Quick clamping device, sensor arrangement having a quick clamping device, and use of a quick clamping device

Abstract

The invention relates to a quick clamping device (16) for securing at least one rail-monitoring element (14) on a rail (12), comprising two clamping units (24, 26); wherein the clamping units (24, 26) each have two clamping brackets (30, 32) and one clamping means (38); wherein the in each case two clamping brackets (30, 32) are connectable at a first end (36) by the clamping means (38) along a clamping axis (40), such that the clamping means (38), when secured on the rail (12), engages under the rail foot (34) of the rail (12), and wherein the clamping brackets (30, 32) each have, at a second end (46), a clamping region (44) which is designed to be arranged non-positively on a rail web (22) of the rail (12) and / or on the rail-monitoring element (14); characterized in that the clamping units (24, 26), as separate elements, can be arranged on the rail (12) so as to be mutually spaced along a longitudinal extent (28) of the rail (12); and the clamping brackets (30, 32) each have at least one curvature portion (62) that is curved in a plane orthogonal with respect to the clamping axis (40). The invention furthermore relates to a sensor arrangement (10) having a quick clamping device (16), having a rail (12) and having a rail-monitoring element (14). The invention furthermore relates to the use of the quick clamping device (16) for securing a rail-monitoring element (14) above a rail tie (56).

Description

[0001] Quick-release device, sensor arrangement with a quick-release device and use of a quick-release device

[0002] Background of the invention

[0003] The invention relates to a quick-action clamping device for fastening at least one rail monitoring element to a rail, comprising two clamping units. The clamping units each have two clamping brackets and a clamping means. The two clamping brackets can each be connected at a first end by the clamping means along a clamping axis such that the clamping means, when fastened to the rail, engages below the rail foot. The clamping brackets each have a clamping area at a second end, which is designed for non-positive arrangement on a rail neck of the rail and / or the rail monitoring element. The invention also relates to a sensor arrangement comprising the quick-action clamping device and to a use of the quick-action clamping device.

[0004] Quick-release clamps are used, for example, in railway systems for the damage-free attachment of rail monitoring elements to the rail. The rail monitoring element is clamped to the rail by the quick-release clamp. This eliminates the need to drill holes in the rail to create a screw fastening. The rail monitoring element can be secured by the quick-release clamp permanently, i.e., for the lifetime of the monitoring element, or only temporarily, e.g., until an adhesive between the rail and the monitoring element hardens.

[0005] From

[0001] , a fastening device and a method for fastening at least one sensor to a railway track are known. The fastening device comprises two clamping brackets and two cross-members connecting the clamping brackets. The clamping brackets are arranged on the cross-members in a foldable manner, so that the fastening device can be pushed under a rail when the clamping brackets are folded in. The clamping brackets can then be unfolded to fasten the sensor to the rail.

[0006] However, the clamping fastening devices known from the prior art are limited in their application on the rail. For example, they cannot be arranged on a rail sleeper, as conventional fastening devices would collide with the rail sleeper. Likewise, direct arrangement next to a rail sleeper is difficult, as installation space is required for tool access to the fastening device. As a result, the position of the sensor on the rail is also limited by the fastening device. For example, a sensor with conventional clamping fastening devices cannot be attached to the rail above a rail sleeper, as a conventional fastening device would collide with the rail sleeper.

[0007] From the previously mentioned

[0001] , a further fastening device is known in which the clamping brackets are arranged on a common clamping means and extend away from this in a V-shape. However, such a design represents only an inadequate extension of the previously described application possibility on the rail, since fastening the sensor above a rail sleeper is still not possible. In addition, the V-shaped arrangement of the clamping brackets considerably reduces the receiving area for the sensor to be fastened between the clamping brackets. As a result, only sensors which are adapted to this reduced receiving area of ​​the fastening device can be arranged on the rail by means of the fastening device. The sensor compatibility of said fastening device is therefore largely limited.

[0008] Object of the invention

[0009] The object of the invention is to provide a quick-release clamping device that improves the usability on the rail and increases sensor compatibility. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to propose a sensor arrangement and a use of the quick-release clamping device.

[0010] Description of the invention

[0011] This object is achieved according to the invention by a quick-action clamping device of the type mentioned at the outset with the characterizing features according to claim 1, by a sensor arrangement of the type mentioned at the outset with the characterizing features according to claim 11 and by a use of the quick-action clamping device with the characterizing features according to claim 14.

