Exchange adapter system

Abstract

The invention relates to an exchange adapter system comprising a fixed part and an interchangeable loose part, wherein, in an operating position, the fixed part and the loose part are positively engaged at an interface, and wherein a degree of freedom of assembly oriented in a longitudinal direction of the exchange adapter system is blocked by means of locking elements that are radially displaceable in the longitudinal direction. The locking elements are locking bolts mounted in the fixed part, each with a multiaxially curved actuating face and a wedge-shaped engagement face. A locking piston, longitudinally biased in the direction of the interface by a spring and media-controlled or electrically releaseable, is mounted in the fixed part. In the operating position, the locking piston rests against the actuating face of each locking bolt along a contact line or along a contact surface having a contact line.Furthermore, in the operating position, an engagement wedge surface of the engagement end face of each locking bolt rests against a frustoconical holding surface of the loose part. The present invention increases the operational reliability of an exchange adapter system.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an exchange adapter system with a fixed part and with an exchangeable loose part, wherein in an operating position the fixed part and the loose part are positively joined to each other in an interface and wherein a degree of freedom of assembly oriented in a longitudinal direction of the exchange adapter system is blocked by means of locking elements that are radially displaceable to the longitudinal direction.

[0002] A clamping device is known from WO 2021 / 085 110 A1. A pneumatically actuated piston with a detent groove and a conical surface is arranged in the fixed part. The conical surface displaces detent balls, which are mounted in a cage on the fixed part side, into an engagement groove on the loose part side. To prevent the detent balls from falling out, their radial projection beyond the cage must be smaller than the radius of a single detent ball.

[0003] DE 10 2017 114 150 B3 discloses a zero-point clamping system into which a clamping bolt can be inserted. The zero-point clamping system has two clamping slides which are actuated in both directions by means of a spring-loaded piston, pneumatically or hydraulically resettable, with cylindrical pins mounted therein in a sliding bearing.

[0004] The present invention is based on the problem of increasing the operational reliability of an exchange adapter system.

[0005] This problem is solved by the features of the main claim. For this purpose, the locking elements are locking bolts mounted in the fixed part, each with a multiaxially curved actuating face and a wedge-shaped engagement face. A locking piston, longitudinally biased in the direction of the interface by a spring and capable of being medially controlled or electrically released, is mounted in the fixed part. In the operating position, the locking piston rests against the actuating face of each locking bolt along a contact line or along a contact surface having a contact line. The actuating face is curved in two orthogonal planes. Furthermore, in the operating position, an engagement wedge surface of the engagement face of each locking bolt rests against a frustoconical retaining surface of the loose part.

[0006] A locking piston is slidably mounted in the fixed part. This piston is held in an extended position by a spring. In this extended position, the locking piston rests against several locking bolts, which are mounted in the fixed part so as to be linearly displaceable in the radial direction. The wedge-shaped engagement face allows the locking bolt to bear in a straight line against the frustoconical engagement recess of the loose part.

[0007] In the operating state, all actuating end faces of the locking bolts together define a circular area in every plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. This circular area is congruent to a circumferential line of the locking piston in a transition region or in a frustoconical region. Thus, there is at least line contact between the locking piston and each individual actuating bolt. The plane of line contact lies in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Surface contact can also exist between the locking piston and the actuating bolt. This then includes the contact line mentioned above.

[0008] A second curvature plane on the actuating face, arranged orthogonally to the first, enables control of the locking movement. This allows for the formation of a locking zone and / or a securing zone that creates a self-locking mechanism between the two joining parts. Even in the case of incomplete joining, this prevents the loose part from coming loose.

[0009] Further details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and the following description of schematically illustrated embodiments. Fig. 1: Exchange adapter system with storage station; Fig. 2: Fixed part from the joining side; Fig. 3: Sectional view of the Fig. 2; Fig. 4: Locking bolt from the actuating end face; Fig. 5: Locking bolt from the engagement end face; Fig. 6: Cross-section of the locking bolt in a plane normal to the longitudinal direction; Fig. 7: Longitudinal section of the locking bolt in a radial plane to the longitudinal direction; Fig. 8: Actuation of the locking bolt; Fig. 9: Loose part from the joining side; Fig. 10: Sectional view of the retaining ring; Fig. 11: Centering sleeve and support spring; Fig. 12: Loose part with centering sleeve insert; Fig. 13: Variant of the centering sleeve insert; Fig. 14: Centering sleeve insert made of Fig. 13 in rotated view; Fig. 15: Exchange adapter system in operating position; Fig. 16: Storage station; Fig. 17: Partial section of the Fig. 16; Fig. 18: Storage station with storage adapter and release adapter; Fig. 19: Storage adapter; Fig. 20: Release adapter.

