Semi-enclosed towed chain

By designing a detachable, semi-enclosed cable chain structure, the problems of cumbersome assembly and low wiring efficiency of traditional cable chains are solved, enabling rapid assembly and wiring. It can meet the dustproof and heat dissipation requirements under harsh working conditions and is particularly suitable for automated equipment and testing instruments.

CN224301299UActive Publication Date: 2026-05-29DONGGUAN SHENGDA MASCH TECH CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
DONGGUAN SHENGDA MASCH TECH CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-05-26
Publication Date
2026-05-29

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing cable chains have complex structures and require cumbersome assembly and wiring operations, making them particularly unsuitable for automated equipment and testing instruments that require frequent cable replacement or maintenance. Furthermore, traditional cable chains cannot meet the dustproof and heat dissipation requirements under harsh working conditions.

Method used

Design a semi-enclosed cable chain that uses detachable chain links and joints. The semi-enclosed structure is formed by overlapping cover plates. Combined with detachable connections and a rotating structure, it enables rapid assembly and wiring, and is suitable for harsh working conditions.

Benefits of technology

It enables rapid assembly and wiring, improves assembly efficiency, effectively prevents dust and heat dissipation in harsh environments, extends cable life, and is suitable for automated equipment and testing instruments that require frequent cable replacement or maintenance.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of semi-closed tow chain, belong to tow chain technical field, including several chain link main body and the joint one and joint two of both ends, several chain link main body head-to-tail rotation is connected in turn, joint one and joint two are respectively connected with the chain link main body rotation of tow chain both ends;Chain link main body, joint one and joint two are all outside plugging, inside with the semi-closed structure of opening, adjacent chain link main body between, chain link main body and joint one and joint two are all detachably connected, facilitate quick assembly;While the outside cover plate of adjacent chain link main body is overlapped in turn staggered, can block part of dust while giving consideration to heat dissipation requirement, avoid cable long time operation overheating and damage;Inward pressing the connecting plate break of chain link main body can be wiring, substantially improve wiring efficiency.The utility model is convenient and quick to install and maintain in later period, especially suitable for the scene of automation equipment, detecting instrument etc. that need to frequently replace cable or maintain;Adopt semi-closed structure is suitable for severe environment.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of cable chain technology, and specifically relates to a semi-enclosed cable chain. Background Technology

[0002] Cable chains are widely used in various mechanical equipment, playing a vital role in the industrial field. They are primarily used to protect and guide critical components such as cables, air hoses, and hydraulic lines, ensuring their stable and safe operation during equipment movement. Currently, existing cable chains have relatively complex structures, requiring individual cable threading during assembly and wiring. This assembly and wiring process is cumbersome and inefficient, making them particularly unsuitable for automated equipment and testing instruments that require frequent cable replacement or maintenance. Therefore, there is a need to develop a new type of cable chain that can be quickly assembled and wired while also adapting to harsh working conditions. Utility Model Content

[0003] To address the above problems, this utility model provides a semi-enclosed cable chain.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0005] A semi-enclosed cable chain includes several chain link bodies and connectors 1 and 2 at both ends. The chain link bodies are rotatably connected end to end. Connectors 1 and 2 are rotatably connected to the chain link bodies at both ends of the cable chain. The chain link bodies, connectors 1 and 2 are all semi-enclosed structures with sealed outer sides and open inner sides. Adjacent chain link bodies and the chain link bodies are detachably connected to connectors 1 and 2.

[0006] Furthermore, the chain link body includes two opposing and parallel chain plates. One side of the two chain plates is connected by a cover plate, and the middle of the other side is connected by a connecting plate that is broken in the middle. The ends of the two cover plates of the adjacent chain link body overlap and the mating surfaces of the two cover plates slide together. The chain link body is an integral structure. The adjacent two chain link bodies, the chain link bodies at both ends of the drag chain and the first and second joints are all connected by a rotating connection structure.

