Door leaf with integrated folding step for a vehicle

Abstract

Door system (20) with a door leaf (24) for a vehicle (22), characterized by an integrated folding step (26), wherein the folding step (26) has a surface element (28) which, when unfolded, forms a tread surface (30) and, when folded in, forms an area of ​​the door leaf (24).

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system and a method for integrating a folding step into a door leaf for vehicles. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a door leaf comprising a folding step which, in the unfolded state, serves as a tread and, in the folded state, as part of the door leaf.

[0002] In the realm of vehicle doors, it is common for them to serve merely as simple barriers between the interior of a vehicle and the outside world. Familiar systems typically consist of fixed door leaves that can be opened and closed either manually or automatically. While these door leaves offer basic functions such as protection from the elements and access control, there are always situations where additional features would be desirable. Particularly in vehicles frequently used by people with reduced mobility, there is a need for additional aids that facilitate entry and exit.

[0003] According to established technology, such aids are often designed as separate units that must be retrofitted to the vehicle. These separate units include, for example, steps or ramps that are either manually unfolded or operated by a separate drive system. The disadvantage of these solutions is that they require additional space and can affect the vehicle's design. Furthermore, they often require complex installation and maintenance, which increases operating costs and can compromise reliability.

[0004] Despite significant advancements in vehicle access systems, there remains a need for integrated solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. One of the challenges is developing a solution that integrates seamlessly into the existing vehicle design without any visible additional components or compromise interior space. Furthermore, the solution should be robust and reliable to withstand the demands of daily use, while also being easy to operate to maximize user convenience.

[0005] Document DE20 113 258 U1 describes a folding staircase for caravans or motorhomes that can be detachably suspended below a vehicle door opening. The staircase consists of several horizontal steps connected by hinged linkages. The staircase can be adjusted between an extended operating position and a folded transport position. The linkages are formed by two pairs of parallel side rails, creating a hinged parallelogram arrangement that can be locked in predefined positions by a locking mechanism. The folding staircase requires additional space below the door opening, which may reduce the vehicle's ground clearance.

[0006] Document DE10 2008 057 537 A1 concerns a pivoting step hinged to a vehicle entrance. The entrance is formed by a stepped recess in the vehicle floor and has a fixed step. The pivoting step comprises a running board and a back panel section located along the longitudinal edge of the running board. The step can be pivoted from an operating position to a non-operating position, so that in the non-operating position, the underside of the step is flush with the vehicle floor. The pivoting step requires a stepped recess in the vehicle floor, which limits its possible applications.

[0007] German patent application DE 10 2013 014 906 A1 discloses a folding staircase design for a motor vehicle, in particular a bus. The design comprises a folding staircase and a mounting device with which the folding staircase can be mounted on the vehicle and pivoted. The folding staircase consists of at least two steps connected by a step offset. The folding staircase can be moved from a pivoted position, in which it functions as an entry staircase, to a pivoted position to facilitate entry. The mounting device for the folding staircase is complex and expensive.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved access system for vehicles which at least partially overcomes the disadvantages of known systems. In particular, the design should be relatively simple, yet robust.

[0009] According to the invention, the problem is solved by a door system with the features of claim 1.

[0010] The door system according to the invention therefore comprises a door leaf for a vehicle with an integrated folding step. The folding step in turn comprises a surface element which, in the unfolded state, forms a tread and, in the folded state, a section of the door leaf.

[0011] The door leaf is thus formed from a conventional flat door element and another flat element which, when unfolded, forms the step. When closed, the flat door element and the flat element of the step together form the door leaf. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the flat element, when folded in, forms a lower portion of the door leaf relative to the surface, for example, 10% to 40% of the height of the door element, preferably 15% to 30%.

[0012] In principle, it is possible to provide a manually operated folding step that has no drive mechanism. However, a drive system is preferably provided that powers the folding step, i.e., the folding and unfolding of the surface element. The drive system is preferably electrically powered and includes a suitably designed and appropriate electric motor.

[0013] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the drive system or its components are arranged inside the vehicle when the folding step is folded in, i.e., when the door is closed.

[0014] A holding system for the folding step preferably comprises two levers articulated together, a first lever being pivotably connected to the vehicle at one end and pivotally connected to the second lever at the other end, the second lever being pivotably connected to a tread surface at its other free end facing away from the first lever.

[0015] Preferably, two holding systems are provided, which are connected to the surface element and the vehicle on both sides. The two holding systems can be driven jointly by a single electric motor or each by its own drive motor.

[0016] Advantageously, the levers can be connected to each other via a common joint, which controls and synchronizes the movements of the levers or the two parallel-arm systems. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the joint can be designed as a type of crank mechanism. The folding step is preferably driven via the joint. A motor required for this purpose and connected to the joint is preferably located inside the vehicle when the folding step is folded down, i.e., when the door is closed.

