LEVELLING DEVICE AND LEVELLING METHOD

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a leveling device and a leveling method for road vehicles, in particular trailers, having the features in the preamble of the independent claims.

[0002] Such a leveling device and leveling method are known from DE 200 03 180 U1. The leveling device serves to align the vehicle chassis in a desired angular position in space, particularly horizontally. It has a leveling control, a leveling sensor that records the angular position of the vehicle chassis, and a lifting device that can be controlled by the leveling control or is controlled and driven in the installed state for vertical movement of the chassis during leveling. The lifting device is formed by four or more mechanical jacks that can be arranged on both sides and distributed longitudinally on a chassis of the road vehicle or are arranged in the installed position. The road vehicle is preferably designed as a trailer and has the said chassis as well as an axle arrangement with vehicle wheels on both sides and the leveling device in the installed state.The familiar lifting device with four or more jacks performs an upward lifting movement during leveling. This lifts the chassis from the suspension.

[0003] Leveling devices for road vehicles with four hydraulic jacks are also known from practice.

[0004] US 2019 / 0329622 A1 discloses a leveling device according to the preamble of claim 1 and a leveling method according to the preamble of claim 14. It deals with the tip-proof stabilization and support of a parked vehicle with raising and lowering wheels on the ground. Stabilization is achieved by four extendable jacks, with the wheels subsequently being lifted off the ground or the jacks and wheels jointly supporting the vehicle chassis without changing its position.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to demonstrate an improved leveling technique.

[0006] The invention solves this problem with the features in the independent claims.

[0007] The claimed leveling technology, ie the leveling device, the leveling method and a road vehicle equipped with the leveling device, have various advantages.

[0008] One aspect of the invention relates to the design of the leveling device and the leveling method. In the claimed leveling technology, the lifting device according to the invention comprises several wheel lifting means, each designed to individually raise and lower a vehicle wheel relative to the chassis. The lifting device can be limited to the axle area and the wheel lifting means. The wheel lifting means are individually controlled by the leveling control system.

[0009] Furthermore, the leveling device additionally has several chassis supports that can be controlled, locked, and raised and lowered by the leveling control system. According to the invention, leveling can be performed by the individually controllable wheel lifting devices and also by the chassis supports.

[0010] According to a further independent aspect of the invention, the leveling device can be controlled in such a way, or the leveling method can be carried out in such a way that the lifting device lowers the chassis during leveling. The aligned leveling position can be lower than the starting position. The chassis is preferably spaced from the ground in the aligned leveling position.

[0011] This is possible with the claimed lifting device with individual wheel lifting means and also with a conventional lifting device according to the state of the art mentioned at the beginning, which has only lifting supports on the chassis and no individual wheel lifting means used for leveling.

[0012] Lowering the chassis during leveling has the advantage that, in a road vehicle with a single body and a single door, the entry area is positioned at an ergonomically favorable low level in the aligned leveling position. This aligned leveling position is lower and more favorable than with the current technology.

[0013] Furthermore, with the claimed leveling technology, contact problems of the previously known lifting device with the ground can be avoided or at least significantly reduced. With the previously known leveling technology and when lifting the chassis, it is possible that, depending on the ground conditions, the maximum extension or lowering length of the jacks may be exceeded, so that in the leveling position, one or more jacks have no contact with the ground and thus cannot provide secure chassis and vehicle support in the aligned leveling position.

[0014] With the claimed leveling technology and the lowering of the chassis during the leveling process, this problem can be avoided with a high degree of reliability. The claimed leveling technology allows for secure ground support of the chassis and road vehicle at all support points.

[0015] According to the first aspect of the invention, the chassis can be reliably and stably supported at a plurality of points distributed on the chassis, e.g., six or more points, by the plurality of wheel lifting means and the plurality of locked chassis supports, both in the stationary and aligned leveling positions. In the aligned leveling position, the chassis can be arranged suspended at a favorable distance above the ground or floor. This distance can be lower than in the prior art. Resting the chassis on the ground is preferably avoided.

[0016] The usually central axle section can be supported in the aligned leveling position by the lifting device or wheel lifting devices. Each vehicle wheel in a single-axle or possibly multi-axle axle arrangement can be assigned its own wheel lifting device. The wheel lifting devices serve to adjust the height of the chassis during leveling and also to support it in the aforementioned leveling position. The periphery can be supported by chassis supports, preferably spaced from the axle section.

[0017] An arrangement of two, three, or more, e.g., four, chassis supports is advantageous. These can be distributed along both sides and longitudinally when installed, as well as positioned at a distance from the axle area on the chassis. They can be located in the body area and positioned at its corners, ensuring reliable and particularly stable support for the main static and, if applicable, dynamic load acting in the body area and when stationary.

[0018] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the wheel lifting devices are designed to be arranged between the vehicle wheel and the chassis and to act as a driving force between them. This applies both functionally and, if necessary, structurally. The force flow and the adjustment movement can run directly between the respective vehicle wheel and the chassis.

[0019] The claimed leveling device has the advantage that the lifting mechanism formed by the wheel lifting devices acts in the axle area. The loaded axle assembly and its wheels can not only effect the raising and lowering movement of the chassis, but can also participate in ground support of the chassis and vehicle in the ultimately aligned leveling position. The wheel lifting devices can also be locked in the aligned leveling position of the chassis if necessary, e.g., to relieve the load on the drive.

[0020] The individual and independently controllable wheel lifts allow the wheels on both sides of the chassis to be raised and lowered independently. The lowering movements during leveling and when assuming the preferred low leveling position are particularly advantageous. The wheel lifts can also raise the chassis and the vehicle back into a ready-to-drive position. The suspension of the axle assembly can be configured accordingly to accommodate these individual lifting and lowering movements of the vehicle wheel relative to the chassis.

[0021] For leveling, chassis adjustment and force application via the wheel lift mechanism at a central location in the axle area and close to the center of gravity of the road vehicle are particularly advantageous. Lightweight chassis are particularly rigid in this regard. The peripheral components, which are more sensitive in lightweight construction, are subjected to minimal stress and can be braced against the ground by passive chassis supports, for example, when assuming the leveling position.

[0022] The advantageous lowering of the chassis into the low-lying, aligned leveling position mentioned above can be achieved in a particularly advantageous manner with the aforementioned and preferred design of the leveling device.

