Axle arrangement with a locking body and method using such an axle arrangement

Abstract

Axle arrangement (3) for rotatably holding a wheel (2.l, 2.r), wherein the axle arrangement (3) - a holding axis (9) extending along a central axis (MA), - a locking body (4) and - comprises an actuating element (13), wherein the holding axle (9) is designed to support a wheel (2.l, 2.r) in such a way that the wheel (2.l, 2.r) - surrounds the holding axis (9) and - can rotate relative to the holding axis (9) about the central axis (MA) of the holding axis (9), wherein the locking body (4) relative to the holding axis (9) is between - a locking position in which at least a part of the locking body (4) projects radially beyond the holding axis (9), and - a release position in which the locking body (4) is arranged in alignment with the holding axis (9), can be moved back and forth and wherein the axle arrangement (3) is designed such that - a wheel (2.l, 2.r) can be moved, when the locking body (4) is in the release position, in a mounting direction (MR) parallel to the central axis (MA) into a position in which the holding axis (9) holds the wheel (2.1, 2.r), and - the locking body (4) in the locking position prevents the wheel (2.l, 2.r) from moving down from the holding axle (9) in a direction opposite to the mounting direction (MR), characterized in that the axle arrangement (3) comprises a shaft (14) extending along a rotational axis (DA), wherein the locking body (4) can be rotated back and forth relative to the holding axis (9) by one rotation about the axis of rotation (DA) between the locking position and the release position, wherein the shaft (14) - is guided through the holding axis (9), - is rotatable relative to the holding axis (9) about the rotation axis (DA) and - is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the locking body (4) and in a rotationally fixed manner to the actuating element (13), the rotational axis (DA) of the shaft (14) being parallel to the central axis (MA) of the holding axis (9), where a distance occurs between the two parallel axes (DA, MA), wherein a movement of the actuating element (13) causes the shaft (14) and the axis of rotation (DA) to be rotated, and wherein a rotation of the shaft (14) moves the locking body (4) from one position to the other position.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an axle assembly comprising a holding axle, the holding axle being capable of holding a wheel in such a way that the wheel can rotate relative to the holding axle, and a locking body that holds the wheel on the holding axle in a locked position. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for replacing an old wheel with a new wheel, wherein first the old wheel and then the new wheel are held by such an axle assembly.

[0002] An axle assembly with a holding axle for a wheel is known, for example, from DE 10 2009 010 083 A1. The axle assembly is attached to the rear of a detection vehicle. Two detection wheels 5 are each rotatably mounted on a detection wheel arm 13. Two balls each hold a detection wheel 5 on a holding axle on the detection wheel arm 13. A contaminated detection wheel 5 on a detection wheel arm 13 can be replaced with a replacement detection wheel 5'. To release the contaminated detection wheel 5 from the holding axle, the detection wheel arm 13 is pivoted upward. A locking body in the form of a ball locking pin is unlocked on an edge of a detection wheel magazine 1, whereby the two balls holding the detection wheel 5 are countersunk and the detection wheel 5 lies freely on the holding axle of the detection wheel arm 13. A gripper 8 grips the tracking wheel 5 and pulls it from the holding axle.It is also possible that the locking body has the form of a magnetically or electromagnetically triggered switching element, which holds a wheel releasably on the holding axle.

[0003] The axle arrangement of DE 10 2021 107 311 A1 also comprises two tracking wheels 2.1, 2.2, each rotatably mounted on a support axle 6.1, 6.2. The support axle 6.1, 6.2 is attached to the free end of a tracking wheel arm 1.1, 1.2. The tracking wheel 2.1, 2.2 is locked onto a pin of the tracking wheel arm 1.1, 1.2 using a locking body in the form of a ball lock pin. The ball lock pin can be unlocked, and with the ball lock pin unlocked, the tracking wheel 2.1, 2.2 can be pulled from the support axle 6.1, 6.2. The ball lock pin is unlocked as follows: A stop pin 15 actuates a release pin. The release pin unlocks the ball lock pin.

[0004] DE 40 00 009 A1 describes a device for releasing a wheel 1 from a wheel axle. A connecting element 10 is moved by means of a lever mechanism. By moving the connecting element 10, the wheel 1 is brought into or out of engagement with the wheel axle.

[0005] DE 43 38 495 C1 shows an axle arrangement in which a slotted bearing sleeve 5 can be inserted into the hub 1 of the wheel. The bearing sleeve 5 comprises a radially movable locking member 8. A control member 4 is axially movable relative to the bearing sleeve 5. A movement of the control member 4 causes the locking member 8 to be inserted into a groove 3a of the wheel axle 3.

[0006] The invention is based on the object of providing an axle assembly having the features of the preamble of claim 1, wherein the axle assembly is mechanically simpler than known axle assemblies. Furthermore, the invention is based on the object of providing a method having the features of the preamble of claim 13 for replacing an old wheel with a new wheel using such an axle assembly.

[0007] The object is achieved by an axle arrangement having the features of claim 1 and by a method having the features of claim 13. Advantageous embodiments of the axle arrangement according to the invention are, to the extent appropriate, also advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention and vice versa.

[0008] The axle assembly according to the invention comprises a support axle extending along a central axis. The axle assembly is capable of supporting a wheel such that the wheel can rotate relative to the support axle about the central axis of the support axle. The rotatably supported wheel surrounds the support axle. The support axle is guided through a corresponding, centered opening in the wheel.

