Card holder for holding at least one card

Abstract

A card holder (1), in particular a wallet, for holding at least one card (2, 2'), in particular a card (2, 2') corresponding to a credit-card format, comprising - a receiving device (3) with a receiving opening (4) and an interior space (5), wherein at least one card (2, 2') can be received, in particular in its entirety, in the interior space (5) via the receiving opening (4), - at least one movably mounted ejecting means (7), which is arranged in the interior space (5), and - at least one movably mounted actuating means (8), which is at least partly mechanically coupled to the ejecting means (7), wherein, by virtue of an actuating movement (9) of the actuating means (8) relative to the receiving device (3) from a starting position (10) to a dispensing position (11), at least one card (2, 2') arranged in the receiving device (3) can be moved by the ejecting means (7) at least partly out of the interior space (5) via the receiving opening (4).

Description

[0001] Card holder for holding at least one card

[0002] The invention relates to a card holder for holding at least one card, in particular a card corresponding to a credit card format. Such card holders are sometimes also referred to as wallets or card wallets, devices which are known in principle from the prior art. In known card holders, an actuating movement of an actuating means enables the linear ejection of cards held in the card holder.

[0003] The invention is based on the objective of providing a card holder for holding at least one card, in particular a card corresponding to a credit card format, which enables the user to operate it comfortably and easily and prevents disturbing noises while carrying and / or operating the card holder.

[0004] The problem is solved by a card holder for holding at least one card according to claim 1. The dependent claims relate to possible embodiments of the card holder.

[0005] The invention relates to a card holder, in particular a wallet, for holding at least one card, in particular a card corresponding to a credit card format, comprising a receiving device with a receiving opening and an interior space, wherein at least one card, in particular completely, can be received into the interior space via the receiving opening. In other words, the receiving device forms at least partially, preferably predominantly, and particularly preferably completely, a cavity into which at least one card, in particular a plurality of cards, can be received. The at least one card to be received can, for example, be a card corresponding to a standardized format, such as a credit card format, which comprises a receiving device with a receiving opening and an interior space, wherein at least one card, in particular completely, can be received into the interior space via the receiving opening.The interior of the card holder can be configured, for example, to accommodate at least two cards, preferably at least four cards, and most preferably at least seven cards, wherein the cards are particularly credit card-sized. The cards held in the interior can directly touch adjacent cards, eliminating the need for individual card pockets within the interior. This results in better space utilization and allows for more cards to be held than if individual card pockets were provided. Optionally, the opening can be dimensioned such that at least two, preferably at least four, more preferably at least six, and most preferably at least seven cards can be inserted through it simultaneously.For example, all cards located inside the interior can be inserted or removed through the receiving opening simultaneously or at least section by section.

[0006] Furthermore, the card holder has at least one ejector device arranged in the interior and movably mounted. Preferably, the ejector device can be mounted, in particular directly or indirectly, rotatably about an axis on, i.e., in or on, the receiving device. Alternatively, the ejector device can perform a linear ejection movement or an ejection movement that includes linear and rotary components. For example, in a first movement segment, a movement, in particular exclusively rotary, is performed, and in a further movement segment, a movement, in particular exclusively linear, is performed. Optionally, the ejector device can perform a movement that is carried out at least section by section about a first axis of rotation and at least section by section about a second axis of rotation. The ejector device can also, for example, perform a movement that has translational and rotational components, e.g.,This can be achieved by means of a cam track. Finally, an embodiment is also possible in which the ejector mechanism performs a purely linear movement. The ejector mechanism can be made of plastic or metal, at least partially, preferably predominantly, and particularly preferably entirely.

[0007] Furthermore, the card holder has at least one actuating means that is mechanically coupled to the ejector at least partially and movably mounted, wherein, by performing an actuating movement of the actuating means relative to the receiving device from a starting position to an output position, at least one card arranged in the receiving device can be moved at least partially out of the interior by means of the ejector means via the receiving opening. Preferably, all cards located in the interior are moved out of the receiving opening at least partially during the execution of the actuating movement.

[0008] Optionally, the card holder's receiving opening can be temporarily closed by means of a movable locking device that is mechanically coupled to the actuating device, at least partially. In its closed position, the locking device can close the receiving opening at least partially, preferably predominantly, and particularly preferably completely. At least partial closure means that the locking device prevents a card held inside from being moved out, or that the card is geometrically trapped inside by the locking device.The card holder comprises, for example, a clamping device with a clamping means, wherein the clamping means is movably mounted on the receiving device between at least one card-holding position (which clamps at least one card received in the interior) and at least one card-release position (which releases at least one card received in the interior), and is mechanically coupled to the actuating means at least partially. The mechanical coupling results in a movement of the clamping means that is at least partially predefined, depending on the position and / or orientation of the actuating means.

[0009] The starting position can be an end position of the ejector. Alternatively or additionally, the starting position can be located within a position range that covers a sub-area of ​​the ejector's movement range, extending from a first end position to one of these end positions, particularly directly adjacent to or extending from this end position, and comprising a maximum of 25%, preferably 15%, particularly preferably 5% of the total movement.

[0010] Preferably, the main base area of ​​the card holder does not change between the initial position and the dispensing position of the actuating device; that is, no element of the card holder moves, in particular no pivots, beyond the main base area of ​​the card holder, especially the receiving device. Alternatively, an actuating movement of the actuating device can cause it to project beyond the main base area of ​​the card holder or to move out of the main base area of ​​the card holder as it exists in the initial position. Thus, in the initial position, the actuating device can project within the main base area of ​​the card holder, especially the receiving device, and in the dispensing position, it can project out of the main base area of ​​the card holder, especially the receiving device.

[0011] It is possible that the clamping means, in particular exclusively, is rotatably mounted about a clamping means axis. Preferably, the clamping means, in particular exclusively, is rotatably mounted on the receiving device. For example, the clamping means is rotatably mounted on the receiving device at least partially, preferably predominantly, and most preferably exclusively. "Exclusively rotatable" means that the clamping means does not perform any linear movements relative to the actuating means and / or the receiving device, but is rotated about a rotational axis that is fixed or constant relative to the actuating means and / or the receiving device. The clamping means can, for example, be arranged at least partially, preferably predominantly, and most preferably completely, within a volume defined by the receiving device, i.e.,The clamping means must not project beyond the contour defined by the card holder, and in particular not beyond the contour defined by the receiving device. This allows the clamping means, in both its release position and its clamping position, to be arranged within a volume limited by the receiving device and / or by components of the card holder (excluding the clamping means). Alternatively, the clamping means can perform a linear movement, at least partially, preferably predominantly, and especially preferably exclusively, between its card-holding position and its card-release position.

[0012] The release position of the clamping element means that the clamping element has no contact with a card held in the card holder, i.e., that there is no clamping effect between the clamping element and the at least one card held in the card holder. In other words, in the release position of the clamping element, the clamping effect of the clamping element may be non-existent or so weak that, if the opening of the card holder is oriented towards the Earth's center of gravity, particularly without any impulse being applied to the card holder, a card held in the card holder falls out of the card holder due to gravity. For example, during the release state of the clamping element, there may be a gap between the clamping element and the card held in the card holder, or the card may be arranged with play in the card holder.

[0013] It is possible that the clamping means has a clamping section for contact with at least one card to be clamped and at least one actuating section for, in particular, direct contact with a counter-contact section of the actuating means, wherein contact between the counter-contact section on the actuating means and the at least one actuating section on the clamping means displaces, or is displaced, the clamping section into the card holding position. A clamping element can, for example, be arranged or formed on the clamping section. In the case of a clamping element formed on the clamping section, the clamping element can form a component of the clamping section, and thus of the clamping means, particularly one made of a single material. The clamping element can, for example, be elastic. For example, the clamping element is designed as an elastomer and / or as a spring.The clamping element exhibits a spring-like property during the intended operation of the card holder. For example, the clamping element consists at least partially or at least in sections of a plastic and / or silicone. It is possible that the clamping element is connected to the clamping device by force, form, and / or material bonding. For example, the clamping element is made of felt or a woven material, or comprises felt or a woven material.

[0014] The clamping means preferably comprises a first actuating section and at least one second actuating section, wherein, by means of, in particular, direct, contact between the at least one counter-contact section on the actuating means and the first and second actuating sections of the clamping means, the clamping means or the at least one clamping section of the clamping means is moved into a card-holding position. For example, the actuating means comprises a single counter-contact section which, depending on its positioning relative to the clamping means, in a first position, in particular exclusively, contacts the first actuating section and in a second position, in particular exclusively, contacts the second actuating section, such that in each case, i.e., in both positions, the clamping means is moved into a card-holding position.Optionally, the actuating means can have or comprise a first counter-contact section and at least a second counter-contact section, wherein in a first relative position of actuating means and clamping means, in particular exclusively, the first counter-contact section is in contact with the first actuating section and in a second relative position of clamping means and actuating means, in particular exclusively, the second counter-contact section is in contact with the second actuating section, wherein in both relative positions the clamping means or its clamping section is or is moved into a card-holding position.In a further optional embodiment, the clamping means can have a single or at least a first actuating section which, depending on the relative position of the clamping means and the actuating means, is in contact with a first and at least a second counter-contact section of the actuating means, wherein in both relative positions the clamping means or its clamping section is or is moved into a card-holding position.

[0015] It is possible for the clamping element to be designed as a lever rotatable about a pivot axis, the pivot axis being located between the at least one actuating section and the clamping section or contact section. In other words, all actuating sections of the clamping element are located on a first side of the pivot axis, and the clamping section is located on a second side of the pivot axis opposite the first side. Preferably, no actuating section of the clamping element is located between the pivot axis and the clamping section. In an exemplary embodiment, the pivot axis is located within the volume of the clamping element.

[0016] The clamping element can, for example, be arranged or formed at a first end, in particular at a first longitudinal end, of the clamping element, and the actuating section at a second end, in particular at a longitudinal end, of the clamping element opposite the first end. The clamping element can, for example, have an elongated shape, wherein at least one actuating section and / or at least one clamping section is arranged or formed as a protrusion perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the clamping element. Preferably, the at least one actuating element and / or the at least one clamping section is protruded towards the interior or has a protrusion pointing towards the interior.

[0017] It is possible for the ejector device to have at least one actuation area for contact with at least one counter-contact area of ​​the actuating device. For example, the actuation area may form an integral part of the ejector device and / or the counter-contact area an integral part of the actuating device. Alternatively, the actuation area may form a separate component that is attached to the ejector device, particularly by means of a rigid connection, or the counter-contact area may form a separate component that is attached to the actuating device, particularly by means of a rigid connection. Alternatively or additionally, the ejector device may have a curved shape, at least in sections. Thus, it is possible for the ejector device to have a first straight section and a further section at an end of the ejector device opposite the straight section.Preferably, a rotation axis of the ejector means, e.g., in the form of a bearing recess, is arranged between at least the predominant part of the straight section and the remaining section. Optionally, the actuation area of ​​the ejector means can then be mechanically connected, either directly or indirectly (e.g., via a third body), to the counter-contact area of ​​the actuation means.

[0018] It is possible that the ejector means has a taper and / or a smaller cross-sectional area and / or a smaller transverse extent towards its end encompassing the wider area and / or its end encompassing the operating area than at its area intended for pushing out the at least one card located inside.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the ejector means has a convex surface shape at its actuation area; for example, the actuation area has a pronounced curvature around a line parallel to the axis of rotation of the ejector means. This ensures that continuous contact or smooth movement is maintained during the ongoing contact of the actuation area with the counter-contact area of ​​the actuation means, even when the ejector means is rotating. In other words, the counter-contact area on the actuation side can move across the convex surface shape of the ejector means during the relative movement of the actuation means and the receiving device.

[0020] It is possible that the ejector means has at least one actuation area for contact with at least one counter-contact area of ​​the actuating means. The counter-contact area can, for example, have a curved surface or contour shape, i.e., the contact point of the counter-contact area can move across the actuation area of ​​the ejector means.

[0021] The ejector device may, for example, have a curved or bent shape, at least in sections, particularly along its longitudinal axis.

