Telescopic guide rail

Abstract

The invention relates to a telescopic guide rail comprising a first guide rail element, a second guide rail element, a third guide rail element and a drive device. The first guide rail element and the second guide rail element are mounted against each other such that the first guide rail element and the second guide rail element are linearly displaceable relative to each other in a pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction, and the third guide rail element and the second guide rail element are mounted against each other such that the third guide rail element and the second guide rail element are linearly displaceable relative to each other in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction. The drive device is mounted on the first guide rail element or is mountable on a holding element which is connectable to the first guide rail element, and the drive device is designed to generate a linear movement of the second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction in reverse during operation of the telescopic guide rail. The telescopic guide rail comprises a traction element, wherein the traction element is fixed to the first guide rail element and to the third guide rail element, and the traction element is guided on the second guide rail element such that a displacement movement of the second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element results in a displacement movement of the third guide rail element relative to the second guide rail element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a telescopic guide rail having a first guide rail element, a second guide rail element, a third guide rail element, and a drive device, wherein the first and second guide rail elements are mounted together such that the first and second guide rail elements are linearly displaceable relative to each other in the pull-out direction or in the opposite direction of the pull-out direction, wherein the third and second guide rail elements are mounted together such that the third and second guide rail elements are linearly displaceable relative to each other in the pull-out direction or in the opposite direction of the pull-out direction, wherein the drive device is mounted on the first guide rail element or may be mounted on a retaining element that may be connected to the first guide rail element, and wherein the drive device is configured such that, during operation of the telescopic guide rail, the drive device causes the second guide rail element to move linearly relative to the first guide rail element in the pull-out direction or in the opposite direction of the pull-out direction. Background Technology

[0002] Telescopic guides having two or more guide elements and guides between corresponding two guide elements are known in various embodiments of the prior art. In many telescopic guides, the guide between two corresponding guide elements is implemented in the form of a rolling element cage. Here, the rolling elements are received in the rolling element cage, thereby reducing friction between the guide elements during pull-out movement. Telescopic guides are used in various household appliances, but also in automotive structures, furniture structures, and many other applications.

[0003] In an increasing number of applications, users require support or fully automated handling when performing pull-out actions. Therefore, telescopic guides with power support are known, for example, in the form of elastic pretensioning of one guide element relative to another. Motor-driven telescopic guides are also known, in which the displacement of one guide element relative to another is caused by an electric drive.

[0004] The disadvantages of power-assisted or motor-driven telescopic guides are that they either only work with telescopic guides that have exactly two guide elements, forcing only partial extension, or they require a very large design workload. A larger design workload typically also requires more installation space and / or higher production costs. Furthermore, known drive components require complex integration into existing guide element designs.

[0005] In contrast, one problem with this invention is to provide a telescopic guide rail that allows for power-assisted or motor-driven pull-out or push-in movement of three or more guide rail elements. Another problem is to provide such a telescopic guide rail that can be operated with a small number of parts. Furthermore, one problem is to provide such a telescopic guide rail that is cost-effective in manufacturing. Additionally, providing a telescopic guide rail with the smallest possible design space is also an issue. Moreover, a telescopic guide rail that integrates the drive mechanism well into existing guide rail element designs will also be created. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, at least one of the aforementioned problems is solved by a telescopic guide rail having a first guide rail element, a second guide rail element, a third guide rail element, and a driving device. The first and second guide rail elements are mounted together such that they are linearly displaceable relative to each other in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction. The third and second guide rail elements are also mounted together such that they are linearly displaceable relative to each other in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction. The driving device is mounted on the first guide rail element or can be mounted on the telescopic guide rail. A retaining element is connected to a first guide rail element, wherein the drive mechanism is configured such that, during operation of the telescopic guide rail, the drive mechanism causes a linear movement of a second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element in the pull-out direction or in the opposite direction to the pull-out direction, wherein the telescopic guide rail includes a traction element, wherein the traction element is fixed to the first guide rail element and fixed to a third guide rail element, and wherein the traction element is guided on the second guide rail element in a direction parallel to the pull-out direction, such that displacement of the second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element causes displacement of the third guide rail element relative to the second guide rail element.

[0007] The basic idea of ​​this invention is to provide a connection between the pushing or pulling movement of a third guide rail element relative to a second guide rail element in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction and the pushing or pulling movement of the second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element, by means of a traction element. According to the invention, the connection of the two pushing or pulling movements is space-saving in one embodiment and inexpensive in another.

[0008] The core function of the traction element is to simultaneously fix it to both the first and third guide rail elements, and also to the second guide rail element. In this way, the movement of the third guide rail element relative to the second guide rail element is coupled to the movement of the second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element.

[0009] In the context of this application, the pull-out direction refers to the possible direction of movement of one guide rail element relative to another guide rail element from the push-in position to the pull-out position. The push-in movement occurs in the opposite direction to the pull-out direction.

[0010] The relative movement between two guide rail elements in the pull-out direction is called pull-out movement, and the relative movement between the two guide rail elements in the opposite direction of the pull-out direction is called push-in movement.

