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

Abstract

The present invention relates to a line guide device (10) for guiding a plurality of lines, such as cables, hoses, etc., particularly for suspension applications, such as in a drilling rig (1). The line guide device (10) preferably has a high tensile strength, flexible conveying strand (11) extending over the length of the line guide device. Guide bodies (14) are arranged longitudinally of the conveying strand (11), and adjacent guide bodies (14) are spatially deflectable relative to one another. At least some of the guide bodies each have a central part (15A) with a fastening device (18) for fastening to the conveying strand (11) and an outer part (15B) with at least one circumferential element (17) that bounds a receiving area (L) for the line. According to a first aspect of the invention, at least three radial bars (22A-22D; 42A-42C; 52A-52D) are provided on the central part (15A) and hold the outer part (15B). According to a second aspect of the invention, at least one spacer body 70 is provided for the conveying strand 11 between every two guide bodies 14, the spacer body defining the spacing between the central parts 15A of the guide bodies 14. The spacer body 70 may in particular have a reduced outer diameter relative to the guide bodies 14 and / or may be configured so that the outer parts 15B of the two guide bodies 14 can abut against each other in a fully deflected relative position.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a device for dynamically guiding a plurality of supply lines, such as cables, hoses, etc. (hereinafter referred to as line guide device), in particular for particularly high pulling forces, for example in suspension applications, where the line guide device carries a long, freely hanging section, such as in a drilling rig, for example, when the line guide device is constituted by two hanging sections with a loop between them.

[0002] The invention relates in particular to a line guide device for guiding a plurality of lines, comprising a flexible conveying strand of high tensile strength, in particular a cable or chain, extending over the length of the line guide device, and a number of guide bodies arranged on the conveying strand in its longitudinal direction, wherein adjacent guide bodies are spatially deflectable relative to one another, at least some of the guide bodies here all having a central part or element with a fastening device for fastening the guide body to the conveying strand, and an outer part with at least one circumferential element for holding one or more of the lines to be guided on the conveying strand, by outwardly delimiting a receiving area for the lines. [Background technology]

[0003] A line guide device of the above type with a conveying strand is already known from DE 10 200 04 14 56 A1. A corresponding line guide device is further proposed in DE 10 200 04 14 56 A1.

[0004] Due to the central conveying strand, this type of line guide device can absorb very high tensile forces, which do not have to be transmitted via individual guide bodies. In this way, applications with relatively long, for example clearly less than 10 m, free-hanging sections can be realized in particular. Therefore, line guide devices of this type can be used in particular in deep mining, for example on drilling rigs (offshore / onshore) or drilling equipment, and also for onshore power supplies, for example for ships.

[0005] However, it has been found, for example according to US Pat. No. 5,629,999 or US Pat. No. 5,629,999, that known embodiments of the construction only exhibit limited robustness with respect to radially inward forces, which occur, for example, when the line guide device is deflected by a deflecting roller or wound on or unwound using a drum, where the guide body is radially deformed by high load forces, for example resulting from long, freely hanging sections, which can result in undesirable transverse loads or indeed permanent deformation of the line. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

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

[0007] In view of the above-mentioned prior art, a first object of the present invention is to further develop a line guide device of the above-mentioned type so that the guide body can withstand higher lateral forces, in particular radially inward lateral forces.

[0008] A second, independent objective is to enable a reduction in the predetermined bend or curvature radius for the deflection loop or deflection region of the above type of line guide device, particularly for those with a relatively large diameter.

[0009] First Aspect The first object is achieved in a first aspect by a first line guide device as defined in claim 1 or a guide body configured therefor as defined in claim 16.

[0010] This first objective can be achieved by providing the central part or element with at least three radial bars that hold or carry the outer parts and radially support them for guide bodies that are susceptible to transverse loads. Compared to the known solutions described above, in which only two radial bars are provided to maximize the receiving space, higher inward radial forces can be absorbed by this, even in the unsupported areas between the bars, without deformation of the outer parts, especially the surrounding elements. As a result of the greater number of radial bars, the radial forces are better isolated and diverted towards the central part.

[0011] A larger number of radial bars also allows for a structured internal division of the receiving space for the lines, so that the lines have a defined path and are less susceptible to wear due to their relative movements with respect to one another. A division in at least three separate chambers, i.e. a division with at least three bars, is also advantageous in this respect.

[0012] Preferably, at least four radial bars carrying or supporting the outer parts are thereby provided on the central part.

[0013] Depending on the desired free diameter of the receiving area and the expected forces, five or more radial bars may be provided on the central part to carry or support the outer parts and / or to achieve better internal division.

[0014] In this respect, each bar carries and supports an area of ​​the circumferential elements, in particular if only one full circumferential element is provided, or depending on the number of circumferential elements provided, optionally two further separate circumferential elements at the ends.

[0015] The radial bars act like spokes, along which the carrying strand is guided by the central part and which have their main extent radial to said central axis, i.e. also radial to the longitudinal direction of the carrying strand, and are preferably evenly distributed circumferentially around this central axis, i.e. with approximately the same angular dimension or degree of radii between every two circumferentially adjacent radial bars.

