RU2805598C2 - Hybrid guidepath loop for large console areas and, in particular, separator cheek for it - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: electrical engineering.

SUBSTANCE: guidepath loop contains chain links with chain plates located opposite each other in the lateral direction. The chain has two side rows of plates. Each row contains plates, which are connected together with the possibility of rotation relative to each other in the longitudinal direction, and each having the first and the second areas of overlap, and side parts made of plastic, which respectively have two end areas. The chain plates are made of a stronger or stiffer material than the sidepieces. In a part of each row of plates, successive chain plates have through holes in the first and the second overlapping areas. The through holes of the two successive plates partially overlap. In the specified part associated with each second chain plate, there is a side part, which, in its two end regions has protrusions, with which the side part interacts through both areas of overlap of the chain plate associated with it, and the side part with protrusions of each end region interacts through overlapping through holes of the mating chain plate and, respectively, of the adjacent chain plate.

EFFECT: increased loop strength.

23 cl, 12 dwg

Description

The present invention generally relates to a power chain guide for dynamically guiding supply lines, such as cables, hoses or the like, between two connecting points, at least one of which is movable. The energy guide chain, also called the traction chain or cable carrier, serves, in particular, to protect the guide lines from unwanted loads.

The present invention relates, in particular, to a guide energy chain that is displaceable in one plane, for example horizontally or perpendicularly, and has two sections and a direction change area located between them with a certain radius of curvature. In this arrangement, the movable section must be capable of displacement or expansion to a greater length in an unsupported or self-supporting relationship. Applications with long self-supporting sections, including relatively low dynamic loads or low displacement frequencies, are, for example, telescopic booms, lifting platforms, construction equipment and so on.

Energy chain guides typically have chain links with laterally opposed chain plates. The chain plates are connected together in a rotatable manner relative to each other to form lateral rows of plates in the longitudinal direction and accordingly overlap with one of the two overlap areas. The chain links form a receiving area in which the supply lines are guided and held.

The material of the chain plates is decisive for the properties of the guiding energy chain. Depending on the relevant requirements of the application, either chain plates are used made of metal, such as steel or aluminum, or, more commonly, chain plates are made of plastic, usually in the form of injection molded parts containing a thermoplastic polymer, possibly reinforced with fibres. .

Chain plates made of metal can withstand very high tensile forces and have a high level of mechanical strength, in particular high bending strength with a high level of rigidity. This is particularly useful in applications involving long self-supporting sections, that is, sections of chain that are not supported and have a large self-supporting extent, but metal chain plates result in, among other things, a relatively high dead weight of the energy guide chain, and they do not allow achieve the freedom of design configuration that is possible with plastic chain plates, which are mainly produced by injection molding.

Plastic chain plates are easier to manufacture and can absorb high impact forces without permanent deformation due to their high elasticity compared to metal. However, due to elasticity or a comparatively lower elastic modulus, very long self-supporting sections can generally only be realized with plastic chain plates using relatively large wall thicknesses.

There is already a recognized need for the properties of metal and plastic chain plates to be advantageously combined in energy guide chains in order to utilize the respective required advantages of both types of plates. A guide energy chain containing components made of different materials that transmit force through rows of plates containing, for example, plastic and metal will be referred to herein as a hybrid guide energy chain.

WO 2017/136827 A1 and US 9803721 B2 propose a guide energy chain which, thanks to the doubling of rows of plates on each side, has a row of plates containing side parts made of plastic and, in addition to these, a row of plates containing chain plates of steel leaf. The plastic side pieces or chain plates in this case have a cranked configuration with laterally offset overlap areas which contain cooperating stops for limiting the angle of rotation and receiving means for a separate rotation pin. The stops of the plastic plates are sized so that they come into action before the stops of the metal plates rest against each other. The steel sheet chain plates are arranged in alternating inner and outer plates, each of the inner plates having two overlap areas with projections representing so-called male connectors, and each of the outer plates having two overlap areas with holes representing so-called female connectors. connectors. Consequently, each chain link contains four side parts, namely two plates of plastic and two plates of metal, these plates being connected by means of threaded cross jaws or rods. As a consequence, the design disclosed in WO 2017/136827 A1 is very complex and expensive. The complexity and cost in terms of material and assembly corresponds to the total complexity of the two guiding energy circuits. In addition, for each required radius on the direction change arc, four matching components are correspondingly required. Accordingly, the dead weight is comparatively high due to the double number of plates, which, among other things, conflicts with the task of providing long self-supporting sections.

DE 10012298 A1 discloses a guide energy chain which has chain plates made of metal that are rotatably connected to each other. Each chain plates are connected in their overlap areas by means of a plastic side piece. In the overlap area, the chain plates have corresponding through holes, with which the protrusions of the corresponding mating side part interact to set the rotation axis and the permissible rotation angle. The diameter of the round plastic side part in this case corresponds to the surface area of the overlap area of the attached metal chain plates. Accordingly, the weight of the chain is reduced compared to WO 2017/136827 A1, but the weak point is the mechanical connection of the chain plates via plastic side parts. To provide protection against lateral detachment, an additional metal bushing with a flange is proposed, which results in additional material and assembly costs. A similar guiding energy chain with holes in the chain plates and projections on the round limiting discs is described in DE 3121912 A1, but without specifying the material.

Another previously proposed solution is the hybrid energy guide circuit disclosed in DE 197 07 966 A1 or US 6 161 372. This arrangement uses special chain plates having a lamellar core with a core casing at least partially surrounding it. The core is made of a material that has higher strength compared to the core shell. The advantages of, for example, metal plates and plastic plates can be combined in the same chain plate, meaning that duplication of chain plates is not required. The chain plates, which themselves have a hybrid structure, are respectively connected by means of two complementary connecting parts made of plastic. DE 10343263 A1 also proposes a chain plate with a high-strength core. These two designs are significant improvements in terms of dead weight compared to those previously mentioned. However, the production costs in the case of such hybrid chain plates are relatively high, for example an additional coating process must be provided. In addition, the assembly complexity and costs are similar to those of conventional metal plates, that is, higher than would normally be possible with plastic chain plates.

Therefore, taking as a basic starting point the above-mentioned state of the art in this field, the first object of the present invention is to provide such a hybrid energy chain guide that combines the advantages of plastic chain plates and chain plates made of a material with higher strength, wherein said energy guide circuit would be such that it can be manufactured from a small number of individual parts or with a high degree of modularity and/or low assembly costs. This problem is solved in the first aspect of the present invention by using the guide energy chain according to claim 1 and the chain link according to claim 17. The two guide energy chains should also have a low dead weight.

Moreover, in a further aspect, a further independent object is to provide a new separating jaw for the energy chain guide, which could be used as a protection against unwanted detachment of the cross bars. This task, regardless of the type of energy chain guide, is achieved by the separating jaw according to claim 18. However, this separating jaw is particularly suitable for energy chain guide according to the first aspect of the present invention.

FIRST ASPECT (HYBRID GUIDING ENERGY CIRCUIT)

According to a first aspect of the present invention, in the general type energy chain guide described in the preamble of claim 1, the first problem is already solved by the fact that successive chain plates containing a material with comparatively high strength and/or high rigidity, in particular with comparatively higher modulus of elasticity, are respectively equipped with through holes in both overlap areas, wherein it is additionally provided that for each second of said chain plates there is provided a side part made of plastic, respectively having protrusions in both end areas with which it (the plate) interacts via overlapping through holes of two corresponding chain plates, more specifically a mating chain plate and, accordingly, a subsequent chain plate adjacent to the corresponding end region.

Thus, the projections of the first end region of the side portion can interact through the through holes in the first overlap region of the mating chain plate, and the projections of the second overlap region of the side portion can interact through the holes in the second overlap region of the mating chain plate. In this arrangement, the side portion with its projections may connect a chain plate mating to the side portion, in its first overlap region, to a first chain plate adjacent within the row of plates, and in its second overlap region, to a second chain plate adjacent within the row of plates. The projections of the side part can interact with both overlap areas respectively through the through holes of the second chain plates, namely the mating chain plate and the chain plate adjacent to it within the row of plates. Thus, each side part is rotatably interconnected with three chain plates, which occurs sequentially in a row of plates. In this case, the two corresponding chain plates of the three chain plates are rotatable relative to the side part, since the chain plate associated with the said side part is connected to the side part in both of its overlap areas.

In this case, the side part is not able to rotate relative to the mating chain plate through the two overlap areas with which it interacts. This, among other things, allows for a more stable and less sensitive articulated joint.

Each link joint can be formed, in particular, by means of a corresponding overlap region of a chain plate as an overlap region of another chain plate and one of two end regions of a side part, said side part being associated with one of the two connected chain plates. The other chain plate may be positioned such that one of its two overlap areas is between the end region of the side portion and the one chain plate to which the side portion is mated.

The dimension along the length of the plastic side part in the longitudinal direction of a row of plates or guide energy chain is at least equal to the chain pitch (the gap between the hinge or link axes in the longitudinal direction). The base area of the plastic side portion (in side view) may preferably substantially correspond to the base area of the chain plates, but this is not necessary. The base area of the plastic side part can be chosen to be somewhat smaller, for example so much so that the metal chain plates rest with their narrow sides on the contact or supporting surfaces. Preferably, the base area of the side portion is >50% of the base area of the chain plate.

