Connecting device and method for connecting two components

Abstract

In order to provide a connecting device, by means of which two components can be simply and stably connected to each other, it is suggested that the connecting device includes one or more connecting elements, which are arranged at at least one of the components in a connected state and / or an anchored state, wherein at least one connecting element includes a non-self-tapping retaining protrusion, each of which has a curved support surface, which is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section, wherein the retaining protrusion can be inserted into a groove with a curved bottom cut surface provided at one of the components, which is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section, wherein the groove includes a base section and two bottom cut sections extending away from the base section in the thickness direction, and wherein the retaining protrusion is engaged in the bottom cut section of the groove in the connected state and / or the anchored state, wherein one or more connecting elements include one or more spiral engagement elements or are constructed as one or more spiral engagement elements, wherein one or more connecting elements include one or more movable retaining elements, by means of which the components are pulled toward each other and / or pushed relative to each other.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number 201580006644.4 (the corresponding international application number is PCT / EP2015 / 051521), application date of January 26, 2015, and invention name of "Connection device and method for connecting two components". Technical Field

[0002] The invention relates to a connecting device for connecting two components, in particular for connecting furniture or machine parts. Background Art

[0003] Such a connecting device is known, for example, from EP 1 990 549 A1. Summary of the invention

[0004] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a connecting device by means of which two components can be connected to one another in a simple and stable manner.

[0006] Solutions for solving problems

[0007] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a connecting device for connecting two components, in particular for connecting furniture or machine parts and / or for anchoring an object at a component, wherein the connecting device comprises one or more connecting elements, which are arranged at at least one of the components in a connected state and / or an anchored state, wherein at least one connecting element comprises one or more non-self-tapping (nicht-selbstschneidend) retaining protrusions, each of which has a curved support surface, which is arc-shaped in a longitudinal section, wherein the one or more retaining protrusions can be inserted into a curved undercut surface arranged at one of the components. In a groove, the undercut surface is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section, wherein the groove includes a base section and one or more undercut sections (Hinterschneidungsabschnitt) extending away from the base section in the thickness direction, and wherein the one or more retaining protrusions are engaged in the one or more undercut sections of the groove in the connected state and / or anchored state.

[0008] According to the present invention, a connecting device is provided for connecting two components, the connecting device comprising at least one connecting element, the connecting element comprising a retaining element for establishing a connection between the two components and a storage device for storing retaining energy of the retaining element, wherein the storage device can be operated when the connection between the two components is established and / or in order to establish a connection between the two components, so that the retaining element can be brought into a retaining position using the retaining energy.

[0009] Preferably, holding energy can be supplied to the storage device before the connection between the two components is established and the supplied holding energy can be stored by means of the storage device until the connection is established.

[0010] Preferably, the storage means comprises locking means for locking the elastic means in the prestressed position.

[0011] Preferably, the storage device can be supplied with holding energy before, during and / or after the connecting element is installed in the component.

[0012] Preferably, the connecting device comprises one or more connecting elements, which are arranged at at least one of the components in a connected state and / or an anchored state, wherein at least one connecting element comprises one or more non-self-tapping retaining protrusions, each of which has a curved support surface, which is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section, wherein one or more of the retaining protrusions can be inserted into a groove with a curved bottom cut surface arranged at one of the components, which bottom cut surface is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section, wherein the groove comprises a base section and one or more bottom cut sections extending away from the base section in the thickness direction, and wherein one or more of the retaining protrusions are engaged in one or more of the bottom cut sections of the groove in a connected state and / or an anchored state.

[0013] Preferably, one or more connecting elements can be arranged substantially completely in the groove of the component, so that the connecting element or the connecting elements do not protrude beyond the contact surface of the component.

[0014] Preferably, one or more connecting elements respectively include a plurality of elastic elements and / or a plurality of stop elements having different lengths.

[0015] Preferably, the connecting device comprises two connecting elements, each of which comprises one or more elastic elements and / or locking elements and / or each comprises one or more elastic element receiving portions and / or locking element receiving portions.

[0016] Preferably, spring elements and / or stop elements arranged adjacent to one another have spring noses and / or stop noses which project away from them in mutually different directions, in particular in mutually opposite directions.

[0017] Preferably, the connecting device comprises in particular one or more connecting elements, self-locking elastic means and / or clamping means.

[0018] Preferably, the self-locking elastic means and / or clamping means comprise one or more clamping elements which are oriented obliquely to the connecting direction and / or which point away from the contact surface of the connecting element starting from the base body of the connecting element.

[0019] Preferably, one or more of the clamping elements are flexibly, elastically and / or spring-loaded and / or are arranged flexibly, elastically and / or spring-loaded on a base body or housing of the connecting element.

[0020] Preferably, the retaining element is configured as a spring element.

[0021] Preferably, the connecting device comprises two connecting elements which can be connected to each other by means of an elastic element, wherein the elastic element and the engaging protrusion for rearward engagement by means of the elastic element are arranged at mutually different connecting elements.

[0022] Preferably, the storage device comprises a blocking element and two storage elements formed by elastic elements, wherein the elastic elements can be held in a prestressed position by means of the blocking element.

[0023] Preferably, the blocking element of the storage element can be moved from a blocking position into a release position by means of at least one engagement projection.

[0024] Preferably, the connecting device comprises at least one connecting element which can be introduced into a groove in the component, the groove comprising a curved support surface which is arc-shaped in longitudinal section, wherein the support surface adjoins a contact surface of the component only on one side.

[0025] Effects of the Invention

[0026] The connection of two components is preferably understood in this description and the appended claims as any manner of firmly or movably fixing the components relative to each other, including fixing the components in a fixed position relative to each other and connecting the components to each other so that a predetermined relative movement of the components relative to each other is possible.

[0027] Anchoring and / or anchored state in the present description and the appended claims is preferably understood as fixing the connecting element to the component, wherein the connecting element comprises an object and / or a receptacle for the object. Thus, the object can be fixed, in particular anchored, to the component by means of the connecting element.

[0028] For anchoring an object to a component, it can therefore be provided that the connecting device comprises only a single connecting element, which can be fastened, for example, only to one component in order to be able to fasten, in particular anchor, a separate object to the component.

[0029] The object may be, for example, clothing. The receptacle for the object, which is preferably arranged and / or configured on the connecting element, is then configured, for example, as a clothes hook.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally thereto, it can be provided that the object is a lighting body, in particular a lamp. Such a lighting body can then be particularly integrated in the connecting element or can be arranged on the connecting element.

[0031] Furthermore, it can be provided that the object comprises an additional function, in particular a function independent of the pure connection function, and can be fixed, in particular anchored, to the component by means of at least one connecting element.

[0032] In the present description and the appended claims, a connected state or a connected state is preferably understood to be a state of the connecting device in which one or more connecting elements are fixed to one or more components and / or are connected to one another.

[0033] When using only one connecting element, the connected state is preferably a state in which the connecting element is fixed, in particular anchored, to the component.

[0034] When two components are connected to each other, the connected state is preferably a state in which the components are fixedly connected to each other by means of a connecting device or are arranged to be movable relative to each other for relative movement of the two components.

[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that one or more connecting elements include one or more screw connection elements or are designed as one or more screw connection elements.

[0036] For example, it can be provided that one or more screw elements can be screwed into one component or into both components.

[0037] Alternatively or in addition thereto, it can be provided that one or more screw connection elements can be screwed into one or more connecting elements arranged in or on one or more of the components.

[0038] It can be provided that one or more screw engagement elements and / or one or more connecting elements comprise a stop portion, for example a stop projection, in order to screw in the one or more screw engagement elements to a predetermined screw-in depth.

[0039] It may be advantageous if one or more connecting elements comprise one or more retaining elements which are arranged partially or completely and / or temporarily or permanently within the outer contour of the base body or housing of the one or more connecting elements.

[0040] Furthermore, it can be provided that one or more connecting elements comprise one or more retaining elements which are arranged partially or completely and / or temporarily or permanently outside the outer contour of the base body or housing of the one or more connecting elements.

[0041] For example, it can be provided that one or more retaining elements are arranged and / or supported on a base body or housing of one or more connecting elements.

[0042] It may be advantageous if the one or more retaining elements do not project beyond the outer contour of the base body or housing of the one or more connecting elements in any position, in particular neither in the release position nor in the retaining position.

[0043] Alternatively or additionally thereto, it can be provided that one or more retaining elements in at least one position, in particular in the release position and / or in the retaining position, protrude beyond the outer contour of the base body or housing of the one or more connecting elements.

[0044] The one or more connecting elements preferably comprise one or more movable retaining elements, in particular retaining elements which are movable relative to the base body or the housing.

[0045] Alternatively or in addition thereto, it can be provided that one or more connecting elements comprise one or more stationary retaining elements, which are in particular immovable relative to the base body or the housing.

[0046] In one embodiment of the present invention, it can be provided that one or more connecting elements include one or more retaining elements which, in the connected state of the components, extend beyond a contact surface of one component, which contact surface is arranged to face another component and / or the other component rests against the contact surface.

[0047] It may be advantageous if one or more connecting elements comprise a locking device, by means of which the connecting element or the connecting elements can be locked to prevent the one or more connecting elements from moving and / or rotating relative to the component.

[0048] For example, it can be arranged that one or more connecting elements include a locking device, by means of which the one or more connecting elements can be locked to prevent the one or more connecting elements from moving in a groove with a curved bottom cut surface and / or along a groove with a curved bottom cut surface, wherein the bottom cut surface is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section.

[0049] It may be advantageous if the locking device comprises one or more locking elements which may be arranged or placed on a contact surface of a component for locking one or more connecting elements to prevent the one or more connecting elements from moving and / or rotating, the contact surface being arranged to face another component and / or the other component being in contact with the contact surface.

[0050] In particular, it can be arranged that the locking device includes one or more locking elements, which can be placed on the contact surface of a component to lock one or more connecting elements to prevent the one or more connecting elements from moving and / or rotating, and the contact surface is arranged to face another component and / or the other component is abutted against the contact surface.

[0051] In addition, it can be arranged that the locking device includes one or more locking elements, which can be clamped between two contact surfaces of the component to lock one or more connecting elements to prevent the one or more connecting elements from moving and / or rotating, and the two contact surfaces are arranged to respectively face the corresponding other component and / or the corresponding other component respectively abuts against the two contact surfaces.

[0052] It may be advantageous if the locking device comprises one or more movable, elastic, reversibly deformable and / or spring-loaded locking elements.

[0053] The one or more connecting elements can preferably be releasably fastened to the at least one component by means of the one or more securing elements, in particular releasably fastened without tools.

[0054] The one or more locking elements are configured as, for example, one or more locking protrusions.

[0055] In one design solution of the present invention, it can be arranged that the locking device includes at least two locking elements arranged at opposite ends of a connecting element.

[0056] The securing elements are arranged in particular at opposite end regions of the one or more retaining projections and each have a curved support surface which is arc-shaped in longitudinal section.

[0057] It may be advantageous if the securing element is arranged and / or formed at opposite ends of a base body or housing of a connecting element.

[0058] It may be advantageous if the connecting element can be pushed into the groove and if so, at least one securing element can be automatically actuated, in particular brought into a release position.

[0059] For this purpose, the at least one securing element is preferably operable in a flexible and / or spring-loaded manner.

[0060] In the end position of the connecting element, in particular in the position in which it is completely inserted into the groove, the connecting element can be preferably latched in the groove and / or on the component by means of at least one securing element.

[0061] For example, it can be provided that at least one securing element is sprung outwards in the end position of the connecting element and is thereby brought into a retaining position.

[0062] The components, in particular two or more connecting elements arranged on the components, can preferably be pulled toward each other and / or pushed toward each other by means of one or more retaining elements.

[0063] The components can be pulled or pushed against each other preferably directly by means of one or more connecting elements, so that the components are directly adjacent to each other and touch each other.

[0064] Alternatively thereto, it can be provided that the components can be fixed relative to one another at a predetermined distance from one another by means of one or more connecting elements.

[0065] The connecting element or connecting elements then preferably serve as spacers.

[0066] In one embodiment of the present invention, it can be provided that one or more connecting elements, in particular a base body or a housing of one or more connecting elements, comprises one or more through-holes for accommodating fixing elements and / or locking elements, such as screw joints.

[0067] The perforations may be cylindrical recesses, for example.

[0068] For example, it can be provided that the perforations are oriented substantially parallel or transversely, in particular substantially perpendicularly or obliquely, to a connecting direction along which the components can be connected to one another by means of the connecting element.

[0069] The connecting direction is in particular the direction along which the components are arranged adjacent to one another and / or adjoin one another.

[0070] In particular, it can be provided that the connecting direction is oriented perpendicularly to the contact surface of the component and / or perpendicularly to the contact surface of at least one connecting element of the connecting device.

[0071] It may be advantageous if one or more of the through-openings has a recess for receiving a head of the screw connection.

[0072] The one or more retaining elements of the one or more connecting elements are preferably accessible and / or operable through one or more openings (access openings) in one component or in both components.

[0073] In particular, it can be provided that one or more retaining elements of one or more connecting elements can be operated directly or indirectly automatically, mechanically and / or manually.

[0074] It can be provided that the opening or openings are one or more side openings in a wall which runs, in particular, perpendicularly to the contact surface and / or the contact surface.

[0075] In the present description and the appended claims, operating the holding element is to be understood in particular to mean that the holding element is brought from a release position into a holding position and / or from a holding position into a release position.

[0076] In a further embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that one or more retaining elements of one or more connecting elements can be accessed and / or actuated by means of magnetic means through one or more solid walls of one or both components.

[0077] In a preferred design scheme of the present invention, it is provided that the first connecting element and the second connecting element are releasably connected to each other in the connected state of the components and at least the first connecting element includes at least one retaining element that is movable or fixed relative to a base or housing of the first connecting element, and the retaining element interacts with the second connecting element in the retaining position in such a way that the retaining element prevents the first connecting element and the second connecting element from moving relative to each other along the connecting direction, and the retaining element allows the first connecting element and the second connecting element to move relative to each other along the connecting direction in the release position, wherein preferably at least one retaining element can be moved from the retaining position to the release position and / or from the release position to the retaining position due to an action outside the connecting device.

[0078] It may be advantageous if the connection of two components, in particular a connection of two or more connecting elements, is established by a relative movement of the two components as a whole, in particular the two or more connecting elements as a whole.

[0079] For example, it can be provided that the components, in particular two or more connecting elements, can first be moved towards each other, in particular to move the suspension elements of the connecting device. Introduced into the suspension element receptacle of the connecting device. This movement is in particular substantially parallel to the connecting direction.

[0080] Furthermore, it can be provided that the component, in particular the connecting element, is displaced substantially parallel to a contact surface of the component and / or a contact surface of the connecting element and / or substantially perpendicularly to the connecting direction.

[0081] By means of suitable bevels on the suspension element and / or the suspension element receptacle, the connecting elements and / or components can thereby preferably be pulled toward each other and fixed to one another.

[0082] For example, by means of securing elements, in particular securing pins, the suspension elements and / or the suspension element receptacles can be connected to one another preferably in a form-fitting manner in order to prevent an undesired loosening of the connection device.

[0083] Furthermore, it can be provided that the connection of the two connecting elements is not established by a relative displacement of the two connecting elements as a whole, but instead by a relative movement of the retaining element relative to the base body or housing of one of the connecting elements from the release position into the retaining position.

[0084] It may be advantageous if the connection between the connecting elements is released by moving the holding element relative to the base body or housing of the connecting element from a holding position into a release position.

[0085] It may be advantageous if, for connecting the components to one another, at least one connecting element can be placed or rests on a contact surface of the component, in particular is screwed to the contact surface of the component.

[0086] The one or more connecting elements preferably comprise one or more insertion projections and / or one or more receiving recesses for the one or more insertion projections.

[0087] In particular, the connecting element which can be placed or is placed on the contact surface preferably comprises one or more insertion projections and / or one or more receiving recesses for the insertion projections.

[0088] The insertion projection is, for example, a substantially square plug which extends from the contact surface in the connection direction and preferably tapers toward its end facing away from the contact surface. This preferably makes it easy to introduce it into the receiving recess of the second connecting element and / or another component.

[0089] The one or more receiving recesses are preferably configured to be substantially complementary to the one or more insertion projections.

[0090] In one design of the present invention, it can be arranged that the connecting device includes two or more connecting elements to be arranged at and / or in the first component, and / or two or more connecting elements to be arranged at and / or in the second component, wherein for the mutual connection of the components, at least one connecting element at and / or in the first component can be engaged with the second component, in particular with at least one connecting element at and / or in the second component. The connecting device preferably includes two or more connecting elements, which can be arranged at or in one of the components and can engage the two or more connecting elements with each other.

[0091] By means of the connecting element which can be arranged on or in one of the components, a movement of at least one of the connecting elements in or along the groove can preferably be prevented.

[0092] The two or more connecting elements preferably together form a locking device for at least one connecting element.

[0093] It may be advantageous if the two or more connecting elements which may be arranged at or in one of the components are two interacting connecting elements in one of the components which, for connecting the components to one another, may engage with at least one other connecting element at or in another component.

[0094] The connecting elements which can be arranged on or in one of the components are preferably connecting elements which abut against one another and / or block one another.

[0095] For example, it can be provided that the connecting element has one or more protrusions and / or one or more recesses, respectively. At least one protrusion and at least one recess are preferably mutually engageable, in particular to enable the connecting elements that can be arranged in or at one of the components to mutually engage, in particular to prevent movement along the groove.

[0096] It can be provided that the connecting device comprises two or more connecting elements which can be arranged in mutually overlapping grooves in one of the components.

[0097] In particular, it can be provided that the connecting device comprises two or more connecting elements which can be arranged in two or more overlapping grooves with a curved undercut which is in the form of a circular arc in longitudinal section.

[0098] The two grooves preferably form a substantially W-shaped undercut surface.

[0099] The at least two grooves are preferably grooves of essentially identical design which overlap one another and / or adjoin one another.

[0100] In particular, it can be provided that the arcs of the two grooves intersect inside the component.

[0101] It can be provided that a double groove is formed in one component by means of two grooves.

[0102] In particular, two connecting elements can preferably be inserted into the double groove as a double connecting element.

[0103] In one embodiment of the present invention, the connecting device comprises two or more connecting elements of substantially identical construction to be arranged in one of the components or in both components and to connect the components to one another.

[0104] For example, it can be provided that the connecting device comprises two or more connecting elements, each having at least one suspension element.

