Clamping device with flexible exit barrier

Abstract

A clamping device (100) for clamping elongated articles (1, 2), the clamping device (100) comprising a body (102) into which the elongated articles (1, 2) can be inserted, an entrance opening (148, 248), an exit opening (150, 250) adjacent the entrance opening (148, 248), and a flexible barrier (162, 262) proximal to the exit opening (150, 250), the flexible barrier (162, 262) being contactable by an end of the elongated articles (1, 2). The clamping device (100) is configured to position the flexible barriers (162, 262) relative to the exit openings (150, 250) such that a force exerted by the ends of the elongated articles (1, 2) on the flexible barriers (162, 262) deflects the flexible barriers (162, 262) in an opening direction to allow the ends of the elongated articles (1, 2) to exit the clamping device (100) through the exit openings (150, 250), and the clamping device (100) is configured to limit the range of deflection of the flexible barriers (162, 262) in the opening direction to an acute angle.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a clamping device having a flexible barrier proximate an exit opening. In particular, the embodiments relate to a clamping device for clamping elongated items such as wires, wire ropes, cables, or the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Clamping devices for securing elongated articles in the form of cables or wire ropes are known. It is known that the clamping devices include an internal spring for biasing an internal clamping member against the elongated article. In some designs, the elongated article must be inserted in the correct orientation; if inserted in the opposite direction, the clamping device may not function properly. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a clamping device for clamping an elongated object, the clamping device comprising: a body into which an elongated object can be inserted; An entrance opening; an exit opening adjacent to the entrance opening; a flexible barrier proximal to the exit opening; the flexible barrier is positioned relative to the exit opening so as to be contactable by an end of the elongate article; deflecting the flexible barrier in an opening direction such that a force against the flexible barrier by the end of the elongated article allows the end of the elongated article to exit the clamping device through the exit opening; The clamping device is configured to limit the range of deflection of the flexible barrier in the opening direction to an acute angle.

[0004] The advantage is a more durable clamping device since the maximum stress in the flexible barrier is limited and the deflection cannot be more than 90 degrees.

[0005] The flexible barrier may be confined within a clamping device to limit the range of deflection of the flexible barrier in the opening direction to an acute angle.

[0006] The advantage is greater durability, as the flexible barrier is confined within the clamping device rather than being entirely on the exposed exterior of the clamping device.

[0007] The clamping device may include an end stop to prevent further deflection of the flexible barrier in the opening direction beyond the acute angle. The end stop may include an abutment surface contactable by the flexible barrier. The flexible barrier may become more parallel to the end stop as the flexible barrier is deflected in the opening direction.

[0008] In a neutral, undeflected state, the flexible barrier may extend at a first angle relative to the end stop. The first angle may be an acute angle relative to the end stop. Thus, the angular separation between the first angle and the end stop may be an acute angle. The angular separation may be less than 60 degrees, such as approximately 45 degrees.

[0009] The clamping device may further include a second end stop for preventing deflection of the flexible barrier from a neutral, undeflected state in a direction opposite the opening direction beyond an acute angle. The second end stop may include an abutment surface contactable by an abutment portion of the flexible barrier to limit deflection to an acute angle. The abutment portion may include a boss.

[0010] The first angle may be in a direction that prevents insertion of the elongated article through the exit opening and allows the elongated article to exit the clamping device through the exit opening.

[0011] An advantage of the flexible barrier is that it prevents the insertion of elongated items in the wrong direction. This is superior to using visual markers such as arrows, which may be misinterpreted or go unnoticed by some users. However, in some instances, arrows may additionally be painted on the body of the clamping device.

[0012] The exit opening may be adjacent to the entrance opening by being located at the same end of the clamping device as the entrance opening. The flexible barrier may block the exit opening but not the entrance opening. Thus, the entrance opening may be an unblocked opening, while the exit opening may be an opening blocked by the flexible barrier. The flexible barrier may be visible from outside the clamping device, such as by being closer to the exit opening than the clamp of the clamping device.

[0013] An advantage is that the flexible barrier provides a visual reference to which opening the elongated item should be inserted into.

[0014] The flexible barrier may include a flexible hinge supporting a contact member. The contact member may be positioned relative to the exit opening so as to be contactable by an end of the elongated article. A force of the flexible barrier against the contact member by the end of the elongated article may bias the contact member in an opening direction to allow the end of the elongated article to exit the clamping device through the exit opening. The clamping device may be configured to limit the range of deflection of the flexible hinge of the flexible barrier in the opening direction to an acute angle.

[0015] The flexible hinge may comprise a living hinge. The living hinge may be thinner than the contact members. The living hinge may be formed from the same material as the contact members. The end stop may be formed from this same material, which may be a plastic material. The flexible barrier and the end stop may be a single molded part.

[0016] The advantage is ease of manufacture. The living hinge is protected as it cannot flex in the opening direction beyond an acute angle.

[0017] The flexible barrier may be enclosed within the body of the clamping device. The flexible barrier may be enclosed within the body of the clamping device regardless of whether the flexible barrier is closed or open enough to allow the elongated article to pass through. The flexible barrier may be enclosed within the body of the clamping device regardless of the position of the flexible barrier within its deflection limits.

