Clamping device and contact device for a plate, and method for clamping at least one workpiece between the clamping device and the contact device.

Abstract

A clamping device for a plate (102) is provided, the clamping device comprising: a holder (112) in which a bolt (116) is arranged to enter an opening (104) in the plate (102); a clamp rail (126) linearly displaceable relative to the holder (112) along a displacement axis (130); and a pressure piece (132) arranged or formed on the clamp rail (126), the clamp rail (126) being guided for linear displacement on a guide element (128) movably supported on the holder (112), the guide element (128) being supported for height movement such that a height distance of the pressure piece (132) relative to the bolt (116) and / or the holder (112) depends on a position of the guide element (128) relative to the holder (112), the height distance intersecting the displacement axis (130) of the clamp rail (126).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clamping device for a plate, comprising a holder in which bolts are arranged to enter an opening of the plate, a clamping rail linearly displaceable relative to the holder along a displacement axis, and a pressing piece arranged or formed on the clamping rail.

[0002] The present invention further relates to a clamping device for a plate, comprising a holder in which bolts are arranged to enter an opening of the plate, a clamping rail linearly displaceable relative to the holder along a displacement axis, and a clamping lever for actuating the displacement movement of the clamping rail.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a contacting device for a plate, comprising a holder, bolts arranged on the holder and provided to enter an opening of the plate, and a contact element having a contact surface for a workpiece.

[0004] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for clamping at least one workpiece against a plate between a clamping device and a contacting device, wherein the clamping device comprises a first holder, a first bolt arranged on the first holder, and a first contact area for at least one workpiece, the bolt enters a first opening of the plate, the contacting device comprises a second holder, a second bolt arranged on the second holder, and a second contact area for at least one workpiece, and the second bolt enters a second opening of the plate.

[0005] The plate can be part of a multi-functional table. The plate is provided with an opening for inserting a bolt. The corresponding clamping device is also called an MFT clamping device.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a clamping device of the type described first, which can securely fix a workpiece to the plate when the workpiece is clamped, and which significantly prevents the workpiece from lifting when the workpiece is clamped. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved in the clamping device described first, wherein the clamp rail is guided to be linearly displaced on a guide element movably supported on the retainer, the guide element being supported for height movement such that the height distance of the pressurizing piece relative to the bolt and / or the retainer depends on the position of the guide element relative to the retainer, and the height distance intersects the displacement axis of the clamp rail.

[0008] The clamp rail is provided with a guide element that is movable in the height direction relative to the holder. The guide element, the clamp rail, and therefore the pressurizing piece provide an additional degree of freedom of movement, i.e., height mobility, in addition to the ability to move linearly along the displacement axis.

[0009] Such additional degrees of freedom of movement allow the pressure piece to move toward the plate when the workpiece is clamped to the plate. This mobility in the clamping device generates a holding force on the clamped workpiece. Such a holding force significantly prevents the workpiece from lifting and improves its fixation to the plate. Thus, the workpiece can then be clamped more accurately and securely in place to the plate via the clamping device without the risk of lifting.

[0010] In particular, in the clamped state, when the clamping device exerts a clamping force on the workpiece, the guide element is positioned to be supported on the holder for height movement such that the height distance of the pressing piece relative to the bolt and / or the holder is smaller than in the released state, when the clamping device does not exert a clamping force. This makes it possible to generate a pressing force that biases the clamping device against the plate in the clamped state.

[0011] It is advantageous that the guide element is movable in the height direction relative to the holder so that a pressing force is applied to the workpiece when the clamping device is in a clamped state that applies a clamping force to the workpiece. This biases the clamping device against the plate, and the bolt is correspondingly biased into the opening in which the bolt is already inserted. This significantly prevents the workpiece from lifting up. This results in improved fixation of the workpiece to the plate. Thus, the workpiece can then be clamped more securely in place against the plate via the clamping device.

[0012] In particular, the bolt extends along the height axis, the height distance is parallel to the height axis, and the guide element is installed to support the height movement on the holder such that the pressure piece has a movable component parallel to the height axis via the guide element. This provides a simple method for generating a pressing force in the direction toward the plate when the workpiece is clamped, and the pressure piece acts on the workpiece.

[0013] It is advantageous that the guide element is supported so as to be rotatable or displaceable relative to the holder. This makes it possible to achieve a movable component of the pressure piece in the height direction with a simple structure via the guide element. This, in turn, provides a simple method for generating a clamping force when the workpiece is clamped.

[0014] Here, via the height-movable guide element, the clamp rail may be rotatable relative to the bolt and / or the holder, or the clamp rail as a whole may be displaceable in the height direction, or the clamp rail may be displaceable in the height direction in one or more parts thereof. By the rotatability, or by the height displacement in one or more parts, the angular position of the clamp rail with respect to a horizontal axis or the plane of the plate may be changed in the clamping operation to generate a clamping force. The horizontal axis is, for example, an axis parallel to the contact surface of the holder with respect to the plate. It is also possible to support the clamp rail as a whole so as to be displaceable in the height direction relative to the holder via the height-movable guide element. This is another method for generating a clamping force in the clamping operation. Specifically, the clamping force is then transmitted to the holder or the bolt via the guide element, and the entire clamping device is biased against the plate.

[0015] Here, the angular position of the clamp rail relative to the bolt and / or the holder can be varied via the height-movable guide element, specifically by at least one of the following: - In the clamped state in which the clamping device exerts a clamping force on the workpiece, the clamp rail is positioned such that its displacement axis is at an acute angle with respect to the horizontal axis of the holder; - The maximum acute angle of the clamp rail with respect to the horizontal axis of the retainer is such that the clamp rail or the pressure piece does not protrude beyond the lower surface of the retainer, which is provided to contact the plate, at any displacement position of the clamp rail; - The maximum acute angle with respect to the horizontal axis is 15° or less, particularly 10° or less, particularly 7° or less, particularly 6° or less, and particularly 5° or less.

[0016] The angular position of the clamp rail can be changed via a rotatable (and thereby vertically movable) guide element, or via a guide element that is vertically displaceable in part (and may be vertically displaceable to different degrees in different parts). In particular, this makes it possible to achieve the effect that the angular position differs from that of the unclamped state when the clamped state of the clamping device is a clamped state in which a workpiece is clamped and a corresponding pressure is applied to the workpiece by the pressure piece. This makes it possible to generate a pressing force in the clamped state.

[0017] Correspondingly, when in a clamped state, it is advantageous for the clamp rail to have its displacement axis at an acute angle with respect to the horizontal axis of the holder. In particular, the horizontal axis of the holder is an axis parallel to the contact surface of the holder with respect to the plate. In the case of a flat plate, and when the holder is precisely positioned, the horizontal axis is particularly parallel to the surface of the plate. In the clamped state, a pressing force can be achieved through the acute angle.

[0018] Therefore, it is advantageous that the maximum acute angle does not exceed the maximum size in sequence, in particular to prevent the pressure piece or the clamp rail from colliding with the plate before contacting the workpiece. The clamp rail or pressure piece is designed so that it does not protrude beyond the lower surface of the holder at any displacement position of the clamp rail.

[0019] It has been found that the corresponding acute angle is advantageous to be 15° or less, particularly 10° or less, particularly 7° or less, particularly 6° or less, and particularly 5° or less. In a specific exemplary embodiment, the angle is approximately 4.5°. In principle, if the holder has a correspondingly large height in the height direction, the acute angle can be large. On the other hand, to achieve compact dimensions, it is advantageous for the maximum acute angle to be small. To achieve a sufficient clamping force, it is desirable for the maximum acute angle to be large. The above values ​​allow for an optimized trade-off between the dimensions (particularly height) of the clamping device and sufficient holding force.

[0020] In the embodiment, the guide element is rotatably supported by the retainer via a rotating bearing, particularly by at least one of the following: - The pivot axis of the pivot bearing is oriented in a direction intersecting, and particularly perpendicular, to the displacement axis of the clamp rail; - The pivot axis of the pivot bearing is oriented in a direction intersecting with respect to the direction of the height distance, and particularly perpendicular to it; - The pivot axis of the pivot bearing is oriented in a direction intersecting, and particularly perpendicular to, the height axis of the bolt; - The guide element is configured in the form of a locker; - The clamp rail is positioned between the rotating bearing and the bolt with respect to the height distance; - The rotating bearing is positioned such that its projection in the direction of the height distance is on the bolt or at a distance of less than 2 cm from the bolt, across the height axis of the bolt.

[0021] A rotatable guide element can be implemented by a simple structure. Through this rotatability, the height mobility component of the guide element, and therefore the clamp rail, and therefore the pressure piece, can be achieved. The distance of the pressure piece relative to the bolt can be varied with respect to the height. This is achieved by the corresponding orientation of the pivot axis. If the guide element is configured in the form of a rocker, it can be configured for a simple structure. When the clamp rail is positioned between the pivot bearing and the bolt, the effect can be achieved in a simple way by realizing the height mobility of the pressure piece through the rotatability of the guide element. The projection of the pivot axis on the bolt in the direction of the height distance or in the direction of the shorter distance to the bolt prevents the generation of turbulent tilt moments in the clamping device.

[0022] In an alternative embodiment, the guide element is displaceable in the height direction relative to the retainer and is supported to displace relative to the retainer in a direction transverse to the displacement axis of the clamp rail. This allows for the acquisition of the height mobility component of the clamp rail and therefore the pressurizing piece.

[0023] Therefore, it is advantageous to provide a displacement bearing in which the guide element is supported so as to be displaceable relative to the retainer. The guide element is then configured as a slide, which is displaceable relative to the retainer, and in particular is linearly displaceable in one or more linear directions.

[0024] In an embodiment of a simple structure, the displacement bearing has at least one elongated hole through which a pin is guided, (i) the pin is connected to the guiding element in a relation fixed translationally to the guiding element, and the at least one elongated hole is fixed translationally to the holder or (ii) the pin is fixed translationally to the holder and the at least one elongated hole is connected in a relation fixed translationally to the guiding element. By using the one or more elongated hole guides, a simple method for realizing a displacement bearing, particularly a sliding bearing, is provided. Then, the guiding element can be formed in a simple manner as a slide supported to be displaced relative to the holder. The displacement bearing is arranged directly on the holder or, for example, is fixedly connected to the holder or is arranged in a housing formed on the holder.

[0025] In particular, it is advantageous if at least one of the following is provided: - A plurality of elongated holes spaced in a direction parallel to the displacement axis of the clamping rail are provided; - The elongated holes have an elongated hole axis arranged at an acute angle to the horizontal axis of the holder, in particular the acute angle is in the range between 2° and 25°; - (i) In the case of a plurality of elongated holes, these have the same configuration and the angular position of the clamping rail relative to the bolt does not change when the guiding element is displaced in the height direction, or (ii) in the case of a plurality of elongated holes, these are arranged and / or formed differently and the angular position of the clamping rail relative to the bolt changes when the guiding element is displaced in the height direction; - The guiding element has a translational component parallel to the horizontal axis of the holder; - The at least one elongated hole is arranged in a housing connected to the holder or which is part of the holder.

[0026] By providing multiple elongated holes, stable support of the guide element to the holder is achieved. In particular, a first set of opposing elongated holes is provided, and the clamp rail is positioned between these opposing elongated holes. Furthermore, a second set of elongated holes is provided, and the clamp rail is similarly positioned between the second set of elongated holes. The first set of elongated holes and the second set of elongated holes are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the clamp rail. This makes it possible to achieve "four-point support" of the guide element to the holder.

[0027] If the elongated hole has an elongated hole axis positioned at an acute angle with respect to the horizontal axis of the holder, further displacement in the height direction can be performed by displacement motion in a direction at least substantially parallel to the horizontal axis. This allows the height distance of the pressurizing piece relative to the bolt to be changed, and a pressing force can be generated in the clamped state.

[0028] Here, by arranging multiple elongated holes in a corresponding manner, it is possible to ensure that the angular position of the clamp rail does not change when the height distance changes, or that the angular position does not change. If the elongated holes have parallel axes, the angular position usually does not change. If the axes of the elongated holes are not parallel, the angular position can be changed.

[0029] When the guide element has a component of movement parallel to the horizontal axis of the holder, a configuration with a simple structure is provided. The guide element then has a component of movement perpendicular to the horizontal axis of the holder via the displacement support. This height component of movement allows the pressure piece to be lower than the unclamped state relative to the bolt in the clamped state, thereby generating the pressing force.

[0030] A simple structure is obtained when the at least one elongated hole is connected to the retainer or located in a housing that is part of the retainer.

[0031] It is particularly advantageous that the retainer has a lower surface having a contact surface for contacting the plate, and the bolt extends in a cross direction away from the lower surface by at least one of the following: - The contact surface is flat; - The contact surface is parallel to the horizontal axis in which the bolt is oriented in the intersecting direction, particularly perpendicularly.

[0032] This provides a method for securely clamping a workpiece to the plate. The clamping device can be fixed to the plate in a shape-lock manner with respect to the direction of the bolts across the height axis of the bolts by the bolts within the openings of the plate. The contact surfaces, particularly the flat surface of the lower surface of the retainer, enable the plate to achieve a downward shape-lock connection toward the plate.

[0033] When a clamp lever rotatable relative to the holder is provided, ease of operation is provided in particular by at least one of the following: - The pivot axis of the clamp lever is oriented in a direction intersecting the displacement axis of the clamp rail; - The pivot axis of the clamp lever is oriented parallel to the height axis of the bolt, or at an acute angle of less than 15°; - The pivot axis of the clamp lever is oriented in a direction intersecting the contact surface of the retainer with respect to the plate.

[0034] This makes the clamp lever easier for the operator to operate. In particular, the operator can rotate the clamp lever from a position above the plate without the clamp lever coming into contact with the plate.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp lever is positioned on the guide element and is movable together with the guide element. This can provide structural advantages.

[0036] Alternatively, the clamp lever may be positioned on the holder, and the guide element may be movable (at least) in the height direction relative to the clamp lever.

[0037] It is particularly advantageous that the clamp lever has at least a first position in which the displacement motion of the clamp rail along the displacement axis is released, and a second position which is a blocking position in which the displacement of the clamp rail in the backward direction is prevented. Therefore, for example, when the clamp lever is in the first position, the operator can freely displace the clamp rail, for example, so that the clamping piece contacts the workpiece being clamped or is positioned directly in front of the workpiece. The second position is a blocking position in which the displacement of the clamp rail in the backward direction can be prevented. This allows the clamping position of the workpiece to be fixed.

