DE102018220377A1 - Vehicle, vehicle system and method for operating a vehicle system - Google Patents

Abstract

In order to provide a vehicle by means of which an efficient transport of transport elements is made possible and which is versatile, it is proposed that the vehicle comprise a base section and two legs, the base section being arranged essentially transversely to a main direction of travel of the vehicle, the two legs extend away from the base section, the vehicle comprising a component of a contact device for displacing the transport element relative to the vehicle and / or for establishing and / or locking a connection between the transport element and the vehicle, the transport element being receivable between the legs and / or can be accommodated by means of the legs, the contact device being able to be operated and / or operated automatically, and the contact device comprising at least one drive element.

Description

The present invention relates to a vehicle, in particular for transporting a transport element.

The invention further relates to a vehicle system comprising a vehicle according to the invention and a transport element.

The invention further relates to a method for operating a vehicle system.

Vehicle systems are from the DE 2008 023 645 A1 , the DE 20 2010 016 249 U1 and the DE 10 2013 113 729 A1 known.

The present invention has for its object to provide a vehicle by means of which an efficient transport of transport elements is made possible and which is versatile.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a vehicle, in particular for transporting a transport element, the vehicle comprising a base section and two legs, the base section being arranged essentially transversely to a main direction of travel of the vehicle, the two legs extending away from the base section , wherein the vehicle comprises a component of a contact device for displacing the transport element relative to the vehicle and / or for establishing and / or locking a connection between the transport element and the vehicle, the transport element being receivable between the legs and / or receivable by means of the legs , wherein the contact device can be operated and / or is operated automatically and wherein the contact device comprises at least one drive element.

The transport element is preferably displaceable by means of the contact device relative to the vehicle along or opposite to at least one movement direction arranged transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the main direction of travel of the vehicle.

The transport element preferably comprises further, in particular all other, components of the contact device.

The two legs are preferably arranged parallel to one another and / or parallel to the main direction of travel of the vehicle.

The base section is preferably arranged at the front in the main direction of travel.

The vehicle has at least approximately a U-shape, in particular in a cross section taken parallel to a horizontal longitudinal center plane of the vehicle.

It can be favorable if the vehicle is ground-bound. The vehicle is preferably a road vehicle.

The transport element is preferably a passenger compartment.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the transport element is a transport container for goods to be transported, in particular for parcels.

In an operation of the vehicle it can be provided that a transport element designed as a passenger cell is transported during day operation and that a transport container for parcels is transported during night operation of the vehicle.

It can be provided that the contact device comprises one or more contact areas. It can be provided here that all contact areas are designed as lifting and locking areas and fulfill both a lifting function and a locking function.

Alternatively, it can be provided that one contact area is a lifting area and another contact area is a locking area. The lifting and locking functions are then preferably spatially and / or mechanically separate from one another. For example, the transport element is raised relative to the vehicle before the vehicle and transport element are brought into a locked state.

It can be expedient if the contact device comprises a plurality of contact areas and if at least one contact area of the one or more contact areas comprises a locking element which can be brought into engagement with a receiving element of the transport element in order to fix the transport element to the vehicle.

The locking element is preferably arranged on the vehicle, in particular integrated into one of the legs of the vehicle. The receiving element is preferably arranged on the transport element and / or integrated in a base element or a base body of the transport element.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the locking element is formed on and / or in the transport element and that the receiving element is arranged on and / or in the vehicle.

The following features and / or advantages apply equally to locking elements arranged on and / or in the transport element and to receiving elements arranged on and / or in the vehicle.

In a locked position of the locking element, movement of the locking element relative to the receiving element in one or more directions, which run parallel to a horizontal longitudinal center plane of the vehicle, is preferably blocked.

In embodiments in which contact areas are arranged on different legs of the vehicle or integrated into them, in a locked state of the vehicle and transport element, forces and / or moments, in particular lateral forces, which act between the vehicle and / or the transport element when the vehicle is traveling , recorded and / or distributed.

Due to the integration of the contact areas in the legs of the vehicle, protruding parts can be avoided. This reduces the risk of injury to users and drivers.

Contact areas integrated into the legs are particularly aesthetically pleasing.

Preferably, a locked state of the vehicle and the transport element, in which the locking element is in a locked position, is decoupled from a raised state, in which the transport element is raised. In particular, the transport element can be raised and / or lowered relative to the vehicle in a locked state.

It can be advantageous if the locking element can be brought into the locked position by means of a drive element of the contact area, the locking element, in particular by pivoting about a pivot axis, which is preferably arranged along the main direction of travel, and / or by a linear movement of the locking element vertically and / or parallel to the main direction of travel of the vehicle, can be brought into the locked position.

It can be provided that each contact area comprises a plurality of drive elements, for example a drive element for bringing the locking element into a locked position and a further drive element for raising and / or lowering the transport element relative to the vehicle.

Alternatively, it can be provided that a drive element drives both moving the locking element into a locked and / or unlocked position and a lifting movement and / or lowering movement of the transport element relative to the vehicle.

The locking element preferably comprises a centering element, wherein in a locked position of the locking element the centering element is positively connected to a centering receptacle of the receiving element.

It can be favorable if the centering element is at least approximately dovetail-shaped or comprises a centering cone, the centering cone tapering in particular in the direction of gravity. For example, the centering cone is a truncated cone. In particular, in the locked position of the locking element, the centering element is received in a centering receptacle of the receiving element.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the centering element is designed in a different shape, for example cylindrical or pyramid-shaped. The centering receptacle is complementary to a shape of the centering element, in particular in the area of contact surfaces.

It can be expedient if the centering element in the locked position of the locking element rests and / or rests on a surface of a wall delimiting the centering receptacle. The wall of the centering receptacle in particular forms a stop for the centering element in directions that run parallel to the horizontal longitudinal center plane of the vehicle.

The locking element can preferably be positioned by means of a drive element such that the centering element is arranged above the centering receptacle with respect to the direction of gravity. By lifting the transport element and the centering receptacle arranged therein, a positive connection between the centering element and the centering receptacle can be produced and / or generated.

