Quick-release device, sensor arrangement with a quick-release device, and use of a quick-release device

Description

Background of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a quick-release clamping device for attaching at least one rail monitoring element to a rail, comprising two clamping units. Each clamping unit has two clamping brackets and a clamping element. The two clamping brackets can be connected at a first end by the clamping element along a clamping axis such that, when attached to the rail, the clamping element engages the rail foot. At a second end, each clamping bracket has a clamping area designed for frictional engagement with a rail neck and / or the rail monitoring element. The invention further relates to a sensor arrangement comprising the quick-release clamping device and to the use of the quick-release clamping device.

[0002] Quick-release clamps are used, for example, in railway systems for the damage-free attachment of track monitoring elements to the rail. The track monitoring element is clamped to the rail by the quick-release clamp. This eliminates the need to drill into the rail to create a screw fastening. The attachment of the track monitoring element by the quick-release clamp can be permanent, i.e., for the entire service life of the monitoring element, or only temporary, e.g., until an adhesive between the rail and the monitoring element has cured.

[0003] From

[01] a fastening device and a method for attaching at least one sensor to a railway track are known. The fastening device has two clamping brackets and two crossbeam elements connecting the clamping brackets. The clamping brackets are foldably arranged on the crossbeam elements so that the fastening device can be slid under a rail when the clamping brackets are folded in. The clamping brackets can then be unfolded to attach the sensor to the rail.

[0004] From

[02] a fastening device for attaching a sensor element to a rail is known, wherein the fastening device has clamping sections with clamping jaws which are rigidly connected to each other via a foot section.

[0005]

[03] discloses a wheel detector for railways which can be attached to a rail by means of two clamping units.

[0006] However, the clamping mounting devices known from the prior art are limited in their application on the rail. For example, they cannot be mounted on a rail sleeper, as conventional mounting devices would collide with the sleeper. Similarly, mounting directly next to a rail sleeper is difficult because space is required for tool access to the mounting device. This also limits the sensor's position on the rail due to the mounting device. For instance, a sensor cannot be mounted above a rail sleeper using conventional clamping mounting devices, as a conventional mounting device would collide with the sleeper.

[0007] From the aforementioned

[01] , another fastening device is known in which the clamping brackets are arranged on a common clamping element and extend away from it in a V-shape. However, such a design represents only an insufficient extension of the previously described application possibility on the rail, since fastening the sensor above a rail sleeper is still not possible. Furthermore, the V-shaped arrangement of the clamping brackets significantly reduces the receiving area for the sensor to be fastened between the clamping brackets. As a result, only sensors adapted to this reduced receiving area of ​​the fastening device can be arranged on the rail using this device. The sensor compatibility of said fastening device is therefore largely limited. Object of the invention

[0008] The object of the invention is to provide a quick-release clamping device that improves its suitability for use on rails and increases sensor compatibility. Furthermore, the invention aims to propose a sensor arrangement and a use for the quick-release clamping device. Description of the invention

[0009] This problem is solved according to the invention by a quick-release clamping device of the type mentioned above with the characterizing features according to claim 1, by a sensor arrangement of the type mentioned above with the characterizing features according to claim 11 and by using the quick-release clamping device with the characterizing features according to claim 14.

[0010] In other words, the problem is solved by a quick-release clamping device in which the clamping units can be arranged as separate elements along a longitudinal extension of the rail at intervals from one another; and in which the clamping brackets each have at least one curved section that is curved in a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis.

[0011] The quick-release clamping device according to the invention therefore has several advantages over conventional quick-release clamping devices.

[0012] First, the quick-release clamping device can be flexibly adapted to the dimensions of the rail monitoring element to be attached by changing the distance between the quick-release units along the longitudinal extent of the rail. This increases the flexibility of the quick-release clamping device with respect to the rail monitoring element to be attached.

[0013] Furthermore, the curved section formed on the clamping brackets allows the clamping areas to approach an "obstacle" located along the longitudinal axis of the rail, such as a sleeper, without reducing tool access to the clamping device or the available space for the rail monitoring element between the clamping brackets. Additionally, the separate design of the clamping units maintains a space between them along the longitudinal axis of the rail, which can be positioned, for example, around a sleeper. This enables installation over sleepers.

[0014] The rail described according to the invention is preferably a railway rail. The rail preferably has a Vignoles rail profile according to DIN EN 13674-1:2017-07, a rail profile according to British Standard, or a rail profile according to Australian Standard. For example, but by no means limited to, the rail is a 60E1, a 49E1, a 54E3, a 54E1, an R65, or a BS80. In other words, the quick-release clamping device according to the invention is designed for use on all common rail profiles.

[0015] When the quick-release clamping device is mounted on the rail, the clamping element engages the rail foot. The rail foot is the part of the rail that supports the rail. The rail head is the part of the rail designed to guide the wheels. The rail neck is the part of the rail that connects the rail foot and the rail head. Therefore, the clamping element engages the rail foot from behind, on the side opposite the rail head.

