Angular stroke adjustment device and support and guide system for rail saw

Abstract

The invention relates to an angular stroke adjustment device (10) for a support and guidance system (1) comprising a main arm (3) and a support arm (5), the angular stroke adjustment device (10) comprising a locking member (20) having a first stop surface (21) and a second stop surface (23) defining between them an angular support sector (s22), an actuating member (30) pivotally fixed with the support arm (5) and configured to occupy a support configuration (cs1, cs2, cs3), and a transfer member (40) fixed with the main arm (3) and configured to limit the pivoting of the main arm (3) in the angular support sector (s22), when the transfer member (40) cooperates with the actuating member (30) in the support configuration (cs1, cs2, cs3). The invention also relates to a support and guidance system (1) comprising such an angular stroke adjustment device (10).Figure 2.

Description

Title of the invention: Angular stroke adjustment device and support and guidance system for rail saw. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of railway maintenance, installation and upkeep equipment.

[0002] More particularly, the invention relates to an angular stroke adjustment device intended to equip a support and guidance system for a railway track or similar rail saw. State of the art

[0003] The prior art is known from French patent FR 2267418 which describes a support and guidance device for a chainsaw which includes a clamp for fixing to a rail attached to a main arm at the end of which is articulated around a horizontal articulation shaft, a support arm on which the chainsaw is finally articulated.

[0004] Since the dimensions of the rail often do not allow for cutting in a single pass, it is necessary to allow an operator to start cutting the rail from one side and then the other to ensure optimal cutting conditions. In particular, it is common for the operator to begin the cut from the top of the rail, generally supporting themselves above it, and then complete the cut transversely.

[0005] When cutting the upper part of the rail, it is preferable to have a relatively wide range of movement for the chainsaw to facilitate cutting the rail and also to avoid damaging the cutting disc during the cut. During this first step, since the chainsaw rests partially on the rail, its weight is partially supported by the rail, which makes the operator's work easier.

[0006] However, in order to avoid the risk of the chainsaw slipping and injuring the operator, it is known from the prior art to provide angular stop elements which lock the main arm of the support and guide device in pivoting.

[0007] To carry out the second part of the rail cut, transverse to its elongation axis, the operator must support more of the weight of the chainsaw because it no longer rests on the rail.

[0008] In order to relieve the operator, means of locking the main arm fixed relative to the vise have therefore been provided on support and guidance devices.

[0009] Although this solution is satisfactory in that it supports the weight of the chainsaw, it does not provide a sufficient angular range of cut to complete the rail cut. Furthermore, fixing the main arm in a fixed position generally involves acting on a part of the support and guide device near the cutting disc, which can be dangerous for the user.

[0010] To address these two constraints, it has been proposed to use support and guide devices comprising several ranges of angular sectors to allow the main arm to pivot according to the different cutting phases. In this case, the operator can position the main arm within one of these angular sectors to define the amplitude required for the cut during the corresponding cutting phase.

[0011] However, in the same way as when fixing the main arm relative to the fixing vise, the selection of the angular sector is always manual and requires touching elements of the support and guide device near the cutting disc.

[0012] There is therefore a need to find a support and guidance device in which the adaptation of cutting amplitudes is automated and without risk to the operator.

[0013] Object and invention

[0014] The present invention aims to provide a solution that addresses all or part of the aforementioned problems.

[0015] This objective can be achieved by implementing an angular stroke adjustment device intended to equip a support and guidance system for a rail cutter, said support and guidance system comprising a rail clamp, an articulated main arm mounted pivoting relative to the clamp about at least one main axis, and a support arm comprising, on the one hand, a mounting portion intended to allow the rail cutter to be fixed and, on the other hand, an articulated portion mounted pivoting relative to the main arm about an articulation axis, the angular stroke adjustment device comprising: - a locking device having at least a first stopping surface and at least a second stopping surface, a first stopping surface and a second stopping surface defining between them an angular support sector; - an actuating member intended to be pivotally fixed to the support arm and to be positioned at the articulation portion of the support arm, the actuating member being configured to occupy, by angular variation relative to the main arm, at least one support configuration or one release configuration, where each support configuration corresponds to an angular support sector; and - a transfer member intended to be pivotally fixed with the main arm and cooperating on the one hand with the actuating member and on the other hand with the locking member, the transfer member being configured to bear on the first stop surface or on the second stop surface so as to limit the pivoting of the main arm in the corresponding angular support sector, when the transfer member cooperates with the actuating member in the support configuration corresponding to said angular support sector, and being configured to allow free pivoting of the main arm around the main axis when the transfer member cooperates with the actuating member in the release configuration.