[0009] The axle arrangement further comprises a locking body. The locking body is adjacent to the holding axle, optionally in such a way that a gap occurs between the locking body and the axle, and can be moved into a locking position and a release position. When the locking body is in the release position, the locking body is aligned with the holding axle. It is then possible for a wheel to be pushed onto the holding axle in one mounting direction or pushed or pulled off the holding axle in the opposite direction to the mounting direction, thereby pushing it over the locking body. During this movement, first the locking body and then the holding axle are pushed through the centered opening in the wheel. When the locking body is in the locking position, the entire locking body or at least part of the locking body projects laterally, i.e. radially, beyond the holding axle.The locking body thus limits the possible movement that a wheel can make on the support axle in a direction opposite to the mounting direction and, in particular, prevents the wheel from slipping off the support axle due to a movement opposite to the mounting direction.

[0010] The axle assembly further comprises a shaft and an actuating element. The shaft is non-rotatably connected to the locking body and non-rotatably connected to the actuating element. "Non-rotatably" means that neither the locking body nor the actuating element can rotate relative to the shaft. The shaft, and thus the locking body and the actuating element, are rotatable about the same axis of rotation. This axis of rotation of the shaft runs parallel to the center axis of the holding axis, with a distance between the two parallel axes. The shaft transmits rotation of the actuating element to the locking body.

[0011] The shaft passes through the internal portion of the support shaft. The support shaft is preferably hollow. In one embodiment, the support shaft comprises an elongated recess, and the shaft is received in this recess.

[0012] Rotation of the actuating element in a first direction of rotation causes the locking body to rotate from the locking position to the release position. Rotation of the actuating element in the opposite direction of rotation causes the locking body to rotate from the release position to the locking position. The two opposing directions of rotation lie in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Conversely, rotation of the locking body from the release position to the locking position causes the actuating element to rotate in the opposite direction of rotation.

[0013] In one embodiment, the actuating element can be directly actuated, i.e., rotated, by a person. It is also possible for a drive to rotate the actuating element. In another embodiment, an actuator can rotate the actuating element. The design with the actuator eliminates the need for a person or a drive to directly touch and rotate the actuating element. The actuator can be actuated by a person or by a drive. Preferably, the actuator is linearly movable in two opposite directions, namely toward the actuating element and away from the actuating element.

[0014] The method according to the invention makes it possible to replace an old wheel with a new one. Before replacement, the old wheel is rotatably held by the support axle of an axle assembly according to the invention; after replacement, the new wheel is rotatably held. First, the old wheel and then the new wheel surround the support axle and can rotate relative to the support axle about the center axis of the support axle.

[0015] Before replacing the wheel, the locking body is in the locking position and holds the old wheel on the retaining axle.

[0016] The method according to the invention comprises the following steps: - The actuating element is rotated in a release direction about the rotation axis. Preferably, a movement of an actuator causes the actuating element to be rotated in the release direction. Particularly preferably, the actuator is moved linearly toward the actuating element. It is also possible for a person to rotate the actuating element directly. - The rotation of the actuating element in the release direction causes the shaft to rotate around the axis of rotation. - The rotation of the shaft causes the locking body to rotate from the locking position to the release position. - The old wheel is moved in a pull-off direction, thereby removing it from the retaining axle. This pull-off direction runs parallel to the center axis of the retaining axle and opposite the mounting direction. - The new wheel is slid onto the retaining pin in the mounting direction, with the locking element still in the release position. After sliding, the retaining pin holds the new wheel in a rotatable position. - The actuating element is rotated again around the rotation axis in a direction opposite to the release direction. This rotation is preferably effected by a return element. - This rotates the locking body into the locking position. The locking body holds the new wheel on the retaining axle.

[0017] The axle arrangement according to the invention and the method according to the invention enable a particularly compact and mechanically simple design. In many cases, rotation of the locking body by a relatively small angle of rotation is sufficient to move the locking body from the release position to the locking position, in which the wheel is prevented from slipping off the holding axle, or vice versa from the locking position to the release position. It is sufficient that a part of the locking body projects radially beyond the holding axle in the locking position. Because the angle of rotation is relatively small, in many cases the locking body only needs to travel a relatively short distance when moving from one position to the other. The axle arrangement takes up little space, regardless of whether the locking body is in the locking position or in the release position.

[0018] Because the shaft passes through the inside of the holding axle, it cannot collide with the wheel and, in particular, cannot impair or even prevent the process of pulling an old wheel off the holding axle or pushing a new wheel onto the holding axle. The shaft also creates a gap between the locking body and the actuating element. This gap makes it possible to position the actuating element on the side of the holding axle facing away from the locking body and to actuate the actuating element from this side as well. The entire holding axle, or at least part of the holding axle, is located between the locking body on one side and the actuating element on the other side. This means that it is not necessary to directly touch the locking body in order to move it from one position to the other. Instead, the locking body can be actuated remotely.

[0019] According to the invention, the shaft extends through the interior of the retaining shaft. The preferably hollow retaining shaft thus completely or at least partially surrounds the shaft. The retaining shaft thus protects the shaft to a certain extent from contamination and mechanical damage.

[0020] The locking body is adjacent to the retaining axle in both positions. A gap inevitably occurs between the locking body and the retaining axle. However, this gap is preferably smaller than the maximum extension of a wheel on the retaining axle in a direction parallel to the center axis of the retaining axle. This prevents the wheel from slipping into the gap between the locking body and the retaining axle. This gap can, of course, be filled with a lubricant.

[0021] The locking body is preferably rotationally symmetrical and can have the shape of a cylinder. Preferably, however, the locking body comprises a tip. The tip preferably has the shape of a cone or a truncated cone and tapers in a direction away from the holding axis. The tip is preferably rounded. It is possible for the entire locking body to be designed as a tip. It is also possible for the locking body to comprise, in addition to the tip, a base part, preferably in the form of a disc. This base part is firmly connected to the tip and is located between the tip and the holding axis.