[0016] When mounted on the rail, the clamping brackets of the clamping units each engage under the rail foot. Thus, each clamping unit, in its mounted state, encompasses the rail foot.

[0017] Preferably, at least one, and in particular each, clamping unit rests against the rail foot. This, in conjunction with the two clamping areas on the clamping brackets, allows for a particularly secure fixation of the clamping unit to the rail.

[0018] The clamping units can be arranged separately on the rail or the rail monitoring element. In other words, the clamping units form a loose connection. This allows the distance between the clamping axes of the clamping units to be adjusted depending on the design of the rail monitoring element, in particular its dimensions in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the rail.

[0019] Similarly, the dimensions of the quick-release clamping device can be adjusted vertically by rotating the clamping units around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the rail to fit the rail profile. In other words, the height of the quick-release clamping device can be adjusted.

[0020] Furthermore, the quick-release clamping device can be manufactured more cost-effectively, as additional components, e.g. crossbeams for connecting the clamping units, can be dispensed with.

[0021] The clamping axis describes an axis of the clamping device along which the distance between the clamping brackets, and thus the distance between the clamping areas of the clamping brackets of a clamping unit, can be reduced. According to the invention, the clamping axis runs below the rail foot through the two clamping brackets of a clamping unit. In other words, the clamping axis runs below the rail foot of the rail. Preferably, the clamping axis runs transversely, and in particular at right angles, to the longitudinal extent of the rail. In other words, the clamping axis runs obliquely to the rail.

[0022] The curved section according to the invention preferably has an axis of curvature parallel to the clamping axis. The clamping bracket is thus curved in a plane projected in the direction of the clamping axis. The plane projected in the direction of the clamping axis corresponds to the installation space of the rail monitoring element. The curved section thus increases the receiving area for the rail monitoring element between the clamping units.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the rail monitoring element, the curved section is arc-shaped and has a radius of curvature of at least 10 millimeters, in particular at least 15 millimeters, more preferably at least 25 millimeters, and at most 130 millimeters, in particular at most 120 millimeters, and more preferably at most 110 millimeters. This increases the available space between the clamping units while maintaining moderate mechanical stress on the clamping brackets during clamping. Preferably, the curved section has several different radii of curvature. This allows the available space to be increased even more precisely with respect to moderate stress.

[0024] A preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device is one in which the clamping jaws of a clamping unit are symmetrical about a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis. This allows the tool design for one clamping jaw to be created particularly easily by mirroring the tool for the other clamping jaw, and modifications can be implemented correspondingly faster. This has a particularly favorable effect on development costs.

[0025] Preferably, the clamping units of a quick-release clamping device are identical. In other words, both clamping units can be used in both positions intended for attaching the rail monitoring element. This reduces the costs of tooling for manufacturing the clamping units, as well as the unit costs of the clamping unit components, due to a higher proportion of identical parts.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device, the clamping element is designed as a screw connection. For example, the clamping element can be designed as a plug-in screw, wherein one clamping arm has a through-hole through which the clamping element can be inserted. The other clamping arm can further have, for example, a threaded recess into which the plug-in screw can be screwed.

[0027] Preferably, the clamping device is designed as a through-bolt fitting that extends through both clamping brackets. In this case, the clamping device can have a nut at both ends for locking the screw connection. This allows the clamping device to be designed in a particularly cost-effective and reliable manner.

[0028] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the clamping device extends through the two clamping arms of a clamping unit, wherein the clamping device has a sliding body on which the clamping arms are arranged, and wherein the clamping device has a screw on each clamping arm that fastens the respective clamping arm to the sliding body and is designed to adjust a maximum distance between the clamping arms along the clamping axis. This allows the maximum distance of the clamping arms to the sliding body to be adjusted, thereby enabling asymmetrical clamping of the clamping units.

[0029] The clamping device is preferably designed for clamping by a tool, in particular one that is electrically and / or pneumatically operated. More preferably, the clamping device is designed for clamping by a tool for tightening and loosening screws and nuts. For example, the clamping device is designed for clamping by a pneumatic screwdriver and / or an electric screwdriver.

[0030] A further preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device is one in which the clamping jaws are made of a metallic material, in particular aluminum and / or steel. A metallic material has high yield strengths, which results in greater load-bearing capacity of the clamping jaws. This increases the fatigue strength and durability of the quick-release clamping device.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device, the clamping units have at least one insulating element designed to electrically insulate the quick-release clamping device from the rail. This prevents the clamping units from becoming electrically charged and thus avoids any interference with the rail monitoring element to be attached, for example, by affecting its magnetic field. Preferably, the insulating element is designed as an insulating sleeve.

[0032] Preferably, the insulating sleeve encompasses at least one first end of one of the two clamping brackets and, when the quick-release clamping device is attached to the rail, electrically insulates the device from the rail foot. In other words, the clamping unit rests against the rail foot by means of the insulating material, while the clamping brackets do not have direct contact with the rail foot. This allows for particularly reliable electrical insulation.

