Cam clamping device

Abstract

A cam clamping device comprises a head (1) provided with an anchor (6). The cam (3) is mounted so as to be rotatable about the at least one shaft (4) between a retracted position and an extended position. A spring is functionally coupled to the cams (3) to bias the at least one cam (3) to the extended position. The annular end (2) is mechanically coupled to the head (1). A wire element (5) connects the head (1) and the annular end (2). The wire element (5) is in the form of a loop. The ring is folded into a U shape with two legs (5a) connected by a central portion (5b). The two legs (5a) are fixed to the anchor (6). Four strands of the wire element (5) connect the head (1) and the annular end (2). The actuation system has a slidably mounted trigger (7) configured to selectively engage the retracted position.

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 installs several protection points in sequence, which are designed to support him in the event of a fall. Some rock faces are equipped with pre-installed protection points, for example in the form of mouths sealed in the rock. Other rock faces are not equipped with such points, so that the climber must find the most suitable gap for installing his protection point.

[0003] When a climber has to place his / her protection point, it is conventional to install passive and active wedges. Wedges are designed to be inserted into gaps, which are usually holes, cracks, passages or any other recesses that are deep enough to allow the wedge to be inserted. A specific wedge configuration is adapted to each specific shape of the gap. Passive wedges are usually formed by metal parts 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. It is a prerequisite that the wedge is placed in the hole with the correct spatial configuration, which can subsequently be easily installed and removed. 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, also called cam wedges or cam clamps, are also known. Cam wedges are provided with a head having a plurality of cams. The cams are mounted around one or more pivot axes.

[0005] The cam moves between a retracted position and an extended position. The volume occupied by the head in the retracted position is smaller than in the extended position. The wedge head is inserted into the crack in its retracted position and then the cam attempts to move to the extended position, which presses the cam against two opposing rock faces in the crack. When tension 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 conventional manner, the cam wedge has a head at a first end, the head being provided with several rotating cams. The second end of the cam wedge is an annular end defining a through hole, and the through hole is configured to receive a buckle and serve as an anchor point for a climber.

[0007] The head is mechanically connected to the looped end by means of 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 the cable extends along the looped end, thereby ensuring mechanical continuity between the end fixed to the rock face and the end designed to support the climber.

[0008] Since the cable does not have the lateral rigidity required to ensure good control of the placement of the wedge, it is conventional to provide a rod extending from the head, in the direction of the looped end.The cable passes through the rod.

[0009] Finally, the actuation of the cam is achieved by means of a trigger which is mounted slidably 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] Cam wedges are known in a large number of configurations describing different configurations of cams, cables, rods or ring ends.

[0011] Conventionally, the cable is passed through a hollow rod extending from the head. The rod is passed through by the cable to ensure mechanical continuity. However, an alternative architecture does exist in which one or more rigid metal rods connect the head to the ring end. The use of cables is no longer necessary. This alternative configuration is known from the following documents: DE2824654, US4,565,342, US4,575,032, US4,645,149, GB2158540, US4,184,657, US4,513,641 and GB2369068. This infinitely rigid rod configuration is not advantageous because it does not allow the wedge to be easily installed in a curved cleft.

[0012] In a conventional manner, the metal cable extending from one end of the cam wedge to the other end is U-shaped, with both ends of the cable being fixed to the head by crimping, and the center portion defining an annular end. Documents US2021 / 0001181 and US2020 / 034075 show a cam wedge, the ends of the metal cable of which are crimped in the head, under the pivot axis 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 in the 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. An end piece defining a hole is crimped to each end, and the hole of the end piece receives an axis 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 are each passed around the anchoring shaft of the head. The two ends form a cable coil that is crimped to ensure mechanical continuity along the cam wedge.

[0015] When a climber ascends a rock face, he / she knows or anticipates the number of wedges to use and the size of wedges he / she carries. It is not uncommon for a climber to start with fifteen or so wedges, which can represent a considerable amount of weight. Therefore, new configurations of wedges are sought to achieve a weight gain.

[0016] In order to provide a lighter product, it is proposed to use The belt replaces the steel cable. The two ends of the belt are fixed in the head and the belt extends along the wedge to define a ring end. A first technical solution is proposed in document US2004 / 0035992. This document discloses two pairs of cams mounted to rotate around a single pivot axis. The pivot axis passes through a through hole in a rigid rod. The starting trigger of the cam is mounted slidingly along the rod. The textile belt passes through the rod and the pivot axis passes through the belt so that the belt provides mechanical continuity between the cam and the buckle in the ring fixed at the opposite end of the rod. This configuration is not practical in use because the belt brings inconvenience to the user. Maintenance of the attachment device is more difficult and it is almost impossible to replace the belt because the head needs to be disassembled.

