Sliding doors and openable side tarpaulin wall system

Abstract

Sliding cleat for an openable side tarpaulin wall system (10) for a commercial vehicle (11), comprising a sliding body (12a) with an upper end (12b) and with a lower end (12c), wherein the upper end (12b) of the sliding stanchion body (12a) comprises a stanchion suspension device (13), wherein the stake suspension device (13) is displaceable along a first chamber (14a) of a longitudinal beam (14), wherein the sliding element (12) has at least a guide element (30) at least in sections, which extends from the edge of the sliding element body (12a), and wherein the guide element (30) is oriented outwards in a direction away from the commercial vehicle (11), characterized by that the guide element (30) is designed as a bend (31) of the sliding body (12a), that the guide element (30) has a triangular cross-section enclosing a cavity (H), that the bent guide element (30) has a bent section with an outwardly facing smooth front surface (30a), which bent section is arranged spaced apart from the sliding body (12a) by a slot, that the stake suspension device (13) projects laterally towards the sliding stake body (12a), and that the guide element (30) projects laterally towards the stake suspension device (13).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a sliding mechanism for an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention further relates to an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle according to the preamble of claim 7.

[0002] In practice, a wide variety of solutions and configurations are known for side curtain wall systems for commercial vehicles. Commercial vehicles, such as trucks, trailers, and semi-trailers, primarily serve to transport goods and merchandise on public roads. For this purpose, commercial vehicles include a cargo area designed to hold the goods and merchandise being transported. This cargo area is typically equipped with a side curtain wall system along its sides.

[0003] The side curtain wall system of a commercial vehicle primarily serves to protect cargo from rain, dirt, weather, and other lateral influences. Furthermore, the side curtain wall system must ensure cargo security, particularly during driving, for example, when cornering or during emergency braking. This means the side curtain wall system must always be able to withstand a defined horizontal force, such as that exerted by cargo shifting within the cargo area.

[0004] Furthermore, a side curtain wall system should ideally have a low tarpaulin weight to ensure economical and energy-efficient transport. Another important aspect is the ability to open and close the side curtain wall system quickly to minimize downtime for loading and unloading. Ideally, the side curtain wall system should also provide the largest possible opening to the cargo area, allowing for virtually unobstructed loading and unloading of goods.

[0005] DE 10 2017 126 055 A1 discloses an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle. The openable side tarpaulin wall system comprises a side tarpaulin that at least partially closes a side opening of the commercial vehicle and is suspended by tarpaulin suspension devices that are movable along a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform. The side tarpaulin has at least one edge-side connection element, which is connected to a corresponding element of a corner post. The connection element of the side tarpaulin includes a keder that is inserted into a keder rail, which is designed as a corresponding element of the corner post. The side tarpaulin also has straps. A disadvantage of the side tarpaulin wall system is that the side tarpaulin can only be moved along the longitudinal beam by means of tarpaulin suspension devices.The side tarpaulin has tensioning elements along its lower horizontal edge that engage with the loading platform. Opening and closing the side tarpaulin therefore always requires operating these tensioning elements, making the process time-consuming. Furthermore, a side tarpaulin that is at least partially open is not fixed or tensioned along its lower edge, meaning it can shift uncontrollably.

[0006] DE 10 2006 043 655 A1 discloses a generic, openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle. The side tarpaulin wall system comprises at least one sliding post with a post suspension device that can be moved along a chamber of a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform. The side tarpaulin wall system further comprises a side tarpaulin that at least partially closes a lateral opening of the commercial vehicle. The side tarpaulin has connecting elements that are connected to a counterpart element of the sliding post. This counterpart element comprises a keder rail with a groove in which the connecting element of the side tarpaulin, designed as a keder, is inserted. Furthermore, the side tarpaulin is attached exclusively to the sliding posts. A disadvantage is that the side tarpaulin is only attached to the sliding posts or corner posts, so that almost the entire weight of the side tarpaulin is borne by the sliding posts.This type of fastening leads to a shortened product lifespan for the side tarpaulin, which is constantly subjected to high stress. Furthermore, there is a problem with sealing against rainwater, meltwater, and dirt in one area of ​​the roof of the commercial vehicle, as the side tarpaulin is not connected to the longitudinal beam. In addition, the side tarpaulin is attached to a tensioning edge of the loading platform using tensioning elements in one area, making opening and closing the side tarpaulin time-consuming.

[0007] DE 20 2013 006 707 U1 discloses a tarpaulin for a commercial vehicle, which is attached to a roof cover frame of the commercial vehicle. The tarpaulin can be used either for a side tarpaulin wall system or a roof tarpaulin wall system of the commercial vehicle. The corresponding side tarpaulin wall system comprises at least one sliding post that can be moved along a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform. Furthermore, the side tarpaulin wall system comprises at least one tarpaulin segment that at least partially closes a side opening of the commercial vehicle. The tarpaulin segment has at least one edge-side connection element, which is designed as a keder. The keder of the tarpaulin segment is connected to a corresponding element of the sliding post, which is designed as a keder rail.

[0008] WO 2017 / 214 689 A1 describes an opening side curtain wall system for a commercial vehicle. The side curtain wall system comprises at least one sliding post with a post suspension device that can be moved along a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform. The side curtain wall system also includes a side curtain that at least partially closes a lateral opening of the commercial vehicle. Furthermore, the sliding posts have sliding post carriages that can be moved along a guide rail associated with the loading platform. The side curtain is connected to the sliding posts and has an upper edge parallel to the longitudinal beam and a lower edge parallel to the loading platform. The sliding posts also have a trapezoidal cross-section, which facilitates their passage around obstacles when opening or closing the side curtain.Furthermore, folding aids for the side tarpaulin are arranged between the adjacent sliding sections. A disadvantage is that the side tarpaulin wall system features a continuous side tarpaulin, meaning that the system comprises an unnecessarily large number of components, particularly regarding the sliding sections, which increases the overall weight of the commercial vehicle. Moreover, the manufacturing and installation of the side tarpaulin wall system is time-consuming and expensive.

[0009] EP 3 284 624 A1 discloses a sliding stake for an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle. The sliding stake comprises a sliding stake body with an upper end and a lower end. The upper end of the sliding stake body includes a stake suspension device having at least two upper support rollers and at least one upper guide roller arranged between the two support rollers, which are located in a first chamber of the longitudinal beam. The stake suspension device is displaceable along a longitudinal beam of the commercial vehicle supported against a loading platform, with further guide rollers arranged in a second chamber of the longitudinal beam. The sliding stake further comprises a sliding stake carriage located at the lower end of the sliding stake body, the support and guide rollers of which also require two chambers.The sliding mechanism includes at least one lower support roller and at least one lower guide roller. A side panel of the openable side panel wall system is attached to the sliding mechanism body. A disadvantage is that the side panel wall system has a continuous side panel. This results in increased point loads on the side panel due to its own weight. In particular, high tensile forces in the direction of travel, as well as the weight of the side panel in the vertical direction, act on the side panel and / or the connecting elements during an opening or closing operation of the side panel wall system, especially in a fastening area within the sliding mechanism.

[0010] EP 2 708 395 A1 shows a sliding stake for an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, comprising a sliding stake body with an upper end and a lower end, wherein the upper end of the sliding stake body includes a stake suspension device.

[0011] DE 197 56 617 A1 discloses a sliding stake for an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, comprising a sliding stake body with an upper end and a lower end, wherein the upper end of the sliding stake body includes a stake suspension device, and wherein the stake suspension device is displaceable along a first chamber of a longitudinal beam.

[0012] EP 2 835 282 A1 discloses a sliding stake for an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, comprising a sliding stake body with an upper end and a lower end, wherein the upper end of the sliding stake body comprises a stake suspension device, wherein the stake suspension device is displaceable along a first chamber of a longitudinal beam.

[0013] DE 10 2016 103 172 A1 shows a sliding stanchion for an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, comprising a sliding stanchion body with an upper end and a lower end.

[0014] DE 20 2015 006 044 U1 shows a sliding stanchion for an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, comprising a sliding stanchion body with an upper end and a lower end.

[0015] The object of the invention is to provide a sliding door system for a commercial vehicle and an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, with which a side tarpaulin of a commercial vehicle can be opened and closed easily and reliably, and which can be manufactured cost-effectively.

[0016] This problem is solved according to the invention by a sliding mechanism with the features of independent claim 1 and by an openable side tarpaulin wall system with the features of independent claim 7.

