EP3757055A1 - Raising platform - Google Patents

Abstract

A lifting platform for motor vehicles is described which enables an improved detection of a break in the support nut which connects a lifting device to a threaded spindle of the lifting platform.

Description

The present patent application relates to a lifting platform for motor vehicles and preferably a spindle-driven lifting platform, which is particularly preferably a column lifting platform. The lifting platform claimed here has, in particular, improved detection of a break in the supporting nut which connects a lifting device to a rotating spindle of the lifting platform.

Vehicles, such as passenger cars, are brought into a raised position by means of lifting platforms and support elements that are movably attached to the lifting platform in order to be able to carry out maintenance or repair work on the lifted vehicle. Since the work takes place below the lifted vehicle, safety mechanisms are required which, for example, in the case of a seldom breakage of the support nut of the lifting platform, reliably prevent the support elements or the lifted motor vehicle from falling. Furthermore, the break must also be made recognizable to the user in order to prevent further operation. A known securing mechanism includes, for example, in the case of spindle-driven vehicle lifting platforms, the provision of a locking nut or catch nut, which prevents the supporting elements or the like from falling off in the event of damage to the supporting nut (e.g. DE 20 2004 019 146 U1 ). The case of damage itself is then usually indicated indirectly with known lifting platforms. For example, in the event of damage, a mechanism is actuated that causes the system to run heavily in a defined lifting range and as a result of which the lifting platform indirectly indicates a fault.

In view of the situation described above, it would be desirable to provide a direct break detection of the support nut, which can be implemented inexpensively and with little structural complexity. It is therefore a technical problem to provide a lifting platform which has an improved support nut breakage detection.

The object is achieved by the subject matter according to the attached patent claims. Preferred further developments are described in particular in the dependent claims.

In particular, a lifting platform for motor vehicles is claimed which is preferably a column lifting platform with a driven threaded or lifting spindle. The lifting platform can comprise a (support) column which can rotatably support a threaded spindle or lifting spindle. The threaded spindle is preferably stored within the support column. The threaded spindle is particularly preferably rotated by a drive device which, among other things, may comprise a drive motor and a drive controller.

The claimed lifting platform can comprise one or more columns. 1-post, 2-post and 4-post lifts are particularly preferred here. However, other configurations are also intended to be part of this disclosure.

A support nut that can be in engagement with the threaded spindle can be arranged on the threaded spindle. The engagement can preferably be realized by a threaded connection; for example, the threaded spindle can have an external thread and the support nut a corresponding internal thread. By rotating the threaded spindle, the support nut on the threaded spindle can be moved along its longitudinal axis. Furthermore, a locking nut can be provided, which can be arranged offset to the support nut, preferably at a predetermined distance A1, in engagement with the threaded spindle; The locking nut is particularly preferably arranged in such a way that it runs with the supporting nut at the predetermined distance A1. The preset or set during assembly distance between the support nut and the safety nut is particularly preferably constant as long as the support nut is free of damage or defects. In the event of a defect, the distance between the support nut and the safety nut can change and in the event of a complete failure of the support nut, the distance, depending on the arrangement of the safety nut and the support nut, can become maximum or minimum. Particularly preferably, the distance between the two nuts can thus change gradually in the event of damage and in relation to the size of the damage to the support nut, so that only a complete failure of the support nut can minimize or maximize the distance between the two nuts. The end position of the support nut in the event of damage can preferably be defined by the position of the locking nut, which directly or indirectly stops the movement of the support nut in the event of damage.

Furthermore, the lifting platform can have a lifting device. The lifting device is preferably a lifting slide. This can be connected to the support nut and be designed to support or hold at least one support arm (for the vehicle mount). The connection between the support nut and the lifting device is preferably such that, in the event of a defect in the support nut, not only the distance between support nut and safety nut (or between edges, points or planes of the two components) is changed, but also the predetermined or during the Mounting preset distance A2 between the safety nut and a fixed point of the lifting device or the lifting device itself. Particularly preferably, the distance between the lifting device and the safety nut changes at least to the same extent as the distance between the supporting nut and the safety nut if the supporting nut is defective.

The lift can also include a support nut defect detection device, which can be set up to detect a defect in the support nut by changing the distance (e.g. triggered by a defect-related change in the distance between the support nut to which the lifting device is connected and the safety nut) between the lock nut (or a point or a plane of the lock nut) and the lifting device - or a predetermined (fixed) point on the lifting device.

In particular, the supporting nut defect detection device can be a distance detection device which may comprise at least two activating agents. The term “activation means” is intended in particular to indicate that these components of the distance detection device have a technical function in the activation of a defect detection or in the detection of a supporting nut defect. The “activation means” can alternatively also be referred to as “detection means” or “sub-elements of the distance detection device”.

The at least two activation means (more than two can also be provided) can be arranged in relation to one another in such a way that they can be used in the case of a defect-free support nut, i.e. in an initial state in which the support nut has no defect, are in contact with one another or in engagement with one another. In a state in which the support nut has a defect, the activation means can be arranged separately from one another. The separation can preferably be caused by a relative movement of the activating means to one another, the relative movement of the activating means particularly preferably being caused or initiated by the supporting nut defect. The relative movement is particularly preferably carried out due to the change in the distance between the lifting carriage and the locking nut.