[0010] The Fig. Figures 1-12 show an interchangeable adapter system (10) with accessories and individual parts. Such interchangeable adapter systems (10) are used, for example, on industrial robots to connect different tools or tool systems to them. The interchangeable adapter system (10) has, as connecting parts (20, 80), a fixed part (20) that is connected to the industrial robot and a loose part (80), for example, a tool-carrying part. The tool can be, for example, a cutting or forming tool, a handling tool, etc. At the separable interface (16) between the fixed part (20) and the loose part (80), all media, electrical energy, and / or signals required at the loose part (80) and / or at the tool are transmitted.

[0011] To operate the industrial robot with a different tool, the loose part (80) is exchanged. For this purpose, the industrial robot moves the exchange adapter system (10) so that the loose part (80) is inserted, for example, into a storage station (140). A locking mechanism securing the loose part (80) to the fixed part (20) is then released. When the fixed part (20) is lifted out by the industrial robot, the interface (16) between the fixed part (20) and the loose part (80) is disconnected. The fixed part (20) is then moved by the industrial robot to another storage station (140). There, the fixed part (20) is joined with a loose part (80) provided in this storage station (140) and locked together. The newly assembled exchange adapter system (10) can now be moved by the industrial robot according to the specific task.

[0012] In the presentation of the Fig. 1. The fixed part (20) has a housing (21) with a mounting flange (22) on the top. The fixed part (20) can be attached to the industrial robot, for example by means of screws, using this mounting flange (22). A centering collar (23) ensures the central position of the fixed part (20) relative to the industrial robot.

[0013] A plurality of transformers (24) are arranged on the circumferential surface of the fixed part (20). These transformers (24) are, for example, media transformers (25) as well as electrical transformers (26) for power, data and signals. Optionally, these transformers (24) or some of the transformers (24) may also be arranged inside the fixed part (20).

[0014] The media transmitters (25) on the fixed part (20) have, for example, pneumatic or hydraulic inlets (27). These lead to transition outlets (28) which are arranged on the joining side (31) of the fixed part (20), cf. Fig. 2. The transition outlets (28) have, for example, sealing rings (29) to ensure a sealed media transfer to the loose part (80). The media transferred by means of these media transfer units (25) are used, for example, to actuate a gripping device, to drive a tool, etc.

[0015] The electrical transmitters (26) for energy, data, and signals are designed for specific applications. For example, a two-pole energy transmitter can be used to transmit drive energy to a tool. The electrical potential is then, for example, a DC voltage of 24 volts or 48 volts. A five-pole data transmitter can be used, for example, to transmit sensor data to a higher-level control system.

[0016] In the exemplary embodiment, further media connections (32) are used for controlling, for example, pneumatic functions in the fixed part (20). Monitoring of these functions can be provided, for example, by means of sensors.

[0017] The Fig. Figure 1 shows the exchange adapter system (10) in a state in which the fixed part (20) and the loose part (80) are spaced apart from each other. An imaginary center line (14) penetrates the fixed part (20) and the loose part (80) in a longitudinal direction (15) of the exchange adapter system (10).

[0018] From the fixed part (20) three centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) project towards the loose part (80), cf. Fig. 2. Centering sleeve inserts (101) are arranged in the loose part (80), into which the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) engage when the exchange adapter system (10) is joined. It is also conceivable to arrange the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) on the loose part side and the centering sleeve inserts (101) on the fixed part side. The loose part (80) and the fixed part (20) are aligned relative to each other by means of at least two centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) and their associated centering sleeve inserts (101).

[0019] In the exemplary embodiment, the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) are arranged unevenly on a common pitch circle. On this pitch circle, the centering angle between the individual centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) is between 117 degrees and 125 degrees. This means that the fixed part (20) and the loose part (80) can only be joined relative to each other in a single orientation.

[0020] In this embodiment, the individual centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) are identical in construction. They are each pressed into the fixed part (20) to a defined depth and secured by means of a threaded washer (34) screwed into the fixed part (20). The portion of the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) protruding from the joining face (31) has a conical section (35) and a cylindrical section (36) mounted on it. The length of the cylindrical section (36) is, for example, 38% of the protruding length of the centering and anti-rotation bolt (33). The diameter of the cylindrical section (36) is, for example, 70% of its length. In this embodiment, the tip angle of the conical section (35) is 20 degrees. This angle can be between 15 and 30 degrees.