[0017] According to the invention, a sliding stake is provided for an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, such as a truck, semi-trailer, transport vehicle, trailer, container, railcar, or the like. The sliding stake comprises a sliding stake body with an upper end and a lower end, the upper end of which includes a stake suspension device, the suspension device being displaceable along a first chamber of a longitudinal beam. The sliding stake has at least a guide element, at least partially, which extends from the edge of the sliding stake body, the guide element being oriented outwards in a direction away from, in particular, the loading platform of the commercial vehicle.The sliding stanchion is characterized by the fact that the guide element is designed as a chamfer on the sliding stanchion body, that the guide element has a triangular cross-section enclosing a cavity, that the chamfered guide element has a chamfered section with a smooth, outward-facing front surface, that this chamfered section is spaced from the sliding stanchion body by a slot, that the stanchion suspension device projects laterally beyond the sliding stanchion body, and that the guide element also projects laterally beyond the stanchion suspension device. A chamfer is easy and inexpensive to manufacture. Furthermore, a chamfer offers very good stability, so that the sliding stanchion can always be guided safely and reliably past obstacles during relocation. The guide element is advantageously compact and space-saving, being attached to the sliding stanchion body.On the one hand, a triangular shape is easy to manufacture, and on the other hand, the triangular shape allows the sliding post to be guided smoothly around obstacles like a ramp, without jamming. During repositioning, the sliding post may come into contact with a tarpaulin segment, which could roughen or chafe the tarpaulin material of the segment over time. A smooth surface offers the advantage of protecting the tarpaulin material of the segment, thus significantly increasing its lifespan.

[0018] The guide element and the sliding mechanism body are advantageously formed as a single piece. This eliminates the need for a complex assembly of a separate guide element. Furthermore, manufacturing costs are reduced. Such a one-piece component can be produced, for example, by folding a sheet of metal.

[0019] Preferably, the guide element forms at least a wing-like edge of the sliding shank body in the longitudinal direction of the sliding shank. Advantageously, the guide element frames the entire sliding shank body on both sides, so that the sliding shank can be successfully guided past an obstacle at any point, regardless of the direction of movement of the sliding shank.

[0020] The guide element should ideally have rounded and / or chamfered outer edges. Since the sliding guide can come into contact with a tarpaulin segment, it is advantageous for the outer edges of the guide element to be rounded and / or chamfered. This prevents damage to the tarpaulin material of the segment, thus ensuring increased product durability.

[0021] According to one design variant, the guide element has at least one blunt outer edge with a radius in the longitudinal direction. Advantageously, the sliding guide has no sharp or pointed outer edges, so the tarpaulin segment cannot be damaged. Therefore, reliable and safe movement of the sliding guide is ensured.

[0022] Preferably, the stake suspension device comprises at least two twin support rollers and at least one guide roller. Furthermore, the stake suspension device advantageously includes a guide roller outside the twin support rollers in the direction of travel, arranged in the first chamber. The two guide rollers advantageously ensure that the stake suspension device is always in an optimal position, so that the sliding stake is always guided without tilting within the first chamber of the longitudinal beam. Furthermore, the two twin support rollers ensure the necessary stability, so that the sliding stake can be moved safely, reliably, and quietly.

[0023] The sliding door body should ideally include at least one keder rail. The keder rail advantageously allows for quick and easy attachment and connection of, for example, a tarpaulin segment or a tensioning device, each of which has a corresponding keder.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the sliding door body has a preferably central recess into which at least one keder rail can be inserted. Furthermore, when the keder rail is inserted, an end face of the keder rail is advantageously at least largely flush with a front face of the sliding door body. The sliding door is advantageously easy to install, as the keder rail fits precisely within the recess of the sliding door. Moreover, a space-saving and compact sliding door is provided, in which the keder rail can be integrated almost invisibly. Because the sliding door and the keder rail have a flush front surface when installed, chafing of a tarpaulin segment along an unwanted edge during opening or closing is advantageously prevented.

[0025] Preferably, at least one keder rail extends over the effective height of the sliding door body. This advantageously saves or reduces material and weight, thus providing an economically viable combination of sliding door and keder rail.

[0026] According to the invention, an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, such as a truck, semi-trailer, transport vehicle, trailer, container, railcar, or the like, is provided. The openable side tarpaulin wall system comprises at least one sliding post with a sliding post body, wherein the sliding post has a post suspension device that is displaceable along a first chamber of a longitudinal beam supported against a loading platform. Furthermore, the openable side tarpaulin wall system comprises at least one tarpaulin segment that at least partially closes a lateral opening of the commercial vehicle and that is suspended via tarpaulin suspension devices that are displaceable along a second chamber of the longitudinal beam.In this system, the sliding stanchion has at least one guide element, at least in sections, which extends from the edge of the stanchion body and is oriented outwards in a direction away from the loading platform. The openable side tarpaulin wall system is characterized by the fact that the guide element is designed as a bend in the sliding stanchion body, that the guide element has a triangular cross-section enclosing a cavity, that the bent guide element has a bent section with an outwardly facing smooth front surface, that this bent section is spaced from the sliding stanchion body by a slot, that the stanchion suspension device projects laterally beyond the sliding stanchion body, and that the guide element projects laterally beyond the stanchion suspension device. A bend is easy and inexpensive to manufacture.Furthermore, the chamfered edge provides excellent stability, ensuring that the sliding rail can always be guided safely and reliably past obstacles during relocation. The guide element is advantageously compact and space-saving, being attached to the sliding rail body. On the one hand, a triangular shape is easy to manufacture, and on the other hand, this shape allows the sliding rail to be guided smoothly past obstacles like a ramp, without jamming. During relocation, the sliding rail may come into contact with a tarpaulin segment, which could roughen or chafe the tarpaulin material of the segment over time. A smooth surface offers the advantage of protecting the tarpaulin material of the segment, thus significantly increasing its lifespan.The guide elements are advantageously provided over the entire height of the sliding stake body and form a wedge-shaped element on each of its two end faces facing the direction of travel. The wedge surface of this wedge points away from the vehicle. When the sliding stake is moved, the wedge leading in the direction of travel is first moved along the load with its tip furthest from the vehicle, and then with the wedge surface adjoining the tip. In the case of an overhanging load, the guide element is successively pushed away from the vehicle by means of the wedge surface. At the same time, the stake suspension device exerts a counterforce on the load to displace it from the path of travel. This makes it advantageous to easily overcome overhanging loads without having to swing the entire sliding stake away from the vehicle like a pendulum.

[0027] Advantageously, the tarpaulin segment is positioned parallel to the front surface of the guide element when closed. The guide element provides beneficial support for the shape of the tarpaulin segment. Furthermore, this allows for optimal tensioning of the tarpaulin segment without the formation of unwanted creases. Additionally, tensile forces can be transferred evenly from the sliding rail to the tarpaulin segment and vice versa.

[0028] Preferably, the tarpaulin segment rests against the front surface when closed. The front surface of the guide element advantageously provides a support surface for the tarpaulin segment, giving it a defined shape. The tarpaulin segment is advantageously arranged with smooth, wrinkle-free edges to ensure excellent tensile force transmission. Furthermore, the guide element facilitates the uniform folding and unfolding of the tarpaulin segment, thus ensuring reliable and smooth opening and closing of the side tarpaulin wall system at all times.

[0029] Preferably, the tarpaulin segment has at least one edge-side connection element, which is connected to a corresponding counterpart element of the sliding rail. Advantageously, the tarpaulin segment can be mounted to the sliding rail simply, intuitively, and quickly. Furthermore, in the event of a defect, the tarpaulin segment can be removed from the sliding rail quickly and easily. This allows for the advantageous replacement of the tarpaulin segment only at the affected point of the side tarpaulin wall system, thus eliminating the need for a time-consuming and costly replacement of the entire side tarpaulin.

[0030] The connecting element is conveniently designed as a keder (seam). A keder connection offers a simple and immediately understandable solution for mounting and dismounting a tarpaulin segment. Keders are cost-effective and can be manufactured in many variations. One advantage of a keder connection is that tensile force is distributed evenly across the entire keder rail, preventing any point loads that could eventually damage the tarpaulin segment. Consequently, the tarpaulin segment has a longer product lifespan.

[0031] To simplify installation, the keder is preferably designed as a zip-lock keder strip. A zip-lock keder strip makes it easier to thread the tarpaulin segment into a keder rail at the edge.

[0032] Advantageously, the counterpart includes at least one keder rail, preferably made of aluminum. The keder rail is necessary for a keder connection, allowing the tarpaulin segment to be threaded or inserted into a groove in the keder rail at its edge. A keder connection advantageously provides a positive-locking connection through the insertion of a keder into a keder rail. Furthermore, the weight of the aluminum keder rail is significantly reduced compared to a steel one, making journeys with the commercial vehicle more economical overall. The aluminum keder rail can be easily manufactured as a continuous length by extrusion, making it extremely cost-effective.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the counter element is attached to the sliding pin. Advantageously, the counter element is a separate component, which is advantageously arranged on the sliding pin depending on the application and is attached to the sliding pin via connecting elements. This modular design offers increased ease of assembly. Furthermore, the counter element can be attached to the sliding pin quickly and easily.

