Patent Application
20130305854
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a swing leaf actuator, adapted to move a connected swing leaf and an intended mounting of such a swing leaf actuator.
2. Description of the Related Art
Two embodiments are known for swing leaf actuators: Door closers and swing leaf operators. Door closers differ from swing leaf operators in that a door closer is able to move a connected swing leaf mostly in a mechanical manner in only one direction, mainly in closing direction. However, swing leaf operators generally have a motor drive and, if required, a mechanical closer portion. The motor drive and the closer portion move the connected swing leaf in respective opposite directions.
This action is realized in that an output shaft of the swing leaf actuator is directly operatively connected to the swing leaf to be moved, or indirectly via a transmission or an arm assembly. The swing leaf actuator is thus able to move or to pivot the connected swing leaf by the rotation of the output shaft. In this case, the output shaft extends essentially vertically to a longitudinal extension of the swing leaf actuator and namely in the direction of the height extension of the swing leaf actuator, on account of its usual installation.
Depending on a weight of the swing leaf, the output shaft and the components of the swing leaf actuator disposed thereon in a torque-proof manner, such as a toothed wheel or a cam disc, are exposed to enormous driving forces, respectively torques of the swing leaf actuator or of the swing leaf, as soon as a force is exerted on the latter from the outside for example by wind load or by a person. This is why the output shaft is usually welded to the components disposed thereon in a torque-proof manner, or is inherently integrally manufactured, for example by forging. Screwing is unfavorable, because the screws would loosen under operation and therefore might cause damage inside the swing leaf actuator. Leaving aside this fact, the output shaft, the components mounted thereon and the bearings required for the rotation-free reception of the output shaft in the housing of the swing leaf actuator, need to be assembled prior to being inserted into the housing. Therefore, the relative position of the components with regard to each other must be previously determined; subsequent modifications are not possible or are possible only at a very high technical expense and high cost (uninstalling the swing leaf actuator, exchange of the output shaft, including all components, and re-assembling the swing leaf actuator). This relates in particular to the output shaft, as a highly stressed component of the swing leaf actuator, if the output shaft has been deformed for example during operation.
In order for the swing leaf actuator to be installed with the four common installation types, namely swing leaf installation (swing leaf actuator is mounted onto a swing leaf to be moved by the actuator)/overhead frame installation (swing leaf actuator is affixed to a stationary component of the leaf arrangement, such as a leaf frame, lintel or the like, generally above the swing leaf the actuator is supposed to move) on the pull-side (access direction in the closing direction of the swing leaf, respectively on the side on which the door hinges of the swing leaf can be seen)/push-side (access direction in the opening direction of the swing leaf, respectively on the side on which the door hinges of the swing leaf cannot be seen), the output shaft of the actuator has a connecting portion at both ends, for example in the shape of respectively a square, for torque-proof mounting, for example a pivot arm of an arm assembly. In order to make said drive portions accessible for attaching other components, said portions protrude beyond the rest of the swing leaf actuator. In other words, the length of the output shaft, and not the rest of the swing leaf actuator, determines the maximum exterior dimensions of the swing leaf actuator along the longitudinal extension of the output shaft, namely the height of the actuator. The two protruding driving portions of the swing leaf actuator thus result in increasing the height of the rest of the swing leaf actuator, which is in contrast to the desire for visually less conspicuous, in particular sleek or flat swing leaf actuators.
It is the object of the invention to at least reduce at least one of the above mentioned disadvantages.
The inventive swing leaf actuator has an output shaft and a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism comprises at least one drive portion, which includes respectively one component disposed on the output shaft in a torque-proof manner. By this component, thus associated to the respective drive portion, said portion is operatively connected to the output shaft and rotationally drives the output shaft in at least one direction. The drive portion is thus able to effect a rotation of the output shaft. The output shaft essentially extends vertically to a longitudinal extension of the swing leaf actuator. At least at one end, the shaft has a connecting portion configured to be rotationally and operatively connected to a swing leaf. This means, rotating the output shaft results in rotating, respectively in pivoting the respective swing leaf. According to one embodiment of the invention, the output shaft is disposed to be translationally movable in each of the components which are disposed thereon in a torque-proof manner, and namely along the axis of rotation, thus essentially perpendicularly with regard to the longitudinal extension of the swing leaf actuator. It is thus possible to displace the output shaft to the end of the swing leaf actuator and to have it protrude from the housing thereof, to which end the swing leaf to be connected or to be moved or an interposed transmission, such as an arm assembly, a chain drive, or the like is to be attached.
It is thereby possible to retract the other end of the output shaft into the swing leaf actuator, so as to preferably terminate flush with the housing thereof. Because the output shaft, compared to the state-of-the-art, can be shortened, on the one hand, the overall height of the swing leaf actuator can be reduced or minimized. On the other hand, material and cost can be saved thereby.
Furthermore, mounting the swing leaf actuator may be simplified and a potential subsequent exchanging of the output shaft may be made possible or simplified. In the best case scenario, mounting is simplified in that the output shaft is put in place once the swing leaf actuator is assembled. Initially the output shaft is inserted into a respective component to be torque-proof with regard to the component. Thereupon, the position of rotation of the arrangement with regard to the rest of the swing leaf actuator can be modified or adjusted by turning the output shaft about its axis. This is advantageous, if this component is a cam disc. Depending on the installation situation, the cam disc may now be turned such that the swing leaf actuator exerts the desired motive power on the connected swing leaf.
