TARPAULIN TENSIONING DEVICE, TARPAULIN STRUCTURE AND COMMERCIAL VEHICLE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a tarpaulin structure for a commercial vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1 and a commercial vehicle.

[0002] In addition to box bodies, commercial vehicles also feature curtain-sided bodies, where the side walls and roof are enclosed by at least one tarpaulin. The front wall of a curtain-sided body is usually a solid wall, while the rear wall is formed, for example, by two swing doors to allow loading from the rear. When a side tarpaulin can be slid along a side wall, the body is also called a curtainsider. The roof of a curtain-sided body typically has laterally arranged longitudinal beams, which are connected to each other by bows, forming a frame structure that runs transversely across the vehicle. This frame structure then supports the tarpaulin covering the roof. The frame structure is supported, for example, by stanchions located at the corners of the vehicle or distributed between these corner stanchions along the side wall as center stanchions.Tarpaulin superstructures also feature a loading floor on which cargo to be transported can be placed in the cargo area of ​​the tarpaulin superstructure.

[0003] The side tarpaulins are made of a flat tarpaulin material, with a keder (seam) along each side edge. The tarpaulin material is usually plastic or other plastics and can be connected at one upper edge to sliding sleds that move along a longitudinal beam of the roof, allowing the side tarpaulin to be moved lengthwise for loading and unloading the cargo area and for closing the side wall.

[0004] The keder of the side tarpaulin is securely held in place by so-called tarpaulin tensioning devices, which are used to tension the side tarpaulin before driving. For this purpose, the tarpaulin tensioning devices are first moved from a non-use position to a use position. In the non-use position, the tarpaulin tensioning devices can be moved loosely along the side wall with the tarpaulin material to allow loading and unloading of the cargo area of ​​the tarpaulin body and to subsequently close the opened side wall again. In the use position, the tarpaulin tensioning devices are connected to the corner posts located on the opposite side wall. The tarpaulin tensioning devices are inserted into receptacles in the corner posts.

[0005] For example, the tarpaulin tensioning devices are designed as tarpaulin tensioning tubes, which a vehicle user can rotate around their own longitudinal axis using a tensioning device connected to a corner post. This causes a portion of the tarpaulin material to wrap around the tensioning device in the form of the tensioning tube, thus tensioning the side tarpaulin. This is intended to minimize flapping movements of the side tarpaulin caused by the wind. The opposite tarpaulin tensioning device, which is inserted into an opposing corner post, can be tensioned in the same way with a tensioning device, provided that a tensioning device is also provided at the corresponding corner post and the tarpaulin tensioning device there is designed as a suitable tarpaulin tensioning tube.Otherwise, the tensioning device there, which may be in the form of a so-called hook strip, serves only to connect to the corner post and as a counter-support for tensioning the tarpaulin material by rotating the opposite tensioning device. The two tensioning devices do not necessarily have to be distinguishable from each other, so that both can be referred to as tarpaulin tensioning tubes, regardless of whether both are rotated around their longitudinal axis to tension the side tarpaulin, or even whether they can be rotated at all.

[0006] To reduce air resistance when transporting partially loaded tarpaulin bodies, tarpaulin bodies with a lowerable roof, particularly at the rear of the vehicle, are known. The roof can be locked in an upper position when the vehicle is fully loaded to maximize cargo volume or loading height. If the vehicle is not fully loaded and the entire volume of the tarpaulin body is not required for cargo storage, the roof can be locked in a lowered position to reduce air resistance. For example, the rear corner posts of the tarpaulin body are designed to be height-adjustable or telescopic for this purpose.

[0007] Lowering the tarpaulin is particularly effective when it can be done very far as needed. Excess tarpaulin material must be gathered and stowed in such a way that it does not flap in the wind and unnecessarily increase the vehicle's air resistance.