[0034] Preferably, the keder rail has two parallel grooves for receiving a keder from a first tarpaulin segment and a keder from a second tarpaulin segment. One keder rail can thus accommodate two tarpaulin segments simultaneously. This advantageously promotes a compact and space-saving design. Particularly with closely spaced grooves for receiving a keder, the appearance of a continuous tarpaulin is hardly interrupted, so that the tarpaulin segments can, for example, be printed across multiple segments.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, an area of ​​the tarpaulin segment outside the edge connection elements is free of sliding joints. A first and a second tarpaulin segment are directly connected to a sliding joint via the opposing element, so that the tarpaulin segments are arranged in one plane. Viewed from the outside, the sliding joint is thus located behind the first and second tarpaulin segments. The transition from the first to the second tarpaulin segment is flush and seamless on the outer side, facing away from the commercial vehicle. This advantageously promotes a streamlined shape of the side tarpaulin, which can lead to significant energy savings.

[0036] Adjacent tarpaulin segments are expediently connected to each other via a sliding tie rod. Advantageously, a single sliding tie rod connects both the first and second tarpaulin segments. In this way, depending on the direction of travel, one sliding tie rod advantageously transmits a tensile force to both the first and second tarpaulin segments. Furthermore, a connection via only one sliding tie rod offers a space-saving and compact design for the side tarpaulin wall system.

[0037] Overall, it is advantageous that several tarpaulin segments with sliding mechanisms arranged between them form a side tarpaulin, and that the side tarpaulin can be tensioned at its ends to position the movable sliding mechanisms. The sliding mechanism and the tarpaulin segment advantageously form a single unit, allowing tensile forces to be transferred from the tarpaulin segment to the sliding mechanism, and vice versa, depending on the direction of movement. When the side tarpaulin wall system is closed, the tarpaulin segments are always taut and tightly positioned between two adjacent sliding mechanisms. As long as the side tarpaulin is tensioned at its ends, the sliding mechanisms are always moved into a specific position.

[0038] Compared to a conventional side tarpaulin, which consists of a single, continuous tarpaulin segment and must be guided past sliding or center posts fixed in the foot area, the manufacturing costs of the side tarpaulin are not significantly increased. Furthermore, the side tarpaulin can be operated similarly to a conventional side tarpaulin.

[0039] Preferably, adjacent tarpaulin segments are connected to each other via a sliding joint. Furthermore, the sliding joints are preferably repositionable when tensioning the tarpaulin segments. This advantageously promotes a compact and space-saving design of the side tarpaulin wall system. Moreover, the side tarpaulin wall system can be manufactured cost-effectively, as the number of components is reduced. Advantageously, the sliding joints are always in a defined position, thus ensuring reliable stability of the side tarpaulin wall system.

[0040] Preferably, at least one tarpaulin segment is connected to at least one sliding bar, with adjacent tarpaulin segments each being connected to one another via a sliding bar, and the sliding bars being movable into position when the tarpaulin segments are tensioned. In this way, the tarpaulin segments and the sliding bars form a force chain that, when lateral tension is applied, transmits and distributes this force to all links of the chain. This advantageously prevents different areas of the side tarpaulin from being subjected to different tensions.

[0041] Overall, it is advantageous that several tarpaulin segments together form a side tarpaulin, and that at least one edge segment can be connected to a tensioning device to secure the side tarpaulin. Several adjacent tarpaulin segments advantageously form a side tarpaulin that allows a side opening of the commercial vehicle to be completely closed. The side tarpaulin is tensioned by a tensioning device, which is advantageously located on one of the tarpaulin segments.

[0042] Preferably, when the tarpaulin is closed, the tarpaulin segments are arranged in a common vertical plane. The tarpaulin segments are advantageously flush or seamlessly aligned with one another. Furthermore, the tarpaulin segments are arranged parallel to each other. This improves the external appearance, for example, if one side of the tarpaulin is printed or coated with advertising and / or promotional material. Uniform spacing and flush tarpaulin segments contribute to an overall high-quality impression of the tarpaulin wall system.

[0043] Advantageously, when tensioning the side tarpaulin, tension is introduced into the tarpaulin segments via the sliding mechanisms. Because the sliding mechanisms effectively absorb and transfer a portion of the tensile forces, these forces are distributed evenly to the adjacent tarpaulin segments and sliding mechanisms. Consequently, the sliding mechanisms always move smoothly and without interference such as jamming, thus ensuring reliable opening and closing of the side tarpaulin. Furthermore, the tension also determines the positioning of the sliding mechanisms.

[0044] Preferably, when the side tarpaulin is opened, the sliding mechanisms of the tarpaulin segments are moved along with it. This saves a considerable amount of time during the opening process, as the sliding mechanisms move almost simultaneously with the tarpaulin segments. As a result, immediate, unobstructed lateral access to the cargo area of ​​the commercial vehicle is gained.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the tarpaulin segments are connected to each other exclusively via a counter element connected to the sliding rail, which preferably has two parallel grooves. The counter element is designed as a separate component, preferably in the form of a grooved aluminum rail as described above, which can be positioned at any desired location on the sliding rail depending on the application and connected via suitable fasteners. Advantageously, a total of two tarpaulin segments can be connected via the two parallel grooves. This offers a compact and simple solution characterized by ease of assembly. Preferably, the counter element is a single piece extending over the height of the tarpaulin segment; however, it is also possible to provide several counter element segments, preferably abutting each other, instead of a single piece.

[0046] According to a further preferred embodiment, the tarpaulin segments have a keder (or at least a predominantly continuous bead) along their edges, which is received in the mating element. Furthermore, preferably only the bead transmits the tension forces. Advantageously, uniform tension forces act on the edges of the tarpaulin segment, resulting in a wrinkle-free, closed state. In addition, the interaction between a tarpaulin segment and a sliding cleat connected to the tarpaulin segment is advantageously characterized in that any tensile or tension forces are transmitted across the entire edge-side connection between the sliding cleat and the tarpaulin segment. This prevents localized stress on the tarpaulin material of the segment and ensures that the sliding cleat can always be moved freely and upright. This promotes quiet and reliable opening and closing.Closing of the side tarpaulin and an increased product lifespan of the side tarpaulin wall system.

[0047] Adjacent tarpaulin segments are expediently connected using the same sliding joint via an edge-side connection element of the respective tarpaulin segment. This offers the advantage of a compact and space-saving design. Overall, this reduces the number of components and saves costs.

[0048] According to a further preferred embodiment, the tarpaulin segments have vertical and / or horizontal tensile reinforcements. When the side tarpaulin is opened or closed, tensile forces act on the tarpaulin segments. These tensile forces could cause overstretching of the respective tarpaulin segment. Therefore, the tensile reinforcements advantageously prevent the respective tarpaulin segment from being overstretched and thus damaged, thereby ensuring an increased product lifespan.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the sliding rail is guided at both ends without tilting. To ensure smooth and quiet opening and closing of the side panel, the sliding rail is advantageously always movable in an upright position.

[0050] According to one design variant, the tarpaulin segment includes a webbing material, at least in sections. This webbing material advantageously increases the stability of the tarpaulin segment against potential overstretching, allowing the segment to withstand higher tensile forces. Furthermore, the webbing material advantageously gives the tarpaulin segment a defined shape. During opening or closing, the tarpaulin segment is always folded or unfolded accordion-like. This ensures that the tarpaulin segment always maintains a uniform and consistent fold, thus protecting the tarpaulin material. As a result, opening and closing the side tarpaulin wall system is smooth and efficient, and the tarpaulin segment exhibits increased product durability.

[0051] Advantageously, the webbing material contains aramid fibers, at least in sections. This significantly increases the stability and tensile strength of the tarpaulin segment. The tarpaulin segment can thus advantageously absorb and transmit even higher tensile forces, enabling the side tarpaulin wall system to be used even under the highest loads. The aramid fibers are preferably woven in, at least in the end sections of the webbing material.

[0052] Preferably, the webbing material reduces the elasticity of the tarpaulin segment. Advantageously, the webbing material prevents unwanted overstretching of the tarpaulin segment, ensuring that the tarpaulin segment always maintains a precisely defined shape. Furthermore, tensile forces are predominantly transferred into the webbing material, thus preventing overstretching or even tearing of the tarpaulin material.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the webbing is sewn and / or welded to the tarpaulin segment. Sewing and / or welding offer the advantage of ensuring particularly high stability of this connection. The tarpaulin segment is advantageously durable, safe, and reliable. Furthermore, sewing and / or welding is easy and cost-effective to perform, making the side tarpaulin wall system both economical and efficient.