The advantage of the lifting platform described above is that the support nut defect detection device can be implemented with structurally less complex means and direct damage indication is made possible, since a support nut defect can be detected simply by separating the activation means.

The above-mentioned components of the lifting platform can each be provided simply or in majority in the lifting platform. For example, the claimed lifting platform can have one or more support columns, each support column preferably being able to have a threaded spindle, a support and safety nut and a distance detection device. But it is also possible that each Support column can have more than one of at least one of the aforementioned components. The number of support arms per support column can also be variable and comprise at least one support arm and more than one support arm.

Furthermore, the supporting nut defect detection device can have the distance detection device and a supporting nut defect detection sensor. The supporting nut defect detection sensor can be set up in such a way that it can be activated by a component of the distance detection device. The activation of the supporting nut defect detection sensor can particularly preferably take place when the distance detection device detects an increase in the distance between the locking nut and the lifting device on the basis of a separation of the activation means from one another. As already explained above, in the event of a defect there is a change in the distance between the support nut and the safety nut, which can lead to a detectable increase in the distance between the lifting device and the safety nut due to the fixed connection between the lifting device and the supporting nut.

The supporting nut defect detection device thus enables a direct detection of a supporting nut defect, e.g. a break, with few and less complex components.

Furthermore, the second activation means can be set up to transition into a position (hereinafter also referred to as the second position) in the separated state of the activation means, in which the supporting nut defect detection sensor can be activated by the second activation means. The transition from an initial position, in which the activation means are in contact with one another, to a second predefined position can also enable clear and rapid defect detection.

Furthermore, the lifting device and the locking nut can be arranged in a defect-free state of the support nut at a predetermined distance A2 from one another and furthermore in such a way that they have a Can perform relative movement to one another, which particularly preferably leads to an increase in the distance A2. The distance detection device can preferably detect this increase in the predetermined distance between the locking nut and the lifting device and particularly preferably if the increase goes beyond a limit value for this distance A2.

The technical function explained above does not trigger a defect detection with every damage or defect event of the support nut, but only with a defect that exceeds a predetermined severity or size. This selection or decision is made on the basis of the limit value for the distance detection. The limit value can then be set in such a way that, for example, slight wear and tear on the support nut does not yet trigger a defect detection. This ensures that security-relevant damage can be reliably detected and reported, while minor signs of wear that are not critical for security do not lead to a user-unfriendly accumulation of detection reports.

Particularly preferably, the distance detection device can detect an increase beyond the limit value for the distance A2 in that the activation means are in contact with one another at the predetermined distance A2 between the locking nut and the lifting device and are separated from one another when the limit value is exceeded. This can be set, for example, by means of the contact length between the two activation means. The limit value detection function can thus in turn be provided with less complex technical means; and without e.g. expensive sensors or the like. For measuring distance variables or the like. Would be necessary.

For example, the distance detection device can have a first and a second activation means which, at a distance between the locking nut and the lifting device, up to a limit value for this distance can be connected and which can be separated from each other when this limit value for the distance between the locking nut and the lifting device is exceeded. For example, the two activating means can be connected to one another below the limit value in that a section of one activating means engages or is at least in contact with a section of the other activating means. In other words, the two activation means can be connected to one another when the predetermined distance is present between the support nut and the locking nut, since as long as this predetermined distance is present, the distance between the safety nut and the lifting device is also smaller than the limit value for the distance. In other words, the defect-free state can be recognized by the fact that the two activation means are in contact with or in engagement with one another.

Furthermore, a first section of a first activation means can be connected to the lock nut; preferably such that the relative position between the first activation means and the locking nut cannot be changed. A second section of a second activation means can be connected to the lifting device; preferably such that this second section cannot change its position relative to the lifting device. A second section of the first activation means can be set up to be in contact with a first section of the second activation means (in the case of a defect-free state or in the case of a state with a defect below the limit value threshold). Preferably, the first portion of the second activation means may have at least one degree of freedom of movement in relation to the lifting device, e.g. rotatory and / or translational.

The above-described preferred arrangement of two activation means with the described preferred connection points allows a reliable detection of a defect, since the described arrangement leads to a defect-related relative movement between the lifting device and the locking nut - in particular triggered by a defect in the support nut, which leads to a relative movement between the support nut and locking nut - can only be reliably detected with the two activation means. In other words, the aforementioned preferred configuration allows a structurally less complex and at the same time effective arrangement for the technical function of the defect detection. The lifting platform is thus less complex to assemble and the detection function is guaranteed at the same time.

The support nut can be arranged above or below the locking nut. If the supporting nut is arranged above (in the longitudinal axial direction of the threaded spindle) the locking nut on the threaded spindle, the lifting platform can preferably be set up in such a way that a defect in the supporting nut leads to a reduction in the distance between the supporting nut and the locking nut and to an increase in the distance between the lock nut and the lifting device.

If the support nut is arranged below the lock nut on the threaded spindle, the lifting platform can preferably be set up in such a way that a defect in the support nut leads to an increase in the distance between the support nut and the lock nut and to an increase in the distance between the lock nut and the lifting device .

