Line guiding device and supporting chain for clean-room applications

Abstract

The invention relates to a line guiding device (1) comprising a flexible sheath (8) and a supporting chain (10), and to the supporting chain per se. According to the invention, the supporting chain (10) consists of alternatingly successive chain links (20) and articulated connectors (30) which each comprise a deformable region (32) and each hold together two adjacent chain links (20) which are pivotable with respect to one another. The chain links (20) and / or the articulated connectors (30) are interconnectable and releasable from one another in a joining direction that is different from the longitudinal direction. The invention also relates to a supporting chain (10) consisting of chain links (20) which are interconnected in order to transmit tensile and / or compressive forces. According to the invention, a rear lower part (202B) of a first adjacent chain link (20') can be inserted into a front space (241) between the front upper part (201A) and lower part (201B) of the relevant chain link (20), and a front upper part (201A) of a second adjacent chain link (20'') can be inserted into a rear space (242) between the rear upper part (202A) and lower part (202B) of the relevant chain link (20).

Description

[0001] CABLE GUIDE DEVICE AND SUPPORT CHAIN ​​FOR CLEANROOM APPLICATIONS

[0002] The invention generally relates to a cable guiding device, in particular for clean room applications, for the protected dynamic guiding of supply lines such as cables, hoses or the like in a longitudinal direction between two connection points, at least one of which is movable relative to the other. Such dynamic or active cable guiding devices protect the lines against unwanted stresses during movement, usually between a stationary connection and a movable consumer, e.g. on a machine. They can typically be moved back and forth linearly or in a plane of movement along the longitudinal direction and typically form two strands that are essentially elongated in the longitudinal direction of the guide and a deflection bend between them. The deflection bend is typically bent in an approximately U-shape around a deflection axis that runs in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal direction.Thus, the deflection bend is approximately U-shaped in a plane containing the longitudinal and vertical directions. When in its intended, operational state, the cable guide device is folded into the deflection bend, allowing one of the strands to pass into the deflection bend and thus into the other strand.

[0003] The invention also relates in particular to a support chain as such for such a cable guiding device.

[0004] The invention specifically relates to a cable routing device intended for cleanroom applications, comprising a flexible sheathing, which, for dust-protective enclosing of supply lines, comprises a number of adjacent and longitudinally extending receiving channels, each of which typically accommodates at least one supply line. The sheathing is intended, in particular, to prevent abrasion of the lines, which inevitably occurs during travel, from being released into the environment. Furthermore, a sheath made of a suitable material can improve overall abrasion resistance.

[0005] For stabilization or for longer lengths, so-called support chains are used to support the cable routing, especially in the extended position of a cantilevered or non-supporting strand. The support chain can be arranged in a receiving channel instead of a cable and can assume extended positions to form the strands or an arcuate position to form a deflection curve. The support chain also determines the desired radius.

[0006] Depending on the load weight, for example, two support chains are installed on the outside of a sheath. Multi-layer structures are also known, in which more than two support chains are installed in the sheath of a supporting layer, or even layers without any cables at all, i.e., with only support chains in the sheath of a layer.

[0007] Such a cable guide device with support chains was proposed, for example, in WO 2021 / 116467 A1. A generic support chain of this type comprises a plurality of chain links that are connected or can be connected to one another in a hinged manner in the longitudinal direction. Two adjacent or consecutive chain links are connected by a hinged connection so that they can pivot relative to one another in or against a bending direction.

[0008] The two chain links are designed to be pivotable relative to each other between a stretched and an angled position in the plane containing the longitudinal and vertical directions. This means that the support chain can be moved, forming two essentially longitudinally stretched runs and a deflection bend connecting the runs. The deflection bend is usually essentially U-shaped in the plane containing the longitudinal and vertical directions. Such support chains ensure in particular that a certain radius is maintained in the deflection bend, i.e. the cables are protected against kinking. In addition, the usable length is increased because the support chains enable greater unsupported lengths, usually of the upper run.To enable such a support chain to be used instead of a cable in the enclosure, it typically has particularly compact dimensions, at least in cross-section, especially compared to conventional energy chains. A support chain of this type therefore typically and preferably does not have a channel for cables.

[0009] The articulated connection in WO 2021 / 116467 A1 is designed as a pin / receiver swivel joint, with each chain link having two pivot pins projecting in the transverse direction and two complementary pivot receptacles in which the pivot pins are rotatably received. A disadvantage of this is that the friction between the respective pivot pin and the pivot receptacle releases particles during operation, which is particularly undesirable in clean rooms. As mentioned above, the support chains, as well as the guided supply lines, are used in enclosures. Support chains can wear out sooner than the supply lines, which requires either replacing the entire enclosure, opening the enclosure and replacing the support chain, or providing a separate enclosure unit specifically for the support chain. Thus, there is a need to increase the service life of the support chains.A weak point of known support chains can be the joint connections, which, for example in the case of a bolt / receiver swivel joint, are exposed to considerable shear forces and alternating stresses when moving back and forth.

[0010] The chain links according to WO 2021 116467 A1 each have a front longitudinal section and a rear longitudinal section in the longitudinal direction. Both longitudinal sections are suitably designed to connect the chain links to one another in a predetermined manner, in particular in such a way that a predetermined geometry of the deflection curve is maintained.

[0011] The chain link according to WO 2021 116467 A1 has, in the rear longitudinal section, a free space between two side parts, into which the front longitudinal section of a further, rear or adjacent chain link following thereafter in the support chain can be inserted along the longitudinal direction, and two recesses spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction - one on an upper side of the chain link, i.e. on the side lying outside in the deflection bend, and one on an underside, i.e. on the side lying inside in the deflection bend. The front longitudinal section has two projections projecting in the vertical direction for interacting with the transverse connections. When the chain links are plugged together, the lower projection projects into the lower recess when the two chain links are in the extended position, and the upper projection projects into the upper recess when the two chain links are in the completely angled position.

[0012] However, in a support chain design according to the teaching of WO 2021 116467 A1, there is a position of the two chain links relative to each other between the straight position and the completely angled position in which none of the projections interact with a recess or there is only a very small common effective area. In such a position, the chain links can become separated from each other along the longitudinal direction or breakage can occur due to excessive loading.

[0013] During the intended process, the support chains are subjected in particular to tensile and compressive stresses along the longitudinal direction. Thus, according to WO 2021 116467 A1, in the aforementioned intermediate position, the transmission of the tensile force is only possible through the pin / hole joint connection. The joint pin in particular is subjected to shear stress. This reduces the maximum service life of the support chain or requires an undesirably voluminous design. One object of the present invention is therefore to propose a cable guide device with a support chain or the support chain therefor, which is more robust and better suited to transmitting tensile and compressive forces and has a longer service life, while at the same time being as compact as possible, particularly in the cross-section of the chain links. This object is achieved by a cable guide device or a support chain according to claim 1 or.2 and independently thereof by a support chain according to independent claim 7.

[0014] FIRST ASPECT

[0015] According to an independent first aspect, in a generic cable guide device according to the preamble of claim 1 or in a support chain according to the preamble of claim 2, the above-mentioned object is already achieved in that the support chain consists, at least in one longitudinal section, of a strand which has chain links and articulated connectors alternating one after the other in the longitudinal direction, wherein the articulated connectors each comprise a deformable region which is in particular elastically deformable in a bending direction, wherein the articulated connectors each hold two adjacent chain links to one another, in particular in the longitudinal direction.

[0016] The joint connectors or joint elements with a flexible or deformable area make it possible, among other things, to avoid a bolt-receiving joint connection typical of link chains and the associated abrasion.

[0017] The chain links can be pivoted relative to one another in or against the bending direction, in particular between a stretched and a bent position of the two adjacent, connected chain links relative to one another.

