AU2015222168B2

AU2015222168B2 - Traction member

Info

Publication number: AU2015222168B2
Application number: AU2015222168A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Kurt Switzeny
Original assignee: CONTAXX GmbH
Current assignee: CONTAXX GmbH
Priority date: 2014-02-27
Filing date: 2015-02-26
Publication date: 2018-11-15
Anticipated expiration: 2035-02-26
Also published as: AU2015222168A1; AT515514A2; EP3111107B1; EP3111107A1; CN106062417B; CN106062417A; WO2015128436A1

Abstract

Traction member, in particular traction band, traction belt or traction cable, which is elastically deformable transversely to the direction of its longitudinal extent (1) and is optionally deflectable about a deflection roller (2), wherein the following components are provided: a first traction element arrangement (3) comprising two or more first end portions (13) of one or more elongate first traction elements (4), a second traction element arrangement (8) comprising two or more second end portions (14) of one or more elongate second traction elements (9), wherein the first traction element arrangement (3) and the second traction element arrangement (8) are connected together so as to run in parallel alongside one another laterally, that is to say transversely to the direction of longitudinal extent (1), and wherein the first abutment region(s) (7) of the first traction element arrangement (3) is/are arranged in a manner offset in the direction of longitudinal extent (1) with respect to the second abutment region(s) (12) of the second traction element arrangement (8).

Description

TRACTION MEMBER

The invention pertains to a traction member, particularly a traction band, a traction belt or a 5 traction cable, which can be elastically deformed transverse to its longitudinal direction and optionally deflected about a deflection roller, wherein the traction member comprises a first traction element arrangement and at least one additional traction 10 element arrangement, wherein the traction element arrangements are respectively connected to one another laterally or transverse to the longitudinal direction, and wherein the traction element arrangements respectively comprise end sections that are flushly 15 strung together. The invention particularly pertains to a traction member that is composed of multiple traction elements and has a high tensile strength. The traction member particularly is suitable and/or designed for being used as a traction band, traction belt or 20 traction cable for high loads and high forces. High forces occur, for example, during the transport of loads on belt conveyors. The transmission of high torques and high forces is furthermore required for transmitting forces, for example, in a power plant. The 25 inventive traction member is also suitable, in particular, for conveyor belts and as a replacement for circulating or stationary cables in transport systems or assemblies, in which high forces occur.

Devices suitable for use as a traction band, traction belt or traction cable are known from the prior art.

For example, it is known to use steel cables that are composed of several strands and optionally spliced together in order to form an endless belt such that the 35 two ends of the steel cable are brought together and connected to one another. Steel cables have the disadvantage that they tend to corrode. In addition,

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 steel cables are thickened in the splicing region such that an uneven traction member is formed. Steel cables furthermore have a round cross section. This is disadvantageous because the cross section has to be 5 enlarged in all directions in order to increase the maximum transmittable tractive power. This restricts the maximum transmittable tractive power of flexible steel cables because a deflection about a deflection roller becomes technically very demanding starting at a 10 certain thickness of the steel cable. It is furthermore known to use belts of fiber-reinforced mats. These mats are used, for example, for transport conveyors. They consist of band-shaped mats with a finite length, the ends of which are connected to one another in order to 15 form an endless belt. This connection is typically produced by means of surface bonding. The disadvantage of this construction can be seen in that the bonded area represents a weak point. The belt is also thickened in the bonded area such that the traction

0 member has components these components are of endless products, reinforced plastic tensile strength. This is used for producing an efficient restricted in

Conveyor belts therefore arbitrary widths. The restricts the maximum such an extruded member.

an uneven shape. It is of fiberglass-reinforced extruded,

It is has a is the heavily extrusion terms of also known to use plastic, wherein for example, in the form well known that fiberglasshigh tenacity and a high reason why this material stressed parts. However, of fiberglass profiles is their cross-sectional size, cannot be manufactured with size of the extrusion die also transmittable tractive power of

The invention is aims to develop a traction member, particularly a traction band, a traction belt or a traction cable for high-stress applications, which preferably

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

- has a high tensile strength,

- nevertheless can be elastically deformed transverse to its longitudinal direction such that the traction member can, for example, be deflected about a deflection roller or driven by a driving roller with sufficient wrap angle,

- has a low corrosion a tendency and has a cost-sectional shape or profile shape that can be designed arbitrarily in order to form, for example, belts, V-belts, toothed belts, cables, bands or similar members.

Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an 20 admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each of the appended claims.

Throughout this specification the word comprise, or variations such as comprises or comprising, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element,

integer	or	step, or	group of	elements,	integers or
30 steps,	but	not the	exclusion	of any other element,
integer	or	step, or	group of	elements,	integers or
steps .

According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a traction member, which is elastically deformable transverse to its longitudinal direction and

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 thereby optionally deflectable about a deflection roller, wherein the following components are provided:

- a first traction element arrangement comprising two or more first end sections of one or more elongate first traction elements, wherein the first end sections essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, and wherein a first joint region is respectively provided between two facing first end sections,

- a second traction element arrangement comprising two or more second end sections of one or more elongate second traction elements, wherein the second end sections essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, and wherein a second joint region is respectively 25 provided between two facing second end sections,

- wherein the first traction element arrangement and the second traction element arrangement adjacently extend parallel and are connected to one another laterally, i.e.

transverse to the longitudinal direction,

- and wherein that the first joint region or the first joint regions of the first traction element arrangement are offset relative to the second joint region or the second joint regions of the second traction element

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 arrangement in the longitudinal direction such that the joint region or the joint regions of one traction element arrangement are respectively overlapped by a traction element of the other traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces, wherein

- two or more traction element arrangements are adjacently strung together laterally along a 15 normal to the longitudinal direction and connected to one another and thereby jointly form a band-shaped body, the at least two interconnected traction element arrangements have a flat, band-shaped profile,

- two or more traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are provided and respectively have two narrow sides and two flat sides,

- and two traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are arranged laterally adjacent, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction, such that two flat sides respectively face one another and are connected to one another.

The invention may concern, for example, a traction member, particularly a traction band, a traction belt or a traction cable, which is elastically deformable

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 transverse to its longitudinal direction and optionally deflectable about a following element components deflection roller, wherein the first traction are provided: comprising a the two facing first traction ends elongate of which along the arrangement element, essentially are flushly strung together longitudinal direction, wherein a first joint region is provided between the ends of the first traction element arrangement, a second traction element arrangement comprising a second elongate traction element, the two facing ends of which essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, wherein a second joint region is provided between the ends of the second traction element arrangement, with the first 15 traction element arrangement and the second traction element arrangement adjacently extend parallel and are connected to one another laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction, and/or with the first joint region of the first traction element arrangement being 20 offset relative to the second joint region of the second traction element arrangement in the longitudinal direction such that the joint region of one traction element arrangement is respectively overlapped by a traction element of the other traction element 25 arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces.

This embodiment concerns, for example, an endless belt comprising multiple traction element arrangements, wherein each traction element arrangement is provided with only one traction element, the two facing ends of 30 which are connected to one another by means an additional traction element.

If not indicated otherwise, the term laterally defines a direction extending transverse to the longitudinal 35 direction of the traction member.

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

The invention may concern, for example, a traction member, particularly a traction band, a traction belt or a traction cable, which is elastically deformable transverse to its longitudinal direction and optionally 5 deflectable about a deflection roller, wherein said traction member comprises: a first traction element arrangement with two or more elongate first traction elements that essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, wherein a first joint 10 region is respectively provided between the first traction elements, a second traction element arrangement with two or more elongate second traction elements that essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, wherein a second 15 joint region is respectively provided between the second traction elements, with the first traction element arrangement and the second traction element arrangement adjacently extend parallel and are connected to one another laterally, i.e. transverse to 20 the longitudinal direction, and/or with the first joint regions of the first traction element arrangement being offset relative to the second joint regions of the second traction element arrangement in the longitudinal direction such that the joint regions of one traction 25 element arrangement are respectively overlapped by a traction element of the other traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces.

