Step sealing assembly for a vehicle step system

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular step seal assembly for a step system implemented in a vehicle, in particular a rail vehicle, comprising A step module which, by means of a drive unit, can be moved along an axis of movement from a retracted position towards an extended position and vice versa, wherein the step module has a tread surface which extends in a tread surface plane aligned parallel to the axis of movement, and wherein the step module has a step module front edge at a front end directed outwards towards the vehicle, a sealing strip which is attached to the step module front edge and extends along the step module front edge substantially in a sealing strip plane, wherein the sealing strip and the step module define a vertical assembly height perpendicular to the axis of movement, and wherein the sealing strip and tread surface are arranged at an angle to each other.

[0002] Step systems with movable step modules (e.g., step plates) that can be moved between a retracted and extended position are used particularly in passenger vehicles, such as in public transport. They are suitable for use on road vehicles (e.g., buses) or rail vehicles (e.g., trams, subways, trams, local and long-distance trains, high-speed trains, etc.). Step systems are generally used to simplify boarding and alighting from a vehicle; they serve as an boarding and alighting aid. When a vehicle is stopped at a platform, such as a train or bus stop, it is in a stationary position, allowing passengers to board or disembark. In this situation, it is almost unavoidable that a gap must be bridged between the vehicle's exterior and the platform in the doorway area.Otherwise, material contact between the vehicle's exterior and the platform would inevitably occur, potentially leading to damage to the vehicle, such as sheet metal or paint damage.

[0003] If such a gap is too large, it can pose a danger or inconvenience to passengers when boarding and alighting from the vehicle. Accordingly, step systems, whose step modules are extended or folded out towards the platform when the vehicle is stationary, offer a way to reduce the gap between the vehicle and the platform. Such a step system can, for example, be designed as a step plate or step and bears the weight of passengers when they board or alight, thus being subjected to the load of foot traffic.

[0004] In the context of the invention described herein, "retracting" and "extending" the step module can be understood as a linear movement, a folding or pivoting movement, or a combined linear and pivoting movement. A retracted position can therefore readily also refer to a folded or pivoted position of the step module.

[0005] Even when a vehicle stops at a location without a dedicated platform (e.g., in a sidewalk area), a gap and / or a difference in height often needs to be overcome. In such cases, a step system (including a movable step module) can facilitate boarding and alighting. Even when the vehicle stops on level ground, a step system can at least help bridge the height difference between the level ground and the passenger compartment floor; this is especially important for passengers with physical disabilities, such as wheelchair users. Here, the step module can function as a ramp.

[0006] To ensure sufficient footing for passengers boarding and alighting, and to maximize the lifespan of the step system under continuous use, it is essential that the system possesses adequate mechanical stability. Step systems with metal treads or platforms are particularly suitable for this purpose. Furthermore, the tread surface can be equipped with textured surfaces or mats that provide an anti-slip effect, reducing the risk of slipping for passengers when boarding and alighting.

[0007] Documents US 2021 / 331715 A1, CN 202 138 388 U and EP 3 666 619 B1 show step sealing assemblies from the prior art.

[0008] Due to varying customer requirements and structural conditions (e.g., available installation space), it is known from the prior art to manufacture step systems to customer specifications, taking into account specific customer requirements. Step systems that can be flexibly adapted with regard to selected system variables or system sizes (without being manufactured separately to customer specifications) are not known from the prior art, or only to a limited extent.

[0009] Typically, step systems are sealed on the vehicle's exterior side with a sealing strip that connects to the front edge of the step module. This prevents unwanted dirt and moisture from entering the mechanics and electronics of the step system. Together with the step module, the sealing strip defines the overall height of the step system. However, depending on the structural conditions or customer requirements, it may be necessary to flexibly adjust certain structural parameters, such as the overall height of the step system or the angle between the sealing strip and the step module, or to adapt an existing step system to different customer requirements (similar to a modular system).

[0010] The present invention therefore aims to provide a step sealing assembly that can be flexibly adapted to different customer requirements.

