Chain link having a transverse crossbar

Abstract

The invention relates to a chain link of an energy chain with two side parts and a crossbar for the detachable connection of the two side parts. The fastening area of ​​the crossbar comprises a locking element which can be moved into a locking position and an unlocking position. The locking element comprises an actuating section for selectively moving it into its locking or unlocking position, as well as a locking section for engaging the side part. The locking element is designed as a pivoting part, and when the locking element is actuated, the locking section is moved, at least in part of its movement, from the locking position to its unlocking position or vice versa in a pivoting motion.The crossbar can be loosely inserted into the holding section of the side panel for the crossbar from a direction perpendicular to the narrow side of the side panel until the desired position of the crossbar is reached.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a chain link of an energy guide chain with two side parts and a crossbar for the detachable connection of the two side parts (3) of the chain link according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] In order to load or remove cables, wires, or similar from a cable drag chain, the links of the cable drag chain must be opened by changing the position of the crossbar connecting the side parts or by dismantling it. The ability to quickly assemble and disassemble the crossbar is therefore often desirable in order to save the time required to open and close a cable drag chain and thus, for example, to save changeover time when loading or maintaining a cable drag chain. Furthermore, the crossbar of a cable drag chain must be securely attached to the side parts, as high forces act on the crossbar when the cable drag chain is moved, for example when cables routed in the chain press against the crossbar.

[0003] The crossbar is often attached to the side panels using a snap-in connection, which has the disadvantage that the crossbar cannot be easily and quickly assembled or disassembled from the side panel. Since the snap-in connection must ensure the secure attachment of the crossbar to the side panel, it is usually not easy or quick to remove. Rather, it often requires a relatively high degree of force and, if necessary, the use of tools.

[0004] It is therefore already known to provide crossbars with a locking element, by means of which the crossbar can be locked to the side part of the chain link and thus securely held to the side part. Such a crossbar with a locking element is described, for example, in WO 2008 / 125084. However, the disadvantage of this crossbar is that a tool must be used to unlock the locking element. Furthermore, the toggle lever design of the locking element with actuating part and locking part is relatively complex to manufacture, and the provided hinges in the form of film connections are comparatively sensitive to mechanical damage.

[0005] JP 2000 / 145897 A discloses a chain link with a crosspiece. The crosspiece has a first fastening area in the form of a U-shaped, expandable claw at a first end region, which is open toward the underside of the crosspiece and rigidly formed on the crosspiece. The U-shaped claw can be plugged onto a bearing pin of a side part. At the second end region, the crosspiece has a second fastening area with a U-shaped locking element, which can be pivoted to secure the crosspiece in the desired position on the side part.To attach the crosspiece, first the first fastening area of ​​the crosspiece must be placed on the side part pin in an inclined position of the crosspiece to the side part, then the crosspiece must be pivoted on the pin acting as a bearing until the crosspiece reaches its desired position, and then the second fastening area of ​​the crosspiece must be fixed to the second side part by actuating the locking element.

[0006] The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a chain link with two side parts and a crossbar with a locking element, wherein the crossbar can be quickly and easily mounted and dismounted on the side part of the chain link and wherein the locking mechanism of the crossbar is robustly designed so that the crossbar can be particularly securely fixed to the side part.

[0007] This object is achieved by a chain link with a crosspiece according to claim 1. At both crosspiece ends, the locking element is designed as a pivoting part, and upon actuation of the locking element, the locking section can be moved in a pivoting movement, at least for part of its movement, from the locking position to its unlocking position or vice versa. Furthermore, on both side pieces, with respect to the two holding areas of a crosspiece, the holding section of the side piece for the crosspiece is designed such that the crosspiece can be loosely inserted into the holding section (20) of the side piece (3) for the crosspiece from a direction perpendicular to the narrow side of the side piece running in the longitudinal direction of the chain, in the area in which the holding section is arranged, until the crosspiece reaches the desired position in which it can be locked to the side piece with a locking element.

[0008] Advantageous embodiments emerge from the subclaims.

[0009] Furthermore, the object is achieved by providing an energy guiding chain according to claim 16 with side parts according to the invention.

[0010] Because the locking element is designed as a pivoting part and, when actuated, the locking section pivots at least over part of its movement, the locking element is particularly easy to handle, i.e. it can be actuated quickly and reliably to move it into either its locking or unlocking position. Furthermore, the locking element is particularly simple and stable in design, as it does not consist of multiple parts connected to one another by hinges. The locking element is therefore particularly reliable to handle. Furthermore, this also enables quick assembly and disassembly of the crossbar while locking or unlocking.Unlocking the locking element is possible because when the crosspiece is attached to the side part to be connected, the crosspiece is handled from its upper side, i.e., the side facing away from the interior of the energy guide device, making the locking element particularly easy to access. It goes without saying that the crosspiece has a corresponding bearing or guide for the locking element, allowing it to perform a defined pivoting movement. Preferably, the movement of the locking element from its unlocked position to its locked position, or vice versa, is a pure pivoting movement, particularly preferably about a predefined pivot axis.However, the pivot axis can also be provided virtually, which is preferred, namely, for example, by a corresponding arcuate guide of the locking section during its pivoting movement, wherein the arcuate curvature of the guide defines a pivot axis.

