HOUSING PART FOR A PNEUMATIC CLAMPING AND / OR BRAKE DEVICE

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a housing part for a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device and a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device with such a housing part. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In the manufacture of tools or machine parts, processing machines, in particular work spindles or other machine tools, are used which process material from a workpiece using tools attached to a shaft, in particular to give it the desired shape. The shaft can be a rotational axis or pivoting axis of such a machine. Furthermore, rotating or pivoting tables are used by means of a shaft to place tools or workpieces in the appropriate processing position or to move workpieces at appropriate speeds. One of the prerequisites for precise and efficient processing is a high speed of the shaft. Emergency or safety systems are therefore responsible for stopping the shaft in the event of a malfunction or failure of the system, such as a power failure or cable break, or for holding it in a fixed position and thus fixing it.

[0003] Common machining centers are equipped with electromagnetic, hydraulic, or pneumatic clamping and / or braking devices. These devices incorporate a friction lining that can be frictionally connected to the shaft via force transmission. This allows the shaft to be clamped at varying speeds.

[0004] In hydraulic clamping devices, a chamber is pressurized with hydraulic oil, clamping the rotating shaft or disc. Passive hydraulic clamps are also known. However, such hydraulic clamps have long response times, or short response times require considerable effort. Furthermore, the hydraulic material, especially hydraulic valves and hydraulic pipes, is expensive and requires longer assembly times. The hydraulic oil also requires additional effort to maintain cleanliness in the area surrounding a hydraulic clamp.

[0005] In pneumatic clamping and / or braking devices, elastic components, in particular spring plates, are usually pressurized with compressed air and can overcome some of the disadvantages of hydraulic clamping devices mentioned above.

[0006] EP 1 585 616 B1 and EP 1 651 881 B1 describe pneumatic clamping devices with two annular spring plates that are inserted into a housing of the clamping devices and form a pressure chamber therein that can be pressurized with compressed air or ventilated and vented in order to change the bending of the spring plates and thereby switch between a closed state of the clamping devices, in which an object to be clamped, such as a rotatable shaft, is clamped, and an open state of the clamping devices in which the object is free. In practice, however, it has been shown that the desired opening and closing function of the pneumatic clamping devices cannot be achieved axially symmetrically over the circumference of the annular spring plates. For example, an uneven clamping force distribution on the circumference of the shaft and the associated damage to the shaft have been observed.A device according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from CN 107 127 360 A. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Based on the prior art mentioned at the outset, the object of the invention is to enable a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device to reliably achieve its desired symmetrical opening and closing function.

[0008] The invention solves this problem with a housing part having the features of patent claim 1 and with a clamping and / or braking device having the features of patent claim 15. Preferred embodiments are described in the dependent claims, in the description and in the figures.

[0009] According to the solution according to the invention, a housing part for a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device is proposed, the housing part comprising: an annular recess for clamping an annular spring plate between a first contact surface of the housing part, defined by the recess, and a second contact surface of the housing part, defined by the recess; a clamping element with a clamping surface which is designed to transmit a clamping and / or braking force to an object to be clamped and / or braked when the spring plate is clamped in the recess between the first contact surface and the second contact surface in such a way that a first end of the spring plate is supported on the first contact surface, the spring plate extends from the first contact surface to the second contact surface, and a second end of the spring plate presses against the second contact surface;wherein the housing part comprises a first latching means and a second latching means, wherein, when the spring plate is clamped in the recess between the first contact surface and the second contact surface, the first latching means is designed to latch the first end of the spring plate onto the first contact surface and the second latching means is designed to latch the second end of the spring plate onto the second contact surface;

[0010] According to the solution according to the invention, there is further provided a clamping and / or braking device for clamping and / or braking an object to be clamped and / or braked, the device comprising: a housing comprising a first housing part according to the invention and a second housing part according to the invention, wherein the two housing parts are arranged and fastened to one another in such a way that the recesses of the first and second housing parts together form an interior space within the housing;a spring (e.g., a spiral spring, such as a leaf spring) arranged in the interior space, comprising a first annular spring plate (e.g., a spiral spring, such as a leaf spring) and a second annular spring plate (e.g., a spiral spring, such as a leaf spring), wherein the spring plates are arranged within the interior space in such a way that at least one pressure chamber is formed in the interior space, which is at least partially delimited by the spring plates, wherein the pressure chamber can be ventilated or vented and can be subjected to overpressure from a pressure medium (e.g., compressed air) that can be supplied to the housing, wherein the first spring plate is clamped between the first contact surface of the first housing part and the second contact surface of the first housing part in such a way that a first end of the first spring plate is engaged by the first engagement means of the first housing part and a second end of the first spring plate is engaged by the second engagement means of the first housing part;wherein the second spring plate is clamped between the first contact surface of the second housing part and the second contact surface of the second housing part in such a way that a first end of the second spring plate is engaged by the first latching means of the second housing part and a second end of the second spring plate is engaged by the second latching means of the second housing part; and wherein the spring plates are arranged relative to the at least one pressure chamber in such a way that by venting or venting the pressure chamber or subjecting the pressure chamber to overpressure, a bending of at least one of the spring plates (e.g. transverse bending; bending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spring plate;the longitudinal axis connects the two ends of each spring plate) is changeable and as a result the device changes between an open state in which the object is spaced from the clamping surfaces, and a closed state in which one or more of the clamping surfaces transmit a clamping and / or braking force to the object. For example, the device can change from the closed state to the open state or vice versa. In the open state of the device, the object is freely movable (e.g. freely rotatable about an axis of rotation or linearly movable along the axis), whereas in the closed state of the device the object is clamped and / or braked and is therefore not freely movable (e.g. not rotatable about the axis of rotation or not linearly movable along the axis).