[0011] To solve this problem, a step sealing assembly with the features of claim 1 is proposed.

[0012] The description discloses particular embodiments of the invention, especially in connection with the figures. .

[0013] It should also be noted that the conjunction "and / or" used herein, which stands between two features and links them together, is always to be interpreted in such a way that in a first embodiment of the object according to the invention only the first feature may be present, in a second embodiment only the second feature may be present, and in a third embodiment both the first and the second feature may be present.

[0014] Accordingly, the invention relates to a modular step seal assembly for a step system implemented in a vehicle, in particular a rail vehicle, comprising A step module which, by means of a drive unit, can be moved along an axis of movement from a retracted position towards an extended position and vice versa, wherein the step module has a tread surface which extends in a tread surface plane aligned parallel to the axis of movement, and wherein the step module has a step module front edge at a front end directed outwards towards the vehicle, a sealing strip which is attached to the step module front edge and extends along the step module front edge substantially in a sealing strip plane, wherein the sealing strip and the step module define a vertical assembly height perpendicular to the axis of movement, and wherein the sealing strip and tread surface are arranged at an angle to each other.

[0015] The assembly is characterized by its modular mechanism, which allows for adjustment of both the assembly height and the angle between the sealing strip and the tread. The adjustable assembly height is directly linked to the angle between the sealing strip and the tread. This modular mechanism can comprise several components, each adjustable in size (length, width), which can be compatible with the tread seal assembly despite differing dimensions. Different assembly heights and / or angles between the sealing strip and the tread can also be achieved by varying the size of the components belonging to the modular mechanism. The aforementioned tread module can be a tread plate or an arrangement with a single or double step.

[0016] The step module can be designed as a sliding step, a folding step, or a ramp. The sealing strip mentioned can be made entirely or partially of metal, plastic, or rubber. It can also be made of a composite material consisting of several of the aforementioned materials. The step module is preferably made of metal, particularly to meet the required stability requirements (keyword: load-bearing capacity).

[0017] Further embodiments of the assembly are described below. The following description includes, but is not limited to, the embodiment features specified in the dependent claims.

[0018] According to a first embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the module mechanism can comprise a first adjusting element and a second adjusting element. The first adjusting element can be mechanically connected directly to the sealing strip, so that the position (angle) of the sealing strip corresponds directly to the position of the first adjusting element (particularly with respect to its angle relative to the tread surface). The first adjusting element can bear against the sealing strip (at least partially) over a surface (on a side of the sealing strip facing inwards). Furthermore, in one variant, the first adjusting element can directly provide or form the sealing strip. The first and second adjusting elements are modular components that can be manufactured in different sizes (e.g., length or width) and combined with each other and with the described assembly.This allows, for example, flexible adjustment of the assembly height as well as the angle between the tread and the sealing strip. Such a modular system avoids the need for individual production of specific components or the entire step system when customer requirements vary, instead offering access to various modular components that are compatible with each other. This type of modular system is more economical, reduces manufacturing costs, and minimizes production lead times.

[0019] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the first adjusting element may have a first cranked mounting bead at a first end and a receiving pocket at a second end opposite the first end, with a second cranked mounting bead arranged between the first and second ends. The aforementioned first and second cranked mounting bead serve to connect (fasten) the first adjusting element to the step module, which has corresponding receptacles for the bead(s). The connection / fastening is preferably achieved by positive locking and frictional engagement, optionally by press fit (similar to a key-lock principle). The bead(s) and / or the first adjusting element may be made of metal, plastic, or rubber. The first adjusting element may be a single-part or multi-part component, which may be made of one or more materials.For example, the beads (or one of the beads) can be vulcanized to the first adjusting element (or a metal base of the adjusting element). The receiving pocket can serve to connect the first adjusting element to the sealing strip, which may have a corresponding sealing bead. The sealing bead can be received in the receiving pocket in a form-fit and force-fit manner (e.g., in an interference fit). In particular, the sealing bead can be arranged at a lower (inner) end of the sealing strip, while the sealing strip can be fastened in a further (possibly blind-hole-shaped) receptacle by means of a fastening bead at its upper (also inner) end. This, too, can be done in an interference fit. The upper fastening bead can also be made of rubber.