[0033] Preferably, the insulating sleeve, when assembled, encircles both first ends of both clamping jaws of a clamping unit. In other words, the insulating sleeve covers an intermediate area formed along the clamping axis between the clamping jaws. It is particularly advantageous that the intermediate area between the first ends of the two clamping jaws of a clamping unit can be reliably protected from contamination by the insulating material, thus ensuring the long-term functionality of the clamping unit.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device, at least one, and in particular both, clamping arms of a clamping unit have an electrical insulating element at their first and second ends. This allows the clamping unit to be electrically insulated from both the rail foot and the rail neck. Preferably, all insulating elements are designed as insulating sleeves.

[0035] A further preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device is one in which the clamping units each have at least one clamping template designed for positioning the clamping brackets on the rail neck. The clamping template facilitates the precise positioning of the clamping brackets and thus the precise positioning of the rail monitoring element on the rail. Preferably, the clamping template is adapted to the profile of the rail and / or is adaptable. This allows for even more precise positioning.

[0036] A preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device provides that a clamping template is attached or attachable to at least one, and in particular every other, end of a clamping bracket of a clamping unit. This enables a particularly secure arrangement of the clamping templates and facilitates quick attachment of the quick-release clamping device to the rail.

[0037] Preferably, the clamping templates are designed to be attached to the clamping area of ​​the clamping brackets. This allows for faster replacement of the clamping templates during maintenance and / or faster adaptation of the quick-release clamping device to a specific rail profile.

[0038] Preferably, both clamping brackets of a clamping unit are designed to accommodate at least one clamping template. In other words, the clamping template can be positioned at either the second end of one clamping bracket or the second end of the other clamping bracket.

[0039] A further preferred feature is a refinement of the quick-release clamping device in which the clamping templates have at least one element that, in conjunction with the clamping bracket, positively limits, and in particular prevents, rotation of the clamping template relative to the clamping bracket. For example, a locking projection and / or a locking recess of the clamping template can engage in a complementary recess and / or projection of the clamping bracket. This allows the relative position of the clamping template to be reliably predetermined and makes arranging the clamping units on the rail even easier.

[0040] A further preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device is one in which at least one of the clamping templates has a U-shaped cross-section parallel to the clamping axis. Preferably, the clamping template surrounds the rail monitoring element when the quick-release clamping device is positioned on the rail.

[0041] The clamping template can be designed for placement between the rail foot and a rail head. Preferably, the clamping template can be designed for a clamped arrangement between the rail foot and the rail head. Particularly preferably, the clamping template is designed to make contact only between the rail foot and the rail head. In other words, when mounted on the rail, the clamping template is arranged without contact with the rail neck. This allows for particularly reliable positioning of the clamping brackets without interfering with the mounting area of ​​the rail monitoring element on the rail.

[0042] A further preferred embodiment of the quick-release clamping device is one in which the clamping template is designed to at least partially receive, and in particular fix, the rail monitoring element. This allows the rail monitoring element to be arranged on the clamping unit with particular reliability.

[0043] Preferably, the clamping templates comprise an electrically insulating material; in particular, the clamping templates consist of an electrically insulating material. For example, the clamping templates can be made of plastic, especially PA6, and most preferably of glass fiber reinforced PA6. This allows for advantageous electrical insulation of the clamping units from the rail by means of the clamping templates and increases the strength of the clamping template.

[0044] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the clamping templates each have at least one fastening insert, in particular a sleeve-like and / or metallic one, which is designed for attaching the clamping template to the clamping area of ​​a clamping bracket. This allows the strength of the clamping template to be increased in certain areas, thereby further improving the durability of the clamping units.

[0045] The underlying problem is further solved by a sensor arrangement comprising a rail, a previously described quick-release clamping device and a rail monitoring element mounted on a rail by means of the quick-release clamping device, wherein the rail neck of the rail and the rail monitoring element are arranged at least partially between the clamping areas of the clamping brackets of two clamping units of the quick-release clamping device; wherein the clamping units each encompass the rail foot of the rail; and wherein a clamping force is exerted along a clamping axis extending through the clamping areas between the clamping unit, the rail monitoring element and the rail neck.

[0046] According to the sensor arrangement according to the invention, the rail monitoring element is thus pressed against the rail neck of the rail by means of the clamping units of the quick-release clamping device. This enables a damage-free and permanent arrangement of the rail monitoring element on the rail, which can be released again if necessary.

[0047] Another advantage of the sensor arrangement according to the invention is that the distance between the clamping units of a quick-release clamping device can be adapted to the rail monitoring element to be attached, so that rail monitoring elements of different dimensions can be attached to the rail with the same quick-release clamping device.

[0048] A further advantage is that the space between the clamping units of a quick-release clamping device is not blocked by additional components, such as crossbeams. This allows the sensor arrangement to be positioned so that, for example, a rail sleeper is located in the space between the two clamping units. In other words, the clamping units can be positioned along the longitudinal axis of the rail on both sides next to the sleeper, allowing the rail monitoring element to be attached to the rail neck above the sleeper. This increases the flexibility in positioning the rail monitoring element.

