Cam clamping device

Abstract

A cam gripping device comprises a head (1) with a cam (3) mounted to rotate about a pivot (4) between a retracted position and an extended position. The annular end (2) is mechanically coupled to the head (1). A rod (8) of variable length connects the head (1) with an annular end (2) designed to receive a shackle. A thread element (5) made of a textile material passes through the rod to connect the head (1) and the annular end (2). The trigger (7) is slidably mounted to selectively engage the retracted position of the cam (3). Adjusting means for adjusting the length of the rod (8) define at least a distance between the head (1) and the annular end (2) greater than a threshold distance to stretch the wire element (5) and compress the rod (8) in a first direction (XX).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to a cam clamping device. Background Art

[0002] During the climbing phase, the climber needs to place protection points on the rock face. The climber sequentially installs multiple protection points, which are designed to support the climber in the event of a fall. Some rock faces are equipped with pre-installed protection points, such as in the form of spits sealed into the rock. Other rock faces are not equipped with such points, so that the climber must find the most suitable gap to install his protection point.

[0003] When a climber has to place his / her protection point, passive wedges and active wedges are usually installed. The wedge is designed to be inserted into a gap, which is usually a hole, crack, passage or any other recess, which is deep enough to allow the wedge to be inserted. Each specific shape of the gap is suitable for a specific wedge configuration. Passive wedges are usually formed by a metal part with a specific shape. In a first spatial position, the wedge can be inserted into a fault in the rock face, and in a second spatial position, the wedge is wedged between two opposite faces. The wedge can then be easily installed and removed, as long as the wedge is placed in the hole in the correct spatial configuration. If this is not the case, in the event of a fall, the spatial configuration of the wedge will be such that it will be stuck between the two opposite faces of the hole.

[0004] In addition to passive wedges, active wedges are also known, also called cam wedges or friend cams. Cam wedges are provided with a head having a plurality of cams. The cams are mounted so as to be movable about one or more pivots.

[0005] The cam moves between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the head occupies a smaller volume than in the extended position. The head of the wedge is inserted into the crack in its retracted position, and the cam then attempts to move to the extended position, which presses the cam against two opposing faces of the crack. When a pulling force is applied to the wedge, the shape of the cam has the effect of increasing the force applied to the faces of the crack.

[0006] In a conventional manner, a cam wedge has a head with a number of rotating cams disposed at a first end. The second end of the cam wedge is an annular end configured to receive a carabiner and serve as an anchor point for a climber.

[0007] The head is mechanically connected to the looped end by a cable, usually a steel cable. The two ends of the cable are clamped in the head of the wedge by crimping. The cable extends continuously along the body between the two ends and along the looped end to ensure mechanical continuity between the end fixed to the rock face and the end designed to support the climber.

[0008] When the cable does not have the lateral rigidity required to ensure good control of the placement of the wedge, a rod extending from the head in the direction of the annular end is usually provided. The cable passes through the rod.

[0009] The cam is actuated by a trigger which is mounted to slide movably along the rod. When the user pulls the trigger in the direction of the annular end, the cam moves to the retracted position. When the user interrupts the pulling action, the spring returns the cam to the extended position.

[0010] A large number of configurations of cam wedges are known describing different configurations of the cam, cable, rod or annular end.

[0011] Conventionally, the cable is passed through a hollow rod extending from the head. The cable is passed through the rod to ensure mechanical continuity. However, there is an alternative architecture in which one or more rigid metal rods connect the head to the annular end. The use of cables is no longer necessary. This alternative construction is known from the following documents: DE2824654, US4565342, US4575032, US4645149, GB2158540, US4184657, US4513641 and GB2369068. This extremely rigid rod construction is disadvantageous because it does not allow the wedge to be easily installed in curved cracks.

[0012] In a conventional manner, the metal cable extending from one end of the cam wedge to the other end is U-shaped, with its two top ends fixed to the head by crimping, and the base portion, which is usually the central portion, defines the annular end. Documents US2021 / 0001181 and US2020 / 034075 show a cam wedge, the two ends of which are crimped in the head below the pivot of the cam. Documents US2020 / 034075 and US4,832,289 also disclose an embodiment in which only one end of the cable is crimped in the head of the wedge. The other end is crimped to form an annular end. Documents US7,278,618 and US6,679,466 disclose a cable, each end of which is independently crimped on each side of the cam. The end piece defining the hole is crimped at each end, and the hole of the end piece receives a shaft that fixes the cable to the head.

[0013] Documents US5,860,629 and GB2380949 disclose a cable, one end of which is crimped into the head of a wedge and the other end of which receives an end piece forming a ring end. The end piece is crimped onto the cable.