[0012] In other words, the object is achieved by a quick-action clamping device in which the clamping units can be arranged as separate elements along a longitudinal extent of the rail at a distance from one another on the rail; and in which the clamping brackets each have at least one curved section which is curved in a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis.

[0013] The quick-release device according to the invention thus has several advantages over conventional quick-release devices.

[0014] 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.

[0015] In addition, the curved section formed on the clamping brackets allows the clamping areas to approach an "obstacle" located along the longitudinal extension of the rail, for example, a rail sleeper, without reducing the accessibility of the tool to the clamping device or a receiving area for the rail monitoring element between the clamping brackets. Furthermore, the separate design of the clamping units keeps a gap formed in the longitudinal direction of the rail between the clamping units free, which can be positioned around a rail sleeper, for example. This enables over-sleeper installation.

[0016] The rail described according to the invention is preferably a railway rail. The rail preferably has a Vignole rail profile according to DIN EN 13674-1:2017-07, a rail profile according to the British Standard, or a rail profile according to the Australian Standard. For example, and by no means exclusively, the rail is a 60E1, a 49E1, a 54E3, a 54E1, an R.65, or a BS80. In other words, the quick-action clamping device according to the invention is designed for use on all common rail profiles.

[0017] When the quick-action clamping device is mounted on the rail, the clamping device engages under 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 that is designed to guide the train wheels. The rail neck is the part of the rail that connects the rail foot and the rail head. Engaging under the rail foot therefore means engaging behind the rail on the side opposite the rail head. When the clamping unit is mounted on the rail, the clamping brackets of the clamping units each engage under the rail foot. Thus, each clamping unit engages around the rail foot in the mounted state.

[0018] Preferably, at least one, in particular each, clamping unit rests against the rail base. 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.

[0019] The clamping units can be arranged separately from one another on the rail or the rail monitoring element. In other words, the clamping units form a loose assembly. 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 the dimensions of the rail monitoring element in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the rail.

[0020] Likewise, the dimensions of the quick-action clamping device can be adjusted vertically to the rail profile by rotating the clamping units around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the rail. In other words, the height of the quick-action clamping device can be adjusted.

[0021] In addition, the quick-action clamping device can be manufactured more cost-effectively because additional components, such as cross members for connecting the clamping units, are not required.

[0022] 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, in particular at right angles, to the longitudinal extent of the rail. In other words, the clamping axis runs skew to the rail. The curved section according to the invention preferably has an axis of curvature parallel to the clamping axis. The clamping bracket is therefore 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 enlarges 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 arcuate and has a radius of curvature of at least 10 millimeters, in particular of at least 15 millimeters, particularly preferably of at least 25 millimeters, and at most 130 millimeters, in particular of at most 120 millimeters, particularly preferably of at most 110 millimeters. This facilitates the enlargement of the receiving area between the clamping units while simultaneously maintaining moderate mechanical stress in the clamping brackets when clamping the clamping units. Preferably, the curved section has several different radii of curvature. This allows the receiving area to be enlarged even more precisely with respect to a moderate load.

[0024] A preferred embodiment of the quick-action clamping device is one in which the clamping brackets of a clamping unit are designed symmetrically to a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis. This allows the tool design for one clamping bracket to be carried out particularly easily by mirroring the tool for the other clamping bracket, and modifications can be implemented accordingly more quickly. This has a particularly favorable effect on development costs.

[0025] Preferably, the clamping units of a quick-action clamping device are identically designed. In other words, both clamping units can be used in both positions intended for fastening the rail monitoring element. This allows the costs of manufacturing tools for the clamping units as well as the unit costs of the clamping unit components to be reduced by a higher proportion of identical parts.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment of the quick-action clamping device, the clamping means is designed as a screw connection. For example, the clamping means can be designed as a plug-in screw, with one clamping bracket having a through-hole through which the clamping means can be pushed. The other clamping bracket can furthermore have, for example, a threaded recess into which the plug-in screw can be screwed.

[0027] Preferably, the clamping device is designed in the form of a push-through screw connection that extends through the two clamping brackets. In this case, the clamping device can have a screw nut at both ends to lock the screw connection. This allows the clamping device to be designed particularly cost-effectively and reliably.

[0028] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the clamping means extends through the two clamping brackets of a clamping unit, wherein the clamping means comprises a sliding body on which the clamping brackets are arranged, and wherein the clamping means comprises a screw on each clamping bracket, which screws fasten the respective clamping bracket to the sliding body and are designed to adjust a maximum distance between the clamping brackets along the clamping axis. This allows the maximum distance of the clamping brackets from the sliding body to be adjusted, thus enabling asymmetric clamping of the clamping units.

