Lifting device for bridging different floor levels in a passageway of a rail vehicle

Abstract

Lifting device (1) for transporting persons between different floor levels in a vehicle comprising: • a lifting platform (2) which is vertically movable in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1), • at least one drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform (2), comprising at least one motor (5), where • the lifting device (1) has at least one guide for the lifting platform (2) which is designed to guide the vertical movement of the lifting platform (2) and is arranged laterally to the lifting platform (2) in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1), • a space below the lifting platform (2) in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1) is free from the at least one motor (5) of the at least one drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform (2), wherein the platform lift (2) has a first end face (3) and a second end face (4) opposite the first end face for access and / or exit, wherein the lifting device (1) is located in the area of ​​the first end face (3) of the platform lift (2) has a first, height-adjustable first staircase (10, 100) coupled to the vertical movement of the platform lift (2) and having at least one step (13), and wherein the platform lift device (1) has a second, height-adjustable second staircase (44, 100) coupled to the vertical movement of the platform lift (2) and having at least one step (13) in the area of ​​the second end face (4) of the platform lift (2), characterized in that at least the first staircase (10, 100) is designed as a folding staircase (10) with at least one step (13) and at least one beam (17) rotatably arranged on the platform lift (2) and supporting the at least one step (13), wherein the at least one step (13) is pivotably arranged on the at least one beam (17) and coupled to the platform lift (2) by means of at least one driver (12), so that its tread surface lies in a plane with the platform lift (2) in a folded position of the first folding staircase (10) and in an unfolded position of the first folding staircase (10) runs parallel to the platform lift (2) offset in height.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a lifting device for the vertical transport of persons for a vehicle, as well as a large-capacity vehicle for transporting persons with different floor levels and at least one lifting device for the vertical transport of persons between the different floor levels of the large-capacity vehicle, and a method for operating the lifting device, wherein the lifting device has a lifting platform which, in the intended orientation of the lifting device, is vertically movable by means of at least one drive, comprising at least one motor. Technical background

[0002] Types of lifting devices for compensating for or bridging different floor levels in rail vehicles are known, for example, from EP 2 641 805 A1 and WO 2018 / 137 910 A1. WO 2018 / 137 910 A1 teaches a rail vehicle with a first interior section having a first floor at a first floor level and a second interior section adjoining the first interior section having a second floor at a second floor level that is above the first floor level, as well as a lifting device with a lifting platform for overcoming the difference between the first and second floor levels, which is arranged between the first and second floors and is vertically movable between a lower position where its top surface is flush with the top surface of the first floor and an upper position where its top surface is flush with the top surface of the second floor.In addition, two staircases extending laterally from the platform lift are provided, coupled to a vertical movement of the platform lift in a vertical direction, one of which connects to the first floor and the other to the second floor.

[0003] DE 20 2015 001 490 U1 discloses a lifting device comprising a lifting column, a drive system, and a lifting platform, wherein the lifting platform is vertically movable on the lifting column by the drive system. DE 27 59 017 C2 also relates to a lifting device on a vehicle with a gearbox arranged laterally to the lifting platform.

[0004] The publication DE 10 2018 123 200 A1 teaches a generic lifting device for a rail vehicle according to the preamble of independent claim 1.

[0005] The invention is based on the objective of providing an improved lifting device for a large vehicle.

[0006] The problem is solved by the subject matter of independent patent claim 1. Further developments and embodiments of the invention are found in the features of the dependent patent claims.

[0007] Due to the lateral guidance and the drive for the lifting movement arranged above the platform, the lifting device according to the invention requires very little installation space below the platform. Furthermore, the lifting device has low energy consumption when idle and enables safe entry and exit, even for people with reduced mobility in wheelchairs. Embodiments of the invention

[0008] A lifting device according to the invention for a passenger vehicle serves for transporting persons between different floor levels in the vehicle and comprises at least • a platform lift that is vertically movable in the intended orientation of the lifting device, • at least one drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform, comprising at least one motor, where • the lifting device has at least one guide for the lifting platform, which is designed to guide the vertical movement of the lifting platform and is arranged laterally to the lifting platform in the intended orientation of the lifting device, • a space below the platform lift in the intended orientation of the platform lift device is free of the at least one motor of the at least one drive for the vertical movement of the platform lift.

[0009] Furthermore, two staircases extending laterally from the platform lift are provided, coupled to the vertical movement of the platform lift in a vertical direction. One staircase connects to the first floor and the other to the second floor. For this purpose, the platform lift has a first end face and a second end face opposite the first for access and / or egress. The platform lift mechanism, in the area of ​​the first end face, includes a first staircase with at least one step, coupled to the vertical movement of the platform lift, and a second staircase with at least one step, coupled to the vertical movement of the platform lift.Arranged within the spacious vehicle, the first end face of the platform lift points towards the first floor of the vehicle's interior. The first staircase is located between this first end face and the first floor. The second end face of the platform lift points towards the second floor of the vehicle's interior. The second staircase is located between this second end face and the second floor. As previously mentioned, the first floor is at a lower level than the second floor.

