EP3793880A1

EP3793880A1 - Coupling device having a covering device, and rail vehicle having a coupling device

Info

Publication number: EP3793880A1
Application number: EP19725676.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Minzhe SHI; Ioan Deac
Original assignee: Voith Patent GmbH
Current assignee: Voith Patent GmbH
Priority date: 2018-05-18
Filing date: 2019-05-16
Publication date: 2021-03-24
Anticipated expiration: 2039-05-16
Also published as: WO2019219809A1; EP3793880B1; DE102018111979A1; PL3793880T3; HUE063441T2

Abstract

The invention relates to a coupling device for a rail-bound vehicle for connection to a counter-coupling device of a further rail-bound vehicle, wherein the coupling device is characterized by an extent in the longitudinal direction along a theoretical coupling longitudinal axis and can be fastened or is articulated, at least indirectly, on the vehicle frame of the rail-bound vehicle in the vehicle-side end region facing away from the coupling head; with a coupling head for coupling to a coupling head of the counter-coupling device; with a covering device for protection from ambient and environmental influences that at least partially encloses the coupling head. The invention is characterized in that the covering device is designed and arranged in such a way as to enclose the coupling device at least partially over the extent of the coupling device in the longitudinal direction and in the circumferential direction about the coupling longitudinal axis at least in subregions while forming a spacing from the outer circumference of the coupling device.

Description

Coupling device with a covering device and rail vehicle with a coupling device

The invention relates to a coupling device with a cover, in detail with the features of the preamble of claim 1. The invention further relates to a rail vehicle with a coupling device and cover for protection against environmental and weather conditions.

For the formation of train assemblies automatic couplings, in particular semi-automatic coupling devices as well as fully automatic coupling devices on railcars and locomotives at the front and rear end portions of the respective trains are in use in rail transport. Such coupling devices can be designed very differently in terms of their length, weight and dimensions to meet the respective Zugspezifischen claim. Furthermore, such coupling devices may also be equipped with additional functional means, such as electrical couplings and / or air couplings. The arrangement of such functional devices viewed in the installed position of the coupling device takes place either on both sides laterally or laterally and in the vertical direction above or below the coupling longitudinal axis associated with the coupling head. These are connected either directly or via a carrier device with the coupling head and stored on this.

Rail-bound vehicles with such previously described coupling devices are generally in operation year round, so that they can be inevitably exposed to all weather conditions. This can on the one hand lead to icing of this or the accumulation of snow and ice, which may result in functional impairments of the coupling device itself and the additional functional devices, such as the electric clutch or air clutch. Specifically, for example, the blocking of the coupling devices, the failure of the function of Kuppeins in operation as well as in a standstill and uncoupled state can be the result. Furthermore, it is conceivable that due to locally unfavorable deposition and setting of such snow and dirt particles and icing the vertical and horizontal function of the deflection and swiveling out of the coupling device is no longer given. As a consequence, this can lead to damage to the coupling device itself, which in turn results in failures of the rail-bound vehicle or of the corresponding train formation. Also under these conditions, a change in the train, for example, separation or merger due to low or increased passenger traffic by the given functional impairment can be made difficult.

Different weather conditions can also lead to failures, damage or failure of functionally relevant components and accessories to total failure and damage to hoses, pipes and other attachments on the train or on the coupling device. From the prior art designs of coupling devices with covers are known to avoid such disadvantages. Most trains, especially express trains and speedboats, are factory-fitted with guards or systems to protect the coupling devices. These are designed as covering devices which either serve for the direct covering of the coupling head and the functional components arranged on it or else protect a space surrounding the coupling head or the coupling rod from the environment.

According to a first known embodiment, such a coupling device is provided with an enclosure. The enclosure can be made as a whole unit of metal or a non-metal and enclose the coupling head and optionally additional functional facilities to protect them from the ambient conditions, in particular possible weather conditions. Embodiments with covering devices in the form of pivotable hoods are previously known, for example, from EP 0 811 539 A1 and EP 1 350 703 B1. EP 0 811 539 A1 describes a cover for a coupling head with a hood for protecting the coupling head, wherein a relatively complex sequence of movements is required for pivoting the cover from the working or uncoupling state into a rest or dome state, in which the cover is initially in the direction the clutch is tightened to release the cover from a closure device. Subsequently, a circular movement takes place, in which the cover is pivoted about a pivot point down. To simplify the Motion sequence disclosed in the publication EP 1 350 703 B1, a development of this aforementioned embodiment.

A cover device for a coupling head is further known from the publication EP 33 231 685 A1, this being a partial cover of

Coupling device in the upper and front end region allows.

The document DE 43 00 393 A1 discloses an embodiment for protecting a coupling head, which provides a horizontally pivotable cover, which form the nose of a traction vehicle in the form of solid shells. In general, these covers are pivoted in half shell construction by rods and articulated racks by means of pneumatic or hydraulic drives in front of the clutch and moved back into the coupling region of the locomotive.

Further embodiments of covers of the frontal region of a coupling head are for example known from DE 44 45 182 C1, DE 43 12 405 and DE 106 35 382 A1. These are often very expensive and can not be sensibly installed in all traction vehicles. In particular, the space required for the kinematics of the respective pivoting devices is not always available.

EP 1 524 165 B1 describes an embodiment which provides a flexible cover which can be adapted to almost any coupling head size and to be fastened to the coupling. This cover is designed as a flexible hood and has in the rear area an opening for mounting on the coupling head and in its front region one or more closure devices. However, this flexible design requires a required adjustment of a single hood to the application in order to rest firmly on the coupling head and thus to be fixed with respect to the position of this. However, this means that additional functional units and their operation, especially in the realization of required relative movements relative to the coupling head, only partially or not at all with such cover from environmental and weather conditions are protectable. Another significant problem is that in the coupled state of the coupling head with the counter-coupling head of a counter-coupling while a cover of the outer circumference in the direction of extension of the respective coupling head is given, but the actual coupling region, that is the Area at which the two coupling heads abut each other is not protected. To solve this problem, WO 2017/215850 A1 proposes a cover for a coupling head, which comprises a hood, wherein the hood viewed in the longitudinal direction in a longitudinal direction in a first end region an opening for access to the front side of the coupling head and in a second end region having an opening for passing parts of the coupling device. The hood is thereby formed by a rigid support structure having means for fixedly attaching and supporting the coupling device and the cover in the longitudinally considered first end portion of the support structure comprises a cover member for releasing or covering the opening for releasing the access to the front side of the coupling head, which is releasably connected to the support structure. According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the support structure comprises a frame structure which can be fastened to the coupling head or the coupling device and is clad with corresponding cladding walls to enclose the coupling head in the circumferential direction to form an inner space for receiving and other functional elements.

