Locking device with adjustable connecting element

Abstract

The invention relates to a locking device having an adjustable connecting element. The locking device (1) comprises a first locking part (2) having a first body (20), an engagement means (21) arranged on the first body (20) and a first magnetic means (22A, 22B), and a second locking part (3) having a second body (30), a connection element (34A, 34B) movably arranged on the second body (30), and a second magnetic means (22A, 22B) arranged on the second connection element (34A, 34B). And a second magnetic means (32A, 32B) at the first magnetic means (32A, 32B). The connecting element (34A, 34B) can be pivoted relative to the second body (20) about an axis of rotation (D) in order to adjust the connecting element (34A, 34B) into a functional position in an adjustment direction (V) directed about the axis of rotation (D), the connecting element (34A, 34B) engaging in a form-fitting manner with the engagement means (21) of the first closure part (2) in a closed position such that the connecting element (34A, 34B) engages with the engagement means (21) of the first closure part (2) in a closed position. 34A, 34B) relative to the first locking part (2) opposite the adjustment direction (V) is locked due to a positive engagement.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a locking device according to the preamble of claim 1. Background Art

[0002] Such a locking device includes a first locking member and a second locking member. The first locking member has a first body portion, engaging means provided at the first body portion, and a first magnetic means. The second locking member has a second body portion, a connecting element movably provided at the second body portion, and a second magnetic means provided at the connecting element. To close the locking device, the first locking member and the second locking member can be attached to each other. In the closed position, the connecting element engages with the engaging means to hold the first locking member and the second locking member together. To open the locking device, the engagement between the connecting element and the engaging means can be canceled so that the first locking member and the second locking member can be separated from each other.

[0003] In the locking device, the connecting element at the second body portion of the second locking member can be adjusted between an initial position and a functional position and projects relative to the second body portion in the functional position so that the connecting element can engage with the engaging means of the first locking member. In the initial position, the connecting element is at least partially received in the body portion. The first magnetic means and the second magnetic means are configured to act together magnetically attractively when the first locking member and the second locking member approach each other in order to transfer the connecting element from the initial position to the functional position.

[0004] In the locking device known from DE 10 2010 044 198 A1, a spring locking element is provided at the locking member, which engages with an engaging element of another locking member in the closed position. The engaging element is received in the housing of another locking member in the initial position such that the engaging element does not project out of the housing or only projects out of the housing insignificantly in the initial position. The engaging element can be adjusted out of the initial position relative to the housing such that in the functional position, the engaging element projects out of the housing and can engage with the spring locking element to connect the locking members.

[0005] The locking device known from US 6,659,516 for locking a laptop in the closed position has a hook element that is received in an associated housing in the initial position and can pivot out of the housing for locking.

[0006] In a latching device known, for example, from DE 10 2010 044 198 A1, the engaging element moves out at one latching part when the latching parts approach each other, in order to engage with a spring locking element at the other latching part in the closed position and to establish a connection between the latching parts in the closed position. Here, the engaging element is elastically preloaded, for example by a spring, relative to the body of the associated latching part towards the initial position, which causes the latching parts to bear against each other in a preloaded manner in the closed position.

[0007] When using the latching device, for example, in a motor vehicle, or when using it, for example, at a padded surface, it may be desirable that the latching parts do not bear against each other over a large area in the closed position, in order to achieve a reliable connection between the latching parts even in the case of an irregularly shaped, for example padded, surface. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a latching device which can be used variably and which achieves a reliable connection between the latching parts even, for example, at an irregularly shaped surface.

[0009] This object is achieved by the subject matter having the features of claim 1.

[0010] Accordingly, the connecting element can pivot relative to the second body about a rotational axis in order to adjust the connecting element into a functional position in an adjustment direction pointing around the rotational axis, wherein the connecting element engages form - fitingly with the engaging means of the first latching part in the closed position, such that the movement of the connecting element relative to the first latching part in the direction opposite to the adjustment direction is locked due to the form - fitting engagement.

[0011] To close the latching device, the latching parts of the latching device approach each other, for example, along a closing direction. Due to the magnetic interaction of magnetic means on the side of the first latching part and on the side of the connecting element of the second latching part, when the latching parts approach each other, the connecting element of the second latching part is transferred from the initial position into the functional position. The connecting element is completely or partially enclosed in the body of the associated second latching part in the initial position, while the connecting element is adjusted relative to the body of the second latching part in the functional position such that the connecting element projects from the body so that it can engage with the engaging means at the first latching part.

[0012] However, here, when the locking device is closed, the adjustment of the connecting element from the initial position to the functional position does not occur linearly, but rather about a rotational axis. The connecting element can pivot relative to the body about the associated rotational axis, such that it can pivot relative to the body of the second locking part in a lever element manner to move from the initial position into the functional position. In the initial position, the connecting element is, for example, completely or partially enclosed within the body of the second locking part. In contrast, in the functional position, the connecting element projects relative to the body of the second locking part such that the connecting element can engage with the engaging means of the first locking part, so that a connection can be established between the locking parts.

[0013] The technical advantage of the adjustment about the rotational axis is achieved in particular by simply realizing an exact, almost backlash-free fixation of the locking parts.

[0014] If the locking parts move closer to each other to close the locking device, the connecting element pivots out of the initial position due to the magnetic attraction between the magnetic means. If the connecting element moves into the functional position, the connecting element can engage with the engaging means such that in the closed position, the locking parts are held against each other.

[0015] In the closed position, the connecting element is locked at the first locking part such that the connecting element cannot be adjusted relative to the body of the first locking part in the opposite direction to the adjustment direction pointing about the rotational axis, along which the connecting element pivots to move into the functional position. Thus, the connecting element is fixed to the first locking part in the closed position with respect to the adjustment direction, such that the connecting element is locked relative to the first locking part in its position with respect to the adjustment direction. Thus, when the locking device is in the closed position, due to the engagement with the engaging means, the connecting element cannot move out of the functional position back into the initial position and, in any case, cannot move out of the functional position back into the initial position without canceling the engagement between the connecting element and the engaging means of the first locking part.

[0016] This applies in particular when the first locking part is held in a position-fixed manner relative to the second locking part in the closed position, for example because the first locking part abuts against the second locking part or the connection is established by means of a plurality (at least two) of spatially distributed connecting elements. In this case, due to the engagement of the connecting element with the engaging means of the first locking part, the connecting element can also no longer move relative to the second locking part.

[0017] Since the connecting element can pivot relative to the body of the second locking part about a pivot axis (preferably perpendicular to the closing direction) in order to be pivotable about the pivot axis for transfer from the initial position into the functional position (or vice versa from the functional position into the initial position), the connecting element performs an adjustment movement for transfer between its different positions, which adjustment movement is directed non-linearly along the closing direction and thus differently from the closing direction. The adjustability of the connecting element along an adjustment direction different from the closing direction can be utilized to lock the connecting element (also) in its position relative to the body of the second locking part when the locking device is in the closed position. Thus, in the closed position, due to the engagement of the connecting element with the engaging means, when the locking parts are held in a position-fixed manner relative to one another in the closed position, the movement of the connecting element relative to the second body of the second locking part, which is opposite to the (pivot-axis-directed) adjustment direction, can also be locked. Due to the locking action, when the locking device is in the closed position and the connecting element is engaged with the engaging means of the first locking part, the connecting element cannot move relative to the body of the second locking part along the adjustment direction. Since the movement along the adjustment direction is locked, the connecting element is fixed relative to the body of the second locking part in its functional position, such that the connecting element cannot be adjusted out of the functional position. Thereby, it can be achieved that in the closed position, the connecting element is engaged with the engaging means of the first locking part and a connection is established between the locking parts via it, but the body of the second locking part does not necessarily abut against the body of the first locking part. By locking the connecting element in the functional position when the locking device is in the closed position, the bodies of the locking parts can maintain a spacing relative to one another, such that a surface-to-surface abutment between the bodies of the locking parts is avoided.

