COUPLING COMPONENT, COUPLING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING A COUPLING COMPONENT

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a coupling component, a system for coupling between a tractor unit and a semi-trailer, and a method for connecting a coupling component to a semi-trailer.

[0002] The coupling of a semi-trailer to a tractor unit is well known in the art. For this purpose, the semi-trailer typically has a pin element, in particular a kingpin, which, when coupled, engages in a corresponding fifth wheel coupling, or coupling plate with coupling hook, on the tractor unit. In addition to the mechanical coupling of the semi-trailer to the tractor unit, successful coupling also includes connecting the tractor unit and trailer lines, such as air lines and electrical lines required for the lighting system or other electronics. A coupling component is preferably provided to guide the lines, into or on which the lines are routed to an interface area designated for the desired connection.This coupling component is preferably pivotally mounted to allow for easy alignment of the coupling lines when the tractor unit and semi-trailer are misaligned during coupling. Prior art, such as DE 10 2006 033 899 A1, describes how this coupling component can be pivotally mounted at a single point, for example, via a turntable or slewing ring. However, this approach requires the lines to be routed through the turntable or slewing ring in a complex manner, necessitating modifications to the structure above the kingpin. Alternatively, prior art also describes how the coupling component can be attached via a sleeve that surrounds the kingpin.However, it has turned out that such a connection is limited in terms of its load-bearing capacity, especially under increasing load due to an increased bending moment, which in turn inevitably arises with increasing length of the coupling component.

[0003] US 2011 / 037241 A1 describes an automatic coupling system for pneumatic and electrical connections.

[0004] Furthermore, US Patent 2,850,292 A discloses a connection between a tractor unit and a semi-trailer, in which a coupling plate is provided. This application further proposes that a trailer-side rail rests against corresponding rollers of the coupling plate and is thereby pivotable about a kingpin.

[0005] From EP 2 112 008 A1, a connector console is known which is arranged in an interface area between a tractor unit and a semi-trailer. The connector console is pivotable about a pin element and translationally mounted on a cam guide.

[0006] Based on this background, the present invention aims to provide an improved coupling component that can withstand increased loads and can be attached to the semi-trailer without the use of a turntable.

[0007] This problem is solved by a system according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 13. Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description and the accompanying figures.

[0008] According to the invention, a coupling component, in particular a boom, is provided for an interface area between a semi-trailer and a tractor unit, which can be detachably connected to each other in an interface area via a pivot element. This connection comprises a pivot-side connection area for pivoting the coupling component onto the pivot element and a rail-side connection area for sliding the coupling component onto a rail of the semi-trailer in a translational direction. In contrast to the prior art, the coupling component according to the invention is connected to the semi-trailer via two different connection areas – one pivotable and one sliding. This advantageously results in a better distribution of the forces acting on the coupling component from the outside, particularly compared to a connection via a single point or pivot point.Preferably, the coupling component is connected to the semi-trailer without a turntable. In particular, the connection area on the pivot side and the connection area on the rail side are positioned opposite each other, preferably at opposite ends of the coupling component. A coupling component is generally understood to be a part of a mechanism for coupling the semi-trailer to the tractor unit. The coupling component serves as a cantilever, in particular for guiding or supporting lines on the trailer side, which are connected to corresponding lines on the tractor unit side in the interface area. These lines may include, for example, gas or compressed air lines, or electrical lines for supplying the lighting system or other electronics.The lines can be attached to the coupling component individually or as bundles. The coupling component, or the boom, is pivotably mounted relative to the pin element. The pin element is preferably the kingpin, which, in the coupled state, engages a complementary fifth wheel coupling on the tractor unit. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the coupling component has a base body, in particular a fork-shaped base body, with side arms. The shape of the base body is essentially adapted to an entry area or a jaw-like opening of the fifth wheel coupling or coupling plate, and the entry area is located on the side of the fifth wheel coupling facing the semi-trailer in the assembled state. In particular, the base body is designed such that it is guided by the entry area or the opening of the fifth wheel coupling during coupling.The invention provides that the rail and the coupling component are mounted on the underside of the semi-trailer. In the mounted state, the coupling component is pivotally connected to the pin element and is slidably, in particular translationally, mounted on the rail of the semi-trailer. The translational direction follows an arc-shaped path that is aligned concentrically with the pin element.

