cargo bike

Abstract

Cargo bicycle with multiple wheels (3, 4, 5), two of which are arranged at a distance from each other in a transverse direction (y) of the vehicle and form a wheel pair, a tilting device (7) by means of which the wheels (3, 4) of the wheel pair can be tilted relative to a vertical direction (9) perpendicular to a wheel contact plane (8), which encloses an angle of inclination (α) characterizing the inclination of the wheels (3, 4) of the wheel pair with a wheel plane (34), and an adjustable tilt limiting device (10) by means of which the tilt angle (α) can be limited to a maximum permissible tilt angle, characterized by a speed sensor (35) by means of which the speed (v) of the cargo bicycle (1) can be detected, and an adjustment drive (36) by means of which the tilt limiting device (10) can be adjusted such that the maximum permissible tilt angle is variable,and a control unit (37) connected to the speed sensor (35) and the adjustment drive (36), by means of which the adjustment drive (36) can be controlled as a function of the speed (v) in such a way that the maximum permissible tilt angle can be reduced as the speed (v) of the cargo bike (1) decreases.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a cargo bicycle with several wheels, two of which are arranged at a distance from each other in a transverse direction of the vehicle and form a pair of wheels, a tilting device by means of which the wheels of the pair of wheels can be tilted relative to an upward direction perpendicular to a wheel contact plane, which includes an angle of inclination characterizing the inclination of the wheels of the pair of wheels with a wheel plane of at least one or each of the wheels of the pair of wheels, and an adjustable tilt limiting device by means of which the angle of inclination can be limited to a maximum permissible angle of inclination, preferably mechanically.

[0002] Cargo bikes are known from the prior art, where the tilting capability of the wheels is referred to as a tilting mechanism, which facilitates cornering for the rider. A disadvantage is that, at slow speeds or when stationary, the tilting capability of the wheels demands considerable skill from the rider to prevent unintentional tilting. In particular, as the speed decreases, the rider's skill required to control the cargo bike increases.

[0003] Several approaches exist to solve this problem. One approach involves a kickstand that can be deployed when the cargo bike is stationary, thus preventing the wheels of the wheel pair from tilting. However, this only helps when stationary and not when moving slowly. A second approach involves locking the tilting mechanism of the wheels of the wheel pair, for example, via a lever. This allows the tilting mechanism to be locked when moving slowly and when stationary. A disadvantage, however, is that the tilting mechanism is either fully activated or fully locked when moving slowly. When the tilting mechanism is fully activated, the aforementioned problem arises. When the tilting mechanism is fully locked, it cannot be used at low speeds, which impairs the cornering performance of the cargo bike.

[0004] DE 10 2013 223 981 A1, CH 657 585 A5, DE 10 2005 055 687 A1, US 2008 / 0 197 597 A1 and US 2016 / 0 251 051 A1 each disclose vehicles with a tilting technology and a tilt limiter that is independent of the vehicle speed.

[0005] Based on this, the invention aims to enable the use of a tilting technique even at slow speeds, particularly without requiring a high level of skill from the driver.

[0006] This problem is solved by a cargo bike according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments of this cargo bike are given in the dependent claims and in the following description.

[0007] The cargo bike described above, comprising several wheels, two of which are arranged at a distance from each other in a transverse direction and form a wheel pair, a tilting device by means of which the wheels of the wheel pair can be tilted relative to an upward direction perpendicular to a wheel contact plane, which includes an angle of inclination characterizing the inclination of the wheels of the wheel pair with a wheel plane of at least one or each of the wheels of the wheel pair, and an adjustable tilt limiting device by means of which the tilt angle can be limited to a maximum permissible tilt angle, preferably mechanically, is further developed in particular by a speed sensor by means of which the speed of the cargo bike can be detected, an adjustment drive by means of which the tilt limiting device can be adjusted such that the maximum permissible tilt angle,in particular continuously variable, and a control unit connected to the speed sensor and the adjustment drive, by means of which the adjustment drive can be controlled as a function of the speed in such a way that the maximum permissible inclination angle, in particular with decreasing speed of the cargo bike, is preferably automatically, preferably until the cargo bike comes to a standstill, in particular continuously, advantageously to zero or approximately zero, variable and / or reducible.

[0008] Since the maximum permissible tilt angle, particularly as the cargo bike's speed decreases, is preferably automatically variable and / or reducible, preferably until the cargo bike comes to a standstill, and particularly continuously, advantageously to zero or nearly zero, it is possible to use the tilting mechanism safely even at low speeds. Great skill on the part of the rider is not required. In particular, the tilting capability of the wheels of the wheel pair is automatically limited at low speeds and decreases as the speed decreases.

[0009] Preferably, the cargo bike rests on the wheel contact plane with its wheels and / or the wheels of the wheel pair. The wheel contact plane represents, in particular, a road surface. The wheels of the wheel pair are preferably part of a vehicle axle of the cargo bike, which is, in particular, a front axle of the cargo bike. Advantageously, the wheel planes of the wheels and / or the wheel planes of the wheels of the wheel pair are parallel to each other.

[0010] The tilt limiting device is preferably connected to the tilting device, particularly mechanically, and / or integrated into it, particularly at least partially. For example, the tilting device and the tilt limiting device share common components. The tilting device and the tilt limiting device together, for example, form a tilt and tilt limiting device.

[0011] According to a further development, the tilt limiting device has a stop arrangement. In particular, the tilt angle can be limited, preferably mechanically, by means of the tilt limiting device by striking the stops of the stop arrangement against each other to a maximum permissible tilt angle. Preferably, one or at least one of the stops, which in particular forms an adjustable stop, is adjustable relative to one or at least one other of the stops, which in particular forms a counter-stop, preferably by means of the adjustment drive, advantageously continuously. Thus, the maximum permissible tilt angle is preferably continuously variable and / or reducible.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the stop arrangement has two pairs of stops assigned to opposite directions of inclination, each pair comprising two stops or two of the stops. In particular, the angle of inclination in each direction can be limited, preferably mechanically, by means of the inclination limiting device by striking the stops of the respective pair of stops against each other to the maximum permissible angle of inclination. Preferably, one stop of each pair of stops, which in particular forms an adjustable stop, is adjustable relative to another stop of the respective pair of stops, which in particular forms a counter-stop, preferably by means of the adjustment drive, advantageously continuously. Thus, the maximum permissible angle of inclination in the respective direction or in each direction of inclination can preferably be varied and / or reduced, advantageously continuously.

[0013] Preferably, the wheels of the wheel pair can be tilted relative to the vertical direction in one or two opposing directions by means of the tilting device. Preferably, the tilt angle in each direction can be limited, preferably mechanically, to the maximum permissible tilt angle, preferably by means of the tilt limiting device. Preferably, the adjustment drive can be controlled by the control unit as a function of the speed such that the maximum permissible tilt angle, preferably in the respective direction or in each direction, is advantageously variable and / or reducible as the speed of the cargo bike decreases, preferably automatically, preferably until the cargo bike comes to a standstill, and in particular continuously, advantageously to zero or approximately zero.The maximum permissible angles of inclination, or the magnitudes of the maximum permissible angles of inclination, are preferably equal. In particular, the inclination limiting device is designed such that the maximum permissible angles of inclination, or the magnitudes of the maximum permissible angles of inclination, are equal.

