Energy guide chain made of plastic and having laterally stabilized plate

Abstract

To provide an energy guide chain made of plastic and having a laterally stabilized plate.SOLUTION: Retaining projection parts (121A, 121B) are spatially limited to an intermediate height section of a plate height, and also have dimensions limited in a circumferential direction having a swivel axis (A) in the center. Arcuate guide regions (120A, 120B) therefore have only small parts of, preferably, ≤33% of their arc lengths or angle widths superposed with the retaining projection parts (121A, 121B), and still do not have their major parts of, specifically, 66% of their arc lengths or angle widths superposed with the retaining projection parts (121A, 121B) (namely, laterally open). This makes it specially easy to assemble and mutually connect chain plates.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of energy guide chains for dynamic guidance of wires between two connection points that are movable relative to each other. Energy guide chains typically have chain links each including two opposing plates (also known as side plates or side pieces) that are permanently or releasably connected to each other by at least one, and generally two, cross pieces. The chain links define an internal receiving space for guiding wires, such as cables for signal or power supply or pneumatic or hydraulic hoses.

[0002] The invention relates to the structure or design of the link plates themselves, in particular plates made from plastic material, particularly preferably by injection molding. Two types have proven to be very effective, especially in energy guide chains with plastic plates. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the first type, the energy guide chain, as described for example in WO 95 / 04231, has two plate trains, each constructed from two different types of plates, i.e. consisting of a repetition of inner and outer plates, in each case of different configuration. In this case, the inner plate has an inner overlapping area facing the inside of the chain, and the outer plate has an outer overlapping area. Adjacent plates overlap on one side in each case by means of their overlapping area and are suitably connected articulatedly in the overlapping area so as to be swivelable relative to each other about a pivot in a plane. The swivelable connection typically takes the form of a stud / hole or pin / recess rotary joint. Each plate of the first type is typically flat in plan view, the overlapping area at the end lying in the plane.

[0004] In the second type, the energy guide chain has two plate trains, which in each case are built up from identical "offset" plates, in particular made of plastic material. Such plates have a first overlapping area on the inside and a second overlapping area staggered or offset laterally outwardly with respect to the first overlapping area, as can be seen in DE 3531066 A1 or US 4813224 A1. In plan view, the offset plates generally have a profile resembling an elongated Z-shape. The offset plates are also connected to one another pivotally in a plane, with the overlapping areas overlapping on one side, also typically by means of a pin / cage swivel joint.

[0005] The invention is equally applicable to plates made of both plastic materials of the above-mentioned types. In the case of the second type, typically similarly constructed offset plates are used in each series of plates, the offset plates of one series being mirror symmetrical to the offset plates of the opposing series. In an energy guide chain including inner / outer plates or plates of the first type, each plate may be usable in each series of plates, as proposed in WO 98 / 46906. Furthermore, in the case of the first type, it is possible to configure the plates of the first type so that they are usable when the plates in each series are rotated by 180°, in order to define different stop angles depending on the orientation, for example for the purpose of providing pretension. The invention is particularly advantageously, but not exclusively, applicable to inner plates of this type.

[0006] The common link plates of both types of plastic material, i.e. alternately connectable inner / outer plates or offset plates, are in each case embodied for one-sided overlap of adjacent overlapping areas. The invention therefore does not relate to "fork-shaped" plates. This radically different design has a fork-shaped end that is approximately U-shaped in plan view, and adjacent plates engage in this fork-shaped end and overlap on both sides. This design has not been established in any case in the case of plastic plates, inter alia, due to the high material requirements and the resulting weight.

[0007] In energy guide chains, especially in freestanding applications (where the upper run extends in a freestanding manner over the lower run), strong lateral forces or torques occur which require high lateral stability of the plate connections in case of long travel paths or indeed in horizontal applications. This is especially important when the plates overlap only on one side. It is essential, for example, to prevent the articulated joint from coming loose due to lateral forces during operation.

[0008] For the first chain type, as proposed in US Pat. No. 5,399,633, it has been proposed, for example, that the ends of the crosspieces on at least the outer plates are flared out in a manner such that they engage on the overlapping areas of adjacent inner plates and at the same time act as a safety device preventing the plates from separating transversely to the longitudinal direction.

[0009] In order to increase the lateral stability of the two plate types, the applicant proposed a more extensive solution in EP 0 803 032 B1 or US 5 980 409 B1. It is proposed here for both types that in each case the two plates are continuous with one another in the plate series, one plate engaging in the space behind the projecting retaining projection of the other plate by means of a circular-arc-shaped guide area extending parallel to the pivot plane. The engagement of the guide area of ​​one plate behind the retaining projection on the other plate results in a higher lateral stability. [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] This prior art (considered to be state of the art) has proven effective in increasing the lateral stability of a typical energy guide chain according to US Pat. No. 5,399,633. However, this prior art has some limitations related to the plate configuration, in particular the design latitude of the limit stop required for limiting the swivel angle and / or the dimensioning of the pins or receivers for the swivel joints. When assembling a series of plates, it is essential that the plates are assembled with an oblique lead-in direction for the purpose of inserting the guide area into the guide groove extending over approximately 180°. However, the play-free engagement behind the retaining projections entails a relatively acute or very small insertion angle of the plate with the guide area into the plate with the retaining projection. This acute lead-in or insertion angle thus does not allow any desired position of the limit stop for limiting the swivel angle in the overlap region and likewise limits the dimensioning of the laterally projecting swivel pins.

[0011] To compensate, it has already been proposed in US Pat. No. 5,399,633 to provide chamfered edges or insertion bevels, inter alia, on the hinge pin, on the retaining projection and on a subportion of the guide region, so that the insertion angle can be slightly enlarged. This proposal is only satisfactory to a certain extent. Moreover, it does not allow for much free arrangement and number of the stop projections or corresponding cutouts on the overlap region. In addition, the complexity of the plate geometry is increased.

[0012] On the other hand, the geometrical complexity of the side plates according to US Pat. No. 5,999,523, in particular the production of the guide grooves with sufficiently small tolerances, requires complex injection molding tools with moving parts such as sliders for undercuts etc. This in turn increases the cost of the tool, makes the tool more prone to breakdowns during operation and also requires relatively long cycle times on the injection molding machine.

