Quick connector assembly for a crane block, crane block, crane, method for exchanging tools to a crane block

Abstract

Connector assembly for mounting to a crane block (100) for connection to an exchangeable tool, comprising: - a support block (24) configured for rotatable mounting around a rotation axis (R) to the crane block, the support block having a passage (26) extending transverse to the rotation axis; - a connector shank (28) supported by the support block and receivable in the passage, the connector shank having an upper end extending above the support block, the connector shank having a lower end provided with a quick connection system (36) for releasable connection with various tools.

Description

[0001] P138115PC00

[0002] Title: Quick connector assembly for a crane block, Crane block, Crane,

[0003] Method for exchanging tools to a crane block

[0004] The invention relates to a connector assembly for use with a crane block and for connecting to various tools, such as e.g. a crane hook, or a pile lifting device.

[0005] Generally, the crane hook is permanently fitted to the crane block. If different loads or a different tool needs to be hoisted, use is made of slings engaged to the crane hook and the load or tool. Working with slings is time consuming, involves human intervention and thereby safety risks. Attempts have been made to improve the exchange of tools. In particular, there is a movement to limit or reduce the hands on deck as much as possible for safety reasons.

[0006] WO 2018 / 139931A1 discloses a crane tool for exchangeable connection of tools. The crane tool has an attachment eye for the sling, which sling is connected to the crane hook, a circle cylindrical main body having a plurality of latches operable by hydraulic actuators inside the main body. Each tool has an adaptor to which the crane tool can connect.

[0007] WO 2020 / 055249A1 discloses a tool suspension device for an exchangeable tool, the device having an upper tool connector fixed to the travelling block. The upper tool connector having actuatable tool retainers arranged above the fixed support of the upper tool connector to the travelling block. The exchangeable tool has a lower tool connector that fits in the upper tool connector. The tool retainers are actuated between an operative position and a non-operative position, in which the lower tool connector of the tool is engaged by and disengaged from the tool retainers, respectively, such that the tool is suspended and released from the crane, respectively.

[0008] It is an object of the invention to provide at least an alternative to the aforementioned devices. It is a further object of the invention to provide an improved exchangeable tool device.

[0009] Thereto, the invention provides for a connector assembly according to claim 1. Such a connector assembly may be used as a quick connector, allowing safe, reliable, efficient, effective and / or fast exchange of various tools for the operations to be done with the crane comprising a crane block with such a connector assembly. As such, man on the deck can be limited or avoided. The connector assembly may be provided to a crane, which crane may be mounted on a vessel or a jack-up used for offshore operations.

[0010] Optionally, the support block is provided with two shaft ends for rotatable mounting in associated suspension members of the crane block. The rotation axis may then coincide with a center line of the two shaft ends, thereby providing for the rotatable mounting of the support block to the crane block. Advantageously, the rotation axis may be - in use - below or between the sheaves of the crane block and may be - in use - horizontally oriented. The passage in the support block may then be about vertically oriented, in use.

[0011] Alternatively and / or additionally, the shank is receivable in the passage in an upward movement from below the support block. In use, the passage of the support block is vertically oriented, allowing a relatively easy access for the shank in the passage. By inserting the shank in the passage from below, by either an upward movement of the shank with respect to the support block, or a downward movement of the support block with respect to the shank - in both situations the relative movement is the same - the handling of the shank and the support block may be relatively easy.

[0012] Optionally, wherein the upper end of the shank is configured to fit through the passage of the support block. As such, the shank may be inserted into the passage in one piece.

[0013] Alternatively and / or additionally, between a cap system and the support block a bearing is provided. The cap system may optionally be arranged to couple the shank to the support block, for example the cap system may be configured to engage with an upper end of the shank and the support block. Then, the cap system may be coupled to an upper side of the support block. Advantageously, the shank may be rotatable arranged in the support block, and the cap system may allow for a rotatable arrangement involving a slewing movement of the shank in the support block. To allow such slewing movement, a bearing can be provided between the cap system and the support block.

[0014] The cap system may comprise a skirt surrounding the upper end of the shank and may comprise a lid closing off the upper end of the shank and fixed to the skirt. As such the cap system may fully enclose the upper end of the shank and may protect its inner space from ingress of dirt, contamination and other influences which are plenty around in the environments in which such connector assemblies are used, e.g. in an offshore environment.

[0015] Optionally, the cap system further comprises at least two ring segment elements for engaging the upper end of the shank. The ring segment elements may be clamped between the shank and the skirt. By providing the ring segment elements, a firm engagement with the upper end of the shank may be provided. Also, this may allow for a more easy to assemble, and if needed, disassemble, connector assembly. A firm engagement may for example be obtained by the ring segment elements being configured to be confined between a shoulder of the upper end of the shank and a seat of the skirt.

[0016] Alternatively and / or additionally, the upper end of the shank has an outer diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the passage of the support block to allow the upper end to pass through the passage. This may contribute to an easy insertion of the shank in the passage and / or may reduce the risk that the shank may get stuck, e.g. skewed, in the passage. Further, the cap system may be provided with a slew actuation system configured to actuate the cap system and the shank in a slewing manner with respect to the support block. By providing a slew actuation system, the slewing movement of the shank with respect to the support block may be performed in a controlled manner. Control of the slewing movement by the slewing actuation system may add to the safety and reliability of the operations done with the connector assembly and / or to a more operator user friendly system.

[0017] In an example, the slew actuation system may comprise a toothed rack fixed to the cap system, preferably to a skirt of the cap system, and at least one slew actuator engaged to the toothed rack and mounted to the support block. Such an actuation system may provide for an accurate and / or reliable control of the slewing movement.

[0018] Optionally, the lower end of the shank may extend below the support block. By allowing the lower end of the shank to extend below the support block, a further connection with a tool may be possible.

[0019] Optionally, the lower end of the shank may be connected to the upper end of the shank via a cylindrical shank body, preferably wherein the upper end, the shank body and the lower end are a single piece.

[0020] Alternatively and / or additionally, a lower part of the shank body extending below the support block may have a larger outer diameter than an upper part of the shank body extending through and above the support block. Such difference in diameter may allow a relative easy insertion of the shank in the passage of the support block without having the risk that the shank may go through the passage.