[0049] According to the invention, the two clamping areas of the clamping bracket lie on the clamping axis. The clamping axis runs transversely, in particular at right angles, to the longitudinal extent of the rail. Preferably, the clamping axis is designed parallel to the clamping axis.

[0050] Preferably, the clamping units of a quick-release clamping device have the same, and in particular identical, clamping brackets. In other words, one clamping unit has the same clamping brackets as the other clamping unit. Particularly preferably, the quick-release clamping device has two identical clamping units.

[0051] The clamping brackets of one clamping unit can be arranged on the rail pointing towards and / or away from another clamping unit. In other words, the curved sections of the clamping brackets can be bent towards each other and / or away from each other.

[0052] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the sensor arrangement, the distance between the clamping axes is greater than the distance between the clamping axes of the clamping units, and a rail sleeper is positioned between the clamping units. In other words, the clamping brackets of the clamping units are directed away from each other, or the curved sections of the clamping brackets of one clamping unit are curved away from the other. This allows for the largest possible gap between the clamping units to accommodate the rail sleeper (over-sleeper mounting). Due to the opposing curved sections of the clamping brackets, the distance between the rail sleeper and the clamping axis is increased, thus enabling ample tool access to the clamping elements of the clamping units.

[0053] In an alternative preferred embodiment of the sensor arrangement, the distance between the clamping axes is smaller than the distance between the clamping axes of the clamping units, and the clamping units are arranged between two adjacent rail sleepers. In other words, the clamping brackets of one clamping unit are curved towards the other, or the curved sections of the clamping brackets are curved towards the other clamping unit. This allows the dimensions of the quick-release clamping device to be kept small in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the rail. This enables the quick-release clamping device to be arranged between the adjacent rail sleepers (intermediate sleeper mounting). Due to the mutually facing curved sections of the clamping brackets, there is an increased distance between the rail sleeper and the clamping axis, thus allowing ample tool access to the clamping elements of the clamping units.

[0054] The underlying problem is further solved by using the previously described quick-release clamping device to arrange a rail monitoring element on a rail neck of a rail above a rail sleeper of the rail.

[0055] Preferably, parts of the quick-release clamping device are pre-assembled / fixed to the respective rail monitoring element before the rail monitoring element is mounted to the rail. This significantly simplifies the mounting process and prevents small parts from being lost.

[0056] Further advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description and the drawing. Likewise, the features mentioned above and those described in more detail below can each be used individually or in combination according to the invention, as required by the claims. The embodiments shown and described are not to be understood as an exhaustive list, but rather serve as examples illustrating the invention. Detailed description of the invention and drawing

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a sensor arrangement with a rail, a rail monitoring element, and a quick-release clamping device in a perspective view. Fig. 2 shows the sensor arrangement made of Fig. 1Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of a sensor arrangement in a side view on a rail with a low rail profile. Fig. 4 shows a third embodiment of a sensor arrangement on a rail sleeper in a perspective view in sleeper mounting. Fig. 5 shows a quick-release clamping device with two clamping units in a perspective view with clamping templates and insulating sleeve. Fig. 6 shows a clamping unit of the quick-release clamping device. Fig. 5Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of a clamping template for a quick-release clamping device in a perspective view with a rigid rail stop and a spring-loaded rail stop. Fig. 8 shows another embodiment of a clamping template for a quick-release clamping device in a perspective view with two rigid rail stops and several locking projections.

[0058] Fig. 1 shows a sensor arrangement 10 having a rail 12, a rail monitoring element 14 and a quick-release clamping device 16. The rail monitoring element 14 has a first rail contact half 18 - here in the form of a transmitter unit - and a second rail contact half 20- here in the form of a receiving unit. The first rail contact half 18 and the second rail contact half 20 are attached to a rail neck on both sides of the rail 12 by means of the same quick-release device 16. 22 arranged clamped to rail 12.

[0059] The quick-release clamping device 16 has a first clamping unit 24 and a second clamping unit 26 The clamping units 24, 26 are arranged along a longitudinal extent. 28 The clamping units 24 and 26 are arranged at intervals on the rail 12. They are only connected to each other via the rail 12 when assembled.

[0060] Each clamping unit 24, 26 has a first clamping bracket 30 and a second clamping bracket 32 on (In Fig. 1 (Only a second clamping bracket 32 ​​is visible). The clamping brackets 30, 32 each engage under a rail foot. 34of the rail 12. In other words, each clamping unit 24, 26 with the clamping brackets 30, 32 encompasses the rail foot 34.

[0061] The first clamping bracket 30 and the second clamping bracket 32 ​​of the first clamping unit 24 and the second clamping unit 26 are each at a first end 36 (see Fig. 6 ) by a clamping device 38 connected to each other. The clamping devices 38 run below the rail foot 34 and point in Fig. 1 Screw connections are shown as an example. By actuating the clamping devices 38 – here by rotating the screw connections – the distance between the first clamping bracket 30 and the second clamping bracket 32 ​​of the respective clamping unit 24, 26 can be adjusted along a clamping axis. 40 will be changed.