[0021] At the joining side (31), the fixed part (20) has a locking bolt carrier (37) attached to the fixed part housing (21), with an engagement pin (39). The engagement pin (39) has a cylindrical outer contour. The diameter of this outer contour is, for example, 42% of the outer diameter of the fixed part (20). The longitudinally oriented length (15) of the engagement pin (39) is, for example, 42% of the total length of the fixed part (20).

[0022] The engagement pin (39) is cage-like in design. A plurality of locking bolts (41) are slidably mounted in the engagement pin (39). In the exemplary embodiment, eight locking bolts (41) project radially from the outer surface of the engagement pin (39) at evenly distributed intervals. They are oriented perpendicular to the center line (14) of the exchange adapter system (10).

[0023] In the exemplary embodiment, all locking bolts (41) are of the same design. Each individual locking bolt (41) has a circular cross-sectional area. In the fixed part (20), a stroke and rotation limiter (42) is arranged for each individual locking bolt (41), cf. Fig. 3. This includes, for example, a guide ball (38) mounted in the locking bolt carrier (37), which engages in a guide groove (43) of the locking bolt (41), cf. the Fig. 4-8. Another design for the stroke and rotation limiter (42) is also conceivable. The locking bolt (41) can also have a square, rectangular, etc. cross-section. In the exemplary embodiment, the individual locking bolt (41) is made of a bearing steel, e.g., 100Cr6 with material number 1.3505.

[0024] The Fig. Figures 4-7 show two views and two sectional views of a locking bolt (41). The section planes of the sectional views are offset from each other by 90 degrees. The individual locking bolt (41) has an actuating end face (44) and an engagement end face (51). The actuating end face (44) is located in the views of the Fig. 1 to 3 within the intervention pin (39). The intervention face (51) protrudes from the intervention pin (39).

[0025] The actuating face (44) is designed as a multiaxially curved surface. In the planes oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (15), the actuating face (44) has a constant radius in each plane. With the locking bolt (41) installed, the centers of these radii are offset from the actuating face (44) in the direction of the center line (14). The radii of curvature in the planes perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (15) increase from the side facing away from the guide groove (43) towards the guide groove (43). The radius of this conically shaped depression is, for example, between 15.3 millimeters and 16.8 millimeters.

[0026] In the radial plane of the exchange adapter system (10) penetrating the locking bolt (41) and in the planes parallel to the radial plane, the curvature is formed as a protrusion. The respective center of the radius is offset towards the engagement face (51) relative to the actuating face (44). In this cross-sectional plane, the actuating face (44) has a control area (47) adjacent to the side of the guide groove (43), a locking area (46), and a securing area (45).

[0027] The locking section (45) forms an angle of, for example, 7.5 degrees with the center line (14) in the radial plane. It is formed as a straight line segment in the radial plane and in the planes parallel thereto. This angle is arranged, for example, such that a wedge is formed at the end facing away from the guide groove (43). The length of the locking section (45) is, for example, 54% of the diameter of the locking bolt (41).

[0028] The locking section (45) transitions seamlessly into the interlocking section (46). In the interlocking section (46), the angle between the locking bolt (41) and the center line (14) in the radial plane is between 2 and 5 degrees. In the exemplary embodiment, this angle is 3.75 degrees. The length of the interlocking section (46) is, for example, 17% of the diameter of the locking bolt (41).

[0029] In the control area (47), the contour of the locking bolt (41) is arc-shaped in the radial plane and in the planes parallel thereto. This arc can have a constant radius or segmentally defined radii. In the exemplary embodiment, the constant radius of curvature is, for example, approximately half the radius of curvature in the plane normal to the longitudinal direction (15). The center point of this radius is offset towards the engagement end face (51) relative to the actuating end face (44).

[0030] The engagement face (51) has two wedge surfaces (52, 53). These are an engagement wedge surface (52) and a return wedge surface (53). The engagement wedge surface (52) and the return wedge surface (53) are arranged symmetrically about a plane that is oriented normal to the longitudinal direction (15). In the exemplary embodiment, the two wedge surfaces (52, 53) have the same size. The wedge angle enclosed by the two wedge surfaces (52, 53) is, for example, 90 degrees.

[0031] A locking piston (61) is slidably mounted in the locking bolt carrier (37), see figure. Fig. 3. The fixed part (20) has a cylindrical piston receptacle (71) for this purpose. The locking piston (61) has a piston disc (62) with a circular cross-section and a locking pin (63). The piston disc (62) has a groove (64) for receiving a piston seal (65). The locking piston is made, for example, of a case-hardening steel, e.g., 16MnCr5 with material number 1.7131.

