LIGHT VEHICLE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a light vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] From both ecological and economic perspectives, significant changes are rapidly taking place in the transportation sector. This particularly affects passenger transport. To meet current and future requirements, it is important to find a good compromise between the general need for sustainability and the individual desire for comfort and safety. Increased use of local public transport (LPT) services often fails due to a lack of acceptance among large sections of the population. The so-called "first and last mile" aspect is seen as particularly problematic. While central locations are generally well connected to the public transport network, the journey from the actual starting point, such as one's home, to a central transport hub, as well as from such a hub to the final destination, is generally associated with increased effort.This is particularly true in rural areas, but also affects urban areas. The effort required to complete the first and last leg of a journey on foot or by changing trains several times is often considered disproportionately high. A sufficiently extensive expansion of the existing public transport infrastructure to ensure almost universal accessibility with minimal effort is ruled out for economic reasons. As a result, even fundamental advocates of public transport often prefer private motorized transport (MIT).

[0003] Combined solutions, such as cycling part of the way and taking the bike on public transport, often fail because taking a bike or a similarly sized means of transport is not always possible on all public transport options. This is often problematic even for a single bike. The additional transport of an expected large number of bikes, scooters, etc. is ultimately not feasible with the current public transport infrastructure. In any case, a bike or similar item ultimately represents a comparatively bulky piece of luggage when traveling on public transport. A folding bike, for example, can be folded up for space-saving transport. However, this process is usually strenuous and time-consuming and is therefore hardly worthwhile when using public transport for short or medium distances.

[0004] A possibility, not only including bicycles, of bringing a vehicle into a compact form in a simple manner, for example by folding it, and thus being able to park and store it in a space-saving manner, is known, for example, from the generic EP 3 246 235 A1.

[0005] Alternative systems that allow the collective transport of individual vehicles, similar to a car train, are generally expensive and insufficiently available due to the associated space requirements.

[0006] Another factor that reduces public acceptance of public transport is the often poor cleanliness of public transport. Time constraints and cost pressures, especially in local transport, lead to insufficient or no cleaning of passenger areas. Dirty or vandalized seats on buses or trains do not meet the comfort requirements of many passengers.

[0007] Against this background, the object of the present invention is to increase the accessibility and usability of public transport and, in doing so, to significantly increase travel comfort for passengers.

[0008] The above-mentioned object is achieved by a light vehicle having the features according to patent claim 1. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the subclaims.

[0009] According to the invention, the vehicle can be reversibly converted from a driving configuration into a seating configuration, wherein the vehicle has a seating surface in the seating configuration and wherein the distance between the front wheel structure and the rear wheel structure of the vehicle is smaller in the seating configuration than in the driving configuration.

[0010] The distance between the wheel structures in the seating configuration is dimensioned such that the vehicle remains stable in the seating configuration. This applies in particular when a user is sitting on the vehicle's seat in the seating configuration. Stability is assumed in particular if the vehicle only tips over when it tilts against the vertical axis by at least 10°, preferably at least 20°.

[0011] The ability to convert the vehicle into a space-saving seating option with little effort allows the vehicle to be taken on public transport without requiring significantly more space than a conventional seat on a bus or train would anyway. As a result, the present invention allows seamless integration into local and / or long-distance public transport by using public transport vehicles that are at least partially empty or without seats. A passenger who has traveled to a public transport stop with the vehicle according to the invention, for example, can thus use their vehicle as their own seat on public transport. However, there are no further space requirements, in particular for stowing the vehicle, as is the case with a bicycle or the like. This is particularly advantageous when there are many vehicles.As a result, a major hurdle to connecting public and private passenger transport is removed.

[0012] Using your own seat also eliminates the problem of passengers having to sit on dirty or damaged seats. Furthermore, using a personalized, preferably ergonomic seat allows the user to adjust their seating position and thus maintain comfort throughout their journey on public transport. This is particularly beneficial for people with special seat requirements for medical reasons.

[0013] It goes without saying that the vehicle according to the invention offers advantages not only in local and long-distance public transport. The invention also enables the efficient use of non-public carrier vehicles, for example in the private sector or for transporting security and emergency personnel. However, widespread use in public passenger transport, particularly in local public transport, has the greatest impact on positive ecological development. Therefore, this application is particularly emphasized here. All embodiments and advantages of the invention described with reference to the public sector also apply equally or correspondingly to the non-public sector.

[0014] Preferred embodiments of the invention are presented below. The vehicle according to the invention can have one or more of the described features in any combination.

[0015] The vehicle has an adjustment device for changing the distance between the front wheel structure and the rear wheel structure.

