Device for maneuvering a motor vehicle trailer

Abstract

The invention relates to an assistance device (26) for maneuvering a trailer (16) to be coupled to a motor vehicle. The assistance device (26) comprises: a mounting bracket (30); a trailer chassis; a steering system (32) with a steering wheel (34); a steering arm (36) for the steering wheel, the steering arm including control means (38) for a drive motor (40) of the trailer (16); and a lifting module (42) for the steering wheel between a deployed position and a retracted position. The steering system (32) includes a first pivot joint (44) connected to the steering arm so that it moves vertically between a first position and a second position. The lifting module includes a mechanical link (46) configured to transmit a vertical movement from the steering arm (36) to the steering wheel (34). Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Device for maneuvering a motor vehicle trailer

[0001] The invention relates to the field of motor vehicle trailers. The invention deals with the maneuvers of moving and coupling a motor vehicle trailer. The invention concerns a device for maneuvering a motor vehicle trailer. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle trailer.

[0002] When a trailer is heavily loaded and needs to be manually coupled to a towing vehicle, two adults are generally required. This is especially true when navigating a driveway ramp or incline. Two adults have sufficient strength to maneuver the trailer safely and, in particular, to avoid colliding with the vehicle. This situation arises particularly with a trailer equipped with an external power supply, commonly referred to as a "power bank." Such a trailer typically weighs several hundred kilograms.

[0003] When the trailer is sufficiently close to the vehicle, a user must operate a worm gear jack to lower the coupling head onto the ball. The user must then operate the jack to retract the jockey wheel to a safe, raised position. A reverse operation allows the jockey wheel to be lowered, and then the trailer hitch to be uncoupled. When the ground is sloping, the user must hold the coupling head with one hand and operate the jack with the other. A certain amount of dexterity is therefore required.

[0004] US patent 20080308325 describes a tow dolly intended for moving wheeled loads such as boat trailers, camping caravans, and aircraft where significant towing forces may be required. The tow dolly has a set of wheels with a drive gear arranged between closely spaced treads. The tow dolly has a narrow wheel width, providing easy steering and a compact size for storage. The tow dolly has a motor with a pinion gear. The dolly has a steering arm extending perpendicularly to the direction of drive, allowing the operator to move away from the path of movement of the load while providing adequate leverage for steering the dolly. The dolly features an alternative configuration with a power source located on the dolly itself, allowing operation independent of plugs or extension cords.Each wheel is mounted. and lowered using a vertical jack which is equipped with a top handle. The top handle operates a worm gear mechanism.

[0005] US patent 4860841A describes a motorized device for facilitating the maneuvering of trailers after they have been detached from the towing vehicle. It includes a shaft attached to the trailer's drawbar and adjustable in height. At least one wheel is mounted at the end of the shaft, with the wheel's axle perpendicular to the shaft. At least one drive device is also provided for rotating the wheel about its axis, and a pivoting device for pivoting the wheel. Coupling remains a complex operation.

[0006] The invention aims to address at least one of the problems or drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to simplify a motor vehicle trailer drive system. The invention also aims to optimize the ergonomics, simplicity, and safety of a motor vehicle trailer drive system.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the invention provides an assistance device for maneuvering a trailer intended to be coupled to a motor vehicle; the assistance device comprising: a mounting bracket intended to be fixed to a trailer chassis; a steering system with a steering wheel; a steering arm configured to control the direction of movement of the steering wheel, the steering arm comprising means for controlling the trailer drive motor; a lifting module capable of vertically moving the steering wheel between a deployed downward position and a retracted position relative to the mounting bracket; notable in that the steering system comprises a first pivot joint connected to the steering arm, the steering arm being vertically movable, via the first pivot joint, between a first position and a second position;The lifting module includes a mechanical link configured to transmit a vertical movement from the steering arm, between the first and second positions, to the steering wheel in order to move it between the deployed and retracted positions.

