DE202021106304U1 - leveling device - Google Patents

Abstract

Leveling device for a road vehicle (2) with a chassis (3), the leveling device (1) having a leveling sensor system (12) and a leveling controller (8), the leveling sensor system (12) for detecting angular positions of the chassis (2) with respect to a longitudinal axis (x) and a transverse axis (y) of the chassis (3) and wherein the leveling control (8) is designed to control a jack assembly (7) of a plurality of jacks (24-27) on the chassis (3) to during the leveling process to achieve a desired desired angular position (19) of the chassis (3), characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that during the leveling process, at least some of the jacks (24-27) preferably perform a leveling stroke (35) at the same time for reaching the desired target angular position (19) can be performed and
- the leveling controller (8) controls and, if necessary, regulates the leveling process according to a lifting distance (h) and preferably also according to a lifting speed of the leveling stroke (35) of the at least some jacks (24-27),
- wherein the leveling control (8) specifies an individual lifting path (h) and preferably also an individual lifting speed for the at least some jacks (24-27) for their leveling lift (35) and for reaching the desired target angular position (19),
- wherein the leveling device (1) comprises a detection device (13) connected to the leveling control (8), which detects the respective lifting distances (h) and preferably also the respective lifting speeds of the at least some lifting supports (24-27) during the leveling stroke (35) detected by measurement and reported to the leveling control (8).

Description

The invention relates to a leveling device with the features in the preamble of the main claim.

Such a leveling device for a road vehicle with a chassis is from EP 3 390 174 B1 known. It comprises a leveling sensor system with two angle sensors arranged separately and at a distance from one another on the chassis and a leveling control as well as a jack arrangement with four jacks arranged distributed on the chassis. The leveling control controls the jacks during the leveling process in order to bring the chassis into a desired desired angular position, for example a horizontal position. The leveling process is controlled according to the angle signals from the protractors, with the leveling control interrogating the angle signals and stopping the leveling stroke of the jacks as soon as both protractors report the desired angle dimensions.

The DE 10 2017 113 423 A1 deals with a leveling system that uses at least two independently working and spaced digital leveling sensors. In this way, overloading of the vehicle chassis in the form of torsion can be avoided. At the same time, the lifted state of the vehicle is set overall in such a way that its wheels continue to have ground contact.

The DE 10 2007 030 107 A1 teaches a system for the electro-hydraulic alignment of truck chassis by means of jacks with hydraulic cylinders, which are equipped with directional control valves and with safety valves. The safety valves are designed as electric seat valves. For certain loading processes with a synchronized lift, the actual jack lift and the lift reserve can be used by measuring the distance until the jack reaches the stop position.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a better leveling technique.

The invention solves this problem with the features in the independent claims.

The claimed leveling technique, i.e. the leveling device, the leveling method and the road vehicle equipped with the leveling device have various advantages.

The road vehicle is e.g. Alternatively, the road vehicle can be a trailer.

The leveling control of the claimed leveling device is provided and designed to allow at least some of the jacks to carry out a leveling stroke during the leveling process in order to reach the desired target angular position. The leveling strokes of the at least some jacks can be carried out simultaneously. They can take place along a respective, preferably straight lifting axis. The leveling strokes and the lifting axes are preferably aligned upright, in particular vertically. The leveling process can be performed automatically by the leveling controller on command, e.g. from an operator.

The leveling control controls the leveling process according to a lifting distance and preferably also according to a lifting speed of the leveling stroke of the at least some jacks. The leveling controller can also regulate the leveling process. Alternatively or additionally, the leveling process can also be controlled according to a time measure that is calculated from the lifting distance and a lifting speed.

The leveling control specifies an individual lifting path and preferably also an individual lifting speed for the at least some jacks for their leveling lift and for reaching the desired target angular position. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to specify a time measure.

The actual angular position can be determined by the underground of the parked road vehicle. The actual angular position can also result in an initial position explained below when the jacks are extended with ground contact. The target angular position can be selectable. The target angular position can be calibrated and taught during manual levelling.

The target angular position can be a horizontal position, for example. The target angular position can also have a deliberate inclination and deviation from the horizontal position. This is advantageous, for example, for sleeping at night, for emptying the tank or for other purposes. Such a tilt may exist, for example, only about one axis, i.e. the longitudinal axis or the transverse axis of the chassis.

The leveling device includes a detection device connected to the leveling control, which detects the respectively covered lifting distances and preferably also the respective lifting speeds of the at least some jacks during the leveling stroke and reports it to the leveling control. The detection device can if necessary also record the time. The leveling control is preferably designed in such a way that it stops the at least some jacks and their leveling stroke when the end of their respective predefined individual stroke is reached. The leveling control can also cause the stop when a predetermined time is reached.

The claimed leveling device and the associated leveling method have the advantage that the leveling process can be controlled via the stroke. The stroke can be detected in any suitable way. This can be done by direct or indirect detection of the stroke. When leveling and during the execution of the leveling strokes, the individual lifting speed of the at least some jacks can also be regulated. The path control mentioned during the leveling process is more precise and reliable than the previously known control via the angle of the two goniometers.

In the leveling device claimed, the leveling sensor system can also measure the angle of the chassis with respect to a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis of the chassis. This can be related to a main level of the chassis. The main plane is aligned parallel to the surface of the chassis and can also coincide with it. The leveling sensor system is preferably arranged in the main plane. The main plane is intersected by the lifting axes of all jacks involved in leveling.

The angle can be detected by means of a combination sensor. This can be compact and record both angles at the same place. The angle sensors, e.g. aligned at 90° to one another, can be arranged close together in a common housing. Alternatively, the leveling sensor system can also have separate protractors arranged at a mutual distance on the chassis.

A coordinate system can be set up on the leveling sensor system, which is related to the main plane of the chassis. The leveling sensor system is arranged at a suitable point on the chassis. The leveling sensor system can be located at a central location on the chassis, in particular on said main level. This so-called chassis position of the leveling sensor system is preferably situated between the jacks which can also be arranged or are arranged on the chassis, preferably likewise at a central intermediate point.

The positions of the jacks on the chassis are known. A reference point on the main level can be assigned to each jack. This can reference the respective leveling stroke of a jack. The respective reference point can be defined, for example, by the intersection of the main plane with the lifting axis of the lifting support in question. The position of the reference points in the main plane and their mutual distances and, if applicable, their respective distance from the chassis position of the leveling sensor system are known.

In addition to the leveling control, the leveling sensor system and the detection device, the leveling device can include a control connection of the leveling control to a lifting support arrangement.

The leveling device can be retrofitted to existing jack arrangements and also to road vehicles with a jack arrangement installed there. It can also be converted into a modification or replacement of another existing leveling device. On the other hand, the leveling device can also include a lifting support arrangement, e.g. for the original equipment of a road vehicle.

The leveling device can also have a detection device for individual or common ground contact of the jacks. This applies on the one hand to the aforementioned retrofittable leveling device, as well as to the more extensive leveling device, which also includes a lifting support arrangement.

The specifications of the leveling control for a respective individual lifting distance and preferably also for a respective individual lifting speed can be obtained in different ways. In a preferred embodiment, the leveling control is designed in such a way that it compares an actual angular position of the chassis, in particular its said main plane, detected by means of the leveling sensors, with a desired target angular position of the chassis, in particular said main plane, and thereby detects any angular deviation of the or the angle around the longitudinal axis and/or the transverse axis of the chassis is determined. This can refer to the longitudinal axis and/or transverse axis located in the main plane.

