DE102020119506A1 - Monitoring facility and monitoring procedure - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a monitoring device and a monitoring method for a road combination (2) of a towing vehicle (3) and a trailer (5) to be coupled, which has a drawbar (8) with at least one actuating element (10, 11, 11 ', 12) there , which is safety-relevant for the coupled trailer operation. The monitoring device (1) has a preferably optical detection device (13) and a communication means (20), the detection device (13) being provided and designed to determine an actual position of at least one actuating element (10, 11, 11 ', 12 ) to be detected on the drawbar (4) and to be compared with a stored target position of the actuating element (10, 11, 11 ', 12) provided and stored for safe coupled trailer operation, and if a deviation of the actual position from the target position is determined Position to emit a signal through the communication means (20).

Description

The invention relates to a monitoring device and a monitoring method for a road combination with the features in the preamble of the independent claims.

Optical coupling aids for trailers are known from road vehicle practice which, in conjunction with a maneuvering drive, position the trailer coupling on the towing coupling of the towing vehicle so that it is suitable for coupling. You know from practice and the DE 10 2005 052 238 A1 also reversing cameras or other sensor systems on the towing vehicle that support the vehicle driver when reversing and maneuvering the towing vehicle into a position that is suitable for the coupling opposite the stationary trailer.

To improve safety when coupling, the arrangement of a latching indicator on the trailer coupling is known from practice. It shows the exact coupling position of the trailer coupling on the towing coupling of the towing vehicle. The safety of the coupled combination of towing vehicle and trailer in combination operation is not yet guaranteed.

The DE 41 24 974 A1 teaches a control mechanism that monitors the coupling on the towing vehicle for proper condition.

In the DE 10 2004 022 113 A1 While driving, a camera controls the alignment angle of the trailer to the towing vehicle and compares it with the current cornering angle of the towing vehicle. This is used to record unstable driving conditions of the trailer.

The DE 10 2017 128 292 A1 deals with a self-closing cover for a socket on the towing vehicle and detects via a camera on the towing vehicle whether a plug is plugged into the socket and whether a trailer is coupled or not.

From the DE 20 2016 123 725 A1 sensors on the towing vehicle are known which are used to detect crossed safety chains between the towing vehicle and trailer.

The DE 20 2011 103 901 U1 relates to a jack control with a contact switch.

In the DE 10 2018 212 963 A1 a camera on the towing vehicle and a neural network are used to detect whether a safety bolt is inserted into a trailer coupling and safety chains are attached.

It is the object of the present invention to further increase the safety for the coupled trailer operation.

The invention solves this problem with the features in the main claim.

The monitoring technology claimed, i.e. the monitoring device and the monitoring method, have various advantages. The monitoring technology is used for road combinations from towing vehicles and trailers, i.e. for road vehicles.

The monitoring technology can detect whether the coupled combination of towing vehicle and trailer is safe to drive. A safe driving condition on the trailer side can exist, for example, when the trailer coupling is properly engaged on the towing coupling, the parking brake is released and the drawbar support, in particular a support wheel, is retracted into the rest position.

With the monitoring device, the safe condition of the trailer can be determined when coupling or afterwards and before the start of the journey. If there is no certainty, a signal can be emitted. The driver or another person can perceive this and act accordingly. The signal can be an alarm signal. If necessary, it can also localize and signal the existing security problem.

The monitoring technology is assigned to the trailer. The monitoring device can be an autonomous device. She can monitor the security situation for herself and signal any problems. Further security elements, e.g. a camera on the towing vehicle or the like, are not required. They can be there for other reasons. The self-sufficient device can be attached to the trailer and removed again with little effort. It can have its own energy supply. The mounting position can be reproducible. The detection technology is particularly suitable for retrofitting or converting a trailer.

The monitoring technology can be activated by an operator, e.g. the driver, e.g. when coupling the trailer. Alternatively or additionally, a coupling can be detected by sensors, e.g. with a contact sensor or the like on the trailer coupling. The monitoring technology can be activated automatically. When driving with a trailer or when the trailer is stationary, the monitoring technology can be deactivated to save energy, e.g. by operator command and / or automatically, e.g. by a time lapse and a timeout command.

The road-going trailer to be coupled has a drawbar with at least one actuating element arranged there, which is safety-relevant for the coupled trailer operation. The actuating element can be present several times and be designed in different ways.