[0008] The steering arm also becomes a control lever thanks to the pivot joint. The position of the steering arm allows the trailer to be raised and lowered, which simplifies the entire assistance system, since a single interface allows the trailer to be steered and then coupled to the towing vehicle. In this way, the invention optimizes ergonomics, regardless of the slope of the ground under the trailer. A user can perform several actions with one hand. Furthermore, the invention reduces handling effort, thanks to the length of the lever arm formed by the steering arm.

[0009] Preferably, the mechanical link is a connecting rod with a first end connected to the steering arm.

[0010] Preferably, the assistance device includes a wheel support receiving the steering wheel, the connecting rod including a second end connected to the wheel support.

[0011] Preferably, the steering system comprises a steering column with a top, the steering column being pivotally mounted relative to the mounting support via a second pivot link, the first pivot link being at the top of said steering column.

[0012] Preferably, the control means comprise a handle mounted pivoting relative to the steering arm via a third pivot linkage.

[0013] Preferably, the handle is opposite the mechanical linkage relative to the first pivot linkage.

[0014] Preferably, the third pivot joint is parallel to the first pivot joint.

[0015] Preferably, the assistance device includes a steering arm orientation locking button relative to the first pivot link.

[0016] Preferably, the steering arm comprises a first segment, a second segment separated from the first segment by the first pivot joint and connected to the mechanical link; the first segment being longer than the second segment.

[0017] Preferably, the steering wheel includes a drive motor electrically connected to the control means.

[0018] Preferably, the first pivot joint includes a horizontal pivot axis.

[0019] Preferably, the control means are capable of braking.

[0020] Preferably, the device is a device for assisting in the maneuvering of a trailer.

[0021] Preferably, the assistance device includes a second pivot link with a horizontal pivot axis connecting the handle to the steering arm, the handle being movable relative to the steering arm between a first orientation and a second orientation.

[0022] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a trailer intended to be coupled to a motor vehicle, the trailer comprising: a coupling head intended to be coupled to a coupling ball of the motor vehicle; an axle; an assistance device for maneuvering said trailer, the assistance device being between the axle and the coupling head; remarkable in that the assistance device is in accordance with the invention.

[0023] Preferably, the trailer includes an electric drive battery for the motor vehicle, the electric battery having a capacity of at least 5 kWh; more preferably of at least 50 kWh.

[0024] Preferably, the coupling head includes a safety mechanism configured to hold the coupling ball in the coupling head.

[0025] Preferably; the safety mechanism is coupled to the handle.

[0026] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a trailer intended to be coupled to a motor vehicle and comprising a chassis, an assistance device for maneuvering said trailer; the assistance device comprising: a steering system with a steering wheel; a trailer drive motor; a steering arm configured to control a direction of movement of the steering wheel, the steering arm comprising means for controlling the drive motor; a lifting module capable of vertically moving the steering wheel between a deployed downward position and a retracted position relative to the chassis; notable in that the steering system comprises a first pivot joint connected to the steering arm, the steering arm being vertically movable, via the first pivot joint, between a first position and a second position;The lifting module includes a mechanical link configured to transmit a vertical movement of the steering arm between the first and second positions to the steering wheel in order to move it between the deployed and retracted positions. The assistance device allows for one-handed movement and coupling of the trailer.

[0027] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a coupling comprising a trailer attached to a motor vehicle; remarkable in that the trailer conforms to the invention.

[0028] Each feature introduced by the expression "preferably" given in relation to one of the aspects of the invention applies to all other aspects of the invention.

[0029] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will become clear upon reading the following description, given with reference to the attached figures listed below.

[0030] Fig. 1 is a side view of a trailer attached to a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0031] Fig. 2 shows a trailer with an assistance device for maneuvering it according to the invention, the assistance device being in the deployed configuration.

[0032] Fig. 3 shows a trailer with an assistance device for maneuvering it according to the invention, the assistance device being in the retracted configuration.

