Split bar for internal splitting of energy guide chain

Abstract

The present invention relates to a split bar (20; 30; 90; 120) for an energy guide chain comprising a plate-shaped body (13; 33; 93; 123) having two narrow sides extending in the height direction between two main sides and two end regions. At least one of the end regions (16a, 16b) is adjusted for releaseable fixation to a transverse bar (12). A plurality of retaining grooves for retaining a plate-shaped shelf (19) are provided on the main sides (15, 95, 125). According to the present invention, each retaining groove (19) is a continuous configuration from one narrow side (17; 97; 127) to another narrow side, and has an insertion opening (170) in each narrow side (17; 97, 127) through which a shelf (18) can be introduced into each retaining groove (19) and removed from the retaining groove in both opposing assembly directions. The above-mentioned split bars (20; 30; 90; 120) further include a fixing device for fixing the mounted shelf (18) against unwanted displacement in both assembly directions and against unwanted release from each retaining groove (19).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of energy guide chains for guiding lines, such as cables or hoses, for example. An energy guide chain typically serves to guide a supply line for power, data, or media between a connection and a connection that is movable to it at a movable point of consumption. An energy guide chain typically comprises a plurality of pivotably interconnected chain links.

[0002] The present invention relates particularly to a so-called dividing bar or separating bar for a chain link of an energy guide chain. Background Technology

[0003] At least one part of the chain link consists of two side plates or side parts each positioned outwardly in lateral directions, and at least one transverse bar, commonly referred to as a transverse member, which keeps the side plates parallel. The transverse bar or bars may be connected to the side plates either fixedly or releaseably (so-called open bar). When considered in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the energy guide chain, the side plates and transverse bar define the receiving space of the chain link. Thus, the chain links jointly form a guide passage that is continuous in the longitudinal direction and receives the line.

[0004] In applications involving multiple guide lines, it is advantageous to subdivide the receiving space or guide passage into separate regions, that is, to provide the so-called internal division of the energy guide chain. In this way, friction between lines caused by the relative movement of different radii of curvature or direction-changing arcs can be reduced or prevented. Essentially, lines having significantly different diameters must be separated and guided from one another. The internal division of the energy guide chain also allows for a long-lasting arrangement for weight distribution in the case of lines of different weights.

[0005] Internal divisions particularly prevent unwanted movement of the line, for example, rotational movement in the guide passage (so-called “corkscrews”) or displacement of one line over another line, which can cause the hose to be crushed, for example, by heavy electrical lines.

[0006] A separating bar or dividing bar is provided for vertical subdivision, that is, to divide the width of the receiving space. This bar extends substantially parallel to the side plate and is mounted on the transverse bar overall. A separating bar for the link of an energy guide chain is described, for example, in the applicant’s German Utility Model DE 299 07 443 U1 or German Patent Application DE 43 13 242 A1.

[0007] Horizontal division, that is, horizontal division for subdividing the usable height of a receiving space, is influenced by the provision of so-called compartment shelves (also referred to as support shelves, insert shelves, etc.), similar to a rung. These shelves can serve as supports for lines. These shelves extend parallel to the transverse bars, that is, substantially perpendicular to the side plates, and are generally mounted on the dividing bars or separating bars. Compartment shelves are described in patent EP 0 343 192 B1.

[0008] The term "dividing bar" is used herein to denote a special separating bar having means for installing a plurality of holders for shelves or shelves on at least one side, preferably both sides. Thus, the dividing bar essentially provides various possible options for optionally installing shelves in the internal space.

[0009] A proven structure for a splitting bar that allows for finely classified height-direction splitting by a shelf is also shown in the applicant’s EP 0 343 192 B1. EP 0 343 192 B1 discloses a splitting bar having a plate-shaped body having upper and lower end regions for releaseably securing to a transverse bar, two wide main sides, and two opposing narrow sides extending height-direction between the end regions. A plurality of retaining grooves extending substantially perpendicularly to the height-direction are provided on both main sides. A plate-shaped shelf can be inserted into and retained in each retaining groove for the corresponding end, whereby a tongue is formed that cooperates with the retaining groove in a manner of tongue-and-groove connection at the end.

[0010] These dividing bars allow for finely segmented divisions in the height direction. Due to the smaller spacing between the retaining grooves, reduced modular dimensions for the selective positioning of shelves are possible compared to continuous receiving openings or apertures for shelves.

[0011] Basically, for mounting operations, easy handling and mounting of components for internal partitioning with the minimum possible time and effort are desirable. The separated areas of the internal partitioning of the receiving space should also be easily accessible for maintenance purposes, such as line replacement, which generally require the disassembly of shelves. Likewise, if necessary, for example, if subdivision is implemented later, it is desirable that the partitioning be easily modified. In previously known structures for internal partitioning, there is still a need for improvement regarding ease of handling or user-friendliness. The problem to be solved

[0012] Taking the technical state described above as its basic starting point, the first objective of the present invention is to propose a structure for internal division, in particular a dividing bar further developed for that purpose that simplifies handling during assembly and maintenance or is more user-friendly. means of solving the problem

[0013] This is achieved by the split bar according to paragraph 1, the chain link according to paragraph 14, and the energy guide chain according to paragraph 15.

