Line guide system with simplified guide device for transverse stabilization and add-on module therefor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a line guide system (1) comprising an articulated line guide device (10) curved about a deflection axis (U) extending in a transverse direction (Q) perpendicular to a longitudinal direction (L) for guiding a supply line between two connection points (13, 15) movable relative to one another, and a separate guide device (20) for guiding the line guide device (10) along at least a portion of a path of travel (W). According to the invention, the guide device (20) comprises at least one guide strand (22) positionable to define a desired course of a portion of the path of travel (W). The line guide device (10) has an outer profile region (18) which is positioned to be located against and / or on the guide strands (22) and is designed with a profile shape to transversely stabilize the guiding action against or on the guide strands (22) by convex and / or concave engagement between the guide strands and the profile shape to resist lateral displacement of the movable line guide device (10) in the transverse direction (Q).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a line guiding system comprising a line guiding device for guiding a supply line and a separate guiding device for guiding the line guiding device. The line guiding device here guides a line, e.g. a cable, a hose, etc., along a path of movement from a first connection point to a second connection point, at least one of which is movable relative to the other, while the separate guiding device serves to guide the line guiding device along at least a part of the path of movement. [Background technology]

[0002] A line guide device is understood in this context to mean a line guide device for the dynamic guiding of supply lines supplying energy and process fluids to mobile consumers. This type of line guide device is usually articulated so that it can be turned or deflected to form two opposing runs, a first and a second run, and a deflection curve connecting them. During the movement, the deflection curve connecting the runs can move between the ends of the line guide device or their connection points. The deflection curve here is curved about a deflection axis, which extends in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction corresponds to the direction of the longitudinal extent of the run. Usually, one of the runs is stationary, while the other is movable.

[0003] Energy chains, known per se, are a particularly popular type of these dynamic line guide devices.

[0004] To counter deviations from the desired travel path, particularly in the case of long travel paths, typical systems may also be equipped with a separate guide device for guiding the line guide apparatus itself along at least a portion of the travel path.

[0005] For this purpose, various guide devices are already known which are configured, for example, as guide troughs with longitudinally extending parallel side walls, in which the line guide device, in particular one or both runs of the energy chain, is held and guided between the side walls.

[0006] This type of guide device with a guide trough is robust, but relatively complex to install and expensive to manufacture. The opposing side walls of the guide trough must be aligned parallel to each other along the longitudinal direction and fixed to a support structure, such as a C-shaped profile, arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction. The side walls usually consist of a plurality of L-shaped steel plates arranged adjacent to each other at their ends, which are generally fixed to the support structure by angle brackets and bolt connections, as described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,499,297 or U.S. Pat. No. 5,599,297. The side walls of the guide trough can support internal slide rails against which one and / or the other run slides, and the slide rails are fixed to the side walls by bolt connections. The side walls of the guide trough resist lateral outward displacement of the line guide device, i.e., the transverse displacement, by guiding the outer main surfaces of the transverse link plates. The outer main surfaces of the transverse link plates can abut against or slide laterally over the side walls of the guide trough during chain movement. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] German Patent No. 19512086 [Patent Document 2] German Utility Model No. 29511726 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is, inter alia, to propose a simplified line guide system that is more cost-effective to manufacture and easier to install.

[0009] This object is achieved by a line guide system according to claim 1.

[0010] In a line guide system according to the preamble of claim 1, it is proposed according to the invention that the guide device comprises at least one guide strand which can be arranged to predefine the desired course of a portion of the travel path, and that the line guide device comprises an outer profile area formed with a profile shape for stabilizing the guiding action in the transverse direction against or in contact with the guide strand by convex and / or concave interengagement of the guide strand and the cross section of the profile shape.

[0011] The interaction of the profiled areas with the separate guide strands makes it possible to counteract lateral deviation of the movable line guide device from the predefined course of the portion of the travel path in the transverse direction. Therefore, in particular, separate side walls are not required, i.e., the associated costs and installation effort are unnecessary. The profiled areas can in particular be arranged externally on the line guide device so as to be located opposite and / or adjacent to the guide strands.

[0012] The configuration of the profile region on the line guide device can be selected here in particular so that, in the installed or operating state of the system, the profile region can be placed on the guide strand, in particular on the upper surface of the guide strand, so as to achieve a transverse stabilizing interaction of the profile region with the guide strand.

[0013] For this purpose, a profiled area is preferably provided on the face of the or each opposing run facing the deflection axis and / or on the face of the or each opposing run facing away from the deflection axis for interaction with at least one guide strand. Interaction with the at least one guide strand can therefore occur inherently during movement as a result of its own weight. The guide strand can act here as a kind of bearing by supporting and simultaneously by guiding or directional movement. However, the support function is neither necessary nor important for transverse stabilization.

[0014] Each of the profile regions has a profile shape that allows a transverse stabilizing engagement of the particular profile region with the guide strands and keeps the line guide device on a desired course in the transverse direction. The convex and / or concave inter-engagement of the cross-sections of the guide strands and the profile shape is understood here to mean both the convex engagement of the guide strands into an at least partially concave profile shape and, conversely, the engagement of a partially convex profile shape into a guide strand that is partially concave in cross-section, and also the combination of the concave-convex engagement of the correspondingly concave and convex cross-sections of both parts.

