VEHICLE PLATFORM, MOTOR VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR LOADING AND UNLOADING AN UPPER BODY STRUCTURE ONTO AND FROM A VEHICLE PLATFORM OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

Abstract

Vehicle platform (100) for a motor vehicle (200), comprising: a platform base (1) extending in a longitudinal direction (Y); and A loading system (2) for laterally loading and unloading an upper body structure (210) onto and from the platform base (1), wherein the loading system (2) comprises a first fork arm (20A) and a second fork arm (20B) for supporting the upper body structure (210) with respect to a vertical direction (Z) and a lifting mechanism (3) coupled to the platform base (1) and the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B), wherein the lifting mechanism (3) is configured to move the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) relative to the platform base (1) along the vertical direction (Z), wherein the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) are positioned spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (Y) and each along a lateral direction (X) between a retracted position in which the fork arms (20A, 20B) completely overlap with the platform base (1) and a are movable in the extended position in which the fork arms (20A,20B) project in the lateral direction (X) from a lateral side (1C, 1D) of the platform base (1), , wherein the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) each have at least one engagement structure (21A, 21B) designed to engage in a corresponding fork arm engagement structure (221) of the upper body structure (210), and wherein the at least one engagement structure (21A, 21B) of the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) is formed by a pin projecting from the respective fork arm (20A, 20B) or by a recess formed in the respective fork arm (20A, 20B).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle platform for a motor vehicle, a motor vehicle and a method for loading and unloading an upper body structure onto and from a vehicle platform of a motor vehicle. background

[0002] A current trend in the automotive industry is to provide standardized and scalable platforms for electric vehicles (EVs) as the basis for future vehicles within a completely new vehicle architecture. This aims to save development time and costs, thus bringing new electric cars to market faster. To this end, modular, electrically driven, and ready-to-drive platforms, also known as "skateboards," are being developed specifically for combination with body shells of various types and shapes. In this approach, the vehicle platform represents the common component of all vehicles and can integrate the chassis, powertrain, energy storage, crash management system, and so on. The upper body structure, or "top hat," on the other hand, comes in several variants, each specifically designed for different purposes depending on the customer's specific needs.

[0003] Such purpose-built vehicles (PBVs) can be developed for specific applications, such as last-mile delivery or autonomous shuttles. Designed from the outset for specific applications, they can be mass-produced at a much lower cost than would otherwise be possible due to standardization efforts. Purpose-built EV platforms can not only offer lower material costs but also improved performance in terms of range, acceleration, and interior space. Furthermore, developing a vehicle architecture based entirely on an EV concept, without the legacy elements of an internal combustion engine, generally results in fewer compromises and greater flexibility.

[0004] The modular design of vehicle structures creates the need to quickly and seamlessly exchange different body structures on a single vehicle platform. Various solutions are proposed for this and similar purposes, including Rinspeed's MetroSnap concept, Daimler's Vision URBANETIC approach, and Scania's NXT.

[0005] Furthermore, US 2007 / 0 154 295 A1 and DE 10 2013 019 419 A1 each disclose a vehicle platform for a motor vehicle, comprising: a platform base extending in a longitudinal direction;and a loading system for laterally loading and unloading an upper body structure onto and from the platform base, wherein the loading system comprises a first fork arm and a second fork arm for supporting the upper body structure in a vertical direction and a lifting mechanism coupled to the platform base and the first and second fork arms, wherein the lifting mechanism is configured to move the first and second fork arms relative to the platform base along the vertical direction, wherein the first and second fork arms are positioned longitudinally spaced apart from each other and are each movable along a lateral direction between a retracted position in which the fork arms completely overlap the platform base and an extended position in which the fork arms project in the lateral direction from a lateral side of the platform base. Disclosure of the invention

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to find simple but effective solutions for loading a vehicle platform with an upper body structure.

[0007] For this purpose, the present invention provides a vehicle platform according to claim 1, a motor vehicle according to claim 12 and a method according to claim 13.

[0008] A first aspect of the inventions provides a vehicle platform for a motor vehicle. The vehicle platform comprises a platform base extending in a longitudinal direction and a loading system for laterally loading and unloading an upper body structure onto and from the platform base.The loading system comprises a first fork arm and a second fork arm for supporting the upper body structure in a vertical direction and a lifting mechanism coupled to the platform base and the first and second fork arms, wherein the lifting mechanism is configured to move the first and second fork arms relative to the platform base along the vertical direction, wherein the first and second fork arms are positioned longitudinally spaced apart from each other and are each movable along a lateral direction between a retracted position in which the fork arms completely overlap the platform base and an extended position in which the fork arms project in the lateral direction from a lateral side of the platform base.The first and second fork arms each have at least one engagement structure designed to engage with a corresponding fork arm engagement structure of the upper body structure, and the at least one engagement structure of the first and second fork arms is formed by a pin protruding from the respective fork arm or by a recess formed in the respective fork arm.

