Energy chain with its own energy source and chain link for same

Abstract

An energy chain for guiding lines, such as cables, hoses or the like, between two connection points, at least one of which is movable relative to the other. The energy chain comprises chain links which are connected to each other and pivotable with respect to each other, wherein the energy chain is movable in particular with a first strand relative to a second strand while forming a deflection are between the strands and at least one load consuming electrical energy, which is arranged at or in the energy chain, in particular at least one sensor module at a chain link for detecting an operating parameter of the energy chain. The energy chain includes an energy converter which is designed to convert mechanical energy, in particular kinetic energy, of the energy chain into electrical energy when the energy chain, in particular the movable first strand and/or the deflection arc, is moved, and which is connected or connectable to the consumer load in order to supply the latter.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.