EP2829455B1 - Coupling head for a rail-guided vehicle, in particular railway vehicle, automatic coupling with such a coupling head and method for coupling state detection - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a coupling head for a track-guided vehicle, in particular rail vehicle, in detail with the features of the preamble of claim 1. The invention further relates to an automatic clutch with such a coupling head and a method for detecting a coupling state of such an automatic clutch.

Automatic couplings for rail vehicles with a coupling head with a Willison profile are already known in various designs from the prior art. The structure and operation of such a coupling head is for example in the document DE 1 455 242 described. Such coupling heads serve the mechanical connection of two adjacent car bodies, such as a rail vehicle, and are characterized by a robust construction. The Willison profile is characterized by two clutch claws of different sizes, which form a coupling jaw describing a clutch pocket. Both coupling halves are identical and slide into each other. The mechanical connection is made via a latch mechanism. In order to be able to detect a coupling state, a mechanical indicator is provided on the coupling head or body, which can be viewed visually. The mechanical display comprises an indicator in the form of a lever element, which is mechanically coupled to one or more components of the locking mechanism and according to the coupling state in a certain position is movable.

Such a latch transmission with a display is for example from the document DE 1 808 167 A previously known. The required visual inspection is especially in train assemblies from a variety of to be coupled to individual car units disadvantageous because time-consuming. Automated uncoupling and engagement processes are made more difficult. The display options are also limited in terms of recognizability. As a rule, only the functional states "coupled" or "uncoupled" are indicated by the sticking out and not sticking out of the housing of the coupling. Intermediate positions are not recognizable or can only be realized with additional constructive effort.

The invention is therefore an object of the invention to provide a coupling head and a coupling in which a detection of the coupling state is easy and with high security quickly and without errors feasible. The solution according to the invention should be characterized by a low design and control engineering effort.

The solution according to the invention is characterized by the features of claims 1, 8 and 10. Advantageous embodiments are given in the subclaims.

• zwei entlang einer Kupplungslängsachse versetzt zu dieser angeordnete und eine Kupplungstasche ausbildende Kupplungsklauen
• ein in der Kupplungstasche angeordnetes Riegelgetriebe zum mechanischen Verbinden und Trennen von Kupplungskopf und Gegenkupplungskopf mit
• einem Riegelelement zum Verhindern des unbeabsichtigten Lösens der mechanischen Verbindung zwischen dem Kupplungskopf und einem mit dem Kupplungskopf gekuppelten Gegenkupplungskopf, wobei das Riegelelement von einer ersten Stellung (Sperrstellung) in welcher ein Lösen des Kupplungskopfes vom Gegenkupplungskopf verhindert wird, in eine zweite Position, in welcher ein Lösen zwischen dem Kupplungskopf und dem Gegenkupplungskopf ermöglicht wird, und umgekehrt verbringbar ist;
• einen am Kupplungskopf verschwenkbar gelagerten und mit einem Teilbereich in den Einflussbereich einer Gegenkupplung ragenden Riegelhalter zur Verhinderung des Herausbewegens des Riegelelementes aus der Kupplungstasche bei vorhandenem Gegenkupplungskopf, wobei der Riegelhalter von einer ersten Stellung frei von einem Zusammenwirken mit dem Gegenkupplungskopf in eine zweite Stellung, die durch das Zusammenwirken mit dem Gegenkupplungskopf charakterisiert ist, und umgekehrt verbringbar ist;
• einem Sperr- und Lösemechanismus zur Ver- und Entriegelung des Riegelelementes in der ersten Stellung;

dadurch gekennzeichnet:

• dass eine Vorrichtung zur Erfassung des Kuppelzustandes vorgesehen ist, umfassend eine erste Einrichtung zur Erfassung wenigstens einer, zumindest eine Stellung des Riegelhalters wenigstens mittelbar beschreibenden Größe und eine zweite Einrichtung zur Erfassung wenigstens einer, zumindest eine Stellung des Riegelelementes wenigstens mittelbar beschreibenden Größe, wobei die erste und zweite Einrichtung am oder im Kupplungskopf integriert angeordnet sind.

