WO2021047915A1

WO2021047915A1 - Eccentric module-coupling point

Info

Publication number: WO2021047915A1
Application number: PCT/EP2020/073953
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Hasenauer; Reiner Oster; Gerhard Körbel
Original assignee: Edag Engineering Gmbh
Priority date: 2019-09-10
Filing date: 2020-08-27
Publication date: 2021-03-18
Also published as: DE102019213711A1; DE102019213711B4

Abstract

The present invention relates to a module coupling for modules, in particular for vehicle modules, having an eccentric clamping element, and to a vehicle, in particular autonomous vehicle, comprising the module coupling and a transport-changing system. The module coupling for modules, in particular for vehicle modules, is designed to releasably couple a first module, in particular an autonomous driving device, and a second module. The module coupling comprises at least one eccentric clamping element and a pin. The at least one eccentric clamping element is arranged on the first module or on the second module. The at least one pin is arranged in an opposed manner to the eccentric clamping element on the second module or on the first module. The eccentric clamping element is designed to clamp the pin in a clamping direction.

Description

DESCRIPTION

ECCENTRIC MODULAR COUPLING POINT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a clutch module for modules, in particular for vehicle modules, with an eccentric clamping element, and a vehicle, particularly an autonomous vehicle comprising the clutch module and a Verkehrsmitteiwechsel _S ystem.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Vehicles are known to which a trailer can be coupled. The coupling takes place via a ball head arranged on the vehicle, which is received by an essentially half-shell-shaped coupling element and gimbals the latter. It is also known to connect a railcar to a rail car via a screw coupling or a central buffer coupling. Several wagons can also be connected to one another with these couplings.

Furthermore, means of transport changing systems are known which are designed in particular for an autonomous mobile performance of work activities, in particular traffic-independent, green maintenance, clearing, maintenance and / or monitoring work, as well as for the transport of people. Conventional modes of transport changing are based on the basic idea of using different modules such as passenger or freight cabins with different vehicles such as autonomous ones To move drive devices. For example, DE 102018 002 229 A1 describes a means of changing system in which a passenger cabin is part of a modular vehicle and can be mechanically coupled to a flight module or a road travel module or another transport module as required. For this purpose, a drive device (first module) has a catch hook and an elongated rod element as connecting devices. A passenger cell (second module) has a counterpart that can be brought into engagement with the catch hook and a receiving element for fixing the rod element as connecting elements of the passenger cell. The catch hook comprises a cylindrical area which can be received in a cylindrical recess of the counterpart. The cylindrical recess can be pivoted about a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical recess by pivoting a closing element. The elongated rod element has a ball at one end. The ball can be grasped from behind by a receiving element on the passenger compartment side as a connecting element of the connecting device. Thus, by means of the receiving element, the rod element can be fixed in a close range of the ball relative to the receiving element by engaging behind the ball. In particular, the ball can be positioned relative to the receiving element by means of a conical guide, the receiving element in the present case lying around the circumference of the rod element in order to fix the rod element.

Such conventional means of change systems are designed exclusively for the specific function of transporting passenger cabins. Thus, for example, for traffic rush hours, in which a high demand for transport services for passenger cabins is requested, a very high number of drive devices must be kept available, which, however, are for a large part of the remaining time, especially during off-peak times, is only partly needed.

DE 605667 A relates to clutches for trailer vehicles and discloses a disc which is mounted eccentrically rotatably about a bolt in a clutch housing. The disc is provided with a cutout into which a coupling member (bolt which can be attached to a trailer) engages. The disc forms a claw. When the bolt advances against the claw, a spring-loaded latch exerts a pressure on the claw that supports the movement of the claw into the locking pitch.

DE 4312 209 A1 discloses a coupling ball carrier and a guide sleeve for vehicle trailer couplings. A free end of the coupling ball carrier can be inserted into the guide sleeve arranged on a vehicle via an insertion opening and can be coupled to a cylindrical locking bolt seated transversely in the insertion opening. A curve piece is rotatably mounted in the free end of the coupling ball carrier behind an insertion slot, which is open towards its end face, for receiving the locking bolt. The curve piece (4) has a partially cylindrical, open circumferential recess for the locking bolt. Curve stops of the curve piece (4) are acted upon by guide stops of a thrust element, which is longitudinally guided in the free end and supported by a spring, in such a way that the thrust element is held in an initial basic position when the spring is tensioned. As a result of a rotary movement of this cam piece caused when the free end is inserted into the guide sleeve by the impact of the cam piece on the locking bolt, the thrust element is released from the initial basic position and shifted longitudinally under the pressure of the spring tangentially in the direction of the curve piece. As a result of the pressure of the spring, the thrust element causes the cam piece to rotate further up to a locking position in which a cam stop section of the surrounding recess encompasses the locking bolt. When the pushing element is moved longitudinally again (in the opposite sense against the action of the spring, the pushing element reverses the direction of rotation of the cam piece, the pushing element and the cam piece being returned to their initial basic position.

DE 202014 103 040 U1 relates to body connectors in particular for furniture construction. A first connector part comprises a base body with a securing recess in which a securing element is rotatably mounted. The securing element is an eccentric element with a securing groove which is designed to come into engagement with an undercut head section of a second connector part in a holding position of the securing element and preferably to brace the first connector part with the second connector part.

DE 4312 209 A1 discloses an eccentric fitting for connecting furniture parts. A cylindrical eccentric housing rotatably mounted in a round recess has an eccentric / sickle-shaped tightening surface / tightening curve which cooperates with a head of an anchoring bolt. The housing carries a retaining lug on the lateral surface that penetrates the furniture part in the course of a rotary movement and has in a part free of tightening surfaces Essentially superimposed mounting openings for the head of the anchoring bolt.

