A welding fixture for a frame, a combination of a welding fixture and frame, a frame for use with the welding fixture, use of such a welding fixture and a method for welding a frame to a partition

Abstract

A welding fixture (30) for installation of a frame (15) in an opening of a partition (21). The welding fixture (30) comprises a first fixture element (31), a second fixture element (32) and an axially extending compression device (33) movably connecting the first fixture element (31) with the second fixture element (32) for clamping opposite first and second surfaces (23, 24) of the frame (15) between the first and second fixture elements (31, 32). The first fixture element (31) has first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) for engaging the first surface (23) of the frame, wherein the first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) are, in a direction radially outward, inclined towards the second fixture element (32). Disclosed is also the frame and a combination of the welding fixture and the frame. Disclosed is also uses of the welding fixture and methods for welding the frame to the partition.

Description

[0001] A WELDING FIXTURE FOR A FRAME, A COMBINATION OF A WELDING FIXTURE AND FRAME, A FRAME FOR USE WITH THE WELDING FIXTURE, USE OF SUCH A WELDING FIXTURE AND A METHOD FOR WELDING A FRAME TO A PARTITION

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present invention is related to a welding fixture for a frame. More specifically the present invention is related to a welding fixture for installation of a frame in an opening of a partition, wherein the welding fixture comprises a first fixture element, a second fixture element and a compression device having an axis and movably connecting the first fixture element with the second fixture element in an axial direction for clamping opposite first and second surfaces of the frame between the first and second fixture elements, and wherein the first fixture element has a first engagement surface for engaging a first portion of the first surface of the frame, and a second engagement surface for engaging a second portion of the first surface of the frame. Frames of this type are welded to a partition to form part of a transit system for leading cables and / or pipes through the partition.

[0004] The present invention is also related to a combination of such a welding fixture and frame. The present invention is also related to the use of such a welding fixture for welding a frame to a partition. The present invention is also related to a method for welding a frame to a partition using the welding fixture. The present invention is also related to a method for providing a transit system for leading cables and / or pipes through a partition.

[0005] Background

[0006] A plurality of welding fixtures for welding a frame to a partition is known in the prior art. One such prior art welding fixture is disclosed in WO2015 / 190977, which describes a welding fixture for size fixing a frame, such as a frame for a transit system for leading cables and pipes through a partition. Transit systems are used for leading cables and pipes through partitions, such as walls, floors and ceilings. Transit systems are used in many different environments, including cabinets, junction boxes, machines and similar, and for different industrial applications, such as for automotive and rolling stock applications, communication, power generation and distribution as well as marine and off-shore applications. Transit systems are often required to have a sealing function, e.g. sealing against different types of liquids, such as water, and / or gases, such as air, depending on the application. To provide a fastening and / or sealing function the cables or pipes are generally arranged in a through opening of a sealing module. One common type of such a module comprises two opposite module halves arranged around the cable or pipe, wherein the modules are arranged in a frame arranged in an opening in the partition. The modules in the frame are then compressed by means of a compression unit to press the modules against the inside of the frame, against each other if applicable, and against the cables or pipes in the modules to fasten the modules and the cables or pipes and seal the transit. The transit system may be arranged to seal against liquid, such as water, gas, fire, rodents, termites, dust, moisture, etc. The transit system and the modules are, for example, arranged for receiving cables for electricity, communication, computers, etc. or pipes for different gases or liquids, such as water, compressed air, hydraulic fluid and cooking gas.

[0007] To obtain the transit system, the frame is sometimes welded to the partition. The frame and the partition is often of metal. During the welding process heat is transferred to the frame causing the frame to deform and often expand in an undesired way. If the inner and outer dimensions of the frame change, the sealing, both between the frame and the partition and within the frame, may be affected and after installation not have the desired sealing properties. The welding fixture of WO2015 / 190977 reduces deformation of the frame due to the welding process. However, there is a need to further improve the welding fixtures of prior art and facilitate the welding process for welding the frame to the partition.

[0008] Summary

[0009] In view of the above, one object of the present invention is to provide a welding fixture for a frame, such as a frame for a transit system for leading cables and pipes through a partition, that is easy to use and results in an efficient welding process while preventing deformation of the frame.