[0038] When in the second position, the clamp lever is prevented from moving from the second position, which is particularly advantageous when a self-locking mechanism is provided to prevent it from moving to the second position. This provides an effective way to prevent the clamped position of the workpiece from being released unintentionally. The operator can then release the locking action under the action of an increased force to move the clamp lever from the second position.

[0039] It is advantageous that at least one forward element associated with the clamp lever, through which the clamp lever acts on the clamp rail, is provided by at least one of the following: - The clamp rail passes through the opening of the at least one forward element; - The at least one forward element is composed of a plate, particularly a sheet metal plate; - At the first position of the clamp lever, the at least one forward element is positioned such that the clamp rail can be freely displaced along the displacement axis; - Starting from the first position of the clamp lever, the rotation of the clamp lever results in an inclination of the at least one forward element with respect to the clamp rail, resulting in the advance of the at least one forward element, and therefore the clamp rail, along the displacement axis.

[0040] Through the forward element, the clamp lever acts on the clamp rail to displace the clamp rail. Furthermore, the forward element can prevent the backward movement of the clamp rail (movement of the pressurizing piece toward the retainer). Here, exactly one forward element may be provided, or a forward element package comprising multiple forward elements may be provided, which are arranged in particular to be in contact with each other. The forward element package may comprise two forward elements or three or more forward elements.

[0041] A simple method is provided for achieving an inclination of the clamp rail for transport by the forward element, by having the clamp rail pass through the opening of the at least one forward element, thereby achieving a blocking action. Furthermore, this also provides a simple method for releasing the blocked state.

[0042] With the aforementioned configuration as a plate, particularly a sheet metal plate, the at least one forward element can be constructed and manufactured with a simple structure.

[0043] In the first position of the clamp lever, the at least one forward element is positioned such that the clamp rail can move freely along its displacement axis. Thus, when the clamp lever is in the first position, a simple method is provided for an operator to arbitrarily position the pressurizing piece relative to the workpiece by the corresponding displacement of the clamp rail.

[0044] The rotation of the clamp lever, starting from the first position, achieves the inclination of the at least one forward element relative to the clamp rail. The clamp rail can then be moved and displaced along the displacement axis by the movement of the forward element. Furthermore, the rearward displacement of the clamp rail can be prevented via the inclined forward element. This provides a simple method for applying a clamping force corresponding to a workpiece, and the workpiece or multiple workpieces can be clamped against the plate via the clamping device.

[0045] In a simple structural embodiment, an actuating element is connected to the clamp lever in a fixed relationship with respect to rotation, and this actuating element acts on the at least one forward element, which causes the at least one forward element to tilt relative to the clamp rail, resulting in a longitudinal displacement of the clamp rail along the displacement axis. This arrangement provides a simple structure and a simple method for performing the clamping operation.

[0046] In exemplary embodiments, the actuating element acts directly on, and in particular contacts, the at least one forward element. Preferably, there is direct contact between the actuating element and the at least one forward element.

[0047] Alternatively, the actuating element may be positioned to act directly on the guide element, in particular to contact the guide element, the guide element then acts directly on the at least one forward element, in particular to contact the at least one forward element, and the actuating element causes a longitudinal displacement of the guide element, in particular the longitudinal displacement of the guide element is parallel to the displacement axis of the clamp rail. The longitudinal displacement of the guide element then causes an inclination of the at least one forward element, followed by transport along the displacement axis of the clamp rail along the at least one forward element, and then causes a displacement of the clamp rail.

[0048] It is particularly advantageous that the actuation element is configured as an eccentric body. The rotation of the clamp lever having the actuation element can be converted into a linear displacement of the at least one forward element, and therefore the clamp rail. Furthermore, this also provides a simple method for achieving an inclination of the at least one forward element, starting from a non-inclined state of the at least one forward element.

[0049] Therefore, it is advantageous that at least one of the following is provided: - The operating element is rotatably supported on a rotating bearing, which is in particular a sliding bearing; - The operating element has an outer contour that is particularly cylindrical; - The actuating element has a notch, and at the first position of the clamp lever, the area of ​​the guide element or the at least one forward element is within the notch, in particular contact with the wall of the notch, and at the first position of the clamp lever, the at least one forward element is not inclined with respect to the clamp rail; - At the first position of the clamp lever, the wall is oriented perpendicular to the clamp rail; - The wall has a planar configuration, and in particular, the movement of the clamp lever from the first position results in the movement of the wall and an eccentricity with respect to the at least one forward element, thereby tilting the at least one forward element with respect to the clamp rail and displacing the at least one forward element; - The notch has the shape of a circular arc; - The second position of the clamp lever is defined by the at least one forward element contacting the outer contour of the actuating element outside the notch.

[0050] The rotatable support of the actuating element on the rotating bearing provides a stable configuration, and the optimized application of force by the operator is achieved through the operation of the clamp lever.

[0051] The cylindrical outer contour provides a simple way to achieve the locked position of the clamp lever.

[0052] The notch provides a simple method for configuring the actuation element as an eccentric body. This also allows for a simple method of defining a first position by bringing the actuation element into contact with the corresponding wall and allowing the clamp rail to move freely.

[0053] During the transition from the action of the wall of the notch on the actuating element to the cylindrical outer contour, a kind of potential valley can be achieved or a dead point can be reached, particularly to predetermine the second position (blocking position) of the clamp lever.

[0054] Furthermore, it is also advantageous that at least one of the following is provided: - The clamp lever is positioned above the holder in the height direction of the height distance; - When the clamping device is fixed to the plate, the rotation plane of the clamping lever is either parallel to the table plane of the plate or at an acute angle of less than 10° with respect to the table plane.

[0055] This arrangement makes it easier for the operator to operate the clamp lever, particularly to operate the clamp lever at least substantially parallel to the surface of the plate.

[0056] It is particularly advantageous that the guide element is supported by the retainer via at least one spring device. By using the at least one spring device, several different functions can be achieved. For example, the first position of the guide element or clamp lever can be fixed, and the first position can be reached automatically. The spring device can also be used to predetermine the clamping force, if configured accordingly.

[0057] In exemplary embodiments, the first spring device is positioned and configured to hold the guide element and / or forward element in a first position, which is the unclamped position and the clamp rail is freely displaceable, and must overcome the spring force of the first spring device to bring about movement from the first position. This allows for an automatic transition to the first position, particularly when, for example, there is no closed state of the clamp lever. Here, the expression “first spring device” does not mean that multiple spring devices are provided.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the second spring device is positioned and configured such that, at the clamping position, the guide element is supported by the retainer via the second spring device, and tension is applied to the second spring device. Here, the expression “second spring device” should not be understood as a numerical term. It does not necessarily mean that there must be multiple different spring devices. The clamping force applied to the clamping position via the second spring device can be predetermined.

[0059] Therefore, it is advantageous that the spring force of the second spring device is adjustable in a fixable manner, in particular by at least one of the following: - A contact element is provided for the second spring device, and the contact element is positioned on the retainer and is adjustable so as to be fixed in position relative to the retainer; - The clamp rail passes through the contact element; - The contact element is operable from the outside of the holder; - The contact element is configured as a rotating element, particularly as a union nut.

[0060] The clamping force applied to the clamp position can be adjusted by the fixable adjustment acting on the second spring device.

[0061] By providing the aforementioned contact element, the adjustment function can be provided with a simple structure. This particularly provides ease of operation from the outside of the holder.

[0062] In the embodiment, the bolt is installed so as to be fixedly and detachably positioned in the retaining body. This provides the possibility of accommodating different opening sizes using the same basic structure of the clamping device having the retaining body and the guide element. The bolt is replaced accordingly. Then, bolts of different lengths and / or diameters can be used.

[0063] In an advantageous embodiment, an insertion guide is positioned on the retainer, and the bolt has an opposing element relative to the insertion guide. When the opposing element is positioned on the insertion guide, the bolt is held in place relative to the retainer, and in particular, the insertion and retraction directions of the opposing element of the bolt are oriented perpendicular to the displacement axis of the clamp rail relative to the insertion guide. Specifically, the opposing element is configured to contact the plate so that the bolt cannot fall through the corresponding opening. Thus, it is possible to insert the bolt with the opposing element into the opening of the plate and then slide the retainer over it. When the insertion and retraction directions of the opposing element of the bolt relative to the insertion guide are oriented perpendicular to the displacement axis of the clamp rail, the clamping force applied to the workpiece via the clamp rail cannot release the bolt from the retainer.

[0064] For example, the bolt can be fixedly and detachably held in a fixed position relative to the holder via a screw connection.

[0065] In particular, the clamping device comprises a set of bolts, and different bolts are installed to have different diameters and / or different lengths. This provides a method of using the clamping device with the set of bolts for different plates having differently configured openings.

[0066] In an advantageous embodiment, the bolt has at least a first segment and a second segment, and an expansion element is positioned on the guide element, the expansion element being movable in the height direction together with the guide element, and the expansion element is positioned between the first segment and the second segment of the bolt. The expansion element allows the bolt to be expanded and clamped against the opening. This allows for further fixation of the clamping device to the plate. The expansion element is coupled to the guide element in particular so that the expansion process can be performed via the corresponding height mobility of the guide element. This allows for further implementation of clamping of the bolt within the opening by the height mobility of the guide element generating a clamping force.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion element is positioned and formed such that the height movement of the guide element toward the bolt expands the bolt in a direction intersecting the direction of insertion of the bolt into the associated opening in the plate. Thus, in addition to the holding force, it is also possible to achieve expansion and clamping of the bolt into the opening in the plate.

[0068] For example, the clamp lever is connected to the guide element in a fixed relationship with respect to rotation. The guide element can be displaced in the height direction by rotating the clamp lever. Therefore, this also affects the expansion of the bolt.

[0069] In a simple structural embodiment, the guide element is rotatably positioned on the holder by at least one of the following: - The rotation axis of the guide element is perpendicular to the displacement axis of the clamp rail; - The axis of rotation of the guide element is at least substantially parallel to the direction of the height distance; - The axis of rotation of the guide element is at least substantially parallel to the height axis of the bolt; - The axis of rotation of the guide element is at least substantially parallel to the direction in which the bolt is inserted into the opening of the plate.

[0070] This provides a simple method for achieving height displacement of the guide element, particularly by rotating the guide element via a clamp lever.

[0071] In a simple structural embodiment, the guide element is supported by the retainer via threads, particularly trapezoidal threads.

[0072] In particular, the rotational movement of the clamp lever from a first position in which the clamp rail is freely displaceable relative to the guide element, provided that the extension element is installed in such a way that it is fixed in rotation with respect to the clamp lever or the guide element, has the following effects: - The extension element is lowered in the height direction; - Expand the aforementioned bolt; - At least one forward element is tilted relative to the clamp rail; - Advance the at least one forward element, thereby advancing the clamp rail.

[0073] This allows the rotation of the clamp lever to enable a plurality of operations performed in the clamping device, namely the extension of the bolt, the inclination of at least one forward element relative to the clamp rail, and the subsequent advancement of the at least one forward element, thereby lowering the extension element in the height direction, which results in the advancement of the clamp rail.

[0074] It is advantageous that the disc element is positioned on the guide element and / or the clamp lever, the disc element being configured in particular as an eccentric body, acting on and in particular in direct contact with at least one forward element for the clamp rail. This provides a simple method for displacing the clamp rail in the forward direction and preventing backward movement.

[0075] According to the present invention, the object described at the beginning is achieved in the clamping device described at the beginning, wherein the bolt has at least a first segment and a second segment, the clamping lever has an expansion element associated with it which is positioned between the first segment and the second segment of the bolt, and the expansion element is coupled to the clamping lever such that the rotational movement of the clamping lever causes the bolt to expand by the expansion element.

[0076] By rotating the expansion element and / or moving its height, the expansion element moves relative to the bolt so that expansion occurs. This movement of the expansion element is achieved by the clamp lever, which provides a clamping action through rotational motion. In this way, the expansion of the bolt can be achieved, in a sense, automatically in the clamping operation. This allows the bolt to be clamped within the opening of the plate. This improves the fixing of the clamping device to the plate, and consequently, the clamping of the workpiece to the plate.

[0077] In exemplary embodiments, the extension element is supported by the retainer for height movement relative to the height axis. Here, the extension element can also be made rotatable. In principle, the extension element may also be supported by the retainer for rotational movement only.

[0078] In particular, the expansion element is positioned and configured such that the height movement toward the plate results in the expansion of the bolt in a direction intersecting the direction of insertion of the bolt into the associated opening.

[0079] In exemplary embodiments, the extension element is connected to the clamp lever in a fixed relationship with respect to rotation. This forms a simple structure. The mere rotation of the extension element can achieve the extension of the bolt, for example, using a corresponding sliding block guide.

[0080] In particular, the clamp lever is rotatably positioned relative to the holder. This forms a configuration with a simple structure.

[0081] If the clamp lever is supported by the holder via a screw thread, particularly a trapezoidal screw thread, this can provide a simple way to achieve, for example, the additional displacement in the height direction.

[0082] In particular, the rotational movement of the clamp lever from the first position in which the clamp rail can be freely displaced has the following effects: - To move the expansion element by acting on the bolt, for example, to lower the expansion element in the height direction; - Expand the aforementioned bolt; - At least one forward element is tilted relative to the clamp rail; - Advance the at least one forward element, thereby advancing the clamp rail.

[0083] Therefore, the operator can achieve both clamping the workpiece via the clamping device and clamping the bolt to the opening in the plate with a single movement. Here, the expansion element does not necessarily need to be lowered in the height direction for the expansion action to occur. In principle, if it is configured in correspondence with, for example, a sliding block guide, the rotational movement of the expansion element on the bolt alone is sufficient to achieve the expansion of the bolt.

[0084] In this embodiment, a disc element is connected to the clamp lever, which is formed in particular as an eccentric body and acts on at least one forward element for the clamp rail, and in particular makes direct contact with the at least one forward element. This provides a simple way to achieve the inclination of the at least one forward element relative to the clamp rail and the forward movement of the clamp rail via the clamp lever, while backward movement can be prevented at the same time.