[0011] In one embodiment of the invention, the second guide rail element includes a first guide element having a first deflection surface and a second guide element having a second deflection surface, wherein the first guide element is configured such that a pulling force in the pull-out direction can be transmitted from the second guide rail element to the traction element, wherein the second guide element is configured such that a pulling force opposite to the pull-out direction can be transmitted from the second guide rail element to the traction element, and wherein the traction element deflects from the first deflection surface and the second deflection surface such that displacement of the second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element causes the transmission of pulling force in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction from the traction element to the third guide rail element.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first deflection surface of the first guide element has a surface normal having at least one component in the pull-out direction, and the second deflection surface of the second guide element has a surface normal having at least one component opposite to the pull-out direction.

[0013] In one embodiment of the invention, the first deflection surface and the second deflection surface are curved surfaces, preferably semi-circular curved surfaces, such that when the traction element comes into contact with the deflection surface, the traction element follows the shape of the deflection surface.

[0014] In one embodiment of the invention, at least a first or second guiding element includes a pair of opposing traction element guiding surfaces facing each other, wherein the traction element guiding surfaces are configured to guide the traction element in a direction perpendicular to the pull-out direction. The traction element guiding surfaces serve to center the movement of the traction element and prevent the traction element from jumping.

[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, at least a first deflection surface or a second deflection surface is configured to deflect the traction element by 180°, wherein the deflection surface has a recess such that the traction element engages with the deflection surface in an angular range of less than 180°.

[0016] This configuration of the first deflection surface, the second deflection surface, or both deflection surfaces allows the traction element to effectively deflect 180° each time, wherein the traction element only engages with the corresponding deflection surface on the shortened surface, thereby reducing friction.

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, the angle of the recess is less than 180°, preferably 120° or less, and particularly preferably 90° or less. While it is important to make the recess as large as possible to reduce friction, effective deflection must also be ensured.

[0018] In one embodiment of the invention, the guide element is selected from curved guide surfaces, cylinders, pins, wheels, and rollers. Guide elements that can pivot or rotate relative to a second guide element, such as wheels and rollers, reduce the frictional forces that occur.

[0019] In one embodiment of the invention, the distance between the guide elements is at least as large as the maximum travel distance of the third guide element relative to the second guide element.

[0020] The traction element guide surface is configured to guide the traction element in the lateral direction, i.e., laterally to the longitudinal extension of the traction element, thereby preventing lateral slippage of the traction element against the guide rail element. An example of a guide element configuration with a lateral guide surface is forming a groove, the base of which is a corresponding guide surface of the guide element, such that the traction element is also guided in the lateral direction.

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention, at least a first or second guide element includes a stationary holding portion fixed to a second guide rail element and a deflection portion fixed to the holding portion, allowing it to move in a pull-out direction. The deflection portion includes a deflection surface of the guide element, and the deflection portion is elastically pre-tensioned relative to the holding portion in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction by means of a spring element, thereby tensioning the traction element. In this way, the pre-tensioning of the traction element can be achieved using the guide element. If the traction element is pre-tensioned, this ensures that the telescopic guide rail operates without backlash during pull-out and push-in. By changing the spring force of the spring element, the moving force generated by friction on the deflection surface of the traction element can be changed.

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, the holding portion and the deflecting portion include a latch lug and a latch recess, wherein the latch lug and the latch recess are configured to be complementary to each other, and wherein the latch lug and the latch recess are disposed on the holding portion and the deflecting portion such that the latch lug and the latch recess form end stops for displacement movement of the deflecting portion relative to the holding portion.

[0023] This type of snap-fit ​​hook and associated undercut provides loss protection for the elastically pre-tensioned guide of the traction element in a simple manner. In particular, assembly is achieved simply by inserting the deflector into the retaining part. The deflector and retaining parts then lock together.

[0024] In another embodiment of the invention, the telescopic guide rail includes two traction elements, wherein the first guide element includes two first deflection surfaces, wherein on each first deflection surface, one of the two traction elements is deflected, and wherein the second guide element includes two second deflection surfaces, wherein on each second deflection surface, one of the two traction elements is deflected.

[0025] In one embodiment, the first guide element and the second guide element are each fitted with two deflection surfaces, such that the telescopic guide can be fitted with one or two traction elements, for example, depending on the expected load.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, the traction element has a latching protrusion on the surface that engages with the deflection surface. This protrusion on the traction element interacts with a recess in the corresponding deflection surface to provide a latching position for the movement of the traction element relative to the deflection surface, and thus provides a latching position for each guide rail element relative to each other during its movement.

[0027] In one embodiment of the invention, the telescopic guide rail includes a rolling element holder having a rolling element received therein and guiding between the running surfaces of a second guide element and a third guide element, wherein at least a first guide element or a second guide element is formed in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction for movement of the rolling element holder.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, the ball cage is a strip-shaped ball cage. In this way, full utilization of the structural space within the guide rail can be ensured.

[0029] In an alternative embodiment, the ball cage is a ball cage having a bridging element connecting the ball cage portions between the various running surfaces of the various guide rail elements.

[0030] In one embodiment of the invention, the first guide element and / or the second guide element include a gap into which the first and / or third guide rail elements can be guided. In this way, the second guide rail element, i.e., the center rail, can be pre-assembled, particularly together with the guide elements, while in the final assembly, the first and third guide rail elements can be installed without colliding with the guide elements.

