Turnbuckle for Tensioning Frame Formwork Elements

Description

The present application claims the priority of German patent application 10 2022 107 429.3, the content of which is fully incorporated herein by reference thereto.

The invention relates to a turnbuckle for tensioning frame formwork elements according to the preamble of claim 1.

A generic frame turnbuckle is known from WO 2005/007997 A1.

Frame formwork elements are used to erect boundaries for bodies to be cast, in particular concrete bodies such as building parts. In order to obtain castable boundaries, a plurality of frame formwork elements must generally be fixedly connected or tensioned with one another. Turnbuckles that are also known as alignment couplers or assembly locks are used to tension the frame formwork elements.

In general, turnbuckles are used to connect adjoining frame formwork elements to one another in a flush, aligned and tight manner. Turnbuckles are used in particular to connect or tension two adjoining frame formwork elements to one another, wherein inner corners, outer corners, articulated corners and face formwork can also be connected by means of the turnbuckles.

The turnbuckles can also be used to connect a frame formwork element to an adjoining compensating element. Compensating elements are used to provide length compensation and are typically arranged between two conventional frame formwork elements. The compensating elements are usually made of wood, steel or aluminum.

Conventional frame formwork elements have a circumferential frame having at least two vertical frame elements and two horizontal frame elements as well as horizontal struts for stabilizing the frame. The struts generally extend horizontally between the two vertical frame elements of the frame. In addition, vertical struts can also be provided to further stabilize the frame. Compensating elements can have a different structure, but a circumferential frame is generally also provided in this case.

A formlining is or can be attached to the frame in a known manner.

Compensating elements also constitute frame formwork elements in the context of the present invention.

Turnbuckles are generally arranged in the region of the intersections of horizontally extending struts and vertically extending frame elements of the frame. In each case, one clamping jaw of the turnbuckle engages around a portion of a vertically extending frame element of two frame formwork elements to be connected. By means of a wedge, the two clamping jaws and thus the frame formwork elements are then tensioned against one another, i.e. the clamping jaws are moved towards one another.

The turnbuckle generally has a crossmember and a first clamping jaw which is typically connected immovably to the crossmember. Furthermore, the turnbuckle has a second clamping jaw, wherein the second clamping jaw can be shifted in a bracing direction along the longitudinal axis of the crossmember towards the first clamping jaw in order to tension the frame formwork elements.

The clamping jaws preferably each have two claws, wherein the two claws of a clamping jaw have a distance from one another such that a horizontally extending strut can be accommodated between the two claws.

Such clamping jaws are also referred to as lugs.

In the turnbuckles known from the prior art, it is usually provided that the direction of translation of the wedge when it is driven into the turnbuckle during bracing (hereinafter also referred to as the wedge-driving direction) or when releasing the wedge and the clamping direction, i.e. the movement of the second clamping device along the crossmember, are at right angles to one another. If two horizontally adjacent frame formwork elements are connected in a conventional manner to such a turnbuckle, i.e. tensioned horizontally, gravity acts fully on the wedge in such a way that it is pulled in the direction of greater tensioning. This has been found to be advantageous.

In order to tension boundary surfaces of two adjacent frame formwork elements which experience particularly large forces, for example in articulated corners or outer corners, several turnbuckles are used adjacent to one another. The turnbuckles are then typically arranged on a straight line, e.g. one below the other, i.e. vertically offset from one another, with parallel tensioning movements of the clamping jaws in each case.

However, this arrangement can cause the wedges of the individual turnbuckles to obstruct one another. Furthermore, care must be taken to maintain a sufficient distance between the wedge ends, which are driven in and released by means of hammers, and any kind of obstruction so that said wedges may be operated by means of a hammer without interference.

A further disadvantage of the aforementioned turnbuckles is that they generally cannot be mounted on the lowest strut, since there is not enough space there. The wedge requires space below the crossmember, into the toothed portion of which the wedge is to be driven, such that the wedge can project below the crossmember. After the wedge has been driven in, there must also still be enough space to be able to loosen the wedge again by hammer blows in the opposite direction.

An important requirement for turnbuckles further consists in that they should be suitable for connecting frame formwork elements whose frames have different thicknesses, for example depending on whether outer corners, articulated corners or the like are to be connected. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the turnbuckle has a quick adjustment feature so that the distance between the two clamping jaws of the turnbuckle can be quickly and easily set to the desired dimension, the turnbuckle attached and then the frame formwork elements tensioned. The turnbuckles should thus have a suitable span that can be adjusted quickly. At the same time, however, it is also required that large forces can be applied briefly, so that the turnbuckle, when attached to two frame formwork elements, can reliably fix or tension them. The aforementioned turnbuckles, which are tensioned with a combination of hammer and wedge, have proven to be suitable for this purpose.

Turnbuckles that can be operated without striking aids are also known from the prior art. In this case, length adjustment by means of a spindle is known, but this does not allow quick adjustment.

In practice, turnbuckles have become established in which the two clamping jaws, as described above, can be moved towards one another and tensioned together by means of a wedge driven in by a striking tool. Such turnbuckles have become established since these turnbuckles on the one hand ensure a flush, aligned and tight connection between frame formwork elements, and on the other hand such turnbuckles enable quick adjustment in order to adjust the turnbuckles to different spans between the frames of the frame formwork elements to be connected.

Such a turnbuckle is disclosed in the generic document. The generic document states that the direction with which the wedge is driven into the turnbuckle and the bracing direction form an angle α<90° to improve operation of the wedge. Typically, however, the angle in such turnbuckles is α=90°.

The object of the present invention is that of improving the previously known prior art, in particular to provide a turnbuckle for bracing frame formwork elements, which can be released quickly and easily even in installation situations that are difficult to access.

This object is achieved by the features of claim 1.

The turnbuckle according to the invention for bracing frame formwork elements comprises a first clamping device having a crossmember and a first clamping jaw. The crossmember has a toothed portion comprising a row of track teeth arranged one behind the other and extending in parallel with one another. Furthermore, a second clamping device comprising a second clamping jaw and a guide device is provided. The second clamping device can move in a bracing direction along the crossmember toward the first clamping jaw. The turnbuckle further comprises a wedge which, guided by the guide device, can move along a wedge-driving direction and can be brought into engagement with at least one of the track teeth in order to fix the two clamping devices in a bracing position.

