KR20250002567A - Line guide devices and support chains for cleanroom applications - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a line guide device (1) comprising an envelope (8) and a support chain (10), and to the support chain itself, wherein the support chain is composed of alternately arranged chain links (20) and joint connectors (30) having a deformable region (32) and holding two adjacent chain links (20) (rotatable with respect to each other). The chain links (20) and/or the joint connectors (30) are connectable to each other and/or separable from each other in a joining direction other than the longitudinal direction of the chain. The present invention also relates to a support chain (10) comprising chain links (20) connected to each other for transmitting tensile and/or compressive forces. The rear lower portion (202B) of the first adjacent chain link (20') is insertable into the front space (241) between the front upper portion (201A) and the front lower portion (201B) of each chain link (20), and the front upper portion (201A) of the second adjacent chain link (20") is insertable into the rear space (242) between the rear upper portion (202A) and the rear lower portion (202B) of each chain link (20).

Description

Line guide devices and support chains for cleanroom applications

The invention relates generally to line guide devices for the protected dynamic guidance of supply lines, such as cables, hoses or the like, in the longitudinal direction between two connecting points, at least one of which is movable relative to the other, in particular for cleanroom applications. Such dynamic or active line guide devices protect the lines from unintended stresses during movement between a generally fixed connection point and a mobile consumer, for example on a machine. They are typically displaceable linearly in the longitudinal direction or back and forth in the plane of movement and typically form two runs substantially extending in the longitudinal direction of the guide and a deflection arc between them. The deflection arc is typically approximately U-shaped and curved around a deflection axis extending transversely to the longitudinal direction. The deflection arc is thus approximately U-shaped in the plane in which the longitudinal and height directions lie. In the intended operating state, the line guide device is rotated backwards in the deflection arc, so that one of the runs can merge into the deflection arc and thereby into the other run.

The present invention also relates in particular to a support chain in itself for such a line guide device.

The present invention relates in particular to a line guide device for cleanroom applications having a flexible envelope having a plurality of longitudinally extending receiving ducts arranged directly next to each other and enclosing the supply lines to protect them from dust, each of the ducts typically accommodating at least one supply line. The envelope is intended in particular to prevent any wear material from the line, which is inevitably formed during the moving movement, from being released into the surroundings. Furthermore, an envelope made of a suitable material can improve the overall wear behavior.

For stabilization or for longer lengths, in particular for supporting the line guides in an extended position of a self-supporting or unsupported run, what are known as support chains are used. For this purpose, the support chains, rather than the lines, can be placed in the receiving duct and can assume an extended position to form a run and an arc-shaped position to form a deflection arc, where the support chains also have a predetermined desired radius.

Depending on the load weight, for example, two support chains are used laterally outside the envelope. Multilayer structures are also known in which more than two support chains are used in the envelope of the support layer, even including layers without lines at all, i.e. having only support chains in the envelope of one layer.

Such a line guide device having a support chain is proposed, for example, in WO2021/116467 A1. A typical support chain of this type comprises a plurality of chain links, which are articulated or connected longitudinally. Each pair of adjacent or consecutive chain links is rotatably connected to one another by an articulated joint in the bending direction or against the bending direction.

The two chain links are implemented so that they can rotate relative to each other between an extended position and a bent position in the plane in which the longitudinal and height directions lie. In this way, the support chain is displaceable so that it forms two essentially longitudinally extending runs and a deflection arc connecting the runs. In this case, the deflection arc is generally essentially U-shaped in the plane in which the longitudinal and height directions lie. Such a support chain ensures in particular that a certain radius is maintained in the deflection arc, i.e. that the line is protected against kinking. In addition, the length is increased, since the support chain primarily enables a greater self-supporting length of the upper run. In order that such a support chain can be used instead of the lines of the envelope, it typically has particularly compact dimensions, at least in cross-section, in particular in comparison with a conventional energy chain. The conventional support chain itself therefore typically and preferably does not have a receiving duct for the lines.

The articulated joint of WO2021/116467 A1 is implemented in the form of a pin/receptacle rotary joint connection, wherein each chain link has two transversely protruding joint pins and two complementary joint receptacles in which the joint pins are rotatably received. A disadvantage here is that the friction between each joint pin and the joint receptacle releases particles during operation, which is particularly undesirable in a cleanroom. As mentioned above, the support chain and the guide supply lines are inserted into the envelope. The support chain can wear out faster than the supply lines, which requires either replacing the entire envelope, or opening the envelope and replacing the support chain, or providing a separate envelope unit specific to the support chain. It is therefore necessary to increase the service life of the support chain. A weak point of the known support chains can be the articulated joints, which are exposed to significant shear forces and alternating stresses during the reciprocating movement, for example in the case of pin/receptacle rotary joints.

Each of the chain links according to WO2021 116467 A1 has, in the longitudinal direction, a forward longitudinal part and a rear longitudinal part. In particular, the two longitudinal parts are suitably shaped for connecting the chain links in a predetermined articulation manner, such that the predetermined geometry of the deflection arc is maintained.

A chain link according to WO2021/116467 A1 has a space between two side parts in the rear longitudinal part, into which a further rear chain link leading to the support chain or a front longitudinal part of an adjacent chain link can be longitudinally inserted, and two longitudinally spaced recesses, one at the uppermost part of the chain link, i.e. on the outer side of the deflection arc, and one at the lowermost part, i.e. on the inner side of the deflection arc. The front longitudinal part has two projections which project in the height direction for interacting with the transverse connecting portion. When the chain links are joined together, the lower projections project into the lower recesses in the extended position of the two chain links and the upper projections project into the upper recesses in the fully bent position of the two chain links.

However, in the configuration of the support chain according to the teaching of WO2021/116467 A1, there is a position of the two chain links relative to each other between a straight position and a completely bent position, in which neither of the projections interacts with the recess or only a very small common working area. In such a position, the chain links can separate from each other in the longitudinal direction or excessive loads can lead to breakage.

In the case of intended displacements, the support chain is subjected to tensile or compressive stresses, in particular in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, according to WO2021 116467 A1, in the above-mentioned intermediate positions, the tensile forces can only be transmitted by the pin/bore joint. In this case, the hinge pin is subjected to shear stresses in particular. This reduces the maximum service life of the support chain or requires undesirably bulky structures.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to propose a line guide device, or a support chain for a line guide device, which has a support chain which is intended to be more robust, more suitable for transmitting tensile and compressive forces, to have a longer service life and at the same time to have a maximally compact structure, particularly in the cross-section of the chain links. This object is achieved by the line guide device or the support chain according to claim 1 or 2 and independently therefrom by the support chain according to independent claim 7.

According to an independent first aspect, in a general line guide device according to the preamble of claim 1, or in a support chain according to the preamble of claim 2, the above-mentioned object is simply achieved in that the support chain consists of at least a longitudinal portion of the strand having alternately continuous chain links and joint connectors in the longitudinal direction, the joint connectors in each case comprising a deformable region which is elastically deformable in particular in the bending direction, the joint connectors in each case holding together two adjacent chain links, in particular in the longitudinal direction.

Here, joint connectors or joint elements having a bendable or deformable area make it possible in particular to avoid the typical pin/receptacle joint type of link chain and the accompanying wear.

Here the chain links are in particular rotatable relative to one another in the bending direction or vice versa between an extended position and a bent position of two adjacent and mutually connected chain links in each case.

Furthermore, according to the first aspect, provision can be made in particular for at least some of the chain links and/or joint connectors of strands which are connectable together and/or separable from one another in a connecting direction which is not longitudinal, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Thus, under normal operating conditions, the connection between the links, in particular the articulated joint, cannot be non-destructively split or separated by tensile forces acting in the longitudinal direction. Such a connection is robust and thus the service life of the support chain is increased.

