Clamping device for a vibration device for inserting base elements, vibration device provided with a clamping device and method thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a clamping device for a vibration or hammering device for inserting a foundation element with a flange into the ground, a vibration or hammering device provided with such a clamping device and a method for inserting a foundation element. The clamping device comprises: - a frame; - a first clamping body and a second clamping body, which are configured to be movable relative to each other, and wherein the first clamping body and the second clamping body are provided with corresponding first and second clamping surfaces, which are configured for engaging with corresponding first and second flange surfaces; - a positioning drive for moving the first clamping body relative to the second clamping body in a positioning direction; and - a clamping drive for moving the first clamping body relative to the second clamping body in a clamping direction to and / or away from the flange surfaces.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a clamping device for a vibration or hammering apparatus suitable for inserting foundation elements into the ground. An example of such a foundation element is a foundation pile for a wind turbine. This type of foundation element can be inserted underground, either on land or at sea. Background Technology

[0002] In practice, vibratory or hammering devices are known for placing foundation piles, on which structures such as wind turbines can be mounted. To vibrate the piles into the ground, so-called vibratory blocks are typically used. This requires proper positioning of the vibratory blocks and the piles. In practice, this also often involves lifting and / or so-called erecting of the foundation elements.

[0003] WO2015 / 190919A2 discloses a vibration device and method for inserting a foundation element into the ground. The document also describes the use of a clamping mechanism that holds the foundation element in place to lift and erect it.

[0004] The positioning of the foundation element before its actual insertion into the ground requires considerable force, especially during the lifting and / or erection process. This can lead to damage to the foundation element, potentially including fatigue damage. Additionally, if the foundation element has a coating (particularly for marine applications), the risk of damage to that coating during lifting and / or erection is significant. This can substantially reduce the lifespan of the foundation element. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to avoid or reduce one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

[0006] This objective is achieved by a clamping device according to the invention, which can be used to insert a flanged base element into a vibratory or hammering device. Such a clamping device includes:

[0007] - Framework;

[0008] - A first clamping body and a second clamping body, the first clamping body and the second clamping body are configured to be able to move relative to each other, and wherein the first clamping body and the second clamping body are provided with corresponding first clamping surfaces and second clamping surfaces, the first clamping surfaces and the second clamping surfaces are configured to engage with corresponding first flange surfaces and second flange surfaces.

[0009] - A positioning driver, used to move a first clamping body relative to a second clamping body in a positioning direction; and

[0010] - A clamping driver for moving a first clamping body relative to a second clamping body in the clamping direction to and / or removing it from the flange surface.

[0011] The clamping device according to the invention is configured to clamp onto a flange of a base element. The base element can relate to various elements, specifically including piles, pipes, cylinders, etc. The base element is preferably provided with a flange that connects to the base element at or near one of its outer ends. Viewed from the insertion position of the base element, the flange has an upper surface and a lower surface.

[0012] The clamping device according to the invention is provided with at least one first clamping body and a second clamping body that engage with the first flange surface and the second flange surface. This engagement can be direct or indirect, using intermediate parts or components.

[0013] A positioning driver is provided to enable the clamping device to engage with one clamping body on the first surface of the flange and with another clamping body on the second surface of the flange. This positioning driver allows the first clamping body to move relative to the second clamping body in a positioning direction. This enables the clamping device to be (partially) positioned below the flange. The positioning driver also allows the clamping body to be moved to a desired position so that clamping movement in the clamping direction can be initiated using the clamping driver. The clamping driver enables the relative movement of the first and second clamping bodies so that the clamping bodies can engage on the corresponding flange surfaces.

[0014] The clamping body engages with the flange along a clamping direction that is substantially transverse to the positioning direction. In the operating position of the base element, the positioning direction substantially corresponds to the horizontal direction, while the clamping direction substantially corresponds to the vertical direction.

[0015] The flanges that hold the base component prevent damage to the base component itself. Furthermore, if the base component has a coating, the risk of damaging the coating is significantly reduced. In addition, the clamping device reduces fatigue damage to the base component. This greatly increases the lifespan of the base component.

[0016] In addition, the clamping device according to the present invention can realize fault protection operation of the base element and fault protection lifting and / or erection.