[0022] In many cases, the tip of the locking body facilitates the process of sliding a wheel onto the retaining axle in one mounting direction. During this movement, first the tip and then the retaining axle engage with the centered opening in the wheel. If the wheel is moved with a lateral offset to the center axis of the retaining axle and / or at an angle to or angled in the mounting direction, the tip guides the wheel and moves the wheel in a direction diagonal to the retaining axle, thereby centering it relative to the retaining axle. In addition, the tip reduces the risk of the wheel colliding with the locking body or the retaining axle when moving in the mounting direction, preventing it from being moved any further and / or damaging part of the axle assembly.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the axle arrangement comprises a return element, in particular a mechanical or pneumatic spring or another purely mechanical element. It is possible for the axle arrangement to comprise several return elements, in particular several springs. This return element is supported on the holding axle or on a holding element that is firmly connected to the holding axle. The return element is preferably connected to the actuating element. The return element strives to rotate the actuating element about the axis of rotation of the shaft in such a way that the locking element is moved into the locking position, is held in the locking position, and can only be moved away from this locking position against the force of the return element. It is also possible for the return element to be connected to the shaft or directly to the locking body.

[0024] The design with the return element does not require an actuator to hold the locking element in the locked position, nor does it require a drive for resetting. This design reduces the risk of the locking element being accidentally or unintentionally moved from the locked position, thereby creating the risk of a wheel slipping off the retaining axle. If the return element is connected to the actuating element, the return element can be located entirely outside the retaining axle.

[0025] In one embodiment, the locking body extends along a locking body axis. The locking body is preferably rotationally symmetrical to the locking body axis. The locking body axis runs parallel to the mounting direction in which a wheel can be pushed onto the holding axis. When the locking body is in the release position, the axis of the locking body preferably coincides with the center axis of the holding axis. When the locking body is in the locking position, a distance preferably occurs between the locking body axis and the center axis of the holding axis. The locking body axis is then preferably parallel to the center axis of the holding axis.

[0026] In one embodiment, the locking body axis coincides with the rotational axis of the shaft. In another embodiment, the locking body axis runs parallel to the rotational axis of the shaft, with a distance between these two parallel axes.

[0027] According to the invention, the rotational axis of the shaft runs parallel to the center axis of the holding axle in both positions of the locking body. In a plane perpendicular to these parallel axes, the locking body has a maximum dimension, preferably a maximum diameter. This maximum dimension is preferably the same size as or smaller than the maximum diameter of the holding axle, i.e. the maximum dimension of the holding axle in this plane. This configuration saves space and reduces the risk of the following undesirable event occurring: The locking body is in the release position, and a wheel is pushed off the holding axle against the mounting direction and collides with the locking body in the release position.

[0028] The design in which the locking body comprises a tip was already described above. The maximum dimension of this tip increases in a direction toward the retaining axle. In one design, the maximum diameter of the tip is equal to or greater than the maximum diameter of the retaining axle. This reduces the risk that a wheel, while being guided and centered by the tip during the process of being pushed toward the retaining axle, will collide with the retaining axle.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the actuating element extends along a longitudinal axis. For example, the actuating element has the shape of a cylinder, an ellipsoid, or even a cuboid. Preferably, the actuating element is rotationally symmetrical to this longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the actuating element is preferably perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the shaft. This embodiment results in a particularly compact design. A lever arm that is large relative to the dimensions is achieved.

[0030] The axle arrangement preferably additionally comprises a holding element, for example a holding plate in the form of a disk with a round or elliptical or n-sided cross-sectional area, where n >= 3. For example, this holding element can be fastened, preferably detachably, to a wheel arm or to a frame or to a body. The holding axle - or at least a section of the holding axle - is located between the locking body and the holding element. A wheel on the holding axle is then also located between the locking body and the holding element. A movement of the wheel parallel to the central axis of the holding axle is limited on one side by the holding element and on the other side by the locking body in the locking position. When the locking body is in the release position, a wheel can be moved in the assembly direction onto the holding axle and onto the holding element.Conversely, a wheel can be moved in the opposite direction, away from the retaining element and away from the retaining axle. Thanks to the retaining axle and the shaft, a gap is created between the retaining element and the locking body. Because the two directions of rotation in which the locking body can be moved are perpendicular to the central axis and perpendicular to the rotation axis, the risk of the moving locking body colliding with the retaining element is relatively low.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the shaft passes through the retaining element. The retaining element is located between the retaining shaft and the actuating element and is preferably in the form of a plate. It is possible for the retaining shaft to be rigidly connected to the retaining element. The retaining element thus protects the actuating element to a certain extent. The retaining element is preferably located between the actuating element and the retaining shaft.

[0032] According to the invention, the shaft is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the locking body and to the actuating element. In one embodiment, the locking body, the shaft, and the actuating element form a single component.

[0033] The invention further relates to a changing device comprising an axle assembly according to the invention and allowing a wheel to be changed, wherein the wheel is rotatably held by the retaining axle of the axle assembly. Advantageous embodiments of the axle assembly are also advantageous embodiments of the changing device with the axle assembly. The changing device further comprises an actuator for the actuating element of the axle assembly. The actuator can be moved relative to the actuating element, specifically from a rest position to an actuating position. Moving the actuator to the actuating position causes the following: - The actuating element is rotated around the axis of rotation, optionally against the restoring force of a return element. - This also causes the shaft to rotate around the axis of rotation. - This causes the locking body to move from the locking position to the release position.

[0034] Preferably, the actuator can be moved linearly from the rest position to the actuated position. The direction of this linear movement is parallel to the center axis of the support shaft. This design often results in a particularly compact design.

[0035] In one implementation, the actuator includes an inclined stop surface facing the actuating element. A sufficiently large movement of the actuator from the rest position causes the stop surface to contact the actuating element. Further movement of the actuator into the actuating position causes the stop surface to rotate the actuating element about the rotation axis, optionally against the force of the return element. In many cases, this design means that the actuator only needs to be moved a relatively short distance, and therefore the changeover device requires relatively little space.

