Impact clamp

Abstract

The invention relates to a clamping device (1) for clamping a workpiece (25), wherein: the clamping device (1) has a pillar (3) to be fastened to a machining table (5), and a clamping arm (7) which is mounted on the pillar (3), so as to be slidable along the pillar (3) in a sliding direction (V), by means of an intermediate part (9) engaging around the pillar (3); the clamping arm (7) has a proximal portion (7a) via which it is mounted on the pillar (3), and a distal portion (7b) on which a holder (11) for a placement piece (13) to be placed on a workpiece (25) to be clamped onto the machining table (5) is provided; and the intermediate part (9) can be self-lockingly fixed to the pillar (3) by tilting in order to clamp the workpiece (25).

Description

[0001] Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0002] 220551PC

[0003] Impact clamp

[0004] The present invention relates to an effective clamping device for clamping workpieces to a worktable, which is space-saving and flexible in its application.

[0005] Various types of clamping devices for use on so-called clamping tables or welding tables, designed for clamping workpieces, are known in the prior art. For example, screw clamps are known that have a vertical and a cross brace. A threaded spindle is held at one free end of the cross brace, allowing workpieces to be fixed, for example, on a welding table. Lever clamps are similarly constructed, but in these, the threaded spindle and its mounting are replaced by an eccentric lever unit, enabling faster clamping. These types of known clamping devices have a number of disadvantages. In particular, the threaded spindle and the eccentric lever unit require space for the operator to grip, and the gripping elements themselves also take up space. Furthermore, sometimes considerable operating forces are required to clamp and release these known clamping devices.

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a clamping device that is more efficient and faster to operate, while still enabling secure clamping.

[0007] The invention solves the problem according to the independent claims. Further preferred developments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0008] The clamping device according to the invention for clamping a workpiece can have a column for attachment to a worktable and a clamping arm which is slidably mounted on the column in a displacement direction along the column by means of an intermediate part that at least partially encompasses the column. The clamping arm can have a proximal section where it is mounted on the column and a distal section where a receptacle for a support piece for resting on a workpiece to be clamped onto the worktable can be provided. The intermediate part for clamping the workpiece is self-locking by tilting. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0009] The intermediate part 220551PC can be fixed to the column. For this purpose, the intermediate part can have a first striking surface, in particular a force transmission flank for clamping, for transmitting the force along a fixing direction, and preferably a second striking surface (in particular a force transmission flank for loosening the clamping), which is preferably spaced apart from the first striking surface, for transmitting the force along a loosening direction (i.e., for releasing the clamping). Preferably, the force transmission flank extends in the direction of impact. A striking surface can be a surface arranged such that, upon a mechanical impact on this surface, (in particular, predetermined) forces are introduced into the intermediate part and thus into the connected tubes or clamping arms in order to achieve a controlled clamping action (i.e., the clamping striking surface).Conversely, this also applies to releasing the jam by striking a suitable striking surface with a (hammer) on the surface provided for this purpose. Preferably, the striking surface extends substantially orthogonally or at least obliquely to the direction of displacement. Advantageously, a striking surface can be a (hardened) end face of the projection of the intermediate part. Particularly preferably, the striking surface is a flat surface, allowing for even more precise force application.

[0010] The intermediate piece thus provides a mechanical (especially detachable) connection between the column and the clamping arm. For example, the column passes through a first hole in the intermediate piece. This first hole preferably has a circular or annular cross-section. The intermediate piece, with the clamping arm attached to it, can be moved along the column. For example, in the operating state of the clamping device, the column is essentially vertically oriented. The clamping arm, with the intermediate piece, can then be moved up and down along the column. The support piece can be positioned to rest on a workpiece placed on the worktable. If the clamping arm is now moved, for example by one or more blows (especially...Pressing the workpiece against the designated striking surface in a direction primarily downwards, preferably acting near the column, results in a very efficient and quickly achievable clamping action between the workpiece and the clamping device. The impacts are preferably achieved using a conventional impact wrench or a hammer. The force is exerted, for example, on the intermediate piece (especially on the designated striking surface). The force flow of the resulting clamping action extends from the workpiece. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026.

[0011] 220551PC onto the support piece, into the clamping arm, into the column attached to the worktable, into the worktable. A drawer effect occurs between the intermediate part with the clamping arm attached to it and the column, i.e., a mechanical clamping of the intermediate part to the column due to tilting. Therefore, preferably, tightening via a spindle to achieve clamping is unnecessary.

