Device for storing a chainsaw chain

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for detachably receiving and holding at least one endless chain, in particular a chainsaw chain. The device contains a carrier device, at least one receiving element for receiving a first chain portion, at least one first deflecting element for receiving a second and third chain portion, and a fixing element for receiving and holding a fourth chain portion, wherein the at least first deflecting element is configured such that the second chain portion can be positioned on the first deflecting element on a first plane and the third chain portion can be positioned on the first deflecting element on a second plane.

Description

[0001] Device for storing a chainsaw chain

[0002] Description

[0003] The present invention relates to a device for releasably picking up and holding at least one endless chain, in particular a chainsaw chain.

[0004] In woodworking, especially in forestry but also in carpentry, chainsaws are used extensively. Chainsaws are equipped with a guide bar on which the chainsaw chain, which has hook-shaped saw teeth, is guided.

[0005] Since the cutting edges of a chainsaw chain dull so severely after the first instance of misuse (i.e., accidentally cutting stones, nails, etc.) that efficient work becomes impossible and manual resharpening on-site is tedious and imprecise, chainsaw chains are very often changed on-site. Therefore, carrying at least one spare chainsaw chain is essential.

[0006] Especially when working outdoors and in locations that are difficult to access by vehicle, such as forestry work, different practices are known for carrying spare chainsaw chains.

[0007] The forestry worker can carry the chainsaw chain with him at all times, for example on his tool belt. He can carry it into the forest along with other locally needed items, such as a chainsaw, tools, a combination fuel and oil canister, or a first-aid kit, and place it within easy reach. Alternatively, he can leave the spare chainsaw chain on the means of transport, such as the forestry tractor, with which he travels to or into the forest.

[0008] There are several basic ways to store and carry a spare chainsaw chain. Often, these storage methods result in the chains being stored haphazardly, inevitably leading to knots that are difficult to untangle. This unnecessarily delays chain replacement and may interrupt chainsaw operation for an extended period.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to solve the problem described above.

[0010] This problem is solved by the subject matter of independent claim 1. The problem is solved in particular by a device for releasably picking up and holding at least one endless chain, in particular a chainsaw chain.

[0011] The dependent claims describe advantageous embodiments.

[0012] According to the invention, the device comprises a support device, at least one receiving element for receiving a first chain section, at least one first deflecting element for receiving a second and third chain section, a fixing element for receiving and holding a fourth chain section, wherein the at least first deflecting element is designed such that the second chain section can be positioned on the first deflecting element in a first plane and the third chain section in a second plane.

[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment, it may be possible for the receiving element and the fixing element to be arranged one above the other in at least one direction.

[0014] According to another advantageous embodiment, it may be possible for the fixing element to contain at least one magnet.

[0015] According to another advantageous embodiment, it may be possible for the fixing element to contain at least one clamping device.

[0016] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it may be possible that the at least one deflecting element contains at least a recess for receiving an endless chain, at least in sections.

[0017] According to a further advantageous embodiment, it may be possible to include an adjustment device by which the at least first receiving element can be positioned in at least one direction relative to the least first deflecting element.

[0018] According to another advantageous embodiment, it may be possible to include a second deflecting element for receiving a fifth and sixth chain section.

[0019] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the receiving element and the second deflection element may be arranged one above the other in at least one direction. According to a further advantageous embodiment, the fixing element and the first deflection element may be arranged one above the other in at least one direction.

[0020] The carrying device can be a supporting part of original packaging, a container that can be attached to a belt or jerrycan, or any other means for the compact and organized storage of chainsaw chains. Original packaging refers to a cover or casing in which a chainsaw chain can be offered and sold.

[0021] The carrier device forms the basis for several elements for the secure mounting and fastening of a chainsaw chain. It comprises a mounting element, a fixing element, and at least one deflection element.

[0022] The mounting element allows for the initial mounting of the chainsaw chain at a first chain section.

[0023] An advantageous design for the mounting element is a raised section positioned away from the support structure, the extent of which is greater than the width of the chainsaw chain to be mounted. This allows the chainsaw chain to be hooked onto the drive side of the first chain section, resulting in a secure initial mounting of the chainsaw chain. However, other chain mounting methods are also conceivable, such as a mechanical clamping device or a magnetic attachment.

[0024] The subsequent redirection steps exploit an unintended but inherent property of the chain. The primary function of a chain is to allow one rotational degree of freedom at each bearing point of each link. The bearing points of the chain links are designed and intended for this purpose. Since these bearing points must always accommodate a certain tolerance due to manufacturing constraints, a gap is incorporated to ensure the links' mobility under all tolerance conditions. This gap results in an additional, unintended degree of freedom. The chain can be slightly deformed perpendicular to the axis of rotational freedom by the sum of the gaps at each of the many bearing points. This slight deformability leads to surprising, three-dimensional configurations of the chain.