[0009] Advantageously, the rail runs at least partially in a straight line and / or a semicircular shape. Preferably, the semicircular rail extends concentrically to the pivot element. For example, the rail extends over an angular range greater than 45°, preferably greater than 135°, and particularly preferably greater than 180°. The semicircular rail, or the sections of the semicircular rail, run parallel to the direction of translation. Furthermore, it is provided that the straight sections of the rail run parallel to the edges of a base plate or the vehicle frame of the semi-trailer and, in particular, do not follow the direction of translation, at least for the most part. It is also conceivable that straight and semicircular sections alternate. It is particularly preferred that the semicircular section of the rail is located behind the pivot element when viewed in the direction of travel.In particular, the rail is designed symmetrically, especially mirror-symmetrically, with respect to an imaginary central axis running longitudinally through the middle of the trailer. If several semicircular areas are provided, these semicircular areas can preferably be assigned the same radius of curvature.

[0010] According to the invention, the rail is designed as a web and / or groove. The web projects from the underside of the semi-trailer. For example, the web is mounted to the underside via one or more flanges, in particular by welding or bolting. The rail-side connection area can be mounted to such a web relatively easily. Preferably, the rail-side connection area is engaged in the web when mounted. Furthermore, the web has a profiled cross-section in a plane extending perpendicular to the direction of translation. Such a cross-section can advantageously be used to guide a complementary profile at the rail-side connection area of ​​the coupling component. It is also conceivable that the web has an undercut, a stepped profile, and / or a groove.Preferably, the profile is arranged on the side of the web facing the underside of the semi-trailer. This way, the profile faces away from the road surface and is thus protected. According to the invention, the rail is designed as a groove recessed into the underside of the semi-trailer. As such a groove, the rail is recessed into the underside of the semi-trailer and cannot cause damage if the semi-trailer pivots. To equip an existing semi-trailer with such a groove, a plate that can be mounted on the underside of the semi-trailer, into which a groove is also recessed, is conceivable.

[0011] Preferably, the ratio between the straight portion of the rail and the semicircular portion is between 0.1 and 0.6, more preferably between 0.2 and 0.5, and most preferably between 0.35 and 0.48. With an increasing straight portion, additional measures are required to ensure the pivoting movement of the coupling component, whereas a completely semicircular rail, especially a semicircular rail, fills the available space. It has been found that for a ratio between 0.35 and 0.48, a comparatively compact system of coupling component and rail can be provided, whose additional measures also allow stable and reliable pivoting via the straight portion of the rail.

[0012] Advantageously, the coupling component, when assembled, can be pivoted around the pin element by at least a swivel angle of 145°, preferably 160°, and particularly preferably 180°. This allows the coupling component to be deflected relatively far on both sides. Such a wide deflection facilitates coupling even for semi-trailer and tractor unit configurations where the center axes of the semi-trailer and tractor unit form an angle greater than 90°.

[0013] Preferably, a coupling structure and / or a slide element for connection to the rail is arranged in the rail-side connection area. Preferably, the coupling structure is designed to be complementary to the cross-sectional profile of the rail. This allows the rail-side connection area to be guided over the rail. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that a slide element is provided as a connecting link between the rail and the rail-side connection area. For example, such a slide element engages in a corresponding groove and can be guided in this groove during pivoting. It is also conceivable that the rail includes a lubricant channel to supply the contact points between the rail and the slide element or the coupling structure with lubricant.

[0014] Furthermore, it is preferred that the rail and / or the slide element be coated, preferably with a rubber-like coating. It is particularly advantageous that the coating is arranged at the contact point between the rail and the slide element. This not only reduces wear on the rail and slide element but also minimizes vibration and noise generation during the relative movement of the rail and slide element. For example, the slide element could have rollers that are at least partially, and preferably completely, encased in the coating. Preferably, the side arms of the coupling component, especially on their outer surface, are additionally provided with a damping coating to dampen noise that would otherwise be generated when the side arms strike the fifth wheel coupling.In addition, the strain on the lateral arms is reduced.

[0015] Furthermore, it can be advantageous to have stop elements at the end of the rail, specifically designed to dampen the impact of the coupling element. For example, such a stop can be implemented as a rubber element or plug at the ends of the rail.

[0016] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the rail is provided with sensor elements, wherein the sensor elements are configured to determine the current position of the coupling component on the rail. These sensor elements may, for example, be one or more pressure sensors or a camera. Detecting the current orientation can provide information about the relative position between the tractor unit and the semi-trailer, which can be used, for example, for an automatic coupling process.

[0017] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the coupling component, in particular its coupling structure, interacts with the rail in such a positive-locking manner that the positive lock essentially prevents relative movement along a vertical direction. In particular, the coupling component and the rail are designed such that the positive lock prevents the coupling component from detaching from the rail through vertical movement. This advantageously prevents the coupling component from accidentally detaching from the rail as a result of operational vibrations.

