Road finisher with lighting

Abstract

The road paver (1) comprises a material hopper (7) for receiving paving material, a screed (11) for compacting paving material, a main operator station (13) with an operator platform (55) and a seating unit (51) with a seat (19) for an operator, wherein the seating unit (51) is movable between a first position in which the seat (19) is located at least substantially within one width of the operator platform (55) and a second position in which the seat (19) projects laterally beyond the operator platform (55), and a subgrade lighting (57) which is attached to the seating unit (51) and is configured to illuminate the subgrade in the second position of the seating unit (51).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a road paver with a main control station which provides an operating location for an operator on the road paver.

[0002] EP 3 214 223 A1 discloses a road paver for paving a road surface, which comprises a material hopper located at the front in the paving direction for receiving paving material and a paving screed located at the rear in the paving direction for compacting the paving material. A workstation for an operator is provided on a driver's cab of the road paver. The driver's cab is located in a central and elevated position on the road paver and includes a roof to protect the operator from the elements. A control panel with operating elements is provided for controlling the working components of the road paver. The operating elements can be operated by an operator sitting in a driver's seat. Driver's cab lighting is provided to illuminate the driver's cab. The driver's cab lighting is located on a supporting beam of the roof and shines from above into the area where the operator sits on the driver's cab.

[0003] The inventors recognized that this type of cab lighting can have certain disadvantages when used on night-time construction sites. Due to the positioning and orientation of the cab lighting, workers or other persons in the vicinity of the road paver may be dazzled. It may also dazzle passing road users. The operator in the cab is directly illuminated by the cab lighting and is therefore particularly visible from outside. This can lead to the operator feeling observed and unable to concentrate calmly on their tasks. Due to the positioning and orientation of the cab lighting, there can be considerable differences in brightness between the cab and the surroundings of the road paver.The operator's eyes may adapt to the brightness in the cab, reducing the operator's vision in darker areas around the paver. This can impair the operator's ability to monitor the paving process. Impairments can also occur if, for example, the operator cannot clearly see the movement of people in the area around the paver.

[0004] EP 2 578 748 B1 discloses a road paver with an external control station located behind the paving screed. The external control station is operated by a person who moves along with the road paver on foot. A lighting device is integrated into a housing of a control panel of the external control station to illuminate a field of the ground located in front of, behind, and / or below the external control station, thus enabling the detection of an obstacle on the roadway.

[0005] EP 3 149 245 B1 describes a screed assembly for a road paver, on which a workstation for an operator is mounted. The workstation comprises a base plate on which the operator can stand. The workstation includes a lighting unit primarily for illuminating the workstation itself and the outer area of the working width.

[0006] EP 2 650 197 B1 discloses a road paver according to the preamble of claim 1. The road paver comprises a driver's cab platform and an operator's seat, which can be pivoted between a first working position and a second working position. In the first working position, the seat is oriented approximately forward in the direction of travel of the road paver and is located within one width of the driver's cab platform. In the second working position, however, the operator's seat is pivoted outward so that it extends beyond a lateral boundary of the driver's cab platform and is oriented diagonally to the direction of travel.

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide improved lighting for a road paver.

[0008] This object is solved by the subject matter of claim 1. The dependent claims specify advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0009] According to a non-independently claimed example, a road paver is provided comprising a material hopper for receiving paving material, a paving screed for compacting paving material, and a main control station. The main control station provides an operating location for an operator on the road paver. The main control station comprises a floor surface. The road paver comprises a lighting unit. The lighting unit is arranged no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface of the main control station with respect to a vertical direction. The lighting unit is arranged such that at least 60 percent of the light output emitted by the lighting unit during operation falls onto the floor surface of the main control station.

[0010] Because the lighting unit is mounted at a height of no more than 140 cm above the floor of the main control station, an operator on the main control station of the road paver is generally not illuminated from above. This reduces the operator's visibility from outside the road paver, particularly on night-time construction sites, and thus improves operating comfort. Mounting the lighting unit at a height of no more than 140 cm above the floor of the main control station also reduces the likelihood of the operator looking directly into the lighting unit and being dazzled. This applies to both a standing and a seated operator. Because the lighting unit is mounted at a height of no more than 140 cm above the floor of the main control station, the direct visibility of the lighting unit from outside the road paver is reduced.This reduces the likelihood of workers or other persons, especially drivers, in the vicinity of the road paver being dazzled.

