Spring support and workpiece carrier

Abstract

The invention relates to a spring holder having an elastically deformable latching assembly and an elastically deformable clamping assembly; wherein the spring holder can be coupled to a workpiece carrier by means of the latching assembly in a latched manner; and the clamping assembly has an elastically deformable clamping web, which, when the spring holder is coupled to the workpiece carrier, can exert a holding force onto a workpiece via a clamping region in a clamping position, so that the workpiece can be coupled to the spring holder in a frictionally locking manner by means of a clamping face resting on the clamping region and can thereby be fixed in a removable manner on the workpiece carrier.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to a spring support. Furthermore, this invention relates to a workpiece carrier. Background Technology

[0002] Spring supports and workpiece carriers are used to secure workpieces (hereinafter also referred to as substrates), such as separable workpieces, to, within, and / or on the workpiece carrier. Furthermore, spring supports and workpiece carriers are used, for example, to subject the workpiece held therein to treatment, such as surface treatment. Such treatment can include, for example, coating the surface of the workpiece or coating individual surface sections of the workpiece. Coating of the workpiece can be performed, for example, by chemical and / or physical processes, such as chemical vapor deposition, plasma-supported vapor deposition, physical vapor deposition, or a combination of these processes. Other possible treatments in this regard include polishing, painting, grinding, sandblasting, ultrasonic cleaning, or similar processes. Coating can and is typically performed in a coating apparatus.

[0003] The spring support (also referred to as a clamping spring in this context) can be used to hold separated workpieces in a predetermined position on the fastening section or receiving area of ​​the workpiece carrier. The spring support can therefore be used to fasten the workpiece to the workpiece carrier.

[0004] The workpiece carrier is used to support one or more workpieces secured by spring supports. In particular, the workpiece carrier is used to support one or more workpieces secured thereto at one or more predefined locations.

[0005] To position the separated workpieces at, within, and / or above their respective fastening sections, spring supports are used to fix, position, and / or hold the workpieces. After positioning, the workpieces can be removed from the workpiece carrier. The spring supports and workpiece carrier enable workpiece loading and subsequent unloading from the workpiece carrier.

[0006] Here, the spring support is particularly suitable for holding compact, multifaceted workpieces, such as cuboids. However, the spring support can also be designed to receive, hold, and / or fix workpieces with other base shapes, such as spherical, cubic, ellipsoidal, pyramidal, or similar base shapes.

[0007] To ensure the most uniform machining result on the workpiece surface, the workpiece can be connected to the workpiece carrier and / or the fastening section of the workpiece carrier via a spring-loaded force-locking and / or form-locking connection.

[0008] In the prior art, the following spring supports are known, which are materially locked to a workpiece carrier, for example by welding.

[0009] To load or equip a workpiece carrier, the workpiece is typically arranged and clamped between multiple spring supports. For this purpose, the spring supports are fixedly connected to the workpiece carrier. In particular, a material-locked connection is established by welding the spring supports to the workpiece carrier. However, this welding prevents the spring supports from being manually released from the workpiece carrier. Deformation or breakage of a single spring support leads to prolonged repairs and / or replacement of the workpiece carrier, resulting in operational time delays and additional costs. To prevent damage to the spring supports, all spring supports must be covered when cleaning the workpiece carrier, such as by sandblasting. Covering the spring supports also causes time delays and additional costs. Furthermore, in other cleaning processes, such as ultrasonic cleaning, unintentional micro-welded connections may form between the spring supports and the workpiece abutting against them. These micro-welded connections are often difficult to loosen manually and can cause damage to the surfaces of the spring supports and / or the workpiece carrier when unloading it. Sensitive workpieces and the spring supports may be damaged in this way. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved spring support and an improved workpiece carrier, wherein these disadvantages are at least partially reduced.

[0011] This invention is based on the understanding that the special arrangement of the spring support and workpiece carrier components enables the smooth installation or replacement of the spring support and its easy removal from the workpiece carrier. Furthermore, it reduces or completely prevents the formation of unintentional micro-welding between the spring support and the workpiece during ultrasonic cleaning.

[0012] Therefore, the spring bracket according to the invention can be quickly and manually, semi-automatically, or fully automatically placed on and / or released from the workpiece carrier according to the invention. This greatly reduces time-consuming or difficult manual operations. Furthermore, the spring bracket according to the invention, and also the workpiece carrier according to the invention, can be used to equip the workpiece carrier with spring brackets for different workpieces.

[0013] The spring support according to the invention is a spring support having an elastically deformable locking assembly and an elastically deformable clamping assembly, wherein the spring support can be lockedly coupled to a workpiece carrier via the locking assembly. The clamping assembly has elastically deformable clamping tabs, which, when the spring support is coupled to the workpiece carrier, apply a holding force to the workpiece via the clamping area in the clamping position, allowing the workpiece to be frictionally coupled to the spring support by the clamping surfaces abutting against the clamping area, and thereby removably secured to the workpiece carrier.

[0014] "Workpiece carrier" describes a plate-shaped carrier element, such as a base, substrate, or support, designed to hold one or more workpieces in place.

[0015] The term "locking assembly" describes an element of the spring support adapted to induce a locking state between the spring support and the workpiece carrier. Through one or more locking assemblies, the spring support can be releasably or inreleasably locked to the workpiece carrier. The locking assembly can, for example, be designed to construct a form-locking and / or form-locking connection with the workpiece carrier.