[0014] Document US 6,679,466 shows a cam wedge in which the two ends of a metal cable each pass around an attachment axis of the head. The two ends form a cable loop that is crimped to ensure mechanical continuity along the cam wedge.

[0015] For these configurations, the length of the wedge is defined by the distance of the cables being crimped.

[0016] In order to provide a lighter product, it is proposed to use The two ends of the belt are fixed in the head, and the belt extends along the wedge to define an annular end. A technical solution is provided in document US10,143,892, which proposes to connect the steel cable by splicing steps. A loop is formed in the strap. The loop is used to secure the end of the strap in the head of the clamping device.

[0017] The life of such a strap is much shorter than that of the steel cable previously used, and much shorter than that of the head. The splicing step is a long and expensive step. It is also obvious that the size of the loop is much less controllable than the crimping step, which can create length differences in the wedges and thus hinder the climber. This means that the length of the pole must be adjusted.

[0018] In order to be able to ensure precise positioning of the cam in the crack, it is important that the cam clamping device has a certain rigidity perpendicular to the axis connecting the head and the ring end. This imposes a complex assembly of the different parts relative to each other. According to the teaching of document US 10,143,892, before forming the loop, two springs are installed between the two parts of the rod to exert stress on the fabric thread element. This makes the formation of the loop by splicing more complicated. Utility Model Content

[0019] An object of the utility model is to provide a cam clamping device which has good rigidity in a direction perpendicular to the connection head and the annular end and has a simpler design so that subsequent repair operations can be performed more easily.

[0020] In order to solve this problem, it is advantageous to provide a cam clamping device, which comprises:

[0021] -head;

[0022] - at least one pivot fixed to said head;

[0023] - at least one cam coupled to said head and mounted to movably rotate about said at least one pivot, said at least one cam being movable between a retracted position and an extended position;

[0024] - a spring coupled to the at least one cam to bias the at least one cam to the extended position;

[0025] - an annular end portion mechanically coupled to the head, the annular end portion being designed to receive a connection member;

[0026] - a rod extending in a first direction from the head to the annular end, the rod having a first end fixed to the head and a second end defining completely or partially the annular end;

[0027] - at least one wire element continuously connecting the head and the ring-shaped end, the at least one wire element extending in the first direction and passing through the rod;

[0028] - an actuation system configured to selectively engage the retracted position of said at least one cam, said actuation system having a trigger slidably mounted in said first direction.

[0029] The cam clamping device is notable in that the rod is a rod of adjustable length to apply traction to the wire element from the head to the looped end, the rod having at least a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion being arranged to be movable relative to the proximal portion to adjust the length of the rod,

[0030] Therein, at least one clamp is configured to block the rod at a desired length by blocking a position of the distal portion relative to the proximal portion.

[0031] According to one feature of the invention, the clamp blocks only the distal portion relative to the proximal portion without jamming the wire element.

[0032] Advantageously, the thread element is a textile thread element.

[0033] In a particular configuration, the wire element is a fabric wire element defining a sewing loop, and the distal end comprises a tubular element through which the wire element passes, with both ends of the loop being secured to the head.

[0034] In an advantageous refinement, the line element is attached to the head by means of an anchoring member which is arranged at a distance from the cam in a viewing direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the at least one pivot, the anchoring member being arranged between the annular end and the at least one pivot.

[0035] Preferably, one of the proximal portion or the distal portion has a serrated portion, and the other of the proximal portion and the distal portion has at least one tooth configured to be inserted into at least one of the grooves of the serrated portion, the grooves of the serrated portion being arranged successively along the first direction.

[0036] In one embodiment, the proximal member extends from the head to a portion of the annular member, and the clamp partially defines the through hole of the annular end.

[0037] In an advantageous refinement, the proximal portion partially defines the through opening of the annular end portion.

[0038] Preferably, the rod is a telescopic rod.

[0039] In a further advantageous refinement, the proximal portion defines a plurality of adjustment stops, against one of which the distal portion is snapped.

[0040] Preferably, in the rest position, the trigger faces said one of the plurality of adjustment stops. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description of specific embodiments and implementations of the invention given for non-limiting illustrative purposes only and represented in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0042] Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cam clamping device;

[0043] Figure 2 Schematically showing a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cam clamping device and an exploded view of the annular end portion;

[0044] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a cam clamping device in a non-stretched position;

[0045] Figure 4 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a cam clamping device in a stretched position;

[0046] Figure 5 schematically shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a cam clamping device;

[0047] Figure 6 schematically shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a cam clamping device and an exploded view of the annular end portion;

[0048] Figure 7 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a cam clamping device in a non-stretched position;

[0049] Figure 8 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a cam clamping device in a stretched position;

[0050] Fig. 9 schematically shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of a cam clamping device, showing an equivalent construction of a wire element;

[0051] Fig.10 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a cam clamping device in a non-stretched position;

[0052] Fig.11 schematically shows an exploded cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a cam clamping device;

[0053] Fig.12 schematically shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a cam clamping device, showing an equivalent construction of a wire element;

[0054] Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a cam clamp is schematically shown in an extended position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Figures 1 to 13 Different embodiments of cam clamping devices, also called "cam clamps," are shown. A cam clamping device is an active clamping device.