Thus, chain plates containing material with higher strength and/or higher flexural rigidity may have through holes or enclosing connecting areas in their overlap regions for connecting the plates, said holes serving solely as receiving means, thereby providing the possibility of obtaining a particularly simple design for said chain plates, in particular in the form of identical parts. In contrast, the side parts of the plates can have a more complex geometric shape with extending projections which, as male connecting elements, connect the chain plates together through through holes or female connecting areas. In this way, the design configuration is optimally adapted to production processes that are already proven and tested, and there is no need for special technologies such as coating procedures.

In this regard, according to the present invention, the side portion projections are provided to limit the relative rotation angle between successive chain plates or to provide a pivotal rotation connection between successive chain plates or, more preferably, for both of the above-mentioned purposes.

Therefore, the structure proposed according to the present invention, with side parts made of plastic, in addition to chain plates containing another material with higher strength and/or higher modulus of elasticity, must be provided at least in the longitudinal part of the guide energy chain or each row of plates, particularly in the critical region which, in the case of a section which is self-supporting in normal operation, is subject to the highest loads or deforming forces. However, for the sake of simplicity, the rows of plates can be predominantly or entirely manufactured using the proposed hybrid structure to eliminate special transition parts.

The high mechanical strength of chain plates makes it possible to obtain very long self-supporting sections with relatively low wall thickness, as can be achieved with chains containing metal plates. In this case, the chain plates can have a particularly simple design, which is particularly inexpensive to produce and yet still has high strength. Chain plates can in particular be designed exclusively with female connectors, that is, for example, without protruding parts to create a node connection. The total relative area of the holes in this case, due to the high strength, may well be >40%, in particular in the range from 40% to 60%, of the total base area (defined by the outer contour) of the chain plate, that is, the dead weight is further reduced.

On the other hand, the side parts made of plastic make it possible to use the required properties of conventional chain plates in the guide energy chain or chain links. The side plates may, in particular, have a more complex geometric shape, allowing simple, fast and possibly tool-free assembly.

By using successive chain plates containing a material with higher strength or rigidity by means of plastic side parts, it is also possible to reduce the number of required components and assembly steps compared to the above-mentioned state of the art.

The modulus of elasticity (also called E-modulus, coefficient of elasticity or Young's modulus) of the chain plate material should be preferably at least three times, preferably at least five times, preferably at least ten times greater than the modulus of elasticity material of the side parts, to achieve an acceptable increase in self-supporting length compared to plastic side parts. The elastic modulus of the chain plate material can be, for example, >50 MPa, preferably >70 MPa. In comparison, side part plastics, such as glass fiber reinforced polyamide, can have a modulus of <10 MPa. The transmission of force is carried out by means of chain plates with high strength, only by means of protrusions or male connectors of the side parts made of plastic. Accordingly, only said plastic protrusions need to be of appropriate dimensions to be strong enough to function, in particular to be resistant to shearing action. The plastic protrusions, which interact through said holes, act as stops, also allowing for increased smoothness of operation compared to conventional chains containing metal plates. Side parts made of plastic, despite their more complex geometric shape, can be produced at a lower cost and in a lightweight structure, in particular using injection molding.

The side portions may optionally be made of fibre-reinforced plastic.

The plastic side parts are not actually chain plates, since no tensile or axial forces must be transmitted through their main body. However, they provide the opportunity to achieve the typical advantages of plastic plates, in particular low noise levels at the stops and a high level of design freedom for required functional features, such as locking or snap connections. This can therefore be used to make the individual chain links as simple as possible and also to enable their installation in a small number of working steps. The increased costs for the side parts are only marginally higher than the cost of producing typical link joints and crossbar fixings, as is typically the case with standard metal plates, or perhaps they could be even lower. In addition, it is preferable to provide side parts made of plastic only for every second chain plate containing a material with high rigidity.

In addition to the projections or male connecting components on the side parts, the number of which (protrusions or components) corresponds to the number of holes in the chain plates, various additional functional areas can be provided with a low level of complexity and low manufacturing costs. In this way, the connection to the cross bars or cross members for forming box-shaped chain links can be ensured, for example, only on the side parts. As a result, it is possible to produce particularly simple chain plates, for example as inexpensive stamped parts from sheet steel, in a small number of production steps.

In a preferred embodiment, at least in a critical longitudinal section of the guide energy chain, all of at least the chain plates or side parts, preferably both, are constructed with a structurally identical basic shape. Thus, in principle, each row of plates can be made from only two different components, namely the chain plates and the side parts. To make closed chain links, in the simplest case, initially only one transverse rod is required, selected according to the required chain width.

In a preferred embodiment, at least in a critical longitudinal section of the energy chain guide, all chain plates and side parts, in their main plane perpendicular to the hinge axes, have a substantially identical outer contour or a substantially identical perimeter, in particular the perimeter of the corresponding circle, oval or ellipse.

In their overlap areas, each of the chain plates in the simplest embodiment has at least two generally arcuate through holes, which are located around the pivot axis and which, for example, can be shaped like a sector of a circular disk. The protrusions of the side portion interact through said openings so as to limit the angle of rotation, and the end regions of the protrusions abut the corresponding abutment surfaces of the counter protrusions to limit the relative angle of rotation. In this case, it is possible to limit the angle of rotation in both directions - in the direction of the maximum angle of rotation on the arc of change of direction and in the direction of the minimum angle of rotation in a straight-line position (to form a straight, in particular self-supporting, section) to the same extent or on both sides using the same ledge. Thus, said abutment protrusion can in particular have two abutment surfaces which face in opposite directions from each other and which, in the direction of rotation, interact on both sides with the separating ends of the holes. The abutment surfaces are preferably in the form of flat, level surfaces.

Regulation of the required radius on the arc of direction change is carried out by limiting the angle of rotation. In the case of the design according to the present invention, all the required radii can be achieved, in particular, by selecting the dimensions of the corresponding projections on the side parts, that is, different limits of the angle in the inclined position are possible with the same chain plate. By changing the angle by means of different side parts, it is possible to use one chain plate as an identical part, or it is possible to use a small number of chain plates for the entire design range. This makes it possible to produce chain plates in larger quantities more efficiently.

Additionally or alternatively, each of the chain plates in both overlap areas may also have a circular through hole at a centric relation to the desired axis of rotation. A corresponding protrusion in a pin configuration on the plastic side portion can then engage said hole to form a rotatable link joint between successive chain plates. This connecting projection can serve as a pin for a typical rotary connection with the receiving means and pin, that is, it does not have stop surfaces to limit the angle of rotation. However, this rotary connection can alternatively be realized separately by means of a suitable arc shape for the stop projections and a corresponding shape for the holes functioning as a stop, in order to further simplify the design of the side parts. In both embodiments, each of the side parts has projections that are suitable for providing a hinge connection, in particular abutment projections and/or connecting projections, in both end regions, or for providing two hinge connections, which occur sequentially in the longitudinal direction.

Particularly preferably, all of the side parts have the same design and/or are made as one piece or as a single unit, in particular as a one-piece material made of the same plastic.

In this case, each lateral portion with respect to the mating chain plate can correspondingly at least partially overlap with two chain plates adjacent to those that overlap the overlap areas.

In a preferred embodiment, all chain plates and side parts have outer contours that are substantially congruent with each other. This makes it possible, among other things, to achieve improved rolling characteristics along the direction arc section.

Particularly preferably, the chain plates have the shape of flat components without a cranked configuration or offset. Preferably, the chain plates are made in one piece with one-piece material or monolithically from only one material, which allows for significantly simpler and more efficient production compared to the hybrid chain plates disclosed in DE 197 07 966 A1.

The main body may have a relatively thin-walled design since it does not have to transmit any tensile/axial forces.

The chain plates can in particular be made of metal sheet, for example stainless steel sheet. As an alternative to steel or steel alloys, chain plates can also be made of aluminum or aluminum alloys. Alternatively, high strength chain plates, for example with a modulus of elasticity or elasticity >70 MPa, can also be made of a composite fiber material, for example glass fiber reinforced plastic or carbon fiber reinforced plastic. In principle, a non-oxidizing material is preferred. The chain plates are preferably designed as flat components with a constant component thickness. For example, chain plates can be produced in large quantities as flat stamped parts or by other machining or cutting operations, such as from steel strip or steel plate. The wall thickness or chain plate thickness is preferably constant and is preferably <10 mm and preferably in the range of about 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably from about 2 mm to 4 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the chain plates are arranged in such a way that they are alternately offset laterally relative to each other, that is, the inner and outer chain plates of each line are alternated or arranged in series. In this case, the chain plates can overlap, in particular exclusively or only on one side, by their overlap areas. In other words, in each row of plates only two separate chain plates made of high-strength material always overlap. Accordingly, bifurcated chain plates containing two separate parts are not used, resulting in lower manufacturing costs, assembly costs, and weight.

Preferably, in this case, the side parts are respectively located on the outer side on every second chain plate. Together with the alternating arrangement of chain plates, this further simplifies assembly.

Particularly simple assembly and low-cost construction can be achieved if the connection between two rows of plates is made using cross bars exclusively by means of the side parts, that is, by means of each two opposite side parts connected together by means of cross bars. In a preferred embodiment, it is provided that at least one corresponding projecting locking pin for the cross bar is provided on the side part. The locking pin may be provided in particular on or adjacent to the narrow sides in the central region between the end regions. The locking rod can be configured to provide a rigid locking and/or positive locking connection to a suitable cross rod, in particular a design that is known per se, or a design from existing series. Preferably, two locking pins are provided on the corresponding side portion, in particular such a corresponding locking pin is provided near each narrow side. The locking pin preferably projects in the same direction as said projections and thus provides a flat outer face for the side portion. Preferably, the two outer sides or laterally opposite side portions of the chain link are connected together by two separate transverse bars which are arranged in an opposing relationship in the vertical direction, in particular to provide a box-shaped section for the chain link.

