WO2012100929A1

WO2012100929A1 - Trailer coupling

Info

Publication number: WO2012100929A1
Application number: PCT/EP2012/000275
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lambert Hendrik DE KOCK; Stuart James TERRELL
Original assignee: Westfalia-Automotive Gmbh
Priority date: 2011-01-24
Filing date: 2012-01-23
Publication date: 2012-08-02
Also published as: MX2013008487A; MX340201B; DE102011009306A1; AU2012210757A1; AU2012210757A8; AU2012210757B2; NZ613386A

Abstract

The invention relates to a trailer coupling for a motor vehicle (18), in particular a passenger motor vehicle, with a main holder (11a-11e) which is fittable or is fitted securely to the vehicle, and a coupling arm, at the free end of which a dome element (14) is arranged for the coupling of a trailer and which, in a use position (G), protrudes to the rear of the motor vehicle (18), wherein the coupling arm is fastenable releasably to the main holder (11a-11e) or is mounted movably between the use position (G) and a non-use position (N) moved towards the motor vehicle (18). In the trailer coupling, the coupling arm for connection to the main holder (11a-11e) has a holder part, which is fixable to the main holder (11a-11e) by means of a main holder fixing device (26a-26e), and a dome part (13a-13c; 13e) on which the dome element (14) is arranged, wherein the holder part (12a-12e) and the dome part (13a-13c; 13e) are connectable releasably to each other by means of a connecting device which serves as an arm connecting device (55a-55c; 55e) and has a first connecting body (57) and a second connecting body (58)which is connectable releasably to the first connecting body (57).

Description

Towing

The invention relates to a towing hitch for a motor vehicle, in particular a passenger motor vehicle, with a vehicle mountable or mounted base holder, and a coupling arm, at the free end of a coupling element is arranged for coupling a trailer and projecting in a position of use to the rear in front of the motor vehicle wherein the coupling arm is releasably securable or movably mounted to the base holder between the use position and a non-use position moved toward the motor vehicle.

A towing hitch for a motor vehicle has, for example, a fixed coupling arm, at the free end of which a coupling element, for example a coupling ball, is arranged for coupling a trailer. In addition to quite common to find the types in which the coupling arm is fixed, so-called removable coupling arms are common, which can be removed when not in use of basic holder, or coupling arms, for example, are pivotally mounted on the base holder so that they are between a position of use, in the they protrude to the rear in front of a bumper of the motor vehicle, in a non-use position, for example in the direction of the body, hidden by the bumper are adjustable.

CONFIRMATION COPY Although such trailer hitches may suffice for a variety of application cases, for example, when usually a trailer are pulled and this is to be rotatably ball-joint rotatable with a so-called ball coupling on the coupling element. However, difficulties occur, for example, when a load carrier to be attached to the spherical coupling element instead of a trailer to. At the spherical coupling element of the load carrier can be secured reasonably secure only with a complex clamping mechanism or clamping mechanism. Nevertheless, the security against rotation is always problematic.

Furthermore, the production cost of typical towbars is quite high, since for each vehicle type usually an individual coupling arm must be made, which is the geometric conditions at the rear of the vehicle fair. The base holder is regularly arranged on a arranged behind the rear bumper cross member, the coupling arm from the base holder on the rear bumper should extend past the vehicle in front.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide an op timierte, suitably produced conveniently, trailer coupling.

To solve the problem is provided in a trailer coupling of a type initially mentioned, that the coupling arm for connection to the base holder a fixable to the base holder of a base holder fixing part and a dome part, on which the coupling element is arranged, wherein the holder part and the dome part can be detachably connected to one another by means of a connection device serving as an arm connection device, which connection element has a first connection body and a second connection element with which Th connecting body has releasably connectable connector body.

One aspect of the invention is that the coupling arm is multi-part, i. he has a fastened to the base holder part and a dome part on which in turn the coupling element is arranged. Thus, each component of the coupling arm has an individual function. The holder part can be configured optimally for the adaptation with the basic holder. The dome part in turn may have individual geometries, adapted to the particular application coupling element and the like. So if an adaptation to other requirements is necessary, for example, another coupling element is needed, only the dome part must be replaced.

The production cost is significantly reduced because, for example, the basic configuration of base holder and holder part for many types of vehicles can be made similar and the adaptation to the respective vehicle type via the individual dome part. Of course, similar dome parts can be used for different types of vehicles, where each individual base holder and / or holder parts are used.

The e.g. movably mounted clutch arm is advantageous in the non-use position behind a bumper of the

Motor vehicle arranged. In any case, it is advantageous if the coupling arm is covered in the non-use position substantially against view.

The hitch according to the invention is therefore extremely flexible in the production, installation and use. At the same time, a starting basis for an expedient development of the invention is given, in which the trailer coupling has a load carrier adapter part which, for connection to the holder part, has a connection body suitable for the connection body of the holder part and is connected or connectable to a load carrier, which carries a carrying area a load. Thus, therefore, the dome part can be replaced by a load carrier adapter part that allows optimal connection with a load carrier.

The load carrier adapter part may form part of a load carrier, i. that the load carrier, as it were, by means of the with him e.g. firmly connected load carrier adapter part can be connected directly to the holder part.

At this point, it should be noted that, of course, a connector body matching the holder part can be provided directly on a load carrier, so that the load carrier is fastened directly to the holder part or the arm connection device.

The holder part and / or the load carrier adapter part and / or the dome part expediently have an arm-like and / or rod-like shape. The holder part and / or the load carrier adapter part and / or the dome part can have a completely or partially curved course and / or straight running sections or also run overall straight.