[0016] The connection between the locking assembly of the spring holder and the workpiece carrier is preferably designed such that a gap exists, allowing for relative movement between the components. This gap, for example, ranging from one-tenth to five-tenths of a millimeter, allows for the elastically movable suspension or fastening of the spring holder on the workpiece carrier. Vibration decoupling is achieved in the elastically fastened spring holder during vibration, such as during a cleaning process (e.g., ultrasonic cleaning). In other words, the spring holder can thus vibrate at a different frequency and amplitude than the workpiece received within it during vibration. This vibration decoupling reduces or prevents undesirable welds, such as micro-welds, between the spring holder and the workpiece. Furthermore, the gapped connection can be loosened particularly easily. The gapped connection between the locking assembly, the spring holder, and the workpiece carrier can be loosened and / or created particularly smoothly and cost-effectively, manually, semi-automatically, or automatically.

[0017] The connection, especially the interlocking connection, between the spring element and the workpiece carrier through force-transmitting locking and / or form-locking, can save on the joining elements and joining process, such as welds, between the spring support and the workpiece carrier, and the spring element can be easily replaced.

[0018] "Elastically deformable" describes the property of an element and / or material to change its shape under the action of a force and return to its original shape when the force is removed. The spring support can be secured to the workpiece carrier particularly smoothly and manually using an elastically deformable locking assembly. The spring support can be matched to the shape of the workpiece to be held using elastically deformable clamping tabs. For example, the elastically deformable clamping tabs and / or the elastically deformable locking assembly can comprise materials with particularly high elasticity and / or formability, such as austenitic steel. Such austenitic steel is, for example, material 1.4310 (X10CrNi18-8), an austenitic chromium-nickel steel with particularly high formability.

[0019] The term "clamping assembly" describes another element of the spring support, wherein the clamping assembly is adapted to hold a workpiece abutting thereon. The clamping assembly can, for example, be configured with a force-locking connection to a workpiece disposed thereon. Furthermore, the clamping assembly can also, for example, be configured with a friction-locking and / or form-locking connection to a workpiece disposed thereon.

[0020] "Lock-locking coupling" describes a releasable or non-releasable connection between two elements, caused by a locking mechanism. For example, the spring support, its elements, or a section thereof can have a geometry suitable for locking with a workpiece carrier.

[0021] The term "clamping tab" describes the elastic element of the clamping assembly, which is fixedly disposed on a workpiece. A clamping tab is a connecting element or connector between multiple elements. For example, the clamping tab can be disposed between a workpiece and a workpiece carrier. The clamping tab can also include other elements. The clamping tab is particularly used to absorb and / or transmit forces, such as frictional forces and / or holding forces.

[0022] The term "clamping position" describes a location or position of the spring support in which it is locked into coupling with the workpiece carrier. In this clamping position, the workpiece can be secured between the clamping tabs of the respective spring support. In other words, in this clamping position, the workpiece carrier can be loaded with one or more workpieces, and the one or more workpieces can be secured by the spring support(s).

[0023] The term "clamping area" describes a section of the clamping tab that contacts the positioned workpiece. Force is transmitted between the workpiece and the spring support through this clamping area. For example, the clamping area of ​​the clamping tab contacts a clamping surface in or at a location within the fastening area of ​​the workpiece. The clamping area can, for example, have clamping bars configured as edges or pleats. As a supplement or alternative, the clamping area can have spherically arched or concave clamping hoops in its cross-sectional profile. Furthermore, clamping points, such as stamped or coated protrusions, can be arranged on the clamping area. These clamping points facilitate a point-by-point distribution of the resulting holding forces and / or frictional forces.

[0024] "Clamping surface" describes a face, section, or segment of the workpiece surface that is arranged in the clamping area of ​​the workpiece and directly contacts the clamping area of ​​the spring support in the clamping position. The clamping area of ​​the workpiece can be configured, for example, as a retaining tab, a locking protrusion, or a locking tongue and / or designed to form a friction-locking connection with the clamping area of ​​the spring support.

[0025] "Holding force" describes one or more forces required to hold a workpiece in place, wherein the holding force can be, for example, a force caused by static friction. One or more holding forces can occur, for example, between the clamping face and the clamping area in the clamping position of a spring support.

[0026] "Frictional engagement" describes a releasable and load-bearing connection between two elements, which is caused by frictional forces in the contact area of ​​the interconnected elements. For example, a frictionally engaged connection can be created between the clamping surface and the clamping area in the clamped position of a spring support.

[0027] The following embodiments exist in which the locking assembly includes a resilient tab that is coupled to the workpiece carrier by a locking tongue that acts as an engagement hook while passing through an engagement opening in the workpiece carrier.

[0028] The term "elastic" describes the yielding of the tab under pressure load, wherein the tab returns to its original shape when the pressure load is removed. In other words, an elastic tab is a tab capable of elastic deformation and thus absorbing mechanical energy. The elastic tab allows for particularly easy, manual insertion of the spring support into the workpiece carrier. For example, by manually pressing the elastic tabs together, it is particularly easy to guide the elastic tabs through the engagement opening of the workpiece carrier. Furthermore, the engagement opening can, for example, have a smaller dimension than the size of the elastic tab in its unloaded state.

[0029] The locking tongue, which functions as a "hook," is, for example, an element of an interlocking connection or interlocking linkage. An interlocking connection can include elements for easily, form-locking engagement of a member or component, whether releasable or non-releasable. Here, for example, the engaging member, such as the locking tongue, is elastically deformable and then releasably or non-releasablely hooked.

[0030] In one embodiment, the clamping assembly and the locking assembly are respectively arranged on the substrate in a bent manner.

