DE102024004527A1 - Energy guiding chains and/or cable guiding chains - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cable guide chain or energy chain comprising a plurality of articulated chain links. The energy chain or cable guide chain can be attached to a table leg using an adapter attached to a narrow side of the energy chain or cable guide chain.

Description

The present invention relates to an adapter, in particular a magnetic adapter, for energy guiding chains and/or cable guiding chains.

It is well known that energy chains are used to route lines and cables, allowing multiple cables to be routed precisely between two connection points. Due to the increasing number of electronic devices, energy chains are particularly popular in office workstations, where they are used to route the necessary cables between, for example, a floor outlet and the respective devices on a desk. The use of energy chains makes it possible to bundle and route cables precisely or to link desks.

To facilitate the installation of the cable drag chains, it is known to provide special fastening elements at the ends of the cable drag chains, which can be attached to the respective connection point. DE 10 2018 124 042 A1 For example, a cable guide chain with a connection point in the joint is known, which makes it possible to equip the individual link plates with fastening elements. These fastening elements are designed as separate elements and are connected to the link plates via additional retaining elements.

Furthermore, the DE 10 2014 010 112 A1 A table leg with a cable chain formed by a plurality of links, wherein the cable chain may have a plurality of locking devices selectively provided between two adjacent links of the cable chain. The locking devices may additionally be provided with fastening elements for attaching the locking device to a wall or a piece of furniture.

The DE 10 2015 005 749 A1 further describes a table leg for a height-adjustable office desk, wherein a continuous cable guide is arranged along the table leg. The cable guide comprises a plurality of interconnected chain links that can be attached to the table leg via a fastening device. The fastening device can comprise a clamp, a snap device, a screw, a magnet, a Velcro point, or the like.

The familiar fastening elements are therefore inserted either directly into the joint between two chain links or between two chain links. Accordingly, fastening elements must be specifically tailored to the respective energy chain. Since there are a multitude of different cable guide chains and energy guide chains, it is necessary to provide a correspondingly large number of different fastening elements.

The object of the present invention is to provide a magnetic adapter that can be universally connected to a wide variety of energy guiding chains and cable guiding chains. Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide an alternative solution for fastening energy guiding chains or cable guiding chains that enables simple attachment.

This object is achieved by a magnetic adapter for energy guiding chains and/or cable guiding chains, comprising a base plate and a holding arm which can be coupled to the base plate, wherein at least one magnetic element is arranged on the base plate and/or the holding arm and wherein the magnetic adapter, in the inserted state, comprises, preferably encloses, a section of the energy guiding chain or the cable guiding chain between the base plate and the holding arm.

The adapter according to the invention can therefore be very easily connected to the energy chain or cable guide chain at any time, i.e., even at a time when the energy chain or cable guide chain is already fully installed. The magnetic adapter is simply designed and can be easily attached to a table leg or similar object using the magnetic elements.

For the purposes of this application, an energy guiding chain is defined as a corresponding cable-guiding chain in which the individual chain links are connected to one another via laterally arranged joint halves. For the purposes of this application, the term "cable guiding chain" refers to chains whose individual chain elements are connected to one another via other connections, for example, centrally arranged plug-in elements.

Preferably, the base plate is connected to the support arm in an articulated manner. This reduces the number of required components and allows the adapter to be connected to the desired chain link particularly easily. In this embodiment, the free end of the support arm is coupled to the base plate so that a desired section of the chain link is completely encompassed.

Another preferred embodiment may provide that the holding arm is designed to be elastic.

According to a preferred embodiment, the energy guiding chain and/or the cable guiding chain comprises a plurality of interconnected chain links, and the magnetic adapter encloses a section of a chain link between the base plate and the support arm. The magnetic adapter is thus limited to a single chain link and can thus be attached to any position on the chain. This enables very flexible use.

According to another preferred embodiment, the base plate and the holding arm are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other. This ensures that the section of the energy guide chain or cable guide chain is easily grasped and that undesirable deformation of the magnetic adapter does not occur. At the same time, positioning the magnetic adapter on the chain link is simplified.