[0021] Further, between the lower part of the shank body and the support block a distance keeper may be provided to prevent unintentional upward movement of the shank. Such distance keeper may attribute to the axial confinement of the shank with respect to the support block. Optionally, the quick connection system may comprise an actuation system wherein the actuation system is at least partly positioned above the support block. By positioning the actuation system above the support block, e.g. at an upper side of the support block, the actuation system may be shielded from tools, handling and / or other equipment during operations thereby reducing any risk on damage.

[0022] Optionally, the actuation system may be configured to actuate the quick connection system between a connected condition in which there is a locking engagement with a tool and a disconnected condition in which the connection system cannot engage the tool. By providing an actuation system to actuate the quick connection system, a controlled connection and disconnection between the shank of the connector assembly and the tool can be obtained.

[0023] Alternatively and / or additionally, the quick connection system may comprise a number of movable connection elements, preferably latches, evenly distributed around a circumference of the lower end of the shank and operable connected to the actuation system. By providing a number of movable connection elements, such as latches, a relatively large contact and support surface may be obtained between the shank and the tool. By providing a number of movable connection elements, a reliable contact and support can be obtained between the tool and the quick connection system of the connection assembly.

[0024] Alternatively and / or additionally, the connection elements may be operable between an engaged position in which the latches protrude outwardly with respect to the shank and a free position in which the connection elements are within the shank. In the free position, the movable connection elements may be provided within a circumference of the shank. In this position, the shank may be inserted in the receiving socket of the tool. Then, when an appropriate position is reached of the shank in the tool, the movable connection elements can be actuated to the engaged position in which the movable connection elements protrude outwardly of the shank. The movable connection elements may be swivable engaged to the shank or may be rotatable engaged to the shank or may be slidable engaged to the shank, many options are possible. All these options have in common that in the engaged position of the movable connection elements, at least a part of the movable connection element is outside of the circumference of the shank such that a part of the movable connection element may be exposed outside of the shank. Engagement of such exposed part of the movable connection element with the tool may then be possible.

[0025] Advantageously, in the connected condition of the quick connection system the connection elements are in the engaged position, and in the disconnected condition the connection elements are in the free position. The actuation system may be configured to actuate the quick connection system, preferably via an operable connection system. In particular in an example wherein the actuation system is above the support block and the quick connection system is at a lower end of the shank below the support block, such an operable connection system may bridge the distance and may transfer the actuation from the actuation system to the quick connection system. The operable connection system may be a mechanical system, e.g. comprising a mechanical connection such as a rod, or a spindle etc. or may comprise an electrical system which may transmit control signals from the actuation system to the quick connector system or may comprise a hydraulic system. Then, the quick connector system may comprise a drive unit, e.g. an electromotor, receiving actuation signals and / or power from the actuation system to drive the movable connection elements to or from the engaged position and the free position. A mechanical operable connection system may comprise a rod which at an upper end is operable by the actuation system and at a lower end is engageable to the connection elements. Thus, a direct mechanical connection can be established between the actuation system and the quick connection system. Such a rod may provide for a stiff connection and reliable transmission of the actuation to the quick connection system. In particular, the actuation system actuating the rod, in this example involves an upward or downward movement of the rod with respect to the shank.

[0026] Optionally, the operable connection system may be provided in or through a central bore of the shank. Such a central bore may extend from the upper end to the lower end of the shank to allow connection between the actuation system which may be provided at the upper side of the support block, so, at an upper end of the shank, and the quick connection system which may be provided at a lower end of the shank. Advantageously, a center line of such a bore may coincide with a center line of the shank. This may facilitate any slewing motion of the shank with respect to the support block. Alternatively, an electrical operable connection may be envisaged to be provided in or on an outer side of the shank.

[0027] In an example, the rod may at its lower end be engageable to the connection elements via a bridge element, for example the bridge element may be fixedly mounted to one of the connection element and the rod, and the bridge element is movable engaged to the other one of the connection element and the rod, such that actuation of the rod adjusts the connection elements between the free position and the engaged position. As such, movement of the rod may directly induce adjustment of the movable connection elements of the quick connection system.

[0028] Optionally, the bridge element may comprise a frame mounted to a lower end of the rod with pins engaged in a groove of associated connection elements, wherein the groove is shaped such that movement of the pin through the groove induces adjustment of the connection elements from the free position to the engaged position. Thus actuation of the rod by the actuation system, inducing an upward or a downward movement, directly results in movement of the pins in the associated grooves. The movement of the pins in the associated grooves induces the movement of the corresponding connection elements between the engaged position and the free position.

[0029] Further, each connection element may be provided with two grooves, wherein in each groove a corresponding pin may be engaged, for example the grooves may be provided on opposite sides of the connection elements which sides extending in an approximate radial direction with respect to the shank. As such, movement of the connection elements is induced at both sides of the connection elements, providing for a symmetrical actuation of the connection elements. Such symmetrical actuation may be advantageous for load transmission and / or a smooth actuation. Symmetrical actuation may reduce an uneven load distribution on the connection elements, thereby being beneficial to the lifetime of the connection elements.

[0030] Optionally, the bridge element of the operable connection system may be provided below the connection elements, for example wherein the frame provides upwardly extending posts on which the pins are provided. By providing the bridge element of the operable connection system below the connection elements, the load path from the crane block via the support block, via the shank to the connection elements and to the tool remains undisturbed. The weight of the tool that is supported by the connection elements can then be uninterrupted transmitted to the shank, the support block and the crane block. This may reduce stress concentrations and may be beneficial for the life time of the connector assembly.

[0031] In an example, the bridge element may comprise a frame that extends from the rod radially outwards towards an outer side of the shank. An outer end of the frame may then be provided with upwardly extending posts on which one or more pins may be provided. Such upwardly extending post may be arranged between adjacent connection elements. On such post, two pins may be provided, for example one pin protruding to one side for engaging an associated connection element and another pin protruding to another side for engaging the adjacent associated connection element. The bridge element comprising the frame with the posts moves together with the rod upwardly or downwardly when actuated. The lower end of the shank may then be provided with corresponding recesses in which the bridge element may translate.