When the holder part and / or the load carrier adapter part have a rod-like, bar-shaped or arm-like shape (also in combination with one another), this has the advantage that an arm provided for carrying the load carrier is located, for example, at the rear in front of a rear bumper of the force protrudes vehicle, so that the arranged on the arm connection body of the load carrier connecting device easily accessible and the load carrier is easy to install.

Although the load carrier and the load carrier adapter part can be firmly connected to each other, however, they are expediently detachable from one another. Then it is advantageous if the load carrier adapter part and the load carrier for releasable connection with each other have a load carrier connecting device.

The load carrier connection device and the arm connection device can be identical in construction and / or have a similar structure and / or each have mutually compatible components and / or mutually match one another in an expedient embodiment. But even if the components structurally slightly different, i. have mismatched components, the measures explained below are appropriate.

For example, the arm connection device and the load carrier connection device each have matching first and second connection bodies. It is understood that other connecting body may be provided. The term "connecting body" is not limited to a one-piece connecting body, but also includes multi-part connecting body.

In the following, only one connecting device will be described for simplifying the description, which may then be the arm connecting device or the load carrier connecting device or both. Conveniently, the connecting device is detachable and / or closable without tools. The operator can thus open or close the connecting device without an additional tool, for example a screwdriver. Alternatively, it is also possible that an operation with a tool is desired, for example, to increase theft security or security against manipulation.

It is also possible that the connecting device has one or more screws.

The first connecting body has, for example, a mounting flange. Also, the second connecting body may have a mounting flange. Appropriately, the two mounting flanges can be applied to each other. For fixing and / or connection of the two mounting flanges, for example, one or more screws and / or a suitable

Clamping mechanism or the like.

The first connecting body and the second connecting body expediently have at least one form-fitting projection and at least one form-fitting receptacle for the positive-fit retention of the two connecting bodies to one another. By way of example, the form fit receptacle is a groove, and the form fit projection is a projection which fits into the groove.

Preference is given to a form-fitting hold of the one connecting body on the other connecting body, for which purpose the connecting bodies have matching form-fitting contours.

It is expedient if form-fitting projections are provided on mutually opposite sides of the one connecting body, which can intervene in form-locking receptacles on opposite sides of the other connecting body. NEN. It is understood that in each case at least one positive locking projection can also be present on one or both opposite sides of the last-mentioned connecting body, in which case a form-fitting receptacle must then be present on the associated side of the first-mentioned connecting body.

The form-fitting projection and the form-locking receptacle expediently include dovetail contours. These allow a particularly simple, firm hold of the two connecting bodies together.

However, the connection device can also be configured at least partially as a bayonet connection device. For example, bayonet connection means can be provided on the first connection body and the second connection body. The assembly of the two connecting bodies to each other is therefore a rotary assembly.

The connecting device is expediently

lockable. Advantageously, it comprises a locking element for locking the connection between the first connecting body and the second connecting body. The locking element is mounted captively movable between a locking position and an unlocking position on the first connecting body or the second connecting body. The locking element is thus always present when it is needed. In the locking position, the locking element engages in a locking receptacle on the respectively other connecting body.

The locking element is expediently in the

Unlocking position and or the locking position latched, so that only when exposed to a pre- agreed, relatively high power can be adjusted out of its respective position.

An advantageous embodiment provides that the Verriege ment element is spring-loaded in the locking position. Thus, the locking element automatically assumes its locking position if it is not forcibly moved out of it, for example by the operator. The purpose he required spring arrangement includes, for example, a see kelfeder, a coil spring or the like.

The connecting device expediently comprises a clamping element or a clamping body with which the first connecting body can be clamped to the second connecting body.

The clamping element or the clamping body and / or the locking element are expediently operated without tools, in particular manually operated. For example, the clamping element (or the clamping body) or the locking element has an actuating handle.

Advantageous is a motor drive, e.g. an electric motor, for adjusting the holder part between the position of use and the hinbewegten to the motor vehicle non-use position available, with a manual Actuate supply is also possible.

The following statements relate to the connection between the holder part and the base holder, which can be detachable, can provide a pivotable connection, or the like.

The measures explained below can advantageously be provided for in the basic holder fixing device Of course, be used advantageously in the above-described arm connection device or load carrier connecting device.

The basic holder fixing device expediently has at least one pair of positive-locking surfaces which can be adjusted between a release position in which the interlocking surfaces are remote from one another and a fixing position of the fixing device in which the interlocking surfaces rest positively against one another. Thus, therefore, the holder part is form-fitting fixable to the base holder.

It is possible that both form-fitting surfaces are movable or only one of the two form-fitting surfaces. The movable form-fitting surface is provided, for example, on a bolt, a ball, a roller or another shaped piece or positive-locking element. Preferably, the at least one movable form-fitting surface is provided on a positive-locking body, which is movably mounted on or in the holder part.

Preferably, the base holder fixing device has a movably mounted actuating body or displacer, for example a bolt or other actuating piece or displacer, for actuating or displacing a form-fitting body into a form-locking receptacle. On the positive-locking body and the positive locking receptacle are each provided positive-locking surfaces. The positive-locking body comprises, for example, a ball, a roller or another form-fitting piece. The positive connection receptacle may comprise, for example, a groove, in particular an annular groove, a spherical cap or the like. The actuating body or displacer and / or at least one positive-fit body are expediently mounted movably on or in the holder part. It is thus possible, for example, to movably arrange an actuating body or displacer in the interior of the holder part, which in turn acts again on one or more form-fit bodies for a form-fitting hold on the base holder. It is advantageous to also store the at least one positive-fit body on the holding part or in the holder part in a movable manner. For example, from a bearing receptacle for the actuator body or

Displacer branching channels (or at least one channel) provided in which a respective form-fitting body, which is actuated or displaced by the actuating body or displacer, is movably mounted.