[0018] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the coupling component is connected to the rail at several contact points, with the contact points being spaced apart from each other along the rail. This increases the stability of the coupling component against twisting or torsion from the horizontal plane.

[0019] Advantageously, the coupling component, the slide element, and / or the rail are dimensionally variable, particularly extendable, to increase the potential swivel angle. These dimensional changes advantageously allow for a swivel movement of the coupling structure even beyond the semicircular section. Consequently, the rail-side connection area can continue to follow the translational direction even when the rail is no longer parallel to it. This dimensional change can be achieved as a change in length. Preferably, the slide element and the rail are extendable in a direction following the translational direction. This increases the potential travel available in the translational direction. In the case of the coupling component, the length change occurs radially outwards from the pin element.This allows the increasing distance between a straight rail and the coupling component to be bridged during pivoting, thus ensuring the coupling component's freedom of movement during pivoting. It is also conceivable that the coupling component is elastically deformable and thereby at least supports the radial extension.

[0020] Preferably, the ratio of a first side length, which the coupling component, slide element, or rail has in a retracted state, to a second side length, which the coupling component, slide element, or rail has in an extended state, takes a value between 0.1 and 0.6, preferably between 0.2 and 0.55, and particularly preferably between 0.41 and 0.49. The first side length and the second side length are measured as follows: for the slide and the rail in a direction following the translation direction and for the coupling component in a direction radially extending from the pin element.

[0021] The first and second side lengths are understood to refer specifically to the overall extent of the respective component. Preferably, the coupling component, the slide element, or the rail is extendable to both sides. For a ratio between 0.41 and 0.49, it has proven advantageous to provide a particularly stable and compact system of rail and coupling component that functions reliably even with large deflections.

[0022] The coupling component is advantageously designed for automatic coupling of the tractor unit and the semi-trailer. This means that the coupling component can be actively or passively aligned during the automated coupling of the semi-trailer to the tractor unit.

[0023] Advantageously, the rail, coupling component, and / or slide element are designed in multiple parts. This allows for the simple implementation of a telescopic mechanism that permits the desired dimensional change, preferably a change in length. The coupling component preferably integrates a telescopic mechanism into a section extending radially outward from the pin element, for example, into the side arms of the base body, a first longitudinal beam, and / or a second longitudinal beam. Furthermore, the multi-part component, i.e., the coupling component, the slide element, and / or the rail, is provided with a return mechanism that returns the component to its rest position, for example, after a pivoting movement.

[0024] Preferably, the pin-side connection area has a sleeve for attaching it to the pin element. The sleeve allows for the simplest possible pivotable connection to the pin element. Attachment preferably refers to a connection that requires a mechanism for mutual release or separation of the attached component. For example, the sleeve completely encloses the pin element. However, it is also conceivable that the sleeve has an opening, for example in the form of a slot, on its side facing the rail-side connection area or on its side facing away from it.

[0025] Advantageously, the ratio between the sleeve width in the pin-side connection area and the pin length assumes a value between 0.1 and 0.5, preferably between 0.25 and 0.48, and particularly preferably between 0.35 and 0.45. It has been found that for the ratio between 0.35 and 0.45, the resulting surface contact allows the loads to be distributed as evenly as possible across the kingpin. At the same time, the exposed area on the pin element is sufficiently large to allow for unimpeded coupling to the fifth wheel coupling on the tractor unit.

[0026] Preferably, cables are arranged or can be arranged inside and / or outside the coupling component when assembled. This allows the cables to be guided in a controlled and targeted manner using the coupling component. In particular, the coupling component also ensures that no dangling cables become entangled with the semi-trailer during the coupling process. Preferably, the cables are attached to the coupling component so that they run at the level of the side arms when assembled. It is advantageous if the cables run inside the coupling component. This provides beneficial protection for the cables. Preferably, individual cables and / or cable bundles are mounted on the coupling component.

[0027] It is advantageous for the coupling component to include a device for extending a cable. This allows the cable to achieve the necessary length change during the swiveling movement, so that the swiveling motion of the coupling component is not limited by the cable length, or the probability of damage is reduced. For example, the cable extension device could be a cable drum in which the cable is pre-tensioned with a torsion spring. Alternatively, the cable extension device could utilize a telescopic mechanism. In this case, for example, a first cable section and a second cable section are connected via a sheath element, which is slidably mounted in a holding device.The outer shell element is preferably pre-tensioned against the holding device via a spring element when the coupling component is pivoted.

