Railway vehicle brake, especially for freight wagons, with monitoring device, and method for monitoring a railway vehicle brake

Abstract

A railway vehicle brake (1), particularly for freight wagons, comprises a brake linkage (1a) with brake shoes (5), a brake cylinder (3), a linkage adjuster (4), and a monitoring device (10). The monitoring device (10) has detection units (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9) with respective sensors (71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 77, 81, 82, 90), which are supplied with electrical energy by accessing an electrical power supply network of an associated railway vehicle. A railway vehicle and a method for monitoring a railway vehicle brake 1 are provided.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a railway vehicle brake, in particular for freight wagons, with a monitoring device according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention also relates to a railway vehicle and a method for monitoring a railway vehicle brake.

[0002] There are two traditional braking systems for freight wagons, both referred to as profile braking systems. The older version has a separate brake cylinder and a separate linkage adjuster, also called a follower. The newer version integrates the brake cylinder and linkage adjuster into a single unit. Both of these braking systems are also known as tread or profile brakes and feature brake shoes that contact the wheel treads during braking.

[0003] The present invention relates to a railway vehicle brake as a braking system for freight wagons as a running surface brake unit with integrated linkage adjuster unit (CFCB), or individual linkage adjuster unit (brake linkage with linkage adjuster and brake cylinder).

[0004] To monitor the railway vehicle brake, several measurements can be taken, which can lead to the extraction of real-time status information and the automation of manually performed processes.

[0005] Measuring systems in braking systems serve, among other things, to determine the correct function of a brake before and during operation. Brake tests are generally among the prescribed standard procedures before a rail vehicle is put into service. It must be ensured that all brakes are operational.

[0006] Currently, the brake status is checked in most cases by visually inspecting the brake pad clearance and / or manually moving the brake pads or shoes. Additionally, pad loss and pad wear are checked.

[0007] Due to the mechanical couplings used in freight wagons, there is currently no electrical power supply available via the couplings. The European Union, however, has committed to replacing traditional screw couplings with Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) systems as part of its "Green Deal." This will enable the installation of detector / detection systems in freight wagons. Furthermore, conventional passenger cars and special-purpose rail vehicles can also benefit from these advantages.

[0008] Several non-standard techniques exist for deriving information about the correct functioning of a brake in both stationary and moving rail vehicles. In some cases, the brake status is inferred from the movement of a brake actuator under standard conditions, such as a piston. Furthermore, not only can correct function be detected, but also brake pad wear.

[0009] Evaluating the signals provided by detection units and transmitting information about the proper functioning of the brakes requires electrical energy for operation and therefore access to the rail vehicle's electrical power supply network. The Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) will make this possible for freight trains as well.

[0010] The object of the invention is therefore to create a railway vehicle brake, in particular for freight wagons, with a monitoring device, and a method for monitoring a railway vehicle brake.

[0011] This task is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0012] One idea in the invention is to use detector systems in freight wagons as well.

[0013] A railway vehicle brake according to the invention, particularly for freight wagons, comprises a brake linkage with brake shoes, a brake cylinder, a linkage adjuster, and a monitoring device. The monitoring device has detection units with respective sensors, the electrical energy supply of which is provided by accessing an electrical power supply network of an associated railway vehicle.

[0014] A particular advantage here is that the monitoring device with the detection units, which are assigned to the respective functional groups brake linkage, brake cylinder, linkage adjuster, etc., enables simple and comprehensive monitoring of a railway vehicle brake.

[0015] Another advantage is that multiple measurements are taken to monitor the rail vehicle brake, which can lead to the extraction of real-time status information and the automation of manually performed processes.

[0016] A rail vehicle according to the invention, in particular a freight wagon, has the rail vehicle brake described above.

[0017] A method according to the invention for monitoring a railway vehicle brake described above, in particular a freight wagon, comprises the following process steps: (VS1) providing a railway vehicle brake with a monitoring device including detection units and connecting the sensors of the detection units to an electrical power supply network of the railway vehicle with a digital automatic coupler (DAC); (VS2) generating respective electrical signals from the sensors of the detection units depending on the states of the railway vehicle brake; and (VS3) monitoring the signals thus obtained and comparing the received signals in an evaluation unit with previously stored reference values ​​and outputting the results of the comparison in optical, acoustic, haptic and / or electronic form. These signals can also be transmitted wirelessly, e.g. by radio, ultrasound, infrared, etc.

[0018] In this way, multiple measurements can be advantageously carried out to monitor the rail vehicle brake, e.g. from a central location, in order to extract real-time status information.

[0019] A particular advantage is that processes previously performed manually can be automated, resulting in time savings.

[0020] Further advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0021] In one configuration, the electrical power supply network of the rail vehicle features Digital Automatic Couplers (DACs). This allows the electrical power supplies of freight wagons within a train to be easily established and coupled using the DACs.

[0022] In another embodiment, a first detection unit is assigned to the linkage adjuster and has at least one sensor that detects a stroke between a cylinder housing of the linkage adjuster and a position of an actuating rod of the linkage adjuster. This allows for advantageously simple detection of a brake condition.

[0023] The adjustment stroke is the distance between a first housing end of the cylinder housing of the linkage adjuster and an adjustment head, which is rigidly connected to the adjusting rod of the linkage adjuster. This allows the adjustment stroke to be determined conveniently and easily.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the first detection unit is provided with a sensor arranged radially with its active side relative to the actuating rod, and / or a further sensor arranged axially with its active side relative to the actuating rod. Proximity switches or inductive distance sensors can advantageously be used here. However, other sensors, such as electromechanical distance detectors, are also possible.

[0025] The additional sensor could, for example, be a redundant sensor for verifying the plausibility of the signals from the first sensor.

[0026] The advantage here is that the sensors are inexpensive, e.g. also available as standard components with high quality and precision.

[0027] If at least one sensor, or both sensors, are attached directly or indirectly to the stationary control rod, a suitably compact design results. A further advantage is that the sensor is located on the bogie or underframe of the rail vehicle, meaning that the electrical cable does not move during train operation and can therefore be very robust.

[0028] Another embodiment provides for a second detection unit with at least one sensor assigned to the linkage adjuster, wherein the at least one sensor is arranged on a stationary protective tube of an adjusting spindle of the linkage adjuster and detects the position of the movable adjusting spindle. In this way, the brake status can be determined advantageously and easily.

[0029] In another embodiment, the adjusting spindle is provided with at least one marking detectable by at least one sensor, the position of which corresponds to a wear condition of the brake pads. This is an advantageously compact and simple design.