[0025] The first deflection element serves to redirect the chainsaw chain. In particular, due to the aforementioned slight deformability of each chain perpendicular to the axis of rotational freedom of each bearing point of each chain link, it allows for the vertically offset mounting of the chain sections to be redirected. A second chain section is deflected at the cutting section, and a third chain section is deflected at the drive section. The two chain sections are deflected on two different planes relative to the support structure, i.e., one above the other. Thus, the two deflected chain sections wrap around the deflection element in the same direction with the same bending radius and a wrap angle of approximately 180°.

[0026] Advantageously, at least the first deflection element includes a recess to receive the two chain sections and prevent them from slipping off the deflection element. In other words, the deflection element has an axial limit along the first spatial axis. The height of the recess is at least twice, but at most four, the width of the chain to be received.

[0027] The radius of the deflections in the wrapping area should not be too small, otherwise the cutting and drive elements will become entangled, impairing handling. However, the radius should also not be too large, as this would unduly increase the container's dimensions. Advantageously, the deflection elements in the wrapping area should have a radius between 5 and 15 mm, preferably between 6 and 10 mm.

[0028] The number of deflections of the chainsaw chain determines the length in the direction of the first spatial axis and the height in the direction of the second spatial axis.

[0029] A simple deflection means that after being attached to the receiving element, the chain is deflected once by approximately 180° at a deflection element and then attached to the fixing element. Advantageously, the fixing element is positioned close to the receiving element in one direction along the second spatial axis and spaced away from the receiving element in one direction along the first spatial axis.

[0030] The receiving element and the fixing element are thus arranged one above the other in at least one direction along the first spatial axis. The first and fourth chain segments are located on different planes. The two chain segments overlap in the direction of the first spatial axis. The fixing element is therefore attached above the receiving element.

[0031] A double deflection means that after being attached, the chain is first deflected by approximately 180° at the first deflection element, then deflected a second time by approximately 180° at a second deflection element, and finally attached to the fixing element. Viewed along the first spatial axis, in a double deflection setup, the fixing element is positioned above the first deflection element, and the second deflection element is positioned above the receiving element. The fixing element secures the last chain segment. Advantageously, this chain segment is fixed by a magnetic force, particularly one generated by a permanent magnet. However, the solution is not limited to this; fixing via mechanical clamping devices or a spring-loaded tensioning device is also conceivable.

[0032] According to an alternative embodiment, the endless chain can also be designed as a bicycle chain or drive chain.

[0033] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the figures. The figures illustrate various embodiments of the present invention.

[0034] The figures, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider these features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0035] They show:

[0036] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a chainsaw;

[0037] Figure 2 shows a simplified representation of a longitudinally extended chainsaw chain not mounted on the chainsaw according to one embodiment in a top view;

[0038] Figure 3 shows a side view of a chainsaw chain;

[0039] Figure 4 shows a top view of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0040] Figure 5 shows a side view of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0041] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0042] Figure 7 shows a sectional view through an advantageous embodiment of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0043] Figure 8 shows a further sectional view through an advantageous embodiment of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0044] Figure 9 Sectional view through the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0045] Figure 10 shows a first intake step of a chainsaw chain, which the device for receiving a chainsaw chain allows by its design in an embodiment with simple chainsaw chain deflection;

[0046] Figure 11 shows the side view of a first mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain.

[0047] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a first step in mounting a chainsaw chain onto the device for mounting a chainsaw chain;

[0048] Figure 13 shows a top view of a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain, which the device for mounting a chainsaw chain enables through its design in an embodiment with simple chainsaw chain deflection;

[0049] Figure 14 shows a side view of a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain; Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0050] Figure 16 shows a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain, which the device for mounting a chainsaw chain makes possible by its design in a top view;

[0051] Figure 17 shows the side view of a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0052] Figure 18 shows a perspective view of a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for mounting a chainsaw chain;

[0053] Figure 19 shows a top view of the device for holding a chainsaw chain in an embodiment with double chainsaw chain deflection;

[0054] Figure 20 shows the side view of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0055] Figure 21 shows a perspective view of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0056] Figure 22 shows a first intake step of a chainsaw chain, which the device for receiving a chainsaw chain allows by its design in an embodiment with double chainsaw chain deflection;

[0057] Figure 23 Side view of a first mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0058] Figure 24 shows a perspective view of a first step in mounting a chainsaw chain onto the device for mounting a chainsaw chain;