Furthermore, it can be provided that a spacer element is formed on at least one end of the base plate, to which the holding arm is preferably arranged in an articulated manner. The provision of the spacer element determines the distance between the base plate and the holding arm. The articulated arrangement of the holding arm allows the magnetic adapter to be placed around the section of the chain link in the form of a clip. However, the holding arm can also be designed to be elastic, thus providing mobility relative to the base plate.

Furthermore, it has proven particularly preferred if a spacer element is formed at each end of the base plate, spaced from one another, wherein the holding arm is preferably arranged in an articulated manner on one spacer element and the other spacer element is formed with a locking receptacle which can be brought into engagement with a locking element arranged on the holding arm. Here, too, the spacer elements ensure a predetermined distance between the base plate and the holding element, wherein the two elements are arranged essentially parallel to one another. The additional provision of a locking element ensures that the magnetic adapter can be firmly arranged on the chain, thus preventing it from slipping out of the chain link or easily removing the magnetic adapter from the energy guide chain. The locking element provided is easy to use and can be released at any time if the magnetic adapter is to be used in a different position.

In this context, it should be noted that both spacer elements can also be designed with a locking receptacle, to which a separately provided holding arm is then connected. In this embodiment, the holding arm is designed with corresponding locking elements at both ends.

According to another preferred embodiment, the base plate can be substantially rectangular, with at least one receiving element for a magnet, preferably flexible, arranged on each of two opposite side edges or longitudinal edges. Since the magnets are arranged next to the base plate, a better hold is achieved. At the same time, it is possible to attach the energy guide chains or cable guide chains more closely to the desired object.

It has proven particularly preferred if the receiving elements for the magnets are arranged on both sides of at least one spacer element. In this embodiment, the receiving elements are also arranged parallel to the side edges or longitudinal edges of the base plate, but are connected to the spacer elements.

Furthermore, the receiving elements can be designed with a receiving opening in the longitudinal direction of the magnet adapter, into which a magnet can be inserted. This allows the magnets to be inserted later. It is also possible to partially or completely overmold the magnets during the manufacturing process.

Another embodiment provides for an articulated section to be formed between the receiving element for magnets and the base plate or the spacer element. The formation of the articulated section makes it possible to move the receiving elements relative to the base plate. The term articulated here should not only include connections that are designed to be movable by means of a joint, but also all possible flexibly designed connections that allow the receiving element to be moved relative to the base plate or the spacer element. If the energy guide chain is to be attached to a round table leg, for example, the receiving elements can adapt to the shape of the table leg, thus ensuring that the energy guide chains are securely held on the table leg.

The magnets can preferably be aligned in such a way that the magnets repel each other when the adapter is not mounted, so that the receiving elements with the inserted magnets are aligned straight. Only when a certain distance to the ferromagnetic material of the If the object's height is exceeded, the receiving elements rest on the object, for example on a table leg.

Preferably, the height of the receiving elements can be approximately the same as the height of the spacer elements with the holding arm closed. The outer contour of the magnetic element is thus determined by the base plate, the holding arm, and the top and bottom of the receiving elements.

Furthermore, it has proven effective for each link of the energy guide chain to have two link plates arranged parallel to one another and connected by at least one crosspiece, with the magnetic adapter gripping the crosspiece. The special shape of the magnetic element makes it possible to grip the crosspiece of a corresponding chain link at any time by inserting the holding arm into the chain link and then locking it into the locking receptacle. Consequently, the magnetic adapter does not impair the function of the energy guide chain in any way and can be fixed in any position. It is possible to connect more than one magnetic adapter to chain links to achieve particularly good chain guidance.

In this case, the crossbar of the chain link is preferably held longitudinally of the energy chain between the base plate and the holding arm, and transversely between the receiving elements. Since the crossbar is firmly held between the described elements of the magnetic element, it cannot move relative to the magnetic adapter, i.e., deflect sideways, thus ensuring the secure fixation of the energy chain as a whole in a simple manner.

Preferably, the receiving elements can have a dimension in the longitudinal direction of the energy guide chains that corresponds to the distance between the crossbars of two adjacent chain links. The magnetic adapter therefore has a size that extends around the crossbar of a chain link on the one hand and simultaneously into the space between them, i.e. the distance between the crossbars and the immediately adjacent chain links. Since the receiving elements extend completely into the area of two adjacent crossbars, the mobility of the affected chain joint between the two chain links is simultaneously restricted, since the adjacent chain links can no longer be pivoted in the direction of the magnetic adapter when the magnetic adapter is inserted. The magnetic adapter can therefore not only be used to fasten the energy guide chains, but also provides a targeted influence on the movement behavior of the chain.