[0030] In a further embodiment, a third detection unit with at least one sensor is assigned to the linkage adjuster. This sensor is attached to a movable adjusting spindle of the linkage adjuster and detects the distance to a stationary reference point, which is attached directly or indirectly to a stationary protective tube. This distance is proportional to the actual thickness of the brake lining. The advantage of this design is that it allows for a simpler construction.

[0031] Another embodiment provides for a fourth detection unit with at least one sensor to be assigned to the linkage adjuster, wherein the at least one sensor is arranged in a housing between a first rod section of the adjusting rod and a second rod section of the adjusting rod of the linkage adjuster, the housing being arranged in series between the rod sections of the adjusting rod. This results in an advantageously compact mounting on the linkage adjuster with a small space requirement.

[0032] It is also advantageous if the first rod section is rigidly connected at its end to an adjusting head and at its other end to the housing, wherein the second rod section is mounted in alignment with the first rod section in the housing so as to be directly or indirectly longitudinally displaceable, since only minor changes to existing components are necessary.

[0033] In another embodiment, the housing and the second section of the actuating rod form a telescopic mechanism with a small stroke, typically around 1 mm, which actuates the sensor via a pivot lever. This allows for a conveniently simple mechanical adjustment to the sensor's actuation stroke.

[0034] In this arrangement, an end face of the second rod section, which points towards the first rod section, is in contact with the pivoting lever, which in turn contacts an actuator of at least one sensor. The advantage of this design is its small footprint.

[0035] In a further embodiment, a fifth detection unit with at least one sensor is assigned to the linkage adjuster. The sensor is housed in a bore of the adjusting head and interacts with a section of a cylinder housing, thus detecting a home position and a brake position. An advantage of this design is that the sensor is protected from external influences, particularly stone chips, within the adjusting head.

[0036] Another advantage is that simple attachment, especially axial fixation, of the sensor in the bore is possible.

[0037] It is advantageous if the sensor is arranged in a sleeve, as the sensor can be pre-assembled with the sleeve and thus be installed and replaced more easily.

[0038] Another design features an angled bore for the actuator head relative to the actuator rod. This is advantageous for easy installation and for positioning the active side of the sensor relative to the cylinder housing. Furthermore, the sensor's connecting cable can be attached very close to the actuator rod and routed safely inside a car body.

[0039] In another embodiment, a sixth detection unit is assigned to the brake cylinder and has at least one sensor that detects the position of a piston rod of the brake cylinder and is permanently attached to the brake cylinder. In this way, the status of the brake cylinder can be determined advantageously and easily.

[0040] The sixth detection unit comprises a sensor arranged radially with its active side relative to the piston rod of the brake cylinder and another sensor arranged axially with its active side relative to the piston rod of the brake cylinder, with the sensors interacting with a reference attached to the movable piston rod of the brake cylinder. This results in an advantageously simple and compact design.

[0041] The "active side" of the sensor is the side that exhibits the greatest sensitivity for detecting objects (inductively, optically, mechanically). In the case of electromechanical switches, this is the side where an actuator or similar component is located.

[0042] In yet another embodiment, at least one further detection unit with at least one sensor is assigned to at least one suspension point of the brake linkage, wherein the mounting points of the suspensions are fixed points to which associated components of the brake linkage are pivotally hinged, and the pivoting movements of these components in relation to the braking process and the actual wear condition of the brake pads are detected by the at least one sensor. This results in an advantageously simple detection of the wear condition.

[0043] In this system, at least one sensor can be configured as an angle sensor. Such components are readily available on the market, cost-effective, and offered in high quality and precision. They can be designed, for example, as inductive sensors, potentiometers, or Hall-effect sensors, but any other method capable of determining the actual position can also be used.

[0044] In one embodiment of the procedure, the third step, VS3 Monitoring, provides for the monitoring of the received signals in three modes: first, monitoring only during a brake test at the start of operation; second, monitoring during braking; and third, continuous monitoring. This offers the advantage of easy adaptation to different applications.

[0045] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The invention is not limited to these exemplary embodiments. In particular, individual features of the following exemplary embodiments can be used not only in this embodiment but also in other exemplary embodiments. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a schematic symbolic representation of an embodiment of an arrangement of a railway vehicle brake with a monitoring device according to the invention; Fig. 2 a schematic view of a linkage adjuster of the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 1; Fig. 3 a schematic sectional view of a first detection unit of the embodiment according to Fig. 1; Fig. 4-5 schematic sectional views of a second acquisition unit and a third acquisition unit thereof; Fig. 6-10 schematic sectional views of a fourth acquisition unit; Fig. 11-14 schematic views of a fifth acquisition unit; Fig. 15-16 schematic partial sectional views of brake cylinders; Fig. 17 a schematic partial sectional view of a brake cylinder with a sixth detection unit; and Fig. 18 a schematic flowchart of a method according to the invention for monitoring a railway vehicle brake.

[0046] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic symbolic representation of an embodiment of a rail vehicle brake 1 according to the invention with a monitoring device 10.

[0047] In Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic view of a linkage adjuster 4 of the embodiment according to Fig. 1 shown.

[0048] The rail vehicle brake 1 is shown here as a profile brake system for a rail vehicle (not shown, but easily imaginable), for example, a freight wagon, with wheels 2. The rail vehicle brake includes an individual linkage adjuster 4, also referred to as an adjuster or adjusting device. In addition, a handbrake 6 for manual operation is provided as a locking option.

[0049] It is also possible, though not shown here, that the linkage adjuster 4 can be integrated into the brake cylinder 3 in a single unit. The rail vehicle brake 1 is also referred to as a tread or profile brake, in which brake pads 5 contact the treads of the wheels 5 during braking.

[0050] The brake cylinder 3 and the linkage adjuster 4 work together with a brake linkage 1a which is not described in detail and which is articulated in suspensions 1b on a frame of the rail vehicle which is not shown.

[0051] Furthermore, the rail vehicle brake 1 comprises a monitoring device 10 with detection units 7, 8, 9 and an evaluation unit 11. Detection unit 7 is assigned to the linkage adjuster 4 and detection unit 8 to the brake cylinder 3. Additional detection units 9 are also provided, each of which is assigned to a suspension 1b.

[0052] The mountings of the suspensions 1b are fixed points to which the associated components of the brake linkage 1a are pivotally attached. The pivoting movements of these components are proportional to the braking process and the actual wear condition of the brake pads 5.

[0053] The detection units 9 each have a sensor 90. The sensor 90 is designed, for example, as an angle sensor. Such a measuring device or angle sensor can be, for example, an inductive sensor, a potentiometer, or a Hall-effect sensor; however, any other method can also be used that is capable of determining the actual angular position of the respective component of the brake linkage 1a, which is articulated at a respective suspension point, and outputting it as an electrical signal.