[0054] According to a further preferred embodiment, the webbing is arranged in at least one pocket of the tarpaulin segment. This type of covering of the webbing advantageously protects the webbing when the tarpaulin segment shifts. This increases the durability of the connection between the webbing and the tarpaulin segment, thereby ensuring greater overall reliability and stability by advantageously preventing chafing of the webbing.

[0055] Advantageously, the webbing is connected to the tarpaulin suspension device, at least in sections. Because increased tensile forces act on the tarpaulin segment in the area of ​​the connection between the suspension device and the tarpaulin segment, the webbing is advantageously used as reinforcement in this area. This means that tensile forces are advantageously transferred, at least predominantly, into the webbing, thus relieving stress on and protecting the tarpaulin material.

[0056] According to one design variant, the webbing material is designed as at least one webbing strip. Webbing strips are advantageously easy and quick to attach to a tarpaulin segment, making production and storage cost-effective.

[0057] Overall, it is advantageous that several webbing strips are attached vertically and horizontally to each tarpaulin segment. The tensile forces acting on the tarpaulin segment primarily affect it from both a horizontal and a vertical direction. By arranging the webbing strips vertically and horizontally on the tarpaulin segment, these tensile forces are optimally absorbed and transferred, thus protecting the tarpaulin segment and its material from unwanted overstretching. Furthermore, the tensile forces are optimally transferred from the tarpaulin segment to adjacent sliding mechanisms, ensuring smooth and even opening and closing of the side tarpaulin wall system.

[0058] According to a preferred embodiment, the webbing strips are arranged in a checkerboard pattern. A checkerboard pattern offers the advantage that this geometric arrangement is simple and quick to produce, and that, at the same time, increased tensile strength and stability against tensile forces and potential overstretching of the tarpaulin segment are ensured, particularly at the intersecting points of the webbing strips. Consequently, the tarpaulin segment exhibits a higher load-bearing capacity.

[0059] According to another preferred embodiment, the webbing strips are arranged at defined intervals from one another. To ensure that tensile forces are transmitted evenly from the tarpaulin segment and that a tarpaulin segment can be manufactured economically, the webbing strips have a specific spacing both next to each other and above each other.

[0060] Preferably, the stake suspension device has two twin support rollers. Outside the twin support rollers, the stake suspension device includes a guide roller in the first chamber. By providing two twin support rollers and two guide rollers in the first chamber, it is ensured that the stake suspension device not only supports the mass of the sliding stake, but also transfers forces acting normally on the sliding stake and / or an attached tarpaulin segment, whether during loading or dynamic loads of the cargo during transport, into the respective longitudinal beams via the support rollers.

[0061] Advantageously, the twin support rollers each have a horizontal axis of rotation. Therefore, it is advantageous to arrange the twin support rollers vertically in the first chamber, which allows for displacement along the longitudinal beam and simultaneously ensures that the majority of the sliding pin's weight is borne by the twin support rollers.

[0062] Preferably, the guide rollers each have a vertical axis of rotation. The guide rollers, which are arranged horizontally within the stanchion suspension device, always align the sliding stanchion in an optimal position during relocation. This ensures smooth and jam-free relocation of the sliding stanchion.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the vertical axis of rotation is arranged in a plane between the two support rollers of the twin support rollers. This design, as well as this arrangement of the respective rollers, promotes optimal alignment of the sliding element and jam-free movement of the sliding element, regardless of the direction in which it is moved along the longitudinal beam. Preferably, the vertical axis of rotation is arranged exactly centrally between the two support rollers of the twin support rollers.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the horizontal axis of rotation of the twin support rollers is arranged below the guide rollers. Advantageously, this arrangement provides sufficient clearance for the guide roller to ensure the sliding pins are always aligned in an optimal position.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, both guide rollers are arranged in alignment with each other. The two guide rollers are flush and aligned with each other, thus enabling smooth and jam-free movement of the sliding element.

[0066] Overall, it is advantageous that the twin support rollers are arranged vertically. The weight of the sliding post acts predominantly on the twin support rollers, making their vertical position beneficial. This facilitates both smooth movement of the sliding post and its secure holding and support, as the twin support rollers can be moved along the longitudinal beam without tilting.

[0067] Preferably, the guide rollers are arranged horizontally. A horizontal arrangement of the guide rollers advantageously allows for optimal alignment of the sliding mechanism during movement while opening or closing the side panel.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the guide roller extends beyond the width of the twin support rollers. This advantageously prevents the twin support rollers from coming into contact with an inner side wall of the chamber in which the twin support rollers and the guide roller are located.

[0069] Preferably, an upper edge and a lower edge of the guide roller are chamfered and / or rounded along their outer circumferential surface. On the one hand, a rounded or chamfered outer edge of the guide roller facilitates insertion of the guide roller into the first chamber of the longitudinal beam, and on the other hand, a rounded or chamfered outer edge promotes smooth and jam-free movement of the sliding element.

[0070] Overall, it is advantageous that the tarpaulin segment connected to the sliding rail has a lateral tarpaulin suspension device at its edge, which overlaps the sliding rail. This makes the sliding rails no longer visible, as the respective tarpaulin segments are positioned in front of them. The sliding rails are thus located between the cargo space and the attached tarpaulin segments. A further advantage is that when the side tarpaulin wall system is closed or tensioned, an additional locking mechanism for the sliding rails is no longer necessary, resulting in time savings when opening and closing the side tarpaulin wall system.

[0071] Advantageously, the sliding stake has a sliding stake carriage at one end opposite the stake suspension device, allowing it to be moved relative to a guide rail associated with the loading platform. Thus, the sliding stake is advantageously supported and guided at the top by the stake suspension device and at the bottom by the sliding stake carriage. Guidance at both ends of the sliding stake advantageously facilitates tilt-free movement. Furthermore, guidance at both ends prevents the sliding stake from being forced out of a guide track of a longitudinal beam or a guide rail in the event of horizontal forces acting upon it. Advantageously, the sliding stake can then also transfer forces applied normally to it or an attached tarpaulin segment not only into the longitudinal beam but also into the guide rail, so that they together absorb such loads.It is no longer necessary to detach the sliding stake from a stanchion foot and manually reattach it. This allows the entire side tarpaulin to be closed very quickly. Furthermore, it is no longer necessary to lock the sliding stakes individually to connect them to the stanchion foot. There is also no longer a risk of weakening the structure by not securing the sliding stakes to the loading platform.

[0072] According to a favorable further development, the sliding stake has a downwardly projecting stop body at the end opposite the stake suspension device, which is arranged on an inside of the sliding stake and adjacent to the sliding stake slide.

[0073] In the event that a load or obstacle exerts a force against the sliding rail in a lower area on the inside, the stop body provides additional protection against displacement of the lower sliding rail carriage from the guide rail. Furthermore, the stop body protects against damage to the sliding rail carriage of the sliding rail.

[0074] Preferably, the stop body is riveted and / or screwed to the sliding rail. Depending on the application, the stop body can be quickly and easily connected to the sliding rail. This modular design offers advantageously variable configuration options, thus ensuring ease of assembly.

[0075] In an alternative design, the stop body is connected to the sliding rail via a plug-in system. Advantageously, the stop body can be connected to the sliding rail, for example, via a snap-fit ​​connection. The advantage is that the stop body can be attached to or removed from the sliding rail quickly and easily without tools.

[0076] Advantageously, at least one tarpaulin segment has tarpaulin slides at one end opposite the tarpaulin suspension devices, allowing the tarpaulin segment to be moved relative to a guide rail associated with the loading platform. This advantageously suspends the tarpaulin segment, which is made of flexible tarpaulin material, from both an upper horizontal edge and a lower horizontal edge via tarpaulin slides. This ensures that the tarpaulin segment always maintains a vertically taut shape, thus preventing, for example, flapping of the tarpaulin material while the vehicle is in motion. In particular, the tarpaulin segment is taut in a vertical orientation by means of the tarpaulin suspension devices and the tarpaulin slides, thereby guaranteeing a defined folding motion when the side tarpaulin wall system is opened or closed.Furthermore, the use of tarpaulin slides ensures that the tarpaulin segments are clamped with minimal play both at the top via the tarpaulin suspension device and at the bottom via the tarpaulin slides. Loads acting normally on the tarpaulin segment, such as those caused by centrifugal forces during loading with a forklift or during transport, are transferred into the second chamber of the longitudinal beam or the guide rail. This advantageously ensures that these forces do not have to be transmitted solely by the sliding elements.

[0077] Preferably, each tarpaulin carriage is arranged opposite a tarpaulin suspension device. During the opening or closing process of the side tarpaulin wall system, this advantageously promotes the desired folding of the tarpaulin segment.

