Arrangement of vehicle seats in vehicles

Abstract

The invention relates to an arrangement of vehicle seats (50, 52, 62, 68, 86, 204, 224, 226, 228, 286) in vehicles, containing: a plurality of compartments (22, 24, 122, 124, 222, 224) in which the vehicle seats (50, 52, 62, 68, 86, 204, 224, 226, 228, 286) are arranged; at least one continuous corridor (14, 114, 214) which extends in the direction of travel and is connected to one or more vehicle entrances; and at least one set of steps (34, 36, 234) or at least one ladder for reaching the compartments. The invention is characterised in that the corridor (14, 114, 214) extends above portions (44, 272) of one of more compartments (22, 222, 224) and / or underneath portions (40) of other compartments (24); the corridor (14, 114, 214) extends in the vehicle between portions of different compartments (22, 24, 222, 224) such that the portions are arranged to the sides of the corridor in the direction of travel; and the floor of the corridor (14, 114, 214) runs in a plane different from the floor of the compartments, and each of the compartments (22, 24, 222, 224) is connected to the corridor (14, 114, 214) via a set of steps (34, 36, 234) or a ladder.

Description

[0001] Arrangement of vehicle spaces in vehicles

[0002] Technical area

[0003] The invention relates to an arrangement of vehicle seats in vehicles, comprising:

[0004] (a) several compartments in which the vehicle seats are arranged;

[0005] (b) at least one continuous aisle extending in the direction of travel and connected to one or more vehicle entrances; and

[0006] (c) at least one staircase or ladder to reach the compartments.

[0007] Vehicles can move on land, water, and / or in the air. Examples of vehicles include rail-bound vehicles, such as passenger trains, or non-rail-bound vehicles, such as buses. The invention can also be implemented in passenger ships and passenger aircraft, for example. The term "vehicle" here also includes devices that do not have their own propulsion, such as containers that can be equipped with and moved by various propulsion systems.

[0008] There are short-distance vehicles and vehicles intended for individual use. These are usually equipped with a few seats for the passengers and possibly a driver. This is uncomfortable for longer journeys. Particularly on night trains with sleeping cars, on long-haul flights and on longer ship crossings, compartments are therefore set up in the vehicles where passengers can lie down and possibly sleep. The number of people that can be transported in such compartments in a vehicle is limited. Each vehicle incurs costs for purchase and operation. The more people transported, the lower the costs per person. Furthermore, the maximum number of vehicles that can be operated along a route is limited.

[0009] It is therefore a constant aim in the design of long-distance vehicles to increase the number of people in a vehicle's carrying volume without compromising comfort or privacy.

[0010] Sleeping cars on night trains typically have a side aisle and several compartments with vehicle spaces in the form of sleeping or reclining seats. Areas above and below the vehicle spaces are often used for luggage storage. Each compartment has its own door to the aisle. The aisle extends from a vehicle exit at one end of a car, in the direction of travel, along the entire length of the car to a vehicle exit at the other end. Examples of such sleeping cars can be found at www.nightjet.com.

[0011] DE269157A discloses a sleeping car in which a compartment is provided on both sides of a central aisle, each compartment having an upper sleeping berth and a space arranged below it in the same compartment in the form of a sleeping or sitting berth. DE330168A and DE472401A disclose a sleeping car in which sleeping berths are arranged on both sides of a central aisle and above the central aisle. DE423438A discloses a sleeping car in which sleeping berths are arranged on both sides of a central aisle and below the central aisle.

[0012] DE674866A discloses a double-decker sleeping car with an upper and a lower central aisle, each with a compartment with sleeping or seating spaces on either side. DE811114A and GB658877A disclose a sleeping or caravan in which compartments are arranged in a 1.5-story design such that sleeping areas in lower compartments are separated by standing areas in the upper compartments, and standing areas in the lower compartments are placed beneath sleeping areas in the upper compartments. JP2000326846A discloses a sleeping car with a double-decker central aisle and compartments extending over three floors on both sides of the central aisle.

[0013] Common double-decker passenger carriages generally have two-level sections with aisles on the upper and lower levels. Single-level sections also exist. Due to the limitations of the vehicle's profile, single-level sections are located primarily above the bogies.

[0014] Double-decker carriages use publicly accessible stairways to connect the two levels. The stairways also serve to connect the exit doors, which are located on only one level. Furthermore, the stairways ensure the connection between single-deck and multi-deck sections. The stairways of conventional double-decker carriages require a lot of volume. In single-decker sections, the number of vehicle spaces is fewer than in double-decker sections. The total number of vehicle spaces in double-decker carriages increases accordingly, only by about 1.5 times instead of twice. Double-decker carriages therefore typically have the longest possible double-decker sections to minimize the volume required for stairways that cannot be used for vehicle spaces.

[0015] Common night trains often consist of multiple carriage units. A carriage unit is a set of carriages serving the same destination that are not separated during the journey. Different carriage units of a train can be separated from each other during the journey. This allows a single train to offer multiple destinations by exchanging carriage units with other trains during the journey from the point of origin.

[0016] Carriage units on night trains typically consist of a large number of different carriages. These include, for example, sleeping cars, couchette cars, seating cars, cars with PRM wheelchair areas as both sleeping and seating areas, bistro, café, and / or restaurant cars. The large number of different car units means higher acquisition and maintenance costs, less flexibility, and fewer economies of scale. It is also problematic that, in the event of a breakdown, either a large number of cars must be kept on standby or the short-term loss of cars must be accepted.

[0017] Disclosure of the invention

[0018] The object of the invention is to create an arrangement of vehicle spaces of the type mentioned above, with which the comfort of the stay can be improved and the number of people that can be transported can be increased compared to known arrangements. According to the invention, the object is achieved in that

[0019] (d) the aisle extends above sections of one or more compartments and / or below sections of other compartments; (e) the aisle extends in the vehicle between sections of different compartments so that the sections are arranged to the sides of the aisle in the direction of travel; and

[0020] (f) the floor of the aisle is at a different level from the floor of the compartments and each of the compartments is connected to the aisle by a staircase or ladder.

[0021] The invention can be realized, for example, by

[0022] (a) the vehicle spaces are distributed over at least two floors, with a lower and an upper floor each containing several compartments;

[0023] (b) the corridor extends above sections of the compartments on the lower floor and / or below sections of the compartments on the upper floor;

[0024] (c) the sections are arranged on both sides of the aisle in the direction of travel; and

[0025] (d) the floor of the corridor is at a level below the floor of sections of the compartments on the upper floor and above the floor of sections of the compartments on the lower floor.

[0026] Such a solution creates an arrangement of vehicle spaces in which the compartments extend over two floors, but only requires one aisle, via which each compartment can be reached, regardless of the floor. This allows access to the compartments from a common aisle and therefore requires significantly less vehicle volume. Using only one aisle between the compartments allows the area above and below the aisle not used as an aisle to be used. With the usual permitted heights, for example on trains, these sections are lower than the sections to the sides of the aisle. They can be used, for example, as luggage storage or sleeping space, for which the lower height is also sufficient. Passengers usually spend little time in the aisle. Accordingly, windows facing outwards are not required in the aisle.In contrast, all compartments are located along an outside wall and have access to daylight and, if necessary, fresh air. A few windows can be provided near the stairs to the upper compartments. These can serve as emergency exits. This improves the quality of the stay. Both the upper and lower compartments can be reached via stairs or a ladder from the corridor. This means that only half a floor needs to be climbed. The stairs or ladder can be made short and takes up little space. The distance to the upper compartments does not necessarily have to be the same as the distance to the lower compartments. For example, the distance to the lower compartments can be smaller than that to the upper compartments.

[0027] The compartments can be arranged in such a way that there are two compartments one above the other on one side of the aisle and only one compartment on the other side. This is particularly useful if the entire space below the aisle is to be used by the lower of the compartments one above the other and the entire space above the aisle is to be used by the upper of the compartments one above the other. Part of the space above and / or below the aisle can also be provided for luggage compartments, preferably lockable luggage compartments, which are accessible from the aisle rather than from the compartment. This is advantageous if items of luggage are not to be transported into one of the compartments via stairs or a ladder. It can also be provided that the luggage compartments are accessible from both the compartment and the aisle.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, compartments are arranged on both sides of the aisle, on an upper and a lower floor. It is understood that combinations of these arrangements can also be provided in one carriage.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the vehicle seats comprise beds and / or berths that extend at least partially in the sections above or below the aisle. In particular, the foot area of ​​the beds and / or berths can be arranged below or above the aisle. Neither light nor a particular height or width is required for the foot and, if applicable, leg area of ​​beds and / or berths, although lighting in that area can increase the comfort and / or sense of security of passengers. The beds and / or berths can be located below the aisle without any loss of comfort and allow arrangement transverse to the direction of travel. Beds can also be arranged above the aisle in the upper compartment, for example transverse to the direction of travel or also lengthwise to the direction of travel. The vehicle seats can also be formed by seats that can be converted into beds and / or berths.For example, movable backrests and armrests can be provided and / or the backrest can be pivoted backwards or moved upwards or folded. The lying surface can be formed partially or completely by repositioning the seat and / or backrest. A further embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention provides that the seating area for persons has a smaller width in the foot area than in the head and shoulder area. The seating area can be formed, for example, by a bed and / or a lounger. Even in seating areas where a person is standing or sitting, a larger width can be provided for the stomach or shoulder area.

[0030] The lounge area can also be located in the aisle, and at least one side wall of the aisle is provided with one or more recesses. These recesses are designed so that the foot area in the aisle is narrow and the shoulder and head area is wide. The recesses provide correspondingly more space on the compartment side. Similar considerations apply to restrooms, washrooms, shower rooms, and other spaces where people may be present.

[0031] In a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that

[0032] (a) the lounge area includes beds and / or couchettes on a common level above or below the aisle,

[0033] (b) the foot area of ​​the beds and / or cots on that level is located above or below the aisle; and

[0034] (c) the foot area of ​​a bed or berth in a compartment on one side of the aisle is located, in the direction of travel, behind or in front of the foot area of ​​a bed or berth in a compartment on the other side of the aisle.

[0035] In this embodiment of the invention, the area above and below the aisle is used by the compartments on both sides of the aisle. For example, the foot areas of the beds or cots below the aisle can extend from a compartment on the right side under the aisle and from the left side behind it in the direction of travel. Such an arrangement allows for beds or cots running transversely to the direction of travel on both sides of the aisle. It goes without saying that the beds or cots can also be arranged at an angle.

[0036] In a further embodiment of the invention, a luggage rack is provided above or below one or more vehicle seats or to the side thereof. The luggage rack can comprise luggage compartments or open luggage racks. The luggage rack can be accessible from the compartment and / or the aisle. The compartments can be designed as multi-bed compartments. However, it can also be provided that each of the compartments is equipped with only one bed or a bunk. It can also be provided that seats and / or reclining seats are provided in the sections to the side of the aisle.

[0037] The vehicle can be equipped with one or more wet rooms, toilets, and washing facilities. In a comfortable layout, the compartments are equipped with a wet room.

[0038] A particularly compact arrangement of vehicle spaces is achieved by providing a shared staircase for every two compartments. The staircase can be located between two compartment doors. This reduces the number of staircases by about half. The freed-up vehicle space is available for other uses.

