EP0861140A1 - Coupling device and rotary drive tool therefor - Google Patents

Coupling device and rotary drive tool therefor

Info

Publication number
EP0861140A1
EP0861140A1 EP96938298A EP96938298A EP0861140A1 EP 0861140 A1 EP0861140 A1 EP 0861140A1 EP 96938298 A EP96938298 A EP 96938298A EP 96938298 A EP96938298 A EP 96938298A EP 0861140 A1 EP0861140 A1 EP 0861140A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
actuator
conduit
male part
transmission means
proximal
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP96938298A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0861140B1 (en
Inventor
Franck Bonniot
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Facom SA
Original Assignee
Facom SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Facom SA filed Critical Facom SA
Publication of EP0861140A1 publication Critical patent/EP0861140A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0861140B1 publication Critical patent/EP0861140B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
    • B25B23/00—Details of, or accessories for, spanners, wrenches, screwdrivers
    • B25B23/0007—Connections or joints between tool parts
    • B25B23/0021—Prolongations interposed between handle and tool
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
    • B25B23/00—Details of, or accessories for, spanners, wrenches, screwdrivers
    • B25B23/0007—Connections or joints between tool parts
    • B25B23/0035—Connection means between socket or screwdriver bit and tool
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T403/00—Joints and connections
    • Y10T403/60—Biased catch or latch
    • Y10T403/602—Biased catch or latch by separate spring
    • Y10T403/604—Radially sliding catch

Definitions

  • Coupling device and corresponding rotary drive tool.
  • the present invention relates to a device for coupling a male part part with a female part part provided with a locking recess, of the type described in the preamble of claim 1.
  • the invention applies in particular to the coupling between an extension or a universal joint of a rotary drive tool, for example of a ratchet, and another extension, an interchangeable socket or a universal joint for screwing / unscrewing.
  • the actuator is a ring mounted to slide on the male part and connected directly to the transmission means, constituted by a central rod, by a transverse pin.
  • the transmission means constituted by a central rod, by a transverse pin.
  • the pin passes through a diametrical slot of the male part which must be sufficiently long and wide, which considerably weakens the male part.
  • the object of the invention is to provide a more robust coupling device than these known devices, while being reliable, comfortable to use and unlikely to clog.
  • the subject of the invention is a coupling device of the aforementioned type, characterized by the characterizing part of claim 1.
  • the coupling device according to the invention may have one or more of the characteristics The claims of claims 2 to 14.
  • the invention also relates to a rotary drive tool, in particular a rigid or flexible extension, a universal joint, an articulated or sliding handle or a crankshaft, comprising a part of male part whose distal end part is intended to fit into a female part of a drive member, in particular a socket, a universal joint or a rigid or flexible extension, provided with a locking recess, the part of male part comprising a coupling device as defined above.
  • FIG. 1 shows, with partial section, an extension according to the invention, associated with a socket and a tool d 'rotation drive;
  • - Figure 2 shows the same extension, with its distal end portion in section;
  • - Figure 3 shows in longitudinal section the distal end of the extension, on a larger scale, with the coupling device in the rest or locking position;
  • Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 3, but with the coupling device in the unlocked position;
  • FIGS. 5 and 7 are views similar to Figures 3 and 4 respectively but corresponding to a second embodiment;
  • - Figure 6 is a sectional view along line VI-VI of Figure 5;
  • Figures 8 and 10 are views similar to Figures 3 and 4 respectively but corresponding to a third embodiment
  • FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line IX-IX of Figure 8.
  • FIG. 11 and 13 are views analogous to Figures 3 and 4 respectively but relating to a fourth embodiment
  • FIG. 12 is a sectional view along line XII-XII of Figure 11;
  • FIG. 14 is a view similar to Figure 3 but corresponding to a fifth embodiment
  • FIG. 15 is a half-view similar to the upper part of Figure 4, but relating to the fifth embodiment
  • FIG. 16 is a view similar to Figure 3 but corresponding to a sixth embodiment
  • Figure 17 is a view similar to Figure 15 but relating to the sixth embodiment
  • FIG. 18 is a partial view in axial section of a universal joint according to the invention.
  • FIG. 19 is a partial view taken along arrow XIX of Figure 18;
  • FIG. 20 is a partial half-view in section along line XX-XX of Figure 18; and - Figures 21 to 23 are views, respec ⁇ tively similar to Figures 18 to 20, of a gimbal variant.
  • the extension 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 has the general shape of a straight bar of axis X-X, assumed to be horizontal for the convenience of the description.
  • This extension is intended to cooperate, by its proximal or rear end (on the right in FIGS. 1 and 2), with a tip 2 of a tool 3 for driving in rotation, which is for example a ratchet wrench.
  • the end piece 2 can in particular be a standardized square and is received in a conjugate axial orifice 4 of the extension.
  • the extension At its distal or front end (on the left in the drawing), the extension has a male profile of non-circular coupling 6 and is fitted with a coupling device 7.
  • Profile 6 is adapted to fit into a conjugate female profile provided in the proximal end of an interchangeable socket 8.
  • the distal end of the latter has a drive profile adapted to cooperate with the head of a member to be driven in rotation, which is typically a screw or nut.
  • the locking device 7 ( Figures 3 and
  • a central bore on the blind stage A is formed along the axis XX from the distal end of the extension. It successively includes an entrance part 9 of large diameter, an intermediate portion 10 of medium diameter, and a main portion 11 of small diameter and greater length, terminating clearly beyond the portion 6 of the extension.
  • a first radial conduit 12 connects the intermediate part 10 of the bore A to the surface of the extension and opens into a hollow region of the profile 6. The external opening of this conduit 12 is narrowed.
  • the conduit 13 is counter-bored approximately to mid-length, which defines an inner shoulder 14.
  • An actuator 15 is mounted to tilt in the conduit 13. It comprises a spherical ball joint 16 held between the shoulder 14 and a outer crimping bead 17 produced at the inlet of the conduit.
  • the ball joint 16 is extended outwards by a rework button 18, projecting from the outside surface of the extension, and inwards by a shank 19, which penetrates into the bore part 11.
  • the diameter of the tail 19 is slightly less than that of this part 11.
  • a central transmission rod T is received in the bore A.
  • a cup 26 is fixed in the inlet part 9 of the bore, and a return spring 27 is compressed between the bottom of this cup and the front end of the rod T, the stud 25 ensuring the centering of the spring.
  • a locking ball 28 is housed with a small clearance in the conduit 12 and is retained therein by the aforementioned narrowing of its opening.
  • the ball 28 is held in the external position, in which it protrudes from the extension. It is then in contact with the front end of the cam 24.
  • the rear end of the transmission rod T is then approximately at the right of the axis of the conduit 13, which pushes the tail 19 towards the back.
  • the button 18 is therefore tilted forward, as shown.