[0029] The clamping device is preferably designed for clamping by a tool, in particular an electrically and / or pneumatically operated tool. Further preferably, the clamping device is designed for clamping by a tool for screwing and unscrewing screws and nuts. For example, the clamping device is designed for clamping by a pneumatic screwdriver and / or an electric screwdriver. Further preferred is an embodiment of the quick-action clamping device in which the clamping brackets 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 brackets. This can increase the fatigue strength and durability of the quick-action clamping device.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the quick-action clamping device, the clamping units have at least one insulating means designed to electrically insulate the quick-action clamping device from the rail. This prevents electrical charging of the clamping units and the associated interference with the rail monitoring element to be attached, for example, by influencing its magnetic field. The insulating means is preferably designed as an insulating sleeve.

[0031] Preferably, the insulating sleeve surrounds at least a first end of one of the two clamping brackets and, when the quick-action clamping device is attached to the rail, electrically insulates the quick-action clamping device from the rail foot. In other words, the clamping unit rests against the rail foot by means of the insulating means, while the clamping brackets do not have direct contact with the rail foot. This allows for particularly reliable electrical insulation.

[0032] Furthermore, the insulating sleeve preferably encompasses both first ends of both clamping brackets of a clamping unit when assembled. In other words, the insulating sleeve covers an intermediate region formed along the clamping axis between the clamping brackets. Particularly advantageously, the intermediate region between the first ends of the two clamping brackets of a clamping unit can be reliably protected from contamination by the insulating means, and the functionality of the clamping unit can be permanently maintained.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment of the quick-action clamping device, at least one, and in particular both, clamping brackets of a clamping unit have an electrical insulating means at the 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 means are designed as insulating sleeves.

[0034] A further preferred embodiment of the quick-action clamping device is one in which the clamping units each have at least one clamping template designed to position the clamping brackets on the rail neck. The clamping template facilitates the precise positioning of the clamping brackets and thus the precise position of the rail monitoring element on the rail. The clamping template is preferably adapted to the profile of the rail and / or designed to be adaptable. This allows for even more precise positioning.

[0035] A preferred development of the quick-clamping device provides that a clamping template is attached or can be attached to at least one, in particular each, second end of a clamping bracket of a clamping unit. This enables a particularly captive arrangement of the clamping templates and facilitates rapid attachment of the quick-clamping device to the rail.

[0036] Preferably, the clamping templates are designed to be plugged into the clamping area of ​​the clamping brackets. This allows for faster changing of the clamping templates during maintenance and / or faster adjustment of the quick-action clamping device to a specific rail profile.

[0037] Further preferably, both clamping brackets of a clamping unit are designed for arranging the at least one clamping template. In other words, the clamping template can be arranged both at the second end of one clamping bracket and at the second end of the other clamping bracket.

[0038] A further preferred development of the quick-action clamping device is one in which the clamping templates comprise at least one element that, in conjunction with the clamping bracket, positively limits, in particular prevents, rotation of the clamping template relative to the clamping bracket. For example, a securing projection and / or a securing recess in the clamping template can engage in a complementary recess and / or projection in the clamping bracket. This allows the relative position of the clamping template to the clamping bracket to be reliably predetermined, making it even easier to arrange the clamping units on the rail.

[0039] A further preferred development of the quick-action clamping device is one in which at least one of the clamping templates is U-shaped in a cross-section parallel to the clamping axis. The clamping template preferably encompasses the rail monitoring element when the quick-action clamping device is arranged on the rail.

[0040] The clamping template can be designed for placement between the rail foot and a rail head of the rail. Preferably, the clamping template can be designed for clamped placement between the rail foot and the rail head. Particularly preferably, the clamping template is designed only to contact the rail foot and the rail head of the rail. In other words, when mounted on the rail, the clamping template is arranged without contact with the rail neck. This allows the clamping brackets to be positioned particularly reliably without interfering with the fastening area of ​​the rail monitoring element on the rail.

[0041] A further preferred development of the quick-action clamping device is one in which the clamping template is designed to at least partially accommodate, in particular fix, the rail monitoring element. This allows the rail monitoring element to be arranged particularly reliably on the clamping unit.

[0042] The clamping templates preferably comprise an electrically insulating material, in particular the clamping templates are made of an electrically insulating material. For example, the clamping templates can be made of plastic, in particular PA6, particularly preferably glass fiber reinforced PA6. This advantageously allows the clamping units to be electrically insulated from the rail by means of the clamping templates, increasing the strength of the clamping template.