[0036] The changeover device with the actuator for the actuating element allows the locking body to be moved remotely. The actuator only needs to touch and actuate the actuating element and does not need to come into direct contact with the shaft or the locking body. The invention enables a particularly simple and compact design of the changeover device.

[0037] In one embodiment, the actuator can be moved by a person. In another embodiment, the switching device additionally comprises a drive for the actuator, for example, a solenoid. The drive can move the actuator from the rest position to the actuated position, preferably upon receipt of an activation signal. The actuator can be located between the drive and the axis arrangement. The drive can preferably be activated by an external control, particularly preferably by a spatially distant signal generator.

[0038] In one implementation, a return element can move the actuating element back to the rest position. This return element is, for example, the one that also holds the locking body in the locked position. The human or the drive can move the actuating element against the force of the return element. Preferably, there is a gap between the actuator in the rest position and the actuating element.

[0039] In one embodiment, the changing device additionally comprises a gripper which is able to first grip the old wheel and then the new wheel and move it relative to the holding axis.

[0040] The invention further relates to a vehicle which - at least one wheel and - comprises a wheel arm and an axle arrangement according to the invention for each wheel. Thus, each wheel is assigned a wheel arm and an axle arrangement according to the invention. The wheel is rotatably held by the holding axle of the associated axle arrangement. The associated axle arrangement is held at a free end of the associated wheel arm. Thus, the wheel arm also holds the wheel. In an alternative embodiment, a wheel arm can hold two wheels at its free end, each with the aid of an axle arrangement according to the invention.

[0041] In one embodiment, the vehicle additionally includes an arm drive for each wheel arm. Thus, each wheel arm is assigned an arm drive. The assigned arm drive is capable of pivoting the wheel arm and thus also the axle assembly and the wheel, preferably around a horizontal axis. In particular, the arm drive is capable of pivoting the wheel arm upward against gravity.

[0042] In one embodiment, the vehicle comprises two wheels, two wheel arms, two axle arrangements according to the invention, and optionally two arm drives. A wheel is rotatably mounted at the free end of each wheel arm. Each wheel arm has an axle arrangement according to the invention that rotatably supports a wheel. Each arm drive is capable of pivoting the associated wheel arm independently of the or any other wheel arm. This enables, in particular, one wheel arm to be lowered and the wheel on this wheel arm to roll over a surface, while another wheel arm with another wheel is raised.

[0043] In one embodiment, the wheel or at least one wheel rolls over the ground when the associated wheel arm is lowered and the vehicle travels over the ground. The wheel or each wheel on a wheel arm functions as a sensing wheel and collects a soil sample from the ground. When the wheel arm is raised, an analysis device, preferably on board the vehicle or even externally, can analyze this collected soil sample. The wheel or each wheel on a wheel arm can also function as a feeler wheel and scan the profile of the ground.

[0044] In the following, the invention is described using an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 1 a part of a double wheel detector in which the invention is used; Fig. 2 the axle arrangement according to the invention with the locking body in the locking position; Fig. 3 the axle arrangement of Fig. 2 with the locking body in the release position; Fig. 4 in a perspective view the axle arrangement with the locking body in the locking position; Fig. 5 a sectional view along the axis of rotation through the axis arrangement of Fig. 4; Fig. 6 in a perspective view the axle arrangement with the locking body in the release position; Fig. 7 in a perspective view from a direction in which the actuating element points towards the viewer, the axle arrangement with the locking body in the locking position; Fig. 8 a sectional view perpendicular to the axis of rotation in the plane A - A of Fig. 5; Fig. 9 a sectional view perpendicular to the axis of rotation in the plane B - B of Fig. 5; Fig. 10 a sectional view perpendicular to the axis of rotation in the plane C - C of Fig. 5.

[0045] Fig. 1 shows a section of a double-wheel detection device 100. In one application, the invention is used in this double-wheel detection device 100.

[0046] The dual-wheel detection device 100 is mounted on the rear of a land vehicle (not shown). The land vehicle travels over a surface to be examined for toxic substances. The land vehicle travels in a direction of travel F over the surface to be examined. The terms "left" and "right" used below refer to this direction of travel F.

[0047] In Fig. 1 shows the following components of the double wheel detection device 100: - a left gauge wheel 2.l and a right gauge wheel 2.r, - a left gauge wheel arm 1.l and a right gauge wheel arm 1.r, - a left axle arrangement 3.l according to the invention and a right axle arrangement 3.r according to the invention, - a left housing 6.l and a right housing 6.r and - a left guide slot 7.l on the left housing 6.l and a right guide slot 7.r on the right housing 6.r.

[0048] In the direction of Fig. 1, the left sensing wheel arm 1.l is located in front of the right sensing wheel arm 1.r. The left sensing wheel 2.l is pivotally attached to the free end of the left sensing wheel arm 1.l using the left axle assembly 3.l. The right sensing wheel 2.r is pivotally attached to the free end of the right sensing wheel arm 1.r using the right axle assembly 3.r. Each sensing wheel arm 1.1, 1.r can be moved back and forth independently of the other sensing wheel arm 1.r, 1.l between a lowered and at least one raised position. In the example of Fig. In Figure 1, the left wheel arm 1.l is shown in a raised position, while the right wheel arm 1.r is shown in a lowered position. Because the right wheel arm 1.r is in the lowered position, the right wheel 2.r rolls over the subsoil and is capable of collecting a soil sample as the ground vehicle moves over the ground.

[0049] In this or a raised position, a soil sample previously collected by the left sensing wheel 2.l can be chemically analyzed by an analysis device on board the ground vehicle. Similarly, with the right sensing wheel arm 1.r raised, a soil sample can be analyzed on the right sensing wheel 2.r.