[0010] The present invention is related to a welding fixture for installation of a frame in an opening of a partition, wherein the welding fixture comprises a first fixture element, a second fixture element and an axially extending compression device movably connecting the first fixture element with the second fixture element for clamping opposite first and second surfaces of the frame between the first and second fixture elements, wherein the first fixture element has first and second engagement surfaces for engaging the first surface of the frame, characterised in that the first and second engagement surfaces are, in a direction radially outward, inclined towards the second fixture element. The first and second engagement surfaces of the first fixture element are inclined to prevent movement and deformation of the frame in a direction radially outward while simultaneously preventing axial movement and deformation of the frame. The first surface of the frame can, e.g. be one of a front and rear side of the frame, wherein the second surface is the opposite side. Alternatively, the first surface can be a surface in an interior slot of the frame. Hence, the welding fixture prevents or reduces changes in shape and size of the frame both in the radial and axial directions without having to engage an exterior of the frame at the rear and / or front side of the frame, which otherwise may obstruct during the welding process. Hence, the inclination of the first and second surfaces of the first fixture element makes it possible to facilitate the welding of the frame to the partition in at least the same side of the partition as the first fixture element. Preventing deformation of the frame may improve sealing properties of a transit system for leading cables and pipes through the partition, wherein the transit system comprises the frame and sealing modules arranged in a through opening of the frame together with a compression device for compressing the sealing modules with cables or pipes arranged therein. In addition, facilitated welding on one or both sides of the frame may result in a stronger installation and may improve both the strength and also the sealing properties of the installation or the transit system. The frame and / or the partition can be of metal, such as steel or aluminum. Alternatively, the frame and / or the partition are of other materials that can be welded, such as plastic or composite materials. The first fixture element has a first side and an opposite second side, wherein the first side is provided with the first engagement surface and the second side is provided with the second engagement surface. The first engagement surface can be arranged for engaging a first side of a first frame wall, wherein the second engagement surface can be arranged for engaging a corresponding first side of a second frame wall arranged in parallel to the first frame wall. The first side of the frame walls may form part of the rear side or front side of the frame, of a combination of the welding fixture and the frame and of a transit system comprising the frame. Alternatively, the first engagement surface can be arranged for engaging a side of an interior slot in the first frame wall, wherein the second engagement surface can be arranged for engaging a corresponding interior slot in the second frame wall.

[0011] The first and second engagement surfaces can extend to opposite outer edges of the first fixture element and thus form the outer periphery of at least two opposite and parallel sides of the first fixture element, so that the first fixture element does not enclose or engage an axially extending exterior surface of the frame. Hence, the exterior surface of the frame may be left unobstructed to facilitate welding of the frame to the partition, at least from the same side as the first fixture element. In addition, the first and second engagement surfaces can cooperate with interior slots of the frame for clamping thereof.

[0012] The first and second engagement surfaces can be connected to inner support surfaces for supporting an interior surface of the frame. Each inner support surface can extend substantially in an axial plane for abutting and supporting an interior surface of the frame. The interior surfaces of the frame extend in axial planes. Hence, the first fixture element is formed with a radial protrusion in opposite sides, wherein the protrusions have the first and second engagement surfaces. The radial protrusions terminate at least two opposite sides of the first fixture element. Hence, the outer peripheries of the first fixture element in at least two opposite sides are formed by the radial protrusions having the first and second engagement surfaces.

[0013] The second fixture element can be arranged with inclined engagement surfaces similar to and opposite the ones of the first fixture element. Alternatively, the engagement surfaces of the second fixture element extend in a radial plane, e.g. in a conventional manner. The engagement surfaces of the second fixture element can be arranged in recesses in the second fixture element opposite the first and second engagement surfaces of the first fixture element. Hence, the recesses may enclose the second surface of the frame and also engage inner and outer surfaces of the frame for efficient fixation thereof.

[0014] The first fixture element can be a first plate element extending in a first plane, wherein the second fixture element can be a second plate element extending in a second plane parallel to the first plane and perpendicular to the axial direction. Hence, the first and second fixture elements can efficiently clamp and hold the frame to prevent deformation thereof.

[0015] Disclosed is also a combination of a welding structure and a frame, wherein the combination comprises the welding structure according to the present invention and a frame for installation in an opening of a partition, wherein the frame comprises a first surface and an opposite second surface, wherein the first surface of the frame, in a direction outward, is inclined towards the second surface of the frame. Hence, the first surface of the frame is inclined to cooperate with the inclined first and second engagement surfaces of the first fixture element for fixing the frame and prevent both axial and outward radial deformation of the frame without the need for the first fixture element to extend over to the exterior surface of the frame. At least two opposite frame walls are provided with the inclined first surface. For example, the inclined first surface of the frame extends continuously around the entire circumference of the frame. The second surface of the frame may be inclined in a similar way or may extend in a radial plane.

