Suspension arrangement

Abstract

Suspension arrangement (11) for an axle arrangement (3) with an axle body (9), a wheel rocker arm (10) and an axle bracket (13), wherein the suspension arrangement (11) has a spring element (36) and a spring support (31) with a support arm construction (32) which can be arranged or is arranged between the spring element (36) on the one hand and the axle bracket (13) and the axle body (9) on the other hand, wherein the support arm construction (32) can be connected or is connected at one end region to the spring element (36), and wherein the support arm construction (32) directed towards the axle body (9) can be supported or is supported and can be connected or is connected at its other end region to the axle bracket (13) and to the axle body (9).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a suspension arrangement, in particular an air suspension arrangement, with the features in the preamble of the main claim.

[0002] From DE 198 18 698 A1 a suspension for a rigid vehicle axle with an air spring arrangement together with a spring support is known, in which the air spring bellows is supported at the bottom on the axle rocker arm and at the top on the chassis and its longitudinal beam.

[0003] German patent application DE 10 2016 121 250 A1 discloses an axle arrangement with wheel rocker arms and air spring assemblies, each with a spring support, featuring an upwardly inclined support arm structure in two variants. In one variant, the support arm structure is welded to the axle bracket and to the central web of the chassis longitudinal member. In the other variant, the support arm structure is bolted to the upper end of the axle bracket and, conversely, engages the underside of the longitudinal member with a chamfer and is welded in place.

[0004] DE 20 2008 003 758 U1 discloses an axle arrangement with wheel rocker arms and with an air suspension which is arranged within the chassis and mounted on the axle body.

[0005] In the air spring arrangements of DE 10 2014 012 530 A1 and DE 20 2017 101 992 U1, the upper support arms of the spring supports are each supported and attached to a longitudinal member of the chassis.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to demonstrate an advanced suspension technology.

[0007] The invention solves this problem with the features in the independent claims.

[0008] The claimed suspension technology, i.e. the suspension arrangement and its parts, as well as the claimed axle arrangement and the retrofit method, have various advantages.

[0009] The suspension assembly can include a spring element and a spring support for the spring element. Designing the spring support with a support arm structure directed towards the axle housing, between the spring element and the axle bracket, as well as the axle housing itself, has the advantage that the forces occurring during driving can be better dissipated and supported. The support arm structure, which is connected to the spring element at one end, can be independently supported and connected to both the axle bracket and the axle housing at the other end. A direct connection and fastening of the support arm structure to the chassis, particularly to its longitudinal members, is unnecessary.

[0010] The forces transmitted via the spring element can be more effectively transferred to and supported by the chassis. In particular, overloads and undesirable deformations of the chassis, especially its longitudinal members, can be avoided. This is particularly advantageous for lightweight vehicles with a weight-optimized chassis and relatively thin-walled longitudinal members.

[0011] The spring support can also include a support bracket for the wheel rocker arm, which supports the spring element on the wheel rocker arm. The support bracket can be attached to the wheel rocker arm via an interface. Alternatively, it may already be present on the wheel rocker arm.

[0012] The spring assembly and its components have the advantage of being a lightweight yet mechanically stable construction. Furthermore, they require little space and are easy to build.

[0013] A particular advantage is the support arm design, which can be attached to the axle bracket and the axle body, or is fixed in place during installation. The support arm design can include a support bracket and a preferably plate-shaped or fork-shaped support element. This element can be permanently connected to the axle bracket and the axle body, or be permanently attached during installation. Various design options are available for this.

[0014] The support element, through its independent connection to the axle housing, transmits forces particularly well and reliably. The support element can also be permanently connected to the axle bracket, or be permanently attached in the installed state, for example, by a material bond, especially welding. The permanent connection can be formed by a positive fit or clamping connection, for example, between the fork arms of the support element and the axle bracket, especially its bulging support section. The support element can also be a component of the axle bracket or the support arm assembly. The support arm assembly can include further components, for example, a support element connected to the spring element, especially a support plate.

[0015] Another advantage is the possibility of connecting the support bracket to the preferably plate-shaped support element on one side and to a side wall of the axle box on the other side without welding, in particular by means of a bolted connection. This can be a detachable connection.

[0016] The claimed spring assembly and its components further have the advantage that the suspension assembly can be installed by the manufacturer on an axle assembly or on a vehicle equipped with it, in particular a road vehicle, during the manufacture of the vehicle or its chassis. Furthermore, retrofitting or conversion is possible. For this purpose, the weld-free connections for attaching the support bracket to the axle support and to the preferably plate-shaped support element are particularly advantageous.

[0017] Furthermore, an axle arrangement is advantageous which includes an axle bracket with a support element already integrated or attached to its front and preferably plate-like. This axle arrangement can be pre-equipped for the possible later installation of the claimed suspension arrangement.

[0018] An existing axle assembly of a vehicle may already have a different axle suspension, e.g., a rubber suspension or torsion bar suspension, which may be integrated into the axle housing. Such an existing axle suspension can be supplemented with or replaced by the claimed suspension assembly.

[0019] When retrofitting the claimed suspension arrangement, the existing axle suspension can also be modified and adapted. For this purpose, the claimed suspension arrangement can include a replacement wheel rocker arm and a replacement spring element, e.g., a torsion bar or rubber cord assembly, for converting the axle suspension.

[0020] Furthermore, it is possible to replace an existing coil spring suspension with an air suspension system. This can be done without removing the axle and while retaining the axle housing and axle carrier.

[0021] A further advantage is the possibility of using the spring support for different suspension elements. In the illustrated and particularly advantageous embodiment, the suspension arrangement is designed as an air suspension system and includes a spring element designed as an air spring bellows. In another embodiment, the spring element can be designed as a coil spring or in another way, in which case the suspension arrangement is a coil spring system or the like. The possibility of variation through the formation of identical parts or a kit for the components of the spring support offers technical and economic advantages.

[0022] For the claimed suspension arrangement and its components, an axle arrangement with an axle bracket is particularly advantageous, which has a preferably plate-shaped attachment for mounting to the chassis and an upright, outwardly bulging support element arranged on the outside of the attachment. The suspension arrangement and its components, in particular the spring support and the support bracket, are especially advantageous for such an axle bracket.

[0023] The preferably plate-shaped support element is arranged on the front of the axle bracket or its support section and is positioned at a lateral distance from the vehicle chassis and its longitudinal members. This allows the force to be applied to the axle body at a distance from the chassis. In particular, moments can be optimally supported on the axle body in this way. The axle body itself can be rigidly connected to the axle bracket at several points, especially by welding. The forces and moments introduced further outwards by the support arm structure can thus be absorbed by the stabilized axle body with minimal deformation.