The versions with only one cover of the coupling head is common that often the other functional devices are only partially protected from environmental influences.

In covering devices which serve to seal off an opening provided in the front region of a rail-bound vehicle as required, through which a coupling shaft of a coupling device extends in the coupled and uncoupled state, for example EP 2 524 850 B1, DE 10 2015 214 606 A1 and DE 10 2016 219 267 A1 previously known. These try to foreclose the space behind the coupling head by placing covering devices between the coupling head and the bow flaps against the environment. DE 10 2016 219 267 A1 discloses a Gaiteranordnung, in which the cover is attached to the coupling head and the nose flaps and spans when moving the front doors in the open state. A solution with manually applied covering device is known from DE 10 2015 214 606 A1.

The solutions for covering the rear space of a coupling device assume that a corresponding underbody structure must be given to Environmental influences, especially thrown up dirt particles from below to keep away from the coupling device. Furthermore, such designs are also suitable only for end areas of rail-bound vehicles with cover flaps, especially front doors. An accessibility to the coupling device for maintenance usually requires a removal of the cover.

The invention is therefore the object of a cover device for a coupling device rail-bound vehicles in such a way and further develop that this is relatively flexible adaptable to different application requirements as well as easily modifiable. Impairment of the operation of the coupling device by weather and other environmental influences are to be avoided. Desweitern this should be easy to retrofit in existing coupling devices. Another requirement is easy access to the individual functional devices and the corresponding functional components of the coupling device in the case of maintenance. The entire construction should be as simple and lightweight construction, that is to be realized with the lowest possible weight.

The solution according to the invention is characterized by the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are described in the subclaims. A rail vehicle with a coupling device with cover is described in claims 22 and 24.

A coupling device for a rail-bound vehicle for connecting to a counter-coupling device of another rail-bound vehicle, wherein the coupling device is characterized by an extension in the longitudinal direction along a theoretical coupling longitudinal axis and fastened or articulated at least remote from the coupling head in the vehicle-side end portion of the vehicle frame of the rail-bound vehicle;

with a coupling head for coupling with a coupling head of

Counter-coupling device;

with a covering device for protection against environmental and environmental influences, which at least partially surrounds the coupling head;

is inventively characterized in that the covering device is designed and arranged, the coupling device at least partially over the Extension of the coupling device in the longitudinal direction and in the circumferential direction to enclose the coupling longitudinal axis at least in partial regions to form a distance to the outer periphery of the coupling device.

A rail-bound vehicle is understood to mean any vehicle which is capable of being moved on rails. The vehicles may be vehicles with propulsion or free of their own drive the latter may for example be designed as cars or wagons, which are merge in a train with a driven vehicle.

In this context, the term vehicle frame is understood in particular as any structure of the rail-bound vehicle which in particular assumes a support function or support function. This can be both frame parts and plate-like elements, in particular intermediate plates.

With the enclosure according to the invention not only of the coupling head but also of other components of the coupling device, it can be safely protected from the effects of weather and other negative environmental influences. The protection takes place in the immediate vicinity of the coupling device and is thus independent of the conversions of the coupling device in the installation space. The at least partially spaced arrangement of the cover also makes it possible to cover also additional functional devices or other additional components that may be arranged in the region of the coupling device or are also attached thereto, and thus to protect against environmental influences.

The coupling device is arranged in the application of a rail-bound vehicle in an end region thereof and generally extends away from the vehicle frame. Depending on the design of the coupling device this is equipped with additional functional components, such as damping devices between the coupling head and support on the vehicle. For this purpose, in one embodiment, the coupling device comprises at least one coupling rod which is connected to the coupling head and which is articulated thereto via a bearing device fastened to the vehicle frame or is supported on the same via a tension bow arrangement. The extension of the coupling device in the longitudinal direction thus builds relatively long. In particular, for such embodiments is the Solution according to the invention particularly suitable to safely cover the individual functional components of the coupling device and also also additional functional devices while still ensuring optimum accessibility to these.

Depending on the design of the cover this serves the at least partial coverage of the coupling device in the extension direction viewed in the longitudinal direction or the full coverage. For this purpose, the covering device has, at its coupling head-side end region, at least one device for attachment to the coupling head or to a component connected thereto. This ensures that the cover completely accommodates at least a portion of the coupling head, preferably the coupling head. In the case of at least partial covering of the coupling device in the longitudinal direction, the covering device has on its vehicle-side end region a device for attachment to the coupling device or to a component connected thereto. With complete coverage in the longitudinal direction, the covering device in a development on its vehicle-side end portion on a device for attachment to the vehicle frame or connected to this component, wherein the component connected to the vehicle frame can also be formed by a connected to the coupling rod bearing device, in particular bearing block , In embodiments with attachment of the covering device on the coupling head and in the vehicle-side end region of the covering device on the coupling device, for example the coupling rod or the bearing device or the bearing block, it is possible to keep the coupling device completely pre-assembled with the covering device in stock and to deliver. An expensive attachment to the vehicle subsequently can be omitted.

In all the aforementioned cases, however, the covering device preferably extends in the longitudinal direction, preferably completely, from the front side of the coupling head via the coupling device. This ensures that even when coupled with a counter-coupling, the coupling area is covered with and thus protected against the weather.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the covering device has, viewed in the longitudinal direction of the coupling device, at least one outer circumference a closable opening for releasing access to the coupling device in the extension region thereof in the longitudinal direction. As a result, the accessibility to individual functional components of the coupling device or the coupling device associated functional devices, such as electrical coupling, line coupling and their associated connecting lines over the extension of the coupling device in the longitudinal direction for maintenance purposes safely given.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the covering device is at least partially formed by a flexible structure. The flexibility may be given due to the selected materials and / or the concrete structure of the cover.

This flexibility allows for a simple installation and optionally retrofittability even with already installed coupling devices, also an adaptation to positional deviations and different installation situations.

The flexibility can be given both in the longitudinal direction and the circumferential direction of the coupling device about the longitudinal axis. The latter possibility allows a mounting of the covering device even in the longitudinal direction strongly changing dimensions by reconstructions of the coupling device in the available installation space.

According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the covering device is at least partially formed by a functional textile, formed from chemical fibers, natural fibers or a mixed fabric of these. The advantage of using functional textiles lies in the very low weight, so that even covering devices of greater length do not require a greater additional weight. Further, the proper choice of the type of functional fabric, for example with water repellant properties, provides additional benefits. So the low weight can be kept even when wet. Due to its composition, the functional textile can also be embodied with further properties, for example being flame-retardant.