[0007] Furthermore, the connecting plate is a split structure with a break in the middle, including a connecting part and a connecting part 2. The connecting end of the connecting part 1 is connected to a chain plate on one side, and the free end is provided with a concave pressure groove. The connecting end of the connecting part 2 is connected to a chain plate on the other side, and the end face of the free end of the connecting part 2 is parallel to the end face of the pressure groove.

[0008] Furthermore, the junction of the first and second connecting parts with the inner sides of the chain plates on both sides is rounded, and the free end of the second connecting part and the end face of the pressure groove are both inclined surfaces, and the horizontal projections of the two inclined surfaces can match each other.

[0009] Furthermore, the rotating connection structure includes a rotating shaft and a positioning hole that rotates with it. Both ends of the chain plate are arc-shaped, and the connecting ends of the first and second connectors are also arc-shaped. The rotating shaft is located outside the connecting end of the chain plate and the second connector, and at the center of the arc-shaped edge. The positioning hole is located at the center of the arc-shaped edge of the other end of the chain plate and the connecting end of the first connector. The rotating shaft and the positioning hole are clearance-fitted and are engaged by a snap-fit ​​structure to enable the loading and unloading of adjacent chain links and the first and second connectors.

[0010] The rotating shaft is located in the middle of the recessed platform on the outer side of the chain plate end. The outer edge of the recessed platform has a fan-shaped limiting notch that extends through both the inside and outside. The arc-shaped sidewall of the recessed platform has a first limiting block radially arranged, and the first limiting block and the limiting notch are arranged opposite to each other on both sides of the rotating shaft. The connecting end of the first connector has a spline hole at its center that mates with the rotating shaft, and a groove at its edge that mates with the first limiting block. The inner wall of the chain plate inside the positioning hole has a recessed groove. The inner edge of the recessed groove has a fan-shaped limiting groove. The sidewall of the recessed groove has a second limiting block radially arranged that mates with the limiting notch. The second limiting block and the limiting groove are arranged opposite to each other on both sides of the positioning hole. The connecting end of the second connector has a groove at its edge that mates with the second limiting block. The first limiting block of the adjacent chain plate mates with the limiting groove, and the second limiting block mates with the limiting notch, to limit the bending angle of the cable chain.

[0011] Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​structure includes a protruding tongue at the end edge of the rotating shaft, and a rectangular groove is provided on the inner wall of the positioning hole for the rotating shaft with the protruding tongue to pass through; the outer opening of the positioning hole is provided with an annular step, and the end of the protruding tongue can extend to the outside of the annular step and abut against the platform of the annular step.

[0012] Furthermore, both ends of the cover plate have arc-shaped edges that curve inward toward the cable chain. One end of the cover plate has a groove on its outer surface and is fixed to the two side chain plates on both sides. The other end of the cover plate has a step on its inner side and a gap between its two sides and the inner wall of the two side chain plates for the end of the chain plate of the adjacent chain link body to be inserted. The edge of the cover plate outside the step can be placed in the groove at the end of the cover plate of the adjacent chain plate, and the end of the groove can extend to the inner side of the cover plate of the adjacent chain plate.

[0013] Furthermore, the inner wall surfaces of the two side plates of the adjacent chain links are flush, the outer surfaces of the two side plates are consistent, and the outer surfaces of the cover plates of the adjacent chain links are consistent.

[0014] Furthermore, the main body of the chain link and its two ends, connector one and connector two, are all integrally injection molded from engineering plastics.

[0015] Furthermore, both the intermediate plates of the first and second connectors are provided with weight-reducing holes, and the outer side of the middle part of the chain plate and the middle part of the rotating shaft are provided with weight-reducing grooves.