[0014] According to the present invention, in a split bar or separator bar as presented in the classification portion of claim 1, it is proposed that at least some and preferably all retaining grooves are a continuous structure from one narrow side to another, and each has an insertion opening on each narrow side. Thus, a shelf can be selectively inserted into each retaining groove through the corresponding insertion opening from both sides of the chain or from both sides, in both (movement) directions and thus in one of two opposing assembly directions, and can also be removed in this manner. Furthermore, according to the present invention, the split bar is provided with a fixing device or fixing mechanism that secures the mounted shelf or shelves from unwanted displacement in both assembly directions and thus from unwanted release from each retaining groove.

[0015] Since the user no longer needs to pay attention to any specific assembly or disassembly direction of the shelves, accessibility to the retaining grooves in both opposing directions during the insertion and removal of the shelves actually provides a significant advantage and improves user-friendliness. Alternate operation in both directions is also possible, which can be advantageous with respect to multiple shelves arranged in a mutually overlapping relationship. Regarding the fixing device, there are different possible options, particularly options that can be operated with the application of a low level of force.

[0016] The insertion and removal of the shelf into and from each retention groove can be affected, in particular, by translational insertion and withdrawal perpendicular to the longitudinal or height direction of the energy guide chain.

[0017] For this purpose, in most retaining grooves, preferably, the proposed split bar in each retaining groove has a first insertion opening on the narrow side and a second insertion opening on the opposite, other narrow side, that is, the retaining grooves are accessible or open on both sides. This can be provided for all retaining grooves, particularly on both main sides. With two insertion openings, each retaining groove is opened substantially along the length of the energy guide chain and thus is open on both sides. The retaining grooves retain the ends of the corresponding configurations of the shelf in a direction perpendicular to the main body. The retaining grooves preferably extend perpendicular to the height direction and parallel to the main plane between the two main sides of the main body. The retaining grooves may be in the form of recesses, particularly on the main sides, and their cross-section perpendicular to the main plane allows for a secure locking action, particularly in a tongue-and-groove connection manner, for example, in a dovetail shape or a T-shape.

[0018] Depending on the respective structural height, the narrow side may form the long side of the main side, and the longitudinal region represents the short side. The terms regarding the directions of “height” and “width” refer to the receiving space, and in this case, indicate the direction of the cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the energy guide chain. In this case, horizontal refers to the width direction of the receiving space and vertical refers to the height direction of the receiving space, regardless of the actual spatial orientation of the chain links in each case. The terms “up” and “down” should also not be interpreted in an absolute sense, but are interpreted, for example, in relation to the arrangement in space and are interchangeable in that respect. The terms “parallel” and “perpendicular” should be interpreted technically rather than strictly geometrically in this case. A slight deviation from geometric parallelism by a smaller angular amount is also considered parallel.

[0019] To prevent the application of force to secure the shelves in a forced locking relationship, in a preferred embodiment, the fixing device has a locking slider and locking elements that are displaceable in the height direction between a locking position and an unlocking position within the receiving means of the main body, wherein each locking element is associated with a retaining groove. In this regard, each locking element is displaceable into an associated retaining groove to ensure cooperation with the shelf, particularly with the end recess on the shelf. Preferably, all required locking elements are provided on the same locking slider so that a plurality of locking elements corresponding to the total number of retaining grooves are provided.

[0020] In this case, each locking element preferably cooperates with the shelf recess, which acts as a catch for locking, as a locking or blocking element.

[0021] It is possible to provide locking sliders for the retaining groove on both main sides, for example, centrally, locking sliders for the retaining groove on each main side, or locking sliders for both main sides, each including a common locking slider to lock the end of the shelf, for example, also on both narrow sides. Thus, the fixing device may substantially include a locking slider positioned centrally in the main body. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a common central locking slider for the retaining groove is provided on both main sides. In this case, the plate-shaped main body may preferably include two plate parts manufactured in the same structure or the same part shape, which each form a plurality of continuous retaining grooves on the outer side and a recess for the locking slider on the inner side. The plate parts may be connected together by suitable connecting elements, for example, they may be latched together by conjugate connecting elements or they may be secured to each other by snap connectors, etc.

[0022] To further simplify operation, the locking slider may have at least one operating projection protruding from a narrow side of the main body to allow for easier operation by hand, similar to a slider button, etc. Preferably, operability on both sides is also achieved here by a locking slider having two opposing, preferably symmetrically operating projections protruding from each of the narrow sides of the main body. In this case, the operating projection may form a slider button on one side.

[0023] The locking slider is preferably integral with the locking element and optionally with the operating protrusion.