[0022] The ejector mechanism can, for example, include a stepped section for pushing out the at least one card held inside while the card holder or ejector mechanism is moved into the dispensing position. The actuation area associated with the counter-contact area can be arranged or formed at an end region of the ejector mechanism opposite the stepped section.

[0023] It is possible for the ejector means to have an L-shaped form, with the actuation area being arranged or formed on a short leg of the L. For example, the L-shaped ejector means has an internal angle between the short and the long leg of the L that is between 70° and 170°, preferably between 80° and 165°, particularly preferably between 100° and 160°, more preferably between 110° and 160°, most preferably between 120° and 150°, and further preferably between 130° and 140°.

[0024] It is possible that the actuation area of ​​the ejector means has a convex contact surface for contact with the counter-contact area of ​​the actuating means.

[0025] It is possible that the actuation area has a curved shape, in particular a circular arc shape, the surface of which extends over an angle of 20° to 70°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 35° to 55°, and most preferably 40° to 50°. Preferably, the surface of the actuation area has a circular arc shape in cross-section. Optionally, the actuation area can have an arc shape other than a circle, at least partially, and preferably predominantly.

[0026] For example, the ejector means has an L-shape. Preferably, a contour of the ejector means facing the interior of the card holder has at least a portion, preferably predominantly, and most preferably completely, a concave curved shape that corresponds to the outer edge of a credit or debit card. That is, for example, the curved shape of the ejector means facing the interior has a section with a radius of 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm, preferably 2.50 mm to 4.0 mm, particularly preferably 3.00 mm to 3.40 mm, and most preferably 3.12 mm to 3.23 mm. A side opposite the curved contour pointing towards the interior, or a side pointing away from the interior, particularly at the longitudinal height of the curved contour pointing towards the interior, can have a radius or curvature greater than 3.20 mm, preferably 3.50 mm, particularly preferably 4.0 mm, more preferably 5.0 mm, most preferably 10 mm.Preferably, the outward curvature has a larger radius than the inward curvature of the ejector. Alternatively or additionally, the outward curvature of the ejector, or the boundary of the ejector in the outward-facing area, can be set back relative to the longitudinal extent of a straight section of the ejector.

[0027] The ejector means can, for example, have at least one actuation area for contact with at least one counter-contact area of ​​the actuating means, and the clamping means can have at least one actuation section for contact with at least one counter-contact section of the actuating means, wherein the at least one actuation area and / or the at least one counter-contact area are arranged, at least in the initial position, within a first half of the card holder, and the at least one actuation section and / or the at least one counter-contact section are arranged, at least in the initial position, within a second half of the card holder. For example, (a) the actuation area and / or the counter-contact area and (b) the actuation section and / or the counter-contact section are arranged or formed in two different longitudinal halves, i.e., two halves located on different sides of the central longitudinal axis of the card holder.It is possible that all counter-contact sections are arranged or formed on a first half, in particular on a first longitudinal half, of the actuating means, and all counter-contact areas on a second longitudinal half of the actuating section. The longitudinal halves can be understood as halves in the main extension plane of the card holder or in a plane parallel to the main extension plane of the cards received inside. Preferably, at least one actuating section and the at least one actuating area are arranged in a common section that is located within two-thirds, preferably within half, particularly preferably within one-third, and particularly preferably within one-quarter, of an elevation surface section of the longitudinal extension of the card holder, in particular the receiving device, opposite the opening.

[0028] The card holder can, for example, be configured so that the clamping element is in a card-holding position when the ejector element is in the dispensing position. In this position, the at least one actuating section of the clamping element is in contact with the at least one counter-contact section of the actuating element. This ensures that the cards held in the card holder are clamped when they are in a dispensing position, particularly a fanned-out position, i.e., when they have been ejected by the ejector element into a position extending out of the receiving opening. This prevents the cards from accidentally, and especially completely, falling out of the interior of the card holder.If a person wishes to remove a card located in the dispensing position from the card holder, a pulling and / or pushing force must be applied to the at least one card to be removed, which is greater than the holding clamping force applied to the at least one card by the clamping means.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, the card holder can be configured so that the clamping element is in a card-holding position when the ejector element is in its home position. This ensures a defined and immovable positioning of the at least one card held in the interior during the card holder's home position. The home-position-side card-holding position and the ejection-position-side card-holding position of the card holder can include an identical positioning of the clamping element, particularly relative to the receiving device.

[0030] It is possible that different or identical clamping forces act on the at least one card held in the interior during the card holder's starting position and during the card holder's output position. For example, a greater clamping force may act on the at least one card held in the interior during the card holder's starting position (i.e., when the cards are parked or not being removed) than during the card holder's output position (i.e., when the at least one card is partially protruding from the interior). This has the advantage of preventing cards from falling out and / or moving within the interior during the parked or non-used position. For example, rattling noises are prevented.While users are generally more attentive during the conscious removal of cards from the card holder – i.e., during the dispensing position – the holding force of the clamping mechanism can be reduced in the dispensing position compared to the starting position. This also facilitates easier removal of the cards, which are held in place by a clamping force and secured against accidental ejection.

[0031] It is possible that the clamping means clamps at least one card located in the card holder along a longitudinal edge in both the starting position and the ejection position. Preferably, the clamping means applies clamping force to or touches the at least one card located in the card holder along a longitudinal edge region of the card during both the starting position and the ejection position, wherein the longitudinal edge region corresponds to up to 95%, preferably up to 90%, particularly preferably up to 85%, further preferably up to 80%, and most preferably up to 75% of the card's length, measured from the end of the card located inside the holder that faces the ejector means. The card's length refers to its length along its longitudinal edge.At least one card can have a rectangular base shape, with the length of the long side corresponding to this rectangular base shape.

[0032] The card holder is designed, for example, such that the clamping element is in a card release position when the ejector element is in an intermediate position between the dispensing position and the starting position. This ensures that at least one card located inside the holder is clamped by the clamping element in both the parked or unused position (i.e., in particular, when completely inside the holder) and the intended dispensing position (i.e., when pushed at least maximally out of the holder by the ejector element), thus preventing movement, particularly due to gravity, of at least one card. During a movement phase, especially in the intermediate position between the starting position or the parked / unused position, the clamping element prevents the card from moving.In the non-use position, i.e., in particular when the card is entirely within the interior, and in the intended ejection position, i.e., the position at which the ejector pushes the at least one card to its maximum extent, the at least one card is freely movable within the interior, and no clamping force is applied to this at least one card by the clamping device. Thus, in the card release position of the clamping device, the at least one card can fall out of the interior, provided the receiving opening is oriented appropriately towards the ground. However, during the return movement of the actuating device from the ejection position to the starting position, and thus during the return movement of the ejector, the card release position also allows the at least one card to move back to its starting position or into a parked and / or non-use position within the interior due to gravity.Card holders in the prior art, for example, have clamping means which always exert a clamping force on at least one card; the disadvantage of this is that the cards, once pushed out by means of an ejector, typically have to be pushed back manually or by an external force into the starting position or into a park and / or non-use position - due to the necessary overcoming of the existing clamping force.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the card holder may be configured, for example, such that (a) the clamping means is in a card-holding position when the ejector means is in the output position, (b) the clamping means is in a card-holding position when the ejector means is in the home position, and (c) the clamping means is in a card-release position when the ejector means is in an intermediate position between the output position and the home position. This enables a card holder in which, even when the card holder is shaken, there is no relative movement of the at least one card located in the interior with respect to the elements of the card holder that define the interior, even during the home position, i.e., during the parked or non-used position.This prevents rattling caused by cards loosely arranged in the card holder striking the interior walls. Furthermore, it prevents cards from falling out of the interior, for example, due to gravity, when pushed out into the dispensing position. Finally, it also ensures that the cards automatically return to their starting position, i.e., the parked and / or unused position, due to shear forces acting upon them.

[0034] The ejector device can, for example, be rotatably mounted about, and in particular exclusively on, one axis. For example, the ejector device is rotatably mounted on the receiving device. The ejector device can thus be mounted in such a way that it does not perform any linear movements. The axis of rotation of the ejector device and the axis of rotation of the clamping device can, for example, be aligned parallel to each other.

[0035] The receiving opening can optionally be temporarily closed by means of a movable locking device that is mechanically coupled to the actuating device, at least in sections. The locking device can be movable between an open position, in which a card can pass through the receiving opening or be inserted into or removed from the interior, and a closed position, in which a card cannot pass through the receiving opening. In the closed position, the locking device can preferably be flush with at least one body defining the outer contour of the card holder. For example, the locking device is flush with the receiving device and / or the actuating device. In other words, the locking device can form a continuous or stepless transition to the receiving device and / or the actuating device during the closed position.The sealing element can be configured to completely close the receiving opening, i.e., a flat section of the sealing element closes the receiving opening of the card holder through which the cards are inserted during intended use. Preferably, in the closed position, the sealing element forms a closed surface with adjacent sections of the card holder.

[0036] It is possible that the closure means is U-shaped, with a first free leg of the U being assigned to a first storage section of the receiving device and a second free leg of the U being assigned to a second storage section of the receiving device, and the central connecting area connecting the two free legs of the U extending between the first and second storage sections or spanning a short side of cards inserted into the card holder.

[0037] The closure element can, for example, have a curved shape on its outer surface, at least in sections. In particular, a curved, especially sloping, surface is formed in the area of ​​the U-shaped legs of the closure element, so that, in the assembled state of the closure element, a continuous or edge-free transition is enabled between the closure element and the lateral areas of the receiving device.

[0038] It is possible that at least one longitudinal side, and in particular both longitudinal sides, of the locking device has a sharp or angular edge (e.g., radius less than 5 mm, preferably less than 3.5 mm, particularly preferably less than 2.5 mm, more preferably less than 1.5 mm, most preferably less than 0.5 mm) and / or a side surface of the locking device oriented perpendicular to the outwardly facing main surface (central main extension surface) of the locking device. The side surface can, for example, be flat and, in the closed position, lie flat against an interior-facing surface of the actuating device, in particular directly. Optionally, the locking device can have another, in particular flat, side surface on the side opposite the actuating device, which is preferably oriented perpendicular to the main surface of the locking device or has a sharp or angular edge.A square edge is formed at the transition to the main surface of the locking element. In the closed position, the further side surface can, in particular, lie flat against a surface section of the receiving device. Preferably, in the closed position, the further side surface lies flat against a surface section of the receiving device that forms the interior, or that is directly adjacent to the interior, or that faces the interior.

[0039] Preferably, the locking device has on at least one of its free U-legs a counter-contact area for a pre-tensioning device arranged on, i.e. in or on, the receiving device.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the actuating element is mounted linearly movable on the receiving device, wherein the movement of the actuating element in a first direction is limited by a section or stop of the receiving device, and the movement of the actuating element in a direction opposite to the first direction is limited by the locking element or by the fastening of the locking element to the receiving device. In other words, the movement of the actuating element relative to the receiving device is limited in at least one direction by a stop formed by the locking element. Thus, the locking element has a dual function: it serves to temporarily close the receiving opening and also to limit the movement of the actuating element in at least one direction.Because the locking device is rotatably mounted on the receiving device and the rotatability of the locking device is defined and predetermined, the locking device limits the movement of the actuating device.

[0041] In other words, it may be provided that the actuating element, in particular by means of its retaining structure, is first threaded or inserted into a retaining structure or into at least one bearing rail on the receiving device in a linearly movable manner, and then the locking element is attached to the receiving device. For example, the locking element is attached to the receiving device via bearing elements (e.g., a bearing pin), thus capturing the actuating element on the receiving device or attaching it in a captive and movable manner.

[0042] In general, the actuating element can perform a linear movement and / or a rotary movement during its movement between the starting position and the output position, or it can be mounted on the receiving device in a linearly movable or rotaryly movable manner. This can be provided regardless of whether the card holder has a locking mechanism or not. If the card holder does not include a locking mechanism, for example, the cards falling out can be prevented by a retaining element projecting into the interior and clamping any inserted cards, such as an elastomer, rubber, or felt, and / or at least temporarily held in place by a clamping element that can be moved into a release position and / or a clamping position.

