Connection device for cables and / or lines for large systems, e.g. a telescope of an astronomical observatory.

Abstract

Connection device (40) for providing cables and / or wires between a fixed platform and a structure (10) rotatable about an axis (Z), comprising: - a rotatable frame (60) which is rotatable about the axis (Z) and comprises a frame base (61) with an outer ring holder (72) and an inner ring holder (78) which is arranged concentrically to the outer ring holder (72) and radially inside it; - at least one first chain group (110) on board the rotatable frame (60), comprising at least one section of at least one chain (B) which receives the cables and wires in a stretched and supported manner within it, the chain (B) extending from a fixed point (Fb) with respect to the platform for the entry of the cables and / or wires to a movable point (Mb) for the exit of the cables and / or wires on the rotatable frame (60), and having an outer section (Be) arranged in the outer ring support (72), an inner section (Bi) arranged in the inner ring support (78), and an arc-shaped section (Ba) connecting the outer section (Be) to the inner section (Bi); - at least a second chain group (210) on board the rotatable frame (60), comprising at least one section of at least one chain (D) extending from a point (Fd) fixed with respect to the platform to a movable point (Md) on the rotatable frame (60), which is fixedly connected to the movable point (Mb) of the chain (B) of the first chain group (110) and has an outer section (De) arranged in the outer ring holder (72), an inner section (Di) arranged in the inner ring holder (78), and an arc-shaped section (Da) connecting the outer section (De) to the inner section (Di); - Primary drive means arranged on the rotatable frame (60) and designed to push the arc-shaped section (Ba) of the chain (B) to set the movable point (Mb) of the chain (B) in motion.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of large-scale systems; in particular, the present invention relates to a connection device for cables and / or lines for a telescope of an astronomical observatory. Background of the invention

[0002] The telescope, equipped with a primary mirror with a diameter between 35 and 40 meters and adaptive optical systems to compensate for distortions caused by the Earth's atmosphere, delivers images of a quality similar to those produced by space telescopes. It is of the alt-azimuth type, meaning it can target an object in the sky using an altitude-azimuth coordinate system that determines the object's position relative to the observer. Specifically, it refers to the altitude and azimuth coordinates, which are defined as follows: Altitude is the angle between the celestial object and the observer's local horizon, ranging from 0° (at the horizon) to 90° (at the zenith, the point directly overhead); for example, an object at the horizon has an altitude of 0° and an object directly overhead (at the zenith) has an altitude of 90°; if an object is below the horizon (not visible), the altitude is negative; - Azimuth is the horizontal angle that measures the direction of the celestial object in relation to the north point; it ranges from 0° to 360° and is measured clockwise (0°: north, 90°: east, 180°: south, 270°: west).

[0003] The telescope's primary mirror is therefore supported by an altitude structure that can rotate around a horizontal altitude axis X to raise and lower the mirror relative to the horizon and track the celestial body in altitude, which in turn is supported by an azimuth structure that can rotate around a vertical azimuth axis Z to track the celestial body in azimuth.

[0004] One of the technical requirements is to be able to supply all electronic, optical and infrastructural devices mounted on board the high-altitude structure via electrical cables and / or fluid lines.

[0005] An example of the implementation of a connection device between the azimuth structure and the height structure is presented in a separate Italian patent application filed on behalf of the applicant. The subject of the present patent application, however, is a connection device for cables and / or wires that acts between the fixed platform and the azimuth structure rotating about the vertical azimuth axis Z.

[0006] The currently existing solutions for routing cables and conduits between movable structures have several disadvantages.

[0007] For example, conventional systems such as cable chains, which contain the cables and wires, tend to suffer energy losses due to friction between the chain segments during their relative rotation. This friction not only reduces the system's efficiency but can also lead to premature wear of the components.

[0008] Furthermore, conventional solutions require frequent maintenance to ensure proper operation. Wear and tear on moving components and the accumulation of deposits can lead to malfunctions that require regular intervention and can interrupt operation.

[0009] Furthermore, maintenance work on known winding devices is quite complex, as the cables and wires are housed in box-shaped structures that prevent direct access. Therefore, to carry out repairs or replacements, the locking elements must first be removed and then reattached before the system can be put back into operation.

[0010] According to the invention, the connecting device enables the routing of cables and / or wires from a fixed structure relative to a platform to a structure rotating about a vertical axis, whereby the cables and wires can be wound or unwound depending on the angle of rotation of the rotating structure relative to the fixed structure.

[0011] In particular, the outer diameter of the rotating structure is very large, for example between 18 and 20 meters, and the cable chains have only two bands, which are also exceptionally large, for example 3 meters high.

[0012] According to one advantageous aspect, the connecting device comprises a single frame that rotates at half the speed of the rotating structure and supports and moves the cable chains. The latter are lightweight because they lack locking plates; this feature prevents wear on the cable chains at the transitions between the frames and the loops.

[0013] Another advantage is that the noise and vibration generation is particularly low, making the device especially suitable for applications requiring the highest precision, such as telescopes for observing the sky.