[0031] While all possible drive mechanisms are essentially suitable for displacement of the second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element, in one embodiment of the invention, the drive mechanism is selected from spindle drives, belt drives, rack and pinion drives, flexible shafts, push rods, actuating elements, traction elements, cable tension, gas compression springs, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, and sockets for linear motors, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment of the invention, such a drive mechanism can be coupled to an electric drive, such that the electric drive itself can be positioned outside the telescopic guide rail.

[0032] In another embodiment of the invention, the telescopic guide rail includes an electric drive element coupled to a drive mechanism. This electric drive element then forms an integral part of the telescopic guide rail. Examples of suitable electric drive elements are rotary electric motors or electromagnetic linear drives.

[0033] In one embodiment of the invention, the driving device is a spindle drive having a threaded screw that is rotatable relative to a first guide rail element and fixedly mounted in the pull-out direction, and an internal thread that is fixed in the pull-out direction on a second guide rail element.

[0034] The internal thread can be defined on the first or second guide element, or on an additional element connected to the second guide element.

[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, the internal thread, as part of the spindle nut, floats in at least one direction perpendicular to the pull-out direction. This floating of the internal thread of the spindle drive in the direction perpendicular to the pull-out direction compensates for tolerance clearances when the guide element and the threaded spindle interact. Therefore, the spindle can collide more frequently without requiring highly precise guidance. This eliminates the need for a more precise bearing at the end of the threaded spindle on the second guide element.

[0036] In one embodiment of the invention, the spindle nut is mounted together with the internal thread in the first or second guide element.

[0037] In one embodiment of the invention, the internal thread, as part of the spindle nut, floats in at least one direction perpendicular to the pull-out direction, and has a spindle nut clearance in a first or second guide element, wherein the threaded spindle is guided through the first or second guide element in a spindle receiving chamber (hole), wherein the threaded spindle in the spindle receiving chamber includes a spindle clearance, wherein the spindle clearance is less than or equal to the spindle nut clearance. In this way, collisions with the threaded spindle can be reduced. The threaded spindle can be centered.

[0038] In one embodiment of the invention, the internal thread is part of the spindle nut, wherein the spindle nut has a torque support that introduces the torque that has been transmitted from the threaded spindle to the spindle nut into the first or second guide element.

[0039] In addition to receiving and introducing torque, the torque support also allows for a clear installation orientation to facilitate the installation of telescopic guides.

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, the spindle nut is a resiliently pre-tensioned locking nut. This locking nut serves as overload protection. If the torque acting on the spindle nut is too large, the locking nut will open against the spring force, and the rotational movement of the threaded spindle will no longer be transmitted to the spindle nut.

[0041] In one embodiment of the invention, an electromagnetic spindle nut release device is provided that clamps the threaded spindle when it is not energized, thereby providing a braking effect.

[0042] In one embodiment of the invention, the second guide rail element includes an axial bearing for a threaded spindle. In another embodiment, the bearing extends from the back of the guide rail of the first guide rail element in the form of a bearing plate. In yet another embodiment, the axial bearing of the first guide rail element is embodied as a separate plastic component connected to the second guide rail element.

[0043] In one embodiment of the invention, the traction element is derived from a track, cable, strip, belt, or combination thereof. In another embodiment of the invention, the traction element comprises an elastic or inelastic material, or a combination thereof.

[0044] In one embodiment of the invention, the traction element is a flexible belt, particularly a flexible belt with a low coefficient of friction, preferably a belt made of spring plates.

[0045] In one embodiment, the traction element is a one-piece construction. In one embodiment of the invention, the traction element is a one-piece continuous traction element, preferably an annular belt. In another embodiment, the traction element is a one-piece construction; however, the two ends of the one-piece traction element are assembled or connected together. In one embodiment of the invention, the two ends of the traction element are riveted or screwed together. In one embodiment of the invention, a spring return plate is used to hold the two ends of the traction element together, preferably the two ends of a belt. The traction element is wound in this spring return plate in a cable tie manner.

[0046] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the traction element is constructed in two parts: a first traction element part deflected by a first deflection surface and a second traction element part deflected by a second deflection surface, wherein the first and second traction element parts are respectively fixed on a first guide rail element and a third guide rail element.

[0047] The two-piece traction element allows for simplified fixing or installation of the traction element on the first and third guide rail elements.

[0048] In one embodiment, two fastening elements connect the first and second traction element portions to the closed traction element. The two fastening elements are respectively fixed to the first and third guide rail elements. For example, lugs in the fastening elements are suspended in push rods on the first and third guide rail elements.

[0049] In one embodiment of the invention, the telescopic guide rail includes at least one fastening element connected to a first guide rail element or a third guide rail element, wherein the fastening element includes at least one hook, and wherein at least one end of the first traction element portion and one end of the second traction element portion include a suspension ring, wherein the suspension ring is suspended in the hook of the fastening element. This configuration of the fastening element allows for simplified installation of the traction element.

[0050] The two-piece traction element also allows for the simple provision of traction elements of different lengths. In contrast, the one-piece closed traction element is only suitable for a second guide element of one length.

[0051] It is understood that, in one embodiment, a dividing portion that separates the traction element into first and second traction element portions between two fixed points is provided on the first guide element and on the third guide element.