In addition, the cost intensive, integral configuration of the output shaft together with the one or more components, respectively the expensive, permanent interconnection of said components by welding or forging can be foregone. As the integral configuration is abandoned, the output shaft and the components may be manufactured from different, respectively perfectly adapted materials. As the permanent connection of the output shaft to the one or more components is likewise abandoned, the output shaft and the one or more components can be optimized with regard to the respective mechanical load, without having to consider whether or not the respective materials can be welded.
In a swing leaf actuator, in which the output shaft thereof has a connecting portion at only one end, namely protrudes from the swing leaf actuator only at this location, the output shaft may be completely inserted into the swing leaf actuator, for example for the purpose of transporting.
Advantageously, the torque-proof arrangement between the output shaft and the one or more components, disposed in a torque-proof manner thereon, is realized via positive engagement. This allows for simply pushing the output shaft and the one or more components together and a torque-proof connection is achieved.
Preferably the configuration of the at least one drive portion is based on cams and, within the framework of one embodiment of the invention, forms a first of the at least one drive portions. Accordingly, this first drive portion comprises a cam disc, disposed to be torque-proof on the output shaft and thus represents the above mentioned component. Furthermore, the drive portion comprises a pressure roller, disposed in a known manner to be parallel to the axis of rotation of the cam disc and to be freely rotatable. This drive portion furthermore comprises a tensioning device operatively connected to the pressure roller such that the tensioning device urges the pressure roller perpendicularly with regard to its axis of rotation against a running surface of the cam disc. As a result, the pressure roller rolls on and presses onto the cam disc in a known manner and is thereby able to effect a rotation of the cam disc. The drive portion is preferably configured to move the swing leaf in a question in closing direction.
The pressure roller is preferably received to be freely rotatable in a transmission component, which is essentially disposed to be movable perpendicularly to an axis of rotation of the cam disc and translationally in a housing of the swing leaf actuator. This circumstance allows for spatially separating the pressure roller from the above mentioned tensioning device.
The configuration of said first drive portion may likewise be based on toothed racks. In this case, the drive portion comprises a toothed wheel as a component, disposed on the output shaft in a torque-proof manner, and a piston. The piston is received in the housing of the swing leaf actuator to be guided and translationally movable towards the output shaft and away from the latter. In addition, the piston has a toothed portion, which essentially extends along its path of movement and meshes with the toothed wheel. Finally, a tensioning device is provided, which is operatively connected to the piston such that it urges the piston in the direction of the output shaft or away from the output shaft. It is by this urging force that the piston is displaced in a known manner, whereupon the rotation of the output shaft is effected via the teeth of the piston meshing with the toothed wheel.
The above mentioned tensioning device is preferably configured as a mechanical energy accumulator, for example in the shape of a coil spring.
Preferably within the framework of the invention, the above mentioned at least one drive portion forms a second drive portion. Said second drive portion comprises a motor, which is rotationally and operatively connected to the aforementioned component or to another component, which is disposed on the output shaft in a torque-proof manner. In other words, it is a motive drive portion having the same effect on the output shaft as the one of the above mentioned drive portions.
Preferably, the inventive swing leaf actuator has both one of the above described first and said second drive portions. In this case, the drive portions are operatively connected to the output shaft such that the output shaft is driven by the drive portions in opposite directions of rotation. In other words, the two drive portions operate in opposite directions with regard to each other and thus form a swing leaf actuator, which is adapted to turn, respectively to pivot the connected swing leaf in both directions.
In case of a cam drive, the above mentioned transmission component preferably bypasses the output shaft such that the pressure roller is disposed at a side of the cam disc facing away from the tensioning device. This allows for a particularly simple possibility to reliably position the pressure roller with regard to the cam disc.
Preferably the transmission component and/or the cam disc are/is disposed respectively with at least one portion between the components of the drive portions. As a result, it is possible to stationarily dispose the components along the axis of rotation of the output shaft in the housing of the swing leaf actuator by already provided rotary bearings, respectively bearing components, whereby the number of required construction parts is kept small. This goes hand in hand with the possibility of achieving an optimized flat design of the arrangement of components and cam disc.
Furthermore and preferably, the one or more components of the drive portion(s) is/are stationarily received in the housing in a direction parallel with regard to the axis of rotation of the output shaft, and therefore positioned with regard to the entire swing leaf actuator. They are thereby prevented from being moved along when the output shaft is translationally moved in relation to them, and are therefore prevented from suspending the aforementioned rotational and operative connection(s).
In the event bearing components are provided, they will be stationarily disposed in the housing of the swing leaf actuator. It is via said bearing components that the one or more components, which are disposed on the output shaft in a torque-proof manner, are disposed to be freely rotatable in the housing. In other words, the bearing components do not only serve for the rotational support, but also for the positioning of the one or more components, which means furthermore a relatively small number of structural components is required.
Preferably, in the event of two components with intermediate cam disc, a spacer is provided between said two components. In conjunction with the transmission component, not only the possibility is offered to keep the components at a predetermined distance from each other, but to provide guidance for the transmission component at the same time.