[0024] The axle housing can advantageously be positioned with partial immersion at its lower edge or completely below the chassis and its longitudinal members. In the mounting area of ​​the axle bracket, the vertical webs of the longitudinal members can be essentially solid and can have at least a large portion of their full load-bearing web height. The preferred space-saving inverted T-shape of the axle bracket also allows for mounting in the area on and between any existing openings in the webs of the longitudinal members. These openings can remain open and provide access to internal chassis areas. Alternatively, the axle housing can be received in a recess at the lower edge of the longitudinal member.

[0025] The axle assembly described, with its pre-installed or attached suspension assembly and optionally damping, is a self-contained unit. It can be mounted on a chassis at any suitable location. For this purpose, it is advantageous that the suspension assembly is preferably connected and supported only at the wheel rocker arm, the axle bracket, and the axle housing.

[0026] The axle bracket provides a very rigid axle connection to the chassis, resulting in improved handling. The axle assembly is lightweight and allows for a very light and weight-optimized axle connection to the chassis. This is also possible with chassis featuring very high longitudinal members.

[0027] The axle support offers a load-optimized design and enables a distributed force distribution across the vertical web of the respective longitudinal member. The axle support reinforces the chassis and its longitudinal members. Furthermore, it improves the force transmission into the vehicle body, particularly in a motorhome body. The shape of the axle support is especially advantageous in this regard.

[0028] Another advantage is the axial positional variability of the axle arrangement on the chassis. This allows the different requirements of vehicle and body manufacturers to be met, and the axle arrangement to be mounted at the desired chassis location. The chassis, in particular its longitudinal members, can remain unchanged. The suspension assembly, preferably connected only to the axle bracket, the axle housing, and the wheel rocker arm, can move along with any change in the axle arrangement's position.

[0029] The axle arrangement can vary. It can consist of an axle body spanning the width of the chassis with two end axle brackets and wheel rocker arms. The wheel rocker arms are preferably mounted independently and rotatably on the axle body. Alternatively, the axle arrangement can be a so-called half-axle with a shortened axle body and a single axle bracket and wheel rocker arm.

[0030] The suspension assembly and its components, as well as the axle assembly, can be manufactured and marketed in various designs. The suspension assembly, including its spring support and spring element, can be installed as a complete unit on an axle assembly during original equipment manufacturing (OEM) or retrofitted or modified later in the aforementioned manner. Alternatively, instead of the complete suspension assembly, its components can be supplied individually by different manufacturers. The spring support and its components can be supplied by one manufacturer, and the spring element by another. The support bracket, which can also be manufactured and supplied separately, is also an independent inventive component. This is possible, for example, with an axle assembly whose axle box already incorporates the preferably plate-like support element. In this case, the support bracket can be supplied and installed separately.

[0031] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0032] Furthermore, the following configurations are advantageous, either individually or in combination.

[0033] The support arm assembly can include a support element, in particular a support plate, for receiving and securing the spring element. The support bracket of the support arm assembly can be permanently connected to or attached to the support element, in particular the support plate.

[0034] The preferably plate-shaped support element can have a receptacle for the axle body and can be firmly connected to the axle body, or is firmly connected, in particular by welding. The said plate-shaped support element can also optionally have a further receptacle for an upright and outwardly bulging support part of the axle bracket, which can be firmly connected to the support part, or is firmly connected, in particular by welding.

[0035] The support bracket can have a connection area, in particular a support cheek, for attachment and preferably weld-free fastening to the axle bracket, in particular to a side wall of the axle bracket, in particular its bulging support part.

[0036] The support bracket can be arm-shaped. It can have one or more bracket arms. In a multi-arm design, a bracket arm can have a laterally projecting connection area, in particular a support flange. Another bracket arm can have a connection area, in particular a screw area, for connecting to the preferably plate-shaped support element. The other bracket arm can have a fork-shaped recess at one end of the connection area.

[0037] The axle assembly for vehicles with a chassis, in particular road vehicles, which is already installed with the claimed spring assembly or is pre-equipped for this purpose, can in an independent aspect of the invention comprise an axle body and an axle bracket, wherein the axle bracket has a preferably plate-shaped support means on its front side and at a lateral distance to the chassis, which is provided and designed for a fixed and preferably weld-free connection, in particular screw connection, with a spring support of a suspension assembly, in particular an air suspension assembly.

[0038] The preferably plate-shaped support element can have the aforementioned one or more receptacles for the axle body and, optionally, the bulging support part of the axle bracket, which are firmly connected to the axle body or the support part, in particular by welding. The preferably plate-shaped support element can be integrated into the axle bracket or firmly connected to the axle bracket, in particular by welding.

[0039] In this axle arrangement, the axle bracket can have an attachment component designed for mounting to the chassis, in particular to an upright web of a longitudinal member of the chassis, and the aforementioned upright and outwardly bulging support component arranged on the outside of the attachment component. The upright support component can be positioned directly above the axle body.

[0040] The preferably plate-shaped support means can be arranged on the front side of the upright, preferably column-like support part.

[0041] The support element can have an upright hollow, preferably column-like, support body, which is designed as an essentially U-shaped angled support profile and has an internal stiffening in its hollow interior.

[0042] The mounting component of the axle bracket can have a flat, preferably plate- or frame-like, shape, in particular an inverted T-shaped form. The mounting component and the support component can each have a positive-locking receptacle on their underside with a fastening, in particular a welded connection, for the axle body.

[0043] The support element can have a connection, in particular a connecting bolt, for damping and / or a connection, in particular a connecting bolt, for the preferably plate-shaped support means and the spring support.

[0044] The axle arrangement can include the claimed external suspension arrangement, in particular an air suspension arrangement. It can also preferably include an internal axle suspension.

[0045] A separate aspect of the invention relates to the support bracket for a spring support for a spring element, in particular an air spring bellows, for forming a suspension assembly, in particular an air suspension assembly, on an axle assembly comprising an axle body, a wheel rocker arm, and an axle bracket. The support bracket can have several, in particular two, connection areas for preferably weld-free attachment to the axle bracket and a fork-like recess for an axle body. One of the connection areas can be arranged on the fork-like recess. The connection areas can be designed for a screw connection.

[0046] The support bracket can have a laterally projecting support cheek for attachment and weld-free fastening to a side wall of the axle bracket, in particular its bulging support part.

