Chain link for an energy guide chain and having a cover which can be put into two different stable positions

摘要

A chain link used in fabricating a flexible energy guide chain for supporting energy conduits from a fixed attachment point to a moveable consuming load. The chain link is composed of two parallel side plates and a base plate interconnecting the side plates so as to form a U-shaped passage for the conduits. A cover is pivotally mounted to one of the side plates by a hinge connection which permits pivotal movement between a first stable position wherein the passage is open and a second stable position wherein the passage is closed. The hinge exerts a spring force which resists movement of the cover from either of its stable positions toward the other stable position.