[0059] Figure 25 shows a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain, which the device for mounting a chainsaw chain enables through its design in an embodiment with double chainsaw chain deflection;

[0060] Figure 26 Side view of a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0061] Figure 27 shows a perspective view of a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for mounting a chainsaw chain;

[0062] Figure 28 shows a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3, which the device for mounting a chainsaw chain makes possible by its design;

[0063] Figure 29 Side view of a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0064] Figure 30 perspective view of a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain; Figure 31 top view of a fourth mounting step of a chainsaw chain, which the device for holding a chainsaw chain enables by its design in an embodiment with double chainsaw chain deflection;

[0065] Figure 32 Side view of a fourth mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0066] Figure 33 shows a perspective view of a fourth mounting step of a chainsaw chain onto the device for mounting a chainsaw chain;

[0067] Figure 34 shows a top view of a possible, injection-moldable, concrete embodiment of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0068] Figure 35 Side view of a possible, injection-moldable, concrete embodiment of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0069] Figure 36 shows a perspective view of a possible, injection-moldable, concrete design of the device for holding a chainsaw chain;

[0070] Figure 37 shows an advantageous embodiment in which the device for receiving a chainsaw chain is movably or rotatably arranged on an interface element;

[0071] Figure 38 Position in which the device for receiving a chainsaw chain is folded into an open position around the first axis of rotation, thus enabling the insertion or removal of the chain;

[0072] Figure 39 shows the first assembly step of the chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain, in which the receiving element receives the first chain section;

[0073] Figure 40 shows a second assembly step of the chainsaw chain onto the device for holding a chainsaw chain, in which the first deflecting element deflects the second and third chain sections;

[0074] Figure 41 shows a third assembly step of the chainsaw chain onto the device for receiving a chainsaw chain, in which the second deflecting element deflects the fifth and sixth chain sections;

[0075] Figure 42 shows a fourth assembly step of the chainsaw chain onto the chainsaw chain holder, in which the fixing element secures the fourth chain section; Figure 43 shows a position in which the chainsaw chain holder is moved about the first axis of rotation into a closed position (Fig. 37) in which the chain is securely and protected;

[0076] Figure 44 shows a first embodiment of the invention for an original packaging, a first packaging element in which a chainsaw chain is sold, here in a folding box design;

[0077] Figure 45 shows the first packaging element with a mounted chainsaw chain;

[0078] Figure 46 shows a first folding process of the first packaging element;

[0079] Figure 47 shows a second folding process of the first packaging element, in which the plug-in element is inserted into the clamping element, thus reliably fixing the fourth chain section of the chainsaw chain; and

[0080] Figure 48 shows the result of a third folding operation of the first packaging element, in which the first packaging is completely closed.

[0081] Figure 49 shows a second embodiment of the invention for an original packaging, a second packaging element in which a chainsaw chain is sold, here in an unfolded folding box design;

[0082] Figure 50 shows a first folding process of the second packaging element;

[0083] Figure 51 shows a second folding process of the second packaging element;

[0084] Figure 52 shows a third folding process of the second packaging element;

[0085] Figure 53 shows a fourth folding step of the second packaging element with the chainsaw chain mounted; and

[0086] Figure 54 shows a fifth folding process of the second packaging element; in which the plug-in element is inserted into the clamping element, thus reliably fixing the fourth chain section of the chainsaw chain and closing the packaging.

[0087] Examples and character descriptions:

[0088] Figure 1 shows a chainsaw 1. The chainsaw 1 essentially comprises a housing, a drive unit, and a guide bar 2. The drive unit is positioned inside the housing. A chainsaw chain 3 is mounted on the guide bar 2 and is movably arranged. The drive unit and the guide bar 2 are positioned relative to each other such that a torque generated in the drive unit can be transmitted to the chainsaw chain 3.

[0089] Figure 2 shows a simplified top view of a longitudinally extended chainsaw chain 3, not mounted on the chainsaw 1, according to one embodiment. Detail 4 shows a top view of the detailed structure of a chainsaw chain 3. The chainsaw chain 3 consists of a cutting section 5, used to cut building materials such as wood, and a drive section 6, which drives the chainsaw chain 3 from the chainsaw 1 and guides it in the guide bar 2 of the chainsaw 1.

[0090] The chainsaw chain 3 consists of a first chain section 7, a second chain section 8, a cutting section of the second chain section 11, and a drive section of the second chain section 12, and a third chain section 9 with a cutting section of the third chain section 13 and a drive section of the third chain section 14. The length L1 corresponds to the extended length of the chainsaw chain 3.