[0008] From DE 10 2006 044 208 B3, a side tensioning device for the horizontal tightening of a side tarpaulin of a commercial vehicle body is known. The side tensioning device comprises a laterally slotted vertical tube into which a lateral fastening section can be inserted in the area of ​​a side tarpaulin edge and can be wound up and unwound. A tensioning shaft is coupled to a lower end of the vertical tube and is rotatable about a vertical axis. The vertical tube consists of a slotted base tube and a slotted slide, which is telescopically displaceable within the base tube to change the length of the vertical tube. One length of the slide corresponds to one height of the side tarpaulin, with the slide alone supporting the side tarpaulin edge. A base tube is interrupted by a slot guide, the length of which is limited according to the extension length of the slide.The slide has a projection that can only be moved within the limited slot guide, which, when the base tube is rotated, contacts side walls of the slide and causes it to rotate around the axis of the vertical tube.

[0009] Furthermore, EP 3 981 625 A1 discloses a tarpaulin superstructure for a commercial vehicle with a side tarpaulin. The side tarpaulin comprises tarpaulin material for closing a cargo space and a tensioning device for tensioning the tarpaulin material. The tensioning device is adjustable between a working position for tensioning the tarpaulin material and a non-working position for sliding the tarpaulin material along one side of the tarpaulin superstructure. The tensioning device can be moved into several different working positions and is designed in multiple parts. One part of the tensioning device is designed as an extension element. On the one hand, this part is connected to another part of the tensioning device in an extended working position, thereby increasing the effective length of the tensioning device. On the other hand, in a shortened working position, it is not connected, thus not increasing the effective length of the tensioning device.The tarpaulin material has a notch or recess in the connection area between the extension element and the other part of the tarpaulin tensioning device. On one side of the notch or recess, the tarpaulin material is held in the extension element by a keder, and on the opposite side of the notch or recess, it is held in the other part of the tarpaulin tensioning device by a keder.

[0010] EP 3 766 714 A1 describes a device for tensioning a height-adjustable tarpaulin of a commercial vehicle body, comprising a tensioning element and a winding shaft unit. The winding shaft unit is connected to the tensioning element by force-fit, form-fit, and / or friction-fit to apply a torque to the winding shaft unit along a longitudinal axis of the winding shaft unit. The winding shaft unit has a first main shaft with a first main shaft end and a second main shaft end, and a first sliding shaft with a first sliding shaft end and a second sliding shaft end. The first main shaft and the first sliding shaft are each designed as a slotted hollow shaft with an inner profile for receiving a keder (seam) of the tarpaulin. The first sliding shaft is received in the inner profile of the first main shaft.An outer profile of the first sliding shaft engages with the inner profile of the first main shaft in such a way that the sliding shaft and the first main shaft can only be moved in the longitudinal direction relative to each other.

[0011] German patent DE 10 2021 200 729 A1 describes a tensioning device for a side tarpaulin of a commercial vehicle with a tensioning shaft driven by a tensioning mechanism. The tensioning shaft forms an axial, undercut receiving groove for a thickened connecting edge of the side tarpaulin and is composed of a carrier shaft and a shaft extension that is telescopically guided relative to the carrier shaft. The shaft extension includes a slotted sleeve that is slidable on the carrier shaft, the inwardly curved edges of which form rotation stops that engage in a groove opening of the receiving groove of the carrier shaft. The sleeve has a shaft stub corresponding to the carrier shaft, which is inserted into the end of the sleeve facing away from the carrier shaft in a way that prevents displacement.

[0012] German patent DE 102 10 773 C1 describes a roller rod as a component of a corner post for tarpaulin-covered vehicles, featuring a lateral slot running in the axial direction for inserting a keder-equipped edge of a side tarpaulin to be tightened. The roller rod consists of a main rod and a slider, which are rotatable and telescopic relative to each other and both have a lateral slot that can be brought into coincidence. An interior space within the slider receives the keder. When the tarpaulin is tightened, a clamping action occurs at the narrowing coincidence of the two slots, securing the slider against the main rod.

[0013] The invention is based on the objective of specifying a novel tarpaulin structure for a commercial vehicle and a novel commercial vehicle.

[0014] The problem is solved according to the invention by a tarpaulin structure which has the features specified in claim 1, and a commercial vehicle which has the features specified in claim 13.