[0031] The substrate is a flat, plate-shaped element of the spring support. The substrate can, for example, have a rectangular or rectangular base. Furthermore, the clamping components and / or locking components can be arranged, for example, on the edges of the substrate. The term "bent" describes the angled arrangement of the clamping components and / or locking components on the substrate. In other words, the clamping components and the substrate form one angle, and the locking components and the substrate form another angle. Through the bent clamping components and / or bent locking components, the spring support can be manufactured particularly easily and / or geometrically matched to a corresponding workpiece carrier.

[0032] The following embodiments exist in which the spring support is integrally formed. The integral spring support is formed from a single spring support molded part. The integrally formed spring support allows for particularly cost-effective and / or rapid manufacturing of the spring support, for example, by punching out the spring support molded part from sheet metal. As a supplementary or alternative, the spring support molded part can also be laser-cut from a suitable shape, such as sheet metal or thin plate.

[0033] In one embodiment, the substrate is rectangularly formed and first and second locking assemblies are constructed on opposite edges, and the clamping assembly is constructed on the edge connecting the opposite edges. "Rectangular" describes the rectangular or rectangular base of the substrate, on which the first and second locking assemblies and the clamping assembly can be arranged. A spring support with at least two locking assemblies can be locked onto the workpiece carrier particularly reliably.

[0034] The following embodiments exist, in which the resilient tab includes a side plate and a locking tongue. The side plate can be, for example, a plate-shaped element with a rectangular base, disposed between the base plate and the locking tongue. The locking tongue can also be, for example, a plate-shaped element with a rectangular base. The side plate and the locking tongue can be arranged at an angle to each other. The side plate and the locking tongue can be integrally formed.

[0035] In some embodiments, the locking end is disposed on a protrusion constructed on the locking tongue. "Locking end" describes an end section of the locking tongue or an end section of a protrusion constructed on the locking tongue. Therefore, the locking end can, for example, have a rectangular or similarly suitable profile designed for insertion into a locking slot and / or locking with the locking slot and / or for insertion into a locking groove and / or for force-locking and / or form-locking and / or contact-locking and / or friction-locking connections with the locking groove. The locking end can be defined by the thickness of the locking tongue. The locking end can be integrally formed with the locking tongue and / or be a section of the locking tongue.

[0036] Alternatively, the locking end can also be arranged on a protrusion constructed on the locking tongue. The protrusion describes a shoulder, projection, or locking protrusion that extends from the locking tongue or its end section. The protrusion enables particularly smooth manual, semi-automatic, or automatic insertion or release of the spring support onto the workpiece carrier. In particular, the protrusion facilitates the introduction of the spring support into the workpiece carrier.

[0037] In one embodiment, the clamping tab includes a clamping segment and a guiding segment, wherein the clamping segment and the guiding segment form a clamping angle, wherein the clamping angle has a size between 60° and 170°, preferably between 115° and 125°. In other words, the clamping angle is formed by the guiding segment and the clamping segment. In the clamping portion or clamping position of the spring bracket, the clamping angle of the resilient clamping tab can be further increased, for example. Furthermore, the clamping angle can also define the size and / or shape of the clamping area, for example.

[0038] The following embodiments exist in which the clamping region includes clamping strips formed as edges and / or pleats, or clamping bands formed as spherically arched tabs. Edges or ridges can be constructed, for example, as a single straight edge or as an edge with a gap. Pleats can be constructed, for example, as shoulders, edges, folds, or grooved transitions. Here, the pleats can be constructed as a single pleat or as a pleat with a gap. Alternatively, the clamping region can have clamping bands constructed as spherically arched tabs. The spherically arched tabs can have concave, convex, or U-shaped cross-sectional profiles.

[0039] In some embodiments, the clamping region has at least one clamping point. The clamping point may be, for example, a spherical, cylindrical, or point-shaped arch or bend extending from the surface of the clamping region. The clamping point may extend vertically or at an angle from the clamping region. The clamping point is suitable for particularly strongly minimizing the contact area between the spring support and the workpiece, which allows particularly advantageous access to exposed workpiece surface sections during workpiece machining. The clamping region may also have multiple clamping points.

[0040] In some embodiments, at least one clamping point is made as a stamped or coated bump. The bump can be configured, for example, as a peak-shaped raised portion or a nodular thickened portion. Multiple clamping points can also be made as stamped and / or coated bumps.

[0041] In some embodiments, the locking assembly and clamping assembly extend from the substrate along a first vertical orientation. The first vertical orientation describes one or more directions extending from a main extending plane within a certain angular range. The main extending plane is defined by at least one longitudinal edge and a wide edge of the substrate. For example, the first vertical orientation can include a first angular range of 0° to 180°. Furthermore, for example, the side plate and the substrate can form a lateral angle, and the substrate and the clamping segment can form a contact angle. Furthermore, for example, the lateral angle and the contact angle can each have an angular magnitude within the first angular range, such that the positions of the side plate and the clamping segment are within the first vertical orientation. The angular magnitude of the lateral angle can be different from or equal to the angular magnitude of the contact angle.

[0042] As an alternative, there are embodiments in which the locking assembly and clamping assembly extend from the substrate along opposite vertical orientations. For example, the clamping tab may extend from the substrate along a first vertical orientation, while the locking assembly extends along a second vertical orientation. The second vertical orientation may, for example, include a second angular range of 180° to 360°. Furthermore, the contact angle may have an angle magnitude within the second angular range. In this position, the clamping tab extends along a vertical orientation opposite to that of the locking assembly.

