WO2023208527A1

WO2023208527A1 - Line guiding device and supporting chain for clean-room applications

Info

Publication number: WO2023208527A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/058659
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dominik BARTEN
Original assignee: Igus Gmbh
Priority date: 2022-04-25
Filing date: 2023-04-03
Publication date: 2023-11-02
Also published as: TW202403202A; DE202022102217U1

Abstract

The invention relates to a line guiding device (1) comprising a flexible sheath (8) and a supporting chain (10), and to the supporting chain per se. According to the invention, the supporting chain (10) consists of alternatingly successive chain links (20) and articulated connectors (30) which each comprise a deformable region (32) and each hold together two adjacent chain links (20) which are pivotable with respect to one another. The chain links (20) and/or the articulated connectors (30) are interconnectable and releasable from one another in a joining direction that is different from the longitudinal direction. The invention also relates to a supporting chain (10) consisting of chain links (20) which are interconnected in order to transmit tensile and/or compressive forces. According to the invention, a rear lower part (202B) of a first adjacent chain link (20') can be inserted into a front space (241) between the front upper part (201A) and lower part (201B) of the relevant chain link (20), and a front upper part (201A) of a second adjacent chain link (20'') can be inserted into a rear space (242) between the rear upper part (202A) and lower part (202B) of the relevant chain link (20).

Description

GUIDE DEVICE AND SUPPORT CHAIN FOR CLEANROOM APPLICATIONS

The invention generally relates to a cable routing device, in particular for clean room applications, for the protected dynamic routing of supply lines such as cables, hoses or the like. In a longitudinal direction between two connection points, at least one of which is movable relative to the other. Such dynamic or active cable routing devices protect the cables against unwanted stresses when moving, usually between a stationary connection and a moving consumer, for example on a machine. They are typically linear or can be moved back and forth in a plane of movement along the longitudinal direction and typically form two strands that are essentially stretched in the longitudinal direction of the guide and a deflection arc between them. The deflection bend is typically bent in an approximately U-shape around a deflection axis running in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal direction. The deflection bend is therefore approximately U-shaped in a plane in which the longitudinal direction and a height direction lie. The cable routing device is folded over in the deflection bend in the intended, operational state, so that one of the runs can pass into the deflection bend and thereby into the other run.

The invention also relates in particular to a support chain as such for such a cable routing device.

The invention specifically relates to a cable routing device intended for clean room applications with a flexible Covering, which has a number of receiving channels arranged side by side and extending in the longitudinal direction for dust-protecting covering of supply lines, in which at least one supply line is typically accommodated. The covering is intended in particular to prevent abrasion of the cables, which inevitably occurs due to driving movement, from being released into the environment. In addition, a covering made of suitable material can improve overall abrasion behavior.

For stabilization or for longer lengths, so-called support chains are used to support the cable routing, especially in the extended position of a self-supporting or non-supporting strand. For this purpose, the support chain can be arranged in a receiving channel instead of a line and can assume stretched positions to form the strands and an arcuate position to form a deflection arc, with the support chain also specifying the desired radius.

Depending on the load weight, for example, two support chains are inserted on the outside in a casing. Multi-layer structures are also known, in which more than two support chains are used in the covering of a supporting layer, up to layers without any cable, i.e. with only support chains in the covering of a layer.

Such a cable routing device with support chains was proposed, for example, in WO 2021/116467 Al. A generic support chain of this type comprises a large number of chain links, which can be connected to one another in an articulated manner in the longitudinal direction. Two adjacent or successive chain links are connected by an articulated connection so that they can pivot relative to one another in one or against a bending direction.

The two chain links are designed to be pivotable relative to one another between a stretched and an angled position in the plane in which the longitudinal direction and the height direction lie. As a result, the support chain can be moved, forming two essentially in the longitudinal direction stretched strands and a deflection arch connecting the strands. The deflection bend is usually essentially U-shaped in the plane in which the longitudinal direction and the height direction lie. Such support chains ensure in particular that a certain radius is maintained in the deflection bend, ie the cables are protected against kinking. In addition, the usable length is increased because the support chains enable larger unsupported lengths, usually of the upper run. So that such a support chain can be used instead of a cable in the casing, it typically has particularly compact dimensions, at least in cross section, especially in comparison to common energy chains. A generic support chain itself therefore typically and preferably does not have a receiving channel for cables.

The joint connection in WO 2021/116467 A1 is designed in the manner of a boi zen/receptacle swivel joint connection, with each chain link having two joint pins projecting in the transverse direction and two complementary joint receptacles in which the joint pins are rotatably received. The disadvantage here is that particles are released during operation due to the friction between the respective joint pin and the joint holder, which is particularly undesirable in clean rooms. As mentioned above, the support chains, like the guided supply lines, are inserted into casings. Support chains can wear out sooner than the supply lines, requiring either replacement of the entire casing, or opening the casing and replacing the support chain, or providing a separate casing unit specifically for the support chain. Thus, there is a need to increase the life of the support chains. A weak point of known support chains can be the joint connections, which, for example in the case of a pin/receptacle swivel joint, are exposed to considerable shear forces and alternating stresses when moving back and forth.

The chain links according to WO 2021 116467 A1 each have a front longitudinal section and a rear longitudinal section with respect to the longitudinal direction. Both longitudinal sections are in suitably designed to connect the chain links to one another in a predetermined manner, in particular in such a way that a predetermined geometry of the deflection bend is maintained.

The chain link according to WO 2021 116467 A1 has, in the rear longitudinal section, a free space between two side parts, into which the front longitudinal section of a further, rear or adjacent chain link following in the support chain can be inserted along the longitudinal direction, and two recesses spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction - one on an upper side of the chain link, i.e. on the side lying on the outside of the deflection bend, and one on a bottom side, i.e. on the side lying on the inside of the deflection bend. The front longitudinal section has two projections projecting in the height direction for interaction with the cross connections. When the chain links are plugged together, the lower projection projects into the lower recess in the extended position of the two chain links, with the upper projection protruding into the upper recess in the completely angled position of the two chain links.

When designing the support chain according to the teaching of WO 2021 116467 Al, there is a position of the two chain links relative to one another between the straight position and the completely angled position in which none of the projections interacts with a recess or there is only a very small common effective area. In such a position, the chain links may become separated from each other along the longitudinal direction or breakage may occur due to excessive loading.

When used as intended, the support chains are particularly subjected to tension or pressure along the longitudinal direction. Thus, according to WO 2021 116467 Al, in the above-mentioned intermediate position, the tensile force can only be transmitted through the bolt/hole joint connection. The hinge pin in particular is subjected to shear stress. This reduces the maximum service life of the support chain or requires an undesirably voluminous design. An object of the present invention is therefore to propose a cable routing device with a support chain or the support chain for it, which is more robust and better suited for the transmission of tensile and compressive forces and has a longer service life, and at the same time should be as compact as possible, in particular in the cross section of the chain links. This task is solved by a cable routing device or a support chain according to claim 1 or 2 and, independently of this, by a support chain according to independent claim 7.

FIRST ASPECT

According to an independent first aspect, in a generic cable routing device according to the preamble of claim 1 or in a support chain according to the preamble of claim 2, the above-mentioned task is already solved in that the support chain consists of a strand, at least in a longitudinal section, which extends in the longitudinal direction has alternating successive chain links and joint connectors, the joint connectors each comprising a deformable region which is particularly elastically deformable in a bending direction, the joint connectors each holding two adjacent chain links together, in particular in the longitudinal direction.

The joint connectors or joint elements with a flexible or deformable area make it possible, among other things, to avoid a pin-receiving joint connection typical of link chains and the associated abrasion.