Simple and, in particular, fully automatic coupling of different modules depending on the current requirement is therefore desirable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of providing an improved module coupling for modules, in particular for vehicle modules. According to the invention, this object is achieved by a modular coupling with the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a module coupling for modules, in particular for vehicle modules, is designed to releasably couple a first module, in particular an autonomous drive device, and a second module. The module coupling comprises at least one eccentric clamping element and a mandrel. The at least one eccentric clamping element is arranged on the first module or the second module. The at least one mandrel is arranged opposite to the eccentric clamping element on the second module or the first module. The eccentric clamping element is designed to clamp the mandrel in a clamping direction. The eccentric clamping element comprises an eccentric element with an eccentric profile, which is mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation, an insertion opening in the eccentric element for the mandrel and a rotating mechanism. The mandrel includes a coupling element. The mandrel is designed to be inserted with the coupling element through the insertion opening into the eccentric element. The rotating mechanism is designed to rotate the eccentric element about the axis of rotation. The eccentric profile is designed to move the mandrel introduced into the eccentric element via the coupling element in the tensioning direction when the eccentric element is rotated by the rotating mechanism.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, a vehicle, in particular an autonomous vehicle, comprises a drive device as a first module, at least one second module and at least one module coupling according to the first aspect of the present invention.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a means of changing system comprises a plurality of autonomous drive devices as first modules and a plurality of different second modules. The various second modules can be coupled as desired with the first modules and optionally additionally with one another by means of module couplings according to the first aspect of the present invention.

The first and second modules are particular

Vehicle modules. The first module is in particular an autonomous drive device, which is preferably designed as an automatically driving system that has sensor equipment or sensors suitable for autonomous driving and, in particular, artificial intelligence designed for autonomous ferry operation. Furthermore, the autonomous drive device can preferably be via transceivers, in particular via "Car to Car" and "Car to X"

Communication facilities as well as a cloud connection suitable for the coordination of autonomous systems. The autonomous drive device can be a modular autonomous Be designed drive unit of the means of change system, which can be coupled to at least one second module such as a passenger and / or freight cabin and / or a work module.

The first module can also be a passenger and / or freight cabin and / or a work module and can be coupled to a further passenger and / or freight cabin and / or a further work module as a second module by means of the module coupling.

The modules can also be ship modules or aircraft modules. It is also possible that the modules are suitable for vehicles and / or for ships and / or aircraft. A (land-based) autonomous drive device and alternatively a flight device can serve as the first module, so that, for example, a transport cabin can be coupled as a second module via the module coupling (depending on requirements) either to the autonomous drive device or to the flight device.

The at least one eccentric clamping element can be arranged on the first module and the at least one mandrel can be arranged correspondingly opposite to the eccentric clamping element on the second module. Conversely, the at least one eccentric clamping element can also be arranged on the second module and the at least one mandrel can be arranged correspondingly opposite to the eccentric clamping element on the first module. If the module coupling comprises more than one eccentric clamping element and more than one corresponding mandrel, the first module can comprise all eccentric clamping elements or, alternatively, all mandrels or at least one eccentric clamping element and at least one mandrel, the second module correspondingly oppositely comprise all mandrels or alternatively all eccentric clamping elements or at least one mandrel and at least one eccentric clamping element.

The at least one eccentric clamping element is fixedly attached to the first module or the second module. The connection between the eccentric clamping element and the first module or the second module can be made by form fit and / or force fit and / or material fit.

The at least one mandrel is fixedly attached to the first module and the second module, respectively. The connection between the mandrel and the first module or the second module can be made by form fit and / or force fit and / or material bond.

The at least one eccentric clamping element and the at least one mandrel are arranged on the first module and the second module in such a way that they can cooperate in order to releasably couple the first module and the second module. For this purpose, the at least one eccentric clamping element can be arranged on a front side or a rear side of the first module or of the second module. The at least one mandrel can be arranged correspondingly opposite on a rear side or a front side of the second module or the first module. Alternatively, the at least one eccentric clamping element and correspondingly opposite the at least one mandrel can be arranged on a left / right side of the first module and the second module.

The at least one eccentric clamping element clamps the at least one mandrel by means of an eccentric movement in the clamping direction. The mandrel is shifted in this way by the eccentric movement, more precisely used, and clamped, that the first module (autonomous drive device) and the second module (z. B. work module, passenger / cargo cabin, etc.) are detachably coupled to one another. For this purpose, the eccentric clamping element can carry out the eccentric movement in a clamping direction of rotation, the mandrel being pulled towards the eccentric clamping element and clamped therein. In the clamped state, the mandrel cannot be moved against the tensioning direction and thus the coupling between the first module and the second module cannot be canceled.

In addition, the eccentric clamping element can perform the eccentric movement in a release direction of rotation, the mandrel being released and being released or pulled out opposite to the clamping direction. The release direction of rotation can be oriented opposite to the clamping direction of rotation.

The tensioning direction can run in an axial direction of the at least one mandrel. The at least one mandrel is thus displaced and clamped along its axis.

The first module and the second module can be coupled to one another in a rigid (rigid, fixed) or articulated releasable manner via the at least one eccentric clamping element and the at least one mandrel. The rigid coupling is non-translational and non-rotatable, so that no relative movement, neither translation nor rotation, is possible between the first module and the second module. The articulated coupling is translation-proof and rotatable, so that a rotation of the first module and the second module around one, two or three rotation axes, but no translation between them, is possible. The autonomous drive device, together with the at least one second module, forms an autonomous vehicle according to the second aspect of the present invention. Several drive devices can also be coupled by means of the module coupling according to the first aspect of the present invention in order to increase the tensile force.

