DE102013014391A1 - End piece of a cable guide chain - Google Patents

Abstract

End piece or floor element for positioning a cable chain on the floor with one or more feet and a connection element for the cable chain, wherein the tail is formed so that underneath a clearance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm in height for receiving a Kaubelauslasselements a bottom outlet remains.

Description

The present invention relates to end pieces and floor elements for cable drag chains (hereinafter also referred to cable chains), in particular end pieces and bottom elements for placement and / or fixation of such cable drag chains on the floor. The end pieces and bottom elements according to the invention may preferably be used with different types of floor outlets and / or independently of such floor outlet.

The positioning of cable chains on the floor is currently mostly done by end pieces in the form of so-called floor panels, which lie substantially flat on the floor. Such known from the prior art base plate 1 is exemplary in 1 shown. The bottom plate 1 has a stand 4 with a connection element 2 about which the last link 7 a cable chain 6 hinged to the bottom plate 1 is attached. A cable K, according to 1 on a Kabelausführelement 9 from a floor outlet 8th is carried out, is at the bottom plate 1 in the cable chain 6 added. If there is no floor outlet, the cable K can be continued freely over the floor. The bottom plate is usually positioned next to the cable outlet.

To a movement of the bottom-near end of the cable chain 6 counteract bottom plate usually have a certain weight (eg., About 300 g). In addition, the frame 4 on its underside with plastic buffers (eg., In the form of so-called "Bumpons" Fa. 3M) are provided. The bottom plate 1 is therefore substantially flat on the ground or is only spaced from the ground by the plastic buffers. Due to the plastic buffers can result (for example in wood, stone or concrete floors), a ground clearance of up to 5 mm. In carpets, however, the plastic buffers partially sink, so that the distance is less in this case.

Exits (in particular floor outlets) for carrying out cables are not standardized and sometimes differ greatly in their dimensions (length, width, height) and in the design of any cable-carrying element. Due to the continuously growing variety of floor outlets, compatibility problems with common floor slabs are becoming more common. This applies in particular to the international market.

Therefore, there is still a need for improved cable chain terminations.

The invention has for its object to provide floor elements or end pieces that overcome the problems of known constructions. Here, preferably, the flexibility of known end pieces should be increased so that they can be used with improved improved different types of Bodenauslässen.

The objects are achieved with end pieces according to the claims. Preferred embodiments can be found in the dependent claims.

The present application relates according to a first aspect of end pieces for positioning, placement and / or fixation of cable chains on the floor, wherein the end pieces according to the invention alternatively for positioning, placement and / or fixation of an end of one or more cable chains at other locations (such as a table) can be used.

The tail according to the invention has one or more feet and a connection element for the cable chain. The end piece is preferably designed such that it has a free space of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm or at least 35 mm in height for receiving a Kaubelausführelements ( 9 ) of a floor outlet ( 8th ) remains.

The connection element can be arranged at a distance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm or at least 50 mm from the floor. For this purpose, the connecting element in the vertical direction at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30, at least 40 mm or at least 50 mm from the ground support surface of the feet or be arranged spaced. In this case, preferably the distance in the vertical direction (or in the normal direction to the ground, for example. In sloping floors) meant when the tail is suitable for use on the ground (with the connecting element preferably facing up and / or the / the feet rest on the ground ).

By spacing the connection element from the floor, it is possible to ensure that the space between connection element and floor remains free. In this case, for example, a free space of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm in height can be achieved. This makes it possible to use the end pieces according to the invention at Bodenauslässen having different high, wide or long Kabelausführelemente. If there is no floor outlet and the cables are continued over the floor, the bending radius of the cables, which are led out of the cable chain at the end of the cable chain, is considerably reduced. This is particularly advantageous in optical waveguides in which an excessive bending to Breakage of the conductor can lead. Also, the tail can, at least partially, be arranged above or on the cable outlet. This can in particular allow a flexible and advantageous use.

The end piece is optionally designed so that the connection element is arranged a maximum of 200 mm, a maximum of 100 mm or a maximum of 50 mm from the ground.

The connecting element of the end pieces according to the invention can be adapted for use with different cable chain types. For this purpose, the connection element may for example be designed so that one or more cable chains can be fastened thereto by means of a screw, plug or snap connection. The connection element may, inter alia, have one or more plug connections and / or ball heads, which may preferably be connected to one or more connection elements of the last link of the cable chain. Alternatively or additionally, the connection element for fastening one or more cable chains may have a thread and / or a screw. Alternatively or additionally, the connection element can also be designed for fastening a cable chain by means of a cable and / or for the magnetic or integral (eg adhesive) fastening of a cable chain.

For example, connecting elements according to the invention can have a plug with a spherical or cylindrical thickening. One or more protrusions (eg two, three or four protrusions) which preferably project from the thickening essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the plug (eg in the region of the equatorial plane of the spherical thickening) may also be provided on the plug perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the plug is). The plug can, for example, according to the patent application DE 10 2013 000 905.7 be incorporated by the applicant, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety in the present application. Alternatively, the connection element may also have one of the plug receptacles described in DE 10 2013 000 905.7.