[0014] Another advantage is that the frame is supported in three positions at 120° intervals by three motorized wheels. These wheels, fixed to the ground, roll along the rail, setting the frame in motion, which in turn moves the cable chains. Thanks to vertical support rollers and lateral guides, the cable chains do not rub against the frame but roll smoothly on it.

[0015] Furthermore, the two strands of the cable chains, which are, for example, 3 meters apart, are connected by pipe posts that form the supports for the wires and cables. These are carried by plastic rollers connected to the posts via a steel rod that serves as a hub.

[0016] Advantageously, the cable chains are fully accessible and inspectable from both outside and inside the frame; the rollers allow for easy replacement of consumers both laterally by disassembling the rollers and axially by inserting or pulling the consumers through the rollers.

[0017] Another advantage is that the already minimal mass of the device can be fixed in place, making its behavior in the event of an earthquake predictable.

[0018] Another advantage is that the connecting device has special sensors that can be used to monitor its function, for example by determining the force required to overcome the static and dynamic friction that opposes the movement of the cable chains.

[0019] Another advantage is that the cable chains, designed with connectors and geometric details to prevent wear caused by movement, are longitudinally pre-tensioned to eliminate backlash angles when the direction of rotation changes; for example, the pre-tension of the inner cable chain is 5,000 Newtons. Furthermore, the device components are dimensioned to prevent stick-slip phenomena during rotation.

[0020] According to another aspect, the motors that drive the frame are dimensioned taking into account the mass and stiffness of a non-standard cable chain, for example with a mass of 130 tons and a diameter of 14 meters.

[0021] Advantageously, the device is designed in such a way as to minimize energy consumption; furthermore, it enables The performance control system offers higher acceleration and improved speed control. Furthermore, feedforward control methods and methods for synthesizing motion profiles are included. Object of the invention

[0022] The object of the present invention is to realize a connection device for the routing of cables and / or lines from the platform to a mobile large-scale system, in particular for a large telescope.

[0023] This objective is achieved by a connecting device according to claim 1. The dependent claims describe further advantageous embodiments of the invention. Brief description of the characters

[0024] The features and advantages of the connecting device according to the present invention will become clear with reference to the following description, which is exemplary and not limiting, and the accompanying figures, wherein Fig. 1 represents a diagram of a telescope; Fig. 2 shows a top view of a connecting device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 a sectional view of the connecting device along section line III-III in Fig. 2 shows; Fig. 4 represents a rotatable frame of the connecting device; Fig. 5 shows a front view of the chain groups of the connecting device; Fig. 6 shows the chain groups; Fig. 7 is a top view of the chain groups; Fig. Figure 8 shows a construction detail of a chain; Fig. 9 is a front view of the chain; Fig. Shows 10 construction details of the chain; Fig. 11 is a top view of the chain groups; Fig. 12 shows the input groups of the connecting device; Fig. 13 shows the output groups of the connecting device; Fig. 14 is a front view of an output group; Fig. Figure 15 is a top view showing the arrangement of the rotary drives of the rotating frame; Fig. Figure 16 shows a motor unit of the rotary drives of the rotating frame; Fig. 17 a plan view showing the arrangement of the earthquake protection devices; Fig. 18 shows a group of connecting elements of the earthquake protection devices; Fig. 19 is a sectional view of the connection group; Fig. 20 auxiliary propulsion devices are shown; Fig. 21 is a top view of a connecting device according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Detailed description

[0025] For clarity, the following description expressly refers to a telescope of an astronomical observatory for the routing of cables and / or lines between a fixed platform and an azimuthal rotating structure; however, as will be evident, the invention is more generally applicable to the routing of cables and / or lines between a fixed platform and a movable, rotatable or displaceable structure.

[0026] According to Fig. Figure 1 comprises an astronomical observatory comprising a telescope 1, all of which rest on a fixed platform with a horizontal ground plane T. On the ground plane T is an azimuth structure 10, rotatable about a vertical azimuth axis Z, and an altitude structure 20, rotatable about a horizontal altitude axis X, which runs parallel to the geographic horizon. Consequently, a Y-axis is defined, such that the X-Y-Z system is a right-handed Cartesian system.

[0027] Telescope 1 also includes electronic and optical systems and infrastructure for observing the celestial sphere, including a large primary mirror with a diameter of about 40 meters, attached to the height structure 20.

[0028] According to the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 The telescope 1 also includes a connection device 40 for cables and / or lines, which is actuated between the fixed platform and the azimuth structure 10 to make the cables and / or lines available at the azimuth structure. The connection device 40 is, for example, arranged below a rotatable platform 10' of the azimuth structure 10.

[0029] The telescope 1 also includes further connecting devices 30 for the routing of the cables and / or lines between the azimuth structure 10 and the altitude structure 20, which are arranged on board the azimuth structure 10.