[0009] A second aspect of the invention provides a motor vehicle, in particular an electrically powered vehicle, with a vehicle platform according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0010] A third aspect of the invention provides a method for loading and unloading an upper body structure onto and from a vehicle platform of a motor vehicle. The method can, in particular, use the vehicle platform of the first aspect or the vehicle of the second aspect of the invention.The method comprises engaging first and second fork arms coupled to a platform base of the vehicle platform with the upper body structure, the platform base extending in a longitudinal direction, raising the upper body structure by moving the first and second fork arms in a vertical direction relative to the platform base by means of a lifting mechanism coupled to the platform base and the first and second fork arms, moving the fork arms in a lateral direction over a lateral side of the platform base, and lowering the upper body structure by moving the first and second fork arms in a vertical direction relative to the platform base by means of the lifting mechanism.

[0011] One of the ideas on which the present invention is based is that a vehicle platform is enabled to autonomously load and unload an upper body structure or "hat" using a fork-like mechanism. For this purpose, the vehicle platform comprises a loading mechanism with fork arms that extend laterally from a lateral side of a platform base and are movable up and down vertically by a lifting mechanism. The platform base can, for example, have a substantially rectangular perimeter and extend longitudinally between a first end and a second end. The lateral sides extend longitudinally between the first and second ends. A first fork arm can be arranged in the region of the first end, and a second fork arm can be arranged in the region of the second end. The lateral direction extends transversely to the longitudinal direction.The vertical direction extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and perpendicular to the lateral direction. The vertical direction can, for example, run parallel to the direction of gravity. Each fork arm can include a fork arm drive mechanism designed to move the respective fork arm along the lateral direction, e.g., a spindle drive, a hydraulic cylinder, or similar device.

[0012] Since the fork arms are spaced apart and movable both laterally and vertically, a fast and stable loading and unloading process can be achieved. In particular, because the lifting mechanism is integrated into the vehicle platform, i.e., coupled to the vehicle base, the vehicle platform itself is equipped with the means for the quick and smooth loading and unloading of the upper body structure without the need for additional tools, components, and / or equipment. In this way, for example, PVB upper sections can be exchanged quickly and independently. Thus, the present invention elegantly solves one of the key challenges of PVB mobility concepts by enabling loading and unloading within an integrated system.

[0013] Further embodiments of the present invention are the subject of the further dependent claims and the following description with reference to the drawings.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the first and second fork arms each have at least one engagement structure designed to engage with a corresponding fork arm engagement structure of the upper body structure. According to some embodiments, the at least one engagement structure of the first and second fork arms is formed by a pin projecting from the respective fork arm or by a recess formed in the respective fork arm. For example, each fork arm can have two or more engagement structures spaced apart from one another along the fork arm. The engagement structures offer the advantage of reliably preventing the upper body structure from slipping.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the first and second fork arms are movable between the retracted position and a first extended position, in which the fork arms project laterally from a first lateral side of the platform base, and between the retracted position and a second extended position, in which the fork arms project laterally from a second lateral side of the platform base. This means that the fork arms can be moved or extended to either opposite lateral side of the platform base. This allows the upper body structure to be loaded and unloaded from either side.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the first and second fork arms are each designed as telescopic arms. For example, each fork arm can comprise a guide rail extending laterally, a support rail assembly with at least one support rail guided on the guide rail, and a fork arm rail guided on a support rail of the support rail assembly. A telescopic arrangement of the fork arms offers the advantage that, on the one hand, the fork arm can be extended to a relatively large length, while in the retracted position it can be stored compactly. On the other hand, the upper body structure can be easily supported across its entire width, which facilitates positioning and further prevents the upper body structure from slipping or tipping.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the lifting mechanism comprises at least one lifting assembly. According to some embodiments, the lifting mechanism comprises a first lifting assembly coupled to the first fork arm and a second lifting assembly coupled to the second fork arm.In general, the lifting arrangement comprises a first longitudinal element with a first end coupled to the platform base such that it is rotatable about a first axis of rotation, and a second longitudinal element with a first end movably guided along the platform base in the lateral direction and a connection point rotatably coupled to a connection point of the first longitudinal element about a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation, wherein the connection point of the second longitudinal element is arranged between the first end and an opposite second end of the second longitudinal element, and wherein the connection point of the first longitudinal element is arranged between the first end and an opposite second end of the first longitudinal element. The first and second axes of rotation are, in particular, perpendicular to the lateral direction. The lifting arrangement further comprises a drive device, in particular an extendable arrangement, such as...B. a hydraulic cylinder coupled to the second longitudinal element and a structure fixedly spaced with respect to the first axis of rotation (R1), such that the drive device is configured to vary a distance between the first end of the first longitudinal element and the second end of the second longitudinal element in the lateral direction in order to raise or lower the second ends of the first and second longitudinal elements relative to the platform base in the vertical direction, wherein the second ends of the first and second longitudinal elements are coupled to at least one of the first and second fork arms. The drive device can, for example, be coupled to the first longitudinal element between its second end and the connection point of the first longitudinal element, and to the second longitudinal element between the first and the connection point of the second longitudinal element.The lifting device, as described above, is a scissor-like mechanism oriented laterally. To raise the fork arm, the distance between the first end of the first longitudinal element and the first end of the second longitudinal element is reduced; to lower the fork arm, the distance between the first end of the first longitudinal element and the first end of the second longitudinal element is increased. This configuration offers the advantage of being very compact and allowing for space-saving mounting on the platform base. Furthermore, it is designed to lift very heavy loads.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the platform base comprises a plurality of coupling interfaces formed on a top surface of the platform base and configured to engage with corresponding platform coupling interfaces of the upper body structure. This allows a defined position of the upper body structure relative to the platform base to be easily achieved.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the coupling interfaces are designed as connecting pins that are designed to receive connecting holes which form the platform coupling interfaces.