[0018] Furthermore, according to the first aspect, it can be provided in particular that at least some of the chain links and / or articulated connectors of the strand can be connected to one another and / or detached from one another in a joining direction different from the longitudinal direction, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Thus, under normal operating conditions, the connection between the links, in particular the articulated connection, cannot be separated or detached without causing damage by a tensile force acting in the longitudinal direction. Such a connection is more robust, and the service life of the support chain is thus increased.

[0019] Particularly preferred is a design such that when two adjacent chain links connected by a joint connector pivot between a straight and an angled position, the joint connectors or joint elements are subjected to bending as intended. The joint connectors or joint elements have a flexurally elastic design, at least in the deformable region.

[0020] The articulated connectors or articulated elements can in particular be designed as separate, distinct components which can be connected to the chain links in a detachable or non-destructive manner. However, an alternative design is also conceivable in which the articulated connectors or articulated elements are one-piece components of the chain links, e.g. are molded onto the chain links using two-component injection molding. Preferably, at least one end region of each articulated connector can be detachably connected to an adjacent chain link. However, it is also conceivable for the chain links to be formed by joining two separate components, each of which comprises a articulated connector manufactured as a single piece. In this case, too, the joining direction of the link components is preferably different from the longitudinal direction and can, for example, correspond to the transverse direction.

[0021] The respective chain link can have two outer side surfaces that are spaced apart from one another in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and facing away from one another, which delimit the chain link in the transverse direction. In this case, the chain link is designed with a continuous cross-section at least in regions between the outer side surfaces or, at least in regions, as a solid body in cross-section. A design in which the joining direction, at least between the articulated connectors and the chain links, runs essentially in the transverse direction is particularly preferred.

[0022] In one embodiment, it is provided that the strand is designed as a concatenation of a plurality of alternately interconnected chain links and separate articulated connectors, which are designed as separate components, wherein each of the plurality of articulated connectors is preferably detachably connected to two adjacent chain links.

[0023] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the chain links are designed according to the following independent second aspect of the invention, the preferred features of which are also applicable to the first aspect and vice versa.

[0024] Further preferred design features for both aspects arise from the relevant subclaims.

[0025] SECOND ASPECT

[0026] Alternatively or in addition to the first aspect, the above-mentioned object is achieved according to an independent second aspect in that in a support chain, in particular according to the preamble of claim 7, it is provided that the front upper part and the front lower part of the respective chain link are spaced from one another by a front free space in a height direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, into which the rear lower part of a first adjacent chain link can be inserted or is inserted, and that the rear upper part and the rear lower part of the respective chain link are spaced from one another by a rear free space in the height direction, into which the front upper part of a second adjacent chain link can be inserted or is inserted.

[0027] This allows, in particular, a robust design of the connection of the chain links in the longitudinal direction, in which, in every relative position of the bend, intended tensile and compressive forces are transmitted at least predominantly via the chain links themselves, so that, in particular, preferably provided articulated connectors according to the first aspect are not stressed or are only slightly stressed. The second aspect also preferably provides that at least some of the chain links can be connected to one another and / or detached from one another in a joining direction that is different from the longitudinal direction, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, wherein the joining direction preferably runs substantially in the transverse direction and / or the vertical direction. The joining direction of the links to one another particularly preferably has no relevant component in the longitudinal direction, so that unintentional loosening during operation can be reliably avoided.

[0028] In the second aspect, the articulated connectors according to the first aspect are preferably used, ie, the support chain preferably comprises a plurality of articulated connectors, which are preferably designed as separate components. The articulated connectors have, in particular, elastically deformable regions in the direction of the bending of the chain links. Each of the plurality of articulated connectors is particularly preferably detachably connectable to two adjacent chain links.

[0029] In an advantageous development of the second aspect, it is provided that the front upper part has an upper projection protruding in the vertical direction and the rear upper part has an upper recess; and the rear lower part has a lower projection protruding in the vertical direction and the front lower part has a lower recess. In particular, it is further provided that the upper projection of the respective chain link is designed to engage in the upper recess of the first adjacent chain link, both in the extended and in the angled position, and the lower projection of the respective chain link is designed to engage in the lower recess of the second adjacent chain link, both in the extended and in the angled position. As a result, both tensile and compressive forces can be transmitted through the interaction of the projections and recesses in the extended and in the angled position.

[0030] It is preferably further provided that the upper projection is designed to engage in the upper recess from the rear free space of one adjacent chain link towards the top side thereof and the lower projection is designed to engage in the lower recess from the front free space of the other adjacent chain link towards the bottom side thereof, particularly preferably wherein the clear height of the front free space is equal to or greater than the dimension of the rear lower part including the lower projection in the height direction and the clear height of the rear free space is equal to or greater than the dimension of the front upper part including the upper projection in the height direction. As a result, the projections can be introduced or engaged in the corresponding recesses by joining the chain links in the transverse direction Q or in the longitudinal direction L and sliding them against one another in the height direction H.This can be achieved without bending or twisting the chain links and thus also allows easy assembly of the support chain and easy replacement of individual sections when required, e.g. for preventive maintenance.

[0031] Preferably, the links are designed such that the upper recess forms an opening extending from the rear free space to the upper side, and / or the lower recess forms an opening extending from the front free space to the underside. This allows, among other things, a maximum stop surface to be provided.

[0032] It can further advantageously be provided that the upper projection, the lower projection, the upper recess and the lower recess of the respective chain link each have a contact surface for absorbing pressure and / or tensile force against a corresponding counter-contact surface of an adjacent chain link in the extended position and a contact surface for absorbing pressure and / or tensile force against a corresponding counter-contact surface of an adjacent chain link in the angled position, wherein each of the stop surfaces preferably runs transversely to the longitudinal direction.

[0033] All contact surfaces preferably extend perpendicular to the travel plane, i.e., parallel to the transverse direction, so that transverse forces are avoided. In the angled and extended relative positions, at least two pairs of stop surfaces preferably cooperate to transmit forces, with the pairs being diametrically opposite each other with respect to the center of the link in the longitudinal section.

[0034] Advantageously, the contact surfaces of the upper projection or the contact surfaces of the lower projection are at a respective angle to one another, and the contact surfaces of the upper recess or the contact surfaces of the lower recess are at a respective angle to one another, wherein the difference in the angular dimension between the angles of the upper projection and the upper recess and the difference in the angular dimension between the angles of the lower projection and the lower recess are preferably substantially the same or equal. By appropriately designing the angles, a simultaneous pairwise interaction of several stops is ensured, thus increasing the force-transmitting area overall.

[0035] In a further development, it is advantageously provided that the upper projection, in the angled position, is flush with the upper side of the chain link, into whose upper recess it engages, and / or the lower projection, in the extended position, is flush with the underside of the chain link, into whose lower recess it engages. Overall, projection-free, flush outer surfaces are to be achieved in every operating position to prevent damage or wear to the casing.

[0036] A further enlargement of the surfaces for force transmission is achieved if the respective chain link has front-side contact surfaces on the front and rear upper part and on the front and rear lower part, which are designed such that front-side contact surfaces of the front and rear upper part in the extended position rest against the front-side contact surfaces of the front and rear upper part of the adjacent chain link, and front-side contact surfaces of the front and rear lower part in an angled position rest against the front-side contact surfaces of the adjacent chain link.

[0037] Preferably, both the front and rear spaces are open or open into each of the outer side surfaces, thus providing access for the insertion of the rear lower section or the front upper section and / or a joint connector. This facilitates and simplifies assembly and maintenance work.

[0038] It is advantageous for force flow and / or mechanical conditions if the dimension of the respective joint connector in the transverse direction is more than 30%, in particular between 50% and 100%, of the distance between the outer side surfaces of the respective chain link. Preferably, the width of the joint connector is essentially equal to this distance. Furthermore, it is favorable for force flow if the respective joint connector extends, with respect to the transverse direction, in a central region between the outer side surfaces of the chain links or is centered on the center, so that no transverse forces can arise.