[0030] According to the Fig. 4 and Fig. The connecting device 40 comprises a rotatable frame 60, which is rotatable about the vertical azimuth axis Z by means of drive means of the rotatable frame, which will be discussed later. The rotatable frame 60 comprises a frame base 61, which consists, for example, of a lower ring 62, an upper ring 64 and a support structure formed from a plurality of vertical or inclined support elements 66, which are supported by the lower ring 62 and support the upper ring 64.

[0031] The lower ring 62 comprises a first outer circular guide 68 and a first inner circular guide 70, which are arranged on the upper surface of the lower ring 62 and project vertically from it. The first inner circular guide 70 is arranged concentrically to the first outer circular guide 68 and radially within it, such that an outer ring support 72 is defined between them.

[0032] Furthermore, the lower ring 62 comprises a second outer circular guide 74 and a second inner circular guide 76, which are arranged on the upper surface of the lower ring 62 and project vertically from it. The second inner circular guide 76 is arranged concentrically to the second outer circular guide 74 and radially outside of it, such that an inner ring retainer 78 is defined between them.

[0033] The inner ring holder 78 is arranged concentrically to the outer ring holder 72 and radially inwards to it.

[0034] For example, the circular guides 68, 70, 74, 76 each consist of a wall projecting from the top of the lower ring 62. For example, the first outer circular guide and the second outer circular guide each form a closed circle; the first inner circular guide and the second inner circular guide, on the other hand, each form an open circle, and at their respective ends, the first inner circular guide and the second inner circular guide are connected by an arc-shaped guide 80, 82.

[0035] Similarly, the upper ring 64 has on its underside a first outer circular guide 88, a first inner circular guide 90, an outer ring holder 92, a second outer circular guide 94, a second inner circular guide 96, an inner ring holder 98 and arc-shaped guides 100, 102.

[0036] According to the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 the rotatable frame 60 carries at least one chain group which carries the cables and / or wires; in particular the rotatable frame carries two chain groups 110, 210.

[0037] In particular, the connecting device 40 comprises a first chain group 110 with an outer chain A and an inner chain B, which accommodate the cables and / or wires in a suitably stretched and supported manner within them.

[0038] Chain A extends from a fixed point Fa for the entry of cables and / or conductors to a movable point Ma for the exit of cables and / or conductors on the rotatable frame 60 in a predefined position of the inner ring holder 78. From the fixed point Fa to the movable point Ma, chain A extends along an outer, circular chain section Ae, which originates at the fixed point Fa and is received in the outer ring holder 72, an arcuate chain section Aa, and an inner, circular chain section Ai, which is received in the inner ring holder 78 and terminates at the movable point Ma. The outer chain section Ae is arranged radially outside the inner chain section Ai and is connected to it via the arcuate chain section Aa.

[0039] Similarly, the chain B extends from a fixed point Fb for the entry of cables and / or conductors to a movable point Mb for the exit of cables and / or conductors on the rotatable frame 60 in a predefined position of the inner ring holder 78. From the fixed point Fb to the movable point Mb, the chain B extends along a circular outer chain section Be, which originates at the fixed point Fb and is received in the outer ring holder 72, an arcuate chain section Ba, and a circular inner chain section Bi, which is received in the inner ring holder 78 and terminates at the movable point Mb. The outer chain section Be is arranged radially outside the inner chain section Bi and is connected to it via the arcuate chain section Ba.

[0040] The inner chain section Ai of chain A is arranged radially inside next to the inner chain section Bi of chain B, with both lying in the inner ring holder 78; analogously, the outer chain section Ae of chain A is arranged radially outside next to the outer chain section Be of chain B, with both lying in the outer ring holder 72.

[0041] The arc-shaped chain section Ba of chain B rests against the first arc-shaped guide 80 of the lower rim 62 and against the first arc-shaped guide 100 of the upper rim 64 of the rotatable frame 60. The arc-shaped chain section Aa of chain A is spaced circumferentially from the arc-shaped chain section Ba of chain B.

[0042] Overall, the outer chain A is wrapped around the inner chain B.

[0043] The connecting device 40 comprises a second chain group 210, which functionally corresponds to the first chain group 110 and comprises an outer chain C and an inner chain D.

[0044] The outer chain C extends from a fixed point Fc for the entry of cables and / or wires to a movable point Mc for the exit of cables and / or wires on the rotatable frame 60 in a predefined position of the inner ring holder 78. From the fixed point Fc to the movable point Mc, the chain C extends along an outer circular chain section Ce, which originates from the fixed point Fc and is housed in the outer ring holder 72, an arcuate chain section Ca, and an inner circular chain section Ci, which is housed in the inner ring holder 78 and terminates at the movable point Mc. The outer chain section Ce is arranged radially outside the inner chain section Ci and is connected to it via the arcuate chain section Ca.

[0045] Similarly, the inner chain D runs from a fixed point Fd for the entry of the cables and / or wires to a movable point Md for the exit of the cables and / or wires on the rotatable frame 60 in a predefined position of the inner ring holder 78. From the fixed point Fd to the movable point Md, the chain D extends along an outer circular chain section De originating from the fixed point Fd and housed in the outer ring holder 72, an arcuate chain section Da, and an inner chain section Di, which is circular, housed in the inner ring holder 78, and terminates at the movable point Md. The outer chain section De is arranged radially outside the inner chain section Di and is connected to it via the arcuate chain section Da.