A detachable connection between the holder part and the base holder is expediently a plug connection. For example, the base holder has a plug-in receptacle into which a plug-in projection of the holder part can be inserted. It is understood that the holder part can also have a plug-in receptacle, so that it can be plugged onto a corresponding plug-in projection on the basic holder.

A movable connection between the holder part and the base holder can be produced, for example, by the holder part and the base holder bearing components of a

Have pivot bearing and / or a sliding bearing, so that the holder part on the base holder pivotally and / or slide - is movably mounted. Thus, the holder part can be adjusted for example from a non-use position behind a bumper of the motor vehicle in the direction of a use position in which the holder part itself, optionally the dome part or the load carrier adapter part protrude in front of the bumper, so that a trailer can be coupled or a load carrier can be attached.

Advantageously, a rotation between the holder part and base holder is provided. On the holder part and the base holder for this purpose fixed Drehsicherungsformschlusskonturen are provided, for example, triangular contours, so for example, a triangular projection and a triangular receptacle, and / or balls and spherical caps for engagement with each other. These

Anti-rotation contours can be present for example in the aforementioned "plug-in variant", but of course also in a swivel and / or sliding bearing of the holder part on the base holder.

1 shows a perspective oblique view of a trailer coupling with a means of mounting flanges fastened to a holder part or fixed, a coupling ball having dome part,

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a basic holder of the trailer coupling according to FIG. 1 along a section line A,

3 shows the hitch according to FIG. 1, but instead of the dome part with a schematically indicated load carrier, FIG.

FIG. 4 a shows a load carrier system with a load carrier and a load carrier connecting device for a torsion-proof connection of the load carrier to a load carrier adapter part arranged on a holder part, FIG. 4b shows the holder part according to FIG. 4a, but in connection with a dome part having a ball head;

4c shows a cross member with a basic holder for the holder part according to FIGS. 4a, 4b, FIG.

5a shows a section B from FIG. 4a, the load carrier connecting device being loosened, FIG.

FIG. 5b shows the detail according to FIG. 5a, but with the load carrier connection device closed,

FIG. 6 shows the load carrier connecting device according to FIG

5b obliquely from below, but with an alternative embodiment of a holder part integral with a load carrier adapter part,

FIG. 7 shows a modification of the system according to FIGS. 4 and 5, wherein an arm connection device and a load carrier connection device have identical components which are compatible with one another,

8 shows a holder part or a load carrier adapter part and a load carrier with a further possible embodiment of an easily detachable connection device, and

9 shows a pivotable trailer coupling with replaceable dome part.

In the following embodiments of systems 10a-10e, identical or similar components are provided with the same reference numerals. To clarify differences In some cases the letters a, b, c, d and e are added to the reference numbers.

The systems 10a-10e have base holders 11a to which holder parts 12a-12e are releasably securable (holder parts 12a-12d) or movably (holder part 12e).

On the holder parts 12a-12e are other components

fastened, for example, coupling parts 13a, 13b, 13c or 13e. Also on the holder part 12d a dome part could be attached, but this is not shown. At the dome parts 13 each have a coupling element 14 is provided, for example, a coupling ball. To the coupling ball, a trailer can be attached by means of a so-called ball coupling.

Thus, when the coupling parts 13a, 13b, 13c or 13e are arranged on the holder parts 12a-12e, the systems 10a-10e are formed, respectively forming coupling arms, one trailer coupling 9a, 9b, 9c, 9e for coupling a trailer.

But even the attachment of a load carrier, for example for transporting bicycles, a transport box or the like, can be carried out simply and efficiently in the systems 10a-10e, namely by the respective load carrier (for example, load carriers 16a, 16b and 16d are shown) with the respective ones Holder part is connected, in the case of the holder parts 12a, 12d directly to the holder part, in the case of the holder parts 12b, 12c and 12e by means of a load carrier adapter part 15b, 15c and 15e.

The respective connection between the holder part and load carrier, optionally with the interposition of the load carrier adapter part 15b, 15c and 15e, is easy to install, ie easily solvable or closable, but also very durable, especially against rotation. The connection quality between the vehicle and load carrier is optimal, so that the respective load carrier can be loaded with a large load. The driving safety is high.

The basic holder IIa can be fastened or fixed to a schematically illustrated cross member 17 of a vehicle 18, for example welded, screwed or glued. The base holder IIa has e.g. Mounting holes 17a. In principle, a base holder of a system according to the invention could also be an integral part of a cross member. The basic holder IIa comprises a receiving sleeve 19a with a plug-in receptacle 20 for insertion and holding of the holder part 12a. The plug-in receptacle 20 has a relatively wide insertion opening 21 and narrows towards its end region 31. The basic holder IIa consists for example of metal, in particular steel or aluminum.

The holding part 12a has a plug-in projection 22a for insertion into the plug-in receptacle 20. The plug-in projection 22a has, matching the plug-in receptacle 20, a front region 23 with a small diameter, followed by a conical region 24 and further a neck region 25. The diameter of the neck portion 25 fits the insertion opening 21.

A Grundhalter- fixing 26a includes laterally extending from the neck region 25 Drehsicherungsformschlusskonturen 27 for engagement in the base holder IIa, in particular at its insertion 21, provided Drehsicherungsformschlusskonturen 28. The Drehsicherungsformschlusskonturen 27, 28 are for example triangular or wedge-shaped and engage positively in one another when the male projection 22a in the Plug receptacle 20 is inserted, so that the holder part 12a is held against rotation on the base holder IIa.

For a high-tensile fixation and a bracing of the holder part 12a on the base holder IIa positive-locking body 29 are provided which engage in one or more form-fitting receptacles 30 in a fixing position of the base holder fixing device 26a. The positive-fit body 29 are, for example, in a conventional manner balls that are adjustable by an actuator body 32 front outer periphery of the male projection 22 a before, so that they engage in the Formschlussaufnähme (s) 30. The positive locking receptacle 30 is, for example, annular, in particular as an annular groove, configured, for example. also at least one spherical cap or another positive connection is possible. This annular groove is located at the end region 31 of the plug-in receptacle 20. For this purpose, as indicated in the drawing, for example, a ring member 30a, on which the annular groove is arranged, be arranged in the socket 20.

