Ramp device, in particular as a dog entry aid for a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a ramp device (1), in particular as a dog entry aid, for a vehicle (4), the ramp device (1) having a ramp (2). In order to achieve a high degree of practicality, the ramp (2), in particular with a drive, can be extended from a stowed position, in which the ramp (2) is at least partially rolled up, by at least partial unrolling of the ramp (2) into a use position, the ramp device (1) having a movable, in particular extendable, support element (5), preferably in the form of a support arm, in order to carry, preferably support, a segment (6) of the ramp (2) with the support element (5) along an extension path while the carrying element (5) is moved during the extension of the ramp (2) into the use position. The invention also relates to a method for operating the ramp device (1) and to a use of the ramp device (1).

Description

[0001] Ramp device, especially as a dog entry aid for a vehicle

[0002] The invention relates to a ramp device, in particular as a dog entry aid for a vehicle, wherein the ramp device comprises a ramp.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating a ramp device.

[0004] Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of a ramp device.

[0005] Dog ramps are commonly used to make it easier for a dog to get into the trunk of a vehicle. These ramps typically form a sloping platform from the trunk opening to the floor, allowing the dog to easily enter the trunk. Dog ramps are generally designed to support dogs weighing more than 20 kg. However, the focus on robustness often results in a bulky design, making the ramp difficult to handle and transport.

[0006] This is where the invention comes in. The object of the invention is to provide a ramp device of the type mentioned above, which exhibits a high degree of practicality in use.

[0007] Furthermore, an objective of the invention is to provide a method for operating a ramp device of the type mentioned above, which has a high degree of practicality in use.

[0008] Furthermore, it is another object of the invention to specify a use of a ramp device of the type mentioned above, which has a high degree of practicality in use.

[0009] The object of the invention is achieved in that the ramp, in particular with a drive, can be extended from a stowed position, in which the ramp is at least partially rolled up, into a usable position by at least partially unrolling the ramp, wherein the ramp device has a movable, in particular extendable, support element, preferably in the form of a support arm, in order to carry, preferably support, a segment of the ramp along an extension path during the extension of the ramp into the usable position.

[0010] By having the ramp at least partially rolled up in its stowed position and being extendable into its operating position by at least partially unrolling it, a compact stowed size and high practicality during transition to the operating position can be achieved. Supporting the ramp segment along its extension path with a movable, particularly extendable, support element allows for simple and practical alignment of the ramp in its operating position and ensures high robustness. The support element is typically a support arm, preferably a support arm. Supporting the segment can be achieved by bracing it, particularly from below. The movement of the support element typically corresponds to the extension of the ramp segment, allowing the support arm to guide the segment along its extension path.The extension path is typically the path the segment travels in a rolled-out, particularly extended, state to assume its operating position. The extension path may be predetermined by the support element. The segment may be guided along the extension path by the support element.

[0011] It has proven effective if the exit route is essentially straight.

[0012] Typically, in its operational position, an extended section of the ramp forms a walkway, particularly a flat one. This walkway usually spans between two levels. The extended ramp section, especially the walkway, can run along an imaginary plane. The ramp is usually extended in a downward-sloping direction. The ramp segment is typically part of the extended ramp section in its operational position. The extended ramp section, especially the walkway, can have a flat, and in particular, essentially level, extent. The walkway makes it practical to load a vehicle, especially when a dog is getting into the vehicle. In its stowed position, the ramp is usually at least partially rolled up along a specific direction.The ramp system can include a drive, in particular a motor, with which the ramp can be extended. The extension of the ramp can be controllable, particularly with user interaction. Typically, the drive is controlled, particularly with user interaction.

[0013] The ramp's extension in the direction of roll-up can be referred to as its longitudinal extension or length. The ramp's width is usually perpendicular to its roll-up direction. The ramp's height is usually perpendicular to both its width and its roll-up direction. The average height of the ramp is typically less than its average width and less than its average length. The ramp is usually designed as a panel or mat, in particular so that it can be at least partially rolled up when stowed. The ramp, especially the walkway, can be made predominantly, or even primarily, of metal or plastic. The ramp typically has a main surface. The walkway is usually formed by the main surface. The main surface is typically defined by the ramp's length and width.The main surface, when in use and / or in the operating position, typically forms the top of an extended section of the ramp. In the direction of winding, the ramp can be formed by several ramp sections arranged side by side, with the ramp sections connected in a way that allows them to tilt relative to one another. This means that the ramp can be at least partially wound up by tilting the ramp sections relative to each other, particularly to achieve the stowed position. Alternatively or additionally, the ramp can be elastically flexible, allowing it to be at least partially wound up, particularly to achieve the stowed position.

[0014] In its stowed position, the ramp is typically rolled up along a predominant portion of its length in the direction of travel. In this position, the ramp is usually rolled up at least partially, and preferably predominantly, more than 75%, and more preferably more than 90%, of its length in the direction of travel. In its operational position, the ramp may be unrolled along a predominant portion of its length in the direction of travel. To assume the operational position, the ramp is typically unrollable and / or extendable at least partially, and preferably predominantly, more preferably more than 75%, and more preferably more than 90%, of its length in the direction of travel. This design ensures a high degree of practicality.

[0015] The ramp system typically includes a housing. In the stowed position, the ramp is usually at least partially coiled within the housing, particularly in the manner described in this document. To assume the operating position, the ramp is usually at least partially extendable from the housing. Specifically, to assume the operating position, a portion of the ramp can be extended from the housing by at least partially uncoiling it. The housing may have an opening through which the ramp can be partially moved for extension. The extension path is usually located outside the housing. The extension path is typically the distance the segment travels outside the housing to assume its position in the operating position. The segment may be formed with a front end section of the ramp, often also referred to as the front section of the ramp, which is positioned opposite to the direction of extension.The ramp is typically extendable, particularly into its operating position, such that a ramp segment is pushed or extended out of the housing, specifically in the operating position, to form the walkway. This segment is usually supported outside the housing along the extension path by the support element. The walkway typically allows for loading a cargo space, particularly of the vehicle, and / or for the dog to enter the cargo space, particularly the trunk.