This embodiment concerns, for example, an endless belt or an elongate traction member comprising multiple 30 traction element arrangements, wherein multiple traction elements are strung together in each traction element arrangement.

The invention may concern, for example, a traction member, particularly a traction band, a traction belt or a traction cable, which is elastically deformable transverse to its longitudinal direction and optionally

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

- 8 deflectable about a deflection roller, wherein the following components are provided: a first traction element arrangement comprising two or more first end sections of one or more elongate first traction elements, wherein the first end sections essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, and wherein a first joint region is respectively provided between two first end sections, a second traction element arrangement comprising two or more second end sections of one or more elongate second traction elements, wherein the second end sections essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, and wherein a second joint region is respectively provided between two second end sections, with the first traction element arrangement and the second traction element arrangement adjacently extend parallel and are connected to one another laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction, and/or with the first joint regions of the first traction element arrangement being offset relative to the second joint regions of the second traction element arrangement in the longitudinal direction such that the joint regions of one traction element arrangement are respectively overlapped by a traction element of the other traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces. This embodiment concerns, for example, an endless belt or an elongate traction member comprising multiple traction element arrangements, wherein multiple end sections of one or more traction elements are provided in each traction element arrangement.

The invention optionally concerns a traction member, in which one or more additional traction element arrangements are provided and respectively comprise the following components: two or more additional end sections of one or more additional elongate traction

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 elements, wherein the additional end sections essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction and an additional joint region is respectively provided between two additional end sections, with the additional joint regions of the additional traction element arrangements being offset relative to the joint regions of the first and the second traction element arrangement in the longitudinal direction such that the joint regions of the additional traction element arrangements are respectively overlapped by a traction element of the first traction element arrangement or the second traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces. It is alternatively proposed that each joint region of each traction element arrangement is offset relative to all other joint regions of the other traction element arrangements in the longitudinal direction such that each joint region is overlapped by a traction element of any other traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces. It is optionally proposed that the traction element arrangements are adjacently arranged in a band-shaped or belt-shaped fashion, that each traction element arrangement is connected to the adjacent traction element arrangement (s) laterally,

i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction, that the lateral connection between the traction element arrangements is an integral connection such as, for example, an adhesive joint or a welded joint and/or a form-fitting connection such as, for example, a lateral gearing, that a connecting member is provided for connecting two traction element arrangements and realized in the form of an adhesive layer arranged between the traction element arrangements, a doublesided adhesive tape arranged between the traction element arrangements, a welding arranged between the traction element arrangements, a connecting member arranged between the traction element arrangements

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 and/or a connecting member that extends parallel to the traction element arrangements and spans the traction element arrangements, that the joint region is arranged between the facing end faces of two traction elements 5 of a traction element arrangement, which essentially are flushly strung together, that a traction element arrangement, preferably each traction element arrangement, essentially is laterally connected to the additional traction element arrangement (s) over the 10 entire length of its traction elements, namely in an optionally continuous or sectional fashion, and/or that the traction elements feature a supporting crosssectional area that essentially is constant over the longitudinal extent of the traction element. Protruding 15 sections such as gearings, which do not continuously extend along the longitudinal direction, are by definition not part of the supporting cross section. In traction element arrangements that essentially are connected over the entire length of their traction 20 elements, the connection, for example an adhesive joint, does not have to be produced continuously, but rather may also be realized in a sectional, patterned or interrupted fashion. However, the traction element arrangements are also connected to one another over the 25 entire length of the traction elements if sectional, patterned or interrupted connections are produced. It is optionally proposed that the greatest thickness of the traction element and/or the greatest thickness of the supporting cross-sectional area is smaller than 30 one-hundredth of the length of the traction element. It is optionally proposed that the traction elements of a traction element arrangement respectively feature at least one connecting face, which extends on the outer sides of the traction elements along the longitudinal 35 direction and by means of which the traction element arrangement is connected or can be connected to an additional traction element arrangement, that the

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 lateral face essentially is realized planar and/or plane, that the plane connecting face of a traction element arrangement is directly bonded or welded to the plane connecting face of an additional traction element 5 arrangement and/or that the plane connecting face of a traction element arrangement is bonded or welded to the plane connecting face of an additional traction element arrangement by means of a connecting member. A doublesided adhesive tape is optionally provided between the 10 connecting faces of two interconnected traction elements. This adhesive tape extends, for example, along the entire connecting face and along the longitudinal direction in order to produce the connection between two traction elements. For example, 15 the width of the adhesive tape essentially corresponds to the width of the connecting face in order to provide the largest adhesive surface possible. The thickness of the adhesive tape, particularly the thickness of the carrier film of the adhesive tape, may amount to less 20 than 1 mm or several millimeters. However, a connecting member in the form of an adhesive without carrier film, which is applied in liquid or viscous form, is optionally provided instead of the adhesive tape for connecting two connecting faces of two traction 25 elements. On traction elements with a flat, band-shaped profile, for example, the connection with additional traction elements may be exclusively produced on their flat sides, but not on their narrow sides. In this case, the traction elements remain unconnected on their 30 narrow sides. It is optionally proposed that the traction elements are made of a composite material, wherein the composite material preferably consists of fiber-reinforced plastic, particularly extruded or pultruded fiber-reinforced plastic. It is optionally 35 proposed that a traction element of the first traction element arrangement is laterally connected to two traction elements of an adjacent second traction

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 element arrangement such second traction element the traction element of arrangement and thereby that the traction member that the joint region of the is overlapped by traction element arrangement the first bridged in is realized terms of forces, in the form of a

V-belt, in which the wedge-shaped projections of the Vbelt extending formed by member is which the extending formed by that two connected along the longitudinal direction are traction elements, and/or that the traction realized in the form of a toothed belt, in tooth-shaped projections of the toothed belt transverse to the traction or more to one elements .

traction longitudinal direction are It is optionally proposed element arrangements are another by means of an additional It is optionally proposed traction element arrangements, which have, in particular, a rectangular, triangular or parallelogram-shaped arranged laterally adjacent along a normal or traction element arrangement.

that multiple respectively trapezoidal, profile, are to the longitudinal direction and preferably connected to one another and thereby jointly form a band-shaped that an additional traction element arrangement band-shaped profile is provided and has a along the normal to the longitudinal arrangements with a additional traction body, with a flat, greater width direction than the traction element rectangular profile, and that the element arrangement with a flat, over multiple traction element arrangements rectangular profile parallel to the normal to the longitudinal direction and is connected to multiple traction extends with a profile .

traction together direction band-shaped profile element element arrangements with a rectangular It is optionally proposed that two or more element arrangements are adjacently laterally along a normal to the and connected to one another strung longitudinal and thereby the at least jointly form a band-shaped body, and that two interconnected traction element arrangements have a

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 flat, band-shaped profile. It is optionally proposed that a connecting face is provided between two first traction element arrangements, and that a second traction element arrangement is provided and connected to the two first traction element arrangements in such a way that the connecting face is overlapped laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction, and thereby bridged in terms of forces. It is optionally proposed that the second traction element arrangement 10 extends along the connecting face of the two first traction element arrangements and is connected to both first traction element arrangements such that the connecting face is covered by the second traction element. It is optionally proposed that traction 15 elements and/or traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are provided and respectively feature two narrow sides and two flat sides, that two first traction element arrangements with a flat, bandshaped profile are arranged laterally adjacent such 20 that two facing narrow sides lie adjacent to one another or are connected to one another, that at least one second traction element arrangement with a flat, band-shaped profile is provided and its flat side is respectively connected to a flat side of the two first 25 traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile such that the region of the facing narrow sides of the first traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile is overlapped, terms of forces, covered longitudinal direction. It is at laterally bridged in and/or covered along the is optionally proposed that least partially direction the transverse arranged of the least partially normal to deviates from a a joint region obliquely, wherein joint region at direction extending direction. It is optionally proposed the longitudinal that the traction elements are respectively made of a composite material, composite fiber mats and/or a fiber-reinforced

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 material, particularly fiber-reinforced plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic, fiber-reinforced resins, fiber-reinforced polymers, fiber-reinforced duroplast, fiber-reinforced thermoplastics and/or fiber-reinforced 5 elastomers, wherein the fibers are, for example, inorganic reinforcement fibers, metallic reinforcement fibers, organic reinforcement fibers, mineral fibers and/or natural fibers.

