Tire test stand with hexapod assembly

Abstract

The tire test stand (1) includes a frame, a tire holder (3) to which a tire (15) can be attached, a hexapod assembly (5) having six linear drive elements (9), and a rolling surface unit (7) having a rolling surface (21). At least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of a lateral force component (25), at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of a tangential force component (27), and at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of a radial force component (29).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tire test stand. [Background technology]

[0002] Tire test stands are known from the prior art. They typically comprise a frame and a tire holder. A tire having a tread can be mounted in the tire holder so that it can rotate about its axis of rotation. When the tire is rotatably mounted in the tire holder, the tire can be moved to different positions relative to the frame.

[0003] Tire test stands known from the prior art provide a rolling surface unit with a rolling surface that can be moved relative to a frame, the rolling surface of which can also be called a road surrogate, intended to approximately simulate road conditions.

[0004] When the tire is rotatably mounted on the tire holder, the tire can be placed in a contact position where the tread and rolling surface of the tire are in contact, and when the tire and rolling surface are in contact and the rolling surface is moved relative to the tire, the tire can roll on the rolling surface.

[0005] In general, it is desirable to provide a robust, material-saving and resource-conserving tire test stand with optimal movement space for tire testing, in which the tire can be moved during testing, so that the actual chassis kinematics when traveling on a road are particularly well simulated. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a robust, material-saving and resource-conserving tire test stand with an optimal movement space for tire testing, in which the tire can be moved during the test so that the kinematics of a real chassis when traveling on a road are simulated particularly well. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the present invention, the above object is achieved by a tire test stand having the features of claim 1. The tire test stand includes a frame. The tire test stand further includes a tire holder. A tire having a tread can be mounted on the tire holder for rotation about its axis of rotation. The tire test stand further includes a hexapod assembly having six linear drive elements. Each of the six linear drive elements is attached at a first end to the frame and at a second end to the tire holder. The tire test stand includes a rolling surface unit having a rolling surface. The rolling surface can be moved relative to the frame. Furthermore, when the tire is rotatably mounted on the tire holder, the tire can be brought into a contact position by adjusting the linear drive elements of the hexapod assembly. In the contact position, the tread and rolling surface of the tire are in contact. Furthermore, when the tread and rolling surface are in contact and the rolling surface is moved relative to the tire, the tire rolls on the rolling surface. In the initial configuration, a tangent plane on the tread parallel to the axis of rotation and a tangent plane on the rolling surface are identical. Furthermore, in this initial configuration, the tangential velocity of the tread and the tangential velocity of the rolling surface are the same at the point of contact between the tread and the rolling surface. Furthermore, each force acting on the tire can be divided into a lateral force component running parallel to the axis of rotation in the tangential plane, a tangential force component running perpendicular to the lateral force component in the tangential plane, and a radial force component running perpendicular to the tangential plane. Furthermore, the six linear drive elements are arranged in the initial configuration as follows: at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged so that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the lateral force component. Furthermore, the six linear drive elements are arranged in the initial configuration as follows: at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged so that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the tangential force component.Furthermore, the six linear drive elements are arranged in the initial configuration as follows: at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the radial force component.

[0008] The tire test stand includes a frame to which various components of the tire test stand, such as the first ends of each of the six linear drive elements, can be mounted. Additionally, an operating element for an operator of the tire test stand to operate the tire test stand can be mounted as one of the various components to the tire test stand frame.

[0009] The tire test stand further comprises a tire holder, in which a tire having a tread can be mounted so as to be rotatable about its axis of rotation. The tire holder can therefore either have a tire mounted thereon or be unmounted. In particular, as a result of the fact that the tire holder can be moved relative to the frame and thus be in different positions by adjusting the linear drive element, the tire mounted on the tire holder can be moved relative to the frame and thus be in different positions by adjusting the linear drive element.

[0010] The tire test stand further includes a hexapod assembly having six linear drive elements. In particular, the length of each of the six linear drive elements can be adjusted. The hexapod assembly can be referred to as a parallel kinematics system. One advantage of the hexapod assembly is that it can have a high level of rigidity while requiring a relatively small amount of space compared to conventional adjustment units designed as serial kinematics. The hexapod assembly also has the advantage of a high level of adjustment precision compared to conventional adjustment units designed as serial kinematics. In particular, the hexapod assembly can be used to move the tire to different positions, such as the contact position, with greater precision compared to conventional adjustment units designed as serial kinematics. In connection with the present invention, it has surprisingly been found that the hexapod assembly can simulate the kinematics of a vehicle's actual chassis in a test environment better than tire test stands known from the prior art.

[0011] Each of the six linear drive elements is attached to the frame at a first end and to the tire holder at a second end. The six linear drive elements can be described as acting parallel to one another between the frame and the tire holder. The hexapod assembly can therefore be described as having parallel kinematics. In particular, adjustment of the linear drive elements can move the tire holder relative to the frame to different positions. Preferably, each of the six linear drive elements is pivotally attached to the frame at a first end and to the tire holder at a second end. As a result, each linear drive element can be oriented differently by adjusting and pivoting the linear drive element relative to the frame and the tire holder.

