Line guide with support chain for cleanroom applications and support chain for the same
The line guide device addresses the limitations of expandability and wear in existing devices by using a wide support chain with pivotable links, ensuring stability and reduced wear in cleanroom applications.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- KR · KR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- IGUS GMBH
- Filing Date
- 2020-06-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-29
AI Technical Summary
Existing line guide devices for cleanroom applications are limited in expandability in the width direction and often require multiple layers, leading to unwanted abrasive wear between layers.
A support chain with a width greater than the receiving passage dimensions is used, allowing it to support multiple passages and prevent sagging, with chain links having a wide width-to-height ratio and pivotable connections to maintain stability and reduce wear.
The solution provides a stable, expandable line guide device with reduced wear and minimal radius of direction change, suitable for cleanroom environments.
Smart Images
Figure 112022003506855-PCT00003_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technology Field
[0001] The present invention relates particularly to a line guide device for a protected dynamic or active guide of a supply line, such as a cable, hose, etc., between two connecting positions movable relative to each other, for cleanroom applications, wherein the line guide device is displaceable reciprocally by forming a changing arc between two runs. The line guide device is positioned within a run at a position that is substantially straight with respect to the longitudinal direction and within a changing arc at a curved changing position. The changing arc is generally curved in a roughly U-shape around a changing axis extending across the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the changing axis extends parallel to the width direction of the line guide device. Background Technology
[0002] A known line guide device of this type comprises a flexible enclosure for enclosing a supply line, the enclosure comprising a plurality of receiving passages arranged parallel to each other and extending longitudinally for at least one individual supply line. At least one support chain extending longitudinally (L) is provided for stabilizing an unsupported run or for a longer self-supporting length. This can be produced particularly from individual chain links and works with the enclosure to support at least one, in most cases a plurality of, associated receiving passages in a straight position, particularly in a straight position of a self-supporting run.
[0003] Such a line guide device is disclosed, for example, in DE 10 2012 100 359 A1, where there are two support chains laterally outside the enclosure. Each support chain according to DE 10 2012 100 359 A1 is received in an individual external receiving passage on one of the two narrow sides of the enclosure. In this case, the number of receiving passages available between the support chains for the supply line is limited because it is intended or must be prevented that the central part of the enclosure sag excessively (relative to its width).
[0004] Since expansion options in the width direction are not easily possible here, in many cases, a multilayer arrangement, often with three or more layers, is inevitable. This is ultimately disadvantageous in preventing unwanted abrasive wear particles between individual layers. The problem to be solved
[0005] Accordingly, the objective of the present invention is to propose a line guide device, particularly for cleanroom use, that can guide a plurality of supply lines, is relatively easily expandable, especially in the width direction, or can be implemented with a smaller number of layers. means of solving the problem
[0006] In the line guide device according to the classification portion of claim 1, this objective is already achieved in that the proposed support chain forms a support surface and its width is greater than the corresponding dimension of the free cross-section of the associated receiving passage.
[0007] In the device, with respect to the height direction (H) extending across the longitudinal direction (L), the support chain may extend above and / or below the associated receiving passage of the enclosure. The support chain may be provided, for example, on the central longitudinal cross-sectional plane of the particularly supported receiving passage, or the longitudinal cross-sectional plane may be provided so that it passes through the support chain.
[0008] The dimension of the support chain in the width direction (W), that is, the direction extending across the length direction (L) and parallel to the direction change axis (A) (referred to as the width of the support chain in this case), is greater than the corresponding dimension of the associated receiving passage in this case, that is, the width of the associated receiving passage considered in the same direction. Thus, the support chain can support at least one associated receiving passage, in particular at least two or more receiving passages, to prevent sagging in a straight position.
[0009] In other words, in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), the proposed support chain is at least wider than the associated receiving passage for the supply line intended to be supported by the support chain during operation. Thus, according to the present invention, the support chain has significantly larger dimensions in the width direction (W) than in the prior art.
[0010] Accordingly, depending on the width selected for each, the support chain can form a stable support for multiple receiving passages or supply lines (even indirectly through an additional intermediate layer such as an enclosure).
[0011] Apart from this, the present invention also relates to a support chain according to claim 2.
[0012] The support chain can be displaced reciprocally by forming a changing arc between two runs, and within the run it is extended at a position that is substantially straight with respect to the longitudinal direction (L), optionally using prestressing, and within the changing arc it is extended at a changing position or in an arch shape around the changing axis.
[0013] To this end, in the case of a link chain, the support chain includes similar chain links or similar segments in the form of, for example, a belt chain (hereinafter also referred to as chain links or considered synonyms), wherein each of two consecutive chain links is pivotally connected together, particularly around a pivot axis parallel to the direction change axis (A).
[0014] According to the present invention, a support chain forms a support surface, and its width is at least three times greater than the spacing of the support surface from the opposite side of the support chain or run (considered in cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L)).
