limb and limb apron

Abstract

Link (1) for a link skirt (30) comprising a plurality of such links (1), wherein a connecting element (4) is formed integrally with the link (1) at a first end section (2) of the link (1), and wherein a recess (22) is formed at a second end section (18) opposite the first end section (2), wherein the connecting element (4) can be articulated to the recess (22) of an adjacent link (1), wherein the connection is pivotable on both sides from a central plane (A) to which the link (1) is symmetrically formed, in order to change a guided direction of movement of the link skirt (30), characterized in that the first end section (2) has two concave circular arc sections (10) and two outer surfaces (16) of the link (1) in the region of the second end section (18) are formed into respective convex circular arc sections. (20) pass over,wherein the outer surfaces (16) extend linearly between the concave circular arc segments (10) and the convex circular arc segments (20).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a link for connecting a plurality of such links to form a link apron according to the preamble of claim 1 and a corresponding link apron.

[0002] It is well known that link aprons are used as covers for machines, especially machine tools. These covers serve to protect the machine from, for example, chips produced during the machining process. The machine must also be protected from coolant required for the machining process. This reduces the degree of contamination and the machine's susceptibility to malfunctions, leading to a generally longer service life. In addition to these technical and economic objectives, the cover also increases the safety of personnel operating the machine.

[0003] To create a cover, identical, preferably metallic, individual links are connected in a chain-like fashion to form a link skirt. To open and close the cover, the link skirt is moved along a path guided by a track or rail. Often, the link skirts move along a curve of the track or rail, which is particularly feasible at high speeds if the link skirts have low moving masses, for example, because they are made of aluminum.

[0004] German patent application DE 100 65 092 A1 proposes links connected to form a linked apron by means of link connectors or connecting strips. Each connecting strip, made of plastic, acts as a connecting element between two links and is flexible. This results in a articulated connection on both sides, allowing for changes in the guided direction of movement of the resulting linked apron. Both ends of the connecting strip are rounded and connected by a central rib. The links have a corresponding rounded recess on both of their long sides. To change the path of movement of the guided linked apron, the elastic connecting strip deforms to the extent required for a specific swivel angle. When the linked apron transitions from a curved to a straight path of movement, the connecting strip returns to its original shape.

[0005] A disadvantage of this solution is that the connecting strips are manufactured as separate components, resulting in high manufacturing and assembly costs. Furthermore, the deformability of the connecting strips and the shape of the long sides of the links make it possible for unwanted contamination by chips or other foreign particles to enter the joint areas of the link connections. Contamination of the joint areas with chips or other foreign particles leads to abrasive wear in the area of ​​the articulated connection, which can cause malfunctions or complete failure of the link apron's function.

[0006] An alternative solution proposed by the applicant for the links of a unidirectional pivoting apron eliminates the need for connecting keder. The links are thus directly connected to each other by hinges, thereby reducing the assembly effort required for connections using connecting keders. Each link has a connecting element integrally formed on one long side or end section and a precisely fitting recess for the connecting element on the other long side or end section. The hinged connection is created by inserting the connecting element of one link into the recess of an adjacent link.

[0007] Here, too, a disadvantage is the potential for contamination by metal shavings in the joint areas of the linkage apron. These shavings can penetrate a small gap in the joint area between two links, severely restricting the apron's function, particularly its pivoting capability. This gap is necessary to prevent direct contact between the metal links in the joint area and the associated friction, which would lead to significant wear and tear on the joints and negatively impact the apron's pivoting capability. Another disadvantage of this design is that the apron can only pivot in one direction.

[0008] In contrast, the invention aims to create a link for a linkable apron that can be connected to similar links without a welt and allows for pivoting of the adjacent links or curvature of the linkable apron in both directions. Furthermore, the invention aims to create a corresponding linkable apron.

[0009] This problem is solved by the link for a link apron with the features of claim 1.

[0010] The claimed member serves to form a linkable apron, in particular a flexible cover for machine tools, wherein the linkable apron comprises a plurality of such members. A connecting element is integrally formed with a first end section formed by one long side of the claimed member. A recess is formed in a second end section formed by the other long side of the claimed member. The connecting element can be articulated to the recess of an adjacent member. This solution enables a seamless connection of the members to form a linkable apron. According to the invention, the connection is pivotable from a central plane of the member on both sides – preferably by the same amount. This allows for a change in the guided direction of movement of the linkable apron on both sides.A rail or guide for the articulated apron can therefore be curved on both sides.

[0011] The component is preferably made of metal, in particular aluminum. It is especially preferred that the component is formed as an extruded profile.