  • a recess 8A for example constituted by an O-shaped groove as shown in phantom in Figure 3, is located opposite the duct 12.
  • the spring 27 is then allowed to return the central rod T to its initial position, which brings out the ball 28 under the action of the cams 22 then 24, the ball consequently being housed in the recess 8A from the socket.
  • the coupling is then locked.
  • the actuator 15 is substantially guided laterally, so that its movement is practically limited to pitching back and forth in the common plane of the conduits 12 and 13.
  • the variations in radial clearance between the sleeve and the extension, as well as the variations in depth of the recess 8A, are automatically compensated for by the presence of the cam 24 and the spring 27 , which permanently exert an elastic stress on the ball radially outwards.
  • the locking position of the device 7 is therefore practically identical to its rest position.
  • the central bore A has a constant diameter over its entire length and extends well beyond line 13;
  • the transmission rod T successively comprises, from front to rear: a short guide section 29 of the same diameter as the bore; the unlocking section 21 of small diameter; the frustoconical cam 22, which flares rearward; the lock portion 23 of average diameter; the frustoconical cam 24, which also flares rearward; the body 20, of the same diameter as the bore, in which a groove 30 is formed near its rear end; and the pin 25 for centering the return spring 27, which is compressed between the rear part of the rod and the bottom of the bore;
  • the groove 30 is replaced by a biconical orifice 32, in the form of a diabolo, with an axis parallel to the axis of the conduit 13;
  • the tail 19 is, as in Figures 3 and 4, a cylindrical stud, and it enters the orifice 32 to beyond the general axis X-X;
  • the button 18 is replaced by another cylindrical stud 33;
  • the stud 33 is received in a recess 34 of an operating slide 35 in the form of a cylindrical sector.
  • This slide is held against the surface of the extension by the fact that its two lateral edges 36, of reduced thickness, slide in longitudinal grooves 37 ( Figure 9) of a sleeve 38 integral with the extension; and
  • the ball joint 16 of the actuator is not supported on the bead 17 but is biased towards the latter by an auxiliary spring 39 compressed between one shoulder 14 and the ball joint. This avoids any risk of play of the actuator while ensuring that it has great freedom of movement.
  • the operation is the same as that of the embodiment of Figures 5 to 7, except that the actuator is operated indirectly, via the slide 35, which is pushed forward to retract the ball.
  • the slide 35 improves the comfort of use and effectively protects the internal mechanism against the introduction of dirt.
  • the fixed sleeve 38 protects the slide against the risk of inadvertent actuation by surrounding parts when the extension is pulled back.
  • the biconical orifice 32 ensures lateral guidance of the actuator by itself, while making it possible to obtain increased axial displacement of the central rod and eliminating any play between the actuator and this rod, whatever the direction of movement.
  • the ball joint 16 is hemispherical, its radially outer part being eliminated;
  • the slide 35-sleeve assembly 38 is replaced by a sliding ring 40 which internally has the recess 34 for receiving the stud 33;
  • the ring 40 comprises a tubular body 43, of approximately constant thickness, which surrounds with a large clearance the extension and which is guided on the latter, at the front, by an internal collar 44. The latter is applies, in the rest and locking position, against a circlip 45 received in a groove 46 of the extension, adjacent to the profile 6.
  • the ring 40 is supplemented by a cylindrical ring 47 disposed between the body 43 and the extension. This ring has at the front a notch 48 receiving the stud 33 of the actuator.
  • a return spring 49 is compressed between the rear end edge of the ring 47 and a second circlip 50 received in a second groove 51 of the extension. This second circlip also constitutes a means for rear guiding the body 43.
  • the assembly 43-47 is pushed forward by the spring 49, so that the actuator 15 is tilted forward.
  • the retraction of the ball is obtained by pulling the ring body 43 backwards, which compresses the spring 49 via the ring 47.
  • the ring 40 is protected against any untimely unlocking by the sleeve itself, which has an outside diameter at least equal to that of this ring.
  • Circlip 45 also contributes to this protection.
  • the large diameter of the return spring 49 provides great locking reliability.
  • Figures 16 and 17 constitutes a variant of that of Figures 5 to 7, from which it differs by the arrangement of the actuator. In fact, the radially inner half of the ball joint 16 is eliminated, and the remaining half ball joint is biased outwards by an auxiliary spring 39.
  • Figures 18 to 20 illustrate the application of the invention to a universal joint whose male part IA is articulated, via a cross-member 1B, to the female part 1C of the universal joint.
  • the male part IA comprises a body 60 which ends in the male coupling profile 6.
  • the bore central A crosses the body right through and is counter-bored at 61 from its proximal end to a short distance from the distal radial duct 12 which receives the ball 28.
  • the body 60 ends in a face 62 roughly transverse to the axis XX and slightly concave, on which protrude two ears 63 connected to the cross 1B.
  • the central rod T is similar to that of Figures 14 and 15, except that its proximal end is full and provided with an extra thickness 64 which slides in the overbore 61.
  • the return spring 27 is compressed between this extra thickness and 1 ' bottom shoulder of the overbore.
  • the rocker 15 comprises a button 18 for direct actuation as in FIGS. 1 to 7. Its ball joint 16 is held against the shoulder 14 of the proximal radial duct 13 by a forked end branch 67 of a fixed stirrup 68 in general form of C.
  • the core 69 of this stirrup follows the face 62 of the body 60 and is guided laterally between the internal faces, flat and parallel to the axis XX and between them, with the two ears 63.
  • the two branches of end 67 and 70 of the stirrup snap into opposite recesses 71 of the body 60, each provided with an overhanging projection 72 at their proximal end.
  • the notch 73 of the fork 67 has a U shape with two parallel edges and laterally guides the button 18, which is cylindrical.
  • the rocker 15 has a single degree of freedom, in rotation about the axis of the ball joint 16 which is perpendicular to the axis XX.
  • the stirrup 68 goes around the body 60. It comprises a flat core 80 provided with an oblong hole 81 which laterally guides the cylindrical button 18, this core 80 being applied to a flat face 82 of the body 60.
  • the legs of the stirrup are positioned by lateral recesses 83 of the body 60, in which they are received.
  • the free ends of these branches are applied to a flat face 84 of the body 60 opposite to the face 82.
  • a plug 85 closes the proximal end of the overbore 61.
  • the socket 8 can be replaced by any other member or tool having a similar female part, for example by a universal joint or by an extension (rigid or flexible).
  • extension 1 can of course be replaced by any other member or tool having a similar male part, in particular by a universal joint, by an extension (rigid or flexible), by an articulated handle, by a crankshaft or by a sliding handle.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
  • Portable Nailing Machines And Staplers (AREA)
  • Manipulator (AREA)
  • Finish Polishing, Edge Sharpening, And Grinding By Specific Grinding Devices (AREA)
  • Constituent Portions Of Griding Lathes, Driving, Sensing And Control (AREA)
  • Gripping On Spindles (AREA)
  • Power Steering Mechanism (AREA)
  • Moulding By Coating Moulds (AREA)
  • Pivots And Pivotal Connections (AREA)
  • Mutual Connection Of Rods And Tubes (AREA)