[0039] In a particularly robust embodiment, each articulated connector extends, with respect to a vertical direction, at least partially between the front upper part and the front lower part of one of the two adjacent chain links and the rear upper part and the rear lower part of the other of the two adjacent chain links. As a result, the articulated connector simultaneously forms a locking mechanism to prevent the chain links from disengaging from their engagement. The articulated connector can preferably prevent any two adjacent chain links from shifting relative to each other in the vertical direction by the associated articulated connector, e.g., by blocking the necessary freedom of movement.

[0040] OTHER ADVANTAGEOUS FEATURES (OF BOTH ASPECTS)

[0041] Below, some preferred developments are discussed which, like the above features, are considered advantageous for both core aspects of the invention. The articulated connectors are preferably designed as spring elements which, when adjacent chain links are bent, exert elastic restoring forces on these chain links, causing them to at least partially return to their original position in the opposite direction to the direction of the bend. This dampens vibrations during the movement of the support chain and, if applicable, the cable guide as a whole.

[0042] Preferably, the length of the elastically deformable region of each or the respective articulated connector in the longitudinal direction is a multiple of the thickness of the respective articulated connector in the height direction.

[0043] Particularly for the releasable fastening of separate articulated connectors, it is advantageous if each articulated connector has two fastening areas spaced apart in the longitudinal direction and is secured to each of the two adjacent chain links by one of the fastening areas, preventing displacement in the longitudinal direction. The articulated connector can be designed such that, with respect to the longitudinal direction, at least two areas of the articulated connector are provided between the fastening areas, each with at least one different property selected from the group of cross-section, material thickness, and modulus of elasticity.

[0044] Preferably, each or the respective chain link has two fastening receptacles for positive and / or non-positive engagement with a respective fastening area of ​​the joint connector. Each fastening receptacle can preferably be formed between the front upper part and the front lower part or the rear upper part and the rear lower part of the respective chain link, and / or the respective fastening receptacle can open into at least one of the side surfaces of the chain link, preferably open on both sides, or be openly accessible.

[0045] Preferably, the joint connector can be inserted, in particular pressed, in the transverse direction from either side into the fastening receptacles of two adjacent chain links, so that assembly is particularly easy.

[0046] Advantageously, the respective fastening receptacle is arranged in a central region between the upper side and the underside in terms of height. Preferably, the fastening receptacle is at a substantially equal distance from the upper side and the underside.

[0047] To further prevent abrasion, it is advantageous if the respective chain link has clamping surfaces at the respective fastening receptacle, particularly at the transition from the fastening receptacle to the front or rear free space, which are spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction and face one another. These are designed to non-positively hold a fastening area of ​​the associated articulated connector and act to prevent movement of the fastening area relative to the corresponding fastening receptacle, for example, to prevent displacement in the transverse direction and / or to prevent rotation in the fastening receptacle. In this case, the respective articulated connector can preferably have thickened portions on the fastening areas to interact with the clamping surfaces.

[0048] In particular, to secure the position of mounted joint connectors or joint elements in the transverse direction, it can advantageously be provided that the respective joint connector has locking means in the fastening areas, which are designed to interact with complementary counter-locking means of the associated chain links.

[0049] Preferably, all or at least some of the articulated connectors are designed as substantially plate-like components or as components curved in the plane in which the longitudinal direction and the height direction lie.

[0050] The joint connectors are preferably made of a permanently flexurally strong plastic that is elastic relative to the chain links. The joint connectors and the chain links are preferably made of different materials.

[0051] To avoid transverse forces during operation, each chain link and / or each articulated connector consists of a body that is mirror-symmetrical to its longitudinal center plane.

[0052] Each chain link can preferably consist of a block body, preferably of a one-piece block body, ie a body without completely internal cavities, in particular without a through opening in the longitudinal direction, apart from weight-reducing tapers and openings.

[0053] The two essential or only components of the support chain, ie the chain links and the joint connectors, can each be manufactured inexpensively, in particular as separate components, from plastic, in particular by injection molding.

[0054] The chain links and joint connectors can, in particular, be manufactured as separate, separate components that are detachably connected to one another. To link the strand that forms the support chain, each joint connector is preferably detachably connectable to at least one of the two chain links of an adjacent pair. However, a detachable connection within the chain links is also conceivable, particularly as a variant according to the first aspect. However, a design of the support chain with a plurality of separate joint elements or joint connectors is preferred, which are designed as separate components and each have two end regions for detachably connecting to chain links and at least one deformable region between them.

[0055] The proposed support chain, both according to the first and second aspect, is particularly suitable for use in a cable guide device for clean room applications.

[0056] Further details and advantages of the individual aspects of the invention can be found, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in the following explanation of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Features with corresponding or identical structure or function have corresponding reference numerals and may not be described repeatedly. They show:

[0057] FIG.l: in perspective view, a cable guide device for clean room applications, here with two sheaths, in a purely exemplary operating position with an extended self-supporting upper run, an extended stationary lower run and a deflection bend in between;

[0058] FIG.2: a cross-section (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of an exemplary multi-layer structure with a number of stacked sheaths for a plurality of lines, wherein support chains are accommodated in receiving channels of some sheaths;

[0059] FIG.3: a side view of a support chain according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0060] FIG.4: Construction views of a single chain link of a support chain according to FIG.3 in side view (A), bottom view (B), top view (C), front view (D), rear view (E) and in longitudinal section (F);

[0061] FIG.5A-5B: Perspective views of the chain link according to FIG.4;

[0062] FIG.6: a longitudinal section of a partial length of the support chain made of chain links according to FIG.3-5, in extended position (left in FIG.6) and fully bent position (right in FIG.6), and

[0063] FIG.7: Construction views of an individual joint element according to an embodiment in side view (A), top view (B), and in perspective view (C), for a support chain according to FIG.3-5.

[0064] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary cable routing device 1 which guides supply lines 3 (FIG. 2) between a fixed connection point 2 on a base and a movable connection point 4 on a movable driver. The driver is not shown in detail and can typically be moved back and forth linearly along the longitudinal direction L. The supply lines 3 are cables, hoses or the like and supply the moving part of a machine, for example, with power, signals and / or operating media. FIG. 1 shows a snapshot of the cable routing arrangement 1 with a self-supporting, elongated upper run 5, a lower run 6 which may be resting on a support, and a deflection bend 7. The deflection bend 7 has a predetermined bending radius or deflection radius around an imaginary deflection axis U. During operation, the deflection bend 7 moves back and forth relative to the fixed connection point 2 when the upper run 5 with the movable connection point 4 moves back and forth in the longitudinal direction L.

[0065] The cable routing device 1 is particularly suitable and intended for clean rooms or other applications in which the release of particles is to be reduced or avoided. For this purpose, it comprises one or more flexible sheaths 8 made of soft-elastic plastic extending in the longitudinal direction L, which enclose the supply lines 3 in a dust-tight manner along their entire length between the connection points 2 and 4. The ends of each sheath 8 and of the lines 3 are attached to the connection points 2, 4, e.g., with end fastening devices 11 or end connections.

[0066] According to FIG.2, each sheath 8 has a number of tubular receiving channels 9 for guiding at least one or more supply lines 3. Each sheath 8 is overall hose-like and sufficiently flexible, inter alia through suitable design and / or choice of material, to allow a reversibly flexible curvature of the deflection bend 7 with little effort and to follow the movement in the longitudinal direction L with the least possible resistance.