[0010] At least the first staircase is designed as a folding staircase with at least one step and at least one beam, rotatably mounted on the platform lift, which supports the at least one step. The at least one step is pivotably mounted on the at least one beam and coupled to the platform lift by means of at least one drive mechanism, such that its tread lies in the same plane as the platform lift when the folding staircase is in a folded position and runs parallel to the platform lift when the folding staircase is unfolded, offset vertically. The beam and drive mechanism are hinged to the platform lift, in particular offset from each other, so that their pivoting movements relative to the platform lift result in a folding movement of the folding staircase when the platform lifts vertically.

[0011] The platform lift is vertically movable by means of at least one drive and is guided laterally along at least one guide for vertical movement of the platform lift.

[0012] A spacious vehicle for passenger transport according to the invention, in particular a track-bound vehicle, especially a rail vehicle, and in particular a public passenger transport rail vehicle, has at least two different floor levels and comprises at least one lifting device according to the invention for transporting persons between the different floor levels in the spacious vehicle. In its intended orientation, the lifting platform of the lifting device is vertically movable at least between the different floor levels of the vehicle by means of a drive mechanism and is arranged on at least one guide of the lifting device arranged laterally to the lifting platform and is guided along the at least one laterally arranged guide.The space immediately below the platform lift is free of a motor for the drive to execute the vertical movement of the platform lift along at least one lateral guide.

[0013] The different floor levels arise from two adjacent floors, separated by the lifting mechanism and connected by it, which have different heights above a ground level. This ground level can be, for example, the earth's surface on which the vehicle is standing or moving. For rail vehicles, the rails can also serve as the ground level, while for ships, as large vessels, the waterline can be used.

[0014] The different floor levels are found primarily within the interior of the spacious vehicle. Accordingly, the spacious vehicle has an interior with a first floor at a first floor level and a second floor at a second floor level, the second floor being above the first floor – thus forming a so-called low-floor area with the first floor and a high-floor area with the second floor. The lifting device for overcoming the difference between the first and second floor levels is located between the first and second floors. The lifting platform is vertically movable by means of the drive mechanism, at least between the first and second floor levels, and is guided laterally along at least one guide through these levels.The platform lift could also be described as height-adjustable or as vertically guided and movable along at least one guide arranged laterally on the platform lift. Advantageously, the platform lift can be moved between a lowered or lower first position, in which its top surface is flush with the top surface of the first floor, and a raised or upper second position, in which its top surface is flush with the top surface of the second floor, by means of the drive mechanism along the at least one guide. This allows for stepless, level access to and from the platform lift from the respective adjacent floors.

[0015] The platform lift is advantageously sized to accommodate a person with limited mobility. Accordingly, the platform lift is preferably designed for the vertical transport of a person with limited mobility between different floor levels. Using the platform lift, the different floor levels can thus be easily traversed by anyone.

[0016] Various power transmission systems are suitable for driving the vertical movement of the lifting platform, such as mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic systems. All these drives have in common that they include at least one motor, sometimes also referred to as a power unit. Mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic transmissions are provided for transmitting the power generated by the motor. Typically, stationary lifting devices have the lifting platform transmission and the motor located below the platform, such as scissor lift tables or lifting platforms with a Nuremberg scissor mechanism. According to the invention, however, the lifting device is at least free of the at least one motor of the drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform located below the platform. Furthermore, the lifting device is also free of a transmission for the drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform located below the platform.

[0017] According to a further development of the invention, the at least one guide for the lifting platform is arranged exclusively on one side of the platform. As already explained above, the lifting device serves to bridge different floor levels in the interior of a large passenger vehicle, particularly a public rail vehicle. Accordingly, the lifting device can be arranged in a passageway of the interior of the large vehicle. The lifting platform can have a first end face and a second end face opposite the first, each facing the adjacent floors of the passageway of the large vehicle, and the platform can be accessed and exited via these two ends. The lifting platform is thus accessible via the first and second end faces.Accordingly, at least one lateral guide is arranged on a side of the lifting platform lateral to the described entry and / or exit direction, and according to the further development, only on a single lateral side of the lifting platform, i.e., on one side, for example, to the side of a passage formed by the lifting platform of the large-capacity vehicle, in particular in the area of ​​a side wall of the large-capacity vehicle that limits the interior of the large-capacity vehicle, for example in the area of ​​a sanitary cell of the large-capacity vehicle.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the at least one guide for the lifting platform comprises at least one guide rail and at least one carriage, wherein the at least one guide rail runs vertically in the intended orientation of the lifting device, wherein the at least one carriage is guided along the at least one guide rail, and wherein the at least one carriage is connected to the lifting platform. The connection of the at least one carriage to the lifting platform can be effected via a fork, also to be referred to as a lifting fork, which extends substantially horizontally in the intended orientation of the lifting device, in particular transversely to the passage of the large vehicle, and in particular perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and on which the lifting platform rests.The at least one guide rail can be designed as a profile rail, in which it at least partially encloses the at least one carriage, or in which the at least one carriage at least partially encloses the at least one guide rail. Such guide rails are known from the field of linear guides.