The actuator body 32, which may also be referred to as a displacement body, has, for example, a rod-like or bolt-like shape. At its front, the positive-fit bodies 29 facing region, the actuator body 32 has inclined surfaces 32a, so that it displaces the positive-fit body 29 radially outwardly front outer periphery of the male projection 20, when it is displaced in the direction of the positive-locking body 29 in particular linear. In this direction (arrow 33a), the actuating body 32 is advantageously spring-loaded, so that the base holder fixing device 26 is locked and fixed, so to speak, automatically.

The actuating body 32 can be actuated by means of a handle 33. With the handle 33, a pinion 34 is movable coupled or fixedly connected, which meshes with a tooth portion 35 of the actuator body 32. An operator can thus grasp and rotate the handle 33 and thus move the actuating body 32 away from the positive-fit bodies 29 (in the drawing to the left), so that they can pass back into an interior of the plug-in projection 22a in guide channels 34a and disengage arrive with the positive connection 30. Thus, the base holder fixing device 26a is unlocked.

The basic holder-fixing device 26a is advantageously closed by means of a lock 36.

From the above it is clear that for locking the holder part 12a on the base holder IIa a certain effort is needed. In particular, a main body 37a of the holder part 12a for receiving the basic holder fixing device 26a is configured and can be mechanically loaded for driving with a trailer.

Manufacturing technology, it is advantageous if the basic holder IIa and the holder part 12a are used in the described form for different types of vehicles and also advantageous the adaptation of a load carrier, if desired, is easily and conveniently possible. This is the case and will become clear below.

The present one-piece base body 37 of the holder part 12a has a base holder portion 38 for mounting on the base holder IIa, a central portion 39 and a mounting portion 40 for connection to other components, such as the dome portion 13a. At the mounting portion 40, a mounting flange 41a for connection to the dome portion 13a is present. The mounting flange 41a is plate-like, for example. The mounting flange 41a is inclined with respect to a longitudinal axis of the holder part 12a obliquely, for example obliquely back down, which is optional. It would also be possible, for example, for a right angle to the longitudinal axis mounting flange or an upwardly inclined mounting flange.

The dome part 13a has a main body 42a with a mounting plate 43a, which is provided for mounting on the mounting flange 41a. The mounting plate 43a is angled from a support plate 44, on which in turn the coupling element 14 is arranged. The coupling element 14 comprises a coupling ball 45, which is arranged on a rod-shaped support 46, for example. The carrier 46 is welded, glued or the like, for example, to the base body 42a, but in the present case inserted through an opening of the support plate 44 and screwed from below. This allows easy replacement of the coupling element 14 against another coupling element, for example, with a different geometry. The carrier 46 is supported by a flange projection on the upper side of the carrier plate 44. The coupling ball 45 protrudes upward in front of the support plate 44, so that a trailer can be coupled.

The mounting plate 43a is bolted to the mounting flange 41a. For example, four bolts 47 are inserted through holes 48 on the mounting plate 43a and the mounting flange 41a or screwed into it.

The mounting plate 43a and the carrier plate 44 are present in one piece, that is to say that they are easy to produce in terms of production, for example by bending or forming nes plate-shaped blank. It is understood that multi-part dome parts and / or multi-part body of dome parts are possible.

The connection technology, which is already present on the holder part 12a, can also be used for a load carrier. For example, it is possible to fix the load carrier 16a to the holder part 12a instead of the dome part 13a. From the load carrier 16a only a cross member 49 and an angle of this in the manner of the mounting plate 43a projecting mounting plate 50 are shown. The load carrier 16a advantageously has further components, for example those which have the load carrier 16b shown in FIG. 4a.

The load carrier 16b (or the load carrier 16a), for example, also a cross member 49, from the longitudinal member 51 angled, for example in the form of a U protrude. Thus, a carrier base is formed. On the side rails 51 support members 52, for example, grooves for transporting bicycles are pivotally mounted, wherein between an outwardly in front of the side members 51 projecting (shown in the drawing) position of use and one between the

Side members 51 are adjusted in non-use position adjustable. Of course, a transport box or the like could be placed on the side members 51. Furthermore, lights 53 are arranged on the load carrier 16 b, for example on the free end region in the side members 51. The load carrier 16b has to the still a support 54, for example, a U-bracket on which the stored on the load carrier 16b load can be fastened.

The mounting plate 50 is welded to the cross member 49, screwed or the like, for example. A simple screwing technique is also for mounting on the holder part 12a intended. Also, the mounting plate 50 has holes 48 so that it can be secured with the bolts 47 on the mounting flange 41 a.

The mounting flange 41a, the mounting plate 43a, and the bolts 47 constitute an arm connector 55a. The mounting flange 41 a, the mounting plate 50 and the bolts 47 form a load carrier connecting device 56 a. In this case, the mounting flange 41a forms a first connection body 57, the mounting plate 43a or the mounting plate 50 each have a second connection body 58 of the arm connection device 55a or the load carrier connection device 56a.

While the load carrier 16a is relatively cumbersome with the bolt 47 of the load carrier connecting device 56a fastened to the holder part 12a, the load carrier 16b by means of a load carrier connecting device 56b, which is almost a quick coupling, quickly and easily attached to the load carrier adapter part 15b and of to be solved again. It should be noted, however, that the mounting of the load carrier 16a provided with the holder part 12a on the base holder IIa is simple, since the holder part 12a only has to be inserted into the plug-in receptacle 20. This is particularly advantageous when the load carrier 16a is bulky and / or heavy.