In one particularly preferred configuration, when two adjacent chain links are connected by a joint connector between an extended position and a bent position, the joint connectors or joint elements are intentionally subjected to bending stresses. In this case, the joint connectors or joint elements have an elastic configuration at least in the deformable region.

The joint connectors or joint elements can in particular be embodied as separate, discrete components, which are detachably or non-destructively connected to the chain links. However, an alternative configuration is also conceivable, in which the joint connectors or joint elements are integral components of the chain link and are moulded into the chain link, for example by means of two-component injection moulding. At least one end region of each joint connector is preferably detachably connectable to an adjacent chain link here. However, it is also conceivable that the chain link is formed by fitting together two separate components, which in each case comprise a joint connector produced integrally with them. In this case too, the joining direction of the link components is preferably different from the longitudinal direction, for example corresponding to the transverse direction.

Each chain link may have two outer side faces spaced apart from each other in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and directed away from each other and transversely bounding the chain link. In this case, the chain link is implemented at least at positions between the outer side faces having a continuous cross-section or as a solid body.

A particularly desirable configuration is one in which the direction of engagement between at least the joint connectors and the chain links is substantially transverse.

In one embodiment, provision is made for a strand to be formed as a connection of a plurality of chain links (20) implemented as separate components and alternately connected together, and separate joint connectors (30), wherein each of the plurality of joint connectors is preferably releasably connected to two adjacent chain links in each case.

In one particularly preferred configuration, the chain links are configured according to the following independent second aspect of the present invention, the preferred features of which are likewise applicable to the first aspect and vice versa.

Additional desirable compositional features related to both aspects are revealed by the relevant dependent claims.

Second aspect

As an alternative or additional aspect to the first aspect, the above-mentioned object is achieved in the case of a support chain by an independent second aspect, in particular by the preamble of claim 7, in which provision is made for a front upper part and a front lower part of each chain link which are spaced apart from each other in height transverse to the longitudinal direction by a front space - the rear lower part of the first adjacent chain link being insertable or insertable into the front space - and for a rear upper part and a rear lower part of each chain link which are spaced apart from each other in height by a rear space - the front upper part of the second adjacent chain link being insertable or insertable into the rear space.

This enables a particularly robust configuration of the connection of the chain links in the longitudinal direction, in which the intended tensile and compressive forces at each relative bending position are transmitted at least primarily via the chain links themselves, so that particularly preferably the joint connectors provided according to the first aspect are not stressed or are only slightly stressed.

Furthermore, for the second aspect, provision is preferably made for at least some chain links to be connectable together and/or detachable from one another in a joining direction other than the longitudinal direction, in particular a joining direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, wherein the joining direction preferably runs substantially transversely and/or in the height direction. The direction in which the links are connected to one another particularly preferably does not have any special components in the longitudinal direction, so that unintended separation during operation can be reliably prevented.

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

In one advantageous further development of the second aspect, provision is made for a front upper part having an upper projection protruding in the height direction and for a rear upper part having an upper recess; and for a rear lower part having a lower projection protruding in the height direction and for a front lower part having a lower recess. In this case, additional provision is made in particular for the upper projection of each chain link, which is configured for engagement in the upper recess of the first adjacent chain link both in the extended position and in the bent position, and for the lower projection of each chain link, which is configured for engagement in the lower recess of the second adjacent chain link both in the extended position and in the bent position. In this way, both tensile and compressive forces can be transmitted by the interaction of the projections and the recesses in the extended position and in the bent position.

It is further preferably provided that an upper projection is configured to engage in an upper recess from the rear space of one adjacent chain link towards its uppermost part, and a lower projection is configured to engage in a lower recess from the front space of the other adjacent chain link towards its lowermost part, wherein the internal height of the front space is preferably equal to or greater than the dimensions of the rear lower part comprising the lower projection in the height direction, and the internal height of the rear space is equal to or greater than the dimensions of the front upper part comprising the upper projection in the height direction. In this way, the projections are inserted into or engage with the corresponding recesses by connecting the chain links transversely (Q) or longitudinally (L) and shifting them relative to one another in the height direction (H). This can thus be achieved without distortion and without twisting or torsion of the chain links, and thus allows simple assembly of the support chain and simple replacement of individual parts, if necessary, for example for preventive maintenance.

The link is preferably configured such that the upper recess forms an opening starting from the rear space and towards the top and/or such that the lower recess forms an opening starting from the front space and towards the bottom. In this way, a maximum stopping surface can be provided in particular.

It may further advantageously be provided that each chain link has an upper projection, a lower projection, an upper recess and a lower recess, in order to have a contact surface for resting in a compressive and/or tensile force-absorbing manner on the corresponding mating contact surface of the adjacent chain link in the extended position in each case, and a contact surface for resting in a compressive and/or tensile force-absorbing manner on the corresponding mating contact surface of the adjacent chain link in the bent position, wherein each of the stop faces preferably extends transversely to the longitudinal direction.

All contact surfaces are preferably oriented perpendicular to the displacement plane, i.e. parallel to the transverse direction or as a whole so that transverse forces are prevented.

In the bent and extended relative positions, preferably in each case at least two stopping faces interact in a force-transmitting manner, the pair being diametrically opposed in longitudinal cross-section with respect to the centre of the link.

Advantageously, provision is made for contact surfaces of the upper projection or of the lower projection which form an angle relative to each other and for contact surfaces of the upper recess or of the lower recess which form an angle relative to each other, wherein the angular dimension difference between the angles of the upper projection and the upper recess and the angular dimension difference between the angles of the lower projection and the lower recess are preferably substantially identical or identical. The corresponding configuration of the angles ensures simultaneous pairwise interaction of a plurality of limit stops and thus expands the force transmission area overall.

Advantageously, provision is made for an upper projection implemented flush with the uppermost part of the chain link in the upper recess engaging therewith in the bent position, and/or for a lower projection implemented flush with the lowermost part of the chain link in the lower recess engaging therewith in the extended position. In general, the aim is to implement a flat outer surface free of projections in all operating positions, thereby preventing damage or wear to the envelope.

Each chain link has, in each case, terminal contact surfaces in its front and rear upper parts and in its front and rear lower parts, the terminal contact surfaces being configured in such a way that in an extended position the terminal contact surfaces of the front and rear upper parts lie on the terminal contact surfaces of the front and rear upper parts of the adjacent chain link, and if in a bent position the terminal contact surfaces of the front and rear lower parts lie on the terminal contact surfaces of the adjacent chain link, then further expansion of the surface for force transmission is achieved.

Preferably, both the front and rear spaces are open or lead in an open manner to each of the outer sides, the spaces being thus accessible in each case for insertion of the front upper part and/or the rear lower part of the joint connector. This facilitates and simplifies assembly and maintenance.

It is advantageous for the force flow and/or for the mechanical conditions if the dimensions of each joint connector in the transverse direction are greater than 30%, in particular between 50% and 100%, of the distance between the outer sides of the respective chain links. The width of the joint connector is preferably substantially equal to this distance. Furthermore, it is advantageous for the force flow if each joint connector extends transversely in the middle area between the outer sides of the chain links or is arranged centrally in the middle area such that no transverse forces can occur.

In one particularly robust embodiment, provision is made for each joint connector to extend at least partially in the height direction between the front upper part and the front lower part of one of the two adjacent chain links and between the rear upper part and the rear lower part of the other of the two adjacent chain links. In this way, the joint connector simultaneously forms an interlock against the disengagement of the chain links from the engagement. In this case, the joint connector can preferably prevent a shifting of the two adjacent chain links relative to one another in the height direction via the joint connector concerned in each case, for example by blocking the necessary movement play thereto.

