Test bench equipment

Abstract

Test stand device 1 for the steerable mounting of a wheel R of a vehicle to be tested or a wheel assembly RM comprising: a support element 2 for setting up the wheel R with at least one connecting element 30 in a region of an end section of the support element 2, at least two air bearing elements 40 for supporting the support element 2, wherein each air bearing element 40 supports at least one connecting element 30.

Description

[0001] The present patent application relates to a test bench device.

[0002] For testing motor vehicles, so-called roller dynamometers are often used. The advantage of these test devices is their relatively quick setup time. For certain tests, so-called powertrain test devices are also employed. The greatest advantage of these test devices is the direct coupling of the torque to the vehicle hub. This eliminates slippage between the tire and the roller, and the torque to be transmitted is not limited by the tire-roller contact. To reduce setup times and effort, so-called "through-drive wheels" are used. The vehicle can be moved, at least to a limited extent, with the tires. These special rims have a pivot point between the inner part, which is connected to the vehicle hub, and the outer part, which holds the tire. There are also versions where the pivot point can be locked in place during setup.Such a test device is shown in DE 3507906 A1.

[0003] In view of the considerable development effort required for autonomous driving, test equipment is now needed that also allows steering movements. Such a test equipment could, in principle, also be a roller test bench. However, if high braking or acceleration forces occur along with steering input, its applicability is limited due to the resulting lateral forces. Therefore, efforts are underway to also perform this task using powertrain test equipment. Such a test system is shown in DE 112011101867 A1. While the non-steerable rear axle is equipped with conventional technology, additional effort is required for testing the steerable front axle. In the prior art shown, the drive shaft of the test equipment for the front wheels is therefore divided into several cardan shafts, and an additional bearing point is inserted between each of the partial shafts.During steering movements, this bearing point is displaced longitudinally. However, due to the travel limitation, only small steering angles are possible.

[0004] Another possibility is shown in WO 2019 / 151934 A1. Here, the necessary bearing point is mounted in a carriage that also carries the drive motor. During a steering movement, the entire carriage pivots. The angle around the X-axis (camber angle) must be compensated for by an elastic coupling element, reference numeral 205. Here, too, the steering angles are limited, and the high inertias involved do not provide a realistic steering feel.

[0005] In the case of EP 3792611 A1, the previously described limitations could be considered resolved. Longitudinal movement in the X and Y directions is permitted by the sliding elements with reference numerals 72 and 82; that is, the mounting plate 5 can move in the X and Y directions. The travel of the mounting plate 5 is limited by stops 9. Angular movements are permitted by the ball joint 6. Thus, full freedom of movement of the vehicle axle is essentially guaranteed. However, this solution also has a technical disadvantage that leads to limitations in practical testing. The mounting plate 5 is pushed against the stop 9 as soon as the drive motor 2 applies a torque, which in turn hinders the steering movement. Furthermore, the motor torque must be limited, which restricts the practicality of the tests because the lever arm of the support plate 5 must be relatively short due to its design. It is noteworthy in this context that condition F GK >> My / r must be fulfilled to prevent / exclude the device from tilting around the Y-axis, where F GK the vehicle wheel weight force, M y the torque of the drive and r is half the dimension of plate 5 in the X direction.

[0006] It is desirable to overcome the disadvantages described above. This is achieved, as disclosed below, and claimed in the patent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the following is claimed: Test stand device for the steerable mounting of a wheel of a vehicle under test or a wheel motor (optionally with or without a wheel) comprising: a support element for mounting the wheel, wherein the support element is slidably mounted in an X and / or Y direction (directions perpendicular to each other in the horizontal plane, especially when the test stand device is unloaded and rests on a horizontal surface) and rotatably mounted about the Z axis, wherein the wheel and / or the wheel motor mounted on the support element is positioned on the support element in such a way that a rotational movement about the X axis is possible.

[0008] Optionally, a test stand device according to the above embodiment, wherein the movable bearing and the rotatable bearing are configured by means of ball and / or slide bearings, and particularly preferably the movable bearing is configured by means of positively locking ball and / or slide bearings in such a way that lifting off at least one part of the support element is blocked.

[0009] Optional test bench equipment as above, wherein the bearing in the X and / or Y direction is provided by means of ball-bearing and / or sliding longitudinal rails.

