Push-pull chains and push-pull-chain link therefor

Abstract

The invention proposes a push-pull chain (20) consisting of a plurality of push-pull-chain links (50) which are pivotably attached to one another and, in a state in which the push-pull chain (20) has been extended in an extending direction (4A), are oriented in a longitudinal direction (2) of the push-pull-chain links (50). The push-pull-chain links (50) each have two chain-link elements (70, 80), which are coupled to one another in a fixed position directly or using a coupling element (90) and together define the outer contour of the push-pull-chain link (50).

Description

[0001] Push chains and push chain links for this

[0002] FIELD OF APPLICATION AND STATE OF THE ART

[0003] The invention relates to a push chain and a chain link therefor, as well as to a push chain assembly and a push chain module comprising such a push chain. The invention further relates to a slide-out arrangement for a mobile home or caravan trailer, as well as to a mobile home or caravan trailer comprising such a slide-out arrangement.

[0004] A generic slide-out arrangement enables the use of movable slide-out boxes. These slide-out boxes represent extensions for the interior of a vehicle, such as a motorhome or caravan trailer. They are positioned in a slide-out recess in a vehicle wall and can be moved between a retracted storage position and an extended usable position. The extended usable position increases the interior of the vehicle by approximately the size of the slide-out box. This can be used, for example, to expand the living space of a motorhome when the vehicle is stationary.

[0005] Generic push chains are chains made of identical or similar chain links that are sufficiently strong to transmit compressive forces in the extended direction of the push chain. In principle, such a push chain can be designed as a bidirectionally bendable chain in the chain plane. However, push chains that prevent the chain from bending in at least one direction from the extended position are known and preferred, thus making it more difficult to bend during extension.

[0006] The use of push chains as part of a drive system for a slide-out assembly is generally well known. Push chains can be advantageously used for applying force to slide-out boxes in the retraction and extension directions, as they avoid disadvantages inherent in other systems, such as racks on the outside of the slide-out box.

[0007] However, push chains are typically comparatively heavy, so their own weight reduces the tendency of the push chains to buckle. The high mass of conventional push chains is problematic when used as part of slide-out arrangements, as this significantly increases the vehicle's unladen weight. Furthermore, the mass of the push chain represents an asymmetric load for the vehicle in the case of side-mounted slide-out arrangements.

[0008] TASK AND SOLUTION

[0009] The object of the invention is therefore to provide a push chain that is inexpensive and relatively lightweight, yet suitable for use in slide-out arrangements due to the transferable force. A further object of the invention is to provide suitable push chain links, a corresponding push chain assembly, and a corresponding push chain module based on this. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to enable an advantageous design of a slide-out arrangement and a vehicle with such a slide-out arrangement using the described push chain.

[0010] According to the main aspect of the invention, a push chain is proposed, consisting of a plurality of push chain links that are pivotally mounted to one another. The push chain links, which are at least predominantly pivoted relative to an extension direction in a stowed state, can be extended in said extension direction, so that the extended and preferably rectilinear part of the push chain is capable of transmitting compressive forces and thus, in particular, applying the necessary force to a slide-out box relative to the chassis of a vehicle in a retraction direction and an extension direction.

[0011] The push chain links of the push chain according to the invention have a special structure, whereby this applies at least to some push chain links, while it can be provided that other push chain links of the same push chain have a different structure. The special structure according to the invention provides that the push chain links are each constructed from two chain link elements that are fixedly coupled to one another directly or using a coupling element and thus jointly define the outer contour of the push chain link. Such a definition of the outer contour means that at least 90%, preferably at least 99%, of the outer surface of the push chain link is formed by the two chain link elements. The chain link elements form the main part of the push chain links.In one possible design, the push chain links are constructed exclusively from these two chain link elements, which can be locked, glued or welded together for coupling.

[0012] The simple design of the rigid chain links, which will be described in more detail below, represents a cost-effective manufacturing option. The chain link elements can be manufactured, in particular, as simple and lightweight plastic injection-molded parts. With a suitable design, the forces they can transmit are sufficient for many applications, especially for use in slide-out systems.

[0013] However, it is preferred if a third element, the coupling element, is part of the rigid chain links. This coupling element can be designed in particular in the form of a preferably metallic coupling pin arranged in a pin channel extending through both chain link elements. Preferably, a through-hole is provided in one of the chain link elements and a blind hole is provided in the second chain link element. The through-hole and the blind hole are aligned with each other after the two chain link elements have been assembled, so that the coupling pin can be inserted into this hole during assembly.

[0014] The pin channel preferably extends in the longitudinal direction of the rigid chain link. When the rigid chain is extended, the pin channel is aligned in the direction of extension of the rigid chain. This is advantageous for easy installation.

[0015] In particular, it is preferred if the pin channel extends in one direction of travel, wherein the chain link elements of the push-link chain link are positively coupled to one another with respect to this direction of travel by their respective shape, at least with respect to one relative displacement direction and preferably with respect to both relative displacement directions. This means that even before the coupling pin is inserted, the two chain link elements are limited in terms of relative mobility to one separation direction in the abutting state, and the relative displacement in this separation direction is prevented by the insertion of the coupling pin. After the pin has been inserted, non-destructive separation of the chain link elements is not possible without first removing the coupling pin. The direction of travel of the pin channel can coincide with the longitudinal direction of the push-link chain links, but this does not have to be the case.In principle, a rigid chain of the type according to the invention can be designed such that the rigid chain links can bend relative to each other in both directions in the chain plane. To prevent such a rigid chain from buckling during the transmission of thrust forces, a guide must be provided.