[0047] The invention is illustrated in the drawings in an exemplary and schematic manner. Specifically, the drawings show: Fig. 1: A schematic side view of a road vehicle with an axle arrangement and an air suspension arrangement in a first variant, Fig. 2: An enlarged side view detail of the air suspension assembly of Fig. 1, Fig. 3: A truncated top view of an air suspension assembly with a vehicle chassis as indicated by the arrow III from Fig. 2, Fig. 4: A perspective view of an axle arrangement with an axle body and two axle brackets pre-equipped for the later installation of a suspension arrangement, Fig. 5: A perspective view of the suspension assembly without shock absorbers, Fig. 6: a perspective view of the arrangement of Fig. 5 with a shock absorber and a reduced representation of the suspension arrangement, Fig. 7 and Fig. 8: Various perspective views of an axle arrangement with a support arm construction of the suspension arrangement, Fig. 9: A perspective view of the support arm construction with a support bracket and a plate-shaped support element, Fig. 10: An enlarged rear perspective view of an axle bracket with a front plate-shaped support, Fig. 11: A partially transparent front view of the arrangement of Fig. 10, Fig. 12: a perspective view of the support bracket without a plate-shaped support element, Fig. 13 to Fig. 17: A second variant of the air suspension arrangement in different views.

[0048] The invention relates to a suspension arrangement ( 11 ), in particular an air suspension arrangement. The invention further relates to components of the suspension arrangement ( 11 ), in particular a spring support ( 31 ) and a support console ( 41 ), each of which has independent inventive significance and is claimed separately. The invention also relates to an axle arrangement ( 3 ) with an already attached claimed suspension arrangement or with a pre-equipment for the subsequent attachment of the claimed suspension arrangement or its independent inventive components.

[0049] Fig. 1 shows a vehicle ( 1 ), which is preferably designed as a road vehicle, in particular as a front-wheel drive vehicle. The vehicle ( 1 ) has a chassis or frame (2 ) which includes several, in particular two parallel longitudinal beams ( 5 ) and an axle arrangement ( 3 ) with wheels ( 4 ) and wheel brakes for one rear axle. The axle arrangement ( 3 ) can be present singly or in multiples, e.g. for a tandem axle. The axle arrangement ( 3 ) is designed, for example, as a trailing axle without its own attached drive for regular driving operation.

[0050] The chassis ( 2 It is preferably designed as a mounting chassis with a trailing axle for a motorized, front-wheel-drive tractor unit. It can be mounted directly to the tractor unit's longitudinal beams or via adapters, possibly with a height offset.

[0051] The chassis ( 2 ) extends in the longitudinal or direction of travel ( 8 It may have other components, e.g., crossbeams, base plates, internal components, or the like. The chassis ( 2 ), in particular the longitudinal beams ( 5They can be made of any suitable material, e.g., metal, especially steel. Alternatively, light metals, especially aluminum alloys, are also possible. Furthermore, non-metallic materials, e.g., plastics, especially sandwich constructions with plastic sheets and foam inserts, as well as composite materials, are possible.

[0052] The longitudinal beams ( 5 They can have an angled cross-sectional shape. They are preferably designed as a single or multiple bent steel profile. A Z-profile is shown as an example in the drawings. Other profile shapes, e.g., L-, U-, or C-profiles, or the like, are also possible.

[0053] The longitudinal beams ( 5 ) have an upright central rib ( 6 ) on, at the top edge of which ( 7 ) and / or lower edge a cross web, e.g. the top chord shown in the drawings, is arranged. The middle webs ( 6They preferably have a flat shape. They may have one or more web openings. The axis arrangement described below ( 3 ) is on the middle walkway ( 6 ) the longitudinal beam ( 5 ) attached.

[0054] The axle arrangement ( 3 ) has an axle body ( 9 ) and an axle bracket ( 13 ) on, with which it attaches to the chassis ( 2 ), especially on the central walkways ( 6 ) the longitudinal beam ( 5 ) is attached. The axle bracket ( 13 ) is present twice and is located at the end of the axle body ( 8 rigidly attached.

[0055] The axle body ( 9 ) is in the installed position at the height of the lower edge of the longitudinal beams ( 5 It can be partially recessed in the edge, e.g., with 30% of its axle tube height. Alternatively, the axle body ( 9 ) completely below the chassis ( 2 ) and the longitudinal beam (5 ) be arranged. The axle bracket ( 13 ) extends over most, preferably over the entire height of the longitudinal beam ( 5 ) and protrudes downwards over the edge of the longitudinal beam ( 5 ) out. The longitudinal beam ( 5 ) or its upright bridge ( 6 ) can essentially have the full beam or web height in the attachment area.

[0056] The axle body ( 9 ) can have a wheel rocker arm at one or both ends ( 10 ) exhibit. The axle body ( 9 ) can be designed in different ways. In the illustrated embodiments, it has an axle tube that extends transversely across the chassis width and extends at its ends over the longitudinal beams ( 5) protrudes. The axle tube, for example, has a straight extension for a so-called trailing arm axle. It has, for example, a circular cross-section. In another embodiment, the axle tube can have a different, e.g., prismatic, cross-sectional geometry. The axle body ( 9 ) can also have an angled shape to form a semi-trailing arm axle. In another variant, the axle arrangement ( 3 ) may be designed as a so-called half-axle or stub axle. The axle body ( 9 ) has a shortened length and extends only across part of the chassis width. A wheel rocker arm is attached to one or both axle tube ends ( 10 ) arranged and pivotable about the pipe axis in or on the axle body ( 9 stored.

[0057] The axle arrangement ( 3 ) also features a suspension arrangement ( 11 ) and possibly damping ( 12 ) on. Fig. 2 to Fig. Figure 12 shows a first variant of the suspension arrangement ( 11 ). In Fig. 13 to Fig. 17 shows a second variant.

[0058] The suspension arrangements shown ( 11 ) are each designed as an air suspension system. They feature a spring element, e.g., designed as an air spring bellows ( 36 ) on. The suspension arrangements ( 11 ) are each external to the axle body ( 9 ) and outside the chassis ( 2 ) arranged.

[0059] The axle arrangement ( 3 ) can be a further, especially internal, axle suspension ( 49 ) exhibit. This is, for example, designed as a torsion bar suspension. Here, in the axle body ( 9 ) or axle tube an internal spring element ( 50 ), e.g. a torsion bar or torsion bar arrangement, arranged and connected at the ends with the edge rocker arms ( 10) connected in a rotationally fixed manner. In a variant as a rubber spring axle, an internal spring element ( 50 ) in the form of compressible rubber cords in the axle body ( 9 ) arranged.

[0060] The damping ( 12 ) can be designed in any suitable manner. In the illustrated embodiments, a shock absorber is provided in each case, which is located between the wheel rocker arm ( 10 ) and the axle bracket ( 13 ) arranged and hinged there.