[0067] The cable guiding device 1 further comprises a number of support chains 10 which extend along the entire length of the cable guiding arrangement 1 from the connection point 2 to the connection point 4. In the purely exemplary arrangement according to FIG. 2, a multi-layer structure with several stacked layers of sheaths 8 with cables 3 is shown. In this case, an inner support layer facing the deflection bend 7 is provided, in which support chains 10 are provided in all receiving channels 9 of the sheath(s) 8, i.e. this inner support layer does not guide any cables 3. Additional support chains 10 can also be arranged in further layers, e.g. laterally on the outside, in the sheath(s) 8 for stabilization against transverse forces, cf. FIG. 2. The covering 8 can comprise several separate covering units which are detachably connected to one another in the transverse direction, for example by fastening profiles or fastening straps 13 extending in the longitudinal direction L, as shown for example in FIG.2.The respective sheath unit can, for example, have only one receiving channel 9 in which a support chain 10 is received, and can be connected to other sheath units by means of the fastening profiles or fastening straps 13. This allows individual support chains 10 to be replaced as needed. With regard to the design of the sheath 8, the teaching of WO 2020 / 148300 A1 is incorporated by reference. WO 2020 / 148300 A1, for example, describes sheath units with only one receiving channel and with fastening profiles or fastening straps for connecting the sheath units, with reference to FIGS. 9D, 10C, 10D, 13A-C, and 18A, 18B.

[0068] A core function of the support chains 10 is to specify the radius of curvature of the deflection bend 7 or to limit its minimum radius around the deflection axis U. A further core function of each support chain 10 is to support the unsupported length of the upper run 5 or to enable a sufficiently unsupported length, particularly in the fully extended position of the carrier (not shown in FIG. 1). Each support chain 10 supports the casing 8, particularly against sagging due to gravity in the vertical direction H, or has a load-bearing effect. Depending on the load weight and length of the cable guide device 1, a sufficient number of support chains 10 is provided.

[0069] With reference to FIGS.3-7, an embodiment of a support chain 10 according to the invention is described in more detail below.

[0070] FIG.3 shows a support chain 10 according to the invention in a designated position, namely folded around the deflection axis U, the support chain 10 forming two strands, an upper strand 5 and a lower strand 6, which extend in the longitudinal direction L, and a deflection bend 7. The deflection bend 7 is essentially U-shaped in the plane of FIG.3, in which the longitudinal direction L and the vertical direction H lie. The design of the support chain 10 determines the shape of the deflection bend 7 and of the entire cable guide device 1. The deflection axis U runs perpendicular to the plane of FIG.3, i.e. in the transverse direction Q perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and perpendicular to the vertical direction H. The support chain 10 is designed to support a self-supporting upper strand 5, i.e. the strands 5, 6 remain spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction H over the entire travel path.

[0071] The support chain 10 is designed as a type of link chain and consists of exactly one strand 12, which comprises a plurality of individual chain links 20, which are detachably connected to one another in pairs by means of a respective articulated connection. Due to the articulated connection, adjacent chain links 20, 20' of each pair can be bent relative to one another in a bending direction over a limited angle, e.g., approximately 5-20°. The chain links 20, 20' can be pivoted relative to one another between an extended position (such as within the strands 5, 6) and an angled position (such as within the deflection bend 7), which allows the support chain 10 to be folded while maintaining a minimum permissible or possible radius of the deflection bend 7.

[0072] Each articulated connection comprises an articulated connector 30, which releasably connects two adjacent chain links 20, 20', or two consecutive ones in the longitudinal direction L, and is explained in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 7A-7C. For each pair of adjacent chain links 20, 20', in the example shown, exactly one separate articulated connector 30 is provided, which is releasably connected at one of its ends to one chain link 20 and at the other end to the other chain link 20'. Each chain link 20 within the strand 12 is in turn connected to a respective articulated connector 30 on both sides or at both end regions of its longitudinal direction.

[0073] Thus, chain links 20 and articulated connectors 30 alternate in the longitudinal direction within the strand 12. The respective articulated connector 30 comprises a deformable central region 32, which is elastically deformable under the influence of a bending force acting on the articulated connector 30 during the movement of the cable guide device 1 or the support chain 10. The deformable region 32 is equally elastically deformable in the bending direction or against the bending direction of the associated adjacent chain links 20, 20'.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 3-5, the adjacent chain links 20, 20' are designed to be interlaced and inserted into one another in such a way that the chain links 20, 20' themselves contribute to the respective articulated connection through their shape and influence the degrees of freedom of mutual pivoting. The chain links 20 interact with each other and with the articulated connectors 30 in such a way that the strands 5, 6 remain stretched in the longitudinal direction L and do not sag downwards, and that the desired radius of the deflection curve 7 is achieved and cannot be undercut. In the example shown, all chain links 20 of the support chain 10 are designed identically, and all articulated connectors 30 are designed identically, so that the support chain 10 can be manufactured from only two essential components.

[0075] FIGS. 4-5 show a preferred embodiment of a single chain link 20, which combines two core aspects of the invention. FIG. 6 shows a partial length of a support chain 10 in longitudinal section, illustrating the extended and angled positions of two chain eyelets 20. Not shown in FIG. 6 is a likewise possible or advantageous pretensioning of the support chain 10 in its extended position. Reference is made below to FIG. 3 and FIGS. 4 to 6 to explain the design of the chain link 20.

[0076] The chain link 20 is preferably designed as a single piece or one-part unit and, in particular, is manufactured from a single plastic material using an injection molding process. However, it can also be assembled from multiple parts. The chain link 20 is designed as a block, with a top side 204A, a bottom side 204B, two outer side surfaces 23, and a front and a rear end face 231, 232. The dimensions of the

[0077] Chain link 20 in the transverse direction Q, ie the width of the

[0078] Chain link 20, has approximately the same order of magnitude as the dimension in the height direction H, i.e. the height or the thickness of the chain link 20. The width of the chain link 20 can also be greater than its height in order to further reduce the torsion about the longitudinal direction L. The dimension in the longitudinal direction L, i.e. the length of the chain link, is in the example shown at least twice as large as the width and / or twice as large as the height. The selected length depends on the desired chain pitch. The upper side 204A is the outer side of the chain link 20, which in a intended position of the chain link 20 within the support chain 10 is arranged on the outside side of the chain link 20 with respect to the deflection bend 7, i.e. on the side facing away from the deflection axis U or the opposite strand (cf. FIG. 3).The underside 204B is accordingly the outer side of the chain link 20, which in a designated position of the chain link 20 within the support chain 10 is arranged on the inside side of the chain link 20 with respect to the deflection bend 7, i.e. on the side facing the deflection axis U or the opposite run (cf. FIG. 3). The outer side surfaces 23 of the chain link 20 are the outer surfaces of the chain link 20 which delimit the respective chain link 20 in the transverse direction Q, i.e. are spaced apart from one another in the transverse direction Q and face away from one another. The front end face 231 faces the adjacent chain link 20' lying in front of the chain link 20 within the support chain 10, and the rear end face 232 faces the adjacent chain link 20'' lying behind the chain link 20 within the support chain 10. In terms of surface area, the top side 204A (FIG.4C) and the bottom side 204B (FIG.4B) and the outer side surfaces 23 (FIG.4A) are of approximately the same order of magnitude and are at least twice as large as a cross-sectional area of ​​the chain link 20 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L.

[0079] The respective chain link 20 can be adjusted with respect to the

[0080] Longitudinal direction L can be conceptually divided into a front longitudinal section 21 (located on the right in Fig. 4) and a rear longitudinal section 22 (located on the left in Fig. 4) (the terms "front" and "rear" are used only for differentiation and are generally interchangeable). The front longitudinal section 21 comprises a front upper part 201A on the upper side 204A and a front lower part 201B on the lower side 204B, which are spaced from one another in the height direction H by a front free space 241. The rear longitudinal section 22, in turn, comprises a rear upper part 202A on the upper side 204A and a rear lower part 202B on the lower side 204B, which are spaced from one another in the height direction H by a rear free space 242. Both the front free space 241 and the rear free space 242 are continuous in the transverse direction and open on each of the two outer side surfaces 23.The free space 241 and the free space 242 are thus accessible in front of the respective outer side surface 23 for inserting the rear lower part 202B or the front upper part 201A and a joint connector 30 (see below).