[0015] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0016] A tarpaulin body for a commercial vehicle comprises a front wall, a rear wall, two side walls, a floor, and a roof extending between the front wall, the rear wall, and the side walls, the height of which above the floor is variably adjustable. Furthermore, the tarpaulin body includes at least one tarpaulin, which forms at least sections of the front wall, the rear wall, and / or at least one of the side walls. The tarpaulin is attached to the roof at one end, allowing it to slide along the longitudinal and / or transverse direction of the tarpaulin body. The tarpaulin body also includes at least one tensioning device, attached to one end of the tarpaulin, designed to tension the tarpaulin in a closed position along the longitudinal and / or transverse direction of the tarpaulin body.

[0017] The tarpaulin tensioning device comprises a tubular and / or rod-shaped tensioning element. The tensioning element is multi-part, consisting of several tensioning elements arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the tensioning device and connectable or linked to one another. The tensioning elements are positively connected or linked to one another circumferentially around the longitudinal direction of the tensioning device by means of connecting sections. At least one positioning element is arranged or formed on the connecting section of a tensioning element. At least one positioning structure complementary to the at least one positioning element is arranged or formed on the connecting section of a further tensioning element intended for connection with the tensioning element.The at least one positioning element and the at least one positioning structure are arranged and designed such that the two tarpaulin tensioning elements can be connected to each other in exactly one relative position to create a positive-locking connection in the circumferential direction. The tarpaulin can be wrapped around the tarpaulin tensioning device for tensioning in the circumferential direction.

[0018] According to the invention, when the roof height is reduced, a connection between at least two tarpaulin tensioning elements is severed.

[0019] The adjustable roof height reduces the air resistance of the tarpaulin structure and thus the energy required to move it. Thanks to the tarpaulin tensioning device, tensioning the tarpaulin is particularly easy and reliable, even at different roof heights. This allows for simple compensation of height differences between the maximum and minimum height of the roof above the ground.

[0020] The multi-part tarpaulin tensioning device ensures particularly simple and reliable tensioning of the tarpaulin, especially when the roof of the tarpaulin structure can be positioned at varying heights above the structure's base. By creating and disconnecting connections between multiple tensioning elements, significant height differences between the maximum and minimum heights of the roof above the base can be compensated for.

[0021] The positioning element and structure ensure correct alignment of the tarpaulin tensioning elements relative to each other. This guarantees that the fastening structures attached to the tensioning elements are always correctly aligned when the tensioning elements are connected, thus ensuring secure, quick, and easy attachment of the tarpaulin. The tarpaulin tensioning device therefore enables the implementation of the so-called Poka-Yoke principle.

[0022] In one possible configuration of the tarpaulin structure, the positioning element projects outwards or inwards from the associated connecting section, at least essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the tarpaulin tensioning device. A positioning element designed in this way is particularly easy to manufacture and reliably fulfills its function.

[0023] In another possible configuration of the tarpaulin structure, the positioning element is a recess incorporated into the corresponding connecting section. Such a positioning element is particularly easy to manufacture and reliably fulfills its function, especially in combination with a previously described complementary projecting positioning element.

[0024] In another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin assembly, the positioning structure is a recess incorporated into a lateral surface of the associated connecting section, completely penetrating the lateral surface in sections. When the tarpaulin tensioning elements are connected, this lateral surface forms part of a visible side of the tarpaulin tensioning device. This penetrating design of the recess in the lateral surface allows the user to identify the position of the positioning element within the positioning structure, thus enabling both simpler and more intuitive connection of the tarpaulin tensioning elements and verification of the precise and correct connection position of the tarpaulin tensioning elements.

[0025] In another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin assembly, the connecting section of one tarpaulin tensioning element includes at least one retaining element. The connecting section of the other tarpaulin tensioning element has at least one retaining structure, wherein, in a connected state of the tarpaulin tensioning elements, the retaining element is connected to the retaining structure in the longitudinal direction of the tarpaulin tensioning device by force-fit and / or form-fit. This ensures that the connection of the tarpaulin tensioning elements in the longitudinal direction of the tarpaulin tensioning device is secured by preventing any possible longitudinal movement of the tarpaulin tensioning elements relative to each other.