[0039] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, walls with recesses are provided between the compartments and / or between the compartments and the aisle. These recesses can be used, as explained above, to create a wider shoulder area. However, it is also possible to use recesses in the partition walls for part of the lying surface of loungers or beds. A projection is created on the other side. This preferably has a horizontal surface that can be used as a storage area or seat. This variant is particularly advantageous if the horizontal surface can be used as a table or desk.

[0040] The object of the invention is further achieved by an arrangement of compartments in a vehicle, which are separated from adjacent compartments and / or an aisle by walls, characterized in that the walls are provided with one or more bulges. The bulges create more volume in a compartment where it is needed and reduce the volume in the adjacent compartment where this volume is not required. The available volume is better utilized by walls that are not flat.

[0041] It can be provided that the bulge extends across the entire width of a compartment. Such a bulge can form a receptacle for at least part of a bed or a couchette with a sleeping area arranged above it. Alternatively, it serves to accommodate technology or as a luggage compartment. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that a backrest and / or armrests are arranged above the bulge on the wall, which can be moved upwards or downwards so that the bed or couchette can be converted into a seat. The backrest and / or armrests can in particular be padded and / or ergonomically shaped and can be moved downwards or folded downwards. For particular seating comfort, it can be provided that the bed or couchette can be pivoted from a horizontal position.In particular, the bed or lounger can be vertically movable and / or pivotable about a horizontal axis and locked in this position, resulting in an ergonomically advantageous sitting position.

[0042] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the recess is spaced from the floor, and a luggage or footwell is formed below the recess in an adjacent compartment. The feet of a seated person can be placed accordingly below the recess.

[0043] It is particularly advantageous if the recess in the adjacent compartment forms a projection with a horizontal surface. This can be used as a storage surface. Furthermore, a plate can be provided above the recess, which can be moved into a horizontal position, resting at least partially on the projection, and can be locked in this position. The recess can support the weight of the plate. A larger plate can be used, for example, as a table for eating or working.

[0044] An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides for inclined protrusions. The protrusions can be adjacent to the vehicle's outer wall. Furthermore, it can be provided that windows are provided in the vehicle's outer wall, which are offset from the compartment wall in the direction of travel in the area of ​​the protrusion. This ensures that, from the passenger's perspective, the windows create the impression of a larger compartment.

[0045] Depending on the compartment size, the wall in the head area of ​​narrow compartments may have an outward offset. This may, for example, be an offset into an adjacent compartment, the aisle, or another adjacent space. This creates more space in the head area to avoid a feeling of being cramped. A luggage rack can be mounted on the other side of the offset wall above the seat or berth. The object of the invention is further achieved by an arrangement of vehicle seats in vehicles in a herringbone configuration, comprising

[0046] (a) at least one aisle in one level;

[0047] (b) Herringbone vehicle bays accessible from the aisle.

[0048] A herringbone layout refers to any arrangement of vehicle seats in which parallel seats are not aligned in the direction of travel or perpendicular to the direction of travel, but rather at an angle. The angle formed by the seat direction with the aisle is always the same for seats arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel. An example of such an arrangement is described in detail in, among others, US Pat. No. 7,523,888B2.

[0049] The present invention provides that

[0050] (c) further vehicle spaces are arranged in at least one further level; and

[0051] (d) stairs or ladders are provided in the aisle to access the other vehicle spaces.

[0052] In particular, it can be provided that the vehicle spaces on the additional level are accessible via their own stairs or ladder. Alternatively, a shared staircase or ladder can be provided for each two adjacent vehicle spaces on the additional level. In this case, two adjacent vehicle spaces share one staircase or ladder. The vehicle spaces are thus arranged in two levels without an additional aisle or floor. This allows a larger number of passengers to be transported.

[0053] Advantageously, the vehicle spaces are formed by seats that can be converted into berths. The angled seating direction of the herringbone arrangement allows entry to both seats and berths without disturbing neighboring passengers.

[0054] In a particularly convenient embodiment of the invention, the vehicle spaces are separated from each other by walls. This provides greater privacy.

[0055] Advantageously, the vehicle spaces are arranged one above the other in a direction parallel to the aisle with an offset. The offset enables each passenger to have a clear view out of the window, even if the pitch, i.e. the distance between identical components of two consecutive vehicle spaces, is small. The offset also enables the space for boarding to be increased. For example, the pitch can be less than 120 cm, preferably in the range 100-110 cm, and the offset can be less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm and most preferably less than 11 cm. A small pitch means that a particularly large number of people can be transported and is often sought after for economic reasons. The nature of the area between the aisle and the vehicle space, i.e. the area where, if applicable,a door can be arranged, has a width and height which offers sufficient space in the leg and head area to enable a person to climb from the aisle into the vehicle seat.

[0056] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the area of ​​a vehicle seat intended for the head in the seated position is located on the lower level below the seating surface of the vehicle seat above. This allows the vehicle seats to be arranged one above the other on different levels, even if the vehicle height is comparatively low. The vehicle volume intended for a vehicle seat is divided in such a way that it corresponds to the seating and reclining positions of the passenger, but unused volumes, such as the area below the seating surface, can be used for other purposes.

[0057] It can further be provided that the footwell provided in the sitting position of a vehicle space on the lower level is arranged at least partially beneath a staircase or ladder for a vehicle space on an upper level, or that a footwell is provided which allows the feet to be transferred from the aisle to the sitting position. This is particularly advantageous if the staircase or ladder has a slope where the stairs or ladder protrudes into the aisle in the lower area and / or is inclined towards the vehicle space in the upper area. With this configuration, part of the aisle volume is used as a staircase or ladder, as well as footwell for a vehicle space. The head and shoulder area, on the other hand, remains comparatively wide, so that the aisle does not feel cramped.

[0058] Advantageously, a luggage rack is provided beneath the lower vehicle seats, accessible from the aisle, vehicle seat, or adjacent vehicle seat. From the aisle, the luggage rack can also be used by someone not sitting or lying in the vehicle seat, for example, for vehicle equipment or other passengers' luggage. Alternatively, the area beneath the lower vehicle seats can be accessed from a vehicle seat, either from the vehicle seat itself or from an adjacent vehicle seat. In this case, the luggage rack is individually assigned to a vehicle seat.

[0059] The object of the invention is further achieved with a rail vehicle having a plurality of vehicle spaces arranged in an arrangement described above. In particular, it can be provided that at least one carriage comprises a first section with a herringbone arrangement of vehicle spaces and a second section with a herringbone arrangement of vehicle spaces with at least two levels.

[0060] Rail vehicles are normally equipped with bogies located in sections below the car bodies. In the sections with the bogies, there is typically insufficient remaining height to arrange the compartments on two levels. Advantageously, therefore, the section with the herringbone arrangement of vehicle spaces is arranged at least partially above the bogies. It may also be arranged that the section with the arrangement of vehicle spaces with at least two levels is located outside the area of ​​the bogies. In other words: where the bogies reduce the available volume, herringbone arrangements can be used, and double-decker compartments in the remaining areas.

[0061] The object of the invention is further achieved with a rail vehicle consisting of several connected carriages, characterized in that

[0062] (a) the number of bogies is greater than the number of car bodies and less than twice the number of car bodies,

[0063] (b) inter-vehicle gangways between adjacent car bodies are located outside the spaces above the spaces between the axles of each bogie; and

[0064] (c) double-decker areas are provided in at least one section.

[0065] It may be provided that a car body is suspended from an adjacent car body at least on one side without its own bogie.

[0066] An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the first and second sections are arranged in a car body that is suspended from an adjacent car body at least on one side without its own bogie. This car body with the first and second sections can have at least one vehicle entrance in the form of an exterior door, and at least one of the adjacent car bodies can have no exterior doors. The volume provided for the area around the exterior doors can then be used for additional vehicle spaces.

[0067] Advantageously, a wheelchair-accessible area with a wheelchair-accessible toilet and wheelchair-accessible vehicle spaces is provided in the car body comprising the first and second sections. This area is located near the exterior doors and is therefore easily accessible.

[0068] The invention shows how passenger coach units with single-deck herringbone sections and double-decker compartment sections can be implemented most advantageously. In principle, this is possible if the herringbone sections are arranged above the bogies and the compartment sections are arranged between them. In a conventional passenger coach with two bogies at both ends of the carriage, for example, it is possible to arrange entrances between the bogies and the end of the carriage.

[0069] Advantageously, passenger coaches are designed to be as wide as possible. In conventional seating coaches, additional coach width typically provides little opportunity for accommodating more passengers. The number of passengers is determined by the density, which is determined by the spacing between the seats. Additional seats in a row are associated with a loss of comfort. The slanted arrangement of the herringbone configuration allows the slant angle to be varied, resulting in a smaller pitch with a larger vehicle width and thus a higher density of vehicle seats while maintaining the same level of comfort. The nested arrangement of transverse beds in the double-decker sections allows for a smaller pitch in a wider coach, thus achieving a higher density with the same volume and comfort per passenger.

[0070] The invention is advantageously used in conjunction with short carriages, which, despite their greater width, do not violate the specified clearance gauge due to smaller chords in track curves. For regular passenger carriages with two bogies at each end and for the same train length, short carriages mean a larger total number of bogies per train. Since bogies, with their complex, safety-relevant, moving parts, represent a significant cost factor, the higher number results in higher costs for the manufacture and maintenance of the trains. To avoid this, bogies suspended between carriages are known as "Jacobs bogies." Accordingly, there are two different bogies for each carriage unit, the simultaneous use of which is associated with higher costs.

[0071] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, short double-decker carriages suspended on one or both sides are used. The shortness of the carriages allows for maximum carriage width. By suspending adjacent carriages, the total number of bogies is reduced. Because all bogies are arranged completely beneath the respective carriages, all bogies can be constructed identically. Because there are no publicly accessible staircases, the relative volume loss due to short double-decker sections is minimal.

[0072] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, two identical end cars, each with two bogies, and one car suspended in the middle without bogies are provided. The identical end cars can be short. All cars are connected to each other via inter-car gangways. Advantageously, double-decker sections can be provided in each car.

[0073] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, a central car with two bogies is provided, on each side of which an identical end car with only one bogie is suspended. The end car can be short. All cars are connected to each other via inter-car gangways. Advantageously, double-decker sections can be provided in each car.

[0074] Advantageously, several almost identical end cars can be connected directly one after the other with a bogie, whereby there are different parts, especially in small numbers, in the area of ​​the car transitions.

[0075] Advantageously, an entire night train carriage unit is reduced to two different carriage types, instead of up to five as in conventional trains. Advantageously, end carriages contain herringbone sections above the bogies and double-decker sleeping compartments in between. Middle carriages contain (wheelchair-accessible) PRM areas, a café / bistro / reception area, and all special compartments not included in the end carriages. For example, four-bed compartments accessible from a side aisle or large luxury compartments can be provided. In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, vehicle doors are provided only in the middle carriage, where entrance areas also represent the transition from the side aisle to the center aisle. This allows the number of vehicle seats in the end carriages to be maximized.

