LEVELING SHOE AND METHOD FOR MOUNTING A LEVELING SHOE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a leveling shoe with a base plate having a bottom surface and a first sliding surface, a head plate having a standing surface and a second sliding surface, and with a wedge element arranged between the base plate and the head plate adjacent to the first and second sliding surfaces, wherein the wedge element has a screw spindle which is rotatably mounted in the wedge element and non-displaceably in an axial direction of the screw spindle, wherein rotation of the screw spindle causes displacement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for mounting such a leveling shoe.

[0003] Such a leveling shoe is known, for example, from the documents DE 44 29 813 C2 and DE 10 2008 060334 A1.

[0004] DE 10 2008 060334 A1 shows a car body of a rail vehicle with a wet cell installed therein, which is supported on a floor area of ​​the car body, wherein the wet cell has a self-supporting floor and at least one height-adjustable and fixable support is provided, which is arranged between the floor of the wet cell and the floor area of ​​the car body.

[0005] Leveling shoes are used to support machines and systems on a floor, allowing for precise alignment of the machine or system after installation. In particular, such leveling shoes are used for installing forming machines, machine tools and systems, presses, punching machines, hammers, milling machines, lathes, pumps, compressors, air conditioning units, motors, fans, ventilation units, air conditioning units, and aggregates. Furthermore, after leveling, i.e., aligning the machine, the leveling shoes are tightened to remove any remaining play in the leveling shoes. In this way, the leveling shoes can have a positive effect on the dynamic behavior of the installed machine or system.

[0006] Typically, damping is applied around the machine feet to prevent the propagation of sound waves, especially structure-borne sound waves, and vibrations from the machine. This can reduce the dynamic load on the machine and also reduce the noise and vibrations caused by the machine.

[0007] The structure of a leveling shoe is usually three-part. A wedge element is provided between a base plate and a head plate, which can be screwed in or out between the base plate and the head plate using a screw spindle. Due to the wedge surfaces, the horizontal movement of the wedge element in the operating position can cause a vertical movement of the head plate relative to the base plate. This levels the machine. The screw spindle provided in the wedge element is screwed to an anchoring element. The anchoring element, in turn, is fixed in the base plate and the head plate in such a way that movement of the anchoring element in a longitudinal direction of the screw spindle is not possible. In this way, turning the screw spindle can cause the wedge element to move horizontally or vertically.in the longitudinal direction of the screw spindle relative to the base plate and the head plate.

[0008] The screw spindle therefore usually has a fine thread to achieve a height change with the lowest possible torque applied to the screw spindle. Such a thread can, for example, be so fine that one rotation of the screw spindle results in a height change of approximately 1 µm.

[0009] An important aspect of the leveling shoe's design is that the screw spindle can rotate with as little rotational resistance as possible in a through-thread of the anchoring element through which the screw spindle is screwed. However, due to loads, the screw spindle may experience bending perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, which may cause the thread to become jammed or result in significantly greater rotational resistance in the through-thread.

[0010] For this reason, it was proposed, for example, in the document DE 44 29 813 C2, to provide a type of pin on the screw spindle which is freely rotatably mounted in the wedge element.

[0011] However, such a pin must still have a certain amount of play in the wedge element's bearing to ensure it can rotate freely. This play can still cause the screw spindle to bend by a certain angle. However, due to the screw spindle's fine thread, even such a slight deflection of the screw spindle can lead to increased rotational resistance.

[0012] Another important aspect of such leveling devices is the attachment of the machine to be mounted to the leveling device. Typically, the base of a machine or system has a central attachment, e.g., by means of a screw connection. Accordingly, this attachment would also have to be screwed centrally or centrally, at least through the head plate of the leveling device, to provide a corresponding connection that applies symmetrical loads to the leveling device. However, it is precisely in this position that the anchoring element is often provided to provide central support for the screw spindle and a substantially symmetrical structure of the leveling device, thus ensuring dynamically predictable behavior.

[0013] The document DE 10 2011 106 679 B3 shows a leveling shoe with a base plate having a bottom surface and a first sliding surface, a head plate having a standing surface and a second sliding surface, and with a wedge element arranged between the base plate and the head plate adjacent to the first and second sliding surfaces, wherein the wedge element has a screw spindle which is rotatably mounted in the wedge element and non-displaceably in an axial direction of the screw spindle, wherein the leveling shoe further has a first anchoring element through which the screw spindle is screwed, and wherein the leveling shoe further has a second anchoring element through which the screw spindle is screwed, wherein the first anchoring element and the second anchoring element are fixed in the base plate and the head plate in such a way,that a rotation of the screw spindle causes a displacement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate.,

[0014] However, with conventional leveling devices, there is a risk that the leveling of the machine will deteriorate over time once the machine to be stored is attached to the leveling device. This is because the screw spindle of one or more machine mounts located underneath the machine in question can become loose due to machine vibrations. Such unintentional loosening of the screw spindle causes a horizontal movement of the wedge element and thus a vertical movement of the head plate relative to the base plate, which in turn leads to a loss of the adjusted leveling. This problem also occurs when the machine is bolted to the floor via the machine mounts, because in this case, the screw spindle can also become loose due to machine vibrations.

[0015] It is well known that screw connections are subjected to a wide range of stresses in practice, which can lead to them becoming accidentally loose. In order to secure screw connections against settling, loosening, or loss, there are various types of screw locking devices to prevent them from coming loose on their own. Adhesive anti-loosening devices are usually used to ensure the desired preload of a screw connection. During assembly, adhesive is applied to the gap between the external and internal threads. This adhesive hardens there and, through its adhesive force on the surface and cohesive forces within the adhesive, prevents movement in the thread. However, such adhesive connections are unsuitable for use in leveling devices, as leveling devices are frequently readjusted, meaning that the adhesive connection would have to be removed and reattached frequently.

[0016] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved leveling shoe that enables precise and vibration-resistant leveling of machines.

[0017] According to a first aspect of the invention, a leveling shoe is therefore proposed, comprising a base plate having a bottom surface and a first sliding surface, a head plate having a standing surface and a second sliding surface, and a wedge element arranged between the base plate and the head plate so as to bear against the first and second sliding surfaces. The wedge element has a screw spindle which is mounted in the wedge element so as to be rotatable and immovable in an axial direction of the screw spindle. Rotation of the screw spindle causes the wedge element to be displaced relative to the head plate and the base plate. The leveling shoe further comprises a locking device, in particular a mechanical locking device, for preventing the wedge element from being displaced relative to the head plate and the base plate. The locking device interacts with the screw spindle.In particular, displacement is avoided by a positive locking and / or frictional locking.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the invention, a leveling shoe is therefore proposed, comprising a base plate having a bottom surface and a first sliding surface, a head plate having a standing surface and a second sliding surface, and a wedge element arranged between the base plate and the head plate so as to bear against the first and second sliding surfaces. The wedge element has a screw spindle which is mounted in the wedge element so as to be rotatable and immovable in an axial direction of the screw spindle. Rotation of the screw spindle causes the wedge element to be displaced relative to the head plate and the base plate. The leveling shoe further comprises a locking device, in particular a mechanical locking device, for preventing the wedge element from being displaced relative to the head plate and the base plate, the locking device interacting with the wedge element.In particular, displacement is avoided by a positive locking and / or frictional locking.