[0033] Fig. 4 represents a steering arm of an assistance device for maneuvering a trailer according to the invention.

[0034] In the following description, the term "include" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it permits the presence of other elements in the device assistance or in the trailer to which it relates. It is understood that the term "include" includes the terms "consist of". The terms "external" and "internal" will respectively refer to what is directed outwards and inwards towards the vehicle.

[0035] In this description, the terms "vertical" and "horizontal" are not to be understood in the strict sense of the term. Indeed, they allow an inclination of at most 20°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°, and even more preferably at most 2°; with respect to the strict meaning of these terms.

[0036] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the mounting configuration of the assistance device, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0037] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

[0038] Figure 1 represents a motor vehicle 10, according to an embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle 10 comprises energy storage means and at least one motor (not shown) adapted to drive said motor vehicle 10.

[0039] The motor vehicle 10 comprises a general structure. The general structure forms an outer body, or the main frame of the motor vehicle. The general structure receives a coupling system 12, also referred to as a towing system.

[0040] The coupling system 12 comprises a hook 14 surmounted by a tow ball. The coupling system 12 is suitable for towing a trailer 16 forming an auxiliary vehicle, or towed vehicle; the motor vehicle 10 being the towing vehicle. The trailer 16 has a mass of at least 500 kg; preferably at least 750 kg.

[0041] The trailer 16 comprises an axle 18 with wheels and a coupling head 20. The coupling head 20 is intended to be coupled to the coupling system 12 by being mounted on the tow ball. The trailer 16 further comprises a chassis 22 connecting the coupling head 20 to the axle 18. The chassis 22 forms the load-bearing structure of the trailer 16. The chassis 22 is capable of carrying a load in the trailer 16.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the trailer comprises a single axle.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the trailer 16 includes an electric battery 24. The electric battery 24 is connected to the motor vehicle 10. It is designated as an external electric battery. The electric battery 24 has a capacity of at least 5 kWh; preferably at least 20 kWh; more preferably at least 50 kWh; and even more preferably at least 75 kWh. The battery electric 24 allows to increase the range of the motor vehicle 10 when the latter is electrically driven.

[0044] The trailer 16 is equipped with a maneuvering assistance device 26. The assistance device 26 is located between the axle 18 and the coupling head 20. It is attached to the chassis 22. The assistance device 26 assists in approaching the trailer 16 to the motor vehicle 10 and coupling them when the coupling head 20 is aligned with the tow ball. The assistance device 26 provides physical assistance to a user 28 to safely couple the trailer 16. The assistance device 26 is powered by the electric battery 24.

[0045] The motor vehicle may, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle.

[0046] Figure 2 shows a front part of a trailer 16 with a motor vehicle assistance device 26, according to an embodiment of the invention. The trailer 16 may correspond to that shown in relation to Figure 1.

[0047] The assistance device 26 comprises: a mounting bracket 30 fixed to the chassis 22 of the trailer 16. The chassis 22 comprises several longitudinal members connected to an axle suspension system (not shown) and to the coupling head 20. The coupling head 20 forms an inverted cup, open at the bottom. The mounting bracket 30 comprises mounting holes and / or mounting hooks. It includes, for example, a mounting plate connected to a longitudinal member or cross member of the chassis 22. The chassis 22 defines a front drawbar to which the coupling head 20 is attached.

[0048] The assistance device 26 also includes a steering system 32 with a steering wheel 34; a steering arm 36 configured to control a direction of movement of the steering wheel 34.

[0049] The steering wheel 34 is a wheel which, by its movement around a vertical axis, allows the trailer to follow a path dictated by a user. It is a directional wheel. The steering arm 36 is capable of pivoting about a vertical pivot axis 54 in order to change the orientation of the steering wheel 34 relative to the mounting bracket 30.