[0078] In a more advantageous design, however, no tarpaulin carriage is positioned opposite the side tarpaulin suspension device. Because a keder or connecting element is located along the edge of the tarpaulin segment, it is unnecessary to position a tarpaulin carriage at the bottom horizontal edge of the segment. The keder connection between the tarpaulin segment and the sliding rail is sufficient to hold the segment in the desired shape in this area. This advantageously reduces the number of components, thereby saving costs and assembly time. In particular, this allows the tarpaulin carriages and the sliding rail carriages to be connected to the same guide rail.

[0079] Advantageously, the tarpaulin carriages and the sliding carriages can be moved along the same guide rail. This arrangement offers the advantage of a compact, component-reducing, and space-saving design. Furthermore, it simplifies assembly and allows the use of similar or identical components, thus making manufacturing more economical.

[0080] According to a preferred embodiment, at least two tarpaulin slides are arranged between adjacent sliding carriages. Because a tarpaulin segment has at least two, preferably at least four, and typically between six and twelve tarpaulin slides that are movable along the guide rail, the tarpaulin segment can be advantageously moved evenly and without tilting. Furthermore, in a closed state, the tarpaulin segment is tensioned vertically by means of the tarpaulin slides, thus preventing the tarpaulin segment from fluttering during travel.

[0081] According to a further preferred embodiment, the tarpaulin slides and the sliding rail slides each have at least one support roller arranged above the guide rail and at least one counter roller arranged below the guide rail. An upper and a lower support or guide roller each increase the stability and robustness of the tarpaulin segment and the sliding rail, respectively. Furthermore, the tarpaulin segment and the sliding rail can absorb horizontal forces without being forced out of the guide rail. In addition, the combination of support and guide rollers increases the smooth running of the tarpaulin slides and the sliding rail slides when moved along the guide rail, thus preventing any tilting. The lower counter roller absorbs the forces acting normally on the sliding rails or the tarpaulin segment.

[0082] According to another preferred embodiment, the support rollers and / or the counter rollers are detachably connected to the respective carriages by screws. This advantageously allows defective rollers to be replaced very quickly and easily.

[0083] Overall, it is advantageous that the support rollers and / or counter rollers have a central running surface in contact with a narrow side of the guide rail, and that the support rollers and / or counter rollers have a radially projecting collar on both sides of the running surface, which can be brought into contact with a broad side of the guide rail to absorb horizontal forces. The support rollers and / or counter rollers are designed so that they can be optimally brought into contact with the guide rail and moved along the guide rail, thus allowing the tarpaulin segment and the sliding rail to be moved smoothly and without tilting. Furthermore, the support rollers and / or counter rollers can absorb horizontal forces without the tarpaulin carriage or the sliding rail carriage being forced out of the guide rail. The collar can be formed perpendicular to the central running surface.Preferably, however, the collars have a small angle to the vertical in order to improve the mobility of the rollers, to better follow deformations of the guide rail and to avoid jamming.

[0084] According to one design variant, the tarpaulin segment includes at least one tensile-resistant reinforcing strip. Advantageously, tensile forces acting on the tarpaulin segment can be controlled and transferred via the reinforcing strips without damaging the tarpaulin segment.

[0085] Preferably, the reinforcement strip is sewn and / or welded to the tarpaulin segment. This provides a simple and cost-effective way to connect the reinforcement strip to the tarpaulin segment.

[0086] According to one design variant, the reinforcement strip includes a strap, at least in part. This combination promotes elastic elongation of the tarpaulin segment, allowing the tarpaulin segment to be equipped with different reinforcement strips depending on the application.

[0087] Advantageously, the tarpaulin segment includes at least one pair of reinforcing plates designed as a folding aid. This pair of reinforcing plates advantageously facilitates the coordinated folding and unfolding of the tarpaulin segment during the opening and closing of the side tarpaulin wall system.

[0088] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one pair of reinforcing plates is welded and / or sewn to the tarpaulin segment. This provides a simple and cost-effective method of creating a connection between the pair of reinforcing plates and the tarpaulin segment.

[0089] According to a further preferred embodiment, at least one pair of reinforcing plates is made of a tarpaulin material. Advantageously, the same tarpaulin material can be used for the reinforcing plates as for the tarpaulin segment, thus saving costs. Furthermore, this facilitates welding to the tarpaulin segment, thereby providing a stable, material-bonded connection.

[0090] Overall, it is advantageous that the wall thickness of at least one pair of reinforcing plates is greater than the wall thickness of the tarpaulin segment. By providing an increased wall thickness for the reinforcing plate pair, a defined weight can be positioned in a lower area of ​​the tarpaulin segment, thus ensuring coordinated folding and unfolding of the tarpaulin segment.

[0091] Preferably, at least one pair of reinforcing plates of the tarpaulin segment is arranged adjacent to the tarpaulin carriages. On the one hand, this advantageously ensures optimal folding and unfolding, and on the other hand, the pair of reinforcing plates serves as a protective element against wear in an area of ​​the guide rail, thus increasing the service life of the tarpaulin segment by protecting it from chafing.

[0092] Preferably, each tarpaulin carriage is assigned at least one pair of reinforcing plates. Advantageously, the pair of reinforcing plates promotes a coordinated, even, and accordion-like folding and unfolding of the tarpaulin segment.

[0093] According to one design option, the tarpaulin segments are printed. Advantageously, the tarpaulin segments can be coated or printed to provide advertising or promotional material for a public audience on one of their outer surfaces.

[0094] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one tarpaulin segment is arranged between two adjacent sliding panels. Advantageously, sliding panels on both sides define a tarpaulin segment, thereby giving the side tarpaulin wall system its flexibility and ease of operation.

[0095] Preferably, the tarpaulin segment can be folded accordion-style. Advantageously, each tarpaulin segment folds into several pleats when opened, particularly between two and twelve pleats, preferably between four and eight pleats. In particular, a vertical strap of the tarpaulin segment forms a section of the pleat that remains in the plane of the closed tarpaulin. In particular, a section of the tarpaulin segment arranged between a pair of reinforcing plates forms a fold over the pleat. Preferably, the fold overs run vertically in a plane parallel to the plane of the closed tarpaulin. Uniform, accordion-style folding allows for the largest possible opening to the cargo area of ​​a commercial vehicle when the side tarpaulin is open. Furthermore, it facilitates the opening and closing of the side tarpaulin wall system.Furthermore, coordinated folding of the tarpaulin segment increases its lifespan. The even, accordion-like folding results in minimal lateral overhang when the side panel is open.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, all twin support rollers and guide rollers of the stanchion suspension device are arranged in the first chamber. Furthermore, all support rollers of the tarpaulin suspension device are preferably arranged in the second chamber. Advantageously, the first and second chambers are spaced apart from each other. The tarpaulin segment and the sliding stanchions can advantageously be guided along only one longitudinal beam. This provides a compact and space-saving design. Moreover, the sliding stanchions and tarpaulin segments can be removed or replaced independently of each other from the longitudinal beam, thus increasing ease of assembly.

[0097] Overall, it is advantageous that the tarpaulin suspension device has a guide roller that rests against an outer wall of the longitudinal beam, and that the outer wall of the longitudinal beam is located above the first chamber. The guide roller, among other things, holds the tarpaulin segment at a distance from the longitudinal beam, thus preventing wear on the tarpaulin segment. This increases the product lifespan of the tarpaulin segment, as chafing of the tarpaulin material is prevented.

[0098] Preferably, the tarpaulin suspension devices are spring-loaded, for example, by pre-tensioning two axially guided parts in a tensioned direction with at least one tension spring. Advantageously, any overstretching of the tarpaulin material is avoided or compensated for when the tarpaulin segment is moved, since the springs in the tarpaulin suspension devices always provide dynamic compensation for movement between the tarpaulin segment and the suspension device. Consequently, moving the tarpaulin segment is gentle on the material and thus has a positive effect on product longevity.

[0099] According to another preferred embodiment, the outer wall of the longitudinal beam is arranged below the second chamber. This arrangement advantageously promotes optimal folding and unfolding of the tarpaulin segment. Furthermore, the tarpaulin segment is advantageously always spaced apart from the longitudinal beam, so that the tarpaulin material does not rub against the longitudinal beam on an inner surface of the tarpaulin segment.

[0100] Preferably, the stake suspension device comprises at least two upper twin support rollers and at least one upper guide roller, wherein the upper twin support rollers and the upper guide roller are displaceable in a first chamber of a longitudinal beam. The stake suspension device includes a guide roller outside the twin support rollers in the direction of travel, with each guide roller positioned below an upper edge of the twin support rollers and above a lower edge of the twin support rollers. The guide rollers ensure that the sliding stake moves smoothly and without jamming. Furthermore, the two guide rollers align the sliding stake in such a way that it can always be moved smoothly and without jamming along the longitudinal beam, even at a slight incline.In particular, the two guide rollers arranged at the front in the direction of travel allow the absorption of forces acting normally on the slide, whereby the placement of the two guide rollers in the outer position and thus at a large distance from each other avoids the formation of a tilting moment in the case of asymmetric loading.