[0091] Figure 3 shows a chainsaw chain 3 in side view.

[0092] The height H1 corresponds to the height of the chainsaw chain 3. The detailed illustration 15 shows the view of the cutting part of the second chain section 11 .

[0093] Figures 4 to 18 show the device 16 for receiving a chainsaw chain 3 in a variant embodiment for a simple chainsaw chain deflection.

[0094] Figure 4 shows a top view of the device 16 for holding a chainsaw chain 3. The support structure 17 forms a base for the receiving element 19 and the first deflection element 20. The receiving element 19, at least the first deflection element 20, and the fixing element 22 are mechanically connected to each other via the support structure 17. The support structure 17 can be designed as a single piece, as shown, but is not limited to this. It can also be designed in multiple parts, for example, to allow for length adjustment to a variable length L2. The distance L2 corresponds to the distance between the receiving element 19 and the first deflection element 20.

[0095] Figure 5 shows a side view of the device 16 for receiving a chainsaw chain 3. An advantageous embodiment is shown here with a recess in the receiving element 25 and a recess in the first deflection element 25' for receiving a chainsaw chain 3. These recesses are characterized by the fact that they reliably prevent the chainsaw chain 3 from slipping in the direction of the first spatial axis A. Thus, the chainsaw chain 3 cannot slip off the receiving element 19 or the deflection element 20 and become knotted due to the action of gravity or vibrations in the direction of the first spatial axis A.

[0096] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the device 16.

[0097] The support device 17 has a first plane 18 on which the receiving element 19, the first deflection element 20, and the fixing element 22 are mounted in relief. These connections can be rigid or detachable, such as screw connections or snap-fit ​​connections. The first plane 18 of the support device 17 provides a first contact surface for receiving the chainsaw chain 3, opposite to the direction of the first spatial axis A. The direction of the first spatial axis A corresponds to the surface normal of the first plane 18 of the support device 17. The direction of the second spatial axis B lies in the first plane 18 and is formed by the line connecting the receiving element 19 and the first deflection point 20. If the receiving element 19 and the first deflection element 20 are cylindrical as shown, then the direction of the second spatial axis B corresponds to the line connecting the points where the two cylinder axes intersect the first plane 18.In the case of a non-rotationally symmetric design of the receiving element 19 and the first deflection element 20, the direction of the second spatial axis B can be formed by connecting the projection points of the respective centroids of the two elements onto the first plane 18. The distance H2 describes the distance of the fixing element 22 from the first plane 18 in the direction of the first spatial axis A.

[0098] Figure 7 shows a sectional view through an advantageous embodiment of the device 16. Here, the fixing element 22 is designed in the form of a magnet 22', but is not limited to this. The magnet 22', in particular a permanent magnet, enables, with good handling, a reliable fastening of the fourth chain section 10 in all spatial axes.

[0099] Figure 8 shows another sectional view through an advantageous embodiment of the device 16. Here, three fixing elements 22', 22" and 22'" are shown, arranged offset in the direction of B, in the form of several magnets, but this is not the only possible configuration. Embodiments with two or more than three fixing elements 22 are also conceivable. The use of several fixing elements 22', 22", 22'" offset in the direction of the second spatial axis B allows for a simple design of the device 16 without moving parts. Nevertheless, it permits the precise clamping of chainsaw chains 3 of varying lengths.

[0100] Figure 9 shows a sectional view through the device 16. An advantageous embodiment with length adjustment is shown here. In principle, the length adjustment is designed such that, in an embodiment with simple deflection of the chainsaw chain 3, the sum of the distances from the receiving element 19 to the first deflection element 20 and / or from the first deflection element 20 to the fixing element 22 can be changed. This can be achieved by arranging one or more of the elements 19, 20, 20', 22 individually or in groups so as to be slidably mounted on the support element. The direction of the translational degree of freedom essentially corresponds to the second spatial axis B.In this exemplary embodiment, the adjusting device 37 is designed such that the first deflecting element 20 is slidably mounted on the support device and can be reliably screwed to the support device by means of a screw 36 after the length L1 suitable for the chainsaw chain 3 to be accommodated has been set. The invention also includes the solution not shown, in which one or more of the elements are movably arranged on the support element, for example by means of a linear guide, and the chainsaw chain 3 is pre-tensioned at least partially in the direction of the second spatial axis B by means of an elastic element, for example a spring.

[0101] Figure 10 shows a first loading step of a chainsaw chain 3, which the device 16 allows by its design. The chainsaw chain 3 lies against the first plane 18 in the direction of the first spatial axis A. The loading element 19 receives the first chain section 7. The first deflection element 20 is tangent to the second chain section 8. Figure 11 shows the side view of a first loading step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16.

