Rope clamping device

Abstract

A rope clamping device comprises a main body (1) with a stop (2) and a rotating cam (5). A first spring (6) has two ends functionally connected to the cam (5) and the body, respectively, by a first mechanical connection and a second mechanical connection. The first spring (6) prevents the cam (5) from moving away from the stopper (2) when the selector switch (10) is in the actuated position. When the selector switch (10) is in the unlocked position, the first spring (6) does not prevent the cam (5) from moving away from the stop (2) or prevents the cam (5) from moving towards the stop (2). In the unlocked position, the selector switch (10) cancels one of the first and second mechanical connections or reverses both mechanical connections.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In mountain climbing and other mountaineering activities, it is common to have a belay device in which the rope that attaches the climber to the belay device runs. The belay device must solve two different problems. The belay device must be easy to use, i.e. it must be easy to run the rope in the belay device to provide the climber with rope, or conversely, it must be easy to pull up the rope quickly. Therefore, there is a need for a rope running path that presents low friction.

[0003] There is also a need for a belay device that is safety oriented, provides adjustable rope braking when the climber is descending and / or provides auxiliary clamping. It is also important for the belay device to obtain effective clamping of the rope and preferably clamp in response to slippage of the rope that indicates a fall. It is also advantageous for the belay device to be tolerant of misoperation and, most importantly, not too complicated to handle.

[0004] There is a cam-assisted belay device having a movable cam that can rotate. The cam rotates between a first position, in which the rope is clamped between the cam and a clamping area, and a second position, in which the distance between the cam and the clamping area is greater than the diameter of the rope, thereby allowing the rope to slide. The rope runs inside the belay device and slides along the cam, causing friction. The shape of the cam and the shape of the rope running path in the belay device define the friction intensity of the rope. In order to provide the climber with the rope, a certain flexibility must be obtained to avoid that the cam rotates and thus hinders the rope from sliding. The friction intensity varies depending on the diameter and degree of wear of the rope. The applicant has developed a cam-assisted belay device under the trade name Selling this device.

[0005] The two technical requirements mentioned above are quite contradictory, due to the fact that to provide an adjustable brake or auxiliary rope clamping, it is necessary to have a component that is in continuous contact with the rope and has sufficient friction to detect the running condition of the rope in the belay device, and the friction must be reduced when the rope is provided to the climber. Therefore, when manufacturing a belay device, a trade-off must be made between safety and practicality of use.

[0006] This trade-off is even more difficult to find when the belay device must also be used for top rope belaying, i.e. the climber is tied to the rope that passes through the top of the climbing route. As the climber gradually ascends the route, the rope is tightened, while the opposite operation is performed for the lead climber. Therefore, there should be a rope movement that does not lead to systematic clamping of the rope. Utility Model Content

[0007] An object of the utility model is to provide a rope clamping device equipped with a movable cam having a working mode better adapted to different climbing phases depending on whether the climber is the lead climber or in the top rope position.

[0008] These disadvantages are intended to be addressed by a rope clamping device comprising:

[0009] - a body having a stop;

[0010] - a first pivot axis fixed to the body;

[0011] a locking cam mounted to rotate about a first pivot axis, the locking cam being mounted to be movable relative to the stop between a first position and a second position, the second position being further away from the stop than the first position;

[0012] a first spring having a first end and a second end, one of the first end and the second end being functionally connected to the locking cam via a first support and the other of the first end and the second end being functionally connected to the body via a second support;

[0013] - A handle mounted so as to be movable relative to the body and fixed to the locking cam so as to rotate it.

[0014] The clamping device is notable in that the selector switch is fixed to the body and is mounted so as to be movable relative to the body between an unlocked position and an actuated position.

[0015] When the selector switch is in the actuated position, the first spring prevents the locking cam from rotating in a direction corresponding to movement of the locking cam away from the stop.

[0016] When the selector switch is in the unlocked position, the first spring does not prevent the locking cam from rotating in a direction corresponding to the locking cam moving away from the stopper, or prevents the locking cam from rotating in a direction corresponding to the locking cam moving toward the stopper.

[0017] In the unlocked position, the selector switch eliminates one of the first support and the second support or reverses the first support and the second support.

[0018] According to one feature of the present invention, when the selector switch is in the unlocked position and the locking cam is in the second position, the locking cam is not functionally connected to the first spring, so that the locking cam can move independently of the first spring.

[0019] In a preferred manner, the selector switch has a blocking member which catches the second end of the first spring at a distance from the locking cam.

[0020] Advantageously, when the locking cam is in the first position, the second end of the first spring prevents the selector switch from moving from the actuated position to the unlocked position.

[0021] In certain embodiments, when the locking cam is in the second position, the second end of the first spring prevents the selector switch from moving from the actuated position to the unlocked position.

