Tension spring for holding a track body element.

Description

1 / 28 Tension spring for holding a track body element.

[001] The invention relates to a tension spring for holding a track body element, such as a rail foot of a rail.

[002] In addition, the invention relates to a rail fastening device comprising a tension spring according to the invention and a fastening device that can be attached to a base, in particular to a sleeper, ribbed plate or angle guide plate, adjacent to a rail.

[003] The rails of a rail body are generally assembled using a spring element, usually called a tension spring or tension clamp, and a suitable tension element or fastening device to tension the spring element. This tension element or fastening device is usually a bolt by means of which the spring element is fixed against the base in such a way that it applies the necessary clamping forces through its section supported on the rail foot. The tension can be obtained, for example, by connecting the fastening device directly to the base supporting the rail and the fastening system, or by fixing the fastening device to an additional component, such as a plate, which is then firmly coupled to the base in question.

[004] Widely used tension springs are those with the e shape and those with the ω shape. A tension spring with the e shape is described, for example, in document EP 313325 B1.The ω format can be found, for example, in document DE 3243895 A1.

[005] Numerous types of tension spring fastening systems are known, in which the tension spring can be moved not only to a precisely defined final mounting position relative to the rail foot and anchoring parts, but also to a positionally secure pre-mounting position. To achieve the PÊti1,iífã(8872600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 20265f>pgg114 / 204 2 / 28 In the pre-assembly position, the tension spring is mounted in such a way that the section intended to hold the rail foot does not rest on the rail. In this way, railway sleepers can already be supplied from the factory with tension springs arranged in the pre-assembly position and pre-tensioned, whereby the tension springs can be moved to the final assembly position and tensioned on the construction site after the rail has been laid with a certain amount of lateral displacement force, so that the section intended to hold the rail foot fits over it and presses it down resiliently from above.

[006] A disadvantage of prior art tension springs is that they are designed for only one installation direction or type of installation. The installation direction is understood as the direction in which the tension spring, which is usually already pre-tensioned, is pushed towards the foot of the rail. Most often, tension springs are designed for transverse installation, i.e., for sliding the tension spring transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail. In longitudinal installation, on the other hand, the tension spring is brought to its final mounting position in the longitudinal direction of the rail. Due to the limited space available, installation in the longitudinal direction of the rails is advantageous, for example, for fixing rails in the area of ​​switches.Conventional tension springs are adapted to their specified installation direction, particularly with regard to the arrangement of areas of different stiffness, and therefore cannot be installed in a direction that deviates from this without further ado, and a deviating installation direction is not even possible in most cases for purely geometric reasons.

[007] Other problems with conventional tension springs are the occurrence of fractures and loosening of the tension springs and the associated loss of holding force. Loosening occurs in particular with PPtJtjÇã(880260( / 0262Q5dd<027)4 / 20265ppgg.1 11 / 704 3 / 28 tension springs that are secured with a screw.

[008] Fractures frequently occur in tension springs when they are subjected to excessive stress. Conventional rail fastening systems are, in very few cases, equipped with overload protection. The purpose of overload protection is to limit the load acting on the tension spring, which is particularly effective if the rail is subject to strong up and down movement or strong tilting movement relative to the sleeper when it is passed over it.

[009] The present invention, therefore, aims to improve a tension spring and a corresponding fastening system insofar as the aforementioned disadvantages can be overcome. In particular, the objective is to create a tension spring that can be held pressed or tensioned by means of a screw and without a screw, and that has high elasticity. The tension spring should be universally usable, especially for holding rails in the free track as well as in the switch area. Finally, installation and removal should be facilitated and a secure pre-assembly position should be possible.

[0010] To solve this problem, the invention provides, according to a first aspect, a tension spring comprising a U-shaped main section having a U-curve, a first leg disposed on one side of the U-curve and a second leg disposed on the other side of the U-curve, wherein an inwardly bent hook-shaped fastening section that can be supported against a fastening device is formed in the first leg and an end section bent towards or away from the fastening section is formed in the second leg, the U-curve forming a torsion section so that a fastening force can be applied to the track body element through the bent end section. PÊti1,iífã(8872600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 20265f>pgg116 / 204 4 / 28

[0011] The fact that the tension spring, starting from the basic U-shape, has a hook-shaped fastening section on the first leg of the U-shape and an end section bent towards or away from the fastening section on the other leg of the U-shape, results in an asymmetrical shape that is easy to manufacture and allows installation in both transverse and longitudinal directions. In both longitudinal and transverse installation, the bent end section forms the portion of the tension spring through which the fastening force is applied to the track body element or rail foot.

[0012] The tension spring design according to the invention is similar to the known shape and form of the prior art, with the difference that the end section of the shape and form has an additional curvature. This curvature can be towards or away from the tension spring's fixing section. Preferably, the curvature runs towards the tension spring's fixing section. According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided herein that the bent end section extends at an angle of 80-100°, preferably approximately 90°, to the second leg, this applying both to the design with a bent end section towards the tension spring's fixing section and to the design with a bent end section away from the fixing section. The advantages of the bent end section become apparent in both longitudinal and transverse installation in conjunction with the retaining device, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0013] In some embodiments of the invention, the U-shape formed by the U-curve, the first leg, and the second leg also includes configurations in which the first leg is reduced to a minimum, so that the U-curve merges, so to speak, directly into the fastening section. However, in other embodiments, the first leg has a certain length, such as a substantially longer length. PÊti1,iífã(8872600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 20265f>pgg117 / 204 5 / 28 corresponds to the second leg, and it is particularly straight.

[0014] The hook-shaped fastening section extending from the first leg of the U-shape is used to be held under tension by a retaining device when a torsional force is applied from the bent end section to the torsional section formed by the U-bend of the tension spring. In this case, the hook-shaped fastening section is bent inwards, which should be understood as the hook being bent between the two legs of the U-shape. Preferably, the hook-shaped fastening section on the side of the first leg forms the end of the tension spring, i.e., the free end of the section bent into a hook lies between the two legs of the U-shape.