[0016] However, a design in which the push chain links each have an outer contour that prevents the pivoting mobility of two directly coupled push chain links in the chain plane of the push chain in one direction beyond the extended position and thus restricts it to the opposite click direction is considered advantageous. Such a restriction prevents the push chain from buckling in one direction, which effectively prevents the push chain from buckling in the opposite direction. Since any buckling of the push chain between two attachment points of the push chain, e.g., on the vehicle chassis and the slide-out box, requires that the push chain also be able to bend in the opposite direction.If buckling in one direction is prevented, the rigid chain cannot buckle to any significant extent in any direction, provided the compressive forces at the ends do not become excessive. Additionally, the rigid chain links can also be stabilized by the interaction of two rigid chains, as explained below.

[0017] In order to achieve the limited pivoting mobility, the outer contour of the push chain links is preferably designed in such a way that the front ends of the push chain links come into contact with one another in an extended relative arrangement of the push chain links and thus prevent any further buckling.

[0018] Preferably, it is further provided that the push-link chains each have an outer contour that limits the pivoting mobility of two directly coupled push-link chains in the plane of the push-link chain to an angle of less than 100°, preferably to 90°, relative to a straight orientation. Thus, two push-link chains pivotably connected to one another can preferably pivot relative to one another between the straight relative arrangement with aligned longitudinal directions and a position bent by approximately 90°.

[0019] To reduce the tendency of the rigid chain to buckle, particularly under heavy loads, it is preferably provided that the rigid chain described here is not used as a single chain, but rather that two rigid chains are provided, forming a joint rigid chain assembly. In the manner described below, these two rigid chains can form a positive connection during extension, so that they are fixed to one another in the extension direction and thus enable the rigid chain assembly to extend safely and without buckling.

[0020] The chain link elements of a push chain according to the invention according to the main aspect of the invention consist, as described above, primarily of two chain link elements, optionally supplemented by the described coupling element, in particular a metallic coupling pin.

[0021] The two chain link elements each have a contact surface against which the other chain link element rests flat. To ensure particularly good adhesion of the chain link elements to one another, it is proposed to design the contact surfaces so that they do not lie in a common plane. Preferably, a maximum of 50% of both contact surfaces lie in the area of ​​a common main plane, while other parts of the contact surfaces are offset from this. The contact surfaces therefore have a three-dimensional shape that deviates from the plane. Regardless of the joining method of the chain link elements, such as welding, gluing, or coupling by means of a coupling element such as a coupling pin or a coupling screw, such a three-dimensional design of the contact surface can ensure a firmer hold between the chain link elements.

[0022] In particular, the chain link elements can have a shape that ensures they are positively secured against relative displacement in the longitudinal direction of the rigid chain when assembled. This ensures that when the rigid chain is subjected to tensile or compressive stress, the forces occurring between the chain link elements do not have to be absorbed by the joining means, such as the welded or adhesive joint, but instead the chain link elements rest directly against each other.

[0023] A particularly advantageous design provides for one of the chain link elements to have webs aligned transversely to the longitudinal direction, with the other chain link element having corresponding grooves. When the chain link elements are assembled, the webs are arranged in the grooves so that power can be transmitted between the chain link elements in the longitudinal direction. A simplified design with just one groove and just one web is also possible. The push chain is ideally driven electrically via an electric motor. This electric motor can be assigned to just one push chain or to a push chain assembly consisting of two push chains, or it can be designed to drive multiple push chain assemblies, as explained below.

[0024] The power is preferably transmitted to the rigid chain by means of a drive gear, which meshes with a toothed structure on the rigid chain links and thereby drives the rigid chain in the extension or retraction direction. Preferably, the rigid chain has such a toothing on one drive side, which is formed by toothed structures on the drive side of the rigid chain links. It is particularly preferred that no tooth of the toothed structure be formed by two adjacent rigid chain links. Accordingly, the rigid chain links preferably have undivided teeth that are uniformly assigned to the rigid chain links.

[0025] The drive side, where the toothing is preferably provided, is aligned parallel to the plane of the rigid chain. This arrangement allows two rigid chains, which together form a rigid chain assembly, to be driven with a common gear or two gears provided on a common drive shaft.

[0026] To ensure that the push chain can be extended and retracted with minimal friction, it preferably has a sliding surface with which it rests against a wall of a housing of a push chain module prior to extension. The sliding surface is preferably largely or completely free of steps or elevations. Preferably, it is completely flat. The sliding surface is preferably arranged opposite the drive side, so that the contact force of the gear on the tooth structure presses the push chain with the sliding surface against an inner surface of said housing.

[0027] The push chain links, especially their two link elements, can be manufactured as metal parts, for example, from steel, as is usual for push chains. With such a metallic design, it is considered particularly advantageous if the link elements are made of light metal, such as aluminum, although a steel design is also possible. In particular, they are manufactured as metal parts in the form of investment castings.