[0016] The above-described provisions allow for the provision of an angular stroke adjustment device that locks the main arm of the support and guidance system within a restricted angular sector. This enables the rail saw to at least partially support its weight when it moves transversely relative to the direction of rail elongation. The work of the rail saw operator is thus made easier, less strenuous, and safer.

[0017] The angular stroke adjustment device may also have one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the angular support sector extends around a vertical axis corresponding to the direction of gravity.

[0019] Thus, it is possible to maximize the support of the weight of the chainsaw by the main arm.

[0020] For example, the angular support sector is centered with respect to the vertical axis.

[0021] According to one embodiment, a value of the angular support sector is between 15° and 30°, and more particularly between 18° and 22°, and notably approximately equal to 20°.

[0022] Thus, it is possible to guarantee a sufficient range of motion to operate a cutting of the rail, while sufficiently limiting the pivoting of the main arm to support a greater part of the weight of the rail saw.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the locking member comprises a plurality of angular support sectors, each defined respectively by a first stopping surface and a second stopping surface.

[0024] For example, the locking element comprises: - an extended angular support sector, defined by a first external stopping surface and a second external stopping surface; - an intermediate support angular sector strictly smaller than the extended support angular sector, and defined by a first intermediate stopping surface and a second intermediate stopping surface; and - a restricted angular support sector smaller than the intermediate angular support sector, and defined by a first internal stopping surface and a second internal stopping surface.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the extended angular support sector is substantially equal to 65°, the intermediate angular support sector is substantially equal to 45°, and the restricted angular support sector is substantially equal to 22°.

[0026] According to one embodiment, at least one element selected from the locking member, the actuating member and the transfer member comprises steel.

[0027] In this way, it is possible to propose a more mechanically resistant angular stroke adjustment device, which makes it possible to support the mass of the rail saw.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the locking member comprises a metal plate including a recess, said recess forming on the one hand the first stopping surface and on the other hand the second stopping surface.

[0029] According to one embodiment, said metal plate extends in an extension plane substantially perpendicular to the main axis.

[0030] In this way, the locking member has a smaller footprint and a reduced weight.

[0031] Advantageously, the metal plate is a steel plate. Thus, it is possible to provide a locking element that is both compact and robust enough to support the locking of the main arm when it rests on the first stopping surface or on the second stopping surface during rail cutting.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the extension plane is perpendicular to an elongation axis of the rail.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the transfer member comprises an insertion rod, movable in translation along a radial direction defined perpendicular to the main axis, said insertion rod being configured to protrude towards the blocking member between the first stop surface and the second stop surface when the transfer member cooperates with the actuating member in the support configuration, and to retract out of the blocking member when the transfer member cooperates with the actuating member in the release configuration.

[0034] Thus, it is possible to vary between the release configuration and the support configuration with a simple mechanism.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the insertion rod comprises a first flat surface directed towards the first stopping surface and / or a second flat surface directed towards the second stopping surface when the transfer member cooperates with the actuating member in the support configuration.

[0036] In other words, the insertion rod comprises one or two opposing flats facing the first stop surface and / or the second stop surface when the insertion rod is inserted into the locking member.

[0037] Thus, it is possible to maximize the bearing surface between the insertion rod and the corresponding stop surface, which allows the stresses to be distributed over a larger area, and thus improve the mechanical contact between the two parts.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the transfer member includes at least one return device tending to bring the insertion rod out of the blocking member.