[0105] Alternatively or additionally thereto, it can be provided that the connecting device comprises two or more connecting elements, each having at least one suspension element receptacle.

[0106] Furthermore, it can be provided that the connecting device comprises two or more essentially identically designed connecting elements, each having one or more suspension elements and / or one or more suspension element receptacles.

[0107] The connecting element for arrangement on or in the first component and the connecting element for arrangement on or in the second component are preferably provided with perforations such that they overlap, in particular align with one another, in the connected state of the components, in particular in the holding position of the connecting elements.

[0108] It may be advantageous if the aperture is accessible in the connected state of the components.

[0109] Preferably, a securing element, in particular a securing pin, can be introduced into the through-opening in order to secure the connecting element in the retaining position and thus the components in the connected state.

[0110] Preferably, in the connected state of the components, the through-opening is accessible through a side wall extending transversely, in particular at least approximately perpendicularly, to the contact surface of the components.

[0111] In particular, it can be provided that for this purpose at least one component comprises a lateral aperture (access opening) through which the aperture of the connecting element is accessible.

[0112] The first connecting element and the second connecting element are preferably connected to one another in the connected state of the components.

[0113] The first connecting element preferably comprises a retaining element.

[0114] The second connecting element and / or the second component preferably comprises a receptacle for the retaining element.

[0115] It may be advantageous if the retaining element comprises a first retaining contour which, in the retaining position, engages behind a second retaining contour arranged on the second connecting element and / or the second component.

[0116] The first connecting element preferably comprises a substantially planar contact surface which can be placed against the second connecting element and / or which is arranged facing the second connecting element.

[0117] The second connecting element preferably comprises a substantially planar contact surface which can be placed against the first connecting element and / or which is arranged facing the first connecting element.

[0118] This essentially planar abutment surface of the first connecting element, in the connected state of the components, is essentially parallel to a contact surface of the components, at which the components abut against one another or which is arranged facing the respective other component.

[0119] This substantially planar abutment surface of the second connecting element, in the connected state of the components, is substantially parallel to a contact surface of the components at which the components abut against one another or which is arranged facing the respective other component.

[0120] The at least one retaining projection preferably has a substantially rectangular or substantially trapezoidal cross section.

[0121] It may be advantageous if at least one retaining projection tapers with increasing distance from the base body of the respective connecting element.

[0122] It may be advantageous if at least one retaining projection adjoins the curved contact surface of the base body of the respective connecting element substantially flush with the surface.

[0123] In one embodiment of the present invention, the connecting device may include a magnetic element which can be driven for rotational movement and / or linear movement inside the connecting device by means of a time-varying driving magnetic field affecting the magnetic element from outside the connecting device.

[0124] The at least one retaining element can be driven for a rotational and / or linear movement relative to a housing or a base body of the connecting element, preferably by means of a magnetic element.

[0125] The magnetic element is preferably arranged within a housing or a base body of the connecting element.

[0126] It can be provided that the connecting device comprises a plurality of magnetic elements which are arranged in particular in one connecting element or in a plurality of connecting elements.

[0127] It may be advantageous if the magnetic element is cyclically drivable, so that at least one retaining element of the connecting device can be repeatedly actuated by means of the magnetic element, in particular can be brought stepwise into a release position and / or a retaining position.

[0128] For example, it can be provided that a retaining element which is designed as a screw-engaging element can be driven, in particular screwed in and / or unscrewed, by means of the magnetic element.

[0129] In one embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the connecting device comprises two connecting elements. The first connecting element preferably comprises a magnetic element and a retaining element, in particular a screw connection.

[0130] The second connecting element preferably comprises a receptacle for the retaining element, in particular a threaded element.

[0131] It can be advantageous if the connecting element comprises a receptacle for a retaining element of the connecting device, wherein the receptacle is preferably mounted so as to be movable, in particular displaceable, relative to a housing or a base body of the connecting element.

[0132] The receptacle is preferably arranged and / or mounted so as to be displaceable substantially parallel to the contact surface of the component.

[0133] For example, it can be provided that the receptacle for the retaining element is designed as an insert nut or comprises an insert nut.

[0134] The one or more connecting elements can preferably be arranged substantially completely in the groove of the component, so that the connecting element or the connecting elements do not protrude beyond the contact surface of the component.

[0135] In the connected state of the components, the first connecting element and the second connecting element are preferably connected to one another in a force-fitting, form-fitting and / or materially bonding manner, for example are adhesively bonded.

[0136] Alternatively or in addition to the above-mentioned features, a connecting device for connecting two components, in particular for connecting furniture or machine parts, may, for example, have at least one connecting element, which includes a retaining element for establishing a connection between the two components and a storage device for storing the retaining energy of the retaining element.

[0137] Preferably, the storage device can be supplied with holding energy before the connection between the two components is produced.

[0138] The supplied holding energy can preferably be stored by means of the storage device until the connection is established.

[0139] It may be advantageous if the storage device can be actuated when and / or in order to establish the connection between the two components so that the holding element is brought into the holding position using holding energy.

[0140] In particular, it can be provided that the storage device can be operated by means of a further connecting element and / or a further component.

[0141] It may be advantageous if the storage device comprises locking means for locking the elastic device in the prestressed position.

[0142] In particular, a spring force of a holding element designed as an elastic element can be stored in this way.

[0143] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the at least one elastic element can be prestressed by means of a locking element, wherein the locking element can preferably be actuated, in particular displaced and / or moved into a release position, for connecting the connecting element.

[0144] It may be advantageous if the storage device comprises two elastic elements which are stressed in opposite directions.

[0145] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the storage device can be supplied with holding energy before, during and / or after the connecting element is installed in the component.

[0146] For example, it can be provided that the elastic means can be brought into a prestressed position and can be locked in the prestressed position before, during and / or after the connecting element is installed in the component.

[0147] It can be provided that the connecting device comprises two or more connecting elements which form groove spring means, in particular self-locking groove spring means which can be operated by pivoting.

[0148] It may be advantageous if the connecting device comprises two or more connecting elements which form a groove spring device, wherein the connecting elements can be brought into engagement with one another by a rotational movement and / or a push-in movement, for example in a connecting direction.

[0149] The connecting device preferably comprises one or more connecting elements which can be introduced through a through-hole in one component from the side facing away from the other component to another connecting element and can be connected to the other connecting element, in particular screwed.

[0150] It may be advantageous if the connecting device forms a guiding means for guiding the components relative to one another, wherein the connecting element comprises a guiding groove and / or wherein the connecting element comprises a guiding element.

[0151] Preferably, the guide element is movable together with the associated component along the guide groove relative to the other component, in particular linearly displaceable.

[0152] The guide groove is preferably of essentially linear design.

[0153] It can be provided that the guide groove comprises a guide section at which the guide element engages the guide groove at the rear.

[0154] In particular, it can be provided that the guide groove comprises a rear engagement section, on which the guide element can act.

[0155] In one embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the guide groove is substantially T-shaped.

[0156] The guide groove comprises, for example, a slotted guide for guiding the guide element along a predetermined guide path.

[0157] The guide path preferably has a varying distance along the guide groove to the contact surface of the component and / or the contact surface of the connecting element.

[0158] It can be provided that the guide path has two maximum areas with at least local, in particular overall, maximum distances to the contact surface of the component and / or the contact surface of the connecting element.

[0159] Furthermore, it can be provided that the guide path has a minimum area with a local or overall minimum distance to the contact surface of the component and / or the contact surface of the connecting element.

[0160] It may be advantageous if the guide path has a minimum area arranged between the maximum areas and having a local minimum distance to the contact surface of the component and / or the abutment surface of the connecting element, and a terminal area (Auslaufbereich) arranged adjacent to the maximum area and facing away from the minimum area and having a gradually decreasing distance to the contact surface of the component and / or the abutment surface of the connecting element.

[0161] The guide element and / or the guide groove preferably comprises one or more bearing elements, in particular sliding elements and / or roller elements, in order to support the components in a relatively displaceable manner.

[0162] For example, it can be provided that the guide element comprises two roller pairs which are arranged displaceably, in particular rollably, in a substantially T-shaped guide groove.

[0163] In particular, a sliding door fitting can be provided by means of such a connecting device.

[0164] It may be advantageous if the connecting device comprises at least one sliding element and / or at least one roller element which slides along the components and / or rolls on the components when the components are moved relative to one another.

[0165] The connecting element is preferably designed as a running surface of the component The moving element of the connecting element of the other component can move along the working surface.

[0166] In particular, it can be provided that at least one movement element of the connecting element of the other component can roll and / or move, in particular slide, on the working surface.

[0167] The working surface is preferably a contact surface of a component and / or a contact surface of a connecting element.

[0168] It may be advantageous if the connecting device comprises positioning means for positioning two components, in particular two connecting elements, relative to one another.

[0169] The positioning means preferably comprises at least one movable, flexible, elastic and / or spring-loaded mounted positioning element.

[0170] The at least one component and / or the at least one connecting element preferably comprises at least one positioning element receptacle for receiving the at least one positioning element.

[0171] It may be advantageous if at least one positioning element extends into the at least one positioning element receptacle in a holding position in which the components are positioned relative to one another by means of the positioning means.

[0172] The at least one positioning element preferably projects beyond the contact surface and / or the contact surface in the connected state, in particular in the holding position.

[0173] It may be advantageous if the at least one positioning element tapers as the distance from the abutment surface and / or the contact surface increases.

[0174] For example, it can be provided that the positioning element is designed in the shape of a sphere, a spherical sector, a spherical segment (sometimes referred to as a spherical dome) and / or a cone.

[0175] The at least one positioning element receptacle is preferably designed to be substantially complementary to the at least one positioning element at least in sections.

[0176] For example, it can be provided that at least one positioning element receptacle is designed in the shape of a sphere, a spherical sector, a spherical segment and / or a cone.

[0177] By actuating at least one positioning element of the positioning means and / or during actuation of at least one positioning element of the positioning means, the components are preferably movable relative to one another.

[0178] In particular, it can be provided that the positioning element is supported in a spring-loaded manner and can be brought from a holding position in which the positioning element projects beyond the abutment surface and / or the contact surface into a release position in which the positioning element does not project beyond the abutment surface and / or the contact surface. In particular, two components directly adjacent to one another can then be moved substantially freely relative to one another.

[0179] As soon as the positioning element and the positioning element receptacle are arranged opposite one another with respect to the contact surface and / or the abutment surface, the positioning element can preferably be sprung outward and engage with the positioning element receptacle in order to position the components relative to one another.

[0180] In one design scheme of the present invention, it is provided that the connecting device includes a hinge element, which is fixed or fixable on a first component, in particular, fixed or fixable on a connecting element at the first component, and is fixed or fixable on a second component, in particular, fixed or fixable on a connecting element at the second component.

[0181] At least one connecting element preferably comprises a displaceable locking element, which is in particular displaceable relative to a base body of the connecting element.

[0182] The locking element is preferably movable magnetically, in particular by magnetic drive of a drive shaft coupled to the locking element.

[0183] The drive shaft is preferably coupled to the locking element by means of a gear mechanism.

[0184] It may be advantageous if the locking element can be introduced into a locking receptacle which is complementarily designed at least in sections in a further component and / or a further connecting element, in particular by magnetic displacement of the locking element.

[0185] The drive shaft preferably comprises or forms at least one magnetic element and can be actuated, in particular, from outside the connecting device by means of a drive magnetic field.

[0186] Preferably, the component in which the connecting element, on which the movable locking element is arranged, is arranged has a locking receptacle. The locking element can preferably be arranged in the release position in the locking receptacle.

[0187] Preferably, the locking element can be arranged in a locking receptacle of one component in a release position on the one hand and in a locking receptacle of another component in a retaining position (locking position) on the other hand.

[0188] The connecting device preferably comprises at least two connecting elements which are arranged or can be arranged on components different from one another and which each comprise at least one magnetic element and / or at least one magnetizable element.

[0189] The components can preferably be connected to one another by magnetic attraction between the at least two magnetic elements or between the at least one magnetic element and the at least one magnetizable element.

[0190] It may be advantageous if the connecting element or connecting elements comprise one or more bevel-driven screw couplings.

[0191] The movable or displaceable retaining element is preferably designed as a screw element which can be actuated by means of a drive screw which can be actuated via a side access.

[0192] The helical engagement device of the bevel drive preferably comprises a driving helical engagement member and a connecting helical engagement member. The connecting helical engagement member is preferably used for the direct connection between a connecting element and another connecting element or another component. The driving helical engagement member is particularly used for operating the connecting helical engagement member.

[0193] It may be advantageous if the connecting device, in particular at least one connecting element thereof, comprises a movable retaining element which can be moved into a release position by application of force in a transverse direction extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the connecting direction.

[0194] In particular, it can be provided that the movable holding element can be moved in a predetermined direction into the release position by displacement of the components relative to one another.

[0195] The connecting device, in particular the retaining element and / or at least one connecting element preferably comprises at least one ramp, by means of which the movable retaining element can be moved along the connecting direction by application of force in a transverse direction extending transversely to, in particular perpendicularly to, the connecting direction.

[0196] The retaining element is designed, for example, as a locking hook.

[0197] It may be advantageous if the retaining element engages at the rear in a detent recess in the other component and / or in the other connecting element.

[0198] In particular, it can be provided that the holding element, in the connected state of the components, is supported with respect to the direction of gravity on the other component and / or on a connecting element arranged in the other component.

[0199] The connecting device preferably includes a movable retaining element, which is supported on another component and / or a connecting element in the other component when force is applied in a first transverse direction and can be moved into a release position when force is applied in a second transverse direction opposite to the first transverse direction.

[0200] The retaining element is preferably designed to be loaded by the spring element.

[0201] In particular, it can be provided that the holding element can be autonomously and / or automatically brought into, in particular locked into, a holding position (locking position).

[0202] The at least one connecting element is preferably insertable into a groove provided on one of the components and having a curved undercut surface which is in the form of a circular arc in longitudinal section. The at least one connecting element preferably comprises an enveloping engaging section which envelops the component at a side of the component extending transversely, in particular substantially perpendicularly, to the contact surface.

[0203] The at least one connecting element preferably further comprises at least one projection which can engage with a recess in the other component in order to fix the other component to the first component and / or to a base structure.

[0204] The at least one connecting element and the at least one component, preferably both components, can preferably be fastened together to the base structure, in particular can be screwably connected to the base structure.

[0205] The base structure is, for example, a floor covering or a wall panel. Support structure (Unterkonstruktion).

[0206] The connecting element preferably serves as a spacer between two components and / or between at least one component and a base structure.

[0207] It may be advantageous if one or more connecting elements respectively comprise a plurality of spring elements and / or a plurality of stop elements having different lengths.

[0208] The spring element and / or the locking element can preferably be brought into engagement with a spring receptacle and / or a locking receptacle of the other component and / or of the connecting element in the other component.

[0209] It may be advantageous that a plurality of elastic elements and / or stop elements may engage with the elastic element receiving portion and / or the stop receiving portion in sequence along the connection direction when the components move relative to each other. Then, preferably, a stronger locking of the components with increasing insertion path (along the connection direction) is caused.

[0210] It may be advantageous if the connecting device comprises two connecting elements which each comprise one or more elastic elements and / or locking elements and / or each comprise one or more elastic element receptacles and / or locking element receptacles.

[0211] In one design of the present invention, it can be provided that the elastic elements and / or stop elements arranged adjacent to each other have elastic noses and / or stop noses, which extend away from the elastic elements and / or stop elements in different directions, in particular in opposite directions.

[0212] The connecting device preferably comprises at least one connecting element which comprises one or more sequences of spring elements and / or locking elements.

[0213] For example, it can be provided that at least one spring and / or stop element of a sequence of spring and / or stop elements comprises a spring nose and / or a stop nose which is arranged along a circular arc path.

[0214] In particular, it can be provided that at least one connecting element comprises two sequences of elastic elements and / or stop elements, which are arranged side by side and / or spaced apart from one another with respect to the thickness direction of the connecting element. The elastic noses and / or stop noses of the two sequences of elastic elements and / or stop elements can thus preferably be moved towards one another, in particular to bring the connecting device into a holding position.

[0215] Preferably, the elastic element and / or the stop element are constructed and / or arranged in such a way that the elastic nose and / or the stop nose can be brought into one or more arc-shaped undercut sections of the groove, which groove comprises a base section and one or more undercut sections extending away from the base section in the thickness direction, wherein the groove preferably has a curved undercut surface which is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section.

[0216] The grooves in both components are preferably designed to be substantially identical in order to accommodate the connecting element on the one hand and to latch the spring element and / or the locking element on the other hand.

[0217] It may be advantageous if the connecting device, in particular one or more connecting elements, comprises self-locking spring means and / or clamping means.

[0218] The self-locking spring means and / or clamping means preferably comprise one or more clamping elements which are oriented obliquely to the connecting direction and / or which, starting from the base body of the connecting element, point away from the contact surface of the connecting element.

[0219] The clamping element or the clamping elements are preferably flexibly, elastically and / or spring-loaded and / or are flexibly, elastically and / or spring-loaded arranged on the base body and / or the housing of the connecting element.

[0220] Preferably, a plurality of clamping elements are arranged on both sides of a receptacle for a clamping projection of a further component or a connecting element.

[0221] When the clamping projection of the other component or the connecting element is pushed in, the clamping element or clamping elements are preferably pushed apart laterally and / or in the insertion direction.

[0222] When the clamping projection is pulled out, the clamping element or elements are pressed, preferably laterally, against the clamping projection.

[0223] The one or more clamping elements preferably comprise at least one clamping section made of a material having a high coefficient of friction, in particular a high static friction.

[0224] Furthermore, it can be provided that the one or more clamping elements are formed from a material having a high coefficient of friction, in particular a high static friction.

[0225] In another embodiment of the present invention, it can be provided that the connecting device comprises self-locking elastic means and / or clamping means for fixing one or more connecting elements on and / or in one or more components.

[0226] Furthermore, one or more clamping elements are preferably arranged and / or formed on the inside and / or outside of the outer side of the base body or housing of the connecting element.

[0227] It can be provided that the connecting device comprises at least one locking element and at least one operating element for operating the at least one locking element, wherein the at least one locking element and the at least one operating element are preferably arranged on different components and / or connecting elements.

[0228] In this context, actuation may be understood to mean, in particular, a movement of the at least one locking element into a holding position in order to connect the two components and / or a movement into a release position in order to release and separate the components from one another.

[0229] The locking element can be a retaining element, for example.

