Energy chain for high traction forces and / or with securing means

Abstract

The invention relates to an energy chain (1) for guiding lines, having chain links (6) formed of side plates (2) which are connected to one another via at least one cross-piece (4). Each side plate (2) consists of two plate parts (10) which are connected to one another and form an inner passage (25, 27) for the pull cable (5). The energy chain (1) has two plate strands (2A; 2B) with side plates (2) which are articulatedly connected and each strand comprises a traction cable (5) for transmitting traction forces, which traction cable (5) is guided through the plate strand (2A; 2B) inside the side plates (2). In order to secure the cross-piece (4), at least one side plate (2) has a cross-piece holding pocket (40) which is open on the inner side (7) and into which the cross-piece (4) can be inserted in the transverse direction (A). A locking opening (42) which is open on the outer side (8) makes it possible to insert a locking element (30) which engages in a locking region (41) of the cross-piece (4) and secures same.

Description

[0001] Energy chain for high tensile forces and / or with

[0002] Loss of safety

[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field of energy chains. According to a first aspect, the invention relates in particular to an energy chain designed for transmitting high tensile forces. According to a second aspect, the invention relates to an energy chain equipped with an improved anti-loss device, in particular to prevent the loss of individual components of the chain links during operation of the energy chain.

[0004] A typical energy chain is used to guide supply lines, such as hoses for media, cables for electrical power or signals, or the like. Energy chains typically consist of chain links, each made up of two opposing side plates and at least one crossbar connecting the side plates perpendicular to the chain's longitudinal direction. In conventional designs, the side plates and the crossbar form a guide channel open along the length of the energy chain for guiding the lines. Typical energy chains consist of two longitudinally running strands of side plates, hereinafter referred to as link strands, which are each articulated and successively linked along the length of the chain.

[0005] The present invention relates in particular to energy chains with side plates made of plastic.

[0006] Specific designs for energy chain systems are already known in which a rope for transmitting tensile forces is provided within each strand of links or similar components. An example is the energy chain system previously disclosed in WO 2014 / 170272 Al. In this system, the side sections are made of a water-resistant, flexible material, and a tensile-strength, water-resistant rope extends through these sections along the entire length of the energy chain. This energy chain system is specifically designed for offshore applications.

[0007] A first object of the present invention is to propose a simplified, cost-effective design of an energy chain which is particularly suitable for transmitting tensile forces compared to conventional energy chains.

[0008] A second object of the invention is to further develop energy chains in such a way that individual chain links are better secured against loss. In particular, this is intended to prevent the danger posed by falling parts in energy chains running at a height or, for example, in suspended applications.

[0009] The first-mentioned problem is solved according to a first aspect by an energy supply chain according to claim 1 or a chain link for an energy supply chain according to claim 2.

[0010] Independently of this, according to a second aspect, the second-mentioned problem is solved by an energy supply chain according to claim 16 and by a chain link according to claim 17. Advantageous features for both aspects are set out in the dependent claims.

[0011] FIRST ASPECT OF THE INVENTION

[0012] According to a first aspect, an energy supply chain with the features of the preamble from claim 1 is proposed.

[0013] To solve the first problem, the invention provides that each link strand of the energy chain comprises a tension cable designed for, or serving to transmit, tensile forces. Furthermore, the invention provides that each of the two opposing side links of a chain link is composed of two interconnected, in particular plate-like, link parts. In the assembled state, the combined link parts form an inner, longitudinally extending passage for the tension cable, allowing the tension cable to be guided longitudinally through the passage within the links and thus through the respective link strand.

[0014] Accordingly, the invention also relates to such a chain link for an energy chain, wherein the chain link comprises two opposing side plates, in particular made of plastic, which are connected to each other via at least one transverse web. According to the invention, each of the two opposing side plates of the chain link is composed of two interconnected plate parts, which form an inner passage for a pull rope in order to guide the pull rope through the plate strand.

[0015] The proposed design enables cost-effective production of the individual side plates and also simplifies assembly and maintenance. It allows the use of a wide variety of tow ropes, optimally adapted to the specific requirements and independent of the side plates. The tow ropes and side plates are made of different materials, allowing the tow ropes to be selected from a material with particularly high tensile strength. The side plate material can ensure high dimensional stability (against tensile, torsional, and / or compressive forces) and high flexural rigidity of the plates and the chain links as a whole.

[0016] The tab parts are preferably essentially plate-like and / or preferably designed as rigid or dimensionally stable plastic parts during operation.

[0017] The individual tab parts of each are particularly preferred.

[0018] The side tabs are manufactured as identical parts, meaning they are designed with the same components. This allows each side tab to be constructed from two identical tab parts. This further reduces manufacturing costs, simplifies assembly, and minimizes inventory.

[0019] Particularly preferred is the use of only one type of link component for the two opposing side plates of the chain links, i.e., composed of four identical link components, with two identical link components (identical parts) per side plate. This allows four identical components or identical parts to be used to manufacture the two side plates of a chain link. This further reduces manufacturing costs and simplifies assembly. However, it is also conceivable to use different link components, especially identical parts, in the left and right link strands, for example, to selectively adjust the relative pivot angles between the chain links.