[0015] During movement, the line guide device or at least a portion of the longitudinal portion of at least one of the runs is engaged with a guide strand, which is positioned or fixed along the desired path of movement. This results in a predetermined or desired alignment of the line guide device relative to the guide strand. The interaction of the profiled region and the guide strand resists lateral deviation of the line guide device from the desired course in the transverse direction. Therefore, lateral support of the line guide device by the side walls of the guide trough is not required, and a conventional guide trough does not need to be provided. As a result, manufacturing and installation costs can be reduced.

[0016] The central idea of ​​the invention is to propose a guide strand of particularly simple structural design which interacts with a corresponding profile area on the line guide device so as to keep the guide strand on track.

[0017] The guide strands may in particular be in the form of ropes, rods, profile bars or similar structural shapes, having a relatively small cross section compared to the line guide device but a similar longitudinal extent, in particular over at least half of the total length of the line guide device. The guide strands may be positioned or fixed to predefine the desired course of the portion of the travel path.

[0018] The profile region of the line guide device is preferably configured in cross section to be complementary, in particular concave, to the cross section of the corresponding interacting guide strand.

[0019] The profiled region of the line guide device is especially equipped with two lateral retaining surfaces - similar to lateral guide surfaces - which limit the freedom of movement of the particular profiled region relative to the guide strand in the transverse direction. The profiled region does not have to be in constant contact with the guide strand during movement in order to achieve transverse stabilization.

[0020] Each of the profiled areas can be configured to partially engage around the periphery of a guide strand or grip a portion of its periphery, as can be seen in cross section. In combination with two parallel guide strands, profiled areas with only one retaining surface that rests laterally or transversely are also possible - similar to a rail track.

[0021] At least some of the profiled regions may each have at least one axially and radially open recess extending in the longitudinal direction, preferably with a partly circular cross section, with a cylindrical inner wall in the general geometric sense, which is understood to generally mean a wall extending parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0022] The profiled region preferably has a generally or strictly constant cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The guide strands also preferably have a generally constant cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction along their available longitudinal extent.

[0023] The at least one guide strand can be arranged in particular in a linear manner, and in the installed operating state, can be arranged in a linear manner to predefine the linear course of a portion of the movement path or to counter deviations from the linear extension of the line guide device. Curved courses of the movement path of the line guide device are likewise within the scope of the invention.

[0024] In one embodiment, the profiled region may be provided as a component of a separate add-on module that can be secured to the line guide device. In this manner, an existing line guide device can be retrofitted or converted for use as part of the line guide system described herein. The add-on module can thus provide modularity to the line guide system. The add-on module can be manufactured from plastic in one or more parts.

[0025] In one embodiment, the guide device has a longitudinal section with at least one supporting guide strand that can be arranged to support at least a part of the load of the line guide arrangement, and in particular to support the upper or moving run. The upper run can be guided on one or more supporting guide strands at a vertical distance, i.e., a height distance from the bearing surface of the lower run, with a profiled region of the upper run preferably supported on the one or more guide strands in a load-transmitting manner. The load can preferably be transmitted by the profiled region to the at least one guide strand, which acts, for example, in the manner of a support rail.

[0026] The at least one guide strand is preferably configured to be particularly integral and continuous along a portion of the travel path.

[0027] The at least one guide strand may be configured as a profiled bar or elongated profiled strand that can be fixed or is fixed to a structure with a given installation or support surface along the travel path. In principle, any bar-, rod- or tube-shaped, substantially flexurally rigid guide strand can be used, the cross-sectional shape of which allows the desired interaction with the profiled area.

[0028] However, in a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one guide strand is configured as a tensile flexible structure that can be clamped along the path of travel, in particular as a rope, wire, cord, etc. In embodiments with a tensile rope-like guide strand, assembly is particularly simple and quick, since a linear course is inherently achieved by clamping between two end points.

[0029] The outer profile of the cross section of the guide strand is preferably convex in a geometric sense, preferably smoothly convex (without corners or edges), so as to avoid abrasive or interfering edges.

[0030] In one embodiment, the guide device comprises two guide strands which can be or are arranged parallel to one another, preferably arranged so as to be spaced apart from one another in the transverse direction, which is advantageous for a good guiding action and a high mechanical stability of the line guide system, especially in the case of load-bearing guide strands.

[0031] The guide device preferably comprises at least one fastening device for the guide strand. In operation, each of the at least one guide strand can be fastened at least at its end or in its end region by a fastening device, for example on a given installation surface. In particular, each of the at least one guide strand may be fastened only at its end by a fastening device, and preferably may be stretched between the fastening devices, in particular if it is configured as a rope, wire or cord. In particular, a guide strand configured in one piece can save time and / or costs during the final installation.

[0032] The guide strand may also be multi-piece, in particular consisting of successive separate strand portions arranged adjacent to one another.

[0033] The line guide device may comprise a number of chain links or segments, each of which is interconnected in an articulated manner. If the guide strand consists of a number of separate longitudinal sections, the longitudinal extent of each of the longitudinal sections of the guide strand should preferably be a multiple of the longitudinal extent of the chain links or segments of the line guide device. This allows for a relatively quick installation of the guide strand using only a small number of parts, in particular identical parts.