The chain links can be pivoted in particular relative to one another in or against the bending direction, in particular between a stretched and an angled position of the two adjacent, connected chain links relative to one another.

Furthermore, according to the first aspect, it can be provided in particular that at least some of the chain links and/or joint connectors of the strand are in a direction different from the longitudinal direction, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Joining direction can be connected to one another and/or detached from one another. Thus, under normal operating conditions, the connection between the links, in particular the joint connection, cannot be separated or released non-destructively by a tensile force acting in the longitudinal direction. Such a connection is more robust and the service life of the support chain is therefore increased.

Particularly preferred is a design such that when two adjacent chain links connected by a joint connector are pivoted between a stretched and an angled position, the joint connectors or joint elements are subjected to bending as intended. The joint connectors or joint elements have a flexible design, at least in the deformable area.

The joint connectors or joint elements can in particular be designed as separate, separate components, which can be connected to the chain links in a detachable or non-destructive manner. However, an alternative design is also conceivable in which the joint connectors or joint elements are one-piece components of the chain links, for example molded onto the chain links using two-component injection molding. Preferably, at least one end region of each joint connector can be detachably connected to an adjacent chain link. However, it is also conceivable that the chain links are formed by joining together two separate components, each of which includes a joint connector made in one piece with it. In this case too, the joining direction of the link components is preferably different from the longitudinal direction and can, for example, correspond to the transverse direction.

The respective chain link can have two outer side surfaces which are spaced apart from one another in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and which face away from one another and which delimit the chain link in the transverse direction. Here, the chain link is designed at least in some areas between the outer side surfaces with a continuous cross section or at least in some areas in cross section as a solid body. Particularly preferred is a design in which the joining direction, at least between joint connectors and chain links, runs essentially in the transverse direction.

In one embodiment it is provided that the strand is designed as a chain of a plurality of alternately interconnected chain links and separate joint connectors, which are designed as separate components, with each of the plurality of joint connectors preferably being releasably connected to two adjacent chain links.

In a particularly preferred design, the chain links are designed according to the following independent second aspect of the invention, the preferred features of which are also applicable to the first aspect and vice versa.

Further preferred design features for both aspects result from the relevant subclaims.

SECOND ASPECT

Alternatively or in addition to the first aspect, the above-mentioned object is achieved according to an independent second aspect in that in a support chain, in particular according to the preamble of claim 7, it is provided that the front upper part and the front lower part of the respective chain link are supported by a front free space are spaced apart from one another in a height direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, into which the rear lower part of a first adjacent chain link can be inserted or is inserted, and that the rear upper part and the rear lower part of the respective chain link are spaced apart from one another by a rear clearance in the height direction, into which the front upper part of a second adjacent chain link can be inserted or inserted.

This allows, in particular, a robust design of the connection of the chain links in the longitudinal direction, in which, in each relative position of the bend, intended tensile and compressive forces are at least predominantly transmitted via the chain links themselves, so that particularly preferably provided joint connectors according to the first aspect are not or only slightly stressed. In the second aspect, too, it is preferably provided that at least some of the chain links can be connected to one another and/or detached from one another in a joining direction that is different from the longitudinal direction, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, with the joining direction preferably running essentially in the transverse direction and/or the vertical direction . The joining direction of the links among each other preferably has no relevant component in the longitudinal direction, so that unwanted loosening during operation can be reliably avoided.

In the second aspect, the joint connectors according to the first aspect are preferably used, i.e. the support chain preferably comprises a plurality of joint connectors, which are preferably designed as separate components. The joint connectors have, in particular, elastically deformable areas in the bending direction of the chain links. Each of the plurality of joint connectors is particularly preferably releasably connectable to two adjacent chain links.

In an advantageous development of the second aspect it is provided that the front upper part has an upper projection projecting in the height direction and the rear upper part has an upper recess; and the rear lower part has a lower projection projecting in the height direction and the front lower part has a lower recess. In particular, it is further provided that the upper projection of the respective chain link is designed to engage in both the stretched and the angled position in the upper recess of the first adjacent chain link, and the lower projection of the respective chain link is designed to engage in both the stretched and the angled position is also formed in the lower recess of the second adjacent chain link in the angled position. As a result, both tensile and compressive force can be transmitted through the interaction of the projections and recesses in the stretched and angled positions.

Preferably, it is further provided that the upper projection extends from the rear free space of an adjacent chain link to the top of the upper recess for engagement in the upper recess is designed and the lower projection is designed to engage in the lower recess from the front free space of the other adjacent chain link towards the underside, particularly preferably where the clear height of the front free space is equal to or greater than the dimension of the rear lower part including the lower one Projection in the height direction and the clear height of the rear clearance is equal to or greater than the dimension of the front upper part including the upper projection in the height direction. As a result, the projections can be inserted or brought into engagement in the corresponding recesses by joining the chain links in the transverse direction Q or in the longitudinal direction L and moving them relative to one another in the height direction H. This can therefore be achieved without bending and without twisting or torsion of the chain links and thus also allows simple assembly of the support chain and simple replacement of individual sections if necessary, for example for preventative maintenance.

The members are preferably designed in such a way that the upper recess forms an opening from the rear free space to the top and/or the lower recess forms an opening from the front free space to the bottom. In this way, among other things, a maximum stop surface can be provided.

It can also be advantageously provided that the upper projection, the lower projection, the upper recess and the lower recess of the respective chain link each have a contact surface for bearing pressure and / or tensile force on a corresponding counter-contact surface of an adjacent chain link in the stretched Position and a contact surface for the pressure and / or tensile force taking contact with a corresponding counter contact surface of an adjacent chain link in the angled position, each of the stop surfaces preferably running transversely to the longitudinal direction.

Overall, all contact surfaces preferably run perpendicular to the travel plane, ie parallel to the transverse direction or so that transverse forces are avoided. In the angled and extended relative position, at least two pairs of stop surfaces preferably work together to transmit force, the pairs being diametrically opposite in longitudinal section with respect to the center of the link.

It is advantageously provided that the contact surfaces of the upper projection or the contact surfaces of the lower projection are at a respective angle to one another, and the contact surfaces of the upper recess or the contact surfaces of the lower recess are at a respective angle to one another, the difference being in the angular dimension between the angles of the upper projection and the upper recess, and the difference in angular dimensions between the angles of the lower projection and the lower recess, are preferably substantially the same size or the same size. Appropriate design of the angles ensures that several stops work together in pairs at the same time, thereby increasing the overall force-transmitting area.

In a further development, it is advantageously provided that the upper projection in the angled position is flush with the top of the chain link, in whose upper recess it engages, and / or the lower projection in the extended position is flush with the underside of the chain link, in whose lower recess it engages is designed. Overall, projection-free, flush external surfaces should be achieved in every operating position in order to avoid damage or wear to the casing.

A further increase in the areas for power transmission is achieved if the respective chain link on the front and rear upper part as well as on the front and rear lower part each has frontal contact surfaces, which are designed so that frontal contact surfaces of the front and rear upper part are in the stretched position the front contact surfaces of the front and rear upper parts of the adjacent chain link rest, and front contact surfaces of the front and rear lower parts in an angled position on the front contact surfaces of the adjacent chain link issue .

Preferably, both the front and the rear free spaces are or open into each of the outer side surfaces, so the free spaces are each accessible for inserting the rear lower part or the front upper part and / or a joint connector. This makes assembly and maintenance work easier and easier.