[0018] An advantage is improved durability as the flexible barrier is protected within the clamping device. Another advantage is that external objects cannot prevent the flexible barrier from opening.

[0019] The flexible barrier can be flexible about an axis substantially perpendicular to a plane. The plane can be a plane of clamp movement of the clamping device and / or a plane along which one or more elongated articles are configured to extend within the clamping device. When the flexible barrier is deflected in the opening direction, a restoring force direction of the flexible barrier can be within the plane.

[0020] When the flexible barrier is deflected in the opening direction, the direction of the restoring force of the flexible barrier may be substantially perpendicular to the plane of the surface of the clamping device along which the elongated item is configured to extend when clamped.

[0021] The advantage is improved alignment, as the forces on the sides of the elongate article - the clamping force from the clamp and the smaller force from the biased barrier - are in a common plane.

[0022] The clamping device may include a portion adjacent the exit opening and to which the flexible barrier is attached. This portion may include an end cap and / or a spring seat. This portion may be an end cap comprising the spring seat and the flexible barrier. The sides of this portion may further define the end stop referred to above. This portion may be a single molded part referred to above.

[0023] The clamping device may comprise a clamp. The clamp may comprise a clamping surface. The clamping surface may be serrated. The clamp may be wedge-shaped or circular. If wedge-shaped, the clamp may comprise a wedge surface opposite the clamping surface.

[0024] The clamping device may include a spring configured to bias the clamp into clamping engagement with the elongated article. The spring may be configured to resist movement of the clamp out of clamping engagement with the elongated article. The spring may be seated against the clamp and against the portion comprising the flexible barrier. The spring may comprise a coil spring. The spring may comprise a compression spring.

[0025] The clamping device may include a releaser movable from a home position to a release position to move the clamp out of clamping engagement with the elongated article. The releaser may include an input button depressible by a user's finger. Depressing the releaser may push the clamp out of clamping engagement with the elongated article. A spring may be compressed as the releaser moves to the release position.

[0026] The clamp may be slidable at an oblique angle to the passageway along which the elongate article extends in use. The clamp may be slidable at an oblique angle in the plane of clamp movement of the clamping device. The oblique angle may have a value of less than 30 degrees or less than 20 degrees. If the clamp is wedge-shaped, the angle of taper of the clamp may be equal to the oblique angle to the passageway.

[0027] The advantage of this low angle is that the clamp can be easily slid to clamp onto the wire rope, but can also be easily released. Lower oblique angle values ​​allow for higher clamping forces, while steeper angles allow for improved ease of release.

[0028] The clamping device may include a first clamping formation, and the clamp may be configured to clamp the elongated item against the first clamping formation. The clamping formation may be a clamping wall. The clamping wall may extend along the passageway.

[0029] The clamping device may include a second clamping formation for applying a clamping force to the clamp. Thus, the clamp and the elongated item are clamped between the first clamping formation and the second clamping formation. The second clamping formation may be a second clamping wall. The second clamping formation may converge toward the first clamping formation at an oblique angle to the first passage.

[0030] The clamping surface of the clamp can be parallel to the first clamping formation, and the wedge surface of the clamp can be parallel to the second clamping formation.

[0031] With respect to the flexible barrier, the first angle at which the flexible barrier extends may be an oblique angle relative to the passageway.

[0032] It will be appreciated that the oblique angle at which the clamp can slide relative to the first clamping formation gives the clamping device a "handedness." An elongated item can only be easily inserted in one direction. If the end of the elongated item is inserted in the correct insertion direction, the end of the elongated item will push the clamp away from the first clamping formation at an oblique angle. This creates space between the first clamping formation and the clamp, allowing the elongated item to be pushed past the clamp so that the clamp can engage the side of the elongated item. Once engaged, the elongated item will be clamped against being pulled back. However, if the end of the elongated item is inserted into the clamping device in the incorrect, reverse insertion direction, the end of the elongated item will not be able to push the clamp away. This is because the end of the elongated item will be pushing the clamp toward the first clamping formation at an oblique angle.

[0033] The clamping device may include multiple passageways. The entrance opening and the exit opening may be openings for separate passageways of the clamping device. The body of the clamping device defines multiple passageways for receiving one or more elongated articles, and the multiple passageways may include a first passageway and a second passageway. The entrance opening may be a first entrance opening for accessing the first passageway. The clamping device may include a first exit opening for exiting the first passageway. The clamping device may further include a second entrance opening for accessing the second passageway. The exit opening may be a second exit opening for exiting the second passageway.

[0034] An advantage of multiple passages is a more versatile clamping device as it can be used to secure multiple elongated articles or a single loop of elongated articles.

[0035] The first exit opening may be adjacent to the second entrance opening. The first entrance opening and the second exit opening may be at the same first end of the clamping device. The second entrance opening and the first exit opening may be at the same second end of the clamping device, opposite the first end of the clamping device. The clamping device may include another flexible barrier proximate the first exit opening. The flexible barrier proximate the first exit opening may be the first barrier, and the flexible barrier proximate the second exit opening may be the second barrier.