As stated above, in the preferred configuration of the lifting platform, a supporting nut defect leads to an increase in the distance between the locking nut and the lifting device in both cases described. As a result, the basic configuration of the distance detection device can also be designed in the same way independently of this arrangement, which advantageously reduces the structural complexity of the lifting platform.

The distance between the safety nut is particularly preferably increased and a predetermined point of the lifting device in the event of a supporting nut defect in that the supporting nut and the lifting device slip / fall in the direction of gravity on the threaded spindle in the event of a supporting nut defect until the safety nut stops this movement or this movement stops at the latest at the position of the safety nut . The predetermined point of the lifting device, which is relevant for the distance "measurement" or detection, can consequently be selected so that the distance in the event of a supporting nut defect in any case - when mounting the supporting nut above or below the safety nut - is greater than in the initial case in which the support nut shows no damage.

It is also noteworthy here that damage to the support nut should also include damage that represents reduced engagement between the threaded spindle and the support nut. In the present case, damage in the area of the thread engagement between the support nut and threaded spindle can also be recognized as a support nut defect if the support nut changes its position relative to the safety nut as a result.

The preferred embodiment explained above makes it possible that the distance between the lifting device or a point of this and the safety nut does not have to be monitored with a structurally complex sensor. Rather and advantageously, the detection of the exceeding of the limit value comprises the detection of the separation of the two activation means from one another. In the particularly preferred case described above, this detection can take place in that the second activating means, after separation from the first activating means, assumes a changed position - compared to the starting position in which it is connected to the first activating means. In a base case, the change in the position of the second activating means can be brought about solely by gravity and therefore does not require any complex structural measures. The changed or second position can in particular be changed to the extent that the first section of the second activation means moves relative to one another the lifting device executes or changes its position.

The activation of the supporting nut defect detection sensor can particularly preferably be configured in such a way that it takes place in a certain driving position of the lifting carriage. For example, the support nut failure detection sensor may be at one end, e.g. the lower end of the travel path of the lifting device on the column (stationary). In this example, the sensor can be triggered when the lifting device reaches the lower end position and the second activation means is in the position it assumes when it is separated from the first activation means, in which it has the supporting nut defect detection sensor in the lower one Travel position of the lifting device triggers.

The user of the lifting platform could consequently be informed directly about the damage case when the lifting carriage reaches a predefined driving position if the supporting nut defect detection sensor was activated. The information can include the output of a visual and / or acoustic indication. The control of the lifting platform can preferably also output a shutdown command that the user can only cancel by performing a repair. An indirect output of a case of damage, such as is usually conveyed in the prior art via a mechanically caused sluggishness of the lifting platform, is avoided by the direct detection and information, so that the user can also reliably deactivate the lifting platform.

Furthermore, the first activation means can be shaped like a rod. The second section can then be an end of the rod-shaped means. The second activation means can furthermore be a lever-shaped element, which can have an engagement section as a first section, which can be configured to receive the second section of the first activation means. This recording or the contact between the two sections can already be sufficient for the function of the defect detection if the second activation means due to the contact with the first activation means at a position change (towards the second Position in which the support nut defect detection sensor can be triggered) is prevented.

In addition to being in the form of a rod, the first activation means can alternatively preferably also be rope-like. The connection between a cable end and the second activation means can then be set up in such a way that the cable end detaches from the second activation means when the distance limit value has been exceeded. This can be carried out by a releasable clamping connection or a hook or a predetermined breaking point.

Preferably, the second activation means has an elongated lever shape and can be folded over in the separated, second position perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the threaded spindle.

The assembly of the two activation means is possible without great effort and, at the same time, the detachability at a predetermined point ensures reliable and easily detectable defect detection.

Furthermore, the second activation element can be actuated by means of a force means. For example, the force means can be a spring or the like. The force means can consequently preferably operate the function of transferring the second activating means from the starting position to the second position in which it is separated from the first activating means, without the influence of gravity or assisting gravity. In the latter case, for example, an accelerated transfer or a reliable transfer to the second position as the end position can be achieved. The second activation means is particularly preferably connected to the second section at one point with the lifting device fixed, this fastening point being particularly preferably arranged laterally offset to the threaded spindle. The transition from the initial state to the second position can preferably take place by rotating around the fastening point, so that the first section of the second activation means changes its position relative to the lifting device.

Furthermore, the supporting nut defect detection sensor can be attached to a vertically predetermined, fixed position of the column. The position can be determined arbitrarily during assembly. A plurality of supporting nut defect detection sensors can also be provided on the column at different vertical positions. The supporting nut defect detection sensor can be set up in such a way that an approach of the second activation means in the position separated from the first activation means, i. the second position, can be detected. For this purpose, the sensor can evaluate optical, electrical, magnetic and / or other signals, for example. In the preferred case, the sensor can optically recognize that the second activation means has approached the sensor surface up to a predetermined sensor distance. Particularly preferably, the second activation means does not approach the sensor in defect-free operation, since the position of the second activation means in the initial state in which it is connected to the first activation means does not lead to any approach to the sensor. This can be implemented, for example, in that the sensor axis or the sensor detection area is not crossed by the second activation means in the initial state. If, on the other hand, the second activation means is in the second position, it can protrude into the sensor detection area or touch it and, if the sensor is sufficiently approached, it can trigger it.