[0056] The cam clamping device comprises a first end as a head 1 and an opposite second end as a ring end 2. In a conventional manner, the ring end 2 is in the form of a ring defining a through hole, which is configured to receive a carabiner. The ring end 2 is capable of supporting the weight of a user. The head 1 has at least one cam 3, and preferably a plurality of cams 3, which are mounted to be movably rotated between an extended position and a retracted position. Preferably, several cams 3 are mounted to be movable independently of each other.

[0057] The one or more cams 3 are mounted to be movable about at least one pivot 4. The pivot 4 is fixed to the head 1, more precisely to the body 1a of the head 1. The body 1a may be formed of one or more parts.

[0058] The cam clamping device has a wire element 5 that mechanically connects the head 1 to the ring-shaped end 2. The wire element 5 mechanically connects the cam 3 to the ring-shaped end 2 so that a user attached to the ring-shaped end 2 is firmly held by means of the cam 3 wedged, for example, in a crack. The wire element 5 is a component that ensures mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the ring-shaped end 2. One or more cams 3 are mechanically connected to the ring-shaped end 2. The wire element 5 extends in a first direction XX that connects the head 1 to the ring-shaped end 2 so as to achieve a mechanical resistance in this first direction XX. The wire element 5 is attached to the head 1 and extends continuously from the head 1 until it reaches the ring-shaped end 2 to achieve mechanical continuity along the clamping device.

[0059] The pivot axis 4 extends mainly in a second direction YY which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first direction XX. The one or more cams 3 are rotatably mounted about the second direction YY.

[0060] The head 1 preferably has at least one anchoring member 6, such as an anchoring member shaft. Advantageously, the wire element 5 is fixed to the anchoring member 6, so as to mechanically couple the wire element 5 and the head 1.

[0061] The thread element 5 preferably defines at least one loop through which the anchoring member 6 passes in order to perform force absorption with the annular end 2 when the cam clamping device is subjected to tension in the longitudinal first direction XX. In a preferred manner, the thread element 5 is a textile material. Advantageously, the textile material is a very high molar mass polyethylene, for example made under the trade name or Made of materials sold.

[0062] exist Figures 1 to 13 In the particular embodiment shown, the thread element 5 is in the form of a loop. The loop is advantageously obtained by joining the two ends of the thread element 5 to each other. The two ends can be fixed to each other by a sewing seam 5d for textile thread elements, such as Figure 2 , 3 , 4, 6, 7, 8, 9. Sewing the seam is a well controlled method which makes it easy to obtain a ring with a well controlled mechanical strength. The use of a sewing step makes it possible to form a ring that is cheaper than a ring obtained by splicing and has a better controlled size. It is advantageous that the ring does not need crimping and splicing. The line element 5 can be a belt or a rope.

[0063] The clamping device comprises an actuation system coupled to at least one cam 3. The actuation system is configured to selectively engage a retracted position of said at least one cam 3. The actuation system has a trigger 7 slidably arranged along a first direction XX, connecting the head 1 and the annular end 2.

[0064] The trigger 7 is mounted to be movable relative to the head 1 and is coupled to the at least one cam 3. The trigger 7 is coupled to the at least one cam 3 so that movement of the trigger 7 away from the head 1 causes the at least one cam 3 to move to a retracted position, i.e. away from the extended position. In a preferred manner, the trigger 7 is coupled to all cams 3 so that movement of the trigger 7 away from the head 1 causes the cam 3 to move to a retracted position. Outside the first trigger position, the at least one cam 3 is outside the extended position.

[0065] Preferably, when said at least one cam 3 is in the retracted position, said at least one cam 3 does not prevent the movement of the trigger 7 in the direction of the head 1 .

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the trigger 7 is mounted so as to be able to slide along the wire element 5 between the head 1 and the ring end 2. The trigger 7 can be connected to the cam 3 or each cam 3 by an additional wire element 10. The additional wire element 10 can be a metal cable, a fabric element or a wire element made of a synthetic material (such as plastic). The additional wire element 10 mechanically connects the cam 3 to the trigger 7 and enables the movement of the trigger 7 to the second trigger position to be relayed, that is, the movement towards the ring end 2 can be converted into the movement of the cam 3 to the retracted position. The movement of at least one cam 3 from the retracted position to the extended position causes the movement of the trigger 7 away from the second trigger position.