[0015] In other words, the width of the support surface, that is, the dimension of the support surface in the width direction (W) across the length direction, is at least three times larger than the dimension of the chain link in the height direction perpendicular to the length direction (L) and the width direction (W). Thus, the chain link is a relatively flat or plate-shaped structural configuration in which the structural height (thickness) is significantly smaller than the width of the support surface.
[0016] In this regard, with respect to the chain link under consideration, the effective width or total width of the support surface may be larger than the length (longitudinal dimension) of the support surface.
[0017] Thanks to the appropriate width of the support surface, this configuration provides relatively stable support for multiple receiving passages arranged side by side, while the support chain is relatively lightweight and / or the radius of the change of direction arc is small. On the other hand, the corresponding dimensions of the chain links, which have a relatively large width, also allow for improved lateral stability. That is, the support chain can compensate for or support even relatively large lateral forces traversing the longitudinal direction. This also reduces unwanted wear associated with use involving lateral movement.
[0018] Generally, the support chain has a first contact surface configured to support each other in a straight position to compensate for the sagging of the support chain in a straight position, and a second contact surface configured to support each other in a direction change position to limit the minimum direction change radius of the direction change arc of the support chain. The first and second contact surfaces each have a dimension in the length direction (L) and a dimension in the width direction (W) along the direction change axis (A).
[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the width direction (W) dimension of each first and / or second contact surface is larger than the length direction (L) dimension.
[0020] Chain links (or segments) of a support chain can be connected to each other so as to be pivotable relative to one another, particularly pivotable around a defined pivot axis. For example, in the case of a connection including a bolt received in a receiving mounting part, the pivot axis generally extends parallel to the axis of change of direction, particularly along the axis of symmetry between the bolt and the mounting part (parallel to the width direction (W)). Other types of pivotable connections, such as flexible hinge connectors, are also possible.
[0021] Accordingly, the first and second contact surfaces can restrict pivot movement around the pivot axis in one direction or in the other opposite pivot direction.
[0022] To reduce the load, each chain link may have two or more first contact surfaces to support two adjacent chain links connected within the chain. Correspondingly, each chain link may have two or more second contact surfaces to support two adjacent chain links following the chain link being considered within the chain. Each first or second contact surface does not necessarily have to be flat or continuous and may include, for example, multiple surface portions spaced apart from each other in the width direction.
[0023] The width of the support surface is ultimately greater than the sum of the corresponding dimensions of at least two associated receiving passages, particularly preferably at least three associated receiving passages (width of the free section), so that the support chain can support at least two or three associated receiving passages, thereby preventing the enclosure from sagging in a straight position without sagging or self-supporting. Thus, the width (W) dimension of the support surface in the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction can preferably be greater than the sum of the corresponding dimensions of the free sections of at least two associated receiving passages (in the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction).
[0024] To simplify production and assembly, the support chain is preferably assembled from individual chain links that are structurally identical. The chain links can preferably be manufactured separately from plastic, particularly using an injection molding method, and can be pivotally connected together to form a chain, for example, by connecting or manufacturing hinge connections between the chain links.
[0025] The support chain preferably has multiple chain links, each in the form of a solid body and a single piece. Preferably, each chain link of the support chain is manufactured in the form of a solid body, particularly made of plastic. The advantage of this structure is that the chain links are robust and have high bending rigidity, yet remain simple and easy to manufacture. The low weight of the line guide device is advantageous for the relatively large self-supporting length of the upper run.
[0026] Preferably, the support chain has a plurality of chain links that are each mirror-image symmetric with respect to the longitudinal central plane (perpendicular to the width direction). Preferably, each chain link of the support chain has a mirror-image symmetric configuration with respect to the longitudinal central plane.
[0027] The support chain preferably has a plurality of chain links, each having a plate-like configuration.
[0028] Additionally or alternatively, the width direction (W) dimension of the chain link may be at least 5 times (more than 5 times), preferably more than 8 times, larger than the height direction (H) dimension which is perpendicular to the width direction (W) and perpendicular to the length direction (L).
[0029] Preferably, all chain links of the support chain have a corresponding size ratio. Thus, the support chain can maintain consistency across multiple supply lines while having a wide support surface with low intrinsic weight.
[0030] In a preferred embodiment, at the straight position of the support chain, the surface area of the chain link opposite the second contact surface is positioned at the same height as or aligned with the surface of the next adjacent chain link, resulting in a transition that is as stepless and / or uninterrupted as possible. Correspondingly, at the direction change position of the support chain, an additional surface area of the support chain opposite the first contact surface may be positioned at the same height as or aligned with the surface of the next adjacent chain link in an arc direction. In this way, protruding edges causing wear are prevented, or clamping of the enclosure supported by the support chain and / or additional chain enclosure that may also surround the chain is prevented in this manner.
