Device and method for aligning a plurality of bodies

Abstract

Device (10) for aligning a plurality of bodies relative to each other, comprising an elongated positioning element (12), a first longitudinal profile (14) with a defined first reference point (I), wherein the first longitudinal profile (14) is fixedly arranged adjacent to the positioning element (12) and at least one first contact element (16) can be attached to the first longitudinal profile (14) at a selected position at a predetermined distance to the first reference point (I), an elongated contact device (18) with a defined second reference point (II) and with an alignment element (20), wherein the contact device (18) can be arranged parallel to the first longitudinal profile (14) and at least a predetermined distance (A1) thereto, wherein at least a second contact element (22) can be attached to the contact device (18) at a selected position, namely at a distance to the second reference point (II) which corresponds to the predetermined distance between the first contact element (16) and the first reference point (I), and a scale device (24) which has at least one scale (ag) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (18L) of the contact device (18) with at least one angular division, wherein the scale device (24) is positioned such that its distance with respect to the first longitudinal profile (14) is unchanging, wherein the contact device (18) is translationally displaceable and parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14) and the alignment element (20) is brought into conformity with a selected angular division of a scale (ag) of the scale device (24) such that a connecting line (27) which runs in a straight line between the first reference point (I) and the second reference point (II) forms a predetermined angle (α) with a perpendicular (S) which is directed towards a surface (14-O) of the first longitudinal profile (14) at the location of its first reference point (I) in accordance with the selected angular division.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for aligning a plurality of bodies relative to each other, and a corresponding method.

[0002] In metalworking, a common process involves joining multiple components, for example, by welding. These components typically have a longitudinal axis, and they are arranged relative to each other such that the longitudinal axis of one component runs at an angle to the longitudinal axis of another, preferably at an angle between 0° and 90°, e.g., 20°. Before welding, it is essential to position the components precisely at the angle that their longitudinal axes will maintain after welding. This is particularly relevant in railing manufacturing, where multiple crossbars must be attached or welded at an angle to a handrail.

[0003] According to current technology, the above assembly tasks can be carried out manually by skilled workers, for example on assembly tables or similar equipment. However, such purely manual assembly work is very time-consuming and prone to errors if the person performing the work is not careful.

[0004] From DE 10 2007 013 088 A1, an automatic railing welding jig is known, which is used in the field of railing and mesh manufacturing and serves to divide and hold rod-like objects when welding parallel infill bars and posts. Here, a belt feed (in the form of a handrail and / or an intermediate belt) is carried out via rollers, which can be arranged horizontally and vertically in groups of three, such that two rollers are always opposite a third roller.

[0005] A welding device for manufacturing a handrail is known from CN 2 04 234 948 U. This welding device comprises a lower rail and an upper rail arranged parallel to it, wherein a frame device for fixing a handrail is arranged between the upper and lower rails and can be moved to the left or right. Furthermore, a longitudinally movable welding frame is attached between the upper and lower rails. To accommodate the frame device, a handrail positioning component and a handrail welding component are attached to the welding frame, thereby simplifying the welding of a handrail.

[0006] Particularly for the purpose of railing fabrication, so-called welding jigs are known from the prior art, e.g., from EP 0 849 030 B1 or DE 22 19 276 A, US 2 648 896 A or DE 20 2006 005 926 U1. These jigs employ a scissor mechanism, with brackets provided on the scissor elements to which the components to be welded, e.g., balusters, can be attached. By changing the width of the scissor mechanism, it is possible to adjust the angle of the components attached to the brackets of the scissor elements relative to a vertical or a handrail. However, a disadvantage of the welding jig according to EP 0 849 030 B1, for example, is that such an angle between the longitudinal axes of the components cannot be set directly, but only indirectly via a calculation table or similar method. This is complicated and difficult to handle for an inexperienced operator.

[0007] Accordingly, the object of the invention is to create an assembly aid with which several bodies can be aligned relative to each other in a simple manner, in particular at an angle to each other.

[0008] This problem is solved by a device having the features specified in claim 1, and by a method having the features specified in claim 18. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

[0009] The invention provides a device for aligning a plurality of bodies relative to one another, comprising an elongated positioning element, a first longitudinal profile with a defined first reference point, wherein the first longitudinal profile is fixedly arranged adjacent to the positioning element and at least one first contact element can be attached to the first longitudinal profile at a selected position at a predetermined distance from the first reference point, an elongated contact device with a defined second reference point and with an alignment element, wherein the contact device can be arranged parallel to the first longitudinal profile and at least a predetermined distance therefrom, wherein at least one second contact element can be attached to the contact device at a selected position, namely at a distance from the second reference point that corresponds to the predetermined distance between the first contact element and the first reference point.and a scale device comprising at least one scale, in particular one extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the contact device, with at least one angular division, wherein the scale device is positioned such that its distance with respect to the first longitudinal profile is constant. The contact device can be moved translationally and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile, whereby the alignment element can then be brought into conformity with a selected angular division of a scale of the scale device, namely such that a connecting line, which runs in a straight line between the first reference point and the second reference point, forms a predetermined angle corresponding to the selected angular division with a perpendicular directed at a surface of the first longitudinal profile at the location of its first reference point.

