possible for the distal slide not to be connected to a beam, for example, if the tarpaulin folding aid has a lifting beam. In this case, the at least one tension-resistant tension element is connected to a distal slide and drives the collapsible top frame on one side.

[0086] Advantageously, the at least one tension element, which is at least tensile-resistant, fixes the connected carriage(s) in their position when the rotatable part is locked in a rotational angle position. This eliminates the need for a manually releasable locking mechanism.

[0087] The drive preferably comprises a 24-volt motor, which is readily available on the market as a standard product and does not require a large installation space.

[0088] Alternatively, the drive can include an attachment for a hand crank, so that instead of flanging an electric motor, the hand crank can also be used to open and close the convertible top frame.

[0089] According to a first preferred embodiment, the structure defines a closable upper roof opening of the substructure. In this case, the cover is, for example, a roof tarpaulin that is intended to be opened or closed for loading and / or unloading.

[0090] In an alternative embodiment, the body can be designed to close off a side roof opening of the substructure, for example, a side loading opening of a curtainsider. In this case, the cover is designed, for example, as a side tarpaulin of the substructure.

[0091] The cover is preferably designed as a foldable tarpaulin, but it is also possible to construct the cover from several articulated, foldable panels that span a foldable hard roof. However, the power consumption of the drive for folding panels is significantly higher than for a tarpaulin, because not only are the moving masses higher, but the lack of flexibility of the panels also hinders the kinematics.

[0092] The convertible top frame can also be designed to be openable in both directions, allowing not only the distal slide to be driven for ejecting the convertible top frame, but also a proximal slide. In this case, the connection of the at least one tension-resistant tension element to the slide must be designed such that the connection only drives the slide in one direction and not in the other. This allows the tension element to be used in both directions to drive one and / or the other slide.

[0093] According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element is directly connected to the carriage, so that the transmission of the drive force via the tension element to the distal carriage can take place with few intermediate elements. Alternatively, it is possible to equip the carriage with a connecting part that projects downwards from the carriage, for example, and that extends into the displacement area of ​​the tension element, so that it is not necessary to install the tension element on the substructure or on the guide directly at the level of the carriage. In a favorable embodiment, it is further provided that the tensile-stiff tension element is coupled to a lever that is pivotally connected to the carriage.The lever is advantageously an extension of a part already attached to the distal slide, for example, a distal cover pivoted about the lever's axis. However, it is also possible to attach the lever to the distal slide independently.

[0094] The at least one tension element, which is at least rigid in tension, expediently comprises a first deflection device around which the tension element is placed. This first deflection device is expediently a distal deflection pulley that can be arranged in the region of the distal carriage when the top frame is closed. The first deflection device is expediently rotatable about a horizontal axis and directly or indirectly attached to the substructure, so that the tension element can move endlessly over the first deflection device in the manner of an upper or lower strand.

[0095] Preferably, the at least one tension-resistant tension element is further placed around a second deflection device, which is preferably designed as a deflection roller that is rotatable about a vertical axis, for example, in the region of a section extending the substructure. This allows the tension element to be deflected in a direction that is at least approximately perpendicular to the extension of the tension element between the second deflection device and the first deflection device. In this way, one longitudinal side of the substructure can also be advantageously actuated by the same tension element as the second longitudinal side of the substructure.

[0096] Preferably, the at least one tension element that is at least rigid in terms of tension is also placed around a third deflection device, which is preferably a deflection pulley that is rotatably connected about a substantially vertical axis to a region that continues the substructure, such that both the upper run and the lower run, which come from the first deflection device, are coupled to the rotating body that drives the tension element. The coupling can be effected such that the tension element is coupled to a first rotating body driven by a motor, wherein the tension element is wound several times around the first rotating body. If the convertible top frame is driven from two sides, the tension element is connected by one of the second deflection device and the third deflection device to an opposite deflection device, and the returning part of the tension element is then connected to the driving first rotating body of the drive.It is understood that the drive can be designed as described in detail above.

[0097] Further advantages, properties and developments of the invention emerge from the dependent claims and from the description of the following embodiment.

[0098] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings using a preferred embodiment. Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an openable structure designed as a tarpaulin structure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a portion of the distal carriage of the assembly of Fig. 1 from the side. Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a rear area of ​​the body of Fig. 1 from the side. Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a rear area of ​​the body of Fig. 1 from behind. Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the drive device of the structure of Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a rear portion of the body of Fig. 1 of the Fig. 3 opposite side. Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the drive device of the structure of Fig. 1. Fig. 8 shows a longitudinal section through the drive device. Fig. 9 shows a front view of a control panel of the structure of Fig. 1. Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of the guide of the tension element from Fig. 1 to 9.