[0076] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, raised seating areas and / or beds are provided in the area above the vehicle doors, which, given limited clearance profiles and ground-level entrances, is not sufficient for an upper floor for standing. The volume above the vehicle doors, which, given limited clearance profiles and ground-level entrances, is not sufficient for an upper floor for standing, is used for raised seating areas or beds belonging to a large compartment.

[0077] The result is a completely self-contained night train carriage unit, with many necessary and comfortable amenities, in a compact format. This corresponds roughly to the length of two to two and a half conventional passenger carriages. A train can be composed of a large number, for example, four to eight, of these carriage units. Depending on demand, the number of units can be adjusted for different destinations or at different times. However, all facilities and compartment types are still available in equal proportions. At the same time, the number of different vehicle types is minimized. Only one carriage unit needs to be kept on standby at departure stations for replacement, fully compensating for the failure of individual carriages. This increases the robustness of operations. There is a high probability that replacement cars will be available. Costs are lower due to the small number of replacement vehicles required.

[0078] The invention further relates to a door that can securely separate a compartment in a vehicle from an aisle. This is necessary, for example, to create privacy for the vehicle seats, to ensure the safety of passengers, e.g., while sleeping, and to prevent objects from being stolen.

[0079] Particularly in herringbone arrangements, the clear space of the aisle has different widths, depending on the height of the level under consideration. The aisle is narrower in the lower area and wider in the upper area. Therefore, there is no common level for sliding doors along the aisle if the clear space is to be used optimally. According to the invention, good privacy is achieved with a compartment in a vehicle with at least one vehicle seat, comprising

[0080] (a) one or more side walls; and

[0081] (b) an access which can be closed by a door; characterised in that

[0082] (c) the side wall is part of a rotationally symmetrical shape; and

[0083] (d) the door has at least one door leaf which is also part of a rotationally symmetrical shape.

[0084] The side wall is therefore formed, for example, by a cylindrical shape that extends over a limited angular range. Different planes can have different radii, resulting in the shape of an angular segment of an enlarged milk jug or vase, for example. In general terms, the shape of the door leaf can also be described as consisting predominantly of a body whose intersection surface with planes vertical to the axis of rotation consists of circular ring sectors. The inner radius, outer radius, central angle and starting angle can vary depending on the plane, but the center of the ring sectors always lies on the central axis of rotation. The angular segment of the side wall can, in particular, be less than 180 degrees, for example 120 degrees. In addition, the bed projects beyond the circular line in the angular range not covered by the side wall.A neighboring compartment or corridor can in turn extend into the area of ​​the circular line.

[0085] Such compartments, especially individual compartments, are ideal for use in stacked herringbone arrangements. In particular, two vehicle spaces can be provided within the compartment, arranged one above the other. The two vehicle spaces can then use the same side wall. This can be manufactured cost-effectively.

[0086] In a further embodiment of the invention, the side wall has at least one section whose radius differs from the radius of the remaining region of the side wall, and at least one door leaf is adapted to the radii of the side wall sections. In the transition area between the sections, the side wall has increasing or decreasing radii. The side wall then has the basic shape of an enlarged milk can. Such doors will not touch or cut into the clear space in the aisle, neither when open or closed, nor in any of the intermediate positions during opening and closing. They will not impede the interior of the mini-compartments. Accordingly, passengers in the compartment cannot block the opening of the doors, for example with body parts or luggage.

[0087] When closed, additional space is created to allow access to adjacent cabins. This space can be used, for example, for a staircase or ladder to the upper compartment. The door encloses a vehicle seat when configured as a seat and adapts perfectly to its shape. This achieves a high density of vehicle seats and thus good economy. Recesses and recesses can be provided at the appropriate locations for head, foot, or entry.

[0088] In one embodiment of the invention, two door leaves are provided. Alternatively, only one door leaf is used. The door leaves rotate around the center axis of the side wall and can be guided in a guide. The vehicle space can be formed by a seat that can be converted into a bed or a lounger. This then projects beyond the circumference of the side wall. In addition, a separate slat can be provided on the door leaf. Preferably, the connection between the door leaf and the movable slat forms a straight line. If necessary, the access can also be designed irregularly and adapted to the use. For example, the angle of the opening area can be greater in the upper area than in the lower area, or cutouts or recesses can be provided for feet or head / torso when getting in and out.

[0089] Embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. One embodiment is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0090] Definitions

[0091] In this description and the appended claims, all terms have a meaning familiar to the person skilled in the art, as defined in the specialist literature, standards, and relevant internet pages and publications, particularly lexical ones, such as www.Wikipedia.de, www.wissen.de, or those of competitors, research institutes, universities, and associations. In particular, the terms used do not have the opposite meaning to what the person skilled in the art would understand from the above publications.

[0092] Short description of the drawings

[0093] Fig. l is a schematic cross-section through a carriage of a train with a central aisle and side compartments according to a first embodiment.

[0094] Fig. 2 is a schematic cross-section through a carriage of a train with a central aisle and side compartments according to a second embodiment.

[0095] Fig.3 is a cross-section through the carriage of Figure 1 with details for an exemplary

[0096] Equipment.

[0097] Fig.4 is a perspective view of the car from Figure 3, without vehicle

[0098] exterior walls

[0099] Fig.5 is a perspective view of the carriage from Figure 3, cut in comparison with Figure 4, with a horizontal cutting plane in the upper area of ​​the lower compartments.

[0100] Fig.6 is a perspective view of the carriage from Figure 3, cut differently from Figures 4 and 5, with a horizontal section plane in the area of ​​the beds in the lower compartments, under the central aisle.

[0101] Fig.7 is a plan view of the interior of the car of Figure 3 along a

[0102] Sectional plane in the upper deck compartments.

[0103] Fig. 8 is a plan view of the carriage of Figure 3, taken along a section plane slightly lower than the section plane in Figure 7, above the compartment floor of the upper deck. Fig. 9 is a plan view of the carriage of Figure 3, taken along a central section plane slightly lower than the section plane in Figure 8, in the upper area of ​​the lower compartments.

[0104] Fig.10 is a longitudinal section through the carriage of Figure 3 along a lower cutting plane, in the bed area of ​​the lower compartments, under the central aisle.

[0105] Fig.11 shows various isometric views with section planes perpendicular to the direction of travel of the car from Figure 3.

[0106] Fig. l2a)-d) show cross-sections of compartment walls between adjacent compartments with bulges and various possible uses.

[0107] Fig.12e) shows a plan view of a single compartment from Figure 12a)-d).

[0108] Fig.13 is an isometric view of compartments with a compartment wall from Figure 12 with vehicle spaces in the form of seats, showing the positions of the backrest and bed slope for the seat position with armrest folded out or folded in, as well as the backrest and bed slope in the bed position.

[0109] Fig.14 shows the arrangement from Figure 13 as a perspective view, partially showing a compartment with two or three sleeping places.

[0110] Fig.15 is a perspective view of a compartment on the upper deck with seating, a bathroom and a large bed.

[0111] Fig.16 is a perspective view of a single compartment in the lower deck with additional luggage compartments as well as a compartment with two lower beds and an additional bunk bed.

[0112] Fig.17 is a plan view of compartments on the upper deck corresponding to Figure 15.

[0113] Fig. 18 shows a first variant of the compartments from Figure 17 with facing seats at the window and an interior wet room. Fig. 19 shows a second variant of the compartments from Figure 17 with facing seats at the window, an exterior wet room, and slightly slanted beds.

[0114] Fig.20 shows a third variant of the compartments from Figure 17, which are designed as individual compartments and have a partition wall lengthwise above the aisle.

[0115] Fig.2 la) shows a fourth variant of the compartments of Figure 17, in which single compartments of Figure 20 and double compartments of Figure 17 are combined in different sections of a single vehicle.

[0116] Fig.21b) shows an eighth variant of the compartments from Figure 17, in which the individual cabins consist of

[0117] Figure 20 and double compartments from Figure 18 are combined in different sections of a single vehicle.

[0118] Fig.22 shows a fifth variant of the compartments of Figure 17, in which the beds are arranged with alternating orientation and foldable seats are provided.

[0119] Fig.23 shows a sixth variant of the compartments from Figure 17, in which the lying direction on the beds extends in the direction of travel, partly with cutouts in the corners of the beds.

[0120] Fig.24 shows a seventh variant of the compartments of Figure 17, in which the beds are arranged diagonally and a wide seat is provided.

[0121] Fig.25 is a sectional view of compartments in the lower deck corresponding to Figure 10.

[0122] Fig.26 shows a first variant of the compartments from Figure 25 with wider compartments, in which the

[0123] Beds are arranged at an angle, which allows the width of the vehicles to be reduced or the length of the beds to be increased without the beds protruding into adjacent compartments.

[0124] Fig.27 shows a second variant of the compartments from Figure 25 with individual compartments, which

[0125] Double compartments are convertible, with different seats in night position or day position, as well as different positions of the partitions to create double or single compartments.

[0126] Fig.28a) is an isometric view of a vehicle section without upper deck with

[0127] Configuration of compartments in the lower deck, partially above the central aisle for high-floor vehicles with a smaller available cross-section for passenger compartments.

[0128] Fig.28b) shows a cross-section of the vehicle section from Figure 28a).

[0129] Fig.28c) shows a schematic plan view of the vehicle section from Figure 28a).

[0130] Fig.28d) shows in a cross-section and two corresponding longitudinal sections a configuration of compartments with lower deck and central aisle but without the upper deck, for carriages with a smaller available cross-section for passenger compartments, here shown as a high-floor carriage with a smaller width and diagonally arranged beds in the compartments.

[0131] Fig.29 shows a configuration of compartments in the upper deck for carriages with lower

[0132] Cross section according to Figure 2.

[0133] Fig.30 shows a variant of a configuration of compartments for one or two persons each, in the lower deck for carriages with a smaller cross-section according to Figure 2.

[0134] Fig.31 shows a configuration of compartments for carriages with a smaller cross-section according to Figure 2 with seats that can be converted into beds.

[0135] Fig.32 shows a configuration of compartments for carriages with very small cross-section or for buses, aircraft or narrow ships.

[0136] Fig.33 shows a first variant of the configuration from Figure 32; with seating direction on a

[0137] Side of the vehicle opposite the seating direction on the other vehicle.

[0138] Fig. 34 shows a second variant of the configuration in Fig. 32, with the same seating orientation on both sides of the vehicle. Fig. 35 schematically illustrates vehicle seats arranged along an aisle in a stacked herringbone configuration, with the seating orientation facing outward, with a ladder for accessing the upper seats arranged along the center aisle.

[0139] Fig.36 shows a variant of the arrangement of Figure 35, with the seating direction facing outwards, with a ladder for reaching the upper seats arranged along the oblique axis of the vehicle seats.

[0140] Fig.37 shows a second variant of the arrangement in Figure 35, with the seats facing the central aisle and a large offset of the seats between the levels to allow space for entry for lower and upper seats.

[0141] Fig.38 is a detailed representation of the arrangement of Figure 36 with an exemplary equipment, with a top view and two cross sections along the seating direction, one with vehicle seats in the sitting position and one with vehicle seats in the lying position.

[0142] Fig.39 is a perspective view of the arrangement of Fig. 36 with a section in the seating direction, in which the vehicle seats are arranged in a seating position.

