Mechanical connection arrangement for panels

Abstract

Mechanical connection arrangement for panels, the panels comprising a first panel (15) and a second panel (16). In a locked position of the first and second panels (15, 16), a surface (17) of the first panel (15) and a surface (18) of the second panel (16) are parallel and in contact. The connection arrangement comprises at least one stem element (19) at the surface (17) of the first panel (15) and at least one corresponding insertion recess (20) at the surface (18) of the second panel (16). The connection arrangement comprises a locking device (30) comprising a locking pin (2) at one end and a spring (1) at the other end. An envelope surface (31) of a tapered end portion of the locking pin comprises a pin locking surface (33) configured to cooperate with a recess locking surface (32) of a panel recess (22) in a connected state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a mechanical connection arrangement for a panel, the panel comprising a first panel and a second panel, wherein in a locked position of the first and second panels, the surfaces of the first and second panels are parallel and in contact. The connection arrangement includes at least one rod-like element on the surface of the first panel and at least one corresponding insertion recess on the surface of the second panel. The rod-like element is configured to be inserted into the insertion recess, wherein the rod-like element extends from the surface of the first panel at a first angle, and the insertion recess extends from the surface of the second panel into the second panel at a second angle. Both the first and second angles are in the range of 30° to 60°, more preferably in the range of 40° to 50°, wherein the connection arrangement includes a spring-loaded locking device having a spring at one end and a locking pin at the other end. The locking device is arranged in the first panel recess of one of the panels at an angle of 85 to 95 degrees relative to the contact surfaces between the two panels, and is arranged such that when the arrangement is in the connected state, the locking pin engages in the second panel recess of the other panel. Background Technology

[0002] In the past, assembling two or more objects into one (such as furniture) required tools such as drills, screwdrivers, hammers, and wrenches.

[0003] Starting with click-lock flooring, tool-free assembly has been further developed, and to some extent, all types of household furniture can be assembled without tools or with minimal tools.

[0004] WO2020 / 046193 discloses a kit including a first panel, a second panel, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel to the second panel. The first panel includes a first edge surface, and the second panel includes a second panel surface. The mechanical locking device includes at least one rod-shaped element extending from the first edge surface at a first angle. An insertion groove extends from the second panel surface into the second panel surface at a second angle. The mechanical locking device also includes at least one locking groove and at least one locking member. The locking groove includes at least one locking surface extending from the first edge surface or from the second panel surface at a third angle. The locking member is configured to insert into the locking groove and lock against the locking surface. The third angle is different from the first angle.

[0005] WO2020 / 046194 discloses a kit including a first panel, a second panel, and a mechanical locking device for locking the first panel to the second panel. The first panel includes a first edge surface, and the second panel includes a second panel surface. The mechanical locking device includes at least one rod-like element at the first edge surface and at least one insertion groove at the second panel surface. The rod-like element is configured to be inserted into the insertion groove. The kit also includes a rear panel and at least one locking gear, the rear panel being configured to be inserted into and engage with at least one of the first and second panel grooves, and the locking gear being configured to engage with the rear panel and the first and / or second panel groove for locking the first panel to the second panel. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure preferably seek to provide alternative installation solutions by providing a mechanical connection arrangement according to the appended patent claims, which requires minimal tools and facilitates a tight fit between the two panels.

[0007] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a mechanical connection arrangement for a panel includes a first panel and a second panel, wherein, in a locked position, the surfaces of the first panel and the second panel are parallel and in contact. The connection arrangement includes at least one rod-like element on the surface of the first panel and at least one corresponding insertion recess on the surface of the second panel. The rod-like element is configured to be inserted into the insertion recess. The rod-like element extends from the surface of the first panel at a first angle, and the insertion recess extends from the surface of the second panel into the second panel at a second angle. Both the first and second angles are in the range of about 30° to about 60°, for example, about 40° to about 50°. The connection arrangement includes a locking device comprising a locking pin at one end and a spring at the other end, wherein the spring is configured to engage with a first panel recess of one of the panels, and the locking pin is configured to engage with a second panel recess of the other panel when the arrangement is in a connected state. One end portion of the locking pin is tapered, for example, shaped as a truncated cone including a top surface, which is the end face of the locking pin. The envelope surface of the tapered end portion includes a pin locking surface, which is configured to mate with a recessed locking surface of the second panel recess in the connected state.