[0017] In the present preferred embodiment, the positioning actuator and / or clamping actuator comprises one or more hydraulic cylinders. It will be understood that other drive systems are also contemplated according to the present invention.

[0018] In the present preferred embodiment, the positioning actuator includes a sliding cylinder.

[0019] The sliding cylinder enables relative movement between the first and second clamping bodies along the positioning direction. This allows the clamping device to be positioned relative to the flange of the base element; more specifically, proper positioning of the clamping bodies enables the clamping motion to be initiated. Preferably, the clamping bodies slide around the flange or otherwise move to directly clamp the flange between the clamping bodies. This allows the vibration or hammering device to be positioned relative to the base element. Furthermore, it also enables the base element to be lifted and / or erected.

[0020] In a present preferred embodiment of the invention, the clamping driver includes a two-stage driving system, wherein the first stage is capable of providing contact between at least one clamping body and a corresponding flange surface, and the second stage is capable of providing clamping force on the flange.

[0021] The clamping actuator provides actual direct or indirect engagement between the clamping body and the flange (particularly its upper or lower surface). Preferably, the clamping is pre-tensioned and / or clamping forceed for safe operation. As a further effect, this pre-tension and / or clamping force reduces tension variations on the flange. This reduces the risk of damage to the underlying components, including fatigue damage. Additionally, it contributes to fault-protected operation.

[0022] Preferably, in one embodiment of the invention, the two-stage drive system includes a hydraulic cylinder having a first chamber and a second chamber. The first chamber is configured to move a first clamping body relative to a second clamping body in a first stage, and the second chamber is configured to clamp a flange of the base element between the first and second clamping bodies in a second stage and provide pretension. This two-stage drive system achieves a stepped clamping operation, wherein the clamping motion and the pretension are at least partially separated. This preferably allows the design of the first and second chambers to be tailored to their specific tasks. This improves operation and reduces the risk of damage to the base element or its flange.

[0023] Specifically, the first stage has a specific first stroke, which is preferably defined by the housing of the clamping device. This enables effective clamping motion, and the second stage, with a second stroke, is designed to provide optimal preload and the required clamping force.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first and second chambers are activated separately. In this embodiment, the first chamber is responsible for the clamping motion, wherein the clamping bodies move closer to each other and engage the flange. Preferably, this motion prevents (just enough) contact between the clamping bodies and the flange. The first stage is preferably designed to perform a significant portion of the stroke of the clamping bodies relative to the flange (the sub-stroke of the first stage). The second chamber is responsible for providing the actual clamping force and providing the required preload. Preferably, the sub-stroke of the second stage is limited to within a few millimeters. During operation, load variations affect essentially only the pressure in the second chamber. The first chamber maintains essentially its constant pressure, thus maintaining its rigidity. Pressure variations are confined to the second chamber. Therefore, compared to conventional systems, variations are confined to a relatively small volume within the second chamber. This reduces any volume changes due to pressure variations during operation. Experiments show reductions ranging from 46% to 72% compared to conventional systems. This provides greater stability throughout the system. This significantly reduces fatigue damage to the clamping devices and the flange. In the current preferred embodiment, during (vibration / hammering) operation, the pressure in the second chamber decreases while the pressure in the first chamber remains significantly constant. This reduces the risk of the clamping device frame being stretched.

[0025] In the present preferred embodiment, the clamping device further includes a controlled check valve to maintain pressure in the first chamber and / or the second chamber.

[0026] Such a valve is designed to ensure that the clamping device maintains its grip on the flange of the base element during lifting and / or erection, even in the event of, for example, a hydraulic system failure. This further improves the fault protection system and prevents the base element from detaching from the clamping device. Therefore, this increases safety when operating with the base element.

[0027] In the present preferred embodiment, the clamping device further includes a pressure system configured to increase the clamping force in response to a lifting force and / or an erecting force.

[0028] During operation, when the actual external force increases beyond the pretension applied to the clamping device, the operating pressure within the cylinder will decrease. In this embodiment, this decrease is compensated for by providing additional pressure. When the operating force is removed from the system, the increased pressure in the clamping device will be maintained. This is preferably achieved by using one or more controlled check valves or other suitable methods. The advantage of doing so is that the operating pressure is partially provided by lifting and / or erecting and / or inserting the operation. This makes the operation very efficient. Additionally, this allows for the provision of additional pressure, for example, in the event of oil leakage and / or component wear. This further improves operational safety when working with the base components.