[0020] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the first and second cranked mounting ridges project from a first side of the first adjusting element, the receiving pocket also projects from the first side, and the receiving pocket is at least partially open towards a second side of the first adjusting element opposite the first side. The first and second cranked mounting ridges are thus raised (projected) with respect to a surface belonging to the first side. The receiving pocket can, for example, have a U-, C-, or circular cross-section. Furthermore, depending on its design, the receiving pocket can have a blind-hole-like cross-section.

[0021] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, a plurality of locking lugs, in particular two locking lugs, can be formed on the first cranked mounting bead. The locking lugs can be made of the same material as the first cranked mounting bead. Alternatively, the locking lugs can be made of a different material than the mounting bead. The first cranked mounting bead can—like the second cranked mounting bead—have an at least partially circular cross-sectional shape. The locking lugs extend radially outwards from a surface of the first cranked mounting bead.

[0022] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, a first mounting bead receptacle for receiving the first cranked mounting bead can be formed on an underside of the step module facing away from the tread surface plane. This receptacle has a plurality of detent recesses, in particular three, for receiving the plurality of detent lugs, in particular two, so that the first adjusting element can assume a plurality of angular positions, in particular two, relative to the first mounting bead receptacle. In a particular embodiment, the first mounting bead receptacle can have three detent recesses, while the first cranked mounting bead has only two detent lugs. Therefore, the first cranked mounting bead can assume two positions in the mounting bead receptacle.Assuming the adjacent detent receptacles are labeled 1, 2, and 3, the detent lugs, labeled A and B at these points, can engage either in detent receptacles 1, 2 or 2, 3, thus assuming two positions. The mounting bead receptacle therefore receives the first offset mounting bead, and the detent lugs engage in the detent receptacles. The first offset mounting bead can preferably be arranged in an interference fit within the mounting bead receptacle.

[0023] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, a group of second mounting bead receptacles, in particular three second mounting bead receptacles, arranged one behind the other with respect to the axis of movement, can be provided at a distance from the first mounting bead receptacle, particularly in the direction towards the interior of the vehicle. The second mounting bead receptacles can be arranged at a constant or varying distance from each other.

[0024] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the second adjusting element can have a bead-like flange at a first end and a receiving section at a second end opposite the first end. The second mounting bead receptacles are preferably adapted in their geometry or cross-section to the shape of the bead-like flange. The flange can also be arranged—preferably—in a press fit within one of the second mounting bead receptacles. Depending on which of the three second mounting bead receptacles the bead-like flange of the second adjusting element is arranged in, the angle of the first adjusting element (and thus the sealing strip) to the tread surface can be adjusted. Possible, but not exclusive, angles are 90°, 80°, 70°, 60°, 50°, or 40°. Angles between these values ​​are also possible between the first adjusting element and the tread surface.Different lengths of the first and second adjusting element can also be used via the different second mounting bead receptacles.

[0025] As mentioned, a further embodiment of the assembly proposed by the invention allows for the bead-like flange of the second adjusting member to be received in one of the second mounting bead receptacles by positive locking, wherein the second cranked mounting bead of the first adjusting member is received in the receiving section of the second adjusting member by positive locking. This positive locking can be a form-fit and force-fit connection (e.g., an interference fit). The coupling of the second cranked mounting bead to the second adjusting member via the receiving section can include a movable pivot bearing, i.e., the second adjusting member can be pivotable relative to the first adjusting member (provided the bead-like flange is not arranged in one of the second mounting bead receptacles).

[0026] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the receiving pocket formed on the first adjusting element can be designed for the positive engagement of a sealing strip bead formed on the sealing strip. Here, too, the positive engagement can be understood as an engagement based on a form-fit and force-fit connection (e.g., an interference fit). Through such a connection between the sealing strip and the first adjusting element, the position of the sealing strip can be adjusted depending on the position of the first adjusting element. The sealing strip bead can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the receiving pocket, particularly with regard to the cross-section of the receiving pocket.