[0028] A further object of the present invention is a system for coupling, in particular automatic coupling, between a tractor unit and a semi-trailer, comprising a rail and a coupling component which is pivotably mounted on a pivot element of the semi-trailer via a pin-side connection area and is slidably mounted on the rail along a translational direction via a rail-side connection area. Preferably, the system comprises a pivot element in addition to the rail and the coupling component. All features and advantages described for the coupling component according to the invention and its preferred embodiments can also be transferred analogously to the system according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0029] A further object of the present invention is a method for assembling a coupling component, in particular for retrofitting a semi-trailer, wherein the coupling component has a pin-side connection area for pivotally mounting the coupling component on the pin element and a rail-side connection area for slidingly mounting the coupling component on a rail, wherein the coupling component is connected to the pin element and the rail. All features and advantages described for the coupling component according to the invention and its preferred embodiments can also be transferred analogously to the method according to the invention and vice versa.

[0030] Further advantages and features will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying figures. Individual features of the individual embodiments can be combined with one another within the scope of the invention. The figures show... Fig. 1: A coupling component according to a first exemplary embodiment. Fig. 2: A coupling component according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3: A coupling component according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4: A coupling component according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] In Fig. 1A coupling component 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Such a coupling component 1 serves as a support structure or housing for lines that, when coupling a semi-trailer to a tractor unit, are to be guided to and connected to a corresponding connection area on the tractor unit. In particular, the alignment, guidance, and connection are to be carried out automatically; that is, when coupling the semi-trailer to the tractor unit, the connection of the line is made without an additional manual step. The lines are, for example, electrical lines and / or compressed air lines. The connection of the semi-trailer and the tractor unit is effected via a pin element 9, in particular a kingpin, which is fixed to a mounting plate 4 on an underside of the semi-trailer in a rotationally fixed manner.In the coupled state, the pin element 9 engages in a corresponding fifth wheel coupling 30 of the tractor unit, forming an interface area S (see lower figure in . Figure 1 ) a.

[0032] To reduce the loads acting on the coupling component 1, the coupling component 1 (see upper figure in Figure 1) is provided with a pin-side connection area 10 and a rail-side connection area 20. This advantageously allows for a pivotable linkage of the coupling component 1 via two points, resulting in an improved distribution of the loads. The coupling component 1 is pivotally connected to the pin element 9 via the pin-side connection area 10 and is slidably mounted on a rail 2 via the rail-side connection area 20 along a translational direction T. The rail 2 is part of the semi-trailer or rigidly connected to it. Preferably, the rail 2 extends over at least 180°, particularly concentrically to the pin element 9, i.e., in a semicircular shape. Figure 1In the example shown, the rail 2 can be attached to the underside of the semi-trailer via several flanges 7 and, after being attached, protrudes downwards from the semi-trailer.

[0033] The coupling component 1 preferably comprises a base body, in particular a fork-shaped base body, with side arms 15 which, viewed longitudinally, are connected to each other via a first crossbeam 14 on the side facing the pin element 9 in the assembled state and via a second crossbeam 18 on the side facing the rail 2 in the assembled state. The first crossbeam 14 and the second crossbeam 18 are oriented substantially parallel to each other. Furthermore, the side arms 15 are designed such that in a first sub-section T1 the distance between the side arms 15 increases in the direction of the rail-side connection area 20, and in a second sub-section T2 the distance between the side walls 15 is substantially constant. It is also provided that a first longitudinal web 16 projects from the first crossbeam 14 on the side facing the pin element 9.The first longitudinal web 16 preferably connects the base body to a sleeve 12 in which the pin element 9 is mounted. Preferably, the length of the first longitudinal web 16 is greater than the radius of the mounting plate 4 on which the pin element 9 is rotationally fixed, or the first longitudinal web 16 is dimensioned such that, viewed from the pin element 9, it projects radially beyond the outermost edge 4' of the mounting plate 4.

[0034] A second longitudinal web 17 projects from the second crossbeam 18 towards the rail 2, particularly radially from the pin element 9, with the longitudinal web 17 comprising a coupling structure 19 at one end. Preferably, the second longitudinal web 17 is oriented such that its largest surface area faces the rail 2 in the assembled state. Furthermore, in the assembled state, the second crossbeam 18 is arranged on an upper edge region of the side arms 15 that faces the underside of the semi-trailer. The coupling structure 19 is shaped to complement the contour of the rail 2 and thus ensures the sliding movement of the second longitudinal web 17 on the rail 2 along the translational direction T. In particular, the coupling structure 19 is engaged in the rail 2 in the assembled state. For example, the coupling structure 19 is a groove, a stepped profile, and / or an undercut.