The plug can also have a cylindrical (with a round, oval, polygonal or irregular cross-sectional and / or base), prism-shaped, oval or polygonal in cross-section, which is designed for insertion into a corresponding connector receptacle of a cable chain link. At this cylindrical portion, one or more locking elements may be provided, which preferably protrude substantially in the radial direction of the cylindrical portion (preferably transversely to the longitudinal axis of the plug) from the outer periphery of the cylinder. The latching element (s) can in this case be designed, for example, in the form of a bead or a collar, wherein the bead or the collar can surround the cylindrical section at least in sections or completely. By the locking elements engage in a corresponding undercut of the connector receptacle, they can counteract the removal of the connector receptacle in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the plug from the cylindrical portion. The result is preferably a required withdrawal force of more than 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 or 10 kg. The required peel force may preferably be at least 10, 20, 30, 50, 70 or 100 N.

In addition, between the spherical thickening and the cylindrical portion, the plug may have a constricted portion, by which the cylindrical portion is spaced from the thickening.

The connecting element according to the invention is preferably designed so that a tilting of the last link of the cable chain, which is fastened to the end piece, is prevented. This is just not the case in the prior art, where the last term as in 1 shown frequently hinged and / or tilts and the lower end of the cable chain "bulges". The connecting element is therefore preferably designed so that the last link of the cable chain can be brought into a first position in which the angular position of the last link to the horizontal plane and / or to the ground plane is mechanically locked. In addition, the member can preferably be further brought into a second position in which the angular position can be changed and / or the member can be tilted. The connection element according to the invention can therefore provide 2 or more locking positions, wherein in a locking position preferably a hinged connection and in a further locking position preferably a rigid and / or vertical connection is achieved.

In the first position, the last member preferably can not rotate about an axis that is transverse to the vertical axis. Preferably also no rotation about an axis is possible which is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the last member. In this case, the longitudinal axis of the last member in the first position is preferably arranged at an angle of approximately 90 ° to the horizontal axis. The tilting of the last member can be counteracted in different ways depending on the design of the connection element. Thus, for example, in the case of the above-mentioned connector, the cylindrical portion may be formed so that a tilting of the connector receptacle of a corresponding chain link is prevented when the connector receptacle is pushed onto the cylindrical portion.

For coupling the last link of the cable chain, the connecting element may alternatively or additionally also provide two spaced-apart (for example at least 1 cm, at least 2 cm or at least 3 cm apart) projections or pins. The protrusions or pins preferably extend substantially along a common expansion line, wherein the expansion line may be, for example, parallel to the horizontal plane. The projections or pins may be formed in each case for coupling to a connecting element of the last cable chain link.

In each case a detent, preferably a recess, which can extend, for example, into and / or through the legs of the end piece, can be provided under the projections or pins. The recess is preferably designed so that a part of the last member (in particular the standing with the projections or pins engaging connector) can be inserted into this. When inserted, the engagement of the connecting member (s) of the member with the recess preferably blocks the tilting of the last link of the chain, whereby the bulging of the chain can also be reduced. Alternatively, of course, a projection of the connecting element may extend into a corresponding recess of the last member to counteract the tilting.

Alternatively or additionally, a rod can be provided on the connection element (for example a round rod), which preferably extends substantially in the vertical direction. The rod is preferably designed so that chain links can be threaded or pushed onto these or clipped on this inside or outside. Also in this case, a bulging of the chain in the end area is minimized.

By a rigid (ie non-hinged), preferably perpendicular to the ground attachment of the last or the links of the cable chain is achieved on the bottom plate, excessive bending of the cable can be prevented, such as to prevent the breakage of optical fibers. This is achieved by the rod according to the invention, cylindrical connection (preferably with a collar or a bead) and / or by the other locks according to the invention.

For attachment of the rod to the end piece, this can for example be inserted into an opening or into a through hole of the connection element and / or the connection portion, preferably so that the rod is arranged substantially in the vertical direction. The opening or the through hole can also be provided in the connector described above.

The rod is preferably at least 1 cm, at least 2 cm, at least 5 cm or at least 10 cm long.

According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the tail has a plurality of legs. These may be, for example, three, four, five, six, seven, eight or more legs, preferably each leg provides a foot. One or more of the legs may be adjustable in height, which is particularly advantageous when using more than three legs to compensate for unevenness of the floor, especially in the area of floor outlets.

The legs may be connected at a common connecting portion and extending therefrom in different directions. This connecting portion can optionally be a central portion, which is preferably provided substantially centrally between the legs. For example, the legs may be arranged in a star shape at and / or at regular angular intervals about the connecting or central portion.

The central portion and the legs may therefore be in the form of a "spider", with one end of each leg forming one leg of the tail and the other end of the leg attached to the connecting or central portion.

The legs may be substantially parallel to the ground plane and / or to the horizontal plane. Alternatively, the legs may be arranged at an angle to the ground plane and / or to the horizontal plane. The angle is in this case preferably 5 ° to 30 °, more preferably 5 ° to 15 °. At its foot-side end, the legs may have a curved or angled portion which may extend at a greater angle to the ground plane and / or the horizontal plane (eg at least 30 °, at least 40 °, at least 50 °, at least 60 ° or at least 70 °). The legs may be curved along their entire length or only along a particular section. The legs may have a horizontal portion, which is preferably spaced from the ground. Between the horizontal portion and the foot-side end portion of the legs, an angle of a maximum of 160 °, a maximum of 140 °, a maximum of 130 °, a maximum of 120 ° or a maximum of 110 ° may be formed.

