CAM LOCKING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING A WIRED ELEMENT OF A CAM LOCKING DEVICE

Abstract

CAM LOCKING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING A WIRE ELEMENT OF A CAM LOCKING DEVICE. A cam locking device comprises a head (1) with a cam (3) pivotally mounted about a pivot shaft (4) between retracted and extended positions. An annular end (2) is mechanically coupled to the head (1). A variable-length rod (8) connects the head (1) with an annular end (2) designed to receive a carabiner. A wire element (5) made of textile material passes through the rod to connect the head (1) and the annular end (2). A trigger (7) is slidably mounted to selectively engage the retracted position of the cam (3). A rod length adjustment device (8) defines at least a distance between the head (1) and the annular end (2) which is greater than a threshold distance to stretch the wire element (5) and compress the rod (8) in the first direction (XX).

Description

Title of the invention: CAM LOCKING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING A WIRE ELEMENT OF A CAM LOCKING DEVICE Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a cam locking device, to a method of adjusting a wire element of a cam belaying device. Prior art

[0002] During the climbing phases, a climber is required to place protection points in a wall. The climber successively installs several protection points which are intended to support him in the event of a fall. Some walls are equipped with pre-installed protection points, for example in the form of "spits" which are sealed in the rock. Other walls are not equipped with such points so that the climber must find the crevice which is most suitable for the installation of his protection point.

[0003] When the climber has to set up his protection points, it is conventional to install passive chocks and active chocks. The chocks are intended to be inserted into crevices which are generally holes, cracks, chutes or any other hollow which is deep enough to allow the introduction of a chock. Each particular shape of crevice is adapted to a particular configuration of chock. Passive chocks are often formed by metal parts having a specific shape. In a first position, the chock can be inserted into a crack in a wall and in a second position the chock is wedged between two opposite faces. It is then possible to easily install and remove the chock provided that it is placed in the correct spatial configuration inside the hole. On the contrary, in the event of a fall, the spatial configuration of the chock will be such that it will be wedged between two opposite faces of the hole.

[0004] In addition to passive jammers, active jammers are also known, also called cam jammers or "friends". The cam jammer is provided with a head which has a plurality of cams. The cams are mounted to move around one or more pivot shafts.

[0005] The cams move between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the head's bulk is less than in the extended position. The wedge head is introduced into a crack in its retracted position, then the cams seek to move to the extended position, which presses the cams against the two opposite walls of a crack. The shape of the cams has the effect of increasing the force applied to the crack faces when the wedge is pulled.

[0006] Conventionally, a cam lock has, at a first end, a head provided with several rotating cams. The second end of the cam lock is an annular end which is configured to receive a carabiner and serve as an anchor point for the climber.

[0007] The head is mechanically connected to the annular end by means of a cable which is generally a steel cable. The two ends of the cable are wedged into the head of the wedge by crimping. The cable extends continuously between the two ends along the body and it extends along the annular end so as to ensure mechanical continuity between the end fixed to the wall and the end intended to support the climber.

[0008] When the cable does not have the transverse rigidity necessary to provide good control in the placement of the wedge, it is conventional to provide a rod which extends from the head towards the annular end. The cable passes through the rod.

[0009] The cams are actuated by means of a trigger which is mounted to slide along the rod. When the user pulls the trigger towards the annular end, the cams move to the retracted position. When the user stops this pull, a spring returns the cams to the extended position.

[0010] Multiple configurations of cam jammers are known which describe different configurations of cams, cables, rods or annular ends.

[0011] Conventionally, the cable passes through a hollow rod that extends from the head. The rod is traversed by the cable to ensure mechanical continuity. However, there is an alternative architecture in which one or more rigid metal rods connect the head to the annular end. It is no longer necessary to use a cable. This alternative configuration is known from the following documents: DE2824654, US4,565,342, US4,575,032, US4,645,149, GB2158540, US4,184,657, US4,513,641, GB2369068. This infinitely rigid rod configuration is not advantageous because it does not allow the wedge to be easily installed in curved cracks.

[0012] Conventionally, the metal cable extending from one end of the cam jammer to the other is in the form of a "U" whose two upper ends are fixed to the head by crimping while the base portion which is generally the central portion defines the annular end. Documents US2021 / 0001181 and US2020 / 034075 illustrate a cam jammer whose two ends of the metal cable are crimped into the head under the rotation axes of the cams. Documents US2020 / 034075 and US4,832,289 also disclose an embodiment in which only one end of the cable is crimped into the head of the jammer. The other end is crimped to form the annular end. Documents US7,278,618 and US6,679,466 disclose a cable each end of which is crimped independently on either side of the cams. A tip defining a hole is crimped at each end and the hole in the tip receives a shaft which fixes the cable with the head.