[0230] Alternatively or in addition thereto, however, it can also be provided that at least one locking element is an element different from the retaining element.

[0231] Preferably, the at least one locking element can be actuated by rotating the at least one actuating element.

[0232] It may be advantageous if the at least one operating element is an eccentric element or comprises an eccentric element.

[0233] By means of the eccentric element, two or more locking elements can preferably be moved away from one another, in particular in order to bring the two or more locking elements into engagement with the locking receptacle.

[0234] It can be advantageous if the at least one operating element is accessible from one side of the connecting element, in particular through a perforation (access opening) in a side wall of the base or housing of the connecting element. The outer surface of the side wall is preferably oriented transversely, in particular substantially perpendicularly, to the contact surface and / or the abutment surface.

[0235] By means of the at least one operating element, a rear engagement section of the locking element in the connecting element can preferably be moved, in particular in order to bring the rear engagement section into engagement with a rear engagement receptacle assigned thereto.

[0236] At least one connecting element preferably comprises one or more stop elements and / or clamping elements having a substantially circular or circle-segment-shaped (sometimes referred to as arcuate) cross section taken parallel to the connecting direction.

[0237] The locking element and / or the clamping element is preferably spherical or plate-shaped with a circular or circle-segment-shaped cross section.

[0238] It can be provided that the locking element and / or the clamping element have different distances from one another to the contact surface of the connecting element and / or the contact surface of the component.

[0239] The locking element and / or the clamping element can preferably be received in a receptacle which is designed complementarily at least in sections in another component and / or another connecting element.

[0240] Preferably, the locking element and / or the clamping element and / or the receptacle are flexibly, elastically, reversibly deformably and / or spring-loaded in design and / or arrangement.

[0241] It can be provided that the connecting device has at least one connecting element which can be introduced into a groove in the component and has a curved support surface which is in the form of a circular arc in longitudinal section.

[0242] It can be provided that the support surface adjoins the contact surface of the component on both sides. The contact surface then preferably delimits the arc-shaped longitudinal section on both sides.

[0243] The groove is preferably designed in the form of a circular segment, wherein the circular segment is limited by the circular arc-shaped groove bottom surface and the other limit of the circular segment is the contact surface.

[0244] However, it can also be provided that the groove is designed as a partial groove.

[0245] The support surface adjoins the contact surface of the component, for example, only on one side. The side of the support surface facing away from the contact surface then preferably ends at a surface of the component that is different from the contact surface or ends inside the component.

[0246] In the present description and the appended claims, a side edge of the support surface is to be understood in particular as an end which delimits the support surface along a circular arc-shaped longitudinal section.

[0247] It may be advantageous if the connecting device comprises two connecting elements which are designed as hinge elements and / or are provided with hinge elements. The connecting elements may be arranged, for example, in partial grooves.

[0248] Preferably, two partial grooves can be produced in the two components, in particular one partial groove in each respective component, by the components being placed against one another and provided with a single continuous groove which extends, in particular halfway, into both components.

[0249] The invention further relates to a method for connecting two components.

[0250] To this end, the object of the present invention is to provide a method by means of which two components can be connected to one another in a simple and stable manner.

[0251] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method for connecting two components, in particular furniture or machine parts, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0252] Provide a connection device, in particular a connection device according to the present invention;

[0253] inserting a connecting element into one of the components;

[0254] The connecting element is connected to another component, in particular to a further connecting element which is arranged on or in the other component.

[0255] The method according to the invention preferably has one or more of the features and / or advantages described in conjunction with the connecting device according to the invention.

[0256] In order to construct advantageous embodiments of the invention, one or more of the features described in the present description and the appended claims may be provided or deleted in any combination with other features or independently of other features. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0257] Further preferred features and / or advantages of the invention are the subject of the following description and of the drawings showing exemplary embodiments.

[0258] in,

[0259] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view shows two components which can be connected to one another by means of a connecting device and which for this purpose comprise two grooves with undercut sections;

[0260] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 A partially transparent schematic diagram of a component;

[0261] Figure 3 Shown through Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of one of the components;

[0262] Figure 4 Show Figure 3 A schematic partially transparent side view of a component of;

[0263] Figure 5 A schematic perspective view shows a first embodiment of a connecting device, in which a connecting element which can be inserted into a groove and a connecting element which is designed as a screw-engaging element are provided;

[0264] Figure 6 Shown through Figure 5 A schematic longitudinal sectional view of a connecting device;

[0265] Figure 7 Show Figure 5A schematic perspective view of a base body of a connecting element that can be pushed into a groove;

[0266] Figure 8 Show Figure 5 A schematic perspective view of a movable retaining element of a connecting element that can be pushed into a groove;

[0267] Fig. 9 Show Figure 5 A schematic side view of a connecting element configured as a screw-joint element;

[0268] Fig.10 A schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of a connecting element is shown, wherein a connecting element which can be pushed into a groove of one component and a connecting element which can be placed on another component are provided;

[0269] Fig.11 Show Fig.10 A schematic partially transparent side view of a connecting device together with components connected by means of the connecting device;

[0270] Fig.12 Show Fig.10 A schematic perspective view of a connecting element of a connecting device that can be pushed into a groove;

[0271] Fig.13 Show Fig.10 A schematic perspective view of a connecting element of a connecting device that can be placed on a component;

[0272] Fig.14 Show Fig.11 A schematic partially transparent side view of a component provided with a groove and a connecting element arranged in the groove;

[0273] Fig.15 Show Fig.11 A schematic partially transparent schematic diagram of another component and another connecting element mounted thereon;

[0274] Fig.16 A schematic perspective view shows a third embodiment of a connecting device, in which a connecting element is provided which can be screwed into a component for receiving a T-shaped retaining element;

[0275] Fig.17 Show Fig.16 A schematic longitudinal sectional view of a connecting device;

[0276] Fig.18 A schematic perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a connecting device is shown, in which two connecting elements are provided for each component, which can be fixed relative to each other by means of locking means;

[0277] Fig.19 Show Fig.18A schematic partially transparent side view of a connection device;

[0278] Fig. 20 Shown along Fig.19 Lines 20-22 pass through Fig.18 A schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting device;

[0279] Fig.21 A schematic side view is shown for illustration purposes Fig.18 Installation of the connecting elements of the connecting device in the component;

[0280] Fig. 22 The two connecting elements are shown in a state where they are mounted on a component. Fig.21 Schematic diagram of

[0281] Fig.23 shows a schematic perspective exploded view of a fifth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a holding element is provided which can be linearly driven by means of a magnetic element;

[0282] Fig.24 Shown in Fig.23 The connection device is in a separated state when passing through Fig.23 A schematic vertical longitudinal sectional view of a connecting device;

[0283] Fig.25 Shown in Fig.23 The connection device is connected in the connected state through Fig.23 Another schematic vertical longitudinal sectional view of the connecting device;

[0284] Fig.26 Shown in Fig.23 The connection device is connected in the connected state through Fig.23 A schematic vertical cross-sectional view of a connecting device;

[0285] Fig. 27 shows a schematic vertical longitudinal section through a sixth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a holding element which can be rotationally driven by means of a magnetic element and a receptacle for the holding element which is movably mounted are provided;

[0286] Fig.28 Shown along Fig. 27 A schematic cross-sectional view of line 28-28 passing through a connecting element including a magnetic element and a retaining element;

[0287] Fig.29 shows a schematic vertical longitudinal section through a seventh embodiment of a connecting device, in which a storage device for storing the holding energy of a holding element is provided, wherein the storage device is in a storage state;

[0288] Fig.30Show Fig.29 The connection device corresponds to Fig.29 Schematic diagram of a memory device in which the memory device is in an unloaded and / or relaxed state;

[0289] Fig.31 shows a schematic vertical longitudinal section through an eighth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a retaining element is provided which can be moved linearly by means of elastic means;

[0290] Fig.32 shows a schematic cross-section through three components which are connected to one another by means of connecting elements of a ninth embodiment of a connecting device, wherein the connecting elements are connected to one another by means of a grooved spring element device;

[0291] Fig.33 The components of the connecting device and the corresponding components of the connecting device are shown in the disconnected state of the connecting element of the connecting device. Fig.32 Schematic diagram of

[0292] Fig.34 Show Fig.32 An enlarged schematic diagram of region XXXIV in FIG.

[0293] Fig.35 A schematic perspective transparent illustration of a connecting element showing a tenth embodiment of a connecting device, wherein the connecting element is insertable into a groove in one component and accessible through a through-hole in another component;

[0294] Fig.36 Shows two components and a Fig.35 A schematic partially transparent side view of a connection device;

[0295] Fig.37 A schematic perspective view showing a component having a groove, Fig.35 A connecting element is arranged in the groove and is provided with a screw engagement element;

[0296] Fig.38 a schematic perspective view showing an eleventh embodiment of a connecting device, wherein the connecting device forms a guide means for guiding the components relative to each other;

[0297] Fig.39 Shown through Fig.38 A schematic vertical cross-sectional view of a connecting device;

[0298] Fig.40 A schematic perspective view showing a twelfth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a connecting element provided with roller elements is provided, which connecting element can be moved along a guide groove of another connecting element of the connecting device;

[0299] Fig.41 Shown through two Fig.40 A schematic vertical cross-sectional view of components connected to each other by connecting elements;

[0300] Fig.42 A schematic, partly transparent side view shows a thirteenth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a connecting element is provided which is provided with rollers by means of which one component can be moved relative to the other component;

[0301] Fig.43 Show Fig.42 A schematic vertical cross-sectional view of a connecting device and two components;

[0302] Fig.44 a schematic partially transparent side view showing a fourteenth embodiment of a through connection device, in which positioning means are provided for simplifying the positioning of the connection element;

[0303] Fig.45 Show Fig.44 An enlarged schematic diagram of region XLV in FIG.

[0304] Fig.46 Show Fig.44 A schematic perspective view of a connecting device;

[0305] Fig.47 shows a schematic side view of a fifteenth embodiment of a connecting device, wherein the connecting device forms a hinge, in particular a door hinge;

[0306] Fig.48 A schematic top view of a contact surface of a component is shown, in which a contact surface is arranged. Fig.47 A connecting element of a connecting device, wherein a hinge element is arranged at the connecting element;

[0307] Fig.49 Show with the help of Fig.47 A schematic vertical cross-sectional view of two components connected to each other by a connecting device;

[0308] Fig.50 shows a schematic vertical cross-section through a sixteenth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a magnetically movable locking element is provided;

[0309] Fig.51 Shown through Fig.50 A schematic vertical longitudinal sectional view of a connecting element of a connecting device provided with a locking element;

[0310] Fig.52 A schematic perspective view showing a locking element and a drive shaft for driving the locking element;

[0311] Fig.53 Show Fig.52A schematic cross-sectional view of a drive shaft and a locking element;

[0312] Fig.54 shows a schematic cross-sectional view through a seventeenth embodiment of a connecting device and two components connected to one another by means of the connecting device, wherein the connecting device comprises two elements that interact magnetically;

[0313] Fig.55 A schematic perspective view shows an eighteenth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a retaining element is provided which is designed as a helical coupling with an angular drive;

[0314] Fig.56 Shown through Fig.55 A schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting device and components connected to each other by means of the connecting device;

[0315] Fig.57 shows a schematic cross-section through a nineteenth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a retaining element designed as a spring-loaded latching hook is provided for connecting two connecting elements;

[0316] Fig.58 A schematic perspective view of a twentieth embodiment of a connecting device is shown, in which a connecting element designed as a platform connector is provided;

[0317] Fig.59 Show that you can use Fig.58 A schematic perspective view of a component fixed to a base structure by a connecting device;

[0318] Fig.60 Shown through Fig.58 A schematic vertical cross-sectional view of a connecting device and two components fixed to a base structure by means of the connecting device;

[0319] Fig.61 shows a schematic cross-section through a twenty-first embodiment of a connecting device, in which a connecting element provided with a locking element is provided;

[0320] Fig.62 Shown through Fig.61 A schematic longitudinal sectional view of a connecting device;

[0321] Fig.63 a schematic, partly transparent side view showing a twenty-second embodiment of a connecting device, in which a spring element with stop noses arranged in a circular arc sequence is provided;

[0322] Fig.64 Shows the components passing through when connected to each other Fig.63 A schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting device and two components to be connected to each other;

[0323] Fig.65 Shown along Fig.64 The line 65-65 passes through Fig.64 Schematic cross-sectional view of the connection device and components;

[0324] Fig.66 Shows the connection device and components corresponding to Fig.64 Schematic diagram of a device, wherein the components are connected to each other by means of the connecting device;

[0325] Fig.67 The components and the connecting device are shown in the connected state. Fig.65 Schematic diagram of

[0326] Fig.68 shows a schematic vertical longitudinal section through a twenty-third embodiment of a connecting device, in which a connecting element provided with a retaining element and a further connecting element provided with an operating element for operating the retaining element are provided;

[0327] Fig.69 Show Fig.68 The connection device corresponds to Fig.68 Schematic diagram of a device in which the connecting elements are placed against each other;

[0328] Fig.70 Shows the connected state of the connection element Fig.68 The connection device corresponds to Fig.68 Schematic diagram of

[0329] Fig.71 shows a schematic vertical longitudinal section through a twenty-fourth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a resilient clamping element is provided for fixing the clamping projection;

[0330] Fig.72 Shown through Fig.71 A schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting device;

[0331] Fig.73 Show Fig.71 The connection device corresponds to the clamping projection when it is pushed between the clamping elements. Fig.71 Schematic diagram of

[0332] Fig.74 Shows the connected state of the connection element Fig.71 The connection device corresponds to Fig.71 Schematic diagram of

[0333] Fig.75 a schematic perspective transparent illustration of a twenty-fifth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a spherical stop element is provided;

[0334] Fig.76 a schematic perspective transparent illustration of a twenty-sixth embodiment of a connecting device, in which a cylindrical stop element is provided;

[0335] Fig.77 Show Fig.76 A schematic side view of a connecting device;

[0336] Fig.78 Shows the connection element in the connected state. Fig.76 A schematic longitudinal sectional view of a connecting device;

[0337] Fig.79 A schematic perspective partially transparent schematic diagram showing a component provided with a partial groove;

[0338] Fig.80 Shown through Fig.79 A schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of a component;

[0339] Fig.81 A schematic longitudinal section showing a twenty-seventh embodiment of the connection device, in which a locking element configured as an abutment element is provided with a locking device;

[0340] Fig.82 a schematic perspective view showing a twenty-eighth embodiment of a connecting device, in which two connecting elements are provided which can be inserted into the groove and can be fixed relative to each other by means of a sliding guide;

[0341] Fig.83 Show Fig.82 A schematic side view of a connecting device;

[0342] Fig.84 Show Fig.82 Another schematic side view of the connecting device;

[0343] Fig.85 Shown through Fig.82 A schematic longitudinal sectional view of a connecting element of a connecting device, the connecting element comprising a slide guide;

[0344] Fig.86 Shows the connected state of the connection element Fig.82 A schematic partially transparent side view of a connection device;

[0345] Fig.87 Shown along Fig.86 Line 87-87 passes through Fig.82 A schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting device;

[0346] Fig.88The twenty-ninth embodiment of the connecting device is shown corresponding to Fig.82 Schematic perspective view of a connecting element with only one retaining projection;

[0347] Fig.89 Show Fig.88 The connection device corresponds to Fig.83 Schematic diagram of

[0348] Fig.90 Show Fig.88 The connection device corresponds to Fig.84 Schematic diagram of

[0349] Fig.91 Show Fig.88 The connection device corresponds to Fig.86 Schematic diagram of

[0350] Fig.92 Shown along Fig.91 Line 92-92 passes through Fig.88 A schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting device;

[0351] Fig.93 The thirtieth embodiment of the connecting device is shown corresponding to Fig.82 A schematic perspective view of a device in which a connecting element that can be inserted into the component is provided;

[0352] Fig.94 Show Fig.93 The connection device corresponds to Fig.83 Schematic diagram of

[0353] Fig.95 Show Fig.93 The connection device corresponds to Fig.84 Schematic diagram of

[0354] Fig.96 Show Fig.93 The connection device corresponds to Fig.86 Schematic diagram of

[0355] Fig.97 Shown along Fig.96 Line 97-97 passes through Fig.93 A schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting device;

[0356] Fig.98 shows a schematic vertical longitudinal section through a thirty-first embodiment of a connecting device, which includes a hinge device with two connecting elements that can be arranged in partial grooves, wherein the hinge device is arranged in an open position; and

[0357] Fig.99 Shown through Fig.98The connection device corresponds to Fig.98 A longitudinal section through which the hinge device is arranged in a closed position.

[0358] Identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols in all figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0359] The connecting device, which is generally designated as 100, is used, for example, to connect a first substantially plate-shaped component 102 to a second substantially plate-shaped component 104 (see Figures 1 to 4 ).

[0360] These two components 102 and 104 are for example made of wood or plywood, but also can be made of any other material, for example made of metal material or synthetic material (for example organic glass (Plexiglas)).In addition, it is also possible to be arranged that the first component 102 and the second component 104 are made of mutually different materials.

[0361] In the connected state of the two components 102 and 104 , a contact surface 106 of the first component 102 which forms a narrow side of the first component 102 lies against a contact surface 108 of the second component 104 which forms a main surface of the second component 104 .

[0362] A groove 110 formed in the relevant component 102 or 104 opens at the respective contact surface 106 , 108 and comprises a cylindrical segment or cylindrical section-shaped base section 112 and two undercut sections 114 extending away from the base section 112 in a thickness direction 116 .

[0363] The curvature radius of the base section 112 is greater than the groove depth T (see Figure 4 ), so that the arched groove bottom surface 118 intersects the corresponding contact surface 106, 108 at an acute angle.

[0364] The base section 112 of the groove 110 has a width B in the thickness direction 116 of, for example, approximately 8 mm.

[0365] Each undercut section 114 of the groove 110 is delimited on its side facing away from the respective contact surface 106 or 108 by a bottom surface 120 flush with the groove bottom surface 118 , which is designed as a cylindrical surface segment and has the same radius of curvature as the groove bottom surface 118 of the base section 112 .

[0366] In the direction of the contact surface 106 or 108 , each undercut section 114 is delimited by an undercut surface 122 which is also in the form of a cylinder circumferential surface segment and is designed concentrically with the bottom surface 120 and has a smaller radius of curvature.

