Line guide devices for suspension applications, especially for drilling rigs, drilling equipment, etc.

Abstract

The present invention provides a line guide device in which the guide body can withstand higher lateral forces, particularly radially inward lateral forces. [Solution] The present invention relates to a line guide device. The line guide device comprises a transport strand (11) and a main body, where at least a portion of the main body takes the form of a guide body (14), each having a central component (15A) and an outer component (15B), and for n≧2, every n main bodies are realized as a guide body (14), each spacer body connects two adjacent main bodies in a spatially deflectable and articulate manner, each spacer body has two joint regions at opposing ends for articulate connection with the guide body (14), and the joint regions are realized to correspond to the corresponding joint regions (26A, 26B) of the central component (15A) of the guide body (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a device for dynamically guiding a plurality of supply lines, such as cables, hoses, etc. (hereinafter referred to as a line guiding device). In particular, when the line guiding device is composed of two suspension parts and a loop therebetween, the line guiding device is, for example, for carrying a long free suspension part such as in an excavation rig, and relates to a device for particularly high tensile forces in suspension applications, etc.

[0002] Specifically, the present invention relates to a line guiding device for guiding a plurality of lines, comprising a flexible conveying strand with a high tensile strength extending over the length of the line guiding device, particularly a cable or a chain, and a number of guide bodies arranged in the longitudinal direction on the conveying strand, and adjacent guide bodies are spatially deflectable relative to each other. At least some of the guide bodies here each have a central part or central member having a fastening device for fastening the guide body to the conveying strand, and an outer part having at least one circumferential element for holding one or more lines guided on the conveying strand by bounding a receiving area for the lines towards the outside.

Background Art

[0003] A line guiding device of the above type having a conveying strand is already known from Patent Document 1. A corresponding line guiding device has further been proposed in Patent Document 2.

[0004] The central conveying strand allows this type of line guide device to absorb very high tensile forces, which do not need to be transmitted through individual guide bodies. Thus, applications with relatively long free-suspending sections, for example, clearly less than 10m, can be realized. Therefore, this type of line guide device can be used in particular for deep mining in drilling rigs (offshore / onshore) or drilling equipment, and even for onshore power sources for ships, for example.

[0005] However, as shown in Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2, for example, well-known embodiments of the structure exhibit only limited robustness with respect to radially inward forces that occur, for example, when the line guide device is deflected by deflection rollers or wound or unwound using a drum. In this case, the guide body may be deformed radially by high load forces, for example, from long free-suspending sections, which can result in undesirable transverse loads on the line or even permanent deformation. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2019 / 243377 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2019 / 234090 [Overview of the Initiative]

[0007] From the perspective of the above-mentioned prior art, the first objective of the present invention is to further develop the above-mentioned type of line guide device so that the guide body can withstand higher lateral forces, particularly radially inward lateral forces.

[0008] A further independent second challenge is to enable a reduction in a predetermined bending radius or radius of curvature for the deflection loop or deflection region of the above-described line guide device, especially in the case of relatively large diameter devices.

[0009] First aspect The first problem is achieved by a first embodiment of the first line guide device described in claim 1 or the guide body described in claim 16 configured therefor.

[0010] This first problem can be solved by providing at least three radial bars on the central component or member that hold or support the outer components and provide radial support to the guide body, which is susceptible to transverse loads. Compared to the above-mentioned well-known solution which uses only two radial bars to maximize the receiving space, higher inward radial forces can be absorbed by the bar, even in the unsupported areas between the bars, without causing deformation of the outer components, especially the circumferential elements. As a result of the greater number of radial bars, the radial forces are effectively blocked and deflected towards the central component.

[0011] A greater number of radial bars further allows for a structured internal division of the receiving space for the lines, so that the lines have a defined path and are less susceptible to wear due to relative movement between them. A division in at least three separate chambers, i.e., a division having at least three bars, is also advantageous in this respect.

[0012] Preferably, at least four radial bars supporting or holding the outer components are provided on the central component.

[0013] Depending on the desired free diameter of the receiving region and the expected force, five or more radial bars may be provided on the central component to support or hold the outer component and / or to achieve better internal division.

[0014] In this regard, each bar carries and supports the area of ​​the circumferential element, particularly when only one circumferential element is provided around the entire circumference, or depending on the number of circumferential elements provided, and optionally two additional separate circumferential elements at the ends.

[0015] The radial bars act like spokes, guiding the conveying strand along the central axis by the central component, and have a primary range radially with respect to the central axis, i.e., also radially with respect to the longitudinal direction of the conveying strand. Preferably, the radial bars are evenly distributed circumferentially around this central axis, i.e., with substantially the same angular dimension or arc between every pair of circumferentially adjacent radial bars.

[0016] In a preferred, easily maintainable configuration, at least one circumferential element is releasably or detachably connected to at least one of the radial bars. Thus, individual lines can be quickly replaced as needed. For connections that can be reversed without tools, it may preferably have end regions, particularly end regions having locking elements. Particularly preferably, a rear engagement locking may be provided, for example, between the end region of the circumferential element and the corresponding bar. The locking rear engagement will continue in the radial, axial, and / or circumferential directions.

[0017] In one embodiment, at least one radial bar is defined to have at least one projection substantially projecting circumferentially for connection with a radial portion and at least one circumferential element. Preferably, at least one projection may be defined to have a locking element for locking engagement with the circumferential element and / or be realized integrally with the radial portion.

[0018] Advantageously, to achieve a more suitable force introduction or a more robust impact-resistant structure, the circumferential elements may be specified to be supported when attached by circumferentially openable end regions in the corresponding radial bars.