[0102] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a first step in the placement of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16 in an embodiment with simple chainsaw chain deflection.

[0103] Figure 13 shows a second winding step of a chainsaw chain 3, which the device 16 enables by its design. The second chain section 8, with its cutting part 11 on the first level 18, and the third chain section, with its drive part 14 on the second level 21, are wound around the first deflecting element 20 in the same direction, with a similar wrap angle and a similar bending radius. Figure 14 shows a side view of a second winding step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16.

[0104] Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a second step in the mounting of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16. Here it is clearly visible how the design of the device 16 deflects the chainsaw chain 3 around the first deflecting element 20 on the first and second levels 18, 21.

[0105] Figure 16 shows a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3, which the device 16 enables through its design, in a top view. The wrap angle of the second and third chain sections 8, 9 around the first deflection element 20 is approximately 180°, and the fourth chain section 10 is secured by means of the fixing element 22.

[0106] Figure 17 shows the side view of a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16.

[0107] Figure 18 shows a perspective view of the third mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16. It is clearly visible how the design of the device 16 allows the chainsaw chain 3 to be deflected around the first deflection element 20 on the first and second planes 18, 21, and enables the fourth chain section 10 to be attached to the fixing element 22 on a plane that is not the same as the plane where the first chain section 7 is mounted on the receiving element 19. The fixing element 22 secures the fourth chain section in the direction of the first spatial axis A, the second spatial axis B, and the third spatial axis C, and is ideally positioned above the receiving element 19 in the direction of the first spatial axis A. Similarly, the third chain section 9 is deflected in the direction of the first spatial axis A above the second chain section on the first deflection element 20.

[0108] Figures 19 to 53 show the device 16 in an embodiment for a double deflection of the chainsaw chain 3. This means that the chainsaw chain 3 is deflected first around a first deflection element 20 and a second time around a second deflection element 20'.

[0109] Figure 19 shows a top view of the device 16 for holding a chainsaw chain 3. The support structure 17 forms a base for the receiving element 19, a first deflection element 20, a second deflection element 20', and a fixing element 22. The receiving element 19, the first deflection element 20, the second deflection element 20', and the fixing element 22 are mechanically connected to one another via the support structure 17. The support structure 17 can be designed as a single piece, as shown, but is not limited to this. It can also be designed in multiple parts, for example, to allow for length adjustment to a variable length L2. The distance L2 corresponds to the distance between the receiving element 19 and the first deflection element 20.

[0110] Figure 20 shows a side view of the device 16 for receiving a chainsaw chain 3. An advantageous embodiment is shown here with a recess in the receiving element 25, a recess in the first deflection element 25', and a recess in the second deflection element 25" for receiving a chainsaw chain 3. In this embodiment, the recess of the receiving element 25 and the recess of the second deflection element 25' are combined into a single recess, but they can also be designed separately. These recesses are characterized by the fact that they reliably prevent the chainsaw chain 3 from slipping in the direction of the first spatial axis A. Thus, the chainsaw chain 3 cannot slip off the receiving element 19, the first deflection element 20, or the second deflection element 20' and become knotted due to the influence of gravity or vibrations in the direction of the first spatial axis A.

[0111] Figure 21 shows a perspective view of the device 16. The support structure 17 has a first plane 18 on which the receiving element 19, the first deflection element 20, the second deflection element 20', and the fixing element 22 are arranged in relief. The first plane 18 of the support structure 17 provides a first contact surface for receiving the chainsaw chain 3, opposite to the direction of the first spatial axis A. The direction of the first spatial axis A corresponds to the surface normal of the first plane 18 of the support structure 17. The second spatial axis B lies in the first plane 18 and is formed by the line connecting the receiving element 19 and the first deflection point 20. The second plane 21 describes the plane on which the third chain section 9 is deflected at the first deflection element 20.The second deflection element 20' enables a further deflection of the fifth chain section 23 (not shown in this figure) on the third level 2T and of the sixth chain section 24 on level 21". The first deflection element 20 and the second deflection element 20' each have a recess. These recesses are characterized by an undercut in the direction of the first spatial axis A, which prevents the chainsaw chain 3 from slipping off the respective deflection element. The second deflection element 20' can be designed as an extension of the receiving element 19 with the same or similar geometric configuration, but is not limited to this. In the embodiment for a double deflection, the fixing element 22 is arranged near the first deflection element 20; ideally, the fixing element 22 is arranged directly above the first deflection element 20 in the direction of the second spatial axis B.