Preferably the output shaft of at least one of the above described swing leaf actuators, seen along its axis of rotation, has an exterior contour, which, along its extension, has a changing distance to the center of rotation of the output shaft. In other words, the output shaft has a non-circular cross-section and/or the center of the axis of rotation of the output shaft is located off-center, such that an eccentric rotation of the output shaft results. The respective component, which is disposed on the output shaft in a torque-proof manner, therefore has a corresponding interior contour, which is configured such that the respective component, with its interior contour at least in portions, is positively engaged in the exterior contour of the output shaft, such that the respective component is disposed to be torque-proof with regard to the output shaft. In other words, the interior contour of the component does not have to be necessarily configured (completely) complementary to the corresponding exterior contour of the output shaft.
Furthermore, the inventive swing leaf actuator has a device releasably immobilizing the output shaft in order to prevent it from moving along its axis of rotation. It is thereby possible to immobilize the output shaft in its final operating position with regard to the swing leaf actuator, respectively with regard to the arm assembly to be articulated, with regard to a gear to be coupled or with regard to the swing leaf to be coupled, in order to move the very same swing leaf. The releasability function allows for subsequently changing the operating position. In particular the swing leaf actuator, respectively the output shaft thereof may be adapted on-site to the desired type of installation.
The inventive swing leaf actuator may have a special attachment device with an attachment screw. A torque transmitting component, for example in the shape of a pivot arm or arm assembly, cylindrical gear or the like, is affixed in a torque-proof manner to the output shaft via such a screw, such that, even if the screw rotates in the unscrewing direction up to a predetermined degree, said torque transmitting component will be retained at the output shaft and remain disposed in a torque-proof manner thereat. In other words, the screw does not necessarily lose any of its restraining function. Such unscrewing may arise for example in the event of vibrations at the swing leaf actuator, swing leaf or the like. Said type of screw connection increases the safety of operating the swing leaf actuator.
Furthermore, the embodiment of the inventive swing leaf actuator allows for a very simple mounting method. Initially, the method comprises a step in which the drive mechanism is inserted into a housing of the swing leaf actuator. The one or more components to be disposed on the output shaft in a torque-proof manner (however not yet put in place) is/are aligned and immobilized in their alignment position in such a way that the output shaft can be inserted into said one or more components without encountering any major resistance, respectively that the components can be placed onto the output shaft one after the other. Immobilizing may be realized in that the aforementioned tensioning device initially remains functionally separate from the output shaft, in that a closer spring for example, as a special embodiment, is not able to urge a potentially provided pressure roller against said cam disc. In this position, the output shaft is to be inserted into the one or more components in a following step, whereby simultaneously the output shaft and the one or more components are disposed to be torque-proof with regard to each other. In other words, the output shaft can be subsequently uninstalled, which benefits the exchangeability of this highly stressed component of the swing leaf actuator. Finally, and if required, the above mentioned tensioning device needs to be activated by unblocking for example, such that the device becomes effective in the framework of the first drive portion.
When utilizing one of the above described cam-based swing leaf actuators, the method can be modified in that the step of inserting the drive mechanism into the housing is realized such that the tensioning device is prevented from urging the pressure roller against the cam disc. As a result the pressure roller cannot interfere with inserting the output shaft. In addition, following the step of inserting, the method comprises an additional step of inserting the tensioning device into the drive mechanism in such a way or a step of transferring the tensioning device in such a condition that the tensioning device urges the pressure roller against the cam disc. As a result, the tensioning device is able to correspondingly set the output shaft in rotation.
An alternative mounting method provides initially inserting the output shaft into the components which are to be affixed thereon in a torque-proof manner. Thereafter, or during this operation, at least the components which are disposed the furthest on the outside, are immobilized or blocked up to a predetermined degree, in order to prevent them from moving in relation to the output shaft along the axis of rotation of the output shaft. As a result, the other components disposed there between cannot be removed any more from the output shaft. The thus formed arrangement represents therefore a sort of output module, which can be manipulated and installed as a unit. The thus configured output module is therefore inserted into the swing leaf actuator in a last step. This solution is in particular suitable for swing leaf actuators, where the housing comprises two halves. This circumstance allows for inserting the output module into receptions for example for bearings of the output shaft and then to place and fasten the other housing half on top.
This method is preferably expanded in that, following the insertion of the output module into the swing leaf actuator, the above mentioned immobilization of the components, disposed the furthest on the outside to prevent them from moving in relation to the output shaft along the axis of rotation of the output shaft, is being released. This solution has the advantage of being able to move the output shaft more easily along its axis of rotation following the last step.
As an alternative or in addition, the above mentioned methods may furthermore include a step of releasably immobilizing the output shaft to prevent the output shaft from translationally moving along its axis of rotation. This fact allows for a traditional connection of arm assembly, gear, or of a rotation shaft of a swing leaf.
Furthermore, the invention relates to a mounting device. According to one embodiment of the invention, the mounting device is adapted to be utilized for one of the above described installation methods. The mounting device includes elements which are configured on the one hand to align the output shaft with regard to the components which are to be affixed thereon in a torque-proof manner, in that, as already described above; the output shaft can be inserted into the respective component, or can be moved into it. In other words, said elements preferably serve to rotate the output shaft in relation to the component to be respectively affixed thereon in a torque-proof manner. On the other hand, said elements are configured to move the output shaft, once aligned, through the respective component to be affixed thereon in a torque-proof manner, respectively to insert the output shaft into the component. In other words, rotating the output shaft in relation to the respective component is stopped or prevented. In other words and according to the invention, the elements have a dual function: aligning and pushing the output shaft in.
Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings are designed solely for purposes of illustration and not as a definition of the limits of the invention, for which reference should be made to the appended claims. It should be further understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and that, unless otherwise indicated, they are merely intended to conceptually illustrate the structures and procedures described herein.
Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments, in which:
a-2g are perspective partial views of the swing leaf actuator of
a-4b show the swing leaf actuator of
a-6b are a door closer provided with an output shaft arrangement according to a third embodiment of the invention;
a and 12b are a device for inserting, respectively displacing the inventive output shaft along its axis of rotation according to a second embodiment of the invention;
The drive portion 30 comprises a motor 31 with an output shaft 32 exiting on both sides by way of example. Via the output shaft 32 and via a gear 33, shown in
The connecting component 19, located there behind and extending to the right side, is slid onto the housing 3 preferably in a latching and/or clamping manner, and serves for the connection, respectively reception of energy lines and/or data lines run to the outside. At both ends, the output shaft 8 has preferably a connecting portion 9, which in this case is configured by an external square. The closer portion 50 comprises a closer spring 51 shown in
a shows the drive portion 30 and the closer portion 50, but not the housing half 4. In this case, the output shaft 32 of the motor 31 of the drive portion 30, exiting on both longitudinal ends is particularly well visible. A worm wheel 34, as a component of the aforementioned gear 33, is disposed at the right end of the output shaft 32 in a torque-proof manner and meshes with a first cylindrical gear 35, which is accommodated to be freely rotatably supported via associated bearings 14 in the housing 3, respectively the housing halves 4, 5 thereof. Not visible in this view, another cylindrical gear 36, which meshes with the sketchily recognizable cylindrical gear 37, is located behind, in this case, on the same shaft on which the cylindrical gear 35 is placed. The cylindrical gear 37 in turn is disposed on a shaft in a torque-proof manner on which a further cylindrical gear 38 is disposed to be torque-proof. Said cylindrical gear 38 in turn meshes with the last cylindrical gear 39, which is disposed on the output shaft 8 in a torque-proof manner. In this view, the connecting portion 9 in the shape of an external square is exceptionally well visible. Also, in this case, the two shafts on the right side for the cylindrical gears 37 to 39 are accommodated to be freely rotatably supported in the housing halves 4, 5 of the housing 3 via respective bearings 14. The drive portion 30 serves the purpose of driving the output shaft 8 in a first direction of rotation.
The closer portion 50 comprises the closer spring 51, which, on the right side, bears against a flange 21. On the left side, the closer spring 51 bears against a spring abutment 56. An adjustment mechanism 52 for adjusting the pretension of the closer spring 51 comprises three bevel wheels 53 meshing with each other, wherein two of them are opposite each other and are exposed on different faces of the swing leaf actuator 1, as is particular visible in
Compared to
The combined view of
Compared to
d is an illustration similar to
e shows the arrangement of
The cam disc 62, as in particular illustrated in the hereafter described
The heart shape of the cam disc 62 is configured in that the external circumferential surface, which extends parallel to the axis of rotation of the cam disc 62 and serves as the running surface for the pressure roller 61, reduces its distance to the axis of rotation, descending from the heart point 63. As the pressure roller 61 is pressed to the left side in
f shows the output shaft 8 in enlarged details. As indicated above, in the illustrated example, the output shaft 8 has an external toothing 10, the teeth 11 thereof and the tooth spaces 12 extending along the axis of rotation of the output shaft 8. In order to prevent the output shaft 32 from moving too far into the here non-illustrated housing 3, preferably all teeth 11 preferably have a respective groove-shaped recess 13 at both ends. The recesses 13 extend essentially perpendicularly to the axis of rotation of the output shaft 8 and have preferably identical distances to the respective next frontal end of the output shaft 8. As a result, a respective ring-shaped groove is created at the exterior circumference of the output shaft 8 into which a retaining ring can be inserted. This arrangement is very easy to realize and in addition very inexpensive. In particular, a retaining ring is easy to remove if the output shaft 8 is to be moved translationally. In addition the output shaft 8 has preferably at both ends a respective one or a single continuous internal thread portion 22. Said portion serves for screwing in the above-mentioned screw 15.
g shows the arrangement of the fully floating axle, respectively of the output shaft 8 in conjunction with the components illustrated in the previous Figures in an exploded view. The cam disc 62 has preferably an interior contour which is complementary to the exterior contour of the output shaft 8. As an alternative, only at certain locations the disc has teeth portions projecting to the inside that engage into some of the aforementioned tooth spaces 12, here not identified, of the output shaft 8. On the right side and the left side of the cam disc 62 two spacers 67 are disposed, which are preferably likewise provided with a corresponding female toothing for a positive engagement with the output shaft 8. The interior contours are namely configured to likewise reach a positive rotational engagement with the output shaft 8. Both spacers 67 have the function of creating a distance between the cam disc 62 and the cylindrical gear 39, respectively the right spacer 70, which guarantees free movement of the respective non-illustrated cam plate half 58, 59 past the illustrated arrangement, in this case. Another spacer 70 is thus adjoining the spacer 67. The spacer 70 has the function of filling the distance between the adjoining spacer 67 and the bearing 14, disposed on the right side in this case and likewise provided with an internal toothing. As an alternative, said two spacers 67, 70 directly adjoining each other are configured to be integral. Again as an alternative, the respective spacer 67, 70 may be likewise configured integrally with the bearing 14, respectively with the cam disc 62. Separating the two spacers 67, 70 from each other has the advantage of being able to utilize standardized spacers 67. This circumstance allows in particular for the possibility of utilizing shared components for the above described guidance of the cam plate halves 58, 59, in this case, even though the distance which exists between the cam disc 62 and the cylindrical gear 39 is different from the one between the cam disc 62 and the right bearing 14.