[0036] The clamping device may include a separate end stop for each barrier. Each end stop may be as described above. Each end stop may be part of a separate end cap. Each end cap / portion comprising a respective barrier may be located at an opposite one of the first and second ends of the clamping device.

[0037] The clamping device may include a plurality of clamps, each passageway may be associated with a different one of the clamps, and each clamp may apply a clamping force in an opposing direction.

[0038] The clamping device may include a plurality of springs, and each passage may be associated with a different one of the springs. The clamping device may include a plurality of end caps, and each passage may be associated with a different one of the end caps. The clamping device may include a plurality of first and second clamping formations, and each passage may be associated with a different pair of first and second clamping formations. The clamping device may include a plurality of releasers, and each passage may be associated with a different one of the releasers. The releasers and end caps may be at opposing first and second ends of the clamping device.

[0039] For a better understanding of various example embodiments of the present invention, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a clamping device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the clamping device with the releaser in an unactuated state. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the clamping device with the releaser activated. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates an end cross-sectional view through the center of the clamping device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates the clamp. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates an end view of the releaser and end cap with a flexible barrier. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates an end view of the end cap in which the spring is seated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] 1 illustrates an example clamping device 100 for clamping elongated articles 1, 2. The elongated articles 1, 2 may be in the form of wire, wire rope, cable, or the like. The elongated articles 1, 2 may be separate wires that are joined end-to-end by the clamping device 100. Alternatively, the elongated articles 1, 2 may be the same wire, such that the clamping device 100 secures a loop of the wire. In another implementation, the clamping device 100 is for clamping only one elongated article 1 at a time.

[0042] As shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 2 to 4 and the component diagrams of FIGS. 5 to 7, the clamping device 100 comprises a main body 102 and internal components within the main body 102.

[0043] The internal components include clamps 104, 204. Each clamp 104, 204 is an effector for engaging an elongated article 1, 2.

[0044] As shown in Figures 2-4 and 5, each clamp 104, 204 includes an elongated clamp body 120, 220 in the form of a clamping wedge. The clamp body 120, 220 may be a wedge-shaped prism. The clamp body 120, 220 is movable within the clamping device 100. The clamps 104, 204 are not limited to the particular shapes and configurations shown. For example, the clamps 104, 204 may have another suitable shape, such as a circular shape defining a roller.

[0045] Each clamp body 120, 220 has a leading end 122, 222 and an opposite trailing end 124, 224. In use, each clamp 104, 204 can be biased into engagement with the elongated item 1, 2 in a direction with the leading end 122, 222 leading the trailing end 124, 224.

[0046] Each clamp body 120, 220 includes a clamping surface 118, 218 extending between its ends. The clamping surfaces 118, 218 have a plurality of parallel serrations to provide a tight engagement with the elongated items 1, 2. As shown, the serrations may extend perpendicular to the axis of the elongated items 1, 2.

[0047] The opposite surface of the clamp body 120, 220 behind the clamping surface 118, 218 is a wedge surface 126, 226. The wedge surface 126, 226 faces the inner wall 132, 232 of the clamping device 100 and may contact the inner wall 132, 232 to wedge the clamp 104, 204 and elongated item 1, 2 between the pair of tapered inner walls 130-132 or 230-232. In some examples, the wedge surface 126, 226 is a sliding surface configured to slide along the inner wall 132, 232.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 4-5, each clamp body 120, 220 also has left and right sides 152-154 and 252-254 (sides) that interconnect the clamping surfaces 118, 218 and the wedge surfaces 126, 226.

[0049] The wedge surfaces 126, 226 of the clamp bodies 120, 220 taper inwardly from the trailing ends 124, 224 to the leading ends 122, 222 to create a wedge shape. The taper of the wedge surfaces 126, 226 can be a uniform taper from the trailing ends 124, 224 to the leading ends 122, 222. The clamps 104, 204 have a height that decreases substantially uniformly from the trailing ends 124, 224 to the leading ends 122, 222 to form the wedge configuration.

[0050] As shown in Figures 2-3, springs 106, 206 wedge each clamp 104, 204 into a small area of ​​the interior space 128, 228 within clamping device 100 so that clamping surfaces 118, 218 of clamps 104, 204 are biased against the sides of elongated items 1, 2. The springs 106, 206 ensure that clamps 104, 204 remain in their required clamping positions during use. One end of the springs 106, 206 contacts the rear ends 124, 224 of clamps 104, 204. As best shown in Figure 7, the other end of the springs 106, 206 contacts the spring seats 111 of the end caps 110, 210.

[0051] In use, elongated articles 1, 2 can be fed through clamping apparatus 100 in a feed direction +F, which depends on the orientation of springs 106, 206, which are at an oblique angle to elongated articles 1, 2, and the direction of movement of clamps 104, 204. Once fed into clamping apparatus 100, clamps 104, 204 are in clamping engagement with the sides of elongated articles 1, 2 to prevent slippage.