A coupling head for a track-guided vehicle for forming a mechanical connection with a matching mating coupling head, wherein the coupling head extends along a coupling longitudinal axis and comprises:

• two along a coupling longitudinal axis offset from this arranged and a clutch pocket forming coupling claws
• a arranged in the clutch pocket locking gear for mechanically connecting and disconnecting the coupling head and counter-coupling head with
• a locking element for preventing unintentional release of the mechanical connection between the coupling head and a mating coupling head coupled to the coupling head, wherein the locking element from a first position (locking position) in which a release of the coupling head is prevented by the counter-coupling head, in a second position in which a release between the coupling head and the counter-coupling head is enabled, and vice versa be brought about;
• a bolt holder pivotally mounted on the coupling head and projecting with a portion in the sphere of influence of a mating coupling to prevent the moving out of the locking element from the coupling pocket with existing mating head, the bolt holder from a first position free from cooperation with the mating coupling head in a second position by the interaction with the counter-coupling head is characterized, and vice versa be brought about;
• a locking and releasing mechanism for locking and unlocking the locking element in the first position;

characterized:

• in that a device for detecting the coupling state is provided, comprising a first device for detecting at least one, at least one position of the bolt holder at least indirectly descriptive size and a second means for detecting at least one, at least one position of the locking element at least indirectly descriptive size, wherein the first and second means are arranged integrated on or in the coupling head.

A coupling consists of two coupling halves which can be brought into operative connection with one another, the individual coupling half having a coupling head which carries or forms a coupling profile. The coupling profile is preferably of the Willison type. This includes two different sized and offset in the horizontal plane to Clutch longitudinal axis arranged claws, which form a in the vertical direction from the top to the bottom of the coupling head in the installed position extending clutch pocket for receiving the coupling profile of the counter-coupling head.

A dome state describes the characterized by the position of the individual components of the coupling head operating states in the interaction of two coupling heads - a coupling head and a counter-coupling head.

Each coupling state is defined by a defined functional position of the respective individual components - bar or bar holder. In this case, with respect to one or more dome states also overlap, that is, one or more dome states may be characterized by the same positions of a component.

• Kuppelzustand "kuppelbereit"
• Kuppelzustand "gekuppelt"
• Kuppelzustand "entkuppelt"

In detail, at least the following dome states are distinguished:

• Dome state "ready to dock"
• Coupled state "coupled"
• Coupling state "uncoupled"

The coupling state "ready to be coupled" is characterized by the alignment and sliding of the individual, to be coupled coupling heads.

The coupled state "coupled" is characterized by the interlocking of the coupling profiles and mechanical connection via a locking gear.

The coupling state "uncoupled" is characterized by the interlocking of the coupling profiles and mechanical separation by unlocking the locking gear.

"Position" is understood to mean a specifically defined spatial position of a single component of the locking mechanism in the clutch pocket and / or in relation to the counter-coupling head. These can be end positions or intermediate positions that can be captured at least for a limited time.

Detection of a variable describing a state or process involves the detection, detection, detection and optionally transformation, storage and / or transmission of the information. There are no restrictions regarding the type of the selected transmission path.

Under a, at least one position of the bolt holder or locking element at least indirectly descriptive size is understood a quantitative or qualitative measure that either directly characterizes a defined position of a component or indirectly describes this, for example, via a functional dependence or can be derived in any other way from this ,

Locking and unlocking devices can be designed in various ways. These can be formed for example by an effective between locking element and latch holder pawl and a locking shaft with cams are formed for unlocking, which is effective on the pawl and thus releases the locking element in terms of its mobility.

It has been recognized that an easily realizable recognition of a defined coupling state from the respective position of individual components of the locking mechanism, which characterize a particular coupling state with respect to the functions to be performed in these positions, can take place. Integrated by the detection possibility directly on or in the coupling head, can be dispensed with the additional mechanical and operated via the locking mechanism mechanical display device with visual recognition. The quantities recorded may vary depending on the design of the facilities be forwarded wirelessly or via an electrical connection. The detection of the dome state can be done simultaneously and at larger Zugverbänden simultaneously, which allows automated engagement and Auskuppelvorgänge.

The advantage of the invention is thus in the automated detection of the dome state, for example, from the cab of a locomotive or Rangierfahrzeuges. In combination with a remote-controlled uncoupling process by a decoupling cylinder, new perspectives for the automated coupling process in the field of freight wagons and locomotives in shunting and train formation arise.