The cross bars may preferably be connected to the side part by a rigid-locking or positive-locking connection, in particular a snap connection.

In particular, in this regard, at least the connecting areas of the cross bars are made entirely or predominantly of plastic. The cross bars may comprise predominantly or entirely plastic and may be manufactured, for example, as an injection molded product. This allows for a mechanically efficient and durable connection to the plastic side parts. The cross bars and side pieces may be made of the same plastic or at least the same base polymer and possibly fiber reinforced.

Such locking pins on the side parts make it possible to realize a simple assembly of the cross bars, for example by means of a proven and reliable locking or snap connection. This makes it possible to connect, for example, side parts and mating chain links using conventional cross bars to provide box-section chain links without the use of tools. For this purpose, the transverse rods are fixed only on the fixing pins of the side parts, which, in particular, protrude further inward than the projections on the side parts. This avoids increased cost and labor costs compared to screw connections typical for metal plates. If the side parts are provided only on every second chain plate containing a stronger material, this provides a partially permanent structure with cross bars on only every second chain link and reduces weight and cost.

Particularly preferably, the transverse bars are at the same time used for lateral stable connection of adjacent chain plates, in particular as fastening means in relation to the inner chain plates relative to adjacent outer chain plates or vice versa. For this purpose, the side part locking pin can interact through a corresponding hole in a correspondingly mating chain plate, and it can project internally therethrough. In this regard, in a preferred embodiment, the corresponding hole in the side plate for the locking pin is sized to be in an aligned or conjugate relationship with it (the pin), so that the cross bars are able to rest at their end on the edge of this hole. Thus, the transverse rod has the ability to hold the mating chain plate laterally or transversely to the longitudinal direction of the energy chain guide on the corresponding side part. This allows the chain rows to be easily assembled without the use of tools and in a small number of working steps. Depending on the respective requirements, the cross bars may have support areas at the end that protrude or extend in the longitudinal direction to increase the contact area on the chain plate. The entire chain, with the exception of the end connections, can be composed of the above structure, in particular, from only three different parts, namely chain plates, side parts and cross bars, each of which can be present in identical parts. This also eliminates assembly errors and reduces manufacturing complexity.

By using cross rods to laterally secure the side part to the mating chain plate, it is possible to fasten the side part without additional connectors, in particular without connecting elements made of metal, such as screws, rivets, bolts, sleeves or the like. In this case, it is possible to eliminate such connecting elements, which are common in the current state of the art and which can weaken under the influence of vibration, and thus further reduce the weight as well as the costs of materials and assembly.

To improve the shape stability of the chain plates, or to use chain plates with a smaller wall thickness at the same self-supporting length, it is preferable to provide a stiffening area that extends transversely, or substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the plate, on at least one or, preferably on both narrow sides of the chain plates. This stiffening area is advantageous, in particular with regard to sheet metal plates, since it has a similar effect to a support flange and can be achieved without significant expense by transforming the flat base shape, for example by cutting the sheet metal, bending an edge or the like . The stiffening area serves to increase the rigidity of the chain plate, which is otherwise relatively or completely flat. Depending on the corresponding contour of the plate, relative to the longitudinal direction or in the side view, the areas of increased rigidity can have a straight or smoothly curved configuration. The dimension in the longitudinal direction of the chain perpendicular to the main plane of the plate is preferably such that the stiffening regions do not come into contact with each other at both end angular positions.

The protrusions of the side portions, which are configured to provide a connection, are preferably sized such that they protrude by an amount that is greater than or equal to twice the thickness of the plate or the thickness of the chain plate material in the overlap region. This allows the protrusions to fully interact through two chain plates which rest on each other or which overlap, possibly with a slight end protrusion. However, to prevent the presence of unwanted obstructing edges in the inner region of the chain links, said projections should preferably protrude inward to a maximum extent and have a size of less than three times the thickness of the plate. However, the preferred size is one where the ends of the lugs are flush on the inside of the inner or mating chain plate.

To increase the lateral stability of the rows of chain plates, it is preferable that at least one corresponding transverse extension is provided in each end or overlap area on at least one, on some or on each of the projections serving to limit the angle of rotation, behind which it is possible for the chain plate facing the side part to interact, that is, the directly adjacent chain plate between the side part and its associated chain plate. Therefore, in this way it is possible to ensure that the chain plate interacts behind said transverse extension on said protrusion at least when the chain plate is in a state of abutment in the direction of rotation. This provides an additional lateral holding effect and occurs in particular when the chain plate with the corresponding end region of the through holes rests on the corresponding abutment surface of the mating projections.

The mating, preferably internal, chain plate can already be held laterally on the side part by means of cross bars. Thus, said transverse extensions to ensure lateral stability on said projections can be arranged, in particular, in such a way that the interaction behind them is respectively effected by means of two chain plates that overlap with the mating chain plates. The latter are preferably respectively arranged as outer chain plates between the inner chain plate and the laterally outer side part. This means that there is no need for transverse extensions to project into the receiving space for said rows.

The chain plates are in functional cooperation with the transverse extensions for lateral stabilization, preferably when the chain plates are in a straight position, that is, in particular also in a self-supporting section. It is also possible to provide such interaction behind the transverse extensions of the thrust projections additionally or exclusively for a fully inclined rotary position.

In addition to or as an alternative to such transverse extensions, it is also possible for fastening means to prevent lateral movement, such as a locking connection, a snap connection or the like, to be provided on the pin projections to create a rotatable connection. For example, snap hooks may be provided on swivel joint projections that preferably face toward narrow sides or that do not enclose the flow of tensile/axial forces. Suitable hinge pins that snap into place with hooks or the like can, if desired, be realized as protrusions on the side using plastic injection molding, possibly without modification or machining of the more rigid chain plates. However, the transverse fastening action can also be implemented as a type of bayonet connection with corresponding adjacent chain plates.

When producing chain plates, it can also be ensured that at least one of the through holes in each overlap area of the chain plate has edge areas that are functionally shaped to limit the angle of rotation, and/or profiled edge areas that serve to provide a rotary nodal connections. This makes it possible to distribute shear forces or loads on the plastic protrusions over an area larger than the cross-sectional area of the chain plates, or to provide said protrusions in an appropriate configuration that saves material by reducing the pressure per unit surface area.

During operation, the guide energy circuit, which is preferably displaceable in plan, typically defines a first section, a second section, and a redirection region located therebetween. In this case, one section is fixed by the end region on the engaging means with a relatively movable connection point, for example using special end connecting parts.

A longitudinal portion which has a hybrid configuration according to the present invention and in which successive chain plates with through holes are provided in the first and second overlap regions and a corresponding lateral portion is associated with each second chain plate is designed to extend preferably from an end region on the engaging means within at least one third of the total length of the energy guide chain. In this region, the forces or loads, particularly in the section which is self-supporting during normal operation, are at their highest or most critical levels in the expanded state.

It should be understood that, as an alternative to the configuration according to the present invention, along only part of the length of the guide energy chain, for the sake of simplicity, both rows of plates between their end regions may contain in a continuous manner or, preferably, substantially along the entire length (except for the end regions or connecting parts) chain plates and side parts according to the present invention. In this case, all chain plates and side parts are preferably structurally identical.

The present invention also further relates to a separate chain link for energy chain guide, which has two opposing chain plates made of sheet metal with through holes in a first overlap area and through holes in a second overlap area. According to the present invention, lateral to each of the opposing chain plates is provided a side part made of plastic, which respectively has two end regions with at least one male protrusion, which interacts through a female hole in the chain plate, for the purpose of limiting rotation angle and/or to form a node connection. Preferably, a plurality of male elements or projections are provided on the side portion in each of the two end regions, which correspond to the number of through holes or female receiving means in the overlap region of the chain plate, such that a corresponding projection on each end region interacts through a mating through hole in the overlap region of the mating chain plate. chain plate.

Such a hybrid chain link can then be connected to another identical chain link on both sides using only two corresponding individual chain plates (without a side part), that is, only every second chain link has the proposed side parts. Alternatively, the chain link may contain one or more of the features described above.

Thus, as a basic idea of the first aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the side part made of plastic has in both end areas one or more male connecting elements or projections, which respectively interact with both overlap areas of the corresponding chain plate through through holes or female receiving means of both of the mating chain plate and the next chain plate for the purpose of connecting these plates together.

In this way, the side part can generally connect three consecutive plates together. In this case, the side portion may interact through the overlap regions of two successive chain plates to articulate the chain plates and/or limit their rotation angle. This makes it possible to create a structure that is particularly easy to assemble, thereby saving material and possibly reducing the number of component parts, while providing a high level of mechanical strength for the chain plates, that is, while providing long self-supporting sections.

Therefore, in particular, each side part can serve to form two hinge connections, or together with the corresponding chain plates can form two hinge connections between them. One end region of the side portion may then have a projection or projections for a first node connection, and the other end region of the side portion may have a projection or projections for an additional second node connection. In this case, each of these node connections can be formed as a result of the interaction of three regions: the end region of the side part with the projections, the overlap region with through holes of the first chain plate or chain plate with which the side part is mated, and the overlap region with through holes in the second chain plate, said projections respectively extending through holes in both chain plates. Thus, in each case, exactly one side part is preferably mated to every second chain plate, said one side part being an integral part of both node connections by which the mating chain plate is hingedly connected to two adjacent chain plates.