[0029] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the clamping device further includes a sliding element configured to connect the clamping device to the base of the vibration or hammering device via a sliding connection.

[0030] Providing a sliding element allows for efficient connection of the clamping device to the base frame. Preferably, this avoids the need for bolts to connect the clamping device to the base frame. This facilitates fault protection systems and operation. Furthermore, the sliding element enables the (rigid) base frame to support the (rigid) fixed portion of the clamping device, which is preferably equipped with a drive cylinder. This ensures relatively stable operating pressure within the cylinder and / or reduces fatigue damage to the clamping device and / or the peg.

[0031] In such embodiments, it is currently preferred that when actual clamping begins, the top clamping surface of the clamping body (as seen in use) is not pushed against the pile flange. Instead, the bottom clamping surface of the clamping body is pushed against and abuts the bottom of the flange. This is initiated by pushing the first and second clamping bodies upward against the base frame. This eliminates the negative impact of the clamping system's flexibility, thereby significantly reducing fatigue damage to the flange.

[0032] Preferably, in one of the presently preferred embodiments, the second (sliding) clamping body of the clamping device is operably connected to the base frame via a sliding element. This provides effective clamping. More preferably, the interaction between one or both clamping bodies and the sliding element is configured such that, upon initiation of the clamping action, at least one clamping body is able to move toward the other clamping body. Such an interaction provides a gap at the clamping end of the clamping body and fixes the other end, thereby allowing for a small rotational movement of the clamping body upon initiation of clamping. This provides effective clamping, particularly on the inner flange extending inward from the sidewall of the base element. This significantly reduces fatigue failure compared to conventional clamping devices. It has also been shown that such a small rotational movement of one of the clamping bodies performs better than the simple (vertical) translational movement of the clamping bodies in alternative embodiments.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment, the clamping device includes a wedge lock associated with at least one clamping body.

[0034] The wedge lock is preferably positioned on the contact surface where the clamping body meets the flange surface. This wedge element ensures a substantially robust contact surface, providing additional protection. It also reduces wear and allows for more precise application of pretension. The wedge lock is preferably used in conjunction with a two-stage system.

[0035] One advantage of using a wedge lock is that it provides a very rigid and self-locking mechanism, which improves clamping efficiency and reduces fatigue damage.

[0036] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the clamping device further includes a pile guide configured to guide the positioning of the clamping device relative to the base element.

[0037] When positioning the clamping device relative to a flanged foundation element, the guide pile device can produce a self-aligning effect. This makes positioning the clamping device relative to the foundation element easier.

[0038] In the current preferred embodiment, one or more guide piles are provided so that the clamping body and the corresponding flange surface can be self-aligned when the clamping device is in the clamping state.

[0039] Preferably, a guide post is arranged to the frame of the clamping device and / or the vibration / hammering device, such that the clamping body remains engaged with the corresponding flange surface when clamped by the clamping device. In the present preferred embodiment, this is achieved by arranging one or more guide posts to maintain contact between the flange and the clamping body, and to limit undesirable sliding movement, even if the clamping body slides relative to the flange in the positioning direction. Preferably, the guide post is arranged such that any retracted clamping body will not become stuck behind the flange when the clamping device is removed from the foundation element. This also contributes to a fail-safe system in case of pressure loss during foundation element lifting and / or erection.

[0040] Alternatively, separate components may be provided, such as a first guide post for self-alignment and a second guide post for limiting sliding motion.

[0041] In one currently preferred embodiment of the invention, the guide pile device is specifically embodied as a guide pile device web structure. This web structure enables the individual guide pile devices to be connected together within the structure. Such a structure contributes to the overall strength and stability of the system.

[0042] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the guide pile device includes a guide pile device contact pad. This contact pad prevents damage to the foundation element during the positioning of the clamping device relative to the foundation element.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the clamping device further includes a pressure relief valve configured to prevent overload during the operation / drive state of the clamping device (where the base element is inserted into the ground).

[0044] The pressure relief valve reduces unnecessary forces acting on the flange and / or base components during operation. In one currently preferred embodiment, this is achieved by reducing the pressure in the second chamber of the two-stage system.