Said bearing 14 adjoins the right side of the spacer 70 such that the output shaft 8 is accommodated to be freely rotatable in the non-illustrated housing 3.
The aforementioned cylindrical gear 39 adjoins the left side of the left spacer 67. Again a second bearing 14 is disposed on the left side of the cylindrical gear 39, which in the illustrated example, does not have an interior contour complementary to the output shaft 8, but is instead preferably smooth on the inside. In other words, the output shaft 8 is able to slide through the bearing 14. Obviously it is possible to configure the left bearing 14 like the right bearing 14. By this arrangement, the output shaft 8 is accommodated to be rotatable and translationally movable at any time in the swing leaf actuator 1. In order to cover the output shaft 8 to the outside, it has the above described one or more internal thread portions 22 into which a respective screw 15 is screwed. In the illustrated example the screws 15 are countersunk screws, which immobilize a respective cover part 16 at the output shaft 8.
As an alternative, the countersunk screw 15 and the associated cover part 16 are configured integrally. In this case, a hexagon screw for example would be a good choice.
In addition the internal thread portions 22 are visible. They are preferably configured in that they define a maximum length of thread engagement of the respective screw 15. In this illustration, the function of the spacer 70 becomes obvious. The bearings 14 both serve as the freely rotatable support bearing of the output shaft 8 in the housing 3 and the support of the components 39, 62, and 67 disposed between the bearings 14 and on the output shaft 8. In other words, the bearings 14 define the maximum construction height for the components 39, 62, and 67 to be accommodated on the output shaft 8. The cam plate halves 58, 59 are guided along the spacers 67, as described above, in this case into the plane of the drawing. The freely rotatable cam disc 62 is located between the cam plate halves 58, 59. In addition, the cam disc 62 preferably serves to guide the cam plate halves 58, 59 along the cam disc 62, namely forms a type of lateral guidance for the cam plate halves 58, 59. The cylindrical gear 39 is disposed below the cam plate half 58, i.e. at the side facing away from the cam disc 62. On the side opposite to the cam disc 62, the cylindrical gear 39 is supported in this case at the lower bearing 14. A hollow space exists to the top side between the upper spacer 67 and the upper bearing 14. In order to avoid now that the spacer 67 has to fill the relatively large interspace and fulfill the supporting function with regard to the cam plate half 59, the above mentioned additional spacer 70 is provided. The spacer 70 is configured in that it leans against both the upper bearing 14 and against the upper spacer 67. The upper spacer 67 can thereby reliably be prevented from moving in the direction of the upper bearing 14.
A recess, which by way of example is filled with lubricant 17, is provided in the output shaft 8 between the internal thread portions 22 and preferably interconnects the two. When connecting an arm assembly 80 or the like, the lubricant 17 reduces friction losses and therefore potential wear.
a shows the swing leaf actuator 1 in conjunction with an arm assembly 80. In other words, the lower screw 15 including associated cover part 16 of
The spring 82 is preferably configured as a compression spring, and may be configured differently. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring is formed by two disc springs. Alternative shapes are for example coil springs, annular springs, evolute or volute springs, or pot-shaped springs. In the event vibrations or the like entail turning the screw 83 to a certain degree in the unscrewing direction, the screw 83 does not immediately lose its tightening function. Initially the spring 82 relaxes such that the thread of the screw 83 is still pressed against the corresponding internal thread portion 22 in longitudinal extension of the screw 83 and therefore the non-positive engagement between the screw 83 and the output shaft 8 is retained. As a result, the screw 83 continues to be able to immobilize the assembly arm respectively the pivot arm 81 and the extension piece 85 securely at the output shaft 8. Another advantage of this arrangement resides in the fact that the spring 82 presses the pivot arm 81 against the attachment part 84, respectively said two components 81, 84 against the extension piece 85 and therefore said three components 81, 84, 85 against the output shaft 8 and maintains their mutual operative connection for so long as its pretension is sufficient. In other words, on account of its pretension, the spring 82 already guarantees mutual engagement of the components 8, 81, 84, 85.
In the illustrated example, the extension piece 85 is preferably configured to be two pieces. It comprises an exterior bushing 87 with an interior bushing 88 received therein and is translationally movable along the longitudinal extension with regard to the exterior bushing. In this case, the exterior bushing 87 comprises, at least at its end facing the output shaft 8, an interior contour which is essentially complementary to the exterior contour of the output shaft 8, such that both components 8, 87, by positive engagement are disposed to be torque-proof with regard to each other. Accordingly, at its end facing the pivot arm 81, the interior bushing 88 has an exterior contour, which is essentially complementary to the interior contour of the attachment part 84.