From the known positions of the leveling sensor system and the reference points on the main plane and their spatial, geometric relative relationships, as well as from a determined angular deviation by one or both said angles, the leveling control can calculate a respective individual vertical distance, which for each reference point on the main plane between its positions in the Actual angular position and in the target angular position.

This point-related distance determines the respective individual lifting path that a jack has to execute from its current position so that the jacks involved in the leveling process bring the chassis and its main plane into the desired angular position together.

From the respective distances between the reference points, the leveling control can determine a specification for the respective individual lifting path of the jacks. The reference points are moved during the leveling stroke. During the leveling stroke, an upward lifting movement preferably takes place.

The leveling control can also determine, in particular calculate, the respective individual lifting speed of the at least some jacks and derive a specification from this. A calculation can, for example, be carried out under the proviso that all the jacks involved in the leveling process reach the end of their respective individual stroke at the same time and the chassis then assumes the target angular position. Said lifting speed can also be determined in other ways. The specification of an individual lifting speed can also be omitted.

The jacks can have different individual lifting distances and possibly different individual lifting speeds depending on the actual angular position and inclination(s) of the main level of the chassis.

Said leveling strokes are preferably carried out jointly and simultaneously by the at least some and participating jacks at the instigation of the leveling control. It is advantageous here if all jacks involved reach the end of their respective predetermined individual lifting path at the same time.

Depending on the length of the lifting path, different lifting speeds of the jacks involved may be required for this.

This simultaneous movement of the at least some jacks, each with an adapted lifting speed, has the advantage that distortions on the chassis can be prevented when leveling. This is particularly favorable in the case of vehicle chassis with a large length and a correspondingly large longitudinal distance between the jacks.

In another embodiment, the at least some jacks can carry out their leveling strokes at a different time ratio or independently of one another. For example, two or more jacks can carry out their leveling strokes one after the other or with a partial overlap. In a further modification, coordination of the respective lifting speeds of the at least some jacks can be omitted. The at least some lifting supports do not necessarily have to reach the end of their respective individual lifting path at the same time.

All or just some of the jacks can be involved in the leveling process. In an advantageous embodiment, the leveling control is designed in such a way that, when detecting the actual angular position of the main plane, it determines which individual reference point of a lifting support on the main plane has the highest position. This relates to the case that there is an individual high point in the actual angular position. In this case, there are angular deviations from the target angular position by both angles around the longitudinal axis and around the transverse axis of the chassis.

It can also happen that several jack reference points have the highest position together on one side of the chassis. In this case, the leveling control can determine which several reference points of jacks on which chassis side have the highest position. In this case, the said highest reference points are arranged at the same height, with the relevant side of the chassis being oriented horizontally. In relation to any desired desired horizontal angular position, there is an angular deviation by only one of the angles around the longitudinal axis or the transverse axis of the chassis.

In the aforementioned cases, the leveling control can be designed in such a way that it selects the jacks located at the respective lower reference points for the execution of a leveling stroke for leveling and controls them accordingly.

These jacks selected and to be actuated or actuated are then said at least some jacks. The one or more jacks at the or the highest reference points can remain at rest and be controlled accordingly by the leveling control. When leveling, the chassis is then rotated about this resting jack(s).

In a modification, it is possible to have all the jacks arranged on the chassis and basically provided for leveling carry out a leveling stroke. In such a case, a leveling stroke of the one or more jacks with the highest reference point or points can include a lifting movement or also a lowering movement. In an additional modification, it is possible to select the one or more jacks with the or the highest reference points for a leveling stroke and to have them perform a lowering movement.

For leveling it is advantageous to have a stable starting position for the chassis. The leveling control can be designed in such a way that at the beginning of the leveling process it allows all or some of the jacks involved in the leveling to be extended until they make contact with the ground and a stable starting position of the chassis is reached. The extension movement of the respective jacks can be terminated or continued for a while when ground contact is detected. A continuation is advantageous for achieving a particularly stable starting position.

In the case of a motorized road vehicle, for example, all jacks involved in leveling can be extended to ground contact or beyond in order to achieve a stable initial position. This can be four jacks, for example. A road vehicle designed as a trailer with a preferably rigid drawbar and with a support element there, e.g. is supported.

When taking the said initial position, the jacks are stopped with their extension movement. In this starting position, the leveling control can then detect the actual angular position of the chassis, in particular its main level. It can also carry out the aforementioned comparison of angular positions and calculate the specifications for the respective individual lifting distances and preferably also for the respective individual lifting speeds of the at least some jacks.

The structural design of the leveling device and its components can be chosen differently. The leveling control can be designed as a control unit or as a software component that can be implemented for another control. Here, for example, a leveling function can be retrofitted or converted to an existing lifting support arrangement and its control with said implementable software component.

The leveling control can include an evaluation module for determining the angle deviations. The leveling control can also include a control module for controlling the jack assembly. These modules can also be designed in terms of hardware and/or software. With this, for example, an existing leveling control can be retrofitted.

The leveling device, in particular its leveling control, can have a communication module. This can be designed and used for preferably wireless communication with an operating device. A control device can be designed, for example, as a dedicated control device with corresponding predefined control elements, e.g. buttons, a display or the like. On the other hand, an operating device can be designed as a universal smartphone, notebook or other preferably portable computer, with the operating function being achieved via an operating app that can be suitably loaded onto the relevant device.

The leveling device can have a detection device for said respective ground contact of the jacks. Such a detection device can be designed in different ways. For example, it may have one or more pressure sensors. This can be, for example, contact sensors on a base plate of a lifting support. Pressure sensors or strain gauge sensors can also be arranged on an extendable support element of a lifting support. In the case of a fluidic, in particular hydraulic, lifting support, a pressure sensor can be arranged in a fluid line, e.g. a fluid circuit, in particular a hydraulic circuit. A detection device can be present jointly for all jacks involved in the leveling or for a group of jacks or for each individual jack.

The detection device can also be configured differently. It can include one or more measuring devices that can be assigned or are assigned to the jacks. A measuring device can, for example, be in the form of an odometer. Such an odometer can detect and measure translational and/or rotational movements.

The extension movement of a jack can be detected directly or indirectly. A distance measuring device can be arranged, for example, on an extendable support element of the lifting support or on a drive device. It can also be designed as a distance meter, which is arranged in a known position relative to a lifting support and its reference point on the chassis or the main plane. Such a distance meter can, for example, record the distance and the change in distance between its attachment point on the chassis and the ground. If necessary, the detected paths are converted into an extension path of the lifting support via the known assignment to a lifting support.

In another configuration, a measuring means of the detection device can be embodied as a flow meter for a fluid of a fluidic, in particular hydraulic, lifting support. Here, the volume flow in terms of quantity and possibly also in terms of time or speed recorded. In conjunction with a known cylinder volume and a piston area of the fluidic lifting support, the extension path of the piston or the piston rod can be recorded and calculated.

The lifting support assembly can also be designed differently. It can include fluidic, in particular hydraulic, lifting supports and/or mechanical, in particular electromotive, lifting supports. In the case of a fluidic lifting support, an upright piston rod, for example, can itself serve as a support. In the case of a mechanical lifting support, a separate support means can be designed as a swivel base, scissor base, threaded spindle, toothed rack or the like and be driven by a motor, in particular an electric motor, or by a fluidic, in particular hydraulic, cylinder.

Such jacks can be designed for a lifting operation with a stationary road vehicle. They are retracted again for driving the road vehicle. In addition to the jacks involved in a leveling process, the jack arrangement can include further jacks which serve other purposes, e.g. stabilization purposes, and which may be actuated after leveling has taken place.