[0028] As already explained at the beginning, however, it is preferred if the rigid chain links of the rigid chain, or at least some of the rigid chain links, are manufactured as plastic parts, although pure plastic parts, for example made of polyoxymethylene, may be sufficient depending on the requirements. However, fiber-reinforced plastic is particularly preferably selected as the material for the rigid chain links. In the case of fiber-reinforced plastic, a design with glass-fiber-reinforced plastic is particularly preferably possible. In particular, this is glass-fiber-reinforced plastic in which the plastic component is formed by polyoxymethylene and the glass fiber component of the total mass of the chain link elements is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%.

[0029] The described designs of the chain link elements made of plastic or metal do not have to be uniform for a rigid chain. It can be advantageous if the rigid chain comprises different types of rigid chain links, which are adapted in particular to the specific operational requirements. In particular, these can be rigid chain links, at least one of which is predominantly made of plastic and at least one of which is predominantly made of metal, in particular aluminum. One possible advantageous design of the rigid chain provides that in the retracted state and in the extended state, in which the system remains for the majority of the time, the drive gear is in engagement with a metal toothing, while during the transition from the retracted state to the extended state the gear is in engagement with plastic toothings of the plastic rigid chain links.

[0030] As described at the outset, at least some of the push chain links of the push chain according to the invention have a structure in which the push chain link consists predominantly or entirely of two chain link elements which define the outer contour of the push chain link.

[0031] In particular, the joints by means of which two successive push chain links are pivotally connected to one another are also preferably formed entirely by these two chain link elements.

[0032] Particularly preferred is a design in which, of two consecutive and identically constructed rigid chain links, one of the rigid chain links is designed such that the chain link elements of this rigid chain link form a fork-shaped outer joint part with two mutually facing pivot guide geometries. In the case of the second of the two rigid chain links, its chain link elements or one of the two chain link elements forms an inner joint part, which has two mutually facing pivot guide geometries that engage with the pivot guide geometries of the outer joint part of the adjacent rigid chain link to achieve the joint function.

[0033] In this design, the joints are formed solely by the two chain link elements. Additional elements such as a steel axle are not required.

[0034] It is indeed possible to greatly simplify the pivot guide geometries by, for example, designing the pivot guide geometries on the outer joint part as simple cylindrical recesses and the pivot guide geometries on the inner joint part as molded-on axle sections. However, pivot guide geometries that allow a larger contact surface are advantageous. A design is considered particularly advantageous in which the pivot guide geometries of the outer joint part and / or the inner joint part have at least one circumferential guide web, preferably a plurality of concentric circumferential guide webs. In particular, the interacting pivot guide geometries on the outer joint part and on the inner joint part are each provided with at least one circumferential guide web. The inner surfaces orThe outer surfaces of these circumferential guide webs form the contact surfaces through which the compressive or tensile forces acting on the push chain are transmitted between the push chain links.

[0035] Therefore, pivot guide geometries in which at least one of the pivot guide geometries is formed jointly by both chain link elements of the respective rigid chain link have proven particularly effective. This ensures that the cohesion of both chain link elements is further promoted by their joint engagement with the adjacent one. It is also possible to introduce force into the rigid chain links directly at both chain link elements. In the case of pivot guide geometries with circumferential guide webs, it is particularly advantageous if such a guide web is formed jointly by both chain link elements.

[0036] As already explained, a rigid chain according to the invention is preferably used in a combination of two rigid chains whose chain planes coincide, but which can be bent in opposite directions in the case of only unidirectional bending. When both rigid chains are extended synchronously, they come into contact with each other and support each other. With such a combination of two rigid chains, a high degree of buckling stability can be achieved. In a rigid chain according to the invention, it can additionally be provided for this purpose that at least some of the rigid chain links have a lateral coupling body, which is preferably an integral part of one of the chain link elements. However, the coupling body can also be designed differently, in particular by being formed jointly by the two chain link elements.

[0037] Corresponding to such a coupling body, the push chain or a second push chain of the same push chain assembly of the same type that is identical or a mirror image thereof is designed to receive such coupling bodies, so that by receiving the coupling bodies of the other push chain of the push chain assembly, a positive coupling is produced that serves to synchronize the push chains and prevents separation of the push chains from one another, preferably in a positive manner.

[0038] In particular, it can be provided for this purpose that two push chain links of the push chain which are directly pivotally connected to one another define a lateral receiving space for a coupling body, wherein this receiving space is designed such that it is partially closed by bringing the two push chain links into an extended orientation with aligned longitudinal directions, so that a coupling body of another push chain which has meanwhile been retracted into the receiving space can no longer be pulled out transversely to an extension direction.

[0039] The operating concept here preferably provides that the partial change in shape of the push chain from a curved shape to an elongated shape, which usually occurs during extension, is used by using this change in shape through the associated relative displacement of two adjacent push chain links of a push chain to close the receiving space, so that a coupling body engaged here when the push chains are brought together is positively secured in the receiving space until the corresponding push chain links pivot relative to one another again during a later retraction and thereby open the receiving space again.

[0040] A further interaction between two directly adjacent rigid chain links of the same rigid chain is preferably provided in that the rigid chain links have a shape of an end face facing in the extension direction and a shape of an end face facing in the retraction direction, which are coordinated with one another in such a way that, at least in the extended state of the rigid chain links, a positive connection orthogonal to the extension direction is achieved. This means that, at least in the extended orientation of the rigid chain, one of the chain links is brought into engagement with the preceding or following chain link in such a way that the relative displacement in the direction of the pivot axis between the rigid chain links is prevented.In particular, it can be provided that the two interacting end faces of the two rigid chain links are shaped in such a way that the positive locking is orthogonal to the extension direction when the rigid chain links are in the extended state and can be canceled by bending the rigid chain links in the plane of the rigid chain for the purpose of assembly / disassembly. Thus, the positive locking of the rigid chain links in the extended orientation does not prevent the rigid chain from being assembled. The rigid chain, and in particular the rigid chain links, are assembled to one another in an angled position.

