Manual control device and method for operating a braking system for a motor vehicle combination

Abstract

Manual control device (10) for operating a braking system with a service brake and a parking brake for a motor vehicle combination comprising a towing vehicle and a trailer, comprising: a service brake control element (20) that can be actuated to operate the service brake during the driving operation of the motor vehicle combination and in a first actuation direction (A); and a stretch brake control element (30) which can be actuated in a second actuation direction (B) to activate an electric stretch brake function of the brake system, wherein the service brake control element (20) and the stretch brake control element (30) form a structural unit, further comprising: a control device (40) which is designed to operate the motor vehicle combination during driving operation a) to detect an actuation and a deflection of the service brake control element (20) in the first actuation direction (A), b) to detect an actuation of the stretch brake control element (30) in the second actuation direction (B), wherein the electrical stretch brake function is activated when an actuation of the stretch brake control element (30) is detected, characterized in that the control device (40) is designed c) to generate and output at least one control signal to change a braking force generated by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element (20) and on whether the electric stretch brake function is activated.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a hand-operated control device, a method for operating a braking system for a motor vehicle combination, and a motor vehicle combination with the hand-operated control device.

[0002] For vehicle combinations, especially commercial vehicle combinations such as trucks or semi-trailer trucks, the so-called stretch braking function is known, which is designed to prevent buckling of the vehicle combination, particularly when driving downhill. Such buckling results primarily from the trailer or semi-trailer colliding with the towing vehicle due to higher speed. To stabilize or "stretch" the combination, the braking force of the trailer or semi-trailer can be influenced, in particular increased. The braking force of the towing vehicle is not affected by the stretch braking function.

[0003] Motor vehicles are also known to be equipped with service brakes and parking brakes. Nowadays, pneumatic service and parking brakes are particularly common. Unlike conventional brakes, these do not rely on purely mechanical or pneumatic actuation, but rather on electrical or electropneumatic control, for example, via actuators. The service and parking brakes of a vehicle combination typically influence the braking force of both the towing vehicle and the trailer. The control element for operating the electric parking brake is usually located on the dashboard or next to the steering wheel of the vehicle, and not typically on a center console between the front seats, as is the case with conventional, mechanical parking brakes.

[0004] To provide improved operation of the service brake, the stretch brake function, and preferably also the parking brake for a motor vehicle combination, there is a need for an operating device, in particular a hand-held operating device, with which, for example, the service brake and the stretch brake function can be operated by a user, especially a driver, in a simple and intuitive manner while driving. Furthermore, the operating device and the control system for operating the service brake, the parking brake, and the stretch brake function should be designed to be as space-saving as possible.

[0005] From DE 10 2017 105 690 A1, an actuating device for controlling a parking brake device, in particular an electronic one, of a vehicle is known. The device comprises an actuating lever with at least one actuating button and a receiving element, wherein the actuating lever and the receiving element are rotatably connected to each other and are rotatable relative to each other about a pivot axis. The device has various switching states, which are generated by a rotary movement of the actuating lever in conjunction with actuation of the actuating button and which correspond to actuating or releasing the parking brake device.

[0006] From DE 10 2017 105 689 A1, an actuating device with a rotary knob is known which, in various switching positions, releases the service brake, operates the parking brake or activates a stretch brake function.

[0007] DE 10 2007 025 814 A1 discloses a hand control element with several deflection ranges in which various braking functions can be activated, including a stretch braking function.

[0008] DE 10 2008 014 459 A1 describes a control system for brake systems that can be operated in conjunction with other vehicle functions.

[0009] Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide such a solution. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved hand-held operating device for operating a braking system comprising a service brake and a parking brake for a motor vehicle combination, with which at least the service brake and a retractable brake function can be operated in a simple manner.

[0010] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0011] According to a first general aspect of the invention, a hand-held operating device is provided for operating a braking system, in particular an electropneumatic and / or electrically controlled pneumatic system, with a service brake and a parking brake for a motor vehicle combination comprising a towing vehicle and a trailer.