However, the load carrier connection device 56b described below is designed as a type of quick coupling, so that it is particularly easy to operate:

The first connecting body 57 of the load carrier connecting device 56b comprises a plug head 59, which in a

Plug-in receptacle 60 of a receiving body forming the second connecting body 58 of the load carrier connecting device 56b. pers 61 is pluggable. The receiving body 61 is arranged on the cross member 49, for example, welded or the like.

The plug receptacle 60 basically has a U-shaped configuration. The plug-in receptacle 60 is bounded laterally by side sections 62 and at the top by a support section 63. One of the plug receptacle 60 facing bottom wall 64 of the support section 63 is supported on an upper support surface 68 of the plug head 59, so that the load carrier 16b receives a horizontal support.

But also about a vertical axis, i. a vertical axis, an optimal support and an optimal positive fit between the load carrier 16b and the load carrier adapter part 15b are present. For this it would already be sufficient if, for example, plane surfaces or other anti-rotation contours were present on the side sections 62. In the present case, however, form-fitting projections 65 are arranged on those side sections 61 which engage positively in the form-locking receptacles 66 on the plug-in head 59. The interlocking protrusions 65 face each other, i. towards the inside of the plug-in receptacle 60. The form-fitting receptacles 66 are arranged on mutually remote sides, namely side flanks 67 of the plug head 59. The form-fitting receptacles 66 are for example V-shaped, but suitably rounded.

The form-fitting receptacles 66 expediently extend toward one another in the direction of the upper support surface 68, ie are inclined. Of course, the course of the form-fitting projections 65 corresponds to this, ie, these also extend obliquely toward one another in the direction of the bottom wall 64. As a result, a particularly firm, positive fit of the plug head 59 in the socket 60 is possible.

The further, particularly in Figure 6 highly visible embodiment of the positive locking projections 65 and form-fitting receptacles 66 comprehensive form-fitting surface 69 contributes to the optimal support of the two connecting bodies 57,58 of the load carrier connection means 56b together, especially for preventing a Relatiwerdrehung u a vertical axis or a at least about vertical axis, eg a vertical axis H.

The plug head 59 comprises a substantially planar Stirnflä surface 70 and 2 offset thereto arranged support surfaces 71. For example, the end face 70 and the two support surfaces 71 offset parallel and / or substantially parallel to each other. The two support surfaces 71 project laterally in front of the end face 70. The support surfaces 71 bil the components of the form-fitting receptacles 66, namely one of the side edges, to which the other side edge 72 extends obliquely angular. Overall, a dovetail-like shape results.

The form-fitting surfaces of the plug-in receptacle 60 correspond to these previously explained surfaces. The end surface 70 is supported on a rear wall surface 73 which extends between the side portions 62. The side edge 72 is supported on a side surface 74 of the positive locking projections 65, which is arranged next to the rear wall surface 73.

The two side surfaces 74 run away from the rear wall surface 73, so to speak towards each other. In any case, a stirnseiti ge opening 75 of the socket 60 is less wide than the rear wall 73rd The support surfaces 71 may be supported on support surfaces 76 adjacent to the front opening 75.

The plug head 59 is thus supported not only with its end face 70, but in stages with its rear support surfaces 71 on the second connector body 58 and the socket 60 from.

The insertion of the plug head 59 in the plug receptacle 60 is advantageously facilitated by inclined surfaces, example, by the skew of the form-fitting projections 65 and the form-fitting receptacles 66 in the direction of the bottom of the socket 60, but also by inclined surfaces 77 above the plug head 59, for example, next to the support surface 68th ,

The load carrier connecting device 56b has a locking device for locking the connection between the connecting bodies 57, 58. On the second connecting body 58, a locking element 78 is movably mounted. For example, a pin 79 in a guide 80, for example, a bore, mounted on one of the side portions 62 linearly movable. In its locking position, the locking element 78 engages in a locking receptacle 81 on the plug head 59 a.

The locking receptacle 81 extends as well as the guide 80 transversely to a plug-in axis 92, along which the plug head 59 and the plug receptacle 60 are connected to each other or removed from each other. Thus, when a front, free end portion of the bolt 79 and the locking member 78 engages in the locking receptacle 81, the second connector body 58 can not be removed from the first connector body 57, so is locked. The locking receptacle 81 is formed, for example, as a groove or depression on the end face 70, wherein, of course, a hole or a blind hole are possible. The locking receptacles 81 and the locking element 78 are expediently rounded or round at least in the region of their mutually facing, mutually interacting surfaces.

For actuating the locking element 78 is an actuating lever 82 which is mounted by means of a bearing 83 pivotally mounted on the second connecting body 58 and receiving body 61. From the operating lever 82 are bearing projections 84, the bearing blocks 85 are pivotally mounted. Of course, the operating lever 82 could also be penetrated by a bearing axis. In addition to the bearing 83 are an actuating arm 88 and a Mitnehmerarm 86 from the actuating lever 82, which engages in a cam receiver 87 on the locking element 78. The actuating arm 88 and the arm 86 are for example at an angle to each other, in this case approximately at right angles. The actuating arm 88 can be gripped and pivoted by the operator, in which case the release movement or

Entriegelungsbewegung a pivoting of the actuating arm 88 provides upward. The driver arm 86 engaging in the catch receptacle 87 then pulls the bolt 79 or the locking element 78 out of the locking receptacle 81 and thus unlocks the locking device. The

Mitnehmeraufnahme 87 includes, for example, a slot 89 in which the driving arm 86 engages in the manner of a hook and is supported on a transverse to the slot 89 bolt 90.