[0031] Furthermore, the support surface of the chain link preferably has a width greater than the chain pitch of the support chain or the gap between two consecutive pivot axes. In this way, it is possible to achieve a relatively small radius of change despite the wide chain. That is, this allows for a small overall height in relation to the line guide device. In addition, in this way, it is possible to reduce the polygonal effect or for the support chain to form a change arc that is as round as possible or in the shape of a part of a circle. This also reduces the load and unnecessary wear on the supported line, particularly in relation to the supported enclosure.
[0032] The support chain may preferably be in the form of a link chain, but is not necessarily so. In a preferred configuration, the chain links of the support chain are pivotally connected together by receiving mounting parts-bolt connections. In this case, to assemble or connect the chain links together, particularly in the longitudinal direction (L), preferably the bolts are provided with an insertion chamfer and the cooperating mounting parts are provided with an insertion groove. This allows the assembly or mounting of the support chain to be performed manually without special tools.
[0033] Preferably, the support chain has a plurality of chain links, each designed such that the width direction (W) dimension of each chain link is greater than the length direction (L) dimension. Preferably, in this case, each chain link of the support chain has a corresponding configuration or size. Special end members may be provided at the ends to secure the chain links at the connection points, and the structure of the members may vary.
[0034] Preferably, each support chain is surrounded by a flexible self-chaining enclosure made of a particularly flexible elastic plastic, which is provided or produced separately from the enclosure of the supply line. This can prevent the release of wear particles from the support chain itself.
[0035] Preferably, the line enclosure and / or chain enclosure is of a belt-type or hose-type configuration and has at least one functional area extending in the longitudinal direction (L) on at least one of the narrow side or the longitudinal side, in order to dust-proofly close the open state of the enclosure or chain enclosure, in which a supply line or support chain can be inserted into or removed from the receiving passage of the enclosure or chain enclosure across the longitudinal direction (L), on the other hand, to open the enclosure as needed, i.e., to switch the enclosure or chain enclosure back to an open state to replace a defective line. The functional area may include two cooperative profile members of the closure, in particular, which may be in the form of a positive lock and / or forced lock coupling profile.
[0036] Additionally or alternatively, the functional area may have at least one fixed profile for connecting the enclosure and / or chain enclosure to an additional enclosure and / or chain enclosure. This is advantageous in terms of the scalability of the line guide device, which can be extended particularly easily in the width direction (W) in this manner.
[0037] In particular, the line enclosure and also the chain enclosure, distinct from the chain links of the support chain, may be manufactured from flexural elastic plastic. In this case, the length-related bending stiffness of the individual chain links may be higher than, for example, the length-related bending stiffness of the enclosure. The elastic modulus of the chain link material is preferably higher than that of the enclosure material, or it is desirable to use a stronger or stiffer material for the chain links.
[0038] Preferably, the support chain has a plurality of chain links that allow movement by forming the smallest possible travel gap with the end face of an additional chain link pivotably connected adjacent to the first contact surface or the second contact surface in the longitudinal direction (L), each having a convexly rounded guide surface around the bolt and around the mounting portion, respectively. Optionally, when pivoting, both surfaces may form a guide, for example, for additional lateral stabilization. In this case, the end face of the chain link may have a convex or concave area that coincides with the convexly rounded guide surface. Brief explanation of the drawing
[0039] Further details, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description, in which preferred embodiments are described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, without limiting the generality of the foregoing. FIG. 1a shows a side view of an embodiment of a line guide device, and FIG. 1b shows a front view of the line guide device of FIG. 1a, and FIG. 2 shows a front view of a part of an embodiment of a line guide device, and FIG. 3 shows a front view of a partial area of an additional embodiment of a line guide device, and FIG. 4a shows a side view of an embodiment of a chain link of a support chain, and FIG. 4b shows a plan view of the chain link of FIG. 4a, and FIG. 4c shows a perspective view of the chain link of FIG. 4a, and FIG. 5a illustrates a portion of the support chain in a straight position, Figure 5b illustrates a portion of the support chain at the direction change location. Specific details for implementing the invention
[0040] FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an embodiment of a line guide device (1) that guides a supply line (not shown herein) between a fixed connection position (2) of a base and a movable connection position (4) of a generally linearly displaceable entraining means (not shown). The supply line may transmit current, signals, and / or operating media, for example, from a source at the base or connection position (2) to a movable part of a machine to which the entraining means is connected. FIG. 1A illustrates a snapshot of a line guide device (1) having an upper run (8), a lower run (9), and a direction change arc (6), wherein the upper run (8) (right) is in a straight position and an additional longitudinal portion of the line guide device (1) is in a direction change position (left). In the direction change position, the line guide device (1) forms a direction change arc (6) having a predetermined bend or direction change radius around an conceptual direction change axis (A). When operating, the direction change arc (6) moves a certain distance relative to the fixed connection position (2) when the upper run (8) is displaced by the movable connection position (4).