[0013] DE 112016001315 A1 describes plastic plates which can only partially engage with one another at the two end positions of the plates which can be pivoted relative to one another, so that reliable lateral stabilization cannot be achieved over the entire length or all operating states.

[0014] EP 2005025 or US 7877978 describe plates made of metal, in particular two-dimensional sheet metal plates, which have protrusions produced by deformation, for example by deep drawing, on the back side of which the next plate engages. However, the design and production of sheet metal plates cannot be applied to plastic plates without further ado. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] It is therefore a first object of the present invention to further develop a generic energy guide chain or link plate, in particular made of a plastic material, with a lateral stabilizing function, with the advantage of increased design freedom, in particular with regard to the swivel angle limiting stops and / or the swivel joint connections. Preferably, a link plate design is proposed at the same time, which allows for simplified in-mold production compared to the prior art, i.e. reduces the production costs.

[0016] This is achieved simply in that, according to the invention, the retaining protrusion has a significantly shorter dimension in the swivel direction compared to the prior art, in particular compared to the dimension of the arc-shaped guide area in the circumferential direction, at least compared to the effective or engaging dimension over the entire swivel angle. That is to say, the retaining protrusion, which extends over a significantly shorter dimension in the circumferential direction around the arc of the swivel movement, ensures that the engaging plate can be inserted behind said retaining protrusion of the retaining plate at a significantly larger angle relative to the plate plane of the retaining plate. This, inter alia, allows for greater design freedom with regard to the size and / or arrangement of the protruding functional components in the overlap area, in particular with regard to the number and dimensioning of the stop protrusions and / or the dimensioning of the swivel pin.

[0017] Thus, according to the invention, the first object can be achieved simply in that each retaining protrusion is of limited dimensions in the circumferential direction about the pivot axis, so that the arc-shaped guide area of ​​the engaging plate is not overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusion to a great extent, in particular with respect to its effective circumferential dimension and in each pivot position, irrespective of the pivot position or in each pivot position. This can be achieved geometrically defined if each retaining protrusion is of limited dimensions in the circumferential direction with respect to the relative pivoting movement or about the adjacent pivot axis, so that the arc-shaped guide area of ​​the adjacent or engaging plate is not overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusion over a predominant proportion of the arc length or angular width of the arc-shaped guide area. This is intended to occur irrespective of the pivot position or in any relative pivot position of the two plates, in order to simplify the assembly from various directions. In this case, it can be particularly realized that due to the limited dimensions of the retaining protrusion in the circumferential direction, in the overall sense, at least two-thirds or more of the arc-shaped guide area is not overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusion, respectively. Here, the arc length of a guide area that is configured to be substantially arc-shaped in the swivel plane is understood to be at least the arc length that is effective or engages over the entire extent of the permissible relative swivel movement, said arc length being dependent on the swivel angle limit, beyond which, in the case of a conventional arc-shaped guide area, its entire arc length (corresponding to the maximum swivel angle offered or the minimum deflection arc) is always taken into account in particular with respect to the relevant swivel axis, i.e. the center point of the arc shape.

[0018] In this case, the arc length at the front end of the guide area is considered in particular. When considering the angle, the position of the considered arc is irrelevant. In other words, in the present invention, the first objective can therefore be achieved simply in that each retaining protrusion is delimited in the circumferential direction with respect to the relative pivoting movement, so that the arc-shaped guide area of ​​the engaging plate is never overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusion over a large portion of the angular width of the arc-shaped guide area or remains laterally free towards the outside.

[0019] As a corollary, the objective can therefore be achieved simply in that the retaining protrusion is delimited in the circumferential direction relative to the pivot axis in such a way that in any pivot position the arc-shaped guide region is overlapped by the retaining protrusion over only a relatively small percentage of its arc length or only a small percentage of its angular width, for example less than one third. In short, the retaining protrusion has a relatively short structural length effective for engagement in this circumferential direction. This structural length can be minimized to a dimension required for lateral stability. The arc length or angular width of the retaining protrusion effective for engagement can in particular represent a uniformly small percentage of the arc length or angular width of the guide region, preferably <1 / 3 or 33%, in any relative pivot position of the plates.

[0020] According to a further independent approach to solving the problem, the objective is achieved simply, irrespective of the dimensioning of the guide area, in that all or each of the retaining projections of the plate serving for lateral stabilization are dimensioned so that they are located only within an angular range α of <60°, preferably ≦45°, divided by the longitudinal central plane of the plate around the adjacent pivot axis (i.e. with the apex of the angle on this pivot axis). In this case, the adjacent pivot axis denotes the pivot axis of the overlapping area on which the respective retaining projection lies or projects. Here, the longitudinal central plane of the plate denotes a plane that includes or is defined by both pivot axes of the plate under consideration and extends in the length direction, regardless of the center position. In the following, the vertical central plane denotes the central plane of the plate that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the plate.

[0021] Simplicity of assembly or greater design freedom would avoid this arrangement by having any retaining protrusions or sub-regions provided on the plates outside the above mentioned angular ranges, this being especially true for both sides of an offset plate or both overlap regions of an inner / outer plate.

[0022] The retaining protrusions therefore do not engage over a large portion of the arc length of the guide region, as is still proposed by the preferred example from US Pat. No. 5,399,323, but rather always only engage over a relatively small portion. In this case, the retaining protrusions may be spatially limited in particular to a central subregion or a vertical portion of the plate height.

[0023] Preferably, exactly one retaining protrusion is provided for each overlapping region to be retained, said protrusion being preferably arranged centrally with respect to the plate height, in particular symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal central plane of the plate. A division comprising, for example, two smaller retaining protrusions within a limited angular range α of <60°, preferably ≦45° about the adjacent pivot axis is also conceivable. Furthermore, the retaining protrusions can take a wide variety of forms.

[0024] The configuration according to the invention is equally applicable to a first type of chain or plate according to the preamble of claim 1 and / or 2 or 3, or to a second type of chain or plate, in particular to plastic plates, according to the preamble of claim 4 and / or 5. The features relating to lateral stabilization defined above or in these claims are not only to be regarded individually as essential to the invention, but are in principle mutually replaceable and individually combinable.