[0032] Alternatively, the bridge element may be provided as a nose fixedly mounted to one of the connection element and the rod and wherein the bridge element is movably engaged in a groove of the other one of the connection element and the rod. Such bridge element then may directly extend radially between the connection element and the rod. Although the load path between the tool supported by the connection elements, the shank, the support block and the crane block may then be interrupted, a direct radial interaction between the connection element and the rod may have the advantage of less components and simpler manufacturing. By fixedly mounting the nose to one of the connection element and the rod and the other end of the nose being freely engaged in a corresponding recess of the other one of the connection element and the rod, by moving the one the other is being taken along by the nose. The nose thus acts as a take-along. For example the nose may be provided at a side of the connection element facing radially inwardly. The nose may then protrude radially inwardly towards the rod and an end of the nose may protrude in a recess of the rod to allow freely engagement with the recess of the rod. It may be understood that instead of a recess, the rod may be provided with a protrusion or similar to which the end of the nose may engage. Then, by actuating the rod, the rod is moved upwardly or downwardly. The end of the nose protruding in the corresponding recess of the rod is being taken along in this movement. When moving upward, the nose end may abut to a lower side of the recess and when moving downward the nose end may abut to an upper side of the recess, and as such is being taken along with the movement of the rod. Due to the direct connection of the nose with the connection element, an upward or downward movement of the end of the nose results in a movement of the entire nose, and consequently of the connection element that is fixedly mounted to the nose. For example, when the connection element is swivable or rotatable engaged to the shank, an upward or downward movement of the end of nose results in an angular change of the position of the nose. Due to the fixed connection with the connection element, an angular change of the position of the nose directly results in an angular change, and thus rotation, of the connection element. As such, an adjustment of the connection element between the engaged position and the free position may be possible.

[0033] The connection element may be swivable or rotatable engaged to the shank. Thereto, the shank may be provided with a recess in which the connection element can be received when the connection element is in the free position. A lower side of this recess may be configured as a cylindrical surface to which a corresponding cylindrical surface of the connection element may engage. The connection element may then swivel with respect to the shank by sliding movement of the engaging cylindrical surfaces with respect to each other. At the lower side of the recess, preferably at an outer side thereof, a holder plate may be provided to hold the engagement of the corresponding cylindrical surfaces and preventing that the connection element may be accidentally disengaged from the recess. An inside of the holder plate may have a curvature similar to the one of the cylindrical surface, and thus may add to extend the cylindrical shaped surface of the recess for contact with the corresponding cylindrical surface of the connection element.

[0034] The operable connection system and / or the actuation system may be provided with a biasing element, such as one or more springs or an accumulator etc. The biasing element may provide for biasing of the connection elements towards the engaged position. As such, an accidental adjustment from the engaged to the free position of the connection elements may be obviated, e.g. in case of a failure of the actuation system. Then, when a tool is connected to the quick connection system, also in case of a failure, the connection may remain. The biasing element may thus be, e.g. part of, a fail-safe system. The biasing element, e.g. a spring may be provided at or near the bridge element of the operable connection system. Then, the biasing element, depending on the configuration of the bridge element may push the bridge element upward or downward, to urge the connection elements to the engaged position.

[0035] In an example, the lower end of the shank is provided with a conical shaped tip. Such conical shaped tip may add to the searching capabilities of the shank when being inserted into a receiving socket of the tool.

[0036] In a second aspect, there is provided a crane block that is configured to be connected to a crane, the crane block comprising two parallel suspension members, such as cheeks, each provided with at least two corresponding openings, of which first openings are configured to receive shaft ends of a support block of a connector assembly, and of which the at least one other openings are configured to receive a suspension bar. The connector assembly may be a connector assembly as described.

[0037] Further, in each suspension member, the first opening may be located at a distance below the at least one second opening. Optionally, each suspension member may comprise two second openings at a distance above the first opening.

[0038] In a third aspect, a crane is provided, the crane comprising such a crane block. The crane may be positioned on a vessel or a jack-up.

[0039] In a fourth aspect, a method for exchanging tools to a crane block, the method comprising: providing a crane block with a connector assembly; providing at least one tool, wherein the tool has a receiving socket configured for receiving at least the lower end of the connector assembly, the receiving socket having an inwardly protruding rim, lowering the shank of the connector assembly with its lower end in the receiving socket of the tool until connection elements of the quick connection system are below the rim of the receiving socket; actuating the connection elements to a connected condition in which they are in locking engagement with the tool, preferably in locking engagement with the rim of the receiving socket.

[0040] Further, in the method, in the connected condition the connection elements may be moved radially outwardly of the shank such that, when lifting the tool, the rim rests on the outwardly moved connection elements.

[0041] The method may further comprise exchanging a tool from the connector assembly by actuating the connection elements to a free condition in which the connection elements are within the shank and become free of the rim; lifting the shank out of the tool; providing a second tool; lowering the shank of the connector assembly with its lower end in the receiving socket of the second tool until connection elements of the quick connection system are below the rim of the receiving socket; actuating the connection elements to a connected condition in which they are in locking engagement with the second tool, preferably in locking engagement with the rim of the receiving socket.

[0042] In a fifth aspect, there is provided a set of a connector assembly and a number of tools, each releasable connectable to the connector assembly. As such, a quick exchange between various tools can be done in a safe, efficient and reliable manner, without the need for ‘man on the deck’.

[0043] Optionally, each tool may be provided with a receiving socket for engaging with the connector assembly, in particular with a lower end of the shank of the connector assembly. Optionally, the receiving socket of the tool may be dedicated to receive the quick connector system of the connector assembly.

[0044] In the following, the invention will be explained further using examples of embodiments and drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a crane block with the connector assembly according to the invention;

[0045] Figure 2 shows a detail of the connector assembly as arranged to the crane block;

[0046] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the connector assembly;

[0047] Figure 4 shows a cross-section of the connector assembly as shown in Figure 2;

[0048] Figure 5 shows a cross-section of an embodiment of a lower end of the shank showing part of the quick connection system;

[0049] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the lower end of the shank of the embodiment Figure 5;

[0050] Figure 7 shows the quick connection system of the embodiment shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6, with the shank left out of the drawing;

[0051] Figure 8A shows an alternative embodiment of the lower end of the shank with the connection elements in the free position;

[0052] Figure 8B shows a cross-section the lower end of Figure 8A;

[0053] Figure 9A shows the embodiment of Figure 8A with the connection elements in the engaged position;

[0054] Figure 9B shows a cross-section of the lower end as shown in Figure 9 A;

[0055] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the quick connection system of the embodiment shown in Figures 8A-9B with the shank left out of the drawing;

[0056] Figure 11 shows the lower end of the shank of the embodiment shown in Figures 8A-10 with the connection elements and the operable connection system omitted from the drawing;

[0057] Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment of a swivel engagement of a connection element to the shank.