[0050] A drive in the left housing 6.l can rotate a left shaft 8.l, thereby raising and lowering the left sensing wheel arm 1.l along with the left sensing wheel 2.r. Similarly, a drive in the right housing 6.r can raise and lower the right sensing wheel arm 1.r along with the right sensing wheel 2.r. The two guide links 7.l and 7.r reduce the risk of a sensing wheel arm 1.l, 1.r colliding with a housing 6.l, 6.r during movement.

[0051] If a sensing wheel 2.l, 2.r has collected a large amount of a sample from the subsoil or has rolled a sufficiently large distance over the subsoil, it must be replaced. To do this, the old sensing wheel 2.1, 2.r is removed from the axle assembly 3.l, 3.r, and a new sensing wheel is pushed onto the axle assembly 3.l, 3.r.

[0052] The following figures show a single axle arrangement 3. In the exemplary embodiment, both the left axle arrangement 3.l and the right axle arrangement 3.r are constructed in the same way as the axle arrangement 3 according to the invention described below.

[0053] The axle assembly 3 comprises a cylindrical holding axis 9 and a locking body 4. The locking body 4 is rotationally symmetrical to a locking body axis AA. A tracking wheel 2.1, 2.r is guided over the holding axis 9 and can rotate about its own central axis relative to the holding axis 9. The holding axis 9 is guided through a circular recess in the center of the tracking wheel 2.1, 2.r, see. Fig. 1. The figures show the following: - Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 schematically shows the axle arrangement 3 with a locking body 4 described below in the locking position ( Fig. 2) or in the release position ( Fig. 3), - Fig. 4 in a perspective view the axle arrangement 3 with the locking body 4 in the locking position, - Fig. 5 a sectional view along the rotation axis DA through the axis arrangement 3 of Fig. 4, - Fig. 6 in a perspective view the axle arrangement 3 with the locking body 4 in the release position, - Fig. 7 in a perspective view from a different viewing direction the axle arrangement 3 with the locking body 4 in the locking position, - Fig. 8 a sectional view perpendicular to the axis of rotation in the plane A - A of Fig. 5, - Fig. 9 a sectional view perpendicular to the axis of rotation DA in the plane B - B of Fig. 5 and - Fig. 10 a sectional view perpendicular to the axis of rotation DA in the plane C - C of Fig. 5.

[0054] A retaining plate 10 limits the axial movement of the sensing wheel 2.l, 2.r along the retaining axis 9 away from the locking body 4. The retaining plate 10 functions as the retaining element of the exemplary embodiment and, in the illustrated implementation, has the shape of a disc. The retaining plate 10 is removably attached to the free end of a sensing wheel arm 1.l, 1.r using three screw connections 19.1, 19.2, 19.3. The retaining axis 9 is located between the locking body 4 and the retaining plate 10.

[0055] The locking body 4 can be moved relative to the holding axis 9 between a locking position, which is Fig. 2, and a release position shown in Fig. 3, back and forth. In the locking position, a portion of the locking body 4 projects radially beyond the holding axis 9. As a result, the locking body 4 locks the sensing wheel 2.1, 2.r on the holding axis 9 - except for an optional axial play of the sensing wheel 2.1, 2.r - or at least prevents the sensing wheel 2.1, 2.r from slipping away from the holding axis 9 due to a movement away from the holding plate 10. A gap occurs between the locking body axis AA and the center axis MA of the holding axis 9. When the locking body 4 is in the release position, the locking body 4 is aligned with the holding axis 9. The locking body axis AA then coincides with the center axis MA. When the locking body 4 is in the release position, a tracking wheel 2.l, 2.r can be pulled from the holding axis 9 and a new tracking wheel can be pushed on.

[0056] To replace a tracking wheel on the holding axis 9, the locking body 4 is first moved from the locking position to the release position. The old tracking wheel 2.l, 2.r is pushed or pulled from the holding axis 9. The new tracking wheel is pushed or pulled onto the holding axis 9 in an assembly direction MR. The locking body 4 is then moved back to the locking position.

[0057] A new sensing wheel is first slid over the locking body 4 and then pushed toward the holding plate 10 while the locking body 4 is in the release position. As can be seen in the figures, the locking body 4 comprises a conical tip 15 that widens towards the holding axis 9. This conical tip 15 guides a new sensing wheel while the new sensing wheel is slid over the locking body 4 toward the holding plate 10. During the step of moving the new sensing wheel in the assembly direction MR, the locking body 4 penetrates the circular opening in the sensing wheel 2.l, 2.r. This largely prevents the undesirable event of the new sensing wheel colliding with the holding axis 9 upon placement.

[0058] The locking body 4 further comprises a base part in the form of a plate 16, wherein the plate 16 is firmly connected to the tip 15 and is located between the tip 15 and the holding axis 9. The holding axis 9 extends along a central axis MA and is rotationally symmetrical to this central axis MA. Preferably, the diameter of the plate 16 and thus the largest diameter of the locking body 4 is the same size as or at most 10% smaller than the diameter of the holding axis 9. When the locking body 4 is in the release position ( Fig. 3), the locking body 4 is aligned with the holding axis 9. The two axes AA and MA coincide. When the locking body 4 is in the locking position ( Fig. 2), the locking body 4 protrudes laterally, i.e. radially, above the holding axis 9. A gap occurs between the parallel axes AA and MA. Any possible axial movement of a sensing wheel 2.l, 2.r on the axis arrangement 3 is limited on one side by the holding plate 10 and on the other side by the plate 16 of the locking body 4 if the locking body 4 is in the locking position. The locking body 4 in the locking position prevents the sensing wheel 2.l, 2.r from slipping off the holding axis 9.

[0059] The locking body 4 is moved from the locking position to the release position as follows: The locking body 4 is rotated in a release direction FR about a rotation axis DA, cf. Fig. 2, Fig. 7 and Fig. 10. The rotation axis DA is parallel to the central axis MA and at a distance from the central axis MA. In the corresponding viewing direction of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the locking body 4 is rotated in the release direction FR and counterclockwise from the locking position to the release position. This rotation takes place in a plane perpendicular to the central axis MA and perpendicular to the rotation axis DA. By rotating in the opposite direction, clockwise in the example shown, the locking body 4 is moved back from the release position to the locking position.