It is advantageous for power flow and/or mechanical conditions if the dimension of the respective joint connector in the transverse direction is more than 30%, in particular between 50% and 100%, of the distance between the outer side surfaces of the respective chain link. Preferably, the width of the joint connectors is essentially the same at this distance. Furthermore, it is favorable for the flow of force if the respective joint connector extends in relation to the transverse direction in a central area between the outer side surfaces of the chain links or is arranged centered on the center, so that no transverse forces can arise.

In a particularly robust embodiment, it is provided that each joint connector extends at least partially in relation to a height direction between the front upper part and the front lower part of one of the two adjacent chain links and the rear upper part and the rear lower part of the other of the two adjacent chain links. As a result, the joint connector also forms a lock to prevent the chain links from being released from their engagement. The joint connector can preferably prevent two adjacent chain links from being displaced in the height direction relative to one another by the associated joint connector, for example by blocking the necessary freedom of movement.

OTHER ADVANTAGEOUS FEATURES (BOTH ASPECTS)

Some preferred developments are discussed below, which - like the above features - can be seen as advantageous for both core aspects of the invention. The joint connectors are preferably designed as spring elements which, when adjacent chain links are bent, exert elastic restoring forces on these chain links, which cause an at least partial restoring movement of the chain links against the direction of bending. This dampens vibrations during the movement of the support chain and possibly the cable routing as a whole.

Preferably, the length of the elastically deformable region of each joint connector in the longitudinal direction is a multiple of the thickness of the respective joint connector in the height direction.

In particular, for the releasable fastening of separate joint connectors, it is advantageous if each joint connector has two fastening areas spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction and is fastened to each of the two adjacent chain links by one of the fastening areas against displacement in the longitudinal direction. The joint connector can be designed in such a way that at least two areas of the joint connector with at least one different property selected from the group of cross section, material thickness, and modulus of elasticity are provided with respect to the longitudinal direction between the fastening areas.

Each or the respective chain link preferably has two fastening receptacles for positive and/or non-positive interaction with one fastening area of the joint connector. Each fastening receptacle can preferably be formed between the front upper part and the front lower part or the rear upper part and the rear lower part of the respective chain link and / or the respective fastening receptacle can open into at least one of the side surfaces of the chain link, preferably open on both sides or be openly accessible .

Preferably, the joint connector can be inserted, in particular pressed, into the fastening receptacles of two adjacent chain links in the transverse direction from either side so that assembly is particularly easy.

The respective fastening receptacle is advantageously arranged in a central area between the Oder side and the underside with respect to the height direction. Preferably, the fastening receptacle has a substantially equal distance from the top and bottom.

To further avoid abrasion, it is advantageous if the respective chain link on the respective fastening receptacle, in particular at the transition from the fastening receptacle to the front or rear free space, has clamping surfaces that are spaced apart from one another in the height direction and face one another. These are designed to non-positively hold a fastening area of the associated joint connector and act against movement of the fastening area relative to the corresponding fastening receptacle, for example against displacement in the transverse direction and/or against rotation in the fastening receptacle. In this case, the respective joint connector can preferably have thickenings on the fastening areas in order to interact with the clamping surfaces.

In particular, to secure the position of mounted joint connectors or joint elements in the transverse direction, it can advantageously be provided that the respective joint connector has locking means in the fastening areas, which are designed to cooperate with complementary counter-locking means of the associated chain links.

Preferably, all or at least some of the joint connectors are designed as essentially plate-like components or as curved components in the plane in which the longitudinal direction and the height direction lie.

The joint connectors are preferably made of a permanently bendable plastic that is elastic relative to the chain links. The joint connectors and the chain links are preferably made of different materials.

To avoid lateral forces during operation, every Chain link and/or each joint connector made of a body which is mirror-symmetrical to its longitudinal center plane.

Each chain link can preferably consist of a block body, preferably of a one-piece block body, i.e. apart from weight-reducing tapers and openings, a body without completely internal cavities, in particular without a through opening in the longitudinal direction.

The two essential or only components of the support chain, i.e. the chain links and the joint connectors, can each be manufactured inexpensively, in particular as separate components, from plastic, in particular by injection molding.

The chain links and joint connectors can in particular be manufactured as separate, separate components which are detachably connected to one another. To link the strand that forms the support chain, each joint connector can preferably be releasably connected to at least one of the two chain links of an adjacent pair. However, a detachable connection within the chain links is also conceivable, particularly as a variant according to the first aspect. However, a design of the support chain with a large number of separate joint elements or joint connectors, which are designed as separate components and each have two end regions for releasably connecting to chain links and at least one deformable region in between, is preferred.

The proposed support chain, according to both the first and second aspects, is particularly suitable for use in a cable routing device for clean room applications.

Further details and advantages of the individual aspects of the invention can be found in the following explanation of preferred exemplary embodiments based on the accompanying drawings, without limiting the generality of the above. Features with a corresponding or identical structure or function have corresponding reference symbols and are, if necessary, . not described repeatedly. Show it:

FIG.l: a perspective view of a cable routing device for clean room applications, here with two coverings, in a purely exemplary operating position with a stretched, self-supporting upper run, a stretched, stationary lower run and a deflection arch in between;

FIG. 2: a cross section (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of an exemplary multi-layer structure with a number of stacked coverings for a large number of lines, with support chains being accommodated in receiving channels of some coverings;

FIG.3: a side view of a support chain according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG.4: Construction views of a single chain link of a support chain according to FIG.3 in side view (A), bottom view (B), top view (C), front view (D), rear view (E) and in longitudinal section (F);

FIG.5A-5B: Perspective views of the chain link according to FIG.4;

FIG.6: a longitudinal section of a partial length of the support chain made of chain links according to FIG.3-5, in a stretched position (left in FIG.6) and fully angled position (right in FIG.6), and

FIG.7: Construction views of an individual joint element according to an exemplary embodiment in side view (A), top view (B), and in perspective view (C), for a support chain according to FIG.3-5.

FIG.l shows an exemplary cable routing device 1 which guides supply lines 3 (FIG.2) between a fixed connection point 2 on a base and a movable connection point 4 on a movable driver. The driver is not shown in more detail and can typically be moved back and forth linearly along the longitudinal direction L. The supply lines 3 are cables, hoses or the like. and supply the moving part of a machine with power, signals and/or operating media, for example. FIG.l shows a snapshot of the cable routing arrangement 1 with a self-supporting, stretched upper run 5, if necessary a support lying lower strand 6 and a deflection bend 7. The deflection bend 7 has a predetermined bending radius or deflection radius around an imaginary deflection axis U. During operation, the deflection bend 7 moves back and forth relative to the fixed connection point 2 when the upper run 5 with the movable connection point 4 moves back or forth in the longitudinal direction L.

The line routing device 1 is particularly suitable and intended for clean rooms or other areas of application in which the release of particles should be reduced or avoided. For this purpose, it has one or more flexible coverings 8 made of soft-elastic plastic, extending in the longitudinal direction L, which enclose the supply lines 3 in a dust-tight manner along their entire length between the connection points 2 and 4. The ends of each covering 8 and the lines 3 are fastened at the ends to the connection points 2, 4, for example with end fastening devices 11 or end connections.

According to FIG. 2, each casing 8 has a number of tubular receiving channels 9 for guiding at least one or more supply lines 3. Each casing 8 is overall tubular and sufficiently flexible, among other things through suitable design and / or choice of material, to ensure a reversibly flexible curvature of the deflection bend 7 with little effort and to follow the movement in the longitudinal direction L with as little resistance as possible.