[0041] The line guide device (1) is particularly suitable for cleanroom applications or other applications where the emission of abrasive wear dust and particles must be reduced or prevented. To this end, the line guide device (1) has a long, flexible dustproof enclosure (10) made of flexible plastic that surrounds the supply line along the entire length between the connection positions (2, 4). In this regard, the proposed enclosure (10) includes a plurality of tubular configurations, namely at least two receiving passages, for guiding at least one individual supply line. The two ends of the enclosure (10) are dustproof closed, i.e., dustproof closed with a clamping device (11) as the end connection. The enclosure (10) is hose-shaped as a whole and is sufficiently flexible, particularly due to the appropriate design configuration and / or the appropriate material selection that allows for a reversibly flexible curvature of the changing arc (6) by the application of a low level of force and follows the movement of the movable connection position (4) with minimal resistance. The enclosure (10) can be manufactured particularly by an extrusion method.
[0042] The line guide device (1) further has a support chain (16) extending along the entire length of the line guide device (1) from connection position (2) to connection position (4). In the illustrated example, the support chain (16) is arranged below the enclosure (10) in the upper run (8) region within the direction change arc (6) and correspondingly above the enclosure (10) in the lower run (9) region. The support chain (16) supports the enclosure (10), particularly against sagging due to gravity in the straight position of the upper run (8), and also against buckling in the direction change position. For the aforementioned purpose, the support chain (16) forms a support surface (13) here that serves as a support for the upper run (8). The support chain (16) is a chain link type structure and simultaneously limits the minimum radius of the direction change arc (6). The chain link (18) is pivotally connected to the next chain link (18). The support chain (16) has an associated self-destructing chain enclosure (see FIG. 2 and FIG. 3).
[0043] FIGS. 1a and FIGS. 1b illustrate a two-terminal clamping device (11) having two clamping portions (11a, 11b), and between the two clamping portions (11a, 11b), an enclosure (10) extends around its end with a supply line (not shown) guided inside and is closed by being axially blocked, for example, by a clamping screw. The clamping device (11) may simultaneously provide tension relief for the line (not shown) and may be a self-known structural configuration similar to the teaching of DE 10 2012 100 290 B4 incorporated herein by reference.
[0044] FIGS. 1A and FIGS. 1B further illustrate two end clamping devices (101) each having two clamping parts (101a, 101b) for a chain enclosure of a support chain (16).
[0045] FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 illustrate two different embodiments of a line guide device (1) in front view, with the longitudinal direction extending perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. A clamping device is not illustrated herein. The two embodiments differ significantly in the configuration of the respective enclosures (20, 30).
[0046] FIG. 2 illustrates a line guide device (1) having three interconnected enclosures (20), each having three receiving passages (24). In this example, all enclosures (20) for the line are structurally identical. Each enclosure (20) is of a belt-type configuration and has a respective functional area (28) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) on both sides of the laterally narrow side or on both sides of the longitudinal side. One of the functional areas (28) has two cooperative closing profiles (29) of a closing section for dustproof closing the open state of the enclosure (20), wherein the supply line (22) can be introduced into or removed from the receiving passage (24) of the enclosure across the longitudinal direction (L) through a continuous opening in the longitudinal direction (L) between the closing profiles (29). In the open state of the enclosure (20) (not shown), all receiving passages (24) are open in the example illustrated in FIG. 2. The enclosures (20) of FIG. 2 are each integral. Additionally, each of these enclosures may be a two-part configuration comprising two pairs of closed profiles (29) on both sides of the narrow face or on both sides of the longitudinal face.
[0047] The functional area (28) may also serve to connect the enclosures (20) together, for example, they may have a fixed profile (27) that extends continuously in the longitudinal direction (L) and extends the line guide device (1) in the width direction (W). The functional area (28) of the enclosure (20) is suitable for connecting two enclosures (20) together or for cooperating with the additional functional area (28) of an additional enclosure (20) (and / or chain enclosure, see below) through the fixed profile (27) to extend the number of available receiving passages in the width direction.
[0048] Each enclosure (20) comprises a plurality of enclosure units (21). Each enclosure unit (21) forms the wall of a receiving passage (24) for the protection guide of a supply line (22) and is made of flexible, flexible plastic, particularly a thermoplastic resin, e.g., PE, PU, TPU, PTFE, PP, etc. The enclosure unit (21) has a thin wall relative to the cross-section of the receiving passage (24). Each receiving passage (24) has a uniform cross-section throughout its length, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L). The enclosure unit (21) can be produced inexpensively in an extruded form using a suitable plastic extrusion procedure and can be cut to a suitable length, e.g., about 100 mm to about 1500 mm. The three enclosure units (21) shown in FIG. 2 can be connected together by a material bonding relationship to form an integral enclosure together. However, the enclosure may also be produced as an integral unit. The receiving passages (24) of the flexible enclosure are spatially separated from one another so that no wear occurs between the supply lines (22) guided in parallel within them. The enclosure (22) may also be such a structure (not shown) that allows individual access to each receiving passage, for example, where each enclosure unit (21) has a continuous opening in the longitudinal direction (L) and a closure similar to a closed profile (29).