[0012] The aforementioned mechanical clamping can also be achieved if the column projects in a different direction, i.e., not vertically from the worktable, and a workpiece is clamped between the support piece and the worktable. For clamping, the intermediate piece or clamping arm is again pressed so that the support piece presses against the workpiece. Preferably, one or more blows are struck on the intermediate piece along a striking direction and / or along the column, whereby these blows do not necessarily have to be parallel to the column, although a striking direction essentially parallel to the column has proven to be the most efficient.

[0013] The jamming can be released, for example, by one or more blows to the intermediate piece (especially to the designated striking surface or impact transmission flank). The direction of the blows is preferably at an acute angle to an orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the column, and particularly preferably at an angle of 45 degrees to an orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the column. Within this angle range, the clamping connection can be released particularly easily and is simple for the operator to perform.

[0014] The clamping device according to the invention enables efficient clamping of workpieces with minimal restriction of the working area around the workpiece. The very flat design is particularly advantageous, as it eliminates protruding edges in the working area. This offers significant benefits regarding access to the workpiece during machining. Despite high achievable clamping forces, the clamping device is subject to minimal wear due to its structural design. Quick and easy operation is possible for both clamping and releasing the clamping connection, saving time and increasing workplace safety. Furthermore, the clamping device requires less physical effort to operate than conventional clamping systems; in particular, the operator's wrist is subjected to minimal strain during clamping and releasing. Despite high achievable clamping forces, Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG, February 2026

[0015] The 220551PC clamping device is quickly and flexibly adjustable to any clamping task. Its design ensures technical durability and therefore high availability. Due to its compact size, the clamping device can be used in a wide variety of applications, including clamping tasks in hard-to-reach areas such as inside pipes and cavities. The device's structural design allows for the replacement of individual parts, simplifying maintenance.

[0016] The clamping arm can also be self-locking to the intermediate section by tilting it. The clamping arm is slidably mounted in its longitudinal direction, for example, within the intermediate section. This allows the distance between a central axis of the receptacle and a central axis of the column to be changed. For a receptacle or column with an essentially cylindrical shape, the central axes correspond to the respective cylinder axes. If the shape is a symmetrical body, the axis of symmetry is assumed to be the central axis; otherwise, it runs along the longitudinal direction of the body, following its centroids in cross-section. With an essentially cylindrical column and an essentially round bore in the receptacle for attaching a cylindrical support piece arranged coaxially to the bore, the overhang of the clamping device, corresponding to the distance between the two central axes, can thus be varied.This allows workpieces to be clamped at different positions on the worktable. Preferably, the column is pivotably mounted on the worktable about its central axis, for example, supported by a bore in the worktable. Alternatively, the column can be attached by means of a mounting bracket screwed or clamped to the worktable, to which it is preferably rotatably attached. The self-locking mechanism of the clamping arm in the intermediate section functions analogously to the self-locking mechanism between the column and the intermediate section described above. Here, too, the cause is a drawer effect, i.e., the mechanical clamping of the clamping arm in the intermediate section due to tilting. The clamping arm is held in place by the intermediate section by a clamping force exerted on the workpiece by the support piece, resulting from this tilting action. The clamping or...The release is advantageously achieved by striking the designated striking surface on the intermediate part, in particular a striking transmission flank.

[0017] The clamping arm can project laterally from the column. The longitudinal axis of the clamping arm can be spaced apart and essentially oblique or orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the column. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0018] The clamping arm is arranged on the column (220551PC). The longitudinal axis of the clamping arm and the longitudinal axis of the column are, for example, skewed (or oblique) relative to each other. This allows for axial displacement of the clamping arm alongside the column, thus increasing the spatial freedom of movement of the clamping arm, which is advantageous with regard to spatial adaptation to machining tasks.

[0019] A particularly advantageous effect was observed when the axial length of the intermediate piece clamping around the column in the direction of displacement was less than 1 / 5 of the distance between the center axis of the mounting and the center axis of the column. This distance allows for a particularly rapid and reliable occurrence of the drawer effect, or clamping of the intermediate piece to the column, regardless of any lubricants that may be present on the column. The clamping width of the column, which is its radial extent through the intermediate piece in the clamping area, can, for example, be chosen to be smaller than the axial length of the intermediate piece clamping around the column in the direction of displacement. This can enhance the drawer effect, accelerate its occurrence, or ensure its more reliable occurrence in the presence of dirt in the clamping area.