[0017] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, both holding systems each feature two pairs of levers, each connected to the surface element and the vehicle. A first mounting trapezoid is arranged on the step surface for each holding system. This trapezoid has a first mounting side that runs diagonally to the step surface, to which the two levers of the holding system are hinged side by side. In this way, the step is securely held horizontally when extended.

[0018] On the vehicle side, a second mounting trapezoid is arranged for each mounting system, which has a second mounting side running diagonally to the unfolded step surface, to which the two other levers of the mounting system are hinged side by side.

[0019] The first and second fastening sides preferably enclose an angle of 60° to 120°, preferably 90°, when the tread surface is folded in.

[0020] The position of the unfolded surface element or the unfolded step surface can be easily changed in the X, Y, and Z directions using suitable adjustment elements. These adjustment elements can, for example, be formed by the mounting systems themselves. However, other suitable adjustment elements are also conceivable, such as elongated holes or indexing, interlocking rotary discs.

[0021] The height difference of the unfolded surface element relative to the vehicle floor inside the vehicle or to the platform can preferably be changed by varying the angles of the levers of the holding systems relative to each other and / or to the vehicle. The inclination of the step surface or the unfolded surface element relative to a horizontal plane is also preferably adjustable.

[0022] A particular advantage is that the panel element, when folded in, can act as a locking element, holding and closing the door leaf in a doorway. For example, when folded in, the panel element can rest against the outer side of the upper panel element, blocking it in the opening direction.

[0023] The following figures illustrate the basic operating principle and structure of a door system according to the invention in a highly simplified schematic representation. The elements shown are not to scale, and components not essential to the invention are omitted. The invention is not intended to be limited to the initial example shown; rather, it also encompasses further embodiments of the basic idea. Modifications to these embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention. The figures show: Fig. 1: A door system with a closed and locked door leaf in cross-section from the side, Fig. 2: the door system made of Fig. 1 in cross-section from the side with the folding step partially extended, Fig. 3: the door system made of Fig. 1. Sectional view from the side with the folding step extended.

[0024] The figures each show a schematic and highly simplified representation of a door system 20 according to the invention for a vehicle 22, for example, a rail vehicle. A vehicle wheel 21, which rolls on a rail 23, is indicated. The door system 20 has a door leaf 24 that closes a door opening. The door leaf 24 has an integrated folding step 26, which has a surface element 28 that, in the unfolded state, forms a tread 30 and, in the folded-in state, forms a section of the door leaf 24.

[0025] The door leaf 24 is thus essentially formed from two elements, namely the surface element 28 and a further surface element 32, which corresponds to the rest of the door leaf. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface element 28 of the folding step 26 forms a lower area of ​​the door leaf 24 facing a surface or platform 38.

[0026] The surface element 28, with its side facing the interior of the vehicle when closed, forms the step surface 30, and with its side facing outwards when closed, forms an area of ​​an outer surface of the door leaf 24 (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 3).

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the surface element 28 is connected to the vehicle 22 on both sides in the horizontal plane via levers 34 and 36, which are articulated to each other and form a holding system. A first lever 34 is connected at one end to the vehicle 22 and at its other end to the second lever 36. The second lever 36 is connected at its other free end, opposite the first lever 34, to the surface element 28. An electric motor (not shown) drives the folding step 26; the levers 34 and 36 and the motor together form a drive system. Furthermore, sensors (not shown) can be provided to monitor the distance to the platform 38.

[0028] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the distance of the surface element 28, serving as the step 30, to the platform 38 can be adjusted by varying the deflection of the levers 34 and 36. It is also possible to adjust the surface element 28, or step 30, with respect to its inclination to the ground, whereby the change in inclination is also effected via the levers 34 and 36. The levers 34 and 36 thus serve as adjustment elements for the alignment of the folding step 26; however, other suitable and possibly additional elements are also conceivable.

[0029] On the surface element 28 or the tread surface 30, a first mounting trapezoid 40 is provided for the second levers 36, which has a first mounting side 42 running diagonally to the tread surface, on which the two levers 36 of the drive system are articulated side by side in a direction transverse to the vehicle 22.

[0030] A second fastening trapezoid 44 is arranged on the vehicle 22 and has a second fastening side 46 running diagonally to the unfolded step surface 30, to which the two first levers 34 are hinged side by side.

[0031] Advantageously, the levers 34 and 36 are connected to each other via a common joint 35. The joint 37 controls and synchronizes the movements of the levers 34 and 36, or of the two parallel arm systems. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the joint 37 can be designed as a type of crank mechanism. The drive of the folding step 26 can preferably be effected via the joint 37.

[0032] The first and second fastening sides 42, 46 enclose an angle of 60° to 120°, preferably 70° to 100°, when the folding step 26 is folded in the folded state.