According to the invention, it is provided that the guide devices have a cross brace that can move transversely to the wedge-driving direction between an unlocking position and a locking position. The cross brace is designed and arranged such that, in the locking position, the cross brace limits a stroke of the wedge in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion such that the wedge can be brought into engagement with the at least one track tooth in the bracing position, and wherein the cross brace enables a larger stroke of the wedge in the unlocking position.

Since the turnbuckle according to the invention has a cross brace, the movement of which between an unlocking position and a locking position can influence a stroke performable by the wedge in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion, when the turnbuckle according to the invention is bracing two frame formwork elements with one another, i.e. is in the bracing position, it can be released in a simple manner even if the turnbuckle is mounted in a constrained position in which the wedge cannot be released again by hammer blows counter to the wedge-driving direction. Such a constrained position can occur, for example, in frame formwork elements where the turnbuckle is fixed to a lower horizontal strut or when a plurality of turnbuckles are mounted one above the other in a straight line with little spacing. A constrained position in which the wedge cannot be released again by hammer blows opposite the wedge-driving direction or cannot be easily released again by hammer blows opposite the wedge-driving direction can also arise in particular in frame formwork elements which form foundation formwork, or in frame formwork elements which have only a small vertical height, for example frame formwork elements which are used to construct foundations, e.g. train paths.

The turnbuckle according to the invention is particularly suitable for frame formwork elements that are used to produce wall formwork.

The solution according to the invention makes it possible not to have to actuate the wedge in order to re-release the turnbuckle from the bracing position. Release is easy using the cross brace. This allows the wedge to fall out of the bracing position or be removed without requiring any expenditure of force.

The turnbuckle according to the invention, in particular also the cross brace, can be simply and quickly operated to release the two clamping devices when they are fixed with respect to one another in a bracing position. No additional tool is required to operate the cross brace. Manual operation or, if necessary, operation using the available tool, in particular a hammer, is sufficient to move the cross brace, in particular to move it from a locking position to an unlocking position.

In order to fix the clamping device in a bracing position, it can be provided that the cross brace is first moved into the locking position in such a way that the cross brace limits a stroke of the wedge in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion such that the wedge can be brought into engagement with the at least one, preferably two, track teeth in the bracing position. For this purpose, the wedge can be driven into the toothed portion in a known manner, preferably using a hammer. The wedge is moved in the wedge-driving direction. Operation of the turnbuckle, in particular to fix the two clamping devices or the two clamping jaws with respect to one another in a bracing position by means of the wedge, can be carried out in a known manner. In order to release the fixation of the two clamping devices from the bracing position, it can then be provided that the wedge is released again from the toothed portion in the opposite direction, i.e. opposite to the wedge-driving direction, by hammer blows. Alternatively, particularly when there is a constrained position, the clamping device can, according to the invention, also be released from the bracing position by moving the cross brace from its locking position in which it limits the stroke of the wedge in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion such that the wedge engages with at least one of the track teeth in the bracing position, into an unlocking position in which the cross brace enables a greater stroke of the wedge. Since the cross brace allows for a greater stroke of the wedge in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion, i.e. because the wedge can move further away from the toothed portion in an orthogonal direction, the toothed engagement between the wedge and the track tooth or the particular track teeth of the toothed portion is at least loosened. The wedge can thus be moved out of the toothed portion without the need for hammer blows or a greater amount of effort.

The stroke of the wedge in a direction orthogonal to the toothed engagement is also orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the wedge or to the wedge-driving direction.

In the unlocking position, it is advantageous for the cross brace to allow a stroke of the wedge in such a way that engagement of the wedge in the track teeth is at least reduced in the bracing position.

To release the turnbuckle, it can be sufficient for the cross brace to at least reduce the engagement of the wedge in the track teeth in the unlocking position. This can, for example, mean that the wedge can be loosened without the need for hammer blows.

It is advantageous if the cross brace increases the stroke of the wedge in the unlocking position such that the wedge can be disengaged from the track teeth in the bracing position.

One design of the cross brace whereby, in the unlocking position, the stroke of the wedge is increased to such an extent that the wedge does not engage with the track teeth in the bracing position has proven to be particularly suitable. This allows the fixation of the clamping devices to be released even if the wedge is not moved against the driving-in movement or in the opposite direction to the wedge-driving direction.

The turnbuckle according to the invention thus makes it possible to release the fixation of the turnbuckle in a position in which it tensions two frame formwork elements with one another in two different ways, on the one hand by axially moving the wedge counter to the wedge-driving direction by means of hammer blows and, on the other hand, by moving or passing the cross brace from a locking position to an unlocking position.

It is advantageous if the cross brace interacts with the wedge in such a way that, depending on the position of the cross brace, the cross brace acts on the wedge such that a stroke of the wedge is mechanically limited, preferably by direct contact between the wedge and the cross brace or by means of an intermediate element or a plurality of intermediate elements, for example a wedge contact rail (described in more detail below).

It is advantageous if the wedge limits a stroke of the wedge in the locking position in such a way that, when it is driven into the toothed portion up to the bracing position, the wedge cannot perform a stroke, i.e. the stroke is zero in the bracing position. By moving the cross brace from its locking position to the unlocking position, the stroke is increased, i.e. a stroke is set that is greater than the stroke that the wedge can assume when the cross brace is in the locking position.

It may be provided that the stroke of the wedge which it can assume corresponds to a value which is greater than 10% of amount of the tooth depth of the track teeth when the cross brace is in the unlocking position. The tooth depth is understood to mean the distance between the tip of the track teeth and the valley of the track teeth, or the head of a track tooth and the foot of a track tooth. More preferably, the stroke is at least 20%, even more preferably at least 30%, in particular at least 50%, of the tooth depth. Very particularly, it can be suitable if the stroke is the same size, in particular larger, than the teeth depth such that the teeth of the wedge, which are in engagement with at least one of the track teeth, can be completely disengaged from the track teeth when the wedge is driven into the bracing position.