[0015] In this regard, a preferred embodiment provides that the fastening section includes a free-end portion connected to the first leg by a hook bend and disposed between the first leg and the second leg.

[0016] According to a preferred additional embodiment of the invention, a hook curve of the fastening section has a curvature of substantially 180° such that a free-end portion of the fastening section is substantially parallel to the first leg, at least in sections. The expression substantially 180° means that the angle is 180°, but it can also be between 175° and 185°.

[0017] The clamping force is provided at least in part by a torsional load on the torsional section formed by the U-bend of the tension spring, with a corresponding resilient deflection of the second leg extending from the U-bend to the bent end section. While the second leg forms a flexed spring arm, the remaining part of the tension spring, on the other hand, can be as flat as possible to minimize the overall height of the tension spring and the material consumption for the tension spring. PPtJtjÇã(880260(00262Q5dd<027)420265ppgg.1 14 / 204 6 / 28

[0018] In this context, a preferred design provides that the first leg and the free end portion of the fastening section provide a flat bearing surface in the unloaded state. The flat bearing surface can serve, for example, as a support for the retaining device, wherein the planar state refers to the unloaded state of the tension spring, since a slight twist of the fastening section may occur during tensioning of the tension spring.

[0019] In the unloaded state, the first leg and the free end portion of the fastening section may have their respective central axes, preferably along their entire length, in a central plane that is preferably parallel to the planar support surface. For example, in the case of a circular cross-section, the centerline of the corresponding sections is the centerline or axis that passes through the center of the circle.

[0020] However, it may also be provided that the first leg and the fastening section lie in the same plane in the unloaded state or have their respective central axes in the central plane. This also provides a flat bearing surface and prevents parts of the first leg and fastening section, including the hook bend, from being bent out of said plane.

[0021] The design of the tension spring's U-curve can also contribute to achieving the flattest possible construction, such that, preferably, the free end portion of the fastening section, viewed in the direction of a longitudinal extension of the free end portion, covers the U-curve at least partially, preferably completely.

[0022] However, to ensure proper spring deflection, the bent end section of the tension spring may be deflected out of plane when unloaded. In this context, a preferred design provides that the bent end section is at a distance PÊtiÇãã(88(72600026205ddl02 / 04 / 20265ppag1 15 / 204 7 / 28 normal of the central plane or planar support surface in the unloaded state.

[0023] If the entire fastening section, including the hook bend and the first leg, is in the same plane, this means that, with respect to the overall height of the tension spring, the hook bend and the bent end section in the unloaded state define the maximum overall height of the tension spring measured normal to the central plane or the planar support surface. This allows for an extremely flat design of the tension spring.

[0024] In particular, the total height of the tension spring in the unloaded state can correspond to 1.5 to 3 times the diameter of the wire that forms the tension spring in the fixing section.

[0025] Preferably, an imaginary extension of the bent end section overlaps the hook curve in a plan view. This means that the imaginary extension of the bent end section overlaps at least partially the hook curve in the top view of the tension spring. For transverse installation of the tension spring, this means that the hook curve sits above the rail foot in the final mounting position and can form an overload protection.

[0026] In the conventional manner, the tension spring consists of a spring rod and can therefore be manufactured in one piece from a corresponding initial product. This is produced by bending an originally straight spring rod several times. If, as is preferably provided, the hook-shaped fastening section, the U-bend, and the bent end section are all bent in the same direction, the tension spring can be produced in three bending steps. In the first step, the hook-shaped fastening section is bent, in the second step the U-bend is bent, and in the third step the bent end section is bent. The three bending steps can also PÊti1,iífã(88(72600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 20265f>pgg1 20 / 204 8 / 28 can be performed circumferentially in one operation if all three folds are performed in the same direction of rotation. The above folds can be made in the same plane, or the deflection of individual portions of the common plane can be done simultaneously with the folds.

[0027] The cross-section of the tension spring is preferably circular, although other cross-sectional shapes are also conceivable, such as oval, elliptical or similar.

[0028] Due to the relatively simple geometry of the tension spring according to the invention, its mechanical properties can be adapted to the respective requirements in a simple manner by varying certain geometric parameters while maintaining the basic shape. For example, the length of the second leg of the U-shape, and therefore the length of the lever arm acting on the torsion section, determines the stiffness of the tension spring. By choosing the thickness of the spring rod, the tension, clamping force, and stiffness can be controlled. The radius of the U-curve also controls the tension and stiffness of the tension spring.

[0029] In order to exert a clamping force on the rail foot by means of the bent end section, keeping the clamping section pressed by means of the retaining device and the resulting torsional load of the tension spring torsional section, it is preferably provided that the second leg in the unloaded state has a normal distance from the central plane or the flat support surface that increases continuously in the direction of the bent end section.

[0030] In particular, this means that the second leg in the unloaded state is inclined at an acute angle relative to the central plane or the planar support surface. The acute angle can be between 5° and 20°. The tightening of the tension spring leads to a bending of the tension spring such that the aforementioned acute angle is reduced from the unloaded state and is, for example, only 0°-5° in the unloaded state. PPtJtjírçi(880260(00262Q5dd<027)4 / 20265ppgg.127 / 204 9 / 28 tightened. This angle can be reduced to 5-10° in the case of fastening systems with lower clamping force. In this tensioned state, a torsional moment acts on the torsion section of the tension spring, in particular around an axis normal to the axis of the first leg and forming a tangent to the U-curve.