The legs are preferably formed so that the connecting or central portion at a distance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm at least 25 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 35 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 45 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 55 mm or at least 60 mm from the ground. For this purpose, the connecting or central portion in the vertical direction is preferably at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 35 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 45 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 55 mm or at least 60 mm spaced from the ground support surface of the or the feet of the legs. This allows a free space of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 35 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 45 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 55 mm or at least 60 mm between the connecting or central section and remain on the ground.

At the connecting or central portion may be provided a coupling device for fastening the tail on the ground, on a floor outlet and / or on furniture. For this purpose, at the connecting or central portion, for example, a thread and / or a through hole may be provided to receive a screw or similar fastening means. Alternatively or additionally, however, flexible coupling devices can also be provided on the connecting or central section, as can be seen for example from US Pat DE 199 63 118 C1 are known, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in the present application.

Alternatively or additionally, a strain relief may be provided on the connecting or central portion, for example in the form of a rope (for example in the form of a steel cable). The rope can be fastened in the ground, in a floor outlet or on a piece of furniture.

At the connecting or central portion may further be provided for additional support of the connecting or central portion on the ground. The support may in this case be formed as a separate component or integrally with the central or connecting portion. For example, the connecting or central section may also extend down to the floor.

The connecting element of the end pieces according to the invention can be arranged centrally or centrally between the feet. For this purpose, the connection element can be provided and / or attached, for example, to the central section. Here, a one-piece or separate design of the connection element and the central portion is possible, wherein the connection element is preferably formed by a separate component that is positively, positively and / or materially attached to the central portion and / or attached to the legs (eg. via a snap or clip connection). As a result, the central section and the connection element can be produced from different materials, for example the central section made of metal (eg made of steel or aluminum) and the connection element made of plastic (for example made of ABS, PA, PP, PC, PE, POM, polystyrene, PVC or thermoplastic polyurethanes). The connecting element can be snapped onto the legs, for example, in the region of the central section, wherein rotation of the connecting element can be prevented via the cross formed by the legs or via the star formed by the legs. Alternatively or additionally, a connection for the connection element may be provided directly on the central portion, such as a bore, a thread or a snap device.

To better compensate for uneven floors, one or more of the feet may include a support member that preferably provides an enlarged or widened support surface. The support element may for example be in the form of a plate, a plate, a sphere, a hemisphere, a spherical cap, a suction cup, a cone, a cylinder or a prism. In this case, the support element can be connected to the respective pedestal via a joint (eg via a ball joint). Furthermore, it is possible to provide a slip protection on the underside of the support element. This may, for example, be in the form of a plastic buffer, a rubber element (eg as a bumpon), a glue point (eg with adhesive and / or UV glue for glass), as a hook-and-loop fastener (eg as a hook and / or hook). or loop portion of a hook and loop fastener) or as one or more domes. Alternatively or additionally, the support element may have a receptacle for a screw, a pin and / or a nail. The support elements can be sprung mounted on the feet, such as a coil spring or an elastic buffer. It can be provided on the underside of the support also a slider (felt glides or Teflongleiter). This is advantageous, for example, in flexible and / or temporary solutions that are not above a floor outlet.

The feet or the support elements of the end pieces may also be formed magnetically.

According to a further embodiment of the tail according to the invention this may have a cantilevered arm, which preferably projects from the stand, so that the connection element can be spaced from the bottom support surface of the stand by being provided and / or attached to the cantilevered arm. The connection element may be provided, for example, on the cantilevered end of the cantilevered arm. Under certain circumstances, several cantilevered arms may be provided.

The cantilevered arm preferably protrudes obliquely upward from the pedestal. The cantilevered arm may extend away from and / or protrude from the base at an angle of 20 ° to 80 °, preferably 30 ° to 60 ° to the horizontal plane and / or to the ground plane. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art from the present disclosure that the cantilevered arm may be any (eg, curved and / or convoluted), as long as the connector is sufficiently spaced therefrom.

The cantilevered arm may be formed as a flat web. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible to form the cantilever arm integrally with the pedestal and / or to make the cantilevered arm of the same material as the pedestal.

The at least one pedestal may be formed in a variety of ways, such as a homogeneous or hollow body (eg, in the shape of a prism, a hemisphere, a spherical cap, an egg, a cuboid, or a cylinder) from which the cantilevered arm projects , or as a sheet-like element, which rests at least partially flat on the ground. If the at least one base is formed as a planar element, this can form a substantially closed shape, which surrounds the connection element in order to sufficiently support the end piece according to the invention in all directions. The substantially closed shape can be broken at least at one point and be formed, for example, as a frame, with one or more arms. There may be a gap and / or clearance between the arms, so the arms may not touch.

The base may be relatively flat and may be, for example, a maximum of 2 cm or a maximum of 1 cm high.

Alternatively or additionally, the flat element may have a free form, a tortuous and / or a curved shape.

To prevent slippage, the base (in particular the planar element) may have on its underside one or more rubber buffers (eg bumpons), adhesive dots, suction cups, adhesive layers and / or hook-and-loop fasteners (eg hook or loop portions of such Velcro) be provided. Alternatively or additionally, the stand (in particular a surface resting on the floor portion thereof) may be designed so that it surrounds a Kabelausführelement a Bodenauslasses and / or other projections on the ground. Furthermore, the stand (in particular a surface resting on the floor portion thereof) may be designed so that it can engage in one or more recesses of a floor outlet and / or the floor. By such measures, a reliable backup of the base is achieved against slipping.