[0012] The hand-operated control device comprises a service brake control element that can be actuated in a first direction for the (electrical) operation of the service brake, in particular an electropneumatic and / or electrically controlled pneumatic brake, while the vehicle combination is in motion, and preferably for the (electrical) operation of the parking brake, in particular an electropneumatic and / or electrically controlled pneumatic brake, when the vehicle combination is not in motion. In other words, while the vehicle combination is in motion, the service brake can be operated by actuating the service brake control element; when the vehicle combination is not in motion, the parking brake can be operated by actuating the service brake control element. The vehicle combination may preferably also include a foot brake pedal for actuating the service brake and / or a handbrake for actuating the parking brake.

[0013] Driving operation can appropriately include, for example, a state of the motor vehicle combination with its drive system engaged and / or the motor vehicle combination in motion. Non-driving operation can appropriately include, for example, a state of the motor vehicle combination with its drive system disengaged and / or the motor vehicle combination at rest.

[0014] The hand control device further comprises a stretch brake control element which can be actuated in a second actuation direction, preferably different from the first actuation direction, to activate an electric stretch brake function of the brake system.

[0015] The service brake control element and the stretch brake control element form a single structural unit.

[0016] The service brake control and the stretch brake control can, for example, be arranged in such a way that the service brake control and the stretch brake control can be operated simultaneously, in particular by one user (i.e. with a single hand of the user).

[0017] The braking system, in particular a commercial vehicle braking system, can be a compressed air braking system and / or a pneumatic braking system. The service brake can include a service brake for the towing vehicle and a service brake for the trailer, each of which may, for example, be designed as at least one (pneumatic) brake circuit. The parking brake can include a parking brake for the towing vehicle and a parking brake for the trailer, each of which may, for example, be designed as at least one (pneumatic) brake circuit.

[0018] The braking system can, for example, include at least one electrically and / or electronically controlled brake valve, in particular for each of the vehicle axles, the towing vehicle, and at least one trailer control valve. Through electrical control, the at least one brake valve and the at least one trailer control valve can each adjust a desired pneumatic braking force. In other words, the at least one brake valve and the at least one trailer control valve can each be configured to receive an electrical control signal and adjust a pneumatic braking force depending on the received control signal.

[0019] The hand-held control device is suitably designed for the electrical control of the (pneumatic or electropneumatic) braking system. The hand-held control device can, in particular, be configured to generate and output at least one (electrical) control signal for controlling the (pneumatic or electropneumatic) braking system, especially the (pneumatic) braking force of the braking system.

[0020] By actuating the service brake control, the (absolute or relative) braking force of the towing vehicle generated by the service brake and the (absolute or relative) braking force of the trailer generated by the service brake can be (electrically) controlled (and / or influenced). By actuating the stretch brake control, the trailer braking force can be (electrically) controlled (and / or influenced), in particular exclusively.

[0021] The present disclosure thus provides, among other things due to the two operating elements as a structural unit, a simple and intuitive solution for the, in particular simultaneous, activation or control of the service brake and the electric stretch brake function during the driving operation of the motor vehicle combination.

[0022] Electrical controls, which generate electrical control signals for their respective functions, offer an advantage over conventional pneumatic controls in that no additional pneumatic lines are required in or on the cab of the vehicle combination. Instead, the trailer's braking system can be controlled electrically. This eliminates the need for a center console within the cab (i.e., at the driver's workstation) as well as additional pneumatic lines, resulting in space savings within the vehicle combination, particularly in the cab. Furthermore, the additional material costs and air consumption associated with additional pneumatic lines are also eliminated.

[0023] Providing the service brake control element and the stretch brake control element as a single structural unit also offers the advantage of simplified installation, e.g. in a dashboard of the vehicle combination.

[0024] Furthermore, the service brake control element can advantageously perform a dual function by allowing not only the service brake to be operated during the driving operation of the motor vehicle combination, but also the parking brake when the motor vehicle combination is not in driving operation.

[0025] According to a particular embodiment, the stretch brake control element can be arranged, preferably integrated and / or embedded, at least partially on or in a side surface of the service brake control element. This arrangement advantageously allows the user, especially the driver, to operate the service brake control element and the stretch brake control element simultaneously with one hand. Furthermore, it would be conceivable to integrate the stretch brake control element into an existing service brake control element.