It is advantageous if the stroke that the wedge can assume is less than twice the tooth depth, preferably less than 150%, in particular less than 120%, of the tooth depth when the cross brace is in the unlocking position.

The stroke of the wedge is understood to mean the movement of the wedge orthogonally to the toothed portion in a direction leading away from the toothed portion. If the stroke is zero, which is preferably the case when the wedge is driven into a bracing position such that the two clamping devices are fixed with respect to one another, the wedge is not movable in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion.

It is advantageous if the cross brace can move parallel to the bracing direction between an unlocking position and a locking position.

Movement of the cross brace parallel to the bracing direction has proven to be particularly suitable for influencing, by the movement of the cross brace, a stroke which the wedge can perform in a direction orthogonal to the bracing portion.

It is advantageous if the guide device has a housing part with at least two guide recesses which are arranged at a distance from one another in the wedge-driving direction and through which the wedge is passed, wherein the guide recesses guide the wedge in the wedge-driving direction, and wherein the cross brace is arranged on the housing part so as to be movable transversely to the wedge-driving direction.

Since the guide device has a housing part with at least two guide recesses through which the wedge is passed, the wedge can be moved in a particularly advantageous manner in the wedge-driving direction, in particular brought or driven into a bracing position, such that the wedge or the teeth of the wedge is/are brought into engagement with one of the track teeth in such a way that the two clamping devices or the two clamping jaws are fixed with respect to one another. It has proven to be particularly suitable in this regard if the cross brace is moveably arranged on the housing part transversely to the wedge-driving direction. Such an arrangement can be realized in a particularly stable and reliable manner. This is particularly advantageous for robust use and with regard to the requirements on construction sites.

According to the invention, it can be provided that the housing part and/or the cross brace have a U-shaped profile in cross section.

It has proven to be advantageous if the housing part and the cross brace have an at least approximately U-shaped profile in cross section.

It can be advantageous if the cross brace is fixed to the inside of the housing part.

It is also advantageous if the cross brace, which is preferably U-shaped in cross section, is arranged in the housing part, also preferably U-shaped in cross section, in such a way that the housing part and the cross brace are identically oriented, preferably in such a way that a longitudinal axis of the cross brace and a longitudinal axis of the housing part run transversely to the wedge-driving direction. The longitudinal axes extend along the bottom of the respective U-shaped profile from a front end to a rear end of the cross brace or the housing part such that the longitudinal axes extend centrally between the side walls of the U-shaped profile on the bottom.

The housing part and the guide device are preferably formed integrally with the second clamping device. The two side walls of the second clamping jaw are preferably integrally connected to a side wall of the U-shaped profile of the housing part and extend in a direction that faces away from the bottom of the U-shaped profile of the housing part. Alternatively, however, the second clamping jaw can also be connected to the guide device and the housing part in another way, in particular integrally or in a force-fit, for example welded or screwed.

It is advantageous if a wedge contact rail is movably arranged in the guide recesses such that the wedge contact rail can perform a lifting movement orthogonally to the toothed portion, wherein the wedge contact rail is arranged in the guide recesses on a side of the wedge facing away from the toothed portion such that a lower side of the wedge contact rail adjoins a top side of the wedge, and wherein the cross brace is arranged on the housing part in such a way that the cross brace adjoins an upper side of the wedge contact rail facing away from the wedge, and the cross brace limits the stroke of the wedge contact rail.

The use of a wedge contact rail has proven to be particularly suitable for providing good guidance for the wedge so that on the one hand, the wedge can be moved in the wedge-driving direction, i.e. it can be moved into the bracing position or returned from the bracing position by a counter-movement. For this purpose, it is provided that the wedge contact rail itself is movably arranged in the guide device such that the wedge contact rail can carry out a lifting movement (orthogonally to the toothed portion). The wedge contact rail is positioned in the guide recess in such a way that a lower side of the wedge contact rail is adjacent to a top side of the wedge. Furthermore, it is provided that the cross brace adjoins an upper side of the wedge contact rail facing away from the wedge such that the cross brace limits the stroke of the wedge contact rail and thus also the stroke of the wedge. Movement of the cross brace from an unlocking position to a locking position thus takes place relative to the wedge contact rail, in particular with contact, such that the wedge contact rail is moved closer to the toothed portion in the locking position. In the unlocking position, the cross brace of the wedge contact rail provides an increased stroke so that the wedge contact rail can be moved away from the toothed portion.

The wedge contact rail makes it possible for the two parts, each of which is movable along its longitudinal axis, specifically the wedge that moves in the wedge-driving direction and the cross brace which is moved transversely to the wedge-driving direction, do not directly mechanically act on the other part during their respective movements, but rather each movement is carried out with respect to the wedge contact rail which thus functions as an intermediate layer or intermediate element.

The wedge contact rail is preferably designed in one piece, but can also be composed of several pieces.

It is advantageous if the guide recesses have a shoulder against which the wedge contact rail rests when the cross brace is in the locking position. The lower side of the wedge guide rail rests against the shoulders of the guide recess. This limits a movement of the wedge contact rail in the direction of the toothed portion such that the wedge contact rail does not press the wedge too far into the track teeth or the toothed portion.

According to the invention, it can further be provided that the cross brace has, on its lower side facing the wedge, a control surface extending over at least a partial length of the cross brace, which surface limits the stroke of the wedge in the guide recesses to different values depending on the position of the cross brace.

It has proven to be particularly advantageous if the cross brace has a control surface extending over at least a partial length of the cross brace. The control surface preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the cross brace or in parallel with the movement of the cross brace in order to move it between the unlocking position and the locking position, i.e. transversely to the wedge-driving direction.

Preferably, the control surface extends over at least 50% of the length of the cross brace, particularly preferably over at least 70%, in particular over at least 80% and particularly preferably over at least 90% of the length of the cross brace.

Since the cross brace has a control surface on its lower side which limits the stroke of the wedge in the guide recesses to different values depending on the position of the cross brace, in particular such that, in the locking position when the wedge is driven into a bracing position, there is no stroke, whereas in the unlocking position of the cross brace, there is a stroke, by means of which the engagement of the wedge in the track teeth is reduced or released, the fixation between the two clamping devices can be released particularly easily or the cross brace can be brought particularly easily from an unlocking position to a locking position, and vice versa.