Abstract

Locking/unlocking is controlled by an axial rod (T) sliding in a central bore (A) in a male portion (1). The movement of the rod is controlled by a pivoting member (15). The device is particularly suitable for coupling extensions to sockets.

Description

Dispositif d'accouplement, et outil d'entraînement en rotation correspondant. Coupling device, and corresponding rotary drive tool.
La présente invention est relative à un dispositif d'accouplement d'une partie de pièce mâle avec une partie de pièce femelle munie d'un evidement de verrouillage, du type décrit dans le préambule de la revendication 1.The present invention relates to a device for coupling a male part part with a female part part provided with a locking recess, of the type described in the preamble of claim 1.
L'invention s'applique en particulier à l'accouplement entre une rallonge ou un cardan d'outil d'entraînement en rotation, par exemple de clé à cliquet, et une autre rallonge, une douille interchangeable ou un cardan de vissage/dévissage.The invention applies in particular to the coupling between an extension or a universal joint of a rotary drive tool, for example of a ratchet, and another extension, an interchangeable socket or a universal joint for screwing / unscrewing.
Dans des dispositifs d'accouplement connus du type ci-dessus (voir par exemple le US-A-1 864 466) , l'actionneur est une bague montée coulissante sur la pièce mâle et reliée directement aux moyens de transmis- sion, constitués par une tige centrale, par une goupille transversale. Pour permettre la transmission des efforts ainsi que le mouvement, la goupille traverse une fente diamétrale de la pièce mâle qui doit être suffisamment longue et large, ce qui affaiblit considérablement la pièce mâle.In known coupling devices of the above type (see for example US-A-1 864 466), the actuator is a ring mounted to slide on the male part and connected directly to the transmission means, constituted by a central rod, by a transverse pin. To allow the transmission of forces as well as the movement, the pin passes through a diametrical slot of the male part which must be sufficiently long and wide, which considerably weakens the male part.
L'invention a pour but de fournir un disposi¬ tif d'accouplement plus robuste que ces dispositifs connus, tout en étant fiable, d'un maniement confortable et peu susceptible de s'encrasser. A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un dispositif d'accouplement du type précité, caractérisé par la partie caractérisante de la revendication 1.The object of the invention is to provide a more robust coupling device than these known devices, while being reliable, comfortable to use and unlikely to clog. To this end, the subject of the invention is a coupling device of the aforementioned type, characterized by the characterizing part of claim 1.
Le dispositif d'accouplement suivant 1 ' invention peut comporter une ou plusieurs des caracté- ristiques des revendications 2 à 14.The coupling device according to the invention may have one or more of the characteristics The claims of claims 2 to 14.
L'invention a également pour objet un outil d'entraînement en rotation, notamment une rallonge rigide ou flexible, un cardan, une poignée articulée ou coulis- santé ou un vilebrequin, comprenant une partie de pièce mâle dont la partie d'extrémité distale est destinée à s'emboîter dans une partie femelle d'un organe d'entraînement, notamment d'une douille, d'un cardan ou d'une rallonge rigide ou flexible, munie d'un evidement de verrouillage, la partie de pièce mâle comprenant un dispositif d'accouplement tel que défini ci-dessus.The invention also relates to a rotary drive tool, in particular a rigid or flexible extension, a universal joint, an articulated or sliding handle or a crankshaft, comprising a part of male part whose distal end part is intended to fit into a female part of a drive member, in particular a socket, a universal joint or a rigid or flexible extension, provided with a locking recess, the part of male part comprising a coupling device as defined above.
Des exemples de réalisation de l'invention vont maintenant être décrits en regard des dessins annexés, sur lesquels : - la Figure 1 représente, avec coupe par¬ tielle, une rallonge conforme à l'invention, associée à une douille et à un outil d'entraînement en rotation;Examples of embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: - Figure 1 shows, with partial section, an extension according to the invention, associated with a socket and a tool d 'rotation drive;
- la Figure 2 représente la même rallonge, avec sa partie d'extrémité distale en coupe; - la Figure 3 représente en coupe longitudi¬ nale l'extrémité distale de la rallonge, à plus grande échelle, avec le dispositif d'accouplement en position de repos ou de verrouillage;- Figure 2 shows the same extension, with its distal end portion in section; - Figure 3 shows in longitudinal section the distal end of the extension, on a larger scale, with the coupling device in the rest or locking position;
- la Figure 4 est une vue analogue à la Figure 3, mais avec le dispositif d'accouplement en position de déverrouillage;- Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 3, but with the coupling device in the unlocked position;
- les Figures 5 et 7 sont des vues analogues respectivement aux Figures 3 et 4 mais correspondant à un deuxième mode de réalisation; - la Figure 6 est une vue prise en coupe suivant la ligne VI-VI de la Figure 5;- Figures 5 and 7 are views similar to Figures 3 and 4 respectively but corresponding to a second embodiment; - Figure 6 is a sectional view along line VI-VI of Figure 5;
- les Figures 8 et 10 sont des vues analogues respectivement aux Figures 3 et 4 mais correspondant à un troisième mode de réalisation;- Figures 8 and 10 are views similar to Figures 3 and 4 respectively but corresponding to a third embodiment;
- la Figure 9 est une vue prise en coupe suivant la ligne IX-IX de la Figure 8;- Figure 9 is a sectional view taken along line IX-IX of Figure 8;
- les Figures 11 et 13 sont des vues analo¬ gues respectivement aux Figures 3 et 4 mais relatives à un quatrième mode de réalisation;- Figures 11 and 13 are views analogous to Figures 3 and 4 respectively but relating to a fourth embodiment;
- la Figure 12 est une vue prise en coupe suivant la ligne XII-XII de la Figure 11;- Figure 12 is a sectional view along line XII-XII of Figure 11;
- la Figure 14 est une vue analogue à la Figure 3 mais correspondant à un cinquième mode de réalisation;- Figure 14 is a view similar to Figure 3 but corresponding to a fifth embodiment;
- la Figure 15 est une demi-vue analogue à la partie supérieure de la Figure 4, mais relative au cinquième mode de réalisation;- Figure 15 is a half-view similar to the upper part of Figure 4, but relating to the fifth embodiment;
- la Figure 16 est une vue analogue à la Figure 3 mais correspondant à un sixième mode de réalisa¬ tion;- Figure 16 is a view similar to Figure 3 but corresponding to a sixth embodiment;
- la Figure 17 est une vue analogue à la Figure 15 mais relative au sixième mode de réalisation;- Figure 17 is a view similar to Figure 15 but relating to the sixth embodiment;
- la Figure 18 est une vue partielle en coupe axiale d'un cardan conforme à l'invention;- Figure 18 is a partial view in axial section of a universal joint according to the invention;
- la Figure 19 est une vue partielle prise suivant la flèche XIX de la Figure 18;- Figure 19 is a partial view taken along arrow XIX of Figure 18;
- la Figure 20 est une demi-vue partielle en coupe suivant la ligne XX-XX de la Figure 18; et - les Figures 21 à 23 sont des vues, respec¬ tivement analogues aux Figures 18 à 20, d'une variante de cardan.- Figure 20 is a partial half-view in section along line XX-XX of Figure 18; and - Figures 21 to 23 are views, respec¬ tively similar to Figures 18 to 20, of a gimbal variant.
La rallonge 1 représentée aux Figures 1 et 2 a la forme générale d'une barre rectiligne d'axe X-X, supposé horizontal pour la commodité de la description. Cette rallonge est destinée à coopérer, par son extrémité proximale ou arrière (à droite sur les Figures 1 et 2) , avec un embout 2 d'un outil 3 d'entraînement en rotation, qui est par exemple une clé à cliquet. L'embout 2 peut notamment être un carré normalisé et est reçu dans un orifice axial conjugué 4 de la rallonge. Une bille 5 de l'embout, chargée par un ressort, s 'encliquette alors dans un evidement correspondant prévu dans l'orifice 4. A son extrémité distale ou avant (à gauche sur le dessin) , la rallonge présente un profil mâle d'accouplement 6 non circulaire et est munie d'un dispositif d'accouplement 7. Le profil 6 est adapté pour s'emboîter dans un profil femelle conjugué prévu dans l'extrémité proximale d'une douille interchangeable 8. L'extrémité distale de cette dernière présente un profil d'entraînement adapté pour coopérer avec la tête d'un organe à entraîner en rotation, qui est typiquement une vis ou un écrou. Le dispositif de verrouillage 7 (Figures 3 etThe extension 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 has the general shape of a straight bar of axis X-X, assumed to be horizontal for the convenience of the description. This extension is intended to cooperate, by its proximal or rear end (on the right in FIGS. 1 and 2), with a tip 2 of a tool 3 for driving in rotation, which is for example a ratchet wrench. The end piece 2 can in particular be a standardized square and is received in a conjugate axial orifice 4 of the extension. A ball 5 of the end piece, loaded by a spring, then engages in a corresponding recess provided in the orifice 4. At its distal or front end (on the left in the drawing), the extension has a male profile of non-circular coupling 6 and is fitted with a coupling device 7. Profile 6 is adapted to fit into a conjugate female profile provided in the proximal end of an interchangeable socket 8. The distal end of the latter has a drive profile adapted to cooperate with the head of a member to be driven in rotation, which is typically a screw or nut. The locking device 7 (Figures 3 and