[0018] This enables a safe and reliable connection of the locking parts to be established, in particular even in the case of an irregularly shaped surface of the body of the locking part, for example a padded surface at the body, which connection is independent of the shaping of the surface of the body of the locking part. In this way, usage marks such as scratches or abrasions can also be avoided, for example at a padded surface.

[0019] In one design, the first locking part and the second locking part can be moved closer to one another along the closing direction in order to close the locking device, wherein the pivot axis is directed at least approximately perpendicular to the closing direction. The locking parts can, for example, only be attached to one another along the closing direction (at least in the last part of the closing stroke). However, in another design, the locking parts can also be attached to one another along the closing direction and also along a further direction, for example transversely to the closing direction, in order to close the locking device, such that the closability of the locking parts relative to one another is not restricted to the closing direction.

[0020] In one design, the connecting element can pivot relative to the second body part, for example, at an angle between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°, such as at an angle of 45° or 90°, in order to move from the initial position to the functional position.

[0021] The second locking part can be arranged, for example, at a (quasi)-fixed component, such as in a vehicle, for example, at a vehicle seat. In the initial position, the connecting element is, for example, completely or partially received in the body part of the second locking part, such that in the initial position corresponding to the non-use position, the connecting element does not project outwards, thus being unobstructive and furthermore not impairing the aesthetic external impression of the associated component. In contrast, the first locking part can be arranged at a component, which is, for example, fixed in a vehicle, such as fixed on an electrical or electronic component, such as a mobile phone or a navigation device, or fixed on a holding device, such as a storage compartment, a clothes hanger, a table, etc. When the locking parts approach each other, the connecting element moves from the initial position to the functional position, such that the locking parts can be fastened to each other, so that the first locking part holds its position at the second locking part in the closed position of the locking device.

[0022] In one design, the connecting element has a head which is form-fittingly held at the engaging device in the closed position. In the closed position of the locking device, the connecting element projects with its head relative to the body part of the second locking part and engages in the engaging device of the first locking part, such that the locking parts are form-fittingly fixed relative to each other.

[0023] The head of the connecting element can, for example, have an engaging projection which forms an undercut and which engages with the engaging device in the closed position, such that the connecting element acts form-fittingly on the engaging device, in particular with respect to the closing direction.

[0024] In one design, the second body part of the second locking part forms a surface facing the first locking part in the closed position, wherein the head is substantially flush with the surface in the initial position and is preferably spaced apart from the surface in the functional position when viewed along the closing direction. In the initial position, the connecting element is received in the body part of the second locking part, such that the head does not project outwards relative to the surface of the second body part or projects outwards only insignificantly relative to the surface of the second body part, but is substantially flush with the surface. The surface is not necessarily flat here, but can, for example, be curved, in which case the head of the connecting element can have a shape which follows the shape of the surface and is thus flush with the surface. Thus, in the initial position, the second locking part has a self-closing shape at its outward-facing surface, while the connecting element does not project out of the body part of the second locking part in an interfering manner.

[0025] Currently, being substantially flush should be understood such that no sharp-edged area of the connecting element protrudes from the surface and there is no danger of injury to the user, for example, in the case of a collision in a vehicle or when contacting, for example, when a passenger boards the vehicle.

[0026] For example, by a substantially flush arrangement, a visual unity can be established between the surface of the second body part and the visible face of the connecting element, even if the surface and the visible face are not precisely in one plane or are not coplanar or face-identical and / or are separated by a shadow seam, chamfer or radius.

[0027] When the locking part approaches to close the locking device, the connecting element is transferred from the initial position into the functional position and protrudes relative to the surface in the functional position. By being transferred into the functional position, the connecting element can engage with the engaging means of the first locking part in order to connect the locking parts to each other in the closed position.

[0028] In one design, the surface of the second body part does not abut against the first body part in the closed position. By the way that the connecting element is locked in its position when the locking device is in the closed position, the body parts of the locking parts can maintain a spacing relative to each other in the closed position, whereby it can be achieved that, in particular, the surface of the second locking part does not abut against the body part of the first locking part. Therefore, the connection of the locking parts is established independently of the characteristics of the body parts of the locking parts, in particular the surface design of the body parts of the locking parts, for example a cushion at one of the body parts of the locking parts.

[0029] In one design, the connecting element has a closing part arranged at the second body part, and the closing part abuts against the second body part in the functional position. The closing part can, in particular by abutting, limit the pivoting stroke of the connecting element relative to the second body part towards the functional position such that the connecting element cannot pivot relative to the second body part beyond the functional position. Furthermore, when the connecting element is in the functional position, the closing part can, for example, close an opening in the surface of the second body part that is released by the head of the connecting element.

[0030] The engaging means of the first locking part can be designed in different ways.

[0031] For example, the engaging means can be designed to establish a latching connection with the connecting element in the closed position. For this purpose, the engaging means can, for example, have a spring locking element, as described, for example, in DE 10 2010044 198A1. Thus, when the locking device is closed, the connecting element engages latchingly with the engaging means and is preferably held form-fittingly at the engaging means in the closed position.

[0032] Such a spring locking element or the arrangement of spring locking elements can be designed, for example, as described in the different design variants in EP 2 389 084 B1, EP 2 040 572 B1 or EP 2 254 435 B1.

[0033] In one design variant, the engaging device has an insertion opening into which the connecting element can be inserted in a functional position to close the locking device.

[0034] It can be provided here that the first magnetic device is arranged at a first body part of the first locking part in the region of the insertion opening and is configured to cooperate with a second magnetic device at the connecting element of the second locking part when the first locking part and the second locking part approach each other to close the locking device, such that the connecting element is pulled into the insertion opening due to magnetic attraction. For example, the first magnetic device can be arranged at the bottom of the insertion opening, such that by the magnetic interaction with the second magnetic device at the connecting element of the second locking part, the connecting element moves into the insertion opening and thus the connecting element is magnetically pulled into the insertion opening.

[0035] For example, a receiving opening can be connected to the insertion opening, which receiving opening extends from the insertion opening along a pushing-in direction (preferably different from the closing direction, for example, transversely or inclined to the closing direction). And after being inserted into the insertion opening, the connecting element can be pushed into the receiving opening in the pushing-in direction in order to transfer the locking device into the closed position. Thus, for example, the locking device is closed such that the connecting element is first inserted into the insertion opening along the closing direction and then is pushed transversely to the closing direction into the receiving opening connected to the insertion opening. In the closed position, the connecting element engages, for example, form-fittingly with the receiving opening such that the locking parts are held on one another.

[0036] For example, the pushing-in direction can point along a rotational axis about which the connecting element can pivot relative to the body part of the second locking part.

[0037] The pushing-in direction can be linearly directed or can also point along a curved, arcuate movement path. In particular, the pushing-in direction can point around the closing direction such that the locking parts can be connected to one another by a rotational movement around the closing direction. For example, this can be advantageous when there are a plurality of, for example, three or more connecting elements.