[0025] Regardless of the plate type, the overlapping regions are connected together, for example by a centrally located central region, typically found at the mid-division point of the length of the chain links. The central region typically has, at least in certain locations, a (wall) thickness perpendicular to the turning plane that is greater than the thickness in the overlapping regions. The retaining projections preferably project integrally from or are integrally connected to the central region. Thus, each retaining projection can preferably be connected to the remainder of the body of the plate via a connection region that has an even greater (wall) thickness than the retaining projection.

[0026] The plate according to the invention is either an inner or outer plate (first type) or an offset plate (second type) and is particularly preferably made of plastic material by injection moulding, in particular in one piece or from one shot. The term plastic plate here denotes a plate which is produced at least to a large extent or entirely of plastic material, preferably by injection moulding, in particular by the method of base moulding from a plastic state (see DIN 8580).

[0027] In the case of plates of the first type, the retaining projections are preferably provided at least on the outer side of the inner plate, into which the guide areas of the overlapping outer plate engage. On the other hand, the lateral stabilization of the end areas of the inner plate can be achieved simply by suitable crosspieces or opening bars on the outer plate, i.e. further retaining projections on the outer plate are only advantageous to a certain extent. However, in the arrangement proposed here, retaining projections can also or instead be provided on the inner side of the outer plate.

[0028] Pivot pins or matching pivot pin receivers for forming a rotational or swivel joint connection may alternatively be provided equally well on the inner or outer overlap areas, regardless of plate type.

[0029] In one preferred embodiment, the retention protrusions are delimited in a circumferential direction about the pivot axis adjacent or proximal to the engaging guide region, so that the arc-shaped guide region is covered at each pivot position over a maximum angle about the pivot axis that is <60°, preferably ≦45°. The minimum angular width of overlap allows a maximum insertion angle during assembly of the plates.

[0030] In order to achieve the minimum most material-saving ratio between the engaged or covered arc area of ​​the guide area and the free arc area of ​​the guide area in terms of the pivot plane, it is advantageous for the radial engagement depth of the arc-shaped guide area in the space covered by the retaining protrusion to be relatively shallow, which may in particular be less than 15%, preferably less than 12.5%, of the arc radius of the guide area measured from the front edge of the guide area to the pivot axis of the guide area.

[0031] In addition to reducing undercuts, a particularly advantageous simplification of the mold can be achieved if all the retaining protrusions at least partially cover the plate openings that extend from the inside of the retaining protrusions through the central region of the plate to the remote side surface of the plate. If the retaining protrusions are formed over the openings through the plate, no slider is required to create the undercuts. Nevertheless, the openings through the side plates can be advantageously configured in such a way that the insertion angle can be further enlarged, since the mating plate can partially protrude into the openings that open into the space during the introduction into the space behind the retaining protrusions.

[0032] A design with plate openings associated with the retaining protrusions is particularly advantageous in the case of inner or outer plates of a relatively shallow construction. In this case, two retaining protrusions spaced apart from each other are preferably provided to cover a common plate opening through the central area. For stability, the opposing retaining protrusions may be formed integrally with a reinforcing material bridge over the plate opening, which bridges the plate opening, for example, in the direction of the plate height. This geometry can be produced directly in one mold tool half by means of fixed protrusions shaped to fit the opening and, if appropriate, the bridge. Additionally or instead, for example, for a material bridge to be provided in the longitudinal direction of the plate, and for each retaining protrusion configured as two parts or with an interruption, for example, in the vertical central plane of the plate, it is further possible to maintain the tensile strength despite the plate opening on only one side.

[0033] For strength, a suitable plate opening should have a contour without edges in the plate main plane or in the pivot plane, the contour being preferably substantially elliptical, and in any event may be completely rounded.

[0034] The plate opening in the contour line is preferably constructed so that it coincides exactly with or is flush with the free end of the retaining protrusion, i.e. the edge of the plate opening facing the overlap area fits in each case with the protruding edge of the retaining protrusion, which, among other things, prevents undesirable gaps in relation to the inner space.

[0035] The short active length of the retaining projections offers greater design freedom in terms of the pivot stop in both plate types compared to US Pat. No. 5,399,633. For example, in one embodiment, an overlapping region has at least three, preferably four, stop projections which are manufactured integrally with the plate body and in each case form two mutually spaced flat stop surfaces, preferably perpendicular to the pivot plane. Correspondingly, the complementary overlapping region can have at least three, preferably four corresponding stop pockets for receiving the stop projections, which are provided, for example, as recesses in the plate body and in each case form two opposing flat stop surfaces, preferably perpendicular to the pivot plane, for the pivot angle limitation with the corresponding stop surfaces of the stop projections. The stop projections or stop pockets are preferably distributed in this case uniformly or rotationally symmetrically around the pivot axis. It is thus particularly possible to arrange the stop elements, such as stop projections and stop pockets, completely or partially in the inner sub-regions of the respective overlapping regions, in particular in the quadrants around the pivot axis which itself includes the central region of the plate or the retaining projection. In addition, a larger stop surface, and therefore the total area, also increases the permissible load or the self-supporting length.

[0036] In one embodiment, the overlap region, which engages with its guide region in the space of the retaining projection, has in each case an integrally made stop projection and a pivot pin, in which case the stop projection and the pivot pin or the pivot receiver can be positioned transversely and alternately relative to the guide region in the transverse direction and / or can project from opposite pivot planes of the retaining projection.

[0037] To avoid interference with the edges, the retaining protrusions preferably do not protrude laterally beyond the outer surface of the plate. The retaining protrusions may in this case be arranged laterally to the outside or to the inside on the link plate and preferably terminate flush with the outer plate surface. In the case of the first type, the retaining protrusions are preferably arranged at least on the outside of the central region of the inner plate. In the case of offset plates, the retaining protrusions may be provided on the plate especially on the inside of the central region.

[0038] The retaining projection preferably has an inner retaining surface for overlapping the guide region, which surface is embodied at least to the great extent, in particular almost or completely, parallel to the pivot plane. Due to the inventive dimensioning of the retaining projection, the inner retaining surface can in particular be embodied without an internal insertion bevel.