[0099] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an openable superstructure 10 designed as a tarpaulin structure, in which a tarpaulin is indicated as a cover 12, shown in dash-dotted lines. This cover 12 is not shown in the other figures for clarity. Furthermore, part of a silhouette of a substructure 14 designed as a container is indicated by a dashed line, which is covered by a roof frame 16. The container is designed, for example, as a rubble trough in which rubble and also dusty materials can be collected, which is why the cover 12 is practical due to the tarpaulin structure and may even be required for transport on a truck. A front end wall of the container is designed as a trough flap, which is connected to the container via a pivot joint and which enables the container to be emptied by tipping.

[0100] The tarpaulin structure has a connected guide rail 20 on each side of the container's outer wall. The guide rail consists of a plurality of guide rail sections that are secured to the container's outer wall at a distance from the container, for example, by rivets, screws, or other suitable fastening means that allow a defined distance from the container's outer wall. As a result, the guide rail 20 is formed as a continuous part composed of several sections with a rectangular profile. When installed, the guide rail has the top and bottom sides as narrow sides and the wide sides parallel to the container wall.

[0101] At the rear end of the top frame 16 in the opening direction, which is in Fig. 1 on the left, the top frame 16 projects beyond the end of the container, with an essentially triangular console or plate 22 being connected to the rear of the container as an extension of the outer wall of the container, onto which the guide rail 20 also continues. The purpose of the projecting area is to be able to completely expose the entire filling opening of the container when opened, by allowing the movable parts of the top frame 16, which will be described later, to be moved there. In particular, no parts of the tarpaulin structure should hinder the filling of the container. The triangular plate 22 extends higher than the level of the guide rail 20 and also extends the lateral outer wall of the container to the rear at this height.In practice, the sides of a container are often designated according to the direction in which it is moved, the flap usually being located at the rear of the vehicle; however, in the present case, the area in which the movable parts of the roof frame 16 gather when the tarpaulin structure is opened is referred to as the rear end, and the front end is the one that is released first from a closed tarpaulin structure.

[0102] Furthermore, an end stop 24 spanning the container width is provided, which lies essentially in a plane perpendicular to the guide rails 20 and has an inverted U-shape, and is connected by the ends of the U to the triangular plates 22 at their ends.

[0103] The roof frame 16 further comprises a sliding roof arrangement 30 which is movable along the guide rails 20 and which can be opened to expose the loading opening of the container and closed again to cover it.

[0104] The sliding roof arrangement 30 comprises a plurality of carriages 32 that can be moved along the guide rail 20. Each carriage 32, located opposite one another with respect to a longitudinal bisector—that is, the plane located centrally between the side walls of the container or the plane running centrally and parallel to the guide rails 20—is connected to one another via a U-shaped beam 34. The beam 34 has two curved corner pieces and, optionally, an elongated connecting piece made of a round tube that are plugged together, thereby achieving favorable standardization of the parts. All beams 34 provided on the carriages 32 are at the same height, which approximately corresponds to the height of the tarpaulin when the tarpaulin structure is closed. For this purpose, the tarpaulin is connected to the beams 34 via suitable connecting means, for example, via buckles or straps or receptacles formed in the tarpaulin.The number of slides 32 and thus the number of beams 34 can vary depending on the length of the tarpaulin structure.

[0105] Furthermore, on each slide 32, a pivoting bracket 36 is pivotally connected to both sides of the beam 34 via a joint, which is also assembled from a cylindrical tube via an angle piece and an elongated connecting piece. A pivoting bracket 26 is also pivotally connected to the end stop 24 at the level of the slide 32, but cannot be moved along the guide rails 20. Overall, it is possible to arrange the pivoting brackets 26, 36 higher up than the slide 32, i.e., on the legs of the beams 34 formed by the corner pieces. For tarpaulin bodies that, for example, only cover a loading platform, brackets connected at a medium height are sufficient. The pivoting brackets 26, 36 extend at a shallow angle of approximately 30° to the horizontal and form an angle of approximately 60° with the associated beam 34 or the end stop 24.The swivel brackets 26, 36 can each be swiveled up to an angular position of approximately 90° to the horizontal, in which they run practically parallel to the respective bars 34 or end stop 24.