[0043] The workpiece carrier according to the invention is a workpiece carrier for accommodating multiple workpieces, the workpiece carrier having multiple removable spring supports, at least two clamping areas of the spring supports being arranged such that, in the clamping position, each clamping area of ​​the workpiece facing the corresponding clamping area is held by the clamping area under the elastic deformation of the clamping tab.

[0044] "The clamping area of ​​the workpiece" describes a region or section of the workpiece having the clamping surface that directly contacts the clamping area of ​​the spring bracket in the clamping position.

[0045] "Elastic deformation" describes the reversible shape change of a component caused by the application of external forces. For example, the clamping tab or its segments, such as the clamping area and / or guide segments and / or clamping segments, can elastically deform under the action of external forces.

[0046] However, as an alternative or supplementary solution, the workpiece and / or the fastening area and / or the clamping surface can also be elastically deformable under external force. The elastic deformability of the clamping tabs, for example, allows for the construction of a friction-locking connection between the clamping surface of the workpiece and the clamping area of ​​the spring support. Furthermore, the elastically deformable clamping tabs allow for the tensioning of a shape-stable workpiece. In other words, for example, the workpiece and / or the fastening area and / or the clamping surface can comprise or be formed from materials that are harder and / or less elastic than the material of the clamping tabs and / or the clamping surface. However, as an alternative, the workpiece and / or the fastening area and / or the clamping surface can also comprise or be formed from materials that are softer and / or more elastic than the material of the clamping tabs and / or the clamping surface. Furthermore, as an alternative, the elastic deformability of the workpiece and / or the fastening area and / or the clamping surface, for example, allows for the rigidity of the spring support or for maintaining the same arrangement. The rigid arrangement of the spring support reduces the load on the spring support and reduces wear on the spring support and / or the workpiece bearing.

[0047] In some embodiments, the two clamping regions are arranged facing each other and the fastening region is held between the clamping regions. For example, the two facing clamping regions of a corresponding spring support can be arranged such that they are arranged mirror-symmetrically or staggered on the workpiece carrier or within an opening of the workpiece carrier. The two clamping regions can be arranged in particular to secure the fastening region in the clamping position. Alternatively, the two facing clamping regions can also be arranged to secure multiple fastening regions of the workpiece. The two facing clamping regions in the clamping position of the spring support allow for a particularly uniform distribution of holding force on the respective clamping surfaces.

[0048] There is an embodiment in which the workpiece carrier includes a plurality of engagement openings, wherein the resilient tab of the locking assembly is coupled to the workpiece carrier by a locking tongue that functions as an engagement hook while passing through the engagement opening in the workpiece carrier; and wherein the size of the engagement opening in the workpiece carrier and the size of the resilient tab are coordinated with each other such that the spring support is fixed to the workpiece carrier with at least one degree of freedom of movement transverse to the engagement direction, the resilient tab passing through the engagement opening along the engagement direction.

[0049] The term "joining direction" describes the direction along which the resilient tab passes through the joining opening. The joining direction can extend parallel to the width direction of the workpiece carrier. A direction transverse to the joining direction can extend orthogonally to the joining direction. For example, a direction transverse to the joining direction can extend parallel to the longitudinal direction of the workpiece carrier.

[0050] "Dimensions of the engagement opening" describes the dimensions of the engagement opening, such as the longitudinal edge and / or width edge of the engagement opening. "Dimensions of the resilient tab" describes the dimensions of the resilient tab.

[0051] "Degrees of freedom of motion" describe the independent movement possibilities of a component. For example, the spring support can have at least one degree of freedom of motion transverse to the engagement direction. In other words, after the spring support is installed in the workpiece carrier, the spring support can move in a direction transverse to the engagement direction, i.e., parallel to the longitudinal direction of the workpiece carrier. This movement can be limited by the size of the engagement opening. Alternatively, this movement can also be achieved through a gap. The degree of freedom of motion transverse to the engagement direction not only allows for particularly easy manual installation of the spring support, but also allows for changes and / or adjustments to the restricted portion of the spring support in the clamped position.

[0052] The following implementation exists, wherein the elastic tab includes a side plate and a locking tongue, wherein a locking slot is formed in the region of the engagement opening, the locking slot receiving the locking end of the locking tongue, such that the spring support can be adjusted along a direction of movement freedom transverse to the engagement direction.

[0053] "The area of ​​the joint opening" describes the spatial area extending around the joint opening, for example, a spatial area having an extension range preferably from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm.

[0054] "Locking gap" describes a rectangular or rectangular recess on the workpiece carrier. The locking gap can be constructed as a groove, slot, or opening. The locking gap can form an opening in the workpiece carrier. Alternatively, the locking gap can be constructed as a discontinuous opening. The locking gap can be arranged parallel to the wall of the engagement opening in and / or at locations within the workpiece carrier. The locking gap, for example, can enable a precise or gapped connection between the locking tongue and the workpiece carrier. In particular, the spring support can be arranged on the workpiece carrier in a manner that allows it to move or adjust along the locking gap.

[0055] The following implementation exists, wherein the elastic tab includes a side plate and a locking tongue, wherein a locking groove is arranged on at least one wall of the engagement opening, wherein the locking groove receives the locking end of the locking tongue, such that the spring support can be adjusted along a direction of movement freedom transverse to the engagement direction.