Preferably, four receiving elements are provided per magnetic adapter, extending laterally outward from the spacer elements. In this embodiment, the receiving elements engage the distance to both adjacent chain links, i.e., the preceding and following chain links. This allows mobility across up to three chain links to be easily controlled.

Furthermore, it has proven preferable if the width of the magnetic adapter, comprising the receiving elements and base plate, in the transverse direction of the energy chain, approximately corresponds to the distance between two opposing link elements. Consequently, the magnetic adapter completely fills the open area between two crosspieces of adjacent chain links. This further secures the position of the magnetic adapter. It should be noted that the width is dimensioned such that movement of the receiving elements is still possible, allowing them to move out of the chain link, for example, when gripping a round table leg.

According to a preferred embodiment, the magnetic adapter is manufactured in one piece. The magnetic adapter is preferably made of an elastic plastic. This ensures sufficient mobility of both the holding arm and the laterally protruding receiving elements. TBE is mentioned as an example of a suitable material.

Alternatively, the magnetic adapter can be manufactured using a two-component injection molding process and/or from several different elastic materials. In this embodiment, the base plate and the holding arm are preferably made of a non-elastic material. The holding arm can also be glued on as a component later or, preferably, molded directly onto the base plate as a single piece. In this case, the holding arm is preferably molded in the open position, as the mold construction is simpler.

A further preferred embodiment can provide for positioning means to be formed in the area of the base plate, which can be brought into engagement with corresponding positioning means on the energy guiding chain or cable chain. By providing appropriate positioning means, it is possible to position the adapter precisely and fixedly on the energy guiding chain or cable chain. For this purpose, the adapter is simply pushed onto the crosspiece until the Positioning devices engage with each other and then the holding arm is fixed.

• 1 einen Abschnitt einer Energieführungskette mit einem abgetrennten Kettenglied,
• 2 den erfindungsgemäßen Magnetadapter in einer perspektivischen Darstellung, gezeigt seitlich von vorne,
• 3 den Magnetadapter aus 2 in einer perspektivischen Darstellung, gezeigt seitlich von hinten,
• 4 den Magnetadapter aus 2 und 3 in einer perspektivischen Darstellung gezeigt von unten,
• 5 den Magnetadapter gemäß der 2 bis 4 in einer Seitenansicht,
• 6 den Magnetadapter gemäß der 2 bis 5 in einer Ansicht von vorne, mit offenem Haltearm,
• 7 den Magnetadapter gemäß der 2 bis 6 in einer Ansicht von vorne, mit geschlossenem Haltearm,
• 8 den Magnetadapter gemäß der 2 bis 7 in einer Ansicht von oben, mit geschlossenem Haltearm,
• 9 den Magnetadapter gemäß der 2 bis 8 angeordnet an einem Kettenglied gemäß 1,
• 10 drei aufeinanderfolgende Kettenglieder gemäß 1 mit einem dazwischen angeordneten Magnetadapter gemäß der 2 bis 8,
• 11 einen erfindungsgemäßen Magnetadapter mit zusätzlichen Positionierungsmitteln,
• 12 einen erfindungsgemäßen Adapter angeordnet an einer kurzen Seite eines Kettengliedes
• 13 eine Kette aus Kettengliedern gemäß 12, mit der Anordnung des Magnetadapters gemäß 12, und
• 14 ein Anschnitt einer Energieführungskette, wobei der Magnetadapter zwischen zwei Kettenglieden an den Deitenlaschen befestigt ist.