[0023] The chassis can first be raised by the lifting device and then lowered back into the aligned leveling position. Leveling and alignment of the chassis in one or more, particularly two, main directions can be performed while raising the chassis and / or while lowering the chassis. The final aligned leveling position is also lower than in the prior art and offers the aforementioned advantages. A correspondingly flexible design of the axle assembly's suspension is beneficial for achieving the lowest possible leveling position.

[0024] The claimed leveling device and its components can be manufactured and sold independently. They can, for example, be assembled as a kit. The claimed leveling device can be installed by the manufacturer on a road vehicle, in particular a trailer, as original equipment. Alternatively, the leveling device can also be retrofitted or converted to an existing road vehicle, in particular a trailer. Installation can be carried out by a specialist workshop or, if necessary, by technically skilled laypersons.

[0025] In the claimed leveling device, the wheel lifting means can be designed and arranged in different ways and function differently. In an advantageous embodiment, the wheel lifting means can engage a wheel rocker arm of the axle assembly. They can advantageously be supported directly or indirectly on the chassis. The wheel lifting means can engage an outer rocker arm or an inner rocker arm of the wheel rocker arm. The wheel lifting means rotates the outer or inner rocker arm relative to the chassis, thereby raising or lowering the vehicle wheel relative to the chassis.

[0026] Furthermore, the wheel lift devices may have additional functions. For example, they may form part of the suspension of the axle assembly.

[0027] In another advantageous embodiment, the wheel lifting means can be provided and designed to engage an axle beam of the axle arrangement. For individual loading of the wheels arranged on both sides of the chassis, it is advantageous if the axle arrangement has half-axles or stub axles, each with a single vehicle wheel. The wheel lifting means can engage such an axle beam of a half-axle. In these cases, the wheel lifting means can rotate the axle beam about its axis and / or pivot it in an arc relative to the chassis. In both cases, the aforementioned relative lifting and lowering movements of the vehicle wheel being carried along are carried out relative to the chassis. The axle beam can be locked in the driving position. Locking is also possible in one or more intermediate positions.

[0028] The wheel lifting means can each have a controllable drive means. This can be connected to the leveling control system in a suitable manner. The controllable drive means can be designed in various ways. A cylinder, particularly a hydraulic cylinder, is advantageous. Alternatively, the drive means can be designed as an electromechanical spindle drive, an air spring element, or the like.

[0029] The multiple chassis supports can be controlled by the leveling system. They can be designed to be lockable and raise and lower.

[0030] There are various design options for this.

[0031] According to the invention, the chassis supports are designed as passive supports. These are controlled by the leveling control system during leveling in such a way that they are lowered to the ground before or during leveling and maintain ground contact. When the lifting device or wheel lifting means lower the chassis relative to the ground-supporting vehicle wheels during leveling, the chassis supports are switched to force-neutral mode.

[0032] Force-neutral means that they offer no significant resistance to the lowering or raising movement of the chassis. They are retracted or raised while maintaining contact with the ground. The chassis supports are locked in the aligned leveling position and, if necessary, in an intermediate position by the leveling control.

[0033] When locked in place, they then provide support for the chassis and vehicle body. Chassis supports can also be designed as active supports. They can be used to level the chassis and can raise and / or lower it in certain places. For example, during a leveling step, they can rotate the chassis around a pivoting axle beam or around the wheel contact points on the ground.

[0034] The chassis supports can each have a raisable and lowerable support means and a controllable drive means. A support means can be designed, for example, as a pivoting foot, which is raised and lowered by the drive means through a pivoting movement or an upright linear movement. The drive means can be designed as an electromotive drive device, as a cylinder, preferably a hydraulic cylinder, or in another way. In another embodiment, the drive means can also form the raisable and lowerable support means. In this case, the drive means can be designed, for example, as a linearly telescopic cylinder, an electromotive spindle drive, or the like. At the free end, the chassis support can have a preferably articulated support foot for ground contact.

[0035] In one embodiment of the leveling technology, the chassis supports can essentially be used only to support the chassis and the road vehicle in the aligned leveling position or, if necessary, in an intermediate position. In this embodiment, the chassis supports do not need to provide any lifting force for the chassis. The lowering of the chassis supports can be achieved by their own weight. In the preferred embodiment, the drive means is essentially used to raise or retract the chassis support and can be designed accordingly with low power.

[0036] However, a more powerful chassis support design is also possible, which can then also develop lifting forces and, if necessary, support the wheel lifting devices. The more powerful or active chassis supports can be involved in the leveling process, especially during a leveling step.

[0037] The chassis supports each have a controllable locking device. This can be designed and arranged in different ways. For example, it can be arranged on the support device and / or on the controllable drive device. In a hydraulic chassis support, a locking device can be designed, for example, as a check valve or similar in the hydraulic circuit. In a screw drive, a self-locking mechanism can form the locking device.

[0038] Advantageously, the multiple wheel lifting devices and the multiple chassis supports can have a common operating fluid supply. This can be, for example, a common hydraulic supply, in particular a common hydraulic unit, e.g., with a pump, hydraulic reservoir, lines, and valve control. Alternatively, the wheel lifting devices and / or the chassis supports can have their own separate operating fluid supplies. If the drive means of the wheel lifting devices and chassis supports are electromechanically designed, the leveling device can have a common electrical power output stage. Alternatively, a decentralized arrangement is possible in each case.

[0039] The leveling device can comprise a mobile support element that is provided and designed for support from below on the chassis, in particular at the front end of the chassis, during leveling. Such a mobile and preferably front-side support element is advantageous for leveling in a first main direction, in particular in the longitudinal direction of the chassis. The chassis can be supported at the front and preferably in the drawbar area during the lowering movement of the wheel lifting means. The mobile support element can be removed after leveling has been completed and for driving operation. It can be designed, for example, as a support stand. Alternatively, an existing and height-adjustable support wheel of the road vehicle can be used as the mobile support element.

[0040] In another version of the leveling system, the mobile support element may have a more limited range of functions and can primarily be used to adjust the chassis to a longitudinally downward or upward tilt. A support function during leveling in the longitudinal direction of the chassis is not required.