[0039] Thus, the insertion rod can automatically withdraw from the locking member when the actuating member changes from the support configuration to the release configuration.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the actuation member comprises a cam having, in a plane perpendicular to the axis of articulation, at least two different radii.

[0041] For example the cam includes a first radius corresponding to the release configuration, and a second radius strictly greater than the first radius corresponding to the support configuration.

[0042] In this way, it is possible to place the actuating member in the support configuration or in the release configuration depending on the angle it forms with the transfer member.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the cam has a constant radius equal to the first radius over a first angular interval counted around the articulation axis, and another constant radius equal to the second radius over a second angular interval counted around the articulation axis.

[0044] For example, the support configuration may correspond to the position of the cam when it cooperates with the transfer member at the level of a part having the second radius, and the release configuration may correspond to the position of the cam when it cooperates with the transfer member at the level of a part having the first radius.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the transfer member comprises a pusher element fixed in translation with the insertion rod, and configured to cooperate with the cam, in particular by sliding or rolling.

[0046] Thus, the pusher element allows the variable-radius rotational movement of the cam to be converted into a translational movement of the insertion rod. In this way, the relative position of the actuating member with respect to the member of transfer relative to the main arm) allows to automatically vary between the release configuration and the support configuration.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the pusher element is a roller.

[0048] Advantageously, the use of steel as the constituent material of the cam and the pusher element allows for steel-on-steel contact, which gives greater longevity to the parts rubbing against each other.

[0049] The object of the invention can also be achieved through the implementation of a support and guidance system for a rail saw comprising: - a rail fixing vise having a first stop surface and a second stop surface defining between them a main angular sector; - a main arm articulated relative to the clamping vise around at least one main axis and capable of pivoting angularly relative to the clamping vise in the main angular sector; - a support arm comprising, on the one hand, a fixing portion intended to allow the fixing of the rail saw, and on the other hand, a joint portion mounted to pivot relative to the main arm around a pivot axis, and - an angular stroke adjustment device of the type described above.

[0050] The provisions described above make it possible to propose a support and guidance system for rail saw allowing support for the weight of the rail saw when it cuts the rail transversely with respect to the direction of elongation of the rail.

[0051] The support and guidance system may also have one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the main arm is mounted pivotally relative to the fixing vise relative to the main axis.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the rail fixing vise includes the locking member.

[0054] Thus, the blocking function is carried by a single constituent element of the support and guidance system.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the main angular sector is strictly larger than the supporting angular sector(s).

[0056] In this way, the support and guidance system also allows for a large cutting amplitude when the rail saw cuts the upper part of the rail.

[0057] According to one embodiment, a value of the principal angular sector is between 55° and 75°, and more particularly between 63° and 65°, and in particular substantially equal to 64°.

[0058] Thus, it is possible to guarantee a sufficient range of motion to operate a cut in the rail, at the level of its upper part.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the clamping vise comprises a first fixed jaw and a second movable jaw pivoting relative to the clamping vise around a locking axis, the clamping vise comprising a locking device configured to block the rotation of the second jaw when it moves away from the first jaw.

[0060] In this way, the locking device allows the rail to be clamped between the first jaw and the second jaw.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the locking device comprises a removable support element, and a clamping screw, the clamping screw being configured to lock the second jaw in rotation when it bears against the support element.

[0062] Thus, it is possible to tighten the second jaw by tightening the clamping screw when it bears against the support element. Alternatively, it is possible to quickly loosen the clamping vise by removing the support element.

[0063] Brief description of the drawings

[0064] Other aspects, objectives, advantages and features of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof, given by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0065] [Fig-1] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a support and guidance system not showing the angular stroke adjustment device, according to a particular embodiment of the invention.

[0066] [Fig.2] Fig.2 is a schematic view of a support and guidance system according to a particular embodiment of the invention.

[0067] [Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a schematic view of a support and guidance system according to another embodiment of the invention in the release configuration.