[0011] If necessary, the movement of the locking element from its unlocked position to its locked position or vice versa can also include a certain amount of translational movement, for example a displacement in the longitudinal direction of the crosspiece, although this is not necessary and is preferably not present. Furthermore, by pivoting the locking section, a partial region, in particular an end region of the locking section at its free end, can be brought into engagement with the side part holding region for the crosspiece. This side part holding region is preferably designed as a recess or, if appropriate, as a projection, which is / are provided on the side part orthe large-area side surface of the side part facing the inside of the chain, including a projection projecting inwards on the large-area side surface of the side part, wherein the locking section engages in the said recess of the side part holding area or engages under the projection. In this way, the crossbar is secured against removal from the side plate in a direction perpendicular to the respective upper or lower narrow surface of the side part on which the holding area is arranged. If the locking section is guided in a pivoting movement according to the invention in order to be able to engage in this recess or engage under the projection, then in the locking position the end region of the locking section can rest against the wall defining the recess or the projection. The projection can in each case be the wall region of a (hypothetical oralternatively provideable) recess. On the one hand, this ensures that the crossbar is securely seated. On the other hand, during the pivoting movement of the locking section into its locking position, it only comes into contact with the wall of the recess in its end position, thereby avoiding friction between the locking section and the recess wall when the locking section moves into its locking position, as would otherwise occur during a linear displacement of the locking section into the recess, as is the case, for example, according to WO 2008 / 125084. It should be noted here that, according to WO 2008 / 125084, the crossbar is preferably secured within the scope of the invention solely by the locking section of the locking element with regard to a spacing of the crossbar perpendicular to the upper side of the crossbar.The top side of the crossbar is understood to be the side of the crossbar facing away from the inside of the chain. The crossbar holding area of ​​the side part can be designed as a horn protruding from the inside of the side part into the inside of the chain, which encloses the aforementioned receptacle or projection for the locking coupling of the locking element. The crossbar holding area can also be partially or, if necessary, completely incorporated into the body of the side part.

[0012] Particularly preferably, the holding region of the crosspiece for the locking element has an arcuate guide which, upon actuation of the locking element, causes the locking element to pivot at least partially or completely between its locking position and its unlocking position. The arcuate guide thus provides defined guidance of the locking element as it is transferred from the locking position to the unlocking position and vice versa. The arcuate guide is preferably a circular arc-shaped guide. The arcuate guide can also be designed as a holder for the locking element on the crosspiece, so that further holding means for the locking element are unnecessary, even though these can be provided additionally if necessary.The curved guide can be designed, in particular, as a guide channel in which the locking section of the locking element is guided. In addition to the two guide surfaces, the guide channel can have opposing side walls, so that the channel is circumferentially closed at least in sections or over its entire length, which enables particularly precise guidance of the locking element. Furthermore, this provides a particularly robust design of the locking mechanism, since the guide can be machined from the material of the crosspiece, thus eliminating the need for, for example, a mechanical pivot axis, which is more easily subject to mechanical damage.

[0013] Preferably, the arcuate guide of the crossbar holding area for the locking element has an upper arcuate guide surface facing the upper side of the crossbar and a lower arcuate guide surface facing away from the upper side of the crossbar, each for guiding the locking element in its pivoting movement. The two arcuate guide surfaces are each preferably designed as circular arc-shaped guide surfaces. The two said arcuate guide surfaces preferably have the same circle center. The upper and lower arcuate guide surfaces thus provide a guide channel for the locking section of the locking element, ensuring precise guidance of the locking section in the guide channel formed by the two arcuate guide surfaces.

[0014] The locking section of the locking element is preferably arcuate, particularly preferably circular, wherein the locking section is guided on at least one or both arcuate guide surfaces or in the arcuate guide channel. The arcuate curvature of the locking section preferably corresponds to the curvature of the upper or lower guide surface, respectively, with respect to the respective cooperating surfaces of the guide and the locking section.

[0015] The curved design of the locking section allows it to be guided precisely and at least virtually free of play or with no play in the curved guide. This ensures a precisely defined change in position of the locking section when changing its position from the unlocked position to the locked position or vice versa, thus enabling precise and rapid handling of the locking element. Preferably, the locking section has at least one contact area on the upper or lower, or preferably on both the upper and lower, curved guides for the locking section, so that the locking element is precisely guided by the locking section during the pivoting movement of the locking element.This contact area of ​​the locking section can lie flat against the respective guide surface of the holding area for the locking element; however, if necessary, it can also be merely a projection, which can also have an additional function (although this is not mandatory), such as locking the locking element in a defined position, serving as a loss protection device in conjunction with another area of ​​the guide channel, or having another function. Furthermore, by resting a projection on the curved guide surface to guide the locking section, the small contact surface reduces friction when pivoting the locking element, making it easy to operate.