[0143] Fig.40 is a further perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 39 in which the

[0144] Vehicle seats are arranged in a lying position and the doors are closed.

[0145] Fig.41 is a perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 36 with a section direction transverse to the seating direction, in which the vehicle seats are arranged in a seating position.

[0146] Fig.42 shows a further view of the arrangement of Figure 39 with section in the direction of the seat, with section in the opposite direction relative to Figure 39

[0147] Fig.43 shows a further view of the arrangement from Figure 42 with vehicle seats in

[0148] Reclining position. Fig. 44 is a perspective side view of the arrangement of Fig. 36 from the aisle, slightly from above, with the vehicle seats arranged in a sitting position.

[0149] Fig.45 is a side view of the arrangement of Figure 36 from the outside without outer wall and

[0150] Window where the vehicle seats are arranged in a seating position.

[0151] Fig.46 is a side view of the arrangement of Figure 36 from the outside and slightly from above, with the vehicle seats arranged in a lying position and the doors closed.

[0152] Fig.47 is a further perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 36, with a horizontal section plane just above the seating surface of the lower vehicle seats in the seating position.

[0153] Fig.48 is a further perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 36, with the horizontal section plane higher relative to Figure 47, just above the level of the armrests, with vehicle seats in the seated position.

[0154] Fig.49 is a further perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 36, with the same horizontal section as in Figure 38 but with the vehicle seats in the lying position and the doors closed.

[0155] Fig.50 is a further perspective view of the arrangement from Figure 36, with a horizontal sectional plane in the head area of ​​the lower vehicle seats and the foot area of ​​the upper vehicle seats, showing the division of the plane in the area for the head area of ​​the lower vehicle seats and the foot area for upper seats, including the possibility of access from the ladder to the upper seats.

[0156] Fig.51 is a further perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 36, with a horizontal section plane above the armrest of the upper vehicle seats, with the vehicle seats in the seated position.

[0157] Fig. 52 is a further perspective view of the arrangement of Fig. 51, with vehicle seats in the reclining position. Fig. 53 is a perspective top view of the arrangement of Fig. 36, with vehicle seats arranged on either side of a central aisle, with luggage racks arranged above the aisle, which are accessible to the upper vehicle seats.

[0158] Fig.54 is a further perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 53, sectioned along the central axis of the vehicle spaces.

[0159] Fig.55 is a horizontal section through a complete carriage unit consisting of a single passenger car, in which various compartments and vehicle spaces are combined with further functionalities, with areas with upper floors shown separately.

[0160] Fig.56 is a further perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 55, sectioned along the central axis of the vehicle spaces.

[0161] Fig.57 is a horizontal section through a complete carriage unit consisting of two identical end carriages, each with two bogies, and a suspended middle carriage without bogies, with various compartments and vehicle spaces combined with additional functionalities in the carriage unit, with areas with upper floors being shown separately.

[0162] Fig.58 is a vertical section through the carriage of Figure 57.

[0163] Fig.59 is a horizontal section through a complete wagon unit consisting of two identical end wagons, each with one bogie.

[0164] Fig.60 is a vertical section through the car from Figure 59.

[0165] Fig.61 is a horizontal section through a complete carriage unit consisting of four

[0166] End cars with one bogie each.

[0167] Fig.62 is a vertical section through the carriage of Figure 61. Fig.63 is a schematic plan view of two coupled double-decker passenger carriages in a curved track according to the prior art.

[0168] Fig.64 is a plan view of the vehicle from Figure 57.

[0169] Fig.65 is a plan view of the vehicle from Figure 59.

[0170] Fig.66a) is an isometric representation of the entrance area of ​​a passenger carriage with a large compartment located above it on the upper floor, which has no standing areas in the area above the entrances, but rather raised seating areas and / or beds.

[0171] Fig.66b) is an isometric view of the lower floor of the vehicle area from

[0172] Figure 66a)

[0173] Fig.66c) is a schematic plan view of the vehicle area from Figure 66a).

[0174] Fig.66d) shows a schematic plan view of the vehicle area from Figure 66b).

[0175] Fig.67 shows a schematic cross-section of a vehicle with a central aisle and mini-compartments arranged on both sides in a double-decker arrangement

[0176] Fig.68 shows a schematic plan view of a mini-compartment with bed.

[0177] Fig.69a) shows a schematic isometric view of the door for the mini-compartment from Figure 68 with the door open.

[0178] Fig.69b) shows the arrangement from Figure 69a) with the door half closed.

[0179] Fig.69c) shows the arrangement from Figure 69a) with the door closed.

[0180] Fig. 70a) is a schematic isometric view of an open door for a mini-compartment. Fig. 70b) shows the arrangement of Figure 70a) with the door half-closed.

[0181] Fig.70c) shows the arrangement from Figure 70a) with the door closed.

[0182] Fig.71 is a schematic plan view of several overhead mini-compartments with herringbone seating in a double-decker arrangement.

[0183] Fig.72 is a perspective view of a series of mini-compartments with herringbone

[0184] Seats in double-decker arrangement.

[0185] Fig.73 shows a perspective view according to Figure 72, from further above.

[0186] Description of the embodiments

[0187] 1. Example (Fig.L 3-27)

[0188] Figure 1 shows a cross-section of a railway carriage, generally designated 12. The railway carriage 12 has a shell 10, which defines the volume available for transporting passengers. Such carriages 12 are generally known and therefore need not be described in detail here.

[0189] The railway carriage is elongated and has a central aisle 14. In the present embodiment, the central aisle 14 extends over the entire length of the carriage 12. The central aisle 14 has a floor 16, side walls 18, and a ceiling 20. Compartments 22 and 24 for passengers extend on both sides of the central aisle 14. The compartments 22, 24 are distributed over two floors, namely an upper deck 26 and a lower deck 28. The lower deck 28 has a floor 30 that runs below the floor 16 of the central aisle 14. The upper deck 26 has a floor 32 that runs above the floor 16 of the central aisle. Stairways 34 are arranged between the central aisle 14 and the compartments 22 of the lower deck 28. Stairways 36 are arranged between the central aisle 14 and the compartments 24 of the upper deck 26.Since the full height of a floor does not have to be overcome, the stairs 34 and 36 are comparatively short, although the number of steps to the upper deck and lower deck can be different. This allows for effective use of the available space. In the present embodiment, three steps are provided to the lower deck and six to eight steps to the upper deck. The stairs 36 to the upper deck can incorporate a vehicle window or other opening to the outside, which can be used as an emergency exit. It is understood that ladders, ramps, or elevators can also be used to overcome the height difference.

[0190] The compartments 24 in the upper deck 26 extend with a lateral section 38 to the side of the central aisle 14 - on the right in Figure 1 - and with an upper section 40 above the central aisle 14. The compartments 22 of the lower deck 28 extend with a lateral section 42 to the side of the central aisle 14 - on the left in Figure 1 - and with a lower section 44 below the central aisle 14. In the present embodiment, the sections 40 also extend above the lower deck 28.

[0191] Figures 3 to 17 illustrate exemplary furnishings for compartments 22 and 24 in carriage 12. It is understood that the furnishings can also be chosen differently, depending on the desired level of comfort, the number of passengers to be transported, and / or the financial resources available for the furnishings. Adaptation to regional travel and everyday habits, for example, can also be taken into account when furnishing the train.

[0192] The central aisle 14 in the carriage 12 extends over the entire length and is provided with several staircases 36 and stairways 34. These are clearly visible in Figure 3, Figure 9 and Figure 11. The staircases 34 into the compartments 22 of the lower deck 28 are formed by two steps within the compartments 22. The staircases 36 into the compartments 24 of the upper deck 26 have a few more steps. In the present embodiment, each compartment 22 of the lower deck 28 is provided with its own staircase 34. This is clearly visible in Figure 5. Two adjacent compartments 24 of the upper deck 26 can each be reached via a common staircase 36. The staircases 36 are therefore located outside the compartments 24. This is clearly visible in Figure 4.

[0193] Side walls 18 separate the central aisle 14 from the compartments 22 and 24. The side walls 18 are not flat, but are provided with bulges in the form of ledges 46. Above the ledges 46, i.e. in the head and torso area, the central aisle 14 is wider than in the leg and foot area. This can be clearly seen in Figure 3. The ledges 46 reduce the space in the central aisle 14 and increase it in the adjacent compartments 22, 24. In the upper area of ​​the side walls 18, luggage compartments 48 are recessed, which can be provided with a lockable flap. The flap lies in the plane of the upper part of the side wall 18. Luggage therefore does not have to be carried all the way into the compartment 24, but can be deposited there from the central aisle 14. The luggage compartments 48 extend into the area of ​​the compartments 24 in the upper deck 26. The volume they occupy there is below seats 50. This can be clearly seen in Figure 3.Depending on the design, the luggage compartment 48 can be provided with an additional flap which is accessible from the compartment 24.

[0194] The compartments 24 in the upper deck 26 each have two seats 50. The seats face the window. The space in front of the seats 50 is comparatively high, allowing standing space. This can be clearly seen in Figure 3. In the present exemplary embodiment, two seats 50 are provided in each of the compartments 24 in the upper deck 26. It is understood that more or fewer seats can be provided and the seats can have a different orientation, as shown by way of example in Figures 17-24. Section 40 of the compartment 24 extends above the central aisle 14 and above the compartments 22 on the other side of the central aisle 14. The height in section 40 is less than in section 38. A wide bed 52 for two people is arranged in this section. It is understood that it is also possible to arrange two single beds next to each other.

[0195] The compartments 24 in the upper deck 26 are arranged in alternating pairs. In two adjacent compartments, the beds 52 are arranged on one side of the carriage 12, and in the following two adjacent compartments, on the other side. This is clearly visible in Figure 4. Accordingly, the staircases 36 provided for these adjacent compartments each lead off the central aisle 14 on one side, and the subsequent staircase 36 leads off the central aisle 14 on the other side.

[0196] The alternating arrangement creates space for a wet room 54, for example with a toilet, sink and / or shower. The wet rooms 54 of the compartments 24 in the upper deck 26 are always arranged on the side of the side section 38 of each compartment facing away from the staircase 36 and also have a height sufficient for standing. The alternating design allows easy access to the wet room from the side sections 38. Two wet rooms are located in the same area in the longitudinal direction. This means that between two compartments in the upper deck 26 there is always either the associated staircase 36 or the associated wet rooms. This can be clearly seen in Figure 7. In the present exemplary embodiments, the wet rooms 54 are each separated from the rest of the compartment by a door.

[0197] In the present embodiment, the wet room 54 is provided with a recess 56 in the toilet area (Fig. 3). The recess 56 extends below the bed 52 in the adjacent compartment 24.

[0198] In the present embodiment, the seats 50 are arranged side by side and facing out the opposite window. A table 78 is located between them. The space below the table 78, as well as the space below the sink 80 in the wet room 54, form the upper part (head area) of a lower exit 34. This can be seen in Figures 11 and 15.