[0068] [Fig.4] Fig.4 is a schematic view of the support and guidance system of the [Fig.3] in three different support configurations.

[0069] [Fig. 5] [Fig. 5] is a schematic view of a locking member for the device angular stroke adjustment of figures 3 and 4.

[0070] [Fig.6] Fig.6 is a schematic view of an actuation member corresponding to the locking mechanism of the [Fig.5].

[0071] [Fig.7] Fig.7 is a schematic view of a transfer member according to a mode of a particular implementation of the invention. Detailed description

[0072] In the figures and throughout the description, the same reference numerals represent identical or similar elements. Furthermore, the various elements are not drawn to scale in order to enhance the clarity of the figures. Moreover, the different embodiments and variations are not mutually exclusive and may be combined.

[0073] As can be seen in the figures, the invention relates to an angular stroke adjustment device 10 intended to equip a support and guide system 1 for rail saw as well as such a support and guide system 1.

[0074] As can be seen in [Fig. 1], the support and guidance system 1 includes a rail clamping vise 2. The clamping vise 2 generally comprises a first part whose function is to secure it to the rail. This part may include a first fixed jaw 7 and a second movable jaw 8, defining between them an opening configured to allow the insertion of the rail. The second jaw 8 is movable by pivoting relative to the clamping vise 2 about a locking axis X3, which is substantially parallel to an axis of elongation of the rail, and in particular substantially perpendicular to a vertical axis denoted "Z". The first jaw 7 can therefore be used to bear against the rail, and the second jaw 8 can be moved to clamp the rail and thus secure the clamping vise 2 to the rail.

[0075] Advantageously, the clamping vise 2 may include a locking device 50 configured to prevent the second jaw 8 from rotating when it moves away from the first jaw 7. More specifically, the locking device 50 may include a clamping screw 53 configured to press directly or indirectly on the second jaw 8, bringing it closer to the first jaw 7, or preventing it from moving away from the first jaw 7. In this way, the locking device 50 allows the rail to be clamped between the first jaw 7 and the second jaw 8. The locking device 50 may also include a removable support element 51, arranged between the second jaw 8 and the clamping screw 53. The clamping screw 53 is then configured to prevent the second jaw 8 from rotating when it bears against the support element 51. Thus, it is possible to clamp the second jaw 8 by tightening the clamping screw 53 via support element 51.Alternatively, it is possible to quickly loosen the clamping vise 2 by removing the support element 51.

[0076] On the side opposite the jaws 7, 8, there is a second part of the clamping vise 2 having a first stop surface sbl and a second stop surface sb2 defining between them a principal angular sector s2p. The principal angular sector s2p therefore defines an opening turned on the opposite side to that formed by the first jaw 7 and the second jaw 8.

[0077] The support and guidance system 1 further comprises a main arm 3 articulated relative to the clamping vise 2 about at least one main axis XL. The main arm 3 is therefore pivotally mounted relative to the clamping vise 2 with respect to the main axis XL. Generally, the main axis XI is substantially parallel to an axis of elongation of the rail; it is therefore also substantially parallel to the locking axis X3. The main arm 3 can extend between a proximal portion 3p located at the level of the main axis XI and a distal portion 3d, and is capable of pivoting angularly relative to the clamping vise 2 within the main angular sector s2p. For example, a value of the main angular sector s2p is between 55° and 75°, and more particularly between 63° and 65°, and notably substantially equal to 64°. Thus, it is possible to guarantee a sufficient range of motion to operate a cut in the rail, at the level of its upper part.

[0078] The support and guidance system 1 also includes a support arm 5 comprising on the one hand a fixing portion 6 intended to allow the fixing of the rail saw and on the other hand an articulation portion 4 mounted pivotally relative to the main arm 3 around an articulation axis X2.

[0079] As can be seen in the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1], the support arm 5 is articulated with the main arm 3 at the distal part 3d of the main arm 3, around the articulation axis X2. Generally, the articulation axis X2 is substantially parallel to the elongation axis of the rail, and is therefore substantially parallel to the main axis XI, and / or to the locking axis X3.