[0013] Documents US5,860,629 and GB2380949 disclose a cable one end of which is crimped into the head of the cam and the other end receives a tip forming the annular end. The tip is crimped onto the cable.

[0014] Document US 6,679,466 illustrates a cam lock in which the two ends of the metal cable each go around an anchor shaft of the head. The two ends form a cable loop which is crimped to ensure mechanical continuity along the cam lock.

[0015] For these configurations, the length of the wedge is defined with the distance that the cable is crimped.

[0016] In order to provide a lighter product, it is proposed to replace the steel cable with a Dyneema® strap. Both ends of the strap are secured in the head and the strap extends along the jammer to define the annular end. A technical solution is provided in US 10,143,892 which proposes to form a loop in the Dyneema strap by means of a splicing step. The loop is used to secure the end of the strap in the head of the locking device.

[0017] The lifespan of such a strap is much shorter than the lifespan of the steel cable used previously and much shorter than the lifespan of the head. The splicing step is a long and expensive step. It also appears that the dimension of the loop is less well controlled than with the crimping steps, which can generate differences in length in the jammers and therefore hinder the climber. This requires adapting the length of the rod.

[0018] In order to ensure precise placement of the cams in a crack, it is important that the cam locking device has a certain rigidity perpendicular to the axis which connects the head and the annular end. This requires a complex assembly of the different components relative to each other. According to the teaching of document US10,143,892, two springs are installed between the two portions of the rod before forming the loop to constrain the textile wire element. This complicates the formation of the loop by splicing. Subject of the invention

[0019] An object of the invention is to provide a cam locking device which has good rigidity perpendicular to the direction connecting the head and the annular end while having a simpler design to possibly facilitate subsequent repair operations.

[0020] In order to address this problem, it is interesting to provide a cam locking device comprising: - a head; - at least one pivot shaft fixed to the head; - at least one cam coupled to the head and mounted to pivot about the at least one pivot shaft, the at least one cam being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; - a spring coupled to the at least one cam to bias the at least one cam toward the extended position; - an annular end mechanically coupled to the head, the annular end being intended to receive a connection element; - a rod extending from the head to the annular end in a first direction, the rod having a first end fixed to the head and a second end totally or partially defining the annular end; - at least one wire element continuously connecting the head and the annular end, the at least one wire element extending in the first direction and passing through the rod; - an actuation system configured to selectively engage the retracted position of the at least one cam, the actuation system having a trigger slidably mounted along the first direction.

[0021] The cam locking device is remarkable in that the rod is a rod with adjustable length for applying a tensile force to the wire element from the head to the annular end, the rod has at least a proximal part and a distal part, the distal part being mounted movably relative to the proximal part to adjust the length of the rod, and in that at least one blocker is configured to lock the rod at a desired length by locking the position of the distal portion relative to the proximal portion.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the wedge only blocks the distal portion relative to the proximal portion without jamming the wire element.

[0023] Advantageously, the wire element is a textile wire element.

[0024] In a particular configuration, the wire element is a textile wire element defining a sewn ring and the distal end comprises a tubular element, the wire element passing through the tubular element, two ends of the ring being fixed to the head.

[0025] In an advantageous development, the wire element is attached to the head by an anchor, the anchor being arranged at a distance from the cams in an observation direction parallel to the pivot axis of the at least one pivot shaft, the anchor being arranged between the annular end and the at least one pivot shaft.

[0026] Preferably, one of the proximal portion and the distal portion has a crenellated portion and the other of the proximal portion and the distal portion has at least one tooth configured to fit into at least one crenellation of the crenellations of the proximal portion. crenellated, the crenellations of the crenellated part being arranged consecutively along the first direction.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the proximal portion extends from the head to a portion of the annular portion, the blocker partially defining the through hole of the annular end.

[0028] In an advantageous development, the proximal portion partially defines the through hole of the annular end.

[0029] Preferably, the rod is a telescopic rod.

[0030] In another advantageous development, the proximal portion defines a plurality of adjustment stops, the distal portion being wedged against one of the plurality of adjustment stops.

[0031] Preferably, in the rest position, the trigger faces said one stop of the plurality of adjustment stops.

[0032] The invention also relates to a method of installing a wire element which is easier to adjust than in the configurations of the prior art.