[0039] With regard to the advantageous arrangement and dimensioning of the retaining protrusions, further developments provide that each retaining protrusion is embodied mirror-symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal central plane of the plate and / or that each retaining protrusion is centrally arranged with respect to the plate height, in particular at the same distance in each case from the opposite narrow side of the plate, both of which serve inter alia to prevent twisting forces during operation. Each retaining protrusion preferably has an effective height dimension, which preferably amounts to a maximum of 40% of the plate height. Here, the effective height dimension indicates the height that can actually be engaged on the back side by a suitable guide area.

[0040] Furthermore, a lateral wall region without a protrusion may be arranged on each side mirror-symmetrically to the retaining protrusion, which in particular extends substantially perpendicular to the pivot plane and adjoins the retaining protrusion. Each lateral wall region preferably has an arc-shaped path, in particular in the part adjacent to the retaining protrusion, and extends concavely to the adjacent pivot axis with only a small gap to the opposite guide region of the plate with which it engages. Each lateral wall region without a protrusion can in each case have an angular width in the circumferential direction about the adjacent pivot axis, which angular width is equal to or greater than the effective coverage angle of the retaining protrusion. In the case of a plate opening, such a lateral wall region without a protrusion can be discontinued towards the plate center at this opening.

[0041] In one embodiment, the edge of the retaining projection projecting towards the adjacent pivot axis has at least one sub-portion that projects substantially convexly outwards towards the pivot axis. A convex projection has the advantage that no precise orientation is required for assembly and that a maximum area of ​​over-engagement is achievable. The central height portion of the edge can be convexly curved or, for example, in a straight embodiment. The projecting edge should in any case not project longitudinally more than is permitted by the maximum achievable insertion angle.

[0042] Furthermore, the arc-shaped guide area for engaging behind the retaining protrusion may be an arc segment projecting at the front end on the overlap area, which has a constant cross section substantially over the entire arc length or angular width of the segment (possibly with the exception of the end transition). This cross section is preferably recessed with respect to the outer surface of the overlap area or the minimum wall thickness of the overlap area is smaller compared to the adjacent areas of the overlap area. Furthermore, the arc segment may have a flat outer surface on the outside and an insertion bevel, preferably a conical inner surface tapering towards the front end, on the inside, in order to further increase the insertion or introduction angle. Furthermore, the arc segment may have a smaller thickness compared to the adjacent parts of the overlap area, which should be only a small fraction of the maximum wall thickness of the adjacent parts of the overlap area, in particular at most 50% (in this case the adjacent parts have no material recess). Furthermore, the arc-shaped guide regions and the pivot pins or pivot receivers can be arranged on the plates laterally staggered relative to one another in the transverse direction, i.e. without intersecting when viewed parallel to the pivot plane.

[0043] In principle, the retaining projections and / or the guide regions can be arranged such that the guide regions engage into the spaces of the retaining projections over substantially the entire range of the relative pivot angle of the two pivotally connected plates, i.e. are laterally held by the retaining projections in each intended pivot position, which also allows a long-life lateral or horizontal self-supporting use of the energy chain.

[0044] The above described embodiments are particularly advantageously applicable to link plates for energy chains which are made in one piece from an injection-moldable plastic material, in particular a fibre-reinforced thermoplastic.

[0045] The invention not only relates to energy guide chains of the first or second type, but also to individual link plates and the connections of pairs thereof for energy guide chains, in each case with lateral stabilization according to the invention.

[0046] Further features and advantages of the present invention can be deduced from the more detailed description of preferred exemplary embodiments given below, purely by way of example, and based on the attached drawings, without limiting the scope of protection. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0047] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a side view of the inner plate of the first embodiment according to the invention, taken from the outside, away from the inside of the chain. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is a view of the inner plate of the first embodiment according to the invention, in a side view from the inside of the chain. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is a view of the inner plate of the first embodiment according to the invention, a partial longitudinal section of two symmetrical retaining projections along the section line CC of FIG. 1B. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view from the outside of an outer plate that fits onto the inner plate according to FIGS. 1A-1C. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a perspective view from the inside of an outer plate that fits onto the inner plate according to FIGS. 1A-1C. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of a plate pair including an inner plate according to FIGS. 1A-1C and an outer plate according to FIGS. 2A-2B. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3D is a partial longitudinal cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 1C, but with the outer plate inserted as shown in FIG. 3A, to illustrate lateral stabilization by engagement behind the retention protrusions. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a schematic side view from the outside of an offset plate according to a second exemplary embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0048] 1A-3A show an inner plate 101 and an outer plate 102 in a first embodiment for constructing a series of plates of an energy guide chain (see FIG. 3A) through alternating connections of the inner and outer plates 101, 102. For details of an energy guide chain comprising different inner and outer plates known per se, reference is made to US Pat. No. 5,399,411, US Pat. No. 5,499,421, or US Pat. No. 5,499,431, the relevant teachings of which are hereby incorporated by reference for the sake of brevity.

[0049] The inner plate 101 has two overlapping areas 103A, 103B that are mirror-symmetrical with respect to a cross section through the plate center (vertical central plane M of the plate), which overlapping areas form a closed surface facing the inside of the energy guide chain (Fig. 1B). The overlapping areas 103A, 103B cooperate with complementary mirror-symmetric overlapping areas 104A, 104B (Figs. 2A-2B) of the outer plate 102. Between the overlapping areas 103A and 103B and between the overlapping areas 104A and 104B there is in each case arranged a central area 105 or 106 that protrudes outwardly or inwardly and has a thicker wall thickness in place.

[0050] To form an articulated joint that articulates the plates 101, 102 in each case about their pivot axis A (perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 1A / 1B) in such a way that they can be pivoted, the outer side surfaces of the overlapping parts 103A, 103B each have a central pin receiver 112 coaxial with the pivot axis A, into which in each case a matching central pivot pin 110 of the overlapping overlapping area 104A, 104B of the outer plate 102 engages. Here, the pivot pin 110 is embodied on the outer plate 102 in the manner of a hollow shaft to save material and projects centrally in one piece from the inside of the overlapping area 104A, 104B (Fig. 2B). In this way, a further pin 113 that projects coaxially in the pin receiver 112 can engage in the cavity of the pivot pin 110 to increase the tensile strength of the joint. Particularly noteworthy is the relatively large outer diameter of the pivot pin 110, which here amounts to, for example, 35% of the plate height H. In a manner known per se, the chain links are created by connecting two opposing inner and outer plates 101, 102 using crosspieces. For this purpose, identically constructed crosspieces (not shown), the length of which predetermines the inner width, are attached to the fixing lugs 109. The identically constructed fixing lugs 109 project towards the inside and are arranged in the center of each of the central regions 105 or 106 at the longitudinal midpoint. Suitable crosspieces are preferably flared at their ends so that the crosspieces, which in each case are fastened to the central region 106 of the outer plate 102, overlap and engage the inner walls of the adjacent overlapping regions 103A, 103B of the inner plate 101.