The invention thus relates to a coupling head of an automatic central buffer coupling of the type Willison-SA-3, in particular the automatic monitoring of the coupling closure position with automatic detection of the counter-coupling and detection of the coupled and uncoupled state by querying the position of the closure components bolt and bolt holder by appropriately arranged sensors or switch. The detection of the coupled state is independent of the type, provided that the coupling profile of the counter-coupling is designed according to the requirements de UIC 523 or GOST 21447-75.

Central buffer couplings with type Willison coupling heads are used for mechanically connecting two adjacent car bodies, for example a rail vehicle, and are distinguished by their robust construction, so that such coupling heads are frequently used in freight wagon clutches and locomotives. The structure and operation of a coupling head type Willison are, for example, in the document DE 1 455 242 A described.

The number of positions of the individual components of the locking gear and / or the type of size to be detected depends on the design of the respective detection device.

In a first embodiment, the first device for detecting at least one, at least one position of the latch holder at least indirectly descriptive size is arranged and designed to be suitable to detect only a first or second position of the latch holder. In this case, simple binary sensors can be used, which only generate a signal in one of the coupling states. False indications of non-functioning of the respective facilities can not be excluded.

In a second embodiment, both positions are detected so that dome states can be reliably detected and assigned.

By analogy, the statements made in advance also apply to the second device for detecting at least one variable, at least one position of the locking element, which at least indirectly describes its size and its first and second positions.

• an einem am Kupplungskopf integral ausgebildeten und das Riegelgetriebe aufnehmenden Riegelgehäuse;
• am Riegelelement
• am Riegelhalter

The first device for detecting at least one, at least one position of the bolt holder at least indirectly descriptive size and the second means for detecting at least one, at least one position of the locking element at least indirectly descriptive size is arranged in an advantageous embodiment of at least one element of the following group:

• on an integrally formed on the coupling head and the locking gear receiving latch housing;
• on the locking element
• on the bolt holder

The former possibility offers the advantage of retrofitting and free placement within the coupling head.
The second and third possibility requires corresponding reference surfaces or points on the coupling head.

• berührungsloser Sensor
• Berührungssensor
• Binärsensor, insbesondere taktiler Sensor, wie Taster oder Schalter
  • elektromechanischer Sensor
  • elektrischer Sensor
• induktiver Sensor
• optischer Sensor

In an advantageous embodiment, the first means for detecting at least one, at least one position of the bolt holder at least indirectly descriptive size and / or the second means for detecting at least one, at least one position of the locking element at least indirectly descriptive size as an element of at least one of the following Subgroup executed:

• non-contact sensor
• touch sensor
• Binary sensor, in particular tactile sensor, such as buttons or switches
  • electromechanical sensor
  • electrical sensor
• inductive sensor
• optical sensor

Designs with binary sensors offer the advantage of a simple evaluation of the signal generated with these. It is only the detection of two states possible.

In an advantageous embodiment, non-contact sensors are used for reasons of wear.

As at least indirectly the size describing the respective position, for example, a distance between a reference plane and a component, a position, a pressure, a change of an electric or magnetic field.

• einer Steuereinrichtung
• einer übergeordneten Baueinheit/Aggregat zugeordneten Steuereinheit und mit einer Einrichtung zur Informationswiedergabe gekoppelt ist.

In an advantageous development, the device comprises an evaluation device, wherein the first device for detecting at least one, at least one position of the latch holder at least indirectly descriptive size and a second means for detecting at least one, at least one position of the locking element at least indirectly descriptive size individually or in series tactile electromechanical sensors are coupled in series with the evaluation device and the evaluation device is part of at least one of the following devices:

• a control device
• a control unit associated with a higher-level structural unit / unit and is coupled to a device for reproducing information.

The inventive design of a coupling head is particularly advantageous in an automatic coupling for a track-guided vehicle for forming a mechanical connection with a counter-coupling head suitable for the coupling head coupling profile.