[0054] The other recording units 7, 8 of the monitoring device 10 will be described in detail below.

[0055] The linkage adjuster 4 compensates for excessive or insufficient play, also known as brake pad clearance, in the brake blocks 5 of profile-braked or tread-braked rail vehicles. The linkage adjuster 4 reacts automatically when the rail vehicle brake 1 is applied.

[0056] The linkage adjuster 4 is a double-acting unit for use in rail vehicles with running surface brakes.

[0057] Double-acting means that the linkage adjuster 4 automatically corrects both excessive and insufficient brake clearance to the desired value. Excessive brake clearance occurs, for example, when the brake pads 5 or the wheel treads 2 are worn, whereas insufficient brake clearance can occur after replacing the brake pads 5.

[0058] Excessive brake clearance is corrected quickly and reliably after one brake application, while insufficient clearance is corrected after two brake applications. Linkage adjusters 4 are available in various mounting lengths with different adjustment capacities.

[0059] The linkage adjuster 4 automatically adjusts the brake pads 5, thus ensuring a constant brake clearance that is unaffected by wear or the replacement of brake pads 5 across the entire adjustment range. The piston stroke of the brake cylinder 3 remains nearly constant, and air consumption is low. The linkage adjuster 4 operates independently of the elastic deflection of the brake linkage 1a caused by the braking force.

[0060] In this example, the linkage adjuster 4 comprises an adjusting spindle 40, a guide nut tube 41, a tab 42, a cylinder housing 43, a protective tube 44, sealing rings 45 and 45a, an adjusting rod 47 and an adjusting head 48. The adjusting head 48 is also referred to as a control lever.

[0061] The adjusting spindle 40 is arranged in the guide nut tube 41, which is connected to a first tube end 41a with a first spindle end 40a of the adjusting spindle.

[0062] The first housing end 43a of the cylinder housing 43 is closed by a first sealing ring 45. The first sealing ring 45 has a central opening through which the guide nut tube 41 extends with its first tube end 41a and the first spindle end 40a of the adjusting spindle 40, and protrudes from the first housing end 43a of the cylinder housing 43.

[0063] The second sealing ring 45a forms a seal for the guide nut tube 41a to the outside. An outer surface of a plate of the first sealing ring 45 faces a mounting section 48a of the adjusting head 48 and has a stop surface 43c.

[0064] The adjusting head 48, with its mounting section 48a, is attached to the first tube end 41a of the guide nut tube 41, which protrudes from the first housing end 43a. The adjusting head 48 has a bore for the adjusting rod 47, the end of which of a rod section 47a of the adjusting rod 47 protrudes from the adjusting head 48 towards the side of the cylinder housing 43. The adjusting rod 47 is firmly connected to the adjusting head 48 by its rod section 47a.

[0065] The mounting section 48a is rigidly connected to the adjusting head 48 and also has a bore through which the first tube end 41a of the guide nut tube 41 extends. This first tube end 41a is thus slidably guided in the bore of the mounting section 48a of the adjusting head 48 in the longitudinal direction of a central axis of the guide nut tube 41 and thus of the cylinder housing 43 relative to the mounting section 48a of the adjusting head 48.

[0066] The common central axis of adjusting spindle 40, guide nut tube 41 and cylinder housing 43 and the central axis of the adjusting rod 47 are arranged parallel to each other.

[0067] The tab 42 is attached to the first tube end 41a of the guide nut tube 41 (see Fig. 3).

[0068] The adjusting spindle 40 extends through the cylinder housing 43 from its first housing end 43a through the housing 43, further through a second housing end 43b and the protective tube 44, with a second spindle end 40b of the adjusting spindle 40 protruding relatively far from a free end of the protective tube 44.

[0069] The protective tube 44 is attached to the second housing end 43b of the cylinder housing 43, with the adjusting spindle 40 extending through the protective tube 44 and protruding from its free end (see also Fig. 4, Fig. 5) The free end of the protective tube 44 is connected to a second sealing ring 45a, which enables a seal to the protruding adjusting spindle 40.

[0070] The guide nut tube 41 surrounds the adjusting spindle 40 for approximately three-quarters of the total length of the cylinder housing 43 and, with its second tube end 41b, interacts with an unnamed guide nut and a coupling K4.

[0071] Coaxial to the adjusting spindle 40, unnamed compression springs and further couplings K1, K2, K3 are arranged one behind the other in the cylinder housing 43, the function of which will not be described further here.

[0072] For the design and function of an exemplary linkage adjuster 4, reference is made, for example, to documents DE 28 35 305 A1 and EP 36 568 A1.

[0073] When the rail vehicle brake 1 is released, all parts of the linkage adjuster 4 are in their rest position. The distance, here an actuating stroke H, between the stop surface 41c at the first housing end 43a of the cylinder housing 43 of the linkage adjuster 4 and a surface 48b of a projection 48c of the mounting section 48a of the actuating head 48 corresponds to a vehicle-specific actuating travel of the rail vehicle brake 1.

[0074] The coupling K3 is held in engagement by the preload force of first compression springs against the pressure of a second compression spring; likewise the coupling K1, whereby the pressure of the first compression springs is transferred via the cylinder housing 43 to a feed nut VM.

[0075] When braking is initiated, the force of the brake cylinder 3 acts on the tab 42 and pulls the entire linkage adjuster 4 ( Fig. 1) by the amount of the adjustment stroke H towards the fastening section 48a of the adjusting head 48 ( Fig. 2).

[0076] The brake pads 5 actually act on the wheels 2 when the cylinder housing 43 with its stop surface 43c rests against the surface 48b of the mounting section 48a of the adjusting head 48 (see Fig. 3).

[0077] The cylinder housing 43 itself is not yet pressed firmly against the mounting section 48a of the adjusting head 48. The force of the brake cylinder 3 is transmitted to the adjusting spindle 41 via the first compression springs, the cylinder housing 3, the coupling K1 and the feed nut VM ( Fig. 2).

[0078] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic sectional view of a first detection unit 7 of the embodiment according to Fig. 1 dar.

[0079] In the Fig. Figure 3 shows the first spindle end 40a of the adjusting spindle 40, the first tube end 41a of the guide nut tube 41 and the adjusting head 48 with its fastening section 48a in section.

[0080] Furthermore, the fastening of the tab 42 to the first tube end 41a of the guide nut tube 41 and the fastening of the adjusting rod 47 with its rod section 47a are shown.

[0081] The first detection unit 7 here comprises a holder 70, a first radial sensor 71 with connecting cable 71a and a second axial sensor 72 with connecting cable 72a.

[0082] The function of the first detection unit 7 is to measure or detect the position of the adjusting rod 47.

