EP1149751B1 - Actuating device for a lenght adjustor and/or a locking system of an automatic coupler - Google Patents

Abstract

Facilities (31) are provided for transmitting the operating force from the operating unit (30) for the automatic changeover system (13) and-or the latching system (7). The facilities (31) for transmitting the operating force between the operating unit (30) and the latching system (7) and-or the automatic change-over (13), include at least one flexible designed transmission element (32), concerning its suitability for use on rail vehicles. The transmission element is pref. designed as a Bowden cable for tension and pressure forces.

Description

The invention relates to an actuating device for an automatic changeover and a locking system of an automatic clutch for rail vehicles, in particular for train couplings ; also an automatic clutch for rail vehicles, in particular Train coupling.

1. Adolf Felsing, Eberhard Hofmann: "Moderne Technik bei der Knorr-Bremse, Systeme für Schienenfahrzeuge, Die Automatische Zugkupplung - Stand der Entwicklung und Versuchsprogramm", Sonderdruck eines Beitrages in der Fachzeitschrift ETR, Heft 4/95

2. EP 0 618 126 A2

Automatic couplings for rail vehicles, in particular automatic train couplings, are known in a large number of designs from the prior art. As a representative, reference is made to the following publications:

1. Adolf Felsing, Eberhard Hofmann: "Modern technology at Knorr-Bremse, systems for rail vehicles, the automatic train coupling - state of development and test program", reprint of a contribution in the trade journal ETR, issue 4/95

2. EP 0 618 126 A2

The automatic couplings for rail vehicles act as coupling elements, which are used when forming the trains while traveling between the individual Rail vehicles, especially wagons, resulting pressure and traction forces as well Transfer relative movements at the vehicle ends when cornering, cushion and dampen and absorb the relative movements to each other. The Known automatic train couplings essentially exist at least from a coupling head with centering surfaces, a coupling arm, a locking system, an actuation system for the locking system, a support and the Coupling bodies associated with line couplings from air line couplings. Of an automatic changeover can also be provided, which also has a corresponding one Actuating system is assigned. The actuation systems for the automatic changeover and the locking system can be combined into one system. In addition to realizing the function of coupling with a conventional one Screw coupling, a mixed pull coupling can be provided, which as second coupling system can be integrated into the automatic train coupling. Furthermore can the basic version with a mixed air coupling as well as an air coupling for the main air tank line and line couplings from electrical couplings equipped or supplemented. Regarding the kinematics of the individual elements of the coupling system can refer to the publications mentioned above become.

For coupling or uncoupling in track arches as well as when driving on and for The coupling head can be moved in two different ways by means of the automatic changeover Operating positions or functional positions are brought, a first functional position "long" and a second function position "short". The functional positions are by the position of the coupling head relative to the coupling arm, by means of which the The coupling head is articulated to the car to be coupled, characterized. The Functional positions are achieved by a relative displacement of the coupling head realized compared to the clutch arm of the automatic clutch. Before the The coupling center is located some distance from the plane, which is due to the axial extension of the side buffers from the rail vehicle in the installed position or wagon is writable and also referred to as page buffer level is in the "long" position. When pressing the wagons on the straight track for buffer contact the clutch automatically returns to the side buffer level Coupling head moves relative to the coupling arm and takes the position "short" one. Only after the wagons to be connected are separated does the Coupling back into the "long" position.

• Entriegelung
• Langstellen der Kupplung, beispielsweise zum Durchfahren enger Gleisbögen
• Halten in der Stoßstellung (Kuppeln nicht möglich)

By means of the actuation system, the automatic changeover and / or the locking system can be operated from the vehicle side. This fulfills the following three functions:

• unlocking
• Long positions of the coupling, for example for driving through narrow curves
• Hold in the push position (coupling is not possible)

It is sufficient to disconnect the vehicles, only one of the two together to unlock engaged clutches. The actuation system includes a device for specifying the desired function, usually in the form an operating handle, which is preferably always on the same side of the vehicle, so that there is the possibility at each coupling point Operation operated from both sides of the train. There is also a facility to convert or transfer the desired position to the Bolt system or the automatic changeover provided, this with the operating handle communicates and is formed by a rigid rod member becomes. To operate the operating handle and a corresponding power transmission on the swivel lever to control the automatic changeover or the To produce locking system, the arrangement of the actuator is preferably in an area through the side walls of the rail vehicle or the wagon to be coupled is limited. The actuating device is preferably completely in an area between the center of the coupling head and the articulation level arranged on the vehicle. In practice, however, this often leads to Problems because the actuating rod of a standardized actuating device often collide with other elements due to special wagon construction conditions would and for setting the corresponding functional positions not in the would be operated accordingly.

US-A-3,592,250 shows a pull coupling with a cable for unlocking the coupling, and DE-A-197 57 621 describes a changeover device for an automatic train coupling.

The invention is therefore based on the object of an actuating device for Bolt system and automatic changeover of an automatic clutch for To further develop rail vehicles, in particular an automatic train coupling, that this universal, i.e. regardless of the wagon construction conditions can be used and the function setting of the automatic train coupling is safe guaranteed. The aim is to create a standardized actuation device given for a variety of different installation conditions his.

The solution according to the invention is characterized by the features of claim 1 characterized. Advantageous refinements are given in the subclaims.