[0010] The following aspect is also optional and can be claimed in addition to the above aspects and modifications, or explicitly as a standalone, independent claim: Test stand device (alternatively: test stand assembly or pedestal) for receiving a wheel of a vehicle under test or a wheel assembly (such as a wheel motor, a wheel with motor, and / or a test wheel), which may preferably be mounted on a wheel or vehicle. The test stand device comprises a support element, which may also be referred to as a plate or mounting plate. The support element is designed to support or mount the at least one wheel and / or the at least one wheel assembly. Furthermore, the test stand device comprises a holding element designed to mount the support element so as to be rotatable about an axis, which is preferably perpendicular to a surface of the support element and particularly preferably vertically oriented.

[0011] This axis, which is perpendicular to the test bench setup and, in particular, vertically oriented in a rectangular coordinate system, can subsequently also be referred to as the Z-axis. Furthermore, the axis that is arranged transversely to the mounted wheel, i.e., one of the wheel's rotational axes, can be referred to as the Y-axis. The X-axis is then arranged perpendicular to both the Y-axis and the Z-axis. The directions in which the three axes point are, accordingly, the X-direction (facing forward of the (motor) vehicle), the Y-direction (facing laterally away from the vehicle), and the Z-direction (facing away from the test bench's mounting surface). Preferably, the XY plane is parallel to the horizontal plane, and the Z-axis preferably coincides with the vertical plane.

[0012] The support element comprises at least two offset, plate-shaped sections and a connecting section between the two plate-shaped sections. The retaining element is plate-shaped and features a through-hole, preferably with at least one plate-shaped section of the support element positioned above and below the retaining element, and the connecting section of the support element passing through the through-hole.

[0013] The aforementioned design of a testing device allows for longitudinal degrees of freedom in the X and Y directions, as well as rotation around the Z axis. Furthermore, all guides / bearings can be positively engaged, meaning they are positively connected to one another. Specifically, the combination of the support element and the bearing via the retaining element provides the positive connection and simultaneous freedom of movement mentioned above, because the support element, with two plates above and below, essentially surrounds the retaining element via the feedthrough and can move within the feedthrough. Advantageously, during operation, this cannot be removed, pulled out, or fall out. Tilting is also prevented despite the degrees of freedom of movement.

[0014] Furthermore, a surface of a plate-shaped section of the support element and a surface of the retaining element can be arranged opposite and parallel to each other, and the opposing surfaces can be planar. This allows surfaces of the support element or of its plate-shaped sections to be arranged both below and above the retaining element or its surfaces that lie parallel to the horizontal, and these surfaces can slide against each other and relative to each other to enable a relative displacement in the X and / or Y direction.

[0015] Furthermore, the support element or the holding element can be made in one piece and the other element can be made in multiple parts, so that the assembly of the two components / elements can be carried out quickly.

[0016] Furthermore, the support element can essentially have a double-T cross-section. The plate-shaped sections can be spaced apart and arranged parallel to each other; and can be longer than the connecting section arranged perpendicular to the plate-shaped sections. Preferably, the two plate-shaped sections are congruent with respect to their relative arrangement and size when viewed from above. However, this can also be implemented differently; for example, the dimensions of one plate-shaped element can be larger than those of the other. Preferably, the connecting section is arranged centrally (preferably centrically) along the longitudinal direction of the plate-shaped sections. Particularly preferably, the plate-shaped sections can be circular, oval, square with equal sides, or rectangular when viewed from above / from above.

[0017] The plate-shaped sections are preferably arranged horizontally in the test stand and the connecting section vertically, provided the test stand is mounted horizontally on a floor / foundation. If the test stand is not mounted horizontally, the arrangement of the sections, elements, and the like described above is to be understood as being aligned parallel to a cross-sectional plane of the test stand or parallel to the XY plane, and the arrangement of the sections, elements, and the like described above as vertically or perpendicularly is then aligned parallel to the Z-axis. This definition becomes even clearer if one considers the axis of rotation of the wheel / wheel motor as the Y-axis (see definitions above), so that "horizontal" here can preferably also mean parallel to the XY plane and "perpendicular" parallel to the Z-axis.

[0018] The wheel, wheel assembly and / or the wheel's restraint / restraint device is placed on an upper surface of the upper plate-shaped section.