The line routing device 1 further has a number of support chains 10 which extend along the entire length of the line routing arrangement 1 from the connection point 2 to the connection point 4. In the purely exemplary arrangement according to FIG. 2, a multi-layer structure with several stacked layers of coverings 8 with lines 3 is shown. An inner support layer facing the deflection bend 7 is provided, in which 8 support chains 10 are provided in all receiving channels 9 of the casing (s), ie this inner support layer does not carry any lines 3. Additional support chains 10 can also be used in other layers, for example on the outside on the side To stabilize against transverse forces, be arranged in the casing(s) 8, cf. FIG.2. The wrapping 8 can comprise several separate casing units which are releasably connected to one another in the transverse direction, for example by fastening profiles or fastening straps 13 extending in the longitudinal direction L, as shown, for example, in FIG.2. The respective casing unit can, for example, have only one receiving channel 9, in which a support chain 10 is accommodated, and can be connectable to further casing units through the fastening profiles or fastening straps 13. This allows individual support chains 10 to be exchanged as required. With regard to the design of the casing 8, the teaching from WO 2020/148300 Al is incorporated by reference. In WO 2020/148300 A1, for example, with reference to FIGS. 9D, 10C, 10D, 13A-C, and 18A, 18B, casing units with only one receptacle and with fastening profiles or fastening straps for connecting the casing units are described.

A core function of the support chains 10 is to specify the radius of curvature of the deflection arc 7 or to limit its minimum radius around the deflection axis U. Another core function of each support chain 10 is to support the cantilevered length of the upper run 5 or to enable a sufficiently cantilevered length, especially in the fully extended position of the driver (not shown in FIG.l). Each support chain 10 supports the covering 8, in particular against sagging caused by gravity in the height direction H, or has a load-bearing effect. Depending on the load weight and length of the cable routing device 1, a sufficient number of support chains 10 are provided.

An exemplary embodiment of a support chain 10 according to the invention is described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 3-7.

3 shows a support chain 10 according to the invention in a designated position, namely folded around the deflection axis U, the support chain 10 forming two strands, an upper strand 5 and a lower strand 6, which extend in the longitudinal direction L, and a deflection arch 7. The deflection bend 7 is essentially U-shaped in the plane of FIG. 3, in which the longitudinal direction L and the height direction H lie. The design the support chain 10 determines the shape of the deflection bend 7 and the entire cable routing device 1. The deflection axis U runs perpendicular to the plane of FIG Upper strand 5 designed, ie the strands 5, 6 remain spaced apart from one another in the height direction H over the entire travel path.

The support chain 10 is designed as a type of link chain and consists of exactly one strand 12, which comprises a large number of individual chain links 20, which are releasably connected to one another in pairs by an articulated connection. Adjacent chain links 20, 20' of each pair can be angled relative to one another in a bending direction over a limited angle, for example approximately 5-20°, due to the articulated connection. The chain links 20, 20 'can be pivoted relative to one another between a stretched position (such as within the strands 5, 6) and an angled position (such as within the deflection arch 7), which allows the support chain 10 to be folded while maintaining a minimum permissible or possible radius of the deflection arch 7 allowed.

The respective joint connection comprises a joint connector 30, which releasably connects two adjacent chain links 20, 20 'that follow one another in the longitudinal direction L, and is explained in more detail below with reference to FIG. 7A-7C. For each pair of adjacent chain links 20, 20', in the example shown, exactly one separate, separate joint connector 30 is provided, which is releasably connected at one of its ends to one chain link 20 and at the other end to the other chain link 20'. Each chain link 20 within the strand 12 is in turn connected to a joint connector 30 on both sides or at both end regions of its longitudinal direction.

Chain links 20 and joint connectors 30 thus alternate in the longitudinal direction within the strand 12. The respective joint connector 30 comprises a deformable central region 32, which elastically acts on the joint connector 30 under the influence of an intended bending force acting on the joint connector 30 during the movement of the cable routing device 1 or the support chain 10 is deformable. The deformable region 32 is equally elastically deformable in the bending direction or against the bending direction of the associated adjacent chain links 20, 20 '.

As FIGS. 3-5 show, the adjacent chain links 20, 20' are designed to be interleaved and designed to be plugged into one another in such a way that the chain links 20, 20' themselves contribute to the respective joint connection through their shape or influence the degrees of freedom of the mutual pivoting. The chain links 20 interact with each other and with the joint connectors 30 in such a way that the strands 5, 6 remain stretched in the longitudinal direction L and do not sag downwards, and that the desired radius of the deflection bend 7 can be achieved and not exceeded. In the example shown, all chain links 20 of the support chain 10 are designed identically, and all joint connectors 30 are designed identically, so that the support chain 10 can be manufactured from only two essential components.

FIGS. 4-5 show a preferred embodiment of a single chain link 20, which combines two core aspects of the invention. FIG. 6 shows a partial length of a support chain 10 in a longitudinal section, with the stretched and angled positions of two chain lids 20 each being illustrated. Not shown in FIG.6 is a possible or advantageous pretensioning of the support chain 10 in its extended position. Below reference is made to FIG.3 and FIG. 4 to 6 taken to explain the design of the chain link 20.

The chain link 20 is preferably designed in one piece or in one piece and in particular is made of plastic using the same material by injection molding. However, it can also be assembled from several parts. The chain link 20 is designed in a block-like manner, with a top 204A, a bottom 204B, two outer side surfaces 23, and a front and a rear end face 231, 232. The dimension of the

Chain link 20 in the transverse direction Q, i.e. the width of the

Chain link 20 is approximately the same size as that Dimension in the height direction H, ie the height or the thickness of the chain link 20. The width of the chain link 20 can also be larger than its height in order to further reduce the torsion around the longitudinal direction L. The dimension in the longitudinal direction L, ie the length of the chain link, in the example shown is at least twice as large as the width and/or twice as large as the height. The length chosen depends on the desired chain pitch. The top 204A is the outer side of the chain link 20, which is arranged in a designated position of the chain link 20 within the support chain 10 on the side of the chain link 20 that is on the outside with respect to the deflection bend 7, ie on the side that is the deflection axis U or .facing away from the opposite strand (see FIG.3). The underside 204B is correspondingly the outer side of the chain link 20, which is arranged in a intended position of the chain link 20 within the support chain 10 on the side of the chain link 20 that is on the inside with respect to the deflection bend 7, ie on the side that corresponds to the deflection axis U or faces the opposite strand (see FIG. 3). The outer side surfaces 23 of the chain link 20 are the outer surfaces of the chain link 20, which delimit the respective chain link 20 in the transverse direction Q, ie are spaced apart from one another in the transverse direction Q and face away from one another. The front end face 231 faces the adjacent chain link 20' located within the support chain 10 in front of the chain link 20, and the rear end face 232 faces the adjacent chain link 20'' located inside the support chain 10 behind the chain link 20. In terms of area, the top 204A (FIG.4C), the bottom 204B (FIG.4B), and the outer side surfaces 23 (FIG.4A) are of approximately the same order of magnitude and are at least twice as large as a cross-sectional area of the chain link 20 perpendicular to the Longitudinal direction L.

The respective chain link 20 can be related to the

Longitudinal direction L can be mentally divided into a front longitudinal section 21 (which is on the right in FIG. 4) and a rear longitudinal section 22 (which is on the left in FIG. 4) (the terms "Front" and "back" only serve to differentiate and are fundamentally interchangeable). The front longitudinal section 21 includes a front upper part 201A on the upper side 204A and a front lower part 201B on the lower side 204B, which are spaced apart from one another in the height direction H by a front clearance 241. The rear longitudinal section 22 in turn comprises a rear upper part 202A on the upper side 204A and a rear lower part 202B on the underside 204B, which are spaced apart from one another in the height direction H by a rear clearance 242. Both the front free space 241 and the rear free space 242 are continuous in the transverse direction and open on each of the two outer side surfaces 23. The free space 241 and the free space 242 are thus accessible in front of the respective outer side surface 23 for inserting the rear lower part 202B or the front upper part 201A and a joint connector 30 (see below).