According to the invention, the actuating device has an automatic changeover and / or a locking system of an automatic clutch, in particular an automatic Train coupling for rail vehicles, for power transmission from an actuator for at least indirect generation of an actuating force for adjustment the following selectable function positions "unlocking", "long position" and "push position" of the clutch to the locking system and / or to the automatic changeover at least one transmission element that is flexible with regard to the arrangement or feasibility on. This is on an adjusting device of the automatic changeover and / or the locking system articulated, the transferable actuating force pivoting and / or a displacement of the actuating device, which with other elements of the Automatic changeover and / or the locking system is operatively connected. The The transmission element is usually used to transmit tensile or compressive forces designed. In a preferred embodiment, this is designed for tensile and compressive forces. There are a plurality for the design of the transmission element of opportunities. It is conceivable to use a linkage consisting of several individual elements, which are articulated together. Another advantageous embodiment is that the transmission element is flexible. The transmission element is designed in a preferred embodiment as a Bowden cable.

With the solution according to the invention, it is possible to use the actuators for Automatic changeover and / or the locking system independent of the car construction To arrange conditions anywhere in or on the vehicle and the distance for adjusting or adjusting the locking system and / or automatic changeover to be bridged in any way with the flexible transmission element. The flexible transmission element is in terms of its effect and related can be laid on the actuator with any guide. A collision of the transmission elements or the actuator with other components eliminated.

The actuating device comprises at least one actuating element. This is preferable executed in the form of a manually operated lever and points to the good Operability preferably at least one handle. Because at least the handle in the installed state positions on the rail vehicle should be accessible assigned certain functional positions of the clutch. For the execution of the actuating element there are a variety of options. This is preferably however, as a rotatably mounted, axially displaceable actuating lever executed. The possible positions of the handle correspond to another Aspect of the invention preferably the positions of a handle of an actuating element a conventional actuator with a rigid transmission element. This offers the advantage of being independent of the actuation system used always the same hand lever positions characterize the same functional positions, which significantly avoid sources of error in manual clutch actuation helps and therefore also represents an optimal solution in terms of security.

To further a simple actuating element, preferably a conventional, i.e. already used actuator from the perspective of that To operate the operating element is a corresponding transmission and conversion system provided, which by means of the actuator selectable functional positions and the required forces the transmission element, preferably transmits the Bowden cable. Preferably done the operation with regard to the lever positions in the installation position in the circumferential direction the guide axis of the hand lever or viewed in the horizontal and vertical direction, analogous to the conventional solution of the one coupled with an operating rod Actuator. This has the advantage that the actuator operating person with regard to the horizontal and vertical direction Positions of the actuating element, preferably the hand lever, in particular the handle of the hand lever, not between conventional and inventive Solution needs to differentiate. The transmission or conversion system serves the conversion, a desired function position to be set the clutch at least indirectly characterizing size, which by means of Actuating element can be predetermined in a corresponding force, which is in a path covered by the Bowden cable. The one with the actuator - preferably in the form of an operating lever - predefinable desired functional positions are at least two, the movement of the actuating lever sizes described at least indirectly. As these can be there a path and an angle can be viewed in relation to the actuating lever axis.

This means that the actuating element viewed in the installed position in the axial direction is displaceable and additionally or on its own still about its guide axis is rotatable. The movements of the hand lever are on the Bowden cable or transmit the flexible transmission element for tensile and compressive forces, which at one Actuating device for the locking system and / or the automatic changeover is articulated and thus takes effect on it.

A guide is provided for mounting the actuating element, which, viewed in the installed position, is preferably oriented in the horizontal direction and allows the hand lever to be displaceable in this direction. An inclined design is also conceivable, but is not sought for reasons of manageability. The guide is also designed such that it also allows rotation of the actuating element in the guide. The actuating element comprises in one end region a part which can be manually attacked by a person for actuation and which is preferably designed as a handle. Furthermore, the actuating element has an extended partial area oriented in the functional position of the actuating device in the axial or horizontal direction. The elongated partial area or the guide of the elongated partial area or the actuating element have a link which interacts with at least one fixedly arranged projection on the guide or on a element forming the guide or the elongated partial area. The link guide is designed such that, starting from a basic position, which can correspond to a functional position I ', for example "unlocking", the functional positions II' and III ', which correspond to the functional positions ", can be achieved by rotating and / or axially displacing the hand lever. long "or" butt position ".
The extended partial area preferably carries the link guide. This is formed by incorporating guideways, for example in the form of grooves, which interact with at least one projecting element which is arranged in a fixed manner on the elements forming the guide. The grooves in the extended area of the actuating element, designed for the purpose of training as a backdrop, are designed both parallel and at an angle to the actuating element in relation to the guidance of the actuating element and, viewed in terms of their extension in the installed position, are designed in a horizontal and vertical direction in such a way that they also have one Form a stop for the displaceability of the actuating element in the guide. For this purpose, the actuating element is preferably designed with a circular cross-section, at least in the extended partial area which carries the link. The functional position II 'is then characterized, for example, by a maximum possible axial displacement of the actuating element in the guide and a rotary movement of the handle relative to a vertical handle position in the basic position by 90, while the third functional position is characterized by a smaller axial displacement of the actuating element in the guide compared to the second functional position and a rotary movement of the handle relative to the basic position can be described by 180.