[0020] Preferably, the tab parts are manufactured or produced as injection-molded parts made of plastic, in particular from a fiber-reinforced technical polymer.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the tab parts are designed such that two identical tab parts can be joined together by rotating them 180° around the longitudinal direction.

[0022] The joining or connection is carried out particularly in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction. The tab parts can be connected to each other, in particular, by frictional and / or form-fitting means. The tab parts can preferably also be locked together. However, any suitable joining technique is acceptable, especially without additional fasteners such as screws or the like, e.g., a material-bonded connection.

[0023] A suitable embodiment for advantageously joining the tab parts provides that the tab parts have cooperating connecting elements on their inner joining surface, with which the tab parts are joined, which are arranged conjugately and correspondingly with respect to a transverse median plane. The transverse median plane is a plane through the side tab or the tab part, which extends in the chain longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction transverse to the chain longitudinal direction, the transverse direction corresponding to the width of the tabs.

[0024] The connecting elements are preferably arranged and designed such that each connecting element of one tab part, when connecting with the corresponding connecting element of the other tab part, cooperates as intended to connect the two tab parts to form a side tab.

[0025] The tab parts can themselves have a tab shape and, in the manner of dividing the finished side tab in two, represent or form two parts, e.g., essentially two halves, of the finished side tab by their mid-height plane. The mid-height plane corresponds to the plane that extends in the chain's longitudinal direction and in the direction of the tab height.

[0026] In one embodiment, cooperating connecting elements can be provided by comprising at least one male connecting element, in particular a snap-fit ​​connecting element, and one female connecting element, in particular a snap-fit ​​connecting element. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting elements can further comprise one or more pairs of a male and a female positive-locking connector, for example a plug pin and a plug receptacle, for example with a self-locking conical shape.

[0027] A particularly advantageous type of connection technology is achieved when the corresponding connecting elements include at least one snap connector, e.g., a snap hook, and a corresponding receptacle or hook receiver or counterpart for the snap hook. The snap hook can be designed as a cantilevered snap hook and / or extend primarily in a transverse direction, approximately perpendicular to the mid-level plane towards the opposite tab section. Snap connectors or snap fasteners offer the particular advantage of simplifying assembly and further reducing the number of individual parts required.

[0028] The proposed snap connection can serve primarily to hold the two tab parts together during assembly. In other words, the snap connection alone does not necessarily guarantee the connection of the tab parts, but it can contribute to it.

[0029] For a secure connection of the tab sections to form a side tab, it can be provided, in particular, that the connector receptacle or hook receptacle for the snap hook is designed and dimensioned such that it is suitable and intended for receiving a separate latch or locking element. Such a latch or locking element can be inserted – preferably transversely into the connector receptacle – to secure the snap hook of one tab section against detaching from the connector receptacle on the other tab section. In this way, the locking element can block the movement of the snap hook and prevent it from detaching during operation.

[0030] Preferably, the locking element simultaneously engages a corresponding locking area of ​​a crossbar of the chain link, securing this crossbar to the side plate. This allows for the secure connection of the plate parts to each other and the simultaneous securing of a crossbar to the respective side plate in a single assembly step. This further simplifies assembly and also ensures particularly good protection against loss of the parts. The crossbar can be secured by the locking element and simultaneously prevent the locking element from loosening in the transverse direction, for example, by an additional snap connection between the locking element and the crossbar. Preferably, this is provided for each of the two crossbars of a chain link.Since each tab section has a connector receptacle and a corresponding snap hook, a total of two snap hooks and two connector receptacles are provided for each of the two-part side tab sections. Preferably, the connector receptacles are arranged in the upper and lower end regions with respect to the tab height, so that the locking element secures the crossbar on the side tab in a suitable, external position in the vertical direction.

[0031] In one embodiment, each link section has a first overlapping area with a pivot pin and a second overlapping area with a pivot receptacle corresponding to the pivot pin. This allows the overlapping areas of adjacent side links to be articulated together by connecting the two pivot pins of the first overlapping area to the corresponding conjugate pivot receptacles in the second overlapping area of ​​an adjacent side link to form a pivot joint. The preferred articulated connection of the chain links is thus a conventional reversible joint about an axis, in particular perpendicular to the main plane of the links or the vertical mid-plane, whereby the pin and receptacle are provided redundantly by both link sections. The pivot pins preferably project inwards into the two-part link body; that is, the arrangement is preferred so that the pivot receptacles are not accessible from the outside.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment with a joint connection consisting of a pivot pin and a pivot receptacle, each pivot pin preferably has a recess that serves as a passage for the traction cable and extends longitudinally. The recess is preferably symmetrical to the longitudinal direction and provided with end-flared edges. The recess can be flared in a curved shape, for example, similar to a chalice or trumpet, and allows the traction cable to rest flush within the pivot pin when the energy chain is deflected to a bend or wound onto or unwound from a drum. By means of a correspondingly shaped recess, it is possible to guide the traction cable centrally through the energy chain in the vertical direction of the side plates or along the neutral axis.

[0033] Preferably, the traction cable forms the neutral fiber of the energy chain, and accordingly, the articulated connections are preferably arranged such that the pivot axes of the articulated connection of the side tabs or tab parts cross the traction cable.