[0016] In addition to the driving configuration and the seating configuration, the vehicle can be converted into a transport configuration. Preferably, the distance between the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly is smaller in the transport configuration than in the seating configuration, and / or the external dimensions of the vehicle are further reduced in at least one dimension compared to the seating configuration and the driving configuration. In particular, protruding parts of the structure, such as a seat, can be removed, folded, and / or retracted, resulting in a more compact vehicle shape in the transport configuration.

[0017] The distance between the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly in the transport configuration may be less than the width of the vehicle.

[0018] The vehicle may have a multi-part structure with at least two vehicle sections that are connected to one another in particular in an articulated and / or displaceable manner, preferably wherein the front wheel structure is assigned to a front vehicle section and the rear wheel structure is assigned to a rear vehicle section.

[0019] Reducing the wheelbase ultimately reduces the vehicle's footprint when converting from a driving to a seating configuration. This significantly reduces the space required in any collective transport vehicle.

[0020] The drive system can be an electric motor, enabling the vehicle to move almost silently.

[0021] A fuel cell can be associated with the drive means.

[0022] The drive device can in particular implement a plurality of drive concepts in parallel in the sense of a hybrid drive.

[0023] The drive device acts in particular on the wheels of the rear or front wheel assembly. Preferably, both at least one wheel of the front wheel assembly and at least one wheel of the rear wheel assembly, particularly preferably all wheels, are driven.

[0024] The drive means can be designed to accelerate the vehicle to a speed of at least 5 km / h, preferably at least 10 km / h, preferably at least 25 km / h, particularly preferably at least 45 km / h.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, the vehicle can also be configured not to exceed a specific maximum speed. This is achieved, in particular, by appropriate speed control. The maximum speed is preferably a maximum of 6 km / h, preferably a maximum of 12 km / h, and more preferably a maximum of 20 km / h. Depending on the vehicle's typical application, a higher maximum speed limit, for example, a maximum of 30 km / h, a maximum of 50 km / h, or a maximum of 60 km / h, may also be provided.

[0026] An energy storage device, in particular a battery, an accumulator, or the like, can be provided from which the drive device is supplied with energy. A control device can be provided to monitor the charge level and any charging process. The energy storage device can be charged, in particular, by connecting the vehicle to the power grid, for example, to a standard household socket. Charging and / or diagnosis of the energy storage device can take place, in particular, after the vehicle has been coupled to a collective transport vehicle using an appropriately designed coupling device. The energy storage device can also be formed by or supplemented by a fuel tank.

[0027] The energy storage device preferably has a sufficient storage volume to enable a journey without recharging, refilling or replacing the energy storage device over a distance of at least 50 km, preferably at least 100 km.

[0028] The distance between the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly in the driving configuration may be at least 1 m, preferably at least 1.5 m.

[0029] The vehicle may have an open design or include a passenger compartment. The passenger compartment may be fully or partially removable and / or lockable.

[0030] In its driving configuration, the vehicle may have a body shape similar to that of a scooter, a runabout, a buggy, or a tricycle. A go-kart-like body shape is also preferred.

[0031] The vehicle may include a seat, particularly one located centrally. Furthermore, a configuration with multiple seats is also possible within the scope of the invention. Alternatively or additionally, an open or preferably separately lockable storage space for transported goods may be provided.

[0032] The seat comprises, in particular, a seat surface and a seat back. Preferably, the seat is at least partially usable in both the driving configuration and the sitting configuration, with a person sitting on the seat surface. The seating position and / or shape is preferably adjustable.

[0033] Control devices are provided, in particular, to control the vehicle during operation. These include, for example, a steering system, preferably in the form of a steering knuckle. The steering can be operated mechanically via a steering column and a steering mechanism, or it can be controlled electronically.

[0034] In principle, the vehicle is not limited to a specific steering technology. Alternatively or additionally, steering technologies known from recumbent bicycles or velomobiles, such as tank steering, understeering, topsteering, or a UDC ("around the knee") handlebar or a so-called aerobar, can be implemented.

[0035] Similarly, control elements for accelerating and decelerating the vehicle can be based on a mechanical or electronic operating principle, or a combination of both. In particular, mechanically acting elements such as a steering column and / or pedals are designed such that they can be retracted and / or pivoted away when transitioning from the driving configuration to the seating and / or transport configuration.

[0036] A coupling device may be provided for coupling the vehicle to a corresponding coupling receptacle, in particular a coupling receptacle of a collective transport means. The collective transport means is, in particular, a bus, a railroad or train, a ferry, or a cable car or gondola. The coupling device may, in particular, be designed, in particular standardized, for coupling the vehicle to several different collective transport means.