[0106] On the front pair of slides 32', which are connected to one another by a more stable spar 34' than the other spars 34, a cover bracket 46 is connected in a joint on the side facing away from the rest of the convertible top frame 16. This cover bracket can be pivoted between a downwardly pivoted, essentially horizontal position, i.e., approximately 0° inclination to the horizontal, and a vertical position, i.e., approximately 135° inclination to the horizontal. The pivoting movement of the cover bracket 46 tensions the tarpaulin. It can be seen that the cover bracket 46 in turn comprises two (multiply) bent bracket sections and an elongated connecting piece, which are connected to a frame section of the front slide 32' at a distance from the spar 34'. Between the articulation of the cover bracket 46 and the spar 34', an auxiliary bracket 36' is hinged in a joint which protrudes at an angle of approximately 45° to the horizontal.

[0107] A special feature of a tarpaulin structure for a container is that the container is highly rigid, so the cover frame 16 must follow the container's shape changes. These can be caused by thermal expansion, for example, when filled with hot fluid, or deformation of the container, for example, due to the mass of the contents or due to mechanical damage. Therefore, a feature of the cover frame is that the U-shaped beams 34, pivot brackets 36, and cover brackets 46 allow a certain amount of springy deformation in the Y direction, which is the horizontal axis perpendicular to the direction of displacement (X axis). This allows the cover frame 16 to compensate for tolerances of up to 50 mm without permanently impeding the movement of the carriages 32, 32'.Since the guide rail 20 can sometimes be damaged during container handling, it is advantageously composed of sections that can be removed and replaced or straightened as needed. The angles specified above also indicate the angle of the plane in which the bracket lies to the horizontal—the pivot axis of the joints is in the Y direction.

[0108] Facing pivot brackets 36 of adjacent carriages 32, 32' are connected to each other in the region of the angle pieces 36a via two pivot angle limiters 38. The pivot bracket 26 hinged to the end stop 24 and the rearmost of the pivot brackets 36 are connected to each other via a linkage kinematics 138 designed as a knee joint.

[0109] Both carriages 32' connected to the frontmost spar 34' are driven by an electric drive 70 to displace the sliding roof assembly 30 along the guide rail 20. The drive 70 comprises a tension-resistant tension element 71 designed as an endless wire, i.e., a closed one, which is coupled to the frontmost carriage 32' via a clamping arrangement 71a, so that the movement of the wire displaces the frontmost or distal carriage 32'. The drive 70 further comprises a motor 72, which is designed as a 24-volt electric motor, whose output shaft 72a is coupled to a worm 72b, which meshes with an input shaft 73a of a first rotary body designed as a first cylinder 73. It is possible for a slip clutch to be arranged between the motor 72 and the first cylinder 73 to decouple the parts in the event of a mechanical overload.It is also possible to provide a gearbox or to establish other connections between the motor 72 and the input shaft 73a.

[0110] A housing 22a is connected to one of the two triangular plates 22 of the substructure 14 or container, in which the first cylinder 73 and a second rotating body designed as a second cylinder 74 are housed. The first cylinder 73 and the second cylinder 74 are each rotatably connected to the housing 22a. The first cylinder 73 is fixedly mounted in the housing 22a, while an axis 740 of the second cylinder 74 is housed in an elongated hole 220 of the housing 22a, the main axis of which elongated hole 220 points towards the first cylinder 73, so that the distance of the second cylinder 74 from the first cylinder 73 or its axis 730 can be adjusted accordingly. The first cylinder 73 and the second cylinder 74 together form a drive device 75 for the tension element 71, which is wrapped several times around the two cylinders 73, 74.Here, the tension element 71 is not completely wound around one of the cylinders 73, 74, but always alternately at approximately 180 degrees around each of the two cylinders 73, 74.

[0111] The first cylinder 73 has a plurality of circumferential grooves 73b extending perpendicularly to the axis 730 of the first cylinder 73, in which the tension element 71 is guided. The circumferential grooves 73b have a slightly V-shaped contour, which guides the tension element 71 in a slightly clamping manner. Radial webs 73c are arranged between adjacent circumferential grooves 73b, which prevent the tension element 71 from leaving the respective circumferential groove 73b. This can be seen particularly in Fig. 8, that a total of five circumferential grooves 73b are formed on the first cylinder 73.