[0060] The following shows an example of a mechanism that moves the locking body 4 from one position to the other. The locking body 4 is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a shaft 14. As can be seen particularly well in Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the locking body 4 is mounted eccentrically on the shaft 14. A gap exists between the locking body axis AA, i.e., the axis of symmetry of the locking body 4, and the rotation axis DA of the shaft 14. This creates a larger lever arm for rotating the locking body 4 than if the two axes AA and DA were aligned.

[0061] In Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 shows a cylindrical hole 18 that extends through the shaft 14 and the plate 16. A screw or pin (not shown) is passed through this hole 18, which causes the locking body 4 to be connected to the shaft 14 in a rotationally fixed manner. The shaft 14 extends along the axis of rotation DA. As can be seen, a radial distance occurs between the axis of rotation DA and thus between the central axis of the shaft 14 on the one hand and the central axis of the locking body 4 on the other side. Rotation of the shaft 14 about its central axis DA transfers the locking body 4 from one position to the other.

[0062] As already mentioned, one end of the shaft 14 is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the locking body 4. The other end of the shaft 14 is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to an actuating element in the form of a cylindrical lever 13. A cylindrical hole 20 extends through the shaft 14 and through the lever 13. A screw or pin (not shown) is passed through this hole 20, which causes the shaft 14 to be connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the lever 13. The lever 13 extends along a longitudinal axis LA. This longitudinal axis LA is perpendicular to the rotational axis DA and thus perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 14.

[0063] The locking body 4, the shaft 14, and the lever 13 can rotate about the rotation axis DA. Two pin-shaped stop elements 11.1 and 11.2 are attached to the retaining plate 10, point toward the lever 13, and limit the possible rotation of the lever 13 about the rotation axis DA in both directions.

[0064] A spring 5 is supported on the holding plate 10 and engages in a recess 22 in the lever 13, which is particularly good in Fig. 4. The spring 5 tends to move the lever 13 into a position and to hold it in this position in which the following occurs: The lever 13 holds the shaft 14, and the shaft 14 holds the locking body 4 in the locking position. In the example of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the spring 5 thus tends to rotate the lever 13 clockwise and counter to the release direction FR described below about the rotation axis DA. The stop element 11.1 limits the rotation of the lever 13, which is caused by the spring 5.

[0065] In order to move the locking body 4 from the locking position to the release position, the shaft 14 and thus the lever 13 must be rotated against the force of the spring 5 and away from the stop element 11.1 around the axis of rotation DA, in the example of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, i.e., counterclockwise. The direction in which the locking body 4 and the rotation axis DA are rotated into the release position is indicated in some figures as the release direction FR. The spring 5 tends to rotate the lever 13 about the rotation axis DA in a direction opposite to the release direction FR. Rotation about the rotation axis DA in the opposite direction returns the locking body 4 to the locking position.

[0066] An actuator in the form of an unlocking slide 12 can be moved linearly in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation DA towards the axis arrangement 3, cf. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. In Fig. 2, the release slide 12 is shown in a rest position, in Fig. 3 in an actuating position. The release slide 12 has an inclined stop surface 17. A linear movement of the release slide 12 towards the axle arrangement 3 causes the inclined stop surface 17 to rotate the lever 13 against the force of the spring 5 in the release direction FR about the rotation axis DA, in the example of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, i.e., counterclockwise. This moves the locking body 4 from the locking position to the release position. The release slide 12 can be moved back to the rest position by a linear movement in the opposite direction.

[0067] In Fig. 2 and Fig.Figure 3 schematically shows a drive 21 for the release slide 12. This drive 21 takes the form, for example, of a piston-cylinder unit or a solenoid. The drive 21 is capable of moving the release slide 12 from the rest position into the actuated position and causing the inclined stop surface 17 to rotate the lever 13 against the force of the spring 5. Preferably, the spring 5 strives to move not only the lever 13 and thus the shaft 14 and the locking body 4, but also the development slide 12 into the rest position via the inclined stop surface 17.