[0037] The coupling device is, in particular, part of a coupling system. The coupling system can comprise, on the collective transport means side, a single receptacle for the coupling device or a rail system for connection to one or more coupling devices. The coupling device as such can further comprise a hook arrangement that serves for connection to a corresponding receptacle. Alternatively or additionally, the coupling device can be designed to be connected to a particularly standardized receptacle according to the principle of a docking station. By using a collective transport means, greater distances can be covered in a more economical and environmentally friendly manner than would normally be possible by private transport. In this context, the vehicle according to the invention serves, in particular, to bridge the so-called "first and last mile," i.e.the routes between the exact starting or destination point and the access point to the collective transport means, which serves as a means of transport on the main part of the route to be covered between the starting and destination points.

[0038] The vehicle may have a particularly extendable handle element.

[0039] A locking device is provided for blocking at least one wheel, preferably all wheels.

[0040] The locking device can be activated by moving the vehicle into the seat configuration.

[0041] The locking device can alternatively or additionally be activated and / or deactivated by an operating device arranged in particular on the handle element.

[0042] The vehicle may have a preferably extendable or pivotable support device for stabilizing the vehicle in a standing position, particularly in the transport configuration.

[0043] Further aspects of the invention can be found in the following description of exemplary embodiments. All features described or illustrated in the drawings constitute independent aspects of the invention, regardless of their combination in the embodiments shown or in the claims.

[0044] It shows: Fig. 1 is a perspective schematic representation of a vehicle according to the invention in a preferred embodiment, Fig. 2 is a side view of the vehicle from Fig. 1 , Fig. 3 a perspective schematic representation of a part of the vehicle of Fig. 1 , Fig. 4 a perspective schematic representation of a further preferred embodiment of the vehicle according to the invention, Fig. 5 a side view of the vehicle from Fig. 4 in driving configuration, Fig. 6 a side view of the vehicle from Fig. 4 in seat configuration, Fig. 7 a side view of the vehicle from Fig. 4in transport configuration and Fig. 8 a perspective schematic representation of another preferred embodiment of the vehicle according to the invention.

[0045] In Fig. 1 A vehicle 1 according to the invention is shown in a driving configuration. The preferred embodiment of the vehicle 1 shown has a total of four wheels 2, each distributed in pairs between a front wheel assembly 3 and a rear wheel assembly 4.

[0046] However, each wheel assembly 3, 4 may also have a different number of wheels 2. Alternatively, for example, an embodiment is also preferred in which the rear wheel assembly 4 has only one wheel 2.

[0047] The vehicle 1 has a drive device 5, which is in particular an electric motor, preferably an electric hub motor. Alternatively or additionally, an internal combustion engine can also be provided to propel the vehicle 1.

[0048] An energy storage device (not shown in detail) can be provided to supply energy to the drive device 5. This can be, in particular, a rechargeable and / or replaceable accumulator and / or a refillable and / or replaceable fuel tank. Although an electric drive is preferred for ecological reasons, the energy required for propulsion can alternatively or additionally be provided from fossil fuels, for example, gasoline, diesel fuel, natural gas, and / or LPG.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, the energy supply of the vehicle 1, in particular the drive device 5, can also be provided by means of a photovoltaic device and / or by means of a fuel cell.

[0050] The vehicle 1 has a seat 6 on which a user, in particular a driver of the vehicle 1, can sit. To increase safety and comfort for the user, the vehicle 1 can further have a backrest 7 and / or a headrest 8.

[0051] The seat surface 6, the backrest 7, and / or the headrest 8 are preferably adjustable in position and / or inclination. Preferably, separate adjustment of the respective elements is possible. Fixation is achieved, in particular, by means of a locking joint and / or a form-fitting element.

[0052] InIn the illustrated driving configuration, the driver sitting on the seat 6 is at least partially surrounded by a safety bar 9. The safety bar 9 prevents the driver from falling out of the vehicle 1 when lateral acceleration occurs, for example, when cornering. Furthermore, the safety bar 9 can also be used to attach other functional devices of the vehicle 1.

[0053] The vehicle 1 is preferably controlled by means of a control device 10. In particular, the direction of travel of the vehicle 1 can be changed during travel by means of the control device 10 in the sense of steering. Alternatively or additionally, the control device 10 can serve to control the drive device 5, so that, for example, the driving speed can be adjusted.

[0054] Furthermore, other functional devices of the vehicle 1 can also be controlled, activated, and / or deactivated using the control device 10. The control device 10 serves, in particular, as a user interface between the vehicle 1 and the driver or user. For this purpose, the control device 10 preferably has a corresponding input means and / or a display device. It is understood that different functions of the control device 10 do not necessarily have to be assigned to the same component.

[0055] In particular, the control of functions relating to locomotion, for example steering and / or speed, can be carried out by a structurally different component than the influencing of other functional devices of the vehicle 1. Preferably, a separate steering device, in particular a steering wheel, is provided at least for the steering of the vehicle 1.