[0038] For example, the receiving opening has at least one edge section. In the closed position, the connecting element engages behind at least one edge section such that a form-fitting connection is achieved between the connecting element and the engaging device and the locking parts are form-fittingly fixed relative to one another.

[0039] In the present context, a form-fitting joint or a form-fitting connection shall be understood to mean that the locking components are interlocked with one another due to the shaping of the engaging means on the one hand and the connecting element on the other hand, such that they cannot be separated from one another, at least not without undoing the form fit. Here, the form-fitting connection can be clearance-free. The surfaces of the engaging projections engaging with one another can also be shaped inclined or curved, for example spherically.

[0040] For example, the receiving opening has a slit opening through which the connecting element passes in the closed position. The slit opening can be defined, for example, between edge segments of the receiving opening, which edge segments extend, for example, approximately parallel to one another along the insertion direction or at an oblique angle to the insertion direction, such that a tapering, narrowing slit opening in the insertion direction results. In the closed position, the connecting element engages, with its head, for example an engaging projection formed on the head, behind the edge segments of the slit opening, such that a form-fitting joint exists between the connecting element and the engaging means via it.

[0041] In one embodiment, the receiving opening has an engaging groove extending along the insertion direction, into which the connecting element engages in the closed position.

[0042] The engaging groove can preferably be recessed with respect to a plane perpendicular to the adjustment direction. For example, the connecting element has an engaging tab extending along the insertion direction, which engaging tab can be pushed into the engaging groove along the insertion direction and engages in the engaging groove in the closed position. Here, the engagement preferably causes the connecting elements to be fixed relative to one another also in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction and the adjustment direction due to the engagement of the engaging tab in the engaging groove.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first locking component has a locking device configured to lock the connecting element against movement out of the closed position in a direction opposite to the insertion direction. The connecting element can be pushed into the receiving opening in the insertion direction, passing the locking device during the pushing movement. However, if the locking device is in the closed position, the connecting element is locked or at least impeded from moving out of the receiving opening in a direction opposite to the insertion direction by the locking device.

[0044] For example, the locking device can have a locking element adjustable relative to the first body, past which the connecting element can move in the insertion direction to transfer to the closed position, but which locking element locks the movement of the connecting element out of the closed position in a direction opposite to the insertion direction. During movement in the insertion direction, the connecting element, for example, presses the locking element to one side such that it can pass the locking element. If the connecting element has passed the locking element, the locking element snaps back into the locking position such that the backward movement of the connecting element out of the receiving opening is locked or impeded.

[0045] Advantageously, the locking element can move elastically relative to the body. In particular, the locking element can be spring-preloaded relative to the body via a spring element. In another design, the locking element can also be magnetically preloaded relative to the body and can be elastically adjusted such that the locking element returns to the basic position due to the preloading after being deflected from the basic position.

[0046] The locking element can, for example, project into the receiving opening such that the connecting element abuts against the locking element when moving back in the direction opposite to the insertion direction, thereby locking the connecting element in the receiving opening.

[0047] To make opening difficult, the locking element can be inclined, for example, in the closed position along the insertion direction towards the stop face of the connecting element such that the connecting element can strike against the stop face in the direction opposite to the insertion direction, so that the locking device can be opened when overcoming a limiting force (determined by the shape of the stop face and the connecting element and in addition by the spring preloading).

[0048] Correspondingly, to lock the opening, the stop face of the locking element in the closed position along the insertion direction towards the connecting element can be arranged, for example, perpendicular to the insertion direction such that the connecting element cannot strike against the stop face and the locking device can only be opened by operating the locking device to unlock.

[0049] For example, due to the engagement of the connecting element in the engagement device, the connecting element can be fixed relative to the first locking part in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation in the closed position. Due to the engagement of the connecting element with the engagement device, the connecting element is positively fixed relative to the first locking part when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation and is thus jammed, wherein the connecting element is preferably held torsion-resistant and position-fixed at the first locking part.

[0050] In one design, the second locking part has an elastically deformable preloading element which is configured to preload the connecting element relative to the second body at least in the functional position. The preloading element can be formed, for example, by an elastic spring or by a rubber element, such as an O-ring, which extends around the adjusting body of the connecting element. When transferred to the functional position, the preloading element is elastically tensioned such that, in the functional position, an elastic preloading is applied to the connecting element relative to the body of the second locking part.

[0051] In one design, the connecting element is held in the initial position relative to the second body in the open position of the locking device. For example, the connecting element can be preloaded towards the initial position spring-mechanically or magnetically relative to the body of the second locking part for this purpose.

[0052] In a design, the second locking component has a third magnetic device disposed at the second body portion of the second locking component, and the third magnetic device acts magnetically in cooperation with the second magnetic device to hold the connecting element in the initial position. The third magnetic device acts magnetically attractively in cooperation with the second magnetic device such that when the locking device is opened, the connecting element is held at the body portion of the second locking component in the initial position. If the locking components approach each other, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic device of the first locking component and the second magnetic device at the connecting element of the second locking component overlaps with the magnetic attraction between the second magnetic device and the third magnetic device, and once the locking components have approached each other to a sufficient extent, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic device and the second magnetic device exceeds the magnetic attraction between the second magnetic device and the third magnetic device, such that the connecting element is transferred from the initial position to the functional position due to the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic device and the second magnetic device.

[0053] In a design, the first locking component and the second locking component are fixedly positioned relative to each other in the closed position, particularly when observed along the closing direction and along a plane perpendicular to the closing direction. Thus, in the closed position, the first locking component and the second locking component cannot move relative to each other, particularly cannot rotate relative to each other.

[0054] Position fixation that is particularly fixed in a rotationally manner about the closing direction in a plane perpendicular to the closing direction, for example, can be achieved by appropriate engagement structures at the first locking component and the second locking component.

[0055] In a design, the second locking component has at least two connecting elements, each of the at least two connecting elements being pivotable relative to the second body portion between an initial position and a functional position and protruding relative to the second body portion in the functional position such that the connecting elements can engage with the engagement device of the first locking component. In the closed position, the connecting elements engage with the engagement device respectively to hold the first locking component and the second locking component on each other. Each of the connecting elements has an associated second magnetic device to interact magnetically with the first magnetic device of the first locking component.

[0056] For example, the engagement device can have two spring locking elements at the first locking component, each of the two spring locking elements being associated with one of the connecting elements. In another design, two insertion openings and two receiving openings connected thereto can be formed at the engagement device, with one insertion opening and one receiving opening being associated with one of the connecting elements respectively.

[0057] Since the connection between the locking components in the closed position is established via two (or more) connecting elements and their engagement with the engagement means of the first locking component, the locking components are fixed in position relative to one another in the closed position, in particular torsion-resistant, so as to establish a position-fixed connection between the components associated with the locking components.

[0058] In one design, the connecting elements are arranged side by side, for example, in a transverse direction perpendicular to the closing direction and the axis of rotation. In the closed position, the connecting elements approach the body of the first locking component, for example, from mutually facing sides.

[0059] In one design, the connecting element can pivot relative to the second body about a common axis of rotation.

[0060] In another design, the connecting element can pivot relative to the second body about two mutually parallel and spaced-apart axes of rotation. Thus, in this design, each connecting element is associated with a separate axis of rotation, and the axes of rotation extend parallel to each other.