An actuating element can be designed as a clutch actuator. This can be, for example, a clutch lever and possibly an engagement indicator. Another actuating element can be designed as a brake actuator. This can be a handbrake lever, for example. Another actuating element can be designed as a breakaway lock. If the trailer is torn away from the towing vehicle while driving, it can trigger a safety reaction, e.g. actuate the trailer's braking device. Yet another actuating element can be designed as a support. This can be designed as a drawbar support. The drawbar support can be moved, in particular moved, between a support position and a retracted rest position for safe trailer operation. The drawbar support can e.g. be designed as an adjustable support wheel.

The monitoring device has a detection device and a communication means. These can be arranged on the trailer. The detection device is used to detect the safety status of the coupled vehicle combination and can signal a possible safety problem via the communication means.

The detection device can be designed in any suitable manner. It is preferably designed as an optical device. The detection device is provided and designed to detect an actual position of at least one actuating element on the drawbar and to compare it with a stored target position of said actuating element. The target position is intended for the safe coupled clamping operation and represents this. The target position can be recorded and saved in any way, e.g. through an optical teaching process. The teaching can be carried out with the detection device.

The detection device compares the detected actual position with the stored nominal position and, if the positions differ from one another, emits a corresponding signal via the communication means. The target / actual value comparison can be carried out as a visual image comparison of the target position image and the actual position image.

The signal emitted by the communication means can be designed differently. In the simplest case, it is a warning signal that alerts the operator, e.g. the driver of the towing vehicle and / or another person, to a safety problem detected by the position comparison. Such a warning signal can be designed optically, acoustically, haptically or in some other way or in a combination of several of these possibilities.

The detection device can be designed for the detection and comparison of the desired and actual positions of several actuating elements. These can in particular be a part or all of the aforementioned actuating elements on the drawbar.

The detection device is arranged on the front of the trailer and is designed accordingly. For this purpose, it can be provided with a suitable, e.g. magnetic, holder for a preferably detachable assembly. The preferably reproducible mounting position can be defined and specified. The preferably optical detection device can thus have the same conditions for teaching the target position and detecting the actual position.

The detection device is arranged in a position above the drawbar on the trailer front, e.g. on a body of the trailer. It has a detection area designed to detect the actuating element or elements. This can be directed at an angle from above onto the drawbar. In the case of an optical detection device, the detection area can be a viewing area.

The detection device has a preferably optical detection means. This can e.g. be an electric camera. A TOF camera (time-of-flight camera) has particular advantages. It emits several beams, in particular light beams, which hit the drawbar area and the actuating element (s) and are reflected back, with a 3D image of the drawbar area and the actuating element or elements being generated from the differences in transit time. The detection device and the detection means can alternatively detect the said positions of the actuating element (s) in another way, e.g. inductively, capacitively or the like. Instead of the TOF camera, another optical detection means can be used for the detection of 3D images.

A TOF camera has particular advantages in terms of insensitivity to environmental influences which can impair the detection result, e.g. rain, strong sunshine with reflections, etc. A TOF camera that emits light rays in the infrared range has particular advantages.

The detection device has an evaluation device. This can have a comparison device and a memory for the image data of the predetermined target position of the actuating element or elements. Images, in particular 3D images, of the desired position of the actuating element or elements are preferably stored and compared with images, in particular 3D images, of the actual position during the safety check. The target position can be specified in any way, for example by teaching with the detection device and the detection means. The comparison device can be designed electronically and can have a microprocessor, for example.

During teaching, on the one hand, a relevant actuating element can be distinguished from its surroundings and, on the other hand, its target position can be recognized. Differentiating from the environment reduces the comparison effort and increases the comparison quality in the subsequent security check. Teaching can take place for one or more actuating elements.

During teaching, images, in particular 3D images, of the desired position, e.g. closed position, of an actuating element and of a misalignment, e.g. open position, of the same actuating element can be recorded by the preferably optical detection means under the same recording conditions. In the aforementioned positions, in particular, the distances between representative contour points of the actuating element relative to the aforementioned detection means can change. The images recorded during teaching, in particular 3D images, can then be compared with one another, in particular by subtraction or coordinate comparison of image points. Spatial differences can be recorded here. The differences in distance determined in a 3D image can be particularly helpful.