[0043] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the clamping templates each have at least one fastening insert, in particular a sleeve-like and / or metallic one, designed to secure 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, further improving the durability of the clamping units.

[0044] The underlying problem is also solved by a sensor arrangement comprising a rail, a previously described quick-action clamping device and a rail monitoring element mounted on a rail by means of the quick-action clamping device, wherein the rail neck of the rail and the rail monitoring element are arranged at least partially between the clamping regions of the clamping brackets of two clamping units of the quick-action clamping device; wherein the clamping units each engage around the rail foot of the rail; and wherein a clamping force is produced between the clamping unit, the rail monitoring element and the rail neck along a clamping axis running through the clamping regions.

[0045] According to the sensor arrangement according to the invention, the rail monitoring element is pressed against the rail neck by means of the clamping units of the quick-action clamping device. This enables a damage-free and permanent attachment of the rail monitoring element to the rail, which can be released again if necessary.

[0046] A further advantage of the sensor arrangement according to the invention is that the distance between the clamping units of a quick-action clamping device can be adapted to the rail monitoring element to be fastened, so that rail monitoring elements of different dimensions can be fastened to the rail with the same quick-action clamping device.

[0047] Furthermore, the space between the clamping units of a quick-action clamping device is not blocked by additional components, such as crossbeams, allowing the sensor arrangement to be positioned such that, for example, a rail sleeper is located in the intermediate area between the two clamping units. In other words, the clamping units can be arranged on either side of the rail sleeper in the longitudinal extension of the rail, allowing the rail monitoring element to be attached to the rail neck above the rail sleeper. This increases the flexibility in positioning the rail monitoring element.

[0048] 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 parallel to the clamping axis.

[0049] Preferably, the clamping units of a quick-action clamping device have the same, 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-action clamping device has two identical clamping units.

[0050] The clamping brackets of one clamping unit can be arranged on the rail facing toward the other clamping unit and / or away from it. In other words, the curved sections of the clamping brackets can be curved toward and / or away from each other.

[0051] 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 arranged between the clamping units. In other words, the clamping brackets of the clamping units are directed away from one another, or the curved sections of the clamping brackets of one clamping unit are curved away from the other clamping unit. This allows for the largest possible gap between the clamping units to accommodate the rail sleeper (over-sleeper installation). Due to the curved sections of the clamping brackets directed away from one another, there is an increased distance between the rail sleeper and the clamping axis, which enables generous tool access to the clamping devices of the clamping units.

[0052] 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 clamping unit, or the curved sections of the clamping brackets are curved towards the other clamping unit. This allows the dimensions of the quick-action clamping device to be kept small in the longitudinal direction of the rail. This enables the quick-action clamping device to be arranged between the adjacent rail sleepers (intermediate-shaft installation). Due to the mutually facing curved sections of the clamping brackets, there is an increased distance between the rail sleeper and the clamping axis, which enables generous tool access to the clamping devices of the clamping units.

[0053] The underlying problem is further solved by using the previously described quick-clamping device for arranging a rail monitoring element on a rail neck of a rail above a rail sleeper of the rail. Preferably, parts of the quick-clamping device are pre-assembled / fixed to the respective rail monitoring element before the rail monitoring element is mounted on the rail. This significantly simplifies installation on the rail, and no small parts can be lost.

[0054] Further advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description and the drawings. Likewise, the above-mentioned and further-described features can be used individually or in combination in any desired manner. The embodiments shown and described are not intended to be exhaustive, but rather are exemplary in nature for describing the invention.

[0055] Detailed description of the invention and drawing

[0056] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a sensor arrangement with a rail, a rail monitoring element and a quick-release device in a perspective view.

[0057] Fig. 2 shows the sensor arrangement from Fig. 1 in a side view.

[0058] Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of a sensor arrangement in a side view on a rail with a low rail profile.

[0059] Fig. 4 shows a third embodiment of a sensor arrangement on a rail sleeper in a perspective view in over-sleeper mounting.

[0060] Fig. 5 shows a quick-action clamping device with two clamping units in a perspective view with clamping templates and insulating sleeve.

[0061] Fig. 6 shows a clamping unit of the quick-action clamping device from Fig. 5 with two clamping brackets and a clamping device in a side view without clamping templates and insulating sleeve.