[0085] A further object of the present invention is to provide a contact device of the type described first, which can be securely fixed to the plate.

[0086] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved in the contact device described at the beginning, in which the contact element is supported so as to move in height on the retainer, and the height distance of the contact surface to the bolt and / or the retainer is variable with respect to the height axis.

[0087] Due to the height-adjustable nature of the contact element relative to the holder, when a workpiece is clamped between the contact device and the clamping device in the clamped state, the contact device can generate a pressing force toward the plate. This further biases the contact device toward the plate, thereby achieving stable fixation of the contact device toward the plate. This, in turn, provides stable clamping of the workpiece toward the plate.

[0088] In one embodiment, the contact element is rotatable via a pivot bearing, or in an alternative embodiment, the contact element is supported to be displaced in height relative to the retainer via a displacement bearing. This height mobility of the contact element can be achieved to generate a clamping force when it is in a clamped state.

[0089] When a displacement bearing is used, it is advantageous from a structural standpoint that the displacement bearing has at least one elongated hole and that the contact element is supported so as to be displaceable relative to the retainer in a direction transverse to the height axis. In this way, the contact element is formed as a slide, and the slide is displaceable in two directions perpendicular to each other relative to the retainer.

[0090] In an advantageous embodiment, a spring device is provided on which the contact element is supported on the retainer, the spring device having to overcome the spring force of the spring device in order to hold the contact element in a first position and to move the contact element from the first position, where, in particular, the spring force is overcome in the clamping operation by the pressure of the clamping device. The spring device also ensures that the contact element voluntarily returns to its initial position (the first position).

[0091] The fact that the contact element is movable in the height direction is advantageous so that a pressing force acts on the holder and / or the bolt at the height-moved position of the contact element (as opposed to its initial position). This allows a pressing force of the contact element toward the plate to be achieved when clamped, thereby strengthening the fixation of the workpiece to the plate.

[0092] In exemplary embodiments, the contact element has a second (marked) position where the contact element has its maximum height relative to a first position, and the contact surface is closer to the bolt and / or retainer at the second position than at the first position along the height axis. This allows a pressing force to be generated.

[0093] In particular, a contact device is provided that determines the first and / or second positions of the contact elements by contact with the contact elements, and the contact device is arranged or formed on the holder. This allows the maximum range of movement of the contact elements relative to the holder to be defined.

[0094] A further object of the present invention is to provide a method of the type described first, by which a workpiece between the clamping device and the contacting device can be fixed to a plate in a simple and reliable manner.

[0095] This objective is achieved by at least one of the following methods, as described at the beginning: - The first contact area is movable in the height direction relative to the first retainer and / or the first bolt, and a pressing force is generated in the clamping device toward the plate when the at least one workpiece is clamped; - The second contact area is movable in the height direction relative to the second holder, and a pressing force is generated in the contact device toward the plate when the at least one workpiece is clamped; - The first bolt is expandable, and expansion occurs when the at least one workpiece is clamped.

[0096] In particular, the method according to the present invention can be carried out using the clamping device and / or the contact device according to the present invention.

[0097] When one or more workpieces are clamped, a pressing force may be generated in the clamping device and / or the contact device, and this pressing force reinforces the fixation.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, in the clamping operation, the first bolt may be extended and then clamped against the opening in the plate.

[0099] Here, in particular, the clamping of the at least one workpiece between the contact device and the clamping device is actuated via the clamping lever of the clamping device. This achieves simplicity of operation. The clamping rail can be displaced via the clamping lever and biased against the workpiece by the pressure piece of the clamping rail. Here, it is further possible to achieve "synchronous" height movement of the pressure piece via the clamping lever for generating a clamping force, or alternatively or additionally for extending the first bolt.

[0100] The following description of preferred embodiments may be useful in conjunction with the drawings to illustrate the invention in more detail. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0101] Figures 1 to 12 show a first exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention. [Figure 1] This shows a side view of the clamping device, which is shown in the released clamping state. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a top view of the clamping device according to the present invention, as seen from direction A. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows a top view of the clamping device in Figure 1, as seen from direction B in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the clamping device. [Figure 5] This diagram is the same as Figure 1, except for the clamp position. [Figure 6] This diagram is the same as Figure 2, except for the clamp position. [Figure 7] This figure is the same as Figure 3, except for the clamp position. [Figure 8] This figure is the same as Figure 4, except for the clamp position. [Figure 9] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view along line 9-9 (clamp release position). [Figure 10] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 10-10. [Figure 11] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view along line 11-11 (clamp release position). [Figure 12] Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 12-12. Figures 13 to 24 show a second exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention. [Figure 13] This shows a side view of the clamping device, which is shown in the released clamping state. [Figure 14] This shows a top view of the clamping device in Figure 13, as seen from direction A in Figure 13. [Figure 15] Figure 14 shows a top view of the clamping device in Figure 13, as seen from direction B in Figure 14. [Figure 16] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the clamping device. [Figure 17] This figure is the same as Figure 13, except for the clamp position. [Figure 18] This figure is the same as Figure 14, except for the clamp position. [Figure 19] This figure is the same as Figure 15, except for the clamp position. [Figure 20] This figure is the same as Figure 16, except for the clamp position. [Figure 21] Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view along line 21-21 (clamp release position). [Figure 22] Figure 18 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 22-22. [Figure 23] Figure 13 shows a cross-sectional view along line 23-23 (clamp release position). [Figure 24] Figure 17 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 24-24. Figures 25 to 36 show a third exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention. [Figure 25] This shows a side view of the clamping device, which is shown in the released clamping state. [Figure 26] This shows a top view of the clamping device in Figure 25, as seen from direction A in Figure 25. [Figure 27] Figure 26 shows a top view of the clamping device shown in Figure 25, as seen from direction B. [Figure 28] Figure 25 shows a perspective view of the clamping device. [Figure 29] This figure is the same as Figure 25, except for the clamp position. [Figure 30] This figure is the same as Figure 26, except for the clamp position. [Figure 31] This figure is the same as Figure 27, except for the clamp position. [Figure 32] This figure is the same as Figure 28, except for the clamp position. [Figure 33]Figure 26 shows a cross-sectional view along line 33-33 (clamp release position). [Figure 34] Figure 30 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 34-34. [Figure 35] Figure 25 shows a cross-sectional view along line 35-35 (clamp release position). [Figure 36] Figure 29 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 36-36. Figures 37 to 49 show a fourth exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention. [Figure 37] This shows a side view of the clamping device, which is shown in the released clamping state. [Figure 38] This shows a top view of the clamping device in Figure 37, as seen from direction A in Figure 37. [Figure 39] Figure 38 shows a top view of the clamping device shown in Figure 37, as seen from direction B. [Figure 40] Figure 37 shows a perspective view of the clamping device. [Figure 41] This figure is the same as Figure 37, except for the clamp position. [Figure 42] This figure is the same as Figure 38, except for the clamp position. [Figure 43] This figure is the same as Figure 39, except for the clamp position. [Figure 44] This figure is the same as Figure 40, except for the clamp position. [Figure 45] Figure 38 shows a cross-sectional view along line 45-45 (clamp release position). [Figure 46] Figure 38 shows a cross-sectional view along line 46-46 (clamp release position). [Figure 47] Figure 42 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 47-47. [Figure 48] Figure 37 shows a cross-sectional view along line 48-48 (clamp release position). [Figure 49]Figure 41 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 49-49. Figures 50 to 60 show a fifth exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention. [Figure 50] This shows a side view of the clamping device, which is shown in the released clamping state. [Figure 51] This shows a top view of the clamping device in Figure 50, as seen from direction A in Figure 50. [Figure 52] Figure 51 shows a top view of the clamping device in Figure 50, as seen from direction B. [Figure 53] This figure is the same as Figure 50, except for the clamp position. [Figure 54] This figure is the same as Figure 51, except for the clamp position. [Figure 55] This figure is the same as Figure 52, except for the clamp position. [Figure 56] Figure 51 shows a cross-sectional view along line 56-56 (clamp release position). [Figure 57] Figure 54 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 57-57. [Figure 58] Figure 50 shows a cross-sectional view (clamp release position) along line 58-58. [Figure 59] Figure 53 shows a cross-sectional view (clamping position) along line 59-59. [Figure 60] Figure 50 shows a cross-sectional view along line 60-60. Figures 61 to 65 show a first exemplary embodiment of the contact device according to the present invention. [Figure 61] This shows a perspective view of the contact device, which is shown in the released clamp state. [Figure 62] This shows a cross-sectional view along line 62-62 in Figure 61, excluding the initial position. [Figure 63] This shows a cross-sectional view along line 63-63 in Figure 61, excluding the initial position. [Figure 64] This figure is the same as Figure 62, except for the clamp position. [Figure 65]Figure 66 shows the same diagram as Figure 63, except for the clamp position. Figures 66 to 70 show a second exemplary embodiment of the contact device according to the present invention. [Figure 66] This shows a perspective view of the contact device. [Figure 67] This shows a cross-sectional view along line 67-67 in Figure 66, excluding the initial position. [Figure 68] This shows a cross-sectional view along line 68-68 in Figure 66, excluding the initial position. [Figure 69] This figure is the same as Figure 67, except for the clamp position. [Figure 70] This figure is the same as Figure 68, except for the clamping position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0102] The clamping device and contacting device according to the present invention serve to clamp one or more workpieces to a plate 102 provided with an opening 104 (see Figures 4 and 61). The plate 102 is, for example, the tabletop of a multifunctional table (MFT). As described above, the clamping device or contacting device according to the present invention may also be called an MFT clamping device or an MFT contacting device, respectively.

[0103] A first exemplary embodiment of the clamping device 106 according to the present invention is shown in Figures 1 to 12, where Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, and 11 show the unclamped state 108, and Figures 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, and 12 show the clamped state 110. In the clamped state 110, which requires a clamped workpiece, the workpiece is omitted (see Figure 3).

[0104] A clamping device 106 according to a first exemplary embodiment includes a holder 112. The holder 112 forms the base of the clamping device 106. The holder 112 has a lower surface 114. The lower surface 114 functions to contact the plate 102 (see Figure 1). The lower surface 114 has or forms a particularly flat contact surface 115.

[0105] A bolt 116 is positioned on the retainer 112. The bolt 116 protrudes from the lower surface 114 of the retainer 112. The bolt 116 is provided to enter the opening 104 of the plate (see Figure 1).

[0106] When the clamping device 106 is positioned on the plate 102, the bolt 116 enters the associated opening 104. The retainer 112 is positioned with its lower surface 114 in contact with the upper side of the plate 102.

[0107] In particular, the bolt 116 is positioned in the retainer 112 such that its lower surface 114 covers the opening 104, thereby contacting the plate 102 on all sides of the lower surface 114, especially around the bolt 116.

[0108] The retainer 112 has a first end 120 and a second end 122 with respect to the longitudinal axis 118. The bolt 116 is closer to the second end 122 than to the first end 120. In particular, the bolt 116 is not located in the center of the retainer 112 between the first end 120 and the second end 122.

[0109] Between the bolt 116 and the second end 122, the lower surface 114 has a portion 124 that is oriented inclined with respect to the contact surface 115. The portion 124 forms a free space that allows for inclination.

[0110] The clamping device 106 includes a clamping rail 126. The clamping rail 126 is guided to move linearly along the displacement axis 130 on a guide element 128 (see Figures 9 to 12).

[0111] The clamp rail 126 has a fitted profile. This can be, for example, a rectangle with rounded edges, a circle, etc. See DE 10 2007 062 278 for illustrative purposes.

[0112] The guide element 128 is positioned on the holder 112 or is directly or indirectly connected to the holder.

[0113] The clamp rail 126 is guided to slide on the guide element 128. The clamp rail 126 is a sliding rail.

[0114] A pressure piece 132 is positioned in the region at one end of the clamp rail 126. The pressure piece acts on the workpiece to be clamped and is a contact element of the clamping device for the workpiece.

[0115] In exemplary embodiments, the clamp rail 126 is made of a metal material. The pressure piece 132 is made of a plastic material in particular and slides on the clamp rail 126 (see, for example, Figures 9 and 10).

[0116] In principle, it is also possible to form the pressure piece directly on the clamp rail by the corresponding molding of the clamp rail 126 in the corresponding end region of the clamp rail.

[0117] The bolt 116 has a height axis 134. The height axis 134 of the bolt 116 intersects with the lower surface 114 of the retainer 112 and is particularly perpendicular. The retainer 112 has a horizontal axis 136 associated with it. The horizontal axis 136 is in a direction intersecting with the height axis 134 of the bolt 116 and is particularly perpendicular. The contact surface 115 of the lower surface 114 of the retainer 112 is parallel to the horizontal axis 136. The longitudinal axis 118 is parallel to the horizontal axis 136. The horizontal axis 136 extends between the first end 120 and the second end 122.

[0118] When the clamping device 106 is properly positioned relative to the plate 102 with the bolt 116 in the associated opening 104, the horizontal axis 136 is parallel to the plate 102 if the plate 102 is planar.

[0119] The displacement axis 130 of the clamp rail 126 intersects with the height axis 134. In the clamping device 106, the angular position of the displacement axis 130 changes with respect to the height axis 134. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0120] The guide element 128 has multiple spaced-apart openings 138 (see Figures 9 and 10) through which the clamp rail 126 passes and is supported so as to be slidably displaced on the guide element 128.

[0121] The guide element 128 is configured to move in height direction 140, which extends parallel to the height axis 134 of the bolt 116 (and therefore parallel to the axis of the opening 104 of the plate 102 when the clamping device 106 is used properly).

[0122] Such height flexibility allows for variations in the distance of the pressure piece 132 to the bolt 116 and the retainer 112 (see Figures 10 and 9). Correspondingly, the distance of the pressure piece 132 relative to the plate 102 can be varied, as will be described in more detail below. The height distance is parallel to the height axis 134 of the bolt 116. Correspondingly, if the plate 102 is planar, the height distance is also parallel to the normal of the plate 102.

[0123] In the clamping device 106, the height mobility of the guide element 128 is implemented via a rotating bearing 142 on which the guide element 128 is supported on the holder 112. The guide element 128, which provides guidance to the clamp rail 126 via the rotating bearing 142, is configured as a rocker.