[0022] Preferably, the second end of the first spring allows the selector switch to move from the actuated position to the unlocked position when the locking cam is in a third position, the third position being further away from the stop than the second position.

[0023] Advantageously, the second end of the first spring prevents the selector switch from moving from the unlocked position to the actuated position when the locking cam is in the first position, and / or the second end of the first spring prevents the selector switch from moving from the unlocked position to the actuated position when the locking cam is in the second position.

[0024] In a particular embodiment, the clamping device comprises a control device which is mounted to be movable between a clamping position and a release position. In the clamping position, the control device blocks the selector switch in the actuated position.

[0025] According to another feature, the first spring is a torsion spring passed through by the first pivot axis.

[0026] Preferably, the selector switch is mounted to rotate about the first pivot. In the actuated position, the pin of the selector switch is arranged to press against the first end of the first spring at a distance from the second end of the first spring. In the locked position, the pin of the selector switch is arranged to press against the second end of the first spring at a distance from the first end of the first spring.

[0027] Preferably, when the selector switch is in the actuated position and the locking cam is in the first position, the first end and the second end define an angle less than 90° and the pin of the selector switch sits between the first end and the second end in a surface defined by the angle.

[0028] Preferably, the clamping device includes a second spring having a first end fixed to the locking cam and a second end fixed to the body, the second spring applying a force preventing the first spring from rotating from the third position to the first position, and the stiffness of the second spring is lower than the stiffness of the first spring. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] 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 which:

[0030] - Figure 1shows a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an actuated position;

[0031] - Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of an open rope clamping device for inserting a rope between two flanges;

[0032] - Figure 3 An exploded view of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device is shown;

[0033] - Figure 4 shows a schematic front view of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an actuated position;

[0034] - Figure 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an actuated position;

[0035] - Figure 6 shows a schematic front view of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an actuated position and a locking cam in a third position;

[0036] - Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an actuated position and a locking cam in a third position;

[0037] - Figure 8 shows a schematic front view of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position and the locking cam in the third position;

[0038] - Fig. 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view inside the cover of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position and the locking cam in the third position;

[0039] - Fig.10 shows a schematic front view of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in an unlocked position and the locking cam in a second position;

[0040] - Fig.11 shows a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover of a first embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an unlocked position and a locking cam in a second position;

[0041] - Fig.12 An exploded view of a second embodiment of a rope clamping device is shown;

[0042] - Fig.13shows a schematic front view of a second embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in an actuated position;

[0043] - Fig.14 shows a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover of a second embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an actuated position;

[0044] - Fig.15 shows a schematic front view of a second embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the actuated position and the locking cam in the third position;

[0045] - Fig.16 shows a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover of a second embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in an actuated position and the locking cam in a third position;

[0046] - Fig.17 shows a schematic front view of a second embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position and the locking cam in the third position;

[0047] - Fig.18 a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover showing a second embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position and the locking cam in the third position;

[0048] - Fig.19 shows a schematic front view of a second embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position and the locking cam in the second position;

[0049] - Fig. 20 a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover showing a second embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position and the locking cam in the second position;

[0050] - Fig.21 shows an exploded view of a third embodiment of a rope clamping device;

[0051] - Fig. 22 shows a schematic front view of a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the actuated position and the movable control device in the clamping position;

[0052] - Fig.23 a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover showing a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in an actuated position and the movable control device in a clamping position;

[0053] - Fig.24shows a schematic front view of a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in an actuated position and the movable control device in a released position;

[0054] - Fig.25 a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover showing a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an actuated position and a movable control device in a released position;

[0055] - Fig.26 shows a schematic front view of a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the actuated position, the locking cam in the third position, and the movable control device in the released position;

[0056] - Fig. 27 a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover showing a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the actuated position, the locking cam in the third position, and the movable control device in the released position;

[0057] - Fig.28 shows a schematic front view of a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position, the locking cam in the third position, and the movable control device in the released position;

[0058] - Fig.29 a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover showing a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position, the locking cam in the third position, and the movable control in the released position;

[0059] - Fig.30 shows a schematic front view of a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the released position, the locking cam in the second position, and the movable control device in the released position;

[0060] - Fig.31 a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover showing a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position, the locking cam in the second position, and the movable control device in the released position;

[0061] - Fig.32 shows a schematic front view of a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position, the locking cam in the second position, and the movable control device in the clamping position;

[0062] - Fig.33 a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover showing a third embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position, the locking cam in the second position, and the movable control device in the clamping position;

[0063] - Fig.34 shows an exploded view of a fourth embodiment of a rope clamping device;

[0064] - Fig.35 shows a schematic front view of a fourth embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in an actuated position;