[0017] Another technical solution is proposed in document US10,143,892, which proposes to use a splicing step to The wire forms a loop. Before the splicing step of forming the loop is performed, the wire is passed through the rod and the spring. The part of the loop protruding from the rod is passed through by an anchoring shaft mounted near the pivot axis of the cam. The splicing step is a long and expensive step, the complexity of which is increased by the elements of the rod inserted before the loop is closed. Passing the shaft through the loop also seems complicated to perform. This wedge configuration is still expensive. It is also obvious that it is almost impossible to replace the loop formed by splicing. Utility Model Content

[0018] One object of the present invention includes providing a cam clamp having a mechanical connection between the head and the annular end that is more efficient and potentially easier to manufacture than prior art arrangements.

[0019] According to one feature of the utility model, the cam clamping device comprises:

[0020] a head having at least one cam mounted for movable rotation about the at least one pivot axis, at least one pivot axis, and at least one spring, the at least one cam being movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the at least one spring being functionally coupled to the at least one cam to bias the at least one cam to the extended position;

[0021] an annular end mechanically coupled to the head, the annular end defining a through hole;

[0022] at least one wire element, at least one wire element mechanically connecting the head and the looped end, at least one wire element being in the form of a loop;

[0023] An actuation system is coupled to the at least one cam, the actuation system being configured to selectively engage the retracted position, the actuation system having a trigger slidably mounted along a first direction connecting the head and the ring end.

[0024] The cam clamping device is notable in that the ring is folded to define at least two legs, each leg comprising a top end, a bottom end and two strands, the two strands being joined at the top end to form a loop attached to the head, the bottom end of each leg being extended by a connecting portion connecting the legs to each other, the connecting portion defining the through hole, the connecting portion comprising at least four strands of the wire element.

[0025] Advantageously, the loop of the thread element is a loop made of textile material.

[0026] In a particular configuration, each ring is slidably mounted relative to the head.

[0027] In one refinement, each strand of the connecting portion is slidably mounted relative to the other strands.

[0028] Preferably, the loop of the thread element is obtained by sewing the two terminal ends of the thread element to each other, the seam being located in the connection area.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the cam clamp comprises a rod extending from the head to the annular end. The rod is hollow and is traversed by the same number of strands as in the connecting part.

[0030] In an advantageous refinement, the length of the rod in the first direction is adjustable.

[0031] Preferably, each loop is attached to at least one anchoring point removably mounted relative to the head.

[0032] In a further advantageous development, an anchoring point passes through at least two loops.

[0033] Preferably, the removable anchoring point is located at a distance from the at least one pivot axis and between the at least one pivot axis and the annular end in the first direction.

[0034] In an advantageous manner, the head has a body supporting at least one pivot axis. Each loop passes around at least one pivot axis to attach the line element to the head. The head is traversable to allow the loop to pass through.

[0035] In a preferred development, the head has a body supporting at least one pivot axis, the body being passable for passing the loops. The loops each form a cow hitch throttling the body to secure the thread element to the head. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Other advantages and features will become more apparent from the description of particular embodiments and implementations of the invention given for non-limiting illustrative purposes only and represented in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0037] Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a cam clamping device according to a first embodiment;

[0038] Figure 2 schematically shows a front view of a cam clamping device according to a first embodiment;

[0039] Figure 3 Schematically shows the arrangement according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A front view of a wire element within a cam clamping device;

[0040] Figure 4 Schematically shows the arrangement according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A side view of a wire element within a cam clamping device;

[0041] Figure 5 Schematically shows a top view of the head of the cam clamping device according to the first embodiment;

[0042] Figure 6 schematically shows a front view of a cam clamping device according to a second embodiment;

[0043] Figure 7 schematically shows a front view of a wire element arranged in a cam clamp according to a second embodiment;

[0044] Figure 8 schematically shows a side view of a wire element arranged in a cam clamping device according to a second embodiment;

[0045] Fig. 9 schematically shows a top view of the head of a cam clamping device according to a second embodiment;

[0046] Fig.10 schematically shows a front view of a cam clamping device according to a third embodiment;

[0047] Fig.11 schematically shows a front view of a wire element arranged in a cam clamping device according to a third embodiment;

[0048] Fig.12 schematically shows a side view of a wire element arranged in a cam clamping device according to a third embodiment;

[0049] Fig.13 schematically shows a top view of the head of a cam clamping device according to a third embodiment;

[0050] Fig.14 schematically shows a perspective view of a loop of a wire element designed to connect the head and the ring end of a cam clamp before the loop is folded;

[0051] Fig.15 schematically shows a perspective view of a loop of a wire element folded so that two pairs of two strands are designed to connect the head and the ring end of the cam clamp;

[0052] Fig.16 Schematically shown is a perspective view of a loop of a wire element folded so that four pairs of two-strand wires are designed to connect the head and the ring end of the cam clamp. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Figures 1 to 16 Different embodiments of cam clamps, also called "cam clamps," are shown. A cam clamp is an active clamping device.