[0011] The present invention is based on the inventors' finding that the axial positioning of the spring plates within the housing of the clamping and / or braking device is of crucial importance for the opening and closing function of the clamping and / or braking device. In particular, the inventors recognized that the axial positioning of the spring plates during assembly previously depended significantly on the axial press-in pressure and, therefore, the spring plates could assume slightly different axial positions within the housing. The inventors recognized that a well-defined and symmetrical positioning of the spring plates within the housing should be reliably achieved in order to reliably achieve the desired symmetrical opening and closing function of the clamping and / or braking device.Such a well-defined and symmetrical positioning of the spring plates within the housing has so far placed high demands on the axial pressing of the springs into the housing during assembly and has so far proven to be difficult and complex in practice.

[0012] Against this background, the inventors recognized that a housing part comprising a first latching means and a second latching means, each designed to latch a different end of a clamped spring plate, achieves a predetermined axial positioning of the spring plates within a housing of a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device. This positioning no longer depends significantly on the axial press-in force during assembly, but rather a repeatable, well-defined, and symmetrical positioning of the spring plates within the housing of the clamping and / or braking device is achieved. These latching means have also proven themselves in practice during assembly, as they actually simplify the assembly of the spring plates.In addition, the locking means provide further advantages of the type described below, such as improved sealing within the housing, so that the locking means have a variety of positive effects on the operation of the overall system of the clamping and / or braking device.

[0013] The first locking means preferably comprises a first projection and a first stop, each of which delimits the first contact surface such that the first locking means is designed to lock the first end of the spring plate between the first projection and the first stop in the region of the first contact surface. The second locking means may preferably comprise a second projection and a second stop, each of which delimits the second contact surface such that the second locking means is designed to lock the second end of the spring plate between the second projection and the second stop in the region of the second contact surface.This special implementation of the first and second locking means results in a particularly effective locking of the spring plates, but at the same time also facilitates the insertion of the spring plates into the housing parts and does not require any additional components and materials for the housing, which is advantageous for production and assembly.

[0014] Each of the projections can include a height transition at the junction of the projection with the associated or adjacent contact surface. Each of the projections can include a step or ramp as a height transition. The ramp can be an inclined plane, but can also have slopes of other shapes, such as a curve. Other designs of the projections are also conceivable.

[0015] Particularly preferably, each of the projections can protrude into the recess (11) by 0.025 mm to 0.15 mm, preferably 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm, particularly preferably by 0.1 mm or 0.05 mm relative to the respective contact surface in a radial direction of the annular recess. Such protrusion by the projections can be particularly advantageous for the reliable engagement of the spring plates with regard to the usual shortening of the spring during operation, on the one hand, and the easy insertion of the spring plates into the housing parts, on the other.

[0016] The annular recess can define an annular opening in the housing part, wherein the annular opening is formed between a first annular edge of the housing part and a second annular edge of the housing part. Preferably, the first projection can be arranged between the first annular edge and the first contact surface on an inner side of the housing part in the region of the recess and optionally extend from the first annular edge as far as the first contact surface. The height transition of the first projection can border the first contact surface. The height transition (e.g. the step or ramp) of the first projection can preferably be arranged on the inner side of the housing part in the region of the recess at a distance of 1 mm to 1.8 mm, preferably 1 mm to 1.5 mm, particularly preferably 1.2 mm or 1.1 mm from the first annular edge, and the first projection can extend across this distance.The first projection can extend continuously from the first annular edge to the height transition. The second projection can preferably be arranged between the second annular edge and the second contact surface on an inner side of the housing part in the region of the recess and optionally extend from the second annular edge to the second contact surface. The height transition of the second projection can border the second contact surface. The height transition (e.g. the step or ramp) of the second projection can preferably be arranged on the inner side of the housing part in the region of the recess at a distance of 1 mm to 1.8 mm, preferably 1 mm to 1.5 mm, particularly preferably 1.2 mm or 1.1 mm from the second annular edge, and the second projection can extend over this distance. The second projection can extend continuously from the second annular edge to the height transition.

[0017] Such an arrangement of the projections or steps or ramps can be particularly advantageous for the reliable positioning of the spring plates within the recess or the housing with regard to usual operating parameters of the clamping device on the one hand and the easy insertion of the spring plates into the housing parts on the other.

[0018] The distance between the first projection and the first stop and the distance between the second projection and the second stop can be 1 mm to 1.5 mm, 1.1 mm to 1.4 mm, preferably 1.2 mm, respectively, which is particularly adapted for effective engagement of springs with common thicknesses and common rubber coatings.

[0019] If this brief description of the invention describes features that are not listed in the patent claims, these features do not represent essential features in the sense that these features must necessarily be included in the patent claims to describe the invention, but these features are particularly prominent preferred implementations of the claimed invention, can be combined with any of the patent claims and can also be combined with each other as desired. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS

[0020] Figure 1A shows a schematic cross-section through an inwardly directed, passive pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in the closed state. Figure 1B shows a schematic cross-section through an outwardly directed, passive pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in the closed state. Figure 2Ashows a schematic cross-section through an inwardly directed, passive pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in the open state. Figure 2B shows a schematic cross section through an outwardly directed, passive pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in the open state. Figure 3A shows a schematic cross-section through an inwardly directed, active pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in the open state. Figure 3B shows a schematic cross section through an outwardly directed, active pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in the open state. Figure 4A shows a schematic cross-section through an inwardly directed, active pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in the closed state. Figure 4Bshows a schematic cross-section through an outwardly directed, active pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in the closed state. Figure 5A shows a cross-section through a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device according to the invention in three-dimensional representation. Figures 5B to 5D show a variant of one from Figure 5A removed housing part according to the state of the art. Figures 6A to 6B In the upper part of the respective figure, the variants of the housing part according to the state of the art as shown in the Figures 5B to 5D shown. Figures 6A to 6B show in the lower part of the respective figure a variant according to the invention of a Figure 5A removed housing part.

[0021] Components shown in several figures have the same reference symbols. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The invention relates to a housing part for a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device and a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device with a housing part according to the invention.

[0023] Whenever this document refers to the device "clamp" or "clamping device", the "clamping force" or the process of "clamping", then the device of the "brake" or "braking device" or the "braking force" or the process of "braking" are equally included.

[0024] The Figures 1A to 5A show schematic cross sections through such a pneumatic clamping device 10 according to the invention with a housing 3, which comprises two housing parts 3a, 3b according to the invention, and with a spring 1 arranged in the housing 3, which comprises at least two annular spring plates 1a, 1b.