Additional Advantageous Features (Both Aspects)

Some desirable further developments are described below which (like the above features) should be considered advantageous with respect to both core aspects of the present invention.

The joint connectors are preferably implemented as spring elements which exert elastic restoring forces on adjacent chain links when these are bent, which induce at least a partial restoring movement of the chain links opposite to the bending direction. This results in a damping of the vibrations of the movement of the supporting chain and optionally of the entire line guide.

The length of the elastically deformable region of each joint connector or each joint connector in the longitudinal direction is in each case a multiple of the thickness of each joint connector in the height direction (H).

For the separable fastening of the separate joint connectors, it is particularly advantageous if each joint connector has two longitudinally spaced fastening regions and if, in each case, one of the fastening regions is fastened to each of the two chain links with respect to the longitudinal shift. The joint connector can be configured in such a way that, with respect to the longitudinal direction, between the fastening regions, at least two regions of the joint connector have at least one other characteristic selected from the group comprising cross-section, material thickness and modulus of elasticity.

Preferably, each or each chain link has two fastening receptacles for form-locking and/or force-locking interaction with one fastening region of the joint connector in each case. Each fastening receptacle can preferably be configured 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 each fastening receptacle can be openly accessible or openly connected to at least one, preferably both, of the side faces of the chain link.

The joint connector can preferably be inserted, in particular pressed, laterally into the fastening receptacles of two adjacent chain links on either side, which means that assembly is particularly simple.

Each of the fastening receptacles is advantageously arranged in a middle region with respect to the height direction between the uppermost and lowermost portions. The fastening receptacles are preferably substantially equidistant from the uppermost and lowermost portions.

In order to prevent additional wear, it is advantageous if each chain link has, at each fastening receptacle, mutually spaced apart in height from each other, facing each other, clamping surfaces, in particular at the transition from the fastening receptacle to the front or rear space. These clamping surfaces are configured to maintain the force-locking of the fastening region of the associated joint connector and to counteract movements of the fastening region relative to the corresponding fastening receptacle, for example against transverse shifts and/or against torsion in the fastening receptacle. In this case, each joint connector can preferably have thickened portions in the fastening regions for interaction with the clamping surfaces.

In particular, for the purpose of laterally fixing the position of the assembled joint connectors or joint elements, it may be advantageous to provide for each joint connector a catch means in the fastening region, said catch means being implemented for interaction with a complementary engaging catch means of the associated chain link.

Preferably, all or at least some of the joint connectors are implemented as substantially plate-shaped components or as curved components in a plane in which the length and height directions lie.

The joint connectors are preferably made of a plastic material which is elastic and exhibits long-term bending resistance with respect to the chain links. The joint connectors and the chain links are preferably made of different materials.

To prevent transverse forces during operation, each chain link and/or each joint connector is constructed as a body that is mirror-symmetrical about its longitudinal central plane.

Each chain link consists of a block member, preferably a monolithic block member, i.e. a body without any complete internal cavity, in particular without any longitudinal passage opening, except for weight-reducing tapers and openings.

The two essential or only components of the support chain, namely the chain links and the joint connectors, can advantageously be produced in each case as separate components, in particular from a plastic material, in particular by injection moulding.

The chain links and joint connectors can be produced as mutually separate, individual components, in particular detachably connected together. For the connection of the strands forming the support chain, each joint connector is preferably detachably connectable to at least one of two chain links of an adjacent pair. However, a detachable connection within the chain links is also conceivable, in particular as a variant according to the first aspect. However, a configuration of the support chain having a plurality of separate joint elements or joint connectors, which are embodied as separate components and in each case have two end regions for a detachable connection to the chain links and at least one deformable region between them, is preferred.

According to both the first and second aspects, the proposed support chain is particularly suitable for use in line guide devices for cleanroom applications.

Additional details and advantages of individual aspects of the present invention can be inferred from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments based on the attached drawings, without limiting the above general nature. Corresponding or identical structural or functional features have corresponding reference numerals and cannot be described repeatedly. In the drawings:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a line guide device for cleanroom applications, wherein the two envelopes are in a purely exemplary operating position with an extended self-supporting upper run, an extended resting lower run and a deflection arc between them.
Figure 2 is a cross-section (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) through an exemplary multilayer structure having a plurality of stacked envelopes for a plurality of lines, where the support chains are accommodated in receiving ducts of the plurality of envelopes.
FIG. 3 is a side view of a support chain according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 shows the structural diagram of individual chain links of the support chain according to FIG. 3 in a side view (A), a view from below (B), a plan view (C), a front view (D), a back view (E), and a longitudinal cross-section (F).
Figures 5a and 5b show perspective views of a chain link according to Figure 4.
Figure 6 shows a longitudinal cross-section through a portion of the length of a support chain comprising chain links according to Figures 3 to 5 in an extended position (left side of Figure 6) and a fully bent position (right side of Figure 6).
FIG. 7 shows structural drawings of individual joint elements according to exemplary embodiments in side (A), plan (B) and perspective (C) views of the support chain according to FIGS. 3 to 5.

Fig. 1 shows an exemplary line guide device (1) guiding a supply line (3) (Fig. 2) between a fixed connection point (2) on a base and a movable connection point (4) on a moving end. The moving end is not shown in more detail and can typically be displaced back and forth in a linear manner in the longitudinal direction (L). The supply line (3) is a cable, a hose or the like and supplies the moving part of the machine with, for example, power, signals and/or operating medium. Fig. 1 shows a snapshot of a line guide assembly (1) having a self-supporting extended upper run (5), a lower run (6) optionally positioned on a supporting surface, and a deflection arc (7). The deflection arc (7) has a predetermined bending radius or deflection radius with respect to an imaginary deflection axis (U). In operation, the deflection arc (7) reciprocates with respect to the fixed connection point (2) when the upper run (5) with the movable connection point (4) moves forwards or backwards in the longitudinal direction (L).

The line guide device (1) is particularly suitable and intended for cleanrooms or other applications in which particle emissions have to be reduced or prevented. For this purpose, it has one or more flexible envelopes (8) of flexible plastic material extending in the longitudinal direction (L), which surround the supply line (3) in a dust-tight manner along its entire length between the connection points (2 and 4). The ends of each envelope (8) and the ends of the lines (3) are fastened at the end to the connection points (2, 4), for example by means of a terminal fastening device (11) or a terminal connection.

According to Fig. 2, each envelope (8) has a number of tubular receiving ducts (9) for guiding at least one supply line (3) in each case. Each envelope (8) is hose-like overall and, in particular, sufficiently flexible through suitable design and/or material selection, allows a reversibly flexible curvature of the deflection arc (7) with hardly any force and follows its movement in the longitudinal direction (L) with the least possible resistance.

The line guide device (1) further comprises a number of support chains (10) which extend along the entire length of the line guide device (1) from the connection point (2) to the connection point (4). In a purely exemplary arrangement according to Fig. 2, a multilayer structure is shown which has a number of laminated layers of envelopes (8) with lines (3). In this connection, an inner support layer is provided which faces the deflection arc (7), within which support chains (10) are provided in all receiving ducts (9) of the envelope(s) (8), i.e. this inner support layer does not guide any lines (3). Additional support chains (10) can also be arranged in the envelope(s) (8) in additional layers, for example on the outer side, for the purpose of stabilizing against transverse forces (see Fig. 2). For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the envelope (8) can comprise a plurality of individual envelope units, which are transversely detachably connected together, for example by means of a longitudinally extending fastening profile or fastening band (13). Each envelope unit can have, for example, only one receiving duct (9), in which a support chain (10) is received, and can be connected to further envelope units by means of a fastening profile or fastening band (13). This allows the replacement of individual support chains (10) when required. Reference is made here to the teachings of WO 2020/148300 A1 with regard to the configuration of the envelope (8). For example, WO2020/148300 A1 describes envelope units having only one receptacle and having fastening profiles or fastening bands for connecting the envelope units, with reference to FIGS. 9d, 10c, 10d, 13a to 13c, and 18a, 1b.