[0112] The second cylinder 74 comprises four rotatable, disc-shaped cylinder sections 174 that can rotate independently of one another around the axis 740. The cylinder sections 174 are designed like a set of deflection pulleys. The cylinder sections 174 each have a circumferential groove 174b for guiding the tension element 71, which can also be V-shaped, but in this case is designed as a stepped recess between two coil disc regions.

[0113] In order to reliably introduce a force from the motor 72 into the tension element 71, the first cylinder 73 and the second cylinder 74 form a drive device 75 in which the tension element 71 each wraps around a first, uppermost circumferential groove 73b of the cylinder 73 by approximately 180°, then wraps around a first, uppermost cylinder section 174 of the second cylinder 74 in the region of its groove 174b by approximately 180°, and then again around the second, second-uppermost circumferential groove 73b of the cylinder 73 by approximately 180°. This is repeated for all further circumferential grooves 73b and cylinder sections 174 with circumferential grooves 174b until the tension element 71 leaves the fifth, lowermost circumferential groove 73b. As a result, a tensile force is reliably introduced into the tension element 71. At the same time, it is avoided that the tension element 71 becomes jammed as a result of the drive movement around a single cylinder 73, 74.At the same time, it is ensured that the spacing of the tension element 71 on the two cylinders 73, 74 prevents the tension element 71 from locking itself.

[0114] In Fig. Figure 10 schematically shows how the tension element 71 is laid. The tension element 71 is connected to the distal carriage 32' in the area of ​​a clamping arrangement 71a and carries the latter in the direction of arrow 71b to open the tarpaulin structure or in the opposite direction to close the tarpaulin structure. The tension element 71 is placed around a distal deflection pulley 75a, 75a', with the two sections extending from the deflection pulley 75a, 75a' each being deflected around deflection pulleys 75b, 75b', 75c, 75c'.

[0115] The distal deflection roller 75a, 75a' is rotatable about a horizontal axis, so that the pulling element 71 runs essentially parallel to the guide rail 20, as in Fig. 1. The additional deflection pulleys 75b, 75b', 75c, 75c' are each connected about vertical axes to one of the two triangular plates 22. The traction element 71 is guided from the deflection pulley 75c on one side to the deflection pulley 75b' on the other side, so that the same traction element 71 drives the two distal carriages 32'. The traction element 71 is guided by the other proximal deflection pulley 75c to an uppermost circumferential groove 73b of the first cylinder 73 of the drive device 75. From the drive device 75, which has been wrapped several times above, the traction element 71 then reaches the additional deflection pulley 75c'.

[0116] One recognizes in Fig. 8, that a lower end face 73d of the first cylinder 73 has a ring with a plurality of cylindrical holes 73e arranged at a fixed radius around the axis 730 of the first cylinder 73. A support plate 81 is connected by screws 81a to the housing part of the housing 22a enclosing the first cylinder 73. An electromagnetically actuated lifting magnet 80 is arranged on said support plate, the lifting armature of which is coupled to a locking pin 80a, the distal end of which points toward the first cylinder 73. On the side facing the first cylinder 73, the support plate 81 has a plate 81b with a cylindrical bore 81c through which the locking pin 80a can be displaced. The cylindrical bore 81c supports the locking pin 80a against buckling or bending when it is subjected to radial forces.The locking pin 80a is equipped with an external thread at its proximal end, which is screwed into an internal thread of the lifting anchor.

[0117] The locking pin 80a can be advanced against the end face 73d of the first cylinder 73, which forms a rotatable part of the drive 70, so that when the locking pin 80a penetrates into one of the cylindrical holes 73e, the locking pin 80a secures the drive 70 or the at least one pulling element 71 against rotation and thus blocks the distal slide 32'.

[0118] The solenoid 80 enables the locking pin 80a to be actuated between an advanced position and a retracted position, so that the drive 70 can be enabled or disabled depending on the control of the solenoid 80. Energizing the solenoid 80 retracts the locking pin 80a from the advanced position, while a spring element already built into the solenoid 80 urges the locking pin 80a toward the advanced position. If the first cylinder 73 is rotated sufficiently slowly, the locking pin 80a, under the load of the spring element when the solenoid 80 is de-energized, can penetrate into one of the cylindrical holes 73e opposite the locking pin 80a and lock the first cylinder 73. Thus, the solenoid 80 is energized during the actuation of the drive 70. For this purpose, the drive 70 and the lifting magnet 80 are both connected to a control 99 of the drive 70.