[0052] In one embodiment of the invention, the traction element and / or its guides on at least the first, second, or third guide rail elements are configured such that both tension and thrust are transmissible using the traction element. The second guide rail element includes a guide element configured such that both tension and thrust can be transmitted from the second guide rail element to the traction element. The traction element is deflected by the guide element such that both the tension and thrust acting on the traction element cause the third guide rail element to move relative to the second guide rail element in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction. In this embodiment, the traction element can be constructed in an open manner, i.e., a closed loop is not required. In this way, structural space can be saved.

[0053] In one embodiment of the invention, the traction element comprises or is made of a conductive material. Examples of conductive materials in this sense are steel and carbon fiber. In one embodiment of the invention, the traction element consists of a conductive steel sheet. In one embodiment of the invention, the traction element comprises braided or knitted plastic fibers, wherein the conductive wires or fibers are braided or knitted into a fabric or knitted fabric.

[0054] In one embodiment of the invention, the first and / or second guiding element further includes at least one conductive portion, wherein the conductive portion is electrically connected to the second guide rail element. In another embodiment, a traction element comprising or made of a conductive material is electrically connected to the first and / or third guide rail element.

[0055] In this way, equipotential bonding can be provided between all three guide rail elements or between two selected guide rail elements. Furthermore, power and voltage can be supplied to electrical equipment, such as sensors and lighting devices, via the guide rail elements and traction elements.

[0056] When referring to telescopic guide rails in the context of this application, the term should generally be understood to include not only guide rails in which the first guide rail element and the other guide rail element have approximately the same length, but also linear guide rails in which the other guide rail element is significantly shorter than the first guide rail element.

[0057] When described in this application, the telescopic guide rail according to the invention includes first, second, and third guide rail elements, but this does not preclude the telescopic guide rail from including another guide rail element. In one embodiment, at least one other guide rail element is also synchronized with the pull-out movement of the other guide rail element via a traction element and its guide, as designed according to the invention.

[0058] In one embodiment of the invention, the first guide rail element of the telescopic guide rail is a fixed guide rail element, which is connected to a stationary element, such as the frame of a piece of furniture, in the installed state. In such an embodiment, for example, with a drawer, the second and third guide rail elements are movable relative to the stationary element.

[0059] In one embodiment of the invention, at least the first, second, or third guide rail element is made of a material selected from a combination of steel sheet, aluminized steel sheet, stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic. In particular, plastic injection-molded guide rail elements allow the guide elements to be directly integrated into the third guide rail element.

[0060] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first guide rail element includes two running surfaces, the second guide rail element includes four running surfaces, and the third guide rail element includes two running surfaces. A plurality of rolling elements and / or sliding bodies are disposed between the two running surfaces of the first and second guide rail elements, such that the first and second guide rail elements are linearly displaceable in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction. Furthermore, they are disposed between the two running surfaces of the third and second guide rail elements, such that the third and second guide rail elements are linearly displaceable relative to each other in the pull-out direction. In another embodiment of the present invention, each of the first, second, and third guide rail elements includes a leg supporting the running surface of the rolling elements and a back portion connecting the two legs.

[0061] The rolling element in this invention can be, for example, a ball or a roller. It will be understood that, in one embodiment of the invention, the rolling element is guided between the guide elements by means of a rolling element cage, particularly a roller cage. In one embodiment, the rolling element cage can be a separate strip-shaped cage, or it can be a one-piece cage with its back connected to the front portion between opposing pairs of guide surfaces.

[0062] The two sets of drive components are considered as drive devices for linear displacement movement of the second guide rail element relative to the first guide rail element. On one hand, these drive components provide only power support, such as through elastic pretensioning or pneumatic components. On the other hand, the drive components are considered as drive components that can be connected to an electric drive component or connected to an electric drive component so that pull-out movement and / or push-in movement are driven by a motor.

[0063] Furthermore, at least one of the aforementioned problems can also be solved by a pull-out assembly comprising a retaining element, specifically a frame, such as a piece of furniture, and a receiving element, specifically a drawer movable relative to the retaining element, and two telescopic rails arranged opposite each other and having parallel pull-out directions as described in the above embodiments, wherein a first rail element of each telescopic rail is connected to the retaining element, and a third rail element of each telescopic rail is connected to the receiving element. Attached Figure Description

[0064] Further advantages, features, and possible applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments and related drawings. In the drawings, the same elements are identified by the same reference numerals.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a side view of a telescopic guide rail according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 2 This is an isometric view of a telescopic guide rail in its fully inserted state according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Axonometric view of a partially disconnected telescopic guide rail in a partially extended state.

[0068] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 and Figure 3 Axonometric view of the telescopic guide rail in its fully extended state.

[0069] Figure 5 yes Figures 2 to 4 Axonometric view of a partially disconnected telescopic guide rail in its fully extended state.

[0070] Figure 6This is an isometric view of a partial pull-out embodiment of a telescopic guide rail according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Enlarged isometric view of the first guide element of the telescopic guide rail partially disconnected.

[0072] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Enlarged top view of the first guide element partially disconnected.

[0073] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 and Figure 8 An enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the first guiding element, showing a partial break.

[0074] Figure 10 yes Figures 6 to 9 An enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the second guide element of the telescopic guide rail being partially disconnected.

[0075] Figure 11 yes Figures 6 to 10 Enlarged side view of the second guide element of the telescopic guide rail partially disconnected.