The essential function of the support chains (10) is to predetermine the radius of curvature of the deflection arc (7) or to limit its minimum radius around the deflection axis (U). A further essential function of each support chain (10) is to increase the self-supporting length of the upper run (5), or in fact to enable a sufficient self-supporting length in the fully advanced position of the travel end (not visible in Fig. 1). In this case, each support chain (10) supports the envelope (8) in particular against the deflection induced by gravity in the height direction (H) or acts as a load-bearing agent. A sufficient number of support chains (10) are provided for the load and the length of the line guide device (1).

Exemplary embodiments of a support chain (10) according to the present invention are described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 3 to 7.

Fig. 3 shows a support chain (10) according to the invention in the intended position, i.e. rotated around the deflection axis (U), wherein the support chain (10) forms two runs, an upper run (5) and a lower run (6) extending in the longitudinal direction (L), and a deflection arc (7). The deflection arc (7) is substantially U-shaped in the plane of Fig. 3, in which the longitudinal direction (L) and the height direction (H) lie. The configuration of the support chain (10) determines the shape of the deflection arc (7) and of the entire line guide device (1). The deflection axis (U) runs perpendicular to the plane of Fig. 3, i.e. in a transverse direction (Q) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and perpendicular to the height direction (H). The support chain (10) is configured to support the self-supporting upper run (5), in which the runs (5, 6) in the height direction (H) remain spaced from one another over the entire displacement path.

The support chain (10) is implemented as a type of link chain and consists of exactly one strand (12) comprising a number of individual chain links (20) which are in each case separably joined together by means of one articulated joint. Due to the articulated joint, each pair of adjacent chain links (20, 20') can bend relative to one another in the bending direction over a limited angle, for example about 5 to 20°. The chain links (20, 20') are rotatable relative to one another between an extended position (such as within the runs (5, 6)) and a bent position (such as within the deflection arc (7)), which allows the support chain (10) to rotate backwards on its own while maintaining the minimum permissible or possible radius of the deflection arc (7).

Each articulated joint comprises a joint connector (30) which connects two adjacent or consecutive chain links (20, 20') longitudinally (L) so as to be releasably connected together in each case, as described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 7a to 7c. In the example shown, exactly one separate, discrete joint connector (30) is provided for each pair of adjacent chain links (20, 20'), releasably connected with one of its ends to one chain link 20 and with its other end to the other chain link (20'). Each chain link (20) within a strand (12) is in each case connected with one joint connector (30) on both sides or at both end regions of its longitudinal direction for its part.

Therefore, the chain links (20) and the joint connectors (30) alternately appear longitudinally within the strand (12). Each joint connector (30) comprises a deformable intermediate region (32), which is elastically deformable by the action of an intended bending force acting on the joint connector (30) during a displacement of the line guide device (1) or of the support chain (10). In this regard, 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 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 , adjacent chain links (20 , 20 ') are interlocked with one another, and furthermore the chain links (20 , 20 ') themselves are interlocked and configured within one another in such a way that they contribute to their respective articulated joints or influence their mutual rotational degrees of freedom through their shape. Here, the chain links (20) interact with the joint connectors (30) in such a way that the runs (5 , 6) remain extended in the longitudinal direction (L) and do not sag downwards and that the deflection arc (7) achieves its desired radius and does not fall below it. In the illustrated example, all chain links (20) of the support chain (10) are of the same configuration, and all joint connectors (30) are of the same configuration, so that the support chain (10) can be manufactured with only two essential components.

Figures 4 and 5 show a preferred first embodiment of an individual chain link (20) combining two essential aspects of the present invention. Figure 6 shows a portion of the length of the support chain (10) in longitudinal cross-section, wherein in each case two chain links (20) are shown in an extended position and a bent position. Not shown in Figure 6 is a similarly possible or advantageous pretensioning of the support chain (10) in the extended position. Reference is made below to Figures 3 and 4 to 6 for explaining the configuration of the chain links (20).

The chain link (20) is preferably implemented as a single piece or one-piece, in particular made of plastic by means of injection molding. However, it can also be assembled from several parts. The chain link (20) is implemented in the form of a block having an upper part (204A), a lower part (204B), two outer side faces (23), and front and rear end faces (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 the dimension in the height direction (H), i.e. the height or thickness of the chain link (20). In order to further reduce the torsion in the longitudinal direction (L), the width of the chain link (20) can also be greater than its height. In the example shown, the dimension in the longitudinal direction (L), i.e. the length of the chain link, is at least twice as large as the width and/or twice as large as the height. The selected length depends on the desired chain pitch. The uppermost part (204A) is an outer side of the chain link (20), which is arranged on the side of the chain link (20) which is positioned outward with respect to the deflection arc (7), at the intended position of the chain link (20) within the support chain (10), i.e. on the side away from the deflection axis (U) or the opposite run (see FIG. 3). The lowermost part (204B) is an outer side of the chain link (20), which is arranged on the side of the chain link (20) which is positioned inward with respect to the deflection arc (7), at the intended position of the chain link (20) within the support chain (10), i.e. on the side facing the deflection axis (U) or the opposite run (see FIG. 3). The outer side faces (23) of the chain links (20) are outer faces of the chain links (20) which delimit each chain link (20) in the transverse direction (Q), i.e. are spaced apart from each other and transversely spaced apart from each other. The front end surface (231) faces an adjacent chain link (20') positioned in front of the chain link (20) within the support chain (10), and the rear end surface (232) faces an adjacent chain link (20") positioned behind the chain link (20) within the support chain (10). With respect to surface areas, the uppermost portion (204A) (FIG. 4C), the lowermost portion (204B) (FIG. 4B), and the outer side surface (23) (FIG. 4A) are approximately the same size and at least twice as large as the cross-sectional area of the chain link (20) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L).

Each chain link (20) can be conceptually subdivided into a forward longitudinal portion (21) (left side of FIG. 4) and a rear longitudinal portion (22) (left side of FIG. 4) with respect to the longitudinal direction (L) (wherein the terms “front” and “rear” serve only for the purpose of differentiation and are in principle interchangeable). The forward longitudinal portion (21) includes a forward upper portion (201A) at the uppermost portion (204A) and a forward lower portion (201B) at the lowermost portion (204B), which are spaced apart from each other in the height direction (H) by a forward space (241). The rear longitudinal portion (22) consequently includes a rear upper portion (202A) at the uppermost portion (204A) and a rear lower portion (202B) at the lowermost portion (204B), which are spaced apart from each other in the height direction (H) by a rear space (242). Both the front space (241) and the rear space (242) are transversely continuous and open at each of the two outer sides (23). Therefore, the space (241) and the space (242) are accessible in front of each outer side (23) for insertion of the rear lower part (202B) or the front upper part (201A) and the joint connector (30) (see below).

For the purpose of explanation, only three arbitrary chain links (20', 20 and 20") which are connected to one another within the support chain (10) are considered, which chain links are pushed together and connected to one another by a joint connector (30), wherein an intermediate chain link (20) is arranged between a first adjacent, i.e. front chain link (20'), and a second adjacent, i.e. rear chain link (20") (see FIG. 6 ). A front upper part (201A) of the intermediate chain link (20) is inserted into a rear space (242) of the front chain link (20'). A rear upper part (202A) of the intermediate chain link (20) is inserted into a front space (241) of the rear chain link (20").