[0056] The steering of the vehicle 1 is preferably carried out using a so-called Ackermann arrangement, which ensures a steering angle for each wheel 2 corresponding to the respective curve radius when cornering.

[0057] At the Fig. 1 and 2 In the embodiment shown, the control device 10 is supported by an optional holding element 11. By means of the holding element 11, in particular, a mechanical and / or electronic connection of the control device 10 to further functional devices of the vehicle 1 is established. The holding element 11 can, for example, comprise or contain a steering column and / or a steering shaft. Alternatively or additionally, the holding element can also have a data line and / or a line for supplying power to the control device 10. The holding device 11 can also serve merely as a carrier for such a connecting line, a steering column and / or a steering shaft.

[0058] The control device 10 can alternatively or additionally also be connected to other devices of the vehicle 1. In particular, if only an electronic connection is required, the control device 10 can ultimately be attached to any component of the vehicle 1, in particular to the safety bar 9.

[0059] Furthermore, a wireless connection of the control device 10 to devices of the vehicle 1 can also be provided. Preferably, the control device 10 is designed to be removable and / or can be used by the user as a separate component that is connected to the other components of the vehicle 1 only via a connection, in particular a wireless one, for data transmission and / or energy transmission.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the control device 10 is to be held by the user as a separate component, separate from the rest of the vehicle 1, and is preferably inserted into a corresponding holder or attached to a holding element 11 for charging a battery of the control device 10. Charging a battery of the control device 10 is then carried out inductively, in particular.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, a holder for a tablet computer and / or a smartphone can be provided.

[0062] In particular, the vehicle 1 can be at least partially configured for control by means of a tablet computer and / or a smartphone. A preferred function controlled in this way is, for example, unlocking or releasing the vehicle 1 through user identification. Furthermore, functional settings can be made using a tablet computer, a smartphone, and / or the control device 10. Furthermore, technical parameters, such as the distance traveled, the charge or fill level of an energy storage device, or error messages, can be read out in a corresponding manner.

[0063] Fig. 3shows only the lower part of the vehicle 1. For the sake of clarity, the upper body parts, such as the seat 6 and associated components, as well as the retaining element 11, have been omitted from this illustration. This illustration can be used to explain the structure and function of the relevant parts of the vehicle 1. The parts shown form, in particular, a chassis of the vehicle 1.

[0064] The vehicle 1 has an adjustment device 12 by means of which the distance between the front wheel assembly 3 and the rear wheel assembly 4 can be reduced. This allows the vehicle 1 to be converted from the driving configuration to a seating configuration. The reduced distance between the wheel assemblies 3, 4 significantly reduces the space required relative to the footprint of the vehicle 1, so that the vehicle 1 can be easily positioned in a designated location on a public transport system or a shared transport system. Despite the smaller space requirement, the design of the chassis comprising the front wheel assembly 3 and the rear wheel assembly 4 ensures that the vehicle 1 remains stable in the seating configuration.

[0065] Moving the vehicle 1 is not intended for use in the seated configuration. For this purpose, one or more wheels 2 can be locked using a locking device. This prevents unintentional movement, slipping, or rolling of the vehicle 1 in the seated configuration. The locking device can be activated by transferring the vehicle 1 to the seated configuration.

[0066] Preferably, the vehicle 1 has a front vehicle section 13 and a rear vehicle section 14, wherein the front wheel structure 3 is assigned to the front vehicle section 13 and the rear wheel structure 4 is assigned to the rear vehicle section 14.

[0067] The vehicle sections 13, 14 are connected to one another in particular in an articulated and / or displaceable manner. For this purpose, the front vehicle section 13 preferably has a base frame 15, which cooperates with the adjustment device 12 to connect the vehicle sections 13, 14.

[0068] As can be seen in particular from the side view of vehicle 1 according to Fig. 2 As can be seen, the base frame 15 in the embodiment described here has a straight shape and can be inserted into the complementarily shaped adjusting device 12. As a result, the front wheel structure 3 is moved closer to the rear wheel structure 4, so that the dimensions of the vehicle 1, in particular the length, are significantly reduced.

[0069] The base frame is preferably made of a material with a correspondingly strong structure, or has one. In particular, a material made from renewable raw materials is used.

[0070] The transfer of the vehicle 1 from the driving configuration to the seating configuration is explained below using a further preferred embodiment of the vehicle 1.

[0071] The Fig. 4 to 7 The design of the vehicle shown provides that the base frame 15 and the adjustment device 12 have a curved shape. This is particularly evident from the lateral view of the Fig. 5 , which shows the vehicle 1 in the driving configuration. In this embodiment, the vehicle 1 also has a front vehicle section 13 and a rear vehicle section 14.