[0026] In another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin assembly, the retaining element is spring-mounted perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tarpaulin tensioning device and, when the tarpaulin tensioning elements are connected, is positively locked to the retaining structure in the longitudinal direction of the tarpaulin tensioning device. The spring mounting allows for particularly easy handling of the tarpaulin tensioning device during connection of the tarpaulin tensioning elements and reliably prevents any longitudinal movement of the tarpaulin tensioning elements relative to each other.

[0027] In another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin structure, the retaining element is designed, for example, in such a way that it inhibits movement of the tarpaulin tensioning elements in the longitudinal direction relative to each other solely through friction.

[0028] In another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin structure, the holding element is designed, for example, in such a way that it inhibits movement of the tarpaulin tensioning elements in the longitudinal direction relative to each other by means of magnetic forces with the holding structure.

[0029] In another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin assembly, the retaining element is designed, for example, such that when the tarpaulin tensioning elements reach a target position relative to each other, it is manually or automatically moved from a non-restricting rest position to an operating position that restricts the longitudinal movement of the tarpaulin tensioning elements relative to each other. In the simplest case, a user engages a retaining element with the holding structure. In an automated version, the retaining element is coupled to an actuating mechanism that engages the retaining element with the holding structure when the tarpaulin tensioning elements reach a target position relative to each other. The actuating mechanism can be, for example, mechanically, electrically, and / or magnetically operated and / or controlled.For example, shortly before reaching the target position, the actuating mechanism can be mechanically moved by moving the tarpaulin tensioning elements towards each other and its movement can be transferred directly or indirectly to the holding element, so that it engages with the holding structure.

[0030] In another possible configuration of the tarpaulin structure, the holding element and the positioning element are a single component. This enables a simple, cost-effective, and reliable implementation of the correctly positioned arrangement of the positioning elements, secured against longitudinal movement, using a single component.

[0031] In another possible configuration of the tarpaulin structure, the holding structure and the positioning structure are a single, unified structure. This enables a simple, cost-effective, and reliable implementation of the positioning elements, ensuring they are correctly oriented and secured against longitudinal movement, using a single, unified structure.

[0032] In another possible design of the tarpaulin assembly, sections of the retaining element and the holding structure intended for interaction are shaped as spherical segments. This allows the user to easily and conveniently connect the tarpaulin tensioning elements and simultaneously secure them to each other.

[0033] In another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin assembly, a manually operated tensioning handle and / or a motor-driven tensioning device are provided, wherein the tensioning handle and / or the tensioning device have a connecting section corresponding to a connecting section of a tarpaulin tensioning element to be coupled, and the tarpaulin tensioning device can be rotated about its longitudinal axis by means of the tensioning handle and / or the tensioning device. Such a design enables a simple and secure coupling of the tarpaulin tensioning device to the tensioning handle and / or the tensioning device and a secure operation of the tarpaulin tensioning device.

[0034] In another possible configuration of the tarpaulin structure, each tarpaulin tensioning element features a fastening structure for securing the tarpaulin. This fastening structure is, for example, a longitudinal notch or recess on the outer side of the tensioning element, designed to accommodate a keder attached to the tarpaulin. This allows for both secure and easy fastening, as well as a secure hold of the tarpaulin on the tensioning elements.

[0035] In another possible configuration of the tarpaulin structure, the connecting sections of the tarpaulin tensioning elements each have a non-circular cross-section to create the positive-locking connection in the circumferential direction. The cross-section can have any conceivable non-circular shape, for example, an oval shape, a polygonal shape, an elliptical shape, etc.

[0036] Another possible design for the tarpaulin structure involves attaching the upper section of the tarpaulin to the roof in a way that allows it to slide laterally, thus creating a sliding tarpaulin. This facilitates easy access to the interior of the tarpaulin structure as well as simple loading and unloading.

[0037] According to another possible design of the tarpaulin structure, the mechanically flexible tarpaulin, in order to follow the height adjustment of the roof, can be folded into a pleat inside the structure, so that this pleat corresponds to a height adjustment dimension of the structure. Due to the variable length of the tensioning device, this pleat can be positioned at the respective separation point after the corresponding tensioning elements have been cut. Depending on the number of tensioning elements, tension of the tarpaulin can thus be easily ensured at different roof heights, thereby minimizing movement, especially fluttering, during movement of the structure and the resulting increased air resistance and noise.