The different components of the end pieces according to the invention can be made of different materials. Thus, the one or more feet, the connecting element, the legs, the central portion and / or the support elements each example of metal, plastic (such as ABS, PA, PP, PC, PE, POM, polystyrene, PVC or thermoplastic polyurethanes), glass , Wood stone and / or artificial stone. In this case, it is particularly appropriate to use different materials for different components in order to best meet the requirements of the various components. For example, the legs and / or the feet may be made of metal (eg, steel or aluminum) (such as bent sheet metal strips, metal runners or rods, but also by casting, machining, laser cutting, punching and / or bending). The legs can then be painted, coated with plastic and / or clad, wherein it is particularly preferred to cover the visible parts of the legs and / or feet with a positive, cohesive and / or materially attached thereto plastic jacket. The plastic sheath can be attached to the legs, for example, by a snap, snap or clip connection, but it can also be applied as a lacquer layer.

Alternatively or additionally, the legs can each be made as a hollow profile, for example as a downwardly open hollow profile, which can assume the shape of a downwardly open U, for example, in cross section. This hollow profile may be weighted down with weights (which may be provided, for example, in the opening of the hollow section) or used in combination with other metal elements (such as support elements, a connection element and / or a metal connection section) to engage the end piece to give desired weight. Even with the use of other profiles / shapes for the legs, these can be made of plastic and weighted by other components, which may consist of metal, for example. For this purpose, in particular the use of support elements, a connection element and / or a connecting portion of metal offers. The support elements can therefore serve as a weighting.

The tail may have a minimum weight of 100 g, 200 g, 300 g or 400 g. The end pieces according to the invention can be produced as stamped parts.

According to aspects of the present invention, the cable chain can be continued on the elements according to the invention. In this case, a floor element according to the invention is provided. In this case, the same cable chain can be continued or another cable chain can be connected to the floor element in order to forward the cables therein.

Aspects of the present invention also relate to cable chains with an end piece according to the invention and / or a floor element according to the invention.

Further aspects of the invention relate to connecting elements according to the invention, which can be used not only in connection with the end pieces according to the invention but also separately (eg as connecting elements for connecting cable chain links to one another).

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the drawings. These are merely schematic representations that often do not represent other (optional) structures to clarify certain aspects or that also consider various optional related aspects in one presentation. In this context, the same reference symbols indicate equivalent, similar, comparable or identical components in the illustrated embodiments.

The embodiments shown may be varied in many ways within the scope of the claims. The disclosure of the figures is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. It should be noted that the features of the above embodiments can be combined in a single embodiment. Depending on the embodiment, embodiments of the invention can therefore have all or only some of the features mentioned above. Show it:

1 a perspective view of a bottom plate according to the prior art;

2 a perspective view of an end piece according to the invention according to a first embodiment;

3 a perspective view of an end piece according to the invention according to a variant of the first embodiment;

4 a perspective view of the tail of 4 at a cable outlet;

5 an exploded perspective view of an end piece according to the invention according to a further variant of the first embodiment;

6 an enlarged view of a connecting element according to the invention;

7A and 7B perspective views of an end piece according to the invention according to a further variant of the first embodiment;

8th a perspective view of an end piece according to the invention according to a second embodiment.

2 represents an inventive tail 10 according to a first exemplary embodiment schematically in perspective view. The tail 10 has three legs 12 on, which is star-shaped from a central section 15 to which the legs are connected extend. At the end opposite to the central section, put the legs 12 stands 13 ready, over which the tail 10 is stored on the ground.

At the central section 15 is in the middle between the feet 13 a connection element 16 (not visible) provided. About the connection element 16 is a cable chain 6 about her last link 7 at the tail 10 attached.

As in 2 it can be seen are the legs 12 of the tail 10 in this case designed so that the central portion 15 and the terminal attached thereto 16 are clearly spaced from the ground. The central section 15 and / or the connection element 16 In this case, they are preferably arranged at a distance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm from the bottom on which the end piece stands.

3 shows a schematic perspective view of an end piece 20 according to a variant of the embodiment of 2 , This is on your feet 13 the legs 12 one support plate each 14 provided, for example, can take the form of a plate. In 3 is also clearly the connection element 16 visible at the central section 15 is provided and on which the (in 3 not shown) cable chain 6 (please refer 2 ) on the tail 20 can be attached.

The variant of 3 has four legs 12 on, which is star-shaped from the central section 15 extend to the outside. However, as those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from the present disclosure, three legs (as in U.S. Pat 2 ) or more legs find use. However, only two legs can be used, for example when the support plates 14 are wide enough to adequately support the tail and / or legs 12 anchored in the ground and / or at a floor outlet.

To even more uneven ground, the support plates can 14 over joints 18 on the feet 13 be fastened. This is exemplary in 4 indicated, which is another schematic perspective view of the end support 20 from 3 shows. The end support 20 is in the area of a floor outlet 8th in which, in particular in the edge regions (see, for example, region A), irregularities frequently occur. Thanks to the spacing of the connection element from the floor, the Kabelausführelement 9 the bottom outlet 8th Open without difficulty and cable (not shown) after the last link 7 the cable chain are easily guided in the bottom outlet. The end supports according to the invention 10 . 20 provide enough space for Kabelausführelemente different floor outlets with different opening widths. In the Kabelausführelement 9 it may, for example, be a fold-out Kabelausführelement. Also, the tail can be advantageously positioned over the cable outlet.