It can be provided that the contact area comprises a securing element for securing the locked position of the locking element in a direction arranged perpendicular to the main direction of travel of the vehicle.

The securing element can preferably be brought from a release position into a securing position and vice versa by means of a drive element, in particular pneumatically, and / or by means of the spring force of a spring element.

Alternatively, the securing element can be moved hydraulically, for example by means of a hydraulic drive element, from the release position into the securing position and vice versa.

In a securing position of the securing element, a positive and / or non-positive connection is preferably formed in a direction perpendicular to the main direction of travel and perpendicular to the horizontal longitudinal center plane between the locking element and the securing element.

In a release position of the securing element, movement of the locking element is preferably not affected by the securing element.

It can be expedient if at least one contact area of the contact device comprises a receiving element and a locking element, the receiving element being arranged on the transport element, the locking element being arranged on the vehicle, the locking element being able to be brought into a raised and locked position by means of a drive element and wherein the locking element engages in the raised and locked position in a projection in the receiving element and / or engages behind a projection in the receiving element.

The projection is designed in particular as an undercut. A space, which is arranged behind the projection, in particular with respect to a direction perpendicular to the main direction of travel, in which the centering element is received in the locked position, in particular forms the centering receptacle.

The locking element preferably comprises a roller element, by means of which the locking element can roll along a ceiling wall of the receiving element. The roller element forms in particular a centering element, in particular since it can be fixed and / or centered by means of the projection.

It can be favorable if the receiving element forms a pocket in the transport element.

The locking element is preferably pivotally mounted by means of a drive element of the contact area about a pivot axis, which is arranged in particular along the main direction of travel of the vehicle. In particular, the locking element can be brought into a raised and locked position by pivoting. The locking element preferably slides and / or rolls into the locked position by means of the drive element during pivoting, in particular after the start of lifting. The roller element in particular serves this purpose.

In the locked state, the vehicle and the transport element are preferably connected to one another in a force-transmitting manner by means of the contact device.

It can be provided that at least one contact area of the contact device comprises a lifting element, wherein the lifting element can preferably be brought into a folded position by means of a drive element of the contact area or by spring loading, in particular parallel to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle.

"Parallel" preferably includes a deviation of ± 30 °, in particular ± 15 °.

In particular, the lifting element, preferably by means of a drive element of the contact area or by spring loading, can be brought into an extended position, in particular perpendicular to the vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle.

The transport element can preferably be gripped by the lifting element in the folded-out position of the lifting element and can be raised and / or lowered relative to the vehicle by means of the drive element together with the lifting element.

“Vertical” preferably includes a deviation of ± 30 °, in particular ± 15 °.

In embodiments in which the lifting element can be brought into an extended and / or retracted position by a spring load, a drive element is preferably unnecessary. Due to a spring loading by means of a spring element, the unfolded position of the lifting element can be mechanically forced, for example when the lifting element is lowered. When the lifting element is lifted, the spring force is released in particular and the lifting element changes into the folded position.

For reaching under the transport element by means of the lifting element, it can be advantageous if the transport element has a continuous edge or if the transport element has a base element with a reduced base area compared to the base body and / or if the transport element has one or more foot elements by means of which it is kept at a distance from the ground. This makes it easier to reach under the transport element.

A base area of the base body, which is arranged on the base element, can also be used be formed a width that is greater than a distance between the legs of the vehicle perpendicular to the direction of travel.

The transport element can preferably be raised and / or lowered symmetrically from both sides (both legs) of the vehicle.

A drive element of a contact area of the contact device preferably comprises a spindle and a motor for driving the spindle, in particular an electric motor, the transport element being able to be raised and / or lowered by means of the drive element.

The contact area preferably comprises a guide device, which comprises a sliding guide, a recirculating ball guide or a roller guide, by means of which rod elements (in the case of a sliding guide and / or a recirculating ball guide) or rail elements (in the case of a roller guide) are guided. The lifting element is fixed to the bar elements or rail elements, joints and / or a force distribution element, for example a plate-shaped force distribution element, being provided for absorbing and / or distributing radial forces.

Alternatively, the lifting element together with the transport element can also be raised and / or lowered by means of a hydraulic drive.

It can be advantageous if the contact device comprises four contact areas, two of the four contact areas being arranged one behind the other along the main direction of travel of the vehicle.

In particular, two of the four contact areas are each arranged mirror-symmetrically with respect to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle.

For example, transverse forces can preferably be absorbed in an optimized manner.

The vehicle is preferably driverless, self-driving and / or autonomously movable.

The invention further relates to a vehicle system comprising a vehicle according to the invention and a transport element.

The features and / or advantages carried out in connection with the vehicle according to the invention apply equally to the vehicle system according to the invention.

The vehicle system preferably includes the contact device, which has one or more contact areas.

• - Bereitstellen eines Fahrzeugs;
• - Bereitstellen eines Transportelements;
• - Positionieren des Fahrzeugs relativ zu dem Transportelement, so dass zwei Schenkel des Fahrzeugs das Transportelement umgreifen und/oder aufnehmen;
• - Anheben des Transportelements; und
• - Verriegeln der Schenkel des Fahrzeugs mit dem Transportelement.

The invention further relates to a method for operating a vehicle system, comprising a vehicle, in particular a vehicle according to the invention, and a transport element, the method comprising the following:

• - providing a vehicle;
• - Provision of a transport element;
• - Positioning the vehicle relative to the transport element so that two legs of the vehicle grip and / or take up the transport element;
• - lifting the transport element; and
• - Lock the legs of the vehicle with the transport element.

The features and / or advantages described in connection with the vehicle according to the invention apply equally to the method according to the invention.

It can be favorable if the locking is carried out by means of one or more contact areas of a contact device, at least one locking element of a contact area being brought into a locked position by means of a drive element of the contact area, in which a centering element of the locking element is moved by a centering seat of a receiving element is fixed in a horizontal longitudinal median plane of the vehicle.

The locking element preferably comprises a holding arm, which can be displaced horizontally relative to the transport element in an unconnected state with the vehicle by means of a drive element until it is arranged within the receiving element, in particular a centering space of the receiving element.

