Circular support

Abstract

An annular support includes: an annular tab including first and second retaining elements; first and second fixed supports for supporting the annular tab about a pivot axis; each fixed support having a retaining support portion for the retaining element; the first retaining element having a retaining nose; and the first fixed support including a guide groove corresponding to the retaining nose of the first retaining element, such that in an inserted position of the annular tab, the first retaining element can be inserted into the retaining support portion, thereby allowing the annular tab to be brought into an insertion position in the retaining support portion; in the insertion position, the annular tab can be pivoted about the pivot axis and transferred to an installation position; when transferring the annular tab from the insertion position to the installation position, the retaining nose engages with the guide groove of the first fixed support, such that the retaining nose can be guided in the guide groove, thereby engaging the guide groove with the retaining nose to prevent the annular tab from moving along the pivot axis in the installation position of the annular tab.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an annular support for connecting, lifting, and / or securing loads, wherein the annular support comprises: - An annular tab for fixing a load, the annular tab including a first retaining element and a second retaining element extending from the annular tab in opposite directions along a common pivot axis, and - A first fixed support and a second fixed support for supporting an annular piece about a pivot axis, wherein the fixed support can be fixed to an article, and wherein each fixed support has a retaining support portion for a retaining element for the annular piece that can pivot about a pivot axis.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for installing a ring-shaped support according to the invention. Background Technology

[0003] In the field of lifting technology, weldable joints, particularly so-called ring supports, are critical components for the safe lifting and transport of heavy loads. Existing technologies include various solutions in which the ring is supported within a retaining device to ensure a degree of mobility. However, known systems have several drawbacks. Therefore, many designs require a separate locking element to hold the ring in place, leading to increased installation costs and the need for additional components. This not only increases manufacturing costs but also introduces potential weak points in the form of wear or gaps within the locking mechanism. Furthermore, conventional locking systems can fail or loosen under high stress, compromising the safety of the application.

[0004] A ring support for connecting, lifting, and / or securing loads is known from DE 102009040524 A1. This ring support includes an annular tab and a fixed support. However, installing the annular tab into the fixed support requires a separate securing element or additional locking elements (retaining pins that can be inserted into separately molded partial volumes) to prevent axial movement of the annular tab along the pivot axis. This increases installation costs and makes operation difficult. Furthermore, there is a risk that these individual locking elements may loosen or become lost over time, compromising operational safety. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an annular support that enables simplified installation without requiring separate locking elements or additional fasteners. Furthermore, the axial fixation of the annular tab within the fixed support should be ensured in a simple and reliable manner.

[0006] The present invention achieves its objective by comprising a first retaining element of an annular tab having a retaining nose extending radially from the first retaining element relative to a pivot axis, wherein a first fixing support includes a guide groove corresponding to the retaining nose of the first retaining element such that, in the insertion position of the annular tab, the first retaining element can be inserted into the retaining support portion of the first fixing support with the retaining nose, thereby allowing the annular tab to be brought into an insertion position in the retaining support portion, wherein, in the insertion position of the annular tab in the retaining support portion, the annular tab can be transferred to an installation position by pivoting the annular tab about the pivot axis, wherein, as the annular tab is transferred from the insertion position to the installation position, the retaining nose engages with the guide groove of the first fixing support such that the retaining nose can be guided in the guide groove, thereby engaging the guide groove with the retaining nose to prevent the annular tab from moving along the pivot axis in the installation position of the annular tab.

[0007] The annular support according to the invention comprises annular tabs with retaining elements extending along a common pivot axis. A retaining nose on at least one retaining element engages in a corresponding guide groove of the fixed support. This enables the annular tabs to be installed in the insertion position and subsequently secured in the installation position by a simple pivoting movement.

[0008] Thus, the annular tab is automatically secured to prevent axial movement along the pivot axis without the need for additional fixing elements. This structure simplifies installation, reduces installation costs, and improves operational safety because it eliminates the need for separate locking elements that could loosen or be lost.

[0009] By eliminating separate fixing or locking elements for axially securing the annular connector, the structure is simplified and installation costs are reduced. The use of retaining noses and guide slots enables particularly time-saving and uncomplicated installation. Furthermore, the integrated locking function improves operational safety, as there are no loose parts that could come loose or be lost. This also results in less maintenance, as additional components do not need to be replaced or readjusted.

[0010] Another advantage of maintaining the nose-like structure is that the first fixing support can be fully secured, particularly welded, to the article before the annular tab and the second fixing support are fixed. Therefore, when welding the fixing support, the welder can optimally access the welding area without any interference from the annular tab. This also facilitates cleaning the welded area at the first fixing support.