[0016] The present invention is also related to a frame for use with the welding fixture, wherein the frame comprises a first surface and an opposite second surface, wherein the first surface of the frame, in a direction outward, is inclined towards the second surface of the frame. Hence, the inclined first surface of the frame can cooperate with the inclined first and second engagement surfaces of the welding fixture to prevent both axial and radial deformation of the frame. The present invention is also related to a use of a welding fixture for welding a frame, such as a frame of a transit system for leading cables and pipes through a partition, to a partition.

[0017] The present invention is also related to a method for welding a frame to a partition, comprising the steps of a) bringing inclined first and second engagement surfaces of a first fixture element of a welding fixture into contact with an inclined first surface of the frame, b) bringing a second fixture element of the welding fixture into contact with a second surface of the frame opposite the first surface thereof, c) clamping the opposite first and second surfaces of the frame between the first and second fixture elements by a compression device of the welding fixture, the compression device having an axis and movably connecting the first fixture element with the second fixture element in an axial direction, d) arranging the welding fixture and the frame in an opening in the partition, e) welding the frame to the partition while the frame is connected to the welding fixture, and preventing outward movement of the frame during welding by means of the inclined first and second engagement surfaces engaging the inclined first surface of the frame, and f) after welding of the frame to the partition, removing the welding fixture from the frame.

[0018] The method can comprise the step of, in step e), welding the frame to the partition in a side of the partition where the first fixture element is arranged.

[0019] The present invention is also related to a method for providing a transit system for leading cables and / or pipes through a partition, comprising the steps of the welding method and also the steps of arranging at least one compressible sealing module in the frame, arranging a cable or a pipe in the sealing module, and arranging a compression device in the frame and compressing the at least one sealing module with the cable or pipe by means of the compression device.

[0020] Further objects and advantages of the present invention will be clear to a person skilled in the art when reading the detailed description below. of the Drawings

[0021] The invention will be described further below by way of embodiment examples and with reference to the enclosed drawings, in which:

[0022] Fig. l is a schematic front view of a transit system according to one example, which transit system comprises a frame, sealing modules, optional stayplates and a compression unit, wherein cables are arranged through some of said sealing modules, and wherein the frame is attached to a partition through a welding joint,

[0023] Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a sealing module half for a transit system according to one example,

[0024] Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a frame according to one embodiment,

[0025] Fig. 4 is a schematic section view of the frame according to Fig. 3 connected to a partition through weld joints on both sides of the partition,

[0026] Fig. 5 is a schematic section view of the frame according to another embodiment connected to a partition through weld joints on both sides of the partition,

[0027] Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view of a combination of the welding fixture and the frame according to one embodiment, seen from a first side,

[0028] Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the combination of the welding fixture and the frame according to Fig. 6, seen from a second side,

[0029] Fig. 8 is a schematic section view of the combination of the welding fixture and the frame of Figs. 6 and 7,

[0030] Fig. 9 is a schematic section view of a portion of the frame of Fig. 8,

[0031] Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a combination of the welding fixture and the frame according to another embodiment, seen from a front side,

[0032] Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of the combination of the welding fixture and the frame according to Fig. 10, seen from a rear side, Fig. 12 is a schematic section view of the combination of the welding fixture and the frame of Figs. 10 and 11, and

[0033] Fig. 13 is a schematic section view of a portion of the frame of Fig. 12.

[0034] Description of Embodiments

[0035] With reference to Fig. 1, a transit system 10 for passing at least one cable 11 and / or at least one pipe through a partition is illustrated schematically according to one example. The transit system 10 is arranged for passing one or more cables 11 and / or pipes through a partition in the form of a wall, a floor, a roof or a ceiling. The partition is indicated in Fig. 1 by means of a dashed line and reference number 21. For example, the transit system 10 is arranged for passing cables 11, such as cables for electricity, communication, computers etc., or pipes for different gases or liquids, such as water, compressed air, hydraulic fluid, cooking gas or other types of liquids or gases. Cables and / or pipes are led in an axial direction through the transit system 10. The transit system 10 is arranged at a through opening in the partition 21 and is attached to the partition, e.g. by fastening means of a welding joint 22. For example, the partition is made of metal, such as steel, aluminium or other suitable metal. Alternatively, the partition is made of a composite material, including plastic or metal materials, wherein the transit system 10 is attachable to the partition 22 by wedling.