SECOND ASPECT (FASTENING DIVIDING JEEK)

According to a second aspect of the present invention, which is independent of the above-mentioned first aspect, there is provided a separating jaw suitable for preventing unwanted detachment or separation of two opposing cross bars or cross members of a chain link. This separating jaw can advantageously be used, in particular, but not exclusively, in guiding the energy chain according to the first aspect.

Conventional cross jaws serve to divide the internal space in chain links. They generally comprise at both ends corresponding locking regions for fixation to the crossbar or chain link and have a plate-like configuration extending in a main plane. As locking areas, known spacer jaws typically have on at least one side a locking connection that can be manually engaged and released to secure the spacer jaw to the crossbar. However, known locking connections are not strong enough to provide reliable protection against unwanted detachment of the cross bars.

DE 202015101707 U1 filed by the applicant of the present invention describes a multi-component spacer jaw for fixation between two cross bars. The parts of the separating jaw disclosed in DE 202015101707 U1 can be inserted into each other in the height direction. To separate the parts from each other, the cross rod must be opened or removed. KR 200293663 Y1 describes a two-part separating jaw, each of the two parts of which extends from one transverse rod to the other. Each part forms half of one locking area and half of another locking area for the corresponding cross bar.

According to the second aspect, a separating jaw is provided that enables a stronger connection, which is suitable for achieving a fastening effect when the cross bars are in abutting relationship on both sides. According to the second aspect, which is already implemented in that the separating jaw has a two-part configuration comprising a first part that contains at least one fastening pin projecting perpendicular to the main plane, and a second part that contains at least one receiving fastening means that made in the form of a recess perpendicular to the main plane, so that it is possible to connect or disconnect two of these parts in a direction perpendicular to their main plane.

The proposed ability to divide the separating jaw into two parts perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the guide energy chain or the main plane of the separating jaw allows for a more durable fixation on the transverse rod, which can only be turned off with high force or which cannot be turned off during operation. The cross bars are usually connected approximately in the direction of the structural height of the chain link and approximately perpendicular to the chain plates or side parts, for example, by means of a locking interaction. Thanks to the structure according to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to create a connection between the separating jaw and the crossbar, which reliably protects against shutdown in a given direction, since the separation or removal of the crossbar becomes possible only after the two-piece separating jaw is previously opened or divided laterally direction (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or the direction of attachment of the transverse rod). This makes it possible to achieve a reliable fastening action that cannot be inadvertently switched off during operation, since the two parts of the separating jaw must first be separated. This makes it possible to use the separating jaw as a mechanical protection for securing the cross bars to the chain link, in addition to the usual function of dividing the internal space in the chain.

In preferred embodiments of a two-piece spacer jaw, both parts may be identical parts and/or each of them may be manufactured as one piece.

In this regard, each part can be suitably configured with a fixing area and a body which has a fastening pin on one side and a fastening receiving means on the other side. The fastening pin is preferably located on an end region of the housing that is distant from the locking region. Accordingly, in the attached state of the separating jaw, two corresponding fastening pins can be fixed in the corresponding fastening receiving means. Each of the two parts can have, in particular, exactly one fixing region. Preferably, each locking region has a one-piece configuration. This option is especially stable.

Particularly reliable protection against unwanted detachment of the cross bars is achieved if each locking area has a frame which at least predominantly, preferably completely, extends in the peripheral direction and has an opening through which the cross bar can be inserted perpendicular to the main plane.

To provide additional protection against undesirable separation of the two parts of the separating jaw, each part in the end region opposite the locking region can have at least one extension that projects in the main plane, in particular in the longitudinal direction of the guide energy chain. Such an extension makes it possible to fasten the parts of the separating jaw together in a direction perpendicular to the main plane by means of extensions, in particular by means of a screw connection, a fastening pin or the like. The advantage of this configuration is that additional fastening means on said extensions are easily accessible from outside the chain link, even when the rows are inserted into it.

As an alternative or in addition to providing a secure connection between the two parts of the separating jaw, it can be ensured that the fastening pin is arranged to be locked onto the fastening receiving means. This can be achieved, for example, by the interaction of a locking recess and a locking tab, or by any other suitable locking or snap connection.

Accordingly, regardless of the first aspect, the present invention also relates to a separating jaw according to one of the above embodiments. They should be considered independently as being respectively essential to the present invention.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent without limiting the scope of protection from the following more detailed description or preferred embodiments given with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this regard, the drawings relating to the first aspect are given by way of example only, in which:

in Fig. 1A-1B show the straight longitudinal portion of the hybrid guide energy chain according to the present invention in the first embodiment in an assembled state (Fig. 1A) and in a partially disassembled state (Fig. 1B),

in Fig. 2A to 2D show the high strength chain plate according to the first embodiment in a perspective view (FIG. 2A), an inside side view (FIG. 2B), a plan view (FIG. 2C), and an outside side view (FIG. 2D),

in Fig. 3A to 3D show a plastic side portion according to the first embodiment in a perspective view (FIG. 3A), an inside side view (FIG. 3B), a plan view (FIG. 3C), and a bottom side view (FIG. 3D),

in Fig. 4A-4C show a first embodiment of the chain plate shown in FIG. 2A-2D, in an inside perspective view (FIG. 4A), a front view (FIG. 4B), and an outside perspective view (FIG. 4C),

in Fig. 5A-5C show a second embodiment of the chain plate shown in FIG. 2A-2D, in an inside perspective view (FIG. 5A), a front view (FIG. 5B), and an outside perspective view (FIG. 5C),

in Fig. 6A-6C show a third embodiment of the chain plate shown in FIG. 2A-2D, in an inside perspective view (FIG. 6A), a front view (FIG. 6B), and an outside perspective view (FIG. 6C), and

in Fig. 7A-7C show a perspective view of a chain plate or side piece according to a further embodiment, separately from the inside (FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, respectively) and as a joined group (FIG. 7C);

in addition, given by way of example only are drawings relating to an independent second aspect in which:

in Fig. 8A shows an energy guide chain link having a separating jaw according to the first embodiment,

in Fig. 8B-8D show the separating jaw of FIG. 8A is a perspective view (FIG. 8B), a cross-sectional view of the dividing cheek fixed to two cross bars (FIG. 8C), and a front view of the dividing cheek (FIG. 8D),

in Fig. 9A to 9C show a perspective view (FIG. 9A) of a separating jaw according to the second embodiment, a sectional view of said separating jaw (FIG. 9A) fixed to two cross bars, and a detailed view with fastening pins in a sectional view (FIG. 9C), and

in Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a separating jaw according to the third embodiment.

The following drawings in turn illustrate an embodiment related to the first aspect.

In FIG. 11A to 11C show the plastic side portion of the second embodiment in an inside side view (FIG. 11A), an inside perspective view (FIG. 11B), and an enlarged partial sectional view (FIG. 11C) taken along line XIC-XIC in FIG. . 11A, and

in Fig. 12A-12F show a local portion of a hybrid guide energy chain according to the present invention in the second embodiment in a perspective view (FIG. 12A), a related enlarged partial view (FIG. 12B), a special connector for cross bars in a plan view (FIG. 12C) and side view (Fig. 12D), as well as the transverse energy chain guide rod in plan view (Fig. 12E) and end view (Fig. 12F).

CARRYING OUT THE FIRST ASPECT OF THE INVENTION

In FIG. 1A-1B show the longitudinal part of the guide energy chain 1, having two rows 1A, 1B of plates opposite each other in the lateral direction. Each row of plates 1A, 1B is made of two components, namely a chain plate 2 made of metal, such as sheet steel, and a side part 3 of plastic, in particular made by injection molding. Two rows 1A, 1B of plates are connected together in a parallel relationship by means of pairs of transverse rods 4 and form between them a receiving space for supply lines (not shown). The cross bars 4, which can be used on both sides, are preferably made of plastic and have a known configuration, as shown, for example, in DE 3531066 C2 or US 4813224 A, which were filed by the applicant of the present application and the ideas of which are incorporated in the present application by this reference .

The guide energy chain 1 is a half-cheek design and is made with alternating chain links 5A and 5B of different designs, namely the first hybrid chain links 5A containing two chain plates 2, two side parts 3 and two cross bars 4, and the second simple ones or non-hybrid chain links 5B comprising only two chain plates 2. The successive chain links 5A, 5B are respectively hinged together, more preferably rotatable relative to each other about a respective rotation axis A, from a preloaded or straight section position, as shown in part in Fig. 1A-1B, to an inclined position to form a directional arc (not shown) of a certain radius, and back while reciprocating the energy guide chain 1. The energy guide chain 1 may comprise continuously alternating chain links 5A and 5B, as shown in FIG. 1A-1B, between their end connections (not shown).

The inner and outer chain plates 2 alternate in each row of plates 1A, 1B such that the metal chain plates 2 overlap in pairs, more specifically with a corresponding one of the two end overlap regions 2A, 2B and a corresponding opposite overlap region 2A, 2B of the adjacent chain plate 1. Chain plates 2 made of metal are respectively arranged in two rows of plates 1A, 1B as alternating inner plates, here in hybrid chain links 5A, and outer plates, in this case in simple chain links 5B. In this case, the chain plates 2 have an identical structure in all the chain links 5A, 5B, and here they are identical parts, as shown in detail in FIG. 2A-2D.