Control surfaces can be implemented on a lower side of the cross brace using known measures in a suitable manner, in particular by choosing a suitable inclination. It can be provided that the control surface acts directly on the wedge or via an intermediate element, in particular the wedge contact rail described above.

The horizontal movement of the cross brace can be configured in such a way that a region is provided in the locking position for compensating for tolerances and wear, for example of up to 10°. This can be achieved in particular by using a control surface that has a corresponding inclination.

According to the invention, it can be provided that the control surface of the cross brace can have at least a first portion which, when the cross brace is brought into contact with the upper side of the wedge contact rail or the upper side of the wedge in the locking position, limits a stroke of the wedge in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion such that the wedge can be brought into engagement with the track teeth, and wherein the control surface has a second portion which, when the cross brace is brought into contact with the upper side of the wedge contact rail or the upper side of the wedge in the unlocking position, allows a greater stroke of the wedge.

Designing the control surface with a first and a second portion has proven to be particularly suitable.

It can be provided that the portions, in particular the first portion, have an inclination, i.e. that the distance between the first portion of the control surface and the toothed portion of the crossmember changes over the course of the first portion. The second portion can also have an inclination, but is preferably designed without an inclination.

Designing the control surface in such a way that an inclination is provided in the first portion makes it possible to respond to wear of the toothed portion, the wedge, the wedge contact rail and/or the cross brace in such a way that the cross brace is moved further toward the locking position if wear has developed over the course of time. The locking position of the cross brace preferably provides that the wedge can be introduced into a bracing position in the toothed portion in the wedge-driving direction in such a way that there is no longer a stroke in the bracing position. It is therefore advantageous if the first portion of the control surface of the cross brace is designed such that the locking position can be suitably selected to be within the first portion.

According to the invention, it can further be provided that the control surface has a transition portion between the first portion and the second portion.

It has proven to be suitable if a transition portion is formed between the two portions of the control surface, which can be characterized in particular by the fact that it has a greater inclination than the first portion. This makes it possible to transition between the unlocking position and the locking position over a relatively short distance. This is particularly suitable if the first portion also has an inclination, and therefore, despite tolerances and wear, the cross brace can be brought into a position in which the wedge is brought into engagement with at least one of the track teeth of the toothed portion in such a way that there is no longer a stroke in the bracing position.

The cross brace has, preferably as described, a U-shaped profile in cross section. It is preferably provided that the control surface is formed on the lower sides or the free ends of the side walls of the U-shaped crosspiece. The lower sides of the side walls are identical.

It is advantageous if the cross brace is arranged on an inner side of the housing part of the guide device.

It has proven to be particularly suitable if the cross brace is arranged on an inner side of the housing part of the guide device, in particular if the housing part surrounds the cross brace in a U shape.

According to the invention, it can further be provided that the cross brace has at least one, preferably a plurality of, in particular two, slots, by means of which the cross brace is movably arranged on the housing part, preferably screwed, and wherein the slots limit a movement of the cross brace transversely to the wedge-driving direction.

It has proven to be particularly suitable if the cross brace has one, in particular two slots, by means of which and with the aid of suitable screws or rivets the cross brace is movably arranged on the housing part. The slots can limit the movement of the cross brace transversely to the wedge-driving direction. The slots thus extend transversely to the wedge-driving direction or extend along the longitudinal axis of the cross brace. The cross brace can therefore be mounted very advantageously and replaced if necessary. Furthermore, in conjunction with suitable fastening elements, two slots allow for a defined and robust movement of the cross brace transversely to the wedge-driving direction, i.e. from the unlocking position to the locking position, and vice versa.

According to the invention, it can further be provided that the wedge and/or the wedge contact rail are captively arranged in the guide recesses.

It has proven to be advantageous for handling purposes if the wedge is captively arranged in the guide recesses. For this purpose, the wedge can preferably have bends at both its ends that prevent the wedge from being pulled completely out of the guide recess. The bends are preferably selected such that an inner surface of the bend comes into contact with the housing part, in particular a housing part surrounding the guide recess, when the wedge is moved until it reaches the particular end position.

The wedge contact rail can have a design corresponding to the wedge. Preferably, an additional component is welded to the wedge contact rail, which extends plane-parallel to a surface of the guide recess or a side wall of the housing part and protrudes beyond the particular guide recess.

Preferably, the wedge is first inserted into the guide recesses which, if the wedge contact rail has not yet been inserted, provide sufficient space in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion for introducing the wedge. The wedge guide rail is then inserted into the guide recesses. The wedge contact rail can preferably already have a projection at one end such that, in a direction of movement along the longitudinal axis of the wedge contact rail, a positive fit is created with the housing part or an edge of the corresponding guide recess. A projection or end stop can then be attached to the other end of the wedge guide rail, preferably after the wedge guide rail has been inserted into the guide recesses, for example by riveting, welding or screwing. It is also possible to create an end stop by means of forming such that the wedge contact rail is received in the two guide recesses in a form-fit, preferably with as little play as possible with respect to any movement along its longitudinal axis, or such that any movement of the wedge contact rail along its longitudinal axis is largely prevented.

It is advantageous if the wedge contact rail has a contact surface on the lower side, which, together with a contact surface formed on the upper side of the wedge, forms a linear guide for guiding the wedge in the wedge-driving direction, wherein the two stop surfaces are preferably complementary.

It has proven to be particularly suitable if the wedge contact rail and the wedge form a linear guide such that the wedge is guided in a defined manner in the wedge-driving direction. The stop surfaces can preferably be complementary to one another, for example in such a way that one stop surface has grooves and the other stop surface has springs that mutually engage in each other. Depressions and/or projections can also be provided on the stop surfaces, which are designed in such a way that a linear guide is formed.

According to the invention, it can further be provided that the contact surface for the wedge formed on the lower side of the wedge contact rail has, when viewed in cross section, a depression, wherein the depression is preferably formed as a trapezoidal depression, as a triangular depression, as a depression with rounded edges, as a circular depression, as a rounded depression, or by grooves, and/or when viewed in cross section, the depression has a flat bottom from which side walls extend in the direction of the wedge, which side walls extend outward at an angle of 30° to 60°, preferably 45°, to the bottom.