In order to safely avoid in the application a direct concern or grinding the cover in defined areas on the outer circumference of the coupling device, the formed by the functional fabric portion of the cover receives its shape in mounting position in the simplest case solely by clamping when attaching the cover to the coupling device and the vehicle frame , In an advantageous development, the shaping can be achieved either alone or in addition to the abovementioned possibility in that the subregion of the covering device formed by the functional textile is supported by a support structure. This can get its position by the clamping between the connecting elements arranged on both sides of the covering part device with a flexible structure or by arrangement and attachment to the coupling device. The latter option offers the advantage of being able to separate them from one another precisely when the covering device is formed from a plurality of cover part devices without having to change the shape and the space enclosed thereby at the coupling device in which additional functional devices can be arranged.

According to a variant of such an embodiment, the covering device comprises a plane which at least partially surrounds the coupling device in the circumferential direction and which is mounted on the coupling device via a support structure which can be guided in guides arranged on the coupling device. In the covering position, the tarpaulin is stretched. The support structure, which is formed, for example, guided on two sides of the coupling device attached to this guides support elements, in particular support profiles is extended in the covering and the tarpaulin arranged on this as the outer shell and held in the tensioned position.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the cover is formed in the longitudinal direction of the coupling device viewed from the front side of the coupling head over the entire extension of the coupling device extending in the longitudinal direction. This offers the advantage, even in the coupled state, to be able to keep the coupling device completely free of undesired weather influences, as well as to enable a shielding of the coupling device close to the outer circumference. Also, the coupling device can be pre-assembled with the cover device before installation.

In an advantageous embodiment, the covering device is designed as a single covering device module. In this embodiment, the required interface or connection areas are reduced. In one embodiment, the covering device comprises a hood which surrounds only the coupling head and, viewed in the longitudinal direction in the longitudinal direction, has an opening for opening access to the front side of the coupling head in a first end region and an opening for passing through parts of the coupling device in a second end region. In this case, the hood has the support structure with means for stationary fastening / storage on the coupling head and / or a component connected to this and a coupling housing enclosing and supported on the support structure on textile cladding. The use of the textile wrapping formed by a functional textile offers the advantages already mentioned above for the flexible structure or functional textile. The cover further includes in the first end portion a cover member for releasing or covering the opening to the end face of the coupling head which is detachably connected to the support structure.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of this embodiment, the support structure is designed as a rigid connectable to the coupling head and this enclosing a partial area in the circumferential direction part hood. This comprises a, the coupling head over a portion in the circumferential direction in the end-side end region enclosing and attachable to this frame member and a fastened in the vehicle end portion of the coupling head or on the coupling rod connected thereto holder element, said frame member and holder element are interconnected via intermediate elements to form the part of the hood , The rigid part hood as a support structure provides the desired stability and also the possibility of integrating additional functions, such as integrated guides for cables and pipes and use as a holder or mounting option for other functional elements. The textile sheath allows a high flexibility in terms of shaping, depending on the choice of materials a very high weather resistance and easy accessibility to the coated components when providing lockable function openings.

According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the covering device, in particular if this is the coupling head on further parts of the Coupling device extends, however, formed from at least two covering sub-devices, comprising a first covering part means for enclosing the coupling head and at least one second with the first releasably connectable covering part means for enclosing a coupling head extending portion of the coupling device, preferably the entire remaining portion the coupling device in the longitudinal direction. This solution offers the advantage of being able to execute the individual cover partial devices on the one hand from different materials and / or with different dimensions. Further, the individual cover subassemblies can be individually attached to the coupling device or to each other. It is also possible, in particular for maintenance purposes, to open or remove only one covering subassembly, while the other regions of the coupling device remain enveloped by the remaining constituents of the covering device. This advantage is given in particular when the individual covering part device is subdivided into further parts.

The individual cover subassemblies each comprise connection regions for connection to the adjacent cover subdevices and / or the vehicle frame, wherein the cover subdevices are connected to one another via detachable connections. The single detachable compound is preferably carried out as a compound selected from the group of the following compounds:

- positive-locking connection

- non-positive connection

- Zipper

- Velcro connection

- Push-button connection.

The choice of the connection depends decisively on the materials used. Thus, zipper connections are usually possible only between textile cover sub-devices. The aforementioned types of connection apply analogously also to the closable openings provided in the covering device. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the first cover part device is designed as a hood for at least indirectly enclosing the outer circumference of the coupling head over at least a portion of the extension of the coupling head in the longitudinal direction and in the circumferential direction about a longitudinal axis of the coupling arrangement, wherein the hood viewed in the extension direction in the longitudinal direction in a first end portion having an opening for releasing the access to the end face of the coupling head and in a second end portion having an opening for passing parts of the coupling device. The hood is formed by a rigid support structure having means for fixed attachment / storage to the coupling assembly. In the longitudinal direction of the first end portion of the support structure, the cover has a cover member for releasing or covering the opening for releasing the access to the end face of the coupling head, which is detachably connected to the support structure. The hood is formed of metal or according to a particularly advantageous embodiment due to the associated low weight of fiber-reinforced plastic.

The support structure may be formed as a self-supporting support structure according to a first embodiment. The rigid support structure may be formed from at least two or more interconnected Hüllwänden to form the self-supporting support structure, wherein the means for fastening / storage on the coupling head or another element of the coupling device are provided on the Hüllwänden. According to a second embodiment, the support structure comprises a support frame and attached to this envelope walls. The attachment / storage means are provided on the coupling head or other member of the coupling device on the support frame.

The design of the hood as a rigid unit, which is stationary relative to the coupling device arranged on this avoids a complex kinematics for releasing the coupling head in cooperation with a coupling head of a counter coupling and allows a standardized simple storage and mounting with a standardized hood training for a variety of different coupling heads , The type of supporting structure according to the invention also offers the advantage of forming an interior space at a distance from the outer circumference of the coupling head, which accommodates the reception of Additional components, such as an electrical contact coupling allowed without these are impaired in their operation, but are also protected from environmental influences.

According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the second covering part device is furthermore formed by a supporting structure and a functional textile supported by it. The advantage is the low weight and the universal adaptation to the installation space conditions.

The Flaupteinsatzbereich for such coupling devices are rail-bound vehicles.