[0025] The clamping device 10 according to the invention comprises the following: a housing 3 comprising first and second housing parts 3a, 3b according to the invention, as described further below in connection with Figures 6A and 6Bdescribed, wherein the two housing parts 3a, 3b are arranged relative to one another and fastened to one another in such a way that recesses of the first and second housing parts 3a, 3b together form an interior space 13 within the housing 3; a spring 1 arranged in the interior space 13 comprising a first annular spring plate 1a and a second annular spring plate 1b, wherein the spring plates 1a, 1b are arranged within the interior space 13 in such a way that at least one pressure chamber 2, 4 is formed in the interior space 13, which is at least partially delimited by the spring plates 1a, 1b, wherein the pressure chamber 2, 4 can be vented or vented (by means of an opening I, II and optionally a connection to a compressed air pump 6) and can be subjected to overpressure of a pressure medium that can be supplied to the housing 3, wherein the first spring plate 1a is clamped between the first contact surface 101 of the first housing part 3a and the second contact surface 102 of the first housing part 3a,that a first end of the first spring plate 1a is engaged by the first engagement means 110 of the first housing part 3a and a second end of the first spring plate 1a is engaged by the second engagement means 120 of the first housing part 3a; wherein the second spring plate 1b is clamped between the first contact surface 101 of the second housing part 3b and the second contact surface 102 of the second housing part 3b in such a way that a first end of the second spring plate 1b is engaged by the first latching means 110 of the second housing part 3b and a second end of the second spring plate 1b is engaged by the second latching means 120 of the second housing part 3b, and wherein the spring plates 1a, 1b are arranged relative to the at least one pressure chamber 2, 4 in such a way that by venting or venting the pressure chamber 2, 4 or applying excess pressure to the pressure chamber 2, 4, a bending of at least one of the spring plates 1a,1b is variable, and thereby the device 10 switches between an open state, in which the object 5 is not touched by one or any of the clamping surfaces 7 but is spaced from the clamping surfaces 7, and a closed state, in which one or more of the clamping surfaces 7 transmit a clamping and / or braking force to the object 5. For example, the device 10 can switch from the closed state to the open state or vice versa.

[0026] The Figures 1A, 1B , 4A and 4B Each of these clamping devices 10 shows a closed state, with the clamping surface 7 of the clamping element 8 touching the periphery of the object 5. The clamping element 8 is also referred to as a clamping lip. The clamping element 8 can be formed integrally with the remaining parts of the housing part 3a, 3b or can be a structurally separate component of the housing part 3a, 3b.

[0027] The clamping force or effect of the clamping surface 7 on the object 5 to be clamped takes place in a clamping plane which is spanned by two vectors, each of which forms a radius of the annular spring plates 1a, 1b or annular recess 11 (cf. Fig. 5A ). The axis 9 can be referred to as the main axis of the clamping device 10, which runs perpendicular to the clamping plane. The clamping device 10 can be designed rotationally symmetrical about this main axis 9. The main axis 9 can run approximately or exactly centrally through an opening of the clamping device 10 (opening 14 in Fig. 5B ). In the Figures 1A , 4A the object 5 to be clamped, for example a rotatable shaft of a machine or a table, is placed within the opening 14 and the clamping force of the clamping device is therefore directed radially inwards towards the main axis 9 (perpendicular to the main axis 9) within the clamping plane. Figures 1B , 4Bthe object 5 to be clamped is placed outside the clamping device 10 and the clamping force of the clamping device is therefore directed radially outwards away from the main axis 9 (perpendicular to the main axis 9) within the clamping plane.

[0028] In Fig. 1A , 2A , 3A , 4A The clamping element 8 is located between spring 1 and opening 14 or main axis 9. In Fig. 1B , 2B , 3B , 4B In contrast, the object 5 to be clamped at least partially surrounds the clamping device 10, so that the clamping element 8 is located between the object 5 and the opening 14 or main axis 9. In Fig. 1B , 2B , 3B , 4B Instead of the object 5 to be clamped, a component which at least partially fills the opening 14 and through which the main axis 9 extends can be introduced into the opening 14.

[0029] In Figures 1A to 5A The spring 1 is between two contact surfaces (101 and 102 in Fig. 5C and 5D ) is clamped within the housing 3 of the clamping devices 10 and extends between the two contact surfaces. In the pressure-free initial state of the device 10 in the Figures 1A to 2Bthe spring 1 can be slightly bent in order to be firmly fixed in the housing 3 in this state and the same can apply to any other state of the device 10, whereby the degree of bending of the spring 1 depends on the state of the device 10. If the device 10 is in a state in which the spring 1 is bent (e.g. more bent than in the pressure-free initial state, such as in the open state), venting an inner pressure chamber 2 of the spring 1 and ventilating an outer pressure chamber 4 can lead to at least partial relaxation of the spring 1 while the spring 1 presses against the radial contact surfaces, the distance between which increases slightly, so that the housing 3 is elastically deformed in the region of the clamping element 8 or the clamping surface 7 and the clamping surface 7 therefore touches the object 5 and is pressed against the object 5 with a (predefined) clamping force in order to clamp the object 5.The object 5 is clamped and the clamping device 10 is in the closed state, as in . Figures 1A and 1B shown. In the closed state of the device 10, the spring 1 can still be slightly bent even after partial relaxation in order to be firmly fixed in the housing 3 in this state.

[0030] The clamping element 8 can be an elastic element, such as a spring fork, which, in the pressure-free initial state of the device 10, is brought from an initial position in which the elastic element is relaxed into a tensioned position by the spring force of the (slightly) bent spring 1, for example by bending the spring fork 8, until an equilibrium is established in the pressure-free initial state between a restoring force of the elastic element 8 and the spring force of the spring 1. In this equilibrium, the clamping surface 7 can press against the object 5.