Preferably, the positioning devices can be designed as tongue-and-groove connections. Corresponding positioning means can be easily formed on both the adapter and the crosspiece and easily engaged. Particularly preferably, projections or spring elements are arranged on the adapter in the area of the base plate and/or in the area of the holding arm. If two projections or springs are provided on both the base plate and the holding arm, they are preferably arranged on opposite sides. This allows the crosspiece, which is provided with corresponding grooves, to be fixed between the two projections or springs and prevent it from slipping. An exemplary embodiment of the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing. In the drawings:

• 1 a section of an energy chain with a separated chain link,
• 2 the magnetic adapter according to the invention in a perspective view, shown from the side from the front,
• 3 the magnetic adapter 2 in a perspective view, shown from the side from behind,
• 4 the magnetic adapter 2 and 3 in a perspective view shown from below,
• 5 the magnetic adapter according to the 2 to 4 in a side view,
• 6 the magnetic adapter according to the 2 to 5 in a front view, with the holding arm open,
• 7 the magnetic adapter according to the 2 to 6 in a front view, with the holding arm closed,
• 8 the magnetic adapter according to the 2 to 7 in a view from above, with the holding arm closed,
• 9 the magnetic adapter according to the 2 to 8 arranged on a chain link according to 1 ,
• 10 three consecutive chain links according to 1 with a magnetic adapter arranged in between according to the 2 to 8 ,
• 11 a magnetic adapter according to the invention with additional positioning means,
• 12 an adapter according to the invention arranged on a short side of a chain link
• 13 a chain of chain links according to 12 , with the arrangement of the magnetic adapter according to 12 , and
• 14 a section of an energy chain, with the magnetic adapter attached between two chain links on the end plates.

1 shows a cable guide chain 1 for guiding electrical cables (not shown here). The cable guide chain 1 comprises a plurality of chain links 2 connected to one another longitudinally, with one of the chain links 2 being separated to better illustrate its functionality.

Each chain link 2 has opposing, laterally spaced, and parallel link elements 3 and 4. Each link element 3, 4 has an inner surface and an outer surface, as well as two narrow sides opposite one another in terms of the link height. The two link elements 3, 4 are connected to one another via a crossbar 5, the crossbar 5 being arranged at a lower or upper edge of the link element. Opposite the crossbar 5 is another crossbar, which is interrupted by a slot 7 into two crossbar sections or slats 6.

Each link element 3, 4 is provided at its ends with a joint half 8 or 9. The joint halves 8 have a cylindrical projection 10 directed towards the outside of the chain, while the joint halves 9 have a circular recess 11. The joint half 8 is recessed so that, in conjunction with the joint half 8, a uniform thickness of the link elements is also achieved in the area of the joint half 9. In the embodiment according to 1 The circular recess 11 is designed as a blind hole, so that a smooth surface is created on the outer side 12 of the tab elements 3, 4. Similarly, the side 13 of the tab elements facing away from the projections is also smooth. As can be seen particularly well from 1 As can be seen, both the outer side 12 and the inner side of the tab elements are smooth.

The energy guide chain shown is only an example; the recesses 11 can also be continuous.

For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that the energy chain can also be fitted with a locking bracket made of may be formed or may have other openings for threading the cables.

In 2 A magnetic adapter 14 is shown in perspective, viewed obliquely from the front and top. The magnetic adapter 14 comprises a base plate 15, a holding arm 16, two spacer elements 17, 18, and four receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22.

The base plate 15 is essentially rectangular, with the longer side edges being arranged in the longitudinal direction of the energy guide chains 1 when in use. On the base plate 15, a spacer element 17, 18 is formed at each of the two ends, viewed in the longitudinal direction, which extends upwards from the base plate 15. Each spacer element 17, 18 is rectangular or square and extends in the transverse direction of the energy guide chains across the entire width of the base plate 15. The holding arm 16 is arranged on a spacer element 18; in particular, the upper side of the spacer element 18 merges into the holding arm 16. The spacer element 18 is opposite the spacer element 17, so that the holding arm is arranged essentially parallel to the base plate 15. The parallelism is created in a closed state of the holding arm 16. Between the spacer element 18 and the holding arm 16, an articulated or elastic region 23 is formed, which makes it possible to move the holding arm 16 relative to the base plate 15. The holding arm is arranged only in the upper region of the spacer element 18, so that a predetermined distance is formed between the holding arm and the base plate. The second spacer element 17 is formed with a locking recess 25, which, as shown for example in 4 shown, extends through the entire spacer element as well as the base plate 15. On the surface of the holding arm 16 facing the spacer element 17, a locking projection 24 is formed, which can be pressed into the locking receptacle 25 to close the magnetic adapter 14 in order to engage therewith.