The transport element is then preferably raised above the lifting element of the vehicle, in particular by means of the drive element, until the centering element is and / or is received by the centering receptacle. For example, the vehicle and the transport element can be brought into the locked state.

In the locked state, transverse forces that occur are preferably transmitted via the structure of the transport element and a U-shape formed by the legs and the base section is stabilized.

The transport element and the vehicle are locked in a fully automated manner and / or without manual intervention.

It can be advantageous if the lifting is carried out by means of one or more contact areas of a contact device, at least one lifting element of a contact area of the one or more contact areas being brought into an unfolded position, in particular perpendicular to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the vehicle, the lifting element being the Reaches under the transport element and the lifting element is raised together with the transport element by means of a drive element of the contact area relative to the legs of the vehicle.

The transport element is preferably arranged behind the vehicle in the main direction of travel. Then, in particular, the lifting elements are pivoted into the unfolded position before the vehicle is moved against the main direction of travel until the transport element is arranged centrally in a receiving space of the vehicle. Here, the lifting elements preferably reach under the transport element or engage laterally, for example in rails.

It can be provided that the lifting elements are provided with a sliding plastic. For example, the sliding plastic is applied as a coating. This can make it easier to reach under the transport element.

The vehicle and the transport element are preferably locked together, in particular brought into the locked state, by lifting the transport element.

Vehicle systems in which the transport element is a passenger cell can be used, for example, in local public transport and / or for the transport of passengers by municipal and private operators.

Vehicle systems in which the transport element is a transport container can be used, for example, by parcel service providers (courier services, parcel services etc.), in particular in the area of intralogistics, by forwarding agents and / or in general in the transport industry.

• - das Fahrzeugsystem ist fahrerlos betreibbar;
• - Flexibilität in Bezug auf Größe und Ausstattung des Transportelements;
• - Standardisierbarkeit von Prozessen; und/oder
• - Verwendbarkeit eines elektrischen Antriebselements, auch zum Antrieb des Fahrzeugs; und/oder
• - hohe Nutzungsgrade (vgl. Tagbetrieb und Nachtbetrieb); und/oder
• - Ladepausen aufgrund von Batterien im Transportelement sind entbehrlich; und/oder
• - Kostenreduktion und/oder zusätzliche Einnahmen aufgrund einer effizienten Nutzung (vgl. Tagbetrieb und Nachtbetrieb); und/oder
• - vollautomatisches Abstellen und/oder Aufnehmen des Transportelements durch das Fahrzeug; und/oder
• - modulares Wechselsystem, bei welchem das Transportelement auswechselbar ist.

Further features and / or advantages of the vehicle system are in particular:

• - The vehicle system can be operated without a driver;
• - Flexibility in terms of size and equipment of the transport element;
• - standardization of processes; and or
• - Usability of an electric drive element, also for driving the vehicle; and or
• - high levels of utilization (see daytime and nighttime operation); and or
• - Charging breaks due to batteries in the transport element are unnecessary; and or
• - cost reduction and / or additional income due to efficient use (see day and night operation); and or
• - Fully automatic parking and / or picking up the transport element by the vehicle; and or
• - Modular change system in which the transport element can be exchanged.

An energy supply in the transport element is preferably unnecessary.

A change of the transport element is preferably possible while the vehicle system is in operation.

It can be provided that an opening for one or more transport elements is integrated in buildings, in which one or more transport elements can be accommodated when they are not being transported by the vehicle.

Special stops can be set up for boarding and / or disembarking passengers in a transport element and / or existing stops can be used.

Additionally or alternatively, depots can be set up for the storage of transport elements.

Further preferred features and / or advantages of the invention are the subject of the following description and the drawing of exemplary embodiments.

• 1 eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung einer Ausführungsform eines Fahrzeugsystems, umfassend ein Fahrzeug und ein Transportelement, in einem Zustand vor der Aufnahme des Transportelements mittels des Fahrzeugs;
• 2 eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines Fahrzeugs, bei welcher vier Kontaktbereiche vorgesehen sind, welche in Schenkel des Fahrzeugs integriert sind;
• 3 eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung einer Ausführungsform eines Kontaktbereichs, umfassend ein Hebeelement in einer ausgeklappten Position;
• 4 eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung des Kontaktbereichs aus 4, wobei das Hebeelement in einer eingeklappten Position dargestellt ist;
• 5 eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines Kontaktbereichs, umfassend eine Rollenführung, wobei ein Hebeelement in einer ausgeklappten Position dargestellt ist;
• 6 eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung des Kontaktbereichs aus 5, wobei das Hebeelement in einer eingeklappten Position dargestellt ist;
• 7 eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines Kontaktbereichs, wobei ein Verriegelungselement in einer entriegelten Position dargestellt ist, wobei das Verriegelungselement des Fahrzeugs einen Zentrierkegel umfasst und wobei ein Aufnahmeelement des Transportelements eine komplementär dazu ausgebildete Zentrieraufnahme umfasst;
• 8 der Kontaktbereich aus 7, wobei ein Verriegelungselement in einer Position während des Verriegelns dargestellt ist, wobei das Verriegelungselement mittels eines Antriebselements derart positioniert ist, dass der Zentrierkegel und die Zentrieraufnahme in Schwerkraftrichtung übereinander angeordnet sind;
• 9 der Kontaktbereich aus den 7 und 8, wobei das Verriegelungselement in einer verriegelten Position dargestellt ist, wobei der Zentrierkegel des Verriegelungselements von der Zentrieraufnahme des Aufnahmeelements aufgenommen ist;
• 10 eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines Kontaktbereichs, wobei ein Verriegelungselement in einer entriegelten Position dargestellt ist, wobei das Verriegelungselement im Wesentlichen schwalbenschwanzförmig ausgebildet ist und ein Aufnahmeelement des Transportelements Zentrieranschläge aufweist, welche im Bereich von Anlageflächen komplementär zu der Schwalbenschwanzform des Verriegelungselements ausgebildet sind;
• 11 der Kontaktbereich aus 10, wobei das Verriegelungselement in einer Position während des Verriegelns dargestellt ist;
• 12 der Kontaktbereich aus den 10 und 11, wobei das Verriegelungselement in einer verriegelten Position dargestellt ist;
• 13 eine Schnittdarstellung einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines Kontaktbereichs einer Kontaktvorrichtung, wobei ein Verriegelungselement in einer entriegelten Position dargestellt ist; und
• 14 der Kontaktbereich aus 13, wobei das Verriegelungselement in einer angehobenen und verriegelten Position dargestellt ist.