[0019] The design of the support element allows for a secure connection (through positive locking) that still provides all necessary degrees of freedom of movement in a structurally and mechanically simple manner. Tilting can also be prevented by extending the components particularly far in the X-direction, according to the condition also expressed as a formula above.

[0020] Furthermore, ball bearings can be installed in the intermediate areas between the plate-shaped section(s) of the support element and the retaining element. At least one ball bearing is preferably provided between the upper plate-shaped section and the retaining element to minimize friction between the two components, particularly to a greater extent than is possible with sliding surface bearings. However, it is especially preferred that an additional ball bearing is also arranged between the lower plate-shaped section and the retaining element. In the configuration with ball bearings in both areas between the retaining element and the plate-shaped sections (if the support element has two plate-shaped sections), minimal friction can be achieved during movement along the X and / or Y direction, thus allowing steering movements of the test vehicle or its wheel(s) to be tested / reproduced under realistic conditions.

[0021] Furthermore, the bushing can have the same or, preferably, at least a very similar cross-sectional shape to that of the connecting section, i.e., without significant deviations. This prevents stress concentrations or similar issues if the connecting section, during translational movement in the X and / or Y direction, abuts the inner edges of the bushing, which act as a limit for this translational movement, and if translational movement is facilitated by a large clearance between the connecting section and the bushing. The similar cross-sectional shape also minimizes or prevents rotation around the Z-axis.

[0022] If movement in the X and / or Y direction is to be enabled without additional components, the dimensions of the feedthrough must be at least 1.5 times larger than the dimensions of the cross-section of the connecting section in the X and Y directions. Preferably, however, the difference should be greater than 1.5 times, and particularly preferably, the difference in these dimensions should be chosen to reflect the desired degree of travel / range of movement in the X and / or Y direction. It is important to note that the positive fit must not be compromised; that is, the feedthrough must not be larger than the dimensions of the plate-shaped sections, or at least not the lower plate-shaped section.

[0023] If, however, the test bench setup is intended to enable the X and / or Y translation of the support element by means of additional parts / components, and only rotation around the Z-axis is to be permitted by rotating the support element relative to the retaining element in the bushing, then a relatively tight fit, such as a clearance fit between the bushing and the connecting section, is sufficient. A sliding bushing or a ball bearing can also be provided here for low-friction rotation around the Z-axis.

[0024] Furthermore, a restraint device can be arranged or mounted on the support element or on the surface of the upper plate-shaped section. A restraint device can, for example, comprise two wedge-shaped elements mounted on the upper plate-shaped section, e.g., by screws, bolts, or the like, and the wheel is positioned between these. A strap is then looped around the wheel between the two wedge-shaped elements and tensioned, thus securing the wheel.

[0025] Furthermore, the restraint device can advantageously be mounted on a swivel device, or the restraint device can be part of the swivel device, or vice versa. The swivel device can be attached to the support element. Preferably, the swivel device allows the wheel to tilt around the X-axis, so that test situations can be implemented even more realistically.

[0026] Furthermore, a base can support the retaining element with the mounted support element. The base can be trough-shaped, i.e., it can have a plate-shaped base with side walls projecting in the Z-direction at its edges. Within the area formed by the side walls, the lower plate-shaped section of the support element can be arranged, with the retaining element being placed / arranged / mounted / fastened onto the side walls like a lid. This allows for the provision of an easily handled test bench device that can be assembled in the test rig and also overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art described above. The base can preferably be connected to a foundation / floor or the installation surface, e.g., positively and / or force-fit, or even materially, to provide secure support and prevent tipping in any direction.

[0027] Furthermore, an aspect of the test bench setup can also include a base fixture that supports the holding element with the mounted support element, as described above, for example, and preferably, wherein the base fixture has longitudinal guides in the X and Y directions, or an additional element, optionally also an additional holding element for supporting the support element, is provided. This is particularly preferred if the connection between the connecting element of the support element and the opening of the (additional) holding element is designed such that only Z-axis rotation is possible there.

[0028] The longitudinal guides can be designed as positive-locking, encompassing rails, thus preventing lifting even under Z-direction forces. Furthermore, the longitudinal guides allow for adaptation to different vehicle track widths.