[0024] In an additional embodiment, the fixing device includes two locking sliders. The locking sliders may be displaceable in the height direction within the receiving means of the main body between a locking position and an unlocking position, and may have locking elements corresponding, for example, to the number of retaining grooves. Preferably, the locking elements are connected to the retaining grooves and are displaceable within the retaining grooves to ensure cooperation with the shelf, for example, with the end recess. In this embodiment, the main body may have two receiving means that are displaced vertically in the height direction for each locking slider. In that case, one of the two receiving means and the locking slider mounted on the receiving means may be provided on each main side.

[0025] In all embodiments having a locking slider or sliders, it is advantageous if each locking slider in the unlocking position protrudes in the height direction along with a longitudinal projection from the upper or lower end region of the body. This makes it possible to ensure that the locking slider is displaced to the locking position by the closing of the transverse bar, that is, that the shelf is secured against unwanted release in the closed state of the transverse bar and chain link. Since unlocking is possible only when the transverse bar is open, this also prevents or blocks unwanted unlocking when the chain link is closed (transverse bar is mounted / closed on both sides). Preferably, the locking slider is configured to have an appropriate structural height and can protrude alternately with the longitudinal projection beyond the upper and lower end regions depending on the opening of each transverse bar (inner radius or outer radius).

[0026] However, the suitable locking device does not necessarily have to be in the form of a locking array having a slider. In an alternative configuration that is structurally simpler, the locking device may have a cooperative latching element. This may, for example, have a retaining groove and / or a cooperative latching recess and / or latching protrusion in the end region of the shelf that engages within the retaining groove. In this case, at least one latching recess and / or latching protrusion is preferably provided in each retaining groove for latching cooperation with a corresponding conjugate end latching element on the shelf. Additionally or alternatively, it is also possible to consider an elastic latching tongue, preferably at the end of the shelf, as a latching element. This may cooperate with, for example, the corresponding latching edge of the latching recess at the boundary surface of the latching groove. In particular, to lock or secure the shelf against unwanted release in the longitudinal direction, for example, it is possible to provide each elastic latching tongue or elastic latching hook that works with each latching edge at the boundary surface of the latching groove in a manner such as a barb and does not operate upon insertion, on both sides of the end area of ​​the shelf that engages with the latching groove.

[0027] To provide a rigid and secure locking action in the horizontal direction or perpendicular to the main plane, the retaining grooves on both sides each have a T-shaped cross section perpendicular to the main plane to cooperate with the corresponding protrusion at the end of the shelf to retain the shelf. As an alternative to the T-shaped cross section, it is also possible to provide a cross section such as a dovetail shape.

[0028] Preferably, the retaining grooves extend parallel to one another and continuously perpendicularly in the height direction from one narrow side to the other. The retaining grooves are preferably provided on each main side in pairs facing away from each other at the same height, but are not necessarily so. A so-called side portion for supporting the side plate, that is, a portion having a groove on only one side, is considered herein to be a split bar.

[0029] Preferably, both end regions of the main body have a fixing device for releaseable fixation by forced-locking and / or secure locking connection with the upper and lower transverse bars. In that case, at least one end region, and preferably both end regions, may be in the form of a latching foot for latching engagement with a known type of transverse bar.

[0030] Preferably, the main body is configured in a mirror-image symmetry with respect to its height-direction central plane so that the longitudinal regions are interchangeable at the top and bottom and their orientation is not a significant consideration in terms of assembly.

[0031] Due to equal operability on both sides, this array preferably provides symmetrical characteristics with respect to the dividing bar.

[0032] Preferably, the main body is configured in a mirror-image symmetrical manner with respect to the main plane, which is particularly advantageous if a common slider or locking element is used on both main sides. Alternatively, if, for example, a dedicated slider or locking element is provided on each main side, the main body may be configured in an axially symmetrical manner with respect to its height-direction central axis.

[0033] The present invention is particularly advantageous with respect to finely classified internal divisions having a relatively large number of shelf positions, namely, at least five retaining grooves are provided on each main side, thus providing many options. In particular, when using a locking slider, in this case, all inserted shelves can be locked and unlocked simultaneously by a single operation.

[0034] For further ease, it may be provided that the two insertion openings of each retaining groove each have opposing longitudinal beveled inserts or rounded inserts. These beveled inserts or rounded inserts may be provided in a paired relationship in a mirror-image symmetrical arrangement, particularly on both sides and with respect to the longitudinal axis of the retaining groove.