[0011] The objects to which ring bearings are fixed can have various shapes and uses. This particularly includes steel frames or structures, as used in the construction industry or in machinery manufacturing, to reliably lift or protect heavy loads. Similarly, they can be transport and lifting devices, such as containers, crane frames, or installation platforms, where ring bearings are installed to lift and secure loads. Other applications include ship hulls or offshore structures on which ring bearings are used to secure loads, and machine housings or frames for safe handling in industrial facilities. Furthermore, fixing to vehicles or trailers is suitable for protecting heavy loads during transport. Concrete bases or concrete carriers can also be used as fixing bases, for example, as temporary fulcrums in the construction industry. Finally, ring bearings can also be attached to crane beams or load receiving devices to ensure safe load reception in lifting facilities or other lifting systems. Depending on the application, the objects can be made of different materials, with the fixing methods (e.g., by welding or screws) adapted accordingly.

[0012] It can be configured such that the first and / or second fixing supports can be secured to the article by welding. This ensures improved stability and durability of the connection because welded fixing supports do not require any additional connecting elements, such as screws or pins, that might loosen over time.

[0013] The second retaining element can be configured to include a retaining nose that extends radially from the second retaining element relative to the pivot axis. This allows for additional axial fixation, ensuring a more robust hold on the annular tab, and symmetrical installation, which facilitates operation.

[0014] The second fixed support can be configured to have a guide groove corresponding to the retaining nose of the second retaining element. This enables improved load distribution and additional guidance of the annular tab, which increases the system's load capacity and improves safety.

[0015] The guide groove of the first fixed support can be configured such that it has an engagement section and a locking section, wherein the width of the guide groove gradually decreases from the engagement section toward the locking section, and the width of the locking section corresponds to the retaining nose of the first retaining element, such that when the annular piece is in the mounting position, the retaining nose of the first retaining element, engaged in the locking section, works with the locking section to fix the annular piece and prevent movement along the pivot axis. The width of the guide groove in the locking section corresponds to the width of the retaining nose, so that there is no gap or a very small gap when viewed along the pivot axis, thereby generally preventing the annular piece from moving along the pivot axis when it is in the mounting position in the first fixed support.

[0016] The guide groove of the second fixed support can be configured to include an engagement section and a locking section, the width of which gradually decreases from the engagement section to the locking section. The width of the locking section corresponds to the retaining nose of the second retaining element, such that when the annular piece is in the installation position, the retaining nose of the second retaining element, when engaged in the locking section, works together with the locking section to fix the annular piece to prevent movement along the pivot axis.

[0017] The annular tab can be configured to have at least one spacer retaining element, which the annular tab rests against in the mounting position, thus preventing the retaining element from resting against the surface of the article. Another advantage is the construction of the annular tab with a spacer protrusion, which ensures the retaining nose is reliably positioned in the receiving groove and does not tilt in the guide groove during pivoting about the pivot axis as the annular tab is transferred to the mounting position. Simultaneously, the spacer protrusion maximally lifts the annular tab from the load in the mounting position, thereby also ensuring reliable fixation of the second retaining element near the second retaining element. Without the spacer protrusion, the retaining element of the annular tab would rest against the surface of the article, and the annular support would be fixed to that surface.

[0018] It can be configured such that the annular connecting piece and the fixed support are made of metal.

[0019] The above objective is also achieved by a method for installing the annular support according to the invention, wherein the method comprises the following steps in chronological order: a) Secure the first fixed support to the item; b) Position the annular connector into the insertion position; c) Insert the annular connector into the insertion position of the annular connector in the retaining support part of the first fixed support; d) By pivoting the annular piece about the pivot axis, the annular piece is transferred from the insertion position to the mounting position in the retaining support of the first fixed support, so that the annular piece is fixed to prevent movement along the pivot axis in the first fixed support; e) Apply the second fixed support to the second retaining element of the annular tab, such that the second retaining element is positioned in the retaining support portion of the second fixed support; f) Secure the second fixed support to the item.

[0020] After welding the first fixed support, the annular tab is introduced downward into the first fixed support, for example, using a retaining nose. By tilting or pivoting the annular tab, the retaining nose passes into the guide groove of the first fixed support and is axially fixed. Subsequently, the second fixed support is placed on the retaining nose of the annular tab, which is now, for example, above, thereby also being axially fixed and able to be tightened.

[0021] It can be configured such that, in step a), the first fixed support is fixed to the item by welding.