[0061] In one design, in order to transfer from the initial position to the functional position, the connecting elements can pivot relative to the second body at an angle between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°, respectively. In the initial position, the head of each locking element, for example, is in the associated opening in the surface of the second locking component, so that it cannot or can hardly protrude from the body of the second locking component. By pivoting about the respectively associated axis of rotation, the connecting element can be adjusted out of the body and protrude outward relative to the body in the functional position, and the pivoting movement is achieved at such an angle that the connecting element can engage with the engagement means at the first body of the first locking component, respectively.

[0062] In one design, in order to transfer from the initial position to the functional position, the connecting elements can pivot relative to the second body in the opposite direction about a common axis of rotation or about each one associated and separate axis of rotation. Thus, in order to transfer to the functional position, the connecting elements pivot relative to the body of the second locking component in opposite directions.

[0063] In another design, the connecting elements can also pivot in the same direction as each other.

[0064] If there are more than two connecting elements, these axes of rotation can all be in one plane, but the axes of rotation can be different from each other, for example.

[0065] In a design, the first locking member has a first electrical contact assembly, and the second locking member has a second electrical contact assembly. When the locking device is closed, the contact assemblies, which may each have one or more electrical contacts for example, are in electrical contact with each other, such that an electrical connection is established.

[0066] The first electrical contact assembly may be constituted by a first electrical plug connector part for example, and the second electrical contact assembly may be constituted by a second electrical plug connector part. When the locking device is closed, the plug connector parts engage with each other in a plugging manner. The first electrical plug connector part and the second electrical plug connector part are connected to each other in a plugging manner in the closed position. The insertion direction preferably corresponds to the pushing direction here, and a plug connection can be established along the insertion direction.

[0067] The plug connector parts may be used for example to establish a data connection or to establish a power supply connection between components associated with the locking members. The plug connector parts may be constituted by a USB interface, for example a USB-C interface, or by other interfaces for electrical or electronic devices, for example for telecommunications applications.

[0068] In a design, the second electrical contact assembly, for example the second plug connector part, is arranged at a connecting element of the second locking member. For example, the first plug connector part may be arranged in the region of a receiving opening of an engaging device of the first locking member. If the connecting element engages with the engaging device when the locking device is closed, the plug connector parts are plugged together, such that in addition to the mechanical fastening of the locking members to each other, an electrical connection is also established.

[0069] The locking device is designed magnetically. The first magnetic device and the second magnetic device may be constituted by permanent magnets for example, which are opposed to each other with different poles so as to attract magnetically. In another design, the first magnetic device and the second magnetic device may be constituted on the one hand by permanent magnets and on the other hand by a passive magnetic armature made of a ferromagnetic material for example.

[0070] If the second magnetic device is constituted by a permanent magnet, the third magnetic device may be constituted by a passive magnetic armature for example. In another design, the third magnetic device is constituted by a permanent magnet, which is opposed to the second magnetic device in a magnetically attracting manner.

[0071] One or more of the magnetic devices may also be constituted by an electromagnet for example. Description of the Drawings

[0072] The concept on which the present invention is based will be elaborated in detail below according to the embodiments shown in the drawings. The drawings show:

[0073] Figure 1AExploded view showing one embodiment of the locking device;

[0074] Figure 1B Another exploded view showing the locking device;

[0075] Figure 2A View showing the locking device in the open position;

[0076] Figure 2B Partial cross-sectional view showing the locking device in the open position;

[0077] Figure 2C Showing according to Figure 2A Top view of the setting of;

[0078] Figure 2D Showing along the line G-G according to Figure 2C Cross-sectional view of;

[0079] Figure 2E Side view showing the locking device;

[0080] Figure 3A View showing the locking device when the locking device is closed;

[0081] Figure 3B Partial cross-sectional view showing the locking device when the locking device is closed;

[0082] Figure 3C Showing according to Figure 3A Top view of the setting of;

[0083] Figure 3D Showing along the line G-G according to Figure 3C Cross-sectional view of;

[0084] Figure 3E Side view showing the locking device;

[0085] Figure 4A View showing the locking device when the locking device is further closed;

[0086] Figure 4B Partial cross-sectional view showing the locking device when the locking device is further closed;

[0087] Figure 4C Showing according to Figure 4A Top view of the setting of;

[0088] Figure 4D Showing along the line G-G according to Figure 4C Cross-sectional view of;

[0089] Figure 4E Side view showing the locking device;

[0090] Figure 5A View of the locking device in the closed position of the locking device;

[0091] Figure 5B Partial cross-sectional view of the locking device in the closed position of the locking device;

[0092] Figure 5C Shows a top view of the arrangement according to Figure 5A ;

[0093] Figure 5D Shows a cross-sectional view along line G-G according to Figure 5C ;

[0094] Figure 5E Side view of the locking device;

[0095] Figure 6A Exploded view of an embodiment of the locking device;

[0096] Figure 6B Another exploded view of the locking device;

[0097] Figure 7A View of the locking device in the open position;

[0098] Figure 7B Shows a top view of the arrangement according to Figure 7A ;

[0099] Figure 7C Shows a cross-sectional view along line G-G according to Figure 7B ;

[0100] Figure 7D Shows a cross-sectional view along line H-H according to Figure 7C ;

[0101] Figure 7E Side view of the locking device;

[0102] Figure 8A View of the locking device when the locking device is closed;

[0103] Figure 8B Shows a top view of the arrangement according to Figure 8A ;

[0104] Figure 8C Shows a cross-sectional view along line G-G according to Figure 8B ;

[0105] Figure 8D Shows a cross-sectional view along line H-H according to Figure 8C ;

[0106] Figure 8ESide view showing the locking device;

[0107] Figure 9A View of the locking device when it is further closed;

[0108] Figure 9B Showing according to Figure 9A Top view of the setting;

[0109] Figure 9C Showing a cross-sectional view along line G-G according to Figure 9B ;

[0110] Figure 9D Showing a cross-sectional view along line H-H according to Figure 9C ;

[0111] Figure 9E Side view showing the locking device;

[0112] Figure 10A View of the locking device in its closed position;

[0113] Figure 10B Showing according to Figure 10A Top view of the setting;

[0114] Figure 10C Showing a cross-sectional view along line G-G according to Figure 10B ;

[0115] Figure 10D Showing a cross-sectional view along line H-H according to Figure 10C ;

[0116] Figure 10E Side view of the locking device in its closed position;

[0117] Figure 11A Exploded view showing another embodiment of the locking device;

[0118] Figure 11B Showing another exploded view of the locking device;

[0119] Figure 11C Showing yet another exploded view of the locking device;

[0120] Figure 12A Side view of the locking device in its open position;

[0121] Figure 12B Front view of the locking device in its open position;

[0122] Figure 12C Showing a perspective view according to Figure 12A ;

[0123] Figure 12D Shows another perspective view of the arrangement according to Figure 12A ;

[0124] Figure 13A Shows a side view of the locking device when the locking device is closed;

[0125] Figure 13B Shows a front view of the locking device when the locking device is closed;

[0126] Figure 13C Shows a perspective view of the arrangement according to Figure 13A ;

[0127] Figure 13D Shows another perspective view of the arrangement according to Figure 13A ;

[0128] Figure 13E Shows a side view according to Figure 13A ;

[0129] Figure 13F Shows a cross-sectional view along line I-I according to Figure 13E ;

[0130] Figure 13G Shows another perspective view of the arrangement according to Figure 13A ;

[0131] Figure 14A Shows a side view of the locking device when the locking device is further closed;

[0132] Figure 14B Shows a front view of the locking device when the locking device is further closed;