[0012] The tire test stand further includes a rolling surface unit having a rolling surface. The rolling surface can be formed by a flat portion of a belt. This belt is partially wrapped around two belts rotatably mounted on the frame. Preferably, the flat belt portion extends along a tangent plane of the belt where a contact point exists between the tread and the flat belt portion when the tire is rotatably mounted on the tire holder and the tire tread and the flat belt portion are in contact. The flatness of the belt portion ensures that the tire can roll on a flat rolling surface. A flat rolling surface formed by a flat belt portion is advantageous, particularly compared to a rolling surface formed by a curved outer circumferential surface of a drum, because the flat belt portion can better simulate a real road, particularly its flat shape, than tire test stands known from the prior art that have a rolling surface formed by the outer circumferential surface of a drum. In particular, it has been found that the rolling resistance of a tire when rolling on a flat belt portion can be significantly reduced compared to a curved rolling surface. Furthermore, the combination of the belt and the deflection pulley provides a space-saving rolling surface compared to the rolling surface of a drum, which is larger in size to reduce curvature. Alternatively, the rolling surface may be a curved rolling surface formed by the inner circumferential surface of a drum rotatably mounted on a frame. The drum is preferably rotatably driven with the aid of a rolling surface drive unit. As a further alternative, the rolling surface may be a curved rolling surface formed by the outer circumferential surface of a drum rotatably mounted on a frame. This drum may also preferably be rotatably driven with the aid of a rolling surface drive unit. By using the rolling surface of a rotatably mounted drum as the rolling surface, it is possible to ensure the provision of a particularly large space for the at least one linear drive element, in particular for the lateral drive element. By providing a particularly large space for the at least one linear drive element, it is in turn possible to ensure the provision of sufficient installation space for a robust design of the at least one linear drive element.

[0013] The rolling surface can be moved relative to the frame, for which purpose it can be driven with the aid of a rolling surface drive unit.

[0014] Furthermore, when a tire is rotatably mounted on the tire holder, the tire can be brought into contact by adjusting the linear drive element of the hexapod assembly. As already explained, in particular as a result of the fact that the tire holder can be moved and placed in different positions relative to the frame by adjusting the linear drive element, the tire mounted on the tire holder can be moved and placed in different positions relative to the frame by adjusting the linear drive element. In particular, the tire can be brought into contact by adjusting the linear drive element of the hexapod assembly.

[0015] In the contact position, the tread and the rolling surface of the tire are in contact. Advantageously, the tire can be brought into additional contact positions in addition to this contact position by adjusting the linear drive elements of the hexapod assembly, so that, for example, the camber of the tire, the skew of the tire, the tire load of the tire can be adjusted, in particular perpendicular to the tangent plane of the rolling surface where the contact point lies between the tread and the rolling surface, and / or the position of the tire relative to the rolling surface, in particular parallel to the tangent plane of the rolling surface where the contact point lies between the tread and the rolling surface, as well as perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the rolling surface in the area of ​​the rolling surface and / or parallel to the direction of rotation of the rolling surface in the area of ​​the rolling surface.

[0016] Furthermore, when the tread and rolling surface are in contact and the rolling surface is moved relative to the tire, the tire rolls on the rolling surface. The rolling surface preferably forms a flat rolling surface on which the tire can roll. Alternatively, the rolling surface may preferably form a curved rolling surface. As already explained, the tire can be brought into additional contact positions in addition to this contact position by adjusting the linear drive elements of the hexapod assembly. Then, as the tire rolls on the rolling surface, the tire can be subjected to different loading conditions as it rolls. For example, as the tire rolls on the rolling surface, the camber of the tire, the skew of the tire, the tire load of the tire can be adjusted, particularly perpendicular to the tangent plane at the rolling surface where the contact point is between the tread and the rolling surface, and / or the position of the tire relative to the rolling surface can be adjusted, particularly parallel to the tangent plane at the rolling surface where the contact point is between the tread and the rolling surface, as well as perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the rolling surface in the area of ​​the rolling surface and / or parallel to the direction of rotation of the rolling surface in the area of ​​the rolling surface.

[0017] In the initial configuration, the tangential plane on the tread parallel to the axis of rotation and the tangential plane on the rolling surface are identical. Furthermore, in this initial configuration, the tangential velocity of the tread and the tangential velocity of the rolling surface are identical at the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface. Preferably, in this initial configuration, the steering angle is zero and the camber angle is also zero. In particular, when the steering angle is not equal to zero and the camber angle is equal to zero, the tangential plane on the tread parallel to the axis of rotation and the tangential plane on the rolling surface remain identical. However, preferably, when the steering angle is not equal to zero and the camber angle is equal to zero, the tangential velocity of the tread and the tangential velocity of the rolling surface are not identical at the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface. In particular, when the steering angle is not equal to zero and the camber angle is equal to zero, the tire test stand assumes a configuration that does not correspond to the initial configuration. Furthermore, in particular, when the camber angle is not equal to zero and the steering angle is equal to zero, the tangent plane on the tread parallel to the axis of rotation and the tangent plane on the rolling surface are not identical. However, preferably, when the camber angle is not equal to zero and the steering angle is equal to zero, the tangential velocity of the tread and the tangential velocity of the rolling surface are identical at the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface. In particular, when the camber angle is not equal to zero and the steering angle is equal to zero, the tire test stand assumes a configuration that does not correspond to the initial configuration. The contact point between the tread and the rolling surface is also referred to as the wheel contact point.

[0018] Furthermore, each force acting on the tire can be divided into a lateral force component running parallel to the axis of rotation in the tangential plane, a tangential force component running perpendicular to the lateral force component in the tangential plane, and a radial force component running perpendicular to the tangential plane. In particular, the lateral, tangential, and radial force components are oriented perpendicular to one another.

[0019] Furthermore, the six linear drive elements are arranged in the initial configuration as follows: at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the lateral force component. At least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements, which is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the lateral force component, can also be referred to as a lateral drive element. The six linear drive elements preferably comprise a lateral drive element.

[0020] Furthermore, the six linear drive elements are arranged in the initial configuration as follows: at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the tangential force component. At least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements, which is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the tangential force component, can also be referred to as a tangential drive element. The six linear drive elements preferably comprise a tangential drive element.

[0021] Preferably, the lateral and tangential drive elements are pivotally mounted to the tire holder such that a first straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the lateral drive elements intersects with a second straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the tangential drive elements. Preferably, the first straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the lateral drive elements intersects with a second straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the tangential drive elements at an angle of 90°. Preferably, the lateral and tangential drive elements are pivotally mounted to the tire holder such that the mounting point is smaller than the width of the rolling surface and is positioned perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the rolling surface from the point of contact between the tread and the flat belt portion.