[0051] To delimit the pivot angle or to adjust the chain radius or pretension in the deflection arc of the energy guide chain (not shown), four identical stop projections 107 are provided here in each case on the inside of the outer plate 102 and project parallel to the pivot pin 110. The stop projections 107 are made integral with the body of the outer plate 102 and are rotationally symmetrical or evenly distributed around the pivot axis A. Each stop projection 107 is approximately trapezoidal in cross section and in each case forms two largely flat first stop surfaces 107A, 107B on its long sides, which first stop surfaces 107A, 107B face opposite each other. Correspondingly, each of the overlapping areas 103A, 103B of the inner plate 101 has four stop pockets 108, rotationally symmetrical with respect to the pivot axis A, for receiving the stop projections 107. The stop pockets 108 are provided in the plate body here as recesses or cutouts (FIG. 1A) on the outer side of the overlapping areas 103A, 103B of the inner plates. Each stop pocket 108 forms a mostly flat counter stop surface 108A, 108B due to a corresponding stop surface 107A, 107B on the engaging stop projection 107. The pivot angle range is determined, among other things, by the open angular width around the pivot axis A between the facing counter stop surfaces 108A, 108B. Furthermore, the counter stop surfaces 108A, 108B are firmly connected by a pocket bottom (see FIG. 1B), which closes the stop pocket 108 on the inner side. The replacement of the stop projections and pivot pins on the inner plate with the corresponding receivers on the outer plate is in principle equivalent.

[0052] In comparison with the state of the art, it is necessary here in particular to take into account the fact that the inner half of each overlapping area 103A, 103B facing the central area 105 is provided with a stop pocket 108 and, as will be seen below, a corresponding stop projection 107 can also be introduced in the inner half in the overlapping areas 104A, 104B of the outer plate 102. This position is advantageous due to the reinforcement provided by the central areas 105, 106. A corresponding rotationally symmetric stop arrangement with only three stop projections 107 and corresponding stop pockets 108 is also possible.

[0053] 3A shows the two plates 101, 102 in the assembled state. In this case, the inner plate 101 is connected to the outer plate 102 in a pivotable, force-transmitting and limiting stop manner, such that the pivot pin 110 engages in the pin receptacle 112 and the stop projection 107 engages in the stop pocket 108. For lateral stabilization, the outer plate 102 engages with one of two symmetrical guide areas 120A extending parallel to the pivot plane behind a retaining projection 121A provided on the outside of the central area 105. For each of the guide areas 120A or 120B of the two outer plates 102 connected to this inner plate 101, two identical retaining projections 121A, 121B are provided in each case on the central area 105 of the inner plate 101, mirror-symmetrically to the vertical central plane of the plate. The retaining projections 121A, 121B are arranged substantially parallel to the pivot plane and project from the central region 105 in a direction towards the respective adjacent pivot axis. FIG. 3A shows the extended relative position of the two plates 101, 102. However, the area of ​​engagement behind the guide region 120A remains the same over the entire pivot region, except in a fully pivoted relative position (not shown). The guide regions 120A, 120B are in each case arc segments centered on the pivot axis A and form the outer front end region of the respective overlap region 104A, 104B of the outer plate 102, which adjoins the central region 105 of the inner plate 101. Each of the end guide regions 120A, 120B has the shape of an arc segment in side view and is embodied with a substantially uninterrupted constant cross section, where there may be an insertion bevel on the inner side in the central region (see FIG. 2B). As shown in FIG. 3B, each guide region 120A, 120B is recessed in a stepped cross-section relative to the outer surface of the plate 102, and particularly relative to the adjacent cross-sections of the overlap regions 104A, 104B, possibly with a sloped or rounded transition (see FIG. 2A).

[0054] Each retaining protrusion 121A, 121B is symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal and vertical central plane of the inner plate 101 and extends in a spatially limited manner over a central height portion of the plate height H with a useful or effective height dimension h1 (see FIG. 1B) for engagement purposes, the ratio h1 / H being preferably <40%, here for example about 30%. Furthermore, each retaining protrusion 121A, 121B is also of limited size when viewed in the circumferential direction or in the pivot direction about the pivot axis. This dimensioning of the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B is selected so that the engaging arc-shaped guide areas 120A, 120B are always engaged overlapping by a relatively small percentage, for example <40%, particularly preferably ≦33%, of their arc length or angular width of the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B (see FIG. 3B). FIG. 1A (right hand side) shows by way of example a relatively small effective angular width α of the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B, here about 30°. The angular width α here indicates the angle made by a ray passing through the start point of engagement beneath the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B and a ray passing through the corresponding end point, with the pivot axis A as the apex of the angle. Thus, with respect to its overall useful arc length, or angular width β, here about 90°, a large portion (β-α) of the guide area 120A, 120B is never overlapped and engaged by the associated support protrusion 121A, 121B, as is evident in the extended position from FIG. 3A by way of example. The useful angular width β of the guide area 120A, 120B depends on the desired pivoting range of the plates relative to each other, or the radius of curvature of the energy guide chain, and is typically between about 90° and about 150°, possibly up to almost 180°. The retention protrusions 121A, 121B are preferably limited to a maximum angular width α of ≦45° in the circumferential direction, over which the retention protrusions 121A, 121B may be engaged on the back side.

[0055] As is most evident from a comparison of the enlarged partial cross-sections in Figure 1C (inner plate 101 only) and Figure 3B (assembled inner plate 101 and outer plate 102), the guide area 120A or 120B, respectively, always engages in a space 123 behind the respective retaining protrusion 121A or 121B, with only a small amount of movement clearance across the pivot plane. Within space 123, the guide area 120A or 120B, respectively, is stopped or held under lateral loads in the lateral direction by a flat inner surface 125 on the back surface of the retaining protrusion 121A, 121B, respectively, facing inwards of the chain. The inner surface 125 extends parallel to the pivot plane.