[0016] The ramp is typically wound up and / or unwound around a winding axis. In the stowed position, the ramp may be at least partially wound up around this axis. The ramp mechanism may include a rotatable winding shaft around which the ramp is at least partially wound in the stowed position. The winding shaft may define the winding axis. The winding shaft may be coupled to the drive of the ramp mechanism for rotation. The winding shaft may be rod-shaped or tubular. A longitudinal direction of the winding shaft is typically oriented essentially parallel to a lateral direction of the ramp. The winding shaft may be rotatable, particularly relative to the housing, to wind the ramp onto the winding shaft as the shaft rotates, especially to achieve the stowed position, and / or to unwind the ramp as the shaft rotates, especially to achieve the operating position.The winding and unwinding process is typically achieved by rotating the winding shaft in opposite directions. The winding shaft can be coupled to the drive of the ramp mechanism to power its rotation. The drive is usually a motor. The winding shaft can have a cavity into which the drive, particularly the motor, is at least partially, and preferably predominantly, inserted. This allows for a compact design. The winding shaft can be located essentially within the housing.

[0017] It is advantageous if a mounting area of ​​the ramp is connected to the winding shaft so that the mounting area moves with the winding shaft when the shaft rotates. This allows for robust winding and / or unwinding. The mounting area can be formed by, in particular, an end section of the ramp facing the winding shaft, especially along a portion of the ramp extending in the winding direction. For high robustness, it has proven effective if the winding shaft has a mounting recess into which the mounting area is at least partially, and in particular positively, inserted to connect the mounting area, especially within the mounting recess, to the winding shaft. The mounting recess can be a depression, in particular a through-hole, in the winding shaft. The mounting recess can

[0018] The mounting area must be formed in a shape corresponding to the mounting area, particularly in a cross-sectional shape of the mounting area, so that the mounting area is positively engaged in the mounting receptacle. The mounting receptacle can have a longitudinal extension oriented in a longitudinal direction of the winding shaft. The winding shaft can have several such mounting areas and / or several such mounting receptacles. Preferably, each mounting area is assigned one of the mounting receptacles in order to connect the respective mounting area to the winding shaft by insertion into the respective mounting receptacle. A longitudinal extension of the winding shaft is typically at least equal to half the average width, and in particular at least equal to the average width, of the ramp, specifically of a portion of the ramp that can be wound onto the winding shaft during use.The ramp assembly may have a base. In the stowed position, the ramp may be at least partially rolled up with the base. Extending, and in particular moving, the ramp from the stowed position to the operating position may occur relative to the base. The support element may be connected to the base. The support element, in particular the coupling section described in this document, may be movable, and in particular extendable, relative to the base in order to support the ramp segment, especially along the extension path. The support element may be coupled to the segment to support the segment. The ramp, and in particular the ramp segment, may be extendable relative to the base. The base may define an area of ​​the ramp assembly in which the ramp, in the stowed position, is at least partially rollable, particularly for assuming the stowed position.The base can be designed for at least partial winding of the ramp. The base can include the housing, in particular the housing. The winding shaft is usually rotatable relative to the base. The winding shaft can be rotatably mounted on the base.

[0019] The support element, in particular a connecting section of the support element, is usually connected to the base, especially at a connection point. This allows the segment with the support element to be carried, in particular supported, or braced against the base. The support element, in particular the connecting section, can be hinged to the base, especially at the connection point. The support element, in particular a coupling section of the support element (preferably at the end), and the ramp segment are usually coupled together. Specifically, the coupling section moves in accordance with the segment during the ramp's extension, in particular moving with the segment, to support the segment with the support element via the coupling section. The coupling is usually a hinged connection.The movement of the support element is typically a movement of the support element, in particular the coupling section, relative to the base. The movement of the support element is typically carried out to adapt the extension of the support element and / or the coupling section of the support element to a movement, in particular an extension movement and / or retraction movement, of the segment, in order to support, in particular to support, the segment. The connecting section is typically formed with a first end of the support element. The coupling section is typically formed with a second end of the support element. The first end and the second end of the support element are typically connected to each other on the support element, in particular along a longitudinal extension of the support element.

[0020] Carrier element, opposite.

[0021] It has proven effective when the movement of the support element, particularly the coupling section, for supporting the segment is effected by the movement, particularly the extension, of the ramp, particularly the segment. Typically, the coupling of the coupling section to the segment exerts a tensile or compressive force on the coupling section, caused by the extension movement of the ramp, in order to move the coupling section, particularly to move it along with the segment. The support element can be designed accordingly and coupled to the ramp, particularly the segment, and particularly to the base. The movement of the support element is generally implemented by a movement, particularly a retraction and / or extension movement, of the coupling section relative to the connecting section of the support element. The ramp segment can be a front segment of the ramp, typically formed by the front area of ​​the ramp.The ramp, especially the segment of the ramp, is usually extendable relative to the base of the ramp system.