[0019] Split pin locks in castle nuts are generally suitable for securing screw spindles. However, they may not be very precise. A castle nut is an extended special form of the hexagon nut which has a type of slotted ring, the so-called crown, on the top side of the nut, perpendicular to its axis. This crown serves to secure the nut against twisting with the help of a split pin. For this purpose, a cross-hole is provided in the screw shaft through which the split pin is guided. The split pin engages in the crown of the castle nut and thus connects the castle nut to the screw. In some cases, it can be problematic that such castle nuts have a standardized number of slots which are separated from one another in the circumferential direction by corresponding webs. In order to secure the screw, the cross-hole provided in the screw must be aligned with two opposite slots in the castle nut.However, during leveling, the screw spindle can assume a variety of intermediate angular positions that do not allow such alignment or only allow it at the expense of play.

[0020] The screw spindle can be mounted in the wedge element in different ways. For example, the screw spindle can be screwed to a single anchoring element, which in turn is fixed in the base plate and the head plate in such a way that movement of the anchoring element in a longitudinal direction of the screw spindle is not possible. Alternatively, the screw spindle can be screwed, for example, into both a first anchoring element and a second anchoring element, each of the anchoring elements having a threaded through-bore through which the screw spindle is threaded.In this case too, each of the two anchoring elements is fixed in both the head plate and the base plate in such a way that movement of the respective anchoring element in a longitudinal direction of the screw spindle is not possible, so that rotation of the screw spindle in the first anchoring element and in the second anchoring element causes a relative movement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate, whereby a distance between the head plate and the base plate can be adjusted. Alternatively, the leveling shoe can also have a support element firmly connected to the base plate, through which the spindle shaft is guided. In this alternative, the support element preferably has a threaded sleeve through which the spindle shaft is screwed.The threaded sleeve can, for example, be mounted on a roller bearing, allowing the spindle shaft to rotate freely during operation while maintaining the adjustment function of the wedge element. This can then be used to level a machine mounted on bearings.

[0021] The term "locking device" refers to a mechanical device for preventing displacement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate. Preventing displacement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate can be achieved, for example, by locking or securing the wedge element and / or by locking or securing the screw spindle rotatably mounted in the wedge element. This can be achieved, in particular, by a frictional connection and / or a positive connection.

[0022] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for mounting a leveling shoe is proposed, comprising the following steps: Providing a leveling shoe with a base plate having a bottom surface and a first sliding surface, a head plate having a standing surface and a second sliding surface, and with a wedge element arranged between the base plate and the head plate adjacent to the first and second sliding surfaces, wherein the wedge element has a screw spindle that is rotatably mounted in the wedge element and is non-displaceable in an axial direction of the screw spindle, wherein rotation of the screw spindle causes displacement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate, providing a locking device for preventing displacement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate, leveling the leveling shoe by means of the screw spindle, and locking the leveled leveling shoe by means of the locking device, wherein the locking device interacts with the screw spindle.

[0023] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method for mounting a leveling shoe is proposed, comprising the following steps: Providing a leveling shoe with a base plate having a bottom surface and a first sliding surface, a head plate having a standing surface and a second sliding surface, and with a wedge element arranged between the base plate and the head plate adjacent to the first and second sliding surfaces, wherein the wedge element has a screw spindle which is rotatably mounted in the wedge element and immovably mounted in an axial direction of the screw spindle, wherein rotation of the screw spindle causes the wedge element to be displaced relative to the head plate and the base plate, Providing a locking device for preventing displacement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate, leveling the leveling shoe by means of the screw spindle, and locking the leveled leveling shoe by means of the locking device, wherein the locking device interacts with the wedge element.

[0024] In this way, a leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention or one of its embodiments or a leveling shoe according to the second aspect or one of its embodiments and the corresponding advantages is mounted.

[0025] The task posed at the beginning is thus completely solved.

[0026] In one embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a holding device fastened to the wedge element for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device is a fastening element mounted in a rotationally fixed manner on the holding device, which can be coupled to a spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-transmitting manner.

[0027] A "holding device" refers to a support profile that is detachably or permanently connected to the wedge element. The screw spindle rests against the wedge element with a spindle head along an axial direction of the screw spindle and can be rotated by an operator manually or using a suitable tool. By means of a spindle nut screwed onto the screw spindle, the screw spindle can be fixed in the axial direction of the screw spindle relative to the wedge element, so that the screw spindle cannot move in the axial direction relative to the wedge element. The fastening element is designed to form a torque-transmitting coupling with the spindle head of the screw spindle."Torque-transmitting" means that while a certain degree of clearance is provided between the fastening element and the screw spindle, particularly for coupling, no relative movement of the elements to each other exceeding this. This allows for instantaneous torque transmission.

[0028] The fastening element can, for example, have a shaft with an end section designed as an external hexagon, which can be connected in an aligned and torque-transmitting manner to a spindle head of the screw spindle designed as an internal hexagon. Alternatively, the fastening element can, for example, have a shaft with an end section designed as an internal hexagon, which can be connected in an aligned and torque-transmitting manner to a spindle head of the screw spindle designed as an external hexagon. It goes without saying that the aforementioned driving profiles do not necessarily have to be hexagonal profiles. Alternatively, other driving profiles that enable a torque-transmitting coupling between the fastening element and the spindle head are also conceivable (e.g., oval, triangular, square, or polygonal driving profiles).

[0029] Furthermore, the fastening element is mounted on the holding device in a rotationally fixed manner, so that the fastening element, which is coupled to the spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-transmitting manner, assumes a locked position in which the screw spindle is secured against unintentional loosening. The fastening element can be secured to the holding device, for example, by means of a lock nut, in particular by clamping the lock nut and a head of the fastening element against the holding device. The fastening element is preferably a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like.

[0030] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that the fastening element extends coaxially to the screw spindle through a through-bore of the holding device.

[0031] The coaxial arrangement of the fastening element and the screw spindle enables a simple and compact coupling of the two elements. Alternatively, the fastening element can also be arranged eccentrically to the screw spindle.

[0032] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that the holding device has a U-shaped or C-shaped cross-sectional profile with two opposite free ends running parallel to the axial direction of the spindle screw, wherein the free ends of the holding device are fastened to outer side walls of the wedge element running parallel to the axial direction.

[0033] The through-hole through which the fastening element extends is preferably arranged in a transverse web extending between the two free ends and coaxial with the screw spindle. This enables a simple and compact coupling of the fastening element mounted on the holding device and the screw spindle. The free ends of the holding device are preferably screwed to the wedge element.

[0034] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a projection for receiving the locking device, and wherein the locking device is a fastening element mounted on the projection in a rotationally fixed manner and which can be coupled to a spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-transmitting manner.

[0035] The projection can, for example, be detachably or permanently connected to a pressure distribution plate and / or connected or connectable to a floor surrounding the leveling shoe. This connection can, in particular, be designed to be positively, non-positively, or firmly bonded. The fastening element, which is coupled to the spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-transmitting manner, is mounted on the projection in a rotationally fixed manner. The fastening to the projection can, for example, be achieved by means of a lock nut, in particular by clamping the lock nut and a head of the fastening element against the projection. The fastening element is preferably a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like.