Adjacent chain links (20, 20', 20") are longitudinally interlocked with one another in a manner to transmit tension, or compression, or tension, and thrust;

Therefore, they are inseparable from one another in a relative position, at least partly or preferably all bent, in the longitudinal direction (L). To this end, the front upper part (201A) has an upper projection (206A) pointing upwards in the height direction (H), and the rear upper part (202A) has an upper recess (208A) complementary to the upper projection (206A). The upper projection (206A) engages with the upper recess (208A) of the front chain link (20'), specifically with its uppermost part (204A) in the rear space (242) of the front chain link (20'). The rear lower part (202B) has a lower projection (206B) pointing downwards in the height direction (H), and the front lower part (201A) has a lower recess (208B) complementary to the lower projection (206B). The lower projection (206B) engages with the lower recess (208B) of the rear chain link (20"), specifically with its lowermost part (204B) in the forward space (241) of the rear chain link (20"). The projections (206A, 206B) are configured in each case such that they engage with corresponding recesses (208A, 208B) of the adjacent chain links (20, 20') or of the adjacent chain links (20, 20") both in the extended and in the bent position. This allows tensile and compressive forces in the longitudinal direction (L) to be transmitted to the displacement of the supporting chain (10) by the interaction of the projections (206A, 206B) and the recesses (208A, 208B), so that the joint connector (30) need not be subjected to tensile or compressive stresses or only very little of them.

In each case, the recesses (208A, 208B) are implemented as continuous openings in the height direction (H), i.e., passing through the rear upper portion (202A) or the front lower portion (201B). However, the upper protrusion (206A) does not protrude beyond the uppermost portion (204A), i.e., it does not protrude beyond the upper outer edge of the upper recess (208A) in the extended or bent position of the adjacent chain links (20, 20') (i.e., out of the recess (208A) at the uppermost portion (204A)). Likewise, the lower protrusion (206B) does not protrude beyond the lowermost portion (204B), i.e., it does not protrude beyond the lower outer edge of the lower recess (208B) in the extended or bent position of the adjacent chain links (20, 20') (i.e., out of the recess (208B) at the lowermost portion (204B)). In the most fully bent position possible, the upper projection (206A) is flush with the uppermost portion (204A) of the front chain link (20') in the upper recess (208A) it engages. In the straight or extended position, the lower projection (206B) is flush with the lowermost portion (204B) of the rear chain link (20') in the lower recess (208B) it engages.

As most readily seen in FIG. 6, each chain link has contact surfaces in its projections and recesses in each case, which in an extended or bent position rest on the corresponding mating contact surfaces of the adjacent chain link (20', 20"), thereby transmitting the compressive or tensile force in the longitudinal direction (L). In the extended position, the contact surface (216A) of the upper projection (206A) rests on the mating contact surface (218A) of the upper recess (208A). Accordingly, the contact surface (216B) of the lower projection (206B) rests on the mating contact surface (218B) of the lower recess (208B). In the fully or maximally bent position, the contact surface (226A) of the upper projection (206A) rests on the mating contact surface (228A) of the upper recess (208A). Accordingly, the contact surface (226A) of the lower projection (206B) The surface (226B) here rests on the mating contact surface (228B) of the lower recess (208B). The contact surfaces (216A, 216B, 218A, 218B, 226A, 226B, 228A, 228B) in each case run parallel to the transverse direction (Q), but obliquely to the longitudinal direction (L), when viewed in longitudinal cross section.

The two contact surfaces (216A, 226A) of the upper protrusion (206A) are inclined at an angle αA with respect to each other, and the contact surfaces (216B, 226B) of the lower protrusion (206B) are inclined at an angle αB with respect to each other, respectively. The contact surfaces (218A, 228A) of the upper recess (208A) are inclined at an angle βA with respect to each other, and the contact surfaces (218B, 228B) of the lower recess (208B) are inclined at an angle βB with respect to each other. An angular dimension difference between the angle αA of the upper protrusion (206A) and the angle βA of the upper recess (208A) is equal to the angular dimension difference between the angle αB of the lower protrusion (206B) and the angle βB of the lower recess (208B). In this way, both in the extended position and in the fully bent position, the two contact surfaces of each chain link (20), specifically the lower contact surface and the upper contact surface, in each case rest on the corresponding mating contact surfaces of the adjacent chain link (20'), so that the tensile or compressive forces are transmitted more effectively and also the projections are subjected to less stress, in particular shear forces.

Additionally, each chain link (20) has end contact surfaces on its end faces (231, 232). In the extended extended position, the end contact surface (231A) of the forward upper portion (201A) rests on the end contact surface (232A) of the rear upper portion (202A) of the front chain link (20'). In the fully bent position, the end contact surface (231B) of the forward lower portion (201B) rests on the end contact surface (232B) of the rear upper portion (202B) of the front chain link (20'). This allows for effective thrust transmission in either the extended or bent position.

The internal height of the front space (241) is slightly larger than the corresponding dimension of the rear lower part (202B), i.e. the largest dimension in the height direction (H) in the area of the lower protrusion (206B). Therefore, the rear lower part (202B) of the front adjacent chain link (20') can be inserted into the front space (241) of the chain link (20), specifically in both the transverse direction (Q) and the longitudinal direction (L), in the example shown. The lower protrusion (206B) of the front chain link (20') can then be inserted downwardly in the height direction (H) in the front space (241) into the lower recess (208B) of the intermediate chain link (20). The internal height of the rear space (242) is consequently slightly larger than the largest dimension of the front upper part (201A), i.e. the dimension in the height direction (H) in the area of the upper protrusion (206A). Thus, the front lower part (201A) of the rear adjacent chain link (20") is insertable into the rear space (242) of the intermediate chain link (20) both in the transverse direction (Q) and in the longitudinal direction (L) in the specifically illustrated example. The upper protrusion (206A) of the rear chain link (20') can then be inserted upwardly in the height direction (H) into the upper recess (208A) of the intermediate chain link (20) in the rear space (242). Thus, the chain links (20, 20', 20") (before being secured by the joint connectors (30)) have two possible engagement directions, either to push the chain links together or to separate them with a subsequent movement in the height direction (H) without twisting in the transverse direction (Q) and in the longitudinal direction (L). By inserting the projections (206A, 206B) into the next chain link (20, 20', 20") in the height direction, i.e. perpendicular to the respective engagement direction, a kind of mutual locking is achieved. This also prevents the support chain (12) from disintegrating during operation, in particular in the interaction with the obliquely positioned contact surfaces (216A, 226A or 216B, 226B and 218A, 228A or 218B, 228B), which in the case of tensile stress draw the contact surfaces of the projections (206A, 206B) into the engagement state. Thus, the end contact surfaces (231A, 231B, 232A, 232B) also pull the chain links (20, 20', 20") into the engagement position by a kind of wedge effect under thrust loading. It has the effect of moving more strongly.

When the joint connector (30) is inserted between two chain links (20, 20') in each case, it extends between the front upper part (241A) and the front lower part (241B) of one chain link (20) and the rear upper part (242A) and the rear lower part (242B) of the front chain link (20'), and also occupies a part of the front space (241) of the chain link (20) and a part of the rear space (242) of the front chain link (20'), so that the internal height of each space becomes smaller, specifically smaller than the largest dimension of the front upper part (201A) or the rear lower part (202B). As a result of this alone, the chain links (20) are reliably and inseparably secured against unintended separation from one another in a sort of interlocking, since the projections (206A, 206B) cannot be removed from the recesses (208A, 208B) of the adjacent chain links without twisting or even braking the chain links (20, 20', 20").

The chain link (20) consists of a body that is mirror-symmetrical about its longitudinal central plane, so that force transmission between the interacting surfaces in case of tensile and thrust loads occurs without a component in the transverse direction (Q).