The locking element 78 is suitably spring-loaded in the locking position. For example, a leg spring is provided, the operating lever 82 in Direction of the locking position loaded. But it is also possible that, for example, a tension spring 91, the locking element 78 directly loaded. Conveniently, the tension spring 91 is arranged protected inside the receiving body 61, which is indicated only schematically in the drawing.

It is understood that the locking element 78 may also have the function of a clamping element, for example, if its front, free end has an inclined surface which acts in the sense of wedging or jamming on the mating contour, in this case the locking receptacle 81. It would also be possible that the Verriegelungsauf ahme 81 has an inclined surface or clamping surface, which is then not necessary, but useful if the associated locking element or clamping element also has an inclined surface.

From the above it is clear that the load carrier connecting device 56a is easily unlocked by actuation of the actuating lever 82 (by lifting the actuating arm 88) and then easily released, in which the load carrier 16b is lifted off the plug head 59. The mounting of the load carrier 16b is also easy. It is plugged with its receiving body 61 on the plug head 59, wherein it is expediently provided that the locking element 78 when plugging in the direction of

Unlocked position is adjusted, for example, by sliding its free end on one of the inclined surfaces 77 along. However, active unlocking upon insertion would also be possible, in which case an operator would operate the actuation arm 88, e.g. pulls up.

Although the load carrier connecting device 56b can also be advantageously used in the case of a one-piece or one-piece holder part 12b ¹ . The embodiment according to FIG. However, gures 4 and 5 preferably the already mentioned in the first embodiment, multi-component construction of a load carrier or a coupling arm:

The holder part 12b is as the holder part 12a for a plug connection with the respective base holder, here the Grundhai ter IIb, designed. The basic holder IIb has a Aufnah mehülse 19b, which has a similar structure as the receiving sleeve 19a, so for example lateral Drehsicherungsform- contours contraction 28 has. Positive fit Drehsicherungsformschlusskontu ren 27 a basic holder-fixing 26b fit into the Drehsicherungsformschlusskonturen 28. However, the receiving sleeve 19b is not mounted in contrast to receiving sleeve 19a with a substantially horizontal orientation to the cross member 17, but has a vertical orientation. The holder part 12b is thus inserted from below into the plug-in receptacle 20 of the base holder IIb (slot 93).

The base holder fixing device 26b and the base holder fixing device 26c are based on the same concept as the base holder fixing device 26a, so that reference can be made to the above embodiments.

For example, an actuating body 32 is arranged in the interior of a plug projection 22b of the holder part 12b, 12b 'and 12c, the positive-locking body, for example balls, displace by guide channels 34a radially outwardly in front of the outer periphery of the plug projection 22b, where they then in corresponding, in the Receiving sleeve 19b arranged form-fitting receptacles, in particular an annular groove or at least a spherical cap or the like, can penetrate. In the holder parts 12 b, 12 b ¹ , 12 c are provided for actuating the actuator should account body 32 actuating means, for example a schematically arranged handle, which acts on a toothed portion on the respective actuating body 32 via a pinion, not shown.

While the holder part 12b ^{1 is} a one-piece holder part, the systems 10b and 10c are based on a two-part concept in which either a coupling part 13b or 13c can be fastened to the holder part 12b or 12c by means of an arm connection device 55b or 55c.

If the holder part 12b ¹ would be divided, for example, in the region of a cutting line 94, for example, a bayonet connection between the two parts would be expedient, so that by a rotary motion 95 the front portion (corresponding to a dome part or a load carrier adapter part) at the rear portion, namely actual holder part 12b 'could fix releasably within the meaning of the invention. An additional lock, for example by a bolt, a cross pin or the like, can additionally secure the lock.

The arm connector 55b includes a mounting flange 41b located at a front, free end 96 of the retainer 12b. The mounting flange 41b protrudes laterally in front of the outer periphery of the free end of the 96, so that a large-area support for a mounting flange 43b on the dome part 13b or load carrier adapter part 15b is present. When the two mounting flanges 41b, 43b abut each other, they can be bolted together with bolts, not shown, in the manner of the bolts 47, the holes 48 penetrating the mounting flanges 41b, 43b.

Much more comfortable is the connection concept for the arm connection device 55c, which is basically identical to the load carrier connecting device 56b. At the free end 96 of the holder part 12c, a plug-in head 59 is arranged as the first connection body 57, to which a receptacle body 61 can be attached as a second connection body 58, which is respectively arranged on the dome part 13c and on the load carrier adapter part 15c.

Thus, therefore, the arm connection device 55c comprises a quick-release coupling, so that the coupling part 13b can be quickly exchanged for the load carrier adapter part 15b and vice versa.

The concept of the load carrier connection device 55b is duplicated in the system 10c, namely also on the front of the load carrier adapter part 15c. Thus, it would be possible in principle to attach the load carrier 16b directly to the arm connecting device 56c. As a result, a high constructional flexibility is possible, so that, for example, the load carrier 16b can be fastened by means of the load carrier adapter part 15c with a slightly greater distance to a road surface on the vehicle 18 or alternatively with a smaller distance to the road surface by the load carrier 16b being fastened directly to the holder part 12c ,

In the load carrier system 10d, which is shown partially only schematically, a quick coupling between the load carrier 16d and the holder part 12d in the form of a dovetail connection is shown as a load carrier connecting device 56d. The holder part 12d can be inserted, for example, in the basic holder lld. For locking purposes, a base holder fixing device 26d is used which, for example, comprises a latch 97, which is designed as a sleeve on the base holder, in particular a latch which can be actuated manually and / or by an electric motor. In its locking position engages the latch 97 in a receptacle 98 on a plug projection of the holder part 12d.