[0041] The leveling device can be controlled accordingly depending on the design and the desired leveling method. According to the invention, alignment occurs in several, e.g., two, main directions during leveling.

[0042] This can be the longitudinal and transverse direction of the chassis or road vehicle. Leveling can be performed to a desired spatial angular position of the chassis. The specified solid angle refers to the horizontal in space. The desired angular position usually involves an exactly horizontal alignment of the main plane of the chassis and a solid angle of 0°. Alternatively, other angles are possible, such as a deliberate slight inclination in one or more main directions and a solid angle deviating from 0°.

[0043] According to one aspect of the invention, the chassis is lowered during the leveling process by means of the lifting device. This can be done in the manner described above by lowering it from a starting position. In this case, the chassis can only perform lowering movements.

[0044] Alternatively, during leveling, the chassis can first be raised using the lifting device, aligned along one or more main axes, and then lowered again during or after leveling. This is also possible with the conventional leveling device mentioned above.

[0045] Leveling and aligning the chassis in the desired spatial angular position can be achieved by raising and / or lowering the individually operable wheel lifting devices and / or by raising and / or lowering the individually operable chassis supports. Leveling takes place in several steps, e.g., two.

[0046] The individually operable wheel lifting devices are involved in at least one leveling step.

[0047] According to the invention, the leveling device is controlled during leveling in such a way that the chassis is lowered by means of the lifting device and the leveling sensor system, starting from a starting position that is preferably supported at the front, to an intermediate position and is thereby aligned with a desired solid angle in a first main direction, in particular in the longitudinal direction of the chassis, wherein the chassis is subsequently moved to a leveling position and is thereby also aligned with a desired solid angle in a second main direction, in particular in the transverse direction.

[0048] There are various options for the control implementation. In a first embodiment, the lifting device lowers the chassis from the aforementioned starting position with the chassis supports lowered to the ground and switched to a force-neutral position until it reaches the intermediate position and aligns the chassis with a desired solid angle in the first main direction, in particular in the longitudinal direction. Subsequently, by actuating the wheel lifting device(s) on one side of the chassis and locking the chassis support(s) on the other side of the chassis, the chassis can be moved to the leveling position, in which the chassis is also aligned with a desired solid angle in a second main direction, in particular in the transverse direction. Both leveling steps are carried out by the wheel lifting device.

[0049] In one embodiment, the leveling device can be controlled during leveling such that, when the chassis moves from the intermediate position to the leveling position, the wheel lifting device(s) on the higher chassis side are actuated and the chassis support(s) on the lower chassis side are locked, lowering the chassis on one side. This is advantageous for achieving a low leveling position. Otherwise, the kinematics can also be reversed, and the lower chassis side is raised.

[0050] In another control technology embodiment, the lifting device lowers the chassis from the said starting position with the chassis supports retracted into the intermediate position and aligns the chassis with a desired solid angle in the first main direction, e.g. in the transverse direction of the chassis, whereby the chassis supports are then extended until they come into contact with the ground and then move the chassis into a leveling position in which the chassis is also aligned at the desired solid angle in a second main direction, e.g. in the longitudinal direction. This is done by actuating the chassis support(s). The leveling steps are carried out on the one hand by the wheel lifting means and on the other hand by the lifting supports. This leveling technology is particularly suitable for a lifting device in which the wheel lifting means are attached to a pivoting axle body.

[0051] The subclaims specify further advantageous embodiments of the leveling device, the leveling method and the road vehicle.

[0052] The claimed leveling technology may have further advantageous features listed below, which may be used individually or in combination.

[0053] The wheel lifting means of the lifting device can each be configured to engage a wheel rocker arm of the axle assembly. In particular, the wheel lifting means can each be configured to engage an outer rocker arm of the wheel rocker arm, aligned along the longitudinal axis. Alternatively, the wheel lifting means can each be configured to engage an inner rocker arm of the wheel rocker arm, aligned transversely to the longitudinal axis.

[0054] The chassis supports can each be designed and constructed for attachment to the chassis in a body area of ​​the road vehicle.

[0055] The chassis supports can each have a raisable and lowerable support means and a controllable drive means. The drive means can be a hydraulic cylinder. The chassis supports can each have a raisable and lowerable support means and a controllable drive means, in particular, preferably a hydraulic cylinder.

[0056] The chassis supports can each have a support foot that can be raised and lowered.

[0057] The leveling device may comprise two, three, four or more chassis supports.

[0058] The wheel lifting means and the chassis supports may have a common operating medium supply, in particular a common hydraulic supply.

[0059] In the road vehicle in question, the wheel lifting devices can be arranged between the vehicle wheel and the chassis and act as a driving force between them. The chassis supports can be arranged on both sides of the chassis and distributed longitudinally, preferably in a body area.

[0060] The axle arrangement of the road vehicle can comprise one or more axles. These can preferably be checker axles with individual wheel swing arms on one or both sides.

[0061] The axle arrangement may include suspension. This may be axle-integrated suspension and / or air suspension.

[0062] The vehicle wheels may have independent suspension.

[0063] The road vehicle may be designed as a trailer with a chassis with longitudinal members and a rigid front drawbar, in particular a V-drawbar.

[0064] A raising and lowering support wheel can be installed on the front of the chassis, particularly in the drawbar area. The support wheel can provide support during leveling.

[0065] In the claimed leveling method, according to the invention, the chassis is lowered by means of the lifting device and the leveling sensor system from a starting position, preferably supported at the front, to an intermediate position and aligned with a desired solid angle in a first main direction. The chassis is then moved to the leveling position and aligned with a desired solid angle in a second main direction. The first main direction can be the longitudinal direction of the chassis, and the second main direction can be the transverse direction. The direction assignment can also be reversed.

[0066] When moving the chassis from the intermediate position to the leveling position, the lifting device can only be operated on one side of the chassis and the chassis support(s) on the other side of the chassis can be locked, whereby the chassis is moved on one side.

[0067] When moving the chassis from the intermediate position to the leveling position, the lifting device can, for example, only be operated on the higher chassis side and the chassis support(s) on the lower chassis side can be locked, whereby the chassis is lowered on one side.

