Road finisher with lighting

Abstract

The road paver (1) comprises a material hopper (7) for receiving the paving material, a screed (11) for compacting the paving material, a main operator station (13), a subgrade lighting system (57), and a control unit (45). The main operator station (13) includes an operator platform (55) and a seat unit (51) with a seat (19) for an operator. The seat 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). The subgrade lighting system (57) is configured to illuminate the subgrade. The control unit (45) is configured to automatically activate the subgrade lighting system (57) when the seat unit (51) is moved into the second position.

Description

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

[0002] From EP 3 214 223 A1, a road paver for laying a road surface is known, comprising a material hopper located at the front (in the direction of travel) for receiving the paving material and a screed located at the rear (in the direction of travel) for compacting the paving material. A workstation for an operator is provided on the paver's cab. The cab is centrally located and elevated on the paver and includes a roof to protect the operator from the elements. A control panel with operating elements is provided for controlling the paver's working components. The operating elements can be operated by an operator seated in the cab. Cab lighting is provided for illumination. The cab lighting is mounted on a support beam of the roof and shines downwards into the operator's area on the cab.

[0003] The inventors recognized that this type of cab lighting can have certain disadvantages when used on night construction sites. Due to the positioning and orientation of the cab lighting, workers or other people in the vicinity of the asphalt paver can be blinded. It can also dazzle passing motorists. The operator in the cab is directly illuminated by the cab lighting and is therefore highly visible from the outside. This can make the operator feel observed and unable to concentrate on their tasks. Furthermore, the positioning and orientation of the cab lighting can result in significant differences in brightness between the cab and the surrounding area of ​​the asphalt paver.The operator's eyes can adapt to the brightness on the operator's cab, which reduces their visibility in darker areas around the paver. This can impair the operator's ability to monitor the paving process. Furthermore, impairments can occur if, for example, the operator cannot clearly see the movement of people in the vicinity of the paver.

[0004] EP 2 578 748 B1 discloses a road paver with an external control station located behind the 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 the housing of an operating panel of the external control station to illuminate a section of the ground surface located in front of, behind, and / or below the external control station, thus enabling the detection of obstacles on the travel path.

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

[0006] From EP 2 650 197 B1, a road paver according to the preamble of claim 1 is known. The road paver comprises a driver's platform and an operator's seat which is pivotable 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 platform. In the second working position, however, the operator's seat is pivoted outwards so that it projects beyond a lateral boundary of the driver's platform and is oriented obliquely relative to the direction of travel.

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

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

[0009] According to an example not claimed independently, a road paver is provided, comprising a material hopper for receiving the paving material, a screed for compacting the paving material, and a main operator's platform. The main operator's platform provides an operating position for an operator on the road paver. The main operator's platform includes a floor area. The road paver includes a lighting unit. The lighting unit is positioned no more than 140 cm higher than the floor area of ​​the main operator's platform in any vertical direction. The lighting unit is positioned such that at least 60 percent of the light output emitted by the lighting unit during operation falls on the floor area of ​​the main operator's platform.

[0010] Due to the mounting height of no more than 140 cm above the floor of the main operator's platform, an operator on the main platform of the paver is generally not illuminated from above. This reduces the operator's visibility from outside the paver, particularly on night construction sites, and thus improves operator comfort. The mounting height of no more than 140 cm above the floor of the main operator's platform also reduces the likelihood of the operator looking directly into the light and being blinded. This applies to both standing and seated operators. Furthermore, the direct visibility of the light from outside the paver is reduced due to the mounting height of no more than 140 cm above the floor of the main operator's platform.This reduces the likelihood of workers or other people, especially drivers, being blinded in the vicinity of the road paver.

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

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

[0013] The main operator station is preferably located on the towing vehicle of the asphalt paver. The main operator station can be positioned centrally and / or elevated on the towing vehicle of the asphalt paver. The main operator station can include an operating platform.

[0014] The main operator station may have a roof to protect the operator from the elements. The main operator station may be open (not enclosed like a cabin) or enclosed like a cabin. The main operator 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 produce visible light. The light sources can be electric. For example, they can be LEDs, incandescent lamps, or gas discharge lamps. LEDs are preferred due to their low energy consumption and long lifespan. In particular, the light sources can be in the form of an LED strip, preferably extending along a transverse direction (perpendicular to the installation direction).