[0199] Figures 18-24 show variants of the arrangement described in detail above, which is shown in Figure 17 on the same scale as the variants in Figures 18-24. The sectional plane is at the same height in all figures. In the variant shown in Figure 18, the seats 58 are provided opposite each other directly next to the window. The wet rooms 55 are arranged inside without a window. Figure 19 shows a variant with a slightly modified arrangement of the bed 60, which is now arranged at an angle so that the wet room 57 is still arranged outside. Figure 20 shows a variant of the division of the upper deck compartments, in which individual compartments are arranged next to one another. A central wall 59 divides the area above the aisle 14 evenly among the compartments. Each compartment has its own wet room 61 and its own seat 63 facing the window. The single bed 65 extends above the aisle.The foot area of ​​the bed 65 is somewhat narrower and located behind the seat 63. The remaining area of ​​the bed 63 is somewhat wider. It is understood that the various compartments, for example, the double compartments shown in Figure 17 and the single compartments shown in Figure 20, can be combined in one carriage. This is illustrated by way of example in Figure 21a). A combination of the double compartments shown in Figure 18 with the single compartments shown in Figure 20 is illustrated by way of example in Figure 21b.

[0200] Figure 22 shows an arrangement of double compartments in which the orientation of the beds 67 is arranged alternately and not, for example, in pairs, as in Figure 17. A two-part, wide double seat 69 is arranged in front of the beds 67. The backrest 71 of the double seat 69 is also formed in two parts, and each part of the backrest 71 can be folded down separately. The folded backrest 71 forms part of the bed 67. On the side of the bed 67 facing away from the double seat 69, two external wet rooms 73 are arranged, each belonging to the adjacent compartments.

[0201] Figure 23 shows a variant of the upper-deck compartments, where the beds 75 extend in the direction of travel. In the foot area, the beds 75 are somewhat narrower, thus leaving space for an external wet room 77. Similar to Figure 22, double seats 79 are arranged on the side facing away from the wet room.

[0202] The orientation of the beds 81 does not necessarily have to be exactly transverse or longitudinal to the direction of travel. Figure 24 shows a variant of the upper deck compartments in which the beds are arranged diagonally. The bathrooms 83 are located in the wedge-shaped areas between the outer wall and the bed.

[0203] The compartments 22 of the lower deck 28 have a different layout than the compartments 24 of the upper deck 26. This is clearly visible in Figures 5 and 6, as well as in Figures 10, 11, and 25. Instead of a large bed 52, compartments 64 with only a single bed 68 or compartments 66 with two separate beds 62 are provided. In the compartments 66 with two separate beds 62, the steps of the exit 34 are arranged between the beds 62. In the compartments 64 with only one bed 68, the steps of the exit 34 are arranged next to the bed.

[0204] In the present embodiment, beds 62 and 68 extend transversely to the direction of travel. It is understood that a different orientation, such as diagonally or in the direction of travel, may also be provided. This is illustrated by way of example in Figure 26. In the arrangement shown in Figure 26, beds 87 are arranged diagonally. The beds 87 in Figure 26 are somewhat longer than the beds 62 and 68 in Figure 25 and are somewhat less interlaced below the aisle 14. The compartments are somewhat wider in this variant.

[0205] Figure 27 illustrates a bed arrangement in which two adjacent individual compartments 22, each with its own access via a door 103 on the lower deck, are separated from each other by a retractable partition 99. The remaining partitions 108 are fixed. With such an arrangement, the compartment sizes can be adapted to demand. The foot area 101 for the combineable compartments can be arranged at different heights. The passenger compartment can be designed as a seat 105 with a backrest and armrests or as a bed. In this case, the backrest and armrests are in a night position 107. The stairs to the upper deck are designated 109.

[0206] The headboard 70 (Fig. 6) of each bed 62 and 68 in the lower deck is arranged on the window side in the illustrated embodiments. The footboard 72 of each bed 62 and 68, in the case of beds arranged transversely to the direction of travel, is arranged on the side facing away from the window below the aisle 14. The footboard 72 is narrower than the headboard 70. A gap 92 is provided between the footboard 72 and the stairs 34 to facilitate entry into the bed 62. This is clearly visible in Figure 14. The footboards 72 of the beds from opposite compartments of the lower deck 28 are alternately nested in the area below the aisle 14 and each extend into the area below the steps of the exit 34 of an opposite compartment. This is clearly visible in Figure 6. The shape of the walls 74 between the compartments is adapted to the shape of the beds 62 and 68. Another bed 86 is arranged in compartment 22 in the direction of travel above the beds 68.This is clearly visible in Figure 8 and Figure 16. The bed 86 is accessible via a ladder 88.

[0207] Each of the compartments 22 and 24 is equipped with storage space for luggage and the like. The storage space 76 in compartment 24 of the upper deck 26 is clearly visible in Figure 15. In the present embodiment, the storage space 76 is arranged between the walls of two bathrooms 54 and is separated into an upper and a lower section by a shelf. It is located next to the bed 52.

[0208] In the lower compartments 22, luggage racks 82 are arranged above the beds 62 and 68. This can be clearly seen in Figure 16. Another luggage rack 84 is arranged in the upper area of ​​the compartment 22. In addition to the luggage racks 82 and 84 and the luggage compartments 48, there are also large luggage compartments 90 below the beds 52 in the compartment 24 and above the compartments 22 with only one bed 62. They are arranged at the same height as the upper beds 86 of the compartments 22, which are also located below the beds 52. The luggage compartments 90 are designed as lockers and are only accessible from the aisle 14. This can be clearly seen in Figure 8. In the lower compartments 22, handrails 94 are also provided.

[0209] Figures 12 to 14 illustrate how the compartments 22 of the lower deck 28 are nested. Figure 12 schematically illustrates individual compartments with beds 62 that can be converted into seats. In Figure 12a, the armrest and backrest 96 are in a lower seating position. The seat surface is pivoted slightly upward.

[0210] The wall 98 has a recess 100 that extends into the area of ​​the neighboring compartment on the same side of the carriage. Figure 12a) shows that the legs of a seated person can fit in the area under this recess. A screen 97, for example a multimedia screen, can be attached to the wall 98 opposite the seating position. Figure 12b) illustrates that the space between the wall 98 in the area of ​​the recess 100 and the seat surface 104 is sufficient for a person 102 to also stand in front of the seat. A folding table 106 is attached to the wall 98 and, when folded down, is supported by the horizontal part of the wall 98 in the area of ​​the recess. Alternatively, the folding table can be attached or recessed in the lower area of ​​the wall 98. The folding table can be folded up into the horizontal position or pushed up and folded down. This is illustrated in Figure 12c).Depending on the version, a multimedia screen 97 is attached to the wall 98.

[0211] To convert the seat into a bed 62, the backrest 96 can be pushed upward or folded upward and locked in place. The seat surface is pivoted into a horizontal position. This is illustrated in Figure 12d). The recess 100 provides sufficient space even for a person's broader upper body. A luggage rack 82 is provided in the upper area above the seat. The luggage rack 82 is located on a wall section that is offset inward at head height. The offset 111 provides more space in the adjacent compartment in the area of ​​the head of a standing person. This is clearly visible in Figure 12b).

[0212] A slanted recess 113 is provided between compartment walls 98 and vehicle window 115. The recess 113 has the effect of the space of a larger compartment. This is illustrated in Figure 12e). Figure 12e is a plan view of an individual compartment. A schematic representation of a seated passenger and the passenger's field of vision from vehicle window 115 can be seen. The recess between the compartment walls and the vehicle wall allows the window to be installed along the vehicle wall into the recess further in the direction of vision. This, in turn, allows a view further along the passenger's line of sight. It simulates the passenger view with the window of a larger compartment with a corresponding increase in comfort. The vehicle window 115 is installed offset in the recess 113. This allows the passenger 102 a view into the distance in the direction of the seat. From the passenger's perspective, limited by lines of sight 117 and 123, the vehicle window corresponds to that of a larger compartment.

[0213] The bulge 119 of the rear compartment relative to the passenger position reduces the rearward view relative to the passenger's seating direction. This has little impact on the spatial impression. The passenger only sees this when turning their head almost 90 degrees toward the window. The bulges themselves are arranged at an angle. This corresponds to an angle approximately equal to the line of sight 117 from passenger 102 to the outermost point of window 121.

[0214] A multimedia screen 97 can be mounted on the wall 98 directly in front of the passenger. The screen can also be perceived as a kind of window. This has a positive effect on the spatial effect.

[0215] 2, Example (Fig, 2, 28-31)

[0216] Figure 2 shows an embodiment, explained in detail below, with a carriage 112 of lower height and width than in Figure 1. In this embodiment, an off-center aisle 114 is provided. One of the side compartments 122—on the left in Figure 2—is correspondingly narrower and is equipped differently than the other side compartment 124, which has a greater width. Figures 29 to 31 show embodiments corresponding to the schematically illustrated cross-section in Figure 2 with a smaller volume.

[0217] Figure 28 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the embodiment shown in Figure 2 with a central aisle. Figure 28a) shows a vehicle section with compartments in the lower deck and a central aisle partially above, but without an upper deck for cars with a smaller available cross-section for passenger compartments. This embodiment is a high-floor car. Figures 28a)-d) illustrate various sections that clarify the interior configuration. The embodiment shown contains several single and double or triple compartments as well as a central aisle and emergency exits, which are described in detail below. Figures 28a) to 28d) show a cross-section through the alternative compartments 222 and 224 to the side of a central aisle 214. Also shown are two horizontal sections at a level just below the longitudinal aisle and at a higher level just above the alternative upper bed 286.In these embodiments, no upper deck is provided above the central aisle and to the side of the central aisle above the lower compartments.

[0218] Compartments 222 and 224 are equipped with sleeping berths 226 and 228, which extend below aisle 214. Sleeping berths 226 are part of a multi-bed compartment. Sleeping berths 228 are part of a single-bed compartment. All sleeping berths 226 and 228 have a foot area with a smaller diameter than the rest of the area. This foot area 272 is located below aisle 214. Figures 28a-d clearly show how the sleeping berths, separated by partition walls 230, are interlaced in the area below aisle 214. In this way, the sleeping berths can be arranged essentially transversely to the direction of travel, even with a narrower width of carriage 212.

[0219] In the bed area, compartment walls have a bulge 200 to expand the space directly above the bed and allow for a more comfortable bed and / or a higher density of compartments with similar levels of comfort. In addition to the sleeping berths 226 and 228, some space 232 is provided for standing and for the stairs 234. Space 232 leads to the central aisle via a compartment door 203.

[0220] The bed and seat are convertible into one another. In the lower position, a bed 222 is formed together with the space 272 under the center aisle in a single-bed compartment or a bed 224 in a multi-bed compartment. In the upper position, a seat 204 is formed together with the backrest. The backrest can be moved between a day position 295 and a night position 296. The day position 295 allows for comfortable, ergonomic seating. In the night position 296, a wider bed with more space above the bed is created.

[0221] Luggage racks 282 are provided in the upper areas of the compartments. Multimedia devices such as a screen 97 are available in compartments opposite the seat for work or relaxation. A folding table 106 is also located in the compartment. Grab rails 294 allow safe use of the stairs and facilitate exit from the bed. A tapered section 246 in the lower area of ​​the central aisle 214 allows for wider passenger compartments 222 and 224. The tapered section 246 facilitates access to the beds by shortening the footwell 272.