[0031] The clamping force acting on the rail foot from the bent end section and the corresponding counterforce acting on the clamping section of the tension spring of the retaining device form a pair of forces that additionally also tension the torsion section to bend around an axis perpendicular to the axis of the torsional moment, resulting in a corresponding bending around this axis. Due to this bending, the bent end section of the tension spring has a different angle relative to the support plane at the rail foot in the unloaded state than in the loaded state.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, in order for the bent end section to be oriented substantially horizontally when loaded to provide a corresponding bearing surface at the foot of the rail, the bent end section is provided with a bearing surface for support on the track body element which, when unloaded, extends upwards at an acute angle relative to the central plane or planar bearing surface. The angle between the bent end section and said plane may preferably be 2°-8°, in particular 5°-7°. The angle decreases under load due to the bending moment mentioned above and is preferably 0°-1° in the loaded state.

[0032] When the invention refers to an angle between two sections of the tension spring or to a plane in which the sections meet, this refers to the centerline of the corresponding sections, that is, in the case of a circular cross-section, to the centerline or axis passing through the center of the circle. PPtJtjÇã(880260(00262Q5dd<027)4 / 20265ppgg.128 / 204 10 / 28

[0033] The tension spring according to the invention is designed to be usable with various types of fastening devices.

[0034] In a first installation variant, the tension spring fastening section can be inserted transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail into a tunnel-shaped recess of the retaining device towards the rail, so that the hook curve preferably engages over the rail foot in a final mounting position of the tension spring.

[0035] In a second installation variant, the tension spring fixing section can be inserted parallel to the longitudinal direction of the rail in a tunnel-shaped recess of the retaining device, so that the second leg preferably overlaps the rail foot.

[0036] In terms of design, the first and second installation variants may preferably be carried out in such a way that a gap is provided between the bent end section and the free end portion of the fastening section on the side of the free end portion facing the second leg, as seen in a longitudinal extension of the free end portion and in a plan view, i.e., in a normal projection on the central plane or on the flat support surface.

[0037] In a further installation variant, a free space may be provided between the first leg and the free end portion of the fastening section, this free space being able to be penetrated by a screw rod of a fastening screw forming the retaining device and in which free space the fastening screw may be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the first leg, the screw rod of the fastening screw having a diameter that is greater than the diameter of a wire forming the tension spring in the fastening section, and preferably the inner radius of the hook curve being greater than or PÊti1,iífã(8872600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 20265f>pgg129 / 204 11 / 28 equal to the radius of the screw shaft. The aforementioned displacement capacity allows the tension spring to be moved from a pre-assembly position to a final assembly position and back when held in place by the fastening screw. If the inner radius of the hook curve is greater than or equal to the radius of the screw shaft, a maximum displacement is provided.

[0038] Overall, the invention provides a compact, low-profile tension spring that can be used flexibly and can also be manufactured economically due to low material requirements. Preferably, it is provided here that the tension spring, in a plan view, in particular in a normal projection on the central plane or on the flat support surface, lies within a minimally enveloping rectangle that has an aspect ratio of 1:1.5-1:1, preferably 1:1.1-1:1.

[0039] According to another preferred embodiment, the diameter of the wire forming the tension spring is at least 1 / 7, preferably at least 1 / 6, of the shorter side of a rectangle that minimally encircles the tension spring in a plan view.

[0040] In particular, the section of the bent end is located within a square corner area of ​​a rectangle that minimally encircles the tension spring in a plan view, which has at most 1 / 9 of the area of ​​the surrounding rectangle.

[0041] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a rail fastening device comprising a tension spring according to the first aspect of the invention and a fastening device that can be fixed adjacent to a rail on a base, in particular a sleeper, ribbed plate or angle guide plate, and in which the fastening section is supported in the assembled state of the tension spring in such a way that the section of the bent end can be arranged to fasten an element of the track body, in particular a rail foot of the PÊti1,iífã(8872600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 2'0265f>pgg124 / 204 12 / 28 track.

[0042] In this case, it is preferred that the fastening device not only engage over the free end portion of the fastening section when the tension spring is mounted, but also at least partially over the first leg.

[0043] As already explained in connection with the first aspect of the invention, the tension spring can be fixed without a screw or by means of a screw. For carrying out the screwless alternative, a preferred design provides that the fastening device has or forms a tunnel-shaped recess into which the fastening section of the tension spring can be at least partially inserted.

[0044] Depending on whether the tension spring is to be installed transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail or in the longitudinal direction of the rail, the tension spring's fixing section can be inserted into the tunnel-shaped recess transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail or parallel to the longitudinal direction of the rail.

[0045] In a design with a tension spring that can be inserted transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail, the tunnel-shaped recess is preferably open on the side facing the track body element, in particular the rail foot, and the hook curve projects from the tunnel-shaped recess in the final assembled state of the tension spring and engages with the track body element, in particular the rail foot. In this way, the hook curve forms an overload protection in its state projecting beyond the track body element. For this purpose, the hook curve is arranged in such a way that there is a vertical distance between the track body element to be held down, in particular the rail foot, and the hook curve of the tension spring. The upward movements of the track body element that are within the vertical distance are resiliently absorbed by the bent end section of the PPtJtjÇã(880260( / 0262Q5dd<027)4 / 20265ppgg.1 21 / 704 13 / 28 tension spring. However, if excessive upward movement occurs, the element of the track body to be held down will touch the hook curve and thus be prevented from rising further without overloading the tension spring within its permitted travel.

[0046] In the variant with a tension spring that can be inserted transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail, a pre-assembly position of the tension spring can be easily achieved by initially inserting the tension spring only to the extent that it is securely received in the tunnel-shaped recess, but the hook curve does not yet project from the tunnel-shaped recess on the side facing the track body element to be held down, and the bent end section is not yet at rest on the track body element. Only to assume the final assembly position is the tension spring further actuated in the direction of the track body element until the bent end section presses against the track body element from above.