In this arrangement, the side part 3 made of plastic is associated only with every second chain plate 2 made of metal, in this case the inwardly offset chain plate 2 in the chain links 5A. Thus, 5A chain links use a hybrid ratio of two materials: metal and plastic. The side parts 3 are identical parts of the same design, manufactured using a monolithic material, in particular in the form of plastic injection moldings, and are shown in detail in FIG. 3A-3D. With respect to the opposing chain plates 2 of the hybrid chain link 5A, a corresponding special side part 3 is mated as a connecting profiled part in the chain links 5A and mounted on the outer surface (Fig. 1B). In each plate row 1A, 1B, two adjacent metal chain plates 2 of the simple chain link 5B are respectively connected to the chain plate 2 of the hybrid chain link 5A by such a side portion 3.

To this end, the chain plates 2 in each floor area 2A, 2B have four corresponding first through holes 21, hereinafter referred to as thrust through holes 21, which serve to limit the rotation angle, and a corresponding second through hole 22, which serves to hinge the chain plates 2, in this case - in the form of a rotary node connection. Accordingly, the connecting plastic part, that is, the side part 3, in each of its end regions 3A, 3B has four corresponding first projections 31, hereinafter referred to as thrust projections 31, for interacting through the thrust through holes 21 in the chain plates 2. B In addition, the side portion 3 has a second protrusion 32, which is designed to cooperate with the second through hole 22 of the two chain plates 2 to be connected, and which is configured to correspond to the second through hole 22.

All thrust through holes 21 have an identical geometric shape in the form of a sector of a circular disk in the plane of the plate, see Fig. 2B and FIG. 2D respectively. In each overlap area 2A, 2B, the thrust through holes 21 are respectively distributed uniformly around the rotation axis A of the chain link 5A, 5B. The size of the arc of the through holes 21 can be selected in accordance with the required angle of rotation, however, it is significantly less than 360°/d, where d is the number of stops through the holes 21, in this case d=4, so that the ends of the chain plate 2 remain motionlessly connected along relative to the tensile force acting on its central region 2C.

The thrust projections 31 of the side part 3, which interact with the thrust through holes 21, are profiled in the form of block-shaped elements, which are also identical and in this case have an approximately square or rectangular base surface, see FIG. 3B. Each abutment 31 has two abutment surfaces 31A, 31B facing away from each other on its long sides. The thrust surfaces 31A, 31B serve to limit the rotation angle by abutting a respective one of two straight or linearly extending end regions 21A, 21B at the end of each arc thrust through hole 21. The end regions 21A, 21B in this case extend parallel to the radius of the rotation axis A, however, offset by approximately half the space between the two abutment surfaces 31A, 21B relative to the specified radius, see FIG. 2B.

As shown in FIG. 2B-3B and Fig. 2D-3D, the chain plates 2 and side plates 3 respectively have main bodies 20 and 30 respectively, with congruent outer contours in side view, in this case oval or approximately elliptical, with a longitudinal axis in the longitudinal direction L of the chain links (= connecting line between axes A-A of rotation of the chain plate 2). As shown in FIG. 2A, the main body 20 or chain plate 2 is respectively configured as a flat component without an elbow configuration or offset on both main sides. The chain plates 2 have a plate thickness T2 which is constant over the entire surface. As shown in FIG. 3C, the side portions 3 have corresponding projections 31, 32 only on the main side that is mounted opposite the inner side of the hybrid chain link 5A, and they have a flat or non-protrusion configuration on the other main side or the outer side.

As best seen from FIG. 1B, the side part 3 with projections 31, 32 extending from it is associated only with every second chain plate 2, that is, with the chain links 5A. In the straight-line position, the end regions 21B in one overlap region 2A of the mating chain plate 2 abut against the abutment projections 31, namely the abutment surfaces 31B, while in the other overlap region 2B of this chain plate 2 the corresponding other end regions 21A of the abutment through holes 21 are in a state of abutment against the corresponding other abutment surface 31A of the abutment protrusions 31. For adjacent chain plates 2, respectively, being in an inverse relationship, the opposite end regions 21A and 21B are respectively in a state of abutment against the corresponding abutment surface 31A and 31B. As can be seen from FIG. 1A, the projections 31 are thus sandwiched between respective opposing end regions 21A, 21B of the chain plates. Accordingly, the limitation of the position of the relative rotation is achieved, on the one hand, in a straight position (Fig. 1A) and, accordingly, also on the other hand by means of the corresponding facing end regions 21A and 21B in a fully inclined position (not shown). The plastic of the thrust protrusions 31 is able to withstand the corresponding pressure loads well. In order to withstand the shearing action between two radially opposed end regions 21A and 21B, respectively, the support projections 31 are, at least in certain regions, formed continuously of a hard material between the abutment surfaces 31A and 31B in FIG. 3A-3D, for example stirrup hard areas, and with a gap between the thrust surfaces 31A and 31B, the size of which is several times greater than the thickness T2 of the chain plates, for example at least 5 times.

Accordingly, only through holes 21, 22 (female connectors) are provided in two areas 2A. 2B of the overlap, and only projections 31, 32 (male connectors) are provided on the side parts 3 to make a connection on the chain plates 2. Thus, the chain plates 2 shown in FIG. 2A-2D may desirably be produced as simple sheet components, for example by stamping or cutting, possibly without additional processing or shaping steps. The chain plates 2 have a smooth, monolithic main body 20 that is flat on both sides. The side parts 3 are made of plastic in one piece with the main body 30 and all the protrusions, in particular the protrusions 31, 32. The chain plates 2 and the side parts 3 respectively have a symmetrical configuration with respect to the central axis of symmetry S, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

Accordingly, identical chain plates 2 and side parts 3 can be used on both sides in any row of plates 1A, 1B.

To ensure a stable pivot joint connection and transmission of tensile/axial force, the side portion 3 in each end region 3A 3B has a corresponding connecting projection 32 with an annular cylindrical outer wall defining the pivot axis A. The connecting projection 32 can be designed as shown in Figures 3A-3B, for example, in the form of a ring with a reinforcing hub to save material. Each connecting projection 32 interacts and supports through a corresponding coaxial circular through-hole 22 in the laterally overlapping regions 2A, 2B of the mating chain plate 2 and the adjacent chain plate 2, which are suitably overlapped in these areas, see FIG. 1B. Thus, despite the simplest design for the chain plates 2, a reliable rotary nodal connection is achieved between successive chain plates 2 around the rotation axis A. Compared to Fig. 1A, Fig. 3B shows three protrusions, namely two abutment protrusions 31 and a connecting protrusion 32, respectively interacting with each chain plate overlap region 2A, 2B on a long central axis in the longitudinal direction L in interaction with the corresponding through holes 21, 22, so that although that the side parts 3 have a design that saves material, when the guide energy chain is displaced, it is possible to transfer high tensile and axial forces from one chain plate 2 through the projections 21, 22 directly to the next chain plate 2. With this arrangement, tensile and axial forces may be partially transmitted by the thrust projections 31 or, in the case of a properly set gap, solely by the connecting projections 32 of the side plates 3, as is the case between the through holes 22 and the chain plate 2. Accordingly, only these projections 31 and 32 need to be made of plastic, so that they are adequately strong and of a suitable size. No power flow occurs through the main body 30 of the side parts 3 under any conditions, so that the main body 30 has a relatively thin-walled structure.

To fix the two corresponding side pieces 3 and the two mating overlapping side plates 2 so as to provide a hybrid chain link 5A, the cross bars 4 are respectively connected at their ends to one of two opposing locking pins 8 in the central region 3C of the side pieces 3. Each fixing pin 8 is made in the form of a single piece with the main body 30 and, like the projections 31, 32, protrudes from it on the inside. In order to increase the rigidity in the central region 3C between the end regions 3A, 3B, the main body 30 has a material thickening 7 on which locking pins 8 containing a homogeneous material are respectively provided. To provide rigidity in the central region 3C, between the end regions 3A, 3B, the main body 30 has a material thickening 7, on which locking pins 8 containing a homogeneous material are correspondingly provided. The thickening 7 of material in the central region 36 may comprise a thickness approximately equal to the thickness T2 of the chain plates 2, preferably somewhat greater, and is profiled at the end to conform to their contour. Each locking pin 8 is provided adjacent to two long narrow sides 9A, 9B of the side portion 3, which are located approximately in the longitudinal direction L.

The locking pin 8 has an approximately hexagonal cross-section and includes a projecting transverse nose that cooperates with a receiving means on the crossbar 4 to lock perpendicular to the main plane of the side portions 3. The crossbars 4 are mounted approximately perpendicular to the rotation axes A and the longitudinal direction L on the locking pins. To this end, the transverse bars 4 have receiving means at their ends for a stable snap connection with the locking pins 8, as described in DE 3531066 C2, with the difference that the locking pin 8 protrudes further by approximately twice the thickness T2 of the chain plates 2. More specifically, the locking pins 8 the pins 8 interact through an additional hole 23 on each narrow side 6A, 6B of the mating chain plate 2. A corresponding adjacent chain plate 2 is also held between each overlap area 2A, 2B of the mating chain plate 2 and the side portion 3, see FIG. 1A-1B. The attachment of the chain plates 2 to each other perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L or the main plane S-L can be achieved by means of transverse rods 4, which respectively rest with their flat ends on the edge 24 around the hole 23 in the mating chain plate 2 for the purpose of holding this chain plate 2 in the lateral direction inwardly on the side portion 3. Between the opposing overlap regions 2A, 2B of this chain plate 2 and the end regions 3A, 3B of the side portion 3, adjacent chain plates 2 of the non-hybrid chain links 5B are held there simultaneously. Thus, the installation of two transverse bars 4 ensures that, simultaneously with the chain link 5A, three corresponding chain plates 2 are mounted on each other transversely to the longitudinal direction L, see FIG. 1B. In the assembled state, the mating chain plate 2 is clamped, thanks to the proper sizing of the locking pins 8, between the transverse rods and the material thickening 7 of the side part 3, that is, the outer side of the chain plate 2 is offset towards the flat inner side of the material thickening 7.