[0014] According to a further development, the control unit allows the adjustment drive to be controlled depending on the speed such that the maximum permissible tilt angle(s), preferably in the respective or each tilt direction, can be varied and / or decreased within one or at least one, preferably predetermined, speed range, advantageously with decreasing speed of the cargo bike, preferably automatically, preferably until the cargo bike comes to a standstill, and in particular continuously. Thus, the maximum permissible tilt angle(s), particularly within the speed range, can be increased with increasing speed, and / or decreased with decreasing speed, and in particular continuously. This facilitates the handling of the cargo bike at low speeds, especially for inexperienced riders.The maximum speed within the speed range is defined, in particular, by a preferably predetermined limit speed. The minimum speed within the speed range is defined, in particular, by a preferably predetermined minimum speed. Advantageously, the minimum speed within the speed range and / or the minimum speed is zero or approximately zero and / or particularly characterizes the standstill of the cargo bike.

[0015] Preferably, the adjustment drive can be controlled by means of the control unit depending on the speed in such a way that the or each maximum permissible inclination angle, preferably in the respective or in each inclination direction, is variable and / or reduced from or when the or a, preferably predetermined, limit speed is undershot, in particular with decreasing speed of the cargo bike, preferably automatically, in particular up to the or a, preferably predetermined, minimum speed or until the cargo bike comes to a standstill, in particular continuously.

[0016] When the cargo bike is stationary, the maximum permissible tilt angle(s), preferably in the respective or in each tilt direction, is in particular zero or approximately zero. Preferably, the adjustment drive can be controlled by the control unit such that the maximum permissible tilt angle(s), preferably in the respective or in each tilt direction, is zero or approximately zero when the cargo bike is stationary. In particular, the tilting capability of the wheels of the wheel pair is blocked or can be blocked when the cargo bike is stationary by means of the tilt limiting device.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the adjustable stop(s), preferably automatically, is adjustable by means of the adjustment drive such that the distance between the adjustable stop(s) and the respective counter-stop(s) is advantageously continuously variable and / or reducible, preferably defining the respective maximum permissible angle of inclination, particularly when the wheels of the wheel pair are not inclined. Preferably, the distance(s) is reduced or reducible with increasing angle of inclination, particularly in the respective direction of inclination.

[0018] According to a further development, one or at least one of the stops, in particular each pair of stops, has a spring or buffer element with which it can strike against another of the stops, in particular that stop or the respective pair of stops. Preferably, the spring or buffer element(s) is elastically deformable and / or compressible by striking against each other, in particular the respective pair of stops. This avoids, in particular, undesirable noises that could otherwise occur due to the striking of the stops. Furthermore, it is preferably possible to dampen the shock caused by the striking of the stops, thereby increasing ride comfort.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the cargo bike comprises a bicycle frame. Preferably, the bicycle frame, together with the wheels and / or the wheels of the wheel pair, can be tilted by means of the tilting device, particularly relative to the vertical direction. This increases riding comfort for the rider, who, on a conventional bicycle, is accustomed to the bicycle frame tilting along with the wheels when cornering. Preferably, a bicycle saddle is mounted on the bicycle frame, which serves in particular as a seat for the rider.

[0020] The cargo bike preferably comprises a bicycle drive system by means of which one or at least one of the wheels can be driven, which is particularly referred to as a driven wheel and / or, in particular, constitutes a driven wheel. Preferably, the bicycle drive system is provided on the bicycle frame. Preferably, the bicycle drive system forms or comprises a pedal drive, particularly one provided on the bicycle frame. Preferably, the cargo bike includes a transmission, which is in particular a traction transmission, for example, a chain drive or belt drive. Advantageously, the bicycle drive system and / or the pedal drive is connected to the driven wheel by means of the transmission. Preferably, the bicycle drive system forms or comprises, in particular, additionally at least one electric motor. Preferably, the electric motor is coupled to the pedal drive, which can be assisted, in particular, by means of the electric motor.Advantageously, the cargo bike includes an electrical energy storage device by which the electric motor can be supplied with electrical current. Preferably, the electrical energy storage device is rechargeable. Preferably, the electrical energy storage device is a battery.

[0021] Preferably, the cargo bike and / or the tilting device has a frame. Preferably, the wheels of the wheel pair are tiltable relative to the frame, particularly by means of the tilting device. This allows the wheels of the wheel pair to be tilted, especially in the vertical direction.

[0022] According to a further development, the tilting device comprises, in particular, two arms pivotably mounted on the frame in the transverse direction of the vehicle at a distance from each other about a pivot axis of the tilting device on the frame side, each preferably carrying one of the wheels of the wheel pair, and a coupling arranged in the vertical direction at a distance from the frame, on which the arms are pivotably mounted in the transverse direction of the vehicle at a distance from each other about a pivot axis of the tilting device on the coupling side. The pivot axes of the tilting device are, in particular, parallel to each other. Preferably, the pivot axes of the tilting device are located at the corners of a parallelogram. Advantageously, the arms are parallel to each other. Preferably, the arms are of the same length. Advantageously, the frame and the coupling are parallel to each other. Preferably, the frame and the coupling are of the same length.Preferably, the tilting device forms or comprises a parallel oscillating gear. A parallel oscillating gear corresponds in particular to a parallel crank gear, in which the arms are designed not as cranks but as rocker arms.

[0023] The coupling comprises, for example, two, in particular parallel, coupling links that are spaced apart from each other in the direction of the pivot axes of the tilting device. For example, the arms are arranged between the coupling links and are, in particular, hinged to each of the coupling links. The frame comprises, for example, two, in particular parallel, frame members that are spaced apart from each other in the direction of the pivot axes of the tilting device. For example, the arms are arranged between the frame members and are, in particular, hinged to each of the frame members.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the cargo bike comprises a frame element which is pivotably mounted, particularly centrally, between the frame-side pivot axes of the tilting device on the frame and, particularly centrally, between the coupling-side pivot axes of the tilting device on the coupling about one frame pivot axis each. Preferably, the frame pivot axes run parallel to each other. Advantageously, the frame pivot axes run parallel to the pivot axes of the tilting device. Preferably, the frame element, particularly thus, can be tilted together with the wheels and / or with the wheels of the wheel pair, particularly relative to the vertical direction, by means of the tilting device. For example, the frame element is arranged between the coupling links and is particularly articulated to each of the coupling links. Furthermore, the frame element is, for example, arranged between the frame links and is particularly articulated to each of the frame links.The frame element serves in particular to connect the bicycle frame to the tilting device. Preferably, the bicycle frame is connected to the tilting device by means of the frame element. Preferably, the frame element is fixed and / or rigidly connected to the bicycle frame and / or forms part of the bicycle frame. For example, the bicycle frame includes the frame element.

[0025] Preferably, the bicycle frame, in particular thus, is tiltable together with the wheels and / or the wheels of the wheel pair, especially relative to the vertical direction, by means of the tilting device. The frame element can, for example, be considered part of the bicycle frame, especially if the bicycle frame includes the frame element and / or the frame element forms part of the bicycle frame. For example, the term "frame element" can also be replaced by the term "bicycle frame".

[0026] Preferably, a component group comprising the wheels and / or the wheels of the wheel pair and / or the bicycle frame and / or the frame element can be tilted relative to the vertical direction by means of the tilting device, wherein the tilting angle particularly characterizes the tilting of the component group.