[0049] The receiving passage (24 or 34) of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3 each has a cross-section that is approximately elliptical, and here resembles an almond shape. Other cross-sectional shapes, such as elliptical, elongated circular, or circular, are also possible.
[0050] Each of the interconnected enclosures (20) is supported by an associated support chain (26), that is, in this example, the support chain (26) forms a support surface (23) for the enclosure (20) or three receiving passages (24). In the upper run (8) (see FIG. 1a and FIG. 1b), the support chain (26) is arranged below the associated enclosure (20) to prevent the enclosure (20) from sagging or being deflected downward by gravity along the line guided within it. Multiple receiving passages (24) are supported by the same support chain (26) because the support chain (26) has a relatively wide cross-section, which is wider than the entire cross-section of the two receiving passages (24) in the associated enclosure (20).
[0051] In the direction change arc (6), the support chain (26) ensures that the bending radius or the radius of the direction change arc is not smaller than the allowable minimum value, thereby preventing the guided supply line (22) from buckling or twisting. Thus, the support chain (26) ensures the minimum bending radius or minimum direction change radius of the line guide device (1) and has a contact portion suitable for the purpose of limiting the pivot angle. In the lower run (9), the support chain (26) is arranged correspondingly below the associated enclosure (20). The opposite arrangement is also possible.
[0052] Depending on the material of each chain link (48), abrasive wear may occur during operation. To minimize the release of wear particles around the support chain (16, 26, 36), the support chain (16, 26, 36) is equipped with a flexible self-chain enclosure (200, 300). The chain enclosure (200, 300) is made of flexible plastic similar to the enclosure (20, 30) of the supply line (22, 32) and has a receiving passage (204, 304) for the support chain (16, 26, 36) extending in the longitudinal direction (L). The width of the free section of the receiving space or passage (204, 304) for the support chain (16, 26, 36) corresponding to the dimensions of the support chain (16, 26, 36) is always greater than the corresponding dimension of the free section of the associated receiving passage (24, 34) of the enclosure for the supply line (22, 23). In the narrow side or longitudinal side, the chain enclosure (200) also has a functional area (208) that extends in the longitudinal direction (L) and has two cooperative closing profiles (209) of the closure for dustproof closing the open state of the chain enclosure (200). The functional area of the chain enclosure (200) is suitable for laterally connecting two chain enclosures (200) together in cooperation with the additional functional area (208) of the additional chain enclosure (200). To this end, the functional area (208) may have a fixed profile (211) that extends continuously in the longitudinal direction (L), for example, the same fixed profile as the fixed profile (27) of the enclosure (20) for the supply line (22). In this way, for example, one or more enclosures (20) may be additionally provided for the supply line (22) between two laterally spaced support chains (26) at the same height direction position. Thus, the line guide device (1) may be extended in the width direction (W).
[0053] FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 illustrate a line guide device having three enclosures (20, 30) for supply lines, each of which is supported by an associated support chain (26, 36). Alternatively, it is also possible to reduce the number of support chains (26, 36) by an enclosure laterally connected between two support chains that are in a self-supporting relationship.
[0054] FIG. 3 illustrates an additional embodiment of a line guide device (1) having three interconnected enclosures (30), each having a receiving passage (34) for three supply lines (32). The difference from the embodiment of FIG. 2 is that the enclosures (30) are composed of individual, separate enclosure units (31). To this end, each enclosure (30) has a functional area (39) along each receiving passage (34), so that on one hand, each receiving passage (34) can be individually opened and closed, and on the other hand, the individual enclosure units (31) can be connected together and separated from each other. This provides greater flexibility compared to the embodiment of FIG. 2, particularly regarding maintenance or subsequent modification of line accessories. The support chain (36) of FIG. 3 is designed based on the principle of the support chain of FIG. 2 and is also equipped with its own chain enclosure (300).
[0055] The fixed profile (207, 307) of the chain enclosure (200, 300) enables expansion in the width direction (W) of the chain enclosure (200, 300) or subsequent modification in width by an additional surrounding support chain (26; 36) (see FIG. 2 and FIG. 3), or by a separate support track between two chain enclosures (200, 300) or an empty chain enclosure (200, 300) for supporting a line or enclosure (20; 30) placed on the upper run above. It is also possible to provide support chains (26; 36) of different widths.
[0056] FIGS. 4a through 4c illustrate in detail embodiments of chain links (48) for support chains (16, 26, 36). The chain links (48) are plate-shaped. The dimensions in the longitudinal direction (L) and the width direction (W) are, in each case, several times (here, about 8 times or 10 times) larger than the dimensions in the height direction (H) (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and the width direction (W)). All chain links (48) of the support chains (16, 26, 36) are preferably structurally identical. The chain links (48) are produced integrally using an injection molding process from a plastic with high strength or bending stiffness, such as fiber-reinforced polyamide. In the illustrated embodiments, the chain links (48) are in the form of a solid body or a monolithic structure, thereby improving the bending stiffness of the chain links (48) and the support chains (16, 26, 36). However, the plastic material of the chain links (48) is relatively lightweight.