[0062] Subsequently, the distance between the clamping bracket 30 and the clamping bracket 32 ​​along a clamping axis is also determined. 42 modified. Each clamping axis 42 runs through two clamping areas. 44a clamping unit 24, 26 (for clarity, only one clamping area 44 is marked with a reference symbol). The clamping brackets 30, 32 have the clamping areas 44 at a second end. 46 Along each clamping axis 42 of the clamping brackets 30, 32, both the rail monitoring element 14 and the rail neck 22 are partially arranged. If the distance between the clamping brackets 30, 32 is reduced by the clamping means 38, for example, a clamping force is exerted that clamps the rail monitoring element 14 to the rail neck 22 along the clamping axes 42. If the distance between the clamping brackets 30, 32 is increased by the clamping means 38, the rail monitoring element 14 can be released from the rail 12.

[0063] The quick-release clamping device 16 has four clamping templates according to the embodiment shown. 48 on, of which three clamping templates 48 in Fig. 1are visible. A clamping template 48 is attached to each clamping area 44 of a clamping bracket 30, 32. Each clamping template 48 can be designed to partially accommodate the rail monitoring element 14. In other words, each clamping template 48 can, as shown, encompass an end area of ​​the rail monitoring element 14. The clamping templates 44 are adapted to the profile of the rail 12 and are positioned between the rail foot 34 and a rail head. 50 The clamping templates 14 are positioned on the rail 12 without contacting the rail neck 22. In other words, the vertical movement of the clamping templates 14 is prevented by the rail foot 34 and the rail head 50, or the clamping templates 14 are clamped between the rail foot 34 and the rail head 50. This allows the clamping position of the rail monitoring element 14 on the rail neck 22 of the rail 12 to be determined with particular reliability.

[0064] Fig. 2The sensor arrangement shows 10. Fig. 1 with the rail monitoring element 14, which is attached to the rail 12 by means of the quick-release device 16.

[0065] As in Fig. 2 The clamping units 24, 26 are shown in the longitudinal dimension 28 (see Fig. 1 The rail 12 is arranged at intervals. The clamping axes 40 of the clamping units 24, 26 have a clamping axis spacing of 52 and the clamping axes 42 of the clamping units 24, 26 have a clamping axis distance 54 The clamping axis spacing 52 is smaller than the clamping axis spacing 54 according to the illustrated embodiment. The clamping units 24, 26 are positioned completely below the rail monitoring element 14. This allows the dimension of the sensor arrangement 10 in the direction of the longitudinal extension 28 of the rail 12 to be kept small.

[0066] Furthermore, the illustrated sensor arrangement 10 can be moved closer to a colliding object on the rail, e.g. a rail sleeper, in the direction of the longitudinal extent 28 of the rail 12. 56 (see Fig. 4 ) can be brought closer, since half the difference between the clamping axis distance 54 and the clamping axis distance 52 can be used for tool access to the clamping means 38.

[0067] A straight line 58, which intersects the clamping axis 40 and the clamping axis 42 at right angles runs at an angle 60 oblique to the longitudinal extent 28 of the rail 12 (For clarity, only a straight line 58 and an angle 60 are shown in Fig. 2(with a reference numeral). By rotating the clamping units 24, 26 about the respective clamping axis 40, the vertical position of the rail monitoring element 14 on the rail 12 can be adjusted. For example, a small angle 60 results in a low vertical position of the rail monitoring element 14 on the rail 12, where the clamping axis distance 52 is small and the clamping axis distance 54 is large compared to a medium angle 60. Conversely, a large angle 60 results, for example, in a high vertical position of the rail monitoring element 14 on the rail 12, where the clamping axis distance 52 is large and the clamping axis distance 54 is small compared to a medium angle 60.

[0068] The clamping units 24, 26 have a curvature section 62which is curved in a normal plane to the clamping axis 40 of the respective clamping unit 24, 26. In other words, the curvature section 62 deviates from the straight line 58 at least in a partial segment. The curvature section 62 has at least one radius of curvature. 64, 66 In the illustrated embodiment of the quick-release clamping device 16, two radii of curvature 64 and 66 are provided with reference numerals. The radius of curvature 64 differs in its value from the radius of curvature 66.

[0069] Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the sensor arrangement 10 in a side view. The in Fig. 3 The sensor arrangement 10 shown differs from the one in the Fig. 1 and 2 The embodiment shown differs essentially in that the clamping units are arranged at a different angle to the rail.

[0070] According to the illustration, rail 12 has a low rail profile, e.g., a BS80 profile. In other words, the rail neck 22 of rail 12 has a small dimension in the vertical direction, which makes a conventional arrangement of the rail monitoring element 14 difficult.