• zwei entlang einer Kupplungslängsachse versetzt zu dieser angeordnete und eine Kupplungstasche bildende Kupplungsklauen
• ein in der Kupplungstasche angeordnetes Riegelgetriebe zum mechanischen Verbinden und Trennen von Kupplungskopf und Gegenkupplungskopf mit
• einem Riegelelement zum Verhindern des unbeabsichtigten Lösens der mechanischen Verbindung zwischen dem Kupplungskopf und einem mit dem Kupplungskopf gekuppelten Gegenkupplungskopf, wobei das Riegelelement von einer ersten Stellung (Sperrstellung) in welcher ein Lösen des Kupplungskopfes vom Gegenkupplungskopf verhindert wird, in eine zweite Position, in welcher ein Lösen zwischen dem Kupplungskopf und dem Gegenkupplungskopf ermöglicht wird, und umgekehrt verbringbar ist;
• einen am Kupplungskopf verschwenkbar gelagerten und mit einem Teilbereich in den Einflussbereich einer Gegenkupplung ragenden Riegelhalter zur Verhinderung des Herausbewegens des Riegelelementes aus der Kupplungstasche bei vorhandenem Gegenkupplungskopf, wobei der Riegelhalter von einer ersten Stellung frei von einem Zusammenwirken mit dem Gegenkupplungskopf in eine zweite Stellung, die durch das Zusammenwirken mit dem Gegenkupplungskopf charakterisiert ist, und umgekehrt verbringbar ist;
• einem Sperr- und Lösemechanismus zur Ver- und Entriegelung des Riegelelementes in der ersten Stellung;

ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die einzelnen Stellungen von Riegelelement und Riegelhalter zeitgleich erfasst werden, die erfassten Stellungen ausgewertet und einem Kuppelzustand zugeordnet werden.An inventive method for detecting a coupling state of an automatic coupling of a coupling head and a counter-coupling head, wherein the individual coupling head extends along a coupling longitudinal axis and comprises:

• two along a coupling longitudinal axis offset to this arranged and forming a clutch pocket clutch claws
• a arranged in the clutch pocket locking gear for mechanically connecting and disconnecting the coupling head and counter-coupling head with
• a locking element for preventing the unintentional release of the mechanical connection between the coupling head and a coupling head coupled to the coupling head, the locking element starting from a first position (blocking position) in which the coupling head is released from Counter-coupling head is prevented, in a second position in which a release between the coupling head and the counter-coupling head is made possible, and vice versa be brought about;
• a bolt holder pivotally mounted on the coupling head and projecting with a portion in the sphere of influence of a mating coupling to prevent the moving out of the locking element from the coupling pocket with existing mating head, the bolt holder from a first position free from cooperation with the mating coupling head in a second position by the interaction with the counter-coupling head is characterized, and vice versa be brought about;
• a locking and releasing mechanism for locking and unlocking the locking element in the first position;

Is characterized in that the individual positions of locking element and latch holder are detected at the same time, the detected positions are evaluated and assigned to a coupling state.

The derivation of the positions of the individual components of the locking gear allows a well-defined assignment of the dome states.

The position is detected directly or indirectly via the detection of physical quantities or characteristic quantities, from which the position can be derived.

• Die Figuren 1a - 1c verdeutlichen in schematisiert vereinfachter Darstellung den Grundaufbau und die Grundfunktion einer automatischen Kupplung mit einem Kupplungskopf vom Typ Willison in einer Draufsicht auf die Kupplungslängsachse;
• die Figur 2 zeigt in schematisiert vereinfachter Darstellung anhand einer Ansicht von rechts in einem Teilschnitt durch den Kupplungskörper die Anordnung einer Kuppelzustandserfassungsvorrichtung;
• die Figur 3a verdeutlicht einen Kupplungskopf gemäß Figur 2 mit einem Riegelgetriebe im Zustand "kuppelbereit";
• die Figur 3b verdeutlicht einen Kupplungskopf gemäß Figur 2 mit einem Riegelgetriebe im Kuppelzustand "gekuppelt";
• die Figur 3c verdeutlicht einen Kupplungskopf gemäß Figur 2 im Kuppelzustand "entkuppelt".

The solution according to the invention is explained below with reference to figures. It details the following:

• The Figures 1a - 1c illustrate in a schematic simplified representation of the basic structure and the basic function of an automatic clutch with a Coupling head type Willison in a plan view of the coupling longitudinal axis;
• the FIG. 2 shows in schematic simplified representation based on a view from the right in a partial section through the coupling body, the arrangement of a coupling state detecting device;
• the FIG. 3a illustrates a coupling head according to FIG. 2 with a locking gear in the state "ready to be coupled";
• the FIG. 3b illustrates a coupling head according to FIG. 2 with a locking gear in the coupled state "coupled";
• the Figure 3c illustrates a coupling head according to FIG. 2 in the dome state "uncoupled".