[0016] The technological advancements achieved by this invention compared to existing technologies are as follows:

[0017] In this invention, adjacent chain links are detachably connected, as are the chain links and connectors one and two, facilitating quick assembly. The overlapping outer cover plates of adjacent chain links effectively seal off external contaminants, making it suitable for harsh working environments. Wiring can be performed simply by pressing inwards at the break point of the connecting plate on the chain link, eliminating the need for threading and significantly improving wiring efficiency. This invention facilitates quick and easy installation and maintenance, solving the problem of cumbersome disassembly and assembly in traditional cable carriers. It is particularly suitable for automated equipment and testing instruments requiring frequent cable replacement or maintenance. The semi-enclosed structure of the cable carrier blocks some dust while also meeting heat dissipation requirements, preventing cables from overheating during prolonged operation and affecting their lifespan or even causing damage. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings are provided to further understand the present invention and form part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of the present invention to explain the present invention and do not constitute a limitation thereof.

[0019] In the attached diagram:

[0020] Figure 1 An external view of a semi-enclosed cable chain provided for an embodiment of this utility model;

[0021] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the main structure of the central link;

[0022] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A-direction view of the main body of the middle link;

[0023] Figure 4 for Figure 3 View from direction B of the main body of the middle link;

[0024] Figure 5 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the middle connector;

[0025] Figure 6 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the middle connector 2;

[0026] In the picture:

[0027] 1-Chain link body; 11-Chain plate; 12-Cover plate; 13-Connecting plate; 130-Pressure groove; 131-Connecting part one; 132-Connecting part two; 2-Joint one; 3-Joint two; 4-Opening; 5-Beveled surface; 6-Rotating shaft; 7-Positioning hole; 8-Countertop; 9-Limiting notch; 10-Limiting block one;

[0028] 14-Spline hole, 15-Slot, 16-Counter groove, 17-Limit groove, 18-Limit block two, 19-Protruding tongue, 20-Rectangular groove, 21-Groove, 22-Weight reduction hole, 23-Weight reduction groove, 24-Gap. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments. The embodiments of this utility model will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0030] This utility model provides a semi-enclosed cable chain, such as Figure 1 , 2 As shown, the cable chain includes several chain link bodies 1 and connectors 2 and 3 at both ends. The chain link bodies 1 are rotatably connected end to end. Connectors 2 and 3 are rotatably connected to the chain link bodies 1 at both ends of the cable chain, respectively. The chain link bodies 1, connectors 2 and 3 are all semi-enclosed structures with outer sealing and inner openings 4. Adjacent chain link bodies 1 and the chain link bodies 1 with connectors 2 and 3 are detachably connected. The chain link body 1 includes two opposing and parallel chain plates 11. One side of the two chain plates 11 is connected by a cover plate 12, and the middle of the other side is connected by a connecting plate 13 that is broken in the middle. The ends of the two cover plates 12 of adjacent chain link bodies 1 overlap and the mating surfaces of the two cover plates 12 slide together. The chain link body 1 is an integral structure. Adjacent chain link bodies 1 and the chain link bodies 1 at both ends of the cable chain with connectors 2 and 3 are all connected by rotatable connection structures. The cable chain features a detachable connection for easy and quick assembly; wiring can be performed simply by pressing the disconnected part of the connecting plate inward, eliminating the need for threading and significantly improving wiring efficiency; at the same time, adjacent cover plates overlap in sequence, forming a semi-enclosed structure with the side chain plates and connecting plates, which can both block some dust and facilitate heat dissipation, extending the service life of the cables.

[0031] As a preferred structure, such as Figure 3As shown, the connecting plate 13 is a split structure with a break in the middle, including a connecting part 131 and a connecting part 132. The connecting end of the connecting part 131 is connected to one side chain plate 11, and the free end is provided with a concave pressure groove 130. The connecting end of the connecting part 132 is connected to the other side chain plate 11, and the end face of the free end of the connecting part 132 is parallel to the end face of the pressure groove 130. In specific manufacturing, the junction of the connecting part 131 and the connecting part 132 with the inner side of the two side chain plates 11 is rounded to avoid stress concentration and breakage at the root of the connecting plate due to frequent pressing. The end face of the free end of the connecting part 132 and the end face of the pressure groove 130 are both inclined surfaces 5, and the horizontal projections of the two inclined surfaces 5 can match each other. This structure can limit the internal cables and prevent the cables from coming out of the opening during the operation of the cable chain.