[0057] The chain link (48) has a mirror-image symmetric configuration with respect to the longitudinal center plane (see FIG. 4b), and the longitudinal direction (L) and height direction (H) are in the symmetric plane.
[0058] The chain links (48) illustrated in FIGS. 4a through 4c are pivotally connected together by a rotational hinge. The rotational hinge comprises two circular-cylindrical pins (47) of the chain links (48), each of which is rotatably received in a circular-cylindrical receiving means (45) of an additional next adjacent chain link (48). The pivot axis (S) corresponds to the cylindrical axis of each pin (47) or receiving means (45) and extends parallel to the axis (A) of the direction change arc (6) (Fig. 1a). Thus, each chain link (48) has two circular-cylindrical pins (47) and two circular-cylindrical receiving means (45), wherein the axis of symmetry of the pin (47) is spaced in the longitudinal direction (L) by the chain pitch from the axis of symmetry of the receiving means (45) of the same chain link. The dimensions of the pin (47) in the direction of the axis of symmetry or pivot axis (S) or in the width direction (W) are smaller than their diameter, so that the support chain (16, 26, 36) can be assembled more easily. To connect the chain link (48) to the additional chain link (48), the chain links (48) are joined together in the longitudinal direction, particularly without tools or by hand. To make them easier to press and join, each pin (47) has an inclined insertion (47a), where the receiving means (45) each has an insertion groove (45a). The insertion groove (45a) extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction (L), that is, in the direction of the pin (47) of the corresponding chain link (48). The pin (47) of the additional chain link (48) is introduced into the receiving means (45) of the first chain link (48) along the insertion groove (45a) of the first chain link (48).
[0059] To limit the pivot angle, the chain link (48) has two first contact surfaces (41) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (L) at corresponding first contact surfaces (41) of each previous and next chain link (48) for butt joints (e.g., as in the upper run (8), see FIG. 1a) in a straight position of the support chain. Additionally, to limit the pivot angle in another pivot direction, the chain link (48) has two second contact surfaces (42) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (L) at corresponding second contact surfaces (42) of each previous and next chain link (48) and serving to butt joints or contacts (e.g., as in the direction change arc (6), see FIG. 1a) at a direction change position of the support chain.
[0060] The width (W) dimension of each contact surface (41 or 42) is greater than the length (L) dimension of the contact surface (41 and 42). In the illustrated example, for the chain link (48), each of the first contact surfaces (41) is an integral or cohesive structure, where each second contact surface (42) includes two surface portions (42a, 42b) spaced apart from each other in the width (W) direction, more specifically by the width of the first contact surface (41). In this case, the expression "width of the contact surface" is used to indicate the sum of the widths of the surface portions.
[0061] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a short portion of a support chain comprising only two pivotably interconnected chain links (48) as shown in FIGS. 4A through 4C. The chain links (48) are connected together by a receiving means-pin connection, and the pivot axis (S) corresponds to the axis of the pin (47) and the receiving means (45), respectively. In this example, the support surface (43) is formed by the upper surface of the chain link (48) which is external to the direction change axis (A) (see FIG. 1A) at the direction change position (shown in FIG. 5B). The width or width direction (W) dimension of the support surface (43) is significantly larger than the chain pitch, i.e., the length direction (L) spacing between the two consecutive pivot axes (S).
[0062] The chain link (48) is configured such that, opposite the second contact surface (42) in the height direction (H), the surface area (48a) of one chain link (48) in the straight position of the support chain as shown in FIG. 5a ends at the same height or without a step and with a minimal gap as the surface of the other next adjacent chain link (48) when the first contact surface (41) of the two chain links (48) are in a contact relationship. Correspondingly, an additional surface area (48b) of one chain link (48) opposite the first contact surface (41) in the height direction (H), more specifically at the direction change position of the support chain as shown in FIG. 5b, is at the same height or aligned without a step as the surface of the other next adjacent chain link (48) (when the first contact surfaces (41) are in contact with each other). Therefore, during the operation of the line guide device (1), jamming and abrasive wear at the protruding edges are prevented for the enclosure of the supply line (10, 20, 30) supported by the support chain (16, 26, 36), and also for the chain enclosure (200, 300).