The drawings show:

• 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a vehicle system, comprising a vehicle and a transport element, in a state before the transport element is received by means of the vehicle;
• 2nd is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a vehicle, in which four contact areas are provided, which are integrated in the legs of the vehicle;
• 3rd is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a contact area, comprising a lifting element in an extended position;
• 4th is a schematic perspective view of the contact area 4th , wherein the lifting element is shown in a folded position;
• 5 is a schematic perspective view of a further embodiment of a contact area, comprising a roller guide, wherein a lifting element is shown in an extended position;
• 6 is a schematic perspective view of the contact area 5 , wherein the lifting element is shown in a folded position;
• 7 is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a contact area, wherein a locking element is shown in an unlocked position, wherein the locking element of the vehicle comprises a centering cone and wherein a receiving element of the transport element comprises a complementary centering receptacle;
• 8th the contact area 7 , wherein a locking element is shown in a position during locking, the locking element being positioned by means of a drive element such that the centering cone and the centering receptacle are arranged one above the other in the direction of gravity;
• 9 the contact area from the 7 and 8th , wherein the locking element is shown in a locked position, wherein the centering cone of the locking element is received by the centering receptacle of the receiving element;
• 10th a schematic perspective view of a further embodiment of a contact area, a locking element being shown in an unlocked position, the locking element being essentially dovetail-shaped and a receiving element of the transport element having centering stops which are designed in the area of contact surfaces complementary to the dovetail shape of the locking element;
• 11 the contact area 10th , wherein the locking element is shown in a position during locking;
• 12 the contact area from the 10th and 11 , wherein the locking element is shown in a locked position;
• 13 a sectional view of another embodiment of a contact area of a contact device, wherein a locking element is shown in an unlocked position; and
• 14 the contact area 13 , wherein the locking element is shown in a raised and locked position.

Identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols in all figures.

One as a whole with 100 Designated embodiment of a vehicle system is used, for example, as a transport system for transporting passengers or goods.

The vehicle system 100 preferably comprises a vehicle 102 and a transport element 104 . The transport element 104 serves in particular to accommodate passengers or transport goods that are connected to the vehicle system 100 to be promoted.

The transport element 104 preferably has an at least approximately cuboid base body 106 on. The basic body 106 is in particular of a hollow cuboid shape and surrounds an interior for receiving passengers or goods to be transported.

It can be beneficial if the base body 106 on a base element 108 of the transport element 104 is arranged and in particular on the base element 108 is set. The base element 108 preferably serves for a simplified reception of the transport element 104 through the vehicle 102 .

The transport element is preferably 104 in the area of the base element 108 with the vehicle 102 can be brought into contact.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the base body 106 the transport element 104 forms. In particular, there are recesses in the base body 106 provided by means of which the transport element 104 from the vehicle 102 is recordable and / or lockable with it (cf. 3rd to 14 ).

Contacting the vehicle 102 with the transport element 104 is in the 3rd to 14 shown. The contact will be detailed later.

The vehicle 102 preferably has at least approximately a U-shape in a horizontal section, legs of the U-shape in particular of legs 112 of the vehicle 102 are formed. The thigh 112 of the vehicle 102 are preferably essentially transverse to a main direction of travel 114 aligned base section 116 connected with each other.

The two legs 112 and the base section 116 preferably delimit a recording space 118 to accommodate the transport element 104 , with the thighs 112 and the base section 116 the recording room 118 especially surrounded on three sides. The vehicle 102 preferably further comprises four wheels 120 which are rotatable on a supporting structure of the vehicle 102 are set.

The supporting structure is preferably from the two legs 112 and the base section 116 educated.

The vehicle 102 is preferably ground-based. In particular, it can be driven without a driver.

As especially in one in 2nd illustrated further embodiment of the vehicle 102 can be seen includes the vehicle 102 a contact device 122 which in particular in the thighs 112 of the vehicle 102 is integrated and / or incorporated therein.

The contact device 122 serves in particular to raise and / or lower at least along and / or opposite to a direction of movement 124 which are parallel to the direction of gravity 138 is arranged. The direction of movement 124 preferably runs parallel to the vertical longitudinal median plane 110 of the vehicle 102 and / or perpendicular to the main direction of travel 114 .

Preferably close the direction of movement 124 and the direction of gravity 138 an acute angle with each other.

The contact device also serves 122 preferably locking the vehicle 102 and the transport element 104 together.

The contact device comprises in particular for a symmetrical introduction of force and / or for stabilization 122 preferably several, in particular four, contact areas 125 . The contact areas 125 are preferably in the recording room 118 facing insides 128 the thigh 112 arranged and / or in the legs 112 integrated.

It can be beneficial if the contact areas 125 in an unlocked state of the vehicle 102 and the transport element 104 essentially with the inside 128 the thigh 112 to lock. The contact areas 125 are preferably with respect to a plane of symmetry, which is the vertical longitudinal center plane 110 of the vehicle 102 corresponds, arranged mirror-symmetrically to each other and / or formed. So can in a locked state of the vehicle 102 and the transport element 104 Forces and moments occurring evenly on both legs 112 be distributed.

In particular, there are two in one leg 112 arranged contact areas 125 with respect to a further plane of symmetry, which is perpendicular to the main direction of travel 114 runs, arranged in mirror symmetry and / or formed. The further plane of symmetry is in particular perpendicular to the vertical longitudinal center plane 110 and to the horizontal median longitudinal plane 136 of the vehicle 102 arranged.

It can be advantageous if two contact areas each 125 in one leg 112 to the wheels 120 are arranged and / or along the main direction of travel 114 have a distance from one another which is at least approximately half the length of a leg 112 or more.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the contact device 122 more than four contact areas 125 includes.