[0036] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a pressure distribution plate which is connected to the bottom surface of the base plate and has the projection.

[0037] The pressure distribution plate can be provided with a surface area that is larger than that of the base plate. This makes it possible to distribute the pressure acting on the leveling shoe over a larger area of ​​the floor. Particularly in the embodiment with the elastic element for vibration decoupling, it can then be provided that the pressure distribution plate is arranged between the floor and the at least one elastic element on one side of the base plate. The pressure distribution plate is preferably made of metal. Alternatively, the pressure distribution plate can also be made of a non-metallic material. Composite materials are also conceivable. The projection can be detachably or permanently connected to the pressure distribution plate. This connection can in particular be designed to be form-fitting, non-positive, or materially bonded.

[0038] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that the fastening element extends coaxially to the screw spindle and through a through hole of the projection.

[0039] The coaxial arrangement of the fastening element and the screw spindle enables a simple and compact coupling of the two elements. Alternatively, the fastening element can also be arranged eccentrically to the screw spindle.

[0040] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that a play is provided between the fastening element and the through-bore such that the fastening element can be coupled to the spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-transmitting manner over all leveling areas of the leveling shoe.

[0041] The clearance provided between the fastening element and the through hole is necessary to compensate for the vertical movement of the wedge element that occurs during leveling and the associated vertical movement of the spindle head relative to the projection fixedly attached to the pressure distribution plate. "All leveling ranges" refers to the entire operating or working range of the leveling shoe, which lies between a minimum setting, where the distance between the base plate and the head plate is minimal, and a maximum setting, where the distance between the base plate and the head plate is maximum. This ensures a flexible coupling of the fastening element and the spindle head.The fastening element can be attached to the projection, for example, by means of a lock nut, in particular by tightening the lock nut and a head of the fastening element against the projection. The fastening element is preferably a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like.

[0042] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that the fastening element has an outer driving profile and the spindle head of the screw spindle has an inner driving profile complementary to the outer driving profile, wherein the driving profiles can be axially coupled to one another in order to achieve a positive, rotationally fixed connection of the spindle head and the fastening element through the interaction of the driving profiles.

[0043] In this way, a simple and compact anti-loosening device for the screw spindle is achieved. The fastening element can, for example, have a shaft with a driving profile designed as an external hexagon, which can be connected in an aligned and torque-transmitting manner to a driving profile designed as a hexagon socket on the spindle head of the screw spindle. Alternatively, the fastening element can, for example, have a shaft with an end section designed as a hexagon socket, which can be connected in an aligned and torque-transmitting manner to a spindle head of the screw spindle designed as an external hexagon. It goes without saying that the aforementioned driving profiles do not necessarily have to be hexagonal profiles. Alternatively, other driving profiles that enable a torque-transmitting coupling between the fastening element and the spindle head are also conceivable (e.g. oval, triangular, square, or polygonal driving profiles).

[0044] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the first aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a clamping element for clamping the base plate, the head plate and the wedge element, wherein the clamping element is designed in the form of a bolt with a clamping bolt head and a clamping bolt shaft, wherein the clamping element is guided through the base plate from one side of the bottom surface and rests on the base plate with the clamping bolt head, wherein an elongated hole is formed in the clamping bolt shaft and the screw spindle is guided through the elongated hole, and wherein a clamping thread is formed on an end of the clamping bolt shaft opposite the clamping bolt head, so that clamping can be effected by screwing the clamping thread to a counter element.

[0045] Clamping the leveling shoe is important to eliminate any remaining play between the head plate, the base plate, and the wedge element, and to improve the dynamic properties of the leveling shoe. To do this, the head plate, the base plate, and the wedge element are clamped in the operating position in a vertical direction, i.e., perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the screw spindle and / or perpendicular to the base surface of the head plate. Therefore, a clamping element is provided, which, as suggested, is guided from the side of the base surface through the base plate, the wedge element, and into the base plate. The clamping element rests against the base plate with a clamping bolt head. "Resting" here means that the clamping bolt head can rest either on the base surface or in a blind hole formed in the base surface.According to the term "contact", the clamping bolt head can either be in direct contact with the base plate or intermediate elements, such as lock washers, can be arranged.

[0046] In one embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the second aspect of the invention, it is provided that the head plate has at least one threaded bore extending between the standing surface and the second sliding surface for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device is a fastening element rotatably mounted in the at least one threaded bore, which fastening element is movable between a locking position in which the fastening element rests on a surface of the wedge element facing the second sliding surface of the head plate in order to fix the wedge element, and a release position in which the fastening element is spaced from the surface of the wedge element facing the second sliding surface of the head plate.

[0047] Accordingly, at least one threaded bore is provided in the head plate, which extends from the base of the head plate to the second sliding surface of the head plate. The internal thread provided in the threaded bore can extend over the entire thickness of the head plate or only over a fraction of the thickness of the head plate. In this way, after leveling, the wedge element can be frictionally fixed via the at least one threaded bore by means of the fastening element. In other words, the fastening element is pressed against the surface of the wedge element facing the second sliding surface of the head plate. The positioning of the at least one threaded bore in the head plate should preferably be selected such that accessibility of the fastening element is guaranteed even when the machine shoe is installed.

[0048] In one embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the second aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises at least one projection for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device comprises a fastening element which is mounted, in particular in a rotationally fixed manner, in a through-bore of the at least one projection and which is movable between a locking position in which the fastening element bears against an outer side wall of the wedge element running parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle in order to fix the wedge element, and a release position in which the fastening element is spaced apart from the outer side wall of the wedge element.

[0049] The at least one projection can, for example, be detachably or permanently connected to a pressure distribution plate and / or connected or connectable to a base surrounding the leveling shoe. This connection can be made, in particular, in a form-fitting, force-fitting, or materially bonded manner. Preferably, the at least one projection is screwed or welded to the pressure distribution plate and / or the base. A fastening element, in particular a screw, a bolt, a threaded rod, or the like, is attached to the at least one projection. The fastening element is attached to the projection in such a way that it can be moved into contact, in particular frictionally, with the outer side wall of the wedge element running parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle, in order to fix the wedge element against unintentional displacement relative to the head plate and the base plate.

[0050] A single projection with a corresponding fastening element is sufficient to secure the wedge element. Preferably, two projections are provided, with each projection having a fastening element of this type attached to it for securing the wedge element, and the projections each being arranged on two opposite side walls of the wedge element. In this way, the wedge element can be secured, particularly symmetrically, along its outer side walls, which run parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle.

[0051] In an embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the second aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a pressure distribution plate which is connected to the bottom surface of the base plate and has the at least one projection.

[0052] The pressure distribution plate can be provided with a surface area that is larger than that of the base plate. This makes it possible to distribute the pressure acting on the leveling shoe over a larger area of ​​the floor. Particularly in the embodiment with the elastic element for vibration decoupling, it can then be provided that the pressure distribution plate is arranged between the floor and the at least one elastic element on one side of the base plate. The pressure distribution plate is preferably made of metal. Alternatively, the pressure distribution plate can also be made of a non-metallic material. Composite materials are also conceivable. The projection can be detachably or permanently connected to the pressure distribution plate. This connection can in particular be designed to be form-fitting, non-positive, or materially bonded.