[0020] According to some embodiments, each connecting hole is provided with a movable locking pin designed to lock the connecting pin within the connecting hole.

[0021] According to some embodiments, each locking pin and the corresponding connecting pin together form a switchable magnetic lock, wherein each locking pin has a permanent magnet and each connecting pin is designed as a rotatable permanent magnet for switching the magnetic lock. In this embodiment, the connection between the upper body structure and the platform base is realized by a very simple and interference-resistant, yet effective, magnetic locking system, which can, for example, be integrated into connecting holes within the upper body structure. Equally, however, a corresponding magnetic locking system can also be used to fix the upper body structure to the fork arms by means of the fork arm engagement structure and the engagement structure of the fork arm.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the vehicle platform further comprises at least one support leg designed to extend laterally from the lateral side of the platform base to stabilize the vehicle platform against tipping on the ground. For example, two or more support legs may be provided, spaced apart along the longitudinal direction. The support leg improves the stability of the vehicle platform against tipping and rolling over, further facilitating loading and unloading.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the platform base includes an electrical interface configured for electrical connection with an electrical platform connection interface of the upper body structure. For example, the electrical connection interface of the platform may be a socket or a plug having a variety of electrical contact structures, such as pins. This design simplifies the electrical connection between the platform and the upper body structure. In particular, the electrical connection can be established automatically by simply placing the upper body structure onto the platform base.

[0024] The features, technical effects and advantages described in connection with one aspect of the invention are also disclosed for the other aspects of the invention and vice versa. Brief description of the characters

[0025] For a better understanding of the present invention and its advantages, reference is made to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic figures. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In the figures, identical reference numerals denote identical or functionally equivalent components, unless otherwise indicated. Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a modular motor vehicle with a vehicle platform that can be fitted with a purpose-built upper body structure; Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a vehicle platform according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view along a lateral direction of the vehicle platform. Fig. 2, also showing an upper body structure that can be loaded onto the vehicle platform; Fig. Figure 4 shows a top view along a vertical direction of the vehicle platform. Fig. 2, wherein the fork arms of the vehicle platform are shown in a retracted position; Fig. Figure 5 shows a top view along a vertical direction of the vehicle platform of Fig. 2, where the fork arms of the vehicle platform are shown in an extended position; Fig. Figure 6 schematically shows a side view of a lifting arrangement of a lifting mechanism of a vehicle platform according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. Figure 7 shows another side view of the lifting device. Fig. 6; Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 to Fig. Figure 12 shows successive steps of a charging process using the vehicle platform. Fig. 2; Fig. 13 shows a flowchart of a procedure for loading and unloading an upper body structure onto and from a vehicle platform; Fig. Figure 14 schematically shows a magnetic locking system of a vehicle platform according to an embodiment of the invention; and Fig. Figure 15 shows the locking system of Fig. 14 in a locked state.

[0026] Although specific embodiments are illustrated and described herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that a multitude of alternative and / or equivalent implementations can be used instead of the illustrated and described specific embodiments without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. In general, this application is intended to cover all adaptations or variants of the specific embodiments described herein. Detailed description of implementation examples

[0027] Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a modular motor vehicle 200 with a vehicle platform 100, which can be equipped with an upper body structure 210 by loading the upper body structure 210 onto the vehicle platform 100 in a movement of the body structure 210 along a lateral direction Y, as shown in Fig. 1 is symbolically indicated by the arrow A1. The vehicle 200, for example, could be a purpose-built vehicle (PBV) that is modularly constructed from two main parts: the vehicle platform 100, or skateboard, and the upper body structure 210, or hat. The vehicle platform 100 represents the common underpinnings of the PBV 200, comprising a chassis, a powertrain, an electric battery, and so on. The upper body structure 210, on the other hand, can come in various versions that fulfill different purposes depending on customer needs, e.g., freight transport such as last-mile delivery or similar, passenger transport such as autonomous shuttle services, buses, taxis, and so on.

[0028] In the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 1. The vehicle platform 100 is generally U-shaped, while the upper body structure 210 is complementary in shape. It goes without saying that the shape and configuration shown is merely an example. Other shapes and configurations are of course possible, e.g., a flat vehicle platform 100 with a box-shaped upper body structure 210 on top of it.

[0029] Fig. Figure 2 shows an example perspective view of the vehicle platform 100. Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view of the vehicle platform 100. Fig. 2. The Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows top views of the vehicle platform 100 of the Fig. 2. The vehicle platform 100 comprises a platform base 1 and a loading system 2 for lateral loading and unloading of the upper body structure 210 onto and from the platform base 1 or the vehicle platform 100.