[0045] Optionally, strain gauges and / or pressure sensors can be installed to monitor pretension during the driving process in the driven state. This further improves safety when using the clamping device.

[0046] In another preferred embodiment, the clamping device further includes a sensor or indicator configured to determine the position of the clamping body.

[0047] The sensor or indicator detects the relative position of one or more clamping bodies with respect to the flange. The sensor may include a so-called inductive sensor. Alternatively, the indicator may include a so-called visual indicator. In the present preferred embodiment, a combination of both the sensor and the indicator is used to further enhance the safety of operating the clamping device of the present invention.

[0048] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one clamping body of the clamping device includes a contact pad.

[0049] The contact pad is preferably a soft pad or a flexible guide rail, further reducing the risk of damage to the flange and / or base components. This increases the service life of the base components.

[0050] The present invention further relates to a vibration or hammering device for inserting a foundation element into the ground, the vibration or hammering device including a clamping device in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] The vibration or hammering device provides the same or similar effects and advantages as described in relation to clamping devices.

[0052] In the present preferred embodiment, the vibration or hammering device includes two or more clamping devices, for example, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, or 22 clamping devices for a single base element. It is understood that other numbers of clamping devices are also conceivable with respect to the vibration or hammering device. Optionally, according to a particular embodiment of the invention, a single central clamping device may be provided, which preferably extends around a large portion of the periphery of the base element.

[0053] The present invention also relates to a method for inserting a foundation component into the ground, the method comprising the following steps:

[0054] – Provides base components with flanges;

[0055] – Provide a vibration or hammering device having a clamping device as described in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0056] – Clamping flange; and

[0057] – Insert the foundation element into the ground.

[0058] This method provides the same or similar effects or advantages as described in relation to clamping devices and / or vibration or hammering devices. Preferably, clamping is performed on a flange extending inward from the base element. The (lower) clamping body is positioned by performing a translational movement. In one currently preferred embodiment of the invention, when clamping begins, one of the clamping bodies performs a (small) rotational movement to achieve the actual clamping. It has been shown that such a small rotational movement of one of the clamping bodies performs better than a simple (vertical) translational movement of the clamping body.

[0059] In the present preferred embodiment, the method further includes the step of erecting the foundation element. This allows for efficient operation when inserting the foundation element into the ground. Attached Figure Description

[0060] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention are set forth based on its preferred embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0061] Figure 1 The present invention illustrates a configuration having multiple Figure 7 The vibration device of the clamping device in the embodiment;

[0062] Figure 2A An alternative clamping device according to the invention is shown;

[0063] Figure 2B It shows Figure 2A The situation when the clamping device is about to be inserted;

[0064] Figure 2C It shows Figure 2A and Figure 2B Further details of the clamping device;

[0065] Figure 3 The invention illustrates a plurality of alternative configurations. Figures 2A to 2C The vibration device of the clamping device;

[0066] Figure 4A Details of another alternative clamping device according to the invention are shown;

[0067] Figure 4B It shows Figures 2A to 2C Details of the clamping device;

[0068] Figure 5A A two-stage drive system is disclosed in a presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the clamp is in the open state;

[0069] Figure 5B It shows Figure 5A The system's condition when the clamp is closed;

[0070] Figure 5C It shows that when pretension is applied Figure 5A The system's situation;

[0071] Figure 5D It shows Figure 5A The system experiences reduced pressure during operation;

[0072] Figure 6 It shows Figure 3 The clamping device and the vibrating block in operation; and

[0073] Figure 7 An embodiment of a clamping device with wedge blocks is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0074] Clamping device 2' ( Figure 1 The device 2' is used for a vibrating or hammering device 4, which includes a vibrating block 6 connected to a base frame 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the vibrating block 6 is provided with a lifting mechanism 10 to be able to lift and / or erect. The clamping device 2' is provided with a frame 12, a first clamping body 14, and a second clamping body 16.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the vibration or hammering device 4 is provided with 16 clamping devices 2' ( Figure 1 It is understood that, according to the present invention, other numbers of clamping devices 2 may also be conceived. The top 13 of the frame 12 (preferably using bolts) is connected to the base frame 8.