[0029] Furthermore, the test bench setup can also include a motor that can rotate the support element around the Z-axis and / or apply a counterforce to the Z-axis rotation of the wheel. For example, this can be achieved by the support element or another suitable component having a toothed section, e.g., on an edge of a plate-shaped section, and by the test bench setup further comprising a motor and a drive gear engaged with the toothed section. In addition, a rotary encoder can preferably also be provided, which can, for example, detect the angle of rotation.

[0030] Furthermore, the wheel or wheel motor can preferably have a convex shape, i.e., the contact surface of the wheel or wheel motor can be convexly curved, so that tilting about the X-axis can also be achieved. This can also replace the aforementioned preferred swiveling device if a structurally simpler design is desired.

[0031] In a further aspect of solving the problem formulated above, the test bench setup can also include the following components: A support element for mounting a wheel, with at least one connecting element located in a region of an end section of the support element. Here, "end section" preferably refers to a section in a region located close to a side / end edge of the support element. "Close" can be defined according to technical requirements and may, for example, encompass the last 10%, 20%, or 30%, etc., of the length in one direction of the support element. More preferably, the position of the connecting elements is defined by the distance between, for example, two connecting elements; specifically, such that the distance is chosen to suppress tilting around the Y-axis.

[0032] Furthermore, the test stand device can have at least two air bearing elements for supporting the support element, with each air bearing element supporting at least one connecting element.

[0033] Such a device also allows the full necessary freedom of movement and prevents tilting by spacing the air bearing elements apart from each other.

[0034] Furthermore, the connecting elements can have a curved section, e.g., partially, half-, fully, or spherically shaped, and the air bearing elements can have a correspondingly adapted receiving section to accommodate them. This allows the spherical sections to move freely within the receiving sections. Translation is enabled by the air bearings sliding over the mounting surface (ground, foundation). Additionally, the support element can have longer dimensions in the X-direction than in the Y-direction.

[0035] The aspects of the test bench setup described above can be used not only for setting up a (test) wheel (possibly with a wheel motor mounted on it), but also for setting up wheel motors without a wheel. Character description

[0036] The following section provides a more detailed explanation of the subject matter presented here, using preferred examples and referring to the accompanying figures. Identical elements in the figures are labeled with the same reference symbols. Therefore, repetitive descriptions are omitted where necessary. Brief description Fig. Figures 1a - 1f show different views of a test bench setup with the wheel erected. Fig. Figures 2a - 2f show different views of a variant of a test bench setup with the wheel mounted. Fig. Figures 3a - 3f show different views of a variant of a test bench setup with the wheel erected. Fig. Figures 4a - 4f show different views of a variant of a test bench setup with the wheel erected. Fig. Figures 5a - 5f show different views of a variant of a test bench setup with a wheel motor mounted on top. Fig. Figures 6a - 6e show, in perspective, the test bench facilities according to the aforementioned. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. 5, wherein the erected wheel or wheel motor is aligned parallel along the X-axis. Fig. Figures 7a - 7e show, in perspective, the test bench facilities according to the aforementioned. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. 5, wherein the erected wheel or wheel motor is aligned with a steering angle relative to the X-axis and furthermore a tilting / swiveling about the X-axis is shown. Detailed description of the characters

[0037] The basic idea of ​​the present revelation will now be explained using various examples, before the figures are described in more detail.

[0038] A wheel motor or wheel drive, as shown, for example, in DE 10 2022 207888, is mounted on a vehicle, and the wheel is placed on a turntable / support plate. However, a standard vehicle wheel or a so-called test wheel can also be used. These turntables are known in the field of wheel alignment. They allow longitudinal / translational movement in the X and Y directions, as well as free rotation about the Z-axis of up to 360°. A restraint that prevents the vehicle wheel from rolling prevents the conversion of the wheel torque into a tractive force. However, the limited diameter of the plate or turntable restricts its applications. This is solved, as disclosed here, by the fact that the floating plate (support element according to the claims) is guided in a form-fitting manner. In addition, the base element can preferably be designed to be long in the X direction such that F GK >> M / r is fulfilled.

[0039] The figures illustrate various aspects of the objects claimed here. These are described in detail below. All these aspects have at least in common that they technically overcome the disadvantages of the known testing devices outlined above. Fig. Figure 1b shows an example of a rectangular coordinate system, which is also relevant for the other figures.