[0022] Furthermore, the six linear drive elements are arranged in the initial configuration such that at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of a radial force component. At least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements that is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of a radial force component can also be referred to as a radial drive element.

[0023] Thus, in summary, the tire test stand can be said to comprise at least one lateral drive element, at least one tangential drive element, and at least one radial drive element. Each of these linear drive elements is configured to perform a specific function, particularly with respect to lateral, tangential, and radial force components, that is distinct from the other linear drive elements. That is, the lateral drive element is configured so that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of this force is oriented in the direction of the lateral force component, the tangential drive element is configured so that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of this force is oriented in the direction of the tangential force component, and the radial drive element is configured so that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of this force is oriented in the direction of the radial force component.

[0024] In the case of hexapod assemblies known from the prior art, particularly due to the symmetrical structure of the hexapod assembly, the six linear drive elements are not configured so that each of three of the six linear drive elements can perform a specific function different from that of the other linear drive elements of the three linear drive elements, particularly with respect to lateral, tangential, and radial force components. Hexapod assemblies known from the prior art comprise linear drive elements of identical design, e.g., having the same length, arranged symmetrically with respect to one another, forming the same angles with respect to one another, and configured for the same forces. In principle, hexapod assemblies known from the prior art can also be used in tire test stands, since they also allow for vertical, lateral, and angular movement of the tire holder. However, hexapod assemblies known from the prior art need to be more robust than the tire test stand according to the present invention in order to be able to exert the same forces on the tire on the tire holder during testing. Therefore, the use of at least one lateral drive element, at least one tangential drive element, and at least one radial drive element enables a particularly material-saving and resource-conserving tire test stand. The use of at least one lateral drive element, at least one tangential drive element, and at least one radial drive element allows the lateral drive element, the tangential drive element, and the radial drive element to be configured differently. For example, depending on which adjustment length is desired for tire positioning, the adjustment lengths of the at least one lateral drive element, the at least one tangential drive element, and the at least one radial drive element can be different. Thus, for example, a hexapod assembly according to the present invention can be configured so that skew adjustment is greater than camber adjustment, or so that wheel infeed is greater than lateral or tangential adjustment. Therefore, a tire test stand with optimal movement space for tire testing can be provided, in which the tire can be moved during testing.Furthermore, the at least one lateral drive element, the at least one tangential drive element, and the at least one radial drive element can be configured for the lateral, tangential, and radial force components expected during tire testing, thereby enabling a particularly material-saving and resource-conserving tire test stand.

[0025] In particular, it has been found in the context of the present invention that the combination of at least one lateral drive element, at least one tangential drive element, and at least one radial drive element allows a significant increase in the movement space within which the tire can be moved during testing, in particular compared to the movement space within the possible uses of hexapod assemblies known from the prior art, without the hexapod assembly falling into movement singularities where adjustment of the linear drive elements does not result in the desired movement of the tire holder, thus providing a robust tire test stand.

[0026] Furthermore, in connection with the present invention, it has also been found that a combination of at least one lateral drive element, at least one tangential drive element and at least one radial drive element allows for a particularly good simulation of the kinematics of a real chassis when driving on a road.

[0027] In summary, therefore, it can be said that the present invention provides a robust, material-saving and resource-conserving tire test stand with optimal movement space for tire testing, in which the tire can be moved during testing, so that the kinematics of a real chassis when traveling on a road are particularly well simulated.

[0028] In one embodiment, when a tire is rotatably mounted on the tire holder and the tire is in the contact position, the at least one linear drive element is arranged in a direction parallel to the direction of the radial force component so that when the at least one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of this force is oriented in the direction of the lateral force component. Therefore, in particular, the lateral drive element is arranged in a direction parallel to the direction of the radial force component. By arranging the lateral drive element in a direction parallel to the direction of the radial force component, the lateral drive element can be positioned near the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface. Positioning the lateral drive element near the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface ensures an optimal and direct power flow of the lateral drive element, which is advantageous, especially when testing motorcycle tires, especially at large camber angles.

[0029] In one embodiment, two of the six linear drive elements are each arranged so that when the two linear drive elements exert a force on the tire, the maximum force component of this force is oriented in the direction of the radial force component. Therefore, preferably, the six linear drive elements include two radial drive elements. In particular, the radial drive elements are arranged so that the tire is centered between the radial drive elements. Preferably, the two radial drive elements are arranged symmetrically with respect to the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface. In particular, by arranging the two radial drive elements symmetrically with respect to the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface, the bending moment caused by the radial force component can be reduced or even completely avoided. Preferably, each of the radial drive elements is pivotally mounted at its first end to the frame. In this case, preferably, the two pivot axes run along the same straight line, on which the contact point is also located. As a result, when the tire is adjusted to different contact positions, the tire load vector running along the radial drive elements can maintain approximately the same distance from the contact point. Furthermore, the radial drive element is pivotally attached to the tire holder at the second end, with the two pivot axes running along the same straight line. Preferably, in the initial configuration, the two radial drive elements are aligned perpendicular to the tangential plane and parallel to each other. Even more preferably, in the initial configuration, the two radial drive elements extend at an angle to each other from the tire holder portion toward the tangential plane. The distance between the two radial drive elements increases from the tire holder portion toward the tangential plane. If, in the initial configuration, the two radial drive elements extend at an angle to each other from the tire holder portion toward the tangential plane and the distance between the two radial drive elements increases from the tire holder portion toward the tangential plane, the tire test stand is designed to be particularly rigid.

[0030] In one embodiment, a tire is rotatably mounted on a tire holder. When the tire is positioned at a contact position between two linear drive elements, the two linear drive elements are each positioned so that when each of the two linear drive elements exerts a force on the tire, the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the radial force component. Therefore, at the contact position, the tire is preferably positioned between the two radial drive elements. In particular, the radial drive elements are positioned so that the tire is centered between the radial drive elements. Preferably, the two radial drive elements are positioned symmetrically with respect to the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface. In particular, by positioning the two radial drive elements symmetrically with respect to the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface, the bending moment caused by the radial force component can be reduced or even completely avoided.