[0031] By additionally applying compressed air to the outer pressure chamber 4 in the closed state (for example, 4 bar or 6 bar), there is the option of increasing the clamping force by a predetermined value. This is described in the Figures 1A, 1B indicated by the optional additional compressed air pump (booster) 6 and the hatching (compressed air) in the outer pressure chamber 4. The outer pressure chamber 4 can be connected via an opening in the housing 3 to an air connection 11 (also referred to as "close") to which the compressed air pump 6 can be connected.

[0032] This makes it possible, for example, to control the device 10 in such a way that a change occurs between a braked movement of the acted-upon object 5 (in the pressureless state) and a complete clamping of the object (with sufficient pressure applied).

[0033] Even if two pressure chambers 2, 4 are shown and described here as examples, the clamping device 10 can also be operated with a single pressure chamber, which can be, for example, the inner pressure chamber 2 or the outer pressure chamber 4.

[0034] Figures 2A and 2B show the clamping devices 10 from the Figures 1A and 1B in each case in the open state in which the clamping surface 7 does not touch the circumference of the object 5 or is spaced from the circumference of the object 5. The inner pressure chamber 2 can be connected via an opening in the housing 3 to an air connection I (also referred to as "Open"), to which a compressed air pump 6 can be connected.

[0035] By applying compressed air (for example 4 bar or 6 bar) to the inner pressure chamber 2 by the compressed air pump 6 and venting the outer pressure chamber 4, the spring 1 is, compared to the closed state of Fig. 1A, 1B, more strongly (convexly) bent or tensioned, resulting in a radial shortening of spring 1 or the distance between the two contact surfaces. The clamping surface 7 lifts off the object 5 to release the clamping. The object 5 is freely movable (e.g., rotatable about axis 9 or linearly movable along axis 9), and the clamping device 10 is opened.

[0036] The device 10 can be switched back and forth between the closed state and the open state.

[0037] Such pneumatic clamps 10 have a number of advantages over hydraulic clamps.

[0038] By using the combination of elastic components, here a spring 1 with spring plates 1a, 1b, and compressed air, for example, very short reaction times are achieved when switching between the open and closed state and also a secure clamping of the object 5 is ensured. The spring 1 can preferably be designed in the shape of a plate, as in Fig. 5 shown in more detail, wherein two superimposed spring plates 1a, 1b form the spring 1 and the inner pressure chamber 2 of the spring 1 between the plates 1a, 1b. The plates 1a, 1b can also be annular, as in Fig. 5shown, and can optionally additionally have radial slots so that a change in the inner diameter is possible with particularly low forces. The spring plates 1a, 1b can be coated with rubber, at least in the region of the slots, in order to create the tightness required for the compressed air. The spring plates 1a, 1b can also be completely covered with rubber. The spring plates 1a, 1b are generally designed to be pressure-resistant and elastically bendable and are arranged in the housing 3 of the clamping device 10 in such a way that the inner pressure chamber 2 is formed between the spring plates 1a, 1b within the spring 1 and the outer pressure chamber 4 is formed between each spring plate 1a, 1b and the housing 3 or the housing parts 3a, 3b of the clamping device 10. Figure 5 shows a three-dimensional view of a clamping device 10 similar to Figures 1A and 2A .

[0039] By venting or applying compressed air to the outer pressure chamber 4 and venting the inner pressure chamber 2, as in Fig. 1A As shown, the spring 1 is at least partially relaxed and exerts a clamping force on the object 5 to be clamped, in particular on the circumference of a shaft 5. As a result, in the event of a power or pressure failure, the object 5 is clamped or the shaft 5 is immediately brought to a standstill, thus providing a safety clamp. Depending on their size, such pneumatic clamps 10 can achieve holding torques of several 100 Nm and up to several 1000 Nm, which can be increased by additionally pressurizing the outer pressure chamber 4 with compressed air, as shown in Fig. 1Aby a pressure pump 6 (booster). Here, compressed air of a few bar (for example, 4 bar or 6 bar) is sufficient to provide several times the holding torque achieved without a booster. This utilizes the fact that slight transverse bending of the plates 1a, 1b (perpendicular to their longitudinal axis) when switching between the open and closed state of the clamp 10 generates large spring forces, which can be used to clamp or release preloaded clamping devices 10. This enables secure clamping and release even of rapidly rotating machine shafts 5.

[0040] Pneumatic clamps also require lower costs and assembly effort than hydraulic clamps, and the use of compressed air eliminates any additional effort required to maintain cleanliness within the system. Such pneumatic clamps also allow for compact dimensions, as minimal transverse deflection and minimal (changes in) longitudinal expansion of the spring, and thus small pressure chamber volumes, are sufficient to generate the required clamping forces.

[0041] In pneumatic clamps, a distinction is made between passive clamping devices 10, as in Fig. 1A to 2B shown, and active clamping devices 10, as in Fig. 3A to 4B shown.

[0042] In the initial, pressureless state, spring 1 can be bent to varying degrees (transversely) and thus radially shortened to varying degrees. The interior of housing 3 can be adapted to the bending of spring plates 1a, 1b or define it. A corresponding stop surface for spring plates 1a, 1b can be formed, for example, by an inner housing wall. The inner housing wall can be designed to complement (e.g., concave) a bending (e.g., convex) of spring plates 1a, 1b.

[0043] In passive clamping devices 10, the spring 1 is generally slightly elastically bent (e.g. convex) or pre-tensioned in the pressure-free initial state and the clamping devices 10 can be closed ( Fig. 1A, 1B ). The clamping device 10 is only opened by the application of force from the inside by applying compressed air to the inner pressure chamber 2 ( Fig. 2A, 2B). In the initial pressure-free state, the spring 1 is usually slightly bent, so that in the event of a clamping action or in the event of a pressure drop, the spring force generated by the energy stored in the spring 1 is transferred to the object 5 to be clamped as a clamping force in order to clamp the object 5.

[0044] With active clamping devices 10, in the pressureless initial state ( Fig. 3A, 3B ) the spring 1 is curved more strongly, in particular more convexly, transversely outward than in passive clamping devices, so that the distance between the two radial contact surfaces is shortened and the clamping device 10 is opened. No clamping force is exerted on the object 5 via the clamping surface 7. The object is free because the clamping surface 7 does not touch the object 5 or is spaced from the object 5.