The drive device of the vehicle can be coupled to a second module via a first module coupling. In addition, the second module, which is coupled to the drive device, can be coupled to a further second module via a second module coupling. Several further second modules of the vehicle can each be coupled to one another via further module couplings.

The drive devices of the traffic change system can be coupled fully automatically to corresponding second modules by means of corresponding module couplings via a central controller, depending on the current requirement. Several second modules can also be coupled to one another fully automatically via appropriate module couplings, depending on the current requirement.

The module coupling according to the invention makes it possible to couple a first module or an autonomous drive device quickly and safely with any second modules such as passenger cabins, freight cabins, care cabins and other trailer modules, for example. The coupling between the modules takes place reliably and safely without human intervention.

The eccentric element can be received in a housing and optionally supported in this. The housing can be a be a separate element attached to the first module or the second module. Furthermore, the housing can be formed by a recess such as, for example, a bore in a body or a frame of the first module or of the second module, which can be closed with a cover.

The insertion opening is designed and arranged in such a way that at least the coupling element of the mandrel can pass through the insertion opening and be inserted into the eccentric element. A cross-sectional area of the coupling element in an insertion direction in which the mandrel with the coupling element can be inserted into the eccentric element and which can coincide with the tensioning direction is accordingly smaller than the area of the insertion opening. The insertion opening can be provided in the eccentric element, for example on an outer jacket surface of the eccentric element, and / or optionally in the housing.

The coupling element is designed in such a way that it can interact with the eccentric profile. In this case, after the coupling element has passed the insertion opening and is located in the interior of the coupling element, it can be hooked behind by the eccentric profile.

The rotating mechanism is permanently connected to the eccentric element and can rotate it together with its eccentric profile around the axis of rotation. The axis of rotation can run perpendicular to the clamping direction.

The eccentric element has the eccentric profile which is designed such that it executes the eccentric movement and hooks the mandrel on the coupling element when the Eccentric element is rotated accordingly about the axis of rotation by the rotating mechanism. For this purpose, the eccentric profile can have an eccentric cam which interacts with the coupling element. With a corresponding rotation of the eccentric element, the eccentric cam track can hook the coupling element behind and move the coupling element further in the tensioning direction as the rotation of the eccentric element progresses. As a result, the mandrel is shifted in the clamping direction into the eccentric element of the eccentric clamping element and clamped in the eccentric element. The first module and the second module are thus releasably coupled to one another.

The cam track is shaped eccentrically in such a way that an intersection of the cam track with an intersection line parallel to the clamping direction moves against the clamping direction when the eccentric element is rotated in the clamping direction of rotation on the intersection line in the clamping direction and when the eccentric element is rotated in the release direction of rotation on the intersection line opposite to the clamping direction.

The rotating mechanism can be designed to rotate the eccentric element in the clamping direction and, in the process, to allow the eccentric profile to execute the eccentric movement in the clamping direction of rotation, whereby the mandrel is clamped. In addition, the rotating mechanism can be designed to rotate the eccentric element in the release direction of rotation and thereby allow the eccentric profile to perform the eccentric movement in the release direction of rotation, thereby releasing the mandrel. The rotating mechanism can rotate the eccentric element together with the eccentric profile in the clamping direction of rotation so that the mandrel introduced via the insertion opening hooks behind the coupling element of the eccentric profile of the eccentric element and shifts it in the clamping direction, as well is clamped. The clamped mandrel cannot be pulled out of the eccentric element. Furthermore, the rotating mechanism can rotate the eccentric element in the release direction of rotation, so that the mandrel with the coupling element is released and can be pulled out of the eccentric element counter to the tensioning direction.

The coupling element can have a greater extent (head) than a neck of the mandrel at least in a direction different from the axial direction of the mandrel, in particular perpendicular. The coupling element can in particular be designed as a spherical head with a neck. The eccentric profile or the cam track can hook the coupling element behind the larger extension (head) in the area of the neck and move it further in the clamping direction into the eccentric element as the rotation of the eccentric element progresses in the clamping direction. The eccentric element can have an eccentric profile with two eccentric cam tracks which lie opposite one another and hook the coupling element, in particular the ball head, behind on opposite sides of the neck.

The eccentric profile and optionally the insertion opening can have a keyhole profile. The keyhole profile comprises an area which is formed from a circular area or oval area and a substantially rectangular area in the same plane. The rectangular area has a smaller width than the diameter of the circular area or oval area. The rectangular area intersects the circular area or oval area and at least partially overlaps them. Through the circular area or the oval area, the introduction of a mandrel (with coupling element), for example by thermal and / or mechanical Deformation or other damage is no longer precisely aligned with the eccentric clamping element, simplified and thus coupling can be ensured despite the deviation. As soon as the eccentric element is rotated in the clamping direction of rotation, the mandrel or the coupling element slides out of the circular area or the oval area into the rectangular area and is hooked behind by the eccentric profile.

With the eccentric clamping element comprising the eccentric element with eccentric profile, the insertion opening and the rotating mechanism and with the mandrel comprising the coupling element, the coupling of the first module to the second module can be made particularly safe and robust by the eccentric movement.

According to a development of the present invention, the rotary mechanism comprises a shaft or a rotary element and a drive. The eccentric element is rotatably mounted on the shaft. The rotary element is designed to transmit a rotation to the eccentric element on an outer circumference of the eccentric element in a frictionally and / or positively locking manner. The drive is designed to rotate the eccentric element via the shaft or via the rotary element, the drive being releasably or permanently connected to the shaft or the rotary element.