[0032] The locking pin (63) is located centrally on the piston disk (62) and is oriented towards the loose part (80). It has a cylindrical section (66), a transition section (67), and a frustoconical section (68). In the exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the cylindrical section (66) is 44% of the diameter of the piston disk (62). Its length in the exemplary embodiment is 71% of the length of the locking pin (63).

[0033] The transition area (67), see the Fig. 3 and Fig. 8 is torus-shaped. Its radius centerline is arranged concentrically to the centerline (14) of the exchange adapter system (10) in the locking pin (63). The magnitude of the radius corresponds, for example, to the magnitude of the radius of the control area (47). In the exemplary embodiment, the length of the transition area (67) is 11.5% of the length of the locking pin (63).

[0034] In the exemplary embodiment, the frustoconical region (68) has an apex angle of 50 degrees. Its base surface (69), oriented normal to the longitudinal direction (15), has, for example, a diameter of 34% of the diameter of the piston disk (62).

[0035] The stroke of the locking piston (61) in the longitudinal direction (15) is greater than the sum of the lengths of the transition section (67) and the frustoconical section (68) of the locking pin (63). In the exemplary embodiment, the stroke is 50% greater than the sum of these lengths. The maximum stroke of the locking piston (61) is less than the length of the cylindrical section (66) of the locking pin (63). The locking piston (61) is displaceable between a first end position and a second end position in the longitudinal direction (15). The first end position is limited, for example, by an integrated housing cover (72) of the fixed housing (21). This first end position is also referred to as the release position. When the locking piston moves from the first end position toward the second end position, the locking bolts (41) are displaced radially outward. The second end position is, for example,The stroke and rotation limit (42) of the locking bolts (41) is limited. Other stroke limits are also conceivable. This second end position, in which the locking bolts (41) are fully extended, is referred to below as the operating end position.

[0036] One or both end positions of the locking piston (61) can be monitored, for example, by means of limit or proximity switches, a magnetic measuring system, etc., in order to enable subsequent functions. If only one end position is monitored, the air-out position, for example, is monitored.

[0037] In the piston receptacle (71), the locking piston (61) is biased towards its operating end position by a spring (73). In this embodiment, this spring (73) is a compression spring (73) that is supported against the housing cover (72) and the locking piston (61). Optionally, the locking piston (61) can also be pneumatically, electrically, or hydraulically biased in this stroke direction.

[0038] In the direction of the release position, the locking piston (61) is moved against the force of the spring (73) by means of a media-controlled or electrical mechanism. A media-controlled actuation for releasing the locking piston (61) can be pneumatic or hydraulic.

[0039] The lot part (80), cf. Fig. 9, in a top view in the longitudinal direction (15), has a contour congruent to that of the fixed part (20). On its lateral surface (81), it has transfer surfaces (82) on the loose part side. These are, for example, designed to be complementary to the transfer surfaces (24) of the fixed part (20). The loose part (80) is bounded in the longitudinal direction (15) by a joining side (83) oriented towards the fixed part (20) and the tool side (84) facing away from the fixed part (20).

[0040] In the exemplary embodiment, the loose part (80) has a continuous central opening (85). A tool can be attached to the tool side (84), which is centered, for example, by means of a tool adapter inserted into the opening (85).

[0041] The loose part (80) has a loose part housing (86) in which a retaining ring (91) is inserted and fastened. The joining side (83) of the loose part (80) has media inlets (87) which are connected, for example, to media outlets (88) on the outer surface (81). The joining side (83) has in the illustrations of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 9. Three sleeve receptacles (89). The position of these sleeve receptacles (89) corresponds to the position of the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) of the fixed part (20). In the exemplary embodiment, a centering sleeve insert (101) is located in each sleeve receptacle (89). The number of centering sleeve inserts (101) is greater than or equal to the number of centering and anti-rotation bolts (33). In the exemplary embodiment, all centering sleeve inserts (101) are identical in construction.

[0042] The Fig. Figure 10 shows a sectional view of the retaining ring (91). The retaining ring (91) is attached to the loose part housing (86), for example, by means of several fastening screws (92). The retaining ring (91) is a circumferential ring with an outer support ring (93) and an inner locking ring (94). The locking ring (94) projects from the support ring (93) in the direction of the joining side (83). The locking ring (94) has an insertion surface (95) pointing towards the joining side (83) and a retaining surface (96) facing away from the joining side (83). The insertion surface (95) and the retaining surface (96) define a retaining wedge (97) pointing towards the center line (14). The inner circle of the retaining wedge (97) has a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the engagement pin (39) when the locking bolt (41) is retracted. The transition between the insertion surface (95) and the holding surface (96) in the area of ​​the inner circle is rounded.