[0020] The clamping arm can be slidably mounted on the intermediate part in a clamping arm displacement direction. Preferably, a displacement limiter, for example a stop on the clamping arm against the intermediate part, is provided so that the distance between the central axis of the receptacle and the central axis of the column remains sufficiently large for the drawer effect; preferably, the length over which the intermediate part clamps around the column in the displacement direction remains less than 1 / 5 of the distance between the central axis MA of the receptacle and the central axis MA of the column.

[0021] The support piece can be equipped with a pressure plate for contact with the workpiece to be clamped, which has a ball-joint-type pivotable lower part. This design enables improved contact and force transmission on uneven or slightly inclined workpiece surfaces.

[0022] The support piece can include a bridge on which at least two of the pressure plates, including pressure plates where the lower part is not designed to pivot like a ball joint, are provided for contact with the workpiece to be clamped, located on both sides of the Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0023] The clamping bridge is arranged in a 220551PC receptacle. The bridge is an elongated component held by the receptacle and allows for the spaced attachment of pressure plates or similar devices for pressing the workpiece. This enables two clamping points to be realized simultaneously, allowing a workpiece to be held at multiple points or multiple workpieces to be held on the worktable. A clamping bridge allows for the simultaneous clamping of several parts or the simple clamping of complex parts, while still being easily replaceable. It is also advantageous if at least two pressure pieces are arranged on the clamping bridge for support against the surroundings. A further advantageous embodiment of the invention consists in the fact that two ball heads are attached to the clamping bridge, to which two pressure pieces can be detachably attached. The pressure piece can be placed on the ball head and serve as a press stop for the component.According to the invention, it has also proven very advantageous for the ball head to have a spherical head and a dowel pin. The dowel pin is used to attach the ball head to various workpieces, while the spherical head serves to connect it to the pressure piece. The dowel pin can be either cylindrical or conical. The conical design allows for easier removal from the respective workpieces.

[0024] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the entire clamping device requires no threads whatsoever. In particular, at least the intermediate part can be designed without threads (i.e., without a thread or spindle). This allows for particularly efficient clamping.

[0025] The column can consist of two parts that can be telescopically moved into one another. This allows the column's length to be adjusted and adapted to workpieces of varying sizes. The column parts can be locked in a sliding position relative to each other, for example, using a clamping or locking element.

[0026] The clamping arm, in the unloaded and ready-for-operation state of the clamping device, is aligned with the worktable at a first angle of less than 90 degrees to the longitudinal direction of the column, and in particular at a first angle between 80 and 85 degrees to the longitudinal direction of the column. When the clamping device is clamped, this first angle is reduced by deformation of the Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0027] The clamping device (220551PC) is enlarged by the play between the guided moving parts. This results in an optimized alignment of the clamping arm for the clamping task when the clamping device is clamped. For the reasons mentioned above, the clamping arm can also point obliquely downwards at a second angle of less than 90 degrees to the vertical when the clamping device is unloaded and ready for operation, and in particular at a second angle between 80 and 85 degrees to the vertical.

[0028] The intermediate section can feature a hardened insert, making it particularly wear-resistant. Impacts applied to the hardened insert, for example, result in very little wear. The intermediate section can be provided with a projection (impact transmission flank with one or more striking surfaces) extending away from the column, for example, towards the mounting point on the clamping arm. This projection allows for targeted force application and also provides an enlarged striking surface for impacts on the intermediate section, enabling the required forces to be applied with particular efficiency. The projection can incorporate the hardened insert, making it easily accessible to the operator. The insert is secured in the intermediate section, for example, by clamping, soldering, or gluing.For example, the insert is cylindrically shaped and fits into a blind hole that is closed towards the machining table, which ensures a particularly good and durable hold of the insert in the intermediate part. Alternatively, the intermediate part (including impact transmission flanks) is an integral component, such as a forged or cast / die-cast part.

[0029] The projection can be attached to the intermediate part by means of a weld. This enables a particularly durable attachment of the projection to the intermediate part, even under alternating stresses. The weld can consist of several weld points.

[0030] Advantageously, a first projection can be provided on the intermediate part to provide a first striking surface for clamping the clamping device. Additionally, a second projection (spaced apart and separate from the first projection) can be provided on the intermediate part to provide a second striking surface for releasing the clamp. The projections can have markings indicating their function (locking or releasing). Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0031] 220551PC

[0032] For example, the column and / or the clamping arm are preferably at least partially made of hardened steel. This increases strength and durability. Preferably, sliding surfaces between the column or clamping arm on the intermediate section are also made of hardened steel to reduce wear.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, at least one striking surface (preferably all striking surfaces of the impact transmission flanks) can be hardened. This allows for particularly efficient clamping, even with frequent use.