[0124] The rotating bearing 142 is connected to the retainer 112 and is spaced apart from the retainer 112 in the height direction 140. The rotating bearing 142 is located on the bridge 144 and is positioned above the retainer 112.

[0125] The clamp rail 126 is positioned between the pivot bearing 142 and the holder 112 with respect to the height direction 140.

[0126] The projection of the rotating bearing 142 in the height direction 140 is either on the bolt 116 or at a distance of 2 cm or less from the bolt 116. This helps to avoid additional tilting moments.

[0127] The pivot shaft 145 of the pivot bearing 142, which allows the guide element 128 to rotate relative to the holder 112 and therefore also relative to the bolt 116, is oriented in a direction intersecting with respect to the displacement axis 130 of the clamp rail 126, and in particular perpendicular to it. Furthermore, the pivot shaft 145 is oriented in a direction intersecting with respect to the height axis 134 or height direction 140, and in particular perpendicular to it.

[0128] In particular, the pivot shaft 145 is oriented at least substantially parallel to the lower surface 114 or contact surface 115 of the holder 112.

[0129] The guide element 128 has two marked positions with respect to its rotatability on the rotating bearing 142, namely a first position 146 (Figures 1 to 4, 9, and 11) and a second position 148 (Figures 5 to 8, 10, and 12).

[0130] In the first position 146, the guide element 128 is in contact with the retainer 112 in the rear region of its lower surface 150. The rotational capability of the guide element 128 toward the retainer 112 is limited by its contact (stopping) with the retainer 112. In the first position 146, the displacement axis 130 of the clamp rail 126 for the displacement capability of the clamp rail 126 on the guide element 128 is parallel to the contact surface 115 of the retainer 112 with respect to the plate 102. Furthermore, the clamp rail 126 is oriented such that its displacement axis 130 is perpendicular to the height axis 134 of the bolt 116.

[0131] At the first position 146 (the first rotational position) of the guide element 128, the clamp rail 126 is freely displaceable on the guide element, as will be described in more detail below.

[0132] At the first position 146, the displacement axis 130 is oriented parallel to the horizontal axis 136.

[0133] In the second rotation position, position 148, the guide element 128 is inclined on the rotation bearing 142 relative to the holder 112 (see Figure 5). The clamp rail 126, along with its displacement axis 130, is at an acute angle 152 with respect to the horizontal axis 136 (see Figure 5). Correspondingly, the same acute angle 152 exists between the displacement axis 130 and the contact surface 115. In the case of the flat plate 102, the displacement axis 130 is also at an acute angle with respect to the plate 102.

[0134] The acute angle 152 is less than 10°, particularly less than 7°, and especially less than 5°. In specific embodiments, the angle is approximately 4.5°.

[0135] Here, the clamping device 106 is dimensioned "small" enough so that the acute angle 152 does not protrude beyond the lower surface 114 of the holder 112 at any position of the clamping rail 126 relative to the guide element 128 with respect to the displacement axis 130. This prevents the clamping rail 126 from colliding with the plate 102 when it is displaced.

[0136] The second position 148 is defined by the forward region 154 of the guide element 128 that is in contact with the holder 112, thereby preventing further rotational movement.

[0137] In principle, the guide element 128 is rotatable between a first position 146 and a second position 148, and the angular position of the clamp rail 126 has its maximum angular position (at an acute angle 152) with respect to the horizontal axis 136 or the contact surface 115 when its displacement axis 130 is at the second position 148.

[0138] A clamp lever 156 is rotatably (rotatably) positioned on the guide element 128. The clamp lever 156 is provided for operator engagement (particularly hand engagement), allowing the operator to apply the clamping force necessary to clamp one or more workpieces to the plate 102 via the clamp lever 156.

[0139] In the clamping device 106, the clamping lever 156 is rotatably positioned on the guide element 128, thereby allowing it to rotate together with the guide element 128 around the pivot axis 145.

[0140] The clamp lever 156 is positioned on the guide element 128 via a pivot bearing 158. The pivot axis 160 of the pivot bearing 158 is oriented in a cross direction. At the first position 146 of the guide element 128, the pivot axis 160 is oriented perpendicular to the horizontal axis 136 and perpendicular to the contact surface 115. It is oriented parallel to the bolt height axis 134.

[0141] When the plate 102 is flat and the clamping device 106 makes precise contact with it, the pivot axis 160 is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the plate 102.

[0142] The rotation of the guide element 128 around the rotating bearing 142 allows the clamp lever 156 to move, so that the pivot axis 160 at the second position 148 is oriented at an acute angle (corresponding to the size of the acute angle 152) with respect to the height axis 134.

[0143] The actuating element 162 is connected to the clamp lever 156 in a rotationally fixed relationship (see Figures 11 and 12). The actuating element 162 is formed as an eccentric element.

[0144] At least one forward element 164 is positioned on the guide element 128. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment of the clamping device 106, a single forward element 164 is shown. In particular, multiple forward elements, such as two or three forward elements, are installed to be used as a forward element package.

[0145] The clamp rail 126 is positioned on at least one forward element 164. The corresponding forward element 164 has an opening 166 through which the clamp rail 126 passes.

[0146] At least one forward element 164 is formed in a plate-like (small plate-like) shape and is made of a metal sheet material in particular.

[0147] At least one forward element 164 is positioned and formed such that, at a particular position (as will be described in more detail below), the clamp rail 126 is freely movable, in particular displaceable, through the opening 166 of the at least one forward element 164. Furthermore, by operating the clamp lever 156, it is possible to tilt the forward element 164 relative to the clamp rail 126 and displace the clamp rail through the at least one forward element 164 in order to achieve the clamp position.

[0148] In this embodiment, the actuation element 162 is formed from a cylindrical shape having a cylindrical outer contour 168. The actuation element 162 is supported on a hollow cylindrical receptacle 170 of the guide element 128. The receptacle 170 forms a rotating bearing, particularly a sliding bearing, for the actuation element 162.

[0149] The actuating element 162 has a cylindrical outer shape and a notch 172. This notch 172 has a circular arc cross-sectional shape (see Figures 11 and 12). When at least one forward element 164 is in the notch 172 (Figure 11), an inclination of at least one forward element 164 relative to the clamp rail 126 can be achieved via the eccentric configuration of the actuating element 162, and forward movement can be achieved. In particular, to achieve a blocked clamp position (Figure 12), at least one forward element 164 can be pulled out of the notch 172 relative to the outer contour 168.

[0150] The notch 172 is bounded by a wall 174, and in particular by a planar wall 174 (Figures 11 and 12).

[0151] The clamp lever 156 has a first position 176 (first rotational position 176), which is shown in Figures 1 to 4, 9, and 11.

[0152] At the first position 176 of the clamp lever 156, the actuation element 162 is positioned such that its wall 174 is perpendicular to the displacement axis of the clamp rail 126 (Figure 11).

[0153] The guide element 128 has an opposing element 178 for the actuating element 162. The opposing element 178 is positioned on the opposite side of the actuating element 162, and the clamp rail is between the actuating element 162 and the opposing element 178 (Figure 11). The opposing element 178 is a contact element for at least one forward element 164.

[0154] At the first position 176, at least one forward element 164 is oriented perpendicular to the clamp rail 126, including the displacement axis 130 (Figure 11). At least one forward element 164 is in contact with the wall 174 of the opposing element 178 and the actuating element 162. This releases the displaceability of the clamp rail 126, allowing it to be freely displaced relative to the guide element 128. For example, an operator can grip the clamp rail 126 with the pressure piece 132 and freely displace the clamp rail 126 forward (with the pressure piece 132 retracting from the holder 112) or backward opposite to the forward direction until it encounters a corresponding stop or the clamp rail is pulled out.

[0155] In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp rail 126 is provided with a stop element that prevents the clamp rail 126 from being completely pulled forward from the guide element 128. In the retraction direction, complete withdrawal is prevented by the pressurizing piece 132 colliding with the guide element 128 or the retainer 112.

[0156] When the clamp lever 156 is rotated starting from the first position 176, the actuating element 162 rotates. Such rotation initially causes a rotational movement of the actuating element 162, which is still in contact with the opposing element 178. This rotation of at least one forward element 164 relative to the clamp rail 126 results in an inclination.

[0157] Due to the eccentric configuration of the actuation element 162 (see Figure 12), further rotation of the clamp lever 156 from the first position 176 causes at least one forward element 164 on the guide element 128 to move forward. This causes the clamp rail 126 to move forward within the displacement axis 130 (see Figure 12).

[0158] The clamp lever has a second position 180 (second rotational position), which is shown in Figures 5 to 8 and Figures 10 and 12.

[0159] The second position 180 is the maximum position and corresponds to the clamped state 110 of the clamping device 106.

[0160] At the second position 180 of the clamp lever 156, at least one forward element 164 is pulled out of the notch 172 and in contact with the outer contour 168 (Figure 12). This causes it to reach a dead center, preventing it from reaching the second position 180. A considerable force is required to release the second position 180, i.e., to return it to the first position 176. This allows the second position 180, and thus the clamped state 110 of the clamping device 106, to be fixed. A self-locking function is provided to prevent it from reaching the second position 180. The self-locking function is achieved by reaching a dead center position ("potential valley") as a result of the transition from contact with the notch 172 (relative to the wall 174) to contact with the outer contour 168.

[0161] In particular, in the guide element 128, a contact 182 for at least one forward element 164 is formed at the second position 180 of the clamp lever 156.

[0162] The clamping of the workpiece to the plate 102 via the clamping device 106 functions as follows:

[0163] A contact device 184, acting as an opposing element to the clamp device 106, is positioned on the plate (see Figure 3). For example, the contact device may have a similar configuration to the clamp device, having a holder and bolts, or it may be a wall fixedly connected to the plate, for example, by screws.

[0164] The workpiece 186 is placed on the contact device 184. At the first position 176 of the clamp lever 156, the pressure piece 132 is pressed against the workpiece 186 by the operator. Next, the operator rotates the clamp lever 156 to the second position 180, starting from the first position 176. Then, as previously described, in this rotational movement of the clamp lever 156, at least one forward element 164 is first tilted and then displaced. This causes the clamp rail 126 to be displaced along it via the tilted at least one forward element 164, and the required clamping force is applied. At the second position 180, the corresponding clamped state 110 is achieved, and the workpiece is clamped against the plate 102 between the contact device 184 and the clamp device 106.

[0165] The height mobility of the pressure piece 132 exists in the height direction 140 relative to the holder 112 and bolt 116, via the configuration of the guide element 128 as a rocker that can rotate on the pivot bearing 142 around the pivot axis 145. Here, the height distance 140 in the height direction between the pressure piece 132 and the holder 112 and the bolt 116 is variable.

[0166] When the workpiece 186 is clamped, the height mobility of the pressure piece 132 in the clamping operation allows the guide element 128 to move with the pressure piece 132 accordingly and bend downward. This then results in a pressing force 188 (Figure 8), which acts toward the plate 102, biasing the holder 112 toward the plate 102 and pushing the bolt 116 into the associated opening 104.

[0167] The downward height movement of the pressure piece 132 toward the holder 112 (plate 102) occurs when the workpiece is clamped. The rotatability of the guide element 128 on the pivot bearing 142 allows the pressure piece 132 (in contact with the workpiece 186) to move toward the plate 102, which in turn generates the clamping force 188.

[0168] This provides a method to prevent the workpiece from being pushed up, or, in extreme cases, even lifted off plate 102.

[0169] The operator is provided with simplicity of operation.

[0170] Figures 5 to 8, 10, and 12 show the clamp state 110 where the position of the maximum acute angle 152 exists. This position is generally reached only when the pressure piece 132 is in contact with the workpiece, but such workpieces are not depicted in the figures above. Furthermore, when the clamp lever 156 is in the second position 180, it is not necessarily required to reach the maximum acute angle 152 in the clamp state 110. An angle smaller than the acute angle 152 can also be reached.

[0171] The clamping device 106 has a housing 190, which is positioned in particular on the guide element 128. The housing 190 is rotatable with the guide element 128 (thus achieving height mobility of the pressurizing piece 132). The housing 190 is closed outwards. In particular, the actuating element 162 and at least one forward element 164 are positioned within the housing 190 and are thus protected.

[0172] When at least one forward element 164 is inclined with respect to the clamp rail 126 and the clamp lever 156 is outside its first position 176, the retraction of the clamp rail 126 toward the retainer 112 is prevented. Forward movement of the pressurizing piece 132 toward the retainer 112 is still possible and can be actuated by acting the clamp lever 156 toward the second position 180.

[0173] A (first) spring device can be provided to ensure that the guide element 128 is biased to its first position 146 such that it must overcome a corresponding spring force in order to move from the first position 146.

[0174] A second exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention is shown in Figures 13 to 24, designated by 192. Here, Figures 13 to 16, 21 and 23 show the unclamped state corresponding to the unclamped state 108. Figures 17 to 20, 22 and 24 show the clamped state corresponding to the clamped state 110.

[0175] The clamping device 192 includes a holder 194 on which a bolt 196 is positioned. Generally, the holder 194 and the holder 112 are functionally identical. The holder 194 has a lower surface 114 that contacts the plate 102. The bolt 196 is provided to enter the corresponding opening 104 in the plate 102.

[0176] The housing 198 is positioned on the retainer 194, or the housing 198 is part of the retainer 194. The guide element 200 is displaceably positioned within the housing 198 (Figures 21 to 44). The guide element 200 is displaceably supported on the displacement bearing 202.

[0177] The displacement bearing 202 allows the guide element 200 to be displaced as a whole in the direction / opposing direction 204 (Figure 13). The clamp rail 206 is displaceably supported on the guide element 202. The clamp rail is supported to be displaceable within the displacement axis 208. The displacement axis 208 is parallel to the horizontal axis 136 (the same reference numerals are used for elements that are also present in the clamping device 106). The horizontal axis 136 is parallel to the contact surface of the retainer 194 with respect to the plate 102. The direction / opposing direction 204 of the linear displaceability of the guide element 200 on the displacement bearing 202 is parallel to the displacement axis 208 (and therefore parallel to the horizontal axis 136). Correspondingly, it intersects with the height axis 134 of the bolt 196, and is in particular perpendicular to it.

[0178] Furthermore, the displacement bearing 202 provides the guide element 200 with the ability to be displaced in height in the direction perpendicular to the opposing direction 210 and in the opposing direction 204 (Figure 13).