[0036] The transit system 10 comprises one or more sealing modules 12, a compression unit 13, optionally one or more stayplates 14, and a frame 15 for receiving the sealing modules 12 and the compression unit 13 and, if applicable, the stayplates 14. The sealing modules 12 may be arranged in different sizes and a plurality of different sealing modules 12 may be arranged in different configurations, which is illustrated in Fig. 1. For example, the sealing modules 12, stayplates 14 and the compression unit 13 are of conventional type. For example, the sealing modules 12 are resilient and comprises two opposite module halves 16, wherein each module half 16 comprises a plurality of optional peelable sheets 17 placed in a semi-cylindrical groove 18 as illustrated in Fig. 2. Optionally, a suitable number of peelable sheets 17 are removed to adapt the sealing module 16 to the diameter of the cable or pipe, wherein the cable 11 or pipe is placed in the module half 16 and a sealing module 13 is formed by placing two module halves 16 on top of each other. The module half 16 also comprises outer surfaces for abutting the frame 15, a stayplate 14 and / or adjacent sealing modules 12. The sealing modules 12 are resilient, and are for example made of natural or synthetic rubber, such as an EPDM rubber, optionally with additional fillers, or TPE.

[0037] For example, the compression unit 13 is a conventional wedge comprising a plurality of wedge elements, such as four wedge elements, operated by one or more compression screws 19. The compression screws 19 is, e.g. arranged to move the compression unit from a non-compressed position to a compressed position in which the compression unit 13 expands in a radial direction towards and / or away from the sealing modules 12 to press on the sealing modules 12 and optionally also on the frame 15.

[0038] The frame 15 according to Fig. 1 is arranged for receiving a plurality of the compressible sealing modules 12 for holding the cables 11 or pipes. Two of the sealing modules 12 in Fig. 1 are illustrated with a cable 11 or pipe therein in cross section and it is understood that the cable 11 or pipe continues. It is also understood that the sealing modules 12 can be provided with a conventional blind plug 20 if no cable 11 or pipe is arranged therein.

[0039] The stayplates 14 are arranged to prevent displacement of the sealing modules 12 in the axial direction. The stayplates 14 are arranged between sealing modules 12, such as between rows of sealing modules, or between a sealing module 12 or a row of sealing modules and the frame 15 and are arranged to abut front and rear sides of the frame 15 to prevent axial displacement. For example, the stayplates 14 are arranged horizontally.

[0040] With reference to Fig. 3, the frame 15 is illustrated according to one embodiment. The frame 15 is, e.g. for the transit system 10 as described above. The frame 15 comprises the axially extending through opening for receiving the sealing modules 12, compression unit 13 and optional stayplates 14 as described with reference to Fig. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 15 has a substantially rectangular shape, optionally with rounded comers, and a substantially rectangular through opening. Hence, the frame 15 has four interconnected walls, wherein first and third walls are arranged in parallel to each other and being connected to each other through second and fourth walls arranged in parallel to each other.

[0041] The frame 15 has a first surface 23 and a second surface 24. The first and second surfaces 23, 24 form the rear and front sides of the frame 15 in the embodiment of Fig. 3. For example, the first surface 23 forms the rear side of the frame 15, wherein the second surface 24 forms the front side of the frame 15.