[0008] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the longitudinal central axis of the locking pin is at an angle relative to the contact surface between the two panels, wherein the angle is in the range of about 85° to about 95°.

[0009] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the difference between the first angle and the second angle is between 0.5° and 3°. This provides a tighter panel fit compared to the case where there is no difference between the angles.

[0010] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the slope angle of the truncated cone is between about 3° and about 20°, for example, between 5° and 15°.

[0011] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the truncated cone is a straight cone.

[0012] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the height of the inclined plane of the truncated cone is at least 40% of the diameter of the top surface.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the side of the locking pin includes a radially extending recess having an internally inclined surface that slopes axially toward the end portion of the locking pin and originates at an axial point located on the side of the recess opening closest to the end with the spring. The recess can provide the possibility of unlocking the connection arrangement by inserting a tool into the recess.

[0014] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the recess in the locking pin is a through hole, thus providing a recess opening and a recess exit. This allows a tool to pass through the locking pin.

[0015] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the width of the recess of the locking pin is between 30% and 70% of the diameter of the locking pin, for example, between 40% and 60% of the diameter of the locking pin.

[0016] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the height of the recessed opening in the locking pin in the axial direction is between 1.6 and 2.5 times, for example, about 2 times, the height of the recessed outlet on the opposite side of the locking pin.

[0017] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a panel having a first panel recess includes a maintenance recess in a direction perpendicular to the first panel recess, the maintenance recess being arranged such that two recesses meet at a distance below the contact surface of the panel. The maintenance recess allows tools to be inserted into the panel and further into the recess of a locking pin.

[0018] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the maintenance recess extends beyond the first panel recess such that the two recesses intersect. This allows tools to be inserted and keeps the locking device in a compressed state.

[0019] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the second panel recess includes a beveled opening edge at least along a portion of its circumference. The beveled edge can facilitate fitting a locking pin into the recess.

[0020] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the recessed panel has a conical shape corresponding to the conical shape of the locking pin. Therefore, in the locked position, the locking surface area between the locking pin and the recessed panel is increased.

[0021] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the recesses in the panel are machined.

[0022] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the longitudinal central axis of the locking pin is perpendicular to the contact surface between the panels.

[0023] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the locking device includes two opposing radially projecting portions at the end of the spring furthest from the locking pin. This can, to some extent, prevent the locking device from rotating within its recess in the panel.

[0024] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the locking device comprises a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic material, and optionally has a reinforcing material, such as glass fiber.

[0025] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the spring and the locking pin can be injection molded as a single piece.

[0026] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the panel is a wood-based panel, such as HDF, MDF, or plywood.

[0027] According to another aspect of this disclosure, furniture components are formed by the first panel and the second panel.

[0028] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the furniture component is part of furniture products such as bookshelves, cabinets, wardrobes, boxes, drawers, kitchen cabinets, countertops, or tabletops.

[0029] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a mechanical connection arrangement for a panel includes a first panel and a second panel, wherein, in a locked position, the surfaces of the first panel and the second panel are parallel and in contact. The connection arrangement includes at least one rod-shaped element at a surface of the first panel and at least one corresponding insertion recess at a surface of the second panel, wherein the rod-shaped element is configured to be inserted into the insertion recess. The rod-shaped element extends from the surface of the first panel at a first angle, and the insertion recess extends from the surface of the second panel into the second panel at a second angle, wherein both the first and second angles are in the range of about 30° to about 60°, for example, about 40° to about 50°. The connection arrangement includes a locking device comprising a locking pin at one end and a spring at the other end, wherein the spring is configured to engage with a first panel recess in one of the panels, and the locking pin is configured to engage with a second panel recess in the other panel when the arrangement is in a connected state. One end portion of the locking pin includes a pin-locking surface that, in the engaged state, is configured to engage with a recessed locking surface of the second panel recess. The side of the locking pin includes a radially extending recess. This recess has an internally inclined surface that slopes axially toward the end portion of the locking pin and originates at an axial point on the side of the recess opening closest to the end with the spring.

[0030] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the end portion of the locking pin includes an envelope surface that includes a pin locking surface.

[0031] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the recess of the locking pin is a through hole, thus having a recess opening and a recess outlet.