[0034] The at least one guide strand may be integral or integral with the installation or support surface, for example protruding therefrom or being embedded therein as a track.

[0035] In one embodiment, the guide device may form two guide planes, each for one of the runs in each guide plane. Each of the guide planes in this case may have at least one guide strand, preferably at least two guide strands. The guide planes may be spaced apart from each other in a height direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and perpendicular to the transverse direction, i.e., vertically. In particular, in this case, the guide plane for the upper run, the guide device may act together with the two guide strands as a rail track with simultaneous load-bearing and directional guide functions.

[0036] The line guide device is preferably an energy chain configured with a link chain structure, which in this case may comprise two opposing strands of transverse link plates and crossbars connecting them, the transverse link plates of one strand being interconnected in pairs by articulation.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the line guide system comprises add-on modules for retrofitting the energy chain with profiled areas. Each add-on module may have at least one profiled area and may be configured for fastening to the crossbars and / or transverse link plates. The add-on modules may in particular be lockable with the crossbars and / or transverse link plates. This has the advantageous effect that existing energy chains can be retrofitted to systems with one or more guide strands.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, at least some of the cross bars and / or at least some of the transverse link plates may each have at least one integral profile area for interaction with a guide strand.

[0039] The add-on modules may in particular be arranged externally on a remote face of the energy chain either facing away from the opposing run or facing away from the deflection axis of the deflection curve.

[0040] In one embodiment, they are provided on the outward facing surface of the energy chain, i.e. the surface facing away from the opposing run or the deflection axis of the deflection curve.

[0041] A pair of external, transversely disposed support skids, in particular support skids integral with the add-on module, may also be provided, which are spaced apart in the transverse direction from each other and from the profiled area. The support skids can in particular counteract tilting in the longitudinal direction. This embodiment can be advantageous in particular when the line guide system for a particular part or one of the runs comprises only one guide strand, for example a centrally located guide strand.

[0042] In one embodiment, the guide device comprises a first pair of parallel guide strands in the form of profile bars for guiding a stationary run, which may in particular be a lower run, and a second pair of parallel guide strands in the form of profile bars for guiding and supporting a movable run, which may in particular be an upper run. In this case, each run may have a first profile region arranged in a cross-sectionally symmetrical pair, each facing away from the opposite run, and a second profile region arranged in a cross-sectionally symmetrical pair, each facing the opposite run. The first profile regions are capable of interacting with the profile bars of the first pair, and the second profile regions are capable of interacting with the profile bars of the second pair.

[0043] In one embodiment, the add-on module may have both a profiled region facing the opposing run or deflection axis and a profiled region facing away from the opposing run or deflection axis, in particular each of the profiled regions facing the opposing run or deflection axis being configured to guide the upper run on at least one guide strand, preferably on a profiled bar.

[0044] The guide device may preferably have at least one guide strand configured as a profiled strand having a profiled cross-section capable of interacting with the profiled region of the line guide apparatus by alternating convex and concave interlocking.

[0045] According to an independent aspect of the invention, the guide strands may be configured as elongated profile parts, in particular plastic profiles, which are formed with a suitable cross section for transverse stabilizing interaction by the design of energy chains known per se according to the principle according to EP 0 879 367. The plastic profiles in this case replace parts of the lower run and allow a more cost-effective construction with up to 50% shorter energy chains (so-called middle feed) instead of constructions with so-called end feed, which require an extra length of the lower run for guiding purposes.

[0046] In particular, but not exclusively, in combination with the last-mentioned aspect of the invention, the line guide device may preferably have a plurality of longitudinally extending comb-like projections on the face of each run facing the opposite run, such that the comb-like projections of the two runs can intermesh upon movement of one upper run over the other lower run in order to hold the two runs together against transverse displacement relative to each other or laterally. This embodiment allows for additional transverse stabilization across the longitudinal direction.

[0047] In one embodiment, the first, i.e., fixed, connection point may be located at a longitudinal end of the path of travel (so-called end feed), and in this case, the upper, i.e., movable run, can be moved, particularly in a sliding manner, from one longitudinal end of the path of travel supported by the lower, i.e., stationary run, to the other longitudinal end of the path of travel (so-called sliding configuration). In this case, the combination with the comb-like projections described above is advantageous, since the upper run can be held on the lower run against transverse displacement. In such an embodiment, the lower run only needs to be guided laterally by the guide strand.

[0048] In a further embodiment, the first connection point, i.e., the fixed connection point, can be located in the central region between the two longitudinal ends of the path of travel (so-called middle feed). The upper run, i.e., the movable run, moves, for example, only along a first portion, in particular a first half portion, of the path of travel supported on the lower run, i.e., the stationary run, and is possibly held on the lower run by a comb-like projection against transverse displacement. In this embodiment, a guide strand can be provided to guide the upper run along a further portion, i.e., a second further half portion, of the path of travel. The guide strand for this upper run is located between the fixed connection point and the second longitudinal end of the path of travel. In this case, the guide strand is preferably located at a vertical distance from the bearing surface of the lower run.