[0052] The bevel angle can be less than 45 degrees. The bevel angle can be less than 30 degrees. The bevel angle can be greater than 5 degrees. The bevel angle can be approximately 12 degrees for an optimal balance between clamping force and ease of release.

[0053] The elongated articles 1, 2 can be inserted by feeding them along their axes in a feed direction +F through suitable opening structures 148-150 or 248-250 of the clamping device 100 and through internal passages 112, 212 connecting the openings 148-150, 248-250 of the opening structures. In the illustrated example, the opening structures include entrance openings 148, 248 and exit openings 150, 250 opposite the entrance openings 148, 248. The elongated articles 1, 2 cannot be easily inserted through the exit openings 150, 250 because they would be resisted by the clamps 104, 204.

[0054] The shape of the interior space 128, 228 of the clamping device 100 can play a role in enabling the clamps 104, 204 to apply force to the elongated articles 1, 2. As shown in FIG. 4 , the space 128, 228 is bounded by the walls of the body 102, including the first clamping walls 130, 230, the second clamping walls 132, 232, and the side walls 156-158, 256-258 connecting the first and second clamping walls 130, 230 and 132, 232. The first clamping walls 130, 230 are surfaces against which the sides of the elongated articles 1, 2 are compressed. The second clamping walls 132, 232 are tapered surfaces against which the wedge surfaces 126, 226 of the clamps 104, 204 are wedged.

[0055] As shown in Figures 2-4, the first clamping walls 130, 230 may extend from the entrance openings 148, 248 toward the exit openings 150, 250. As shown in Figure 4, the illustrated first clamping walls 130, 230 include optional grooves along their lengths for seating the elongated items 1, 2.

[0056] 4, the body 102 of the clamping device 100 may include a partition 160 that divides the interior spaces 128 and 228 from one another. Opposite surfaces of the partition 160 may form first clamping walls 130, 230 for the respective interior spaces 128, 228.

[0057] The partition 160 may extend linearly between the inlet and outlet openings 148-150 / 248-250, such that the passages 112, 212 are substantially linear and parallel to one another. However, in other examples, the paths of the passages 112, 212 may be non-parallel.

[0058] 2-4, the second clamping wall 132, 232 is a surface against which the clamp 104, 204 may slide. The second clamping wall 132, 232 tapers toward the first clamping wall 130, 230 with increasing proximity to the entrance opening 148, 248. Thus, the second clamping wall 132, 232 is a ramp for the clamp 104, 204.

[0059] As a result, the interior space 128, 228 within the body 102 of the clamping device 100 has a cross-sectional area that decreases toward the entrance openings 148, 248, as the second clamping walls 132, 232 taper toward the first clamping walls 130, 230. The springs 106, 206 slide the clamps 104, 204 along the second clamping walls 132, 232 toward the entrance openings 148, 248, wedging the clamps 104, 204 into the increasingly narrow gap between the first and second clamping walls 130, 230 and 132, 232. This presses the clamping surfaces 118, 218 of the clamps 104, 204 against the sides of the elongated items 1, 2.

[0060] The clamps 104, 204 are wedged between the second clamping walls 132, 232 and the sides of the elongated articles 1, 2 by the springs 106, 206. The elongated articles 1, 2 are wedged between the clamping surfaces 118, 218 of the clamps 104, 204 and the first clamping walls 130, 230 of the clamping device 100.

[0061] In use, when the elongated articles 1, 2 are pulled in the feed direction +F, which is generally opposite the direction of the biasing (restoring) force of the springs 106, 206, the clamps 104, 204 are pushed out of the passages 112, 212. This overcomes the bias of the biased (e.g., compressed) springs 106, 206. This enlarges the passages 112, 212 along which the elongated articles 1, 2 can be pulled, allowing the elongated articles 1, 2 to be pulled through the exit openings 150, 250. The clamps 104, 204 provide limited resistance to pulling the elongated articles 1, 2 in the feed direction +F.

[0062] When the elongated items 1, 2 are received through the clamping device 100, the clamping surfaces 118, 218 of the clamps 104, 204 engage the sides of the elongated items 1, 2 within the passages 112, 212.

[0063] When the clamped elongated items 1, 2 are pulled in the opposite direction -F opposite to the feed direction +F, this has the effect of pulling the clamps 104, 204 together with the elongated items 1, 2 into the narrow gap between the first and second clamping walls 130, 230 and 132, 232, thereby tightly clamping the elongated items 1, 2 and the clamps 104, 204 between the first and second clamping walls 130, 230 and 132, 232.

[0064] 1-3, the second clamp 204 may apply a clamping force in the opposite direction to the first clamp 104. The clamping forces of the clamps 104 and 204 may be coplanar and in opposite directions, so that the elongated articles 1 and 2 should be fed from opposite ends of the clamping device 100.

[0065] Thus, the entrance opening 148 for the first passageway 112 is adjacent to the exit opening 250 for the second passageway 212 at a first end of the clamping apparatus 100. Similarly, the entrance opening 248 for the second passageway 212 is adjacent to the exit opening 150 for the first passageway 112 at a second, opposite end of the clamping apparatus 100.