[0022] It is advantageous if the support element, particularly along its longitudinal extent, comprises several support element parts, wherein adjacent support element parts are articulated together and / or adjacent support element parts are longitudinally displaceable relative to each other, particularly telescopically, in order to move the support element, particularly the coupling section, to support, and especially to extend, the segment. This allows the support element, particularly the coupling section, to be moved with high robustness in relation to the segment and / or the coupling section to be moved relative to the connecting section. The support element parts are typically arranged side by side along the longitudinal extent of the support element. If the support element is a support arm, the support element parts are typically support arm parts.The support element components can be rod-like, particularly tube-like. It has proven advantageous if at least two adjacent first support element components are articulated together, such that when the ramp is extended, the angle formed by the angular position of the first support element components increases. An increase in the angle typically corresponds to an extension movement of the support element. The first support element components can thus form an articulated arm component. The first support elements can therefore be foldable for retracting the support element and / or unfoldable for extending the support element. Alternatively, or preferably cumulatively, at least two adjacent second support element components can be slidably connected to each other in the longitudinal direction of one of the support element components, particularly telescopically, so that the overall length of the two support element components can be changed by the relative displacement.In particular, when the ramp is extended, the second support element sections can be displaced relative to each other in the longitudinal direction, especially by extending a length formed by the second support element sections. The second support element sections can have essentially parallel longitudinal directions. The second support element sections can be connected to each other, at least partially, by being inserted into one another and thus displaceable relative to each other. It is advantageous if one of the second support element sections has a guide and the other has a guide pin, the guide pin being inserted into the guide in a form-fitting manner to displace the second support element sections relative to each other. A practical design can be achieved if at least one of the support element sections functions as both the first and second support element sections.It is advantageous if the articulated connection between the adjacent support element parts, particularly between the first support element parts, has an axis of rotation about which the support element parts can rotate relative to each other, wherein the axis of rotation is preferably transverse, and ideally substantially orthogonal, to the planar extent of an extended part of the ramp. The support element, and in particular the support element parts, are usually movable within an imaginary plane of movement. It is advantageous if the support element parts are designed such that, when the support element is extended, a displacement of the second support element parts relative to each other only occurs once the first support element parts have reached a predetermined angular position or are essentially straight.The support element can have three adjacent support element parts, wherein the middle support element is pivotally connected to one of the other support element parts, particularly as described, and is displaceable relative to the other support element parts in a longitudinal direction relative to one of the two support elements, particularly as described. It is advantageous if the support element, and in particular the support element parts, are arranged such that they can be extended below an extending part of the ramp, particularly below the segment. The support element is usually arranged such that, in its operating position, it runs below the extended part of the ramp and typically supports the segment. This allows the segment to be practically supported by the support element during the extension of the ramp, and in particular the segment.

[0023] It is advantageous if the ramp system has two support elements, in particular two support arms, which support the segment at different halves of the ramp with respect to a center line of the ramp. The center line usually runs along an extension of the ramp in the direction of travel or along the longitudinal extension of the ramp. The support elements can each be designed as described in this document, in particular above, and integrated into the ramp system. This allows for particularly robust support of the segment. The coupling sections of the support elements can be connected to the segment at different halves of the ramp with respect to the center line of the ramp. This can also apply analogously if the coupling sections are connected to the segment via a ramp coupling element described in this document.The ramp segment typically extends across the entire width of the ramp. For example, the coupling sections can each be connected to the segment on a different lateral side of the ramp. The lateral side usually runs in the direction of the ramp's roll-up along its length. It is advantageous if both support elements, as described above, are formed with two first support element parts and preferably with two second support element parts. It is practical if the first support element parts of each support element form an angled apex oriented towards the ramp's centerline.

[0024] It is advantageous if the support element, in particular the coupling section of the support element, is connected to the segment, especially by a hinged connection, via a ramp coupling element of the ramp assembly. The ramp coupling element can be connected to the segment, particularly along at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and most preferably at least 90% of the ramp's width. It has proven particularly effective if the ramp coupling element is connected to the segment, especially along the segment, along a predominant, and in particular the entire, width of the ramp. This allows the segment to be robustly supported, and in particular, the segment can be robustly supported, via the ramp coupling element. The ramp coupling element can be rod-shaped, and in particular tubular.The ramp coupling element can be positively locked, force-locked, or materially locked to the segment, particularly at the segment itself. The ramp coupling element can have a connection receptacle, wherein the segment is inserted into the connection receptacle at least partially, and in particular passed through it, to connect the ramp coupling element to the segment. The connection receptacle can be formed by, and in particular by, a recess in or a passage through the ramp coupling element. If the segment is formed by, and in particular by, a front area of ​​the ramp, it has proven advantageous for the front area to be connected to the ramp coupling element at least partially by, and in particular by, positive locking, insertion into the connection receptacle. The connection receptacle is then typically a recess in the ramp coupling element.The coupling section of the support element can be connected to the ramp coupling element, particularly by a hinge. If the ramp assembly has several support elements, the coupling section of each support element can be connected to the segment via its own ramp coupling element. However, it is preferred that the coupling sections of the support elements are spaced apart and connected to the ramp coupling element, preferably by hinges. The ramp coupling element is then typically a common ramp coupling element to which the coupling sections are connected. The coupling sections of the support elements can be located in different halves of the ramp, relative to the ramp's centerline, when viewed from above.For example, in a top view of the segment, the coupling sections can each be connected to the ramp coupling element at an edge region on a different longitudinal side of the ramp. The top view is usually a view in the vertical direction of the ramp, or a view orthogonal to the planar extent of an extended part of the ramp. The vertical direction of the ramp is usually orthogonal to the width direction and orthogonal to the rolling direction or length direction of the ramp.

[0025] It is practical for the ramp to have a variable, and preferably increase, average width, particularly if this width is controllable. It is advantageous if the average width of the ramp can be varied during extension and / or after the ramp has entered its operating position. This variation in width can be controllable, particularly through user interaction. Specifically, the average width of the ramp can be the average width of the extended portion of the ramp, especially the walking surface, which is varied. The ramp can be formed in its width direction with several, particularly overlapping, ramp sections that can be moved relative to each other, in order to vary the average width of the ramp by moving these sections relative to one another.It is advantageous if each ramp section extends along a predominant, and especially the entire, length of the ramp in the direction of travel. It is practical if the segment comprises several segment sections, with different segment sections being formed by different ramp sections, and several of the supporting elements being coupled to different segment sections to support the segment sections. The ramp sections are usually arranged side by side in the width direction of the ramp. The ramp sections can overlap and be displaceable relative to each other in the width direction, in order to vary the average width of the ramp by shifting the ramp sections relative to each other. The ramp sections usually overlap each other in the height direction of the ramp, especially the ramp sections themselves.