[0076] Figure 12 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the telescopic guide rail in the spindle nut area.

[0077] Figure 13 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the telescopic guide rail partially disconnected in the first guide element area.

[0078] Figure 14 This is a partially disconnected cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the traction element.

[0079] Figure 15a and Figure 15b An embodiment of a two-piece traction element is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0080] The telescopic guide rail 4 discussed below with reference to the diagrams all include exactly three guide rail elements: a first guide rail element 1, a second guide rail element 2, and a third guide rail element 3. In these embodiments, the first guide rail element 1 forms the outer guide rail of the telescopic guide rail 4, the second guide rail element forms the central guide rail of the telescopic guide rail 4, and the third guide rail element 3 forms the inner guide rail of the telescopic guide rail 4.

[0081] The considered embodiment of the telescopic guide rail 4 is a fully extended embodiment, that is, the third guide rail element 3 can be extended to its full length relative to the first guide rail element 1 so that it no longer overlaps with the first guide rail element 1 in the extension direction 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the first guide rail element 1 is, for example, a fixed guide rail element attached to the frame of a piece of furniture.

[0082] Guide rail elements 1, 2, and 3 are each installed in pairs with displacement capability. Therefore, the second guide rail element 2 is displaceably installed on the first guide rail element 1, while the third guide rail element 3 is displaceably installed on the second guide rail element 2.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the central guide rail element 2 consists of two guide rails that are connected to each other at the back in a material-locking manner, each guide rail having two running surfaces.

[0084] Figure 1 The schematic diagram illustrates the basic principle of the present invention, which is to connect the displacement movement of the second guide rail element 2 to the first guide rail element 1 to the displacement movement of the third guide rail element 3 to the second guide rail element 2.

[0085] For subsequent considerations, how the second guide element 2 moves relative to the first guide element 1 is initially irrelevant, and in particular, how the drive mechanism of the second guide element 2 is constructed for this displacement relative to the first guide element 1 is irrelevant.

[0086] The connection between the two displacement movements is implemented via a traction element; in the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished via a transverse elastic band 5 made of nylon. This elastic band 5 is secured to the front end of the first guide element 1 in the pull-out direction 7 by means of rivets 6. Additionally, the band 5 is also secured to the rear end of the third guide element 3 in the pull-out direction 7 by rivets 8.

[0087] The band 5 is now additionally guided around two guide elements in the form of a first pin 10 and a second pin 9, the guide elements being arranged such that they remain stationary on the second guide element 2. In the sense of this application, the first pin 10 forms the first guide element and the second pin 9 forms the second guide element. If the second guide element 2 now moves relative to the first guide element 1 in the pull-out direction 7, the first pin 10 presses the band 5 in the pull-out direction 7, and thus applies tension to the band 5 and the rivet 8 on the third guide element 3, causing the third guide element 3 to also displace relative to the second guide element 2 in the pull-out direction 7.

[0088] During the movement of the second guide rail element 2 in the pull-out direction, the first portion 11 of the belt 5 forms a load run 11, extending from the rivet 6 on the first guide rail element via the first pin 10 to the rivet 8 on the third guide rail element 3. The second portion of the belt 5 forms an empty drum in this direction of movement, extending from the rivet 6 on the first guide rail element 1 via the second pin 9 to the rivet 8 on the third guide rail element 3. If the direction of movement of the second guide rail element 2 is reversed, causing it to translate to the first guide rail element 1 opposite to the pull-out direction 7, the load run 11 becomes an empty run, and the empty run 12 becomes a load run.

[0089] When the second guide element 2 moves in the pull-out direction 7, the first pin 10 acts as a release roller, wherein the "release end" of the belt 5 pulls the third guide element 3 in the pull-out direction 7. If the direction of movement is reversed, this consideration applies to the second pin 9.

[0090] Figures 3 to 5 An isometric view of telescopic guide 4 is now shown, which implements the previously shown... Figure 1 The design principle is shown in the schematic diagram.

[0091] In this embodiment, the center guide rail 2 is displaceable relative to the first guide rail element 1 in the pull-out direction 7 or opposite to the pull-out direction by means of a spindle drive 13 driven by a motor. The threaded spindle of the spindle drive 13 is mounted on the first guide rail element 1 and engages with a spindle nut fixed to the second guide rail element 2, such that the second guide rail element is displaced relative to the first guide rail element when the spindle rotates. In the illustrated embodiment, the spindle nut is fixed to and opposite the second guide rail element 7, but floats in the lateral direction perpendicular to the pull-out direction 7, i.e., has a clearance, to accommodate tolerances in the lateral direction. The spindle is then coupled to an electric motor 14, such that the pull-out and push-in movements of the telescopic guide rail 4 are motor-driven.

[0092] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the diagram, the telescopic guide rail 4 is shown as being placed on the first guide rail element 1, wherein the upper part of the telescopic guide rail 4 is... Figure 3 and Figure 4 It is shown as disconnected. Therefore, the interior of the second guide rail element 2 can be viewed.

[0093] Internally, a nylon belt can be considered as a traction element 5, which is fixed to the first guide rail element 1 and the third guide rail element 3 at the points marked by reference numerals 15 and 16 in the attached drawings. If the spindle drive 13 now moves the second guide rail element 2 in the pull-out direction, this displacement causes the belt 5 to be pulled, causing the third guide rail element 3 to also be displaced relative to the second guide rail element 2 in the pull-out direction.