[0053] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the second aspect of the invention, it is provided that the at least one projection extends parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle and is designed such that the fastening element can be fixed to the outer side wall of the wedge element over all leveling areas of the leveling shoe.

[0054] To prevent unwanted movement of the wedge element relative to the base plate and the head plate, it must be ensured that the fastening element can be brought into contact with the outer side wall of the wedge element over the entire working range of the leveling shoe in order to fix the wedge element. For example, the through-hole can be arranged in the projection and relative to the wedge element in such a way that the fastening element mounted in the through-hole can be brought into contact with the outer side wall of the wedge element over the entire working range of the leveling shoe. This enables flexible fixation of the wedge element.

[0055] In an embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the second aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises at least one projection with an elongated hole for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device comprises a fastening element which is mounted, in particular in a rotationally fixed manner, in the elongated hole of the at least one projection and which can be screwed to a threaded bore provided in an outer side wall of the wedge element running parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle.

[0056] The elongated hole is necessary to compensate for any horizontal and / or vertical movement of the wedge element relative to the projection, which occurs during leveling and is particularly fixedly attached or attachable to a pressure distribution plate and / or a floor surrounding the leveling shoe. The elongated hole compensates for this relative movement by enabling tracking or adjustment of the fastening element screwed to the side wall of the wedge element to the leveling range of the leveling shoe. The elongated hole can have different orientations. For example, the elongated hole can extend parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle. Alternatively, the elongated hole can also extend parallel to the first sliding surface of the base plate.

[0057] In an embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the second aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a pressure distribution plate which is connected to the bottom surface of the base plate and has the at least one projection.

[0058] The pressure distribution plate can be provided with a surface area that is larger than that of the base plate. This makes it possible to distribute the pressure acting on the leveling shoe over a larger area of ​​the floor. Particularly in the embodiment with the elastic element for vibration decoupling, it can then be provided that the pressure distribution plate is arranged between the floor and the at least one elastic element on one side of the base plate. The pressure distribution plate is preferably made of metal. Alternatively, the pressure distribution plate can also be made of a non-metallic material. Composite materials are also conceivable. The projection can be detachably or permanently connected to the pressure distribution plate. This connection can in particular be designed to be form-fitting, non-positive, or materially bonded.

[0059] In a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to the second aspect of the invention, it is provided that a width of the elongated hole is greater than a diameter of the fastening element, such that the fastening element can be screwed to the outer side wall of the wedge element over all leveling areas of the leveling shoe.

[0060] The "width of the slot" is defined as the distance between the parallel long sides of the slot. This distance corresponds exactly to the diameter of the narrow sides of the slot, which are closed off by semicircles. In other words, a clearance is provided between the slot and the fastening element, which allows for adjustment of the fastening element in response to a movement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate, which is actuated during leveling.

[0061] In one embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a holding device fastened to the wedge element for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device is a fastening element, and wherein the step of locking the leveled leveling shoe comprises the following steps: Torque-tight coupling of the fastening element to a spindle head of the screw spindle, and rotationally fixed fixing of the fastening element, which is torque-tightly coupled to the spindle head of the screw spindle, to the holding device.

[0062] Preferably, the step of torque-tightly coupling the fastening element to the spindle head of the screw spindle occurs before the step of rotationally fixing the fastening element to the holding device. Fixing to the holding device can be achieved, for example, by means of a lock nut, in particular by tightening the lock nut and a head of the fastening element against the holding device. This enables optimal tracking of the fastening element in response to a movement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate, which is actuated during leveling.

[0063] In a further embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, it is provided that the fastening element, which is coupled to the spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-resistant manner and fixed to the holding device, extends coaxially to the screw spindle through a through-bore of the holding device.

[0064] The coaxial arrangement of the fastening element and the screw spindle enables a simple and compact coupling of the two elements. Alternatively, the fastening element can also be arranged eccentrically to the screw spindle.

[0065] In a further embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a projection for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device is a fastening element, and wherein the step of locking the leveled leveling shoe comprises a torque-transmitting coupling of the fastening element to a spindle head of the screw spindle and a rotationally fixed fixing of the fastening element, which is coupled to the spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-fixed manner, to the projection.

[0066] The projection can, for example, be detachably or permanently connected to a pressure distribution plate or a base surrounding the leveling shoe. This connection can, in particular, be designed to be positively, non-positively, or firmly bonded. To lock the previously leveled leveling shoe, the fastening element is coupled to the spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-transmitting manner and then fastened to the projection, in particular by means of a lock nut. The fastening element is preferably a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like.

[0067] In a further embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a pressure distribution plate which is connected to the bottom surface of the base plate and has the projection.

[0068] In a further embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, it is provided that the fastening element, which is coupled to the spindle head of the screw spindle in a torque-resistant manner and fixed to the projection, extends coaxially to the screw spindle through a through-bore of the projection.

[0069] The coaxial arrangement of the fastening element and the screw spindle enables a simple and compact coupling of the two elements. Alternatively, the fastening element can also be arranged eccentrically to the screw spindle.

[0070] In a further embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, it is provided that the fastening element has an outer driving profile and the spindle head of the screw spindle has an inner driving profile complementary to the outer driving profile, wherein the driving profiles are axially coupled to one another for locking the leveled leveling shoe in order to achieve a positive, rotationally fixed connection of the spindle head and the fastening element through the interaction of the driving profiles.

[0071] In this way, a simple and compact anti-loosening device for the screw spindle is achieved. The fastening element can, for example, have a shaft with a driving profile designed as an external hexagon, which can be connected in an aligned and torque-transmitting manner to a driving profile designed as a hexagon socket on the spindle head of the screw spindle. Alternatively, the fastening element can, for example, have a shaft with an end section designed as a hexagon socket, which can be connected in an aligned and torque-transmitting manner to a spindle head of the screw spindle designed as an external hexagon. It goes without saying that the aforementioned driving profiles do not necessarily have to be hexagonal profiles. Alternatively, other driving profiles that enable a torque-transmitting coupling between the fastening element and the spindle head are also conceivable (e.g. oval, triangular, square, or polygonal driving profiles).

[0072] In a further embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of the invention, it is provided that the method further comprises a step of passing a clamping element, which has the shape of a bolt with a clamping bolt head and a clamping bolt shaft, wherein the clamping bolt shaft has an elongated hole for passing the screw spindle, from one side of the bottom surface through the base plate.

[0073] In this way, the method according to the third aspect of the invention can also provide for bracing of the leveling shoe, as described above in one of the aforementioned embodiments of the leveling shoe of the invention. This also provides the corresponding advantages.

[0074] In a further embodiment of the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention, it is provided that the head plate has at least one threaded bore extending between the standing surface and the second sliding surface for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device is a fastening element, and wherein the locking of the leveled leveling shoe is carried out by screwing the fastening element through the threaded bore and against a surface of the wedge element facing the second sliding surface of the head plate.