[0026] The ramp system can include a width adjustment device designed to move the ramp sections relative to each other in the width direction of the ramp, particularly in a controllable manner. The width adjustment device can have several coupling components, which are movable relative to each other, particularly along a displacement axis, and in particular in a controllable manner. Different coupling components are connected to different ramp sections so that moving the coupling components relative to each other allows the ramp sections to be moved relative to each other, thus varying the width of the ramp. Typically, moving the coupling components allows the distance between them to be varied.The coupling components can be connected to each other via a connecting element, particularly a rod-shaped one, of the width adjustment device. The length of a section of the connecting element located between each pair of coupling components can be varied to change the distance between the coupling components and thus allow them to be moved relative to each other. It is practical if two coupling components are partially inserted into each other, with the insertion depth of the coupling components being variable, particularly controllable, to move them relative to each other. For this purpose, one coupling component can have a pin receptacle and the other coupling component can have a pin at least partially inserted into the pin receptacle. By varying the insertion depth of the pin into the pin receptacle, particularly in a controlled manner, the coupling components can be moved relative to each other.The pin receptacle is typically shaped to correspond to the pin, allowing the pin to be guided through the receptacle in the depth direction of the recess. The pin receptacle can be a recess or a through-hole. The width adjustment device can be coupled to a drive unit, in particular a motor unit, for driving the width adjustment device. The drive unit can be the drive itself, in particular the motor. The displacement of the coupling components relative to each other can be driven by the drive unit.

[0027] The winding shaft can have several winding shaft sections that are displaceable relative to each other, particularly in a controllable manner, along a longitudinal axis of the winding shaft, with different winding shaft sections being connected to different ramp sections. Displacing the ramp sections relative to each other to vary the average width of the ramp can correspond to displacing the winding shaft sections relative to each other. It is advantageous if the winding shaft includes the width adjustment device. It is beneficial if the ramp sections are displaceable relative to each other when displacing the winding shaft sections relative to each other to vary the average width of the ramp. The winding shaft sections can be the coupling components of the width adjustment device and can be implemented and / or coupled to each other accordingly, in particular as described for the coupling components.In particular, two of the winding shaft sections can be partially inserted into one another, with the insertion depth of the winding shaft sections being variable, especially controllable, to displace the winding shaft sections relative to each other. For this purpose, one of the winding shaft sections can have a pin receptacle and the other winding shaft section can have a pin at least partially inserted into the pin receptacle, in order to displace the winding shaft sections relative to each other by varying, especially controllably, the insertion depth of the pin into the pin receptacle. The pin is usually oriented in the longitudinal direction of the winding shaft. The pin receptacle is usually shaped to correspond to the pin, so that the pin can be guided through the pin receptacle in the depth direction of the recess. The pin receptacle can be a recess or through-hole oriented in the longitudinal direction of the winding shaft.It is practical if the winding shaft sections are displaceable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the winding shaft in such a way that the longitudinal extent of the winding shaft is varied by the displacement. The winding shaft sections can be controllable and / or motor-driven, in particular by a motor of the ramp mechanism, allowing them to be displaced relative to each other.

[0028] The housing can comprise several housing parts that are displaceable relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the winding shaft, wherein the housing parts are coupled to the winding shaft in such a way that a variation in the longitudinal extent of the winding shaft corresponds to a variation in the extent of the housing in the longitudinal direction of the winding shaft. The housing parts are usually arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the winding shaft. The housing parts, in particular any two adjacent housing parts, can be partially inserted into one another in the longitudinal direction of the winding shaft, in particular such that the housing parts overlap in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The housing parts, in particular any two adjacent housing parts, can be guided and displaceable relative to each other.It is advantageous if, of any two adjacent housing parts, one of the housing parts has a guide, in particular a groove, and the other of the housing parts has a guide pin inserted into the guide, wherein the guide pin is movable through the guide in order to move the housing parts relative to each other.

[0029] It is advantageous if the ramp coupling element, particularly along one width direction of the ramp, is formed with several ramp coupling element parts that are displaceable relative to each other in the width direction of the ramp, with different ramp coupling element parts being connected to different ramp sections. The ramp coupling element parts can be displaceable relative to each other corresponding to changes in the width of the ramp, the length of the winding shaft, or the length of the housing. It is advantageous if the ramp coupling element has a width adjustment device as described in this document. It can be useful if, by displacing the ramp coupling element parts relative to each other to vary the average width of the ramp, the ramp sections are also displaceable relative to each other.The ramp coupling element components can be the coupling components of the width adjustment device and can be implemented and / or coupled to each other accordingly, in particular as described for the coupling components. Alternatively, it can be practical if, when the length of the housing or the winding shaft changes via the support elements, and especially when the distance between the coupling sections changes, a displacement force is exerted on the ramp coupling element to move the ramp coupling element components relative to each other. The support elements can be coupled to the housing or the winding shaft in such a way that the distance between the coupling sections of the support elements changes in a width direction of the ramp corresponding to a change in the length of the housing or the winding shaft.This can be achieved by connecting the connecting sections to the housing, particularly at the connection points, in such a way that when the length of the housing changes, the distance between the connecting sections in the width direction of the ramp changes correspondingly to the change in the length of the housing. The coupling sections of the support elements are usually connected to the ramp coupling element at different ramp coupling element parts, in particular by hinges. This allows for a low failure potential and high structural strength, especially when the width of the ramp is varied. In particular, two of the ramp coupling element parts can be partially inserted into each other, whereby the insertion depth of the ramp coupling element parts into each other can be varied, in particular controllably, in order to shift the ramp coupling element parts relative to each other.For this purpose, one of the ramp coupling element parts can have a pin receptacle, and the other ramp coupling element part can have a pin at least partially inserted into the pin receptacle. This allows the ramp coupling element parts to be moved relative to each other by varying, in particular controlled, the insertion depth of the pin into the pin receptacle. The pin is usually oriented longitudinally along the ramp coupling element and / or laterally along the ramp. The pin receptacle can be a recess or through-hole oriented longitudinally along the ramp coupling element. It is practical if the ramp coupling element parts can be moved relative to each other along the longitudinal direction of the ramp coupling element in such a way that the longitudinal extent of the ramp coupling element is varied by moving them. The ramp coupling element parts can be moved relative to each other in a controllable and / or motor-driven manner, in particular by a motor of the ramp assembly.