For a symmetrical distribution of force and weight with respect to the vertical longitudinal median plane 110 of the vehicle 102 it may be advantageous if the contact device 122 an even number of contact areas 125 comprises, with half of the contact areas 125 in one leg 112 and the other half of the contact areas 125 in the other leg 112 of the vehicle 102 is arranged.

Each contact area preferably comprises 125 a drive element 130 to drive a lifting and / or lowering movement of the transport element 104 and in particular for driving a lock of the transport element 104 with the vehicle 102 .

In the 3rd and 4th is another embodiment of a contact area 125 shown in which the contact area 125 as the stroke range 126a for lifting and / or lowering the transport element 104 is trained.

The stroke range 126a preferably comprises a drive element 130 , a guide device 132 and a lifting element 134 .

For lifting and / or lowering, the lifting element reaches under 134 the transport element 104 preferably in a direction of gravity 138 from below or laterally engages in recesses in the side walls of the transport element 104 a.

So that the lifting element 134 the transport element 134 reach under and the weight of the transport element 134 by means of the lifting element 134 in the stroke range 126a can be raised and / or lowered, the lifting element 134 in the present case brought into an extended position (cf. 3rd ). In the extended position (cf. 3rd ) is a main plane of extension of the lifting element 134 preferably parallel to the horizontal median longitudinal plane 136 of the vehicle 102 arranged.

The lifting element 134 is present at one with respect to the direction of gravity 138 lower end of the stroke range 126a arranged. The lifting element is preferably 134 by means of a folding joint 140 from the extended position to a retracted position (cf. 4th ) bringable.

A pivot axis of the folding joint 140 is along the main direction of travel 114 of the vehicle 102 arranged.

In the folded position is a main plane of extension of the lifting element 134 preferably substantially parallel to the vertical longitudinal median plane 110 of the vehicle 102 arranged (cf. 4th ).

It can be provided that in the folding joint 140 a spring element is integrated, by means of which due to a spring load when the lifting element is lowered 134 the unfolded position can be mechanically forced and / or is forced.

For this purpose, in particular a stop or a link is provided, by means of which the lifting element 134 is and / or will be held in a lowered position in the extended position. When the lifting element is lowered 134 (by means of the drive element 130 ) the spring element is tensioned in particular by means of the stop or the link and the unfolded position is brought about.

When lifting the lifting element 134 (by means of the drive element 130 ) reduces the tension of the spring element and the lifting element 134 returns to the folded position.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the lifting element 134 by means of the drive element 130 from the unfolded position to the retracted position and / or vice versa.

The drive element 130 preferably serves to provide a required lifting force and to drive the lowering and / or lifting movement.

The drive element 130 preferably includes a motor 142 , especially an electric motor 144 , and a spindle 146 .

By means of the electric motor 144 is the spindle 146 preferably rotatable, whereby in particular the lifting and / or lowering movement of the lifting element 134 (and the transport element carried by it 104 ) can be driven and / or driven.

It can be favorable if the drive element 130 a gearbox 148 comprises a change in a force torque and / or torque of the rotational movement of the spindle 146 serves.

It can be provided that by means of the gear 148 a speed of the spindle 146 is reduced. This can be particularly the case when lifting transport elements 104 heavy weight can be an advantage. Because of the speed reduction, a force torque is preferably increased in comparison to a force torque without speed reduction.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the transport element 104 over the lifting element 134 hydraulically, for example by means of a hydraulic motor, can be raised and / or lowered.

As an alternative to a hydraulic motor, which is the spindle 146 drives, a hydraulic cylinder can also be provided. Here, the lifting force for lifting and / or lowering the lifting element 134 applied in particular by means of the hydraulic cylinder. A spindle 134 and a gear 148 are preferably unnecessary when using a hydraulic cylinder.

The stroke range preferably comprises 126a a guide device 132 which of the guide of the lifting element 134 and the transport element placed on it 104 serves.

The guide device 132 preferably comprises several, in particular two, rod elements 150 which along the main direction of travel 114 of the vehicle 102 are arranged one behind the other and each of two guide elements 152 are enclosed.

Longitudinal axes of the bar elements 150 are in particular perpendicular to the main direction of travel 114 and along the direction of movement 124 arranged.

The leadership elements 152 are preferably sliding guides or recirculating ball guides or a combination thereof.

In the case of a recirculating ball guide are inside the guide elements 152 to the Bar elements 150 arranged around spherical rolling elements, which guide low-friction translational movement of the rod elements 150 , in particular along or opposite to the direction of movement 124 , train.

In the case of a sliding guide, the rod elements are 150 and guide elements 152 not separated from each other by rolling elements. For example, a sliding coating reduces friction between rod elements 150 and guide elements 152 used.

The guide device 132 preferably serves to absorb forces and / or moments caused by the rotational movement of the spindle 146 and / or while driving the vehicle 102 arise.

The lifting element is used to absorb lateral forces 134 in particular indirectly via a force distribution element 154 the contact device 122 on the guide device 132 fixed. The power distribution element 154 is in the present case essentially plate-shaped, with a main extension plane of the force distribution element 154 parallel to the vertical median longitudinal plane 110 of the vehicle 102 is arranged.

The power distribution element 154 is preferably by means of joints 156 on the guide device 132 fixed. In particular, the force distribution element 154 by means of joints 156 pivotable about swivel axes, which along the main direction of travel 114 of the vehicle 102 lie. The joints 156 are particularly on the narrow sides of the force distribution element 154 and on the guide elements 152 fixed.

The joints 156 are preferably provided so that only radial forces when guiding the lifting element 134 Act.

It can be provided that the contact area 125 a fixing element 160 comprises, which is, for example, plate-shaped. The fixing element 160 serves in particular to fix the stroke range 126a on and / or inside the legs 112 of the vehicle 102 and / or connects the guide elements 152 along the main direction of travel 114 of the vehicle 102 .

The fixing element 160 For example, has a main extension plane, which is parallel to the horizontal longitudinal center plane 136 of the vehicle 102 is arranged.