[0058] The drawings are schematic and merely show an example. In the drawings, corresponding elements are provided with corresponding reference signs. For clarity of the drawings, some elements and / or references signs may be omitted from some of the figures, wherein the presence of such elements may nevertheless be understood in view of one of more other figures and / or the description.

[0059] Figure 1 shows a crane block 100 configured to be connected to a crane. The crane block 100 comprises two parallel suspension members 2a, 2b each provided with at least two corresponding openings 4a, 6a, 4b, 6b respectively. The suspension members 2a, 2b are here provided as cheeks 2a, 2b. First openings 4 are configured to receive shaft ends of a support block of a connector assembly, and of which the at least one other openings 6a, 6b are configured to receive a suspension bar 8. At a top end 10 of the crane block 100, sheaves 12 are provided. The sheaves 12 are configured to receive hoisting cables of the crane. The first openings 4a, 4b are located at a distance below the at least one second openings 6a, 6b. Here, in this embodiment, there are two second openings 6a in cheek 2a and two second openings 6b in cheek 2b. Both second openings 6a, 6b are located at a distance above the first openings 4a, 4b, resulting in a triangular configuration of the openings 4a, 6a, 4b, 6b when seen in side view of the cheek 2 a, 2b.

[0060] The first openings 4a, 4b in the respective cheeks 2a, 2b are configured to receive a connector assembly 200. The connector assembly 200 is rotatable mounted to the cheeks 2a, 2b, in particular to the openings 4a, 4b in the respective cheeks, such that the connector assembly 200 is rotatable around a rotation axis R. The rotation axis R advantageously coincides with a central axis of the openings 4a, 4b. Thus, the connector assembly 200 is rotatable mounted to the crane block 100, and can rotate around the rotation axis R in a pendulum-like manner.

[0061] In Figure 2, it is shown that there are two second openings 6a located above the first opening 4a (not shown for reasons of clarity). Between the corresponding openings 6a, 6b an associated suspension bar 8 is provided. It can be seen that the suspension members 2a, 2b here comprise two joined components, an upper component for connection to the sheaves and a lower component for connection to the connector assembly 200. The upper component and the lower component are overlappingly engaged at the second openings by the suspension bars 8. The suspension bars 8 extend through the associated openings 6a, 6b and can be covered by a cover. In an example, a distance keeper tube can be provided over the suspension bar 8 and between the suspension members 2a, 2b, such that the distance keeper tube is in an interior between the suspension members 2a, 2b to keep the distance between said members 2a, 2b.

[0062] The cheeks 2a, 2b can be plate-like elements, as e.g. shown in the figures 1 and 2, but alternative configurations can be possible. Alternatively, the suspension members may comprise two parallel first suspension elements comprising a first rotation shaft having a first rotation axis interconnecting both first suspension elements. From the first rotation shaft second suspension elements may suspend interconnected by a second rotation shaft having a second rotation axis. The second rotation axis being perpendicular to the first rotation axis. As such, a cardan-like suspension can be obtained. It may be understood that the support block 24 of the invention can be provided as the second rotation shaft in such cardan-like suspension. The first and / or the second suspension members may be embodied as cheeks or similar plate-like elements. The connection between the suspension members 2a, 2b of the crane block 100 and the sheaves 12 is not shown, but is known to a person skilled in the art.

[0063] The connector assembly 200 is being described with reference to Figure 3. The connector assembly 200 is configured for mounting to a crane block 100 at one end and for connection to an exchangeable tool at another end. In particular, a top end 20 can be mounted to the crane block 100 and a bottom end 22 can be connected to various tools. The various tools can be e.g. a crane hook, or a pile lifting device, or a spreader for lifting a container, etc. During offshore operations many tools can be used that are operated with the crane, and by using the connector assembly according to the invention, the exchange of tools can be done more quick, more safe, more reliable and better controllable. The connector assembly 200 comprises a support block 24 configured for rotatable mounting around a rotation axis to the crane block 100. The support block 24 further is provided with a passage 26 extending transverse to the rotation axis, as is shown in Figure 4.

[0064] The connector assembly 200 further comprises a connector shank 28 supported by the support block 24 and receivable in the passage 26. The connector shank 28 has an upper end 30 extending above the support block 24 and closed off by a cap system 32. The connector shank 28 further has a lower end 34. The lower end 34 is provided with a quick connection system 36 for releasable connection with various tools. The various tools advantageously are provided with a corresponding receiving socket that is arranged for receiving the lower end 34 of the connector assembly 200, such that a firm and reliable connection can be obtained between the connector assembly 200 and the tool.

[0065] The support block 24 is provided with two shaft ends 38a, 38b for rotatable mounting in associated cheeks 2a, 2b respectively of the crane block 100. With the shaft ends 38a, 38b inserted in the associated openings 4a, 4b of the cheeks 2a, 2b, the shaft ends 38a, 38b can be covered with a cover 40a, 40b. Such cover 40a, 40b may protect the shaft ends 38a, 38b from environmental influences, which can be rather aggressive in an offshore environment and / or may lock the shaft ends 38a, 38b between the cheeks 2 a, 2b.

[0066] The shank 28 can be inserted into the passage 26 in an upward movement from below the support block 24. Advantageously, the upper end 30 of the shank 28 is configured to fit through the passage 26 of the support block 24. For example, the upper end 30 of the shank 28 has an outer diameter OD smaller than an inner diameter ID of the passage 26 of the support block 24 to allow the upper end 30 to pass through the passage 26.