The inventive traction member has a tensile strength, for example, between 700 N/mm² and 1000 N/mm². In an exemplary application, the traction member has a cross sectional area of 3000 mm² and therefore a maximum tractive power of about 2100 kN to 3300 kN. The values of the tensile strength and the maximum tractive power may vary depending on the material and cross section used.

The inventive traction member comprises at least two traction element arrangements that are connected to one another laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction .

Two traction element arrangements are optionally connecting comprises connected to member. Each at least two one another by traction element traction element means of a arrangement ends or two traction element end sections that are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction. In shaped member, arrangement may strung together a bandfor example, each traction comprise two traction elements element that are along the longitudinal direction. The two facing ends of two traction elements of a traction element arrangement essentially are flushly strung together such that a joint region is formed between these two ends. No traction element is arranged in the 35 joint region, i.e. between the two ends of the two traction elements. The additional traction element arrangement also comprises two traction elements with

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 an intermediately arranged joint region. According to the invention, the joint region of one traction element arrangement is offset relative to the joint region of the second traction element arrangement in the 5 longitudinal direction such that the respective joint regions are overlapped by a traction element of the other traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces.

If the traction member is realized in the form of an endless belt, the two end sections of a traction element arrangement, which are flushly strung together, may also be two ends of a single traction element. However, a traction member realized in the form of a traction belt optionally also comprises multiple traction elements in each traction element arrangement.

In the context of the invention, the terms overlapped and bridged in terms of forces refer to the following 20 arrangement: two end sections of one or more traction elements essentially are flushly strung together, wherein a joint region is provided between the two end sections. Viewed independently, the two end sections therefore only are weakly connected to one another or 25 not at all. A weak connection refers to a bond, the strength of which lies below the tensile strength of the individual traction elements or the tensile strength of which is negligibly low in comparison with the tensile strength of the traction element. An 30 additional traction element, which forms part of the additional, laterally adjacent traction element arrangement, is provided in order to connect the two end sections of the traction element(s) to one another in a rigid and, in particular, tension-proof fashion.

This traction element overlaps the joint region and is laterally connected to both end regions. The force, particularly the tensile force, is therefore

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 transmitted from one end section to the other end section via the parallel traction element overlapping the joint region. The forces are transmitted via the lateral connection between the traction elements in 5 this case. The joint region is thereby overlapped by a traction element of the other traction element arrangement and bridged in terms of forces.

to each an advantageous embodiment individual joint region element of the of is overlapped an additional

According invention, by at least one traction traction element arrangement, preferred that each joint region other traction elements of the particularly overlapped by all additional

It is is traction

According regions element arrangements located in this region, to this preferred embodiment, two joint therefore never lie adjacent to one another transverse to the longitudinal direction. Any cross section of the traction member therefore is weakened by no more than one joint region of an individual traction element arrangement. An optimal tensile traction member can be achieved strength of the entire with this arrangement, makes it possible to realize because element

This configuration particularly the traction member with an arbitrary length any number of traction elements of a traction arrangement can be strung together in the longitudinal direction. According to the invention, the joint regions between the traction elements of a traction element arrangement are overlapped by traction elements of additional traction element arrangements and bridged in terms of forces. Due to this configuration, the traction member may furthermore have an arbitrary cross-sectional shape because the traction elements can be laterally connected to one another in 35 any form and sequence. The inventive configuration also makes it possible to realize complex shapes and larger

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

- 17 cross-sectional dimensions, which cannot be manufactured, for example, by means of an extruder.

The traction elements preferably have lateral faces that simplify the connection with the additional traction elements. These faces may be realized, in particular, straight or planar in order to be connected to other straight or planar faces. The faces optionally feature a gearing such that the contact surface between two traction elements is enlarged or a positive fit is realized.

The traction element arrangements comprise one or more traction element (s), the end sections of which essentially are flushly strung together. This optionally means that the end sections are arranged such that they face one another. In linearly extending traction elements, this means that these traction elements are linearly strung together along the longitudinal direction. In the region of deflections by means of deflection rollers, for example, being strung together in a bent or curved fashion can also be considered as essentially being flushly strung together. All traction elements of a traction element arrangement optionally have essentially the same profile cross section or at least the same supporting cross section. Projections extending transverse to the longitudinal direction and transverse to the load direction are by definition not part of the supporting cross section. The supporting cross section particularly is the cross section of a profile that extends through the entire traction element in essentially unchanged form. However, the traction element of a traction element arrangement may optionally also have different profile cross sections or profile cross sections that vary along the longitudinal direction. Different traction element

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 arrangements may optionally have respectively different cross-sectional profiles. For example, the traction elements of a first traction element arrangement may have a first profile cross section and the traction 5 elements of a second traction element arrangement may have a second profile cross section that differs from the first profile cross section. For example, multiple adjacently arranged traction element arrangements may have an essentially rectangular to square cross section 10 whereas an additional traction element arrangement has a flat, band-shaped profile cross section that is connected to multiple traction element arrangements and overlaps multiple traction element arrangements.

The traction member may optionally be realized in the form of a V-belt. The V-belt features one or more projections that follow the longitudinal direction and preferably comprise wedge surfaces. These wedge-shaped projections make it possible to increase the friction, 20 for example, between a driving pulley and the traction member such that higher forces and/or torques can be transmitted. The wedge-shaped projections therefore improve a frictional connection with a driving pulley. The traction member may optionally be realized in the 25 form of a toothed belt with gear-like projections that essentially extend transverse to the longitudinal direction and are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction. These toothed belts allow a form-fitting transmission of the torque of a gearwheel 30 to the traction member.

The traction element arrangements or the traction elements optionally comprise laterally protruding projections that serve for producing a geared 35 connection with the adjacent traction element arrangements. All projections, particularly the wedgeshaped projections, the tooth-shaped projections and

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 the projections for producing a connection with additional traction element arrangements preferably are formed by the traction elements themselves and/or form part of one or more traction elements. This allows the 5 transmission of high forces. In all embodiments, the joint regions are optionally distributed over the entire longitudinal extent of the traction member, preferably distributed uniformly, such that the traction member essentially has identical or constant 10 flexural properties over its entire longitudinal extent and particularly does not feature a splicing region with increased flexural rigidity. This preferably applies to all joint regions of all traction element arrangements .

It is optionally proposed that multiple traction element arrangements, particularly at least two traction element arrangements, with a flat, band-shaped profile are provided and respectively feature two 20 narrow sides and two flat sides and/or that two traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are arranged laterally adjacent, i.e.

transverse to the longitudinal direction, such that two flat sides respectively face one another and are 25 connected to one another. It is optionally proposed that the cross section of the traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile respectively is essentially realized rectangular and elongate. It is optionally proposed that the flat sides 30 of the traction element arrangements are essentially arranged on top of one another laterally congruent. It is optionally proposed that the width of the flat sides measured normal to the longitudinal direction corresponds to the width of the entire traction member.