[0042] The frame 15 in the embodiment of Fig. 3 comprises a flange 25 for abutting against the partition 21. The flange 25 is arranged for welding to the partition 21 as illustrated in Fig. 4. In Fig. 4 the flange 25 is connected to the partition 21 by means of the welding joint 22. Hence, the flange 25 projects radially outward from an exterior surface of the frame walls. For example, the interior surface of the frame 15 is substantially flat and may be smooth or rough. The flange 25 is, e.g. of the same material as the remaining portions of the frame 15, such as metal. For example, the frame walls and the flange 25 are formed in a single integrated piece. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 25 extends continuously around the entire periphery of the frame 15. Alternatively, the flange 25 extends along the exterior of only two opposite frame walls or in increments around one or more of the frame walls. The flange 25 comprises a radially extending surface 26 for engaging the partition 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the radially extending surface 26 of the flange 25 is facing a direction opposite the second surface 24 of the frame 15. Alternatively, the radially extending surface 26 of the flange 25 is facing a direction opposite the first surface 23 of the frame 15. For example, the radially extending surface 26 of the flange 25 extends in a radial plane. The flange 25 is also formed with an optional slanted surface 27 opposite the radially extending surface 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 25 comprises an optional welding ridge 28 for at least partly melting during the welding process to at least partly form the material of the welding joint 22. Hence, the welding ridge 28 is arranged to at least contribute with material to the welding joint 22. Optionally, additional welding material may be added along with the material from the welding ridge 28 during the welding process, which additional welding material may be added in a conventional manner, such as by means of a filler metal, a consumable wire electrode or similar.

[0043] The first surface 23 of the frame 15 is, in a direction radially outward, inclined towards the second surface 24. Hence, in the direction radially outward, the first surface 23 is inclined axially inward. The first surface 23 is arranged with an angle a in relation to a radial plane. The first surface 23 extends from an inner edge of the frame 15 towards an outer edge thereof, such as all the way to the said outer edge. For example, the frame 15 is formed with a depth in the axial direction from the first surface 23 to the second surface 24 that is smaller at the exterior of the frame 15 than at the interior of the frame 15. Hence, the frame 15 is formed with a smaller exterior depth than an inner axial depth. For example, the first surface 23 is arranged with an angle a of at least 2 degrees or at least 5 degrees. For example, the angle a is maximum 45 degrees, maximum 30 degrees or maximum 20 degrees.

[0044] For example, the second surface 24 extends in a radial plane as illustrated. For example, the second surface 24 extends continuously in the radial plane from the inner edge of the frame wall to the outer edge of the frame wall. Alternatively, the second surface 24 is inclined in a similar way as described for the first surface 23. For example, the first and / or the second surfaces are formed with said inclination radially outward and axially inward.

[0045] In the embodiment of Fig. 4, the frame 15 is connected to a first side of the partition 21 through the welding joint 22 between the flange 25 and the partition 21 and to a second side of the partition opposite the first side through an optional corner welding joint 29. Hence, the comer welding joint 29 is connecting the partition 21 and the exterior of the frame 15 on the same side of the partition 21 as the first surface 23, i.e. a side opposite the flange 25 and the second surface 23. Hence, in the embodiment of Fig. 4, the frame is connected to the partition 21 through both the welding joint 22 and the corner welding joint 29. Alternatively, the frame 15 is connected to the partition 21 through the welding joint 22 only or the comer welding joint 29 only.

[0046] With reference to Fig. 5 an alternative embodiment of the frame 15 is illustrated schematically, wherein the frame 15 is connected to the partition 21 through two corner welding joints 29a, 29b. Alternatively, the frame 15 is connected to the partition 21 only through the corner welding joint 29a arranged on the same side as the inclined first surface 23 of the frame 15. Alternatively, the frame 15 is connected to the partition 21 only through the comer welding joint 29b arranged on the opposite side as the inclined first surface 23 of the frame 15. The frame 15 of Fig. 5 comprises the first and second surfaces 23, 24 as described with reference to Fig. 4 but does not comprise the flange 25. The exterior surface of the frame 15 of Fig. 5 is flat and arranged in parallel to the interior surface thereof.

[0047] With reference to Figs. 6 to 8 a welding fixture 30 is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the welding fixture 30 is connected to the frame 15 of Figs. 3 and 4. However, it is understood that the welding fixture 30 is connectable to the frame 15 of Fig. 5 and also other suitably formed frames in the same way. The welding fixture 30 is to be used in connection with the welding process for welding the frame 15 to the partition 21. For example, the welding fixture 30 is arranged to be used before, during and after the welding process for installing the frame 15 in the opening of the partition in order to retain the size properties of the frame 15 during the welding process. The welding process may involve high temperatures affecting the material of the frame 15 which can lead to unwanted deformations and size changes of the frame 15 which may be prevented by the welding fixture 30.