[0081] For the purpose of explanation, consideration will now be given to any three chain links 20', 20 and 20'' which are successive within the support chain 10 and which are plugged together and connected to one another by hinge connectors 30, the middle chain link 20 being arranged between the first adjacent, i.e. the front chain link 20' and the second adjacent, i.e. the rear chain link 20'' (cf. FIG.6). The front upper part 201A of the middle chain link 20 is inserted into the rear free space 242 of the front chain link 20'. The rear lower part 202B of the middle chain link 20 is inserted into the front free space 241 of the rear chain link 20''.

[0082] The adjacent chain links 20, 20', 20'' are interlaced with one another in the longitudinal direction, transmitting tension and pressure or tensile force and thrust, such that they are inseparable from one another in the longitudinal direction L, at least in some or preferably all angled relative positions relative to one another. For this purpose, the front upper part 201A has an upper projection 206A pointing upwards in the height direction H, and the rear upper part 202A has an upper recess 208A complementary to the upper projection 206A. The upper projection 206A engages in the upper recess 208A of the front chain link 20', specifically from the rear free space 242 of the front chain link 20' towards its upper side 204A. The rear lower part 202B has a lower projection 206B pointing downwards in the height direction H, and the front lower part 201B has a lower recess 208B complementary to the lower projection 206B.The lower projection 206B engages the lower recess 208B of the rear chain link 20'', from the front clearance 241 of the rear chain link 20'' toward its underside 204B. The projections 206A, 206B are configured to engage the corresponding recesses 208A, 208B in both the extended position and the angled position of the adjacent chain links 20, 20' and the adjacent chain links 20, 20'', respectively. As a result, the tensile and compressive forces in the longitudinal direction L during movement of the support chain 10 can be transmitted by the interaction of the projections 206A, 206B and the recesses 208A, 208B, so that the articulated connectors 30 do not have to be subjected to tensile or compressive stresses, or only to a minor extent.

[0083] The recesses 208A, 208B are each designed to be continuous in the height direction H, i.e. as openings in the height direction H through the rear upper part 202A and the front lower part 201B, respectively. The upper projection 206A, however, does not protrude beyond the upper side 204A, i.e., it does not protrude beyond the upper outer edge of the upper recess 208A (i.e., at the upper side 204A from the recess 208A) either in the extended or in the angled position of the adjacent chain links 20, 20'. Likewise, the lower projection 206B does not protrude beyond the underside 204B, i.e., it does not protrude beyond the lower outer edge of the lower recess 208B (i.e., at the underside 204B from the recess 208B) either in the extended or in the angled position of the adjacent chain links 20, 20'. In the maximum possible, fully angled position, the upper projection 206A is flush with the upper side 204 of the front chain link 20', in whose upper recess 208A it engages.In the straight or extended position, the lower projection 206B is flush with the underside 204B of the rear chain link 20'', in whose lower recess 208B it engages.

[0084] As can best be seen in FIG.6, the respective chain link has contact surfaces on its projections and recesses, which in the extended or angled position rest against corresponding counter-contact surfaces of the adjacent chain link 20', 20'' and thereby transmit compressive or tensile force in the longitudinal direction L. In the extended position, the contact surface 216A of the upper projection 206A rests against the counter-contact surface 218A of the upper recess 208A. Correspondingly, the contact surface 216B of the lower projection 206B rests against the counter-contact surface 218B of the lower recess 208B. In the fully or maximum possible angled position, the contact surface 226A of the upper projection 206A rests against the counter-contact surface 228A of the upper recess 208A. Accordingly, the contact surface 226B of the lower projection 206B rests against the counter contact surface 228B of the lower recess 208B.The contact surfaces 216A, 216B, 218A, 218B, 226A, 226B, 228A, 228B run, as seen in the longitudinal section, parallel to the transverse direction Q but obliquely to the longitudinal direction L.

[0085] The two contact surfaces 216A, 226A of the upper projection 206A are inclined at an angle αA to each other, and the contact surfaces 216B, 226B of the lower projection 206B are inclined at a respective angle αB to each other. The contact surfaces 218A, 228A of the upper recess 208A are inclined at an angle βA to each other, and the contact surfaces 218B, 228B of the lower recess 208B are inclined at an angle βB to each other. The difference in angle between the angle αA of the projection 206A and βA of the upper recess 208A is equal to the difference in angle between the angle αB of the lower projection 206B and the angle βB of the lower recess 208B. As a result, both in the extended and in the fully angled position, two contact surfaces of the respective chain link 20, one at the bottom and one at the top, rest on the corresponding counter contact surfaces of an adjacent chain link 20', so that the pulling orCompressive forces are transmitted more effectively and the projections are subjected to less stress, particularly in shear.

[0086] Furthermore, each chain link 20 has end-face contact surfaces 231, 232 on its end faces. In the extended position, the end-face contact surface 231A of the front upper part 201A rests against the end-face contact surface 232A of the rear upper part 202A of the front chain link 20'. In the fully angled position, the end-face contact surface 231B of the front lower part 201B rests against the end-face contact surface 232B of the rear lower part 202B of the front chain link 20'. This allows for effective thrust transmission in the extended position and in the angled position, respectively.

[0087] The clear height of the front free space 241 is slightly larger than the corresponding dimension of the rear lower part 202B, i.e. the largest dimension in the height direction H in the region of the lower projection 206B. Thus, the rear lower part 202B of a front adjacent chain link 20' can be inserted into the front free space 241 of the chain link 20, in the example shown both along the transverse direction Q and the longitudinal direction L. Subsequently, the lower projection 206B of the front chain link 20' can be inserted downwards in the height direction H from the front free space 241 into the lower recess 208B of the middle chain link 20. The clear height of the rear free space 242 is in turn slightly larger than the largest dimension of the front upper part 201A, i.e. the dimension in the height direction H in the region of the upper projection 206A.Thus, the front upper part 201A of a rear adjacent chain link 20'' can be inserted into the rear free space 242 of the middle chain link 20, in the example shown both along the transverse direction Q and the longitudinal direction L. Subsequently, the upper projection 206A of the rear chain link 20'' can be inserted upwards in the height direction H from the rear free space 242 into the upper recess 208A of the middle chain link 20. Thus, the chain links 20, 20', 20'' (before they are secured by hinge connectors 30) have two possible joining directions for joining or disassembling without bending the chain links: along the transverse direction Q and along the longitudinal direction L, with subsequent movement in the height direction H. By inserting the projections 206A, 206B in the height direction, ie perpendicular to each joining direction, into engagement with the following chain link 20, 20', 20'', a type of locking is realized.This can also prevent the support chain 12 from breaking during operation, particularly in conjunction with the inclined contact surfaces 216A, 226A or 216B, 226B as well as 218A, 228A or 218B, 228B, which engage the projections 206A, 206B under tensile load. The end-face contact surfaces 231A, 231B, 232A, 232B also act accordingly, so that under shear load, due to a type of wedge effect, the chain links 20, 20', 20'' tend more strongly toward the engaged position.

[0088] When a joint connector 30 is inserted between each two chain links 20, 20', it extends between the front upper part 241A and front lower part 241B of one chain link 20 and the rear upper part 242A and the rear lower part 242B of the front chain link 20', and in doing so takes up part of the front free space 241 of the chain link 20 and part of the rear free space 242 of the front chain link 20', so that the clear height of the respective free space becomes smaller, namely smaller than the largest dimension of the front upper part 201A or the rear lower part 202B. This already ensures that the chain links 20 are reliably and irreversibly secured against accidental separation from one another in the manner of a lock, since the projections 206A, 206B cannot be removed from the recesses 208A, 208B of the adjacent chain link without bending or even breaking the chain links 20, 20', 20 ''.