[0133] Figure 14C Shows a perspective view of the arrangement according to Figure 14A ;

[0134] Figure 14D Shows another perspective view of the arrangement according to Figure 14A ;

[0135] Figure 14E Shows a side view according to Figure 14A ;

[0136] Figure 14F Shows a cross-sectional view along line I-I according to Figure 14E ;

[0137] Figure 14G Shows another perspective view of the arrangement according to Figure 14A ;

[0138] Figure 15ASide view of the locking device in the closed position of the locking device;

[0139] Figure 15B Front view of the locking device in the closed position of the locking device;

[0140] Figure 15C Shows according to Figure 15A Stereoscopic view of the setting of;

[0141] Figure 15D Shows according to Figure 15A Another stereoscopic view of the setting of;

[0142] Figure 15E Shows according to Figure 15A Side view of;

[0143] Figure 15F Shows a cross-sectional view along line I-I according to Figure 15E ; and

[0144] Figure 15G Shows according to Figure 15A Another stereoscopic view of the setting of. Detailed Description

[0145] In Figure 1A , Figures 1B to 5A - Figure 5E In the embodiment shown, the locking device 1 has a first locking member 2 and a second locking member 3 to be connected to the first locking member 2 along the closing direction X. The locking members 2, 3 are separated from each other in the Figures 2A to 2E shown open position. In the Figures 5A to 5E shown closed position, the locking members 2, 3 are fastened to each other correspondingly, such that the components associated with the locking members 2, 3 are connected to each other via the locking device 1.

[0146] The locking member 2 has a body 20, at which engaging means 21 are formed. As can be seen, for example, from the exploded view according to Figure 1B , the engaging means 21 constitute insertion openings 210A, 210B, to which associated receiving openings 211A, 211B are connected along the pushing-in direction Y, respectively.

[0147] Magnetic devices 22A, 22B are provided at the body 20 in the regions of the insertion openings 210A, 210B. The magnetic devices 22A, 22B are configured as permanent magnets in the shown embodiment and are received in associated mounting openings at the body 20, as can be derived from the Figure 1A exploded view according to.

[0148] The locking member 3 has connecting elements 34A, 34B which are pivotally supported about a common axis of rotation D at the support section 303 via a shaft element 348 and via the same at the body 30 of the locking member 3. The axis of rotation D extends perpendicular to the closing direction X and points along the insertion direction Y.

[0149] Each connecting element 34A, 34B has magnetic means 32A, 32B in the form of permanent magnets which act in magnetic attraction cooperation with respectively associated magnetic means 22A, 22B at the body 20 of the locking member 2. As can be seen from Figure 2D the sectional view according to Figure 1A in combination with

[0150] the magnetic means 32A, 32B are arranged in the region of the heads 343 of the respectively associated connecting elements 34A, 34B.

[0151] Each connecting element 34A, 34B has an adjusting body 340 which extends arcuately (at an approximately constant radius) about the axis of rotation D and at which the head 343 is formed. Each head 343 forms an engaging tab 347 for engagement in an associated receiving opening 211A, 211B of the engaging means 21 of the locking member 2 in an engaging groove 213. The adjusting body 340 is supported at the shaft element 348 via a lever arm 345 such that it can pivot about the axis of rotation D relative to the body 30 of the locking member 3. Figure 5A and Figure 5B as can be seen from

[0152] At the adjusting body 340 of the respective connecting element 34A, 34B, a closing member 346 is formed which projects radially relative to the adjusting body 340 and is formed planar such that in the functional position of the respective connecting element 34A, 34B, associated openings 302A, 302B formed in the surface 300 of the body 30 are closed by the closing member 346, as can be seen from

[0153] Here, the closing member 346 serves as a stop in order to limit the pivoting travel of the respective connecting element 34A, 34B relative to the body 30. In the functional position, the closing member 346 abuts against the body 30 such that the respective connecting element 34A, 34B cannot pivot relative to the body 30 beyond the functional position.

[0154] In the open position shown in the latching device 1 Figures 2A to 2E the latching members 2, 3 are separated from each other. The connecting elements 34A, 34B are in the initial position shown in Figures 2A to 2E in which the heads 343 of the connecting elements 34A, 34B are flush with the surface 300 of the body 30 and thus do not protrude outwards. Thus, in the initial position, the connecting elements 34A, 34B are received inside the guide members 31A, 31B and are recessed relative to the body 30 of the latching member 3.

[0155] The magnetic means 32A, 32B of the connecting members 34A, 34B cooperate with the fixed magnetic means 36A, 36B at the body 30 of the latching member 3 in the initial position when the latching device 1 is open and magnetically hold the connecting elements 34A, 34B in the initial position via the latter.

[0156] Since the connecting elements 34A, 34B do not protrude outwards from the body 30 in the initial position, the connecting elements 34A, 34B do not impede and also do not interfere with the aesthetic impression, for example, in the interior of a vehicle (for example when the latching member 3 is fixed to an associated component, such as a vehicle seat, in order to effect the fastening of the component associated with the latching member 2 to the vehicle component associated with the latching member 3 by connection to the latching member 2) when the latching device 1 is open.

[0157] If the latching members 2, 3 approach each other (for example approximately along the closing direction X), as can be seen from Figures 3A to 3E then the latching members 2, 3 are placed relative to each other in a position due to the magnetic attraction between the magnetic means 22A, 22B at the latching member 2 and the magnetic means 32A, 32B at the latching member 3 in which the connecting elements 34A, 34B are in an opposed position relative to the insertion openings 210A, 210B, as can be seen from the sectional view according to Figure 3D

[0158] If the latching members 2, 3 approach each other such that the magnetic attraction between the magnetic means 22A, 22B at the latching member 2 and the magnetic means 32A, 32B at the latching member 3 exceeds the magnetic holding force between the magnetic means 32A, 32B, 36A, 36B at the latching member 3, then the connecting elements 34A, 34B move out of the initial position according to Figures 3A to 3E towards the functional position relative to the body 30 of the latching member 3, as can be seen from Figures 4A to 4EAs can be seen. Thus, the connecting elements 34A, 34B pivot relative to the body 30 of the locking member 3 about a common axis of rotation D, and thereby move through associated openings 302A, 302B in the surface 300 of the body 30 by means of the adjusting body 340, such that the connecting elements 34A, 34B project with their heads 343 relative to the surface 300 of the body 30.

[0159] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting elements 34A, 34B pivot relative to the body 30 of the locking member 3 at an angle between 30° and 60°, for example at an angle of approximately 45°, in order to transfer from the initial position ( Figures 3A to 3E ) to the functional position ( Figures 4A to 4E ). Here, the pivoting takes place about a common axis of rotation D defined by the shaft element 348, wherein the connecting elements 34A, 34B are adjusted relative to the body 30 in opposite adjustment directions V, as can be seen in particular from Figure 4D in combination with Figure 3D As can be seen.

[0160] Due to the magnetic attraction between the magnetic means 22A, 22B of the locking member 2 and the magnetic means 32A, 32B of the connecting elements 34A, 34B, the connecting elements 34A, 34B are pulled into the insertion openings 210A, 210B of the engaging means 21 of the locking member 2, as can be seen from Figures 4A to 4E As can be seen. In the position according to Figures 4A to 4E , the connecting elements 34A, 34B abut with their heads 343 respectively against the bottom of the associated insertion openings 210A, 210B and are in an opposing position to the magnetic means 22A, 22B at the body 20 of the locking member 2, as can be seen from Figure 4D As can be seen.