[0033] This result is tended to be achieved by means of a method of adjusting a wire element of a cam lock comprising the following steps: - provide a cam locking device according to any of the preceding configurations; - extend the rod to apply a tensile force and stretch the wire element and apply a compressive force on the rod; - fix the length of the rod that stretches the wire element. Summary description of the drawings

[0034] Other advantages and characteristics will emerge more clearly from the following description of particular embodiments and implementations of the invention given as non-limiting examples and represented in the appended drawings, in which:

[0035] [Fig-1]: [Fig.l] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cam locking device;

[0036] [Fig.2]: [Fig.2] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cam locking device with an exploded view of the annular end;

[0037] [Fig.3]: [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a sectional view of a first mode of production of a cam locking device, in the unstretched position;

[0038] [Fig.4]: [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a sectional view of a first mode of production of a cam locking device, in the stretched position;

[0039] [Fig.5]: [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a second embodiment of a cam locking device;

[0040] [Fig.6]: [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a second embodiment of a cam locking device with an exploded view of the annular end;

[0041] [Fig.7]: [Fig.7] schematically illustrates a sectional view of a second mode of producing a cam locking device, in the unstretched position;

[0042] [Fig.8]: [Fig.8] schematically illustrates a sectional view of a second embodiment of a cam locking device, in the stretched position;

[0043] [Fig.9]: [Fig.9] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a third embodiment of a cam locking device with the representation of the equivalent conformation of the wire element;

[0044] [Fig. 10]: [Fig. 10] schematically illustrates a sectional view of a third embodiment of a cam locking device, in an unstretched position;

[0045] [Fig. 11]: [Fig. 11] schematically illustrates a sectional and exploded view of a third embodiment of a cam locking device;

[0046] [Fig.12]: [Fig.13] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a cam locking device with the equivalent representation of the conformation of the wire element;

[0047] [Fig. 13]: [Fig. 13] schematically illustrates a sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a cam locking device, in the stretched position. Description of the embodiments

[0048] Figures 1 to 13 illustrate different embodiments of a cam locking device also known as a "cam lock". The cam locking device is an active locking device.

[0049] The cam locking device comprises a first end which is a head 1 and a second opposite end which is an annular end 2. Conventionally, the annular end 2 is in the form of a ring which defines a through hole configured to receive a carabiner. The annular end 2 is capable of supporting the weight of a user. The head 1 has at least one cam 3 and preferably several cams 3 which are mounted to pivot between an extended position and a retracted position. Preferably, several cams 3 are mounted to move independently of each other.

[0050] The cam(s) 3 are mounted to move around at least one pivot shaft 4. The pivot shaft 4 is fixed to the head 1, more precisely the pivot shaft 4 is fixed to a body 1a of the head 1. The body 1a can be formed by one or more parts.

[0051] The cam locking device has a wire element 5 which mechanically connects the head 1 to the annular end 2. The wire element 5 mechanically couples the cams 3 to the annular end 2 so that a user fixed to the annular end 2 is retained by means of the cams 3 wedged for example in a crack. The wire element 5 is the element which ensures the mechanical continuity between the head 1 and the annular end 2. The cam(s) 3 are mechanically coupled to the annular end 2. The wire element 5 extends in a first direction XX which connects the head 1 to the annular end 2 so as to achieve the mechanical hold in this first direction XX. The wire element 5 is attached to the head 1 and it extends continuously from the head 1 until it reaches the annular end 2 to achieve the mechanical continuity along the locking device.

[0052] The pivot shaft 4 extends mainly in a second direction YY which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first direction XX. The cam(s) 3 are mounted to rotate about the second direction YY.

[0053] Preferably, the head 1 has at least one anchor 6, for example an anchor shaft. Advantageously, the wire element 5 is fixed to the anchor 6 so as to mechanically couple the wire element 5 and the head 1.

[0054] Preferably, the wire element 5 defines at least one loop which is crossed by the anchor 6 in order to carry out the force absorption with the annular end 2 when the cam locking device is placed under a tension force in the first longitudinal direction XX. Preferably, the wire element 5 is a textile material. Advantageously, the textile material is a polyethylene of very high molar mass, for example in a material marketed under the names Dyneema® or Spectra®.

[0055] In a particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 13, the wire element 5 is in the form of a ring. It is advantageous for the ring to be obtained by joining two ends of the wire element 5. The two ends can be fixed to each other by a seam 5a as illustrated in Figures 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 for a textile wire element. Sewing is a well-controlled process which makes it easier to obtain a ring whose mechanical strength is controlled. The use of a sewing step makes it possible to form a ring that is less expensive and whose dimension is better controlled than its equivalent obtained by splicing. It is advantageous for the ring to be free of crimping and splicing. The wire element 5 may be a strap or a rope.

[0056] The locking device comprises an actuation system coupled to the at least one cam 3. The actuation system is configured to selectively engage the retracted position of the at least one cam 3. The actuation system has a trigger 7 slidably mounted along the first direction XX connecting the head 1 and the annular end 2.

[0057] The trigger 7 is mounted to move relative to the head 1 and it is coupled to the least one cam 3. The trigger 7 is coupled to the at least one cam 3 such that moving the trigger 7 away from the head 1 causes the at least one cam 3 to move toward the retracted position, i.e. out of the extended position. Preferably, the trigger 7 is coupled to all the cams 3 such that moving the trigger 7 away from the head 1 causes the cams 3 to move toward the retracted position. Out of the first trigger position, the at least one cam 3 is out of the extended position.