[0068] In the claimed leveling method, the lifting device can have several wheel lifting devices, each of which individually raises and lowers a vehicle wheel relative to the chassis on both sides of the chassis. The wheel lifting devices can preferably be arranged between the vehicle wheel and the chassis and act as a driving force between them.

[0069] In the claimed leveling method, when the chassis is lowered by means of the lifting device, at least one chassis support can be lowered to ground contact and switched to force-neutral.

[0070] In the claimed leveling method, the chassis can be placed in the aligned leveling position at a distance above the ground.

[0071] The invention is illustrated schematically and by way of example in the drawings. In detail: Figure 1: a trailer with a chassis and a body as well as a leveling device in a schematic side view, Figure 2: a plan view of the arrangement of Figure 1 , Figure 3: a hydraulic chassis support in perspective view Figure 4: a principle diagram of the leveling device on a schematic chassis in side view, Figure 5: a front view of the arrangement according to arrow V of Figure 4, Figure 6: a hydraulic wheel lifting device on a wheel guide in side view, Figures 7 and 8: the arrangement of Figure 6 with a vehicle wheel in different lifting positions, Figures 9 and 10: a vehicle chassis during leveling with a starting position, an aligned leveling position and an intermediate position in side view and front view and Figures 11 and 12: variants of the leveling device with an air suspension and with an axle arrangement with half axles.

[0072] The invention relates to a leveling device (2) and a leveling method for a road vehicle (1), in particular a trailer, as well as to such a road vehicle (1) equipped with a leveling device (2).

[0073] In the illustrated embodiments, the road vehicle (1) is designed as a trailer. Alternatively, another configuration is possible, e.g., as a motor vehicle, in particular as a mobile home, light truck, or the like.

[0074] The road vehicle (1) comprises a chassis (3) with a sprung axle arrangement (4) and with vehicle wheels (6, 7) on both sides. The road vehicle (1) or the chassis (3) has a longitudinal axis (40).

[0075] The chassis (3) can, for example, have two or more parallel longitudinal members (14) which are designed as folded metal profiles, e.g. as thin-walled Z- or L-profiles, as sandwich panels or in another suitable manner. The axle arrangement (4) can be arranged on the longitudinal members (14) by means of an axle holder (15), e.g. an axle bracket. In the case of a trailer (1), the chassis (3) can have a rigid drawbar (16) with a trailer coupling (17) on the front area located at the front in the direction of travel. The drawbar (16) is designed, for example, as a V-drawbar. Alternatively, another design, e.g. as a tubular drawbar, is possible. The direction of travel is in Figure 1 and 2 marked by an arrow.

[0076] The axle assembly (4) comprises one or more axles (18) and a suspension (5). In the exemplary embodiments, a single-axle trailer (1) is shown. Alternatively, trailers (1) with tandem axles or triple axles are possible. The one or more axles (18) are preferably designed as check-railer axles. They comprise an axle body (19) with a pivotably mounted wheel rocker arm (20) at one or both ends of the axle body (19).

[0077] In the embodiments of Figures 1 to 11 A single axle body (19) extends across the entire width of the vehicle and has a vehicle wheel (6, 7) on each side of the chassis and a wheel rocker arm (20) pivotably mounted in or on the axle body (19). The vehicle wheels (6, 7) have independent wheel suspension.

[0078] In another and in Figure 12In the embodiment shown, the axle (18) can be designed as a half-axle (43, 44) or a stub axle, the axle body (19) of which extends only over a portion of the chassis width. The half-axle (43, 44) has a pivotably mounted wheel rocker arm (20) with a vehicle wheel (6, 7) attached to it at only one end face. In this variant, the vehicle wheels (6, 7) also have independent wheel suspension.

[0079] The wheel rocker arm (20) has, in the variants shown, an outer rocker arm (20') and an inner rocker arm (20"). The outer rocker arm (20') extends mainly along the longitudinal axis (40). It can be slightly inclined outwards. The inner rocker arm (20") is mainly aligned transversely to the longitudinal axis (40). Figure 11In the trailing arm axle with straight axle body (19) shown, the inner rocker arm (20") is aligned at right angles to the longitudinal axis (40). In a semi-trailing arm axle according to Figure 2 with an arrow-shaped angled axle body (19), the inner rocker arm (20") is aligned obliquely to the longitudinal axis (40). In another embodiment not shown, the wheel rocker arm (20) can have only one outer rocker arm (20').

[0080] The outer rocker arm (20') is located outside between the chassis (3) and the vehicle wheel (6,7). It is located outside the axle body (19). The outer rocker arm (20') carries the vehicle wheel (6,7). It can be provided with a Figure 6 shown wheel holder (21) for the attachment of a vehicle wheel (6,7) or its hub.

[0081] The outer rocker arm (20') can be mounted on the axle body (19). This can be achieved, for example, by a pivot bearing at the end of the axle body (19). In the variants shown, the mounting on the axle body (19) is provided by the inner rocker arm (20"), which is arranged in a hollow axle body (19) and is rotationally fixedly connected to the outer rocker arm (20').

[0082] Alternatively, other axle designs with independent wheel suspension are possible. It is advantageous for the invention if the vehicle wheels (6, 7) arranged on both chassis sides, i.e., the longitudinal sides, can be adjusted independently of one another in their relative height relative to the chassis (3). The axle design and wheel suspension can be adapted accordingly.

[0083] The axle arrangement (4), in particular the respective axle (18), has a suspension (5). This can be a Figure 2indicated axle suspension, which is designed, for example, as a torsion bar suspension or rubber suspension and is integrated into the preferably hollow axle body (19). The wheel rocker arm (20) can be rotatably mounted in the hollow axle body (19) with the inner rocker arm (20") and connected to one or more torsion bars or torsion bars or to one or more rubber cords. In a torsion bar suspension, the inner rocker arm (20") can be omitted if necessary, wherein the outer rocker arm (20') is optionally mounted on the outside of the axle body (19) with a pivot bearing and is equipped with a holder for the one or more torsion bars or torsion bars.

[0084] In another and in Figure 11In the illustrated embodiment, the suspension (5) may alternatively or additionally comprise an air suspension. For example, an air spring element (41) indicated by dashed lines may be arranged at the free end of the wheel rocker arm (20) and supported against the chassis (3). An air suspension may be provided according to another embodiment and in Figure 11 also shown embodiment can also be arranged on the axle body (19) and connected to a hatched inner swing arm (20") of a wheel swing arm (20).