The means for transmitting the actuating force between the actuator and Bolt system and / or the automatic changeover also include means for transmission and / or conversion of the actuating element for preselecting the functional positions forces applied to the transmission element. These are as a means of Conversion, a desired functional position of the clutch to be set at least indirectly characterizing size, which by means of the actuating element can be specified in a corresponding implementation path and / or a force on Transmission element executed and include a rotatably mounted lever device, with at least one lever to which the transmission element is articulated. The lever has a guide, which has a projection on the actuating element interacts. The transmission element is preferably articulated on the lever between the rotatable mounting of the lever device and the Guidance on the lever. To form the projection on the actuating element, the The first section also has a joint, which in the simplest case is directly connected to the Lever cooperates, the lever being rotatably mounted in a bearing and with the joint is coupled via a guide, preferably a longitudinal or sliding guide is. The sliding guide is provided by a longitudinal bore and in the lever a projection provided on the joint, preferably a pin. In the event of a shift the lever experiences the lever due to the positive guidance the coupling with the joint rotates around the bearing. The storage is thereby stationary on the elements forming the guide for the actuating element arranged. When the actuating element is actuated in the circumferential direction, the remains Projection, in particular pin, still in operative connection with the sliding guide. The Hinge thus only allows the displacement, but no twisting. To the The flexible transmission element, preferably the Bowden cable, is directly connected to the lever. This is also preferably the guide for the actuating element forming elements. The guides for the actuator and the Bowden cable are arranged essentially parallel to each other. In the Transfer of forces from the actuator to the Bowden cable via the lever The Bowden cable experiences a deflection before leaving the guide, which changes in a non-parallelism between a Bowden cable outer shell and the actual one Bowden cable precipitates. To avoid this disadvantage it is under another Aspect provided, the Bowden cable outer shell via a ball joint in a to lead second backdrop. This is preferably also in the form of a sliding guide, this being realized by the engagement of a projection in a longitudinal bore can be. The protrusion, which can also be designed as a pin, is preferably attached to the lever, in the unlocked state, that is to say in the basic state, the projection and the backdrop parallel to the longitudinal guide of the actuating element are aligned.

For automatic resetting of the actuation device and the means for transmission the actuating force between the actuating device and the locking system and / or the automatic changeover to the basic position is at least one prestressable spring device see which in the area of a first end viewed in the installation position is attached to a stationary housing or frame element and in the area of a second end at least indirectly connected to the end region of the Bowden cable is.

In a further aspect of the invention there are means for resetting the actuating element in the guide to the starting position after unlocking, that is after rotation of the actuator in the guide, that is Rotation around the axis of the actuating element is provided. These include at least a leg spring, which is in the extended partial area and stationary on one, the guide for the actuating element forming element is articulated. The extended one Part of the actuating element or the hand lever comprises at least two sub-areas, the first sub-area carrying the backdrop and thus the grooves, while the second part only for the support or management function of the Hand lever in the horizontal direction when moving in this direction. The Leg spring is preferably between the first section and the second sub-area arranged. It is also conceivable, at least the extended partial area to be carried out in two parts, the means for the provision between the individual Parts are arranged and must be designed and designed so that a Slidability of at least the backdrop or pin-bearing portion of the Actuator in the guide and rotatability about the guide axis is guaranteed.

In an advantageous further development, the actuating device has means for preventing unlocking in the event of a broken automatic coupling in the region of the connection to the wagon or rail vehicle when the rail vehicles are separated by stretching the Bowden cable. These comprise a holder which, when the automatic train coupling is installed, is designed to be flexible in the direction of the theoretical connecting _axis A _{V theoretically of} the rail vehicles to be coupled with one another. The bracket can be designed in many ways. This is preferably attachable to the coupling head and includes, for example, an element forming a guide for the Bowden cable. The element forming the guide is connected via a flexible element, for example in the form of a hinge connection, to a holding element which can be fastened to the coupling head. This prevents the operating lever of the locking system, which is not yet in the "unlocking" position, from turning further until the Bowden cable breaks. This prevents the unwanted unlocking of the automatic train coupling.

The solution or configuration of an actuating device according to the invention is not limited to a specific version of the automatic train coupling. This can be carried out, for example, as in the publications mentioned at the beginning. The disclosure content of these documents regarding the construction of an automatic Coupling for rail vehicles, in particular an automatic train coupling is hereby fully included in the disclosure content of the present application added. The automatic train coupling exists, for example, next to the Assemblies coupling head, coupling arm, locking system and / or automatic changeover from a support device, an air coupling for the main air line, a mixed pull coupling and a mixed air clutch. This basic version can additionally can be supplemented by further modules. Than these assemblies can for example the air coupling for the main air tank line and an electrical coupling be considered.

The specific constructive design of the automatic train coupling with regard to the individual functional groups are at the discretion of the responsible specialist. This also applies to the specific constructive design of the individual elements of the Actuator and the connection to the vehicle.

Figur 1a und 1b

verdeutlichen in schematisch vereinfachter Darstellung eine automatische Kupplung mit einer erfindungsgemäß gestalteten Betätigungsvorrichtung in zwei Ansichten;

Figur 2

verdeutlicht in schematischer Darstellung eine vorteilhafte Ausführung einer Betätigungseinrichtung der erfindungsgemäßen Betätigungsvorrichtung;

Figur 3a und 3b

verdeutlichen in schematisch vereinfachter Darstellung anhand eines Ausschnittes aus einer automatischen Kupplung die Ausbildung einer erfindungsgemäß gestalteten Betätigungsvorrichtung mit einer Einrichtung zum Schutz der automatischen Kupplung vor dem Herunterfallen;

Figur 4a - 4c

verdeutlichen in schematisch vereinfachter Darstellung anhand von Ausschnitten aus einer Ausführung einer automatischen Kupplung die Realisierung der einzelnen Funktionsstellungen.