[0041] A particularly preferred design of a push chain according to the invention provides that the coupling element is coaxially aligned with a pivot axis, about which a subsequent push chain link is pivotally mounted on a push chain link. The coupling element can itself form an outer surface of a pivot pin. However, it is preferred that the outer surface of the pivot pin, which is in contact with the next push chain link, is made of plastic and is formed in particular by one of the two chain link elements. The coupling element is preferably arranged within the pivot pin.

[0042] In particular, the coupling element can be designed as a preferably metallic coupling screw. This can be used together with a corresponding coupling nut. Preferably, however, the screw engages an internal thread formed directly by a chain link element of the chain link. The thread can also be cut into the chain link element by the screw itself during the assembly process.

[0043] A further preferred variant provides for the coupling element to be designed as a fusible pin. This means that during assembly, a fusible pin is pushed through both chain link elements as a coupling element and is then, or even beforehand, sufficiently heated so that it softens or melts at least on its outer side. It can thus ensure a firm connection of the chain link elements. In addition, mechanical force can be exerted on the fusible pin, similar to a rivet, so that it deforms as a whole and thereby firmly joins the chain link elements. Mushroom-like widenings can also be created at the ends. Although the main aspect of the invention is to produce push chain links of a push chain primarily from two chain link elements that define the outer contour, in particular from chain link elements made of plastic, if necessary.supplemented by a coupling element, the invention, according to a secondary aspect, independently also relates to a push chain which consists of a plurality of push chain links which are pivotally mounted to one another and in which the push chain links each have two chain link elements which do not have to define the outer contour alone, but are potentially supplemented by a third or further component forming the outer contour.

[0044] According to this secondary aspect of the invention, the two chain link elements are connected to one another to form the push chain link and together form at least the following components of the push chain link, namely an outer joint part with two pivot guide geometries facing one another and an inner joint part with two pivot guide geometries facing away from one another for interaction with the outer joint part of the next push chain link, as well as a support structure which can absorb compressive forces between the inner joint part and the outer joint part of a push chain link.

[0045] According to this aspect of the invention, the components required for linking the push-pull chain links and for transmitting compressive forces are formed solely by the two chain link elements, preferably made of plastic. Additional components may be present for additional functions, e.g., to form coupling elements or gears.

[0046] The optional measures of the invention mentioned above for the main aspect of the invention are also applicable with regard to this secondary claim. In particular, the above-described features for designing the coupling elements made of plastic or fiber-reinforced plastic, as well as for designing the pivot joints, are also applicable to a design of the push chain according to the described secondary aspect of the invention.

[0047] In addition to a rigid chain as a whole, the invention also relates to an individual rigid chain link of such a chain, which is intended for use as part of such a rigid chain. In accordance with the main aspect of the invention, the rigid chain link according to the invention comprises two chain link elements that are fixedly coupled to one another directly or using a coupling element and jointly define the outer contour of the chain. The partial aspects described above with regard to the design and coupling of the two chain link elements naturally also apply to the individual rigid chain link.

[0048] Also encompassed by the invention is a rigid chain assembly, as already mentioned above. Such a rigid chain assembly comprises at least, and preferably exactly, two rigid chains. These two rigid chains can be extended from a storage position into a use state, whereby they are arranged and interact with each other in such a way that the extended parts of the respective rigid chains support each other. The rigid chains are of the type described above and are preferably constructed identically or as mirror images of each other.

[0049] In particular, the at least two push chains of the push chain assembly can be coordinated with one another in such a way that, as described above, the coupling bodies of one of the push chains and the corresponding receiving spaces of the other push chain create a positive connection when the push chains are extended. In the simplest case, this positive connection only acts in the extension direction and thus promotes the synchronization of the push chains and indirectly reduces the risk of the push chain assembly buckling. In an advantageous design, the positive connection acts transversely to the extension direction and thus effectively prevents the extended parts of the push chains from separating from one another.

[0050] Also encompassed by the invention is a rigid chain module. This module comprises a rigid chain assembly of the type described with at least two rigid chains, as well as a drive gear for extending the rigid chains together. In particular, the module has a single housing with rigid chain storage units for accommodating the two rigid chains.

[0051] The push-chain module can additionally have a joining area where the two push-chains are joined during extension. The joining area is preferably provided with opposing guide surfaces, by means of which the push-chain links of the push-chains are subjected to force toward each other. In particular, this can serve the purpose of inserting the coupling bodies described above into the corresponding recesses of the other push-chain.

[0052] The guide surfaces preferably each have a sliding surface made of plastic, which faces the direction of the push chains. This sliding surface serves to apply force to the chain link elements toward each other. Since a certain amount of force is required for coupling, the sliding surfaces wear out with frequent retraction and extension. To easily maintain functional capability, a measuring device can be provided for measuring the wear of the guide surfaces, in particular for measuring the wear of the plastic sliding surface.