In another variant, jacks can be provided for stationary and driving operation of the road vehicle. Such a lifting support can, for example, be designed as a level control which, for example, acts on a wheel rocker arm and rotates it, with the chassis then being raised or lowered accordingly. Such a level control can be actuated, for example, by a fluidic, in particular hydraulic, cylinder or by an air spring element, e.g.

In the case of a fluidic, in particular hydraulic, lifting support, the extension movement can be controlled in different ways. In an advantageous embodiment, a fluid valve with an adjustable flow rate, in particular a proportional valve, which can be or is connected to the leveling control, can be assigned or is assigned to such a lifting support. In the case of a mechanical lifting support, a fluidic cylinder can be controlled in the manner mentioned.

Such a fluid valve with an adjustable flow rate is advantageous in order to be able to set a predetermined individual lifting speed of the lifting support and, if necessary, also to be able to regulate it. Speed adjustment is possible via the size of the adjustable flow. Such a fluid valve can be present on an existing fluidic lifting support or it can be retrofitted. The control connection to the leveling control can be part of the claimed leveling device.

The number of jacks can be equal to or greater than two or three. Preferably four jacks are provided. The jacks can be or are arranged in a planar distribution or distributed in a polygon on the chassis. For example, in an arrangement of four jacks, these are arranged on either side of the longitudinal sides of the chassis, being spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal and transverse directions. The four jacks can be distributed in a rectangle or square.

Such a jack arrangement is advantageous, for example, for a motorized road vehicle. In the case of a road vehicle designed as a trailer, for example, two jacks can be arranged in the axle area and interact with a support element on the drawbar, for example on the front, as a fixed support point, for example. Alternatively, this support element can also be designed and used as a movable lifting support that can be controlled during leveling, e.g. as a third lifting support. In another variant, it is possible to equip a road vehicle with six or more controllable jacks that are involved in the leveling.

The jacks are preferably stationarily mountable or mounted on the chassis. The jacks can be arranged rigidly or can be pivoted away into a rest position at their stationary attachment point on the chassis. For this purpose, the jacks can have appropriate mounting brackets. The respective attachment point can be arranged directly and stationary on the chassis, in particular on its side members. The attachment points and said reference points have a predeterminable or predetermined and defined position and geometric relative relationship to the chassis position of the leveling sensor system.

The stationary arrangement of the mounting points and the jacks has advantages for leveling and determining the specified specifications for the lifting distance and, if necessary, the lifting speed. Furthermore, there are advantages over crane supports or other lifting and supporting means that are mounted on booms and can be extended relative to the chassis.

The lifting support arrangement, which is separate or included in the leveling device, can have a drive device for the lifting supports. The drive device can be a common device that acts on a subset of jacks or all jacks. In another variant, the drive device can act on only a single lifting support. The jacks on Order can thus include one or more drive devices. In the preferred embodiment of hydraulic jacks, the drive device can comprise a tank and a pump. In the case of a mechanical lifting support, the drive device can, for example, comprise a preferably electric motor.

The leveling method can have the same advantages mentioned above. In an independently inventive embodiment, the leveling method includes multiple steps. In a first step, the leveling process is started, and in a subsequent second step, all jacks involved in leveling are extended until they come into contact with the ground and a stable starting position of the chassis is reached. In a third subsequent step, the actual angular position of the chassis, in particular its main plane, is recorded in the stable starting position and compared with a desired target angular position. A possible angular deviation is determined and specifications are calculated from this for a respective individual lifting distance and preferably also for a respective individual lifting speed of at least some jacks for their leveling stroke to preferably simultaneously achieve the desired target angular position.

In a fourth subsequent step, the at least some jacks are extended with the respective individual specifications for their lifting distance and preferably also for their lifting speed. In a fifth step, the respective individual lifting distances and preferably also the respective individual lifting speeds of the at least some jacks can be detected and monitored by measurement. In a sixth step, the at least some jacks and their leveling stroke are stopped when they reach the end of their individually specified stroke paths and the leveling process is terminated.

During the leveling stroke of the at least some jacks, the respective individual lifting speed can be regulated in such a way that the at least some jacks reach the end of their individually specified lifting path at the same time. This regulation can be carried out in the aforementioned fifth step with the metrological detection and monitoring of the respective individual lifting speeds during the leveling lift.

Further advantageous refinements of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

• 1: ein motorisiertes Straßenfahrzeug mit einer Nivelliereinrichtung und einer Hubstützenanordnung mit fluidischen Hubstützen in einer Seitenansicht und in einer nivellierten Soll-Winkellage und Darstellung der vorherigen geneigten Ist-Winkellage,
• 2: eine perspektivische und abstrahierte Ansicht eines Straßenfahrzeugs mit einer Nivelliereinrichtung und einer Hubstützenanordnung mit vier Hubstützen in einer nivellierten Soll-Winkellage,
• 3: eine abstrahierte Darstellung eines abgestellten Straßenfahrzeugs in einer Ist-Winkellage,
• 4: die Anordnung von 3 in einer stabilen Ausgangslage nach Ausfahren der Hubstützen bis zu einem Bodenkontakt,
• 5: eine abstrahierte Darstellung des Straßenfahrzeugs in der Ausgangslage von 4 und in der gestrichelt dargestellten nivellierten Soll-Winkellage mit Darstellung von Nivellierhüben und Hubwegen von Hubstützen,
• 6: die Hubstützenanordnung und die Nivelliereinrichtung mit einer Detektionseinrichtung in einer nivellierten Darstellung,
• 7 und 8: fluidische Schaltpläne einer Nivelliereinrichtung und einer Hubstützenanordnung mit Darstellung unterschiedlicher Detektionseinrichtungen für den Hubweg,
• 9: eine Variante einer Hubstütze in einer Ausbildung als Niveauregulierung,
• 10: eine hydraulische Hubstützenanordnung mit einem dezentralen Hydraulikaggregat,
• 11: einen Ablaufplan eines Nivellierverfahrens in mehreren Schritten,
• 12 und 13: eine Variante eines als Anhänger ausgebildeten Straßenfahrzeugs mit einer Nivelliereinrichtung in Seitenansicht und Draufsicht und
• 14 und 15: eine Variante einer mechanischen Hubstütze in Seitenansicht und Draufsicht.

The invention is shown by way of example and schematically in the drawings. Show in detail:

• 1 : a motorized road vehicle with a leveling device and a jack assembly with fluidic jacks in a side view and in a leveled target angular position and representation of the previously inclined actual angular position,
• 2 : a perspective and abstracted view of a road vehicle with a leveling device and a jack assembly with four jacks in a leveled target angular position,
• 3 : an abstract representation of a parked road vehicle in an actual angular position,
• 4 : the arrangement of 3 in a stable starting position after extending the jacks up to ground contact,
• 5 : an abstract representation of the road vehicle in the starting position of 4 and in the leveled target angular position shown in dashed lines with the representation of leveling strokes and lifting distances of jacks,
• 6 : the jack arrangement and the leveling device with a detection device in a leveled representation,
• 7 and 8th : fluidic circuit diagrams of a leveling device and a lifting support arrangement showing different detection devices for the lifting path,
• 9 : a variant of a lifting support in training as a level control,
• 10 : a hydraulic jack arrangement with a decentralized hydraulic unit,
• 11 : a flow chart of a leveling procedure in several steps,
• 12 and 13 : a variant of a road vehicle designed as a trailer with a leveling device in side view and top view and
• 14 and 15 : a variant of a mechanical lifting support in side view and top view.