[0085] The leveling device (2) is arranged in a suitable manner on the road vehicle (1), preferably on the chassis (3). Figure 2 shows the components of the levelling device (2) and their exemplary arrangement in a top view.

[0086] In Figures 1 to 10 and in the Figures 11 and 12 different variants of the leveling device (2) are shown.

[0087] The leveling device (2) in its various variants comprises a lifting device (10) for vertically moving the chassis (3) during leveling. It further comprises a leveling control (8), a leveling sensor (9), and several chassis supports (12). The lifting device (10) comprises several wheel lifting devices (11), each of which is assigned to a vehicle wheel (6, 7) and can individually raise and lower the wheel relative to the chassis (3).

[0088] The wheel lifting means (11) are in Figures 1 to 11 are arranged between the vehicle wheel (6,7) and the chassis (3) and act as a drive between them. In the embodiments of Figures 1 to 10 and 11 With the check rail axle, the wheel lifting means (11) engage the outer rocker arm (20') of the wheel rocker arm (20) and rotate it relative to the axle body (19) and the chassis (3). Figures 5 and 6The illustrated rotational movement of the wheel rocker arm (20) or outer rocker arm (20') causes the aforementioned relative movement. The vehicle wheel (6, 7) is individually raised relative to the chassis (3), or the chassis (3) is lowered relative to the vehicle wheel (6, 7) resting on the ground (33).

[0089] The wheel lifting means (11) each have a controllable drive means (22). In the embodiments shown, this is Figures 1 to 10 designed as a hydraulic cylinder (23). Figures 4 to 6 illustrate this design and arrangement. The cylinder (23) is mounted at one end by means of a fitting on the chassis (3) or on the axle mount (15) and is pivotally connected to the wheel rocker arm (20) at the other end. A retracting and extending movement of the cylinder (23) rotates the wheel rocker arm (20) in the manner described above.

[0090] Figure 11shows a variant in which an air spring element (41) can be present alternatively or optionally in addition to the cylinder (23). The air spring element (41) can form a wheel lifting means (11). The drive means (23) can be formed, for example, by a controllable air spring bellows and a compressed air source (not shown).

[0091] The air spring element (41) indicated by dashed lines can, for example, engage the free end of the wheel rocker arm (20) or the outer rocker arm (20') and be supported directly or indirectly on the chassis (3). The air spring element (41) can be arranged on the outside of the chassis (3) between the longitudinal member (14) and the vehicle wheel (6, 7).

[0092] In another version, which is Figure 11also shown with solid lines, the double arranged air spring element (41) can be arranged between the longitudinal members (14) within the chassis (3) and can be connected to an inner rocker arm (20") of the wheel rocker arm (20) via a fitting (42). The support relative to the chassis (3) can be provided indirectly via the structure (37). The air spring elements (41) can individually rotate the respectively assigned inner rocker arm (20") and thereby the wheel rocker arm (20) and can raise and lower the vehicle wheel (6, 7) relative to the chassis (3).

[0093] In a further modification, instead of the air spring elements (41) arranged between the longitudinal members (14) within the chassis (3), other wheel lifting means (11) can be used, which act on the inner rocker arm (20") and rotate it. Such wheel lifting means (11) can be designed, for example, as cylinders, spindle drives or the like.

[0094] In the single-axle or multi-axle axle arrangement (4), individual wheel lifting devices (11) are preferably arranged on each vehicle wheel (6, 7) and on both chassis sides or longitudinal sides. The wheel lifting devices (11) are connected to the leveling control (8) and are individually controlled by it via a control line. In particular, the wheel lifting devices (11) arranged on different chassis sides can be controlled and actuated independently of one another.

[0095] The leveling control (8) is connected to the leveling sensor system (9), which can also be integrated into the control system and on its control board. The leveling sensor system (9) records the position and orientation or the spatial angular position of the chassis (3) using suitable sensors. These can be, for example, inclination sensors, odometers, distance sensors, acceleration sensors or the like. In this case, inclination sensors can, for example, be arranged crosswise and aligned in a longitudinal direction or longitudinal axis (40) and in a transverse direction of the chassis (3) perpendicular to this. The leveling control (8) is programmable. It has one or more processors along with I / O interfaces and data memories.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiments (4), the leveling device (2) has chassis supports (12) which, in the installed position, are arranged on the chassis (3) at the corners of the body area (36). This is the chassis area below the body (37). The chassis supports (12) can be arranged on the chassis (3), in particular on its longitudinal members (14) and / or on the underside of the body (37).

[0097] The chassis supports (12) are connected to the leveling control (8) and are controlled by it. The chassis supports (12) can be raised and lowered, or retracted and extended, and can be locked in a desired lifting or travel position by a locking device (28). The locking device (28) can be controllable and can also be controlled by the leveling control (8).

[0098] The chassis supports (12) each have a raising and lowering support means (25) and a controllable drive means (26), as well as a controllable locking means (28) if required. There are various options for the structural design of the chassis supports.

[0099] Figure 2shows a design as mechanical chassis supports, in which the support means (25) is formed by a pivoting arm that rotates about a horizontal axis fixed to the chassis, wherein it has an articulated support foot (24) at the free end. The drive means (26) can be designed in different ways. It can be formed, for example, by a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder (27). Alternatively, an electromechanical drive, e.g. a spindle drive or another drive technology is possible. In the case of a cylinder, the locking element (28) can be integrated into the fluid circuit and switched by the leveling control (8). In another design with a screw thread, a self-locking of the thread can form the locking element (28). The locking element (28) prevents the chassis support (12) from undesirably retracting or raising in its extended or lowered position due to external loads.The chassis support (12) can be lowered or extended by its own weight. A desired retraction movement can be effected by the drive means (26).

[0100] Figure 3 shows a variant of the chassis support (12), which here is designed as a telescopic hydraulic cylinder (27). The telescopic cylinder housing forms the support means (25). The locking element (28) is integrated into the hydraulic circuit, for example, as a switchable valve.