[0179] Correspondingly, the guide element 200, and therefore the clamp rail 206, is displaceable in the direction / opposing direction 210, which is the height direction. The height direction is parallel to the height axis 134 of the bolt 196.

[0180] A pressure piece 212 is positioned on the clamp rail 206. The configuration of the displacement bearing 202, which has the ability to be displaced in the direction of the guide element 200 / opposing direction 210, allows the height distance of the pressure piece 212 relative to the holder 194 and bolt 196 to be changed.

[0181] The clamp rail 206 is initially guided to displace on the guide element 200. The guide element 200 itself is configured in the form of a slide and is guided on the housing 198 in the direction / opposing direction 204 and direction / opposing direction 210, in particular, on the holder 194 via a displacement bearing 202.

[0182] In exemplary embodiments, the displacement bearing 202 is formed via a slotted guide 214. In the first exemplary embodiment, the slotted guide 214 comprises a pair of first slotted holes 216a and a pair of second slotted holes 216b, the pairs of which are spaced apart in a direction parallel to the displacement axis 208 of the clamp rail 206. The clamp rail 206 is positioned between each pair of slotted holes.

[0183] In an exemplary embodiment, the first elongated hole 216a and the second elongated hole 216b are located in the housing 198. Each pair of elongated holes is located in the housing on both sides of the housing.

[0184] The first elongated hole 216a and the second elongated hole 216b are oriented obliquely with respect to the horizontal axis 136. They each have a longitudinal axis 218 at an acute angle 220 (equal to) the horizontal axis 136.

[0185] The acute angle is in the range of 10° to 30°. In a specific exemplary embodiment, the angle is approximately 20°.

[0186] In the clamping device 192, the first elongated hole 216a and the second elongated hole 216b have the same configuration. They are arranged parallel to each other at the same height with respect to the lower surface of the holder 194.

[0187] The guide element 200 is equipped with a pin that fits into the associated elongated hole.

[0188] This makes it possible to achieve the effect that, at all positions of the guide element, the clamp rail 206 is positioned with its displacement axis parallel to the horizontal axis 136.

[0189] A clamp lever 222 is positioned on the holder 194. The clamp lever 222 is fixed in translation to the holder. The clamp lever 222 is immovable relative to the holder 194.

[0190] The clamp lever 222 is rotatably positioned on the pivot bearing 224. The pivot axis 226 (see Figure 16) is stationary relative to the holder 194, parallel to the height axis 134, and perpendicular to the horizontal axis 136. The pivot axis 226 is oriented perpendicular to the displacement axis 208 of the clamp rail 206.

[0191] The actuation element 228 is connected to the clamp lever 222 in a fixed relationship with respect to rotation (Figures 23 and 24).

[0192] The actuation element 228 is rotatably positioned on the housing 198 or retainer 194 via a rotary bearing 230, particularly a sliding bearing 230. The actuation element 228 is configured substantially the same as the actuation element 162 and has a corresponding cylindrical outer contour (corresponding to the outer contour 168) and a notch 172.

[0193] The actuating element 228 acts directly on the guide element 200, which is configured in the form of a slide.

[0194] In the first position of the clamp lever (Figures 13 to 16, 21, and 23), the wall 232 of the guide element 200 is in contact with the wall 174 of the actuating element 288. (Therefore, reference numeral 174 is used to refer to this wall of the actuating element 228.)

[0195] A recess 234 is formed in the guide element 200 at a position facing the wall 232 of the guide element 200. The forward element 236 is positioned within the recess. The forward element 236 corresponds to the forward element 164. Multiple forward elements 236, in particular a forward element package, can be provided.

[0196] On the opposite side, an opposing element 238 formed on the guide element 200 is positioned. The clamp rail 206 is positioned between the opposing element 238 and the recess 234.

[0197] The first position of the clamp lever 222 corresponds to the first position 176 in the case of the clamping device 106. The forward element 236 is in contact with the wall 232 and the opposing element 238, and the clamp rail 206 passes through the opening of the forward element 236, where it is freely movable. The clamp rail 206 is freely displaceable along the displacement axis 208 relative to the guide element 200 in the forward / backward direction 240 (Figure 23).

[0198] The actuating element 228 acts directly on the wall 232 of the guide element 200. Next, the guide element 200 acts on the forward element 236 in the recess 234.

[0199] When the clamp lever 222 is rotated to a second position (corresponding to the second position 180 in the case of the clamping device 106), this second position is shown in Figures 17 to 20, 22, and 24. At the start of the rotational movement from the first position, the eccentric actuation element 228 acts on the guide element 200, displacing the guide element away from the rear end 242 of the holder 194 (Figures 23 and 24).

[0200] The direction of displacement is parallel to the displacement axis 208 of the clamp rail 206.

[0201] This increases the distance 244 between the rear end 246 of the guide element 200 and the rear end 242 of the holder 194.

[0202] The rear end 246 of the guide element slides toward the rear end 242 of the holder 194.

[0203] The rear end 242 of the retainer 194 can also be considered as the rear end of the housing 198.

[0204] Starting from the first position, the rotation of the eccentric actuation element 228 causes the forward-moving element 236 to tilt relative to the clamp rail 206 via the forward displacement of the guide element 200. Further rotation of the actuation element 228, which causes the displacement of the guide element 200, also acts on the forward-moving element 236 in the recess 234. The tilted forward-moving element 236 co-moves with the guide element slide 200, displacing the clamp rail 206 forward along the displacement axis 208, increasing the distance of the pressurizing piece 212 relative to the retainer 194 or housing 198.

[0205] Again, in the second position of the clamp lever, the return movement is prevented by the self-locking mechanism, as previously described with reference to the actuation element 162 in the case of the clamping device 106.

[0206] Figure 24 shows the position of the guide element 200 when the clamp lever 222 is in its second position.

[0207] The distance 244 lies between the rear end 246 and the rear end 242 of the retainer 194.

[0208] The forward displacement of the guide element 200 also means a decrease in height parallel to the height axis 134 (see Figures 21 and 22).

[0209] Starting from an upper position 248 (Figure 21), the guide element 200 moves to a lower position 250 (Figure 22) via the displacement bearing 202 in its forward displacement.

[0210] At the lower position 250, the pressurizing piece 212 is closer to the lower surface of the retainer 194 or closer to the bolt 196.

[0211] This generates a clamping force 252 during the clamping operation (see Figure 20).

[0212] In an exemplary embodiment, a first spring device 254 (Figure 23) is provided, through which the guide element 200 is supported by the retainer 194 or housing 198 in a direction away from the rear end 242 of the retainer 194.

[0213] The first spring device 254 is configured to hold the guide element 200 in a first position 256 (Figure 23). The first position 256 exists when the clamp lever 222 is in the first position. When the guide element 200 is in the first position 256, there is an upper position 248 (Figure 21) for the guide element 200.

[0214] The first spring device 254 provides that the guide element 200 is in a first position 256 without the clamp lever 222 being actuated, and that the guide element 200 moves to the first position 256 when the clamp lever 222 moves from a second position.

[0215] To move the guide element 200 from the first position 256, the spring force of the first spring device 254 must be overcome. This is achieved by the operator operating the clamp lever 222 and rotating the clamp lever 222 from its first position.

[0216] In the first position of the clamp lever 222, the clamp rail 206 is freely displaceable both forward and backward on the guide element 200. When the clamp lever 222 is rotated from the first position (thereby also displacing the guide element 200 outward from its upper position 248), the actuation element 228 tilts, allowing only forward displacement of the clamp rail 206, which increases the distance of the pressurizing piece 212 to the holder 194 or housing 198. Reverse displacement of the clamp rail 206 is prevented.

[0217] The clamping device 192 functions as follows:

[0218] The clamping device 192 is fixed to the plate 102 accordingly, and the bolt 196 enters the associated opening 104.

[0219] A corresponding contact device is provided as an opposing element.

[0220] In the first position of the clamp lever 222, the clamp rail 206 is displaced until the pressure piece 212 contacts the corresponding workpiece to be clamped, or until the pressure piece 212 is positioned directly in front of the workpiece.

[0221] In the first position of the clamp lever 222, the guide element (guide element slide 200) is in the upper position 248. The distance from the rear end 246 of the guide element 200 to the rear end 242 of the holder 194 is minimized.

[0222] The clamp lever 222 is rotated from the first position. The guide element 200 is then displaced forward (away from the rear end 242 of the holder 194) by direct contact with the eccentric actuation element 228 (see Figures 21 and 22 and Figures 23 and 24).

[0223] Next, the actuating element 228 is first tilted and displaced relative to the clamp rail 206. This displaces the clamp rail 206 forward, and a corresponding clamping force is applied.

[0224] When the guide element 200 is displaced forward (away from the rear end 242 of the retainer 194), the guide element 200 is also displaced downward in the direction toward the retainer 194 and the bolt 196. This displacement causes the clamp rail 206 to be transported with them and also displaced downward in the direction toward the retainer 194 and the bolt 196. This, in turn, reduces the distance of the pressure piece 212 relative to the retainer 194 and the bolt 116. It also reduces the distance of the pressure piece 212 relative to the plate 102.

[0225] As a result, a pressing force 252 is applied to the clamping device 192 in the direction of the plate 102.

[0226] In particular, when the clamp lever 222 reaches the second position (Figures 22 and 24), it reaches the lower position 250 of the guide element 200 with respect to the height displacement. At the second position, rotational movement of the clamp lever 222 is prevented. To move the clamp lever 222 from its second position, it must overcome the corresponding force.

[0227] In an exemplary embodiment of the clamping device 192, a bolt 196 having a non-solid configuration and a notch 258 is shown (see Figure 15).

[0228] The bolt 196 may be solid, or the bolt 116 of the clamping device 106 may also have a corresponding notch 258.

[0229] A third exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention is shown in Figures 25 to 36, designated by reference numeral 260. Figures 25 to 28, 33, and 35 show the released clamping state corresponding to the released clamping state 108 in the case of the clamping device 106. Figures 29 to 32, 34, and 36 show the clamping state corresponding to the clamping state 110 in the case of the clamping device 106.

[0230] The clamping device 260 includes a holder 262 having a bolt 264, and generally has the same configuration as that described for the clamping device 192.

[0231] A housing 266 is disposed on the holder 262. A guide element 268 (guide element slide 268) is supported displaceably on the holder 262.

[0232] Next, a clamping rail 270 having a pressure piece 272 is supported on the guide element for displacement. The clamping rail 270 has a displacement axis.

[0233] The guide element 268 is supported displaceably via a displacement bearing 274. The displacement bearing 274 includes a long hole guide. In particular, a first long hole 276a and a second long hole 276b are formed in the housing in a facing relationship with each other.

[0234] Corresponding pins are disposed on the guide element 268, and the pins enter the associated long holes 276a and 276b.

[0235] The long holes 276a and 276b are spaced apart from each other in a direction parallel to the displacement axis and are disposed on the holder 262 / housing 266.

[0236] The first long hole 276a and the second long hole 276b have an axis that forms an oblique angle with respect to the height axis 134 of the bolt 264.

[0237] The long holes 276a and 276b are at different heights with respect to the height axis 134 and with respect to the bolt 264 (see FIG. 25).

[0238] Via the displacement bearing 274, the guide element 268 can be displaced in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis 136 / opposite direction 278 (FIG. 28). The guide element 268 can be further displaced in the height direction in a direction perpendicular to the direction / opposite direction 280 and in the direction / opposite direction 278.

[0239] The first elongated hole 276a and the second elongated hole 276b are at the same angular position with respect to the horizontal axis 136, but are offset in height. They are positioned so that when the guide element 268 is displaced on the displacement bearing 274, the clamp rail 270 does not change its orientation with respect to the horizontal axis. In particular, the clamp rail 270 remains parallel to the horizontal axis 136 when the guide element 268 is displaced in the height direction (see Figures 35 and 36).

[0240] The clamping device 260 includes a rotatably positioned clamping lever 282. The clamping lever 282 is rotatably positioned on a guide element and is displaceable together with the guide element in the direction / opposing direction 278 and 280.

[0241] An actuating element 284 (Figures 33 and 34), which is rotatably guided on the guide element 268, is connected to the clamp lever 282 in a fixed relationship with respect to rotation.

[0242] The operating element 284 is configured in the form of an eccentric body.

[0243] The actuation element 284 is configured in substantially the same way as the actuation element 162, and has a cylindrical outer contour and notches.

[0244] A forward element 286 is provided, which has an opening through which the clamp rail 270 passes.

[0245] At the first position of the clamp lever (Figures 25 to 28, 33, and 35), the forward element 286 is positioned so that the clamp rail 270 on the guide element 268 can be freely displaced.

[0246] When the actuating element 284 is rotated in response (by rotating the clamp lever 282 from its first position), the actuating element 284 acts by directly contacting the forward element 286, tilting the forward element relative to the clamp rail 270. Further movement transports the clamp rail with it, moving it particularly in the forward direction (increasing the distance of the pressurizing piece 272 from the housing 266).

[0247] The guide element 268 has an opposing element 288 positioned to contact the forward element 286 (or forward element package). The opposing element 288 faces the actuating element 284. The clamp rail 270 is positioned between the opposing element 288 and the actuating element 284.

[0248] In an exemplary embodiment, a first spring device 290 is provided, supported by the guide element and the forward element 286. The first spring device 290 is responsible for maintaining the first position of the clamp lever 282. It must overcome its spring force.

[0249] The clamping device 260 is provided with a second spring device 292 having one or more springs supported at the opposite ends of the housing 266 and the guide element 268 (Figures 33 and 34).

[0250] In the first position of the clamp lever 282, the guide element 268 is in the first position 294. In the first position 294, the guide element 268 has a first end 296 that is closer to the first end 298 of the housing 266 (Figure 33).

[0251] When the clamp lever 282 is actuated, i.e., released from its first position, the guide element 268 is released from its first position 294. In this process, the first end 296 is displaced away from the first end 298 of the housing 266, thereby being displaced backward (see Figure 33). Meanwhile, the clamp rail 270 is displaced forward in this process of actinguating the clamp lever.

[0252] When the guide element 268 is displaced backward, the guide element is also displaced downward in the vertical direction. As a result, the distance of the pressure piece 272 to the bolt 264 (or plate 102) is shortened.

[0253] The guide element 268 is supported by the housing 266 via a second spring device 292.