[0031] In one embodiment, the two linear drive elements are each arranged offset from one another in the direction of the rotation axis in the initial configuration so that when the two linear drive elements each exert a force on the tire, the maximum force component of each of these forces is oriented in the direction of the radial force component. Arranging the radial drive elements offset from one another in the direction of the rotation axis (the direction of the tire's rotation axis in the initial configuration) in the initial configuration is particularly advantageous when the tire test stand is arranged horizontally, i.e., when the tire holder is arranged horizontally next to the rolling surface unit. Due to the fact that the radial drive elements are offset from one another in the direction of the rotation axis in the initial configuration, the tire can be moved, for example, from above toward the tire holder and then moved upward away from it. Because the radial drive elements can be offset from one another in the direction of the rotation axis in the initial configuration, particularly heavy tires can be mounted on and removed from the tire test stand using a crane.

[0032] In one embodiment, at least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements is arranged in the initial configuration such that adjustment of the at least one linear drive element can pivot the tire about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis from its orientation in the initial configuration. At least one linear drive element of the six linear drive elements, arranged in the initial configuration such that adjustment of the at least one linear drive element can pivot the tire about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis from its orientation in the initial configuration, can also be referred to as a steering / camber drive element. Preferably, the steering / camber drive element is pivotally attached to the frame at a first end and to the tire holder at a second end. Preferably, the at least one steering / camber drive element is pivotally attached to the tire holder such that its attachment point is further from the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface than the attachment points of the lateral and tangential drive elements, and in particular, further from the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface than the length of the at least one radial drive element in the initial configuration. By positioning the attachment point of the at least one steering / camber drive element on the tire holder away from the contact point between the tread and the rolling surface, it is ensured that a relatively small force needs to be applied to the tire by the at least one steering / camber drive element to turn the tire about the horizontal and vertical axes.

[0033] In one embodiment, two linear drive elements of the six linear drive elements are each positioned in the initial configuration such that adjustment of the two linear drive elements can cause the tire to pivot about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis from its orientation in the initial configuration. The two linear drive elements of the six linear drive elements that are positioned such that adjustment of the two linear drive elements can cause the tire to pivot about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis from its orientation in the initial configuration can also be referred to as steering / camber drive elements.

[0034] In one embodiment, the tire holder includes a first pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame. A second end of a first linear drive element of the at least one linear drive element is pivotally mounted to the first pivot arm. The first pivot arm is positioned in the initial configuration such that adjustment of the linear drive element allows the tire to be pivoted about the horizontal and vertical axes from its orientation in the initial configuration. Thus, the tire holder includes a first pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame and a first steering / camber drive element having a second end pivotally mounted thereto. The fact that the tire holder includes a first pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame and a first steering / camber drive element having a second end pivotally mounted thereto allows the first steering / camber drive element to be shorter because the first pivot arm ensures that a relatively small force needs to be applied to the tire by the first steering / camber drive element to pivot the tire about the horizontal and vertical axes. Preferably, the tire holder comprises a first connecting rod pivotally mounted on the first pivot arm. In particular, the first connecting rod may be pivotally mounted on a portion of the tire holder. Preferably, the second end of the first steering / camber drive element is pivotally mounted on the first pivot arm.

[0035] In one embodiment, the tire holder includes a second pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame. A second end of a second linear drive element of the at least one linear drive element is pivotally mounted to the second pivot arm. The second pivot arm is positioned in the initial configuration such that adjustment of the linear drive element allows the tire to be pivoted about the horizontal and vertical axes from its orientation in the initial configuration. Thus, the tire holder includes a second pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame and a second end of the second steering / camber drive element pivotally mounted to the second pivot arm. Due to the fact that the tire holder includes a second pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame and a second end of the second steering / camber drive element pivotally mounted to the second pivot arm, the second steering / camber drive element can be made shorter because the second pivot arm ensures that a relatively small force needs to be applied to the tire by the second steering / camber drive element to pivot the tire about the horizontal and vertical axes. Preferably, the tire holder comprises a second connecting rod pivotally mounted on the second pivot arm. In particular, the second connecting rod may be pivotally mounted on a portion of the tire holder. Preferably, the second end of the second steering / camber drive element is pivotally mounted on the second pivot arm.

[0036] Preferably, the first and second connecting rods are arranged parallel to one another. Particularly preferably, the first and second connecting rods extend at an angle relative to one another from the tire holder portion towards the first or second pivot arm. The distance between the first and second connecting rods increases from the tire holder portion towards the first or second pivot arm. Due to the first and second connecting rods extending at an angle relative to one another, a particularly rigid tire test stand is provided.

[0037] Preferably, the first radial drive element and the first connecting rod are pivotally attached to the tire holder so that a first straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the first radial drive element and a second straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the first connecting rod intersect. More preferably, the second radial drive element and the second connecting rod are pivotally attached to the tire holder so that a first straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the second radial drive element and a second straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the second connecting rod intersect. This makes the operating range of tire adjustment relatively wider and more stable.

[0038] In one embodiment, the tire holder comprises a frame portion fixed to the frame and a tire portion on which the tire is rotatably mounted. The frame portion and the tire portion are connected via a force measuring unit. When the tire test stand is in its initial configuration, the force measuring unit comprises at least one lateral force measuring element extending in the direction of a lateral force component, at least one tangential force measuring element extending in the direction of a tangential force component, and at least one radial force measuring element extending in the direction of a radial force component. By having at least one lateral force measuring element extending in the direction of the lateral force component, at least one tangential force measuring element extending in the direction of the tangential force component, and at least one radial force measuring element extending in the direction of the radial force component, accurate detection of different force components, preferably independently of one another, is ensured.