[0040] The Fig. Figures 1a to 1f show a first example of a test bench setup 1, wherein the Fig. Figure 1a shows a cross-section along the X-axis / direction, from which the basic function of the object is already apparent. The cross-section shows a basic view 5, which is exemplary in its plate-like cross-section, and side walls 5a enclose a lowered inner area in which a lower plate-shaped section 2b of a support element 2 is arranged. As can be seen in the Fig. As shown in Figure 1a, the plate-shaped section 2b is arranged relative to the base 5 such that it does not project beyond the height of the side walls 5a in the Z-direction. Alternatively, the lower plate-shaped section 2b can also be flatter, i.e., with a lower height, so that its height is less than that of the side walls 5a. Furthermore, if the retaining element 3 described below has a concave shape with side walls (not shown), the height of the lower plate-shaped section 2b can also be greater than that of the side walls 5a of the base 5.

[0041] A retaining element 3 is attached to or mounted on the side walls 5a, flush with the side walls 5a in the X and Y directions. However, this can also be configured differently, in particular by extending the retaining element 3 laterally beyond the side walls 5a. The retaining element 3 has a through-hole 3a, which is shown here positioned centrally, but this can also be modified. The retaining element 3 can be fastened to the base 5 using countersunk screws, a suitable press fit and / or positive locking, or even by being bonded together, provided that at least the lower plate section 2b does not need to be removable at all times.

[0042] The opening 3a, for example designed as a through-hole, offers the possibility of accommodating the connecting section 2c of the support element 2. Here in the Fig. 1a and in the section view along the Y-axis of the Fig. 1e It becomes clear that preferably the implementation 3c has significantly larger dimensions, e.g. double, triple or more or less than the width in the X or Y direction of the connecting section 2c, so that it has sufficient clearance for lateral movements along the X and / or Y axis.

[0043] Above the upper surface 3aa of the retaining element 3, which is preferably plate-shaped, the support element 2 then has a further, upper plate-shaped section 2a, which is preferably also larger with respect to thickness / dimensions in the Z-direction and particularly preferably also with respect to dimensions in the X- and / or Y-direction than the lower plate-shaped section 2b. The wheel or the wheel motor stands alone on the upper surface 2aa of the upper plate-shaped section 2a (see figure). Fig. 5) on, as also from Fig. 1a as well as the Fig. 1b to 1f will be evident.

[0044] Preferably, bearings 4, preferably ball or plain bearings 4, are arranged between the two plate-shaped sections 2a and 2b and the retaining element 3, which further reduce friction between the retaining element 3 and the plate-shaped sections 2a, 2b, e.g. as in the Fig. 1a and Fig. 1e visible.

[0045] Furthermore, the following in particular show Fig. 1a and 1b to 1d additionally a preferred component, namely a swivel device 20. The partial section in Fig. 1d cuts through one of the wedge-shaped elements 21 ( Fig. 1a-1c), which secure the wheel R against translational movement by rolling. The cut in Fig. Figure 1d shows that the wedge-shaped elements 21 have a concave recess 21a which, in the assembled state, is oriented towards the ground or the foundation and partially encompasses a rail 22 with a tenon-shaped section 22a, or the concave recess 21a partially encompasses the tenon-shaped section 22a. The rail 22 is arranged continuously under the wheel R, see also Fig. 1c, and may preferably have lateral wing elements 22b which can be arranged in a fitting manner with the upper plate-shaped section 2a, Fig. 1a, so that they grip its outer edge and thus provide secure support and stability for the swivel device 20.

[0046] The connection between the concave receptacle 21a and the pin-shaped section 22a allows the wheel R to be fixed to it and pivot about the longitudinal axis of the aforementioned parts. If the wheel R is aligned in the X-direction, i.e., without steering input, then pivoting about the X-axis is thus possible.

[0047] Furthermore, the Fig. 1b and the Fig. Figure 1f shows in section along the XY plane at the level of the wheel axle that a wheel motor RM is attached to the wheel. This can be implemented in a known manner using an (axle) shaft AW.

[0048] Furthermore, a restraint device 10 for the wheel R comprises a band-shaped element 11 which is attached to the wedge-shaped elements 21 in a suitable manner and by known means and is looped around the wheel R or its tire in order to fix the wheel R. Fig. Figure 1b illustrates this particularly clearly. The ribbon-shaped element 11 can preferably be made of synthetic fibers or metal.

[0049] The Fig. Figures 2a to 2f essentially show a similar test bench setup 1' and subsequently only the differences to the previously described ones are discussed. Fig. 1a-1f or the example shown therein.