Figures 3 to 6 further show that each chain link (20) has a cutout (25) for weight reduction purposes, which in the illustrated example is implemented as a generally circular cylindrical passage opening in the transverse direction (Q), which passage opening is open at the two outer side faces (23) and lies midway between the fastening receptacles (36) with respect to the longitudinal direction (L). The cutout (25) may also have a different shape in the side view, for example an oval cross-section, as in Figure 4a. The transition between the cutout (25) and the side face (23) is preferably rounded.

Figures 7a to 7c show exemplary embodiments of a joint connector (30), which is implemented here as a substantially flat or plate-shaped component of plastic material. The main dimensions and main planes of the joint connector (30) run in the longitudinal direction (L) and the transverse direction (Q). It can also be implemented as a curved or partially curved component in the height direction (H). The joint connector (30) has a deformable region (32) in its middle region with respect to the longitudinal direction (L). The joint connector (30) has a fastening region (34) at each of its longitudinal ends. Each fastening region (34) serves for fastening to one of two adjacent chain links (20, 20'). The fastening regions (34) can have a uniform shape and size in the transverse direction (Q). The chain link (20) consequently has two fastening receptacles (36) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (L) and directed away from each other, in each case for accommodating a fastening region (34). Each chain link (20) can be connected with two joint connectors (30) and thereby with a front and a rear chain link (20', 20"). One or the front fastening receptacle (36) is arranged in the height direction (H) between the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) of the chain link (20) and forms an indentation in the front space (241). The other or the rear fastening receptacle (36) is arranged in the height direction (H) between the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of the chain link (20) and forms an indentation in the rear space (242). Each fastening receptacle (36) is preferably equidistant from the uppermost portion (204A) and the lowermost portion (204B) of the chain link (20). Each fastening receptacle (36) additionally opens into a respective one of the outer side faces (23) of the chain link (20). Each fastening receptacle (36) has a uniform shape and size in the transverse direction (Q) and also matches the shape of the fastening area (34), so that the fastening area (34) is preferably exclusively insertable in the transverse direction (Q) into the fastening receptacle (36) and is at least form-locked to the fastening receptacle (36) against shifting in the longitudinal direction (L). Therefore, the joint connector (30) can be connected to two consecutive chain links (20, 20') in each case by inserting the joint connector (30) between the chain links (20, 20') in the transverse direction (Q) and can be removed again in the transverse direction (Q). The dimensions of the joint connector (30) in the transverse direction (Q), i.e. its width, are equal to the distance between the outer side faces (23) of the chain links (20), so that in the intended connection state the joint connector (30) ends transversely (Q) at the same height on both sides with respect to the respective outer side faces (23) of the chain links.

A joint connector (30) connected to two consecutive chain links (20, 20') prevents the chain links (20, 20') from shifting relative to one another in the height direction (H) and thus also prevents separation of the projections (206A, 206B) of the chain links (20) from the recesses (208A, 208B) of the adjacent chain links (20', 20"). However, tensile and compressive forces are at least primarily absorbed and transmitted through the interaction of the contact surfaces of the chain links (20, 20', 20") (specifically preferably at least two contact surfaces per chain link simultaneously as described above, so that the forces are distributed over a larger area), so that the articulated connection of the connected chain links (20) can absorb particularly high tensile/compressive forces. The above configuration is also possible in that the chain links (20, 20', 20") cannot be connected together or separated from each other in the longitudinal direction (L), but rather can only be substantially perpendicular to each other. During operation, the joint connectors (30) are at least primarily subjected to bending stresses and are only slightly or not at all affected by tensile or compressive stresses (the tensile/compressive stresses are relieved by the interlocking chain links (20)). The joint connectors (30) can therefore be produced from different materials which are particularly suitable for frequent bending cycles, unlike the less flexible and high tensile strength chain links (20).

In the example shown, each fastening region (34) is implemented as a thickened portion of a circular cylinder with respect to the deformable region (32) in the middle and has a round longitudinal cross-section. To prevent rotation of the fastening regions (34) which would cause wear, other shapes, for example a goblet shape or a triangular shape, are likewise possible. In the example shown, the chain link (20) in the fastening receptacle (36) has two mutually directed clamping surfaces (37) which are spaced apart from each other in height direction (H) and which extend longitudinally (L) and transversely (Q) and which interact with a slightly thickened portion (38) in the fastening area (34) of the joint connector (30) and which also hold the latter in a force-locking manner against torsion and also against shifting in the transverse direction (Q), so that rotation of the fastening areas (34) is also prevented. The thickened portion (38) is thus received in the intended operating state of the supporting chain (10) by means of a press fit or a force fit between the clamping surfaces (37). In this way, not only is torsion of the fastening area (34) in the fastening receptacle (36) prevented, but at the same time unintended separation of the joint connector (30) in the transverse direction (Q) from the supporting chain (10) is also prevented. To remove the joint connector, force must be applied in the transverse direction (Q), which cannot occur under normal operating conditions.

Additionally, each of the fastening areas (34) and the fastening receptacles (36) have corresponding catch means (39, 39") which snap together to prevent shifting in the lateral direction (Q) and also here take the form of, for example, a notch or groove (39) in the circumference of the fastening area (34) of the joint connector (30) (see FIGS. 7b, 7c) and a corresponding raised portion (39') in the fastening receptacle (36) of the chain link (20) (see FIGS. 4d, 4e).

The joint connector (30) is implemented in the manner of a hinge-like spring element, which acts like a leaf spring when two chain links (20) are bent, i.e. has elastic properties. In the case of an intended deformation, i.e. a swiveling of adjacent chain links (20, 20') connected with the joint element (30) 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 rotation. This results in a uniform, low-vibration displacement of the supporting chain (10), which in particular reduces wear of the projections (206A, 206B) of the chain links and generally counteracts the occurrence of wear.

At least the elastically or elastically deformable region (32) or the entire joint connector (30) is made of a different material than the material of the chain link (20), for example another plastic material having a different modulus of elasticity. Furthermore, the shape of the deformable region (32) also determines its elastic properties. The length of the deformable region (32) in the longitudinal direction (L), and also optionally its width in the transverse direction (Q), in each case amounts to a multiple of its material thickness or dimension in the height direction (H). The bending force for the rotation of the chain link (20) acts on the deformable region (32) of the joint connector (30) in particular in the height direction (H) transverse to the longitudinal direction (L). In another embodiment, the deformable region (32) can be curved in its longitudinal section, which affects its flexibility, or it can be formed, for example, of two layers or plies spaced apart from one another in the height direction (H) by a space, which meet in the fastening regions (34). Other shapes are also possible for the longitudinal section and optionally also for the cross section to influence the area moment of inertia of the deformable region (32).

Alternatively, however, the joint connector may also be implemented so as to be substantially free of restoring forces, for which purpose a joint area, such as a film hinge, may be provided.

Through the use according to the invention of a flexible joint connector (30) in a support chain (10), it is possible to avoid, in particular, the typical joint/pin joint type joints of typical support chains, and thus also the wear inevitably associated with them.