[0027] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, it can be provided that the first and / or second adjusting element is designed in the manner of a linkage. This can mean that the first and / or second adjusting element can each have a base body designed in the manner of a linkage.

[0028] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the first and / or second adjusting element can extend parallel to and along the sealing strip. It can also be provided that the first adjusting element extends parallel to and along the sealing strip, while the second adjusting element is designed as a linkage. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second adjusting element extends parallel to and along the sealing strip, while the first adjusting element is designed as a linkage. To provide a modular system, the first and second adjusting elements can be manufactured, stored, and used in different lengths.

[0029] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the first mounting bead receptacle can be designed in the form of a receiving groove that extends parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the tread module, and the first cranked mounting bead of the first adjusting element extends parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the tread module. Such an embodiment can ensure a particularly mechanically stable construction of the component parts involved, which can increase the service life of the system.

[0030] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the second mounting bead receptacles can each be designed in the form of receiving grooves that extend parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the step module, and the bead-like flange of the second adjusting element extends parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the step module. This embodiment can also provide a particularly mechanically stable construction of the component parts involved, which can increase the service life of the system.

[0031] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the receiving pocket of the first adjusting element can be designed in the form of a receiving groove that extends parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the step module, and the sealing strip bead extends parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the step module. This embodiment can also provide a particularly mechanically stable construction of the component parts involved, which can increase the service life of the system.

[0032] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the receiving section of the second adjusting element can be designed as a receiving groove extending parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the step module, and the second cranked mounting bead of the first adjusting element extends parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the step module. This embodiment can also provide a particularly mechanically stable construction of the component parts involved, which can increase the service life of the system.

[0033] In a further embodiment of an assembly proposed by the invention, the first adjusting element can form the sealing strip. In this case, a receiving pocket at the lower end of the first adjusting element is unnecessary. When the first adjusting element directly forms the sealing strip, it must be made of a material suitable for sealing (in particular, rubber, plastic, or metal). Alternatively, a metallic core coated with plastic or rubber can be provided. In such an embodiment (where the first adjusting element forms the sealing strip), the first adjusting element extends parallel and in one direction along the front edge of the step module. A fastening bead can be formed at the upper end of the first adjusting element for attachment in a receptacle on the step module.

[0034] The invention is further explained with reference to the following figures. These are to be understood as examples only and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0035] They show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a section of a step module front edge of a step system including sealing strip; Fig. 2 a schematic cross-sectional view of a step sealing assembly according to the invention in the assembled state; Fig. 3 a schematic cross-sectional view of a step module as a component of a step sealing assembly according to the invention. Fig. 2 ; Fig. 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of a first adjusting element as a component of a step-sealing assembly according to the invention Fig. 2 ; Fig. 5 a schematic cross-sectional view of a second adjusting element as a component of a step sealing assembly according to the invention Fig. 2 ;

[0036] In the Fig. 2 Figure 1 illustrates the modular step-seal assembly 1 underlying the invention in a cross-sectional view in its assembled state. The assembly 1 is used in a vehicle, particularly a rail vehicle, as a so-called boarding aid. As shown, the assembly 1 comprises a step module 2, which, by means of a drive unit (not shown), can be moved along a movement axis A from a retracted position to an extended position and vice versa. The step module 2 has a tread surface 3, which is subjected to pressure when passengers board and alight. The tread surface 3 extends in a plane parallel to the movement axis A. The step module 2 has a front edge 4 at its outward-facing front end.

[0037] As in Fig. 1 As shown, the assembly also includes a sealing strip 5 which is attached to the front edge 4 of the step module and extends along the front edge 4 of the step module substantially in a sealing strip plane, wherein the sealing strip 5 and the step module 2 define a vertical assembly height H perpendicular to the axis of movement A ( Fig. 2 ), and wherein the sealing strip 5 and the tread surface 3 are arranged at an angle β to each other.