[0045] Due to plastic deformation of the spring plates 1a, 1b, the spring 1, with the same housing 3, can be more transversely curved outwards in the depressurized initial state and thus more radially shortened than with passive clamping devices. This smaller radial expansion of the spring plates 1a, 1b in the depressurized initial state can lead to an open state of the clamping device 10 in the depressurized initial state. Even with plastic deformation, the spring plates 1a, 1b are elastically bent and press against the contact surfaces so that the spring is fixed in the housing. The interior of the housing or the recesses can absorb the greater curvature caused by plastic deformation in the initial state.

[0046] The clamping force must now be actively induced from the outside, as in Fig. 4A and 4Bshown to transfer the clamp into the closed state. Here, compressed air is introduced into the external pressure chamber 4 by a compressed air pump 6, thus pressurizing the spring 1 from the outside in such a way that the spring 1 is actively relaxed, the curvature of the spring 1 is reduced, the distance between the two contact surfaces increases, and the housing 3 is elastically deformed in the region of the clamping element 8 or the clamping surface 7, so that the clamping surface 7 touches the object 5 and exerts a clamping force on the object 5, thereby clamping the object 5. The active clamping device 10 is then in the closed state.

[0047] Depending on the area of ​​application and the prescribed safety regulations, an active or passive clamping system 10 is used. If safety clamping is primarily desired, a passive clamping device is generally used. With such pneumatic passive clamping systems, it is possible to generate a predetermined clamping force even in a depressurized state when the device is appropriately mounted in an overall device, which clamping force is applied to the object 5 to be clamped. By applying overpressure or negative pressure, the forces transmitted to this object can be increased, reduced, or completely eliminated, which opens up a wide variety of applications. If, on the other hand, the clamping device is primarily intended to carry out a deliberate work process, such as a tool change, an active clamping device is generally used.

[0048] As in Figure 5AAs shown, the housing 3 of the clamping devices 10 according to the invention comprises two housing parts 3a, 3b according to the invention, which are fastened to one another by fastening means, such as screws, and are mounted such that, in the mounted state, the two housing parts 3a, 3b define an interior space 13 between the housing parts 3a, 3b within the housing 3, in which the spring 1 together with its annular spring plates 1a, 1b are arranged. The housing parts 3a, 3b each define a recess 11, which is also annular and which serves to receive the annular spring plates 1a, 1b, as shown in Figures 5A, 5B shown. At least a part of the first contact surface 101 can run (substantially) perpendicular to the radial direction R of the annular recess 11 and / or a part of the second contact surface 102 can run (substantially perpendicular) to the radial direction R of the annular recess 11.

[0049] Through the center of the housing 3 extends an opening 14 (Fig. 5B) into which the object 5 to be clamped, such as a shaft, can be inserted. The housing can extend up to 360° around this opening and at least partially encloses the object 5 in at least one plane, which is referred to as the clamping plane. The central main axis 9 of the clamping devices runs centrally through the opening 14 and perpendicular to the clamping plane. In clamping devices according to Fig. 1A , 2A , 3A , 4A , 5A the main axis 9 runs centrally through the shaft along its longitudinal axis.

[0050] Along the circumference of the housing 3 or the opening 14 is one or more of the clamping surfaces 7 which, in the event of elastic deformation of the housing 3 in the region of the clamping element 8 or the clamping surface 7, exert the clamping force on the outer circumference of the object 5 and can thereby clamp the object 5. For effective opening and closing of the clamping device 10 with respect to the object 5 to be clamped, without risk of damage to the object 5, a symmetrical distribution of the clamping force along the clamping surface 7 or along the circumference of the object 5 is desirable. A non-symmetrical distribution of the clamping force can lead to damage to the object 5. Preferably, one or both contact surfaces 101, 102 are circular within the clamping plane. Preferably, the clamping surface 7 is circular within the clamping plane. The clamping element 8 can be annular.All ring-shaped or circular components described herein can, individually or in combination, have as their center point the intersection point of the main axis 9 with the clamping plane (e.g. center point of the opening 14).

[0051] Figure 5B shows one of the two housing parts 3a (here the upper housing part 3a from Fig. 5A ), as well as one of the two spring plates 1a, 1b of the spring 1. The illustrated spring plate 1a of the spring 1 extends from a first contact surface 101 within the housing part 3a to a second contact surface 102 within the housing part 3a and can touch it. The first contact surface 101 is arranged radially further outward from the center of the opening 14 than the second contact surface 102.

[0052] Figure 5C shows the section of the Figure 5B illustrated housing part 3a in which the upper plate 1a of the spring 1 meets the first contact surface 101 and is preferably in contact with it. Figure 5D shows the section of the Figure 5B The housing part 3a shown in FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 1, in which the upper plate 1a of the spring 1 abuts the second contact surface 102 and is preferably in contact with it. However, it is also possible for one or more additional components to be located radially between the spring plate 1a and one or more of the contact surfaces 101, 102, via which the spring plate 1a exerts its spring force on the contact surfaces 101, 102.

[0053] The Figures 5B to 5D The housing part 3a shown has the shape used in the prior art. As shown in Figures 5B, 5DAs can be seen, the inner sides of the housing part 3a, between which the spring plate 1a is clamped in the recess, are straight or flat. Each of the plates of the spring 1 is inserted in the direction of the main axis 9 of the clamping devices 10 through the opening 12 into the recess 11 of the respective housing part during assembly along straight or flat inner surfaces of the housing part 3a until the respective plate abuts a stop 112, 122 at the end of each of the two contact surfaces 101, 102 and therefore cannot be inserted any further into the recess 11. Since the expansion of the spring plate 1a in the clamping plane or in the radial direction of the annular recess is greater than the expansion of the interior defined by the housing part, the plate 1a is bent or prestressed in the pressure-free initial state.