[0101] How Figure 2 As illustrated, the wheel lifting devices and the chassis supports (2) can have a common operating fluid supply (13). This can be, for example, a hydraulic unit with a pump, hydraulic tank, valve assembly, and lines. Alternatively, a decentralized operating fluid supply is possible. Figure 3shows such a design with a dedicated hydraulic unit (13) for the chassis support (12). The operating fluid supply for the wheel lifting means (11) and their drive means (22) can also be designed in a corresponding manner.

[0102] The chassis supports (12) are designed as passive supports. During leveling, they are controlled by the leveling control (8) such that they are lowered or extended to the ground (33) before or during the leveling process, making supporting contact with the ground. Lowering or extending can be achieved by their own weight or via the drive means (26). In the lowered position and when in contact with the ground, as well as when the lifting device (10) is actuated for leveling, the chassis supports (12) are switched to a force-neutral position. They can therefore follow the change in height of the chassis (3). During the leveling lowering process explained below, the chassis supports (12) can be raised or retracted while maintaining contact with the ground. Once the desired aligned leveling position (32) is reached, the chassis supports (12) can be locked using the locking element (28).

[0103] The leveling device (2) can be a Figure 2The mobile support element (29) shown in FIG. This is arranged at the front of the chassis (3), in particular at the front end of the drawbar (16), and supports the chassis (3) or the drawbar (16) from below. This support is present during leveling and can be removed again. The mobile support element (29) can also be formed by a height-adjustable support wheel already present on the chassis (3).

[0104] Figure 4 and 5 show the leveling device (2) with the wheel lifting means (11) and the chassis supports (12) in an abstract representation and with different floor shapes.

[0105] Figures 9 and 10illustrate a preferred embodiment of the leveling method. Here, the leveling device (2) is controlled such that the lifting device (10) or the arrangement of the wheel lifting means (11) lowers the chassis (3) during leveling. The leveling position (32) aligned during leveling is lower than the starting position (30).

[0106] Figure 9shows an abstract side view of the trailer (1) parked in a secure parking position with the front support element (29). The support element (29) is fixed or adjustable in height such that in the starting position (30) shown in dashed lines, the chassis (3) is inclined downwards towards the ground (33) in the direction of travel (40) or in the same direction first main direction (34). In the axle area, the distance between the chassis and the ground (33) is greater than at the support element (29). Leveling takes place from this preferred inclined position, which is designed in two stages and is carried out by lowering movements of the chassis (3) relative to the vehicle wheels (6, 7) and the ground (33) or by raising the vehicle wheels (6, 7) relative to the chassis (3).

[0107] In the first stage, the chassis (3) is aligned with a desired solid angle in the first main direction (34), i.e. here the longitudinal direction (40) of the chassis (3) or the direction of travel. By synchronous actuation of the wheel lifting means (11) on both sides, the chassis (3) is lowered and supported at the front via the support element (29). When the desired solid angle is 0° against the horizontal spatial direction, the chassis (3) then assumes a Figure 9 Insert the intermediate layer (31) shown with solid lines. The chassis upper edge is aligned horizontally.

[0108] In the intermediate position (31), the chassis (3) may have an undesirable angular orientation, in particular an inclined position, in the other main direction (35), ie here the transverse direction. Figure 10 This is illustrated in the front view Figure 9 The intermediate layer (31) is shown here in dashed lines. The right side of the chassis is e.g. higher than the left one.

[0109] For the subsequent second leveling step, the one or more wheel lifting devices (11) on the one chassis side to be adjusted are actuated. The chassis supports (12) on the other and opposite chassis side can be locked in place. In the embodiment shown, the higher chassis side is lowered.

[0110] According to Figure 10 the right wheel lifting device(s) (11) on the vehicle wheel (6) are actuated and the Figure 9 not shown chassis supports (12) on the other side of the chassis at the vehicle wheel (7). Figure 5These left chassis supports (12) are shown. In this second leveling step, the chassis (3) is aligned with a desired solid angle in the second main direction (35). With a typically desired horizontal alignment of the chassis (3) and the superstructure (37), the said solid angle is also 0° in the second main direction (35). In each of the leveling steps mentioned, an alignment is performed in space and relative to the floor (33).

[0111] In the Figure 10 The other chassis supports (12), for example, are also locked in the final leveling positions (32) shown by solid lines.

[0112] If necessary, the wheel lifting means (11) can also be locked in the leveling position (32).

[0113] In the aligned leveling position (32), the chassis (3) hovers at a distance above the ground (33). The leveling device (2) can be controlled accordingly.

[0114] Figures 9 and 10 show the leveling process on a flat and horizontal floor (33). Figure 5 Leveling on an uneven floor (33) is shown. Figure 4 and 5 also illustrate the arrangement and, if applicable, movement of the chassis supports (12).

[0115] In a modification of the above-described embodiment, the Figure 10 shown and inclined in the transverse direction (35), instead of lowering the higher chassis area, the lower chassis area can be raised. In this case, with regard to Figure 10 the wheel lifting means (11) on the left side of the chassis is actuated at the vehicle wheel(s) (7) and the chassis supports (12) on the right side of the chassis are locked at the vehicle wheel(s) (6).

[0116] In a further variation, it is possible to reverse the order of the leveling steps and first carry out the leveling in the second main axis (35) and then the leveling and alignment in the first main axis (34).

[0117] In this modification, the parked road vehicle (1) is secured. When configured as a vehicle trailer, the front support element (29), in particular the support wheel, is lowered, with the chassis (3) assuming a sloping forward incline and the front area forming the lowest chassis position.

[0118] The leveling process is then started from this front-supported starting position (30). The wheel lifting devices (11) raise the vehicle wheels (6, 7) relative to the chassis (3) until they assume a maximally raised position, for example, as a lowered intermediate position (31). The chassis supports (12) can be retracted, for example. The chassis (3) and the axle body (19) can be lowered to a lowest position. This lowest position is located at a distance above the ground (33). During this lowering, the forward sloping inclination of the chassis (3) is maintained.

[0119] The chassis (2) is then leveled in its transverse direction, which forms the first main direction (34). For example, the wheel lifting device(s) (11) on the lower longitudinal side of the chassis (3) are activated. The relevant chassis side is raised under the control of the leveling sensors (9) until the desired angular position is assumed in the transverse direction. Preferably, the chassis (3) is aligned horizontally in the transverse direction. The assumed chassis position and the wheel lifting device (11) are locked.