[0038] The assembly height H and the angle β between sealing strip 5 and tread surface 3 are adjustable via a modular mechanism. This modular mechanism comprises a first adjusting element 6 and a second adjusting element 7. The first adjusting element 6 has a first cranked mounting bead 8 at one end and a receiving pocket 9 at a second end opposite the first end, with a second cranked mounting bead 10 arranged between the first and second ends. This is described in detail in the Fig. 4 The first and second cranked mounting ridges 8, 10 project from a first side 11 of the first adjusting element 6. The receiving pocket 9 also projects from the first side 11. Furthermore, the receiving pocket 9 is at least partially open towards a second side 12 of the first adjusting element 6 opposite the first side 11.

[0039] As especially in Fig. 4 As can be clearly seen, two locking lugs 13 are formed on the first cranked fastening bead 8. Fig. 3 shows that a first fastening bead receptacle 15 is formed on an underside 14 of the step module 2 facing away from the tread surface plane, which is intended to receive the first cranked fastening bead 8 ( Fig. 2 ), wherein the receptacle 15 has three detent receptacles 16 for receiving the detent lugs 13, so that the first adjusting element 6 can assume two angular positions in relation to the first mounting bead receptacle 15.

[0040] As in Fig. 3 As shown, a group G of three second mounting bead receptacles 17 arranged one behind the other in relation to the axis of movement A is formed spaced apart from the first mounting bead receptacle 15 in the direction towards the vehicle interior.

[0041] The second adjusting element 7 has a bead-like flange 18 at a first end and a receiving section 19 at a second end opposite the first end ( Fig. 5 ). The bead-like flange 18 of the second adjusting element 7 can be received in one of the second mounting bead receptacles 17 under positive locking (cf. Fig. 2 ), wherein the second cranked mounting bead 10 of the first adjusting member 6 is to be received under positive locking in the receiving section 19 of the second adjusting member 7 (also Fig. 2 The receiving pocket 9 formed on the first adjusting element 6 is designed for the positive-locking reception of a sealing strip bead 20 formed on the sealing strip 5, which in Fig. 2 is illustrated by example.

[0042] If the second adjusting element 7 is omitted, the first adjusting element 6 can be arranged at an angle of approximately or exactly 90° to the tread surface 3. By providing a second adjusting element 7, an angle β deviating from a perpendicular position of the first adjusting element 6 to the tread surface 3 can be set by arranging the bead-like flange 18 in one of the second mounting bead receptacles 17 and arranging the second cranked mounting bead 10 in the receptacle section 19. Depending on which of the second mounting bead receptacles 17 the bead-like flange 18 is fixed in, different angles β can be set. Furthermore, different lengths of the first and / or second adjusting element 6, 7 can be provided by the multiple second mounting bead receptacles 17. This increases the degrees of freedom for height and angle adjustment. Bezugszeichenliste

[0043] 1 Step sealing assembly 2 Step module 3 Tread surface 4 Step module front edge 5 Sealing strip 6 First adjusting link 7 Second adjusting link 8 First cranked mounting bead 9 Mounting pocket 10 Second cranked mounting bead 11 First side 12 Second side 13 Locking lug 14 Underside 15 First mounting bead receptacle 16 Locking receptacle 17 Second mounting bead receptacle 18 Bead-shaped flange 19 Mounting section 20 Sealing strip bead A Movement axis G Group H Assembly height β Angle

Claims

1. A modular step seal assembly (1) for a step system implemented in a vehicle, in particular rail vehicle, comprising - a step module (2), which, using a drive unit, can be moved along a movement axis (A) from a retracted position in the direction of an extended position and vice versa, wherein the step module (2) has a step surface (3), which extends in a step surface plane oriented parallel to the movement axis (A), and wherein the step module (2) has a step module front edge (4) on a front end directed towards the vehicle exterior, - a sealing strip (5), which is fastened to the step module front edge (4) and which extends along the step module front edge (4) essentially in a sealing strip plane, wherein the sealing strip (5) and the step module (2) define a vertical assembly height (H) perpendicularly to the movement axis (A), and wherein the sealing strip (5) and step surface (3) are arranged at an angle (β) to one another, characterized in that the assembly height (H) as well as the angle (β) between sealing strip (5) and step surface (3) can be set via a modular mechanism.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the modular mechanism comprises a first adjusting member (6) and a second adjusting member (7), wherein the first adjusting member (6) optionally forms the sealing strip (5).