[0048] The welding fixture 30 comprises a first fixture element 31, a second fixture element 32 and an axially extending compression device 33 movably connecting the first fixture element 31 with the second fixture element 32 for clamping the opposite first and second surfaces 23, 24 of the frame 15 between the first and second fixture elements 31, 32. The first fixture element 31 extends from one frame wall to the opposite frame wall for holding the frame 15 at the first surface 23 of the frame 15 at said opposite frame walls. For example, the first fixture element 31 is arranged as a plate for extending between opposite frame walls. The second fixture element 32 is, e.g. arranged as a plate extending between two opposite frame walls for holding the frame 15 at the second surface 24 thereof at said opposite frame walls. The compression device 33 is arranged for moving the first and second fixture elements 31, 32 towards and away from each other in the axial direction. For example, the compression device 33 comprises a screw, such as a single screw, movably connecting the first and second fixture elements 31, 32 in a conventional manner. The screw is connected to at least one of the first and second fixture elements 31, 32 through threads for moving the first and second fixture elements 31, 32 in relation to each other by turning of the screw. Optionally, the compression device 33 also comprises a washer arranged between a screw head and one of the first and second fixture elements 31, 32. The compression device 33 is, for example, arranged centrally in the first and second fixture elements 31, 32. For example, the compression device 33 is arranged through a central hole in the first fixture element 31 and through a central hole in the second fixture element 32.

[0049] The first fixture element 31 has first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 for engaging the first surface 23 of the frame 15. The second fixture element 32 has third and fourth engagement surfaces 36, 37 for engaging the second surface 24 of the frame 15. The first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 are arranged to cooperate with the third and fourth engagement surfaces 36, 37 for clamping the frame 15 between them. Hence, the first engagement surface 34 is arranged substantially opposite the third engagement surface 36, wherein the second engagement surface 35 is arranged substantially opposite the fourth engagement surface 37. Optionally, the first engagement surface 34 is arranged in a similar way as the second engagement surface

[0050] 35, wherein the third engagement surface 36 is similar to the fourth engagement surface

[0051] 36. According to one embodiment, the third and fourth engagement surfaces 36, 37 are arranged in the same way as the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35.

[0052] The first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 are arranged inclined toward the second fixture element 32 in a direction radially outward. Hence, the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 are arranged with an angle p in relation to a radial plane. The first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 are arranged to cooperate with the inclined first surface 23 of the frame 15 to prevent displacement and deformation of the frame 15 in an outward radial direction. Simultaneously, the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 cooperate with the second fixture element 31 to prevent axial displacement and deformation of the frame 15. For example, the angle p corresponds to the angle a of the first surface 23 of the frame 15. Alternatively, the angle P is larger than the angle a. For example, the angle p is at least 2 degrees or at least 5 degrees and less than 45 degrees or less than 30 degrees.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the third and fourth engagement surfaces 36, 37 extend in a radial plane. Hence, an outer end of the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 is arranged with an axial distance to the second fixture element 32 that is smaller than the corresponding axial distance at an inner end of the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35. The outer end of the first engagement surface 34 is arranged with an axial distance to the third engagement surface 36 that is smaller than the axial distance between the inner end of the first engagement surface 34 and the third engagement surface 36, wherein the outer end of the second engagement surface 35 is arranged with an axial distance to the fourth engagement surface 37 that is smaller than the axial distance between inner end of the second engagement surface 34 and the fourth engagement surface 37.

[0054] The first fixture element 31 is arranged so as to leave the exterior side of the frame 15 unobstructed to facilitate welding of the frame 15 to the partition 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 extend to opposite outer edges of the first fixture element 31 and form an outer periphery of the first fixture element 31, wherein the first fixture element 31 is adapted to not enclose an axially extending exterior surface of the frame 15.

[0055] The first and second engagement surfaces 31, 32 are connected to inner support surfaces 38, 39 for supporting an interior surface of the frame 15 and prevent displacement and deformation of the frame 15 radially inward. For example, the inner support surfaces 38, 39 extend substantially in an axial plane, optionally tapering towards the second fixture element 32. Hence, the inner support surface 38, 39 and the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 are arranged to enclose an inner edge of the frame 15. The second fixture element 32 comprises inner support surfaces 40, 41 for supporting opposite interior axial surfaces of the frame 15. The inner support surfaces 40, 41 extend in parallel axial planes. The second fixture element 32 comprises outer support surfaces 42, 43 supporting opposite exterior axial surfaces of the frame 15. The outer support surfaces 42, 43 extend in parallel axial planes. The outer support surfaces 42, 43 are arranged opposite the inner support surfaces 40, 41 of the second fixture element 31. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner support surfaces 40, 41, the outer support surfaces 42, 43 and the third and fourth engagement surfaces 36, 37 of the second fixture element 32 are formed by first and second recesses of the second fixture element 32, wherein the first and second recesses are arranged for receiving and enclosing portions of the second surface 24 at opposite walls of the frame 15. Hence, the second fixture element 32 may be arranged to extend over the second surface 24 of the frame 15 to engage the axial exterior surface of opposite frame walls, wherein the first fixture element 31 stops before reaching the corresponding exterior surfaces. For example, the first fixture element 31 has a radial width that is smaller than the corresponding radial width of the second fixture element 32.