[0072] In addition to the adjustment device 12 and the rear wheel structure 4, the rear vehicle section 14 is also assigned, in particular, a seat frame 16. Preferably, the seat surface 6, the backrest 7, and / or the safety bar 9 are preferably mounted on the seat frame 16 in an articulated manner.

[0073] The front vehicle section 13 is assigned in particular the base frame 15, the front wheel structure 3 and / or the holding element 11.

[0074] Preferably, the seat frame 16 serves at least substantially as a support for those structural components that serve to support the user. The base frame 15 particularly imparts structural stability to the vehicle 1 and preferably carries all essential components of the vehicle 1. By connecting the base frame 15 to the seat frame 16 via the adjustment device 12, flexibility is maintained despite the high stability, particularly with regard to the ability to convert the vehicle 1 from the driving configuration to the seating configuration and vice versa, i.e., using the vehicle 1 either as a means of transport or as a seating option.

[0075] Preferably, the seat frame 16, the seat-related structures, i.e., the seat surface 6, backrest 7, and headrest 8, the adjustment device 12, and / or the rear wheel structure 4 are guided and / or displaceable on the base frame 15. In particular, by means of a locking pin and / or an eccentric lever, the corresponding components can be locked in different defined positions and / or, in particular, clamped relative to the base frame 15 with at least substantially no play.

[0076] To protect the driver from weather and other environmental influences, the Fig. 4 to 7 In the embodiments of the vehicle 1 shown, a shield is provided which has a lower pane 17 and an upper pane 18. The panes 17, 18 can be made of the same or different materials. Polycarbonate and / or PMMA or a comparable material is preferably used.

[0077] The upper pane 18 preferably has a transparent region or is entirely transparent. Alternatively or additionally, the upper pane 18 can also have a recess and / or a viewing window. The lower pane 17 can be completely non-transparent to provide external visibility to the driver and the lower area of ​​the vehicle 1. Furthermore, the lower pane 17 can also be partially or completely transparent.

[0078] The lower pane 17 is particularly associated with the front vehicle section 13 and can also be attached to the base frame 15, for example, by a snap-in and / or plug-in connection. The upper pane 18 is preferably mounted such that it is held by a support device 19. Alternatively or additionally, the upper pane 18 can also be attached to or with the lower pane 17 and / or to the safety bar 9.

[0079] For assembly, the upper pane 18 is preferably pushed over the support device 19 until it reaches the lower pane 17. In the final position, the upper pane can be secured, for example, by latching and / or clamping. In particular, the upper pane 18 is fixed to the safety bar 9, preferably by a frictional, snap-fit, and / or positive-locking connection. Furthermore, the use of a positive-locking fixing element to fix the lower panes 17 and / or upper pane 18 is also possible.

[0080] As an alternative to the multi-part design of the shield presented here, in particular in the form of the lower pane 17 and the upper pane 18, a one-part design can also be provided in which a single pane, in particular only a lower pane 17 or an upper pane 18, depending on the assignment, is provided.

[0081] The transfer of vehicle 1 from the Fig. 5 shown driving configuration into the Fig. 6 The seat configuration shown is achieved in particular by inserting the base frame 15 into the adjustment device 12. In the curved design of the base frame 15 and the adjustment device 12 as well as the seat frame 16 shown here, all interacting components preferably have at least substantially the same curvature. As a result, the inserted base frame 15, in the seat configuration, nestles against the seat frame 16 with little play. In this way, a particularly compact shape of the vehicle 1 in the seat configuration is achieved.

[0082] The lower disc 17 and / or the upper disc 18 can be removed for conversion from the driving configuration to the seating configuration and arranged in a space-saving manner on the base frame 15 or the seat frame 16. For this purpose, the disc 17, 18 has, in particular, a curvature that is at least substantially the same as that of the base frame 15 or the seat frame 16.

[0083] The holding element 11 or a steering column can be pivotable and / or, if appropriate, have at least substantially the same curvature as the base frame 15. In this case, the holding element 11 or the steering column can be easily attached to the base frame 15 in a space-saving manner to convert the vehicle 1 into the seating configuration before the distance between the front wheel assembly 3 and the rear wheel assembly 4 is reduced. The base frame 15 preferably has a corresponding receptacle for the holding element 11 or the steering column and / or a disc 17, 18.

[0084] Preferably, the steering is locked in the center when the holding device 11 or the steering column is applied.

[0085] The relative position of the front vehicle section 13 and the rear vehicle section 14, or of the base frame 15 and the adjustment device 12, can preferably be fixed in defined positions. Fixing is achieved, in particular, by a locking means. Alternatively or additionally, fixing is also possible by a form-locking element, for example, a locking pin and / or a safety pin.