[0067] The cam clamping device has a spring 11, which is configured to bias the at least one cam 3 to the extended position. The spring 11 can be made in any technology, it can be a helical spring operating in traction, compression, torsion or bending. It can also be a metal sheet or metal wire that is elastically deformed. In the absence of any stress and obstacles, the spring 11 puts one or more cams 3 in the extended position. The force applied to the trigger 7 to move away from the head 1 corresponds to the force applied to the spring 11 to move one or more cams 3 away from the extended position. In one embodiment, the spring 11 is fixed to the cam 3 on the one hand and to the head 1 on the other hand. In another embodiment, the spring 11 is fixed to the first cam 3 on the one hand and to the second cam 3 mounted on a pivot 4 different from the first cam 3 on the other hand. The clamping device can include as many springs 11 as cams 3 and / or as many springs 11 as pairs of cams 3.

[0068] When the thread element 5 is a textile material, it is difficult to have good rigidity perpendicular to the first direction XX by the thread element 5 and then obtain the rigidity by an additional element such as a rod. This is also true when the thread element 5 is a metal cable of small cross section. In order to increase the rigidity perpendicular to the first direction XX, the cam clamping device comprises at least one rod 8, which extends from the head 1 to the annular end 2 in the first direction XX. The at least one rod 8 is fixed to the head 1 on the one hand and it partially or completely defines the annular end 2. Preferably, a first end of the rod 8 can abut against a stop formed by the head 1. The force exerted by the thread element presses one end of the rod 8 against the head 1.

[0069] exist Figures 1 to 13 In the embodiment shown, the cam clamping device comprises a single rod 8 extending longitudinally in a first direction XX.

[0070] The rod 8 is more rigid than the wire element 5 in a direction perpendicular to the direction XX, which enables the cam clamping device to be fixed by means of the rod 8 and such a clamping device to be placed more precisely in the crack than an equivalent device without the rod 8. Advantageously, the trigger 7 is mounted slidingly along the rod 8 and the rod 8 separates the wire element 5 and the trigger 7. It is advantageous for the wire element 5 to pass through the rod 8 in order to protect the wire element.

[0071] To ensure good rigidity perpendicular to the first direction XX, it is advantageous to apply a tensile stress on the wire element from its point of attachment to the head up to the annular end 2. To apply a tensile stress on the wire element 5, a rod 8 is used which then receives the compressive force applied by the wire element in the first direction XX.

[0072] The manufacture of the wire element leads to differences around the target length. The same is true for the manufacture of the rod. In order to exert sufficient force on the wire element, it is preferred to adjust the length of the wire element and the rod. Therefore, it is particularly advantageous to use a rod whose length is adjustable in the first direction XX so as to exert a tensile stress on the wire element 5 in the first direction XX. Although document US10,143,892 proposes the use of a spring that will be stressed when the wire element is attached to the head, it is proposed to form the rod 8 as two parts with a clamp that freezes the length of the rod 8.

[0073] In a particular embodiment, the rod 8 has a variable length. The use of a variable length enables the length of the rod 8 to be adjusted to the effective length of the line element 5 between the head 1 and the ring end 2. In order to obtain a rod 8 of variable length, it is advantageous to have a rod made of at least two parts, wherein the first part is assembled to be movable relative to the second part in a first direction XX. By moving the first part relative to the second part, the length of the rod 8 can be adjusted. A traction force can be applied to the line element 5 in the first direction XX. This enables the rod 8 to be subjected to compressive stress by means of the line element 5, thereby enhancing the rigidity of the rod 8. The length is measured in the first direction XX.

[0074] Depending on the embodiment, the adjustment of the length of the rod 8 may be continuous or incremental. Once the length is defined, the clamp 12 enables the position of the second portion to be fixed relative to the first portion. Since the wire element 5 is more rigid than the rod 8 in the first direction XX, the wire element 5 will resist the increase in the length of the rod 8, which will be compressively stressed. The compression of the rod 8 will make it possible to have a more rigid rod 8 perpendicular to the first direction YY, thereby improving the precise installation of the clamping device in the crack.

[0075] In the first clamping position, the length of the rod 8 can be varied, which avoids stressing the line element 5 or excessive stress on the line element. This makes it easier to perform the fixing of the line element 5 to the head 1. In the second clamping position, the length of the rod 8 is fixed. The length of the rod 8 defines the degree of force applied to the line element 5.

[0076] In other words, the cam clamping means comprise adjustment means of the length of the rod 8 configured to separate the head 1 and the annular end 2 over at least a threshold distance and to exert a traction force on the thread element 5 in the first direction XX.