[0058] Preferably, when the at least one cam 3 is in a retracted position, the at least one cam 3 does not prevent movement of the trigger 7 in the direction of the head 1.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the trigger 7 is slidably mounted along the wire element 5 between the head 1 and the annular end 2. The trigger 7 may be coupled to the cam 3 or to each cam 3 by an additional wire element 10. The additional wire element 10 may be a metal cable, a textile element or a wire element made of synthetic material, for example plastic material. The additional wire element 10 mechanically couples the cam 3 with the trigger 7 and makes it possible to translate a movement of the trigger 7 to the second trigger position, i.e. to translate a movement towards the annular end 2 into a movement of the cam 3 to the retracted position. The movement of the at least one cam 3 from the retracted position to the extended position results in a movement of the trigger 7 out of the second trigger position.

[0060] The cam locking device has a spring 11 which is configured to bias the at least one cam 3 towards the extended position. The spring 11 can be made in any technology, it can be a helical spring operating in tension, compression, torsion or bending. It can also be a blade or a metal wire which is elastically deformed. In the absence of bias and obstacle, the spring 11 places the at least one cam 3 in the extended position. The force applied to the trigger 7 to move away from the head 1 corresponds to a force applied to the spring 11 to move the at least one cam 3 out of the extended position. In one embodiment, the spring 11 is fixed on the one hand to the cam 3 and on the other hand to the head 1. In another embodiment, the spring 11 is fixed on the one hand to a first cam 3 and on the other hand to a second cam 3 mounted on a pivot shaft 4 other than the first cam 3.The locking device may comprise as many springs 11 as cams 3 or as many springs 11 as pairs of cams 3.

[0061] When the wire element 5 is a textile material, it is difficult to have good rigidity perpendicular to the first direction XX by means of the wire element 5, the rigidity is then provided by an additional element such as the rod. The same applies when the wire element 5 is a small section metal cable. For increase the rigidity perpendicular to the first direction XX, the cam locking device comprises at least one rod 8 which extends in the first direction XX from the head 1 to the annular end 2. The at least one rod 8 is fixed on the one hand to the head 1 and it partially or totally defines the annular end 2. Preferably, a first end of the rod 8 can be in abutment against the head 1. The force applied by the wire element makes it possible to press a head end of the rod 8 against the head 1.

[0062] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 13, the cam locking device comprises a single rod 8 which extends longitudinally in the first direction XX.

[0063] The rod 8 is more rigid than the wire element 5 perpendicular to the direction XX, which makes it possible to hold the cam locking device by means of the rod 8 and to precisely place the locking device in a crack in comparison with an equivalent device without the rod 8. It is advantageous for the trigger 7 to be slidably mounted along the rod 8 and for the rod 8 to separate the wire element 5 and the trigger 7. To protect the wire element, it is advantageous for the wire element 5 to pass through the rod 8.

[0064] In order to ensure good rigidity perpendicular to the first direction XX, it is advantageous to apply a tensile force to the wire element from its attachment point to the head to the annular end. To apply a tensile force to the wire element 5, the rod 8 is used, which then receives a compression force along the first direction XX applied by the wire element.

[0065] The manufacture of the wire element results in a disparity around a target length. The same applies to the manufacture of the rod. In order to apply sufficient force to the wire element, it is preferable to adjust the lengths of the wire element and the rod. It is therefore particularly advantageous to use a rod whose length is adjustable along the first direction XX so as to stress the wire element 5 in tension along the first direction XX. While document US 10,143,892 proposes using springs which will be stressed when fixing the wire element to the head, it is proposed to form a rod 8 in two parts with a blocker which fixes the length of the rod 8.

[0066] In a particular embodiment, the rod 8 has a variable length. The use of a variable length makes it possible to adjust the length of the rod 8 to the effective length of the wire element 5 between the head 1 and the annular end 2. To obtain a rod with variable length 8, it is advantageous to have a rod made in at least two parts, with a first part 8a mounted to move relative to the second part 8b in the first direction XX. By moving the first part 8a relative to the second part 8b, the length of the rod 8 can be adjusted. possible to apply a tensile force to the wire element 5 in the first direction XX. This makes it possible to compress the rod 8 by means of the wire element 5 and thus to increase the rigidity of the rod 8. The length is measured in the first direction XX.

[0067] Depending on the embodiments, the adjustment of the length of the rod 8 can be continuous or incremental. Once the length is defined, a blocker 12 makes it possible to fix the position of the second part 8b relative to the first part 8a. The wire element 5 being more rigid than the rod 8 in the first direction XX, the wire element 5 will oppose the increase in the length of the rod 8 which will be stressed in compression. The compression of the rod 8 will make it possible to have a more rigid rod 8 perpendicular to the first direction YY which improves the precise installation of the blocking device in the crack.