[0161] To completely close the locking device 1, the locking members 2, 3 are now moved relative to one another along a pushing direction Y which extends transversely to the closing direction X and is directed along the axis of rotation D, such that the connecting elements 34A, 34B slide along the pushing direction Y into the receiving openings 211A, 211B, as can be seen from Figures 5A to 5E As can be seen. Thus, the connecting elements 34A, 34B engage with the receiving openings 211A, 211B such that the connecting elements 34A, 34B engage with their heads 343 in the rear the edge sections 212 of the receiving openings 211A, 211B.

[0162] At the head 343 of each connecting element 34A, 34B, a latching tab 347 is formed, which projects from the head 343 contrary to the respectively associated adjustment direction V (one can say backwards with respect to the transfer direction from the initial position to the functional position). When the connecting elements 34A, 34B are pushed into the receiving openings 211A, 211B, the respective latching tabs 347 are pushed into the respectively associated, complementary latching grooves 213 at the edge section 212, as can be seen in particular from Figure 5B in combination with Figure 5D as can be seen. In the closed position according to Figures 5A to 5E , the head 343 of each connecting element 34A, 34B thus engages with the respectively associated receiving opening 211A, 211B, such that the head 343 is fully latched at the latching device 21 in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation D, and thus is locked relative to the latching device 21 in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation D.

[0163] In the closed position, each connecting element 34A, 34B is in particular locked at the latching device 21 contrary to the respectively associated adjustment direction V directed around the axis of rotation D, such that the respective connecting element 34A, 34B cannot be removed from the body 20 of the locking part 2 contrary to the adjustment direction V, and in any case the connecting elements 34A, 34B are not pushed contrary to the insertion direction Y out of engagement with the latching device 21 to cancel the engagement.

[0164] Since the connecting elements 34A, 34B are jointly fixed to the latching device 21 and thus to the body 20 of the locking part 2, the locking parts 2, 3 are fixed relative to one another in a position-fixed manner in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation D.

[0165] In the closed position, the openings 302A, 302B in the surface 300 of the body 30 of the locking part 3 are closed by the closing parts 346 of the connecting elements 34A, 34B, as can be seen from Figures 5A to 5E as can be seen. Here, the closing parts 346 bear against the body 30 from the inside respectively, such that the connecting elements 34A, 34B cannot be adjusted further in the respectively associated adjustment direction V.

[0166] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting elements 34A, 34B are manually pushed by the user into the receiving openings 211A, 211B, where the pushing can be assisted by gravity, for example.

[0167] When being pushed into the receiving openings 211A, 211B, the magnetic devices 22A, 22B at the locking member 2 and the magnetic devices 32A, 32B at the connecting elements 34A, 34B at the locking member 3 move tangentially away from each other along the pushing direction Y, such that the pushing is carried out against the magnetic attraction forces of the magnetic devices 22A, 22B, 32A, 32B.

[0168] In Figure 1A , Figures 1B to 5A to Figure 5E In the embodiment shown, for example, a locking device may be provided at the body 20 of the locking member 2, the locking device having a locking element which can be adjusted at the body 20 transversely to the pushing direction Y and is spring-preloaded relative to the body 20, for example via a spring element. Such a locking element can, for example, engage with a locking flange in the region of one or both of the receiving openings 211A, 211B, such that the corresponding connecting elements 34A, 34B slide onto the locking flange with their heads 343 when being pushed into the receiving openings 211A, 211B, squeezing the locking flange to one side and thus past the locking element. The locking device 1 is then locked in the closed position in such a way that the corresponding connecting elements 34A, 34B are blocked in the receiving openings 211A, 211B by the locking device and cannot slide out of the associated receiving openings 211A, 211B in the opposite direction to the pushing direction Y. If the locking device 1 is to be opened again, the user can, for example, manually act on the locking device and adjust it such that the connecting elements 34A, 34B can be pushed out of the receiving openings 211A, 211B along the pushing direction Y so that the locking device 1 can be opened.

[0169] In the closed position according to Figures 5A to 5E , the connecting elements 34A, 34B are fixed in their positions relative to the body 30 of the locking member 3, since the connecting elements 34A, 34B engage together in the engaging device 21 and are fixed relative to the engaging device 21. The connecting elements 34A, 34B are thereby and by the closing part 346 which abuts against the body 30 completely fixed in their positions relative to the body 30. This results in the connection between the locking members 2, 3 being independent of whether the bodies 20, 30 of the locking members 2, 3 are in contact in the closed position. More precisely, the connection is established only via the connecting elements 34A, 34B and their engagement in the engaging device 21, where the surface 300 of the body 30 of the locking member 3 can be spaced apart from the body 20 of the locking member 2, as can be seen, for example, in Figures 5A to 5E .

[0170] Since the bodies 20, 30 of the locking members 2, 3 do not abut against each other in the closed position, the bodies 20, 30 of the locking members 2, 3 can be shaped arbitrarily at their sides facing each other. In particular, the surface 300 of the body 30 of the locking member 3 can be curved differently from a flat shape or shaped in a wavy manner. Since the connection of the locking members 2, 3 in the closed position is independent of the abutment of the bodies 20, 30 against each other, the shaping of the bodies 20, 30 at their sides facing each other or, for example, the padding at the surface 300 does not prevent the connection of the locking members 2, 3.

[0171] This also particularly enables the integration of one or both of the locking members 2, 3 into the respectively associated components, for example into vehicle components, such as vehicle seats.

[0172] In Figure 6A , Figures 6B to 10A - Figure 10E In another embodiment shown in

[0173] , the connecting elements 34A, 34B of the locking member 3 are pivotally supported at the respectively associated shaft elements 348A, 348B about separate axes of rotation D and are pivotally supported thereat via the respectively associated support sections 303 of the body 30 of the locking member 3. Figures 7A to 7E ) and are pivoted from the initial position ( Figures 9A to 9E ) into the functional position (

[0174] Here, the connecting elements 34A, 34B are pivoted in opposite directions relative to each other in order to pivot the connecting elements 34A, 34B from the initial position ( Figure 1A , Figures 1B to 5A - Figure 5E In the embodiment according to Figure 6A , Figures 6B to 10A - Figure 10E , the connecting elements 34A, 34B can be pivoted relative to the body 30 of the locking member 3 at an angle between 30° and 60°, for example at an angle of approximately 45°, in order to pivot the connecting elements 34A, 34B between the initial position and the functional position, while in the embodiment according to

[0175] In the closed position shown in Figures 10A to 10E , the heads 343 of the connecting elements 34A, 34B thus point towards each other, with the body 20 of the locking member 2 being in the intermediate position between the heads 343 of the connecting elements 34A, 34B.

[0176] Furthermore, the embodiment according to Figure 6A , Figures 6B to 10A - Figure 10E differs from the embodiment according to Figure 1A ,Figures 1B to 5A - Figure 5E has the same functions as the embodiments, so the description in the above text should also be referred to.

[0177] Figures 11A - 11C to Figures 15A - 15G shows another embodiment of the locking device 1, which is as functionally identical as possible to the locking device 1 of the embodiment according to Figure 1A , Figures 1B to 5A - Figure 5E of the embodiment.