This ensures that the sensor or the defect detection is only triggered reliably in the event of an actual defect.

Furthermore, the supporting nut defect detection sensor can be arranged at a lower end position of the lifting device on the column. This has the advantage that in the event of a defect in the support nut, the defect is reliably displayed, as well as the Lifting device has been moved to the lowest position. If further supporting nut defect detection sensors are installed at additional points on the column, the defect detection can also be triggered at other lifting device travel positions.

Furthermore, the supporting nut defect detection sensor can be arranged on the column in such a way that it is at a small distance, e.g. between 10 mm and 50 mm, can be arranged above an end stop sensor. In this way, the defect report can be reported to the user before the final lower travel position is reached and the user can stop operation immediately.

In summary, an improved lifting platform is described, which in particular enables improved support nut detection that is structurally less complex.

Figur 1

zeigt eine Hebebühne schematisch und im Schnitt;

Figuren 2a, 2b

zeigen perspektivisch insbesondere eine Hubeinrichtung in einer teilweise ausgebrochenen Darstellung mit einer Tragmutterdefekt-Erkennungseinrichtung;

Figuren 3a, 3b

zeigen perspektivisch insbesondere eine Hubeinrichtung in einer teilweise ausgebrochenen Darstellung mit einer Tragmutterdefekt-Erkennungseinrichtung;

Figuren 4a, 4b

zeigen insbesondere einen Vergleich einer Tragmutterdefekt-Erkennungseinrichtung im Zustand ohne und mit Defekt einer Tragmutter; und

Figur 5

zeigt einen Ausschnitt einer Tragsäule mit einem Tragmutterdefekt-Erkennungssensor.

The present objects and methods are described below by way of example with reference to the attached schematic figures.

Figure 1

shows a lifting platform schematically and in section;

Figures 2a, 2b

show in perspective, in particular, a lifting device in a partially broken-away representation with a supporting nut defect detection device;

Figures 3a, 3b

show in perspective, in particular, a lifting device in a partially broken-away representation with a supporting nut defect detection device;

Figures 4a, 4b

show in particular a comparison of a supporting nut defect detection device in the state with and without a defect in a supporting nut; and

Figure 5

shows a section of a support column with a support nut defect detection sensor.

Various examples are described in detail below with reference to the figures. Identical or similar elements in the figures are denoted by the same reference symbols. However, this is not intended to be associated with a restriction to the examples described; Rather, the described subject matter can also include modifications of features of the described examples and combinations of features of different examples within the scope of protection of the independent claims.

Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of part of a lifting platform 1, a single support column 2 of the lifting platform 1 being shown schematically and in section. From the Figure 1 it can be seen that a lifting device 6 is mounted within a cavity 2b of the support column 2 formed by side walls 2a, which can also be referred to as lifting carriage 6 in the following. The illustration shows the lifting carriage 6 in a partially sectioned illustration in order to make further components visible. The lifting slide 6 is connected to a threaded spindle 3 by means of a support nut 4 in such a way that when the threaded spindle 3 rotates, the lifting slide 6 is moved up or down along a longitudinal axis of the threaded spindle 3. To support this mobility of the lifting slide 6, rolling or sliding elements 20 are arranged on the lifting slide 6, which are supported against an inside of the side wall 2 a of the support column 2. The embodiment shown here shows, for example, sliding blocks as rolling or sliding elements 20 which are mounted on holding elements / sliding bearing receptacles 6c of the lifting carriage 6. A locking nut 5, which is described in greater detail below, is also provided as a locking component.

The lifting carriage 6 is connected to a support arm 22 via a support 21. The support arm 22 holds a motor vehicle receptacle 22a on which a motor vehicle to be lifted can be placed. The support arm 22 is detachably connected to the support 21. Moving the lifting slide 6 along the threaded spindle 3 results in a connection between the lifting slide 6 and the support arm 22 Up or down movement of the support arm 22 and thus a motor vehicle parked thereon.

A threaded spindle bearing (not shown), which rotatably supports the threaded spindle 3, can be provided in a lower area of the support column 2 within the support column 2. Furthermore, the support column 2 preferably has an end plate 23 which, by means of screws (not shown) or the like, can establish a fixed connection between the support column 2 and a floor on which the support column 2 can be mounted. In an upper region of the support column 2, a housing with a drive at least for rotating the threaded spindle 3 can preferably and in the usual manner be provided, which the Figure 1 because of the schematic representation does not represent. Here an upper end 3a of the threaded spindle 3 is shown, which protrudes from the upper region of the cavity 2b of the support column 2, so that a drive or a transmission device for the drive force can be connected to it.

In the following, details and preferred functions of the Figure 1 Overview described lifting platform 1 set out.

The Figures 2a and 2b show a supporting nut defect detection device 7 with a distance detection device 8 in an initial state and a partial section / area of the lifting platform 1. More precisely, FIGS Figures 2a and 2b a part of the lifting device 6, one of the side walls 6a of the lifting device 6 being shown broken away in order to make components located behind it, in particular the supporting nut defect detection device 7, visible. Also show the Figures 2a and 2b the threaded spindle 3 or a part of this threaded spindle 3 and a support nut defect detection sensor 9 which is connected to the support column 2; for example via one of the side walls 2a of the support column 2.