[0367] Each undercut section 114 is laterally delimited by lateral delimiting surfaces 124 which extend perpendicularly to the respective contact surface 106 or 108 .

[0368] The width b, ie the extension in the thickness direction 116 , for each undercut section 114 is, for example, approximately 1 mm.

[0369] For each undercut section 114 , the height h, ie, the distance between the bottom surface 120 and the undercut surface 122 , is, for example, approximately 2 mm.

[0370] The base section 112 of each groove 110 is delimited by lateral delimiting walls 126 which extend substantially perpendicularly to the respective contact surface 106 or 108 and which are spaced apart by the groove width B from one another.

[0371] For example, by Figure 3 As can be seen, a substantially cylindrical access opening 128 , in particular an access hole, extending perpendicularly to one of the lateral limiting walls 126 , opens into the groove 110 of the first component 102 , the other end of which opens into the main surface 129 of the first component 102 and thus enables access to the base section 112 of the groove 110 from the outside space of the first component 102 .

[0372] For forming the above-mentioned grooves 110 on components 102 and 104 , for example, a groove milling device as described in EP 1 990 549 A1 can be used.

[0373] In order to connect the components 102 , 104 to one another, one or more grooves 110 , in particular grooves 110 of the type described above, may be provided in the respective components 102 , 104 .

[0374] However, it can also be arranged that only one of the components 102, 104 is provided with one or more grooves 110, in particular grooves 110 of the above-mentioned type, while the other component 104, 102 does not include grooves 110 of the above-mentioned type, includes grooves 110 constructed in other ways, one or more holes, one or more recesses, one or more protrusions and / or one or more grooves, or the other component 104, 102 is not processed.

[0375] In the following, various embodiments of connecting devices 100 for connecting different components 102 , 104 , in particular different prefabricated components 102 , 104 , are described.

[0376] exist Figures 5 to 9 , a first embodiment of a connecting device 100 is shown, which comprises a connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 and a connecting element 130 which is designed as a screw connection element 132 .

[0377] The connecting element 130 that can be inserted into the groove 110 can preferably be understood as a connecting element 130 that can be inserted into the groove 110 including a base section 112 and one or more undercut sections 114 extending away from the base section 112 in the thickness direction 116. The one undercut section 114 or the multiple undercut sections 114 preferably have one or more undercut surfaces 122 that are constructed and arranged concentrically with the base section 112. The one undercut surface 122 or the multiple undercut surfaces 122 are particularly constructed in the form of a cylindrical circumferential surface segment.

[0378] The connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 preferably comprises a base body 134 which comprises a base part 136 corresponding to the base section 112 of the groove 110 and one or more retaining projections 138 corresponding to the undercut section 114 .

[0379] The retaining projections 138 each comprise a curved support surface 140 which is arc-shaped in longitudinal section.

[0380] The retaining projection 138 is in particular designed to be non-self-tapping.

[0381] Longitudinal section, longitudinal direction, etc. in this specification and the appended claims may be understood as a cross section or movement direction of the connecting element 130 in a plane in which the movement path of the connecting element 130 when the connecting element 130 is pushed into the groove 110 is located.

[0382] A longitudinal section is in particular a section which is taken perpendicularly to the axis of symmetry of the support surface 140 of the connecting element 130 .

[0383] A cross section is to be understood in particular to be a section taken perpendicularly to the longitudinal section, for example a section taken perpendicularly to the contact surfaces 106 , 108 and parallel to the axis of symmetry of the support surface 140 of the connecting element 130 .

[0384] The cross section is preferably a section along a plane in which the axis of symmetry of the support surface 140 of the connecting element 130 extends.

[0385] exist Figures 5 to 9 In the first embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 , the connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 comprises a retaining element 142 which is arranged on a base body 134 , in particular is rotatably mounted on the base body 134 .

[0386] The holding element 142 is arranged on the base body 134 in particular so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis 144 which extends parallel to the thickness direction 116 .

[0387] If in particular Figure 8As can be seen, the retaining element 142 comprises two engagement projections 146 which are designed in an arc shape and are arranged eccentrically with respect to the rotation axis 144 .

[0388] By means of the engagement projection 146 , an engagement section 148 of the connecting element 130 , in particular in the form of a screw engagement element 132 , can be grasped and pulled in the direction of the rotation axis 144 .

[0389] The connecting element 130 designed as a screw connection element 132 comprises, in addition to the connection section 148 , a stop 150 .

[0390] The screw element 132 can be securely fixed in the correct position on one of the components 102 , 104 by means of the stop 150 .

[0391] In particular, stop 150 can ensure that engagement section 148 , when screw element 132 is mounted on one of components 102 , 104 , projects far enough beyond contact surfaces 106 , 108 of components 102 , 104 to engage retaining element 142 .

[0392] In the mounted state of the connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 , the contact surfaces 106 , 108 of the components 102 , 104 and the contact surface 152 of the connecting element 130 are preferably substantially flush.

[0393] The connecting element 130 can preferably be connected to the components 102, 104 in a screw-joined manner, and the groove 110 is arranged at the components 102, 104. The base 134 of the connecting element 130 includes two through-holes 154 for the (not shown) screw-joint to pass through. In addition, the through-hole 154 is provided with a recess 156 so that the (not shown) screw-joint head can be accommodated within the outer contour of the base 134.

[0394] The connection between components 102 , 104 is established by means of connecting device 100 as follows:

[0395] First, the connecting element 130 , which is designed as a screw element 132 , is screwed into one of the components 102 , 104 until the stop 150 of the screw element 132 comes into contact with the contact surfaces 106 , 108 .

[0396] Then the other component 104, 102 is provided with a groove 110, in particular with Figures 1 to 4 The groove 110 is shown in FIG.

[0397] The connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 is then inserted into the groove 110 and fixed to the components 102 , 104 by means of a screw connection (not shown).

[0398] In the mounted state of the connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 , the retaining element 142 is accessible via a cylindrical access opening 128 previously introduced into the components 102 , 104 .

[0399] In the next step, the components 102 , 104 are placed relative to one another in such a way that the engagement section 148 of the screw engagement element 132 reaches into the receiving opening 158 corresponding thereto in the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 .

[0400] The components 102 , 104 then come to bear against one another with their contact surfaces 106 , 108 .

[0401] In order to fix the components 102 , 104 relative to one another, it is then only necessary to move the retaining element 142 from the initially adjusted release position into the retaining position.

[0402] For this purpose, a screw key (not shown) is brought into engagement with the screw key receptacle 160 of the retaining element 142 through the access opening 128. By rotating the screw key and thus also the retaining element 142 about the rotation axis 144, the retaining element 142 is then moved from the release position into the retaining position.

[0403] The engagement projection 146 engages behind an engagement section 148 of the screw engagement element 132 and pulls the engagement section 148 in the direction of the rotation axis 144 .

[0404] As a result, a tensile force is exerted on the components 102 , 104 , so that the components are fixedly connected to one another.

[0405] The connecting element 130 designed as a screw connection element 132 preferably has a substantially rotationally symmetrical connection section 148. In this way, the screw connection element 132 can always be reliably grasped by means of the retaining element 142, regardless of the rotational orientation.

[0406] The anchoring of the connecting element 130 including the connection section 148 can be accomplished on the one hand by means of the screw connection shown. However, as an alternative to this, screw-like pressing, gluing, screwing in by means of a Spax thread or a metric thread, fixing by means of a bolt, riveting and / or welding of the element with the connection section 148 can also be provided for fixing to the one component 102, 104.

[0407] exist Figures 10 to 15 The second embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 5 to 9 The difference to the first embodiment shown in is essentially that in addition to the connecting element 130 which can be pushed into the groove 110 , an essentially cuboid connecting element 130 is provided.

[0408] The cuboid connecting element 130 can be screwed to the contact surface 108 of the component 104 , in particular by means of two screw connections 162 .

[0409] The square connection element 130 includes two engagement protrusions 146 and a substantially semi-annular engagement channel 164 .

[0410] The connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 comprises a retaining element 142 which at least in sections has a substantially T-shaped cross section and therefore comprises an engagement section 148 .

[0411] The retaining element 142 can be introduced into the engagement channel 164 of the cuboid connecting element 130 , in particular by a rotational movement, and can engage with the engagement projection 146 .

[0412] The connecting element 130 which can be introduced into the groove 110 further comprises two insertion projections 166 which can be inserted into corresponding receiving recesses 168 in the cuboid connecting element 130 .

[0413] The insertion projection 166 and the receiving recess 168 preferably have a corrugated or wave-shaped surface in order to prevent the insertion projection 166 from shifting inside the receiving recess 168 .

[0414] If in particular Figures 11 to 14 As can be seen, the connecting element 130 which can be arranged in the groove 110 can preferably be arranged completely in the groove 110 .

[0415] The contact surface 152 of the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 is arranged offset to the rear relative to the contact surface 106 of the component 102 when the connecting element 130 is installed in the groove 110 .

[0416] In the connected state of the components 102 , 104 , the components 102 , 104 rest against one another with their contact surfaces 106 , 108 .

[0417] The cuboid connecting element 130 , which is fixed to the contact surface 108 of the second component 104 by means of a screw connection, then extends into the groove 110 in the first component 102 .

[0418] Therefore, already by pushing the square connecting element 130 into the groove 110 of the first component 102 , a secure fixing of the components 102 , 104 relative to one another in relation to the thickness direction 116 can be achieved.

[0419] By rotating the retaining element 142 using a screw wrench (not shown), the retaining element 142 can be brought into a retaining position in which the engagement section 148 engages the engagement projection 146 at the rear and the connecting element 130 and the components 102 , 104 are fixed with respect to a connecting direction 170 oriented perpendicularly to the contact surfaces 106 , 108 .

[0420] In addition Figures 10 to 15 The second embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 5 to 9 The first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is identical to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so that reference is made to the above description of the first embodiment in this regard.

[0421] exist Fig.16 and 17 The third embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 10 to 15 The difference between the second embodiment shown in 1 and 2 is essentially that in addition to the connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 , a connecting element 130 designed as a screw connection element 132 is provided.

[0422] The screw engagement element 132 can be screwed into one of the components 102 , 104 .

[0423] The square section 172 of the spiral engagement element 132 includes an engagement channel 164 and two engagement protrusions 146 .

[0424] Similar to Figures 10 to 15 The second embodiment shown in Fig.16 and 17 The third embodiment shown in the drawing also provides a connecting element 130 which can be placed on the contact surfaces 106, 108 of the components 102, 104, in particular can be connected in a screw-jointed manner, and into which a retaining element 142 having a substantially T-shaped cross-section and therefore including a joining section 148 can be inserted.

[0425] In addition Fig.16 and 17 The third embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 10 to 15 The present invention corresponds to the second embodiment shown in , so that reference is made to the above description of the second embodiment in this regard.

[0426] exist Figures 18 to 22 The fourth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 5 to 9 The difference between the first embodiment shown in 1 and 2 is that two connecting elements 130 are respectively associated with each of the components 102 , 104 , which can be inserted into the grooves 110 .

[0427] The grooves 110 in each component 102 , 104 are arranged so as to overlap, so that groove bases 118 of the grooves 110 within the respective component 102 , 104 intersect below the contact surfaces 106 , 108 or abut against one another.

[0428] exist Figures 18 to 22 In the fourth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 2 , two types of connecting elements 130 are provided.

[0429] On the one hand, connecting elements 130 are provided which each include two suspension elements 174 .

[0430] Furthermore, connecting elements 130 are provided which each include two suspension element receptacles 176 .

[0431] Both suspension element 174 and suspension element receptacle 176 each include at least one inclined surface 178 oriented obliquely to contact surface 152 and / or obliquely to contact surfaces 106 , 108 .

[0432] In addition, all the connecting elements 130 respectively include a locking protrusion 180 and a locking receiving portion 182.

[0433] The locking protrusion 180 and the locking receiving portion 182 form a locking device 184. The locking device 184 is particularly used to fix at least one connecting element 130 in the groove 110, and is particularly used to prevent the connecting element 130 from moving undesirably inside the groove 110.

[0434] The locking protrusion 180 of the connecting element 130 can be engaged with the locking receiving portion 182 of another connecting element 130 (see in particular Fig.21 and 22 ).

[0435] The locking protrusion 180 and the locking receptacle 182 of the connecting element 130 are preferably arranged in end regions 186 that are opposite to each other of the base body 134 , in particular of the supporting surface 140 .

[0436] If in particular Fig.19 As can be seen, the connecting elements 130 furthermore each comprise a perforation 188 which is arranged on the respective connecting element 130 in such a way that, in the connected state of the components 102 , 104 , the perforations 188 of two connecting elements 130 connected to one another are aligned with one another.

[0437] By introducing a locking element, in particular a locking pin, into the through-hole 188 , the connecting element 130 and thus also the components 102 , 104 can be locked to prevent the connecting element 130 and thus also the components 102 , 104 from undesired movement relative to each other.

[0438] If in particular Fig.19 As can be seen, in Figures 18 to 22 In the fourth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 , the connecting components 102, 104 are connected by means of the connecting element 130 not by rotating the retaining element 142. Rather, the components 102, 104 together with the connecting element 130 arranged thereon should first be moved toward each other so that the suspension element 174 is inserted into the suspension element receptacle 176 (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.18 ).

[0439] Components 102, 104 and connecting element 130 arranged therein are then displaced parallel to contact surfaces 106, 108. Suspension element 174 and inclined surfaces 178 of suspension element receptacle 176 thus engage with one another, so that connecting element 130 and thus also components 102, 104 can be pulled toward one another.

[0440] exist Figures 18 to 22 The fourth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for connecting frame members of a bed frame.

[0441] In addition Figures 18 to 22 The embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 5 to 9 The first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is identical to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so that reference is made to the above description of the first embodiment in this regard.

[0442] exist Figures 23 to 26 The fifth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 5 to 9 The difference to the first embodiment shown in is essentially that two connecting elements 130 are provided which can be inserted into the grooves 110 in each case.

[0443] In addition Figures 23 to 26 In the embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in , it is provided that the holding element 142 can be operated by means of a magnetic element 190, so that the holding element 142 can be brought from the release position into the holding position and / or from the holding position into the release position.

[0444] The magnetic element 190 is, in particular, an element which can be magnetically operated using magnetic means (not shown).

[0445] The magnetic element 190 can be linearly reciprocated, for example, by means of magnetic means.

[0446] The retaining element 142 preferably comprises a receptacle 192 for the magnetic element 190 .

[0447] One of the connecting elements 130 is preferably used to accommodate the retaining element 142 and the magnetic element 190 accommodated therein.

[0448] The connecting element 130 also comprises, in particular, a substantially slot-shaped guide 194 in the base body 134 .

[0449] The holding element 142 is movable along the slot-shaped guide 194 relative to the base body 134 .

[0450] The retaining element 142 further comprises two beveled surfaces 178 which can engage with engagement projections 146 in the other connecting element 130 .

[0451] The bevel 178 of the retaining element 142 thus forms the engagement section 148 of the retaining element 142 .

[0452] If in particular Fig.24 and 25 As concluded, according to Figures 23 to 26 The connecting element 130 of the fifth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in EMBODIMENT 1 comprises an insertion protrusion 166 and a receiving recess 168 .

[0453] When connecting elements 130 are connected to one another, first the insertion projection 166 is inserted into the receiving recess 168 .

[0454] The engagement section 148 , in particular the chamfer 178 , is simultaneously brought behind the engagement projection 146 with respect to the connecting direction 170 .

[0455] Finally, the abutment surface 152 of the connecting element 130 and the contact surfaces 106 , 108 of the components 102 , 104 come into contact with each other.

[0456] In order to fix the connecting element 130 and thus also the components 102 , 104 relative to one another along the connecting direction 170 , the magnetic element 190 is now actuated in a next step.

[0457] For this purpose, the magnetic means is brought into the vicinity of the connecting device 100 and the magnetic element 190 is accelerated within the receptacle 192 .

[0458] In this case, the magnetic element 190 is accelerated in particular repeatedly within the receptacle 192 and braked by striking against an end region of the receptacle 192 .

[0459] The receptacle 192 is delimited here on the one hand by a locking surface 196 and on the other hand by an unlocking surface 198 .

[0460] By the impact of the magnetic element 190 on the blocking surface 196 , the retaining element 142 is brought into a retaining position in which the engagement section 148 of the retaining element 142 engages behind the engagement projection 146 .

[0461] By the magnetic element 190 striking the unlocking surface 198 , the retaining element 142 is moved in the opposite direction and the engagement section 148 is thus disengaged from the engagement projection 146 .

[0462] The retaining element 142 can thus be brought optionally into a retaining position or into a release position.

[0463] The insertion projection 166 and the receiving recess 168 preferably prevent the magnetic element 190 from striking the locking surface 196 or the unlocking surface 198 , which would result in a displacement of the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 relative to one another.

[0464] exist Figures 23 to 26 The fifth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 can in particular offer the advantage that the components 102 , 104 can be connected to one another without any visual impairment. In particular, the access opening 128 can be unnecessary.

[0465] In addition Figures 23 to 26 The fifth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 5 to 9 The first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is identical to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so that reference is made to the above description of the first embodiment in this regard.

[0466] exist Fig. 27 and 28 The sixth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 23 to 26 The difference between the fifth embodiment shown in is essentially that the retaining element 142 is a screw-type retaining element 142 .

[0467] The magnetic element 190 can be driven to rotate by means of magnetic means, thereby operating the retaining element 142 in a targeted manner.

[0468] The retaining element 142 and the magnetic element 190 are arranged on a base body 134 of a connecting element 130 which can be introduced into the groove 110 .

[0469] The further connecting element 130 , which can preferably also be introduced into the groove 110 , preferably comprises a receptacle 200 for the screw-type retaining element 142 .

[0470] The receptacle 200 is, in particular, a nut.

[0471] The receptacle 200 is preferably arranged movably, in particular elastically, on the base body 134 of the further connecting element 130. For this purpose, in particular two elastic elements 202 are provided on the base body 134.

[0472] The main bodies 134 of the connecting elements 130 preferably each comprise a cover element 204 , by means of which an interior space 206 of the respective main body 134 can be closed.

[0473] In particular, the receptacle 200 , the magnetic element 190 and / or the screw-type retaining element 142 are accessible and / or can be removed from the respective basic body 134 by removing the respective cover element 204 .

[0474] If in particular Fig. 27 As can be seen, the connecting elements 130 preferably also include at least one protrusion 208, a corresponding groove 210 and / or at least one comb portion 212 and / or a corresponding groove portion 214, so as to align the connecting elements 130 with each other in all directions extending perpendicularly to the connecting direction 170.