[0011] Since at least 60 percent of the light emitted by the lighting unit during operation falls on the floor of the main control station, the floor of the main control station is particularly well illuminated. This makes it easier for the operator to find their way around the main control station, even in the dark. In particular, illuminating the floor reduces the likelihood of the operator making a mistake. The portion of light emitted onto the floor of the main control station is perceived as indirect lighting of the main control station and thus presents a reduced risk of glare. By reflecting the light emitted onto the floor of the main control station, diffuse, i.e. non-glare, lighting of the main control station can be achieved.

[0012] The road paver preferably includes a towing vehicle. The material hopper can be mounted on the towing vehicle. The paving screed can be pulled behind the towing vehicle.

[0013] The main control station is preferably located on the road paver's towing vehicle. The main control station can be located in a central and / or elevated position on the road paver's towing vehicle. The main control station can have an operating platform.

[0014] The main control station may have a roof to protect the operator from the elements. The main control station may be an open control station (not enclosed like a cabin) or a closed control station like a cabin. The main control station may include fall protection, for example, in the form of a railing.

[0015] The lighting unit can comprise one or more light sources that generate visible light. The light sources can be electrical light sources. The light sources can be LEDs, incandescent lamps, or gas discharge lamps, for example. LEDs are preferred due to their low energy consumption and long service life. In particular, the light sources can be designed in the form of an LED strip, which preferably extends in a transverse direction (transverse to the installation direction of travel).

[0016] The fact that the lighting unit is arranged no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface of the main control station in the vertical direction can mean, in particular, that a light exit surface through which light provided by the lighting unit leaves the lighting unit is arranged no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface. The fact that the lighting unit is arranged no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface of the main control station in the vertical direction can mean, in particular, that a light-generating illuminant of the lighting unit is arranged no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface of the main control station in the vertical direction.

[0017] The floor surface of the main control station can be at least partially formed as a metal surface. A comparatively high proportion of light is reflected by a metal surface, so that the light emitted by the lighting unit onto the floor surface of the main control station can still contribute to the illumination of the main control station even after being reflected by the floor surface. It would also be conceivable for the floor surface of the main control station to be formed, at least in part, by a floor mat, such as a rubber mat, which can improve the operator's surefootedness on the main control station.

[0018] As explained, the lighting unit is arranged no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface of the main control station in a vertical direction. According to some embodiments, the lighting unit is arranged no more than 130 cm, or no more than 120 cm, or no more than 110 cm, or no more than 100 cm, or no more than 90 cm, or no more than 80 cm, or no more than 70 cm, or no more than 60 cm higher than the floor surface of the main control station in the vertical direction.

[0019] As explained, the lighting unit is arranged such that at least 60 percent of the light output emitted by the lighting unit during operation falls onto the floor surface of the main control station. According to some embodiments, the lighting unit is arranged such that at least 70 percent, or at least 75 percent, or at least 80 percent, or at least 90 percent of the light output emitted by the lighting unit during operation falls onto the floor surface of the main control station.

[0020] A main beam direction of the lighting unit can be inclined downwards relative to a horizontal plane. A main beam direction inclined downwards relative to a horizontal plane ensures that glare for the operator at the main control station is unlikely, since under normal conditions the operator will not look into the lighting unit from below along the main beam direction if the lighting unit is arranged no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface of the main control station. The main beam direction of the lighting unit can be the direction in which the highest light output is emitted. The main beam direction of the lighting unit can be at least substantially centrally located within a beam volume of the lighting unit.Preferably, the main radiation direction of the lighting unit is inclined downwards by at least 10 degrees, or by at least 20 degrees, or by at least 30 degrees, or by at least 40 degrees, or by at least 50 degrees, or by at least 60 degrees, or by at least 70 degrees, or by at least 80 degrees, or by approximately 90 degrees relative to a horizontal plane.

[0021] The road paver may include an opaque upper shield arranged above the lighting unit, shielding the lighting unit from at least one viewing direction from above. The opaque upper cover may prevent the operator from looking directly into the lighting unit from above and being blinded.