[0077] The rod 8 has a proximal portion 8a which abuts against a stop formed by the head 1 or is fixed to the head. The rod 8 also has a distal portion 8b which forms all or part of the annular end 2 and is separated from the head 1 by the proximal portion 8a. The distal portion 8b is arranged to be movable relative to the proximal portion 8a to vary the length of the rod 8 and exert a traction force on the wire element 5 in a first direction XX. This solution is easy to implement and enables the length of the rod 8 to be adjusted to the length of the wire element 5.

[0078] Advantageously, the proximal portion 8 and the distal portion 8b comprise or are formed by a tube through which the wire element 5 passes. The distal portion 8b protects the wire element 5 from wear in all or part of the ring-shaped end portion 2.

[0079] In an advantageous manner, the proximal portion 8a defines at least one cavity designed to receive one end of the distal portion 8b. When the clamp 12 is in the first clamping position, the end of the distal portion 8b is fixedly mounted in the cavity. When the clamp 12 is in the second clamping position, the end of the distal portion 8b can slide in the cavity.

[0080] by Figures 1 to 13 In the preferred manner shown, the tubular portion of the distal portion 8b of the rod 8 is able to deform elastically perpendicular to the first direction XX so as to better match its shape to the shape of the wire element 5 under tension. In a preferred manner, the wire element 5 is in continuous contact with the tubular portion of the distal portion 8b so that the strain applied in the annular end 2 is absorbed by the wire element 5. When it is deformed, the tubular portion of the distal portion 8b applies a tensile force on the wire element 5 and a compressive force on the proximal portion 8a. The deformation of the distal portion 8b increases the stiffness perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0081] Advantageously, one of the proximal portion 8a and the distal portion 8b has a serrated portion 8c and the other of the proximal portion 8a and the distal portion 8b has at least one tooth configured to be inserted into at least one of the grooves of the serrated portion 8c. The grooves are arranged successively along the first direction XX. The use of a plurality of grooves operating in combination with at least one tooth and preferably with a plurality of teeth makes it possible to define several different lengths of the rod 8. It is then easier to adjust the length of the rod 8 to the length of the line element 5 and to maintain this length. Such an embodiment is Figure 7 and Figure 8 The present invention is shown in the figure and can be applied to other embodiments.

[0082] exist Figures 1 to 13 In the embodiment shown, the cam clamping device comprises a clamp 12 configured to block the position of the distal portion 8b relative to the proximal portion 8a. The clamp 12 is removably mounted relative to the rod 8. The clamp 12 may include a screw 9 or any other fixing means to fix the clamp 12 to the rod 8.

[0083] In the first clamping position, which is a blocking position, the clamp 12 reduces the available cross section for sliding between the first and second parts. The position of the distal part 8b is fixed relative to the proximal part 8a. In the second clamping position, which is a sliding position, the clamp 12 moves away, which has the effect of increasing the available cross section and allowing the length of the rod 8 to be adjusted. Figure 3 and Figure 4 A clamp 12 is shown, one end of which is in the form of a wedge, the depth of its depression in the rod 8 defining the degree of narrowing of the cavity designed to receive the end of the distal portion 8b.

[0084] It is particularly advantageous to mount the clamp 12 in the portion of the rod 8 defining the annular end 2, rather than in the tubular portion connecting the head to the annular end 2. This makes it possible to have more space available to avoid the formation of favorable friction zones with the wire element 5. This enables the tubular portion of the distal portion 8b to better adapt its shape according to the applied stresses. This also makes the mounting of the rod 8 easier to perform.

[0085] For example, Figure 3 , 4 , 7, 8, 10 and 13, in the first clamping position, the clamp 12 abuts against at least one terminal or two terminals of the distal portion 8b of the proximal portion 8a. When the clamp 12 is wedged into only one terminal of the distal portion 8b, the other terminal abuts against the stop formed by the proximal portion 8a.

[0086] exist Figures 1 to 4In the embodiment shown, the proximal portion 8a defines two cavities designed to receive the two ends of the distal portion 8b. In a first clamping position, the clamp 12 blocks the position of the distal portion 8b relative to the proximal portion 8a. In a second clamping position, the clamp 12 allows the position of the distal portion 8b to be moved relative to the proximal portion 8a in a first direction XX. This assembly facilitates the installation of the tubular portion in the cavity and then applies tension on the tubular portion and on the wire element to apply compressive stress to the rest of the rod 8.

[0087] Figures 1 to 4 An embodiment is shown in which the clamp 12 is fixed in the hole of the proximal part and reduces the cross section available to the distal part 8b. The terminal end of the distal part 8b deforms and wedges into the proximal part 8a, thereby fixing the position of the distal part 8b relative to the proximal part 8a.