Furthermore, the two show Figures 2a and 2b also the support 21, which is used for receiving or fastening at least one support arm 22 of the lifting platform 1 is provided. As previously described, both show Figures 2a and 2b a starting position of the supporting nut defect detection device 7, which can be seen from the fact that a first activation means 10, which is shown here as a rod-shaped component by way of example, is shown with a second section 10b in engagement with a first section 11a of a second activation means 11.

The second activation means 11 is essentially lever-shaped and rotatably connected to the lifting device 6 at a point P. The connection between the lifting device 6 and the second activation means 11 can be supported in its function by a force support shown schematically, for example a torsion spring, a compression spring, a spring plate or another elastic-resilient component, which will be referred to below as a force means 12. The movement of the second activation means 11 can alternatively also take place in a translatory or rotational-translational manner if the connection between the second activation means 11 and the support column 2 is designed accordingly.

The exact function of the second activation means 11 will be further clarified with the explanation of the following figures. In the depiction of the Figures 2a and 2b the first section 11a of the second activation means 11 has a U-shaped trough and, in the shown starting position of the second activation means 11, is arranged above a reinforced section 11c. The contact with the second section 10b of the first activating means 10 prevents a rotation of the second activating means 11 in the direction of gravity or downward in the direction shown here Figures 2a and 2b . In the figures described here, the second section 10b preferably comprises the end of the rod-shaped activation means 10. If the force means 12 described above is not provided at the fastening point P between the lifting device 6 and the second activation means 11, an embodiment can be designed in such a way that gravity alone is sufficient to cause rotation of the second activating agent 11 in the clockwise direction shown in the figures to trigger or cause. The optional thickened section 11c can also support this functionality.

In addition, the second activation means 11 can have a section 11d which is set up to stop the rotation of the second activation means 11 at a defined second position. This will also be explained in more detail below. For the description of the Figures 2a and 2b It is only intended to point out that this further section 11d is preferably provided as an integral section of the second activation means 11 and here in particular as a protruding pin-like section. The function of the sections 11c and 11d can, however, also be implemented in a different configuration, which is not shown here, as long as the technical function described above is fulfilled.

They continue to do Figures 2a and 2b It is schematically clear that a first section 10a of the first activation means 10 in the present case comprises the opposite end of the rod-shaped first activation means 10 and this is firmly connected to the locking nut 5 also shown in the figures by means of a screw or a plug pin 5a. In the case of a screw connection, the first activating means 10 can only be released by screwing and accordingly the somewhat higher assembly effort. A plug pin 5a has the advantage that the first activation means 10 can be carried out by means of a simple plug-on assembly and without tools.

Both activation means 10 and 11 are part of the or a distance detection device 8, which is part of the supporting nut defect detection device 7 and whose function will also become more precisely clear in the further course of the following description of the figures.

Furthermore show the Figures 2a and 2b the arrangement of the threaded spindle 3 with the nuts mounted thereon, more precisely the supporting nut 4 and the locking nut 5. In the present example, the locking nut 5 is arranged above the supporting nut 4. However, this is also possible in reverse order.

It can also be seen that a distance A1 is provided between the locking nut 5 and the supporting nut 4 along the longitudinal axis L of the threaded spindle 3, which is predetermined prior to assembly and, in the case of normal, i. H. defect-free support nut 4, remains constant - here the distance A1 between an upper end edge of the support nut 4 and a lower end edge of the locking nut 5 is shown. In other words, during operation, while the supporting nut 4 is free of defects, the locking nut 5 will follow the movement of the supporting nut 4 along the threaded spindle 3 or move along in such a way that the preset or predetermined distance A1 between the two nuts 4 and 5 remains constant .

Furthermore show the Figures 2a and 2b Parts of the lifting device 6, which in particular include the side walls 6a and transverse walls 6b, which can be connected to the side walls 6a, for example, by means of slot connector systems. However, other connection options between the transverse walls 6b and the side walls 6a can also be used. In the upper area of the Figures 2a and 2b and in particular in the side view or oblique view of Figure 2b two transverse walls 6b1,2 are shown, one of the two transverse walls 6b1 being arranged between the supporting nut 4 and the locking nut 5 and the other transverse wall 6b2 being arranged below the supporting nut 4. Furthermore, a further transverse wall 6b3 is connected to the side walls 6a of the lifting device 6 in a fixed position above the locking nut 5. In the area of the upper transverse wall 6b3, a slide bearing or roller bearing receptacle 6c can be provided on the lifting device 6 at the two upper and lower corner positions of the lifting device 6, which can be essentially rectangular hollow profiles, the longitudinal axes of which are arranged parallel to one another and which are shown in a plane which is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the threaded spindle 3, lie. In a top view (along the longitudinal axis of the threaded spindle 3, ie a top view of the smaller cross-sectional area of the lifting device 6), an essentially H-shaped profile of the lifting device 6 results, with the above-described rolling or sliding elements 20 being mountable at both ends of the slide bearing receptacles 6c (shown in FIG the Figures 2 to 4 are not mounted / shown on the elements 6c).