4) est constitué de la manière suivante.4) is constituted in the following manner.
Un alésage central étage borgne A est ménagé suivant l'axe X-X à partir de l'extrémité distale de la rallonge. Il comprend successivement une partie d'entrée 9 de grand diamètre, une partie intermédiaire 10 de diamètre moyen, et une partie principale 11 de petit diamètre et de plus grande longueur, se terminant nettement au-delà de la partie 6 de la rallonge. Un premier conduit radial 12 relie la partie intermédiaire 10 de l'alésage A à la surface de la rallonge et débouche dans une région en creux du profil 6. L'ouverture extérieure de ce conduit 12 est rétrécie. Un second conduit radial 13 , coplanaire au conduit 12 et situé du même côté de l'axe X-X, relie la partie 11 de l'alésage central, au voisinage de son extrémité proxi¬ male, à la surface de la partie courante de la rallonge. Le conduit 13 est contre-alésé à peu près jusqu'à mi- longueur, ce qui définit un épaulement intérieur 14. Un actionneur 15 est monté basculant dans le conduit 13. Il comprend une rotule sphérique 16 maintenue entre 1 ' épaulement 14 et un bourrelet extérieur de sertissage 17 réalisé à l'entrée du conduit. La rotule 16 se prolonge vers l'extérieur par un bouton de raa- noeuvre 18, en saillie par rapport à la surface exté¬ rieure de la rallonge, et vers l'intérieur par une queue 19, qui pénètre dans la partie d'alésage 11. Le diamètre de la queue 19 est légèrement inférieur à celui de cette partie 11. Une tige de transmission centrale T est reçue dans l'alésage A. Elle est constituée, d'arrière vers l'avant, d'un corps principal 20 coulissant dans la partie d'alésage 11, d'un tronçon de déverrouillage 21 de petit diamètre, d'une première came tronconique 22 s'évasant vers l'avant, d'un tronçon de verrouillage 23 de diamètre intermédiaire, d'une seconde came tronconiqueA central bore on the blind stage A is formed along the axis XX from the distal end of the extension. It successively includes an entrance part 9 of large diameter, an intermediate portion 10 of medium diameter, and a main portion 11 of small diameter and greater length, terminating clearly beyond the portion 6 of the extension. A first radial conduit 12 connects the intermediate part 10 of the bore A to the surface of the extension and opens into a hollow region of the profile 6. The external opening of this conduit 12 is narrowed. A second radial duct 13, coplanar with the duct 12 and located on the same side of the axis XX, connects the part 11 of the central bore, in the vicinity of its proxi¬ male end, to the surface of the current part of the extension . The conduit 13 is counter-bored approximately to mid-length, which defines an inner shoulder 14. An actuator 15 is mounted to tilt in the conduit 13. It comprises a spherical ball joint 16 held between the shoulder 14 and a outer crimping bead 17 produced at the inlet of the conduit. The ball joint 16 is extended outwards by a rework button 18, projecting from the outside surface of the extension, and inwards by a shank 19, which penetrates into the bore part 11. The diameter of the tail 19 is slightly less than that of this part 11. A central transmission rod T is received in the bore A. It is made up, from rear to front, of a main body 20 sliding in the bore part 11, an unlocking section 21 of small diameter, a first frustoconical cam 22 flaring forward, a locking section 23 of intermediate diameter, a second frustoconical cam
24 s'évasant également vers l'avant, et d'un téton axial24 also flaring forward, and an axial stud
25 de petit diamètre. Une coupelle 26 est fixée dans la partie d'entrée 9 de l'alésage, et un ressort de rappel 27 est comprimé entre le fond de cette coupelle et l'extrémité avant de la tige T, le téton 25 assurant le centrage du ressort . Une bille de verrouillage 28 est logée avec un faible jeu dans le conduit 12 et est retenue dans celui-ci par le rétrécissement précité de son ouverture.25 of small diameter. A cup 26 is fixed in the inlet part 9 of the bore, and a return spring 27 is compressed between the bottom of this cup and the front end of the rod T, the stud 25 ensuring the centering of the spring. A locking ball 28 is housed with a small clearance in the conduit 12 and is retained therein by the aforementioned narrowing of its opening.
Au repos (Figure 3) , sous l'action du ressortAt rest (Figure 3), under the action of the spring
27 et des cames 22 et 24, la bille 28 est maintenue en position extérieure, dans laquelle elle fait saillie hors de la rallonge. Elle est alors en contact avec l'extrémité avant de la came 24. L'extrémité arrière de la tige de transmission T se trouve alors à peu près au droit de l'axe du conduit 13, ce qui repousse la queue 19 vers l'arrière. Le bouton 18 est donc basculé vers 1 ' avant, comme représenté .27 and cams 22 and 24, the ball 28 is held in the external position, in which it protrudes from the extension. It is then in contact with the front end of the cam 24. The rear end of the transmission rod T is then approximately at the right of the axis of the conduit 13, which pushes the tail 19 towards the back. The button 18 is therefore tilted forward, as shown.
Pour pouvoir introduire la rallonge dans la douille 8, il faut tout d'abord permettre à la bille 28 de s'escamoter dans le conduit 12. Pour cela, l'opérateur tire vers lui le bouton 18 (flèche F de la Figure 4) , de sorte que la queue 19 pousse vers l'avant sur la tranche d'extrémité de la tige T, en comprimant le ressort 27. Ce déplacement amène le tronçon de déverrouillage 21 en regard du conduit 12 (Figure 4) , ce qui permet l'escamotage complet de la bille.To be able to introduce the extension into the socket 8, it is first necessary to allow the ball 28 to retract into the duct 12. For this, the operator pulls the button 18 towards him (arrow F in FIG. 4) , so that the tail 19 pushes forward on the end edge of the rod T, compressing the spring 27. This movement brings the unlocking section 21 opposite the conduit 12 (Figure 4), which allows the complete retraction of the ball.
Lorsque la partie 6 de la rallonge a pénétré dans la douille sur une distance prédéterminée par une butée appropriée, un evidement 8A, par exemple constitué par une gorge torique comme représenté en traits mixtes sur la Figure 3, se trouve en regard du conduit 12. En relâchant le bouton 18, on permet alors au ressort 27 de ramener la tige centrale T dans sa position initiale, ce qui fait ressortir la bille 28 sous l'action des cames 22 puis 24, la bille se logeant par conséquent dans 1 ' evidement 8A de la douille. L'accouplement est alors verrouillé.When the part 6 of the extension has penetrated into the socket over a predetermined distance by an appropriate stop, a recess 8A, for example constituted by an O-shaped groove as shown in phantom in Figure 3, is located opposite the duct 12. By releasing the button 18, the spring 27 is then allowed to return the central rod T to its initial position, which brings out the ball 28 under the action of the cams 22 then 24, the ball consequently being housed in the recess 8A from the socket. The coupling is then locked.
Il est à noter que grâce à la faible diffé¬ rence de diamètre entre la queue 19 et la partie d'alésage 11, l'actionneur 15 est sensiblement guidé latéralement, de sorte que son mouvement est pratiquement limité à un tangage avant-arrière dans le plan commun des conduits 12 et 13. De plus, les variations de jeu radial entre la douille et la rallonge, ainsi que les variations de profondeur de 1 'evidement 8A, sont automatiquement compensées grâce la présence de la came 24 et du ressort 27, lesquels exercent en permanence une sollicitation élastique de la bille radialement vers l'extérieur. La position de verrouillage du dispositif 7 est donc pratiquement identique à sa position de repos.It should be noted that thanks to the small difference in diameter between the shank 19 and the bore part 11, the actuator 15 is substantially guided laterally, so that its movement is practically limited to pitching back and forth in the common plane of the conduits 12 and 13. In addition, the variations in radial clearance between the sleeve and the extension, as well as the variations in depth of the recess 8A, are automatically compensated for by the presence of the cam 24 and the spring 27 , which permanently exert an elastic stress on the ball radially outwards. The locking position of the device 7 is therefore practically identical to its rest position.