[0222] A third bed 286 can be arranged at a higher level in the direction of travel. The bed 286 can be moved upwards. In the upper position 289 (Fig. 28b), the bed 286 requires less space in the compartment. Between the compartment backs, for example in a multi-bed compartment 222, a space 235 can be provided which allows direct access from the central aisle to a window. This space 235 can serve, for example, as an emergency exit or for luggage racks or luggage compartments. The area above this space can be used for the raised bed 286 of the multi-bed compartment. The space at the interface between the central aisle 14 and the emergency exit 235 can be used to allow oncoming passengers to pass. The vehicle sections are shown in Figure 28 with outer shell 210 and windows 215.

[0223] In Figure 28d), a space 92 is provided between a partition wall 230 or the stairs 234 and the beds 226 and 228, facilitating entry into the sleeping position. In multi-bed compartments, a space 232 is provided between two beds. In Figure 28d), the beds are arranged at an angle to allow for long beds despite the narrower carriage width.

[0224] In the embodiments shown in Figures 2 and 29 to 31, the aisle is located off-center, and compartments on the upper and lower decks are arranged with beds above or below the aisle on one side only. On the opposite side, vehicle seats are located directly along the aisle.

[0225] Figure 29 illustrates exemplary arrangements of compartments 236 on the upper deck. The compartments have a double bed 238, which also extends into the area above the aisle 214. Seats 242 are arranged in the area to the side of the aisle, which are oriented opposite one another in the direction of travel and against the direction of travel. A staircase 244 is arranged between each two compartments, via which the two compartments 236 on the upper deck can be accessed. The upper deck compartments shown in Figure 29 are equipped with an internal wet room 240. The wet rooms 240 of two adjacent compartments are arranged adjacent to each other so that the connections for electricity, wastewater, and water can be shared. Figure 30 shows an alternative design of the sleeping berths 246 and 248. In this variant, all sleeping berths are arranged on the same side of the carriage and are not intersected.

[0226] The width of the carriages shown in Figures 28 to 31 only allows for a narrower volume on the side of the aisle 114 facing away from the compartments 236. Figure 31 is a vertical section through an exemplary arrangement of vehicle seats on this side of the aisle. Seats 250 that can be converted into sleeping berths 252 are arranged at different levels in the direction of travel or against the direction of travel and are accessible from the aisle. Luggage compartments 254 are arranged beneath the vehicle seats.

[0227] 3, Example of implementation (Fig, 32-34)

[0228] For vehicles with a very small vehicle profile, arrangements can be used that are shown by way of example in Figures 32 to 34. Such vehicles include, for example, narrow-gauge vehicles, barges, buses, airplanes, or passenger coaches in countries with small loading gauges, such as Great Britain. The compartments of the upper deck 310 have beds 312 above a central aisle 314, which extend transversely to the direction of travel and are located approximately at shoulder or head height in the upper deck compartments. Below the beds 312 are seats 316 that extend in the direction of travel. If a sitting position is required, the bed 312 can be folded up. This is clearly visible in Figure 32.

[0229] The compartments on the lower deck 318 have beds 320 which extend transversely to the direction of travel and are partially arranged below the aisle 314. By folding down or sliding down a backrest 322 and, if necessary, armrests, the beds 320 can be converted into one or more seats. The space in front of the seats or next to the beds 320 on the lower deck extends below the seats on the upper deck. This is clearly visible in Figure 32. The compartments on the lower deck 318 have a height in this area at which one can stand. Additional seats are arranged next to the foot of the beds. Figure 33 shows a variant in which steps 324 are arranged between the beds. Figure 34 shows a variant in which identical cabins are arranged on both sides of the aisle, but with different seating directions on the two sides.

[0230] 4, Embodiment (Figs. 35-54) Figures 35 to 54 show embodiments with a reclining seat concept corresponding to “stacked herringbone seating.” Figures 35 to 37 schematically show three different embodiments in which the seating direction 416 on one side of the aisle 414 is opposite to the seating direction on the other side of the aisle. It is understood that arrangements are also possible in which the seating directions on different sides of the aisle 414 can have an angle of, for example, 90 degrees to one another, resulting in the eponymous herringbone pattern. The seating direction in Figures 35 and 36 as well as 38 to 54 is such that a seated passenger faces the window. In Figure 37, the seating direction is such that a seated passenger faces the aisle.

[0231] Figures 35 to 37 show two levels arranged one above the other with vehicle spaces. The vehicle spaces 410 in the lower level are shown in dashed lines. The vehicle spaces 412 on the upper level are shown in solid lines. In the exemplary embodiments of Figures 35 and 36, the vehicle spaces 412 on the upper level are arranged approximately above the vehicle spaces 410 on the lower level, except for a slight offset 418 in the longitudinal direction 420. In Figure 37, the offset between the vehicle spaces 410 on the lower level and the vehicle spaces 412 on the upper level corresponds to approximately half a vehicle space.

[0232] Ladders are provided to reach the vehicle seats 412 on the upper level. Ladders 422 and 426 of the arrangements shown in Figures 35 and 37 extend laterally to the longitudinal direction 420 and thus at an angle to the seating direction of the vehicle seats 410 and 412. Ladders 424 of the arrangement in Figure 36 extend in the seating direction. They extend less into the aisle 414 than ladders 422 and 426.

[0233] The embodiment shown in Figure 36 is shown in more detail in Figures 38 to 54. Figure 38 is a plan view of the arrangement from Figure 36 and illustrates section lines along the seat direction. The vehicle seats 412 are formed by seats that can be adjusted from a sitting position 428 to a reclining position 430 (Figure 38). Each seat 410, 412 has a substantially horizontal seat surface 432, a backrest 438, and armrests 434. By sliding the seat 428 forward, the backrest 438 can be brought into a horizontal position 430 in extension of the seat surface 432. The seat surface 432 is then located above a footwell 436. A wall 440 is attached behind the backrest 438. The wall 440 is curved around a vertical axis and serves as an enclosure for the vehicle space 412. The wall 440 separates the passenger from the other passengers and ensures privacy.For entry, an opening in the wall 440 is provided at the upper end of the ladder 424, which can be closed with a door 452. Figure 38 shows the arrangement with closed doors 452. It is understood that other partitions, such as a sliding door, a slatted sliding door, a folding door, a roller blind, or a sliding curtain, or combinations thereof, may also be provided.

[0234] The top view in Figure 38 clearly shows that the seating and viewing direction 446 of all vehicle seats, both above and below, runs toward the outer wall 444 of the vehicle. The wall 440 is accordingly arranged on the aisle side. The rungs or steps of the ladder 424 run laterally to the seating and viewing direction 446 (Fig. 42) in the space formed between adjacent walls 440 due to the curvature. Accordingly, the ladder 424 protrudes only slightly into the aisle 414. The upper end 450 of the ladder 424 is curved toward the seat. This curvature allows for the installation of long beds 430 on the lower level while simultaneously providing access to the upper vehicle seat 412.

[0235] The upper seats are offset from the lower seats in the direction of travel. This offset creates extra room in the head area of ​​the lower compartment. It also provides more room for entry. Entry to the upper vehicle seat 412 is via the side of the ladder 424. This can be clearly seen in Figure 44. In front of the seat 432, a footwell 436 is formed, which is accessible from the upper area of ​​the ladder 424. The footwell 436 is provided with a diagonally arranged boundary 454 at the front edge of the seat 432. The boundary and the floor 456 of the footwell 436 form the ceiling of the vehicle seat 410 located below. The slope of the boundary 454 provides slightly more room for the head of a person sitting in the vehicle seat 410 and allows a better view out of the window. This can be clearly seen in Figure 42. At foot height of the upper vehicle seat 412, the entrance is wider than in the knee area.This is achieved by utilizing the space beneath the vehicle seat in front. The backrest 438 is angled in the head area to accommodate the upper section 450 of the ladder 424 located behind it in the adjacent seat.

[0236] Figures 40 and 49 show the arrangement with closed doors 452 and the vehicle seat in the reclining position 430. Figure 47 shows that the partition wall between the vehicle seats is slightly shifted laterally in the foot area 458. This results in a greater length for the beds. The bed width is slightly narrower in the leg area to create more space for the adjacent vehicle seat.

[0237] Figure 50 clearly shows that several constraints must be considered. These constraints include access to the lower and upper vehicle seats, creating sufficient foot space at the upper vehicle seat 412, sufficient head space at the upper vehicle seat, and a clear view from the window for the lower vehicle seat 410. A greater width of access to the upper vehicle seat 412 is achieved in particular by arranging the upper and lower vehicle seats not exactly one above the other, but slightly offset in the direction of travel.

[0238] Figures 53 and 54 show luggage racks located above the center aisle. The luggage racks are accessible from the upper vehicle seats.

[0239] 5, Example of implementation (Fig, 55-66)

[0240] Figures 55 to 66 show exemplary embodiments in use in a rail vehicle. Figures 55 and 56 show a double-decker carriage. Figures 57 to 60 as well as Figures 64 and 65 show application examples based on carriage units each consisting of three short, wide and partially suspended carriages with a middle car and an end car. The exemplary embodiments differ in the length of the carriages as well as the position of the bogies and the carriage transitions. Figures 61 and 62 show an exemplary embodiment based on five carriages. Figures 66a-d) show a vehicle detail that is included in the exemplary embodiments in Figures 57 to 65.

[0241] Figures 55 and 56 show an example of how different vehicle spaces and functionalities can be implemented in a passenger car. Figure 55 is a horizontal section through a passenger car 509 with two bogies 522. Figure 56 is a vertical section through the car 509. Couplings 518 are provided at both ends, with which the car 509 can be coupled to other cars or to traction vehicles. A continuous central aisle 545 is arranged along the entire length of the passenger car. In the middle of the passenger car 509 are multi-bed compartments, which, as described above, are divided into an upper deck 524 and a lower deck 526. In front of and behind these, vehicle spaces are provided in a herringbone arrangement 528 described above, on two levels arranged one above the other.It is understood that the multi-bed compartments and herringbone arrangements can also have a different layout or that only multi-bed compartments and / or herringbone arrangements can be used.

[0242] Typically, vehicle seats in herringbone arrangements require less headroom than multi-bed compartments in a double-decker arrangement. The space under the central aisle is not used for passenger areas. Therefore, arranging the herringbone areas above the bogies is advantageous. The space 530 above the herringbone arrangements can be used, for example, to accommodate technical equipment, such as an air conditioning system. The transition area 532 between the herringbone arrangements and compartments offers space for luggage or technical equipment, for example. A toilet can also be located there. In the present embodiment, entry into the carriage is possible via entrances 534 and 536 at both ends of the carriage.

[0243] Figures 57 to 61 show two examples of how different vehicle positions, arrangements of vehicle positions and functionalities can be realized in a wagon unit.

[0244] Figure 57 shows a carriage unit 510 with a center car 514 and two end cars 512. The end cars 512 are each equipped with two bogies 522. The center car 514 is designed without a bogie and is suspended from the adjacent end cars. Figure 56 is a vertical section through the carriage unit 510.