The eccentric element can be rotatably mounted on the shaft, for example via an axial groove along an inner circumferential surface of a central bore along the axis of rotation through the eccentric element and a tooth pushed into the groove on an outer circumferential surface of the shaft. Alternatively, the eccentric element and the shaft can be connected non-rotatably via a shaft-hub toothing. Through the non-rotatable mounting or connection, the shaft can transmit a rotation to the eccentric element.

Alternatively, a rotation can be transmitted to the eccentric element on its outer circumference, in particular if the eccentric element has a circular cross section perpendicular to the axis of rotation, on its outer circumferential surface by means of the rotary element.

In order to rotate the eccentric element in the clamping direction of rotation and in the release direction and to allow the eccentric profile to perform the eccentric movement in the clamping direction of rotation or in the release direction, the shaft or the rotary element is driven by a drive. The drive can be carried out manually or automatically.

The shaft can be connected directly to a motor shaft of the drive.

The rotary element can be designed as a wheel that rolls in a frictionally engaged manner with the outer surface of the eccentric element. In addition, the rotary element can be connected directly to the motor shaft of the drive.

The rotating mechanism with drive and shaft or rotating element in particular enables automatic coupling and releasing in a safe and robust manner.

According to a further development of the present invention, the rotary mechanism further comprises a gear, in particular a self-locking gear. The transmission is arranged between the drive and the shaft or the rotating element. WO 2021/047915 _ lg _ PCT / EP2020 / 073953

The transmission can be a gear transmission, a spur gear transmission, a planetary transmission, a link transmission and the like. The transmission can be designed to be switchable (e.g. forward direction of rotation and reverse direction of rotation). The transmission can have a predetermined translation, so that a torque and a speed of the drive are translated to a suitable torque and a suitable speed for the shaft or the rotating element and thus for the eccentric element. The transmission can be a CVT transmission, a non-circular transmission or a free-form transmission (e.g. with non-circular toothing).

In particular, the transmission can be designed to be self-locking, so that the drive can move the eccentric element, but not an external force on the eccentric element. For example, the transmission can be designed with a large gear ratio from the drive to the shaft or to the rotary element and thus to the eccentric element (output).

The eccentric element of the eccentric clamping element can be optimally controlled by the gear unit and the coupling of the first module and the second module can thus be carried out in a particularly robust manner. In addition, the self-locking gear can effectively prevent unwanted releasing of the mandrel and thus unwanted decoupling of the first module and the second module.

According to a further development, the transmission comprises a worm and a corresponding worm wheel, which mesh with one another.

Self-locking of the gear can be achieved through the gearbox with worm and corresponding worm wheel become. The worm can be connected to the drive in a rotating test. The worm wheel can be rotatably connected to the shaft or the rotating element. For example, the worm that meshes with the worm wheel that is connected to the shaft or with the rotary element can be attached to the motor shaft of the drive.

By means of the worm and the worm wheel, a large gear ratio from the drive to the shaft or the rotary element (output) as well as self-locking can be implemented. This avoids unintentional decoupling of the two modules connected via the module coupling.

According to a further development of the present invention, the rotary element is a worm. The eccentric element has a corresponding worm gear profile on its outer circumferential surface (at least in one section). The worm gear profile meshes with the worm.

The worm can be connected directly to the drive as a rotating element. The eccentric element can be designed directly as a worm wheel. The worm meshes with the worm wheel profile of the eccentric element and thus rotates the eccentric profile in the clamping direction of rotation or the release direction of rotation.

By designing the rotary element as a worm and the eccentric element as a corresponding worm wheel, a particularly space-saving, simple and robust rotary mechanism of the module coupling can be provided.

According to a further development, the drive is an electric drive and in particular an electric motor. The electric drive is connected to the shaft or the rotary element either directly or via a previously described gear and can thus rotate the eccentric element.

The electric drive and, in particular, the electric motor have a high constant torque and a high degree of efficiency with little installation space at the same time, so that a safe and robust coupling of the two modules can be guaranteed.

According to a further development of the present invention, the eccentric clamping element can be operated manually.

For example, the drive can be manually operated by a human user using a manually operated tool such as a crank or a wrench and thus the eccentric clamping element can be rotated in the clamping direction of rotation or in the release direction of rotation.

Alternatively, a manual actuating device can be provided parallel to the automatic drive, by means of which the eccentric clamping element can be rotated by hand in the clamping direction of rotation or in the release direction.

In addition, the transmission can be designed in such a way that it is possible to switch between the automatic drive and the manual actuation device or the automatic drive, in particular with a self-locking transmission, can be separated from the transmission, for example disengaged via a clutch. As the module coupling can be operated manually, coupling and decoupling of the two modules is possible even if the automatic drive is defective.

According to a further development, the eccentric element can be displaced along the axis of rotation and is preferably mounted displaceably on the shaft.

The eccentric element is not kinematically defined in the direction of the axis of rotation (e.g. via the 3-2-1 rule). For example, the eccentric element can be guided for this purpose by means of an axial guide. The axial guidance enables displacement in the direction of the axis of rotation and, optionally, also rotatability about the axis of rotation. For example, the eccentric element can be axially displaceable or floating on a guide shaft and optionally additionally non-rotatably or rotatably mounted. In particular, the eccentric element can be mounted in a floating manner, for example on the shaft that is connected to the drive. Furthermore, the eccentric element can be axially displaceable (floating), for example via rolling elements in a bore or in a hollow shaft or in the housing, and optionally additionally non-rotatably or rotatably mounted.

Thus, a mandrel that is not exactly aligned with the eccentric clamping element in the direction of the axis of rotation can be inserted into the eccentric element and clamped, since the (floating) eccentric element compensates for the positional deviation of the mandrel.