[0027] According to a further development, one of the stops, in particular each pair of stops, is located on the frame element or on the bicycle frame, and another of the stops, in particular this one or of the respective pair of stops, is located on the frame or on the coupling. Alternatively, for example, one of the stops, in particular each pair of stops, is located on the frame, and another of the stops, in particular this one or of the respective pair of stops, is located on the coupling. Thus, the tilt limiting device, or at least a part thereof, can be designed to be particularly compact and / or integrated into the tilting device.

[0028] Preferably, the counter-stops, in particular the pairs of stops, are arranged at intervals in the transverse direction of the vehicle. Advantageously, the frame element is arranged in the transverse direction of the vehicle, preferably centrally, between the counter-stops, in particular the pairs of stops. Preferably, the counter-stops, in particular the pairs of stops, are provided on the frame or the coupling and / or rigidly connected to the frame or the coupling. For example, the adjustable stops, in particular the pairs of stops, are provided and / or arranged in the transverse direction of the vehicle between the counter-stops, in particular the pairs of stops. Preferably, the frame element is arranged in the transverse direction of the vehicle between the adjustable stops, in particular the pairs of stops.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the pair of wheels is spaced apart from one or at least one other wheel in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The other wheel is preferably rotatably mounted on the bicycle frame about a wheel axis. Preferably, the wheel plane of the other wheel lies in a frame plane extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, which runs in the transverse direction of the vehicle, particularly centrally, between the wheel planes of the wheels of the pair. Preferably, the other wheel is tiltable together with the bicycle frame, particularly relative to the vertical direction, preferably by means of a tilting device. Advantageously, the other wheel is driveable by means of the bicycle drive and / or the other wheel forms, for example, the or a driveable wheel, particularly by means of the bicycle drive. Preferably, the number of wheels is three. The other wheel can, therefore, for example, also be referred to as the third wheel.Preferably, the other wheel and / or the third wheel forms a rear wheel of the cargo bike. Advantageously, the wheels of the wheel pair form the front wheels of the cargo bike.

[0030] Preferably, the pivot axes of the tilting device run in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and in particular, each axe runs in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Preferably, the frame pivot axes also run in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Advantageously, the bicycle frame and / or the frame element lies in the plane of the frame.

[0031] The longitudinal direction of the vehicle preferably runs transversely or perpendicularly to the vehicle's transverse direction. Advantageously, the longitudinal direction of the vehicle runs parallel to the wheel contact plane. Preferably, the direction of travel, particularly the usual or forward direction of travel of the cargo bike, runs in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Advantageously, the vehicle's transverse direction runs parallel to the wheel contact plane. The uninclined state is defined in particular by an angle of inclination of zero or approximately zero.

[0032] Preferably, the cargo bike includes handlebars. Preferably, the handlebars are rotatably mounted on the bike frame about a handlebar axis. Advantageously, the wheels of the wheel pair can be steered by means of the handlebars. Preferably, the frame plane, particularly when the wheels of the wheel pair are not steered, runs parallel to the wheel planes of the wheels of the wheel pair.

[0033] According to one embodiment, each arm has a pivoting stub, in particular about one or more wheel steering axes. Preferably, one of the wheels of the wheel pair is rotatably mounted on each pivoting stub, in particular about one or more wheel pivot axes. The pivoting stubs are preferably coupled to the handlebars of the cargo bike. In particular, the pivoting stubs, and thus preferably also the wheels of the wheel pair, in particular about the wheel steering axes, can be pivoted by means of the handlebars and / or by rotating the handlebars about the handlebar axis.

[0034] Preferably, the cargo bike includes a loading platform, which is primarily used for carrying loads. Preferably, the loading platform is fixedly and / or rigidly connected to the bicycle frame, rack, or coupling. The loading platform is positioned longitudinally, for example, in front of or behind the handlebars and / or the saddle. In particular, the loading platform is positioned longitudinally between the handlebars and the front axle.

[0035] The adjustment drive is, for example, a linear drive, a rotary drive, or a swivel drive. In particular, the adjustment drive is an electric drive. Preferably, the adjustment drive comprises one or more electric motors and / or one or more gearboxes. Preferably, the adjustable stops are mechanically coupled to one another, particularly by means of the gearbox(s), such that they can be adjusted together by means of the adjustment drive.

[0036] According to a first alternative, the adjustable stop, in particular each pair of stops, is translationally adjustable relative to the counter-stop, in particular this or the respective pair of stops, preferably in an axial direction, by means of the adjusting drive. In this case, the adjusting drive is in particular a linear drive. Preferably, the adjusting drive, in particular for each pair of stops, comprises one or at least one rack or threaded spindle that is translationally adjustable, preferably in the axial direction, and which has or forms the adjustable stop, in particular of the respective pair of stops, at one of its ends, or is connected to the adjustable stop, in particular of the respective pair of stops. For example, the racks and / or the threaded spindles are guided translationally adjustable on the frame element.

[0037] For example, the tilt limiting device includes a claw coupling. For example, the adjustable stop and the counter-stop, or the stops, in particular the pairs of stops, together form the claw coupling. Preferably, the claw coupling has wedge-shaped claws. The claw coupling preferably comprises two coupling parts that are axially displaceable relative to each other, each coupling part having several claws projecting axially towards the other coupling part, which are arranged evenly distributed around an axially extending central axis of the claw coupling. Between the claws of each coupling part, spaces are provided in the circumferential direction of the claw coupling, into which the claws of the other coupling part engage or can engage axially.Each claw of each coupling part is specifically designed as a wedge tapering towards the other coupling part and is bounded circumferentially by two side surfaces that form the wedge faces. Preferably, the adjustment drive comprises a rack or threaded spindle, adjustable particularly in the axial direction, which is connected at one of its ends to one of the coupling parts, which is specifically an adjustable coupling part. In this case, the adjustment drive is preferably a linear drive. Preferably, the rack or threaded spindle and / or the adjustable coupling part is guided on the coupling so as to be translationally adjustable, particularly in the axial direction. Preferably, another of the coupling parts is provided on the frame element and / or rigidly connected to it.

[0038] According to a second alternative, the adjustable stop, in particular each pair of stops, is pivotable or rotatable relative to the counter-stop, in particular this or the respective pair of stops, by means of the adjustment drive, preferably about one or more pivot axes (stop pivot axis) or rotation axes (stop rotation axis). In this case, the adjustment drive is in particular a rotary drive or a pivot drive. For example, the adjustable stops are pivotably or rotatably mounted on the frame element, the rack, or the coupling, preferably about the respective pivot axis or rotation axis.

[0039] The stop pivot axes and / or the stop rotation axes preferably extend in the direction of the pivot axes of the tilting device and / or in the direction of the frame pivot axes and / or in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Alternatively, the stop pivot axes and / or the stop rotation axes extend, for example, in the transverse direction of the vehicle. In particular, the stop pivot axes and / or the stop rotation axes extend parallel to each other. Alternatively, the stop pivot axes and / or the stop rotation axes coincide, for example, and preferably form a common pivot axis (stop pivot axis) and / or a common rotation axis (stop rotation axis). The common stop pivot axis and / or the common stop rotation axes preferably extend in the direction of the pivot axes of the tilting device and / or in the direction of the frame pivot axes and / or in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.Alternatively, the common stop pivot axis and / or the common stop rotation axis runs, for example, in the transverse direction of the vehicle.