[0016] In a preferred maintenance-friendly configuration, at least one circumferential element is releasably or detachably connected to at least one of the radial bars. In this way, individual lines can be quickly replaced as needed. For a connection that can be reversibly connected without tools, it may preferably have an end region, in particular an end region with a locking element. Particularly preferably, a rear-engaging lock may be provided, for example, between the end region of the circumferential element and the corresponding bar. The locking rear-engagement may continue in the radial, axial and / or circumferential direction.

[0017] In one embodiment, it is provided that at least one radial bar comprises at least one projection projecting substantially in circumferential direction for connection with the radial portion and the at least one circumferential element, preferably the at least one projection may be provided with a locking element for locking engagement with the circumferential element and / or be realized integrally with the radial portion.

[0018] Advantageously, in order to achieve a better force introduction or a more robust impact-resistant structure, it may be provided that the circumferential elements are supported when attached by circumferentially releasable end regions of the corresponding radial bars.

[0019] The central part forms an axial passage opening for the conveying strand and is preferably of a multi-component embodiment. In this case, the central part can have at least two or only two components, in particular clamping shells, for fastening to the conveying strand. The multi-component structure is advantageous for a shape-locking and / or force-locking fastening to the conveying strand, which can be realized, for example, as a cable, in particular a plastic cable, or in practice, for example, as a link chain with steel links. Here, the individual components bound the passage opening and can both abut or act in a shape- or force-locking manner on the conveying strand.

[0020] The fastening device of the central part for fastening the guide body to the conveying strand allows in particular a fixed, i.e. axially stationary fastening of the relevant guide body in the longitudinal direction of the conveying strand.

[0021] The carrier strands bear a substantial portion of the load and relieve the line of tensile loads in the same manner as the inner core of the cable. The carrier strands are flexible enough not to adversely affect the deflection of the guide bodies relative to one another. The guide bodies hold the line at least radially fixed in the receiving area, i.e., relative to the central part and consequently to the carrier strands.

[0022] In the case of a multi-component structure of the central region or central part, it is advantageous if at least two radial bars are attached, in particular manufactured or formed integrally with at least one of the components, in particular one of the clamping shells, for the purpose of a catch-all and / or anti-fall design.

[0023] Preferably, each of the only two clamping shells has at least two, or in fact depending on the number of bars, radial bars integrally arranged between them, three or more, so that the bars are quicker and easier to install and at the same time complementary.

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

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

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

[0027] Each radial bar may be provided with a radially extending portion for releasable connection with one of the circumferential elements and at least one circumferentially extending projection, in particular realized integrally with said radially extending portion, in which respect the projection may have a locking element for locking engagement with the circumferential element.

[0028] The outer part with one or more circumferential elements is preferably circumferentially closed to form a continuous ring when the guide body is closed and mounted for operation. The ring may optionally be completed or passed by the radial end regions of the bars, but otherwise the outer part or circumferential elements may completely surround the central part. This allows for better introduction of radial forces by the multiple bars and reduces undesired deformation of the outer part.

[0029] In order to open the guide body and insert and remove lines, for example during manufacturing or maintenance, it is preferably provided that each circumferential element has a first end which is pivotally connected to the radial bar by an articulated joint.

[0030] Furthermore, each orbiting element may have a second end that can be locked by a snap-fit ​​connection to a further adjacent radial bar, so that it can be released from this bar for the purposes of pivoting open, as required.

[0031] Fastening the ends of each circumferential element on both sides, which are preferably more easily releasable on one side, greatly simplifies installation and handling, so that the circumferential element can be released as needed, which is particularly advantageous in terms of handling, especially with a relatively large number of circumferential elements or radial bars, for example when only one line has to be renewed.

[0032] For improved force introduction, each circumferential element has a circumferentially acting, approximately radially positioned support surface, which is supported on the radial bars. In the case of a segmented structure with a number of circumferential elements equal to the number of bars, the result can be that the radial lateral forces are distributed entirely over several or all of the radial bars.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first end of the circumferential element has a joint area and is defined to form two axial support surfaces adjacent to the joint area on either side, by which the first end can be supported circumferentially relative to the radial bar, the axial spacing between the two support surfaces ensuring better prevention of undesired axial movements or tilting.

[0034] Furthermore, the second end of the circumferential element also has one or optionally multiple support surfaces, whereby the second end can be circumferentially supported against the radial bar, optionally also by two axially spaced surfaces.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively, it may be provided that the second end of the circumferential element forms a locking receiver that can be locked with a locking protrusion of the further radial bar, the locking receiver and the locking protrusion extending in particular in a substantially tangential direction and / or being releasable by leveraging or twisting around the tangential direction. In this way, the locking connection cannot be released by radial forces, and therefore undesired release of the locking connection due to radial interference forces may be avoided.

[0036] More preferably, the radial bars may have fixing means in the tangential direction which interact with locking receivers on the circumferential elements.

[0037] To open up access to the receiving space for the lines, one end of each circumferential element is preferably pivotally attached to the radial bar. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a hinge-type joint or the like. Alternatively, the two ends of the circumferential element may be fastened to the bar in different ways, for example by means of a snap-fit ​​connection, which optionally further simplifies the introduction of forces.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the first end of the circumferential element has a joint area with a pivot pin pivotally connected to the radial bar and the pivot hook. In this regard, it is particularly preferred that, in order to prevent loss or unintentional release of the circumferential element, the first end of the circumferential element forms an unlocking surface which, in cooperation with the bar, allows release of the pivot pin from the pivot hook only over a limited angular range in the event of a snap-fit ​​disconnection at the second end. This unlocking surface may, for example, be provided by a setback area between the support surface on the one hand and a further stop surface as the angular limit for the maximum pivot-open position.