[0049] As a further development of the above embodiment, it can be provided that at least one further guide strand is provided for guiding or transversely stabilizing the lower run. In an advantageous embodiment, this lower guide strand for guiding the lower run can simultaneously fix the upper guide strand for the first-mentioned upper run against transverse displacement, in particular by means of a form-fitting connection in cross section.

[0050] In one embodiment, the lower run can be guided by the interaction of assigned guide strands, in particular tension ropes having profiled areas externally positioned on the remote face of the energy chain, both of which face away from the opposing run.

[0051] Alternatively or additionally, the upper run may be guided by the interaction of a guide strand configured as a profile strand or of a plurality of profile strands with comb-like projections.

[0052] In one embodiment, the guide strand for the upper run, configured as a profile strand, can be held laterally on the rope-like guide strand for the lower run, so that in the installed operating state the upper run is guided by the interaction of the comb-like projections on the profile strand. The comb-like projections on the profile strand can be configured integrally or as a part of the profile strand and complementary in cross section to the corresponding comb-like projections of the energy chain. In this embodiment, the lower run is preferably guided by a tension rope.

[0053] The present invention further relates to an add-on module for an energy chain, which is configured to fit onto a crossbar and / or a transverse link plate of a chain link and comprises at least one profiled area. The add-on module is configured to interact with at least one transverse stabilizing guide strand. Each profiled area is configured to be complementary to the externally arranged rope-like or bar-like guide strand and in particular comprises at least one recess with a partially cylindrical inner wall. For easy fixing without tools, the add-on module can in particular be configured to be lockable relative to the crossbar and / or transverse link plate.

[0054] The profiled areas of the add-on modules are accessible from the outside and can in particular both be arranged on the inner diameter, i.e. on the side facing the deflection axis or counter-run, or vice versa in some embodiments both on the outer diameter, i.e. on the side of the energy chain facing away from the deflection axis or counter-run. The recess in this case extends in the longitudinal direction of the energy chain. The add-on modules can in particular act as a supporting skid on the upper run, which is slidably guided on one or more guide strands.

[0055] In one embodiment, the add-on module comprises two parallel support skids spaced apart transversely near the profile area. The support skids can be particularly advantageous when the line guide system comprises only one guide strand. In that case, the support skid supports the lower run horizontally or in a tilt-resistant manner. The add-on module is preferably made of plastic, especially in one piece, and may optionally contain a tribopolymer with improved tribological properties.

[0056] The present invention further relates to a chain link for an energy chain for a line guide system according to one of the preceding embodiments, comprising two transverse link plates, each having two narrow faces extending in the longitudinal direction and transversely facing each other, and at least one crossbar connecting the transverse link plates, the transverse link plates and the crossbar defining a receiving space for the guided supply line.

[0057] The chain links have at least one external profile area facing away from the receiving space for interacting with at least one rope-like or bar-like guide strand, each profile area being arranged on at least one of the crossbars and / or on at least one narrow face of a particular transverse link plate and having a profile shape, in cross section complementary to the rope-like or bar-like guide strand, in particular a concave, partially cylindrical profile shape.

[0058] The profiled area may be integrally molded to the outside of the crossbar, in particular molded onto it. Alternatively or additionally, the profiled area may be locked to the crossbar as a component of a separate add-on module.

[0059] The individual features of the guide strands and the profile region described above can be advantageously combined with one another and may also be regarded as essential to the invention independently of one another. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0060] [Figure 1A] 1 is a side view of a first exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention; [Figure 1B] 1 is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of a first exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention; [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a side view of a second exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention. [Figure 2B] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a second exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention taken along line NN. [Figure 2C]2 is a cross-sectional view along line PP of a second exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention. [Figure 3A] FIG. 10 is a side view of a third exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention. [Figure 3B] 10 is a cross-sectional view along line VV of a third exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention. [Figure 3C] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view along line WW of a third exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present invention. [Figure 4A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an add-on module. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a chain link with the add-on module of FIG. 4A attached thereto. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0061] Further details, features and advantages of the present invention can be gleaned from the following more detailed description of preferred exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] 1A, 2A, and 3A show a line guide device 10 for guiding a supply line (not shown) from a first connection point 13 on a fixed base to a second connection point 15 on a machine to be supplied. The movable second connection point 15 moves in a longitudinal direction L along a path of movement W (shown in FIG. 2D) in a vertical plane, here. In the illustrated operating state, the line guide device 10 comprises a lower run 12 and an upper run 14. The lower run 12 is connected at its end to the fixed connection point 13 and is laid on a mounting surface 31. The upper run 14 is connected to the movable connection point 15 and slides along the path of movement W partially above the lower run 12. Between the two runs 12, 14, a deflection curve 16 is formed, which is curved about a deflection axis U and also moves along the path of movement W. The deflection axis U extends perpendicular to the plane of FIGS. 1A, 2A, and 3A, which is horizontal here.