The invention relates to a preferably automatic leveling device (1) and a preferably automatic leveling method for a road vehicle (2). The invention also relates to the road vehicle (2) equipped with the leveling device (1).

1 shows a road vehicle (2) in a schematic side view, which is designed, for example, as a motor vehicle. This is, for example, a mobile home or mobile home or a to Vans that can be converted or converted for residential or travel purposes. 12 shows a variant of a road vehicle (2) in a schematic side view, which is designed, for example, as a trailer.

The road vehicle (2) from 1 until 10 has a chassis (3) and two or more axle assemblies (40) with preferably pneumatic vehicle wheels (41). A structure (39), which is preferably box-shaped, is arranged on the chassis (3).

The road vehicle (2) has a driver's cab and an engine for a preferred front-wheel drive on the front in the forward direction of travel (37). The road vehicle (2) can have a front-wheel drive motorized tractor unit and a chassis (3) that may be retrofitted to it, e.g. in the form of an add-on chassis, which can have a height difference compared to a tractor unit chassis.

The front axle assembly (40) is preferably driven. The rear single or multiple axle arrangement (40) can be a non-driven, so-called trailing axle. This can have an axle body (44) extending partially or completely across the chassis (3) with one or two end rotatable rocker arms (42) and vehicle wheels (41) mounted thereon. Such an axle is also referred to as a check arm axle. The check arm axles can be spring-loaded, for example by means of a rubber spring or a torsion bar spring on the axle body and rocker arm. Furthermore, an in 9 shown level control (43) based on an air suspension with air bellows (43) and shock absorber or on a level control cylinder instead of the shock absorber.

The chassis (3) comprises two outer and parallel longitudinal beams (5) extending in the longitudinal direction of the chassis (3) and made of e.g are formed. The chassis (3) can be designed as a ladder frame and can have one or more cross members between the longitudinal members (5).

The chassis (3) has a main level (4). This is aligned parallel to the upper chassis surface and can also coincide with it. The chassis surface is formed, for example, by the tops of the side members (5).

The road vehicle (2) has a lifting support arrangement (7) that can be mounted or is mounted on the chassis (3). This includes in the illustrated embodiment of 1 until 8th four jacks (24,25,26,27), which are arranged, for example, regularly distributed in a rectangle on both sides of the chassis (3). The jacks (24-27) perform an upright lifting movement and have upright, preferably straight, lifting axes.

The jacks (24-27) are preferably mountable or mounted on the outer sides of the longitudinal beams (5) at a respective attachment point. The one or more rear axle assemblies (40) are arranged between the front and rear lifting supports (24,26) and (25,27) in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, one or more jacks can also have another fixed attachment point on the chassis (3), e.g. on the inside on a longitudinal member (5), on a cross member, on an axle body (44) or the like.

In the shown embodiments of 1 until 8th the jacks (24-27) are designed as hydraulic jacks. These include a cylinder (28) and an extendable support means in the form of a piston rod (29). At the free end of the piston rod, an in 1 indicated footplate are located.

The mounting points are fixed on the chassis (3). In the exemplary embodiments shown, the e.g. hydraulic jacks (24-27) can be rigidly mounted or mounted at the attachment points on the chassis (3) by means of suitable mounting fittings. The support means (29) are extended vertically downwards against the ground (6) for the purpose of the leveling described below when the road vehicle (2) is stationary. In another embodiment, the jacks (24-27) can be fixed in place on the chassis (3) by means of their attachment points and can be arranged or arranged such that they can be pivoted about a horizontal axis, for example.

The road vehicle (2) is equipped with a leveling device (1). This includes a leveling control (8) and a leveling sensor system (12) as well as a detection device (13) and preferably also a detection device (17). The leveling device (1) can be operated using a preferably mobile operating device (38).

The leveling sensor system (12) is mounted and fastened at a suitable point on the chassis (3) or on the body (39). The leveling sensor system (12) is preferably arranged on the main plane (4). The mounting location of the leveling sensor (12) determines the position of the main level (4).

The leveling sensor system (12) comprises two or more protractors, one of which inclines the main plane (4) by an in 2 shown transverse axis (y) or transverse direction of the chassis (3) and another angle sensor detects and measures an inclination about a longitudinal axis (x) or longitudinal direction of the chassis (3). The protractors or angle sensors are arranged in close proximity to one another at a reference point of the leveling sensor system (12). They measure essentially in the same place. The angle sensors are combined to form a combination sensor, for example, and housed in a common housing.

An associated reference point (20-23) is arranged for each lifting support (24-27) on the main plane (4). The reference points (20-23) are defined, for example, by the respective intersections of the main plane (4) and the upright lifting axes of the jacks (24-27).

The leveling sensor system (12) is arranged, for example, on the main level (4) in a defined chassis position and preferably in a central location between the four jacks (24-27) and their reference points (20-23). The geometric relative relationships of the reference points (20-23) to one another and to the chassis position of the leveling sensor system (12) are also known from these known positions. This concerns e.g. the spatial distances with a directional component in the main plane (4).

At the reference point of the angle sensors, the leveling sensor system has an erected and in 2 coordinate system shown, the horizontal axes of which coincide with the longitudinal axis (x) and the transverse axis (y) of the chassis (3) and preferably run in the main plane (4).

The leveling sensor (12) is in 1 shown schematically. It can, for example, be designed as an independent control device or can be implemented in another existing control of the lifting support arrangement (7). The leveling control (8) comprises an evaluation module (9) for evaluating the angle signals of the leveling sensor system (12) and a control module (10) for activating the jack arrangement (7).

The leveling device (1), in particular the leveling control (8), can also include a communication module (11) which, for example, enables wired or preferably wireless communication with the operating device (38).

In the embodiment shown, the operating device (38) is designed as a smartphone, tablet or other portable computer and contains an operating app for the leveling device (1) and possibly also for the jack arrangement (7). Said communication can also take place with the operating app. This can be bidirectional and contain feedback to the operating device (38). Wireless communication is possible, for example, via radio, WLAN, Bluetooth or the like.

The jack arrangement (7) has a drive device (30) for one or more jacks (24-27). The drive device (30) is shown in the embodiment of 1 designed as a central drive device and acts on all lifting supports (24-27). In another embodiment, a drive device (30) can act on a group, for example a pair, of lifting supports which are arranged, for example, on both sides on the left and right of the longitudinal sides of the chassis (3). In such an embodiment, there are then two drive devices (30) on the road vehicle (2). 10 shows a variant with a drive device (30) which acts on a single lifting support (25). This is a so-called decentralized drive device.

In the exemplary embodiments shown with hydraulic jacks (24-27), the drive device (30) comprises a fluid unit (31), in particular a hydraulic unit. This includes a tank (32) and a pump (33) as well as connecting lines and controllable valves, in particular multi-way valves. It can be controlled via the leveling control (8) or via another control.

A detection device (17) for ground contact of one or more jacks (24-27) can also be arranged on a drive device (30) or at another point of the jack arrangement (7). In the case of hydraulic jacks, the detection device (17) can be, for example, a pressure sensor in the fluid line, in particular the hydraulic line. This detects an increase in pressure, for example, when the assigned jacks (24-27) come into contact with the ground. The detection device (17) can alternatively be formed by other sensors, which are arranged, for example, on the lifting supports and are designed, for example, as pressure sensors, contact sensors or the like. The detection device (17) is connected to the leveling control (8) via cable or wireless signals.

The leveling device (1) also includes the said detection device (13), which is connected to the leveling control (8) and which, when the lifting supports (24-27) perform an upright leveling stroke (35) in the leveling process, records the stroke distance (h) covered in each case. and possibly also the respective lifting speed is detected. The detection device (13) can, for example, according to the schematic representation in 6 be assigned to a respective lifting support (24-27).