[0039] In one embodiment, at least one linear drive element of the hexapod assembly is designed as a hydraulic cylinder. Designing at least one linear drive element of the hexapod assembly as a hydraulic cylinder ensures that relatively high forces can be transmitted. Furthermore, designing at least one linear drive element of the hexapod assembly as a hydraulic cylinder ensures uniform and precise adjustment movements. In particular, designing at least one linear drive element of the hexapod assembly as a hydraulic cylinder improves the positioning accuracy of the hexapod assembly. Particularly preferably, each linear drive element of the hexapod assembly is designed as a hydraulic cylinder. The advantages stated for at least one linear drive element apply correspondingly to each linear drive element.

[0040] In one embodiment, at least one linear drive element of the hexapod assembly is designed as an electromechanical linear drive. Designing at least one linear drive element of the hexapod assembly as an electromechanical linear drive ensures a relatively high adjustment speed and high adjustment acceleration for adjusting the linear drive element. Furthermore, designing at least one linear drive element of the hexapod assembly as an electromechanical linear drive ensures a uniform and accurate adjustment movement. In particular, designing at least one linear drive element of the hexapod assembly as an electromechanical linear drive can improve the positioning accuracy of the hexapod assembly. Particularly preferably, each linear drive element of the hexapod assembly is designed as an electromechanical linear drive. The advantages described for at least one linear drive element apply correspondingly to each linear drive element.

[0041] In one embodiment, the tire test stand includes a tire drive unit. When the tire is rotatably mounted on the tire holder, the tire drive unit can drive the tire in the tire rotation direction. With the help of the tire drive unit, the tire can be driven in the tire rotation direction, and thus can be rotated around its rotation axis. Furthermore, with the help of the tire drive unit, the tire can be accelerated in the tire rotation direction when rolling on the flat belt portion, thereby placing the tire in an additional load state. If the tire test stand does not include a belt drive unit, the belt can be driven in the belt rotation direction by driving the tire in the tire rotation direction to bring the tread into contact with the flat belt portion.

[0042] In one embodiment, the tire test stand includes a tire braking unit. When the tire is rotatably mounted on the tire holder, the tire braking unit can brake the tire in the direction of tire rotation. With the help of the tire braking unit, the tire can be braked in the direction of tire rotation, thus slowing down the rotational movement around its rotation axis. With the help of the tire braking unit, the rotational speed of the tire can be reduced in the direction of tire rotation. Furthermore, with the help of the tire braking unit, the tire can be braked in the direction of tire rotation when rolling on the flat belt portion, thereby placing the tire under further load.

[0043] Further features, advantages and possibilities of use of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments and the drawings. All features described and / or shown form the subject matter of the invention, both by themselves and in any combination, and independently of their position in individual claims or their dependent claims. In the figures, the same reference signs continue to designate the same or similar objects. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention; [Figure 3] 1A and 1B are two schematic views of a frame portion, a tire portion, and a force measuring unit of a first embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention. [Figure 8] 5A-5C are two schematic views of a fourth embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0045] Figures 1 and 2 each show a schematic view of a first embodiment of a tire test stand 1 according to the present invention. The tire test stand 1 comprises a frame, a tire holder 3, a hexapod assembly 5, and a rolling surface unit 7, which are not shown in Figures 1 and 2. The tire test stand 1 also comprises a tire drive unit, which is not shown in Figures 1 and 2, a tire braking unit, which is also not shown in Figures 1 and 2, and a rolling surface drive unit, which is also not shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0046] The hexapod assembly 5 comprises six linear drive elements 9. Each of the six linear drive elements 9 comprises a first end 11 and a second end 13. Each of the six linear drive elements 9 is attached to the frame at the first end 11 and to the tire holder 3 at the second end 13. In the first embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention shown in Figures 1 and 2, each of the six linear drive elements 9 of the hexapod assembly 5 is designed as an electromechanical linear drive. Alternatively, each of the six linear drive elements 9 of the hexapod assembly 5 can be designed as a retrofit hydraulic cylinder.

[0047] 1 and 2 further show a tire 15 having a tread 17. The tire 15 is rotatably mounted on the tire holder 3 around its rotation axis 19. The tire driving unit can drive the tire 15 rotatably mounted on the tire holder 3 in the tire rotation direction Re. The tire braking unit can brake the tire 15 rotatably mounted on the tire holder 3 in the tire rotation direction Re, i.e., can reduce the rotational speed of the tire 15 in the tire rotation direction Re.

[0048] As already mentioned, the tire test stand 1 includes a rolling surface unit 7. The rolling surface unit 7 includes a flat rolling surface 21. The rolling surface 21 can be moved relative to the frame. The tire 15, which is rotatably mounted in the tire holder 3, can be brought into the contact position shown in Figures 1 and 2 by adjusting the linear drive element 9 of the hexapod assembly 5. In the contact position, the tread 17 of the tire 15 and the rolling surface 21 are in contact.

[0049] As already described, the tire test stand 1 includes a tire driving unit. The tire driving unit can drive the tire 15, which is rotatably mounted on the tire holder 3, in a tire rotation direction Re. The rolling surface driving unit can drive the rolling surface 21 in a rolling surface rotation direction Ab. When the tread 17 and the rolling surface 21 come into contact with each other and the rolling surface 21 is moved relative to the tire 15, the tire 15 rolls on the rolling surface 21.