[0010] According to the present invention, for aligning a plurality of bodies relative to one another, a first body can be placed against the positioning element, and a second body can be placed against the first and second contact elements. The first body can, for example, be the handrail of a stair railing, with the second body then being formed in the form of a plurality of crossbars that are to be attached to the handrail, e.g. by welding.

[0011] Similarly, the invention also provides a method for aligning a plurality of bodies relative to each other, which comprises the following steps: - Attaching a first body to an elongated positioning element, - Providing a first longitudinal profile adjacent to the positioning element, equipped with a defined first reference point, wherein at least one first contact element can be attached to the first longitudinal profile at a selected position, - Providing a contact device with a defined second reference point parallel to the first longitudinal profile and at least a predetermined distance from the first longitudinal profile, wherein the contact device is translationally displaceable and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile, wherein at least a second contact element can be attached to the contact device at a selected position, namely at a distance from the second reference point which corresponds to the predetermined distance between the first contact element and the first reference point, - Applying a second body to the first contact element and to the second contact element, whereby the contact device is moved translationally and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile, such that the second body is thereby aligned at a predetermined angle relative to the first body.

[0012] In an advantageous further development of the method according to the invention, it can be provided that a scale device, which has at least one scale extending, in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis of the contact device, with at least one angular division, is provided at a fixed distance with respect to the first longitudinal profile, wherein, when the contact device is moved parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile, an alignment element provided on the second contact device is brought into conformity with a selected angular division of a scale of the scale device, such that a connecting line, which runs straight between the first reference point and the second reference point, with a perpendicular directed at a surface of the first contact device at the location of its first reference point, corresponds to the predetermined angle by which the first body is aligned relative to the second body.includes in accordance with the selected angle division.

[0013] The invention is based on the essential insight that by shifting the contact device, it is possible to bring its alignment element into conformity with a selected angular division of a scale of the scale device, and thereby, in a simple manner, namely, for example, by reading or selecting the desired value of the angular division, to set the predetermined angle by which the two bodies are to be positioned with their respective longitudinal axes inclined to each other. This is equivalent to the fact that the connecting line, which runs in a straight line between the first reference point of the first longitudinal profile and the second reference point of the contact device, forms this predetermined angle with a perpendicular to the surface of the first longitudinal profile at the location of its first reference point.

[0014] In practice, this means that after a first body has been placed against the positioning element and a second body has been placed against the first and second contact elements, the operator moves the contact device parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile until the alignment element of the contact device is aligned with the selected angular division of a scale on the scale device, which indicates the desired angle at which the first and second bodies are to be positioned relative to each other. The alignment element of the contact device can then be set on the scale device, e.g.,by clamping or by a form-fitting element, so that precise positioning of the contact device and the attached second contact element relative to the first longitudinal profile is ensured, in order to carry out further processing of the first and second bodies on the basis of this (e.g. tack welding together, for the purpose of later welding).

[0015] A simple case of aligning the two bodies relative to each other occurs when their longitudinal axes are perpendicular to each other, i.e., at an angle of 90°. In this case, the line connecting the first and second reference points coincides with the perpendicular to the surface of the first longitudinal profile—in other words, the angle between this line and the perpendicular is zero. Alternatively, the alignment of the two bodies relative to each other can be carried out, for example, within an angle range between 0° and 60°, depending on the specific requirements.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the contact device can be brought into a starting position in which the connecting line is coincident with the perpendicular to the surface of the first longitudinal profile at the location of its first reference point, so that the predetermined angle between the connecting line and the perpendicular is zero. Such a configuration of the starting position for the contact device ensures high precision for accurately setting a desired angle between the bodies.

[0017] Translational movement of the contact element parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile can be effectively achieved by at least one sliding element, in which the contact element can be accommodated. For example, such a sliding element has the form of an upwardly open U-profile, between whose legs the contact element is guided in a form-fitting manner. A low coefficient of friction with respect to the movement of the contact element can be ensured by a contact block or the like, made of low-friction plastic (e.g., PTFE), and / or by roller elements, wherein the contact element touches or contacts this contact block or the roller elements, respectively.