[0101] The further features of the sliding elements described above in connection with the side tarpaulin wall system according to the invention, as well as their advantages and properties, can also be implemented in a sliding element according to the invention and are hereby expressly included.

[0102] According to one aspect, a method for manufacturing an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, such as a truck, semi-trailer, transport vehicle, trailer, container, railcar, or the like, has been developed. The method comprises providing a tarpaulin segment with an edge-mounted keder, inserting the keder into a groove of a keder rail, and attaching the keder rail to a sliding post. The aforementioned method has two significant advantages.

[0103] Firstly, a side tarpaulin can be provided quickly, efficiently and economically, and secondly, in case of a defect, for example of a tarpaulin segment or a sliding cleat, it can be easily replaced.

[0104] The process begins by attaching the keder of each tarpaulin segment to the keder rails, thus creating a continuous chain of alternating tarpaulin segments and keder rails. Only then are the keder rails attached to the sliding mechanism bodies, which may already be mounted on the longitudinal beam and / or the guide rail. Alternatively, immediately after connecting the tarpaulin segments to the keder rail (which conveniently has two grooves for this purpose), the keder rail can be attached to the corresponding sliding mechanism. This process then continues with the keder of the tarpaulin segment facing away from the keder rail and another keder rail.

[0105] It is advantageous to attach tarpaulin suspension devices to the tarpaulin segment. These devices primarily serve to hold and reposition the tarpaulin segment, ensuring it maintains the desired shape. Furthermore, the suspension devices largely bear the segment's own weight. It is beneficial to attach the suspension devices before the tarpaulin segment is positioned, so that the segment already has the suspension devices before the keder is inserted. This is particularly advantageous if the tarpaulin segment has vertical straps extending from the suspension devices, as the devices can be more easily connected to the straps before the segment is positioned. It is also possible to suspend the tarpaulin segments with the suspension devices from a longitudinal beam before its keder is inserted into the keder rail.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment, the tarpaulin suspension devices are attached to the tarpaulin segment before the keder is inserted into the groove. Pre-assembled tarpaulin segments can be connected to the side tarpaulin wall system even more quickly, thus ensuring ease of assembly.

[0107] Preferably, tarpaulin carriages are connected to the tarpaulin segment. Connecting tarpaulin carriages ensures that the tarpaulin segment is always kept in shape along the guide rail. Furthermore, this advantageously prevents fluttering during travel. Additionally, the opening and closing process of the tarpaulin segment is always coordinated and smooth.

[0108] According to another preferred embodiment, the tarpaulin carriages are connected to the tarpaulin segment before the keder is inserted into the groove. To save time, a tarpaulin segment can advantageously be supplied pre-assembled with the tarpaulin carriages already attached, allowing for quick replacement or connection of the tarpaulin segment to a sliding rail. Similarly, the tarpaulin carriages can already be slid onto the guide rail before the keder of the tarpaulin segment is connected to the keder rail.

[0109] Overall, it is advantageous that the keder rail is attached to the sliding post by riveting. The riveting process ensures a particularly high level of stability in the connection between the keder rail and the sliding post.

[0110] According to one design variant, the keder is attached to the edge of the tarpaulin segment by sewing, welding, gluing, or a combination thereof. The keder is connected to the tarpaulin segment using standard methods, thus providing a cost-effective and reliable connection.

[0111] According to another preferred embodiment, the keder has a keder flap to which the tarpaulin segment is attached at its edge by sewing, welding, gluing, or a combination thereof. A keder flap facilitates connection to the tarpaulin segment. Furthermore, the keder can advantageously be easily replaced without damaging the tarpaulin segment or its tarpaulin material.

[0112] According to another aspect, a method for manufacturing an openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle, such as a truck, semi-trailer, transport vehicle, trailer, container, railcar, or the like, has been developed. The method involves providing a tarpaulin segment with an edge-mounted keder rail that has at least one groove. Furthermore, the method includes inserting a corresponding connecting element into the groove of the keder rail. Depending on the application, it is advantageous to equip the tarpaulin segment with a keder rail. Thus, the side tarpaulin wall system offers increased flexibility and ease of assembly.

[0113] Preferably, the keder rail is attached to the edge of the tarpaulin segment by sewing, welding, gluing, or a combination thereof. The connection between the keder rail and the tarpaulin segment thus advantageously provides a stable and reliable bond. Furthermore, the connection is characterized as economical and efficient.

[0114] Overall, it is advantageous that the keder rail has a keder strip to which the tarpaulin segment is attached at the edge via sewing, welding, gluing, or a combination thereof. When the keder rail is replaced, the keder strip is cut. Consequently, the tarpaulin segment or its material is not damaged.

[0115] Preferably, the corresponding connecting element is designed as a longitudinally extended rod or tube, which is connected to a sliding pin via a screw connection and / or welding. The corresponding connecting element is advantageously a separate component that is attached to the sliding pin. In this respect, this method offers increased flexibility and ease of assembly.

[0116] According to one design variant, the corresponding connecting element is formed as a flange or projection extending from a sliding rail. Here, the corresponding connecting element is integrally formed with the sliding rail. The advantage is that the overall number of components is reduced, thereby lowering costs. Furthermore, a one-piece connecting element is very stable, resulting in a reliable and secure side panel wall system.

[0117] It is advisable to sew and / or weld at least one pair of reinforcing plates, designed as a folding aid, to one inside and / or one outside of the tarpaulin segment. If the tarpaulin segment requires further pairs of reinforcing plates, these can be attached during assembly. This advantageously increases the ease of assembly and the flexibility of the tarpaulin segment.

[0118] Preferably, in this method, the sliding joint is designed as described above.

[0119] The direct product of the aforementioned manufacturing process is a side panel wall system that is easy to manufacture, easy to operate, and reliable. Accordingly, a side panel wall system is created that meets specific requirements through this process.

[0120] Further advantages and features of the claimed invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment and from the dependent claims.

[0121] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of an exemplary embodiment of a side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle. Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a side panel wall system. Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows a front view of an attached tarpaulin segment of the side tarpaulin wall system. Fig. 4 shows Fig. 3 without tarpaulin segment. Fig. Figure 5 shows a perspective sectional view of an embodiment of a connection between a sliding joint and a longitudinal beam. Fig. 6 shows the connection from Fig. 5 in a sectional view from the front. Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows an embodiment of a lower section of a sliding joint in a sectional view from the front. Fig. Figure 8 shows a sliding stake with a stake suspension device made of Fig. 5 in a top view. Fig. Figure 9 shows a sliding stake with a stake suspension device made of Fig. 5 in a perspective view.

[0122] In Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a side panel wall system 10. An example is shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows a commercial vehicle 11 with a semi-trailer in a side view. The side tarpaulin wall system 10 is located between a longitudinal beam 14 and a guide rail 26 associated with the loading platform 15. Furthermore, the side tarpaulin wall system 10 comprises several tarpaulin segments 16 located between vertical sliding panels 12. Here, in Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a first tarpaulin segment 16a and a second tarpaulin segment 16b, which are each connected to sliding elements 12 via their vertical edge 16e.

[0123] A sliding stanchion 12 has a sliding stanchion body 12a with an upper end 12b and a lower end 12c. Each sliding stanchion 12 is connected by means of a stanchion suspension device 13, which is located in a first chamber 14a, which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, one longitudinal beam 14 is movable.

[0124] Furthermore, the sliding rail 12 has a sliding rail carriage 25 at its lower end 12c, which can be moved along the guide rail 26. The sliding rail body 12a comprises a keder rail 22 with a double groove 22a, which is Fig. 5, Fig. 8 and in Fig. 9 is shown. The keder rail 22, which is attached to the sliding rail 12, forms the counterpart element 20 for a keder connection 21 with a tarpaulin segment 16.

[0125] Each tarpaulin segment 16 has an upper horizontal edge 16c and a lower horizontal edge 16d. Furthermore, each tarpaulin segment 16 includes at least one vertical edge 16e on which a keder 23; 24 is arranged. The keder 23; 24 of the tarpaulin segment 16 forms the connecting element 19 of the tarpaulin segment 16 with the counterpart element 20 of the sliding rail 12, so that the tarpaulin segment 16 can be connected to the sliding rail 12 via a keder connection 21.