It has proven to be particularly suitable to form a linear guide for the wedge if the wedge contact rail has a depression, preferably a trapezoidal depression, when viewed in cross section. The trapezoidal depression is preferably designed such that side walls extend from the bottom of the trapezoidal depression in the direction of the wedge and extend outward at an angle of 30° to 60°, preferably 45°+/−5°, to the bottom, such that the trapezoidal depression opens in the direction of the wedge, starting from the bottom. Such a shape has proven to be particularly suitable for guiding the wedge compared to a shape in which the side walls are at an angle of 90° to the bottom of the depression. Preferably, the wedge is designed such that it has side walls which rest against the side walls of the trapezoidal depression, when viewed in cross section in each case.

The depression, in particular the trapezoidal shape or the trapezoidal depression, in particular having a 45° angle, makes it possible for the wedge to rest optimally on the contact surface, and a complete load transfer is achieved.

It is advantageous if the contact surface formed on the upper side of the wedge has side walls which extend complementary to the side walls of the contact surface of the wedge contact rail, wherein the contact surface of the wedge preferably has oblique side walls which preferably extend at an angle of 30° to 60°, particularly preferably at an angle of 45°, corresponding to the side walls of the depression in the wedge contact surface.

Such a design has proven to be particularly suitable for guiding the wedge in the preferably trapezoidal depression in the wedge contact rail. This can provide good linear guidance in the wedge-driving direction for driving in and releasing the wedge in the opposite direction. Furthermore, the forces that act in the lifting direction can also be very advantageously absorbed due to the inclined side walls.

In a development of the invention, it can be provided that the contact surface of the wedge, with which the wedge rests on the contact surface of the wedge contact rail, has, when viewed in cross section, two V-shaped projections between which there is a V-shaped depression, wherein the two V-shaped projections penetrate into the depression in the contact surface of the wedge contact rail, and one side wall of the V-shaped projection adjoins one of the side walls of the contact surface of the wedge contact rail.

Such a design of the contact surface of the wedge, with which the wedge penetrates into the depression in the wedge contact rail, has proven to be particularly suitable. Preferably, the two V-shaped projections are identical when viewed in cross section. Further preferably, the V-shaped depression in the contact surface is located, when viewed in cross section, mid-way between the two V-shaped projections.

According to the invention, it can further be provided that the cross brace is movable transversely to the wedge-driving direction between two end positions, wherein the cross brace assumes the locking position in the region of a first end position and the unlocking position in the region of a second end position.

It can be provided that, in particular the locking position comprises a locking region, in particular in order to be able to compensate for tolerances and wear. Preferably, the locking position and the unlocking position are each located at the end or in the end region of the cross brace.

The cross brace is preferably designed in such a way that it is captively received in the housing part. Movement of the cross brace can be limited by the preferably provided slots. However, it can also be provided that the cross brace has bends or projections in its end regions, which are designed in such a way that the cross brace strikes the wedge and/or the wedge contact rail in the end positions by means of the projections or bends. The bends or projections thus serve as end stops. Preferably, these end stops strike the wedge contact rail. Further preferably, the end stops limit the movement of the cross brace before the fastening means, in particular the screws, strike the ends of the particular slots. This relieves the screws and the slots.

The figures each show preferred embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are shown in combination with one another. Features of an embodiment can also be implemented separately from the other features of the same embodiment and can accordingly be easily combined with features of other embodiments by a person skilled in the art to form further useful combinations and subcombinations.

In the figures, functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference signs.

The figures show the following:

FIG. 1 is an arrangement of frame formwork elements, wherein the frame formwork elements are tensioned together by a plurality of turnbuckles according to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a turnbuckle according to the invention;

FIG. 3 is a side view of a turnbuckle according to the invention;

FIG. 4 is a further perspective view of a turnbuckle according to the invention;

FIG. 5 is a further perspective view of a turnbuckle according to the invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view from the front of a turnbuckle according to the invention;

FIG. 7 is a front view of a turnbuckle according to the invention;

FIG. 8 is a longitudinal section through a turnbuckle according to the invention, wherein a cross brace is in a locking position, and the wedge is in the bracing position such that the wedge engages in track teeth of a toothed portion;

FIG. 9 is a further longitudinal section through a turnbuckle according to the invention, wherein a cross brace is in an unlocking position such that the wedge does not engage with the track teeth;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the longitudinal section according to FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a turnbuckle according to the invention;

FIG. 12 is a top view of a turnbuckle according to the invention in a representation that shows a horizontal section through a cross brace;

FIG. 13 is a view according to FIG. 12, wherein the horizontal section extends below an upper side of the cross brace;

FIG. 14 is a longitudinal section through a second clamping device of a turnbuckle according to the invention;

FIG. 15 is an enlarged sectional view of the wedge in the bracing position and the cross brace in the locking position, with a wedge contact rail positioned between the wedge and the cross brace; and

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a wedge contact rail.

FIG. 1 shows six turnbuckles 1 according to the invention which connect frame formwork elements 2 to one another. Only a detail of the frame formwork element 2 depicted on the right in the image plane is shown. By way of example, in order to tension the middle frame formwork element 2 using the two outer frame formwork elements 2, three turnbuckles 1 are provided.

The turnbuckles 1 according to the invention are generally suitable for connecting or tensioning together two adjacent frame formwork elements 2, wherein in particular inner corners, outer corners, articulated corners and face formwork can be connected with the aid of the turnbuckles 1 according to the invention.

The turnbuckles 1 according to the invention are also suitable for connecting a frame formwork element 2 to an adjoining compensating element. In the context of the present invention, such compensating elements likewise constitute frame formwork elements.

The frame formwork elements 2 to be connected can preferably be made of wood, plastic, steel or aluminum. In general, the turnbuckles 1 according to the invention can be used to connect adjoining frame formwork elements 2 to one another in a flush, aligned and tight manner.

In particular, the turnbuckles 1 according to the invention are used to connect two frame formwork elements 2 positioned next to one another and extending in a common plane, as illustrated in FIG. 1.