[0018] The essential elements of the device according to the invention, namely the positioning element, the first longitudinal profile, the scale device, and optionally the at least one sliding element, can be suitably mounted on a frame device, provided that the positioning element is arranged adjacent to the first longitudinal profile and that the scale device maintains a fixed distance from the first longitudinal profile. Such a frame device can have a second longitudinal profile that can be positioned parallel to the first longitudinal profile and at least a predetermined distance therefrom. The sliding element, by means of which, as explained, translational displacement of the contact device is enabled, can be mounted on the second longitudinal profile.

[0019] The aforementioned frame assembly is to be understood as part of the device according to the invention and, in an advantageous embodiment, can be designed as a virtual table surface. This means that a purely virtual table surface is stretched across the frame elements of this frame assembly, with the first longitudinal profile and the second longitudinal profile being attached to the frame elements of this frame assembly. Designing a purely virtual table surface offers the advantage that, for the purpose of simplified assembly, an operator can be positioned "in the middle" of the virtual table surface, i.e., in an area between the individual frame elements of the frame assembly.

[0020] According to an alternative embodiment, it is also possible for the aforementioned essential elements of the device according to the invention, namely the positioning element, the first longitudinal profile, the scale device, and optionally the sliding element, to be attached to a mounting device, for example, in the form of an assembly table. For this purpose, the aforementioned elements of the device according to the invention are compatible with commercially available assembly tables with regard to their mounting connections. This means that a separate frame device is not required for carrying out the present invention if such an assembly table is available.It is expressly pointed out here that a fastening device, for example in the form of a conventional assembly table, is not part of the present invention, but is merely suitable for positioning or holding the aforementioned essential elements of the device according to the invention as intended.

[0021] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the scale device can have a longitudinal extension that runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile. Here, the scale has a plurality of angular divisions in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the scale device, each corresponding to a predetermined angle formed between the connecting line running between the first and second contact elements and the perpendicular to the surface of the first longitudinal profile. Such a plurality of angular divisions preferably covers several different angles that are relevant or desired for aligning the bodies relative to each other.In this case, by translationally shifting the contact device and thereby aligning the contact device's alignment element with a specific angular scale, the exact angle at which the second body is to be inclined relative to the first body's longitudinal axis can be easily set. Advantageously, the angular scales can each be labeled with corresponding angle values, allowing an operator to easily select a specific scale corresponding to the desired angle between the two bodies and align the contact device's alignment element accordingly.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the alignment element can be fixed to the scale device, e.g., by clamping, by attaching it using magnetic support, or by positive locking if the individual angular divisions of the scale device are formed by holes in a plate. In the latter case, it is advantageous if the alignment element is designed in the form of an elongated hole, so that a bolt or the like can be inserted through the elongated hole and a corresponding hole of a specific angular division to fix the alignment element relative to the scale device.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the scale device can be designed in the form of a plate, with each angular division of the scale device being formed by holes. Such a design of the scale device is extremely robust and can be manufactured inexpensively. Furthermore, the angular divisions on such a scale device are intuitively readable and therefore very easy to read.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the scale device can have a width extension that runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile. In this case, the scale device then has a plurality of scales in the direction of its width extension, each of which has a predetermined distance to the first reference point of the first longitudinal profile and each of which runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile. This means that the distance of each scale from the first reference point, namely perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile, is known in advance, and these distances are suitably coordinated with the angular divisions of the individual scales.

[0025] The width of the scale mechanism allows the contact element to be positioned at variable distances perpendicular to the first longitudinal profile. In other words, the contact element can be positioned parallel to the frame or mounting device at different distances perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile, precisely within the area corresponding to the width of the scale mechanism perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile. This allows the contact element to be used in different positions, i.e., at different distances from the first longitudinal profile, should this be necessary during assembly or work preparation for aligning the various components.

[0026] In an alternative embodiment, the scale device can also be designed in the form of a cylinder that is rotatable about its longitudinal axis and arranged with its longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal profile. This cylinder can be mounted either on a frame or on a mounting table, to which the positioning element, the first longitudinal profile, and the sliding element can also be attached. Advantageously, the angular graduations for a scale can be provided or formed in a spiral pattern on the cylinder's outer circumferential surface. This allows for a higher degree of discretization of the angular graduations and thus greater accuracy when setting a predetermined angle between multiple bodies.

[0027] For the last-mentioned embodiment of a scale device in the form of a cylinder, it should be specifically noted that a single scale is provided or depicted on its outer circumferential surface, preferably spirally along the outer circumferential surface. If the contact device is to be arranged at a different distance from the first longitudinal profile, a scale device in the form of a different cylinder can be provided, wherein this cylinder has angular graduations on its outer circumferential surface that are adapted to the changed distance of the contact device relative to the first longitudinal profile. This means that each cylinder represents or has its own scale, and if the distance of the contact device to the first longitudinal profile is changed, the cylinder can be replaced by another cylinder with an adapted scale.