[0062] Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a clamping template for a quick-action clamping device, with a rigid rail stop and a resilient rail stop. Fig. 8 shows another embodiment of a clamping template for a quick-action clamping device, with two rigid rail stops and several securing projections.

[0063] Fig. 1 shows a sensor arrangement 10 comprising a rail 12, a rail monitoring element 14, and a quick-clamping device 16. The rail monitoring element 14 has a first rail contact half 18—here in the form of a transmitting 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 clamped to a rail neck 22 of the rail 12 on both sides of the rail 12 by means of the same quick-clamping device 16.

[0064] The quick-action clamping device 16 has a first clamping unit 24 and a second clamping unit 26. The clamping units 24, 26 are arranged on the rail 12 at a distance from one another along a longitudinal extension 28 of the rail 12. The clamping units 24, 26 are connected to one another via the rail 12 only in the assembled state.

[0065] Each clamping unit 24, 26 has a first clamping bracket 30 and a second clamping bracket 32 ​​(only a second clamping bracket 32 ​​is visible in Fig. 1). The clamping brackets 30, 32 each engage beneath a rail foot 34 of the rail 12. In other words, each clamping unit 24, 26, with the clamping brackets 30, 32, engages around the rail foot 34.

[0066] 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 connected to one another at a first end 36 (see Fig. 6) by a clamping device 38. The clamping devices 38 run below the rail foot 34 and, as shown in Fig. 1, have screw connections, for example. By actuating the clamping devices 38—here, by turning 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 changed along a clamping axis 40. Subsequently, the distance between the clamping bracket 30 and the clamping bracket 32 ​​is also changed along a clamping axis 42. In each case, a clamping axis 42 runs through two clamping areas 44 of a clamping unit 24, 26 (for reasons of clarity, only one clamping area 44 is provided with a reference symbol). The clamping brackets 30, 32 have the clamping areas 44 at a second end 46.Both the rail monitoring element 14 and the rail neck 22 are partially arranged along each clamping axis 42 of the clamping brackets 30, 32. If the distance between the clamping brackets 30, 32 is reduced, for example, by the clamping means 38, a clamping force is created 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.

[0067] According to the embodiment shown, the quick-action clamping device 16 has four clamping templates 48, three of which are visible in Fig. 1. One 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 encompass an end area of ​​the rail monitoring element 14, as shown. The clamping templates 44 are adapted to the profile of the rail 12 and arranged between the rail foot 34 and a rail head 50 of the rail 12 without contacting the rail neck 22. In other words, the freedom of movement of the clamping templates 14 in the vertical direction 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 a clamping position of the rail monitoring element 14 on the rail neck 22 of the rail 12 to be predetermined particularly reliably. Fig. 2 shows the sensor arrangement 10 from Fig. 1 with the rail monitoring element 14, which is attached to the rail 12 by means of the quick-release device 16.

[0068] As shown in Fig. 2, the clamping units 24, 26 are arranged at a distance from one another along the longitudinal extent 28 (see Fig. 1) of the rail 12. The clamping axes 40 of the clamping units 24, 26 have a clamping axis distance 52, and the clamping axes 42 of the clamping units 24, 26 have a clamping axis distance 54. According to the illustrated embodiment, the clamping axis distance 52 is smaller than the clamping axis distance 54. 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 extent 28 of the rail 12 to be kept small.

[0069] In addition, the illustrated sensor arrangement 10 can be moved closer to a colliding object on the rail, e.g. a rail sleeper 56 (see Fig. 4), in the direction of the longitudinal extent 28 of the rail 12, 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.

[0070] A straight line 58, which intersects the tensioning axis 40 and the clamping axis 42 at right angles, runs at an angle 60 obliquely to the longitudinal extension 28 of the rail 12 (for reasons of clarity, only one straight line 58 and one angle 60 are provided with a reference symbol in Fig. 2). By rotating the tensioning units 24, 26 about the respective tensioning axis 40, the vertical position of the rail monitoring element 14 on the rail 12 can be adjusted. For example, a small angle 60 leads to a low vertical position of the rail monitoring element 14 on the rail 12, at which the tensioning axis distance 52 is small and the clamping axis distance 54 is large compared to a medium angle 60. A large angle 60, on the other hand, leads, for example, to a high vertical position of the rail monitoring element 14 on the rail 12, in which the tensioning axis distance 52 is large and the clamping axis distance 54 is small compared to a medium angle 60.The clamping units 24, 26 have a curved section 62 that is curved in a normal plane of the clamping axis 40 of the respective clamping unit 24, 26. In other words, the curved section 62 deviates from the straight line 58 at least in a partial section. The curved section 62 has at least one radius of curvature 64, 66. In the illustrated embodiment of the quick-action clamping device 16, two radii of curvature 64, 66 are provided with reference numerals. The radius of curvature 64 differs in its value from the radius of curvature 66.