[0040] According to a first embodiment, a first of the adjustable stops is pivotable about its pivot axis (first stop pivot axis) by means of the adjustment drive and is coupled to a second of the adjustable stops, in particular by a gearbox, such that by pivoting the first adjustable stop about the first stop pivot axis, the second adjustable stop is pivotable about its pivot axis (second stop pivot axis). For example, the adjustable stops each have a toothed section in the region of their respective stop pivot axis, with the adjustable stops meshing with each other via their toothed sections. The adjustable stops are thus coupled to each other, in particular by their toothed sections. Preferably, the gearbox includes the toothed sections and / or is formed by them.The first adjustable stop is formed, in particular, by the adjustable stop of a first pair of stops, and the second, more adjustable stop is formed, in particular, by the adjustable stop of a second pair of stops. The first stop pivot axis and the second stop pivot axis preferably extend, in particular, in the direction of the pivot axes of the tilting device and / or in the direction of the frame pivot axes and / or in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0041] According to a second embodiment, a lever rotatable about a pivot axis (lever axis) by means of the adjustment drive is provided. A rod is articulated to each adjustable stop at a distance from the lever axis, and these rods are articulated to the respective adjustable stop at a distance from the lever. The rods are articulated on opposite sides of the lever with respect to the lever axis. In particular, the adjustable stops can be pivoted about their stop pivot axes by means of the adjustment drive and / or by rotating the lever about the lever axis. The adjustable stops are formed, in particular, by the adjustable stops of the stop pairs. The lever axis preferably runs in the direction of the pivot axes of the tilting device and / or in the direction of the frame pivot axes and / or in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0042] According to a third embodiment, a stop body is rotatable about a rotational axis (stop body axis of rotation) by means of the adjustment drive and has an oval circumferential surface extending around the stop body axis of rotation, wherein areas of the circumferential surface opposite each other with respect to the stop body axis of rotation form the adjustable stops, in particular the pairs of stops. Preferably, the adjustable stops are rotatable about their stop axes of rotation by means of the adjustment drive and / or by rotating the stop body about the stop body axis of rotation, which preferably coincide and / or are advantageously formed by the stop body axis of rotation. Preferably, the opposite areas of the circumferential surface each face one of the counter-stops and / or each face the counter-stop of the respective pair of stops.The axis of rotation of the stop body preferably runs in the direction of the pivot axes of the tilting device and / or in the direction of the frame pivot axes and / or in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0043] According to a fourth embodiment, a lever rotatable about a pivot axis (lever axis) by means of the adjusting drive is provided, on which the adjustable stops, in particular the pairs of stops, are provided, preferably at a distance from the lever axis. Preferably, the counter-stop of each pair of stops has a stop surface facing the adjustable stop of the respective pair of stops, which is inclined relative to a plane perpendicular to the lever axis. Preferably, the stop surfaces are inclined towards each other. Advantageously, the stop surfaces are mirror-symmetrical with respect to the plane, which preferably runs centrally between the adjustable stops. In particular, the adjustable stops can be pivoted about their stop pivot axes by means of the adjusting drive and / or by rotating the lever about the lever axis, which preferably coincide and / or are preferably formed by the lever axis.The lever pivot axis preferably runs transversely to the vehicle. Preferably, the stop surfaces are arranged at intervals in the transverse direction of the vehicle. Advantageously, the adjustable stops are arranged transversely to the vehicle between the stop surfaces. Preferably, the frame element is arranged transversely to the vehicle between the adjustable stops. Advantageously, the adjustable stops are arranged transversely to the vehicle between the counter-stops.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the frame and the coupling each form a component, wherein the tilt limiting device has a pulley rotatably mounted on a first component, preferably by means of a bracket, particularly centrally in the transverse direction of the vehicle, preferably about an axis of rotation (pulley axis). The pulley is preferably arranged on a side of a second component facing away from the first component, particularly in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the tilt limiting device preferably has a cable wound onto the pulley, the ends of which are attached to the second component, preferably on opposite sides of the pulley and / or the frame element, preferably in the transverse direction of the vehicle. Preferably, the distance between the two components can be limited to a minimum by the cable. In particular, the pulley can be rotatably and / or driven by means of the adjustment drive, preferably about the pulley axis of rotation.Preferably, and in particular thus, the rope can be wound onto and / or unwound from the pulley, preferably by means of the drive. This means that, in particular, by winding the rope onto the pulley and / or unwinding the rope from the pulley, the minimum distance between the components is preferably continuously variable and / or adjustable. It is also preferred that, in this way, the maximum permissible tilt angle, preferably in each tilt direction, is advantageously continuously variable and / or reducible. The pulley's axis of rotation preferably runs in the direction of the pivot axes of the tilting device and / or in the direction of the frame pivot axes and / or in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The first component is preferably formed by the frame or by the coupling.

[0045] The invention is described below with reference to preferred embodiments and the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a schematic top view of a cargo bicycle according to a first embodiment, which has a frame and three wheels, two of which form a pair of wheels and are provided on a front axle of the cargo bicycle, which has a tilting device by means of which the frame and the wheels can be tilted relative to an upward direction perpendicular to a wheel contact plane, Fig. 2 a schematic side view of the cargo bike according to the first embodiment, Fig. 3 a schematic front view of the cargo bike according to the first embodiment, Fig. 4 a front view of the cargo bike according to the first embodiment in an inclined state of the frame and wheels, Fig. 5 a perspective view of the tilting device and a tilt limiting device according to the first embodiment, Fig. 6 a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device according to the first embodiment, Fig. 7 a perspective view of a tilting device and a tilt limiting device according to a second embodiment, Fig. 8 a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device according to the second embodiment, Fig. 9 a perspective view of a tilting device and a tilt limiting device according to a third embodiment, Fig. 10 a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device according to the third embodiment, Fig. 11 a perspective view of a tilting device and a tilt limiting device according to a fourth embodiment, Fig. 12 a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device according to the fourth embodiment, Fig. 13 a perspective view of a tilting device and a tilt limiting device according to a fifth embodiment, Fig. 14 a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device according to the fifth embodiment, Fig. 15 a perspective view of a tilting device and a tilt limiting device according to a sixth embodiment, Fig. 16 a detailed illustration of the tilt limiting device according to the sixth embodiment, Fig. 17 a perspective view of a tilting device and a tilt limiting device according to a seventh embodiment, Fig. 18 a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device according to the seventh embodiment, Fig. 19 a perspective view of a tilting device and a tilt limiting device according to an eighth embodiment and Fig. 20 a single illustration of the tilt limiting device according to the eighth embodiment.

[0046] From the Fig. Figures 1 to 6 show different views and partial views of a cargo bicycle 1 according to a first embodiment, which has a bicycle frame 2 and three wheels 3, 4, and 5. Wheels 3 and 4 are arranged at a distance from each other in a transverse direction y of the vehicle and form a pair of wheels that are offset from wheel 5 in a longitudinal direction x of the vehicle. Wheels 3 and 4 are mounted on a front axle 6 of the cargo bicycle 1, which has a tilting device 7. By means of this device, the bicycle frame 2 and wheels 3, 4, and 5 can be tilted relative to an upward direction 9 perpendicular to a wheel contact plane 8. Wheels 3 and 4 of the wheel pair form the front wheels of the cargo bicycle 1.