[0053] The rigid chain module can also provide the drive system or at least part of it. For example, a drive gear and its shaft bearing can be part of the rigid chain module, in particular a drive gear that meshes with the teeth on both rigid chains simultaneously. An electric motor for driving the at least one drive gear is preferably also part of the drive module. However, it is also possible for the rigid chain module to provide only a shaft coupling and be driven via a drive shaft not belonging to the rigid chain module, which simultaneously acts on several rigid chain modules and thus drives them synchronously.

[0054] A drive system comprising a rigid chain of the type described, in particular a rigid chain assembly or a rigid chain module of the type described, can be used in many fields of application. In particular, however, the proposed design with easily manufactured and assembled rigid chain links, which can be easily manufactured as plastic parts, is suitable for areas where the mass of the drive system plays a major role. This is the case, for example, with vehicles. It is therefore considered advantageous if a slide-out arrangement for a vehicle, in particular for a caravan or mobile home, is designed in the manner described, wherein preferably at least some of the rigid chain links are made at least partially of plastic.

[0055] In such a slide-out arrangement, a vehicle-side assembly and a slide-out-side assembly are provided, which are displaced relative to one another for the purpose of extending and retracting a slide-out box, namely they are displaced towards and away from one another.

[0056] Between these assemblies, preferably at least one rigid chain and in particular a rigid chain assembly of the described type is provided, wherein preferably several rigid chain assemblies are provided, in particular preferably four, namely an upper and a lower rigid chain assembly on each side of the slide-out box. In particular, the drive system can be attached to the aforementioned assemblies in such a way that extending the at least one rigid chain assembly retracts the slide-out box, and retracting the rigid chain assembly extends the slide-out box.

[0057] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] Further advantages and aspects of the invention emerge from the claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, which are explained below with reference to the figures.

[0059] Fig. 1A and 1B show a motorhome with a slide-out box.

[0060] Fig. 2 shows the slide-out box in a side view together with the drive system provided for it.

[0061] Fig. 3 shows a push chain module of the drive system according to Fig. 2.

[0062] Fig. 4 shows a rigid chain assembly of the rigid chain module according to Fig. 3.

[0063] Fig. 5A to 5C show a single push chain link of the push chains of the push chain assembly in different perspectives.

[0064] Fig. 6 illustrates the structure of the push chain link consisting of two chain link elements and a coupling element.

[0065] Fig. 7A and 7B show the two chain link elements and their contact surfaces.

[0066] Fig. 8A and 8B show an alternative shape of the contact surfaces to Fig. 7A and 7B.

[0067] Fig. 9 to 11 show an alternative design of push chain links.

[0068] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0069] Figs. 1A and 1B show a vehicle 100, in this case a mobile home, whose vehicle interior 110 can be enlarged when the vehicle 100 is stationary by extending a slide-out box 130, as shown in Fig. 1B. This slide-out box 130 is slidably mounted in a slide-out recess of a side wall 120 of the vehicle 100. A drive system 150 is used to retract and extend the slide-out box 130.

[0070] Fig. 2 shows the slide-out arrangement 140, consisting of the slide-out box 130 and the drive system 150. The drive system 150 comprises two push-chain modules 10 on each side of the slide-out box 130. On each side of the slide-out box 130, a common electric motor 152 is provided, which is in engagement with drive gears 16 of both push-chain modules 10 on the respective side via a drive shaft 154, so that push-chain assemblies 14 of both push-chain modules 10 can be extended synchronously.

[0071] Fig. 3 shows a separate illustration of a rigid chain module 10. The rigid chain modules 10 each have a module housing 15 that provides a rigid chain storage unit 19 for each of the two rigid chains 20. When the rigid chains 20 are extended, they are brought together in a joining area 17 and connected to one another there, from where they can be extended as a coupled rigid chain assembly 14. The rigid chains 20 are never fully extended. Preferably, even in the extended end position of the rigid chains 20, they are still located as individual rigid chain links in the respective rigid chain storage units 19. Wherever the extension of the rigid chains is described in this description, this refers to a partial extension.

[0072] The module housing 15 of the push-chain module 10 is attached to the inside of the side wall 120 as shown in Fig. 2. The module housing 15 thus represents a vehicle-side assembly 142 of the push-chain module 10. The distal end of the push-chain assembly 14 represents the opposite slide-out-side assembly 144. Extending the push chains 20 causes the slide-out box 130 to retract. Retracting the push chains 20, i.e., partially relocated into the respective push-chain storage unit 19, causes the slide-out box 130 to extend.

[0073] The push chains 20 themselves each consist of a strand of interlinked push chain links 50, as can be seen from Fig. 3 and in particular Fig. 4. The push chain links 50 each have a toothing 24 on a drive side 55 facing forward in Figs. 3 and 4. The drive gears 16, which are driven via the common drive shaft 154, are each in engagement with the toothing 24 of both push chains 20 belonging to a push chain assembly 14. In this way, the two push chains can be extended and retracted completely synchronously. Fig. 4 shows the push chain assembly 14, with some push chain links 50 hidden for illustrative purposes.It can be seen here in particular that the push chains 20 have coupling bodies 52 facing each other in their already extended area and that in the extended state of the push chain, receiving spaces 54 are provided for receiving such coupling bodies 52.