According to a development of the present invention, the eccentric clamping element further comprises a funnel. The funnel tapers from the outside towards the insertion opening. The funnel is arranged in front of the insertion opening in such a way that it tapers from outside the eccentric element to the insertion opening or the interior of the eccentric element, for example linearly or conically. The funnel can extend axially along the tensioning direction, in particular if the insertion direction coincides with the tensioning direction. The funnel results in a larger opening than the insertion opening into which the mandrel with the coupling element can be inserted. The funnel guides the mandrel or the coupling element to the insertion opening.

The funnel enables easier insertion of the mandrel into the eccentric element and centering of the first and second modules is achieved.

According to a further development, the module coupling comprises at least two eccentric clamping elements and at least two mandrels. The at least two eccentric clamping elements are arranged as far apart as possible on the first module or on the second module.

For example, three / four / many eccentric clamping elements can be arranged in three / four / many corners of a triangle / square / polygon that are as far apart as possible from one another on the first module or the second module. The three / four / many mandrels can correspondingly be arranged in opposite directions in three / four / many corners of a corresponding triangle / square / polygon that are as far apart as possible from one another on the second module or the first module.

In particular, if the first module and the second module are to be rigidly coupled to one another and no displacement or rotation with respect to one another is desired, they provide as much as possible Eccentric clamping elements arranged far from each other and the corresponding oppositely arranged mandrels as far away from each other as possible ensure that the coupling of the two modules is made as rigid as possible and moments occurring between the two coupled modules are absorbed particularly efficiently.

According to a further development of the present invention, the eccentric element is designed to be rotated into a locked position so that the mandrel cannot be inserted into the eccentric element through the insertion opening.

The eccentric element can be turned into the closed position manually or automatically via the drive or the manual actuating device. In the closed position, the insertion opening is at least partially, preferably completely closed by the eccentric element (for example by the outer surface of the eccentric element).

In the completely closed position, the interior of the eccentric element and in particular the eccentric profile are protected from dirt and damage.

According to a development of the present invention, the eccentric element comprises as a first connecting element at least one first electrical and / or electronic contact surface or an electrical and / or electronic and / or optical plug or an electrical and / or electronic and / or optical socket. The mandrel, in particular the coupling element, accordingly comprises at least one second electrical and / or electronic contact surface or an electrical and / or electronic and / or optical socket or an electrical one as the second connecting element and / or electronic and / or optical connectors. The first connecting element and the second connecting element are designed to connect the first module to the second module electrically and / or communicatively.

The first module is electrically and / or electronically and / or optically or communicatively connected to the second module via the first connecting element and the second connecting element. For this purpose, the first connecting element and the second connecting element are connected to one another when the two modules are coupled. The two connecting elements form an electrical and / or electronic and / or optical interface which is designed to connect the first module to the second module electrically and / or communicatively.

For this purpose, the first connecting element designed as an electrical / electronic contact surface can be brought into contact with the second connecting element designed as an electrical / electronic contact surface, so that electrical / electronic transmission between the two contact surfaces is possible. In particular, each electrical / electronic contact surface can be divided into several separate and isolated contacts, so that several electrical / electronic connections can be established.

Furthermore, a first connecting element designed as an electrical / electronic / optical socket / plug can accommodate the second connecting element designed as an electrical / electronic / optical plug / socket / plugged in to make electrical / electronic / optical contact between the two modules. In particular, each electrical / electronic / optical socket / plug can be subdivided into several separate and isolated receptacles / pins or contact areas, so that several electrical / electronic / optical connections can be established. In particular, a communicative connection between the two modules can be implemented via an optical fiber connector.

The first connecting element and the second connecting element are connected to one another in the clamping direction when the eccentric element is rotated in the clamping direction of rotation. When the eccentric element is rotated in the release direction of rotation or when the mandrel / coupling element is pulled out of the eccentric element, the first connecting element and the second connecting element are separated from one another.

The technically experienced user / specialist can expand the interface described above from the first connecting element and the second connecting element as desired. This can be used informally (data transmission), materially (H ₂₎ and electrically (for power supply from or to the modules) and adapted accordingly.

By means of the two connection elements integrated into the module coupling, the first module and the second module can be (automatically) coupled to one another and electrically and / or communicatively connected at the same time.

The invention and the technical environment are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. It is pointed out that the invention is not intended to be restricted by the exemplary embodiments shown. In particular, unless explicitly stated otherwise, it is also possible to extract partial aspects of the facts explained in the figures and to combine them with other components and findings from the present description and / or figures. In particular, it should be noted that the figures and in particular the size relationships shown are only schematic. The same reference symbols denote the same objects, so that explanations from other figures can be used in addition, if necessary.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of an autonomous

Vehicle with an autonomous drive device and a passenger and / or cargo cabin.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a module coupling with an eccentric clamping element.

3A-C show schematic side views of the module coupling with the eccentric clamping element.

FIGS. 4A-C show schematic front views of FIG

Module coupling with the eccentric clamping element.

Fig. 5 shows a schematic side view of a further embodiment of the module coupling with the eccentric clamping element.

6 shows a schematic view of the autonomous drive device.

Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of a mode of transport changing system. In Fig. 1, an autonomous vehicle 1 is shown schematically. The autonomous vehicle comprises an autonomous drive device 2 as a first module and a passenger and / or freight cabin 3 as a second module.