One in the 5 and 6 illustrated further embodiment of a lifting range 126a trained contact area 125 differs in structure and function essentially from that in 3rd and 4th illustrated embodiment that the guide device 132 includes a roller guide, in which instead of rod elements 150 two rail elements 162 are provided.

The rail elements 162 are by means of in the rail elements 162 guided roles 164 lengthways or opposite to the direction of movement 124 guided movable.

A power distribution element 154 is different from that in the 3rd and 4th illustrated embodiment on one of the lifting element 134 opposite side of the guide device 132 arranged. The power distribution element 154 connects the two rail elements, in particular to absorb and / or distribute transverse forces 162 .

An unfolded position of the lifting element 134 is in 5 shown while in 6 a folded position of the lifting element 134 is shown.

Incidentally, that is correct in the 5 and 6 illustrated embodiment with the in the 3rd and 4th illustrated embodiment in terms of structure and function, so that reference is made to the description thereof.

In the 7 to 9 is another embodiment of a contact area 125 shown in which the contact area 125 as a locking area 126b is trained.

It can be provided that the transport element 104 with the vehicle 102 in the locking area 126b is locked, in particular by lifting the transport element 104 together with a lifting element 134 in a stroke range 126a (for example a stroke range 126a according to 3rd and 4th or a stroke range 5 and 6 ).

For example, the transport element 104 together with the lifting element 134 in the locked state relative to the legs 112 of the vehicle 102 can be raised and / or lowered.

Is preferably a receiving element 170 in the transport element 104 integrated and / or in the transport element 104 educated.

The receiving element 170 preferably surrounds a centering space 172 five-sided. The receiving element 170 points to one of the closest legs 105 facing side in particular an opening on and / or is designed to be open.

In embodiments in which the receiving element 170 in a corner of the transport element 104 is arranged, surrounds the receiving element 170 the corresponding centering room 172 four-sided.

The centering room 172 is from walls of the receiving element 170 in the present case essentially surrounded by an open cuboid shape.

For example, the receiving element forms 170 a pocket for engaging a locking element 174a of the vehicle 102 .

At one regarding the direction of gravity 138 bottom wall formed below 176 has the receiving element 170 preferably a centering fixture 178 which, for example, as a recess 180 or recess is formed.

The centering fixture 178 is conical in the present case, in particular in the form of a truncated cone, and / or is centered in the bottom wall 176 of the receiving element 170 let in.

The locking element 174a is in particular a component of the vehicle 102 and by means of a drive element 130 movable.

The drive element 130 can use the same drive element 130 be used to raise and / or lower the transport element 104 together with the lifting element 134 (see. 3rd to 6 ) is used or a different drive element 130 .

The locking element 174a preferably comprises a base body 186 , whose longitudinal extension is four to six times greater than its extension in the other spatial directions.

This is the locking element 174a at least approximately cuboid and / or extends parallel to the horizontal longitudinal median plane 136 of the vehicle 102 . The locking element 174a points to a direction of gravity 138 bottom arranged below 182 of the locking element 174a preferably a centering cone 184 on.

The centering cone 184 is preferably conical, in particular in the form of a blunt cone, the conical shape being along one of the base body 186 of the locking element 174 tapering away.

7 shows the locking element 174a in an unlocked position in which the locking element 174 not in engagement with the receiving element 170 is.

In an unlocked position of the locking element 174a (see. 7 ) are the vehicle 102 and the transport element 104 in an unlocked state.

8th shows the locking area 126b during locking, in a transition of the locking element 174a from the unlocked position (cf. 7 ) in a locked position (cf. 9 ).

The locking element is in the locked position 174a with the receiving element 170 engaged. In particular, the centering cone 184 in direct material contact with a wall of the centering fixture 178 .

In the locked position of the locking element 174a are the vehicle 102 and the transport element 104 locked together (in a locked state).

The locking element is for locking, that is, for transferring to the locked position 174a preferably by means of the drive element 130 in the centering room 172 of the receiving element 170 insertable and positionable in such a way that central axes of the centering cone 184 and the conical centering seat, which is complementary to this, in particular in the area of contact surfaces 178 are identical.

Then the receiving element 170 by means of the drive element 130 together with the lifting element 134 relative to the vehicle 102 preferably liftable until the centering cone 184 in the centering fixture 178 is recorded and / or on a wall of the centering 178 lies on.

The locking element is an alternative to this 174a , preferably by means of the drive element 130 , can be lowered linearly until the centering cone 184 in the centering fixture 178 is recorded and / or on a wall of the centering 178 lies on.

For example, a locking mechanism comprises lifting the transport element 104 until the receiving element 170 level with the locking element 174a is; Align the transport element 104 by simultaneously extending several locking elements 174a ; and / or further lifting of the transport element 104 , causing the transport element 104 by means of the centering element 185 is centered.

Shear forces that occur when cornering are preferably transmitted due to a positive connection that occurs during locking.

In the locked position there is a displacement of the locking element 174a relative to the receiving element 170 in a direction of movement parallel to the horizontal longitudinal median plane 136 of the vehicle is preferably blocked.

The locking area 126b optionally includes a securing element 188 , which is a displacement of the locking element 174 in one or more directions perpendicular to the main direction of travel 114 , for example jumping out of the locking element 174 from the centering fixture 178 , blocked. The securing element 188 is indicated schematically.

It can be favorable if the securing element 188 is self-locking.

It can be provided that the securing element 188 by means of a drive element 130 or by means of a spring element, can be brought from a securing position into a release position and vice versa.

The drive element 130 can the drive element 130 be used to lock and / or unlock the locking element 174a is used, or a different one.

The securing element 188 is preferably in and / or on a ceiling wall 204 of the receiving element 170 arranged. The securing element is in the securing position 188 in particular so far that it is in one or more parallel to the vertical longitudinal median plane 110 and / or perpendicular to the main direction of travel 114 of the vehicle 102 extending directions a stop for the locking element 174a forms.

In particular, there is a frictional connection and / or positive connection between the securing element 188 and the locking element 174a educated.

The securing element restricts in the release position 188 a movement of the locking element 174a preferably not one.