[0022] The road paver can include an opaque side shield that shields the lighting unit from at least one horizontal viewing direction. Shielding from a horizontal viewing direction can prevent glare for persons or road users in the vicinity of the road paver. The horizontal viewing direction can be parallel to the paving direction of travel of the road paver. The horizontal viewing direction can be perpendicular to the paving direction of travel of the road paver. The horizontal viewing direction can have a component parallel to the paving direction of travel of the road paver and a component perpendicular to the paving direction of travel of the road paver.

[0023] The main control station can have a control panel with controls for controlling functions of the road paver. The lighting unit can be mounted below the control panel. If the lighting unit is mounted below the control panel, the lighting unit is shielded from above by the control panel. An operator working at the control panel cannot look directly into the lighting unit. A lighting unit mounted below the control panel can provide indirect lighting for the main control station. The lighting unit can utilize otherwise unused space below the control panel.

[0024] The main control station can have a seat for an operator. In particular, an operator sitting on the seat can operate control elements of the control panel. An imaginary, linear connecting line between an upper end of a seat back of the seat and the lighting unit can run through the control panel or through a structure provided below the control panel, such as a holder for the control panel or a panel guide for the control panel. The control panel or the structure provided below the control panel can block an operator sitting on the seat from a direct view of the lighting unit and thus prevent the operator from being dazzled. The upper end of the seat back can be defined by a seat back main body. The upper end of the seat back can be designed as the upper end of an optionally provided headrest.

[0025] The lighting unit can be mounted on the underside of a component of the road paver. For example, the lighting unit can be mounted on the underside of the control panel. Alternatively, the lighting unit can be mounted on the underside of a bracket for the control panel or a panel guide for moving a control panel of the road paver in a direction of travel. The panel guide can, for example, enable the control panel provided at the main control station to be moved transversely to the paving direction.

[0026] Preferably, the floor surface of the main operating station is a walking surface, and / or a step surface, and / or a standing surface for an operator of the road paver.

[0027] The luminous intensity of the lighting unit can be individually adjusted. Adjustable luminous intensity allows the lighting to be adapted to the specific construction site environment or the operator's preferences. The luminous intensity can be adjusted, for example, via the control panel. The luminous intensity can be adjusted, for example, by switching individual lamps on or off in the lighting unit, or by dimming one or more lamps in the lighting unit.

[0028] The light color of the lighting unit can be individually adjusted. Adjustable light color allows the lighting to be adapted to the specific construction site environment or the operator's preferences. The light color can be adjusted, for example, via the control panel.

[0029] The road paver can include a brightness sensor, and a controller of the road paver can be configured to adjust the luminous intensity of the lighting unit depending on a sensor output of the brightness sensor. For example, the controller of the road paver can regulate the luminous intensity of the lighting unit within a predefined range or to a predefined value based on a sensor output of the brightness sensor. The brightness sensor can be used to ensure that an appropriate level of brightness is achieved without active intervention by the operator.

[0030] According to another example not independently claimed, a road paver is provided with a material hopper for receiving paving material, a paving screed for compacting paving material, and a main control station. The main control station has a seat for an operator and a control panel with controls for controlling functions of the road paver. The road paver includes a lighting unit. An imaginary linear connecting line between an upper end of a seat back of the operator's seat and the lighting unit runs through the control panel or through a structure provided below the control panel.

[0031] The control panel or the structure provided below the control panel can prevent a seated operator from looking directly into the lighting unit and thus being dazzled. The control panel or the structure provided below the control panel can shield the lighting unit. The control panel or the structure provided below the control panel can prevent an area of the main control station located above the control panel from being over-illuminated.

[0032] The structure provided beneath the control panel can, for example, be a support for the control panel or a panel guide. The panel guide can allow the control panel to be moved in a direction of travel, which can, in particular, be transverse to the paving direction.

[0033] Preferably, a main beam direction of the lighting unit is directed forwards or backwards with respect to a paving direction of the road paver. A forward-directed main beam direction means that people behind the road paver cannot be directly dazzled by the lighting unit. A rearward-directed main beam direction means that people in front of the road paver cannot be directly dazzled by the lighting unit. The fact that the main beam direction of the lighting unit is directed forwards or backwards with respect to the paving direction of travel does not preclude the main beam direction from also being inclined with respect to a horizontal plane. The main beam direction of the lighting unit could also be directed vertically downwards. This also effectively prevents people in the vicinity of the road paver from being dazzled.