[0050] Thus, the structure of the base 5', the holding element 3' and the support element 2' differs from the Fig. 1a-f are designed and these components are essentially still used. The basic mounting element 5' is essentially a plate-shaped element that has two longitudinal rails 5'a aligned in a translational direction, e.g., along the Y-axis. The holding element 3' is also a plate-shaped element, which has channel-shaped elements 3'b on one side and rail-shaped elements 3'a on the other side / surface, arranged in the other horizontal direction, e.g., along the X-axis. These channel-shaped elements are preferably designed to be positively locked against relative movement or lifting in the Z-direction. Finally, the support element 2' is again, as in Fig. As described in Figure 1, a component preferably (essentially) has a double-T shape. The connecting section of the support element 2' is mounted on an additional retaining element 3x, preferably plate-shaped, with a through-hole 3c, which is provided on its underside with channel-shaped elements 3x'b. The channel-shaped and rail-shaped elements are each preferably provided in pairs and spaced parallel to each other; for example, at an outer end or near a surface. During assembly, the channel-shaped elements of the retaining element 3 engage with the rail-shaped elements 5'a of the base 5', and likewise the channel-shaped elements 3x'b engage with the rail-shaped elements 3'a of the retaining element. This, or the sliding bearing, allows translational movements in all directions X and Y. This corresponds to a cross-slide system and permits, among other things, particularly long travel distances.

[0051] In other words, a linear guide in each of the X and Y directions is used, which, when connected in series, form a cross table. This allows for compensation both in and across the direction of travel. The guides are preferably designed with positive locking so that forces in the Z direction, i.e., upwards, can also be absorbed.

[0052] To enable steering movements (track angle), a swivel bearing can preferably be installed that allows rotation around the Z-axis. This design is used, for example, in the following [references / documents]. Fig. 3a to 3f shown. From the Fig. 2a-2f shows that the longitudinal movements are no longer carried out by the plate rotary bearing, but that separate bearing points are provided for this purpose.

[0053] With regard to the Fig. 3a to 3f also state that the further description shows the differences or deviations of the test bench setup 1" shown here from the figures described above. In particular, the difference to the Fig. 2a to 2f to mention that linear motors M are additionally mounted on the holding element 3' and the base mount 5', which can also actively influence their linear movement, e.g. by braking or driving.

[0054] Furthermore, it is shown that the support element 2" also has the double-T shape, as in Fig. 1 and an additional retaining element 3x" is present, which has a through-hole 3c". This allows for Z-rotation. Preferably, the through-hole 3c" is only slightly larger in cross-section than the connecting element 2c", e.g., in the form of a clearance fit.

[0055] Furthermore, a toothed section 7a can optionally be provided / incorporated on a side edge 7 of the support element 2", in particular its upper part 2a(2a"). This can engage with a drive gear AZ and a motor M, so that Z-rotation can be actively induced or resistance can be applied. This drive can then counteract reaction forces to the steering movement. This allows, for example, real-world conditions to be simulated for an ADAS system. Optionally, the motor is equipped with a rotary encoder (not shown), so that information about the angle around the Z-axis is also available and steering torques can be measured via the motor current.

[0056] The camber angles, and especially the camber angles resulting from the spread, can optionally be accommodated by the elasticity of the tire in another variant, so that a swivel device 20 would not be necessary in this variant; however, it can certainly be provided additionally if desired. A convex shape of the tire or its outer surface is particularly preferable when using a test stand 1, 1', 1" without a swivel device. Furthermore, the convex shape optionally allows the tire to be omitted altogether, and the drive to be mounted directly on the pedestal or the test stand 1, 1', 1".

[0057] Alternatively, it is further disclosed here as a solution to provide the bearing by means of air bearings (elements) 40. These are preferably disc-shaped or conical and have a plurality of nozzle openings on the underside, i.e., the base 42 (not shown), which are supplied with compressed air. The blowing of compressed air at the nozzles causes a fluid film to form between the base 42 and the ground or the mounting surface / foundation, which enables frictionless movement relative to the ground and the air bearing element 40.