In addition, the bushings 87, 88 may be likewise in mutual positive engagement, linked to the advantage that the bushings 87, 88 cannot rotate opposite each other, and in the extreme case they will be able to effect a torque transmission from the pivot arm 81 onto the output shaft 8 passing via the attachment part 84.
b shows the swing leaf actuator 1 of
As an alternative, the two variants shown in
As can be seen in
Even though, compared to the state-of-the-art, an output shaft 8 can be configured shorter, this will still allow for the output shaft 8 to protrude far enough out in the direction of the operative connection such that in this case the extension piece 85 can be reliably brought into an operative engagement with the output shaft 8 and can be retained therein. The reason for that is as follows: In the illustrated pivot arm connection, when opening or closing the swing leaf, it might occur that the pivot arm 81, except for its rotating position, tends to change its other orientation with regard to the output shaft 8. The change may be that, for example on account of a not perfectly parallel alignment of a swing leaf upper edge with regard to the longitudinal extension of the swing leaf actuator 1, the pivot arm 81 is urged, from its parallel alignment with regard to the swing leaf actuator 1, into an acute alignment with regard to the operator. In other words, the pivot arm 81 threatens to “tilt off” with regard to the output shaft 8. Thus, a torque acts upon the pivot arm 81 about an axis, which does not extend parallel with regard to the axis of rotation of the output shaft 8, for example vertically thereto. In this case, there is the risk with the traditional square solution that the pivot arm 81 disconnects from the output shaft 8.
If the output shaft 8 projects sufficiently, the connecting portion 9 thereof may be configured higher in this case than it would be possible in the state-of-the-art on account of the desired height dimensions of the swing leaf actuator 1. Therefore, the surface is enlarged with which the output shaft 8, in this case with the extension piece 85, is able to be preferably also brought into a non-positive operative engagement, which circumstance increases the safety level for the torque transmission between the output shaft 8 and the extension piece 85, respectively the pivot arm 81, or guarantees said transmission at a higher safety level. In other words, the active surface of the output shaft 8 possibly serving as the press surface, can be preferably enlarged.
As an alternative,
According to
In particular according to
The above described swing leaf actuators 1 allow for relatively simple methods to provide the respective swing leaf actuator 1 with an output shaft 8, and, if required, to operatively connect the former to a swing leaf, respectively to an interposed gear.
The output shaft 8 is now pushed into the thus arranged components. In this case, in a step S3, it is verified whether or not the output shaft 8 still needs to be inserted into more components. If this is the case (YES branch following step S3), the output shaft 8 (including the already disposed components on the shaft in a torque-proof manner) is rotated, if required, in a following step S4 until the shaft can be inserted into the next component without any problem and can therefore be aligned with regard to said next component. Thereupon, the output shaft 8 is inserted into said next component in a following step S5. Thereafter, the method returns to step S3. If all the components are disposed on the output shaft in a torque-proof manner (NO branch following step S3), mounting the output shaft 8 is complete and mounting is terminated in a last step S6. This step may comprise for example screwing a screw 15 with cover part 16 into the output shaft 8.
In case of a cam-based swing leaf actuator 1, the method may be modified as illustrated in
According to a mounting method according to a second embodiment of the invention shown in
According to
As explained above, the screws 15 and cover parts 16 serve the purpose of visually covering the output shaft 8. It may, however, be intended the cover parts 16 hold the output shaft 8 in its mounting position. If for example a pivot arm 81 is to be affixed after that, the opposite cover part 16 is exchanged for another, possibly flatter cover part. As a result, the other end of the output shaft 8, which is to be operatively connected to the pivot arm 81, can be moved out of the housing 3 to a degree required for the operative connection.
The mounting device 90 comprises a threaded rod 91, which, in this case, is preferably screwed up to the abutment into the lower end of the output shaft 8, which is partly illustrated in a section and partly in a cut-away view. The threaded rod 91 is provided with a guide, which, in the illustrated example, has the shape of a groove 92 extending along the longitudinal extension of the threaded rod 91.
The mounting device 90 furthermore comprises a supporting element 93, in this case in the shape of a disc-like part, which, with regard to the door closer 1, is disposed in such a way that it is blocked against rotation in a first direction. In the illustrated example, this action is accomplished by serrated-shaped projections 94, which in this case protrude from the side facing the housing 3, and the points of the projections are oriented in the aforementioned first direction. Advantageously, the housing 3 has corresponding recesses 23, for example likewise serrated, the “points” thereof being oriented in the same first direction. The recesses 23 may be likewise configured as a rectangle. As a result, it is possible to insert the supporting element 93 with its projections 94 into the recesses 23, respectively to turn the element, until the projections are supported at the recesses 23 in the first direction.
By its guiding device 92, the threaded rod 91 is accommodated in the supporting element 93 to be translationally guided towards the housing 3 and away from the housing.