[0022] It can be configured such that, in step f), the second fixed support is fixed to the item by welding. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The invention will now be described in detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. Herein are shown: Figure 1A An exemplary annular support is shown in a front view, including an annular tab with first and second retaining elements, the annular tab being pivotally supported in first and second fixed supports by means of the first and second retaining elements about a pivot axis; Figure 1B An exemplary annular support of Figure 1 is shown in a side view; Figure 2 An exemplary annular support in FIG1 is shown in an exploded view, in which first and second retaining elements and retaining noses respectively disposed thereon can be seen; Figure 3A The first or second fixed support is shown in the first view; Figure 3B It shows along Figure 3A The first or second fixed support of the section AA, wherein guide grooves of different widths can be seen, wherein the guide grooves correspond to the retaining nose of the retaining element respectively; Figure 3C A view of the first or second fixed support from below is shown; Figure 4A An exemplary annular support of Figure 1 is shown, wherein the annular tab is in the insertion position in the first fixed support; Figure 4B The annular tab is shown in its intermediate position before reaching the installation location, wherein the nose is held in engagement section of the guide groove; Figure 4C The annular tab in the installed position is shown, wherein the nose is held engaged in the locking section of the guide groove, and thus the annular tab is prevented from moving along the pivot axis; Figure 5A The first fixing support fixed to the article and the annular connector at the insertion position are shown; Figures 5B-5C The annular tab at the insertion position in the first fixed support is shown; Figure 5D The annular contact piece in its mounting position is shown; and Figure 5E An assembled annular support is shown, wherein a second fixed support is attached to the annular tab and fixed to the article. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Figure 1 shows an exemplary annular support 10 for connecting, lifting and / or binding loads in a front view, wherein the annular support 10 includes an annular tab 100 for securing the load. Figure 2 The annular support 10 of Figure 1 is shown in a side view.

[0025] The annular tab 100 has a first retaining element 100a and a second retaining element 100b, which extend from the annular tab 100 in opposite directions along a common pivot axis SA, wherein the annular tab 100 and the retaining elements 100a and 100b are integrally made of a single material.

[0026] Furthermore, the annular support 10 includes a first fixed support 200a and a second fixed support 200b for supporting the annular tab 100 about a pivot axis SA, wherein the fixed supports 200a and 200b can be fixed to the article 50, particularly by means of welding. The fixed supports 200a and 200b each have retaining support portions 300a and 300b for retaining elements 100a and 100b of the annular tab 100 that are pivotable about the pivot axis SA. The retaining support portions 300a and 300b are located in… Figure 2 or Figures 3A to 3C It is more clearly visible in the image. In the example shown, the annular tab 100 and the fixed supports 200a and 200b are made of metal.

[0027] For example in Figure 2 As can be seen, the first retaining element 100a of the annular tab 100 has a retaining nose 110a that extends radially from the first retaining element 100a relative to the pivot axis SA. In the example shown, the second retaining element 100b also has a retaining nose 110b that extends radially from the second retaining element 100b relative to the pivot axis SA.

[0028] Furthermore, the first fixed support 200a includes a guide groove 210a, which corresponds to the retaining nose 110a of the first retaining element 100a in the following manner: in the introduction position ES of the annular tab 100 (the introduction position ES is, for example, in...) Figure 5A (As shown in the diagram), the first retaining element 100a can be introduced into the retaining support portion 300a of the first fixed support 200a with the retaining nose 110a, such that the annular tab 100 can be brought to the insertion position EP in the retaining support portion 300a, wherein, in the insertion position EP of the annular tab 100 (as shown in the diagram), Figure 5B and Figure 5C(As shown separately), the annular tab 100 can be switched from the holding support 300a to the mounting position MP by pivoting the annular tab 100 about the pivot axis SA (as shown in...). Figure 5D (What can be seen in the middle).

[0029] When the annular tab 100 is transferred from the insertion position EP to the mounting position MP, the retaining nose 110a engages in the guide groove 210a of the first fixed support 200a, such that the retaining nose 110a can be guided in the guide groove 210a, and the guide groove 210a combines with the retaining nose 110a to prevent the annular tab 100 from moving along the pivot axis SA in the mounting position MP.

[0030] The retaining nose 110b of the second retaining element 100b is based on the same principle as the second fixed support 200b, which also has a guide groove 210b.

[0031] exist Figures 3A to 3C In the diagram, the first fixed support 200a is visible, and the second fixed support 200b has the same structure as the first fixed support. Figures 3A to 3C As can also be seen, the structure shown or the embodiments described below apply to the second fixed support 200b. The guide groove 210a of the first fixed support 100a has an engagement section 220a and a locking section 230a, wherein the widths BR1, BR2 of the guide groove 210a taper from the engagement section 220a toward the locking section 230a, wherein the width BR1 of the locking section 230a corresponds to the retaining nose 110a of the first retaining element 100a, such that when the annular tab 100 is in the mounting position MP, the retaining nose 110a of the first retaining element 100a engages with the locking section 230a, thereby preventing the annular tab 100 from moving along the pivot axis SA.