At a free end 96 of an arm portion 99 of the holder part 12 d, a mounting flange 41 d is arranged. The mounting flange 41 d is plate-like and has one of its free, remote from the free end 96 side, a plug receptacle 100. The plug-in receptacle 100 is formed between the mounting flange 41 d and a plate 101. The plate 101 is triangular. The plug-in receptacle 100 is also triangular. The plug-in receptacle 100 comprises mutually inclined grooves 102, which are formed between the mounting flange 41 d and the plate 101.

At a free end of a front of the cross member 49 of the load carrier 16d projecting support arm 103 a Montageflansc 43d or a mounting plate is arranged, on the underside of plug-in projections 104 are arranged. The plug-in projections 104 have angled, facing inner side surfaces 105 which lie at the bottoms of the grooves 102 a. So if the plug-in projections 104 are inserted into the grooves 102 ei ne rotation is given to a vehicle longitudinal axis. Another anti-rotation, namely about a vehicle transverse axis is realized by the expediently flat concerns the prede ren, free side of the mounting flange 43 d on the mounting flange 41 d and the support in the grooves 102, in particular the plate 101. It can be seen that this connector is very easy to produce and realizes a certain degree of self-centering. By that the two

Groove bottoms of the oblique grooves 102 point with their tip up, the load carrier connection device 56 d auto matically centered with respect to the vehicle longitudinal direction when the plug-in projections 104 are inserted into the grooves 102. An additional safeguard is when, for example, latch 106, which are arranged on a connecting body, for example the connecting body 58, can be inserted into latch receptacles 107 on the other connecting body 57, when the two locking bodies 57, 58 assume their connecting position, that is to say Plug-in projections 104 are inserted into the socket 100.

It is understood that a latching would be possible if, for example, the latch 106 configured as a latching body or replaced by latching body, i. are spring loaded in the direction of the locking position or detent position.

In the above embodiments, the respective holder part is removable from the base holder when not in use. The system 10e, on the other hand, provides that these components remain permanently attached to one another but are movable relative to one another. For example, the basic holder 11 includes a plate 110, which can be fastened to a vehicle cross member 17 of a vehicle 18. The plate 110 forms part of a bearing component 111 on which a bearing body 113 of the holder part 12e is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis 116 as the second bearing component 112. For example, stands from the plate 110 from a not visible in the drawing bearing pin, which penetrates into the bearing body 113 and on which the bearing body 113 is rotatable, expediently also displaceably mounted. The position components 111, 112 thus form a pivot slide bearing 117.

By means of the pivot slide bearing 117 is the holder part 12e with the dome part 13e or the load carrier adapter part, not shown between a projecting rearwardly of the rear bumper 118, provided for pulling a trailer or holding a load carrier use position G. and one behind the rear bumper 121 at least partially backward (indicated by dashed lines) non-use position N adjustable.

With reference to indicated by an arrow 115

Displaceability, it is possible that an actuator body 32 of the base holder fixing device 26e, which preferably acts on non-visible, arranged in the interior of the holder part 12e positive locking body, for example, balls, the bearing body 113 moves in the direction of the plate 110, so that as a rotational securing form-fitting contours 27d and 28d on the plate 110 and the side facing it of the bearing body 113 provided balls and spherical caps engage with each other and so the bearing body 113 with respect to the plate 110, ie with respect to the base holder, rotatably set.

The actuator body 32 is conveniently provided by means of a pulling and / or pushing element 119, e.g. a Bowden cable 123, actuated.

The actuator body 32 is preferably spring loaded in its locking position.

From the bearing body 113 is an arm 114 from. Arranged at a free end 96 of the arm 114 is an arm connection device 55e, which comprises a mounting flange 41e, which forms a first connection body 57.

A mounting plate 43e can be fastened to this first connecting body 57 as a second connecting body 58 arranged on the coupling part 13e, preferably also being screwable. The arm connection device 55e is therefore constructed in a similar way to the arm connection device 55a or 55b. Already by this concept, it is possible, instead of the dome part 13e an unrepresented load carrier adapter part to the basic system consisting of base holder or holder part 12e to attach. Of course, instead of the simple flange system, more comfortable connection techniques are also advantageously possible, for example the quick coupling in the manner of the load carrier connection device 56b or the arm connection device 55d, a bayonet lock or the like.

Of course, therefore, a quick coupling in the manner of the connecting means 55c, 56c or a schematically illustrated bayonet connection as in the system 10b ^{1 could} also be used in the load carrier system 10a or 10e, for example as a replacement for the arm connection means 55a, 55e and / or Adaptation or attachment of a load carrier.

It can be seen from the above statements that few basic systems consisting of base holder and holder part are individually adaptable to the respective conditions on site, for example, the structural conditions of the vehicle, by the adaptation of a dome part or a load carrier adapter part.

Thus, the system 10a is provided for a horizontal mounting of a coupling arm or a load carrier, while in the system 10b, a vertical assembly, in which in particular the receiving sleeve 19b can be mounted hidden behind a rear bumper realized.

Accordingly, therefore, the plug-in projection 22b faces upwards, with the plug-in projection 22b extending essentially in a straight line. The plug-in projection 22b projects angularly from a neck region 25b of the holder part 12b. The neck region 25b in turn has a curved course toward its free end 96, and towards the free end 96 when installed.

Also, arm portions 120, 121 of the dome portion 13b and the load carrier adapter portion 15b have a curved course, so that the coupling element 14 and the plug head 59 protrude relatively far back in front of the rear of the vehicle 18. In a space between the male projection 22b on the one hand and the coupling element 14 or the plug head 59 on the other hand, so to speak, fits the rear bumper.

In the case of the system 10e, it becomes clear that the relatively complicated pivoting and / or sliding bearing and its fixation can be used several times for driving (by means of the basic holder fixing device 26e), namely for pulling a trailer (by means of the coupling part 13e), but also for a simple, fast and / or safe adaptation of a load carrier. For example, the load carrier adapter part 15b could be attached to the holder part 12e.