[0034] A main beam direction of the lighting unit can be inclined downwards relative to a horizontal plane. The main beam direction can be inclined relative to a horizontal plane, for example, by at least 10 degrees, or by at least 20 degrees, or by at least 30 degrees, or by at least 40 degrees, or by at least 50 degrees, or by at least 60 degrees, or by at least 70 degrees, or by at least 80 degrees, or by approximately 90 degrees.

[0035] The lighting unit can be mounted on the control panel. The lighting unit can be mounted, in particular, at the bottom of the control panel.

[0036] The road paver may have a control panel guide for moving the control panel in a direction of travel. The lighting unit may be mounted on the underside of the control panel guide.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, a road paver for paving a road surface on a subgrade is provided. The road paver comprises a material hopper for receiving paving material, a paving screed for compacting paving material, a main control station, and subgrade lighting. The main control station has an operating platform and a seating unit with a seat for an operator. The seating unit is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the seat is located at least substantially within a width of the operating platform. The width of the operating platform refers to an extension in a transverse direction of the road paver that is perpendicular to the paving direction of travel, i.e. to the left and right as viewed in the paving direction of travel. In the second position, the seat projects laterally beyond the operating platform. The subgrade lighting is attached to the seating unit.The Planum lighting is configured to illuminate the Planum in the second position of the seat unit.

[0038] The mobility of the seat unit allows the operator's seating position to be adapted to the requirements of the respective paving situation. With the seat unit in the first position, the operator sitting on the seat has good access to the controls on the main control station. With the seat unit in the first position, the operator sitting on the seat has a good view forward in the direction of paving. With the seat unit in the second position, i.e. protrudes laterally beyond the operator platform, the operator sitting on the seat has an improved view of the subgrade to the side of the road paver. The operator can essentially look directly downwards to the side of the road paver, or forwards, downwards, or backwards, and thus has an improved view of the edge area of the paved road surface.

[0039] Illuminating the subgrade with the subgrade lighting makes it easier for the operator to follow activities on the ground when the seat unit is in the second position, thus enabling the operator to improve and adapt control of the paving process, particularly on night-time construction sites. As the subgrade lighting is attached to the seat unit, it moves with the seat when the seat unit is moved to the second position. This allows the subgrade lighting to be optimally positioned to illuminate the subgrade within the field of vision of an operator sitting on the seat. When the seat unit is moved back to the first position, the subgrade lighting also moves and is then relatively well protected against dirt and damage, particularly within the width of the operating platform.

[0040] Preferably, the surface lighting is located within the width of the operating platform when the seating unit is in the first position. Preferably, the surface lighting is located to the side outside the operating platform when the seating unit is in the second position.

[0041] The subgrade lighting can be mounted on the underside of the seat unit. From the underside of the seat unit, the subgrade lighting can illuminate the subgrade directly and efficiently. Mounting the subgrade lighting on the underside of the seat unit reduces the risk of people in the vicinity of the paver or other road users being dazzled by the subgrade lighting.

[0042] The seat unit may comprise a console supporting the seat. The console may, for example, have a plate on which the seat is mounted. The mobility of the seat unit may be provided by the mobility of the console. The surface lighting may, in particular, be mounted on an underside of the console.

[0043] The seat unit can be pivoted about a vertical axis between the first position and the second position. The seat unit can be displaced between the first position and the second position. Mixed forms are also conceivable, in which a movement of the seat unit between the first position and the second position comprises both pivoting, in particular about a vertical axis, and a translational movement.

[0044] In the first position of the seat unit, the seat can be aligned at least substantially in the paving direction of the road paver. This provides an operator sitting on the seat with optimal visibility in the paving direction.

[0045] In the second position of the seat unit, the seat can be pivoted relative to the installation direction.

[0046] A main beam direction of the surface lighting is preferably inclined downwards by at least 30 degrees, or at least 45 degrees, or at least 60 degrees, or at least 80 degrees, or substantially 90 degrees relative to a horizontal direction. A downward-inclined main beam direction of the surface lighting achieves direct and efficient illumination of the surface. Furthermore, glare for other road users is reduced.

[0047] The paver can include a controller configured to automatically activate the subgrade lighting when the seat unit is moved to the second position. In this case, the operator only needs to move the seat unit to the second position if they want to view the subgrade to the side of the paver. Manually activating the subgrade lighting is no longer necessary. The controller can detect movement of the seat unit to the second position and automatically activate the subgrade lighting based on this.