[0016] Generally preferred, the locking section of the locking element is guided in the arcuate guide of the crossbar holding area for the locking element, so that the latter can perform a precise pivoting movement upon actuation.

[0017] Preferably, the actuating area of ​​the locking element protrudes laterally from the locking section of the same. This allows the locking element to be flat overall, and its actuating area can be fully integrated into the cross-section of the crosspiece, so that the actuating section does not protrude beyond the top of the crosspiece when the locking element is in the locked position. Particularly preferably, the actuating element protrudes at an angle of approximately 120° from the arcuate area of ​​the locking section, or within a range of 100°-140°.

[0018] The locking element is preferably designed as a substantially rigid component. Therefore, there are no weakened areas in the material, such as film hinges or areas of the locking element that can be adjusted relative to one another, as described in WO 2008 / 125084. This results in a robust design of the locking element, so that it can be actuated quickly and safely. Furthermore, the locking element, in its locked position, can bear against the crossbar holding area of ​​the side part with a certain pretension, thereby ensuring a secure and play-free fit of the crossbar when the locking element is locked. In general, within the scope of the invention, it is already sufficient if the locking element, in its locked position, bears loosely against the crossbar holding area of ​​the side part.However, this has the disadvantage that, given tolerances or minor positional changes of the locking element during operation of the energy chain, play could develop between the locking element and the crossbar retaining area, with the risk of increasing the play during operation of the chain. This is counteracted by the locking element being applied to the crossbar retaining area with a certain preload in the locked position.

[0019] The locking section of the locking element preferably has a flat contact surface at its edge region for contact with the crossbar holding region of the side part. The arcuate region of the locking section can thus be formed with a flat contact surface. Preferably, generally within the scope of the invention, the locking section is flat at its contact region with the crossbar holding region, providing flat contact with the crossbar holding region in the locking position of the locking element. This ensures a secure fit of the crossbar. The contact surface of the locking section on the crossbar holding region preferably extends over a larger part of the width of the locking element, particularly preferably over its entire width, so that the crossbar is secured with respect to possible tilting about the crossbar longitudinal axis.

[0020] Preferably, the locking element and the holding region of the crosspiece for the locking element have corresponding locking means for securing the locking element in its locking position. This ensures that the locking element cannot be released from its locking position during operation of the energy chain, which is associated with corresponding mechanical forces acting on the chain links. The locking means of the locking element and the crosspiece holding region are particularly preferably arranged on the locking section of the locking element. This can in particular also refer to the partial section of the locking section which is still arranged in the crosspiece when the locking element is locked. If necessary, the corresponding locking means can thus be arranged in the crosspiece holding region of the side part.The corresponding locking means are particularly preferably arranged at the end region of the crossbar, particularly preferably inside or at the end region of the guide of the crossbar for the locking section. This has proven to be preferred in order to prevent accidental release of the locking element when force is applied perpendicularly to the crossbar when the energy guide chain is moved. By arranging the locking means in the guide channel of the curved guide for the locking element, these locking means are also protected from external forces and thus the risk of accidental release of the locking connection is reduced. Furthermore, by arranging the locking means on the locking section orin an arrangement with the greatest possible distance from the actuating section of the locking element, the security of the locking connection is improved, since this is then arranged close to the connecting area between the crossbar and the side part and as a result lower lever forces act on the area of ​​the locking section arranged between the free end and the locking means than if the locking means are arranged, for example, on the actuating area of ​​the locking element.

[0021] Preferably, the holding region of the crosspiece has anti-loss means that interact with the locking element and are preferably arranged in the guide channel of the curved guide for the locking element, more precisely for the locking section thereof. This prevents the locking element from accidentally detaching from the crosspiece when arranged in its unlocked position. This significantly improves the handling of the crosspiece during its assembly or the assembly itself. Because the anti-loss means are arranged on the locking section of the locking element, they can only interact when the locking element is in its unlocked position. This enables simple and low-friction actuation of the locking element.Furthermore, the arrangement of the loss-prevention means in the guide channel for the locking element or the locking section thereof prevents damage or decoupling thereof due to external forces; the loss-prevention means are thus protected even in the unlocked position of the locking element. The loss-prevention means on the holding region of the crossbar or the locking element or locking section thereof can, for example, be designed as projections that engage behind one another. The loss-prevention means or the corresponding projection on the locking element or locking section thereof can preferably bear against a surface of the crossbar holding region for the locking element, so that the fit of the locking element is improved during its pivoting movement and this can be moved in the guide at least substantially or practically free of play.It is generally understood, however, that other projections, contact areas or the like can also be provided on the locking section, which can bear against a guide surface of the crossbar holding area for the locking element in order to ensure play-free running of the locking element or section during its pivoting movement.

[0022] Particularly preferably, the locking element can be locked and unlocked by manual actuation. The inventive design of the locking element is particularly adapted for this purpose. Thus, the free end region of the actuating section of the locking element can be easily grasped manually in order to actuate the locking element. A finger engagement area can easily be provided on the crosspiece for this purpose. Since the actuating end of the locking element faces the center of the crosspiece, the inventive design provides sufficient space to arrange a corresponding finger engagement area for the actuating section on the crosspiece.