[0030] As explained above and in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the platform base 1 can generally be U-shaped or have another external shape. The platform base 1 includes a receiving section 5 for receiving the upper body structure 210 to be placed. The receiving section 5 can, for example, have a top surface 10a in the form of a substantially flat surface, as shown in Figure 1. Fig. 2 shown. Furthermore, the receiving section 5 can optionally include ramps 51, 52 extending from the top 10a at opposite ends. In general, the platform base 1 extends along a longitudinal direction Y between opposite first and second ends 1A, 1B and has first and second lateral sides 1C, 1D extending between the first and second ends 1A, 1B and opposite each other with respect to a lateral direction X. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the platform base 1 can thus have a substantially rectangular perimeter. The lateral direction X extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction Y. A vertical direction Z extends perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction Y and the lateral direction X.

[0031] As in Fig. Although Figure 2 is only shown schematically, the platform base 1 can optionally have a variety of coupling interfaces 10. As shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As can be best seen in Figure 5, the coupling interfaces 10 are arranged within the receiving section 5 and can, for example, be formed on the upper surface 10a of the platform base 1. For example, two pairs of coupling interfaces 10 can be provided, spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction Y, with the coupling interfaces 10 of one pair being spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction X. Of course, a different number and positioning of the coupling interfaces 10 is also possible. In general, the coupling interfaces 10 can be distributed over the upper surface such that they are preferably spaced apart in the lateral direction X and in the longitudinal direction Y.

[0032] The coupling interfaces 10 can, for example, be designed as connecting pins 11 that protrude from the top surface 10a of the platform base 10, as shown in Fig. 3 schematically represented. As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 3, the upper body structure 210 can have platform coupling interfaces 230 in the form of connecting holes 231 in which the connecting pins 11 can be received. However, other configurations are also possible. In general, the coupling interfaces 10 are designed to engage in corresponding platform coupling interfaces 230 of the upper body structure 210.

[0033] The coupling interfaces 10 serve to facilitate the positioning of the upper body structure 210 and to hold the upper body structure in position relative to the platform base 1. To further improve the connection between the platform base 1 and the upper body structure 210, a locking system can be used, which is located in the Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 is shown schematically. As in the Fig. 14 and Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the connecting holes 231 of the upper body structure 210 can be provided with a locking pin 232, which is positioned between an open position ( Fig. 14), in which it is withdrawn from the connecting hole 231, and a locking position in which it protrudes into the connecting hole ( Fig. 15), is movable. The connecting pin 11 may have an undercut 12. When the connecting pin 11 is inserted into the connecting hole 231, the locking pin 232 is moved into its locking position to engage in the undercut 12 of the connecting pin, thereby locking the connecting pin 11 in the connecting hole 231. Thus, the locking pin 232 is configured to lock the connecting pin 11 in the connecting hole 231.

[0034] As in the Fig. 14 and Fig. As shown symbolically in Figure 15, the connecting pin 11 can be designed as a rotatable permanent magnet 13. The locking pin 232, on the other hand, can also be provided with an integrated permanent magnet 233. To lock the connecting pin 11 to the connecting hole 231, the rotatable permanent magnet 13 of the connecting pin 11 is rotated 180° after the connecting pin 11 has been inserted into the connecting hole 231, in order to align the magnetic poles of the rotatable permanent magnet 13 so that the movable locking pin 232 is magnetically attracted to the connecting pin 11. The connecting pin 11 can be rotatably attached to the platform base 1. In particular, it can be provided that the connecting pin 11 is rotatable by an actuator (not shown), whereby the connecting pin 11 is freely rotatable when the actuator is deactivated.In this context, it is advantageous if the magnet 233 of the locking pin 232 is aligned so that the magnet 13 of the connecting pin 11 is rotated so that it engages with the locking pin 232.

[0035] As especially in the Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. As further shown in Figure 5, the platform base 1 optionally includes an electrical interface 15 designed for electrical connection to an electrical platform connection interface 245 of the upper body structure 210. As shown in Figure 5, the platform base 1 optionally includes an electrical interface 15 designed for electrical connection to an electrical platform connection interface 245 of the upper body structure 210. Fig. As shown schematically in Figure 3, the electrical interface 15 can be implemented as a plug protruding from the top 10a of the platform base 10. However, it would also be possible to implement the electrical interface 15 as a socket or similar. In general, the electrical interface 15 can include electrical contact structures (not shown) such as pins or similar.

[0036] Referring again to the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. 5, the loading system 2 of the vehicle platform 100 comprises a first fork arm 20A, a second fork arm 20B and a lifting mechanism 3. As shown from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the lifting mechanism 3 can have a first lifting arrangement 3A for moving the first fork arm 20A in the vertical direction Z and a second lifting arrangement 3B for moving the second fork arm 20B in the vertical direction Z. However, it would also be possible to provide a single lifting arrangement for both the first and second fork arms 20A, 20B. The lifting mechanism 3 is explained in more detail below.

[0037] The first fork arm 20A and the second fork arm 20B are designed to support the upper body structure 210 with respect to the vertical direction Z and to move the upper body structure 210, particularly in the lateral direction X. The lifting mechanism 3 is coupled to the first and second fork arms 20A, 20B and is designed to move the fork arms 20A, 20B in the vertical direction Z.