[0050] In the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the tire 15 can be positioned relative to the rolling surface 21 using the hexapod assembly 5. In particular, adjustment of the linear drive element 9 of the hexapod assembly 5 can place the tire 15 in a contact position where the tire's tread 17 contacts the rolling surface 21. Furthermore, adjustment of the linear drive element 9 of the hexapod assembly 5 can place the tire 15 in additional contact positions, in addition to the contact positions shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , where the tire's tread 17 also contacts the rolling surface 21. As the tire 15 then rolls over the rolling surface 21, the tire 15 can be placed under different loading conditions as it rolls. Adjustment of the linear drive element 9 as the tire 15 rolls over the rolling surface 21 can adjust, for example, the camber of the tire 15, the skew of the tire 15, the tire load of the tire 15, and / or the position of the tire 15 relative to the rolling surface 21. In addition, the tire 15 can be driven in the tire rotation direction Re by a tire driving unit or braked in the tire rotation direction Re by a tire braking unit, so that the tire 15 can be put into different load states when rolling.

[0051] 1 and 2 show tire test stand 1 in an initial configuration. In this initial configuration, the tangent plane on tread 17 and the tangent plane on rolling surface 21, which are parallel to axis of rotation 19, are the same. In particular, a contact point 23 exists between tread 17 and rolling surface 21 on both tangent planes. Furthermore, in the initial configuration, the tangential velocity of tread 17 and the tangential velocity of rolling surface 21 are the same at contact point 23 between tread 17 and rolling surface 21. Each force acting on tire 15 can be divided into a lateral force component 25, a tangential force component 27, and a radial force component 29. Lateral force component 25 runs parallel to axis of rotation 19 in the tangential plane. Tangential force component 27 runs perpendicular to lateral force component 25 in the tangential plane. Radial force component 29 runs perpendicular to the tangential plane.

[0052] The present invention is advantageous compared to the prior art, in particular due to the configuration of the six linear drive elements 9, since the six linear drive elements 9 are not arranged symmetrically with respect to one another as in the hexapod assemblies known from the prior art.

[0053] 1 and 2, the six linear drive elements 9 are arranged as follows: one linear drive element 9 of the six linear drive elements 9 is arranged so that when this one linear drive element 9 exerts a force on the tire 15, the maximum force component of this force is oriented in the direction of the lateral force component 25. This linear drive element 9 can also be referred to as a lateral drive element 31.

[0054] 1 and 2, the six linear drive elements 9 are arranged as follows: one linear drive element 9 of the six linear drive elements 9 is arranged such that when this one linear drive element exerts a force on the tire 15, the maximum force component of this force is oriented in the direction of the tangential force component 27. This linear drive element 9 can also be referred to as a tangential drive element 33.

[0055] Furthermore, in the initial configuration shown in Figures 1 and 2, the six linear drive elements 9 are arranged as follows: two of the six linear drive elements 9 are each arranged so that when these two linear drive elements exert a force on the tire 15, the maximum force component of these forces is oriented in the direction of the radial force component 29. These linear drive elements 9 can also be referred to as radial drive elements 35. The radial drive elements 35 are arranged so that the tire 15 is centered between them. Each of the radial drive elements 35 is pivotally attached to the frame at its first end 11. The two pivot axes extend along a straight line on which the contact point 23 is also located. Furthermore, the radial drive elements 35 are pivotally attached to the tire holder 3 at their second end 13. The two pivot axes run along the same straight line.

[0056] Furthermore, in the initial configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the six linear drive elements 9 are arranged as follows: Two of the six linear drive elements 9 are each arranged such that, in the initial configuration, adjustment of the two linear drive elements 9 allows the tire 15 to pivot from its orientation in the initial configuration about a horizontal axis running parallel to the tangential force component 27 in the tangential plane in FIGS. 1 and 2 , and about a vertical axis running along the radial force component 29 in FIGS. 1 and 2 . The two linear drive elements 9 may also be referred to as steering / camber drive elements 37. The tire holder 3 includes a first pivot arm 39 pivotably mounted to the frame and a second pivot arm 41 pivotably mounted to the frame. The tire holder 3 further includes a first connecting rod 43 pivotably mounted to the first pivot arm 39 and a second connecting rod 45 pivotably mounted to the second pivot arm 41. The first connecting rod 43 and the second connecting rod 45 are each pivotally mounted to a portion of the tire holder 3. The second end 13 of the first steering / camber drive element 37 of the two steering / camber drive elements 37 is pivotally mounted to the first pivot arm 39. The second end 13 of the second steering / camber drive element 37 of the two steering / camber drive elements 37 is pivotally mounted to the second pivot arm 41.

[0057] In the first embodiment of the tire test stand 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2, the two radial drive elements 35 are not aligned perpendicular to the tangent plane and are not aligned parallel to each other. Rather, the two radial drive elements 35 extend at an angle relative to each other from the portion of the tire holder 3 toward the tangent plane. The distance between the two radial drive elements 35 increases from the portion of the tire holder 3 toward the tangent plane.

[0058] 1 and 2, the first connecting rod 43 and the second connecting rod 45 are not arranged parallel to each other. Rather, the first connecting rod 43 and the second connecting rod 45 extend at an angle relative to each other from the tire holder 3 toward the first pivot arm 39 or the second pivot arm 41. The distance between the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod 45 increases from the tire holder toward the first pivot arm 39 or the second pivot arm 41.

[0059] Furthermore, the lateral drive element 31 and the tangential drive element 33 are pivotally mounted on the tire holder 3 so that a first straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the lateral drive element 31 intersects with a second straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the tangential drive element 33.

[0060] In addition, the first radial driving element 35 and the first connecting rod 43 are rotatably attached to the tire holder 3 so that a first straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the first radial driving element 35 and a second straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the first connecting rod 43 intersect.

[0061] Furthermore, the second radial driving element 35 and the second connecting rod 45 are rotatably attached to the tire holder 3 so that a first straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the second radial driving element 35 and a second straight line oriented along the main extension direction of the second connecting rod 45 intersect with each other.