[0056] With reference to Figs. 10 to 12 the welding fixture 30 connected to a frame 15b is illustrated according to another embodiment of the present invention. In Fig. 13, a portion of the frame 15b is illustrated schematically in section view. In the embodiment of Figs. 10 to 12, the welding fixture 30 is as described above, optionally with the flange 25, and thus comprises the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 arranged with the angle p. The frame 15b of Figs. 10 to 13 differs from the frame 15 as described above in that the first surface 23 does not form any of the front or rear sides of the frame 15b but is instead arranged in at least one elongated and radially extending interior slot 44 of the frame 15b in a position between the front and rear sides thereof. For example, the frame 15b comprises two slots 44, one in each of two opposite and parallel frame walls. For example, the slots 44 extend from one end to the opposite end of the interior of the two opposite frame walls, wherein the slots 44 are arranged in parallel and are aligned in the axial direction. Alternatively, a single slot 44 extends continuously around the inner circumference of the frame 15b, i.e. along all four of the frame walls. For example, the slot or slots 44 is / are arranged remotely from both the front and rear sides of the frame 15, such as in axially central portions of at least the opposite frame walls. For example, the slot or slots 44 is / are elongated and extend(s) in the radial direction. The slot or slots 44 is / are arranged for receiving a radially protruding outer edge portion of the first fixture element 31 having the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35, so that the first and second engagement surfaces 34, 35 engage the first surface 23 of the slot or slots 44. After installation of the frame 15b, the slot or slots 44 may be arranged for receiving projecting portions of one or more stayplates 14 of the transit system 10.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A welding fixture (30) for installation of a frame (15) in an opening of a partition (21), wherein the welding fixture (30) comprises a first fixture element (31), a second fixture element (32) and an axially extending compression device (33) movably connecting the first fixture element (31) with the second fixture element (32) for clamping opposite first and second surfaces (23, 24) of the frame (15) between the first and second fixture elements (31, 32), wherein the first fixture element (31) has first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) for engaging the first surface (23) of the frame, characterised in that the first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) are, in a direction radially outward, inclined towards the second fixture element (32).

2. The welding fixture of claim 1, wherein an outer end of the first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) is arranged with an axial distance to the second fixture element (32) that is smaller than the corresponding axial distance at an inner end thereof.

3. The welding fixture of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) are arranged with an angle (p) to a radially extending plane of at least 2 degrees or at least 5 degrees and less than 45 degrees or less than 30 degrees.

4. The welding fixture of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) extend to opposite outer edges of the first fixture element (31), wherein the first fixture element (31) is adapted to not enclose an axially extending exterior surface of the frame (15).

5. The welding fixture of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35), in their inner ends, are connected to inner support surfaces (38, 39) for supporting an interior surface of the frame (15).

6. The welding fixture of any of the preceding claims, wherein the second fixture element (32) comprises a first recess and a second recess, wherein the first and second recesses are arranged for receiving and enclosing first and second portions of the second surface (24) of the frame, and wherein the first engagement surface (34) is arranged opposite the first recess and the second engagement surface (35) is arranged opposite the second recess.

7. The welding fixture of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first fixture element (31) has a radial width that is smaller than the corresponding radial width of the second fixture element (32).

8. The welding fixture of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first fixture element (31) is a first plate element extending in a first plane, wherein the second fixture element (32) is a second plate element extending in a second plane parallel to the first plane and perpendicular to the axial direction.

9. The welding fixture of any of the preceding claims, wherein the compression device (33) comprises a screw having an axis (A) and extends in the axial direction.