[0034] A favorable embodiment provides for the routing of the pull cable by having each of the two tab parts of a side tab, in particular the identically constructed tab part, have a longitudinally extending through-groove, preferably arranged centrally in the vertical direction, as a passage for the pull cable. A longitudinal projection is preferably provided offset vertically and adjacent to one side of the through-groove, projecting laterally and running parallel to the through-groove in the longitudinal direction. This longitudinal projection can provide additional protection against displacement of the two tab parts relative to each other in the vertical direction. This is achieved in particular by dimensioning the through-groove and the longitudinal projection appropriately to each other, so that the longitudinal projection of one tab part can be appropriately accommodated in a region of the through-groove of the other tab part when they are laterally joined.On the other hand, a suitably designed longitudinal projection counteracts unwanted separation of the link sections by the pull rope. Particularly with chain links pivoted relative to each other, the longitudinal projection can absorb forces in the vertical direction exerted by the pull rope, thus preventing the wire rope, which preferably runs centrally through the two connected link sections, from pushing the two link sections apart in the plane of separation or connection under tensile force.

[0035] In a preferred, but not mandatory, embodiment, the tab parts, in particular the structurally identical individual part used as a tab part, are designed such that the two-part assembled side tabs each form the shape of a fork tab, with an overlap area representing a fork for receiving a corresponding tab-like tongue in the opposite overlap area of ​​the adjacent side tab.

[0036] The energy chain is suitable for transmitting relatively high tensile forces, particularly for use as a supporting element for a vertically moving load. It is advantageous if the tension cable in each link strand is a wire rope extending longitudinally and protruding from the ends of the link strands. At their ends, the tension cables or wire ropes can form loops in a manner known per se, allowing for a simple connection between the two ends of the energy chain and the supporting structure and the load being supplied.

[0037] For certain applications, it is advantageous if the energy chain is designed so that it can be wound onto and off a drum. Such an application is described, for example, in patent DE 10 2012 110 967 B4.

[0038] SECOND ASPECT OF THE INVENTION

[0039] According to the second, independent aspect of the invention, an improvement to energy chains is proposed in such a way that the loss of individual components of the chain links during operation is largely avoided. In particular, the separation of the crossbars from the side plates and vice versa should be prevented more reliably.

[0040] This problem, already mentioned at the beginning as the second one, is solved by an energy supply chain according to claim 16 or a chain link according to claim 17.

[0041] In an energy chain according to the preamble of claim 16 or a chain link according to the preamble of claim 17, this is achieved according to the second aspect of the invention by the fact that at least one of the two side plates, or preferably both side plates, of a chain link have a crossbar retaining pocket that is open on the inside and, in particular, designed as a recess in the side plate, and which serves to fasten the crossbar. A longitudinal end of the crossbar can be inserted into this crossbar retaining pocket in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction. The crossbar retaining pocket can be designed such that it is completely enclosed in the circumferential direction around the transverse direction and is surrounded by the material of the side plate.The crossbar retaining pocket is thus designed in such a way that a crossbar can essentially only be detached from the side tab in the direction towards the inside of the chain link, but not in a direction perpendicular to it, as is usual with typical crossbar fastenings, in the height direction of the side tab.

[0042] In other words, the crossbar retaining pocket is preferably designed as a recess in the side flap such that a crossbar can only be inserted into or removed from it in a direction perpendicular to the main plane of the side flap, and not by movement in any direction within the main plane of the side flap. Small inclinations to the aforementioned directions are, of course, not excluded. With this design, the crossbar cannot be attached to or detached from the side flap in the vertical direction of the side flap, as is conventionally intended.

[0043] According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferably further provided that the side flap has a locking opening on the outer side facing away from the inside, which extends through the flap and opens into the crossbar retaining pocket, so that a locking element can be inserted from the outside through the locking opening and at least into or through the crossbar retaining pocket. By means of such a locking element, a

[0044] The crossbar is securely locked in place by the locking element engaging in a locking area of ​​the crossbar. The combination of locking element and locking opening thus allows the crossbar to be reliably secured in the crossbar retaining pocket against movement perpendicular to the main plane of the side flap.

[0045] In contrast to known locking solutions, such as those described in WO 99 / 54643 Al, the designs described in the second aspect do not require internal projections on the side plates for attaching the crossbars. Nevertheless, a robust and secure connection between the crossbar and the side plate is achieved, particularly because the end of the crossbar to be attached is firmly held within the body of the side plate itself.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the side plate on the inside, i.e., the side facing the cable entry space in the chain link, can be designed without or free of protrusions. In particular, the side plate can be designed without any retaining projection for attaching a crossbar. This offers the advantage of avoiding unnecessary protruding edges on the inside – which is desirable, among other things, for half-link energy chains.

[0047] Preferably, the side link has one of two preferably identically designed crossbar retaining pockets near each of its two narrow sides, i.e., the narrow sides running longitudinally along the energy chain and in the direction of the link width, or transversely between the inner and outer sides. In general, chain links are advantageous which connect the side links by means of an upper and a lower crossbar, the crossbars being attached to the links as close as possible to their narrow sides to maximize the receiving space. In a preferred embodiment, each crossbar retaining pocket has a full circumferential border formed by the body of the side link and is thus closed, particularly at the narrow sides, by a material bridge formed by the body of the side link.