[0054] The cam clamping device comprises a first end as a head 1 and an opposite second end as a ring end 2. The head 1 has at least one cam 3, and preferably has several cams 3 mounted to be movable and rotatable between an extended position and a retracted position. One or more cams 3 are mounted to be movable around at least one pivot axis 4 of the head 1. One or more cams 3 are mechanically coupled to the body 1a of the head 1. The pivot axis 4 is fixed to the body 1a of the head 1. The body 1a can be formed by one or more parts. At least one cam 3 is mounted to rotate relative to the body 1a. The pivot axis 4 extends mainly in a second direction YY perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0055] In conventional manner, the ring end 2 is in the form of a ring defining a through hole configured to receive a buckle. The ring end 2 is capable of supporting the weight of a user.

[0056] The cam clamp has a wire element 5 that mechanically connects the head 1 with the ring end 2. The wire element 5 extends continuously from the head 1 to the ring end 2 in a first direction XX. The wire element 5 is attached to the head 1 at each of its ends and extends along the ring end 2 between it and the head 1 anchor. The wire element 5 ensures mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the ring end 2. The wire element 5 mechanically couples the cam 3 with the ring end 2 so that a user attached to the ring end 2 is held by means of the cam 3 wedged, for example, in a crack.

[0057] The clamping device comprises an actuation system coupled to at least one cam 3. The actuation system is configured to selectively engage the retracted position of the at least one cam 3. The actuation system has a trigger 7 mounted slidably along a first direction XX connecting the head 1 and the ring end 2. In other words, the trigger 7 is mounted to be movable relative to the head 1 and coupled to the at least one cam 3. When the trigger 7 is outside the first position, the at least one cam 3 is outside the extended position.

[0058] Preferably, the trigger 7 is coupled to at least one cam 3, so that movement of the trigger 7 away from the head 1 causes at least one cam 3 to move away from the extended position, i.e. to the retracted 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 cams 3 to move to the retracted position.

[0059] Advantageously, the movement of the trigger 7 in the direction of the head 1 does not impose any movement of the cam 3 , in particular does not impose a movement of the cam 3 into the extended position.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the trigger 7 is slidably mounted along the wire element 5 between the head 1 and the ring end 2. The trigger 7 can be coupled to the cam 3 or each cam 3 by an additional wire element 11. The additional wire element 11 can be a metal cable, a textile element or a wire element made of a synthetic material (e.g. plastic). The additional wire element 11 couples the cam 3 to the trigger 7 and enables the movement of the trigger 7 towards the ring end 2 to be transcribed into the movement of the cam 3 to the retracted position.

[0061] The cam clamping device has a spring 10 configured to bias at least one cam 3 to an extended position. The spring 10 can be made in any technology: it can be a helical spring operating in traction, compression, torsion or bending. It can also be a blade or metal wire that deforms flexibly. In the absence of any stress and any obstacles, the spring 10 puts one or more cams 3 in an extended position. The force exerted on the trigger 7 to move away from the head 1 corresponds to the force exerted on the spring 10 to move one or more cams 3 to a retracted position. In one embodiment, the spring 10 is fixed to the cam 3 on the one hand and to the head 1 on the other hand. In another embodiment, the spring 10 is fixed to the first cam 3 on the one hand and partially to the second cam 3 mounted on another pivot axis 4 different from the first cam 3 on the other hand. The clamping device can include as many springs 10 as cams or as many springs 10 as pairs of cams 3.

[0062] In a preferred manner, the cam clamping device comprises at least one rod 8 extending from the head 1 in the direction of the annular end 2, ie in the first direction XX. Figures 1 to 13 In the embodiment shown, the cam clamping means comprises a single rod 8 extending longitudinally in a first direction XX. In a preferred manner, the rod 8 is firmly pressed against the head 1 or fixed to the head. Advantageously, the rod 8 partially defines the through hole of the annular end 2.

[0063] The rod 8 is hollow and the wire element 5 passes through the rod 8 to connect the ring end 2 with the head 1. In a preferred manner, the rod 8 is more rigid than the wire element 5 in the direction perpendicular to the XX compared to an equivalent device without the rod 8, which enables the cam clamping device to be firmly held by means of the rod 8 and the clamping device to be accurately placed in the crack. In a preferred manner, the rod 8 extends continuously from the head 1 to the ring end 2, so as to provide good mechanical strength when the clamping device is held by the ring end 2 and the trigger 7. Advantageously, the trigger 7 is mounted slidingly along the rod 8 and the rod 8 separates the wire element 5 and the trigger 7. The rod 8 ensures that the wire element 5 can be protected outside the head 1 to the ring end 2.