[0019] The central component forms an axial passage opening for the conveyor strand and is preferably a multi-component embodiment. In this case, the central component may have at least two or as few components, particularly a clamping shell, for fastening to the conveyor strand. The multi-component structure is advantageous for shape-locking and / or force-locking fastening to the conveyor strand, which can be realized, for example, as a cable, particularly a plastic cable, or actually as a link chain with, for example, steel links. Here, the individual components boundary the passage opening and can contact or act against the conveyor strand in a shape-locking or force-locking manner.

[0020] The fastening device for the central component used to fasten the guide body to the conveying strand enables, in particular, a fixed, i.e., axially stationary fastening of the guide body in the longitudinal direction of the conveying strand.

[0021] The carrier strands bear the substantial portion of the load and, like the internal core of the cable, release the tensile load from the line. The carrier strands are flexible enough not to adversely affect the deflection of the guide body relative to each other. The guide body holds the line fixedly, at least radially, in the receiving region, i.e., relative to the central component and consequently relative to the carrier strands.

[0022] In the case of a multi-component structure of a central region or central component, it is advantageous that at least two radial bars are attached for the purpose of a design that is catchable and / or prevents falling, and that they are manufactured or formed in conjunction with at least one component, in particular one of the clamping shells.

[0023] Preferably, each of the two clamping shells may have at least two radial bars integrally provided between them, or three or more depending on the actual number of bars. Thus, the bars are installed more quickly and easily, and at the same time, they are more secure.

[0024] It is also possible to configure the central part so that it consists of three or more main component parts. In this case, in particular, a number of components corresponding to the number of radial bars, in particular clamping shells, may be provided. And each bar is preferably associated with one component and manufactured or formed integrally therewith.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the flexible conveying strand is realized as a cable (i.e., not as a link chain). In particular, in combination with a cable as the conveying strand, it is advantageous if the fastening device of the central part is realized in the form of an articulated clamping shell or as a screw fastening device. For this purpose, it may comprise joints and fastening screws for fastening or axially fixing at least two or only two components, in particular clamping shells, to the conveying strand or cable by generating a clamping force, and thus fixing the target guide body longitudinally to the cable.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, a number of circumferential elements corresponding to the number of radial bars are provided, the circumferential elements being realized as arcuate segments and / or each being releasably fastened to two radial bars. Preferably at least three circumferential elements, particularly preferably at least four separate circumferential elements, are thus provided. All circumferential elements can be realized, for example, as arcuate segments similar to, for example, a roughly quarter-circle shape or a quarter-shell, in particular as standard parts.

[0027] Each radial bar may be defined to comprise a radially extending portion and in particular at least one circumferentially extending projection realized integrally with the radially extending portion for releasable connection with one circumferential element. In this regard, the projection may have a locking element for locking engagement with the circumferential element.

[0028] An outer component having one or more circumferential elements preferably forms a circumferentially closed and continuous ring when the guide body is mounted closed in preparation for operation. The ring may optionally be complemented or passed through by the radial end regions of the bars, otherwise the outer component or circumferential elements may completely surround the central component. This allows for a more favorable introduction of radial forces from the multiple bars and reduces undesirable deformation of the outer component.

[0029] For example, to open the guide body and insert / remove the line during manufacturing or maintenance, each circumferential element is preferably defined to have a first end that is pivotably connected to the radial bar by an articulated joint.

[0030] Furthermore, each rotating element may have a second end that can be locked by a snap-fit ​​connection to an additional adjacent radial bar, thereby allowing it to be released from this bar for the purpose of rotational release as needed.

[0031] Preferably, the ends of each circulating element, which can be more easily released on one side, are fastened to both sides, significantly simplifying installation and handling. Thus, the circulating elements can be released as needed, which is particularly advantageous in terms of handling a relatively large number of circulating elements or radial bars, for example, when only one line needs to be updated.

[0032] To improve force distribution, each circumferential element has a support surface that acts circumferentially and is positioned approximately radially, and is supported by radial bars. In a segmented structure with a number of circumferential elements equal to the number of bars, the radial lateral force can be distributed evenly across multiple or all radial bars.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first end of the circumferential element is defined to have a joint region, and two axial support surfaces are formed adjacent to the joint region on both sides, so that the first end can be circumferentially supported by the radial bar by these support surfaces. The axial spacing between the two support surfaces ensures better prevention of undesirable axial movement or tilting.

[0034] Furthermore, the second end of the circumferential element also has one or optionally more support surfaces, thereby allowing the second end to be circumferentially supported by the radial bar by optionally two axially spaced surfaces.

[0035] Furthermore, or alternatively, the second end of the circumferential element is specified to form a locking receiver that can lock with locking projections of further radial bars, the locking receiver and locking projections extending particularly substantially tangentially and / or being releaseable by levering or twisting about tangentially. In this way, the locking connection is not released by radial forces, thus preventing unwanted release of the locking connection due to radial interference forces.

[0036] More preferably, the radial bars may have fixing means in the tangential direction that interact with the locking receiving portion of the circumferential element.

[0037] To open up access to the receiving space for the lines, one end of each circulating element is preferably pivotably attached to the radial bar. This can be achieved, for example, using a hinged joint. Alternatively, the two ends of the circulating element may be fastened to the bar in different ways, for example by snap-fit ​​connections, which optionally further simplifies the introduction of forces.

[0038] In one preferred embodiment, the first end of the circumferential element has a joint region having a swivel pin that is swivelably connected to a swivel hook on a radial bar. In this regard, it is particularly preferable that the first end of the circumferential element forms an unlocking surface to prevent loss or unintended release of the circumferential element, the unlocking surface, in cooperation with the bar, allows the swivel pin to be released from the swivel hook only over a limited angular range in the case of snap-fit ​​disengagement at the second end. This unlocking surface may be provided, for example, by a setback region between the support surface and a further stop surface as an angular limit with respect to the maximum swivel-open position.