[0019] Threaded spindles are known from the field of linear drives; these can also serve as guide rails and are accordingly included as such. The at least one guide rail and the at least one slide are advantageously designed to be complementary to each other, so that translational movement of the at least one slide parallel to the longitudinal axis of the at least one guide rail is free, and rotational movement of the slide around the at least one guide rail is blocked. The at least one slide can be guided in, on, or around the at least one guide rail. In a simple manner, two parallel guide rails can be provided, with at least one slide guided along each of the at least two parallel guide rails, and the at least two slides being rigidly connected to the lifting platform, for example, via a lifting fork.This prevents the slides from rotating around the guide rails.

[0020] The at least one guide rail can be arranged in the large-capacity vehicle, aligned parallel to a vertical axis of the large-capacity vehicle, particularly on a side wall of the large-capacity vehicle that defines its interior. In its intended orientation, the at least one guide rail thus runs essentially vertically, so that the at least one guide for the lifting platform could also be described as running laterally and vertically.

[0021] According to a further embodiment, the at least one motor of the at least one drive of the lifting device is arranged above a plane of the lifting platform. The at least one motor can be arranged stationary relative to the lifting platform, for example, indirectly connected to it, so that it can also be raised and lowered together with the lifting platform. Alternatively, it can be stationary relative to the guide rails of the lifting device. In the latter case, according to the embodiment, it is always arranged above a plane in which the lifting platform lies or which is defined by the lifting platform.

[0022] The at least one motor can be designed as a linear motor of a linear drive and optionally be integrated into the at least one guide. The at least one motor can be designed as a pneumatic or hydraulic motor, for example as an air compressor or a hydraulic pump. According to a further embodiment, the at least one motor of the at least one drive is an electric motor. In a further embodiment, the at least one drive further comprises at least one threaded spindle with a threaded rod and at least one spindle nut, wherein the at least one spindle nut is threaded onto the threaded rod and connected to the lifting platform, and wherein the at least one threaded rod is vertically aligned in the intended orientation of the lifting device.The at least one threaded rod or the at least one spindle nut is then mechanically connected to the at least one electric motor, for example via a gearbox, and driven by the at least one electric motor. The threaded rod can therefore be fixed, in particular fixed around its axis within the large-scale vehicle, and the spindle nut can be set into a rotary motion around the fixed threaded rod by the electric motor, the spindle nut being rotatably mounted on the lifting platform relative to the platform, so that the rotary motion of the spindle nut around the fixed threaded rod moves the lifting platform vertically along the threaded rod. Preferably, however, the at least one threaded rod is driven.The at least one threaded rod is thus rotatable about its own axis, for example in a base plate of the lifting device, and mechanically connected to the at least one electric motor, for example via a gearbox, so that the at least one electric motor can set the at least one threaded rod into a rotary movement about its own axis, and the at least one spindle nut is firmly connected to the lifting platform, for example also firmly to the at least one slide.

[0023] According to a further embodiment, the lifting device comprises exactly one drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform, which includes exactly one electric motor, wherein the drive has exactly two, in particular parallel and vertically aligned, threaded spindles on one side of the lifting platform, which are mechanically connected to the exactly one electric motor, in particular via a gearbox, for example via a worm gear with two drive shafts, in such a way that they are driven in the same or synchronous manner, wherein at least one spindle nut is threaded onto each of the two threaded rods and is connected to the lifting platform, for example firmly to the carriage(s).

[0024] One advantage of a threaded spindle is that it is self-locking and thus holds the lifting platform in a raised and / or lowered position without requiring an energy supply or drive power.

[0025] An (emergency) function for manually raising or lowering the platform lift can be integrated into the lifting device. This could be a control panel for operating the drive to raise and lower the platform lift. Alternatively, a crank for manual operation could be provided, in the case of a threaded spindle.

[0026] The lifting device can be designed as a self-supporting structure and, in particular, can be anchored exclusively to a car body in the area of ​​the vehicle floor of the large-capacity vehicle. For this purpose, at least one guide rail, in particular two guide rails, can be arranged on a common base plate and connected to the large-capacity vehicle via this plate.