[0064] like Fig.14 As shown, the line element 5 is in the form of a ring, preferably a ring made of textile material. The ring is formed by a strand, a first end of which is fixed to a relative second end. Advantageously, the ring is closed by sewing. The two ends of the line element 5 are fixedly secured to each other by a sewing area. Sewing is a well-controlled process that makes it easy to obtain a ring with a well-controlled tensile strength. The use of a sewing step ensures that a ring can be formed that is cheaper and has a better control of its size than a ring obtained by splicing. Advantageously, the ring has no crimping and splicing. The line element 5 can be a belt or a rope.

[0065] The rings made of textile material may be very high molar mass polyethylene rings, for example those produced under the trade name or Made of materials sold.

[0066] Fig.14 A line element 5 in the form of a ring is shown. Fig.15 and 16 As shown, the loop is folded to define at least two legs 5a, each leg 5a comprising a top end and a bottom end. Each leg 5a comprises two strands. The two strands are joined to each other at the top end to form a loop 5b. The loop 5b is designed to be attached to the head 1. The bottom end of each leg 5a extends through a connecting portion 5c. The connecting portion 5c connects the legs 5a to each other. The connecting portion 5c defines a through hole of the ring end 2.

[0067] The strands of each leg 5a extend on one side or the other to form a loop 5b or a connecting portion 5c. The loop 5b is extended by one strand next to another strand of the same leg 5a. The connecting portion 5c is extended by one strand next to another strand of the other leg 5a. In other words, each strand connects one end of the loop 5b to the connecting portion 5c. The connecting portion 5c comprises at least four strands of the line element 5. The connecting portion 5 comprises twice as many strands as the loop 5b. Preferably, each strand of the connecting portion 5c is mounted to slide relative to the other strands.

[0068] Fig.15 The wire element 5 is shown folded so as to define a U-shape (two legs 5a connected by a connecting portion 5c). The two legs 5a are terminated by a loop 5b at the end opposite to the connecting portion 5c. The two legs 5a are deformed so that the loops 5b face each other to define a through hole.

[0069] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown, the wire element 5 is in the form of a loop which is folded and shaped to form a U-shape. The two legs 5a are close to each other and the connecting portion 5c defines a loop with a through hole to define the annular end 2 of the clamping device. When the loop 5b is attached to the anchor, the force exerted on the connecting portion 5c has the effect of stressing the plurality of strands which connect the connecting portion 5c and the anchor. The wire element 5 ensures tensile strength.

[0070] The loop 5b is fixed to the head 1 and the connecting portion 5c delimits the through hole of the ring end 2. The strands of the thread element 5 ensure mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the ring end 2. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because the attachment of the head 1 to the thread element 5 is performed using the loop 5b. It is not necessary to use knots, splicing steps, sewing, crimping or any other technical step that changes the mechanical integrity of the thread element 5 to fix the thread element 5 to the head 1.

[0071] The wire element 5 at least partially delimits the through hole of the ring end 2 by means of the connecting portion 5c, thereby avoiding a specific loop that must be formed by a knot, a splicing step, a sewing, a crimping or any other technical step that changes the mechanical integrity of the wire element 5. In order to protect the wire element 5, in the ring end 2, the rod 8 can be formed by several parts. The wire element 5 can pass through a reinforcement 9, which is advantageously in contact with the main part of the rod 8 to prevent access to the wire element 5. The use of a rod formed by at least two parts makes the installation of the wire element in the rod 8 easier to perform. The wire element 5 is in the form of a ring, which is folded to define the legs 5a, the loop 5b and the connecting portion 5c. The wire element 5 passes through the reinforcement 9 so that the reinforcement 9 covers the connecting portion 5c. The legs leave the reinforcement via two ends. The two legs are inserted through one end of the main part of the rod 8 until they leave through the top end designed to be inserted into the head 1. The loop 5b leaves the rod 8. The loop 5b is attached to the head 1. This embodiment is advantageous because the main part of the rod can only define a single through hole in the XX direction. As an alternative, the main part and the reinforcement may be non-removable. The reinforcement defines a through hole, each end of which opens to the main part having a common hole or a specific hole. This embodiment is less advantageous because the wire element is less easy to install. Other configurations of the rod made of several parts can also be provided, but they appear less advantageous in terms of mechanical strength, ease of use and / or manufacturing costs.

[0072] The wire element 5 has at least two loops 5b attached to the head 1, i.e. directly attached to the head 1, and connected by a strand extending continuously along the rod 8 and defining a through hole of the annular end 2. The annular wire element 5 ensures the mechanical continuity of the clamping device. This solution is more advantageous than the solution proposed in document US 10,143,892, which uses a splicing step to form the loop after the rod has been installed.