[0026] According to one embodiment, pulling the service brake control can correspond to actuating the service brake control in the first direction. Pushing the extension brake control can correspond to actuating the extension brake control in the second direction. This allows the service brake control and the extension brake control to be advantageously actuated simultaneously with a single hand movement, for example, by pulling the service brake control with an index or middle finger and pushing the extension brake control with the thumb. At the same time, the different actuation directions ensure that actuating one control does not unintentionally actuate the other.

[0027] According to one design variant, the service brake control element can be designed as a pivotally mounted operating lever and / or the stretch brake control element can be designed as a button.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the operating lever can be pivotably arranged in a lever shell and the button can be arranged, at least partially, on or in a side surface of the operating lever facing away from the lever shell, preferably integrated and / or embedded.

[0029] The button can be arranged at least partially on or in an end area of ​​the operating lever where a pivot axis of the operating lever is formed.

[0030] The button can be located, at least partially, on or within a thumb resting surface of the operating lever.

[0031] The operating lever and the button can be arranged in such a way that the operating lever can be pivoted in the first direction of operation with an index and / or middle finger of a user's hand, and at the same time the button can be actuated in the second direction of operation with a thumb of the hand.

[0032] This allows the operating lever and especially the button to be operated in a particularly ergonomic way, especially simultaneously.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the service brake control element can be spring-loaded and automatically return to a non-actuated position after actuation to release the service brake. Alternatively or additionally, the stretch brake control element can be spring-loaded and automatically return to a non-actuated position after actuation to deactivate the electric stretch brake function. Thus, the user can easily and quickly release or deactivate the service brake or the electric stretch brake function by simply releasing the corresponding control element.

[0034] The service brake can be activated and / or applied as long as the service brake control (in the first direction of actuation) is actuated. The electric stretch brake function can be activated as long as the stretch brake control (in the second direction of actuation) is actuated.

[0035] It is also possible that the electric stretch brake function can only be activated or deactivated by actuating the stretch brake control in the second direction. In other words, an active electric service brake function can only be deactivated by actuating the stretch brake control again (and not simply by releasing it and the automatic return to a non-actuated position).

[0036] According to one embodiment, the hand-held operating device may also include a control device.

[0037] The control device can be configured to detect, during the operation of the vehicle combination, an actuation and deflection of the service brake control element in the first direction of actuation, and / or (during the operation of the vehicle combination) to detect an actuation of the stretch brake control element in the second direction of actuation. The electric stretch brake function can be activated, in particular, when an actuation of the stretch brake control element is detected.

[0038] The control device can be connected to the service brake control element or to a sensor via signal transmission to detect actuation and deflection of the service brake control element in the first actuation direction. The sensor can, for example, be configured to detect rotation of a pivot axis of the service brake control element. The control device can also be connected to the stretch brake control element or to a sensor via signal transmission to detect actuation, and preferably deflection, of the stretch brake control element in the second actuation direction.

[0039] The control device can further be configured to generate and output at least one control signal (during the operation of the vehicle combination) to modify the braking force generated by the service brake, depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element and preferably on whether the electric stretch braking function is activated. The level of the braking force of the braking system can be adjusted depending on the deflection of the service brake control element (from a non-actuation position to the first actuation direction). Thus, the hand control device advantageously serves to influence the braking force of the vehicle combination, e.g., by pivoting the control lever. The user can therefore individually control the strength and duration of the braking to suit a driving situation.

[0040] The control device can further be configured to generate and output at least one control signal to release the service brake when no actuation of the service brake control element and preferably no actuation of the stretch brake control element is detected.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the at least one control signal can comprise at least one tractor control signal for modifying a tractor braking force generated by the service brake, depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element, preferably substantially proportional to the detected deflection of the service brake control element. The at least one tractor control signal can be configured to modify, and in particular increase, the tractor braking force substantially proportional to the detected deflection of the service brake control element.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one control signal can include at least one trailer control signal for modifying a trailer braking force generated by the service brake, depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element, preferably substantially proportional to the detected deflection of the service brake control element, and on whether the electric stretch braking function is activated. The at least one trailer control signal can be configured to modify, and in particular increase, the trailer braking force substantially proportional to the detected deflection of the service brake control element and depending on whether the electric stretch braking function is activated.