[0075] Accordingly, at least one threaded bore is provided in the head plate, which extends from the base of the head plate to the second sliding surface of the head plate. The internal thread provided in the threaded bore can extend over the entire thickness of the head plate or only over a fraction of the thickness of the head plate. In this way, after leveling, the wedge element can be frictionally fixed via the at least one threaded bore by means of the fastening element. In other words, the fastening element is pressed against the surface of the wedge element facing the second sliding surface of the head plate. The positioning of the at least one threaded bore in the head plate should preferably be selected such that accessibility of the fastening element is guaranteed even when the machine shoe is installed.

[0076] In a further embodiment of the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises at least one projection with a through-bore for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device is a fastening element which, in order to lock the leveled leveling shoe, is brought into frictional contact with an outer side wall of the wedge element running parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle, in particular and is fixed to the projection in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0077] The at least one projection can be detachably or permanently connected to a pressure distribution plate and / or a base surrounding the leveling shoe. This connection can be made, in particular, in a form-fitting, force-fitting, or materially bonded manner. Preferably, the at least one projection is screwed or welded to the pressure distribution plate and / or the base. The fastening element can be, for example, a screw, a bolt, a threaded rod, or the like. To prevent unwanted displacement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate, the fastening element is brought into frictional contact with the outer side wall of the wedge element.For reasons of symmetry, two projections can also be provided, with each of the two projections having a respective fastening element for securing the wedge element, and the projections each being arranged on two opposite side walls of the wedge element. In this way, the wedge element can be secured along its outer side walls, which run parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle.

[0078] In a further embodiment of the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a pressure distribution plate which is connected to the bottom surface of the base plate and has the at least one projection.

[0079] In a further embodiment of the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention, it is provided that the at least one projection is designed such that the fastening element can be fixed to the outer side wall of the wedge element over all leveling areas of the leveling shoe.

[0080] To prevent unwanted movement of the wedge element relative to the base plate and the head plate, it must be ensured that the fastening element can be brought into contact with the outer side wall of the wedge element over the entire working range of the leveling shoe in order to fix the wedge element. For example, the through-hole can be arranged in the projection and relative to the wedge element in such a way that the fastening element mounted in the through-hole can be brought into contact with the outer side wall of the wedge element over the entire working range of the leveling shoe. This enables flexible fixation of the wedge element.

[0081] In a further embodiment of the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention, it is provided that the leveling shoe further comprises a pressure distribution plate connected to the bottom surface of the base plate with at least one projection with an elongated hole for receiving the locking device, wherein the locking device is a fastening element which, for locking the leveled leveling shoe, is guided through the elongated hole and is screwed to a threaded bore provided in an outer side wall of the wedge element running parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle, in particular and is fixed to the projection in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0082] The elongated hole is necessary to compensate for any horizontal and / or vertical movement of the wedge element relative to the projection fixedly attached to the pressure distribution plate during leveling. The elongated hole compensates for this relative movement by enabling the fastening element screwed to the side wall of the wedge element to track or adjust to the leveling range of the leveling shoe. The elongated hole can have different orientations. For example, the elongated hole can extend parallel to the axial direction of the screw spindle. Alternatively, the elongated hole can also extend parallel to the first sliding surface of the base plate.

[0083] In a further embodiment of the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention, it is provided that a width of the elongated hole is greater than a diameter of the fastening element, such that the fastening element can be screwed to the outer side wall of the wedge element over all leveling areas of the leveling shoe.

[0084] In other words, a clearance is provided between the slotted hole and the fastening element, which allows the fastening element to be adjusted in response to a movement of the wedge element relative to the head plate and the base plate actuated during leveling.

[0085] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0086] Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a leveling shoe according to a first aspect, Fig. 2a-2d shows views of an embodiment of the leveling shoe according to a second aspect, Fig. 3a-3d shows views of a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to a third aspect, Fig. 4a-4d shows views of a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to a fourth aspect, Fig. 5a-5d shows views of a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to a fifth aspect, Fig. 6a-6d shows views of a further embodiment of the leveling shoe according to a sixth aspect, and Fig. 7 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for mounting the leveling shoe according to a seventh aspect.

[0087] The Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a leveling shoe 10 according to the first aspect of the invention. The leveling shoe 10 has a base plate 12 having a bottom surface 14 and a first sliding surface 16. Furthermore, the leveling shoe 10 has a head plate 18 having a standing surface 20, on which a machine or system to be supported (not shown) is to be placed, and a second sliding surface 22. A damping element (not shown), such as an elastomer, can be arranged on the bottom surface 14 for vibration damping. Between the base plate 12 and the head plate 18, a wedge element 24 is arranged adjacent to the first sliding surface 16 and the second sliding surface 22. A through-bore (not shown) is provided in the end face of the wedge element 24. A screw spindle 26 is guided through the through-bore. The screw spindle 26 rests against the wedge element 24 with a spindle head 28.By means of the spindle head 28, the screw spindle 26 can be rotated by an operator by hand or using a suitable tool. By means of a spindle nut (not shown) which is screwed onto the screw spindle 26, the screw spindle 26 can be fixed in an axial direction 30 of the screw spindle 26 relative to the wedge element 24, so that the screw spindle is not movable in the axial direction 42 relative to the wedge element 24. The leveling shoe 10 further has a locking device 32. The locking device 32 is designed to prevent displacement of the wedge element 24 relative to the head plate 18 and the base plate 12. The locking device 32 shown in FIG. Fig. 1 The dashed connecting lines shown between the locking device 23 and the wedge element 24 or the screw spindle 26 indicate that the locking device 32 preferably interacts with the wedge element 24 and / or the screw spindle 26 to prevent the wedge element 24 from being displaced relative to the head plate 18 and the base plate 12.

[0088] To simplify the following directional information, a (Cartesian) coordinate system 34 is shown with an X-axis running parallel to the axial direction 30, and a Y-axis and a Z-axis. Due to the two-dimensional representation of the leveling shoe 10, the Y-axis is shown as a point and extends perpendicular to the X-axis and the Z-axis. In an operating position of the leveling shoe 10, the Z-axis corresponds to a vertical direction, while the X-axis and the Y-axis span a horizontal plane. The leveling shoe 10 is intended to provide height compensation parallel to the Z-axis. The wedge element 24 is movable relative to the base plate 12 and the head plate 18 in the axial direction 30. Due to its wedge shape, the wedge element thus causes a relative movement of the head plate 18 to the base plate 12 parallel to the Z-axis or in the vertical direction.In this way, leveling can be carried out by rotating the spindle head 28.