An alternative covering device is described in claim 24. The rail-bound vehicle having a coupling device fastened or hinged to a vehicle frame, wherein the coupling device is arranged in a one-sided open installation space bounded by the vehicle frame or a coupling shaft and wherein the coupling device is arranged longitudinally with the opening or protruding therefrom, has a covering device , This comprises a cap enclosing the coupling head in the circumferential direction and in the direction of extent in the longitudinal direction, a spoiler device arranged circumferentially about the latter in the circumferential direction, wherein a sealing device for sealing the installation space relative to the surroundings is arranged between the spoiler device and the vehicle frame.

By way of embodiments, further advantageous embodiments of the invention will be explained with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned can not only be implemented advantageously in the illustrated combination, but also individually combined with each other. The figures show in detail:

Fig.l a to 1 e show a simplified schematic representation by way of example

different installation situations of the coupling devices;

2a to 2e show a schematic simplified representation by way of example

Covering devices for the different installation situations;

Figs. 3a and 3b show modular embodiments of covering devices; 4a to 4c show a particularly advantageous embodiment of covering sub-devices of a covering device;

5a to 5c show an embodiment of the covering device as a tarpaulin top;

6a to 6c show an alternative embodiment of a covering device via an intermediate

Coupling head and vehicle frame arranged sealing device

Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of an example

Covering device with a textile covering for a coupling head;

FIGS. 8a to 8d illustrate the individual components of a covering device according to FIG. 7.

The figures are described in more detail below.

Figures 1 a to 1 e illustrate in a schematic simplified representation of basic installation situations of coupling devices 1 for rail vehicles 2 and resulting from this problem of contamination and damage from environmental influences and environmental influences. The coupling device 1 serves for coupling with a counter-coupling head of another rail-bound vehicle, wherein the individual rail-bound vehicles to vehicles with drive or free of its own drive, e.g. Waggons of a train group can act. From the rail vehicle 2, only part of a vehicle frame 6 or car body is shown here.

The coupling device 1 comprises at least one coupling head 3, which is articulated at least indirectly on a vehicle frame 6 or car body of a rail-bound vehicle and is supported on this. The coupling device 1 is formed in the illustrated case as an average buffer coupling and comprises at least one coupling head 3, which is articulated via a coupling rod 4 in a bearing block 5 on the vehicle frame 6. The embodiment of the coupling device 1 is exemplary here. The coupling device 1 is shown in a longitudinal direction of the rail-bound vehicle 2 in a longitudinal direction in the direction of extension. A longitudinal axis LK of the coupling device 1 coincides with the longitudinal direction of the rail-bound vehicle 2. The coupling device 1 extends in the longitudinal direction of a component formed by or connected to the vehicle frame 6 in the axial direction considered from this way, in particular depending on the arrangement on the rail vehicle 2 either from this forward or backward.

The coupling head 3 of the coupling device 1 serves for coupling and connecting with a counter-coupling head of a counter-coupling device to a further carriage or rail-bound vehicle to be connected to the carriage on which the coupling device 1 is arranged.

As viewed in the vehicle longitudinal direction, the bearing block 5 is arranged and fastened by way of example on a component of the vehicle frame 6 extending in the vertical direction or with this component connected thereto. The normally available installation space is characterized by the vehicle frame 6 or car body and here not shown conversions and extensions in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis of the clutch LK. As a result, the coupling device 1 is exposed unprotected to the environmental influences, which can lead to damage and impairment of the operation due to weather-related deposits, such as snow and ice or other registered pollution just in a normal area of use of rail vehicles.

Furthermore, in the surrounding area of the coupling device 1, further devices for coupling different line connections are arranged in a tensile composite. These are, for example, couplings for coupling fluid-carrying lines, for example so-called air couplings 7 and electrical coupling devices 8. The electrical coupling device 8 and the air coupling 7 are shown here only indicated and connected to line connections 9, 10, for example, the rail-bound vehicles. 2 be guided. The lines for the air line coupling 7 are denoted by 9 and the lines for the electrical coupling device 8 with 10.

Recognizable in Figure 1 a is only one positioned in the longitudinal direction of the rail vehicle, formed on the vehicle frame or connected thereto and extending in the vertical direction aligned connection area for the attachment or articulation of the coupling device 1 at this. The connection area extending in the vertical direction can here from a vehicle frame part 1 1 are formed. The projecting from this connection portion of the coupling device 1 is either completely free or is viewed in the longitudinal and circumferential direction at least partially surrounded by the vehicle arranged conversions. However, these do not form a clearly defined area of space.

1 b shows the arrangement and articulation of a coupling device 1, in which the vehicle frame 6 can define the installation space 17 in the longitudinal direction of the coupling device 1 as well as over a partial area in the circumferential direction. This is schematically simplified by a longitudinally extending vehicle frame part 12 illustrates. The vehicle frame part 12 can either protect only the coupling device 1 by forming a distance in a vertical upward direction or can additionally enclose the coupling device 1 over a partial area in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis LK to form a distance. The vehicle frame part 11 is preferably integral with the vehicle frame part

I l formed or connected to this.

In the installation situations illustrated in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, the coupling device 1 is not guided through vehicle frame parts. Compared to these installation situations shown in Figures 1 a and 1 b, Figure 1 c shows a mounting situation in which the articulation and coupling of the coupling device 1 via the bracket 5 on the vehicle frame 6 is not carried out in the longitudinal direction respectively outermost vehicle frame part 1 1, but by this is passed. In this case, the articulation or support via the bearing block 5 takes place at a connected to the vehicle frame and offset in the axial direction relative to the Fahrzeugrahmenendbereich component, such as the vehicle frame part 13 in the form of an intermediate plate. This is the vehicle frame part

I I provided with a passage 15 for performing the coupling device 1.

FIG. 1 d illustrates an embodiment in which the coupling device 1 is surrounded or enveloped by the vehicle frame 6 in the manner of a coupling shaft 18 that is open at least on one side. It is also conceivable, but not shown here, only a relation to the influences of the wheel region of the vehicle covering lower plate on the vehicle frame 6, wherein the installation space 17 for the coupling device 1 in This case is defined by the lower plate or the lower floor 14, an axially arranged vehicle frame part 11 and any conversions, installations.

Preferably, according to FIG. 1 d, a coupling shaft 18 is provided or formed by the vehicle frame 6. This encloses the coupling device 1 in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the clutch LK in the circumferential direction and is designed with a one-sided opening 16, from which the coupling device 1 protrudes. The installation space 17 is defined by the coupling shaft 18 in this case. In the embodiment of the vehicle frame 6, the coupling shaft 18 is formed, for example, by vehicle frame parts 11, 12, and an underbody 14 forming frame part.