[0027] In particular, both the first and second staircases are designed as folding staircases. Folding staircases, also known as folding steps or stepladders, are also referred to as variable staircases and are generally known from stage technology in the event industry, although there they usually have a limited angle of inclination. According to the further development, the first staircase is advantageously designed such that its tread surface, in a lowered position of the platform lift and thus in its folded position, forms a flat surface with the platform lift and, in the raised position of the platform lift and thus in its unfolded position, has a step spacing to the platform lift within a specified standard.Conversely, the second staircase can be designed analogously such that its tread, when the platform is raised and thus folded, forms a flat surface with the platform, and when the platform is lowered and thus unfolded, has a step spacing within a specified standard. In a further development, at least the first staircase is attached to the platform and slides over the adjacent first floor of the interior of the spacious vehicle. Specifically, the first and second staircases are each attached to the platform and slide over the adjacent first and second floors, respectively. The first and, if applicable, the second staircase rest on the adjacent first and second floors of the interior of the spacious vehicle and can move freely relative to them.

[0028] The second staircase is also designed as a folding staircase with at least one step and at least one beam, rotatably mounted on the platform lift, which supports the at least one step. The at least one step is pivotably mounted on the beam and coupled to the platform lift by means of at least one drive mechanism, so that its tread lies in the same plane as the platform lift when the folding staircase is folded, and runs parallel to the platform lift when the folding staircase is unfolded, offset vertically. The beam and drive mechanism are hinged to the platform lift, in particular offset from each other, so that their pivoting movements relative to the platform lift result in a folding movement of the folding staircase when the platform lifts vertically.

[0029] The first and second staircases can be designed in the same way.

[0030] At least the first and, if applicable, the second staircase can also have two or more steps, wherein the steps are rotatably arranged on the beam supporting the steps, which is rotatably arranged on the platform lift, wherein the steps are coupled to each other by means of at least one driver and dimensioned in such a way that their treads lie in one plane in the folded position and, in the unfolded position, the treads of the steps run parallel to the platform lift, offset in height, thus forming steps.

[0031] In the spacious vehicle, the treads of the first staircase, when folded (i.e., with the lift platform lowered), lie flush next to each other and, in particular, are approximately gap-free to form a continuous tread surface. Similarly, the treads of the second staircase, when folded (i.e., with the lift platform raised), can lie flush next to each other and, in particular, are approximately gap-free to form a continuous tread surface. This can be achieved by hinged the steps approximately centrally to at least one stile. In a further embodiment, at least the first and, optionally, the second staircase has two parallel stiles, with the at least one step being arranged between the stiles, in particular pivotably on the stiles located on both sides of the at least one step.

[0032] In every position, at least one step of the first and / or second staircase is essentially horizontally aligned in the intended orientation of the platform lift device. The step of the first and / or second staircase adjacent to and resting on the respective floor may have a slight ramp-like shape.

[0033] As mentioned above, the first and second staircases can be designed in the same way. However, they are not necessarily identical, as described below.

[0034] In this further developed form, at least the first staircase can have a first covering for covering an area of ​​the lifting device above a tread surface of the at least one step and at least a further, second covering for covering an area of ​​the lifting device below the at least one step, wherein the first and the second covering each have a first covering part and a second covering part.The first cladding section of the first staircase is arranged in the area of ​​the first end face of the platform lift, beneath the platform lift. The second cladding section of the first staircase is arranged in the area of ​​a rear edge of the tread of at least one step on the stile or the carrier, wherein the first cladding section of the second cladding is arranged below a front edge of the at least one step, and the second cladding section of the second cladding is arranged in the area of ​​the front edge of the tread of at least one step on the stile or the carrier. The first cladding serves to horizontally clad an area below the platform lift when the first staircase is extended in the intended orientation of the platform lift.The second panel serves to cover an area below the at least one step of the first staircase in a horizontal direction when the first staircase is unfolded and in the intended orientation of the platform lift. The first panel section of the first panel is located in the area of ​​the first end face of the platform lift, below the platform lift, and is specifically fixed to the platform lift. The first panel section of the second panel is located in the area of ​​the front edge of the tread of the at least one first step, below the at least one first step, and is specifically fixed to the at least one first step. The second panel sections are each specifically fixed to the stile or the carrier and are dimensioned such that, in the folded position of the first staircase, they lie completely below the tread of the at least one first step.In the unfolded position of the first staircase, the second panel of the first panel is at least partially pivoted over the first step, and the second panel of the second panel is at least partially located above the first floor of the interior of the spacious vehicle. When the first staircase is unfolded and / or folded in, the respective first and second panels of the first and second panels are moved past each other, in particular tangentially. In the folded position of the first staircase, they are arranged side by side; in the unfolded position, they are adjacent to each other, possibly overlapping at least partially, and form a cover for the area below the lifting device that is opaque, at least from a horizontal direction.

[0035] Furthermore, sealing materials, such as brush seals, can be provided between the first and second cladding panels. These serve to seal the area beneath the lifting device against the ingress of dust and dirt. Additionally, the sealing materials, such as the brush seals, serve to minimize the gap between the cladding panels.