[0028] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0029] The invention is shown schematically below with reference to an embodiment in the drawing and is described in detail with reference to the drawing.

[0030] They show: Fig. 1 different views of a device according to the invention in a first embodiment, Fig. Two different views of an elongated positioning element, for use in the device according to Fig. 1, Fig. Three different views of a first longitudinal profile, for use with the device according to Fig. 1, Fig. Four different views of an elongated contact device for use in the apparatus according to Fig. 1, Fig. 5 different views of a sliding element according to a first embodiment, for use in the device according to Fig. 1, Fig. Six different views of a sliding element according to a second embodiment, for use in the device according to Fig. 1, Fig. 7 a perspective view of a fastening device in the form of an assembly table, Fig. 8 A top view of a scale device, for use with the apparatus according to Fig. 1, and Fig. 9 a top view of part of the device of Fig. 1, if a plurality of bodies are aligned with each other.

[0031] The following are, with reference to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. Eight preferred embodiments of a device 10 according to the invention are explained in detail. In these embodiments, identical technical features of the device 10 are identified by the same reference numerals. With regard to the drawings, it should be noted that the corresponding figures are not to scale.

[0032] In the Fig. Figure 1 shows the device 10 according to the invention in various views, namely in a top view (Figure 1.1), in a side view (Figure 1.2), in a front view (Figure 1.3), and in a rear view (Figure 1.4). The device 10 comprises an elongated positioning element 12 and a first longitudinal profile 14 provided adjacent thereto.

[0033] Positioning element 12 is in the Fig. Figure 2 shows the positioning element 12 in different views, namely in a side view (Figure 2.1) and in an end view (Figure 2.2). The positioning element 12 includes a raised edge 13, which serves to allow a preferably elongated body to be placed against it.

[0034] The first longitudinal profile 14 is in the Fig. Figure 3 shows the structure in different views, namely in a side view (Figure 3.1), in a top view (Figure 3.2), and in a perspective view (Figure 3.3). The representation according to Fig. Figure 3.2 clarifies that the first longitudinal profile 14 has a defined first reference point I, preferably adjacent to a free end thereof. To clarify one function of the invention, the reference numeral “S” is used in the Fig. 3.2 denotes a perpendicular line that is orthogonal to a surface of the first longitudinal profile 14 at the location of its first reference point I. The function of this first reference point I is explained in detail below.

[0035] The Fig. Figure 3 further illustrates that a plurality of bores 15 are formed on the upper surface of the first longitudinal profile 14. These bores serve to receive a first contact element 16, which—depending on the application—is inserted into one of these bores 15 at a predetermined distance from the first reference point I. It is also possible to insert a plurality of contact elements 16 into selected bores 15. A contact element 16 can, for example, be formed from a bolt or the like.

[0036] The device 10 comprises an elongated contact device 18 with a defined second reference point II.

[0037] In the Fig. Figure 4 shows the contact device 18 in various views, namely in a side view (Figure 4.1), in a top view (Figure 4.2), and in a perspective view (Figure 4.3). A plurality of bores 19 are formed on a top surface of the contact device 18 for receiving at least one second contact element 22, which—in the same way as a first contact element 16—may be in the form of a bolt or the like. The second contact element 22 is installed in a bore 19 of the contact device at a distance from the second reference point II that corresponds to the predetermined distance between the first contact element 16 and the first reference point I.

[0038] The contact device 18 has an alignment element 20, preferably at a free end thereof. This alignment element 20 can be in the form of an elongated hole 21, the function of which is explained below.

[0039] To align multiple bodies, it is provided that a first body can be brought into contact with the positioning element 12, while a second body can be brought into contact with the first and second contact elements 16, 22. This is further explained below in connection with the Fig. 9 explained.

[0040] For the implementation of the invention, it is provided that the contact device 18 is displaceable translationally and parallel to the longitudinal axis 14L of the first longitudinal profile 14. For this purpose, sliding elements 28 are provided, which according to the embodiment of Fig. 5 with at least one contact block 30 consisting of low-friction plastic, or according to the embodiment of Fig. 6 are equipped with roller elements 32. One such sliding element 28 is located in the Fig. Figures 5 and 6 are shown in different views, namely in a side view (Figure 5.1 and 6.1), a front view (Figure 5.2 and 6.2), and in a perspective view (Figure 5.3 and 6.3).

[0041] The sliding element 28 is designed, for example, in the form of an upwardly open U-profile, as shown in the illustrations according to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. On its underside, the sliding element 28 is provided with pins 29, the function of which will be explained below.