[0094] exist Figure 5 In particular, two guide elements 17 and 18 can be seen on the second guide rail element 2. Similar to the previous... Figure 1 As shown in the schematic diagram, pins 9 and 10 guide the strip-shaped traction element 5 and support it in a direction parallel to the pull-out direction 7. In this way, the force acting on the second guide element 2 in a direction parallel to the pull-out direction 7 can be transmitted to the traction element 5.

[0095] Figures 6 to 13 Various aspects of another embodiment of the telescopic guide rail 4 are shown. This telescopic guide rail 4 also consists of a first stationary guide rail element 1, a second central guide rail element 2, and a third guide rail element 3. The three guide rail elements 1, 2, and 3 form a fully telescopic extractor.

[0096] In this embodiment, the pulling or pushing movement of the second guide rail element 2 relative to the first guide rail element 1 is also driven by a spindle drive 13. The spindle drive 13 includes a threaded spindle 19, a spindle nut 20, and an electric motor 14. The pulling or pushing movement of the third guide rail element 3 relative to the first guide rail element 1 is driven by a belt 5 as a traction element, which is synchronized with the pulling or pushing movement of the second guide rail element 2, as shown in the previously described embodiment.

[0097] To guide belt 5, Figure 6-13 The embodiment of the telescopic guide rail 4 also includes two guide elements 17, 18. The first guide element 17 is in Figure 7-9 The image is enlarged in size. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first guide element 17 includes two first deflection surfaces 21, 22. In this way, the two traction elements can be guided by the first guide element, thereby adapting the telescopic guide rail 4 to various load conditions. In the illustrated embodiment, only one strip 5 for synchronizing the pull-out or push-in movement of the third guide rail element 3 is received on the two guide elements 17, 18.

[0098] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 As can be seen in the diagram, the belt 5 on the first guiding element 17 is laterally guided not only by the deflection surface 22, but also by two opposing traction element guiding surfaces 23 and 24. These lateral traction element guiding surfaces 23 and 24 prevent the belt 5 from jumping or bouncing off the corresponding deflection surfaces 21 and 22. In addition, the traction element guiding surfaces 23 and 24 keep the belt 5 centered on each deflection surface 21 and 22.

[0099] Each of the deflecting surfaces 21 and 22 causes a 180° deflection of the belt 5, where 180° is the rotation angle (or encirclement angle) of the belt. However, each of the deflecting surfaces 21 and 22 has two recesses 25 and 26. These recesses 25 and 26 reduce the support surface of the belt 5 on the respective deflecting surfaces 21 and 22, thereby reducing the friction between the belt 5 and the respective deflecting surface 22. The recesses 25 and 26 shown extend in an angular range of less than 90°.

[0100] Recesses 25 and 26 can also provide a latching function, such as Figure 14 As shown. In this variant, the traction element 5 includes a latching protrusion 27 on its inner surface 28. The latching protrusion engages upon reaching one of the recesses 25, 26, and positions the belt 5, thereby positioning the pull-out movement of the third guide element 3 relative to the second guide element 2 at a position predetermined by the position of the latching protrusion 27 on the belt 5.

[0101] It can be understood that the second guide element 18 is configured to correspond to the first guide element 17. The second guide element 18 also has two deflection surfaces 21, 22, which similarly cause the traction element 5 to deflect by 180°. This can be seen from... Figure 10 As can be seen from the sectional view.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment of the second guide element 18, it is constructed in two parts. The guide element 18 includes a retaining portion 29 and a deflecting portion. The retaining portion 29 is statically connected to the second guide rail element 2, while the deflecting portion 30 is displaceably mounted on the retaining portion 29 in the pull-out direction. The deflecting portion 30 supports deflecting surfaces 21, 22. A coil spring 31, as a spring element in the sense of this application, elastically pretensions the deflecting portion 30 in the pull-out direction 7. In this way, the spring 31 holds the traction element 5 taut under tension. This reduces the clearance between the traction element 5 and the three guide rail elements 1, 2, 3, thereby reducing the clearance of the pull-out movement of the guide rail elements relative to each other. The movement of the pretensioned deflecting portion 30 is restricted by a stop surface 32 on the retaining portion 29, wherein the deflecting portion 30 includes a hook 33 configured to engage and abut against the stop surface 32. The combination of the stop surface 32 and the hook 33 also serves to simply mount the deflecting portion onto the retaining portion. The deflection portion 30 is pushed onto the retaining portion 29 and is locked once the axial position of the hook 33 has passed the stop surface 32.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the rolling element retainer 34 is in the form of a strip ball retainer 34, which is disposed between each pair of guide rail elements 1, 2, and 3. The first guide element 17 also forms stops for the two ball retainers 34, which are disposed between the second guide rail element 2 and the third guide rail element 3.

[0104] The first guide element 17 also serves to mount the spindle nut 20 onto the second guide element 2. This reduces the number of necessary components at and connected to the second guide element 2. The spindle nut 20 supports an internal thread 38 that engages with a threaded spindle 19. The spindle nut 20 is received in the first guide element 17 such that it is fixed in the pull-out direction or opposite to the pull-out direction, such that rotational movement of the threaded spindle 19 fixedly mounted on the first guide element causes linear movement of the spindle nut 20, and thus causes linear movement of the second guide element 2 relative to the first guide element 1.