[0083] The bracket 70 is attached to the actuator 48 by a fastening 70a. A retaining section 70b of the bracket 70 extends between the fastening section 48a of the actuator 48 and the tab 42 over the tube end 41a of the guide nut tube 41. The sensors 71 and 72 are attached to the retaining section 70b. It is possible that only one of the sensors 71 or 72 is attached, but this does not allow for precise position determination, as explained below.

[0084] The first sensor 71 is attached to the retaining section 70b of the bracket 70 such that the active, i.e., sensitive, side is located radially above the area of ​​the actuating stroke H. This area is the area between the stop surface 41c at the first housing end 43a of the cylinder housing 43 of the linkage adjuster 4 and the surface 48b of the projection 48c of the mounting section 48a of the actuating head 48. The first sensor 71 is arranged such that the sensing area of ​​the active side points towards the tube end 41a of the guide nut tube 41 with a small radial sensing distance to the outer surface of the cylinder housing 43 of the linkage adjuster 4.

[0085] The second sensor 72 is attached to the retaining section 70b of the bracket 70 with its active side facing the stop surface 43c of the cylinder housing 43. In other words, the second sensor 72 is axially aligned with respect to the central axis of the cylinder housing 43, with its active side lying in a plane that is offset by a certain axial dimension towards the tab 42 with respect to the surface 48b of the projection 48c of the mounting section 48a of the adjusting head 48.

[0086] The cylinder housing 43, which is fitted with a cover (not shown), moves within the range of the adjusting stroke H relative to the adjusting rod 47 during the air clearance adjustment. A stop position of the stop surface 43c of the cylinder housing 43 on the surface of the projection 48c of the mounting section 48a of the adjusting head 48 is in Fig. 3 shown with a dashed line. Therefore, the braking condition of the rail vehicle brake 1 can be monitored based on the currently measured distance of the actuating stroke H between cylinder housing 43 and the actuating rod 47.

[0087] As soon as the housing end 43a of the cylinder housing 43 enters the detection range of the first (radial) sensor 71, the sensor outputs a signal. This indicates that the actuating stroke H has changed. However, it does not indicate that the housing end 43a is contacting the surface 48b of the projection 48c of the mounting section 48a of the actuating head 48.

[0088] A second signal is required for this. This is provided by the second, axial sensor 72, which only generates a signal when the housing end 43c of the cylinder housing 43 is at the stop of the surface 48b and simultaneously enters the detection range of the second sensor 72.

[0089] The second, axial sensor 72 can also be configured for measuring the distance to the stop surface 43b of the cylinder housing 43. In other words, the second, axial sensor 72 can perform a measurement of the actuating stroke H.

[0090] The sensors 71, 72 can be inductive sensors, for example, but any other method can also be used that is able to determine the actual position of the cylinder housing 43 in relation to the actuating rod 47.

[0091] The advantage is that the sensor(s) 71, 72 are located on the bogie or underframe of the associated rail vehicle (not shown), so that the connecting line(s) 71, 72 do not move during train operation and the connecting line(s) 71, 72 can therefore be very robust.

[0092] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a second acquisition unit 7a, and in Fig. Figure 5 shows a sectional view of a third acquisition unit 7b.

[0093] Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows the area of ​​the second housing end 43b of the cylinder housing 43 with the protective tube 44 and the adjusting spindle 40 movable therein as already described above.

[0094] A second detection unit 7a includes a third sensor 73 with a connecting cable 73a and a holder for the sensor 73.

[0095] The protective tube 44 is a fixed point, i.e., stationary. During the air clearance adjustment, the adjusting spindle 40 performs an axial movement in the protective tube 44, so that the braking condition and / or the wear condition of the brake pads 5 can be monitored based on the distance measured between the third sensor 73 and a mark on the adjusting spindle 40.

[0096] The sensor 73 can, for example, be an inductive sensor, but any other method capable of determining the actual position 40c, 40d, 40e of the marking on the adjusting spindle 40 can also be used. Fig. Figure 4 shows three exemplary positions 40c, 40d, and 40e. Position 40c corresponds to the condition with new brake pads 5, position 40d to the condition with brake pads 5 that are approximately half worn, and position 40e to the maximum permissible wear of the brake pads 5.

[0097] The sensor 73 is attached to its holder, which here is a body of the second sealing ring 45a, such that its active side is arranged radially to the central axis of the adjusting spindle 40.

[0098] It is also possible that three sensors 73 are arranged at axial distances from each other, with each of the three sensors 73 corresponding to or signaling an associated wear state of the brake pads 5 when the mark on the adjusting spindle 40 is detected by this sensor 73.

[0099] Fig. Figure 5 shows a third recording unit 7b.

[0100] The difference between the third detection unit 7b and the second detection unit 7a lies in the arrangement of a fourth sensor 74 with its connecting cable 74a, which is attached to the adjusting spindle 40 by a bracket 74b on a section protruding from the protective tube 44.

[0101] The fourth sensor 74 interacts with a reference 74c attached to the sealing ring 45a of the stationary protective tube 44 by measuring a distance HA between the active side of the fourth sensor 74 and this reference 74c. The reference 74c can, for example, be a metal ring attached to the second sealing ring 45a. The second sealing ring 45a can also be formed integrally with the reference 74.

[0102] The distance measured in this way is proportional to the actual thickness of the brake pad 5.

[0103] The measuring device or the fourth sensor 74 can, for example, be an inductive sensor, but any other method capable of determining the distance HA can also be used.

[0104] In Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a fourth acquisition unit 7c.

[0105] Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic enlarged representation of area VII, X from Fig. 6.

[0106] Fig. Figure 8 shows a side view of the fourth acquisition unit 7c.

[0107] Fig. Figure 9 shows a schematic perspective view of the fourth recording unit 7c.

[0108] In Fig. Figure 10 is an enlarged partial side view of the fourth acquisition unit 7c of area VII, X from Fig. 67c shown.

[0109] The fourth detection unit 7c forms a measuring device for a telescopic stroke measurement of the adjusting rod 47.

[0110] The fourth detection unit 7c comprises a housing 12, with bores 12a, 12b, 12c, recesses 13, 14 and a bushing 15

[0111] The adjusting rod 47 is divided here and has two components, namely the rod section 47a and another rod section 47b.

[0112] The housing 12 is arranged in series with the two rod sections 47a and 47b of the adjusting rod 47.

[0113] The housing 12 forms a telescopic mechanism with the second actuating rod section 47b of the actuating rod 47, which will be explained below.