As further in 4 can be represented, on the connection element (in 4 through the limb 7 hidden) a rod 40 be provided on the last link 7 and optionally further links of the cable chain, which at the tail 20 is attached, can be postponed. By preventing the last links of the chain from tilting (cf. 1 to the prior art), a straight course is guaranteed even in the lower end of the cable chain. This is particularly advantageous when fiber optic cables are routed through the cable chain since, as exemplified in US Pat 1 represented by the bulging of the end portion of the cable chain can lead to increased deflection of the cable.

5 shows an exploded view of an end piece according to the invention 20 and thereby illustrates its (optional) modular design. The tail according to the invention 20 can do this with different connection elements 16 be provided, for example, via a coupling section 169 in a picture of the central section 15 can be used. At the central section 15 can additionally have a through hole 19 be provided in the one screw 60 , the rod 40 and / or a rope can be inserted. This can either serve directly as a coupling device through which the tail 20 is attached to the floor, to a floor outlet or to furniture, or for attachment of other coupling devices (such as a coupling device 70 according to the DE 199 63 118 C1 ) be used. The individual components of the tail 20 can therefore be advantageously made of different materials.

6 shows an enlarged view of a connecting element according to the invention. This has a plug 160 with a spherical thickening 161 on. At the plug 160 are also two projections 163 and 164 provided, preferably substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the plug L from the thickening 161 protrude.

The plug 160 also has a cylindrical section 166 on, which is designed for insertion into a corresponding connector receptacle of a cable chain link. The cylindrical section 166 is preferably designed so that when inserted into the connector receptacle tilting of the connector receptacle about an axis which is transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the plug 160 is prevented. Between the spherical thickening 161 and the cylindrical section 166 is a constricted area in the illustrated embodiment 165 intended.

At the cylindrical section 166 is a locking element in the form of a torus 167 provided, but the bead can also be formed only partially. The bead 167 is in the radial direction of the cylindrical portion 166 and can engage in a corresponding undercut of the connector receptacle to the removal of the connector receptacle from the cylindrical portion 166 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the plug 160 counteract. The two transverse cylinders 163 and 164 preferably engage in a bayonet lock, according to the application DE 10 2013 000 905.7 can be trained. This bayonet catch or locking device can of course also be formed on the connection element of the bottom plate.

7A shows a perspective view of an end piece according to the invention according to a further variant of the first embodiment, in which case, for example, a connection element 16 ' for an alternative chain link 7 ' is pictured. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, based on the present disclosure, that other prior art cable tie terminals may be used in conjunction with the present invention.

The connection element 16 ' has two spaced pins 36 they are both along a straight line C parallel to the horizontal plane extend. The pins 36 are each of a connecting element 107 of the limb 7 ' taken, preferably along the pins 36 can be moved.

Determining the angular position of the limb 7 ' (preferably at an angle of 90 ° between the longitudinal axis of the limb and the horizontal plane) is under the pins 36 one recess each 38 provided, extending through the underlying leg 12 extends. The connecting elements 107 can therefore be inserted into the recesses, thereby blocking movement around the line C (as well as all other axes). In the recess (s) 38 can also be provided locking devices, whereby a rigid connection in one, for example. Lower, arranged position is allowed.

As further shown schematically in FIG 7B can be shown in the area of the central section 15 (or possibly other parts of the legs 12 ) also a support 80 be provided. Nevertheless, a free space B is obtained under the end pieces according to the invention, can be accommodated in the Kabelausführelemente different Bodenauslässe.

8th Finally, shows a schematic perspective view of an end support 50 according to a further embodiment. The end support 50 here has a stand 54 on, which is formed by a substantially flat-lying element. The sheet element is exemplified here as a frame, which may have the form of a U, C or O (in 8th an O-shape is shown by way of example). The frame may be designed to be a cable-carrying member 9 a floor outlet 8th can surround, whereby an additional safeguard against slipping is achieved. The frame 54 It also surrounds the connection element (not visible), on which the last link 7 the cable chain 6 connected.

As based on 8th can be seen, the connection element on a cantilevered arm 53 be arranged, extending from the base 54 extends upward (eg, obliquely upward) and the connection element so spaced from the ground. Also, the embodiments of 8th therefore offers sufficient space for Kabelausführelemente different Bodenauslässe. As in the embodiment (or in the variants) of 2 to 7 In addition, the curvature of the cables, the last link 7 the cable chain 6 in the bottom outlet 8th or (if no bottom outlet is present) are guided along the floor, significantly reduced, for example, which prevents the breakage of the optical waveguides.

The present invention thus provides different tails and floor elements for cable drag chains that can be flexibly used with different types of floor outlet. In addition, there are additional advantages in particular when using optical waveguides, as they are less deflected. The tails and floor elements according to the invention therefore offer significant advantages over previous floor panels.