[0039] To reduce the number of circumferentially accessible areas for installation or maintenance purposes, and to prevent separate access for each circumferential element, it is advantageous that at least one first radial bar is articulated to the first end of each of the two circumferential elements on both sides, and for this purpose, it is preferable that each circumferential element has two swivel receiving sections. Thus, for example, if four bars are used on only two diametrically opposed sides, it becomes possible to provide access for inserting and removing lines, i.e., the circumferential elements are opened in pairs in the same circumferential region or from the same side, like a window with two sashes.

[0040] Therefore, similarly, it is advantageous that at least one second radial bar can be locked on both sides of either of the two circumferential elements by snap-fit ​​connections to the second end, and for this purpose, it is advantageous to have two locking projections for each circumferential element.

[0041] Therefore, the two orbital elements may be swivelably attached to the same bar by both first ends, or they may be closed to a further bar by both second ends.

[0042] The outer component may optionally consist of only one substantially complete circular element.

[0043] However, preferably, the system includes at least two circumferential elements, particularly at least three circumferential elements, which are preferably held to the central component in a releasable, movable, and / or rotatable manner.

[0044] In one preferred further development, the outer component further comprises a circumferential annular elastic buffer or protector for shock absorption, in addition to the circumferential element. The buffer surrounds the circumferential element from the outside and is preferably held against the circumferential element in the axial direction. For this purpose, the circumferential element may have a shape having an annular recess and engaging projection on the outside and the buffer on the inside, which hold the buffer in the axial direction. The buffer can simultaneously securely fix the circumferential element.

[0045] Preferably, at least one of the three radial bars, in particular one of the second radial bars described above, i.e., the bar to which the two circumferential elements can be locked, has, for example, a radially projecting fixing region having a fixing opening. The two ends of the annular elastic buffer can be subsequently secured therein by, for example, fixing screws.

[0046] Preferably, the circumferential element is held to one or more bars so as to be fastened independently of the buffer in the closed position, and more particularly so as to be lockable or swivelable. Installation and maintenance are simplified if the circumferential element remains in the closed position even after the buffer is removed, i.e., it is required to be released as needed.

[0047] In one preferred embodiment, each of the radial bars is implemented as a single unit.

[0048] Each circumferential element is realized between two circumferentially continuous bars, preferably as at least one continuous arc-shaped segment, and is preferably held at its ends by these bars, depending on the number of circumferential elements.

[0049] It is mechanically advantageous with respect to force absorption if the radial bars are uniformly distributed circumferentially around a central axis, and / or if each circumferential element is realized in the form of an arc with an arc of 120 degrees or less, particularly 90 degrees or less, in the circumferential direction.

[0050] The proposed structure is particularly suitable for lines with a large weight per unit length and / or a large line diameter, i.e., for correspondingly dimensioned guide bodies with an inner diameter of 300 mm or more, especially 350 mm or more, of the outer components.

[0051] The present invention further relates to a guide body itself (in itself) specifically configured for a line guide device according to one of the exemplary embodiments described above. According to the present invention, the guide body has at least three radial bars, particularly at least four radial bars, in the central part for holding the outer part. The guide body may more advantageously have the above features.

[0052] The proposed line guide device is particularly suitable for configurations for supplying line, such as use in drilling rigs or for onshore power sources for ships equipped with deflection rollers and / or drums. The line guide device is deflected on deflection rollers or wound or unwound by a drum.

[0053] The present invention offers particular advantages when relatively heavy line bundles need to be suspended substantially vertically over a considerable length. Therefore, the present invention is particularly well suited, but not limited, to use as service loops in onshore or land-based, or offshore or marine drilling rigs. Further applications in offshore operations include, for example, supply cables (umbilicals) between a platform and a supply vessel or shipboard shore power supply. The solutions of the present invention are also particularly well suited to onshore applications, especially suspension applications, in drilling or deep drilling systems or in mining.

[0054] The conveyor strand may be a conveyor cable with particularly high tensile strength, such as one made of high-strength plastic. In this case, tensile strength means that the conveyor strand or conveyor cable has sufficient tensile strength to bear the total weight of the line guide device including all lines, i.e., the assumed end weight corresponding to the total weight of the line guide device with all lines. The required static load-bearing capacity of the conveyor strand should be well above 1000 kg, although this depends on the application involved.

[0055] Preferably 900 N / mm 2 Wire cables with individual cable wires of higher nominal strength made of higher wire material may be considered as conveyor strands. In addition to or as an alternative to plastic cable wires, steel cable wires, and in some cases those with a plastic core, may also be considered. Conveyor strands or conveyor cables should be as non-stretchable as possible. As an alternative to conveyor cables, for example, link chains with steel links can also be used as conveyor strands.

[0056] However, preferably, the high-strength plastic transport cable is used in conjunction with a guide body made of at least a large portion of plastic. In this way, even with a relatively large receiving capacity or large inner diameter relative to the guide body, for example, a diameter well larger than 200 mm, and a corresponding load-bearing capacity, a relatively low weight per unit length of less than 40 kg / m can be achieved for the line guide device itself (without the guided line). Noise emission is also significantly lower compared to link chains.

[0057] For intended applications, particularly in drilling rigs, the conveyor strand is preferably at least 5 m in length, and more preferably at least 10 m in length. In this case, the conveyor strand is preferably fully continuous and has higher tear and tensile strength than the guided line. The conveyor strand or conveyor cable preferably extends over the desired total length of the line guide device and protrudes at its ends beyond the guide body to facilitate load-bearing fastening of the conveyor strand or conveyor cable.

[0058] Second aspect According to a further independent aspect of the present invention, the line guide device described in independent claim 18 is proposed to achieve the second objective described above. Advantageous further developments of the method according to the present invention are described in dependent claims 19-26. In the second aspect, the number of radial bars is not a fundamentally important matter, but the advantageous features of both aspects may be combined with each other.