[0074] When the push chains 20 are extended, the part of the respective push chains stored in the push chain storage 19 is guided into the joining area 17 and deflected there by 90 degrees. During this deflection phase, the coupling bodies 52 on both push chains 20 move into the still open receiving spaces 54 of the other push chain and thus hook together like a zipper. During the then continued joint and parallel movement in the extension direction, the push chains are then secured against separation transverse to the extension direction. In addition, the push chains 20 are also secured against displacement against one another in the extension direction. Thus, the already extended portions of the push chains 20 are firmly connected to one another and are well suited for transmitting compressive forces. In the usual load situations described here, in particular when the slide-out box 130 is retracted and extended, there is no risk of buckling.

[0075] The structure of the individual push chain links is explained using Figs. 5A to 8C.

[0076] Fig. 5A to 5C show a single rigid chain link 50 from different perspectives. The rigid chain link 50 has a first end, relative to its longitudinal direction 2, at which a fork-like outer joint part 56A is formed. A corresponding inner joint part 56B is formed at the opposite second end.

[0077] The outer joint part 56A has two mutually facing pivot guide geometries 58, each formed by two circular guide webs. The inner joint part 56B has two corresponding pivot guide geometries 59 facing away from each other, each having a circular guide web. The pivot guide geometries 58, 59 are designed to interlock to establish the joint function. The described guide webs provide a comparatively large contact surface, suitable for transmitting high compressive and tensile forces.

[0078] The end faces of the rigid chain links 50 are shaped in such a way that they only allow two adjacent rigid chain links 50 to bend from the extended position in one direction and prevent them from bending in the opposite direction. Furthermore, the end faces of the rigid chain links are shaped to support adjacent rigid chain links 50. At one end of the rigid chain link 50, in this case at the end of the fork-shaped outer joint part 56A, two webs 60 are provided that extend in the chain plane. Correspondingly, two grooves 61 are provided at the other end of the rigid chain link 50, in this case at the end of the inner joint part 56B. When the rigid chain links 50 are angled relative to one another, which is also the assembly position of the rigid chain links 50, the webs 60 and the grooves 61 are spaced apart from one another so that these structures do not interfere with assembly.

[0079] However, when the push chains 20 buckle in the joining area 17, the webs 60 engage with the grooves 61, so that the fork-shaped outer joint part 56A is effectively prevented from bending under the influence of the applied forces.

[0080] The drive side with the toothing 24 and the opposing flat sliding surface 57 can also be seen in Figs. 5A to 5C.

[0081] Fig. 6 illustrates the structure of the push chain links 50. Each push chain link 50 comprises two chain link elements 70, 80 as its main components. The two chain link elements 70, 80 are preferably formed as plastic parts, in particular as parts made of fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0082] The chain link elements 70, 80 define the outer contour of the push chain link 50. The previously described functional areas of the outer contour, which form the toothing 24, which provide the grooves 61 and webs 60 for positive coupling and which enable the joint function via the pivot guide geometries 58, 59, are each provided on one or both of the chain link elements 70, 80.

[0083] In Figs. 7A and 7B, the two chain link elements 70, 80 are each shown in isolation, wherein the contact surfaces 72, 82 can be seen in the area of ​​which the chain link elements 70, 80 abut one another in the assembled state.

[0084] It can be seen here that the contact surfaces 72, 82 do not lie in a common plane, but rather feature elevations and corresponding depressions. Such three-dimensional contact surfaces 72, 82 result in the chain link elements 70, 80 forming a particularly stable connection when coupled.

[0085] From Figs. 7A and 7B, it can also be seen that the pivot guide geometries 58, 59 are distributed across the two chain link elements 70, 80. While an inward-facing pivot guide geometry 58 is provided on each of the two chain link elements 70, 80, and an outward-facing pivot guide geometry 59 is provided solely on the chain link element 80, one of the outward-facing pivot guide geometries 59 is formed jointly by both chain link elements 70, 80. The result of this is that the chain link elements 70, 80 are additionally secured to one another as soon as the corresponding push chain link 50 is part of a push chain 20.

[0086] The main component of the coupling of the chain link elements 70, 80 to one another, however, is achieved via a coupling element 90. In the present case, this is a metallic coupling pin 90, which, after the chain link elements 70, 80 have been joined, is inserted into a pin channel 92 provided for this purpose in the longitudinal direction 2 of the push chain link 50, which extends through both chain link elements 70, 80. Together with the contoured contact surfaces 72, 82 and the webs 60 and grooves 61 that support the coupling of the chain link elements 70, 80 during operation, a very stable push chain link 50 is provided, which can absorb the forces occurring in many applications.

[0087] In the context of the vehicle 100 mentioned above and the slide-out box 130 therein, a drive system 150 with four push chain connections 14 is suitable for extending and retracting the slide-out box, wherein the total mass of the slide-out system is low compared to known systems.

[0088] Fig. 9 and 10 show a different design of the push chains 20. Fig. 9 shows a section of two push chain links 50 of both push chains 20.

[0089] The push chain links 50 have a fundamentally similar structure: As with the push chain links of Figs. 5A to 5C, the push chain links 50 of Figs. 9 and 10 consist of two chain link elements 70, 80, which are connected by means of a coupling element 90. In this design, however, the coupling element 90 is designed as a screw and extends coaxially to the pivot axis of the push chain links 50.

[0090] Fig. 10 shows the three individual parts of the push chain links 50 of one push chain 20 and its two chain link elements 70, 80 as well as the coupling screw 90. Fig. 11 shows the chain link element 70 from below.