[0047] In both the variant with a tension spring that can be inserted transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail and the variant with a tension spring that can be inserted in the longitudinal direction of the rail, it is preferable that the fastening device have a ramp that rises in the direction of insertion and on which the section of the bent end slides during insertion. This causes the section of the bent end to become increasingly preloaded during insertion.

[0048] Particularly preferably, the ramp has a first ascending ramp portion and a second ascending ramp portion and an intermediate portion between them in which the bent end section rests in a pre-assembly position of the tension spring. For example, the intermediate portion may have a recess in which the bent end section of the tension spring may PÊti1,iífã(8872600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 2'0265f>pgg126 / 204 14 / 28 engage to remain in the pre-assembly position.

[0049] In this context, a preferred further development provides that a step is formed at the end of the ramp, through which the bent end section reaches the final mounting position, in which the end section rests on the track body element, in particular the rail foot, the step forming a rear stop that protects the end section against coming out of the final mounting position.

[0050] In the variant with a tension spring that can be pushed in the longitudinal direction of the rail, overload protection can be achieved by the fastening device having a stop that overlaps the section of the bent end at a distance when the tension spring is mounted. Such a stop has the effect of limiting the lifting of the section of the bent end.

[0051] The fastening system, according to the invention, can also be used in the area of ​​a switch to fasten stock rails, whereby the fastening device on the side of the stock rail facing the tongue rail can be combined or connected with a sliding chair, preferably in such a way that the fastening device forms at least part of the sliding surface for the tongue rail. In this context, a preferred embodiment provides that the fastening system comprises a sliding chair associated with the stock rail and having a sliding surface for a tongue rail, the fastening device having an additional sliding surface preferably flush with the sliding surface. Alternatively, the upper surface of the fastening device can also be disposed lower than the sliding surface of the sliding chair.

[0052] Preferably, the additional sliding surface is extended in the same way as the sliding chair itself in the direction of the stock rail, such that the additional sliding surface overlaps the foot of the stock rail to a PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®42 / 0265f>pgg1 23 / 704 15 / 28 distance.

[0053] Preferably, the fastening device associated with the sliding chair and the fastening device located on the opposite side of the stock rail can be integrally formed with a sliding chair plate.

[0054] As already mentioned, an advantage of the tension spring according to the invention is its universal applicability. Thus, as already mentioned, the tension spring can be fixed not only without screws, but also with a sleeper screw. In this context, the fastening system according to the invention is preferably designed in such a way that the fastening device is formed by a fastening screw that can be screwed into the base, in particular a sleeper or plate, or by a hook screw with nut that is suspended from the base, in particular a ribbed plate, whose screw shank and / or thread passes through a free space between the first leg and the free end portion of the tension spring fastening section to hold the tension spring in the region of the fastening section and, if appropriate, the first leg.

[0055] A pre-assembly position is also easily possible with this type of fastening. This can be done in such a way that the tension spring is first screwed into the pre-assembly position. The rail is then inserted, after which the tension spring is moved to the final assembly position in the screwed-in state. For this purpose, it is no longer necessary to loosen the screw after inserting the rail and tighten it to the final tightening torque after pushing the tension spring into the final assembly position, because the tension spring, even with a screw tightened to the final tightening torque in the pre-assembly position, can be easily moved from the pre-assembly position to the final assembly position with a hand or mechanical tool. PÊtiÇãã(88(72600026205ddl02®42 / 0265pj®g128 / 204 16 / 28

[0056] To ensure that the tension spring remains movable between the pre-assembly position and the final assembly position in the screwed-on state, a preferred embodiment of the invention provides that a stop limiting the screwing depth of the fastening device and, preferably, cooperating with the screw head or the screw nut is disposed on the base and / or on the fastening device, so that a clamping force on the tension spring can be limited. The stop therefore serves to define the screwed-on state of the tension spring or the tightened state of the screw in such a way that the tension spring remains movable between the pre-assembly and final assembly positions.Preferably, the stop defines a minimum vertical distance between the fastening device and the base that is equal to or greater than the unloaded diameter of the wire that forms the tension spring in the region of the fastening device, the vertical distance preferably being no more than 1.2 times the diameter of the wire.

[0057] A deviation from the final tightening torque or the screw clamping force obtained with the final tightening torque no longer has any negative effect on the desired tension state of the tension spring, once it has been tensioned against the stop. This means that in the final mounting position, there is no need to check the distances between the tension spring and the rail foot, as is necessary, for example, with some common fastening systems with tension springs.

[0058] The stop can also preferentially compensate for a predominantly one-sided load on the bolt, as the stop provides the bolt with at least one point of contact through which, when the bolt or nut is tightened to the final tightening torque, a force acts on the bolt that at least partially compensates for the one-sided load on the bolt.

[0059] Different variants are possible for displacing the spring from PÊti1,iífã(8872600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 2'0265f>pgg125 / 204 17 / 28 tension from the pre-assembly to the final assembly position. In particular, the tension spring with its bent end section can be rotated or displaced transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail between the pre-assembly position and the final assembly position when the fastening device is tightened, i.e., in particular in the tension state defined by the stop described above.

[0060] Preferably, the base is designed in the area of ​​the contact surface swept by the tension spring during displacement in such a way that when the tension spring is displaced on the base from the pre-assembly position to the final assembly position along the displacement path, there are no increases or only gradual increases in the tension spring pre-tension, so that when the tension spring is displaced, harmful stress, especially due to shear, is discarded for all components subjected to stress in the process. For this purpose, a possible design of a base on the contact surfaces swept by the tension spring on the base during displacement is free of grooves and indentations transverse to the direction of displacement of the tension clamp.

[0061] To prevent the automatic or unintentional displacement of the tension spring from the final mounting position to the pre-mounting position, it is preferably provided that the base forms a step that slopes in the direction of displacement of the tension spring and from which the section of the bent end descends to the foot of the rail when the tension spring is displaced from the pre-mounting position to the final mounting position. The step thus forms a rear stop for the section of the bent end, preventing it from leaving the final mounting position.