[0056] A "locking groove" describes a slot, opening, or gap constructed within or on the wall of the engagement opening of the workpiece carrier. The locking groove of the engagement opening can, for example, have a rectangular or similar suitable basic shape. The locking groove can enlarge the engagement opening. The locking groove can be designed or constructed accordingly to allow for force-locking and / or form-locking and / or contact-locking and / or friction-locking connections with the locking end of the locking tongue. The locking groove can also be designed to guide and / or fix the locking end. The locking groove allows for receiving, positioning, and fixing the locking end. For example, the connection between the locking groove and the locking end arranged on a protrusion can be designed as an interlocking connection.

[0057] The locking end can extend into and / or contact the locking groove. The locking groove enables, for example, a precise and / or gap-filled connection between the locking tongue and the workpiece carrier. The locking groove can be particularly configured to receive the locking end of the locking tongue such that the spring support can be adjusted along a direction of movement freedom transverse to the engagement direction. The locking groove allows for particularly smooth manual, semi-automatic, or automatic installation and / or removal of the spring support from the workpiece carrier.

[0058] Other aspects and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the dependent claims, drawings, and embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0059] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Herein:

[0060] Figure 1A shows a schematic top view of the upper side of a workpiece carrier equipped with a workpiece according to the prior art and the welded spring bracket.

[0061] Figure 1B shows a schematic top view of the lower side section of the workpiece carrier shown in Figure 1A;

[0062] Figure 2A A schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a spring bracket for securing a workpiece to a workpiece carrier is shown;

[0063] Figure 2B It shows Figure 2A A schematic side view of the spring bracket;

[0064] Figure 2C A schematic top view of one embodiment of the molded spring support according to the invention is shown;

[0065] Figure 2D It shows along in Figure 2C The schematic cross-section of the cutting line AA shown in the figure;

[0066] Figure 3A A schematic embodiment of the clamping assembly's cross-sectional profile is shown;

[0067] Figure 3B Another schematic embodiment of the cross-sectional profile of the clamping assembly is shown;

[0068] Figure 3C Another schematic embodiment of the cross-sectional profile of the clamping assembly is shown;

[0069] Figure 3D Another schematic embodiment of the cross-sectional profile of the clamping assembly is shown;

[0070] Figure 3E The functional principle of the embodiment of the workpiece carrier, workpiece, and spring support in the clamping position is schematically shown in the cross-sectional profile.

[0071] Figure 4A A top view schematically illustrates one embodiment of the workpiece carrier according to the invention, without being loaded;

[0072] Figure 4B schematically shown Figure 3A A magnified view of the region represented by x in the image;

[0073] Figure 5A A schematic perspective view of a surface section of a workpiece carrier with two spring supports is shown;

[0074] Figure 5B It shows Figure 5A A schematic perspective view of the bottom section of the workpiece support component;

[0075] Figure 6 A schematic perspective view showing another embodiment of the spring bracket is shown;

[0076] Figure 7 A schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a spring bracket for securing a workpiece to a workpiece carrier is shown;

[0077] Figure 8 A schematic perspective view of a surface section of a workpiece carrier with two spring supports is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0078] Figure 1A shows a schematic top view of the upper side of a workpiece carrier 200 equipped with workpieces 300 and the welded spring supports 10 according to the prior art. Multiple workpieces 300 or substrates are arranged spaced apart from each other on the workpiece carrier 200. Furthermore, multiple spring supports 10 are arranged on the workpiece carrier 200 or substrate plate. The spring supports 10 are designed to fix the workpieces 300, wherein they are frictionally locked to the clamping surfaces of the corresponding workpieces 300 (not shown). According to the prior art, the spring supports 10 include a base plate, which is fixed to the workpiece carrier 200 by means of weld seam 11 material locking on two parallel wide edges. Furthermore, according to the prior art, the spring supports 10 include clamping assemblies 13. The workpiece carrier 200 includes multiple openings 203, within which the clamping assemblies 13 of the corresponding spring supports 10 are arranged. The spring supports 10 are in a clamped position, in which the workpiece fixed by the spring supports can be processed, cleaned, and / or coated.

[0079] Figure 1B shows a schematic top view of the lower side section of the workpiece carrier 200 shown in Figure 1A. At the opening slit 203 of the workpiece carrier 200, a plurality of clamping assemblies 13 of the workpiece 300, including retaining tabs or fastening areas 302 with clamping surfaces 301 and corresponding spring supports 10, pass through. The clamping assemblies 13 contact the clamping surfaces 301 of the workpiece 300, thereby holding the workpiece 300 in its position.

[0080] Figure 2A A schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a spring holder 100 for securing a workpiece to a workpiece carrier is shown. The spring holder 100 has a base plate 110 in a main extending plane, the base plate having a substantially rectangular or rectangular basic shape, the main extending plane being defined by longitudinal edges 111 and wide edges 112. The spring holder 100 is integrally formed. The spring holder has two elastically deformable locking assemblies 120 and one elastically deformable clamping assembly 130.

[0081] Each of the locking assemblies 120 is arranged bent or at an angle on the base plate 110. The spring support 100 is capable of locking with the workpiece carrier 200 (not shown) via the locking assemblies 120. Each of the locking assemblies 120 has a resilient tab 121 that is coupled to the workpiece carrier via a locking tongue 122 acting as an engagement hook, passing through an engagement opening (not shown) in the workpiece carrier 200. The two locking assemblies 120 are arranged parallel to each other on the edge or wide edge 112. In other words, the first and second locking assemblies 120 are constructed on opposing edges 112, wherein the clamping assembly 130 is constructed on the edge 111 that connects the opposing edges. A basic folded edge 124 extends between the locking assemblies 120 and the base plate 110. The resilient tab 121 and the base plate 110 form a lateral angle α. The lateral angle α can have a size of 100° to 120°, preferably 105° to 115°, and most preferably 110°. The lateral angle α defines the basic folded edge 124.