The detection device (13) comprises for said detection of the lifting distance and possibly the lifting height speed at least one measuring device (14). This is arranged, for example, on a lifting support (25). It can also be located elsewhere, for example on the chassis (3). A measuring device (14) is designed, for example, as an odometer (15). The odometer can change according to 6 and 7 located on a lifting support (24-27). An odometer (15) can also be located on the chassis (3) and in a known position relative to a lifting support (24-27) or its reference point (20-23). A distance meter (15) can be arranged, for example, on the underside of the chassis (3) and can measure a vertical distance from the base (6).

7 and 8th show exemplary hydraulic circuit diagrams for a jack arrangement (7) with hydraulic jacks (24-27). The single central drive device (30), for example, is connected to the cylinders (28) of the lifting supports (24-27) by means of lines. A fluid valve (34) is arranged in the respective inflow line and is connected to the leveling control (8) for signal and control purposes. The fluid valve (34) is designed, for example, as a controllable proportional valve, with which the flow width and the flow rate can be set and, if necessary, changed by the leveling control (8) at a known pump pressure per unit of time. Furthermore, a safety valve or holding valve (not shown) can be present in the line network and assigned to a lifting support (24-27). In the case of an arrangement of several drive devices (30) with group assignment or individual assignment of jacks (24-27), the circuit diagram and the line network are adapted accordingly.

In 6 and 7 each lifting support (24-27) is assigned an odometer (15), which records the extension path of the moving support means (29), in particular the piston rod, and reports it to the leveling control (8).

In the circuit diagram variant of 8th the measuring means (14) is designed as a flow meter (16) and is arranged in the inflow line to the cylinder (28). The inflow line is connected to the working chamber of the cylinder (28) provided for extending the piston rod (29). The flow meter measures the flow rate of hydraulic fluid or another fluid, whereby the stroke distance of the piston rod (29) associated with the flow rate can be determined based on the known cylinder volume and the piston area. This determination or evaluation of the sensor signals can take place in the flow meter (16) or in the evaluation module (9).

7 and 8th also show the control connection (36) between the leveling control (8), in particular the control module (10), and the drive device (30). If there are a number of drive devices (30), there are a number of control connections (36).

The road vehicle (2) and its chassis (3) are leveled when the road vehicle (2) is stationary. The main plane (4) of the chassis (3) is brought into a desired desired angular position (19) or a so-called leveling position. This e.g. in 1 , 2 and 5 The target angular position (19) shown can be a horizontal position, for example. Alternatively, the target angular position can have an inclination, preferably about the longitudinal axis (x) or the transverse axis (y). Depending on the ground (6), the parked road vehicle (2) can assume a different angular position. In 1 For example, an inclined position of the base (6) and a correspondingly inclined actual angular position (18) of the main plane (4) of the chassis (3) are shown in dot-dash lines.

The leveling control (8) and the leveling method can work automatically. The leveling control (8) controls the leveling process according to a stroke distance (h) and preferably also according to a stroke speed of the leveling stroke (35). The leveling stroke (35) is performed by at least a few jacks (24-27). The leveling strokes of the at least some jacks (24-27) can differ from one another. An individual lifting path (h) and preferably also an individual lifting speed can be specified for the leveling strokes of the jacks (24-27).

The respective lifting paths (h) and preferably also the respective lifting speeds of the at least some jacks (24-27) during the leveling stroke (35) are measured by the detection device (13) and reported to the leveling control (8). In order to completely or at least largely avoid any distortions of the chassis (3) when leveling, the leveling control (8) preferably allows at least some of the jacks (24-27) to use the leveling stroke (35) at the same time to achieve the desired target angular position (19). carry out.

At the start of the leveling process, for example, the leveling control (8) allows all the jacks (24-27) involved in the leveling to be extended until they come into contact with the ground. The ground contact is determined by the detection device (17). It can be recorded for all jacks together or individually for each jack (24-27). When it comes into contact with the ground, the leveling control (8) stops the extension movement of the jacks (24-27). In another embodiment, it can allow the jacks (24-27) to be extended a small, predetermined distance beyond the detected ground contact and then stop. The chassis (3) is then eg lifted out of the suspension of the axle assemblies (40) and supported on the involved and eg four jacks (24-27) in a starting position for the levelling. The initial position defines the actual angular position.

The specification mentioned for the respective individual lifting distances (h) and possibly also the respective individual lifting speeds is in the exemplary embodiments shown by the leveling control (8), in particular its evaluation module (9), in conjunction with the angle signals of the leveling sensors (12) and the known Determined the positions of the leveling sensors (12) and the reference points (20-23) on the main plane (4). 3 and 4 clarify this process.

3 shows an inclined position of the parked road vehicle (2) and its superstructure (39), which is predetermined by the ground, with the lifting supports (24-27) retracted. The orthogonal spatial axes are shown in broken lines. 3 also shows the sensor coordinate system set up on the leveling sensor system (12) and oriented on the inclined main plane (4).

4 shows the above-mentioned starting position with lifting supports (24-27) extended to ground contact or possibly a little further and the actual angular position (18) assumed. This deviates from the desired target angular position. The main plane (4) is inclined, for example, at an angle (α) about the transverse axis (y) and at an angle (β) about the longitudinal axis (x) of the chassis (3) relative to a horizontal plane in space.

The angles (α,β) are recorded by the leveling sensors (12). These are the difference angles between the longitudinal and transverse axes (x,y) in the sensor coordinate system, which is inclined according to the main plane (4), and the horizontal spatial axes in the x and y directions in the orthogonal spatial axis system. The leveling sensor system (12) has said reference point. Its position in the main plane (4) or in relation to the main plane (4) is known. Furthermore, the respective distances between the reference points (20-23) and to the reference point of the leveling sensor system (12) are known.

From the angles (α,β) and the known distances, for each reference point (20-23) of the lifting support (24-27), an individual vertical distance drawn in dashed lines between the point position in the inclined actual angular position (18) and the point position in of the horizontal position in space can be calculated. In the embodiment shown, the horizontal position is the desired target angular position (19) and so-called leveling position.

The respective distance defines for the respective reference point (20-23) a separate and individual lifting path (h) by which the lifting support in question (24-27) must extend in order to move the chassis (3) with its main plane (4) out of the actual position -To bring the angular position (18) into the desired target angular position (19). Depending on the inclination and inclination of the actual angular position (18) about the longitudinal axis (x) and/or the transverse axis (y) of the chassis (3), there are different individual lifting paths (h) for the various jacks (24-27). The individual stroke distances (h) are used and processed as specifications in the leveling device (1), in particular the leveling control (8).

In another embodiment that is not shown, the target angular position (19) can deviate from a horizontal orientation in space and have a desired inclination to the horizontal position. This results in additional and known deviations in the angles (α,β) compared to the measured angular dimensions. This is taken into account when calculating the said individual distances between the reference points (20-23) between the actual and desired angular positions (18, 19) and the individual stroke distances (h) derived therefrom.

If the jacks (24-27) involved in the leveling process execute a leveling stroke (35) at the same time and are supposed to reach the end of their respective leveling stroke (h), different lifting speeds result for the jacks (24-27). Those jacks with a longer stroke (h) must extend faster than jacks with a shorter stroke (h). The individual lifting speeds are preferably also used and processed as specifications in the leveling device (1), in particular the leveling control (8).