To explain this, three arbitrary chain links 20', 20 and 20'', which are successive within the support chain 10, are now considered, which are plugged together and connected to one another by articulated connectors 30, the middle chain link 20 being between the first adjacent, i.e. the front chain link 20'. and the second adjacent, i.e. the rear chain link 20 '' is arranged (see FIG. 6). The front upper part 201A of the middle chain link 20 is inserted into the rear clearance 242 of the front chain link 20'. The rear lower part 202B of the middle chain link 20 is inserted into the front clearance 241 of the rear chain link 20''.

The adjacent chain links 20, 20 ', 20'' are interlocked with one another in the longitudinal direction to transmit tension and pressure or to transmit tensile force and thrust force, so that they cannot be separated from one another in the longitudinal direction L, at least in some or preferably all angled relative positions relative to one another. For this purpose, the front upper part 201A has an upper projection 206A pointing upward in the height direction H, and the rear upper part 202A has an upper recess complementary to the upper projection 206A 208A. The upper projection 206A engages the upper recess 208A of the front chain link 20' from the rear clearance 242 of the front chain link 20' towards the top 204A. The rear lower part 202B has a lower projection 206B pointing downward in the height direction H, and the front lower part 201B has a lower recess 208B complementary to the lower projection 206B. The lower projection 206B engages in the lower recess 208B of the rear chain link 20'', namely from the front clearance 241 of the rear chain link 20'' towards its underside 204B. The projections 206A, 206B are designed so that they respectively engage with the corresponding recesses 208A, 208B in both the extended position and the angled position of the adjacent chain links 20, 20 'and the adjacent chain links 20, 20'' condition. As a result, the tensile and compressive forces in the longitudinal direction L can be transmitted when moving the support chain 10 through the interaction of the projections 206A, 206B and the recesses 208A, 208B, so that the joint connectors 30 do not have to be subjected to tension or pressure, or only insignificantly.

The recesses 208A, 208B are each designed to be continuous in the height direction H, ie as openings in the height direction H through the rear upper part 202A or front lower part 201B. However, the upper projection 206A does not protrude beyond the upper side 204A, ie does not protrude beyond the upper outer edge of the upper recess 208A (ie at the upper side 204A from the recess 208A) neither in the extended nor in the angled position of the adjacent chain links 20, 20 '. out. Likewise, the lower projection 206B does not protrude beyond the underside 204B, ie does not protrude beyond the lower outer edge of the lower recess 208B (ie on the underside 204B from the recess 208B) neither in the extended nor in the angled position of the adjacent chain links 20, 20 '. out. In the maximum possible, completely angled position, the upper projection 206A is flush with the top 204 of the front chain link 20 ', in whose upper recess 208A it engages. The lower projection In the straight or extended position, 206B is flush with the underside 204B of the rear chain link 20'', in whose lower recess 208B it engages.

As can best be seen in FIG. 6, the respective chain link has contact surfaces on its projections and recesses, which in the stretched or angled position rest on corresponding counter-contact surfaces of the adjacent chain link 20 ', 20' 'and thereby provide pressure. or. Transmit tensile force in the longitudinal direction L. In the extended position, the contact surface 216A of the upper projection 206A rests on the counter-contact surface 218A of the upper recess 208A. Accordingly, the contact surface 216B of the lower projection 206B rests on the counter-contact surface 218B of the lower recess 208B. In the fully or maximum possible angled position, the contact surface 226A of the upper projection 206A rests on the counter-contact surface 228A of the upper recess 208A. Accordingly, the contact surface 226B of the lower projection 206B rests on the counter-contact surface 228B of the lower recess 208B. The contact surfaces 216A, 216B, 218A, 218B, 226A, 226B, 228A, 228B, as seen in the longitudinal section, each run parallel to the transverse direction Q but obliquely to the longitudinal direction L.

The two abutment surfaces 216A, 226A of the upper projection 206A are inclined to one another at an angle aA, and the abutment surfaces 216B, 226B of the lower projection 206B are inclined to one another at a respective angle aB. The contact surfaces 218A, 228A of the upper recess 208A are inclined to one another at an angle βA and the contact surfaces 218B, 228B of the lower recess 208B are inclined to one another at an angle βB. The difference in angular dimensions between the angle aA of the projection 206A and βA of the upper recess 208A is equal to the difference in angular dimensions between the angle aB of the lower projection 206B and the angle βB of the lower recess 208B. As a result, both in the stretched position and in the completely angled position, there are two contact surfaces of the respective chain link 20, one at the bottom and one at the top, on the corresponding mating contact surfaces of an adjacent one Chain link 20 ', so that the tensile or compressive forces are transmitted more effectively and the projections are less stressed, especially in shear.

Furthermore, each chain link 20 has front contact surfaces 231, 232 on its end faces. In the extended position, the front contact surface 231A of the front upper part 201A rests on the front contact surface 232A of the rear upper part 202A of the front chain link 20 '. In the fully angled position, the front contact surface 231B of the front lower part 201B rests on the front contact surface 232B of the rear lower part 202B of the front chain link 20'. This allows effective transmission of thrust force in the extended position or in the angled position.

The clear height of the front clearance 241 is slightly larger than the corresponding dimension of the rear lower part 202B, ie the largest dimension in the height direction H in the area of the lower projection 206B. Thus, the rear lower part 202B of a front adjacent chain link 20 'can be inserted into the front free space 241 of the chain link 20, in the example shown both along the transverse direction Q and the longitudinal direction L. The lower projection 206B of the front chain link 20' can then be inserted into the height direction H can be inserted downwards from the front free space 241 into the lower recess 208B of the middle chain link 20. The clear height of the rear clearance 242 is in turn slightly larger than the largest dimension of the front upper part 201A, ie the dimension in the height direction H in the area of the upper projection 206A. Thus, the front upper part 201A of a rear adjacent chain link 20'' can be inserted into the rear free space 242 of the middle chain link 20, in the example shown both along the transverse direction Q and the longitudinal direction L. The upper projection 206A of the rear chain link 20 can then be inserted '' can be inserted upwards in the height direction H from the rear clearance 242 into the upper recess 208A of the middle chain link 20. Thus, the chain links 20, 20', 20'' (before being secured by hinge connectors 30) have two possible options Joining directions for putting together or taking apart without bending the chain links: along the transverse direction Q and along the longitudinal direction L, with subsequent movement in the height direction H. By inserting the projections 206A, 206B in the height direction, ie perpendicular to each joining direction, into engagement with the The following chain link 20, 20 ', 20''a type of locking is implemented. This can also avoid separation of the support chain 12 during operation, especially in cooperation with the inclined contact surfaces 216A, 226A or 216B, 226B as well as 218A, 228A or 218B, 228B, which engage the projections 206A, 206B under tensile load pull. The front contact surfaces 231A, 231B, 232A, 232B also act accordingly, so that under shear load, the chain links 20, 20 ', 20''tend more strongly into the engaged position through a kind of wedge effect.