[0068] It is possible for the lever 13 to touch the stop element 11.2 when the locking body 4 is in the release position. However, this is not absolutely necessary. A distance between the lever 13 and the stop element 11.2 is also possible. If the largest diameter of the locking body 4 is smaller than the diameter of the holding axis 9, it is not necessary for the locking body 4 to reach exactly a release position. Nevertheless, a new tracking wheel can be pushed over the locking body 4 in the assembly direction MR onto the holding axis 9 without colliding with the holding axis 9. List of reference symbols 1.1, 1.r left or right gauge wheel arm, carries the axle arrangement 3.1, 3.r and thus the gauge wheel 2.l or 2.r 2.l, 2.r left or right tracking wheel, mounted rotatably on the free end of the tracking wheel arm 1.l or 1.r using the axle arrangement 3.l, 3.r 3.l, 3.r, 3-axis arrangement, includes the holding plate 10, the holding axis 9, the locking body 4, the shaft 14, the lever 13, the spring 5, the screw connections 19.1, 19.2, 19.3, rotatably holds a tracking wheel 2.l, 2.r 4 locking body, comprises the conical tip 15 and the plate 16, is non-rotatably and eccentrically connected to the shaft 14, is rotationally symmetrical about the locking body axis AA 5 Spring, holds the locking body 4 in the locking position and preferably the release slide 12 in the rest position, is supported on the holding plate 10 6.l, 6.r left and right housing, each accommodates a drive for rotating a tracking wheel arm 1.l, 1.r 7.1, 7.r left and right guide rails, mounted on the housing 6.l and 6.r respectively 8.1, 8.r Shaft for the left or right tracking wheel arm 1.l or 1.r 9 Holding axis, through which the shaft 14 is guided, rotatably carries a tracking wheel 2.l, 2.r, extends along the central axis MA 10 Holding plate, limits the movement of the tracking wheel 2.l, 2.r away from the locking body 4, can be attached to a tracking wheel arm 1.l, 1.r 11.1, 11.2 Stop elements, limit a rotation of the lever 13 relative to the holding plate 10 about the axis of rotation DA 12 Release slide, can be moved linearly between a rest position and an actuated position, can rotate the lever 13 against the force of the spring 5, includes the inclined stop surface 17 13 cylindrical lever, non-rotatably connected to the shaft 14, extends along the longitudinal axis LA, can be actuated by the release slide 12, acts as an actuating element 14 Shaft inside the holding axis 9, on one side connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the locking body 4 and on the other side connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the lever 13, extends along the rotation axis DA 15 conical tip of the locking body 4, firmly connected to the plate 16 16 Plate of the locking body 4, firmly connected to the tip 15 and non-rotatably connected to the shaft 14 17 inclined stop surface of the release slide 12, contacts the release slide 12 18 cylindrical hole passing through the plate 16 and the shaft 14 and receiving a screw or pin that connects the locking body 4 to the shaft 14 in a rotationally fixed manner 19.1, Screw connections with which the holding plate 10 is attached to the 19.2, 19.3 Gauge wheel arm 1.1, 1.r is attached 20 cylindrical hole passing through the lever 13 and the shaft 14 and receiving a screw or pin that connects the shaft 14 to the lever 13 in a rotationally fixed manner 21 piston-cylinder unit, is able to move the release slide 12 towards the lever 13. 22 Recess in the lever 13, receives one end of the spring 5 100 double wheel tracing device, includes the two tracing wheel arms 1.l, 1.r, the two tracing wheels 2.l, 2.r, the two axle arrangements 3.l, 3.r, the two housings 6.1, 6.r and the two guide links 7.1, 7.r. AA Locking body axis, symmetry axis of the locking body 4, parallel to the rotation axis DA DA axis of rotation about which the lever 13 and the shaft 14 are rotatable relative to the holding axis 9, at the same time the longitudinal axis of the shaft 14, parallel to and spaced from the central axis MA F Direction of travel in which the land vehicle is traveling FR Release direction by which the lever 13, the shaft 14 and the locking body 4 are rotated to rotate the locking body 4 into the release position LA Longitudinal axis of the lever 13, is perpendicular to the axis of rotation DA MA Central axis of the holding axis 9, parallel to and spaced from the rotation axis MA MR Mounting direction in which a new tracking wheel can be pushed onto the holding axis 9