[0073] Fig.16 Another type of folding the wire element 5 into a loop shape is shown. The head 1 and the loop end 2 are connected by more than four strands of the wire element 5. In the configuration shown, the head 1 and the loop end 2 are connected by eight strands. The wire element defines four legs 5a (a leg is formed by two strands), each leg forming a loop. Other arrangements are possible.

[0074] To ensure good strength, the loop preferably has no knots in the legs 5a and / or the head 1. The loop 5b is extended at its ends by strands coming from or extending up to the loop end 2, rather than by knots formed at the ends of the thread element 5.

[0075] Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig.11 , Fig.12 and Fig.15 A loop is shown which is folded once to form four strands of a thread element 5 connecting the loop end 2 and the head 1. The loop of the thread element 5 may use different types of folding to define a connecting portion 5c capable of delimiting at least the loop end 2 and extending at least two legs 5a designed to extend as far as the head 1 and terminated by a loop 5b to be fixed to the head 1.

[0076] At least four strands of the thread element 5 pass through the rod 8 between the head 1 and the loop 2. The four strands have mechanical continuity by means of the connecting portion 5c and the loop 5b. The connecting portion 5c ensures mechanical continuity between the legs 5a. Preferably, the seam is located in the connecting portion 5c in order to limit the occupation of the volume of the head 1 or near the head 1.

[0077] Each loop 5b present in the head 1 is fixed to the head 1. Preferably, each anchor between the loop 5b and the head 1 allows the sliding of the wire element 5 relative to the head 1. When the wire element 5 is tensioned, the tensioning force is balanced between the strands due to the sliding of the loop 5b. Preferably, the connecting portion 5c allows the different strands to slide relative to each other, so that it is easier to balance the forces.

[0078] Applying a tensile stress between the head 1 and the looped end 2 has the effect of tensioning the wire element 5, in particular the at least four strands of the wire element 5 connecting the head 1 to the looped end 2. Increasing the number of strands ensures a better trade-off between tensile strength in the XX direction, space occupied within the rod 8 and flexibility perpendicular to the XX direction.

[0079] Document US2004 / 0035992 uses a band loop flexibly mounted in a hollow rod. The maximum length of the loop corresponds substantially to half the length of the band. When the loop is manufactured, there are differences in the cut length of the band and the length / position of the seam relative to the desired values. When several loops are manufactured, this results in the length of the loop being dispersed around the target value. Before use, the cam clamp is suspended by the band. The difference in the loop length results in the cam clamp being not identical and interchangeable as expected, which can complicate the removal of the cam clamp. The use of a wire element folded to form a U-shape has the effect of dividing the final result of the manufacturing uncertainty in the final length between the anchor of the head and the ring end by at least two.

[0080] Document US 10,143,892 uses a single loop made of textile material formed by splicing. Again, the use of a thread element folded to form a U-shape has the effect of dividing by two the final result of the manufacturing uncertainty in the final length between the anchor and the loop end of the head compared to the prior art. It is also important to emphasize that the splicing step is long and expensive compared to fixing by a single seam, in which the two strands are arranged on top of each other instead of in each other, i.e. without splicing.

[0081] exist Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig.11 and Fig.12 , the leg 5a is deformed by an angle equal to 90%, so that the through hole defined by the ring 5b is offset by 90° relative to the through hole defined by the connecting portion 5c. The offset angle can be represented by the angle existing between the observed middle cutting planes of the ring. The offset of the angle is a pivoting about the XX axis.

[0082] Different embodiments may secure the loop 5 b of the wire element 5 to the head 1 .

[0083] In a particular embodiment, the head 1 has at least one anchor 6, such as an anchoring shaft. The loop 5b is attached to the at least one anchor 6 to achieve mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the wire element 5. Preferably, the wire element 5 passes around the anchor 6 to achieve mechanical continuity with the ring end 2. More preferably, the loop 5b strangles the anchor 6 to achieve mechanical continuity.

[0084] exist Figures 1 to 13 In the illustrated embodiment, different configurations of attachment of the wire element 5 to the head 1 are shown.

[0085] Figures 2 to 9 An embodiment is shown in which the loops 5b extending the legs 5a form two offset parallel planes. The loops 5b are mounted facing each other in a direction perpendicular to the parallel planes to form a through hole. The anchor 6 of the head 1 passes through the loops 5b to fix the wire element 5 to the head 1. A configuration with two loops 5b or more than two loops 5b is possible.