[0068] In a first blocking position, the length of the rod 8 can change, which avoids constraining the wire element 5 or over-constraining the wire element. This makes it easier to fix the wire element 5 with the head 1. In a second blocking position, the length of the rod 8 is fixed. The length of the rod 8 makes it possible to define the level of force applied to the wire element 5.

[0069] In other words, the cam locking device comprises a device for adjusting the length of the rod 8 configured to separate the head 1 and the annular end 2 beyond at least a threshold distance and apply a tensile force to the wire element 5 in the first direction XX.

[0070] The rod 8 has a proximal portion 8a abutting against the head 1 or fixed to the head. The rod 8 also has a distal portion 8b forming all or part of the annular end 2 and separated from the head 1 by the proximal portion 8a. The distal portion 8b is mounted to be movable relative to the proximal portion 8a to vary the length of the rod 8 and apply the tensile force to the wire element 5 in the first direction XX. This solution is simple to implement and makes it possible to adapt the length of the rod 8 to the length of the wire element 5.

[0071] It is advantageous for the proximal part 8 and the distal part 8b to comprise or consist of a tube through which the wire element 5 passes. The distal part 8b makes it possible to protect the wire element 5 against wear in all or part of the annular end 2.

[0072] Advantageously, the proximal portion 8a defines at least one cavity intended to receive one end of the distal portion 8b. When the blocker 12 is in the first blocking position, the end of the distal portion 8b is fixedly mounted in the cavity. When the blocker 12 is in the second blocking position, the end of the distal portion 8b can slide in the cavity.

[0073] Preferably illustrated in Figures 1 to 13, the tubular part of the part distal end 8b of the rod 8 is capable of elastically deforming perpendicular to the first direction XX in order to better adapt its shape to the shape of the wire element 5 under a tensile force. Preferably, the wire element 5 is in continuous contact with the tubular part of the distal part 8b so that the deformations applied in the annular end 2 are taken up by the wire element 5. By deforming, the tubular part of the distal part 8b applies a tensile force on the wire element 5 and a compressive force on the proximal part 8a. The deformation of the distal part 8b increases the rigidity perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0074] Advantageously, one of the proximal portion 8a and the distal portion 8b has a crenellated portion 8c and the other of the proximal portion 8a and the distal portion 8b has at least one tooth configured to fit into at least one slot of the slots of the crenellated portion 8c. The slots are arranged consecutively along the first direction XX. The use of a plurality of slots which cooperate with at least one tooth and preferably with a plurality of teeth makes it possible to define several distinct lengths of rod 8. It is then easier to adapt the length of the rod 8 to the length of the wire element 5 and to maintain this length. Such an embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 and can be applied to the other embodiments.

[0075] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 13, the cam locking device comprises a blocker 12 which is configured to lock the position of the distal portion 8b relative to the proximal portion 8a. The blocker 12 is removably mounted relative to the rod 8. The blocker 12 may comprise a screw 13 or any other fastening means for fixing the blocker 12 to the rod 8.

[0076] In the first position of the blocker, which is a blocking position, the blocker 12 reduces the section available for sliding between the first part 8a and the second part 8b. The position of the distal part 8b is fixed relative to the proximal part 8a. In the second position, which is a sliding position, the blocker 12 moves away, which has the effect of increasing the available section and allowing the length of the rod 8 to be adjusted. Figures 3 and 4 show a blocker 12, one end of which is in the form of a wedge, the depth of insertion of the blocker 12 into the rod 8 defines the value of narrowing of the cavity intended to receive the end of the distal part 8b.

[0077] It is particularly advantageous to install the blocker 12 in the portion of the rod which defines the annular end 2 rather than in the tubular part which connects the head to the annular end. This allows for more space to be available to avoid the formation of a privileged friction zone with the wire element 5. This allows the tubular part of the distal part 8b to better adapt its shape in depending on the applied constraints. This also makes it easier to mount the rod 8.

[0078] For example, in the first blocker position, the blocker 12 wedges at least one or both ends of the distal portion 8b against the proximal portion 8a as illustrated in Figures 3, 4, 7, 8, 10 and 13. When the blocker 12 wedges only one end of the distal portion 8b, the other end abuts against the proximal portion 8a.

[0079] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, the proximal end 8a defines two cavities intended to receive the two ends of the distal part 8b. In a first blocking position, the blocker 12 blocks the position of the distal part 8b relative to the proximal part 8a. In a second blocking position, the blocker 12 allows a displacement of the position of the distal part 8b relative to the proximal part 8a in the first direction XX. Such an assembly facilitates the installation of the tubular part in the cavities and then the application of a tensile force on the tubular part and on the wire element to compress the rest of the rod 8.