The frame formwork elements 2 depicted in the embodiment each have two outer horizontal frame elements 3 (in FIG. 1, only the lower outer frame elements 3 are depicted, but not the upper outer frame elements) and two outer vertical frame elements 4, which collectively form a frame of the frame formwork element 2. Furthermore, horizontal struts 5 are provided.

The turnbuckles 1 according to the invention are generally arranged in the region of intersections of horizontal struts 5 and vertical frame elements 4 of the frame formwork elements 2, as is illustrated by way of example in FIG. 1.

In a manner not described in greater detail, the frame formwork elements 2 have a formlining or can be connected to a formlining which faces the material to be poured in and cured.

The frame formwork elements 2 are preferably frame formwork elements for producing bodies to be cast, in particular concrete bodies, in particular building parts.

Such frame formwork elements 2 are well known from the prior art, which is why they will not be discussed in more detail below.

In the embodiment, frame formwork elements 2 for wall formwork are depicted. The present invention is particularly suitable for frame formwork elements 2 which are used for foundation formwork.

The frame formwork elements 2 abut one another in a known manner with a boundary surface. The boundary surface is illustrated in FIG. 1 as a boundary line 6 between the middle frame formwork element 2 and the right frame formwork element 2, or the middle frame formwork element 2 and the left frame formwork element 2.

In the embodiment, the boundary line 6 is spanned by three turnbuckles 1, although fewer or more turnbuckles 1 can be provided.

The turnbuckles 1 each also span a vertical frame element 4 of each of the frame formwork elements 2 to be connected to one another. Furthermore, the turnbuckles 1 are preferably arranged on the horizontal struts 5 of the frame formwork elements 2, in particular as depicted in FIG. 1.

The depicted turnbuckles 1 in FIGS. 2 to 13 show a preferred design so that the turnbuckles 1 can grip around the horizontal struts 5.

The depicted turnbuckles 1 have a first clamping device 7 and a second clamping device 8.

The first clamping device 7 has a crossmember 9 which is preferably formed integrally with a first clamping jaw 10.

The first clamping jaw 10 is rigidly or immovably connected to the crossmember 9.

The crossmember 9 has a preferably flat or planar upper side 11 with a toothed portion 12. The toothed portion 12 has a plurality of track teeth 13 arranged one behind the other and extending in parallel with one another.

The second clamping device 8 can be moved in a bracing direction (arrow direction A in FIGS. 2 and 12) along the crossmember 9 toward the first clamping jaw 10 (and in the opposite direction).

If the two clamping devices 7, 8 are not tensioned together by a wedge 20 (shown in more detail below), the second clamping device 8 can be moved quickly and easily along the crossmember 9 without significant effort in order to adjust the turnbuckle 1 to the two frame formwork elements 2 to be connected to one another. This is also referred to as a quick adjustment.

In the embodiment, the crossmember 9 is preferably a tubular element, preferably having a substantially rectangular, in particular square, cross section.

In the embodiment, the upper side 11 and the toothed portion 12 with the track teeth 13 are preferably formed integrally with the crossmember 9.

The second clamping device 8 of the turnbuckle 1 has a second clamping jaw 14.

The first clamping jaw 10 and, analogously, the second clamping jaw 14 each have two claws 10a and 14a, respectively. The distance between the claws 10a and the claws 14a is preferably selected such that a horizontal strut 5 can be accommodated between the claws 10a and the claws 14a.

The second clamping jaw 14 and the second clamping device 8 can be moved in the bracing direction along the longitudinal axis of the crossmember 9 toward the first clamping jaw 10 (and in the opposite direction).

In the embodiment, it is provided that the second clamping device 8 is captively connected to the crossmember 9 of the first clamping device 7 or captively arranged on the crossmember 9.

For this purpose, it can be provided that any movement of the second clamping device 8 in and/or against the bracing direction is limited by shaped portions 15 and/or limit stops 18. The shaped portions 15 and/or the limit stops 18 are preferably arranged such that the second clamping device 8 cannot be removed from the crossmember 9 in and/or against the bracing direction.

In the embodiment, it is preferably provided that the crossmember 9 has shaped portions 15 at its two axial ends 9a, 9b. These can preferably be stamped regions (as shown). However, the shaped portions 15 can also be formed by any stop elements, e.g. pins, bolts or edges. The shaped portions 15 can interact with correspondingly complementary elements on the second clamping device 8 in such a way that the second clamping device 8 cannot be removed the crossmember 9 in and/or against the bracing direction. In the embodiment, the shaped portions 15 interact with limit stops 18 which are formed on the second clamping device 8, preferably by pins or bolts.

In the embodiment, a captive mechanism is shown by means of shaped portions 15 and limit stops 18, which interlockingly form a captive mechanism in and against the bracing direction. Preferably, one of the limit stops 18 interacts with one of the shaped portions 15 each time. Preferably, one, particularly preferably two, shaped portions 15 are provided at a first axial end 9a of the crossmember 9, which interact with one, preferably with two, limit stops 18 of the second clamping device 8. Preferably, one, particularly preferably two, shaped portions 15 are provided at the second end 9b of the crossmember 9, which interact with one, preferably two, limit stops 18 of the second clamping device 8.

It can also be provided that the shaped portions 15 and the limit stops 18 only limit a movement counter to the bracing direction.

A captive mechanism in the bracing direction can also be provided by the first clamping jaw 10 and the second clamping jaw 14 colliding with one another, that is to say, getting in each other's way in the bracing direction when the second clamping device 8 is moved up to an end point in the bracing direction A.

In order to move the second clamping device 8 in and against the bracing direction along the longitudinal axis of the crossmember 9, the crossmember 9 and the second clamping device 8 preferably form a rail or a rail guide in the embodiment which is designed in such a way that the second clamping device 8 is movably guided along the longitudinal axis of the crossmember 9 in the bracing direction and counter to the bracing direction. The upper side 11 of the crossmember 9, in particular the longitudinal edges of the upper side 11, which for this purpose preferably protrude beyond a first or a second longitudinal side 16, 17 of the crossmember 9, can represent parts of the rail guide. The inner side of the second clamping device 8 facing the longitudinal edges of the upper side 11 can accordingly be designed to complement the design of the rail guide. In the embodiment, it is provided that the limit stops 18 engage under the longitudinal edges of the crossmember 9. The limit stops 18 thus represent part of the rail guide. The limit stops 18 also prevent the second clamping device 8 from being liftable off the crossmember 9. A specific design of the inner side of the second clamping device 8 whereby it is complementary to the longitudinal edges of the upper side 11 of the crossmember 9 is therefore not necessary in the embodiment or is realized by the limit stops 18.