[0016] The requirement that the lighting unit is not more than 140 cm higher than the floor of the main control station in the vertical direction can, in particular, mean that a light-emitting surface through which light provided by the lighting unit exits the lighting unit is not more than 140 cm higher than the floor. The requirement that the lighting unit is not more than 140 cm higher than the floor of the main control station in the vertical direction can, in particular, mean that a light-emitting illuminant of the lighting unit is not more than 140 cm higher than the floor of the main control station in the vertical direction.

[0017] The floor of the main control station can be at least partially made of metal. A metal surface reflects a comparatively high proportion of light, so that the light emitted by the lighting unit onto the floor of the main control station can still contribute to illuminating the station even after reflection. It would also be conceivable for the floor of the main control station to be at least partially covered by a floor mat, such as a rubber mat, which can improve the operator's footing.

[0018] As explained, the lighting unit is positioned no more than 140 cm higher than the floor of the main control station in any vertical direction. According to some embodiments, the lighting unit is positioned 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 of the main control station in any 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 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 of the main control station.

[0020] The main emission direction of the lighting unit can be inclined downwards relative to a horizontal plane. A main emission direction inclined downwards relative to a horizontal plane makes glare for the operator at the main control station unlikely, since under normal conditions the operator will not look down into the lighting unit along the main emission direction if the lighting unit is no more than 140 cm higher than the floor of the main control station. The main emission direction of the lighting unit can be the direction in which the highest luminous intensity is emitted. The main emission direction of the lighting unit can be located at least substantially centrally within a emission volume of the lighting unit.Preferably, the main direction of emission of the lighting unit is inclined downwards by 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 relative to a horizontal plane.

[0021] The road paver can include an opaque upper shield positioned above the lighting unit, which shields the lighting unit from at least one viewing direction from above. The opaque upper cover can 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 protects the lighting unit from at least one horizontal viewing direction. Shielding from a horizontal viewing direction can prevent glare for people or road users near the paver. The horizontal viewing direction can be parallel to the paver's direction of travel. The horizontal viewing direction can be perpendicular to the paver's direction of travel. The horizontal viewing direction can have a component parallel to the paver's direction of travel and a component perpendicular to the paver's direction of travel.

[0023] The main operator station can have a control panel with controls for operating the asphalt paver's functions. The lighting unit can be mounted below the control panel. If the lighting unit is mounted below the control panel, it 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 operator station. The lighting unit can utilize otherwise unused space below the control panel.

[0024] The main operating station includes a seat for one operator. Specifically, an operator seated in the seat can operate the control panel's controls. An imaginary linear connection between the upper end of the seat back and the lighting unit can pass through the control panel or through a structure located beneath the control panel, such as a control panel bracket or a control panel guide. The control panel or the structure beneath it can obstruct the operator's direct view of the lighting unit, thus preventing glare. The upper end of the seat back can be defined by a seat back main body. The upper end of the seat back can also be designed as the upper end of an optional headrest.

[0025] The lighting unit can be mounted on the underside of a component of the asphalt 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 the asphalt paver's control panel in a specific direction. The panel guide can, for example, allow the control panel located at the main operator station to be moved perpendicular to the paving direction.

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

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

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

[0029] The paver can include a brightness sensor, and its control system can be configured to adjust the brightness of the lighting unit based on the sensor's output. For example, the paver's control system can regulate the lighting unit's brightness to a predefined range or value based on the brightness sensor's output. The brightness sensor allows for adequate brightness to be achieved without operator intervention.

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

[0031] The control panel or the structure provided beneath it can prevent a seated operator from looking directly into the lighting unit and being blinded by it. The control panel or the structure provided beneath it can shield the lighting unit. The control panel or the structure provided beneath it can prevent an area of ​​the main operator station located above the control panel from being excessively illuminated.

[0032] The structure provided beneath the control panel can, for example, be a bracket for the control panel or a guide for the control panel. The guide can allow the control panel to be moved in a direction that may be perpendicular to the installation direction.