[0114] The rod section 47a is rigidly connected to the adjusting head 48 at its free end as described above. The other end of the rod section 47a is received in a first bore 12a in an end face 12d of the housing 12, which faces the adjusting head 48, and secured in the housing 12, for example by means of a thread, bolt, or similar. The first bore 12a is a blind bore.

[0115] The second bore 12b and the third bore 12c are formed into the housing 12 with a step-off from the other end face 12e. The bores 12a, 12b, 12c and the adjusting rod 47 have a common central axis 47e. A step 12f is arranged between the second bore 12b and the third bore 12c.

[0116] The second rod section 47b of the adjusting rod 47 is inserted into the second bore 12b with its end pointing towards the adjusting head 48. A force storage element 16 is arranged between the step 12f of the stepped bores 12b, 12c and a circumferential collar 47c on the second rod section 47b. The second bore 12b has a bottom 12g.

[0117] The bushing 15 is inserted into the third bore 12c, with a circumferential collar at the free end of the bushing 15 forming an axial fixation of the bushing 15 in the third bore 12c. The second rod section 47b is inserted into an inner bore 15a of the bushing 15 such that the end pointing towards the adjusting head 48 contacts the circumferential collar 47c of the second rod section 47b.

[0118] The second rod section 47b is axially displaceable and rotationally secured within the bushing 15 in its inner bore 15a. In this example, a key is used to prevent rotation.

[0119] The second rod section 47b is provided with a suitable protective element 15b, e.g., a bellows, opposite the bushing 15, to prevent the ingress of moisture and foreign objects. The fastening of the bellows 15a, e.g., with hose clamp(s), is not shown, but is easily conceivable.

[0120] The first force storage element 13 is a compression spring and exerts a force on the second rod section 47b via the circumferential collar 47c. This presses the axially displaceable second rod section 47b against the stationary bushing 15. This creates a gap between the end face 47d of the second rod section 47b and the bottom 12g of the second bore 12b, which forms an axial play AS of the second rod section 47b with respect to the bushing 15.

[0121] The housing 12 has a first recess 13 and a second recess 14, both molded into the housing 12 from the underside.

[0122] The first recess 13 contains a sensor 75, which will be described in more detail below, part of a pivot lever 20, and a power storage element 17. The second recess 14 accommodates the pivot lever 20.

[0123] The end face 47d of the second rod section 47b is in contact with the pivot lever 20, which can be pivoted about a pivot axis 19. The energy storage element 17, here a compression conical spring, presses the pivot lever 20 against the end face 47d of the second rod section 47b.

[0124] The pivot lever 20 comprises two lever arms 20a, 20b. A front side of the pivot lever 20 points towards the adjusting head 48, a rear side in the opposite direction.

[0125] The pivot lever 20 is in its actuated (pivoted) position in Fig. 6 and Fig. 10 shown as dashed lines.

[0126] The first lever arm 20a contacts the end face 47d of the second rod section 47b via a projection 20d. The force of the energy storage element 17 is introduced into a further projection 20c on the front of the second lever arm 20b. An end region of the rear of the second lever arm 20b is in contact with an actuator 75a of the sensor 75.

[0127] The pivot axis 19 of the pivot lever 20 can be located at one end of the first lever arm 20a (see Fig. 6) or between the first lever arm 20a and the second lever arm 20b (see Fig. 7) be arranged. In the latter embodiment, a force storage element 18 is provided, which engages the rear of the second lever arm 20b.

[0128] Fig. Figure 7 represents the geometric relationships of the fourth recording unit 7c.

[0129] The second rod section 47b is in rest position, the axial play AS between the bottom 12g of the second bore 12b of the housing 15 and the end face 47d of the second rod section 47b is at its maximum.

[0130] The axial play AS in this example is approximately 1 to 2 mm.

[0131] The actuator 75a of the sensor 75 is at rest with an actuator play BS.

[0132] The first lever arm 20a of the pivot lever 20 has a length with dimension a, which is smaller by a certain factor than a length with dimension b of the second lever arm 20b.

[0133] The actuator play BS is calculated from the axial play AS and the dimensions a and b of the lever arms 20a, 20b as follows: AB=AS*(b / a)

[0134] When the rail vehicle brake 1 is applied, the actuating rod of the linkage adjuster 4 is pressed.

[0135] If the adjusting rod has a small-stroke telescopic mechanism (the stroke is the axial play AS of approximately 1 mm), the adjustment function is not affected, and this stroke can be used to actuate sensor 75 of the third sensing unit 7c. Sensor 75 provides a signal that is used to detect the brake release function.

[0136] The pivot lever 20 has the function of sensing and multiplying the small stroke of the second rod section 47b, i.e., the actuating rod 47, because the actuator 75a has the actuating play BS and a large hysteresis (see description above). In this way, it is possible that only a small force is exerted on the actuator 75a when actuated by the energy storage element 17, since it is designed only for small forces.

[0137] The stroke of the second rod section 47b, i.e., the adjusting rod 47, must be kept small, otherwise the adjusting function of the linkage adjuster 4 will be negatively affected. For this reason, an increase in stroke is necessary through the transmission of the pivot lever 20.

[0138] Sensor 75 can be an electromechanical switch. In the example shown, two sets of contacts are embedded in a plastic switch housing. These sets of contacts can be actuated together by means of actuator 75a and here have a normally closed contact (terminals 1 / 2) and a normally open contact (terminals 3 / 4).

[0139] Instead of an electromechanical switch, the sensor 75 can also be based on a different principle, e.g. a semiconductor switch or the like, or be a combination of different principles.

[0140] Fasteners, electrical cables, hose clamps and bellows are not shown, but easily imagined.

[0141] Fig. Figures 11-14 show schematic views of a fifth detection unit 7d in the area of ​​the actuator 48. Fig. 1

[0142] Fig. Figure 11 shows a schematic perspective partial view of the fifth detection unit in a basic position in which no braking takes place.

[0143] In Fig. 12 is the fifth detection unit 7d together with the actuating head 48 after Fig. 11 shown in a partial sectional view.

[0144] Fig. 13 represents the fifth detection unit 7d with the actuating head 48 according to Fig. 11 is shown in a schematic perspective partial view in a braking position.

[0145] Fig. Figure 14 shows a partial sectional view of the fifth detection unit 7d together with the actuating head 48. Fig. 13.

[0146] The adjusting head 48 is as in Fig. 3 shown with the rod section 47a of the adjusting rod 47 connected. Likewise, the connection of the fastening section 48a of the adjusting head 48 to the guide nut tube 41 is as shown in Fig. 3 executed.

[0147] In contrast to the first recording unit 7 after Fig. 3 here includes the fifth detection unit 7d, a sleeve 76 and a sensor 77. In this example, the sensor 77 is designed as an inductive sensor.