[0039] In order to reduce the number of circumferentially accessible areas for installation or maintenance purposes and to avoid separate access for each circumferential element, it is advantageous if at least one first radial bar is articulated on both sides with the first end of each of the two circumferential elements, and for this purpose preferably there are two swivel receivers per circumferential element. In this way, for example, if four bars are used on only two diametrically opposite sides, it is possible to provide access for inserting and removing lines, i.e. the circumferential elements are opened in pairs in the same circumferential area or from the same side, like a window with two sashes.

[0040] It is therefore likewise advantageous if at least one second radial bar can be locked on both sides with the second ends of both of the two circumferential elements by a snap-fit ​​connection, and for this purpose it is advantageous to have preferably two locking projections per circumferential element.

[0041] Thus, the two orbiting elements may be pivotally attached by both first ends to the same bar and may be closed by both second ends to a further bar.

[0042] The outer part may optionally consist of only one substantially completely circumferential element.

[0043] Preferably, however, at least two orbiting elements, in particular at least three orbiting elements, are included, which are preferably releasably, movably and / or pivotably held on the central part.

[0044] In one preferred further development, the outer part further comprises, in addition to the surrounding element, a surrounding annular elastic buffer or protector for shock absorption. The buffer surrounds the surrounding element from the outside and is preferably held axially relative to the surrounding element. For this purpose, the surrounding element may have a shape on the outside, and the buffer on the inside, with an annular recess and an engaging protrusion that hold the buffer in the axial direction. The buffer may simultaneously captively fix the surrounding element.

[0045] Preferably, one of the at least three radial bars, in particular the second radial bar mentioned above, i.e. the bar to which the two circumferential elements can be locked, has, for example, a radially protruding fastening area with fastening openings, to which the two ends of the annular elastic buffer can then be captively fastened, for example, by means of fastening screws.

[0046] Preferably, the orbiting element is fastenably, in particular lockably or pivotably, held on one or more bars independently of the buffer in the closed position. Installation and maintenance are simplified if the orbiting element remains held in the closed position even after removal of the buffer, i.e., only needs to be opened as required.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, each of the radial bars is realized as one piece.

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

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

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

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

[0052] The proposed line guide device is particularly suitable for use in line supply configurations, for example in drilling rigs or for onshore power supplies for ships provided with deflection rollers and / or drums, where the line guide device is deflected on the deflection rollers or wound up or unwound by the drums.

[0053] The present invention has particular advantages when relatively heavy line bundles need to be suspended substantially vertically over considerable lengths. The present invention is therefore particularly suitable for use on land or onshore or onshore or offshore drilling rigs, in particular as service loops, but is not limited to these fields. Further applications in offshore operations are, for example, supply cables (umbilicals) between platforms and supply vessels or onshore power supplies for ships. The inventive solution is also particularly well suited for onshore applications, in particular suspension applications, for example in drilling or deep drilling systems or in mining.

[0054] The conveying strands may in particular be conveying cables with high tensile strength, for example made of high-strength plastic. In the present case, tensile strength means that the conveying strands or cables have sufficient tensile strength to bear the total weight of the line guide device including all lines, i.e. an assumed end weight corresponding to the total weight of the line guide device with all lines. The required static load-bearing capacity of the conveying strands depends on the application involved but should normally be well above 1000 kg.

[0055] Preferably 900N / mm 2 Wire cables with individual cable wires of higher nominal strength of the wire material may be considered as conveying strands. In addition to or as an alternative to plastic cable wires, steel cable wires, possibly with a plastic core, may also be considered. The conveying strands or conveying cables should be as inextensible as possible. As an alternative to conveying cables, for example, link chains with, for example, steel links may also be used as conveying strands.

[0056] Preferably, however, a high-strength plastic conveying cable is used in combination with a guide body that is at least predominantly made of plastic. In this way, even with a relatively large capacity or large inner diameter for the guide body, for example an inner diameter significantly larger than 200 mm, and a corresponding load-bearing capacity, a relatively low weight per unit length of less than 40 kg / m can be achieved for the line guide device itself (without the guided line). Noise emissions are also significantly lower compared to link chains.

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

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

[0059] A second aspect relates to a line guide device for guiding a plurality of lines, such as cables, hoses, etc., which has a flexible conveying strand with high tensile strength extending over the length of the line guide device. For this purpose, it may consist of one continuous or several connected guide bodies, which are arranged longitudinally with respect to the conveying strand, adjacent bodies being spatially deflectable with respect to each other. At least some of these bodies take the form of guide bodies for the lines, and for this purpose, each of them has a central part with a fastening device for fastening to the conveying strand and outer parts with at least one circumferential element that externally bounds a receiving area for the line.

[0060] According to a second independent aspect of the invention, it is proposed that at least one spacer body is provided for the conveying strand between every two guide bodies at least in a longitudinal section or over the entire length of the line guide device, each spacer body defining the distance between the central parts of the two guide bodies. The spacer body is configured differently from the guide bodies and for this purpose can be realized, for example, without outer parts, but with a central part configured functionally similar to the guide bodies.