[0475] With regard to such an operation of the holding element 142 by means of the magnetic element 190 and with regard to the operation of the magnetic element 190 by means of magnetic means, reference is made to WO 99 / 43961 A1, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference into the subject matter of the present description.

[0476] In addition Fig. 27 and 28 The sixth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 23 to 26 The present invention corresponds to the fifth embodiment shown in , so that reference is made to the above description of the fifth embodiment in this regard.

[0477] exist Fig.29 and 30 The seventh embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 23 to 26 The difference between the fifth embodiment shown in is essentially that the connecting elements 130 can be connected to one another by means of elastic elements 216 .

[0478] For this purpose, the elastic element 216 can in particular engage the engagement projection 146 at the rear.

[0479] The elastic element 216 and the engaging protrusion 146 are arranged at mutually different connecting elements 130 .

[0480] exist Fig.29 and 30 In the seventh embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 8 , a storage device 218 is provided, by means of which the holding energy or the holding force required for holding the connecting element 130 can be stored.

[0481] The storage device 218 comprises two storage elements 220 , which are formed in particular by a spring element 216 , and a blocking element 222 .

[0482] The elastic element 216 can be held in a prestressed position by means of the blocking element 222 (see Fig.29 ).

[0483] exist Fig.29 and 30 In the embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown, the holding energy and / or holding force required for holding the connecting element 130 and thus also the components 102 , 104 relative to one another can be applied and stored before the components 102 , 104 are actually connected to one another.

[0484] When the connecting elements 130 arranged at the components 102, 104 are connected to each other, the blocking element 222 is preferably connected by means of at least one engaging protrusion 146 from the Fig.29 The blocking position shown in Fig.30 The release position is shown in FIG.

[0485] The elastic elements 216 can thereby move toward each other and engage the engagement protrusion 146 at the rear.

[0486] exist Fig.29 and 30 The connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is in particular a closed, self-stressing connecting device 100 .

[0487] Preferably, the storage device 218 can be loaded before, during or after the connecting element 130 is installed in the components 102, 104. In particular, the blocking element 222 can be brought into the components 102, 104 at any time before the components 102, 104 are connected to each other. Fig.29 In the blocked position shown in .

[0488] In addition Fig.29 and 30 The seventh embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 23 to 26 The present invention corresponds to the fifth embodiment shown in , so that reference is made to the above description of the fifth embodiment in this regard.

[0489] exist Fig.31 The eighth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Fig.29 and 30 The difference between the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 is essentially that the elastic element 216 does not act directly on the engagement projection 146 , but rather operates the engagement section 148 of the substantially linearly movable retaining element 142 .

[0490] Preferred Fig.31 In the eighth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 2 , the storage device 218 can also be loaded by stressing the elastic element 216 , for example by locking the retaining element 142 and / or the elastic element 216 in a prestressed position.

[0491] When and / or by connecting the components 102 , 104 to one another, the stored force and / or energy is preferably released to fix the connecting element 130 relative to one another, in particular by engaging the engaging protrusion 146 at the rear with the engaging section 148 of the retaining element 142 .

[0492] In addition Fig.31 The eighth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.29 and 30 , so that reference is made to the above description of the seventh embodiment in this regard.

[0493] exist Figures 32 to 34 The ninth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 23 to 26 The difference between the fifth embodiment shown in is essentially that the connecting element 130 which can be pushed into the groove 110 comprises a groove spring means 224 .

[0494] The trench spring device 224 is formed in particular by a trench portion 226 and a spring portion 228 .

[0495] In this case, the groove part 226 and the spring part 228 are arranged and / or formed on mutually different connecting elements 130 .

[0496] If in particular Fig.32 and 33 As can be seen, the connecting element 130, in particular the groove portion 226 and the spring portion 228, can be brought into engagement with one another by pushing and pivoting the connecting element 130 and / or the components 102, 104 relative to one another.

[0497] Grooved spring element means 224 are used in particular here to anchor one component 102 to another component 104 without adhesive.

[0498] The groove spring element means 224 preferably acts here like a latching lock of a floor element of a click-in parquet or click-in laminate floor.

[0499] exist Figures 32 to 34 The ninth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for connecting a drawer front to a drawer box.

[0500] In addition Figures 32 to 34 The ninth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 23 to 26 The present invention corresponds to the fifth embodiment shown in , so that reference is made to the above description of the fifth embodiment in this regard.

[0501] exist Figures 35 to 37 The tenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 5 to 9 The difference to the first embodiment shown in is essentially that a connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 is provided which comprises one or more screw receptacles 230 .

[0502] The connecting element 130 , which is designed as a screw element 132 , can be releasably fixed in the screw receptacle 230 in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

[0503] In order to anchor the connecting element 130 in the component 102 in which the groove 110 is arranged, the connecting element 130 includes a corresponding Figures 5 to 9 The through hole 154 of the first embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. The connecting element 130 can thus be connected in particular by means of a (not shown) screw connection 162 (see, for example Fig.13 ) is fixed to the first component 102.

[0504] The connecting element 130 configured as a screw connection element 132 can be Figures 35 to 37 In the tenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 , the connecting device 100 is guided through the through-hole 232 in the second component 104 .

[0505] The connecting element 130 , in particular the screw receptacle 230 , which can be inserted into the groove 110 , is therefore accessible from the side 234 of the second component 104 facing away from the first component 102 .

[0506] The second component 104 can thus be tightened and / or clamped between the screw head 236 of the screw element 132 and the connecting element 130 which can be pushed into the groove 110 by screwing the screw element 132 together.

[0507] The screw fitting receiving portion 230 is, for example, a threaded hole or an elongated hole with an internal thread. Alternatively, it can be provided that the screw fitting receiving portion 230 is a flexible receiving portion for cutting a screw fitting with a thread.

[0508] The screw fitting receptacle 230 is preferably a receptacle designed as an oblong hole for a screw fitting having a thread cut therein.

[0509] exist Figures 35 to 37 The tenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in is particularly suitable for use as a fixing anchor in thin-walled, easily split materials, for example similar to a plug for fixing a screw joint.

[0510] In addition Figures 35 to 37The tenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 5 to 9 The first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is identical to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so that reference is made to the above description of the first embodiment in this regard.

[0511] exist Fig.38 and 39 The difference between the eleventh embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in and the preceding embodiments is essentially that the connecting device 100 also allows a relative movement of the components 102 , 104 relative to one another in the mounted and connected state of the components 102 , 104 and the connecting device 100 .

[0512] In this case, the connecting device 100 forms a guide means 238 , by means of which the components 102 , 104 can be guided in a relative movement.

[0513] The connecting device 100 here comprises at least one connecting element 130 , which is a connecting element 130 that can be inserted into the groove 110 .

[0514] The connecting element 130 preferably comprises a guide element 240 , for example a guide projection 242 , which, in the mounted state of the connecting element 130 , projects beyond the abutment surface 152 of the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 and beyond the contact surface 106 of the component 102 in which the connecting element 130 is arranged.

[0515] The guide element 240 is designed here, for example, to be essentially cuboid.

[0516] The further component 104 preferably comprises a guide groove 244 for accommodating the guide element 240 .

[0517] In this case, the guide groove 244 is integrated, for example, into the connecting element 130 or into the component 104 itself.

[0518] exist Fig.38 and 39 In the eleventh embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in , the guide groove 244 is formed in the component 104 , in particular in the form of a substantially square recess in the side of the component 104 at which the contact surface 108 is arranged.

[0519] If in particular Fig.39 As can be seen, an undesired lateral displacement of the components 102 , 104 in a direction extending transversely to the longitudinal extension direction of the guide groove 244 can be avoided in the installed state of the connecting device 100 and the components 102 , 104 .

[0520] However, a displacement of the components 102 , 104 relative to one another along the longitudinal extension direction of the guide groove 244 is possible here.

[0521] exist Fig.38 and 39 The eleventh embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for use as a sliding door fitting, for example at the lower end of a sliding door.

[0522] In addition Fig.38 and 39 The eleventh embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 18 to 22 The present invention corresponds to the fourth embodiment shown in , so that reference is made to the above description of the fourth embodiment in this regard.

[0523] exist Fig.40 and 41 The twelfth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Fig.38 and 39 The difference between the eleventh embodiment shown in is essentially that the guide element 240 comprises one or more support elements 246 for supporting the components 102 , 104 movably relative to one another.

[0524] The bearing element 246 is designed in particular as a roller element 248 .

[0525] For example, two pairs of roller elements 248 are provided.

[0526] exist Fig.40 and 41 In the twelfth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in FIG. 2 , the guide groove 244 is formed by a connection element 130 arranged in one of the components 102 , 104 .

[0527] The guide groove 244 here preferably comprises a guide section 250 , at which the guide element 240 , in particular the bearing element 246 of the guide element 240 , can engage the guide groove 244 at the rear.

[0528] The guide groove 244 is open downward, for example, with respect to the gravity direction g, so that the connecting element 130 including the guide element 240 can be suspended in the guide groove 244 together with the component 102 at which the connecting element 130 is arranged.

[0529] Such a connecting device 100 can then be used in particular as a suspension device for a sliding door.

[0530] In addition Fig.40 and 41 The twelfth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.38 and 39 The eleventh embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is identical to the eleventh embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so in this regard reference is made to the above description of the eleventh embodiment.

[0531] exist Fig.42 and 43 The thirteenth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Fig.40 and 41 The difference to the twelfth embodiment shown in 1 is essentially that a bearing element 246 designed as a roller element 248 is arranged on the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 .

[0532] The connecting element 130 can preferably also be pushed into the groove 110 .

[0533] The support element 246 preferably projects beyond the contact surface 152 of the base body 134 and beyond the contact surface 106 of the component 102 in which the connecting element 130 is arranged.

[0534] The bearing element 246 , which is designed as a roller element 248 , is mounted in particular rotatably on the base body 134 and can roll, for example, on the running surface 252 .

[0535] Working surface 252 is, for example, arranged on another component 104 or is formed by another component 104 .

[0536] The working surface 252 can thus form, for example, the connecting element 130 of the connecting device 100 .

[0537] It may be advantageous if the working surface 252 is formed by the contact surface 108 of the further component 104 .

[0538] In the assembled state of the connecting device 100 and the components 102, 104, the bearing element 246 preferably bears against the running surface 252 and can be moved along the running surface 252. The components 102, 104 can thus also be moved relative to one another.

[0539] In addition Fig.42 and 43 The thirteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.40 and 41 The twelfth embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is identical to the twelfth embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so in this regard reference is made to the above description of the twelfth embodiment.

[0540] exist Figures 44 to 46 The fourteenth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Figures 23 to 26 The difference between the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is that the connection elements 130 can be connected to each other in a manner similar to that in FIG. Figures 10 to 15 The second embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is established by means of a rotatable holding element 142 .

[0541] In addition Figures 44 to 46 In the embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 , no fixed insertion projection 166 is provided.

[0542] The connecting device 100 , in contrast, comprises positioning means 254 for positioning the components 102 , 104 , in particular the connecting element 130 , relative to one another.

[0543] The positioning device 254 includes one or more positioning elements 256 and one or more positioning element receptacles 258 .

[0544] The positioning element 256 is preferably mounted movably, flexibly, elastically and / or in a spring-loaded manner.

[0545] exist Figures 44 to 46 In the connection type of the connection device 100 shown in , two positioning elements 256 designed as steel balls 260 are provided, which are each arranged displaceably inside a through-hole 262 on one of the connection elements 130 .

[0546] Furthermore, a spring element 264 and a closing element 266 , for example a countersunk screw 268 , are respectively arranged in the through-holes 262 .

[0547] The at least one through-hole 262 is configured to taper toward the contact surface 152 of the base body 134 , thereby forming one or more retaining projections 270 .

[0548] The retaining projection 270 can preferably prevent the positioning element 256 , in particular the steel ball 260 , from unintentionally coming out of the through-hole 262 .

[0549] The closing element 266 prevents the positioning element 256 from falling out at the end of the aperture 262 opposite the contact surface 152 .

[0550] The elastic element 264 is arranged between the closing element 266 and the positioning element 256. In this way, the positioning element 256 can be held in a preferably spring-loaded, flexible manner in the positioning position.

[0551] In this locking position, the locking element 256 projects beyond the contact surface 152 .

[0552] The one or more positioning element receptacles 258 are preferably designed to be complementary at least in sections to the one or more positioning elements 256. In particular, the positioning element receptacles 258 are designed to be complementary to the section of the positioning element 256 that protrudes beyond the contact surface 152 in the positioning position of the positioning element 256.

[0553] By means of the spring-loaded, flexible mounting of the positioning element 256 , the positioning element 256 can be moved into the base body 134 , in particular so that the connecting element 130 and the components 102 , 104 can be moved relative to one another while the abutment surface 152 and / or the contact surfaces 106 , 108 abut against one another.

[0554] As soon as the connecting element 130 is arranged in the desired position in which the positioning element 256 is arranged opposite the positioning element receptacle 258 , the positioning element 256 is automatically moved into the positioning element receptacle 258 by means of the spring element 264 .

[0555] In this way, the components 102, 104 can be easily positioned relative to each other. In addition, the components 102, 104 can be locked to each other in order to simplify the handling of the holding element 142 for connecting the components 102, 104 to each other stably.

[0556] In particular, for bonding components 102 , 104 to one another, it can also be provided that connecting device 100 comprises only positioning means 254 and no retaining element 142 .

[0557] exist Figures 44 to 46 The fourteenth embodiment of the connecting element 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for mounting pushed-in shelves, partition walls, rear walls, cabinet elements or the like.

[0558] Furthermore, the connecting device 100 can be used as a bonding aid at locations where no pressure can be applied and where it is not possible to insert two connecting elements 130 into one another or to join them together in another way.

[0559] In addition Figures 44 to 46 The fourteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 23 to 26 The present invention corresponds to the fifth embodiment shown in , so that reference is made to the above description of the fifth embodiment in this regard.

[0560] exist Figures 47 to 49 The fifteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 32 to 34 The difference between the ninth embodiment shown in is essentially that the connecting element 130 and therefore also the components 102 , 104 can be connected or are connected to one another by means of a joint element 272 of a joint means 274 .

[0561] In this case, two connecting elements 130 are provided which can each be inserted into a groove 110 in one of the components 102 , 104 .

[0562] Each of the connecting elements 130 comprises two screw receptacles 230 for receiving the screw receptacles 162 .

[0563] The joint element 272 comprises two sections 276 which are pivotable relative to one another.

[0564] Each of the sections 276 comprises two elongated holes 278 for the passage of the screw connection 162 and for fixing the respective section 276 to one of the connecting elements 130 .

[0565] For simple and / or aesthetically pleasing mounting of the hinge element 272 on the connecting element 130 , a recess 280 may be provided in the connecting element 130 .

[0566] In particular, a protruding tab 282 of the section 276 of the joint element 272 can be accommodated in the recess 280 .

[0567] The elongated hole 278 is preferably arranged and / or formed in the tab 282 .

[0568] The hinge element 272 may be, for example, a metal component or may be formed from a metal component.

[0569] If in particular Fig.49 It turns out that the connecting element 130 and the components 102 , 104 can be pivoted about the pivot axis 284 by means of the joint element 272 .

[0570] exist Figures 47 to 49 The fifteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for use as a door hinge.

[0571] In addition Figures 47 to 49 The fifteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 32 to 34 The ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is identical to the ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so in this regard reference is made to the above description of the ninth embodiment.

[0572] exist Figures 50 to 53 The sixteenth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Fig. 27 and 28 The difference between the sixth embodiment shown in 1 and 2 is essentially that a locking element is provided instead of a screw connection for connecting two connecting elements 130 to one another.

[0573] For this purpose, the connecting device 100 comprises a movable, in particular linearly displaceable, locking element 286 .

[0574] The locking element 286 is a component of a connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 and which, in addition to the base body 134 and the locking element 286 , comprises a drive shaft 288 and one or more magnetic elements 190 for driving the drive shaft 288 .

[0575] If in particular Fig.52 and 53It turns out that locking element 286 has an opening 292 which is essentially cuboid in shape and includes a toothed rack section 294 of a toothed wheel arrangement 296 on one side.

[0576] The rack section 294 in particular engages with a gear wheel 298 of a gear arrangement 296 which is arranged on the drive shaft 288 .

[0577] The magnetic element 190 is also arranged on the drive shaft 288 , so that the drive shaft 288 can be rotated together with the gear wheel 298 about the rotation axis 300 by means of the magnetic element 190 , in particular by contactlessly actuating from the outside by means of magnetic means.

[0578] Since the gear wheel 298 is coupled to the rack section 294 of the locking element 286 , the locking element 286 can be linearly displaced, in particular along the locking direction 302 , by rotating the drive shaft 288 .

[0579] The locking direction 302 is in particular substantially perpendicular to the abutment surface 152 and / or the contact surface 106 , 108 of at least one of the components 102 , 104 .

[0580] The locking element 286 can be received or is received in a linearly displaceable manner in a locking element receptacle 304 of the main body 134 , which is designed to be substantially complementary thereto.

[0581] The drive shaft 288 together with the magnetic element 190 and the gear wheel 298 can be or is accommodated in a shaft receptacle 306 of the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 .

[0582] The locking element 286 is preferably movable along the locking direction 302 into the base body 134 to such an extent that the locking element 286 no longer projects beyond the abutment surface 152 and / or the contact surface 106 , 108 of at least one component 102 , 104 .

[0583] In this position, however, it is also possible for the locking element 286 to project beyond the main body 134 at the end of the locking element receptacle 304 that is opposite the contact surface 152 of the main body 134 .

[0584] This position of the locking element 286 is therefore only possible if the base body 134 is designed to be large enough to accommodate the entire locking element 286 or if the component 102 in which the connecting element 130 with the locking element 286 is arranged has a groove 308 that is adjacent to the locking element receiving portion 304 in the locking direction 302 (see Fig.51 ).

[0585] In order to lock the two components 102, 104 to each other by means of the connecting device 100, the locking element 286 can be brought to the Fig.50 and 51, in which the locking element 286 projects beyond the contact surface 152 of the connecting element 130 and beyond the contact surface 106 of the component 102 .

[0586] The locking element 286 then extends, for example, into a locking element receptacle 304 of a further connecting element 130 which is arranged in the further component 104. Alternatively or in addition thereto, it can be provided that the further component 104 comprises only a recess 308 for receiving the locking element 286.