When a joint connector 30 is inserted between two chain links 20, 20 ', it extends between the front upper part 241A and front lower part 241B of the one chain link 20 and the rear upper part 242A and the rear lower part 242B of the front chain link 20 ', thereby taking a part of the front free space 241 of the chain link 20 and a part of the rear free space 242 of the front chain link 20 ', so that the clear height of the respective free space becomes smaller, namely smaller than the largest dimension of the front upper part 201A or the rear Lower part 202B. This already means that the chain links 20 are reliably and permanently secured against accidental separation from one another in the manner of a lock, since the projections 206A, 206B cannot escape from the recesses 208A, 208B of the neighboring ones without bending or even breaking the chain links 20, 20', 20'' Chain link can be removed.

The chain link 20 consists of a body that is mirror-symmetrical to its longitudinal center plane (L-H), so that the force is transmitted between the interacting surfaces under tensile and shear loads without components in the transverse direction Q.

In FIG.3-6 you can also see that each chain link has 20 has a recess 25 for weight reduction, which in the example shown is designed as an approximately circular cylindrical through opening in the transverse direction Q, which opens into the two outer side surfaces 23 and lies in the middle between the fastening receptacles 36 with respect to the longitudinal direction L. The recess 25 can also have a different shape in the side view as in FIG. 4A, for example an oval section. The transitions from the recess 25 to the side surfaces 23 are preferably rounded.

FIG.7A-7C show an exemplary embodiment of the joint connector 30, which is designed here as a substantially plate-like component made of plastic. The main extension and main plane of the joint connector 30 runs in the longitudinal direction L and transverse direction Q. It can also be designed as a component that is curved or partially curved in the height direction H. The joint connector 30 has a deformable region 32 in the central region with respect to the longitudinal direction L. The joint connector 30 has a fastening area 34 at each of its longitudinal ends. Each fastening area 34 is used to fasten to one of the two adjacent chain links 20, 20'. The fastening area 34 can have a constant shape and size in the transverse direction Q. The chain link 20 in turn has two fastening receptacles 36 spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction L and facing away from one another, for receiving one fastening area 34 in each case. Each chain link 20 can be connected to two joint connectors 30 and thereby to a front and a rear chain link 20 ', 20'' become. The one or front fastening receptacle 36 is arranged in relation to the height direction H between the front upper part 201A and the front lower part 201B of the chain link 20 and represents an indentation of the front free space 241. The other or rear fastening receptacle 36 is arranged between the rear upper part 202A and the rear lower part 202B of the chain link 20 with respect to the height direction H and represents an indentation of the rear clearance 242. The respective fastening receptacle 36 is preferably equidistant from the top 204A and the bottom 204B Chain link 20. The respective fastening receptacle 36 also opens openly into each of the outer side surfaces 23 of the chain link 20. Each fastening receptacle 36 has a consistent shape and size along the transverse direction Q and is adapted to the shape of the fastening area 34, so that the fastening area 34, preferably exclusively , can be inserted into the fastening receptacle 36 along the transverse direction Q and is secured at least positively in the fastening receptacle 36 against displacement in the longitudinal direction L. Thus, the joint connector 30 can be connected to two successive chain links 20, 20' by inserting the joint connector 30 between the chain links 20, 20' along the transverse direction Q and can be removed again along the transverse direction Q. The dimension of the joint connector 30 in the transverse direction Q, ie its width, is equal to the distance of the outer side surfaces 23 of the chain link 20 from one another, so that in the intended connected state, the joint connector 30 ends in the transverse direction Q flush on both sides with the respective outer side surface 23 of the chain link 20 chain link.

An articulated connector 30 connected to the two successive chain links 20, 20' prevents the chain links 20, 20' from moving relative to one another in the height direction H and thus also prevents the projections 206A, 206B of the chain link 20 from being released from the recesses 208A, 208B of the adjacent chain link 20 ', 20''. However, the tensile and compressive forces are at least predominantly absorbed by the interaction of the contact surfaces of the chain links 20, 20 ', 20'' (preferably at least two contact surfaces per chain link at the same time, as described above, so that the forces are distributed over a larger area). and transferred, so that the articulated connection of the linked chain links 20 can absorb particularly high tensile/compressive forces. The above design is also made possible by the fact that the chain links 20, 20 ', 20 '' are not connected to one another or can be separated from one another in the longitudinal direction L, but only essentially perpendicular thereto. During operation, the joint connectors 30 are at least predominantly subjected to bending, but only slightly or not subjected to tension or compression (are affected by the tension /Compressive stress relieved by the interlocked chain links 20). The joint connectors 30 can therefore be made from another material that is particularly suitable for frequent bending changes, which is different from the tensile and more rigid material of the chain links 20.

In the example shown, the respective fastening area 34 is designed as a circular cylindrical thickening relative to the central deformable area 32, which is rounded in longitudinal section. Other shapes are also possible, for example a cup shape or a triangular shape, to avoid rotation of the attachment area 34, which would create abrasion. In the example shown, twisting of the fastening areas 34 is also avoided in that the chain link 20 on the fastening receptacle 36 has two clamping surfaces 37 spaced apart from one another in the height direction H and facing one another, which extend in the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction Q and with a slight Thickening 38 on the fastening area 34 of the joint connector 30 cooperate and hold it non-positively against twisting, but also against displacement in the transverse direction Q. The thickening 38 is thus received in the intended operational state of the support chain 10 by pressing or in a press fit between the clamping surfaces 37. This not only prevents the fastening area 34 from rotating in the fastening receptacle 36, but also prevents the joint connector 30 from being accidentally released from the support chain 10 in the transverse direction Q. To remove the joint connector, a force must be applied in the transverse direction Q, which cannot occur under normal operating conditions.

In addition, the respective fastening area 34 and the fastening receptacle 36 have mutually corresponding locking means 39, 39 ', which lock with one another against displacement in the transverse direction Q and here, for example, in the form of a circumferential notch or groove 39 on the fastening area 34 of the joint connector 30 (cf. 7B, 7C), and a corresponding elevation 39 'in the fastening receptacle 36 of the chain link 20 (see FIG. 4D, 4E).

The joint connector 30 is in the form of a hinge Spring element executed, which acts in the manner of a leaf spring when two chain links 20 are bent, ie has spring-elastic properties. In the event of a normal deformation, ie when the adjacent chain links 20, 20', which are connected to the joint element 30, are pivoted relative to one another, the joint connector 30 exerts an elastic restoring force on these chain links 20, 20' in the direction opposite to the pivoting. This results in a low-vibration and uniform movement of the support chain 10, which, among other things, reduces wear on the projections 206A, 206B of the chain links and overall counteracts the formation of abrasion.

At least the elastically or resiliently deformable region 32 or the entire joint connector 30 is made from a material that differs from the material of the chain link 20, for example from a different plastic with a different modulus of elasticity. In addition, the shape of the deformable area 32 also determines its resilient properties. The length of the deformable region 32 in the longitudinal direction L, and optionally also its width in the transverse direction Q, are each a multiple of its material thickness or dimension in the height direction H. Bending forces when pivoting the chain links 20 act, among other things, in the height direction H transverse to the longitudinal direction L on the deformable area 32 of the joint connector 30. In other embodiments, the deformable area 32 can be curved in longitudinal section to influence its flexibility, or can be formed, for example, from two layers or layers spaced apart from one another in the height direction H by a free space, which are in the fastening areas 34 come together. Other shapes in the longitudinal section and possibly also in the cross section to influence the moment of inertia of the deformable region 32 are also possible.

Alternatively, the joint connector can also be designed in such a way that essentially no restoring forces are exerted, for which purpose, for example, a film hinge-like joint area can be provided.

By using the flexible joint connectors 30 in the support chain 10 according to the invention, in particular the The typical joint/pin joint connection of typical support chains can be avoided, so that the abrasion that is unavoidable is also avoided.