[0050] The steering arm 36 is coupled to the steering wheel 34. The steering arm 36 allows the orientation of the tread of the steering wheel 34, and therefore of the trailer 16, to be changed. It changes the orientation of the axis of rotation of the steering wheel 34. The chassis 22 is between the steering arm 36 and the steering wheel 34.

[0051] The steering arm 36 includes control means 38 for a drive motor 40 of the trailer 16. The control means 38 include a handle 60 mounted pivotally relative to the steering arm 36, for example along two axes. The control means 38 are capable of braking the wheels of the axle and / or the steering wheel 34. The drive motor 40 is an electric motor. It is powered by the electric battery 24.

[0052] The handle 60 is capable of rotating on itself in two directions of rotation relative to a rest position; each direction of rotation corresponds to an instruction for the direction of movement of the trailer 16 via the assistance device 26; and therefore via the drive motor 40.

[0053] According to an alternative of the invention, the handle slides along the steering arm in two directions, each direction corresponding to an instruction for the direction of movement of the trailer.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the drive motor 40 is coupled to the steering wheel 34, which facilitates electrical connections. Preferably, the drive motor 40 is housed within the steering wheel 34, in order to improve compactness. It is located in its hub.

[0055] The assistance device 26, in particular the steering system 32, includes a lifting module 42. The lifting module 42 is capable of vertically moving the steering wheel 34 between a position deployed downwards against the ground and a retracted position (not shown) relative to the mounting bracket 30. The retracted position brings the steering wheel 34 away from the ground. It is a safety position, or a driving position where the steering wheel 34 is clear of obstacles on the ground.

[0056] The steering system 32 includes a first pivot joint 44 connected to the steering arm 36. Thanks to the first pivot joint 44, the steering arm 36 is vertically movable between at least one first position and a second position (not shown). The first and second positions are respectively a high position and a low position. The steering arm 36 transmits changes of direction to the steering wheel 34 via the first pivot joint 44.

[0057] The lifting module 42 includes a mechanical link 46 configured to transmit a vertical movement from the steering arm 36 between the first and second positions to the steering wheel 34 in order to move it between the deployed and retracted positions, respectively. Thus, the steering arm 36 acquires a dual function. It allows the trailer 16 to be maneuvered around curves, but also raises and lowers the coupling head 20. Indeed, the steering arm 36 forms a control element that allows the height of the steering wheel 34 to be modulated, thus bringing it into contact with the ground as well as away from it. The assistance device 26 is operated with one hand for all its functions.

[0058] The steering system 32 comprises a steering column 48 with a top 50. The steering column 48 is pivotally mounted relative to the mounting bracket 30 via a second pivot joint 52. The first pivot joint 44 is at summit 50 of said steering column 48. The second pivot joint 52 has a vertical pivot axis 54.

[0059] The steering column 48 comprises a sleeve and a sliding rod inside the sleeve. The sliding rod passes vertically through the sleeve. The sleeve is pivotally mounted relative to the mounting bracket 30. It is vertically fixed relative to the mounting bracket 30. The first pivot joint 44 is at the top of the sleeve. The handle 60 is movable relative to the steering arm 36 between a first and a second orientation.

[0060] The first pivot joint 44 includes a horizontal pivot axis, therefore perpendicular to the vertical pivot axis 54 of the second pivot joint 52.

[0061] The handle 60 is pivotally mounted relative to the steering arm 36 via a third pivot joint 56. The third pivot joint 56 is parallel to the first pivot joint 44. Their axes of pivot are parallel. Thus, the handle 60 can remain substantially horizontal during the operation of the steering arm 36. The handle 60 is opposite the mechanical link 46 with respect to the first pivot joint 44. The first pivot joint 44 is between the handle 60 and the mechanical link 46. This configuration allows the coupling head 20 to be lowered while retaining the handle 60, which improves handling precision and therefore ergonomics.