Le mode de réalisation des Figures 5 à 7 diffère du précédent par les points suivants :The embodiment of Figures 5 to 7 differs from the previous one in the following points:
- 1 ' alésage central A a un diamètre constant sur toute sa longueur et se prolonge nettement au-delà du conduit 13 ;- the central bore A has a constant diameter over its entire length and extends well beyond line 13;
- la tige de transmission T comporte succes¬ sivement, d'avant en arrière : un court tronçon de guidage 29 de même diamètre que l'alésage; le tronçon de déverrouillage 21 de petit diamètre; la came tronconique 22, qui s'évase vers l'arrière; le tronçon de verrouil¬ lage 23 de diamètre moyen; la came tronconique 24, qui s'évase également vers l'arrière; le corps 20, de même diamètre que l'alésage, dans lequel une gorge 30 est ménagée près de son extrémité arrière; et le téton 25 de centrage du ressort de rappel 27, lequel est comprimé entre la partie arrière de la tige et le fond de 1 ' alésage;- The transmission rod T successively comprises, from front to rear: a short guide section 29 of the same diameter as the bore; the unlocking section 21 of small diameter; the frustoconical cam 22, which flares rearward; the lock portion 23 of average diameter; the frustoconical cam 24, which also flares rearward; the body 20, of the same diameter as the bore, in which a groove 30 is formed near its rear end; and the pin 25 for centering the return spring 27, which is compressed between the rear part of the rod and the bottom of the bore;
- la queue 19 de l'actionneur est fourchue et est reçue dans la gorge 30 en chevauchant le tronçon de petit diamètre 31 de la tige qui est délimité par cette gorge .- The tail 19 of the actuator is forked and is received in the groove 30 by overlapping the small diameter section 31 of the rod which is delimited by this groove.
Il résulte de cet agencement que dans la position de repos ou de verrouillage (Figure 5) , la tige de transmission est poussée vers l'avant par le ressort 27, ce qui coince la bille 28 entre l'ouverture rétrécie du conduit 12 et le sommet de la came 24. La queue 19 est alors poussée vers l'avant par la paroi arrière de la gorge 30, de sorte que le bouton 18 est basculé vers l'arrière.It follows from this arrangement that in the rest or locking position (Figure 5), the transmission rod is pushed forward by the spring 27, which wedges the ball 28 between the narrowed opening of the conduit 12 and the top of the cam 24. The tail 19 is then pushed forward by the rear wall of the groove 30, so that the button 18 is tilted backwards.
Pour permettre l'escamotage de la bille 28, l'opérateur pousse vers l'avant le bouton 18, de sorte que la queue 19 de l'actionneur tire la tige centrale vers l'arrière en comprimant le ressort 27. Le verrouil- lage s'obtient comme précédemment en relâchant simplement le bouton 18.To allow retraction of the ball 28, the operator pushes the button 18 forward, so that the tail 19 of the actuator pulls the central rod backwards by compressing the spring 27. The lock lage is obtained as before by simply releasing button 18.
Il est à noter que le guidage latéral de l'actionneur est obtenu, dans ce mode de réalisation, grâce à la forme fourchue de la queue 19.It should be noted that the lateral guidance of the actuator is obtained, in this embodiment, thanks to the forked shape of the tail 19.
Le mode de réalisation des Figures 8 à 10 diffère du précédent par les points suivants :The embodiment of Figures 8 to 10 differs from the previous one in the following points:
- la gorge 30 est remplacée par un orifice biconique 32, en forme de diabolo, d'axe parallèle à l'axe du conduit 13;- The groove 30 is replaced by a biconical orifice 32, in the form of a diabolo, with an axis parallel to the axis of the conduit 13;
- la queue 19 est, comme aux Figures 3 et 4, un téton cylindrique, et elle pénètre dans l'orifice 32 jusqu'au-delà de l'axe général X-X;- the tail 19 is, as in Figures 3 and 4, a cylindrical stud, and it enters the orifice 32 to beyond the general axis X-X;
- le bouton 18 est remplacé par un autre téton cylindrique 33;- The button 18 is replaced by another cylindrical stud 33;
- le téton 33 est reçu dans un evidement 34 d'un coulisseau de manoeuvre 35 en forme de secteur cylindrique. Ce coulisseau est maintenu contre la surface de la rallonge par le fait que ses deux bords latéraux 36, d'épaisseur réduite, coulissent dans des rainures longitudinales 37 (Figure 9) d'un manchon 38 solidaire de la rallonge; et- The stud 33 is received in a recess 34 of an operating slide 35 in the form of a cylindrical sector. This slide is held against the surface of the extension by the fact that its two lateral edges 36, of reduced thickness, slide in longitudinal grooves 37 (Figure 9) of a sleeve 38 integral with the extension; and
- la rotule 16 de l'actionneur ne s'appuie par sur le bourrelet 17 mais est sollicitée vers celui-ci par un ressort auxiliaire 39 comprimé entre 1 ' épaulement 14 et la rotule. Ceci évite tout risque de jeu de l'actionneur tout en assurant à celui-ci une grande liberté de mouvement.- The ball joint 16 of the actuator is not supported on the bead 17 but is biased towards the latter by an auxiliary spring 39 compressed between one shoulder 14 and the ball joint. This avoids any risk of play of the actuator while ensuring that it has great freedom of movement.
Le fonctionnement est le même que celui du mode de réalisation des Figures 5 à 7, à ceci près que la manoeuvre de l'actionneur s'effectue indirectement, via le coulisseau 35, que l'on pousse vers l'avant pour escamoter la bille. Le coulisseau 35 améliore le confort d'utilisation et protège efficacement le mécanisme interne contre l'introduction de salissures. De plus, le manchon fixe 38 protège le coulisseau contre le risque d'actionnement intempestif par des pièces environnantes lorsque la rallonge est tirée vers l'arrière. II faut également noter que l'orifice biconique 32 assure de lui-même le guidage latéral de l'actionneur, tout en permettant d'obtenir un déplacement axial accru de la tige centrale et en supprimant tout jeu entre l'actionneur et cette tige, quel que soit le sens de déplacement.The operation is the same as that of the embodiment of Figures 5 to 7, except that the actuator is operated indirectly, via the slide 35, which is pushed forward to retract the ball. The slide 35 improves the comfort of use and effectively protects the internal mechanism against the introduction of dirt. In addition, the fixed sleeve 38 protects the slide against the risk of inadvertent actuation by surrounding parts when the extension is pulled back. It should also be noted that the biconical orifice 32 ensures lateral guidance of the actuator by itself, while making it possible to obtain increased axial displacement of the central rod and eliminating any play between the actuator and this rod, whatever the direction of movement.
Le mode de réalisation des Figures 11 à 13 diffère du précédent par les points suivants :The embodiment of Figures 11 to 13 differs from the previous one in the following points:
- la rotule 16 est hémisphérique, sa partie radialement extérieure étant supprimée; - l'ensemble coulisseau 35-manchon 38 est remplacé par une bague coulissante 40 qui présente intérieurement 1 'evidement 34 de réception du téton 33; et- the ball joint 16 is hemispherical, its radially outer part being eliminated; - The slide 35-sleeve assembly 38 is replaced by a sliding ring 40 which internally has the recess 34 for receiving the stud 33; and
- un circlips 41, reçu dans une gorge 42 de la rallonge et adjacent à l'extrémité arrière de la bague- A circlip 41, received in a groove 42 of the extension and adjacent to the rear end of the ring
40 dans la position de repos et de verrouillage, protège cette bague contre le risque d'actionnement intempestif précité .40 in the rest and locking position, protects this ring against the aforementioned risk of untimely actuation.
Le mode de réalisation des Figures 14 et 15 diffère du précédent par les points suivants :The embodiment of Figures 14 and 15 differs from the previous one in the following points:
- de la portée 29 de la tige centrale à son corps 20, on trouve successivement, d'avant vers l'arrière, la came 24, le tronçon de verrouillage 23, la came 22 et le tronçon de déverrouillage 21;- From the bearing 29 of the central rod to its body 20, there are successively, from front to rear, the cam 24, the locking section 23, the cam 22 and the unlocking section 21;
- le téton 25 de la tige centrale et le ressort 27 sont supprimés;- the stud 25 of the central rod and the spring 27 are eliminated;