[0047] In the Fig. Figures 1 to 3 show the bicycle frame 2 and the wheels 3, 4 and 5 in a non-tilted state. Fig. 1 a top view of the cargo bike 1, Fig. 2 a side view of the cargo bike 1 and Fig. 3 a front view of the cargo bike 1. Fig. Figure 4 also shows a front view of the cargo bike 1, although the bike frame 2 and the wheels are shown in an inclined position. From Fig. Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the tilting device 7, which also includes a tilt limiting device 10, shown in detail below. Fig. 6 is evident.

[0048] The wheel 5 forms a rear wheel of the cargo bike 1 and is rotatably mounted on the bicycle frame 2 about a wheel pivot 11. Furthermore, the cargo bike 1 has a bicycle drive 12 provided on the bicycle frame 2, by means of which the wheel 5 can be driven. The bicycle drive 12 comprises a pedal drive with pedals 13 and an electric motor 14 coupled to the pedal drive, by means of which the pedal drive can be assisted. The electric motor 14 can be supplied with electrical energy by means of an electrical energy storage device 15 in the form of a battery attached to the bicycle frame 2. The cargo bike also includes a transmission 16 in the form of a traction drive, by means of which the bicycle drive 12 is coupled to the wheel 5.

[0049] A bicycle saddle 17 is mounted on the bicycle frame 2, serving as a seat for the rider of the cargo bike 1. Furthermore, the cargo bike 1 includes a bicycle handlebar 19, rotatably mounted on the bicycle frame 2 about a handlebar axle 18, by means of which the wheels 3 and 4 can be steered. The cargo bike 1 also has a loading platform 20, which is primarily used for carrying loads. The loading platform 20 is arranged in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle between the bicycle handlebar 19 and the front axle 6.

[0050] The tilting device 7 comprises a frame 21, two arms 23 pivotably mounted on the frame 21 at a distance from each other in the transverse direction y of the vehicle about a pivot axis 22 on the frame side of the tilting device 7, and a coupling 24 arranged at a distance from the frame 21 in the vertical direction 9, on which the arms 23 are pivotably mounted in the transverse direction y of the vehicle about a pivot axis 25 on the coupling side of the tilting device 7, wherein the pivot axes 22 and 25 of the tilting device 7 each run in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle.

[0051] The frame 21 comprises two parallel frame members 26, spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle. Furthermore, the coupling 24 comprises two parallel coupling members 27, spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle. The arms 23 are arranged both between the frame members 26 and articulated to each of the frame members 26, and also between the coupling members 27 and articulated to each of the coupling members 27.

[0052] A frame element 28 is rigidly connected to the vehicle frame 2. This frame element 28 is pivotally mounted on the frame 21 centrally between the frame-side pivot axes 22 of the tilting device 7 and on the coupling 24 centrally between the coupling-side pivot axes 25 of the tilting device 7, each pivotally mounted about a frame pivot axis 29. The frame pivot axes 29 extend in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle. The frame element 28 is arranged both between the frame members 26 and articulated to each of the frame members 26, and also between the coupling members 27 and articulated to each of the coupling members 27.

[0053] Each of the arms 23 has a steering knuckle 30 pivotally mounted about a wheel steering axis 31, with each of the wheels 3, 4 of the wheel pair being rotatably mounted on the steering knuckle 30 about a wheel rotation axis 32 or 33, respectively. Wheel 3 is rotatably mounted about wheel rotation axis 32, and wheel 4 is rotatably mounted about wheel rotation axis 33. The steering knuckles 30 are coupled to the bicycle handlebar 19 of the cargo bike 1, so that by rotating the bicycle handlebar 19 about the handlebar axis 18, the steering knuckles 30, and thus also the wheels 3, 4 of the wheel pair, can be pivoted about the wheel steering axes 31.

[0054] By means of the tilting device 7, the wheels 3 and 4 of the wheel pair can be tilted relative to the frame 21 and thus relative to the vertical direction 9 running perpendicular to the wheel contact plane 8, which forms an angle of inclination α with a wheel plane 34 of the wheel 4, characterizing the inclination of the wheels 3 and 4 of the wheel pair. In doing so, the tilting device 7 not only tilts the wheels 3 and 4 of the wheel pair, but also the frame element 28 and thus also the bicycle frame 2 together with the wheel 5.

[0055] The tilting device 7 incorporates one or at least a part of a tilt limiting device 10, which is shown in detail as follows: Fig. 6 is evident.

[0056] The tilt limiting device 10 comprises a speed sensor 35, by means of which the speed v of the cargo bike 1 can be detected, an adjustment drive 36 and a control unit 37 connected to the speed sensor 35 and the adjustment drive 36, by means of which the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled.

[0057] Furthermore, the tilt limiting device 10 comprises two counter stops 38 and 39, which are attached to the frame 21, such that the frame element 28 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the counter stops 38 and 39. The adjusting drive 36 is provided on the frame element 28 and comprises an electric motor 40, a gearbox 41, and two racks 42 and 43, which are coupled to the electric motor 40 via the gearbox 41 and are slidably guided on the frame element 28. An end of the rack 42 facing the counter stop 38 forms an adjustable stop 44, which together with the counter stop 38 forms a first pair of stops. Furthermore, an end of the rack 43 facing the counter stop 39 forms an adjustable stop 45, which together with the counter stop 39 forms a second pair of stops.

[0058] The pairs of stops are assigned to opposite inclination directions 46 and 47, with the first pair of stops assigned to inclination direction 46 and the second pair of stops to inclination direction 47. The inclination angle α can be mechanically limited to a maximum permissible inclination angle in each of the inclination directions by means of the inclination limiting device 10 by abutting the stops of the respective pair of stops against each other. Furthermore, a buffer element 48 is provided on each of the adjustable stops, which dampens the abutment of the stops.

[0059] In Fig. 6, the tilt angle α is zero. Furthermore, the stops of each pair of stops abut each other. The tilting capability of the wheels and the bicycle frame 2 is thus blocked. To allow tilting capability of the wheels and the bicycle frame 2, the adjustable stops 44 and 45 are moved away from the counter-stops 38 and 39, whereby, in the untilted state, i.e., α = 0, the distance between the stops of each pair of stops is a measure of the maximum permissible tilt angle in the respective tilting direction. By means of the control unit 37, the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled as a function of the speed v such that the maximum permissible tilt angle in each tilting direction can be varied and / or reduced, preferably with decreasing speed of the cargo bike, preferably until the cargo bike comes to a standstill, and in particular continuously, advantageously down to zero.

[0060] Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a tilting device 7 and a tilt limiting device 10 according to a second embodiment, wherein features identical or similar to those of the first embodiment are designated with the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 8 shows a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device 10 according to the second embodiment.

[0061] The tilt limiting device 10 comprises a speed sensor 35, by means of which the speed v of the cargo bike 1 can be detected, an adjustment drive 36, and a control unit 37 connected to the speed sensor 35 and the adjustment drive 36, by means of which the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled. Furthermore, the tilt limiting device 10 comprises two counter stops 38 and 39, which are attached to the coupling 24, such that the frame element 28 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the counter stops 38 and 39. The adjustment drive 36 is provided on the frame element 28 and comprises two electric motors 40, two gearboxes 41, and two threaded spindles 49 and 50, each of which is coupled to one of the electric motors 40 via one of the gearboxes 41 and is slidably guided on the frame element 28.An end of the threaded spindle 49 facing the counter stop 38 forms an adjustable stop 44, which together with the counter stop 38 forms a first pair of stops. Furthermore, an end of the threaded spindle 50 facing the counter stop 39 forms an adjustable stop 45, which together with the counter stop 39 forms a second pair of stops.