Compared to the Figures 2a and 2b show the Figures 3a and 3b the same views or perspectives of the section of the lifting platform 1, which in particular shows part of the lifting device 6, the threaded spindle 3, the support 21 and the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9. However, they show Figures 3a and 3b a different state of the above-described part of the lifting platform 1 or of the supporting nut defect detection device 7 comprising the distance detection device 8.

So go out of the Figures 3a and 3b shows that the changed or second position of the second activating means 11 already briefly described is shown, in which the second section 10b of the first activating means 10 is not in engagement or contact with the first section 11a of the second activating means 11.

In other words, in the representation of the Figures 3a and 3b the first and the second activation means 10 and 11 are separated from one another, which in the present case indicates a defect in the support nut 4 or makes it detectable. The mechanism of detection or the transition from the initial state to the separate state of the first and second activation means 10 or 11 and the transition of the second activation means 11 or its first section 11a from the initial position to the second position takes place in that at a Defect of the support nut 4, both the support nut 4 and the lifting device 6 due to the action of gravity (and the defect-related lost holding function of the support nut 4 on the threaded spindle 3) in the figures are pulled or fall downwards. This movement of the lifting device 6 and the support nut 4 is terminated at the latest by the locking nut 5, which stops this falling or the downward movement of the lifting device 6 and the support nut 4 at a defined point. In the Figures 3a and 3b this can be seen from the fact that a distance A2 between the uppermost transverse wall 6b3 of the lifting device 6 and an upper edge of the locking nut 5, which is in the Figures 2a and 2b is shown visible by means of arrows, in the Figures 3a and 3b is no longer shown. The lifting device 6 and the supporting nut 4 have consequently slipped or fallen downwards by this distance A2, which is present in the defect-free state, between the locking nut 5 and (top transverse wall 6b3 of the lifting device 6). Since the locking nut 5 is now in direct contact with the lifting device 6, further lowering of the supporting nut 4 or the lifting device 6 is prevented.

The lowering or dropping of the lifting device 6 due to the defect in the supporting nut 4, which is not shown further here, also has the consequence that the connection between the first and second activation means 10 or 11 is canceled. This comes about in particular in that the connection point P between the second activation means 11 and the lifting device 6 is selected in such a way that the distance between the locking nut 5 and this fastening point P increases in the event of a supporting nut defect. Here, this is implemented in particular in that the second section 11b of the second activation means 11 is connected to the lifting device 6 at a point which is arranged below the locking nut 5 and the supporting nut 4. In other words, a supporting nut defect causes a relative movement between the lifting device 6 with the second activation means 11 and the locking nut 5, on which the first activation means 10 is fixedly arranged.

The connection between the first activation means 10 and the second activation means 12 is preferably only released when the second section 10b of the first activation means 10 slips out of contact or out of engagement with the first section 11a of the second activation means 11 moves. The corresponding length can be viewed as a limit value, so that the distance detection device 8 only reports a supporting nut defect when this limit value has been exceeded. However, a complex sensor is not necessary for monitoring this limit value, but this is only realized by the mechanical function described above and the mode of operation of the first and second activation means 10 and 11. For example, the limit value can be defined by the depth of the trough of the first section 11a of the second activating means 11 and / or by the length of the second section 10b.

After the two activation means 10 and 11 are separated from one another, the second activation means 11 is transferred to the second position due to gravity and / or the action of the force means 12, which in the embodiment shown here is caused by a rotation in the direction of gravity or here clockwise. In addition to supporting the gravity function, the thickened area 11c of the second activation means 11 also has the function that an end area or an edge of this reinforced section 11c is brought closer to the support nut defect detection sensor 9. To support this and to prevent the second activating means 11 from spinning or over-tightening, the further section 11d can also be provided, which can strike a section of the lifting device 6 as soon as the second position as the end position of the second activating means 11 is reached.

The ones in the Figures 3a and 3b The second position shown of the second activation means 11 finally activates the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9, preferably when the travel position of the lifting device 6 is such that the second activation means 11 is in the immediate vicinity of the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9. A preferred mounting position for the support nut defect detection sensor 9 can be a lower travel position of the lifting device 6, so that the support nut defect detection sensor 9 triggers or detects a defect when the lifting platform 1 assumes a lower travel position. In this way it can be ensured that when the Lifting device 6 in the lowermost travel position, ie in a zero position of the lifting platform 1, an alarm or a defect report can be triggered in any case. Furthermore, several supporting nut defect detection sensors 9 can of course also be arranged along the longitudinal axis of the supporting column 2, so that a more finely meshed defect report can be made possible with regard to the displacement position of the lifting device 6. The advantage of attaching the support nut defect detection sensor 9 to the support column 2 is that it does not have to travel with the lifting device 6, so that no complex cable routing for the power supply or signal line between the sensor and a control unit (not shown) has to be accommodated in the support column 2. This reduces the structural complexity.

Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to mount the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9 at a corresponding position of the lifting device 6 if, in an alternative embodiment, the defect report should be able to be reported immediately regardless of the displacement position of the lifting device 6. This has the advantage that the defect report is triggered independently of the travel position, but at the same time entails the need, as described above, to have to connect the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9 with appropriate cables of flexible length to a control device arranged on the supporting column 2.