[0032] As already stated, the second fixed support 200b has the same structure as the first fixed support 200a. However, for completeness, the guide groove 210b of the second fixed support 200b includes an engagement section 220b and a locking section 230b, wherein the widths BR1 and BR2 of the guide groove 210b taper from the engagement section 220b toward the locking section 230b, wherein the width BR1 of the locking section 230b corresponds to the retaining nose 110b of the second retaining element 100b, such that when the annular tab 100 is in the mounting position MP, the retaining nose 110b of the second retaining element 100b, when engaged in the locking section 230b, works together with the locking section 230b to prevent the annular tab 100 from moving along the pivot axis SA.

[0033] In addition, the annular tab 100 may have at least one spacer retaining element, which is placed on the spacer retaining element in the mounting position MP, wherein, this is not shown in the figures.

[0034] Figures 4A to 4C The transition of the annular contact 100 from the insertion position EP to the mounting position MP is shown. The annular contact 100 is shown here in dashed lines. Figure 4A The insertion position EP of the annular tab 100 can be seen, in which the first retaining element 100a, together with the retaining nose 110a disposed thereon, is inserted into the retaining support portion 300a. The annular tab 100 must be brought into the insertion position beforehand, in which the retaining nose 110a points downward, so that the first retaining element 100a can be fully introduced into the retaining support portion 300a, and thus the annular tab 100 can be brought into the insertion position EP.

[0035] By pivoting the annular tab 100 around the pivot axis SA (counterclockwise in the example shown), the nose 110a remains engaged in the engagement section 220a of the guide groove 210a and is guided by the guide groove 210a during continued pivoting, as in Figure 4B As shown in the diagram.

[0036] As the annular tab 100 continues to pivot toward the mounting position MP, the nose 110a remains engaged in the locking section 230a of the guide groove 210a, thereby securing the annular tab 100 to prevent movement along the pivot axis, as in Figure 4C As shown in the diagram. Since the width BR1 of the locking section 230a of the guide groove 210a substantially corresponds to the width of the retaining nose 110a, there is no gap for retaining the nose 110a to move along the pivot axis SA, thus achieving this fixation.

[0037] The same principle applies to the retaining nose 110b of the second retaining element 100b and the second fixing support 200b, which also has a guide groove 210b.

[0038] exist Figures 5A to 5E The document also shows a method for installing the annular support 10 as described above, wherein, in the first step a), the first fixed support 200a is fixed to the article 50, in particular by welding.

[0039] As in the next step b), bring the annular patch 100 to the insertion position ES, as in Figure 5A As shown in the diagram. Subsequently, in step c), the annular tab 100 is inserted into the insertion position EP of the annular tab 100 in the retaining support portion 300a of the first fixed support 200a, as shown in the diagram. Figure 5B As shown in the diagram. Subsequently, in step d), the annular tab 100 pivots about the pivot axis SA, as shown in... Figure 5C As indicated by the arrow, the annular contact 100 is moved from the insertion position EP to the mounting position MP in the retaining support portion 300a of the first fixed support 200a, such that when the annular contact 100 reaches the mounting position, as in Figure 5D As shown, the annular tab 100 is fixed to prevent movement along the pivot axis SA in the first fixed support 200a. Here, the annular tab 100 performs a rotation of approximately 180° about the pivot axis SA.

[0040] In the next step e), the second fixing support 200b is applied to the second retaining element 100b of the annular tab 100, such that the second retaining element 100b is positioned in the retaining support portion 300b of the second fixing support 200b, as follows. Figure 5E As shown in the diagram. The second fixed support 200b is attached here by being applied from above to the annular tab 100.

[0041] As a next step (f), the second fixed support 200b is fixed to the article 50, especially by means of welding.