[0148] The fifth detection unit 7d is received in the installed state in an obliquely arranged continuous bore 48d of the actuating head 48 in a connecting section of actuating head 48 and fastening section 48a.

[0149] The bore 48d of the adjusting head 48 has a first opening AB and a second opening EB. The first opening AB faces the cylinder housing 43 of the linkage adjuster 4, while the second opening EB faces the tab 42.

[0150] The obliquely arranged continuous bore 48d runs at an angle to the guide nut tube 41 and the adjusting rod 47, wherein a distance of the first opening AB of the bore 48d to the adjusting rod 41 is greater than a distance of the second opening EB of the bore 48d to the adjusting rod.

[0151] The sensor 77 has an active, i.e. sensitive, end face 77a and a connection face 77b with a cable protection tube 77c.

[0152] The sensor 77 itself is pre-assembled in the sleeve 76 (with cable protection tube 77c). A connecting cable of the sensor 77, not shown but easily imaginable, extends from its connection section 77b through the cable protection tube 77c towards the actuating rod 47.

[0153] To install the fifth detection device 7d, the sleeve 76 with the sensor 77, with its end face 77a leading, is inserted into the bore 48d through the second opening EB of the bore 48d into the adjusting head 48 until the active end face 77a of the sensor 77 is positioned in the first opening AB of the bore 48d and in the Fig. 11 and Fig. The basic position shown in 12 is arranged close to the stop surface 43c of the cylinder housing 43 for interaction with it.

[0154] After positioning the sleeve 76 with the sensor 77 in the bore 48d, the sleeve 76 is axially fixed. This can be done, for example, by means of a set screw which is screwed into a mounting boss 48e and secures the sleeve by positive locking.

[0155] The advantage of this design and arrangement of the fifth detection unit 7d is that the sensor 77 is very well protected against stone chips and other external influences. Furthermore, the connecting cable can be attached very close to the actuating rod 47 and routed to the car body in a well-protected manner.

[0156] If the connecting cable of sensor 77 is damaged or if sensor 77 is defective, the sleeve 76 with the sensor 77 can be easily removed from the bore 48d of the adjusting head 48 and completely replaced. This is also possible in the field, as the sleeve 76 with the sensor 77 can be replaced very easily without special tools or using standard tools.

[0157] In the Fig. 11, Fig. In the basic position shown in Figure 12, in which no braking takes place, this state can be achieved by means of the fifth detection unit 7d by the sensor 77 with its active front face 77a sensing the stop surface 43c of the cylinder housing 43 and generating a signal which is assigned to this state.

[0158] In the braking position ( Fig. 13, Fig. 14) the active end face 77a of the sensor 77 of the fifth detection unit 7d is removed from the stop surface 43c of the cylinder housing 43, whereby the sensor 77 is no longer activated or no longer sensing a stop surface 43c and accordingly no signal is generated.

[0159] Of course, sensor 77 can also be designed so that it does not generate a signal when activated in the home position, but does so in the braking position.

[0160] Fig. Figure 15 shows a schematic partial sectional view of a typical brake cylinder 3 in conjunction with an external linkage return spring. The brake cylinder 3 has a cylinder body 22 with a connection 28 and a cylinder cover 23. A longitudinally movable piston 24a is arranged in a cylinder liner 24, which divides the cylinder liner 24 into a working chamber 24b and a free chamber 24c. A piston return spring 27 is integrated into the cylinder. A piston seal 25 seals the working chamber 24b from the unloaded cylinder chamber 24c. A mounting frame 21 serves to attach the brake cylinder 3 to the vehicle or bogie frame. Since a piston rod 26 can pivot freely through a small angle in any direction, it adapts to any required lateral deflection without obstruction.

[0161] For braking, i.e., for a braking operation, the piston 24a is pressurized with compressed air, which flows through the port 28 into the working chamber 24b and moves the piston 24a against the force of the piston return spring 27. The piston rod 26 is carried along by this movement and transmits the movement of the piston 24a to the brake linkage 1a.

[0162] To release the brake, the brake cylinder 3, i.e., the working chamber 24b, is vented, and the piston return spring 27 pushes the piston 24a back into its starting position. The linkage return spring 27a, located outside the brake cylinder 3 (not shown here, but imaginable), causes the brake linkage 1a and the piston rod 26 to follow the piston 24a.

[0163] Fig. Figure 16 shows a schematic partial sectional view of a typical brake cylinder 3 with a built-in linkage return spring 27a.

[0164] The brake cylinder 3, which is in Fig. The design shown in 17 is similar in structure to the version shown in the following. Fig. 15 and also consists of cylinder body 22 with connection 28 to the working chamber 24b and cylinder cover 23. In addition to the piston 24a and cylinder liner 24, the piston rod 26 and the piston return spring 27, the cylinder body 22 also contains the linkage return spring 27a. As with the previously conventional brake cylinder 3, the piston seal 25 also seals the working chamber 24b from the unloaded cylinder chamber 24c.

[0165] The linkage return spring 27a, additionally installed in the cylinder bushing 24, is supported at one end by a guide plate 29, which is held on the piston rod 26 by a cylindrical pin 29a, and at the other end by a ring 29b and pins 29a, which are held on the cylinder bushing 24 by a bayonet fitting. The linkage return spring 27a forcibly locks the piston rod 26 against the piston 24a to prevent any free movement.

[0166] The braking function of brake cylinder 3 according to Fig. 16 is identical to that of brake cylinder 3 of the previous type after Fig. 15. To release the brake, the brake cylinder 3 is vented and the piston return spring 27 returns the piston 24a to its starting position. The linkage return spring 27a, integrated into this type of brake cylinder, forcibly locks the piston rod 26 against the piston 24a, thus moving the brake linkage 1a smoothly to its starting position.

[0167] When the handbrake 6 is applied, the piston rod 26 is pulled out of the piston 24a and the cylinder liner 24 against the force of the linkage return spring 27a without taking the piston 24a with it. When the brake is released, the brake linkage 1a is returned to its initial position by the force of the linkage return spring 27a.

[0168] It is noted that when the handbrake 6 is applied, the linkage forces the piston rod 26 to move, so that the sensors which detect the movement of the piston rod 26 also detect the activated (braked) handbrake 6, which is very important for the function of the brake test.

[0169] In Fig. Figure 17 is a schematic partial sectional view of a brake cylinder 3 with a sixth detection unit 8.

[0170] The sixth detection unit 8 forms a condition monitoring system for the piston rod 26 of the brake cylinder 3.

[0171] The piston rod 26 moves when the rail vehicle brake 1 is applied or released. Therefore, the braking status of the rail vehicle brake 1 can be observed based on the piston rod status. The term "piston rod status" refers to the state of the piston rod 26, which can be "retracted" and "extended," as well as intermediate states and a state of movement.