[0120] Leveling then takes place in the second main direction (35), this time along the longitudinal axis or longitudinal direction (4) of the chassis (3). To do this, the chassis supports (12) in the rear area are first extended until ground contact is detected. These chassis supports (12) are then extended a further specified distance, e.g., 20 mm.

[0121] The front chassis supports (12) are then extended until ground contact is detected and then extended an additional predetermined distance. This can be the same distance as the rear chassis supports (12).

[0122] The chassis (3) is then leveled in the second main direction (35) using the chassis supports (12). The front and / or rear chassis supports (12) can be extended and / or retracted. Leveling in the longitudinal direction (40) occurs around the axle body (19) as a pivot point. The wheels (6, 7) remain in contact with the ground, with the load of the road vehicle (1) being borne by the axle assembly (4). Leveling in the longitudinal direction (34) occurs under the control of the leveling sensors (9) until the chassis (3) assumes the desired angular position in the longitudinal direction (40), in particular a horizontal orientation. The chassis supports (12) can be mechanically locked in the desired leveling position or end position. Such a mechanical locking mechanism is also possible for the wheel lifting devices (11). It can be activated after the first leveling step and the transverse leveling.

[0123] Figure 12shows a previously mentioned variant of the axle arrangement (4) and the lifting device (10). The axle (18) is formed by two half-axles (43, 44). These can be aligned with each other and arranged at right angles to the longitudinal axis (40). Alternatively, an inclined alignment, as with a semi-trailing arm axle, is possible. The half-axles (43, 44) can each have a suspension (5) of the type described above, e.g., an axle suspension with rubber cords or torsion bars.

[0124] The half-axles (43, 44) each have an axle body (19) that is mounted on the chassis (3) for rotation about a central axis (48). Alternatively, a pivoting movement in an arc about a decentralized axis is possible. Upon rotation or pivoting of the axle body (19), the respective associated vehicle wheel (6, 7) can be raised or lowered relative to the chassis (3) for the aforementioned leveling.

[0125] For the pivot bearing of an axle body (19) about the central axis (48), for example, an outer pivot bearing (45) is arranged on an axle holder (15) on a longitudinal member (14) and an inner pivot bearing (46) is arranged between the longitudinal members (14). The half-axles (43, 44) can have a common inner pivot bearing (46). This can connect the axle bodies (19) of the half-axles (43, 44) and support each other. However, it can also have an external central support, e.g. on the chassis (3) by means of a cross member or on the floor of the body (37). Alternatively, the axle bodies (19) of the half-axles (43, 44) can each have their own inner pivot bearing (46) with external support on the said body floor or on the chassis (3). The axle bodies (19) of the half-axles (43, 44) can have a rotation lock. They can be locked in a defined rotational position for the movement of the road vehicle (1) as required and released for leveling.

[0126] The half-axles (43, 44) each have their own individually controllable and, if necessary, lockable wheel lifting means (11), which rotates the axle body (19) about the axis (48). The wheel lifting means (11) has, for example, a drive means (22) in the form of a hydraulic cylinder (47). The cylinder (47) can be supported at one end on the chassis (3) via, for example, a strut-like support means (49). It can engage at the other end on the axle body (19) off-center with a fitting (not shown). The wheel lifting means (11) are arranged in the interior of the chassis (3) between the longitudinal members (14). The wheel lifting means (11) can otherwise be designed, supplied and controlled in the manner described above.

[0127] Figure 12also shows, for example, a vehicle variant with a short chassis (3), wherein the leveling device (2) has only two rear chassis supports (12). Alternatively, more than two chassis supports (12) can be present. The half-axle arrangement can also be used with longer chassis (3). Furthermore, with half-axles (43, 44), a multiple-axle configuration, e.g., as a tandem or triple axle or the like, is possible.

[0128] Modifications to the above-described embodiments and their variants are possible in various ways. In particular, the features of the embodiments and variants can be combined with one another as desired within the scope of the claims and, if necessary, even interchanged. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0129] 1Road vehicle, trailer 2Leveling device 3Chassis 4Axle arrangement 5Suspension 6Left vehicle wheel 7Right vehicle wheel 8Leveling control 9Leveling sensor 10Lifting device 11Wheel lifting device 12Chassis support 13Operating fluid supply, hydraulic unit 14Longitudinal member 15Axle support 16Drawbar 17Trailer coupling 18Axle 19Axle body 20Wheel rocker arm 20'Outer rocker arm 20"Inner rocker arm 21Wheel support 22Drive means 23Hydraulic cylinder 24Support leg 25Support means 26Drive means 27Hydraulic cylinder 28Locking means 29Support element, support wheel 30Starting position 31Intermediate layer 32Leveling position 33Ground 34Main direction, longitudinal direction 35Main direction, transverse direction 36Body area 37Body 38Access, door 39Entry area 40Direction of travel 41Air spring element 42Fitting 43Half-axle 44Half-axle 45Outer axle bearing 46Inner axle bearing 47Cylinder 48Central axle 49Supporting elements

Claims

1. Levelling device for road vehicles (1), in particular trailers, wherein the road vehicle (1) has a chassis (3), a longitudinal axis (40) and a suspended axle assembly (4) with vehicle wheels (6, 7) on both sides with an independent wheel suspension, wherein the levelling device (2) is provided and designed for orienting the chassis (3) in a desired angular position in space and wherein the levelling device (2) has a levelling controller (8), a levelling sensor system (9) which accommodates the angular position of the chassis (3) and is connected to the levelling controller (8), and a driven lifting apparatus (10), which can be controlled by the levelling controller (8), for vertical movement of the chassis (3) during levelling, wherein the lifting apparatus (10) has a plurality of wheel lifting means (11) which can be individually controlled by the levelling controller (8) and are each designed to lift and lower a vehicle wheel (6, 7) individually relative to the chassis (3), wherein the levelling device (2) has a plurality of chassis supports (12) which can be controlled by the levelling controller (8), locked and also lifted and lowered, wherein the levelling controller (8) is programmable and has one or more processors along with I / O interfaces and data memories, wherein the levelling of the individually controllable wheel lifting means (11) and also of the chassis supports (12) can be carried out, characterized in that the levelling device (2) and the levelling controller (8) are configured for the chassis (3) to be controlled by the levelling controller (8) during levelling in such a way that the chassis (3) is lowered by means of the lifting apparatus (10) and the levelling sensor system (9) starting from a preferably front-supported starting position (30) to an intermediate position (31) and is thereby oriented with a desired solid angle in a first main direction (34), wherein the chassis (3) is then moved to a levelling position (32) and is thereby oriented with a desired solid angle in a second main direction (35) too and wherein the chassis supports (12) are designed as passive supports, which are controlled during levelling in such a way that they are lowered to the ground (33) before or during levelling and, when the lifting apparatus (10) is lowered for levelling purposes, are in a force-neutral state and are raised or retracted while maintaining contact with the ground and also are locked in the oriented levelling position (32).