[0061] The core function of the spacer body is to define the spacing between two guide bodies along the conveying strand without substantially impairing their spatial deflectability, and for this purpose the spacer body may in particular be configured with a reduced outer diameter relative to the guide bodies and / or in such a way that the outer parts of the two guide bodies can abut against each other in the fully deflected relative position, in particular can directly impinge against each other.

[0062] A suitably configured spacer body, in particular having a significantly reduced outer diameter relative to the outer part of the guide body, simply makes it possible to realize a significantly larger relative pivot angle between two spaced apart guide bodies, or a larger deflection relative to the straight extension position, i.e., a significantly reduced radius of curvature or bending radius in the deflection region, which is particularly advantageous for larger diameter line guide devices, i.e., for applications with a large number of lines and / or large diameter lines, for example in the case of deep drilling rigs.

[0063] Compared to simpler means of fastening guide bodies to the conveying cable over a relatively long distance therebetween, the spacer bodies may further stiffen the conveying strands so that unwanted kinking can be prevented and the line can be protected, which is advantageous especially when flexible cables are used as the conveying strands.

[0064] In one embodiment, in a longitudinal section as viewed along the longitudinal direction of the conveying strand, every nth body is realized as a guide body, where n≧2. For example, only every second or every third body may be provided as an actual guide body for guiding the line. Thereby, or alternatively, only one spacer body may be provided between every second guide body.

[0065] In one particularly simple construction, guide bodies may be arranged alternating with spacer bodies at least in a longitudinal portion or over the entire length of the line guide device.

[0066] One additional beneficial effect of the spacer body is that it provides weight savings such that the overall weight of the line guide device can be reduced by providing the spacer body.

[0067] The central part radially inwardly bounds a receiving area for the line. The spacer body is preferably realized with a compact outer contour in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and lies substantially within the radial inner boundary of the receiving area for the line defined by the central part of the guide body. The contour of the spacer body therefore preferably does not substantially protrude radially into the receiving area so that the receiving area remains axially spaced from the line.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, similar to the preferred configuration of the guide body according to the first aspect, it may be provided that each spacer body connects two adjacent bodies in a spatially deflectable manner, in particular in an articulated manner. In this case, each spacer body may preferably have two joint areas at opposite ends suitable for an articulated connection with the guide body. These may be realized in a suitable or expedient manner for cooperation with corresponding joint areas of the central part of the guide body. Preferably, the joint areas of the spacer body and / or the guide body may be connected in an axially releasable manner, in particular, to each other, preferably such that tensile forces are not absorbed via the spacer body and / or the guide body but are absorbed mostly or exclusively by the conveying strand.

[0069] The spacer body is preferably dimensioned in such a way that a constant and uniform chain pitch is achieved over its length, in particular in the axial direction, where chain pitch here denotes, for example, the axial distance between two successive joint centers of the articulated connection of the body and is understood here to mean the same as the definition for a link chain.

[0070] It is fundamentally advantageous if the spacer body has a radially most compact structure, i.e. the maximum outer diameter of the spacer body is preferably significantly small, in particular less than 33% of the outer diameter of the outer part of the guide body, in particular not more than 30% of the outer diameter of the outer part.

[0071] The outer part forms a circular ring-shaped outer contour with a robust structure. The application of the second aspect is particularly advantageous for large diameter embodiments. This may provide that the outer diameter of the outer part of the guide body is at least 2.5 times the chain pitch, in particular 2.8 times or more the chain pitch. Additionally or alternatively, the outer diameter of the outer part may be, for example, 300 mm or more. Meanwhile, a reduced bending radius may also have an advantageous effect for relatively small diameters.

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

[0073] Depending on the preferred configuration of the guide bodies, each spacer body is preferably realized as a type of articulated clamping shell, for which purpose the spacer body may comprise, for example, a clamping joint and a clamping screw for fastening the two shell-shaped components to the conveying strand by generating a clamping force, in particular also in a manner that resists axial displacement.

[0074] In one simple construction, each spacer body may essentially consist of two elongated half-shell components, which may in particular be realised with an outer contour without interfering edges and / or without radially protruding bars.

[0075] The guide body may itself correspond in a second aspect to a configuration according to the teachings of WO 2019 / 243377. According to a preferred configuration, apart from the number of bars, they may also be configured according to the first aspect or the subsequent exemplary embodiment thereof.