[0034] The inventive method for clamping a workpiece on a worktable using a clamping device, as described above, comprises, for example, the following steps: lowering the clamping arm to press the workpiece against the worktable and generating an elastic clamping force between the workpiece and the worktable by means of the clamping device, wherein the intermediate part for clamping the workpiece is self-lockingly fixed to the column by tilting. The workpiece is positioned on the worktable, for example, manually or automatically, before clamping. To ensure that the support element makes contact with the workpiece, i.e., before elastic clamping, the clamping arm can also be lowered slightly beforehand.

[0035] When clamping the workpiece, one or more blows can be applied to the intermediate part, in particular using a hammer, electromechanical oscillator, pneumatic oscillator, electric impact wrench, pneumatic impact wrench, impulse wrench, or hydraulic impact wrench, to generate elastic clamping force. This is preferably done essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column, which allows for particularly efficient force application through the blows.

[0036] To release the tension, one or more blows with a directional component essentially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the column can be applied to the intermediate section, in particular using a hammer, electromechanical oscillator, pneumatic oscillator, electric impact wrench, pneumatic impact wrench, impulse wrench, or hydraulic impact wrench. The blows cause vibrations in the intermediate section, which leads to the release of the mechanical tension. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0037] 220551PC Tension, leading to tilting.

[0038] For example, the impacts are applied to the projection. The projection is positioned slightly away from the intermediate part, making it easier to reach with the impact-applying tool. This facilitates the operation of the clamping device. Applying the impacts to the hardened insert has the advantage that its high strength allows it to transmit the impacts effectively, resulting in less wear on the hardened insert. This, in turn, improves the service life of the clamping device.

[0039] The assembly or welding table can have a tabletop with system holes, e.g., D28, in a 50 x 50 mm grid. Additionally, a three-row hole pattern can be provided on the table sides. The system holes can advantageously also have protective countersinks.

[0040] It is in the sense of the present invention that the aforementioned device and method features can be combined with one another, in particular that the described method is carried out with the clamping device shown.

[0041] The invention is described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings. These show:

[0042] Fig. 1 shows the clamping device according to the invention in a first embodiment in a schematic perspective view;

[0043] Fig. 2 shows the clamping device according to the invention in a second embodiment in a schematic perspective view;

[0044] Fig. 3 shows an adjusting ring on the clamping device according to the invention in the first embodiment in a schematic perspective view;

[0045] Fig. 4 shows the adjusting ring according to Fig. 3 in a schematic perspective view.

[0046] Illustration; Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0047] 220551PC Fig. 5 the intermediate part according to the first and second embodiments in a schematic perspective view from above; and

[0048] Fig. 6 shows the intermediate part according to Fig. 5 in a schematic perspective view from below.

[0049] The following section describes various examples in detail with reference to the figures. Identical or similar elements in the figures are designated with the same reference symbols. However, this is not intended to limit the description to the examples provided; rather, the subject matter described can also include modifications of features from the described examples and combinations of features from different examples.

[0050] Fig. 1 shows the clamping device 1 according to a first embodiment in a schematic perspective view.

[0051] The clamping device 1 has a column 3 for attachment to a worktable 5. In Fig. 1, the column 3 is shown in cross-section as being essentially cylindrical and tubular in some sections, extending approximately vertically upwards. In this application, directional terms such as "upwards" refer to the clamping device 1 in its operational configuration. Accordingly, the worktable 5 is shown in an approximately horizontal orientation. The column 3 can, of course, also have a different cross-sectional shape, for example, be partially rectangular. In this embodiment, the column 3 extends into a bore (e.g., a system bore) in the worktable 5 (e.g., an assembly table) and is rotatably mounted there. Alternatively, the column 3 can be attached by means of a mounting bracket that is screwed onto or clamped to the worktable, to which it is preferably rotatably attached.

[0052] In this embodiment, the column 3 has a first part 3a and a second part 3b, which can be telescopically inserted into one another. This allows the length of the column 3 to be changed and adapted to workpieces 25 of varying heights. The parts 3a and 3b of the column 3 can be locked relative to each other against displacement by means of a clamping element 19. Likewise, the column 3 can be operated without the length adjustment capability, i.e., without being divided into the two parts 3a and 3b. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0053] 220551PC trained.