[0066] It is desirable to provide means for releasing the clamping force so as to allow the elongate articles 1, 2 to be withdrawn from the clamping device 100 in a direction -F opposite to the feed direction +F. Releasers 108, 208 are therefore provided.

[0067] One releaser 108 is for releasing a first elongated article 1 in a first passageway 112, and the other releaser 208 is for releasing a second elongated article 2 in a second, parallel passageway 212. The illustrated releasers 108, 208 are connected to the same body 102. The illustrated releasers 108, 208 are located at opposite ends of the body 102. The illustrated releasers 108, 208 are located at opposite corners of the body 102. However, the releasers could be located elsewhere, such as along the side of the body 102.

[0068] Each illustrated releaser 108, 208 (FIGS. 1-3) allows a user to move the clamp 104, 204 out of the way and disengage the clamping surface 118, 218 of the clamp 104, 204 from the elongated item 1, 2.

[0069] 1-3 illustrate example releasers 108, 208 that include input buttons 136, 236 that can be depressed by a user's finger.

[0070] In Figure 2, the releasers 108, 208 are in their home position, while in Figure 3, the releasers 108, 208 are in the released position.

[0071] As long as the releaser 108, 208 is pushed (eg slid) to its release position, moving the clamp 104, 204, the elongated article 1, 2 can be pulled in the opposite direction -F.

[0072] The releaser 108, 208 actuates the tip 122, 222 of the clamp body 120, 220. The input button 136, 236 presses the releaser 108, 208 against the clamp 104, 204, causing the clamp 104, 204 to project in the opposite direction into the larger space of the clamping device 100. Figure 3 shows the resulting path of the clamp 104, 204, in this case at the oblique angle defined above.

[0073] Thus, depressing (pushing) the input button 136, 236 causes the clamp 104, 204 to project towards the wider portion of the interior space 128, 228 and towards the exit opening 150, 250. This releases the elongate article 1, 2.

[0074] Actuating the releaser 108, 208 to the release position biases (eg, compresses) the spring 106, 206, which exerts a reaction force toward the narrower portion of the interior space 128, 228.

[0075] Thus, when the user stops actuating the releaser 108,208, the springs 106,126 urge the clamps 104,204 back into their clamping position where the clamps 104,204 are in clamping engagement with the elongated items 1,2.

[0076] 1 and 6, the inlet opening 148, 248 of a given passageway 112, 212 may be defined by a hole through the releaser 108, 208. The outlet opening 250, 150 of an adjacent passageway 212, 112 may comprise a gap between the releaser 108, 208 and the adjacent end cap 110, 210, with the gap defining the hole / opening.

[0077] The illustrated clamping device 100 is a push-to-release device. In other implementations, the releasers 108, 208 may be actuated in other ways.

[0078] In terms of materials and manufacturing, the body 102 may be formed from a metallic material such as zinc, steel, aluminum, or any other suitable metal. In one example, the body 102 may be die-cast zinc. The releaser 108, 208 may optionally be formed from a plastic material.

[0079] As previously mentioned, elongated items 1, 2 cannot be easily inserted through exit openings 150, 250 because they would be resisted by clamps 104, 204. However, because exit openings 150, 250 are adjacent to entrance openings 148, 248, it may not be clear to an installer which is the exit opening and which is the entrance opening. The embossed arrows illustrated in FIG. 1 and aligned with entrance openings 148, 248 may go unnoticed by some installers.

[0080] Thus, as shown in FIGS. 2-3 and 6-7, clamping device 100 includes a flexible barrier 162,262 proximate each exit opening 150,250.

[0081] The flexible barriers 162, 262 are movable gates that can be moved by the ends of the elongated items 1, 2, allowing the ends of the elongated items 1, 2 to be fed through the exit openings 150, 250 when inserted in the correct feed direction +F.

[0082] The illustrated barrier 162, 262 is visible through the exit opening 150, 250. The flexible barrier 162, 262 is near the exit opening 150, 250 and is sub-flush with respect to the exit opening 150, 250. This indicates to the installer that they should not attempt to insert the elongated item 1, 2 through the opening 150, 250.

[0083] In the example, the flexible barrier 162, 262 is movable via elastic deformation. As shown in Figure 7, the flexible barrier 162, 262 includes a flexible hinge 164 that supports a contact member in the form of a flap 166 of material. The illustrated flap 166 substantially blocks the exit opening 150, 250 when in a neutral, undeflected state. The flexible hinge 164 allows for elastic deformation.

[0084] The flap 166 is shown cantilevered from the flexible hinge 164. The flexible hinge 164 may be in the form of a living hinge of locally thinned material relative to the material thickness of the flap 166.

[0085] The flexible hinge 164 is fixedly supported by a portion of the clamping device 100 proximal to the exit opening 150, 250. In the illustrated example, the end caps 110, 210 are the portions that carry and support the flexible barriers 162, 262. The end caps 110, 210 and the flexible barriers 162, 262 may be integrally molded plastic parts.