[0082] The elastic tab 121 includes a side plate 126 and a locking tongue 122. The locking tongue 122 and the side plate 126 are arranged at an angle to each other. A locking end 125 with a rectangular profile is arranged in the end region of the locking tongue 122. The side plate 126 is constructed as a plate-shaped element with a rectangular base. The side plate 126 is arranged between the substrate 110 and the locking tongue 122. The side plate 126 and the locking tongue 122 are arranged at an angle to each other. The side plate 126 and the locking tongue 122 form a reset angle β. The reset angle β can have a value between 30° and 50°, preferably between 35° and 45°, and most preferably 40°. The reset angle β can increase or decrease when pressure is applied to the surface of the locking tongue 122. A lateral folding edge 123 extends between the side plate 126 and the locking tongue 122. The reset angle β defines the lateral folding edge 123.

[0083] The elastically deformable clamping assembly 130 is disposed on the longitudinal edge 111 of the substrate 110. The clamping assembly 130 is disposed on the substrate 110 in a bent or angled manner. The clamping assembly 130 has a clamping tab 131. The clamping tab 131 includes a plate-shaped clamping segment 133, a plate-shaped guide segment 132, and a clamping region 134 disposed between the guide segment 132 and the clamping segment 133. The clamping segment 133 and the substrate 110 form a contact angle γ. In other words, the clamping segment 133 and the substrate 110 are arranged at an angle to each other. The contact angle γ can have a value of 105° to 125°, preferably 110° to 120°, and most preferably 115°. Figure 2AThe contact angle γ shown has a size of 115°. A front folded edge 109 extends between the clamping segment 133 and the substrate 110. The contact angle γ defines the front folded edge 109.

[0084] The clamping region 134 with clamping bar 136 extends between guide segment 132 and clamping segment 133. The clamping bar 136 contacts the clamping surface 301 of the fastening region 302 of workpiece 300 in the clamping position (not shown). The clamping segment 133 and guide segment 132 are arranged at an angle to each other. The clamping segment 133 and guide segment 132 form the clamping angle δ. The clamping angle δ defines the clamping region 134. The clamping angle δ can have a size of 110° to 130°, preferably 115° to 125°, and most preferably 120°. Figure 2A The clamping angle δ shown has a value of 120°.

[0085] Figure 2B Showing from Figure 2A A schematic side view of the spring support 100. In the clamped position (not shown), under pressure and / or holding force, the clamping angle δ can increase and the contact angle γ can decrease. Thus, in the clamped position, a holding force can be applied to the clamping surface 301 of the workpiece 300 through the clamping region 134, allowing the workpiece 300 to be frictionally coupled to the clamping region 134 by the clamping surface 301 abutting against it. The guide segment 132 allows the spring device 100 to be easily inserted into the opening slit 203 of the workpiece carrier 200 (not shown).

[0086] Figure 2C A schematic top view of one embodiment of the molded spring support 100 according to the invention is shown. Dotted lines indicate the rectangular base of the substrate 110.

[0087] Figure 2D It shows along in Figure 2C The schematic cross-section of the cutting line AA is shown. The lateral angle α has a magnitude of 110° in the position shown for the spring bracket 100. The reset angle β has a magnitude of 40° in the position shown for the spring bracket 100.

[0088] Figure 3A , 3B Figures 3C and 3D respectively show schematic embodiments of clamping assemblies 130 with different cross-sectional profiles of clamping tabs 131 with different shapes. Figure 3A A clamping assembly 130 with a clamping tab 131 is shown, the clamping tab having a clamping region 134 with a clamping strip 136 configured as a corrugation. Figure 3BA clamping region 134 with a clamping bar 136 is shown, the clamping bar 136 being configured as an edge. Figure 3C A clamping region 134 with a clamping strip 136 is shown, the clamping strip being constructed as pleats, wherein clamping points 138 are arranged on the clamping region 134. The clamping points 138 can be constructed as stamped or coated protrusions. The protrusions can create a particularly non-slip clamping region 134. Figure 3C In this configuration, the clamping point 138 is constructed as a coated protrusion. Figure 3D A clamping assembly 130 with a clamping tab 131 is shown, the clamping tab having a clamping hoop 137 in a clamping region 134, the clamping hoop being configured as a spherically arched tab.

[0089] Figure 3E The functional principle of the workpiece carrier 200, workpiece 300, and two spring supports 100 in the clamping position is schematically illustrated in the cross-sectional profile. The clamping assembly 130 passes through the opening slit 203 of the workpiece carrier 200, wherein the clamping bar 136 of the clamping region 134, which is formed as a pleat, contacts the clamping surface 301 facing the fastening section 302 of the workpiece 300, thereby fixing and holding the fastening region 302 under the elastic deformation of the clamping tab 131.