[0054] The clamping device 1 also includes a clamping arm 7, which is attached to the column 3 by means of an intermediate part 9. In this embodiment, the intermediate part 9 completely surrounds the column 3 and is slidably mounted on it in a displacement direction V. This complete surround provides particularly high stability. The intermediate part 9 can also partially surround the column 3, allowing for improved fit between the column 3 and the intermediate part 9. In this embodiment, the displacement direction V runs parallel to the central axis MS of the essentially cylindrical column 3. The central axis MS is shown as a dashed line in the figure. The intermediate part 9 can be self-lockingly fixed to the column 5 by tilting it to clamp the workpiece 25. The column 3 can also have other cross-sectional shapes, for example, rectangular, elliptical, or polygonal.

[0055] The clamping arm 7 has a proximal section 7a, where it is supported on the column 3, and a distal section 7b, which has a receptacle 11 for a support piece 13 for resting against a workpiece 25 to be clamped onto the worktable 5. The receptacle 11 has, for example, a bore for attaching the support piece 13; its central axis is functionally marked in the image with a dashed line as the central axis MA of the receptacle. In this embodiment, the clamping arm 7 is cylindrical in the region of the distal section 7a; therefore, a dashed line is shown in the image along the central axis MG of the clamping arm 7 in its proximal section 7a. The clamping arm 7 can also have other cross-sectional shapes, for example, be essentially rectangular, elliptical, or polygonal.

[0056] In this embodiment, a projection 21 is provided on the intermediate section 9, extending away from the column 5. In the image, the projection 21 is visible as an approximately cylindrical element on the side of the projection 21 facing the viewer. The projection 21 can project in one direction towards the support element 13 on the intermediate section 9. According to this embodiment, the projection 21 has a hardened insert 23, which is embedded in a bore in the projection 21.

[0057] The intermediate part 9 can be attached to the column 3 resulting from a support piece 13 on Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0058] 220551PC the workpiece 25 is held self-locking on the column 3 by means of the clamping force exerted by tilting.

[0059] In this embodiment, the clamping arm 7, when the clamping device 1 is unloaded and ready for operation, is aligned at a first angle wl of less than 90 degrees to the longitudinal direction of the column 5, pointing towards the working surface of the machining table 3; this first angle is indicated by an arc in the illustration. Since the working surface of the machining table 3 is horizontally oriented in this embodiment, the clamping arm 7 points obliquely downwards at a second angle w2 of less than 90 degrees to the vertical. Therefore, in this embodiment, the angles wl and w2 are equal and are represented in the illustration by the same arc.By slightly tilting the clamping arm 7 downwards in the relaxed state of the clamping device 1, it can be achieved that the clamping arm 7 is aligned more parallel to the working surface of the machining table 3 in the clamped state due to play and elastic deformation in the intermediate part 9, thus improving the clamping results.

[0060] According to this embodiment, a pressure plate 15 is provided on the support element 13 for contact with the workpiece 25 to be clamped. The pressure plate 15 has a lower part 17 that is pivotably mounted on the pressure plate 15 via a ball joint. Alternatively, the lower part 17 can be fixedly integrated into or attached to the pressure plate 15. In this embodiment, the lower part 17 has a flat lower surface for contact with the workpiece 25. Due to its pivotable mounting, the lower part 17 can also rest flat on inclined surfaces of the workpiece 25, which allows for better pressure distribution on the workpiece 25 and an increased contact area with the workpiece 25, thus improving the clamping force.

[0061] In this embodiment, the clamping arm 7 is mounted on the intermediate part 9 so that it can be slidably moved in a clamping arm displacement direction S, as indicated by a double arrow. In this embodiment, the displacement direction S runs along the central axis MG of the clamping arm. The clamping arm 7 can be self-lockingly fixed to the intermediate part 9 by tilting it to clamp the workpiece 25.

[0062] Fig. 2 shows the clamping device 1 according to the invention as described in a second Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0063] 220551PC Exemplary design in a schematic perspective view.

[0064] Apart from the support piece 13 and the arrangement of the pressure plates 15, the second embodiment corresponds to the first embodiment and reference is made here to its above description.

[0065] According to the second embodiment, the support piece 13 comprises a bridge 20 on which at least two pressure plates 15 are provided. For this purpose, the bridge 20 may, for example, have several holes 27, which allow the pressure plates 15 to be attached at different positions by means of screws (not shown). The pressure plates 15 can thus be arranged closer together or further apart and their position can therefore be adapted to different clamping tasks with respect to the workpiece 25. Likewise, instead of the holes 27, other means for attaching the pressure plates 15 may be provided, or the pressure plates 15 may be integrally formed with the bridge 20 as one part. For example, only a pair of holes 27 may be provided to accommodate a pair of pressure plates 15. Likewise, the bridge 20 may also be, for example, plate-shaped or star-shaped and have more than two pressure plates 15 attached to it, e.g.Three, four, or five pressure plates 15 may be attached to or formed on the clamping device. All of these aforementioned variants of the clamping device 1 support the quick, flexible, and space-saving clamping of workpieces 25 on the machining table 5.