[0080] The support and guidance system 1 finally includes an angular stroke adjustment device 10 which is not shown on [Fig.1] for clarity, and which will be described below.

[0081] The arrangements described above make it possible to propose a support and guidance system 1 for rail saw allowing to have support of the weight of the rail saw when it cuts the rail transversely with respect to the direction of elongation of the rail.

[0082] Figures 2 to 4 illustrate two embodiments of the support and guidance system 1 in which the angular stroke adjustment device 10 is represented.

[0083] The angular stroke adjustment device 10 first includes a locking member 20 having at least one first stopping surface 21 and at least one second stopping surface 23. As illustrated in [Fig. 1], it is possible that the locking member 20 may include only one first stopping surface 21 and only one second stopping surface 23. Such a construction is not limiting, and it is possible that the locking member 20 may include several stopping surfaces 21, 23. Figures 3 and 4 illustrate an embodiment in which the locking member 20 comprises three first stopping surfaces 21a, 21b, 21c, and three second stopping surfaces 23a, 23b, and 23c. Regardless of the embodiment considered, these stopping surfaces 21, 23 define an angular support sector s22.

[0084] Generally, the angular support sector(s) s22 extend around the vertical axis Z, corresponding to the direction of gravity. Thus, it is possible to maximize the support of the chainsaw's weight by the main arm 3. For example, the angular support sector s22 is centered with respect to the vertical axis Z. Generally, the angular support sector is strictly smaller than the main angular sector s2p. In this way, the support and guide system 1 also allows for a large cutting range when the rail saw cuts the upper part of the rail.Although not exhaustive, it is possible for the angular sector of support s22 to be between 15° and 30°, and more specifically between 18° and 22°, and notably approximately equal to 20°. This allows for a sufficient range of motion to cut the rail, while limiting the pivoting of the main arm 3 sufficiently to support a greater portion of the weight of the rail cutter.

[0085] According to an embodiment not shown, it is possible that the rail clamping vise 2 comprises the locking member 20. For example, the locking member 20 can be formed in the material constituting the clamping vise 2 to form several openings having different opening angles, and thus form the main angular sector s2p, and the angular support sectors s22. Thus, the locking function is carried out by a single constituent element of the support and guide system 1.

[0086] It is therefore well understood that the locking member 20 and the vise can be included on the same part, or can be two separate parts.

[0087] As previously stated, Figures 3 and 4 illustrate an embodiment in which the locking member 20 comprises a plurality of angular support sectors s22, each defined respectively by a first stopping surface 21 and a second stopping surface 23. In order to allow for a progressive locking function by the locking member 20, it is advantageous for an angular value of the angular support sectors s22 to decrease as it approaches the principal axis XL

[0088] As illustrated in [Fig. 5], the locking member 20 may comprise: - an extended angular support sector s22a, defined by a first external stopping surface 21a and a second external stopping surface 23a; - an intermediate support angular sector s22b strictly smaller than the extended support angular sector s22a, and defined by a first surface an intermediate stopping surface 21b and a second intermediate stopping surface 23b; and - a restricted angular support sector s22c smaller than the intermediate angular support sector s22b, and defined by a first internal stopping surface 23c and a second internal stopping surface 23c.

[0089] For example, the extended angular support sector s22a can be substantially equal to 65°, the intermediate angular support sector s22b can be substantially equal to 45°, and the restricted angular support sector s22c can be substantially equal to 22°.

[0090] It is therefore well understood that the number of angular support sectors s22 is not limited and that each pair associating a first stopping surface 21 with the second stopping surface 23 which directly faces it defines one of the angular support sectors s22.

[0091] According to a non-limiting variant corresponding to the embodiments of Figures 2 to 5, the locking member 20 may comprise a metal plate extending in an extension plane substantially perpendicular to the principal axis XI. This metal plate may comprise a recess 25 forming on the one hand said at least a first stopping surface 21 and on the other hand said at least a second stopping surface 23. In this way, the locking member 20 has a smaller footprint and a reduced weight.