[0035] The present invention also relates to a chain link for an energy guide chain comprising two side plates and at least one transverse bar connecting the side plates to define a receiving space for a line, wherein the chain link has two or more dividing bars according to the present invention and at least one shelf each maintained at both ends by said dividing bars. The present invention also relates to an energy guide chain comprising a plurality of chain links, wherein at least each second chain link has a dividing bar according to the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a component kit for internal division of a chain link for an energy guide chain comprising at least two dividing bars and at least one corresponding shelf according to the present invention, and finally, to the use of the dividing bar according to the present invention for internal division in an energy guide chain. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0036] Further details, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, by way of example, with reference to the attached drawings, which are entirely illustrative: Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a chain link of an energy guide chain according to an embodiment. Figures 2a and 2b show the chain link of Figure 1 as a front view (Figure 2a) and a cross-sectional view (Figure 2b). FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of a split bar according to the first embodiment. Figures 4a and 4b show the shelf as a top view (Fig. 4a) and a front view (Fig. 4b). FIGS. 5A and FIGS. 5B are side views illustrating the dividing bar of FIG. 3, and the locking slider is in the unlocking position ( FIG. 5A) and the locking position ( FIG. 5B). Figures 6a and 6b show detailed views of Figures 5a (Figure 6a) and 5b (Figure 6b). FIGS. 7A and FIGS. 7B show the split bar of FIG. 3 having a locking slider in a locking position with an inserted shelf, as a front view ( FIG. 7A) and a cross-sectional view along AF ( FIG. 7B). FIGS. 8A and FIGS. 8B show the split bar of FIG. 3 having a locking slider in the unlocking position (Fig. 8A) and the locking position (Fig. 8B). FIGS. 9A and FIGS. 9B show another second embodiment of a split bar having two locking sliders in an unlocking position (Fig. 9A) and a locking position (Fig. 9B). FIGS. 10a to 10c show the body of the dividing bar of FIGS. 9a and 9b ( FIG. 10a), the locking slider of the dividing bar of FIG. 9a and 9b ( FIG. 10b), and a shelf matching the dividing bar of FIG. 9a and 9b. FIGS. 11a to 11c show a detailed view of the dividing bar of FIG. 9a (Fig. 11a) and FIG. 9b (Fig. 11a), and a partial view of the dividing bar having an inserted shelf in a cross-section along the main plane of the shelf (Fig. 11c). FIGS. 12a and FIG. 12b show a perspective view of another third embodiment of a dividing bar ( FIG. 12a) and a corresponding shelf ( FIG. 12b). FIGS. 13a and FIGS. 13b show a detailed view of the dividing bar of FIG. 12a ( FIG. 13a) and a partial view of the dividing bar having an inserted shelf in a cross-section along the main plane of the shelf ( FIG. 13b). Specific details for implementing the invention

[0037] FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2a respectively show an exploded view and a front view of an internal structure as an example of a chain link (10) of an energy guide chain (1) for actively guiding a line such as, for example, a cable and a hose (not shown). A plurality of chain links (10) are pivotally connected together to form an energy guide chain (1) in a longitudinal direction (L) perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 2a. The longitudinal direction (L) corresponds to the longitudinal range of the guided line. Here, the chain link (10) is composed of individual parts and has at least two side plates (11). In each chain link (10), or for example, each second chain link (10), the side plates (11) are fixedly connected in a box configuration by two parallel identical transverse bars (12) as shown in FIG. 2a, and are also spaced apart in the transverse direction (Q) of the chain link (10) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and are parallel to each other.

[0038] In the illustrated example, the transverse bars (12) are releaseable (referred to as open bars). For this purpose, the transverse bars (12) are releasedly or pivotably fixed to the side plate (11) by means of a clamping receiving means in the horm (110) of the side plate (11) (shown in FIG. 1) by means of a longitudinal fixing area. The transverse bars (12) of the chain link (10) are spaced apart from each other in the height direction (H). The height direction (H) extends perpendicular to the length direction (L) and perpendicular to the transverse direction (Q). The side plate (11) and the transverse bars (12) define a receiving space (14) for the line to be guided. Thus, both transverse bars (12) may be in the form of open bars to allow access to the receiving space (14) in an open state.

[0039] The energy guide chain (1) consists of a plurality of chain links (10) pivotably connected together in the longitudinal direction (L). When guiding a line between two connection positions that are movable relative to each other, the energy guide chain (1) can form an upper run, a lower run, and a portion between them, a curved portion around a direction-changing axis, a direction-changing arc. The structure of the energy guide chain (1) is known in itself and may also be any desired structure having, for example, crank-type side plates constituting the side plates (11) or alternating inner and outer plates. In particular, a two-part chain link is also considered, in which the two side plates (11) and the transverse bar (12) are made from one part, i.e., integrally, and only the other (invisible) transverse bar (12) is releaseable.

[0040] For internal division, as shown as an example in FIG. 2a, it is known to provide a vertical dividing bar (20) for dividing the receiving space (14) in the transverse direction (Q) and a horizontal shelf (18) for dividing the receiving space (14) in the height direction (H).

[0041] The split bar (20) typically has a plate-shaped or flat body (13) having a main plane, and this body extends in the longitudinal direction (L) and in the height direction (H) parallel to the side plate (11) in the state of the split bar (12) assembled in a manner suitable to the chain link (10). The shelf (18) is also in a plate-shaped configuration and extends parallel to the transverse bar (12) in the state assembled in a manner suitable to the chain link (10). To provide a receiving space (14) for guiding a neatly arranged and better protected line in a compartment or division (140) that is maintained identically, the split bar (20) and shelf (18) may be provided in the same arrangement for each nth chain link (10), particularly for each second chain link (10). The example of FIG. 2a is a simplified form here merely as an example, and typically additional split bars (20) and additional shelves (18) are provided.