[0038] In another possible configuration of the tarpaulin structure, at the maximum height of the roof, the tarpaulin tensioning elements are connected to each other in the longitudinal direction of the tarpaulin tensioning device.

[0039] In another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin structure, the tarpaulin has, in at least one area intended for the connection of two tarpaulin tensioning elements, an interruption in the fastening structure for attachment to the fastening structure of the tarpaulin tensioning elements. This allows for easy separation and connection of the tarpaulin tensioning elements and, for example, the simple creation of a fold in the tarpaulin, thus enabling easy tensioning of the tarpaulin when the roof is lowered.

[0040] The commercial vehicle according to the invention comprises at least one of the aforementioned tarpaulin structures and is thus characterized, due to the tarpaulin tensioning device, by a particularly simple and reliable tensioning of the tarpaulin and consequently by a secure and reliable closure with high variability.

[0041] Commercial vehicles are understood to include in particular trucks, trailers and semi-trailers, whereby the tarpaulin structure can be part of a truck, trailer or semi-trailer.

[0042] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to drawings.

[0043] It shows: Figure 1 schematically shows a side view of a commercial vehicle, Figure 2 schematically shows a side view of a tarpaulin tensioning device, Figure 3 schematically shows a longitudinal section of a tarpaulin tensioning element in the area of ​​a connecting section, Figure 4 schematically shows a cross-section of the tarpaulin tensioning element according to Figure 3 In the area of ​​the connecting section, Figure 5 schematically shows a longitudinal section of another tarpaulin tensioning element in the area of ​​a connecting section, and Figure 6 schematically shows a longitudinal section of the tarpaulin tensioning elements according to the Figures 3 and 4 in the area of ​​the connecting sections in a connected state of the tarpaulin tensioning elements.

[0044] Corresponding parts are marked with the same reference symbols in all figures.

[0045] In Figure 1Figure 1 shows a side view of a possible embodiment of a commercial vehicle 1, wherein the commercial vehicle 1 is a so-called articulated vehicle, also referred to as a semi-trailer truck. The articulated vehicle is a combination consisting of a tractor unit 2 and a semi-trailer 3.

[0046] The semi-trailer 3 comprises a tarpaulin body 4, which is designed as a so-called tautliner (English: curtainsider) or sliding tarpaulin body. The tarpaulin body 4 comprises a front wall 4.1, a rear wall 4.2, two side walls 4.3 (only one of which is shown), a floor 4.4, and a roof 4.5 extending between the front wall 4.1, the rear wall 4.2, and the side walls 4.3.

[0047] At least one of the side walls 4.3 comprises a mechanically flexible tarpaulin 5, which, in the closed state shown, is attached to the roof 4.5, specifically to an upper frame section of a frame of the tarpaulin structure 4 (not shown in detail), by means of an upper tarpaulin section 5.1. The upper tarpaulin section 5.1 is slidably attached to the roof 4.5 in the transverse direction x of the tarpaulin 5. For this purpose, a guide (not shown in detail), for example a guide rail, is formed on the roof 4.5, and corresponding guide elements, for example guide rollers engaging in the guide rail, are arranged on the upper tarpaulin section 5.1. Thus, the tarpaulin 5 is a so-called curtain tarpaulin, also referred to as a side curtain.

[0048] The tarpaulin 5 is attached in a closed state to a lower tarpaulin section 5.2 opposite the upper tarpaulin section 5.1, for example by means of several tarpaulin fastening elements (not shown), and tensioned against the ground 4.4, in particular against a lower frame section of the frame of the tarpaulin structure 4 (not shown). Alternatively, a sliding attachment of the lower tarpaulin section 5.2 to the ground 4.4 is also possible here, analogous to the attachment of the upper tarpaulin section 5.1 to the roof 4.5.

[0049] In order to minimize movements occurring during a journey of the commercial vehicle 1, in particular fluttering, of the tarpaulin 5 during a movement of the tarpaulin superstructure 4 and consequently increased flow resistance and noise generation, it is provided that the tarpaulin 5 is tensioned in the transverse direction x when closed.