After the image backgrounds are the same and can therefore be faded out, the relevant actuating element or the associated relevant image area can be recognized and defined in the overall image during the said teaching comparison. In particular, the image differences between the desired position and the incorrect position that only occur when the actuating element is adjusted can be recognized and evaluated. The image area which is important for the later target / actual comparison during the security check can be defined or weighted from the overall image recorded during teaching. The later target / actual comparison can concentrate on this relevant image area. Falsifications of the detection result due to any changes in the background area between the taught target image and the actual image can be excluded.

During teaching, several actuating elements can be recorded together in one image, in particular a 3D image, with their target position and incorrect position. Correspondingly, several important image areas in the overall image can be recognized and defined or weighted.

During teaching, at least the image, in particular the 3D image, of the target position and possibly also that of the incorrect position is stored. During the safety check, the images, in particular 3D images, of the target position and the actual position of one or more actuating element (s) can be compared in the manner described above, e.g. by subtraction.

In addition, the image of the actual position can be compared with the image of the misalignment. This can increase the detection reliability. If the images match, a misalignment or open position of the actuating element is reliably detected.

The detection device can be designed to emit a signal which represents the comparison result of the position comparison. This can preferably be a simple warning signal. The signaling of more complex data, e.g. image data, is not required. Nevertheless, it can also take place if necessary.

The detection device can thus be designed to be particularly inexpensive and inexpensive. The comparison of the actual and target position can be carried out by a detection means, e.g. a TOF camera, and an evaluation device integrated there, in particular an image evaluation device. The programming effort is low. Additional software and hardware can be dispensed with. The effort for the image evaluation, e.g. through pixel comparison, is low.

The emission of a simple warning signal has the advantage that it can easily be detected by the operator, e.g. the driver or another person. It prompts the operator to check the coupling situation of the trailer to the towing vehicle again and to rectify the safety problem.

A safety problem can exist, for example, in a tiller support that has not been moved into the rest position and / or a handbrake lever that is still on and / or a non-activated breakaway device and / or a clutch actuator that is still open, in particular a clutch lever that has not been pivoted into the rest position.

Said trailer-side communication means can be used in different ways be trained. In a simple embodiment, the detection device causes the emission of an acoustic and / or optical warning signal that can be perceived on the trailer.

Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to emit a signal which can be perceived remotely or at another point optically, acoustically or in some other way, e.g. on a smartphone and / or a navigation system of the towing vehicle or the like.

The trailer-side communication means can be designed as a software module and / or as a communication device. This can be arranged on the trailer. A communication device can already be present on the trailer, e.g. as on-board communication of a caravan. The communication means can be implemented as a software module in this existing communication device. On the other hand, the communication device can be a component of the monitoring device. The communication device can e.g. be integrated into the detection device or arranged externally on the trailer.

The detection device can be connected to an external communication device via a data connection, which can be wireless or wired, in particular as a bus line, for example.

The monitoring device can have a mobile communication device. This can, for example, be designed as a mobile software module, in particular as an app. Such a mobile software module can be implemented in a smartphone, a tablet, an in-vehicle navigation system, a monitoring remote control or the like. The mobile software module can communicate with the trailer-side software module on the communication device mentioned, for example wirelessly by radio, Bluetooth, infrared or the like. Here, for example, optical and / or acoustic warning signals, for example in the form of pop-ups, can be displayed on a vehicle or operator-side device are emitted.

The monitoring device and the monitoring process can be produced and traded independently. A monitoring device can be built into a trailer during its manufacture. It can also be retrofitted or converted to an existing trailer. The teaching process can be carried out by the user himself. The operation of the monitoring device and the monitoring method is very simple and easy to understand.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

• 1: ein straßengängiges Gespann mit einem Zugfahrzeug, einem Anhänger und einer Überwachungseinrichtung in einer abgebrochenen Seitenansicht,
• 2: eine Variante von 1 mit einem niedrigeren Anhänger und einer anderen Position der Überwachungseinrichtung,
• 3: die Überwachungseinrichtung von 1 und 2 in Verbindung mit einem Fahrer und einem Smartphone,
• 4: eine schematische Darstellung von Komponenten einer Detektionseinrichtung der Überwachungseinrichtung,
• 5 und 6: einen abgekuppelten Anhänger in verschiedenen Stellungen,
• 7: ein gekuppeltes Gespann in einem nicht fahrsicheren Zustand und
• 8: eine Draufsicht auf den Deichselbereich des Anhängers und den Heckbereich des Zugfahrzeugs.