[0061] The axle bracket ( 13 ) has an attachment ( 14 ) which is used for attachment to the chassis ( 2 ) is formed. It also has an upright and outwardly bulging support part ( 15 ) which is located on the outside of the attachment ( 14 ) is arranged. The support part ( 15 ) is located directly above the axle body ( 9 ) or axle tube. The axle bracket ( 13 ), in particular its attachment ( 14), is for attachment to the aforementioned upright bridge ( 6 ) the longitudinal beam ( 5 ) formed. The bulging of the support part ( 15 ) is perpendicular to the main plane of the longitudinal beam web ( 6 ) directed. The support part ( 15 ) has a front wall ( 20' ) and side walls ( 20 ) with a hole ( 21 ) on. The preferably hollow and housing-like support part ( 15 ) has an internal stiffening ( 25 ). Further variations of the axle arrangement ( 3 ) and the axle bracket ( 13 ) are described below.

[0062] The suspension arrangement ( 11 ) the first variant is in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 shown in the installation situation. Fig. 7 to Fig. 12 show components of the suspension assembly ( 11 ) .

[0063] The suspension arrangement ( 11 ) has a spring element ( 36) and a spring support ( 31 ) on. The spring element ( 36 ) is designed, for example, as an air spring bellows. With the spring support ( 31 ) can the spring element ( 36 ) on the wheel swing arm ( 10 ) as well as on the axle bracket ( 13 ) and on the axle body ( 9 ) be supported.

[0064] The suspension arrangement ( 11 ) may also include a pressure medium supply, in particular a compressor, sensors for detecting the pressure in the spring element ( 36 ), in particular an air spring bellows, as well as a control unit with input and output interfaces. Additionally, a sensor for detecting an initial or zero position of the suspension or chassis height may be present. These components are not shown for clarity.

[0065] The suspension arrangement ( 11 ) can also be used for possible modification and adjustment of the axle suspension ( 49 ) a replacement wheel swing arm ( 51) and a replacement spring element ( 52 ) exhibit. This will be explained below.

[0066] The spring support ( 31 ) has a connection to the axle body ( 9 ) directed support arm construction ( 32 ) on. This is between the spring element ( 36 ) on the one hand and the axle bracket ( 13 ) as well as the axle body ( 9 ) on the other hand, arranged. The support arm construction, which is angled downwards in its installed position ( 32 ) is on the spring element ( 36 ), particularly at its upper end. Secondly, the support arm construction ( 32 ) both at the axle bracket ( 13 ), as well as on the axle body ( 19 ) tied and supported.

[0067] The spring support ( 31 ) can also be in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 support structure shown ( 33 ) between the spring element ( 36 ) and the wheel rocker arm ( 10) exhibit. The supporting structure ( 33 ) does not necessarily have to be a component of the claimed spring support ( 31 ). In another embodiment, not shown, the support structure ( 33 ) or its supporting element ( 34 ) already at the wheel swing arm ( 10 ) as a component thereof and be, for example, molded there.

[0068] The suspension arrangement ( 11 ) is a separate component. It can be attached to the axle arrangement ( 3 ) can be installed as original equipment or as a retrofit or conversion. The support arm construction ( 32 ) is on the axle bracket ( 13 ) and on the axle body ( 9 ) can be attached or is attached there in the installed state. The support bracket shown ( 33 ) is via an interface ( 37 ), in particular a prepared screw connection, on the wheel swing arm ( 10 ) attachable or fixed in the installed state.

[0069] The support arm construction ( 32 ) can also be a support element ( 35 ) for receiving and securing the preferably upper end of the spring element ( 36 ) exhibit. The supporting structure ( 33 ) can in turn be a support element ( 34 ) for receiving and securing the preferably lower end of the spring element ( 36 ) exhibit. The support elements (34, 35) can, for example, be designed as support plates.

[0070] The support arm construction ( 32 ) can also be a support console ( 41 ). Furthermore, the support arm construction ( 32 ) a preferably plate-shaped support means ( 38 ) exhibit. The support material ( 38 ) can be used as an alternative to the axle bracket ( 13 ) belong and are already present there, e.g. through pre-installation. Fig. Figure 4 shows such a pre-equipped axle arrangement ( 3 In another embodiment, the support means (38 ) have a different shape that deviates from the preferred plate shape.

[0071] The support material ( 38 ) is on the front of the axle bracket ( 13 ) arranged. It is preferably located on the front side of the upright, preferably column-like support part ( 15 ). The support material ( 38 ) is with the axle bracket ( 13 ) and with the axle body ( 9 ) permanently connectable or permanently connected in the installed position, e.g. by welded joints ( 40 ) .

[0072] The support material ( 38 ) shows a recording ( 39 ) for the axle body ( 9 ) and is there with the axle body ( 9 ) firmly connectable or firmly connected, in particular welded. The preferably positive-locking mounting ( 39 ) is related to the geometry, in particular the outer contour, of the axle body ( 9 ) adapted. It surrounds at least part of the axle body ( 9). In the embodiment shown, the recording ( 39 ) as a circumferentially closed receiving opening, in particular as a circular opening, in the support means ( 38 ) trained. Alternatively, a different design is possible, e.g. a fork-shaped recess.

[0073] The support material ( 38 ) can be located at the front of the axle bracket ( 13 ), in particular its supporting means ( 15 ), can be arranged or attached in any suitable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, according to Fig. 11 the front wall ( 20' ) is recessed in the lower area. The support ( 38 ) lies with its back side flat against the exposed edges of the side walls ( 20 ) and is connected here by welds ( 40 ) or attached in some other way. Fig. 9, Fig. 10 and Fig. Figure 11 shows this arrangement. The support ( 38 ) can be attached to the front wall with its upper edge (20' ) connect flush and can also be attached here in a suitable manner, in particular welded. This upper attachment area of ​​the support ( 38 ) is narrower than the lower area with the recording ( 39 ) for the axle body ( 9 ).

[0074] The preferably plate-shaped support element ( 38 ) is in the illustrated embodiment with the axle bracket ( 13 ) firmly connected, especially welded. Alternatively, it can be installed in the axle bracket ( 13 ) be integrated, e.g. in the form of molded walls or flanges.

[0075] The support console ( 41 ) is connected to the support element ( 35 ), in particular the support plate, can be firmly connected or permanently attached. This can be done, for example, by welding.