[0112] Figure 22 shows a first loading step of a chainsaw chain 3, which the device 16 allows by its design. The chainsaw chain 3 lies against the first plane 18 in the direction of the first spatial axis A. The loading element 19 receives the first chain section 7. The first deflection element 20 is tangent to the second chain section 8. Figure 23 shows a side view of a first loading step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16.

[0113] Figure 24 shows a perspective view of a first step in the mounting of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16 in an embodiment with double chainsaw chain deflection.

[0114] Figure 25 shows a second winding step of a chainsaw chain 3, which the device 16 makes possible by its design. The second chain section 8, with its cutting part 11 on the first level 18, and the third chain section, with its drive part 14 on the second level 21, are wound around the first deflecting element 20 in the same direction, with a similar wrap angle and with a similar bending radius.

[0115] Figure 26 shows the side view of a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16.

[0116] Figure 27 shows a perspective view of a second step in the mounting of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16. Here it is clearly visible how the design of the device 16 deflects the chainsaw chain 3 around the first deflecting element 20 on the first and second levels 18, 21.

[0117] Figure 28 shows a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3, which the device 16 makes possible by its design. The fifth chain section 23 is mounted with its cutting part 13 on the second level 21. 1 and the sixth chain section 24 is wound around the second deflection element 20' in the same direction, with a similar wrapping angle and with a similar bending radius, with its drive part 14 on the third level 21".

[0118] Figure 29 shows the side view of a third mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16.

[0119] Figure 30 shows a perspective view of a second mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16. Here it is clearly visible how the design of the device 16 positions the fifth chain section 23 of a chainsaw chain 3 on the second level 21. 1and deflects the sixth chain section 24 of a chainsaw chain 3 on the third level 21" around the second deflecting element 20'.

[0120] Figure 31 shows a top view of a fourth step in the insertion of a chainsaw chain 3, which the device 16 makes possible by its design. The wrap angle of the fifth and sixth chain sections 23, 24 around the second deflection element 20' is approximately 180°, and the fourth chain section 10 is secured by means of the fixing element 22.

[0121] Figure 32 shows the side view of a fourth mounting step of a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16.

[0122] Figure 33 shows a perspective view of a fourth step in the process of mounting a chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16. It is clearly visible how the design of the device 16 allows a first deflection of the chainsaw chain 3 around the first deflection element 20. In this process, the second chain section 8 is deflected on the first level 18 and the third chain section 9 on the second level 21. The figure also shows how the design of the device 16 allows a second deflection of the chainsaw chain 3 around the second deflection element 20'. In this process, the fifth chain section 23 is deflected on the second level 21. 1and the sixth chain section 24 is deflected on the third level 21". The attachment of the fourth chain section 10 to the fixing element 22 is realized on a plane that is not the same as the plane of the receiving element 19 of the first chain section 7. The fixing element 22 secures the fourth chain section in the direction of the first spatial axis A, the second spatial axis B, and the third spatial axis C and is arranged in the direction of the first spatial axis A above the receiving element 19 and the first deflection element 20. Likewise, the third chain section 9 is deflected in the direction of the first spatial axis A above the second chain section at the first deflection element 20. Furthermore, the sixth chain section 24 is deflected in the direction of the first spatial axis A above the fifth chain section 23 at the second deflection element 20'.

[0123] Figure 34 shows a top view of a possible, injection-moldable, concrete embodiment of the device 16. In addition to the receiving element 19, the first and second deflection elements 20, 20' and the fixing element 22, it also includes a first and second climbing aid 26, 27.

[0124] Figure 35 shows the side view of a possible, injection-moldable, concrete embodiment of the device 16.

[0125] Figure 36 shows a perspective view of a possible, injection-moldable, concrete embodiment of the device 16. The first level 18 allows the second chain section 8 to rest on it. The first lifting aid 26 is designed to lift the third chain section 9 in the direction of the first spatial axis A over the second chain section 8 onto the second level 21. The height of the first lifting aid 26 starts on the first level 18 and increases in the direction of the first spatial axis A, opposite to the direction of the second spatial axis B, by approximately the height H1 of the chainsaw chain to be accommodated, reaching the second level 21. An advantageous embodiment allows the height of the first lifting aid 26 to increase, at least in part, also against the direction of the third spatial axis C. The second lifting aid 27 is designed to lift the fifth and sixth chain sections 23, 24 in the direction of the first spatial axis A over the first chain section 7.Viewed in the direction of the second spatial axis B, its height starts on the first level 18 in the direction of the first spatial axis A and ends on the second level 21. An advantageous embodiment allows the height of the second climbing aid 26 to increase, at least in part, in the direction of the third spatial axis C as well. These advantageous chamfers in the direction of the second and third spatial axes B, C facilitate the mounting of the saw chain 3 on the device 16, since the individual chain sections cannot become entangled when guided to different levels 18, 21 by means of the climbing aids 26, 27.