[0126] The upper horizontal edge 16c of the tarpaulin segment 16 includes tarpaulin suspension devices 18 and the lower horizontal edge 16d of the tarpaulin segment 16 includes tarpaulin slides 35. Consequently, the tarpaulin segment 16 is extended along a second chamber 14b, which is located in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the longitudinal beam 14 can be moved via the tarpaulin suspension devices 18. Furthermore, the tarpaulin segment 16 can be moved along the guide rail 26 via the tarpaulin slides 35. A tarpaulin suspension device 18 is described in detail, for example, in DE 20 2015 006 044 U1, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0127] When a sliding rail 12, which is connected to a tarpaulin segment 16 via a keder connection 21, is moved, a tensile force acts on the tarpaulin segment 16 along its vertical edge 16e. This tensile force is transferred to an adjacent sliding rail 12, causing it to also move, always in the same direction. A combination of the aforementioned sliding rails 12 and tarpaulin segments 16 therefore forms an openable side tarpaulin 9 for a commercial vehicle 11.

[0128] To prevent the tarpaulin segment 16 from being overstretched and to ensure that the tarpaulin segment 16 has a certain degree of stability, the tarpaulin segment 16 includes tensile reinforcements 28; 43 which are sewn or welded into the tarpaulin segment 16.

[0129] The tensile reinforcements 28; 43 also have, at least in sections, straps 29; 29a. Advantageously, the tarpaulin segment 16 is protected from overstretching in the middle of the tensile reinforcements 28; 43 or straps 29; 29a.

[0130] Furthermore, the tensile reinforcements 28; 43 preferably serve as a folding aid. When the side tarpaulin wall system 10 is opened, the sliding elements 12 are displaced, and thus the tarpaulin segments 16 are also displaced. In this process, the tarpaulin segments 16 are folded together in an accordion-like manner.

[0131] Fig. Figure 2 shows an exemplary perspective view of the side tarpaulin wall system 10. In this embodiment, it is clearly visible that the tarpaulin segment 16 has tension reinforcements 28; 43, which are arranged in a checkerboard pattern with the tarpaulin segment 16. Furthermore, the vertical tension reinforcements 28; 43 are connected on one side to tarpaulin carriages 35 in a region of the guide rail 26 and on the other side to tarpaulin suspension devices 18 in a region of the longitudinal beam 14.

[0132] Fig. Figure 3 shows an enlarged front view of a section of the side tarpaulin wall system 10. The tarpaulin segment 16 is positioned centrally, its vertical edges 16e each framed by a sliding rib 12. The upper horizontal edge 16c of the tarpaulin segment 16 is attached to tarpaulin suspension devices 18 and to lateral tarpaulin suspension devices 18a, which in turn are located in a second chamber 14b of the longitudinal beam 14. The lower horizontal edge 16d of the tarpaulin segment 16 is connected to tarpaulin slides 35, which are inserted into the tarpaulin segment 16. Fig. 3 will be covered.

[0133] Both vertical edges 16e of the tarpaulin segment 16 each have a keder 23; 24, which is located in a groove 22a of a keder rail 22. The keder rail 22 is arranged longitudinally on a sliding rail 12 and fastened to it by means of screws. A positive-locking connection is established via the keder connection 21, so that a tensile force introduced from the sliding rail 12 onto the tarpaulin segment 16 can act uniformly over the entire vertical edge 16e of the tarpaulin segment 16. Furthermore, a tarpaulin segment 16 can transmit the same tensile forces to the sliding rail 12 via the keder connection 21. This depends on the direction of displacement of the side tarpaulin 9.

[0134] Fig. 4 shows the same representation according to Fig. 3, however, excluding tarpaulin segment 16. In Fig. 4 the two sliding elements 12 are fully visible in a front view, as are the lower tarpaulin slides 35, which were previously hidden by the tarpaulin segment 16.

[0135] Each sliding cleat 12 has guide elements 30; 30a along the longitudinal direction of its respective cleat body 12a. If a load located within a cargo space is moved outside the loading platform 15, the sliding cleat 12 can be easily guided past the load during an opening or closing operation by means of the guide elements 30.

[0136] Fig. Figure 5 shows a section of the upper end 12b of the sliding joint 12. In particular, the longitudinal beam 14 is clearly visible, with a section through the longitudinal beam 14 shown so that the first chamber 14a and the second chamber 14b of the longitudinal beam 14 are visible.

[0137] In Fig. Figure 5 shows the sliding stake 12 such that the stake suspension device 13 is visible. The stake suspension device 13 is located on one side facing the loading platform 15. The stake suspension device 13 has support rollers 33a; 33b, which are designed as twin support rollers 33, and which are movable in the first chamber 14a of the longitudinal beam 14.

[0138] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 5. The tarpaulin suspension device 18 or the lateral tarpaulin suspension device 18a, each with a total of two support rollers 18b, which are arranged and movable in a second chamber 14b of the longitudinal beam 14. Furthermore, each tarpaulin suspension device 18; 18a comprises two horizontal guide rollers 18c, which are movable along an outer wall 14c of the longitudinal beam 14. It is clearly visible that an angled bend 31 extends outwards from the sliding mechanism body 12a, defining the guide element 30.

[0139] Furthermore, it shows Fig. Figure 5 clearly shows the keder rail 22, which is arranged centrally along the sliding door body 12a. The keder rail 22 includes a double groove 22a in which a keder 23; 24 of a tarpaulin segment 16 can be mounted on the left and right respectively.

[0140] As a result, a first tarpaulin segment 16a and a second tarpaulin segment 16b can be connected to a sliding rail 12 via a first keder 23 and via a second keder 24.

[0141] Fig. Figure 6 shows a sectional view of the upper end 12b of the sliding stanchion body 12a. The longitudinal beam 14 with its first chamber 14a and its second chamber 14b is clearly visible, with both chambers 14a and 14b spaced apart from each other. The stanchion suspension device 13 with the two twin support rollers 33 is arranged within the first chamber 14a. In this view, the rollers have an upper edge 45 and a lower edge 46.

[0142] Below the stake suspension device 13 is the sliding stake 12, which is connected to the stake suspension device 13 by a force-fit and form-fit connection. The tarpaulin suspension device 18; 18a is located in the second chamber 14b of the longitudinal beam 14. The tarpaulin suspension device 18; 18a has vertical support rollers 18b and horizontal guide rollers 18c. The horizontal guide roller 18c is guided along an outer wall 14c of the longitudinal beam 14. The outer wall 14c is located on the side facing away from the loading platform 15.

[0143] Fig. Figure 7 shows the lower end 12c of the sliding element body 12a. At the lower end 12c, the sliding element 12 has a sliding element carriage 25, which is displaceable along the guide rail 26. The sliding element carriage 25 comprises two upper support rollers 25a and one lower counter roller 25b. The support rollers 25a and the counter roller 25b each have a collar 25d projecting over a running surface 25c, so that the support rollers 25a and the counter roller 25b can absorb horizontal forces without being displaced from the guide rail 26.

[0144] Furthermore, in Fig. Figure 7 shows a stop body 27, which serves as additional protection for the sliding carriage 25. The stop body 27 transmits horizontal forces, which can be caused in particular by a shifting load, into the sliding carriage body 12a, so that the sliding carriage 25 of the sliding carriage 12 is always connected to the guide rail 26 in a way that allows it to be moved.

[0145] Fig. Figure 8 shows the sliding rail 12 in a top view. The sliding rail 12 has a mirror-symmetrical shape, characterized by the plane of symmetry E. The keder rail 22 is arranged centrally within the sliding rail 12. The keder rail 22 has a double groove 22a in which a keder 23; 24 of a first tarpaulin segment 16a and a second tarpaulin segment 16b can be inserted. The double groove 22a of the keder rail 22 has a total opening slot that extends along the keder rail 22. The respective tarpaulin segment 16 emerges from this opening slot to the left or right.

[0146] It is important that the opening slot is designed to be narrow, so that the two emerging tarpaulin segments 16a; 16b have as little gap as possible and are arranged flush with each other.

[0147] In particular, in Fig. 8 The stake suspension device 13 is clearly visible. The stake suspension device 13 has so-called twin support rollers 33, which are located to the left and right of the keder rail 22 in a vertical orientation. Each twin support roller 33 comprises a first support roller 33a and a second support roller 33b, each defining a width 39 and having an identical axis of rotation 36. Horizontal guide rollers 34 of the stake suspension device 13 are arranged outside in the direction of travel of the sliding stake 12 with respect to the twin support rollers 33. Furthermore, each guide roller 34 has a vertical axis of rotation 37. In addition, the guide rollers 34 have a larger outer diameter 38 than the width 39 of the twin support rollers 33.

[0148] Fig. Figure 8 further shows a first embodiment of a guide element 30. The guide element 30 of the sliding sash 12 extends from the sliding sash body 12a at a specific angle W. The guide element 30 is designed as a chamfer 31 with a radius R. Here, an outer edge 32 points in a direction towards a tarpaulin segment 16.