[0043] The movement of the actuating element in a further direction can be limited, for example, by means of contact between a section of the actuating element and a section of the receiving device, or by contact between an actuating-side section (e.g., the counter-contact area) and the actuating area of ​​the ejector element, wherein the ejector element's movement is limited and thus, after reaching a movement-limited position of the ejector element, further movement of the actuating element is inhibited or limited by the contact of the actuating-side section with the movement-limited ejector element section. Preferably, a pre-tensioning device can be provided that pre-tensions the closing element into an open position releasing the receiving opening or into a closed position closing the receiving opening, in particular by means of magnetic forces.The preloading device allows the locking element to be moved into the open position when not subjected to external forces, provided no other element, such as contact between the locking element and the actuating device, is involved. Moving the locking element from the open to the closed position requires the application of a force, which also acts against the preloading force of the preloading device, thus preloading it accordingly. In other words, the actuating force applied when closing the locking element also preloads the preloading device. If the locking element is driven by direct or indirect contact with the actuating device, a locking device can prevent the actuating device from moving back due to the preloading device.In particular, the locking device requires a release force to release the locking state that is greater than the preload force of the preloading device.

[0044] The preloading element can, for example, comprise a spring or an elastomer. Preferably, the preloading element has an elongated shape, with one longitudinal axis of the preloading element being oriented perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the locking element. For example, one longitudinal axis of the preloading element runs parallel to a longitudinal side wall of the receiving device.

[0045] For example, the closure means has an actuation region for contact with a counter-contact region of the actuation means, wherein contact between the counter-contact region on the actuation means and the actuation region on the closure means allows the closure means to be moved or driven into a closed position that closes the receiving opening and / or into an open position that releases the receiving opening. The force applied to the card holder via the actuation means by means of muscle force leads to a relative movement of the actuation means to the receiving device and further to a relative movement of the closure means to the receiving device. Thus, by the movement of the actuation means relative to the receiving device, a closure means that is movably, in particular rotatably, mounted on the receiving device can be forced or driven into a predefined movement. In other words, by applying a force, e.g.,A compressive force is used to overcome a preload force of a preloading device acting indirectly or directly on the locking device and opposing the applied force, and to move the locking device into an open position or a closed position.

[0046] The receiving device can, for example, have a prismatic basic shape, in particular a cuboid basic shape, and the actuating element can be designed as a planar body. Preferably, a main area of ​​the actuating element has a size that corresponds to at least 35%, more preferably at least 50%, particularly preferably at least 75%, most preferably at least 85%, and more preferably entirely, to the size of a main area of ​​the receiving device and / or a card, e.g., a credit card, that can be inserted into the interior of the card holder. Such a large-area actuating element facilitates its activation. It is possible for the actuating element to have a disc- or plate-like shape. Preferably, the main areas of the actuating element and the receiving device have at least approximately the same, and in particular identical, size.It is possible for the receiving device to have a disc- or plate-like base section. A frame section, particularly a U-shaped one, can be attached to or formed on this disc- or plate-like base section of the receiving device. This means, for example, that the frame section is an integral part of the disc- or plate-like base section. Alternatively, the frame section can form a separate component that is connected to the disc- or plate-like base section by a force-fit, material-fit, and / or form-fit connection. For example, the interior space is formed as the space between the actuating element and the base section, with the frame section being arranged or formed between the actuating element and the base section. The actuating element is preferably connected to the base section exclusively via the frame section or movably mounted on the frame section.

[0047] The actuating element can, for example, be arranged completely within a main extension area of ​​the receiving device in its initial position, particularly in a rest position (i.e., in a parked and / or non-used position), whereas in the dispensing position, the actuating element protrudes at least partially from a main extension area of ​​the receiving device. Thus, in the initial position, the rest position, or the closed position, the actuating element cannot protrude beyond a main extension area defined by the receiving device. In the dispensing position, the actuating element can protrude at least partially from or extend beyond a main extension area defined by the receiving device. Therefore, in the initial state, i.e., in a parked and / or non-used state, the card holder has a more compact form than in the dispensing state.

[0048] The actuating means can, for example, project beyond a main extension surface of the receiving device in at least one position moved from a starting position, in particular a rest position, relative to the receiving device, wherein a surface section of the actuating means projecting beyond the main extension surface of the receiving device corresponds to at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, particularly preferably at least 35%, most preferably at least 50% of the main extension surface of the actuating means.

[0049] For example, during its actuation movement from the starting position to a dispensing position, the actuating means can perform a movement in a first direction, and the at least one card moved out of the receiving opening by the ejector during this actuation movement is moved in a second direction opposite to the first direction, or the card is moved in a direction opposite to the first direction. In other words, during the actuation movement to eject the at least one card held in the card holder, the actuating means moves along a first straight line in a first direction, and the at least one card moved or pushed out of the card holder in this process also moves along this straight line, but in the opposite direction.This has the advantage of increasing the proportion of uncovered area of ​​the cards removed from the card holder, since the actuating device moves away from the removed section and thus does not cover it. Alternatively, the card holder can be configured so that the actuating device and the card being removed from the card holder move in the same direction as the actuating device when the actuating device is activated.

[0050] The actuating element can preferably be disc- or plate-shaped. Preferably, the actuating element has the basic shape of a flat cuboid, particularly with a rectangular base. The actuating element can have a first side and a side opposite the first side, and the receiving device can have a first end associated with the first side and a second end opposite the first end, wherein in the output position the distance between the first side and the first end is greater than during the starting position.

[0051] The actuating element can, for example, be mounted for linear movement at least partially, preferably exclusively. For this purpose, the actuating element can be mounted for linear movement with the receiving device; for example, the receiving device has at least one guide rail in which an engagement element of the actuating element is guided for linear movement. Optionally, the actuating element can be mounted for rotation at least partially, preferably exclusively, on the receiving device. Preferably, the actuating element is configured to perform a linear movement, preferably exclusively, while the clamping element performs a rotary movement, preferably exclusively, for its displacement between the release and clamping states.Preferably, the actuating means forms a component separate from the clamping means and is in a mechanical motion dependency with it at least sectionally, preferably predominantly, particularly preferably always, and in particular has a corresponding mechanical forced control.

[0052] The actuating means can, for example, have a retaining structure by means of which the actuating means is movably and positively mounted on a retaining structure of the receiving device, wherein the retaining structure (a) has at least partially at least one counter-contact section for at least temporary contact with at least one clamping-side actuating section and / or (b) has at least partially at least one counter-contact area for at least temporary contact with the at least one ejector-side actuating area. In other words, the structure for mounting the fastening means on the receiving device, e.g., for forming an undercut, can also at least partially perform the function of the counter-contact area and / or the counter-contact section.This structure prevents the actuating element from detaching, particularly perpendicular to the main extension plane of the card holder, and serves for temporary contact with the clamping element and / or the ejector element. It is possible that (a) the holding structure and the counter-contact section and / or (b) the holding structure and the counter-contact area are arranged or designed as a single or multi-piece element of the actuating element.

[0053] In an advantageous embodiment, the card holder has a pre-tensioning unit by means of which the clamping element can be pre-tensioned or is pre-tensioned into the card release position. Optionally, the pre-tensioning unit can pre-tension the clamping element into at least one card holding position. The pre-tensioning unit can, for example, be designed as a spring, in particular as a coil spring or disc spring, or as at least one elastomeric body. The pre-tensioning unit can, for example, form an integral, i.e., one-piece, component of the clamping element, i.e., the clamping element can be designed to be elastically deformable in certain areas. Optionally, the pre-tensioning unit can be designed as a component separate from the clamping element, e.g., as a compression spring. For example, the pre-tensioning unit can be arranged between an outer wall of the receiving device and the clamping element.

[0054] It is possible that the card holder includes a locking device by means of which the actuating element can be locked in a predefined relative position, preferably in its initial position, to the receiving device. For example, locking is achieved by means of a detent mechanism. The locking device can secure the actuating element against relative movement to the receiving device, so that the actuating element only moves relative to the receiving device after a predefined force, e.g., tensile and / or compressive force, has been exceeded. In other words, by exceeding the initial position or the holding forces of the locking device, the actuating element is displaced from its assigned initial position. This means that if forces below the release force are applied, the locking device prevents actuation of the actuating element, particularly accidental actuation.If the actuating device is mechanically coupled to or in contact with a pre-tensioned locking device and / or a pre-tensioned ejector device, the locking mechanism can also prove advantageous in that movement of the actuating device from a defined locking position cannot occur due to the pre-tensioning force of the locking device and / or the pre-tensioning force of the ejector device, since the locking force or holding force of the actuating device is higher than the pre-tensioning force of the locking device and / or the ejector device. For example, the locking device comprises a spring-loaded ball which, in its initial position, is positioned and / or oriented such that the ball can penetrate a recess, particularly one corresponding to the ball. Thus, the locking device can achieve a force-fit and / or positive-locking connection of the actuating device to the receiving device.For example, the actuating device has a receiving device for receiving the spring-loaded ball. In general, the locking device can create a friction-based and / or positive locking connection, i.e., a locking connection by means of clamping force. Preferably, the actuating device is locked or pre-tensioned in at least one end position, preferably in two end positions, by means of the locking device.

[0055] Optionally, the card holder can have a support area configured to contact a card received in the interior at a principal extent surface of the card (the principal extent surface is bounded by the long and short sides of the card and is thus perpendicular to the card thickness), wherein the support area has a contact area that corresponds to at most half, preferably at most one quarter, particularly preferably at most one eighth, particularly preferably at most one tenth, further preferably at most one twentieth, (a) of a principal extent surface of the card holder provided for receiving a card in the interior and / or (b) of a principal extent surface of a card to be received in the card holder. The principal extent surface of the card can be the area of ​​a credit card. Alternatively or additionally, the principal extent surface of the card can be, for example, 3000 mm². 2 up to 6000 mm 2 , preferably 4000 mm2 up to 5000 mm 2 , especially preferred 4300 mm 2 up to 4800 mm 2 , preferably 4500 mm 2 up to 4700 mm 2 , most preferably 4600 mm 2 up to 4650 mm 2 , amount to. For example, the bearing surface of the support area has a maximum area of ​​2500 mm². 2 preferably 1500 mm 2 , especially preferably 1000 mm 2 , preferably 700 mm 2 , preferably 500 mm 2 , and / or an area of ​​at least 10 mm 2 , preferably 75 mm 2 , especially preferably 150 mm 2 , preferably 200 mm 2 , preferably 250 mm 2For example, (a) the main area of ​​a card to be received, in particular a card corresponding to a credit card format, and / or (b) the main area of ​​an interior space of the card holder provided for receiving a card, to the contact area of ​​the support area can have a ratio in the range of 6 to 20, preferably 7.5 to 18, particularly preferably 10 to 15, most preferably 11.5 to 14, and more preferably 12 to 13.5. Due to the small contact area, the cards to be received can easily slide into the interior of the card holder by gravity. Because this reduces the contact area between the card holder and the card, low frictional resistance results during the insertion of the cards.It is advantageous that the cards are temporarily clamped in the starting position and / or in the output position by the clamping device, so that despite the low frictional resistance, the cards cannot fall out outside the starting and output position, especially due to gravity.

[0056] For example, the support area has at least one support section designed as a projection extending into the interior from the receiving device and / or the actuating means. In other words, the receiving device and / or the actuating means can have a base, with the at least one support section rising from this base, thereby reducing or completely preventing contact between the base and the card located in the interior. The projection can preferably be formed integrally with the receiving device and / or the actuating means, using the same material. The at least one support section can be designed like a slide rail. For example, the at least one support section can have a straight shape and preferably extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the card holder.

[0057] For example, the delay device includes a delaying means, wherein the delaying means applies a force, in particular a pressure force, to the actuating means, such that a delay force is present that at least partially counteracts an actuating force acting on the actuating means.