[0038] The fork arms 20A, 20B can, for example, be designed as extendable, telescopic arms, as in the Fig. 2, Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 illustrates this by way of example. Each fork arm 20A, 20B can, for instance, comprise a guide rail 22A, 22B, a support rail assembly with at least one support rail 23A, 23B guided on the guide rail 22A, 22B, and a fork arm rail 24A, 24B guided on a support rail 23A, 23B of the support rail assembly. The support rail 23A, 23B is movable along the guide rail 22A, 22B, and the fork arm rail 24A, 24B is movable along the support rail 23A, 23B. This allows the fork arm 20A, 20B to be extended linearly. However, the fork arms 20A, 20B can also have a different configuration, e.g., with only the fork arm rail 24A, 24B.

[0039] The fork arms 20A, 20B are coupled to the platform base 1, e.g. via the lifting mechanism 3. As shown in the Fig. 2, Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown by way of example in Figure 5, the fork arms 20A are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction Y and oriented such that they extend in the lateral direction. The first fork arm 20A can, for example, be located in the region of the first end 1A of the platform base 1 and the second fork arm 20B in the region of the second end 1B of the platform base 1. In particular, the top surface 10a of the platform base with the coupling interfaces 10 can be located between the fork arms 20A, 20B with respect to the longitudinal direction Y, as shown by way of example in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. 5 shown. In detail, as exemplified in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. Figure 5 shows that the fork arms 20A, 20B are arranged at an upper end side of the ramps 51, 52.

[0040] Furthermore, the fork arms 20A, 20B are movable either independently of each other or together along the lateral direction X relative to the platform base 1. An actuator or fork arm drive device (not shown) can be provided to move the fork arms 20A, 20B, e.g., a spindle drive, a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, or similar. Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 5 shows, by way of example, the fork arms 20A, 20B in an extended position, in which the fork arms 20A, 20B project in lateral direction X from a lateral side 1C, 1D of the platform base 1. Fig. Figure 4 shows the fork arms 20A, 20B in a position where they completely overlap the platform base 1. The fork arms 20A, 20B are therefore linearly movable between the retracted and extended positions. Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 5 shows, by way of example, the first and second fork arms 20A, 20B in an extended position, in which they project from or extend beyond the second lateral side 1D of the platform base 1. Optionally, the first and second fork arms 20A, 20B are not only movable in the direction of one lateral side 1C, 1D. Rather, the fork arms 20A, 20B can be moved between the retracted position and a first extended position, in which the fork arms 20A, 20B project in the lateral direction X from the first lateral side 1C of the platform base 1, and between the retracted position and a second extended position, in which the fork arms 20A, 20B project in the lateral direction X from a second lateral side 1D of the platform base 1.

[0041] As in the Fig. 2, Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown schematically in Figure 5, the first and second fork arms 20A, 20B can each have at least one engagement structure 21A, 21B, which is designed to engage in a corresponding fork arm engagement structure 221 of the upper body structure 210. As shown in the Fig. 2, Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, each fork arm 20A, 20B can, for example, comprise two engagement structures 21A, 21B, which are spaced apart from each other. Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows that the engagement structures 21A, 21B of the fork arms 20A, 20B can be formed, for example, by a pin that is formed from the respective fork arm 20A, 20B, in particular from a bearing surface of the fork arm rail 24A, 24B ( Fig. 5), stands out. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the fork arm engagement structure 221 of the upper body structure 210 can be a hole in this example. Of course, it would also be possible to realize the engagement structures 21A, 21B of the fork arms 20A, 20B as recesses formed in the respective fork arms 20A, 20B, and to realize the fork arm engagement structure 221 as pins.

[0042] In Fig. Figure 3 shows the lifting mechanism in a purely schematic representation. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3 and mentioned above, the lifting mechanism 3 can comprise a first lifting assembly 3A coupled to the first fork arm 20A, and a second lifting assembly 3B coupled to the second fork arm 20B. Each lifting assembly 3A, 3B is also coupled to the platform base 1. Thus, the lifting mechanism 3 is coupled to the platform base 1 and the first and second fork arms 20A, 20B. As shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As exemplified in Figure 3, the lifting arrangements 3A, 3B can be arranged in a chamber 16A, 16B which forms a recess in the platform base 1 with respect to the vertical direction Z and extends in the lateral direction X.

[0043] The Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows a possible configuration of a lifting arrangement, which can form the first and / or second lifting arrangement 3A, 3B. As in Fig. As shown schematically in Figure 6, the lifting arrangement 3A, 3B can comprise a first longitudinal element 31, a second longitudinal element 32, and a drive device 33. The first and second longitudinal elements 31, 32 can be, for example, metallic rods or profiles. Each longitudinal element 31, 32 extends, preferably in a straight line, between a first end 31A, 32A and a second end 31B, 32B. The drive device 33 can, in particular, be extendable. The drive device 33 can, for example, be a spindle drive, a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, a linear motor, or the like. This is shown by way of example only. Fig. 6 schematically a hydraulic cylinder.