[0086] To convert the vehicle into the seating configuration, the safety bar 9 is preferably swung away and / or removed, in particular swung upwards. This creates a seating option for the user.

[0087] The ergonomic shape of the seat surface 6, the backrest 7, and / or the headrest 8 ensures a high degree of comfort for the user. This makes it possible to sit in the seated configuration on the vehicle 1 even for longer journeys. This makes the vehicle 1 particularly suitable as a seat for longer journeys, for example on long-distance public transport. However, the advantages of an ergonomically shaped, personalized seat also apply to public transport. In particular, commuters who travel short or medium distances on each journey, but often at high frequency, benefit from the corresponding design of the vehicle 1 according to the invention.

[0088] For the stationary positioning of the vehicle 1, particularly in the seated configuration, a coupling device can also be provided in addition to a locking device, which allows the vehicle 1 to be coupled to a corresponding coupling receptacle. The coupling receptacle can be assigned to a collective transport means, for example, a public transport system, or be part of it.

[0089] Furthermore, docking and positioning of the vehicle 1 on another fixed support, such as a grandstand, is also possible. Such an application is particularly suitable for event locations, in cinemas, theaters, at concerts, in stadiums, or similar locations. As a result, the user of the vehicle 1 can drive to the desired location in the driving configuration and, by converting the vehicle 1 into the seating configuration, create a seat for themselves while watching an event or performance. For an event organizer, this eliminates both the requirement to provide sufficient parking space for visitor vehicles and the need to ensure that the event space is fully furnished.

[0090] At public events, in event buildings or on event areas, appropriate coupling receptacles or docking devices are preferably provided to secure the visitors' vehicles 1, particularly in the seating configuration. Alternatively or additionally, a connection for energy and / or data transmission can be established to the vehicles 1, so that, for example, an energy storage device is charged during the event. Data transmission also makes it possible to involve visitors in the event, for example by displaying data on a display device of the vehicle 1. This allows, for example, additional content, such as subtitles, to be transmitted or interactive options, such as audience voting, to be implemented.

[0091] For simplified transport of the vehicle 1, in a preferred embodiment, this can also be Fig. 7 The transport configuration can be transferred to the illustrated transport configuration. Compared to the driving configuration and the seating configuration, the transport configuration is characterized by an even more compact shape of the vehicle 1. In particular, the vehicle 1 in the transport configuration can be pulled or pushed by the user, similar to a trolley.

[0092] The ability of the vehicle 1 to be converted into different configurations not only offers advantages for transporting people over long distances, but also generally leads to a high degree of multifunctionality. The vehicle 1 can, for example, be used as a shopping cart, in which purchases are initially collected as usual and pushed through a store. After payment, however, there is no need to transfer the items into a vehicle, such as a car or cargo bike. Instead, the vehicle 1 according to the invention is simply converted from the transport configuration to the driving configuration and thus serves as a means of locomotion and transport for users and purchases. At the destination, it is preferably converted again into the transport configuration so that the purchases can be conveniently transported further. This enables, in particular, transport from the store to the home without the need for transferring the items.The corresponding advantages arise in a comparable way if vehicle 1 is used in the seat configuration in a public transport system after shopping.

[0093] Another possible application for vehicle 1 is golf, for example. In its transport configuration, it can serve as a trolley for transporting a golf bag or clubs. For this purpose, a suitable holder for a golf bag or similar is preferably provided. For covering longer distances on the golf course, a separate golf cart is also unnecessary. The vehicle 1 according to the invention fulfills this purpose after being converted into the driving configuration. The vehicle 1 can be converted back into the transport configuration and / or the seating configuration at any time with little effort to serve as a trolley or as a seat for the golfer.

[0094] The aforementioned application situations are listed merely as examples to illustrate the general multifunctionality of the vehicle 1 according to the invention. It is understood that the invention yields a multitude of further possible uses with regard to flexible passenger and / or freight transport. Appropriate adaptations to the vehicle 1 may be required for specific applications, for example, in the form of a special mount for add-on parts, a particularly large storage space, etc. However, these do not, in particular, limit the functionality of the invention.

[0095] Preferably, projecting parts, such as the seat surface 6, are retracted, folded in, and / or removed relative to the seat configuration for transfer into the transport configuration. In the present example, the seat surface 6 is pivoted downwards. Alternatively or additionally, the safety bar 9 is also pivoted away, retracted, and / or removed, provided this has not already been done for transfer into the seat configuration. In the example shown here, the safety bar 9 is pivoted downwards from the upwardly pivoted position of the seat configuration for transfer into the transport configuration and, in particular, lies at least substantially against the seat surface 6 and / or parallel to the seat surface 6.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, the time for transferring the vehicle 1 from the driving configuration to the seating configuration is at most 60 seconds, preferably at most 30 seconds, from the seating configuration to the transport configuration is at most 20 seconds, preferably at most 10 seconds, and / or from the driving configuration to the transport configuration is at most 60 seconds, preferably at most 30 seconds.