[0119] It is particularly important here that the circumference of the cylindrical hole 73e then bears radially against the outer circumference of the locking pin 80a, which projects into the cylindrical hole 73e, whereby the entire load of the convertible top frame 16, due to the connection to the tension element 71 and its frictional and / or clamping force transmission to the first cylinder 73, rests on the locking pin 80a via the cylindrical hole 73e. This load is not insignificant, since in addition to the actual mass of the convertible top frame 16, the spring force stored in the tarpaulin can act in one or the other direction of displacement of the slides 32'. Furthermore, in the case of the substructure 14 being designed as a tipping trough, the force of gravity acting on the convertible top frame can also be added.

[0120] Against this background, due to the radial force acting on the locking pin 80a, it is often not possible to use the lifting magnet 80 to retract the locking pin 80a from the corresponding cylindrical hole 73e against the load of the spring element of the lifting magnet 80.

[0121] For this reason, a control 99 of the drive 70 is designed such that, upon an operator command to move the foremost slides 32' in a specific direction, a short travel path or a short travel pulse in the opposite direction is initially initiated, which, upon appropriate loading of the circumference of the locking pin 80a, leads to its unloading, so that the lifting magnet 80 can move the locking pin 80a out of engagement with the first cylinder 73. If, however, the load is in the opposite direction, the subsequent actual displacement movement of the drive 70 leads to the locking pin 80a being released, with the result that the lifting magnet 80 can then retract the locking pin 80a.

[0122] The method described above for controlling the opening or closing movement of the openable structure 10 or the openable structure 10 is stored, for example, as a program in the controller 99.

[0123] The locking pin 80a is equipped with a ring-shaped pull end 80c protruding from the end of the lifting magnet 80 facing away from the first cylinder 73, which also allows manual unlocking of the locking pin 80a. In this way, the opening of the body 10 can be released even in the event of an electrical malfunction.

[0124] It can be seen that the locking pin 80a positively blocks the rotatable first cylinder 73 and, in particular, prevents the drive 70 from causing the first cylinder 73 to move relative to the tension element 71. Therefore, blocking the first cylinder 73 is the preferred option for simultaneously blocking the tension element 71 and preventing movement in the system of the drive 70 and the deflection rollers 75a, 75b, 75c.

[0125] The lifting magnet 80 is conveniently actuated by applying an electrical voltage and is connected to a drive control system so that the movement of the drive 70 and the displacement work of the lifting magnet 80 can be coordinated. At the same time, both parts are equipped with a signal transmitter that informs the control system whether the locking pin 80a of the lifting magnet 80 is engaged in the first cylinder 73 or not.

[0126] One recognizes in Fig. 4, that the motor 72 is connected to the top of the housing 22a, while the support plate 81 with the lifting magnet 80 is connected to the bottom of the housing 22a.

[0127] In the area of ​​the clamping arrangement 71a, a magnet is also installed, which can be detected by a sensor device for determining the position of the distal slide 32' and thus the degree of opening of the convertible top frame 16.

[0128] Furthermore, the drive 70 has a sensor arrangement 91 designed as a gyroscope, which is located in the area of ​​a control panel 90, which is Fig. 9. The sensor arrangement 91 can also be accommodated elsewhere in the body 10, the substructure 14, or a vehicle transporting it.

[0129] The sensor assembly 91 is connected to the control unit 99 of the drive 70. The sensor assembly 91 can determine the inclination of the superstructure 10 relative to the horizontal. The control unit 99 stores limit values ​​for permissible inclination angles; if exceeded, the drive 70 is deactivated. The control panel 90 is mounted near the drive device 75; however, it is also possible, in addition to or instead of this, to install a control panel 90 in the driver's cab of a vehicle transporting the substructure 14.

[0130] The control panel 90 includes a first button 92a for moving the convertible top frame 16 in the opening direction using the drive 70, and a second button 92b for moving the convertible top frame 16 in the closing direction using the drive 70. Both buttons 92a, 92b are connected to the control 99 of the drive 70. Another button 92c enables the on or off switching of a spotlight illuminating the interior of the substructure 14. Another button 92d enables the on or off switching of a camera monitoring the interior of the substructure 14.