- la bague 40 comprend un corps tubulaire 43, d'épaisseur à peu près constante, qui entoure avec un large jeu la rallonge et qui est guidé sur celle-ci, à l'avant, par une collerette intérieure 44. Cette dernière s'applique, dans la position de repos et de verrouillage, contre un circlips 45 reçu dans une gorge 46 de la rallonge, adjacente au profil 6. La bague 40 est com- plétée par un anneau cylindrique 47 disposé entre le corps 43 et la rallonge. Cet anneau présente à l'avant une encoche 48 recevant le téton 33 de l'actionneur. Un ressort de rappel 49 est comprimé entre la tranche d'extrémité arrière de l'anneau 47 et un second circlips 50 reçu dans une seconde gorge 51 de la rallonge. Ce second circlips constitue également un moyen de guidage arrière du corps 43.- The ring 40 comprises a tubular body 43, of approximately constant thickness, which surrounds with a large clearance the extension and which is guided on the latter, at the front, by an internal collar 44. The latter is applies, in the rest and locking position, against a circlip 45 received in a groove 46 of the extension, adjacent to the profile 6. The ring 40 is supplemented by a cylindrical ring 47 disposed between the body 43 and the extension. This ring has at the front a notch 48 receiving the stud 33 of the actuator. A return spring 49 is compressed between the rear end edge of the ring 47 and a second circlip 50 received in a second groove 51 of the extension. This second circlip also constitutes a means for rear guiding the body 43.
Ainsi, en position de repos ou de verrouil¬ lage, l'ensemble 43-47 est poussé vers l'avant par le ressort 49, de sorte que l'actionneur 15 est basculé vers l'avant. L'escamotage de la bille s'obtient en tirant vers l'arrière le corps de bague 43, ce qui comprime le ressort 49 via l'anneau 47.Thus, in the rest or locking position, the assembly 43-47 is pushed forward by the spring 49, so that the actuator 15 is tilted forward. The retraction of the ball is obtained by pulling the ring body 43 backwards, which compresses the spring 49 via the ring 47.
Il est à noter que la bague 40 est protégée contre tout déverrouillage intempestif par la douille elle-même, qui possède un diamètre extérieur au moins égal à celui de cette bague. Le circlips 45 contribue également à cette protection. Par ailleurs, le grand diamètre du ressort de rappel 49 procure une grande fiabilité au verrouillage.It should be noted that the ring 40 is protected against any untimely unlocking by the sleeve itself, which has an outside diameter at least equal to that of this ring. Circlip 45 also contributes to this protection. Furthermore, the large diameter of the return spring 49 provides great locking reliability.
Le mode de réalisation des Figures 16 et 17 constitue une variante de celui des Figures 5 à 7, dont il diffère par l'agencement de l'actionneur. En effet, la moitié radialement intérieure de la rotule 16 est supprimée, et la demi-rotule restante est sollicitée vers l'extérieur par un ressort auxiliaire 39.The embodiment of Figures 16 and 17 constitutes a variant of that of Figures 5 to 7, from which it differs by the arrangement of the actuator. In fact, the radially inner half of the ball joint 16 is eliminated, and the remaining half ball joint is biased outwards by an auxiliary spring 39.
Par suite, au repos comme en position de verrouillage, la demi-rotule s'applique contre le bourrelet de sertissage 17, et la queue 19 se termine en dehors de l'alésage central A. Il n'y a donc aucun contact entre cette queue et la tige centrale T, de sorte qu'un basculement intempestif de l'actionneur n'a aucune action sur la tige centrale. Pour permettre l'escamotage de la bille, il faut basculer le bouton 18 vers l'arrière, puis l'enfoncer pour introduire la queue 19 dans la gorge 30, puis le basculer vers l'avant (Figure 17) .As a result, at rest as in the locking position, the semi-ball joint presses against the crimping flange 17, and the shank 19 ends outside the central bore A. There is therefore no contact between this tail and central rod T, so that an inadvertent tilting of the actuator has no action on the central rod. To allow the retraction of the ball, the button 18 must be tilted backwards, then depressed to introduce the tail 19 into the groove 30, then tilt it forward (Figure 17).
Les Figures 18 à 20 illustrent l'application de l'invention à un cardan dont la partie mâle IA est articulée, via un croisillon 1B, à la partie femelle 1C du cardan.Figures 18 to 20 illustrate the application of the invention to a universal joint whose male part IA is articulated, via a cross-member 1B, to the female part 1C of the universal joint.
La partie mâle IA comprend un corps 60 qui se termine par le profil mâle d'accouplement 6. L'alésage central A traverse le corps de part en part et est contre-alésé en 61 de son extrémité proximale jusqu'à une courte distance du conduit radial distal 12 qui reçoit la bille 28. Du côté proximal, le corps 60 se termine par une face 62 à peu près transversale à l'axe X-X et légèrement concave, sur laquelle font saillie deux oreilles 63 reliées au croisillon 1B.The male part IA comprises a body 60 which ends in the male coupling profile 6. The bore central A crosses the body right through and is counter-bored at 61 from its proximal end to a short distance from the distal radial duct 12 which receives the ball 28. On the proximal side, the body 60 ends in a face 62 roughly transverse to the axis XX and slightly concave, on which protrude two ears 63 connected to the cross 1B.
La tige centrale T est analogue à celle des Figures 14 et 15, à ceci près que son extrémité proximale est pleine et pourvue d'une surépaisseur 64 qui coulisse dans le suralésage 61. Le ressort de rappel 27 est comprimé entre cette surépaisseur et 1 'épaulement de fond du suralésage.The central rod T is similar to that of Figures 14 and 15, except that its proximal end is full and provided with an extra thickness 64 which slides in the overbore 61. The return spring 27 is compressed between this extra thickness and 1 ' bottom shoulder of the overbore.
Le basculeur 15 comporte un bouton 18 d'actionnement direct comme aux Figures 1 à 7. Sa rotule 16 est maintenue contre 1 ' épaulement 14 du conduit radial proximal 13 par une branche d'extrémité fourchue 67 d'un étrier fixe 68 en forme générale de C. L'âme 69 de cet étrier épouse la face 62 du corps 60 et est guidée latéralement entre les faces internes, planes et parallè¬ les à l'axe X-X et entre elles, des deux oreilles 63. Les deux branches d'extrémité 67 et 70 de 1 ' étrier s 'encliquettent dans des évidements opposés 71 du corps 60, munis chacun d'une saillie en surplomb 72 à leur extrémité proximale.The rocker 15 comprises a button 18 for direct actuation as in FIGS. 1 to 7. Its ball joint 16 is held against the shoulder 14 of the proximal radial duct 13 by a forked end branch 67 of a fixed stirrup 68 in general form of C. The core 69 of this stirrup follows the face 62 of the body 60 and is guided laterally between the internal faces, flat and parallel to the axis XX and between them, with the two ears 63. The two branches of end 67 and 70 of the stirrup snap into opposite recesses 71 of the body 60, each provided with an overhanging projection 72 at their proximal end.
L'encoche 73 de la fourche 67 a une forme en U à deux bords parallèles et guide latéralement le bouton 18, qui est cylindrique. Ainsi, le basculeur 15 possède un unique degré de liberté, en rotation autour de l'axe de la rotule 16 qui est perpendiculaire à l'axe X-X.The notch 73 of the fork 67 has a U shape with two parallel edges and laterally guides the button 18, which is cylindrical. Thus, the rocker 15 has a single degree of freedom, in rotation about the axis of the ball joint 16 which is perpendicular to the axis XX.
On remarque qu'un tel dispositif de verrouil¬ lage 7 n'allonge pratiquement pas la longueur hors-tout du cardan. La variante des Figures 21 à 23 diffère de la précédente par le fait que l'étrier 68 fait le tour du corps 60. Il comporte une âme plane 80 munie d'un trou oblong 81 qui guide latéralement le bouton cylindrique 18, cette âme 80 étant appliquée sur une face plane 82 du corps 60. Les branches de l'étrier sont positionnées par des évidements latéraux 83 du corps 60, dans lesquels elles sont reçues. Les extrémités libres de ces branches s'appliquent sur une face plane 84 du corps 60 opposée à la face 82. De plus, dans l'exemple représenté, un bouchon 85 obture l'extrémité proximale du suréalésage 61.It is noted that such a locking device 7 practically does not lengthen the overall length of the gimbal. The variant of Figures 21 to 23 differs from the previous one in that the stirrup 68 goes around the body 60. It comprises a flat core 80 provided with an oblong hole 81 which laterally guides the cylindrical button 18, this core 80 being applied to a flat face 82 of the body 60. The legs of the stirrup are positioned by lateral recesses 83 of the body 60, in which they are received. The free ends of these branches are applied to a flat face 84 of the body 60 opposite to the face 82. In addition, in the example shown, a plug 85 closes the proximal end of the overbore 61.
Dans tous les modes de réalisation, la douille 8 peut être remplacée par tout autre organe ou outil disposant d'une partie femelle similaire, par exemple par un cardan ou par une rallonge (rigide ou flexible) .In all embodiments, the socket 8 can be replaced by any other member or tool having a similar female part, for example by a universal joint or by an extension (rigid or flexible).