[0066] The pressure plates 15 each have a lower part 17, which is designed to rest against the workpiece 25 to be clamped. Each pressure plate 15 allows one workpiece 25 to be clamped or held; therefore, two workpieces 25 are shown in the figure.

[0067] The bridge 20, for example, has a groove 29 that runs between the holes 27, widens towards the side of the bridge 20 facing away from the receptacle 11, and thus provides a rear engagement for a fastening element (not shown) into which, for example, a screw 31 can engage to fasten the bridge 20 to the receptacle 11. This allows the bridge 20 to be moved along the groove 29 during assembly on the receptacle 11 and adjusted to the holding task.

[0068] Intermediate discs 33 are located on the pressure plate 15, i.e., between the bridge 20 and the Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0069] The lower part 17 of the 220551PC is provided so that the distance between the bridge 20 and the lower part 17 can be adjusted by selecting the number or thickness of the intermediate washers 11. For example, different thicknesses or numbers of intermediate washers 11 can be provided on both sides of the receptacle 11, which allows adaptation to a stepped contour of the workpiece 25 or workpieces 25 of different heights.

[0070] The pressure plates 15 are arranged on both sides of the receptacle 11, so that forces from one or more workpieces 25 can be transferred particularly well into the clamping arm 7.

[0071] Fig. 3 shows an adjusting ring 35 on the clamping device 1 according to the first embodiment in a schematic perspective view.

[0072] The adjusting ring 35 can also be provided on the clamping device 1 according to the second embodiment or it can be omitted.

[0073] In this embodiment, the adjusting ring 35 surrounds the column 3. An adjusting ring locking element 37 secures the adjusting ring 35 to the column 3, preventing it from sliding axially along the column. When the adjusting ring locking element 37 is released, the adjusting ring 35 can be moved axially along the column. In this embodiment, the adjusting ring locking element 37 is designed as a screw that can be screwed through an internally threaded hole in the adjusting ring 35. Turning the screw 37 against the column 3 creates tension, preventing the adjusting ring 35 from sliding.

[0074] Detent recesses (not shown) can be provided on the column 3 for the engagement of the screw 37, thus enabling a more secure hold at the predetermined intervals of the detent recesses. Likewise, the adjusting ring fixing element 37 can be designed as a bolt that can be guided through the bore in the adjusting ring 35 into the recess in the column 3 or into bores in the column 3 to lock the adjusting ring fixing element 37. For example, the bolt-shaped adjusting ring fixing element 37 is then pre-tensioned towards the column by means of a spring attached to the adjusting ring 35, so that automatic engagement in the Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0075] 220551PC column 3 results.

[0076] If the clamping device 1 is mounted in a bore (not shown) in the machining table 5, the adjusting ring 35 can be brought to rest on the machining table 5, thus preventing the column 3 from being inserted deeper into the machining table 5. This allows the height of the column 3 above the machining table 5 to be set. If the adjusting ring 35 is positioned higher, i.e., closer to the intermediate part 9, the column 5 can be inserted deeper into the machining table 5. If the adjusting ring 35 is positioned lower, i.e., further away from the intermediate part 9, the column 5 can protrude higher from the machining table 5. In this way, the working height of the clamping device 1 can be adjusted to the respective clamping task, in particular the height of the workpiece 25.

[0077] Fig. 4 shows the adjusting ring 35 according to Fig. 3 in a schematic perspective view.

[0078] The column 3 passes through the adjusting ring 35. In this embodiment, the adjusting ring 35 is designed as a closed ring. It is also possible to design the adjusting ring 35 as a ring segment, for example, as a three-quarter ring. In this embodiment, the adjusting ring fixing element 37 is designed as a socket head cap screw. Other screw types for the adjusting ring fixing element 37, such as external hexagon head screws, set screws, and the like, can also be used.

[0079] Fig. 5 shows the intermediate part 9 according to the first and second embodiments in a schematic perspective view from above.