[0086] Figures 2 to 5 An embodiment is shown in which the loops 5b present at the ends of the legs 5a of the ring are mounted facing each other in a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX. The anchoring axis passes through the two loops 5b in a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX. The anchoring axis is fixed to the body 1a. In a preferred manner, the anchoring axis is different from the pivot axis or axes 4 of at least one cam 3.

[0087] It is particularly advantageous to have an anchor 6 mounted movably relative to the head 1 in order to have an easily replaceable line element 5. Removal of the anchor 6 eliminates the attachment between the line element 5 and the head 1, thereby enabling the line element 5 to be replaced.

[0088] In a preferred manner, the anchor 6 is detachable relative to the head 1, preferably without interacting with the one or more pivot axes 4 of the at least one cam 3. In another embodiment, the anchor 6 is breakable independently of the one or more pivot axes 4 of the at least one cam 3. This ensures that the replacement of the thread element 5 can be performed by acting on the anchor 6 without interacting with the pivot axis 4 of the at least one cam 3 and thus limiting interactions that could tend to modify the movement of the at least one cam 3 relative to the head 1. To facilitate attachment to the anchor 6, it is advantageous if the anchor 6 is arranged between the pivot axis 4 of the at least one cam 3 and the annular end 2.

[0089] The anchor 6 is advantageously an anchoring shaft, ie a rod which is inserted into the body 1a to fix the collar 5b. The anchoring shaft advantageously has a circular cross section and advantageously has a smooth surface.

[0090] For example, the anchoring shaft is fixed by screwing, crimping or riveting to the body 1a of the head 1. The anchoring shaft extends mainly in a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0091] In this embodiment, it is advantageous to have a head 1 defining a blind hole to prevent the wire element 5 from Figure 2 It is shown through the head 1 in a first direction XX. The head 1 may be covered by a cover 1 b which is removably mounted relative to the body 1 a, thereby ensuring that the loop 5 b can be accessed to check the wear of the thread element 5. This also makes it easier to perform the installation of the loop 5 b in the head 1, for example centering relative to the anchoring axis when performing the installation.

[0092] When installing the wire element 5, the loop 5b extending the leg 5a of the wire element 5 is inserted into the head 1. The anchoring shaft passes through the loop 5b and is fixed to the body 1a of the head 1 to achieve mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the ring end 2.

[0093] in particular Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the body 1 a defines a hole and the anchor 6 is inserted into the body 1 a in a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX (eg, direction YY).

[0094] To replace the line element 5, the anchor 6 is removed and a pulling force is applied in the first direction XX on the line element 5. The rod 8 is kept or replaced, as the case may be. A new line element 5 is mounted through the rod using the loop 5b inserted into the head 1. The anchor 6 or a new anchor 6 passes through the loop 5b and is fixed to the head 1 to attach the line element 5 to the head 1.

[0095] Replacement of the wire element 5 is easy and does not require any action on the cam 3 , the pivot shaft(s) 4 or the trigger 7 .

[0096] In an alternative embodiment, the head 1 has a body 1a and the pivot axis 4 is fixed to the body 1a. The head 1 also has a cover 1b, which is removably mounted relative to the body 1a. The ring 5b is directly fixed to the cover 1b. For example, the cover 1b can be provided with a hook that receives the ring 5b. The anchor is formed by the hook of the cover 1b.

[0097] In another alternative, the anchor 6 is removably mounted from the head 1 in a first direction XX. When the cover 1 b is fixed to the body 1 a, the anchor 6 is not removable. When the cover 1 b is removed, the anchor 6 can be removed to install or remove the ring 5 b. The body 1 a defines a housing for the anchor 6 and the cover 1 b encloses the anchor 6 in the housing. The anchor 6 may be a rod firmly held at both ends by the body 1 a, which rod forms an end-of-travel stop in the direction of the ring end 2, in the direction XX.

[0098] In an alternative embodiment, the loop 5b may leave the head 1 to bypass one or more pivot axes 4 and be attached to an anchor 6 fixed to the head 1. Each loop 5b may be fixed to a specific anchor 6, or all loops 5b may be attached to the same anchor 6, which increases compactness. Figure 6 A side view of this embodiment can be shown with the loop 5b leaving from one side of the head 1 and fixed to the Figure 2 Anchor 6 is substantially the same as the anchor shown in FIG.

[0099] These embodiments are advantageous because they make it possible to use loops 5b of reduced size. Fixing the wire element 5 on the head 1 involves a small length of slack to perform the attachment on the head 1. The variation in length can be easily absorbed by a rod 8 deformable in the XX direction, for example with a deformable reinforcement 9 or any other suitable means.

[0100] In another embodiment, the legs 5a pass through the rod 8 and emerge from the head 1. Figures 6 to 9 In this alternative embodiment shown, the loop 5b of the extension leg 5a is passed through by at least one pivot axis 4 of at least one cam 3. Preferably, the loop 5b is passed through by all the pivot axes 4 of the cams 3.