[0076] In particular, the individual features of the first and second aspects, which are independent, are understood in this context as being meaningful for the invention and further as being combinable. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0077] [Figure 1A] 1 shows a side view of a first exemplary embodiment of a line guide device in a suspended configuration for supplying vertically mobile consumables; [Figure 1B] 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a line guide device in a suspended configuration for supplying vertically mobile consumables in a perspective enlarged view of the lower region, i.e., the deflection loop. [Figure 1C] 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a line guide device in a suspended configuration for feeding vertically mobile consumables, with a deflection region in which the line guide device is deflected around a deflection roller that is shown only diagrammatically. [Figure 2A] 1A-1B show an axial / longitudinal cross section of one guide body in the longitudinal direction through multiple guide bodies according to a first exemplary embodiment of the line guide device according to FIGS. 1A-1B. FIG. [Figure 2B] 1A-1B show radial cross-sections / sectional views of one guide body according to a first exemplary embodiment of the line guide device according to FIGS. 1A-1B; [Figure 2C] 2A-2B show a front view of a partially displayed guide body fully opened; [Figure 2D] 1 is a partial front view of the central part of the guide body. [Figure 3A] 2A to 2D show the end regions of the radial bars in a perspective view. [Figure 3B] 2A to 2D show individual circumferential elements in perspective view. [Figure 3C] A representation of the articulated joint of the orbiting element is shown in a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2B. [Figure 4A] 1A-1B, which shows an alternative exemplary embodiment of a guide body for a line guide device according to FIGS. 1A-1B having three radial bars, in a perspective view. [Figure 4B] 1A-1B, showing an alternative exemplary embodiment of a guide body for a line guide device according to FIGS. 1A-1B, which has three radial bars, in a front view. [Figure 5A] 1A-1B, which shows a further preferred exemplary embodiment of a guide body for a line guide device according to FIGS. 1A-1B having five radial bars. [Figure 5B] 1A-1B, which shows a further preferred exemplary embodiment of a guide body for a line guide device according to FIGS. 1A-1B having five radial bars in a front view. [Figure 6A] 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a line guide device according to a second independent aspect of the present invention in a side view in an extended position; [Figure 6B] 1 shows a fragmentary side view of a preferred embodiment of a line guide device according to a second independent aspect of the present invention, with a reduced bend radius deflection region; [Figure 7A] 1 shows a preferred exemplary embodiment of a spacer body for a line guide device according to the present invention, particularly the second aspect, in a perspective view; [Figure 7B] 1 shows a preferred exemplary embodiment of a spacer body for a line guide device according to the present invention, particularly the second aspect, in plan and side views; [Figure 7C] 1 shows a preferred exemplary embodiment of a spacer body for a line guide device according to the present invention, particularly the second aspect, in plan and side views; [Figure 7D]1 shows a preferred exemplary embodiment of a spacer body for a line guide device according to the present invention, particularly the second aspect, in a front view; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0078] Further details, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, which is given by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0079] 1A-1B show an example of a line guide device 10 in a suspended configuration having a first vertical longitudinal portion 12A having a first end 12C and a second vertical longitudinal portion 12B having a second end 12D. The first end 12C is connected to a machine part M, such as a drilling head, and in this example moves up and down vertically. The second longitudinal portion 12B, in turn, is fixed at its end 12D to a frame structure or stationary machine part F. In FIG. 1A, a loop 13 forms a freely hanging deflection region connecting the two substantially vertically suspended longitudinal portions 12A, 12B.

[0080] The line guide device 10 comprises a flexible conveying cable 11 made of high-strength plastic fibres, for example high-modulus polyethylene or high-modulus polyamide, which, as a conveying strand, carries a weight load. For this purpose, the free or protruding end regions 11A, 11B of the conveying cable 11 on both sides are suitably fixed to a movable mechanical part M and a stationary mechanical part F (schematically shown in FIG. 1A). As a second essential component, the line guide device 10 comprises a plurality of annular closed guide bodies 14 (FIG. 1B) which are adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction of the conveying strand 11. The guide bodies 14 are arranged in line with one another relative to the conveying cable 11 and are thereby supported and held. The conveying cable 11 thereby bears at least the total weight of all the guide bodies 14.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 1B, the loop 13 between the longitudinal portions 12A, 12B forms a relatively small radius, i.e., the longitudinal portions 12A, 12B may extend at a small horizontal distance relative to one another. The small radius is made possible, among other things, by the fact that adjacent guide bodies 14 may form acute angles with respect to one another. Each guide body 14 is spatially movable relative to one another, as shown in FIG. 1B. However, the distance between the longitudinal portions 12A, 12B may be larger depending on the particular application, and the longitudinal portions 12A, 12B may not hang vertically. The line guide device 10 may extend in different manners depending on the application.

[0082] 1C is a schematic diagram of a deflection roller U around which the line guide device 10 is deflected. Depending on the weight load, e.g., the length of the freely hanging portion (longitudinal portion) 12A, large radial forces can now act on the guide body 14 in the direction of its radius R.

[0083] 2A-2B show a first exemplary embodiment of a guide body 14 for a line guide device 10, which has been further developed to absorb large radial forces. Each guide body 14 has, on the inside, a central member or part 15A with a central axis A and a passage opening 16 coaxial with the central axis A for passing the conveying strand 11 (FIG. 1A), and, on the outside, an outer part 15B with a total of four circumferential elements 17, each of which has a circular arc shape, here with an arc length of approximately 90 degrees, for holding a line (not shown). For this purpose, each circumferential element 17 radially outwards bounds a receiving area L, which is open in the axial direction, for one or more lines.

[0084] The central part 15A comprises a fastening device 18 for statically fastening the guide body 14 in the axial direction to the suspension cable (carrying cable) 11 (see FIG. 2A), which is embodied in FIGS. 2A to 2D as a screw fastening device (fastening device) 18 in the form of an articulated fastening shell.

[0085] For this purpose, the central part 15A has two integral components 20A, 20B made of plastic, each of which has an inner clamping shell 21A, 21B. Due to their conjugated configuration, the clamping shells 21A, 21B form a hinge-like joint 24 (see FIG. 2B) on one side, pivotally connecting the clamping shells 21A, 21B. On the other side, the clamping shells 21A, 21B have through-holes for clamping screws 25 that internally tighten the generally U-shaped clamping shells 21A, 21B relative to each other. Other fastening devices 18, such as quick-release clamping devices, may alternatively be considered. The clamping shells 21A, 21B further form through-holes 16 on their two generally semi-cylindrical inner surfaces. As a result of tightening the clamping shells 21A, 21B, the inner surface of the passage opening 16 is fixed in a force-locking relationship to the conveying strand (conveying cable) 11, so that the central part 15A, i.e. the guide body 14, is fastened to the conveying cable 11. Profilings extending transversely to the central axis A, such as clamping tooth arrangements, are provided on the inner surfaces of the two clamping shells 21A, 21B for better axial fixation.