[0076] Clamping device 2 ( Figures 2A to 2C The clamping device 2 includes a positioning actuator 18 with a cylinder 20, which is connected at one end 22 to a second clamping body 16 via a connector 24. The clamping device 2 has the features described regarding an alternative clamping device 2'. Figure 1 Similar components as shown in the diagram. Cylinder 20 ( Figure 2B It can move along the positioning direction A. This allows the clamping device 2 to be positioned around the flange of the base element, and then (re)position the second clamping body 16 relative to the first clamping body 14 along the positioning direction A.

[0077] In the illustrated alternative embodiment, the clamping device 102 ( Figure 3A vibrating or hammering device 104 is used, which includes a vibrating block 106 connected to a base frame 108. In the illustrated embodiment, clamping device 102 preferably corresponds to clamping device 2. Also in this illustrated embodiment, the vibrating block 106 is provided with a crane 110 to be able to lift and / or erect. Clamping device 102 is provided with a frame 112, a first clamping body 114 and a second clamping body 116. In this embodiment, clamping device 102 is mounted in a recess 111, which is provided in a bracket 113 of the base frame 108. Recess 111 is provided with a mobility space A1 that allows the second clamping body 116 to move relative to the first clamping body 114 in direction A.

[0078] In one of the currently preferred and illustrated embodiments, the clamping device 102' is provided with a sliding element 109 ( Figure 4A In the illustrated embodiment, the sliding element 109 includes a sliding groove 109a and a sliding guide rail 109b. The sliding groove 109a is disposed in the frame 112 of the clamping device 102, and the sliding guide rail 109b is disposed in or on the bracket 113. It is understood that other sliding elements may also be configured according to the present invention. The first clamping body 114 is provided with two clamping pads 115. It is understood that other numbers of pads, such as one, three, four, etc., are also conceivable according to the present invention.

[0079] Clamping device 102' Figure 4A It is provided with the same or similar components as described with respect to clamping devices 2, 2', 102, which are involved in guiding and controlling the movement of the second clamping body 116 relative to the first clamping body 114 in the positioning direction A.

[0080] Clamping device 102' Figure 4A This allows the clamping body 116 to move along directions A and A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the interaction between the clamping body 116 and the sliding elements 109, 109a is configured to allow the clamping body 116 to move toward the clamping body 114 when the clamping action is started / initiated. In this illustrated embodiment, this interaction causes the clamping body 116 to rotate toward the clamping body 114. In this illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by allowing little or no movement C1 along the direction Y (transverse to the plane of the bracket 113 of the base 108) at or near the end 116b of the moving clamping body 116, while providing some gaps C2 so that the clamping body can perform the aforementioned rotational movement along the direction X at the clamping end 116a. Therefore, the clamping body 116 can translate along direction A for positioning and rotate along direction X to clamp the flange in the direction Y. It is understood that other configurations are also contemplated according to the invention.

[0081] Basic Component 26 ( Figure 4B , Figure 6 A flange 28 is provided. Clamping devices 2, 2', 102, 102' are configured to clamp around the flange 28 using first clamping bodies 14, 114 and second clamping bodies 16, 116. In the illustrated embodiment, clamping devices 2, 2', 102, 102' are inserted into an opening 30 at one end of the base element 26 (see also...). Figure 4B , Figure 6 ). Set the pile driver 32 (see also Figure 3 , Figure 4B , Figure 6 The guide clamps 2, 2', 102, 102' are positioned relative to the base element 26. The guide pile 32 may optionally be provided with one or more guide pile contact pads 34 to minimize the risk of damage to the flange 28 and / or the base element 26.

[0082] During operation, the pile guide 32 is arranged in the frames 8 and 108 such that, in the clamping state of the clamping devices 2, 2', 102, and 102', the clamping bodies 14, 16, 114, and 116 remain engaged with the flange surface. This provides additional safety. Optionally, the pile guide 32 is a pile web structure 33 ( Figure 3 The guide pile web structure 33 () Figure 3 This increases the overall stability and strength of frames 8 and 108.

[0083] After being positioned within the opening 30 of the base element 26, the second clamping bodies 16 and 116 move relative to the first clamping bodies 14 and 114 along direction A. Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 2C In the illustrated embodiment, this movement is achieved via cylinder 20. The clamping bodies 14, 16, 114, 116 are preferably provided with individual contact pads 36 (see, for example, see...). Figure 5A The contact pad 36 provides a contact surface between the clamping bodies 14, 16, 114, 116 and the flange 28 of the base element 26. Following a sliding movement along direction A, a clamping movement along clamping direction B is provided by the clamping actuator 38. In the illustrated embodiment, clamping direction B is substantially transverse to the positioning direction A. In the illustrated embodiment, clamping direction B corresponds to direction Y (…). Figure 4A ).