From the side facing away from the housing 3, a screw element, in this case in the shape of a hexagon nut 95, is screwed onto the threaded rod 91. If the screw 95 is turned in said first direction, the threaded rod 91 cannot rotate along on account of the longitudinal guide in the supporting element 93 and the blocked rotation of the supporting element 93 in this direction with regard to the housing 3. Instead, the nut 95 continues to be screwed further onto the threaded rod 91. If the nut 95 is in the position shown in
In the framework of the aforementioned methods, the following will happen: Provided both bearings 14 have an internal toothing, the output shaft 8 is initially moved as far into the housing 3 as reaching a point a bit above the top side of the upper bearing 14. If the teeth of the output shaft 8 and of the upper bearing 14 are not aligned such that they can be pushed into each other, in this case, the nut 95 can be turned to the left. Therefore, due to the longitudinal guide of the threaded rod 91 in the supporting element 93, the latter can be rotated along to the left. As a result, the output shaft 8 is rotated and the external toothing thereof changes its relative position with regard to the internal toothing of the upper bearing 14. If the teeth of the upper bearing 14 and of the output shaft 8 are aligned to each other such as to be able to push the output shaft 8 in, with some force the threaded rod 91 is likewise pulled downwards and the nut 95 is turned back to the right to the position shown in
Aligning the teeth of the components 14, 67, 39, 67, 14 with regard to the output shaft 8 may be omitted, if, during installation, the components are positioned for example by color markings provided on them and on the rest of the swing leaf actuator 1, for example on the housing 3, such that they are correspondingly pre-positioned with regard to the output shaft 8. Then, after having placed the supporting element 93, just the nut 95 needs to be turned until the output shaft 8 has penetrated the lower bearing 14.
In this case, the recesses 23 are advantageously likewise configured on the upper side of the housing 3. This circumstance allows for placing the supporting element 93 also on this side, such that the output shaft 8 can be likewise installed from the bottom.
a and 12b shows a mounting device 90 according to a second embodiment of the invention.
Preferably, likewise on the side facing away from the supporting element 93, the housing 3 has an internal thread portion 24. Therefore, it is possible to move the output shaft 8 for example likewise in the opposite direction, namely to the top in
If the nut 95 is rotated to the left, the supporting element 93 is entrained. As a result, the relative position of the output shaft 8 can be aligned with regard to components 14, 67, 39, which are still freely rotatable and are to be mounted in a torque-proof manner.
Initially the output shaft 8 is pushed into the components 14, 39, 67, prior to or after they have been already inserted into the swing leaf actuator 1, respectively into the housing 3 thereof. In the second case, this is advantageously realized by clamping all components 14, 39, 67 between the bearings 14 in that all components 14, 39, 67 are for example pressed against each other by a clamp or the like.
As an alternative, and according to
The assembly axle 97 may have a circular cross-section. In other words, the components 14, 39, 67 do not need to be disposed in a torque-proof manner. This circumstance is advantageous in that, with the assembly axle 97 being inserted, the components 14, 39, and 67 can be rotated with regard to the latter and to each other.
It is furthermore preferred the assembly axle 97 does not have an internal thread, but a hollow space in the shape of a through-opening 101, through which the threaded rod 91 can pass.
During assembly, initially all components 14, 39, 67 are pushed onto the assembly axle 97. The thus configured module is inserted into the housing 3 of the swing leaf actuator 1. Now, the assembly axle 97 still needs to be replaced by the output shaft 8. For this purpose, the supporting element 93 is sleeve-like with a bottom 98 facing the nut 95.
The supporting element 93, again illustrated in a section, is hollow inside in the direction of the assembly axle 97 namely has a hollow inner space 99 pointing in the direction of the assembly axle 97. Thus, with the open end, the element bears against the housing 3 of the swing leaf actuator 1. The bottom 98 is preferably configured like the supporting element 93 illustrated in
During assembly, the threaded rod 91 is initially screwed into the output shaft 8 while passing through the assembly axle 97. If the assembly axle 97 does not have the internal thread, but only a hollow inner space 101, which in cross-section is large enough to accommodate the threaded rod 91, the latter does not have to be screwed through the assembly axle 97, but can be simply pushed through the axle 97.
Prior to or afterwards, the supporting element 93 is placed upon the housing 3, respectively the output shaft 8 in such a way that the bottom 98 thereof is located at the end facing away from the swing leaf actuator 1, or distal end of the supporting element 93. Thereupon, the nut 95 is screwed so far onto the end of the threaded rod 91 protruding from the supporting element 93 until the supporting element 93 comes to rest against the housing 3. Thereupon, retracting the output shaft 8 into the housing 3 is realized and the components 14, 39 and 67 follow in the aforementioned manner by continuing to turn the nut 95. In this case, the output shaft 8 gradually pushes the assembly axle 97 out of the components 14, 39 and 67 and into the hollow space 99 of the supporting element 93. In the event the torque-proof arrangement of the components 14, 39, 67 with regard to the assembly axle 97 is not given, the output shaft 8 together with the threaded rod 91 can be freely rotated and thus adjusted with regard to the respective following component 14, 39, and 67 which is to be accommodated in a torque-proof manner.
Once the output shaft 8 is completely assembled, i.e. inserted into all the components 14, 39 and 67, as illustrated in
Now, the threaded rod 91 needs to be screwed in the direction of the supporting element 93 and out of the output shaft 8. Thereupon, the threaded rod 91, the supporting element 93 and the assembly axle 97, which is located therein, can be simply removed and the swing leaf actuator 1 is ready for use.
The anti-rotation protection of the supporting element 93 with regard to the swing leaf actuator 1 is realized by the screw 95 by way of example. In other words, the supporting element 93 is shaped in that, at one point, it comes to rest against the nut 95 and cannot be rotated any further.
In
If the output shaft 8, as illustrated in
The arrangements, respectively mounting devices illustrated in
In addition, they will allow for subsequent exchange of an already installed output shaft 8 for another output shaft, if the installed output shaft 8 needs to be replaced for example at the end of its lifespan or has become distorted under the action of forces, or has become unsuitable.