The evaluation of the reported angular dimensions of the angles (α, β) and the calculation of the individual lifting distances (h) and, if necessary, also the respective individual lifting speeds are carried out, for example, in the leveling control (8), in particular in its evaluation module (9).

The jacks (24-27) are controlled by the leveling control (8) for leveling and for carrying out their individual leveling strokes (35). When leveling, all of the four jacks (24-27), for example, can be involved.

According to 5 it is alternatively possible to leave at least one jack, for example the jack (27), alone and only control the other three jacks (24,25,26) and have a leveling stroke (35) carried out. When leveling, the chassis (3) with its main level (4) is doing around the lifting support (27), in particular rotated about its reference point (23).

In the embodiment of 5 in the actual angular position (18), the reference point (23) of the lifting support (27) has the highest position in space. The leveling rotation of the chassis (3) takes place around this one highest point. In another embodiment that is not shown, the actual angular position (18) can only be inclined about the longitudinal axis (x) or the transverse axis (y). In this case, there are two highest reference points on one side of the chassis (3), which are at the same height. The leveling rotation of the chassis (3) can then take place around the relevant chassis side and the two highest reference points.

The leveling controller (8) can control the one or more drive devices (30) accordingly, so that the relevant jacks (24-27) carry out the respective leveling stroke (35) at the preferably predetermined lifting speed. Different lifting speeds can be adjusted in different ways.

With the fluidic, in particular hydraulic, jacks (24-27) this is according to 7 and 8th eg by the proportional valves (34) possible. In another variant with simple switching valves and a fixed flow opening, speed control is possible by clocked opening and closing of the valve with different frequencies or different opening/closing times. In the case of other, for example motorized, drive devices, the drive speed of the relevant motor can be controlled directly.

When executing the respective individual leveling strokes (35), it is also possible to regulate the respective lifting speed. Any deviations in speed can be determined by means of the detection device (13) and, if necessary, readjusted by the leveling control (8). The required change in speed can be calculated using the remaining distance of the specified lifting distance (h) and the time available until the desired angular position (19) is reached. The time required for leveling and the common leveling strokes (35) can also be calculated by the leveling control (8), in particular the evaluation module (9), when evaluating the angle signals and the individual strokes (h). The calculation can also include your own maximum specifications of the jacks for the achievable extension and lifting speed.

5 shows the chassis (3) and the structure (39) in the actual angular position (18) with solid lines. The desired angular position (19) reached at the end of the leveling is shown in dashed lines. 6 shows the leveled and, for example, horizontal target angular position (19).

9 illustrates the formation of a lifting support as a level controller (43). The level regulator (43) is formed by a preferably hydraulic cylinder, which is stationarily supported on the chassis (3), in particular a longitudinal member (5), and which acts on a wheel rocker arm (42) and, if necessary, moves it about its pivot bearing on the axle arrangement (40 ) rotates, with the chassis (3) performing a corresponding lifting movement. In this case, the odometer (15) is designed as a rotary encoder, which records the rotary movement performed by the wheel rocker arm (42) and reports it to the leveling control (8).

10 shows the initially mentioned variant of a decentralized fluidic drive device (30) for a fluidic, in particular hydraulic, lifting support (25). The drive device (30) is spatially separated and mounted at a distance from the lifting support (25) on the chassis (3), in particular on the longitudinal beam (5). The drive device (30) is connected to the lifting support (25) by suitable fluid lines, in particular hydraulic lines. 10 also shows a mounting bracket for the stationary and rigid mounting of an upright cylinder (28) at the attachment point on the side member (5).

11 clarifies a general procedure for leveling in several steps. In a first step (101), the leveling process is started, for example by an operator by entering commands on the operating device (38). In a second subsequent step (102), when the road vehicle (2) is stationary, the jacks (24-27) involved in the leveling process are extended until they make contact with the ground and possibly a little further, assuming the starting position and the actual angular position (18). In the next step (103), the inclination of the actual angular position (18) against the horizontal spatial plane and the one or more angular deviations compared to the desired target angular position are recorded, as well as the respective individual leveling strokes (h) and, if necessary, also from the angular deviation or deviations calculates the respective individual angular speeds for the at least some jacks (24-27) in order to reach the target angular position (19).

In the fourth step (104), the at least some jacks (24-27) are extended. This is preferably done simultaneously. During the extension, in the fifth step (105) the respective individual lifting distance and possibly also the respective individual lifting speed of the at least some jacks (24-27) are detected and monitored. If necessary, the lifting speed can also be adjusted individual jacks (24-27) can be readjusted. This is not absolutely necessary if the at least some jacks can reach the end of their predetermined individual lifting path (h) at different times. As soon as the detection device detects that the at least some jacks (24-27) have reached their predetermined individual lifting path (h), the jacks (24-27) in question are stopped and the leveling process is ended.

12 until 15 show a variant of the road vehicle (2) in the form of a trailer with a chassis (3) and a leveling device (1) of the type described above with the leveling control (8) and the leveling sensors (12). The chassis (3) has, for example, two side members (5) with one or more axle assemblies (40). A preferably rigid and, for example, V-shaped or tubular drawbar (45) together with a trailer hitch (46) on the front are mounted on the front longitudinal member ends. A removable or height-adjustable support element (47), for example a support wheel that is height-adjustable manually or by a drive, can be mounted on the drawbar (45) at a suitable point, for example at the front end of the drawbar. The trailer is externally driven and is pulled by a towing vehicle that is not shown and is coupled.

The jack arrangement (7) can comprise two, three or more, for example four, jacks (24-27) on the chassis (3) which can be controlled for leveling. Two or more jacks (25, 27) are preferably arranged on the axle assembly(s) (40), for example on their axle body(s) (44), on an axle bracket or on a side member (5) near the axle. This can be fluidic jacks of the type described above for the first variant with a drive device (30) and a detection device (13), for example according to FIG 1 or 10 , be. They are stationarily mounted on both sides of the central longitudinal axis (59) on the chassis (53) by means of the aforementioned attachment points and attachment fittings.

In the execution of 12 and 13 further jacks can be mounted on the road vehicle (2), in particular on the chassis (3). In this case, for example, in the area of the drawbar (45), two front jacks (24,26) can be stationarily mounted on the chassis (3) by means of said attachment points and attachment fittings. These front jacks (24,26) can be controlled by the leveling control (8) for leveling.

Additional jacks (48, 49) can be mounted in the manner mentioned at the rear end of the chassis. These can form the additional jacks mentioned at the outset, which are not involved in leveling and which are extended for support purposes after leveling has taken place. In another variant, these jacks (48, 49) can also be controlled when leveling in the manner described above.

The front and rear jacks (24,26,48,49) can be arranged in front of and behind the axle arrangement(s) (40) and on both sides of the central longitudinal axis (50) in the longitudinal direction of the chassis (3). They can be located at the corners of a superstructure (39). You can have the same or a different training than the axis-near jacks (25,27).

The trailer may initially be supported on the axle assembly(s) (40) and support member (47) for leveling. It is favorable here if, by lowering the support element (47), the chassis (3) assumes a downwardly inclined position in said direction of travel (37), in which the front end of the chassis is arranged lower than the rear end of the chassis.

In a variant of the leveling process described below, the jacks (25, 27) arranged in the axle area and the front jacks (24, 26) are extended by the leveling device (1), in particular the leveling control (8), until they make contact with the ground and a stable starting position is reached. The aforementioned inclined position can be retained in the starting position or, if necessary, increased. The extension movement can be continued via the ground contact determined by means of a detection device (17). The chassis (3) can be lifted out of the suspension, relieving the wheels (41) and supported on said jacks (24-27).