The second clamping device 8 has a guide device 19. The turnbuckle 1 has a wedge 20 which, guided by the guide device 19, is movable in a wedge-driving direction and can be brought into engagement with at least one of the track teeth 13 of the toothed portion 12 in order to fix the two clamping devices 7, 8 with respect to one another in a bracing position.

The wedge-driving direction is indicated by the arrow B in FIG. 2 and FIG. 12.

In the embodiment, it is preferably provided that the wedge 20 engages in two track teeth 13 of the toothed portion 12 in the bracing position.

In the embodiment, it is provided that the wedge-driving direction extends orthogonally to the bracing direction. Preferably, the wedge-driving direction and the bracing direction extend in a plane that is plane-parallel to the upper side 11 of the crossmember 9.

In order to tension the two clamping devices 7, 8 with one another in a bracing position by means of the wedge 20, it is provided that the track teeth 13 extend at an angle to the wedge-driving direction on the upper side 11 of the crossmember 9. The longitudinal axis of the wedge 20 thus does not run in parallel with the extension of the track teeth 13, but at a (small) angle thereto. This is clearly visible in FIGS. 12 and 13 and is also known in principle. This ensures that the track teeth 13 are brought into engagement with the wedge 20 in a bracing position. FIG. 15 shows (enlarged) the bracing position or the engagement of the wedge 20 in the track teeth 13.

The guide device 19 has a cross brace 21 which can move transversely to the wedge-driving direction between an unlocking position (visible in FIGS. 9 and 10) and a locking position (visible in FIG. 8).

The cross brace 21 is designed and arranged such that, in the locking position, the cross brace 21 limits a stroke of the wedge 20 in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion 12 such that the wedge 20 can be brought into engagement with the at least one track tooth 13 in the bracing position. Among other things, this is depicted in FIG. 8 and enlarged in FIG. 15. In the embodiment, the wedge 20 is in engagement with two track teeth 13, as shown in FIG. 15.

The cross brace 21 is designed such that the cross brace 21 allows for a larger stroke of the wedge 20 in the unlocking position.

It is provided in the embodiments that, in the unlocking position, the cross brace 21 allows for a stroke of the wedge 20 such that the engagement of the wedge 20 in the track teeth 13 can at least be reduced in the bracing position.

In the unlocking position, the cross brace 21 increases the stroke of the wedge 20 such that the wedge 20 can be disengaged from the track teeth 13 in the bracing position.

The embodiments show that the wedge 20 comprises teeth on its lower side. Viewed in cross section, preferably two projecting teeth 20a are provided, which preferably each extend over at least 50% of the length of the wedge 20, preferably over at least 80% of the length of the wedge 20. There is a groove 20b or a depression between the teeth 20a. The teeth 20a or the groove 20b of the wedge 20 are designed such that tooth flanks of the teeth 20a rest against tooth flanks of the track teeth 13 when the wedge 20 is driven into the bracing position. For this purpose, reference is made to the illustration according to FIG. 15.

In order to be able to release the bracing position again or to be able to remove the turnbuckle 1, it can now be provided that the cross brace 21 is moved from the locking position, in which the cross brace 21 is arranged when the wedge 20 is driven into the toothed portion 12 along the wedge-driving direction, into the unlocking position.

As described, in the unlocking position, the cross brace 21 increases the stroke of the wedge 20 such that the wedge 20 can be disengaged from the track teeth 13 without the wedge 20 having to be moved counter to the wedge-driving direction for this purpose.

The wedge 20 can thus be raised orthogonally to the toothed portion to such an extent that the teeth 20a on the lower side of the wedge 20 and the track teeth 13 no longer engage with one another, i.e. that their tooth flanks no longer touch. This is accordingly depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10. The two clamping devices 7 and 8 can thus be moved counter to the bracing direction and the turnbuckle 1 can thus be removed from the frame formwork elements 2 without the wedge 20 having to be moved. After the engagement of the wedge 20 in the track teeth 13 is reduced in the unlocking position or the wedge has preferably been completely disengaged from the track teeth 13, the wedge 20 can be moved counter to the wedge-driving direction without a relatively large amount of effort, if necessary also by hand, in order to withdraw the wedge 20 again.

As shown in the embodiment, the guide device 19 preferably has a housing part 22 with at least two guide recesses 23. The guide recesses 23 are arranged at a distance from one another in the wedge-driving direction. In the embodiment, the guide recesses 23 represent windows in side surfaces of the housing part 22, wherein the side surfaces are preferably plane-parallel to one another. The wedge 20 is passed through the guide recesses 23. The guide recesses 23 guide the wedge 20 in the wedge-driving direction.

The cross brace 21 is arranged on the housing part 22 so that it can move transversely to the wedge-driving direction.

As can be seen from FIGS. 2 to 15, a wedge contact rail 24 is movably arranged in the guide recesses 23 such that the wedge contact rail 24 can perform a lifting movement orthogonally to the toothed portion 12. The wedge contact rail 24 is arranged in the guide recesses 23 on a side of the wedge 20 facing away from the toothed portion 12 such that a lower side of the wedge contact rail 24 adjoins an upper side of the wedge 20. The cross brace 21 is arranged on the housing part 22 in such a way that the cross brace 21 adjoins an upper side of the wedge contact rail 24 facing away from the wedge 20, and the cross brace 21 limits the stroke of the wedge contact rail 24. The wedge contact rail 24 is thus located between the cross brace 21 and the wedge 20.

A perspective view of an advantageous embodiment of the wedge contact rail 24 is shown in FIG. 17.

The wedge contact rail 24 simplifies both the guidance or the driving of the wedge 20 in the wedge-driving direction such that the wedge 20 can be brought into the bracing position, as well as the movement of the cross brace 21 between the unlocking position and the locking position.