[0048] The crossbar retaining pocket is generally preferably designed as a form-fitting receptacle, preferably providing a form-fitting hold in essentially every direction lying within the plane of the tabs. The basic shape of the crossbar retaining pocket, or its plan view in the plane of the tabs, is preferably conjugate to the cross-section of the crossbar in its end region.

[0049] Preferably, the longitudinal end of the crossbar is thus received in a form-fitting manner in the crossbar retaining pocket, which accordingly forms a form-fitting receptacle for the longitudinal end of the crossbar.

[0050] In a structurally simple embodiment, particularly when the side flaps are manufactured as injection-molded plastic parts, the retaining pocket can be designed as a recess in the transverse direction in the body of the side flap. Mechanically advantageously, the maximum depth of the retaining pocket (at its deepest point in the transverse direction) is less than 50% of the width of the side flap, especially the average material thickness.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of the locking element, it has a stop area at a first longitudinal end which interacts with the side tab, and a locking lug at the opposite second longitudinal end which can be locked with the crossbar to be secured.

[0052] Preferably, the side flap has a stop recess on its outer surface for each retaining pocket, designed to accommodate the locking element's stop area. This stop recess can encompass or be connected to the locking opening and is designed such that the locking element's stop area can be inserted in a form-fitting manner, preferably with its outer surface flush with the outer surface of the side flap. This allows for a smooth, edgeless outer surface of the side flap, even with the locking element inserted. Furthermore, the locking element is additionally held in the plane of the side flap. In a preferred embodiment, the locking element has an actuation recess at its second longitudinal end, which, when the locking element is inserted, aligns with an actuation opening in the locked crossbar.This allows the locking element to be unlocked and pushed outwards to the side using a tool, such as a flat screwdriver or similar tool.

[0053] The two independent aspects of the invention are explained in more detail below using only one common preferred embodiment, without limiting the scope of protection thereto. This is done with reference to the accompanying figures, which show:

[0054] FIG. 1A-1B: a perspective view of an embodiment of an energy guidance chain according to the invention with a pull rope in each link strand (FIG. 1A) and in a partial exploded view of two side links which are composed of two link parts (FIG. 1B) ;

[0055] FIG. 2A-2B: a perspective view of a preferred tab part as a common part for manufacturing the side tabs, in perspective view from inside (FIG. 2A) and from outside (FIG. 2B) ;

[0056] FIG. 3A-3C: Sectional views of an assembled chain link of an energy chain according to FIG. 1A-1B, in cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (FIG. 3A), in an enlarged partial view of area E from FIG. 3A (FIG. 3B) and in a horizontal longitudinal section through a link strand at the level of a tension cable (FIG. 3C); FIG. 4: a vertical longitudinal section through the deflection arc with side links angled to each other and through the tension cable guided through the side link;

[0057] FIG. 5: an exploded view according to area E from FIG. 3A, among other things to illustrate the joining technique of the tab parts according to the first aspect and the joining technique of the crossbars with the side tabs according to the second aspect;

[0058] FIG. 6A-6C: a locking element for securing a crossbar in perspective view (FIG. 6A), in side view (FIG. 6B) and in cross-section (FIG. 6C); and

[0059] FIG. 7A-7C: a cross member of conventional design (state of the art) in perspective view (FIG. 7A), in side view on the longitudinal side (FIG.7B) and in cross section (FIG. 7C).

[0060] FIG. 1A shows an energy chain, generally denoted by 1, consisting of chain links 6 linked together longitudinally L. Each chain link 6 is constructed from two side plates 2 and two crossbars 4 that hold these parallel to one another. The side plates 2 and crossbars 4 form a box-shaped frame with an internal receiving space for guiding supply lines. The chain links 6 can be pivoted relative to one another about a respective pivot axis A by means of suitable hinge connections, e.g., to form a deflection bend. The hinged side plates 2 form a left or first plate strand 2A and a right or second plate strand 2B. A tension cable 5 is passed through each plate strand 2A, 2B, running continuously through the plate strands 2A, 2B in the longitudinal direction. The tension cables terminate with eyelets 5A, 5B for application-dependent attachment of the energy chain 1 to, e.g.,a supporting structure and for attaching a consumer to be carried by the energy chain 1 (both not shown). The tension cables 5 are preferably wire ropes and serve to transmit tensile forces, wherein the tension cables 5 are selected accordingly depending on the load and independently of the side plates.

[0061] As can be seen in FIG. 1B, each of the two opposing side plates 2 of a chain link 6 is composed of two individual plate parts 10 connected to each other in the transverse direction or in the direction of the pivot axis A. In the assembled state, the plate parts 10 form an inner passage or opening extending in the longitudinal direction L, as can be seen further below in FIGS. 2A-2B and FIGS. 3A-3C. The side plates 2, each consisting of two plate parts 10, have a forked plate shape in top view.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the side plates 2 are composed of two identical parts 10, i.e., the two plate parts 10 are structurally identical, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 2A-2B. Each plate part 10 is preferably manufactured as an injection-molded part made of plastic, in particular of a fiber-reinforced technical polymer. Preferably, both opposing side plates 2 of a chain link 6 are also manufactured from one and the same identical plate part 10, i.e., by two interconnected identical parts as plate parts 10, each of which can be used in both the left plate strand 2A and the right plate strand 2B.