The invention is shown schematically and by way of example in the drawings. Show in detail:

• 1 : a road-going combination with a towing vehicle, a trailer and a monitoring device in a broken side view,
• 2 : a variant of 1 with a lower trailer and a different position of the monitoring device,
• 3 : the monitoring device of 1 and 2 in connection with a driver and a smartphone,
• 4th : a schematic representation of components of a detection device of the monitoring device,
• 5 and 6th : an uncoupled trailer in different positions,
• 7th : a coupled vehicle combination that is not safe to drive and
• 8th : a plan view of the drawbar area of the trailer and the rear area of the towing vehicle.

The invention relates to a monitoring device and a monitoring method for a road combination ( 2 ) of a towing vehicle ( 3 ) and a trailer to be coupled ( 5 ). The invention also relates to a device with a monitoring device ( 1 ) equipped trailer.

The road-going team ( 2 ) is designed for road traffic. The towing vehicle ( 3 ) can, for example, be a road vehicle in the form of a car, mobile home, light vehicle or the like. The towing vehicle ( 3 ) has a drawbar coupling ( 4th ) on. This can for example be designed as a rigid or movable ball head coupling or in some other way. The trailer ( 5 ) is also designed as a road vehicle. It has a front drawbar ( 8th ) with a trailer coupling ( 9 ), a chassis ( 6th ) with one or more axles plus wheels and a body ( 7th ) on. The drawbar ( 8th ) can be designed as a rigid drawbar, in particular a V-shaped drawbar or tubular drawbar, or as a movable drawbar. The train coupling ( 4th ) and the trailer coupling ( 9 ) are designed to match, whereby the trailer coupling ( 9 ) eg has a ball socket for receiving the ball head. The one or more axles can be designed as preferably sprung control arm axles, for example trailing arm axles or trailing arm axles. The structure ( 7th ) can be designed in different ways and can have different heights to have. In 1 is a towering box structure and in 2 a flat bed structure shown. The trailer ( 5 ) can also have a service brake and a parking brake. Alternatively, it can be an unbraked trailer. The trailer ( 5 ) can be an in 8th have indicated longitudinal axis.

On the drawbar ( 8th ) are one or more actuating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ), which can be safety-relevant for the coupled trailer operation. An actuating element that is usually present ( 10 ) is designed as a clutch actuator and is attached to the trailer hitch ( 9 ) arranged. The clutch actuator is formed, for example, by a clutch lever shown in the drawings and an engagement indicator, not shown. The actuating element ( 10 ) or the clutch actuator actuates a clutch mechanism to fix the train coupling ( 4th ) in the mounting position on the trailer coupling ( 9 ). The coupling mechanism can, for example, have a spherical cap that can be pressed onto the spherical head and a linkage and tension spring.

Another actuator ( 11 ) is designed as a brake actuator, for example in the form of the handbrake lever shown. With an unbraked trailer, the actuating element ( 11 ) absence.

Another actuator ( 11 ' ) is designed as a breakaway device. This will be done when the trailer is properly coupled ( 5 ) e.g. activated manually and also connects the trailer ( 5 ) with the towing vehicle ( 3 ). The breakaway device detects a tearing away of the coupled trailer ( 5 ) from the towing vehicle ( 3 ) while the trailer is in motion ( 2 ) and then triggers a safety response. It can be torn loose by detaching, for example, a pluggable pull coupling ( 4th ) from the towing vehicle ( 3 ), a detachment of the trailer coupling ( 9 ) from the train coupling ( 4th ) or the like. The safety reaction can, for example, be an automatic actuation of a braking device on the trailer ( 5 ) consist.

Another and possibly unnecessary actuating element ( 12 ) is designed as a support, in particular a drawbar support. This can be, for example, an adjustable support wheel shown in the drawings, which consists of a support position contacting the ground and a support position in 1 and 2 retracted or raised rest position shown can be moved. A support wheel, for example, with its upright shaft can be rigidly attached to the drawbar ( 8th ), whereby the wheel can be raised and lowered and possibly pivoted by means of a hand crank and a gear mechanism.

When moving back into the rest position, the wheel can be guided and can assume a defined position and orientation in the rest position.

The monitoring device ( 1 ) has an optical detection device ( 13 ) and a trailer-side communication tool ( 20th ), which in the operating position on the trailer ( 5 ) are arranged and are designed in a suitable manner for this purpose.