PE/ba-tb

Applicant: igus GmbH 51147 Cologne

Reference symbol list

1 cable routing device

2 , 4 connections

3 supply lines

5, 6 dreams

7 deflection bends

8 wrapping

9 recording channels

10 support chain

11 End fastening device

12 strand

13 fastening profiles or fastening straps

20 , 20 20 '' chain link

21 front longitudinal section of a chain link

22 rear longitudinal section of a chain link

23 outer side surfaces

25 recess for weight reduction

30 joint connectors

32 deformable area of the joint connector

34 Fastening area of the joint connector

36 fastening holder for the chain link

37 clamping surface of the chain link

38 Thickening at the attachment area of the joint connector

39 locking means of the joint connector

39' counter-locking means of the chain link

201A front top part of a chain link

201B front lower part of a chain link

202A rear top part of a chain link

202 B rear lower part of a chain link 204A Top of a chain link

204B Underside of a chain link

206A upper projection

206B lower ledge

208A upper recess

208 B lower recess

216A, 226A upper projection stop surfaces

216B, 226B stop surfaces of the lower projection aA angle between the stop surfaces of the upper

Projection aB Angle between the stop surfaces of the lower

projection

218A, 228A stop surfaces of the upper recess

218 B, 228 B stop surfaces of the upper recess ßA angle between the stop surfaces of the upper

Recess ßB angle between the stop surfaces of the lower

recess

231, 232 front or rear face of a chain link

231A front contact surface of the front upper part s

232A front contact surface of the rear upper part s

231B front contact surface of the front lower part

232 B front contact surface of the rear base

241 front clearance of a chain link

242 rear clearance of a chain link

A Distance between the outer side surfaces of the chain link

H height direction

L longitudinal direction

Q Transverse direction

U deflection axis

Claims

Claims Line routing device (1), in particular for clean room applications, for the protected routing of supply lines (3), such as cables, hoses or the like, between two connection points (2, 4), at least one of which is movable relative to the other, the line routing device ( 1) runs in a longitudinal direction (L) and goes back and forth, forming two strands (5, 6) and a deflection arch connecting the strands and in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and a height direction (H) lie (7) is movable, the cable routing device (1) comprising:

- a flexible casing (8) with a number of receiving channels (9) arranged next to one another and extending in the longitudinal direction (L), each for at least one supply line (3), and

- at least one support chain (10), which can be arranged or arranged in a receiving channel (9) to support the cable routing device (1), the support chain (10) being designed to form the strands (5, 6) and the deflection bend (7). is, characterized in that the support chain (10) consists, at least in one longitudinal section, of a strand (12) which has successive chain links (20) and joint connectors (30) alternating in the longitudinal direction (L), the joint connectors (30) each a deformable region (32) which in a bending direction is in particular elastically deformable, the joint connectors (30) each holding two adjacent chain links (20, 20') together, the chain links (20, 20') being pivotable relative to one another in or against the bending direction, between a stretched and a angled position, and that at least some of the chain links (20) and / or joint connectors (30) of the strand (12) can be connected to one another and / or detached from one another in a joining direction different from the longitudinal direction (L), in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L). are.

2. Support chain (10) for supporting a cable routing device (1) with a flexible covering (8), in particular according to claim 1, wherein the support chain (10) in a longitudinal direction

(L) runs and is designed to form two strands (5, 6) and a deflection arch (7) connecting the strands (5, 6) and in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and a height direction (H) lie is, characterized in that the support chain (10) consists, at least in one longitudinal section, of a strand (12) which has successive chain links (20) and joint connectors (30) alternating in the longitudinal direction (L), the joint connectors (30) each a deformable region (32) which is in particular elastically deformable in a bending direction, the joint connectors (30) each holding two adjacent chain links (20, 20') together, the chain links (20, 20') being in or against each other the bending direction can be pivoted, between a stretched and an angled position, and that at least some of the chain links (20) and / or joint connectors (30) of the strand (12) in a direction different from the longitudinal direction (L), in particular to the longitudinal direction (L) vertical, joining direction can be connected to one another and/or detached from one another.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the respective chain link (20) is two from one another in a transverse direction (Q). has outer side surfaces (23) spaced perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction (L) and facing away from one another, which delimit the chain link (20) in the transverse direction (Q), the chain link (20) preferably having a continuous cross section at least in some areas between the outer side surfaces (23). or is designed as a solid body. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, in particular according to 3, characterized in that the joining direction runs essentially in the transverse direction (Q). Device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the strand (12) is designed as a chain of a plurality of alternately interconnected chain links (20) and separate joint connectors (30), which are designed as separate components, each of the plurality of joint connectors ( 30) is preferably detachably connected to two adjacent chain links (20, 20 '). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the respective chain link (20) of the plurality of chain links (20) has a front longitudinal section (21) and a rear longitudinal section (22) with respect to the longitudinal direction (L). ), wherein the front longitudinal section

(21) of the respective chain link (20) is designed to interact positively with a rear longitudinal section (22) of an adjacent chain link (20) for transmitting tensile and/or compressive forces in the longitudinal direction (L), the front longitudinal section (21 ) has a front upper part (201A) on an upper side (204A) which is on the outside with respect to the deflection bend (7) and a front lower part (201B) on an underside (204B) which is on the inside with respect to the deflection bend (7), and the rear longitudinal section

(22) has a rear upper part (202A) on the top (204A) and a rear lower part (202B) on the underside (204B), the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) of the respective chain link (20) are spaced apart from each other by a front clearance (241) in the height direction (H), into which the rear lower part (202B) is first adjacent chain link (20 ') can be inserted or inserted, and wherein the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the respective chain link (20) are spaced apart from one another in the height direction (H) by a rear clearance (242). , in which the front top part

(201A) of a second adjacent chain link (20'') can be inserted or inserted. Support chain (10) for supporting a cable routing device (1) with a flexible covering (8), in particular according to claim 1, wherein the support chain (10) has a plurality of individual chain links (20) which are used to form strands stretched in a longitudinal direction (L). (5,6) and a U-shaped deflection bend (7) which connects the strands and can be articulated or connected to one another in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and a height direction (H) lie, with two adjacent chain links in each case (20) can be pivoted relative to one another between an extended and an angled position, the respective chain link (20) of the plurality of chain links (20) having a front longitudinal section (21) and a rear longitudinal section (22) with respect to the longitudinal direction (L). , wherein the front longitudinal section (21) of the respective chain link (20) is designed to interact positively with a rear longitudinal section (22) of an adjacent chain link (20) for transmitting tensile and / or compressive forces in the longitudinal direction (L), wherein the front longitudinal section (21) has a front upper part (201A) on an upper side (204A) of the chain link (20) which is on the outside with respect to the deflection bend (7) and a front lower part (201B) on an underside which is on the inside with respect to the deflection bend (7) ( 204B) of the chain link (20), and the rear longitudinal section (22) has a rear upper part (202A) on the top (204A) and a rear lower part (202B) on the underside (204B) of the chain link (20), the respective Chain link (20) has two outer side surfaces (23) spaced apart from one another in a transverse direction (Q) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and facing away from one another, which Limit chain link (20) in the transverse direction (Q), characterized in that

-the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) of the respective chain link (20) through a front clearance

(241) are spaced apart from one another in a height direction (H) transverse to the longitudinal direction (L), into which the rear lower part (202B) of a first adjacent chain link (20 ') can be inserted or inserted, and that

-the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the respective chain link (20) through a rear clearance