[0254] In the forward displacement, the second spring means 292 is compressed (see FIG. 34). The second spring device 292 determines the clamping force applied in the clamped state. The spring force of the second spring device 292 determines the clamping force.

[0255] The clamping device 260 functions as follows:

[0256] The clamping device 260 is fixed to the plate 102 as described above by causing the bolt 264 to enter the associated opening 104 and bringing the holder 262 into contact with the plate 102.

[0257] The clamping lever is in its first position. The clamping rail 270 guided on the guide element 268 is displaced so that the pressure piece 272 contacts or is close to the workpiece to be clamped.

[0258] Next, the clamping lever 282 is rotated from its first position. As a result, the advancing element 286 is tilted. The clamping rail 270 advances. At the same time, the guide element 268 is biased away from the first end 298 of the housing 266 and displaced rearward. Thereby, the second spring device 292 is compressed.

[0259] In the second position of the clamping lever 282, a blocking action is provided and the corresponding clamping position is fixed. The guide element 268 in the second position is supported on the housing 266 via the second spring device 292. Thereby, the spring force of the second spring device 292 determines the clamping force applied.

[0260] When the guide element 268 is displaced in the direction / opposite direction 278, the guide element is also displaced in the height direction in the direction 280 (see FIGS. 35 and 36). The guide element 268 is displaced downward in the direction toward the plate 102 and supports the clamping rail therewith. Thereby, the pressure piece 272 descends in a sense in the direction toward the plate 102.

[0261] A clamping force of 300 is generated (Figure 32), providing better fixation of the workpiece.

[0262] In the case of clamping device 260, the elongated holes 276a and 276b are oriented with respect to the horizontal axis 136 using different symbols than those used in the case of clamping device 192 (see Figures 25 and 13).

[0263] In the case of clamping device 192, the guide element 200 is moved forward during the clamping operation, and in the case of clamping device 260, the guide element 268 is moved backward.

[0264] In the case of the clamping device 260, this backward movement is elastically supported by the second spring device 292.

[0265] A fourth exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention is shown in Figures 37 to 49, designated by reference numeral 302. Figures 37 to 40, 45, 46, and 48 show the unclamped state corresponding to the unclamped state 108. Figures 41 to 44, 47, and 49 show the clamped state corresponding to the clamped state 110.

[0266] The configuration of the clamping device 302 is the same as that of the clamping device 260. The same reference numerals are used to indicate identical elements.

[0267] The clamping device 302 differs from the clamping device 260 in terms of its displacement bearing configuration. A displacement bearing 304 is provided that allows the corresponding guide element 306 to be displaced in the direction / opposing direction 308 and in a direction / opposing direction 310 that extends in a direction intersecting it (Figure 45).

[0268] The displacement bearing 304 has, for example, a first elongated hole 312a in the housing 314 that is in a relationship of opposing each other. Furthermore, a second elongated hole 312b is provided in a relationship of opposing each other and spaced apart from the first elongated hole 312a.

[0269] The first elongated hole 312a has a first axis 316 oriented at an oblique angle with respect to the horizontal axis 136. The second elongated hole 312b has a second axis 318 oriented at an oblique angle with respect to the horizontal axis 136.

[0270] Here, the inclined orientation of the first elongated hole 312a is different from the inclined orientation of the second elongated hole 312b.

[0271] The acute angle at which the first axis 316 inclins with respect to the horizontal axis 136 is different from the acute angle at which the second axis 318 (of the second elongated hole 312b) inclins with respect to the horizontal axis 136. In particular, the acute angle at which the first axis 316 inclins with respect to the horizontal axis 136 is greater than the corresponding acute angle at which the second axis 318 inclins with respect to the horizontal axis 136.

[0272] Here, the second elongated hole 312b having the second shaft 318 is brought into proximity by a corresponding bolt 264 or by a pressure piece 272 on the corresponding clamp rail 270.

[0273] The guide element 306, which guides the clamp rail 270 in a displaceable manner, is configured as a slide that is displaceable in the direction / opposing direction 308 and displaceable in the direction / opposing direction 310 (height direction).

[0274] Due to the different configurations of the elongated holes 312a and 312b, the angular position of the clamp rail 270 with respect to the horizontal axis 136 changes according to the height position of the guide element 306 in the corresponding holder 262.

[0275] In the initial position where the corresponding clamp lever 282 is in the first position, the clamp rail 270 is freely movable relative to the guide element 306, and the clamp rail is positioned such that its displacement axis is parallel to the horizontal axis 136 (Figure 45).

[0276] The rearward displacement of the guide element (see Figure 46) changes the angular position of the clamp rail 270 with respect to the horizontal axis 136. In the extreme case of the second position of the clamp lever 282, the clamp rail 270, together with its pressurizing piece, is at an acute angle 320 with respect to the horizontal axis 136 (Figure 47). The acute angle 320 is particularly less than 10°, preferably less than 7°, and preferably less than 6°.

[0277] The angle is selected so that the pressure piece 272 does not protrude beyond the lower surface of the corresponding retainer 262, in which case the pressure piece may strike, for example, the plate 102.

[0278] Furthermore, the clamping device 302 includes a second spring device 292, which is positioned in substantially the same manner as the second spring device 322 in the clamping device 260. The second spring device 322 of the clamping device 302 is adjustable.

[0279] The contact element 324 is positioned on the holder 262. The contact element is fixedly connected to the holder 262. The contact element 324 is positioned in the rear end region of the holder 262, and its rear end is spaced apart from the pressure piece 272.

[0280] The second spring device 322 is supported by a contact element 324 and a guide element 306, each having one or more springs.

[0281] The position of the contact element 324 is adjustable so as to be fixed. For example, the contact element 324 is screwed into a fixed position on the holder 262 and the housing connected to the holder. The distance of the contact element 324 to the end of the guide element 306 facing the contact element 324 is adjustable via the screw position of the contact element 324 with respect to a first position of the clamp lever 282.

[0282] Correspondingly, in the diagram of Figure 48, which corresponds to the first position of the clamp lever 282, the distance of the contact element 324 to the support side surface 326 is adjustable. The support side surface 326 is opposite to the contact element 324 and is the side surface of the guide element 306 that supports the second spring device 322 on the guide element 306.

[0283] The nut, in particular the union nut 328, is positioned on the retainer 262 or the housing connected to the retainer. The rotational position of the nut on the corresponding threads determines the depth of entry of the contact element 324 into the internal space of the corresponding housing, and therefore the distance between the contact element 324 and the support side surface 326.

[0284] The spring force of the second spring device can be adjusted via the position of the contact element 324, which is predetermined by the rotational position of the nut 328. This spring force determines the magnitude of the clamping force in the clamped state 110 of the clamping device 302. This clamping force can be fixedly varied.

[0285] Otherwise, the clamping device 302 functions in the same way as the clamping device 260. When the workpiece is clamped, the height mobility of the guide element 306, and therefore the height mobility of the clamping rail 270, and therefore the height mobility of the pressure piece 270 against the bolt 264, generates a pressing force 330 (Figure 44), which biases the clamping device 302 against the plate 102.

[0286] A fifth exemplary embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention is shown in Figures 50 to 60, indicated by reference numeral 332. Figures 50 to 52, 56, and 58 show the unclamped state corresponding to the unclamped state 108. Figures 53 to 55, 57, and 59 show the clamped state corresponding to the clamped state 110.

[0287] The clamping device 332 includes a holder 334 on which a bolt 336 is positioned. The bolt 336 protrudes perpendicularly to the holder 334, and the bolt is provided to enter the opening 104 of the plate 102 as described above, and the holder 334 is provided to be supported on the plate 102.

[0288] The bolt 336 is configured in the form of multiple segments (see Figure 60). It includes at least a first segment and a second segment, and these segments are movable relative to each other.

[0289] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment (Figure 60), the bolt 336 includes three segments, namely a first segment 338a, a second segment 338b, and a third segment 338c. The three segments 338a, 338b, and 338c are spaced apart from each other. They are spaced apart with a gap 340 between each of them. The segments 338a, 338b, and 338c are spaced uniformly apart around the perimeter.

[0290] Segments 388a, 338b, and 338c surround a cavity 342. Within the cavity 342 is an expansion element 344 through which forces can be exerted on segments 338a, 338b, and 338c, thereby expanding them. Thanks to the expansion element 344, the diameter 346 of the bolt 336 (see Figures 56 and 57) can be expanded. This allows segments 338a, 338b, and 338c of the bolt 336 to be biased against the wall of the opening 104 to obtain additional force-locking fixation of the bolt 336 within the associated opening 104 when in the clamped state 110.

[0291] A guide element 348 is positioned on the holder 334 (see Figures 56 and 57). Here, the guide element 348 is positioned for rotational motion. The holder 334 is supported via a rotary bearing 350.

[0292] The axis of rotation 352 (Figures 56 and 57) of the rotational capability of the guide element 348 on the holder 334 extends in a direction intersecting, and particularly perpendicular to, the contact surface 354 of the holder 334 with respect to the plate 102. The contact surface 354 defines a horizontal axis 356.

[0293] In exemplary embodiments, the rotary bearing 350 includes threads 358, and in particular includes trapezoidal threads and a sliding bearing.

[0294] The clamp lever 360 is positioned in a rotationally fixed relationship with respect to the guide element 348. The axis of rotation of the clamp lever 360 corresponds to the axis of rotation 352.

[0295] The rotation axis 352 is parallel to the height axis 362 of the bolt 336.

[0296] In particular, when the clamping device 332 is precisely positioned relative to the plate 102, the clamping lever 360 is positioned at least substantially parallel to the plate plane. The rotation axis 352 is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the plate plane.

[0297] The expansion element 344 is positioned within the bolt 336 and between segments 338a, 338b, and 338c in a rotationally fixed relationship with respect to the guide element 348. The expansion element 344 acts on segments 338a, 338b, and 338c, caused by the rotational movement of the expansion element 344 (initiated by the rotational movement of the clamp lever 360, which causes the rotational movement of the guide element 348), so as to expand the bolt 336 and increase its diameter 346. Alternatively or additionally, the expansion element 344 may be positioned and formed so that the bolt 336 expands by acting on segments 338a, 338b, and 338c due to the height movement of the expansion element 344 in response to the height movement of the guide element 348.

[0298] For example, sliding block guides are provided on segments 338a, 338b, and 338c, and one or more elements fixedly connected to an extension element 344 such as a web are guided on the sliding block guides to perform corresponding extensions during rotational movement and / or height movement.

[0299] When the expansion element 344 acts on all segments 338a, 338b, and 338c of the bolt 336, uniform clamping of the corresponding opening 104 is achieved. In principle, the expansion element 344 does not have to act on all segments; for example, if three segments are used, it can act on only one or two segments. This also has the effect of increasing the diameter of the bolt 336 in order to achieve the clamping force on the bolt 336 within the relevant opening 104.

[0300] The clamp rail 366 is displaceably guided on the guide element 348 in the displacement axis 364. The clamp rail 366 has a pressure piece 368 at one end for acting on the workpiece.

[0301] The clamp rail 366 is guided on the guide element 348 so as to be free from the rotational motion of the guide element 348, meaning that it does not rotate with the guide element 348. With respect to height movement on the height axis 362, the fact that the guide element 348 is screw-mounted to the holder 334 means that the clamp rail 366 is guided to move together with the guide element 348 in the height movement.

[0302] Therefore, the guide element 348 allows the clamp rail 366 to move in the height direction parallel to the height axis 362. In particular, at the clamping position, the pressure piece 368 can be brought closer by the bolt 336 or the plate 102. This generates a pressing force that securely fixes the workpiece to the plate 102 by the clamping device 332.

[0303] In particular, with respect to the height axis 362, the clamp rail 366 (and therefore the pressurizing piece 368) is installed such that it is held in a fixed position in a shape-locking relationship with the guide element 348, so that the clamp rail 366 moves in correspondence with the guide element 348 during movement in the height direction (parallel to the height axis 382).

[0304] The retainer 334 comprises a housing 370, or a housing 370 is formed on it. The housing 370 has an internal space 372. A forward element 374 or a forward element package is arranged in the internal space 372. The forward element 374 is positioned on a clamp rail 366. The clamp rail 366 passes through the opening 376 of the forward element 374. The forward element 374 is particularly plate-shaped, and is particularly a sheet metal part. In particular, the forward element package is provided with a plurality of plate-shaped sheet metal parts.

[0305] A disc element (actuating element) 378 is connected to the clamp lever 360 in a fixed relationship with respect to rotation. The disc element 378 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the clamp lever 360. The disc element 378 is configured as an eccentric body.

[0306] The clamp lever 360 has a first position 380 (Figures 50 to 52, 56, and 58), in which the forward element 374 is positioned so that the clamp rail 366 can be freely displaced along the displacement axis 364 (Figures 56 and 58) relative to the guide element 348 and the housing 370. In particular, the forward element 364 is oriented perpendicular to the clamp rail, in a direction intersecting the clamp rail, so that the clamp rail 366 can be freely displaced through the opening 376.

[0307] As the clamp lever 360 moves from its first position, the disc element rotates relative to the holder 334 (and housing 370). The disc element 378, configured in an eccentric form, makes direct contact with the forward element 374. The rotation first tilts the forward element 374 relative to the clamp rail 366. The continued rotation advances the forward element 374, under the condition that it is tilted relative to the clamp rail 366. This causes the clamp rail 366 to be transported along it and move forward via the forward motion of the forward element 374. Here, the backward movement of the pressurizing piece 368 toward the housing 370 is prevented.

[0308] In the corresponding rotational movement of the clamp lever 360 from the first position 380, the clamp rail 366 is then displaced forward (in a direction that increases the distance of the pressurizing piece 368 from the housing 370).

[0309] Simultaneously, the guide element 348 is lowered along the thread 358 on the height axis. The clamp rail 366 is transported together with the clamp rail, and the pressurizing piece 368 is lowered toward the plate 102.

[0310] Furthermore, the extension element 344 also rotates and descends. This affects the extension of bolt 336.

[0311] The clamping device 332 is positioned relative to the plate 102. A bolt 336 enters the opening 104, and the holder 334 contacts the upper side of the plate 102. To initiate the clamping operation, the clamping lever 360 is in a first position 380. The clamping rail 366 is freely displaceable within the displacement axis 364. The user moves the pressure piece 368 relative to the workpiece to be clamped until the pressure piece 368 contacts the workpiece, or until it is just before the workpiece.