The detection device ( 13 ) is on the front of the trailer ( 5 ) and at a distance above the drawbar ( 8th ) arranged. The monitoring device ( 1 ) can use an in 4th holder shown schematically ( 19th ) exhibit. This can, for example, be a mounting bracket for the detachable mounting of the detection device ( 13 ) be. The holder ( 19th ) a fixed or detachable, e.g. magnetic holding means for rigid or detachable fastening on the front of the body ( 7th ) or elsewhere on the trailer ( 5 ) exhibit. According to 1 and 2 the detection device ( 13 ) depending on the body height at different heights on the trailer ( 5 ) to be assembled. It can also be installed on a separate support frame, for example on platform trailers.

The detection device ( 13 ) has an optical detection means ( 15th ), which is designed as a TOF camera, for example. The detection device ( 13 ) also has an evaluation device ( 16 ) according to 4th a comparison device ( 17th ) and a memory ( 18th ) for image data. The memory ( 18th ) or another memory can hold additional data, programs or the like. The evaluation device ( 16 ) may contain an electronic microprocessor. She can look at the camera ( 15th ) be integrated or can be arranged elsewhere.

The detection device ( 13 ) points to the drawbar ( 8th ) and one or more actuating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ) directed detection area ( 14th ) on. With the optical detection means ( 15th ), especially the TOF camera or another camera, this is the viewing area. The detection area ( 14th ) is preferably at an angle from above onto the drawbar ( 8th ) directed. Depending on the height of the detection device ( 13 ) the angular alignment of the detection area ( 14th ) to the drawbar ( 8th ) vary.

The trailer-side communication tool ( 20th ) is designed, for example, as a software module and is in a communication device ( 21st ) arranged in a suitable position on the trailer ( 5 ) is mounted. The data connection ( 23 ) between the detection device ( 13 ) and the means of communication ( 20th ) or the communication device ( 21st ) can be designed as a wireless connection or as a wired connection, in particular as a bus line.

The communication device ( 21st ) can also be used for communication from other trailer components, e.g. from a roll brake, a brake temperature monitor, a remote control for a heater or from other structural components or the like. Instead of the external arrangement of communication means shown ( 20th ) and communication device ( 21st ) is one in the detection device ( 13 ) integrated arrangement possible.

The detection device ( 13 ) has a suitable housing to accommodate the aforementioned components. The housing can, for example, have a cubic shape or a pyramid shape. The detection means ( 15th ) can be adjusted, in particular pivoted on the front or underside of the detection device ( 13 ) be arranged.

It is e.g. obliquely on the adze ( 8th ) aligned.

The detection device ( 13 ) can have any suitable power supply. Alternatively or additionally, it can be connected to an energy supply for the trailer ( 5 ) get connected. The own energy supply can for example have an electric battery and possibly its own power generator, for example in the form of a solar cell.

The monitoring device ( 1 ), especially the detection device ( 13 ), can be activated as required by an operator and / or automatically by means of a sensor system (not shown). It can also be switched off again by a command from the operator or from the sensor. A sensor system can be attached to the trailer coupling ( 9 ) and can be coupled to the train coupling ( 4th ) by contact, electrical short circuit, inductive or the like. A driving operation of the team ( 2 ) can be detected, for example, by a wheel sensor, a sensor on an overrun device or the like.

The detection device ( 13 ) is provided and designed for this purpose, an actual position of at least one actuating element ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ) to be detected and saved with a target position of the relevant actuating element ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ) to compare. This preferably applies to the actuating element designed as a clutch actuator ( 10 ). The detection device ( 13 ) the actual position of several or all of the mentioned actuating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ) and to compare it with an associated and stored target position of the respective actuating element.

The target position is determined e.g. by means of the detection device ( 13 ) and a teach mode to be called up there and stored in the memory ( 18th ) saved. This can be done, for example, in the form of an image file. A TOF camera, for example, emits a large number of parallel light beams in a dense matrix and has appropriate sensors for recording the associated reflected light beam. The distance can be determined from the transit time between the emission of the beam and the reception of the reflected light, and from this a 3D image of the tiller area and the one or more in the detection area ( 14th ) detected actuating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ) are formed.