The FIG. 1 illustrates in schematic highly simplified representation of the basic structure and the basic function of an automatic clutch 1, comprising two coupling halves 2, the coupling body 3 are designed and arranged to each other such that it produces a mechanical connection between two rail vehicles. The coupling is a coupling with a Willison coupling profile, such as in DE 1 455 242 described.

One coupling half 2 is brought into engagement with the other coupling half as a mating coupling half. This is designated 2 '. Since the coupling halves are identically constructed, the following explanation refers to the coupling half 2. Shown is only the mutually engageable region of the two coupling halves 2 in a plan view of these along the coupling longitudinal axis LA and thus to a horizontal plane.

The coupling body 3 has in the end-side end region, the coupling head 4, two with respect to the coupling longitudinal axis LA offset differently sized jaws 5 and 6. These include a clutch pocket 7, which is designed to extend in the vertical direction from the top to the bottom of the coupling body 3.

The FIG. 1a shows the two coupling halves 2 during emergence. The centering of the coupling heads 4 takes place by sliding on outer inclined surfaces. The production of the mechanical connection via a locking gear 9, which is arranged in the coupling pocket 7 a coupling half 2 and a coupling body 3. The locking mechanism 9 comprises at least one locking element 10, which is viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis LA in the coupling head 4 pivoted back to this stored.

The Figures 1b and 1c illustrate the process steps for setting the coupling state "coupled". The FIG. 1b illustrates the operation of the locking gear 9 and the Figure 1c represents the two coupling heads 4 in the connected, that is coupled state. In this, the locking elements 10 are deflected back in their original position and are blocked by a locking mechanism 11, which is also part of the locking gear. In this functional condition, tensile and compressive forces are transmitted. Not shown is the functional state "uncoupled", which is characterized by the mechanical separation of the two coupling halves 2 by unlocking the locking gear 9. In this coupling state, not shown, both coupling halves 2 are still in the same position, that is, orientation, according to Figure 1c to each other, but are already separated mechanically. In order to know the individual dome states, prior art mechanical display devices coupled to the latch gear have been used. A condition detection was only possible via the visual inspection on the respective coupling body. According to the invention is a solution to this problem Coupling state detection device 12 provided on the coupling head 4 or integrated therein.

The FIG. 2 illustrates in a view from the right along the coupling longitudinal axis LA with partial section in the region of the coupling body an advantageous embodiment of a coupling state detection device 12 and its arrangement on the coupling body 3. The locking mechanism 9 is in addition to the bolt 10 of a latch holder 13, the locking and release mechanism 11 and a Latch shaft 14. The latch 10 is used when the counter profile of the production of the mechanical connection. This is rotatably mounted in the latch housing 15. The latch housing 15 is formed by a portion of the coupling body 3. The function of the bolt holder 13 is to prevent unintentional unscrewing of the bolt 10 in the case of the presence of a counter-coupling or a counter-coupling head. The locking mechanism 11 prevents unintentional unscrewing by supporting on a locking surface of the bolt holder 13. The locking mechanism 11 is mounted on the locking element 10 and is supported on a locking surface of the bolt holder 13 from. To release the locking mechanism 11, a locking shaft 14 is provided with cam 16, which is rotated manually or automatically for uncoupling and thus enables release of the locking mechanism 11.

According to the invention, the state recognition of the clutch takes place by detecting at least one, at least one position of the components of the locking gear 9, in particular the bolt holder 13 and the bolt 10, at least indirectly characterizing size. By the targeted detection of the positions of these two functional components to each other, it is possible to reliably detect the dome state and to decide the individual dome states safely. Essentially, as already mentioned, three dome states are distinguished. A first coupling state, which is also referred to as "ready to be coupled", is characterized in that the two coupling halves are aligned with each other. The second coupling state "coupled" is due to the interlocking of the Coupling heads and the mechanical connection characterized, while the third coupling state "uncoupled" by the alignment to each other, but mechanical separation is characterized.