[0063] The line guide device 10 moves in a movement plane in which the longitudinal direction L and the height direction H lie, together with the transverse direction Q extending parallel to the deflection axis U. In the installed or operating state, the line guide device 10 has two faces A, B. The radially inner face A faces towards the deflection axis U in the region of the deflection curve 16 and faces towards the opposing runs 12, 14 in both regions of the runs 12, 14. The radially outer face B faces away from the deflection axis U in the region of the deflection curve 16 and faces away from the opposing runs 12, 14 in both regions of the runs 12, 14. Face B of the lower run 12 is supported on a bearing or installation surface 31.

[0064] The line guide device 10 is preferably an energy chain consisting of chain links 41, 42, 43, 44 connected to one another in an articulated or pivotal manner. The chain link 44 is shown in perspective in Figure 4B and in cross section in Figures 1B, 2B and 3B. The chain links 41, 42, 43, 44 comprise two parallel transverse link plates 410, each of which is spaced apart from one another and here interconnected in a transverse direction Q by two crossbars 421, 422, 423, 424a, 424b. The transverse link plates 410 of successive chain links 41 are pivotable relative to one another about pivot axes which extend in a transverse direction Q parallel to the deflection axis U or which define the deflection axis U.

[0065] The line guide system 1 in all exemplary embodiments comprises at least one guide device 20 with a guide strand 22, which guides the line guide device 10 along a movement path W. The line guide device 10 comprises profiled regions 18 formed to correspond to or complement the guide strands 22, which engage with the guide strands 22 during movement of the line guide device 10 and are movable in the longitudinal direction L while engaged with the guide strands 22. Due to this interaction, the line guide device 10 remains held laterally in a given movement plane in which the movable connection point 15 moves, i.e., perpendicular to the deflection axis U. For this purpose, the profiled regions 18 constitute lateral holding surfaces 111, 211, 311 of suitable geometry formed according to the selected guide strands 22. The individual profiled regions 18 are arranged distributed along the length of the line guide device 10 and have a longitudinal extent shorter than that of the individual chain links 41, 42, 43, 44.

[0066] The profile shape of the profiled region 18 corresponds in cross section to the cross-sectional shape of the guide strand 22 and is selected so that when the profiled region 18 of the chain link 41 presses against or rests against the guide strand 22, the profiled region 18 conforms to the guide strand 22 and the chain link 41 tilts towards the intended desired orientation of the guide strand 22. In this way, for example, deviations from the desired linear extension are prevented and the line guide device 10 is prevented from deviating laterally from the intended plane of movement.

[0067] 1A and 1B, the guide strand 22 is configured as a high-tensile-strength rope 221, for example as a steel or plastic rope, and has an approximately circular cross section. The rope 221 is tensioned between two fastening devices 17, i.e. it extends in a desired plane of movement corresponding to the desired path of movement W of the machine to be supplied. Fixing and adjustment can therefore be carried out particularly easily by means of the two end fastening devices 17 between which the rope 221 is tensioned. The tension of the rope 221 between the fastening devices 17 is selected to absorb normal transverse forces that may occur in the energy chain 10.

[0068] Each chain link 41, shown in more detail in FIG. 4B, is equipped with an add-on module 404 made of plastic, which is locked on face B relative to the crossbar 421, for example, by a plug-in chip connection. Suitable add-on modules 404 are individually shown in detail in FIG. 4A and can be manufactured, for example, as a one-piece injection-molded part. Each profiled area 18 is formed as a recess 19, groove, trough, receptacle, etc., with a concave cross-section. The recess 19 is located in the center of the add-on module 404 and, consequently, the crossbar 421 in the transverse direction Q, and here has a semi-cylindrical inner wall with a uniform cross-section in the longitudinal direction L, for example in the form of a semi-disc that matches the cross-section of the rope 221. The add-on module 404 further comprises two parallel support skids 405, one on each side of the recess 19, which are spaced apart from each other and from the profiled area 18 in the transverse direction Q. The support skids 405 are optional depending on the shape of the profiled region 18 and counteract any tilt in the rope 221 in the longitudinal direction L.

[0069] 2A-2D is configured for acting on two guide planes 201, 202. In the lower guide plane 201, the guiding action corresponds to the rope 221 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, which is fastened in a straight line between the two fastening devices 17. The rope 221 guides and holds the lower run 12. The upper guide plane 202 is formed by a plurality of parallel profiled strands 222 which are integral with the support surface 23. The support surface 23 is spaced apart in the height direction H, i.e. vertically, for example, from the machine's exterior mounting surface 31. The profiled strands 222 further guide the upper run 14 in the straight extension of the lower run 12 and, for this purpose, have a uniform cross section in the longitudinal direction L which is complementary to the comb-like projections 412 of the line guide device 10. The comb-like projections may here be formed in accordance with the teachings of EP 0 879 367, which is therefore incorporated herein for the sake of brevity. The profile strands 222 are integrally provided with the support surface 23 by one or more structurally identical channel-like plastic profiles 225, which are configured in accordance with the principles according to EP 0 879 367.