[0089] The Fig. 2a bis 2d show views of an embodiment of the leveling shoe 10 according to the second aspect of the invention. Like elements are identified by like reference numerals.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, a pressure distribution plate 36, in particular a metal one, is optionally provided, which distributes a pressure applied to the leveling shoe 10 or a load of the machine or system 38 over a larger area of ​​the floor 40. To elastically decouple this type of attachment, an elastic element 42 can be arranged between the floor 40 and the pressure distribution plate 36. The pressure distribution plate 40 is preferably screwed into the floor 40 together with the base plate 12 and the elastic element 42. In this way, the leveling shoe 10 or the base plate 12 of the leveling shoe 10 can be vibrationally decoupled from the floor 40. Optionally, an elastic element 43 can also be provided between the head plate 18 and the machine or system 38. The pressure distribution plate 36 is provided with a surface area that is larger than that of the base plate 12.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the leveling shoe 10 further comprises a holding device 44. The holding device 44 has a U-shaped or C-shaped cross-sectional profile with free ends 46, 48 running parallel to the axial direction 30 of the spindle screw 26 and a transverse web 50 extending between the free ends 46, 48. The free ends 46, 48 of the holding device 44 are screwed to two opposite outer side walls 52, 54 of the wedge element 24, which run parallel to the axial direction 30, by means of two screws 56, 58. The holding device 44 is connected to the wedge element 24 such that the transverse web 50 extends parallel to the Y-axis in the illustrated embodiment. A through-bore 60 is provided in the transverse web 50. The locking device 32 is guided through the through-bore 60. The locking device 32 is preferably a fastening element, e.g.a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like. A shaft 62 of the locking device 32 is coupled in a torque-resistant manner to the spindle head 28 of the screw spindle 26. The shaft 62 can, for example, have a driving profile designed as an external hexagon, which can be connected in alignment and in a torque-transmitting manner to a driving profile designed as a internal hexagon of the spindle head 28 of the screw spindle 26. It goes without saying that the aforementioned driving profiles do not necessarily have to be hexagonal profiles. Alternatively, other driving profiles that enable a torque-transmitting coupling between the locking device 32 and the spindle head 26 are also conceivable, for example oval, triangular, square, or polygonal driving profiles.

[0092] The locking device 32 is attached to the holding device 44 in a rotationally fixed manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 32 is attached to the holding device 44 in a rotationally fixed manner by means of a lock nut 64. The locking device 32 can be secured relative to the holding device 44 by means of the lock nut 64, which is screwed onto the shaft 62 of the locking device 32, in particular by clamping the lock nut 64 and a head 66 of the locking device 32 against the holding device 44.

[0093] The Fig. 3a bis 3d show views of another embodiment of the leveling shoe 10 according to the third aspect of the invention. Identical elements are identified by identical reference numerals; only the differences will be discussed below.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, the leveling shoe 10 has a projection 68 firmly connected to the pressure distribution plate 42 instead of a holding device. The projection 68 extends parallel to the Z-axis relative to a surface 69 of the pressure distribution plate 36 facing the base surface 14, i.e., in the positive Z-direction. Furthermore, the projection 68 extends parallel to the Y-axis. However, it is also possible to connect the projection 68 to a floor surrounding the leveling shoe instead of to the pressure distribution plate 42. A connection to both the pressure distribution plate and the floor surrounding the pressure distribution plate is also possible. Furthermore, a through-bore 70 is provided in the projection 68. The locking device 32 is guided through the through-bore 70. The locking device 32 is preferably a fastening element, e.g., a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like.The shaft 62 of the locking device 32 is coupled to the spindle head 28 of the screw spindle 26 in a torque-resistant manner. The shaft 62 can, for example, have a drive profile designed as an external hexagon, which can be connected in alignment and in a torque-transmitting manner to a drive profile designed as a internal hexagon of the spindle head 28 of the screw spindle 26. It goes without saying that the aforementioned drive profiles do not necessarily have to be hexagonal profiles. Alternatively, other drive profiles that enable a torque-transmitting coupling between the locking device 32 and the spindle head 26 are also conceivable, for example, oval, triangular, square, or polygonal drive profiles.

[0095] The locking device 32 is attached to the projection 68 in a rotationally fixed manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 32 is attached to the projection 68 in a rotationally fixed manner by means of the lock nut 64, which is screwed onto the shaft 62 of the locking device 32, in particular by clamping the lock nut 64 and the head 66 of the locking device 32 against the projection 68.

[0096] Furthermore, in the embodiment according to the second and / or third aspect, the leveling shoe 10 can further comprise a clamping element (not shown) for clamping the base plate 12, the head plate 18, and the wedge element 24. Such a clamping element can, for example, be designed in the form of a bolt with a clamping bolt head and a clamping bolt shaft. The clamping bolt head and the clamping bolt shaft are firmly connected to one another. The clamping bolt head is preferably countersunk into the base plate 12. For this purpose, the base plate 12 has a correspondingly designed clamping through-bore (not shown). A corresponding clamping through-bore is also provided in the head plate 18. An elongated hole through which the screw spindle 26 can be guided is preferably formed in the clamping bolt shaft.As already explained above, the elongated hole provided in the clamping bolt shaft is necessary to provide the possibility of movement of the screw spindle 26 relative to the clamping element during the leveling process so that the leveling process can be carried out.

[0097] If, for example, the wedge element 24 is leveled in the positive Z direction, i.e., "upward," the screw spindle 26 also moves upward. Since the clamping bolt head rests against the base plate 12, the clamping bolt shaft remains stationary. Thus, the elongated hole is necessary to enable movement of the wedge element 24 and the head plate 18 parallel to the Z axis relative to the base plate 12. The elongated hole preferably has a substantially oval shape. The clamping bolt shaft is correspondingly widened to an oval shape. However, this embodiment is also to be understood merely as an example; accordingly, other suitable shapes of the elongated hole and the clamping bolt shaft are of course conceivable.

[0098] At an end of the clamping bolt shank opposite the clamping bolt head, a clamping thread is formed in the clamping bolt shank. The clamping thread is preferably an internal thread, but it can also be an external thread. This makes it possible to screw a machine or system 38 to the leveling shoe 10 and fasten it to the leveling shoe 10, while simultaneously clamping the leveling shoe 10. By screwing the machine or system 38 to the clamping thread, the clamping element is pulled in the positive Z direction, i.e., "upward." Because the clamping bolt head rests against the base plate 12, the base plate 12, the wedge element 24, and the head plate 18 are clamped together parallel to the Z axis. In this way, any remaining play in the leveling shoe 10 is eliminated, significantly improving the dynamic properties of the leveling shoe 10.

[0099] For further explanations regarding the structure and function of the clamping element, please refer to the document DE 10 2011 106 679 B3.

[0100] The Fig. 4a bis 4d show views of another embodiment of the leveling shoe 10 according to the fourth aspect of the invention. Identical elements are identified by identical reference numerals; only the differences will be discussed below.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, two threaded bores 72, 74 are provided in the head plate 18, extending between the standing surface 20 and the second sliding surface 22 of the head plate 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the threaded bores 72, 74 further extend through the optionally provided elastic element 43, which is arranged above the head plate 18. The threaded bores 72, 74 are preferably arranged at a distance from one another in a mirror-symmetrical manner to a center plane 76 of the leveling shoe 10, which extends perpendicular to the horizontal plane. A locking device 32 designed as a fastening means is rotatably mounted in each threaded bore 72, 74. The fastening element is preferably a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like, which is provided with an external thread complementary to the threaded bore 72 or 74.In this way, after leveling, the wedge element 24 can be secured from above, particularly by friction, by means of the locking devices 32 rotatably mounted in the threaded bores 72, 74. For this purpose, the locking device 32 is rotated by an operator manually or using a suitable tool and brought into contact with the wedge element 24. The threaded bores 72, 74 are arranged on the head plate 18 in such a way that they are freely accessible even in an operating state in which the machine or system 38 to be supported is placed on the base 20 of the head plate 18.