The first device 17 for detecting at least one, at least one position of the latch holder 13 at least indirectly characterizing size is arranged on the latch housing 15 in a region which is parallel to the pivoting region of the latch holder 13 and in a first position of the latch holder 13, free from interaction with a counter-coupling lies in the overlapping area, in a second position, characterized by the interaction with the counter-coupling head is outside. By analogy, this also applies to the assignment of the device 18 for detecting at least one, a the position of the bolt at least indirectly characterizing size. Again, at least one of the functional positions can be detected in a corresponding manner.

The position of the preferably designed as sensors / switches means 17, 18 is preferably fixed laterally on the latch housing 15 of the coupling body 4, so that a modular cultivation is also subsequently possible in a simple manner. To detect the closure position and detection of the counter-coupling, in particular of the counter-coupling head 4, 2 sensors are mounted on the previously described position. It detects the position of the bolt holder 13 and the locking element 10th

The sensor / switch 17 detects the position of the bolt holder 13 and thus detects the counter-coupling. The sensor / switch 18 detects the position of the latch position in uncoupled or coupled position. The circuit can be connected, for example, as a series circuit in a coupling body arranged on the terminal box and then led to the vehicle. A direct connection of each switch to the vehicle control is also possible. The properly coupled state is displayed, for example, when both switches signal.

The FIGS. 3a-3c illustrate in a schematic simplified representation of an embodiment of an automatic clutch according to FIG. 2 the arrangement and orientation of the functional elements of the locking gear 9 in the individual dome states to each other and the associated operation of the devices 17 and 18th

The FIG. 3a clarifies the locking gear 9 in the cut coupling head in the coupling position, that is in the position "ready for coupling". The locking element or the bolt 10 is in the illustrated case, for example, a base body, which closes a lower boundary with subsequent rolling body and a holding tooth. The front end face forms a bevelled abutting surface. In the dome standby position, the locking element 10, which can be pivoted in the longitudinal direction into the coupling head 4, lies with its lower limit and the rolling body at the bottom of the coupling head 4 and is held therein by a holding tooth projecting in an opening. The beveled abutment surface projects in front of a coupling plane and thus lies within the influence of a mating coupling head of a vehicle to be coupled. The bolt holder 13 is rotated under the influence of gravity in the contour. The locking mechanism 11 in the form of a pawl is mounted on the locking element 10 and can move freely. The in addition to the locking element 10 of a bolt in the coupling head and movable in the longitudinal direction in the coupling head 4 swivel bolt holder 13 is under the influence of his, projecting into the interior of the coupling head 4 parts in the Kuppelbereitschaftslage as in the FIG. 3a shown, pivoted, with its front provided with inclined surfaces portion projects into the sphere of influence of a mating coupling head of a mating coupling of a vehicle to be coupled. Visible here is the location assignment of the detection devices 17 and 18, which recognize depending on the design of this a Lagebedeckung by the bolt holder 13 and the locking element 10 or not.

The FIG. 3b clarifies the location assignment of the individual components of the locking gear 10 after the coupling process, that is in the functional state "coupled". In this case, the locking element 10 is tilted during the coupling process by the small tooth of the counter-coupling in the coupling body 3 and then moves the bolt holder 13 in the coupled position. The locking element 10 falls forward again, the bolt holder 13 is then held by the counter-coupling and locks the bolt and prevents further rotation. The locking mechanism 9 is locked in this state and allows the mechanical coupling between the coupling halves to be coupled together.

The arrangement of the devices 17 and 18 on the latch housing 15 is carried out by way of example such that in the functional state "coupled" both devices are moved out of the coverage area of the individual devices and thus a signal is generated at both devices.

Generally when coupling the two coupling heads 4 at the beginning of the coupling process, the small claw of a counter-coupling head not shown in the lying between the two jaws, formed by a clutch pocket 7, enter the coupling jaw and first the locking element 10 and later the bolt holder 13 at its with the counter-coupling swiveling cooperating sub-area or tilting in the longitudinal direction in the coupling head 4 until the corresponding end positions are reached. In this position, the bolt locks the pawl.

The Figure 3c illustrates the coupling state "uncoupled". It is raised by turning the locking shaft 14 of the cam of the pawl and the Locked position of the locking element 10 repealed. By further rotation of the locking shaft 14 then tilts the cam and thereby the bolt in the latch housing 15. The cam 16 is blocked during over-rotation by the still held by the counter-coupling latch holder 13, however. The locking element 10 is held on the coupling head 4 and the coupling heads can separate. In this functional state, the device 18 is covered by the bolt.