[0023] The invention further encompasses a side part of a chain link of an energy guide chain with a holding section for releasably securing a crossbar, and optionally with a crossbar, wherein the side part has laterally spaced, large-area side surfaces and upper and lower narrow sides connecting the side surfaces, which run in the longitudinal direction of the chain, wherein the holding section for the crossbar has a recess open towards a side surface for receiving a locking element of a crossbar for lockingly securing the crossbar to the side part in order to secure the crossbar against spacing from the side plate in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the crossbar. The side part can also be a side part with a coupled crossbar.

[0024] The transverse web can particularly preferably be designed according to the invention, but can also have a different design.

[0025] It is understood that the side part has joint regions spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction of the side part for connection to a corresponding adjacent side part with its respective joint region. However, the invention is not limited to specific shapes of side parts or designs of joint connections. The side parts can be designed as alternating inner and outer plates, as cranked side plates or as laterally abutting side plates, or in some other way. The joint regions can be designed as tenon-recess joints or pin-hole joints, but also as elastic or torsionally deformable joint elements which connect adjacent side parts, whereby adjacent side parts can overlap one another but may also not overlap one another.Due to the joint areas of the side parts, the chain can be arranged in the manner of an upper run, a deflection area and a lower run, whereby the chain arranged in this way can be straight, curved or arranged in another way.

[0026] According to the invention, the holding section of the side part for the crossbar is designed such that the crossbar can be loosely inserted into the holding section of the side part for the crossbar from a direction perpendicular to the narrow side of the side part running in the longitudinal direction of the chain, in the area or on which the holding section is arranged, until the crossbar's desired position is reached, in which the crossbar can be locked to the side part with a locking element. The locking element can be held on the crossbar in a positionally adjustable manner. The crossbar can thus be loosely inserted into the holding area perpendicular to the narrow side of the side part, which is provided with the crossbar holding section, preferably in a direction from outside the chain link towards the chain link, until the crossbar's desired position is reached, in order to be able to lock it to the side part. The crossbar is designed as described within the scope of the invention.This applies to both side parts of a respective chain link and to both crossbar ends of the respective crossbar. The crossbar can thus be easily guided from the outside to the side parts perpendicular to the narrow sides running in the longitudinal direction of the chain, with the crossbar being guided parallel to the connecting line between the opposing holding areas of the two side parts, which are to be connected by a crossbar. Because the crossbar is loosely inserted into its intended position, there is no additional effort required, such as would be necessary to overcome a locking connection or the like. Furthermore, the crossbar can be guided parallel to its intended position in its connected position of the two side parts, thus ensuring particularly simple handling of the crossbar, allowing it to be assembled or disassembled particularly quickly and easily.It is therefore not necessary to first secure the crosspiece in one of the holding areas of one of the two side pieces and then, for example, to connect the other holding area of ​​the crosspiece with the corresponding holding area of ​​the side piece by means of a pivoting movement. With the inventive design of the side pieces, the handling of the crosspiece in order to lock it to the two side pieces can be carried out much more quickly. In particular, both holding areas of the crosspiece can be coupled simultaneously to the holding areas of the opposite side pieces of a chain link, which is particularly advantageous in terms of handling.

[0027] Particularly preferably, the side part can be designed such that the holding area or holding section for the crossbar has two lateral recesses, each of which is open on two sides, namely on the one hand towards the narrow side of the side part on which the holding area is arranged, and on the other hand in the longitudinal direction of the chain, wherein the recesses each have a support surface towards the inside of the chain link for holding projections of the crossbar that engage in the recess, and wherein the respective recess forms an undercut of the crossbar holding section, which prevents a spacing of the side part and crossbar in the longitudinal direction of the crossbar. This narrow side is a narrow side running in the longitudinal direction of the chain. When the energy guide chain is arranged on a flat base, when viewed from the upper crossbar, the corresponding recess is therefore open upwards.A corresponding section of the holding area of ​​the crossbar can thus be inserted into this like a peg-shaped projection. On the other hand, the recesses are open in the longitudinal direction of the chain, so that the crossbar as a whole can be equipped with two hook-shaped projections at its end area, with the free ends of the two hooks oriented towards the central longitudinal axis of the crossbar. The recesses also have a base area which limits the insertion depth of the hook-shaped projections of the crossbar. Furthermore, the respective recess forms an undercut of the crossbar holder section, which, when a region of the holding element of the crossbar is arranged, prevents the crossbar from being spaced apart from the side part in the longitudinal direction of the crossbar.The two recesses are thus essentially each designed like a shaft, which is open upwards relative to the adjacent narrow side and which is also open in the longitudinal direction of the chain, so that a fork-shaped holding area of ​​the crosspiece, with the projections projecting toward the crosspiece's central axis, can be inserted into the shaft-shaped recesses from above. This design has proven particularly preferred for a secure and quick-to-use connection between the crosspiece and the side parts.