De plus, la rallonge 1 peut être bien entendu remplacée par tout autre organe ou outil disposant d'une partie mâle similaire, notamment par un cardan, par une rallonge (rigide ou flexible) , par une poignée articulée, par un vilebrequin ou par une poignée coulissante. In addition, the extension 1 can of course be replaced by any other member or tool having a similar male part, in particular by a universal joint, by an extension (rigid or flexible), by an articulated handle, by a crankshaft or by a sliding handle.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS 1 - Dispositif d'accouplement d'une partie de pièce mâle (1) avec une partie de pièce femelle (8) munie d'un evidement de verrouillage (8A) , du type dans lequel la partie mâle comprend : CLAIMS 1 - Device for coupling a male part part (1) with a female part part (8) provided with a locking recess (8A), of the type in which the male part comprises:
(a) un alésage central (A) sensiblement axial dans lequel débouchent deux conduits (12, 13) qui le relient à la surface extérieure de la partie mâle, à savoir un conduit distal (12) et un conduit proximal (13) ;(a) a central bore (A) substantially axial into which two conduits (12, 13) open which connect it to the exterior surface of the male part, namely a distal conduit (12) and a proximal conduit (13);
(b) un verrou (28) adapté pour se déplacer dans le conduit distal (12) entre une position de verrouillage, dans lequel il fait saillie par rapport à la partie mâle (1) et peut alors être reçu dans 1 ' evidement (8A) de la partie femelle (8) , et une position escamotée;(b) a lock (28) adapted to move in the distal conduit (12) between a locking position, in which it projects relative to the male part (1) and can then be received in the recess (8A ) of the female part (8), and a retracted position;
(c) des moyens de transmission (T) adaptés pour se déplacer dans l'alésage (A) entre une position de verrouillage et une position de déverrouillage et dont une partie d'extrémité distale (21 à 24) coopère avec le verrou; et(c) transmission means (T) adapted to move in the bore (A) between a locking position and an unlocking position and of which a distal end portion (21 to 24) cooperates with the lock; And
(d) un actionneur (15) monté mobile dans le conduit proximal (13) et coopérant avec une partie d'extrémité proximale des moyens de transmission (T) ; caractérisé en ce que l'actionneur (15) possède une position active, suivant l'axe du conduit proximal (13) , dans laquelle il provoque le déplacement des moyens de transmission (T) par basculement essentiel¬ lement dans un plan radial autour d'un axe perpendicu- laire à l'axe (X-X) de l'alésage central (A) .(d) an actuator (15) mounted movably in the proximal conduit (13) and cooperating with a proximal end portion of the transmission means (T); characterized in that the actuator (15) has an active position, along the axis of the proximal conduit (13), in which it causes the movement of the transmission means (T) by tilting essentially in a radial plane around 'a perpendicular axis lar to the axis (XX) of the central bore (A).
2 - Dispositif suivant la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que l'actionneur (15) est maintenu en permanence dans ladite position active. 2 - Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the actuator (15) is permanently maintained in said active position.
3 - Dispositif suivant la revendication 1 ou3 - Device according to claim 1 or
2, caractérisé en ce que l'actionneur (15) présente un bouton de manoeuvre (18) en saillie par rapport à la partie mâle (1) .2, characterized in that the actuator (15) has an operating button (18) projecting relative to the male part (1).
4 - Dispositif suivant la revendication 3 lorsqu'elle dépend de la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que l'actionneur (15) est sollicité vers une position inactive, espacée des moyens de transmission (T) , par un ressort auxiliaire (39) qui prend appui sur un épaulement intérieur (14) du conduit proximal (13) . 4 - Device according to claim 3 when it depends on claim 1, characterized in that the actuator (15) is biased towards an inactive position, spaced from the transmission means (T), by an auxiliary spring (39) which rests on an interior shoulder (14) of the proximal conduit (13).
5 - Dispositif suivant la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que l'actionneur (15) présente une saillie de manoeuvre (33) engagée dans un organe de manoeuvre (35; 40) qui coiffe l'ouverture du conduit proximal (13) . 5 - Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the actuator (15) has an operating projection (33) engaged in an operating member (35; 40) which covers the opening of the proximal conduit (13).
6 - Dispositif suivant la revendication 5, caractérisé en ce que l'organe de manoeuvre (35) est un coulisseau guidé sur la partie mâle (1) .6 - Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the operating member (35) is a slide guided on the male part (1).
7 - Dispositif suivant la revendication 5, caractérisé en ce que l'organe de manoeuvre (40) est une bague montée à coulissement sur la partie mâle (1) .7 - Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the operating member (40) is a ring slidably mounted on the male part (1).
8 - Dispositif suivant l'une quelconque des revendications 5 à 7, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens (38; 41) de protection de l'organe de ma¬ noeuvre (35; 40) contre son actionnement intempestif par l'environnement, au moins dans le sens du retrait de la partie mâle (1) par rapport à la partie femelle (8) .8 - Device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that it comprises means (38; 41) for protecting the operating member (35; 40) against its untimely actuation by the environment, at least in the direction of withdrawal of the male part (1) relative to the female part (8).
9 - Dispositif suivant l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3 et 5 à 8, caractérisé en ce que l'actionneur (15) est positionné entre un épaulement intérieur (14) du conduit proximal (13) et des moyens (17) de rétrécissement de l'ouverture de ce conduit.9 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 to 8, characterized in that the actuator (15) is positioned between an interior shoulder (14) of the proximal conduit (13) and means (17) of narrowing of the opening of this conduit.
10 - Dispositif suivant l'une quelconque des revendications 5 à 8, caractérisé en ce que l'actionneur (15) est sollicité vers l'ouverture du conduit proximal par un ressort auxiliaire (39) qui prend appui sur un épaulement intérieur (14) de ce conduit.10 - Device according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the actuator (15) is biased towards the opening of the proximal conduit by an auxiliary spring (39) which is supported on an internal shoulder (14) of this conduit.
11 - Dispositif suivant l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens de guidage latéral de l'extrémité radialement intérieure (19) de l'actionneur (15) dans la position active de celui-ci.11 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises means for lateral guiding of the radially inner end (19) of the actuator (15) in the active position thereof .
12 - Dispositif suivant la revendication 11, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de guidage latéral comprennent un perçage biconique (32) ménagé dans les moyens de transmission (T) .12 - Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the lateral guide means comprise a biconical drilling (32) formed in the transmission means (T).
13 - Dispositif suivant l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend en outre un ressort (27; 49) de rappel des moyens de transmission (T) vers leur position de verrouillage.13 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that it further comprises a spring (27; 49) for returning the transmission means (T) to their locking position.
14 - Dispositif suivant l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 13, caractérisé en ce que l'actionneur14 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the actuator
(15) comporte une partie formant rotule (16) autour de laquelle il est adapté pour basculer. 15 - Outil (1) d'entraînement en rotation, notamment rallonge rigide ou flexible, cardan, poignée articulée ou coulissante ou vilebrequin, comprenant une partie de pièce mâle (1) dont la partie d'extrémité distale (6) est destinée à s'emboîter dans une partie de pièce femelle d'un organe d'entraînement (8) , notamment d'une douille, d'un cardan ou d'une rallonge rigide ou flexible, munie d'un evidement de verrouillage (8A) , la partie de pièce mâle comprenant un dispositif d'accouplement (7) suivant l'une quelconque des revendi¬ cations 1 à 14. (15) has a ball joint portion (16) around which it is adapted to tilt. 15 - Rotation drive tool (1), in particular rigid or flexible extension, universal joint, articulated or sliding handle or crankshaft, comprising a male part part (1) whose distal end part (6) is intended to be 'fit into a part of a female part of a drive member (8), in particular a socket, a cardan or a rigid or flexible extension, provided with a locking recess (8A), the part of a male part comprising a coupling device (7) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.
EP96938298A 1995-11-14 1996-11-12 Coupling device and rotary drive tool therefor Expired - Lifetime EP0861140B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9513485 1995-11-14
FR9513485A FR2741123B1 (en) 1995-11-14 1995-11-14 COUPLING DEVICE AND CORRESPONDING ROTATION DRIVE TOOL
PCT/FR1996/001783 WO1997018061A1 (en) 1995-11-14 1996-11-12 Coupling device and rotary drive tool therefor