[0044] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the first end 31A of the first longitudinal element 31 is rotatable about a first axis of rotation R1 on the platform base 1, e.g., via a first pivot bearing 34. The first axis of rotation R1 is preferably orthogonal to the lateral direction X and remains fixed relative to the platform base 1. The second end 31B of the first longitudinal element 31 can, for example, be coupled to the respective fork arm 20A, 20B. The second end 31B of the first longitudinal element 31 can, for example, be coupled to a first coupling bearing 35, which is guided linearly along the fork arm 20A, 20B, in particular along the guide rail 22A, 22B of the fork arm 20A, 20B. The first coupling bearing 35 can, for example, define an axis of rotation R35 parallel to the first axis of rotation R1.

[0045] The first end 32A of the second longitudinal element 32 is guided movably on the platform base 1 along the lateral direction X. For example, a second rotary bearing 36 can be guided linearly along the lateral direction X on the platform base 1 and defines a rotation axis R36 parallel to the first rotation axis R1, wherein the first end 32A of the second longitudinal element 32 is rotatable about the rotation axis R36. The second end 32B of the second longitudinal element 32 is coupled to the respective fork arm 20A, 20B, e.g., to the guide rail 22A, 22B of the fork arm 20A, 20B. In particular, the second end 32B of the second longitudinal element 32 can be coupled to the fork arm 20A, 20B via a pivot bearing 37 fixedly attached to the fork arm 20A, 20B, wherein the second end 32B of the second longitudinal element 32 is rotatable about an axis of rotation R37 defined by the pivot bearing 37 and parallel to the first axis of rotation R1.

[0046] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 6, a connection point 32C of the second longitudinal element 32 is rotatably coupled to a connection point 31C of the first longitudinal element 31. The connection points 31C, 32C of the first and second longitudinal elements 31, 32 are thus rotatable about a second axis of rotation R2, which runs parallel to the first axis of rotation R1. The connection point 32C of the second longitudinal element 32 is located between the first end 32A and the second end 32B of the second longitudinal element 32. The connection point 31C of the first longitudinal element 31 is located between the first end 32A and the second end 32B of the first longitudinal element 31.

[0047] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6 as an example, the drive device 33 can be coupled to the second longitudinal element 32 between the first end 32A of the second longitudinal element 32 and the connection point 32C of the second longitudinal element 32, and to the first longitudinal element 31 between the second end 31A of the first longitudinal element 31 and the connection point 31C of the first longitudinal element 31. When the drive device 33 extends, the distance between the first end 31A of the first longitudinal element 31 and the second end 32B of the second longitudinal element 32 increases, as does the distance between the first end 32A of the second longitudinal element 32 and the second end 31B of the first longitudinal element 31.On the other hand, when the drive device 33 extends, the distance between the first end 31A of the first longitudinal element 31 and the first end 31B of the second longitudinal element 32 decreases, as does the distance between the second end 32B of the second longitudinal element 32 and the second end 31B of the first longitudinal element 31.

[0048] Alternatively, it would also be possible to couple the drive device 33 directly to the platform base 1 and, for example, to any point on the second longitudinal element 32. In general, the drive device 33 can be coupled to the second longitudinal element 32 and a structure fixedly spaced with respect to the first axis of rotation R1, such that the drive device is configured to vary the distance between the first end 31A of the first longitudinal element 31 and the second end 32A of the second longitudinal element 32 in the lateral direction X in order to raise or lower the second ends 31B, 32B of the first and second longitudinal elements 31, 32 relative to the platform base 1 in the vertical direction Z.

[0049] In Fig. Figure 6 shows a side view of the lifting arrangement 3A, 3B with a viewing direction along the first axis of rotation R1. Fig. Figure 7 shows a side view of the lifting arrangement 3A, 3B with a viewing direction perpendicular to the first axis of rotation R1. As in Fig. As shown by way of example in Figure 7, the lifting arrangement 3A, 3B can comprise a pair of first longitudinal elements 31 and a pair of second longitudinal elements 32 in the arrangement described above, wherein the first longitudinal elements 31 and the second longitudinal elements 32 are parallel. As shown in Fig. As further shown in Figure 7, the first longitudinal elements 31 can be coupled to each other by a first bridge 38, and the second longitudinal elements 32 can be coupled to each other by a second bridge 39. The first bridge 38 can be arranged between the connection points 31C and the second ends 31B of the first longitudinal element 31. The second bridge 39 can be arranged between the connection points 32C and the first ends 32A of the second longitudinal element 32. As shown in Fig. As further shown in Figure 7, the drive device 33 can be coupled to the first and second bridge 38, 39.

[0050] As especially in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the vehicle platform 100 can optionally include at least one support leg 4A, 4B. For example, the vehicle platform 100 can include a first support leg 4A located in the region of the first end 1A of the platform base 1, and a second support leg 4B located in the region of the second end 1B of the platform base 1. The support legs 4A, 4B are designed to extend in the lateral direction X. That is, the support legs 4A, 4B are movable along the lateral direction X into an extended position so that they project from the lateral side 1C, 1D of the platform base 1, as shown, for example, in Figure 3. Fig. Figure 2 shows that the support legs 4A and 4B can also be extended along the vertical direction Z so that they touch the ground or the surface to stabilize the vehicle platform 100 against tipping. Optionally, the support legs 4A and 4B can be extended from both lateral sides 1C and 1D of the platform base 1.