As with the first variant of 1 until 11 there is a main plane (4) of the chassis (3), in which the leveling sensor system (12) is preferably also arranged. This is preferably also on the central longitudinal axis (50). Leveling can be done in the to 1 until 11 take place in the manner described above.

In the stable starting position, the actual angular position (18) of the main plane (4) of the chassis with respect to a longitudinal axis (x) and a transverse axis (y) of the chassis (3) is detected by the leveling sensor (12) and transmitted to the leveling control (8). reported. The leveling control (8) compares the detected actual angular position (18) with a desired target position (19) of the main plane (4) and determines any angular deviation with respect to the longitudinal axis (x) and/or transverse axis (y) of the chassis ( 3).

From a determined angular deviation, reference points on the Main level (4) for at least one or some jacks (24-27) calculates a corresponding specification for their individual lifting distance (h) and preferably also for their individual lifting speed to reach the target angular position (19). Appropriate control commands are emitted to the jack arrangement (7), in particular the one or more jacks (24-27), via a control connection (36) for preferably simultaneous execution of leveling strokes (35) of the at least some jacks (24-27) with the specified ones individual lifting distances (h) and preferably individual lifting speeds. A detection device (13) uses measurement technology to detect the respective lifting paths (h) and preferably also the respective lifting speeds of the at least some jacks (24-27) during the leveling stroke (35) and reports this to the leveling control (8). The lifting speeds can be regulated as required.

After reaching the target angular position (19) or leveling position or before, the rear jacks (48,39), for example, can be extended. You can, for example, additionally support the leveled road vehicle (2).

The leveling technique described above has advantages in the case of weight-optimized trailers in which the floor of the superstructure (39) connected to the chassis (3) also supports and loads are absorbed in combination. The axle area has the greatest stability and rigidity of the chassis (3). The jacks (25,27) mounted here on the chassis (3) have a particularly effective and low-deformation effect on the chassis (3) and body (39). The front lifting supports (24, 26) arranged in the area of the drawbar are also located in a relatively stable area of the composite construction of chassis (3) and superstructure (39).

This lifting support arrangement (7) and the leveling technique described above are favorable in order to reduce or avoid deformations, in particular twisting, of the composite structure and in particular of the superstructure (39). The rear jacks (48, 49) are located in a more unstable area of the chassis and are therefore preferably not involved in leveling and are only used to support the leveled road vehicle (2).

Depending on the chassis and body construction, other leveling techniques and configurations of the jack arrangement (7) are also possible. If the chassis (3) and, if applicable, the structure (39) are sufficiently rigid, the rear jacks (48, 49) can also be used for leveling in the manner described above. The jacks (25, 27) arranged in the axle area can be omitted or can also be used for levelling. In this case, six jacks can be involved in leveling.

In a further variant with the lifting support arrangement (7) shown in FIG 12 and 13 it is possible to park the trailer with retracted jacks on the ground (6) and to bring the chassis (3) with its main plane (4) into the above-described and forward-downward inclined position. In this inclined position, the jacks (25, 27) arranged in the axle area can then be extended to ground contact and, if necessary, beyond that and bring the chassis (3), which is supported on the support element (47) at the front, with the main plane (4) into a stable starting position, in which detects the actual angular position (18) and compares it with the desired target angular position (19), any angular deviation about the longitudinal axis (x) and/or the transverse axis (y) being determined.

In a first leveling step, any angular deviation around the longitudinal axis (x) and the angle (β) is then compensated with a corresponding specification for the lifting distance (h) and preferably also the lifting speed and by actuating one or both jacks (25,27). A possible angular deviation around the transverse axis (y) and the angle (α) is not yet corrected.

For this further leveling step around the transverse axis (y), for example, the front and rear jacks (24,26, 48,49) can be extended to ground contact and then using an already calculated specification for the respective individual lifting path (h) and preferably also for the respective individual lifting speed for leveling. The leveling movement can be carried out around the central and near-axis jacks (25,27) and around the transverse axis (y). Alternatively, after extending the front and rear jacks (24,26,48,49) to ground contact, the actual angular position of the main plane (4) around the transverse axis (y) can be recorded and any angular deviation with an angle (α) can be calculated under creation of said specifications.

Such a procedure is advantageous if the front lifting supports (24, 26) are also arranged in a more unstable area of the chassis (3) and superstructure (39) that is sensitive to loads and deformation. The chassis (3) and the superstructure (48) are already supported on the central and near-axle jacks (25,27), so that only a less load- and deformation-critical rotational movement of the chassis (3) and superstructure (39) around these support points at the lifting supports (25, 27) which are preferably arranged at the same height in the longitudinal direction (50).

In a further variation, it is possible to use the support element (47) as a controllable lifting support which is connected to the leveling device (1), in particular the leveling control (8), in terms of control and signaling. In such a case, for example, leveling can take place with the controlled, extendable support element (47) and the lifting supports (25, 27) close to the axis. This can be a triangle leveling.

When the jacks (25, 27) close to the axis are extended to ground contact and possibly beyond, a stable starting position is assumed, supported at the front by the support element (47) and preferably directed obliquely downwards to the front, in which the actual angular position (18) of the Main plane (4) and the determination of any angular deviation about the longitudinal axis (x) and / or the transverse axis (y). In this way, the specified specifications for the respective individual lifting distances (h) and preferably also individual angular velocities of the jack(s) (25,27,47) involved in leveling can be determined and corresponding control commands can be emitted to the jack arrangement (7). The extension movement of the lifting support(s) (25, 27, 47) involved can be detected and monitored with a detection device (13) in the manner described above with regard to distance and, if applicable, speed. After taking the leveled target angular position (19), the front and rear jacks (24,26,48,49) can be extended to ground contact and can additionally support the leveled road vehicle (2).

In a variant that is not shown, it is also possible, in the case of a road vehicle (2), in particular a trailer, to fasten said front and rear jacks (24,26,48,49) to the floor of the superstructure (39) near the chassis.

Further modifications of the exemplary embodiments shown and described are possible in various ways. The number of jacks (24-27) involved in the leveling process can also be two, three, four or more than four in other variants that are not shown.

During the leveling process, all jacks provided for leveling can be actuated and carry out a respective individual leveling stroke (35). An individual leveling stroke (35) can also include a lowering movement. It is also possible to have one or more jacks perform a lifting movement during leveling and one or more other jacks to perform a lowering movement.

Deviating from 5 A leveling rotation of the chassis (3) can also take place around the lowest reference point in the actual angular position (18), the further extended jacks being selected for this purpose and performing a lowering movement. It is also possible to have said leveling rotation of the chassis (3) carried out around a different reference point located at an intermediate level. Finally, it is also possible to provide a virtual pivot point for the leveling rotation of the chassis (3) and to have all the jacks provided for leveling carry out a corresponding individual leveling stroke with a lifting or lowering movement.

Mechanical jacks can be designed, for example, as a linearly extendable spindle drive or a rack and pinion drive with a motor, in particular an electric motor, drive device (30). In these cases and in the cases described above, the extendable support element (29) performs a linear and preferably vertical extension movement and a corresponding retraction movement when the load is relieved.

In another embodiment according to 14 and 15 a support means (29) of a mechanical lifting support can be formed as a swivel base with a plurality of swivel arms connected to one another, which perform a spreading movement to carry out a leveling stroke (35). The drive device (30) is adapted accordingly. It consists, for example, of a spindle or rack and pinion drive with an electric motor or a fluidic cylinder. 14 and 15 show a spindle drive with an electric motor which rotates a stationary threaded spindle on which a spindle nut is moved axially and is articulated to a swivel arm.