[0178] Therefore, in the embodiment according to Figures 11A - 11C to Figures 15A - 15G , engaging devices 21 forming insertion openings 210A, 210B are formed at the body portion 20 of the first locking member 2, and the associated receiving openings 211A, 211B are respectively connected to the insertion openings along the pushing direction Y. Magnetic devices 22A, 22B are arranged in the regions of the insertion openings 210A, 210B at the body portion 20, and are configured as permanent magnets in the illustrated embodiment and are received in the associated mounting openings at the body portion 20.

[0179] The second locking member 3 has connecting elements 34A, 34B which are pivotally supported via a shaft element 348 about a common axis of rotation D at a support section 303 and are supported via the same at the body portion 30 of the locking member 3. The axis of rotation D extends perpendicular to the closing direction X and points along the pushing direction Y. Each connecting element 34A, 34B has magnetic devices 32A, 32B in the form of permanent magnets, which act in magnetic attraction in common with the respectively associated magnetic devices 22A, 22B at the body portion 20 of the locking member 2.

[0180] Different from the embodiment according to Figure 1A , Figures 1B to 5A - Figure 5D , in the embodiment according to Figures 11A - 11C to Figures 15A - 15G , the support section 303 is formed at a support element 304 which is connected to the body portion 30 and is thus fixedly fixed relative to the position of the body portion. At the support element 304, magnetic devices 36A, 36B are arranged at a receiving section 305, and the magnetic devices are constituted, for example, by ferromagnetic armatures passively magnetically.

[0181] In the case where the locking members 2, 3 are separated (in Figures 12A - 12DAs shown (in [reference], the locking members 2 and 3 are present separately from each other. In the open position of the locking device 1, the connecting elements 34A, 34B are respectively in the initial positions at the body portion 30, in which the connecting elements 34A, 34B are inserted with the heads 343 into the openings 302A, 302B of the body portion 30 of the locking member 3, such that the heads 343 are at least approximately flush with the surface 300 of the body portion 30, as can be seen for example from Figure 12D as shown therein.

[0182] The connecting elements 34A, 34B are held in the initial positions in such a way that the magnetic means 32A, 32B of the connecting elements 34A, 34B and the magnetic means 36A, 36B at the receiving section 305 of the support element 304 act together in a magnetically attractive manner.

[0183] To close the locking device 1, the locking members 2, 3 are (approximately) attached to each other along the closing direction X (as shown in Figures 13A - 13G ), such that the connecting elements 34A, 34B with the heads 343 approach the insertion openings 210A, 210B at the body portion 20 of the locking member 2. If the magnetic attraction between the magnetic means 32A, 32B of the connecting elements 34A, 34B in the locking member 3 and the magnetic means 22A, 22B in the region of the insertion openings 210A, 210B at the body portion 20 of the locking member 2 exceeds the holding force exerted on the connecting elements 34A, 34B by the magnetic interaction between the magnetic means 32A, 32B and the magnetic means 36A, 36B, the connecting elements 34A, 34B pivot open about the pivot axis D, as can be seen from Figures 14A - 14G as shown therein.

[0184] To completely close the locking device 1, the locking members 2, 3 now move relative to each other along a pushing direction Y that extends transversely to the closing direction X and points along the rotation axis D, such that the connecting elements 34A, 34B slide with the heads 343 into the receiving openings 211A, 211B along the pushing direction Y, as can be seen from Figures 15A - 15G as shown therein. Thus, the connecting elements 34A, 34B engage with the receiving openings 211A, 211B such that the connecting elements 34A, 34B engage the edge sections 212 of the receiving openings 211A, 211B with their heads 343 at the rear, and the engaging tabs 347 at the heads 343 engage into the engaging grooves 213 in the region of the receiving openings 211A, 211B.

[0185] In a modification of the embodiment according to Figure 1A , Figures 1B to 5A - Figure 5E In a modification of the embodiment according to Figures 11A - 11C to Figures 15A - 15GIn an embodiment, additional magnetic devices 22C, 22D are provided in the regions of the receiving openings 211A, 211B, and the additional magnetic devices cooperate magnetically attractively with the magnetic devices 32A, 32B at the connecting elements 34A, 34B when the heads 343 of the connecting elements 34A, 34B are pushed in, thereby magnetically assisting the pushing of the connecting elements 34A, 34B into the receiving openings 211A, 211B.

[0186] Additionally, a locking device 23 is provided in the region of the receiving opening 211A at the body 20 of the locking member 2. The locking device is formed by a locking element 230 which is pivotably supported about a shaft element 231 at a support device 214 at the body 20.

[0187] The locking element 230 has a tensioning element 233 in the form of an elastically deformable section. Via the tensioning element, the locking element 230 is elastically pre-tensioned relative to the body 20 towards the locking position. In the locking position, the locking element 230 engages with a locking head 232 into the region of the receiving opening 211A in such a way that the locking head 232 is in the region of an engagement groove 213 at the edge section 212 of the receiving opening 211A, as can be seen for example from Figure 13E in combination with Figure 13F and Figure 13G as shown.

[0188] When the connecting elements 34A, 34B are pushed into the receiving openings 211A, 211B, the head 343 of the connecting element 34A slides onto the locking head 232 of the locking element 230 and deflects the locking element 230 such that the head 343 of the connecting element 34A passes over the locking head 232 and can slide into the engagement groove 213 in the receiving opening 211A with an engagement tab 347. Thus, the connecting elements 34A, 34B reach the closed position according to Figures 15A - 15G shown.

[0189] The deflection of the locking element 230 when the connecting element 34A slides into the associated receiving opening 211A takes place against the elastic pre-tension of the tensioning element 233. After the head 343 of the connecting element 34A has passed over the locking head 232, the locking element 230 returns to the locking position due to the spring elastic pre-tension, in which the locking head 232 blocks the outlet of the engagement groove 213 and thus locks the connecting element 34A against sliding out of the receiving opening 211A.

[0190] A manipulation section 234 in the form of a lever section is formed at the locking element 230, on which a user can act, for example with a finger, in order to move the locking element 230 out of the locking position and thus open the locking device 1 from the closed position shown in Figures 15A - 15G shown.

[0191] In a design, the locking head 232 is inclined, for example, on the side facing the head 343 of the connecting element 34A, such that when the force opposite to the pushing direction Y at the locking member 3 is exceeded, the head 343 of the connecting element 34A can deflect the locking element 230, so that under the action of a force greater than the limit force and opposite to the pushing direction Y between the locking members 2 and 3, the locking device 1 can be automatically opened.

[0192] In addition, the embodiments according to Figures 11A - 11C to Figures 15A - 15G have the same function as the embodiments according to Figure 1A , Figures 1B to 5A - Figure 5E so that the descriptions in the above text should be fully referred to.

[0193] The concept on which the present invention is based is not limited to the embodiments described above, but can also be implemented in other ways.

[0194] The locking device of the described type can be used, for example, in a vehicle, for example, to fasten an article, such as an electrical device or an electronic device, to a vehicle seat or to another vehicle component.

[0195] However, this is not restrictive. The locking device of the described type can be used to connect completely arbitrary components to each other.