[0058] The invention is explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments in the drawings. These show:

[0059] Fig. 1 shows a perspective schematic representation of a card holder in the starting position or in the park and / or non-use position according to a first embodiment;

[0060] Fig. 2 shows a perspective schematic representation of an actuating device moved in the output position or of a card holder in the output state according to the first embodiment;

[0061] Fig. 3 shows a schematic exploded view of a card holder according to the first embodiment;

[0062] Fig. 4 shows a perspective schematic representation of an actuating element moved in the dispensing position or of a card holder in the dispensing state according to the first embodiment; Fig. 5 shows a perspective full-section view of a card holder according to Figure 4 along a longitudinal plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the card holder;

[0063] Fig. 6 shows a schematic side view of a card holder in the output state according to Figure 1;

[0064] Fig. 7 shows a schematic front view of a card holder according to Figure 6;

[0065] Fig. 8 shows a schematic exploded view of a card holder according to a second embodiment;

[0066] Figs. 9 to 11 schematic front view, side view from the left and bottom view of the underside of an actuating device according to the second embodiment;

[0067] Fig. 12 shows a perspective schematic representation of a card holder according to the second embodiment;

[0068] Fig. 13 shows a perspective detail view of detail A from Figure 12;

[0069] Fig. 14 shows a perspective schematic representation of a closure device according to a third embodiment;

[0070] Fig. 15 shows a perspective schematic representation of a storage location of a closure means on the receiving device according to a fourth embodiment;

[0071] Figs. 16 to 19 schematic representations of different states of the card holder with a transparently depicted actuating means according to a further embodiment;

[0072] Fig. 20 shows a perspective schematic representation of a card holder 1 according to a further embodiment in the dispensing position, wherein the actuating means and the closing means are shown transparently;

[0073] Fig. 21 shows a schematic view of the side of the actuating means facing the interior of the receiving device according to the embodiment shown in Figure 20;

[0074] Figs. 22 to 25 are perspective schematic drawings of the card holder according to Figure 20 with an off-center full longitudinal section, showing the movement of the actuating means from the dispensing position (Fig. 22) to the starting position (Fig. 25); Figs. 26, 27 are perspective schematic drawings of the card holder according to Figure 20 in the area of ​​its receiving opening during the dispensing position;

[0075] Fig. 28 shows a schematic top view of a card holder according to a further embodiment, wherein the actuating means has been removed from the view;

[0076] Fig. 29 shows a perspective schematic representation of the card holder according to Figure 28;

[0077] Fig. 30 shows a schematic front view of the end face of the card holder according to Figure 28, with the locking device removed from the view.

[0078] The figures show a card holder 1, in particular a wallet, for holding at least one card 2, 2'. The cards 2, 2' to be held by the card holder preferably have a credit card format. The card holder 1 comprises a receiving device 3 with a receiving opening 4 and an interior space 5, wherein at least one card 2, 2', in particular completely, can be received into the interior space 5 via the receiving opening 4. Furthermore, the card holder 1 comprises at least one ejector means 7 arranged in the interior space 5 and movably mounted. The ejector means 7 can, for example, and in particular exclusively, be rotatably mounted about a pivot axis 22, cf. arrow 55. For this purpose, the ejector means can have a bearing recess 35 which receives into a pin 36 on the receiving device side or is rotatably mounted about the latter, cf. Figure 3.Furthermore, the card holder 1 comprises at least one actuating means 8, which is mechanically coupled to the ejector means 7 at least partially and is movably mounted, wherein, by performing an actuating movement 9 (see Figure 17) of the actuating means 8 relative to the receiving device 3 from a starting position 10 to an output position 11, at least one card 2, 2' arranged in the receiving device 3 can be moved at least partially out of the interior 5 by means of the ejector means 7 via the receiving opening 4. In other words, the at least one card 2, 2' can be pushed out of the card holder 2 at least partially by means of the ejector means 7. The ejector means 7 can have a stepped or graduated section 37, so that when the cards 2, 2' are pushed out by the ejector means 7, they are arranged in a graduated shape.

[0079] Furthermore, the card holder 1 comprises a clamping device 6 having a clamping means 61, wherein the clamping means 61 is movably mounted on the receiving device 3 between at least one card holding position 12, which clamps at least one card 2, 2' received in the interior 5, and at least one card release position 13, which releases at least one card 2, 2' received in the interior 5, and is mechanically coupled to the actuating means 8 at least partially. The mechanical coupling of the clamping means 61 and the ejector means 7 each with the actuating means 8 means that a relative movement of the actuating means 8, in particular relative to the receiving device 3, results in at least partial movement of the clamping means 61 and the ejector 7 relative to the receiving device 3.

[0080] The clamping element 61 can, for example, and especially exclusively, be rotatably mounted about a pivot axis 14. Preferably, the clamping element 61 is rotatably mounted on the receiving device 3. For this purpose, the receiving device 3 can include a pin that is arranged in a recess of the clamping element 61 and acts as a hinge or pivot point of the clamping element 61. Alternatively, the receiving device 3 can, as shown, have a recess in which a rotatable section, e.g., in the form of a thickening 38, of the clamping element 61 is rotatably mounted.

[0081] The clamping means 61 can, for example, have a clamping section 62 for contact with at least one card 2, 2' to be clamped and at least one actuating section 63, 64 for contact with at least one counter-contact section 81, 82 of the actuating means 8, wherein, by contact of the actuating means-side counter-contact section 81, 82 with the at least one clamping means-side actuating section 63, 64, the clamping section 62 can be moved into the card holding position 12. In particular, by contact of the actuating means 8 with the at least one actuating section 63, 64 of the clamping means 61, a targeted or predefined displacement, in particular rotation, of the clamping means 61 occurs, so that the clamping section 62 is moved in a targeted manner. The clamping means 61 is preferably designed such that it provides exclusively force-fit holding of the at least one card in the interior 5 of the card holder 1.The clamping element 61 clamps the card 2, 2' arranged in the receiving device 3 in the card-holding state or during the card-holding position 12. A clamping element 67 can, for example, be arranged or formed on the clamping section 62. Preferably, a clamping element 67 made of an elastomer, e.g., a plastic and / or silicone, can be attached to the clamping element 6 by force-fit, material-fit, and / or form-fit connection and form a clamping section 62, see Figure 8.

[0082] The clamping means 61 can, for example, have a first actuating section 63 and at least one second actuating section 64, wherein, by, in particular, alternating, contact of the at least one actuating-side counter-contact section 81, 82 with the first and second actuating sections 63, 64 of the clamping means 61, the clamping section 62 is displaced or is displaced into a card-holding position 12. Thus, for example, the first actuating section 63 can come into contact with the first counter-contact section 81, while the second actuating section 64 is not in contact with the second counter-contact section 82, and during a further state, the second actuating section 64 is in contact with the second counter-contact section 82, while the first actuating section 63 is not in contact with the first counter-contact section 64.The first actuating section 63 and the at least one second actuating section 64 are preferably spaced apart from each other on the clamping means 61. For example, the distance between the first actuating section 63 and the at least one second actuating section 64 is at least one-sixth, preferably at least one-quarter, particularly preferably at least one-third, and more preferably at least half, of the total length of the clamping means 61. Alternatively or additionally, the maximum distance between the first actuating section 63 and the at least one second actuating section is at most 90%, preferably at most 80%, particularly preferably at most 70%, further preferably at most 60%, and most preferably at most 50% of the total length of the clamping means 61. The total length of the clamping means 61 is its maximum extent along the longitudinal axis of the card holder 1.

[0083] The clamping means 61 can, for example, be designed as a lever rotatable about the axis of rotation 14, wherein the axis of rotation 14 is arranged between the at least one actuating section 63, 64 and the clamping section 62. In other words, the clamping means 61 forms a lever in the manner of a rocker arm, such that an actuating section 63 is arranged on one side of the axis of rotation 14 and at least one actuating section 63, 64, preferably all actuating sections 63, 64 of the clamping means 61, is arranged on the other side of the axis of rotation 14 (see Figures 2 and 3). Alternatively, the clamping means 61 can be designed in the manner of a trailing arm, such that the clamping section 62 and the at least one, preferably all, actuating section(s) 63, 64 are arranged or formed on a common side of the axis of rotation 14 (not shown).

[0084] It is possible that the clamping means 61 is arranged or formed at a first end, in particular at a first longitudinal end, of the clamping means 61 and at least one actuating section 63, 64 is arranged or formed at a second end of the clamping means 61 opposite the first end.

[0085] The ejector means 7 can, for example, have at least one actuation area 15 for contact with at least one counter-contact area 83 of the actuating means 8, and the clamping means 61 can have at least one actuation section 63, 64 for contact with at least one counter-contact section 83 of the actuating means 8, wherein the at least one actuation area 15 is arranged within a first half 16 of the card holder 1 and the at least one actuation section 63, 64 is arranged within a second half 17 of the card holder 1, see Figure 2. Preferably, the at least one actuation area 15 and the at least one actuation section 63, 64 are arranged in two different longitudinal halves, i.e., in two different halves of the card holder 1 separated by a longitudinal center axis of the card holder 1.The card holder 1 can, for example, be configured such that the clamping element 61 is in a card-holding position 12 when the ejector element 7 is in the output position 11. This prevents the cards 2, 2' from unintentionally falling out of the interior 5 due to gravity. Alternatively or additionally, the card holder 1 can be configured such that the clamping element 61 is in a card-holding position 12 when the ejector element 7 is in the starting position 10. This prevents movement, in particular the cards 2, 2' from falling out due to gravity, if the card holder 1 is shaken. Regardless of whether a locking element 23 is provided, a clamping element 61 in the card-holding position 12 in the starting position 10 of the card holder 1 or the actuating element 8 prevents a rattling noise when the card holder 1 is shaken.

[0086] The clamping means 61 can, for example, clamp at least one card 2, 2' located in the card holder 1 in the starting position-side card holding position 12 and in the output position-side card holding position 12 on a longitudinal edge 19 of the at least one card 2, 2'. For example, the at least one card 2, 2' located in the card holder 1 is clamped by the clamping means 61 in a longitudinal edge area 20 of the card 2, 2' during the starting position-side card holding position 12 and during the output position-side card holding position 12, wherein the longitudinal edge area 20 corresponds to up to 95%, preferably up to 90%, particularly preferably up to 85%, further preferably up to 80%, most preferably up to 75% of the length of the card 2, 2' or the total length of the card holder 1 (in the starting position 10) or length of the receiving device 3 or the length of the actuating means 8, measured from the end facing the ejector means 7.

[0087] The card holder 1 can, for example, be configured such that the clamping means 61 is in a card release position 13 when the ejector means 7 is in an intermediate position 21 between the output position 11 and the starting position 10. The intermediate position 21 can, for example, be located (a) at least within or (b) exclusively within a range of 5% to 95%, preferably 10% to 90%, particularly preferably 20% to 80%, most preferably 30% to 70% of the maximum possible travel or total travel of the ejector means 7. Figures 16 to 19 show different travel positions of the actuating means 8, with Figure 16 representing the starting position 10, Figure 18 the output position 11, and Figures 17 and 19 intermediate positions 21.

[0088] The card holder 1 can, for example, be configured such that (a) the clamping means 61 is in a card holding position 12 when the ejector means 7 is in the output position 11, and (b) the clamping means 61 is in a card holding position 12 when the ejector means 7 is in the output position 10, and (c) the clamping means 61 is in a card release position 13 when the ejector means 7 is in an intermediate position 21 between the output position 11 and the output position 10.The output position 11 of the ejector means, for example, a position in which the ejector means 7 is in its maximum possible extended state, preferably a position range between (a) its maximum possible extended state and (b) a maximum of 15%, preferably a maximum of 10%, particularly preferably a maximum of 2.5%, most preferably a maximum of 1% of the movement path preceding the maximum extended state.

[0089] The ejector means 7 can, for example, be rotatably mounted about an axis 22; preferably, the ejector means 7 is rotatably mounted on the receiving device 3. For this purpose, the receiving device 3 can have a pin 36 which interacts at least partially with a bearing recess 35 on the ejector means side, see Figure 3. Alternatively, the receiving device 3 can have a bearing recess in which an engagement area on the ejector means side is rotatably arranged (not shown).