Alternatively, it can be provided that the securing element 188 in a side wall of the receiving element 170 is arranged (not shown).

It can be provided that the securing element 188 can be brought pneumatically or hydraulically from the securing position into the release position and vice versa.

However, it can also be provided that the securing element 188 can be brought from the release position into the securing position by the spring force of a spring element and that in particular a pneumatic or hydraulic drive is used exclusively for releasing the spring force.

One in the 10th to 12 illustrated further embodiment of a locking area 126b trained contact area 125 differs in structure and function essentially from that in the 7 to 9 illustrated embodiment that the locking element 174a at his from the vehicle 102 opposite end is at least approximately dovetail-shaped.

This essentially dovetail-shaped end 190 forms - instead of the centering cone 184 - the centering element 185 .

The centering fixture 178 is in the in the 10th to 12 illustrated further embodiment complementary to the dovetail-shaped end 190 educated.

In particular, the centering room 172 through centering stops 192 in a direction perpendicular to the main direction of travel 114 limited. The centering stops 192 preferably point towards a center of the centering space 172 widening slopes. The centering stops 192 preferably prevent the locking element from slipping out 174 after it has the centering stops 192 engages behind.

The one from the centering room 172 The opening formed is in particular by means of the centering stops 192 limited and / or reduced.

10th shows the locking element 174a in an unlocked position. 11 shows the locking element 174a and the receiving element 170 during locking in a transition between the unlocked position and the locked position. The locked position is in 12 shown.

Incidentally, that is correct in the 10th to 12 illustrated further embodiment of a locking area 126b trained contact area 125 with that in the 7 to 9 illustrated embodiment in terms of structure and function, so that reference is made to the description thereof.

In one in 13 and 14 illustrated further embodiment of a contact area 125 is the contact area 125 as a lifting and locking area 126c educated.

The one as a lifting and locking area 126c trained contact area 125 differs in structure and function essentially from those in the 7 to 12 shown as a locking area 126b trained contact areas 125 that a locking element 174b by means of a drive element 130 about a pivot axis 200 is pivotally mounted.

The locking element 174b in particular takes on both a locking function of the vehicle 102 and transport element 104 as well as a lifting and / or lowering movement of the transport element 104 .

The pivot axis 200 is preferably along the main direction of travel 114 of the vehicle 102 arranged. In the lifting and locking area 126c is preferably a combination of locking the vehicle 102 and the transport element 104 and raising and / or lowering the transport element 104 educated.

In 13 is the locking element 174b shown in a lowered and unlocked position. In 14 is the locking element 174b shown in a raised and locked position.

In 14 are the vehicle 102 and the transport element 104 especially in a raised and locked state.

The locking element 174b preferably serves to transmit power to the transport element 104 .

The locking element 174b preferably has a base body 186 whose longitudinal extent is four to six times greater than in the other spatial directions.

For example, the main body 186 at least approximately conical, truncated pyramid, cylindrical or cuboid.

Alternatively, the base body 186 comprise or be formed from an I-beam.

To the main body 186 in particular, an angled section closes 202 to which one in the direction of gravity 138 overhead wall 204 of the receiving element 170 is inclined.

The angled section 202 and the main body 186 preferably together form essentially an L shape in cross section. The cross section is parallel to the vertical longitudinal median plane 110 of the vehicle 102 taken.

The receiving element 170 preferably includes one in the centering space 172 leading edge 206 which in the present case is an undercut 208 is trained.

The locking element 174b points to an edge region of the angled section 202 preferably a roller element 210 on, in which two coaxially arranged rings are rotatably supported about spherical rolling elements.

By pivoting the locking element 174b is the role element 210 in contact with the ceiling wall 204 of the receiving element 170 bringable. In the event of further pivoting in the same direction, the transport element is 104 can be raised and in particular rolls the roller element 210 in a position where there is the undercut 208 engages behind. This corresponds in particular to the locked position of the locking element 174b .

The undercut preferably forms 108 the centering fixture 178 and the roller element 210 forms in particular the centering element 185 .

In the in 13 and 14 illustrated embodiment of a contact area 125 are the vehicle 102 and the transport element 104 preferably always in a raised state when they are brought into the locked state.

The transport element 104 is in particular at least slightly raised before the locking element 174b can be brought into a locked position.

A coupling of the transport element 104 preferably works according to the following procedure.

Preferably a vehicle 102 and a transport element 104 provided.

The vehicle 102 is particularly positioned so that its legs 112 a basic body 106 of the transport element 104 grasp along a lateral surface.

In one or more, in particular four or more, contact areas 125 is preferably a lifting element 134 brought into an extended position in which the lifting element or elements 134 the transport element 104 reach under.

For this, the lifting elements 134 preferably in an unfolded position, in particular parallel to the horizontal longitudinal center plane 136 of the vehicle 102 , is extended and the vehicle is then reversed (against the main direction of travel 114 ) moves until the lifting elements 134 in the direction of gravity 138 below the transport element 104 are arranged or the lifting elements 134 laterally in the side walls of the transport element 104 engage arranged rails or sliding elements.

The lifting elements 134 are preferably provided with a sliding plastic, in particular coated. This can center the transport element 104 facilitate.

By means of one or more drive elements 130 becomes the transport element 104 preferably raised and added.

Before, after or during the transport element 104 and the vehicle 102 preferably locked. In particular, a centering element is used for this 185 a locking element 174a , 174b in a centering fixture 178 a receiving element 170 of the transport element 104 introduced, in particular by means of a drive element 130 .

After transportation, the transportation element 104 especially lowered again and vehicle 102 and transport element 104 are unlocked.

By means of the vehicle system 100 autonomous passenger and / or transport goods transportation is preferably possible.