The solution according to the invention is explained below with reference to figures. The following is shown in detail:

Figure 1a and 1b

illustrate in a schematic simplified representation an automatic clutch with an actuating device designed according to the invention in two views;

Figure 2

illustrates in a schematic representation an advantageous embodiment of an actuating device of the actuating device according to the invention;

Figure 3a and 3b

illustrate in a schematically simplified representation, using a section of an automatic clutch, the design of an actuating device designed according to the invention with a device for protecting the automatic clutch from falling off;

Figure 4a - 4c

illustrate the implementation of the individual functional positions in a schematically simplified representation using sections from an embodiment of an automatic clutch.

FIGS. 1 a and 1 b illustrate in a schematically simplified representation using an embodiment of an automatic coupling for rail vehicles, in particular an automatic pull coupling 1, in two views the basic structure and the mode of operation of an actuating device 2 designed according to the invention. FIG. 1 a clarifies this when the automatic coupling 1 is viewed in FIG Installation position in a rail vehicle or wagon 3, the view of this in the direction of the theoretical connecting _axis A _{V theoretically} for the coupling between the two rail vehicles or wagons 3 to be coupled together. The wagon 3 is only indicated. 1b shows the view from above according to FIG. 1a. In FIGS. 1a and 1b, for the sake of simplification, only the most essential elements of the automatic train coupling 1 are shown to illustrate the solution according to the invention. The pull coupling 1 can, however, be combined with other additional modules.

The automatic train coupling 1 comprises a coupling head 4 which is provided with a coupling profile 5 and has centering surfaces 6. When moving together two coupling heads 4 designed in this way, each of which is assigned to one of the two rail vehicles to be connected, in particular wagons 3, these are brought together by their respective centering surfaces 6 such that their longitudinal axes A _LK , which in the installed position on the rail vehicle with the wagon axis A _{W are} identical, aligned. The front contour of the coupling head 4 is usually claw-shaped. To realize the mechanical connection between two rail vehicles or wagons 3, the two heads 4 interlock and are secured in this position by a locking system, not shown in detail in this figure, which opens when coupling, closing or decoupling the coupling profile 5 , A coupling arm 10 is provided for transmitting the tensile forces from the coupling head 4 via a hinge pin 8 to a tension spring 9. On this, the coupling head 4 is mounted to be longitudinally displaceable. Also recognizable are so-called pre-compression springs 11, here in detail 11.1 and 11.2, which always press the coupling head 4 into a "long" position, which corresponds to the position ready for coupling. These are designed as compression springs and transmit the initial and weight forces from the coupling head 4 to the chassis of the vehicle via a centering arm. The pre-compression springs 11.1 and 11.2 are supported on a support device 12 which is connected to the rail vehicle or the wagon 3. In addition to carrying the coupling head 4, the supporting device 12 has the task of pushing it forward with a defined force and automatically returning it to the central position after a deflection.

To set the positions "long" or "short" is one that is only indicated in this figure Automatic changeover 13 provided. The execution of the locking system 7 and Automatic changeover 13 can be carried out in various ways. As a rule, these systems however coupled together. The automatic changeover 13 and the locking system 7 can thereby, as shown in FIGS. 4a-4c. Regarding one possible Design in detail is referred to the representation in these figures.

The locking system 7 and the automatic changeover is one; preferably shared actuator 2 assigned.
The actuating device 2 provided for actuating the automatic changeover mechanism 13 and the locking system 7 essentially fulfills the function of setting the functional positions "unlocking", "long position of the coupling", for example when driving through narrow bends, and "holding in the butt position", that is to say when coupling is no longer possible. To disconnect the vehicles 3, it is sufficient to unlock only one of the two clutches. The actuating device comprises an actuating device 30 and means 31 for transmitting the actuating force to the locking system 7 and / or the automatic changeover 13. The means 31 for transmitting the actuating force to the locking system 7 and / or the automatic changeover 13 are with these, in particular with one that Actuating force in a linear and / or a pivoting movement or the like. implementing actuating device 66, which is directly assigned to the automatic changeover 13 and / or the locking system 7 or is a component of these devices. According to the invention, the means 31 for transmitting the actuating force comprise at least one flexible transmission element for tensile and / or compressive forces 32, which is preferably designed as a Bowden cable 33. The means 31 further comprise a transmission and / or conversion system 36 which is arranged between the actuating element 34, which is usually designed as a hand lever 35, and the Bowden cable and which, as a means for converting, has a desired functional position I ', II' to be set. , III 'of the coupling 1 at least indirectly characterizing size, which can be predetermined by means of the actuating element 34, are carried out in a corresponding implementation path and / or a force on the transmission element 32. The transmission or conversion system 36 assigned to the ground cable is used to convert a variable that at least indirectly characterizes the desired operating position to be set or the functional state of the clutch, which can be predetermined by means of the actuating element 34, into a corresponding implementation path on the Bowden cable 33 or a force , which acts on the actuating device 66. The desired functional positions which can be predetermined with the actuating lever 34 in the form of a hand lever 35 are described by at least two variables which at least indirectly characterize the movement of the hand lever 35. The hand lever 35 is designed such that it is both rotated or pivoted about its guide axis F _A and can also be moved in the axial direction. This movement of the hand lever 35 due to the force applied to the hand lever 35 is transmitted via the means 69 for transmitting or converting the functional position selected by means of the hand lever 35 to the Bowden cable 33 articulated on the actuating device 66 of the automatic changeover device 13 or the locking system 7. The means for transmission 69 form a transmission and conversion system 36, which is shown in detail together with the actuating device 30 in FIG. 2a.