[0065] - Fig.36 shows a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover of a fourth embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch in an actuated position;

[0066] - Fig.37 shows a schematic front view of a fourth embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch between an actuated position and an unlocked position;

[0067] - Fig.38 shows a schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover of a fourth embodiment of a rope clamping device with a selector switch between an actuated position and an unlocked position;

[0068] - Fig.39 shows a schematic front view of a fourth embodiment of a rope clamping device with the selector switch in the unlocked position and the locking cam in the third position;

[0069] - Fig.40 A schematic cross-sectional view inside a cover of a fourth embodiment of a rope clamping device is shown with the selector switch in the unlocked position and the locking cam in the third position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] The rope clamping device comprises a body 1 provided with a stopper 2. The stopper 2 forms a clamping area in which the strands of a rope A are designed to be clamped. The rope clamping device comprises a first pivot axis 3 fixed to the body 1, preferably fixedly mounted on the body 1. The body 1 defines a path designed to receive the strands of a rope.

[0071] In a specific embodiment, the body 1 has a first flange 1 a and a second flange 1 b , and the second flange 1 b is movably or removably mounted relative to the first flange 1 a . Figure 1 , Figures 4 to 11 , Figures 13 to 20 , Figures 22 to 33 and Figures 35 to 40 A closed body is shown, ie having two flanges delimiting a cavity designed to receive the strands of a cord A. Figure 2The open body is shown, wherein the second flange 1b is offset relative to the first flange 1a. In the embodiment shown, the second flange 1b is mounted to rotate relative to the first flange 1a. The second flange 1b is mounted to rotate about a body pivot 4 fixed to the first flange 1a. In an alternative embodiment, the second flange 1b may be mounted to rotate about the first pivot axis 3.

[0072] The rope clamping device comprises a locking cam 5, which is mounted to rotate about a first pivot axis 3. The locking cam 5 is mounted to be movable between a first position, a second position and a third position relative to a stopper 2. The third position of the locking cam 5 is further away from the stopper 2 than the second position, and the second position is further away from the stopper 2 than the first position. The second position is located between the first position and the third position. The first position is designed to clamp the strands of a rope A running in a path within the body 1. The locking cam 5 rotates within the body 1 to move away from or toward the stopper 2. In the second position and the third position, the locking cam 5 is designed to allow the rope A to slide within the body 1. The running path bypasses the locking cam 5, and a portion of the side wall of the path is formed by the locking cam 5, so that the sliding of the rope A in the body 1 exerts a force on the locking cam 5, causing the locking cam 5 to rotate in the first direction or the second direction.

[0073] Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Fig.13 , Fig.14 , Fig. 22 , Fig.23 , Fig.24 , Fig.25 , Fig.35 and Fig.36 The locking cam 5 is shown in a first position. Fig.37 and 38 The locking cam 5 is shown in the second position. Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.11 , Fig.15 , Fig.16 , Fig.17 , Fig.18 , Fig.19 , Fig. 20 , Fig.26 , Fig. 27 , Fig.28 , Fig.29 , Fig.30 , Fig.31 , Fig.32 , Fig.33 , Fig.39 and Fig.40 The locking cam 5 is shown in a third position.

[0074] The clamping device comprises a first spring 6 having a first end 6a and a second end 6b. One of the first end 6a and the second end 6b is functionally connected to the locking cam 5 by a first mechanical connection, for example, the first end 6a is pressed on the locking cam 5 or attached to the locking cam 5. The other of the first end 6a and the second end 6b is functionally connected to the body 1 by a second mechanical connection, for example, the second end 6b is pressed on the body 1 or attached to the body 1. The first spring 6 is mechanically connected to the body 1 and the locking cam 5. In one operating mode, the rotation of the locking cam 5 relative to the body 1 causes a deformation of the first spring 6. If no external stress is applied, the first spring 6 is biased to reach its minimum stress state and moves the locking cam 5 to the first position. In other words, rotating the locking cam 5 causes the first spring 6 to load. Each position of the locking cam 5 corresponds to a specific deformation of the first spring 6. The farther the locking cam 5 is from the stopper 2, the greater the deformation of the first spring 6, that is, the stress on the first spring 6 is farther from the minimum stress state.

[0075] The first spring 6 is mechanically stressed between the first end 6a and the second end 6b. The rotation of the locking cam 5 exerts a force on the first spring 6. The first spring 6 exerts an opposing force which tends to bias the locking cam 5 to the first position.

