A long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-09-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-14
AI Technical Summary
[0004]本实用新型的目的在于提供一种拖链长距离架空自动支撑模块，以解决上述背景技术中现有支撑方式多采用固定式托架或滑行导槽
本实用新型通过电动机驱动摆动支架旋转，结合红外传感器的感应功能，实现支撑状态的智能切换。当拖链正常运行时，摆动支架处于竖直支撑位置，有效防止因自重导致的“塌腰”现象，提升架空稳定性，当拖链运行至支撑位置需要通过时，红外传感器实时检测到拖链接近，立即发送信号启动电动机，带动摆动支架向上旋转收起，快速让位，确保拖链顺畅通过，避免运动干涉。待拖链完全通过后，传感器信号消失，系统延时判断确认无误，随即控制电动机反转，将摆动支架自动恢复至竖直支撑状态，继续承担拖链重量，该“常态支撑、按需让位”的工作模式，实现了支撑动作的自动化与精准控制，无需人工干预。摆动支架末端设有滚轮，与拖链底部形成滚动接触，显著降低摩擦阻力，运行更顺滑，减少磨损，延长拖链使用寿命，整个系统响应迅速、结构紧凑、运行可靠，既保证了长距离架空的连续支撑能力，又解决了动态通过时的避让问题，特别适用于高频率往复运动的自动化设备，具有良好的实用性与推广价值。
Smart Images
Figure CN224634929U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of cable chain support modules, specifically a long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains. Background Technology
[0002] In industrial automation equipment, cable chains are widely used to carry cables, air hoses, and hydraulic lines, especially in long-distance reciprocating motion scenarios, where their overhead stability directly affects the reliability of system operation. To prevent the cable chain from "collapsed" due to its own weight, intermediate support devices are usually installed along the running path.
[0003] Existing support methods mostly use fixed brackets or sliding guides. During long-distance reciprocating motion, the bottom trajectory of the cable chain is not an absolute straight line or a fixed arc due to its own weight, the weight of the carrying cable, and the inertia of motion. Instead, it will produce slight up-and-down fluctuations, lateral swings, or local bending, which will cause "instantaneous misalignment contact" between the bottom of the cable chain and the support structure. That is, there may be excessive local compression at one moment and swaying due to excessive gap at another moment, which will cause sudden changes in frictional resistance and create the risk of jamming. To address this, an automatic support module for long-distance overhead cable chains is provided. Utility Model Content
[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automatic support module for long-distance overhead cable chains, addressing the problem that existing support methods in the background art mostly employ fixed brackets or sliding guides. These structures always remain in contact with the bottom of the cable chain, and when the cable chain is running, the support points cannot dynamically reposition, leading to a risk of motion interference when the cable chain passes through, and easily causing jamming or vibration problems.
[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains, comprising a support module, the support module comprising a support body and a motor, a groove is provided on one side of the support body, a rear cover is provided on one side of the support body, a placement slot is provided inside the groove, one end of the placement slot passes through the support body and extends to the other side, a swing bracket is provided inside the placement slot, and two first placement slots are provided on the other side of the support body, an infrared sensor is provided inside the first placement slot; The swing bracket is rotated by the motor. When the cable chain needs to pass, the infrared sensor sends a signal and the swing bracket is opened. When the cable chain leaves, the swing bracket closes again.
[0006] One end of the swing bracket passes through the placement groove and extends to the other side of the support body. Both sides of the bottom end of the support body are fixedly equipped with extension brackets, and an electric box module is installed inside the groove.
[0007] The electric box module has a rotating shaft inside. One end of the rotating shaft is rotatably mounted inside the electric box module via a bearing, and the other end of the rotating shaft passes through the electric box module and the support body and extends to the outside.
[0008] The other end of the rotating shaft is fixedly connected to the output shaft of the motor, and a support platform is fixedly installed at the bottom of the motor. One side of the support platform is fixedly installed on the outside of the support body.
[0009] The swing bracket includes a bracket body, and a control groove is provided at the top of the support body. A rotating rod is provided inside the control groove, and one end of the rotating rod is rotatably mounted on one side inside the control groove via a rotating shaft.
[0010] One side of the control groove is threaded with an end cap, and the other end of the rotating rod is rotatably mounted on one side of the end cap via a bearing. A roller is fixedly mounted on the outer side of the rotating rod.