[0101] This configuration can be obtained by disassembling the pivot shaft 4 to insert the pivot shaft 4 into the ring 5b. As an alternative, the pivot shaft 4 with the cam 3 is inserted into the ring 5b. The additional wire element 11 connecting the cam 3 to the trigger 7 is detachable to remove it and then reinstall it so that the ring 5b surrounds the pivot shaft 4 without interacting with the actuation system of the cam 3. Preferably, either the connection between the additional wire element 11 and the cam 3 or the connection between the additional wire element 11 and the trigger 7 is removable. As an alternative, the trigger 7 is separable.

[0102] Advantageously, the head 1 defines two opposite grooves 1c in a direction perpendicular to the first direction XX and perpendicular to the second direction YY. The head 1 is separated in the XX direction. The groove 1c ensures that the strands of the line element 5 can pass through. The loops 5b leave the rod 8 and move away from each other in the YY direction. The assembly formed by the pivot shaft 4 and the cam 3 passes through the two belts 5b. The belts move towards each other to return to the queue of the rod 8. The strands pass through the groove 1c. The connection between the cam 3 and the trigger 7 is reestablished. The loop 5b surrounds the pivot shaft 4, ensuring mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the ring end 2. In a preferred manner, the body 1a is interposed between the loop 5b and the pivot shaft 4 to avoid direct contact between the line element 5 and the pivot shaft 4. This avoids having to change the behavior of the pivot shaft 4 according to the tension present in the line element 5.

[0103] Fig. 9 The path of the strands defining two loops 5 b is shown in top view, which loops 5 b pass around two pivot axes 4 and are arranged between the pair of cams 3 in the YY direction.

[0104] exist Figures 10 to 13 In the embodiment shown, the legs 5a extend outside the head 1, for example at the top of the head 1 in the direction XX opposite the annular end 2. The loops 5b are arranged to each form a double knot strangling the body 1a and possibly one or more pivot axes 4.

[0105] To form the double knot, loop 5b is moved away from head 1 in a direction away from ring end 2. Ring end 2 is then passed through loop 5b. By pulling ring end 2, a double knot is formed that entraps body 1a and ensures mechanical continuity between head 1 and ring end 2. Figures 10 to 13 In the embodiment shown, the two loops 5b leave from the head and choke the body 1a along opposite paths. Fig.13 Indicated by thick arrows. Fig.11 and Fig.12 According to Fig.10The shape of the wire element 5 in two different views of the configuration of FIG. Each loop 5 b leaves the head 1 on the opposite side of the loop end 2 before being passed through by the loop end 2. In a preferred manner, each loop 5 b passes around one or more pivot axes 4 before being passed through by the loop end 2. The double knot is around one or more pivot axes 4.

[0106] To obtain a substantially equivalent result, the direction adopted may be that of the dashed arrow, ie with an angular offset equal to 90° about the XX direction. A removable trigger needs to be provided, or an additional wire element 11 removable relative to the trigger or relative to the cam 3 needs to be provided.

[0107] In an advantageous manner, the clamping device comprises two pivot axes 4 and the ring 5b exits from the body 1a, the ring passing between the two pivot axes 4, as Fig.13 shown.

[0108] In a particular embodiment, the rod 8 has an adjustable length in the XX direction. The adjustment of the length ensures that an increased length of the wire element 5 can be provided relative to the rod 8 during the assembly phase, for example to form a double knot or to bypass the cam 3. Once the loop 5b has been attached to the head 1, the length of the rod 8 is increased to absorb the excess wire element 5. This allows better ergonomics between the head 1 and the loop end 2 without changing the tensile strength between the head 1 and the loop end 2.

[0109] The length-adjustable rod 8 may be a telescopic rod. However, other embodiments are possible.

[0110] The embodiment shown in the figures makes it easy to remove, changing at least one of the following components: the wire element 5 or the rod 8. In an advantageous embodiment, the rod 8 is removable relative to the head 1, which enables the rod 8 to be replaced when it is damaged.

[0111] 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 wire element 5 is increased significantly, an extension of the trigger 7 can be envisaged.

[0112] In a particular embodiment, the rod 8 has a tapered end which facilitates the formation of a relatively large loop in the annular end 2 .

[0113] The rod 8 is preferably made of a polymer material so as to be able to bend in one or more directions perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0114] In the embodiment shown, the cam clamp is shown with four cams 3. More or fewer cams 3 can be used. The configuration shown for mounting of the line element 5 is applicable to clamps comprising one, two, three, four or more cams 3. The number of cams 3 can be even or odd. The cams 3 are preferably made of metal, for example of an aluminum alloy or steel.