[0071] By rotating the clamping units 24, 26, a small angle 60° can be set in this case – as shown – thereby reducing the dimension of the quick-release clamping device 16 in the vertical direction. This allows the rail monitoring element 14 to be attached to the rail 12 with a low rail profile without any modifications to the components of the quick-release clamping device 16. Furthermore, no additional installation space is required below the rail 12, and the clamping units 24, 26 can rest against the rail foot 22.

[0072] Fig. 4Figure 1 shows another embodiment of the sensor arrangement 10, in which the rail monitoring element 14 is attached to the rail 12 above a rail sleeper 56 by means of the quick-release clamping device 16.

[0073] The clamping units 24, 26 of the quick-release clamping device 16 are arranged on the rail 12 such that the clamping axis distance 52 is greater than the clamping axis distance 54. In other words, the clamping units 24, 26 are curved away from the rail monitoring element 14 and the respective other clamping unit 24, 26, respectively. The dimension of the quick-release clamping device 16 in the longitudinal extension 28 of the rail 12 is increased, thereby providing half the difference between the clamping axis distance 52 and the clamping axis distance 54 for tool access to the clamping means 38.

[0074] Fig. 5Figure 16 shows a quick-release clamping device 16 with two clamping units 24 and 26. Each clamping unit 24 and 26 has a first clamping bracket 30 and a second clamping bracket 32. In the illustrated embodiment, clamping unit 24 is essentially identical to clamping unit 26. In other words, clamping unit 24 can be rotated about a vertical axis and used as clamping unit 26.

[0075] The first clamping bracket 30 and the second clamping bracket 32 ​​are at their first ends 36 (see Fig. 6 ) are connected to each other by a clamping device 38 and can be moved towards or away from each other along the clamping axis 40 by the clamping device 38. Accordingly, the clamping areas 44 formed at the second ends 46 of the clamping brackets 30, 32 can be moved towards or away from each other along the clamping axis 42 by the clamping device 38.

[0076] The clamping areas 44 preferably each have at least one clamping stop.68 for transmitting a clamping force from the clamping bracket 30, 32 to the rail monitoring element 14 (see Figs. 1-4 ). According to the illustration, the clamping unit 24, 26 has the clamping stop 68 on the clamping template 48. The clamping stop 68 can also be formed directly on the clamping bracket 30, 32.

[0077] Furthermore, it may be provided that the clamping unit 24, 26, in particular on each clamping bracket 30, 32, has a centering projection extending along the clamping axis 42 beyond the clamping stop 68. 70 The centering projection 70 is preferably designed to engage in a complementary recess of the rail monitoring element 14. This allows the rail monitoring element 14 to be clamped in a particularly precise position by the clamping units 24, 26.

[0078] In a particularly generally applicable embodiment, at least one clamping template 48 is perpendicular in at least one direction to the clamping axis 42, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal extent 28 of the rail 12 (see Fig. 1 , 2 and 4 ) is designed to be movable. In other words, the clamping template 48 is movable relative to the clamping bracket 78. This allows angular misalignments caused by elastic deformation of the clamping brackets and shaft during clamping to be compensated for.

[0079] The clamping brackets 30 have an insulating material. 72 in the form of a plastic sleeve that electrically insulates the rail monitoring element 14 from the clamping bracket 30 in an arranged state. The insulating element 72 is, as shown, attached to the centering projection 70 of the clamping bracket 30.

[0080] Each clamping unit 24, 26 has a first end 36 (see Fig. 6 ) the clamping bracket 30, 32 covering insulating material74 in the form of a plastic sleeve, which electrically insulates the clamping units 24, 26 from the rail foot 34 in the arranged state of the quick-release clamping device 16 on a rail 12. Such an covering insulating material 74 can prevent contamination of the intermediate area between the first ends 36 of the clamping brackets 30, 32, thereby maintaining functionality. In addition, the insulating material 74 can serve as a stop surface of the quick-release clamping device 16 on the rail 12. This, together with the clamping areas 44 for each clamping unit 24, 26, enables three-point fixation on the rail 12.

[0081] Each clamping bracket 30, 32 can, according to the embodiment shown, have a cylindrical clamping element section 76The clamping element 76 engages the rail foot 34 in an arranged state of the quick-release clamping device 16 on the rail 12 and is designed to at least partially accommodate the clamping element 38. In other words, the clamping element section 76 is predominantly formed along the clamping element axis 40.

[0082] Each clamping bracket 30, 32 can have a load-optimized clamping section according to the embodiment shown. 78 exhibiting a structure that extends predominantly in a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis 40. A load-optimized structure refers to the design of the clamping section 78, which is tailored to the intended load case – in this case, the bending moment about a vertical axis of the respective clamping bracket 30, 32. This effectively prevents oversizing of the clamping brackets 30, 32. Each clamping bracket 30, 32 can, for example, incorporate stiffening ribs. 80exhibiting features which are formed between the clamping element section 76 and the clamping section 78 for the direction-dependent increase of the strength of the clamping brackets 30, 32.