[0089] The chain link 20 consists of a body that is mirror-symmetrical to its longitudinal center plane (LH), so that the force transmission between the interacting surfaces under tensile and shear loads takes place without components in the transverse direction Q.

[0090] In FIGS. 3-6, it can also be seen that each chain link 20 has a recess 25 for weight reduction. In the example shown, this recess is designed as an approximately circular-cylindrical through-opening in the transverse direction Q, which opens into the two outer side surfaces 23 and, with respect to the longitudinal direction L, is located midway between the fastening receptacles 36. The recess 25 can also have a different shape in the side view, as in FIG. 4A, for example, an oval section. The transitions from the recess 25 to the side surfaces 23 are preferably rounded.

[0091] FIGS. 7A-7C show an embodiment of the articulated connector 30, which here is designed as a substantially plate-like or plate-shaped component made of plastic. The main extension and main plane of the articulated connector 30 runs in the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction Q. It can also be designed as a component that is curved or partially curved in the vertical direction H. The articulated connector 30 has a deformable region 32 in the central region, relative to the longitudinal direction L. At each of its longitudinal ends, the articulated connector 30 has a fastening region 34. Each fastening region 34 serves for fastening to one of the two adjacent chain links 20, 20'. The fastening region 34 can have a consistent shape and size in the transverse direction Q. The chain link 20, in turn, has two fastening receptacles 36 spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction L and facing away from one another, each for receiving a fastening region 34.Each chain link 20 can be connected to two joint connectors 30 and thus to a front and a rear chain link 20', 20''. One, or front, fastening receptacle 36 is arranged, with respect to the height direction H, between the front upper part 201A and the front lower part 201B of the chain link 20 and represents an indentation of the front free space 241. The other, or rear, fastening receptacle 36 is arranged, with respect to the height direction H, between the rear upper part 202A and the rear lower part 202B of the chain link 20 and represents an indentation of the rear free space 242. The respective fastening receptacle 36 is preferably located equidistant from the top side 204A and the bottom side 204B of the chain link 20. The respective fastening receptacle 36 also opens openly into each of the outer side surfaces 23 of the chain link 20.Each fastening receptacle 36 has a constant shape and size along the transverse direction Q and is adapted to the shape of the fastening region 34, so that the fastening region 34 can be inserted into the fastening receptacle 36, preferably exclusively, along the transverse direction Q and is secured in the fastening receptacle 36 against displacement in the longitudinal direction L, at least by form-fitting means. Thus, the articulated connector 30 can be connected to two consecutive chain links 20, 20' by inserting the articulated connector 30 between the chain links 20, 20' along the transverse direction Q and can be removed again along the transverse direction Q. The dimension of the articulated connector 30 in the transverse direction Q, ieits width, is equal to the distance between the outer side surfaces 23 of the chain link 20, so that in the intended connected state the joint connector 30 ends flush on both sides in the transverse direction Q with the respective outer side surface 23 of the chain link.

[0092] A joint connector 30 connected to the two consecutive chain links 20, 20' prevents the chain links 20, 20' from shifting relative to one another in the height direction H and thus also prevents the projections 206A, 206B of the chain link 20 from becoming detached from the recesses 208A, 208B of the adjacent chain link 20', 20''. However, the tensile and compressive forces are at least predominantly absorbed and transmitted by the interaction of the contact surfaces of the chain links 20, 20', 20'' (preferably at least two contact surfaces per chain link at the same time, as described above, so that the forces are distributed over a larger area), so that the joint-like connection of the linked chain links 20 can absorb particularly high tensile / compressive forces. The above design is also made possible by the fact that the chain links 20, 20', 20 '' are not connected to one another in the longitudinal direction L, but only essentially perpendicular to it.can be separated from each other. During operation, the articulated connectors 30 are subjected at least predominantly to bending, but only slightly or not at all to tensile or compressive stress (they are relieved of the tensile / compressive stress by the interlaced chain links 20). The articulated connectors 30 can therefore be made of a different material that is particularly suitable for frequent bending cycles and that differs from the tensile-strength and more rigid material of the chain links 20.

[0093] In the example shown, the respective fastening area 34 is designed as a circular-cylindrical thickening relative to the central deformable area 32, which is rounded in longitudinal section. Other shapes are also possible, e.g. a cup shape or a triangular shape, in order to prevent rotation of the fastening area 34, which would generate abrasion. In the example shown, twisting of the fastening areas 34 is also prevented by the fact that the chain link 20 has two clamping surfaces 37 on the fastening receptacle 36, which are spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction H and face one another, extend in the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction Q and interact with a slight thickening 38 on the fastening area 34 of the articulated connector 30 and hold it force-fittingly against twisting, but also against displacement in the transverse direction Q.The thickened portion 38 is thus received in the intended, operational state of the support chain 10 by being pressed in or press-fitted between the clamping surfaces 37. This not only prevents rotation of the fastening area 34 in the fastening receptacle 36, but also prevents unintentional detachment of the articulated connector 30 from the support chain 10 in the transverse direction Q. To remove the articulated connector, a force must be applied in the transverse direction Q, which cannot occur under normal operating conditions.

[0094] In addition, the respective fastening area 34 and the fastening receptacle 36 have mutually corresponding locking means 39, 39', which engage with each other against displacement in the transverse direction Q and are designed here, for example, in the form of a circumferential notch or groove 39 on the fastening area 34 of the joint connector 30 (cf. FIG. 7B, 7C), and a corresponding elevation 39' in the fastening receptacle 36 of the chain link 20 (cf. FIG. 4D, 4E).

[0095] The joint connector 30 is designed as a hinge-like spring element that acts like a leaf spring when two chain links 20 are bent, i.e., it has resilient properties. During intended deformation, i.e., when adjacent chain links 20, 20' connected to the joint element 30 pivot relative to one another, the joint connector 30 exerts an elastic restoring force on these chain links 20, 20' in the direction opposite to the pivoting. This results in a low-vibration and even movement of the support chain 10, which, among other things, reduces wear on the projections 206A, 206B of the chain links and overall counteracts the formation of abrasion.

[0096] At least the elastically or spring-elastically deformable region 32 or the entire joint connector 30 is made of a material that differs from the material of the chain link 20, for example, from a different plastic with a different modulus of elasticity. In addition, the shape of the deformable region 32 also determines its spring-elastic properties. The length of the deformable region 32 in the longitudinal direction L, and optionally also its width in the transverse direction Q, are each a multiple of its material thickness or dimension in the height direction H. Bending forces when pivoting the chain links 20 act, among other things, in the height direction H transverse to the longitudinal direction L on the deformable region 32 of the joint connector 30. In other embodiments, the deformable region 32 can be curved in longitudinal section to influence its flexibility, or e.g.be formed from two layers or plies spaced apart from each other in the height direction H by a free space, which come together in the fastening areas 34. Other shapes in longitudinal section and possibly also cross-section for influencing the area moment of inertia of the deformable area 32 are also possible.

[0097] Alternatively, the joint connector can also be designed in such a way that essentially no restoring forces are exerted, for which purpose, for example, a film hinge-like joint area can be provided.

[0098] By using the flexible joint connectors 30 in the support chain 10 according to the invention, in particular the typical joint / bolt joint connection of typical support chains can be avoided, so that the abrasion that inevitably accompanies it is also avoided.