[0105] Conversely, the spindle nut 20 floats on the first guide element 17 in all directions perpendicular to the pull-out direction 7. Therefore, the impact of the threaded spindle 19 on the guide elements is balanced and does not cause vibration of the guide elements 1, 2, and 3. Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the bearing in the first guide element 17 is shown. When viewed in this manner, the spindle nut 20 floats in the vertical direction 36 and the transverse direction 37.

[0106] The spindle nut 20 is further configured to include torque supports in the form of protrusions 39 on both sides. These introduce the torque already transmitted from the threaded spindle 19 to the spindle nut 20 into the first guide element 17. Therefore, the torque does not need to be transmitted specifically through the side surfaces of the spindle nut 40. Consequently, the guide can also be used for larger load conditions.

[0107] The protrusion 39 not only forms the torque support but also provides clear assembly orientation to prevent incorrect installation of the spindle nut 20.

[0108] exist Figure 7 As can be seen, the threaded spindle 19 passes through the spindle receiving chamber (hole) 41 and the first guide element 17, thereby engaging with the spindle nut 20. The dimensions of the spindle receiving chamber 41 are such that the clearance of the threaded spindle 19 in the spindle receiving chamber 41 is smaller than the clearance of the spindle nut 20 in the vertical direction 36 and the transverse direction 37.

[0109] Figure 10 The bearing at the motor side end of the threaded spindle 19 on the first guide rail element 1 is shown. This installation is carried out in the axial direction, i.e., in the pull-out direction, by means of a tab 42 that bends out from the back of the guide rail 42 of the first guide rail element 1, in which the hollow cylindrical bearing bushing 43 for guiding the spindle 19 is received.

[0110] Figure 13It is explained that the guide element 17 has a gap 44, which allows the third guide element 3 to be mounted on the second guide element 2, which is fully equipped with the guide element, without causing the third guide element 3 to collide with the guide element 17.

[0111] Figure 15a and Figure 15b A two-piece structure of the strip-shaped traction element 5 is shown, wherein two traction element portions 44, 45 are each connected at their two ends. A fastening element 46 with two hooks 47 serves as a connector at both ends. A suspension ring 48 is provided at each end of the two traction element portions 44, 45 and is suspended in the corresponding hook 47 of the fastening element 46. The fastening element 46 also includes a bore through which a striking rivet passes, thereby connecting the fastening element 46 to the first guide rail element 1 and the third guide rail element 3, respectively.

[0112] For the purposes of the original disclosure, it should be noted that all features will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this specification, drawings, and claims, even if they are specifically described only in relation to particular other features, but can be combined individually or in any combination with other features or groups of features not specified herein, provided that this is not expressly excluded or the technical circumstances make such a combination impossible or meaningless. A full and explicit description of all conceivable combinations of features is omitted herein solely for the sake of brevity and readability.

[0113] Although the invention has been shown and described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such representation and description are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection defined by the claims. The invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

[0114] Modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art based on the accompanying drawings, description, and appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" does not exclude multiple elements. The fact that certain features are claimed in different claims does not preclude protection of combinations thereof. Reference numerals in the claims are not intended to limit the scope of protection.