[0059] A second aspect relates to a line guide device for guiding multiple lines such as cables and hoses, which has a flexible conveying strand with high tensile strength extending over the length of the line guide device. For this purpose, it may consist of one continuous or multiple connected guide bodies. The multiple bodies are arranged longitudinally with respect to the conveying strand, and adjacent bodies are spatially deflectable relative to each other. At least some of these bodies take the form of guide bodies for lines, and for this purpose each has a central component having fastening devices for fastening to the conveying strand, and an outer component having at least one circumferential element that outwardly borders a receiving area for lines.

[0060] According to an independent second aspect of the present invention, it is proposed that at least one spacer body is provided between two guide bodies relative to the conveying strand, at least along the longitudinal portion of the line guide device or along its entire length, and each spacer body defines the distance between the central components of the two guide bodies. The spacer body is configured in a manner different from the guide body and, for this purpose, can be realized, for example, by having a central component that does not have an outer component but is functionally configured similarly to the guide body.

[0061] The core function of the spacer body is to define the distance between two guide bodies along the transport strand without substantially impairing their spatial deflection capability. For this purpose, the spacer body may be configured, in particular, with a reduced outer diameter relative to the guide bodies, and / or so that the outer components of the two guide bodies can contact each other, and in particular collide directly, at the fully deflected relative position.

[0062] A spacer body, particularly one with a significantly reduced outer diameter compared to the outer components of the guide body, is suitably configured to achieve a significantly large relative rotation angle between two spaced guide bodies, or greater deflection relative to the linear extension position, i.e., a significantly reduced radius of curvature or bending radius in the deflection region. This is especially advantageous for larger diameter line guide devices, i.e., for applications involving multiple lines and / or large diameter lines, for example, in deep drilling rigs.

[0063] Compared to a simpler method of fastening the guide body to the transport cable over a relatively long distance, the spacer body can further stiffen the transport strand, thus protecting the line by preventing unwanted kinking. This is particularly advantageous when using flexible cables as the transport strand.

[0064] In one embodiment, along the longitudinal direction of the transport strand, n bodies are implemented as guide bodies, with n≧2 in the longitudinal portion. For example, only every two or every three bodies may be provided as actual guide bodies for guiding the line. Alternatively, a single spacer body may be provided between every two guide bodies.

[0065] In a particularly simple structure, the guide body may be provided alternately with the spacer body at least along the longitudinal portion of the line guide device or along its entire length.

[0066] One additional advantageous effect of the spacer body is that it contributes to weight reduction, allowing the overall weight of the line guide device to be reduced by providing the spacer body.

[0067] The central component defines the receiving region for the line radially inward. The spacer body is preferably realized with a compact outer profile in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and is substantially located within the radially inward boundary of the receiving region for the line defined by the central component of the guide body. Therefore, the profile of the spacer body preferably does not substantially protrude radially into the receiving region so that the receiving region remains away from the line in the axial direction.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, similar to the preferred configuration of the guide body according to the first embodiment, each spacer body may be specified to be spatially deflectable, particularly articulated, connection of two adjacent bodies. In this case, each spacer body may preferably have two joint regions at opposing ends suitable for articulated connection with the guide body. These may be suitably or appropriately realized for cooperation with the corresponding joint region of the central component of the guide body. Preferably, the joint regions of the spacer body and / or guide body may be connected in particular to be axially releaseable from each other, preferably such that tensile forces are not absorbed through the spacer body and / or guide body but are absorbed mostly or exclusively by the conveyor strand.

[0069] The spacer body is preferably dimensioned such that a consistently uniform chain pitch is achieved along its longitudinal portion, particularly in the axial direction. Chain pitch here refers, for example, to the axial distance between two consecutive joint centers of the articulated connection of the body, and is understood here to mean the same thing as the definition for a link chain.

[0070] It is fundamentally advantageous if the spacer body has a structure that is as compact as possible in the radial direction, that is, if the maximum outer diameter of the spacer body is preferably remarkably small, and in particular less than 33% of the outer diameter of the outer part of the guide body, and especially less than 30% of the outer diameter of the outer part.

[0071] The outer component forms a robust, circular ring-shaped outer contour. The application of the second embodiment is particularly advantageous for large-diameter embodiments. This may specify that the outer diameter of the outer component of the guide body is at least 2.5 times the chain pitch, and particularly 2.8 times or more the chain pitch. Furthermore or alternatively, the outer diameter of the outer component may be, for example, 300 mm or more. On the other hand, a reduction in the bending radius may also have an advantageous effect in the case of relatively small diameters.

[0072] In one embodiment, each spacer body forms an axial passage opening for the conveying strand and may be of a multi-part embodiment, in particular of at least two components for shaping and / or forcing lock fastening to the conveying strand. This is particularly advantageous for manufacturing and installation, but not absolutely necessary. In particular, simple spacer bodies may take the form of, for example, a single tubular spacer sleeve, which may optionally need to be passed through the conveying strand during manufacturing and maintenance.

[0073] Based on a preferred configuration of the guide body, each spacer body is preferably realized as a type of articulated clamping shell. For this purpose, the spacer body may include a clamping joint and a clamping screw for fastening two shell-type components to a conveyor strand, for example, by generating a clamping force, particularly in an embodiment that resists axial displacement.

[0074] In a simple structure, each spacer body may consist substantially of two elongated, semi-shell-like components. In this case, the components can be realized, in particular, having an outer contour without interfering edges and / or without radially protruding bars.

[0075] The guide body itself may, in a second embodiment, correspond to the configuration described in International Publication No. 2019 / 243377 (Patent Document 1). In a preferred configuration, apart from the number of bars, they may be configured according to the first embodiment or subsequent exemplary embodiments.