[0058] This solution for a test bench setup 1''' is used in the Fig. Figures 4a to 4f illustrate a mounting plate / support element 21 on which the wheel drive RM or the wheel R is placed and fixed on the upper surface. The fixing is preferably carried out as already described above. Air bearing elements 40 are arranged on the underside of the elongated support element 21 of this design at both ends. The mounting plate 21 has a connecting element 30 with a spherical section 31 at each end of its underside, e.g., in the form of a hemisphere or the like. This hemisphere is inserted into a receiving section 41 of an air bearing element 40 with a contrasting, convex shape, so that support is provided in the Z-direction (see Figure 4a to 4f). Fig. 4a). Thus, a "ball-shell combination" is used as a bearing, which enables or allows pivoting of preferably up to 90° to the wheel direction (X-axis (camber angle)). The function is derived from the section in the Fig. 4a is particularly evident. All other movements are enabled by the air bearings 40. The distance between the two air shoes / air bearing elements 40 is preferably designed such that the tilting moment remains smaller than the torque of the wheel drive RM. The foundation or floor on which the air bearing elements 40 are mounted is particularly preferably designed to be especially flat and level, e.g., by a coating or smoothing treatment and material selection, in order to ensure the load-bearing capacity of the air shoes with low air consumption. The support surface 42 is preferably selected with regard to its surface area such that the shoes remain on the surface during all movements.

[0059] Additionally, tilting around the X-axis can be supported or enabled by using narrow wheels, as these absorb the X-axis swiveling (camber angle) via the elasticity of the tire. With wide tires / drive motors, the surface can preferably have a convex shape.

[0060] The Fig. Figures 5a to 5f further show that a wheel motor RM (wheel drive) is arranged in a cardan bearing 50. This test stand device 1, 1', 1" (in Fig. Figure 5 shows an embodiment 1' as an example. (This does not, however, restrict the choice of test bench setup.) It can then be designed as described, for example, in connection with the previous figures, and instead of a swivel and / or restraint device 10 / 20, the gimbal bearing 50 is mounted on the support element 2. This bearing, in the usual manner of a gimbal bearing, has two half-shell elements 51, 52 rotatably connected via shafts 53a,b, with the wheel motor RM being detachably mounted on a side wall 52a of the inner half-shell element 52 by means of an axle shaft AW. The functionality, as described above, is thus utilized in a further way that takes advantage of the inventive principle, and this is therefore also a preferred embodiment.

[0061] Finally, the Fig. 6a to 6e and 7a to 7e are straight wheels R, i.e., without steering input, aligned along the X-axis, as well as wheels R turned by steering input, which are mounted on the respective exemplary embodiments of the test rig disclosed herein. In comparison of the Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows the degrees of freedom of movement, and at the same time, the undesirable tilting described above can be prevented in all design variants. It is noteworthy that the Fig. 6d and Fig. 7d also shows a partial section of the floor B, which, when using air bearing elements 40, may preferably be designed to be particularly flat and have low roughness, e.g. by a suitable coating, covering or by polishing, etc.

[0062] As discussed above, the principle shown here using various examples can eliminate the disadvantages of the state of the art and thus further improve the testing of vehicles. 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 3507906 A1

[0002] DE 112011101867 A1

[0003] WO 2019 / 151934 A1

[0004] EP 3792611 A1

[0005] DE 10 2022 207888

[0038]