[0063] As can be seen, for example, in FIGS. 2A-2B in conjunction with FIG. 1B, one tab part 10 can be joined with an identical tab part 10 if one tab part 10 is rotated 180° about the longitudinal direction L relative to the other tab part 10 and then the two tab parts 10 are joined transversely to the longitudinal direction or in the direction of the pivot axis A with their joining side 11 located inside the side tab 2. The connection of the tab parts 10 is preferably force-fit and / or form-fit. For this purpose, cooperating connecting elements are provided on the joining side 11 located inside the side tab 2. In the example according to FIG. 2A-2B each on tab part 10 a male snap connection element in the form of a snap hook projecting from the joining side 11 and a corresponding connector receptacle 16 accessible from the inside 11 for the snap hook 14.The connector receptacle 16 can be, for example, a hook receiver or other suitable counterpart to the snap hook 14, forming a snap connection. Other suitable snap connections are also within the scope of the invention.

[0064] In opposite areas of the tab part 10, a further arrangement with at least one pair of male and female positive-locking connectors is provided. FIGS. 2A-2B show, for example, a conical plug pin 17 and, laterally offset from the snap hook 14, a corresponding plug receptacle 18 for the plug pin 17. The plug pin 17 and plug receptacle 18 ensure, among other things, a proper alignment of the connected tab parts 10.

[0065] The tab section 10 forms a first overlap area 10A and a second overlap area 10B, with which the longitudinally L linked side tabs 2 overlap in the assembled state, each consisting of two tab sections 10 in the tab strand 2A or 2B. The side tabs 2, made up of two connected tab sections 10, form a fork of the fork-tab shape in the first overlap area 10A and the corresponding tongue or counterpart for engagement with the fork in the second overlap area 10B.

[0066] To form a pivot joint in the form of a rotary joint for pivoting the chain links 6 or side plates 2 relative to each other about the respective pivot axis A, the plate part 10 forms a pivot pin 20 in the first overlap area 10A with a substantially circular cylindrical outer contour around the pivot axis A. In the other overlap area 10B, the plate part 10 forms a joint receptacle 22 in the form of a through hole open in the transverse direction with a circular cylindrical inner contour around the pivot axis A. To form the pivot joint from the pivot pin 20 and the joint receptacle 22, the pivot pin 20, in the assembled state, is inserted into the corresponding joint receptacle 22 of the adjacent plate part 10 in the longitudinal direction L.

[0067] Side tab 2 is inserted with play in movement, rotatable, see FIG. 4.

[0068] The side tabs 2 of a tab string 2A, 2B are connected to each other longitudinally by means of a pivot joint. This is achieved by connecting the two pivot pins 20 in the first overlap area 10A of the joined tab parts 10 to the corresponding pivot receptacles 22 in the second overlap area 10B of the adjacent longitudinally connected side tab 2, as shown, for example, in FIG. 1A or FIG. 4. The two-part design makes this assembly step particularly easy. To align the tab parts 10 with each other, further corresponding connecting elements, in the example shown in FIG. 2A-2B in the form of a pair of plug pins 23 and plug receptacles 24, can also be provided on the joining side 11 at the pivot pins 20.

[0069] As can be generally seen from FIG. 2A-2B, the tab part 10, which serves as a common part, is designed on its joining side 11 with corresponding connecting elements such that, with respect to a transverse median plane, i.e. a plane spanned by pivot axis A and longitudinal direction L, connecting elements 16, 17, 23 are provided in one half, which interact with correspondingly conjugated connecting elements 14, 18, 24 in the half of the tab part 10 opposite the transverse median plane in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner when connecting.

[0070] A snap-fit ​​connection, such as here by means of snap hooks 14 and connector receptacle 16, is preferably such that the tab parts 10 can be separated from each other as required for maintenance or repair purposes.

[0071] FIG. 2A shows a longitudinal groove 25 extending in the direction L on the joining side 11, with a web-like longitudinal projection 26 adjacent to one side of the groove. This projection extends laterally from the joining side 11 in the transverse direction and runs in the longitudinal direction L. The groove 25 is dimensioned to accommodate the corresponding longitudinal projection 26 of the additional tab section 10 to be joined, as shown in FIG. 3B. The longitudinal projection 26 thus also serves as a retainer against displacement in the vertical direction H (see FIG. 3B). As shown in FIG. 4, the longitudinal projection 26 serves as a support for the tension cable 5, particularly in the deflection bend, and thus prevents the tab sections 10 from being forced apart by the tension cable 5.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 2A, a longitudinally extending recess 27 is provided in the pivot pin 20 on the joining side 11, which is aligned with the through groove 25 for the pull cable 5. In FIG. 2A, the recess 27 is symmetrically widened in the longitudinal direction L with, in particular, curved boundary walls 28 according to a curve shape with a continuously decreasing radius or with increasing curvature in the longitudinal direction towards the end of the lug, similar to a trumpet shape. As illustrated in FIG. 4, this allows the pull cable 5 to rest flush against the curved boundary walls 28 of the recess 27.