[0032] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the width of the recess of the locking pin is between 30% and 70% of the diameter of the locking pin, more preferably between 40% and 60% of the diameter of the locking pin.

[0033] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the height of the recess opening in the axial direction is between 1.6 and 2.5 times, for example, about 2 times, the height of the recess exit on the opposite side of the locking pin.

[0034] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the panel having a first panel recess includes a maintenance recess in a direction perpendicular to the first panel recess, the maintenance recess being arranged such that the two recesses are connected at a distance below the contact surface of the panel.

[0035] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the repair recess extends beyond the first panel recess, such that the two recesses intersect.

[0036] According to another aspect of this disclosure, furniture components are formed by the first panel and the second panel.

[0037] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the furniture component is part of furniture products such as bookshelves, cabinets, wardrobes, boxes, drawers, kitchen cabinets, countertops, or tabletops.

[0038] It should be emphasized that, when used in this specification, the term "comprising" is used to indicate the presence of a stated feature, integral, step, or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, components, or groups thereof.

[0039] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent when examined in light of the appended claims and the following description. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the invention can be combined to create embodiments other than those described below, without departing from the scope of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0040] These and other aspects, features, and advantages that can be achieved by the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent and will be explained from the following description of the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a locking device according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of the locking device.

[0043] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A cross-sectional perspective view of the locking device.

[0044] Figures 4 to 9 The following shows how a locking device is used to attach one panel to another.

[0045] Figure 10A This is a side view of a connection arrangement structure according to one embodiment.

[0046] Figure 10B yes Figure 10A A magnified view of a portion of it.

[0047] Figures 11 to 14 The unlocking of the connection arrangement structure is shown in sequence.

[0048] Figure 15A -D is a side view of an alternative embodiment of this arrangement structure.

[0049] Figure 16 It is a perspective view of two panels joined by a connecting arrangement structure. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Specific embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the embodiments shown in the drawings is not intended to limit the invention. In the drawings and description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0051] Figure 4-9 The process of connecting two panels to each other is illustrated. Thus, a first panel 15 and a second panel 16 are present, wherein in the locked positions of the first panel 15 and the second panel 16, surface 17 of the first panel 15 is parallel to and in contact with surface 18 of the second panel 16. This connection arrangement includes at least one rod-shaped element 19 on surface 17 of the first panel 15 and at least one corresponding insertion recess 20 on surface 18 of the second panel 16.

[0052] The first panel 15 and / or the second panel 16 may be wood-based panels.

[0053] The wood-based paneling can be HDF, MDF, or plywood.

[0054] Furniture components formed by panels 15 and 16 can be part of furniture products such as bookshelves, cabinets, wardrobes, boxes, drawers, kitchen cabinets, countertops, or tabletops.

[0055] The process of connecting the first panel 15 to the second panel 16 includes: displacement of the first panel relative to the second panel in a direction 50 parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the rod element 19, and compression of a spring, the spring comprising any spring-like material or arrangement.

[0056] A rod-shaped element 19 is configured to be inserted into an insertion recess 20. The rod-shaped element 19 extends from the surface 17 of the first panel 15 at a first angle, and the insertion recess 20 extends from the surface 18 of the second panel 16 into the second panel 16 at a second angle. Both the first and second angles can be 30-60 degrees, for example 35-55 degrees, such as about 45 degrees. The connection arrangement includes a locking device comprising a spring 1 at one end and a locking pin 2 at the other end.

[0057] The locking pin 2 is arranged at least partially at an angle relative to the contact surface between the two panels 15, 16 in a first panel recess 21 of one of the panels 15, 16, the angle being in the range of about 85° to about 95°, and the locking pin 2 is arranged such that when the arrangement is in the connected state, one end of the locking pin 2 partially engages in a second panel recess 22 of the other panel 15, 16.

[0058] The first panel recess 21 can be a cylindrical hole, for example, a drilled hole. The second panel recess 22 can also be a cylindrical hole, for example, a drilled hole.

[0059] The end portion of the locking pin 2 may be tapered, for example, shaped as a truncated cone including a top surface, which is the end face of the locking pin.

[0060] In one embodiment of this connection arrangement, panels 15 and 16 are brought close together such that the rod-shaped element and the corresponding recess in the other panel are aligned. At a certain moment, as... Figure 5 As shown, the second panel 16 is in contact with the top of the locking pin 2.