[0172] The state "retracted" here means that the rail vehicle brake 1 is released. The rail vehicle brake 1 is applied when the piston rod 26 has reached the state "extended".

[0173] The sixth detection unit 8 comprises a holder 80, a radial sensor 81, an axial sensor 82 and a reference 80d.

[0174] The bracket 80 is attached here to the free end of the cylinder cover 23 by means of a clamping ring 80a. The bracket 80 carries both sensors 81, 82.

[0175] Reference 80d is a metal plate attached to a free end of a holder 80c. The holder 80c is an angled element whose short leg is fastened to the piston rod 26, which protrudes from the free end of the cylinder cover 23, by means of a clamping ring 80b. The long leg of the angled element extends radially along the piston rod 26.

[0176] The radial sensor 81 is attached to the bracket 80 in such a way that its active side is aligned radially to the piston rod 26 and thus to the reference 80d at a necessary distance.

[0177] The axial sensor 82 is attached to the bracket 80 such that its active side is axially parallel to the piston rod 26 and aligned at a necessary distance to the reference 80d.

[0178] In Fig. Figure 17 shows the "retracted" state of the piston rod 26. In this state, the reference 80d is within the detection range of both sensors 81 and 82. Sensors 81 and 82 generate a signal in this state indicating the "retracted" state of the piston rod 26.

[0179] When the piston rod 26 moves into the "extended" position, the reference 80d, which is rigidly connected to the piston rod 26, moves out of the detection ranges of both sensors 81 and 82, at which point these sensors no longer provide a signal. The "extended" position can then be clearly detected by means of another signal, which is supplied, for example, by the actuation control of the brake cylinder 3 or by another sensor, for example, on the brake linkage 1a.

[0180] The two sensors 81, 82 can be inductive sensors, for example, but any other method capable of determining the actual position of the piston rod 26 can also be used. A single sensor 81, 82 can also be used.

[0181] One advantage is that the sixth detection unit 8 with the sensors 81, 82 is fixed in place on the bogie or underframe of the associated rail vehicle, so that connecting lines 82a (only one connecting line is shown) of the sensors 81, 82 do not move during train operation and therefore the connecting line(s) 82a can be very robust.

[0182] Evaluations of the signals supplied by the acquisition units 7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9 are described below by way of example.

[0183] The signals can be monitored in three modes: - Only during the brake test at the start of operation One advantage is that the evaluation logic can be simpler and yet still speed up the brake testing procedure (replacing visual observation by humans) and make it more reliable. One disadvantage is that a continuous signal is not provided. - Measurement during braking Monitoring of the brake signal begins when the rail vehicle brake 1 is applied and stops after the rail vehicle brake 1 is released. One advantage is that the braking process can be observed, which could increase the level of safety. A disadvantage is the more complex evaluation logic. - Continuous measurement This has the advantage that, depending on the measuring technology / acquisition units, not only braking but also other errors and diagnostic data can be detected. However, this requires the most complex logic.

[0184] In different cases, two logic circuits can be used for brake signal evaluation. For monitoring the movement of the linkage adjuster 4, reference is made to patent application DE 10 2021 112 130 A1 and patent specification AT 525000B1. These describe a brake caliper unit with a wear sensor device and a method for detecting wear of brake pads and brake discs in a brake caliper unit of a disc brake.

[0185] A signal evaluation method for monitoring the brake position is described in document EP 3 815 993 A1, which is referenced here. This document concerns brakes, brake pad wear, and wheel wear monitoring.

[0186] Reference is also made to document DE 10 2020 124 645 A1, which describes a brake caliper unit with a wear sensor device and a method for detecting wear of a brake caliper unit.

[0187] For distance measurement, reference is made to document DE 10 2020 107 835 A1, which describes a service brake cylinder, in particular a block brake, with brake condition detection, in particular for a rail vehicle, and a method for detecting a brake condition of a service brake cylinder, in particular a block brake.

[0188] In Fig. Figure 18 shows a schematic flowchart of a method according to the invention for monitoring a railway vehicle brake 1.

[0189] In a first process step, a rail vehicle brake 1 with a monitoring device 10 is provided with detection units 7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9. Sensors 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 77, 81, 82, 90 of the detection units 7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9 are connected to an electrical power supply.

[0190] In a second process step VS2, electrical signals are generated by the sensors 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 77, 81, 82, 90 of the detection units 7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9 depending on the states of the rail vehicle brake 1.

[0191] The signals obtained in this way are monitored in a third process step VS3 in three modes, whereby in a first mode monitoring is carried out only during a brake test at the beginning of operation, in a second mode monitoring is carried out during braking, and in a third mode continuous monitoring is carried out.

[0192] The monitored signals are compared with previously stored reference values ​​in evaluation unit 11. Depending on the comparison values ​​obtained, evaluation unit 11 outputs results in optical, acoustic, haptic, and / or electronic form. The term "electronic form" includes both analog and digital data of the results and other signals.

[0193] The above description describes wired data communication. Of course, it is also possible for this to be implemented completely or partially wirelessly, e.g., via radio, infrared, ultrasound, etc.

[0194] The invention is not limited by the embodiment given above, but can be modified within the scope of the claims. Reference symbol list 1 Rail vehicle brake 1a Brake linkage 1b Suspension 2 wheel 3 brake cylinders 4 linkage adjusters 5 brake pads 6 Handbrake 7, 7a, 7b, 7c; 7d; 8; 9 detection unit 10 Monitoring device 11 Evaluation unit 12 cases 12a, 12b, 12c Internal bore 12d, 12e Front side 12f gradation 12g base 13, 14 Exclusion 15 sockets 15a Internal bore 15b Protective element 16, 17, 18 Energy storage element 19 Swivel axis 20 swivel levers 20a, 20b Lever arm 20c, 20d advantage 21 mounting frames 22 cylinder bodies 23 Cylinder covers 24 cylinder bushing 24a Piston 24b Chamber of Labour 24c cylinder space 25 Piston seal 26 Piston rod 27 Piston return spring 27a Linkage return spring 28 connection 29 Guide plate 29a Pen 29b Ring 40 adjusting spindle 40a, 40b Spindle end 40c, 40d, 40e Position 41 Guide nut tube 41a, 41b Pipe end 42 tab 43 Cylinder housings 43a, 43b Housing end 43c impact surface 44 Protective tube 45, 45a Sealing ring 47 Adjusting rod 47a, 47b Rod section 47c collar 47d Front 47e Central axis 48 Actuator head 48a Fastening section 48b surface 48c lead 48d bore 48e Mounting dome 70 bracket 70a Fastening 70b Stop section 71, 72, 73, 74 Sensor 71a, 72a, 73a, 74a Connection line 74b bracket 74c Reference 75 Sensor 75a Actuator 76 Sleeve 77 Sensor 77a Front 77b Connection side 77c Cable protection pipe 80 bracket 80a, 80b clamping ring 80c holder 80d Reference 81, 82 Sensor 82a Connection cable 90 Sensor a, b measure AB, EB Opening AS Axialspiel BS actuator play H stroke HA distance K1, K2, K3, K4 clutch VM feed nut VS1, VS2, VS3 Procedure step QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 28 35 305 A1