[0076] In particular, the individual features of the independent first and second embodiments are understood to be significant to the present invention and to be further combinable in this context. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0077] [Figure 1A] A side view shows a first exemplary embodiment of a line guide device in a suspension configuration for supplying vertically movable consumables. [Figure 1B] A first exemplary embodiment of a line guide device in a suspension configuration for supplying vertically movable consumables is shown in a perspective enlargement of the lower region, i.e., the deflection loop. [Figure 1C] A first exemplary embodiment of a line guide device in a suspension configuration for supplying vertically movable consumables is shown, along with a deflection region in which the line guide device is deflected around a deflection roller, which is shown schematically only. [Figure 2A] Figures 1A-1B show an axial cross-section / longitudinal cross-section of one guide body according to a first exemplary embodiment of the line guide device, passing through multiple guide bodies in the longitudinal direction. [Figure 2B] Figures 1A and 1B show a radial cross-sectional view of one guide body according to a first exemplary embodiment of the line guide device. [Figure 2C] Figures 2A and 2B show a front view of a fully open guide body. [Figure 2D] A front view shows a partial view of the central component of the guide body. [Figure 3A] Figures 2A to 2D show the end regions of the radial bars in a perspective view. [Figure 3B] Figures 2A to 2D show the individual circling elements in perspective views. [Figure 3C] The articulated joints of the circumferential elements are shown in the corresponding cross-sectional view in Figure 2B. [Figure 4A] Here, an exemplary alternative embodiment of the guide body for the line guide device shown in Figures 1A-1B, which has three radial bars, is shown in perspective view. [Figure 4B] Here, an exemplary alternative embodiment of the guide body for the line guide device shown in Figures 1A-1B, which has three radial bars, is shown in a front view. [Figure 5A] Here, a more preferred exemplary embodiment of the guide body for the line guide device shown in Figures 1A-1B, which has five radial bars, is shown in perspective view. [Figure 5B] Here, a more preferred exemplary embodiment of the guide body for a line guide device according to Figures 1A-1B, having five radial bars, is shown in a front view. [Figure 6A] A preferred embodiment of a line guide device according to a second independent aspect of the present invention is shown in a side view in the extended position. [Figure 6B] A preferred embodiment of a line guide device according to an independent second aspect of the present invention is shown in a fragmentary side view of the deflection region of the reduced bending radius. [Figure 7A] A preferred exemplary embodiment of a spacer body for a line guide device according to a particularly second aspect of the present invention is shown in a perspective view. [Figure 7B] A preferred exemplary embodiment of a spacer body for a line guide device according to a particularly second aspect of the present invention is shown in plan and side views. [Figure 7C] A preferred exemplary embodiment of a spacer body for a line guide device according to a particularly second aspect of the present invention is shown in plan and side views. [Figure 7D]A preferred exemplary embodiment of a spacer body for a line guide device according to a particularly second aspect of the present invention is shown in the front view. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0078] Further details, features, and advantageous effects of the present invention should become apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0079] Figures 1A and 1B show an example of a line guide device 10 in a suspension configuration having a first vertical longitudinal section 12A with a first end 12C and a second vertical longitudinal section 12B with a second end 12D. The first end 12C is connected to a machine component M, such as an excavation head, and in this example, moves vertically up and down. The second longitudinal section 12B is fixed at one end 12D to a frame structure or a stationary machine component F. In Figure 1A, the loop 13 forms a free suspension deflection region connecting the two substantially vertically suspended longitudinal sections 12A and 12B.

[0080] The line guide device 10 has a flexible transport cable 11 made of high-strength plastic fibers, such as high-elasticity polyethylene or high-elasticity polyamide, which, as a transport strand, bears a weight load. For this purpose, the free or protruding end regions 11A, 11B on both sides of the transport cable 11 are appropriately fixed to movable mechanical parts M and stationary mechanical parts F (schematically shown in Figure 1A). As a second essential component, the line guide device 10 has a plurality of annularly closed guide bodies 14 that are interconnected in the longitudinal direction of the transport strand 11 (Figure 1B). The guide bodies 14 are arranged in a line relative to the transport cable 11 and are thereby supported and held by it. As a result, the transport cable 11 bears at least the total weight of all the guide bodies 14.

[0081] As shown in Figure 1B, the loop 13 between the longitudinal sections 12A and 12B forms a relatively small radius, meaning that the longitudinal sections 12A and 12B can extend with only a small horizontal gap between them. This small radius is made possible, in particular, by the fact that adjacent guide bodies 14 can form acute angles with respect to each other. Each guide body 14 is spatially movable relative to each other, as shown in Figure 1B. However, the gap between the longitudinal sections 12A and 12B may be larger depending on the specific application, and the longitudinal sections 12A and 12B do not have to hang vertically. The line guide device 10 can extend in different ways depending on the application.

[0082] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram of a deflection roller U around which the line guide device 10 is deflected. Depending on the weight load, for example, the length of the free suspension portion (longitudinal portion) 12A, a large radial force may act on the guide body 14 in the direction of its radius R.

[0083] Figures 2A-2B show a first exemplary embodiment of a guide body 14 for a line guide device 10, which has been further developed to absorb large radial forces. Each guide body 14 has, internally, a central member or central component 15A having a passage opening 16 coaxial with the central axis A for passing the central axis A and the conveying strand 11 (Figure 1A), and externally, an outer component 15B having, here, four circumferential elements 17, each arc-shaped, here with an arc length of approximately 90 degrees, for holding a line (not shown). For this purpose, each circumferential element 17 borders a receiving region L radially outward that opens axially for one or more lines.