[0080] Figures 1 to 4 illustrate an embodiment where the blocker 12 is fixed in a hole in the proximal portion and reduces the section available for the distal portion 8b. The ends of the distal portion 8b deform and become wedged against the proximal portion 8a which fixes the position of the distal portion 8b relative to the proximal portion 8a.

[0081] Figures 5 to 8 illustrate an embodiment where the blocker 12 defines at least one tooth or a serrated portion 8c and the distal portion defines a serrated portion or at least one tooth. Once the blocker 12 is attached to the proximal portion 8a, the serrated portion and the at least one tooth fix the position of the distal portion 8b. The blocker 12 defines a wall of the cavity intended to receive the end of the distal portion 8b.

[0082] Figures 9 to 11 illustrate another embodiment with a proximal portion 8a which is a telescopic proximal portion. The blocker 12 is fixed to the proximal end 8a and it wedges the distal end 8b to fix the position of the distal end 8b. The two-part assembly of the proximal end 8a makes it easier to assemble the rod 8. The proximal portion 8a has a first portion 8d and a second portion 8e mounted to move relative to the first portion 8d in the first direction XX. In the position illustrated in [Fig. 9], the proximal portion 8a is in an extended position. In the position illustrated in [Fig. 10], the proximal portion 8a is in a retracted position. The configuration of the proximal portion 8a between the extended position and the retracted position is independent of the position of the at least one cam 3 and the position of the trigger 7.The proximal part 8a may have its own blocker to fix the position of the second portion 8e relative to the . position of the first portion 8d. For example, the first portion 8d and the second portion 8e define a set of grooves and teeth which only allow an extension of the length of the rod 8.

[0083] Preferably, once the proximal portion 8a is placed in the extended position, it is not possible to return to the retracted position or the force required to reach the retracted position is greater than the force applied between the wire element 5 and the rod 8 to compress the rod 8. The use of a proximal portion 8a in at least two portions, preferably with a telescopic assembly, makes it easier to mount the rod 8 and tension the wire element 5. Preferably, in the retracted position, the proximal portion 8a and the distal portion 8b are unable to stretch the wire element 5. The blocker 12 makes it possible to achieve a more precise adjustment of the length of the rod 8.

[0084] In yet another embodiment, a particular configuration of which is illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, the distal portion 8a and the proximal portion 8b are mounted to be movable relative to each other to define several stable positions of the distal portion 8b relative to the proximal portion 8a. In the particular configuration illustrated, the distal portion 8a and the proximal portion 8b define a groove and tongue device which makes it possible to define the length of the rod 8.

[0085] The distal portion 8b is preferably made in two parts with a first portion 8d and a second portion 8e. The two portions are not configured to adjust the length of the rod by a relative movement between the first portion 8d and the second portion 8e. The blocker 12 reduces the section available for the passage of the second portion 8e which has the effect of wedging the second portion 8e relative to the first portion 8d. The wedging of the second portion 8e pulls on the wire element 5. When the blocker 12 is disassembled, the second portion 8e provides sufficient space for the wire element which can deform to reduce the tensile stress value. The installation of the blocker 12 is obtained after having stretched the wire element to free the space intended to receive the blocker 12.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiments, the rod 8 is shown in the form of a telescopic rod 8. However, other embodiments are possible.

[0087] The use of a rod 8 whose length is adjustable is particularly advantageous for controlling the rigidity of the rod 8 perpendicular to the first direction XX by applying a constraint by means of the wire element 5. Such an embodiment facilitates manufacturing in the factory.

[0088] Such a configuration is particularly advantageous for manufacturing the cam locking device. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous for replacing the wire element of the cam locking device and / or the rod.

[0089] For the manufacture of a cam locking device, a cam locking device according to any one of the preceding configurations is provided. The rod 8 is lengthened so as to increase the distance between the head 1 and the annular end, which has the effect of applying a tensile force to the wire element 5 and a compressive force to the rod 8. The length of the rod 8 is fixed to the predefined length. The length of the rod is blocked by means of the blocker 12.

[0090] Such a configuration is particularly advantageous during a repair operation of the cam locking device. For example, if the rod 8 is damaged and must be changed, a variation in length between the initial rod and the new rod is easily compensated for by adjusting the length of the rod to the length of the wire element.

[0091] This configuration is particularly advantageous, in a desire to replace the wire element 5 which ensures mechanical continuity between the head and the annular end. The uncertainties on the dimension of the head, on the length of the wire element as well as on the length of the rod 8 mean that a locking device is never or almost never dismantled to proceed with the replacement of the wire element 5.

[0092] The provision of a variable length rod makes it possible to compensate for manufacturing hazards and thus to provide a new wire element 5 and preferably a replacement kit comprising a new wire element and a new rod.