[0090] The receiving opening 4 can, for example, be temporarily closed by means of a locking device 23 that is movably mounted and at least partially mechanically coupled, in particular positively coupled, to the actuating device 8. For example, a pre-tensioning device 24 is provided that pre-tensions the locking device 23 into an open position 25 that releases the receiving opening 4 or into a closed position 26 that closes the receiving opening 4. From the closed position 26 (or open position 25) moved or pre-tensioned by the pre-tensioning device 24, the locking device 23 can be moved, in particular by direct contact, with the actuating device 8. That is, the force applied by the actuating device 8 must act against the force of the pre-tensioning device 24 in at least one direction of movement of the actuating device 8 and be greater than it in order to achieve movement of the locking device 23.The pretensioning element 24 can, for example, be designed as at least one elongated unit which is preferably receptible or insertable in a pretensioning unit recess 40 of the receiving device 3, cf. Figure 5. The pretensioning element 24 can have a pre-tensioned pin 41 which presses against a counter surface of the locking element 23.

[0091] The locking device 23 can be rotatably mounted on the receiving device 3, e.g. via bearing pins 39, which are attached in a bearing pin receptacle 43 of the locking device 23 and in a bearing pin receptacle 42 of the receiving device 3, see Figure 3.

[0092] The sealing means 23 can be configured to completely close the receiving opening 4, i.e., a flat section of the sealing means 23 closes the receiving opening 4 of the card holder 1, through which the at least one card 2, 2' is passed during intended use. Preferably, in the closed position 26, the sealing means 23 forms a closed surface (with minimal gaps, i.e., gap dimension less than 2.0 mm, preferably less than 1.5 mm, particularly preferably less than 1.0 mm, most preferably less than 0.6 mm) with adjacent sections of the card holder 1.

[0093] It is possible that the closure means 23 is U-shaped, wherein a first free leg of the U is assigned to a first storage section 56 of the receiving device 3 and a second free leg of the U is assigned to a second storage section 57 of the receiving device 3, and the central connecting area 18 connecting the two free legs of the U extends between the first and second storage sections 56, 57 or spans a short side of cards 2, 2' inserted into the card holder 1, in particular completely.

[0094] The closure element 23 can, for example, have a curved shape on its outer surface, at least in sections. This curved shape can have a curvature about at least one axis of curvature extending perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the closure element 23. In particular, a curved (outer) surface is formed in the area of ​​the U-shaped legs of the closure element 23, sloping especially towards the free longitudinal ends of the closure element 23, so that in the assembled state of the closure element 23 a continuous or edge-free transition is achieved between the closure element 23 and the lateral areas (bearing sections 56, 57 of the receiving device 3).

[0095] It is possible that at least one longitudinal side, in particular both longitudinal sides, of the locking means 23 has at least a section, preferably predominantly, particularly preferably completely, sharp or angular edge (e.g., radius less than 5 mm, preferably less than 3.5 mm, particularly preferably less than 2.5 mm, more preferably less than 1.5 mm, most preferably less than 0.5 mm) and / or a side surface 59 of the locking means 23 oriented perpendicular to the outwardly facing main surface 58 (central main extension surface) of the locking means 23. The side surface 59 can, for example, be flat and, in the closed position 26, lie flat against a surface 86 of the actuating means 8 facing the interior 5, in particular directly.Optionally, the locking means 23 can have a further, in particular flat, side surface 60 on the side opposite the actuating means 8, which is preferably oriented at right angles to the main surface 58 of the locking means 23 or forms a sharp or angular edge at the transition to the main surface 58. In the locked position 26, the further side surface 60 can, in particular, lie flat against a surface section of the receiving device 3. Preferably, in the locked position 26, the further side surface 60 lies flat against a surface section of the receiving device 3 that forms the interior 5, or that is directly adjoining the interior 5, or that faces the interior 5.

[0096] Preferably, the locking means 23 has a contact section on at least one of its free U-legs for a pretensioning means 24 arranged on, i.e. in or on, the receiving device 3.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, the actuating means 8 is linearly movable, in particular directly, i.e., mounted in or on the receiving device 3, wherein the movement of the actuating means 8 in a first direction is limited by a section or by a stop of the receiving device 3 or the ejector means 7, and the movement of the actuating means 8 in a direction opposite to the first direction is limited by the locking means 23 or by the fastening of the locking means 23 to the receiving device 3. In other words, the movement of the actuating means 8 relative to the receiving device 3 is limited in at least one direction by a stop formed by the locking means 23.The locking means 23 thus has a dual function: it serves to temporarily close the receiving opening 4 and also to limit the movement of the actuating means 8 in at least one direction of movement.

[0098] Because the locking device 23 is rotatably mounted on the receiving device 3 and the rotatability of the locking device is defined and predetermined, the actuating device 8 can be limited in its mobility by the locking device 23.

[0099] In other words, it can be provided that the actuating means 8, in particular by means of its retaining structure 85, is first threaded or inserted into a retaining structure 30 provided on the receiving device or into at least one bearing rail 44 on the receiving device so as to be linearly movable, and then the locking means 30 is attached to the receiving device 3. For example, the locking means 23 is attached to the receiving device 3 via bearing elements (e.g. a bearing pin) and thus the actuating means 8 is captured on the receiving device 3 or attached in a captive manner so as to be movable.

[0100] The limitation of movement of the actuating means 8 in a further direction can be achieved, for example, by means of contact of a section of the actuating means 8 with a section of the receiving device 3 and / or by means of contact of an actuating-side section (e.g. the counter-contact area 83) with the actuating area 15 of the ejector means 7, wherein the ejector means 7 has a limitation of movement relative to the receiving device 3 and thus, after reaching a movement-limited position of the ejector means 7, further movement of the actuating means 8 is inhibited or limited by the contact of the actuating-side section with the section of the movement-limited ejector means 7.

[0101] Alternatively, at least one bearing pin can be integrally formed or joined to the locking element 23, wherein the locking element 23 is fixed by at least one fixing element 45 after being moved into a desired position relative to the receiving device 3. In other words, the fixing element 45 can capture or rotatably fix the bearing pin arranged in a recess of the receiving device 3. For this purpose, as shown, for example, in Figure 15, the fixing element 45 can be received in a bore, in particular one running parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receiving device 3, as indicated by arrow 46. Alternatively or additionally, the fixing element 45 can be fixed to the receiving device 3 by force-fit, form-fit, and / or material-fit.

[0102] Alternatively, at least one bearing pin of the locking device 23 can be designed as a spring-loaded bearing element 47, see Figure 14. This bearing element 47 can, for example, be designed in the manner of a wristwatch clasp and have a spring-loaded pin which is temporarily pushed back for mounting the locking device 23 and, after the locking device 23 has reached its intended position, is arranged in an opening of the receiving device 3, thereby forming a pivot joint of the locking device 23, see Figure 14. It is possible for the locking device 23 to have a rigid bearing pin and a bearing element 47 designed with a spring-loaded pin. Optionally, the locking device 23 can have two bearing elements 47, each designed with a spring-loaded pin, by means of which the locking device 23 can be rotatably attached to the receiving device 3.

[0103] The locking element 23 can, for example, have an actuating region 27 for contact with a counter-contact region 84 of the actuating element 8, wherein contact between the actuating element-side counter-contact region 84 and the actuating region 27 on the locking element-side allows the locking element 23 to be moved into a closed position 26 that closes the receiving opening 4 and / or into an open position 25 that releases the receiving opening 4. The preloading element 24 keeps the locking element 23 in contact with the actuating element 8 at all times or at least predominantly over its possible range of motion or total range of motion. In other words, at any given time or in any state of movement, there can be play between the locking element 23 and the actuating element 8 by means of the acting preloading force of the preloading element 24.The receiving device 3 can, for example, have a prismatic basic shape, in particular a cuboid basic shape, and the actuating means 8 can be designed as a planar body, wherein a main extensional surface of the actuating means 8 has a size that corresponds to at least 35%, preferably at least 50%, particularly preferably at least 75%, most preferably at least 85%, further preferably completely, to the size of a main extensional surface of the receiving device 3.

[0104] The actuating means 8 can, for example, be arranged completely within a main extension surface of the receiving device 3 in the starting position 10, in particular in a rest position, and the actuating means 8 can protrude at least partially from a main extension surface of the receiving device 3 in the output position 11.

[0105] The card holder 1 can, for example, be configured such that the actuating means 8, during its actuation movement 9 from the starting position 10 to an output position 11, performs a movement in a first direction 28, and the at least one card 2, 2' moved out of the receiving opening 4 by the ejector means 7 during this actuation movement 9 is movable or is moved in a direction 29 opposite to the first direction 28. In other words, it can be provided that the at least one card 2, 2' moved out of the card holder 1 is moved in a first direction 28 relative to the receiving device 3, while the actuating means 8 performs a movement in a direction 29 opposite to the first direction 28 relative to the receiving device 3. Preferably, the two directions 28, 29 are aligned parallel to each other.

[0106] The actuating means 8 can, for example, be mounted to be linearly movable at least partially, preferably exclusively. This allows the actuating means 8 to perform a linear or translational movement relative to the receiving device 3, particularly exclusively, during the transition from the initial position to the output position and / or from the output position to the initial position.

[0107] The actuating means 8 can, for example, have a retaining structure 85 by means of which the actuating means 8 is movably and positively mounted on a retaining structure 30 of the receiving device 3, wherein the retaining structure 85 (a) has at least one counter-contact section 81, 82 for at least temporary contact with at least one clamping-side actuating section 63, 64 and / or (b) at least one counter-contact area 83 for at least temporary contact with the at least one ejector-side actuating area 15. The actuating-side retaining structure 85 and the receiving-side retaining structure 30 can have a guiding function at least sectionally, preferably predominantly, and particularly preferably completely over the entire path of movement.In other words, the holding and restraint structure 85, 30 actuating means 8 and receiving device 3 are connected and guided, in particular directly, in such a way that only a linear relative movement is possible.

[0108] It is possible that the retaining structure 85 is formed integrally with the counter-contact section 81, 82 and / or with the counter-contact area 83. For example, the actuating means 8 can be made of a material in which the retaining structure 85 and / or at least one counter-contact region 84 and / or at least one counter-contact area 83 and / or at least one counter-contact section 81, 82 is formed integrally, in particular as an integral feature, of the actuating means 8.

[0109] The first counter-contact section 81 can comprise a first edge, in particular a first end edge, of a protrusion of the actuating element 8 and is designed to actuate the (first) actuating section 63 of the clamping element 61 in the initial position 10 or in the rest or closed position of the card holder 1. Through contact of the actuating-body-side counter-contact section 81 with the clamping-element-side actuating section 63, the clamping element 61 is moved, in particular against the preload force of the preload unit 31, to a card holding position 12, or moved towards the interior 5, or positioned in a position close to the interior. Alternatively or additionally, the further counter-contact section 82 can be arranged or designed as an edge, in particular as a second edge and / or as an edge opposite the first edge of a protrusion of the actuating element 8, cf. Figure 10.There, the holding structure 85 comprises at least one elongated projection, the first edge of which forms the first counter-contact section 81 and the second edge of which, opposite the first edge, forms the further counter-contact section 82. The further counter-contact section 82 can be designed to be brought into contact with the second actuating section 64 of the clamping element 61 in the output position 11 of the actuating means 8, or to move or locate the clamping element 61 in a card holding position 12 by means of this contact. This is shown in detail in Figures 16 to 19.