[0102] The Fig. 5a bis 5d show views of another embodiment of the leveling shoe 10 according to the fifth aspect of the invention. Identical elements are identified by identical reference numerals; only the differences will be discussed below.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the pressure distribution plate 36 has two projections 78, 80. The projections 78, 80 extend parallel to the Z-axis "upward" relative to the surface 69 of the pressure distribution plate 36 facing the bottom surface 14, ie, in the positive Z-direction. Also in this embodiment, as well as in the embodiment according to the sixth aspect in the Figuren 6a bis 6d However, it is also possible to connect the projections 78, 80 to a floor surrounding the leveling shoe instead of to the pressure distribution plate 42. A connection to both the pressure distribution plate and the floor surrounding the pressure distribution plate is also possible. The projections 78, 80 are preferably screwed or welded to the pressure distribution plate 36. A through-bore 82 or 84 is provided in each of the projections 78, 80, through which the locking device 32 is guided. The locking device 32 is designed as a fastening element. The fastening element is preferably a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 78, 80 are arranged mirror-symmetrically to the center plane 76 and at a distance from the outer side walls 52, 54 of the wedge element 24, which run parallel to the axial direction 30.In order to fix the wedge element 18, the fastening elements mounted in the through holes 82, 84 can be brought into, in particular frictionally engaged, contact with the side walls 52, 54 of the wedge element 24.

[0104] The Fig. 6a bis 6d show views of another embodiment of the leveling shoe 10 according to the sixth aspect of the invention. Identical elements are identified by identical reference numerals; only the differences will be discussed below.

[0105] The embodiment of the leveling shoe 10 according to the sixth aspect of the invention differs from the embodiment according to the fifth aspect of the invention in that an elongated hole 86 is provided in each of the projections 78, 80 according to the sixth aspect of the invention, through which the locking device 32 is guided. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated hole 86 extends parallel to the axial direction 30. A width 88 of the elongated hole 86 is preferably greater than a diameter 90 of the shaft 62 of the locking device 32. The locking device 32 preferably rests with the head 66 against the projection 78 or 80. The locking device 32 is designed as a fastening element. The fastening element is preferably a screw, a threaded rod, a bolt, or the like. In order to fix the wedge element 24, the locking device 32 can be screwed to the wedge element 24.For this purpose, corresponding threaded holes 92, 94 are provided on the outer side walls 52, 54 of the wedge element 24, which preferably extend parallel to the Y-axis into the wedge element 24. As already explained above, the elongated hole 86 is necessary to provide the possibility of movement of the wedge element 24 relative to the projections 78, 80 during the leveling process, so that the leveling process can be carried out.

[0106] In the Fig. 7 A flow diagram of an embodiment of a method 100 according to the seventh aspect is shown schematically.

[0107] After the start of the method 100, in a first step 102 the leveling shoe 10 is first provided with the base plate 12, which has the bottom surface 14 and the first sliding surface 16, the head plate 18, which has the standing surface 20 and the second sliding surface 22, with the wedge element 24, which is arranged between the base plate 12 and the head plate 18 adjacent to the first and second sliding surfaces 16, 22, and with the screw spindle 24, which is rotatably mounted in the wedge element 24 and immovably in the axial direction 30.

[0108] In a step 104, the locking device 32 is then provided to prevent displacement of the wedge element 24 relative to the head plate 18 and the base plate 12.

[0109] In a step 108, the leveling shoe 10 is then leveled by means of the screw spindle 26. For this purpose, the screw spindle 26 can be rotated in particular by an operator by hand or by means of a suitable tool.

[0110] In a further step 110, the leveled leveling shoe 10 is locked by means of the locking device 32.

[0111] When providing the leveling shoe 10 according to the second aspect, step 110 may further comprise a step of torque-proof coupling the fastening element to the spindle head 28 of the screw spindle 26 and a step of rotationally fixing the fastening element, which is torque-proof coupled to the spindle head 28 of the screw spindle 26, to the holding device 44.

[0112] In providing the leveling shoe 10 according to the third aspect, step 110 may further comprise a step of torque-transmittingly coupling the fastening element to a spindle head 28 of the screw spindle 26 and a step of rotationally fixing the fastening element, which is torque-tightly coupled to the spindle head 28 of the screw spindle 26, to the projection.

[0113] When providing the leveling shoe 10 according to the second and / or the third aspect, a step of passing the clamping element from one side of the floor surface 14 through the base plate 12 may further be provided.

[0114] When providing the leveling shoe 10 according to the fourth aspect, step 110 is performed by screwing the fastening element through the threaded bore 72 or 74 and against a surface of the wedge element 24 facing the second sliding surface 22 of the head plate 18.

[0115] When providing the leveling shoe 10 according to the fifth aspect, to lock the leveled leveling shoe 10, the locking device 32 or the fastening element is brought into frictional contact with the outer side wall 52 or 54 of the wedge element 24, which runs parallel to the axial direction 30 of the screw spindle 26. Furthermore, it can be provided that the locking device 32 or the fastening element is subsequently fixed to the projection 78 or 80 in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0116] When providing the leveling shoe 10 according to the sixth aspect, to lock the leveled leveling shoe 10, the locking device 32 or the fastening element is guided through the elongated hole 86 and screwed to the threaded bore 92 or 94 provided in the outer side wall 52 or 54 of the wedge element 24. Furthermore, it can be provided that the locking device 32 or the fastening element is subsequently fixed to the projection 78 or 80 in a rotationally fixed manner.

Claims

1. A leveling shoe (10) comprising a base plate (12) which has a bottom surface (14) and a first sliding surface (16), a top plate (18) which has a standing surface (20) and a second sliding surface (22), and a wedge element (24) which is arranged between the base plate (12) and the top plate (18) in contact with the first and second sliding surfaces (16, 22), the wedge element (24) having a screw spindle (26) which is rotatably and in an axial direction (30) of the screw spindle (26) non-displaceably mounted in the wedge element (24), wherein a rotation of the screw spindle (26) causes a displacement of the wedge element (24) relative to the top plate (18) and the base plate (12), wherein the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a blocking device (32) for preventing a displacement of the wedge element (24) relative to the top plate (18) and the base plate (12), characterized in that the blocking device (32) interacts with the screw spindle (26).

2. The leveling shoe (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a holding device (44) for receiving the blocking device (32), which is attached to the wedge element (24), wherein the blocking device (32) is a fastening element which is mounted on the holding device (44) in a rotationally fixed manner and which is couplable to a spindle head (28) of the screw spindle (26) in a torque-transmitting manner, in particular wherein the fastening element extends coaxially in relation to the screw spindle (24) through a through bore (60) of the holding device (44).

3. The leveling shoe (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a projection (68) for receiving the blocking device (32), and wherein the blocking device (32) is a fastening element which is mounted on the projection (68) in a rotationally fixed manner and which is coupleable in a torque-transmitting manner to a spindle head (28) of the screw spindle (26), in particular wherein the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a pressure distribution plate (36) which is connected to the bottom surface (14) of the base plate (12) and comprises the projection (68).