[0012] The link can still have two smooth outer surfaces. This allows the link apron to be mounted on the rail or guide without regard to the correct outer side. Furthermore, in the case of a curved guide and a potentially associated rear view of the link apron, no "inferior" side can be identified.

[0013] The link is preferably designed to be wiped clean. At least one wiper can be used to remove contaminants from the outer surfaces, such as chips or coolant. The wiper is not connected to the link skirt but is mounted stationary on the machine tool. During operation, the link skirt, in its guided movement, passes by the wiper, which is in contact with the outer surfaces of the link, thus removing the contaminants. The portion of the wiper in contact with the outer surfaces of the links is preferably made of a plastic, such as a thermoplastic, and especially of a rubber-like material, such as an elastomer.

[0014] The connecting link integrally joins a rounded section of the connecting element to a main section of the link, with the rounded section of the connecting element being inserted into a correspondingly rounded section of the recess. This creates a hinged connection between the links. The rounded section of the connecting element is concentrically encompassed by the rounded section of the recess. When the links pivot, the rounded section of the connecting element rotates within the rounded section of the recess that encompasses it.

[0015] Preferably, the recess for limiting a swivel angle on both sides has two flanks which, at a maximum possible swivel angle, come into contact with a respective connecting web of the connecting element of the adjacent link.

[0016] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the two flanks are arranged at an angle to the central plane. This enables the pivoting of the link skirt according to the invention in both directions, since the connecting web of the connecting element can move in both directions from the central plane. The maximum pivot angle to the central plane is reached when the connecting web is in contact with the respective flank.

[0017] The link is preferably symmetrical about the central plane. This means that the link can be connected to the adjacent link rotated 180° about the central plane, and that the link skirt can be installed rotated 180° about the central plane without changing its functionality or appearance. This also simplifies the assembly of the links to each other and of the link skirt on the rail or in the guide. Furthermore, this also enables symmetrical pivoting of the links relative to each other in both directions.

[0018] Preferably, the first end section has a concave circular arc segment on each end face of the connecting web, while the two outer surfaces of the link have convex circular arc segments in the region of the second end section. The circular arc segments are concentric to each other when the links are connected.

[0019] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the recess has a sliding layer or a plastic element, in particular a plastic layer or a plastic profile, so that the metallic connecting element of one link is not in direct contact with the metallic recess of the adjacent link. If the plastic element is designed as a profile, it can be inserted into the recess or into its rounded section of the respective link.

[0020] In a further particularly preferred embodiment, the rounded section of the recess has the sliding layer or the plastic element.

[0021] As previously described, the rounded section of the connecting element of one link engages with the rounded section of the recess of an adjacent link, creating a articulated connection between the respective links. The rounded section of the connecting element is in contact with the sliding layer or the plastic element of the rounded section of the recess, and not with the rounded section of the recess itself. The favorable coefficient of friction of the contacting materials ensures a smooth and efficient articulated connection between the respective links.

[0022] In a further particularly preferred embodiment, the sliding layer or the plastic element extends over the flanks of the recess. This provides a gentle stop between the plastic or sliding layer as the upper layer of the flanks of one link and the metal of the connecting web of the adjacent link when the maximum possible pivot angle of the links is reached. In contrast, metal-to-metal contact according to the prior art is associated with high noise emissions due to the rigidity of both materials. In modern industrial manufacturing, noise emission reduction plays a crucial role. Preferably, this stop is planar.

[0023] In a further particularly preferred embodiment, the sliding layer or the plastic element extends – at least partially – over the convex arc segments. This allows a gap between the two convex arc segments of one link and the corresponding concave arc segments of the adjacent link to be sealed. This is achieved by the sliding layer or the plastic element of the convex arc segment being in direct contact with the metallic concave arc segment of the adjacent link. This is made possible with minimal friction by the particularly favorable coefficient of friction between the plastic or sliding layer and the metal, especially the aluminum. The direct contact thus achieves a sealing effect characterized by a virtually gap-free seal.Contamination of the joint areas of the limbs with shavings or other foreign particles can thus be largely prevented.

[0024] In a manufacturing-technically preferred further development, the plastic element has an approximately constant wall thickness.

[0025] Preferably, reinforcing sections are formed within the link. These reinforcing sections are particularly formed in the main section. The advantage of this is that high link strength is achieved while simultaneously reducing the amount of material. Due to the weight saved and the resulting lower moment of inertia, the link can be moved at a higher speed in the guide or rail and, according to the invention, deflected in both directions.

[0026] The main section of the link preferably has several internal reinforcing sections. These reinforcing sections can, for example, connect the outer surfaces or be connected perpendicularly to the end sections of the link. Another possibility is angled reinforcing sections between an end section and an outer surface. Reinforcing sections between the reinforcing sections are also conceivable.