[0073] As can be seen from a comparison of the sectional views in FIG. 3C and FIG. 4, the pull cable 5 runs centrally through the side tabs 2 formed by the joined, identical tab parts 10 according to FIG. 2A-2B. The pull cable 5 runs specifically through the through-groove 25 and the recess 27 of the two joined tab parts 10, see also FIG. 3B. In the other overlap area 10B, the tab part 10 can optionally have an additional recess 29 on the joining side 11 for the passage of the pull cable 5. When the side tabs 2 are linked longitudinally, this recess 29 forms a continuation of the recess 27 of the pivot pins 20.

[0074] As can best be seen from FIG. 2B, the tab part 10 can have optional inspection openings 15 at the level of the transverse center plane. Such optional inspection openings 15 allow the condition of the pull rope 5 to be checked from the outside.

[0075] To stabilize the lateral aspects of the tab strands 2A, 2B, the

[0076] The tab part 10 in the first overlap area 10A on the outside 12 has a circular arc-shaped engagement area 19A, which in the assembled or linked state engages in a free space behind a protruding retaining tongue 19B in the other overlap area 10B and remains held there when pivoting about the pivot axis A, as can also be seen in FIG. 1A or FIG. 3C.

[0077] FIG. 3A shows a chain link 6 in cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. In a fully webbed design of the energy chain 1, i.e., with cross webs 4 on each chain link 6, each chain link 6 comprises two side plates 2 and two cross webs 4, forming a box-shaped receiving space in cross-section for the cables to be guided. Each side plate 2 consists of two identical plate parts 10, which, as can best be seen by comparing FIG. 3B and FIG. 5, are joined together laterally. FIG. 3A-3B also show two separate locking elements 30, which are inserted into the side plate 2 from the outside to secure the two cross webs 4. The function of the locking elements 30 is discussed in more detail below in connection with FIG. 5-7.

[0078] Accordingly, in the preferred embodiment, a typical chain link 6 consists of a total of ten parts: four tab parts 10, four locking elements 30, and two crossbars 4. In addition, a pull rope 5 is passed through each of the tab strands 2A, 2B, but not an actual part of the chain link 6 itself.

[0079] The chain links 6 according to the first aspect can basically also be used without the pull rope 5.

[0080] Based on FIG. 5, FIG. 6A-6C and FIG. 7A-7C, a second independent aspect is then explained, which can generally also be used advantageously with other designs of the side flaps 2.

[0081] As illustrated in the exploded view in FIG. 5, each side tab 2, preferably both side tabs, has a crossbar retaining pocket 40 open on its inner side 7 for securing the crossbar 4. A longitudinal end of the crossbar 4 can be inserted into the crossbar retaining pocket 40 in a transverse direction, i.e., in a direction parallel to the pivot axis A. The retaining pocket 40 is a recess on the inner side 7, which is completely enclosed by the side tab 2 and has a plan conjugate to match the outer contour of the crossbar 4 at its longitudinal end.

[0082] Furthermore, the side flap 2 has an open locking opening 42 on its outer side 8, facing away from the inner side 7. This opening extends transversely into the crossbar retaining pocket 40 on the inner side 7, allowing a separate locking element 30, as shown in more detail in FIGS. 6A-6C, to be inserted transversely A from the outside through the locking opening 42. In its assembled state, the locking element 30 engages a locking area 41 at the end of the crossbar 4. The locking element 30 secures the crossbar 4 in the crossbar retaining pocket 40 on the side flap 2, or, in combination with the crossbar retaining pocket 40, securely connects the side flap 2 and the crossbar 4 to each other.

[0083] Thanks to the crossbar retaining pocket 40, the side flap 2 on the inside 7, which faces the receiving space for cables in the chain link 6, is designed without the retaining projections for attaching the crossbars 4 that are customary in the prior art. The crossbar 4 can have a conventional, known design intended for typical retaining projections, so that existing crossbars 4 can continue to be used. For example, a known design according to DE19541928C1 is suitable.

[0084] Shortly below the two longitudinally extending narrow sides 9 of the side flap 2, a preferably identically designed crossbar retaining pocket 40 is provided, so that two crossbars 4 can be attached to the side flap 2.

[0085] Each crossbar retaining pocket 40 is completely enclosed in the plane of the tab (spanned by the longitudinal direction L and the vertical direction H) by the body of the side tab 2 and is thus closed, particularly at the narrow side 9, in the vertical direction upwards and downwards. Accordingly, the crossbar retaining pocket 40 serves as a positive-locking receptacle in every direction of the plane of the tab (LH) for the positive-locking reception or retention of the longitudinal end of the crossbar 4. The contour of the crossbar retaining pocket 40 is correspondingly conjugate or selected to match the outer contour in the cross-section of the crossbar 4.

[0086] The crossbar retaining pocket 40 can be easily provided in injection molding as a recess in the transverse direction A in the body of the side flap 2. It preferably has a maximum depth of less than 50% of the mean width of the side flap 2, so that a robust fit in the side flap 2 is provided without excessively weakening the flap body.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 6A-6C, the separate locking element 30 has a stop area 33 at a first longitudinal end 31 and a locking lug 34 at the opposite second longitudinal end 32, which can be locked with the cross web 4, in particular the edge of an actuating opening 44 in the cross web, as can be seen, for example, in FIG. 3B.