[0033] Preferably, the main beam direction of the lighting unit is directed either forward or backward relative to the paver's direction of travel. A forward-directed main beam direction prevents people behind the paver from being directly blinded by the lighting unit. A rearward-directed main beam direction prevents people in front of the paver from being directly blinded by the lighting unit. The fact that the main beam direction of the lighting unit is directed forward or backward relative to the paver's direction of travel does not preclude the main beam direction from also being inclined relative to a horizontal plane. The main beam direction of the lighting unit could also be directed vertically downward. This also effectively prevents people in the vicinity of the paver from being blinded.

[0034] The 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 by, 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 at approximately 90 degrees.

[0035] The lighting unit can be attached to the control panel. In particular, the lighting unit can be attached to the bottom of the control panel.

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

[0037] According to another example, which is not claimed independently, a road paver is provided for laying a road surface on a subgrade. The road paver comprises a material hopper for receiving the paving material, a screed for compacting the paving material, a main operator's station, and subgrade lighting. The main operator's station has an operating platform and a seat unit with a seat for one operator. The seat unit is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the seat is located at least substantially within the width of the operating platform. The width of the operating platform refers here to its extension in a transverse direction perpendicular to the paving direction of travel, i.e., to the left and right when viewed in the paving direction. In the second position, the seat projects laterally beyond the operating platform. The subgrade lighting is attached to the seat unit.The Planum lighting is configured to illuminate the Planum in the second position of the seating unit.

[0038] The adjustable seat unit allows the operator's seating position to be adapted to the requirements of the specific installation situation. In the first position, the operator has good access to the controls on the main control panel. In this position, the operator has a good view forward in the direction of paving. In the second position, extending laterally beyond the operating platform, the operator has an improved view of the subgrade to the side of the paver. Essentially, the operator can look directly downwards, forwards and downwards, or backwards to the side of the paver, thus gaining an improved view of the edges of the laid pavement.

[0039] The surface lighting, when the operator's seat is in the second position, makes it easier to monitor processes on the subgrade, thus enabling improved and more responsive control of the paving process, especially on nighttime construction sites. Because the surface lighting is attached to the seat, it moves with the seat when it is moved into the second position. This allows the lighting to be optimally positioned to illuminate the surface within the operator's field of vision. When the seat is moved back to the first position, the lighting also moves with it and is then relatively well protected from dirt and damage, particularly within the width of the operator platform.

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

[0041] The surface lighting can be mounted on the underside of the seating unit. From this position, the surface lighting can illuminate the surface directly and efficiently. Mounting the surface lighting on the underside of the seating unit reduces the risk of people in the vicinity of the asphalt paver or other road users being blinded by the lighting.

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

[0043] The seat unit can be pivoted around a vertical axis between the first and second positions. The seat unit can also be slid between the first and second positions. Hybrid forms are also conceivable, in which movement of the seat unit between the first and second positions includes both pivoting, particularly around a vertical axis, and translational movement.

[0044] In its first position, the seat can be oriented at least substantially in the direction of travel of the asphalt paver. This gives the operator sitting in the seat an optimal view in that direction.

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

[0046] The main beam direction of the road 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 road surface lighting achieves direct and efficient illumination of the road surface. It also reduces glare for other road users.

[0047] The asphalt paver can include a control system 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 when they want to view the subgrade to the side of the paver. Manual activation of the subgrade lighting is no longer necessary. The control system can detect when the seat unit is moved to the second position and activate the subgrade lighting accordingly.

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

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

[0050] According to one aspect, the invention relates to a road paver for laying a road surface on a subgrade. The road paver comprises a material hopper for receiving the paving material, a screed for compacting the paving material, a main operator station, subgrade lighting, and a control system. The main operator station has an operating platform and a seat unit with a seat for an operator. The seat unit is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the seat is located at least substantially within one width of the operating platform. In the second position, the seat projects laterally beyond the operating platform. The subgrade lighting is configured to illuminate the subgrade. The control system is configured to automatically activate the subgrade lighting when the seat unit is moved into the second position.In the second position of the seat unit, the operator has an improved view of the subgrade. It can be assumed that the operator will want to view the subgrade and monitor it for better control of the paving process when the seat unit is moved into the second position. The automatic activation of the subgrade lighting when the seat unit is moved into the second position facilitates observation of the subgrade by illuminating it. Manual activation of the subgrade lighting by the operator is not required.