[0061] like Figure 6 As shown, panels 15 and 16 are closer together, and spring 1 is slightly compressed. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the middle, the end 2 of the locking pin is brought closer to be aligned with the second panel recess 22.

[0062] Finally, Figure 9 In the middle, the locking pin 2 has been engaged in the second panel recess 22, and the two panels 15 and 16 are connected to each other.

[0063] exist Figure 10A The diagram illustrates an advantage of the tapered end portion of the locking pin 2: as can be seen, the locking pin 2 and the second panel recess 22 are not perfectly aligned. Nevertheless, the two panels 15, 16 remain locked to each other due to the tapered end portion of the locking pin 2. To further facilitate the connection, the second panel recess 22 may include a bevel 24 located at the edge of the opening. The bevel 24 may extend along the circumference of the recess.

[0064] Figure 10B yes Figure 10A An enlarged view of a portion shows that the envelope 31 of the tapered end portion of the locking pin includes a pin locking surface 33, which is configured in the connected state to engage with the recessed locking surface 32 of the second panel recess 22.

[0065] The second panel recess 22 may include a first side 41 and an opposite second side 42, and a bottom surface 43 extending between the first side 41 and the opposite second side 42. The first side may include a recess locking surface 32.

[0066] The second panel 16 may include a layer 45 of higher density material on surface 18. The recessed locking surface 32 may be located within layer 45, which can improve the locking strength of the locking device.

[0067] The difference between the first angle and the second angle is between 0.5° and 5°, for example, between 1° and 4°, preferably about 3°.

[0068] The bevel angle of the truncated cone can be 5 to 15 degrees, for example 8-12 degrees, such as about 10 degrees in the illustrated embodiment, and the truncated cone can be a straight cone. The longitudinal central axis of the locking pin is perpendicular to the contact surface between the panels 15 and 16.

[0069] The truncated cone's inclined plane height 65 can be at least 40% of the top diameter 66, for example, 40% to 200%, or 40% to 100%.

[0070] A truncated cone can be symmetrical.

[0071] The locking pin has a radially extending recess 11 on its side, the recess having an internally inclined surface 12 that slopes axially toward the locking pin 2 and originates at an axial point 13. The axial point 13 is located on the side of the recess opening closest to the end of the locking device with the spring 1. Figure 1-3 .

[0072] The recess 11 in the locking pin can be a through hole, so that there is a recess opening and a recess outlet.

[0073] The width 62 of the recess 11 of the locking pin 2 can be between 30% and 70% of the diameter 61 of the locking pin 2, for example, between 40% and 60% of the diameter 61 of the locking pin 2.

[0074] The height 63 of the recess opening in the axial direction can be 1.6 to 2.5 times, for example, about 2 times, the height 64 of the recess outlet on the opposite side of the locking pin 2.

[0075] The panel 15 having a first panel recess 21 has a maintenance recess 23 in a direction perpendicular to the first panel recess 21. The maintenance recess 23 is arranged such that two recesses 21, 23 are connected at a certain distance below the contact surface of the panel 15. The maintenance recess 23 further extends beyond the first panel recess 21, such that the two recesses 21, 23 intersect.

[0076] exist Figures 11 to 14 The diagram illustrates the unlocking or disassembly of the connection arrangement. A tool 25 is inserted into the maintenance recess 23. The tool may have an angle at its end similar to the included angle ε on the inclined surface 12 of the recess through which the locking pin 2 passes. The further the tool 25 is pushed into the maintenance recess 23, the more the spring is compressed, until the panels 15, 16 can be pulled open and the tool 25 is pushed completely through the recess, as shown. Figures 12 to 14 As shown. Since the maintenance recess 23 passes through the panel recess 21, it is not necessary to hold the tool 25, i.e., the tool 25 does not remain in this position.

[0077] Figure 15AAn alternative embodiment of the second panel recess 22 is shown, which includes a conical shape corresponding to the truncated conical shape of the locking pin 2. Therefore, when the panels 15 and 16 are locked together, the contact locking surfaces 32 and 33 increase.

[0078] Figure 15B An alternative embodiment of the locking pin 2 and an alternative embodiment of the second panel recess 22 are shown, the locking pin 2 including a cylindrical end portion and the second panel recess 22 including a cylindrical shape corresponding to the cylindrical end portion. Therefore, when the panels 15, 16 are locked together, the contact locking surfaces 32, 33 increase.