[0042] In the embodiment according to Fig. 5 The low-friction plastic 30 is preferably applied both in the base area of ​​the U-profile and on the inner surfaces of its legs. In the embodiment according to Fig. 6. The roller devices 32 are provided on both legs of the U-profile. The contact device 18 can be inserted into the sliding element 28 such that the contact device 18 contacts the low-friction plastic 30 or the roller elements 32. As a result, low-friction movement of the contact device 18 relative to the sliding element 28 is ensured.

[0043] The device 10 comprises a scale device 24. When the contact device 18 is moved parallel to the longitudinal axis 14L of the first longitudinal profile 14, the aligning element 20 of the contact device 18 interacts with the scale device 24 to set a desired angle at which a first and second body are positioned relative to each other. This is explained in more detail below.

[0044] In the embodiment according to Fig. 1 a frame device 34 is provided, to which a second longitudinal profile 36 (cf. Fig. 1) can be attached, namely parallel to the first longitudinal profile 14. A plurality of bores are formed on an upper surface of the second longitudinal profile 36, namely for the purpose that the pins 29 of a sliding element 28 can be inserted into them. In this way, it is possible to attach a sliding element 28, or a plurality of sliding elements 28, to the second longitudinal profile 36 in order to enable a translational displacement of the contact device 18 parallel to the longitudinal axis 14L of the first longitudinal profile 14.

[0045] The second longitudinal profile 36 can be attached to the frame assembly 34 such that it maintains a predetermined distance A1 ( Fig. 1) to the first longitudinal profile 14. In this regard, it should be noted that the second longitudinal profile 36 can also be attached to the frame assembly 34 in a different position in order to change the distance of the second longitudinal profile 36 to the first longitudinal profile 14 - if necessary.

[0046] The frame assembly 34 serves to allow the positioning element 12, the first longitudinal profile 14, the scale assembly 24, and the second longitudinal profile 36 to be attached to it. By allowing the sliding elements 28 to be attached to the second longitudinal profile 36 as described, it is ensured that the contact device 18 can be moved parallel to the longitudinal axis 14L of the first longitudinal profile by the sliding elements 28.

[0047] As an alternative to the framework 34 according to Fig. 1. It is possible to attach the essential components of the device according to the invention, namely positioning element 12, first longitudinal profile 14, scale device 24, and sliding elements 28 for guiding the contact device 18, to a mounting device 38, e.g., in the form of a conventional assembly table. In this case, the individual mounting or connection elements of the components of the device 10 are adapted to the dimensions or bores of such an assembly table 38. It should be specifically noted here that when using such a conventional assembly table, the provision of a second longitudinal profile 36 is not necessary.

[0048] Fig. Figure 8 shows a top view of the scale device 24, which is designed in the form of a rectangular plate 25. This plate 25 is – in the representation of Fig. 8 with its right edge - attached to the frame assembly 34 by means of screws 26 or the like, and thus has a predetermined distance to the first longitudinal profile 14.

[0049] The scale device 24 has a longitudinal extent L that runs parallel to the longitudinal axis 14L of the first longitudinal profile 14. Furthermore, the scale device 24 has a lateral extent B that runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14L of the first longitudinal profile 14.

[0050] For the intended use of the invention, the scale device 24 is arranged with respect to the first longitudinal profile 14 such that a free end of the contact device and the alignment element 20 provided thereon cover the scale device 24 in its longitudinal extent L. This is shown in the top view according to Fig. 1.1 shown.

[0051] In the direction of its width B, the scale device has a plurality of scales, which are represented by Fig. 8 are each labelled with the letters "a" - "g". The individual scales ag each run in the direction of the longitudinal extent L of the scale device 24.

[0052] The area covered by the scales ag along the width B of the scale device 24 defines an adjustment range 40 within which the distance of the contact device 18 to the first longitudinal profile 14 can be changed. In other words, the contact device 18 can be arranged at different distances from and parallel to the first longitudinal profile 14, as long as the alignment element 20 of the contact device 18 overlaps the scale device 24 with respect to the scales a - g mounted on it.

[0053] For the scale device 24, a virtual zero point NP is provided. Starting from this zero point NP, virtual support lines 42 extend, as shown in the representation of Fig. 8 each shown with a dashed line, at selected angles, across the individual scales a - g. In the example according to Fig. Figure 8 shows a total of four support lines 1-4, which enclose different angles with respect to a vertical to the zero point, i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14L of the first longitudinal profile 14. Specifically, the following angles are chosen for the support lines: support line 1 = 10°; support line 2 = 25°; support line 3 = 35°; and support line 4 = 50°. The points of intersection of these support lines 1-4 with the individual scales a-g then define angular divisions on these scales, corresponding to the aforementioned angles. At the locations of these angular divisions, bores or through holes 44 can be formed in the plate 25, and preferably also markings to designate these individual angles.