[0051] The surface lighting can be arranged to illuminate the surface at a point visible to the operator when seated in the second position. In particular, the surface lighting can illuminate a working area of ​​the screed when the seat is in the second position.

[0052] The surface lighting can be attached, for example, to the seating unit, to the chassis of the paver, to the roof of the main operator's station, or to another component of the paver. The surface lighting can also be mounted on the side of the paver.

[0053] Preferably, the control system is configured to automatically deactivate the platform lighting when the seat unit is moved into its first position. Manual deactivation of the platform lighting is therefore unnecessary.

[0054] Preferably, the road paver includes a sensor configured to detect the position of the seating unit. The control system can then regulate the surface lighting based on the sensor's output. The sensor can directly detect the position of the seating unit, for example, by sensing a component of the unit. Alternatively, indirect detection of the seating unit's position is also conceivable, for example, by the sensor reacting to the activation of a movement mechanism within the seating unit.

[0055] The movement of the seat unit between the first and second positions can be a pivoting motion around a vertical axis. The movement of the seat unit between the first and second positions can also be a translational movement. Hybrid forms are also conceivable, in which the movement of the seat unit between the first and second positions includes both a pivoting motion, particularly around a vertical axis, and a translational movement.

[0056] The paver's control system can be configured to adjust the illuminated area lit by the subgrade lighting based on the screed width. For example, the control system could adjust the position and / or size of the illuminated area depending on the screed width. The screed width can be provided to the control system either by user input or by detecting a screed configuration. The illuminated area can be adjusted, for example, by changing the brightness of a lighting unit in the subgrade lighting system or by switching one or more lighting elements of the subgrade lighting system on or off.

[0057] The main beam direction of the underlayment lighting can be adjusted, particularly depending on the screed width. This can be done automatically via a control unit or manually by the operator. The control unit can be configured to adjust the light intensity and / or the main beam direction of the underlayment lighting based on the screed width.

[0058] Features, embodiments or advantages described with respect to one aspect of the invention or one of the disclosed examples can be transferred to and combined with the other aspects of the invention or the other examples.

[0059] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to embodiments and the figures. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic side view of a road paver according to one embodiment; Fig. 2 a schematic perspective view of a work area for an operator on the main operator platform of a road paver according to one embodiment; Fig. 3 a schematic sectional view through the main operator platform of a road paver according to one embodiment with lighting of the main operator platform; Fig. 4 a schematic perspective view of a rear area of ​​a road paver from a top oblique angle according to one embodiment with a swiveling seat unit and subgrade lighting; and Fig. 5 a schematic perspective view of the in Fig. 4 The rear section of the road paver is shown from a low angle.

[0060] Fig. 1Figure 1 shows a road paver 1 according to one embodiment. The road paver 1 comprises a tractor unit 3, on which a material hopper 7 for receiving paving material is provided at the front, relative to one paving direction 5 of the road paver 1. Behind the tractor unit 3, a screed 11 for compacting the paving material is pulled by means of drawbars 9. A main operator platform 13 is provided on the tractor unit 3. The main operator platform 13 provides an elevated operating position for an operator on the road paver 1. From the main operator platform 13, the operator has a view of the area surrounding the road paver 1 in all directions. The main operator platform 13 has a roof 15 to protect the operator from the elements. The main operator platform 13 includes a floor surface 17 on which the operator can stand. The floor surface 17 can, for example, be designed, at least partially, as a metal surface.The floor surface 17 can also be formed, at least partially, by a support, such as a rubber mat or similar material. The main operating station 13 includes a seat 19 for the operator. Furthermore, a control panel 21 with operating elements for controlling functions of the asphalt paver 1 is provided on the main operating station 13. The control panel 21 can, for example, include operable buttons or switches. An operator seated on the seat 19 can operate the operating elements of the control panel 21. In the embodiment shown, an external operating station 23 is also provided on the screed 11.