[0070] Starting from the deflection curve 16, the upper run 14 first moves over the lower run 12, with the comb-like projections 412 on the inner surface A of the upper run 14 and the comb-like projections 412 on the inner surface A of the lower run 12 interlocking with each other. The upper run 14 moves over the fixed connection point 13 on the support surface 23, which acts as a support extension surface 212 for the upper run 14, where it is guided by the profiled strand 222 and supported by the support surface 23. The guide strand 22 of the guide device 20, which includes the support surface 23 with the profiled strand 222, can be produced cost-effectively as a channel-shaped hollow plastic profile 225, for example by extrusion. On the bottom side of the plastic profile 225 facing the installation surface 31, a receptacle 224 is formed for a form-fitting connection with the rope 221. When the rope 221 is fitted by the receptacle 224, the hollow plastic profile 225 is fixed against displacement in the transverse direction Q (see FIG. 2C).

[0071] 2A-2D, the guide device 20 comprises both a rope 221 as a first guide strand for the lower run 12 and a second profiled guide strand for the upper run 14, with a profiled strand 222 protruding from the support surface 23. The support surface 23 here additionally has a support function for the upper run 14.

[0072] 3A-3C also includes two guide planes 201, 202, each with two parallel guide strands 32. In the example shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, the guide strands 32 are not configured as flexible ropes, but as rigid profile bars 323, each with a uniformly rounded cross section in the longitudinal direction L. The profile bars 323 may be configured, for example, as metal bars with a circular profile. In each of the upper and lower guide planes 201, 202, there is a pair of parallel profile bars 323, which may optionally consist of multiple longitudinal portions 24.

[0073] In this example, at least every n-th chain link 43 of the energy chain is equipped with a pair of first profile regions 318a and a pair of second profile regions 318b, which are provided in an add-on module 304. Unlike in FIG. 4B, the add-on modules 304 in this example are fixed on the narrow faces 411 of the transverse link plates 410, for example by means of a locking connection, on the crossbars 423. In FIGS. 3A-3C, each add-on module 304 comprises two pairs of profile regions 318a, 318b. The two first profile regions 318a are arranged on the radially outer surface B of the energy chain, and the second profile region 318b is arranged on the radially inner surface A of the energy chain, facing away from the profile regions. The spacing of the lower profile bars 323 from each other in the transverse direction Q is equal to the corresponding spacing of the first profile regions 318a, and the spacing of the upper profile bars 323 from each other in the transverse direction Q is equal to the corresponding spacing of the second profile regions 318b.

[0074] 1-2, each profiled area 318a, 318b has a recess 19 with a semi-cylindrical inner wall coaxial with the longitudinal direction L. All profiled areas 318a, 318b in FIGS. 3A-3C have the same cross section so that the same profiled bar 323 can be used. When the energy chain 10 moves, the runs 12, 14 slide against the corresponding profiled areas 318a, 318b on the profiled bar 323, i.e., engage with the guide bar 223, so that displacement of the runs 12, 14 in the transverse direction Q is prevented, possibly assisted by their own weight.

[0075] In addition to the guiding function, the profile bar 323 may also have a load-bearing, i.e., support, function. In Figures 3A-3C, the upper run 14 is supported by the profile bar 323 so as to be slidingly movable in the guide plane 202. In this case, the upper run 14 is slidingly supported by its second profile region 318b on the profile bar 323 in the second guide plane 202 and can be guided in a manner as if suspended. The construction and installation of the guide strand 32 consisting of the profile bar 323 is simple here, as in Figures 1-2, and allows for rapid alignment, especially for small quantities of individual parts.

[0076] 1-2 in a perspective view from the side facing away from the profiled area 18. The add-on module 404 comprises a transverse stabilizing profiled area 18 in the form of a recess 19 having a semi-cylindrical profiled surface forming a semicircle in cross section. In the installed state on the chain link, the cylindrical axis of the recess 19 lies parallel to the longitudinal direction L of the energy chain. Furthermore, the add-on module 404 comprises two support skids 405 extending parallel to the recess 19. The add-on module 404 comprises a locking receptacle and a locking projection 407 for locking onto a narrow surface 409 of the crossbar 424b.

[0077] FIG. 4B shows a chain link 44 of the energy chain 10 according to the previous figures. The chain link 44 comprises two parallel transverse link plates 410 interconnected in the transverse direction Q by at least one, here two, crossbars 424a, 424b. The transverse link plates 410 and the crossbars 424a, 424b define a receiving space 500 for guiding a supply line. In FIG. 4B, each of the main faces 413 of the transverse link plates 410 has a joint pin 415a, known per se, and joint receptacles 415b, known per se, for articulating with two further chain links 44. Other types of articulating joints are also possible. Each transverse link plate 410 has two narrow faces 411, each extending in the longitudinal direction L, one facing face A of the line guide device 10 and the other facing face B of the line guide device 10. The crossbars 424a, 424b likewise have two narrow faces 409 and two main faces 408, each extending along the transverse direction Q, one facing towards the receiving space 500 and the other facing away from the receiving space 500. On its main face facing away from the receiving space 500, one of the crossbars 424a is provided with a comb-like projection 412, which is injection-molded onto the crossbar 424a or may optionally be attached to a separate add-on part. The other, opposing crossbar 424b of the chain link 44 has, on its main face facing away from the receiving space 500, an add-on module 404, which is locked to the narrow faces 409 of the crossbars 424a, 424b, as shown in FIG. 4B . The profiled area 18, the support skid 405 and the comb-like projection 412 are arranged externally on the chain link 44 with respect to the receiving space 500 and extend in the longitudinal direction L of the chain link 44. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 1 Line Guide System 10 Line guide device (energy chain) 12 Lower Run 13 (First) Connection Point 14 Upper Run 15 (Second) Connection Point 16 Deflection Curve 17 Fixation Devices 18, 318a, 318b profile areas 19 Recess 20, 30 Guide device 22, 32 guide strands 23 Support surface 24 Long section of guide strand 31 Installation surface 41, 42, 43, 44 Chain links 111, 211, 311 Retaining surface 201, 202 Guide plane 221 Rope 222 Molded Profile Strand 224 Receptacle 225 Plastic Profile 304, 404 add-on modules 323 Profile Bar 405 Support Skid 407 Locking protrusion 408 Main surface of crossbar 409 Narrow side of crossbar 410 Horizontal link plate 411 Narrow surface of horizontal link plate 412 Pectinate process 413 Main surface of horizontal link plate 415a, 415b Joint pin, joint receptacle 421, 422, 423, 424a, 424b Crossbar 500 Receptive Space A (Facing the deflection axis) surface B (opposite to deflection axis) surface L Longitudinal direction Q transverse direction H Height direction U deflection axis W Movement Route