[0062] In the pre-assembly position, the tension spring is advantageously arranged in the base in such a way that the insertion of a rail between pre-assembled tension springs is not hindered. This means that PÊti1,iífã(88(72600026205ddí)2 / 04 / 20265f>pgg1 30 / 204 18 / 28 sleepers can be fitted with pre-assembled tension springs before the rails are laid, so that after the rails have been laid, the tension springs only need to be moved to the final mounting position using a suitable tool. This is preferably achieved by the base having a lateral contact surface for the rail foot and the fastening device or fastening screw being arranged in such a way that the tension spring does not project beyond the contact surface in the pre-assembly position.

[0063] In particular, the distance between the screw shaft and the lateral contact surface may be equal to or greater than the diameter of the wire that forms the tension spring.

[0064] For safety reasons, it must be ensured that there is no unintentional loosening of the fastening screw when moving the tension spring from the pre-assembly position to the final assembly position. For this purpose, the circumstance can be exploited that the asymmetrical tension spring according to the invention is tensioned in the tensioned state towards the head of the screw or nut predominantly on one side of the screw, while on the other side of the screw it is supported on the base.

[0065] If the direction of rotation of the screw thread and the installation position or asymmetry of the tension spring are matched, a displacement of the tension spring from the pre-assembly position to the final assembly position results in the screw being loaded in the direction the screw is being tightened. In other words, it is provided that the fastening screw or hook screw nut predominantly grips the free-end portion of the tension spring fastening section and the first leg of the tension spring is supported on the base and that the tightening rotation direction of the fastening screw thread or hook screw is designed such that the free-end portion of the fastening section applies directly or PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f>pgg137 / 204 19 / 28 indirectly a torque in the direction of rotation of tightening to the fixing screw or to the hook screw nut when the tension spring is displaced transversely relative to the longitudinal direction of the rail from the pre-assembly position to the final assembly position.

[0066] For a fastening system with a tension spring that can be rotated between a pre-assembly position and a final assembly position, it is provided that the rotation from the pre-assembly position to the final assembly position occurs in the tightening rotation direction of the fastening screw or hook screw nut, so that the latter is subjected indirectly or directly to a torque in the fixed rotation direction.

[0067] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to schematic examples of embodiments shown in the drawing. In it, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a tension spring according to the invention, Figure 2 a top view of the tension spring according to Figure 1, Figure 3 a view according to arrow III of Figure 2, Figure 4 a view according to arrow IV of Figure 2, Figure 5 a first design of a rail fastening device using the tension spring according to Figure 1, Figure 6 a detailed view of Figure 5, Figure 7 a second design of a rail fastening device using the tension spring according to Figure 1, Figure 8 a detailed view of Figure 7, Figure 9 a fastening device according to Figures 7 and 8 in a perspective view, Figure 10 a side view of the fastening device according to Figure 9,Figure 11 shows a third design of a rail fastening device using a tension spring according to Figure 1, Figure 12 shows a modified design of the rail fastening device from Figure 11, Figure 13 shows a fourth design of a rail fastening device using a tension spring according to Figure 1, Figure 14 shows a design according to Figure 12 with a guide plate, PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265ppgg138 / 204 20 / 28 modified angle, Figure 15 a view of the angle guide plate according to Figure 14, Figure 16 a front view of the angle guide plate according to Figure 14, Figure 17 a bottom view of the angle guide plate according to Figure 14 in an exploded view, Figure 19 the rail fastener according to Figure 12 in a final assembly position, Figure 18 the rail fastening device according to Figure 12 in a pre-assembly position, Figure 21 a cross-sectional view of the rail fastening device according to Figure 19, Figure 20 a cross-sectional view of the rail fastening device according to Figure 18, Figure 22 an alternative design of the rail fastener in a pre-assembly position, Figure 23 the rail fastening device according to Figure 22 in a final assembly position, Figure 24 a cross-sectional view of the rail fastening device according to Figure 22,Figure 25 shows a cross-sectional view of the rail fastening device according to Figure 23. Figure 26 shows a perspective view of the angle guide plate used in the rail fastening device according to Figures 22-25. Figure 27 shows another cross-sectional view of the rail fastening device according to Figure 19.

[0068] Figure 1 shows the tension spring 1, according to the invention, comprising a main U-shaped section having a U-shaped curve 2, a first leg 3 disposed on one side of the U-shaped curve 2 and a second leg 4 disposed on the other side of the U-shaped curve 2, a fastening section 5 that is bent inwards in the form of a hook and can be supported against a retaining device being formed on the first leg 3, and an end section 6 that is bent towards or away from the fastening section 5 being formed on the second leg 4. The bent end section 6 forms a fastening section for holding the rail foot of a rail. The fastening section 5 includes a free end portion 7. PetíÇífã(8872600026205ddí)2 / 042 / 0265f>pgg139 / 204 21 / 28

[0069] In Figure 2, it can be seen that a gap x is disposed between the bent end section 6 and the free end portion 7 of the fastening section 5, as seen in a plan view, on the side of the free end portion 7 facing the second leg 4. The gap allows the tension spring fastening section 1 to be inserted, hook curve first, into a tunnel-shaped recess in the retaining device (see Figure 5-8).

[0070] In Figures 3 and 4, it can be seen that the first leg 3 and the fixing section 5, including the free-end portion 7, lie in the same plane so that they form a flat support surface a. As the tension spring 1 is bent from a wire with a circular cross-section, this also means that the central axis of said sections lies in a common central plane b. In the unloaded state, it is further provided that the free-end portion 7 of the fixing section 5 completely covers the U-curve 2, as seen in the direction of a longitudinal extension of the free-end portion 7 (Figure 3). In other words, starting from the first leg 3, the U-curve also lies in the same plane as the first leg 3 and the fixing section 5, including the free-end portion 7, at least up to said overlap with the free-end portion 7.