[0048] Alternatively, the subgrade lighting could be activated manually or activated or deactivated together with the machine lighting.

[0049] The main beam direction of the surface lighting can be adjustable. The main beam direction of the surface lighting can be adjusted automatically via a control system or manually by the operator.

[0050] According to another example not independently claimed, a road paver is provided for paving a road surface on a subgrade. The road paver comprises a material hopper for receiving paving material, a paving screed for compacting paving material, a main control station, subgrade lighting, and a controller. The main control station has an operator platform and a seating unit with a seat for an operator. The seating unit is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the seat is located at least substantially within a width of the operator platform. In the second position, the seat projects laterally beyond the operator platform. The subgrade lighting is configured to illuminate the subgrade. The controller is configured to automatically activate the subgrade lighting when the seating unit is moved to the second position.

[0051] In the second position of the seat unit, an operator sitting on the seat has an improved view of the subgrade. It is assumed that the operator will want to see the subgrade and observe it for better control of the paving process when the seat unit is moved to the second position. By automatically activating the subgrade lighting when the seat unit is moved to the second position, observing the subgrade is made easier by automatically illuminating the subgrade when the seat unit is moved to the second position. Manual activation of the subgrade lighting by the operator is not required.

[0052] The subgrade lighting can be arranged such that it illuminates the subgrade at a location visible to the operator when sitting on the seat with the seat unit in the second position. In particular, the subgrade lighting can illuminate a working area of the paving screed when the seat unit is in the second position.

[0053] The surface lighting can be mounted, for example, on the seating unit, on a paver chassis, on the roof of the main operator's station, or on another component of the paver. The surface lighting can be mounted on the side of the paver.

[0054] Preferably, the control unit is configured to automatically deactivate the surface lighting when the seat unit is moved to the first position. Manual deactivation of the surface lighting is thus eliminated.

[0055] Preferably, the road paver includes a sensor configured to detect a position of the seat unit. The controller can control the subgrade lighting based on an output from the sensor. The sensor can detect the position of the seat unit directly, for example, by detecting a component of the seat unit. Alternatively, indirect detection of the position of the seat unit would also be conceivable, for example, by the sensor reacting to an actuation of a movement mechanism of the seat unit.

[0056] The movement of the seat unit between the first position and the second position can be a pivoting movement about a vertical axis. The movement of the seat unit between the first position and the second position can be a translational movement. Mixed forms are also conceivable, in which the movement of the seat unit between the first position and the second position includes both a pivoting movement, in particular about a vertical axis, and a translational movement.

[0057] The control system of the road paver can be configured to adjust the illuminated area covered by the subgrade lighting depending on the screed paving width. For example, the control system could adjust the position and / or size of the illuminated area depending on the screed paving width. The screed paving width can be provided to the control system via user input or by detecting a screed configuration. The illuminated area can be adjusted, for example, by changing the luminous intensity of a light unit of the subgrade lighting or by switching one or more light elements of the subgrade lighting on or off.

[0058] The main beam direction of the subgrade lighting can be adjustable, particularly depending on the screed paving width. The main beam direction of the subgrade lighting can be adjusted, for example, automatically via a control system or manually by the operator. The control system can be configured to adjust the luminous intensity and / or the main beam direction of the subgrade lighting depending on the paving width of the screed.

[0059] Features, embodiments or advantages described with respect to one of the aspects of the invention or one of the examples can be transferred to and combined with the other aspects of the invention and the other examples.

[0060] The invention will be further explained below using embodiments with reference to the figures. In the figures: Fig. 1 a schematic side view of a road paver according to an embodiment; Fig. 2a schematic perspective view of a rest area for an operator on the main control station of a road paver according to one embodiment; Fig. 3 a schematic sectional view through the main control station of a road paver according to an embodiment with lighting of the main control station; Fig. 4 a schematic perspective view of a rear area of a road paver from above according to an example with a pivotable seat unit and a subgrade lighting; and Fig. 5 a schematic perspective view of a rear area of a road paver from below according to an embodiment with a pivotable seat unit and a subgrade lighting.