The cross brace 21 is preferably arranged on a lower side of the housing part 22 of the guide device 19. The cross brace 21 can thus be supported on the lower side of the housing part 22.

The cross brace 21 preferably has at least one, in the embodiment two, slots 26, by means of which the cross brace 21 is movably arranged on the housing part 22. In the embodiment, the cross brace 21 is screwed to the housing part 22. For this purpose, screws 27 are provided in the embodiment.

In the embodiment, the slots 26 together with the screws 27 limit any movement of the cross brace 21 transversely to the wedge-driving direction.

The cross brace 21 can move between two end positions transversely to the wedge-driving direction. In so doing, the cross brace 21 assumes the locking position in the region of a first end position and the unlocking position in the region of a second end position.

The cross brace 21 has a control surface 25 on its lower side facing the wedge 20 that at least extends over some of the length of the cross brace 21 and limits the stroke of the wedge 20 in the guide recesses 23 to different values depending on the position of the cross brace 21.

As can be seen particularly well from FIGS. 8 and 9, the control surface 25 has at least a first portion 25a which, when the cross brace 21 is brought into contact with the upper side of the wedge contact rail 24 or the upper side of the wedge 20 in the locking position, limits a stroke of the wedge 20 in a direction orthogonal to the toothed portion 12 such that the wedge 20 can be brought into engagement with the track teeth 13. The control surface 25 has a second portion 25b which, when the cross brace 21 is brought into contact with the upper side of the wedge contact rail 24 or the upper side of the wedge 20 in the unlocking position, allows a larger stroke of the wedge 20.

In the embodiment, the control surface 25 further comprises a transition region 25c between the first portion 25a and the second portion 25b.

In the embodiment, it is provided that the first portion 25a has such an inclination that the stroke becomes smaller or the wedge contact rail 24 or the wedge 20 is pressed further in the direction of the toothed portion 12 the further the cross brace 21 is moved into the locking position.

The transition portion 25c preferably has a greater inclination than the first portion 25a. The second portion 25b preferably has no inclination.

In the embodiment, the wedge 20 is captively arranged in the guide recesses 23. For this purpose, it can be provided that the wedge 20 has a projection at each of its two ends, which projects in at least one direction beyond the correspondingly associated guide recess 23.

In the embodiment, it is further provided that the wedge contact rail 24 is captively arranged in the guide recesses 23. For this purpose, it can be provided that the wedge contact rail 24 has a projection at each of its axial ends, which projects in at least one direction beyond the correspondingly associated guide recess 23. Preferably, the projection can be formed by welding or riveting a stop element.

In the embodiment, it is provided that the wedge contact rail 24 has a contact surface on the lower side, which forms a linear guide together with a contact surface formed on the upper side of the wedge 20 for guiding the wedge 20 in the wedge-driving direction, wherein the two stop surfaces are preferably complementary.

In the embodiment, it is provided that the contact surface for the wedge 20 formed on the lower side of the wedge contact rail 24 has, viewed in cross section, a depression 28, wherein the depression 28 is, as shown, preferably formed as a trapezoidal depression. Alternatively, the depression 28 can also be formed, for example, as a triangular depression, as a depression with rounded edges, as a circular depression, as a rounded depression or by grooves. The depression 28 can also have a flat bottom 28a viewed in cross section, from which side walls 28b extend in the direction of the wedge 20 that run outward at an angle of 30° to 60°, preferably 45°, to the bottom (28a). This is correspondingly depicted in particular in FIGS. 15 and 16.

Forming a trapezoidal depression 28 has proven to be particularly suitable for guiding the wedge 20.

In the embodiment, it is provided that the contact surface formed on the upper side of the wedge 20 has side walls which extend complementary to the side walls 28b of the contact surface of the wedge contact rail 24.

It has also proven to be advantageous if the contact surface of the wedge 20, with which the wedge 20 rests on the contact surface of the wedge contact rail 24, in particular if this is designed as a trapezoidal depression 28, has, viewed in cross section, two V-shaped projections 29a between which there is a V-shaped depression 29b. The two V-shaped projections 29a penetrate into the depression of the contact surface of the wedge contact rail 24. Each side wall of the V-shaped projection adjoins one of the side walls 28b of the contact surface of the wedge contact rail 24. This is accordingly depicted enlarged in FIG. 15.

In the embodiment, the housing part 22 and the cross brace 21 preferably have a U-shaped profile viewed in cross section.

The cross brace 21 is thus, viewed in cross section, substantially formed by the bottom of the U-shaped profile and two side walls. In the embodiment, it is provided that the control surface 25 is formed on the free lower edges of the side walls of the U-shaped profile. The lower edges or the free ends of the side walls of the U-shaped profile are identical. The two lower edges collectively form the control surface 25.

The clamping devices 7, 8, the wedge 20, the cross brace 21 and the wedge contact rail 24 are made of metal, preferably steel, in the embodiment.

FIGS. 2 to 8 show a view of the turnbuckle 1 in which the cross brace 21 is in the locking position and the wedge 20 is driven in until reaching the bracing position.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show a view of the cross brace 21 in an unlocking position.

FIG. 12 shows a view in which the upper side of the housing part 22 is removed so that the cross brace 21 can be seen from above. In the illustration according to FIG. 12, the cross brace 21 is cut in the longitudinal direction. FIG. 12 serves in particular to illustrate the preferably provided arrangement of the cross brace 21 and also the view of the slots 26.

FIG. 13 shows a view according to FIG. 12 with a section through the cross brace 21, which extends somewhat lower, i.e. closer to the crossmember 9, than the section according to FIG. 12. In the view in FIG. 13, the upper side (=bottom of the U-shaped profile) of the cross brace 21, in which the slots 26 are located, is therefore not shown.

FIG. 14 shows a cross section through the second clamping device 8, wherein a wedge contact rail 24 is inserted into the depicted guide recess 23.

As can be seen from FIG. 14 and also from FIG. 15, the guide recesses 23 preferably have a shoulder 23a on which a lower side of the wedge contact rail 24 can rest such that any movement of the wedge contact rail 24 toward the toothed portion 12 is limited.