[0079] Figure 15C An alternative embodiment of the locking pin 2 and an embodiment including a conical second panel recess 22 are shown. This combination has the effect that panels 15, 16 can be locked together even if the first and second panel recesses are not perfectly aligned.

[0080] Figure 15D An alternative embodiment of the locking pin 2, including a top surface 35, is shown. The top surface 35 has a rounded shape, which facilitates the process of connecting the panels 15, 16 to each other. The rounded top surface 35 can have a low-friction effect as the top surface moves along and relative to the surface of the second panel. The rounded top surface 35 can facilitate the locking pin 2 engaging with the recess 22 of the second panel. The rounded top surface can be combined with any other embodiment disclosed herein.

[0081] For background purposes, Figure 16 An example of two panels 15 and 16 connected using the connection arrangement structure described above is shown.

[0082] The first panel 15 may include a main surface 51, parallel and opposite main surfaces 52, and an edge surface 53 extending between the main surface 51 and the opposite main surface 52.

[0083] The second panel 16 may include a main surface 54, parallel and opposite main surfaces 55, and an edge surface 56 extending between the main surface 54 and the opposite main surfaces 55.

[0084] In the locked position of the first panel 15 and the second panel 16, the main surface 51 of the first panel 15 and the main surface 54 of the second panel 16 can be perpendicular to each other.

[0085] In the locked position of the first panel 15 and the second panel 16, the edge surface 53 of the first panel 15 and the main surface 54 of the second panel 16 can be parallel and in contact.

[0086] In the locked position, the edge surface 56 of the second panel 16 can be parallel to the main surface 51 of the first panel 51.

[0087] For background purposes, Figure 17 An example of two panels 15 and 16 connected using the connection arrangement structure described above is shown.

[0088] The first panel 15 may include a main surface 51, parallel and opposite main surfaces 52, and an edge surface 53 extending between the main surface 51 and the opposite main surface 52.

[0089] The second panel 16 may include a main surface 54, parallel and opposite main surfaces 55, and an edge surface 56 extending between the main surface 54 and the opposite main surfaces 55.

[0090] In the locked position of the first panel 15 and the second panel 16, the main surface 51 of the first panel 15 and the main surface 54 of the second panel 16 can be parallel to each other.

[0091] In the locked position of the first panel 15 and the second panel 16, the edge surface 53 of the first panel 15 and the edge surface 56 of the second panel 16 can be parallel and in contact.

[0092] Figure 17 The example in the image shows two panels that can be locked together to create a work surface or tabletop.

[0093] The recesses 20, 21, 22, and 23 in panels 15 and 16 can be machined.

[0094] In addition, such as Figures 1 to 3 As best shown, the locking device 30 includes two opposing radially projecting portions 14 at the end portion of the spring furthest from the locking pin 2, so that the risk of the locking device 30 rotating and causing the tool 25 to be unable to be inserted into the panel recess 11 is minimized.

[0095] Regarding spring 1, one embodiment of the spring is described in more detail below. However, any type of spring can be used in connection arrangement structures.

[0096] Figure 1A locking device 30 is shown, comprising a spring 1 and a locking pin 2. The locking device 30 can be configured to lock two components together. As can be seen from the figure, the spring 1 is a sequence of first elements 7 and second elements 8, each of which includes a disc-shaped component 5 and two supports 6 (or two supports 9). Two opposing bridging supports 6, 9 are arranged equidistant from the center of the disc-shaped component 5 and on the same side of the disc-shaped component 5. Furthermore, the elements 7, 8 with the supports 6, 9 are arranged such that the disc-shaped components 5 are parallel to each other. The first element 7, having supports 6 pointing towards the second element 8, is connected to the second element 8 via the supports 6, wherein the supports 9 of the second element 8 are opposite to the first element 7 and point towards the next element. When viewed axially, the straight line between the supports 6 of the first element 7 is perpendicular to the line between the supports 9 of the second element 8.

[0097] One advantage of this embodiment of spring 1 is that when spring 1 is compressed, the outer diameter 67 of the spring does not increase, or the increase in the outer diameter 67 is negligible, for example, less than 0.3 mm. This can have the effect that when the spring is compressed, spring 1 is not clamped in the first panel recess 21.