[0076] The support console ( 41 ) is, on the other hand, with the support material ( 38) firmly and preferably weld-free connectable or joined. The connection may be detachable. In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, it is a screw connection ( 42 ) trained. The support console ( 41 ) is also connected to the axle bracket ( 13 ), in particular with its side wall ( 20 ), firmly and preferably weld-free bondable or connected. The connection ( 43 ) is preferably detachable and can in particular be designed as a screw connection. The connections ( 42 , 43 ) enable secure support and fastening. Through the connections ( 42 , 43 ) the support bracket can subsequently be fitted with the preferably plate-shaped support element ( 38 ) and the axle bracket ( 13 It can be connected and attached. It can also be replaced if necessary.

[0077] The support console ( 41 ) has a connection area ( 45) on, which is for installation and preferably weld-free attachment to the axle bracket ( 13 ), especially on its side wall ( 20 ), is trained. The connection area ( 45 ) can, for example, be designed as a support cheek. The support cheek can be applied flat to the side wall ( 20 ) applied and secured by means of the screw connection ( 43 ) and the perforation ( 21 ) be attached.

[0078] The support console ( 41 ) points to the creation of the connection ( 42 ), in particular screw connection, a connection area ( 48 ) on, which is located on the preferably flat outer side of the support ( 38 ) lie flat and are connected to the screw connection ( 42 ) can be fixed. The connection ( 42 ) and the connection area ( 48 ) are preferably located in an area around the axle body ( 9 ) or the recording ( 39 ).

[0079] The support console ( 41) can be designed in any suitable way. In the illustrated embodiment, it consists of two console arms ( 46 , 47 ). The console arms ( 46 , 47 ) are arranged parallel and connected to each other transversely. At the upper end, both console arms ( 46 , 47 ) with the support element ( 35 ) connected, in particular welded. One console arm ( 46 ) shows the laterally protruding connection area ( 45 ), especially the support cheek. The console arm ( 46 ) is shortened, with one rear end being bent over in a flange-like manner and the supporting cheek ( 45 ) forms. On the supporting cheek ( 45 ) can also include a slot for receiving and supporting an end area of ​​the support element ( 35 ) to be available.

[0080] The other console arm ( 47) has a downwardly angled shape, with the connection area at its rear and bottom end ( 48 ) for the connection ( 42 ), in particular a screw connection, is arranged. At this end, the console arm ( 47 ) also a fork-shaped recess ( 44 ) on. This can be the outer end of the axle body ( 9 ) grasp the connection points of the connection ( 42 ), especially screw connections, can be arc-shaped at the edge of the recess ( 44 ) be arranged.

[0081] The console arm ( 47 ) can also have a through-opening at this end area for a connection explained below ( 27 ) and its screw bolt. This can be located centrally above the axle body ( 9 ) be arranged. Fig. Figure 12 shows this design of the support console ( 41 In another version, the support bracket ( 41) have a different and, for example, a case-like shape.

[0082] The following describes the preferred design of the axle arrangement ( 3 ) explained.

[0083] The attachment ( 14 ) has a flat shape and is designed for flat installation on the upright pier ( 6 ) formed. It preferably has a plate- or frame-like shape. The contact areas of the bridge ( 6 ) and attachment ( 14 ) are adapted to each other. They are preferably flat and can alternatively be profiled.

[0084] The support part ( 15 ) has a cubic shape. It is preferably centric and located directly above the axle body ( 9 ) arranged and has an upright, in particular mainly vertical, extension. The housing-like support part ( 15 ) is preferably hollow with a free interior space ( 24 ) formed. In a top view, the axle bracket ( 13) an omega shape.

[0085] Inside ( 24 ) is the internal stiffening ( 25 ) for the support part ( 15 ) arranged. It is arranged according to the transparent representations of Fig. 4, Fig. 6 and Fig. 11 of several, e.g. two, stiffening plates arranged horizontally and spaced apart above each other ( 25' ) formed, which with the supporting part ( 15 ) are firmly connected, e.g. welded. The stiffening plates ( 25' ) can be connected to each other by one or more upright stiffening ribs ( 25" ) be connected. Such a stiffening bridge ( 25" ) can be, for example, on the inside of the spring assembly ( 11 ) facing side wall ( 20 ) be arranged. It can be the side wall ( 20 ) stiffen.

[0086] The axle bracket ( 13 ) preferably consists of metal, in particular steel. It can be made in one piece and integrally joined fitting parts (14 , 15 ). It can be designed, for example, as a sheet metal part with multiple bends, or as a casting or forging. In the illustrated embodiments, the axle bracket ( 13 ) is designed in multiple parts. The support part ( 15 ) on the outside of the flat attachment ( 14 ) arranged, in particular placed on and fastened, e.g. with welded connections ( 23 ).

[0087] The attachment ( 14 ) and the support part ( 15 ) each have a form-fitting recess on the underside ( 17 , 22 ) with a fastening ( 23 ), in particular a welded joint, for the axle body ( 9 ), in particular the axle tube. Due to the outwardly projecting support part ( 15 This results in a large axial support width on the axle tube, which provides high stiffness.

[0088] The recording ( 17 ) on the attachment ( 14) is preferably used as a through-opening for the axle body ( 9 ) or the axle tube. Alternatively, it can be designed as a shell-shaped receiver. It is located at the lower end of the attachment ( 14 The preferably form-fitting connection ( 17 ) is related to the geometry of the axle body ( 9 ) or axle tube adapted.

[0089] The recording ( 22 ) on the support part ( 15 ) can be seen from the lower edges of the side walls ( 20 ) are formed on the surface of the axle body ( 9 ) or axle tube with axial alignment and are attached there, e.g. with a weld ( 23 ). The axial fastening ( 23 ), especially the weld seam, thereby comes into the area of ​​the pipe's central axis or the neutral axis, which is particularly advantageous for the introduction of forces and moments.

[0090] The recording ( 22) can also be used as a cutout at the lower edge of a non-recessed front wall ( 20' ) be designed to fit the pipe geometry and be, for example, circular arc-shaped. The curved cutout can also be on the axle body ( 9 ) be welded on. With a recessed front wall ( 20' ) this part of the recording is omitted and replaced by the recording ( 39 ) on the supporting body ( 38 ) replaced.

[0091] The support part ( 15 ) extends from the axle body ( 9 ) or axle tube ( 9 ) starting upwards to the upper end of the attachment ( 14 It can be flush with the surface or protrude slightly. The support part ( 15 ) is narrower in the front view than the attachment ( 14 ) and preferably has a slim, upright shape.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the support part ( 15) a hollow and preferably column-like supporting body ( 19 ) with the aforementioned interior ( 24 ). The supporting body ( 19 ) can be designed in different ways. In the variants shown, the supporting body ( 19 ) designed as an essentially U-shaped support profile, which rests on the flat attachment part at its free longitudinal edges ( 14 ) attached and thus firmly connected, in particular welded ( 23 ). The longitudinal edges are located at the free ends of the side webs of the U-shape. The side webs and the central web of the U-shape are preferably flat. The preferred U-shape is formed by bending a sheet metal part. It is preferably along the entire length of the support part ( 15 ) available.