The hand lever 35 is rotatable, but slidably mounted. This is in addition a guide 40 which is aligned in the axial direction and a displaceability of the hand lever in the axial direction, assigned. Furthermore, it is Guide 40 executed such that this also a rotation of the hand lever 35 allowed. The hand lever 35 includes one for actuation on the part of a person vulnerable part 41, which is designed as a handle 42. Furthermore, the Hand lever 35 one in the functional position of the actuator in the axial direction aligned extended part 43, which carries a backdrop 44. The backdrop 44 is thereby of grooves 45, which are incorporated into the extended part 43 of the hand lever 35 are formed, these grooves relative to the guide 40 of the hand lever 35 run both parallel and at an angle to this and executed in this way are that these have a connection to limit the displaceability of the extended Form part of the hand lever in the axial direction in the guide 40. The extended one Part 43 of the hand lever 35 preferably has a circular cross section for this purpose on. The setting 44 operates when the hand lever 35 is actuated with a pin 46 together, which is arranged in the initial region 47 of the guide 40 and into the Setting 44, in particular the grooves 45, engages. Due to the formation of the grooves 45, in cooperation with the pin 46, the displaceability of the hand lever 35, in particular of the extended part 43 of the hand lever in the axial direction and in The circumferential direction of the hand lever 35 is defined and limited. To reset the Hand lever 35 in the guide 40 in the starting position after unlocking, i.e. in the Basic position, a leg spring 48 is provided, which extends between extended Part 43 and the guide 40 is arranged. The extended part of the hand lever 43 is To this end, it is designed at least in two parts, the first partial region 49 being the backdrop 44 and thus the grooves 45 carries, while the second portion 50 only for support or guide function of the hand lever 35 in the axial direction when displaced in the axial Direction serves. The leg spring 48 is between the first partial area and the second partial area 50.

For the purpose of transmitting the actuating force to the Bowden cable 33, the first sub-area 49 has a joint 51 which cooperates with a lever 52, wherein the lever 52 is rotatably mounted in a bearing 53 and with the joint 51 is coupled via a longitudinal guide 54. The longitudinal guide 54 is by a longitudinal bore 55 provided in lever 52 and a projection provided on the joint, in particular pin 56 realized. When the hand lever is moved 35 in the guide 40, the guide 40 in the illustrated case from the two side walls 57a and 57b of a U-shaped profile element 58 is formed the lever 52 due to the positive guidance by the coupling with the joint 51 a pivoting movement about the bearing axis of the bearing 53. When the Hand lever 35 in the form of a rotational movement, the pin 56 remains with the Longitudinal guide 54 in operative connection. The joint 51 thus only allows one Displacement of the pin 56 in the axial direction, i.e. towards the guide 40, however no twisting. For this purpose, the joint 51 is in the axial direction of the guide in Installation position considered firmly connected to the actuator 34, but free of a non-rotatable connection to this. The Bowden cable is articulated to the lever 52 33. This is guided through the side wall 57b of the U-shaped profile plate 58. The Bowden cable 33 comprises at least one Bowden cable outer casing 60 which, for example wire-like element 67, the actual transmission element 32, encloses. When transferring the forces from the hand lever 35 to the Bowden cable 33 the Bowden cable 33, in particular the wire-like element, experiences the lever 52 67 within the U-shaped profile element 58 a deflection, which is in a Non-parallelism between the Bowden cable outer casing 60 and that enclosed by it Element 67 precipitates. In order to avoid this, it is also provided that the Bowden cable outer shell 60 via a ball joint 61 in another to lead second backdrop. The second backdrop is designated 62. The leadership is also in the form of a longitudinal or sliding guide 63, this by engaging a pin 64 is realized in a longitudinal bore 68. The pin is 64 attached to the lever 52, wherein in the unlocked state, that is, in the basic state Pin 64 and the backdrop 62 aligned parallel to the longitudinal guide 40 of the hand lever 35 are while in the deflected state, i.e. the other functional positions II 'and III', the Bowden cable outer casing 60 by deflecting the link 62 parallel to End of the Bowden cable 33 or the actual transmission element in the form of wire-like element 67 is held.

To reset the Bowden cable 33 is at least one prestressable spring device 74 is provided, which has a first end region 75 on the side wall 57b of the U-shaped profile element 58 is fastened and with its second end region 76 at least indirectly with the Bowden cable 33, in particular the end region 65 of the Bowden cable 33 is coupled. In the case shown, the linkage is made via Lever 52.

In Figures 1a and 1b and in the pictogram given for the position of the Hand lever 35 is the functional position "unlocking" with I ', with II' the functional position "Push position" and III 'marked the functional position "long".