[0312] The operator rotates the clamp lever 360 from its first position 380 (see Figures 56, 57 and 58, 59). As a result, the disc element 378 acts on the forward element 374, tilting it and resulting in a forward displacement (parallel to the displacement axis 364) of the forward element 374 and therefore of the clamp rail 366. The pressurizing piece 368 moves away from the housing 370 or generates a pressurizing force.

[0313] Simultaneously, this rotation causes the guide element 348 to descend along the height axis 362, generating a pressing force.

[0314] Furthermore, the bolt 336 is expanded and clamped in place against the corresponding opening 104.

[0315] In particular, a second position for the clamp lever 360 is provided (see Figure 59). When in this position, the clamp lever 360 is blocked.

[0316] The clamping device 332 was described as having its guide element 348 supported to rotate on the holder 334 and supported for height movement. The expansion force for expanding the bolt 336 via the expansion element 344 can be realized through rotational motion and / or height movement.

[0317] In principle, no capacity for height displacement is provided, and for example, the corresponding expansion element can be directly connected to the clamp lever in a fixed relationship with respect to rotation with respect to the associated clamp lever. Then, the rotational movement of the clamp lever leads to expansion of the bolt without additional height displacement by correspondingly guiding the expansion element on the multi-segmented bolt by the sliding block guide.

[0318] The clamping device according to the present invention comprises a holder having a bolt. Here, the bolt can be fixedly connected to the corresponding holder, for example, by being integrally connected thereto, or by being subsequently joined thereto, for example, by welding.

[0319] In exemplary embodiments, the bolt is fixedly and detachably positioned in the retainer. This is described in relation to clamping device 192 (a second exemplary embodiment). However, in principle, this variant can be implemented in all clamping devices according to the present invention.

[0320] The bolts 196 are detachably fixed to the retainer 194. This provides easy replacement of the bolts 196. In particular, a set of different bolts 196 are provided to fit the clamping device 192 to each plate 102 having its opening 104. Here, the different bolts 196 differ in their diameter and / or their length.

[0321] In an exemplary embodiment of the clamping device 102, an insertion guide 386 (see Figures 21 and 22) is positioned on the holder 104. A bolt 196 has an opposing element 388 for the insertion guide 386. The bolt 196 with the opposing element 388 is insertable into the insertion guide 386. Here, the insertion direction 390 is intersecting with respect to the displacement axis 208 of the clamp rail 206, and is particularly perpendicular (see Figure 16). The insertion direction 390 is intersecting with respect to the height axis 134 of the bolt 196, and is particularly perpendicular.

[0322] In particular, a stopper is associated with the insertion guide 386 to prevent the bolt 196 from being "pushed" into the insertion guide 386.

[0323] Preferably, the opposing element 388 has a larger cross-sectional dimension than the bolt 196 and a larger cross-sectional dimension than the opening 102. The bolt 196 can then be inserted into the opening 104, and the opposing element 388 is in contact with the plate area around the opening 104. The bolt cannot penetrate. Once the bolt 196 is inserted into the opening 104, the retainer 194 can slide on the bolt 196.

[0324] Alternatively, the corresponding bolt 196 can be detachably secured to the retainer 194.

[0325] For example, bolt 196 is screw-mounted to retainer 194 and is removable from retainer 194.

[0326] By providing a set of bolts having different diameters and / or lengths, high variability is provided to the corresponding clamping device 192 or other clamping devices that are equipped with bolts that can be fixedly removed.

[0327] One or more workpieces can be clamped to the plate 102 between the clamping device and the opposing element according to the present invention. According to the present invention, a contact device can be provided as the opposing element, thereby applying a pressing force to the contact device during the clamping operation.

[0328] A first exemplary embodiment of the contact device 500 according to the present invention is shown in Figures 61 to 65. Here, Figures 61 to 63 show the basic state (clamp-released state), and Figures 64 and 65 show the clamped state. The workpiece required in the clamped state is omitted from Figures 64 and 65.

[0329] The contact device 500 includes a retainer 502 on which a bolt 504 is positioned. The bolt 504, along with its height axis 506, protrudes from the retainer 502, particularly from the lower surface 508 of the retainer 502, in a cross direction, and especially vertically.

[0330] The lower surface 508 is configured to contact the plate 102.

[0331] Next, the bolt 504 under these conditions enters the corresponding opening 104 of the plate 102.

[0332] The contact element 510 is movably positioned on the holder 502. The contact element 510 has a contact surface 512 for contacting the workpiece. The contact element 510 corresponds to the pressurizing piece of the clamping device according to the present invention.

[0333] The contact element 510 is guided for displacement on the holder 502, where it is guided for displacement in the longitudinal and vertical directions.

[0334] The retainer 502 has a housing 514 or is connected to the housing 514. The internal space 516 is defined by the housing 514. The housing 514 is open on one side, and the contact element 510 has a contact surface 512 protruding from this side.

[0335] The contact element 510 is guided to displace relative to the retainer 502 via a displacement bearing 518. In particular, the displacement bearing 518 is formed in the housing 514.

[0336] In an exemplary embodiment, the displacement bearing 518 includes a slotted guide. For this purpose, a first slotted hole 520a is formed in the housing 514 facing each other, and a second slotted hole 520b is formed spaced apart therefrom and facing each other (Figure 61).

[0337] The first elongated hole 520a and the second elongated hole 520b are spaced apart from each other with respect to the longitudinal axis 522 of the holder 502.

[0338] The corresponding pins are positioned on the contact element 510, and the pins enter the elongated holes 520a and 520b.

[0339] The elongated holes 520a and 520b are oriented at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis 522. For example, they are located at an acute angle of about 30° with respect to the longitudinal axis 522.

[0340] The displacement bearing 518 is configured to allow displacement of the contact element 510 both parallel to the longitudinal axis and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (parallel to the height axis 506) relative to the holder 502.

[0341] The contact element 510 is supported by the retainer 502 via a spring device 524. The spring device 524 is configured to hold the contact element 510 in a first position 526 (Figures 61 to 63). In this first position 526, the contact element 510 has its maximum dimensions along the longitudinal axis 522. The contact element 510 extends to its maximum extent from the corresponding opening of the housing 514. The contact surface 512 is spaced to its maximum extent from the front surface 528 of the housing 514. The opening through which the contact element 510 emerges from the housing 514 is formed in the front surface 528.

[0342] In particular, when the contact element 510 is in the first position 526, it is in contact with the inside 530 of the housing cover 532.

[0343] Furthermore, a contact device 534 is provided in the housing 514 to define the maximum deflection of the contact element 510 parallel to the longitudinal axis 522.

[0344] For example, the contact device 534 is formed by the shoulder portion of the contact element 510 and the corresponding opposing element of the housing 514 (see Figure 63).

[0345] In order to displace the contact element 510 from the first position 526, the spring force of the spring device 524 must be overcome.

[0346] In particular, the spring device 524 comprises one or more springs.

[0347] Starting from the first position 526, as the contact element 510 is further displaced inward within the housing 514 (Figures 64 and 65), the contact element 510 moves in a direction intersecting the height axis 506, and in particular in a direction perpendicular to it 536 (Figure 64). Furthermore, height movement occurs in a direction 538 that is perpendicular to direction 536 and parallel to the height axis 506.

[0348] When the contact element 510 is displaced from the first position 526, the distance of the contact surface 512 to the bolt 504 and therefore to the plate 102 decreases (Figures 64 and 65).

[0349] The contact element 510 has a maximum second position 540 (Figures 64 and 65) where the contact element 510 contacts the bottom 542 of the housing 514. The bottom 542 is on the opposite side of the housing cover 532.

[0350] A contact device is further formed such that the corresponding pin elements contact the elongated holes 520a and 520b on their front surfaces.

[0351] When a workpiece is clamped between the clamping device and the contact device 500 according to the present invention, and when a corresponding clamping force is applied, this results in displacement of the contact element 510. Height displacement is also realized via the displacement bearing 518. The contact element 510 is height-movable relative to the holder 502.

[0352] This height adjustment allows the pressing force 544 to be generated in the contact device 500 in the direction of the plate 102, thus providing better fixation of the workpiece to the plate 102.

[0353] The displacement of the contact element 510 on the displacement bearing 518 is performed directly by the operator or an opposing clamping device. In particular, starting from the first position 526 of the contact element 510, when the contact element 510 is in contact with the workpiece, the clamping force of the clamping device is transmitted thereto through the middle of the workpiece, and the clamping force further displaces the contact element 510 into the housing 514 and displaces the contact element 510 downward within the height axis 506. This, in turn, generates a pressing force 544.

[0354] A second exemplary embodiment of the contact device according to the present invention is shown in Figures 66 to 70, designated by reference numeral 550. Here, Figures 66 to 68 show the unclamped state, and Figures 69 and 70 show the clamped state.

[0355] The contact device 550 includes a holder 552 having a bolt 554 that protrudes therefrom in a transverse direction.

[0356] The bolt 554 is provided to enter the opening 502, and the retainer 552 is provided to contact the plate 102.

[0357] A rotating bearing 556 is positioned in the holder. A contact element 558 having a contact surface for the workpiece is rotatably positioned on the rotating bearing. The pivot axis 560 of the rotating bearing is oriented perpendicular to the height axis of the bolt 554, particularly perpendicular to it.

[0358] The rotating bearing 556 is positioned spaced apart from the bolt 554. In particular, the contact element 558 is positioned between the rotating bearing 556 and the bolt 554.

[0359] A plunger device 562 is displaceably supported by the holder 552. The plunger device 562 has one or more plungers 564. In an exemplary embodiment 550, two plungers are provided, spaced apart in the intersecting direction of the holder 552.

[0360] The plunger 564 comprises a rod 566 and a head 568. The rod 566 is supported on the holder 552 for displacement, particularly sliding displacement. The direction of displacement 570 is intersecting, and in particular perpendicular to, the height axis of the bolt 554. The head of each plunger 564 acts on the contact element 558.

[0361] Each plunger 564 is supported by the holder 552 via a spring device 572.

[0362] In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer 552 includes a linear displacement bearing, and the rod 566 is guided into an opening 576 of the linear displacement bearing 574. The opening 576 is enclosed by a wall 578 in the direction toward the contact element 558. The spring device 572 is supported by the wall 578 and the side of the head 568 opposite to the contact element 558. The side of the head 568 facing the contact element 558 is in contact with the contact element 558.

[0363] The spring device 572 is configured to bias each plunger 564 of the plunger device 562 to a first position 580 of the contact element 558. At the first position 580 of the contact element 558, the contact element 558 is in contact with the holder 552, for example, with the housing of the holder 552.

[0364] In order to move the contact element 558 from the first position, the spring force of the spring device 572 must be overcome (Figures 69 and 70).

[0365] To achieve movement from the first position 580, the contact element 558 is rotated on the pivot bearing 556 about the pivot axis 560 toward the wall 578, and as described above, it must overcome the spring force of the spring device 572 (Figures 69 and 70).

[0366] As a result, the contact surface of the contact element 558 with respect to the workpiece does not protrude significantly beyond the holder 552.

[0367] When the contact element 558 is rotated, its contact surface moves toward the bolt 554. Due to the rotation, the contact element 558 has a height component, i.e., movement parallel to the height axis of the bolt 554.

[0368] When the workpiece is clamped, this moving component parallel to the height axis of the bolt 554 can generate a clamping force 582 that provides better fixation of the workpiece to the plate 102.

[0369] Figures 66 to 68 show the initial position of the contact element 558 before clamping the workpiece. The contact element 558, having a contact surface, is in a first position 580. When the workpiece comes into contact with the contact element and the corresponding pressure is applied, the contact element 558 can rotate toward the bolt 554. This generates a clamping force 582.

[0370] The contact element 558 has a marked second position 584, in which it reaches the maximum rotation angle, starting from the first position 580.

[0371] In principle, the contact device according to the present invention can be installed to include a clamp lever associated with a bolt (not shown in the drawings). In particular, the bolt is configured in a multi-segment form having at least a first segment and a second segment. An expansion element is provided which is connected to the clamp lever and is fixed in a relationship in particular with respect to rotation. The clamp lever is rotatable. By rotating the clamp lever, the bolt can be expanded via the expansion element to provide additional clamping of the bolt to the opening 104.

[0372] According to the present invention, a clamping device and a contacting device are provided, which improve the fixation of one or more workpieces to the plate 102 when a workpiece is clamped, and in particular provide an additional pressing force that prevents the clamping device and the contacting device from lifting up.

[0373] According to the present invention, a workpiece is clamped between a clamping device and a contact device such that a first contact area of ​​the clamping device contacts the workpiece and a second contact area of ​​the contact device contacts the workpiece. The clamp rail, having a pressure piece as the first contact area, is biased against the workpiece via the clamping lever of the clamping device. Due to the height mobility of the pressure piece of the clamp rail relative to the corresponding bolt of the clamping device and / or the height mobility of the contact element of the contact device, a pressing force can be generated in the clamping device and the contact device that biases the clamped workpiece against the plate 102. This pressing force is essentially generated only when the workpiece is clamped.

[0374] Alternatively or additionally, in order to achieve bolt clamping of the plate 102 to the opening 104, the bolts of the clamping device may be installed so as to expand during the clamping operation.