[0051] The Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 to Fig. Figure 12 shows an exemplary method for loading the upper body structure 210 onto the vehicle platform 100. Fig. Figure 13 shows a flowchart of a process M for loading and unloading an upper body structure 210 onto and from a vehicle platform 100 of a motor vehicle 200. This process M can be used in the Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 to Fig. 12 of the methods shown include or are part of them. Therefore, method M will be referred to below with reference to the Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 to Fig. 12 and on Fig. 13 explained. Since the procedure M can be carried out using the vehicle platform 100 explained above, reference is made below to the section on Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 to Fig. 7 vehicle platform 100 is referenced.

[0052] Fig. Figure 8 shows a state in which the vehicle platform 100 has been parked relative to the upper body structure 210 such that the body structure 210 is positioned adjacent to one of the lateral sides 1C, 1D with respect to the lateral direction X. Subsequently, the support legs 4A, 4B are optionally extended to stand on the ground in order to further stabilize the vehicle platform 100 ( Fig. 9).

[0053] Furthermore, the fork arms 20A, 20B are engaged with the upper body structure 210 in step M1 of the process M. In the process described in the Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 to Fig. The charging process shown in Figure 12 may involve moving the fork arms 20A, 20B into their extended position, as shown in Fig. 9 is symbolically represented by the arrow A9, such that the lifting arms 20A, 20B are positioned below the upper body structure 210, and the fork arms 20A, 20B are raised in the vertical direction Z by means of the lifting mechanism 3 until the optional engagement structures 21A, 21B of the fork arms 20A, 20B engage with the fork arm engagement structures 221 of the upper body structure 210. During the unloading process, step M1 can only include raising the fork arms 20A, 20B in the vertical direction Z until they engage with the upper body structure 210, e.g., until the optional engagement structures 21A, 21B of the fork arms 20A, 20B engage with the fork arm engagement structures 221 of the upper body structure 210.

[0054] In a further step M2 of the procedure, the upper body structure 210 is raised by moving the first and second fork arms 20A, 20B in the vertical direction Z relative to the platform base 1 by means of the lifting mechanism 3, as shown in Fig. 10 is symbolically represented by the arrow A10. In this step, the upper body structure 210 is lifted from the ground during the loading process. In the unloading process, the upper body structure 210 is lifted from the platform base 1 in this step.

[0055] In process step M3, the fork arms 20A, 20B are moved in the lateral direction X across their respective transverse sides 1C, 1D of the platform base 1. During the Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 to Fig. In step 12 of the charging process shown, the fork arms are moved into their retracted position in this step M3, as shown in Fig. 11 is symbolically represented by the arrow A11. The upper body structure 210 is moved linearly into the receiving section 5 of the platform base 1, specifically into a position above the top surface 10. During an unloading process, the fork arms 20A, 20B would be moved into their extended positions, thus moving the upper body structure 210 into a position to the side of the platform base 1.

[0056] In a further step M4 of the process M, the upper body structure 210 is lowered by moving the first and second fork arms 20A, 20B in the vertical direction Z relative to the platform base 1 by means of the lifting mechanism 3, as shown in Fig.12 is symbolically represented by the arrow A12. During the charging process, in this step M4, the coupling interfaces 10 of the platform base 1 are brought into engagement with the platform coupling interfaces 230 of the upper body structure 210. Optionally, the electrical interface 15 of the platform base 1 is also connected to the electrical platform connection interface 245 of the upper body structure 210.

[0057] In the detailed description above, various features are summarized in one or more examples to simplify the disclosure. It is understood that the above description serves for illustration and is not limiting. Reference list 1 Platform base 1A first end of the platform base 1B second end of the platform base 1C first lateral side of the platform base 1D second lateral side of the platform base 2 charging systems 3 Lifting mechanism 3A, 3B Lifting arrangements 4A, 4B Support legs 5 Recording section 10 Coupling interface of the platform base 10a Top of the platform base 11 Connecting pin 12 Undercut 13 Permanent magnet 15 electrical interface 16A, 16B chambers 20A, 20B Fork arms 21A, 21B Intervention structure 22A, 22B Guide rail 23A, 23B mounting rail 24A, 24B Fork arm rail 31 first longitudinal element 31A first end of the first longitudinal element 31B second end of the first longitudinal element 31C Connection point of the first longitudinal element 32 second longitudinal element 32A first end of the second longitudinal element 32B second end of the second longitudinal element 32C Connection point of the second longitudinal element 33 Drive device 34 first pivot bearing 35 first coupling bearing 36 second pivot bearing 37 second coupling bearing 38 first bridge 39 second bridge 51, 52 ramps 100 vehicle platforms 200 vehicles 210 upper body structure 211 Fork arm engagement structure 221 Fork arm engagement structure 230 Platform coupling interface 231 Connecting hole 232 Safety pin 233 Permanent magnet 245 electrical platform connection interface A1 Arrow A9-A12 Arrows M procedure M1-M4 process steps X lateral direction Y Longitudinal direction Z vertical direction