Claims

1. A line guide system (1), comprising: a line guide device (10) for dynamically guiding a supply line along a path of travel (W) from a first connection point (13) to a second connection point (15), at least one of which is movable relative to the other; a separate guide device (20) for guiding said line guide apparatus (10) along at least a portion of said path of travel (W); Equipped with The line guide device (10) has a longitudinal direction (L) and is configured in an articulated manner so that the line guide device (10) can be turned or deflected for movement, and comprises two opposing runs (12, 14) and a deflection curve (16) connecting the runs (12, 14) that is curved about a deflection axis (U) extending in a transverse direction (Q) transverse to the longitudinal direction (L); the guide device (20) comprises at least one guide strand (22) positionable to predefine a desired course of the portion of the path of travel (W); The line guide device (10) comprises an external profile region (18), which is arranged to be positioned in contact with the guide strand (22) and is formed by a profile shape for stabilizing the guiding action in the transverse direction by contact with the guide strand (22) through concave-convex interaction of the guide strand (22) and the profile shape, thereby resisting lateral displacement of the movable line guide device (10) in the transverse direction (Q), and the profile region is provided on a surface of the line guide device (10) facing away from each of the opposing runs when the line guide device (10) moves.

2. 2. The line guide system (1) of claim 1, wherein the profile region (18) of the line guide device (10) is formed so as to be complementary in cross section to the cross section of the interacting guide strand (22).

3. 3. A line guide system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least some of the profiled regions (18) each have at least one recess (19) having a cylindrical inner wall and extending in the longitudinal direction (L).

4. the at least one guide strand (22) extends linearly to define a linear course of the portion and is positionable to resist deviations from a linear extension of the line guide device (10); and / or 4. The line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the profiled area (18) is provided on an add-on module that is fixed to the line guide device (10).

5. 5. A line guide system (1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the guide device (20) comprises a longitudinal portion having at least one supporting guide strand arranged to support at least a portion of the load of the line guide apparatus (10).

6. 6. A line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one guide strand (22) is configured continuously along the portion of the path of travel (W).

7. 7. The line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the guide device (20) comprises at least one fastening device (17) for the guide strand (22), and in an operating state, each of the at least one guide strand (22) is fastened at least at its end or only at its end by a fastening device (17) and is stretched between two fastening devices (17) as a rope, wire or cord.

8. The line guide device (10) comprises a plurality of chain links (41, 42, 43, 44) or segments each articulated relative to one another; 8. A line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one guide strand (22) can be constructed from a number of separate longitudinal portions (24), the longitudinal extent of each of the longitudinal portions (24) of the guide strand (22) being a multiple of the longitudinal extent of a chain link (41, 42, 43, 44) or segment of the line guide device (10).

9. 9. A line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the guide device (20) comprises two guide planes (201; 202) with at least one guide strand (22) in each guide plane (201, 202).

10. The line guide device (10) is an energy chain having two mutually opposing strands, each of which is a crossbar (421; 422; 423; 424a, 424b) connecting the crossbars (410) in the transverse direction (Q), and the crossbars (421; 422; 423; 424a, 424b) connecting the crossbars (410) in one strand are connected to each other in pairs in an articulated manner; the line guide system (1) comprises add-on modules (404) for retrofitting the profiled areas (18; 318) to the energy chain, each of the add-on modules (304; 404) having at least one profiled area (18; 318) and configured for fastening to a crossbar (421; 422; 423; 424a, 424b) and / or a transverse link plate (410), or 10. A line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least some of the crossbars (421; 422; 423; 424a, 424b) and / or at least some of the transverse link plates (410) each have at least one integrated profile area (18) for interaction with the guide strands (22).