[0099] PE / ba-tb

[0100] Applicant: igus GmbH 51147 Cologne

[0101] List of reference symbols

[0102] 1 cable routing device

[0103] 2 , 4 Connection points

[0104] 3 supply lines

[0105] 5 , 6 dreams

[0106] 7 Deflection bend

[0107] 8 Wrapping

[0108] 9 recording channels

[0109] 10 support chain

[0110] 11 End fastening device

[0111] 12 strands

[0112] 13 Fastening profiles or fastening straps

[0113] 20 , 20 20 ' ' chain link

[0114] 21 front longitudinal section of a chain link

[0115] 22 rear longitudinal section of a chain link

[0116] 23 outer side surfaces

[0117] 25 Cutout for weight reduction

[0118] 30 joint connectors

[0119] 32 deformable area of ​​the joint connector

[0120] 34 Mounting area of ​​the joint connector

[0121] 36 Fastening bracket for the chain link

[0122] 37 Clamping surface of the chain link

[0123] 38 Thickening at the fastening area of ​​the joint connector

[0124] 39 Locking means of the joint connector

[0125] 39 ' Counter-locking device of the chain link

[0126] 201A front upper part of a chain link

[0127] 201B front lower part of a chain link

[0128] 202A rear upper part of a chain link

[0129] 202 B rear lower part of a chain link 204A top of a chain link

[0130] 204B Underside of a chain link

[0131] 206A upper projection

[0132] 206B lower projection

[0133] 208A upper recess

[0134] 208 B lower recess

[0135] 216A, 226A Stop surfaces of the upper projection

[0136] 216B , 226B Stop surfaces of the lower projection aA Angle between the stop surfaces of the upper

[0137] Projection aB Angle between the stop surfaces of the lower

[0138] lead

[0139] 218A, 228A Stop surfaces of the upper recess

[0140] 218 B , 228 B Stop surfaces of the upper recess ßA Angle between the stop surfaces of the upper

[0141] Recess ßB Angle between the stop surfaces of the lower

[0142] recess

[0143] 231 , 232 front or rear end of a chain link

[0144] 231A frontal contact surface of the front upper part

[0145] 232A frontal contact surface of the rear upper part

[0146] 231B frontal contact surface of the front lower part

[0147] 232 B frontal contact surface of the rear lower part

[0148] 241 front clearance of a chain link

[0149] 242 rear clearance of a chain link

[0150] A Distance between the outer side surfaces of the chain link

[0151] H Altitude direction

[0152] L longitudinal direction

[0153] Q transverse direction

[0154] U deflection axis

Claims

Claims for a cable guidance device (1), in particular for cleanroom applications, for the protected routing of supply lines (3), such as cables, hoses or the like, between two connection points (2, 4), at least one of which is movable relative to the other, wherein the cable guidance device (1) extends in a longitudinal direction (L) and is movable back and forth, forming two sections (5, 6) and a deflection arc (7) connecting the sections and in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and a vertical direction (H) lie, the cable guidance device (1) comprising: - a flexible covering (8) with a number of receiving channels (9) arranged side by side and extending in the longitudinal direction (L) for at least one supply line (3) each , and - at least one support chain (10) which can be arranged or is arranged in a receiving channel (9) to support the cable guide device (1), wherein the support chain (10) is designed to form the tubes (5, 6) and the deflection bend (7), characterized in that the support chain (10) consists at least in a longitudinal section of a strand (12) which has alternating successive chain links (20) and joint connectors (30) in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the joint connectors (30) each comprise a deformable area (32) which in a bending direction is particularly elastically deformable, wherein the joint connectors (30) each hold two adjacent chain links (20, 20') together, wherein the chain links (20, 20') are pivotable relative to each other in or against the bending direction, between a stretched and an angled position, and that at least some of the chain links (20) and / or joint connectors (30) of the strand (12) are connectable and / or detachable from each other in a joining direction different from the longitudinal direction (L), in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L).

2. Support chain (10) for supporting a cable guidance device (1) with a flexible covering (8), in particular according to claim 1, wherein the support chain (10) is in a longitudinal direction (L) runs and is designed to form two trunks (5, 6) and a deflection arc (7) connecting the trunks (5, 6) and in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and a vertical direction (H) lie, characterized in that the support chain (10) consists at least in a longitudinal section of a strand (12) which has chain links (20) and joint connectors (30) alternating in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the joint connectors (30) each comprise a deformable area (32) which is particularly elastically deformable in an angular direction, wherein the joint connectors (30) each hold two adjacent chain links (20, 20') together, wherein the chain links (20, 20') are oriented relative to each other in orare pivotable against the direction of angling, between a stretched and an angled position, and that at least some of the chain links (20) and / or joint connectors (30) of the strand (12) are connectable and / or detachable from one another in a joining direction different from the longitudinal direction (L), in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L).

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the respective chain link (20) has two links extending from each other in a transverse direction (Q) The chain link (20) has outer side surfaces (23) spaced perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and facing away from each other, which define the chain link (20) in the transverse direction (Q), wherein preferably the chain link (20) has a continuous cross-section at least partially between the outer side surfaces (23) or is designed as a solid body. A device according to one of claims 1 to 3, in particular according to claim 3, characterized in that the joining direction is essentially in the transverse direction (Q). A device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the strand (12) is designed as a linkage of a plurality of alternately connected chain links (20) and separate joint connectors (30), which are designed as separate components, wherein each of the plurality of joint connectors (30) is preferably detachably connected to two adjacent chain links (20, 20').Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the respective chain link (20) of the plurality of chain links (20) has a front longitudinal section (21) and a rear longitudinal section (22) with respect to the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the front longitudinal section. (21) of the respective chain link (20) is designed to engage in a positive-locking manner with a rear longitudinal section (22) of an adjacent chain link (20) for transmitting tensile and / or compressive forces in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the front longitudinal section (21) has a front upper part (201A) on a top surface (204A) located outside with respect to the deflection arc (7) and a front lower part (201B) on a bottom surface (204B) located inside with respect to the deflection arc (7), and the rear longitudinal section (22) has a rear upper part (202A) on the upper side (204A) and a rear lower part (202B) on the lower side (204B), wherein the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) of the respective chain link (20) are spaced apart from each other by a front clearance (241) in the vertical direction (H), into which the rear lower part (202B) of a first adjacent chain link (20') can be inserted or is inserted, wherein the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the respective chain link (20) are spaced apart from each other by a rear clearance (242) in the vertical direction (H), into which the front upper part (201A) of a second adjacent chain link (20'') can be inserted or is inserted. Support chain (10) for supporting a cable guidance device (1) with a flexible covering (8), in particular according to claim 1, wherein the support chain (10) has a plurality of individual chain links (20) which are pivotably connected or connected to each other to form longitudinally (L) extended sections (5, 6) and a U-shaped deflection arc (7) connecting the sections and in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and a vertical direction (H) lie, wherein each pair of adjacent chain links (20) can be pivoted between an extended and an angled position relative to each other, wherein the respective chain link (20) of the plurality of chain links (20) has a front longitudinal section (21) and a rear longitudinal section (22) with respect to the longitudinal direction (L),wherein the front longitudinal section (21) of the respective chain link (20) is designed to engage positively with a rear longitudinal section (22) of an adjacent chain link (20) for transmitting tensile and / or compressive forces in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the front longitudinal section (21) has a front upper part (201A) on a top surface (204A) of the chain link (20) located outside the deflection arc (7) and a front lower part (201B) on a bottom surface (204B) of the chain link (20) located inside the deflection arc (7), and the rear longitudinal section (22) has a rear upper part (202A) on the top surface (204A) and a rear lower part (202B) on the bottom surface (204B) of the chain link (20), the respective chain link (20) having two sections extending from each other in a transverse direction (Q) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L). has spaced-apart and mutually facing outer side surfaces (23), which the, limiting the chain link (20) in the transverse direction (Q), characterized in that -the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) of the respective chain link (20) by a front clearance (241) are spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction (H) transverse to the longitudinal direction (L), into which the rear lower part (202B) of a first adjacent chain link (20') can be inserted or is inserted, and that -the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the respective chain link (20) by a rear clearance (242) are spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction (H), into which the front upper part (201A) of a second adjacent chain link (20'') can be inserted or is inserted. Support chain according to claim 7, characterized in that at least some of the chain links (20) can be connected and / or detached from one another in a joining direction different from the longitudinal direction (L), in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the joining direction preferably runs substantially in the transverse direction (Q). Support chain (10) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the support chain (10) comprises a plurality of articulated connectors (30), which are preferably designed as separate components, wherein the articulated connectors (30) have, in particular, elastically deformable areas (32) in the angular direction of the chain links (20), wherein each of the plurality of articulated connectors (30) is particularly preferably detachably connectable to two adjacent chain links (20).Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that. - the front upper part (201A) has an upper projection (206A) extending in the vertical direction (H) and the rear upper part (202A) has an upper recess (208A); and - the rear lower part (202B) has a lower projection (206B) extending in the vertical direction (H) and the front The lower part (201B) has a lower recess (208B); wherein the upper projection (206A) of the respective chain link (20) is designed to engage in the upper recess (208A) of the first adjacent chain link (20') in both the extended and the angled positions, and the lower projection (206B) of the respective chain link (20) is designed to engage in the lower recess (208B) of the second adjacent chain link (20'') in both the extended and the angled positions, preferably wherein the upper projection (206A) for engagement in the upper recess (208A) extends from the rear clearance (242) of one adjacent chain link (20') towards its upper side (204A), and the lower projection (206B) for engagement in the lower recess (208B) extends from the front clearance (241) of the other adjacent chain link (20'') towards its underside (204B) is trainedParticularly preferably, wherein the clear height of the front clearance (241) is equal to or greater than the dimension of the rear lower part (202B) including the lower projection (206B) in the vertical direction (H), and the clear height of the rear clearance (242) is equal to or greater than the dimension of the front upper part (202A) including the upper projection (206A) in the vertical direction (H). Device (1, 10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the upper recess (208A) forms an opening from the rear clearance (242) to the upper side (204A) and / or the lower recess (208B) forms an opening from the front clearance (241) to the lower side (204B). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the upper projection (206A), the lower projection (206B), the upper recess (208A) and the lower recess (208B) of the respective chain link (20) each have a contact surface (216A, 216B, 218A,218B) to the pressure and / or tensile force-bearing request at a corresponding, The counter-contact surface of an adjacent chain link (20 ') in the extended position and a contact surface (226A, 226B, 228A, 228B) for bearing against a corresponding counter-contact surface of an adjacent chain link (20 ') in the angled position, wherein each of the contact surfaces (216A, 216B, 218A, 218B, 226A, 226B, 228A, 228B) preferably extends transversely to the longitudinal direction (L).