[0375] In the method according to the present invention, the clamping device and the contacting device according to the present invention can be used in combination. In principle, the clamping device or the contacting device can also be used independently. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0376] 102... Plate 104...Aperture 106…Clamping device (first exemplary embodiment) 108... Clamp released state 110... Clamped state 112...Holding body 114…Bottom surface 115…Contact surface 116... Bolts 118... Longitudinal axis 120... First end 122...Second end 124...part 126... Clamp Rail 128... Guidance elements 130...Displacement axis 132...Pressurized piece 134... Height axis 136…Horizontal axis 138...Aperture 140...Height direction 142…Rotating bearing 144...Bridge 145...Rotating shaft 146...First position 148...Second position 150…Bottom surface 152...Acute angle 154...front area 156... Clamp lever 158…Rotating bearing 160... Rotating shaft 162... Actuating elements 164… Forward element 166...Aperture 168…Outer contour 170... Receptacle 172... Notch 174... Wall 176...First position 178…Opposite element 180...Second position 182... Contact point 184…Contact device 186…Workpiece 188... Pressing force 190... Housing 192…Clamping device (second exemplary embodiment) 194...Holding body 196... Bolts 198… Housing 200... Guidance elements 202…Displacement bearings 204... Direction / Opposite Direction 206... Clamp Rail 208...Displacement axis 210... Direction / Opposite direction 212...Pressurized piece 214... Slotted guide 216a...First elongated hole 216b...Second elongated hole 218... Longitudinal axis 220... Acute angle 222... Clamp lever 224...Rotating bearing 226...Rotating shaft 228... Actuating element 230… Rotary bearing 232... Wall 234…recess 236… Forward element 238… Opposing element 240…Forward direction / backward direction 242...rear end 244…distance 246…rear end 248...Upper position 250…Downward position 252... Pressing force 254...First spring device 256...First position 258... Notch 260…Clamping device (third exemplary embodiment) 262...Holding body 264... Volts 266… Housing 268... Guidance element 270... Clamp Rail 272...Pressurized piece 274...Displacement bearings 276a...First elongated hole 276b...Second elongated hole 278... Direction / Opposite direction 280... Direction / Opposite direction 282... Clamp lever 284... Operating elements 286… Forward elements 288… Opposing element 290...First spring device 292...Second spring device 294...First position 296... First end 298... First end 300... Pressing force 302…Clamping device (fourth exemplary embodiment) 304…Displacement bearing 306... Guidance element 308... Direction / Opposite direction 310... Direction / Opposite direction 312a...First elongated hole 312b...Second elongated hole 314… Housing 316...First axis 318... The second axis 320... Acute angle 322...Second spring device 324... Contact elements 326…Support side 328... Nut 330... Pressing force 332…Clamping device (Fifth exemplary embodiment) 334...Holding body 336... Volts 338a...First segment 338b...Second segment 338c... Third segment 340... Gap 342... Cavity 344... Expansion elements 346…Diameter 348... Guidance element 350… Rotary bearing 352... Rotation axis 354…Contact surface 356…Horizontal axis 358... screw thread 360... Clamp lever 362... Height axis 364...Displacement axis 366... ​​Clamp Rail 368...Pressurized piece 370… Housing 372... Interior space 374… Forward elements 376…Aperture 378…Disk elements 380...First position 386… Insertion Guide 388… Opposing element 390... Insertion direction 500... Contact device (first exemplary embodiment) 502...Holding body 504... Bolts 506... Height axis 508…Bottom surface 510... Contact element 512…Contact surface 514… Housing 516...Internal space 518...Displacement bearing 520a...First elongated hole 520b...Second elongated hole 522... Longitudinal axis 524... Spring device 526...First position 528...Front 530... Inside 532... Housing cover 534…Contact device 536…Direction 538...direction 540...Second position 542…Bottom 544... Pressing force 550... Contact device (second exemplary embodiment) 552...Holding body 554... Bolts 556...Rotating bearing 558... Contact element 560... Rotary shaft 562... Plunger device 564... Plunger 566... ​​Rod 568... Head 570...Displacement direction 572... Spring device 574... Linear displacement bearing 576…Aperture 578... Wall 580...First position 582... Pressing force 584...Second position

Claims

1. A clamping device for a plate (102), comprising: a holder (112; 194; 262; 334) on which bolts (116; 196; 264; 336) are positioned to enter an opening (104) in the plate (102); a clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366) that is linearly displaceable relative to the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) along a displacement axis (130; 208); and a pressurizing piece (132; 212; 272; 368) positioned on or formed on the clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366), The clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366) is guided to be linearly displaced on guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348) that are movably supported by the holder (112; 194; 262; 334). The guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348) are supported such that the height distance of the pressurizing piece (132; 212; 272; 368) relative to the bolt (116; 196; 264; 336) and / or the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) depends on the position of the guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348) relative to the holder (112; 194; 262; 334), and the height distance intersects the displacement axis (130; 208) of the clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366), and The guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348) are movable in the height direction relative to the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) so ​​that a pressing force (188) is applied to the workpiece when the clamping device is in a clamped state (110; 252; 300; 330) in which a clamping force is applied to the workpiece. A clamping device characterized by the following.

2. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348) are supported on the holder (112; 212; 272; 368) for height movement on the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) such that the height distance of the pressurizing piece (132; 212; 272; 368) relative to the bolt (116; 196; 264; 336) and / or the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) is smaller in the clamped state (110) when the clamping device exerts a clamping force on the workpiece than in the unclamped state (108) when the clamping device does not exert a clamping force.

3. The bolts (116; 196; 264; 336) extend along the height axis (134), and the height distance is parallel to the height axis (134), and The guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348) are supported on the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) for height movement such that the pressurizing piece (132; 212; 272; 368) has a movable component parallel to the height axis (134). The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized by the above.

4. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348) are supported in a manner that allows them to rotate or displace relative to the holder (112; 194; 262; 334).

5. The clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366) is positioned relative to the bolt (116; 196; 264; 336) and / or relative to the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) via the guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348), - Is it rotatable, or - Is the whole structure displaceable in the height direction?; or - One or more of its parts are displaceable in the height direction. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized by the above.

6. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the angular position of the clamp rail (126) relative to the bolt (116) and / or the holder (112) is variable via the guide elements (128; 306).

7. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide element (128) is rotatably supported on the holder (112) via a rotating bearing (142).

8. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide elements (200; 268; 306) are displaceable in the height direction relative to the holder (194; 262) and are supported so as to be displaceable relative to the holder (194; 262) in a direction that crosses the displacement axis (208) of the clamp rail (206; 270).

9. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that it has displacement bearings (202; 274; 304) that support the guide elements (200; 268; 306) so as to be displaced relative to the holder (194; 262).

10. The clamping device according to claim 9, wherein the displacement bearing (202; 274; 304) has at least one elongated hole (216a, 216b; 276a, 276b; 312a, 312b) through which a pin is guided, and (i) the pin is connected to the guide element (200; 268; 306) in a fixed relationship with the guide element, and the at least one elongated hole (216a, 216b; 276a, 276b; 312a, 312b) is fixed to the holder, or (ii) the pin is fixed to the holder, and the at least one elongated hole is connected to the guide element in a fixed relationship.

11. - The clamp rail (206; 270) is provided with a plurality of elongated holes (216a, 216b; 276a, 276b; 312a, 312b) spaced apart in a direction parallel to the displacement axis (208); - The elongated holes (216a, 216b; 276a, 276b; 312a, 312b) have elongated hole axes (218) positioned at an acute angle (220) with respect to the horizontal axis (136) of the holder (194; 262); - (i) In the case of multiple elongated holes (216a, 216b; 276a, 276b; 312a, 312b), they have the same configuration and the angular position of the clamp rail (206) relative to the bolt (196) does not change when the guide element (200) is displaced in the height direction, or (ii) In the case of multiple elongated holes (312a, 312b), they are arranged and / or formed differently and the angular position of the clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366) relative to the bolt changes when the guide element (306) is displaced in the height direction; - The guide elements (200; 268; 306) have a movement component parallel to the horizontal axis (136) of the holder (194; 262); - The at least one elongated hole (216a, 216b; 276a, 276b; 312a, 312b) is connected to the retainer or is located in a housing (198; 266; 314) which is part of the retainer (194; 262), The clamping device according to claim 10, characterized by at least one of the above.

12. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the retainer (112; 194; 262; 334) has a lower surface (114) with a contact surface (115) for contacting the plate (102), and the bolts (116; 196; 264; 336) extend in a cross direction away from the lower surface (114).

13. The clamping device according to claim 1, further comprising clamp levers (156; 222; 282; 360) that are rotatable relative to the holder (112; 194; 262; 334).

14. The clamping device according to claim 13, characterized in that the clamp levers (156; 282; 360) are positioned on the guide elements (200; 268; 306; 348) and are movable together with the guide elements (200; 268; 348).

15. The clamping device according to claim 13, characterized in that the clamp lever (222) is positioned on the holder (194) and the guide element (200) is movable in the height direction relative to the clamp lever (222).

16. The clamping device according to claim 13, characterized in that the clamp lever (156; 222; 282; 360) has at least a first position (146) in which the displacement motion of the clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366) along the displacement axis is released, and a second position (148) which is a blocking position in which the displacement of the clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366) in the backward direction is prevented.

17. The clamping device according to claim 16, characterized in that, at the second position (148), the movement of the clamp lever (156; 222; 282; 360) from the second position (148) is prevented.

18. The clamping device according to claim 13, characterized in that it has at least one forward element (164; 236; 286; 374) associated with the clamp lever (156; 222; 282; 360) and through which the clamp lever (156; 222; 282; 360) acts on the clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366).

19. The clamping device according to claim 18, characterized in that an actuating element (162; 228; 284; 378) connected to the clamping lever (156; 222; 282; 360) in a fixed relationship with respect to rotation acts on the at least one forward element (164; 236; 286; 374), the actuating element (162; 228; 284; 378) causes the at least one forward element (164; 236; 286; 374) to tilt relative to the clamping rail (126; 206; 270; 366), and causes a longitudinal displacement of the clamping rail (126; 206; 270; 366) in the displacement axis (130; 208).

20. The clamping device according to claim 19, characterized in that the actuating elements (162; 284; 378) act directly on the at least one forward-moving element (164; 286; 374).

21. The clamping device according to claim 19, characterized in that the actuating element (228) acts directly on the guide element (200), the guide element (200) acts directly on the at least one forward element (236), and the actuating element (228) causes longitudinal displacement of the guide element (200).

22. The clamping device according to claim 19, characterized in that the operating elements (162; 284; 378) are configured as eccentric bodies.

23. - The operating elements (162; 284; 378) are rotatably supported on a rotating bearing (230); - The operating element (162; 284; 378) has an outer contour (168); - The actuation element (162; 284; 378) has a notch (172), and at the first position (148) of the clamp lever (156; 222; 282; 360), the area of ​​the guide element (200) or the at least one forward element (164; 286; 374) is within the notch (172), and at the first position of the clamp lever, the at least one forward element (164; 286; 374) is not inclined with respect to the clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366); - At the first position (148) of the clamp lever (156; 222; 282; 360), the wall (174) of the actuation element (162; 284; 378) is oriented perpendicular to the clamp rail (126; 206; 270; 366); - The wall (174) has a planar configuration; - The notch (172) has the shape of a circular arc; - The second position (150) of the clamp lever (156; 222; 282; 360) is defined by the at least one forward element (164; 286; 374) contacting the outer contour (174) of the actuation element (162; 228; 284; 378) outside the notch (172). The clamping device according to claim 19, characterized by at least one of the above.

24. - The clamp levers (156; 222; 282; 360) are positioned above the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) with respect to the height of the height distance; - When the clamping device is fixed to the plate (102), the rotation plane of the clamp lever (156; 222; 282; 360) is parallel to the plate (102) or at an acute angle of less than 10° with respect to the plate (102). The clamping device according to claim 13, characterized by at least one of the above.

25. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide elements (128; 200; 268; 306; 348) are supported by the holder (112; 194; 262; 334) via at least one spring device (284; 290; 292; 372).

26. The first spring device (254; 290) is positioned and configured to hold the guide element (200; 268) and / or forward element (236; 286) in a first position which is the clamp release position (108) and the clamp rail (206; 270) is freely displaceable, and In order to bring about movement from the first position, the spring force of the first spring device (254; 290) must be overcome. The clamping device according to claim 25, characterized by the above.

27. The clamping device according to claim 25, characterized in that the second spring device (292; 322) is arranged and configured such that, at the clamping position (110), the guide element (268) is supported by the holder (194) via the second spring device (292; 322), and tension is applied to the second spring device (292; 322).

28. The clamping device according to claim 27, characterized in that the spring force of the second spring device (322) is adjustable in a fixable manner.

29. The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the bolt (196) is fixed to and detachably arranged on the holder (194).

30. The insertion guide (386) is positioned on the holder (194), and The clamping device according to claim 29, characterized in that the bolt (196) has an opposing element (388) to the insertion guide (386), and when the opposing element (388) is positioned on the insertion guide (386), the bolt (196) is held in a fixed position relative to the holder (194).

31. The clamping device according to claim 29, characterized in that the bolt can be fixed in a fixed position with respect to the holder via a screw connection and is also held in a removable manner.

32. The clamping device according to claim 29, characterized in that the bolt (196) is one of a set of bolts (196) having different diameters and / or different lengths.

33. The bolt (336) has at least a first segment (338a) and a second segment (338b), An extension element (344) is positioned on the guide element (348), and the extension element (344) is movable in the height direction together with the guide element (348), and The extension element (344) is positioned between the first segment (338a) and the second segment (338b) of the bolt (336). The clamping device according to claim 1, characterized by the above.

34. The clamping device according to claim 33, characterized in that the expansion element (344) is arranged and formed such that the height movement of the guide element (348) toward the bolt (336) causes the bolts (116; 196; 264; 336) to expand in a direction intersecting the direction of insertion of the bolts (336) into the associated opening (104) of the plate (102).

35. The clamping device according to claim 33, characterized in that the clamp lever (360) is connected to the guide element (348) in a relationship fixed with respect to rotation.

36. The clamping device according to claim 33, characterized in that the guide element (348) is rotatably arranged on the holder (334).

37. The clamping device according to claim 36, characterized in that the guide element (348) is supported by the holder (334) via a screw thread (358).

38. An extension element (344) is positioned on the guide element (348), and the extension element (344) is connected to the clamp lever (360) or the guide element (348) in a relationship fixed with respect to rotation, and the rotational movement of the clamp lever (360) from a first position (148) in which the clamp rail (366) is freely displaceable with respect to the guide element (348) is - The extension element (344) is lowered in the height direction; - Expand the bolt (336); - Inclining at least one forward element (374) with respect to the clamp rail (366); - Advance the at least one forward element (374), thereby advancing the clamp rail (366), The clamping device according to claim 30, characterized in that it has the effect of having the following effect.

39. The clamping device according to claim 33, further comprising clamp levers (156; 222; 282; 360) rotatable relative to the holders (112; 194; 262; 334), wherein the guide elements (348) and / or the clamp levers (360) are provided with disc elements acting on at least one forward element (374) for the clamp rail (366).

Images