Claims

[1] Vehicle platform (100) for a motor vehicle (200), comprising: a platform base (1) extending in a longitudinal direction (Y); and A loading system (2) for laterally loading and unloading an upper body structure (210) onto and from the platform base (1), wherein the loading system (2) comprises a first fork arm (20A) and a second fork arm (20B) for supporting the upper body structure (210) with respect to a vertical direction (Z) and a lifting mechanism (3) coupled to the platform base (1) and the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B), wherein the lifting mechanism (3) is configured to move the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) relative to the platform base (1) along the vertical direction (Z), wherein the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) are positioned spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (Y) and each along a lateral direction (X) between a retracted position in which the fork arms (20A, 20B) completely overlap with the platform base (1) and a are movable in the extended position in which the fork arms (20A,20B) project in the lateral direction (X) from a lateral side (1C, 1D) of the platform base (1), wherein the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) each have at least one engagement structure (21A, 21B) designed to engage in a corresponding fork arm engagement structure (221) of the upper body structure (210), and wherein the at least one engagement structure (21A, 21B) of the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) is formed by a pin projecting from the respective fork arm (20A, 20B) or by a recess formed in the respective fork arm (20A, 20B). [2] Vehicle platform (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) are movable between the retracted position and a first extended position in which the fork arms (20A, 20B) project in the lateral direction (X) from a first lateral side (1C) of the platform base (1), and between the retracted position and a second extended position in which the fork arms (20A, 20B) project in the lateral direction (X) from a second lateral side (1D) of the platform base (1). [3] Vehicle platform (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second fork arm (20A, 20B) are each designed as a telescopic arm. [4] Vehicle platform (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting mechanism (3) comprises at least one lifting arrangement (3A, 3B) which includes: a first longitudinal element (31) with a first end (31A) which is coupled to the platform base (1) in such a way that it is rotatable about a first axis of rotation (R1), a second longitudinal element (32) with a first end (32A) which is movably guided on the platform base (1) along the lateral direction (X), and a connection point (32C) which is rotatably coupled to a connection point (31C) of the first longitudinal element (31) about a second axis of rotation (R2) parallel to the first axis of rotation (R1), wherein the connection point (32C) of the second longitudinal element (32) is positioned between the first end (32A) and an opposite second end (32B) of the second longitudinal element (32), and wherein the connection point (31C) of the first longitudinal element (31) is positioned between the first end (32A) and an opposite second end (32B) of the first longitudinal element (31), and a drive device (33), in particular an extendable arrangement such as a hydraulic cylinder, which is coupled to the second longitudinal element (32) and a structure spaced at a fixed distance with respect to the first axis of rotation (R1), such that the drive device is configured to vary a distance between the first end (31A) of the first longitudinal element (31) and the second end (32A) of the second longitudinal element (32) in the lateral direction (X) in order to raise or lower second ends (31B, 32B) of the first and second longitudinal element elements (31, 32) relative to the platform base (1) in the vertical direction (Z), wherein the second ends (31B, 32B) of the first and second longitudinal elements (31, 32) are coupled to at least one of the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B). [5] Vehicle platform (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting mechanism (3) comprises a first lifting arrangement (3A) coupled to the first fork arm (20A) and a second lifting arrangement (3B) coupled to the second fork arm (20B). [6] Vehicle platform (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the platform base (1) has a plurality of coupling interfaces (10) formed on a top surface (10a) of the platform base (1) and configured to engage with corresponding platform coupling interfaces (230) of the upper body structure (210). [7] Vehicle platform (100) according to claim 6, wherein the coupling interfaces (10) are designed as connecting pins (11) which are designed to receive connecting holes (231) which form the platform coupling interfaces (230). [8] Vehicle platform (100) according to claim 7, wherein each connecting hole (231) is provided with a movable locking pin (232) designed to lock the connecting pin (11) inside the connecting hole (231). [9] Vehicle platform (100) according to claim 8, wherein each locking pin (232) and the corresponding connecting pin (11) together form a switchable magnetic lock, wherein each locking pin (232) has a permanent magnet (233) and each connecting pin (11) is designed as a rotatable permanent magnet for switching the magnetic lock. [10] Vehicle platform (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: at least one support leg (4A, 4B) designed to extend in the lateral direction (X) from the lateral side (1C, 1D) of the platform base (1) to stabilize the vehicle platform (100) on the ground against tipping. [11] Vehicle platform (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the platform base (1) has an electrical interface (15) designed for electrical connection with an electrical platform connection interface (245) of the upper body structure (210). [12] Motor vehicle (200) with a vehicle platform (100) according to one of the preceding claims. [13] Method (M) for loading and unloading an upper body structure (210) onto and from a vehicle platform (100) of a motor vehicle (200) according to claim 12, wherein the method (M) comprises: Engaging (M1) first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) coupled to a platform base (1) of the vehicle platform (100) with the upper body structure (210), wherein the platform base (1) extends in a longitudinal direction (Y); Lifting (M2) the upper body structure (210) by moving the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) in a vertical direction (Z) relative to the platform base (1) by means of a lifting mechanism (3) coupled to the platform base (1) and the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B); Moving (M3) the fork arms (20A, 20B) in a lateral direction (X) over a lateral side (1C, 1D) of the platform base (1); and Lowering (M4) the upper body structure (210) by moving the first and second fork arms (20A, 20B) in the vertical direction (Z) relative to the platform base (1) by means of the lifting mechanism (3).

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