[0062] According to the second embodiment, the pairs of stops are assigned to opposite inclination directions 46 and 47, with the first pair of stops, for example, assigned to inclination direction 47 and the second pair of stops, for example, to inclination direction 46. In particular, the inclination angle α can be mechanically limited to a maximum permissible inclination angle in each of the inclination directions by means of the inclination limiting device 10 by abutting the stops of the respective pair of stops against each other. Furthermore, a buffer element 48 is provided on each of the adjustable stops, by which the abutment of the stops can be dampened.

[0063] In Fig. 8, the tilt angle α is zero. Furthermore, the stops of each pair of stops abut each other. The tilting capability of the wheels and the bicycle frame 2 is thus blocked. To allow tilting capability of the wheels and the bicycle frame 2, the adjustable stops 44 and 45 are moved away from the counter-stops 38 and 39. In the untilted state, i.e., α = 0, the distance between the stops of each pair of stops is, in particular, a measure of the maximum permissible tilt angle in the respective tilting direction. By means of the control unit 37, the electric motors 40 can be controlled as a function of the speed v such that the maximum permissible tilt angle in each tilting direction can be varied and / or reduced, preferably with decreasing speed of the cargo bike, preferably until the cargo bike comes to a standstill, and in particular continuously, advantageously down to zero.

[0064] Apart from the tilt limiting device, the second embodiment is identical to the first embodiment, so for a further description of the second embodiment, reference is made to the description of the first embodiment.

[0065] Fig. Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a tilting device 7 and a tilt limiting device according to a third embodiment, wherein features identical or similar to those of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 shows a detailed view of the tilt limiting device according to the third embodiment.

[0066] The tilt limiting device comprises a speed sensor by means of which the speed of the cargo bike 1 can be detected, an adjustment drive 36, and a control unit connected to the speed sensor and the adjustment drive 36 by means of which the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled. The adjustment drive 36 is provided on the coupling 24 and comprises an electric motor 40, a gearbox 41, and a threaded spindle 51, which is coupled to the electric motor 40 via the gearbox 41 and is guided on the coupling 24 so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle. The threaded spindle 51 is connected to an adjustable coupling part 52 of a jaw coupling 53, which can engage positively with another coupling part 54 of the jaw coupling 53, which is attached to the frame element 28. Each of the coupling parts 52 and 54 has two or at least two claws extending in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle for positive interlocking.

[0067] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the claws are wedge-shaped, so that a distance a is provided between the claws 55 of the adjustable coupling part 52 and the claws 56 of the other coupling part 54 in the circumferential direction of the claw coupling 53, which depends on a distance b between the claw coupling parts 52 and 54 in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle.

[0068] The claws 56 of the other coupling part 54 form counter stops 38 and 39, which are attached to the frame element 28. Furthermore, the claws 55 of the adjustable coupling part 52 form adjustable stops 44 and 45, which are attached to the coupling 24.

[0069] Apart from the tilt limiting device, the third embodiment is identical to the first embodiment, so for a further description of the third embodiment, reference is made to the description of the first embodiment.

[0070] Fig. Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a tilting device 7 and a tilt limiting device 10 according to a fourth embodiment, wherein features identical or similar to those of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 12 shows a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device 10 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0071] The tilt limiting device 10 comprises a speed sensor 35, by means of which the speed v of the cargo bike 1 can be detected, an adjustment drive 36, and a control unit 37 connected to the speed sensor 35 and the adjustment drive 36, by means of which the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled. Furthermore, the tilt limiting device 10 comprises two counter stops 38 and 39, which are attached to the coupling 24, such that the frame element 28 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the counter stops 38 and 39. The adjustment drive 36 is provided on the frame element 28 and comprises an electric motor 40 and a gearbox 41, by means of which an adjustable stop 44 in the form of a lever is coupled to the electric motor 40 and can be pivoted by means of it about a first stop pivot axis extending in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle.

[0072] Furthermore, a second adjustable stop 45 in the form of a lever is provided, which is pivotably mounted on the frame element 28 about a second stop pivot axis that runs parallel to the first stop pivot axis. The adjustable stops 44 and 45 are each provided with external teeth 57 in the area of ​​their stop pivot axes, wherein the adjustable stops 44 and 45 interlock with each other with their external teeth 57, so that the adjustable stop 45 can be pivoted about the second stop pivot axis by pivoting the adjustable stop 44 about the first stop pivot axis.

[0073] Stops 38 and 44 together form a first pair of stops. Stops 39 and 45 form a second pair of stops. The pairs of stops are assigned to opposite inclination directions 46 and 47, with the first pair of stops assigned to inclination direction 46 and the second pair of stops to inclination direction 47. The inclination angle α can be mechanically limited to a maximum permissible inclination angle in each of the inclination directions by means of the inclination limiting device 10, by abutting the stops of the respective pair of stops against each other. Furthermore, a spring element 58 is provided on each of the adjustable stops, by which the abutment of the stops against each other can be dampened.

[0074] Apart from the tilt limiting device, the fourth embodiment is identical to the first embodiment, so for a further description of the fourth embodiment, reference is made to the description of the first embodiment.

[0075] Fig. Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a tilting device 7 and a tilt limiting device 10 according to a fifth embodiment, wherein features identical or similar to those of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 14 shows a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device 10 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0076] The tilt limiting device 10 comprises a speed sensor 35, by means of which the speed v of the cargo bike 1 can be detected, an adjustment drive 36, and a control unit 37 connected to the speed sensor 35 and the adjustment drive 36, by means of which the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled. Furthermore, the tilt limiting device 10 comprises two counter stops 38 and 39, which are attached to the coupling 24, such that the frame element 28 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the counter stops 38 and 39. The adjustment drive 36 is attached to the frame 21 by means of a bracket 59 and comprises an electric motor 40, by means of which a stop body 60 can be rotated about an axis of rotation 68 extending in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle (stop body axis of rotation) 68. The stop body 60 has an oval circumferential surface 61 extending around the stop body rotation axis 68, which faces the counter stops 38 and 39.By rotating the stop body 60 around the stop body rotation axis 68, the distance between the stop body 60 or its circumferential surface 61 and the counter stops 38 and 39, and thus the maximum permissible inclination angle, can be varied.

[0077] The counter-stop 38 and a region of the circumferential surface 61 facing it together form, for example, a first stop pair. Furthermore, the counter-stop 39 and a region of the circumferential surface 61 facing it form, for example, a second stop pair. The stop pairs are assigned to opposite inclination directions 46 and 47, with the first stop pair being assigned to inclination direction 46 and the second stop pair to inclination direction 47. The inclination angle α can be mechanically limited to a maximum permissible inclination angle in each of the inclination directions by means of the inclination limiting device 10 by abutting the stops of the respective stop pair. Furthermore, a spring element 58 is provided on each of the counter-stops 38 and 39, by which the abutment of the stops can be dampened.

[0078] The first pair of stops thus has an adjustable stop, which is defined by the area of ​​the circumferential surface 61 of the stop body 60 facing the counter-stop 38. Furthermore, the second pair of stops has an adjustable stop, which is defined by the area of ​​the circumferential surface 61 of the stop body 60 facing the counter-stop 39. The adjustable stops are thus formed by the stop body 60.