In summary, from the synopsis the Figures 2 and 3 thus the very reliable and at the same time structurally less complex technical function of the supporting nut defect detection device 7 or the distance detection device 8, the latter essentially comprising the two activation means 10 and 11, which are in contact or connected to one another in a defect-free state of the supporting nut 4 and which are separated from one another in the event of a defect in the supporting nut 4. These two activation means 10 and 11 are separated due to a relative movement between the lifting device 6, the supporting nut 4 and the locking nut 5 or the respective and in Activating means 10 and 11 connected in the manner described above. Complex sensors and other components are not required in the solution described above, which is to be seen as a further technical advantage.

Furthermore show the Figures 4a and 4b In a representation that is further reduced in terms of details, the comparison between the initial situation in a supporting nut defect-free state of the lifting platform 1 and a state in which there is a supporting nut defect that has led to a relative movement between the first and second activation means 10 and 11 that is greater than the limit value, ie, in the case shown here, for example, longer than the second section 10b of the first activation means 10, which engages in the first section 11a of the second activation means 11. This can be seen by comparing the Figures 4a and 4b also at the changed distances between the support nut 4 and the locking nut 5 (distance A1) as well as between the uppermost transverse wall 6b3 and the locking nut 5 (distance A2) as well as the triggered second activation means 11, which in the Figure 4b shown in the second position.

It is noteworthy that the functionality described above is also given when the order of the arrangement of the support nut 4 and the lock nut 5 is reversed, since with the corresponding positioning of the second activation means 11 or its connection to the lifting device 6, even with the opposite arrangement of the support nut 4 and the lock nut 5 an increase in the distance A2 between locking nut 5 and lifting device 6 or second section 10b of first activation means 10 and first section 11a of second activation means 11 takes place.

It is also noteworthy that the particularly preferred rotational transfer of the second activation means 11 from the starting position in the defect-free state of the support nut 4 to the second position in the event of a defect in the support nut 4 also with a translation of the distance length, in particular an increase, goes hand in hand with the fact that the distance A2, which is relatively small, is translated into a larger distance which the second activation means 11 or its first section 11a overcomes from the initial situation into the second position. This can help ensure that the sensor 9 is not triggered incorrectly in fault-free operation.

The figures do not show that the error value is reported to a control unit via a signal line when the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9 is activated and a control unit (not shown) can report a defect to the user. The defect can be reported via optical means, such as a flashing or glowing lamp on the lifting platform 1 or via an error output or defect report via a computer with a corresponding screen connected to the control device or a unit within an operating unit or Control unit of the lift 1. Alternatively or additionally, an acoustic message can also be output, such as the sounding of an error signal or a voice output. In any case, the user is reliably informed directly about the defect and, in addition, the control device can be set up to block further operation of the lifting platform 1 until after a repair.

Finally shows the Figure 5 Another section of the support column 2 of the lifting platform 1 and in particular a lower section of an exemplary support column 2, in which the support nut defect detection sensor 9 is mounted at a lowermost travel position of the lifting device 6. Particularly preferred, as is the case Figure 5 represents, the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9 is, however, mounted in the longitudinal direction of the threaded spindle 3 above an end stop sensor 13, so that even before the end stop sensor 13 is triggered, a defect message is issued due to the activated supporting nut defect detection sensor 9 if a defect should have occurred.

Further, with regard to the position of the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9, it should be noted that it is preferable, and as in FIG Figure 5 shown laterally offset can be arranged to a longitudinal axis of the first activation means 10, so that when the second activation means 11 rotates, the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9 is triggered and the sensor 9 is not triggered in an initial state of the distance detection device, ie in defect-free operation. With regard to the sensors 9 and 13 used, it should also be noted that these can be of the same type or different, but preferably of the same type. In a particularly less complex exemplary embodiment, both sensors 9 and 13 can be contact elements or elements that can be operated by means of contact, so that contact between the second activation means 11 and the pressure surface of the supporting nut defect detection sensor 9 leads to a defect report. Likewise, however, these sensors 9 and 13 can also have other functional principles, for example based on optical or electromagnetic functional principles, which can for example detect an approach of a component down to a certain minimum distance.

• 1 Hebebühne
• 2 (Trag-)Säule
• 2a Seitenwand Tragsäule 2
• 2b Hohlraum der Tragsäule 2
• 3 Gewindespindel (Hubspindel)
• 3a oberes Ende der Gewindespindel 3
• 4 Tragmutter
• 5 Sicherungsmutter
• 5a Steckpin/Schraube
• 6 Hubeinrichtung
• 6a Seitenwand
• 6b1-3 Querwand
• 6c Gleitlageraufnahme
• 7 Tragmutterdefekt-Erkennungseinrichtung
• 8 Abstandsdetektionseinrichtung
• 9 Tragmutterdefekt-Erkennungssensor
• 10, 11 erstes, zweites Aktivierungsmittel
• 10a erster Abschnitt des ersten Aktivierungsmittels
• 10b zweiter Abschnitt des ersten Aktivierungsmittels
• 11a erster Abschnitt des zweiten Aktivierungsmittels
• 11b zweiter Abschnitt des zweiten Aktivierungsmittels
• 12 Kraftmittel
• 13 Endanschlagsensor
• 20 Gleit- bzw. Rollelement
• 21 Auflager
• 22 Tragarm
• 22a Kraftfahrzeugaufnahme
• 23 Bodenplatte
• A1 Abstand zwischen Tragmutter und Sicherungsmutter
• A2 Abstand zwischen Hubeinrichtung bzw. Querwand 6b3 und Sicherungsmutter
• P Befestigungspunkt

In summary, examples and aspects for an improved lifting platform with direct breakage detection of the support nut are described here, which can be implemented cost-effectively and with little structural complexity.