It is optionally proposed that the traction member is realized in the form of a band-shaped traction belt, the flat side of which is deflectable or is deflected about a deflection roller transverse to its

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 longitudinal direction.

with belt widths of

In wider one meter traction element arrangements with profile another another belts, for or more, can be arranged laterally along their narrow sides and example, multiple flat, band-shaped adjacent to one connected to one on their flat sides by means of additional traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile .

In all embodiments, elastic intermediate members may be optionally provided between a few traction elements.

These intermediate members may consist, for example, of elastic bodies such as rubber bodies or silicone bodies that are connected to the traction elements in a formfitting, non-positive or frictionally engaged fashion.

Tension-proof connecting members preferably are additionally members produce traction with the provided in such elastic a lesser tensile strength tension-proof connection intermediate in order to between the elements. For example, tension-proof or shearresistant adhesive adhesive elements adhesive connecting members are adhesive surfaces, layers, bodies, double-sided adhesive tapes or by means of which the traction are connected to one tape comprises, for another .

example,

A double-sided a strip-shaped carrier film that is provided with an adhesive layer on both flat sides. Tension-proof connecting members may furthermore consist of welding seams, by means of which the traction elements are welded to one another. The connecting members may optionally also be realized in the form of traction elements. The connecting members optionally feature a lateral gearing that engages into a lateral gearing of the traction elements in order to 35 produce a form-fitting connection.

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

Concrete exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in greater detail below with reference to the figures .

Figure 1 shows a schematic oblique view of an inventive traction member that is realized in the form of an endless belt.

Figure 2 shows a schematic illustration of a section of 10 an inventive traction member.

Figure 3 shows a schematic illustration of a section of an inventive traction member.

Figure 4 shows a section of another embodiment of an inventive traction member.

Figure 5 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of an inventive traction member.

Figure 6 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive traction member.

	Figure	7	shows	a section	of a traction	member	that	is
25	realized	in the	form of a	V-belt.
	Figure	8	shows	a section	of a traction	member	that	is
	realized	in the	form of a	toothed belt.
30	Figure	9	shows	another embodiment of a	traction	member

that is realized in the form of a V-belt.

Figures 10a and 10b show two embodiments of inventive traction members with essentially round cross section.

Figures 11a to d show other potential embodiments of the invention.

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

Figures 12a and 12b show other potential embodiments of the invention.

Figures 13 and 14 show other embodiments of the invention .

Figure 1 shows an inventive traction member that is realized in the form of an endless belt. It has a 10 certain width such that the belt can be used, for example, as a conveyor belt. Another advantage of the design in the form of a wide traction member can be seen in that the overall cross-sectional area and therefore the tensile strength are increased. In the 15 embodiment according to Figure 1, however, this enlargement is only realized in one direction such the height of the traction member remains low and the traction member can be deflected about a deflection roller. The traction member comprises a first traction element arrangement 3 that consists of a single first traction comprises element, traction element 4. The a first end 5 as well element.

between these two first traction element 4 of the elongate traction as a second end 6 of the

A first joint region 7 is elongate arranged ends of the traction element 4. The ends 5, 6 correspond to the facing end faces of the first end sections 13. In addition, a second traction element arrangement 8 comprising a single second traction element 9 is provided. The ends 10, 11 of the 30 second traction element 9 or the second end sections 14 are respectively brought together in such a way that a second joint region 12 is formed between these ends. Additional traction element arrangements 15 comprising additional traction elements 17 are furthermore 35 provided, wherein their end sections 16 are brought together in such a way that additional joint regions 18 are formed between the respective ends or end sections.

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

The end sections of the traction element arrangement essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction 1. In the region of the linear extent, this means that the end sections essentially 5 are also linearly strung together. In the region of the deflection roller 2, the end sections are likewise flushly strung together, wherein the longitudinal direction essentially corresponds to the deflection curvature of the traction member.

Figure 2 shows a section of an inventive traction member in the form of a schematic oblique view. This figure shows a section of a potential traction member that comprises four traction element arrangements, 15 particularly a first traction element arrangement 3 with a first traction element 4, a second traction element arrangement 8 with a second traction element 9, as well as additional traction element arrangements 15 with additional traction elements 17. The traction elements are connected to one another laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction 1. In the embodiment shown, the traction elements or the traction element arrangements are arranged laterally adjacent in a band-shaped fashion. The traction element arrangements and their traction elements respectively comprise at least one connecting face 20. In the present embodiment, this connecting face is realized such that two adjacent traction elements can accordingly be connected to one another in a planar fashion. The connecting faces are in all embodiments optionally realized such that a planar connection with the adjacent traction element can be produced. For example, the traction elements may in the region of the connecting faces 20 essentially be realized such that they complement one another and accordingly feature contact surfaces similar to a plug-type connection or a surface bond. Connecting members 19 such as adhesive

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 surfaces or adhesive tapes are preferably provided for connecting two traction element arrangements.

Figure 3 shows another embodiment of an inventive traction member with a first traction element arrangement 3, a second traction element arrangement 8, as well as two additional traction element arrangements 15. The first traction element arrangement 3 comprises two first traction elements 4. These first traction 10 elements 4 respectively feature a first end section 13.

The facing first end sections 13 essentially are flushly strung together. A first joint region 7 is formed between the two end sections. No traction element is provided in the joint region 7. A gap 15 particularly may be formed between the two first end sections 13. An adhesive surface is optionally provided in the joint region. However, the joint region is not designed for transmitting the tractive power in its entirety. In fact, the joint region is overlapped by a 20 traction element of the second traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces. The first joint region 7 is overlapped by the second traction element of the second traction element arrangement 8, which is identified by the reference 25 symbol 9. The second traction element 9 is connected to both first traction elements 4 laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction 1. In this way, the joint region 7 is bridged in terms of forces.

The second traction element arrangement also comprises 30 a second joint region 12. This second joint region 12 is overlapped by a first traction element 4 and thereby bridged in terms of forces. Furthermore, the additional traction element arrangements 15 also comprise additional joint regions 18. These joint regions are 35 also respectively overlapped by at least one other traction element and thereby bridged in terms of forces. In this embodiment, all joint regions

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 particularly are offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 1 such that each joint region is overlapped by a traction element of any other traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of 5 forces.

The embodiment according to Figure 3 comprises a flat, band-shaped traction element of a traction element arrangement. The joint region 18 of this flat, band10 shaped traction element arrangement is also arranged in such a way that it is bridged by all additional traction elements of the additional traction element arrangements .

Figure 4 shows a detailed illustration of a section of a traction member according to Figure 3. The traction member comprises a first traction element 4, a second traction element 9 and additional traction elements 17.

Four of the traction elements have a rectangular to 20 square cross section. Furthermore, a traction element with a band-shaped cross section and therefore a flat design is provided. This traction element is connected to four traction elements. The first traction element arrangement 3 is connected to the band-shaped traction 25 element arrangement and the second traction element arrangement. The second traction element arrangement 8 is connected to the first traction element arrangement 3, the band-shaped traction element arrangement and an additional traction element arrangement 15. The 30 traction elements feature connecting faces 20 in this case. The traction elements are connected to one another laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction, by means of these connecting faces.

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of an inventive traction member in the form of a sectional view. This traction member comprises a first traction element

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 arrangement 3 with a first traction element 4, a second traction element arrangement 8 with a second traction element 19, as well as two additional traction element arrangements 15 that respectively feature one or more 5 additional traction elements 17. Furthermore, a bandshaped traction element arrangement 15 is provided and connected to all four other traction element arrangements. The traction element arrangements, which do not have a band-shaped cross section, are connected 10 to one another laterally. In addition, intermediate members 24 are provided between a few traction element arrangements. For example, the intermediate members 24 may have different material properties than the traction elements. The intermediate members 24 may 15 respectively be elastic or deformable such that a certain flexibility of the band is achieved. The intermediate members 24 may also have a greater rigidity than the traction elements such that the traction member is stiffened by the connecting members. 20 The intermediate members 24 preferably also have a tensile strength that approximately corresponds to the tensile strength of the traction elements. However, the intermediate members 24 may optionally also have a lower tensile strength such that the tractive power is 25 primarily transmitted by the traction elements rather than by the intermediate members 24.