In the case of the actuating element designed as a clutch actuator ( 10 ) For example, the clutch lever assumes a pivoted lower position. Furthermore, the marker pen of a possible snap-in indicator can be pushed out. This position of the actuating element ( 10 ) is used when the trailer coupling ( 9 ) correctly on the coupling ( 4th ) is put on and engaged and in this regard driving safety for the trailer ( 2 ) consists. If the coupling process is incorrect, the actuating element ( 10 ) take a different position. Here, for example, the clutch lever can be used in 7th Assume the upright position shown and / or the marker pen of the locking indicator remain in the immersed position. Depending on the design of the clutch actuator, there may be other differences in position from other actuator parts.

In the case of the actuating element designed as a brake actuator ( 11 ) For example, a handbrake lever or another device for actuating the parking brake can be pivoted on the drawbar ( 8th ) be stored. In the release position, the brake actuator assumes a lowered position, as shown in, for example 1 and 2 is shown.

When the parking brake is applied, the brake actuator has an inclined upward position and orientation. In addition, the position of any overrun brake that may be present can be detected.

The actuating element designed as a breakaway lock ( 11 ' ) its activation and the position assumed can be detected. The actuating element ( 11 ' ) a mark ( 26th ) which indicates proper activation, for example in an optically detectable manner. 1 , 2 and 8th illustrate this training.

The actuating element ( 11 ' ) one or more securing elements ( 24 , 25th ) that have the coupled trailer ( 5 ) and the towing vehicle ( 3 ) connect. A trailer-side securing element ( 24 ) can be designed, for example, as a flexible rope, as a dimensionally stable bracket or the like. It can be secured with a securing element on the towing vehicle ( 25th ), e.g. a mounting bracket on the towing vehicle ( 3 ), or with the neck of the drawbar coupling ( 4th ) are preferably connected with tensile strength for activation. The trailer-side securing element ( 24 ) can be connected to a releasing part of the braking device, for example to the handbrake lever and / or a reversing lever of an overrun device, in such a way that a pulling and actuating force for the wheel brakes is developed when it is pulled away.

The mark ( 26th ) can e.g. at the free end of the trailer-side securing element ( 24 ) be arranged. The free end can be used for said and preferably manual activation on the safety element on the tractor vehicle side ( 25th ) are attached. The mark ( 26th ) is then in a predetermined, detectable and teachable position.

Alternatively or additionally, the trailer-side securing element ( 24 ) and its position can be detected. The trailer-side securing element ( 24 ) can be attached to the drawbar ( 8th ), especially on the trailer coupling ( 9 ) be guided so movably that it assumes a predetermined position when activated.

With one as a support for the drawbar ( 8th ), in particular as a support wheel, designed actuating element ( 12 ) the position of the wheel can be detected. Alternatively, it is also possible to detect the position of another actuator part, which represents at least the rest position and possibly also the support position. This can be a hand crank, for example, which carries out a detectable lifting and lowering movement when the support wheel is operated. There are also other options.

1 and 2 show a safe target position of the actuating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ). The trailer ( 5 ) is correct on the towing vehicle ( 3 ) coupled. The parking brake is released, the breakaway device is activated and the support wheel ( 12 ) is in the retracted or raised rest position. This target position can be taught and saved.

3 shows an unsafe driving situation for the coupled combination ( 2 ), in which e.g. the actuating element ( 12 ), in particular the support wheel, does not assume the rest position, but an intermediate position and could collide with the ground while driving. Furthermore, the actuating element ( 11 ' ), especially the anti-breakaway device, is not activated. The detected actual position of the actuating elements ( 11 ' , 12 ) deviates from the safe target position.

In 7th are all actuating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ) is shown in an unsafe actual position, the safe target position being shown in dashed lines.

In 5 is the uncoupled trailer ( 5 ) with the brake actuator applied ( 11 ) and the extended and in the support position ( 12 ) shown.

The detection device ( 13 ), in particular their evaluation device ( 16 ), in the preferred embodiment, compares the actual and target position of the one or more detected actuating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ) by. This comparison during the safety check and prior teaching can be carried out in the manner described above.

If a discrepancy is found during the comparison, the detection device emits ( 13 ) through the means of communication ( 20th ) one for an operator, e.g. the one in 3 driver shown, a signal that can be perceived in any suitable manner. The monitoring device ( 1 ) can be used according to 3 an external and mobile means of communication ( 22nd ), which is designed, for example, as a software module, in particular as an app, and with the trailer-side communication means ( 20th ) communicates in the event of a signal.

The mobile communication medium ( 22nd ) can run in a suitable display device and possibly be saved. Such a display device can, for example, be the one in 3 shown smartphone, a tablet, a vehicle's own navigation system or dgk. his. The display device can be present separately or it can be part of the monitoring device ( 1 ) be.