2. Levelling device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the levelling device (2) is controlled in such a way that the lifting apparatus (10) lowers the chassis (3) during levelling and the oriented levelling position (32) is lower than the starting position (30), in particular is arranged with a distance above the ground (33).

3. Levelling device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the wheel lifting means (11) are each designed to be arranged between the vehicle wheel (6, 7) and the chassis (3) and to act with a driving effect between them.

4. Levelling device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wheel lifting means (11) are each designed to engage on an oscillating wheel arm (20) of the axle assembly (4) or on an axle body (19) of a half-axle of the axle assembly (4).

5. Levelling device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wheel lifting means (11) each have a controllable drive means (22), in particular a preferably hydraulic cylinder (23, 47) or an air spring element (41).

6. Levelling device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chassis supports (12) each have a supporting means (25) which can be lifted and lowered and a drive means (26) which can be controlled, in particular a preferably hydraulic cylinder (27), and also preferably a controllable locking means (28).

7. Levelling device according to Claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the wheel lifting means (11) and the chassis supports (12) have a common operating medium supply (13), in particular a common hydraulic supply.

8. Levelling device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the levelling device (2) comprises a mobile supporting element (29), which is provided and designed to be arranged on the chassis (3), in particular at the front chassis end, with support from below during levelling.

9. Levelling device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the levelling device (2) and the levelling controller (8) are configured for the chassis (3) to be controlled by the levelling controller (8) during levelling in such a way that, with the chassis supports (12) lowered into contact with the ground and in a force-neutral state, the lifting apparatus (10) lowers the chassis (3) starting from the front-supported starting position (30) of the chassis (3) to the intermediate position (31), in which the chassis (3) is oriented with a desired solid angle in the first main direction (34) in the longitudinal direction of the chassis (3), and in that, by actuating the wheel lifting means (11) on a chassis side and locking the chassis support(s) (12) on the other chassis side, the chassis (3) is then moved to the levelling position (32), in which the chassis (3) is oriented with a desired solid angle in the second main direction (35) in the transverse direction of the chassis (3) too.

10. Levelling device according to any of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the levelling device (2) and the levelling controller (8) are configured for the chassis (3) to be controlled by the levelling controller (8) during levelling in such a way that the lifting apparatus (10) lowers the chassis (3) starting from the front-supported starting position (30) of the chassis (3) to the intermediate position (31) and orients the chassis (3) with a desired solid angle in the first main direction (34) in the transverse direction of the chassis (3), wherein the chassis supports (12) are then extended into contact with the underlying surface (33) and then move the chassis (3) to the levelling position (32), in which the chassis (3) is oriented with a desired solid angle in the second main direction (35) in the longitudinal direction (40) of the chassis (3) too by actuating the chassis support or chassis supports (12).

11. Road vehicle, in particular trailer, comprising a chassis (3), a longitudinal axis (40) and a suspended axle assembly (4) with vehicle wheels (6, 7) on both sides with an independent wheel suspension, and also comprising a levelling device (2), characterized in that the levelling device (2) is designed according to any of Claims 1 to 10.

12. Road vehicle according to Claim 11, characterized in that the wheel lifting means (11) are each arranged between the vehicle wheel (6, 7) and the chassis (3) and act with a driving effect between them, wherein the chassis supports (12) are preferably arranged on both sides of the chassis (3) and distributed in the longitudinal direction, preferably on a body region (36).

13. Road vehicle according to Claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the axle assembly (4) of the road vehicle (1) has one or more wheel-link axles (18) with individual oscillating wheel arms (20) on one or both sides.

14. Method for levelling a road vehicle (1), in particular a trailer, comprising a chassis (3), a longitudinal axis (40) and a suspended axle assembly (4) with vehicle wheels (6, 7) on both sides with an independent suspension, wherein the chassis (3) is oriented in a desired angular position in space during levelling and wherein the levelling is performed by means of a levelling device (2) having a levelling controller (8), a levelling sensor system (9) which accommodates the angular position of the chassis (3) and is connected to the levelling controller (8), and a driven lifting apparatus (10), which can be controlled by the levelling controller (8), for vertical movement of the chassis (3) during levelling, wherein a plurality of wheel lifting means (11) of the lifting apparatus (10) each lift and lower a vehicle wheel (6, 7) individually relative to the chassis (3), wherein a plurality of chassis supports (12) of the levelling device (2) which can be locked and also lifted and lowered are controlled by the levelling controller (8), wherein the levelling controller (8) is programmable and has one or more processors along with I / O interfaces and data memories, wherein the levelling of the individually controllable wheel lifting means (11) and also of the chassis supports (12) is carried out, characterized in that the chassis (3) is lowered by means of the lifting apparatus (10) and the levelling sensor system (9) starting from a preferably front-supported starting position (30) to an intermediate position (31) and is thereby oriented with a desired solid angle in a first main direction (34), wherein the chassis (3) is then moved to a levelling position (32) and is thereby oriented with a desired solid angle in a second main direction (35) too, wherein the chassis supports (12) which are designed as passive supports are controlled during levelling in such a way that they are lowered to the ground (33) before or during levelling and, when the lifting apparatus (10) is lowered for levelling purposes, are switched to a force-neutral state and are raised or retracted while maintaining contact with the ground and also are locked in the oriented levelling position (32).

15. Method according to Claim 14, characterized in that the chassis (3) is lowered from the starting position (30) to a lower levelling position (32) by means of the lifting apparatus (10) and is thereby oriented.