10. A combination of a welding structure (30) and a frame (15), wherein the combination comprises the welding structure (30) according to any of the preceding claims and a frame (15) for installation in an opening of a partition (21), wherein the frame (15) comprises a first surface (23) and an opposite second surface (24), wherein the first surface (23) of the frame (15), in a direction outward, is inclined towards the second surface (24) of the frame (15).

11. The combination of claim 10, wherein an axial distance between a radially outer portion of the first surface (23) of the frame (15) and the second surface (24) of the frame (15) is smaller than an axial distance between a radially inner portion of the first surface (23) and the second surface (24).

12. The combination of claim 10 or 11, wherein the first surface (23) of the frame (15) is formed with an angle (a) corresponding to an angle (p) of the first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) of the first fixture element (31).

13. The combination of any of claims 10 to 12, wherein the first surface (23) of the frame (15) is arranged in one or more slots (44) of the frame (15), wherein portions of the first fixture element (31) with the first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) are arranged in said slots (44).

14. The combination of any of claims 10 to 12, wherein the frame (15) comprises an exterior flange (25) having a radially extending surface (26) for engaging the partition (21).

15. A frame (15) for use with a welding fixture (30) according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the frame (15) comprises a first surface (23) and an opposite second surface (24), wherein the first surface (23) of the frame (15), in a direction outward, is inclined towards the second surface (24) of the frame (15).

16. The frame of claim 15, wherein the frame (15) comprises an exterior flange (25) having a radially extending surface (26) for engaging the partition (21).

17. The frame of claim 16, wherein the flange (25) is formed with a slanted surface (27) opposite the radially extending surface (26).

18. The frame of claim 17, wherein the slanted surface (27) of the flange (25) is connected to an outwardly extending welding ridge (28) adapted to melt during welding of the frame (15) to the partition (21).

19. The frame of any of claims 15 to 18, wherein the first surface (23) of the frame (15) is arranged in one or more slots (44) of the frame (15).

20. Use of a welding fixture (30) according to any of claims 1 to 9 for welding a frame (15) to a partition (21).

21. A method for welding a frame (15) to a partition (21), comprising the steps of a) bringing inclined first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) of a first fixture element (31) of a welding fixture (30) into contact with an inclined first surface (23) of the frame (15), b) bringing a second fixture element (32) of the welding fixture (30) into contact with a second surface (24) of the frame (15) opposite the first surface (23) thereof, c) clamping the opposite first and second surfaces (23, 24) of the frame (15) between the first and second fixture elements (31, 32) by a compression device (33) of the welding fixture (30), the compression device (33) having an axis (A) and movably connecting the first fixture element (31) with the second fixture element (32) in an axial direction, d) arranging the welding fixture (30) and the frame (15) in an opening in the partition (21), e) welding the frame (15) to the partition (21) while the frame (15) is connected to the welding fixture (30), and preventing outward movement of the frame (15) during welding by means of the inclined first and second engagement surfaces (34, 35) engaging the inclined first surface (23) of the frame (15), and f) after welding of the frame (15) to the partition (21), removing the welding fixture (30) from the frame (15).

22. The method of claim 21, comprising the steps of, in step d), arranging a flange (25) of the frame (15) in contact with the partition (21), and, in step e), melting an outer welding ridge (28) of the flange (25).

23. The method of claim 21 or 22, comprising the step of, before step f) welding the frame (15) to the partition (21) in a side of the partition where the first fixture element is arranged.

24. A method for providing a transit system for leading cables and / or pipes through a partition, comprising the steps of i) bringing inclined first and second engagement surfaces of a first fixture element of a welding fixture into contact with an inclined first surface of the frame, ii) bringing a second fixture element of the welding fixture into contact with a second surface of the frame opposite the first surface thereof, iii) clamping the opposite first and second surfaces of the frame between the first and second fixture elements by a compression device of the welding fixture, the compression device having an axis and movably connecting the first fixture element with the second fixture element in an axial direction, iv) arranging the welding fixture and the frame in an opening in the partition, v) welding the frame to the partition while the frame is connected to the welding fixture, and preventing outward movement of the frame during welding by means of the inclined first and second engagement surfaces engaging the inclined first surface of the frame, vi) after welding of the frame to the partition, removing the welding fixture from the frame, vii) arranging at least one compressible sealing module in the frame, viii) arranging a cable or a pipe in the sealing module, and ix) arranging a compression unit in the frame and compressing the at least one sealing module with the cable or pipe by means of the compression unit.

Images