[0050] For this tensioning, the tarpaulin structure 4 in the illustrated embodiment comprises two tarpaulin tensioning devices 6. Each of the tarpaulin tensioning devices 6 includes a tubular and / or rod-shaped tarpaulin tensioning element 7, which forms a so-called corner post of the tarpaulin structure 4 and extends longitudinally in the vertical direction z of the tarpaulin structure 4. To execute the tensioning, the tarpaulin 5 is attached to each of its respective tarpaulin tensioning elements 7 by a front tarpaulin section 5.3 and a rear tarpaulin section 5.4, and can be wrapped around the respective tarpaulin tensioning element 7 for tensioning in the circumferential direction. To execute a rotational movement in the circumferential direction about their longitudinal axis, the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7 are each coupled or can be coupled to a manually operated tensioning handle and / or a motor-driven tensioning device and can be fixed in a rotated and, in particular, tensioned position.

[0051] In exemplary embodiments not shown in detail, a tarpaulin tensioning device 6 may also be provided at only one end of the tarpaulin 5.

[0052] To improve the aerodynamics of the semi-trailer 3, the height h of the roof 4.5 above the ground 4.4 can be variably adjusted in one or more steps. The height h can be adjusted uniformly over the entire length of the tarpaulin superstructure 4. Alternatively, the height h can decrease or increase along the length of the tarpaulin superstructure 4.

[0053] In order to achieve a secure and reliable fastening and tensioning of the tarpaulin 5 at different heights h, h' of the roof 4.5 above the ground 4.4, while simultaneously ensuring a safe and easy-to-handle design of the tarpaulin tensioning devices 6, the tarpaulin tensioning devices 7 are designed in multiple parts.

[0054] One possible embodiment of such a multi-part design of a tarpaulin tensioning device 7 is shown in a side view in Figure 2 depicted.

[0055] The tarpaulin tensioning device 7 comprises several longitudinally arranged and connectable or linked tubular and / or rod-shaped tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 to 7.n, which are connected by means of Figures 4 to 6 The connection sections V1 and V2, as shown in more detail, can be positively connected or are connected to each other in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal direction z of the tarpaulin tensioning device 7.

[0056] The number and / or length of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 to 7.n per tarpaulin tensioning device 7 are or is arbitrary, in particular depending on the number and / or size of steps for adjusting the height of the roof 4.5.

[0057] To fasten the tarpaulin 5 to the tarpaulin tensioning device 7, the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 to 7.n each have a fastening structure B1 to Bn. The fastening structure B1 to Bn is, for example, a notch or recess made in the longitudinal direction z of the tarpaulin tensioning device 7 on an outer side of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 to 7.n, which is designed to receive a keder arranged on the tarpaulin 5.

[0058] With such a design of the fastening structures B1 to Bn, it is necessary that they - as shown - run in a straight line in the connected state of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 to 7.n in order to allow the insertion of the tarpaulin 5 with its keder.

[0059] For this reason, the connecting sections V1, V2 of immediately adjacent tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 to 7.n are designed in such a way that only exactly one and therefore positionally correct arrangement of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 to 7.n is possible relative to each other.

[0060] In the Figures 3 to 6 In various sectional views, tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1, 7.3 are shown in the area of ​​their connection sections V1, V2 in an unconnected and in a connected state.

[0061] To achieve a positive-locking connection in the circumferential direction of the tarpaulin tensioning device 7, the connecting sections V1 and V2 each have a non-circular cross-section. In the illustrated embodiment, connecting section V1 is a recess with a square cross-section provided in the tarpaulin tensioning element 7.1, and a corresponding connecting section V2 is a square square formed on the tarpaulin tensioning element 7.2. The two connecting sections V1 and V2 are designed to create a plug-in connection between the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 and 7.2 in their longitudinal direction.

[0062] In other possible embodiments, the connecting sections V1 and V2 can have other non-circular cross-sections to create the positive-locking connection in the circumferential direction. The cross-section can have any conceivable non-circular shape, for example, an oval shape, a polygonal shape, an elliptical shape, etc.