Simple connection techniques with, for example, mounting flanges (arm connection device 55a, 55e) are possible, but also quick couplings, which is clear from the example of the arm connection device 55c or the load carrier connection device 55b.

For pivoting and / or axial adjustment of the holder part 12e about or along the pivot axis 116, a drive 122 can expediently be provided, for example an electric motor. For actuating the actuating body 92, that is to say the fixing device 26e, advantageously a motor drive, for example a drive 123, can be provided. The drive 123 may act on the pull / push element 119, for example. The locking element 78 may also be actuated by a motor, not shown, for example, an electric linear drive.

Claims

claims

1. hitch for a motor vehicle (18), in particular a passenger motor vehicle (18), with a vehicle fixed mountable or mounted base holder (lla-ll), and a coupling arm, at its free end a coupling element (14) for coupling a trailer is arranged and in a position of use (G) to the rear in front of the motor vehicle (18) protrudes, wherein the coupling arm to the base holder (lla-lle) releasably fastened or movable between the use position (G) and one to the motor vehicle (18) hinbewegten Non-use position (N) is mounted, characterized in that the coupling arm for connection to the base holder (lla-lle) a on the base holder (lla-lle) by means of a base holder fixing means (26a-26e) fixable holder part (12a-12e) and a dome part (13a-13c; 13e) on which the coupling element (14) is arranged, wherein the holder part (12a-12e) and the dome part (13a-13c; 13e) by means of one as Arm-Verbindungseinrichtun g (55a-55c; 55e) releasably connectable to one another, the one connecting body (57) and a second, with the first connecting body (57) releasably

having connectable connecting body (58).

2. Trailer coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a load carrier adapter part (15b-15d) which, for connection to the holder part (12a-12e), has a connection body of the holder part (12a-12e) has matching connecting body and which is connected or connectable to a load carrier (16a, 16b, 16d) having a support portion for carrying a load, or that such a load carrier (16a, 16b, 16d ) Is fastened to the connecting body of the holder part (12a-12e).

3. Trailer coupling according to claim 2, characterized in that the load carrier adapter part (15b-15d) and the load carrier (16a, 16b, 16d) for releasable connection with each other have a load carrier connecting means (56a-56d).

4. Trailer coupling according to claim 3, characterized in that the load carrier connection means (56a-56d) and arm connection means (55a-55c; 55e) are of similar construction and / or each have mutually compatible components.

5. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting device, in particular the load carrier connecting device (56a-56d) and / or the arm connecting device (55a-55c; 55e), is releasable and / or closable without tools and / or has a lock.

6. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first connecting body and / or the second connecting body (58) has a mounting flange.

7. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first connecting body (57) and the second connecting body (58) positive locking contours, in particular at least one positive locking projection and min. at least one positive connection receptacle, for positive retention of the connecting body (57, 58) to each other.

8. Trailer coupling according to claim 7, characterized in that the form-fitting contours include dovetail contours, which are positively connected to each other, wherein advantageously the at least one positive locking projection comprises a dovetail projection and the at least one positive terminal receiving a dovetail receptacle.

Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first connecting body (57) and the second connecting body (58) comprise bayonet connecting means.

10. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting means comprises a locking element (78) for locking the connection between the first connecting body (57) and the second connecting body (58), wherein the locking element (78) between a locking position and one

Unlocked position on the first connecting body (57) or the second connecting body (58) is mounted captively movable and engages in the locking position in a locking receptacle on the other connecting body (57, 58).

11. Trailer coupling according to claim 10, characterized in that the locking element (78) is spring-loaded in the locking position and / or that it has a drive motor for actuating the locking element (78).

12. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting device a Clamping element or a clamping body, with which the first connecting body (57) with the second connecting body (58) can be clamped.

13. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base holder fixing means (26a-26e) has at least one pair of form-fitting surfaces, of which at least one positive-locking surface between a release position in which the interlocking surfaces are removed from each other, and a fixing position of Fixing device is adjustable, in which the form-fitting surfaces lie positively against each other.

14. Trailer coupling according to claim 13, wherein the at least one movable form-locking surface is provided on a positive-locking body movably mounted in or on the holder part and / or in that it has a drive motor for actuating the at least one movable form-fitting surface having.

15. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base holder fixing device (26a-26e) each on the holder part (12a-12e) and on the base holder (lla-lle) fixed Drehsicherungsform- schlußkonturen (27, 28), which for one

non-rotatable stop of the holder part (12a-12e) on the base holder (lla-lle) at least in the position of use (G) engage positively in one another.

16. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base holder fixing device (26a-26e) has a movably mounted actuating body (32) or displacement body, in particular a bolt, for actuating or displacing at least one molding Has closing body in a form-fitting receptacle, on each of which a positive locking surface is provided.

17. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base holder fixing device (26a-26e) at least one in or on the holder part (12a-12e) movably mounted positive-locking body for engaging in a form-fitting receptacle on the base holder (lla-lle) and / or in or on the holder part (12a-12e) movably mounted actuating body (32) or

Displacer, in particular a bolt, for actuating or displacing at least one, advantageously in or on the holder part (12a-12e) movably mounted, positive-fit body in a form-fitting receptacle.

18. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base holder (lla-lle) has a plug-in receptacle (20) into which a plug projection (22a, 22b) of the holder part (12a-12e) can be inserted, or that the holder part (12a-12e) and the base holder (11a-lle) bearing components (111, 112) of a pivot bearing and / or a sliding bearing (117), so that the holder part (12a-12e) on the base holder (llAll) pivoting and / or slide-mounted.

19. Trailer coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a motor drive (122) for adjusting the holder part (12a-12e) between the use position and the hinbewegten to the motor vehicle non-use position.