[0196] List of reference numerals

[0197] 1 Locking device

[0198] 2 Locking member

[0199] 20 Body

[0200] 21 Engaging device

[0201] 210A, 210B Insertion opening

[0202] 211A, 211B Receiving opening

[0203] 212 Edge section

[0204] 213 Engaging groove

[0205] 214 Supporting device

[0206] 22A, 22B Magnetic device

[0207] 22C, 22D Magnetic device

[0208] 23 Locking device

[0209] 230 Locking element

[0210] 231 Shaft element

[0211] 232 Locking head

[0212] 233 Tensioning element

[0213] 234 Manipulation section

[0214] 3 Locking component

[0215] 30 Body part

[0216] 300 Surface

[0217] 301 Retaining part

[0218] 302A, 302B Opening

[0219] 303 Support section

[0220] 304 Support element

[0221] 305 Receiving section

[0222] 32A, 32B Magnetic device

[0223] 34A, 34B Connecting element

[0224] 340 Adjusting body

[0225] 343 Head

[0226] 345 Lever arm

[0227] 346 Closing component

[0228] 347 Engaging tab

[0229] 348 Shaft element

[0230] 36A, 36B Magnetic element

[0231] D Axis of rotation

[0232] V Adjusting movement

[0233] X Closing direction

[0234] Y Pushing direction

Claims

1. A latching device (1), the latching device having: A first latching member (2), the first latching member having a first body portion (20), an engaging device (21) provided at the first body portion (20), and first magnetic devices (22A, 22B), and A second latching member (3), the second latching member having a second body portion (30), connecting elements (34A, 34B) movably provided at the second body portion (30), and second magnetic devices (32A, 32B) provided at the second connecting elements (34A, 34B), Wherein, in order to close the latching device (1), the first latching member (2) and the second latching member (3) can be brought closer to each other. In the closed position, the connecting elements (34A, 34B) engage with the engaging device (21) to hold the first latching member (2) and the second latching member (3) together. And in order to open the latching device (1), the engagement between the connecting elements (34A, 34B) and the engaging device (21) can be cancelled, so that the first latching member (2) and the second latching member (3) can be separated from each other. Wherein the connecting elements (34A, 34B) can be adjusted relative to the second body portion (30) between an initial position and a functional position and project relative to the second body portion (30) in the functional position, so that the connecting elements (34A, 34B) can engage with the engaging device (21) of the first latching member (2). In the initial position, the connecting elements (34A, 34B) are at least partially received in the body portion (30). Wherein the first magnetic devices (22A, 22B) and the second magnetic devices (32A, 32B) are configured to act together magnetically attractively when the first latching member (2) and the second latching member (3) are brought closer to each other, so as to transfer the connecting elements (34A, 34B) from the initial position to the functional position. It is characterized in that The connecting elements (34A, 34B) can pivot relative to the second body portion (20) about a rotation axis (D) so as to adjust the connecting elements (34A, 34B) to the functional position in an adjustment direction (V) pointing around the rotation axis (D). Wherein, in the closed position, the connecting elements (34A, 34B) engage form - fit with the engaging device (21) of the first latching member (2), so that the movement of the connecting elements (34A, 34B) relative to the first latching member (2) in a direction opposite to the adjustment direction (V) is locked due to the form - fit engagement.

2. The latching device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, In order to close the latching device (1), the first latching member (2) and the second latching member (3) can be brought closer to each other along a closing direction (X), wherein the rotation axis (D) points at least approximately perpendicular to the closing direction (X).

3. The latching device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The connecting element (34A, 34B) has a head (343) which is in form - fit engagement with the engaging device (21) in the connected position.

4. The latching device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second body part (30) forms a surface (300) which faces the first locking part (2) in the closed position, wherein the head (343) is flush with the surface (300) in the initial position and spaced apart from the surface (300) in the functional position.

5. The latching device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The surface (300) of the second body part (30) does not abut against the first body part (20) in the closed position.

6. The latching device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The connecting element (34A, 34B) has a closing part (346) arranged at the second body part (30), and the closing part abuts against the second body part (30) in the functional position.

7. The latching device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The engaging device (21) has insertion openings (210A, 210B) into which the connecting element (34A, 34B) can be inserted in the functional position to close the locking device (1).

8. The latching device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first magnetic means (22A, 22B) is arranged at the first body part (20) in the region of the insertion openings (210A, 210B) and is configured to cooperate with the second magnetic means (32A, 32B) when the first locking part (2) and the second locking part (3) approach each other to close the locking device (1), such that the connecting element (34A, 34B) is pulled into the insertion openings (210A, 210B) due to magnetic attraction.

9. The latching device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The engaging device (21) has receiving openings (211A, 211B) which are connected to the insertion openings (210A, 210B) along the pushing - in direction (Y), and after being inserted into the insertion openings (210A, 210B), the connecting element (34A, 34B) can be pushed into the receiving openings in the pushing - in direction (Y) in order to transfer the locking device (1) into the closed position.

10. The latching device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The pushing - in direction (Y) points along the axis of rotation (D).

11. The latching device (1) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The receiving opening (211A, 211B) has at least one edge section (212), and the connecting element (34A, 34B) engages behind the at least one edge section (212) in the closed position.

12. The latching device (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The receiving opening (211A, 211B) has an engaging groove (213) extending along the pushing - in direction (Y), and the connecting element (34A, 34B) engages in the engaging groove in the closed position.

13. The latching device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The connecting element (34A, 34B) has an engaging tab (347) extending along the pushing - in direction (Y), and the engaging tab can be pushed into the engaging groove (213) along the pushing - in direction (Y) and engages in the engaging groove (213) in the closed position.

14. The latching device (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that, The first locking member (2) has a locking device (23) configured to lock the connecting elements (34A, 34B) against movement out of the closed position in a direction opposite to the pushing direction (Y).

15. The latching device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The locking device (23) has a locking element (230) adjustable relative to the first body portion (20). The connecting elements (34A, 34B) can move past the locking element in the pushing direction (Y) to transfer to the closed position, but the locking element locks the connecting elements (34A, 34B) against movement out of the closed position in a direction opposite to the pushing direction (Y).

16. The latching device (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The locking element (230) is elastically adjustable relative to the first body portion (20).

17. The latching device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The connecting elements (34A, 34B) engage in the engaging device (21) in the closed position such that the connecting elements (34A, 34B) are fixed relative to the first locking member (2) along a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D).

18. The latching device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The connecting elements (34A, 34B) are held in the initial position relative to the second body portion (30) in the open position of the locking device (1).

19. The latching device (1) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The second locking member (3) has third magnetic means (36A, 36B) provided at the body portion (30) of the second locking member (3), which cooperate magnetically with the second magnetic means (32A, 32B) to hold the connecting elements (34A, 34B) in the initial position.

20. The latching device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first locking member (2) and the second locking member (3) are fixedly positioned relative to each other in the closed position.

21. The latching device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The second locking member (3) has at least two connecting elements (34A, 34B) that can pivot relative to the second body portion (30) between an initial position and a functional position and project relative to the second body portion (30) in the functional position such that the connecting elements (34A, 34B) can engage with the engaging device (21) of the first locking member (2), where in the closed position, the connecting elements (34A, 34B) engage with the engaging device (21) respectively to hold the first locking member (2) and the second locking member (3) together.

22. The latching device (1) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The connecting elements (34A, 34B) can pivot relative to the second body portion (30) about a common axis of rotation (D).

23. The latching device (1) according to claim 22, characterized in that, The connecting elements (34A, 34B) can pivot relative to the second body portion (30) about two parallel and spaced-apart axes of rotation (D).

24. The latching device (1) according to any one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that, The connecting elements (34A, 34B) can pivot relative to the second body portion (30) at an angle between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°, respectively, to transfer from the initial position to the functional position.

25. The latching device (1) according to any one of claims 21 to 24, characterized in that, The connecting elements (34A, 34B) are pivotable relative to the second body part (30) in different directions in order to be transferred from the initial position into the functional position.

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