[0091] As can be seen from Fig. 11, the chain link element 70 has a shape of its contact surface 72 with a protrusion that engages with a corresponding recess in the contact surface 82 of the chain link element 80. Additionally, the chain link elements 70, 80 interlock by virtue of a sleeve 84 formed on the chain link element 80, which engages with a sleeve 74 of the chain link element 70. The sleeves 74, 84 form a pivot pin that engages with a corresponding pivot bearing of the next chain link 50.

[0092] The chain link elements 70, 80 are held together by means of the coupling screw 90, which is inserted from the side of the chain link element 70 and creates a threaded connection with the inside of the sleeve 84.

[0093] The chain link elements 70, 80 are thus immovably fixed to one another transversely to the pivot axis by their shape and are firmly joined together in the area of ​​the pivot axis by the coupling screw 90. Due to its coaxial arrangement with the pivot axis, the coupling screw 90 simultaneously serves to stabilize the pivot axis.

Claims

Patent claims 1. A push chain (20) having the following features: a. the push chain (20) consists of a plurality of push chain links (50) which are pivotally mounted to one another and which, when the push chain (20) is extended in an extension direction (4A), are oriented in a longitudinal direction (2) of the push chain links (50), and b. the push chain links (50) each have two chain link elements (70, 80) which are fixedly coupled to one another directly or using a coupling element (90) and together define the outer contour of the push chain link (50).

2. Push chain (20) according to claim 1 with the following further feature: a. the coupling element (90) is designed in the form of a coupling pin (90), in particular in the form of a metallic coupling pin (90) which is arranged in a pin channel (92) which extends through both chain link elements (70, 80), preferably with the following additional features: b. the pin channel (92) extends in the longitudinal direction (2) of the push chain link (50) and / or c. the pin channel (92) extends in a direction of extension (3), wherein the chain link elements (70, 80) of the push chain link (50) are positively coupled to one another with respect to this direction of extension (3) by their respective shape, at least with respect to one relative displacement direction and preferably with respect to both relative displacement directions.

3. A push chain (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, having at least one of the following additional features: a. the push chain links (50) each have an outer contour by which the pivoting mobility of two directly coupled push chain links in a chain plane of the push chain (20) in a bending direction beyond the extended position with a parallel longitudinal direction (2) is prevented, and / or b. the push chain links (50) each have an outer contour by which the pivoting mobility of two directly coupled push chain links in a chain plane of the push chain (20) is limited to an angle of less than 100°, preferably to 90°, compared to an extended orientation.

4. A push chain (20) according to one of the preceding claims, with the following additional feature: a. the contact surfaces (72, 82) on the two chain link elements (70, 80), in which the chain link elements (70, 80) each rest against the other chain link element (80, 70), have a three-dimensional shape deviating from the plane, preferably with the following additional feature: b. the chain link elements (70, 80) have a shape by which they are positively secured against relative displacement in the longitudinal direction of the push chain in the assembled state.

5. A push chain (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, having the following additional features: a. the push chain (20) has a toothing (24) on a drive side, and b. the toothing (24) is formed by tooth structures on a drive side (55) of the push chain links (50), and preferably having at least one of the following additional features: c. the tooth structures of two adjacent push chain links (50) do not have a tooth that is formed jointly by the two tooth structures, and / or d. a sliding surface (57) is provided on a side opposite the drive side.

6. A push chain (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, having the following additional feature: a. the push chain (20) has at least one push chain link (50) which is predominantly made of plastic, wherein preferably the two chain link elements (70, 80) are made entirely of plastic or fiber-reinforced plastic, in particular having the following additional feature: b. the chain link elements (70, 80) are made of glass fiber-reinforced plastic, wherein in particular a plastic portion consists of polyoxymethylene and / or a glass fiber portion of a total mass of the chain link elements (70, 80) is at least 30%.

7. A push chain (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, having the following further feature: a. the push chain (20) has at least one push chain link (50) which consists predominantly of light metal, in particular aluminum, or which has been manufactured as an investment casting, in particular of steel.

8. A push chain (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, having the following additional feature: a. the push chain (20) has at least two push chain links (50) made of different materials, preferably having the following additional features: b. at least one push chain link (50) consists predominantly of plastic, and c. at least one push chain link (50) consists predominantly of metal, in particular aluminum.

9. A push chain (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, having the following additional features: a. the push chain (20) has at least two push chain links (50) directly pivotally connected to one another, b. the chain link elements (70, 80) of a first of the at least two push chain links (50) form a fork-shaped outer joint part (56A) with two pivot guide geometries (58) facing one another, and c. the chain link elements (70, 80) of a second of the at least two push chain links (50) form an inner joint part (56B) with two pivot guide geometries (59) facing away from one another, which engage with the pivot guide geometries (58) of the outer joint part (56A) of the first push chain link (50).

10. A push chain (20) according to claim 9 with the following additional feature: a. the pivot guide geometries (58, 59) of the outer joint part (56A) and / or the inner joint part (56B) have at least one circumferential guide web, preferably a plurality of concentric circumferential guide webs, preferably with the following additional feature: b. at least one pivot guide geometry (58, 59) of the outer joint part (56A) or the inner joint part (56B) is formed jointly by both chain link elements (70, 80).