Figure 6 shows another embodiment of an inventive traction member in the form of a sectional view. The 30 first traction element arrangement 3 or its first traction element 4 is respectively realized in the form of a band, wherein the edges of the band are bent in a U-shaped fashion such that the additional traction element arrangements 15 or their traction elements 17 35 are laterally encompassed. The second traction element arrangement 8 or its second traction elements are respectively also realized in the form of a band,

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 wherein the lateral ends are bent in such a way that the additional traction elements 17 are encompassed. The bent edges of the band-shaped first traction element arrangement 3 and second traction element arrangement 8 are brought together and optionally connected to one another at the connecting faces 20. In this way, the additional traction element arrangements 15 are enclosed in a space formed between the first traction element arrangement 3 and the second traction 10 element arrangement 8. The additional traction element arrangements 15 may be connected to one another laterally. According to the present embodiment, however, the additional traction element arrangements 15 are respectively not connected to one another, but 15 rather only to the first traction element arrangement 3 and the second traction element arrangement 8.

Figure 7 shows another embodiment of an inventive traction member, wherein only a section of the traction 20 member is schematically illustrated in this figure. The traction member is realized in the form of a V-belt. It comprises a first traction element 4, a second traction element 9, as well as additional traction elements 17.

The traction member according to Figure 7 features 25 wedge-shaped projections 21. These wedge-shaped projections serve, for example, for engaging into a driving pulley, wherein the surface area and therefore the transmittable frictional force are increased by these wedge-shaped projections. The wedge-shaped 30 projections 21 are formed by the traction elements 4,

8, 17. Consequently, a high frictional force can be transmitted to the traction member. The wedge-shaped projections 21 are continuously profiled in the embodiment shown. However, the wedge-shaped projections 35 may also be spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction such that a traction element arrangement comprises multiple wedge-shaped projections

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

21, wherein a clearance may be provided between the individual wedge-shaped projections 21 of a single traction element arrangement. Due to this discontinuous design of the wedge-shaped projections, the geometrical 5 moment of inertia of the traction member is reduced such that the bendability, for example, about a deflection roller is improved.

Figure 8 shows another embodiment of an inventive traction member, wherein only a section of the traction member is illustrated in this figure in the form of a schematic obligue view. The traction member comprises a first traction element arrangement 3 with a first traction element elements element 4, as well as additional arrangements 15 with additional

17. Furthermore, a second traction traction traction element arrangement 8 is provided for connecting the additional traction element arrangements 15 to the first traction element arrangement 3. The first traction element 20 arrangement 3 or its traction element or traction elements 4 respectively feature tooth-shaped proj ections essentially

22. The tooth-shaped projections 22 extend transverse to the longitudinal direction 1 and are spaced apart the longitudinal direction. The therefore realized in the form of from one another traction member a toothed belt.

in is

The tooth-shaped projections 22 may engage, for example, into gearwheel-like driving pulleys in order to drive the traction member a form-fitting fashion. The second 30 traction element arrangements 15 may be connected to one another laterally. The additional traction element arrangements are furthermore connected to the second traction element arrangement 8. The second traction element arrangement 8 is realized in a band-shaped 35 fashion and connected to multiple adjacently arranged additional traction element arrangements 15. The second traction element arrangement 8, which is realized in a

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 band-shaped fashion, is connected to the first traction element arrangement 3 comprising or carrying the toothshaped projections 22 in a planar fashion, in particular extensively,.

Figure 9 shows another embodiment of an inventive traction member, wherein only the section of the traction member is illustrated in this figure in the form of a schematic oblique view. The traction member 10 in Figure 9 comprises multiple first traction element arrangements 3, a second traction element arrangement 4, as well as multiple additional traction element arrangements 15. The traction elements are realized in such a way that a V-belt is formed. This belt comprises 15 wedge-shaped projections 21 that are formed, in particular, by the first traction element arrangements 3 and extend in the longitudinal direction. The wedgeshaped projections 21 or the first traction elements 4 of the first traction element arrangement 3 are 20 respectively spaced apart from one another and, in particular, not directly connected to one another. The first traction elements 4 of the first traction element arrangements 3 are respectively connected to one another by means of the second traction element 25 arrangement 8 or a second traction element 9. In this way, each first traction element is connected to the second traction element arrangement 8. The second traction element arrangement 8 essentially is realized in a band-shaped fashion and has such a width that a V30 belt is formed. Additional traction element arrangements 15 are arranged on the other side of the second traction element arrangement 8, i.e. on the side on which no first traction elements are arranged, and connected to the second traction element arrangement 8.

The additional traction element arrangements or their traction elements 17 respectively have an essentially rectangular to square cross section. The additional

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 traction elements are at least connected to the second traction element arrangement 8. The additional traction elements are optionally also connected to one another laterally.

Figure 10a shows another embodiment of an inventive traction member, in which the traction elements 4 or the traction element arrangement 3 are respectively strung together in a sector-shaped fashion such that a 10 round member with a layered structure is formed.

Figure 10b shows another embodiment of a traction member that has an altogether round cross section. In this case, the traction elements or the traction element arrangements are strung together in a sectorshaped fashion. The individual traction elements optionally have z-shaped profiles, the projections of which engage into one another. In the embodiment according to Figure 10b, the traction element arrangements 3 extend obliguely to the longitudinal direction of the traction member. The strength of the traction member can be additionally improved due to this obligue, spiral-shaped arrangement. Different layers are optionally twisted in different directions 25 such that the traction element arrangements of different layers are arranged crosswise.

The traction elements may also be configured in such crosswise arrangement in all embodiments. A round, 30 sector-shaped structure is not absolutely imperative in this case. The scope of the invention also includes obliguely extending layers that are arranged parallel to one another.

According to another embodiment that is not illustrated in the figures, the inventive traction member is realized by cross-sectionally stringing together the

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 individual traction element arrangements in a grid-like or honeycomb-like fashion. For example, the individual traction element arrangements may have a hexagonal cross section or a hexagonal profile such that multiple 5 traction element arrangements can be connected to one another in a honeycomb-like fashion, wherein a first traction element arrangement can be connected to six additional traction element arrangements on its six connecting faces in these embodiments. The individual 10 traction element arrangements may furthermore also have a rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, parallelogramshaped or square cross section, wherein an additional traction element arrangement can be provided on one, two, three or all of the connecting faces. According to 15 a preferred embodiment, multiple traction element arrangements are laterally strung together along a normal to the longitudinal direction and preferably connected to one another. In this way, a band-shaped member is formed. The traction element arrangements 20 feature connecting faces such that surface contact with the adjacent traction element arrangements can be achieved. The connecting faces are preferably realized planar. These traction element arrangements optionally have a rectangular profile in the normal plane of the 25 longitudinal direction. This particularly means that the ratio of the longer side to the shorter side is smaller than four. This configuration is illustrated, for example, in Figure 1, Figure 2 and Figure 7. A traction element arrangement with a flat, band-shaped 30 profile may be additionally provided in the normal plane of the longitudinal direction. This particularly means that the ratio of the longer side to the shorter side is greater than four and/or that the width of the traction element arrangement with a flat, band-shaped 35 profile is greater than the width of the traction element arrangements with a rectangular profile. The traction element arrangement with a flat, band-shaped

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 profile preferably has a width that essentially corresponds to the width of the band-shaped member formed by the traction element arrangements with a rectangular profile. For example, the traction elements 5 may furthermore also be realized and strung together segmentally, e.g., as in the cable-like designs of the traction members in Figure 10.