[0110] Figure 16 shows the initial position 10, in which the ejector 7 is fully retracted and the cards are completely received in the interior 5. In this position, the first counter-contact section 81 of the actuating element 8 contacts the first actuating section 63 of the clamping element 61 and pushes it in the direction indicated by arrow 48, i.e., in a direction away from the interior. This moves the clamping section 62 over the pivot point or thickening 66 of the clamping element 61 in the direction indicated by arrow 49, so that the clamping element 67 is brought into clamping contact with the card lying in the interior. Figure 17 shows a first phase of the movement of the actuating element 8 into a position that moves the cards out, i.e., towards the ejection position 11. In this phase, the contact between the actuating section 63 and the counter-contact section 81 is broken.The further actuating section 64 is also not in contact with the further counter-contact section 82, so that the clamping element 61 is held by the pre-tensioning unit 31 (see arrow 50), which indicates the pre-tensioning force of the pre-tensioning unit 31 and the movement of the second actuating section 64. At the same time, the clamping section 62 moves away from the interior 5 and the card 2 located therein, and moves to a distance from the card 2 (see arrow 51). Thus, at this stage, or in this intermediate position 21 of the card holder 1 and the actuating element 8, no clamping force acts on the cards located at least partially in the interior 5. These cards can therefore move out of the interior 5, at least partially, without significant force being applied by the ejector element 7. It can be seen that the actuating element 8 performs a movement relative to the receiving device 3 that is directed opposite to the movement of the cards 2, 2' relative to the receiving device 3.

[0111] In Figure 18, the ejection movement is shown in its maximum extension, i.e., the ejector means 7 is shown in its fully extended position. This also constitutes the dispensing position 11, as in this state the cards have fully emerged from the interior 5 of the card holder 1 and are ready for further manual removal. In this position, the additional counter-contact section 82 comes into contact with the second actuating section 64 and moves the clamping means 61 against the preload force of the preload unit 31 in the direction of arrow 52, ​​so that the clamping section 62, or the clamping element 67, is moved in the direction of arrow 53 and thus towards the interior 5, or towards the cards 2, 2' located in the interior 5. This results in contact between the clamping element 67 and the cards 2, 2' located in the interior 5, thus securing them against falling out of the card holder 1 due to gravity.

[0112] Figure 19 shows an intermediate position 21 during the return movement of the actuating element 8 towards the starting position 10. In this position, neither the first nor the subsequent counter-contact section 81, 82 is in contact with the first or second actuating section 63, 64, respectively. Therefore, the clamping element 61 is moved by the pre-tensioning unit 31 such that the clamping section 62 is moved away from the interior 5, i.e., it enters a position of disengagement from any cards 2, 2' arranged in the interior 5 of the card holder 1 (see arrows 53, 54). Due to the magnets or another type of return mechanism, the ejector element 7 may already be returned to its initial position during an intermediate position 21 or before reaching the starting position 10 (see Figure 19).Through contact between the counter-contact area 83 and the actuating region 27 of the locking means 23, the locking means can be moved into the locked position 26 against the preload force of the preloading means 24; this occurs, for example, from the intermediate position 21 shown in Figure 19 towards the initial position 10, see Figure 16. In the initial position 10, the locking means 32 can lock the actuating means 8 to the receiving device 3.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, see Figure 11, the actuating element 8 has four retaining structures 85, which are particularly designed as raised sections. These can be provided as retaining rail engagement elements 86 to form a positive fit or to form a movable longitudinal bearing of the actuating element 8 on the receiving device 3. For this purpose, the receiving device 3 can have at least one, preferably at least two, bearing rails 44 into which the retaining rail engagement elements 86 on the actuating element side engage. Alternatively, it is also possible for the actuating element 8 to have bearing rails into which retaining rail engagement elements on the receiving device side engage (not shown).

[0114] For example, the card holder 1 has a pre-tensioning unit 31 by means of which the clamping element 61 can be pre-tensioned or is pre-tensioned into the card release position 13. The pre-tensioning unit 31 can, for example, be designed as a spring, e.g., a helical spring, preferably made of metal, or as an elastomer. The pre-tensioning unit 31 is preferably configured to pre-tension the clamping element 61 into a release position so that, in the event of a pressure force from the actuating element 8 not acting on the clamping element 61, the clamping element 61 is forced or arranged into the card release position 13 by the pre-tensioning unit 31. The pre-tensioning unit 31 can also prevent noise caused by acceleration due to inertial forces when the card holder 1 is shaken.

[0115] It is possible that the card holder 1 includes a locking device 32 by means of which the actuating device 8 can be locked in a predefined relative position, preferably in the initial position 10, to the receiving device 3. The locking device 32 can, for example, actuate a locking mechanism for the actuating device 8 relative to the receiving device 3. Alternatively, a locking action can be achieved, for example, by direct contact of an element or component of the locking device 32 with the actuating device 8. For example, the locking device 32 includes a spring-loaded ball on the receiving device side, which engages in a recess of the actuating device 8, whereby applying a pressure and / or tensile force to the actuating device 8 (relative to the receiving device 3) that exceeds a release force or holding force enables relative movement between the actuating device 8 and the receiving device 3.If the applied force is below the release force or the holding force, the locking device 32 inhibits relative movement between the receiving device 3 and the actuating device 8. The locking device 32 can, for example, be arranged in a locking device recess 38 of the receiving device 3 or of a body forming the receiving device 3.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment, the ejector means 7 can be biased into at least one end position, in particular into the position of the initial position 10, by means of magnetic forces. This ensures reliable retraction of the ejector means 7 when the actuating means 8 moves back into the initial position or into the rest position of the card holder 1.

[0117] The receiving device 3 and / or the ejector device 7 may be provided with receptacles for receiving a first magnet and a second magnet. This pair of magnets 33, 34 can be used to bias the ejector device 7 into the initial position 10. For this purpose, the two magnets 33, 34 can attract each other.

[0118] It is possible that the ejector means 7 has at least one actuation area 15 for contact with at least one counter-contact area 83 of the actuating means 8. For example, the actuation area 15 forms an integral part of the ejector means 7 and / or the counter-contact area 83 forms an integral part of the actuating means 8. Alternatively, the actuation area 15 can form a separate component that is attached to the ejector means 7, in particular by forming a rigid connection, or the counter-contact area 83 can form a separate component that is attached to the actuating means 8, in particular by forming a rigid connection. Alternatively or additionally, the ejector means 7 can have a curved shape, at least in sections.Thus, the ejector means 7 may have a first straight section and, at an end of the ejector means 7 opposite the straight section, a further section. Preferably, a rotation axis 22 of the ejector means 7, e.g. in the form of a bearing recess 35, is arranged between the at least predominant portion of the straight section and the further section.

[0119] It is possible that the ejector means 7 has a taper and / or a smaller cross-sectional area and / or a smaller transverse extent towards its end, which encompasses the wider area and / or its end, which encompasses the operating area, than at its area intended for pushing out the at least one card located in the interior.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment, the ejector means 7 has a convex surface shape at its actuation area 15. For example, the actuation area 15 has a pronounced curvature around a line parallel to the axis of rotation 22 of the ejector means 7. This ensures that, during progressive relative movement of the actuation means 8 and the receiving device 3, or of the actuation means 8 and the ejector means 7, continuous contact is maintained between the actuation area 15 and the counter-contact area 83 of the actuation means 8. This occurs even when the ejector means 7 rotates relative to the counter-contact area 83. In other words, the counter-contact area 83 on the actuation means can move across the convex surface shape of the ejector means 7 during the relative movement of the actuation means 8 and the receiving device 3.

[0121] For example, the ejector means 7 has an L-shape. Preferably, a contour of the ejector means 7 facing the interior 5 of the card holder 1 has at least a portion, preferably predominantly, and most preferably completely, a concave curved shape, which corresponds, for example, to the contour shape of a credit card or check card (cf. ISO / IEC 7810, ID-1). That is, for example, the curved shape of the ejector means 7 facing the interior 5 has a section with a radius of 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm, preferably 2.50 mm to 4.0 mm, particularly preferably 3.00 mm to 3.40 mm, and most preferably 3.12 mm to 3.23 mm. On a side opposite the curved contour facing the interior 5, or on a side facing away from the interior, particularly at the longitudinal height of the curved contour facing the interior, a radius orThe ejector means 7 has a curvature greater than 3.20 mm, preferably 3.50 mm, particularly preferably 4.0 mm, more preferably 5.0 mm, and most preferably 10 mm. Preferably, the outwardly facing side of the ejector means 7 has a curvature with a larger radius than the curvature of the ejector means 7 facing the interior 5. Alternatively or additionally, the outwardly facing curvature of the ejector means 7, or the boundary of the ejector means 7, can be set back in the outwardly facing area relative to the longitudinal extent of a straight section of the ejector means 7.

[0122] It is possible that the ejector means 7 has at least one actuation area 15 for contact with at least one counter-contact area 83 of the actuating means 8. The counter-contact area 83 can, for example, have a curved surface or contour shape, i.e., the contact point of the counter-contact area 83 can move over the actuation area 15 of the ejector means 7.

[0123] The ejector means 7 can, for example, have a shape that is bent or curved at least in sections, in particular along its longitudinal axis.

[0124] The ejector means 7 can, for example, comprise a stepped section 37 for pushing out the at least one card 2, 2' received in the interior 5 during the transfer of the card holder 1 or the ejector means 7 to the dispensing position 11. The actuation area 15 associated with the counter-contact area 83 can be arranged or formed at an end region of the ejector means 7 opposite the stepped section 37. It is possible that the ejector means 7 has an L-shaped form, with the actuation area 15 arranged or formed on a short leg of the L-shaped ejector means 7. For example, the L-shaped ejector means has an internal angle α between the short and the long leg of the L, which is between 70° and 170°, preferably between 80° and 165°, particularly preferably between 100° and 160°, more preferably between 110° and 160°, most preferably between 120° and 150°, and further preferably between 130° and 140°.

[0125] It is possible that the actuation area 15 of the ejector means has a convex contact surface for contact with the counter-contact area 83 of the actuation means 8.

[0126] It is possible that the actuating area 15 has a curved shape, in particular a circular arc shape, the surface of which extends around a center point of the curved shape at an angle in the range of 20° to 70°, preferably 30° to 60°, more preferably 35° to 55°, and most preferably 40° to 50°. Preferably, the surface of the actuating area 15 has a circular arc shape in the longitudinal section of the ejector means. Contact between the surface of the actuating area 15 and the counter-contact area 83 can occur over the specified angle during the displacement of the actuating means 8 relative to the receiving device 3, in particular without interruption. The actuating area 15 can optionally have an arc shape other than a circle, at least partially, and preferably predominantly.

[0127] The pretensioning means 24 can, for example, comprise at least one first magnetic means 90 arranged or formed on the locking means 23 and / or at least one second magnetic means 91 arranged on the receiving device 3. For example, the at least one first magnetic means 90 and / or the at least one second magnetic means 91 is received at least partially, preferably predominantly (by volume), and particularly preferably completely, in a receiving recess of the locking means 23 and / or in a receiving recess of the receiving device 3, see Figure 20. Optionally, the first and / or second magnetic means 90, 91 can be received in the receiving recess in such a way that they are not visible from the outside or exposed when the card holder 1 is closed (starting position 10).For example, the closure means 23 has a U-shaped form, wherein at least one closure-side magnetic means 90 is arranged in at least one wedge area or in at least one transition area of ​​a middle U-leg and at least one free U-leg.

[0128] It is possible that the card holder 1 includes a delay device 92, which is configured to impose a defined, in particular increased, delay resistance during a delay path 93 of the actuating movement 9 of the actuating means 8 from the output position 11 to the starting position 10 – i.e., during closing – by means of a delay force. The delay resistance can be constant over the delay path 93 or produce different delay forces or different delay resistances over the delay path 93. All delay resistances here include, for example, contact between a delay means 94 and an actuating means 8. For example, the delay device 92 includes a spring-loaded ball 101, which acts, in particular directly, on a section of the actuating means 8.The actuating element 8 touches this section at least partially and is subjected to a compressive force. The actuating element 8 can have at least one point-like and / or at least one elongated or groove-like recess 105 on its side facing the delaying device 92. This recess 105 and an area extending in the extension of this recess can be traced or moved along by the ball 101 while the actuating element 8 is moved between the locking position (starting position 10) and the release position (output position 11); at least partially, the delaying element 94 generates resistance that restricts the sliding movement of the actuating element 8 relative to the receiving device 3 in a defined area.