[0093] A cam locking device is provided comprising a head 1 connected to an annular end 2 by a wire element 5 and a rod 8. As indicated above, the head 1 is provided with at least one cam3, at least one pivot shaft 4, at least one spring 11 and a trigger 7 mechanically linked to the at least one cam 3.

[0094] The rod 8 and the wire element 5 are removed. The new wire element 5 and the rod are hooked together to the head 1, the rod being crossed by the wire element 5. The rod 8 is lengthened so as to increase the distance between the head 1 and the annular end 2, which has the effect of applying a tensile force to the wire element 5 and a compressive force to the rod 8. The length of the rod 8 is fixed to the predefined length and the desired length is fixed by means of the blocker 12. Care must be taken to replace the rod in the corresponding hole of the trigger 7.

[0095] To facilitate the attachment of the wire element to the head, it is advantageous for the rod to be in the retracted position or in a position of small size. Then, the length of the rod 8 is extended to put the rod 8 under compression.

[0096] The replacement of the wire element can be carried out with limited equipment, which facilitates the performance of the replacement operation by dedicated operators or even by the user.

[0097] It is still possible to replace the rod 8 and the wire element 5 in order to adapt the length of the locking device to a specific need. A trigger extender 7 can then be considered if the length of the rod 8 and the length of the wire element 5 are increased significantly.

[0098] Figures 1 to 14 illustrate a rod 8 whose proximal end 8a is inserted into the head 1, more preferably into the body 1a of the head so that the proximal end 8a abuts against one of the components of the head 1. This embodiment is advantageous because it allows the proximal end to be easily installed and removed. When the rod 8 is not under compressive stress, the rod 8 can move in the first direction XX. Alternatively, the proximal portion 8a can be fixed directly to the head 1.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiments, the cam locking device has four cams 3. It is possible to use more or fewer cams 3. The illustrated configurations for the installation of the wire element 5 are applicable to locking devices which comprise one, two, three, four or more cams 3. The number of cams 3 can be even or odd. The cams 3 are preferably made of metallic material, for example aluminum alloy, or steel.

[0100] The rod 8 is preferably made of polymer material so as to be flexible in one or more directions perpendicular to the first direction XX.

[0101] The embodiments presented above are particularly advantageous for a wire element made of textile material whose duration is less than its metallic equivalent. Furthermore, the ring made of wire element 5 is manufactured in the factory with controlled sewing processes which makes it possible to ensure good mechanical strength of the wire element 5.

[0102] Preferably, the wire element 5 is in the form of a ring, it is advantageous to shape the ring to form a “U”. The figures illustrate a ring which is shaped, for example folded, in the form of a U with two legs 5a which each end in a loop 5b. There is also a connecting portion 5c which connects the two legs 5a. The connecting portion 5c is preferably a central portion 5c. Preferably, the seam 5d is located in the central portion in order to limit the space requirement in the head 1 or near the head 1. The two legs 5a of the “U”-shaped wire element pass through the rod 8 to open into the head 1 facing the anchor 6 in a direction perpendicular to the direction XX, here in the direction YY but another configuration is possible.

[0103] Preferably, each of the legs 5a is terminated by a loop 5b which is crossed by an anchoring shaft of the head 1.

[0104] Once installed in the cam lock device, the wire element 5 has a first loop 5c attached to the head 1. The first leg 5b extends from the head 1 to the annular end 2. The wire element 5 extends along the end annular 2 and returns to the head 1 by means of the second leg 5b. The application of a tensile force between the head 1 and the annular end 2 has the effect of putting the wire element 5 under tension. In the illustrated embodiment, there are four strands of the wire element which connect the head 1 to the annular end 2. More or fewer strands of wire elements are possible.

[0105] The connecting portion 5d extends along the annular end 2 while the two legs 5b each extend in the direction of the head 1.

[0106] Figures 1 to 13 illustrate embodiments in which the two loops 5b present at the two ends of the U-shaped folded ring are crossed by an anchoring shaft 6. For example, the anchoring shaft 6 is fixed to the body 1a of the head 1 by screwing, by crimping, by riveting. Depending on the embodiments, the anchoring shaft 6 is mounted removable or non-removable from the rest of the head 1. The two ends of the wire element 5 are inserted into the head 1. The anchoring shaft 6 passes through the two loops 5b and provides the two attachments of the wire element with the head 1. The anchoring shaft 6 is fixed at its two ends with the body 1a.

[0107] It is particularly advantageous to have an anchor shaft 6 mounted removably relative to the head 1 so as to have a wire element 5 which is easily replaceable. Dismantling the anchor shaft 6 makes it possible to remove the attachment between the wire element 5 and the head 1, which allows the wire element 5 to be replaced.

[0108] It is advantageous to have a head 1 which defines a blind hole to prevent the passage of the wire element 5 through the head in the first direction XX.