[0088] Figures 5 to 8 An embodiment is shown in which the clamp 12 defines at least one tooth or one serration 8c and the distal portion defines a serration or at least one tooth. Once the clamp 12 has been secured to the proximal portion 8a, the serration and the at least one tooth secure the position of the distal portion 8b. The clamp 12 defines the wall of a cavity designed to receive the end of the distal portion 8b.

[0089] Figures 9 to 11 Another embodiment is shown with a proximal portion 8a which is a telescopic proximal portion. A clamp 12 is fixed to the proximal portion 8a and wedged into the distal portion 8b to fix the position of the distal portion 8b. Assembling the proximal portion 8a in two parts makes the installation of the rod 8 easier to perform. The proximal portion 8a has a first portion 8d and a second portion 8e, the second portion 8e being assembled to be movable in a first direction XX relative to the first portion 8d. Fig. 9 In the position shown, the proximal portion 8a is in the extended position. Fig.10 In the position shown, the proximal portion 8a is in the retracted position. The configuration of the proximal portion 8a between the extended position and the retracted position is independent of the position of the at least one cam 3 and the position of the trigger 7. The proximal portion 8a may have its own clamp to fix the position of the second portion 8e relative to the position of the first portion 8d. For example, the first portion 8d and the second portion 8e define a set of grooves and teeth that only allow the length of the rod 8 to increase.

[0090] In a preferred manner, once the proximal portion 8a has been placed in the extended position, it cannot be returned to the retracted position, or the force required to reach the retracted position is greater than the force applied between the wire element 5 and the rod 8 to apply a compressive stress to the rod 8. The use of the proximal portion 8a in at least two parts, preferably with a telescopic assembly, facilitates the installation of the rod 8 and the tensioning of the wire element 5. Preferably, in the retracted position, the proximal portion 8a and the distal portion 8b cannot stretch the wire element 5. The clamp 12 enables a more precise adjustment of the length of the rod 8.

[0091] exist Fig.12 and Fig.13 In yet another embodiment of its particular configuration shown in , the proximal portion 8a and the distal portion 8b are assembled to be movable relative to each other to define several stable positions of the distal portion 8b relative to the proximal portion 8a. In the particular configuration shown, the proximal portion 8a and the distal portion 8b define a groove and tab arrangement that enables the length of the rod 8 to be defined.

[0092] The distal portion 8b is preferably designed in two parts with a first portion 8d and a second portion 8e. The two parts are not configured to adjust the length of the rod 8 by relative movement between the first portion 8d and the second portion 8e. The clamp 12 reduces the available cross section through which the second portion 8e passes, which has the effect of wedging the second portion 8e relative to the first portion 8d. The wedging of the second portion 8e pulls the wire element 5. When the clamp 12 is removed, the second portion 8e provides sufficient space for the wire element that can be deformed to reduce the tensile stress value. After the wire element has been stretched to release the space designed to receive the clamp 12, the installation of the clamp 12 is obtained.

[0093] In the embodiment shown, the rod 8 is shown in the form of a telescopic rod 8. However, other embodiments are possible.

[0094] The use of a rod 8 of adjustable length is particularly advantageous for controlling the rigidity of the rod 8 perpendicularly to the first direction XX by applying stress by means of the wire element 5. Such an embodiment facilitates manufacturing in a factory.

[0095] This configuration is particularly advantageous for manufacturing the cam clamp. This configuration is particularly advantageous for replacing the wire element and / or the rod 8 of the cam clamp.

[0096] To manufacture the cam clamp, a cam clamp according to any of the above configurations is provided. The rod 8 is lengthened to increase the distance between the head 1 and the annular end 2, which has the effect of applying tension on the wire element 5 and compression on the rod 8. The length of the rod 8 is adjusted to a predetermined length. The length of the rod 8 is blocked by means of the clamp 12.

[0097] This configuration is particularly advantageous when performing repair operations on the cam clamping device. For example, if the rod 8 is damaged and must be replaced, the length change between the original rod 8 and the new rod 8 can be easily compensated by adjusting the length of the rod 8 to the length of the wire element.

[0098] This configuration is particularly advantageous when it is necessary to replace the wire element 5, ensuring mechanical continuity between the head and the annular end 2. Uncertainties in the size of the head, the length of the wire element and the length of the rod 8 result in the clamping device never or only with difficulty being disassembled for replacement of the wire element 5.

[0099] Providing a rod 8 of variable length enables compensation of manufacturing uncertainties and thus makes it possible to provide new line elements 5 and preferably a replacement kit comprising a new line element and a new rod 8 .