(242) are spaced apart from one another in the height direction (H), into which the front upper part (201A) of a second adjacent chain link (20 '') can be inserted or inserted. Support chain according to claim 7, characterized in that at least some of the chain links (20) can be connected to one another and/or detached from one another in a joining direction that is different from the longitudinal direction (L), in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), the joining direction preferably being substantially runs in the transverse direction (Q). Support chain (10) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the support chain (10) comprises a plurality of joint connectors (30), which are preferably designed as separate components, the joint connectors (30) being particularly elastic in the bending direction of the chain links (20). have deformable areas (32), each of the plurality of joint connectors (30) being particularly preferably releasably connectable to two adjacent chain links (20). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that

- the front upper part (201A) has an upper projection (206A) projecting in the height direction (H) and the rear upper part (202A) has an upper recess (208A); and

- the rear lower part (202B) has a lower projection (206B) projecting in the height direction (H) and the front Lower part (201B) has a lower recess (208B); wherein the upper projection (206A) of the respective chain link (20) is designed to engage in both the extended and angled positions in the upper recess (208A) of the first adjacent chain link (20 '), and the lower projection (206B) of the respective chain link (20) is designed to engage in both the extended and angled positions in the lower recess (208B) of the second adjacent chain link (20 ''), preferably wherein the upper projection (206A) is designed to engage in the upper Recess (208A) is formed from the rear free space (242) of the one adjacent chain link (20') towards the top (204A) and the lower projection (206B) for engaging in the lower recess (208B) from the front free space (241 ) of the other adjacent chain link (20'') is designed towards its underside (204B), particularly preferably the clear height of the front free space (241) is equal to or greater than the dimension of the rear lower part (202B) including the lower projection ( 206B) in the height direction (H) and the clear height of the rear clearance (242) is equal to or greater than the dimension of the front upper part (202A) including the upper projection (206A) in the height direction (H). Device (1, 10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the upper recess (208A) forms an opening from the rear free space (242) to the top (204A) and / or the lower recess (208B) forms an opening from the front free space (241 ) outgoing breakthrough to the bottom (204B). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the upper projection (206A), the lower projection (206B), the upper recess (208A) and the lower recess (208B) of the respective chain link (20 ) each have a contact surface (216A, 216B, 218A, 218B) for contacting a corresponding one to absorb pressure and/or tensile force Have a counter-contact surface of an adjacent chain link (20 ') in the extended position and a contact surface (226A, 226B, 228A, 228B) for receiving pressure and / or tensile force on a corresponding counter-contact surface of an adjacent chain link (20 ') in the angled position , each of the stop surfaces (216A, 216B, 218A, 218B, 226A, 226B, 228A, 228B) preferably running transversely to the longitudinal direction (L).

13. Device (1, 10) according to claim 12, characterized in that the contact surfaces (216A, 226A) of the upper projection (206A) or the contact surfaces (216B, 226B) of the lower projection

(206B) are at a respective angle (ctA, aB) to one another, and the contact surfaces (218A, 228A) of the upper recess (208A) or the contact surfaces (218B, 228B) of the lower recess

(208B) are at a respective angle (ßA, ßB) to one another, the difference in the angular measure between the angles (aA, ßA) of the upper projection (206A) and the upper recess (208A), and the difference in the angular measure between the angles (aB, ßB) of the lower projection (206B) and the lower recess (208B), preferably substantially the same size or the same size.

14. Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the upper projection (206A) in the angled position is flush with the top (204A) of the chain link (20 '), in its upper recess (208A ) it engages, and/or the lower projection (206B) in the extended position is designed to be flush with the underside (204B) of the chain link (20''), in whose lower recess (208B) it engages.

15. Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 6 to 14, characterized in that the respective chain link (20) on the front and rear upper part (201A, 202A) and on the front and rear lower part (201B, 202B) respectively has frontal contact surfaces (231A, 232A, 231B, 232B), which are designed such that frontal contact surfaces (231A, 232A) of the front and rear upper parts (201A, 202A) in the stretched position on the frontal contact surfaces (231A, 232A) of the front and rear upper parts (201A, 202A) of the adjacent chain link (20 '), and front contact surfaces (231B, 232B) of the front and rear lower parts

(201B, 202B) in an angled position on the front contact surfaces (231B, 232B) of the neighboring one

Chain link (20'). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 6 to 15, characterized in that both the front and the rear free space (241, 242) open openly into each of the outer side surfaces (23). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in

- that the dimension of the respective joint connector (30) in the transverse direction (Q) is more than 30%, in particular between 50% and 100%, of the distance (A) of the outer side surfaces (23) of the respective chain link (20) from one another, preferably the Distance (A) is essentially the same, and / or

- that the respective joint connector (30) extends in a central region between the outer side surfaces (23) of the chain links (20) with respect to the transverse direction (Q). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 6 or 9 to 17, characterized in that each joint connector (30) is at least partially between the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) with respect to a height direction (H). of one of the two adjacent chain links (20) and the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the other of the two adjacent chain links (20). Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the joint connectors (30) are designed as spring elements which, when adjacent chain links (20) are bent, exert elastic restoring forces on these chain links (20), which are at least one cause partial restoring movement of the chain links (20) against the bending direction. Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the length of the elastically deformable region (32) of the respective joint connector (30) in the longitudinal direction (L) is a multiple of the thickness of the respective joint connector (30). in the height direction (H) is . Device (1, 10) according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the respective joint connector (30) has two fastening regions (34) spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction (L) and on each of the two adjacent chain links (20) through each one of the fastening areas (34) is fastened against displacement in the longitudinal direction (L). Device (1, 10) according to claim 21, characterized in that with respect to the longitudinal direction (L) between the fastening areas (34) at least two areas of the joint connector (30) with at least one different property selected from the group of cross section, material thickness and modulus of elasticity are provided . Device (1, 10) according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the respective chain link (20) has two fastening receptacles (36) for positive and/or non-positive interaction with one fastening area (34), each fastening receptacle (36) preferably is formed between the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) or the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the respective chain link (20); and/or wherein the respective fastening receptacle (36) opens openly into at least one of the side surfaces (23) of the chain link (20), preferably both. Device (1, 10) according to claim 23, characterized in that the respective fastening receptacle (36) with respect to the height direction (H) is in a middle area between the Or side (204A) and the bottom (204B) is arranged, preferably wherein the fastening receptacle (36) has a substantially equal distance from the top (204A) and the bottom (204B). Device (1, 10) according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that the respective chain link (20) on the respective fastening receptacle (36), in particular at the transition from the fastening receptacle (36) to the front or rear free space (241, 242 ) has clamping surfaces (37) spaced apart from one another in the height direction (H) and facing one another, which are designed to non-positively hold a fastening area (34) of the associated joint connector (30) and to prevent movement of the fastening area (34) relative to the corresponding fastening receptacle (36 ) act, the respective joint connector (30) preferably having thickenings (38) on the fastening areas (34) for cooperation with the clamping surfaces (37). Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective joint connector (30) has locking means (39) in the fastening areas (34), which cooperate with complementary counter-locking means (39 ') of the associated chain links (20). , preferably against displacement in the transverse direction (Q), are designed. Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least some of the joint connectors (30) are designed as essentially plate-like components or as curved in the plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and the height direction (H) lie Components are executed. Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the joint connectors (30) are made of plastic and/or that the joint connectors (30) and the chain links (20) are made of different materials

materials exist. Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each chain link (20) and/or each joint connector (30) consists of a body which is mirror-symmetrical to its longitudinal center plane (LH); and/or each chain link (20) consists of a block body, preferably a one-piece block body. Device (1, 10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each chain link (20) and/or each joint connector (30) is made in one piece from plastic, in particular by injection molding.