[0032] In specific embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2-4 As shown, the rotating connection structure includes a rotating shaft 6 and a positioning hole 7 that rotatably engages with it. Both ends of the chain plate 11 are arc-shaped, as are the connecting ends of connector 1 (2) and connector 2 (3). The rotating shaft 6 is located outside one end of the chain plate 11 and the connecting end of connector 2 (3), at the center of the arc-shaped edge. The positioning hole 7 is located at the center of the arc-shaped edge of the other end of the chain plate 11 and the connecting end of connector 1 (2). The rotating shaft 6 and the positioning hole 7 are clearance-fitted and engage via a snap-fit ​​structure, used to facilitate the loading and unloading of adjacent chain link bodies 1, connectors 1 (2), and connector 2 (3). During assembly, one end of the connector with the positioning hole can be pressed and fitted onto the rotating shaft of the adjacent chain plate, and one end of the chain plate with the positioning hole can be pressed and fitted onto the adjacent chain plate. Finally, the positioning hole of the last chain link body is fitted onto the rotating shaft of connector 2, thus quickly completing the assembly of the cable chain.

[0033] In specific design, such as Figure 3 , 4As shown, the rotating shaft 6 is located in the middle of the recessed platform 8 on the outer side of the end of the chain plate 11. The outer edge of the recessed platform 8 is provided with a fan-shaped limiting notch 9 that extends through both the inside and outside. A limiting block 10 is radially provided on the arc-shaped side wall of the recessed platform 8, and the limiting block 10 and the limiting notch 9 are arranged opposite to each other on both sides of the rotating shaft 6. The connecting end of the connector 2 is provided with a spline hole 14 that mates with the rotating shaft 6 at its center, and a groove 15 that mates with the limiting block 10 at its edge. The inner wall of the chain plate 11 on the inner side of the positioning hole 7 is provided with a recessed... The groove 16 has a fan-shaped limiting groove 17 on the inner side of its end edge. A second limiting block 18, which mates with a limiting notch 9, is radially provided on the side wall of the groove 16. The second limiting block 18 and the limiting groove 17 are positioned opposite each other on both sides of the positioning hole 7. The connecting end edge of the second connector 3 has a slot 15 that mates with the second limiting block 18. The first limiting block 10 of the adjacent chain plate 11 mates with the limiting groove 17, and the second limiting block 18 mates with the limiting notch 9, to limit the bending angle of the cable chain. During assembly, the groove 16 at the end of the chain plate faces the countersunk platform 8 at the end of the adjacent chain plate, so that the positioning hole 7 is fitted onto the corresponding rotating shaft 6, and the first limiting block 10 is placed in the limiting groove 17. The limiting groove 17 is used to limit the swing angle of the first limiting block 10, thereby limiting the bending degree of the cable chain.

[0034] By utilizing the countersunk platform and countersunk trough, the outer surfaces of the two chain plates 11 can be kept consistent, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Simultaneously, the inner wall surfaces of the chain plates 11 on both sides of adjacent chain links 1 are flush, preventing interference with internal cables.