[0043] With an activated electric stretch braking function, the trailer braking force can be increased (automatically) compared to a deactivated electric stretch braking function. With an activated electric stretch braking function, the brake force distribution between the towing vehicle and the trailer (and / or between the towing vehicle braking force and the trailer braking force) can be automatically shifted towards the trailer (and / or towards the trailer braking force).

[0044] This allows the user to easily and intuitively change the towing vehicle braking force and / or the trailer braking force by, for example, pulling the control lever to pivot it until the desired braking of the vehicle combination is achieved.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the at least one trailer control signal can be configured to change, in particular increase, the trailer braking force in a first deflection range, starting from a non-actuated position of the service brake control element, essentially proportional to the deflection of the service brake control element with a first proportionality factor, and / or to change, in particular increase, the trailer braking force in a second deflection range, essentially proportional to the deflection of the service brake control element with a second proportionality factor, wherein the first proportionality factor is greater than the second proportionality factor.

[0046] Thus, with a small deflection of the service brake control, the trailer can be braked more effectively; that is, the braking force distribution of the vehicle combination shifts towards the trailer, whereas with a larger deflection of the service brake control, up to the maximum deflection, the braking force distribution shifts towards the towing vehicle, but preferably only to the extent that the trailer braking force is always greater than the towing vehicle braking force. Furthermore, the trailer braking force is automatically increased when the electric stretch braking function is activated, without the user having to manually adjust or modulate the trailer braking effect. This ensures, among other things, that the trailer is neither under- nor over-braked.

[0047] The at least one trailer control signal can be configured to change the trailer braking force, when the service brake control is actuated without simultaneously actuating the stretch brake control, essentially proportionally to the deflection of the service brake control with a third proportionality factor, in particular to increase it, preferably with a larger proportionality factor than the towing vehicle braking force. With the electric stretch brake function deactivated, actuating the service brake control (while the vehicle combination is in operation) can trigger an electrical deceleration request to the braking system. The service brake control can (with the electric stretch brake function deactivated) have the same function as a foot brake pedal of the vehicle combination. Thus, the user can control the braking system of the vehicle combination by simply actuating the service brake control, e.g.,as an alternative to the foot brake pedal, for steering.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the first proportionality factor can be larger than the third proportionality factor and the second proportionality factor smaller than the third proportionality factor, preferably such that the trailer braking force at maximum deflection of the service brake control element is essentially the same when the service brake control element and the stretch brake control element are actuated simultaneously, and when the service brake control element is actuated without simultaneously actuating the stretch brake control element.

[0049] The trailer braking force can always be greater than the towing vehicle braking force, depending on the deflection of the service brake control element.

[0050] Furthermore, it is possible that the brake force distribution between the towing vehicle and the trailer can be shifted, preferably proportionally, depending on the deflection of the service brake control when the service brake and extension brake controls are actuated simultaneously. For example, the brake force distribution can shift towards the trailer or the towing vehicle with a greater deflection of the service brake control.

[0051] With a (small) deflection of the service brake control element, e.g. within the first deflection range, the trailer braking force can encompass the entire braking force (i.e., only the trailer of the motor vehicle combination brakes, but not the towing vehicle).

[0052] According to one embodiment, the control device can further be configured to receive at least one of the following parameters, preferably via an on-board network of the towing vehicle: - a tilt of the motor vehicle combination; - the activation of a foot brake pedal of the motor vehicle combination; - the weight of the trailer; - a weight ratio between the towing vehicle and the trailer; - the length of the trailer; - Positions of the trailer's wheel axles; - a position of a coupling point between the towing vehicle and the trailer; - a position of the trailer's center of mass; - a coefficient of friction between the wheels of the towing vehicle and / or the trailer and a road surface; - a steering angle; and / or - the speed of the motor vehicle combination.

[0053] The control device can further be configured to generate and output at least one control signal, in particular the trailer control signal, depending on at least one received parameter. The control device can be configured to adjust the first proportionality factor and / or the second proportionality factor depending on the at least one received parameter. Thus, the electric stretch braking function, and therefore the braking of the trailer, can advantageously be automatically adapted to a driving situation, e.g., when the vehicle combination requires a higher braking force when driving downhill (i.e., on a slope), or when a lower braking force is required due to the additional brake control via the foot brake pedal.