[0027] Preferably, the reinforcing sections and / or the connecting web and / or the rounded sections and / or the concave and / or the convex circular arc sections and / or the outer surfaces have approximately the same wall thickness. This is highly advantageous when manufacturing the link as an extruded profile, as the die for extruding the link can be produced more easily. Furthermore, this results in a very simple link design.

[0028] The task is further solved by a linked apron that has several links as described above.

[0029] An embodiment of the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. The figures show:

[0030] Fig. 1 a cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a member;

[0031] Fig. 2 a cross-section of several members according to Fig. 1. joined to form a link apron in a non-swiveled state; and

[0032] Fig. 3 a cross-section of several members according to Fig. 1, joined to form a link apron according to Fig. 2 in a tilted state.

[0033] Fig. Figure 1 shows a cross-section of a limb. 1 . In a first end section 2 of the member 1 A long side is positioned that runs perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. It is integral with the link there. 1a connecting element 4 formed. The connecting element 4 is made from a connecting bridge 6 and a rounded section 8 formed. The connecting bridge 6 This connects a main section 14 of the member 1 with the rounded section 8 The connecting bridge 6 is planar and extends along a central plane A of the member 1 The rounded section 8 It is roughly cylindrical in shape and hollow inside.

[0034] The first final section 2 It also features two concave circular arc sections. 10 up, which is connected by the footbridge 6 are separated from each other. Along the connecting bridge 6 The middle plane A runs along this plane, which is also the plane of symmetry of the member. 1 represents.

[0035] Within the main section 14 of the member 1are several reinforcement sections 12 to recognize those responsible for the firmness of the limb 1 while simultaneously saving material. In this embodiment, the process begins at the first end section. 2 a reinforcement section 12 inwards along the middle plane A into the interior of the main section 14 inside. Attached to it are two V-shaped reinforcement sections. 12 , to which in turn a respective reinforcement section arranged perpendicular to the median plane A 12 is scheduled. The latter reinforcement sections. 12 are with the inner sides of the two outer surfaces 16 connected. The fundamentally comparable structure also extends from a second end section. 18 in the main section 14 formed, however, here the reinforcement section is arranged along the middle plane A. 12 longer.

[0036] The outdoor areas 16 go in the area of ​​the second end section 18 into respective convex circular arc segments 20 over. The second final section 18 points between the two convex circular arc segments 20 an exception 22 on, which is formed by a circularly rounded section 24 and through two flanks 26 is limited. The two flanks 26 They are angled obliquely to the median plane A at an angle α and are arranged in a V-shape relative to each other. The angle α thus defines the maximum swivel angle α of a link. 1 opposite an adjacent limb.

[0037] About the second final section 18 a plastic element extends 28 More precisely, the plastic element extends 28 over the inside of the recess 22 that is, about its rounded section 24 and across both their flanks 26Furthermore, the plastic element extends 28 largely across the two convex circular arc segments 20 .

[0038] In the area of ​​the recess 22 The plastic element 28 The wall thickness remains approximately constant. The wall thickness decreases in the area of ​​the two convex circular arc segments. 20 , so that the plastic element 28 has a maximum distance to the median plane A that is equal to that of the two outer surfaces 16 of the member 1 corresponds.

[0039] Fig. Figure 2 shows a cross-section of part of a link apron. 30 , which consist of several identical links 1 according to Fig. 1 is composed of parts. The link apron 30 or their limbs 1 They are in a straight, unrotated state. For connecting two links 1 During assembly, the rounded section was always used. 8of the connecting element 4 into the rounded section 24 the exclusion 22 (inserted perpendicular to the drawing plane). This creates the rounded section. 8 of the connecting element 4 concentric in the rounded section 24 the exclusion 22 absorbed, so that the connection can no longer be released, at least in the direction of movement. When the links pivot. 1 The rounded section rotates 8 of the connecting element 4 within the rounded section encompassing it 24 the exclusion 22 around an axis of rotation located at the center of the circle formed by the two rounded sections 8 , 24 lies.

[0040] They form between the flanks 26 the limbs 1 and the connecting bridge 6 of the adjacent member 1each swivel range of the same size, and which corresponds to the angle α (see below). Fig. 1) correspond.

[0041] The radian measure of the two convex circular arc segments 20 of the second final section 18 is smaller than the arc length of the two concave circular arc segments 10 of the first end section 2 The respective plastic element 28 It is firmly attached to the two convex circular arc segments. 20 and is at least partially movable on the two concave circular arc segments. 10 of the adjacent member 1 The virtually gap-free design ensures a double-sided sealing effect of the plastic element. 28 between the convex circular arc segment 20 and the concave arc segment 10 given of the adjacent limb.