[0062] The mechanical link 46 passes through the chassis 22. The chassis 22 includes a vertical opening 58 for the mechanical link 46. The mechanical link 46 forms a rigid rod, for example made of metal.

[0063] The assistance device 26 includes a wheel support 62 receiving the steering wheel 34. The wheel support 62 forms, for example, a fork with arms on either side of the steering wheel 34. The wheel support 62 is vertically opposite the steering arm 36. Its orientation, in a horizontal plane, is coupled to that of the steering arm 36.

[0064] According to an alternative of the invention, the drive motor is integrated into a wheel of the trailer axle.

[0065] According to an alternative of the invention, the steering system comprises pivoting steering arms which form a parallelogram articulated with respect to the chassis by means of vertical axis hinges.

[0066] According to an alternative or option of the invention, the steering system comprises several steering wheels.

[0067] According to one option of the invention, the lifting module includes a spring for holding the steering wheel in the deployed or retracted position.

[0068] According to an alternative of the invention, the mechanical link comprises a cable.

[0069] According to one option of the invention, the first pivot link is at the top of the sliding rod and the mechanical link is connected to the sleeve.

[0070] Figure 3 shows a front section of a trailer 16 with a motor vehicle assistance device 26, according to an embodiment of the invention. The trailer 16 may correspond to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 2. The steering arm 36 is in its second position, and the steering wheel 34 is in the retracted position. The handle 60 changes orientation relative to the steering arm 36.

[0071] The mechanical link 46 includes a connecting rod with a first end 64 connected to the steering arm 36. The connecting rod also includes a second end 66 connected to the wheel support 62.

[0072] The steering arm 36 is here tilted downwards. It rotates around the first pivot joint 44. The handle 60 moves closer to the coupling head 20. The sliding rod 70 moves up into the sleeve 72 of the steering column 48. Thus, the steering wheel 34 is pulled upwards, towards its retracted position. Reducing its contact with the ground, the coupling head 20 lowers towards the coupling ball 68 (shown in dashed lines).

[0073] The steering arm 36 is generally straight. It comprises a first segment 74 and a second segment 76 connected to the mechanical link 46. The first pivot joint 44 is located between the first segment 74 and the second segment 76. The segments form sections. The first segment 74 is longer, preferably at least twice as long, as the second segment 76. This arrangement improves the leverage of the steering arm 36. It reduces the force required to lower and raise the trailer 16 on the side of the coupling head 20.

[0074] Figure 4 shows a steering arm 36 of an assistance device 26 for maneuvering a motor vehicle trailer 16, according to an embodiment of the invention. The trailer 16 may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 3.

[0075] The assistance device 26 includes a locking button 78 for the orientation of the steering arm 36. The locking button 78 allows the steering arm 36 to be locked relative to the first pivot joint. Pressing the locking button 78 releases the first pivot joint; when at rest, it locks it. Thus, the steering arm 36 can be held in an intermediate position between the first and second positions, so that the coupling head 20 can remain at a desired height, between the fully extended and fully retracted positions. This feature improves ergonomics. According to one option of the invention, the locking button 78 allows the third pivot joint 56 to be locked, thereby preventing the handle from tilting relative to the steering arm.

[0076] The coupling head 20 includes a safety mechanism 80 configured to retain the coupling ball 68 in the coupling head 20. The safety mechanism 80 includes a pivoting arm between an open position and a closed position, forwards. The safety mechanism 80 is coupled to the handle 60. When the handle 60 is lowered and the steering arm 36 is in its second position, the safety mechanism 80 is locked. Therefore, in this case, when the handle 60 is in line with the steering arm 36, the safety mechanism 80 is locked.