[0076] In an advantageous embodiment, the first spring 6 and the locking cam 5 are separated by a portion of the body 1, for example by one of the first flange 1a and the second flange 1b. The body 1 defines an aperture 1c, and the pin 7 of the locking cam 5 passes through the aperture 1c. The pin 7 moves along the aperture 1c between the first position and the third position. Preferably, when the locking cam 5 is in the position as shown in FIG. Figure 5 , Fig.14 , Fig.23 , Fig.25 and Fig.36 In the first position shown, the pin 7 is pressed against one end of the orifice 1c. Preferably, if no external stress is applied, the first spring 6 applies a force that presses the pin 7 against one end of the orifice 1c. As an alternative, one end of the first spring 6 passes through the orifice 1c and presses against the side wall of one hole of the locking cam 5. When the locking cam 5 leaves the first position, the side wall presses against the end of the first spring 6. In another alternative, the first spring 6 and the locking cam 5 are located on the same side of the flange.

[0077] The handle 8 is fixed to the locking cam 5, preferably fixed relative to the body 1 at a distance from the pivot axis of the locking cam 5. The handle 8 is mounted to be movable relative to the body 1 to follow the rotation of the locking cam 5. Preferably, the handle 8 is fixed to the locking cam 5 via a second pivot axis 9. The second pivot axis 9 is stationary relative to the locking cam 5 so as to rotate around the first pivot axis 3. The handle 8 can be mounted to be movable between a stowed position and an actuated position in a manner known per se. The switch from the stowed position to the actuated position is achieved by rotating the handle 8 in a first direction. In the different figures, only the stowed position is shown. In the actuated position, the handle 8 is pressed against the stop formed by the locking cam 5, so that the rotation of the handle 8 in the first direction causes the locking cam 5 to rotate in the direction of the first position, i.e., in a direction that moves the stop 2 and the locking cam 5 toward each other.

[0078] The rope clamping device also includes a selector switch 10, which is fixed to the body 1 and is movable between an unlocked position and an actuated position. The behavior of the locking cam 5 relative to the body 1 is different depending on whether the selector switch 10 is in the unlocked position or in the actuated position. The selector switch 10 can be mounted to be operable in translation or by rotation or using any other shifting mode. Figures 1 to 11 The selector switch 10 is shown mounted so as to be capable of translational movement, while Figures 12 to 40 A selector switch 10 is shown which is mounted in a rotatable manner. In the embodiment shown, the selector switch 10 is mounted to be movable relative to the body 1 in a direction of movement perpendicular to the pivot axis of the locking cam 5. However, another direction of movement is possible, for example along the pivot axis of the locking cam 5.

[0079] The selector switch 10 is mounted to be movable relative to the first spring 6 so as to modify the behavior of the first spring 6 depending on whether the selector switch 10 is in the unlocked position or in the actuated position. In the actuated position, the first spring 6 prevents the locking cam 5 from rotating in a direction corresponding to the movement of the locking cam 5 away from the stop 2. The operation of the spring 6 is the same as known. In the actuated position, the selector switch 10 does not modify the operation of the first spring 6 relative to the known. In other words, the movement of the locking cam 5 adjusts the deformation of the first spring 6. Preferably, in the actuated position, the first spring 6 does not have any contact with the selector switch 10, as shown in FIG. Figures 3 to 33 In the unlocked position, the selector switch 10 eliminates one of the first mechanical connection and the second mechanical connection, or reverses the first mechanical connection and the second mechanical connection. This modifies the behavior of the first spring 6 and thus the behavior of the locking cam 5 relative to the movement of the rope A.

[0080] In the unlocked position, the behavior of the first spring 6 is modified. The first spring 6 exerts no force on the locking cam 5 that prevents rotation in a direction corresponding to the movement of the locking cam 5 away from the stop 2. In the unlocked position, the selector switch 10 does not prevent the locking cam 5 from rotating in one direction or the other.

[0081] exist Figures 3 to 33 In the embodiment shown, when the selector switch 10 is in the actuated position, the first spring 6 is activated, that is, the locking cam 5 causes the first spring 6 to deform according to the rotation of the locking cam 5. In the unlocked position, the selector switch 10 is designed to block the first spring 6 in a deformed state corresponding to the locking cam 5 being in the third position. In a preferred manner, when the selector switch 10 is in the unlocked position and the first spring 6 is stuck in a deformed state corresponding to the locking cam 5 being in the third position, the selector switch 10 eliminates one of the first mechanical connection and the second mechanical connection. In the embodiment shown, the first spring 6 is locked in a state of maximum or near maximum deformation.