[0028] Preferably, both side parts are designed according to the invention with respect to the two holding areas of a crossbar or with respect to the two opposite crossbar ends of both crossbars of a chain link.

[0029] The receptacle for the crossbar holding area of ​​the side part for receiving the locking element of the crossbar is preferably arranged, with respect to the longitudinal extent of the side part, between the two aforementioned recesses of the holding area for the crossbar, which are open on both sides. It is understood that instead of a recess, a projection can also be provided on the side part, which is engaged under by the locking element of the crossbar in order to secure the crossbar to the side part.

[0030] All statements relating to a crosspiece according to the invention also relate to the combination of the crosspiece with a side part or of the crosspiece on a chain link. All statements relating to a side part according to the invention also relate to the combination of the side part with a crosspiece according to the invention. The chain link preferably has two side parts that are laterally spaced apart from one another and connected to one another by two crosspieces. In this case, one, particularly preferably both, of the crosspieces of the chain link can be designed as crosspieces designed according to the invention. The design of the side part according to the invention can particularly preferably relate to both side parts of a chain link.

[0031] The invention will be described below using an exemplary embodiment. All features of the exemplary embodiment are also disclosed independently of one another and generally within the scope of the invention. Identical components are provided with the same reference numerals in the figures. They show: Figure 1: a perspective view of two incomplete chain links of an energy guide chain, in which the second side parts are missing, wherein the crossbars and the side parts are designed according to the invention, Figure 2: a perspective view of a crossbar according to the invention with a locking element locked on one side and unlocked on the other side, Figure 3: a cross-sectional view of the crossbar according to Figure 2 (Figure 3a ) and a detailed view of the crosspiece according to Figure 3a (Figure 3b ), Figure 4: a top view of the crosspiece according to Figure 2with the locking element locked on one side (left) and the locking element unlocked (right), Figure 5: connecting area of ​​a crosspiece according to the invention with the side part according to the invention with the crosspiece locked, Figure 6: a perspective view of a side part according to the invention according to Figure 1 .

[0032] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of two incomplete chain links 2 of an energy guide chain 1, in which the second side parts 3 of each chain link, i.e. in the illustration the front side parts, which would be connected to the free ends of the crossbars 4, are missing. The crossbars 4 and the side parts 3 are designed according to the invention. The side parts of the chain are here according to Fig. 1as alternating inner and outer parts. It should be emphasized that the invention is not limited to this shape of the side parts with regard to the side parts and the coupling of the crosspieces to the side parts, as already noted in the general explanations of the invention. The side parts 3 have hinge areas 5 in order to be able to be hingedly connected to the two adjacent side plates of a strand of side plates, as shown in Fig. 1indicated by way of example, so that the energy guide chain can be arranged in an arrangement with an upper run, a deflection area, and a lower run. However, the design of the articulated connections is in no way limiting for the invention; the articulated connections can, for example, also be integrally formed on one or both adjacent side parts. The chain links 2 are provided here with both an upper and a lower crossbar in the inventive design; however, it is also possible, for example, for only the upper or only the lower crossbar to be designed according to the invention, and for the other crossbar to be formed differently, for example, also on the side plates.

[0033] The crosspiece 4 serves for the detachable connection of two side parts 3 of a chain link 2 of an energy chain 1, wherein the crosspiece 4 has at least one or both of its ends 6 a fastening area 7 for detachable attachment to the respective side part 3. The fastening area 7 of the crosspiece comprises a locking element 8, which can be transferred into a locking position V and an unlocking position E (see Fig. 2), wherein in the locking position V, the crosspiece 4 is permanently locked to the side part 3, and in the unlocking position E, the crosspiece 4 can be detached from the side part 3. The locking element 8 comprises an actuating section 9 for selectively transferring the same into its locking or unlocking position, as well as a locking section 10 for locking engagement with the side part 3. The fastening area 7 of the crosspiece is designed here in the manner of a fork head, with two laterally spaced hook-shaped projections 7a and a locking element 8 arranged between them.

[0034] The locking element 8 is designed as a pivoting part. Upon actuation of the locking element 8, the locking section 10 is moved in a pivoting movement, at least in part of its movement, from the locking position V to its unlocking position E or vice versa.

[0035] The holding area 11 of the crosspiece 4 for the locking element 8 has an arcuate guide 12 which, upon actuation of the locking element 8, causes a pivoting movement of the same at least over a part or the complete movement of the locking element 8 between its locking position and its unlocking position.

[0036] The curved guide 12 of the crossbar holding area for the locking element has an upper curved guide 12a facing the upper side of the crossbar and a lower curved guide 12b facing away from the upper side of the crossbar, each for (jointly) guiding the locking element in a pivoting movement. The curved guides 12a, 12b are designed here as circular arc guides, which preferably have the same circle center. The curved guides 12a, 12b are designed here as guide surfaces, but they can also be simply web-shaped or designed in another way.