Via the trailer-side communication tool ( 20th ) and the internal or external communication device ( 21st ) becomes the mobile communication medium ( 22nd ) and prompted to signal a suitable message, e.g. an acoustic and / or optical message. Communication can be wireless and, if necessary, with a limited range. This can be done, for example, by radio, Bluetooth, ultrasound, infrared or the like.

A bidirectional communication link between the means of communication ( 20th , 22nd ) can also be used to activate and, if necessary, deactivate the monitoring device ( 1 ) and may be used for other purposes.

That from the detection device ( 13 ) The signal emitted via the communication link described can be a simple warning signal which only arouses the attention of the operator, for example the driver, and prompts him to check the coupling situation.

Furthermore, it is possible, when comparing the actual and target position, to create a comparison image on which the detected difference or differences are perceptibly marked, for example in color. Through the means of communication ( 20th , 22nd ) the relevant image can be displayed on the external, in particular mobile, display device. With the safety warning, the operator also receives an indication of the location of the detected position error or the relevant actuating element ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ).

In another and simpler embodiment, the means of communication ( 20th ) even on the trailer ( 5 ) emit a signal that can be perceived, for example, optically and / or acoustically and / or haptically. This can be, for example, a stroke tone in connection with a flashing light.

5 shows the uncoupled trailer ( 5 ) in a standby position, in which a safe coupling to the towing vehicle (not shown) ( 3 ) is possible. The parking brake is applied and the drawbar ( 8th ) is in a floating position suitable for coupling from the support wheel ( 12 ) held. The towing vehicle ( 3 ) to the parked and stationary trailer ( 5 ) can be maneuvered.

Alternatively, a maneuvering drive (not shown) for the trailer ( 5 ) are operated to release the trailer ( 5 ) to the stationary towing vehicle ( 3 ) to maneuver. To do this, it is necessary to release the parking brake and press the actuating element ( 11 ) in the release position. This can be done by the monitoring device ( 1 ) can also be detected. The target position of the actuating elements intended for coupling differs from the safe target position of the already coupled combination ( 2 ) from. The deviation concerns the actuating element ( 12 ), e.g. support wheel, which assumes the support position shown in contact with the ground for the towing vehicle or trailer-side maneuvering operation.

6th shows a position of the uncoupled trailer ( 5 ) that is not suitable for coupling. The drawbar ( 8th ) is swiveled away and lies with the front end or the trailer coupling ( 9 ) on the ground. The actuating element ( 12 ), e.g. support wheel, is in the rest position. This unsuitable position for coupling can be monitored by the monitoring device ( 1 ) can also be detected and signaled.

The detection device ( 13 ) have an additional function. In addition to the one or more actuating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ) also the ground and the relative position or the distance between the drawbar ( 8th ) and the subsurface. The associated target position for the relative position of the drawbar ( 8th ) to the underground is in 5 shown. It can also be taught. At the in 6th shown deviation of the actual position of the drawbar ( 8th ) a signal of the type mentioned can be sent from the detection device ( 13 ) are emitted.

8th shows a top view of the drawbar ( 8th ) and the operating elements ( 10 , 11 , 11 ' , 12 ). The rear of the towing vehicle ( 3 ) and the train coupling ( 4th ) are also shown.

Modifications of the embodiments shown and described are possible in various ways. The features of the exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another and also interchanged.

With an unbraked trailer ( 5 ) the actuating element designed as a brake actuator ( 11 ) and its detection are omitted. The same applies in the absence of an actuating element designed as a support ( 12 ). An actuating element designed as a breakaway lock ( 11 ' ) can emit a warning signal if it is torn away.