[0115] List of reference numerals

[0116] 1 First guide rail element

[0117] 2 Second guide rail components

[0118] 3 Third guide rail components

[0119] 4 Telescopic guide rails

[0120] 5. Belt as traction element

[0121] 6, 8 rivets

[0122] 7. Pull out the direction

[0123] 9, 10 pins

[0124] 11 load operation

[0125] 12 empty runs

[0126] 13 Spindle drive components

[0127] 14 electric motors

[0128] 15. Fixing point 5 on the first guide rail element 1

[0129] 16. Fixing point 5 on the third guide rail element 3

[0130] 17, 18 Guide elements

[0131] 19 threaded spindle

[0132] 20 spindle nut

[0133] 21, 22 Deflection surfaces

[0134] 23, 24 Traction element guide surfaces

[0135] 25, 26 concavity

[0136] 27. Latch protrusion of traction element 5

[0137] 28. The inner surface of traction element 5

[0138] 29. Maintain part

[0139] 30 deflection section

[0140] 31 helical spring

[0141] 32 Stop surface

[0142] 33 hooks

[0143] 34 with ball bearing cages

[0144] 35 Stop section

[0145] 36 Vertical direction

[0146] 37 Horizontal direction

[0147] 38 internal thread

[0148] 39 protrusions

[0149] 40 spindle nut side surface

[0150] 41 Main shaft receiving chamber

[0151] 42. Lugs for guiding threaded spindles

[0152] 43 bearing bushing

[0153] 44, 45 Traction element section

[0154] 46 Fastening Components

[0155] 47 hooks

[0156] 48 suspension rings

Claims

1. A telescopic rail, comprising: a first rail element, a second rail element, a third rail element, and a drive device, wherein the first rail element and the second rail element are mounted together such that they are linearly displaceable relative to each other in a pull-out direction or counter to the pull-out direction, wherein the third rail element and the second rail element are mounted together such that they are linearly displaceable relative to each other in the pull-out direction or counter to the pull-out direction, wherein the drive device is mounted on the first rail element or can be mounted on a holding element which can be connected to the first rail element, and wherein the drive device is configured such that, in the operation of the telescopic rail, it causes a linear movement of the second rail element relative to the first rail element in the pull-out direction or counter to the pull-out direction, wherein the telescopic rail comprises a traction element, wherein the traction element is fixed to the first rail element and to the third rail element, wherein the traction element is guided on the second rail element in a direction parallel to the pull-out direction such that a displacement movement of the second rail element relative to the first rail element results in a displacement movement of the third rail element relative to the second rail element, wherein the drive device is a spindle drive comprising a threaded spindle which is rotatable relative to the first rail element and is mounted stationary in the pull-out direction, and an internal thread which is fixed on the second rail element in the pull-out direction, and wherein the traction element is a belt.

2. The telescoping rail of claim 1, wherein, The second rail element comprises a first guide element having a first deflection surface and a second guide element having a second deflection surface, wherein the first guide element is configured such that a pulling force in the pull-out direction can be transmitted from the second rail element to the traction element by means of the first guide element, wherein the second guide element is configured such that a pulling force counter to the pull-out direction can be transmitted from the second rail element to the traction element by means of the second guide element, and wherein the traction element is deflected by the first and second deflection surfaces such that a displacement movement of the second rail element relative to the first rail element causes a pulling force to be transmitted from the traction element to the third rail element in the pull-out direction or counter to the pull-out direction.

3. The telescoping rail of claim 2, wherein, At least the first guide element or the second guide element comprises a pair of oppositely arranged traction element guide surfaces which face each other, wherein the traction element guide surfaces are configured such that they guide the traction element in a direction perpendicular to the pull-out direction.

4. A telescopic rail according to claim 2 or 3, characterised in that, At least the first guide element or the second guide element comprises a holding portion fixed to the second rail element and a deflection portion, the holding portion being stationary, the deflection portion being fixed to the holding portion such that the deflection portion is movable in the pull-out direction, wherein the deflection portion comprises the first deflection surface of the first guide element or the second deflection surface of the second guide element, and wherein the deflection portion is elastically pretensioned in the pull-out direction or counter to the pull-out direction relative to the holding portion by means of a spring element, such that the traction element is tensioned.

5. The telescoping rail of claim 2, wherein, At least the first deflection surface or the second deflection surface is configured such that it deflects the traction element by 180°, wherein the first deflection surface or the second deflection surface comprises a recess, such that the traction element is frictionally engaged with the first deflection surface or the second deflection surface over an angle of less than 180°.

6. The telescoping rail of claim 5, wherein, The traction element comprises a latch protrusion on a surface that is frictionally engaged with the first deflection surface or the second deflection surface.

7. The telescoping rail of claim 2, wherein, The telescopic rail comprises a rolling element holder in which rolling elements are received and guided between the running surfaces of the second rail element and the third rail element, wherein at least the first guide element or the second guide element forms a stop for the movement of the rolling element holder in the pull-out direction or counter to the pull-out direction.

8. The telescoping rail of claim 2, wherein, The inner thread is mounted as part of a spindle nut such that it floats in at least one direction perpendicular to the pull-out direction.

9. The telescoping rail of claim 8, wherein, The inner thread is mounted as part of a spindle nut in the first guide element or the second guide element such that it floats with a nut clearance in at least one direction perpendicular to the pull-out direction, wherein the threaded spindle is guided through the first guide element or the second guide element in a spindle receiving bore, wherein the threaded spindle has a spindle clearance in the spindle receiving bore, and wherein the spindle clearance is less than or equal to the nut clearance.

10. The telescopic guide rail according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that The inner thread is part of a spindle nut, wherein the spindle nut comprises a torque arm that introduces a torque transferred from the threaded spindle to the spindle nut into the first guide element or second guide element.

11. The telescoping rail of claim 8, wherein, The spindle nut is a clamping nut as overload protection.

12. The telescoping rail of claim 2, wherein, The traction element is configured in two parts, wherein a first traction element part guides around the first guide element and a second traction element part guides around the second guide element, wherein the first and second traction element parts are fixed on the first and third rail elements, respectively.

13. The telescoping rail of claim 1, wherein, The second rail element comprises an axial bearing for the threaded spindle.

14. The telescoping rail of claim 13, wherein, The axial bearing comprises a bearing plate that is bent out of a rail back of the first rail element.

15. The telescoping rail of claim 1, wherein, The traction element is configured such that both pulling forces and pushing forces can be transmitted by means of the traction element, wherein the second rail element comprises a guide element, wherein the guide element is configured such that both pulling forces and pushing forces can be transmitted from the second rail element to the traction element by means of the guide element, and wherein the traction element is deflected by the guide element such that both pulling forces acting on the traction element and pushing forces acting on the traction element result in a displacement movement of the third rail element relative to the second rail element in the pulling-out direction or counter to the pulling-out direction.

16. A pull-out assembly comprising a holding element, which is a framework, and a receiving element, which is a drawer, movable relative to the holding element, and two telescopic guides according to any one of claims 1-15, which are arranged opposite to each other and in parallel pull-out directions, wherein, The first rail element of each of the telescopic rails is connected to the holding element and the third rail element of each of the telescopic rails is connected to the receiving element.

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