[0093] The support part ( 15 ) or the supporting body ( 19) can have a straight shape that remains constant along its length or height. In the illustrated and preferred embodiments, it has a downward slope towards the axle body ( 9 ) expanding form, e.g. in the manner of a prismatic cone or truncated pyramid. The aforementioned recording ( 22 ) is located at the lower edge of the support body ( 19 ).

[0094] The support part ( 15 ) or the supporting body ( 19 ) can have one or more openings on one or more sides of the casing. These can serve various purposes, e.g., weight reduction and the routing of cables to the vehicle wheel ( 4 ) and especially to the wheel brakes. One or more front-facing openings can also be used to accommodate one or more connections ( 26 , 27 ) for a component of the axis arrangement ( 3 ), e.g. for a shock absorber ( 12) and / or the preferably plate-like support material ( 38 ), serve.

[0095] The upper connection ( 26 ) can be formed by a connecting bolt and a cavity ( 24 ) attached support sleeve. The connecting bolt can be inserted into an upper, e.g. circular, opening in the casing and secured. It can also be connected to the flat attachment part ( 14 ) and / or the upright bridge ( 6 ) of the longitudinal beam ( 5 ) are connected. On its outward side over the supporting body ( 19 ) and the bolt end protruding from its central web can be one end or eye of the shock absorber ( 12 ) are stored. The connecting bolt ( 26 ) can be designed as a screw bolt.

[0096] The lower connection ( 27 ) can be used for support and additional fixation of the support device ( 38 ) serve, especially when the front wall is recessed ( 20'It can also consist of a connecting bolt, especially a screw bolt, and one in the cavity ( 24 ) attached support sleeve formed and, if necessary, attached to the component ( 14 ) and / or at the jetty ( 6 ) can be attached. With the lower connection ( 27 ) can also be used for the support console ( 41 ), especially the console arm ( 47 ) on the axle bracket ( 13 ), in particular at its bulging support element ( 15 ), should be attached without welding and preferably in a detachable manner.

[0097] The other end or eye of the shock absorber ( 12 ) can be based, for example, on an approach ( 28 ) of the wheel rocker arm ( 10 ) be stored. Alternatively or additionally, another connection point ( 29 ) on the wheel swing arm ( 10 ) be present. The approach ( 28 ) can be located, for example, at the rear end of the wheel swing arm ( 10 ) or at the connection point to the axle body ( 9) are located. The next interchange ( 29 ) can according to Fig. 6 on the inside and in the middle area of ​​the wheel rocker arm ( 10 ) was ordered.

[0098] The attachment ( 14 ), in particular its supporting structure ( 16 ), can be in Fig. The 10 shown inverted T-shape. The supporting body ( 16 ) has an upright central web and a lower, laterally projecting cross web. The central web is significantly narrower than the cross web, which preferably projects on both sides. The cross web may have a downward-pointing bulge in the middle area at its lower edge. This area can extend downwards over the lower edge of the chassis when the unit is mounted ( 2 ) or longitudinal beam ( 5 ) protrude. He can record ( 17 ) for the axle body ( 8 exhibit.

[0099] The supporting body ( 16) preferably extends over the entire height of the upright longitudinal beam web ( 6 ) and extends to the top chord ( 7 The supporting body preferably extends as far as this point ( 19 ). The attachment ( 14 ), in particular the supporting body ( 16 ) protrudes downwards beyond the lower edge of the longitudinal beam ( 5 ) out and points to the aforementioned recording there ( 17 ). The crossbar extends perpendicular to the central web and projects beyond it on one or both sides. The central web is wider than the supporting body ( 19 ) and is connected to it, in particular welded. The supporting body ( 16 ), in particular the central web, may also have one or more openings.

[0100] The axle bracket ( 13 ) features weld-free fasteners ( 18 ) for mounting on the chassis ( 2 ) on. Preferably the fastening means ( 18) are designed as rivet connections or screw connections. They are preferably located on the flat attachment part that lies flush against the upright web ( 14 ). The attachment ( 14 ) has suitable mounting openings for this purpose.

[0101] The fasteners ( 18 ) or fastening openings can be present in multiple rows and in greater numbers on the crossbar. They are located laterally, especially on both sides of the support part ( 15 ) arranged. They are located in the overlap area between the cross member and the longitudinal beam ( 6 ). The crossbar ends just above the fastening elements ( 18 ) or fastening openings. There are also several fastening devices on the central web ( 18 ) to the flange-like over the supporting body ( 19 ) protruding area. For the fasteners ( 18 ) can be attached to the upright bridge ( 6 ) of the longitudinal beam ( 5) prepared or, if necessary, added through-openings exist. In this fastening area, the bridge ( 6 ) otherwise an essentially solid and cutout-free as well as opening-free form.

[0102] Fig. 13 to Fig. Figure 17 illustrates a second variant of the suspension arrangement ( 11 The second variant largely corresponds to the first variant of Fig. 2 to Fig. 12 agree. In the second variant, the spring support ( 31 ) modified. This concerns the support arm construction ( 32 ), the supporting structure ( 33 ) and the support element ( 38 ).

[0103] How Fig. 15 to Fig. 17 illustrates that the support material ( 38 ) in the second variant, it takes the form of a fork or a bracket. It is essentially U-shaped and open at the top. The supporting element ( 38) is formed, for example, from a bent strip of sheet metal or from a cut-out piece of sheet metal.

[0104] The support material ( 38 ) shows the shape-adapted inlet in the lower area ( 39 ) for the axle body. This is designed, for example, as an upwardly open half-shell. The support element ( 38 ) also has a recording in the upper area ( 39' ) for the axle bracket ( 13 ), especially for its support part ( 15 ), on. The recording ( 39' ) follows the recording ( 39 ) on. The recording ( 39' ) is formed by the inner walls of the fork or stirrup arms of the support device ( 38 ) formed, which extend along at least the front area of ​​the side walls ( 20 ) of the bulging support ( 15 ) of the axle bracket ( 13 ) extend in a form-fitting manner and be able to rest here, possibly under preload. The support element ( 38) encompasses the lower area of ​​the axle body ( 9 ) and the lower end area of ​​the support part ( 15 ).