[0082] exist Figures 1 to 33 In the embodiment shown, in the unlocked position, the selector switch 10 eliminates the mechanical connection between the locking cam 5 and the first spring 6. Figures 1 to 33 In the particular embodiment shown, the locking cam 5 moves between the first position and the second position without contacting the first spring 6. The movement of the locking cam 5 does not impose any deformation on the first spring 6. In the configuration shown, the first end 6a is blocked in a position corresponding to the locking cam 5 in the third position or in a position that can be at a distance from the position occupied by the locking cam 5. Figures 5 to 33 An embodiment is shown in which the first end 6a of the first spring 6 blocks on the pin 7. When the first spring 6 is locked in the deformed state corresponding to the second position or the third position, the locking cam 5 moves between the first position and the second position without contacting the first spring 6, thus eliminating the mechanical connection. The same result is obtained with the above alternative, in which the locking cam 5 defines a groove for receiving the first end of the first spring 6.

[0083] In a preferred manner, in the unlocked position, the selector switch 10 forms an obstruction 12 which blocks the end of the first spring 6 cooperating with the locking cam 5, which end is at a distance from the locking cam 5. Figures 1 to 33In the embodiment shown, the locking cam 5 has a pin 7 that moves in the aperture of the body, and the first end of the first spring 6 is advantageously blocked at one end of the aperture or outside the aperture to allow the pin 7 to move freely relative to the first spring 6. In an alternative embodiment, the first end 6a of the first spring 6 passes through the body 1 to be inserted into the aperture of the locking cam 5 and form a mechanical connection. The first end of the first spring 6 presses against the side wall so as to push the locking cam 5 towards the stopper 2. Advantageously, the locking cam 5 defines a groove, and the end of the first spring 6 moves away from the side wall in the groove without moving the locking cam 5. Clamping the first end 6a at a distance from the side wall enables the locking cam 5 to move without any action on the first spring 6.

[0084] In an alternative embodiment, in the actuated position, the selector switch 10 forms a mechanical connection between the first spring 6 and the body 1, such as a support wall for the second end 6b of the first spring 6. In the unlocked position, the selector switch 10 interrupts the mechanical connection between the first spring 6 and the body 1. When the locking cam 5 rotates between the first position and the third position, the first spring 6 rotates without deformation. The first spring 6 moves without applying a force that prevents the movement of the locking cam 5. In the released position, the switch selector 10 removes the support wall on which the second end 6b rests. In the absence of the support wall, the displacement of the locking cam 5 no longer causes a deformation of the first spring 6 depending on the position of the locking cam 5. The displacement of the locking cam 5 causes a displacement of the first end 6a and the second end 6b. Advantageously, the first end 6a is fixedly mounted with the locking cam 5.

[0085] exist Figures 34 to 40 In another alternative embodiment shown, the selector switch 10 reverses the first mechanical connection and the second mechanical connection when the selector switch 10 moves between the actuated position and the unlocked position. Fig.36 In the actuated position shown, the selector switch 10 forms an obstruction 12 and the second end 6b of the first spring 6 presses against the obstruction 12. The movement of the locking cam 5 in the first rotational direction, for example from the first position to the third position, deforms the first spring 6. For example, it moves by tension or by a movement equivalent to the extension of the spring. In the configuration shown, the movement of the locking cam 5 in the first rotational direction corresponds to the movement of the first end 6a away from the second end 6b.

[0086] exist Fig.40 In the unlocked position shown, the selector switch 10 forms an obstruction 12 and the first end 6a of the first spring 6 presses against the obstruction 12. The second end 6b is at a distance from the obstruction 12. Movement of the locking cam 5 in the second rotational direction, for example from the third position to the first position, deforms the first spring 6. For example, by means of tension or by means of a movement equivalent to the extension of the spring.

[0087] exist Figures 34 to 40 In the embodiment shown, the blocking member 12 moves between a first end and a second end. Preferably, the pin 7 of the locking cam 5 also moves between the first end and the second end, and the accessible distance of the pin 7 is less than the distance traveled by the blocking member 12 between the actuated position and the unlocked position. This enables the first spring 6 to work in one direction or the other, depending on the position of the selector switch 10.

[0088] In a particular embodiment, in the absence of any external stress, the movement of the selector switch 10 from the actuated position to the unlocked position causes the locking cam 5 to rotate from the first position to the third position. The selector switch 10 can be held in place relative to the body by means of a stopper 10a inserted into a recess of the body to prevent rotation of the handle from causing movement of the locking cam 5 and the selector switch 10. The stopper 10a can be a bolt or a rod with an elastic return device. Fig.34 The bolt associated with the nut 10b of the blocking device is shown. The nut and bolt enable the blocker 10a to be moved to be pressed into or extracted from a hole present in the body 1 and enable the selector switch 10 to be blocked in one of these two positions.

[0089] exist Figures 34 to 40 In the embodiment shown, the pin 7 protruding from the locking cam 5 and the blocking member 12 of the selector switch 10 preferentially rotate about the same pivot axis.