[0042] In the height direction (H), the split bar (20) has two end regions (16a, 16b) each having a fixing device, wherein each has a clip-like latching foot (160), and can also be fixed to the end (23) of the transverse bar (12) in the transverse direction (Q) or in the longitudinal direction (L) at a position selectable, for example by a latching connection, at at least one of the end regions (16a, 16b). The transverse bar (12) may have a toothed bar, as shown in FIG. 1, to cooperate with the latching foot (160) of the split bar (20) along its end (23). In any case, the transverse bar (12) is fixed in the longitudinal direction (L) of the chain link (10) or in the width direction of the transverse bar (12).

[0043] The shelf (18) is mounted on the dividing bar (20) in a selectable step with respect to the height direction (H). In this regard, FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2a show, as an example, only one shelf (18) dividing a portion of the receiving space (14) between two dividing bars (20).

[0044] The main body (13) of the split bar (20) has two main sides (15) that are oriented apart from each other and extend parallel to the main plane, and two narrow sides (17) that are oriented apart from each other and extend perpendicularly to the main sides (15) in the height direction (H) from the upper end area (16a) to the lower end area (16b). The main body (13) has a plurality of retaining grooves (19) of the same configuration on its main sides (15) to accommodate a shelf (18). The retaining grooves (19) extend parallel to each other and continuously from one narrow side (17) to another narrow side perpendicular to the height direction (H). In each narrow side (17), each retaining groove (19) opens into a respective insertion opening (170). Accordingly, the correspondingly profiled end of the shelf (18) can be inserted into each retaining groove (19) from each narrow side (17), that is, along the longitudinal direction (L) in each of the two assembly directions, and can also be removed from it in the same way.

[0045] FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of a first embodiment of a split bar (30). To secure the shelf (18) from unwanted displacement in the longitudinal direction (L) and unintended release from the retaining groove (19), the split bar (30) has a fixing device having a locking slider (31).

[0046] The dividing bar (30) is mirror-image symmetric in the main plane (see WW in FIG. 2a) and has a body (33) composed of two identical plate parts (33a). Each of the plate parts (33a) is also symmetric with respect to the height direction center plane perpendicular to the main plane. Additionally, each of the two structurally identical plate parts (33a) is point-symmetric with respect to a center axis that extends as a dashed line in FIG. 3 through the center of symmetry of the two plate parts (33a).

[0047] The plate portion (33a) has an outer side (35) that forms one of the main side (15) and the retaining groove (19) of the main body, and an inner side (36) that faces away from the outer side (35) and has a latching protrusion (37a) and a corresponding recess (37b) as a connecting element for latching to the second plate portion (33a) to form the main body (33). Additionally, the inner side (36) has a cross-shaped recess (32). When the two plate portions (33a) are assembled to form the main body (33), the recess (32) forms a receiving means (34) for the locking slider (31) so that the locking slider (31) can be centrally received in the main body (33).

[0048] The locking slider (31) is mounted in the receiving means (34) of the split bar (30) so as to be displaceable in the height direction (H) between the locking position and the unlocking position. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the locking slider (31) is a cross-shaped configuration having a vertical bar (311) extending in the height direction (H) and a horizontal bar (312) perpendicular to the vertical bar (311). In this case, the terms vertical and horizontal refer to the appropriate operating positions of the locking slider (31) in the chain link (10), where “vertically” means following the height direction (H) and “horizontally” means following the length direction (L). The spatial orientation may vary depending on the respective positions of the chain link or energy guide chain.

[0049] At both ends of the horizontal bar (312), the locking slider (31) has each ergonomically formed operating protrusion (38) for manual displacement of the locking slider (31) between the unlocking position and the locking position. When the locking slider (31) is mounted between the two plate portions (33a) of the main body (33), the two operating protrusions each protrude from the narrow side (17) of the main body (33). For this purpose, the recess (32) is also cross-shaped and open at the narrow side (17).

[0050] On both sides, the vertical bar (311) has a row of locking elements (39) in the form of block-shaped protrusions, and the number of locking elements corresponds to the number of retaining grooves (19) on each main side. The locking elements (19) protrude in a direction perpendicular to the main plane and are arranged at the same vertical grid spacing as the retaining grooves (19). The locking slider (31) is produced in the form of an integral injection-molded member with the locking elements (39).

[0051] When the locking slider (31) is in the locking position, the locking element (39) extends into each retaining groove (19) and can be positioned approximately centrally in the groove.

[0052] FIGS. 4a and 4b show a shelf (18) in a plate-like elongated configuration, with extensions located transversely (Q) between the end sections (48). In the end section drawing of FIG. 4b, each end section (48) extends in the longitudinal direction (L) and has a respective end section protrusion (48a) complementary to the profile of the retaining groove (19), which is T-shaped in the illustrated example, for insertion of the end section (48) into the retaining groove (19). Another, for example, dovetail-shaped profiles of the retaining groove (19) and the end section (48) of the shelf (18) are also possible. With this profile, the inserted shelf (18) is secured transversely (Q) perpendicular to the main plane of the split bar (30).