[0083] The insulating material 74 can have 40 recesses in the direction of the clamping element axis. 82 The clamping brackets 30, 32 of the same clamping unit 24, 26 have projections – here two stiffening ribs 80 – that engage in the projections and prevent relative rotation of the clamping brackets 30, 32 to each other. This simplifies the arrangement of the quick-release clamping device 16 on the rail 12.

[0084] Fig. 6 The clamping unit 24, 26 of the quick-release clamping device 16 is shown. Fig. 5with the first clamping bracket 30 and the second clamping bracket 32, but without the clamping templates 48 and the insulating elements 72, 74. The clamping brackets 30, 32 each have a first end 36 and a second end 46. The first ends 36 are connected by the clamping element 38 such that the clamping brackets 30, 32 can be moved relative to each other along the clamping axis 40.

[0085] The clamping device 38 can be a cylindrical sliding body as shown. 84 The cylindrical sliding body 84 can be inserted into recesses formed at its first ends 36 along the clamping axis 40 in the clamping brackets 30, 32, and the clamping brackets 30, 32 are movably arranged on it along the clamping axis 40. The cylindrical sliding body 84 can further have threaded recesses at both ends, into which a screw can be inserted. 86 can be screwed in. By turning the screws 86, the maximum distance between the clamping brackets 30, 32 along the clamping axis 40 can be adjusted.

[0086] The clamping bracket 30 is essentially mirror-symmetrical to the clamping bracket 32. However, the clamping bracket 30 has a support projection extending along the clamping axis 40 beyond the cylindrical clamping element section 76. 88 The support projection 88 is advantageous for adapting the clamping unit 24, 26 with respect to the width of the rail foot 34. Furthermore, the support projection 88 can be used to receive the insulating element 74. The support projection 88 can be formed integrally with one of the clamping brackets 30, 32 or the insulating element 74, or it can be arranged loosely on the clamping element 38.

[0087] Fig. 7 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a clamping template 48. The clamping template 48 has a base body with a U-shaped or C-shaped cross-section. 90The base body 90 can, for example, be manufactured from a plastic using a plastic injection molding process. The clamping template 48 has a fastening insert arranged in the base body 90. 92 The fastening insert 92 is preferably made of metal. Furthermore, the fastening insert 92 is preferably overmolded with plastic during the manufacture of the base body 90 and is inseparably bonded to the base body 90. The clamping template 48 can, for example, be placed on the centering projection 70 (see Fig. 5 The clamping brackets 30, 32 are slid onto the clamping arms. The fastening insert 92 preferably forms the clamping stop 68 (see Fig. 5 ) out of.

[0088] The interior surfaces 94 of the base body 90 are for the partial accommodation of the rail monitoring element 14 (see Figs. 1-4 ) formed and adapted to the outer contour of the part of the rail monitoring element 14 to be received.

[0089] The clamping template 48 or the base body 90 also has a rigid rail stop according to the embodiment shown. 96 and a spring-loaded rail stop 98 The rail stops 96, 98 rest against the rail foot 34 and the rail head 50 when the clamping template 48 is attached to the rail 12. In other words, the rail stops 96, 98 are adapted to the shape of the rail foot 34 and the shape of the rail head 50. The spring-loaded rail stop 98 allows the clamping template 48 to be used particularly easily on rail profiles with only slight variations.

[0090] The spring-loaded rail stop 98 can be formed in one piece on the clamping template 48.

[0091] In a particular embodiment, the spring-loaded rail stop 98 is made of a metallic material, in particular spring steel. Typically, in this case, the spring-loaded rail stop 98 is arranged on the clamping template 48.

[0092] Fig. 8 shows another embodiment of a clamping template 48. The one in Fig. 8 The clamping template 48 shown has two rigid rail stops 96.

[0093] Furthermore, the clamping template 48 has several - here four - locking projections formed on the base body 90. 100 in a state of the clamping template 48 arranged on a clamping bracket 30, 32, engage in complementary recesses on the clamping bracket 30, 32 and form a rotation lock of the clamping template 48 relative to the clamping bracket 30, 32.

[0094] In a particular embodiment, the second end 46 of at least one clamping bracket 30, 32 may have at least one locking projection 100 which engages in a recess of the clamping template 48 to prevent rotation. Preferably, the recess is designed as an elongated slot. Reference symbol list

[0095] 10 Sensor arrangement; 12 Rail; 14 Rail monitoring element; 16 Quick-release clamping device; 18 First rail contact half; 20 Second rail contact half; 22 Rail neck of rail 12; 24 First clamping unit; 26 Second clamping unit; 28 Longitudinal extension of rail 12; 30 First clamping bracket; 32 Second clamping bracket; 34 Rail foot of rail 12; 36 First end of clamping brackets 30, 32; 38 Clamping means; 40 Clamping axis; 42 Clamping axis; 44 Clamping area; 46 Second end of clamping brackets 30, 32; 48 Clamping template; 50 Rail head of rail 12; 52 Clamping axis spacing; 54 Clamping axis spacing; 56 Rail sleeper; 58 Straight section; 60 Angle; 62 Curved section; 64 Radius of curved section 62; 66 Radius of curved section 62; 68 Clamping stop; 70 Centering projection; 72 Insulator; 74 Insulator; 76 Clamping element section; 78 Clamping section; 80 Stiffening rib; 82 Recesses on the insulating element 74; 84 Sliding body; 86 Screw; 88 Support projection; 90 Base body of clamping template 48; 92 Fastening insert of clamping template 48;94Inner surface of the clamping template 48; 96Rigid rail stop; 98Spring-loaded rail stop; 100Safety projections. ; Bibliography