[0084] The central component 15A includes a fastening device 18 for statically fastening the guide body 14 to the suspension cable (transport cable) 11 (see Figure 2A) in the axial direction. This is embodied in Figures 2A to 2D as a screw fastening device (fastening device) 18 in the form of an articulated fastening shell.

[0085] For this purpose, the central component 15A has two integral components 20A, 20B manufactured integrally from plastic, each having an internal clamping shell 21A, 21B. Their conjugate configuration forms a hinged joint 24 (see Figure 2B) on one side of the clamping shells 21A, 21B that pivotably connects them. On the opposite side, the clamping shells 21A, 21B have through-thread openings for clamping screws 25 that clamp the substantially U-shaped clamping shells 21A, 21B against each other. Other fastening devices 18, such as quick-release clamping devices, may be considered as alternatives. The clamping shells 21A, 21B are further formed around two substantially semi-cylindrical inner surfaces of a through-opening (passage opening) 16. As a result of tightening the clamping shells 21A and 21B, the inner surface of the passage opening 16 is fixed to the transport strand (transport cable) 11 in a forced locking relationship, so that the central component 15A, i.e., the guide body 14, is fastened to the transport cable 11. Profiles extending in the transverse direction of the central axis A, such as a clamping tooth configuration, are provided on the inner surfaces of the two clamping shells 21A and 21B for better axial fixation.

[0086] As shown in Figures 2B-2D, each of the two components 20A and 20B further comprises two radial bars 22A, 22B and 22C, 22D, respectively, integrated with their respective clamping shells 21A and 21B. Thus, according to Figures 2A-2D, the central region or central component 15A comprises a total of four radial bars 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D, which are uniformly distributed circumferentially at angular intervals of approximately 90 degrees. Figure 2D shows only the inner component (central component) 15A bent and opened using the joint 24 without the outer component 15B or circumferential element 17, and its opening is sufficient for lateral mounting to the transport strand 11.

[0087] The outer components 15B are all attached to the radially outer end regions of the first type of bars 22A or 22C, and are all of the same structure. These first bars 22A or 22C are here attached, in this case, to two circumferential elements 17 articulated, here in pairs, by articulated joints 23, in the form of hinged swivel joints or rotary joints. Thus, the two circumferential elements 17 are each pivotably connected to the corresponding bars 22A or 22C of the central component 15A by the associated articulated joints 23, for example, hinges, between the closed position in Figure 2B and the open position in Figure 2C. This facilitates the insertion of a line into or removal of a line from one of the receiving regions L. The four circumferential elements 17 are here preferably standard parts, and are realized, for example, as plastic parts, particularly molded parts manufactured by injection molding, in the form of quadrant arcs.

[0088] At the first end, the circumferential element 17 forms an axially extending swivel pin 23A or bearing bolt (Figure 3B) that is rotatably mounted within the rotation receiving portion 23B of the articulated joint 23. The rotation receiving portion 23B is provided on a hook-shaped projection 23C that is arranged substantially tangentially, as is most clearly visible in Figure 3C, and both of these projections are located on either side of the first type of bar 22A or 22C.

[0089] Figure 3B further shows two support surfaces 17A positioned axially on both sides adjacent to the joint region having the pivot pin 23A at the first end of the circumferential element 17. These support surfaces support the first end of the circumferential element 17, together with the articulated joint 23, to the respective radial bars 22A or 22C circumferentially and against axial inclination when the circumferential element 17 is closed. The support surfaces 17A here simultaneously form an angular contact area in the closed position (Figure 2B). Two stop surfaces 17B are further radially outward to define the pivot release angle in the fully open position (not the stop position in Figure 2C). As shown in Figure 3C, the first end of the circumferential element 17 forms a retractable release surface 17C between surfaces 17A and 17B, which, in cooperation with the hook-shaped projection 23C on bars 22A and 22C, allows the swivel pin to be released from the hook or rotation receiving portion 23B only within a limited angular range when the snap-fit ​​connection at the second end is released.

[0090] The second end of the circumferential element 17 also forms a support surface 17D, thereby enabling the second end to be supported circumferentially by the corresponding radial bars 22B and 22D.

[0091] At its second end, the circumferential element 17 may be fastened to two further bars 22B, 22D at the radial end regions of these second bars 22B, 22D, which are configured according to a second type by snap-fit ​​connections to close the circumferential element 17 in a closed pivot position (Figure 2B). For this purpose, the second end of the circumferential element 17 forms a locking receiver 27A that can engage with a complementary or conjugate locking projection 27B on the second type of bar 22B or 22D to fix the circumferential element 17 in the closed position. In this case, the locking receiver 27A and the locking projection 27B are configured to extend substantially tangentially and be released by levering or twisting in the tangential direction but not immediately released by purely radial force. Furthermore, a fixing projection 27C is provided on the locking projection 27B and engages with a recess 27D at the second end of the circumferential element 17 to fix it in the circumferential direction.

[0092] Figures 2A-2C further show an annular elastic buffer 19 made of elastomer, which surrounds the circumferential element 17 substantially around its entire circumference. The buffer 19 may be rounded toward the circumferential surface in cross-section or at its axial ends, acting as an angular contact portion to limit the minimum deflection radius of the loop 13 (Figure 1B) on the one hand, and to cushion radial impacts, for example, against impacts during installation / processing or during transport on the other hand. The buffer 19 is securely held axially relative to the circumferential element by having one or more inner projections (Figure 2A) that engage with an annular recess on the outside of the circumferential element 17. For this purpose, the circumferential element 17 has radially projecting edges 17E at both axial end faces that hold the buffer 19, as shown in Figure 3B.