[0090] The activation or deactivation of the first spring 6 can be obtained in different ways, so that the locking cam 5 moves between the first position and the third position, thereby stressing or destressing the first spring 6. Figures 1 to 33 In the embodiment shown, the first spring 6 is deactivated while being held in a stressed position at one end of the pin 7 or outside the travel path, which stress position represents the movement of the locking cam 5. The same operation can be obtained by one end of the first spring 6 being pressed into the groove of the locking cam 5. In an alternative embodiment, the selector switch 10 can move all or part of the first spring 6 relative to the locking cam 5 and preferably relative to the body 1 in a direction parallel to the pivot axis of the locking cam 5. The movement of the first spring 6 can activate or deactivate the mechanical connection between the locking cam 5 and the first spring 6, thereby allowing or preventing mechanical contact between one end of the first spring 6 and a part of the locking cam 5. The same is true by moving the first spring 6 to form or eliminate the flexible connection between the other end of the first spring 6 and the body 1.

[0091] For reasons of compactness, it is advantageous not to move all springs in order to deactivate the first spring 6 .

[0092] In an advantageous embodiment, the selector switch 10 can only be moved from the actuated position to the unlocked position when the locking cam 5 is outside the first position, preferably between the second position and the third position, and more preferably only in the third position. When the locking cam 5 is in the first position, it is advantageous that the first end 6a of the first spring 6 prevents the selector switch 10 from moving from the actuated position to the unlocked position. This precaution prevents unintentional actuation of the selector switch 10. When the first spring 6 biases the locking cam 5 to the first position, it is necessary to make the rotation of the locking cam 5 act before the selector switch 10 moves to the unlocked position. For example, in the first position, the first end 6a of the spring 6 prevents the selector switch 10 from moving to the unlocked position. If applicable, it is preferred that the pin 7 prevents the selector switch 10 from moving to the unlocked position. Figures 4 to 11 The cover 16 containing the selector switch 10 is shown in side view and in cross-section, with the locking cam 5 rotated from the first position to the third position ( Figures 4 to 7 ), and then the selector switch 10 moves from the actuated position to the unlocked position ( Figures 6 to 9 ), then the locking cam 5 rotates from the third position to the second position, wherein the first end 6a of the first spring 6 is clamped by the selector switch 10 ( Figures 8 to 11 ). Figures 13 to 20 The cover 16 containing the selector switch 10 is shown in side view and in cross-section, with the locking cam 5 rotated from the first position to the third position ( Figures 13 to 16 ), and then the selector switch 10 moves from the actuated position to the unlocked position ( Figures 15 to 18 ), then the locking cam 5 rotates from the third position to the second position, wherein the first end 6a of the first spring 6 is clamped by the selector switch 10 ( Figures 17 to 20 ). Figures 22 to 33 A side view and a cross-sectional view of a cover 16 containing the selector switch 10 are shown. Figure 22 to Figure 25 The movement of the control device 11 from the clamping position to the releasing position is shown. Figure 24 to Figure 27 The rotation of the locking cam 5 from the first position to the third position is shown. Figure 26 to Figure 29 Movement of the selector switch 10 from an actuated position to an unlocked position is shown. Figure 28 to Figure 31 The locking cam 5 is shown rotated from the third position to the second position, wherein the first end 6 a of the first spring 6 is clamped by the selector switch 10 . Figure 30 to Figure 33 The movement of the control device 11 from the release position to the clamping position is shown.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the selector switch 10 is separated from the locking cam 5 by the flange 1b. The first spring 6 and at least a portion of the selector switch 10 and the locking cam 5 may be located on the same side of the flange 1b.

[0094] In with Figures 3 to 33In an embodiment compatible with the illustrated embodiment, the selector switch 10 may define an inclined surface, and when the locking cam 5 moves from the first position to the third position, the inclined surface allows the first end 6a of the first spring 6 to slide along the inclined surface. The inclined surface enables the obstruction 12 to be overcome only in one direction of movement corresponding to the first rotational direction. Once the locking cam 5 has reached the third position, the first end 6a is no longer able to move in the other direction and overcome the obstruction 12 of the selector switch 10 in the unlocked position. For example, when the locking cam 5 is in a predetermined position, such as outside the first position and the third position, the inclined surface can prevent movement from the actuated position to the unlocked position. As an alternative, the inclined surface is also inclined to allow movement from the actuated position to the unlocked position, regardless of the position of the locking cam 5.

[0095] In order to prevent undesired movement of the selector switch 10 in one direction or the other between the actuated position and the unlocked position, the clamping device is advantageously provided with a control device 11. The control device 11 is mounted so as to be movable between the clamping position and the release position. The control device 11 is preferably mounted on the body 1. Fig.23 As shown, in the clamped position, the control device 11 blocks the selector switch 10 in the actuated position.