[0043] The insertion surface (95) forms a conical section of a right cone, the imaginary apex of which lies on the center line (14) outside the tool side (84). The imaginary apex angle of the insertion surface is 30 degrees.

[0044] The holding surface (96) is also designed as a conical section of a right cone. The imaginary apex of this cone lies outside the joining surface (83) on the center line (14). The apex angle of this imaginary cone is 90 degrees.

[0045] The Fig. 11 and Fig. Figure 12 shows a centering sleeve insert (101). This is used, for example, with the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) described above. The illustrated centering sleeve insert (101) has a support spring (103), a centering sleeve (102), and a locking device (104).

[0046] In this embodiment, the support spring (103) is formed by a disc spring assembly (103). This disc spring assembly (103) is supported in the blind-hole-shaped sleeve receptacle (89).

[0047] The centering sleeve (102) has an interference fit with the sleeve receptacle (89), so that it is radially preloaded and fixed in the loose part (80). In the exemplary embodiment, this interference is three hundredths of a millimeter. This interference can be between one and ten hundredths of a millimeter. The centering sleeve (102), open at both ends, has an imaginary cylindrical outer contour. It has a longitudinal slot (105) of constant width. On the side facing away from the longitudinal slot (105), for example, a deformation point (106) is formed. In the illustration of the Fig. 11 This is a thin section adjacent to the support spring (103). The wall thickness of the centering sleeve (102) is reduced here, for example, to 50% in certain areas. Instead of the thin section, a partial slot may also be arranged in this section. Other material weakenings are also conceivable.

[0048] The inner contour of the centering sleeve (102) is formed in two stages. The setting area (107) adjacent to the support spring (103) is cylindrical. Its diameter is, for example, one-tenth of a millimeter larger than the diameter of the cylindrical section of the centering and anti-rotation bolt (33). In the exemplary embodiment, the length of the setting area (107) is 20% longer than the length of the cylindrical section (36) of the associated centering and anti-rotation bolt (33).

[0049] A centering area (108) adjoins the setting area (107). This centering area (108) has a frustoconical shape. It widens from the setting area (107) towards the bolt receptacle (109). The opening angle corresponds to the cone angle of the conical section (35) of the associated centering and anti-rotation bolt (33). In the exemplary embodiment, the length of the centering area (108) is 95% of the length of the conical section (35).

[0050] In the exemplary embodiment, the locking device (104) has a locking pin (113) screwed into the loose part (80). This engages in the illustrations of the Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 into a recess (111) in the area of ​​the deformation point (106). For example, the locking pin to the centering sleeve (102) has 0.03 millimeters of play in all directions. Under a load in the longitudinal direction (15), the centering sleeve (102) can move relative to the loose part (80), for example, when the support spring (103) is compressed. The locking device (104) can, for example, comprise a retaining ring, a press pin, etc., arranged above the centering sleeve (102) in the sleeve receptacle (89).

[0051] The Fig. 13 and Fig. Figure 14 shows a centering sleeve insert (101) with a centering sleeve (102) whose outer diameter is further reduced in a contact area (112) adjacent to the longitudinal slot (105) and adjacent to the deformation point (106). This contact area (112) is, for example, at an angle of 40 degrees with respect to a centering sleeve centerline oriented in the longitudinal direction (15). The outer diameter is 1.5% to 2% larger in a plane radial to the centering sleeve centerline than in the contact area (112) adjacent to the longitudinal slot (105). The wall thickness in the seating area (107) is, for example, 95% of the wall thickness in a plane normal to the longitudinal slot (105) and to the deformation point (106) in the contact area (112).

[0052] During the joining of the fixed part (20) and the loose part (80), the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) engage in the centering sleeve inserts (101). The cylindrical sections (36) of the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) are initially centered in the centering area (108) of the centering sleeves (102) and then move into the seating area (107). As the joining parts (20, 80) approach each other further, the conical sections (35) of the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) contact the centering areas (108) of the centering sleeve inserts (101). The centering sleeves (102) are deformed and pressed against the wall of the sleeve receptacles (89). This compresses the support springs (103). They exert a force on the centering sleeves (102) oriented in the longitudinal direction (15) opposite to the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33). The wedge-shaped centering area (108) of the respective centering sleeve (102) is forced radially outwards in the sleeve receptacle (89).After assembly, the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) are press-fitted into the centering sleeve inserts (101). Each centering and anti-rotation bolt (33) is thus fitted with virtually no play in its respective centering sleeve insert (101). During assembly, the loose part (80) and the fixed part (20) achieve a high degree of positioning accuracy relative to each other.