[0054] The at least one control signal can contain at least one control value and / or at least one control command. The at least one control value and / or at least one control command can be determined based on stored data, values, and / or characteristic maps, depending on the detected deflection of the service brake control element and preferably on whether the electric stretch braking function is activated. The stored data, values, and / or characteristic maps can additionally be determined depending on the at least one received parameter. The stored data, values, and / or characteristic maps can, for example, be stored in a memory of the control unit. The stored data and / or values ​​can include the first, second, and / or third proportionality factor.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the control device can further be configured to receive an actuation of a foot accelerator pedal and / or a handbrake function of the vehicle combination, preferably via the vehicle's electrical system. The control device can also be configured to deactivate the electric stretch braking function upon receiving an actuation of the foot accelerator pedal and / or the handbrake function, even if the stretch braking control element has also been activated. Thus, the electric stretch braking function, and therefore the braking of the trailer, can be advantageously overridden, for example, if the driver wishes to increase the speed of the vehicle combination or if the electric stretch braking function is unnecessary due to the additional braking control via the handbrake function.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the control device can further be configured to detect, when the vehicle combination is not in motion, an actuation of the service brake control element in the first actuation direction, and to generate and output at least one control signal for controlling a braking force generated by the parking brake when the service brake control element is actuated (when the vehicle combination is not in motion). This allows the hand control device, and in particular the service brake control element, to perform a dual function, enabling not only the service brake to be operated when the vehicle combination is in motion, but also the parking brake when the vehicle combination is not in motion.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the control device can further be configured to detect a deflection of the stretch brake control element in the second direction of actuation. The control device can also be configured, when the stretch brake control element is actuated and the service brake control element is not actuated, to generate and output at least one control signal to modify the trailer braking force generated by the trailer's service brake, depending on the detected deflection of the stretch brake control element (and preferably depending on at least one received parameter). Thus, in a suitable driving situation, the user can actuate only the electric stretch brake function and thereby brake only the trailer without braking the towing vehicle.If the service brake control element and the stretch brake control element can be actuated in different directions, it can also be easily ensured that the stretch brake control element can be actuated without the service brake control element being unintentionally actuated.

[0058] The control device can further be designed to generate and output at least one braking impulse to the trailer's braking system when the stretch brake control element is actuated and the service brake control element is not actuated, preferably depending on at least one received parameter.

[0059] According to a further general aspect of the invention, a method for operating a braking system with a service brake and a parking brake for a motor vehicle combination is provided. The method is preferably carried out by means of the hand-operated control device as disclosed herein, and in particular by means of the control unit as disclosed herein.

[0060] The method comprises detecting an actuation and deflection of a service brake control element in a first actuation direction, and detecting an actuation of a stretch brake control element in a second actuation direction. An electric stretch brake function is activated when an actuation of the stretch brake control element is detected.

[0061] The method further comprises generating and outputting at least one control signal to change a braking force generated by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element and preferably on whether the electric stretch brake function is activated.

[0062] To avoid repetition, features previously disclosed purely in accordance with the device should also be considered disclosed in accordance with the procedure and be claimable.

[0063] According to a further general aspect of the invention, a motor vehicle combination comprising a towing vehicle and a trailer is provided. The motor vehicle combination can, in particular, be a truck and trailer combination.

[0064] The motor vehicle combination comprises a hand control device as disclosed herein and a braking system with a service brake and a parking brake. The hand control device is connected to the braking system by means of signaling and / or electrical components.

[0065] The hand control device can be located inside the cab of the motor vehicle combination, in particular next to a steering wheel and / or on (or in) a dashboard.

[0066] The embodiments, variants, and features of the invention described above can be combined with one another as desired. Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic oblique view of a hand-held operating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2. A graphical representation of braking forces as a function of a deflection of a service brake control element of the hand control device; and Fig. 3 a procedure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a hand-held operating device 10 for operating a braking system with a service brake and a parking brake for a motor vehicle combination comprising a towing vehicle and a trailer. The service brake may expediently include a service brake for the towing vehicle and a service brake for the trailer.