[0054] To prepare for the later discussion of an example, the presentation of Fig. 9 the angle division which lies on the scale d, namely at the intersection with the support line 2 which has an angle of 25° to the vertical, is provided with the reference sign “46”.

[0055] Regarding the virtual support lines 1-4, which are in the Fig. Figure 8 shows that these are only examples. Any number of other support lines are possible, each extending from the zero point along the scale 24 at an angle between 0° and 90°. At the intersection of each support line with the individual scales ag, angle divisions corresponding to the respective angles are provided, e.g., in the form of a through-hole 44. Additionally and / or alternatively, a label corresponding to a specific angle may be placed at the location of this division.

[0056] Regarding the scale device 24, it should be further noted that its zero point NP can also be virtual. This means that a number of angular divisions, e.g., in the form of the aforementioned bores 44, are aligned along support lines, each assigned to a specific angular value and originating from a "virtual zero point NP" that does not physically exist on the scale device 24, but merely as an imaginary extension, namely outside the scale device 24. However, this does not change the fact that the alignment of the individual support lines, and thus the angular divisions, is carried out according to the same principle as for the Fig. 9 explains how this is possible.

[0057] Fig. Figure 9 shows a highly simplified top view of parts of the device 10 when a first body K1 and, for example, a plurality of second bodies K2 are machined with it. The positioning element 12, the first longitudinal profile 14 arranged adjacent to it, and the contact device 18 arranged parallel to the first longitudinal profile 14 are shown. First contact elements 16, for example in the form of pins, are inserted into selected bores 15 of the first longitudinal profile 14. Fig. Figure 9 shows each pin 16 as a filled circle. These pins 16 each have a predetermined distance to the first reference point I of the first longitudinal profile 14. Similarly, second contact elements 22, also e.g. in the form of pins, are inserted into the bores 19, with these pins 22 each having a distance to the second reference point II of the contact device 18 that corresponds to the distance of the pins 16 to the first reference point I.

[0058] The first body K1 is positioned against the positioning element 12, resting against its edge 13. Accordingly, the first body K1 is aligned parallel to the positioning element 12, i.e., to the first longitudinal profile 14. A second body K2.1 is positioned in contact with the pins 16 and 22, which are each located a short distance from the reference points I and II. A further body K2.2 is positioned in contact with the pins 16 and 22, which are each located a greater distance from the reference points I and II. The pins 16 and 22 are attached to the first longitudinal profile 14, i.e., to the contact element 18, such that the two second bodies K2.1 and K2.2 are aligned parallel to each other.

[0059] The invention now works as follows, with reference to the example according to the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9:

[0060] For the presentation according to Fig. 9 it is assumed that the contact device 18 is arranged at such a distance parallel to the first longitudinal profile 14 that the alignment element 20 of the contact device corresponds to the scale d of the scale device 24 (cf. Fig. 8) painted over.

[0061] If the second bodies K2.1 and K2.2 are to be aligned with respect to the first body K1 such that the longitudinal axes of the second bodies K2.1 and K2.2 form an angle of, for example, 25° with a perpendicular directed towards a surface of the first body K1, then the contact device 18 is moved translationally and parallel to the first longitudinal profile 14 such that the alignment element 20 is brought into conformity with the angle division shown in the Fig. 8 is marked with the reference numeral "46". If the angle scale is formed in the form of a bore 44, it is advantageous to form the alignment element 20 in the form of an elongated hole 21, so that to fix the contact element 18 relative to the scale 24, a bolt or the like is simply inserted through the elongated hole 21 and the bore 44. This then fixes the contact element 18 positively and precisely relative to the scale 24.

[0062] The representation of Fig. Figure 9 further illustrates a perpendicular S directed towards a surface 14-O of the first longitudinal profile 14 at the location of its first reference point I. If the alignment element 20 is now aligned with the angle division "46" (as explained, this angle division corresponds to the angle value of 25°) and fixed at this location, the contact device 18 is positioned with respect to the first longitudinal profile 14 such that a connecting line 27, which runs straight between the first reference point I and the second reference point II, forms an angle α with the perpendicular S, where this angle α corresponds exactly to the angle by which the second bodies K2.1 and K2.2 should be aligned relative to the first body K1. For the example discussed here, the angle α then assumes the value of 25°.