[0086] As shown in Figures 2B-2D, each of the two components 20A, 20B further comprises two radial bars 22A, 22B and 22C, 22D, respectively, integral with the respective clamping shells 21A, 21B. Thus, according to Figures 2A-2D, the central region or central part 15A comprises a total of four radial bars 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D, which are uniformly distributed around the circumference at angular intervals of approximately 90 degrees. Figure 2D shows only the inner (central) part 15A folded open using joints 24, without the outer part 15B or the circumferential element 17, and the opening is sufficient for lateral attachment to the conveying strand 11.

[0087] Each outer part 15B is attached to the radially outer end region of a first-type bar 22A or 22C, both of which are identical in construction. These first bars 22A or 22C articulate two circumferential elements 17, here in pairs, by means of articulation joints 23, in the manner of a hinged swivel joint or a revolute joint. Each of the two circumferential elements 17 is thus pivotably connected to the corresponding bar 22A or 22C of the central part 15A by the associated articulation joints 23, e.g., hinges, between the closed position shown in FIG. 2B and the open position shown in FIG. 2C. This facilitates the insertion or removal of a line into one of the receiving areas L. The four circumferential elements 17 are preferably standard parts, e.g., realized as plastic parts, in particular molded parts produced by injection molding, in the form of quadrants.

[0088] At a first end, the orbiting element 17 forms, for the articulated joint 23, an axially extending pivot pin 23A or bearing bolt (FIG. 3B) which is rotatably mounted in a rotation receiver 23B which, as can be seen most clearly in FIG. 3C, is provided with hook-shaped, approximately tangentially arranged projections 23C, both of which are arranged on either side of the first type of bar 22A or 22C.

[0089] 3B further shows two support surfaces 17A arranged axially on either side of the first end of the orbiting element 17 adjacent to the joint area with the pivot pin 23A, by means of which the first end of the orbiting element 17 together with the articulation joint 23 is supported circumferentially and against axial tilt on the respective radial bar 22A or 22C when the orbiting element 17 is closed. The support surfaces 17A here simultaneously form the angular abutment in the closed position (FIG. 2B). Two stop surfaces 17B are present further radially outward to bound the pivot opening angle in the fully open position (rather than the stop position in FIG. 2C). The first end of the orbiting element 17 forms a retraction unlocking surface 17C between surfaces 17A, 17B, as shown in FIG. 3C, which cooperates with hook-like projections 23C on bars 22A, 22C to allow release of the pivot pin from the hook or rotation receiver 23B only over a limited angular range when the snap-fit ​​connection at the second end is released.

[0090] The second end of the circumferential element 17 also forms a support surface 17D, by means of which the second end can be supported in the circumferential direction against the corresponding radial bar 22B, 22D.

[0091] At its second end, the circumferential element 17 may be fastened to two further bars 22B, 22D in their radial end regions, configured according to a second type by a snap-fit ​​connection, in order to close the circumferential element 17 in the closed pivot position (FIG. 2B). For this purpose, the second end of the circumferential element 17 forms a locking receiver 27A that can be locked onto a complementary or conjugated locking protrusion 27B on the second type bar 22B or 22D in order to fix the circumferential element 17 in the closed position. In this case, the locking receiver 27A and the locking protrusion 27B extend substantially tangentially and are configured to be releasable by leverage or twisting in the tangential direction but not immediately releasable by purely radial forces. Furthermore, a locking protrusion 27C is provided on the locking protrusion 27B and engages in a recess 27D at the second end of the circumferential element 17 to secure it in the circumferential direction.

[0092] 2A-2C further show an annular elastic buffer 19 made of elastomer, which surrounds the orbiting element 17 substantially over its entire circumference. The buffer 19 may be rounded in cross section or at its axial ends toward the orbiting surface, acting as an angular abutment to limit the minimum deflection radius of the loop 13 (FIG. 1B) on the one hand, and to cushion radial shocks, e.g., during installation / processing or transportation, on the other. The buffer 19 is securely held axially relative to the orbiting element 17 by having one or more inner protrusions (FIG. 2A) that engage in annular recesses on the outer side of the orbiting element 17. For this purpose, the orbiting element 17 has radially protruding edges 17E on both axial end faces that hold the buffer 19, as shown in FIG. 3B.

[0093] 3A further shows radially protruding fastening areas 29A on the bar 22B with through-threaded openings 29B for fastening screws 29C, together with safety nuts or the like that close the buffer 19 in a complementary manner and fasten it to the central part 15A. In this way, the orbiting element 17 is simultaneously and captivatingly fixed to the central part 15A by the buffer, independently of the articulation joint 23 and the snap-fit ​​connection (locking receivers 27A, locking projections 27B) (see FIG. 2B). This results in the radial dimension of the bar 22B being larger than that of the bar 22D by the dimension of the protruding fastening areas 29A. The bar 22D is otherwise realized identically, and in particular has locking projections 27B on both sides, as shown in FIG. 3A (see FIG. 2B).