3. The assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the first adjusting member (6) has a first cranked fastening bead (8) on a first end and a receiving pocket (9) on a second end lying opposite the first end, wherein a second cranked fastening bead (10) is arranged between the first end and the second end.

4. The assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that the first and second cranked fastening bead (8, 10) protrude starting from a first side (11) of the first adjusting member (6), that the receiving pocket (9) likewise protrudes starting from the first side (11), and that the receiving pocket (9) is at least partly open in the direction of a second side (12) of the first adjusting member (6) lying opposite the first side (11).

5. The assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that a plurality of latching lugs (13), in particular two latching lugs (13), are formed on the first cranked fastening bead (8).

6. The assembly according to one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that a first fastening bead receptacle (15) for receiving the first cranked fastening bead (8) is formed on an underside (14) of the step module (2) facing away from the step surface plane, wherein the receptacle (15) has a plurality of latching receptacles (16), in particular three latching receptacles (16), for receiving the plurality of latching lugs (13), in particular two latching lugs (13), so that the first adjusting member (6) can take up a plurality of angular positions, in particular two angular positions, with respect to the first fastening bead receptacle (15).

7. The assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that spaced apart from the first fastening bead receptacle (15), in particular in the direction towards the vehicle interior, a group (G) of second fastening bead receptacles (17), in particular three second fastening bead receptacles (17), is formed, which are arranged one behind the other with respect to the movement axis (A).

8. The assembly according to one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the second adjusting member (7) has a bead-like flange (18) on a first end and a receiving section (19) on a second end lying opposite the first end.

9. The assembly group according to claim 8, characterized in that the bead-like flange (18) of the second adjusting member (7) can be received by means of a positive connection in one of the second fastening bead receptacles (17), wherein the second cranked fastening bead (10) of the first adjusting member (6) can be received by means of a positive connection in the receiving section (19) of the second adjusting member (7).

10. The assembly according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the receiving pocket (9) formed on the first adjusting member (6) is formed for receiving a sealing strip bead (20) formed on the sealing strip (5) in a positive manner.

11. The assembly according to one of claims 2 to 10, characterized in that the first and / or second adjusting member (6, 7) is formed in the manner of a linkage.

12. The assembly according to one of claims 2 to 11, characterized in that the first and / or second adjusting member (6, 7) extend parallel to and along the sealing strip (5).

13. The assembly according to claim 12 and at least claim 6, characterized in that the first fastening bead receptacle (15) is formed in the form of a receiving groove, which extends parallel to and in a direction along the step module front edge (4), and that the first cranked fastening bead (8) of the first adjusting member (6) extends parallel to and in a direction along the step module front edge (4).

14. The assembly according to claim 12 and at least claim 7, characterized in that the second fastening bead receptacles (17) are each formed in the form of receiving grooves, which extend parallel to and in a direction along the step module front edge (4), and that the bead-like flange (18) of the second adjusting member (7) extends parallel to and in a direction along the step module front edge (4).

15. The assembly according to claim 12 and at least claim 3, characterized in that the receiving pocket (9) of the first adjusting member (6) is formed in the form of a receiving groove, which extends parallel to and in a direction along the step module front edge (4), and that the sealing strip bead (20) extends parallel to and in a direction along the step module front edge (4).

16. The assembly according to claim 12, at least claim 8 and at least claim 3, characterized in that the receiving section (19) of the second adjusting member (7) is formed in the form of a receiving groove, which extends parallel to and in a direction along the step module front edge (4), and that the second cranked fastening bead (10) of the first adjusting member (6) extends parallel to and in a direction along the step module front edge (4).