[0131] An indicator 93a on the control panel 90 signals an electrical fault in the lights. Another indicator 93b signals other faults in the lights. Another indicator 93c signals that the permissible tilt angle has been exceeded in the lights. All buttons and indicators are connected to the control unit 99 of the drive 70. The control panel 90 is located near the drive device 75.

[0132] The drive 70 including the motor 72 is connected to the useful output of a 24 volt energy source of the vehicle transporting the substructure 14, so that it is not necessary to move the substructure 14, the superstructure 10 or the Fig. 1, the control unit designated 99, is equipped with its own power source. However, the useful output of a truck's vehicle battery is limited to a certain power consumption, since typical applications such as searchlights and the like do not require significant power consumption. The useful output is usually protected by a 20-ampere fuse.

[0133] To prevent the fuse from blowing, it is advantageous to set a first threshold value for the current consumption of the drive 70, which limits the power consumption of the drive 70 during normal operation. Depending on the design, the first threshold value is approximately 85% to 100% of the protected current and, in this case, the rated current of the motor 72, 10 amps.

[0134] However, certain sections of the travel path of the convertible top frame 16 along the guide rail 20 require the management of work peaks that may not be manageable with the power consumption limited by the first threshold value. This may be the case due to circumstances, for example, when ice or snow covers the tarpaulin, or when the substructure 14 and the superstructure 10 are positioned in such a way that an incline must be mastered, or the weight load is unevenly distributed across the two front carriages 32'. Furthermore, work peaks occur when the opening movement is initiated, since the relatively massive cover bracket 46 of the convertible top frame 16 must be pivoted into a raised position, whereby the pivoting work must be applied by a stop against which a lever of the cover bracket 46 strikes.A further work peak may arise if the tarpaulin folding aid, which is implemented by the two pivoting brackets 36 connected to each other via the pivot angle limiters 38, has to be pushed open. In the present embodiment, the work peak is small, but if the tarpaulin folding aids are arranged in a horizontal position close to the dead center, erecting becomes more energy-intensive.

[0135] To prevent motor 72 from becoming overloaded, a first period during which the power consumption of the drive during normal operation, and thus the first threshold for current consumption, may nevertheless be exceeded in order to cope with peak loads, is provided for a maximum of 3 seconds. Furthermore, a second threshold for the current consumption of the drive of 20 amperes is not exceeded during the first period to prevent the power supply fuse from being triggered. In practice, it is sufficient if the additional power is only provided for a few tenths of a second. It is possible, but not necessary, to select the second threshold for current consumption at approximately 85% of the maximum value, for example, 17 amperes. The fuse for the on-board electrical system is relatively slow-acting, and the temperature development in the area of ​​the on-board electrical system is not very high.

[0136] It is expedient to provide a minimum time interval between two successive first time periods to prevent the first threshold value from being exceeded in too short a sequence for the power consumption of the drive 70. The minimum time interval is selected according to the length of the first time period, i.e., 3 seconds. Therefore, if the controller 99 is to push open the cover bracket 48 and raise the tarpaulin folding aids, the distal carriage 32' moves correspondingly slowly over the entire length of the guide rail 20 until the top frame 16 is completely folded and the corresponding opening of the substructure 14 is released.

[0137] It is possible to set the values ​​for the initial period and the minimum time interval accordingly shorter if the top frame 16 can or should be opened more quickly overall. It is also possible to install a more powerful motor 72 with a higher rated current of, for example, 20 amps, so that the rated power is approximately doubled. For peak workloads, the current consumption during the initial period can then still be increased above 20 amps.

[0138] Alternatively, the expected power consumption of the drive 70 can also be determined by the controller 99 in a calculation operation, whereby the drive speed of the tension element 71 can be adjusted from dynamically determined parameters of the first threshold value and the first period.

[0139] The above design ensures in particular that even if an operator changes the opening direction several times and thus spends a longer period of time in the area of ​​lifting either the cover bracket 46 or the tarpaulin folding aid, the permissible power consumption of the vehicle battery is nevertheless not exceeded.

[0140] At the same time, the power consumption of the drive 70 can be monitored by the controller 99 to determine whether unforeseen obstacles hinder or block the opening and closing of the body 10.

[0141] Furthermore, the controller 99 provides that a power consumption of the drive 70 exceeding the first threshold value is also possible when the drive 70 is stopped in order to ensure in any case that the locking pin 80a engages in the first rotation body.