[0046] The inner chain section Di of the chain D is arranged radially inside next to the inner chain section Bi of the chain B, with both lying in the inner ring holder 78; analogously, the outer chain section Ce of the chain C is arranged radially outside next to the outer chain section De of the chain D, with both lying in the outer ring holder 72.

[0047] The arc-shaped chain section Da of chain D rests against the second arc-shaped guide 82 of the lower rim 62 and against the second arc-shaped guide 102 of the upper rim 64 of the rotatable frame 60. The arc-shaped chain section Ca of chain C is spaced circumferentially from the arc-shaped chain section Da of chain D.

[0048] Overall, the outer chain C is wrapped around the inner chain D.

[0049] More generally, the connecting device 40 comprises a rotatable frame 60, at least one first chain group 110 with at least one section of at least one chain B which accommodates the cables and / or wires inside it, at least one second chain group 210 which comprises at least one section of at least one chain D, and primary drive means which are arranged on the rotatable frame 60 and configured to push the arc-shaped section Ba of the chain B in order to set the movable point Mb of the chain B in motion.

[0050] According to the Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 Each chain A, B, C, D preferably comprises a lower chain base 120 and an upper chain base 122; each chain base 120, 122 consists of a sequence of plate-shaped chain modules 124 which are connected one after the other.

[0051] The lower chain base 120 comprises a plurality of downwardly projecting support wheels 126, which are mounted in their respective outer 72 or inner 78 ring holders, preferably one support wheel for each chain module 124.

[0052] The lower chain base 120 also comprises a plurality of laterally projecting guide wheels 128, which are designed to roll against the respective circular guide 68, 70 of the lower rim 62 and guide the respective chain A, B, C, D into the respective ring holders 72, 78, preferably one guide wheel for each chain module 124.

[0053] Similarly, the upper chain base 124 comprises a plurality of laterally projecting guide wheels 130, which are designed to roll against the respective circular guide 74, 76 of the upper rim 64 and guide the respective chain A, B, C, D into the respective ring holders 92, 98, preferably one guide wheel for each chain module 124.

[0054] Each chain A, B, C, D also includes a plurality of vertical supports 140 connecting the lower chain base 120 and the upper chain base 122; for example, each chain module 124 of the lower chain base 120 is connected to the corresponding chain module 124 of the upper chain base 122.

[0055] Furthermore, each chain A, B, C, D comprises a plurality of support rollers 150 arranged vertically one above the other along the supports 140 to support the cables and / or conductors. Each support roller 150 is shaped accordingly to support a cable or conductor according to the shape and size of its cross-section.

[0056] According to the Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 The connecting device 40 preferably comprises a first fixed inlet group 310 for the entry of the cables and / or wires for the first chain group 110 into the rotatable frame 60, i.e., for the outer chain A and for the inner chain B, and a second fixed inlet group 320 for the entry of the cables and / or wires for the second chain group 210, i.e., for the outer chain C and for the inner chain D, into the rotatable frame 60. The inlet groups 310, 320 are arranged on the platform next to the rotatable frame 60.

[0057] The first entry group 310 comprises an external entry device 312, which is equipped with rollers 314 for supporting the cables and / or lines of the outer chain A, so that they are guided in the curvature required for entry, and an inner entry device 316 with rollers 318 for supporting the cables and / or lines of the inner chain B, so that they are guided in the curvature, and preferably elastic pretensioning means 319, which are functionally connected to the inner chain B in order to permanently elastically tension it.

[0058] Similarly, the second input group 320 comprises an outer input device 322, rollers 324, an inner input device 326, rollers 328 and preferably elastic pretensioning means 329, which are functionally connected to the inner chain D in order to permanently elastically tension it.

[0059] According to the Fig. 13 and Fig. 14 The connecting device 40 preferably comprises a first output group 410 for the exit of the cables and / or wires of the first chain group 110 and a second output group 420 for the exit of the cables and / or wires of the second chain group 210.

[0060] The first output group 410 comprises an output carriage 412, which is attached to the rotating frame 60 and to which the end modules of the outer chain A and the inner chain B are articulated in predefined mounting areas 413. The output carriage 412 is equipped with support wheels 414 to move on the top of the lower rim 62 of the rotating frame 60, and with guide wheels 415 to be guided in motion, for example, by the upper rim 64.

[0061] The starting carriage 412 comprises a fastening structure 416 to which the cables and / or lines exiting from the first chain group 110 are attached, and an articulated structure 417 which supports the cables and / or lines in the required curvature in the direction towards the interior of the rotatable frame 60 via rollers 418 similar to the rollers of the chains.

[0062] Similarly, the second output group 420 comprises an output carriage 422 with mounting areas 423, support wheels 424, guide wheels 425, a fastening device 426 and an articulated structure 427 with rollers 428.