[0245] Figure 59 shows a complete carriage unit 508 consisting of two identical or nearly identical end carriages 513, each with a bogie 522, suspended from an intermediate carriage 515 with two bogies 522. Various compartments and vehicle spaces with additional functionalities are combined in the carriage unit 508. Areas with upper floors are shown separately. Figure 60 is a vertical section through the carriage unit 510.

[0246] Car unit 510 in Figures 57 and 58 and car unit 508 in Figures 59 and 60 differ in the position of the bogies 522 and the inter-car gangways 519. They also differ in the position of some of the herringbone seats 528. In car unit 508 in Figures 59 and 60, the seats 528 are partially located in the center car 515. The shorter center car 514 in Figures 57 and 58 does not contain any herringbone seats 528.

[0247] At the ends of carriage units 508 and 509, couplings 518 are provided, with which a carriage unit can be coupled to other carriages or to traction vehicles. The carriages are connected to each other by inter-car gangways 519.

[0248] The two end cars, 512 and 513, are essentially identical. Multi-bed compartments are located in the middle, divided between an upper deck 524 and a lower deck 526. At the end of the car units, as well as for the end cars 512 with two bogies adjacent to the middle car, vehicle spaces are provided in a herringbone arrangement 528 on two levels arranged one above the other. It is understood that the multi-bed compartments and herringbone arrangements can also be arranged differently, or that only multi-bed compartments and / or herringbone arrangements can be used.

[0249] Typically, vehicle spaces in herringbone arrangements require less headroom than multi-bed compartments in a double-decker arrangement. In herringbone arrangements, the space below the central aisle is not used for passenger areas, which is why the arrangement of the herringbone areas above the bogies is advantageous. Space 530 above the herringbone arrangements can be used, for example, to accommodate technical equipment, such as an air conditioning system. The transition area 532 between the herringbone arrangements and compartments offers space for luggage or technical equipment. A toilet can also be located there.

[0250] In the present exemplary embodiments, entry into the carriage units 508 and 510 is possible via entrances 534 and 536 in the intermediate carriage 514 and 515. The entrances can be installed at different heights to enable level entry on platforms of different heights. The height can be, for example, 55 cm or 76 cm above the top of the rail. This is particularly convenient for wheelchair users. Special compartments and functionalities can be provided between the entrances, such as wheelchair-accessible compartments 538 and / or toilets 539 accessible via ramps, service compartments and / or a café and / or a kiosk 540. Furthermore, an additional compartment 555 can be provided, which also serves as a luggage or bicycle compartment. A reception desk can also be located in the intermediate carriage. In the present exemplary embodiment, the intermediate carriage 515 is double-decker.On the lower deck, there is a side aisle 553, and on the upper deck, there is a side aisle 554 on the opposite side of the vehicle. These areas are connected by a staircase 549. Additional compartments 542 are provided on the upper deck. Large compartments 544 with a toilet and / or shower 552 are provided above the entrances. The compartments 544 do not have standing areas in the area above the entrances. Instead, raised seating areas 551 and / or beds 550 are arranged there. The seating areas 551 and / or beds 550 allow for more space in the entrance area below.

[0251] Figures 59 and 60 show a wagon unit 507 with a middle wagon 515 with two bogies 522. A total of four wagons 520 and 521 are suspended on one side. On the other side they have a bogie 522. The inner wagons 520 are connected by two fixed inter-wagon couplings 519. The outer wagons 521 have a fixed inter-wagon coupling 519 on one side and a coupler 518 on the other side. The wagons 520 and 521 with only one bogie are largely identical in construction. They differ particularly in the design of the outer wagon ends. The wagons 520 and 521 with one bogie are largely identical in construction to the wagon 513 with only one bogie from the previous application example. In addition to the design of the wagon ends, they differ in the presence of vehicle entrances.It is understood that it is also possible to use more or fewer inner, single-sidedly suspended carriages 520 or to provide a different number of carriages on one side and the other of the intermediate carriage 515. It is also possible to provide the entrances 556 not in all carriages 520, 521 with a bogie, but only in some of those carriages.

[0252] Fig. 61 shows a complete carriage unit with four almost identical end cars, each with a single bogie. Two end cars are suspended one from each other, the other from a middle car with two bogies. Various compartments and vehicle spaces are combined within the carriage unit with additional functions. Areas with upper floors are shown separately.

[0253] Figures 63 to 65 show schematic plan views of rail vehicles in curves and compare the exemplary embodiments according to the invention in Figures 57 to 59 with known vehicles. Figure 63 shows two double-decker passenger carriages 509 known from the prior art. The carriages each have two bogies 522 and one double-decker section 559 per carriage. The carriages are located in a curved track. The curved track is represented by two rails 570 and is delimited by the track gauge. The track gauge is illustrated by an inner boundary line 571 and an outer boundary line 572. The carriages have relatively long double-decker sections but are not very wide.

[0254] Figure 64 shows the embodiment from Figures 57 and 58, i.e., the carriage unit 510 with suspended intermediate carriages, analogous to Figure 63. Here, too, the bogies 522 and the double-decker sections 562 of the end carriages 512, as well as the intermediate carriage 514 without bogies with double-decker sections 564, are shown. The carriages have three shorter double-decker sections instead of two, while being the same length, and are significantly wider than the state of the art, with the same number of conventional, identically constructed bogies 522.

[0255] Figure 65 shows the embodiment from Figures 59 and 60, i.e., the carriage unit 508 with single-sided suspended end carriages, analogous to Figure 63. Here, too, the bogies 522 and the double-decker sections 563 of the end carriages 513, as well as the intermediate carriage 515 without bogies with double-decker sections 565, are shown. The carriages have three shorter double-decker sections instead of two, while being the same length, and are significantly wider than the state of the art, with the same number of conventional, identically constructed bogies 522.

[0256] Figures 66 a)-d) show a vehicle detail of the intermediate carriage from the exemplary embodiments in Figures 57 to 65. Shown is the entrance area 534 of an intermediate carriage, with a large compartment 544 above it, including a toilet 552. The large compartment has no standing areas in the area above the entrance area 535 and the lower side aisle 547, but rather raised seating areas 551, storage areas 567 and / or beds 550, which allow more space in the entrance area below. There are side aisles in both the upper area 548 and the lower area 547, which are arranged on opposite sides of the vehicle. This achieves a low overall height of the vehicle if no standing areas are provided above the lower side aisle and / or below the upper side aisle.Below the large compartment 544, in the areas outside the entrance areas 535 and the side aisle 547, another smaller compartment 555 can be provided, which can also be designed as a luggage or bicycle compartment. It goes without saying that the large compartment can also be designed without a toilet. A seating area and a bed area are not necessarily required. Only one of the two can be provided, or the compartment can be part of an open-plan area. It is also possible for the seating area to be part of a restaurant car.

[0257] 6, Example (Fig, 67-73)

[0258] Figures 67 to 73 show exemplary embodiments with a detailed representation of compartment doors 680, in particular for mini-compartments 601, 602, 603 in the "Stacked Herringbone Seating" concept, which was already explained in detail above with reference to the fourth exemplary embodiment. Figure 68 shows a mini-compartment 603 or a herringbone vehicle seat with a bed 630, with the focus being on the access structure. The access 660 can be closed with a door 680, which has two door wings 681, 682 in the form of sliding elements. The primary wing 681, 682 comprises circular segments of various concentric circles 671, 672. Figure 69a) shows the mini-compartment

[0259] 601 with the door open. The boundary of the access 660 is highlighted. The door 681 comprises a wing, which has elements that can be moved relative to one another. Fig. 69b) shows the arrangement

[0260] 602 with semi-closed access 660 and Fig.69c) shows the arrangement 603 with closed access.

[0261] Fig. 70a) shows an embodiment with a variation of the access 660 for a mini-compartment 601 in the open state. Here, too, the boundary of the access 660 is highlighted. The door comprises two wings 680 and 690. Fig. 70b) shows the access in a half-closed state, and Fig. 70c) shows it in a closed state.

[0262] The doors 680 and 690 of the embodiments according to Figures 69 and 70 are described in detail below:

[0263] Figure 67 shows that the clear space 615 of the central aisle 614 has a greater width in the middle and upper region of the aisle and a narrower section 614 in the lower region. This results in the entrances 660 to the upper mini-compartments 612 and lower mini-compartments 610 not being in the same plane along the aisle.

[0264] Figures 68 to 70 show the various variants of door constructions formed from circular segments with larger radii 681 and smaller radii 682. The corresponding virtual circles 671 and 672 are arranged around a common central axis 670. The compartments are shown with open doors 601, partially closed doors 602, and closed doors 603. In all compartments, a vehicle seat is arranged in the reclining position 630.

[0265] The door structures shown in Figures 68 and 70 have a primary leaf 680 and a secondary leaf 690. Both leaves 680 and 690 are designed as sliding doors. The primary leaf 680 comprises various circular segments. The connecting line 691 (Figure 70c) between the two door leaves is not straight, and the door leaves are cylindrical segments. The boundary of the access 660 is at least partially curved at the top and bottom and on both sides. In the lower area of ​​the access, there is a recess 661 for the feet and a recess 663 for a possible compartment located above.

[0266] Figures 69a-c) show a variation of the embodiment from Figure 70. The door has only one primary leaf, which comprises circular segments 681 and 682 with different radii on circular lines around a common central axis. The door leaf also has a movable, fixed part 683, which is completely connected to only one of the circular segments, whereby the connecting line 692 (Fig. 69b) between the circular segment and the movable part is straight. This means that the door leaf is completely connected to both parts, regardless of the relative angle of the connecting line. The boundary of the access 660 corresponds to the embodiment from Figure 70, but there is an additional bulge 662 in the upper area for the head.

[0267] Figures 71 to 73 show how the doors can be implemented in a row of stacked herringbone seats. Figure 71 shows several mini-compartments with herringbone seats in a double-decker arrangement around a central aisle 614 with the associated clear space 614. The vehicle outer wall 644 is not shown. Figures 71 to 73 show compartments 601 with open doors, compartments with partially closed doors 602 and compartments 603 with closed doors. Some compartments have vehicle seats in the day position 628, other vehicle seats in the night position 630. Between the compartments and the central aisle there are steps 624 and extra space 616 for climbing the steps. This ensures that the door frame 660 cannot lie completely against the central aisle and is at least partially curved when viewed from above. The doors consist of curved primary door leaves 680, some have secondary door leaves 690.The exemplary embodiments explained above serve to illustrate the invention claimed in the claims. Features which are disclosed together with other features can generally also be used alone or in combination with other features which are explicitly or implicitly disclosed in the text or in the drawings in the exemplary embodiments. Dimensions and sizes are given only as examples. Suitable ranges will become apparent to those skilled in the art from their specialist knowledge and therefore need not be explained in more detail here. The disclosure of a specific embodiment of a feature does not mean that the invention is to be limited to this specific embodiment. Rather, such a feature can be implemented by a multitude of other embodiments familiar to those skilled in the art.The invention can therefore be realized not only in the form of the embodiments explained, but by all embodiments covered by the scope of protection of the appended claims.