[0056] The outer clearance faces of the guide regions 120A, 120B are therefore in each case embodied flat and parallel to the turning plane, ie following the sector of a disk.

[0057] As Fig. 3B shows, in this case the radial engagement depth r1 (Fig. 3B) of the guide areas 120A, 120B into the space 123 covered by the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B is selected to be as small as possible, but sufficient for the desired lateral stability. Due to the moderately small projection (Fig. 3B) of the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B, the maximum engagement depth r1 in the longitudinal center plane of the plate (see cross-sectional plane CC in Fig. 1B) is set, for example, to 15%, preferably 12.5%, of the arc radius r2 (Fig. 3A) of the guide areas 120A, 120B.

[0058] 1C and 3B further show a plate opening 126 extending through the central region 105 of the inner plate 101, which each retaining projection 121A, 121B covers at least laterally. The plate opening 126 extends to the remote surface of the inner plate 101 perpendicular to the pivot plane or parallel to the pivot axis A, as shown in FIG. 1B, and opens on the remote surface, possibly with a flared outward flare. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the two retaining projections 121A, 121B laterally cover a continuous and / or common plate opening 126 extending through the central region 105. The plate opening 126 merges with the space 123 in an open manner or encompasses the space 123. Thus, during assembly, the guide regions 120A, 120B can in each case project slightly obliquely into the plate opening 126. As Figures 1A-1C show, the plate opening 126 has an edgeless, here substantially elliptical, contour in the main plane of the plate (Figure 1B). The edge 128 of the plate opening 126 facing the overlap area is in each case aligned congruently on both sides with the protruding edges 131A, 131B of the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B. The blind-hole-like plate opening 126 allows for a simplified manufacture of the inner plate 101, and in particular of the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B, using a simple injection molding tool that does not include a slider. For this purpose, a positive mould is sufficient which is conjugated to the plate opening 126 as a fixed protrusion in a mould half, the moulding of which defines the back surface, in particular the inner retaining surface 125, of the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B. In this case, a reinforcing material bridge 127 is preferably integrally co-molded between the retaining surfaces 125 and / or at the front end of the plate opening 126, from which the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B project laterally. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the material bridge 127 spans the plate opening 126 in the direction of the plate height H and serves to stiffen the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B against lateral forces. Thanks to the material bridge 127, the retaining protrusions 121A, 121B are connected to the remainder of the plate via an area of ​​relatively increased material thickness.

[0059] As Fig. 1A shows, the central region 105 of the inner plate forms, in each case mirror-symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal central plane of the plate (see CC in Fig. 1B) and to the vertical central plane M of the plate, two protrusion-free lateral wall regions 124 in the form of circular arcs about a pivot axis. Each retaining protrusion 121A, 121B ends in each case on either side at a transition to the corresponding protrusion-free lateral wall region 124, the angular width of which is preferably greater than the angular width of the respective retaining protrusion 121A, 121B. Here, each lateral wall region 124 extends in each case from the retaining protrusion 121A, 121B almost to the corresponding narrow side of the inner plate 101. A front end lateral wall region 124 of the central region 105 is perpendicular to the main plane of the plate and merges with the overlap regions 103A, 103B, possibly with a rounded or edgeless transition.

[0060] As FIG. 1A further shows, edges 131A, 131B of the retention projections 121A, 121B that project respectively relative to the adjacent pivot axis A protrude convexly toward the pivot axis A and correspond correspondingly to the contour of the plate opening 126.

[0061] FIG. 4 shows, as a further exemplary embodiment, generally in a side view and diagrammatically, an offset link plate 200 made in one piece of plastic material by injection molding. The outwardly offset overlap area 203A has on its inside a joint pin 204 integrally molded with the link plate 200 and engages (perpendicular to the plane in FIG. 4 ) in a joint receiver 206 in the inwardly offset overlap area 203B of an adjacent link plate constructed in a similar manner to form a pivot joint about the respective pivot axis A. The overlap area 203A further has on its inside two stop projections 207, in this case cylindrical and integrally projecting, which are arranged diametrically opposite the pivot axis A on the longitudinal central plane of the plate. To limit the pivot angle, the stop projections 207 engage in two corresponding arcuate notches 208 on the outside of the overlap area 203B of the adjacent link plate 200. It should be noted that in each case one stop projection 207 and a corresponding cutout 208 are arranged in the inner half of the overlapping region 203A, 203B in the immediate vicinity of the reinforced central region 205. This is made possible by the inventive dimensioning of the retaining projection 221 provided for lateral stabilization. The retaining projection 221 on the central region 205 here forms an arc-shaped channel for the engagement of a guide region 220 extending parallel to the pivot plane at the front end of the overlapping region 203A of an adjacent plate constructed in a similar way. In FIG. 4 the guide region 220 is embodied by way of example as a protruding circular segment extending over 180° and having a smaller wall thickness compared to at least the larger wall of the central region 205.

[0062] The retaining projection 221 for lateral stabilization projects integrally from the central region 205 and is likewise of limited dimensions in the circumferential direction about the pivot axis, with a considerably smaller angular width α compared to the guide region 220, for example, and extends only over a small central portion h1 of the plate height H. Thus, again in a manner similar to Figs. 1A-3B, a large part of the arc-shaped guide region 220 is not overlapped and engaged by the retaining projection 221. This allows, inter alia, a larger introduction angle during the assembly of two offset link plates 200 according to Fig. 4, and thus a greater design freedom, in particular with regard to the position and dimensioning of the stop projection 207 and the associated cutout 208. With regard to other per se known features of the offset plate, the teaching of US Pat. No. 5,233,336 is included here by way of example.