[0129] The delay device 92 ensures that a delay occurs during the closing of the closure means 23, thus giving the cards 2, 2' held in the card holder 1 more time to enter the interior 5 of the receiving device 3, particularly due to gravity, while the actuating means 8 moves to its initial position 10 (closed position) and the ejector means 7 retracts. Without a delay device 92, a rapid closing movement of the actuating means 8 could result in contact, particularly jamming, between the cards 2, 2' protruding from the card holder 1 and the closing closure means 23. Alternatively or additionally, particularly in addition to a delay means designed as a ball 101, the delay device 92 may include at least one elastomeric element, e.g.a delaying device 94 made of plastic or rubber, which is in contact with the actuating device 8 at least temporarily or at least partially.

[0130] It is possible that the delay device 92 comprises a delay element 94, wherein the delay element 94 applies a force, in particular a compressive force, to the actuating element 9 at least sectionally, preferably always, such that a delay force is present that at least partially counteracts an actuating force acting the actuating element 9. The actuating force can be the hand force or manually applied force used to perform a relative movement between the actuating element 9 and the receiving device 3.

[0131] The delay path 93 can, for example, comprise a portion (of its length) of a total movement path 95 between the starting position 10 and the output position 11 of (a) at least 10%, preferably 20%, particularly preferably 30%, further preferably 40%, and / or (b) of a maximum of 90%, preferably a maximum of 80%, particularly preferably 70%, further preferably 60%, most preferably a maximum of 50%. The actuating means 8 executes a movement from the output position 11 (fully open state of the card holder 1) to the starting position 10 (fully closed state) of the card holder 1 along a total movement path 95. In Figures 22 and 25, this is shown, for example, as the path segment that the delay means 94, which is designed in particular as a ball 101, executes relative to the actuating means 8.The deceleration distance 93 is to be understood as that portion of the total travel distance 95 of an actuating means 8 during which a deceleration force or an increased deceleration force of the deceleration device 92 acts on the actuating means 8. The portions of the deceleration distance 93 specified in the aforementioned percentages can refer to the proportion of the length of the deceleration distance 93 as a percentage of the length of the total travel distance 95. In principle, the deceleration effect or deceleration force can be present in both directions 9 of actuation of the actuating means 8. Figures 22 to 25 show that in the output position (Figure 22), the deceleration means 94 projects into a recess 105; this can occur under the influence of an initial compressive force of the deceleration means 94 on the actuating means 8.In Figure 23, after the actuating element 8 has moved towards the receiving opening 4, the deceleration element 94 comes into contact with an edge defining the recess 105. This leads to an increase in the deceleration effect of the deceleration element 94 with respect to an actuating movement or with respect to the actuating force required to move the actuating element 8. In other words, the actuating movement of the actuating element 8 is decelerated. In Figure 24, the deceleration element 94 is located in a region in the middle of the deceleration path, i.e., a section of the path in which a higher pressure force is exerted on the actuating element 8 by the deceleration element 94 compared to the section of the recess 105. Upon reaching the starting position 10 (closing state of the card holder 1), the deceleration element 94 rests against or in another recess 106 of the actuating element 8.For example, it may be advantageous if a delay element 94, particularly one designed as a ball 101, does not penetrate completely into the depth of the further recess 106, but rather rests against an edge bounding the recess 106. Alternatively or additionally, the penetration depth of the delay element 94 into the further recess 106 associated with the starting position 10 may be less than in the first recess 105 or in a recess 105 located in the direction of or at the output position 11.

[0132] Furthermore, the movement of a stop element 107, arranged in particular on the actuating means 8, can be seen from Figures 22 to 25, which limits this relative movement in at least one end position of the relative movement of actuating means 8 and receiving device 3, in particular in the output position 11.

[0133] The delay device 92 can, for example, be configured such that during the actuation movement 9 of the actuating means 8 from the output position 11 to the starting position 10, the delay resistance (in particular an increased delay resistance) is present before a closing movement of the closing means 23, initiated by the actuation movement 9 of the actuating means 8, leads to a reduction of an opening cross-section 96 of the receiving opening 4. Preferably, a delay resistance, in particular an increased one, of the delay device 92 is already active or already present before an actuating means-supported movement of the closing means 23 occurs while the actuating means 8 is being moved to the starting position 10.In other words, the deceleration effect of the deceleration device 92 can be present during the actuating means 8 as it moves into the starting position 10, before the actuating means 8 and the locking means 23 come into contact. As shown in Figure 23, the deceleration means 94 rests against the end edge of the recess 105, so that the deceleration effect, particularly the increased effect, occurs immediately as the actuating means 8 continues to move, without yet making contact between the actuating means 8 and the locking means 23. This is shown in particular in Figure 24, from which it can be seen that the deceleration means 94 has already traversed a section of the deceleration path 93, but there has still been no contact between the actuating means 8 and the locking means 23.This can also be seen from the fact that the position and / or orientation of the locking device has not changed between the states shown in Figures 22 to 24.

[0134] Alternatively or additionally, during the actuation movement 9 of the actuating means 8 from the output position 11 to the starting position 10, a delay resistance, particularly an increased one, may be present before a closing movement of the closing means 23 initiated by the actuation movement 9 of the actuating means 8 leads to a reduction of the opening cross-section 96 of the receiving opening 4, which is equal to or smaller than the cross-section of a card group cross-section of a maximum possible group of cards 2, 2' that can be received into the interior 5. Cross-section or opening cross-section is the area or opening area that is perpendicular to a principal extension plane of the card holder 1 and / or perpendicular to a principal extension plane of the cards 2, 2'.The actuating element 8 can, for example, be pre-tensioned to the initial position 10 by means of a pre-tensioning device 97 and / or the movement of the actuating element 8 from the initial position 10 towards the output position 11 by means of the pre-tensioning device 97 requires overcoming a pre-tension resistance generated by the pre-tensioning device. This prevents the accidental opening of the locking element 23, which is held in the initial position 10 (locked position) by the actuating element 8.

[0135] The preloading device 97 can, for example, comprise a first magnetic element 98 arranged and / or formed on the actuating means 8 and a second magnetic element 99 arranged or formed on the receiving device 3. For example, a second magnetic element 98 can be arranged or formed in a central or middle region of a leg of a U-shaped side wall of the receiving device 3, in particular inserted in a corresponding recess. Optionally, a second magnetic element 98 can be arranged or formed in a leg of the U, i.e., in a free leg of a U-shaped side wall of the receiving device 3 (not shown). For example, the first and / or second magnetic element 98, 99 is / are, in particular exclusively, located on one side of the central leg of the U or of the central region between the two free legs opposite the axis of rotation of the ejector means 7.The magnetic elements 98, 99 of the preloading device 97 are arranged or formed on the outer U-shaped legs and / or on one side, in particular half, of the card holder 1 opposite the axis of rotation (axis 22) of the ejector means 7. They can, for example, be designed as mutually attracting magnets and be arranged in the initial position 10 in an approximate state, in particular lying in alignment.

[0136] Optionally, the pre-tensioning device 97 may comprise several pre-tensioning mechanisms. For example, the pre-tensioning device 97 may include magnetic elements 98, 99 and, additionally, an end-position fixation by means of components of the deceleration device 92. Thus, as shown, for example, in Figures 20 to 25, moving the device out of the initial position 10 (fully closed position), cf. Figure 25, may require overcoming or forcing over a retaining resistance of the magnetic elements 97, 98 and the deceleration device 94 – at least partially moving the deceleration device 94 out of the further recess 106. Specifically, the deceleration device 94 may be designed as a ball 101 which projects at least partially into a further recess 106 specific to the initial position, such that during movement out of this position, the ball 101 must be moved against a boundary wall of the further recess 106.Therefore, in order to move the actuating means 8 out of the completely closed position, i.e., from the starting position 10, a resistance force must be overcome, which results from the resistance effect of the deceleration means 94 in its stop position and from the resistance force of the magnetic elements 97, 98.

[0137] Optionally, the delay device 92 can use magnetic forces to delay or brake the movement of the actuating element 8 to its initial position 10, particularly before the actuating element 8 comes into contact with the locking element. For this purpose, magnetic elements can be arranged or formed on the receiving device 3 and on the actuating element 8, respectively, which counteract an actuating movement of the actuating element 8 to the initial position 10, at least temporarily. In a preferred embodiment, the preloading element 24 acts to brake the movement of the actuating element 8 to the initial position 10. For example, the preloading element 24 has magnetic elements 90, 91, which are arranged or formed on the receiving device 3 and on the locking element 23 and which counteract or brake a closing movement of the locking element 23 exerted on it by the actuating element 8.This also allows the pretensioning means 24 to have a delaying effect on the movement of the actuating means 8 in its initial position 10, although only after the actuating means 8 has come into contact with the locking means 23.

[0138] In an optional embodiment, a stopper (not shown) may be arranged or formed on the closure element 23 and / or in the contact area of ​​the closure element 23 on the receiving device 3. Preferably, at least one stopper may be made of an elastic plastic (elastomer), rubber, or silicone. Preferably, at least one magnetic element 90, 91 is arranged or formed, particularly directly, between a stopper and (a) the closure element 23 or (b) the receiving device 3. For example, a receiving recess may be arranged or formed in the closure element 23 to receive a magnetic element 90, and a stopper may be arranged at least partially in this recess.Alternatively or additionally, a magnetic element 91 can be arranged in a receiving recess of the receiving device 3, wherein a stopper element can be arranged at least partially in this receiving device-side recess. In other words, at least one stopper element can be used as a closure or as a covering of a magnetic element 90, 91 arranged on the locking element 23 and / or on the receiving device 3. For example, the stopper element can be received at least partially in the recess of the locking element 23 receiving the magnetic element 90 (see Figure 26). Alternatively or additionally, the stopper element can be arranged at least partially in the magnetic element recess of the receiving device 3 associated with the magnetic element 90 (see Figure 27).It is possible that the actuating means 8 has an actuation region 27 which, at least during the movement of the actuating means 8 from the starting position 10 to the output position 11 and / or during the movement of the actuating means from the output position 11 to the starting position 10, is in contact, at least partially, with a counter-contact region 84 of the closure means 23, wherein the actuating region 27 and / or the counter-contact region 84 is not exposed in the starting position 10 or in the state of the fully closed closure means 23. This has the advantage that any grooves and / or scratches resulting from the contact and the movement performed there are not visible or are covered when the card holder 1 is closed. For example, an actuating region 27 and / or counter-contact region 84 that is not exposed means that it is covered.are from other areas of the receiving device 3 and / or the closure means 23. In Figures 26 and 23.

[0139] Figure 27 shows the actuating element-side counter-contact region 84 and the closure-side actuating region 27 from two different perspectives. It is evident that the counter-contact region 84 and / or the actuating region 27 are arranged such that they are not exposed in the initial position 10 (closed state of the card holder 1), see Figure 25. This can be achieved, for example, by a recessed actuating region 27 of the closure element 23 and / or by an inwardly directed step, see Figures 26 and 27.

[0140] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that during the movement of the actuating means 8 between the starting position 10 and the output position 11, the locking means 23 forms an intermediate space 100 with the receiving device 3, into which, during the movement of the actuating means 8 between the starting position 10 and the output position 11, the actuating means 8 projects at least temporarily and at least partially, cf. Figures 23 and 24.

[0141] In a preferred embodiment, the card holder 1 can have a support area 108 configured to contact a card 2, 2' received in the interior 5 at a principal extent surface of the card 2, 2', wherein the support area 108 has a contact surface 109 which corresponds to at most half, preferably at most a quarter, particularly preferably at most a quarter, particularly preferably at most a tenth, more preferably at most a twentieth, of the principal extent surface 110 of the card holder 1 provided in the interior 5 for receiving a card 2, 2' and / or of a principal extent surface 111 of a card 2, 2' to be received in the card holder 1, cf. Figures 28 to 30. In Figure

[0142] 28 The main extent surface 111 of a card 1 is bounded by a dotted line. In the illustrated embodiment, the support surface 109 of the support area 108 is formed by both surfaces, each extending longitudinally to the longitudinal axis of the card holder 2, 2' and pointing upwards. The support area 108 can, for example, have at least one support section 112, 113, which is designed as a projection extending into the interior 5 from the receiving device 3 and / or from the actuating means 8.