[0098] The locking device 30 may comprise a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic material, and optionally a reinforcing material, such as glass fiber.

[0099] Spring 1 and locking pin 2 can be injection molded into a single piece.

[0100] The disc-shaped component 5 can be circular or oval, and the disc-shaped component 5 can have a centrally located circular opening 10. Therefore, the spring 1 shown can be considered as being made of a series of circular components 5 having bridging supports 6, 9.

[0101] The circular opening 10 can form an axial hole that extends through the spring.

[0102] The axial hole or recess may be slightly conical, such that the diameter d near the end of the locking pin 2 is smaller than the diameter D at the end of the spring away from the end of the locking pin 2. For example, D may be 1.05 to 2 times the size of d, such as 1.1 to 1.5 times, such as about 1.3 times.

[0103] The illustrated embodiment has 12 elements, but any number of elements, such as 3-20 or 5-15, can be considered depending on where the spring is to be used.

[0104] The axial distance 51 between two adjacent disc-shaped components 5 is greater than the axial thickness 52 of a single disc-shaped component 5.

[0105] In an exemplary embodiment, the bridging struts 6 and 9 on a disc-shaped component can be separated by the axial hole, so that the bridging struts on a disc-shaped component can be separated by a bridging strut distance, which can be equal to the diameter d / D of the axial hole at the bridging strut.

[0106] The distance between the bridging struts in the radial direction can be between 1.5 times and 4 times the axial distance 51 between two adjacent disc-shaped components 5, more preferably between 2 times and 3 times the axial distance 51 between two adjacent disc-shaped components 5.

[0107] It can also be seen that the disc element 5 and the supports 6 and 9, together with the locking pin 2, are made of the same material. For example, the spring could be injection molded.

[0108] Furthermore, the disc-shaped component 5 at one end of the spring may have two opposing radial protrusions 14. When the locking device is inserted into the hole / recess in the panel, the locking pin with these protrusions 14 may exhibit rotational resistance due to the contact between the protrusions 14 and the hole / recess.

[0109] Turning Figure 2 The bridging supports 6 and 9 may have concave surfaces and opposing concave surfaces. These concave and opposing concave surfaces may extend between two adjacent disc-shaped components 5. These concave and opposing concave surfaces may have curved surfaces with a radius of r. The radius r may be approximately half the distance 51 between adjacent disc-shaped components 5 of adjacent supports 6 and 9.

[0110] The axial distance between the disc-shaped components 5 can increase from one end of the spring 1 to the other. For example, this axial distance can be greater at the end with the locking pin 2, or vice versa.

[0111] Furthermore, the average axial thickness of the disc-shaped component 5 decreases from one end of the spring 1 towards the other. This can also be seen from the gradually increasing angle between the disc-shaped components 5 from one end of the spring towards the other. For example, the angle α between the second disc-shaped component 5 and the third disc-shaped component 5 can be close to 0 degrees, for example, 0-5 degrees. This angle can increase linearly upwards, such that the angle β between two adjacent disc-shaped components 5 at the end of the spring 2 near the locking pin 2 can be greater than the angle α at the other end of the spring. The angle between each consecutive disc-shaped component 5 can increase.

[0112] The spring can be injection molded, and its slightly conical shape facilitates the removal of the molded pin.

[0113] An increasing angle from α to β can be configured to compensate for a decreasing diameter from D to d. A smaller angle allows for more material in the disc-shaped component 5.

[0114] The axial thickness 51 of the disc-shaped component is measured at its thinnest point. The axial thickness 51 of the disc-shaped component 5 can be reduced when the diameter of the axial hole / recess decreases. This has the effect that the spring constant remains substantially constant over the entire length of the spring, for example, varying by no more than 20% over the entire length.

[0115] The locking pin has a radially extending recess 11 on its side, the recess 11 having an inner inclined surface 12 that is axially inclined toward the locking pin and originates at an axial point 13, the axial point 13 being located on the side of the recess opening closest to the end of the locking pin connected to the spring. When viewed from the locking pin side, the angle ε of the inclined surface can be 15-45 degrees, for example 20-40 degrees, for example about 30 degrees.

[0116] exist Figure 3 As shown more clearly in the diagram, the recess 11 is a through hole, thus having a recess opening and a recess outlet.