Figures 11a, lib, 11c and lid show other embodiments of the inventive traction member. The traction members illustrated in Figures lla-d are particularly realized in the form of toothed belts or V-belts. Multiple traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile, namely at least two such traction element arrangements, are provided in these embodiments. The traction members respectively comprise a first traction element arrangement 3. This first traction element arrangement 3 has a flat, band-shaped profile. Its cross section essentially is rectangular and elongate.

The first traction element arrangement 3 comprises at least one first traction element 4. A first joint region 7 of particularly between the traction elements .

the first traction element arrangement 3 is provided. This joint region is located of the first two ends and element or

The first in the j oint this embodiment.

therefore is direction 1 by first elongate region 7 is

The obliquely aligned relative an angle other particularly applies if the the flat side of the elongate traction arranged arranged to the than obliquely joint region longitudinal degrees. This measured in the plane of angle traction is

member. The	greater the	deviation of	the	angle	from a
90 degree	arrangement,	the longer	the	j oint	region
along the	longitudinal	direction	1.	This	oblique
35 arrangement	makes it	possible	to	improve the

distribution of the forces to the additional traction element arrangements. At least one second traction

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 element arrangement 8 is provided in Figures lla-lld. This second traction element arrangement 8 is in accordance with the preceding description arranged parallel and adjacent to the first traction element arrangement and connected thereto transverse to the longitudinal direction 1. In the present embodiment, the second traction element arrangement 8 is also realized in the form of a traction element arrangement with a flat, band-shaped profile. The joint regions or 10 the joint region of the second traction element arrangement 8 are respectively not illustrated in Figures lla-lld. However, they may be realized similar or identical to the first joint regions. The second joint regions and the first joint regions particularly 15 are offset relative to one another in accordance with the preceding description such that the respective joint regions are bridged in terms of forces by the additional traction element. Additional traction element arrangements 15 are optionally provided. For 20 example, these traction element arrangements may also have a flat, band-shaped profile. At least one of the traction element arrangements optionally features wedge-shaped projections 21 or tooth-shaped projections 22. This type of configuration, in which multiple 25 traction element arrangements with an essentially flat, band-shaped profile are connected to one another, may be provided in all embodiments shown. The obliguely extending joints region, which improves the bridging in terms of forces, may likewise be provided in all 30 embodiments of the invention shown. For example, a traction element arrangement with an essentially rectangular cross section may also comprise an obligue joint region.

Figures 12a and 12b show two other embodiments of an inventive traction member. The traction member in

Figure 12a is realized in the form of a toothed belt.

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

The traction member in Figure 12b is realized in the form of a V-belt. The traction member in Figure 12a comprises multiple first traction element arrangements 3. The first traction element arrangements 3 have an 5 essentially flat, band-shaped profile. The first traction element arrangements 3 additionally comprise tooth-shaped projections 22 in order to form a toothed belt. The traction member in Figure 12a furthermore comprises multiple second traction element arrangements 10 8. These second traction element arrangements 8 likewise have an essentially flat, band-shaped profile.

The second traction element arrangements 8 are connected to the first traction element arrangements 3 transverse to their longitudinal direction. The flat 15 sides of the two traction element arrangements 3, 8 particularly are connected to one another such that a planar connection is produced. The respective traction element arrangements feature joint regions. The first traction element arrangements 3 feature first joint 20 regions 7. These joint regions 7 are arranged between the individual traction elements of the traction element arrangements. The first traction element arrangements 3 are arranged relative to the second traction element arrangements 8 in such a way that the 25 connecting points between the first traction element arrangements 3 are transversely bridged by second traction element arrangements 8. A second traction element arrangement 8 is thereby connected to two first traction element arrangements 3. Two first traction 30 element arrangements 3 are likewise connected to one second traction element arrangement 8. As in the preceding embodiments, the joint regions of a traction element arrangement are overlapped by the additional traction element arrangements and thereby bridged in 35 terms of forces. In the embodiment according to Figure

12a, not only the joint regions are overlapped and bridged in terms of forces, but also the lateral

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 connecting faces 20, along which the first traction element arrangements 3 are connected to one another. In addition, the connecting faces 20 between the second traction element arrangements 8 are also overlapped and 5 bridged in terms of forces. The traction member according to Figure 12a furthermore comprises additional traction element arrangements 15 that once again have an essentially flat, band-shaped profile. These traction element arrangements 15 are also 10 realized in accordance with the preceding description.

They particularly comprise joint regions 18 that are overlapped and bridged in terms of forces. The additional traction element arrangements 15 are connected to the second traction element arrangements 8 15 in this case. Each additional traction element arrangement 15 particularly is connected to two second traction element arrangements 8. In this way, the connecting faces 20 between the second traction element arrangements 8 are also transversely overlapped by the 20 additional traction element arrangements 15 and thereby bridged in terms of forces. The traction member according to Figure 12a furthermore comprises an overlay 23. This overlay 23 may be realized, for example, in the form of a rubber overlay or an elastic 25 overlay. This overlay 23 extends over the entire traction member. Such overlays are used, for example, for forming an elastic layer of a belt conveyor. The overlay 23 may also serve for protecting the traction elements such that, for example, abrasion or wear on 30 outer surfaces is reduced. The traction member according to Figure 12b essentially corresponds to the traction member according to Figure 12a, but wedgeshaped projections 21 are provided instead of toothshaped projections 22 in this case. These projections 35 21 form part of the first traction element arrangements

3. Furthermore, second traction element arrangements 8 and additional traction element arrangements 15 are

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 provided analogous to Figure 12a. An overlay is also provided and covers the entire traction member as in Figure 12a. The traction members according to Figures 12a and 12b essentially have a layered structure. The 5 layers are formed by traction element arrangements with an essentially flat, band-shaped profile, which are arranged transverse to the direction of traction. Three layers are provided the present examples, wherein one layer is formed by the first traction element 10 arrangements, one layer is formed by the second traction element arrangements and one layer is formed by the additional traction element arrangements. The respective layers are essentially realized in a flat and band-shaped fashion. The individual traction 15 element arrangements of a layer are offset relative to the traction element arrangements of the additional layer, to which they are connected, in the transverse direction. In this way, the connecting faces 20 of the traction element arrangements are likewise overlapped 20 and bridged in terms of forces. The joint regions of the embodiments in Figures 12a and 12b are realized obliquely analogous to the joint regions of the embodiments in Figures lla-lld. The traction members in Figures 12a and 12b essentially correspond to multiple 25 traction members according to Figures lla-lld, which are arranged laterally adjacent to one another.

However, the traction element arrangements are realized in a laterally overlapping fashion in order to produce a lateral connection. Multiple traction elements and/or 30 traction element arrangements optionally have a flat, band-shaped profile. Such a profile comprises two narrow sides and two flat sides. Two traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are optionally connected to one another on their flat 35 sides. Two first traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are optionally arranged laterally adjacent to one another such that the narrow

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 sides abut on one another as illustrated, for example, in Figure 12. A second traction element arrangement with a flat, band-shaped profile is optionally provided, wherein the flat side of this second traction 5 element arrangement is connected to both flat sides of the first traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile. In this way, the connecting faces between the narrow sides of the first traction element arrangements with a flat, band shaped profile are 10 overlapped and thereby laterally bridged in terms of forces and/or covered. Multiple or all connecting faces between the narrow sides of the traction element arrangements are optionally overlapped, laterally bridged in terms of forces and/or covered as 15 illustrated, for example, in Figure 12.

The scope of the invention furthermore includes embodiments, in which only part of the joint region is realized obliquely or in which the direction of the 20 joint region or the transverse direction of the joint region at least partially deviates from a normal 90 degree direction relative to the longitudinal direction. For example, the joint region may also extend in a bent or zigzag-shaped fashion.