The embodiment according to FIG. 2a clarifies the structure of a design according to the invention Actuator in the functional position I. The setting of the functional position II '"butt position" takes place according to the pictogram according to the figure 2b by pulling the hand lever 35 almost completely out of the guide 40, that is, the axial displacement of the hand lever 35 to the stop position. there the Bowden cable 33 articulated on the lever 52 likewise experiences a corresponding one Force, and the Bowden cable 33 or its end region 65 becomes circular around the bearing 53 pivoted. To avoid jamming between Bowden cable 33 and the Bowden cable outer casing 60 becomes the end region of the Bowden cable 33, in particular of the wire-like element 67 by guiding the Bowden cable outer casing 60, which is mounted in the ball joint 61, in the backdrop 62 parallel to the other elements of the Bowden cable 33, in particular the Bowden cable outer casing 60 held. It also experiences when deflected to the setting in the functional position II '"push position" of the hand lever 35 a rotation about its axis by about 90 degrees horizontal direction. In the functional state "unlock" is the handle 42 of the hand lever 35 aligned in the vertical direction. The setting of the third function position III '"long" is done by a smaller axial displacement of the hand lever 35 in the Guide 40 relative to the functional position II '"butt position", but in the circumferential direction the hand lever 35 with respect to the basic position I a rotation of approx. Experiences 180 degrees. The hand lever 35 is "unlocked" from the first functional position I ' first placed in the horizontal position and after moving in axial direction again into the vertical position, as shown in the pictogram. Also in in this state, the end region of the Bowden cable 65 experiences a similar movement as in functional state II '.

Figures 3a and 3b illustrate using a section of an automatic train coupling 1 with means 20 to prevent unlocking when the automatic coupling 1 is broken in the area of the connection to the wagon 3 or rail vehicle when the rail vehicles 3 are separated by stretching the Bowden cable 33. This includes a Bracket 59, which is viewed in the installed position of the automatic coupling 1 in the direction of the theoretical connection _axis A _{V theoretically of} the rail vehicles 3 to be coupled, is designed to be flexible. For this purpose, the holder 59 is preferably fastened to the coupling head 4 and comprises an element 71 which forms a guide 70 for the Bowden cable 33. The element 71 forming the guide 70 is embodied, for example, in the form of a sheet metal part which is U-shaped in cross section. Other options are possible. The element 71 forming the guide 70 is connected via a flexible element 72, for example in the form of a hinge connection, to a holding element 73 which can be fastened to the coupling head. FIG. 3a shows the holder when the Bowden cable 33 is unstretched and FIG. 3b when the Bowden cable 33 is stretched. In the latter state, when the Bowden cable 33 is stretched, the holder 59 bends backwards until the actuating lever and the Bowden cable 33 are in the extended position, in particular that the guide 70 load-bearing element 71 by means of the flexible element 72. The actuating lever of the locking system, which is not yet in the "unlocking" functional position, can then no longer turn until the Bowden cable breaks. Unintentional unlocking is prevented.

FIGS. 4a-4c illustrate a possible one in a schematically simplified representation Execution of an automatic train coupling 1 in the three functional positions mentioned. The locking system 7 has the task of the profile of the two together to coupling coupling heads 4, each of which is assigned to a wagon 3 close and open the profile when uncoupling. According to FIG. 4, this includes a bolt 15, a latch pawl 16 with a stop C, a pawl spring 17 and a locking lever 18 which acts on the bolt 15. In the dome-ready position According to Figure 4a, the bolt 15 of the bolt system 7 is usually in the coupling head 4 pushed back to make room for a mixed pull coupling, not shown here to accomplish. During the coupling process, the bolt 15 is then pushed forward. The coupling center, that is, the coupling head 4 is located in front of the Page buffer level E. The dome-ready position is determined by an arrangement of Coupling head 4 and hinge pin 8 determined to each other, which by a relative movement can be changed between coupling head 4 and coupling arm 10 and describes a first limit position. A spacer 19 of the automatic changeover device 13 has not come up in this position. The latch 15 is pushed back to its rear position and a locking pawl 16 coupled to it is actuated by a pedal 21 pushed up. During the coupling process, the claw does not press in this figure Mating clutch shown, that is, the coupling profile 5 of the coupling head 4th the counter clutch, the pedal 21 and tensioned a storage spring 22 and an intermediate spring 23. The storage spring 22 is supported on the coupling head 4 in the pedal 21, which is rotatably mounted on the coupling head 4. The intermediate spring 23 is arranged between bolt system 7 and pedal 21. This acts on the locking lever 18, which then the bolt 15 in the direction of the connecting axis to Coupling profile 5 presses. A further advance of the bolt 15 is not possible because this is opposed by the small claw of the counter coupling introduced. The standard handle 16 is brought up to the stop C and cannot occur. By the pivotable locking lever 18, a slide 24 is released and by a Return spring 25 pulled. The pin of the spacer 19 makes one Idle in the slide gate 26. In the coupled state in the functional position The two bars 15 of the coupling 1 and the counter coupling are then "long" according to FIG. 4b pushed fully into the profile 5. The latch 16 is before the stop C collapsed and the bolt 15 is secured. The return spring 25 pulls on the slide 24 and presses on the spacer 19 via a pin D. This cannot occur because it is blocked by the contact point E on the coupling arm 10. Out For reasons of simplification, the individual elements are only for one of the two with one another to coupling automatic train couplings 1 shown. How it works the complementary coupling, that is, the counter-coupling, is carried out analogously.

The automatic changeover 13 serves to set the functional positions "long" or "short". The shortening is realized by the spacer 19, which is between the coupling head 4 and the coupling arm 10. Other options are possible. The functional sequence can be described as follows:
When the vehicles 3 are pressed on, the coupling head 4 is pressed back onto the coupling arm 10 and opens the space for the spacer 19. It can now occur. The automatic pull coupling 1 is thus brought into the "short" functional position, as shown in FIG. 4c. To unlock the spacer 19 is pulled out via the pin D via the actuator 2. When moving on, the bolt 15 is withdrawn from the profile. This is done in that the contact point F of the slide 24 pivots the locking lever 18 over the contacts G by H, thereby lifting the locking pawl 16 and withdrawing the locking bar 15 via the pin K. The latch pawl 16 hooks behind the stop C and secures the latch 15 against unintentional recoupling.