[0063] Preferably, the output car 412 of the first output group 410 and the output car 422 of the second output group 420 are integrated into a single output group 500 and structurally have a single upper output plate 510 and a single lower output plate 520, which support the coupling areas 413 of the first output group 410 and the coupling areas 423 of the second output group 420.

[0064] The first output group 410 also comprises at least one grid structure on the azimuth structure 10, to which the cables and lines at the output of the output car 412 are attached, for example an outer grid structure 430, to which the cables and lines at the output of the output car 412 are attached and guided by the outer chain A so that they are bent upwards, and an inner grid structure 440, to which the lines exiting the output car 412 are attached and guided by the inner chain B so that they are bent upwards. The outer grid structure 430 is arranged around the perimeter next to the output car 412, and the inner grid structure 440 is arranged around the perimeter next to the outer grid structure 430 on the side opposite the output car 412.

[0065] Similarly, the second output group 420 also comprises at least one grid structure on the azimuth structure 10, to which the cables and wires from the output carriage 422 are attached, for example an outer grid structure 432, to which the cables and wires exiting the output carriage 422 are attached and guided by the outer chain C so that they are bent upwards, and an inner grid structure 442, to which the wires exiting the output carriage 422 are attached and guided by the inner chain D so that they are bent upwards. The outer grid structure 432 is arranged circumferentially next to the output carriage 422, and the inner grid structure 442 is arranged circumferentially next to the outer grid structure 432 on the side opposite the output carriage 422.

[0066] According to the Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 The connecting device 40 also includes rotary drive means to set the rotatable frame 60 into rotation.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, these rotary drive means comprise three motor units 610, 620, 630, which are attached to the platform and arranged at equal angular intervals within the rotatable frame 60 and are configured to act on the inner edge of the lower rim 62 of the rotatable frame 60.

[0068] For example, each motor unit 610, 620, 630 comprises an electric motor 611, a first planetary gear set 612, an electromagnetic clutch 613, a second planetary gear set 614, an output shaft 615 and a drive wheel 616 driven by the output shaft 615.

[0069] The ring 62 of the rotating frame 60 rests on the drive wheels 615 of each motor unit 610, 620, 630 and is thus supported in its rotation.

[0070] The electromagnetic clutch 613 is forcibly engaged; that is, it is in an operating position in which it transmits torque between mountain and valley only when a power supply is present; when the power supply fails, the electromagnetic clutch opens and the drive wheel is released.

[0071] Furthermore, the electromagnetic clutch is electrically set to a threshold voltage, so that it opens when the voltage exceeds this threshold, releasing the drive wheel. In other words, the electromagnetic clutch is electrically controlled to open. When all three drive wheels are in freewheel mode, the rotating frame is also in freewheel mode.

[0072] Furthermore, the electromagnetic clutch is mechanically set to a maximum torque, so that it slips if the resistance torque of the drive wheel is too high.

[0073] In addition, the connecting device 40 preferably includes radial guide means to guide the rotatable frame 60 in rotation.

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment, these radial guide means comprise three radial guide groups 650, which are attached, for example, to the respective motor group 610, 620, 630. Each radial guide group 650 comprises a guide wheel 652, which rotates in contact with the inner edge of the lower rim 62 and guides the rotatable frame 60 into rotation.

[0075] Preferably, at least one radial guide assembly 650 is provided with radial preloading means. In this case, the axis of rotation of the guide wheel 652 is radially movable and is permanently elastically acted upon by a suitable mechanism of at least one leaf spring 654.

[0076] Preferably, the mechanism for transmitting the preload force between the leaf spring 654 and the guide wheel 652 is lockable; this deactivates the radial preloading means and forms radial connecting means for the rotatable frame 60.

[0077] According to the Fig. 17 18 and 19 the connecting device 40 preferably comprises earthquake protection devices configured to form fixed stops between the rotatable frame and the platform in the event of an earthquake, thus limiting the maximum radial and vertical displacements to which the rotatable frame could be subjected due to the accelerations and decelerations caused by the earthquake.

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment, these earthquake protection devices comprise at least one connection group, preferably six connection groups 700, which are spaced at an angle and arranged radially within the inner edge of the lower rim 62 of the rotatable frame 60.

[0079] Preferably, the three motor groups 610, 620, 630 are arranged at an angular interval of 120°; between two successive motor groups 610, 620; 620, 630; 630, 610, two connecting groups 700 are arranged at an angular interval of 40° to the motor groups and to each other. Each connecting group 700 comprises a connecting ring 702, which is fixedly connected to and coaxial with the lower rim 62 of the rotatable frame 60, for example, attached to its underside, and a stop group 704 attached to the platform. The stop group 704 comprises an inner radial stop 706, an outer radial stop 708, a lower vertical stop 710, and an upper vertical stop 712.

[0080] The inner radial stop 706 and the outer radial stop 708 define a ring-shaped connecting channel 714 radially; the lower vertical stop 710 and the upper vertical stop 712 define the said connecting channel 714 vertically.