The autonomous drive device 2 is designed as an automatically driving system. For this purpose, the autonomous drive device 2 comprises suitable sensor equipment or sensor system 4 (e.g. cameras, lidar

Sensors, ultrasonic sensors, GPS sensors, etc.), four (optionally only two or three, but also more than four) wheels 5, of which at least two (optionally only one or more than two) wheels are designed to be steerable, a drive machine (not shown), preferably at least one electric motor that drives at least two (optionally also only one) of the wheels, and a central controller (not shown) that receives data from the sensor system 4 and controls the autonomous drive device 2 based thereon. The central control can optionally include an artificial intelligence designed for autonomous ferry operation. Furthermore, the autonomous drive device 2 can have transceivers, in particular “Car to Car” and “Car to X” communication devices, as well as a cloud connection suitable for the coordination of autonomous systems.

The passenger and / or freight cabin 3 comprises two (optionally more than two) wheels 6 and is designed to transport people and / or freight. Alternatively, the passenger and / or freight cabin 3 or generally the second module can also be stored without its own axle and wheels on the drive device 2 or generally the first module (cf. “mount on top” or “backpack”) and over the module coupling 10 can be coupled to the drive device 2 or the first module. The autonomous vehicle 1 also comprises a module coupling 10, which comprises four mandrels 11 (see FIGS. 2, 3A-C, 4A-C, 5 and 6) and four correspondingly opposing eccentric clamping elements 12. The four mandrels 11 are arranged on the autonomous drive device 2 and firmly connected to it. The four eccentric clamping elements 12 are correspondingly arranged opposite to the four spikes 11 on the passenger and / or freight cabin 3 and are firmly connected to it.

In Fig. 2, a module coupling 10 is shown schematically. A mandrel 11 and an eccentric clamping element 12 of the module coupling 10 are shown here by way of example.

The mandrel 11 comprises a coupling element 13 and a shaft 14, as well as a first electronic and / or optical connecting element K1 (see FIGS. 3A-C). The coupling element 13 is arranged at a free end of the shaft 14. The shaft 14 is firmly connected to the autonomous drive device 2 by a form fit and / or force fit and / or material connection (e.g. screwed, welded, glued, etc.) to a body or a frame of the drive device 2. The mandrel 11 cannot be shifted or rotated with respect to the autonomous drive device 2 (translation-proof and rotation-proof).

The eccentric clamping element 12 comprises an eccentric element 15, an insertion opening 16, a rotating mechanism 17 (see FIG. 5), a funnel 18 and a housing 19, as well as a second electronic / optical connecting element K2. The eccentric element 15 is received in the housing 19. The housing 19 is firmly connected to the passenger and / or cargo cabin 3 by a form fit and / or force fit and / or material bond (e.g. screwed, welded, glued, etc. to a body or a frame of the passenger and / or cargo cabin 3) .). The housing 19 cannot be shifted or rotated with respect to the passenger and / or freight cabin 3 (translation-proof and rotation-proof).

The eccentric element 15 has an eccentric profile E which can interact with the coupling element 13 when the mandrel 11 with the coupling element 13 is inserted into the eccentric element 15.

The insertion opening 16 is formed on an outer jacket surface of the eccentric element 15 and on the housing 19. The insertion opening 16 on the housing 19 points in the direction of an insertion direction in which the mandrel 11 with the coupling element 13 can be inserted into the eccentric element 15 through the insertion opening 16. The insertion opening 16 has a larger area than a largest cross-sectional area of the coupling element 13 perpendicular to the insertion direction.

The rotary mechanism 17 comprises a drive (not shown), in particular an electric motor, and a shaft 20a or a rotary element 20b (see FIG. 5), and optionally a gear, which is arranged between the drive and the shaft 20a or the rotary element 20b. The drive drives the shaft 20a or the rotary element 20b. The eccentric element 15 is mounted concentrically on the shaft 20a. The shaft 20a is connected to the eccentric element 15 in a rotationally fixed manner. The drive can thus rotate the eccentric element 15 about an axis of rotation which coincides with an axis of the shaft 20a. The funnel 18 is attached to the housing 19 in front of the insertion opening 16. The funnel 18 tapers conically from the outside towards the insertion opening 16. Via the funnel 18, the mandrel 11 with the coupling element 13 can be more easily inserted into the insertion opening 16 and the interior of the eccentric element 15 and, in addition, a translational alignment of the two modules with respect to one another is achieved.

The contact surface K2 is arranged in the interior of the eccentric element 15.

In Figs. 3A-C, the module coupling 10 is shown schematically in a side view. Figs. 3A-C schematically show a coupling, the mandrel 11 being clamped by the eccentric clamping element 12 by means of an eccentric movement.

In Fig. 3A a release position of the eccentric clamping element 12 is shown. In the release position, the mandrel 11 with the coupling element 13 can be inserted into the eccentric element 15 via the insertion opening 16 or pulled out of it. The eccentric profile E is arranged here on both end faces of the eccentric element 15. The eccentric profile E has an eccentric curved path, the radius of which decreases counter to a clamping direction of rotation (here clockwise) towards the axis of rotation. The coupling element 13 comprises a head at the free end of the mandrel 11 and a neck directly after the head. The head has a greater extent than the neck in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the mandrel 11 (corresponds to the insertion direction). As shown schematically in FIG. 3B, the eccentric element 15 is rotated in the clamping direction of rotation by the rotating mechanism 17 (here counterclockwise).

The eccentric profile E hooks behind the coupling element 13 introduced into the eccentric element 15 on both sides of the head of the coupling element 13. The coupling element 13 slides with the progressive rotation of the eccentric element 15 in the clamping direction of rotation with the head along the eccentric curved path of the eccentric profile E and is driven by the eccentric profile E drawn into the eccentric element 15 in a tensioning direction. The mandrel 11 moves in the tensioning direction, which here coincides with the insertion direction and the axial direction of the mandrel 11.