To provide additional support to prevent bending with the opening of the end regions 3A, 3B, in the simple chain links 5B, all support projections 31 have a corresponding transverse extension 35, which interacts behind them with the corresponding adjacent chain plate 2, more precisely with the edge of the main body 30 in the corresponding end area 21A, 21B. As can be seen in FIG. 1A, this interaction of the transverse extensions 35 with the thrust protrusions 31 for lateral stabilization takes place in this case only in a more critical straight position of the plate rows 1A, 1B, that is, in particular, in the self-supporting upper section, when the chain links 5A, 5B are not inclined. The transverse extensions 35 may be of any suitable configuration, for example in this case they take the form of semicircular tabs when viewed in side view (FIGS. 3A-3B) which project from the end of the block abutment projections 31 parallel to the main plane L-S of the side portion 3. The spacing between the transverse extensions 35 extensions 35 and the main body 30 slightly exceed the thickness T2 of the chain plates 2. To simplify the forming tool used to manufacture the side parts 3 by injection molding, a production recess 36 can be provided in relation to each transverse extension 35 in the plate body 30, so that The forming tool does not require a sliding element.

In FIG. 4A-6C show embodiments in relation to the metal chain plate 2 of FIG. 2A-2D to construct the hybrid chain links 5A in combination with the side portions 3. Only the differences are described below, and other features of the side plates 42, 52, 62 are identical to those described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2D.

In FIG. 4A-4C, the chain plate 42 has a corresponding end stiffening area 40A, 40B on both narrow sides 6A, 6B to stiffen the main body 20 to prevent unwanted deformation, particularly in the case of very long self-supporting sections. The stiffening areas 40A, 40B extend approximately linearly in the longitudinal direction L and are curved in cross-section approximately according to a quarter arc of a circle, that is, they can be profiled by bending the edge of the projecting end plates away from the main body 20, which would otherwise be flat. The length of the stiffening regions 40A, 40B in this case is slightly greater than the chain pitch, that is, the gap between successive axes of rotation A. The chain plates 42 with a stiffening area 40A, 40B on each narrow side 6A, 6B can be used with a 180° rotation about their longitudinal axis for other prestressing effects.

In FIG. 5A-5C, the chain plate 52 has a corresponding stiffening area 50 corresponding to the configuration shown in FIG. 4A-4C, on only one narrow side 6A, namely the narrow side facing upward in the self-supporting section. The other narrow side 6B, in contrast, has an oval configuration and is in a level-to-plane relationship with the main body 20, as in FIG. 2A-2D.

In FIG. 6A-6C, the chain plate 62, as in the previous case, has on both narrow sides 6A, 6B a corresponding stiffening region 60A, 60B of the main body 20 to prevent unwanted deformation. In this case, the cross section is the same as in FIG. 4C, however, the configuration is slightly curved in the longitudinal direction L, matching the oval contour of the side portions 3. A corresponding plate projecting on the narrow side 6A, 6B may be slotted at its ends so as not to adversely affect the main body 20 when deformed, as can be seen in Fig. 6A/6C. The chain plates 42, 52, 62 shown in FIG. 4A-6C provide the ability to further increase the self-supporting length while maintaining the same T2 plate thickness. They are arranged alternately, with the stiffening areas 40, 50, 60 facing away from each other, so that they do not adversely affect the angular arrangement.

In FIG. 7A-7C show another embodiment of the metal chain plate 2 of FIG. 2A-2D and the variant related to the side part 3 of FIG. 3A-3D. Only the differences are described below, other features are identical to those described with reference to FIG. 2A-2D and Figs. 3A-3D.

Chain plates 72 made of metal according to FIG. 7A/7C have corresponding peripherally extending edge regions 71 on all abutment through holes 21 of each overlap region 2A, 2B, the edge regions 71 being formed by metal shaping, for example by deep drawing or bending of the edges. These edge regions 71 include end regions 71A, 71B acting as abutments, with an abutment surface that is enlarged compared to FIG. 2A-2D and which is made by profiling. Accordingly, improved surface pressure distribution on the abutment surfaces 31A, 31B of the support projections 31 on the plastic side portion 73 is possible. The profiling operation also inherently prevents the formation of sharp edges in the through holes 21. In addition, the peripherally extending edge regions 71 act as stiffening means for the chain plate 72.

As shown in FIG. 7C, structurally identical chain plates 72 are alternately connected in a rotated relationship by side portions 73 to projecting inward and outward edge regions 71, as shown in FIG. 7C. Accordingly, in the side portion 73, arcuate recesses 79 are provided for the edge regions 71 of the overlapping chain plates 72. The projections of the edge regions 71 are noticeably smaller than the projection 31 of the side portion 73. All other features of the chain plates 72 and the side portions 73 correspond to the first embodiment.

In FIG. 11A-11C show an embodiment of a side portion 13 for use in a hybrid energy direction circuit 1. A side part 13 corresponding to the one shown in FIG. 3A-3D, also in this case has a main body 30 with two end regions 3A, 3B, and between them a central region 13C, which is reinforced by a thickening of material 7 and which includes a locking pin 8 for the cross rod, near each narrow side 9A-9B . In the end regions 3A, 3B, four corresponding stop projections 131 are provided to interact with the corresponding through holes 21 of two adjacent chain plates 2 to limit the rotation angle. Each abutment 131 has a transverse extension 35 to provide lateral stability in a straight position. The side portion 13 is also manufactured as one piece of plastic by injection molding, and it is designed and can be used to connect two overlapping chain plates 2, as shown in FIG. 2A-2D.

Significant difference in the content of Fig. 11A-11C from FIG. 3A-3D are described below. In FIG. 11A-11C, each second protrusion 132 in the form of a pin for providing a node connection at the same time has a locking snap connector for locking on the chain plate 2 (see Figs. 12A-12B), namely the corresponding second through hole 22, which serves as pin receiving means or node receiving means. Thus, the side part 13 further increases the lateral stability of the plate rows 1A, 1B or chain links 5A, 5B by means of a locking connection at the node connection, in particular in all angular positions of the chain plates 2 relative to each other. For this purpose, on the projecting inner side, the connecting lip 132 has at least two diametrically opposed locking spouts 132A, 132B with corresponding locking edges, as shown in more detail in FIG. 11C. In the example shown in FIG. 11A-11C, the coupling lip 132 respectively defines four quarter-circle arc-shaped locking spouts 132A, 132B that are integrally formed with the arc-shaped base of the coupling lip 132 and distributed symmetrically around the hinge axis A. Alternatively it is also possible, for example, for only two locking spouts or locking hooks to be in mutually opposite relationships, for example in the height direction (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L), diametrically relative to the rotation axis A, so that the areas directed in the longitudinal direction L of the connecting projection 132 may have a flexible rigid configuration similar to FIG. 3A-3D. The connecting projections 132 shown in FIG. 11A to 11C, which at the same time perform a locking function, can preferably be manufactured by injection molding.

In FIG. 12A-12F show an improved embodiment of the guide energy chain 12 having two opposing rows of plates 12A, 12B. Each row of plates 12A, 12B is made of alternating chain plates 2 overlapping on one side, as shown in FIG. 2A-2D, and with side portions 13 as shown in FIG. 11A-11C. In this case, both the chain links 15B with side parts 13 and the chain links 15A with only two chain plates 2 (without side parts 13) are provided with two corresponding special cross bars 124, which provide additional lateral stabilization.

As can be seen from FIG. 12A-12B and Fig. 12E-12F, the cross bars 124 in this arrangement are provided at both ends with two corresponding opposing projections or wings 124A, 124B that project in the longitudinal direction L and which are symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal center plane of the cross bar 123. The flat outer surfaces of the wings 124A, 124B are positioned flush with the corresponding end of the crossbar 124. As can be seen from FIG. 12A and 12B, the wings 124A, 124B with their outer surfaces form a corresponding support surface 124C, which in simple chain links 15A overlaps with the corresponding two adjacent chain plates 2 of adjacent hybrid chain links 15B and supports them from the inner side in the lateral direction, that is, increases the lateral stability. In the hybrid chain links 158, the edge region 24 of the chain plate 2 around the locking pin holes 23 of the side portions 13 rests stably on the supporting surfaces 124C of the wings 124A, 124B to enhance lateral stability. In the hybrid chain links 15B, the cross bar 124 is attached to the locking pins of the side plates 13, which respectively interact through a corresponding hole 23 in the chain plate 2.

The energy guide circuit 12 in FIG. 12A-12F have a full jaw configuration, that is, with cross bars 124 on the hybrid chain links 15B as well as on the non-hybrid chain links 15A (see FIG. 12B). In this regard, in FIG. 12C-12D show a special connector 125 in the form of an injection molded product, with which the cross bars 124 can be attached to the individual chain plates 2. The separate special connector 125 has a locking end 125A, the shape of which, in particular the cross section, is structurally identical to the locking pins 8 for locking onto the receiving means 124D of the crossbar 124 in a known manner (see FIGS. 11A and 3B). In the opposite relationship, a special connector 125 forms a support end 125B of an enlarged cross-section, in this case approximately triangular in shape, for bearing on the outside of the chain plate 2, in each case at the outer edge around the hole 23. Between the locking end 125A and the support end 125B there is a transition section 125C, the cross-section of which is in conjugate consistent relationship with the hole 23 in the chain plate 2 to prevent rotation and which forms a contact edge for the end of the transverse rod 124. In this case, the size T12 of the transition section 125C perpendicular to the plane of the plate may be slightly less than the thickness T2 of the chain plates 2 in order to ensure backlash-free contact of the internal surfaces of adjacent chain plates 2 with the supporting surfaces 124C of the wings 124A, 124B. By means of special connectors 125, a guide energy chain 12 with full jaws can be realized, as shown in FIG. 12A-12F, without male connecting components on chain plates 2.