[0086] The illustrated flexible hinge 164 is connected to the inside of the end caps 110, 210 in the interior space 128, 228 of the clamping device 100. The flexible barrier 162, 262 is quasi-flush with the exit opening 150, 250.

[0087] 2-3, i.e., the plane along which the clamping movement is possible and along which the elongated articles 1, 2 extend. The restoring force of the flexible hinge 164 is therefore substantially in-plane and substantially towards the first clamping wall 130, 230 (even though the illustrated wall 130, 230 stops short of the flexible barrier 162, 262).

[0088] The proximal ends (fixed ends) of the flaps 166 of the flexible barriers 162, 262 are connected to the flexible hinges 164, while the distal ends (free ends) of the flaps 166 of the flexible barriers 162, 262 are separated from the adjacent boundaries of the clamping device 100.

[0089] When the flap 166 is not deflected, the separation "S" (FIG. 2) between the flexible barrier 162, 262 and the boundary is less than the nominal maximum diameter of the elongated articles 1, 2 that the clamping device 100 is configured to accommodate. For example, the separation S may be less than 2 millimeters or less than 1.5 millimeters. Thus, the elongated articles 1, 2 cannot pass through the flexible barrier 162, 262 without first deflecting the flap 166 to increase the separation.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 2, the flexible barriers 162, 262 are proximal to the sides of the adjacent releasers 208, 108 such that a separation distance S is between the distal ends of the flexible barriers 162, 262 and the sides of the releasers 208, 108.

[0091] Pressing on the flap 166 by the end of a correctly inserted elongated article 1, 2 inserted in the feed direction +F causes the flap 166 to deflect (rotate) in the opening direction (upward in Figure 7) about the flexible hinge 164. This allows the end of the elongated article 1, 2 to exit the clamping device 100 through the exit openings 150, 250.

[0092] As the flap 166 is deflected about the flexible hinge 164, the separation distance S increases. When the separation distance S is at least equal to the diameter of the elongated articles 1, 2 (the "minimum separation distance"), the ends of the elongated articles 1, 2 can pass through the space around the flap 166.

[0093] The flexible barriers 162, 262 are confined within the clamping device 100 such that the flexible barriers 162, 262 and the flexible hinges 164 are internal to the exit openings 150, 250. The opening direction of the flap 166 can be toward the exit openings 150, 250.

[0094] With the flaps 166 open in the opening direction by a minimum separation distance and open enough to allow the elongated items 1, 2 to pass through the flexible barriers 162, 262, the flaps 166 can remain within the envelope of the body 102 of the clamping device 100. This geometry prevents collision of the flaps 166 with external objects and means that the overall dimensions of the clamping device 100 are not affected.

[0095] With the flap 166 biased open to a minimum separation distance, the flap 166 may remain near-flush or sub-flush with the outlet openings 150, 250. This ensures that the flap 166 always remains within the interior space 128, 228.

[0096] In some, but not necessarily all, examples, the flexible barrier 162, 262 is configured as a one-way gate. The flexible barrier 162, 262 is shaped to allow elongated articles 1, 2 pulled in the feed direction +F to exit the clamping device 100 through the exit openings 150, 250, while blocking insertion of the elongated articles 1, 2 in the opposite direction −F through the exit openings 150, 250.

[0097] To enable unidirectional movement, the flaps 166 of the flexible barriers 162, 262 are oriented at an oblique angle relative to the corresponding passageways 112, 212. The flaps 166 are angled to minimize opening deflection to achieve minimum separation. In the illustrated example, the flaps 166 are oriented at an acute angle toward the plane of the outlet openings 150, 250 / away from the passageways 112, 212.

[0098] The acute angle of the flap 166 is configured such that when the elongated articles 1, 2 are inserted in the feed direction +F, a minimum separation distance is achieved by deflection of the flap 166 through the acute angle, which facilitates deflecting the flexible barrier 162, 262 out of the way.

[0099] However, if insertion is in the opposite, forbidden direction -F, the flap 166 would need to be deflected at an obtuse angle to achieve the minimum separation distance. Such deflection may not even be possible. Attempting insertion in the forbidden direction -F may require the user to damage the flexible barrier 162, 262, which may involve significant force.

[0100] 2-3 and 6-7, the flexible barriers 162, 262 are confined within the clamping device 100 to sharply limit the range of deflection of the flexible hinge 164 in the opening direction. As best shown in FIGS. 6-7, the deflection limits of the flexible barriers 162, 262 are defined by end stops in the form of abutment surfaces 170, 172 and result from the confinement of the flexible barriers 162, 262 within the clamping device 100.

[0101] Figures 6-7 show the first end stop in the form of a first abutment surface 170 which abuts when the flap 166 is deflected from its neutral, undeflected state in the opening direction by insertion of the ends (not shown) of the elongate articles 1, 2 in the feed direction +F.