Claims

[1] Axle arrangement (3) for rotatably holding a wheel (2.l, 2.r), wherein the axle arrangement (3) - a support axis (9) extending along a central axis (MA), - a locking body (4) and - comprises an actuating element (13), wherein the holding axle (9) is designed to support a wheel (2.l, 2.r) in such a way that the wheel (2.l, 2.r) - surrounds the holding axis (9) and - can rotate relative to the holding axis (9) about the central axis (MA) of the holding axis (9), wherein the locking body (4) relative to the holding axis (9) is between - a locking position in which at least a part of the locking body (4) projects radially beyond the holding axis (9), and - a release position in which the locking body (4) is arranged in alignment with the holding axis (9), can be moved back and forth and wherein the axle arrangement (3) is designed such that - a wheel (2.l, 2.r) can be moved, when the locking body (4) is in the release position, in a mounting direction (MR) parallel to the central axis (MA) into a position in which the holding axis (9) holds the wheel (2.1, 2.r), and - the locking body (4) in the locking position prevents the wheel (2.l, 2.r) from moving down from the holding axis (9) in a direction opposite to the mounting direction (MR), characterized by that the axle arrangement (3) comprises a shaft (14) extending along an axis of rotation (DA), wherein the locking body (4) can be rotated back and forth relative to the holding axis (9) by one rotation about the axis of rotation (DA) between the locking position and the release position, wherein the shaft (14) - is guided through the holding axis (9), - is rotatable relative to the holding axis (9) about the rotation axis (DA) and - is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the locking body (4) and in a rotationally fixed manner to the actuating element (13), the rotational axis (DA) of the shaft (14) being parallel to the central axis (MA) of the holding axis (9), where a distance occurs between the two parallel axes (DA, MA), wherein a movement of the actuating element (13) causes the shaft (14) and the axis of rotation (DA) to be rotated, and wherein a rotation of the shaft (14) moves the locking body (4) from one position to the other position. [2] Axle arrangement (3) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the locking body (4) comprises a tip (15) in the form of a cone or a truncated cone, wherein the tip (15) tapers in a direction away from the holding axis (9). [3] Axle arrangement (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the axle arrangement (3) comprises a return element (5), in particular a spring, wherein the return element (5) - is supported on the holding axis (9) or on a holding element (10) connected to the holding axis (9) and - strives to rotate the shaft (14) about the axis of rotation (DA) in such a way that the rotated shaft (14) moves the locking body (4) into the locking position. [4] Axle arrangement (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the locking body (4) extends along a locking body axis (AA), wherein, when the locking body (4) is in the release position, the locking body axis (AA) coincides with the central axis (MA) of the holding axis (9), and wherein preferably the locking body (4) is rotationally symmetrical to the locking body axis (AA). [5] Axle arrangement (3) according to claim 4, characterized by , that the locking body axis (AA) runs parallel to the rotation axis (DA) of the shaft (14), where a distance occurs between these two parallel axes (AA, DA). [6] Axle arrangement (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the maximum dimension of the locking body (4) in a plane perpendicular to the two parallel axes (DA, MA) is equal to or smaller than the maximum diameter of the holding axis (9) in this plane. [7] Axle arrangement (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the actuating element (13) extends along a longitudinal axis (LA), wherein the longitudinal axis (LA) of the actuating element (13) is perpendicular to the axis of rotation (DA) of the shaft (14). [8] Axle arrangement (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the axle arrangement (3) comprises a holding element (10), wherein the holding axis (9) is located between the locking body (4) and the holding element (10), wherein the holding element (10) limits an axial movement of a wheel (2.l, 2.r) on the holding axis (9) in the mounting direction (MR) and wherein the locking body (4) in the locking position limits an axial movement of a wheel (2.1, 2.r) on the holding axis (9) in the direction opposite to the mounting direction (MR). [9] Changing device for changing a wheel (2.l, 2.r), wherein the changing device - an axle arrangement (3) according to one of the preceding claims and - comprises an actuator (12), wherein the holding axle (9) of the axle arrangement (3) is designed to rotatably support the wheel (2.l, 2.r), wherein the actuator (12) is movable relative to the actuating element (13) from a rest position to an actuating position, and wherein the changeover device is designed such that a movement of the actuator (12) into the actuating position causes - the actuating element (13) is rotated about the axis of rotation (DA) and - the resulting rotation of the actuating element (13) moves the locking body (4) into the release position. [10] Changing device according to claim 9, characterized by , that the actuator (12) can be moved linearly from the rest position to the actuating position, wherein the direction of this linear movement is parallel to the central axis (MA) of the holding axis (9). [11] Vehicle comprising - at least one wheel (2.l, 2.r), - one wheel arm (1.l, 1.r) for each wheel (2.l, 2.r) and - per wheel (2.l, 2.r) one axle arrangement (3) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the or each wheel (2.l, 2.r) is rotatably held by the holding axle (9) of the associated axle arrangement (3), wherein the associated axle arrangement (3) is held at a free end of the associated wheel arm (1.l, 1.r), [12] Vehicle according to claim 11, characterized by , that the vehicle additionally comprises one arm drive (6.1, 6.r) for each wheel arm (1.l, 1.r), wherein the arm drive (6.1, 6.r) assigned to a wheel arm (1.l, 1.r) is designed to pivot the wheel arm (1.1, 1.r) together with the axle arrangement (3) and the wheel (2.l, 2.r), preferably around a horizontal axis. [13] Method for replacing an old wheel (2.1, 2.r) with a new wheel, wherein before replacement the old wheel (2.1, 2.r) and after replacement the new wheel is rotatably held by an axle arrangement (3), wherein the axle arrangement (3) - a holding axis (9) extending along a central axis (MA), - a locking body (4) and - comprises an actuating element (13), wherein before replacement the old wheel (2.1, 2.r) and after replacement the new wheel is carried by the support axle (9) in such a way that the wheel - surrounds the holding axis (9) and - can rotate relative to the holding axis (9) about the central axis (MA) of the holding axis (9), wherein the locking body (4) is in a locking position before the wheel (2.l, 2.r) is replaced, in which at least a part of the locking body (4) projects radially beyond the holding axis (9), the method comprising the steps of - the locking body (4) is moved from the locking position into a release position in which the locking body (4) is aligned with the holding axis (9), - the old wheel (2.l, 2.r) is removed from the holding axle (9) in a pulling direction parallel to the central axis (MA) of the holding axle (9), - the new wheel is pushed onto the holding axle (9) in a mounting direction (MR) opposite to the removal direction, such that after the displacement, the holding axle (9) holds the new wheel rotatably, and - the locking body (4) is moved from the release position back into the locking position, characterized by , that the axle arrangement (3) comprises a shaft (14) extending along an axis of rotation (DA), wherein the shaft (14) - is guided through the holding axis (9) and is connected to the locking body (4) and - is connected to the actuating element (13) in a rotationally fixed manner, the axis of rotation (DA) of the shaft (14) running parallel to the central axis (MA) of the holding axis (9), where a distance occurs between the two parallel axes (DA, MA), wherein before the step of removing the old wheel (2.1, 2.r) from the support axle (9), the steps are carried out that - the actuating element (13) is rotated in a release direction (FR) about the rotation axis (DA), - the rotation of the actuating element (13) causes the shaft (14) to rotate about the axis of rotation (DA), and - the rotation of the shaft (14) causes the locking body (4) to be rotated from the locking position to the release position, and wherein after the step of pushing the new wheel onto the holding axle (9), the steps are carried out that - the actuating element (13) is rotated about the axis of rotation (DA) in a direction opposite to the release direction (FR), - the rotation of the actuating element (13) causes the shaft (14) and the axis of rotation (DA) to rotate, and - the rotation of the shaft (14) causes the locking body (4) to be rotated from the release position back into the locking position. [14] Method according to claim 13, characterized by , that the axle arrangement (3) comprises a return element (5), in particular a spring, wherein the return element (5) - is supported on the holding axis (9) or on a holding element (10) connected to the holding axis (9) and - strives to rotate the shaft (14) about the axis of rotation (DA) in such a way that the rotated shaft (14) moves the locking body (4) into the locking position, wherein the step of rotating the actuating element (13) in the release direction (FR) about the axis of rotation (DA) comprises the steps of an actuator (12) is moved relative to the axis arrangement (3) from a rest position to an actuating position and a movement of the actuator (12) into the actuating position causes - the actuating element (13) is moved around the rotation axis (DA) against the force of the return element (5) and - the resulting rotation of the actuating element (13) moves the locking body (4) into the release position and wherein the step of rotating the actuating element (13) in the direction opposite to the release direction (FR) about the axis of rotation (DA) comprises the steps of - the actuator (12) is moved from the actuating position to the rest position and - the return element (5) rotates the actuating element (13) around the axis of rotation (DA) in the direction opposite to the release direction (FR).

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