[0092] Advantageously, the metal plate is a steel plate. Thus, it is possible to provide a locking member 20 that is both compact and robust enough to support the locking of the main arm 3 when it rests on the first stopping surface 21 or on the second stopping surface 23 during rail cutting.

[0093] The angular stroke adjustment device 10 also includes an actuating member 30 intended to be pivotally fixed with the support arm 5 and to be disposed at the articulation portion 4 of the support arm 5. It is possible that the actuating member 30 and the support arm 5 form a single piece, or are two separate pieces.

[0094] The actuation member 30 is configured to occupy, by angular variation with respect to the main arm 3, at least one support configuration csl, cs2, cs3 or a release configuration denoted "cl", where each support configuration csl, cs2, cs3 corresponds to an angular support sector s22.

[0095] For example, the actuating member 30 may include a cam 31 having, in a plane perpendicular to the articulation axis X2, at least two different radii r31a, r31b, r31c, r311. In the embodiment of [Fig. 2], the cam 31 comprises a first radius r311 corresponding to the release configuration cl, and a second radius r31a strictly larger than the first radius r311 corresponding to the support configuration csl. In the alternative embodiment of [Fig. 6], the cam 31 comprises a first radius r311 corresponding to the release configuration cl, and three other radii r31a, r31b, r31c corresponding to three different support configurations cs1, cs2, cs3. Regardless of the variant chosen, it is possible to place the actuating member 30 in one of the support configurations cs1, cs2, cs3 or in the release configuration cl, depending on the angle it forms with the transfer member 40. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate, in particular, the actuating member 30 in the release configuration cl, and [Fig. 4] illustrates the actuating member in the support configurations cs1, cs2, and cs3.

[0096] Advantageously, it can be provided that the cam 31 has a constant radius equal to the first radius r311 over a first angular interval counted around the articulation axis X2, and another constant radius equal to the second radius r31a, r31b, r31c over a second angular interval counted around the articulation axis X2.

[0097] Finally, the angular stroke adjustment device 10 includes a transfer member 40 intended to be pivotally fixed with the main arm 3 and cooperating on the one hand with the actuating member 30 and on the other hand with the locking member 20.

[0098] When the transfer member 40 cooperates with the actuating member 30 in the support configuration csl, cs2, cs3, the transfer member 40 is configured to bear on the first stop surface 21 or on the second stop surface 23 so as to limit in pivoting the main arm 3 in the angular sector of support s22 corresponding to said support configuration csl, cs2, cs3.

[0099] Alternatively, the transfer member 40 is configured to allow free pivoting of the main arm 3 around the main axis XI when the transfer member 40 cooperates with the actuating member 30 in the release configuration cl. It is therefore well understood that in the release configuration cl, the pivoting of the main arm 3 around the main axis XI is not limited by the locking member 20. However, it is possible that the pivoting of the main arm 3 around the main axis XI may be limited by the stop surfaces sbl, sb2 of the clamping vise 2.

[0100] In general, the number of angular support sectors s22 is equal to the number of support configurations cs1, cs2, cs3. In the embodiment illustrated by [Fig. 4]: - the extended angular support sector s22a corresponds to the support configuration csl, and to the radius r31a of the cam 31; - the intermediate support angular sector s22b corresponds to the support configuration cs2 and the radius r31b of the cam 31; and - the restricted angular support sector s22c corresponds to the support configuration cs3 and the radius r31c of the cam 31.

[0101] Advantageously, the transfer member 40 comprises an insertion rod 41, movable in translation along a radial direction denoted "R" defined perpendicular to the principal axis XI, said insertion rod 41 being configured to protrude towards the locking member 20 between the first stopping surface 21 and the second stopping surface 23 when the transfer member 40 cooperates with the actuating member 30 in the support configuration cs1, cs2, cs3, and to retract out of the locking member 20 when the transfer member 40 cooperates with the actuating member 30 in the release configuration cl. Thus, it is possible to vary between the release configuration cl and the support configuration cs1, cs2, cs3 with a simple mechanism.