A coupling position of the eccentric clamping element 12 is shown in FIG. 3C. In the coupling position, the mandrel 11 with the coupling element 13 is completely displaced into the eccentric element 15. The head of the coupling element can be pressed against a stop (not shown). Alternatively, a stop element of the mandrel (not shown) can be pressed against a stop (for example on an end face of the housing 19). The mandrel 11 is thus rigidly (rotatably and rotationally fixed) coupled to the eccentric clamping element 12. In addition, in the coupling position, the first electronic / optical connection element Kl, which is located here on an end face of the head of the coupling element 13, is electronically / optically connected to the second electronic / optical connection element K2, so that an electrical and a communicative connection between the autonomous drive device 2 and the passenger and / or freight cabin 3 is produced, via which electrical energy and data / information (e.g. control commands) can be exchanged. To release the coupling, the eccentric element 15 is rotated by the rotating mechanism 17 in a release direction of rotation (here clockwise). As soon as the eccentric element 15 has reached the release position again (see FIG. 3A), the mandrel 11 with the coupling element 13 can be pulled out of the interior of the eccentric element 15 through the insertion opening 16 and thus the coupling, as well as the electrical and electronic connection between the autonomous Drive device 2 and the passenger and / or cargo cabin 3 are canceled.

In Figs. 4A-C, the module coupling 10 is shown schematically in a front view.

In Fig. 4A, the eccentric element 15 is shown schematically with a keyhole profile. The eccentric element 15 has on its outer jacket surface as an insertion opening 16 a recess in the form of a circular surface 21 which merges into an essentially rectangular surface 22. Through the circular area 21, the coupling element 13 can be in the

Eccentric element 15 are introduced. Will the eccentric element

15 rotated in the clamping direction of rotation, the neck of the coupling element 13 slides with progressive rotation from the circular surface 21 into the rectangular surface 22 and the head of the coupling element 13 is hooked behind by the eccentric profile E on both sides.

The eccentric element 15 is slidably mounted on the shaft 20a along the axis of rotation.

In Fig. 4B, the housing 19 is also with an insertion opening

16, which has an oval surface 23. The Eccentric element 15 is in housing 19 on shaft 20a in

Direction of the axis of rotation arranged displaceable. Thus, a mandrel 11, which has a deviation in its alignment, can still through the oval surface 23 as an insertion opening 16 on the housing 19 and through the circular surface 21 as an insertion opening 16 on the eccentric element 15, which is shifted accordingly on the shaft 20a in the direction of the axis of rotation , are introduced into the eccentric element 15. Accordingly, the funnel 18 is also designed with a conically tapering oval surface.

A locked position is shown schematically in FIG. 4C. In this case, the eccentric element 15 has been rotated by the rotating mechanism 17 from the release position (here clockwise) into the locked position. In the closed position, the outer jacket surface of the eccentric element 15 completely covers the insertion opening 16 in the housing 19. As a result, the interior of the eccentric element 15 and the second electronic connecting element K2 are protected from environmental influences, contamination and damage.

In Fig. 5, a further embodiment of the module coupling 10 with the eccentric clamping element 12 is shown schematically. The further embodiment corresponds to the embodiment of the module coupling 10 shown in the previous figures. Therefore, only the differences will be discussed below.

The rotating mechanism 17 of the eccentric clamping element 12 of the module coupling 10 here comprises a worm as the rotating element 20b. The lateral surface of the eccentric element 15 has here in one section a worm gear toothing 24 that meshes with the worm 20b. The eccentric element 15 is here either on the shaft 20a or alternatively via rolling elements in the housing 19 rotatably mounted and displaceable along the axis of rotation (not shown). The drive (electric motor) can be arranged on the housing 19 and drive the worm 20b directly. The screw 20b meshes with the

Worm gear toothing 24 and thus rotates the eccentric element 15. The worm 20b and the worm gear toothing achieve a high gear ratio from the drive to the eccentric element 15 (output) and also self-locking.

The autonomous drive device 2 of the autonomous vehicle 1 is shown schematically in FIG. 6. The four mandrels 11 are arranged in a square, the four mandrels 11 on the autonomous drive device 2 (and correspondingly opposite the four eccentric clamping elements 12 on the passenger and / or freight cabin 3) being arranged as far away from each other as possible (due to the design) . This increases the rigidity of the rigid coupling between the autonomous drive device 2 and the passenger and / or freight cabin 3.

In Fig. 7, a means of changing system 100 is shown schematically. A variety of autonomous propulsion devices

2 as the first module can be used with a variety of second modules

3 (personal and / or cargo cabins, work modules, care cabins and other trailer modules) can be automatically coupled as described above via module couplings 10 as required. A plurality of second modules can also be automatically coupled to one another via module couplings 10, as described above.

The second modules 3 are parked in a shunting hall 101 or at a similar location. The autonomous drive devices 2 when they are not in Are also parked in shunting hall 101. In the shunting hall 101, energy stores (batteries) of the modules 2, 3 can also be charged and maintenance work or repairs can be carried out on the modules 2, 3. A drive device 2 can autonomously drive to a predefined second module 3 parked in the shunting hall 101, position itself accordingly to the predefined second module 3 and approach it so closely that the mandrels 11 on the autonomous drive device 2 in the corresponding eccentric clamping elements 12 are introduced on the predetermined second module 3 so that the module coupling 10 can couple the autonomous drive device 2 to the predetermined second module 3 as described above. A plurality of second modules 3 can also be coupled one behind the other to the autonomous drive device 2 in an analogous manner.

While specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that there are a variety of alternatives and / or equivalent implementations. It is to be appreciated that the exemplary configurations or embodiments are only examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration in any way. Rather, the above summary and detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with sufficient instructions for implementing at least one preferred embodiment, it being understood that various changes in the function and arrangement of the elements described in an exemplary embodiment are not different from that in extend beyond the scope of the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Usually this is Application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specific embodiments discussed herein.