[0063] To achieve the correct positional connection of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1, 7.2, a positioning element P2 is arranged or formed on the connection section V2 of the tarpaulin tensioning element 7.2, and a positioning structure P1 complementary to the positioning element P2 is arranged or formed on the connection section V1 of the tarpaulin tensioning element 7.1.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning element P2 projects outwards or inwards from the associated connecting section V2 at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction z of the tarpaulin tensioning device 7 and is, for example, web-shaped. The positioning structure P1 is a recess formed in the associated connecting section V1, in which the positioning element P2 can be guided when the connecting section V2 is inserted into the connecting section V1. In embodiments not shown in detail, the positioning structure P1 and the positioning element P2 can also have other suitable shapes.

[0065] For example, the positioning structure P1 is a recess introduced into a lateral surface of the associated connecting section V1, which completely penetrates the lateral surface section by section, wherein the lateral surface in the connected state of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1 to 7.n forms part of a visible side of the tarpaulin tensioning device 7.

[0066] To further secure the connection of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1, 7.2 in the longitudinal direction z of the tarpaulin tensioning device 7, in another possible embodiment of the tarpaulin tensioning device 6, the connecting section V2 of the tarpaulin tensioning element 7.2 comprises at least one retaining element H2, which is spring-mounted perpendicular to the longitudinal axis z of the tarpaulin tensioning device 7 and which, for example, has a spherical segment. The connecting section V1 of the further tarpaulin tensioning element 7.1 has at least one retaining structure H1 that is complementary to the at least one retaining element H2, wherein, in a connected state of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1, 7.2, the retaining element H2 is positively locked to the retaining structure H1 in the longitudinal direction z of the tarpaulin tensioning device 7. Thus, a possible movement of the tarpaulin tensioning elements 7.1, 7.2 in the longitudinal direction z relative to each other is achieved.

[0067] In exemplary embodiments not shown in detail, the retaining element H2 and the retaining structure H1 can also have any other suitable shape.

[0068] In exemplary embodiments not shown in detail, the holding element H2 and the positioning element P2 can be designed as a common component and the holding structure H1 and the positioning structure P1 as a common structure, i.e. as the same structure.

[0069] In order to connect the respective tarpaulin tensioning element 7.1 to 7.n with the tensioning handle and / or the tensioning device, the tensioning handle and / or the tensioning device also have, in an embodiment not shown in detail, a connecting section corresponding to a connecting section V1, V2 of a tarpaulin tensioning element 7.1 to 7.n to be coupled, so that the tarpaulin tensioning device 7 can be rotated about its longitudinal axis z by means of the tensioning handle and / or the tensioning device. REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0070] 1 Commercial vehicle 2 Tractor unit 3 Semi-trailer 4 Tarpaulin body 4.1 Front wall 4.2 Rear wall 4.3 Side wall 4.4 Floor 4.5 Roof 5 Tarpaulin 5.1 Upper tarpaulin section 5.2 Lower tarpaulin section 5.3 Front tarpaulin section 5.4 Rear tarpaulin section 6 Tarpaulin tensioning device 7 Tarpaulin tensioning device 7.1 to 7.n Tarpaulin tensioning element B1 to BnFastening structure H1Retaining structure H2Retaining element h, h'Height P1Positioning structure P2Positioning element V1, V2Connecting section xTransverse direction zVertical direction; Longitudinal direction of the tarpaulin tensioning device