[0081] The connecting ring 702 is located within the connecting channel 714; in normal operation, i.e. without seismic events, the connecting ring 702 is located in the connecting channel 714 with clearance calibrated both vertically and radially.

[0082] In particular, the connecting ring 702 has a radial inner gap opposite the inner radial stop 706 and a radial outer gap opposite the outer radial stop 708; preferably, the radial inner gap is equal to the radial outer gap and is equal to 0.2 millimeters. The connecting ring 702 also has a lower vertical gap opposite the lower vertical stop 710 and an upper vertical gap opposite the upper vertical stop 712; preferably, the lower vertical gap is about 22 millimeters and the upper vertical gap is about 15 millimeters.

[0083] In normal operation of the connecting device 40, activation of the rotary drive means enables the rotatable frame 60 to rotate in one direction or the other at an angular velocity Ω. The rotation of the rotatable frame 60 in one direction or the other causes the arcuate guide 80 of the lower ring 62 and the arcuate guide 100 of the upper ring 64, or the arcuate guide 82 of the lower ring 62 and the arcuate guide 102 of the upper ring 64, to move onto the respective arcuate sections Ba, Da of the respective inner chains B, D, thereby causing the movement of the respective moving point Mb, Mb at an angular velocity 2Ω. The output group 500 also therefore has an angular velocity of 2Ω.

[0084] In general, the arc-shaped guides 80, 100, 82, 102 represent an example of primary drive means configured to push the arc-shaped sections Ba, Da of the inner chains B, D to cause the movement of the respective moving points Mb, Md.

[0085] When the azimuth structure 10 rotates at an angular velocity of Θ to track a celestial body, the rotatable frame 60 rotates at an angular velocity of Θ / 2 so that the output group 500 also has an angular velocity of 2*Θ / 2 = Θ and is thus synchronized with the azimuth structure 10. The lattice structures 430, 440, 432, and 442 are located on board the azimuth structure and therefore move synchronously with the output group 500.

[0086] According to Fig. 20 The connecting device 40 preferably comprises auxiliary drive means that can act between the azimuth structure 10 and the chain groups 110, 210 supported by the rotatable frame 60.

[0087] Advantageously, these auxiliary drive means allow continued operation in the event of a malfunction that prevents rotation of the rotatable frame (in this case, the movement of the chain groups is achieved by driving the azimuth structure).

[0088] According to one embodiment, these auxiliary drive means comprise a pair of guide elements 810, 820, for example tubular, substantially vertical, attached to the azimuth structure and arranged such that the output group 500 of the chain groups 110, 210 is arranged between them in the circumferential direction.

[0089] Each guide element 810, 820 carries a guide stop 830 which in normal operation has a circumferential gap to a corresponding counter-stop 832 of the output group 500.

[0090] The aforementioned auxiliary drive means also include a guide sensor 834 for detecting the relative angular position between the azimuth structure 10 and the output group 500, so that before resetting the damping length the rotational speed of the frame is increased or decreased by acting on the power controls of the motor units 610, 620, 630.

[0091] According to a further embodiment of the invention ( Fig. 21) The connection device is configured to provide for cables and / or conduits between a fixed platform and a movable structure, comprising: - a movable frame 1060, which is movable in the longitudinal direction and comprises a frame base 1061 with an outer ring support and an inner ring support arranged concentrically to the outer ring support and radially inside it; - at least one first chain group 1110 on board the movable frame 1060, comprising at least one section of at least one chain B which guides and supports the cables and / or conductors within it, the chain B extending from a fixed point Fb with respect to the platform for the entry of the cables and / or conductors to a movable point Mb for the exit of the cables and / or conductors on the movable frame 1060 and having an outer section Be arranged in the outer ring support, an inner section Bi arranged in the inner ring support, and an arc-shaped section Ba connecting the outer section Be to the inner section Bi; - at least a second chain group 1210 on board the movable frame 1060, comprising at least one section of at least one chain D extending from a fixed point Fd with respect to the platform to a movable point Md rigidly connected to said movable point Mb on the movable frame 1060, and having an outer section De arranged in the outer ring support 72, an inner section Di arranged in the inner ring support 78, and an arc-shaped section Da connecting the outer section De to the inner section Di; - Primary drive means arranged on the movable frame 1060 and configured to push the arc-shaped section Ba of the chain B to set the movable point Mb of the chain B in motion.

[0092] The remaining structural and functional features correspond to those already described for the embodiment with rotatable frames.

[0093] According to another embodiment, the fixed point of the chain(s) is attached to the platform and arranged outside the rotatable frame.

[0094] According to another embodiment, the movable point of the chain(s) is arranged radially within the respective fixed point.

[0095] The innovative connecting device according to the present invention meets the requirements of large-scale construction and overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art.

[0096] The advantage is that the chains of a chain group are not subject to any relative friction and therefore no wear occurs on the corresponding components and the cables and / or wires contained therein.