[0097] The securing bracket 9 and / or the seat surface 6 can preferably be fixed in defined positions, in particular in the extended and / or retracted state. A snap-in connection and / or a positively acting fixing element can be used for this purpose.

[0098] In the transport configuration, the vehicle 1 can preferably be easily moved by the user using a handle element. Such a handle element can be provided as a separate handle of the vehicle 1. However, a component of the vehicle 1 with a different function, in particular the carrying device 19, can also be used as a handle element.

[0099] To further reduce the dimensions of the vehicle 1 in the transport configuration, the distance between the front wheel assembly 3 and the rear wheel assembly 4 can preferably be further reduced compared to the seat configuration. For this purpose, the rear wheel assembly 4 can comprise a swing arm 20 or be attached to a swing arm 20, or be connected to the adjustment device 12 and / or the seat frame 16 by means of a swing arm 20.

[0100] The swing arm 20 is in particular articulated so that the rear wheel structure 4, as in Fig. 7shown, can be pivoted further towards the front wheel structure 3.

[0101] By means of a rocker arm 20, the rear wheel assembly 4 can be moved closer to the front wheel assembly 3 even when transitioning from the driving to the seating configuration. This gives the vehicle 1 more compact external dimensions. Furthermore, the inclination of the vehicle 1 or the seat surface 6 and / or the backrest 7 relative to the ground is set more steeply, enabling a more comfortable and upright sitting position. Preferably, the rocker arm 20 or the rear wheel assembly 4 pivots automatically toward the front wheel assembly 3 when the vehicle 1 is slightly raised during transition to the seating configuration.

[0102] The swing arm 20 allows, alternatively or additionally, an increase in comfort through vibration damping. For this purpose, the swing arm 20 can be elastically or spring-mounted, so that the rear wheel assembly 4 returns to a neutral position after a deflection. This prevents shocks acting on the rear wheel assembly 4 during travel from being transmitted to the driver. A non-rigid connection between the rear wheel assembly 4 and the adjustment device 12 or the seat frame 16 thus ensures dynamic stabilization of the rear section 14 of the vehicle.

[0103] For locomotion with the vehicle 1, a biomechanical drive option is provided as an alternative or in addition to the drive device 5. A pedal crank assembly 21 is particularly suitable for biomechanically driven locomotion. On the one hand, the pedal crank assembly 21 can achieve biomechanical propulsion of the vehicle 1 if the muscle power exerted on the pedals 22 is transmitted to at least one wheel 2, in particular at least one wheel 2 of the front wheel structure 3. On the other hand, the pedal crank assembly 21 can be designed such that a chain wheel 23 is moved by the actuation of pedals 22. The chain wheel 23 acts on a chain pinion 25 via a chain 24. The chain pinion 25 is in particular smaller than the chain wheel 23.

[0104] Instead of a chain 24, a connection between the chain wheel 23 and the chain pinion 25 can also be made by a toothed belt.

[0105] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the vehicle 1 is powered solely by the energy supplied by the user. In this variant, locomotion is possible in a particularly ecologically compatible manner. On the other hand, the physical activity also promotes the health of the user. This is fundamentally the case with all biomechanically powered vehicles. However, the vehicle 1 according to the invention is significantly more suitable for everyday use in comparison. Due to the problem-free use in conjunction with a carrier vehicle, the range is significantly increased. This ultimately allows for a much more extensive and widespread use of the vehicle 1 according to the invention. The aforementioned advantages of biomechanically influenced mobility can thus now be realized to such an extent that positive overall ecological and economic effects become noticeable.

[0106] Furthermore, the additional use of muscle power can also interact with a drive device 5. In this case, a drive type used in so-called pedelecs or e-bikes is particularly preferred. Here, the biomechanical drive is supported as needed by the drive device 5, in particular a hub motor, with the extent of the support being adjustable.

[0107] Preferably, the pedal crank arrangement 21 is adjustable in its inclination and / or its distance from the seat surface 6, in particular by means of a locking joint.

[0108] An arrangement for the biomechanical drive of the vehicle 1, such as a pedal crank arrangement 21, can also be used recuperatively, ie in particular for recharging an energy storage device by means of the user's applied muscle power.