[0105] The support material ( 38 ) can be done similarly to the first variant with the axle body ( 9 ) and the axle bracket ( 13 ) be permanently connectable or permanently connected in the installed state. The permanent connection can be made, for example, by welding or in another suitable way. Welds can be made between the mounting ( 39 ) and the axle body ( 9 ). Welds can also be located between the mount ( 39' ), in particular the fork or bracket arms, and the axle bracket ( 13 ), in particular its supporting part ( 15 ). be arranged.

[0106] A fixed connection between the support material ( 38 ) and the axle bracket ( 13 ) can alternatively or additionally be achieved through the aforementioned positive locking of the bracket or fork arms on the support part ( 15) are produced. Welds can be omitted at this point. The positive fit can also be a clamping fit. The positive fit is achieved through the firm connection, especially a welded connection, between the receiving ( 39 ) and the axle body ( 9 ) supported and secured.

[0107] The support arm construction ( 32 ) has a support console, as in the first variant ( 41 ) with a support element ( 35 ) on. The support console ( 41 ) is also the case with the support material in the second variant ( 38 ) firmly and preferably without welding, or connected in the installed state. The connection ( 42 ) can be detachable. It is, for example, designed as a screw connection. The connection ( 42 ) has, for example, two connection points and is located at the support ( 38 ) are positioned at the free end areas of the fork or stirrup arms. This also supports and secures the aforementioned positive fit.

[0108] The support console ( 41 ) is located in the installed position against the front wall ( 20' ) of the support element ( 15 ) plan. The support console ( 41 ) can be accessed via the connection ( 27 ), in particular a screw connection, with the support element ( 15 ) should be weld-free and preferably detachable.

[0109] The support console ( 41 ) is also designed with two arms in the second variant, with one console arm ( 46 ) a connection area ( 45 ), in particular a laterally bent support cheek, for support and connection with a side wall ( 20 ) of the axle bracket ( 13 ), in particular its bulging support element ( 15 ), exhibits. Here, a weld-free and preferably detachable connection ( 43 ), in particular a screw connection, must be present.

[0110] The second console arm ( 47) is with the support material ( 38 ) via a weld-free and preferably detachable connection ( 42 ), in particular a screw connection. The console arm ( 47 ) is located on the front wall ( 20' ) of the support element ( 15 ) and can be accessed via the connection ( 27 ) in the manner described above with the support element ( 15 ) connectable or connected. The console arm ( 47 ) has a curved recess on the underside ( 44 ) and the connection area ( 48 ), especially the screw area.

[0111] The support structure ( 33 The support structure ( 33 ) is via a similarly modified interface ( 37 ) with the underside of the wheel swing arm ( 10 ) preferably detachably connectable or connected. The interface ( 37) has a mounting surface with a series of, for example, three support and screw bolts.

[0112] The axle arrangement ( 3 ) and the suspension arrangement ( 11 The second variant's features can otherwise be identical to those of the first variant described above. The axle bracket ( 13 ) can essentially have the same design as in the first variant. The recess on the front wall ( 20' ) can be omitted in the second variant. The training with attachment ( 14 ) and support part ( 15 ) as well as the internal stiffening ( 25 ) can be the same as in the first variant. The damping connection ( 12 ) with the connections ( 26 , 29 ) can match the first variant.

[0113] The axle arrangement ( 3 ) and the spring arrangement ( 11 ) can be used in both variants during the initial equipment of the vehicle ( 1 ) are installed. The axle arrangement (3 ) can an axle suspension ( 49 ) exhibit which already refer to the spring arrangement ( 11 ) and its spring element ( 36 ) is agreed upon.

[0114] The vehicle ( 1 ) can alternatively be an existing axle arrangement ( 3 ) exhibit, to which the spring assembly ( 11 ) is installed and mounted during a retrofit. The existing axle arrangement ( 3 ) can be a pre-equipped axle arrangement in both variants, which already includes a support device ( 38 ) which is connected to the axle body ( 9 ) and the axle bracket ( 13 ), in particular its bulging support part ( 15 ), firmly connected, in particular welded. The existing and possibly pre-equipped axle arrangement ( 3 ) can also be the aforementioned axle suspension ( 49 exhibit.

[0115] When retrofitting a spring assembly ( 11 ) to an existing axle arrangement ( 3) can the suspension arrangement ( 11 ), in particular air suspension arrangement, with the spring element ( 36 ) mounted in the aforementioned manner and attached to the axle bracket ( 13 ) as well as on the axle body ( 9 ) are tied and preferably attached without welding and in a detachable manner.

[0116] When retrofitting, an existing axle suspension can also be used ( 49 ) modified and adapted. The axle suspension ( 49 ) can affect the spring action of the spring arrangement ( 11 ), in particular the spring element ( 36 ), be adjusted. The axle suspension ( 49 ) can, for example, have a softer spring characteristic.

[0117] The modification can be achieved by replacing the existing spring element ( 50 ) which, for example, involves replacing the spring element ( 52 ) is changed. Furthermore, the existing wheel rocker arm ( 10 ) against a replacement wheel swing arm ( 51) can be replaced. This can already be done with the replacement spring element ( 52 ), e.g., a torsion bar assembly. The outer tube or axle body ( 9 ) can be retained. The replacement wheel rocker arm ( 51 ) and the replacement spring element ( 52 ) can be part of the spring assembly to be retrofitted ( 11 They may be present individually or in multiples, depending on the axle design.

[0118] The replacement wheel swing arm ( 51 ) can be used for mounting the spring support ( 31 ) be prepared and can use the interface ( 37 ). This is designed in a particularly advantageous way in the second variant and can, for example, be located on the underside of the wheel swing arm ( 10 , 51 ) to be available.

[0119] Various modifications of the illustrated embodiments are possible. In particular, the features of the embodiments and the mentioned variants can be combined and, if necessary, exchanged as desired.