[0097] Furthermore, the connecting device according to the present invention advantageously transmits extremely low vibrations to the azimuth structure; this property is of great importance in the specific application area of ​​telescopes due to the required accuracy of observations. In addition, the connecting device exhibits low noise generation.

[0098] Another advantage is that the cables and / or wires are easy to inspect for maintenance, as the chains are accessible from both inside and outside the rotating frame. Furthermore, the cables and / or wires are easily replaceable, as the one to be replaced can simply be pulled out and the replacement cable and / or wire pushed through the support rollers of the chains.

[0099] It is clear that a person skilled in the art could make changes to the connection device described above in order to meet the respective requirements, all of which are included within the scope of protection of the following claims.

Claims

[1] Connection device (40) for providing cables and / or wires between a fixed platform and a structure (10) rotatable about an axis (Z), comprising: - a rotatable frame (60) which is rotatable about the axis (Z) and comprises a frame base (61) with an outer ring holder (72) and an inner ring holder (78) which is arranged concentrically to the outer ring holder (72) and radially inside it; - at least one first chain group (110) on board the rotatable frame (60), comprising at least one section of at least one chain (B) which receives the cables and wires in a stretched and supported manner within it, the chain (B) extending from a fixed point (Fb) with respect to the platform for the entry of the cables and / or wires to a movable point (Mb) for the exit of the cables and / or wires on the rotatable frame (60), and having an outer section (Be) arranged in the outer ring support (72), an inner section (Bi) arranged in the inner ring support (78), and an arc-shaped section (Ba) connecting the outer section (Be) to the inner section (Bi); - at least a second chain group (210) on board the rotatable frame (60), comprising at least one section of at least one chain (D) extending from a point (Fd) fixed with respect to the platform to a movable point (Md) on the rotatable frame (60), which is fixedly connected to the movable point (Mb) of the chain (B) of the first chain group (110) and has an outer section (De) arranged in the outer ring holder (72), an inner section (Di) arranged in the inner ring holder (78), and an arc-shaped section (Da) connecting the outer section (De) to the inner section (Di); - Primary drive means arranged on the rotatable frame (60) and designed to push the arc-shaped section (Ba) of the chain (B) to set the movable point (Mb) of the chain (B) in motion. [2] Connecting device (40) according to claim 1, wherein - the outer section (Be) of the chain (B) of the first chain group (110) begins at the fixed point (Fb) and the inner section (Bi) of the chain (B) of the first chain group (110) ends at the movable point (Mb); and - the outer section (De) of the chain (D) of the second chain group (210) begins at the fixed point (Fd) and the inner section (Di) of the chain (D) of the second chain group (210) ends at the movable point (Md). [3] Connecting device (40) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein - the first chain group (110) comprises an outer chain (A) and the said inner chain (B) which accommodate the cables and / or wires in a stretched and supported manner within it, the said chains (A, B) being arranged side by side such that the outer chain (A) flanks the inner chain (B), and each chain (A, B) extending from the fixed point (Fb, Fa) to the movable point (Mb, Ma) to form a cable and / or wire exit on the rotatable frame (60), and having an outer section (Ae, Be) arranged in the outer ring holder (72), an inner section (Ai, Bi) arranged in the inner ring holder (78), and an arc-shaped section (Aa, Ba) connecting the outer section (Ae, Be) to the inner section (Ai, Bi). [4] Connecting device according to claim 3, wherein - the outer section (Ae, Be) of the aforementioned chains (A, B) begins at the respective fixed point (Fa, Fb) and the inner section (Ai, Bi) of the chains (A, B) ends at the respective movable point (Ma, Mb). [5] Connecting device (40) according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein - the second chain group (210) comprises an outer chain (C) and the inner chain (D), wherein said chains (C, D) are arranged side by side such that the outer chain (C) adjoins the inner chain (D), and each chain (C, D) extends from the fixed point (Fc, Fd) to the movable point (Mc, Md), which are rigidly connected to each other, and has an outer section (Ce, De) arranged in the outer ring holder (72), an inner section (Ci, Di) arranged in the inner ring holder (78), and an arc-shaped section (Ca, Da) connecting the outer section (Ce, De) to the inner section (Ci, Di). [6] Connecting device according to claim 5, wherein - the outer section (Ce, De) of the chains (C, D) begins at the respective fixed point (Fc, Fd) and the inner section (Ci, Di) of the chains ends at the respective movable point (Mc, Md). [7] Connecting device (40) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chain(s) (C, D) of the second chain group (210) also receives / receives the cables and / or wires in a stretched and supported manner within its interior. [8] Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each chain comprises a lower chain base (120) consisting of a sequence of plate-shaped chain modules (124) which are articulated to one another in succession. [9] Connecting device according to claim 8, wherein each chain comprises a plurality of support wheels (126) which are mounted in their respective ring holders (72, 78). [10] Connecting device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein each chain comprises a plurality of guide wheels (128) for guiding the chain along the respective ring holder (72, 78). [11] Connecting device according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein each chain comprises a plurality of vertical supports (140) and a plurality of support rollers (150) arranged vertically one above the other along the supports (140) for holding the cables and / or