[0054] However, it has been shown that the plates 1a, 1b of the spring 1 are positioned during assembly depending on the axial press-in force and are therefore not always axially positioned the same in the housing parts 3a, 3b. The spring plates 1a, 1b can tilt, be inserted into the housing parts at different depths, or bend to different degrees. Due to their crucial importance for the opening and closing function of the clamping devices 10, the variation in the positioning of the plates 1a, 1b within the housing parts results in a variation in these functions, in particular an asymmetry in the distribution of the clamping force along the clamping surface or the circumference of the opening within the clamping plane, which is detrimental to an effective and sustainable clamping effect and an undamaged object.

[0055] In the lower drawings of the Figures 6A and 6BInventive housing parts 3a, 3b are compared to the conventional housing parts according to Figures 5C, 5D The latter is shown again in the upper drawings of the Figures 6A and 6B are shown for comparison.

[0056] The housing part 3a, 3b according to the invention comprises: an annular recess 11 for clamping an annular spring plate 1a, 1b between a first contact surface 101 of the housing part 3a, 3b defined by the recess 11 and a second contact surface 102 of the housing part 3a, 3b defined by the recess 11; a clamping element 8 with a clamping surface 7, which is designed, when the spring plate 1a, 1b is clamped in the recess 11 between the first contact surface 101 and the second contact surface 102 in such a way that a first end of the spring plate 1a, 1b is supported on the first contact surface 101, the spring plate 1a, 1b extends from the first contact surface 101 to the second contact surface 102, and a second end of the spring plate 1a, 1b presses on the second contact surface 102, to transmit a clamping and / or braking force to an object 5 to be clamped and / or braked;wherein the housing part 3a, 3b comprises a first latching means 110 and a second latching means 120, wherein, when the spring plate 1a, 1b is clamped in the recess 11 between the first contact surface 101 and the second contact surface 102, the first latching means 110 is designed to latch the first end of the spring plate 1a, 1b onto the first contact surface 101 and the second latching means 120 is designed to latch the second end of the spring plate 1a, 1b onto the second contact surface 102;

[0057] As shown in the drawing below by Figure 6AAs shown, according to the invention and preferably, a projection 111 is provided as part of the first latching means, which delimits the first contact surface 101. When inserting the plate 1a along a direction parallel to the main axis 9 into the housing part 3a, the first end of the spring plate 1a must overcome this projection 111, which, however, results in the plate 1a being arranged in a defined manner between the stop 112 and the projection 111 in the direction of the main axis 9 after overcoming this projection 111. The plate 1a latches between the stop 112 and the projection 111 in the region of the first contact surface 101 and can preferably touch it there. The projection 111 can be step-shaped or ramp-shaped or have another shape that provides this function of the projection. The same applies analogously to the Figure 6Billustrated second contact surface 102 according to the invention, which is also preferably delimited by a projection 121, which the second end of the spring plate 1a must overcome during insertion along a direction parallel to the main axis 9, before the plate 1a is positioned in a defined manner between the stop 122 and the projection 121 and engages there in the region of the second contact surface 102. The second end of the spring plate 1a can preferably touch the second contact surface 102 during engagement. The projection 121 can be step-shaped or ramp-shaped or have another shape that provides this function of the projection 121.

[0058] As can be seen from the Figures 1A to 6B As can be seen, the first projection 111 and the first stop are further away from the object 5 to be clamped than the second projection 121 and the second stop 122, regardless of whether the clamping force is directed inwards ( Fig. 1A , 2A ) or outwards ( Fig. 1B , 2B ). The first projection 111 and the first stop 112 can be arranged opposite the clamping element 8 in the housing part 3a, 3b, while the second projection 121 and the second stop 122 are arranged in the region of the clamping element 8 or can be part of the clamping element 8. The first stop 112 can have a longer extension in the radial direction R of the annular recess 11 than the first projection 111 ( Fig. 6A , 5B ). The first projection 111 can protrude or protrude by 0.025 mm to 0.15 mm, preferably 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm, particularly preferably by 0.1 mm, in a radial direction R of the annular recess 11 from or with respect to the first contact surface 101 (e.g., into the recess 11).

[0059] The second stop 122 may have a longer extension in the radial direction R of the annular recess 11 than the second projection 121 ( Fig. 6B , 5B). The second projection 121 can protrude or protrude by 0.025 mm to 0.15 mm, preferably 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm, particularly preferably by 0.05 mm, in a radial direction R of the annular recess 11 from or with respect to the second contact surface 102 (e.g., into the recess 11).

[0060] The annular recess 11 can define an annular opening 12 in the housing part 3a, 3b (in the clamping plane), wherein the annular opening 12 is formed between a first annular edge 12a of the housing part and a second annular edge 12b of the housing part, and wherein the annular opening 12 serves to insert the spring plate 1a into the recess 11. The first projection 111 can be arranged between the first annular edge 12a and the first contact surface 101 on an inner side of the housing part 3a in the region of the recess 11 and protrude into the recess 11. The second projection 121 can be arranged between the second annular edge 12b and the second contact surface 102 on an inner side of the housing part in the region of the recess 11 and protrude into the recess 11 ( Fig. 6A , 6B ).

[0061] Projection 111 and stop 112 can define a groove in the housing part 3a into which the first end of the spring plate 1a can engage, wherein the first contact surface 101 can form part of the groove. Projection 121 and stop 122 can define a groove in the housing part 3a into which the second end of the spring plate 1a can engage, wherein the second contact surface 102 can form part of the groove.

[0062] The distance between the step or ramp of the first projection 111 and the first edge 12a can be 1 mm to 1.8 mm, 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably 1.2 mm or 1.1 mm. The distance between the step or ramp of the second projection 121 and the second edge 12b can be 1 mm to 1.8 mm, 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably 1.2 mm or 1.1 mm.

[0063] The distance between the first projection 111 and the first stop 112 and the distance between the second projection 121 and the second stop 122 can be 1 mm to 1.5 mm, 1.1 mm to 1.4 mm, preferably 1.2 mm.