[0084] The clamping driver 38 is illustrated as a two-stage system. Figures 5A to 5DIt is understood that other configurations of the clamping actuator 38 are also conceivable according to the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 38 includes a first block 40, a second block 42, a clamping element 44, and optionally a plurality of contact pads 36. The clamping element 44 is connected to the second block 42 using bolts 46. The guide block 48 is connected to the frames 12, 112 using bolts 50. The clamping actuator 38 with a two-stage system further includes a first chamber 52, a second chamber 54, and a third chamber 56.

[0085] In the open position of clamping device 2 ( Figure 5A The first element 40 and the second element 42 move in an opening direction C, substantially parallel to the clamping direction B. The first chamber 52 and the second chamber 54 are brought under low pressure, while the third chamber 56 is provided with a higher pressure to enable movement in direction C. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressure in the third chamber 56 can be approximately 320 bar during this phase of operation.

[0086] In the closed position ( Figure 5B The first chamber 52 is pressurized, for example, to about 320 bar. The second chamber 54 and the third chamber 56 are provided with low or zero pressure to allow the first element 40 and the second element 42 to move in the closing direction D. In the illustrated embodiment, the movement in direction D continues until the first elements 14, 114 engage with the contact surface 58 of the guide element 48. In this position, the clamping devices 2, 102 are closed.

[0087] To provide clamping force on flange 28, second chamber 54 is subjected to pressure, such as the same pressure of 320 bar. Pressurizing second chamber 54 enables second element 42 to move in a direction D parallel to clamping direction B.

[0088] It is worth noting that, in the illustrated embodiment, by setting a controlled backflow valve 60 controlled by controller 62 (in... Figure 5C (Illustratively illustrated) to maintain pressure within chambers 52, 54, and 56. During this pre-tensioning phase, the base element 26 can be lifted and / or erected.

[0089] It is understood that other working pressures may also be conceived according to the present invention, optionally including different pressures at different stages in the chambers of the clamping devices 2, 102.

[0090] Optionally, at runtime (e.g., see...) Figure 6This can reduce clamping forces to improve the lifespan of flange 28 and / or base element 26. This can be achieved by reducing the pressure in the second chamber 54, for example, to about 50 bar. It is understood that other pressures are also conceivable according to the invention. In this case, the first chamber 52 is maintained at a relatively high pressure, for example, 320 bar, while the third chamber 54 is maintained at a lower pressure. Due to external loads when the base element 26 is inserted into the ground, the actual operating pressure in the second chamber 54 will vary over time, typically between 50 bar and 400 bar.

[0091] Alternatively, an inductive sensor 64 ( Figure 2B , Figure 2C The sensor is configured to confirm the retracted position of the clamping bodies 14, 16, 114, 116. It is understood that, according to the present invention, other sensors or combinations of different sensors may also be conceived for different embodiments of the clamping devices 2, 102.

[0092] Another optional feature is a visual indicator 66 and / or another inductive sensor 68 configured to confirm that the sidewalls of the base element 26 are engaged. Figure 2C Optionally, from one or more sensors ( Figure 2C Upon receiving positive feedback, the clamping actuator 38 is activated. It is understood that, according to different embodiments of the clamping devices 2, 2', 102, 102' of the present invention, other sensors or combinations of different sensors may also be conceivable in conjunction with the actuators 18, 38.

[0093] Additionally, the base frames 8 and 108 may optionally be equipped with a protective element 70, which holds the clamping bodies 14, 16, 114, and 116 in the proper position in the event of pressure loss. Figure 3 The pretension used for clamping force will not be lost.

[0094] Manifold 72 ( Figure 2C A balance valve is provided for positioning cylinder 20 to prevent overload of any vertical force and to hold clamping bodies 14, 16, 114, 116 in relative positions, even in the event of pressure loss. Optionally, a return valve 60 may be provided in manifold 72. Also optionally, additional strain gauges and / or pressure sensors may be provided to monitor clamping forces, for example during operation, thus allowing controller 62 to regulate the pressure in any of the chambers 52, 54, 56 and / or valves (e.g., return valve 60). In the illustrated embodiment, manifold 72 is also provided with a so-called flushing valve to relieve pressure and / or force. It is understood that manifold 72 may be used in different embodiments of clamping devices 2, 102.