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0861140A1 true EP0861140A1 (en) 1998-09-02
EP0861140B1 EP0861140B1 (en) 1999-06-16

Family

ID=9484553

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP96938298A Expired - Lifetime EP0861140B1 (en) 1995-11-14 1996-11-12 Coupling device and rotary drive tool therefor

Country Status (10)

Country Link
US (1) US6062112A (en)
EP (1) EP0861140B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2000500075A (en)
CN (1) CN1059375C (en)
AT (1) ATE181273T1 (en)
AU (1) AU7577096A (en)
DE (1) DE69602968T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2135260T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2741123B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1997018061A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6386789B1 (en) * 1999-09-24 2002-05-14 Paul D. Chausse Quick release ball type locking pin and production tool
US6327941B1 (en) * 2000-05-08 2001-12-11 Chin-Shun Cheng Socket wrench extension structure
US6672183B2 (en) * 2001-04-20 2004-01-06 Theodore L. Johnson Quick release for use with impact wrench
DE20209159U1 (en) 2002-06-12 2002-08-29 Wille Gmbh & Co Quick lock for extensions of plug-in tools
US6799919B2 (en) 2002-12-04 2004-10-05 Ryeson Corporation Coupling with enhanced concentricity maintainability and torque handling capability
DE20220042U1 (en) * 2002-12-20 2004-05-06 Kuka Schweissanlagen Gmbh Spindle extension for assembly supports in motor vehicle construction has spring-loaded centering mounting for spindle shaft and with spindle-symmetrical circumferential side cone on spindle shaft
US20040126182A1 (en) * 2002-12-27 2004-07-01 Yu-Cheng Lin Connector
EP1457292A1 (en) * 2003-02-18 2004-09-15 Hand Tool Design Corporation Tool bit/handle connector
US7225709B2 (en) * 2005-02-28 2007-06-05 I-He Liao Control device for connector for securing socket thereon
DE102006026532A1 (en) * 2006-06-06 2007-12-13 Moll Maschinenbau Gmbh Rapid tool changer, especially for screwdriver tool, has latching connection formed between connecting element and coupling element in tensionally strong manner
DE102007025078A1 (en) * 2007-05-30 2008-12-04 Wera Werk Hermann Werner Gmbh & Co. Kg Torque transmission device with switchable detent ball
DE102008064424B4 (en) * 2008-12-22 2010-11-25 Medica-Medizintechnik Gmbh Plug-in coupling device
US7895924B2 (en) * 2009-01-19 2011-03-01 Chih-Ching Hsieh Socket connection device
BR112013027097B8 (en) * 2011-04-20 2022-12-27 Brian Investiments Pty Ltd PIN WITHOUT NUT
TW201244886A (en) * 2011-05-06 2012-11-16 Hou-Fei Hu Fast-releasing screwdriver transmission shaft
US20130192860A1 (en) 2011-06-24 2013-08-01 Black & Decker Inc. Electromagnetic mode change mechanism for power tool
US9364942B2 (en) * 2011-06-24 2016-06-14 Black & Decker Inc. Quick release socket attachment for impact wrench
TW201350290A (en) * 2012-06-14 2013-12-16 Hong Ann Tool Ind Co Ltd Quick release coupling rod dedicated for pneumatic tool
US9669526B2 (en) * 2014-01-07 2017-06-06 Ingersoll-Rand Company Tools with socket retainers
ES2546228B1 (en) * 2015-05-14 2016-04-21 Seat, S.A. Connection system between a first and a second part of a vehicle, and a tool for unlocking said connection system
US9810506B2 (en) * 2016-01-13 2017-11-07 Smith & Wesson Corp. Self-captured detent mechinism
CN105619300B (en) * 2016-02-25 2017-10-31 中山诺顿科研技术服务有限公司 Multifunctional wrench
US11078642B2 (en) 2018-07-11 2021-08-03 Cnh Industrial America Llc Coupler push down eject lever

Family Cites Families (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0053215B1 (en) * 1980-11-29 1984-06-06 Losenhausen Maschinenbau AG& Co Kommanditgesellschaft Adjusting device
US4571113A (en) * 1984-03-27 1986-02-18 Coren Alfred S Locking joints
US4848196A (en) * 1984-10-23 1989-07-18 Roberts Peter M Quick release and automatic positive locking mechanism for socket wrenches and extension bars for socket wrenches
IT8521924V0 (en) * 1985-05-23 1985-05-23 Fata Europ Group REMOVABLE CONNECTION JOINT BETWEEN A DRIVING SHAFT AND A DRIVEN SHAFT.
US4721022A (en) * 1986-01-27 1988-01-26 Vsi Corporation Wrenching tool
GB8900904D0 (en) * 1989-01-16 1989-03-08 Latchways Ltd Releasable coupling or attachment device
US5090257A (en) * 1990-05-09 1992-02-25 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army Automatic isokinetic aerosol sampling system
GB2257647B (en) * 1991-07-17 1994-06-15 Chiro Tool Mfg Corp Retainer apparatus for a wrench unit
US5291809A (en) * 1992-03-02 1994-03-08 Fox Iii Leonard J Locking adapter for socket wrench
DE4207605C1 (en) * 1992-03-10 1993-09-30 Lorenz Stoeger Pneumatic screwdriver with blade coupling inside rotary cylinder - has front cylinder-section movable in relation to rear containing coupling to allow rearwards extraction of released blade
US5390571A (en) * 1993-03-05 1995-02-21 Fox, Iii; Leonard J. Push button socket locking mechanism
US5433548A (en) * 1993-09-22 1995-07-18 Roberts Tool International (Usa), Inc. Universal joint for torque transmitting tools
EP0747174B1 (en) * 1995-05-30 1997-03-26 Jessie Chow Coupling mechanism of socket wrench extension

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO9718061A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE69602968D1 (en) 1999-07-22
ES2135260T3 (en) 1999-10-16
AU7577096A (en) 1997-06-05
DE69602968T2 (en) 2000-02-17
FR2741123B1 (en) 1998-01-30
WO1997018061A1 (en) 1997-05-22
US6062112A (en) 2000-05-16
EP0861140B1 (en) 1999-06-16
ATE181273T1 (en) 1999-07-15
JP2000500075A (en) 2000-01-11
CN1059375C (en) 2000-12-13
FR2741123A1 (en) 1997-05-16
CN1202124A (en) 1998-12-16

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0861140B1 (en) Coupling device and rotary drive tool therefor
EP2024219B1 (en) System for locking a first shaft with respect to a second shaft eliminating clearances between said shafts
EP2439440B1 (en) Coupling device with locking by threaded clamps and coupling including such a device
FR2779374A1 (en) DRIVE TOOL WITH LOCKING MECHANISM
EP2587109A1 (en) Connecting device
EP0706442B1 (en) Tightening tool such as a screwdriver
EP2986803B1 (en) Cutting insert
EP1375072A2 (en) Torque tool, especially wrench, with snap means for adjusting the torque
EP0384087B1 (en) Rivet and tool for the fixation of such rivet
EP1677991A2 (en) Writing instrument with a lateral button
FR2866045A1 (en) Control knob for safety lock of e.g. protective barrier, has spring supported between core and casing through antifriction stop, and two locking units that are engaged to integrate casing and core for controlling opening of lock
FR2786423A1 (en) HYDRAULIC WORKPIECE TOOL
FR2705606A1 (en) Device for the articulated joining together of a handle and a blade in particular
EP0770745B1 (en) Detachable handle for a door or a window especially in metallic frame
EP3885592A1 (en) Arrangement for blind mounting of a brake cable on an actuating lever of a motor vehicle drum brake
EP4059468B1 (en) Device to assist with the machining of a dental prosthesis blank
FR2796261A1 (en) Router for medullary canal in joint surgery has handle with router head connected by pins fitting into guide sleeves
FR3139711A1 (en) Interchangeable handle of a surgical tool
EP3471919A1 (en) Quick-release setting tool for an element to be crimped
EP2792838B1 (en) Cutting plate
FR2475448A1 (en) TIGHTENING KEY FOR CHUCK TOOL HOLDER
FR2739048A1 (en) SOLIDARIZATION DEVICE BY SNAPPING A TOOL ON A HANDLE
FR2883210A1 (en) Mandrel for holding tool, e.g. drill bit, for turning machine, includes central piece having holding jaws and rear operating collar with blocked relative rotation and axial translation
FR3082130A1 (en) DRILLING DEVICE INCLUDING AN IMPROVED AXIAL IMMOBILIZATION SYSTEM
CH650388A5 (en) Bracelet

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19980416

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19981015

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: THE PATENT HAS BEEN ANNULLED BY A DECISION OF A NATIONAL AUTHORITY

Effective date: 19990616

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19990616

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19990616

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19990616

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19990616

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 181273

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19990715

Kind code of ref document: T

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 19990629

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 69602968

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19990722

ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed

Owner name: GUZZI E RAVIZZA S.R.L.

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: FRENCH

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19990916

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19990916

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2135260

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991112

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991112

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19991130

NLV1 Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act
PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: FACOM

Effective date: 19991130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20000531

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20011016

Year of fee payment: 6

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20021017

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20021105

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20021108

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20021112

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20021130

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20021130

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031112

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20031113

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20040602

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20031112

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20040730

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20031113

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES;WARNING: LAPSES OF ITALIAN PATENTS WITH EFFECTIVE DATE BEFORE 2007 MAY HAVE OCCURRED AT ANY TIME BEFORE 2007. THE CORRECT EFFECTIVE DATE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THE ONE RECORDED.

Effective date: 20051112