[0011] This utility model has at least the following beneficial effects: This invention utilizes a motor-driven swing bracket rotation combined with infrared sensor sensing to achieve intelligent switching of support states. When the cable chain is running normally, the swing bracket is in a vertical support position, effectively preventing "sag" due to its own weight and improving overhead stability. When the cable chain needs to pass through a support position, the infrared sensor detects its approach in real time, immediately sends a signal to start the motor, causing the swing bracket to rotate upwards and retract quickly, ensuring smooth passage of the cable chain and avoiding movement interference. After the cable chain has completely passed, the sensor signal disappears, the system performs a delay to confirm accuracy, and then controls the motor to reverse, automatically restoring the swing bracket to a vertical support state to continue bearing the weight of the cable chain. This "normal support, on-demand relocation" working mode achieves automated and precise control of the support action, requiring no manual intervention. The swing bracket is equipped with rollers at the end, which form rolling contact with the bottom of the cable chain, significantly reducing frictional resistance, making the operation smoother, reducing wear, and extending the service life of the cable chain. The whole system is responsive, compact in structure, and reliable in operation. It not only ensures continuous support for long-distance overhead movement, but also solves the problem of avoidance during dynamic passage. It is particularly suitable for automated equipment with high-frequency reciprocating motion and has good practicality and promotion value. Attached Figure Description
[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the supporting main structure of this utility model; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the swing bracket of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the support body of this utility model; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the swing bracket structure of this utility model.
[0013] In the diagram: 1. Support module; 2. Support body; 3. Motor; 4. Groove; 5. Back cover; 6. Placement slot; 7. Swing bracket; 8. Infrared sensor; 9. Extension bracket; 10. Electric box module; 11. Rotating shaft; 12. Support platform; 13. Bracket body; 14. Control slot; 15. Rotating rod; 16. End cover; 17. Roller. Detailed Implementation
[0014] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0015] Please see Figure 1-5 This utility model provides a technical solution: a long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains, comprising a support body 2. The support body is made of high-strength aluminum alloy through die-casting, resulting in a robust yet lightweight overall structure. A groove 4 is provided on one side of the support body 2 to accommodate internal functional modules. A rear cover 5 is provided at the opening of the groove 4. The rear cover is locked to the support body 2 by multiple fasteners such as M4 screws, forming a closed, dustproof installation space to ensure stable operation of internal components in industrial environments. An electric box module 10 is installed inside the groove 4, integrating control circuitry and power management. The unit and signal processing chip are used to receive external sensing signals and drive the actuator to move. A bearing seat is provided on one side of the electric box module 10 to support one end of the rotating shaft 11 so that it can rotate smoothly. Then, a placement groove 6 is opened horizontally inside the support body 2. The groove extends from one side to the other side and runs through the entire support body 2. The swing bracket 7 can be installed through the placement groove 6 and realize the rotation movement. The rotation center of the swing bracket 7 is borne by the rotating shaft 11. One end of the rotating shaft 11 extends into the electric box module 10 and is rotatably connected through the bearing. The other end extends to the outside through the side wall of the support body 2.
[0016] A support platform 12 is provided on the outside of the support body 2. This support platform is an L-shaped metal bracket, welded and fixed to the side wall of the support body 2. The motor 3 is installed on the horizontal plane of the support platform 12. Its output shaft is connected to the exposed end of the rotating shaft 11 through a coupling or key to realize power transmission. When the motor 3 starts, it can drive the rotating shaft 11 to rotate synchronously, thereby driving the swing bracket 7 to adjust the angle. Further, the swing bracket 7 includes a bracket body 13, a rotating rod 15, a roller 17, and an end cover 16. A control groove 14 is provided on the top of the support body 2. The rotating rod 15 is installed in the groove, and one end of it is connected to the control through a bearing. The inner wall of the groove 14 is rotatably connected, and the other end is fixedly connected to the support body 13 to form a linkage structure. A roller 17 is fixedly sleeved on the outer periphery of the middle part of the rotating rod 15. The roller is installed by bearing and can roll freely at the bottom of the cable chain, effectively reducing frictional resistance. To prevent the rotating rod 15 from axially displacing during operation, an end cap 16 is threadedly connected to the open end of the control groove 14. An axial limiting step is provided inside the end cap, and it is further locked by fasteners to ensure stable and reliable operation of the roller assembly. The outer ring of the roller 17 is covered with polyurethane material, which has good wear resistance and elasticity, and can protect the surface of the cable chain and buffer the impact of movement.
[0017] On the other side of the support body 2, two first placement slots 6 are symmetrically arranged, and an infrared sensor 8 is embedded in each slot. The sensor is a reflective infrared photoelectric switch, and the detection direction is towards the cable chain running path. When the cable chain approaches the support module, the infrared sensor 8 detects the presence of the object and immediately outputs a high-level signal. When the cable chain passes, the signal disappears and returns to a low-level state. This signal is transmitted in real time to the controller in the electric box module 10 as the trigger for the swing bracket action. On both sides of the bottom end of the support body 2, extension brackets 9 are fixedly connected. The extension brackets 9 are height-adjustable structures, consisting of an outer tube and an inner rod. The inner rod can slide up and down in the outer tube and is fixed by the locking screw on the side. The surface of the outer tube has millimeter-level scale markings, which facilitates precise adjustment according to the actual cable chain installation height and adapts to cable chain systems with different bending radii and models.