[0071] However, in the subsequent course of the U-curve 2, that is, in the direction of the second leg 4, the U-curve 2 is bent downwards, out of plane a or b, so that the normal distance of the second leg 4 from plane a or b increases up to the bent end section 6. In Figure 4, it can be seen that the second leg 4 with its central axis c involves an acute angle p with plane a or b of the fixing section 5 and the first leg 3.

[0072] Figure 3 also shows that the bent end section 6 has a bearing surface d for support on the track body element, which in the unloaded state is slightly inclined. PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f>pgg134 / 204 22 / 28 upwards, as seen in the direction of arrow III, so that there is an acute angle a between the bent end section 6 or the bearing surface of plane a or b of the fastening section 5 and the first leg 3.

[0073] Figure 5 shows a rail 8 fixed to a sleeper 11 with the interposition of a plate 10 arranged in a base plate 9. The fastening is made on each side of the rail 8 by means of a tension spring 1, as shown in Figure 1, which is inserted into a tunnel-shaped recess 13 of a fastening device 12. In the final mounting position of the tension spring 1 shown in Figure 5, the spring presses with its bent end section 6 on the rail foot 16 of the rail 8, with the optional interposition of an insulator. The fastening device 12 is properly attached to the plate 10. For example, the plate 10 and the fastening device 12 are made in one piece and are screwed to the sleeper 11.Alternatively, an anchor can be formed on the underside of plate 10, which is embedded in sleeper 11 when it is cast in concrete.

[0074] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the tension spring 1 inserted into the tunnel-shaped recess 13. It can be seen that the tension spring has been inserted into the tunnel-shaped recess 13 with its fixing section 5 in the direction of arrow 14, i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the rail, so that the bent end section 6 rests on the rail foot 16. When inserted in the direction of arrow 14, the bent end section 6 slides on a ramp 17 rising in the direction of insertion 14 until it falls onto a step formed at the end of the ramp 17 on the rail foot 16. On the side of the retaining device 12 facing the rail foot 16, a stop 18 is also formed which overlaps the bent end section 6 at a distance and acts together with the end section 6 as an overload protection device.

[0075] Figures 7 and 8 show an alternative design of PPtJtjã<ã(8802600326295dde)27)4 / 20265ppggJ 31 / 704 23 / 28 rail fastening device in which the tension spring 1 is inserted into the tunnel-shaped recess 13 (see Figure 9) of the fastening device 12 transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail, i.e., in the direction of arrow 14. As it is pushed in the direction of arrow 14, the bent end section 6 slides again along the ramp 17 formed on the outside of the fastening device 12 until the bent end section 6 falls onto the rail foot 16 on a step 19 formed at the end of the ramp 17. An insulator 15 may be disposed between the tension spring 1 and the rail foot. In the final mounting position shown in Figure 8, the fastening section 5 emerges from the tunnel-shaped recess 13 on the rail-facing side 8 and forms a stop overlapping the rail foot 16 with optional insulator 15 at a distance, which forms an overload protection.

[0076] The fastening device 12 used in Figures 7 and 8 is shown in more detail in Figures 9 and 10, where it can be seen in particular that the ramp 17 consists of three sections that follow one another in the insertion direction 14. The ramp 17 comprises a first ascending ramp portion 20 and a second ascending ramp portion 22 and an intermediate portion 21 without slope between them, in which the bent end section 6 of the tension spring 1 rests in a pre-assembly position. Furthermore, Figures 9 and 10 show an anchor 31 with which the fastening device can be concreted or molded into a concrete sleeper 11 or, for example, a plastic sleeper 11.

[0077] Figure 11 shows a modified design in which the tension spring 1 is tensioned by a fastening device in the form of a fastening screw 25. The fastening screw 25 is hooked into the rib 24 like a hook screw or screwed into the sleeper 11 in such a way that its screw shaft or thread passes through a free space between the first leg 3 and the free-end portion 7 of the section. PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f>pgg1 32 / 704 24 / 28 of the tension spring 1 fastening section 5. The free space between the first leg 3 and the free end portion 7 of the fastening section 5 is slot-shaped in this case, so that the tension spring 1 can be moved between a pre-assembly position and the final assembly position shown in Figure 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the rail base 10 is in the form of a ribbed plate, whose ribs 24 define the position of the rail foot 16 of the rail 8 on the sleeper 11.

[0078] In the modified design shown in Figure 12, the fastening system comprises an angle guide plate 26 on each side of the rail 8, which engages in a groove 27 of the sleeper 11 with a rib formed on the underside.

[0079] Figure 13 shows the use of a rail clamping device according to the invention in the area of ​​a switch, which has a stock rail 8 and a tongue rail 28 that can be moved between a remote position and a contact position. In this case, the tongue rail 28 slides with its rail foot on a sliding chair 29, the clamping device 12 having on its upper side an additional sliding surface flush with the sliding surface of the sliding chair 29. The clamping devices 12 arranged on both sides of the stock rail 8 can be formed into one piece with a base plate 30.