In the preceding detailed description, various features have been summarized in one or more examples in order to keep the disclosure concise. It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. It is intended to cover all alternatives, changes and equivalents that may be included within the scope of the invention. Many other examples will become apparent to one skilled in the art upon reading the above disclosure.

In order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention, specific nomenclature is used that has been used in the above disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art, in light of the specification contained therein, that the specific details are not required to practice the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative and illustrative

Illustrated for descriptive purposes. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise embodiments disclosed above; Obviously, many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, and thus to enable others skilled in the art to best practice the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as appropriate to their particular use apply. The terms "including" and "in which" are used as equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "in which" respectively. In addition, the terms "first / first / first",

"Second / second / second", "third, third, third" etc. are only used as a designation and are not intended to make numerical requirements on the objects or to specify a specific order of precedence. In connection with the present description and the claims, the connection “or” is to be understood as a recording (“and / or”) and not exclusive (“either ... or”).

List of reference symbols

1 autonomous vehicle

2 autonomous drive device

3 passenger and / or cargo cabin

4 sensors

5 wheels

6 wheels

10 module coupling

11 thorn

12 eccentric clamping element

13 coupling element

14 shaft

15 eccentric element

16 insertion opening

17 Rotation Mechanism

18 funnels

19 housing

20a wave

20b rotary element / screw

21 circular area

22 rectangular area

23 oval face

24 worm gear teeth

100 mode of transport switching system

101 marshalling hall

Kl first electronic / optical connecting element

K2 second electronic / optical connector

Claims

1. Module coupling (10) for vehicle modules, which is designed to releasably couple a first module, in particular an autonomous drive device (2), and a second module (3), the module coupling (10) comprising: at least one eccentric clamping element ( 12), which is arranged on the first module (2) or the second module (3), and at least one mandrel (11) which is opposite to the eccentric clamping element (12) on the second module (3) or the first module (2) is arranged, wherein the eccentric clamping element (12) is designed to clamp the mandrel (11) in a clamping direction and wherein the eccentric clamping element (12) comprises: an eccentric element (15) with an eccentric profile (E), which around a rotation axis is rotatably mounted; an insertion opening (16) in the eccentric element (15) for the mandrel (11); and a rotating mechanism (17), wherein the mandrel (11) comprises: a coupling element (13), the mandrel (11) being designed to be inserted with the coupling element (13) through the insertion opening (16) into the eccentric element (15) the rotating mechanism (17) is designed to rotate the eccentric element (15) about the axis of rotation, the eccentric profile (E) being formed, the mandrel (11) inserted into the eccentric element (15) via the To move the coupling element (13) in the clamping direction when the eccentric element (15) is rotated by the rotating mechanism (17).

2. Module coupling according to claim 1, wherein the rotating mechanism (17) comprises: a shaft (20a) on which the eccentric element (15) is rotatably mounted; or a rotary element (20b) which is designed to transmit a rotation to the eccentric element (15) on an outer circumference of the eccentric element (15) in a frictional and / or form-fitting manner; and a drive which is designed to rotate the eccentric element (15) via the shaft (20a) or via the rotary element (20b), the drive being releasably or permanently connected to the shaft (20a) or the rotary element (20b).

3. Module coupling according to claim 2, the rotary mechanism (17) further comprising a gear, in particular a self-locking gear, which is arranged between the drive and the shaft (20a) or the rotary element (20b).

4. Module coupling according to claim 3, wherein the transmission comprises a worm and a corresponding worm wheel which are in mesh with one another.

5. Module coupling according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the rotary element is a worm (20b) and wherein the eccentric element (15) on its outer circumferential surface has a corresponding worm gear profile (24) which is in engagement with the worm (20b).

6. Module coupling according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the drive is an electric drive, in particular an electric motor.

7. Module coupling according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the eccentric clamping element (12) can be operated manually.

8. Module coupling according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the eccentric element (15) is slidably mounted along the axis of rotation and preferably on the shaft (20a).

9. Module coupling according to one of the preceding claims, the eccentric clamping element (12) further comprising: a funnel (18) which tapers from the outside towards the insertion opening (16).

10. Module coupling according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least two eccentric clamping elements (12) and at least two mandrels (11), wherein the at least two eccentric clamping elements (12) as far apart as possible on the first module (2) or on the second Module (3) are arranged.

11. Module coupling according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the eccentric element (15) is designed to be rotated into a locked position so that the mandrel (11) cannot be inserted through the insertion opening (16) into the eccentric element (15).

12. Module coupling according to one of the preceding claims, the eccentric element (15) as a first connecting element (Kl) comprising at least one first electrical and / or electronic contact surface or an electrical and / or electronic and / or optical plug or an electrical and / or electronic and / or optical socket and the mandrel (11), in particular the coupling element (13) , as a second connecting element (K2) correspondingly comprising at least one second electrical and / or electronic contact surface or an electrical and / or electronic and / or optical socket or an electrical and / or electronic and / or optical plug, the first connecting element (Kl ) and the second connecting element (K2) are designed to connect the first module (2) to the second module (3) electrically and / or communicatively.

13. Vehicle, in particular an autonomous vehicle (1), comprising a drive device (2) as a first module, at least one second module (3) and at least one module coupling (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

14. Means of transport change system (100), comprising a plurality of autonomous drive devices (2) as first modules and a plurality of different second modules (3), the different second modules (3) arbitrarily with the first modules (2) and optionally also with each other can be coupled by means of module couplings (10) according to one of claims 1 to 12.