[0071] Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the sensor assembly 10 in a side view. The sensor assembly 10 shown in Fig. 3 differs from the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 and 2 essentially in that the clamping units are arranged at a different angle relative to the rail.

[0072] As shown, the rail 12 has a low rail profile, for example, a BS80 profile. In other words, the rail neck 22 of the rail 12 has a small vertical dimension, which complicates a conventional arrangement of the rail monitoring element 14.

[0073] In this case, by rotating the clamping units 24, 26, a small angle 60 can be set—as shown—which reduces the vertical dimension of the quick-action clamping device 16. This allows the rail monitoring element 14 to be attached to the rail 12 with a low rail profile without modifying the components of the quick-action 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.

[0074] Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of the sensor arrangement 10, in which the rail monitoring element 14 is fastened to the rail 12 by means of the quick-action clamping device 16 above a rail sleeper 56. The clamping units 24, 26 of the quick-action 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 or the respective other clamping unit 24, 26. The dimension of the quick-action clamping device 16 in the longitudinal extension 28 of the rail 12 is increased, whereby half the difference between the clamping axis distance 52 and the clamping axis distance 54 is available for tool access to the clamping means 38.

[0075] Fig. 5 shows a quick-action clamping device 16 with two clamping units 24, 26. Each clamping unit 24, 26 has a first clamping bracket 30 and a second clamping bracket 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping unit 24 is essentially identical to the clamping unit 26. In other words, the clamping unit 24 can be rotated about a vertical axis and used as the clamping unit 26.

[0076] The first clamping bracket 30 and the second clamping bracket 32 ​​are connected to one another at their first ends 36 (see Fig. 6) by a clamping means 38 and can be moved toward or away from one another along the clamping axis 40 by the clamping means 38. Accordingly, the clamping regions 44 formed at the second ends 46 of the clamping brackets 30, 32 can be moved toward or away from one another along the clamping axis 42 by the clamping means 38.

[0077] 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). As shown, 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. Furthermore, it can be provided that the clamping unit 24, 26, in particular on each clamping bracket 30, 32, has a centering projection 70 protruding beyond the clamping stop 68 along the clamping axis 42. The centering projection 70 is preferably designed to engage in a complementary recess in the rail monitoring element 14. As a result, the rail monitoring element 14 can be clamped by the clamping units 24, 26 with particularly precise positioning.

[0078] In a particularly general embodiment, at least one clamping template 48 is designed to be movable in at least one direction perpendicular to the clamping axis 42, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal extension 28 of the rail 12 (see Figs. 1, 2, and 4). 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 bracket and shaft during clamping to be compensated.

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

[0080] Each clamping unit 24, 26 has an insulating means 74 in the form of a plastic sleeve covering the first ends 36 (see Fig. 6) of the clamping brackets 30, 32, which electrically insulates the clamping units 24, 26 from the rail foot 34 when the quick-action clamping device 16 is arranged on a rail 12. Such a covering insulating means 74 can prevent contamination of the intermediate area between the first ends 36 of the clamping brackets 30, 32, thereby maintaining functionality. Furthermore, the insulating means 74 can serve as a stop surface for the quick-action clamping device 16 on the rail 12. This, together with the clamping areas 44, allows each clamping unit 24, 26 to be fixed to the rail 12 at three points.According to the embodiment shown, each clamping bracket 30, 32 can have a cylindrical clamping means section 76 that engages beneath the rail foot 34 when the quick-action clamping device 16 is mounted on the rail 12 and is designed to at least partially accommodate the clamping means 38. In other words, the clamping means section 76 is formed predominantly along the clamping means axis 40.

[0081] According to the embodiment shown, each clamping bracket 30, 32 can have a load-optimized clamping section 78 that extends predominantly in a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis 40. A load-optimized structure is understood to mean the design of the clamping section 78 tailored to the intended load case—here, 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, have stiffening ribs 80 formed between the clamping means section 76 and the clamping section 78 to directionally increase the strength of the clamping brackets 30, 32.