[0587] In order to optimize the torque transmission from the magnetic element 190 to the drive shaft 288 and / or the gear wheel 298, in particular the drive shaft 288 is provided with a non-rotationally symmetrical cross section, for example with a rectangular cross section. The magnetic element 190 and the gear wheel 298 then preferably have corresponding receptacles.

[0588] The drive shaft 288 may be, for example, a bar magnet.

[0589] The magnetic element 190, the drive shaft 288, the gear 298 and / or the rack section 294 of the locking element 286 are preferably sized, constructed and / or arranged such that the locking element 286 can be moved from the retaining position to the release position, in particular from the locking position to the release position, by rotating 180° via the drive shaft 288.

[0590] By placing magnets on different sides of component 102 , locking element 286 can then be brought into the desired different positions particularly easily.

[0591] exist Figures 50 to 53 The sixteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for use as a furniture lock, a bracket connector (Tablar verbbinder) and / or for wall panel installation (Wandpaneelenmontage).

[0592] In addition Figures 50 to 53 The sixteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig. 27 and 28 The sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is identical to the sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so that reference is made to the above description of the sixth embodiment in this regard.

[0593] exist Fig.54 The seventeenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 50 to 53 The difference between the sixteenth embodiment shown in is essentially that two connecting elements 130 are provided, each of which comprises at least one magnetic element 190 .

[0594] The magnetic element 190 can be completely integrated into the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 , for example, and in particular can be arranged inside the base body 134 at a distance from the contact surface 152 of the base body 134 .

[0595] However, it may also be provided that the magnetic element 190 extends within the base body 134 as far as the contact surface 152 .

[0596] exist Fig.54 In the seventeenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in , the connecting element 130 and therefore also the connection between the components 102, 104 is achieved in that the magnetic elements 190 interact magnetically with each other, in particular in that the magnetic elements 190 attract each other.

[0597] The components 102 , 104 are thus brought by means of the connecting device 100 into a position in which the distance between the magnetic elements 190 is at a minimum.

[0598] The components 102, 104 do not necessarily have to be in contact with each other, in particular do not have to be in contact with each other. Instead, it can be provided that the components 102, 104 are arranged at any distance A from each other.

[0599] The connecting elements 130 of the connecting device 100 also do not have to be mechanically engaged with one another.

[0600] It is therefore unimportant that the connecting element 130 is arranged in the groove 110 adjacent to the contact surfaces 106 , 108 of the components 102 , 104 .

[0601] Conversely, it may be provided that, for example, at least one connecting element 130 is arranged in a groove 110 adjoining a side surface 310 oriented perpendicularly to the contact surface 106 , for example, the front side of the component 102 .

[0602] In particular, for an aesthetically pleasing design of the components 102 , 104 , provision can be made for the grooves 110 and therefore also the surfaces 108 , 310 in which the connecting elements 130 are arranged to be provided with a covering element 314 after the connecting elements 130 have been mounted.

[0603] The covering element 314 may, for example, form an edge of the components 102 , 104 .

[0604] As already described in the above exemplary embodiments, the magnetic element 190 can be understood essentially as a magnetically interacting element.

[0605] Therefore, it is not necessary for both magnetic elements 190 to be magnetized. Instead, for example, a magnetized magnetic element 190 and a magnetizable element, in particular a steel element, can be provided.

[0606] exist Fig.54 The seventeenth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for use in a fast-installable locking pin having an invisible locking pin. It is used for magnetic fixing of furniture doors and office furniture.

[0607] In addition Fig.54 The seventeenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 50 to 53 The sixteenth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is identical to the sixteenth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so in this regard reference is made to the above description of the sixteenth embodiment.

[0608] exist Fig.55 and 56 The eighteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 5 to 9 The difference between the first embodiment shown in 1 and 2 is essentially that the screw connection element 132 is rotatably arranged on the connecting element 130 which can be pushed into the groove 110 .

[0609] Instead of a rotatable holding element 142 for gripping the screw joint element 132 , an operating element 316 for operating the screw joint element 132 is provided.

[0610] The actuating element 316 and the screw coupling element 132 here in particular form an angled screw coupling means 318 .

[0611] If in particular Fig.56 As can be seen, the angled screw connection means 318, in particular the actuating element 316, is laterally accessible through the access opening 128 in the component 102. The screw connection element 132 can be screwed directly into the other component 104 on one side without further elements.

[0612] However, it can also be provided that the further component 104 comprises a screw receptacle 230 , is provided with a screw receptacle 230 or is provided with a connecting element 130 which can be arranged in a groove 110 in the component 104 and is provided with a screw receptacle 230 .

[0613] As an alternative to the actuation of the screw connection element 132 by means of the actuating element 316 , it can also be provided that the nut can be actuated by means of the actuating element 316 in order to accommodate a screw connection which is arranged on the other component 104 .

[0614] With the aid of this connecting device 100, a connection with non-wood materials can be established in particular. In addition, this connecting device 100 is also suitable for use on a bracket carrier. or as a bracket carrier.

[0615] In addition Fig.55 and 56The eighteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 5 to 9 The first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is identical to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so that reference is made to the above description of the first embodiment in this regard.

[0616] exist Fig.57 The nineteenth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Figures 32 to 34 The difference between the ninth embodiment shown in is essentially that one of the connecting elements 130 comprises a movable retaining element 142 which is designed as a latching hook 320 .

[0617] The latching hook 320 can in particular engage with a latching receptacle 322 which is arranged on the further connecting element 130 .

[0618] The latching hook 320 is arranged on the one connecting element 130 in a spring-loaded manner, in particular by means of a spring element 264 .

[0619] In particular, the locking hook 320 can be moved along the connecting direction 170 from the locking position (see Fig.57 ) (in which the locking hook 320 protrudes beyond the contact surface 152 of the connecting element 130) into a release position in which the locking hook 320 is arranged essentially completely within the base body 134 of the connecting element 130.

[0620] The latching hook 320 and / or the latching receptacle 322 is preferably provided with at least one bevel 324 .

[0621] In particular, the bevel 324 is oriented obliquely to the contact surface 152 and / or obliquely to the contact surfaces 106 , 108 of the components 102 , 104 .

[0622] The bevel 324 makes it possible to push the latching hook 320 into the base body 134 when the components 102 , 104 and therefore also the connecting element 130 are moved in a transverse direction 326 running parallel to the abutment surface 152 and / or parallel to the contact surfaces 106 , 108 .

[0623] However, this is preferably possible only in a single transverse direction 326 .

[0624] The components 102 , 104 and the connecting element 130 are preferably designed and / or arranged in such a way that, in order to cancel the locking of the locking hook 320 , the transverse direction 326 is oriented opposite to the gravity direction g.

[0625] When the component 102 is acted upon in a transverse direction 326 extending parallel to the gravity direction g, the locking hook 320 is preferably held in the locking receptacle 322 , thereby ensuring a secure and stable connection between the components 102 , 104 .

[0626] exist Fig.57 The nineteenth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for use as a bracket carrier.

[0627] In addition Fig.57 The nineteenth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 32 to 34 The ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is identical to the ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so in this regard reference is made to the above description of the ninth embodiment.

[0628] exist Figures 58 to 60 The twentieth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Figures 32 to 34 The difference between the ninth embodiment shown in is essentially that the connecting device 100 is used on the one hand to connect two components 102 , 104 and on the other hand to connect the components 102 , 104 to one or more further components, in particular to a base structure 328 .

[0629] The base structure 328 is in particular a supporting structure for a floor covering or a wall panel.

[0630] If it can be Fig.58 and 60 As can be seen, the connecting device 100 comprises a connecting element 130 which can be inserted into a groove 110 in the components 102 , 104 .

[0631] The connecting element 130 is designed, for example, in one piece and, in addition to the part 330 which can be introduced into the groove 110 , comprises a projection 332 and a surrounding engaging section 334 .

[0632] The projection 332 serves in particular to arrange and / or accommodate a further component 104 .

[0633] For this purpose, the further component 104 can be pushed onto the projection 332 in particular by means of the recess 336 , for example the groove 110 .

[0634] The circumferentially engaging section 334 of the connecting element 130 circumferentially engages the component 102 at a side surface 310 which extends transversely, in particular substantially perpendicularly, to the contact surface 106 .

[0635] The connecting element 130 thus surrounds the component 102 in a substantially C-shaped manner in sections.

[0636] The encircling engaging section 334 can extend, for example, parallel to the projection 332 , so that the further component 104 is also encircled and engaged by the connecting element 130 in its mounted state in a substantially C-shaped manner.

[0637] If in particular Fig.60As can be seen, a perforation 154 is provided between the projection 332 and the part 330 of the connecting element 130 which forms the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 .

[0638] The screw connection 162 can be introduced into the aperture 154 , in particular for fastening, in particular screwing, the connecting element 130 together with the component 102 or together with both components 102 , 104 to the base structure 328 .

[0639] Due to the surrounding engaging section 334 of the connecting element 130 , one or more components 102 , 104 are preferably not placed directly on the base structure 328 .

[0640] Instead, the distance A is preferably formed between the one or more components 102 , 104 by means of the surrounding engaging section 334 . 2 .

[0641] Furthermore, preferably by means of the connecting element 130, the components 102, 104 are also kept at a predetermined distance A from each other. 1 .

[0642] exist Figures 58 to 60 The twentieth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for use as a platform connector for connecting a plurality of plates (bretts) (components 102 , 104 ) to one another and to a beam structure (base structure 328 ).

[0643] For the purpose of assembly, it can be provided, for example, that the component 102 is provided with one or more grooves 110 .

[0644] At least one groove 110 is then provided with a connecting element 130 by inserting the part 330 of the connecting element 130 forming the base body 134 into the groove 110 .

[0645] In this case, the circumferentially engaging section 334 of the connecting element 130 circumferentially engages the component 102 at the side surface 310 of the component 102 .

[0646] In a next step, component 102 is placed together with connecting element 130 on base structure 328 .

[0647] In particular, the surrounding engaging section 334 of the connecting element 130 and the base structure 328 are placed against one another and are screwed together by means of one or more screw joints 162 .

[0648] The further component 104 is then fixed to the base structure 328 in that it is pushed with the provided recess 336 or groove 110 onto the projection 332 of the connecting element 130 .

[0649] Another groove 110 is or has been provided on the side of the component 104 opposite to the side for accommodating the protrusion 332, and another connecting element 130 is introduced into the other groove 110, so that the other connecting element 130 is fixed to the base structure 328 together with the other component 104.

[0650] To release this connection, only the screw connection 162 has to be removed.

[0651] The components 102 , 104 are then preferably movable relative to each other to remove a single component 102 , 104 .

[0652] In addition Figures 58 to 60 The twentieth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar to that in FIG. 1 in terms of structure and function. Figures 32 to 34 The ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is identical to the ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so in this regard reference is made to the above description of the ninth embodiment.

[0653] exist Fig.61 and 62 The twenty-first embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Figures 32 to 34 The difference between the ninth embodiment shown in the figure is essentially that the connecting device 100 comprises a plurality of elastic elements 338 or locking elements 340, by means of which the connecting element 130 and therefore also the components 102, 104 can be connected to each other, in particular can be locked to each other.

[0654] In this case, the spring element 338 or the locking element 340 has a spring nose 342 or a locking nose 344 which can engage in a corresponding receptacle 346 .

[0655] In order to simplify the contents mentioned, the elastic element 338 and the locking element 340 are collectively referred to as “locking element 340 ” below.

[0656] Therefore, the elastic nose 342 and the stop nose 344 are collectively referred to as the “stop nose 344 ”.

[0657] If in particular Fig.61 As concluded, in Fig.61 and 62 In the twenty-first embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 2 , the two connecting elements 130 are each provided with a locking element 340 and a receptacle 346 for a locking nose 344 of the locking element 340 .

[0658] The locking elements 340 and the receptacles 346 are arranged relative to one another in such a way that two locking elements 340 of different connecting elements 130 can be guided past one another and can each engage with an associated receptacle 346 .

[0659] If in particular Fig.62 As a result, it can be provided, for example, that each connecting element 130 comprises eight locking elements 340 and eight receptacles 346 .

[0660] The latching noses 344 of the latching elements 340 are preferably arranged at different distances from the contact surfaces 152 of the respective connecting elements 130. This results in an improved latching of the connecting elements 130 and thus an improved connection of the components 102, 104.

[0661] For example, by Fig.61 It turns out that the locking elements 340 arranged adjacent to one another are preferably oriented in such a way that the locking noses 344 of the locking elements 340 project away from one another in different directions.

[0662] Furthermore, it can be provided that each connecting element 130 itself comprises two or more locking elements 340 arranged adjacent to one another, wherein directly adjacent locking elements 340 are preferably designed and / or arranged such that their locking noses 344 extend away in mutually different directions.

[0663] In addition Fig.61 and 62 The twenty-first embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 32 to 34 The ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is identical to the ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so in this regard reference is made to the above description of the ninth embodiment.

[0664] exist Figures 63 to 67 The twenty-second embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Fig.61 and 62 The difference between the twenty-first embodiment shown in is essentially that only one connecting element 130 including an elastic element 338 and / or a stop element 340 is provided.

[0665] In the following, only the locking element 340 will be referred to uniformly with respect to this embodiment. However, the locking element 340 can also be a simple elastic element 338 .

[0666] exist Figures 63 to 67 In the twenty-second embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in , the connecting element 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 is provided with two sequences 348 formed by stop elements 340 .

[0667] The sequences 348 are arranged parallel to each other.

[0668] The locking noses 344 of the locking elements 340 of a sequence 348 extend away in the same direction.

[0669] In this case, the stop noses 344 of each sequence 348 are arranged along a circular arc-shaped path.

[0670] If in particular Fig.65 and 67 It turns out that the locking element 340 is arranged in such a way that a locking nose 344 of the locking element 340 projects away in a direction facing away from one of the respective other sequences 348 .

[0671] The length of the stop element 340, i.e. the distance between the stop nose 344 of the stop element 340 and the contact surface 152 of the connecting element 130, is preferably selected so that the stop nose 344 can be inserted into the contact surface 152 of the connecting element 130. Figures 1 to 4 The slit can be inserted into a groove 110 of the type shown in FIG. 1 and can be locked at an undercut surface 122 of the groove 110 .

[0672] Thus, a simple latching connection between the two components 102 , 104 can be produced using only one connecting element 130 and two grooves 110 .

[0673] The latching nose 344 is preferably provided with a chamfer (not shown), so that the components 102 , 104 can be pulled toward each other when the latching nose 344 is locked.

[0674] In addition Figures 63 to 67 The twenty-second embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.61 and 62 The twenty-first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is consistent with the twenty-first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-first embodiment.

[0675] exist Figures 68 to 70 The twenty-third embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Fig.61 and 62 The difference between the twenty-first embodiment shown in is essentially that one or more locking elements 350 are provided instead of the locking element 340 .

[0676] The locking element 350 in particular forms the retaining element 142 .

[0677] The locking element 350 can be designed here, for example, as a metal bent portion 352 .

[0678] If in particular Fig.68 It can be seen that the locking element 350 can be received in a receptacle 354 of the connecting element 130 .

[0679] The locking element 350 is preferably an element which is different from the main body 134 of the connecting element 130 and which can be fastened to the main body 134 in particular in a detachable manner.

[0680] The locking element 350 includes, for example, two engagement projections 146 which are designed and / or arranged to be movable relative to the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 .

[0681] The further connecting element 130 comprises an operating element 316 for operating the locking element 350 .

[0682] The operating element 316 is designed, for example, as an eccentric element.

[0683] The operating element 316 is preferably accessible through a lateral access opening 128 in one of the components 102 , 104 , in particular in order to rotate the operating element 316 by means of a screw-joint wrench and thereby actuate the locking element 350 .

[0684] If in particular Fig.69 and 70 As can be seen, the locking element 350 can be actuated by means of the operating element 316 in particular by moving the engagement projections 146 away from one another by means of the operating element 316 and thereby being brought into the engagement section 148 on the connecting element 130 on which the operating element 316 is arranged.

[0685] Arranging the locking element 350 and the operating element 316 on different connecting elements 130 can optimize the lever arm ratio for operating the locking element 350. This can reduce the mechanical load on the connecting device 100 when the connecting device 100 is locked, while preferably maintaining or even improving the stability and reliability of the connection.

[0686] In addition Figures 68 to 70 The twenty-third embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.61 and 62 The twenty-first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is consistent with the twenty-first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-first embodiment.

[0687] exist Figures 71 to 74 The twenty-fourth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Fig.61 and 62 The difference between the twenty-first embodiment shown in is essentially that a clamping means 356 is provided instead of the locking element 340 .

[0688] The clamping device 356 includes one or more clamping protrusions 358 and one or more clamping elements 360 .

[0689] The clamping projection 358 is arranged, for example, on one of the connecting elements 130 which can be inserted into the groove 110 .

[0690] A clamping element 360 , for example four clamping elements 360 , is arranged on the further connecting element 130 .

[0691] In particular, the clamping elements 360 are arranged on mutually opposite sides of the clamping receptacle 362 .

[0692] The clamping protrusion 358 is configured to be substantially square.

[0693] The clamping element 360 is preferably provided with or formed of a material having a high coefficient of friction at its end in contact with the clamping projection 358 .

[0694] The clamping element 360 is preferably designed and / or arranged in a flexible, elastic and / or spring-loaded manner on the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 .

[0695] The clamping element 360 preferably projects obliquely to the contact surface 152 into the clamping receptacle 362. Furthermore, the clamping element 360 preferably points away from the contact surface 152.

[0696] When the clamping projection 358 is pushed into the clamping receptacle 362, the clamping element 360 can be simply moved to the side. The clamping projection 358 can thus be introduced into the clamping receptacle 362 without significant resistance (see Fig.73 and 74 ).

[0697] The connection between the connecting elements 130 and thus also the connection between the two components 102 , 104 can thus be easily produced.

[0698] In order to release this connection, the clamping projection 358 must be pulled out of the clamping receptacle 362 .

[0699] However, due to the shape and design of the clamping element 360 , a greater resistance occurs here, in particular due to the fact that the clamping element 360 can be moved toward the clamping projection 358 due to the inclined arrangement and orientation and thus also intensifies the clamping force.

[0700] The clamping means 356 is therefore a self-locking clamping means 356 .

[0701] The clamping element 360 can be designed, for example, as a pressure comb.