[0096] by Fig.33 In the preferred manner shown, in the clamping position, the control device 11 blocks the selector switch 10 in the unlocking position. The control device 11 can be mounted so as to be movable with any type of movement, for example translation or rotation. The control device 11 can be mounted so as to be movable relative to the body 1 in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the locking cam 5, or have a component relative to the body 1 in the longitudinal direction of the pivot axis of the locking cam 5. In the embodiment shown, the control device 11 is mounted so as to rotate about a pivot axis parallel to the pivot axis of the locking cam 5, but another movement is possible.

[0097] Advantageously, the first spring 6 is a torsion spring, and more preferably, the first pivot axis 3 passes through the first spring 6. This facilitates actuation of the first spring 6 by the locking cam 5 and makes it easier to activate and deactivate the first spring 6 by the selector switch 10. Figures 1 to 40 The use of a torsion spring also allows for better control of stresses when rotation occurs.

[0098] exist Figures 34 to 40In the embodiment shown, the selector switch 10 is mounted to rotate about the first pivot axis 3. The selector switch 10 has an obstruction 12. In the actuated position, the obstruction 12 of the selector switch 10 is arranged to press against the first end 6a of the spring 6 at a distance from the second end 6b of the spring 6. The rotation of the locking cam 5 in the first rotational direction deforms the first spring 6. In the locked position, the obstruction 12 of the selector switch 10 is arranged to press against the second end 6b of the spring 6 at a distance from the first end 6a of the first spring 6.

[0099] This embodiment is particularly advantageous. In the actuated position, the first spring 6 biases the locking cam 5 in the second rotational direction (i.e., in the direction of the stopper), i.e., so as to reduce the distance between the stopper 2 and the locking cam 5. The first spring 6 tends to clamp the rope A located between the stopper 2 and the locking cam 5. This configuration is particularly suitable for tying up a leading climber. In the unlocked position, the first spring 6 biases the locking cam 5 in the second rotational direction. In order to increase the distance between the stopper 2 and the locking cam 5, the first spring 6 tends to promote the sliding of the rope A located between the stopper 2 and the locking cam 5 by moving the locking cam 5 to the third clamping position. This configuration is particularly suitable for tying up a climber who is tied up via a top route. Likewise, the first spring 6 exerts two opposite stresses on the locking cam 5, depending on whether the selector switch 10 is in the unlocked position or in the actuated position.

[0100] By using a second spring 13 having a first end attached to the body 1 and a second end attached to the locking cam 5, it is possible to utilize Figures 1 to 33 The embodiment shown obtains a similar operation. The second spring 13 presents an operation opposite to that of the first spring 6. Whereas when the locking cam 5 is in the first position, the first spring 6 presents a position of minimum stress, and when the locking cam 5 is in the third position, the second spring 13 presents a position of minimum stress. The second spring 13 applies a stress tending to move the locking cam 5 from the second position or the third position to the first position. The second spring 13 applies a stress tending to move the locking cam 5 from the first position to the third position. The stiffness of the second spring 13 is lower than that of the first spring 6. When the selector switch 10 is in the actuated position, the first spring 6 therefore tends to move the locking cam 5 to the first position, opposite to the force applied by the second spring 13.

[0101] In the unlocked position, the first spring 6 is deactivated, i.e., it no longer exerts stress on the locking cam 5 to move the locking cam 5 to the first position. Only the second spring 13 exerts stress on the locking cam 5, which tends to block the locking cam 5 in the third position without any external stress.

[0102] Advantageously, the second spring 13 is a torsion spring through which the first pivot axis 3 passes.

[0103] In the embodiment shown, the two flanges 1a and 1b each define a hole 14 designed to mount an openable connector, preferably a shackle. Once the shackle has been mounted in the two holes, the clamping device cannot be opened, thereby preventing the installation or removal of the strands of the rope A.

[0104] In a preferred manner, the first pivot shaft 3 is fixed to the body 1 by a nut 15. For example, the first pivot shaft 3 passes through a cover 16, and the nut 15 presses the cover 16 against the body 1. The cover 16 can be fixed to the body 1 by a second bolt 17.

[0105] In one embodiment, the selector switch spring 18 is attached to the selector switch 10 on the one hand and to the body 1 on the other hand. The selector switch spring 18 is preferably mounted such that the position of least stress is the actuated position. Figures 12 to 33 The embodiment shown in FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of a selector switch spring 18 for a selector switch 10 that is moved in translation or by rotation.