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

[0095] Each buffer 19 is in the form of an open ring with a gap for attachment to the bar 22B and is closed by a fixing screw 29C. In the example shown, the buffers 19 do not protrude axially beyond the circumferential element 17, but are instead flush with the axial end of the circumferential element 17. However, protruding configurations are also possible. The elastic shock-absorbing buffers 19 may be solid or, preferably for lighter weight, may be realized as profiled bodies as shown in FIG. 2A or as hollow bodies.

[0096] FIG. 2A further illustrates two central, axially projecting joint areas 26A, 26B of the central part 15A. They function to provide a defined, low-wear relative movement of adjacent guide bodies 14 from an extended position in the longitudinal sections 12A, 12B back to a fully bent position at the apex of the loop 13 (at the bottom of FIG. 1B) without transverse displacement relative to one another. For this purpose, each central part 15A has two joint areas 26A, 26B in opposing relationship at its ends, coaxially aligned with the central axis A. The opposing joint areas 26A, 26B are of a conjugate or paired embodiment, such that one joint area 26A can be coaxially releasably inserted into the respective conjugate joint area 26B of an adjacent guide body with little or no force, particularly without the need for tools, without transmitting tensile forces in the direction of axis A. The structure of the joint areas 26A, 26B itself corresponds to the teachings of WO 2019 / 243377.

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

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

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

[0100] For example, the line guide device 60 allows for a significantly reduced radius of curvature or bending radius KR (see FIG. 6B) relative to FIG. 1C, for example compared to structures known from WO 2019 / 243377.

[0101] For this purpose, at least one spacer body 70 is provided between two guide bodies 14 (not shown here, see FIG. 1A) for the conveying strand, either in the deflected longitudinal section (FIG. 6B) or over the entire length of the line guide device 60. The spacer body 70 ensures the axial spacing between the central parts 15A (see FIGS. 2A-2D or 4-5) of the two guide bodies 14. The guide body 14 in this case can have a structure known per se with a central part 15A and outer parts 15B, for example a structure according to WO 2019 / 243377 or indeed a structure according to the attached drawings 2A-2D or 4-5, and will therefore not be described in more detail.

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

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

[0104] In the example of Figures 6A-6B, when viewed along the conveying cable, every other link-like body of the line guide device 60 is a guide body 14, and every other body alternating therewith is a spacer body 70, but other configurations, such as a configuration having two spacer bodies 70 between every third guide body 14, are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0105] As becomes clear by comparing the cross-sectional or front view of Figure 7D with, for example, Figure 2B, the spacer body 70 has a compactly configured outer contour in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, which lies substantially within the radially inner boundary of the receiving area L for the line (see, for example, Figure 2B) defined by the central part 15A of the guide body 14.

[0106] The spacer body 70 connects two adjacent bodies, i.e., the guide body 14 or the spacer body 70, in a spatially deflectable and articulated manner. For this purpose, the spacer body has two joint areas 76A, 76B at opposite ends, which correspond to the corresponding joint areas 26A, 26B (see FIG. 2A ) of the central part 15A of the guide body 14. The structure of the joint areas 26A, 26B or 76A, 76B corresponds, for example, to the teachings of WO 2019 / 243377, where, inter alia, the joint heads (joint areas) 26A, 76A and the joint receivers (joint areas) 26B, 76B enable an axially releasable ball-joint-like connection. The spacer body 70 is dimensioned axially so that a constant and uniform chain pitch T is achieved over its entire length.

[0107] The maximum outer diameter d of the spacer body 70 is preferably less than 30% of the outer diameter D of the outer part 15B of the guide body 14 and is preferably less than or equal to the bounded inner diameter of the receiving area L. The outer diameter of the outer part 15B may in particular be greater than 2.8 times the chain pitch T, and still the spacer body 70 allows a very small bending radius KR, for example less than 150% of the outer diameter of the outer part 15B, as shown in Figure 6B.

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

Claims

1. A line guide device (10) for guiding a plurality of lines, a flexible carrier strand (11) with high tensile strength; a number of guide bodies (14) arranged longitudinally relative to the conveying strand, with adjacent guide bodies (14) being spatially deflectable relative to one another; At least some of the guide bodies are a central part (15A) having a fastening device (18) for fastening to said conveying strand (11); an outer part (15B) having at least one circumferential element (17) which bounds on the outside a receiving area (L) for the line; and At least three radial bars (22A-22D; 42A-42C; 52A-52E) are provided on the central part (15A) and hold the outer part (15B); said at least one circumferential element (17) being releasably connected to at least one of said radial bars; Each orbiting element is pivotally connected to a radial bar by an articulation joint and has a first end having a joint region with a pivot pin pivotally connected to a pivot receiver on the radial bar; each circumferential element having a second end engageable with a further radial bar by a releasable snap-fit ​​connection and forming a locking receiver engageable with a complementarily configured locking projection on said further radial bar, said locking projection extending in a circumferential direction or a tangential direction thereto.

2. The line guide device according to claim 1 , wherein the locking projection is realized integrally with the radial portion of the radial bar.

3. 3. The line guide device according to claim 2, wherein the circumferential elements (17) are configured for circumferential support by releasable end regions of the corresponding radial bars.