[0702] The clamping projection 358 is in particular a substantially square peg-shaped portion.

[0703] In addition Figures 71 to 74 The twenty-fourth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.61 and 62 The twenty-first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is consistent with the twenty-first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-first embodiment.

[0704] exist Fig.75 The twenty-fifth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Fig.61 and 62 The difference between the twenty-first embodiment shown in is essentially that the locking element 340 and the receptacle 346 for the locking element 340 are designed to be essentially spherical.

[0705] The locking element 340 and / or the receptacle 346 for the locking element 340 is preferably designed to be elastic and / or flexible.

[0706] For example, it can be provided that the spherical locking element 340 is deformable so that it can be introduced into a likewise spherical receptacle 346 .

[0707] exist Fig.75 In the twenty-fifth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 8 , the locking element 340 and the receiving portion 346 are arranged on mutually different connecting elements 130 .

[0708] The spherical locking element 340 is arranged here at different distances from the contact surface 152. This allows an optimal locking of the components 102, 104 with respect to one another.

[0709] In particular, when the receptacles 346 for the locking elements 340 are arranged at a constant distance from the contact surface 152 of the associated connecting element 130 , it can be provided that the spherical locking elements 340 are successively inserted into the receptacles 346 and latched therewith.

[0710] Preferably, latching of the connecting device 100 can thus be achieved in different positions, in particular at different distances between the contact surfaces 152 of the connecting elements 130 .

[0711] In addition Fig.75 The twenty-fifth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.61 and 62 The twenty-first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is consistent with the twenty-first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-first embodiment.

[0712] exist Figures 76 to 78 The twenty-sixth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Fig.75 The difference between the twenty-fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is essentially that the locking element 340 is designed to be essentially cylindrical segment-shaped and can be inserted into a corresponding essentially cylindrical segment-shaped receptacle 346 .

[0713] In addition Figures 76 to 78 The twenty-sixth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.75The twenty-fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is consistent with the twenty-fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-fifth embodiment.

[0714] exist Fig.79 and 80 An alternative embodiment of the groove 110 is shown in FIG.

[0715] The groove 110 is designed as a partial groove 364 .

[0716] For this partial groove 364, the groove bottom 118 extends in an arc shape from the contact surface 106 of the component 102 into the component 102. However, the groove bottom 118 does not end again at the contact surface 106, but ends inside the component 102 or also ends at the side surface 310 (not shown in the drawings) of the component 102.

[0717] exist Fig.79 and 80 In the embodiment of the groove 110 shown in FIG. 1 , the groove base 118 ends at a stop surface 366 of the groove 110 .

[0718] The stop surface 366 extends in particular transversely to the contact surface 106 .

[0719] The stop surface 366 preferably delimits the base section 112 and the undercut section 114 .

[0720] By configuring the connecting element 130 to be appropriately shortened, it is also possible to arrange the Figures 1 to 4 All connecting elements 130 in the groove 110 are arranged according to Fig.79 and 80 in the portion of groove 364 .

[0721] The partial grooves 364 can be cut, for example, by means of a finger milling cutter (not shown) produce.

[0722] exist Fig.81 The twenty-seventh embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Figures 71 to 74 The difference between the twenty-fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is basically that the connecting device 100 includes a locking device 368 .

[0723] The connecting element 130 can preferably be locked by means of the locking device 368 to prevent it from undesired movement inside the groove 110 and / or along the groove 110.

[0724] The locking device 368 particularly includes a locking element 370 constructed as a locking protrusion, which, in the installed state of the connecting element 130, particularly abuts against the contact surfaces 106, 108 of the components 102, 104 and thereby locks the connecting element 130 to prevent unwanted movement within and / or along the groove 110.

[0725] The locking element 370 can be particularly clamped between the components 102 , 104 , such as between the contact surfaces 106 , 108 of the components 102 , 104 , to lock the connecting element 130 .

[0726] In addition Fig.81 The twenty-seventh embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 71 to 74 The twenty-fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is consistent with the twenty-fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-fourth embodiment.

[0727] exist Figures 82 to 87 The twenty-eighth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Fig.81 The difference between the twenty-seventh embodiment shown in the figure is basically that the locking device 368 includes two pairs of locking elements 370, which are arranged at end areas 374 of the corresponding connecting elements 130 opposite to each other with respect to the pushing direction 372 of the connecting elements 130.

[0728] The securing element 370 here is in particular a securing element 370 which is designed and / or arranged in an elastic, flexible and / or spring-loaded manner.

[0729] When the connecting element 130 is pushed into the groove 110 , the securing element 370 is preferably automatically moved into the release position.

[0730] Once the connecting element 130 is arranged in a predetermined position in the groove 110, in particular once the abutment surface 152 of the connecting element 130 is oriented parallel to, in particular flush with, the contact surfaces 106, 108 of the components 102, 104, the locking element 370 preferably automatically reaches a retaining position in which further movement of the connecting element 130 within and / or along the groove 110 is effectively prevented.

[0731] The securing element 370 is then supported in particular on a contact surface 106 , 108 of at least one component 102 , 104 .

[0732] exist Figures 82 to 87 In the twenty-eighth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 2 , the actual connection between the two connecting elements 130 and the components 102 , 104 is achieved by means of a guide device 238 .

[0733] The guide means 238 comprises a guide element 240 arranged at the connecting element 130 , which comprises one or more guide projections 242 .

[0734] The guide element 240 can in particular be introduced into a guide groove 244 of the further connecting element 130 .

[0735] The guide groove 244 comprises a guide section 250 which can be engaged at the rear by the guide element 240 by means of the guide projection 242 .

[0736] The guide means 238 comprises in particular a slotted guide 376 which is formed by the guide groove 244 .

[0737] The slot guide 376 serves in particular to guide the guide element 240 along a predetermined guide path.

[0738] The guide path has a varying distance along the guide groove 244 from the contact surfaces 106 , 108 of the components 102 , 104 and / or from the abutment surface 152 of the connecting element 130 .

[0739] In particular, a local minimum region 378 is provided in the slotted guide 376 , which minimum region 378 is surrounded by two local or overall maximum regions 380 .

[0740] The maximum region 380 is surrounded by a terminal region 382 on the side facing away from the minimum region 378 .

[0741] In order to connect the connecting element 130 and the components 102 , 104 to one another, the connecting element 130 is first arranged on the components 102 , 104 .

[0742] In a next step, the components 102 , 104 together with the connecting elements 130 arranged thereon are moved relative to one another, so that the guide element 240 of one connecting element 130 reaches the guide groove 244 of the other connecting element 130 .

[0743] In this case, the components 102 , 104 and the connecting element 130 are displaced in particular parallel to the contact surfaces 106 , 108 of the components 102 , 104 .

[0744] In this case, the guide projection 242 first engages with the end region 382 and is then guided over the maximum region 380 into the minimum region 378 .

[0745] Due to the further maximum region 380 following the minimum region 378 , the minimum region 378 is a stable position for guiding the projection 242 along the guide path formed by means of the slot guide 376 .

[0746] Therefore, when the guide protrusion 242 is arranged in the smallest area 378 of the sliding groove guide 376 (see in particular Fig.86 ), the connecting elements 130 are stably connected to each other.

[0747] If necessary, the guide projection 242 together with the associated connecting element 130 and the associated components 102 , 104 can also be pushed over the further maximum region 380 and out of the further end region 382 .

[0748] The connecting elements 130 can thus be pushed completely against each other when necessary.

[0749] If in particular Fig.83 and 86 It turns out that in one or more connecting elements 130 , the recess 384 is arranged in the region facing away from the contact surface 152 .

[0750] The recess 384 is designed, for example, in the shape of a circular arc.

[0751] Such a recess 384 may be particularly advantageous when a connecting element 130 is to be arranged in a flat component 102 , 104 and, in addition to the connecting element 130 , further guide elements 240 are provided on the component 102 , 104 .

[0752] For example, when two grooves are arranged on opposite sides of components 102 and 104 for accommodating connecting elements 130 and the grooves 110 extend into components 102 and 104 to such an extent that the grooves 110 intersect in the area of ​​the groove bottom surface 118, the recess 384 makes it possible to arrange the two connecting elements 130 in components 102 and 104 despite the intersection.

[0753] In addition Figures 82 to 87 The twenty-eighth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Fig.81 The twenty-seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is consistent with the twenty-seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-seventh embodiment.

[0754] exist Figures 88 to 92 The twenty-ninth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Figures 82 to 87 The difference between the twenty-eighth embodiment shown in is essentially that one of the connecting elements 130, in particular the connecting element 130 having the guide groove 244, is provided with a retaining projection 138 only on one side.

[0755] The connecting element 130 can therefore be introduced in particular into a groove 110 which comprises only one undercut section 114 extending away from the base section 112 .

[0756] Such a groove 110 may be advantageous, for example, when using thin and less stable components 102 , 104 .

[0757] Basically, a reduction of the groove 110 to only one undercut section 114 and / or of the connecting element 130 to only one retaining projection 138 may be advantageous in all described and conceivable embodiments of the groove 110 and the connecting element 130 .

[0758] In addition Figures 88 to 92 The twenty-ninth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 82 to 87 The twenty-eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is consistent with the twenty-eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-eighth embodiment.

[0759] exist Figures 93 to 97 The thirtieth embodiment of the connection device 100 shown in Figures 82 to 87 The difference between the twenty-eighth embodiment shown in the drawing is essentially that one of the connecting elements 130, for example a connecting element 130 including a guide element 240, is arranged not to be pushed into the groove 110, but instead includes two insertion sections 386 for inserting the connecting element 130 into a corresponding (not shown) receptacle of the components 102, 104.

[0760] The insertion section 386 can be provided with grooves, ribs and / or other retaining elements, for example, so that the connecting element 130 is stably connected to the respective component 102 , 104 .

[0761] In addition Figures 93 to 97 The thirtieth embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 82 to 87 The twenty-eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is consistent with the twenty-eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , so in this regard, reference is made to the above description of the twenty-eighth embodiment.

[0762] exist Fig.98 and 99 The thirty-first embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in Figures 47 to 49 The difference between the fifteenth embodiment shown in is essentially that the connecting element 130 itself forms the hinge element 272 of the hinge device 274 .

[0763] The connecting element 130 is designed in this case so that the connecting element 130 can be received in the partial groove 364 (see Fig.79 and 80 )middle.

[0764] In particular, provision is made for the partial grooves 364 such that the groove base 118 of the respective partial groove 364 adjoins the contact surfaces 106 , 108 on one side and the side surface 310 of the respective component 102 , 104 on the other side.

[0765] The connecting element 130 arranged in the partial groove 364 can be fixed in the partial groove 364 and thus in the components 102 , 104 by means of the screw connection 162 .

[0766] The connecting element 130 and thus also the components 102 , 104 can be pivoted about a pivot axis 284 by means of the joint means 274 .

[0767] If especially by Fig.98 and 99 As can be seen from the comparison of , a pivoting movement of the components 102, 104 by approximately 90° relative to each other can be achieved in particular. Therefore, the connecting device 100 is particularly suitable for fixing a door to the body of a cabinet.

[0768] Part of the groove 364 is Fig.98 and 99 In the thirty-first embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 , it can be manufactured in particular in the following manner, that is, the components 102, 104 are placed directly against each other and are provided according to Figures 1 to 4 The only continuous groove 110 is formed.

[0769] In this case, the grooves 110 are preferably formed in the components 102 , 104 in such a way that the grooves 110 each extend substantially half into the one component 102 and substantially half into the other component 104 .

[0770] The partial groove 364 is therefore preferably a half groove, that is, Figures 1 to 4 half of the groove 110 .

[0771] By following the Fig.98 and 99 The connecting device 100 of the thirty-first embodiment shown in can in particular produce a very stable and highly precise connection of two components 102 , 104 which can be pivoted relative to one another.

[0772] In addition Fig.98 and 99 The thirty-first embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is similar in structure and function to that in FIG. Figures 47 to 49 The fifteenth embodiment is identical to the fifteenth embodiment shown in , so in this regard reference is made to the above description of the fifteenth embodiment.

[0773] In other (not shown) embodiments of the connection device 100 , individual or multiple features of the above-described embodiments may be combined as desired.

[0774] For example, it can be set to Fig.61 and 62 The connecting element 130 of the twenty-first embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG. 1 can be arranged in a partial groove 364 in the components 102, 104, respectively. In addition, it is conceivable that Figures 68 to 70 Magnetic actuation of the locking element 350 of the twenty-third embodiment of the connecting device 100 shown in FIG.

[0775] The preferred implementation is as follows:

[0776] 1. A connecting device (100) for connecting two components (102, 104), in particular for connecting furniture or mechanical parts, and / or for fixing an object to a component (102, 104),

[0777] The connecting device (100) comprises one or more connecting elements (130), which are arranged at at least one of the components (102, 104) in a connected state and / or an anchored state.

[0778] At least one connecting element (130) comprises one or more non-self-tapping retaining projections (138), each of which has a curved support surface (140) which is arc-shaped in longitudinal section.

[0779] The one or more retaining projections (138) can be inserted into a groove (110) provided at one of the components (102, 104) and having a curved undercut surface (122), the undercut surface (122) being arc-shaped in longitudinal section,

[0780] wherein the groove (110) comprises a base section (112) and one or more undercut sections (114) extending away from the base section (112) in a thickness direction (116), and

[0781] The one or more retaining projections (138) engage in the one or more undercut sections (114) of the groove (110) in a connected state and / or an anchored state.

[0782] 2. The connection device (100) according to embodiment 1 is characterized in that one or more connection elements (130) include one or more spiral engagement elements (132) or are configured as one or more spiral engagement elements (132).

[0783] 3. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 or 2, characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) include one or more retaining elements (142), which are partially or completely and / or temporarily or permanently arranged within the outer contour of the base (134) or shell of the one or more connecting elements (130).

[0784] 4. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 3, characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) include one or more retaining elements (142), which are arranged partially or completely and / or temporarily or permanently outside the outer contour of the base (134) or the shell of the one or more connecting elements (130).

[0785] 5. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 4, characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) include one or more movable retaining elements (142), in particular retaining elements (142) that can move relative to a base body (134) or a housing.

[0786] 6. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 5, characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) include one or more retaining elements (142), which, when the components (102, 104) are in a connected state, extend beyond a contact surface (106, 108) of one component (102, 104), and the contact surface (106, 108) is arranged to face the other component (104, 102) and / or the other component (104, 102) is in contact with the contact surface (106, 108).

[0787] 7. The connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 6 is characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) include a locking device (184, 368), by means of which the one connecting element (130) or the multiple connecting elements (130) can be locked to prevent the one or multiple connecting elements (130) from moving and / or rotating relative to the component (104, 102).

[0788] 8. The connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 7 is characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) include a locking device (184, 368), by means of which the one connecting element (130) or the multiple connecting elements (130) can be locked to prevent the one or multiple connecting elements (130) from moving in a groove (110) with a curved bottom cut surface (122) and / or along a groove (110) with a curved bottom cut surface (122), and the bottom cut surface (122) is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section.

[0789] 9. The connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 7 or 8 is characterized in that the locking device (184, 368) includes one or more locking elements (370), which can be placed or placed on the contact surface (106, 108) of a component (102, 104) to lock one or more connecting elements (130) to prevent the one or more connecting elements (130) from moving and / or rotating, and the contact surface (106, 108) is arranged to face another component (104, 102) and / or another component (104, 102) is abutted against the contact surface (106, 108).

[0790] 10. The connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 7 to 9 is characterized in that the locking device (184, 368) includes one or more movable, elastic, reversibly deformable and / or elastically loaded locking elements (370).

[0791] 11. The connecting device (100) according to any one of embodiments 7 to 10 is characterized in that the locking device (184, 368) includes at least two locking elements (370) arranged at opposite ends of a connecting element (130).

[0792] 12. The connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 11 is characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130), in particular the base (134) or shell of one or more connecting elements (130), includes one or more perforations (188) for accommodating fixing elements and / or locking elements.

[0793] 13. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 12, characterized in that one or more retaining elements (142) of one or more connecting elements (130) are accessible and / or operable through one or more access openings (128) in one component (102, 104) or in both components (102, 104).

[0794] 14. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 13, characterized in that one or more retaining elements (142) of one or more connecting elements (130) are accessible and / or operable by means of a magnetic device through one or more solid walls of one component (102, 104) or two components (102, 104).

[0795] 15. The connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 14 is characterized in that at least one connecting element (130) for connecting the components (102, 104) to each other can be placed or has been placed on the contact surface (106, 108) of the components (102, 104), in particular, is connected to the contact surface (106, 108) of the components (102, 104) in a screw-joined manner.

[0796] 16. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 15, characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) include one or more insertion protrusions (166) and / or one or more receiving recesses (168) for one or more insertion protrusions (166).

[0797] 17. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 16, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes two or more connecting elements (130) to be arranged at and / or in a first component (102), and / or two or more connecting elements (130) to be arranged at and / or in a second component (104), wherein in order to connect the components (102, 104) to each other, at least one connecting element (130) at and / or in the first component (102) can be engaged with the second component (104), in particular with at least one connecting element (130) at and / or in the second component (104).

[0798] 18. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 17, characterized in that the connecting device (100) comprises two or more connecting elements (130), which can be arranged at or in one of the components (102, 104) and can enable the connecting elements (130) to engage with each other.

[0799] 19. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 18, characterized in that the connecting device (100) comprises two or more connecting elements (130), which can be arranged in overlapping grooves (110) in one of the components (102, 104).

[0800] 20. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 19, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes two or more connecting elements (130) of substantially identical construction to be arranged in one of the components (102, 104) or in both components (102, 104) and used to connect the components (102, 104) to each other.

[0801] 21. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 20, characterized in that a connecting element (130) for being arranged at or in a first component (102) and a connecting element (130) for being arranged at or in a second component (104) are provided with perforations (188) in such a way that the perforations (188) overlap and are in particular aligned with each other when the components (102, 104) are in a connected state, in particular at the retaining position of the connecting elements (130).

[0802] 22. The connection device (100) according to embodiment 21 is characterized in that the through hole (188) is accessible in the connected state of the components (102, 104).

[0803] 23. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 22 is characterized in that, in the connected state of the components (102, 104), the through hole (188) can be approached through a side wall extending transversely to, and in particular at least approximately perpendicular to, the contact surface (106, 108) of the components (102, 104).