[0035] In the Fig. 2 A second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The embodiment shown here differs from that shown in the Figure 1 such that the rail 2 is not curved or semicircular, but runs in a straight line. To ensure freedom of movement of the second longitudinal web 17 along the rail 2 during operation, it is preferably provided that the second longitudinal web 17 is adjustable in length. Preferably, the second longitudinal web 17 is designed to be multi-part and telescopic for this purpose.

[0036] In the Fig. 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the rail 2 is designed as a groove on the trailer side, which is specifically recessed into a base plate 8 on the underside of the semi-trailer. This prevents the rail 2 from protruding downwards from the semi-trailer and, in this form, prevents it from causing damage when the semi-trailer pivots.

[0037] In the Fig. 4In the illustrated embodiment, the rail is designed as a double T-beam, and the dome structure 9 engages in a guide groove formed on the side of the double T-beam. Furthermore, the double T-beam rail 2 has both a semicircular portion TA and a straight portion GA. Preferably, the ratio between the straight portion GA of the rail 2 and the semicircular portion TA is between 0.1 and 0.6, more preferably between 0.2 and 0.5, and most preferably between 0.35 and 0.48. Reference symbol list

[0038] 1 Coupling component 2 Rail 4 Mounting plate 4' Outer edge 7 Bottle 8 Base plate 9 Pin element 10 Pin-side connection area 14 First cross member 15 Side arm 16 First longitudinal member 17 Second longitudinal member 18 Second cross member 19 Coupling structure 20 Rail-side connection area ZL Pin length MB Sleeve width TA Partially circular section G Straight section T1 First sub-section T2 Second sub-section

Claims

1. Coupling system, in particular automatic coupling, between a semi-trailer tractor and a semi-trailer, comprising - a rail (2) and - a coupling component (1) which is pivotably mounted on a pin element (9) of the semi-trailer via a pin-side connection area (10) and can be mounted on the rail (9) so that it can be displaced along a translational direction (T) via a rail-side connection area (20), wherein the coupling component is connected to the semi-trailer via the connection areas, wherein the rail (2) and the coupling component (1) are mounted on an underside of the semi-trailer, characterized in that the rail (2) is designed as a web projecting from an underside of the semi-trailer and / or as a groove recessed into the underside of the semi-trailer.

2. Coupling system according to claim 1, wherein the rail (2) runs at least partially in a straight line and / or in a partial circle.

3. Coupling system according to claim 2, wherein the ratio between a straight portion (GA) of the rail (2) and a partially circular portion (TA) has a value between 0.1 and 0.6, preferably between 0.2 and 0.5, and particularly preferably between 0.35 and 0.48.

4. Coupling system according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling component (1) can be pivoted around the pin element (9) by at least a pivot angle of 145° when assembled.

5. Coupling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a coupling structure (19) and / or a slide element for connection to the rail (2) is arranged in the rail-side connection area (20).

6. Coupling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a ratio of a first side length, which the coupling component (1), the slide element or the rail (2) has in a retracted state, to a second side length, which the coupling component (1), the slide element or the rail (2) has in an extended state, has a value between 0.1 and 0.6, preferably between 0.2 and 0.55, and particularly preferably between 0.41 and 0.49.

7. Coupling system according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling component (1) is designed for automatic coupling of the semi-trailer tractor and the semi-trailer.

8. Coupling system according to claim 5, 6, or 7, wherein the coupling component (1), the slide element and / or the rail (2) are dimensionally variable, in particular extendable, in order to increase the potential swivel angle.

9. Coupling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the rail (2), the coupling component (1) and / or the slide element are designed to be multi-part.

10. Coupling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pin-side connection area (10) has a sleeve (2) for connecting to the pin element (9).

11. Coupling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a ratio between a sleeve width (MB) of the sleeve (12) in the pin-side connection area (10) and a pin length (9) has a value between 0.1 and 0.5, preferably between 0.25 and 0.48, and particularly preferably between 0.35 and 0.45.

12. Coupling system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a device for extending a line.

13. Method for mounting a coupling component (1), in particular for equipping a semi-trailer, wherein the coupling component (1) is connected to the semi-trailer via two different connection areas, wherein the coupling component (1) has a pin-side connection area (10) for pivotably mounting the coupling component (1) on the pin element (9) and a rail-side connection area (20) for slidable mounting of the coupling component (1) on a rail (2) in a translational direction, wherein the rail (2) and the coupling component (1) are mounted on an underside of the semi-trailer, wherein the coupling component (1) is connected to the pin element (9) and the rail (2), characterized in that the rail (2) is designed as a web projecting from an underside of the semi-trailer and / or as a groove recessed into the underside of the semi-trailer.