[0062] FIG. 3 shows a frame portion 47, a tire portion 49, and a force measuring unit 51 of a tire holder 3 of a first embodiment of a tire test stand 1 according to the present invention. The frame portion 47 is fixed to a frame. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a tire 15 is rotatably mounted on the tire portion 49. The frame portion 47 and the tire portion 49 are connected to each other via the force measuring unit 51. The force measuring unit 51 comprises three lateral force measuring elements 53 extending in the direction of the lateral force component 25 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Furthermore, the force measuring unit 51 comprises two tangential force measuring elements 55 extending in the direction of the tangential force component 27 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Furthermore, the force measuring unit 51 comprises a radial force measuring element 57 extending in the direction of the radial force component 29 (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0063] 4 and 5 each show a schematic view of a second embodiment of a tire test stand 1 according to the present invention. The second embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the present invention substantially corresponds to the first embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the present invention. However, the tire holder 3 of the second embodiment does not include a first pivot arm 39, a second pivot arm 41, a first connecting rod 43, and a second connecting rod 45. Rather, two steering / camber drive elements 37 are each pivotally attached to the frame at a first end 11 and to the tire holder 3, particularly to a portion of the tire holder 3, at a second end 13. Furthermore, in the second embodiment of the tire test stand 1, the two radial drive elements 35 are aligned perpendicular to the tangent plane and parallel to each other. Furthermore, in the second embodiment of the tire test stand 1, the two steering / camber drive elements 37 are arranged parallel to each other. Furthermore, the first radial drive element 35 and the first steering / camber drive element 37 are pivotably mounted to the tire holder 3 such that a first straight line, oriented along the main extension direction of the first radial drive element 35, intersects with a second straight line, oriented along the main extension direction of the first steering / camber drive element 37. Furthermore, the second radial drive element 35 and the second steering / camber drive element 37 are pivotably mounted to the tire holder 3 such that a first straight line, oriented along the main extension direction of the second radial drive element 35, intersects with a second straight line, oriented along the main extension direction of the second steering / camber drive element 37. Furthermore, the tire holder 3 of the second embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the present invention comprises a frame part 47, a tire part 49 and a force measuring unit 51, as described in relation to the first embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0064] The features, technical effects and / or advantages described in connection with the first embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention apply at least equally to the second embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention, and therefore a corresponding repetition will be omitted here.

[0065] 6 and 7 each show a schematic view of a third embodiment of a tire test stand 1 according to the invention. The third embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention substantially corresponds to the first embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention. However, in the third embodiment, the rolling surface unit 7 comprises a curved rolling surface 21. The curved rolling surface 21 is formed by the inner peripheral surface of a drum. The drum is rotatably mounted on a frame and is rotatably driveable with the aid of a rolling surface drive unit. Furthermore, the lateral drive elements 31 of the third embodiment are arranged in a direction running parallel to the direction of the radial force component 29 (see FIGS. 1 and 4). In FIGS. 6 and 7, the lateral drive elements 31 are arranged below the tire 15 and below the rolling surface 21. By arranging the lateral drive elements 31 in a direction running parallel to the direction of the radial force component 29, a particularly space-saving variant of the tire test stand 1 is provided. Using the rotation surface of a rotatably mounted drum as the rolling surface is particularly advantageous in this regard. 19, the radial drive elements 35 are pivotally mounted on the frame 3 at their first end 11. The two pivot axes extend along the same straight line, on which the contact point 23 is not located. In the third embodiment, the contact point 23 is located on a tangent plane. The line along which the two pivot axes run is parallel to the tangent plane and is spaced apart from the tangent plane in the direction of the rotation axis 19. The radial drive elements 35 are pivotally mounted on the tire holder 3 at their second end 13. The two pivot axes run along the same straight line. In the third embodiment of the tire test stand 1, the two radial drive elements 35 are pivotally mounted on the tire holder 3 at their second end 13. The two pivot axes run along the same straight line. Furthermore, the tire holder 3 of the third embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the present invention comprises the frame part 47, the tire part 49 and the force measuring unit 51 described in relation to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

[0066] The features, technical effects and / or advantages described in connection with the first embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention apply at least equally to the third embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention, and therefore corresponding repetitions will be omitted here.

[0067] FIG. 8 shows two schematic views of a fourth embodiment of a tire test stand 1 according to the present invention. The fourth embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the present invention substantially corresponds to the first embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the present invention. The arrangement of the tire test stand 1 shown in FIG. 8 can also be referred to as a horizontal arrangement. However, in the fourth embodiment, the rolling surface unit 7 comprises a curved rolling surface 21. The curved rolling surface 21 is formed by the outer peripheral surface of a drum. The drum is rotatably mounted on a frame and can be rotatably driven with the aid of a rolling surface drive unit. In the fourth embodiment, the radial drive elements 35 are offset from one another in the direction of the rotation axis 19 in the initial configuration. As a result, for example, as shown in the left schematic view of FIG. 8, the tire 15 can be moved toward the tire holder 3 from above and away from the tire holder 3 in the upward direction. Due to the radial drive elements 35 being offset from one another in the direction of the rotation axis 19 in the initial configuration, particularly heavy tires 15 can be mounted on and removed from the tire test stand 1 using a crane.

[0068] The features, technical effects and / or advantages explained in connection with the first, second and third embodiments of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention apply at least equally to the fourth embodiment of the tire test stand 1 according to the invention, and therefore the corresponding repetition will be omitted here.