[0067] The cap system 32 is configured to engage the shank 28, preferably to clampingly engage the shank 28. The cap system 32 and the shank 28 may be rotational movable around the axial direction X of the shank 28. Such rotational movement around the direction X may also be denoted as slewing movement S. To allow the slewing movement S, a bearing 42 is arranged between the support block 24 and the cap system 32. The cap system 32 may rest on the bearing 42, and thereby on the support block 24. Advantageously, the cap system 32 is firmly engaged to the shank 28, so the cap system 32 together with the shank 28 rest on the bearing 24, thereby a slewing movement with respect to the support block 24 is possible. The bearing 42 allows the slewing movement, and may or may not, depending on the bearing configuration, restrain movement in axial direction X. As can be seen in the cross-section of the top end 20 of the connector assembly 200, the cap system 32 comprises a skirt 44, a lid 46, and, in this example, a ring 48 between the skirt 44 and the lid 46. The skirt 44 surrounds the upper end 30 of the shank 28, typically the skirt 44 being rotationally symmetric with respect to the axial direction X. The bearing 42 is mounted between the skirt 44 and the support block 24 allowing the skirt 44 to rotate, or slew, with respect to the support block 24. The upper end 30 of the shank 28 extends above the support block 24 through the skirt 44 and is being covered by the lid 46. The lid 46 is, typically by means of bolts, fixated to the skirt 44. The lid 46 merely closes off the upper end 30 of the shank 28 to protect an interior of the cap system and the shank 28 from a.o. environmental influences. To firmly clamp the upper end 30 of the shank 28 to the skirt 44, the ring 48 is being provided. The ring 48 is here embodied as at least two ring segment elements, the ring segment elements together forming a closed ring. The ring segment elements 48 are confined between a shoulder 50 at the upper end 30 of the shank 28 and a seat 52 of the skirt 44. A frictional engagement between the shoulder 50, the ring segment elements 48 and the seat 52 can be obtained in a cooperation between the skirt and the upper end of the shank. The skirt 44 may provide for retainment of the ring segment elements 48 in radial direction and / or in axial direction via the seat 52. Alternatively, the ring can be integrated to the skirt. The load path from the shank 28 to the support block 24 may go via the shoulder 50, the ring segment elements 48, the skirt 44, the bearing 42 to the support block 24.

[0068] The slewing movement S of the cap system 32 and the shank 28 around the axial direction X can be made possible by a slew actuation system 70. The slew actuation system 70 comprises at least one slew actuator 72, mounted to the support block 24. On the cap system 32, a toothed rack 74 is fixed around the circumference of the cap system 32. Here, the toothed rack is provided on the circumference of the skirt 44, but it may be provided on the lid 46 instead. The slew actuator 72 is via a gear wheel 76 engaged to the toothed rack 74 and induces rotation of the cap system 32 with the thereto fixedly mounted shank 28, by actuation of the gear wheel 76. The slewing movement introduced to the skirt 44 via the toothed rack 74 is transferred via the skirt 44, potentially the ring segment elements 48, to the shank 28 to bring the shank 28 in slewing movement. When the frictional engagement between the shoulder 50 of the shank 28, the seat 52 of the skirt 44 and the ring segment elements 48 is sufficient, the slewing movement can be transferred to the shank 28 directly. In an example, an additional form-fitting connection can be provided e.g. between the lid 46 and the upper end 30 of the shank 28. Then, the slewing movement can be transferred alternatively and / or additionally to the ring segment elements via the lid 46 and the form-fitting to the shank 28. When the toothed rack 76 is mounted on the skirt 44, the load path for the slewing movement from slew actuation system 70 to the shank 28 goes via the skirt 44 and via the ring segment elements and / or the lid. To assemble the connector assembly 200, the shank 28 is being inserted in the passage 26 of the support block 24 until the upper end 30 of the shank 28 is above the support block 24. The skirt 44 be mounted onto the bearing 42 either before or after the insertion of the shank 28 through the passage 26. The upper end 30 of the shank 28 is being brought sufficiently above the skirt 44 such that the ring segment elements 48 can be put onto the seat 52 of the skirt 44. Then, the shank 28 can be lowered until the shoulder 50 of the upper end 30 of the shank 28 abuts the ring segment elements 48. The lid 46 can be mounted over the upper end 30 of the shank 28 and can be fixated to the skirt 44 to form the cap system 32.

[0069] Here, the shank 28 is embodied as a single piece wherein the upper end 30, the lower end 34 are connected to each other with a shank body 54 integrated there between. Alternatively, the shank 28 can be composed of individual components which can be assembled to each other. A method for assembling the connector assembly can then be alternatively including the assembly of the individual shank components. When providing individual shank components, the method may or may not include insertion of the shank from below in an upward movement through the passage. Alternative assembly can be possible.

[0070] As can be seen in the cross-section of Figure 4, the shank body 54 may have an outer diameter UD that is larger than the outer diameter OD of the upper end 30 of the shank 28. The shank body 54 is preferably, or advantageously, a cylindrical shank body, as can be seen in Figures 1 - 3. Alternatively, instead of a cylindrical shank body, the shank body may have a polygonal, e.g. square, cross-section. Such prismatic shank body may be used as an alternative, any reference to outer diameter, may then be read as a reference to an outer dimension of the shank body.

[0071] In particular, a lower part of the cylindrical shank body 54 extending below the support block 24 has a larger outer diameter UD than the outer diameter OD of an upper part of the shank body 54 extending through and above the support block 24. At a certain distance h below the support block 24, the outer diameter of the shank body 54 increases from diameter OD to diameter UD. This distance h corresponds with the distance that the shank 28 can be moved upward above the skirt 44 to allow the ring segment elements 48 to be inserted between the skirt 44 and the shoulder 50 of the shank upper end 30. To prevent accidentally or unintentionally moving upward of the shank 28 during use, a distance keeper 56 is provided between the support block 24 and the position of the shank 28 where the diameter increases. The distance keeper 56 likely has the same height as the distance h.

[0072] The lower end 34 of the shank 28 is provided with the quick connection system 36. The quick connection system 36 can be a system such as described in WO 2018 / 139931A1. Alternative quick connection systems are shown in Figures 5 - 11. The quick connection system may use hydraulic actuators or any alternative actuation system. Here, the actuation system 58 is positioned above the support block 24. The connection elements 60 may be rotatable latches such as described in WO 2018 / 139931A1, but may alternatively be latches sliding in and outwardly of the shank in a radial direction of the shank 28, such that in outward position an outwardly extending flange arrangement may be obtained. Here, the actuation system 58 is connected to the connection elements 60 via a rod 62. Actuation of the rod 62 may result in actuation of the connection elements 60. The actuation system 58 is configured to actuate the quick connection system 36 between a connected condition in which there is a locking engagement with a tool and a disconnected condition in which the connection system cannot engage the tool. The actuation system 58 here comprises an actuator 64 positioned between the support block 24 and the rod 62. The actuator 64 may be mounted on the support block 24. For example, the actuator 64 can move the rod 62 via a lever 66. The quick connection system comprises a number of movable connection elements 60, preferably latches, evenly distributed around the circumference of the lower end 34 of the shank 28 and operable connected to the actuation system 58. In this example, the connection elements 60 are operable connected to the actuation system 58 via the rod 62. The actuation system 58 can actuate the connection elements 60 between an engaged position in which the latches 60 protrude at least partly outwardly with respect to the shank 28 and a free position in which the connection elements are within a circumference of the shank 28. In Figure 3, the connection elements 60 are shown in an outward condition in which the connection elements 60 can engage a rib or rim of a corresponding receiving socket of the tool such that the tool may support on the connection elements 60. It is understood that, instead of latches other connection elements such as pens or flanges can be provided.