FIG. 1 e illustrates an installation situation on the basis of an embodiment according to FIG. 1 d, wherein additionally an access to the coupling device 1 in the vertical direction is given from the underside. The access is shown here by way of example by at least one opening 19.

About the passage 15, the openings 16 and 19 is given an access for dirt or snow / ice to the coupling device 1. This access is indicated in FIGS. 1 d, 1 e by way of example by means of reinforced arrows.

FIGS. 2a to 2e illustrate, by way of example for the possible installation situations, advantageous embodiments of covering devices 20 for the coupling device 1 when used in rail-bound vehicles 2. The covering devices 20 in FIGS. 2a to 2e are reproduced in a schematically simplified representation with regard to the covering function. With regard to detailed explanations reference is made to further figures and embodiments. FIGS. 2a to 2e illustrate only basic principles for the formation of the covering device 20.

The individual covering device 20 according to the invention is designed and arranged such that the coupling device 1 in the direction of the coupling longitudinal axis LK viewed from the coupling head 3 to the articulation or attachment to the vehicle frame 6 or passage 19 on the vehicle frame 6 or under close enclosure over at least a portion in the circumferential direction the coupling device 1, preferably completely in the circumferential direction enclose and thus protect the coupling device 1 with respect to the installation space 17 penetrating dirt particles or other confounding factors. In this case, the covering device 20 according to FIG. 2a is fastened directly to the vehicle frame 6, while in the embodiment according to FIG. 2b attachment takes place only on the bearing block 5 and thus of the coupling device 1 itself. Figures 2a and 2b show embodiments in which the cover 20 is formed from two cover sub-devices 21 and 22, wherein a first covering part means 21 receives the coupling head 3 and this is formed circumferentially enclosing and the covering part means 22 the Coupling rod 4 and the bearing block 5 receives and encloses it. The attachment of the cover 20 takes place in Figure 2b directly on the bearing block 5, which is connected to the vehicle frame part 11.

The cover device 20 according to FIGS. 2a and 2b comprises the respective cover part devices 21 and 22, wherein these are formed in one or more parts.

FIG. 2c illustrates the embodiment of the covering device 20 from the cover subassemblies 21 and 22 for an installation situation according to FIG. 1 b. This also applies analogously to FIG. 2 d, which reflects the installation situation according to FIG. FIG. 2e shows the installation situation according to FIG. 1c. In this embodiment, the connection of the covering part device 22 to the vehicle frame 6 takes place in the region of the passage 15. In this embodiment, the coupling device 1 is only partially enclosed by the cover due to the passage of a partial region through the passage.

Concepts are preferably used in which the coupling device 1 is completely enclosed in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis of the coupling LK, wherein the enclosing takes place either in the immediate spatial proximity to the outer circumference of the respective elements of the coupling device 1 or to form a predefined distance therefrom. With regard to the specific embodiment of the cover 20, a variety of designs is conceivable. In all embodiments, preferably in the region of the axial extension of the covering device 20, ie the extension of the coupling head 3, preferably the end face 27 of the coupling head 3 in the longitudinal direction of the coupling device 1 viewed in the cover 20 at least one closable opening 26th is provided, which allows access to components of the coupling device in the extension region in the longitudinal direction for maintenance purposes without disassembly of the cover 20 required. This opening 26 is preferably arranged in the installed position on the underside of the coupling device 1. Other arrangements, for example, the side of the coupling longitudinal axis are also conceivable. The opening 26 is schematically indicated here in FIGS. 2a to 2e by means of a broken line.

The covering device 20, which consists of at least the covering sub-devices 21 and 22, may also be of modular design and wherein the individual covering sub-devices 21 and 22 are likewise subdivided once again in terms of their execution in sub-areas and formed by individual elements to be coupled together can be. According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the covering device 20 is further also formed with a passage 26 which makes it possible to allow access to the coupling device 1 for certain maintenance work, but without having to completely remove the covering device 20.

The possibility of a modular construction is shown by way of example in FIGS. 3a and 3b. It can be seen according to Figure 3a, the formation of the cover 20 from the cover sub-devices 21 and 22, in which case a precise function assignment of the covering part 21 to the coupling head 3 and the covering part means 22 to the remaining part of the coupling device, in particular to the coupling rod and the bearing block he follows. In contrast, FIG. 3b shows an embodiment of the cover subassemblies 21 and 22, wherein the cover subunit 22 is divided once again into the subassemblies 22.1 and 22.2. The assignment is made here functionally to the coupling rod at the covering part device 22.1 and the covering part device 22.2 to the bearing block.

FIGS. 4a to 4c show, by way of example, a particularly advantageous embodiment of a modular design according to FIG. 3b. In principle, the individual cover partial devices 21, 22.1, 22.2 can be embodied differently in all modular designs, in particular may consist of different materials. It is conceivable to design each of the individual cover partial devices as a flexible structure. On the other hand it is also conceivable to carry out the cover sub-devices as rigid enclosures. Also mixed combinations in modular stringing are conceivable. According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the covering part means 21 are designed to cover the coupling head 3 as a rigid envelope, in particular hood 25 and the covering part 22.2 as a rigid flange, while the covering part means 22.1 is designed as a flexible structural unit, in particular textile covering. The hood 25 can be made either as a metal hood or plastic, in particular fiber-reinforced plastic. The flexible structural unit is preferably designed as an elastic shell. This can be made of a functional textile, which is embodied via a corresponding support structure, which is formed from individual support elements. The support structure is preferably formed from support elements which are guided in the longitudinal direction and which can be rigid or flexible.

FIGS. 4a to 4c illustrate, with reference to two views, the structure of the individual covering subassemblies 21, 22.1, 22.2 in a somewhat more detailed representation.

FIG. 4a shows the covering subassembly 21. This serves to receive the coupling head 3. In the case shown, the covering subdevice 21 is preferably designed as a hood, which surrounds the outer circumference 24 of the coupling head 3 over at least a partial region, here completely the extent of the coupling head 3 in the longitudinal direction of the end face 27 to the coupling rod 4, viewed in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis LK of the coupling device 1 surrounds. The hood 25 has in the extension direction in the longitudinal direction viewed in a first end region of an opening 28 for releasing the access to the end face 27 of the coupling head 3 and in a second end region an opening 29 for passing parts of the coupling device 1. The hood 25 is here formed by a rigid support structure 30 having means for fixed attachment / storage on the coupling device 1. The hood 25 encloses in the illustrated case not only the coupling head 3, but also the other arranged on the coupling head functional elements such as air clutch 7 and / or electrical coupling device 8 in the circumferential direction. That is, the hood 25 surrounds the coupling head in the circumferential direction with the formation of a distance to the outer circumference 24 of the coupling head 3 in places. The intermediate space thus formed serves to accommodate further functional devices. The rigid support structure 30 serves the holding of the corresponding the coupling head 3 and the other functional elements enclosing enclosure. Furthermore, a cover 31 is provided. This serves to release or cover the opening 28 for releasing the access to the end face 27 of the coupling head 3. The cover 31 is preferably detachably connected to the support structure 30. It can also be designed to be pivotable with respect to this.