[0090] Figure 4AA schematic top view of one embodiment of an unloaded workpiece carrier 200 is shown. The workpiece carrier 200 has five parallel, side-by-side fastening sections 204 for securing the workpiece 300, wherein the side-by-side fastening sections 204 define the longitudinal direction L of the workpiece carrier. The width direction B of the workpiece carrier is defined by the width of the fastening sections 204. Each fastening section 204 has three openings 203 extending parallel to each other, wherein these openings differ from each other in length and shape. A plurality of spaced-apart pairs consisting of engagement openings 201 are arranged adjacent to two of the openings 203. Each of the engagement openings 201 allows a locking assembly 120 to pass through and serves as a support for a resilient tab 121 in the clamped position. The resilient tab 121 of the locking assembly 120 can be coupled to the workpiece carrier 200 via a locking tongue 122 acting as an engagement hook, while passing through the engagement opening 201 in the workpiece carrier 200. The dimensions of the engagement opening 201 in the workpiece carrier 200 and the dimensions of the resilient tab 121 are coordinated such that the spring support 100 is fixed to the workpiece carrier 200 with at least one degree of freedom of movement transverse to the engagement direction, the resilient tab 121 passing through the engagement opening 201 along the engagement direction. In other words, the spring support 100 can be adjusted along the longitudinal direction L parallel to the workpiece carrier by means of the existing gap.

[0091] The engagement opening 201 is arranged such that, in the clamping position, each of the two spring devices 100 has a clamping region 134 facing each other. In other words, in the clamping position within the opening slit 203, a single fastening region 302 of the workpiece 300 can be arranged between the two mutually facing clamping regions 134 of the two spring devices 100 and held on the abutting clamping surface 301 by the two mutually facing clamping regions 134.

[0092] Figure 4B The illustration shows the source Figure 3AAn enlarged view of the area indicated by X. The engagement opening 201 has a basic rectangular shape, wherein the longitudinal edge 205 of the basic shape extends along a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the wide edge 206 of the engagement opening extends along a direction parallel to the width direction B. In the region of the engagement opening 201, a rectangular locking slot 202 is arranged within the extension interval 209. The wide edge 207 of the locking slot is aligned with the wide edge 206 of the engagement opening. In other words, the wide edge 206 of the engagement opening and the wide edge 207 of the locking slot are in a straight line along a direction parallel to the width direction B. The locking slot 202 is designed to receive the locking end 125 of the locking tongue 122, such that the spring support 100 can be adjusted along a direction of motion freedom transverse to the engagement direction of the spring support 100.

[0093] Figure 5A A schematic perspective view of a surface section of a workpiece carrier 200 having two spring supports 100 is shown. The spring supports 100 are positioned within receiving engagement openings 201 at two side regions of an opening slit 203. The clamping regions 134 of the two spring supports are arranged facing each other (not shown). The locking end 125 of the locking tongue 122 is arranged to lock together with the locking slit 202, wherein the locking end 125 is disposed within the locking slit 202.

[0094] Figure 5B Showing from Figure 5A A schematic perspective view of the bottom section of the workpiece carrier 200. The two spring supports 100 are lockingly coupled to the workpiece carrier 200. The corresponding clamping areas 134 of the spring supports 100 are arranged facing each other. The corresponding locking ends 125 of the locking tongues 122 are respectively embedded in the locking gaps 202, forming a form-locking and / or force-locking connection.

[0095] Figure 6A schematic perspective view of another embodiment of the spring support is shown. The spring support 100 has a base plate 110 having a basic rectangular shape, on which a clamping assembly 130 with resilient clamping tabs 131 is arranged. In the clamped position (not shown), when the spring support 100 is coupled to a workpiece carrier, a holding force is applied to the workpiece through the clamping region 134. The workpiece (not shown) can be frictionally coupled to the spring support by abutting against the clamping surface on the clamping region 134 and thereby can be removably fixed to the workpiece carrier (not shown). The spring support has a resiliently deformable locking assembly 120. The locking assembly 120 can be lockingly coupled to the workpiece carrier. The locking assembly 120 is integrally constructed with the base plate 110. The base plate 110 has three interconnected cut edges 113. The three cut edges 113 form a U-shaped cut. The locking assembly 120 disengages from the base plate 110 along the cut and is arranged at an angle relative to the base plate 110. In other words, the locking assembly 120 is formed from a section of the base plate 110. The locking assembly 120 has a resilient tab 121 that can couple with the workpiece carrier via a locking tongue 122 acting as an engagement hook, while passing through an engagement opening in the workpiece carrier. The clamping assembly 130 and the locking assembly 120 are respectively arranged bent on the base plate 110. The spring support 100 is integrally formed.

[0096] Figure 7 A schematic perspective view of another embodiment of the spring bracket for securing a workpiece to a workpiece carrier is shown. The spring bracket 100 has a locking tongue 122 with a locking end 125, wherein the locking end 125 is disposed on a protrusion 126 formed on the locking tongue. The locking end 125 is configured as the end section of the protrusion 126 formed on the locking tongue 122. The locking end 125 has a rectangular cross-sectional profile designed to be inserted into and / or connected to a locking groove (not shown). The locking end 125, the protrusion 126, and the locking tongue 122 are integrally formed. The protrusion 126 extends perpendicularly from the edge of the locking tongue 122.

[0097] Figure 8 It shows two according to Figure 7A schematic perspective view of a surface section of the workpiece carrier 200 of the spring support. The engagement opening 201 of the workpiece carrier 200 each has a locking groove 208. The locking grooves 208 are respectively arranged on the wall of the engagement opening 201. The locking grooves 208 here have a basic rectangular shape. The two spring supports 100 are arranged opposite each other within the opening slit 203 in the clamped position. Each locking groove 208 receives the locking end 125 of the locking tongue 122. The spring support 100 can be adjusted along the direction of movement freedom transverse to the engagement direction by means of the gap (not shown) between the locking end 125 and the locking groove 208. The locking end 125 and the protrusion 126 extend at or within the locking groove 208.