wires. [12] Connection device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one fixed inlet group (310, 320) for the entry of the cables and / or wires for the chain group (110, 210) onto the rotatable frame (60). [13] Connecting device according to claim 12, wherein the input group (310, 320) comprises elastic pretensioning means (319) which are functionally connected to a chain to permanently elastically tension it. [14] Connecting device according to claim 13 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the elastic pretensioning means (319) are functionally connected to the inner chain (B, D). [15] Connection device according to one of the preceding claims, with at least one output group (410, 420) for the exit of the cables and / or wires of the respective chain group (110, 210) on the rotatable frame (60). [16] Connecting device according to claim 15, wherein the output group (410, 420) comprises an output carriage (412, 422) which is arranged on board the rotatable frame (60) to which end modules of the chain are articulated in predetermined coupling areas (413, 423), wherein the output carriage is provided with a joint structure (417, 427) which supports the cables and / or lines in the required curvature towards the interior of the rotatable frame (60). [17] Connection device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the output group (410, 420) comprises a grid structure on board the structure (10) to which the cables and wires exiting from the output carriage (412, 422) are attached. [18] Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, with rotary drive means for rotating the rotatable frame (60), comprising at least one motor unit (610, 620, 630) attached to the platform with an electric motor (611) and a drive wheel (616) connected to the electric motor, on which the frame base (61) of the rotatable frame (60) rests. [19] Connecting device according to claim 18, wherein the motor unit (610, 620, 630) comprises an electromagnetic coupling (613) which is positively engaged. [20] Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, with radial guide means for rotatably guiding the rotatable frame (60), comprising a plurality of radial guide groups (650) fixedly attached to the platform and each provided with a guide wheel (652) which is in contact with an inner edge of the frame base (61) and guides the rotatable frame (60) in rotation. [21] Connecting device according to claim 20, wherein at least one radial guide group (650) is provided with elastic radial preload means. [22] Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, with seismic limiting means designed to form fixed stops with the rotatable frame (60) to limit the amplitude of the vibrations caused by seismic phenomena. [23] Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising auxiliary drive means configured to act between the structure (10) and the chain assembly (110, 210) to move the chain assembly (110, 210). [24] Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first chain group (110) and the second chain group (210) are arranged symmetrically, and wherein the movable points (Ma, Mb) of the first chain group (110) are rigidly connected to the movable points (Mc, Md) of the second chain group (210) via an output group (500). [25] Connection arrangement comprising: - a connecting device (40) according to one of the preceding claims; - a structure (10) that can be rotated with an angular velocity (Θ); - wherein the rotatable frame (60) of the connecting device (40) is designed such that it can be rotated at an angular velocity (Θ / 2) which is half the angular velocity of the azimuth structure. [26] Telescope (1), comprising: - a fixed platform with a horizontal floor plane (T); - a structure (10) on the ground plane (T) that is rotatable about a vertical azimuth axis (Z); - a height structure (20) that is rotatable about a horizontal height axis (X); - Systems for observing the celestial vault, which are mounted on board the elevation structure (20); - a connecting device (40) for cables and / or wires according to one of claims 1 to 24, which is operable between the fixed platform and the structure (10) to make the cables and / or wires available at the structure. [27] Telescope according to claim 26, wherein the structure (10) is rotatable with an angular velocity (Θ) and the rotatable frame (60) of the connecting device (40) is configured to be rotatable with an angular velocity (Θ / 2) which is half the angular velocity of the azimuth structure. [28] A connecting device configured to provide cables and / or wires between a fixed platform and a movable structure, comprising: - a movable frame (1060) which is movable and comprises a frame base (1061) with an outer ring support and an inner ring support arranged concentrically to the outer ring support and radially inside it; - at least one first chain group (1110) on board the movable frame (1060) comprising at least one section of at least one chain (B) which accommodates the cables and / or conductors in a stretched and supported manner within it, the chain (B) extending from a fixed point (Fb) with respect to the platform for the entry of the cables and / or conductors to a movable point (Mb) and for the exit of the cables and / or conductors on the movable frame (1060) and having an outer section (Be) arranged in the outer ring support, an inner section (Bi) arranged in the inner ring support, and an arc-shaped section (Ba) connecting the outer section (Be) to the inner section (Bi); - at least a second chain group (1210) on board the movable frame (1060) comprising at least one chain (D) extending from a fixed point (Fd) with respect to the platform to a movable point (Md) on the movable frame (1060), which is rigidly connected to the movable point (Mb) of the first chain group (1110) and has an outer section (De) arranged in the outer ring holder (72), an inner section (Di) arranged in the inner ring holder (78), and an arc-shaped section (Da) connecting the outer section (De) to the inner section (Di); - Primary drive means arranged on the movable frame (1060) and configured to push the arc-shaped section (Ba) of the chain (B) to set the movable point (Mb) of the chain (B) in motion.

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