Other features and properties of the hybrid guide energy chain 12 of FIG. 11A-12F correspond to the properties of the hybrid guide energy circuit 1 shown in FIG. 1A-3D.

The guide energy chain or the chain link of the chain according to one of the previous embodiments can preferably be supplemented with a separating jaw, as described below.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SECOND ASPECT

In FIG. 8a shows an energy guide chain link 801 having two chain plates or side parts 802, the design of which is known per se. The side portions 802 are connected together and separated from each other by two cross bars 803. The side portions 802 and the cross bars 803 form a receiving space 804 in the chain link 801 for receiving feed lines (not shown) that are guided by the guide power chain. In the illustrated example, the receiving space is divided vertically into two parts by a separating jaw 805. In this case, the separating jaw 805 has a plate-like configuration and is fixed at each of its end sides to a corresponding one of the transverse rods 803. For this purpose, the separating jaw 805 has a corresponding locking area 806 at its ends. In this case, the fixing regions 806 are identical.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the separating jaw 805 has a two-piece structure. In all embodiments shown in relation to the second aspect, the separating jaw 805, 905, 1005 consists of two identical parts, namely parts 807, 907, 1007, which are preferably formed as a single piece of plastic, which is a molded product obtained by injection molding under pressure. In this case, the two parts 807, 907, 1007 are removably connected to each other.

Portion 807 is shown separately in FIG. 8b and 8d. Each of the two separate portions 807 of the spacer jaw 805 has a plate-like configuration with a base plane corresponding to the drawing plane in FIG. 8d. The width direction B and the height direction H of the separating cheek 805 perpendicular to it are themselves located in the main plane. The width direction B when the separating jaw 805 is installed corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the chain link 801 or the guided rows. The height direction H corresponds to the direction from one fixing region 806 to another perpendicular to the transverse bars 803 and the longitudinal direction of the chain link 801.

In FIG. 8a-d, the fixing area 806 is in the form of a peripherally extending frame 814 having an opening 816. The opening 816 serves to receive a corresponding transverse rod 803, which can be inserted through the opening 816 perpendicular to the main plane. The embodiment of FIG. 10 also has such a frame 1014 as a locking area 1006. The frame 814, 1014 is particularly capable of reliably preventing unwanted detachment or release of the cross bar. However, the frame 814, 1014 need not have a completely circumferential configuration and instead, for example, may also be configured as a C-clamp that partially, preferably predominantly, encircles the distal outer side of the crossbar 803.

Each of the parts 807 in FIG. 8a-d has a corresponding end locking area 806 and a tongue body 808. Each two parts 807 can be connected together, and they can be separated from each other in a direction perpendicular to the main plane. To assemble the spacer jaw 805 from two parts 807, the parts 807 are placed together such that their bodies 808 overlap in a major plane. The overall wall thickness of the two housings 808 in a given area preferably corresponds to the thickness of the corresponding locking area 806. Consequently, this provides flat outer sides that do not have any abrupt level changes and are free of interfering edges. Each part 807 has exactly one locking region.

The housing 808 has a circular cylindrical mounting pin 810 projecting perpendicular to the main plane B-H and a circular cylindrical fastening receiving means 812 which is recessed perpendicular to the main plane B-H. A fastening pin 810 is located in an end region of the housing 808 at a distance from the locking region 806. A fastening pin 812 is located between the locking region 806 and the fastening pin 810 with respect to the height direction H. The fastening pin 810 and the fastening receiving means 812 are spaced apart in the height direction H. In all embodiments shown herein, the fastening receiving means 812, 912, 1012 are in the form of a through hole. The fastening pin 810 and the fastening receiving means 812 are located with respect to the width direction B on a line forming the symmetry axis S of the portion 807. Thus, the portion 807 has a mirror symmetrical configuration with respect to the symmetry axis S in a major plane perpendicular to the width direction. When two pieces 807 are joined together to form a spacer jaw 805, a fastening pin 810 is positioned in the fastening receptacle 812 and ends flush with the surface of the outer portion 807, that is, in the direction of the fastening pin 810 of one piece 807.

Asymmetrical portions are also substantially consistent with the present invention if the outer contours of the fastening pin 810 and fastening receptacle 812 are mutually corresponding in configuration and arrangement, for example, symmetrical about the Z-axis of symmetry of the fastening pin/fastening receiving means pair, which extends perpendicular to the H direction heights in the main plane. The fastening pin 810 and fastening receiving means 812 are preferably, but not necessarily, of a round-cylindrical or cylindrical configuration. Each of the fastening pin 810 and the fastening receiving means 812 may have a section parallel to the main plane that varies in a direction perpendicular to the main plane. The fastening pin always has a complementary configuration to the fastening receiving means 812 for a hard-locking and/or positive-locking connection.

In FIG. 9c shows a partial cross-sectional view of the separator jaw 905 in which the locking pin 910 is locked into the fastening receptacle 912 by the interaction of the locking tab 918 and the locking recess 920. A locking connection design is preferred for all embodiments. In FIG. 8b shows, for example, a preferably circumferentially continuous locking tab 818 on the fastening pin 810 and a preferably cylindrical locking recess 820 in the fastening receptacle 812.

Each portion 807 of FIG. 8a-8d have two extensions 817 protruding in the width direction. Each extension 817 has a connection hole 819. The connection hole 819 has an axis in a major plane. When connecting two parts 807, two corresponding holes 819 are aligned with each other. Thus, the two parts 807 can be secured together by extensions 817 in a direction perpendicular to the main plane, for example, by screws, fastening pins, and the like, which are inserted into the connecting holes 819 and secure the arrangement perpendicular to the main plane. The extensions 817 are preferably located on one side of the Z-axis of symmetry of the fastening pin/fastening receiving means pair with respect to the height direction H. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 8a, b, d and Fig. 9a, 9b, continuations 817, 917 end flush with the Z axis.

The portion 807 may optionally have an additional through hole 821 that is equidistant on the axis of symmetry S between the fastening pin 810 and the fastening receptacle 812. When the two portions 807 are connected to form the spacer jaw 805, said through holes 821 are also aligned with each other as best everything can be seen from Fig. 8s. They can also be used to provide additional fastening action, for example when extensions are not required.

In fig. 9a, b and Fig. 10 shows additional embodiments of structurally identical separating jaw parts 907, 1007. Only the differences regarding these modifications are described in portion 807 of FIG. 8a-8d, all other features are identical or consistent with those described with reference to Figures 8a-d.

Portion 907 of FIG. 9a, b differs from part 807 only in the shape of the locking area. The locking area 906 in this case takes the form of a retaining clip 922. The retaining clip 922 serves to engage in locking engagement with the lock rod, in the form of a recess in the cross rod (not shown). For this purpose, mutually opposed locking hooks 924 are provided. The locking hooks 924 of the holding clips 922, which extend relative to each other in the width direction of the portion 907, can be locked onto the locking rod 826, 926 of the cross rod 803, 903, and are more stable and strong. than conventional shut-off connections.

Portion 1007 in FIG. 10 is different from portion 807 of FIG. 8a-8d only in that it has some extensions 817. The two parts 807, 907, 1007 in FIG. 8a-10 are respectively held by the locking connection of the locking tab 106 to the locking recess 1020 on the fastening pin 810, 1010 and fastening receiving means 812, 1012. Through holes 1021 between the fastening pin 1010 and fastening receiving means 1012 can be used to provide additional fastening action, for example, using a bolt or the like.

The proposed separating jaw 805, 905, 1005 makes it possible to securely fasten the transverse bars to the chain plates, so that their separation in the height direction H is only possible after the two parts 807, 907, 1007 are separated from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and direction of height.