4. The leveling shoe (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that the fastening element has an outer entrainment profile and the spindle head (28) of the screw spindle (26) has an inner entrainment profile complementary to the outer entrainment profile, the entrainment profiles being axially couplable to one another to achieve a positive-locking and rotationally fixed connection of the spindle head (28) and the fastening element by the interaction of the entrainment profiles.

5. The leveling shoe (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a clamping element for clamping the base plate (12), the top plate (18) and the wedge element (24), the clamping element being configured in the form of a bolt having a clamping bolt head and a clamping bolt shaft, wherein the clamping element is guided through the base plate (12) from one side of the bottom surface (14) and rests with the clamping bolt head on the base plate (12), wherein an elongated hole is formed in the clamping bolt shaft and the screw spindle (26) is guided through the elongated hole, and wherein a clamping thread is formed at an end of the clamping bolt shaft opposite the clamping bolt head, so that clamping can be caused by screwing the clamping thread to a counter-element.

6. A leveling shoe (10) comprising a base plate (12) which has a bottom surface (14) and a first sliding surface (16), a top plate (18) which has a standing surface (20) and a second sliding surface (22), and a wedge element (24) which is arranged between the base plate (12) and the top plate (18) in contact with the first and second sliding surfaces (16, 22), the wedge element (24) having a screw spindle (26) which is rotatably and in an axial direction (30) of the screw spindle (26) non-displaceably mounted in the wedge element (24), wherein a rotation of the screw spindle (26) causes a displacement of the wedge element (24) relative to the top plate (18) and the base plate (12), wherein the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a blocking device (32) for preventing a displacement of the wedge element (24) relative to the top plate (18) and the base plate (12), characterized in that the blocking device (32) interacts with the wedge element (24).

7. The leveling shoe (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that the top plate (18) comprises at least one threaded bore (72, 74) for receiving the blocking device (32), which extends between the standing surface (20) and the second sliding surface (22), wherein the blocking device (32) is a fastening element which is rotatably mounted in the at least one threaded bore (72, 74) and which is movable between a blocking position, in which the fastening element rests against a surface of the wedge element (24) facing the second sliding surface (22) of the top plate (18) in order to fix the wedge element (24), and a release position, in which the fastening element is spaced apart from the surface of the wedge element (24) facing the second sliding surface (22) of the top plate (18).

8. The leveling shoe (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises at least one projection (78, 80) for receiving the blocking device (32), wherein the blocking device (32) comprises a fastening element which is mounted, in particular in a rotationally fixed manner, in a through bore (82, 84) of the at least one projection (78, 80) and which is movable between a blocking position, in which the fastening element rests against an outer side wall (52, 54) of the wedge element (24), which outer side wall extends parallel to the axial direction (30) of the screw spindle (26), in order to fix the wedge element (24), and a release position, in which the fastening element is spaced apart from the outer side wall (52, 54) of the wedge element (24).

9. The leveling shoe (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a pressure distribution plate (36) which is connected to the bottom surface (14) of the base plate (12) and which comprises the at least one projection (78, 80), in particular wherein the at least one projection (78, 80) extends parallel to the axial direction (30) of the screw spindle (26) and is configured such that the fastening element is fixable to the outer side wall (52, 54) of the wedge element (24) across all leveling ranges of the leveling shoe (10).

10. The leveling shoe (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises at least one projection (78, 80) having an elongated hole (86) for receiving the blocking device (32), wherein the blocking device (32) comprises a fastening element which is mounted, in particular in a rotationally fixed manner, in the elongated hole (86) of the at least one projection (70, 80) and which can be screwed to a threaded bore (92, 94) provided in an outer side wall (52, 54) of the wedge element (24), which outer side wall extends parallel to the axial direction (30) of the screw spindle (26).

11. The leveling shoe (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a pressure distribution plate (36) which is connected to the bottom surface (14) of the base plate (12) and which comprises the at least one projection (78, 80), in particular wherein a width (88) of the elongated hole (86) is greater than a diameter (90) of the fastening element, such that the fastening element can be screwed to the outer side wall (52, 54) of the wedge element (24) across all leveling ranges of the leveling shoe (10).

12. A method (100) for mounting a leveling shoe (10), comprising the following steps: - Providing (102) a leveling shoe (10) comprising a base plate (12) which has a bottom surface (14) and a first sliding surface (16), a top plate (18) which has a standing surface (20) and a second sliding surface (22), and a wedge element (24) which is arranged between the base plate (12) and the top plate (18) in contact with the first and second sliding surfaces (16, 22), the wedge element (24) having a screw spindle (26) which is rotatably and in an axial direction (30) of the screw spindle (26) non-displaceably mounted in the wedge element (24), wherein a rotation of the screw spindle (26) causes a displacement of the wedge element (24) relative to the top plate (18) and the base plate (12), - Providing (104) a blocking device (32) for preventing a displacement of the wedge element (24) relative to the top plate (18) and the base plate (12), - Leveling (106) the leveling shoe (10) by means of the screw spindle (26), and - Blocking (110) the leveled leveling shoe (10) by means of the blocking device (32), characterized in that the blocking device (32) interacts with the screw spindle (26).

13. The method (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a holding device (44) for receiving the blocking device (32), which is attached to the wedge element (24), wherein the blocking device (32) is a fastening element, and wherein the step of blocking (110) the leveled leveling shoe (10) comprises the following steps: - Coupling the fastening element to a spindle head (28) of the screw spindle (26) in a torque-resistant manner, and - Fixing the fastening element coupled to the spindle head (28) of the screw spindle (26) in a torque-resistant manner to the holding device (44) in a rotationally fixed manner.

14. The method (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that the leveling shoe (10) further comprises a projection (68) for receiving the blocking device (32), wherein the blocking device (32) is a fastening element, and wherein the step of blocking (110) the leveled leveling shoe (10) comprises coupling the fastening element to a spindle head (28) of the screw spindle (26) in a torque-transmitting manner and fixing the fastening element coupled to the spindle head (28) of the screw spindle (26) in a torque-resistant manner to the projection (68) in a rotationally fixed manner.

15. A method (100) for mounting a leveling shoe (10), comprising the following steps: - Providing (102) a leveling shoe (10) comprising a base plate (12) which has a bottom surface (14) and a first sliding surface (16), a top plate (18) which has a standing surface (20) and a second sliding surface (22), and a wedge element (24) which is arranged between the base plate (12) and the top plate (18) in contact with the first and second sliding surfaces (16, 22), the wedge element (24) having a screw spindle (26) which is rotatably and in an axial direction (30) of the screw spindle (26) non-displaceably mounted in the wedge element (24), wherein a rotation of the screw spindle (26) causes a displacement of the wedge element (24) relative to the top plate (18) and the base plate (12), - Providing (104) a blocking device (32) for preventing a displacement of the wedge element (24) relative to the top plate (18) and the base plate (12), - Leveling (106) the leveling shoe (10) by means of the screw spindle (26), and - Blocking (110) the leveled leveling shoe (10) by means of the blocking device (32), characterized in that the blocking device (32) interacts with the wedge element (24).