[0102] The first abutment surface 170 is configured to limit the range of deflection of the flexible hinge 164 in the opening direction to an acute angle, which may be 45 degrees or less, or may be 60 degrees or less, relative to the neutral, undeflected state.

[0103] In the neutral, undeflected state of the flexible barrier 162, 262, the included angle between the flap 166 / flexible hinge 164 and the first abutment surface 170 may be equal to an acute angle.

[0104] The illustrated first abutment surface 170 is located on a first side of the flexible hinge 164. As shown, the first abutment surface 170 can be a portion of a side of the part of the flexible barrier 162, 262 to which the flexible hinge 164 is connected. In the illustrated example, this part is the end cap 110, 210. As shown in FIG. 7 , the side can be a surface of a dividing protrusion of the end cap 110, 210 that separates the flexible barrier 162, 262 from the spring seat 111. The first abutment surface 170 is a portion of a surface that extends from the flexible hinge 164 toward the outlet opening 150, 250.

[0105] As the flap 166 is deflected in the opening direction, the included angle between the flap 166 and the first abutment surface 170 decreases and becomes more parallel until the flap 166 abuts the first abutment surface 170. As shown, the first abutment surface 170 can extend generally parallel to the first pinching wall 130, 230.

[0106] With the flap 166 biased to abut the first abutment surface 170, the flap 166 may still remain within the envelope of the body 102 of the clamping device 100. With the flap 166 biased to abut the first abutment surface 170, the flap 166 may remain near-flush or sub-flush with the exit openings 150, 250.

[0107] Figure 7 shows a second end stop in the form of a second abutment surface 172 which is abutted by a portion of the flexible barrier 162, 262 when the flap 166 of the flexible barrier 162, 262 is deflected in a neutral, undeflected state in a second direction opposite the opening direction (downward in Figure 7) by insertion of the end of the elongated article 1, 2 in the prohibited direction -F.

[0108] The illustrated second abutment surface 172 is located on a second side opposite the flexible hinge 164. The second abutment surface 172 may be at 180 degrees relative to the first abutment surface 170. As shown, the second abutment surface 172 may be part of the same side of the same component (e.g., end cap 110, 210) to which the flexible hinge 164 of the flexible barrier 162, 262 is connected.

[0109] 7, the illustrated second abutment surface 172 is positioned to be contacted by a plurality of abutments 168 (or a single abutment 168) attached to the flexible barrier 162, 262. In the illustrated example, the abutment 168 is a boss protruding from the underside of the flexible hinge 164. When the flap 166 is deflected in the second direction, the abutment 168 rotates about the axis of the flexible hinge 164 until the abutment 168 contacts the second abutment surface 172. Before the flap 166 reaches the second abutment surface 172, the abutment 168 contacts the second abutment surface 172, limiting the overall deflection.

[0110] The combination of the second abutment surface 172 and the abutment portion 168 may limit the range of deflection of the flexible hinge 164 in the second direction to an acute angle. The acute angle may be 45 degrees or less, or may be 60 degrees or less, relative to the neutral, undeflected state. This prevents the flexible hinge 164 from being deformed beyond the acute angle in either direction from the neutral, undeflected state, limiting fatigue stresses regardless of which direction the elongated article 1, 2 presses against the flexible barrier 162, 262.

[0111] The second abutment surface 172 and the abutment portion 168 may be positioned to contact before the flap 166 rotates in the second direction an angle sufficient to provide a minimum separation distance for passage of the ends of the elongated articles 1, 2. Thus, if an incorrectly oriented insertion of the elongated articles 1, 2 is attempted, the abutment of the abutment portion 168 against the second abutment surface 172 will physically prevent the flexible barriers 162, 262 from opening sufficiently to allow passage of the ends of the elongated articles 1, 2.

[0112] Overall, the total range of deflection of the flexible hinge 164 in either direction from the neutral, undeflected state may be limited to no more than 90 degrees or no more than 120 degrees.

[0113] While embodiments of the present invention have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be understood that modifications to the examples provided may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed. For example, a clamping device 100 having a single one-way passageway may benefit from the flexible barriers 162, 262 described herein. For example, the clamping device 100 may include a single curved passageway connecting an entrance opening to an exit opening 150, 250 adjacent to the entrance opening at the same end as the entrance opening.

[0114] Furthermore, the manner in which the elongate articles 1, 2 are clamped may differ from that shown. If the clamping device 100 only allows for one-way insertion, a flexible barrier 162, 262 may be beneficial.

[0115] Features set forth in the foregoing description may be used in combinations other than those expressly set forth.

[0116] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may also be performed by other features, whether or not described.

[0117] Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, those features may also be present in other embodiments, whether or not described.

[0118] While the foregoing specification has attempted to draw attention to those features of the invention which are considered to be particularly important, it should be understood that applicants claim protection for any patentable feature or combination of features referred to above and / or shown in the drawings, whether or not specifically emphasized.