[0109] The interaction of the pedal crank assembly 21 and the drive device 5, in particular for recuperation and / or for interaction during propulsion, is preferably coupled via a toothed belt. A corresponding toothed belt arrangement is designed in particular such that even if the distance between the front wheel assembly 3 and the rear wheel assembly 4 changes, the toothed belt length can remain constant, i.e., the toothed belt remains tensioned. The toothed belt runs in particular around the chain pinion 25, by which it is preferably driven. Furthermore, the toothed belt is coupled in particular to the rear wheel assembly 4, where it runs, for example, around another, rear chain pinion.

[0110] In a preferred embodiment of the vehicle 1, the drive device 5 is assigned to the rear wheel structure 4.

[0111] Preferably, the pedal crank arrangement 21 is further constructed such that the applied muscle force acts directly or indirectly on at least one wheel 2 of the front wheel structure 3.

[0112] At the Fig. 8 In the further preferred embodiment of the vehicle 1 according to the invention shown, a preferably circumferential frame is provided, which connects the rear vehicle section 14 and the front vehicle section 13 above or in front of the user. This creates a substantially closed shape of the vehicle 1. In particular, by enclosing an area around the driver, a type of passenger cell is created, which offers the driver additional safety, particularly in the event of a collision.

[0113] In the present case, the frame is constructed in several parts and comprises a rear frame part 26 and a front frame part 27. It is understood that such a frame can also be constructed in one part. To transfer the vehicle 1 from the Fig. 8 shown driving configuration into a seating configuration and / or a transport configuration, the frame is retracted in particular by pushing the frame parts 26, 27 together, whereby the vehicle 1 receives a compact external shape, as previously described.

[0114] The frame parts 26, 27 may further each have a shield, similar to the previously described panes 17, 18. List of reference symbols:

[0115] 1Vehicle 2Wheel 3Front wheel assembly 4Rear wheel assembly 5Drive mechanism 6Seat 7Backrest 8Headrest 9Safety bar 10Steering mechanism 11Holding element 12Adjustment mechanism 13Front vehicle section 14Rear vehicle section 15Base frame 16Seat frame 17Lower disc 18Upper disc 19Carrying mechanism 20Swing arm 21Crank assembly 22Pedal 23Sprocket 24Chain 25Chain pinion 26Rear frame section 27Front frame section

Claims

1. Light vehicle (1), having a front wheel structure (3) which has at least two wheels (2), having a rear wheel structure (4) which has at least one wheel (2), and having a drive device (5) for the autonomous movement of the vehicle (1), wherein an adjusting device (12) for changing the distance between the front wheel structure (3) and the rear wheel structure (4) is provided, by means of which adjusting device (12) the vehicle (1) can be reversibly transferred from a driving configuration into a seating configuration which is more compact in comparison to the driving configuration, wherein the vehicle (1) has a seat surface (6) in the seating configuration, and wherein the distance between the front wheel structure (3) and the rear wheel structure (4) of the vehicle (1) is smaller in the seating configuration than in the driving configuration, and the vehicle (1), in a stable state, takes up a smaller footprint than in the driving configuration, characterized in that a fixing device for blocking at least one wheel (2), preferably all wheels (2), is provided, wherein the fixing device can be activated by transferring the vehicle (1) into the seating configuration.

2. Vehicle according to Claim 1, characterized in that the vehicle (1) can also be transferred into a transport configuration, preferably wherein the distance between the front wheel structure (3) and the rear wheel structure (4) is smaller in the transport configuration than in the seating configuration.

3. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the front wheel structure (3) is assigned to a front vehicle section (13), and the rear wheel structure (4) is assigned to a rear vehicle section (14).

4. Vehicle according to Claim 3, characterized in that the front vehicle section (13) and the rear vehicle section (14) are connected to one another in an articulated manner.

5. Vehicle according to Claim 3, characterized in that the front vehicle section (13) and the rear vehicle section (14) are connected to one another in a displaceable manner.

6. Vehicle according to one of Claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the front vehicle section (13) has an in particular arcuate basic frame (15), and / or the rear vehicle section (14) has an in particular arcuate adjusting device (12) and / or an in particular arcuate seating frame (16).

7. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive device (5) comprises an electric motor, and / or in that a fuel cell and / or a photovoltaic device is / are assigned to the drive device (5).

8. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vehicle (1) is designed for biomechanically driven locomotion, preferably by means of a pedal crank device (21).

9. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive device (5) is suitable for accelerating the vehicle (1) to a speed of at least 5 km / h, preferably at least 10 km / h, preferably at least 25 km / h, particularly preferably at least 45 km / h.

10. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a coupling device for coupling the vehicle (1) to a corresponding coupling receptacle, in particular a coupling receptacle of a collective transport means, is provided.

11. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an in particular extendable grip element is provided.

12. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a preferably extendable or pivotable support device for stabilizing the vehicle (1) in a standing position, in particular in the transport configuration, is provided.