[0149] Fig. Figure 9 shows an upper end 12b of the sliding stanchion 12 with a stanchion suspension device 13 connected to the sliding stanchion body 12a. Both the twin support rollers 33 and the guide rollers 34 of the stanchion suspension device 13 are clearly visible, as the longitudinal beam 14 in Fig. 9 is not shown. The horizontal guide rollers 34 of the stake suspension device 13 have an upper edge 40 and a lower edge 41 which are arranged on an outer circumferential surface 42 of the guide rollers 34.

[0150] Furthermore, in Fig.Figure 9 shows a second embodiment of a guide element 30 for the sliding shank 12. Here, the guide element 30 has a total of three bends 31 from the sliding shank body 12a. Each bend 31 has a radius R. The guide element 30 is bent from the sliding shank body 12a at an angle W such that the guide element 30 forms a triangular cross-section encompassing a cavity H. The outer edges 32 are blunt in the direction of travel. Furthermore, the guide element 30 includes a smooth front surface 30a, which is located on the side facing away from the loading platform 15.

[0151] The invention functions as follows: The closed and locked side tarpaulin wall system 10 is unlocked at a corresponding point, thus ensuring that the side tarpaulin wall system 10 or the side tarpaulin 9 can be moved or opened. Using a rod with a hook, the side tarpaulin wall system 10 can be opened manually via a strap loop. The user pulls the strap loop in an opening direction, so that the sliding elements 12 and the tarpaulin segments 16 connected to the sliding elements 12 follow the strap loop in the opening direction.

[0152] When shifted in the opening direction, the tarpaulin segments 16 are folded accordion-like, so that the sliding elements 12 and the folded tarpaulin segments 16 are arranged in a corner of the commercial vehicle 11, thereby releasing a lateral opening 17 of the commercial vehicle 11.

[0153] To close the side tarpaulin wall system 10, a second, oppositely arranged strap loop, which is connected to a different stake suspension device 13, is manually pulled in the opposite direction using the rod with a hook, so that the sliding stake 12 or the tarpaulin segment 16 follows the direction of displacement. In doing so, the tarpaulin segments 16 are unfolded, forming a smooth, flat wall. Once the entire side opening 17 is covered with the side tarpaulin wall system 10, the side tarpaulin wall system 10 is locked and tensioned by means of a locking device and, if applicable, a tensioning device. The commercial vehicle 11 is then ready to drive.

[0154] Should a load shift within the cargo space, so that it constitutes an obstacle for the sliding elements 12, the sliding elements 12 can be easily guided past the obstacle due to their guide elements 30.

[0155] The side panel 9, or the side panel wall system 10, no longer simply serves as a cover. The side panel 9 is divided into several panel segments 16, which are directly connected to the sliding elements 12. In this way, the panel segment 16 functions as a link in a chain between the sliding elements 12.

[0156] In the event that a tarpaulin segment 16 is damaged, it should be replaced using the following steps as an example. First, a tarpaulin material is cut into rectangular tarpaulin segments 16, whereby an upper horizontal edge 16c of the tarpaulin segment 16 is assigned to a longitudinal beam 14 and a lower horizontal edge 16d of the tarpaulin segment 16 is assigned to a guide rail 26.

[0157] In the next step, at least one keder 23; 24 is connected adjacent to the vertical edge 16e of the tarpaulin segment 16. This vertical edge 16e of the tarpaulin segment 16 is corresponding to the sliding rail 12. The keder 23; 24, which is positively connected to the tarpaulin segment 16, is then inserted into a groove 22a of a keder rail 22. Finally, the keder rail 22, which is connected to the tarpaulin segment 16, is fastened to the sliding rail 12 using rivets or screws.

[0158] The upper horizontal edge 16c of the tarpaulin segment 16 is connected to the tarpaulin suspension devices 18; 18a. The tarpaulin suspension devices 18; 18a are accordingly suspended in a second chamber 14b of the longitudinal beam 14 and are movable along the longitudinal beam 14.

[0159] In a final step, the tarpaulin segment 16 is connected to the tarpaulin carriages 35, which can be moved along the guide rail 26, which is assigned to the loading platform 15. The entire side tarpaulin wall system 10 is therefore modularly constructed, so that individual components can be exchanged and replaced very easily and quickly.

[0160] Furthermore, automation of the side tarpaulin wall system 10 is possible, so that the side tarpaulin wall system 10 can be automatically opened and closed via a computer control.

Claims

[1] Sliding mechanism for an openable side tarpaulin wall system (10) for a commercial vehicle (11), comprising a sliding body (12a) with an upper end (12b) and with a lower end (12c), wherein the upper end (12b) of the sliding stanchion body (12a) comprises a stanchion suspension device (13), wherein the stake suspension device (13) is displaceable along a first chamber (14a) of a longitudinal beam (14), wherein the sliding element (12) has at least a guide element (30) at least in sections, which extends from the edge of the sliding element body (12a), and wherein the guide element (30) is oriented outwards in a direction away from the commercial vehicle (11), characterized by , that the guide element (30) is designed as a bend (31) of the sliding body (12a), that the guide element (30) has a triangular cross-section enclosing a cavity (H), that the bent guide element (30) has a bent section with an outwardly facing smooth front surface (30a), which bent section is arranged spaced apart from the sliding body (12a) by a slot, that the stake suspension device (13) projects laterally towards the sliding stake body (12a), and that the guide element (30) projects laterally towards the stake suspension device (13). [2] Sliding devices according to claim 1, characterized by , that the guide element (30) and the sliding body (12a) are one piece. [3] Sliding bearings according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the guiding element (30) forms at least a wing-like edge of the sliding ring body (12a) in the longitudinal direction of the sliding ring (12). [4] Sliding joints according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized bythat the stake suspension device (13) comprises at least two twin support rollers (33) and at least one guide roller (34). [5] Sliding joints according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the sliding body (12a) has a preferably central recess into which at least one keder rail (22) can be inserted. [6] Sliding devices according to claim 5, characterized by , that when the keder rail (22) is inserted, an end face of the keder rail (22) is at least largely flush with a front face of the sliding rail body (12a) and / or an outer front surface (30a) of the guide element (30). [7] Openable side tarpaulin wall system for a commercial vehicle (11), comprising at least one sliding stake (12), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a sliding stake body (12a) and a stake suspension device (13) which is displaceable along a first chamber (14a) of a longitudinal beam (14) supported against a loading platform (15), and at least one tarpaulin segment (16) that at least partially closes a lateral opening (17) of the commercial vehicle (11) and that is suspended via tarpaulin suspension devices (18) that are movable along a second chamber (14b) of the longitudinal beam (14), wherein the sliding stanchion (12) has at least a guide element (30) in at least sections, which extends from the edge of the sliding stanchion body (12a), and wherein the guide element (30) is oriented outwards in a direction away from the loading platform (15), characterized by , that the guide element (30) is designed as a bend (31) of the sliding body (12a), that the guide element (30) has a triangular cross-section enclosing a cavity (H), that the bent guide element (30) has a bent section with an outwardly facing smooth front surface (30a), which bent section is arranged spaced apart from the sliding body (12a) by a slot, that the stake suspension device (13) projects laterally towards the sliding stake body (12a), and that the guide element (30) projects laterally towards the stake suspension device (13). [8] Openable side panel wall system according to claim 7, characterized by, that the tarpaulin segment (16) is connected to the sliding bar (12) at its edge, that adjacent tarpaulin segments (16) are each connected to each other via a sliding bar (12), that several tarpaulin segments (16) with sliding bars (12) arranged between them form a side tarpaulin (9), and that the side tarpaulin (9) can be tensioned at its end in order to position the movable sliding bars (12), and that when the tarpaulin segments (16) are tensioned the sliding bars (12) can be moved into position. [9] Openable side panel wall system according to one of claims 7 or 8, characterized by, that the tarpaulin segment (16) can be folded accordion-style, and that in particular each tarpaulin segment (16) folds into several folds when opened, in particular between two and twelve folds, preferably between four and eight folds, wherein in particular a vertical strap (29a) of the tarpaulin segment (16) forms a section of the fold remaining in a plane of the closed side tarpaulin (9), and wherein in particular a section of the tarpaulin segment (16) arranged between a pair of reinforcing plates (44) forms a fold over the fold, wherein preferably the fold overs of the folds run vertically in a plane parallel to the plane of the closed side tarpaulin (9). [10] Openable side panel wall system according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized by, that all twin support rollers (33) and guide rollers (34) of the stake suspension device (13) are arranged in the first chamber (14a), that all support rollers (18b) of the tarpaulin suspension device (18) are arranged in the second chamber (14b), and that the first chamber (14a) and the second chamber (14b) are spaced apart from each other.

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