[0053] In order to secure the shelf (18) in the longitudinal direction (L), that is, in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove (19), each end of the shelf (18) has a respective opening (46) to work with a respective associated locking element (39). For insertion of the end (48) of the shelf (18) into the retaining groove (19), the locking slider (31) must be in an unlocked position. When the end (48) of the shelf (18) is received into the retaining groove (19), the locking slider (31) can be displaced to its locking position, in which the locking element (39) extends into the retaining groove (19) and engages with the end opening (46) of the shelf (18). At that position, the shelf (18) is fixed or secured to the split bar (30) in the longitudinal direction (L), and cannot be displaced or can only be displaced slightly along the retaining groove (19).

[0054] FIGS. 5a and 5b (and FIGS. 6a and 6b, each showing a portion in enlarged scale) show a split bar (30) having a locking slide (31) in an unlocking position (Fig. 5a, FIG. 6a) and a locking position (Fig. 5b, FIG. 6b) in a side view along the longitudinal direction (L). The retaining groove (19) is free in the unlocking position for insertion of the shelf (18), whereas in the locking position, the retaining groove (19) is blocked by an associated locking element (39).

[0055] FIG. 7a shows a side view along the longitudinal direction (L), illustrating a split bar (30) having a shelf (18) inserted into a retaining groove (19) and a locking slider (31) in a locking position. FIG. 7b shows a cross-section through the main plane of the shelf (18) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) and the transverse direction (Q). It is best understood from the combined consideration of FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b that the shelf (18) is secured on one side by the T-shaped profile of the retaining groove (19) to prevent displacement in the height direction (H) and transverse direction (Q), and on the other side by a secure locking connection between the opening (46) of the shelf (18) and the associated locking element (39) of the locking slider (31) to prevent displacement in the longitudinal direction (L).

[0056] The locking slider (31) is a point-symmetric and mirror-image-symmetric configuration having three separate symmetric planes. In this way, it can secure the shelf (18) to both sides of the split bar (30) and unlock in both directions along the vertical. This is particularly advantageous in the case of a chain link (10) where both transverse bars (12) are in the form of open bars. If necessary, the locking slider (31) can thus be unlocked at each of the transverse bars (12).

[0057] The locking slider (31) can be moved from the locking position to the unlocking position in both directions along the height direction (H). In addition to displacement by the operating protrusion (38), the locking action can also be achieved by pressing the vertical bar (311). For this purpose, the ends of the vertical bar (311) each form an end protrusion (82) that can protrude out of the main body (33). In the unlocking position of the locking slider (31) received in the main body (33), one of the end protrusions (82) comes out of the main body (33) depending on the direction in which the locking slider (31) is displaced for unlocking along the height direction (H), as illustrated in FIG. 8a. By the upward insertion of the end protrusion (82) in the illustrated case, the locking slider (31) moves to the locking position. This can be achieved particularly by closing the open transverse bar (12). In this way, it is possible to prevent an unlocked locking bar (30) from remaining on a closed chain link (10) that is ready to operate, or to prevent automatic locking from occurring.

[0058] FIGS. 9a through 11c show a different second embodiment of the split bar (90). The difference with respect to the locking bar (30) is that the body (93) of the split bar (90) can be manufactured as a single piece. As shown in FIG. 10a, the single body (93) is a plate-shaped configuration and also has two main sides (95) that are oriented apart from each other and extend parallel to the main plane, and two narrow sides (97) that are oriented apart from each other and extend perpendicularly to the main sides (95) in the height direction (H) from the upper end region (16a) to the lower end region (16b). The end regions (16a, 16b) are equipped with latching feet (160) similar to the embodiment described above. The body (93) has a plurality of identical retaining grooves (19) on the main sides (95) to accommodate a shelf (18). The retaining grooves (19) extend continuously from one narrow side (97) to the other narrow side parallel to each other and perpendicular to the height direction (H). Each retaining groove (19) opens into one of two end insertion openings (170) at each narrow side (97). The correspondingly profiled end of the shelf (18) can be inserted into each retaining groove (19) from each narrow side (97), that is, along the length direction (L) or the width of the shelf (18) in each of the two assembly directions along the split bar (90), and can also be removed from the retaining groove in the same way.

[0059] In FIGS. 9a through 11c, the split bar (90) for securing the installed shelf (18) to the retaining groove (19) has two locking sliders (91), each of which is for each main side (95) of the main body (93). Each of the locking sliders (91) is displaceable in each receiving means (94) along the longitudinal direction (L). The receiving means (94) is in the form of a recess in each main side (95) of the main body (93). The main body (93) has center symmetry so that the split bar (90) can also be inserted and rotated over 180° around the height direction (H), the longitudinal direction (L), or the transverse direction (Q).