[0080] The design according to Figure 14 essentially corresponds to the design according to Figure 12, but the angle guide plate 26 has a two-part design. As shown in Figures 15 and 17, the angle guide plate 26 comprises a first part 32 facing away from the rail and a second part 33 facing the rail. The first part 32 carries a rib 34 that engages the groove 27 when installed, the rib 34 preferably having a trapezoidal cross-section and having at least one guide surface 38. The first and second parts 32, 33 are movable relative to each other. PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f>pgg1 33 / 704 25 / 28 along the guide surfaces 38,39 (Figure 17) which are inclined relative to the longitudinal direction of the track, thus allowing adaptation to the respective track gauge. The second part 33 further comprises a plate-shaped support element 41 on which the tension spring 1 rests and which overlaps the upper surface of the first part 32. As can be seen in Figure 17, the plate-shaped support element 41 has at least one oblique guide groove 40 in its lower part, in which guide pins or similar (not shown) formed in the upper part of the first part 32 engage to hold the two parts 32,33 together, particularly in the unloaded state. Furthermore, it can be seen that the second part 33, in particular the plate-shaped support element 41, has a through hole 35 through which the screw 25 passes in the assembled state of the tension spring 1. The through hole 35 is formed as an oblong hole perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rail.For the lateral orientation of the tension spring 1, the second part 33, in particular the plate-shaped support element 41, has two walls 37 that run in the insertion direction 14 of the tension spring 1. The tension spring 1 is also guided by the elevation 36, which is arranged between the first leg 3 and the free end 7 of the fixing section 5 of the tension spring 1.

[0081] Tension spring 1 can be moved between the final mounting position shown in Figure 14 and a pre-mounting position not shown, in which tension spring 1 does not overlap the rail foot. The design is such that screw 25 does not need to be loosened to move tension spring 1 from the pre-mounting position to the final mounting position. The displacement can be carried out, for example, by means of a lever-type tool.

[0082] Figures 18 and 19 show the displacement capacity of tension spring 1 between the pre-assembly position (Figure 18) and the final assembly position (Figure 19) based on the design according to PPtJtjã<ã(8802600326295dde)27)4 / 20265ppggJ38 / 204 26 / 28 with Figure 12, where the reference signs of Figures 14-17 were also retained with respect to the corresponding components. Figures 20 and 21 show each cross-section of Figures 18 and 19, respectively, along lines XX and XXI, respectively.

[0083] In the cross-sectional view shown in Figures 20 and 21, it can be seen that the fastening screw 25 has a screw head 42 and a screw shank 43, with the screw head 42 securing the tension spring with the interposition of a washer 44. Here, the elevation 36 of the angle guide plate 26 forms a stop 45 with which the screw head 42 or the washer 44 interacts and which therefore limits the screwing depth of the fastening screw 25. The stop 45 is used here to define the screwed state of the tension spring 1 or the tightened state of the fastening screw 25 such that the tension spring 1 remains movable between the pre-assembly and final assembly positions. The stop 45 here defines a minimum vertical distance h between the washer 44 and the support surface of the angle guide plate 26, which is equal to or greater than the unloaded diameter of the wire that forms the tension spring in this area.

[0084] Figure 20 shows that the angle guide plate 26 has a lateral contact surface 46 for the rail foot 16 and the fixing screw 25 is arranged in such a way that the tension spring 1 does not project beyond the contact surface 46 in the pre-assembly position.

[0085] Furthermore, Figures 18 and 19 show a ramp 47 formed on the angle guide plate 26, which is arranged in such a way that the bent end section 6 of the tension spring 1 slides on it when it is moved from the pre-assembly position to the final assembly position. The ramp is level or ascending in the direction of the rail foot 16, the end of the ramp forming a step descending towards the rail foot over which the bent end section 6 descends over the rail foot 16 when the tension spring 1 is displaced from PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f>pgg1 39 / 704 27 / 28 pre-assembly position to the final assembly position (see Figure 27).

[0086] Figures 22 and 23 show an alternative design in which the tension spring 1 can be moved from the pre-assembly position (Figure 22) to the final assembly position (Figure 23) by rotating it around the screw axis. Figures 24 and 25 are seen in cross-section of Figures 22 and 23. For the rotation of the tension spring 1, a rotating intermediate piece 48 is provided as a stop 45, which is penetrated by the screw rod 43 and engages between the first leg 3 and the free-end portion 7 of the tension spring 1 and is pressed there against the angle guide plate 26 by the fixing screw 25, so that the intermediate piece 48 thus forms a rotating stop 45, which limits and transmits the screwing depth of the fixing screw 25 and its tension force to the tension spring 1, for which reason the intermediate piece 48 can also be understood as a component of a fastening device.

[0087] The rotating stop 45 serves in a manner comparable to the previously described movable design to define the screwed-in state of the tension spring 1 or the tightened state of the fastening screw 25 such that the tension spring 1 remains rotating between the pre-assembly position and the final assembly position. The intermediate piece 48 includes a portion overlapping the first leg 3 and the free-end portion 7, through which the tension spring is tightened when tightening the fastening screw 25. Here, the area of ​​the intermediate piece 48 overlapping the first leg 3 and the free-end portion 7 defines as a stop 45 a minimum vertical distance h between the contact surface of the tension spring on the angle guide plate 26 and its opposite contact surface of the intermediate piece 48, which is equal to or greater than the unloaded diameter of the wire forming the tension spring in this area. Furthermore, the intermediate piece 48 comprises an extension PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f>pgg140 / 204 28 / 28 which fits behind the end face of the free-end portion 7 of the tension spring 1 or fits into the free space between the free-end portion 7 and the U-bend 2. The extension 49 acts as a guard against horizontal displacement of the tension spring 1 and as an actuator to transmit the rotational motion applied by a tool to the intermediate part 48 or stop 45 to the tension spring 1.

[0088] The angle guide plate 26 of Figures 22 to 25 is shown in more detail in Figure 26, and it can be seen that an elevation 50 is formed on the side 46 facing the rail foot 16, which elevation has a contoured edge to provide a first retaining surface 53 for the pre-assembly position and a second retaining surface 54 for the final mounting position of a rotationally displaceable tension spring 1. Furthermore, the contact surface 46 forms a step 52 that extends from the upper edge of the contact surface 46 and descends to one rail foot. In order for the clamping force to be fully transmitted to the rail foot in the final mounting position, there must be the necessary vertical movement clearance between the second leg and the angle guide plate 26 for a tension spring 1. A recess 51 ensures that the upper edge of the contact surface 46 or step 52 is lowered at the appropriate point.