[0079] Apart from the tilt limiting device, the fifth embodiment is identical to the first embodiment, so for a further description of the fifth embodiment, reference is made to the description of the first embodiment.

[0080] Fig. Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a tilting device 7 and a tilt limiting device 10 according to a sixth embodiment, wherein features identical or similar to those of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 16 shows a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device 10 according to the sixth embodiment.

[0081] The tilt limiting device 10 comprises a speed sensor 35, by means of which the speed v of the cargo bike 1 can be detected, an adjustment drive 36, and a control unit 37 connected to the speed sensor 35 and the adjustment drive 36, by means of which the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled. Furthermore, the tilt limiting device 10 comprises two counter stops 38 and 39, which are attached to the frame 21, such that the frame element 28 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the counter stops 38 and 39.

[0082] The adjusting drive 36 is provided on the coupling 24 and comprises an electric motor 40, by means of which a lever 62 is rotatable about a pivot axis 68 extending in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle (lever pivot axis). A rod 63 is articulated to the lever 62 at a distance from the lever pivot axis 68. This rod 63 is articulated at a distance from the lever 62 to an adjustable stop 44, which is pivotably mounted on the coupling 24 about a first stop pivot axis extending in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle. Furthermore, a rod 64 is articulated to the lever 62 at a distance from the lever pivot axis 68. This rod 64 is articulated at a distance from the lever 62 to an adjustable stop 45, which is pivotably mounted on the coupling 24 about a second stop pivot axis extending parallel to the first stop pivot axis. The rods 63 and 64 are articulated on opposite sides of the lever 62 with respect to the lever pivot axis 68.Furthermore, the adjustable stops 44 and 45 are arranged on different sides of the frame element 28 in the transverse direction y of the vehicle. By rotating the lever 62 about the lever pivot axis 68, the adjustable stops 44 and 45 can thus be pivoted about their stop pivot axes relative to the counter stops 38 and 39.

[0083] Stops 38 and 44 together form, for example, a first pair of stops. Furthermore, stops 39 and 45 form, for example, a second pair of stops. The pairs of stops are assigned to opposite inclination directions 46 and 47, with the first pair of stops assigned to inclination direction 46 and the second pair of stops to inclination direction 47.

[0084] The tilt angle α can be mechanically limited in each of the tilt directions by means of the tilt limiting device 10 by abutting the stops of the respective stop pair to a maximum permissible tilt angle. Furthermore, a spring element 58 is provided on each of the adjustable stops, by which the abutment of the stops can be dampened. The following are shown only as examples. Fig. Figure 16 shows two different variants for the spring element 58. Preferably, however, identical spring elements 58 are provided at the adjustable stops 44 and 45.

[0085] Preferably, the tilt limiting device 10 comprises two additional counter-stops 75 and 76, which are attached to the frame 21, with the frame element 28 arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the two additional counter-stops 75 and 76. The adjustable stop 44 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the counter-stops 75 and 76. Furthermore, the adjustable stop 45 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the counter-stops 39 and 76. The additional counter-stop 75 is associated with the tilt direction 47 and the additional counter-stop 76 with the tilt direction 46. By rotating the lever 62 about the lever pivot axis 68, the adjustable stops 44 and 45 can be pivoted about their pivot axes relative to the additional counter-stops 75 and 76.

[0086] The counterstops 38 and 39 are provided, for example, for a rotation of the lever 62 in a first direction, and the additional counterstops 75 and 76 are provided, for example, for a rotation of the lever 62 in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0087] Apart from the tilt limiting device, the sixth embodiment is identical to the first embodiment, so for a further description of the sixth embodiment, reference is made to the description of the first embodiment.

[0088] Fig. Figure 17 shows a perspective view of a tilting device 7 and a tilt limiting device 10 according to a seventh embodiment, wherein features identical or similar to those of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 18 shows a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device 10 according to the seventh embodiment.

[0089] The tilt limiting device 10 comprises a speed sensor 35, by means of which the speed v of the cargo bike 1 can be detected, an adjustment drive 36 and a control unit 37 connected to the speed sensor 35 and the adjustment drive 36, by means of which the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled.

[0090] Furthermore, the tilt limiting device 10 comprises two counter-stops 38 and 39, which are attached to the coupling 24, such that the frame element 28 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the counter-stops 38 and 39. The adjustment drive 36 is provided on the frame 21 and comprises an electric motor 40, by means of which a lever 65 can be rotated about a pivot axis 68 extending in the transverse direction y of the vehicle (lever pivot axis) 68. The lever 65 comprises two stops 44 and 45, which are adjustable relative to the counter-stops 38 and 39 by rotating the lever 65 about the lever pivot axis 68, so that the stops 44 and 45 form adjustable stops. The adjustable stops 44 and 45 are arranged on opposite sides of the frame element 28 in the transverse direction y of the vehicle. The lever pivot axis 68 thus forms, in particular, a stop pivot axis or a common stop pivot axis.

[0091] The adjustable stop 44 has a stop surface 66 facing a stop surface 67 provided on the counter-stop 38, which is inclined relative to a plane 69 perpendicular to the lever pivot axis 68. Furthermore, the adjustable stop 45 has a stop surface 66 facing a stop surface 67 provided on the counter-stop 39, which is inclined relative to the plane 69 perpendicular to the lever pivot axis 68. The stop surfaces 67 are inclined towards each other, particularly in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle. By pivoting the lever 65, the distance between the adjustable stops and the counter-stops 38 and 39 can thus be varied.

[0092] Stops 38 and 44 together form a first pair of stops. Stops 39 and 45 form a second pair of stops. The pairs of stops are assigned to opposite inclination directions. The inclination angle α can be mechanically limited to a maximum permissible angle in each inclination direction by means of the inclination limiting device 10, which engages the stops of the respective pair of stops.

[0093] Apart from the tilt limiting device, the seventh embodiment is identical to the first embodiment, so for a further description of the seventh embodiment, reference is made to the description of the first embodiment.

[0094] Fig. Figure 19 shows a perspective view of a tilting device 7 and a tilt limiting device 10 according to an eighth embodiment, wherein features identical or similar to those of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 20 shows a detailed representation of the tilt limiting device 10 according to the eighth embodiment.

[0095] The tilt limiting device 10 comprises a speed sensor 35, by means of which the speed v of the cargo bike 1 can be detected, an adjustment drive 36, and a control unit 37 connected to the speed sensor 35 and the adjustment drive 36, by means of which the adjustment drive 36 can be controlled. The adjustment drive 36 is attached to the frame 21 by means of a bracket 70 and comprises an electric motor 40, by means of which a pulley 71 can be rotated about a pivot axis 68 extending in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle (pulley pivot axis) 68. The pulley 71 is arranged on a side of the coupling 24 facing away from the frame 21. A rope 72 is wound onto the pulley 71, the ends of which are attached to the coupling 24 via rope attachments 73 and 74 such that the frame element 28 is arranged in the transverse direction y of the vehicle between the rope attachments 73 and 74.

[0096] When the wheels 3 and 4 are tilted, the distance between the frame 21 and the coupling 24 decreases, so that the minimum possible distance between the frame 21 and the coupling 24 can be determined by the length of the cable 72 between the pulley 71 and the cable attachments 73 and 74. This cable length can be adjusted by rotating the pulley 71 about its axis of rotation 68 using the adjusting drive 36. In particular, the cable 72 can be wound onto and / or unwound from the pulley 71, preferably depending on the direction of rotation of the pulley 71, by rotating the pulley 71 about its axis of rotation 68. The tilt angle α can thus be mechanically limited to a maximum permissible tilt angle by means of the tilt limiting device 10 by winding the cable 72 onto the pulley 71 and / or by unwinding the cable 72 from the pulley 71.