Figures 13 and 14 show other embodiments of an inventive traction member. The components identified by reference symbols essentially correspond to the components in the other embodiments and, in particular, 30 to the components in the list of reference symbols. A traction member according to Figures 13 and 14 features multiple traction element arrangements that respectively have a flat, band-shaped profile. These traction element arrangements correspond, for example, 35 to the traction element arrangements in Figure 11. The traction element arrangements are connected to one another laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 direction 1. The traction element arrangements particularly sides. In arrangements are this are that a traction connected to embodiment, stacked on member with one another on their flat four traction element top formed. The joint regions of of one another such layered structure is the traction element arrangements are offset relative to one another in accordance with the preceding description. The joint regions are optionally realized obliquely. In the 10 present embodiments according to Figures 11, 13 and 14, the individual traction element arrangements with a flat profile preferably have a certain width that corresponds to the width of the flat sides measured normal to the longitudinal direction. This width may 15 essentially be identical in all traction elements or traction element arrangements. The traction element arrangements with a flat profile particularly are placed on top of one another in an essentially congruent fashion. In this case, the width of the 20 traction element arrangements with a flat profile essentially corresponds to the width of the traction member. Traction elements are optionally realized for forming a toothed belt or a V-belt as illustrated in Figure 11. These traction elements optionally have a 25 different width. The traction elements for forming Vbelts or toothed belts particularly do not have to have the same width as the traction element arrangements with a flat profile, which are congruently stacked on top of one another. A traction member, particularly 30 according to Figures 11, 13 and 14, optionally comprises multiple traction element arrangements that respectively have a flat, band-shaped profile and are made of a composite material, and/or fiber-reinforced material.

composite fiber mats

The traction element arrangements of fiber-reinforced may be realized in accordance plastic particularly with the preceding description. The band-shaped structure of the traction

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 element arrangements and of the entire traction member simplifies the deflection about an axis, particularly about an axis extending normal to the direction of the flat side. The deflection about an axis extending along 5 the narrow side is complicated due to the band-shaped configuration. It is therefore sensible to utilize this configuration, in particular, for belts that are deflected about deflection rollers with their flat sides. According to an exemplary embodiment, the width 10 of the flat sides may lie between 3 and 15 cm. The heights or thicknesses of the individual traction element arrangements may lie, for example, around 1 mm.

Conseguently, four traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile, which are stacked on top of 15 one another, have a height of approximately 4 mm.

However, the scope of the invention also includes embodiments, in which more or fewer than four traction element arrangements are stacked on top of one another. For example, two, four, six, eight or more traction 20 element arrangements may be stacked on top of one another, wherein the overall height of the traction member is obtained by multiplying the number of traction element arrangements with their thickness, which lies, for example, in the range between 0.5 and 2 25 mm. The width of an exemplary traction member according to Figures 13 and 14 may lie, for example, between 50 and 80 mm. The scope of the invention also includes widths up to 3 m or more. According to another embodiment that is not illustrated in the figures, the 30 joint regions and/or the ends may feature undercuts or projections such that the two ends of the traction element arrangement can be connected to one another in a frictionally engaged or form-fitting fashion. For example, the two ends can be inserted into one another 35 in one direction similar to the assembly of a puzzle, but are prevented from being pulled apart in the longitudinal direction due to the form-fitting

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 connection. One end of the traction element may furthermore be provided with a projection that longitudinally protrudes into a recess of the second end of the same joint region in order to respectively 5 center the traction element or its ends that are flushly strung together.

The traction element arrangement with a flat, bandshaped profile may be arranged parallel to the band10 shaped body formed of the traction element arrangements with a rectangular profile. The traction element arrangement with a flat, band-shaped profile may furthermore be connected to the traction element arrangements with a rectangular profile. This 15 configuration is illustrated, for example, in Figure 3,

Figure 4, Figure 5, Figure 6, Figure 8 and Figure 9.

The traction element arrangements are in all embodiments realized such that the joint regions of a 20 traction element arrangement are overlapped by at least one traction element of an additional traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces. The traction elements may be made of fiber-reinforced materials in all embodiments. Examples of such 25 materials are fiber-reinforced plastic, fiberglassreinforced plastic, fiber-reinforced resin, fiberreinforced polymer, fiber-reinforced thermosetting polymer, fiber-reinforced thermoplastic and/or fiberreinforced elastomer. The fibers consist, for example, 30 of inorganic reinforcement fibers, metallic reinforcement fibers, organic reinforcement fibers or natural fibers. Matrix systems such as, for example, a thermoplastic matrix, a thermosetting polymer matrix or an elastomer matrix can also be used. The materials 35 preferably have a certain elasticity in at least one direction such that the traction member can be deflected about a deflection pulley. The materials

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 preferably have a high tensile strength and a high resistance to shearing forces such that a traction member with significant maximum tractive power can be produced. All traction elements of all traction element 5 arrangements are optionally made of the same material.

Different traction element arrangements optionally feature different materials. The traction elements of a traction element arrangement optionally feature the same materials. The connecting members are optionally 10 made of the same material as the traction members. The connecting members are optionally made of a different material than the traction members. The joint regions of the traction element arrangements of a traction member are in all embodiments optionally spaced apart 15 along the longitudinal direction by a distance of one meter, two meters, three meters, four meters, five meters, ten meters, twenty meters, thirty meters, fifty meters or one-hundred meters; the spacing between the joint regions of the traction element arrangements of a 20 traction member in the longitudinal direction may alternatively also lie in a range between these values.

All joint regions are optionally spaced apart from one another by the same distance or the distances between different joint regions deviate from one another.

The traction member may have a width of or between 1

	cm,	5	cm,	10 cm, 15 cm, 2 0 cm,	30 cm, 50	cm 10 0	cm
	and/or	200	cm. The height of the	traction	member	may
	amount	to approximately 0.5 cm, 1	cm, 2 cm,	3 cm, 4	cm,
30	5	cm,	10	cm, 20 cm or 30	cm; the	height	may

alternatively also lie in a range between these values.

The traction elements may have a width of approximately cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm or 50 cm;

the width may alternatively also lie in a range between 35 these values. The traction elements may have a height of approximately 0.1 cm, 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, cm or 20 cm; the height alternatively lies in a

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 range between these values. The traction element with a flat, band-shaped profile may have a width that lies between approximately four times and approximately ten times, twenty times or fifty times its height.

The traction members may furthermore also have smaller cross-sectional dimensions, e.g. on the order of a few millimeters. The traction elements of these traction members may have a thickness or a height in the 10 millimeter range. The scope of the invention also includes film-like or film strip-like traction elements with a thickness of less than one millimeter. These film-like or film strip-like traction elements are optionally realized in a self-adhesive fashion or 15 provided with an adhesive layer.

For example, the following steps may be carried out in order to produce an inventive traction member: traction members can be manufactured in a first step. These 20 traction members are preferably extruded or pultruded.

According to a preferred embodiment, they respectively consist of fiber-reinforced plastic or of a composite material. The traction members are provided with different profiles or with identical profiles depending 25 on their intended use. For example, the profile may be realized in a flat, band-shaped fashion. The profile is optionally realized essentially rectangular. According to a preferred embodiment, it is also possible to manufacture profiles with wedge-shaped projections or 30 gears for producing toothed belts or V-belts. The traction elements respectively feature two end sections. In order to produce a circulating belt, the two end sections can be flushly strung together in another step such that an annular traction element 35 arrangement is formed. Multiple traction bodies optionally can be flushly strung together such that an annular traction element arrangement is formed. In

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 these embodiments, end sections of the traction elements are also flushly strung together, wherein the two facing end sections belong to two different traction elements. In another step, multiple traction 5 element arrangements of this type are laterally strung together. They are particularly strung together laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction of the traction element arrangements. The joint regions provided between two end sections are 10 offset relative to other joint regions such that the joint regions are bridged in terms of forces by the additional traction element arrangements. The individual traction element arrangements are connected to one another, for example, by means of a connecting 15 member. The connecting member consists, for example, of an adhesive layer, an adhesive body, a double-sided adhesive tape or a welding. In an adhesive joint, two traction element arrangements are directly connected to one another by means of the connecting member. The 20 traction element arrangements are optionally realized in a flat and band-shaped fashion. In this case, it is advantageous to connect the flat sides of the traction element arrangements to one another. These flat sides may optionally be offset such that the flat side of one 25 traction element arrangement is connected to two traction element arrangements lying above or below. The traction elements preferably consist of separate and independent bodies that are connected to one another.