Of course, it is also possible to create a connection between the holding arm and the spacer element in other ways, for example with a push button, twist lock, latch, etc.

On the lateral outer surfaces of the spacer elements 17, 18, ie the outer surface arranged in the longitudinal direction of the energy guide chains 1, receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 are arranged. As in 6 As shown, the receiving elements are connected to the spacer element via a thin web 26, 27. The web 26, 27 extends approximately midway between the spacer element 17, 18 and the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22, as shown, for example, in the 6 or 7 shown. The web 26, 27 has a thickness that allows relative movement of the spacer elements 19, 20, 21, 22 to the base plate 15 and thus also to the holding arm 16. The movement is possible primarily in the transverse direction, whereby the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 can move radially upward or downward.

The mobility of the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 can be influenced, on the one hand, by the thickness of the webs 26, 27 and, on the other hand, by their positioning between the receiving element 19, 20, 21, 22 and the spacer element 17, 18. The further down, i.e., in the direction of the base plate 15, the web 26, 27 is arranged, the more mobile the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 are in the direction of the coupling points, for example, a table leg, since the movement is not impaired by possible contact or obstruction by the spacer elements.

Each receiving element 19, 20, 21, 22 has a through-opening that also extends in the longitudinal direction of the magnetic adapter. Magnets can be inserted into these through-openings, which then ensure easy attachment of the magnetic adapter to another ferromagnetic material. Thanks to the articulated section, i.e., the webs 26, 27, the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 equipped with magnets can then be docked onto any ferromagnetic surface and easily grip, for example, a round table leg made of ferromagnetic steel. The magnetic adapter 14 can therefore easily adapt to the shape of the table leg.

The magnets can be simply inserted after the magnet adapter has been manufactured, or they can be overmolded during the manufacturing process. In this case, the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, and 22 are preferably manufactured without a through-hole.

7 shows the magnetic adapter 14 in a closed state. Here, it is clear that the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 are arranged in a plane with the spacer element 17, 18 or the base plate 15. The webs 26, 27 extend approximately at a mid-height between the spacer elements 17, 18 and the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22, and the upper side of the holding arm 16 and the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 are also approximately in a plane. If necessary, the holding arm 16 can also be arranged below the upper side of the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22, however, It is preferred that the upper side of the holding arm 16 does not extend over the surface of the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22.

In 5 The joint 23 between the spacer element 18 and the holding arm 16 is shown in more detail. The two spacer elements 16, 17 extend upward from both ends of the base plate 15, and the holding arm 16 is arranged on one of the spacer elements 18. As already explained, in the closed state, this forms an extension of the surface of the spacer element 18 and is angled away from it by an articulated region 23. The holding arm 16 preferably has a preload so that it is automatically pushed into a position away from the base plate 15. This facilitates the insertion of the magnetic adapter 14 into a chain link 2.

In 8 The magnetic adapter is shown from above, with a view of the open holding arm 16. It is clear that in the illustrated embodiment, the holding arm 16 does not extend completely over the spacer element 17, but rather ends at a slight distance from it. The positioning of the holding arm 16 on the spacer element 17 is determined by the position of the locking receptacle 25 and the locking element 24. However, the holding arm 16 can also be designed with a different desired length, for example, longer than the spacer element, the same length, or even shorter.

9 shows a single chain link with a magnetic adapter 14 arranged thereon. It is clear that the magnetic adapter 14 engages around the crosspiece 5 of the chain link 2 between the holding arm 16 and the base plate 15. The distance between the holding arm 16 and the base plate 15 therefore essentially corresponds to the height of the crosspiece 5 of the chain link 2, so that the latter is firmly grasped. Since the holding arm 16 and the base plate 15 are relatively thin, i.e. have at most the thickness of a crosspiece 5, the insertion of the holding arm 16 into the area of the chain link does not significantly impair the interior of the chain link 2 in which the cables or lines are routed. In addition, the chain link 2 fastened via the adapter 1 according to the invention is only very slightly spaced from the fastening surface, for example a table leg.

The receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 extend in the transverse direction of the chain link 2 approximately to the inside of the link plate elements 3, 4 of the chain link 2. In this case, dimensions are preferably selected such that the magnetic adapter 14 and in particular the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 are not clamped laterally, so that the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 can move upwards and in particular downwards in an articulated manner relative to the transverse direction of the chain link 2 if necessary.

10 shows the magnetic adapter 14 attached to a chain link 2 and arranged between several movably connected chain links 2. In comparison with 1 , in which the crosspieces 5 of adjacent, interconnected chain links 2 are always equally spaced from each other, the adapter now fills this gap. This means that in the longitudinal direction, the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 have a dimension that essentially corresponds to the distance between two opposing crosspieces 5.

In this area, the deflection between the chain links 2 in the direction of the magnetic adapter 14 is consequently limited or prevented. This provides a very simple way of creating a rigid section in the area of the energy chain 1. By using several corresponding magnetic adapters 14 in series, the rigid section can be designed to any desired length and thus precisely adjusted. At the same time, it is possible to connect the rigid section to a table leg, whereby movement of the energy chain 1 relative to the table leg is prevented, but rather it is guided straight along the table leg.

For the sake of completeness, it is pointed out that in order to achieve a rigid section in the area of the energy chain 1, the magnetic adapter 14 can also be used without additional magnets, for example if a rigid section of the chain is desired but it does not have to be fastened.

The embodiments of the magnetic adapter 14 described above and shown in the figures were designed such that four receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 are arranged at the ends in the longitudinal direction of the base plate 15 or the spacer elements 17, 18. Likewise, it is possible to design the magnetic adapter 14 with only one magnet, wherein this magnet can be arranged on the underside of the base plate 15. Here, the underside of the base plate 15 can be designed as a receiving element. Likewise, the magnetic adapter can have only a single magnet, which is arranged on the base plate and extends into a space between two transverse webs.

At the same time, it is possible to provide 2, 3, 6 or any number of receiving elements for magnets on the magnetic adapter.

As explained with reference to the embodiments described above, the magnetic adapter 14 is arranged on a crossbar 5 of a chain link 2. This crossbar 5 does not have to be a continuous crossbar; rather, the magnetic adapter can also be arranged on the opposite side, so that the slot between two crossbar sections 6 lies between the holding arm and the base plate. The magnetic adapter can also be used in conjunction with divisible chain links, in particular chain links that are designed to be divisible in the region of the crossbars. Here, the magnetic adapter preferably encompasses the area of the crossbar that has the slot.

Likewise, if the specific situation requires it, it is possible to attach the magnetic adapter directly to the area of a joint between two chain links, so that a transverse fastening of the energy chain 1 is also conceivable. The magnetic adapter 14 can therefore be used flexibly.

For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that the chain link can be a rigid cable guide profile whose length is several times that of a normal chain link.

Likewise, the magnetic adapter 14 can be arranged on any other energy guiding chain, cable chain, or energy guiding profile, regardless of how the chain links 2 are connected. Even if the individual chain links 2 are connected to one another via centrally arranged joints, the magnetic adapter can simply encompass a section of a chain link 2, thus providing a simple fastening option.

The magnetic adapter 14 according to the invention is preferably manufactured in one piece from an elastic plastic. However, it is equally possible to manufacture the magnetic adapter 14 from different materials, so that the materials are each adapted to the corresponding component or part of the magnetic adapter 14. For example, the holding arm 16 can be clipped on later as a separate component. The holding arm 16 is preferably molded in the open state, as this simplifies the mold construction.

From the previous figures it is clear that the magnetic adapter is constructed mirror-symmetrically in the longitudinal direction of the chain link.

Although in the illustrated embodiment the holding arm 16 is connected to the spacer element 18 via a joint 23, at the same time it would also be possible to provide a locking receptacle 25 on each of the two spacer elements 17, 18 as well as two locking elements 24 on the holding arm 16 designed as an extra molded part.

In 11 Another magnetic adapter is shown, which corresponds to the magnetic adapter shown in the previous figures. However, the magnetic adapter shown here additionally has positioning means, ie, positioning projections 28, 29.