[0064] By creating the locking means 110, 120, preferably by means of projections 111, 121, possibly in combination with the optional stops 112, 122, in the areas of the two contact surfaces 101, 102, a (particularly axial) forced position is created for the spring plate 1a, 1b. This forced positioning ensures that the spring plate 1a, 1b is stably mounted, particularly positioned axially in a defined manner in the direction parallel to the main axis 9 of the clamping device 10, and the position of the spring plate 1a, 1b is therefore no longer significantly dependent on the axial press-in force within the housing parts 3a, 3b. Due to the (axially) clearly defined position of each of the spring plates 1a, 1b of the spring 1, the curvature of the spring plates 1a, 1b is also well-defined and configured as desired in the depressurized state.

[0065] The locking means 110, 120 allow the two spring plates 1a, 1b in the clamping device 10 to be arranged at a well-defined, uniform distance from one another within the housing 3. The spring plates 1a, 1b can be positioned with their longitudinal axes parallel to the clamping plane by the locking means 110, 120. The symmetrical functional design achieved by the locking means 110, 120 generates symmetrical tensions in the spring 1 over the entire circumference of the opening 14, thus leading to a very effective clamping force distribution evenly around the object 5 in the clamping plane.

[0066] The opening and closing functions can thus be performed symmetrically and reliably across the circumference of the opening 14 thanks to the locking means 110, 120. Possible unwanted radial or axial movements of the housing 3 thus do not lead to unwanted axial or radial geometric displacements on the clamping surface 7.

[0067] The inventors have further discovered that these locking means 110, 120, in particular the projections 111, 121, not only achieve an axially well-defined and symmetrical positioning of the plates 1a, 1b of the spring 1 within the housing, but also an improved sealing effect between the spring plates 1a, 1b and between each of the two housing parts 3a, 3b with the associated plate 1a, 1b of the spring 1. These improved sealing effects are particularly advantageous when additionally applying compressed air to the inner and outer pressure chambers 2, 4 to transfer the clamping devices into one of the two described states. The locking means 110, 120, in particular the projections 111, 121, bring about an improved contact between the rubber coatings of the plates 1a, 1b and the rubber coating of each plate 1a, 1b with the respective housing part 3a, 3b with regard to the sealing effect.

[0068] The inventors have identified further additional advantages through the creation of the locking means 110, 120, in particular the projections 111, 121. Thus, the defined position of the rubberized spring plates 1a, 1b allows for the installation of targeted stroke limitations of the plates by adjusting the rubber thickness around the spring plates as protection against misuse (e.g., zero crossing) with excessively high operating pressure (especially in boosters). This also reduces the air requirement (volume) of compressed air and, as a result, increases the opening and closing speeds of the clamping device 10.

[0069] The description and figures describe preferred embodiments of the invention claimed by the following claims. The optional features disclosed in the above description, claims, and drawings can be used both individually and in any combination to implement the invention claimed here according to the appended claims in its various forms.

Claims

1. A housing part (3a, 3b) for a pneumatic clamping and / or braking device (10), the housing part (3a, 3b) comprising: an annular recess (11) for clamping an annular spring plate (1a, 1b) between a first contact surface (101) of the housing part (3a, 3b) defined by the recess (11) and a second contact surface (102) of the housing part (3a, 3b) defined by the recess (11); a clamping element (8) having a clamping surface (7) which is designed, when the spring plate (1a, 1b) is clamped in the recess (11) between the first contact surface (101) and the second contact surface (102) in such a way that a first end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) is supported on the first contact surface (101), the spring plate (1a, 1b) extends from the first contact surface (101) to the second contact surface (102), and a second end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) presses on the second contact surface (102), to transmit a clamping and / or braking force to an object (5) to be clamped and / or braked; characterised in that the housing part (3a, 3b) comprises a first latching means (110) and a second latching means (120), wherein, when the spring plate (1a, 1b) is clamped in the recess (11) between the first contact surface (101) and the second contact surface (102), the first latching means (110) is designed to latch the first end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) on the first contact surface (101) and the second latching means (120) is designed to latch the second end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) on the second contact surface (102).

2. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to claim 1, characterised in that the first latching means (110) is designed, in particular during operation of the clamping and / or braking device (10), to hold the first end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) in a predefined position with respect to the first contact surface (101) and / or in that the second latching means (120) is designed, in particular during operation of the clamping and / or braking device (10), to hold the second end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) in a predefined position with respect to the second contact surface (102).

3. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the housing part (3a, 3b) is designed in such a way that, when the second end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) presses on the second contact surface (102), the housing part (3a, 3b) deforms elastically in the region of the clamping element and thereby the clamping surface (7) transmits the clamping and / or braking force to the object (5) to be clamped and / or braked.

4. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first latching means (110) comprises a first projection (111) and a first stop (112), which each delimit the first contact surface (101) in such a way that the first latching means (110) is designed to latch the first end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) between the first projection (111) and the first stop (112) in the region of the first contact surface (101).

5. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the second latching means (120) comprises a second projection (121) and a second stop (122), which each delimit the second contact surface (102) in such a way that the second latching means (120) is designed to latch the second end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) between the second projection (121) and the second stop (122) in the region of the second contact surface (102).

6. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 5, characterised in that the first projection (111) comprises a step or ramp and / or in that the second projection (121) comprises a step or ramp.

7. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 6, characterised in that the first projection (111) and the first stop (112) are arranged and dimensioned in the region of the recess (11) in such a way that, when the spring plate (1a, 1b) is introduced from the outside into the recess (11) and after the first end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) has passed the first projection (111), the first stop (112) forms an obstacle to a deeper introduction of the first end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) into the recess (11).

8. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 7, characterised in that the second projection (121) and the second stop (122) are arranged and dimensioned in the region of the recess (11) in such a way that, when the spring plate (1a, 1b) is introduced from the outside into the recess (11) and after the second end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) has passed the second projection (121), the second stop (122) forms an obstacle to a deeper introduction of the second end of the spring plate (1a, 1b) into the recess (11).

9. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 8, characterised in that the first stop (112) has a longer extent in the radial direction (R) of the annular recess (11) than the first projection (111) and / or in that the second stop (122) has a longer extent in the radial direction (R) of the annular recess (11) than the second projection (121).

10. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 9, characterised in that the first projection (111) projects into the recess (11) by 0.025 mm to 0.15 mm, preferably 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm, particularly preferably by approximately 0.1 mm, with respect to the first contact surface (101) in a radial direction (R) of the annular recess (11) and / or the second projection (121) projects into the recess (11) by 0.025 mm to 0.15 mm, preferably 0.05 mm to 0.1 mm, particularly preferably by approximately 0.05 mm, with respect to the second contact surface (101) in a radial direction (R) of the annular recess (11).

11. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the annular recess (11) defines an annular opening (12) in the housing part (3a, 3b), wherein the annular opening (12) is formed between a first annular edge (12a) of the housing part and a second annular edge (12b) of the housing part.

12. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to claim 11, characterised in that the first projection (111) is arranged between the first annular edge (12a) and the first contact surface (101) on an inner side of the housing part (3a, 3b) in the region of the recess (11), wherein the first projection (111) is preferably arranged at a distance of 1 mm to 1.8 mm, preferably 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm, particularly preferably approximately 1.2 mm, from the first annular edge (12a) on the inner side of the housing part (3a, 3b) in the region of the recess (11).

13. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to claim 11 or 12, characterised in that the second projection (121) is arranged between the second annular edge (12b) and the second contact surface (102) on an inner side of the housing part (3a, 3b) in the region of the recess (11), wherein the second projection (121) is preferably arranged at a distance of 1 mm to 1.8 mm, preferably 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm, particularly preferably approximately 1.2 mm, from the second annular edge (12b) on the inner side of the housing part (3a, 3b) in the region of the recess (11).

14. The housing part (3a, 3b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second contact surface (102) and the clamping surface (7) are arranged on mutually opposite side surfaces of the clamping element (8).

15. A clamping and / or braking device (10) for clamping and / or braking an object (5) to be clamped and / or braked, comprising: a housing (3) comprising a first housing part (3a) according to any one of the preceding claims and a second housing part (3b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two housing parts (3a, 3b) are arranged and fastened with respect to one another such that the recesses (11) of the first and second housing parts (3a, 3b) together form an inner space (13) within the housing (3); a spring (1) arranged in the inner space (13), comprising a first annular spring plate (1a) and a second annular spring plate (1b), wherein the spring plates (1a, 1b) are arranged within the inner space (13) such that at least one pressure space (2, 4) is formed in the inner space (13), which pressure space is at least partially delimited by the spring plates (1a, 1b), wherein the pressure space (2, 4) is aeratable or deaeratable and can be acted on by positive pressure of a pressure medium which is suppliable to the housing (3), wherein the first spring plate (1a) is clamped between the first contact surface (101) of the first housing part (3a) and the second contact surface (102) of the first housing part (3a) such that a first end of the first spring plate (1a) is latched by the first latching means (110) of the first housing part (3a) and a second end of the first spring plate (1a) is latched by the second latching means (120) of the first housing part (3a); wherein the second spring plate (1b) is clamped between the first contact surface (101) of the second housing part (3b) and the second contact surface (102) of the second housing part (3b) such that a first end of the second spring plate (1b) is latched by the first latching means (110) of the second housing part (3b) and a second end of the second spring plate (1b) is latched by the second latching means (120) of the second housing part (3b); and wherein the spring plates (1a, 1b) are arranged relative to the at least one pressure space (2, 4) such that by aerating or deaerating the pressure space (2, 4) or acting on the pressure space (2, 4) with positive pressure, a bending of at least one of the spring plates (1a, 1b) is changeable and thereby the device (10) changes between an open state, in which the object (5) is spaced apart from the clamping surfaces (7), and a closed state, in which one or more of the clamping surfaces (7) transmit a clamping and / or braking force to the object (5).

16. The clamping and / or braking device (10) according to claim 15, wherein the at least one pressure space comprises a first pressure space (4) which is arranged outside the spring (1) between at least one of the spring plates (1a, 1b) and the housing (3).

17. The clamping and / or braking device (10) according to claim 16, wherein the first spring plate (1a) is designed, by aerating the first pressure space (4) or by acting on the first pressure space (4) with positive pressure, to reduce its bending in order, when the first end of the first spring plate (1a) is supported on the first contact surface (101) of the first housing part (3a), to press with the second end of the first spring plate (1a) onto the second contact surface (102) of the first housing part (3a) such that thereby a transmission of a clamping and / or braking force from the clamping surface (7) of the clamping element (8) of the first housing part (3a) to the object (5) to be clamped and / or braked is effected and the device (10) changes from the open state to the closed state.

18. The clamping and / or braking device (10) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the second spring plate (1b) is designed, by aerating the first pressure space (4) or by acting on the first pressure space (2, 4) with positive pressure, to reduce its bending in order, when the first end of the second spring plate (1b) is supported on the first contact surface (101) of the second housing part (3b), to press with the second end of the second spring plate (1b) onto the second contact surface (102) of the second housing part (3a) such that thereby a transmission of a clamping and / or braking force from the clamping surface (7) of the clamping element (8) of the second housing part (3a) to the object (5) to be clamped and / or braked is effected and the device (10) changes from the open state to the closed state.

19. The clamping and / or braking device (10) according to claim 16, 17 or 18, wherein the device (10) is designed such that by aerating the first pressure space (4) or by acting on the first pressure space (4) with positive pressure, the first contact surface (101) and the second contact surface (102) of at least one of the two housing parts (3a, 3b) move away from one another and / or the bending of at least one of the spring plates (1a, 1b) is reduced, and thereby the device (10) changes from the open state to the closed state.

20. The clamping and / or braking device (10) according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the at least one pressure space comprises a second pressure space (2), wherein the second pressure space (2) is arranged within the spring (1) between the two spring plates (1a, 1b), preferably wherein the device (10) is designed such that by aerating the second pressure space (2) or by acting on the second pressure space (2) with positive pressure, the first contact surface (101) and the second contact surface (102) of at least one of the two housing parts (3a, 3b) move towards one another and / or the bending of at least one of the spring plates (1a, 1b) is increased, and thereby the device (10) changes from the closed state to the open state.