11. 11. The line guide system (1) according to claim 10, wherein the energy chain, when moving, forms two opposing runs (12, 14) and a deflection curve (16) connecting the runs (12, 14), and the add-on modules (304; 404) are arranged externally on an outward face (B) of the energy chain, facing away from the opposing runs or the deflection axis (U) of the deflection curve (16) when moving, and a pair of support skids (405) are provided externally and laterally on the outward face (B), the support skids being integral with the add-on modules (404), and the support skids being spaced apart from each other and from the profiled area (18) in the transverse direction (Q).

12. The guide device (20) comprises a first pair of parallel guide strands in the form of profile bars (223) for guiding the stationary runs (12) and a second pair of parallel guide strands in the form of profile bars (223) for guiding and supporting the movable runs (14), each run (12, 14) comprising a pair of cross-sectionally symmetrically arranged first profile regions (318a) both facing away from the opposing run (12, 14) when moved, and a pair of cross-sectionally symmetrically arranged second profile regions (318b) both facing towards the opposing run (12, 14) when moved, 12. The line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first profile region (318a) interacts with the first pair of profile bars (223) and the second profile region (318b) interacts with the second pair of profile bars (223).

13. 13. The line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the add-on module (304) has both a profile region (318b) that faces the opposing run or the deflection axis (U) when moved and a profile region (318a) that faces away from the opposing run or the deflection axis when moved.

14. 14. The line guide system (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the guide device (20) comprises at least one guide strand (22) configured as a profile strand (222).

15. 11. The line guide system (1) of claim 10, wherein the line guide device (10) comprises a plurality of comb-like projections (412) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) on a face (A) of each run facing the opposing run during movement, allowing the comb-like projections (412) of the two runs (12, 14) to interlock with each other during movement of one upper run (14) over the other lower run (12) in order to maintain the two runs (12, 14) together against transverse displacement relative to each other or laterally together.

16. the run which, when moving, becomes the lower run (12) is guided by the interaction of the assigned guide strand (22) of the tensioned rope (221) with a profiled area (18) arranged externally on the outward face (B) of the energy chain, each of which faces away from the opposing run; and / or 16. The line guide system (1) of claim 15, wherein the run that becomes the upper run (14) when moved is guided by interaction of the guide strand (22) configured as a profile strand (222) with the comb-like protrusions (412).

17. 17. The line guide system (1) according to claim 16, wherein the guide strand (22) for the upper run configured as the profile strand (222) is held laterally on the rope-like guide strand (22) for the lower run.

18. An add-on module (304; 404) for retrofitting to an existing energy chain, said energy chain being configured in an articulated manner for dynamic guiding of supply lines to mobile consumers, said energy chain comprising two opposing runs (12, 14) and a deflection curve (16) connecting said runs (12, 14) when moving, the add-on module (304; 404) comprises at least one externally arranged profiled area (18; 318) and is configured to fit onto a crossbar (423; 424a, 424b) and / or a transverse link plate (410) of a chain link of the energy chain, in such a way that the at least one profiled area (18; 318) of the add-on module is arranged so as to be externally accessible on a face of the energy chain facing away from the opposing run during movement of the energy chain, The add-on module (304; 404) is configured to interact with at least one transverse stabilizing guide strand (22; 223), and the add-on module (404) comprises two parallel support skids (405) spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction (Q) in the vicinity of the profile region (18; 318), and the particular profile region (18; 318) comprises at least one recess (304; 404) formed to be complementary to the rope-shaped or bar-shaped guide strand (22; 223) and having a partially cylindrical inner wall.

19. 18. A chain link (44) of an energy chain for a line guidance system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the energy chain is articulated to be deflectable or deflectable during movement to form two opposing runs (12, 14) and a deflection curve (16) connecting the runs (12, 14) and curved about a deflection axis (U), for dynamic guiding of a supply line to a mobile consumer, the chain links each having two narrow faces (411) extending in the longitudinal direction (L). the chain link comprises two lateral link plates (410) facing each other in a transverse direction (Q) and at least one crossbar (424a, 424b) connecting the lateral link plates (410), the lateral link plates (410) and the crossbar (424a, 424b) defining a receiving space (500) for a guided supply line, and each of the lateral link plates (410) is configured to be connected to the lateral link plates of adjacent chain links so as to be pivotable relative to each other about a pivot axis extending in the transverse direction (Q); The chain link (44) has at least one external profile area (18) facing away from the receiving space (500) for interacting with at least one rope-like or bar-like guide strand (22), a particular profile area (18) being arranged on at least one of the crossbars (424a, 424b) and / or on at least one of the narrow faces (411) of a particular transverse link plate (410), and with respect to the pivot axis, each profile area is arranged on a radially outer surface (B) of the chain link and has a profile shape complementary in cross section to the rope-like or bar-like guide strand (22).

20. 20. The chain link (44) of claim 19, wherein the profiled area (18) is integrally formed with the outer surface of the crossbar and configured on the crossbar or fastened to the crossbar as a component of a separate add-on module (304; 404).

21. 3. The line guide system (1) according to claim 2, wherein the profiled area (18) of the line guide device (10) is concave with two lateral support surfaces (111; 211; 311).

22. 7. The line guide system (1) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one guide strand (22) is configured as a rope, wire or cord, or as a continuous profile bar or a continuous profile strand.

23. 20. The chain link (44) of claim 19, wherein each said profiled region has a concave, partially cylindrical profile shape.

Images