Claims

1. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) for a commercial vehicle (1), having - a front wall (4.1), - a rear wall (4.2), - two side walls (4.3), - a floor (4.4) and - a roof (4.5) which extends between the front wall (4.1), the rear wall (4.2) and the side walls (4.3), the height (h, h') of which above the floor (4.4) being variably adjustable, - at least one tarpaulin (5) which forms at least in portions the front wall (4.1), the rear wall (4.2) and / or at least one of the side walls (4.3), wherein the tarpaulin (5) by way of an upper tarpaulin portion (5.1) is disposed on the roof (4.5) so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction of the tarpaulin superstructure (4), - at least one tarpaulin tensioning device (6) which has a tubular and / or bar-shaped tarpaulin tensioning means (7) and which is fastened to one end of the tarpaulin (5) and provided for tensioning the tarpaulin (5) in a closed state in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction of the tarpaulin superstructure (4), wherein - the tarpaulin tensioning means (7) is formed in multi-part fashion by a plurality of tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n) which are disposed behind one another in the longitudinal direction (z) of the tarpaulin tensioning means (7) and are connectable or connected to one another, and - the tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n), by means of connection portions (V1, V2), are connectable or connected to one another in a form-fitting manner in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal direction (z) of the tarpaulin tensioning means (7), - at least one positioning element (P2) is arranged or formed on the connection portion (V2) of a tarpaulin tensioning element (7.1 to 7.n), - disposed or formed on the connection portion (V1) of a further tarpaulin tensioning element (7.1 to 7.n) provided for connecting to the tarpaulin tensioning element (7.1 to 7.n) is at least one positioning structure (P1) which is complementary to the at least one positioning element (P2), - the at least one positioning element (P2) and the at least one positioning structure (P1) are disposed and formed in such a manner that the two tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n) are connectable to one another in exactly one relative position to one another in order to generate the form-fitting connection in the circumferential direction, and - for tensioning, the tarpaulin (5) is able to be wound in the circumferential direction about the tarpaulin tensioning means (7) of the tarpaulin tensioning device (6), characterized in that when the height (h') of the roof (4.5) is reduced, a connection between at least two tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n) is separated.

2. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the positioning element (P2) protrudes outwards or inwards from the associated connection portion (V2) at least substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction (z) of the tarpaulin tensioning means (7).

3. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the positioning structure (P1) is a recess incorporated into the associated connection portion (V1).

4. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the positioning structure (P1) is a recess which is incorporated into a shell surface of the associated connection portion (V1) and in portions completely penetrates the shell surface, and - the shell surface in the connected state of the tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n) forms a part of a visible side of the tarpaulin tensioning means (7).

5. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the connection portion (V2) of a tarpaulin tensioning element (7.1 to 7.n) comprises at least one holding element (H2), - the connection portion (V1) of the further tarpaulin tensioning element (7.1 to 7.n) has at least one holding structure (H1), and - in a connected state of the tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n), the holding element (H2) is in the longitudinal direction (z) of the tarpaulin tensioning means (7) connected in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner to the holding structure (H1).

6. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to Claim 5, characterized in that the holding element (H2) is resiliently mounted perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction (z) of the tarpaulin tensioning means (7) and in the connected state of the tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n) is in the longitudinal direction (z) of the tarpaulin tensioning means (7) connected in a form-fitting manner to the holding structure (H1) formed so as to be complementary to the at least one holding element (H2) .

7. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to Claim 5 or 6, characterized in that - the holding element (H2) and the positioning element (P2) are a common component, and / or - the holding structure (H1) and the positioning structure (P1) are a common structure.

8. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to one of Claims 5 to 7, characterized in that portions of the holding element (H2) and the holding structure (H1) that are provided for mutual engagement are formed as a spherical portion.

9. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a manually drivable tensioning handle and / or a motor-drivable tensioning means, wherein - the tensioning handle and / or the tensioning means have a connection portion corresponding to a connection portion (V1, V2) of a tarpaulin tensioning element (7.1 to 7.n) to be coupled, and - the tarpaulin tensioning means (7) is rotatable about its longitudinal axis by means of the tensioning handle and / or the tensioning means.

10. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n) each have a fastening structure (B1 to Bn) for fastening the tarpaulin (5).

11. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the maximum height (h) of the roof (4.5), the tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n) are connected to one another in the longitudinal direction (z) of the tarpaulin tensioning means (7).

12. Tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tarpaulin (5) in at least one region, which is provided for the disposal of a connection portion (V1, V2) of two tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n), has an interruption of a fastening structure for fastening to the fastening structure (B1 to Bn) of the tarpaulin tensioning elements (7.1 to 7.n).

13. Commercial vehicle (1) comprising at least one tarpaulin superstructure (4) according to one of the preceding claims.