The positioning projections 28, 29 are designed as web sections and are arranged on both the base plate 14 and the holding arm 16. Here, the positioning projection 28 is arranged adjacent to the spacer element 18 and extends to the base plate 15, and the positioning projection 29 is arranged adjacent to the spacer element 17 and extends to the holding arm 16. In use, a corresponding magnetic adapter is connected to a chain link in which at least one crossbar is formed with corresponding grooves. When the positioning projections 28, 29 engage in the grooves, the adapter is arranged in the desired position and can no longer be moved along the crossbar.

One of the positioning devices can be designed with undercuts, which allows the adapter to be fixed to the chain link before it is closed. A corresponding positioning means is preferably provided on the holding arm.

Using the magnetic adapter 1 according to the invention, it is also possible to easily attach cable guide chains, usually with a rectangular outer shell, to objects. The chain link is then formed with a preferably central plug-in connection or hinged connection. Depending on the requirements, the magnetic adapter can be connected either to a narrow side, comparable to the side walls, or to a long side, comparable to the crossbars.

A corresponding lateral fastening, ie an adapter 14 arranged on the short side or side web 33 of a chain link 30, is particularly advantageous when a cable duct arranged between the table top and the floor does not extend laterally to the table leg or table leg edge of a desk. Depending on the application, this can avoid the use of an additional cantilever arm, which would have to bridge the distance between a cable duct that does not extend to the table legs. If a cable duct is formed on a piece of furniture that does not extend to the side walls of the table legs, level, preferably a cable chain with the as in 12 attached to the inside of the table leg using the magnetic adapters shown.

Furthermore, the cable chain can be routed particularly smoothly along a table leg, as the chain's natural bending allows it to be guided from the vertical position along the table leg to the horizontal position along the floor crossbar. Previously, this often required converting the vertical chain into a horizontal position using an adapter or other complex measures, or first routing the cable chain from the table crossbar on the floor to the floor and then continuing.

In 12 A corresponding chain link 30 is shown, with the magnetic adapter 14 attached to a side bar 30. The chain link 30 comprises a cross bar 31 and two oppositely arranged cross bar sections 32. The cross bar sections 32 extend toward each other and are separated by a slot 35. The cross bar 31 is connected to each other via side bars 33, so that the chain link is rectangular.

Coupling means 34 are arranged on an inner side of the crosspiece, opposite the slot 35. In this case, the coupling means are connector receptacles or connector projections. Two coupling means are provided, separated from each other by a central tunnel section. However, only one coupling means can also be provided.

The adapter 14 is attached to the chain link in such a way that a side bar 33 is fixed between the support arm 16 and the base plate 15. The receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 then extend approximately from all corner areas of the side bar 33.

In this case, the dimensions of the magnetic adapter 14 are selected such that the width of the magnetic adapter essentially corresponds to the length of the inner side of the side web 33 between the cross web 31 and the cross web section 32. In this case, the positioning means are formed by the cross web 31 and the cross web section 32. However, it is also possible to provide additional positioning means.

The receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 are designed such that they are arranged at least in sections in the distance between two chain links 30.

In 13 , a cable chain formed from chain links 30 is shown, which is arranged on a height-adjustable table leg 36 between cable duct 37 and floor outlet 39. The cable chain is attached to the table leg by means of the magnetic adapter 14 arranged on a side web. A second magnetic adapter 14 is located in the area of the upper end section of the straight part of the cable chain, hidden by the curve in the present illustration. By arranging the cable chain laterally on the table leg, it can be very securely attached in the area in which it runs along the table leg. In addition, the free area from the table leg to the cable duct can roll freely in the desired manner when the table is adjusted in height. The cable duct 37 ends at an imaginary extension of the inner flank of the table leg. By arranging the cable chain on the inside of the table leg, the upper end of the cable chain can still be connected in or on the cable duct without having to be deflected sideways.

The cable duct can be positioned at any technically feasible height between the floor and the tabletop. It can be attached to the tabletop or to other frame components, crossbars, etc.

Locating the cable guide chain or energy chain on the side of the table leg is also a preferred application for standard tables that are not designed as sit-stand tables. Here, the cable chain or energy chain is also well protected, preferably located in an imaginary plane on the inside of the table leg. This reduces the risk of accidents and makes the side view of the table appear tidy and attractive.