[0089] Figure 27 shows section SS through step 52 of. Figure 19. The step descends to the foot of the trail by a distance Y. PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f

Claims

1 / 5 CLAIMS 1. Tension spring (1) for holding a track body element, such as a rail foot, comprising a U-shaped main section having a U-curve (2), a first leg (3) disposed on one side of the U-curve (2) and a second leg (4) disposed on the other side of the U-curve (2), wherein a hook-shaped inward-bent fastening section (5) that can be supported against a retaining device is formed in the first leg (3) and an end section (6) bent towards or away from the fastening section (5) is formed in the second leg (4), wherein the U-curve (2) forms a twist section so that a fastening force can be applied to the track body element through the bent end section (6), characterized in that the retaining section (5) has a free end portion (7) connected to the first leg (3) by means of a hook bend and disposed between the first leg (3) and the second leg (4),wherein the free-end portion (7) of the fastening section (5), viewed in the direction of a longitudinal extension of the free-end portion (7), covers the U-curve at least partially, preferably completely.

2. Tension spring, according to claim 1, characterized in that the bent end section (6) extends at an angle of 80-100°, preferably about 90°, relative to the second leg (4).

3. Tension spring, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first leg (3) and the free end portion (7) of the fastening section (5) in the unloaded state provide a flat support surface.

4. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first leg (3) and the free end portion (7) of the fixing section (5) in the unloaded state have their respective central axes, preferably throughout their length, in a central plane that preferably runs parallel to the flat support surface.

5. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the hook curve of the fastening section (5) has a substantially 180° curvature such that the free end portion (7) of the fastening section (5), preferably in a projection normal to the flat support surface or the central plane, runs essentially parallel to the first leg (3) at least in sections.

6. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that an imaginary extension of the bent end section (6) overlaps the hook curve in a plan view.

7. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the bent end section (6) in the unloaded state has a distance normal to the central plane or to the flat support surface, wherein preferably the hook curve and the bent end section (6) define, in the unloaded state, the maximum total height of the tension spring (1) measured normal to the central plane or to the flat support surface, wherein particularly preferably, the total height of the tension spring in the unloaded state corresponds to 1.5 to 3 times the diameter of the wire that forms the tension spring (1) at the fastening section (5).

8. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the second leg (4) in the unloaded state has a normal distance from the central plane or the flat support surface that increases continuously in the direction of the bent end section (6), wherein preferably the second leg (4) in the unloaded state runs at an acute angle inclined PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f>ji®g154 / 204 3 / 5 with respect to the central plane or the flat support surface.

9. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that the bent end section (6) has a bearing surface for support on the track body element which, in the unloaded state, extends upwards at an acute angle relative to the central plane or to the flat bearing surface.

10. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, on the side of the free end portion (7) facing the second leg, a gap (x) is disposed between the bent end section (6) and the free end portion (7) of the fastening section (5), as seen in a longitudinal extension of the free end portion (7) and in a plan view.

11. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the fastening section (5) of the tension spring (1) can be pushed transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail into a tunnel-shaped recess (13) of the retaining device towards the rail, so that preferably the hook curve engages on the rail foot (16) in a final mounting position of the tension spring (1).

12. Tension spring, according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that between the first leg (3) and the free end portion (7) of the fastening section (5) there is provided a free space which can be penetrated by a screw rod of a fastening screw (25) which forms the retaining device and in which the fastening screw (25) can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the first leg (3), wherein the fastening screw rod (25) has a diameter which is greater than the diameter of a wire which forms the tension spring (1) in the fastening section (5), and wherein preferably the inner radius of the hook curve is greater than or equal to the radius of the screw rod.

13. Rail fastening device, characterized in that it comprises a tension spring (1), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12, and a fastening device (12) that can be fixed adjacent to a rail (8) on a base, in particular a sleeper (11), ribbed plate or angle guide plate, and against which the fastening section (5) is reinforced in the assembled state of the tension spring (1) such that the bent end section (6) can be resiliently arranged holding an element of the track body, in particular a track foot (16) of the track.

14. Rail fastening device, according to claim 13, characterized in that, in the assembled state of the tension spring (1), the fastening device engages at least partially on a free end portion (7) of the fastening section (5) and the first leg (3).

15. Rail fastening device, according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the fastening device (12) has or forms a tunnel-shaped recess (13) in which the fastening section (5) of the tension spring (1) can be at least partially inserted, wherein preferably the fastening section (5) of the tension spring (1) can be pushed transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail into the tunnel-shaped recess (13) towards the rail, wherein preferably the tunnel-shaped recess (13) is open on the side facing the track body element, in particular the rail foot (16), and the hook curve in a final mounting position of the tension spring (1) projects out of the tunnel-shaped recess (13) and engages on the track body element, in particular the rail foot (16).

16. Rail fastening device, according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the fastening device PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®42 / 0265f>ji®g150 / 204 5 / 5 is formed by a fastening screw (25) that can be screwed into the base, in particular a crossbar (11) or plate (10, 26), or by a hook with nut that is suspended on a base, in particular a ribbed plate, whose screw and / or thread shank passes through a free space between the first leg (3) and the free end portion (7) of the fastening section (5) of the tension spring (1) to fasten the tension spring (1) in the region of the fastening section (5) and optionally the first leg (3), wherein preferably a stop (45) that limits the screwing depth of the fastening device and, preferably, cooperate with the screw head (42) or the screw nut (25) is arranged in the base and / or in the fastening device,so that a clamping force on the tension spring (1) can be limited., 17. Rail fastening device, according to claim 16, characterized in that the tension spring (1) is displaceable, in particular rotatable or displaceable transversely to the longitudinal direction of the rail, with its bent end section (6) in the tightened state of the fastening device between a pre-assembly position and a final assembly position. PÊti1,iífã(8802600026205ddí)2®4 / 20265f>ji®g1 53 / 704

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