11. A push chain (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, having at least one of the following further features: a. at least some of the push chain links (50) have a lateral coupling body (52), which is preferably an integral part of one of the chain link elements (80), and / or b. two directly pivotally connected push chain links (50) define a lateral receiving space (54) for a coupling body (52), wherein this receiving space (54) is designed such that it is partially closed by bringing the two push chain links (50) into an extended orientation, so that a coupling body (52) of another push chain (20) retracted therein can no longer be pulled out transversely to an extension direction.

12. A rigid chain (20) according to one of the preceding claims, with the following additional feature: a. the rigid chain links (50) have a shape of an end face pointing in the extension direction (4A) and a shape of an end face pointing in the retraction direction (4B), which are coordinated with one another such that, at least in the extended state of the rigid chain links (50), a positive connection orthogonal to the extension direction (4A) is achieved, preferably with the following additional feature: b. the end faces pointing in the extension direction (4A) and the end faces pointing in the retraction direction (4B) of the rigid chain links (50) are shaped such that the positive connection orthogonal to the extension direction (4A) is achieved in the extended state of the rigid chain links (50) and can be canceled by bending the rigid chain links (50) in the chain plane of the rigid chain (20) for the purpose of assembly / disassembly.

13. A push chain (20) according to any one of claims 2 to 12, having the following further feature: a. the push chain links (50) are pivotably mounted on a respective adjacent push chain link (50) about a pivot axis, and b. the coupling element (90) is provided coaxially to the pivot axis.

14. Push chain (20) according to one of claims 2 to 13 with the following further feature: a. the coupling element (90) is designed as a coupling screw.

15. A push chain (20) according to one of claims 2 to 14 with the following further feature: a. the coupling element (90) is designed as a melting pin.

16. A push chain (20), in particular according to one of the preceding claims, with the following features: a. the push chain (20) consists of a plurality of push chain links (50) which are pivotally mounted to one another, and b. the push chain links (50) each have two chain link elements (70, 80) which are connected to one another to form a push chain link and together form the following components of the push chain link (50): an outer joint part (56A) with two pivot guide geometries (58) facing one another, and an inner joint part (56B) with two pivot guide geometries (59) facing away from one another for interaction with the outer joint part (56A) of the next push chain link (50), and a support structure which can absorb compressive forces between the inner joint part (56B) and the outer joint part (56A) of a push chain link.

17. A push chain link (50) for a push chain according to claims 1 to 16, with the following further feature: a. the push chain link (50) has two chain link elements (70, 80) which are fixedly coupled to one another directly or using a coupling element (90) and together define the outer contour of the push chain link (50).

18. A push chain assembly (14) having the following features: a. the push chain assembly (14) has at least two push chains (20), and b. the at least two push chains (20) can be arranged by an extension process in such a way that they support each other, and characterized by the following feature: c. the push chains (20) are designed according to one of claims 1 to 13, preferably with at least one of the following features: d. the at least two push chains (20) have corresponding coupling geometries (52, 54) which, in the coupled state, are positively secured to one another and thus counteract a separation of the push chains (20) transversely to an extension direction (4A), and / or e. the at least two push chains (20) each have a toothing (24) on a drive side (55), wherein the drive sides (55) of the at least two push chains (20) point in the same direction and wherein the toothing (24) of both push chains (20) are aligned with one another across the push chains (20).

19. A push chain module (10) having the following features: a. the push chain module (10) has a push chain assembly (14) with at least two push chains (20), and b. the push chain module (10) has a push chain storage unit (19) for each push chain (20) for receiving the push chain (20) in a retracted state, and c. the push chain module (10) has at least one drive gear (16) for jointly extending the push chains (20), characterized by the following feature: d. the push chain assembly (14) is designed according to claim 18, preferably with at least one of the following additional features: e. the push chain module (10) has a joining area (17) in the area of ​​which the two push chains (20) are joined during extension, wherein opposing guide surfaces are provided in the joining area (17), by means of which guide surfaces the push chain links (50) of the push chains (20) are subjected to force towards each other, wherein the guide surface preferably has a sliding surface made of plastic which faces in the direction of the push chains (20), and / or a measuring device is provided for measuring a wear condition of the guide surfaces, in particular for measuring the wear condition of the sliding surface made of plastic, and / or f. the push chain module (10) has a common drive gear (16) for driving at least two push chains (20), which drive gear is in engagement with a push chain link (50) of each of the at least two push chains (20).

20. A slide-out arrangement (140) for a vehicle, comprising the following features: a. the slide-out arrangement (140) comprises a vehicle-side assembly (142) for attachment to the chassis of the vehicle, and b. the slide-out arrangement (140) comprises a slide-out-side assembly (144) for attachment to a slide-out box (130), and c. the slide-out arrangement (140) comprises a drive system (150) by means of which the vehicle-side assembly (142) and the slide-out-side assembly (142) can be moved relative to one another, characterized by the following feature: d. the drive system (150) comprises at least one push chain (20) according to one of claims 1 to 16.

21. Vehicle (100), in particular a mobile home, with a slide-out arrangement having the following features: a. the vehicle (100) has a vehicle interior (110), and REVISED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP b. the vehicle (100) has a slide-out arrangement (140) with a slide-out box (130) which is displaceable between a storage end position in which an outer side of the slide-out box (130) is substantially flush with the surrounding side wall, and a use end position in which the slide-out box (130) is extended outwards to enlarge the vehicle interior (110), characterized by the following additional feature: c. the slide-out arrangement (140) is designed according to claim 17.

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