[0068] The hand-operated control device 10 comprises a service brake control element 20, which can be actuated in a first actuation direction A for operating the service brake when the vehicle combination is in motion and preferably the parking brake when the vehicle combination is not in motion, and a stretch brake control element 30, which can be actuated in a second actuation direction B, preferably different from the first actuation direction A, for activating an electric stretch brake function of the braking system. The service brake control element 20 and the stretch brake control element 30 form a single structural unit.

[0069] The service brake control element 20 can be designed as a pivotably mounted control lever, which is e.g. pivotably arranged in a lever housing, and / or pulling the service brake control element 20 can correspond to actuation of the service brake control element 20 in the first actuation direction A.

[0070] The stretch brake control element 30 can be designed as a button and / or pressing the stretch brake control element 30 can correspond to actuation of the stretch brake control element 30 in the second actuation direction B.

[0071] Furthermore, the service brake control element 20 may be marked with a symbol 24 for the service brake and / or the parking brake. The stretch brake control element 30 may be marked with a symbol 32 for the electric stretch brake function.

[0072] The service brake control element 20 and the stretch brake control element 30 can be arranged in relation to each other in such a way that the service brake control element 20 and the stretch brake control element 30 can be operated simultaneously, in particular by one user with one hand.

[0073] For this purpose, the stretch brake control element 30 can be arranged at least sectionally on or in a side surface of the service brake control element 20, preferably integrated and / or embedded.

[0074] If the service brake control element 20 is designed as a control lever and the stretch brake control element 30 as a button, the button can be arranged, for example, at least partially on or in an end area of ​​the control lever where a pivot axis 22 of the control lever is formed, and / or at least partially on or in a thumb support surface of the control lever.

[0075] Furthermore, the operating lever and the button can be arranged in such a way that the operating lever can be pivoted in the first operating direction A with the index and / or middle finger of a user's hand, and simultaneously the button can be actuated in the second operating direction B with the thumb of the same hand. This ensures one-handed operation of the operating lever and the button.

[0076] The service brake and the electric brake extension function can be automatically released or deactivated by releasing the service brake control element 20 or the brake extension control element 30, respectively. For this purpose, the service brake control element 20 and / or the brake extension control element 30 can each be spring-loaded and automatically returned to a non-operating position.

[0077] The hand control device 10 further comprises a control unit 40, which is designed to generate and output at least one control signal during the driving operation of the motor vehicle combination to change a braking force generated by the service brake depending on a detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element 20 and preferably on whether the electric stretch brake function is activated.

[0078] The at least one control signal can comprise at least one tractor control signal for changing a tractor braking force generated by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element 20, preferably substantially proportional to the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element 20.

[0079] Furthermore, the at least one control signal can include at least one trailer control signal for changing a trailer braking force generated by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element 20, preferably substantially proportional to the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element 20, and on whether the electric stretch brake function is activated.

[0080] This shows Fig. 2 exemplary curves of the different braking forces depending on a deflection of the service brake control element 20.

[0081] The braking force curve H indicates the absolute braking force of the towing vehicle, which increases essentially proportionally to the deflection of the service brake control element 20.

[0082] The braking force curve l indicates the absolute trailer braking force when the service brake control element 20 and the stretch brake control element 30 are actuated simultaneously. In a first deflection range, extending from a non-actuated position of the service brake control element 20 to a deflection K, the trailer braking force increases essentially proportionally to the deflection of the service brake control element 20 with a first proportionality factor. In a second deflection range, extending from deflection K to a maximum deflection, the trailer braking force increases essentially proportionally to the deflection of the service brake control element 20 with a second proportionality factor. The first proportionality factor is, in particular, larger than the second proportionality factor.

[0083] The braking force curve J indicates the absolute trailer braking force when the service brake control element 20 is actuated without simultaneously actuating the stretch brake control element 30. The trailer braking force increases essentially proportionally to the deflection of the service brake control element 20 with a third proportionality factor, which is preferably larger than the proportionality factor for the towing vehicle braking force.