[0030] The ramp device may include a fastening device for attaching the ramp device, in particular its base, to an external object, especially a vehicle. The ramp device is typically attached in such a way that the ramp can be extended into the usable position, so that the extended part of the ramp bridges a difference in height, particularly for loading the external object.It is practical if the ramp device has one or more curved mounting arms to attach the ramp device, in particular the base, specifically the housing, to an external object with one end of the respective mounting arm so that it can pivot about a pivot axis. This allows the ramp device, in its stowed position, to be moved from a storage position behind an edge, particularly a cargo area edge, of the external object to an operating position in front of the edge by pivoting the ramp device about the pivot axis, with the respective mounting arm extending over the edge. The external object can be a vehicle. The edge can be a cargo area edge, particularly a trunk edge, of the vehicle. In this way, it is possible to arrange the ramp device, in its stowed position, behind the cargo area edge in the storage position located in the cargo area for transport purposes.For use of the ramp system, the ramp system can be pivoted from its storage position, extending over the edge of the cargo area via the mounting arms, to its operating position located in front of the cargo area edge. In this operating position, the ramp can then be extended to allow loading of the cargo area, particularly for a dog, via the extended ramp. The above can be applied analogously, in particular to pivoting the base, specifically the housing, from its storage position behind the edge to its operating position in front of the edge. The mounting arms can be pivotally connected to the base, particularly the housing. The mounting arms can be part of the mounting device, and in particular, can form part of it.The respective end of the fastening arms can be connected to the cargo space, in particular to a cargo space wall or cargo space floor of the cargo space, and in particular attached to it, usually in a pivotable manner.

[0031] It is advantageous if a vehicle, especially a car, is equipped with a ramp system described in this document. The vehicle can be loaded via the ramp in its extended position. The ramp can be extended into its extended position so that the vehicle can be loaded via the ramp, specifically an extended section of the ramp. The ramp system can be arranged accordingly on the vehicle. The extended section of the ramp typically forms the walkway. Loading can involve an animal, especially a dog, entering the vehicle via the ramp, specifically the walkway. The walkway is typically designed to allow the animal, especially a dog, to traverse the difference in elevation spanned by the walkway. The walkway can thus serve as an entry point for the animal, especially the dog.The ramp system can be arranged, and in particular attached, in an area of ​​the vehicle's cargo space, specifically at the edge of the cargo space, to facilitate loading the cargo space using the ramp, especially the walkway. The cargo space can be a trunk. The ramp system can be attached to the vehicle, particularly in an area of ​​the cargo space, usually within the vehicle's cargo area, by means of one or more mounting arms, in particular as described in this document.

[0032] The ramp system, in particular the ramp itself, is typically designed to support an object or an animal, especially a dog, weighing between 10 kg and 100 kg, or more specifically between 20 kg and 100 kg, and in particular between 30 kg and 60 kg, in its extended position, particularly to allow the animal to use the ramp. The ramp system is typically motor-driven, especially electrically, and controllable. This applies in particular to the operation, especially extending and / or retracting, of the ramp and / or changing its width. The ramp system can be controlled by a remote control, especially a mobile one. For this purpose, the ramp system can have a control device designed to receive control signals transmitted by the remote control and to control the ramp system based on these signals.The drive and / or drive unit, which are typically equipped with one or more motors, can be controlled by the control device. The drive and drive unit can be implemented with different motors or, preferably, with the same motor. The respective motor is typically an electric motor. The ramp unit can include an energy source, particularly a rechargeable one, especially a battery, to supply the drive and drive unit with energy. For this purpose, the energy source is typically coupled to the drive and drive unit for energy transmission, particularly electrically. It is advantageous if a set comprising the ramp unit and the remote control is provided to control the ramp unit remotely.

[0033] The ramp is typically movable between the stowed position and the operating position, in particular extendable from the stowed position to the operating position and retractable from the operating position to the stowed position. Extending the ramp is typically accomplished by at least partially unrolling it, especially from the winding shaft, usually while the winding shaft rotates. Retracting the ramp is typically accomplished by at least partially rolling it onto the winding shaft, usually while the winding shaft rotates.

[0034] The objective is achieved according to the invention by a method of the type mentioned at the outset for operating a ramp device, if the ramp device is designed as described in this document, wherein the ramp is extended from the stowed position into the operating position by at least partially unrolling the ramp, wherein during the extension of the ramp into the operating position, the segment of the ramp, usually in an unrolled state, is carried, and in particular supported, by the support element along the extension path by movement, in particular extension. The movement, in particular extension, of the support element can be a pivoting and / or a change in length of the support element, in particular relative to the base of the ramp device. The method for operating the ramp device can be designed according to the features and effects described in this document in connection with the ramp device.This applies analogously to the ramp setup with regard to the procedure.