List of symbols

FIG. 1A - FIG. 3D

1 - guiding energy chain

1A, 1B - rows of plates

2 - chain plate

2A, 2B - overlap areas (chain plate)

2C - central area (chain plate)

3 - side part

3A, 3B - end areas (side part)

3C - central area (lateral part)

4 - transverse rod

5A, 5B - chain links

6A, 6B - narrow sides (chain plate)

7 - thickening of the material

8 - fixing pin

9A, 9B - narrow sides (side part)

20 - main body (chain plate)

21 - first through hole (thrust holes)

21A, 21B - end area (stops)

22 - second through hole (pin receiving means)

23 - hole

24 - edge

30 - main body (side part)

31 - first protrusion (thrust protrusions)

31A, 31B - thrust surfaces

32 - second protrusion (pin protrusions)

35 - transverse extension

36 - tool hole

A - axis of rotation

L - longitudinal direction

S - axis of symmetry

T2 - plate thickness

FIG. 4A - FIG. 6C

6A, 6B - narrow sides (chain plate)

20 - main body (chain plate)

42, 52, 62 - chain plates

40A, 40B, 50, 60A, 60B - areas of increased rigidity

FIG. 7A - FIG. 7C

21 - thrust holes

71 - edge area

71A, 71B - end areas (stops)

72 - chain plate

73 - side part

79 - recesses

FIG. 8A - FIG. 10

801 - chain link

802 - side part

803, 903 - cross bars

804 - receiving space in chain link

805, 905 - dividing cheeks

806, 906, 1006 - fixing areas

807, 907, 1007 - parts for assembling the dividing cheek

808, 908, 1008 - part housings

810, 910, 1010 - mounting pins

812, 912, 1012 - fastening receiving means

814, 1014 - frames

816, 1016 - holes

817, 917 - continuations

818, 918, 1018 - locking tabs

819, 919 - connecting holes

820, 920, 1020 - locking recesses

821, 921, 1021 - through holes

922 - holding clamp

924 - locking hook

826, 926 - locking rods on cross bars

B - width direction

H - height direction

S, Z - axes of symmetry

FIG. 11A - FIG. 12F

2 - chain plate

5A, 5B - chain links

7 - thickening of the material

8 - fixing pin

9A, 9B - narrow sides (side parts)

12 - guiding energy chain

12A, 12B - rows of plates

13 - side part

13A, 13B - end areas (side parts)

13C - central area (side part)

15A, 15B - chain links

21 - first through hole (thrust holes)

22 - second through hole (means for receiving the pin)

23 - hole

24 - edge

30 - main body (side part)

35 - transverse extension

124 - cross rod

124A, 124B - wings

124С - supporting surface

125 - special connector (for cross bars)

125A - fixing end

125V - support end

125C - transition section

131 - first protrusion (thrust protrusions)

131A, 131B - thrust surfaces

132 - second protrusion (pin protrusions)

A - axis of rotation

T12 - size

Claims (36)

1. Guide energy chain (1) for lines such as cables, hoses, containing chain links (5A, 5B) with chain plates located opposite each other in the lateral direction, wherein said guide energy chain has two side rows (1A, 1B) of plates, each row of plates contains chain plates (2) that are connected together to be rotatably relative to each other in the longitudinal direction and each of which has first and second regions (2A, 2B) ceilings, and side parts (3) made of plastic, which respectively have two end areas (3A, 3B), wherein the chain plates (2) are made of a different material, in particular with higher strength and/or rigidity, than the side parts (3), characterized in that at least in part of each row (1A, 1B) of plates, successive chain plates (2) have through holes (21, 22) in the first overlap area (2A) and through holes (21, 22) in the second overlap area (2B), wherein the through holes (21, 22) of two successive plates (2) respectively at least partially overlap; And in said part, associated with every second chain plate (2), there is a side part (3), which in its two end areas (3A, 3B) respectively has one or more projections (31, 32), with the help of which the side part interacts through both overlapping areas of the chain plate mating with it, and the side part with one or more projections (31, 32) of each end region interacts through the overlapping through holes (21, 22) of the mating chain plate (2) and, accordingly, the adjacent chain plate (2 ) for the purpose of limiting the relative angle of rotation of successive chain plates and/or for connecting them. 2. The guide energy chain according to claim 1, characterized in that the side part connects the chain plate mating with the side part, in its first overlap area with the first chain plate adjacent inside the row of plates, and in its second overlap area with the second chain plate , adjacent within the row of plates, wherein the chain plates (2) and/or the side parts (3) preferably have an identical design at least in the longitudinal part of both rows of plates. 3. The guide energy chain according to claim 2, characterized in that the chain plates (2) in both overlap areas (2A, 2B) respectively have at least two, in particular four, first through holes (21) distributed around the axis rotation, preferably arcuate first through holes (21), the end regions (21A, 21B) of which respectively abut the stop surfaces (31A, 31B) of the corresponding first projections (31), interacting through them to limit the angle of rotation. 4. Guide energy circuit according to one of paragraphs. 1-3, characterized in that the chain plates (2) in both areas (2A, 2B) of the ceiling have a round through hole (22), respectively, concentrically located on the axis (A) of rotation, and the protrusion (32) coaxially interacts with this hole side part (3) for the purpose of creating a rotary nodal connection of successive chain plates (2), wherein the chain plates (2) preferably respectively have in both areas (2A, 2B) of the overlap at least one additional through hole (21), which interacts with the thrust surfaces (31A, 32B) of the corresponding protrusion (31) of the side part to limit the angle of rotation . 5. Guide energy circuit according to one of paragraphs. 1-4, characterized in that the side parts (3) are made in the form of one piece and each side part (3) is located on one side. 6. Guide energy circuit according to one of paragraphs. 1-5, characterized in that the chain plates (2) are made of metal sheet or fiber composite material, in particular with a constant thickness (T2) of the plate. 7. Guide energy circuit according to one of paragraphs. 1-6, characterized in that the inner and outer chain plates (2) are arranged sequentially alternating in a lateral offset relationship, and the plates respectively overlap only on one side (2A, 2B) and/or the side parts (3) are respectively located in the outer lateral position on the mating chain plate (2). 8. Guide energy circuit according to one of paragraphs. 1-7, characterized in that the side parts (3) respectively include between the end areas (3A, 3B) a central area (3C) with narrow sides (9A, 9B) located opposite each other, and the central area (3C) respectively has at least one protruding locking pin (8), in particular two locking pins (8) located on the narrow sides, for the transverse rod (4). 9. The guide energy chain according to claim 8, characterized in that the two corresponding side parts (3) are connected by means of two transverse rods (4), each locking pin (8) protrudes through a corresponding hole (23) in the corresponding mating chain plate ( 2), and the cross bars (4) preferably rest at their ends on the edge (24) of the hole (23) to hold the mating chain plate (2) laterally. 10. The guide energy chain according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that all the chain plates (2) and side parts (3) have substantially congruent outer contours and/or are designed as flat components without an elbow configuration or offset. 11. The energy guide chain according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that each of the chain plates (2) has two narrow sides (6A, 6B) located opposite each other, and at least one narrow side, preferably each of the two narrow sides , equipped with laterally arranged areas (40A, 40B, 50, 60A, 60B) to increase rigidity. 12. The guide energy chain according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the projections (31, 32) protrude from the side part (3) with a size that is at least twice the thickness (T2) of the chain plate (2) in the area (2A, 2B) overlap and is preferably less than three times the specified plate thickness. 13. The guiding energy chain according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that at its end on at least one protrusion (31) to limit the angle of rotation in each end region (3A, 3B) there is, respectively, at least one transverse extension (35 ), behind which interaction of the chain plate (2) is possible. 14. The guide energy chain according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that at least one of the holes (71) for limiting the angle of rotation in each overlap area of the chain plate has a profiled edge with a stop function or end areas (71A, 71B) and/ or profiled edge areas that serve to form a rotary nodal connection. 15. The directing energy chain according to one of the previous paragraphs, containing a first section, a second section and a direction change area located between them, and the first section is fixed by means of an end area on an engaging element with a relatively movable connection point, characterized in that the longitudinal part, in which the successive chain plates (2) are equipped with through holes (21, 22) in the first and second areas (2A, 2B) of the overlap and the side part (3), is associated with every second chain plate and extends from the end region to engaging element within at least a third of the total length of the guide energy chain. 16. The guide energy chain according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that both rows (1A, 1B) of plates between their end areas contain chain plates (2) and side parts (3) that are structurally identical throughout their entire length. 17. Chain link (5A) for guiding the energy chain (1), containing two metal chain plates (2) located opposite each other with through holes (21, 22) in the first area (2A) of the overlap and through holes (21, 22 ) in the second area (2B) of the overlap of the corresponding chain plate, characterized in that in the lateral direction relative to each chain plate (2), from two chain plates located opposite each other, a corresponding side part (3) is made of plastic, which has two end areas (3A, 3B), each of which has at least one protrusion (31 , 32), in particular several protrusions (31, 32), corresponding to the number of through holes (21, 22) in the overlap area (2A, 2B), with at least one protrusion (31, 32) interacting through the through hole (21, 22) 22) in the mating chain plate (2), and the side part interacts through its projections through both overlap areas of the chain plate mated to it. 18. A separating jaw for guiding the energy chain, wherein at both ends the separating jaw (805) has a corresponding locking area (806) for fixing on the transverse rod (803) of the chain link (801), and it has a plate configuration extending in the main plane , characterized in that The separating jaw (805) has a two-part configuration with a first portion (807) that includes at least one fastening pin (810) projecting perpendicular to the main plane, and a second portion that contains at least one fastening receptacle (812) in the form a recess perpendicular to the main plane, so that said two parts (807) can be connected and separated in a direction perpendicular to the main plane. 19. Separating jaw according to claim 18, characterized in that both parts (807) are made in the form of identical parts and/or in the form of one part, and each of them has a fixing area (806) and a body (808), which has a fastening a pin (810) and a fastening receptacle (812), the fastening pin being preferably located on an end region of the housing that is remote from the locking region. 20. Separating jaw according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that each of the two parts (807) has exactly one fixing area (806). 21. Separating cheek according to one of paragraphs. 18-20, characterized in that each locking area (806) has at least predominantly, preferably completely, a peripherally extending frame (814) having an opening (816) through which a transverse rod can be inserted perpendicular to the main plane (B-H ). 22. Separating cheek according to one of paragraphs. 18-21, characterized in that each part (807) in the end region opposite the fixing region (860) has at least one extension (817), which protrudes in the main plane, in particular in the longitudinal direction of the guide energy chain, with for the purpose of securing said parts together in a direction perpendicular to the main plane by means of extensions (817), in particular by means of a screw connection, a fastening pin. 23. Separating cheek according to one of paragraphs. 18-22, characterized in that the fastening pin (810) is configured to lock onto the fastening receiving means (812), in particular, as a result of the interaction of the locking tab (818, 1018) and the locking recess (820, 1020).