[0117] In addition, the leading end of the spring 1 has a beveled edge 26 to facilitate the insertion of the spring 1 into the first panel recess 21 of the first panel 15.

[0118] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms, unless otherwise expressly stated. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “include,” when used in this specification, indicate the presence of stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It should be understood that when an element is described as “connected” or “linked” to another element, it may be directly connected or linked to the other element, or there may be intervening elements.

[0119] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0120] While several embodiments of the invention have been described and illustrated herein, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of a variety of other ways and / or structures for performing the functions described herein and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more advantages described herein, and each such variation and / or modification is considered to be within the scope of the invention. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily understand that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are exemplary, and actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend on one or more specific applications in which the teachings of the invention are applied.

[0121] As used herein in the specification and claims, the indefinite articles “a” and “an” shall be understood to mean “at least one” unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0122] Other embodiments of the present invention will be described below:

[0123] 1. A mechanical connection arrangement for a panel, the panel comprising a first panel 15 and a second panel 16, wherein, in a locked position of the first panel 15 and the second panel 16, surfaces 17 of the first panel 15 and 18 of the second panel 16 are parallel and in contact, the connection arrangement comprising at least one rod-shaped element 19 at surface 17 of the first panel 15 and at least one corresponding insertion recess 20 at surface 18 of the second panel 16, wherein the rod-shaped element 19 is configured to be inserted into the insertion recess 20, wherein the rod-shaped element 19 extends from surface 17 of the first panel 15 at a first angle, and the insertion recess 20 extends from surface 18 of the second panel 16 at a second angle to the second panel 16. In plate 16, where both the first and second angles are in the range of 30 to 60 degrees, more preferably in the range of 40 to 50 degrees, the connection arrangement includes a spring-loaded locking device 30 having a spring 1 at one end and a locking pin 2 at the other end. The locking pin 2 is arranged in a first locking pin recess 21 of one of the plates 15 and 16 at an angle of 85 to 95 degrees relative to the contact surface between the two plates 15 and 16, and is arranged such that when the arrangement is in the connected state, the locking pin 2 engages in a second locking pin recess 22 of the other plate 15 and 16. The locking pin 2 is a truncated cone, and the end face of the locking pin is the top surface of the truncated cone.

[0124] 2. According to the arrangement structure of Embodiment 1, the difference between the first angle and the second angle is between 0.5 and 3 degrees.

[0125] 3. The arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the slope angle of the truncated cone is between 3 and 20 degrees, more preferably between 5 and 15 degrees.

[0126] 4. The arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the truncated cone is a straight cone.

[0127] 5. The arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the inclined plane height 65 of the truncated cone is at least 40% of the top surface diameter 66.

[0128] 6. The arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the side of the locking pin has a radially extending recess 11, the recess having an inner inclined surface 12, the inner inclined surface 12 being inclined axially toward the locking pin 2 and starting at an axial point 13, the axial point 13 being located on the side of the recess opening closest to the end of the locking pin with the spring 1.

[0129] 7. According to the arrangement structure described in Embodiment 6, the recess 11 in the locking pin is a through hole, thus having a recess opening and a recess outlet.

[0130] 8. The arrangement structure according to any one of embodiments 6-7, wherein the width 62 of the recess 11 in the locking pin is between 30% and 70% of the diameter 61 of the locking pin, more preferably between 40% and 60% of the diameter of the locking pin.

[0131] 9. According to the arrangement structure of embodiment 7, wherein the height 63 of the recess opening in the locking pin in the axial direction is between 1.6 and 2.1 times the height 64 of the recess outlet located on the opposite side of the locking pin 2.

[0132] 10. The arrangement structure according to any one of embodiments 6-9, wherein the panel 15 having the first locking pin recess 21 has a maintenance recess 23 in a direction perpendicular to the first locking pin recess 21, and the maintenance recess 23 is arranged such that the two recesses 21, 23 are connected at a certain distance below the contact surface of the panel 15.

[0133] 11. According to the arrangement structure of embodiment 10, the maintenance recess 23 extends beyond the first locking pin recess 21, such that the two recesses 21, 23 intersect.

[0134] 12. The arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the second locking pin recess 22 has a beveled opening edge 24 along at least a portion of its circumference.

[0135] 13. The arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the recess 22 has a conical shape corresponding to the truncated cone of the locking pin 2.