[0036] For staircases with two steps, a third paneling with first and second panels can also be provided. The first paneling of the third paneling is then attached to the front edge of the tread of the second step, specifically below the second step, and is fixed to it. Staircases with multiple steps can be designed analogously.

[0037] The second staircase can also have a first covering for a section of the lifting device above a tread of the at least one step and at least a further, second covering for a section of the lifting device below the at least one step, wherein the first and the second coverings each have a first covering part and a second covering part. The first covering part of the first covering of the second staircase is arranged below a front edge of the tread of the at least one step, in particular fixedly, on the at least one step, and the second covering part of the first covering is arranged in the area of ​​the front edge of the tread of the at least one step on the stringer or on the carrier.The second staircase can have a further tread platform designed to rest on the second floor of the interior of the spacious vehicle and to slide freely over this second floor. The first cladding part of the second tread platform is arranged below a front edge of the additional tread platform, in particular fixedly, attached to the additional tread platform. Alternatively, the first cladding part of the second tread platform is arranged below a front edge of the second floor, in particular fixedly, attached to the second floor of the interior of the spacious vehicle, and the second cladding part of the second cladding is arranged in the area of ​​the rear edge of the tread surface of the at least one step on the stringer or the carrier. Staircases with multiple steps can also be designed analogously.

[0038] In a further development, the platform lift device comprises a first and / or a second door device, wherein the first door device is arranged in the area of ​​the first end face of the platform lift, in particular fixedly on the platform lift, and / or wherein the second door device is arranged in the area of ​​the second end face of the platform lift, in particular fixedly on the platform lift. The first and / or second door device, in particular each comprising a safety door, in particular a swing door, in particular comprising two opposing door leaves, in particular hinged in the area of ​​the lateral sides of the platform lift, serve to block and release access to and / or from the platform lift. The first and / or second door device is in particular arranged on the platform lift and moves vertically with the platform lift.The first and / or second door is, of course, dimensioned to allow wheelchair access. To ensure that a person with reduced mobility in a wheelchair is safely on the platform during the lifting movement and to prevent rolling off the platform, the first and / or a second door is linked to the vertical movement of the platform and to each other in such a way that it remains closed during the raising and / or lowering of the platform. If the platform is not being used by a person with reduced mobility in a wheelchair to bridge different floor levels, the doors can be kept open to allow unimpeded passage for passengers who are not wheelchair users. When the platform is requested, the door opposite the access point to the platform can be closed first.Once the person has boarded, the door at the front of the access point closes. After the platform has finished lifting, the door opposite the access point to the platform lift opens first, and only after the person has exited is the opposite door opened, so that both doors are open again.

[0039] Accordingly, a method for operating a lifting device according to the invention, particularly in a large-capacity vehicle, comprises the following method steps: • Requesting the platform lift in a first starting position with the platform lift lowered and the first and second door devices open, • Closing the second door mechanism, • Confirming successful access to the platform lift or initiating the lifting movement of the platform lift, • Closing the first door device, • Raising the platform lift until the raised position of the platform lift is reached, • Opening the second door mechanism, • Detecting a free platform lift or confirming successful exit from the platform lift, • Opening the first door device, or • Requesting the platform lift in a second starting position with the platform lift raised and the first and second door devices open, • Closing the first door device, • Confirming successful access to the platform lift or initiating the lifting movement of the platform lift, • Closing the second door mechanism, • Lowering the platform lift until the lowered position of the platform lift is reached, • Opening the first door device, • Detecting a free platform lift or confirming successful exit from the platform lift, • Opening the second door mechanism.

[0040] For this purpose, operating devices for requesting the lifting platform or for confirming successful exit from the lifting platform can be provided in the area of ​​the end faces of the first and second floor sections, for example, arranged on the side walls of the spacious vehicle. Furthermore, an operating device for confirming successful entry or a control panel for controlling the drive for raising and lowering the lifting platform, and thus its lifting movement, can be provided in the area of ​​the lifting platform, in particular on the lifting mechanism itself.

[0041] As already explained above, the lifting device is arranged, in particular, in a passageway within the interior of the spacious vehicle. The passageway may be bounded on one side by an interior wall panel and on the other by a built-in module. The built-in module is, in particular, a sanitary module. The at least one lateral guide with the at least one drive of the lifting device is arranged, in particular, in the area of ​​the built-in module, especially the sanitary module. Furthermore, a handrail may be provided on the interior wall panel and / or the built-in module in the area of ​​the steps of the lifting device, the course of which is adapted to the positions of the first and second steps in their folded and / or unfolded positions. In the area of ​​the lifting platform, the lifting device may include a further handrail, in particular handrails on both sides.A handrail of the lifting device is in particular firmly mounted to the lifting platform, for example on doorposts of the door devices.

[0042] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons with male, female or other gender identities are included.

[0043] The invention allows for numerous embodiments. It is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures, each of which illustrates an exemplary embodiment. Identical elements in the figures are identified by the same reference numerals.