13. Device (1, 10) according to claim 12, characterized in that the contact surfaces (216A, 226A) of the upper projection (206A) or the contact surfaces (216B, 226B) of the lower projection (206B) are at a respective angle (ctA, aB) to each other, and the contact surfaces (218A, 228A) of the upper recess (208A) and the contact surfaces (218B, 228B) of the lower recess, respectively. (208B) are at a respective angle ( βA, βB) to each other, wherein the difference in angular measure between the angles (aA, βA) of the upper projection (206A) and the upper recess (208A) and the difference in angular measure between the angles (aB, βB) of the lower projection (206B) and the lower recess (208B) are preferably substantially equal or equal.

14. Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the upper projection (206A) in the angled position is flush with the top surface (204A) of the chain link (20 ') in whose upper recess (208A) it engages, and / or the lower projection (206B) in the extended position is flush with the bottom surface (204B) of the chain link (20'') in whose lower recess (208B) it engages.

15. Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 6 to 14, characterized in that the respective chain link (20) has end-face contact surfaces (231A, 232A, 231B, 232B) on the front and rear upper part (201A, 202A) as well as on the front and rear lower part (201B, 202B), which are designed such that end-face contact surfaces (231A, 232A) of the front and rear upper part (201A, 202A) in the extended position against the end-face contact surfaces (231A, 232A) of the front and rear upper part (201A, 202A) of the adjacent chain link (20') abut, and end-face contact surfaces (231B, 232B) of the front and rear lower part (201B, 202B) in an angled position on the end-face contact surfaces (231B, 232B) of the adjacent chain link (20'). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 6 to 15, characterized in that both the front and the rear clearance (241, 242) open into each of the outer side surfaces (23). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that - that the dimension of the respective joint connector (30) in the transverse direction (Q) is more than 30%, in particular between 50% and 100%, of the distance (A) between the outer side surfaces (23) of the respective chain link (20), preferably is essentially equal to the distance (A), and / or - that the respective joint connector (30) extends in a central region between the outer side surfaces (23) of the chain links (20) with respect to the transverse direction (Q). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 6 or 9 to 17, characterized in that each joint connector (30) extends at least partially with respect to a vertical direction (H) between the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) of one of the two adjacent chain links (20) and the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the other of the two adjacent chain links (20). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the joint connectors (30) are designed as spring elements which, when adjacent chain links (20) are angled, exert elastic restoring forces on these chain links (20), causing at least a partial restoring movement of the chain links (20) against the direction of angling.Device (1, 10) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the length of the elastically deformable area (32) of the respective joint connector (30) in the longitudinal direction (L) is a multiple of the thickness of the respective joint connector (30) in the vertical direction (H). Device (1, 10) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the respective joint connector (30) has two fastening areas (34) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (L) and is fastened to each of the two adjacent chain links (20) by one of the fastening areas (34) against displacement in the longitudinal direction (L).Device (1, 10) according to claim 21, characterized in that, with respect to the longitudinal direction (L) between the fastening areas (34), at least two areas of the joint connector (30) with at least one different property selected from the group consisting of cross-section, material thickness, and modulus of elasticity are provided. Device (1, 10) according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the respective chain link (20) has two fastening receptacles (36) for positive and / or force-fit interaction with each fastening area (34), wherein each fastening receptacle (36) is preferably formed between the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) or the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the respective chain link (20); and / or wherein the respective fastening receptacle (36) opens into at least one of the side surfaces (23) of the chain link (20), preferably into both.Device (1, 10) according to claim 23, characterized in that the respective mounting receptacle (36) is located in a central area between the vertical direction (H). The device (1, 10) according to claim 23 or 24 is arranged on the top side (204A) and the bottom side (204B), preferably wherein the mounting receptacle (36) has a substantially equal distance to the top side (204A) and the bottom side (204B). The device (1, 10) is characterized in that the respective chain link (20) has clamping surfaces (37) at the respective mounting receptacle (36), in particular at the transition from the mounting receptacle (36) to the front or rear clearance (241, 242), spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction (H) and facing each other, which are designed to force-fit a mounting area (34) of the associated joint connector (30) and act against movement of the mounting area (34) relative to the corresponding mounting receptacle (36), wherein the respective joint connector (30) preferably has thickenings (38) at the mounting areas (34) for interaction with the clamping surfaces (37).Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective joint connector (30) has locking means (39) in the fastening areas (34), which are designed to interact with complementary counter-locking means (39') of the associated chain links (20), preferably against displacement in the transverse direction (Q). Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least some of the joint connectors (30) are designed as substantially plate-like components or as components curved in the plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and the vertical direction (H) lie. Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the joint connectors (30) are made of plastic, and / or that the joint connectors (30) and the chain links (20) are made of different materials. Materials consist. Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each chain link (20) and / or each joint connector (30) consists of a body that is mirror-symmetrical about its longitudinal median plane (LH); and / or each chain link (20) consists of a block body, preferably a one-piece block body. Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each chain link (20) and / or each joint connector (30) is manufactured in one piece from plastic, in particular by injection molding.

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