[0035] Moving the support element typically involves extending it, particularly in conjunction with extending the ramp. The support element is usually extended into its operating position during the ramp's extension, in order to support the ramp segment along its extension path. Along this path, the segment is typically in an unrolled state, specifically one that has emerged from the housing. The extension path is usually the extension path of the segment. Extending the ramp, particularly a portion of it, typically refers to the movement of an unrolled portion, especially in a state outside the housing. The length of the segment's extension path is typically at least 50% of the total extension path of an extending end of the ramp to assume its operating position.The extension path is typically located outside the housing and is generally oriented in a largely straight line. Moving the support element can involve pivoting it, usually relative to the base, and / or changing its length, typically along its longitudinal axis.

[0036] It is practical to vary, preferably increase, the average width of the ramp, particularly of an extended portion of the ramp and / or the walking surface, during extension and / or after it has been extended into the operating position, especially by means of a motor. This typically allows for a compact packing size of the ramp device in the stowed position and / or enables the ramp to be adjusted, particularly increased, to a practical width only during use. The further objective is achieved according to the invention by using a ramp device described in this document as a dog entry aid for a vehicle, in particular to form a walkway for a dog into the vehicle, especially into a cargo area, with the ramp in its operating position. The ramp device can be implemented and / or arranged, in particular attached, to a vehicle as described in this document.The dog typically weighs more than 20 kg, in particular more than 30 kg, preferably more than 50 kg. The dog can typically weigh up to 100 kg. The ramp device can be designed to support such a dog in its operating position, particularly for the purpose of allowing the dog to enter the vehicle via the ramp. Its use can be configured according to the features and effects described in this document regarding the ramp device and / or the method. This applies analogously to the ramp device and / or the method with regard to its use.

[0037] Further features, advantages, and effects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of an exemplary embodiment. The drawings referred to therein show:

[0038] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a ramp device arranged on the trunk of a vehicle, in particular as a dog entry aid, in a usable position of a ramp of the ramp device;

[0039] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the ramp device in a usable position of the ramp from a diagonally above view of the ramp;

[0040] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of the ramp device in the ramp's operating position, viewed from an oblique angle below the ramp;

[0041] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the ramp mechanism in a stowed position of the ramp;

[0042] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of the ramp device in the stowed position of the ramp without lateral cover of a housing of the ramp device with ramp not shown;

[0043] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of housing parts of the housing of the

[0044] Ramp device; Fig. 7 a schematic representation of winding shaft parts of a winding shaft of the ramp device;

[0045] Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of ramp coupling element parts of a ramp coupling element of the ramp device;

[0046] Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of support element parts of a support element of the ramp device;

[0047] Fig. 10 is a schematic representation of a section of the ramp device attached to the trunk of the vehicle from a slanted top view.

[0048] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a ramp device 1. The ramp device 1 can be arranged on the trunk 19 of a vehicle 4 to serve as a loading aid or dog entry aid. The ramp device 1 has a retractable ramp 2, which can be extended by a drive from a stowed position, in which the ramp 2 is at least partially rolled up in a housing 3, to a usable position by at least partially unrolling the ramp 2 from the housing 3. The ramp 2 is extendable such that a ramp section is pushed out of the housing 3 to form a walkway. The walkway typically allows loading of the trunk 19 of the vehicle 4 and / or entry of the dog into the trunk 19. The housing 3 has an opening 12 through which the ramp 2 can be extended.The ramp device 1 has two movable support elements 5, designed as support arms, which are in particular at least partially pivotable and / or length-adjustable, to support a segment 6 of the ramp 2 during its extension into the operating position. The support elements 5 move along an extension path outside the housing 3. The support elements 5 preferably extend below the extended portion of the ramp 2 to support the segment 6. The segment 6 of the ramp 2 is formed by, in particular through, a front section of the ramp 2. Figure 1 shows the ramp 2 in its operating position. Figure 4 shows the ramp 2 in its stowed position.The ramp device 1 can preferably function as a dog entry aid to facilitate a dog's entry into the trunk 19 via the ramp 2 in its operating position, where the dog typically weighs more than 20 kg. Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the ramp device 1 in the operating position of the ramp 2 from a top-down view. Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of the ramp device 1 in the operating position of the ramp 2 from a bottom-down view. A connecting section 7 of the respective support element 5, formed with a first end of the respective support element 5, is pivotally connected to the housing 3 at a respective connection point, in particular such that the respective connecting section 7 is pivotable about an axis of rotation oriented transversely to a planar extent of the extended part of the ramp 2.The ramp assembly 1 has a ramp coupling element 9 connected to the segment 6, wherein a coupling section 8 of the respective support element 5, formed with a second end of the respective support element 5, is connected to the segment 6, in particular by a hinge, via the ramp coupling element 9. The first and second ends of the respective support element 5 are opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal extent of the support element 5 on the support element 5. Preferably, the coupling elements are connected to the segment 6, in particular by a hinge, via a common ramp coupling element 9. The coupling sections 8 of the support elements 5 are connected to the ramp coupling element 9 in a top view of an extended part of the ramp 2 in the area of ​​different halves of the ramp 2 with respect to a center line of the ramp 2 running in the winding direction A of the ramp.The mobility of the respective support element 5 is the mobility of the support element 5, in particular its coupling section 8, relative to the housing 3. The ramp coupling element 9 is connected to the segment 6 along a predominant, preferably entire, width of the ramp 2. The ramp coupling element 9 is generally rod-shaped. The ramp coupling element 9 is connected to the segment 6, usually by a positive fit, a force fit, or a material fit. The ramp coupling element 9 can have a connection receptacle 10, in particular designed as a recess, wherein the segment 6 is connected to the ramp coupling element 9 at least sectionally by insertion into the connection receptacle 10, in particular by a positive fit.