[0073] The rod 62 may advantageously be positioned centrally in the shank 28. To accommodate the rod 62 a bore may be provided in the shank 28 extending through the upper end 30, the shank body 54 and through at least a part of the lower end 34. A central axis of the rod 62 may be aligned with a central axis of the shank 28 along the axial direction X. This may be advantageous for actuation of the rod 62, in particular when also a slewing motion S may be allowed. The rod 62 is typically radially fixed to the shank 28, but axially movable with respect to the shank 28. The actuation system 58 may be fixedly mounted to the support block 24 and hence, may not rotate when the cap system 32 and the shank 28 are in a slewing motion. The engagement of the actuation system 58 with the rod 62 therefor provides for axial engagement while allowing rotational movement. Various solutions may be possible, such as e.g. a circumferential slit in which the actuation system 58 can engage.

[0074] Advantageously, the lower end 34 of the shank 28 comprises a conical shaped tip 68. Such conical shaped tip 68 may facilitate the searching towards a receiving opening of the receiving socket of the tool to be connected.

[0075] Figures 5 and 6 show the quick connection system 36 at the lower end 34 of the shank 28. The connection elements 60 are here shown as swivable latches 60 in the engaged position, namely the connection elements extend at least partly outside of a circumference of the shank 28. When extending outside of the shank 28, a support surface 80 is available outside of the shank 28 for a tool to be able to rest upon the support surfaces 80. The tool may thereto be provided with a receiving socket in which the quick connection system 36 can be received, e.g. in which the lower end 34 of the shank 28 can be received. The receiving socket may be provided with a rim, which rim may be configured to rest upon the support surfaces 80 of the connection elements 60. When lifted, the weight of the tool is supported by the support surfaces of the connection elements, and load is being transferred via the connection elements to the shank of the connector assembly 200. The connection elements 60 are also movable towards a free position in which the connection elements 60 are free from an outside of the shank and may be received in corresponding recesses 82 of the shank 28. In the cross-section of Figure 5 it can be seen that an under side 84 of a connection element 60 is cylindrical shaped having a cylindrical outer surface 86. The recess 82 in which the connection element 60 is receivable has a lower side that is correspondingly cylindrical shaped and has a cylindrical surface 88. It may be understood that when referring to a cylindrical surface, the surface does not need to encompass an entire cylinder, but may encompass a circumferential section of a cylinder. Here, the connection element 60 has a cylindrical surface 86 engaging with a corresponding cylindrical surface 88 of the recess. The connection element 60 may then rotate with respect to the shank 28 by sliding movement of the cylindrical surfaces 86, 88 with respect to each other. A rotation of the connection element 60 may result around a rotation axis A which advantageously coincides with a central axis of a cylinder of which the corresponding cylindrical surfaces form sections. It is understood that in practice there may not be a perfect alignment of the rotation axis A with the cylindrical central axis, due to manufacturing, assembly, wear and other tolerances. Here, the connection elements 60 rotate without a fixed rotation shaft, and as such may be referred to as swiveling connection elements 60. Alternatively, the connection elements may be connected to the shank via a fixed rotation shaft. To reduce the possibility of the connection elements 60 disengaging from the recess 82, a holder plate 90 is provided. An upper inner side of the holder plate 90 may have the same cylindrical shaped surface 92 such that the cylindrical surface 84 of the lower side of the recess 82 continues in the holder plate 90. The holder plate 90 may thus improve the holding of the connection element 60 to the cylindrical surface 88 of the recess 82. As can be seen in Figure 6, a slit 94 may be provided that may engage to the holder plate 90.

[0076] The quick connection system 36, comprising the connection elements 60, is actuated by the actuation system 58 described above. The actuation movement is transmitted from the actuation system 58 to the quick connection system 36 via an operable connection system 130. Since the actuation system 58 is above the support block 24 and the quick connection system 36 below, the distance between the actuation system 58 and the quick connection system 36 is being bridged by at least the rod 62. The actuation system 58 actuates an upper end 62a of the rod 62 by inducing an upward or a downward movement to the rod 62. This translation movement is also applicable on a lower end of the rod 62, since the rod 62 may be a stiff part between the actuation system 58 and the quick connection system 36. At a lower end 62b of the rod 62 a bridge element 132 is provided to link the lower end 62b of the rod 62 to the connection elements 60 and to transfer the actuation movement to movement of the connection elements 60. The bridge element 132 transmits a translational movement of the rod 62 into a rotational movement of the connection elements 60. Alternatively, the connection elements may be translated radially outwardly of the shank, then the bridge element may transmit the axial translation of the rod into a radial translation of the connection elements. It may be understood that many embodiments are possible.

[0077] In Figure 7, the connection elements 60 are shown evenly distributed circumferentially. The shank is omitted, but the holder plates 90 remain visible as they define an extension of the cylindrical surface 88 to which the cylindrical surface 86 of the connection elements 60 contacts. The holder plates 90 are fixedly connected to the shank 28, e.g. by bolting or welding. Here two bolts can be seen for each holder plate 90.