[0082] The insulating means 74 can have recesses 82 in the direction of the clamping means axis 40, into which projections—here two stiffening ribs 80—of the respective clamping brackets 30, 32 of the same clamping unit 24, 26 engage and prevent relative rotation of the clamping brackets 30, 32. This can simplify the arrangement of the quick-action clamping device 16 on the rail 12.

[0083] Fig. 6 shows the clamping unit 24, 26 of the quick-action clamping device 16 from Fig. 5 with the first clamping bracket 30 and the second clamping bracket 32, but without the clamping templates 48 and the insulating means 72, 74. The clamping brackets 30, 32 each have the first end 36 and the second end 46. The first ends 36 are connected by the clamping means 38 such that the clamping brackets 30, 32 can be moved towards one another along the clamping axis 40. For this purpose, the clamping means 38 can, as shown, have a cylindrical sliding body 84 which can be inserted into recesses in the clamping brackets 30, 32 formed at the first ends 36 along the clamping axis 40 and on which the clamping brackets 30, 32 are movably arranged along the clamping axis 40. The cylindrical sliding body 84 can also have threaded recesses at both ends into which a screw 86 can be screwed.By turning the screws 86, the maximum distance between the clamping brackets 30, 32 along the clamping axis 40 can be adjusted.

[0084] The clamping bracket 30 is essentially mirror-symmetrical to the clamping bracket 32. However, the clamping bracket 30 has a support projection 88 extending along the clamping axis 40 beyond the cylindrical clamping element section 76. 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 accommodate 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.

[0085] Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of a clamping template 48. The clamping template 48 has a base body 90 with a U-shaped or C-shaped cross-section. The base body 90 can, for example, be produced from a plastic using a plastic injection molding process. The clamping template 48 has a fastening insert 92 arranged in the base body 90. The fastening insert 92 is preferably made of metal. More preferably, the fastening insert 92 is overmolded with plastic during the manufacture of the base body 90 and is permanently connected to the base body 90. The clamping template 48 can, for example, be pushed onto the centering projection 70 (see Fig. 5) of the clamping brackets 30, 32. The fastening insert 92 preferably forms the clamping stop 68 (see Fig. 5).

[0086] The inner surfaces 94 of the base body 90 are designed to partially accommodate the rail monitoring element 14 (see Figs. 1-4) and are adapted to the outer contour of the part of the rail monitoring element 14 to be accommodated.

[0087] According to the embodiment shown, the clamping template 48 or the base body 90 further comprises a rigid rail stop 96 and a resilient rail stop 98. When the clamping template 48 is attached to the rail 12, the rail stops 96, 98 rest against the rail foot 34 and the rail head 50. 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 resilient rail stop 98 allows the clamping template 48 to be used particularly easily on rail profiles that differ only slightly.

[0088] The resilient rail stop 98 can be formed integrally on the clamping template 48.

[0089] In a particular embodiment, the resilient rail stop 98 is made of a metallic material, in particular spring steel. Typically, the resilient rail stop 98 is arranged on the clamping template 48 in this case.

[0090] Fig. 8 shows a further embodiment of a clamping template 48. The clamping template 48 shown in Fig. 8 has two rigid rail stops 96.

[0091] In addition, the clamping template 48 has a plurality of - here four - securing projections 100 formed on the base body 90, which, when the clamping template 48 is 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.

[0092] In a particular embodiment, the second end 46 of at least one clamping bracket 30, 32 may have at least one locking projection 100 that engages a recess in the clamping template 48 to prevent rotation. The recess is preferably formed as an elongated hole.

[0093] List of reference symbols

[0094] 10 Sensor arrangement;

[0095] 12 rail;

[0096] 14 rail monitoring element;

[0097] 16 quick release device;

[0098] 18 first rail contact half;

[0099] 20 second rail contact half;

[0100] 22 rail neck of rail 12;

[0101] 24 first clamping unit;

[0102] 26 second clamping unit;

[0103] 28 Longitudinal extension of the rail 12;

[0104] 30 first clamping bracket;

[0105] 32 second clamping bracket;

[0106] 34 Rail foot of rail 12;

[0107] 36 first end of the clamping brackets 30, 32;

[0108] 38 clamping devices;

[0109] 40 clamping axle;

[0110] 42 clamping axis;

[0111] 44 clamping range,

[0112] 46 second end of the clamping brackets 30, 32;

[0113] 48 clamping template;

[0114] 50 rail head of rail 12;

[0115] 52 clamping axis distance;

[0116] 54 clamping axis distance;

[0117] 56 rail sleeper;

[0118] 58 straight;