[0268] The terms "top," "bottom," "right," and "left" refer exclusively to the accompanying drawings. It is understood that claimed devices may also assume other orientations. The terms "containing" and "comprising" mean that additional, unmentioned components may be provided. The terms "essentially," "predominantly," and "predominantly" include all features that exhibit a property or content in the majority, i.e., more than all other mentioned components or properties of the feature.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Arrangement of vehicle seats (50, 52, 62, 68, 86, 204, 224, 226, 228, 286) in vehicles, comprising: (a) a plurality of compartments (22, 24, 122, 124, 222, 224) in which the vehicle seats (50, 52, 62, 68, 86, 204, 224, 226, 228, 286) are arranged; (b) at least one continuous aisle (14, 114, 214) extending in the direction of travel and connected to one or more vehicle entrances; and (c) at least one staircase (34, 36, 234) or ladder for reaching the compartments; characterized in that (d) the aisle (14, 114, 214) extends above sections (44, 272) of one or more compartments (22, 222, 224) and / or below sections (40) of other compartments (24); (e) the aisle (14, 114, 214) extends in the vehicle between sections of different compartments (22, 24, 222, 224) so ​​that the sections are arranged laterally of the aisle in the direction of travel; and (f) the floor of the aisle (14, 114, 214) is at a different level than the floor of the compartments and each of the compartments (22, 24, 222, 224) is connected to the aisle (14, 114, 214) by a staircase (34, 36, 234) or ladder.

2. Arrangement of vehicle spaces (50, 52, 62, 68, 86) according to claim 1, characterized in that (a) the vehicle spaces are distributed over at least two floors (26, 28), a lower floor (28) and an upper floor (26) each having a plurality of compartments (22, 24) being provided; (b) the corridor (14) extends above sections (44) of the compartments (22) on the lower floor (28) and / or below sections (40) of the compartments (24) on the upper floor (26); (c) the sections (38, 42) are arranged on both sides of the aisle (14) in the direction of travel; and (d) the floor (16) of the corridor (14) extends in a plane below the floor (32) of sections of the compartments (24) on the upper floor (26) and above the floor (30) of sections of the compartments (22) on the lower floor (28).

3. Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that compartments (22, 24) are arranged on both sides of the aisle (14) in an upper (26) and a lower floor (28).

4. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vehicle spaces comprise beds and / or loungers (52, 62, 68, 226, 228) which extend at least partially in the sections (40, 44, 272) above or below the aisle (14, 114, 214).

5. Arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that the foot area (72, 272) of the beds and / or loungers (52, 62, 68, 226, 228) is arranged below or above the aisle (14, 114, 214).

6. Arrangement according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the seating area for persons in the foot area (72, 272) has a smaller width than in the head and shoulder area (70).

7. Arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the lounge area is formed by a bed and / or a couch (52, 62, 68, 226, 228).

8. Arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the lounge area is provided in the corridor and at least one side wall of the corridor is provided with one or more bulges.

9. Arrangement according to claim 7, characterized in that (a) the lounge area comprises beds and / or loungers (52, 62, 68, 226, 228) in a common level above or below the aisle (14), (b) the foot area (70, 272) of the beds and / or couches in this level is arranged above or below the aisle (14, 114, 214); and (c) the foot area (70, 272) of a bed or berth (62, 68, 226, 228) in a compartment on one side of the aisle is arranged behind or in front of the foot area of ​​a bed or berth in a compartment on the other side of the aisle in the direction of travel.

10. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a luggage rack (48, 82, 84, 90, 282) is provided above or below one or more vehicle spaces (50, 52, 62, 68, 86, 226, 228, 286) or to the side thereof.

11. Arrangement according to claim 10, characterized in that the luggage rack is accessible from the compartment and / or the aisle.

12. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that seats (50) and / or reclining seats (62, 68) are provided in the sections (38, 42) to the side of the aisle (14).

13. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that compartments are provided with a wet cell (54).

14. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a common staircase (36) is provided for each two compartments (24).

15. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that walls (16, 98) with bulges (46, 100) are provided between the compartments (22) and / or between the compartments (22) and the aisle (14).

16. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vehicle spaces (50) are arranged obliquely.

17. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that vehicle spaces and / or luggage compartments are provided to the side of the aisle, which are accessible from the aisle.

18. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that seats are arranged in such a way that the area under the seat or under a table between the seats serves as a head area for persons in the compartment under the seat.

19. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one compartment (66, 222) is designed as a double or multiple bed compartment.

20. Arrangement according to claim 19, characterized in that one of the beds (286) in the multi-bed compartment (222) is arranged longitudinally and higher than the other beds.

21. Arrangement according to claim 1, 2, 3, 14, 19 or 20, characterized in that an auxiliary corridor (232) or staircase (36) is provided between two compartments, which extends from the corridor to a window and can be used as an emergency exit.

22. Arrangement of compartments in a vehicle which are separated from adjacent compartments and / or a corridor by walls, characterized in that the walls are provided with one or more bulges.

23. Arrangement according to claim 22, characterized in that the bulge extends over the entire width of a compartment.

24. Arrangement according to claim 23, characterized in that the bulge forms a receptacle for at least part of a bed or a couch with a sleeping area arranged above it.

25. Arrangement according to claim 24, characterized in that a backrest and / or armrests are arranged above the recess on the wall, which can be moved downwards or upwards, so that the bed or lounger can be converted into a seat.

26. Arrangement according to claim 25, characterized in that the bed or couch can be pivoted from a horizontal position.

27. Arrangement according to claim 26, characterized in that the bed or the couch is vertically movable and / or pivotable about a horizontal axis and can be locked in this position, so that an ergonomically advantageous sitting position is obtained.

28. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 22 to 27, characterized in that the bulge is spaced from the floor and a luggage or foot space is formed in an adjacent compartment below the bulge.

29. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 22 to 28, characterized in that the bulge in the adjacent compartment forms a projection with a horizontal surface.

30. Arrangement according to claim 29, characterized in that a plate is provided above the bulge, which plate can be moved into a horizontal position resting at least partially on the projection and can be locked in this position.

31. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 22 to 30, characterized in that oblique bulges (113) are provided.

32. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 22 to 31, characterized in that bulges are provided which adjoin the outer wall of the vehicle.

33. Arrangement according to claim 32, characterized in that windows are provided in the vehicle outer wall, which are arranged offset in the direction of travel relative to the compartment wall in the region of the bulge.

34. Arrangement according to one of claims 22 to 33, characterized in that the wall in the head region has an outward offset.

35. Arrangement of vehicle seats in vehicles in herringbone arrangement, comprising (a) at least one aisle in one level; (b) herringbone vehicle spaces accessible from the aisle; characterised in that (c) further vehicle spaces are arranged in at least one further level; and (d) stairs or ladders are provided in the aisle to access the other vehicle spaces.

36. Arrangement according to claim 35, characterized in that the vehicle spaces in the further level are accessible individually or in pairs via a separate staircase or ladder.

37. Arrangement according to claim 35, characterized in that a common staircase or ladder is provided for each two adjacent vehicle spaces in the further level.

38. Arrangement according to one of claims 35 to 37, characterized in that the vehicle spaces are formed by seats which can be converted into lying places.

39. Arrangement according to one of claims 35 to 38, characterized in that the vehicle spaces are separated from one another by walls.

40. Arrangement according to one of claims 35 to 39, characterized in that the vehicle spaces are arranged one above the other with an offset in a direction parallel to the aisle.

41. Arrangement according to claim 40, characterized in that the pitch between the vehicle spaces is less than 120 cm, preferably in the range between 100-110 cm, and the offset is less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm and most preferably less than 11 cm.

42. Arrangement according to claim 41, characterized in that the area of ​​a vehicle seat provided for the head in the sitting position is provided in the lower level below the seat surface of the vehicle seat above.

43. Arrangement according to one of claims 35 to 42, characterized in that the footwell provided in the sitting position of a vehicle seat in the lower level is arranged at least partially below a staircase or ladder for a vehicle seat in an upper level or a footwell is provided which allows the feet to be transferred from the aisle to the sitting position.

44. Arrangement according to one of claims 35 to 43, characterized in that the stairs or ladder has a slope in which the stairs or ladder protrudes into the corridor in the lower region and / or is inclined in the direction of the vehicle space in the upper region.

45. Arrangement according to one of claims 35 to 44, characterized in that a luggage rack accessible from the aisle, vehicle seat or adjacent vehicle seat is provided under the lower vehicle seats.

46. ​​A rail vehicle having a plurality of vehicle spaces arranged in an arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims.

47. Rail vehicle according to claim 46, characterized in that at least one carriage is comprised with a first section having an arrangement of vehicle spaces in a herringbone arrangement and with a second section having an arrangement of vehicle spaces with at least two floors.

48. Rail vehicle according to claim 47, characterized in that the section with the arrangement of vehicle spaces in a herringbone arrangement is arranged at least partially above the bogies.

49. Rail vehicle according to claim 47 or 48, characterized in that the section with the arrangement of vehicle spaces with at least two floors is arranged outside the area of ​​the bogies.

50. Rail vehicle with bogies, consisting of several connected wagons, characterized in that (a) the number of bogies is greater than the number of car bodies and less than twice the number of car bodies, (b) inter-vehicle gangways between adjacent car bodies are located outside the spaces above the spaces between the axles of each bogie; and (c) double-decker areas are provided in at least one section.

51. Rail vehicle according to claim 50, characterized in that a car body is suspended on at least one side from an adjacent car body without its own bogie.

52. Rail vehicle according to claim 51, characterized in that a first and a second section are arranged in a car body which is suspended on at least one side from an adjacent car body without its own bogie.

53. Rail vehicle according to one of claims 50 to 52, characterized in that the car body with the first and second sections has at least one vehicle entrance in the form of an external door and at least one of the adjacent car bodies has no external doors.

54. Rail vehicle according to one of claims 50 to 53, characterized in that a wheelchair-accessible area with a wheelchair-accessible toilet and wheelchair-accessible vehicle spaces is provided in the car body with the first and second sections.

55. Rail vehicle according to one of claims 50 to 54, characterized in that two identical end cars, each with two bogies, and a car suspended in the middle without bogies are provided.

56. Rail vehicle according to one of claims 50 to 54, characterized in that an intermediate car with two bogies is provided, on each of whose two sides an identical end car with only one bogie is suspended.

57. Rail vehicle according to one of claims 50 to 56, characterized in that raised seating areas and / or beds are provided in the area above the vehicle doors, which is not sufficient for an upper floor for standing in the case of limited clearance profiles and ground-level entrances.

58. Compartment in a vehicle with at least one vehicle seat, containing (a) one or more side walls; and (b) an access which can be closed by a door; characterised in that (c) the side wall is part of a rotationally symmetrical shape; and (d) the door has at least one door leaf which is also part of a rotationally symmetrical shape.

59. Compartment according to claim 58, characterized in that two vehicle spaces in the compartment are provided, which are arranged one above the other.

60. Compartment according to one of claims 58 or 59, characterized in that the side wall has at least one section, the radius of which differs from the radius of the remaining area of ​​the side wall and which connects at least one door leaf to the Radii of the side wall sections are adjusted.

61. Compartment according to one of claims 58 to 60, characterized in that two door leaves are provided.

62. Compartment according to one of claims 58 to 61, characterized in that a separate slat is provided on the door leaf.

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