[0033] The figures also illustrate that, in the closed state of the hinged step 26, the surface element 28 rests against the other surface element 32 with its side edge facing the other surface element 32, thus blocking it in the opening direction. The hinged step 26 therefore also serves to lock the door leaf 24 or the other surface element 32. In the initial example shown, a recess 48 is provided in the lower area of ​​the other surface element 32, facing the surface element 28, in which the corresponding side edge of the surface element 28 rests. This results in a continuously flat, flush outer surface of the door leaf 24; the surface element 28 does not protrude from the other surface element 32.

[0034] Advantageously, the drive system and the kinematic components of the folding step 26 are placed inside the vehicle 22 and are therefore better protected against environmental influences and external loads.

[0035] The Fig. Figures 1-3 show the folding mechanism of the folding step 26. In the first phase, the door leaf 24 is closed and locked. The folding step 26 is integrated into the door leaf 24 and is in the folded position. In this position, the folding step 26 forms the lower part of the door leaf 24 and requires no additional installation space.

[0036] In the second phase, the upper part of the door leaf 24 remains closed, as does the other surface element 32, while the folding step 26 unfolds. The surface element 28 moves outwards.

[0037] In the third phase, the folding step 26 is fully extended. The door leaf 24, which is in Fig.The folding step, shown closed at point 3, can be opened. The position of the unfolded step can be adjusted in the X, Y, and Z directions to ensure optimal alignment with the platform or the vehicle's boarding area. The folding step 26 is then stable and ready for use.

[0038] The illustrations clarify the kinematics and functionality of the folding step 26 in the various phases of operation. The depicted lever mechanisms and drive systems are designed to provide a reliable and robust solution for vehicle access without requiring additional installation space and while simultaneously being protected against external influences.

[0039] The design of the invention ensures a stable and secure step surface 30 when unfolded and a reliable locking function when the folding step 26 is folded in. Reference figures 20 door systems 21 vehicle wheel 22 vehicles 23 rail 24 door leaves 26 folding steps 28 surface elements 30 tread surface 32 Further surface element 34 First lever 36 Second lever 37 joint Platform 38 40 First fastening trapezoid 42 First fastening side 44 Second fastening trapezoid 46 Second fastening side 48 Exclusion 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 20 113 258 U1

[0005] DE 10 2008 057 537 A1

[0006] DE 10 2013 014 906 A1

[0007]

Claims

[1] Door system (20) with a door leaf (24) for a vehicle (22), characterized by an integrated folding step (26), wherein the folding step (26) has a surface element (28) which, when unfolded, forms a tread surface (30) and, when folded in, forms an area of ​​the door leaf (24). [2] Door system (20) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the surface element (28) in the folded state forms a lower area of ​​the door leaf (24) pointing towards a vehicle floor. [3] Door system (20) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized by , that a holding system is provided for folding in and out the surface element (28). [4] Door system (20) according to claim 3, characterized by , that the holding system is arranged inside the vehicle (22) when the folding step (26) is folded in the folded state. [5] Door system (20) according to claim 4, characterized by, that the holding system has two levers (34, 36) connected to each other by a hinge, of which a first lever (34) is connected at one end to the vehicle (22) and at its other end to the second lever (36), and the second lever (36) is connected at its other free end, which is away from the first lever (34), to the surface element (28). [6] Door system (20) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized by that two holding systems are provided which are connected to the surface element (28) and the vehicle (22) on both sides. [7] Door system (20) according to claim 6, characterized by that the two holding systems each have two pairs of levers (34, 36) which are each connected to the surface element (28) and the vehicle (22). [8] Door system (20) according to claim 7, characterized by, that on the surface element (28) a first fastening trapezoid (40) is arranged for each holding system, which has a first fastening side (42) running obliquely to the tread surface (30), on which the two levers (36) of the holding system are hinged side by side. [9] Door system (20) according to claim 8, characterized by , that on the vehicle side a second mounting trapezoid (44) is arranged for each mounting system, which has a second mounting side (46) running diagonally to the unfolded step surface (30), to which the two other levers (34) of the mounting system are hinged side by side. [10] Door system (20) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the first and second fastening sides (42, 46) enclose an angle of 60° to 120°, preferably 90°, when the folding step (26) is folded in the folded state. [11] Door system (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by, that the position of the unfolded surface element (28) can be changed via adjustment elements in the X, Y, and Z directions. [12] Door system (20) according to claim 11, characterized by that the adjustment elements are formed by the holding systems. [13] Door system (20) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized by , that a height difference of the unfolded surface element (28) in relation to a vehicle floor inside the vehicle (22) can be changed by different angles of the levers (34, 36) of the holding systems to each other and / or to the vehicle (22). [14] Door system (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by , that the surface element (28) acts as a locking element when folded in and closes the door leaf (24) in a door opening. [15] Door system (20) according to claim 14, characterized by, that the surface element (28) in the folded state rests on an outer side against another surface door element (32) and thus blocks the other surface door element (32) in an opening direction.

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