[0088] The side flap 2 has a stop recess 43 on its outer side 8, into which the stop area 33 of the locking element 30 can be inserted appropriately, preferably in a form-fitting manner, so that the stop area 33 of the locking element 30 is flush with the outer side 8 of the side flap 2, as can be seen, for example, in FIG. 3B.

[0089] In the optional combination with two-part side flaps 2 consisting of two identical parts or flap parts 10, the stop recess 43 can be identical to the crossbar retaining pocket 40 and, depending on its position, can serve as a crossbar retaining pocket 40 on the inside 7 or as a locking recess or stop recess 43 on the outside 8. In this case, the stop area 33 of the locking element 30 has the same contour in the flap plane HL as the end of the crossbar 4 that engages in the crossbar retaining pocket 40.

[0090] As can best be seen in FIG. 6A in conjunction with FIG. 3B, the locking element 30 has an actuating recess 35 at its second longitudinal end 32. In the locked position (FIG. 3B), this recess aligns with an actuating opening 44 of the crossbar 4. The locking element 30 can be unlocked by means of the actuating recess 35 using a tool inserted through the actuating opening 44, allowing the locking element 30 to be unlocked or pushed outwards in the transverse direction A. A simple screwdriver, for example, can be used for this purpose.

[0091] In an optional, but particularly advantageous combination with two-part side tabs 2 consisting of two identical parts or tab parts 10 according to the first aspect, as best seen in FIG. 3B, the locking element 30 according to the second aspect can be used to simultaneously secure the snap hook 14 of the tab parts 10 against unintentional disengagement from the engagement with the other tab part 10. For this purpose, the connector receptacle 16 is also dimensioned to receive the separate locking element 30, which is inserted transversely and, in the locked state of the cross web 4, also secures the snap hook 14.

[0092] Reference numeral list Energy chain Side plates A, 2B Plate strand Crossbar Pull rope A, 5B Eyelet Chain links Inside (of the side plate) Outside (of the side plate) Narrow side (of the side plate) 0 Plate part 0A, 1OB Overlap area 1 Joining side / Inside 4 Snap hook 5 Inspection openings 6 Connector receptacle 7 Plug pin 8 Plug receptacle 9A Engagement area 9B Retaining tongue 0 Joint pin 2 Joint receptacle 3 Plug pin 4 Plug receptacle 5 Through groove 6 Longitudinal projection 7 Recess 8 Limiting wall 9 Recess 0 Locking element 1, 32 Longitudinal (locking element) 3 Stop area 4 Detent lug 35 Actuating recess

[0093] 40 crossbar holding pocket

[0094] 41 Locking area (crossbar)

[0095] 42 Locking opening (side flap) 43 Stop recess (possibly identical to retaining pocket 40)

[0096] A swivel axis

[0097] L Longitudinal direction

[0098] H Altitude

Claims

REQUIREMENTS 1. Energy chain (1) for guiding lines, such as hoses, cables or the like, with chain links (6) each comprising two opposing side plates (2), in particular made of plastic, which are connected to each other via at least one transverse web (4), wherein the energy chain has two link strands (2A; 2B) each with side plates (2) articulated to each other in the longitudinal direction (L), characterized in that each link strand (2A; 2B) comprises a pull rope (5) for transmitting tensile forces and each of the two opposing side plates (2) of a chain link (6) is composed of two interconnected link parts (10) which form an inner passage (25, 27) for the pull rope (5) in order to guide the respective pull rope (5) through the link strand (2A; 2B).

2. Chain link (6) for an energy chain, which has two link strands each with side links (2) articulated to each other in the longitudinal direction, wherein the chain link comprises two opposite side links (2), in particular made of plastic, which are connected to each other via at least one transverse web (4), characterized in that each of the two opposite side links (2) of the chain link (6) is composed of two interconnected link parts (10) which form an inner passage (25, 27) for a pull rope (5) in order to guide the pull rope through the link strand.

3. Energy supply chain according to claim 1 or chain link according to claim 2, characterized in that the tab parts (10) of each side tab (2) are designed as identical parts. are, in particular as injection-molded plastic parts, wherein the two opposing side tabs (2) are preferably composed of identical tab parts (10).

4. Device according to claim 3, characterized in that the tab parts (10) are designed such that one tab part (10) can be connected to the other tab part (10) rotated by 180° about the longitudinal direction (L) by joining them transversely to the longitudinal direction (L) to form a side tab (2), in particular by force-locking and / or form-locking connection.

5. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, in particular according to claim 4, characterized in that the tab parts (10) have cooperating connecting elements (14, 16; 17, 18; 23, 24) on an inner joining side (11) which are arranged conjugately corresponding with respect to a transverse median plane extending in the longitudinal (L) and transverse (A) direction, such that a connecting element (14; 17; 23) of one tab part cooperates with the corresponding connecting element (16; 18; 24) of the other tab part (10) when connecting.

6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, in particular according to claim 5, characterized in that the two tab parts (10) can be locked together for the purpose of connecting to a side tab (2).

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, in particular according to claim 6, characterized in that the corresponding connecting elements comprise at least one male snap-in connecting element (14) and one female snap-in connecting element (16) and / or at least one pair of male and female positive locking connectors (17, 18; 23, 24), in particular of plug pin and plug receptacle.