[0102] According to the embodiments illustrated in figures 2 to 4, the insertion rod 41 therefore links the cam 31 and the locking member 20. The larger the radius of the cam, the more the insertion rod 41 protrudes between the first and second surfaces 21, 23 of the locking member 20, and the smaller the value of the corresponding angular support sector s22.

[0103] Figure 7 illustrates more precisely a transfer member 40 according to an embodiment of the invention 40. On this variant, the insertion rod 41 has a first flat surface 42 directed towards the first stop surface 21 and / or a second flat surface 43 directed towards the second stop surface 23 when the transfer member 40 cooperates with the actuating member 30 in the support configuration cs1, cs2, cs3. In other words, the insertion rod 41 includes one or two opposing flats facing the first stop surface 21 and / or the second stop surface 23 when the insertion rod 41 is inserted into the locking member 20. Thus, it is possible to maximize the bearing surface between the insertion rod 41 and the corresponding stop surface, which allows the stresses to be distributed over a larger area, and thus improve the mechanical contact between the two parts.

[0104] Furthermore, as can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the transfer member 40 may include at least one return device 45 tending to bring the insertion rod 41 away from the locking member 20. In other words, depending on the configuration of the actuating member 30, the return device 45 tends to bring the insertion rod 41 back into the angular support sector s22 corresponding to said support configuration, or out of the angular support sectors s22 if the actuating member 30 is in the release configuration cl. Thus, the insertion rod 41 can automatically retract from the locking member 20 when the actuating member 30 changes from the support configuration cs1, cs2, cs3 to the release configuration cl.

[0105] Finally, the transfer member 40 may include a pusher element 47 fixed in translation with the insertion rod 41, and configured to cooperate with the cam 31, particularly by sliding or rolling. For example, the pusher element 47 is a roller. Thus, the pusher element 47 allows the variable radius rotational movement of the cam 31 to be converted into a translational movement of the insertion rod 41. In this way, the relative position of the actuating member 30 with respect to the transfer member 40 (i.e., of the support arm 5 with respect to the main arm 3) allows automatic variation between the release configuration c1 and the support configuration c1, c2, c3.

[0106] Generally, at least one element selected from the locking member 20, the actuating member 30, and the transfer member 40 comprises steel. In this way, it is possible to provide a more mechanically robust angular stroke adjustment device 10, which can support the mass of the rail saw. More specifically, the use of steel as the constituent material of the cam 31 and the pusher element 47 allows for steel-on-steel contact, which gives the parts in contact with each other greater longevity.

[0107] The arrangement described above allows for the provision of an angular stroke adjustment device 10 that locks the main arm 3 of the support and guide system 1 within an angular support sector s22. This enables the rail saw to be at least partially supported when it moves transversely relative to the direction of rail elongation. The work of the rail saw operator is thus made easier, less strenuous, and safer.

Claims

1. Demands Angular stroke adjustment device (10) intended to equip a support and guidance system (1) for a rail cutter, said support and guidance system (1) comprising a rail clamp (2), a main articulated arm (3) pivotally mounted relative to the clamp (2) about at least one main axis (XI), and a support arm (5) comprising, on the one hand, a fixing portion (6) intended to allow the rail cutter to be fixed and, on the other hand, an articulation portion (4) pivotally mounted relative to the main arm (3) about an articulation axis (X2), the angular stroke adjustment device (10) comprising: • a locking member (20) having at least a first stopping surface (21) and at least a second stopping surface (23), a first stopping surface (21) and a second stopping surface (23) defining between them an angular support sector (s22); • an actuating member (30) intended to be pivotally fixed to the support arm (5) and to be disposed at the articulation portion (4) of the support arm (5), the actuating member (30) being configured to occupy, by angular variation relative to the main arm (3), at least one support configuration (csl, cs2, cs3) or one release configuration (cl), where each support configuration (csl, cs2, cs3) corresponds to an angular support sector (s22); and • a transfer member (40) intended to be pivotally fixed to the main arm (3) and cooperating on the one hand with the actuating member (30) and on the other hand with the locking member (20), the transfer member (40) being configured to bear against the first stopping surface (21) or on the second stopping surface (23) so as to limit the pivoting of the main arm (3) in the corresponding angular support sector (s22), when the transfer member (40) cooperates with the actuating member (30) in the support configuration (cs1, cs2, cs3) corresponding to said angular support sector (s22), and being configured to allow pivoting free of the main arm (3) around the main axis (XI) when the transfer member (40) cooperates with the actuating member (30) in the release configuration (cl).