[0115] Figures 1 to 13 The embodiments shown in are particularly advantageous because they enable the replacement of the thread element 5 providing mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the ring end 2 without having to dismantle the assembly formed by the body 1a, the pivot shaft 4 and the cam 3. This enables increased safety by preventing incorrect reinstallation of the head 1. Furthermore, the loop of the thread element 5 is manufactured in the factory with a well-mastered sewing method, thereby ensuring good mechanical impedance of the thread element 5.

[0116] Document US2004 / 0035992 discloses a cam wedge provided with a single band ring. This ring is passed by the pivot axis of the cam and extends through the hollow rod so as to open on the other side of the rod. The band ring is installed without tension, so that the band end may come off at the head and be damaged. In order to place the wedge in the crack, it is necessary to hold the rod by placing the index and middle fingers on the two ends of the trigger and the thumb on the end of the rod opposite the head. When the band is installed freely, it is expected that the thumb will press the two thicknesses of the band against the end of the rod. This configuration is impractical and leads to premature wear of the band that is systematically pressed against the rod.

[0117] It is also obvious that, according to the teaching of document US2004 / 0035992, the replacement of the belt loop necessarily requires the removal of the pivot axis, which means a good mastery of the reassembly process. As an alternative, the belt is cut and then a new belt is inserted before performing a stitching step that will define a loop providing mechanical continuity. Likewise, the stitching process must be perfectly mastered, which makes it difficult for the end user to perform maintenance operations. There is no configuration in the prior art that enables the end user to correctly master the maintenance of the cam wedge. It should also be emphasized that the change in the length of the textile loop requires the use of a spring in order to move the annular end away from the rod to stretch the line element. From the configuration shown in document US2004 / 0035992, it is obvious that the replacement of the textile loop requires a splicing step to be performed after the two springs have been installed, which makes the replacement operation of the belt almost impossible for an ordinary user.

Claims

1. A cam clamping device, comprising: A head (1), the head (1) having at least one cam (3), at least one pivot axis (4) and at least one spring (10), the at least one cam (3) being mounted to be movable and rotatable about the at least one pivot axis (4), the at least one cam (3) being movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the at least one spring (10) being functionally coupled to the at least one cam (3) to bias the at least one cam (3) to the extended position; an annular end (2) mechanically coupled to the head (1), the annular end (2) defining a through hole; at least one thread element (5) mechanically connecting the head (1) and the ring-shaped end (2), the at least one thread element (5) being in the form of a ring; an actuation system coupled to the at least one cam (3), the actuation system being configured to selectively engage a retracted position, the actuation system having a trigger (7) slidably mounted along a first direction (XX) connecting the head (1) and the ring-shaped end (2); Cam clamping device, characterized in that the ring is folded to define at least two legs (5a), each leg (5a) comprising a top end, a bottom end and two strands; The two strands are joined at the top end to form a loop (5b) attached to the head (1), And the bottom end of each leg (5a) is extended by a connecting portion (5c), which connects the legs (5a) to each other, defines the through hole, and includes at least four strands of the wire element (5).

2. The cam clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The loops of the thread element (5) are loops made of textile material.

3. The cam clamping device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that: Each ring (5b) is mounted slidably relative to the head (1).

4. The cam clamping device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that: Each strand of the connecting portion (5c) is slidably mounted relative to the other strands.

5. The cam clamping device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that: The loop of the thread element (5) is obtained by sewing the two terminal ends of the thread element (5) to each other, the sewing being located in the connecting portion (5c).

6. Cam clamp according to any one of claims 1 and 2, comprising a rod (8) extending from the head (1) up to the annular end (2), and characterized in that The rod (8) is hollow and is traversed by the same number of strands as in the connecting portion (5c).

7. The cam clamping device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The length of the rod (8) in the first direction (XX) is adjustable.

8. The cam clamping device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that: Each loop (5b) is attached to at least one anchor (6) mounted in a removable manner relative to the head (1).

9. The cam clamping device according to claim 8, characterized in that: An anchor (6) passes through at least two loops (5b).

10. The cam clamping device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The removable anchor (6) is located at a distance from at least one pivot axis (4) and between the at least one pivot axis (4) and the annular end (2) in a first direction (XX).

11. The cam clamping device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that: The head (1) has a body (1a) supporting the at least one pivot axis (4), and wherein each loop (5b) passes around the at least one pivot axis (4) to attach the wire element (5) to the head (1), and wherein the head (1) is permeable to allow the loop (5b) to pass through.

12. The cam clamping device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that: The head (1) has a body (1a) supporting the at least one pivot axis (4), the body (1a) being permeable for passing the loops (5b), and wherein the loops (5b) each form a double knot that strangles the body (1a) to secure the wire element (5) to the head (1).

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