[0084] The first proportionality factor can be larger than the third proportionality factor and the second proportionality factor can be smaller than the third proportionality factor, preferably such that the trailer braking force at maximum deflection of the service brake control element 20 is essentially the same when the service brake control element 20 and the stretch brake control element 30 are actuated simultaneously, and when the service brake control element 20 is actuated without the stretch brake control element 30 being actuated simultaneously.

[0085] The control device 40 may, among other things, be designed to detect an actuation of the service brake control element 20 in the first actuation direction A when the motor vehicle combination is not in operation, and to generate and output at least one control signal for controlling a braking force generated by the parking brake depending on the detected actuation of the service brake control element 20.

[0086] In Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary method 100 for operating the braking system for a motor vehicle combination. The method is preferably carried out using the hand-operated control device 10, in particular the control unit 40.

[0087] In steps S1 and S2, an actuation and deflection of the service brake control element 20 in the first actuation direction A, and an actuation of the stretch brake control element 30 in the second actuation direction B, are detected. The electric stretch brake function is activated when an actuation of the stretch brake control element 30 is detected. Steps S1 and S2 can be performed independently of each other, in particular in arbitrary order or, in particular, simultaneously.

[0088] In step S3, at least one control signal is generated and output to change a braking force produced by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element 20 and preferably on whether the electric stretch brake function is activated.

[0089] Using the hand control device and the procedure, the user can manually adjust the towing vehicle braking force and / or the trailer braking force for a given driving situation, e.g. by additionally activating the stretch braking function and thus increasing the braking force on the trailer to prevent the vehicle combination from buckling when driving downhill.

[0090] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. Specifically, the individual features of the independent claims are each disclosed independently of one another. Additionally, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of the independent claims. Reference symbol list 10 Hand control device 20 Service brake control element 22 Swivel axis 24 Symbol for the service brake and / or the parking brake 30 Stretch brake control element 32 Symbol for the electric stretch brake function 40 Control unit 50 components 100 procedures A First direction of action B Second direction of operation H, I, J Braking force curve K deflection S1, S2, S3 Process step