Reference symbol list

100

Vehicle system

102

vehicle

104

Transport element

106

Basic body

108

Base element

110

Longitudinal median plane

112

leg

114

Main direction of travel

116

Base section

118

Recording room

120

wheel

122

Contact device

124

Direction of movement

125

Contact area

126a

Stroke range

126b

Locking area

126c

Lifting and locking area

128

inside

130

Drive element

132

Guide device

134

Lifting element

136

Longitudinal median plane

138

Direction of gravity

140

Folding joint

142

engine

144

Electric motor

146

spindle

148

transmission

150

Bar element

152

Guide element

154

Power distribution element

156

joint

160

Fixing element

162

Rail element

164

role

170

Receiving element

172

Centering room

174a

Locking element

174b

Locking element

176

Bottom wall

178

Centering

180

Recess

182

bottom

184

Centering cone

185

Centering element

186

Basic body

188

Securing element

190

dovetail-shaped end

192

Centering stop

200

Swivel axis

202

angled section

204

Ceiling wall

206

head Start

208

Undercut

210

Role element

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is only included for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• DE 2008023645 A1 [0004]
• DE 202010016249 U1 [0004]
• DE 102013113729 A1 [0004]

Claims (15)

Vehicle (102), in particular for transporting a transport element (104), the vehicle (102) comprising a base section (116) and two legs (112), the base section (116) essentially transverse to a main direction of travel (114) of the vehicle (102) is arranged, the two legs (112) extending away from the base section (116), the vehicle (102) being part of a contact device (122) for displacing a transport element (104) relative to the vehicle (102) and / or for establishing and / or locking a connection between the transport element (104) and the vehicle (102), the transport element (104) being receivable between the legs (112) and / or receivable by means of the legs (112), wherein the contact device (122) can be operated and / or is operated automatically and wherein the contact device (122) comprises at least one drive element (130). Vehicle (102) after Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact device (122) comprises a plurality of contact areas (125) and that at least one contact area (125) of the one or more contact areas (125) comprises a locking element (174a, 174b) which is connected to a receiving element (170) of the transport element (104) can be brought into engagement in order to fix the transport element (104) to the vehicle (102). Vehicle (102) after Claim 2 , characterized in that the locking element (174a, 174b) can be brought into the locked position by means of a drive element (130) of the contact area (125), the locking element (174a, 174b), in particular by pivoting about a pivot axis (200), which is preferably arranged along the main direction of travel (114), and / or can be brought into the locked position by a linear movement of the locking element (174a) perpendicularly and / or parallel to the main direction of travel (114). Vehicle (102) after Claim 2 or 3rd characterized in that the locking element (174a, 174b) comprises a centering element (185), wherein in a locked position of the locking element (174a, 174b) the centering element (185) is positively connected to a centering receptacle (178) of the receiving element (170) . Vehicle (102) according to one of the Claims 1 to 4th , characterized in that at least one contact area (125) of the contact device (122) comprises a receiving element (170) and a locking element (174b), the receiving element (170) being arranged on the transport element (104), the locking element (174b) is arranged on the vehicle (102), the locking element (174b) being able to be brought into a raised and locked position by means of a drive element (130) and wherein the locking element (174b) in the raised and locked position has a projection (206) in the receiving element (170) reaches behind. Vehicle (102) after Claim 5 , characterized in that the locking element (174b) is pivotally mounted by means of a drive element (130) of the contact area (125) about a pivot axis (200) which is arranged along the main direction of travel (114) of the vehicle (102), and that the locking element (174b) can be brought into a raised and locked position by pivoting. Vehicle (102) according to one of the Claims 1 to 6 , characterized in that the vehicle (102) and the transport element (104) are connected to one another in a locked state by means of the contact device (122) in a force-transmitting manner. Vehicle (102) according to one of the Claims 1 to 7 , characterized in that at least one contact area (125) of the contact device (122) comprises a lifting element (134), the lifting element (134), preferably by means of a drive element (130) of the contact area (125) or by spring loading, in a folded position can be brought and / or brought into an unfolded position and the transport element (104) can be gripped by the lifting element (134) in a folded-out position of the lifting element (134) and relative to the lifting element (134) by means of the drive element (130) the legs (112) of the vehicle (102) can be raised and / or lowered. Vehicle (102) according to one of the Claims 1 to 8th , characterized in that a drive element (130) of a contact area (125) of the contact device (122) comprises a spindle (146) and a motor (142) for driving the spindle (146), in particular an electric motor (144) of the drive element (130), the transport element (104) can be raised and / or lowered. Vehicle (102) according to one of the Claims 1 to 9 , characterized in that the contact device (122) comprises four contact areas (125), two of the four contact areas (125) being arranged one behind the other along the main direction of travel (114) of the vehicle (102) and / or two of the four contact areas ( 125) are arranged mirror-symmetrically with respect to a vertical longitudinal center plane (110) of the vehicle (102). Vehicle (102) according to one of the Claims 1 to 10th , characterized in that the Vehicle (102) is driverless, self-driving and / or autonomously movable. A vehicle system (100) comprising a vehicle (102) according to one of the Claims 1 to 11 and a transport element (104). Method for operating a vehicle system (100), comprising a vehicle (102), in particular a vehicle (102) according to one of the Claims 1 to 11 , and a transport element (104), the method comprising: - providing a vehicle (102); - providing a transport element (104); - Positioning the vehicle (102) relative to the transport element (104) so that two legs (112) of the vehicle (102) grip around and / or receive the transport element (104); - lifting the transport element (104); and - locking the legs (112) of the vehicle (102) with the transport element (104). Procedure according to Claim 13 , characterized in that the locking is carried out by means of one or more contact areas (125) of a contact device (122), wherein at least one locking element (174a, 174b) of a contact area (125) by means of a drive element (130) of the contact area (125) in one is brought into the locked position, in which a centering element (185) of the locking element (174a, 174b) is fixed by a centering receptacle (178) of a receiving element (170) with respect to a movement in a horizontal longitudinal center plane (136) of the vehicle (102). Procedure according to Claim 13 or 14 , characterized in that the lifting is carried out by means of one or more contact areas (125) of a contact device (122), at least one lifting element (134) of a contact area (125) of the one or more contact areas (125) being brought into an unfolded position, wherein the lifting element (134) engages under the transport element (104) and wherein the transport element (104) together with the lifting element (134) is raised relative to the legs (112) of the vehicle (102) by means of a drive element (130) of the contact area (125) becomes.

Images