[0042] Fig. Figure 3 shows a cross-section of part of a link apron.30 according to Fig. 2 in the unilaterally curved state or in the unilaterally pivoted state of the links 1 The pivoting of the limbs 1 The opposite direction is also possible. The links 1 in Fig. 3 have the maximum possible swivel angle α (see below). Fig. 1) achieved. Thus, the link apron has 30 The highest possible curvature is reached. The connecting webs are in this state. 6 the connecting elements 4 the respective members 1 on the flanks 26 the exclusion 22 the respective adjacent links 1 .

[0043] The circular arc segments that do not lie in the direction of rotation or that are outer convex 20 the limbs 1 They now lie completely outside the respective concave arc segments. 10 the adjacent members 1. Through the plastic element according to the invention 28 However, this prevents the formation of a slot that is located there without a plastic element. 28 opening would allow dirt to get into the recesses. 22 can penetrate.

[0044] The convex arc segments lying in the direction of rotation or the inner convex arc segments 20 the limbs 1 In contrast, they are located further inside, i.e., deeper in the respective recesses. 22 and thereby completely along the concave arc sections 10 the adjacent members 1 to.

[0045] A link and a link apron are revealed. A direct, articulated connection between the links to form the link apron is achieved by means of a connecting element in each link and a recess in an adjacent link. The articulated connection is designed to pivot symmetrically on both sides. Reference symbol list 1 member 2 first end section 4 Connecting element 6 connecting bridge 8 rounded section 10 concave circular arc segment 12 Reinforcement section 14 Main Section 16 outdoor area 18 second final section 20 convex circular arc segment 22 Exclusion 24 rounded section 26th flank 28 plastic elements 30 link aprons α maximum swivel angle A middle level QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0046] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0047] DE 10065092 A1

[0004]

Claims

[1] member ( 1 ) for a link apron ( 30 ), which have a plurality of such links ( 1 ) has, wherein at a first terminal section ( 2 ) of the member ( 1 ) a connecting element ( 4 ) one-piece with the member ( 1 ) is formed, and wherein at a second terminal section ( 18 ), which corresponds to the first terminal section ( 2 ) opposite, a recess ( 22 ) is formed, and wherein the connecting element ( 4 ) in a articulated connection with the recess ( 22 ) of an adjacent member ( 1 ) is bringable, characterized by that the connection, starting from a central plane (A), is pivotable on both sides to change a guided direction of movement of the link apron ( 30 ) is executed. [2] Member according to claim 1, wherein the recess ( 22 ) two flanks ( 26 ) exhibits, which are connected by a respective connecting bridge (6 ) of the connecting element ( 4 ) of the adjacent member ( 1 ) can be placed in the facility, whereby the connecting bridge ( 6 ) a rounded section ( 8 ) of the connecting element ( 4 ) with a main section ( 14 ) of the member ( 1 ) connects, and where the rounded section ( 8 ) of the connecting element ( 4 ) into a rounded section ( 24 ) the exclusion ( 22 ) can be used. [3] Member according to claim 2, wherein the two flanks ( 26 ) are employed at the intermediate level (A). [4] Member according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the member ( 1 ) is symmetrical about the middle plane (A). [5] Member according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first end section ( 2 ) two concave circular arc segments ( 10 ) exhibits. [6] Member according to one of the preceding claims, wherein two outer surfaces ( 16 ) of the member ( 1 ) in the area of ​​the second terminal section ( 18 ) into respective convex circular arc segments ( 20 ) pass over. [7] Member according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recess ( 22 ) a sliding layer or a plastic element ( 28 ) exhibits. [8] Component according to claims 2 and 7, wherein the sliding layer or the plastic element ( 28 ) across the flanks ( 26 ) extends. [9] Member according to claim 6 and according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the sliding layer or the plastic element ( 28 ) at least section by section over the convex circular arc segments ( 20 ) extends. [10] Member according to claims 2 and 7, wherein the sliding layer or the plastic element ( 28 ) over the rounded section (24 ) the exclusion ( 22 ) extends. [11] Member according to one of the preceding claims, wherein within the member ( 1 ) Reinforcement sections ( 12 are trained. [12] Member according to claims 2, 5, 6 and 11, wherein the reinforcing sections ( 12 ), the connecting element ( 4 ), the concave and convex arc segments ( 10 , 20 ) as well as the outdoor areas ( 16 ) have approximately the same wall thickness.

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