[0063] Despite their space-limited and material-saving dimensioning, the retention projections 121A, 121B or 221 according to the invention achieve a high level of stability against tilting, bending or deviation of the plate from the pivot plane. [Explanation of symbols]

[0064] 101 Inner plate 102 Outer plate 103A, 103B overlapping area (inner plate) 104A, 104B overlapping area (outer plate) 105 Central area (inner plate) 106 Central Region (Outer Plate) 107 Stopper protrusion 107A, 107B Stop surface 108 Snap pocket 108A, 108B Counterstop Surface 109 Fastening lug (for cross piece) 110 Swivel pin 112 Pin receiver (rotating pin) 120A, 120B Guide area 121A, 121B Retaining protrusion 123 Space 124 Lateral wall area 125 Inner retaining surface 126 Plate opening 127 Material Bridge 128 Edge (Plate opening) 131A, 131B Convex edge (retaining protrusion) α Angular width (holding protrusion: Fig. 1A) β Useful angle width (guide area: Figure 3A) A Swivel Axis H Plate height h1 Effective height dimension Vertical center plane of M plate r1 radial engagement depth (Fig. 3B) r2 Arc radius (guide area: Fig. 3A) 200 offset link plate 203A, 203B overlapping area 204 Joint pin 205 Central area 206 Joint Support 207 Stopper protrusion 208 Notch 220 Guide Area 221 Retaining protrusion α Angle width (holding protrusion) A Swivel Axis H Plate height h1 Effective height dimension

Claims

1. 1. An energy guide chain for guiding wires such as hoses, cables, etc. between two connection points using chain links comprising in each case two opposing plates, in particular made of plastic material, connected to one another by at least one crosspiece, in each case having two series of plates comprising alternating successive inner plates (101) and outer plates (102), the inner plate has an inner overlap region (103A, 103B) facing the inner side of the chain; an energy guide chain, the outer plates of which have outer overlapping regions (104A, 104B) so that adjacent plates are in each case overlapped and connected to one another in an articulated and pivotable manner in a plane about a pivot axis (A), and in each case one plate (102) of two adjacent plates in the series of plates engages, for lateral stabilization, in a space (123) behind a retaining protrusion (121A, 121B) on the other plate by means of an arc-shaped guide region (120A, 120B) extending parallel to the pivot plane, An energy guide chain, wherein the retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) are spatially limited to a central vertical portion (h1) of the plate height and have limited dimensions in the circumferential direction around the pivot axis (A), so that the arc-shaped guide areas (120A, 120B) are overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) only over a relatively small portion, preferably ≦33% of the arc length or angular width (α) of the guide areas (120A, 120B), and are not overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) over a majority of the arc length or angular width (β-α) of the guide areas (120A, 120B), specifically ≧66%.

2. A plastic plate, preferably an inner plate (101) for an energy guide chain according to claim 1, The device comprises two opposing overlapping regions (103A; 103B) and a central region (105) located between the overlapping regions (103A; 103B), each overlapping region having a pivot pin integral with said overlapping region or a pin receiver (112) molded into said overlapping region for connecting the overlapping plates (101; 102) to one another in a plane pivotably about a pivot axis (A); In either case, two retaining projections (121A, 121B) are integrally provided on said central region (105), each projecting onto an associated space (123); a plastic plate in which an adjacent outer or inner plate (101; 102) can be engaged in said space (123) by means of arc-shaped guide areas (120A, 120B) extending parallel to the pivot plane for lateral stabilization; each retaining projection (121A, 121B) has a limited dimension (α) in the circumferential direction about said pivot axis (A), so that a large portion of the arc-shaped guide area of the engaging plate is not overlapped and engaged by said retaining projection; and / or A plastic plate in which each retaining protrusion (121A, 121B) is arranged within an angular range α of <60°, preferably ≦45°, divided by the longitudinal center plane of the plate about the adjacent pivot axis (A).

3. 2. A plate pair for an energy guide chain according to claim 1, An inner plate (101) and an outer plate (102), Each plate has two opposing overlapping regions (103A, 103B; 104A, 104B) and one central region (105; 106) located between the overlapping regions (103A, 103B; 104A, 104B), and both plates are embodied so as to overlap on one side by the overlapping regions; the outer plate (102) has a pivot pin (110) integral with the outer plate (102) in each of the overlapping regions (104A, 104B) for pivotally connecting the two plates to one another in a plane, and the inner plate (101) has a corresponding pin receptacle (112) molded into the inner plate (101) in each of the overlapping regions (103A, 103B); two retaining projections (121A, 121B) are integrally provided on the central region (105) of the inner plate for lateral stabilization, each projecting onto an associated space (123); a pair of plates, each of which has an arc-shaped guide area (120A, 120B) extending parallel to the pivot plane and integrally provided on a front edge of each overlapping area (104A, 104B) of the outer plate (102) for lateral stabilization, and which can engage in the space (123) of the retaining protrusion; each retaining protrusion (121A, 121B) on the central region (105) of the inner plate has a limited dimension (α) in the circumferential direction about the pivot axis (A), so that a large portion of the arc-shaped guide region (120A, 120B) of the engaging outer plate (102) is not overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusion (121A, 121B); and / or A plate pair in which each retaining protrusion (121A, 121B) is arranged within an angular range α of <60°, preferably ≦45°, divided by the longitudinal center plane of the plate about the adjacent pivot axis (A).

4. 1. An energy guide chain for guiding wires such as hoses, cables, etc. between two connection points using chain links comprising in each case two opposing plates made of plastic material connected to each other by at least one crosspiece, 1. An energy guide chain comprising two series of plates, each of which comprises identical offset plates (200) made of plastic material, each offset plate (200) having a first overlapping region (203B) and a second overlapping region (203A) offset outwardly with respect to the first overlapping region (203B), so that adjacent plates in each case overlap and are connected to one another in a plane in an articulated and pivotable manner about a pivot axis (A), and in each case one of two adjacent plates in the series of plates engages, for lateral stabilization, in the space behind a retaining protrusion (221) on the other plate by means of a circular-arc-shaped guide region (220) extending parallel to the pivot plane, An energy guide chain, wherein the retaining protrusions (221) are spatially limited to a central vertical portion (h1) of the plate height and have limited dimensions in the circumferential direction around the pivot axis (A), so that the arc-shaped guide region (220) is overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusions (221) only over a relatively small portion (α) of the arc length or angular width of the guide region (220), and is not overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusions (221) over a majority of the arc length or angular width of the guide region (220).