With regard to the arrangement and functioning of the individual devices, there are a large number of possibilities. The arrangement is closely related to the type chosen for the design of the sensor. According to a first embodiment, tactile sensors in the form of so-called mechanical position sensors can be used, for example, which serve to determine positions. In this case, according to a first embodiment, the position detection during movement of the bolt and the latch holder can be carried out in such a way that they are either moved out of the sphere of influence of a tactile sensor or moved into it in a single functional position. The movement of the organ of touch is transferred to contacts that open or close a circuit. Depending on the arrangement and assignment to the individual functional components, the opening or closing can be detected in different ways. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, however, non-contact sensors will be used. There are no restrictions on the specific application. In the simplest case, electromechanical sensors are used. These are preferably designed as tactile sensors and may be in the form of switches. These switches are positioned relative to the latch and the latch holder so that, when both signals are present, an evaluation and a reliable result with respect to the coupling state is possible.

For this purpose, FIG. 4 illustrates by way of example the detection of the individual signals via the individual devices 17 and 18, which are connected to a corresponding one Evaluation device 19 are coupled, which may be part of a control device and in response to the present signals is a manipulated variable Y for displaying the coupling state. For this purpose, the evaluation device 19 is connected to the means for detecting 17 and 18 signal transmitting. The coupling can be realized wirelessly or via connecting lines. Furthermore, the evaluation device is connected to an adjusting device 21 of a display device for the dome state. In the simplest case, this is a visual display device.

In this case, each of the devices can be coupled separately with the evaluation device. However, it is also conceivable to connect the individual sensors in series with the terminal box, which is already present on the coupling body.

When binary sensors are used, they can be arranged and operated such that they either generate a signal for the detection of a specific position or do not generate a signal. If the first device is positioned relative to the latch holder in such a way that it emits a signal "coupled" only in the coupling position, the arrangement range is such that no signal is produced in the functional position "ready to be coupled", but a signal is generated in the coupling position. In this case, a signal is always generated in the presence of a counter-coupling. The second device is arranged and positioned in this case so that only in the coupling position "coupled" a signal and in the dome-ready position, a signal are generated, while in the coupling position "uncoupled" no signal is generated. It can be concluded depending on the presence of both signals or only one signal and the type of signal to the respective coupling position. By analogy, the reverse connection, that is, the arrangement of the individual devices is such that both generate no signal in the coupling position "coupled", but in the other coupling positions "ready for coupling" and "uncoupled" a signal or no signal or vice versa is generated.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

automatic clutch

2

coupling half

3

clutch body

4

coupling head

5

claw

6

claw

7

clutch bag

8th

sloping surface

9

Riegel gear

10

locking element

11

locking mechanism

12

Dome-state detecting device

13

bolt holder

14

latch shaft

15

bolt housing

16

cam

17

Means for detecting at least one, at least one, the position of the bolt holder at least indirectly characterizing size

18

Means for detecting at least one, at least one, the position of the locking element at least indirectly characterizing size

19

evaluation

20

setting device

21

display device

Claims (11)

1. Coupling head (4) for a rail-guided vehicle for forming a mechanical connection with a corresponding coupling head of the same design, wherein the coupling head extends along a coupling longitudinal axis and has:

   - two coupling claws (5, 6) which are arranged along a coupling longitudinal axis, offset with respect thereto, and form a coupling pocket (7) ;

   - a bolt mechanism (9) which is arranged in the coupling pocket and has the purpose of mechanically connecting and disconnecting the coupling head and corresponding coupling head having

   - a bolt element (10) for preventing the unintended release of the mechanical connection between the coupling head and a corresponding coupling head which is coupled to the coupling head, wherein the bolt element can be moved from a first position (locking position) in which release of the coupling head from the corresponding coupling head is prevented, into a second position in which release between the coupling head and the corresponding coupling head is made possible, and vice versa;

   - a bolt holder (13) which is pivotably mounted on the coupling head and of which part a projects into the area of influence of a corresponding coupling and has the purpose of preventing the bolt element from moving out of the coupling pocket when the corresponding coupling head is present, wherein the bolt holder can be moved from a first position, free of interaction with the corresponding coupling head, into a second position which is characterized by interaction with the corresponding coupling head, and vice versa;