[0080] In this embodiment, the intermediate part 9 has a bore 9a for receiving the column 3 and a bore 9b for receiving the clamping arm 7. The projection 21 (impact transmission flank) is visible on the upper side of the intermediate part 9 in the image. The projection 21 extends beyond the axial longitudinal extent of the bore 9b. In this embodiment, the projection 21 has an impact surface 21a, which is oriented perpendicular to the axial direction of the bore 9a for receiving the column 3. The impact surface 21a extends at least partially beyond the axial longitudinal extent of the bore 9b. This is advantageous for applying impacts to the intermediate part 9 as described above. The projection 21 is attached to Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0081] In the 220551PC embodiment, a wedge-shaped raised section 21b is arranged along the direction of the bore 9b for receiving the clamping arm 7. Raised section 21b means that its outer surface rises wedge-shaped towards the striking surface 21a, thus increasing its distance from the bore 9b. In this embodiment, the raised section 21b terminates at the striking surface 21a. The raised section 21b is wedge-shaped in this embodiment and is labeled "lock" in the image, which is advantageously laser-engraved in this embodiment. This provides a legible marking directly on the striking surface, describing its function. The striking surface for releasing the clamping mechanism therefore includes a marking or description that clearly indicates that striking this surface is intended to release the clamping force.According to the invention, a striking surface with a function marking (and preferably simultaneously hardened) can therefore be provided.

[0082] The bores 9a and 9b each have one or more grooves 10 for receiving elastic clamping rings (not shown). The clamping rings allow for improved retention of the intermediate part 9 on the column 3 or on the clamping arm 7, especially in the relaxed state of the clamping device 1, i.e., when no workpiece 25 is clamped.

[0083] Fig. 6 shows the intermediate part 9 according to Fig. 5 in a schematic perspective view from below, i.e., viewed from the direction of the worktable 5. In addition to the features already described with reference to Fig. 5, a second striking surface 22a is visible in Fig. 6, which is oriented perpendicular to the axial direction of the bore 9a for receiving the column 3. The second striking surface 22a is arranged at the end of a second raised section 22b that extends wedge-shaped from the bore 9a along the direction of the bore 9b for receiving the clamping arm 7. In this embodiment, the second striking surface 22a does not project beyond the bore 9b in its axial direction. The second raised section 22b is labeled “Unlock” in the image, which in this embodiment is implemented as a laser engraving.In this embodiment, the striking surface 21a and the second striking surface 22a are arranged opposite and parallel to each other such that the bore 9b runs between them. In this embodiment, the raised section 21b and the second raised section 22b extend such that an imaginary surface is defined by their two sections. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026.

[0084] 220551PC The symmetry surfaces run along the axis of symmetry of bore 9b. Likewise, the imaginary surface through the two aforementioned symmetry surfaces can run parallel to the axis of symmetry of bore 9b. The raised sections 21b and 22b extend radially away from bore 9b on both sides, opposite to the axis of bore 9b, thus forming a wedge with bore 9b running between them. The second striking surface 22a can also be formed analogously to striking surface 21a, projecting beyond the axial longitudinal extent of bore 9b. The second striking surface 22b serves to apply impacts to release the clamping connection of the clamping device. 1. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0085] 220551PC

[0086] Reference symbol list

[0087] I Clamping device

[0088] 3rd pillar

[0089] 3a first part

[0090] 3b second part

[0091] 5 processing table

[0092] 7 clamping arm

[0093] 7a proximal section

[0094] 7b distal section

[0095] 9 Intermediate part

[0096] 9a drilling

[0097] 9b drilling

[0098] 10 Nut

[0099] II recording

[0100] 13 pieces

[0101] 15 printing plates

[0102] 17 lower part

[0103] 19 clamping element

[0104] 20 Bridge

[0105] 21 lead

[0106] 21a Striking surface

[0107] 21b Survey section; (striking area)

[0108] 22a second striking surface

[0109] 22b second survey section; (impact surface) 23 hardened insert

[0110] 25 workpieces

[0111] 27 holes

[0112] 29 Nut

[0113] 31 screw

[0114] 33 Intermediate disc

[0115] 35 adjusting ring

[0116] 37 Adjusting ring fixing element

[0117] MA Central axis of the recording

[0118] MG Central axis of the clamping arm Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026

[0119] 220551PC

[0120] MS central axis of the column

[0121] S Clamping arm displacement direction V Displacement direction

[0122] wl first angle

[0123] w2 second angle

Claims

Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026 220551PC CLAIMS 1. Clamping device (1) for clamping a workpiece (25), wherein the clamping device (1) has a column (3) for attachment to a work table (5) and a clamping arm (7) which is slidably mounted on the column (3) in a displacement direction (V) along the column (3) by means of an intermediate part (9) which at least partially encompasses the column (3), wherein the clamping arm (7) has a proximal section (7a) where it is supported on the column (3) and a distal section (7b) where a receptacle (11) for a support piece (13) is provided for supporting a workpiece (25) to be clamped onto the worktable (5), and wherein the intermediate part (9) has at least a first striking surface (21a, 22a) such that the intermediate part (9) can be fixed to the column (3) by tilting in a self-locking manner for clamping the workpiece (25).