[0077] According to an alternative of the invention, the locking button is arranged on the steering arm, away from the handle.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the steering arm 36 is made of a plastic or composite material. The plastic material may include a thermoplastic or thermosetting material. According to a preferred embodiment, the plastic material is selected from the group comprising polypropylene, polyamide, polyphthalamide, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyamide-imide, polyetherimide, polyarylamide, polyepoxide, unsaturated polyester, vinyl ester, or polyester-vinylester resins. For example, the composite material comprises a matrix of a plastic material as described above with reinforcement. For example, the reinforcement comprises glass or carbon fibers.

[0079] The steering arm 36 comprises at least 10% by weight of recycled plastic material based on the total weight of the plastic material; preferably from 10 to 80% by weight; more preferably from 20 to 60% by weight or from 30 to 40% by weight. The use of recycled plastic material reduces the vehicle's environmental footprint. According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the steering arm comprises metal. Any other material used in the automotive field may be used.

[0080] The invention comprises the combination of all the embodiments illustrated by all the figures.

[0081] Figures 2 to 4 are isometric views. They each respect a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.

Claims

Demands

1. Assistance device (26) for maneuvering a trailer (16) intended to be coupled to a motor vehicle (10); the assistance device (26) comprising: a mounting bracket (30) intended to be attached to a trailer chassis (16); a steering system (32) with a steering wheel (34); a steering arm (36) configured to control a direction of movement of the steering wheel (34), the steering arm (36) comprising control means (38) for the drive motor (40) of the trailer (16); a lifting module (42) capable of vertically moving the steering wheel (34) between a deployed downward position and a retracted position relative to the mounting bracket (30);characterized in that the steering system (32) comprises a first pivot joint (44) connected to the steering arm (36), the steering arm (36) being vertically movable, via the first pivot joint (44), between a first position and a second position; the lifting module (42) comprises a mechanical link (46) configured to transmit a vertical movement from the steering arm (36), between the first position and the second position, to the steering wheel (34) in order to move it between the deployed position and the retracted position.

2. Assistance device (26) according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanical link (46) is a connecting rod with a first end (64) connected to the steering arm (36); preferably, the assistance device (26) comprises a wheel support (62) receiving the steering wheel (34), the connecting rod comprising a second end (66) connected to the wheel support (62).

3. Assistance device (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the steering system (32) comprises a steering column (48) with a top (50), the steering column (48) being pivotally mounted relative to the mounting support (30) via a second pivot link (52), the first pivot link (44) being at the top (50) of said steering column (48).

4. Assistance device (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the control means (38) comprise a handle (60) mounted pivotally relative to the steering arm (36) via a third pivot linkage (56).

5. Assistance device (26) according to claim 4, characterized in that the handle (60) is opposite the mechanical linkage with respect to the first pivot linkage (44); preferably, the third pivot linkage (56) is parallel to the first pivot linkage (44).

6. Assistance device (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the assistance device (26) includes a locking button (78) for orienting the steering arm (36) relative to the first pivot link (44).

7. Assistance device (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the steering arm (36) comprises a first segment (74), a second segment (76) separated from the first segment (74) by the first pivot link (44) and connected to the mechanical link (46); the first segment (74) being longer than the second segment (76).

8. Assistance device (26) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the steering wheel (34) comprises a drive motor (40) electrically connected to the control means (38); preferably, the first pivot link (44) comprises a horizontal pivot axis.

9. Trailer (16) intended to be coupled to a motor vehicle (10), the trailer (16) comprising: a coupling head (20) intended to be coupled to a coupling ball (68) of the motor vehicle (10); an axle (18); an assistance device (26) for maneuvering said trailer (16), the assistance device (26) being between the axle (18) and the coupling head (20); characterized in that the assistance device (26) conforms to any one of claims 1 to 8; preferably, the trailer (16) comprises an electric battery (24) for driving the motor vehicle (10), the electric battery (24) comprising a capacity of at least 5 kWh; more preferably of at least 50 kWh.

10. Trailer (16) according to claim 9, characterized in that the coupling head (20) includes a safety mechanism (80) configured to hold the coupling ball (68) in the coupling head (20).

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