[0035] Further optimize the above structure, such as Figure 1 , 3 As shown, the snap-fit ​​structure includes a protruding tongue 19 at the end edge of the rotating shaft 6. A rectangular groove 20 is provided on the inner wall of the positioning hole 7 for the rotating shaft 6 with the protruding tongue 19 to pass through. An annular step is provided on the outer opening of the positioning hole 7, and the end of the protruding tongue 19 can extend to the outside of the annular step and abut against the platform of the annular step. During assembly, the positioning hole is aligned with the rotating shaft, and the protruding tongue is eccentrically snapped onto the platform outside the positioning hole. During disassembly, the protruding tongue is pushed towards the center of the positioning hole, allowing it to pass through the positioning hole with the rectangular groove along with the rotating shaft. Simultaneously, the end of the chain plate is pried outwards, thus disengaging from the rotating shaft on the adjacent chain plate. Because the chain link body is injection molded from engineering plastic, it has a certain degree of elasticity, allowing the end to be slightly moved during assembly and disassembly.

[0036] In specific embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 1 , 2As shown, both ends of the cover plate 12 have arc-shaped eaves that curve inward toward the cable chain. One end of the cover plate 12 has a groove 21 on its outer surface, and its two sides are fixedly connected to the two side chain plates 11. The other end of the cover plate 12 has a step on its inner side, and its two sides have gaps 24 between them and the inner walls of the two side chain plates 11 for the insertion of the ends of the chain plates 11 of adjacent chain links, facilitating mutual rotation between adjacent chain links. The outer edge of the cover plate 12 of the step can be placed in the groove 21 at the end of the cover plate 12 of the adjacent chain plate 11, and the end of the groove 21 can extend to the inner side of the cover plate 12 of the adjacent chain plate 11. This structure allows the cover plates of adjacent chain links to overlap during cable chain operation, enabling the outer side of the cable chain to be sealed, preventing some dust from entering the interior. Simultaneously, the groove design on the cover plate ensures that the outer surfaces of the cover plates 12 of adjacent chain links 1 remain basically flush, ensuring a neat and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0037] In the manufacturing of cable chains, the main body 1 of the chain link and its two ends, connector 2 and connector 3, are all integrally injection molded from engineering plastics. This process facilitates mass production. Figure 1 , 2 As shown, the intermediate plates of the first connector 2 and the second connector 3 are provided with weight reduction holes 22, and the outer side of the middle part of the chain plate 11 and the middle part of the rotating shaft 6 are provided with weight reduction grooves 23, which can reduce material consumption and reduce the overall weight.

[0038] In summary, this utility model has the advantages of simple and compact structure, and convenient and quick assembly and disassembly. The main body of the chain link, connector one, and connector two are all integrally injection molded using engineering plastics, which facilitates mass production. The cable chain adopts an assembly structure for easy and quick assembly, and the middle break of the connecting plate facilitates pressing and wiring, greatly improving wiring efficiency. The ends of adjacent cover plates overlap in a staggered manner, forming a semi-enclosed structure with the side chain plates and connecting plates, which can both block some dust and facilitate heat dissipation, extending the service life of the cable. This utility model is convenient for quick installation and subsequent maintenance, and is especially suitable for automated equipment, testing instruments, and other scenarios that require frequent cable replacement or maintenance.

[0039] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the utility model. Although the utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A semi-enclosed cable chain, characterized in that: The drag chain includes several main body links and connectors 1 and 2 at both ends. The main body links are rotatably connected end to end. Connectors 1 and 2 are rotatably connected to the main body links at both ends of the drag chain. The main body links, connectors 1 and 2 are all semi-enclosed structures with sealed outer sides and open inner sides. Adjacent main body links and main body links are detachably connected to connectors 1 and 2.

2. The semi-enclosed cable chain according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chain link body includes two opposing and parallel chain plates. One side of the two chain plates is connected by a cover plate, and the middle of the other side is connected by a connecting plate that is broken in the middle. The ends of the two cover plates of the adjacent chain link body overlap and the mating surfaces of the two cover plates slide together. The chain link body is an integral structure. The two adjacent chain link bodies, the chain link bodies at both ends of the drag chain and the first and second joints are all connected by a rotating connection structure.