[0119] 60 angles;

[0120] 62 Curvature section; 64 Radius of the curvature section 62;

[0121] 66 Radius of the curved section 62;

[0122] 68 clamp stop;

[0123] 70 centering projection;

[0124] 72 insulating materials;

[0125] 74 insulating materials;

[0126] 76 clamping device section;

[0127] 78 clamping section;

[0128] 80 stiffening rib;

[0129] 82 recesses on the insulating means 74;

[0130] 84 sliding bodies;

[0131] 86 screw;

[0132] 88 support projection;

[0133] 90 Base body of the clamping template 48;

[0134] 92 Fastening insert of the clamping template 48;

[0135] 94 Inner surface of the clamping template 48;

[0136] 96 rigid rail stop;

[0137] 98 spring-loaded rail stop;

[0138] 100 safety projections.

[0139] Bibliography

[0140]

[0001] EP 3 420 134 B1 (Siemens Mobility GmbH)

Claims

Claims: Quick-release clamping device (16) for fastening at least one rail monitoring element (14) to a rail (12) comprising two clamping units (24, 26); wherein the clamping units (24, 26) each comprise two clamping brackets (30, 32) and a clamping means (38); wherein the two clamping brackets (30, 32) can be connected at a first end (36) by the clamping means (38) along a clamping axis (40) such that the clamping means (38) engages the rail foot (34) of the rail (12) when fastened to the rail (12), and wherein the clamping brackets (30, 32) each have a clamping area (44) at a second end (46) which is designed for frictional engagement with a rail neck (22) of the rail (12) and / or the rail monitoring element (14); characterized in that the clamping units (24, 26) can be arranged as separate elements along a longitudinal extension (28) of the rail (12) spaced apart from each other on the rail (12);and the clamping brackets (30, 32) each have at least one curved section (62) which is curved in a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis (40). Quick-release clamping device (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that the clamping brackets (30, 32) of a clamping unit (24, 26) are designed symmetrically to a plane orthogonal to the clamping axis (40). Quick-release clamping device (16) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the clamping means (38) is designed as a screw connection, wherein the screw connection extends through the clamping brackets (30, 32) of a clamping unit (24, 26).

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

5. Quick-release clamping device (16) according to 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-release clamping device from the rail, wherein the insulating means (72, 74) is preferably designed as an insulating sleeve.

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

8. Quick-release clamping device (16) according to claim 7, characterized in that a clamping template (48) is attached to the second end (46) of a clamping bracket (30, 32), preferably the clamping templates (48) can be attached to the clamping area (44) of the clamping brackets (30, 32).

9. Quick-release clamping device (16) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the clamping templates (48) have at least one element, in particular a locking projection 100 or a locking recess, which in conjunction with the clamping bracket (30, 32) limits, in particular prevents, a positive locking rotation of the clamping template (48) relative to the clamping bracket (30, 32). Quick-release clamping device (16) according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the clamping template (48) is designed for at least partial receiving, in particular fixing, of the rail monitoring element (24).Sensor arrangement (10) comprising a rail (10), a quick-release clamping device (16) according to one of the preceding claims and a rail monitoring element (14) mounted on the rail (12) by means of the quick-release clamping device (16), wherein the rail neck (22) of the rail (12) and the rail monitoring element (14) are arranged at least partially between the clamping areas (44) of the clamping brackets (30, 32) of two clamping units (30, 32) of the quick-release clamping device (16); wherein the clamping units (24, 26) each engage the rail foot (34) of the rail (12); and wherein a clamping force is exerted along a clamping axis (42) extending through the clamping areas (44) between the respective clamping unit (24, 26), the rail monitoring element (14) and the rail neck (22).Sensor arrangement (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the clamping axis distance (52) between the clamping axes (40) is greater than the clamping axis distance (54) between the clamping axes (42) of the clamping units (24, 26), and a rail sleeper (56) is arranged between the clamping units (24, 26). Sensor arrangement (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the clamping axis distance (52) between the clamping axes (40) is less than the clamping axis distance (54) between the clamping axes (42) of the clamping units (24, 26), and the clamping units (24, 26) are arranged between two rail sleepers (56). Use of the quick-release clamping device (16) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, for arranging a rail monitoring element (14) on a rail neck (22) of a rail (12) above a rail sleeper (56) of the rail (12). Use according to claim 14, characterized in that the parts of the quick-release clamping device are pre-assembled / fixed to the respective rail monitoring element before the rail monitoring element is mounted on the rail.

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