[0049] The respective support element 5 is designed such that the coupling section 8 of the respective support element 5 is moved along the ramp coupling element 9 by means of the connection of the coupling section 8 to the segment 6, in order to support the segment 6. The respective support element 5 has several rod-shaped support element parts 11, wherein two of the support element parts 11 are articulated together so that the support element parts 11 can pivot relative to each other about an axis of rotation. In this way, the support element parts 11 form, in particular, an articulated arm component, wherein the support element parts 11 can be unfolded and / or folded relative to each other. In this way, the coupling section 8 of the respective support element 5 can be moved relative to each other by pivoting the support element parts 11.Preferably, two adjacent support element parts 11 are connected to each other in the longitudinal direction of one of the two support element parts 11 in a manner that allows them to be displaced relative to each other, particularly telescopically, such that the overall length of both support element parts 11 can be changed by the relative displacement. In this way, the coupling section 8 of the respective support element 5 can be moved relative to each other when the support element parts 11 are displaced. In particular, when the ramp 2 is extended, the second support element parts 11 can be displaced relative to each other, thus increasing the overall length of both support element parts 11 relative to each other.The respective support element 5 can be implemented, in particular in this way, with, in particular by, three interconnected support element parts 11, wherein two adjacent support element parts 11 are hingedly connected to each other and two adjacent support element parts 11 are connected to each other in the longitudinal direction of the two support element parts 11 so as to be slidably connected to each other. Such an implementation is shown in Fig. 3.

[0050] Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of the three support element parts 11 of Figure 3 of the respective support element 5, with the support element parts 11 shown separately as an example. The upper and middle support element parts 11 shown in Figure 9 can be connected to each other in a way that allows them to slide relative to each other in the longitudinal direction. The upper and middle support element parts 11 are inserted into each other in sections and can be connected to each other in a way that allows them to slide relative to each other. The upper support element part 11 has a guide, and the middle support element part 11 has one or more guide pins, wherein the guide pin can be inserted into the guide in a form-fitting manner to allow the support element parts 11 to slide relative to each other in a guided manner. The middle and lower support element parts 11 can be connected to each other by a hinge.For this purpose, the middle and lower support element parts 11 each have a joint part for the articulated connection of the two support element parts 11. The upper support element part 11 forms the connecting section 7 for the articulated connection with the housing 3. The lower support element part 11 forms the coupling section 8 for the articulated connection with the ramp coupling element 9.

[0051] Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of the ramp assembly 1 in a stowed position of the ramp 2. In the stowed position, the ramp 2 is preferably rolled up such that it is located essentially inside the housing 3, with the segment 6 and / or the ramp coupling element 9 being located outside the housing 3. The ramp coupling element 9 can be positioned essentially directly or in the immediate vicinity of the housing 3, in front of the housing opening 12.

[0052] The ramp device 1 typically includes a rotatable winding shaft 14 arranged in the housing 3. As the winding shaft 14 rotates, the ramp 2 is at least partially wound around the shaft 14 to assume the stowed position, and at least partially unwound from the shaft 14 to assume the operating position. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of the ramp device 1 in the stowed position of the ramp 2 without a lateral cover of the housing 3 of the ramp device 1; the ramp 2 itself is not shown. The winding shaft 14 is usually driven by a motor to rotate it. The winding shaft 14 can be rod-shaped. The motor is preferably arranged at least partially, and in particular essentially entirely, within the winding shaft 14. For this purpose, the winding shaft 14 can be hollow, at least in sections.The winding shaft 14 can have a mounting receptacle 21, in particular designed as a recess, into which a mounting area of ​​the ramp 2 is inserted at least partially, in particular in a form-fitting manner, in order to connect the mounting area, in particular in the mounting receptacle 21, to the winding shaft 14. The length of the winding shaft is preferably at least equal to the average width, in particular of a part of the ramp that can be wound onto the winding shaft during use.

[0053] It is advantageous if the average width of ramp 2 is variable, particularly if it is controllable. This can be practically implemented if ramp 2 is formed in the lateral direction B of ramp 2 with several adjacent, overlapping ramp sections 13, wherein the ramp sections 13 are displaceable relative to each other in the lateral direction B in order to vary the average width of ramp 2 by displacing the ramp sections 13 relative to each other. The winding shaft 14 can be formed along a longitudinal axis of the winding shaft 14 with several winding shaft sections 15 that are displaceable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the winding shaft 14, wherein different winding shaft sections 15 are connected to different ramp sections 13 in order to displace the ramp sections 13 relative to each other by displacing the winding shaft sections 15 relative to each other and thus varying the average width of ramp 2.The displacement of the winding shaft sections 15 can be driven, and in particular controlled, by the motor. The winding shaft 14 can thus function as a width adjustment device for varying the average width of the ramp 2. Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of winding shaft sections 15 of the winding shaft 14 of the ramp device 1, arranged side by side along the longitudinal axis of the winding shaft 14. One of the winding shaft sections 15 has a pin receptacle, and the other has a pin at least partially inserted into the pin receptacle. This allows the winding shaft sections 15 to be displaced relative to each other by varying, in particular controlled, the insertion depth of the pin into the pin receptacle. It is practical if the winding shaft sections 15 can be displaced relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the winding shaft 14 in such a way that the longitudinal extent of the winding shaft 14 is varied by the displacement.The housing 3 can have several housing parts 16 that are displaceable relative to each other in a longitudinal direction of the winding shaft 14, wherein the housing parts 16 are coupled to the winding shaft 14 such that a variation in the longitudinal extent of the winding shaft 14 corresponds to a variation in the extent of the housing 3 in the longitudinal direction of the winding shaft 14. Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of the housing parts 16 of the housing 3 of the ramp device 1, in which the housing parts 16 are shown separately from each other. The housing parts 16 can have at least one groove and at least one pin, such that the pin is arranged to be displaceably guided in the groove in order to displace the housing parts 16 relative to each other along the longitudinal direction of the winding shaft 14.The ramp coupling element 9 can be formed with several ramp coupling element parts 17 that are displaceable relative to each other along a width direction B of the ramp 2, wherein different ramp coupling element parts 17 are connected to different ramp sections 13 in order to displace the ramp coupling element parts 17 relative to each other in accordance with the change in length of the winding shaft 14 and / or the change in length of the housing 3. Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of ramp coupling element parts 17 of the ramp coupling element 9. One of the ramp coupling element parts 17 can have a pin receptacle and the other ramp coupling element part can have a pin at least partially inserted into the pin receptacle in order to displace the ramp coupling element parts relative to each other by varying the insertion depth of the pin into the pin receptacle.