[0143] Preferably, all support sections 112, 113 of the support area 108 lie in a common plane with their surface sections, cf. Figure 30. This ensures that a map 2, 2' supported by the support sections 112, 113 is aligned parallel to the main extension plane of the map holder 1 and, at the same time, the contact area between the map 2, 2' and the map holder 1 can be minimized. Optionally, a map 2, 2' supported by at least one support section 112, 113 can be supported at an angle or not parallel to the main extension plane of the map holder 1. A raised section is generally a protrusion relative to a recessed area. For example, a raised section is perpendicular to a main extension surface of a recessed area held in the map holder 1.

[0144] It is possible that the support area 108, in particular at least one support section 112, 113 of the support area 108, has at least one recess 114 for at least temporarily receiving a component of a clamping device 6, preferably a clamping means 61, and more preferably a clamping element 67. This allows the clamping means 61 to engage over the entire thickness (extension perpendicular to the main extension plane of the card) of the card, even though the card 2, 2' is supported by the at least one support area 108. This improves the clamping effect of the clamping device 6.

[0145] The support area 108, in particular at least one support section 112, 113 of the support area 108, can, for example, taper along a longitudinal extension of the card holder 1 in the direction of the ejector means 7 and / or in the direction of the receiving opening 4, cf. tapers 102, 103. For example, the support area 108 tapers from a central area 115 in the direction of the ejector means 7 (taper 102) and in the direction of the receiving opening 4 (taper 103).

[0146] The ejector means 7 can, for example, have a stepped or tiered section 37, which is designed such that, by means of this, during the ejection of the cards 2, 2' by means of the ejector means 7, they are arranged in a tiered or fanned form. It can be advantageous if a step defining a top step 117 and / or a bottom step 116 of the stepped section 37 has a step height 118 that is higher than the height 119 of the at least one support section 112, 113. Preferably, the step height 118 of the top and / or bottom step 116, 117 is at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, and more preferably at least 40% greater than the height 119 of the at least one support section 112, 113. The step height 118 and the height 119 can each extend along a length perpendicular to the main extension plane.Figure 30 shows that the step height 118 is greater, in particular twice as large, as the height 119 of the support section 112, 113. The uppermost step 116 is the step of the ejector means 7 that has the greatest distance perpendicular to the main extension plane of the card holder 1 from the support section 112, 113. The lowermost step 117 is the step of the ejector means that has the smallest distance perpendicular to the main extension plane of the card holder 1 from the support section 112, 113.Optionally, the clamping means 61 can, for example, have a clamping section 62 for contact with at least one card 2, 2' to be clamped and a first actuating section 63 for contact with a first counter-contact section 81 of the actuating means 8 and a second actuating section 64 for contact with a second counter-contact section 82 of the actuating means 8, wherein by contact of the actuating means-side counter-contact section 81, 82 with the clamping means-side actuating section 63, 64 the clamping means section 62 can be moved into the card holding position 12.

[0147] Reference symbol list

[0148] I Card holder

[0149] 2.2' card

[0150] 3. Receiving facility

[0151] 4 intake opening of 3

[0152] 5 interior spaces of 3

[0153] 6 clamping device

[0154] 7 Ejector devices

[0155] 8 Actuators

[0156] 9 Actuating movement

[0157] 10 Starting position

[0158] II Issue position

[0159] 12 card holding positions

[0160] 13 Card Release Position

[0161] 14 axis of rotation of 61

[0162] 15 Area of ​​operation of 7

[0163] 16 first half of 1

[0164] 17 second half of 1

[0165] 18 connection area of ​​23

[0166] 19 Longitudinal edge of 2.2'

[0167] 20 Longitudinal edge area

[0168] 21 Intermediate position

[0169] 22 axes of 7

[0170] 23 Sealing agents

[0171] 24 Pre-tensioning devices

[0172] 25 Disclosure of 23

[0173] 26 Closure position of 23

[0174] 27 activity regions out of 23

[0175] 28 first direction

[0176] 29 second direction

[0177] 30 Retention structure of 3

[0178] 31 Pre-tensioning unit

[0179] 32 locking devices

[0180] 33 first magnet

[0181] 34 second magnet

[0182] 35 Storage recess of 7

[0183] 36 cones from 3

[0184] 37 Section of 7 38 Locking device exemption of 3

[0185] 39 Bearing pin

[0186] 40 Preload unit recess

[0187] 41 pen

[0188] 42 Bearing pin receiving opening of 3

[0189] 43 Bearing pin receiving opening of 23

[0190] 44 bearing rails of 3

[0191] 45 Fixing element

[0192] 46 Arrow

[0193] 47 Storage equipment

[0194] 48 Arrow

[0195] 49 Arrow

[0196] 50 Arrow

[0197] 51 Arrow

[0198] 52 Arrow

[0199] 53 Arrow

[0200] 54 Arrow

[0201] 55 Arrow

[0202] 56 first storage section of 3

[0203] 57 second storage section of 3

[0204] 58 main surface area of ​​23

[0205] 59 side area of ​​23

[0206] 60 additional side surfaces of 23

[0207] 61 clamping devices out of 6

[0208] 62 Clamping section of 61

[0209] 63 first actuation section of 61

[0210] 64 second actuation section of 61

[0211] 66 Thickening of 61

[0212] 67 Clamping element

[0213] 81 first counter-contact section of 8

[0214] 82 further counter-contact section of 8

[0215] 83 counter-contact area of ​​8

[0216] 84 counter-contact region of 8

[0217] 85 Holding structure of 8

[0218] 86 Area of ​​8

[0219] 90 magnetic media from 24 to 23

[0220] 91 Magnetic means from 24 to 3 92 Delay device

[0221] 93 Delay section

[0222] 94 delaying agents out of 92

[0223] 95 Total movement distance

[0224] 96 Opening cross-section

[0225] 97 Pre-tensioning device

[0226] 98 first magnetic element of 97 at 8

[0227] 99 second magnetic element of 97 at 3

[0228] 100 space between 3 and 23

[0229] 101 balls out of 94

[0230] 102 first rejuvenation 103 second rejuvenation

[0231] 105 Exclusion of 8

[0232] 106 further exceptions of 8

[0233] 107 Lifting equipment

[0234] 108 Print run of 1

[0235] 109 contact area of ​​108

[0236] 110 Main extent area for 2.2' of 5

[0237] 111 Main extent area of ​​2.2'

[0238] 112 first edition section of 108

[0239] 113 further edition section of 108

[0240] 114 recess of 108

[0241] 115 Centrally located, I am from 108

[0242] 116 top level of 37

[0243] 117 lowest level of 37

[0244] 118 step height of 116 or 117

[0245] 119 Height of 112, 113 a Interior angle of 7

Claims

PATE N TA NSP RÜ CHE 1. Card holder (1), in particular wallet, for holding at least one card (2, 2'), in particular a card corresponding to a credit card format (2, 2'), comprising - a receiving device (3) with a receiving opening (4) and an interior (5), wherein at least one card (2, 2'), in particular completely, can be received into the interior (5) via the receiving opening (4), - at least one ejector device (7) arranged and movably mounted in the interior (5), as well as - at least one actuating means (8) mechanically coupled at least partially to the ejector means (7) and movably mounted, wherein by performing an actuating movement (9) of the actuating means (8) relative to the receiving device (3) from a starting position (10) to an output position (11), at least one card (2, 2') arranged in the receiving device (3) can be moved at least partially out of the interior (5) by means of the ejector means (7) via the receiving opening (4).

2. Card holder according to claim 1, characterized in that the receiving opening (4) can be temporarily closed by means of a movably mounted and at least partially mechanically coupled closure means (23) to the actuating means (8).

3. Card holder (1) according to claim 2, characterized by a pretensioning means (24) which pretensions the closing means (23) into an open position (25) releasing the receiving opening (4) or into a closed position (26) closing the receiving opening (4), in particular by means of magnetic forces.

4. Card holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a delay device (92) which is arranged to impose a defined delay resistance during a delay distance (93) of the actuating movement (9) of the actuating means (8) from the output position (11) to the starting position (10) via a delay force.

5. Card holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a support area (108) which is configured to contact a card (2, 2') received in the interior (5) at a principal extent surface of the card (2, 2'), wherein the support area (108) has a support surface (109) which is at most half, preferably at most a quarter, particularly preferably at most a quarter, particularly preferably at most a tenth, more preferably at most a twentieth, of the principal extent surface (110) of the card holder provided for receiving a card (2, 2') in the interior (5). (1) and / or a principal extent area (111) of a map (2, 2') to be inserted into the map holder (1).

6. Card holder (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the support area (108) has at least one support section (112, 113) which is designed as a protrusion rising from the receiving device (3) and / or from the actuating means (8) into the interior (5).

7. Card holder according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the support area (108), in particular at least one support section (112, 113) of the support area (108), has at least one recess (114) for at least temporary reception of a component of a clamping device (6), in particular a clamping means (61).

8. Card holder according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the support area (108), in particular at least one support section (112, 113) of the support area (108), tapers over a longitudinal extension of the card holder (1) in the direction of the ejector means (7) and / or in the direction of the receiving opening (4), preferably the support area (108) tapers from a central area (115) in the direction of the ejector means (7) and in the direction of the receiving opening (4).

9. Card holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating means (8) is pre-tensioned into the starting position (10) by means of a pre-tensioning device (97) and / or by means of the pre-tensioning device (97) a movement of the actuating means (8) from the starting position (10) in the direction of the output position (11) requires overcoming a pre-tensioning resistance generated on the side of the pre-tensioning device.

10. Card holder according to claim 9, characterized in that the pretensioning device (97) comprises a first magnetic element (98) arranged and / or formed on the actuating means (8) and a second magnetic element (99) arranged or formed on the receiving device (3).

11. Card holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating means (8) has an actuating region (27) which, at least during the movement of the actuating means (8) from the dispensing position (11) to the starting position (10), is in contact at least sectionally with a counter-contact region (84) of the closure means (23), wherein the actuating region (27) and / or the counter-actuating region (27) is not exposed in the starting position (10) or in the state of the completely closed closure means (23).

12. Card holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that during the movement of the actuating means (8) from the dispensing position (11) to the starting position (10), the closing means (23) with the receiving device (3) forms an intermediate space (100) into which, during the movement of the actuating means (8) from the dispensing position (11) to the starting position (10), the actuating means (8) projects at least temporarily and at least partially.

13. Card holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a clamping device (6) having a clamping means (61), wherein the clamping means (61) is movably mounted on the receiving device (3) between at least one card holding position (12) that clamps at least one card (2, 2') received in the interior (5) and at least one card release position (13) that releases at least one card (2, 2') received in the interior (5) and is mechanically coupled to the actuating means (8) at least sectionally.

14. Card holder (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the receiving opening (4) can be temporarily closed by means of a movably mounted and at least partially mechanically coupled closure means (23) to the actuating means (8).

15. Card holder (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the card holder (1) is configured such that - the clamping means (61) is in a card holding position (12) when the ejecting means (7) is in the output position (11) and - the clamping means (61) is in a card holding position (12) when the ejector means (7) is in the starting position (10) and - the clamping means (61) is in a card release position (13) when the ejector means (7) is in an intermediate position (21) between the output position (11) and the starting position (10).

16. Card holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamping means (61) can, for example, have a clamping section (62) for contact with at least one card (2, 2') to be clamped and a first actuating section (63) for contact with a first counter-contact section (81) of the actuating means (8) and a second actuating section (64) for contact with a second counter-contact section (82) of the actuating means (8), wherein, by contact of the actuating means-side counter-contact section (81, 82) with the clamping means-side actuating section (63, 64), the clamping section (62) can be moved into the card holding position (12).

Images