[0126] Figure 37 shows an advantageous embodiment in which the device 16 is movably or rotatably arranged on an interface element 29. In a particularly advantageous embodiment (not shown), the closed position shown is secured by a locking mechanism between the interface element 29 and the movable device 16, so that the device 16 cannot be unintentionally moved into an open position by the vibrations encountered during transport of the combination canister 28. This can be achieved via a snap connection, a hook-and-loop fastener, a clamp, or, particularly advantageously, a magnetic closure. In this embodiment, the interface element 29 is attached to or arranged on a combination canister 28. A combination canister 28 serves primarily to supply fuel and lubricant to a gasoline-powered chainsaw.The device 16 is rotatably arranged on an interface element 29 about a first axis of rotation I parallel to the direction of the third spatial axis C via a rotary bearing 30. In an advantageous embodiment, the interface element 29 accommodates not only the chainsaw chain but also other tools (31, 32), such as a tensioning wrench for bar attachment, a wrench for adjusting the carburetor, or a file for sharpening the chain. The interface element 29 can be securely attached to the combination canister 27 as a separate component. This can be achieved by means of a screw connection, a snap connection, a clamp, or adhesive bonding. Alternatively, the interface element can also be a fixed, integrally formed component of a combination canister 28. The invention is not limited to a combination canister 28 for gasoline-powered chainsaws.It can also be used with a combination container (not shown) for battery-powered chainsaws, which holds lubricant and / or tools and / or spare batteries. Likewise, the interface element 29 can be arranged on a work belt or other equipment used for forestry work, such as forestry tractors or toolboxes. The invention also includes the storage of spare chains on non-handheld equipment that uses saw chains, such as log splitters or harvesters.

[0127] Figure 38 shows a position in which the device 16 is unfolded about the first axis of rotation into an open position, thus enabling the chain to be inserted or removed. In an advantageous embodiment, the end position is achieved by contact with the handle of the combination canister.

[0128] Figure 39 shows a first assembly step of the chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16, in which the receiving element 19 receives the first chain section 7.

[0129] Figure 40 shows a second assembly step of the chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16, in which the first deflecting element 20 deflects the second and third chain sections 8, 9. Figure 41 shows a third assembly step of the chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16, in which the second deflecting element 20' deflects the fifth and sixth chain sections 23, 24.

[0130] Figure 42 shows a fourth assembly step of the chainsaw chain 3 onto the device 16, in which the fixing element 20 secures the fourth chain section 10.

[0131] Figure 43 shows a position in which the device 16 is moved by a rotation about the axis of rotation of the pivot bearing 30 into a closed position (Fig. 37) in which the chainsaw chain 3 is safely and protected received.

[0132] Figure 44 shows an embodiment of the invention for an original packaging, a first packaging element 33 in which a chainsaw chain 3 is sold, here in a folding box design. The folding is designed such that the elements receiving element 19, first deflection element 20, second deflection element 20', and fixing element 22 are realized. The fixing element 22 is shown here by way of example as a clamping connection, which includes a plug-in element 34 and a clamping element 35. However, the invention is not limited to this and also includes other types of fastening, such as gluing, hook and loop fasteners, or magnetic closures.

[0133] Figure 45 shows the first packaging element 33 with the chainsaw chain 3 mounted.

[0134] Figure 46 shows a first folding process of the first packaging element 33.

[0135] Figure 47 shows a second folding process of the first packaging element 33, in which the plug-in element 34 is inserted into the clamping element 35 and thus the fourth chain section 10 of the chainsaw chain 3 is reliably fixed.

[0136] Fig 48 shows the result of a third folding process of the first packaging element 33, in which the packaging is completely closed.

[0137] Figure 49 shows a second embodiment of the invention for an original packaging, a second packaging element 33', in which a chainsaw chain 3 is sold, here in an unfolded folding box design.

[0138] Figure 50 shows a first folding process of the second packaging element 33'

[0139] Figure 51 shows a second folding process of the second packaging element 33'

[0140] Figure 52 shows a third folding process of the second packaging element 33'

[0141] Figure 53 shows a fourth folding step of the second packaging element 33' with the chainsaw chain 3 mounted; and

[0142] Figure 54 shows a fifth folding process of the second packaging element 33'; in which the plug-in elements 34 are inserted into the clamping elements 35 and thus both the fourth chain section 10 and the sixth chain section 24 of the chainsaw chain 3 are reliably fixed and the second packaging element 33' is closed.