Claims

[1] Hand control device (10) for operating a braking system with a service brake and a parking brake for a motor vehicle combination comprising a towing vehicle and a trailer, comprising: a service brake control element (20) that can be actuated to operate the service brake during the driving operation of the motor vehicle combination and in a first actuation direction (A); and a stretch brake control element (30) which can be actuated in a second actuation direction (B) to activate an electric stretch brake function of the brake system, wherein the service brake control element (20) and the stretch brake control element (30) form a structural unit, further comprising: a control device (40) which is designed to operate the motor vehicle combination during driving operation a) to detect an actuation and a deflection of the service brake control element (20) in the first actuation direction (A), b) to detect an actuation of the stretch brake control element (30) in the second actuation direction (B), wherein the electrical stretch brake function is activated when an actuation of the stretch brake control element (30) is detected, characterized by , that the control device (40) is designed, c) to generate and output at least one control signal to change a braking force generated by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element (20) and on whether the electric stretch brake function is activated. [2] Hand control device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the stretch brake control element (30) is arranged at least sectionally on or in a side surface of the service brake control element (20). [3] Hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a) pulling the service brake control element (20) corresponds to actuating the service brake control element (20) in the first actuating direction (A), and / or b) Pressing the stretch brake control element (30) corresponds to actuating the stretch brake control element (30) in the second actuating direction (B). [4] Hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the service brake control element (20) is designed as a pivotably mounted control lever and the stretch brake control element (30) is designed as a button. [5] Hand control device (10) according to claim 4, wherein a) the operating lever is pivotably arranged in a lever shell and the button is arranged at least partially on or in a side surface of the operating lever facing away from the lever shell, b) the button is arranged at least partially on or in an end area of ​​the operating lever on which a pivot axis (22) of the operating lever is formed, c) the button is located at least partially on or in a thumb resting area of ​​the operating lever, and / or d) the operating lever and the button are arranged in such a way that the operating lever can be pivoted in the first direction of operation (A) with an index and / or middle finger of a user's hand and at the same time the button can be actuated in the second direction of operation (B) with a thumb of the hand. [6] Hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a) the service brake control element (20) is spring-loaded and can be automatically moved to a non-actuating position to release the service brake after an actuation has ended, and / or b) the stretch brake control element (30) is spring-loaded and can be automatically moved into a non-operating position to deactivate the electric stretch brake function after an actuation has ended. [7] Hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a) the service brake control element (20) can be actuated in the first direction (A) for operating the parking brake when the motor vehicle combination is not in driving mode, and / or b) the second direction of operation (B) is different from the first direction of operation (A), and / or c) wherein the service brake control element (20) and the stretch brake control element (30) are arranged relative to each other such that the service brake control element (20) and the stretch brake control element (30) can be actuated simultaneously. [8] Hand control device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises at least one control signal: a) at least one tractor control signal for changing a tractor braking force generated by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element (20), and / or b) at least one trailer control signal to change a trailer braking force generated by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element (20), and on whether the electric stretch brake function is activated. [9] Hand control device (10) according to claim 8, wherein a) that at least one trailer control signal is configured to change the trailer braking force when the service brake control element (20) and the stretch brake control element (30) are actuated simultaneously, in a first deflection range starting from a non-actuated position of the service brake control element (20) in a first deflection range essentially proportional to the deflection of the service brake control element (20) with a first proportionality factor, and in a second deflection range essentially proportional to the deflection of the service brake control element (20) with a second proportionality factor, wherein the first proportionality factor is greater than the second proportionality factor, and / or b) that at least one trailer control signal is designed to change the trailer braking force substantially proportionally to the deflection of the service brake control element (20) with a third proportionality factor when the service brake control element (20) is actuated without simultaneous actuation of the stretch brake control element (30). [10] Hand control device (10) according to claim 9, wherein the first proportionality factor is greater than the third proportionality factor and the second proportionality factor is smaller than the third proportionality factor. [11] Hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (40) is further configured to receive at least one of the following parameters, and to generate and output the at least one control signal additionally depending on the at least one received parameter: - a tilt of the motor vehicle combination; - the activation of a foot brake pedal of the motor vehicle combination; - the weight of the trailer; - a weight ratio between the towing vehicle and the trailer; - the length of the trailer; - Positions of the trailer's wheel axles; - a position of a coupling point between the towing vehicle and the trailer; - a position of the trailer's center of mass; - a coefficient of friction between the wheels of the towing vehicle and / or the trailer and a road surface; - a steering angle; and / or - the speed of the motor vehicle combination. [12] Hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (40) is further configured to receive an actuation of a foot accelerator pedal and / or a handbrake of the motor vehicle combination, and to deactivate the electric stretch brake function when an actuation of the foot accelerator pedal and / or the handbrake is received despite the actuation of the stretch brake control element (30) being detected. [13] Hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (40) is further configured to function when the motor vehicle combination is not in operation. a) to detect an actuation of the service brake control element (20) in the first actuation direction (A), and b) to generate and output at least one control signal to control a braking force generated by the parking brake when the service brake control element (20) is actuated. [14] Hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (40) is further configured, a) to detect a deflection of the stretch brake control element (30) in the second direction of actuation (B), and, b) when the stretch brake control element (30) is actuated and the service brake control element (20) is not actuated, to generate and output at least one control signal to control the trailer braking force generated by the service brake of the trailer as a function of the detected deflection of the stretch brake control element (30). [15] Method (100) for operating a braking system with a service brake and a parking brake for a motor vehicle combination, wherein the method is carried out by means of a hand control device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, the method (100) comprising: a) Detection (S1) of an actuation and a deflection of a service brake control element (20) in a first actuation direction (A), b) Detection (S2) of an actuation of a stretch brake control element (30) in a second actuation direction (B), wherein an electrical stretch brake function is activated when an actuation of the stretch brake control element (30) is detected, characterized by , that c) at least one control signal to change a braking force generated by the service brake depending on the detected actuation and deflection of the service brake control element (20) and whether the electric stretch brake function is activated, is generated and output (S3). [16] Motor vehicle combination comprising a towing vehicle and a trailer, comprising: a hand-held operating device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 14; and a braking system comprising a service brake and a parking brake, wherein the hand control device (10) is connected to the braking system via signaling and / or electrical means.

Images