Arranging a cable chain or energy chain on the inside of a table leg, preferably with the unwinding direction shown, transverse to the table top or lengthwise to the table cross member 38 in the case of height-adjustable tables, also has the advantage that a floor outlet located below the table top can be particularly well connected to the cable chain or energy chain. A particular advantage is that the cable chain or energy chain does not end on the cross member 38 as was previously the case, but next to it. This means that the cable guide chain or energy chain no longer has to overcome a height difference between the cross member and the floor, which also prevents the cable chain or energy guide chain from accidentally slipping off the cross member.

It is clear that this attachment particularly supports the natural movement of the chain, so that no additional cable guide elements are necessary.

As in 14 The magnetic adapter can also be used with a chain link 2, as shown in 1 darge , in the area of the side plates 3, 4. The magnetic adapter 14 with the holding arm 16 is inserted between two crosspieces 5 of adjacent chain links 2 and placed on the inside of the side plates 3, 4. After the holding arm is fixed, the base plate is located on the outside of the side plate. The magnetic adapter thus encloses the joint.

The dimensions of the magnetic adapter 14 can be selected such that the receiving elements 19, 20, 21, 22 are arranged at the upper and lower edges of the side flaps.

As a precautionary measure, it is pointed out that the positioning of a cable chain according to the invention, as in 13 shown, can also be achieved by means other than the magnetic adapter and the arrangement is also claimed to be unique.

List of reference symbols

1

Energy chain

2

chain link

3

Tab element

4

Tab element

5

crossbar

6

Crossbar sections or slats

7

slot

8

joint half

9

joint half

10

cylindrical projection

11

circular recess

12

outside

13

side facing away from the projections

14

Magnetic adapter

15

Base plate

16

Holding arm

17

spacer element

18

spacer element

19

Receiving element

20

Receiving element

21

Receiving element

22

Receiving element

23

joint

24

locking projection

25

Snap-in mount

26

web

27

web

28

Positioning projection

29

Positioning projection

30

chain link

31

crossbar

32

Cross-web sections

33

side bridge

34

Coupling agent

35

slot

36

table leg

37

cable duct

38

Table crossbar

39

Floor outlet

QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

Cited patent literature

• DE 10 2018 124 042 A1 [0003]
• DE 10 2014 010 112 A1 [0004]
• DE 10 2015 005 749 A1 [0005]

Claims (11)

Cable guide chain or energy chain comprising a plurality of chain links connected to one another in an articulated manner, characterized in that the energy chain or cable guide chain can be fastened to a table leg with an adapter fastened to a narrow side of the energy chain or cable guide chain. Cable guide chain or energy chain according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the adapter is a magnetic adapter. Cable guide chain or energy chain according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein a chain link has a side bar, and wherein the adapter is attached to the side bar. Cable guide chain or energy chain according to Claim 3 , wherein the chain link additionally comprises a transverse web (31) and two oppositely arranged transverse web sections (32), and wherein the transverse web (31) and the transverse web sections are connected to one another via side webs (33), so that the chain link is rectangular. Cable guide chain or energy chain according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chain links are formed with a central plug connection or articulated connection. Cable guide chain or energy chain according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter comprises a base plate (15) and a holding arm (16) which can be coupled to the base plate (15). Cable guide chain or energy chain according to Claim 6 , wherein a spacer element (17, 18) is formed on the adapter at at least one end of the base plate (15), to which the holding arm (16) is arranged in an articulated manner. Table comprising a table leg and an energy chain or cable guide chain according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy chain or cable guide chain is fastened to the table leg of the table with an adapter fastened to the narrow side of the energy chain or cable guide chain. Table after Claim 8 , wherein the table leg is height adjustable and wherein the table leg is in particular a telescopic table leg. Table after one of the Claims 8 until 9 , wherein a cable duct arranged between a table top and the floor does not extend laterally to the table leg or table leg edge of the table and wherein the energy chain or cable guide chain bridges a distance between the cable duct and the table leg. Table after one of the Claims 8 until 10 , wherein a cable duct arranged between a table top and the floor extends laterally to the inner edge of the table leg and wherein the energy chain or cable guide chain is arranged at the end section of the cable duct.