[0096]

[01] EP 3 420 134 B1 (Siemens Mobility GmbH)

[02] WO 2016 / 188770

[03] EP 0 779 195 A1

Claims

1. Quick clamping device (16) for fastening at least one rail monitoring element (14) to a rail (12), having two clamping units (24, 26); wherein the clamping units (24, 26) each have two clamping brackets (30, 32) and a clamping means (38); wherein it is possible for the two clamping brackets (30, 32) to each be connected at a first end (36) by the clamping means (38) along a clamping axis (40) in such a way that the clamping means (38) engages under the rail foot (34) of the rail (12) when said foot is fastened to the rail (12), and wherein the clamping brackets (30, 32) at a second end (46) each have a clamping region (44) which is designed for force-fit arrangement on a rail web (22) of the rail (12) and / or the rail monitoring element (14); wherein the clamping brackets (30, 32) each have at least one curvature portion (62) which is curved in a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis (40), characterized in that the clamping units (24, 26) can be arranged on the rail (12) as separate elements at a distance from one another along a longitudinal extent (28) of the rail (12).

2. Quick clamping device (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that the clamping brackets (30, 32) of a clamping unit (24, 26) are symmetrical with respect to a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis (40).

3. Quick clamping device (16) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the clamping means (38) is designed as a bolt connection, wherein the bolt connection passes through the clamping brackets (30, 32) of a clamping unit (24, 26).

4. Quick clamping device (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamping brackets (30, 32) are made of a metallic material, in particular aluminum.

5. Quick clamping device (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamping units (24, 26) have at least one insulating means (72, 74) which is designed to electrically insulate the quick clamping device from the rail, wherein the insulating means (72, 74) is preferably designed as an insulating sleeve.

6. Quick clamping device (16) according to claim 5, characterized in that the clamping units (24, 26) have an electrical insulating means (72, 74) at the first end (36) of each clamping bracket (30, 32) and at least at a second end (46) of one of the clamping brackets (30, 32), wherein the insulating means (72, 74) are preferably designed as insulating sleeves.

7. Quick clamping device (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamping units (24, 26) each have at least one clamping template (48) which is designed for positioning the clamping brackets (30, 32) on the rail web (22).

8. Quick clamping device (16) according to claim 7, characterized in that a clamping template (48) is fastened to the second end (46) of a clamping bracket (30, 32) in each case, preferably the clamping templates (48) can be plugged onto the clamping region (44) of the clamping brackets (30, 32).

9. Quick clamping device (16) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the clamping templates (48) have at least one element, in particular a securing projection 100 or a securing recess, which, in conjunction with the clamping bracket (30, 32), form-lockingly limits, in particular prevents, rotation of the clamping template (48) relative to the clamping bracket (30, 32).

10. Quick clamping device (16) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the clamping template (48) is designed to at least partially receive, in particular fix, the rail monitoring element (24).

11. Sensor arrangement (10) having a rail (10), a quick clamping device (16) according to any one of the preceding claims, and a rail monitoring element (14) mounted on the rail (12) by means of the quick clamping device (16), wherein the rail web (22) of the rail (12) and the rail monitoring element (14) are at least partially arranged between the clamping regions (44) of the clamping brackets (30, 32) of two clamping units (30, 32) of the quick clamping device (16); wherein the clamping units (24, 26) each engage around the rail foot (34) of the rail (12); and wherein, along a clamp axis (42) running through the clamping regions (44), a clamping force is produced between the corresponding clamping unit (24, 26), the rail monitoring element (14), and the rail web (22).

12. Sensor arrangement (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that a clamping axis distance (52) between the clamping axes (40) is greater than a clamp axis distance (54) between the clamp axes (42) of the clamping units (24, 26), and a rail tie (56) is arranged between the clamping units (24, 26).

13. Sensor arrangement (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the clamping axis distance (52) between the clamping axes (40) is smaller than the clamp axis distance (54) between the clamp axes (42) of the clamping units (24, 26), and the clamping units (24, 26) are arranged between two rail ties (56).

14. Use of the quick clamping device (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 for arranging a rail monitoring element (14) on a rail web (22) of a rail (12) above a rail tie (56) of the rail (12).

15. Use according to claim 14, characterized in that the parts of the quick clamping device are pre-mounted / fixed on the corresponding rail monitoring element before the rail monitoring element is mounted on the rail.