Claims

[1] Test stand equipment (1) for steerable mounting of a wheel (R) of a vehicle under test or of a wheel motor (RM) comprising: - a support element (2) for setting up the wheel (R), wherein the support element (2) is mounted so as to be displaceable in an X and / or Y direction and rotatable about the Z axis, wherein the wheel (R) and / or the wheel motor (RM) mounted on the support element (2) is positioned on the support element (2) in such a way that a rotational movement about the X-axis is possible. [2] Test stand device according to claim 1, wherein the movable bearing and the rotatable bearing are configured by means of ball and / or slide bearings and preferably the movable bearing is configured by means of positively locking ball and / or slide bearings such that lifting of at least one part of the support element (2) is blocked. [3] Test stand device according to claim 1 and / or 2, wherein the bearing in the X and / or Y direction is provided by means of ball-bearing and / or sliding longitudinal rails. [4] Test bench equipment according to claim 1 further comprising: - a holding element (3) which is designed to mount the support element (2) so as to be rotatable about an axis, wherein the support element (2) has at least two offset plate-shaped sections (2a, 2b) and a connecting section (2c) between the two plate-shaped sections (2a, 2b), and wherein the retaining element (3) is plate-shaped and has a through-hole (3a) and at least one plate-shaped section (2a, 2b) of the support element (2) is arranged above or below the retaining element (3) and the connecting section (2c) of the support element (2) is guided through the through-hole (3a). [5] Test stand device according to claim 4, wherein a surface of a plate-shaped section (2a, 2b) of the support element (2) and a surface of the holding element (3) are arranged opposite and parallel to each other and the opposing surfaces are planar. [6] Test stand apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the support element (2) or the holding element (3) is made in one piece and the other is made in multiple parts. [7] Test stand device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the support element (2) has in cross-section essentially the shape of a double-T and the plate-shaped sections (2a, 2b) are spaced apart and arranged parallel to each other and are longer than the connecting section (2c) arranged perpendicular to the plate-shaped sections (2a, 2b), which is preferably arranged centrally in the longitudinal direction of the plate-shaped sections (2a, 2b), the plate-shaped sections (2a, 2b), particularly in an unloaded state, are arranged horizontally in the test rig (1) and the connecting section (2c) is arranged vertically, and a plate-shaped section arranged in a vertical direction above the other plate-shaped section has an upper surface on which the wheel (R) or a restraint device (10) is placed. [8] Test stand device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one ball and / or sliding bearing (4) is arranged between two opposing surfaces of the support element (2) and the holding element (3). [9] Test stand device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one ball and / or sliding bearing (4) is arranged between two opposing surfaces (2a, 2b) of the support element (2) and the holding element (3), wherein at least one ball and / or sliding bearing (4) is arranged between an upper surface (3aa) of the retaining element (3) and an upper plate-shaped section (2a) of the support element (2), and at least one ball and / or sliding bearing (4) is arranged between a lower surface (3bb) of the retaining element (3) and a lower plate-shaped section (2b) of the support element (2). [10] Test bench apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the feedthrough (3a) has a similar or preferably the same cross-sectional shape as the cross-sectional shape of the connecting section (2c). [11] Test bench equipment according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the passage (3a) has dimensions in each horizontal X and Y direction that are at least 1.5 times larger than the dimensions of the cross-section of the connecting section (2c) in the X and Y directions; or a ball and / or slide bearing for the Z-axis rotation is provided in the area around the connecting section (2c) and within the feedthrough (3c). [12] Test stand apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a restraint device is mounted or set up on the support element. [13] Test bench equipment according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a restraint device (10) is mounted or can be set up on the support element (2), and the restraint device (10) includes a swivel device (20). [14] Test stand setup according to claim 13, wherein the pivoting device (20) also allows longitudinal displacement in a direction at 90° to the pivoting direction of the pivoting device (20). [15] Test stand device according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a base mount (5) supports the holding element (3) with mounted support element (2). [16] Test stand apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a base mount (5') supports the holding element (3') by means of a longitudinal guide, the holding element (3') supports an additional holding element (3x) by means of a longitudinal guide and the additional holding element (3x) rotatably supports the support element (2). [17] Test stand equipment according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a base mount (5) can be connected to a foundation. [18] Test bench equipment according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the support element (2) has a toothing (7a) on an edge (7) of a plate-shaped section (2a, 2b) and the test stand device (1) further comprises a motor (M) and drive gear (AZ) in engagement with support element (2), in particular to bring about a counterforce to the Z-direction rotation or a rotation about the Z-direction; and / or preferably a rotary encoder is provided that detects the angle of rotation. [19] Test stand apparatus according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the erected wheel (R) or wheel motor (RM) has a convex shape of its running surface and / or has a predetermined elasticity, in particular to enable rotational movement about the X-axis. [20] Test stand equipment for the steerable mounting of a wheel (R) of a vehicle or wheel assembly (RM) under test comprising: - a support element (2') for erecting the wheel (R) with at least one connecting element (30) in a region of an end section of the support element (2'), - at least two air bearing elements (40) for supporting the support element (2'), wherein each air bearing element (40) supports at least one connecting element (30). [21] Test stand apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the connecting elements (30) have a spherical section (31) and the air bearing elements (40) have a correspondingly adapted receiving section (41) for receiving the spherical section (31). [22] Test stand setup according to claim 17 and / or 18, wherein the support element (2') has longer dimensions in the X direction than in the Y direction.

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