[0095] In one embodiment, the clamping device 2' ( Figure 7 An additional wedge 74 is provided. In this embodiment, the first chamber 52' ​​is placed under operating pressure. The wedge 74 moves along the E direction above the cylinder under slightly higher pressure, allowing the wedge 74 to transmit a relatively small force. During vibration / hammering, the pressure can be reduced due to the mechanical fixation of the wedge, while the pretension remains. When the clamping bodies 14', 16' are released from the flange, the pressure in the first chamber 52' ​​and the wedge 74 decreases, reducing the pretension on the wedge 74, thus allowing the wedge 74 to be removed relatively easily. The unlocking chamber 76 is under pressure to achieve cylinder retraction and opening of the clamping device 2'.

[0096] This invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. The sought rights are defined by the following claims, within which many modifications are contemplated. For example, features of different illustrated embodiments may be applied to other embodiments, such as wedges, two-stage systems, rotational movement for a clamping body at the start of clamping, etc.

Claims

1. A clamping device for a vibration or hammering apparatus used to insert a flanged foundation element into the ground, wherein, The clamping device includes: - Framework; - A first clamping body and a second clamping body, the first clamping body and the second clamping body being configured to be able to move relative to each other, wherein the first clamping body and the second clamping body are provided with corresponding first clamping surfaces and second clamping surfaces, the first clamping surfaces and the second clamping surfaces being configured to engage with corresponding first flange surfaces and second flange surfaces. - A positioning driver, the positioning driver being used to move the first clamping body relative to the second clamping body in a positioning direction; - A clamping actuator, the clamping actuator being used to move the first clamping body relative to the second clamping body along a clamping direction to the flange surface and / or remove it from the flange surface; and - A pressure relief valve configured to prevent overload in the driving state when the foundation element is inserted into the ground.

2. The clamping device according to claim 1, wherein, The positioning actuator includes a sliding cylinder.

3. The clamping device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The clamping driver includes a two-stage drive system, wherein a first stage provides contact between at least one of the clamping bodies and a corresponding flange surface, and a second stage provides clamping force on the flange.

4. The clamping device according to claim 3, wherein, The two-stage drive system includes a hydraulic cylinder having a first chamber and a second chamber, the first chamber being configured to move the first clamping body relative to the second clamping body in the first stage, and the second chamber being configured to clamp the flange of the base element between the first clamping body and the second clamping body in the second stage.

5. The clamping device according to claim 4 further includes a controlled check valve to maintain pressure in the first chamber and / or the second chamber.

6. The clamping device of claim 1 further includes a pressure system configured to increase the clamping force in response to a lifting force and / or an erecting force.

7. The clamping device of claim 1 further includes a sliding element configured to connect the clamping device to the base of the vibration or hammering device via a sliding connection.

8. The clamping device according to claim 7, wherein, The sliding connection provides a gap at the clamping end of one of the clamping bodies to allow the clamping body to rotate when clamping begins.

9. The clamping device according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the clamping bodies is provided with a wedge lock.

10. The clamping device of claim 1, further comprising a pile guide configured to guide the positioning of the clamping device relative to the foundation element.

11. The clamping device according to claim 10, wherein, The guide pile is arranged on the frame such that, in the clamping state of the clamping device, the clamping body remains engaged with the corresponding flange surface.

12. The clamping device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The guide pile device includes a guide pile device contact pad.

13. The clamping device of claim 1, further comprising a sensor or indicator configured to determine the position of the clamping body.

14. The clamping device according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6 to 11, 13, wherein, At least one of the clamping bodies includes a contact pad.

15. A vibration or hammering device for inserting a foundation element into the ground, comprising a clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The vibration or hammering device according to claim 15, further comprising two or more clamping devices.

17. A method for inserting a foundation element into the ground, the method comprising the steps of: - Provides base components with flanges; - Provide a vibration or hammering device having a clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 14; - Clamping the flange; and - Insert the aforementioned basic components into the ground.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising the step of erecting the base element.

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