[0060] The two locking sliders (91) are identical here. As shown in FIG. 10b, the locking slider (91) is in the form of an elongated strip or bar member having a plurality of locking elements (99) in the form of protrusions. In the unlocked position of the locking slider (91) as shown in FIG. 9a or as a detailed part of FIG. 11a, the protrusions or locking elements (99) are positioned between the retaining grooves (19) in the height direction (H) so that the end of the shelf (98) can be pushed into the retaining groove (91) and also moved out of the retaining groove.

[0061] The shelf (98) is a plate-shaped configuration and also has a T-shaped protrusion (98a) at its end corresponding to the profile of the retaining groove (19) for cooperation with the retaining groove (19). As another difference from the first example, each end of the shelf (98) does not have two openings (96) capable of receiving a locking element (99) respectively. Thus, the shelf (98) may be a mirror-image symmetric configuration. The spacing of each opening (96) from each long, narrow side of the shelf (98) in the longitudinal direction (L) corresponds to the spacing of each receiving means (94) from the nearest narrow side of the main body (93). An embodiment in which the shelf has end locking at both end edges and has no openings (96) is also conceivable.

[0062] When the locking slider (91) is displaced or moved in the height direction (H) from the receiving means (94) to a locking position, the locking element (99) extends vertically into the retaining groove (19) on the main side, as shown in FIG. 9b and FIG. 11b (without shelf) or FIG. 11c. In this position of the locking slider, the shelf (98) is fixed to prevent unwanted displacement along the retaining groove (19).

[0063] FIGS. 12a through 13b show additional embodiments of a split bar (120) that is produced as a single piece but lacks a locking slider. As in the example shown above, the split bar (120) also has a symmetrical plate-shaped body (123) having two main sides (125) and two narrow sides (127). Each main side (125) has a respective row of profiled retaining grooves (19) to accommodate the end (128a) of a shelf (128) and securely lock it in place. In this embodiment, the retaining grooves (19) also extend continuously from one narrow side (127) to the other narrow side and open into respective insertion openings (170) on both sides, that is, on each of the narrow sides (127). The shelves (128) have a projection at their end that corresponds to the profile of the retaining groove (19) and extends in the longitudinal direction (L). Here, the fixation of the shelf (128) inserted into the retaining groove (19) to prevent displacement along the retaining groove (19) is affected by the latching engagement of the latching element. For this purpose, a latching protrusion (124) is provided at the end (128a) of the shelf (128), which latchingly engages with a corresponding latching recess (122) on the main side (125) of the body (123). An inverted configuration having a latching protrusion on the body may also be conceivable.

[0064] The components described above of the chain link (10) and especially the split bar (20, 30, 90, 120) are preferably produced in the form of plastic parts using an injection molding method. Explanation of the symbols

[0065] Fig. 1, Fig. 2a, Fig. 2b: 1: Energy guide chain 10: Chain Link 11: Side plate 12: Transverse bar 13: Body of the split bar 14: Accommodation Space 15: Main side of the main body 16a, 16b: End regions of the split bar 17: Narrow side of the main body 18: Shelf 19: Maintain Groove 20: Split bar 23: Longitudinal end of the transverse bar 110: Horn of the side plate 140: Compartment of the accommodation space 160: Latching foot of the split bar 170: Insertion opening of the retention groove H: Height direction L: Length direction Q: Lateral direction FIGS. 3 to 8: 15: Main side of the main body 17: Narrow side of the main body 18: Shelf 19: Maintain Groove 30: Split bar 31: Locking Slider 32: Recess 33: Body of the split bar 34: Means of reception 33a: Plate part of the main body 35: Outer side of the plate portion 36: Inner side of the plate section 37a: Latching protrusion 37b: Depression 38: Operating protrusion 39: Locking element 46: Shelf opening 48: The End of the Shelf 48a: Protrusion at the end of the shelf 82: End projection of the locking slider 170: Insertion opening of the retention groove 311: Vertical bar 312: Horizontal bar H: Height direction L: Length direction Q: Lateral direction FIGS. 9 to 11: 16a, 16b: End regions of the split bar 18, 98: Shelf 19: Maintain Groove 90: Split bar 91: Locking Slider 93: Body of the split bar 94: Means of reception 95: Main side of the main body 96: Shelf opening 97: Narrow side of the main body 98a: Protrusion at the end of the shelf 99: Rock Element 160: Latching foot 170: Insertion opening of the retention groove H: Height direction L: Length direction Q: Lateral direction Figs. 12 and 13: 19: Maintain Groove 120: Split bar 122: Latching Recess 123: Main body 124: Latching protrusion on shelf 125: Main side of the main body 127: Narrow side of the main body 128: Shelf 128a: End of shelf 170: Insertion opening of the retention groove H: Height direction L: Length direction Q: Lateral direction