[0061] Fig. 1shows a road paver 1 according to one embodiment. The road paver 1 comprises a towing vehicle 3, on which a material hopper 7 for receiving paving material is provided at the front with respect to a paving direction of travel 5 of the road paver 1. A paving screed 11 for compacting the paving material is pulled behind the towing vehicle 3 by means of towbars 9. A main control station 13 is provided on the towing vehicle 3. The main control station 13 provides an elevated operating location for an operator on the road paver 1. From the main control station 13, the operator can see the surroundings of the road paver 1 in all directions. The main control station 13 has a roof 15 to protect the operator from the effects of the weather. The main control station 13 comprises a floor surface 17 on which the operator can stand. The floor surface 17 can, for example, be designed as a metal surface, at least in part.The floor surface 17 can also be formed, at least in part, by a support, such as a rubber mat or the like. The main control station 13 comprises a seat 19 for the operator. Furthermore, a control panel 21 with control elements for controlling functions of the road paver 1 is provided on the main control station 13. The control panel 21 can, for example, comprise operable buttons or switches. An operator sitting on the seat 19 can operate the control elements of the control panel 21. In the embodiment shown, an external control station 23 is also provided on the paving screed 11.

[0062] As in Fig. 2As shown, the main control station 13 in the illustrated embodiment comprises two seats 19 which are spaced apart from one another with respect to a horizontal transverse direction 25 perpendicular to the paving direction of travel 5. Depending on the preferred viewing point for the specific paving situation, the operator can sit on one of the two seats 19. If, for example, the operator wishes to observe a right-hand edge of the roadway as seen in the paving direction of travel 5 during paving, the operator can advantageously sit on the right-hand seat 19. In the illustrated embodiment, the control panel 21 is slidably attached to a panel guide 27. The panel guide 27 extends along the transverse direction 25 from the left seat 19 to the right seat 19. By sliding the control panel 21 along the panel guide 27, the control panel 21 can be moved in front of the seat 19 on which the operator is currently sitting.Alternatively, it would of course also be conceivable to provide only one seat 19 and to provide the control panel 21 fixed or movable in front of the seat 19, for example by means of a holder.

[0063] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a section (section AA in Fig. 2 ) through the main control station 13 with a view along the transverse direction 25. As in Fig. 3 As can be seen, the console guide 27 extends in front of the seat 19 in the transverse direction 25 with respect to the installation direction 5. The control console 21 is located in the Fig. 3 In the illustrated situation, it is located in front of the seat 19 (not shown) and is therefore not visible in the figure. The control panel 21 is mounted in guide rails 29 of the panel guide 27 so that it can be moved along the transverse direction 25. The control panel 21 is essentially located on top of the panel guide 27.

[0064] As from Fig. 3As can be seen, a lighting unit 31 is mounted at the bottom of the desk guide 27. In the illustrated embodiment, the lighting unit 31 is designed as an LED strip that extends at the bottom of the desk guide 27 along the desk guide 27 in the transverse direction 25. Preferably, the LED strip extends at least substantially along the entire length of the desk guide 27 in the transverse direction 25.

[0065] The lighting unit 31 serves to illuminate the main control station 13. In particular, when the road paver 1 is to be operated at dusk or at night, the lighting unit 31 can be switched on to make it easier for the operator to operate the road paver 1 from the main control station 13. By attaching the lighting unit 31 to the underside of the console guide 27, a relatively low mounting height of the lighting unit 31 above the floor surface 17 of the main control station 13 results. The lighting unit 31 is arranged no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface 17 of the main control station 13 in a vertical direction.According to some embodiments, the lighting unit 31 is arranged with respect to the vertical direction even not more than 130 cm, or not more than 120 cm, or not more than 110 cm, or not more than 100 cm, or not more than 90 cm, or not more than 80 cm, or not more than 70 cm, or not more than 60 cm higher than the floor surface 17 of the main control station 13.

[0066] The lighting unit 31 is arranged such that at least 60 percent of the light output emitted by the lighting unit 31 during operation falls onto the floor surface 17 of the main control station 13. According to some embodiments, the lighting unit 31 is arranged such that even at least 70 percent, or at least 75 percent, or at least 80 percent, or at least 90 percent of the light output emitted by the lighting unit 31 during operation falls onto the floor surface 17 of the main control station 13.

[0067] A main radiation direction 33 of the lighting unit 31 is inclined downwards relative to a horizontal plane. In the illustrated embodiment, the main radiation direction 33 of the lighting unit 31 is inclined downwards relative to the horizontal plane by an angle 35. The angle 35 can be, for example, at least 10 degrees, or at least 20 degrees, or at least 30 degrees, or at least 40 degrees, or at least 50 degrees, or at least 60 degrees, or at least 70 degrees, or at least 80 degrees, or approximately 90 degrees. The angle of inclination 35 of the main radiation direction 33 relative to the horizontal plane can be selected by suitably mounting the lighting unit 31.