[0100] A cam clamping device is provided, comprising a head 1 connected to a ring end 2 by a wire element 5 and a rod 8. As described above, the head 1 is provided with at least one cam 3, at least one pivot 4, at least one spring 11 and a trigger 7 mechanically connected to the at least one cam 3.

[0101] The rod 8 and the wire element 5 are removed. A new wire element 5 is attached to the head 1 together with the rod 8, the wire element 5 passing through the rod 8. The rod 8 is lengthened to increase the distance between the head 1 and the ring end 2, which has the effect of applying tension on the wire element 5 and compression on the rod 8. The length of the rod 8 is set to a predetermined length, and the desired length is fixed by the clamp 12. Care must be taken to replace the rod 8 in the corresponding hole of the trigger 7.

[0102] To facilitate the fixing of the wire element to the head, it is advantageous for the rod 8 to be in a retracted position or in a position where it occupies little space. The length of the rod 8 is then increased to exert a compressive stress on the rod 8 .

[0103] Replacement of line elements can be performed with limited equipment, which means that the replacement operation can easily be performed by a dedicated operator or even by the user.

[0104] It is also possible to exchange the rod 8 and the wire element 5 to adjust the length of the clamping device according to specific requirements. If the length of the rod 8 and the length of the wire element 5 are increased significantly, an extensor of the trigger 7 can be envisaged.

[0105] Figures 1 to 13A rod 8 is shown with its proximal portion 8a inserted into the head 1, more preferably into the body 1a of the head, so that the proximal portion 8a abuts against a stop formed by one of the components of the head 1. This embodiment is advantageous because it enables the proximal portion to be easily installed and removed. When the rod 8 is not under compressive stress, the rod 8 can be moved in the first direction XX. As an alternative, the proximal portion 8a can be fixed directly to the head 1.

[0106] In the embodiment shown, the cam clamp has four cams 3. More or fewer cams 3 can be used. The shown configuration for mounting the wire element 5 is suitable for clamps comprising one, two, three, four or more cams 3. The number of cams 3 can be an even number or an odd number. The cams 3 are preferably made of a metal material, for example, an aluminum alloy or steel.

[0107] The rod 8 is preferably made of a polymer material so as to be flexible in one or more directions perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0108] The above embodiment is particularly advantageous for thread elements made of textile material, which have a shorter lifespan than equivalents made of metal. Furthermore, the loops formed by the thread elements 5 are manufactured in the factory using a well-controlled sewing method, thereby ensuring good mechanical strength of the thread elements 5.

[0109] In a preferred manner, the wire element 5 is in the form of a loop, and it is advantageous to shape the loop so as to form a "U". The figures show a loop which is shaped (e.g. folded) into a U-shape having two legs 5a, each terminating in a loop 5b. There is also a connecting portion 5c connecting the two legs 5a. The connecting portion 5c is preferably a central portion. Preferably, the seam 5d is located in the central portion to limit the space occupation in or near the head 1. The two legs 5a of the U-shaped wire element pass through the rod 8 towards the head 1, facing the anchoring part 6 in a direction perpendicular to the direction XX (here the direction YY), but another configuration is possible.

[0110] In a preferred manner, each leg 5a terminates in a ring 5b through which the axis of the anchoring member of the head 1 passes.

[0111] Once the wire element 5 has been mounted in the cam clamping device, the wire element 5 has a first loop 5b fixed to the head 1. A first leg 5a extends from the head 1 up to the ring-shaped end 2. The wire element 5 extends along the ring-shaped end 2 and returns to the head 1 via the second leg 5a. Applying a tension between the head 1 and the ring-shaped end 2 has the effect of tensioning the wire element 5. In the embodiment shown, there are four wire elements connecting the head 1 to the ring-shaped end 2. More or fewer wire elements are feasible.

[0112] The connecting portion 5 c extends along the annular end 2 , whereas the two legs 5 a each extend in the direction of the head 1 .

[0113] Figures 1 to 13 An embodiment is shown in which two loops 5b present at the two ends of the loop folded into a U-shape are passed through by the anchoring member shaft. The anchoring member shaft is fixed to the body 1a of the head 1, for example, by screwing, by crimping or by riveting. Depending on the embodiment, the anchoring member shaft is mounted removable or non-removable from the rest of the head 1. The two ends of the wire element 5 are inserted into the head 1. The anchoring member shaft passes through the two loops 5b and performs a double attachment of the wire element to the head 1. The anchoring member shaft is fixed at its two ends to the body 1a.

[0114] It is particularly advantageous to have the anchoring shaft removably mounted relative to the head 1 in order to have an easily replaceable wire element 5. Disassembly of the anchoring shaft enables elimination of the attachment between the wire element 5 and the head 1, thereby enabling replacement of the wire element 5.