[0120] The suspension arrangement ( 11 ) and the spring element ( 36 ) can alternatively be used as a coil spring arrangement ( 11 ) be designed as a coil spring. The same spring support can be used for this purpose ( 31 ) as for the air suspension arrangement. Alternatively, the spring support shown ( 31 ) will be rebuilt. Reference symbol list 1 vehicle, road vehicle 2 Chassis 3 axle arrangement 4-wheeler 5 longitudinal beams 6. Web, longitudinal beam web 7 Top edge, top chord 8 Longitudinal direction, direction of travel 9 axle body, axle tube 10 wheel swing levers 11 Suspension arrangement, air suspension arrangement 12 Damping, shock absorbers 13 Axle bracket, mounting fitting 14 Fitting part, attachment part 15 Fitting part, support part 16 Supporting body, support plate 17. Intake, passageway 18 Fasteners, rivet connections 19 Support body, support profile 20 side wall 20' front wall 21 holes 22nd shot, excerpt 23 Fastening, weld seam 24 Interior 25 Internal stiffening 25' stiffening plate lying down 25" stiffening bridge upright 26 Connection, connection bolt 27 Connection, connection bolt 28. Attachment to the wheel swing arm 29 Interchange 30 wheel mount 31 Spring support 32 Support arm construction 33 Support attachment, lever attachment 34 Support element, support plate 35 Support element, support plate 36 Spring element, air spring bellows 37 Interface 38 Supporting device, support plate 39 Axle body mounting 39' Mounting support part 40 weld seam 41 Support console 42 Connection, screw connection 43 Connection, screw connection 44 Recess, fork 45 Connection area, support cheek 46 console arm 47 console arm 48 Connection area, screw area 49 Axle suspension 50 spring element, torsion bar arrangement 51 Replacement wheel swing arms 52 Replacement spring element, torsion bar arrangement QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] 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

[0000] DE 19818698 A1

[0002] DE 102016121250 A1

[0003] DE 202008003758 U1

[0004] DE 102014012530 A1

[0005] DE 202017101992 U1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Suspension arrangement, in particular air suspension arrangement, for an axle arrangement (3) with an axle body (9), a wheel rocker arm (10) and an axle bracket (13), wherein the suspension arrangement (11) comprises a spring element (36) and a spring support (31) with a support arm construction (32) which can be arranged or is arranged between the spring element (36) on the one hand and the axle bracket (13) and the axle body (9) on the other hand, wherein the support arm construction (32) can be connected or is connected at one end region to the spring element (36), and wherein the support arm construction (32) directed towards the axle body (9) can be supported or is supported and can be connected or is connected at its other end region to the axle bracket (13) and to the axle body (9). [2] Suspension arrangement according to claim 1, characterized by , that the spring support (31) has a support attachment (33) between the spring element (36) and the wheel rocker arm (10). [3] Suspension arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the support arm construction (32) can be attached to the axle bracket (13) and to the axle body (9) or is attached. [4] Suspension arrangement according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized by that the support arm structure (32) has a support bracket (41). [5] Suspension arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the support bracket (41) has several, in particular two, connection areas (45,48) for preferably weld-free attachment to the axle block (13) and a fork-like recess (44) for an axle body (9). [6] Suspension arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the support arm construction (32) or the axle block (13) has a preferably plate-shaped support means (38). [7] Suspension arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the preferably plate-shaped support means (38) can be firmly connected to the axle bracket (13) and the axle body (9) or is connected to it. [8] Suspension arrangement according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by that the preferably plate-shaped support means (38) has a receptacle (39) for the axle body (9) and is firmly connectable or firmly connected to the axle body (9), in particular welded. [9] Suspension arrangement according to claim 6, 7 or 8, characterized by , that the preferably plate-shaped support means (38) has a receptacle (39') for an upright and outwardly bulging support part (15) of the axle bracket (13), which can be firmly connected to the support part (15) or is firmly connected, in particular by positive locking, welding or the like. [10] Suspension arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the support bracket (41) can be connected to the preferably plate-shaped support means (38) firmly and preferably without welding, in particular by a screw connection (42), or is connected. [11] Suspension arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the support bracket (41) can be connected to the axle block (13), in particular to a side wall (20) of the axle block (13), firmly and preferably without welding, in particular by a screw connection (43), or is connected. [12] Suspension arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the suspension arrangement (11) is designed as an air suspension arrangement and the spring element (36) is designed as an air spring bellows. [13] Suspension arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the suspension arrangement (11) includes an exchange wheel rocker arm (51) and an exchange spring element (52) for an axle suspension (49) to be converted. [14] Axle arrangement for vehicles (1), in particular road vehicles, with a chassis (2), wherein the axle arrangement (3) comprises an axle body (9), an axle bracket (13) and a wheel rocker arm (10) as well as a suspension arrangement (11) with a spring element (36) and a spring support (31), characterized by , that the suspension arrangement (11) is designed according to at least one of claims 1 to 13. [15] Axle arrangement according to claim 14, characterized by that the axle arrangement (3) has a further, preferably internal, axle suspension (49), in particular a rubber suspension and / or a torsion bar suspension. [16] Axle arrangement for vehicles (1), in particular road vehicles, with a chassis (2), wherein the axle arrangement (3) comprises an axle body (9), a wheel rocker arm (10) and an axle support (13), wherein the axle support (13) has an attachment part (14) designed for fastening to the chassis (2), in particular to an upright web (6) of a longitudinal member (5) of the chassis (2), and an upright and outwardly bulging support part (15) arranged on the outside of the attachment part (14), and wherein the axle support (13) has on its front side and at a lateral distance to the chassis (2) a preferably plate-shaped support means (38) which is provided and designed for a fixed and preferably weld-free connection (42), in particular screw connection, with a spring support (31) of a suspension arrangement (11), in particular an air suspension arrangement, according to one of claims 1 to 13. [17] Spring support for a spring element (36), in particular an air spring bellows, for forming a suspension arrangement (11), in particular an air suspension arrangement, on an axle arrangement (3) with an axle body (9) and an axle bracket (13), wherein the spring support (31) has a support arm construction (32) which can be arranged or is arranged between the spring element (36) on the one hand and the axle bracket (13) and the axle body (9) on the other hand, wherein the support arm construction (32) can be connected or is connected at one end region to the spring element (36), characterized by , that the support arm construction (32) directed towards the axle body (9) can be supported or braced at its other end area on the axle bracket (13) and on the axle body (9) and can be tied or fastened. [18] Spring support according to claim 17, characterized by , that the spring support (31) has a support attachment (33) between the spring element (36) and the wheel rocker arm (10). [19] Spring support according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by , that the support arm construction (32) has a support bracket (41) which has several, in particular two, connection areas (45,48) for preferably weld-free attachment to the axle block (13) and a fork-like recess (44) for an axle body (9). [20] Method for retrofitting a suspension arrangement (11), in particular an air suspension arrangement, to a vehicle (1), in particular a road vehicle, which has a chassis (2) and an axle arrangement (3) with an axle body (9), with an axle suspension (49) and its spring element (50), with a wheel rocker arm (10) and with an axle bracket (13), characterized by, that a suspension arrangement (11), in particular an air suspension arrangement, is mounted according to one of claims 1 to 13 and the existing axle suspension (49) is converted, wherein the existing wheel rocker arm (10) and the spring element (50) are replaced with a replacement wheel rocker arm (51) and a replacement spring element (52).

Images