[0142] The corresponding commands can be entered by a user via the control panel 90. However, it is also possible to enter the operating commands via a Bluetooth hotspot (not shown) connected to an external computer. In the same way, the camera images and other data can be displayed on the computer, which can also be a tablet PC or a smartphone.

[0143] The invention has been described above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which the locking of the distal slides 32' is effected via the locking pin 80a, the first rotational body, and the tension element 71. It is understood that, in addition, a mechanical locking of the top frame 16 to the substructure 14 can also be provided.

[0144] The invention has been explained above using an embodiment in which the opening and closing movement is possible starting from the distal slide 32'. It is understood that in another embodiment, the proximal slide 32 of the convertible top frame can also be coupled to the tension element 71, so that the convertible top frame can also be opened in the other direction or in both directions.

[0145] The invention has been described above using an exemplary embodiment in which the tension element 71 drives the convertible top frame 16 on both distal slides 32', which are connected to each other via the beam 34'. If the convertible top frame is sufficiently stable, the drive can also be provided from only one side, in which case an end carriage of the convertible top frame ensures a uniform transmission of the force to the slides arranged on both sides.

[0146] The invention has been described above with reference to an exemplary embodiment in which the beams 34, 34' are essentially designed as U-shaped brackets. It is understood that instead of the U-shaped brackets 34, 34', elongated bows can also connect the opposite slides 32 to one another, which then no longer extend upwards from the slides. It is also possible for the slides opposite one another with respect to a longitudinal bisector of the tarpaulin structure not to be connected to one another by a stationary beam, but merely by a bracket articulated to the slides, such as the bracket 36. In this case, the articulated connection can, however, comprise folding plates, as are known from sliding roofs for truck bodies, which carry a so-called lifting bow.

[0147] The invention has been described above using an exemplary embodiment in which an operator controls the controller 99 with commands to open and close the convertible top frame. It is understood that, particularly in self-propelled systems, the commands can also be issued automatically or by computer, for example, when a self-propelled commercial vehicle is to be loaded or unloaded.

Claims

[1] Openable structure (10) for a substructure (14), comprising a foldable top frame (16), a cover (12) connectable to the top frame (16), and a drive (70) for folding and / or unfolding the top frame (16), wherein the drive (70) causes at least one at least tensile-resistant tension element (71) to move, wherein the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element (71) can be coupled to a distal slide (32') of the convertible top frame (16) and moves the distal slide (32') forwards and / or backwards depending on an actuating direction of the drive (70), wherein the drive (70) comprises a driven first rotary body, characterized by , that the drive (70) comprises a second rotary body, that the first rotary body and the second rotary body are arranged adjacent to each other and form a drive device (75), that the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element (71) is wound several times around the drive device (75) formed from the first rotation body and the second rotation body, and that the first rotation body and / or the second rotation body have a variable distance from one another for adjusting the length of the at least tensile-stiff tension element (71). [2] Openable structure according to claim 1, characterized by that the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element (71) is wound at least three times around the drive device (75). [3] Openable structure according to claim 2, characterized by that the second rotational body is driven by the at least one tension element (71) which is at least rigid in tension, and that the first rotational body can be set in rotation by a motor (72) of the drive (70). [4] Openable structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the first rotational body is designed as a cylinder (73) and has circumferential grooves (73b) in which the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element (71) is guided. [5] Openable structure according to claim 4, characterized by that radial webs (73c) are arranged between adjacent circumferential grooves (73b), which prevent the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element (71) from leaving the respective circumferential groove (73b). [6] Openable structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the first rotational body and the second rotational body have parallel axes (730; 740). [7] Openable structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a first threshold value is provided for a current consumption of the drive (70), which limits a power consumption of the drive (70) during normal operation, and that a power consumption of the drive (70) exceeding the first threshold value is permitted for the duration of a first period in order to cope with work peaks. [8] Openable structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a spring member is arranged between the first rotational body and the second rotational body, which spring member acts on the second rotational body in a direction away from the first rotational body and thus achieves a tension of the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element (71). [9] Openable structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat at least the second rotational body comprises a plurality of independently rotatable disc-shaped cylinder sections (174), wherein each disc-shaped cylinder section (174) is wrapped by the at least one at least tensile-stiff tension element (71). [10] Openable structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a locking pin (80a) is provided which can be pushed forward against a part of the first rotation body, and that the locking pin (80a) secures the first rotation body against rotation and thus blocks the distal slide (32') even in a non-driven state of the drive (70).

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