[0098] The embodiments explained above are implementations of the present invention. In these embodiments, the components described in the embodiments each represent individual features of the present invention that can be viewed independently of each other. These features also independently improve the present invention and can thus be considered as part of the present invention individually or in combinations different from the combinations shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by other features among the features already described in the present invention.

[0099] Other features and embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art within the scope of this disclosure and the claims.

[0100] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0101] 10. Spring support according to the prior art

[0102] 13 Clamping assembly of spring bracket according to the prior art

[0103] 100 Spring Bracket

[0104] 109 Front folded edge

[0105] 110 substrate

[0106] 111 Longitudinal edge

[0107] 112 Edges

[0108] 120 Card Lock Assembly

[0109] 121 Flexible splice

[0110] 122 Locking Tongue Plate

[0111] 123 Lateral folded edge

[0112] 126 Side plate

[0113] 130 clamping assembly

[0114] 131 Clamping tab

[0115] 132 Guided Segmentation

[0116] 133 Clamping Segments

[0117] 134 Clamping Area

[0118] 136 Clamping bar

[0119] 138 clamping point

[0120] 200 Workpiece Support

[0121] 201 Joint opening

[0122] 203 Opening gap

[0123] 204 Fastening Section

[0124] 300 workpieces

[0125] 301 Clamping Surface

[0126] 302 Fastening Area

Claims

1. A spring bracket (100) having an elastically deformable locking assembly (120) and an elastically deformable clamping assembly (130). The spring bracket (100) is lockably coupled to the workpiece carrier (200) via the locking assembly (120); and The clamping assembly (130) has a clamping tab (131) that can elastically deform. When the spring support (100) is coupled to the workpiece carrier (200), in the clamping position, a holding force can be applied to the workpiece (300) via the clamping area (134) through the clamping tab, so that the workpiece (300) can be coupled to the spring support (100) in a force-locking manner by abutting against the clamping surface (301) on the clamping area (134) and thereby be fixed to the workpiece carrier (200) in a removable manner. The clamping assembly (130) and the locking assembly (120) are respectively bent and arranged on the base plate (110); and the spring bracket (100) is integrally formed. The substrate (110) is rectangularly formed and first and second locking assemblies are constructed on opposite edges (112), and the clamping assembly (130) is constructed on the edge (111) that connects the opposite edges. wherein The clamping assembly (130) passes through the opening (203) of the workpiece carrier (200).

2. The spring support (100) according to claim 1, wherein the locking assembly (120) includes a resilient tab (121) that is capable of coupling with the workpiece carrier (200) by means of a locking tongue (122) acting as an engagement hook, while passing through the engagement opening (201) in the workpiece carrier (200).

3. The spring bracket (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the elastic tab (121) comprises a side plate (126) and a locking tongue (122).

4. The spring support (100) according to claim 3, wherein a locking end (125) is arranged on a protrusion constructed on the locking tongue (122).

5. The spring bracket (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the clamping tab (131) includes a clamping segment (133) and a guiding segment (132), wherein the clamping segment (133) and the guiding segment (132) form a clamping angle (δ), wherein the clamping angle (δ) has a size between 70° and 170°.

6. The spring bracket (100) according to claim 5, wherein the clamping angle (δ) has a size between 115° and 125°.

7. The spring cradle (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the clamping region (134) further comprises: Clamping strip (136), which is formed as an edge and / or as a pleat; or clamping hoop (137), which is formed as a spherically arched joint.

8. The spring bracket (100) according to claim 7, wherein the clamping region (134) has at least one clamping point (138).

9. The spring bracket (100) according to claim 8, wherein the at least one clamping point (138) is made as a stamped or coated protrusion.

10. A workpiece carrier (200) for receiving a plurality of workpieces (300), the workpiece carrier having a plurality of removable spring supports (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least two clamping regions (134) of the plurality of spring supports are arranged such that the fastening regions (302) of the workpieces (300) are held in the clamping position by the clamping regions (134) with clamping surfaces (301) facing the respective clamping regions (134) in the event of elastic deformation of the clamping tabs (131).

11. The workpiece carrier (200) according to claim 10, wherein two clamping regions (134) are arranged facing each other, and the fastening region (302) is held between the clamping regions (134).

12. The workpiece carrier (200) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the workpiece carrier includes a plurality of engagement openings (201), wherein the resilient tab (121) of the locking assembly (120) is coupled to the workpiece carrier (200) via a locking tongue (122) acting as an engagement hook while passing through the engagement opening (201) in the workpiece carrier (200); wherein the dimensions of the engagement opening (201) in the workpiece carrier (200) and the dimensions of the resilient tab (121) are coordinated to each other such that the spring support (100) is fixed to the workpiece carrier (200) with at least one degree of freedom of movement transverse to the engagement direction (B), the resilient tab (121) passing through the engagement opening (201) along the engagement direction.

13. The workpiece carrier (200) according to claim 12, wherein the elastic tab (121) comprises a side plate (126) and a locking tongue (122), wherein a locking slot (202) is formed in the region of the engagement opening (201), the locking slot receiving the locking end (125) of the locking tongue (122), such that the spring support (100) can be adjusted along the direction of the degree of freedom of movement transverse to the engagement direction.

14. The workpiece carrier (200) according to claim 12, wherein the elastic tab (121) comprises a side plate (126) and a locking tongue (122), wherein a locking groove (208) is arranged on at least one wall of the engagement opening (201); wherein the locking groove (208) receives the locking end (125) of the locking tongue (122) such that the spring support (100) can be adjusted along the direction of the degree of freedom of movement transverse to the engagement direction.

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