[0078] The bridge element 132 comprises a frame 134 mounted to the lower end 62b of the rod 62. The frame 134 is here embodied as some cart wheel having a circumferential rim 136 connected to the rod 62 with spokes 138. On the circumferential rim 136 posts 140 are provided that extend in upward direction. To the posts 140, pins 142 are mounted that engage in corresponding grooves 144 of associated connection elements 60. The groove 144 in the connection element 60 is shaped such that movement of the pin 142 through the groove 144 induces adjustment of the connection elements 60 from the free position to the engaged position and vice versa. So, by an axial translation movement of the rod 62, the bridge element 134 moves axially as well, the posts 14 move axially, and the pins 142 on the posts move together with the posts 140 in axial direction. Due to the movement of the pins 142 and the engagement of the pins 142 in the grooves 144, the pins 142 move through the grooves 144. The grooves 144 have a predetermined shape such that movement of the pins 142 through the grooves 144 induce a rotation movement of the connection elements 60 with respect to the cylindrical surfaces 86, 88. Thus a rotation movement of the connection elements 60 is obtained. The posts 140 are at or near an outer side of the shank and are positioned in between two adjacent connection elements. The pins 142 are provided at a top side of the posts 140 and protrude towards opposite sides with respect to the posts and towards its associated connection element 60. Since the connection elements 60 are positioned in a circumferential configuration, the pins 142 have an elbow-shape such that an end of the pin 142 engaging in the groove 144 is oriented approximately transversely with respect to the groove to improve alignment and contact. The bridge element 134 is positioned below the connection elements, with the posts 140 in between the connection elements 60. As such, load transfer from the support surfaces 80 through the connection elements 60 via the cylindrical surfaces 84, 86 to the shank 28 remains uninterrupted, which may be beneficial for stress, fatigue, etc.

[0079] As can be seen in Figure 6, in the shank 28 are recesses 146 and 148 provided to allow an axial translation movement of the bridge element 134. The recesses 146 accommodates the spokes 138 of the bridge element, while the recess 148 accommodates the rim 136 and the posts 140. In figure 6 can also be seen that upper parts of the posts 140 disappear inside of the shank 28 where bores are provided to accommodate the posts 140 and the pins 142. In Figure 5 can be seen that the recess 148 may be covered by a circumferential cover 150 being flush with an outer side of the shank 28 and protecting the bridge element 134 from dirt, ingress and other environmental influences.

[0080] Figures 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B and 10 give an alternative embodiment of the bridge element 134. Here, the bridge element 134 comprises a nose 152 that is fixedly mounted to the connection element 60 and movable engaged to the rod 62. The nose 152 is at one end fixedly mounted to the connection element 60 and radially facing inwards. An opposite end 154 of the nose 152 is movable engaged to the rod 62, in particular to a circumferential groove 156 provided in the rod 62. In the groove 156, the nose ends 154 are received, and when axially translating the rod 62, the nose ends 154 are taken along in the groove 156 thereby causing an angular change of the position of the nose and, consequently, of the connection elements 60. To accommodate the noses 152 in the shank 62, radial bores 158 are provided through which the noses 152 extend, as can be seen in Figure 11.

[0081] In Figures 8 A and 8B, the connection elements are shown in their free position, flush with or inside of the outer side of the shank 28. In the free position of the connection elements, the shank 28 can be inserted in a corresponding receiving socket of the tool-to-be-coupled. Once received in the receiving socket, the connection elements 60 can be actuated, via the actuation system 58 and the operable connection system 130, to the engaged position, as shown in Figures 9A and 9B. In the engaged position, the connection elements 60 are at least partly outside of a contour of the shank such that the support surfaces 80 become exposed outside of the shank 28. The receiving socket of the tool, e.g. a rim provided in the receiving socket, may then support onto the support surfaces 80 when the tool is being lifted.

[0082] In Figure 11 the lower end 34 of the shank 28 is shown with the connection elements 60 omitted. The recesses 82 in which the connection elements 60 may be housed are shown. Also shown in the recesses 82 is a cam 160. This cam 160 is optional and can be provided irrespective of the embodiment of the bridge element 134 of the operable connection system. The connection elements 60 have a corresponding recess 162, shown in Figure 10 or in Figure 7, in which the cam engages. The cam 160 and corresponding recess 162 may facilitate easy mounting and demounting of the connection element 60 in the recess 82. The cam 160 and the corresponding recess 162 may be provided additionally or even alternatively to the holder plate 90. The holder plate 90 with the associated groove 94 on the connection element 60 may confine the connection element 60 to the recess 82. An alternative embodiment of holding the connection element 60 to the shank 28 is shown in Figure 12. The cam 160 and recess 162 are here omitted, and the holder plate 90 has an inwardly curved top and engages with a groove in the connection element. The recess 82 may then become simpler to machine and manufacture in absence of the cam.

[0083] Although the invention has been explained further herein using examples of embodiments and drawings, these do not limit the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Within said scope, many variations, combinations and extensions are possible, as shall be appreciated by the skilled person having the benefit of the present disclosure. For example, the suspension members at each side may comprise one or more cheeks, and / or may provide for a cardan-suspension. Also, the connection elements of the quick connection system may be actuated in various manners, the actuation system may be inside of the shank or may be above the shank, as described above. The operable connection between the actuation system and the connection elements may be a mechanical connection and / or an electrical connection and / or a hydraulic connection. Further, it is noted that the actuation system is described as actuating towards the connected condition and towards the disconnected condition. It may be understood that the actuation system may be configured to actuate in a single direction, towards either the connected or the disconnected condition, while a biasing element may be provided that biases the quick connection system to the other one of the connected or the disconnected condition. For example, actuation towards the disconnected condition may be arranged, while the biasing element biases the quick connection system to the connected condition. Then, insertion of the shank with the quick connection system into a receiving socket of the tool can be done while the connection elements are in engaged position. While going through the receiving opening of the receiving socket, the connection elements may be pushed inwardly, and, once the receiving opening is passed, the connection elements are urged outwardly again by the biasing element. All such variants are included in the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

Claims1. Connector assembly for mounting to a crane block for connection to an exchangeable tool, wherein the connector system comprises:- a support block configured for rotatable mounting around a rotation axis to the crane block, the support block having a passage extending transverse to the rotation axis;- a connector shank supported by the support block and receivable in the passage, the connector shank having an upper end extending above the support block, the connector shank having a lower end provided with a quick connection system for releasable connection with various tools.

2. Connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the support block is provided with two shaft ends for rotatable mounting in associated suspension members of the crane block.

3. Connector assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the shank is receivable in the passage in an upward movement from below the support block.

4. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper end of the shank is configured to fit through the passage of the support block, and / or wherein a cap system is provided to mount the shank, preferably the upper end of the shank, to the support block.