[0072] EP 36 568 A1

[0072] DE 10 2021 112 130 A1

[0184] AT 525000B1

[0184] EP 3 815 993 A1

[0185] DE 10 2020 124 645 A1

[0186] DE 10 2020 107 835 A1

[0187]

Claims

Railway vehicle brake (1), in particular for freight wagons, comprising a brake linkage (1a) with brake blocks (5), a brake cylinder (3), a linkage adjuster (4) and a monitoring device (10), characterized in that the monitoring device (10) has detection units (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9) with respective sensors (71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 77, 81, 82, 90), the supply of which with electrical energy is formed by access to an electrical power supply network of an associated railway vehicle. Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that a first detection unit (7) is assigned to the linkage adjuster (4) and has at least one sensor (71, 72) which detects an actuating stroke (H) between a cylinder housing (43) of the linkage adjuster (43) and a position of an actuating rod (47) of the linkage adjuster (4). Rail vehicle brake (1) according to claim 2 , characterized in that the actuating stroke (H) is a distance between a first housing end (43a) of the cylinder housing (43) of the linkage adjuster (4) and an actuating head (48, 48a) which is rigidly connected to the actuating rod (47) of the linkage adjuster (4). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the first detection unit (7) has a sensor (71) arranged radially with its active side in relation to the actuating rod (47) and / or a further sensor (72) which is arranged axially with its active side in relation to the actuating rod (47). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the at least one sensor (71, 72) or the two sensors (71, 72) are attached directly or indirectly to the stationary actuating rod (47). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a second detection unit (7a) with at least one sensor (73) is assigned to the linkage adjuster (4), wherein the at least one sensor (73) is arranged on a stationary protective tube (44) of an adjusting spindle (40) of the linkage adjuster (4) and detects a position of the movable adjusting spindle (40). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the adjusting spindle (40) is provided with at least one marking detectable by the at least one sensor (73), the position of which corresponds to a wear condition of the brake blocks (5). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a third detection unit (7b) with at least one sensor (74) is associated with the linkage adjuster (4), wherein the at least one sensor (74) is attached to a movable adjusting spindle (40) of the linkage adjuster (4) and detects a distance to a stationary reference (74c) which is attached directly or indirectly to a stationary protective tube (44), wherein this distance is proportional to an actual thickness of the brake lining (5). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a fourth detection unit (7c) with at least one sensor (75) is assigned to the linkage adjuster (4), wherein the at least one sensor (75) is arranged in a housing (12) between a first rod section (47a) of the actuating rod (47) and a second rod section (47b) of the actuating rod (47) of the linkage adjuster (4), wherein the housing (15) is arranged in series between the rod sections (47a, 47b) of the actuating rod (47). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the first rod section (47a) is fixedly connected at its end to an adjusting head (48) and at its other end to the housing (15), wherein the second rod section (47b) is mounted in alignment with the first rod section (47a) in the housing (15) so as to be displaceable longitudinally, either directly or indirectly. Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the housing (12) with the second actuating rod section (47b) of the actuating rod (47) forms a telescopic mechanism with a small stroke which is in a size range of 1 mm, wherein this stroke actuates the sensor (75) by means of a pivot lever (20). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that an end face (47d) of the second rod section (47b), which points to the first rod section (47a), is in contact with the pivotable pivot lever (20), which contacts an actuator (75a) of the at least one sensor (75). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a fifth detection unit (7d) with at least one sensor (77) is assigned to the linkage adjuster (4), wherein the sensor (77) is received in a bore (48d) of the actuating head (48) and interacts with a section of a cylinder housing (43) and thus detects a basic position and a braking position. Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the sensor (77) is arranged in a sleeve (76). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the bore (48d) of the actuating head (48) is arranged at an angle to the actuating rod (47). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sixth detection unit (8) is assigned to the brake cylinder (3) and has at least one sensor (81, 82) which detects a position of a piston rod (26) of the brake cylinder (3) and is fixedly attached to the brake cylinder (3). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that the sixth detection unit (8) has a sensor (81) arranged radially with its active side in relation to the piston rod (26) of the brake cylinder (3) and a further sensor (82) which is arranged axially with its active side in relation to the piston rod (26) of the brake cylinder (3), wherein the sensors (81, 82) cooperate with a reference (80d) which is attached to the movable piston rod (26) of the brake cylinder (3). Railway vehicle brake (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one further detection unit (9) with at least one sensor (90) is assigned to at least one suspension (1b) of the brake linkage (1a), wherein the supports of the suspensions (1b) are fixed points to which associated components of the brake linkage (1a) are pivotably articulated, wherein pivoting movements of these components in relation to the braking process and to the actual wear state of the brake blocks (5) are detected by the at least one sensor (90). Rail vehicle brake (1) according to claim 18, characterized in that the at least one sensor (90) is designed as an angle sensor. Railway vehicle brake (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical power supply network of the railway vehicle has Digital Automatic Couplings DAC. Rail vehicle, in particular freight wagon, with a rail vehicle brake (1) according to one of the preceding claims. Method for monitoring a railway vehicle brake 1 of a railway vehicle according to claim 21, in particular a freight wagon, according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized by the method steps: (VS1) providing a railway vehicle brake (1) with a monitoring device (10) with detection units (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9) and connecting sensors (71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 77, 81, 82) of the detection units (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9) to an electrical power supply network of the railway vehicle with Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC); (VS2) generating respective electrical signals from the sensors (71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 77, 81, 82) of the detection units (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 8, 9) depending on the state of the railway vehicle brake (1);and (VS3) monitoring the signals thus obtained and comparing the received signals in an evaluation unit (11) with previously stored reference values ​​and outputting result values ​​of the comparison as output in optical, acoustic, haptic and / or electronic form.; The method according to claim 22, characterized in that in the third method step VS3 monitoring the received signals are monitored in three modes, wherein in a first mode monitoring is carried out only during a brake test at the beginning of operation, in a second mode monitoring is carried out during braking, and in a third mode continuous monitoring is carried out.

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