The invention particularly relates to the following aspects:
Aspect 1: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) for positioning a cable chain ( 6 ) on the ground with one or more feet ( 13 . 54 ) and a connecting element ( 16 ) for a cable chain ( 6 ).
Aspect 2: End piece or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 1, wherein the tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) is designed so that below it a free space of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 30 mm or at least 35 mm in height for receiving a Kaubelausführelements ( 9 ) of a floor outlet ( 8th ) remains.
Aspect 3: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) is preferably formed so that the connecting element ( 16 ) at a distance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 35 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 45 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 55 mm or at least 60 mm from the floor.
Aspect 4: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 1, 2 or 3, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) in the vertical direction at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 35 mm, at least 40 mm, at least 45 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 55 mm or at least 60 mm from the ground support surface of the feet or feet ( 13 . 34 ) is spaced.
Aspect 5: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 3 or 4, wherein the distance to an upper end of the connecting element ( 16 ), to a lower end of the connecting element ( 16 ) or to a mid-point between the upper end and the lower end of the connecting element ( 16 ) is measured in the vertical direction.
Aspect 6: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) is formed so that under the connection element ( 16 ) a free space of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm to the ground remains.
Aspect 7: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) is formed so that between the bottom and the connecting element ( 16 ) a clearance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm remains.
Aspect 8: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) several legs ( 12 ), about two or preferably three, wherein the legs ( 12 ) of equal length or different lengths.
Aspect 9: Tail or Floor Element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 8, wherein on the legs ( 12 ) one stand each ( 13 ).
Aspect 10: Tail or Floor Element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 8 or 9, wherein the tail ( 10 . 20 ) three, four, five, six, seven, eight or more legs ( 12 ) having.
Aspect 11: Tail or Floor Element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 8, 9 or 10, wherein at least one of the feet ( 13 ) and / or at least one of the legs ( 12 ) has a height adjustment.
Aspect 12: Tail or Floor Element ( 10 . 20 ) according to one of the aspects 8 to 11, wherein the legs ( 12 ) from a central or connecting section ( 15 ), preferably star-shaped, with the legs ( 12 ) can be arranged in uniform or non-uniform angular intervals.
Aspect 13: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to any of aspects 8 to 12, wherein the legs ( 12 ) at the central or connecting section ( 15 ) converge.
Aspect 14: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 12 or 13, wherein the legs ( 12 ) from the central or connecting section ( 15 ) extend outwards.
Aspect 15: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 12, 13 or 14, wherein the central or connecting section ( 15 ) is arranged at a distance of at least 10 mm, preferably at least 20 mm, more preferably at least 25 mm to the ground, wherein preferably the distance to the lower end or to the middle of the central or connecting portion ( 16 ) is measured in the vertical direction.
Aspect 16: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to one of the aspects 12 to 15, wherein the central or connecting section ( 15 ) in the vertical direction at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm from the ground support surface of the foot (s) ( 13 ), wherein preferably the distance to the lower end or to the middle of the central or connecting portion ( 16 ) is measured in the vertical direction.
Aspect 17: Tail or Floor Element ( 10 . 20 ) according to one of the aspects 12 to 16, wherein under the central or connecting section ( 15 ) a clearance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm height remains to the ground.
Aspect 18: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to one of the aspects 12 to 17, wherein between the bottom and the central portion ( 15 ) a clearance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm in height remains.
Aspect 19: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to one of the aspects 12 to 18, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) at the central or connecting section ( 15 ) is provided.
Aspect 20: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to one of the aspects 8 to 19, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) in the middle between the feet ( 13 ) is arranged.
Aspect 21: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to any of aspects 12 to 20, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) separately from the central or connecting section ( 15 ) is formed and secured thereto.
Aspect 22: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to one of the aspects 12 to 21, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) and the central or connecting section ( 15 ) are made of different materials.
Aspect 23: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 22, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) made of plastic and the central or connecting section ( 15 ) is made of metal (eg steel or aluminum).
Aspect 24: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 22 or 23, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) positively, positively and / or cohesively on the central or connecting portion ( 15 ) is attached.
Aspect 25: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 24, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) via a snap or clip connection at the central or connecting section ( 15 ) is attached.
Aspect 26: Tail or Floor Element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the feet or legs ( 13 ) each a support element ( 14 ), wherein the support element ( 14 ) optionally sprung on the stand (s) ( 13 ) and / or wherein the support element ( 14 ) can be magnetic.
Aspect 27: Tail or Floor Element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 26, wherein the support element ( 14 ) via a joint (eg a ball joint) with the base ( 13 ) connected is.
Aspect 28: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 26 or 27, wherein the support element ( 14 ) the shape of a plate, a plate (with or without a suction cup), a roller, a ball (eg a ball roller), a hemisphere, a spherical cap, a prism, a cuboid, a suction cup, a slider (e.g. Felt or Teflon) and / or has a screw receptacle.
Aspect 29: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 26, 27 or 28, wherein at the bottom of the support element ( 14 ) a slip guard is formed.
Aspect 30: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 according to aspect 29, wherein the anti-skid device is in the form of a plastic buffer, a rubber element (eg as Bumpon), as a glue point, as a Velcro system (eg. as a hook or loop portion of a hook and loop fastener), as one or more domes, as a suction cup and / or as a receptacle for a screw, a pin and / or a nail is formed.
Aspect 31: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the tail or floor element ( 50 ) a cantilever arm ( 53 ) having.
Aspect 32: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to aspect 31, wherein, the cantilever arm ( 53 ) from the pedestal ( 54 ) or from the pedestal ( 54 protruding).
Aspect 33: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to aspect 32, wherein the cantilever arm ( 53 ) from the pedestal ( 54 ) protrudes obliquely upward or protrudes.
Aspect 34: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to aspect 31, 32 or 33, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) at the cantilevered end of the cantilevered arm ( 53 ) is provided.
Aspect 35: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to one of the aspects 31 to 34, wherein the cantilever arm ( 53 ) is designed as a flat web.
Aspect 36: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to one of the aspects 31 to 35, wherein the pedestal ( 54 ) is provided by a planar element, which preferably rests substantially flat on the ground.
Aspect 37: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to any one of items 31 to 36, wherein the pedestal ( 54 ) forms in plan view a substantially closed shape and / or a substantially closed frame, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) is preferably arranged within this substantially closed shape and / or within this substantially closed frame in plan view.
Aspect 38: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to aspect 37, wherein the substantially closed mold and / or the substantially closed frame is broken at least at one point.
Aspect 39: Tail or floor element ( 50 ) according to aspect 36, 37 or 38, wherein the flat element has on its underside one or more rubber bumpers (eg one or more bumpons), adhesive dots and / or hook-and-loop fasteners (eg a hook or loop portion of such a hook-and-loop fastener) having.
Aspect 40: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the feet or legs ( 13 . 54 ) made of metal, plastic, glass, wood and / or stone is / are.