4. At least four radial bars (22A, 22B, 22C, 22D) are provided on said central part (15A) and carry or support said outer part (15B), or 4. The line guide device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least five radial bars (52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 52E) are provided on the central part (15A) and carry or support the outer part (15B).

5. 5. The line guide device according to claim 1, wherein the central part (15A) forms an axial passage opening (16) for the conveying strand (11), and the central part (15A) has at least two or only two components (20A, 20B) for fastening to the conveying strand (11), said components being realized for a form- and / or force-locking fastening to the conveying strand (11) and for delimiting the passage opening (16).

6. said flexible carrier strand (11) being realized as a cable, 6. The line guide device according to claim 5, wherein the fastening device (18) of the central part (15A) is realized in the form of an articulated clamping shell and comprises joints (24) and clamping screws (25) for fastening the at least two or only two components (20A, 20B) to the conveying strand (11) or cable by generating a clamping force.

7. 7. The line guide device according to claim 1, wherein the outer part (15B) surrounds the central part (15A) in a closed manner and has at least one opening and closing body for closing the receiving area in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction.

8. a number of circumferential elements (17) corresponding to the number of radial bars (22A, 22B, 22C, 22D) are provided; 8. The line guide device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein each circumferential element (17) is releasably connected to two radial bars (22A, 22B, 22C, 22D).

9. 9. The line guide device according to claim 8, wherein each radial bar comprises a radially extending portion for releasable connection with one circumferential element and at least one circumferentially extending projection (27B) realized integrally with said radially extending portion, said at least one projection having a locking element (27C) for locking engagement with said circumferential element.

10. a first end of the circumferential element (17) forms two axial support surfaces (17A) on either side adjacent to the joint area (23A), by means of which the first end can be supported in the circumferential direction against the radial bars (22A; 22C); and / or the second end of the circumferential element (17) has a support surface (17D) by means of which the second end can be supported in the circumferential direction relative to the radial bar (22B; 22D); and / or 10. The line guide device according to claim 9, wherein the locking receiver (27A) and the locking projection (27B) extend in a substantially tangential direction and / or are releasable by leveraging or twisting about the tangential direction.

11. 11. The line guide device according to claim 10, wherein the first end of the orbiting element (17) cooperates with the radial bars (22A, 22C) to form an unlocking surface (17C) that allows release of the pivot pin (23A) only over a limited angular range.

12. At least one first radial bar (22A, 22C) is articulated (23) on both sides with the first ends of both of the two orbiting elements (17), and has two swivel receiving portions (23B) for each orbiting element (17); 12. The line guide device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein at least one second radial bar (22C, 22D) can be locked on both sides with the second end of each of the two circumferential elements (17) by a snap-fit ​​connection.

13. 13. The line guide device according to claim 1, wherein the outer part (15B) comprises at least two circumferential elements (17; 47; 57) releasably, movably and / or pivotably held relative to the central part (15A), and a circumferential annular elastic buffer (19) for shock absorption, surrounding the circumferential elements (17; 47; 57) from the outside and held axially relative to the circumferential elements (17).

14. 14. The line guide device according to claim 13, wherein the circumferential element (17; 47; 57) has a shape on the outside and the circumferential annular elastic buffer (19) has a shape on the inside having an annular recess and an engaging protrusion that hold the circumferential annular elastic buffer in the axial direction.

15. 15. The line guide device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein one of the at least three radial bars (42A to 42C) has a radially protruding fixing area (29A) to which the circumferential annular elastic buffer (19) can be fastened.

16. each radial bar (22A-22D) is realized as a single unit, and / or each circumferential element (17) is realized as a continuous arcuate segment between two circumferentially consecutive radial bars (22A-22B) and is held at the ends of said radial bars (22A-22B); and / or said radial bars (22A-22D) are evenly distributed around the central axis in said circumferential direction, and / or each circumferential element (17) is realized in the form of a circular arc, having a radius of less than or equal to 120° in said circumferential direction; and / or the inner diameter of said outer part (15B) is 300 mm or more, and / or 16. A line guide device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer part of the guide body is realised with mirror symmetry with respect to a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

17. A guide body (14) for a line guide device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, comprising: a central part (15A) having a fastening device (18) for fastening to the conveying strand (11); an outer part (15B) having at least one circumferentially extending circumferential element (17) which bounds on the outside a receiving area (L) for the line; Equipped with At least three radial bars (22A-22D; 42A-42C; 52A-52E) are provided on said central part (15A) and hold said outer part (15B), said at least one circumferential element (17) being releasably connected to at least one of said radial bars; Each orbiting element is pivotally connected to a radial bar by an articulation joint and has a first end having a joint region with a pivot pin pivotally connected to a pivot receiver on the radial bar; each circumferential element has a second end lockable by a releasable snap-fit ​​connection to a further radial bar and forming a locking receiver lockable with a complementary configured locking projection on said further radial bar, said locking projection extending in said circumferential direction or in a direction tangential thereto; Guide body.

18. 18. Guide body according to claim 17, wherein in the operating state of the guide body (14), the outer part (15B) forms a ring around the central part (15A), which ring is penetrated or completed by the radial end regions of the radial bars (22A-22D; 42A-42C; 52A-52E).

19. A guide body as described in Claim 17, wherein the circumferential elements (17) are configured for circumferential support by releasable end regions of the corresponding radial bars.

Images