[0044] Exemplary embodiments of the drawing Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a part of an embodiment example of a lifting device according to the invention in a three-dimensional view, Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows the part of the lifting device made of Fig. 1 without a platform lift from a different perspective, Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows the part of the lifting device made of Fig. 2 from the perspective according to Fig. 1, Fig. Figure 4 schematically shows a first step in the use of the lifting device in operation, Fig. Figure 5 schematically shows a second step in the use of the lifting device in operation, Fig. Figure 6 schematically shows a third step in the use of the lifting device in operation, Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows a fourth step in the use of the lifting device in operation, Fig. Figure 8 schematically shows a fifth step in the use of the lifting device in operation, Fig. Figure 9 schematically shows a sixth step in the use of the lifting device in operation, Fig. Figure 10 schematically shows the step kinematics of a variant of the first staircase of the platform lift device in an unfolded position of the first staircase and in a raised position of the platform lift platform. Fig. Figure 11 schematically shows the step kinematics of the first staircase according to Fig. 10 in a folded position of the first staircase and in a lowered position of the platform lift, Fig. Figure 12 schematically shows an embodiment of the first staircase of the platform lift device in the unfolded position in a partial section in a three-dimensional view, Fig. Figure 13 schematically shows an embodiment of the second staircase of the platform lift device in a folded position in a partial section in a three-dimensional view, Fig. Figure 14 schematically shows the first staircase according to Fig. 12 in unfolded position in three-dimensional view, Fig. Figure 15 schematically shows the second staircase according to Fig. 13 in folded position in three-dimensional view. Detailed description of the exemplary implementations

[0045] In Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a platform lift device 1 according to the invention, shown in a three-dimensional view in its intended orientation. The sketched platform lift device 1 comprises a platform lift 2 with a first end face 3 and a second end face 4 opposite the first end face. The platform lift 2 is dimensioned to be suitable for wheelchair users with reduced mobility, with the first and second end faces 3 and 4 serving for accessing and exiting the platform lift 2. In the intended orientation of the platform lift device 1, the platform lift 2 is vertically movable, i.e., its height is adjustable.Arranged within a large vehicle, in particular a passenger rail vehicle, the lifting device 1 serves to transport persons with reduced mobility from a low-floor area of ​​the vehicle to a high-floor area of ​​the vehicle or vice versa.

[0046] The lifting device 1 includes at least one drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform 2. The drive includes at least one motor 5, in this case an electric motor. Furthermore, the vertical movement of the lifting platform 2 is guided by a guide. This guide comprises two guide rails 8 and 9, which are arranged on a lateral side of the lifting platform 2. The end faces 3 and 4 are thus freely accessible. The drive, including the motor 5, is also arranged laterally to the lifting platform 2, so that the space below the lifting platform 2 is free of the motor 5. In addition, the space below the lifting platform 2 is also free of any gearbox of the drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform 2. The motor 5 is fixedly attached to the guide rails 8 and 9 and is located above the lifting platform 2, even in its raised position.

[0047] The motor 5 synchronously drives two threaded rods 6 and 7 via a distribution gearbox 21. The threaded rods 6 and 7 are rotatably mounted in a base plate 31 of the lifting device 1 about their own longitudinal axes, are vertically aligned in the intended orientation of the lifting device, and are part of two threaded spindles. In addition to the respective threaded rod 6 or 7, each threaded spindle comprises a spindle nut 22 and 23. A first spindle nut 22 is threaded onto a first threaded rod 6, and a second spindle nut 23 is threaded onto the second threaded rod 7.Both spindle nuts 22 and 23 are connected to the lifting platform 2 such that force is transmitted in one direction parallel to the threaded rods 6 and 7 between the spindle nuts 22 and 23 and the lifting platform 2, so that the rotary movements of the threaded rods 6 and 7 are converted into a movement of the spindle nuts along the threaded rods 6 and 7 and thus into the vertical lifting movement of the lifting platform 2. The threaded spindles can be designed as ball screws.

[0048] Here, two slides 24 and 25 are supported on the spindle nuts 22 and 23. The slides 24 and 25 are guided along the guide rails 8 and 9. In the illustrated example shown, a first slide 24 engages a first guide rail 8, and a second slide 25 engages a second guide rail 9. Thus, the guide rails 8 and 9, with their respective associated slides 24 and 25, each form a linear guide.

[0049] The carriages 24 and 25 are connected to lifting forks 26 and 27, on which the lifting platform 2 rests. These are shown in the following Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 to be seen in detail.