According to a first, not shown here in detail training, the support structure 30 is formed as a self-supporting structure, which is formed from at least two or more interconnected Hüllwänden to form this self-supporting support structure and the means for mounting / storage on the coupling head 3 or another element the coupling device 1 are provided on the Hüllwänden. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the support structure 30 has a supporting frame, not shown here, to which the enveloping walls 32 for enclosing the coupling head 3 and the functional devices 7, 8 are fastened. The enveloping walls 32 define an interior for receiving the coupling head 3 and the functional devices air clutch 7 and / or electrical coupling device 8. The means for attaching / storing the coupling head 2, 3 or another element of the coupling device 1, for example, the downstream coupling rod 4 or Interface to this, are then preferably provided on the support frame. In the case shown, since it is a modular construction of the entire cover device 20, the covering part means 21 forms an interface in the frontal region directed towards the downstream parts of the coupling arrangement, in particular connection region 33 for coupling with the further covering part device 22, in particular the sub-device 22.1. In the case illustrated, this cover subassembly 22.1 is designed as a flexible structure, in particular in the manner of a bellows device, comprising a connection region 34 for coupling to the cover subassembly 21, in particular in FIG Furthermore, the covering subassembly 22.1 comprises a connection region 35 directed away from the coupling head 3 for detachable connection to the covering subassembly 22.2. The cover subassembly 22.2 comprises a connection region 36 for coupling to the cover subdevice 22.1 and furthermore a connection region 37 for coupling with The cover subassembly 22.2 is formed either in the partial region of the bearing device, in particular of the bearing block 5 in the circumferential direction enclosing this, which may be arranged on this or arranged on the connected to the bearing block 5 component, in particular vehicle frame 6.

With regard to the specific design of the individual connection regions 33, 34, 35, 36 and 37, there are a plurality of possibilities which are also dependent on the configuration of the individual cover subassemblies 21, 22.1, 22.2 and their choice of material.

The connection regions 34 and 35 can be formed by rigid elements. These are each formed complementary to the respective connection regions 33, 36 on the covering part device 21 and the covering part device 22.2. In the case shown, a lightweight construction in the form of a textile covering which is held in shape via corresponding support structures is provided in a particularly advantageous manner between the two connection regions 34 and 35. The textile sheath is designed in the manner of a hose and is formed by a functional textile, which may have special properties. For example, this water repellent, as well as certain fire protection requirements can be carried out accordingly. The shaping takes place via a corresponding support structure 38, which is formed from individual support elements 39. The support structure 38 is preferably formed from support elements 39 guided on longitudinally extending guide elements 40, which may be rigid or flexible. In detail, the support elements 39, for example, as profile elements in the manner of square or rectangular shaped wire elements running along a rail between the first terminal portion 34 and the second terminal portion 35 feasible. The rails 40 forming rails may be formed by rigid or flexible elements, which allow a superposition of the individual support members 39 in the collapsed state in the axial direction. It is possible to perform at least one of the support members 39 reinforced. This is designated 41. This can be provided with an opening 42 through which at least one line connection of one of the functional devices 7, 8 is feasible. In addition, it is conceivable the support structure for the formation of intermediate brackets, for example, for lines of Functional facilities to use. However, the intermediate brackets can also be provided alternatively or optionally in addition to the coupling device 1.

The covering subassembly 22.2 is embodied here merely as a flange element surrounding the bearing block 5, comprising a connection region 37 for connection to the vehicle frame and an interface region 36 for coupling to the connection region 35 of the covering subassembly 22.1. Preferably, the cover part device 22.2 is designed as a metal frame. This can alternatively be attached to the bearing block 5.

The embodiments shown in FIGS. 4 a to 4 c are exemplary and represent an advantageous combination of flexible and rigid covering subassemblies for forming the covering device 20. It is also conceivable in general to design the covering subassembly 22 as a rigid construction. However, this often leads to increased weight, which is why at least for the covering part means 22 and 22.1 on lightweight structures, preferably textile structures with carrier structures in lightweight construction, recourse. These also make it possible to minimize the weight significantly and can be used flexibly.

The respective connection between the individual cover subassemblies 21 and 22 or 22.1 and 21 and 22.1 and 22.2 can be designed in various ways. Preferably, however, easily detachable but durable connections and fasteners are used, but are less susceptible to interference when using the clutch. As a particularly advantageous embodiments fasteners with snaps or zippers are used, for example, which allow easy release, but again a quick means of attachment.

FIGS. 5a to 5c illustrate a further embodiment in which, in particular in an installation situation with a given cover over the underside of the vehicle, only partial enclosure of the coupling device 1 is realized by means of a flexible structural unit in the form of a tarpaulin hood 43. This is formed by a functional textile in the form of a tarpaulin 44, which can be pulled on both sides of the coupling longitudinal axis LK arranged on the coupling device 1 guides 45 support members 46. FIGS. 5a to 5c illustrate this Tarpaulin hood 43 in three views. It is particularly advantageous that the tarpaulin top 43 only has to be pulled over a partial area in the longitudinal direction of the coupling arrangement.

In contrast, FIGS. 6a to 6c illustrate an alternative embodiment of a covering device 20, as is given in particular for installation situations with coupling shaft 18, that is to say a space 17 enveloping the coupling device 1 in the circumferential direction. In the case of such coupling shaft structures, which already completely protect the coupling devices 1 viewed in the circumferential direction in the longitudinal direction, it is only necessary to enable a cover in the region of the end face 27 of the coupling arrangement. The embodiment according to FIGS. 6a to 6c proposes to form the coupling head 3 with a corresponding cover part device 21, as has already been described in FIG. 4a. This means that the coupling head is to be completely encapsulated as far as possible and provided on this spoiler element 47, preferably in the circumferential direction completely on the outer periphery 48 of the cover 21 circumferential spoiler element 47, which has a coupling shaft 18 facing surface 49. The spoiler 47 extends in the circumferential direction in each case in the radial direction of the enclosure of the coupling head 3 away and parallel to the end face of the coupling shaft 18, wherein between the coupling shaft 18 forming structures and the spoiler 47, a sealing device 50 is provided. As a result, the entire space enclosed by the coupling shaft 18 is sealed by the sealing device 50 and the spoiler 47 against dirt and snow.