[0063] Each chain link (48) has an end surface (49) that defines the boundary of the contact surface (41, 42) of the chain link (48) in the longitudinal direction (L) in the direction of the next chain link. When the chain links (48) pivot relative to each other, the end surface (49) of the chain link is guided past the guide surface (44, 46) of the adjacent chain link (48) or extends past it through a gap that is kept narrow. The first guide surface (44) adjacent to the first contact surface (41) in the longitudinal direction (L) is convexly rounded around the pin (47) with a corresponding radius. The second guide surface (46) adjacent to the second contact surface (42) in the longitudinal direction (L) is convexly rounded around the receiving means (45) with a corresponding radius. The end surface (49) facing each of the guide surfaces (44, 46) may have a correspondingly concave shape. To increase lateral stability, the guide surfaces (44, 46) may cooperate with the opposing end surface (49) in a sliding guide configuration, but a frictionless design configuration is preferred so that the guide surfaces (44, 46) come into contact with the opposing end surface (49) only when there is a high level of lateral load. Explanation of the symbols
[0064] Fig. 1a; Fig. 1b: 1 line guide device 2 fixed connection positions 4 operating connection positions 6 Change of direction 8 upper run 9 lower run 10 Enclosures for Supply Lines 11 Clamping device for supply line enclosure 11a, 11b Clamping part 13 Support surface 16 support chains 18 chain links 101 Clamping device for a chain enclosure 101a, 101b Clamping section L length direction H height direction Fig. 2; Fig. 3: 20; 30 supply line enclosure 21; 31 Enclosure unit of the enclosure 22; 32 supply lines 23; 33 Support surface 24; 34 receiving passage for supply lines 26; 36 support chain 27; 37 Fixing profile of enclosure for supply line 28; 38 Functional areas of enclosures for supply lines 29; 39 Closure profile of an enclosure for a supply line 200; 300 chain enclosure 204; 304 Receiving passage for support chain 207; 307 Fixed profile of chain enclosure 208; 308 Functional Areas of Chain Enclosures 209; 309 Closed profile of a chain enclosure W width direction H height direction Figs. 4a, 4b, 4c; Figs. 5a, 5b; 41 First contact surface 42 Second contact surface 42a, 42b Surface portion of the second contact surface 43 Support surface 44, 46 Guide surface of chain link 45 means of reception 45a Insertion groove 47 pins 47a Inclined insert 48 chain links 49 End surface of a chain link 48a Surface area opposite the second contact surface 48b Surface region opposite the first contact surface A direction change axis L length direction W width direction H height direction S pivot axis
Claims
Claim 1 At least one is a line guide device (1) for protecting and guiding a supply line, such as a cable, hose, etc., between two connection positions (2, 4) that are movable relative to the other, wherein the line guide device (1) is reciprocally displaceable by forming two runs (8, 9) and a changing arc (6) between the runs (8, 9), wherein the line guide device (1) within the runs (8, 9) is in a straight position with respect to its length direction (L) and in a curved changing position within the changing arc, and the line guide device (1) is a flexible enclosure (10; 20; 30) for surrounding a supply line (22; 32) having a plurality of receiving passages (24; 34) arranged side by side for at least one individual supply line (22; 32), wherein the receiving passages (24, 34) extend in the length direction (L) and the flexible enclosure (10; 20; 30) has at least one associated receiving passage (24) in the straight position; A line guide device (1) comprising at least one support chain (16; 26; 36) including individual chain links (18; 48) that cooperate with the enclosure (10; 20; 30) for supporting 34); wherein at the direction change position, the support chain is curved about a direction change axis (A), and the support chain (16; 26; 36) forms a support surface (13; 23; 33; 43), and the width thereof is greater than the corresponding dimension of the free cross-section of the associated receiving passage (24; 34). Claim 2 A support chain (16; 26; 36) for a line guide device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the support chain (16; 26; 36) is displaceable in a reciprocating manner by forming two runs and a direction-changing arc between the runs, and the support chain (16, 26, 36) within the run is in a straight position with respect to its length direction (L) and extends from a direction-changing position within the direction-changing arc. - At the direction change position, the support chain is curved about the direction change axis (A), and each of the two consecutive chain links (18; 48) includes a chain link (18; 48) that is pivotally connected together, and the support chain (16; 26; 36) forms a support surface (13; 23; 33; 43), and the width thereof is at least three times the spacing of the support surface (13; 23; 33; 43) with respect to the opposite side of the support chain (16, 26, 36). Claim 3 A line guide device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the support chain (16; 26; 36) has a first contact surface (41) that supports each other at the straight position and a second contact surface (42) that supports each other at the direction change position, and the first contact surface (41) and the second contact surface (42) each have a dimension in the length direction (L) and a dimension in the width direction (W) parallel to the direction change axis (A), wherein the width direction (W) dimension of each contact surface (41, 42) is larger than the length direction (L) dimension of each contact surface (41, 42). Claim 4 In paragraph 2, the support chain (16; 26; 36) has a first contact surface (41) that supports each other at the straight position and a second contact surface (42) that supports each other at the direction change position, wherein the first contact surface (41) and the