[0068] By mounting the lighting unit 31 at a downward inclination relative to a horizontal plane at a comparatively low height above the floor surface 17, indirect lighting of the main control station 13 is generated from below.

[0069] An imaginary linear connecting line 37 between an upper end of a seat back 39 of the seat 19 and the lighting unit 31 runs through the control panel 21 or, as in the present case, through a structure provided below the control panel 21 (panel guide 27). Thus, an operator sitting on the seat 19 cannot inadvertently look directly into the lighting unit 31, which could result in the operator being blinded.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the console guide 27 and the control console 21 itself constitute an opaque upper shield that shields the lighting unit 31 from a viewing direction from above. A lateral end plate 41 of the console guide 27 constitutes an opaque side shield that shields the lighting unit 31 from a horizontal viewing direction and thus prevents glare for persons in the vicinity of the road paver 1.

[0071] Preferably, the luminous intensity and / or the light color of the lighting unit 31 can be individually adjusted, for example via control elements on the control panel 21. The road paver 1 can comprise a brightness sensor 43, which in the embodiment shown is mounted in the region of the seat 19. A controller 45 of the road paver 1 can be configured to adjust the luminous intensity of the lighting unit 31 depending on a sensor output of the brightness sensor 43. For example, the controller 45 can control the lighting unit 31 based on the sensor output in order to regulate the brightness in the region of the brightness sensor 43 within a predetermined range or to regulate it to a predetermined value.

[0072] Instead of the LED strip or in addition to the LED strip, the lighting unit 31 may also contain other lighting means, such as one or more incandescent lamps or one or more gas discharge lamps.

[0073] As in Figure 2 As shown, the seats 19 are each part of a seat unit 51. The seat units 51 comprise, in addition to the respective seat 19, a console 53 on which the seat 19 is mounted. The console 53 can, for example, have a plate that supports the seat 19. In Figure 2 Both seat units 51 are shown in a first position. In its first position, the seat unit 51 is essentially aligned in the paving direction 5 of the road paver 1. An operator sitting on the seat 19 looks forward along the paving direction 5 of the road paver 1. As shown in Figure 2As shown, the seat 19 of a seat unit 51 is located at least substantially or entirely within a width of an operating platform 55 of the main control station 13 in the first position of the seat unit 51. This does not necessarily preclude individual elements of the seat 19 from projecting laterally (with respect to the transverse direction 25) beyond the operating platform 55. For example, an armrest of the seat 19 could partially project beyond the operating platform 55. However, the main part of the seat 19 is located within the width of the operating platform 55 in the first position of the seat unit 51. In particular, a seat surface of the seat 19 can be located within the width of the operating platform 55 in the first position of the seat unit 51.

[0074] According to the invention, at least one of the seat units 51 can be moved from the first position to a second position. Figure 4shows a situation in which both seat units 51 have been moved to their second position. In the second position of a seat unit 51, the corresponding seat 19 projects laterally beyond the operating platform 55. In particular, in the second position, at least one-third, or at least two-thirds, or at least three-quarters of the seating surface of the seat 19 can project laterally beyond the operating platform 55 of the main control station 13 with respect to the transverse direction 25. In the second position of the seat unit 51, an operator sitting on the respective seat 19 has an improved view of the subgrade in the area of the road paver 1 to the side of the road paver 1.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the seat unit 51 is pivoted about a vertical axis between the first position and the second position. Alternatively, the seat unit 51 could be displaceable between the first position and the second position. Mixed forms are also conceivable, in which the movement of the seat unit 51 between the first position and the second position includes both pivoting, in particular about a vertical axis, and a translational movement.

[0076] According to the invention, the road paver 1 comprises a subgrade lighting 57. In the example according to Figure 4 The subgrade lighting 57 is mounted on the side of the chassis of the road paver 1 and illuminates the subgrade in a working area 59 of the paving screed 11.

[0077] According to embodiments, the controller 45 of the road paver 1 is configured to automatically activate the subgrade lighting 57 when the seat unit 51 is moved to the second position. This ensures that the working area 59 of the paving screed 11 is illuminated and thus clearly visible when the seat unit 51 is in the second position.