[0061] As in Fig. 2As shown, the main operating station 13 in the illustrated embodiment comprises two seats 19, which are spaced apart from each other with respect to a horizontal transverse direction 25 perpendicular to the installation direction 5. Depending on the preferred viewing point for the specific installation situation, the operator can sit on either of the two seats 19. If, for example, the operator wants to observe a right-hand edge of the roadway as seen in the installation direction 5 during installation, the operator can advantageously sit on the right-hand seat 19. In the illustrated embodiment, the control panel 21 is slidably mounted on 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 mount the control panel 21 fixedly or movable in front of seat 19, for example by means of a bracket.

[0062] Fig. 3 schematically shows 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 control panel guide 27 extends in the transverse direction 25 in front of the seat 19 with respect to the installation direction 5. The control panel 21 is located in the Fig. 3 The situation depicted is in front of the seat 19 (not shown) and is therefore not visible in the figure. The control panel 21 is slidably mounted in guide rails 29 of the panel guide 27 along the transverse direction 25. The control panel 21 essentially rests on top of the panel guide 27.

[0063] As from Fig. 3As can be seen, a lighting unit 31 is attached to the bottom of the console guide 27. In the illustrated embodiment, the lighting unit 31 is designed as an LED strip which extends along the bottom of the console guide 27 in the transverse direction 25. Preferably, the LED strip extends at least substantially along the entire length of the console guide 27 in the transverse direction 25.

[0064] The lighting unit 31 serves to illuminate the main operating station 13. In particular, if the paver 1 is to be operated at dusk or at night, the lighting unit 31 can be switched on to facilitate the operator's operation of the paver 1 from the main operating station 13. Mounting the lighting unit 31 on the underside of the control panel 27 results in a relatively low mounting height of the lighting unit 31 above the floor surface 17 of the main operating station 13. The lighting unit 31 is positioned no more than 140 cm higher than the floor surface 17 of the main operating station 13 in any vertical direction.According to some embodiments, the lighting unit 31 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 17 of the main operating station 13 in the vertical direction.

[0065] 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 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.

[0066] A main emission direction 33 of the lighting unit 31 is inclined downwards relative to a horizontal plane. In the illustrated embodiment, the main emission 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 emission direction 33 relative to the horizontal plane can be selected by appropriately mounting the lighting unit 31.

[0067] By mounting the lighting unit 31 at a relatively low height above the floor surface 17, inclined downwards relative to a horizontal plane, indirect lighting of the main control station 13 is generated from below.

[0068] An imaginary linear connecting line 37 between the upper end of a seat backrest 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 unintentionally look directly into the lighting unit 31, which could cause the operator to be blinded.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the control panel 27 and the control panel 21 itself form an opaque upper shield that protects the lighting unit 31 from being viewed from above. A lateral end plate 41 of the control panel 27 forms an opaque side shield that protects the lighting unit 31 from being viewed horizontally, thus preventing glare for persons in the vicinity of the road paver 1.

[0070] Preferably, the luminous intensity and / or the light color of the lighting unit 31 is individually adjustable, for example via controls on the control panel 21. The asphalt paver 1 can include a brightness sensor 43, which in the illustrated embodiment is located in the area of ​​the seat 19. A control unit 45 of the asphalt paver 1 can be configured to adjust the luminous intensity of the lighting unit 31 depending on a sensor output from the brightness sensor 43. For example, the control unit 45 can control the lighting unit 31 based on the sensor output to regulate the brightness in the area of ​​the brightness sensor 43 to a predetermined range or to a predetermined value.

[0071] The lighting unit 31 can contain other light sources instead of or in addition to the LED strip, such as one or more incandescent lamps or one or more gas discharge lamps.

[0072] 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. Figure 2 are both

[0073] Seat units 51 are shown in a first position. In their first position, seat unit 51 is essentially oriented in the paving direction 5 of the road paver 1. An operator seated on 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, in the first position of the seat unit 51, is located at least substantially or completely within the width of an operating platform 55 of the main operating station 13. 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 project partially beyond the operating platform 55. However, the main part of the seat 19, in the first position of the seat unit 51, is located within the width of the operating platform 55. In particular, a seat surface of the seat 19, in the first position of the seat unit 51, can be located within the width of the operating platform 55.