5. 5. An offset plastic plate (200) for an energy guide chain according to claim 4, comprising: a first overlapping region (203B); a second overlapping region (203A) offset outward from the first overlapping region (203B); and a central region (205) having a greater wall thickness at least at a predetermined location and located between the first overlapping region (203B) and the second overlapping region (203A), an offset plastic plate (200) in which one overlapping region (203A) has a pivot pin (204) integral with it and the other overlapping region has a corresponding receiver (206) for connecting the overlapping plates to each other in a plane so that they can pivot about a pivot axis (A); the free end of one overlapping region (203A) is provided with at least one arc-shaped guide region (220) extending parallel to the pivot plane, the guide region (220) having a smaller wall thickness than the central region (205) having a larger wall thickness; and at least one retaining protrusion (221) is integrally provided on the central region (205) for lateral stabilization, behind which an adjacent plate can be engaged by its guide region (220) for lateral stabilization; each retaining protrusion (221) has a limited dimension (α) in the circumferential direction about the pivot axis, so that a large portion of the arc-shaped guide area (220) of the adjacent plate is not overlapped and engaged by the retaining protrusion (221); and / or An offset plastic plate (200) in which each retaining protrusion (221) is arranged within an angular range α of <60°, preferably ≦45°, divided by the longitudinal center plane of the plate about the adjacent pivot axis (A).

6. 6. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) are delimited in the circumferential direction about the pivot axis (A) so that the arc-shaped guide area is covered in each pivot position over a maximum angle (α) about the pivot axis (A) of < 60°, preferably ≦ 45°. and / or The retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) are limited in size such that, at each pivot position, the arc-shaped guide regions (120A, 120B) engage with the retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) at a rate of less than 40% of the arc length or angular width of the arc-shaped guide regions (120A, 120B), and the arc-shaped guide regions (120A, 120B) are limited not to engage with the retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) at a rate of 60% or more of the arc length or angular width of the arc-shaped guide regions (120A, 120B). Energy guide chain or plastic plate.

7. 7. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the radial engagement depth (r1) of the guide areas (120A, 120B) into the space (123) covered by the retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) is less than 15%, preferably less than or equal to 12.5% of the arc radius (r2) of the guide areas (120A, 120B). and / or To limit the pivot angle, each overlapping area (104A, 104B) has a plurality of stop elements, including stop projections (107; 207) or stop pockets (108; 208), at least one stop element being arranged entirely or partially within an inner lower area of each overlapping area, which inner lower area is preferably a quadrant around the pivot axis including the central area (105, 106; 205) of the plate with the retaining projections (121A, 121B; 221). Energy guide chain or plastic plate.

8. 8. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to any one of claims 1 to 7, each retention protrusion (121A, 121B) at least partially covers a plate opening (126) which extends through the central region (105) or through said central region (105) of said plate to the remote surface of said plate, and / or each retaining projection (121A, 121B) is integrally connected to said plate via a material bridge (127) having a wall thickness greater than that of said retaining projection (121A, 121B); and / or - the plastic plate is an inner or outer plate, and furthermore two retaining projections (121A, 121B) cover a common plate opening (126) through the central region and are preferably integrally formed with a reinforcing material bridge (127) across said plate opening (126); and / or the plastic plate has a plate opening (126) with a preferably substantially oval contour without edges in the main plane of the plate and / or an edge (128) of the plate opening (126) facing the overlapping area is in each case aligned coincident with the protruding edges (131A, 131B) of the retaining projections, Plastic plate.

9. 9. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to claim 1, wherein, for limiting the swivel angle, one of the overlapping regions (104A, 104B) has at least three stop projections (107), which stop projections (107) in each case form two flat stop surfaces (107A, 107B), and the overlapping region (103A, 103B) complementary to the one of the overlapping regions (104A, 104B) has at least three corresponding receivers (108), which receivers (108) in each case include two opposing stop surfaces (108A, 108B), - preferably furthermore, said overlapping area, which in each case engages by its guide area in the space (123) of said retaining projections (121A, 121B), comprises said stop projections and an integral pivot pin (110); the stop projections (107) and the pivot pins project alternately laterally relative to the guide areas (120A, 120B) and / or project from the pivot plane on opposite sides of the retaining projections (121A, 121B), Energy guide chain or plastic plate.

10. 10. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to any one of claims 1 to 9, - said retention projections (121A, 121B) do not project laterally beyond the surface of the outer plate and / or terminate flush with said surface of said outer plate; and / or - said retaining projections (121A, 121B) form inner retaining surfaces (125) for overlapping said guide areas, said inner retaining surfaces (125) being embodied almost parallel to the pivot plane; Energy guide chain or plastic plate.

11. 11. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to any one of claims 1 to 10, each retaining protrusion (121A, 121B) is arranged mirror-symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal central plane of the plate and / or the vertical central plane of the plate (M) and / or is centrally arranged with respect to the plate height (H), the effective height dimension (h1) of said retaining protrusion preferably amounts to 40% of the plate height, In particular, furthermore, a lateral wall region (124) without projections extends on each side in mirror symmetry with respect to said retaining projections (121A, 121B); Energy guide chain or plastic plate.

12. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the protruding edges (131A, 131B) of the retaining protrusions protrude convexly outward relative to the pivot axis (A).

13. An energy guide chain or plastic plate as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the arc-shaped guide area (120A, 120B) for engaging on the back side of the retaining protrusion (121A, 121B) has a protruding arc segment at its front end on the overlap area (103A, 103B), the segment having a cross-section that is recessed relative to the outer surface of the overlap area (103A, 103B).

14. 14. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the retaining protrusions (121A, 121B) and / or the guide areas (120A, 120B) are arranged such that the guide areas (120A, 120B) engage in the spaces (123) of the retaining protrusions over substantially the entire pivot angle. and / or the crosspiece is fastened to the inside of the central region (106) of the plastic plate, in particular the outer plate (102), and the flared ends of the crosspiece are flared so as to overlap the inner walls of the adjacent overlapping regions (103A, 103B) of the adjacent plates in the plate series, in particular the inner plate (101); Energy guide chain or plastic plate.

15. 15. An energy guide chain or plastic plate according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein each plate (101, 102; 200) is made in one piece from an injection-moldable plastic material, in particular a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic.

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