[0050] To lock and unlock the access and exit points of the platform lift 2, a first door device 28 is arranged in the area of ​​the first end face 3 of the platform lift 2, and a second door device 29 is arranged in the area of ​​the second end face 4 of the platform lift 2. Both door devices 28 and 29 are designed as double-leaf swing doors with opposing door leaves. The first door device 28 comprises two doorposts 31 and 32, which are arranged on the lateral sides of the first end face 3 of the platform lift 2. The respective door leaves 35 and 36 of the first door device 28 are hinged to the doorposts 31 and 32. Similarly, the second door device 29 has two doorposts 33 and 34, which are arranged on the lateral sides of the second end face 4 of the platform lift 2 and each support the door leaves 37 and 38.Between the doorposts on each lateral side, here on doorposts 31 and 33 as well as on doorposts 34 and 36, handrails 39 and 40 are attached.

[0051] On an underside of the lifting platform 2, in the area of ​​the first end face 3, a first cladding part 18 of a first cladding is arranged, which will be described later, particularly in connection with the description of the Fig. 10 to 15, will be received.

[0052] Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 illustrates the lifting device 1 from Fig. 1 without the lifting platform and the components permanently attached to it, such as door mechanisms and handrails. The vertical lifting movement of the lifting platform 2 between a raised position, at the level of the vehicle's high floor area, and a lowered position, at the level of the vehicle's low floor area, is indicated by arrow 9. The lifting forks 26 and 27 serve to support the lifting platform and thus to transmit power from the drive to the lifting platform. As an alternative to the electric motor 5, a hydraulic or pneumatic drive could also be provided. Pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders could replace the threaded spindles. This would also ensure purely lateral guidance. There is no lifting mechanism below the lifting forks 26 and 27. The design with the spindle drive offers the advantage of self-locking.

[0053] Not shown is a control panel for raising and lowering the platform lift, nor a possible emergency function for manual raising and / or lowering. Actuating devices located on both sides of the platform lift within the rail vehicle for requesting the platform lift are also not shown in detail.

[0054] The Fig. Figures 4 to 9 show the process of raising the platform lift 2 from a lowered position, aligned with a low-floor first floor 42 of a passageway in the interior of a rail vehicle. Fig. Figure 4 shows the position of the door devices 28 and 29 after the platform lift device 1 has been requested by a person 41. In their default position, both door devices 28 and 29 are open for passage. If, however, the platform lift device 1 is requested on the low-floor side, the second door device 29 is initially closed towards the high-floor area. After the person 41 has entered ( Fig. 5) the first door device 28 is also closed ( Fig. 6) and the lifting movement is carried out until the lifting platform 2 has reached its raised position at the level of the high-floor floor 43 ( Fig. 7). Then the second door device 29 is opened ( Fig. 8) and person 41 can leave the platform lift 2 again ( Fig. 10). Finally, the first door device 28 is also opened again, so that both door devices 28 and 29 are open for passage - the lifting device is then in a second basic position.

[0055] Between the platform lift 2 and the floors 42 and 43 facing it, height-adjustable stairs 100 of the platform lift device 1 are arranged. These can be designed as folding stairs, as shown below in Fig. 10 to 15 are described in more detail.

[0056] Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 here schematically describe the function using the example of a first folding staircase 10 and Fig. Figures 12 to 15 show exemplary embodiments of a first and second folding staircase 10 and 44.

[0057] The first folding staircase 10 according to Fig. 11 to 12 and Fig. The first folding staircase 10 connects to the first end face of the platform lift 2 and comprises two parallel stiles 17, which are rotatably mounted on the platform lift 2. The steps 13 are rotatably mounted on the stiles 17, here via pins 45. Furthermore, the first folding staircase 10 comprises two carriers 12, which are rotatably mounted on the platform lift 2, offset from the stiles 17, via brackets 11. A second, ramp-shaped bracket 14 is provided on one part of the first folding staircase 10 opposite the first end face of the platform lift 2. This bracket, analogous to the first bracket, determines the distance between the stile 17 and the carrier 12, so that the stile 17 and the carrier 12 can move parallel to each other in a parallelogram with the vertical brackets 11 and 14.

[0058] The steps 13 are coupled to the platform lift 2 via the carriers 12, so that their treads run parallel to a tread 20 of the platform lift 2. In the raised position of the first folding staircase 10, they are offset from each other accordingly; in the lowered position, they are approximately in line.

[0059] To cover an area below the platform lift 2, 13 panels are provided between the steps, each comprising a first and second panel section. The first panel sections 15 are attached directly below the respective step 13. The second panel sections 16 are connected to the drive element 12 by a bolt.

[0060] When lowering the platform lift 2 from the raised position according to Fig. 10 into the lowered position according to Fig. 11 A ramp-shaped step 19 of the first folding staircase 10 slides over the first floor 42 of the spacious vehicle, and the first and second panel sections 15 and 16 of each panel slide past each other. A special feature is the first panel section 18 of the first panel of the first folding staircase 10, which is located below the front edge of the lifting platform 2.