[0053] When the two joining parts (20, 80) are separated, the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) are pulled out of the centering sleeve inserts (101). The locking device (104) prevents the centering sleeve insert (101) from coming loose from the loose part (80).

[0054] The Fig. Figure 15 shows an exchange adapter system in the operating position. This exchange adapter system (10) has different geometric dimensions than the one shown in the Fig. Figures 1-12 show the exchange adapter system (10). The fixed part (20) and the loose part (80) are joined together in this illustration. The fixed part (20) and the loose part (80) abut each other at the interface (16). The centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) are firmly seated in the centering sleeve inserts (101). In the illustration of the Fig. 15 The cylinder section (36) protrudes from the centering sleeve (102) into the area of ​​the support spring (103). The support spring (103) may be compressed.

[0055] The locking bolt (61), biased by the spring (73), is in its operating end position. The locking piston (61) rests with its transition area (67) against the locking areas (45) of the engagement bolts (41). The engagement bolts (41) are radially extended outwards. The locking bolts (41) engage the retaining surface (96) of the retaining ring (91) with their engagement wedge surface (52). As the locking bolts (41) move radially, the two joining parts (20, 80) are pressed together at the interface (16), so that the two joining surfaces (31, 83) are securely in contact. The media transitions are connected in a way that is both operationally reliable and leak-proof.

[0056] In the Fig. 1. The loose part (80) is held in a storage station (140). The storage station (140) is, for example, fixed in space, e.g., on a tool changer rack. The storage station (140) is in the Fig. 16 and Fig. Figure 17 shows the device. It has two receiving channel sections (142) on one receiving side (141). These receiving channel sections (142) are arranged in a V-shape, spaced apart from each other. The apex of the imaginary V points downwards. The opening angle limited by the receiving channel sections (142) is, for example, 20 degrees. Each receiving channel section (142) has a receiving strip (143) and a retaining strip (144) that delimits the receiving channel section (142).

[0057] In the opening area of ​​the receiving channel sections (142), a locking plunger (145) projects from the receiving side (141). The locking plunger (145) is part of a locking assembly (146) arranged in the storage station (140). The free end face (147) of the locking plunger (145) is designed as a vertically oriented surface. It is also conceivable to design the end face (147) as an inclined surface. A rotation and removal lock (148) limits the movement of the locking plunger (145).

[0058] The locking plunger (145) is biased into an extended position by means of a plunger spring (149). In the exemplary embodiment, the plunger spring (149) is designed as a compression spring. Instead of the illustrated coil spring, an air spring can also be used as the plunger spring (149). The locking plunger (145) is supported against the plunger spring (149) by a plunger piston (151). The plunger piston (151) carries a sealing ring (152) which, in a plunger recess of the storage station (140), separates a spring chamber (153) from a pressure chamber (154). The pressure chamber (154) can, for example, be pneumatically actuated to retract the locking plunger (145) against the force of the plunger spring (149). It is also conceivable to return the plunger piston (151) hydraulically, electrically, or magnetically. In the exemplary embodiment, the spring chamber (153) is also media-controlled and can be electrically or magnetically actuated. It can, for example, be pneumatically actuated.In the exemplary embodiment, a sensor (157) for position detection of the locking plunger (145) is arranged in the housing (156) of the storage station (140). This sensor (157) can be monitored from the outside of the housing (156). This allows monitoring of a secure locked position and / or a secure release of the locking plunger (145).

[0059] A storage adapter sensor (158) is arranged on the receiving side (141) of the storage station (140). This storage adapter sensor (158) is dampened as soon as a storage adapter (120) is seated in the receiving channel sections (142). This storage adapter sensor (158) is used, for example, to enable subsequent functions, such as unlocking the exchange adapter system (10).

[0060] The Fig. Figure 19 shows the storage adapter (120). In the illustration shown, this adapter has holes for screws for fastening to the loose part (80). The storage adapter (120) has two rail sections (121) that are complementary to the receiving channel sections (142). These rail sections (121) allow the storage adapter to be attached to the loose part (80). Fig. 18. The loose part (80) is held on the storage adapter (120). The two rail sections (121) together define, for example, a V- or U-shaped locking recess (122) that opens upwards. In the area of ​​the tip formed by the rail sections (121), the locking plunger guide recess (123) facing the storage station (140) can be chamfered. For example, the locking plunger guide recess (123) forms an angle of 30 degrees with a vertical plane. When the storage adapter (120) is inserted into the storage station (140), the locking plunger (145) can be pushed into the storage station (140) by means of this locking plunger guide recess (123), for example, against the force of the plunger spring (149). As soon as the storage adapter (120) is inserted into the storage station (140), the locking plunger (145) springs into the locking recess (122), relieving the plunger spring (149). The storage adapter (120) is now secured in the storage station (140).