The embodiments shown in the figures represent advantageous embodiments. However, the solution according to the invention is not limited thereto. It is crucial that, if possible, the coupling device 1 from the coupling head 3, that is, in particular from the dome area, to the articulation on the vehicle frame 6 or a passage 15 on the vehicle frame 6 is covered. Covering means essentially wrapping in the circumferential direction, so that no access to dirt and snow is possible to the individual parts of the coupling assembly 1.

In each of the stated embodiments, it is provided according to a particularly advantageous embodiment, at least one access opening 26 in the single cover device 20, in particular covering part device 21 or 22 or 22.1, install, to get here possibly on line connections of the air coupling 7 and / or the electrical contact coupling 8 or perform other functional and maintenance work.

For example, in order to make the sheath reproduced in FIG. 4b particularly flexible, it may be provided with corresponding fastening elements in the region of the connection regions 34, 35. In addition, the envelope may also be separable in the longitudinal direction, that is, in order to be able to remove it completely, it is conceivable on the one hand to open the envelope in the longitudinal direction and to detach the attachment over a partial area of the connection regions 34, 35 or else to completely remove this to make this 21 without a disassembly of the other covering parts 21 and 22.2.

FIG. 7 illustrates in a perspective view a coupling device 1 with a covering device 20, which is designed as a hood 51 enclosing only the coupling head 3, which in the direction of extension of the coupling device 1 viewed in the longitudinal direction has an opening in a first end region 52 for opening the access to Front side of the coupling head 3 and in a second end portion 53 has an opening for passing parts of the coupling device 1. To this end, according to FIG. 8d, the hood 51 has a support structure 55 with an interface 56, 57 or devices for stationary attachment / storage on the coupling head 3 and / or a component connected thereto and a textile covering 58 enclosing the coupling head 3 and supported by the support structure 55 on. The latter is flexible and can be adapted to local conditions in a cost-effective and simple way. In the case illustrated, the support structure 55 consists of a rigid part hood 59 according to FIG. 8a. This comprises a, the first interface 56 with the front end portion of the coupling head 1 forming frame member 60 and a second interface 57 forming the holding means 61. The frame member 60 is shown in Figure 8b and surrounds the coupling head 3 in the circumferential direction over a portion. It can be fastened via fastening devices, not shown, for example, screw connections on the coupling head 3. The holding device 61 is reproduced by way of example in FIG. 8c. This is designed as a plate-shaped element and comprises through holes 62 for the coupling device, in particular coupling rod 4 and 63 for other functional devices, such as cables or lines. The Flaltereinrichtung 61 is connected to the frame member 60 via at least one connecting element 64, here a

Part hood sheet member connected to form the rigid part cap 59. About this, the textile sheath 58 is guided in Figure 8e and can be attached to this. The type and arrangement of the attachment can be done in various ways. Preferably, easily releasable designs are selected. Conceivable, for example, push buttons or Velcro closures.

The cap 51 is closed at the end by means of a cover 54.

LIST OF REFERENCES

1 coupling device

2 rail-bound vehicle; dare

3 coupling head

4 coupling rod

5 bearing block

6 vehicle frame

7 air coupling

8 electric clutch, electric contact coupling

9 line; line connection

10 line; line connection

11 vehicle frame part

12 vehicle frame part

13 vehicle frame part

14 lower plate

15 implementation

16 opening

17 installation space

18 coupling shaft

19 opening

20 covering device

21 covering part device

22 cover part device

22.1, 22.2 cover subassembly

23 outer circumference coupling device

24 outer circumference Coupling head

25 hood

26 opening area on covering device

27 front coupling head

28 opening

29 opening

30 support structure hood 31 cover element

32 envelope wall

33 connection area

34 connection area

35 connection area

36 connection area

37 connection area

38 support structure

39 supporting element

40 leadership

41 reinforced support element

42 opening

43 Tarp cover

44 tarpaulins

45 leadership

46 support element

47 spoilers

48 outer circumference of the covering part means 21

49 area

50 sealing device

51 hood

52 first end area

53 second end region

54 cover element

55 support structure

56 first interface

57 second interface

58 textile wrapping

59 rigid partial hood

60 frame element

61 holder device

62 passage opening

63 passage opening

64 connection element

LK clutch longitudinal axis

Claims

claims

1. Coupling device (1) for a rail-bound vehicle (2) for connection to a mating coupling device of another rail-bound vehicle, wherein the coupling device (1) is characterized by an extension in the longitudinal direction along a theoretical coupling longitudinal axis (LK) and in the coupling head (1) remote from the vehicle-side end region has an interface for articulation or attachment to the vehicle frame of the rail-bound vehicle (2);

a coupling head (3) for coupling with a coupling head of the mating coupling device;

with a cover (20) for protection against environmental and environmental influences, which at least partially surrounds the coupling head (3); characterized,

in that the covering device (20) is designed and arranged such that only the coupling head (3) or the coupling device (1) extends at least partially over the extension of the coupling device (1) in the longitudinal direction and in the circumferential direction about the coupling longitudinal axis (LK), at least in partial regions a distance to the outer periphery of the coupling device (1) to enclose.

2. Coupling device (1) according to claim 1

characterized,

in that the coupling device (1) comprises at least one coupling rod (4) connected to the coupling head (3), which can be articulated thereto via a bearing device fastened to the vehicle frame (6) or can be supported on it by means of a clamping yoke arrangement.

3. Coupling device (1) according to claim 1 or 2

characterized,

in that the covering device (20) has at least one device for fastening on the coupling head (3) or a component connected thereto at its coupling head-side end region

and the covering device (20) has at its vehicle-side end region a device for fastening to at least one of the following components:

- on the vehicle frame (6) or a component connected to it - on the coupling head (3) - on the coupling rod (4)

- At the coupling device (1) or a component connected thereto.

4. Coupling device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3,

characterized,

the covering device (20), viewed over the longitudinal direction of the coupling device (1), has at least one closeable opening (26) for opening access to the coupling device (1) in the longitudinal direction of the coupling device (1).

5. Coupling device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4

characterized,

in that the covering device (20) is designed to extend in the longitudinal direction of the coupling device from the end face (27) of the coupling head (3) over the entire extent of the coupling device (1) in the longitudinal direction.

6. Coupling device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5,

characterized,

in that the covering device (20), viewed over its extent in the longitudinal direction, forms the coupling device (1) completely in the circumferential direction, at least in partial regions.