[0061] The second folding staircase 44 according to Fig. 13 and Fig.15 has the same elements as stile 17, carrier 12, steps, and panels. It is located on the second end face of the platform lift 2. Its starting section 19 rests on a second floor 43 of the spacious vehicle and slides over it when the platform lift 2 is raised and lowered. Analogous to the first panel 18 of the first panel of the first folding staircase 10, the first panel 18 of the first panel of the second folding staircase can be located below the leading edge of the starting section 44 of the second folding staircase, facing the platform lift.

Claims

[1] Lifting device (1) for transporting persons between different floor levels in a vehicle comprising: • a lifting platform (2) which is vertically movable in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1), • at least one drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform (2), comprising at least one motor (5), where • the lifting device (1) has at least one guide for the lifting platform (2) which is designed to guide the vertical movement of the lifting platform (2) and is arranged laterally to the lifting platform (2) in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1), • a space below the lifting platform (2) in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1) is free from the at least one motor (5) of the at least one drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform (2), wherein the platform lift (2) has a first end face (3) and a second end face (4) opposite the first end face for access and / or exit, wherein the lifting device (1) is located in the area of ​​the first end face (3) of the platform lift (2) has a first, height-adjustable first staircase (10, 100) coupled to the vertical movement of the platform lift (2) and having at least one step (13), and wherein the platform lift device (1) has a second, height-adjustable second staircase (44, 100) coupled to the vertical movement of the platform lift (2) and having at least one step (13) in the area of ​​the second end face (4) of the platform lift (2), characterized by , that at least the first staircase (10, 100) is designed as a folding staircase (10) with at least one step (13) and at least one beam (17) rotatably arranged on the platform lift (2) and supporting the at least one step (13), wherein the at least one step (13) is pivotably arranged on the at least one beam (17) and coupled to the platform lift (2) by means of at least one driver (12), so that its tread surface lies in a plane with the platform lift (2) in a folded position of the first folding staircase (10) and in an unfolded position of the first folding staircase (10) runs parallel to the platform lift (2) offset in height. [2] Lifting device according to claim 1, characterized by , that a space below the lifting platform (2) in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1) is free of a gearbox of the drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform (2). [3] Lifting device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by , that at least one guide for the lifting platform (2) is arranged exclusively on one side of the lifting platform (2). [4] Lifting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the at least one guide for the lifting platform (2) comprises at least one guide rail (8, 9) and at least one carriage (24, 25), wherein the at least one guide rail (8, 9) is vertically aligned in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1), wherein the at least one carriage (24, 25) is guided along the at least one guide rail (8, 9) and wherein the at least one carriage (24, 25) is connected to the lifting platform (2). [5] Lifting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the at least one motor (5) of the at least one drive is arranged above the lifting platform (2). [6] Lifting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by , that the at least one motor (5) of the at least one drive is an electric motor, wherein the at least one drive comprises at least one threaded spindle with a threaded rod (6, 7) and at least one spindle nut (22, 23), wherein the threaded rod (6, 7) of the at least one threaded spindle is vertically aligned in the intended orientation of the lifting device (1) and is driven by the at least one electric motor of the at least one drive, wherein the at least one spindle nut (22, 23) is threaded onto the threaded rod (6, 7) and connected to the lifting platform (2). [7] Lifting device according to claims 3 and 6, characterized by, that the lifting device (1) comprises exactly one drive for the vertical movement of the lifting platform (2), which comprises exactly one electric motor, wherein the drive has exactly two threaded spindles on one side of the lifting platform (2) which are mechanically connected to the exactly one electric motor in such a way that they are driven synchronously, wherein at least one spindle nut (22, 23) is threaded onto the two threaded rods (6, 7) and connected to the lifting platform (2). [8] Lifting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by, that at least the first folding staircase (10) has a first covering for covering an area of ​​the lifting device (1) above a tread surface of the at least one step (13) and at least a further, second covering for covering an area of ​​the lifting device (1) below the at least one step (13), wherein the first and the second covering each have a first covering part (18, 15) and a second covering part (16), wherein the first covering part (18) of the first covering is arranged in the area of ​​the first end face (3) of the lifting platform (2) below the lifting platform (2) and the second covering part (16) of the first covering is arranged in the area of ​​a trailing edge of the tread surface of the at least one step (13) on the stile (17) or on the carrier (12),wherein the first covering part of the second covering (15) is arranged under a front edge of the at least one step (13) on the at least one step (13) and the second covering part (16) of the second covering is arranged in the area of ​​the front edge of the tread surface of the at least one step (13) on the stile (17) or on the driver (12). [9] Lifting device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by , that the platform lift (2) has a first and second end face (3, 4) for entry and / or exit, wherein the platform lift device (1) has a door device (28, 29) in the area of ​​the first and second end face (3, 4) of the platform lift (2) for locking and unlocking entry and / or exit. [10] Large-capacity vehicle for passenger transport with at least two different floor levels and at least one lifting device (1), according to one of the preceding claims, for transporting persons between the different floor levels in the large-capacity vehicle.

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