1 line guide device
2, 4 connection points
3 supply lines
5, 6 runs
7 Deviation Arc
8 envelopes
9 Reception duct
10 Support Chain
11 End-to-end device
12 strands
13 Fastening profile or fastening band
20, 20', 20" Chain Link
21 Forward longitudinal portion of chain link
22 Rear longitudinal section of chain link
23 External aspect
25 Cutouts for weight reduction
30 joint connector
32 Deformable area of joint connector
34 Joint connector mating area
36 Chain link fastening receptacle
37 Crimping surface of chain link
38 Thickened portion on the mating area of the joint connector
39 Catch means for joint connector
39' Chain link combination catch means
Front upper part of 201A chain link
Forward lower portion of 201B chain link
Rear upper part of 202A chain link
Rear lower part of 202B chain link
Top of 204A chain link
Bottom of 204B chain link
206A upper projection
206B lower protrusion
208A upper recess
208B Lower Recess
Stop surface of upper projection of 216A, 226A
Stop surface of lower projection of 216B, 226B
αA Angle between the stopping faces of the upper protrusion
Angle between the stopping faces of the lower protrusion of αB
Stop surface of upper recess of 218A, 228A
Stop face of the lower recess of 218B, 228B
Angle between the stopping faces of the upper recess of βA
Angle between the stopping faces of the βB lower recess
Forward or rear cross-section of chain link 231, 232
231A Front upper section end contact surface
232A Rear upper section end contact surface
231B Front lower section end contact surface
232B Rear lower section end contact surface
241 Forward space of chain link
242 Rear space of chain link
The distance between the outer sides of a chain link
H height direction
L length direction
Q transverse
U-axis bias

Claims (30)