2. Clamping device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the clamping arm (7) for clamping the workpiece (25) can be fixed to the intermediate part (9) by tilting in a self-locking manner, and for this purpose a second striking surface (21a, 22a) is preferably provided on the intermediate part (9).

3. Clamping device (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate part (9) is held on the column (3) by tilting in a self-locking manner by a clamping force exerted on the workpiece (25) by the support piece (13).

4. Clamping device (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping arm (7) projects laterally away from the column (3) and preferably has its longitudinal axis spaced apart and is arranged substantially obliquely or orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the column (3), and the intermediate part (9) is preferably designed without threads.

5. Clamping device (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein an axial length in which the intermediate part (9) clamps around the column (3) in the displacement direction (V) is less than 1 / 5 of the distance. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026 220551PC is between a central axis (MA) of the recording (11) and a central axis (MA) of the column (3).

6. Clamping device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping arm (7) is arranged to be displaceable in a clamping arm displacement direction (S) on the intermediate part (9).

7. Clamping device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a pressure plate (15) for contact with the workpiece (25) to be clamped is provided on the support piece (13), which in particular has a lower part (17) designed to pivot in a ball joint manner.

8. Clamping device (1) according to claim 7, wherein the support piece (13) comprises a bridge (20) on which at least two of the pressure plates (15) are provided for support against the workpiece (25) to be clamped, which are arranged on both sides of the receptacle (11).

9. Clamping device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the column (3) has at least two parts (3a, 3b) which are telescopically slidable into one another and wherein preferably a clamping element or locking element (19) is provided with which a displacement position of the parts (3a, 3b) relative to each other can be locked.

10. Clamping device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping arm (7) in the unloaded and ready-for-operation state of the clamping device (1) is aligned at a first angle (wl) of less than 90 degrees to the longitudinal direction of the column (3) on the work table (5), in particular at a first angle (wl) between 80 degrees and 85 degrees to the longitudinal extension direction of the column (3).

11. Clamping device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping arm (7) in the unloaded and ready-for-operation state of the clamping device (1) points obliquely downwards at a second angle (w2) of less than 90 degrees to the vertical, in particular at a second angle (w2) between 80 degrees and 85 degrees to the vertical. Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026 220551PC 12. Clamping device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a first projection (21) is provided on the intermediate part (9) which extends along a clamping arm displacement direction (S), wherein the first projection (21) in particular has a hardened insert (23) and / or wherein at least a second projection is provided on the intermediate part (9) which extends along a clamping arm displacement direction (S), wherein the second projection in particular has a hardened insert.

13. Clamping device (1) according to claim 12, wherein the projection is attached to the intermediate part (9) by means of a welded connection and wherein the projection is an impact transmission flank.

14. Clamping device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the column (3) and / or the clamping arm (7) is preferably formed at least partially from hardened steel.

15. Method for clamping a workpiece (25) on a machining table (5) by means of a clamping device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least the following steps: Lowering the clamping arm (7) to press the workpiece against the worktable (5) and creating an elastic clamping force between the workpiece (25) and the worktable (5) by one or more blows to the intermediate part (9) for clamping the workpiece (25) so that the clamping arm (7) is self-lockingly fixed to the column (3) by tilting.

16. Method according to claim 15, wherein, when clamping the workpiece, one or more blows are applied to the intermediate part (9) to generate the elastic tension, in particular by means of a hammer, electromechanical oscillator, pneumatic oscillator, electric impact wrench, pneumatic impact wrench, impulse wrench or hydraulic impact wrench, preferably substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the column (3).

17. Method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein to release the tension one or Ludwig Demmeler GmbH & Co. KG February 2026 220551PC several blows with a substantially orthogonal directional component to the longitudinal axis of the column (3) are applied to the intermediate part (9), in particular by means of a hammer, electromechanical oscillator, pneumatic oscillator, electric impact wrench, pneumatic impact wrench, impulse wrench or hydraulic impact wrench.

18. Method according to claim 16, wherein the blows are applied to the projection (21), in particular the hardened insert (23).

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