7. Coupling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims

characterized,

in that the covering device (20) is at least partially formed by a flexible structure.

8. Coupling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized, in that the covering device (20) is at least partially formed by a functional textile, formed from chemical fibers, natural fibers or a blended fabric made from these.

9. Coupling device (1) according to claim 8,

characterized,

the subregion of the covering device (20) formed by the functional textile obtains its shape in the installed position by clamping when the covering device (20) is fastened to the coupling device (1) itself or the coupling device and the vehicle frame.

10. Coupling device (1) according to one of claims 7 to 9,

characterized,

the partial region of the covering device (20) formed by the flexible structure, in particular functional textile, is supported by a supporting structure (30, 38, 55) arranged on the coupling device (1).

11. Coupling device (1) according to claim 10,

characterized,

the support structure (38) comprises at least one guide device (40) and support elements (39) arranged on the latter or capable of being guided in the longitudinal direction and supporting the functional textile on the inner circumference, and

in that the cover device (20) comprises a cover (44) which at least partially surrounds the coupling device (1) in the circumferential direction about the coupling longitudinal axis (LK) and which guides (40) and guides (40) arranged on the coupling device (1) via a support structure (38) the guides (40) feasible support elements (39) on the coupling device (1) is mounted.

12. Coupling device (1) according to claim 10,

characterized,

in that the covering device (20) comprises a hood (51) enclosing only the coupling head (39) in the longitudinal direction in a first end region (52) has an opening for access to the end face (27) of the coupling head (3) and a second end region (53) has an opening for passing through parts of the coupling device (1), wherein the hood (51) comprises the support structure (55) with means for fixed attachment / storage on the coupling head (3) and / or a component connected thereto and a textile covering (3) surrounding the coupling head (3) and supported by the support structure (55). 58);

and the cover means (20) in the first end portion comprises a cover member (54) for releasing or covering the opening for releasing access to the end face (27) of the coupling head (3) which is detachably connected to the support structure (55).

13. Coupling device (1) according to claim 12,

characterized,

in that the support structure (55) is designed as a rigid part hood (59) which can be connected to the coupling head (3) and encloses it over a partial area in the circumferential direction, comprising the coupling head (3) over a partial area in the circumferential direction in the front end area and enclosing it fastenable frame element (60) and a in the vehicle side end portion of the coupling head (3) or on the associated coupling rod (4) attachable holder member (61), wherein frame member (60) and holder member (61) via intermediate elements (64) with each other to form the Part hood (59) are connected.

14. Coupling device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13

characterized,

in that the covering device (20) is formed from at least two covering sub-devices (21, 22, 22.1, 22.2), comprising a first covering sub-device (21) for enclosing the coupling head (3) and a second covering device releasably connectable to the first Parting device (22) for enclosing a coupling head (3) extending portion of the coupling device (1), preferably the remaining portion of the coupling device (1) in the longitudinal direction.

15. Coupling device (1) according to claim 14,

characterized, the second covering subassembly (22) comprises at least two subdevices (22.1, 22.2).

16. Coupling device (1) according to one of claims 14 or 15,

characterized,

in that the individual covering subassemblies (21, 22) respectively comprise connecting regions for connecting to the adjacent covering subdevices (22, 21) and / or the vehicle frame (6) and the covering subdevices (21, 22) are connected to one another via detachable connections are, wherein the single releasable compound is carried out as a compound selected from the group of the following compounds:

- positive-locking connection

- non-positive connection

- Zipper

- Velcro connection

- Push-button connection.

17. Coupling device (1) according to any one of claims claim 14 to 16,

characterized,

in that the first cover partial device (21) as a hood (51) for at least indirectly enclosing the outer circumference (24) of the coupling head (3) over at least a partial region of the extension of the coupling head (3) in the circumferential direction about a longitudinal axis (LK) Coupling device (1) is formed, wherein the hood (51) viewed in the longitudinal direction in a first end an opening for opening access to the end face (27) of the coupling head (3) and in a second end region an opening for passing parts the coupling device (1), wherein the hood (51) is designed according to one of claims 12 or 13.

18. Coupling device (1) according to any one of claims claim 14 to 16,

characterized, in that the first cover part device (21) as a hood (25) for at least indirectly enclosing the outer circumference (27) of the coupling head (3) over at least a portion of the extension of the coupling head (3) in the circumferential direction about a longitudinal axis (LK)

Coupling device (1) is formed, wherein the hood (25) viewed in the longitudinal direction in the longitudinal direction in a first end region of an opening (28) for releasing the access to the end face (27) of the

Coupling head (3) and in a second end portion having an opening (28) for passing through parts of the coupling device (1), wherein the hood (51) by a rigid support structure (30) is formed, which means for fixed attachment / storage at the Coupling device (1) and the cover (20) in the longitudinal direction of the first end portion of the support structure (30) a cover member (31) for releasing or covering the opening (28) for releasing the access to the end face (27) of

Coupling head (3) which is detachably connected to the support structure (30), wherein the support structure (30) is a self-supporting support structure, in particular that the rigid support structure of at least two or more interconnected Hüllwänden (32) formed to form a self-supporting support structure is and the means for fastening / storage on the coupling head (3) or another element of the coupling device (1) on the enveloping walls (32) are provided

or

the support structure (32) comprises a support frame and envelope walls (32) attached thereto and the means for attachment / storage to the coupling head (3) or other element of the coupling device (1) are provided on the support frame.

19. Coupling device (1) according to one of claims 14 to 18,

characterized,

in that the second covering subassembly (22) is formed by a supporting structure and a functional textile supported by it.

20. Rail-bound vehicle with a coupling device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 19.

21. Rail-bound vehicle according to claim 20,

characterized,

in that the covering device (20) with its vehicle-side end region directly on the bearing device (5) or on the vehicle frame (6) or a component forming a passage (15) for the coupling device (1)

Vehicle frame (6) is attached.

22. Rail-bound vehicle with a on a vehicle frame (6) attached or articulated coupling device (1), wherein the coupling device (1) in one of the vehicle frame or a

Coupling shaft (18) limited unilaterally open installation space (17) is arranged, wherein the coupling device (1) in the longitudinal direction with the opening is final or outstanding and a cover (20) is provided, comprising a coupling head (3) in the circumferential direction and in the extension direction in the longitudinal direction enclosing

A cap (25, 51), a spoiler device (47) arranged on the outer circumference of the cap (25, 51) in the circumferential direction, wherein a sealing device (50) for sealing the installation space (17) is provided between the spoiler device (47) and the vehicle frame (6). is arranged opposite the environment.