[0018] During on-site implementation, the installation of support modules is first planned according to the cable chain model and its operating parameters. Taking the common TLX30 or TLX35 cable chains as an example, without intermediate support, a significant "waist collapse" phenomenon may occur when the overhead travel exceeds 2 meters. Therefore, the support modules of this utility model need to be deployed in segments along the entire running trajectory of the cable chain to achieve continuous and dynamic overhead support. Specifically, the installers first conduct on-site measurements along the predetermined running path of the cable chain to determine the spacing of the support modules. Under normal circumstances, installing one set of support modules every 2 to 3 meters can meet the needs of most industrial applications. For cable chain systems with larger loads, higher operating speeds, or smaller bending radii, the spacing can be shortened to 1.5 meters to increase support density and improve operational stability. Each support system consists of two support modules with identical structures, symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the cable chain's running trajectory. This paired installation method can ensure that the cable chain is subjected to balanced forces on both sides when passing through, avoiding unbalanced loads, twisting, or jamming caused by unilateral support.
[0019] Before installation, the operator first adjusts the extension bracket 9 at the bottom of the support module. The extension bracket 9 consists of an outer tube and an inner rod. By loosening the locking screws on the side, the inner rod can be slid up and down to adjust the overall height. The outer tube surface has millimeter-level graduations for precise matching of the cable chain's installation reference surface height. After adjustment, tighten the locking screws to ensure the extension bracket 9 will not shift during operation. Then, move the adjusted support module to the marked installation position. Using the mounting holes at the bottom of the extension bracket 9, securely fix it to the ground, equipment bracket, or steel structure platform using expansion bolts or a welded base plate. During installation, ensure... The support body 2 is calibrated using a level to ensure it is horizontal, so that the swing bracket 7 can evenly bear the weight of the cable chain when vertically supporting it, avoiding local stress concentration or motion interference caused by tilting. After all support modules are installed in place, electrical connections are made. Each support module's electric box module 10 is equipped with a power input terminal and a signal interface. If an independent operation mode is adopted, each module can be connected to a 24V DC power supply to achieve local control. If multi-point coordination is required, RS485 bus communication is used to connect the communication interfaces of all modules in series to the same control network, which is managed uniformly by a host computer or PLC.
[0020] After the system is powered on, each module enters standby mode. Infrared sensor 8 begins to scan the cable chain's running path in real time. This sensor is a high-sensitivity reflective photoelectric switch, with the detection direction directly facing the cable chain's movement direction. The effective detection distance can be adjusted within the range of 50mm to 300mm to adapt to cable chains of different thicknesses and surface characteristics. When the cable chain moves with the equipment and gradually approaches a certain support module, its metal or plastic body enters the detection area of infrared sensor 8. The sensor immediately outputs a high-level signal, which is transmitted to the microcontroller in the electric box module 10. The controller then performs logical judgment... After confirming a valid trigger, a forward rotation command is immediately sent to motor 3. Motor 3 is a low-speed, high-torque DC geared motor. After starting, it drives the rotating shaft 11 to rotate through the output shaft. The rotating shaft 11 passes through the support body 2, and its two ends are connected to the support body 13 of the swing bracket 7 and the rotating rod 15, respectively. Driven by motor 3, the rotating shaft 11 rotates about 85°, causing the swing bracket 7 to retract upwards as a whole. The roller 17 then disengages from the bottom of the cable chain, completely freeing up the running space and achieving the "open" state. The entire opening action is responsive and takes less than 1 second on average, ensuring that the cable chain can pass through without obstruction.
[0021] After the cable chain has completely passed the support point, there are no objects in the detection area of the infrared sensor 8, and the signal changes from high level to low level. To prevent false judgments caused by vibration, dust, or temporary obstruction, the controller has a built-in 0.3 to 1 second delay confirmation mechanism. Only if the signal remains low during the delay period is it determined that the cable chain has completely passed. After the delay ends, the controller issues a reversal command, the motor 3 rotates in the opposite direction, and drives the rotating shaft 11 to rotate in the opposite direction, smoothly restoring the swing bracket 7 to the initial vertical position, making contact with the bottom of the cable chain again, bearing its partial weight, and achieving a "closed" support state. At this time, the roller 17 makes contact with the bottom surface of the cable chain again, providing rolling support and significantly reducing frictional resistance. It is worth noting that for subsequent support modules that have not yet been triggered by the cable chain, their swing bracket 7 always maintains a vertical support state, continuously providing overhead capacity for the cable chain. This "give way as needed, reset in sequence" working mode not only ensures the continuity of support, but also avoids unnecessary energy consumption, improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the system.