5. Connector assembly according to claim 4, wherein between the cap system and the support block a bearing is provided.

6. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cap system comprises a skirt surrounding the upper end of the shank and a lid closing off the upper end of the shank and fixed to the skirt.

7. Connector assembly according to claim 6, wherein the cap system further comprises at least two ring segment elements for engaging the upper end of the shank.

8. Connector assembly according to claim 7, wherein the ring segment elements are clamped between the shank and the skirt.

9. Connector assembly according to claim 7 and to claim 8, wherein the ring segment elements are configured to be confined between a shoulder of the upper end of the shank and a seat of the skirt.

10. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper end of the shank has an outer diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the passage of the support block to allow the upper end to pass through the passage.

11. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cap system is provided with a slew actuation system configured to actuate the cap system and the shank in a slewing manner with respect to the support block.

12. Connector assembly according to claim 11, wherein the slew actuation system comprises a toothed rack fixed to the cap system, preferably to a skirt of the cap system, and at least one slew actuator engaged to the toothed rack and mounted to the support block.

13. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lower end of the shank extends below the support block.

14. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lower end of the shank is connected to the upper end of the shank via a cylindrical shank body, preferably wherein the upper end, the shank body and the lower end are a single piece.

15. Connector assembly according to claim 14, wherein a lower part of the shank body extending below the support block has a larger outer diameter than an upper part of the shank body extending through and above the support block.

16. Connector assembly according to claim 14 or 15, wherein between the lower part of the shank body and the support block a distance keeper is provided to prevent unintentional upward movement of the shank.

17. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the quick connection system comprises an actuation system wherein the actuation system is at least partly positioned above the support block.

18. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the quick connection system is adjustable between a connected condition in which there is a locking engagement with a tool and a disconnected condition in which the connection system cannot engage the tool.

19. Connector assembly according to claim 17 and claim 18, wherein the actuation system is operable connected to the quick connection system.

20. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the quick connection system comprises a number of movable connection elements, preferably latches, evenly distributed around a circumference of the lower end of the shank.

21. Connector assembly according to claim 20, wherein the connection elements are operable between an engaged position in which the connection elements protrude outwardly with respect to the shank and the free position in which the connection elements are within the shank.

22. Connector assembly according to claim 18 and claim 21, wherein in the connected condition of the quick connection system the connection elements are in the engaged position, and wherein in the disconnected condition the connection elements are in the free position.

23. Connector assembly according to any of the claims 17 - 22, wherein the actuation system is operable connected to the quick connection system via an operable connection system.

24. Connector assembly according to claim 23, wherein the operable connection system comprises a rod which at an upper end is operable by the actuation system and at a lower end is engageable to the connection elements.

25. Connector assembly according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the rod at its lower end is engageable to the connection elements via a bridge element, preferably wherein the bridge element is fixedly mounted to one of the connection element and the rod, and the bridge element is movable engaged to the other one of the connection element and the rod, such thatactuation of the rod adjusts the connection elements between the free position and the engaged position.

26. Connector assembly according to claim 25, wherein the bridge element comprises a frame mounted to a lower end of the rod with pins engaged in a groove of associated connection elements, wherein the groove is shaped such that movement of the pin through the groove induces adjustment of the connection elements from the free position to the engaged position.

27. Connector assembly according to claim 26, wherein each connection element is provided with two grooves, wherein in each groove a corresponding pin is engaged, preferably wherein the grooves are provided on opposite sides of the connection elements which sides extending in an approximate radial direction with respect to the shank.

28. Connector assembly according to any of the claims 25 - 27, wherein the bridge element of the operable connection system is provided below the connection elements, for example wherein the frame provides upwardly extending posts on which the pins are provided.

29. Connector assembly according to claim 28, wherein between adjacent connection elements a post is provided, preferably wherein on such a post two pins are provided each engaging with an associated connection element.

30. Connector assembly according to claim 25, wherein the bridge element is provided as a nose fixedly mounted to one of the connection element and the rod and wherein the bridge element is movably engaged in a groove of the other one of the connection element and the rod, for examplewherein the nose is provided at a side of the connection element facing radially inwardly.

31. Connector assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lower end of the shank is provided with a conical shaped tip.

32. Crane block configured to be connected to a crane, the crane block comprising two parallel suspension members, such as cheeks, each provided with at least two corresponding openings, of which first openings are configured to receive shaft ends of a support block of a connector assembly, and of which the at least one other openings are configured to receive a suspension bar, wherein the connector assembly is a connector assembly according to any of the claims 1 - 31.

33. Crane block according to claim 32, wherein in each suspension member, the first opening is located at a distance below the at least one second opening.

34. Crane block according to claim 32 or claim 33, wherein each suspension member comprises two second openings at a distance above the first opening.

35. Crane comprising a crane block according to any of the claims 32 - 34.

36. Method for exchanging tools to a crane block, the method comprising:- providing a crane block with a connector assembly according to any of the claims 1 - 31;- providing at least one tool, wherein the tool has a receiving socket configured for receiving at least the lower end of the connector assembly, the receiving socket having an inwardly protruding rim;- lowering the shank of the connector assembly with its lower end in the receiving socket of the tool until connection elements of the quick connection system are below the rim of the receiving socket;- actuating the connection elements to a connected condition in which they are in locking engagement with the tool, preferably in locking engagement with the rim of the receiving socket.

37. Method according to claim 36, wherein in the connected condition the connection elements are moved radially outwardly of the shank such that, when lifting the tool, the rim rests on the outwardly extended connection elements.

38. Method according to claim 36 or 37, further comprising exchanging a tool from the connector assembly by- actuating the connection elements to a free position in which the connection elements are within the shank and become free of the rim;- lifting the shank out of the tool;- providing a second tool;- lowering the shank of the connector assembly with its lower end in the receiving socket of the second tool until connection elements of the quick connection system are below the rim of the receiving socket;- actuating the connection elements to an engaged position in which they are in locking engagement with the second tool, preferably in locking engagement with the rim of the receiving socket.

39. Set of a connector assembly according to any of the claims 1 - 31 and a number of tools, each releasable connectable to the connector assembly.

40. Set according to claim 39, wherein each tool is provided with a receiving socket for engaging with the connector assembly, in particular with a lower end of the shank of the connector assembly.

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