[0109] In an alternative embodiment, the anchor shaft 6 may not be removable. By preventing the anchor shaft 6 from being dismantled, safety is increased by preventing a cause of incorrect reassembly. The two legs 5b enter the body 1a and go around the anchor shaft 6. The two legs 5b emerge from the head 1 in the direction of the annular end 2 and the loops 5c at the ends of the two legs 5b are crossed by the annular end 2. By pulling on the wire element 5, a lark's head is formed around the anchor shaft 6 which fixes the wire element 1 with the head 1. This embodiment may be complicated to implement if the space in the head 1 is limited to achieve the sliding of the wire element 5 and the bypassing of the anchor shaft 4.

[0110] The anchor 6 may be destructible relative to the head. The destruction of the anchor 6 makes it possible to remove the mechanical connection between the wire element and the head. This makes it possible to replace one wire element with another wire element.

[0111] In order to facilitate the replacement of the wire element and / or the rod, it is advantageous to install the anchor below the space occupied by the at least one pivot shaft and occupied by the at least one cam. In other words, the anchor is not arranged opposite a pivot shaft and opposite at least one cam in a direction of observation which is parallel to the pivot axis of the at least one pivot shaft.

[0112] The anchor is arranged between the at least one cam and the annular end. Such an arrangement allows easier access to the anchor, which allows separation between the head 1 and the wire element without having to dismantle one or more cams, or one or more pivot shafts.

Claims

Claims

1. A cam locking device comprising: - a head (1); - at least one pivot shaft (4) fixed to the head (1); - at least one cam (3) coupled to the head (1) and mounted to pivot about the at least one pivot shaft (4), the at least one cam (3) being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; - a spring (11) coupled to the at least one cam (3) for urging the at least one cam (3) toward the extended position; - an annular end (2) mechanically coupled to the head (1), the annular end (2) being intended to receive a connection element; - a rod (8) extending from the head (1) to the annular end (2) in a first direction (XX), the rod (8) having a first end fixed to the head (1) and a second end totally or partially defining the annular end (2);- at least one wire element (5) continuously connecting the head (1) and the annular end (2), the at least one wire element (5) extending in the first direction (XX) and passing through the rod (8); - an actuation system (7) configured to selectively engage the retracted position of the at least one cam (3), the actuation system (7) having a trigger (7) mounted to slide along the first direction (XX);cam locking device characterized in that the rod (8) is a rod with adjustable length for applying a tensile force to the wire element (5) from the head (1) to the annular end (2), the rod (8) has at least one proximal part (8a) and one distal part (8b), the distal part (8b) being mounted movably relative to the proximal part (8a) to adjust the length of the rod, and in that at least one blocker (12) is configured to block the rod (8) at a desired length by blocking the position of the distal part (8b) relative to the proximal part (8a).;

2. A cam locking device according to claim 1 wherein the blocker (12) only blocks the distal portion (8b) relative to the proximal portion (8a) without jamming the wire element (5).

3. A cam locking device according to claim 2 wherein the wire element (5) is a textile wire element.

4. A cam locking device according to claim 3 wherein the wire element (5) is a textile wire element defining a sewn ring and the distal end (8b) comprises a tubular element, the wire element (5) passing through the tubular element (8b), two ends of the ring being fixed to the head (1).

5. Cam locking device according to one of claims 3 and 4 in which the wire element (5) is attached to the head (1) by an anchor, the anchor being arranged at a distance from the cams in an observation direction parallel to the pivot axis of the at least one pivot shaft, the anchor being arranged between the annular end and the at least one pivot shaft.

6. A cam locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein one of the proximal portion (8a) and the distal portion (8b) has a serrated portion (8c) and the other of the proximal portion (8a) and the distal portion (8b) has at least one tooth configured to fit into at least one of the serrations of the serrated portion (8c), the serrations of the serrated portion (8c) being arranged consecutively along the first direction (XX).

7. A cam locking device according to any one of claims 2 to 6 wherein the proximal portion extends from the head (1) to a portion of the annular portion (2), the blocker (12) partially defining the through hole of the annular end (2)

8. A cam locking device according to claim 7 wherein the proximal portion (8a) partially defines the through hole of the annular end (2).

9. A cam locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the rod (8) is a telescopic rod.

10. A cam locking device according to claim 9 wherein the proximal portion (8a) defines a plurality of adjustment stops, the distal portion (8b) being wedged against one of the plurality of adjustment stops.

11. A cam locking device according to claim 10 wherein, in the rest position, the trigger (7) faces said one stop of the plurality of adjustment stops.

12. A method of adjusting a wire element (5) of a cam locking device comprising the following steps: - providing a cam locking device according to any one of the re- claims 1 to 11; - lengthen the rod (8) to apply a tensile force and stretch the wire element (5) and apply a compressive force on the rod (8); - fix the length of the rod (8) which stretches the wire element (5).

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