A line guide device (1) for the protected dynamic guidance of a supply line (3), such as a cable, a hose or the like, in particular for cleanroom applications, between two connection points (2, 4), at least one of which moves relative to the other,
The above line guide device (1) is displaceable back and forth in the longitudinal direction (L), forms two runs (5, 6) and a deflection arc (7) that connects the runs and also lies in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and the height direction (H) lie,
The above line guide device (1):
- a flexible envelope (8) for at least one supply line (3) in each case, arranged directly next to each other and extending in the longitudinal direction (L), and
- at least one support chain (10) arranged or arranged in the receiving duct (9) to support the line guide device (1), said support chain (10) being configured to form said runs (5, 6) and said deflection arc (7),
The support chain (10) comprises at least a longitudinal portion of a strand (12) having alternately continuous chain links (20) and joint connectors (30) in the longitudinal direction (L), the joint connectors (30) each comprising a deformable region (32) which is elastically deformable in particular in the bending direction, the joint connectors (30) in each case holding together two adjacent chain links (20, 20') - the chain links (20, 20') being rotatable relative to one another in particular in the bending direction or vice versa between an extended position and a bent position - and
A line guide device (1), characterized in that at least some of the chain links (20) and/or the joint connectors (30) of the strands (12) are connectable together and/or detachable from each other in a connection direction that is not along the longitudinal direction (L), but in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L). A support chain (10) for supporting a line guide device (1) according to claim 1, in particular having a flexible envelope (8), wherein the support chain (10) is configured to advance in the longitudinal direction (L) and to form two runs (5, 6) and a deflection arc (7) which connects the runs (5, 6) and lies in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and the height direction (H) lie, the support chain (10) being composed of at least a longitudinal portion of a strand (12) having alternating continuous chain links (20) and joint connectors (30) in the longitudinal direction (L), the joint connectors (30) each comprising a deformable region (32) which is elastically deformable in particular in the bending direction, the joint connectors (30) in each case connecting two adjacent chain links (20, 20') - the chain links (20, 20') in particular being deformable relative to one another in the bending direction or vice versa between an extended position and a bent position. A support chain (10) characterized in that the chain links (20) and/or the joint connectors (30) of the strands (12) are connected together and/or are detachable from each other in a connection direction that is not in the longitudinal direction (L), in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L). In claim 1 or 2, each of the chain links (20) has two outer side faces (23) spaced apart from each other in a transverse direction (Q) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and directed away from each other and bounding the chain link (20) in the transverse direction (Q), the device wherein the chain link (20) is preferably implemented at least at positions between the outer side faces (23) having a continuous cross-section or as a solid body. A device according to any one of claims 1 or 3, particularly claim 3, characterized in that the coupling direction is substantially transverse (Q). A device characterized in that in claim 3 or 4, the strand (12) is configured as a connection of a plurality of chain links (20) and separate joint connectors (30) which are alternately connected together and implemented as separate components, each of the plurality of joint connectors (30) is preferably detachably connected to two adjacent chain links (20, 20') in each case. In any one of claims 1 to 5, each chain link (20) of the plurality of chain links (20) has a forward longitudinal portion (21) and a rear longitudinal portion (22) with respect to the longitudinal direction (L); and the forward longitudinal portion (21) of each chain link (20) is configured to transmit tensile and/or compressive force in the longitudinal direction (L) for shape-locking interaction with the rear longitudinal portion (22) of an adjacent chain link (20). The above-mentioned front longitudinal portion (21) has a front upper portion (201A) on the outside with respect to the deflection arc (7) at the top (204A) and a front lower portion (201B) on the inside with respect to the deflection arc (7) at the bottom (204B), and the rear longitudinal portion (22) has a rear upper portion (202A) on the top (204A) and a rear lower portion (202B) on the bottom (204B);
A device (1, 10) characterized in that the front upper portion (201A) and the front lower portion (201B) of each of the chain links (20) are spaced apart from each other in the height direction (H) by a front space (241), and the rear lower portion (202B) of the first adjacent chain link (20') is insertable or insertable into the front space; and the rear upper portion (202A) and the rear lower portion (202B) of each of the chain links (20) are spaced apart from each other in the height direction (H) by a rear space (242), and the front upper portion (201A) of the second adjacent chain link (20") is insertable or insertable into the rear space. In particular, in a support chain (10) for supporting a line guide device (1) having a flexible envelope (8) according to claim 1, the support chain (10) has a plurality of individual chain links (20) which are articulated together or connected to form runs (5, 6) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) and which connect the runs (5, 6) and which also form a U-shaped deflection arc (7) which lies in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and the height direction (H) lie, in each case two adjacent chain links (20) being rotatable relative to one another between an extended position and a bent position, each chain link (20) of the plurality of chain links (20) having a forward longitudinal part (21) and a rear longitudinal part (22) relative to the longitudinal direction (L), the forward longitudinal part (21) of each chain link (20) being tensioned for form-locking interaction with the rear longitudinal part (22) of the adjacent chain link (20). and/or configured to transmit the compressive force in the longitudinal direction (L); the front longitudinal portion (21) has a front upper portion (21A) which is outer with respect to the deflection arc (7) at the uppermost portion (204A) of the chain link (20) and a front lower portion (21B) which is inner with respect to the deflection arc (7) at the lowermost portion (204B) of the chain link (20), the rear longitudinal portion (22) has a rear upper portion (202A) at the uppermost portion (204A) of the chain link (20) and a rear lower portion (202B) at the lowermost portion (204B), each of the chain links (20) having two outer side surfaces (23) which face away from each other and are spaced apart from each other in a transverse direction (Q) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), the outer side surfaces bounding the chain link (20) in the transverse direction (Q),
The front upper portion (201A) and the front lower portion (201B) of each of the above chain links (20) are spaced apart from each other in the height direction (H) laterally with respect to the length direction (L) by a front space (241), and the rear lower portion (202B) of the first adjacent chain link (20') is insertable or inserted into the front space, and
A support chain characterized in that the rear upper portion (202A) and the rear lower portion (202B) of each of the chain links (20) are spaced apart from each other in the height direction (H) by a rear space (242), and the front upper portion (201A) of the second adjacent chain link (20") is insertable or insertable into the rear space. A support chain, characterized in that in claim 7, at least some of the chain links (20) are connectable together and/or separable from one another in a joining direction that is not along the longitudinal direction (L), in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), and that the joining direction preferably runs substantially in the transverse direction (Q). A 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 implemented as separate components, wherein the joint connectors (30) have particularly elastically deformable regions (32) in the bending direction of the chain links (20), and wherein each of the plurality of joint connectors (30) is particularly preferably releasably connectable in each case with two adjacent chain links (20). In any one of Articles 6 to 9,
- The front upper part (201A) has an upper protrusion (206A) protruding 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 protrusion (206B) protruding in the height direction (H), and the front lower part (201B) has a lower recess (208B);
The upper projection (206A) of each of the chain links (20) is configured for engagement in the upper recess (208A) of the first adjacent chain link (20') in both the extended position and the bent position, and the lower projection (206B) of each of the chain links (20) is configured for engagement in the lower recess (208B) of the second adjacent chain link (20") in both the extended position and the bent position, preferably, the upper projection (206A) is configured to engage in the upper recess (208A) from the rear space (242) of one adjacent chain link (20') toward its uppermost part (204A), and the lower projection (206B) is configured to engage in the lower recess (208B) from the front space (241) of the other adjacent chain link (20") toward its lowermost part (204B). A device (1, 10) characterized in that the internal height of the front space (241) is particularly preferably equal to or greater than the dimension of the rear lower part (202B) including the lower protrusion (206B) in the height direction (H), and the internal height of the rear space (242) is equal to or greater than the dimension of the front upper part (202A) including the upper protrusion (206A) in the height direction (H). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in claim 10, the upper recess (208A) forms an opening starting from the rear space (242) toward the uppermost portion (204A) and/or the lower recess (208B) forms an opening starting from the front space (241) toward the lowermost portion (204B). In claim 10 or 11, in each case the upper projection (206A), the lower projection (206B), the upper recess (208A) and the lower recess (208B) of each of the chain links (20) have a contact surface (216A, 216B, 218A, 218B) for resting in a compressive and/or tensile force-absorbing manner on a corresponding mating contact surface of the adjacent chain link (20') in the extended position and a contact surface (226A, 226B, 228A, 228B) for resting in a compressive and/or tensile force-absorbing manner on a corresponding mating contact surface of the adjacent chain link (20') in the bent position, each of the stop surfaces (216A, 216B, 218A, 218B, 226A, 226B, 228A, 228B) preferably having a length A device (1, 10) characterized by extending transversely in a direction (L). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in claim 12, the contact surfaces (216A, 226A) of the upper protrusion (206A) or the contact surfaces (216A, 226B) of the lower protrusion (206B) form respective angles (αA, αB) with respect to each other, the contact surfaces (218A, 228A) of the upper recess (208A) or the contact surfaces (218A, 228B) of the lower recess (208B) form respective angles (βA, βB) with respect to each other, and the angular dimension difference between the angles (αB, βB) of the upper protrusion (206A) and the upper recess (208A) and the angular dimension difference between the angles (αB, βB) of the lower protrusion (206B) and the lower recess (208B) are preferably substantially the same or the same. A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 10 to 13, the upper protrusion (206B) is implemented at the same height as the uppermost part (204A) of the chain link (20') in the upper recess (208A) engaging therewith in the bent position, and/or the lower protrusion (206B) is implemented at the same height as the lowermost part (204B) of the chain link (20") in the lower recess (208B) engaging therewith in the extended position. In any one of claims 6 to 14, each of the chain links (20) has end contact surfaces (231A, 232A, 231B, 232B) in each case on the front and rear upper parts (201A, 202A) and on the front and rear lower parts (201B, 202B), the end contact surfaces being configured in such a way that in the extended position the end contact surfaces (231A, 232A) of the front and rear upper parts (201A, 202A) lie over the end contact surfaces (231A, 232A) of the front and rear upper parts (201A, 202A) of the adjacent chain link (20'), and the end contact surfaces (231B, 232B) of the front and rear lower parts (201B, 202B) in the bent position A device (1, 10) characterized in that it is placed on the terminal contact surfaces (231B, 232B) of the link (20'). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 6 to 15, the front and rear spaces (241, 242) are both connected to each of the external side surfaces (23) in an open manner. In any one of claims 1 to 16,
- The dimension of each of the joint connectors (30) in the transverse direction (Q) is greater than 30% of the distance (A) between the outer side faces (23) of each of the chain links (20), in particular between 50% and 100%, and preferably substantially equal to the distance (A), and/or
- A device (1, 10) characterized in that each of the above joint connectors (30) extends in a middle region with respect to the transverse direction between the outer side surfaces (23) of the above chain links (20). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 6, 9 to 17, each joint connector (30) extends at least partially in the height direction (H) between the front upper portion (201A) and the front lower portion (201B) of one of the two adjacent chain links (20) and between the rear upper portion (202A) and the rear lower portion (202B) of the other of the two adjacent chain links (20). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 1 to 18, the joint connectors (30) are implemented as spring elements that apply elastic restoring force to adjacent chain links (20) when the chain links (20) are bent, and which cause at least partial restoring movement of the chain links (20) opposite to the bending direction. A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 1 to 19, the length of the elastically deformable region (32) of each of the joint connectors (30) in the longitudinal direction (L) is in each case a multiple of the thickness of each of the joint connectors (30) in the height direction (H). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 1 to 20, each of the joint connectors (30) has two fastening regions (34) spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (L) and is fastened to each of the two chain links (20) by one of the fastening regions (34) in each case with respect to a shift in the longitudinal direction (L). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in the 21st paragraph, with respect to the longitudinal direction (L), at least two regions of the joint connector (30) between the fastening regions (34) have at least one different characteristic selected from the group including cross-section, material thickness and elastic modulus. A device (1, 10), characterized in that in claim 21 or 22, each of said chain links (20) has two fastening receptacles (36) for form-locking and/or force-locking interaction with a fastening area (34) in each case, each fastening receptacle (36) being preferably configured between the front upper part (201A) and the front lower part (201B) or between the rear upper part (202A) and the rear lower part (202B) of said respective chain link (20); and/or each fastening receptacle (36) preferably leads in an open manner to at least one, preferably to both, of the side faces (23) of said chain link (20). In the 23rd paragraph, the device (1, 10) characterized in that each of the fastening receptacles (36) is arranged in a middle region with respect to the height direction (H) between the uppermost portion (204A) and the lowermost portion (204B), preferably, the fastening receptacles (36) are at substantially the same distance from the uppermost portion (204A) and from the lowermost portion (204B). A device (1, 10), characterized in that in claim 23 or 24, each of the chain links (20) has, at each of the fastening receptacles (36), in particular at the transition from the fastening receptacle (36) to the front or rear space (241, 242), clamping surfaces (37) spaced apart from each other in the height direction (H), facing each other, which clamping surfaces are configured for force-locking retention of the fastening area (34) of the associated joint connector (30) and for responding to a movement of the fastening area (34) relative to the corresponding fastening receptacle (36), and each of the joint connectors (30) has thickened portions (38) in the fastening areas (34) for interaction with the clamping surfaces (37). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 1 to 25, each of said joint connectors (30) has a catch means (39) in said engaging area (34), said catch means preferably being implemented for interaction with a complementary engaging catch means (39') of said associated chain link (20) with respect to said shifting in the transverse direction (Q). A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 1 to 26, some of the joint connectors (30) are implemented as substantially plate-shaped components or as curved components in a plane in which the longitudinal direction (L) and the height direction (H) lie. A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 1 to 27, the joint connectors (30) are made of a plastic material and/or the joint connectors (30) and the chain links (20) are composed of different materials. A device (1, 10), characterized in that in any one of claims 1 to 28, each chain link (20) and/or each joint connector (30) is composed of a body that is mirror-symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal central plane (L-H); and/or each chain link (20) is composed of a block member, preferably an integral block member. A device (1, 10) characterized in that in any one of claims 1 to 29, each chain link (20) and/or each joint connector (30) is integrally made of a plastic material, in particular by injection molding.