The detection device (13) can have, for example, measuring means (14), in particular a displacement meter (15), which are designed, for example, as rotary encoders on the drive device (30). 15 shows by way of example a detection device (17) for ground contact, which is arranged at the foot part of the support means (29) and is designed as a pressure sensor or the like.

In an embodiment of 12 and 13 , especially in the case of a trailer, such flat mechanical lifting support constructions can be used in the retracted state for the front and rear lifting supports (24,26,48,49).

Furthermore, the features of the exemplary embodiments and the aforementioned modifications can be combined with one another and also exchanged in any way within the scope of the claims.

Reference List

1

leveling device

2

road vehicle

3

chassis

4

main level

5

side members

6

underground

7

jack assembly

8th

level control

9

evaluation module

10

control module

11

communication module

12

leveling sensors

13

detection device Hub

14

measuring equipment

15

odometer

16

flow meter

17

Ground contact detection device

18

actual angular position

19

Target angular position, leveling position

20

reference point

21

reference point

22

reference point

23

reference point

24

lifting support

25

lifting support

26

lifting support

27

lifting support

28

cylinder

29

Piston rod, support means

30

Drive device lifting support(s)

31

Fluid power unit, hydraulic power unit

32

tank

33

pump

34

Fluid valve, proportional valve

35

leveling stroke

36

control connection

37

driving direction forward

38

operating device

39

Construction

40

axle arrangement

41

vehicle wheel

42

wheel swing arm

43

level control

44

axle body

45

drawbar

46

trailer hitch

47

Support element, support wheel, lifting support

48

lifting support

49

lifting support

50

central longitudinal axis

101

Step 1, start leveling process

102

Step 2, taking starting position

103

Step 3, recording the actual angular position and calculation

104

Step 4, Stroke execution to level

105

Step 5, monitoring lift distance and lift speed

106

Step 6, end of leveling process

x

longitudinal axis

y

transverse axis

e.g

vertical axis

H

stroke distance

a

Angle around transverse axis

β

angle around the longitudinal axis

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely 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

• EP 3390174 B1 [0002]
• DE 102017113423 A1 [0003]
• DE 102007030107 A1 [0004]

Claims (27)

Leveling device for a road vehicle (2) with a chassis (3), the leveling device (1) having a leveling sensor system (12) and a leveling controller (8), the leveling sensor system (12) for detecting angular positions of the chassis (2) with respect to a longitudinal axis (x) and a transverse axis (y) of the chassis (3) and wherein the leveling control (8) is designed to control a jack assembly (7) of a plurality of jacks (24-27) on the chassis (3) to during the leveling process to achieve a desired desired angular position (19) of the chassis (3), characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that during the leveling process, at least some of the jacks (24-27) preferably perform a leveling stroke (35) at the same time for reaching the desired target angular position (19) and - the leveling controller (8) controls the leveling process according to a lifting distance (h) and preferably also according to a lifting speed of the leveling stroke (35) of the at least some jacks (24-27) and if necessary, regulates, - the leveling controller (8) providing the at least some jacks (24-27) with an individual lifting distance (h) and preferably also an individual lifting speed for their leveling stroke (35) and for reaching the desired target angular position (19). - wherein the leveling device (1) comprises a detection device (13) connected to the leveling control (8), which detects the respective lifting distances (h) and preferably also the respective lifting speeds of the at least some lifting supports (24-27) during the leveling stroke (35) detected by measurement and reported to the leveling control (8). leveling device claim 1 , characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that it stops the at least some jacks (24-27) when the end of their respectively predetermined individual lifting path (h) has been reached. leveling device claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that - it compares a detected actual angular position (18) of a main plane (4) of the chassis (3) with a desired desired angular position (19) of the main plane (4). and a possible angular deviation is thereby determined - and from a determined angular deviation on the basis of known jack positions and reference points (20-23) respectively assigned to the jacks (24-27) on the main plane (4) for at least some jacks (24-27) a corresponding specification in each case calculated for their individual lifting distance (h) and preferably also for their individual lifting speed to reach the target angular position (19), - and emits corresponding control commands via a control connection (36) to the jack arrangement (7) for the preferably simultaneous execution of leveling strokes (35 ) the at least some jacks (24-27) with the predetermined individual lifting distances (h) and preferably individual lifting speeds. leveling device claim 1 , 2 or 3 , characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that it calculates the respective individual lifting speeds of the at least some lifting supports (24-27) in such a way that these lifting supports (24-27) simultaneously mark the end of their respective individual lifting path (h) to reach. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that it regulates the respective individual lifting speed of the at least some lifting supports (24-27) during the leveling stroke (35). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that when detecting the actual angular position (18) of the chassis (3), in particular the main plane (4), it determines which individual reference point (20-23) of a jack (24-27) has the highest position or which several reference points (20-23) of jacks (24-27) on one side of the chassis (3) have the highest position. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that it selects the jacks (24-27) located at the lower reference points (20-23) for the execution of a leveling stroke (35) for leveling . Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling control (8) is designed in such a way that at the beginning of the leveling process it controls all jacks (24-27) involved in leveling until they come into contact with the ground and a stable starting position of the chassis (3rd ) can be extended and then in the starting position the actual angular position (18) of the main plane (4) is recorded, the angular position comparison is carried out and the specifications for the individual lifting distances (h) and preferably for the individual lifting speeds are calculated. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that the leveling control (8) is designed as a control device or as an implementable software component for another control. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling control (8) comprises an evaluation module (9) for determining the angular deviations. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling control (8) comprises a control module (10) for controlling the lifting support arrangement (7). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling device (1), in particular the leveling control (8), has a communication module (11) for preferably wireless communication with an operating device (38). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling device (1) has a detection device (17) for a respective ground contact of the lifting supports (24-27). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detection device (17) has at least one pressure sensor. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detection device (13) comprises one or more measuring means (14) which can be assigned or are assigned to the lifting supports (24-27). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a measuring means (14) is designed as an odometer (15). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a measuring means (14) is designed as a flow meter (16) for a fluid of a fluidic, in particular hydraulic, lifting support (24-27). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a fluidic, in particular hydraulic, lifting support (24-27) can be assigned or connected to a controllable fluid valve (34) which can be or is connected to the leveling control (8) and has an adjustable flow rate, in particular a proportional valve assigned. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling sensor system (12) is designed to determine angles (α, β) of a main plane (4) of the chassis (3) with respect to a longitudinal axis (x) and a transverse axis (y) of the chassis (3) to be recorded metrologically. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leveling sensor system (12) has a combination sensor which detects both angles (α, β) at the same location. Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the jack arrangement (7) comprises fluid, in particular hydraulic, jacks (24-27) and/or mechanical, in particular electromotive, jacks (24-27). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the jacks (24-27) can be or are mounted in a stationary and preferably rigid manner on the chassis (3). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the jack arrangement (7) has a drive device (30) for the jacks (24-27). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive device (30) acts on one or more lifting supports (24-27). Leveling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive device (30) comprises a tank (32) and a pump (33). Road vehicle with a chassis (3), a jack arrangement (7) mounted on the chassis (3) with a plurality of jacks (24-27) and with a leveling device (1) for leveling the chassis (3), characterized in that the leveling device (1 ) after one of the Claims 1 until 25 is trained. road vehicle Claim 26 , characterized in that the road vehicle (2) is designed as a motor vehicle or as a trailer, in particular with a rigid drawbar (45) and a front support element (47).

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