[0069] In addition, it should be pointed out that "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "ein / a" or "eine / an" do not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features described with reference to one of the above exemplary embodiments can also be used in combination with other features of other exemplary embodiments described above. Reference signs in the claims should not be considered as limiting. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 1 Tire Test Stand 3 Tire holder 5 Hexapod Assembly 7. Rolling surface unit 9 Linear drive elements 11 First end of linear drive element 13 second end of linear drive element 15 tires 17 Tread 19 Rotation axis 21 Rolling surface 23 contact points 25 Lateral force component 27 Tangential force component 29 Radial force component 31 Lateral driving element 33 Tangential driving element 35 Radial driving element 37 Steering / camber drive element 39 First pivot arm 41 Second pivot arm 43 First connecting rod 45 Second connecting rod 47 Frame part 49 Tire part 51 Force measurement unit 53 Lateral force measuring element 55 Tangential force measurement elements 57 Radial force measuring element Re Tire rotation direction Ab Rotation direction of the rolling surface

Claims

1. A tire test stand (1), comprising: The frame and a tire holder (3) capable of mounting a tire (15) having a tread (17) rotatably about its rotation axis (19); a hexapod assembly (5) having six linear drive elements (9), each of the six linear drive elements (9) attached at a first end (11) to the frame and at a second end (13) to the tire holder (3); A tire test stand (1) comprising: a rolling surface unit (7) having a rolling surface (21) that can be moved relative to the frame, When the tire (15) is rotatably mounted on the tire holder (3), the tire (15) can be brought into a contact position by adjusting the linear drive element (9) of the hexapod assembly (5), in which the tread (17) and the rolling surface (21) of the tire (15) are in contact; When the tread (17) and the rolling surface (21) are in contact and the rolling surface (21) is moved relative to the tire (15), the tire (15) rolls on the rolling surface (21); In an initial configuration, a tangent plane on the tread (17) parallel to the rotation axis (19) and a tangent plane on the rolling surface (21) are identical, the tangential velocity of the tread (17) and the tangential velocity of the rolling surface (21) are identical at the contact point (23) between the tread (17) and the rolling surface (21), and each force acting on the tire (15) can be divided into a lateral force component (25) running parallel to the rotation axis (19) on the tangential plane, a tangential force component (27) running perpendicular to the lateral force component (25) on the tangential plane, and a radial force component (29) running perpendicular to the tangential plane, The six linear drive elements (9) are arranged in the initial configuration as follows: At least one linear drive element (9) of the six linear drive elements (9) is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element (9) exerts a force on the tire (15), a maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the lateral force component (25); At least one linear drive element (9) of the six linear drive elements (9) is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element (9) exerts a force on the tire (15), the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the tangential force component (27); at least one linear drive element (9) of the six linear drive elements (9) is arranged such that when the at least one linear drive element (9) exerts a force on the tire (15), a maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the radial force component (29); a tire test stand (1) in which the tire (15) is rotatably mounted on the tire holder (3), and when the tire (15) is in the contact position, at least one linear drive element (9) is arranged in a direction running parallel to the direction of the radial force component (29) such that when the at least one linear drive element (9) exerts a force on the tire (15), the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the lateral force component (25).

2. 2. A tire test stand (1) according to claim 1, wherein two linear drive elements (9) of the six linear drive elements (9) are each arranged such that when the two linear drive elements (9) exert a force on the tire (15), the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of a radial force component (29).

3. 3. A tire test stand (1) according to claim 2, wherein the tire (15) is rotatably mounted on the tire holder (3), and when the tire (15) is placed in a contact position between two linear drive elements (9), the two linear drive elements (9) are each positioned such that when each of the two linear drive elements exerts a force on the tire (15), the maximum force component of the force is oriented in the direction of the radial force component (29).

4. 4. A tire test stand (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the two linear drive elements (9) are arranged offset from each other in the direction of the rotation axis in an initial configuration so that when the two linear drive elements (9) each exert a force on the tire (15), the maximum force component of each of the forces is oriented in the direction of the radial force component (29).

5. 5. A tire test stand (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one linear drive element (9) of the six linear drive elements (9) is arranged in an initial configuration such that adjustment of the at least one linear drive element (9) allows the tire (15) to be pivoted about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis from its orientation in the initial configuration.

6. 6. A tire test stand (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein two linear drive elements (9) of the six linear drive elements (9) are each arranged in an initial configuration such that adjustment of the two linear drive elements (9) allows the tire (15) to be pivoted about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis from its orientation in the initial configuration.

7. 7. A tire test stand (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the tire holder (3) comprises a first pivot arm (39) pivotably mounted to the frame, the first pivot arm having a second end (13) of a first linear drive element (9) of the at least one linear drive element (9) pivotally mounted to the first pivot arm, the first pivot arm being positioned in the initial configuration such that adjustment of the linear drive element (9) allows the tire (15) to be pivoted about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis from its orientation in the initial configuration.

8. 8. The tire test stand (1) according to claim 5, wherein the tire holder (3) comprises a second pivot arm (41) pivotably mounted to the frame, and a second end (13) of a second linear drive element (9) of at least one linear drive element (9) is pivotably mounted to the second pivot arm (41), the second pivot arm being positioned in the initial configuration such that adjustment of the linear drive element (9) allows the tire (15) to be pivoted about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis from its orientation in the initial configuration.

9. 9. The tire test stand (1) according to claim 1, wherein the tire holder (3) comprises a frame portion (47) fixed to the frame and a tire portion (49) to which the tire (15) is rotatably mounted, the frame portion (47) and the tire portion (49) being connected via a force measuring unit (51), the force measuring unit (51) comprising, when the tire test stand (1) is in an initial configuration, at least one lateral force measuring element (53) extending in the direction of the lateral force component (25), at least one tangential force measuring element extending in the direction of the tangential force component (27), and at least one radial force measuring element extending in the direction of the radial force component (29).

10. 10. The tire test stand (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one of the linear drive elements (9) of the hexapod assembly (5) is designed as a hydraulic cylinder.

11. 11. A tire test stand (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the linear drive elements (9) of the hexapod assembly (5) is designed as an electromechanical linear drive.

12. 12. A tire test stand (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising a tire drive unit, the tire drive unit being capable of driving the tire (15) in a tire rotation direction (Re) when the tire (15) is rotatably mounted on the tire holder (3).

13. 13. A tire test stand (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a tire braking unit, the tire braking unit being capable of braking the tire (15) in a tire rotation direction (Re) when the tire (15) is rotatably mounted on the tire holder (3).

Images