[0078] The controller 45 may also be configured to automatically deactivate the planum lighting 57 when the seat unit 51 is moved back to the first position.

[0079] The road paver 1 may include a sensor 61 that detects the position of the seat unit 51. Based on an output of the sensor 61, the controller 45 may activate or deactivate the subgrade lighting 57.

[0080] The controller 45 can consider the output of the brightness sensor 42 when controlling the surface lighting 57. For example, if the brightness sensor 43 detects a brightness below a certain threshold, the controller 45 can control the surface lighting 57, as described, based on the position of the seat unit 51. If the brightness sensor 43 detects a brightness value above the certain threshold, the controller 45 can deactivate the surface lighting 57 or leave it deactivated regardless of the position of the seat unit 51.

[0081] A main radiation direction of the planum lighting 57 can be inclined downwards by at least 30 degrees, or by at least 45 degrees, or by at least 60 degrees, or by at least 80 degrees, or by substantially 90 degrees relative to a horizontal direction.

[0082] The main beam direction of the subgrade lighting 57 can be adjustable. The main beam direction of the subgrade lighting 57 can be adjusted, for example, automatically via the controller 45 or manually by the operator. The controller 45 can be configured to adjust the illumination area illuminated by the subgrade lighting 57 depending on the screed paving width. For example, the controller 45 could adjust the position and / or size of the illumination area depending on the screed paving width. The screed paving width can be provided to the controller 45 via user input or by detecting a screed configuration. The illuminated illumination area can be adjusted, for example, by changing the luminous intensity of a lighting unit of the subgrade lighting 57 or by switching one or more lighting elements of the subgrade lighting 57 on or off.

[0083] Figure 5shows an embodiment according to the invention in which the subgrade lighting 57 is attached to the seat unit 51. In particular, the subgrade lighting 57 is attached to the bottom of the console 53 of the seat unit 51. In the second position of the seat unit 51, the subgrade lighting 57 can illuminate the working area 59 of the paving screed 11 particularly efficiently due to its positioning. In the illustrated embodiment, the console 53 of the seat unit 51 comprises a shield 63, which shields the subgrade lighting 57 from a horizontal viewing direction, in the illustrated embodiment from the front with respect to the paving direction of travel 5. This makes it particularly efficient to prevent dazzling of persons in the area of the road paver 1 or other road users.

[0084] As described, the surface lighting 57 can be automatically controlled based on the position of the seat unit 51. However, this is not mandatory. Alternatively, a switch could be provided to activate or deactivate the surface lighting 57.

[0085] Features relating to the illumination of the main control station 13 by the lighting unit 31 were described. Furthermore, features relating to the illumination of the subgrade in the area of the road paver 1 by the subgrade lighting 57 were described. The lighting unit 31 and the subgrade lighting 57 could be provided together on a road paver 1. However, it is also conceivable to provide only the subgrade lighting 57 for illuminating the subgrade.

Claims

1. Road finisher (1) for paving a road surface on a subgrade, comprising: a material hopper (7) for receiving paving material; a screed (11) for compacting paving material; and a main control stand (13) with an operating platform (55) and a seat unit (51) with a seat (19) for an operator, wherein the seat unit (51) is movable between a first position in which the seat (19) is present at least substantially within a width of the operating platform (55) and a second position in which the seat (19) projects laterally beyond the operating platform (55); characterized by a subgrade lighting (57) which is mounted to the seat unit (51) and configured to illuminate the subgrade in the second position of the seat unit (51).

2. Road finisher according to claim 1, wherein the subgrade lighting (57) is mounted to an underside of the seat unit (51), in particular to an underside of a console (53) carrying the seat (19).

3. Road finisher according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the seat (19) is at least substantially oriented along the paving travel direction (5) of the road finisher (1) in the first position of the seat unit (51).

4. Road finisher according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a main direction of emittance of the subgrade lighting (57) is inclined downward with respect to a horizontal direction by at least 30 degrees, or by at least 45 degrees, or by at least 60 degrees, or by at least 80 degrees, or by substantially 90 degrees.

5. Road finisher according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the road finisher (1) comprises a control device (45) that is configured to activate the subgrade lighting (57) in an automated manner when the seat unit (51) is moved to the second position.

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