Claims

Claim 1 As a dividing bar (20; 30; 90; 120) for internal division of a chain link (10) of an energy guide chain, the chain link (10) is connected to one another by at least one transverse bar (12) and has two side plates (11) defining a receiving space (14) for a line, and the dividing bar (20; 30; 90; 120) comprises: an upper end region (16a), a lower end region (16b), two main sides (15; 95; 125), and a plate-shaped body (13; 33; 93; 123) having two opposing narrow sides (17; 97; 127) extending in the height direction (H) between the end regions (16a, 16b), and at least one of the end regions (16a, 16b) is for releaseable fixation to the transverse bar (12). A plurality of retaining grooves (19) are provided on both main sides (15, 95, 125) that are adjustable and extend substantially perpendicularly to the height direction (H) and into which each end of a plate-shaped shelf (18) can be inserted and retained for internal division, each retaining groove (19) is a continuous configuration from one narrow side (17; 97; 127) to the other narrow side, and each narrow side (17; 97; 127) has an insertion opening (170) so that the shelf (18) can be introduced into each retaining groove (19) and selectively removed from both sides in one of two opposing assembly directions through a corresponding insertion opening (170), and the dividing bar (20; 30; 90; 120) is a fixing bar that secures the mounted shelf (18) from unwanted displacement in both assembly directions and thus from unwanted release from each retaining groove (19). A divided bar (20; 30; 90; 120) characterized by having a device. Claim 2 In claim 1, the fixed device has a locking slider (31, 91) having a locking element (39, 99) that is displaceable in the height direction (H) between a locking position and an unlocking position, wherein each locking element (39, 99) is associated with a retaining groove (19) and is displaceable into the retaining groove to ensure cooperation with a shelf (18), characterized in that the split bar (20; 30; 90). Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the plate-shaped body (33) has two plate portions (33a), each of which forms a plurality of continuous retaining grooves (19) on the outer side (35) and a recess (32) for the locking slider (31) on the inner side (36), and is characterized by being able to be connected together by connecting elements (37a, 37b). Claim 4 A split bar (20; 30) characterized in that, in paragraph 2 or 3, the fixed device comprises a locking slider (31) centrally arranged on the main body (33). Claim 5 In claim 2 or 3, the split bar (20; 30) is characterized in that the locking slider (31) has at least one operating protrusion (38) protruding from the narrow side (17) of the main body (33). Claim 6 In paragraph 2, the fixed device is each displaceable in the height direction (H) between the locking position and the unlocking position in the receiving means (94) of the main body (93) and has two locking sliders (91) having locking elements (99), each locking element (99) is associated with a retaining groove (19) and is displaceable into the retaining groove to ensure cooperation with the shelf (98), characterized by a split bar (20; 30). Claim 7 A split bar (20; 30; 90) characterized in that, in any one of claims 2, 3 and 6, the locking slider or slider (31, 91) protrudes in the height direction (H) together with the end protrusion (82) in the upper or lower end region (16a, 16b) of the main body (33; 93) in the unlocked position. Claim 8 A split bar (120) characterized in that, in the first paragraph, the fixed device has a latching element (124), and each retaining groove (19) is provided with at least one latching element for latching cooperation with a corresponding latching element (124) on the shelf (128). Claim 9 In any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 and 8, the retaining grooves (19) each have a T-shaped cross section on both main sides (15, 95, 125) and cooperate with a corresponding protrusion (48a, 98a) of a T-shaped cross section at the end (48) of the shelf (18) for the purpose of retaining; and / or the retaining grooves (19) are each extended continuously in a mutually parallel relationship and perpendicular to the height direction (H), characterized by a divided bar (20; 30; 90; 120). Claim 10 A split bar (20; 30; 90; 120) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 and 8, both end regions (16a, 16b) of the main body (13, 93, 123) form a fixing device for fixation that can be released by a forced locking and / or definite locking relationship in the upper and lower transverse bar (12). Claim 11 A dividing bar (20; 30; 90; 120) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 and 8, the main body (13; 93; 123) has at least one of: - a mirror-image symmetric configuration with respect to its height direction center plane; - a mirror-image symmetric configuration with respect to its main plane; or - an axially symmetric configuration with respect to its height direction center axis. Claim 12 A split bar (20; 30; 90; 120) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 and 8, at least 5 retaining grooves (19) are provided on each main side (15; 95; 125). Claim 13 A divided bar (20; 30; 90; 120) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 and 8, the two insertion openings (170) of each retaining groove (19) each have an opposing longitudinal inclined insertion portion or a round insertion portion. Claim 14 A chain link (10) for an energy guide chain comprising two side plates (11) and at least one transverse bar (12) connecting the side plates (11) to define a receiving space (14) for a line, wherein, for internal division of the receiving space, two dividing bars (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 and 8 are provided in a relationship parallel to the side plates (11), and at least one shelf (18) maintained at each end by the dividing bars (20) is provided in a relationship parallel to the transverse bar (12). Claim 15 An energy guide chain (1) comprising a plurality of chain links, wherein at least every second chain link among the plurality of chain links is in the form of a chain link (10) according to claim 14. Claim 16 A component kit for internal division of a chain link (10) for an energy guide chain, comprising at least two dividing bars (20; 30; 90; 120) and a corresponding shelf (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 and 8.

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