• 1 lifting platform
• 2 (support) pillar
• 2a side wall support column 2
• 2b cavity of the support column 2
• 3 threaded spindle (lifting spindle)
• 3a upper end of the threaded spindle 3
• 4 support nut
• 5 lock nut
• 5a pin / screw
• 6 lifting device
• 6a side wall
• 6b1-3 transverse wall
• 6c plain bearing mount
• 7 Support nut defect detection device
• 8 distance detection device
• 9 Support nut defect detection sensor
• 10, 11 first, second activation means
• 10a first section of the first activating agent
• 10b second section of the first activating agent
• 11a first section of the second activating agent
• 11b second section of the second activating agent
• 12 fuel
• 13 End stop sensor
• 20 sliding or rolling element
• 21 supports
• 22 support arm
• 22a Vehicle recording
• 23 base plate
• A1 Distance between support nut and lock nut
• A2 Distance between lifting device or transverse wall 6b3 and lock nut
• P attachment point

Claims (15)

Lifting platform (1) for motor vehicles with - A support column (2) which rotatably supports a threaded spindle (3), - a support nut (4) which is in engagement with the threaded spindle (3) and which can be moved thereon by a rotary movement of the threaded spindle (3), - a lifting device (6) which is connected to the support nut (4) and is set up to hold at least one support arm (22), - A locking nut (5) which is arranged offset to the support nut (4) in engagement with the threaded spindle (3), and - A support nut defect detection device (7) which has a distance detection device (8) with at least two activation means (10, 11) which are in contact with one another in the case of a defect-free support nut (4) and which are separated from one another in the event of a defect in the support nut (4) are arranged. Lifting platform according to patent claim 1, characterized in that the supporting nut defect detection device (7) has the distance detection device (8) and a supporting nut defect detection sensor (9), the supporting nut defect detection sensor (9) by one of the following in the event of a defect in the supporting nut (4) Activation means (10, 11) can be activated. Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a second activation means (11) is set up to pass into a second position in the separated state of the activation means (10, 11) in which the supporting nut defect detection sensor (9) is activated by the second activation means (11) can be activated. Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lifting device (6) and the locking nut (5) in a defect-free state of the support nut (4) are arranged at a predetermined distance (A2) from one another and are arranged in such a way that a movement relative to one another is carried out in the event of a defect in the support nut (4). Lifting platform according to patent claim 4, characterized in that the distance detection device (8) detects an increase in the predetermined distance (A2) between the locking nut (5) and the lifting device (6) beyond a limit value for this distance (A2). Lifting platform according to claim 5, characterized in that - The distance detection device (8) detects the enlargement beyond the limit value in that the activation means (10, 11) are in contact with one another at the predetermined distance (A2) between the locking nut (5) and the lifting device (6) and at a Exceeding the limit value are separated from each other. Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance detection device (8) comprises at least a first and a second activation means (10, 11), wherein - A first section (10a) of the first activation means (10) is connected to the locking nut (5), - A second section (11b) of the second activation means (11) is connected to the lifting device (6), - and a second section (10b) of the first activation means (10) is set up to be in contact with a first section (11a) of the second activation means (11). Lift according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support nut (4) is arranged above the locking nut (5) on the threaded spindle (3) and a defect in the support nut (4) leads to a reduction in a distance (A1) between the support nut (4) and the Lock nut (5) and leads to an increase in the distance (A2) between the lock nut (5) and the lifting device (6). Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support nut (4) is arranged below the locking nut (5) on the threaded spindle (3) and a defect in the support nut (4) increases the distance (A1) between the support nut (4) and the locking nut (5) and leads to an increase in a distance (A2) between the locking nut (5) and the lifting device (6). Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first activation means (10) is rod-shaped and the second section (10b) is an end section of the rod-shaped means and the second activation means (11) is a lever-shaped element that has an engagement section as the first section (11a) which is set up to receive the second section (10b) of the first activation means (10b). Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second activation element (11) has a thickened section (11c) which supports a movement of the second activation element (11) due to gravity into a second position separate from the first activation means (10). Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second activation element (11) has an additional section (11d) which holds the second activation element (11) in a predefined second position after separation from the first activation means (10). Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second activation element (11) by means of a Kraftmittel (12) can be actuated. Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support nut defect detection sensor (9) is attached to a vertically predetermined position of the support column (2) and is set up in such a way that the second activation means (11) approach one of the first activation means (10) to detect separate second position. Lifting platform according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support nut defect detection sensor (9) is arranged at a lower end position of the support column (2) and at a predetermined distance above an end stop sensor (13).

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