[0074] According to embodiments, at least one of the seat units 51 can be moved from the first position to a second position. Figure 4Figure 1 shows a situation in which both seat units 51 have been moved into 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 seat surface of the seat 19 can project laterally beyond the operating platform 55 of the main operator 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 asphalt paver 1 to the side of the asphalt 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 slidable between the first position and the second position. Hybrid 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 translational movement.

[0076] According to embodiments, the road paver 1 includes a subgrade lighting system 57. In the embodiment according to Figure 4 The subgrade lighting 57 is mounted laterally on the chassis of the road paver 1 and illuminates the subgrade in a working area 59 of the paving screed 11.

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

[0078] The control unit 45 can 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 can have a sensor 61 that detects the position of the seat unit 51. Based on an output from the sensor 61, the controller 45 can activate or deactivate the subgrade lighting 57.

[0080] The controller 45 can take the output of the brightness sensor 42 into account when controlling the surface lighting 57. For example, if the brightness sensor 43 detects a brightness level 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 level 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 emission direction of the Planum illumination 57 can be 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.

[0082] The main beam direction of the leveling light 57 can be adjusted. For example, the main beam direction of the leveling light 57 can be adjusted automatically via the control unit 45 or manually by the operator. The control unit 45 can be configured to adjust the illuminated area of ​​the leveling light 57 depending on the screed installation width. For example, the control unit 45 could adjust the position and / or size of the illuminated area depending on the screed installation width. The screed installation width can be provided to the control unit 45 by user input or by detection of a screed configuration. The illuminated area can be adjusted, for example, by changing the brightness of a light unit of the leveling light 57 or by switching one or more light elements of the leveling light 57 on or off.

[0083] Figure 5Figure 1 shows an alternative embodiment in which the planing light 57 is attached to the seat unit 51. Specifically, the planing light 57 is attached to the bottom of the console 53 of the seat unit 51. Due to its positioning, the planing light 57 can illuminate the working area 59 of the screed 11 particularly efficiently in the second position of the seat unit 51. In the illustrated embodiment, the console 53 of the seat unit 51 includes a shield 63, which protects the planing light 57 from horizontal light.

[0084] The line of sight is shielded, in the embodiment shown from the front with respect to the installation direction 5. This makes it particularly efficient to avoid dazzling people in the area of ​​the road paver 1 or other road users.

[0085] As described, the subgrade lighting 57 can be automatically controlled based on the position of the seating unit 51. Features relating to the illumination of the main operator station 13 by the lighting unit 31 have been described. Furthermore, features relating to the illumination of the subgrade in the area of ​​the paver 1 by the subgrade lighting 57 have been described. The lighting unit 31 and the subgrade lighting 57 could be installed together on a paver 1. However, it is also conceivable to use 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 in that a subgrade lighting (57) configured to illuminate the subgrade; and a control device (45) which is configured to activate the subgrade lighting (57) in an automated manner when the seat unit (51) is moved to the second position.

2. Road finisher according to claim 1, wherein the control device (45) is configured to deactivate the subgrade lighting (57) in an automated manner when the seat unit (51) is moved to the first position.

3. Road finisher according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the road finisher (1) further comprises a sensor (61) configured to detect a position of the seat unit (51), and wherein the control device (45) controls the subgrade lighting (57) based on an output of the sensor (61).

4. Road finisher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (45) is configured to adjust a luminosity and / or a main direction of emittance of the subgrade lighting (57) in dependence of a paving width of the screed (11).

5. Road finisher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the subgrade lighting (57) is mounted to the seat unit (51) and is configured in the second position of the seat unit (51) to illuminate the subgrade.

6. Road finisher according to claim 5, 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).

7. Road finisher according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the seat (19) in the first position of the seat unit (51) is at least substantially oriented in the paving travel direction (5) of the road finisher (1).

8. Road finisher according to any one of the preceding claims, 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.

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