In the swing leaf actuators 1 illustrated in
In the swing leaf actuators 1 illustrated in the
According to that, the threaded rod 91 is pushed through the supporting element 93 placed upon the housing 3. Furthermore, the rod is pushed through, respectively screwed into the mounted output shaft 8. The new output shaft to be inserted is preferably disposed, respectively placed at or onto the end of the output shaft 8 facing away from the supporting element 93.
If the threaded rod 91 already protrudes from the end of the mounted output shaft 8 facing the new output shaft, the new output shaft 8 is screwed onto the threaded rod 91. Otherwise, the threaded rod 91 can be screwed into the new output shaft. In both scenarios, an arrangement is created similar to
As a result, when continuing to screw the nut 95, respectively the screw portion 100, the new output shaft is gradually pulled, respectively screwed into the components 14, 39 and 67, and simultaneously the mounted output shaft 8 is urged, respectively moved in the direction of the inner space 99 of the supporting element 93. In other words, mounting the new output shaft is realized in the same way as mounting the output shaft 8 while utilizing the assembly axle 97.
In this case, an alignment device in the shape of a bushing can be provided, which, on the inside, is configured complementary to the exterior contour of the output shaft 8. This bushing is now placed onto the end of the installed output shaft 8 facing away from the supporting element 93. The new output shaft is inserted into the bushing. As a result, both output shafts 8 are already aligned with regard to each other in such a way that the new output shaft 8 can be simply moved into the components 14, 39 and 67. The installation is thereby extremely simplified.
In addition to the toothing 10, the end of the output shaft 8 may respectively have a specially configured connecting portion 9, for example in the shape of a square.
Instead of the toothing 10, the output shaft 8 may be configured differently for the positive engagement with the components 14, 39, 62, 67, 70, which are to be disposed thereon in a torque-proof manner. The shaft may have any possible non-circular cross-section. If the cross-section is circular, the axis of rotation intersects the cross-sectional surface off-center. The respective component, which is to be disposed in a torque-proof manner, therefore has such an exterior contour that finally the desired rotation of the respective components 14, 39, 62, 67, and 70 is achieved.
The external toothing, in particular visible in
The invention is not limited to the above embodiments.
Even if the invention has been mainly described in conjunction with a swing leaf actuator based on a toothed rack, it can be equally applied to any swing leaf actuator having a rotating output shaft.
Parts of the illustrated mounting devices 90 may be combined with each other and/or exchanged for each other. It is for example possible to provide the assembly axle 97 in all mounting devices; however, it may be omitted in all of them. The abutments 94, 23; 24 and 96 can be exchanged for each other or else they may be combined with each other. In addition, they may be provided in a way that rotating the supporting element 93 is limited likewise in the direction of rotation opposite to the one of the previous description. Apart from that, they may be configured in any known manner, which limits the rotation of the supporting element 93 at least in the direction the output shaft 8 is pulled in.
Instead of a screwing action, the threaded rod 91 can be clamped or pressure bonded to the output shaft 8.
Instead of a non-round configuration of the supporting element 93 for the purpose of delimiting the above described rotation, the supporting element 93 may have a through-opening, through which the associated screw 95 passes. Furthermore, preferably the through-opening has a cross-sectional shape of an oblong hole extending along a line of a circle, thus being arc-shaped. The center of a circle, which is thus defined by the central line of the oblong hole, corresponds to the center of rotation of the supporting element 93. As a result, the supporting element 93 can be freely rotated even with the screw 95 being inserted. The area of rotation of the supporting element 93 is limited by the oblong hole itself in conjunction with the screw 95, which passes through it.
As an alternative or in addition, the screws 95 may be replaced by bolts, which for example are stationary or inserted into the housing 3 for example by clamping, or else by headless screws.
In case of the headless screw, the latter may be screwed in already when mounting and is already present when (un)installing the output shaft 8. In addition the at least one internal thread portion 24, provided for this purpose, may be configured in that the associated headless screw can be countersunk. In other words, the screw can be screwed in as far as to terminate flush with the housing 3 on the outside or even to be deeper. For the purpose of (un)installing the output shaft 8, the respective headless screw is simply unscrewed somewhat from the housing 3.
As a result, the invention provides a very simple and effective solution to configure the output shaft 8 of a swing leaf actuator 1 independently from the other drive portions 30, 50 of a drive mechanism of the swing leaf actuator 1. Therefore, it is in particular possible to avoid expensive and complicated assembly steps, such as welding and the like, and to provide furthermore the advantage of being able to optimize the output shaft 8 with regard to its proper function, namely transmitting torques.
Thus, while there have shown and described and pointed out fundamental novel features of the invention as applied to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be understood that various omissions and substitutions and changes in the form and details of the devices illustrated, and in their operation, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, it is expressly intended that all combinations of those elements and/or method steps which perform substantially the same function in substantially the same way to achieve the same results are within the scope of the invention. Moreover, it should be recognized that structures and/or elements and/or method steps shown and/or described in connection with any disclosed form or embodiment of the invention may be incorporated in any other disclosed or described or suggested form or embodiment as a general matter of design choice. It is the intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by the scope of the claims appended hereto.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 2011 054 079.2 | Sep 2011 | DE | national |