Aspect 41: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the legs ( 12 ) are made of metal, plastic, glass, wood and / or stone.
Aspect 42: End piece or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the legs ( 12 ) are provided by bent metal strips, metal skids or rods.
Aspect 43: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the legs ( 12 ) are each formed as a hollow profile, preferably as a downwardly open hollow profile, such as a downwardly open U-profile.
Aspect 44: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 43, wherein the hollow profile is made of plastic and is optionally weighted with weights, such as from the inside.
Aspect 45: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the foot (s) ( 12 . 54 ) and / or the legs ( 12 ) at least partially or completely painted and / or at least partially or completely encased in plastic or clad.
Aspect 46: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the legs ( 12 ) are provided with a positive, cohesive and / or cohesively mounted plastic jacket.
Aspect 47: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to aspect 46, wherein the plastic sheath is fastened to the legs by a snap or clip connection.
Aspect 48: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the plate (s) ( 14 ) are made of metal, plastic, glass, wood and / or stone.
Aspect 49: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a coupling device ( 60 . 70 ) for fixing the end piece or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) at the bottom, at a floor outlet ( 9 ) and / or on furniture.
Aspect 50: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 49, wherein the central or connecting section ( 16 ) a thread and / or a through hole ( 19 ) for receiving and / or fastening the coupling device ( 60 . 70 ) having.
Aspect 51: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 49 or 50, wherein the coupling device is designed as a screw ( 60 ) and / or as a device ( 70 ) according to the DE 199 63 118 C1 is trained.
Aspect 52: Tail or Floor Element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 49, 50 or 51, such as coupling device ( 60 . 70 ) on the cantilever arm ( 53 ) is attachable.
Aspect 53: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a strain relief in the form of a rope (for example in the form of a steel cable), wherein the rope in the ground, in a floor outlet ( 8th ) or can be fastened to a furniture, wherein the cable can optionally be threaded through the connection element and / or the connecting or central section.
Aspect 54: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein at the central or connecting section ( 15 ) a support ( 80 ) is provided.
Aspect 55: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 54, wherein the support ( 80 ) as a separate component or integral with the central or connecting section ( 15 ) is trained.
Aspect 56: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 55, wherein the support ( 80 ) by the continuation of the central or link section ( 15 ) down (for example, to the floor) is provided, wherein the continuation may be designed, for example in the form of a sleeve.
Aspect 57: Connection element ( 16 ) for a cable chain in the form of a plug ( 160 ), whereby the plug ( 160 ) a spherical or cylindrical thickening ( 161 ) having.
Aspect 58: Connection element ( 16 ) according to aspect 57, wherein the plug ( 160 ) one or more projections ( 163 . 164 ) (preferably two, three or four projections), which are preferably substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug ( 160 ) of the thickening ( 161 ) protrude.
Aspect 59: Connection element according to aspect 58, wherein the projections ( 163 . 164 ) in the area of the equatorial plane of the spherical thickening ( 161 ) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug ( 160 ), stand out.
Aspect 60: Connection element according to Aspect 57, 58 or 59, wherein the plug ( 160 ) further comprises a cylindrical portion ( 166 ), which is designed for insertion into a corresponding connector receptacle of a cable chain link.
Aspect 61: Connection element according to aspect 60, wherein on the cylindrical section ( 166 ) one or more latching elements are provided, wherein the latching element / s from the cylindrical portion ( 166 ) protrude substantially in the radial direction (preferably transversely to the longitudinal axis of the plug), wherein the / the latching element / e preferably the removal of the connector receptacle from the cylindrical portion ( 166 ) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug ( 160 ) counteracted.
Aspect 62: connecting element according to aspect 61, wherein the locking element in the form of a bead or a collar ( 167 ), wherein the bead or the collar ( 167 ) the cylindrical section ( 166 ) at least partially or completely circulates.
Aspect 63: Connection element according to aspect 60, 61 or 62, wherein the plug ( 160 ) between the spherical thickening ( 161 ) and the cylindrical section ( 166 ) a constricted area ( 165 ) having.
Aspect 64: Connection element according to one of the aspects 57 to 63, wherein the plug ( 160 ) an opening or a through hole ( 162 ) for receiving a rod ( 40 ), a rope, a screw and / or other fastening means.
Aspect 65: Connection element according to aspect 64, wherein the opening or the through-hole (FIG. 162 ) is formed so that the rod ( 40 ) parallel and / or congruent to the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug ( 160 ) is arranged.
Aspect 66: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein at the connecting element ( 16 ) one or more plugs ( 160 ) according to one of the aspects 57 to 65 and / or one or more receptacles for such plugs ( 160 ) are provided.
Aspect 67: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein at the connecting element ( 16 ) is formed a Doppelsteckeransatz.
Aspect 68: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) is formed so that the cable chain ( 6 ) by a screw, magnetic and / or by gluing it can be attached.
Aspect 69: Tail or floor element ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) a thread, a through hole ( 19 . 162 ) and / or has a screw.
Aspect 70: Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) is designed so that the last member ( 7 ) of the cable chain ( 6 ) can not rotate about an axis parallel to the horizontal plane.
Aspect 71: Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) is designed so that the last member ( 7 ) of the cable chain ( 6 ) can not rotate about an axis that is transverse to the vertical axis.
Aspect 72: Tailpiece ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) is designed so that the last member ( 7 ) of the cable chain ( 6 ) can be arranged at a fixed angle to the horizontal plane, preferably so that the longitudinal axis of the member ( 7 ) is parallel to the vertical axis.
Aspect 73: Tailpiece ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to any of aspects 70 to 72, wherein a twist of the last member ( 7 ) is counteracted by a plug receptacle of the member ( 7 ) on the cylindrical section ( 166 ) of the connection element ( 16 ) is pushed.
Aspect 74: Tailpiece ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) two spaced apart (eg at least 1 cm, at least 2 cm or at least 3 cm apart) projections or pins (e.g. 36 ) having.
Aspect 75: Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 71, wherein the projections or pins ( 36 ) extend substantially along a common expansion line, wherein the expansion line is preferably parallel to the horizontal plane.
Aspect 76: Tailpiece ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 74 or 75, wherein under the projections or pins ( 36 ) a recess ( 38 ) is provided, wherein the recess ( 38 ) preferably in and / or through the legs ( 12 ).
Aspect 77: Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 76, wherein the recess ( 38 ) is designed so that a part of the last member ( 7 ) can be introduced therein, preferably a receptacle or a connecting element ( 107 ) of the limb ( 7 ) for the projections or pins ( 36 ), wherein the recess may optionally have a latching device to the receiving / the connecting element ( 107 ) to be locked in an inserted position in which the member is preferably rigidly fixed.
Aspect 78: Tailpiece ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein at the connecting element ( 16 ) a rod ( 40 ) is provided, which preferably extends substantially in the vertical direction.
Aspect 79: Endpiece ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 78, wherein the rod ( 40 ) is designed so that chain links can be threaded or pushed onto this.
Aspect 80: End piece according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the stand is formed by a substantially flat element.
Aspect 81: Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 80, wherein the base in plan view forms a C, O, U or horseshoe shape and / or wherein the base in plan view one or more arms is formed.
Aspect 82: Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 80 or 81, wherein the base in plan view forms a substantially closed shape.
Aspect 83: Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to aspect 81 or 82, wherein the mold has an opening for passing through cables.
Aspect 84: An end piece according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the foot is formed to include the cable lead-out member of a cable outlet.
Aspect 85: End piece according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the web ( 53 ) rests substantially flat on the ground.