8. Energy supply chain or chain link according to claim 7, characterized in that the corresponding connecting elements have a snap hook (14) and a include corresponding connector receptacle (16).

9. Energy chain or chain link according to claim 8, characterized in that the connector receptacle (16) is dimensioned to receive a separate locking element (30) which, when inserted in the transverse direction, secures the snap hook (14) against loosening.

10. Energy supply chain or chain link according to claim 9, characterized in that the locking element (30) engages in a locking area (41) of the crossbar (4) and secures this crossbar (4) to the side tab (2).

11. Energy chain or chain link according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each link part (10) has a first overlap area (10A) comprising a pivot pin (20) and a second overlap area (10B) comprising a corresponding joint receptacle (22), wherein the overlap areas (10A, 10B) of adjacent side links (2) are pivotally connectable to each other in the longitudinal direction (L) by connecting the two pivot pins (20) in the first overlap area with the joint receptacles (22) in the second overlap area of ​​an adjacent side link (2) to form a pivot joint.

12. Energy chain or chain link according to claim 11, characterized in that each pivot pin (20) has a longitudinally extending recess (27) as a passage for the pull rope (5), wherein the recess is preferably widened symmetrically at the end in the longitudinal direction, in particular widened in a curved shape (28).

13. Energy chain or chain link according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each tab part (10) has a centrally arranged and longitudinally extending passage groove (25) as a passage for the pull rope, preferably on one side adjacent to the through groove (25) is a longitudinal projection (26) which projects laterally and extends in the longitudinal direction (L).

14. Energy supply chain or chain link according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side tabs (2) each form a fork tab shape from two tab parts (10).

15. Energy supply chain (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a wire rope extending over the longitudinal direction is provided as a pull rope (5) in each link strand and / or the energy supply chain can be wound onto and off a drum.

16. Energy supply chain (1) for guiding lines, such as hoses, cables or the like. , with chain links (6) , each comprising two opposing side plates (2) , in particular made of plastic, which are connected to each other via at least one transverse web (4), wherein the energy chain has two link strands (2A, 2B) each with side plates articulated to each other in the longitudinal direction, characterized in that at least one side plate (2) , preferably both side plates , has a transverse web retaining pocket (40) open on the inside (7) for fastening the transverse web (4), into which an end of the transverse web (4) can be inserted in the transverse direction (A) and which is fully enclosed by the side plate (2), and that the at least one side plate (2) , preferably both side plates , has a locking opening (42) open on the outside (8) facing away from the inside (7),which opens into the crossbar retaining pocket (40), so that a locking element (30), which is inserted in the transverse direction (A) from the outside through the locking opening (42), engages in a locking area (41) of the crossbar (4) in order to secure this crossbar (4) in the crossbar retaining pocket (40) at the side tab (2).

17. Chain link (6) for an energy chain, which has two link strands (2A, 2B) each with side links (2) articulated to each other longitudinally, wherein the chain link (6) comprises two opposing side links (2), in particular made of plastic, which are connected to each other via at least one transverse web (4), characterized in that at least one side link (2), preferably both side links, has a transverse web retaining pocket (40) open on the inside (7) for fastening the transverse web (4), into which an end of the transverse web (4) can be inserted in the transverse direction (A) and which is fully enclosed by the side link (2), and that the at least one side link (2), preferably both side links, has a locking opening (42) open on the outside (8) facing away from the inside (7), which opens into the transverse web retaining pocket (40), so that a Locking element (30) ,which is inserted in the transverse direction (A) from the outside through the locking opening (42), engages in a locking area (41) of the crossbar (4) in order to secure this crossbar (4) in the crossbar retaining pocket (40) on the side flap (2).

18. Energy supply chain according to claim 16 or chain link according to claim 17, characterized in that the side flap (2) on the inside (7) which faces the receiving space for cables in the chain link is designed without projections, in particular without retaining projections for the cross web(s).

19. Device according to claim 16, 17 or 18, characterized in that a preferably identical transverse web retaining pocket (40) is provided on each of the two longitudinally extending narrow sides (9) of the side flap (2) and / or each transverse web retaining pocket (40) is circumferentially surrounded by the body of the side flap (2) and closed on the narrow side (9).

20. Device according to one of claims 16 to 19, wherein characterized in that each crossbar retaining pocket (40) is designed as a positively locking receptacle holding in every direction of the tab plane (LH) for the positive locking receptacle holding a longitudinal end of a crossbar (4) .

21. Device according to one of claims 16 to 20, characterized in that the transverse web retaining pocket (40) is designed as a recess in the transverse direction (A) in the body of the side flap (2) and preferably has a maximum depth of less than 50% of the width of the side flap (2).

22. Device according to one of claims 16 to 21, comprising a locking element (30) which has a stop area (33) at a first longitudinal end (31) and a locking lug (34) at the opposite second longitudinal end (32) which can be locked with the transverse web (4).

23. Device according to claim 22, comprising a stop recess (43) on the outside (8) of the side flap (2) into which the stop area (33) of the locking element (30) can be inserted in a form-fitting manner and flush with the outside (8) of the side flap (2).

24. Device according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the locking element (30) has an actuating recess (35) at the second longitudinal end (32) which is aligned with an actuating opening (44) of a locked crossbar (4) in order to be able to unlock the locking element (30) by means of a tool.

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