[0037] The locking section 10 of the locking element 8 is arcuate. The upper and / or lower boundary surfaces 13a, 13b of the locking section 10 are adapted to the contours of the upper and lower guides 12a, 12b and each have at least substantially the same curvature as these. With respect to the upper boundary surface 13a of the locking element 8, however, it is also sufficient for a projection, such as the projection acting as a captive locking means 17, to rest against the upper guide surface 12a during the pivoting movement, preferably over the entire pivoting movement, or to be slightly spaced from it.

[0038] The locking section 10 of the locking element 8 is arranged in the arcuate guide 12 of the crossbar holding area 11 for the locking element 8.

[0039] The actuating area 9 of the locking element 8 protrudes laterally from the locking section 10 thereof, for example at an angle of approximately 120°. The actuating area 9 of the locking element 8 is completely accommodated in the cross section of the crosspiece 4 in the locking position V (see Fig. 2 and 3a ).

[0040] The locking element 8 is designed as an essentially rigid component.

[0041] The locking section 10 of the locking element 8 has at its end region a flat contact surface 14 for contact with the holding area of ​​the side part ( Fig. 3 , Fig. 5 ). In the locked position, this can rest loosely or preferably with a certain pre-tension on the holding area of ​​the side part.

[0042] Corresponding locking means 15 are provided for securing the locking element in its locking position. The corresponding locking means 15a are provided on the one hand on the locking element 8, more precisely on the locking section 10. The locking means 15b corresponding to the locking means 15a are provided on the other hand on the crossbar holding area 16 of the side part 3 for the locking element 8 or on the crossbar 4, preferably in the curved guide 12 or the guide channel of the crossbar for the locking element or for the locking section 10. This allows the locking element 8 to be secured in its locking position with a locking action.

[0043] The holding area 11 of the crosspiece 4 for the locking element 8 has anti-loss means 17 that interact with the locking element 8 and are preferably arranged in the guide channel of the curved guide for the locking element. The anti-loss means 17 are designed here as projections 17a and 17b that engage behind one another. The anti-loss means 17 prevent the locking element from accidentally detaching from the crosspiece, particularly in the unlocked position.

[0044] The locking element 8 can be locked and unlocked by manual operation.

[0045] The Figures 1 and 6show a side part 3 of a chain link 2 of an energy guide chain 1 with a holding section 20 for the releasable securing of a crosspiece 3, and in combination therewith also a fastened crosspiece 4. The side part 3 has laterally spaced, large-area side surfaces 21 and upper and lower narrow sides 22 connecting the side surfaces 21, which run in the longitudinal direction of the chain. The holding section 20 for the crosspiece has a recess 23 open in the direction of a side surface for receiving a locking element 8 of a crosspiece 3 for the locked securing of the crosspiece 4 to the side part 3 in order to secure the crosspiece against spacing from the side link in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the crosspiece. Instead of the recess, only the upper wall region 23a, which defines the recess, can be provided on the side part if necessary.The holding section 20 can be designed as a horn protruding laterally from the side parts, as shown, so that the side part can also be relatively thin and thus lightweight. However, under certain circumstances, the holding area 20 can also be partially or completely integrated into the side part. The two holding areas 20 of the side part are mirror-symmetrical to plane B.

[0046] The holding section 20 of the side part 3 for the crosspiece 4 is designed such that the crosspiece can be loosely inserted into the holding section of the side part for the crosspiece from a direction perpendicular to the narrow side 22 of the side part running in the chain's longitudinal direction, in the region where the holding section is arranged, until the crosspiece reaches its desired position, in which position it can be locked to the side part with a locking element. Thus, no resistance is encountered when inserting the fastening area 7 of the crosspiece into the holding section 20, as would be the case, for example, with a locking connection with locking resistance that must be overcome.

[0047] The holding section 20 for the crosspiece 4 has two lateral recesses 25, each open on two sides, namely on the one hand towards the narrow side of the side part (reference number 26), on which the holding area is arranged, and on the other hand in the longitudinal direction of the chain (reference number 27). The recesses 25 are thus designed like a shaft and run with the shaft axis perpendicular to the narrow sides 22 of the side parts 3, so that fastening projections of the fastening area of ​​the crosspiece can be loosely inserted from above into the respective shaft until the crosspiece reaches the desired position for locking to the side part. The recesses 25 each have a support surface 28 towards the inside of the chain link for hook-shaped holding projections 30 of the fastening areas of the crosspiece, which engage in the recess; the support surface thus acts as a type of floor.The respective recess 25 further forms an undercut 28 of the crossbar holding section, which prevents the side part and the crossbar from becoming separated in the longitudinal direction of the crossbar. The laterally projecting projections 31 of the holding projections 30 thus engage in the shaft-like recesses 25 of the side part holding areas 20 and thereby secure the crossbar both against separation from the side parts in the longitudinal direction of the crossbar and against displacement in the longitudinal direction of the chain.

[0048] This design of the holding section 20 for the crossbar also has the particular advantage that it protrudes only comparatively slightly into the interior of the chain, despite being arranged on the inner side surface of the side part, so that the interior of the energy guide chain is only relatively slightly restricted by the holding section, which makes it considerably easier to equip the chains with cables or to remove cables from the chain.