[0093] Figure 3A further shows a fixing region 29A that protrudes radially on the bar 22B, having a through-screw opening 29B for a fixing screw 29C, along with a safety nut that closes the buffer 19 in a trapping manner and fastens it to the central component 15A. In this way, the circumferential element 17 is simultaneously trappingly fixed to the central component 15A by the buffer, independently of the articulated joint 23 and the snap-fit ​​connection (locking receiving portion 27A, locking projection 27B) (see Figure 2B). As a result, the radial dimension of the bar 22B is larger than that of the bar 22D by the dimension of the protruding fixing region 29A. The bar 22D is otherwise implemented identically, and in particular has locking projections 27B on both sides as shown in Figure 3A (see Figure 2B).

[0094] The inner diameter determined radially between the circumferential elements 17 is greater than 350 mm here, for example, in the range of 400 mm.

[0095] Each buffer 19 is in the form of an open ring with a gap for attachment to the bar 22B and is closed by a fixing screw 29C. In this example, the buffer 19 does not protrude axially beyond the circumferential element 17, but instead is axially flush with the axial end of the circumferential element 17. However, a protruding configuration is also possible. The elastically shock-absorbing buffer 19 may be solid, or preferably, for weight reduction, may be implemented as a profile body as shown in Figure 2A, or as a hollow body.

[0096] Figure 2A further illustrates two axially projecting joint regions 26A, 26B of the central component 15A. They act for a specified low-wear relative movement of adjacent guide bodies 14, returning from an extended position in the longitudinal portions 12A, 12B to a fully bent position at the apex of the loop 13 (at the bottom of Figure 1B) without transverse displacement relative to each other. For this purpose, each central component 15A has two joint regions 26A, 26B in a confronting relationship at its ends, coaxial with the central axis A. The opposing joint regions 26A, 26B are of the following conjugate or paired embodiment: It is an embodiment in which one joint region 26A can be coaxially releasably inserted into the other conjugate joint region 26B of the adjacent guide body with little or no force applied and without the need for any tools, thereby preventing the transmission of tensile force in the direction of axis A. The structure of the joint regions 26A, 26B corresponds in itself to the teachings of International Publication No. 2019 / 243377.

[0097] Figures 4A-4B show an exemplary alternative embodiment of the guide body 44 for the line guide device relating to Figures 1A-1B. The guide body 44 has only three radial bars 42A, 42B, and 42C. The radial bar 42A forms two articulated joints to which a circumferential element 47 is attached, as in the case of bar 22A in Figures 2A-3C. The radial bar 42A forms two snap-fit ​​connections at its two ends to which the circumferential element 47 is attached. On the other hand, the radial bar 42C has an articulated joint at one end and a snap-fit ​​connection with an adjacent circumferential element 47 at the other end. In this case, the circumferential element 47 has an arc of about 120 degrees and, otherwise, can correspond to the structure in Figures 2A-3C, particularly with respect to the articulated joint and snap-fit ​​connections. Further features of the guide body 44 also correspond to the first exemplary embodiment, with two radial bars 42A and 42B provided on one of the components of the central part 15A, and a single radial bar 42C provided integrally with the other component.

[0098] Figures 5A-5B show an exemplary alternative embodiment of the guide body 54 for the line guide device according to Figures 1A-1B. The guide body 54 has only five radial bars 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, and 52E. Each radial bar 52A-52E here has, on the one hand, a projection for the articulated joint 23 corresponding to Figure 3C, and on the other hand, a locking projection for a snap-fit ​​connection with the corresponding locking receiver corresponding to Figures 3A-3B in its radial end region. In Figures 5A-5B, the circumferential element 57 has an arc of approximately 70 degrees, and otherwise, particularly with respect to the articulated joint and snap-fit ​​connection, is realized by the structure of Figures 2A-3C. Further features of the guide body 54 correspond to the first exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 2A to 2D, where three radial bars 52A, 52B, and 52C are provided on one of the components of the central part 15A, and two radial bars 52D and 52E are provided integrally with the other.

[0099] Herein, an independent second aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 6-7. Figures 6A-6B show exemplary embodiments of the line guide device 60. The line guide device 60 is shown in Figure 6A for illustrative purposes only in its extended position and is shortened for practical applications.

[0100] For example, the line guide device 60 enables a significantly reduced radius of curvature or bending radius KR (see Figure 6B) compared to the structure known, for example, in International Publication No. 2019 / 243377, as shown in Figure 1C.

[0101] For this purpose, at least one spacer body 70 is provided between each of the two guide bodies 14 (not shown here, see Figure 1A) for the conveying strand, either in the deflected longitudinal section (Figure 6B) or along the entire length of the line guide device 60. The spacer body 70 ensures the axial distance between the central components 15A (see Figures 2A-2D or Figures 4-5) of the two guide bodies 14. The guide body 14 may have a well-known structure in this case, having a central component 15A and an outer component 15B, for example, the structure described in International Publication No. 2019 / 243377, or actually the structure shown in attached drawings 2A-2D or Figures 4-5, so it will not be described in further detail.

[0102] In contrast to Figures 1-5, the line guide device 60 therefore does not consist of the same body or link, but rather has two different bodies or links as main components in addition to the conveying strand 11 (Figure 1A).

[0103] On the other hand, as shown in Figures 7A to 7D, the spacer body 70 is constructed in a different manner from the guide body 14 and has a significantly reduced outer diameter compared to the guide body 14. In particular, the spacer body 70 does not have an outer component 15B equivalent to that of the guide body 14 and does not act to guide or hold the line radially. In this example, as shown in Figure 6B, the spacer body 70 does not have a component that penetrates the receiving space (receiving region) L radially so that the outer components 15B of the two guide bodies 14 that are held spaced apart by the spacer body 70 can come into direct contact with each other at the fully deflected relative position. This allows for a significantly smaller bending radius even in the case of guide bodies 14 that are large in terms of outer diameter and / or axial direction of the outer component 15B.