[0115] It is advantageous to have a head 1 defining a blind hole to prevent the thread element 5 from passing through the head in the first direction XX.

[0116] In an alternative embodiment, the anchoring shaft may be non-detachable. By preventing disassembly of the anchoring shaft, safety is enhanced and causes for incorrect reassembly are prevented. The two legs 5a enter the body 1a and pass around the anchoring shaft. The two legs 5a leave the head 1 in the direction of the ring end 2, and the ring end 2 passes through the ring 5b at the ends of the two legs 5a. By pulling the wire element 5, a double knot is formed around the anchoring shaft that fixes the wire element 1 to the head 1. This embodiment may be complicated to implement if the space in the head 1 is limited to allow the wire element 5 to slide and pass around the anchoring shaft.

[0117] The anchoring member 6 may be destructible relative to the head. Destruction of the anchoring member 6 enables elimination of the mechanical connection between the wire element and the head. This enables the wire element to be replaced by another wire element.

[0118] In order to make the replacement of the wire element 5 and / or the rod 8 easier to perform, it is advantageous to mount the anchoring part below the space occupied by the at least one pivot 4 and by the at least one cam 3. In other words, the anchoring part is not arranged facing the pivot 4 and facing the at least one cam 3 in a viewing direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the at least one pivot 4.

[0119] The anchoring means is arranged between the at least one cam 3 and the annular end 2. This arrangement enables easier access to the anchoring means, allowing the head 1 and the line element to be separated from each other without having to disassemble the cam(s) 3 or the pivot(s) 4.

Claims

1. A cam clamping device, characterized in that: The cam clamping device comprises: Head (1); at least one pivot (4) fixed to the head (1); at least one cam (3) coupled to the head (1) and mounted to be movably rotatable about the at least one pivot (4), the at least one cam (3) being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; a spring (11) coupled to the at least one cam (3) to bias the at least one cam (3) to the extended position; an annular end portion (2) mechanically coupled to the head portion (1), the annular end portion (2) being designed to receive a connecting member; a rod (8) extending in a first direction (XX) from the head (1) to the annular end (2), the rod (8) having a first end fixed to the head (1) and a second end completely or partially defining the annular end (2); at least one thread element (5) continuously connecting the head (1) and the annular end (2), the at least one thread element (5) extending along the first direction (XX) and passing through the rod (8); an actuation system configured to selectively engage the retracted position of the at least one cam (3), the actuation system having a trigger (7) slidably mounted along the first direction (XX); The rod (8) has an adjustable length to apply traction to the wire element (5) from the head (1) to the ring-shaped end (2), and the rod (8) has at least a proximal portion (8a) and a distal portion (8b), wherein the distal portion (8b) is arranged to be movable relative to the proximal portion (8a) to adjust the length of the rod (8). Therein, at least one clamp (12) is configured to block the rod (8) at a desired length by blocking the position of the distal portion (8b) relative to the proximal portion (8a).

2. The cam clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The at least one clamp (12) blocks only the distal portion (8b) relative to the proximal portion (8a) without jamming the wire element (5).

3. The cam clamping device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The thread element (5) is a textile thread element.

4. The cam clamping device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The wire element (5) is a fabric wire element defining a sewing loop, and the distal portion (8b) comprises a tubular element through which the wire element (5) passes, with both ends of the loop being fixed to the head (1).

5. The cam clamping device according to any one of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that: The line element (5) is attached to the head (1) by means of an anchoring member (6) which is arranged at a distance from the cam in a viewing direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the at least one pivot (4), the anchoring member being arranged between the annular end (2) and the at least one pivot (4).

6. The cam clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: One of the proximal portion (8a) or the distal portion (8b) has a serrated portion (8c), and the other of the proximal portion (8a) and the distal portion (8b) has at least one tooth, the at least one tooth being configured to be inserted into at least one of a plurality of grooves of the serrated portion (8c), the grooves of the serrated portion (8c) being arranged successively along the first direction (XX).

7. The cam clamping device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The proximal portion extends from the head (1) to a portion of the annular end portion (2), and the at least one clamp (12) partially defines a through hole of the annular end portion (2).

8. The cam clamping device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The proximal portion (8a) partially defines the through hole of the annular end portion (2).

9. The cam clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rod (8) is a telescopic rod.

10. The cam clamping device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The proximal portion (8a) defines a plurality of adjustment stops, and the distal portion (8b) is wedged against one of the plurality of adjustment stops.

11. The cam clamping device according to claim 10, characterized in that: In the rest position, the trigger (7) faces the one stop of the plurality of adjustment stops.

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