2. Angular stroke adjustment device (10) according to claim 1, wherein a value of the angular sector of support (s22) is between 15° and 30°, and more particularly between 18° and 22°, and in particular substantially equal to 20°.

3. Angular stroke adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the locking member (20) comprises a metal plate including a step (25), said step (25) forming on the one hand the first stopping surface (21) and on the other hand the second stopping surface (23).

4. Angular stroke adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transfer member (40) comprises an insertion rod (41), movable in translation along a radial direction (R) defined perpendicular to the principal axis (XI), said insertion rod (41) being configured to protrude towards the locking member (20) between the first stop surface (21) and the second stop surface (23) when the transfer member (40) cooperates with the actuating member (30) in the support configuration (cs1, cs2, cs3), and to retract out of the locking member (20) when the transfer member (40) cooperates with the actuating member (30) in the release configuration (c1).

5. Angular stroke adjustment device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the insertion rod (41) comprises a first flat surface (42) directed towards the first stop surface (21) and / or a second flat surface (43) directed towards the second stop surface (23) when the transfer member (40) cooperates with the actuating member (30) in the support configuration (cs1, cs2, cs3).

6. Angular stroke adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the transfer member (40) includes at least one return device (45) tending to bring the insertion rod (41) away from the locking member (20).

7. Angular stroke adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the actuating member (30) comprises a cam (31) having in a plane perpendicular to the articulation axis (X2), at least two different radii (r31a, r31b, r31c, r311).

8. Angular stroke adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 6 and according to claim 7, in which the transfer member (40) comprises a pusher element (47) fixed in translation with the insertion rod (41), and configured to cooperate with the cam (31), in particular by sliding or rolling.

9. A support and guidance system (1) for a rail cutter comprising: • a rail clamping vise (2) having a first stop surface (sbl) and a second stop surface (sb2) defining between them a main angular sector (s2p); • a main arm (3) articulated relative to the clamping vise (2) about at least one main axis (XI) and capable of pivoting angularly relative to the clamping vise (2) in the main angular sector (s2p); • a support arm (5) comprising, on the one hand, a fixing portion (6) intended to allow the rail cutter to be fixed, and on the other hand, an articulation portion (4) mounted pivotally relative to the main arm (3) about an articulation axis (X2); and • an angular stroke adjustment device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. Support and guidance system (1) according to claim 9, wherein the rail fixing vise (2) includes the locking member (20).

11. Support and guidance system (1) according to any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein the main angular sector (s2p) is strictly larger than the angular support sector(s) (s22).

12. Support and guidance system (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein a value of the principal angular sector (s2p) is between 55° and 75°, and more particularly between 63° and 65°, and in particular substantially equal to 64°.

13. Support and guidance system (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the clamping vise (2) comprises a first jaw (7) fixed and a second jaw (8) movable in pivoting relative to the clamping vise (2) around a locking axis (X3), the clamping vise (2) comprising a locking device (50) configured to lock in rotation the second jaw (8) when it moves away from the first jaw (7).

14. Support and guidance system (1) according to claim 13, wherein the locking device (50) comprises a removable support element (51), and a clamping screw (53), the clamping screw (53) being configured to lock the second jaw (8) in rotation when it bears against the support element (51).