[0063] The setting to the exemplary angle of 25° can be easily achieved by marking the through-hole 44 in the plate 25 with "25°" at precisely this location. Similarly, all other angle divisions on the scale 24 can also be marked in this way. Thus, the desired positioning of the contact device 18 relative to the scale 24 can be easily accomplished by aligning the alignment element 20 with the through-hole and the corresponding marking for the desired angle.

[0064] If, for manufacturing reasons, it should be necessary to change the distance between the contact device 18 and the first longitudinal profile 14, this can be done within the adjustment range 40 (see figure). Fig. 8) provided that the alignment element 20 sweeps over one of the other scales ac, or f or g, when the contact device 18 is moved translationally and parallel to the first longitudinal profile 14 to set a desired angle.

[0065] The distance between the second bodies K2.1 and K2.2 can be set by a corresponding arrangement of the second contact elements 22, e.g. in the form of pins, in the bores 19 of the contact device 18.

[0066] A starting position is provided for contact device 18. For the representation according to Fig. 9 means that in its initial position, the contact device 18 is positioned with respect to the first longitudinal profile 14 such that the second reference point II lies exactly on the perpendicular S, which is directed towards the surface 14-O of the first longitudinal profile 14 at the location of its first reference point I. Accordingly, the connecting line 27 is then coincident with this perpendicular S, so that the angle α assumes the value zero.

[0067] Positioning the contact device 18 in its initial position is carried out, for example, in the case that the second bodies K 2.1 and K 2.2 are to be aligned with their longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first body K1.

[0068] Finally, it should be noted that the Fig.Figure 9 shows only a part or section of the first longitudinal profile 14 or the contact device 18, whereby further second bodies K2 could be provided on an extended part of this – running to the right in the plane of the drawing. The first body K1 is, for example, the handrail of a railing, while the second bodies K2 could each be crossbars or pickets of such a railing.

[0069] Accordingly, with the present invention, for example, railings having a large number of such crossbars or pickets can be manufactured in a simple manner and with little effort, even if these crossbars or pickets are to be attached to a handrail at an oblique angle.