[0143] Although the invention has been described here with reference to preferred embodiments, it can be modified in many ways. The embodiments and features explained with reference to the device according to the invention for releasably picking up and holding at least one chainsaw chain apply accordingly to the method according to the invention.Reference list Chainsaw bar Chainsaw chain Detailed view of chainsaw chain in top view Cutting part of the chainsaw chain Drive part of the chainsaw chain First chain section Second chain section Third chain section Fourth chain section Cutting part second chain section Drive part second chain section Cutting part third chain section Drive part third chain section Detailed view of the chainsaw chain in side view Device Carrier device First level Receiving element First deflection element ' Second deflection element Second level Third level “ Fourth level Fixing element ' First magnetic fixation “ Second magnetic fixation '“ Third magnetic fixation Fifth chain section Sixth chain section Recess Receiving element ' Recess First deflection element “ Recess Second deflection element 26 First climbing aid.

[0144] 27 second stepping stone

[0145] 28 combination canisters

[0146] 29 Interface element

[0147] 30 swivel bearings

[0148] 31 first tool

[0149] 32 second tool

[0150] 33 first packaging element

[0151] 33' second packaging element

[0152] 34 plug-in elements

[0153] 35 clamping element

[0154] 36 screw

[0155] 37 Adjustment device

[0156] 38 folding box combination

[0157] 39 cardboard elements

[0158] Axis 1 of the virtual coordinate system « first spatial axis»

[0159] B Axis 2 of the virtual coordinate system « second spatial axis»

[0160] C axis 3 of the virtual coordinate system « third spatial axis»

[0161] I Axis of rotation 1 «first axis of rotation»

[0162] L1 Length of the stretched chainsaw chain

[0163] L2 Distance between receiving element and first deflection element

[0164] H1 Height of the chainsaw chain to be mounted

[0165] H2 Distance first level to fixing element

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device (16) for releasably receiving and holding at least one endless chain, in particular a chainsaw chain (3), characterized by a carrier device (17), at least one receiving element (19) for receiving a first chain section (7), at least one first deflecting element (20) for receiving a second and third chain section (8, 9), a fixing element (22) for receiving and holding a fourth chain section (10), wherein the at least first deflecting element (20) is designed such that the second chain section (8) can be positioned in a first plane (18) and the third chain section (9) in a second plane (21) on the first deflecting element (20).

2. Device (16) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the receiving element (19) and the fixing element (22) are arranged one above the other in at least one direction of the first spatial axis (A).

3. Device (16) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fixing element (22) contains at least one magnet (22').

4. Device (16) according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the fixing element (22) contains at least one clamping device.

5. Device (16) according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the at least one receiving element (19) or the at least one deflecting element (20, 20') contains at least sectionally at least one recess (25, 25', 25") for receiving a chainsaw chain (3).

6. Device (16) according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that an adjustment device (37) is included, by which at least the at least one deflecting element (20, 20') or the fixing element (22) can be positioned in at least one direction of the second spatial axis (B) relative to the receiving element (19).

7. Device (16) according to at least one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that a second deflecting element (20') for receiving a fifth and sixth chain section (23,24) is included.

8. Device (16) according to claim 7, characterized in that the receiving element (19) and second deflecting element (20') are arranged one above the other in at least one direction of the first spatial axis (A).

9. Device (16) according to claim 8, characterized in that the fixing element (22) and the first deflecting element (20) are arranged one above the other in at least one direction (A).

10. Device (16) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a second deflecting element (20') is designed such that the fifth chain section (23) can be positioned in a third plane (21 ') and the sixth chain section (21“) can be positioned in a fourth plane (21) on the second deflecting element (20').

11. Device (16) according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one climbing aid (26, 27) is arranged on the support device (17), the distance of which from the first plane (18) in the direction of the first spatial axis (A) increases at least sectionally in at least one direction of the second spatial axis (B) or the direction of the third spatial axis (C).

12. Device (16) according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the device (16) is designed in the form of a folding box combination (38) made of at least one cardboard element (39).

13. Device (16) according to claim 12, characterized in that the receiving element (19) and / or the at least one deflecting element (20, 20') are formed by a folding operation of the at least one cardboard element around the second spatial axis (B).

14. Device (16) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that at least the receiving element (19) and / or the at least one deflecting element (20, 20') contain at least one clamping element (35) for receiving the at least one plug-in element (34).

15. Device (16) according to claim 14, characterized in that the insertion of the at least one plug-in element (34) into the at least one clamping element (35) is provided in the opposite direction to the first spatial axis (A).

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