After releasing the actuation, the slide 24 is opened by the return spring 25 and the locking lever 18 is pulled forward by the intermediate spring 22 to the pin B, which would complete the unlocking. Then press to separate the vehicles the support 12 the automatic train coupling 1 back into the functional position "long" as shown in Figure 4b. Until the functional position "long" is reached the coupling profiles remain fully engaged for the time being. When moving further apart separate the coupling heads 4 and the storage spring 22 relaxes and pushes the pedal 21 to the front position. The pedal 21 unhooks the latch 16. The pedal is then also used to separate the coupling heads 4 the second or the counter clutch pressed forward by the storage spring there. The spacer 19 is pulled out via the locking lever 18 and the slide 24 and pushed back by the locking lever 18 of the locking bar 15 after the Bolt lever 18 has raised the latch pawl 16. The coupling head 4 is by the Support advanced to the long position. An unwanted reconnection is not more possible because the couplings are already separated too far. After the full Separation then turns the pedal further and pushes the latch 16 and the latch 15 back. Both clutches are then in the dome-ready position again.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

automatic train coupling

2

actuator

3

Rail vehicle or wagon

4

coupling head

5

coupling profile

6

centering

7

control system

8th

hinge pins

9

mainspring

10

coupling arm

11

form spring

12

Support device

13

diverter

14

Actuation system for the automatic changeover

15

bars

16

locking detent

17

pawl spring

18

locking lever

19

spacer

20

Automatic unlocking device for broken automatic Coupling in the area of the connection to the wagon or Rail vehicle when separating the rail vehicles Extension of the Bowden cable

21

pedal

22

storage spring

23

between spring

24

pusher

25

return spring

26

slide backdrop

30

actuator

31

Means for transmitting the operating force; transmission means

32

flexible transmission elements for tensile and compressive forces

33

Bowden

34

actuator

35

hand lever

36

Transmission and conversion system

40

guide

41

vulnerable part

42

Handle

43

extended section of the hand lever

44

scenery

45

groove

46

pen

47

Starting area of the tour

48

Leg spring

49

first section

50

second section

51

joint

52

lever

53

storage

54

longitudinal guide

55

longitudinal bore

56

pen

57a, 57b

Side wall

58

U-shaped profile element

59

bracket

60

Bowdenzugaußenhülle

61

ball joint

62

scenery

63

longitudinal guide

64

pen

65

Area of the Bowden cable

66

setting device

67

wire-like element

68

longitudinal bore

69

Means for transferring or converting by means of the hand lever selected functional position on the on the control device the automatic changeover and / or the locking system Bowden cable; "other resources"

70

guide

71

a guide 70 supporting element

72

flexible element

73

retaining element

74

spring means

75

first end region of the spring device

76

second end region of the spring device

77

linkage

78

said members

Claims (27)

1. Actuating device (2) for an automatic length adjuster (13) and/or a locking system (7) for an automatic train coupler, particularly for the application on rail vehicles (3);

   1.1 comprising an actuating means (30) for at least indirect generation of an actuating force for setting the following selectable functional positions (I', II', III')

   unlocking

   long position

   impact position

   of said coupler (1);

   1.2 transmission means (31) for transmitting the actuating force from said actuating means (30) to said automatic length adjuster (13) and said locking system (7);

   1.3 with said transmission means (31) comprising at least one transmitting element (32) of flexible design in terms of its manoeuvrability on the vehicle.
2. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 1, characterised in that said transmitting element (32) is articulated on an adjusting means (66) of said automatic length adjuster (13) and/or said locking system (7) and that the transmittable actuating force causes a pivoting and/or shifting movement of said adjusting means (66) that is operatively connected to further elements of said automatic length adjuster (13) and/or said locking system (7).
3. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 1 or 2, characterised by the following features:

   3.1 said actuating means (30) comprises at least one actuating element (34) that is variable in terms of its position for pre-selection of said functional positions (I', II', III') of the coupler (1) to be set;

   3.2 said transmission means (31) comprise further means (69) for transmitting and/or converting the forces on said transmitting element (32), which are applied on said actuating element (34) for pre-selection of said functional positions (I', II', III').
4. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 3, characterised by the following features:

   4.1 said actuating element (34) is configured as actuating lever (35) supported for rotation and displaceable in an axial direction, which can be carried into at least three positions (I, II, III);

   4.2 said actuating lever (35) comprises a region (42) adapted for engagement for manual operation;

   4.3 said positions (I, II, III) of said actuating lever (35) characterise the functional positions (I', II', III') of said coupler (1).
5. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 4, characterised by the following features:

   5.1 said actuating element (34) comprises an extended sub-region (43) that is supported for rotation in a guide (40);

   5.2 said extended sub-region (43) or said guide (40) comprise a slide (44) that cooperates with at least one projection (46) disposed in stationary position on said guide (40) or said extended sub-region (43);

   5.3 said slide (44) is so configured that, starting out from an original position, said functional positions (I', II', III') of said coupler (1) are set by rotation and/or axial displacement of said manual lever (35).
6. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 5, characterised in that said original position of said manual lever (35) corresponds to the position in one of said pre-selectable functional positions (I', II', III').
7. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 6, characterised by the following features:

   7.1 said second functional position (II') is characterised by a maximum axial displacement possible of said actuating element (34) in said guide (40) and a rotating movement of said region (42) adapted for manual engagement in the original position through 90° relative to a vertical position of said region (42) adapted for manual engagement;

   7.2 the third functional position (II') is characterised by a slighter axial displacement of said actuating element (34) in said guide (40) relative to said second functional position (II') and by a rotating movement of said region (42) adapted for manual engagement through 180° relative to said original position.
8. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 3 to 7, characterised in that said further means (69) are configured as means (69) for conversion of one parameter that is at least indirectly characteristic of the desired functional position (I', II', III') of said coupler (1), which is to be set, with said parameter being specifiable by means of said actuating element (34), into a corresponding conversion distance and/or a force on said transmitting element (32).
9. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 8, characterised by the following features:

   9.1 said means (69) for conversion of a parameter at least indirectly characteristic of the desired functional position (I', II', III') of said coupler (1), which is to be set, with said parameter being specifiable by means of said actuating element (34), into a corresponding conversion distance and/or a force on said transmitting element (32), comprise a lever means supported for rotation and including at least one lever (52) on which said transmitting element (32) is articulated;

   9.2 said lever (52) comprises a guide (54) that cooperates with a projection (56) on said actuating element (34).
10. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 9, characterised in that the articulation of said transmitting element (32) on said lever (52) is realised between said rotatable support of said lever means and said guide (54) on said lever (52).
11. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 1 to 10, characterised by the following features:

    11.1 said transmitting element comprises a linkage including a plurality of individual elements coupled to each other;

    11.2 said individual elements are joined to each other by articulations.
12. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 1 to 10, characterised in that at least one sub-region of said transmitting element (32) is flexible.
13. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 1 to 10, characterised by the following features:

    13.1 said transmitting element (32) is configured as Bowden control cable (33);

    13.2 said Bowden control cable (32) is configured at least for the transmission of traction forces.
14. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 13, characterised in that said Bowden control cable (33) is designed for transferring traction and compressive forces.
15. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 13 or 14, characterised by the following features:

    15.1 said Bowden control cable (33) comprises an exterior Bowden control cable sheathing (60);

    15.2 means are provided for guiding, substantially in parallel, a terminal region (65) of said Bowden control cable (33) and said exterior Bowden control cable sheathing (60), which is articulated on said lever means, in this region.
16. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 15, characterised by the following features:

    16.1 said means for guiding, substantially in parallel, a terminal region (65) of said Bowden control cable (33) and said Bowden control cable sheathing (60), which region is articulated to said lever means, comprise an element supporting a guide (63);

    16.2 said guide (63) cooperates with a projection (64) disposed in stationary relationship on said lever means, with said element supporting said guide (63) being mobile;

    16.3 said exterior Bowden control cable sheathing (60) is supported in at least one ball-and-socket joint (6 1 ).
17. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 3 to 16, characterised in that said actuating means (30) or said actuating element (34), respectively, and said further means (69) and/or said transmitting element (32) are supported in a common carrier element.
18. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 17, characterised in that said common carrier element is a U-shaped profiled element (58) whose lateral surfaces (57a, 57b) constitute at least the guide (40) for said actuating element (34).
19. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 12 to 14, characterised in that means (20) are provided to prevent unlocking in the case of a broken coupler (1) in the region of the connection to the car or the rail vehicle (3), respectively, when the rail vehicles are separated by extension of said transmitting element.
20. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 19, characterised by the following features:

    20.1 said means (20) for preventing unlocking in the case of a broken automatic coupler (1) in the region of the connection to the car or the rail vehicle (3), respectively, when the rail vehicles are separated by extension of said transmitting element, comprise a mount (59);

    20.2 said mount (59) is adapted for fastening on the coupler head (4) of the automatic train coupler (1) and presents a flexible design, seen in the mounted position of the automatic train coupler (1) in the direction of the theoretic connecting axis A_Vtheoretisch of the rail vehicles (3) to be coupled to each other.
21. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 21, characterised by the following features:

    21.1 said mount (59) includes an element (71) forming a guide (70) for said transmitting element;

    21.2 said element (71) forming the guide (70) is connected via a flexible element (72) to a holding element (73) adapted for fastening on the coupler head (4).
22. Actuating device (2) according to any of the Claims 1 to 21, characterised in that resetting means are provided for automatically resetting said actuating means (30) and/or said means (31) for transmission of the actuating force between said actuating means (30) and said locking system (7) and/or said automatic length adjuster (13).
23. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 22, characterised in that said resetting means comprise at least one spring means (74) adapted to be biased, which, seen in the mounted position in the region of a first end (75), is fastened on a stationary housing or frame element and is connected, at least indirectly, to said terminal region (65) of said Bowden control cable (33) in the region of a second end (76).
24. Actuating device (2) according to Claim 22, characterised in that said resetting means comprise a leg spring (48) disposed between said extended sub-region (43) and said guide (40).
25. Automatic coupler for rail vehicles, in particular automatic train coupler,

    25.1 comprising a locking system (7);

    25.2 comprising an automatic length adjuster (13);

    25.3 comprising an actuating means (2) for said locking system (7) and/or said automatic length adjuster (13) according to any of the Claims 1 to 22.
26. Automatic coupler for rail vehicles according to Claim 25, characterised in that said actuating means (30) is adapted for optional arrangement relative to said coupler (1).
27. Rail vehicle including an automatic train coupler (1) according to any of the Claims 25 or 26.

Images