Claims

[1] Device (10) for aligning a plurality of bodies relative to each other, comprising an elongated positioning element (12), a first longitudinal profile (14) with a defined first reference point (I), wherein the first longitudinal profile (14) is fixedly arranged adjacent to the positioning element (12) and at least one first contact element (16) can be attached to the first longitudinal profile (14) at a selected position at a predetermined distance to the first reference point (I), an elongated contact device (18) with a defined second reference point (II) and with an alignment element (20), wherein the contact device (18) can be arranged parallel to the first longitudinal profile (14) and at least a predetermined distance (A1) thereto, wherein at least a second contact element (22) can be attached to the contact device (18) at a selected position, namely at a distance to the second reference point (II) which corresponds to the predetermined distance between the first contact element (16) and the first reference point (I), and a scale device (24) which has at least one scale (ag) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (18L) of the contact device (18) with at least one angular division, wherein the scale device (24) is positioned such that its distance with respect to the first longitudinal profile (14) is unchanging, wherein the contact device (18) is translationally displaceable and parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14) and the alignment element (20) is brought into conformity with a selected angular division of a scale (ag) of the scale device (24) such that a connecting line (27) which runs in a straight line between the first reference point (I) and the second reference point (II) forms a predetermined angle (α) with a perpendicular (S) which is directed towards a surface (14-O) of the first longitudinal profile (14) at the location of its first reference point (I) in accordance with the selected angular division. [2] Device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by, that a first body (K1) can be attached to the positioning element (12), and that a second body (K2.1; K2.2) can be attached to the first and second contact elements (16; 22) such that the first body (K1) and the second body (K2.1; K2.2) are aligned relative to each other by the predetermined angle (α) when the alignment element (20) of the contact device (18) is brought into alignment translationally and parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14) by moving it in accordance with an angular division of a scale (ag) of the scale device (24) assigned to this angle. [3] Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that the contact device (18) can be brought into a starting position in which the connecting line (27) is coincident with the perpendicular (S) to the surface (14-O) of the first longitudinal profile (14) at the location of its first reference point (I), so that the predetermined angle (α) between the connecting line (27) and the perpendicular (S) is equal to zero. [4] Device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one sliding element (28) is provided, wherein the contact device (18) can be received in the sliding element (28) and is thereby displaceable parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14). [5] Device (10) according to claim 4, characterized by, that the sliding element (28) has at least one contact block (30) consisting of low-friction plastic or roller elements (32), wherein the roller elements (32) or the contact block (30) are each in contact with the contact device (18), so that the contact device (18) is longitudinally displaceable against only a low coefficient of friction. [6] Device (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by a frame device (34) to which the positioning element (12), the first longitudinal profile (14) and the scale device (24) can be attached, wherein the frame device (34) has at least a second longitudinal profile (36) which can be positioned parallel to the first longitudinal profile (14) and at least a predetermined distance (A1) thereto, wherein the at least one sliding element (28) can be attached to the second longitudinal profile (36). [7] Device (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by, that the positioning element (12), the first longitudinal profile (14), the scale device (24) and the sliding element (28) can be attached to a fastening device (38) in the form of an assembly table. [8] Device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the scale device (24) has a longitudinal extent (L) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14), wherein a scale (ag) in the direction of the longitudinal extent (L) of the scale device (24) has a plurality of angular divisions, each corresponding to a predetermined angle formed between the connecting line (27) extending between the first and second contact element (16; 22) and the perpendicular (S) to the surface (14-0) of the first longitudinal profile (14), wherein the angular divisions are each provided with labels corresponding to individual angular specifications. [9] Device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the alignment element (20) of the contact device (18) can be fixed at a selected angle division of the scale device (24), wherein the selected angle division is assigned to a predetermined angle enclosed by the connecting line (27) between the first reference point (I) and the second reference point (II) with the perpendicular (S) to the surface (14-O) of the first longitudinal profile (14) at the location of its first reference point (I). [10] Device (10) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the alignment element (20) can be clamped to the scale device (24) at the location of a selected angle division. [11] Device (10) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by , that the alignment element (20) can be fixed to the scale device (24) by magnetic force. [12] Device (10) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by , that the scale device (24) is formed in the form of a plate (25), wherein the individual angular divisions of the scale device (24) are each formed by holes (44). [13] Device (10) according to claim 12, characterized by , that the alignment element (20) is designed in the form of an elongated hole (21) whose longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (18L) of the contact device (18), wherein the alignment element (20) is located at a free end of the contact device (18). [14] Device (10) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by, that the scale device (24) has a width extension (B) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14), wherein the scale device (24) has a plurality of scales (ag) in the direction of its width extension (B), each having a predetermined distance to the first reference point (I) of the first longitudinal profile (14) and running parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14). [15] Device (10) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized by, that the scale device (24) has a zero point (NP), wherein virtual support lines (42) extend from the zero point (NP) at an angle to the perpendicular (S) to the surface (14-O) of the first longitudinal profile (14) in the direction of the contact device (18), wherein the intersection points of the support lines with a scale on them define an angular division, corresponding to predetermined angles between the connecting line (27) that runs between the first and second reference points (I, II) and the perpendicular (S) to the surface (14-O) of the first longitudinal profile (14). [16] Device (10) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by, that the scale device (24) is designed in the form of a cylinder which is rotatable about its longitudinal axis and is arranged with its longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14), wherein the majority of the angular divisions are provided in a spiral shape on the outer circumferential surface of the cylinder. [17] Device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the contact device (18) can be arranged at variable distances to the first longitudinal profile (14) and perpendicular to it. [18] Method for aligning a plurality of bodies (K1; K2.1, K2.2) relative to each other, comprising the steps: - Attaching a first body (K1) to an elongated positioning element (12), - Providing a first longitudinal profile (14) with a defined first reference point (I) adjacent to the positioning element (12), wherein at least one first contact element (16) can be attached to the first longitudinal profile (14) at a selected position, - Providing a contact device (18) with a defined second reference point (II) parallel to the first longitudinal profile (14) and at least a predetermined distance (A1) from the first longitudinal profile (14), wherein the contact device (18) is translationally displaceable and parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14), wherein at least a second contact element (22) can be attached to the contact device (18) at a selected position, namely at a distance from the second reference point (II) which corresponds to the predetermined distance between the first contact element (16) and the first reference point (I), - Applying a second body (K2.1; K2.2) to the first contact element (16) and to the second contact element (22), wherein the contact device (18) is moved translationally and parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14) such that the second body (K2.1, K2.2) is thereby aligned at a predetermined angle (α) relative to the first body (K1). [19] Method according to claim 18, characterized by, that a scale device (24) having at least one scale (ag) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (18L) of the contact device (18) with at least one angular division is provided at a fixed distance with respect to the first longitudinal profile (14), wherein when the contact device (18) is moved parallel to the longitudinal axis (14L) of the first longitudinal profile (14), an alignment element (20) provided on the contact device (18) is brought into conformity with a selected angular division of a scale (ag) of the scale device (24), such that a connecting line (27) extending in a straight line between the first reference point (I) and the second reference point (II) is connected to a perpendicular (S) directed at a surface (14-O) of the first longitudinal profile (14) at the location of its first reference point (I), forming the predetermined angle (α) by which the first body (K1) is relative to the second body (K2.1; K2.2) is aligned, in accordance with the selected angle division.

Images