[0022] This invention uses a motor 3 to drive the swing bracket 7 to rotate. Combined with the real-time sensing function of an infrared sensor 8, it realizes an intelligent control logic that automatically opens the swing bracket 7 when the cable chain passes and automatically closes it after passing. This brings a series of significant technical advancements and practical advantages. First, since the swing bracket 7 is always in a vertical support position under normal conditions, it can effectively bear the local weight of the cable chain and prevent it from "collapsed" due to its own weight during long-distance overhead operation. The support body 2 adjusts the installation height through the extension bracket 9 to adapt to the bending radius and installation reference surface of different models of cable chains, ensuring that the support point is precisely fitted with the bottom of the cable chain and improving the overall structural load-bearing stability.
[0023] When the cable chain moves along its running track and approaches a support module, the infrared sensor 8, located in the first placement slot 6 on one side of the support body 2, detects the cable chain approaching in real time and immediately transmits the signal to the control unit in the electric box module 10. Upon receiving a high-level trigger signal, the control unit quickly starts the motor 3, causing it to rotate forward and output power. The motor 3 is connected to the rotating shaft 11 via its output shaft, driving the rotating shaft 11 to rotate. This, in turn, drives the swing bracket 7, which is fixedly connected to the shaft 11, to swing upwards approximately 85° around the rotating shaft 11, causing the swing bracket 7 to retract entirely into the support body 2 or to the side clearance area, thus achieving… In the "open" state, the action has a fast response speed, usually completed within 0.8 to 1.2 seconds, ensuring that the cable chain can pass smoothly without obstacles, avoiding motion interference or jamming problems caused by traditional fixed supports. After the cable chain has completely passed the support point, there are no objects in the detection area of the infrared sensor 8, and the signal returns to a low level. After the control unit confirms that the cable chain has completely left after a set delay (0.3 to 1 second), it issues a reversal command to control the motor 3 to run in the opposite direction, driving the rotating shaft 11 to rotate in the opposite direction, so that the swing bracket 7 can be smoothly reset to the original vertical support position and re-contact the bottom surface of the cable chain, realizing the "closed" state.
[0024] It is worth noting that the swing bracket 7 in the untriggered support module always maintains a vertical support state, continuously providing overhead capacity for the cable chain. This "give way on demand, support under normal conditions" working mode not only achieves dynamic avoidance but also ensures the continuity of support, significantly improving the overall stability and safety of the cable chain system. In addition, the roller 17 set on the swing bracket 7 forms rolling contact with the bottom surface of the cable chain, which greatly reduces the frictional resistance during operation compared with the traditional sliding friction support method. The roller 17 is installed in the control groove 14 through the rotating rod 15 and is axially limited by the end cover 16, resulting in smooth operation and low noise. The outer ring of the roller is covered with polyurethane material, which has good wear resistance and elasticity, protecting the surface of the cable chain from scratches and buffering the impact of operation, thus extending the service life of the cable chain and support system.
[0025] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.
[0026] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains, characterized in that: The device includes a support module, which comprises a support body and a motor. A groove is provided on one side of the support body, and a back cover is provided on the other side of the support body. A placement slot is provided inside the groove. One end of the placement slot passes through the support body and extends to the other side. A swing bracket is provided inside the placement slot. Two first placement slots are provided on the other side of the support body. An infrared sensor is provided inside the first placement slot. The swing bracket is rotated by the motor. When the cable chain needs to pass, the infrared sensor sends a signal and the swing bracket is opened. When the cable chain leaves, the swing bracket closes again.
2. The long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains according to claim 1, characterized in that: One end of the swing bracket passes through the placement groove and extends to the other side of the support body. Both sides of the bottom end of the support body are fixedly provided with extension brackets, and an electric box module is provided inside the groove.
3. The long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains according to claim 2, characterized in that: The electric box module has a rotating shaft inside. One end of the rotating shaft is rotatably mounted inside the electric box module via a bearing, and the other end of the rotating shaft passes through the electric box module and the support body and extends to the outside.
4. The long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains according to claim 3, characterized in that: The other end of the rotating shaft is fixedly connected to the output shaft end of the motor. A support platform is fixedly installed at the bottom end of the motor, and one side of the support platform is fixedly installed on the outside of the support body.
5. The long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains according to claim 4, characterized in that: The swing bracket includes a bracket body, and a control groove is provided at the top of the bracket body. A rotating rod is provided inside the control groove, and one end of the rotating rod is rotatably mounted on one side inside the control groove via a rotating shaft.
6. The long-distance overhead automatic support module for cable chains according to claim 5, characterized in that: One side of the control groove is threaded with an end cap, and the other end of the rotating rod is rotatably mounted on one side of the end cap via a bearing. A roller is fixedly mounted on the outer side of the rotating rod.