[0061] The fixed part (20) is shown in the representation of the Fig. 1. A release adapter (75) is attached. Fig. 18 and Fig. Figure 20 shows the release adapter (75). The release adapter (75) has a projecting actuating element (76). In the exemplary embodiment, this is an actuating pin (76) that points towards the storage station (140). The actuating pin (76) has an end face (77) with a wedge-shaped end surface (78) that is chamfered in some areas. The angle of the wedge-shaped end surface (78) to a vertical plane can correspond to the angle that the locking plunger guide recess (123) forms with this plane.

[0062] As the fixed part (20) approaches the loose part (80) held in the storage station (140), the locking piston (61) in the fixed part (20) is lifted into the release position. The locking bolts (41) are now freely displaceable in the radial direction within the section defined by the stroke and rotation limit (42). Upon contact with the retaining ring (91), the return wedge surface (53) of the locking bolts (41) engages the insertion surface (95) of the retaining ring (91). The return wedge surface (53) and the insertion surface (95) slide against each other, displacing the locking bolts (41) radially inwards. As soon as the center plane of the locking bolts (41), oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (15), passes the center plane of the retaining wedge (97) of the retaining ring (91), the locking piston (61) is released. The relaxing spring (73) and any additional pneumatic pressure that may be built up moves the locking piston (61) downwards.The frustoconical portion (68) of the locking piston (61) initially engages the control area (47) of the locking bolts (41). The coefficient of friction µ of this material pairing is, for example, between 0.03 and 0.07. This ensures proper function even if the contacting surfaces become smooth due to wear. The locking bolts (41) are then displaced radially outwards, engaging behind the retaining ring (91). When the locking piston (61) engages the control area (47), a high gear ratio is achieved, causing the locking bolts (41) to move radially by a large amount.

[0063] As soon as the frustoconical area (68) or the transition area (67) of the locking piston (61) reaches the damping area (46) of the locking pistons (41), self-locking occurs to prevent any potential return stroke. The locking bolts (41) cannot displace the locking piston (61). The wedge mechanism, consisting of the locking piston (61) and the locking bolts (41), prevents the loose part (80) from being lost, even in the event of a spring (73) or pneumatic failure. The loose part (80) and the fixed part (20) are joined together.

[0064] As the fixed part (20) approaches the loose part (80) further, the frustoconical section (68) slides along the locking section (45). In this section, a higher force is transmitted by means of the wedge drive formed by the locking plunger (61) and the locking bolts (41), so that the locking bolts (41) securely engage behind the retaining ring (91). In this section, the transmission has a very low efficiency during a return stroke, e.g., less than 5%. The internal forces applied by the spring (73) are greater in the transmission section than the forces that can be applied to the engagement face (51) during operation and in the event of a malfunction. Thus, the geometric design of the locking section (45) prevents a return stroke of the locking piston (61).The aforementioned tolerance range of the slopes, together with the aforementioned coefficients of friction of the material pairing, ensures the aforementioned inhibition even in the event of possible wear of the contacting surfaces.

[0065] When the fixed part (20) is joined to the loose part (80), the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) engage in the corresponding centering sleeves (102). This establishes the position of the fixed part (20) relative to the loose part (80). The position of the longitudinal slots (105) relative to the centerline of the exchange adapter system (10) ensures a secure seating of the centering and anti-rotation bolts (33) in the centering sleeve inserts (101) when the joining partners (20, 80) are subjected to circumferential load relative to each other.

[0066] When the loose part (80) is joined to the fixed part (20), the actuating pin (76) with its wedge-shaped end face (78) contacts the locking plunger (145). The locking plunger (145) is moved towards the storage station (140). The locking mechanism of the storage adapter (120) in the storage station (140) is released. When the fixed part (20) is lifted, the loose part (80) connected to it is removed from the storage station (140).

[0067] When the loose part (80) is placed in the storage station (140), the storage adapter (120), e.g., with the locking plunger guide recess (123), comes into contact with the locking plunger (145). The locking plunger (145) is then inserted.

[0068] After the loose part (80) is placed in the storage station (140), the locking piston (61) is first released, as described above. The fixed part (20) can now be lifted, with the locking plunger (145) engaging in the locking recess (122). The centering and anti-rotation pins (33) are pulled out of the centering sleeve inserts (101). The fixed part (20) can now, for example, pick up another loose part (80) with a different tool.