[0049] Both side parts can be designed identically with respect to the two holding areas of a crossbar or with respect to the two opposite crossbar ends of both crossbars of a chain link, in particular in accordance with claims 13 and / or 14 and the associated description.

[0050] In general, the invention relates to the following embodiments, which are hereby generally disclosed within the scope of the invention: 1. A crosspiece for the detachable connection of two side parts of a chain link of an energy guide chain, wherein the crosspiece has at least one or both of its ends a fastening area for detachable attachment to the respective side part, and wherein the fastening area of ​​the crosspiece comprises a locking element which can be transferred into a locking position and an unlocking position, wherein in the locking position the crosspiece is permanently locked to the side part and in the unlocking position the crosspiece is detachable from the side part, wherein the locking element comprises an actuating section for selectively transferring the same into its locking or unlocking position, as well as a locking section for locking engagement with the side part, characterized bythat the locking element is designed as a pivoting part, and upon actuation of the locking element, the locking section is moved in a pivoting movement at least over part of its movement from the locking position to its unlocking position or vice versa. 2. Crosspiece according to embodiment 1, characterized in that the holding area of ​​the crosspiece for the locking element has an arcuate guide which, upon actuation of the locking element, causes a pivoting movement of the locking element at least over part or the entire movement of the locking element between its locking position and its unlocking position. 3.Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 or 2, characterized in that the arcuate guide of the crosspiece holding region for the locking element has an upper arcuate guide facing the upper side of the crosspiece and a lower arcuate guide facing away from the upper side of the crosspiece, each for guiding the locking element in a pivoting movement. 4. Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 to 3, characterized in that the locking section of the locking element is arcuate. 5. Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 to 4, characterized in that the locking section of the locking element is guided in the arcuate guide of the crosspiece holding region for the locking element. 6. Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 to 5, characterized in that the actuating region of the locking element protrudes laterally from the locking section thereof. 7.Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 to 6, characterized in that the locking element is designed as a substantially rigid component. 8. Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 to 7, characterized in that the locking section of the locking element has a flat contact surface at its end region for contact with the holding region of the side part. 9. Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 to 8, characterized in that, on the one hand, the locking element and, on the other hand, the crosspiece holding region of the side part for the locking element or the crosspiece have corresponding locking means for securing the locking element in its locking position. 10. Crosspiece according to embodiment 9, characterized in that the locking means are arranged in the guide channel of the curved guide for the locking element. 11.Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 to 10, characterized in that the holding region of the crosspiece has anti-loss means that interact with the locking element and are preferably arranged in the guide channel of the curved guide for the locking element. 12. Crosspiece according to one of embodiments 1 to 10, characterized in that the locking element can be locked and unlocked by manual actuation. 13.Side part of a chain link of an energy guide chain with a holding section for the releasable fixing of a crossbar, and optionally with a crossbar, in particular with a crossbar according to one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the side part has laterally spaced large-area side surfaces and upper and lower narrow sides connecting the side surfaces, which run in the longitudinal direction of the chain, wherein the holding section for the crossbar has a recess open in the direction of a side surface for receiving a locking element of a crossbar for the locked fixing of the crossbar to the side part in order to secure the crossbar against being spaced apart from the side plate in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the crossbar. characterized bythat the holding section of the side part for the crossbar is designed such that the crossbar can be loosely inserted into the holding section of the side part for the crossbar from a direction perpendicular to the narrow side of the side part running in the longitudinal direction of the chain, in the region of which the holding section is arranged, until the crossbar reaches the desired position in which it can be locked to the side part with a locking element. 14.Side part according to embodiment 13 with a crossbar, in particular with a crossbar according to one of embodiments 1 to 12, characterized in that the holding section for the crossbar has two lateral recesses, each open on two sides, namely on the one hand towards the narrow side of the side part, on which the holding region is arranged, and on the other hand in the longitudinal direction of the chain, that the recesses each have a support surface towards the inside of the chain link for holding projections of the crossbar engaging in the recess, and that the respective recess forms an undercut of the crossbar holding section, which prevents a spacing of the side part and the crossbar in the longitudinal direction of the crossbar. 15. Chain link of an energy guide chain with a crossbar according to one of embodiments 1 to 12 and / or with a side part according to one of embodiments 13 and / or 14. 16.Chain link of an energy guiding chain according to embodiment 15, wherein both side parts are formed with respect to the two holding regions of a crosspiece or with respect to the two opposite crosspiece ends of both crosspieces of a chain link according to embodiment 13 and / or 14. 17. Energy guiding chain with chain links according to one of embodiments 15 or 16. List of reference symbols

[0051] 1 Energy guiding chain 2 Chain link 3 Side part 4 Crossbar 5 Joint area 6 End 7 Fastening area 7a,7b Hook-shaped projections 8 Locking element 9 Actuating section 10 Locking section 11 Holding area 12 Curved guide 12a Upper curved guide 12b Lower curved guide 13a Upper boundary surface 13b Lower boundary surface 14 Contact surface 15 Latching means 15a,15b Corresponding latching means 16 Crossbar holding area 17 Loss prevention means 17a,17b Rear-engaging projections 20 Holding section 21 Side surface 22 Narrow side 23 Recess 23a Upper wall area 25 Recess 26 Narrow side Side part 27 Longitudinal direction of the chain 28 Support surface / undercut 30 Holding projections 31 Laterally projecting projections V Locking position E Unlocking position