[0097] Apart from the tilt limiting device, the eighth embodiment corresponds to Fig. 20 is identical to the first embodiment, so that for a further description of the eighth embodiment, reference is made to the description of the first embodiment. Reference sign 1 cargo bike 2 bicycle frames 3 wheel 4 wheel 5 wheel 6 Front axle 7 Tilting device 8 Wheel contact level 9 Upward direction 10 Tilt limiting device 11 Wheel pivot 12 bicycle drive 13 Pedal 14 Electric motor 15 electrical energy storage devices 16 gearboxes 17 bicycle saddles 18-inch steering axle 19 bicycle handlebars 20 loading area 21 frame 22 frame-side swivel axis 23 Arm 24 couplings 25 coupling-side swivel axis 26 frame member 27 coupling link 28 frame element 29 Frame pivot axis 30 axle stubs 31 Wheel steering axle 32 Wheel pivot 33 Wheel pivot 34 Wheel level 35 Speed ​​sensor 36 Adjustment drive 37 Control unit 38 Stop / Counter stop 39 Stop / Counterstop 40 electric motor 41 gearboxes 42 Rack and pinion 43 Rack and pinion 44 Stop / Adjustable Stop 45 stop / adjustable stop 46. ​​Direction of inclination 47. Direction of inclination 48 Buffer element 49 Threaded spindle 50 threaded spindle 51 Threaded spindle 52 Coupling part / adjustable coupling part 53 Claw coupling 54 Clutch part 55 Claw of the claw coupling 56 Claw of the claw coupling 57 Gearing 58 spring element 59 bracket 60 stop bodies 61 Circumferential area of ​​the stop body 62 levers 63 bars 64 bars 65 levers 66 Stop surface 67 Stop surface 68 axis of rotation Level 69 70 bracket 71 Pulley 72 rope 73 Rope fastening 74 Rope fastening 75 stop 76 attacks x Vehicle longitudinal direction y vehicle transverse direction z Vehicle lifting direction a distance b distance α Angle of inclination

Claims

[1] Cargo bicycle with several wheels (3, 4, 5), two of which are arranged at a distance from each other in a transverse direction (y) of the vehicle and form a pair of wheels, a tilting device (7) by means of which the wheels (3, 4) of the pair of wheels can be tilted relative to a vertical direction (9) perpendicular to a wheel contact plane (8), which encloses an angle of inclination (α) characterizing the inclination of the wheels (3, 4) of the pair of wheels with a wheel plane (34) of at least one of the wheels (3, 4) of the pair of wheels, and an adjustable tilt limiting device (10) by means of which the angle of inclination (α) can be limited to a maximum permissible angle of inclination, characterized bya speed sensor (35) by means of which the speed (v) of the cargo bike (1) can be detected, an adjustment drive (36) by means of which the tilt limiting device (10) can be adjusted in such a way that the maximum permissible tilt angle can be varied, and a control unit (37) connected to the speed sensor (35) and the adjustment drive (36) by means of which the adjustment drive (36) can be controlled as a function of the speed (v) in such a way that the maximum permissible tilt angle can be reduced with decreasing speed (v) of the cargo bike (1). [2] Cargo bike according to claim 1, characterized by, that by means of the control unit (37) the adjustment drive (36) can be controlled as a function of the speed (v) in such a way that the maximum permissible angle of inclination can be continuously reduced from or when a predetermined limit speed is undershot with decreasing speed (v) of the cargo bike (1) until the cargo bike (1) comes to a standstill. [3] Cargo bike according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a bicycle frame (2) which can be tilted relative to the vertical direction (9) by means of the tilting device (7) together with the wheels (3, 4) of the pair of wheels, wherein the pair of wheels has a distance in a longitudinal direction (x) to at least one other of the wheels (5), which is rotatably mounted on the bicycle frame (2) about a wheel axis of rotation (11). [4] Cargo bike according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the tilting device (7) has a frame (21), two arms (23) pivotably mounted on the frame (21) at a distance from each other in the transverse direction (y) of the vehicle about a pivot axis (22) on the frame side of the tilting device (7), each arm carrying one of the running wheels (3, 4) of the running wheel pair, and a coupling (24) arranged at a distance from the frame (21) in the vertical direction (9), on which the arms (23) pivotably mounted at a distance from each other in the transverse direction (y) of the vehicle about a pivot axis (25) on the coupling side of the tilting device (7), wherein the pivot axes (22, 25) of the tilting device (7) run parallel to each other. [5] Cargo bike according to claim 4, characterized by , that on each of the arms (23) a steering knuckle (30) is pivotably mounted about a wheel steering axis (31), wherein on each of the steering knuckles (30) one of the running wheels (3, 4) of the running wheel pair is rotatably mounted about a wheel rotation axis (32, 33). [6] Cargo bike according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by a frame element (28) which is pivotably mounted on the frame (21) between the frame-side pivot axes (22) of the tilting device (7) and on the coupler (24) about a frame pivot axis (29), wherein the frame pivot axes (29) run parallel to the pivot axes (22, 25) of the tilting device (7). [7] Cargo bike according to claims 3 and 6, characterized by , that the frame element (28) is firmly connected to the bicycle frame (2). [8] Cargo bike according to one of claims 4 to 6 or according to claims 4 and 7, characterized by, that the frame (21) and the coupling (24) each form a component and the tilt limiting device (10) has a rope pulley (71) rotatably mounted on a first of the components, which is arranged on a side of a second of the components facing away from the first component, and a rope (72) wound onto the rope pulley (71), the ends of which are attached to the second component, wherein the rope pulley (71) can be rotated by means of the adjusting drive (36) and thus the rope (72) can be wound onto and / or unwound from the rope pulley (71). [9] Cargo bike according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by, that the tilt limiting device (10) has a stop arrangement by means of which the tilt angle (α) can be mechanically limited to the maximum permissible tilt angle by striking against each other stops (38, 44; 39, 45) of the stop arrangement, wherein at least one of the stops (44; 45), which forms an adjustable stop, is adjustable relative to at least one other of the stops (38; 39), which forms a counter-stop, by means of the adjusting drive (36), so that the maximum permissible tilt angle is variable. [10] Cargo bike according to claim 9, characterized by , that the adjustable stop (44; 45) can be adjusted by means of the adjusting drive (36) such that a distance between the adjustable stop (44; 45) and the counter-stop (38; 39) can be varied, which defines the maximum permissible angle of inclination in the non-inclined state of the wheels (3, 4) of the wheel pair. [11] Cargo bike according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by , that at least one of the stops (44) has a spring or buffer element (48) with which it can strike against another of the stops (38), so that the spring or buffer element (48) is elastically deformable by striking against each other these stops (38, 44). [12] Cargo bike according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by , that the adjustable stop (44; 45) is translationally adjustable relative to the counter stop (38; 39) by means of the adjusting drive (36). [13] Cargo bike according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by , that the adjustable stop (44; 45) can be pivoted or rotated relative to the counter stop (38; 39) about a pivot axis or rotation axis (68) by means of the adjusting drive (36).

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