[0042] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures Circular support 10 Item 50 100 ring-shaped connector First holding element 100a Second holding element 100b Keep nose 110a, 110b First fixed support 200a Second fixed support 200b Guide slots 210a, 210b Joint sections 220a and 220b Locking sections 230a and 230b Maintain support parts 300a, 300b The widths of the guide grooves BR1 and BR2 Introducing Location ES Insertion position EP Installation location MP Pivot axis SA

Claims

1. A ring-shaped support (10) for connecting, lifting, and / or binding loads, wherein, The annular support (10) includes: - An annular tab (100) for fixing the load, the annular tab (100) including a first retaining element (100a) and a second retaining element (100b), the first retaining element and the second retaining element extending from the annular tab (100) in opposite directions along a common pivot axis (SA), and - A first fixed support (200a) and a second fixed support (200b) for supporting the annular piece (100) about the pivot axis (SA), wherein the fixed supports (200a, 200b) can be fixed to the article (50), and wherein the fixed supports (200a, 200b) respectively have retaining supports (300a, 300b) for retaining elements (100a, 100b) of the annular piece (100), the retaining elements being pivotable about the pivot axis (SA). Its features are, The first retaining element (100a) of the annular tab (100) has a retaining nose (110a) that extends radially from the first retaining element (100a) relative to the pivot axis (SA). Furthermore, the first fixed support (200a) includes a guide groove (210a) corresponding to the retaining nose (110a) of the first retaining element (100a), such that in the introduction position (ES) of the annular tab (100), the first retaining element (100a) can be introduced into the retaining support portion (300a) of the first fixed support (200a) by means of the retaining nose (110a), thereby allowing the annular tab (100) to be brought into the insertion position (EP) in the retaining support portion (300a), wherein, in the insertion position (EP) of the annular tab (100) in the retaining support portion (300a), the annular tab (100) can be pivoted about the pivot axis (SA) and transferred to the mounting position (MP), wherein As the annular tab (100) moves from the insertion position to the mounting position, the retaining nose engages in the guide groove of the first fixed support, such that the retaining nose (110a) can be guided in the guide groove (210a), thereby engaging the guide groove (210a) with the retaining nose (110a) to prevent the annular tab (100) from moving along the pivot axis (SA) in the mounting position (MP) of the annular tab (100).

2. The annular support according to claim 1, wherein, The first fixed support and / or the second fixed support (200a, 200b) can be fixed to the article (50) by welding.

3. The annular support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second retaining element (100b) includes a retaining nose (110b) that extends radially from the second retaining element (100b) relative to the pivot axis (SA).

4. The annular support according to claim 3, wherein, The second fixed support (200b) has a guide groove (210b) that corresponds to the retaining nose (110b) of the second retaining element (100b).

5. The annular support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The guide groove (210a) of the first fixed support (200a) has an engagement section (220a) and a locking section (230a), wherein the width (BR1, BR2) of the guide groove (210a) tapers from the engagement section (220a) toward the locking section (230a), wherein the width (BR1) of the locking section (230a) corresponds to the retaining nose (110a) of the first retaining element (100a), such that when the annular tab (100) is in the mounting position (MP), the retaining nose (110a) of the first retaining element (100a) engages with the locking section (230a) to prevent the annular tab (100) from moving along the pivot axis (SA).

6. The annular support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The guide groove (210b) of the second fixed support (200b) has an engagement section (220b) and a locking section (230b), wherein the width (BR1, BR2) of the guide groove (210b) tapers from the engagement section (220b) toward the locking section (230b), wherein the width (BR1) of the locking section (230b) corresponds to the retaining nose (110b) of the second retaining element (100b), such that when the annular tab (100) is in the mounting position (MP), the retaining nose (110b) of the second retaining element (100b) engages with the locking section (230b) to prevent the annular tab (100) from moving along the pivot axis (SA).

7. The annular support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The annular tab (100) and the retaining elements (100a, 100b) are integrally made of the same material.

8. The annular support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The annular tab (100) has at least one spacer retaining element, and in the mounting position, the annular tab rests against the spacer retaining element.

9. A method for mounting an annular support (10) according to any one of the preceding claims onto an article (50), wherein, The method includes the following steps in chronological order: a) Secure the first fixed support (200a) to the article (50); b) Move the annular tab (100) into the insertion position (ES); c) Insert the annular tab (100) into the insertion position (EP) of the annular tab (100) in the retaining support portion (300a) of the first fixed support (200a); d) By pivoting the annular piece (100) about the pivot axis (SA), the annular piece (100) is moved from the insertion position (EP) to the mounting position (MP) in the retaining support (300a) of the first fixed support (200a), such that the annular piece (100) is fixed to prevent movement along the pivot axis (SA) in the first fixed support (200a); e) Apply the second fixed support (200b) to the second retaining element (100b) of the annular tab (100) such that the second retaining element (100b) is positioned in the retaining support portion (300b) of the second fixed support (200b); f) Secure the second fixed support (200b) to the article (50).

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, In step a), the first fixed support (200a) is fixed to the article (50) by welding.

11. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, In step f), the second fixing support (200b) is fixed to the article (50) by welding.

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