Claims

1. Chain link (2) of an energy guide chain, wherein the chain link (2) has two side parts (3) and a crosspiece (4) for detachably connecting the two side parts (3) of the chain link, wherein the crosspiece (4) has a fastening region (7) at both of its ends for detachably securing it to the respective side part (3), and wherein the fastening region (7) of the crosspiece (4) comprises a locking element (8) which can be transferred into a locking position and an unlocking position, wherein in the locking position the crosspiece (4) is non-detachably locked to the side part (3) and in the unlocking position the crosspiece (4) can be released from the side part (3), wherein the locking element (8) comprises an actuating section (9) for selectively transferring it into its locking or unlocking position, as well as a locking section (10) for locking engagement with the side part (3) has,wherein both side parts (3) each have a holding section (20) for releasably securing a crosspiece (4), wherein the side part (3) has laterally spaced, large-area side surfaces (21) and upper and lower narrow sides (22) connecting the side surfaces (21) and extending in the longitudinal direction of the chain, and wherein the holding section (20) for the crosspiece (4) has a recess (23) open in the direction of a side surface (3) for receiving the locking element (8) of the crosspiece (4) for the locked securing of the crosspiece (4) to the side part (3), or wherein the holding section (20) for the crosspiece (4) has a projection which can be gripped under by the locking section of the crosspiece in order to secure the crosspiece (4) against being spaced apart from the side plate (3) in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the crosspiece (4), characterized by thatthe locking element (8) of the transverse web (4) is designed as a pivoting part and upon actuation of the locking element (8), the locking section is moved in a pivoting movement at least in part of its movement from the locking position to its unlocking position or vice versa, and that on both side parts (3) in relation to the two holding areas of a crossbar (4), the holding section (20) of the side part (3) for the crossbar (4) is designed such that the crossbar (4) can be loosely inserted into the holding section (20) of the side part (3) for the crossbar (4) from a direction perpendicular to the narrow side (22) of the side part (3) running in the longitudinal direction of the chain, in the area in which the holding section (20) is arranged, until the crossbar reaches the desired position in which it can be locked to the side part with a locking element (8).

2. Chain link according to claim 1, characterized in thatthe holding region (11) of the transverse web (4) for the locking element (8) has an arcuate guide which, upon actuation of the locking element (8), causes a pivoting movement of the same at least over a part or the complete movement of the locking element (8) between its locking position and its unlocking position.

3. Chain link according to claim 2, characterized in that the curved guide of the crossbar holding region (11) for the locking element (8) has an upper curved guide (12a) facing the upper side of the crossbar and a lower curved guide (12b) facing away from the upper side of the crossbar, each for guiding the locking element in a pivoting movement.

4. Chain link according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the arcuate guide (12) is designed as a guide channel in which the locking section (10) of the locking element (8) is guided.

5. Chain link according to claim 4, characterized in that the upper arcuate guide (12a) facing the upper side of the crosspiece and the lower arcuate guide (12b) facing away from the upper side of the crosspiece form the guide channel for the locking element (8) between them and that the locking element (8) is guided in the guide channel.

6. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the locking section (10) of the locking element (8) is arc-shaped.

7. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the locking section (10) of the locking element (8) is guided in the arcuate guide of the crossbar holding area (11) for the locking element (8).

8. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the actuating area (9) of the locking element (8) protrudes laterally from the locking section (10) thereof.

9. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the locking element (8) is designed as a substantially rigid component.

10. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the locking section (10) of the locking element (8) has at its end region a flat contact surface (14) for contact with the holding region (11) of the side part (3).

11. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that on the one hand the locking element (8) and on the other hand the crossbar holding area (11) of the side part (3) for the locking element (8) or the crossbar (4) has corresponding locking means (15) for fixing the locking element (8) in its locking position.

12. Chain link according to claim 11, characterized in that the locking means (15) are arranged in the guide channel of the curved guide for the locking element (8).

13. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the holding region (11) of the transverse web (4) has anti-loss means (17) which interact with the locking element (8) and are preferably arranged in the guide channel of the curved guide for the locking element (8).

14. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the locking element (8) can be locked and unlocked by manual operation.

15. Chain link according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in thatthe holding section (20) for the crossbar (5) has two lateral recesses, which are each open on two sides, namely on the one hand towards the narrow side (22) of the side part, on which the holding area is arranged, and on the other hand in the longitudinal direction of the chain, that the recesses each have a support surface (26) towards the inside of the chain link for holding projections (27) of the crossbar (4) engaging in the recess, and that the respective recess forms an undercut (26) of the crossbar holding section, which prevents a spacing of the side part (3) and the crossbar (4) in the longitudinal direction of the crossbar.

16. Energy guiding chain with chain links according to one of claims 1 to 15.