In the case of a welding, an integral connection or a 30 virtual one-piece design can be realized. However, the starting elements for producing the traction member are preferably independent and separate bodies. The traction members preferably have a smooth outer side.

Traction members in the form of V-belts have a smooth outer side in the longitudinal direction if they are realized with a constant profile. For example, the smooth outer side, particularly the smooth outer side

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 in the longitudinal direction, improves the guietness of moving traction members that are deflected about deflection rollers. In contrast to conventional cables, the inventive traction member is preferably not 5 composed of twisted, interlaced or intertwined strands that provide a cable with its characteristic rough surface. The inventive traction members are preferably composed of parallel traction element arrangements that are connected to one another directly and preferably in 10 a planar fashion.

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

REFERENCE LIST

Longitudinal direction

Deflection roller

3 First traction element arrangement

First traction element

End of first elongate traction element

First joint region

8 Second traction element arrangement

Second traction element

End of second elongate traction element

Second joint region

13 First end section

Second end section

Additional traction element arrangement

Additional end section

Additional traction element

18 Additional joint region

Connecting member

Connecting face

Wedge-shaped projection

Tooth-shaped projection

23 Overlay

Intermediate member

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS

1. A traction member, which is elastically deformable transverse to its longitudinal direction and thereby optionally deflectable about a deflection roller, wherein the following components are provided:

- a first traction element arrangement comprising two or more first end sections of one or more elongate first traction elements, wherein the first end sections essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, and wherein a first joint region is respectively provided between two facing first end sections,

- a second traction element arrangement comprising two or more second end sections of one or more elongate second traction elements, wherein the second end sections essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, and wherein a second joint region is respectively provided between two facing second end sections,

- wherein the first traction element arrangement and the second traction element arrangement adjacently extend parallel and are connected to one another laterally, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction,

2015222168 04 Oct 2018

- and wherein that the first joint region or the first joint regions of the first traction element arrangement are offset relative to the second joint region or the second joint regions of the second traction element arrangement in the longitudinal direction

- such that the joint region or the joint regions of one traction element arrangement are respectively overlapped by a traction element of the other traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces, wherein

- two or more traction element arrangements are adjacently strung together laterally along a normal to the longitudinal direction and connected to one another and thereby jointly form a band-shaped body,

- the at least two interconnected traction element arrangements have a flat, band-shaped profile,

- two or more traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are provided and respectively have two narrow sides and two flat sides, and two traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are arranged laterally adjacent, i.e. transverse to the longitudinal direction, such that two flat sides respectively face one another and are connected to one another.

2015222168 04 Oct 2018
2. The traction member according to claim 1, wherein one or more additional traction element arrangements are provided and respectively comprise the following components:

- two or more additional end sections of one or more additional elongate traction elements, wherein the additional end sections essentially are flushly strung together along the longitudinal direction, and wherein an additional joint region is

respectively additional end provided between sections, two facing - and the additional joint region or the additional joint regions of the additional

traction element arrangements are offset relative to the joint region or the joint regions of the first and the second traction element arrangements in the longitudinal direction

- such the joint regions of the additional traction element arrangements are respectively overlapped by a traction element of the first traction element arrangement or the second traction element arrangement and thereby bridged in terms of forces.
3. The traction member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the traction elements are respectively made of a composite material, composite fiber mats and/or a fiber-reinforced material, particularly of fiber-reinforced plastic, glass fiber

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 reinforced plastic, fiber-reinforced resin, fiberreinforced polymer, fiber-reinforced duroplast, fiber-reinforced thermoplastic and/or fiberreinforced elastomer, wherein the fibers are particularly inorganic reinforcement fibers, metallic reinforcement fibers, organic reinforcement fibers, mineral fibers and/or natural fibers.
4. The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 3, wherein the lateral connection between the traction element arrangements is an integral connection such as, for example, an adhesive joint or a welded joint and/or a form-fitting connection such as, for example, a lateral gearing.
5. The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 4, wherein a connecting member is provided for connecting two traction element arrangements and realized in the form of

- an adhesive layer arranged between the traction element arrangements,

- a double-sided adhesive tape arranged between the traction element arrangements,

- a welding arranged between the traction element arrangements,

- a connecting member arranged between the traction element arrangements,

- or a connecting member that extends parallel to the traction element arrangements and spans the traction element arrangements.

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6. The traction member according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein traction elements and/or traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are provided and respectively feature two narrow sides and two flat sides, wherein two first traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile are arranged laterally adjacent such that two facing narrow sides lie adjacent to one another or are connected to one another, and at least one second traction element arrangement with a flat, band-shaped profile is provided and its flat side is respectively connected to a flat side of the two first traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile such that the region of the facing narrow sides of the first traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile is overlapped, laterally bridged in terms of forces, covered and/or covered along the longitudinal direction.
7. The traction member according to any one of claims 1 to 6,

- wherein the cross section of the traction element arrangements with a flat, band-shaped profile respectively is essentially rectangular and elongate

- or the traction elements with a flat, bandshaped profile have a width that lies between approximately four times and approximately ten times, twenty times or fifty times of its height,- or the traction elements are in the form of film-like or film strip-like traction elements with a thickness of less than one

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 millimeter which are optionally realized in a self-adhesive fashion or provided with an adhesive layer.
8. The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 7, wherein the flat sides of the traction element arrangements are essentially arranged on top of one another laterally congruent, wherein the joint regions are offset in the longitudinal direction, and/or the width of the flat sides measured normal to the longitudinal direction corresponds to the width of the entire traction member .
9. The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 8, wherein the traction member is realized in the form of a band-shaped traction belt, the flat side of which is deflectable or is deflected about a deflection roller transverse to its longitudinal direction .
10. The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 9, wherein each joint region of each traction element arrangement is offset relative to all additional joint regions of the other traction element arrangements in the longitudinal direction such that each joint region is overlapped by a traction element of any other traction element arrangement and bridged in terms of forces.
11.

The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 10, wherein a traction element arrangement, particularly each traction element arrangement, essentially is laterally connected to an additional adj acent traction element along the entire length of its

2015222168 04 Oct 2018 traction elements, namely in a continuous or sectional fashion, or two interconnected traction element arrangements essentially are laterally connected to one another along the entire length of their traction elements.
12. The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 11, wherein the traction elements of a traction element arrangement respectively have at least one connecting face, which extends on the outer sides of the traction elements along the longitudinal direction and by means of which the traction element arrangement is connected to an additional traction element arrangement, and the connecting face preferably is essentially realized planar and/or plane.
13. The traction member according to claim 12, wherein the plane connecting face of a traction element arrangement is connected to the plane connecting face of an additional traction element arrangement by means of a connecting member.
14. The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 13, wherein a traction element of the first traction element arrangement is laterally connected to two traction elements of an adjacent second traction element arrangement such that the joint region of the second traction element arrangement is overlapped by the traction element of the first traction element arrangement and bridged in terms of forces.
15. The traction member according to any one of claims

1 to 14, wherein two or more traction element arrangements are connected to one another by means of an additional traction element arrangement.

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