[0069] It is conceivable to combine the individual implementation examples with each other. Reference symbol list: 1 Environment 10 exchange adapter system 14 Center line 15 Longitudinal direction 16 Interface 20 Fixed part; joining part 21 solid case enclosures 22 Mounting flange 23 Centering ring 24 transformers 25 media transmitters 26 transmitters for power, data and signals 27 Entrance from (25) 28 transition outputs from (25) 29 sealing rings 31 Joining side of (20) 32 media connections 33 centering and anti-rotation bolts 34 mounting threads 35 Cone section 36 Cylinder section 37 locking bolt carriers 38 guide ball 39 intervention plugs 41 locking elements, locking bolts 42 Stroke and rotation limiter 43 Guide groove 44 Actuating front 45 Security area 46 inhibition range 47 Control area 51 Interventional frontal side 52 Wedge surface, engagement wedge surface 53 Wedge surface, return wedge surface 61 locking pistons 62 Piston disc 63 locking pins 64 disc groove 65 Piston seal 66 cylindrical area 67 Transition area 68 frustoconical area 69 floor area 71 Piston mount 72 Case covers 73 Spring, compression spring 75 release adapters 76 Actuating element, actuating pin 77 Front side of (76) 78 Wedge-shaped end face 80 Loose part; Joining part 81 Surface area 82 transformers 83 Add-on page 84 Tool page 85 Breakthrough, central 86 Loose-part housings 87 media inputs 88 media outputs 89 cartridge cases 91 Holder ring 92 fastening screws 93 Support ring 94 Locking ring 95 insertion area 96 holding surface 97 retaining wedge 101 Centering sleeve insert 102 Centering sleeve 103 Support spring, disc spring assembly 104 Loss protection 105 longitudinal slots 106 Deformation point 107 Setting area 108 Centering area 109 bolt holder 111 Exclusion 112 Investment area 113 Safety pin 120 storage adapters 121 track sections 122 Blocking exemption 123 Safety plunger guide recess 140 storage stations 141 Recording page 142 intake channel sections 143 Recording bar 144 fuse strip 145 safety plungers 146 Security Group 147 Front surface 148 Anti-rotation and anti-lift device 149 plunger spring 151 Tappet piston 152 Sealing ring 153 Spring space 154 Printing chamber 155 Lifting stop 156 cases out of (140) 157 Sensor for position detection of (145) 158 Storage adapter sensor µ coefficient of friction

Claims

[1] Exchange adapter system (10) with a fixed part (20) and with an exchangeable loose part (80), wherein in an operating position the fixed part (20) and the loose part (80) are positively joined to each other in an interface (16) and wherein a degree of assembly freedom oriented in a longitudinal direction (15) of the exchange adapter system (10) is blocked by means of locking elements (41) that are radially displaceable to the longitudinal direction (15), - wherein the locking elements (41) are locking bolts (41) mounted in the fixed part (20) with a multi-axially curved actuating end face (44) and with a wedge-shaped engagement end face (51), - wherein a locking piston (61) is mounted in the fixed part (20) which is loaded in the longitudinal direction (15) in the direction of the interface (16) by means of a spring (73) and can be opened by means of media or electrically, - wherein in the operating position the locking piston (61) rests on the actuating end face (44) of each locking bolt (41) along a contact line or along a contact surface having a contact line - wherein the actuating end face (44) is curved in two orthogonal planes and - wherein an engagement wedge surface (52) of the engagement end face (51) of each locking bolt (41) rests against a frustoconical retaining surface (96) of the loose part (80) in the operating position. [2] Exchange adapter system (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the locking bolts (41) are mounted in an engagement pin (39) oriented in the longitudinal direction (15) which engages in the loose part (80). [3] Exchange adapter system (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that in the fixed part (20) a stroke and rotation limiter (42) is arranged for each individual locking bolt (41). [4] Exchange adapter system (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that one of the curvature planes of the actuating end face (44) is oriented circumferentially to a center line (14) of the exchange adapter system (10), wherein the respective radius center point is offset from the actuating end face (44) in the direction of the center line (14). [5] Exchange adapter system (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the actuating end face (44) has a simply curved damping area (46) which forms an angle between two degrees and five degrees with the longitudinal direction (15). [6] Exchange adapter system (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the actuating end face (44) has a simply curved locking area (45) which forms an angle between 7 degrees and 12 degrees with the longitudinal direction (15). [7] Exchange adapter system (10) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the loose part (80) has a retaining ring (91) which has at least the retaining surface (96) and an insertion surface (95) facing away from the retaining surface (96).

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