As far as the preceding description uses the term "essentially", those embodiments are also included in which the respective feature is present completely or completely. The words "plurality" or "several" are in the sense of "at least two", d. H. to understand two or more. If specific values are given, these preferably also include minor deviations from these values, such as deviations of +/- 10% or +/- 5% of the respective value. Individual aspects of the invention may constitute separate inventions and thus claims. The mentioned types of attachment can be made detachable or non-detachable.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102013000905 [0014, 0069]
• DE 19963118 C1 [0030, 0066, 0077]

Claims (10)

Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) for positioning a cable chain ( 6 ) on the ground with one or more feet ( 13 . 54 ) and a connecting element ( 16 ) for the cable chain ( 6 ), whereby the tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) is designed so that underneath a free space of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm in height for receiving a Kaubelausführelements ( 9 ) of a floor outlet ( 8th ) remains. Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to claim 1, wherein the tail ( 10 . 20 . 30 ) is formed so that under the connection element ( 16 ) a clearance of at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm or at least 25 mm to the ground remains. Tail ( 10 . 20 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tail ( 10 . 20 ) at least 3 legs ( 12 ), on each of which a pedestal ( 13 ) is provided. Tail ( 10 . 20 ) according to claim 3, wherein the legs ( 12 ) star-shaped from a connecting section ( 15 ). Tail ( 10 . 20 ) according to claim 4, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) at the connecting section ( 15 ) is provided. Tail ( 10 . 20 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) in the middle between the feet ( 13 ) is arranged. Tail ( 50 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the end piece ( 30 ) at least one cantilever arm ( 53 ) from the pedestal ( 54 protruding, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) at the cantilevered end of the cantilevered arm ( 53 ) is provided. Tail ( 50 ) according to claim 7, wherein the pedestal ( 54 ) is provided by a sheet-shaped element which rests substantially flat on the ground. Tail ( 50 ) according to claim 8, wherein the pedestal ( 54 ) forms a substantially closed shape in plan view and the connecting element ( 16 ) is disposed within the substantially closed shape. Tail ( 10 . 20 . 50 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element ( 16 ) is formed so that the longitudinal axis of the last member ( 7 ) of the cable chain ( 6 ) is arranged at an angle of about 90 ° to the horizontal plane.

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