Claims

1. A rope clamping device, comprising: - a body (1) having a stopper (2); - a first pivot axis (3) fixed to said body (1); a locking cam (5) mounted to rotate about the first pivot axis (3), the locking cam (5) being mounted to be movable relative to the stop (2) between a first position and a second position, the second position being further away from the stop (2) than the first position; - a first spring (6), the first spring (6) having a first end (6a) and a second end (6b), one of the first end (6a) and the second end (6b) being operatively connected to the locking cam (5) via a first support, and the other of the first end (6a) and the second end (6b) being operatively connected to the body (1) via a second support; - a handle (8) mounted so as to be movable relative to the body (1) and fixed to the locking cam (5); - a selector switch (10) fixed to the body (1) and mounted so as to be movable relative to the body (1) between an unlocked position and an actuated position; wherein, when the selector switch (10) is in the actuated position, the first end (6a) is operably connected to the locking cam (5) by a first mechanical connection, the first mechanical connection being represented by abutment or attachment of the first end (6a) to the locking cam (5), and the second end (6b) is operably connected to the body (1) by a second mechanical connection, the second mechanical connection being represented by abutment or attachment of the second end to the body (1), rotating the locking cam (5) modifies the deformation of the first spring (6), the first spring (6) preventing the locking cam (5) from rotating in a direction corresponding to moving the locking cam (5) away from the stopper (2); Characterized in that, when the selector switch (10) is in the unlocked position, the selector switch (10) locks the first spring (6) in a deformed state corresponding to the locking cam (5) being in the third position, or the selector switch (10) interrupts the second mechanical connection, so that the first spring (6) pivots without being deformed; Alternatively, when the selector switch (10) is in the unlocked position, the first end (6a) is operably connected to the body (1) by a first mechanical connection, the first mechanical connection being represented by the abutment or attachment of the first end (6a) to the body (1), and the second end (6b) is operably connected to the locking cam (5) by a second mechanical connection, the second mechanical connection being represented by the abutment or attachment of the second end (6b) to the locking cam (5), the first end (6a) being supported on the selector switch (10) in the actuated position, and the second end (6b) being supported on the selector switch (10) in the unlocked position, the first spring (6) preventing the locking cam (5) from rotating in a direction corresponding to the locking cam (5) approaching the stopper (2).

2. The rope clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the selector switch (10) is in the unlocked position and the locking cam (5) is in the second position, the locking cam (5) is not functionally connected to the first spring (6), so that the locking cam (5) moves independently of the first spring (6).

3. The rope clamping device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The selector switch (10) has a blocking member (12) which catches the second end (6b) of the first spring (6) at a distance from the locking cam (5).

4. The rope clamping device according to claim 3, characterized in that: When the locking cam (5) is in the first position, the second end (6b) of the first spring (6) prevents the selector switch (10) from moving from the actuated position to the unlocked position.

5. The rope clamping device according to claim 4, characterized in that: When the locking cam (5) is in the second position, the second end (6b) of the first spring (6) prevents the selector switch (10) from moving from the actuated position to the unlocked position.

6. The rope clamping device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The second end (6b) of the first spring (6) allows the selector switch (10) to move from the actuated position to the unlocked position when the locking cam (5) is in the third position, the third position being further away from the stopper (2) than the second position.

7. The rope clamping device according to claim 4, characterized in that: When the locking cam (5) is in the first position, the second end (6b) of the first spring (6) prevents the selector switch (10) from moving from the unlocked position to the actuated position, and / or when the locking cam (5) is in the second position, the second end (6b) of the first spring (6) prevents the selector switch (10) from moving from the unlocked position to the actuated position.

8. A rope clamping device according to claim 1, comprising a control device (11) which is mounted so as to be movable between a clamping position and a release position, characterized in that In the clamped position, the control device (11) blocks the selector switch (10) in the actuated position.

9. The rope clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first spring (6) is a torsion spring through which the first pivot shaft (3) passes.

10. The rope clamping device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The selector switch (10) is mounted to rotate about the first pivot axis (3), wherein, in the actuated position, the pin of the selector switch (10) is arranged to press against the first end (6a) of the first spring (6) at a distance from the second end (6b) of the first spring (6), and wherein, in the unlocked position, the pin of the selector switch (10) is arranged to press against the second end (6b) of the first spring (6) at a distance from the first end (6a) of the first spring (6).

11. The rope clamping device according to claim 10, characterized in that: When the selector switch (10) is in the actuated position and the locking cam (5) is in the first position, the first end (6a) and the second end (6b) define an angle less than 90°, and the pin of the selector switch (10) is arranged between the first end (6a) and the second end (6b) in a surface defined by the angle.

12. The rope clamping device according to claim 1, comprising a second spring (13), the second spring (13) having a first end fixed to the locking cam (5) and a second end fixed to the body (1), the second spring (13) applying a force to prevent the first spring (6) from rotating from the third position to the first position, and the stiffness of the second spring (13) is lower than the stiffness of the first spring (6).

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