second contact surface (42) each have a dimension in the length direction (L) and a dimension in the width direction (W) parallel to the direction change axis (A), and the support chain (16; 26; 36) is characterized in that the width direction (W) dimension of each contact surface (41, 42) is larger than the length direction (L) dimension of each contact surface (41, 42). Claim 5 A line guide device (1) according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that the width of the support surface (13; 23; 33; 43) is greater than the sum of the corresponding dimensions of the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) of at least two associated receiving passages (24; 34). Claim 6 In claim 2 or 4, the support chain (16; 26; 36) is characterized by being composed of structurally identical individual chain links (18; 48). Claim 7 In claim 2 or 4, the support chain (16; 26; 36) is characterized by having a plurality of chain links (18; 48) that are each integral and in the form of a solid body or a single body. Claim 8 A line guide device (1) according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the support chain (16; 26; 36) is characterized by having a plurality of chain links (18; 48) that are each integral and in the form of a solid body or a single body. Claim 9 A line guide device (1) characterized in that, in paragraph 3, the support chain (16; 26; 36) each has a plurality of chain links (18; 48) which are plate-shaped, and the width direction (W) dimension of each chain link (18; 48) is at least 5 times larger than the height direction (H) dimension which is perpendicular to the width direction (W) and perpendicular to the length direction (L). Claim 10 In claim 4, the surface area (48a) of the chain link (18; 48) opposite the second contact surface (42) at the straight position of the support chain (16; 26; 36) is at the same height as the surface of the next adjacent chain link (18, 48), and the additional surface area (48b) of the chain link (18, 48) opposite the first contact surface (41) at the direction change position of the support chain (16, 26, 36) is at the same height as the surface of the next adjacent chain link (18, 48). Claim 11 A line guide device (1) characterized in that, in paragraph 3, the surface area (48a) of the chain link (18; 48) opposite the second contact surface (42) at the straight position of the support chain (16; 26; 36) is at the same height as the surface of the next adjacent chain link (18, 48), and the additional surface area (48b) of the chain link (18, 48) opposite the first contact surface (41) at the direction change position of the support chain (16, 26, 36) is at the same height as the surface of the next adjacent chain link (18, 48). Claim 12 In claim 2 or 4, the support surface (13; 23; 33; 43) is characterized by having a width greater than the chain pitch of the support chain (16; 26; 36). Claim 13 A line guide device (1) according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that the support surface (13; 23; 33; 43) has a width greater than the chain pitch of the support chain (16; 26; 36). Claim 14 In claim 2 or 4, the chain links (18; 48) of the support chain (16; 26; 36) are pivotally connected together by a receiving means-pin connection part, characterized in that the support chain (16; 26; 36). Claim 15 A line guide device (1) according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the chain links (18; 48) of the support chains (16; 26; 36) are pivotally connected together by a receiving means-pin connection. Claim 16 In claim 2 or 4, the support chain (16; 26; 36) is characterized by having a plurality of chain links (18; 48) each designed such that the width direction (W) dimension of each chain link (18; 48) is greater than the length direction (L) dimension. Claim 17 A line guide device (1) according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the support chain (16; 26; 36) is surrounded by a flexible self-chaining enclosure (200; 300). Claim 18 A line guide device (1) characterized in that, in claim 17, the enclosure (10; 20; 30) and / or the chain enclosure (200; 300) is of a belt-type configuration and has at least one functional area (28, 38, 208, 308) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) on at least one of its narrow sides, for dustproof closing of the open state of the enclosure (10, 20, 30) or chain enclosure (200, 300) through which a supply line (22, 32) or a support chain (26, 36) can be inserted or removed across the longitudinal direction, and also for switching the enclosure (10, 20, 30) or chain enclosure (200, 300) to the open state. Claim 19 A line guide device (1) characterized in that, in claim 18, the functional area (28; 38; 208; 308) comprises two cooperative closing profiles (29; 39; 209; 309) of a closing portion that is a positive lock and / or forced lock combined profile. Claim 20 A line guide device (1) characterized in that, in claim 18, the functional area (28, 38, 208, 308) has a fixed profile (27, 37, 207, 307) for connecting the enclosure (10, 20, 30) and / or the chain enclosure (200; 300) to an additional enclosure (10; 20; 30) and / or the chain enclosure (200; 300). Claim 21 A line guide device (1) according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the enclosure (10; 20; 30) is made of a bendable elastic plastic, and the elastic modulus of the plastic of the chain link (18; 48) of the support chain (16, 26, 36) is higher than the elastic modulus of the plastic of the enclosure (10; 20; 30). Claim 22 In claim 2 or 4, the support chain (16; 26; 36) is characterized by having a plurality of chain links (18; 48) each having a convex guide surface (47a, 45a) and forming a minimum movement gap by both end surfaces (49). Claim 23 A line guide device (1) according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the support chain (16; 26; 36) has a plurality of chain links (18; 48) each having a convex guide surface (47a, 45a) and forming a minimum movement gap by means of both end surfaces (49).