[0136] 14. The arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the central axis of the locking pin is perpendicular to the contact surface between the panels.

[0137] 15. The arrangement structure according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the spring-loaded locking pin 2 has two opposing radial protrusions 14 at the spring end furthest from the locking pin 2.

Claims

1. A mechanical connection arrangement for a panel, the panel comprising a first panel (15) and a second panel (16), wherein in a locked position of the first panel (15) and the second panel (16), the surfaces (17) of the first panel (15) and the second panel (16) are parallel and in contact, the connection arrangement comprising at least one rod-shaped element (19) on the surface (17) of the first panel (15) and at least one corresponding insertion recess (20) on the surface (18) of the second panel (16), wherein the rod-shaped element (19) is configured to be inserted into the insertion recess (20), wherein the rod-shaped element (19) is at a first angle from the first panel. The surface (17) of the plate (15) extends, and the insertion recess (20) extends from the surface (18) of the second panel (16) into the second panel (16) at a second angle, wherein both the first angle and the second angle are in the range of 30° to 60°, wherein the connecting arrangement includes a locking device (30), the locking device (30) including a locking pin (2) at one end and a spring (1) at the other end, wherein the spring (1) is configured to engage with a first panel recess (21) of one of the panels (15, 16), and the locking pin (2) is configured to engage with a second panel recess (22) of the other panel (15, 16) when the arrangement is in the connected state, characterized in that, The end portion of the locking pin (2) is tapered, and the envelope surface (31) of the tapered end portion includes a pin locking surface (33), which is configured in the connected state to engage with the recess locking surface (32) of the second panel recess (22), wherein the side of the locking pin includes a radially extending recess (11) having an internal inclined surface (12) that is axially inclined toward the end portion of the locking pin (2) and begins at an axial point (13) located on the side of the recess opening closest to the end with the spring (1).

2. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 1, wherein, Both the first angle and the second angle are within the range of 40° to 50°.

3. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 1, wherein, The end portion of the locking pin (2) is formed as a truncated cone including a top surface, which is the end face of the locking pin.

4. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The difference between the first angle and the second angle is between 0.5° and 3°.

5. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 3, wherein, The slope angle of the truncated cone is between 3° and 20°.

6. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 5, wherein, The slope angle of the truncated cone is between 5° and 15°.

7. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 3, wherein, The truncated cone is a straight cone.

8. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 3, wherein, The height (65) of the inclined plane of the truncated cone is at least 40% of the diameter (66) of the top surface.

9. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The recess (11) of the locking pin (2) is a through hole, thus having a recess opening and a recess outlet.

10. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The width (62) of the recess (11) of the locking pin (2) is between 30% and 70% of the diameter (61) of the locking pin (2).

11. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 10, wherein, The width (62) of the recess (11) of the locking pin (2) is between 40% and 60% of the diameter (61) of the locking pin (2).

12. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 9, wherein, The height (63) of the recess opening in the axial direction is between 1.6 and 2.5 times the height (64) of the recess outlet located on the opposite side of the locking pin (2).

13. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 12, wherein, The height (63) of the recess opening in the axial direction is twice the height (64) of the recess outlet located on the opposite side of the locking pin (2).

14. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The panel (15) having the first panel recess (21) has a maintenance recess (23) in a direction perpendicular to the first panel recess (21), and the maintenance recess (23) is arranged such that the first panel recess (21) and the maintenance recess (23) are connected at a certain distance below the contact surface of the panel (15).

15. The mechanical arrangement structure according to claim 14, wherein, The maintenance recess (23) extends beyond the first panel recess (21) such that the two recesses (21, 23) intersect.

16. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The second panel recess (22) includes a ramp (24) at the opening (44) of the second panel recess (22), wherein the ramp (24) extends at least a portion of the circumference of the second panel recess (22).

17. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The second panel recess (22) has a conical shape corresponding to the conical shape of the locking pin (2).

18. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The longitudinal center axis of the locking pin is perpendicular to the contact surface between the panels.

19. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The locking device (30) includes two opposing radially projecting portions (14) located at the end of the spring furthest from the locking pin (2).

20. The mechanical arrangement structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The longitudinal direction of the locking pin (2) is at an angle relative to the contact surface between the two panels (15, 16), wherein the angle is in the range of 85° to 95°.

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