List of reference symbols

1

Monitoring device

2

Team

3

Towing vehicle

4th

Train coupling

5

pendant

6

chassis

7th

construction

8th

Drawbar

9

trailer hitch

10

Actuator, clutch lever

11

Actuator, handbrake lever

11 '

Actuating element, breakaway device

12

Actuator, support wheel

13

Optical detection device

14th

Detection area

15th

Camera, TOF camera

16

Evaluation device

17th

Comparison facility

18th

Storage

19th

holder

20th

Means of communication

21st

Communication device on the trailer

22nd

Means of communication mobile

23

Data connection, bus line

24

Securing element, connector

25th

Securing element, ball neck, fixing part

26th

mark

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• DE 102005052238 A1 [0002]
• DE 4124974 A1 [0004]
• DE 102004022113 A1 [0005]
• DE 102017128292 A1 [0006]
• DE 202016123725 A1 [0007]
• DE 202011103901 U1 [0008]
• DE 102018212963 A1 [0009]

Claims (18)

Monitoring device for a road combination (2) of a towing vehicle (3) and a trailer (5) to be coupled, which has a drawbar (8) with at least one actuating element (10, 11, 11 ', 12) there, which is safety-relevant for the coupled operation is, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) has a preferably optical detection device (13) and a communication device (20), the detection device (13) being provided and designed to determine an actual position of at least one actuating element (10, 11 , 11 ', 12) on the drawbar (4) to be detected and to be compared with a stored target position of the actuating element (10,11,11', 12) provided and stored for the safe coupled trailer operation, and if a deviation in the actual Position of the target position to emit a signal through the communication means (20). Monitoring device according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the detection device (13) is provided and designed for a front-side arrangement on the trailer (5) above the drawbar (8). Monitoring device according to Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the detection device (13) has a preferably optical detection means (15) for detecting the actuating element or elements (10, 11, 11 ', 12). Monitoring device according to Claim 3 , characterized in that the optical detection means (15) captures images, in particular 3D images, of the target position and the actual position of at least one actuating element (10, 11, 11 ', 12). Monitoring device according to Claim 3 or 4th , characterized in that the detection means (15) is designed as an electrical camera, in particular as a TOF camera. Monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detection device (13) has an evaluation device (16), in particular an image evaluation device, for the comparison of the desired position and the actual position. Monitoring device according to Claim 6 , characterized in that the evaluation device (16) has a comparison device (17) and a memory (18) for image data of the predetermined, preferably taught, target position of the actuating element or elements (10, 11, 11 ', 12). Monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detection device (13) has a position of an actuating element (10) designed as a clutch actuator, in particular a clutch lever, and / or a position of an actuating element (11) designed as a brake actuator, in particular hand brake lever, and / or a position of an actuating element (11 ') designed as a breakaway safety device and / or a position of an actuating element (12) designed as a drawbar support, in particular a support wheel, is detected. Monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detection device (13) is designed to emit a signal representing the comparison result. Monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) has a mobile communication means (22) which is designed as a software module, in particular as an app, and / or as a mobile communication device. Monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the monitoring device (1) has a holder (19) for preferably detachable and reproducible mounting on the trailer (5). Road-going trailer are arranged with a drawbar (8) to which a trailer coupling (9) and one or more actuating elements (10,11,11 ', 12) which are relevant to safety for a coupled pair operation with a road-going tractor vehicle (3), characterized characterized in that the trailer (5) has a monitoring device (1) which, according to at least one of the Claims 1 to 11 is trained. Trailer after Claim 12 , characterized in that the detection device (13) is arranged on the front of the trailer (5), in particular on a structure (7) of the trailer (5), the detection area (14) acting on the one or more actuating elements (10, 11, 11 ', 12) is directed. Trailer after Claim 12 or 13 , characterized in that the detection device (13) is arranged at a distance above the drawbar (8). Trailer after Claim 12 , 13 or 14th , characterized in that the trailer (5) has a communication device (21) which is coupled to the detection device (13) via a data connection (22). Trailer after one of the Claims 12 to 15th , characterized in that an actuation element (10) as a clutch actuator, in particular a clutch lever and / or an actuation element (11) as a brake actuator, in particular a handbrake lever and / or an actuation element (11 ') as a breakaway safety device and / or an actuation element (12) as a drawbar support, in particular support wheel is formed. Method for monitoring a road-going combination (2) of a towing vehicle (3) and a trailer (5) to be coupled, which has a drawbar (8) with at least one actuating element (10, 11, 11 ', 12) there, which is used for the coupled operation is safety-relevant, characterized in that an actual position of at least one actuating element (10,11,11 ', 12) on the drawbar (4) is detected with a preferably optical detection device (13) and an actual position is provided for the safe coupled trailer operation stored target position of the actuating element (10,11,11 ', 12) is compared, with a signal being emitted by a communication means (20) when a discrepancy between the actual position and the target position is determined. Procedure according to Claim 17 , characterized in that the target / actual comparison is carried out as an optical image comparison of 3D images.

Images