[0054] Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of a section of the ramp device 1 arranged on the trunk 19 of the vehicle 4 according to Fig. 1 from a view from an oblique top.The ramp device 1 has several curved mounting arms 18 to attach the ramp device 1 pivotably about a pivot axis within the trunk 19 of the vehicle 4 at one end of the respective mounting arm 18, so that the housing 3 in the stowed position can be pivoted from a storage position located behind a trunk edge 20 of the trunk 19 within the trunk 19 by pivoting the ramp device 1 about the pivot axis and overcoming the trunk edge 20 by the respective mounting arm 18 into an operating position located in front of the trunk edge 20, in order to extend the ramp 2 from the stowed position into the usable position in a direction away from the vehicle 4, usually oriented diagonally downwards.

[0055] In this way, the ramp system 1, with its typically motor-driven extension of ramp 2 from the stowed position to the operating position, at least partially unrolling the ramp 2, while segment 6 is supported along the extension path by the support arms, offers a high degree of practicality and ease of handling in use, particularly when the ramp system 1 is used as a dog entry aid for a vehicle 4. Specifically, the variable average width of ramp 2 allows for a high degree of compactness in the stowed position and / or flexible adaptability to specific operating conditions. This enables the ramp system 1 to be highly practical in various applications.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Ramp device (1), in particular as a dog entry aid for a vehicle (4), wherein the ramp device (1) has a ramp (2), characterized in that the ramp (2), in particular with a drive, can be extended from a stowed position in which the ramp (2) is at least partially rolled up, by at least partially unrolling the ramp (2) into a usable position, wherein the ramp device (1) has a movable, in particular extendable, support element (5), preferably in the form of a support arm, in order to carry, preferably support, a segment (6) of the ramp (2) along an extension path during the extension of the ramp (2) into the usable position by moving the support element (5).

2. Ramp device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the ramp device (1) has a housing (3) in which the ramp (2) is at least partially rolled up in the stowed position and from which the ramp (2) can be at least partially extended to assume the usable position.

3. Ramp device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the ramp device (1) has a rotatable winding shaft (14) around which the ramp (2) is at least partially wound up in the stowed position, wherein preferably the winding shaft (14) is coupled to the drive for rotating the winding shaft (14).

4. Ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a coupling section (8), in particular an end-side, of the support element (5) and the segment (6) of the ramp (2) are coupled together, so that the coupling section (8) is moved along with the segment (6) during the extension of the ramp (2) in order to carry the segment (6) with the support element (5) over the coupling section (8), in particular to support it.

5. Ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the support element (5) has several support element parts (11), wherein adjacent support element parts (11) are articulated together and / or adjacent support element parts (11) are displaceable in the longitudinal direction of one of the support element parts (11) relative to each other, in particular telescopically, in order to move the support element (11) to support the segment (6).

6. Ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the ramp device (1) has two support elements (5), in particular two support arms, which support the segment (6) on different halves with respect to a center line of the ramp (2).

7. Ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the support element (5), in particular the coupling section of the support element (5), is pivotally connected to the segment (6) via a ramp coupling element (9) of the ramp device (1), wherein preferably the ramp coupling element (9) is connected to the segment (6) along a predominant width of the ramp (2) on the segment (6).

8. Ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that an average width of the ramp (2) is variable, in particular controllable.

9. Ramp device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the ramp (2) in the width direction (B) of the ramp (2) is formed with several, in particular overlapping, ramp sections (13) that can be moved relative to each other, in order to vary the average width of the ramp (2) by moving the ramp sections (13) relative to each other.

10. Ramp device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the ramp device (1) has a width adjustment device with several coupling components that are movable relative to each other, in particular controllably, wherein different of the coupling components are connected to different of the ramp sections (13) in order to move the ramp sections (13) relative to each other by moving the coupling components relative to each other to vary the width of the ramp (2).

11. Ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the ramp device (1) has one or more curved mounting arms (18) to attach the ramp device (1) to an external object with one end of the respective mounting arm (18) pivotable about a pivot axis, so that the ramp device (1) in the stowed position can be pivoted from a storage position located behind an edge, in particular a loading area edge, of the external object to an operating position located at a front edge by pivoting the ramp device (1) about the pivot axis with the mounting arm (18) extending over the edge.

12. Vehicle (4), in particular car, with a ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11.

13. Method for operating a ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the ramp (2) is extended from the stowed position into the operating position by at least partially rolling the ramp (2), wherein during the extension of the ramp (2) into the operating position the segment (6) of the ramp (2) is carried by the support element (5) along the extension path by movement, in particular extension, of the support element (5).

14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that during and / or after the ramp (2) is extended into the operating position, an average width of the ramp (2) is varied, in particular by motor drive, and in particular increased.

15. Use of a ramp device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11 as a dog entry aid for a vehicle (2).

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