3. A semi-enclosed cable chain according to claim 2, characterized in that: The connecting plate is a split structure with a break in the middle, including a connecting part and a connecting part 2. The connecting end of the connecting part 1 is connected to a chain plate on one side, and the free end is provided with a concave pressure groove. The connecting end of the connecting part 2 is connected to a chain plate on the other side, and the end face of the free end of the connecting part 2 is parallel to the end face of the pressure groove.

4. A semi-enclosed cable chain according to claim 3, characterized in that: The junction of the first and second connecting parts with the inner sides of the chain plates on both sides is rounded. The free end of the second connecting part and the end face of the pressure groove are both inclined surfaces, and the horizontal projections of the two inclined surfaces can match each other.

5. A semi-enclosed cable chain according to claim 2, characterized in that: The rotating connection structure includes a rotating shaft and a positioning hole that rotates with it. Both ends of the chain plate are arc-shaped, and the connecting ends of the first and second connectors are also arc-shaped. The rotating shaft is located outside the connecting end of the chain plate and the second connector, and at the center of the arc-shaped edge. The positioning hole is located at the center of the arc-shaped edge of the other end of the chain plate and the connecting end of the first connector. The rotating shaft and the positioning hole are clearance-fitted and are engaged by a snap-fit ​​structure to enable the loading and unloading of adjacent chain links and the first and second connectors. The rotating shaft is located in the middle of the recessed platform on the outer side of the chain plate end. The outer edge of the recessed platform has a fan-shaped limiting notch that extends through both the inside and outside. The arc-shaped sidewall of the recessed platform has a first limiting block radially arranged, and the first limiting block and the limiting notch are arranged opposite to each other on both sides of the rotating shaft. The connecting end of the first connector has a spline hole at its center that mates with the rotating shaft, and a groove at its edge that mates with the first limiting block. The inner wall of the chain plate inside the positioning hole has a recessed groove. The inner edge of the recessed groove has a fan-shaped limiting groove. The sidewall of the recessed groove has a second limiting block radially arranged that mates with the limiting notch. The second limiting block and the limiting groove are arranged opposite to each other on both sides of the positioning hole. The connecting end of the second connector has a groove at its edge that mates with the second limiting block. The first limiting block of the adjacent chain plate mates with the limiting groove, and the second limiting block mates with the limiting notch, to limit the bending angle of the cable chain.

6. A semi-enclosed cable chain according to claim 5, characterized in that: The snap-fit ​​structure includes a protruding tongue at the end edge of the shaft, and a rectangular groove is provided on the inner wall of the positioning hole for the shaft with the protruding tongue to pass through; the outer opening of the positioning hole is provided with an annular step, and the end of the protruding tongue can extend to the outside of the annular step and abut against the platform of the annular step.

7. A semi-enclosed cable chain according to claim 2, characterized in that: Both ends of the cover plate have curved edges that curve inward toward the cable chain. One end of the cover plate has a groove on its outer surface and is fixed to the two side chain plates on both sides. The other end of the cover plate has a step on its inner side and a gap between its two sides and the inner wall of the two side chain plates for the end of the chain plate of the adjacent chain link body to be inserted. The edge of the cover plate outside the step can be placed in the groove at the end of the cover plate of the adjacent chain plate, and the end of the groove can extend to the inner side of the cover plate of the adjacent chain plate.

8. A semi-enclosed cable chain according to claim 2, characterized in that: The inner wall surfaces of the two side plates of the adjacent chain links are flush, the outer surfaces of the two side plates are consistent, and the outer surfaces of the cover plates of the adjacent chain links are consistent.

9. A semi-enclosed cable chain according to any one of claims 2-8, characterized in that: The main body of the chain link and its two ends, connector one and connector two, are all integrally injection molded from engineering plastics.

10. A semi-enclosed cable chain according to claim 9, characterized in that: Both the intermediate plates of the first and second joints are provided with weight reduction holes, and the outer side of the middle part of the chain plate is provided with a weight reduction groove.