[0804] 24. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 23, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes a magnetic element (190), which can be driven by a time-varying driving magnetic field that affects the magnetic element (190) from outside the connecting device (100) for rotational movement and / or linear movement inside the connecting device (100).

[0805] 25. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 24 is characterized in that at least one retaining element (142) can be driven by means of the magnetic element (190) for rotational movement and / or linear movement relative to the housing or base (134) of the connecting element (130).

[0806] 26. The connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 24 or 25 is characterized in that the magnetic element (190) can be driven periodically, so that at least one retaining element (142) of the connecting device (100) can be operated with the aid of the magnetic element (190), in particular can be brought to a release position and / or a retaining position.

[0807] 27. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 26, characterized in that the connecting element (130) includes a receptacle (200) for a retaining element (142) of the connecting device (100), wherein the receptacle (200) is movable relative to a housing or base (134) of the connecting element (130), in particular is movably supported.

[0808] 28. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 27, characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) can be basically completely arranged in the groove (110) of the component (102, 104), so that the one connecting element (130) or the multiple connecting elements (130) do not extend beyond the contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104).

[0809] 29. A connecting device (100) for connecting two components (102, 104), in particular according to one of embodiments 1 to 28, the connecting device (100) comprising at least one connecting element (130), the connecting element (130) comprising a retaining element (142) for establishing a connection between the two components (102, 104) and a storage device (218) for storing the retaining energy of the retaining element (142).

[0810] 30. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 29 is characterized in that holding energy can be supplied to the storage device (218) before establishing the connection between the two components (102, 104) and the supplied holding energy can be stored by means of the storage device (218) until the connection is established.

[0811] 31. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 29 or 30, characterized in that the storage device (218) can be operated when the connection between the two components (102, 104) is established and / or in order to establish the connection between the two components (102, 104), so that the retaining element (142) can be brought into the retaining position using the retaining energy.

[0812] 32. The connection device (100) according to one of embodiments 29 to 31, characterized in that the storage device (218) includes a locking device for locking the elastic device in a prestressed position.

[0813] 33. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 29 to 32, characterized in that holding energy can be supplied to the storage device (218) before, during and / or after the connecting element (130) is installed in the component (102, 104).

[0814] 34. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 33, characterized in that the connecting device (100) comprises two or more connecting elements (130), which form a groove elastic member device (224), in particular a self-locking groove elastic member device (224) that can be operated by swinging.

[0815] 35. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 34, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes one or more connecting elements (130), which can be led through a through hole (232) in a component (102, 104) from the side facing away from the other component (104, 102) to another connecting element (130) and can be connected to the other connecting element (130), in particular by screw connection.

[0816] 36. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 35, characterized in that the connecting device (100) forms a guiding device (238) for guiding the components (102, 104) relative to each other, wherein one connecting element (130) includes a guiding groove (244) and wherein the other connecting element (130) includes a guiding element (240), wherein the guiding element (240) can move together with the corresponding component (102, 104) along the guiding groove (244) relative to the other component (104, 102), in particular can move linearly.

[0817] 37. The connection device (100) according to embodiment 36 is characterized in that the guide groove (244) is basically linearly constructed.

[0818] 38. A connection device (100) according to one of embodiments 36 or 37, characterized in that the guide groove (244) includes a guide section (250) at which the guide element (240) engages the guide groove (244) at the rear.

[0819] 39. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 36 to 38, characterized in that the guide groove (244) includes a slide guide portion (376) for guiding the guide element (240) along a predetermined guide path, wherein the guide path has a distance that varies along the guide groove (244) between the contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104) and / or the abutment surface (152) of the connecting element (103).

[0820] 40. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 39 is characterized in that the guide path has two maximum areas (380), which have a maximum distance between the contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104) and / or the abutment surface (152) of the connecting element (130) at least partially and in particular as a whole.

[0821] 41. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 40 is characterized in that the guide path has a minimum area (378), which has a minimum distance between the contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104) and / or the abutment surface (152) of the connecting element (130) locally or as a whole.

[0822] 42. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 40 or 41, characterized in that the guide path has a minimum area (378) arranged between the maximum areas (380) and having a locally minimum distance between the contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104) and / or the abutment surface (152) of the connecting element (130), and a terminal area (382) arranged adjacent to the maximum area (380) and away from the minimum area (378) and having a gradually decreasing distance between the contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104) and / or the abutment surface (152) of the connecting element (130).

[0823] 43. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 36 to 42, characterized in that the guide element (240) and / or the guide groove (244) includes a supporting element (246), in particular a roller element (248), for supporting the components (102, 104) movably relative to each other.

[0824] 44. A connecting device (100) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 43, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes at least one sliding element and / or at least one roller element (248), which slides along the components (102, 104) and / or rolls on the components (102, 104) when the components (102, 104) move relative to each other.

[0825] 45. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 44, characterized in that a connecting element (130) is constructed as a working surface (252) of a component (102, 104), and a moving element (246, 248) of a connecting element (130) of another component (102, 104) can move along the working surface (252).

[0826] 46. ​​A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 45, characterized in that the connecting device (100) comprises a positioning device (254) for positioning two components (102, 104), in particular two connecting elements (130), relative to each other.

[0827] 47. A connecting device (100) according to embodiment 46, characterized in that the positioning device (254) includes at least one movable, flexible, elastic and / or spring-loaded supported positioning element (256).

[0828] 48. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 46 or 47, characterized in that at least one component (102, 104) and / or at least one connecting element (130) includes at least one positioning element accommodating portion (258) for accommodating the at least one positioning element (256).

[0829] 49. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 46 to 48, characterized in that at least one positioning element (256) extends into the at least one positioning element receptacle (258) in a holding position, in which the components (102, 104) can be positioned relative to each other by means of the positioning device (254).

[0830] 50. A connecting device (100) according to any one of embodiments 46 to 49, characterized in that the components (102, 104) can be moved relative to each other by operating at least one positioning element (256) of the positioning device (254) and / or when operating at least one positioning element (256) of the positioning device (254).

[0831] 51. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 50, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes a hinge element (272), which is fixed or fixable at the first component (102), in particular fixed or fixable at the connecting element (130) at the first component (102) on the one hand, and fixed or fixable at the second component (104), in particular fixed or fixable at the connecting element (130) at the second component (104) on the other hand.

[0832] 52. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 51, characterized in that at least one connecting element (130) includes a movable locking element (286) which is movable relative to a base (134) of the connecting element (130).

[0833] 53. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 52 is characterized in that the locking element (286) is magnetically movable, in particular, is magnetically movable by magnetic drive of a drive shaft (288) coupled to the locking element (286).

[0834] 54. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 53, characterized in that the connecting device (100) comprises at least two connecting elements (130), which are arranged or can be arranged at different components (102, 104) and respectively comprise at least one magnetic element (190) and / or at least one magnetizable element, wherein the components (102, 104) can be connected to each other by magnetic attraction between the at least two magnetic elements (190) or between the at least one magnetic element (190) and the at least one magnetizable element.

[0835] 55. The connection device (100) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 54, characterized in that the connection element (130) includes a helical engagement device (318) with an angled drive.

[0836] 56. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 55, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes a movable retaining element (142), which can be moved into a release position by loading it with a force in a transverse direction (326) extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the connecting direction (170).

[0837] 57. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 56 is characterized in that the retaining element (142) is configured as a locking hook (320).

[0838] 58. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 57, characterized in that at least one connecting element (130) can be inserted into a groove (110) with a curved bottom cut surface (122) arranged at one of the components (102, 104), and the bottom cut surface (122) is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section, and the at least one connecting element (130) includes a surrounding section (334) that has an engaging function, and the surrounding section (334) engages the component (102, 104) at the side of the component (102, 104) extending transversely, in particular substantially perpendicularly, to the contact surface (106, 108).

[0839] 59. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 58, characterized in that one or more connecting elements (130) respectively include a plurality of elastic elements (338) and / or a plurality of stop elements (340) having different lengths.

[0840] 60. A connecting device (100) according to any one of embodiments 1 to 59, characterized in that the connecting device (100) comprises two connecting elements (130), and the two connecting elements (130) respectively comprise one or more elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340) and / or respectively comprise one or more elastic element accommodating portions (346) and / or stop element accommodating portions (346).

[0841] 61. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 59 or 60, characterized in that the elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340) arranged adjacent to each other have elastic noses (342) and / or stop noses (344), which extend away from the elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340) in different directions, in particular in opposite directions.

[0842] 62. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 61, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes at least one connecting element (130), which includes one or more sequences (348) composed of elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340).

[0843] 63. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 62 is characterized in that at least one of the elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340) in a sequence (348) consisting of elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340) includes an elastic nose (342) and / or a stop nose (344) arranged along a circular arc path.

[0844] 64. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 63, characterized in that the connecting device (100), in particular one or more connecting elements (130), includes a self-locking elastic device and / or a clamping device (356).

[0845] 65. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 64 is characterized in that the self-locking elastic device and / or clamping device (356) includes one or more clamping elements (360), which are oriented obliquely to the connecting direction (170) and / or the clamping element (360) is pointed away from the abutment surface (152) of the connecting element (130) with the base (134) of the connecting element (130) as the starting point.

[0846] 66. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 64 or 65, characterized in that the clamping element (360) or the plurality of clamping elements (360) are flexibly, elastically and / or spring-loaded constructed and / or flexibly, elastically and / or spring-loaded arranged on the base (134) and / or the housing of the connecting element (130).

[0847] 67. The connection device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 66, characterized in that the connection device (100) comprises at least one locking element (350) and at least one operating element (316) for operating the at least one locking element (350),

[0848] The at least one locking element (350) and the at least one operating element (316) are arranged on mutually different components (102, 104) and / or connecting elements (130).

[0849] 68. The connection device (100) according to embodiment 67 is characterized in that the at least one operating element (316) includes an eccentric element.

[0850] 69. The connection device (100) according to one of embodiments 67 or 68 is characterized in that the at least one operating element (316) can be approached from the side of the connection element (130).

[0851] 70. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 69, characterized in that at least one connecting element (130) includes one or more stop elements (340) and / or clamping elements (360), which have a substantially circular or circular segment-shaped cross-section cut parallel to the connecting direction (170).

[0852] 71. The connecting device (100) according to embodiment 70 is characterized in that the stopping element (340) and / or the clamping element (360) have different distances from each other with the abutment surface (152) of the connecting element (130) and / or the contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104).

[0853] 72. A connecting device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 71, characterized in that the connecting device (100) includes at least one connecting element (130), which can be introduced into a groove (110) in a component (102, 104) having a curved support surface (140), and the support surface (140) is arc-shaped in the longitudinal section, wherein the support surface (140) is adjacent to the contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104) only on one side.

[0854] 73. A method for connecting two components (102, 104), in particular furniture or machine parts, comprising the following steps:

[0855] - providing a connection device (100), in particular a connection device (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 72;

[0856] - introducing a connecting element (130) into one of the components (102, 104);

[0857] - connecting the connecting element (130) to a further component (104, 102), in particular to a further connecting element (130) arranged at or in the further component (104, 102).

[0858] Description of Reference Numerals

[0859] 100, connecting device; 102, component; 104, component; 106, contact surface; 108, contact surface; 110, groove; 112, base section; 114, undercut section; 116, thickness direction; 118, groove bottom surface; 120, bottom surface; 122, undercut surface; 124, limiting surface; 126, limiting wall; 128, access hole; 129, main surface; 130, connecting element; 132, screw-engaging element; 134, base; 136, base part; 138, retaining protrusion; 140, supporting surface; 142, retaining element; 144, rotation axis; 146, engaging protrusion; 148, engaging section; 150, stop; 152, abutment surface; 154, perforation; 156, recess; 158, receiving opening; 160, screw connection wrench receiving portion; 162, screw connection; 164, coupling channel; 166, insertion protrusion; 168, receiving recess; 170, connection direction; 172, square section; 174, suspension element; 176, suspension element receiving portion; 178, inclined surface; 180, locking protrusion; 182, locking groove; 184, locking device; 186, end area; 188, perforation; 190, magnetic element; 192, receiving portion (for magnetic element); 194, cut-out guide portion; 196, locking surface; 198, unlocking surface; 200, receiving portion (for retaining element); 202, elastic element; 204, cover element; 206, inner space ; 208, protrusion; 210, groove; 212, comb-shaped portion; 214, groove portion; 216, elastic element; 218, storage device; 220, storage element; 222, blocking element; 224, groove elastic member device; 226, groove portion; 228, elastic member portion; 230, spiral joint member accommodating portion; 232, perforation; 234, side; 236, spiral joint member head; 238, guide device; 240, guide element; 242, guide protrusion; 244, guide groove; 246, support element; 248, roller element; 250, guide section; 252, working surface; 254, positioning device; 256, positioning element; 258, positioning element accommodating portion; 260, steel ball; 26 2, perforation; 264, elastic element; 266, closing element; 268, countersunk screw; 270, retaining projection; 272, hinge element; 274, hinge component; 276, section (of hinge element); 278, slotted hole; 280, recess; 282, fish plate; 284, swivel axis; 286, locking element; 288, drive shaft; 292, opening (of locking element); 294, rack section; 296, gear component; 298, gear; 300, axis of rotation; 302, locking direction; 304, locking element receptacle; 306, shaft receptacle; 308, groove; 310, side; 312, front; 314, covering element; 316, operating element; 318, screw coupling component;320, stop hook; 322, stop receiving portion; 324, inclined surface; 326, transverse direction; 328, basic structure; 330, part; 332, protrusion; 334, surrounding engaging section; 336, groove; 338, elastic element; 340, stop element; 342, elastic nose; 344, stop nose; 346, receiving portion; 348, sequence; 350, locking element; 352, metal bent portion; 354, (for locking 356, clamping device; 358, clamping protrusion; 360, clamping element; 362, clamping accommodating portion; 364, partial groove; 366, stop surface; 368, locking device; 370, locking element; 372, pushing direction; 374, end area; 376, slide guide; 378, minimum area; 380, maximum area; 382, ​​end area; 384, recess; 386, insertion section; A, distance; A; 1 , distance; A 2 , distance; g, direction of gravity; h, height; b, width; T, groove depth; B, groove width.

Claims

1. A connecting device (100) for connecting two components (102, 104) and / or for fixing an object at a component (102, 104), The connecting device (100) comprises one or more connecting elements (130), which are arranged at least one of the components (102, 104) in a connected state and / or an anchored state. wherein at least one connecting element (130) comprises one or more sequences (348) of elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340), wherein at least one of the elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340) of the sequence (348) of elastic elements (338) and / or stop elements (340) comprises an elastic nose and / or a stop nose (344) arranged along a circular arc path, in, The elastic element and / or the stop element are constructed and / or arranged in such a way that the elastic nose and / or the stop nose can be brought into one or more arc-shaped undercut sections of a groove, which includes a base section and one or more undercut sections extending away from the base section in the thickness direction.

2. The connection device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that: At least one connecting element (130) comprises one or more non-self-tapping retaining projections (138), each of which has a curved support surface (140) which is arc-shaped in longitudinal section. The one or more retaining projections (138) can be inserted into a groove (110) provided at one of the components (102, 104) and having a curved undercut surface (122), the undercut surface (122) being arc-shaped in longitudinal section, wherein the groove (110) comprises a base section (112) and one or more undercut sections (114) extending away from the base section (112) in a thickness direction (116), and The one or more retaining projections (138) engage in the one or more undercut sections (114) of the groove (110) in a connected state and / or an anchored state.

3. The connection device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more connecting elements (130) include or are configured as one or more spiral engagement elements (132), One or more connecting elements (130) include one or more movable retaining elements (142), by means of which the components (102, 104) are pulled toward each other and / or pushed relative to each other.

4. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: One or more connecting elements (130) include one or more retaining elements (142) that are arranged partially or completely and / or temporarily or permanently within the outer contour of a base body (134) or a housing of the one or more connecting elements (130).

5. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: One or more connecting elements (130) include one or more retaining elements (142) that are arranged partially or completely and / or temporarily or permanently outside the outer contour of a base body (134) or a housing of the one or more connecting elements (130).

6. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: One or more connecting elements (130) include one or more retaining elements (142) movable relative to a base (134) or housing.

7. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: One or more connecting elements (130) include one or more retaining elements (142) that, when the components (102, 104) are in a connected state, extend beyond a contact surface (106, 108) of one component (102, 104), the contact surface (106, 108) being arranged to face the other component (104, 102) and / or the other component (104, 102) abuts against the contact surface (106, 108).

8. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: One or more retaining elements (142) of one or more connecting elements (130) are accessible and / or operable through one or more access openings (128) in one or both components (102, 104).

9. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: One or more retaining elements (142) of one or more connecting elements (130) are accessible and / or operable by means of magnetic means through one or more solid walls of one or both components (102, 104).

10. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: At least one connecting element (130) for connecting the components (102, 104) to one another can be placed or is placed on a contact surface (106, 108) of the components (102, 104).

11. The connection device (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that: At least one connecting element (130) for connecting the components (102, 104) to each other is connected to the contact surfaces (106, 108) of the components (102, 104) in a screw-engaged manner.

12. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting element (130) comprises a receptacle (200) for a retaining element (142) of the connecting device (100), wherein the receptacle (200) is mounted so as to be displaceable relative to a housing or a base body (134) of the connecting element (130).

13. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: One or more connecting elements (130) may be disposed substantially completely within a groove (110) of a component (102, 104) such that the connecting element (130) or the connecting elements (130) do not extend beyond a contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104).

14. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting element (130) includes an angled drive helical engagement device (318).

15. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The movable retaining element (142) is designed as a screw-engaging element (132) which can be operated by means of a drive screw (316) which can be operated via a side access opening (128).

16. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting device (100) comprises at least one locking element (350) and at least one operating element (316) for operating the at least one locking element (350), wherein the at least one operating element (316) comprises an eccentric element.

17. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting device (100) comprises at least one connecting element (130) which can be introduced into a groove (110) in a component (102, 104) having a curved supporting surface (140), the supporting surface (140) being arc-shaped in longitudinal section, wherein the supporting surface (140) adjoins a contact surface (106, 108) of the component (102, 104) only on one side.

18. The connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting device (100) is used for connecting furniture or mechanical parts.

19. A method for connecting two components (102, 104), comprising the steps of: - Provide a connection device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 18; - introducing a connecting element (130) into one of the components (102, 104); - connecting the connecting element (130) to a further component (104, 102) and / or to other connecting elements (130) arranged at or in the further component (104, 102).

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