Claims

1. 1. A clamping device for clamping an elongated object, said clamping device comprising: a body into which the elongated object can be inserted; An entrance opening; an outlet opening adjacent to the inlet opening; a flexible barrier proximal to the exit opening; the flexible barrier is positioned relative to the outlet opening so as to be contactable by an end of the elongate article; deflecting the flexible barrier in an opening direction such that a force by the end of the elongated article against the flexible barrier allows the end of the elongated article to exit the clamping device through the exit opening; The clamping device is configured to limit the range of deflection of the flexible barrier in the opening direction to an acute angle.

2. The clamping device of claim 1 , wherein the flexible barrier is confined within the clamping device to limit the range of deflection of the flexible barrier in the opening direction to the acute angle.

3. 3. The clamping device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the clamping device comprises an end stop for preventing further deflection of the flexible barrier in the opening direction beyond the acute angle.

4. The clamping device of claim 3 , wherein the end stop comprises an abutment surface contactable by the flexible barrier.

5. 5. The clamping device of claim 3 or 4, wherein the flexible barrier becomes more parallel to the end stop as the flexible barrier is deflected in the opening direction.

6. 6. The clamping device of claim 3, 4 or 5, wherein in a neutral, undeflected state, the flexible barrier extends at a first angle relative to the end stop, the first angle being an acute angle relative to the end stop.

7. 7. The clamping device of claim 6, wherein the first angle is in a direction that prevents insertion of the elongated article through the exit opening and allows the elongated article to exit the clamping device through the exit opening.

8. 8. The clamping device of claim 6 or 7, wherein the clamp comprises a clamp that, in use, is slidable at an oblique angle to a path along which the elongated item extends, and the first angle at which the flexible barrier extends is an oblique angle to the path.

9. 9. The clamping device of claim 6, 7, or 8, further comprising a second end stop for preventing deflection of the flexible barrier from the neutral, undeflected state in a direction opposite the opening direction beyond an acute angle.

10. 10. The clamping device of claim 9, wherein the second end stop comprises an abutment surface contactable by an abutment portion of the flexible barrier to limit the deflection to an acute angle.

11. The clamping device of claim 10 , wherein the abutment comprises a boss.

12. 12. A clamping device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the exit opening is adjacent to the entrance opening by being located at the same end of the clamping device as the entrance opening, and the flexible barrier blocks the exit opening but not the entrance opening.

13. A clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the flexible barrier is closer to the outlet opening than the clamp of the clamping device, thereby making it visible from outside the clamping device.

14. 14. The clamping device of claim 1, wherein the flexible barrier comprises a flexible hinge supporting a contact member, the contact member being positioned relative to the exit opening so as to be contactable by the end of the elongated article, and a force of the end of the elongated article on the contact member of the flexible barrier biases the contact member in the opening direction so as to allow the end of the elongated article to exit the clamping device through the exit opening, and the clamping device is configured to limit the range of deflection of the flexible hinge of the flexible barrier in the opening direction to the acute angle.

15. The clamping device of claim 14 , wherein the flexible hinge comprises a living hinge.

16. 16. The clamping device of claim 15, wherein the living hinge is thinner than the contact members and / or is made from the same material as the contact members.

17. A clamping device according to any preceding claim, wherein the flexible barrier is encased within the body of the clamping device.

18. 18. The clamping device of claim 17, wherein the flexible barrier is encased within the body of the clamping device, whether the flexible barrier is closed or sufficiently open to allow the elongated item to pass through.

19. 20. The clamping device of claim 18, wherein the flexible barrier is encased within the body of the clamping device regardless of the position of the flexible barrier within its deflection limits.

20. 20. A clamping device according to any preceding claim, wherein the flexible barrier is flexible about an axis substantially perpendicular to a plane, the plane being a plane of clamping movement of the clamping device and / or a plane along which the elongated item is configured to extend within the clamping device.

21. The clamping device of claim 20, wherein the direction of the restoring force of the flexible barrier lies within the plane when the flexible barrier is deflected in the opening direction.

22. 22. The clamping device of claim 21, wherein when the flexible barrier is deflected in the opening direction, the direction of the restoring force of the flexible barrier is substantially perpendicular to the plane of a surface of the clamping device along which the elongated item is configured to extend when clamped.

23. A clamping device according to any preceding claim, comprising a portion adjacent the outlet opening and to which the flexible barrier is attached, said portion also comprising an end cap and / or a spring seat.

24. 24. The clamping device of claim 1, wherein the clamping device comprises a plurality of passageways, the entrance opening and the exit opening are openings for separate passageways of the clamping device, the body of the clamping device defining a plurality of passageways for receiving one or more elongated articles, the plurality of passageways comprising a first passageway and a second passageway, the entrance opening being a first entrance opening for accessing the first passageway, the clamping device further comprising a first exit opening for exiting the first passageway, the clamping device further comprising a second entrance opening for accessing the second passageway, the exit opening being a second exit opening for exiting the second passageway, the first exit opening being adjacent to the second entrance opening, the first entrance opening and the second exit opening being at a same first end of the clamping device, and the second entrance opening and the first exit opening being at a same second end of the clamping device opposite the first end of the clamping device.

25. 25. The clamping device of claim 24, further comprising another flexible barrier proximate the first exit opening.

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