   - a locking and release mechanism (11) for locking and unlocking the bolt element in the first position;

   characterized:

   in that an apparatus (12) is provided for detecting the coupling state comprising a first device (17) for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt holder, and a second device (18) for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt element, wherein the first and second devices are arranged integrated on or in the coupling head.
2. Coupling head according to Claim 1,
   characterized
   in that the first device (17) for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt holder is arranged and designed in such a way that it is suitable for detecting at least the first and/or second position of the bolt holder.
3. Coupling head according to Claims 1 to 2,
   characterized
   in that the second device (18) for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt element is arranged and designed in such a way that it is suitable for detecting at least the first and/or second position of the bolt element.
4. Coupling head according to one of Claims 1 to 3,
   characterized
   in that the first device for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt holder and the second device for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt element are arranged on at least one element of the following group:

   - on a bolt housing (15) which is embodied integrally on the coupling head (4) and accommodates the bolt mechanism (9),

   - on the bolt element (10) and

   - on the bolt holder (13).
5. Coupling head according to one of Claims 1 to 4,
   characterized
   in that the first device for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt holder and/or the second device for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt element are embodied as an element composed of at least one of the following subgroups:

   - contactless sensor,

   - contact sensor

   - binary sensor, in particular tactile sensor, such as a push button key or switch

   - electromechanical sensor

   - electrical sensor

   - inductive sensor

   - optical sensor.
6. Coupling head according to one of Claims 1 to 5,
   characterized
   in that the first device for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt holder and/or the second device for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt element are embodied as an element from the following group, for detecting at least one of the variables mentioned below:

   - distance between a reference plane and a component

   - position

   - pressure and

   - change in an electrical or magnetic field.
7. Coupling head according to one of Claims 1 to 6,
   characterized
   in that the apparatus comprises an evaluation device, wherein the first device for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt holder and a second device for detecting at least one variable which at least indirectly describes at least one position of the bolt element are coupled, individually or with a series connection of tactile electromechanical sensors, in series with the evaluation device, and the evaluation device is a component of at least one of the following devices:

   - a control device,

   - a control unit assigned to a superordinate structural unit/assembly and is coupled to a device for playing back information.
8. Automatic coupling for a rail-guided vehicle having a coupling head according to one of Claims 1 to 7, for forming a mechanical connection to a corresponding coupling head with a coupling profile which is the same as that of the coupling head.
9. Automatic coupling for a rail-guided vehicle having a coupling head according to Claim 8,
   characterized
   in that the corresponding coupling head is embodied according to one of Claims 1 to 7.
10. Method for detecting a coupling state of an automatic coupling composed of a coupling head (4) and a corresponding coupling head, wherein the individual coupling head extends along a coupling longitudinal axis and has:

    - two coupling claws (5, 6) which are arranged along a coupling longitudinal axis, offset with respect thereto, and form a coupling pocket (7)

    - a bolt mechanism (9) which is arranged in the coupling pocket and has the purpose of mechanically connecting and disconnecting the coupling head and corresponding coupling head having

    - a bolt element (10) for preventing the unintended release of the mechanical connection between the coupling head and a corresponding coupling head which is coupled to the coupling head, wherein the bolt element can be moved from a first position (locking position) in which release of the coupling head from the corresponding coupling head is prevented, into a second position in which release between the coupling head and the corresponding coupling head is made possible, and vice versa;

    - a bolt holder (13) which is pivotably mounted on the coupling head and part of which projects into the area of influence of a corresponding coupling and has the purpose of preventing the bolt element from moving out of the coupling pocket when the corresponding coupling head is present, wherein the bolt holder can be moved from a first position, free of interaction with the corresponding coupling head, into a second position which is characterized by interaction with the corresponding coupling head, and vice versa;

    - a locking and release mechanism (11) for locking and unlocking the bolt element in the first position;

    characterized:

    in that the individual positions of the bolt element and bolt holder are detected simultaneously, and the detected positions are evaluated and assigned to a coupling state.
11. Method according to Claim 10,
    characterized
    in that the detection of the position is carried out directly or indirectly by means of the detection of physical variables or property variables from which the position can be derived.

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