[0104] In the examples shown in Figures 6A to 6B, when viewed along the transport cable, every other link-shaped body of the line guide device 60 is a guide body 14, and every other body alternating thereafter is a spacer body 70. However, other configurations, such as a configuration having two spacer bodies 70 between every two guide bodies 14, are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0105] As can be seen, for example, by comparing the cross-sectional or front view of Figure 7D with that of Figure 2B, the spacer body 70 has a compactly constructed outer contour in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. This is substantially located within the radially inner boundary of the receiving region L for the line (see, for example, Figure 2B), defined by the central component 15A of the guide body 14.

[0106] The spacer body 70 connects two adjacent bodies, i.e., the guide body 14 or the spacer body 70, in a spatially deflectable and articulated manner. For this purpose, the spacer body has two joint regions 76A, 76B at opposing ends, which are realized to correspond to the corresponding joint regions 26A, 26B (see Figure 2A) of the central component 15A of the guide body 14. The structure of the joint regions 26A, 26B or 76A, 76B itself corresponds, for example, to the teachings in International Publication No. 2019 / 243377, in particular, which can enable a ball-joint-like connection that can be released axially by the joint heads (joint regions) 26A, 76A and the joint receiving portions (joint regions) 26B, 76B. The spacer body 70 is axially dimensioned so that a consistently uniform chain pitch T is realized along its entire length.

[0107] The maximum outer diameter d of the spacer body 70 is preferably less than 30% of the outer diameter D of the outer component 15B of the guide body 14, and preferably less than or equal to the bounded inner diameter of the receiving region L. The outer diameter of the outer component 15B may be particularly larger than 2.8 times the chain pitch T, and even then the spacer body 70 can enable a very small bending radius KR of less than 150% of the outer diameter of the outer component 15B, for example, as shown in Figure 6B.

[0108] The spacer body 70 consists of two elongated semi-shell-shaped components 71 and 72, which, when installed, form an axial passage opening 73 for the conveying strand. For shaping and / or forced locking fastening to the conveying strand 11, the spacer body 70 is realized in the form of an articulated clamping shell. The components 71 and 72 form a clamping joint 74 in the form of a hinge with axes parallel to the longitudinal direction, which clamps the two shell-shaped components 71 and 72 by radially opposed clamping screws 75 by generating a radial clamping force against the conveying strand 11 (see Figures 7B-7D). The components 71 and 72 have outer contours without interfering edges and are realized without radially protruding bars.

Claims

1. For example, a line guide device (60) for guiding multiple lines such as cables or hoses, particularly for suspension applications in a drilling rig (1), Preferably, a flexible conveying strand (11) with high tensile strength extending over the length of the line guide device, A plurality of bodies arranged in the longitudinal direction with respect to the aforementioned transport strand, wherein adjacent bodies are spatially deflectable relative to each other, It is equipped with, and at least a part of the main body takes the form of a guide body (14), and all of them, A central component (15A) having a fastening device (18) for fastening to the transport strand (11), An outer component (15B) having at least one circumferential element (17) that defines a receiving region (L) for the line with respect to the outside, It has, In the longitudinal portion of the line guide device, at least one spacer body (70) is provided between two guide bodies (14) with respect to the conveying strand (11), and the spacer body (70) defines the distance between the central parts (15A) of the two guide bodies (14), and is configured in a different manner from the guide body (14), in particular having a reduced outer diameter compared to the guide body (14), and / or is configured so that the outer parts (15B) of the two guide bodies (14) can abut each other at the complete deflection relative position. For n ≥ 2, each n-unit body is realized as a guide body (14). A line guide device (60) is provided, in which each spacer body (70) connects two adjacent bodies in a spatially deflectable and articulated manner, and each spacer body (70) has two joint regions (76A, 76B) at opposing ends for articulated connection with the guide body (14), and the joint regions are realized to correspond to the corresponding joint regions (26A, 26B) of the central component (15A) of the guide body (14).

2. The line guide device (60) according to claim 1, wherein a single spacer body (70) is provided between every two guide bodies (14), and the guide bodies (14) are preferably provided alternately with the spacer bodies (70).

3. The line guide device (60) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spacer body (70) is realized with a compact outer contour in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and substantially lies within the radial inner boundary of the receiving region (L) for the line defined by the central component (15A) of the guide body (14).

4. The line guide device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the joint regions (76A, 76B) at opposing ends of each spacer body (70) are axially detachably connected to the corresponding joint regions (26A, 26B) of the central component (15A) of the guide body (14).

5. The line guide device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the spacer body (70) is axially dimensioned so that a consistently uniform chain pitch (T) is achieved in the longitudinal portion.

6. The outer component (15B) forms a circular ring-shaped outer contour. The maximum outer diameter of the spacer body (70) is less than 33%, particularly 30% or less, of the outer diameter of the outer part (15B) of the guide body (14), and / or The outer diameter of the outer part (15B) of the guide body (14) is at least 2.5 times the chain pitch, and in particular 2.8 times or more the chain pitch, and / or The line guide device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the outer diameter of the outer component (15B) is greater than 300 mm.

7. A multi-part embodiment of the line guide device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each spacer body (70) forms an axial passage opening for the conveying strand and has at least two components (71, 72) for shaping and / or forcing lock fastening to the conveying strand.

8. The line guide device (60) according to claim 7, wherein each spacer body (70) is realized in the form of an articulated clamping shell, and the line guide device (60) comprises a clamping joint (74) and a clamping screw (75) that fastens two shell-shaped components (71, 72) to the conveying strand (11) by generating a clamping force.

9. Each spacer body (70) substantially consists of two elongated semi-shell-shaped components (71, 72), the components being realized in particular having an outer contour without interfering edges and / or without radially protruding bars, according to claim 7 or 8.

Images