Transport container and transport container assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a transport container (1) comprising: a receiving container (2) for receiving articles therein; a handle (25) arranged on the receiving container (2), the handle being pivotable between a retracted storage position and a retracted position; and a locking element (24) arranged on the receiving container for detachably connecting the transport container (1) to the support structure, the locking element being pivotable between a holding position and an unlocking position. The aim of the invention is to provide a transport container which enables a simple coupling of the transport container (1) to a support structure and a simple separation of the transport container from the support structure, in that the handle has at least one operating element (45) for pivoting the locking element (24) into the unlocked position when the handle is pivoted into the turned-out position. The invention also relates to a transport container assembly comprising a transport container (1) and a support structure that can be connected to the transport container (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a transport container according to the preamble of claim 1 and a transport container assembly according to claim 16. Background Technology

[0002] A stackable suitcase and a suitcase assembly having two identical suitcases stacked vertically are known from DE 10 2015 013 053 B4. The stackable suitcase includes a lower, box-shaped component and a lid pivotally connected to the lower component. The lid has hanging tabs in its front and rear regions. Furthermore, the suitcase has a rearwardly projecting hook on its bottom side in its rear region, and a pressure plate with a locking hook pivotally arranged on the front wall. Here, the front wall of the suitcase is configured as the operating side. Specifically, a folding handle pivoting about a horizontal pivot axis is arranged on the front wall of the lower component. The pressure plate is arranged in a recess on the front wall of the suitcase, and specifically in the hand passage area of ​​the folding handle. Here, the pressure plate can be manipulated through the hand passage area of ​​the folding handle, specifically by the user pushing or pulling. When the two suitcases are connected vertically, the hook of the upper suitcase engages with the rear hanging tab on the lid of the lower suitcase. Furthermore, the locking hook of the upper suitcase engages with the front suspension tab on the lid of the lower suitcase. The engagement of the suspension hook and locking hook with the suspension tab securely connects the two suitcases together, and in particular, locks them to prevent separation. By pressing or pulling a pressure plate, the pressure plate can be deflected, causing the locking hook to disengage from the front suspension tab and separating the two suitcases. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a transport container that enables simple connection and separation of the transport container from a support structure. Furthermore, an object is to provide a transport container assembly comprising a transport container and a support structure connectable to the transport container.

[0004] This objective is achieved by the transport container according to claim 1 and the transport container assembly according to claim 16. Advantageous designs and suitable modifications of the invention can be derived from the dependent claims.

[0005] The transport container according to the invention includes a receiving container for holding articles therein and a handle arranged on the receiving container, the handle being swayable between a folded-in or tilted-out storage position and a folded-out or tilted-out tilted-out position. Preferably, the handle is directly mounted on the receiving container. Particularly in the tilted-out position, the handle is used for gripping or carrying the transport container, and in this position, the handle preferably protrudes or extends outward from the receiving container. The tilted-in storage position is particularly for a position in which the handle is swayed to rest against the receiving container, wherein, in particular, the handle portion rests against or is located near the receiving container, and the user grips the handle portion to lift the transport container. Conversely, in the tilted-out or tilted-out position, the handle is swayed away from the receiving container. The transport container also includes a locking element arranged on the receiving container, the locking element being swayable between a holding / locked position and an unlocked position. Preferably, the locking element is directly arranged on the receiving container. In particular, the locking element is a separate component, i.e., separate from the handle. Here, the locking element is specifically used to detachably connect the transport container to the support structure, or to detachably mount the transport container to the support structure. For example, the support structure can be an adapter plate, used for connecting to other containers or for mounting the transport container to a wall. Furthermore, other transport containers may preferably have a support structure on their upper side, particularly on the cover, thereby enabling the interconnection of multiple transport containers. Here, the locking element can be connected to a mating locking element of the support structure in a holding position, and can be separated from the mating locking element by swinging the locking element to the unlocking position. Preferably, the holding position is the basic position of the locking element. In particular, the locking element can be held in the holding position by a spring, or preloaded by a spring in the holding position.

[0006] According to the invention, the handle has at least one operating element, specifically, the operating element for swinging a locking element to an unlocked position when the handle is swung to the flipped-out position. In particular, the operating element swings accordingly when the handle is swung. Here, the operating element is preferably fixedly, specifically rigidly, arranged on the handle. In particular, the operating element can be a molded operating element. Preferably, the handle is constructed as a single piece. When moved to the flipped-out position, the operating element preferably acts directly or indirectly on the locking element, specifically the operating section of the locking element. When the handle swings back to the storage position, the locking element, especially in the holding position, preferably returns to the holding position, pre-loaded by a spring. In this design, on the one hand, the locking element enables a simple connection between the transport container and the support structure, and ensures reliable mounting of the transport container on the support structure. Furthermore, by moving the locking element to the unlocked position due to the swaying of the handle to the flipped-out position, a simple and quick disengagement or separation of the transport container from the support structure is achieved.

[0007] Preferably, the container is box-shaped or shell-shaped. Preferably, the container includes a bottom or bottom section, a front wall, a rear wall, and side walls connecting the front and rear walls, specifically a right side wall and a left side wall. The wall arranged on the bottom is preferably rigidly connected to the bottom. Here, the bottom and walls particularly enclose an upwardly open receiving space. In an advantageous design, a locking element and a handle are arranged on the front wall of the container. Preferably, the locking element is arranged internally, that is, closer to the container, while the handle is arranged externally, particularly in front of the locking element. Preferably, the handle, especially in its placement in the storage position, partially covers the locking element. This arrangement of the locking element and handle on the front wall provides, on the one hand, an advantageous design for swinging the locking element via the handle. Furthermore, by arranging the locking element internally, especially by having the locking element at least partially covered by the handle in the placement position, accidental operation of the locking element is prevented, and thus separation of the transport container from the support structure is prevented. In particular, the front wall of the container can also have a receiving area or receiving section for receiving the locking element and the handle. Specifically, the receiving area can be configured to correspond to the outer contour of the handle and the locking element. In particular, the receiving area can be configured such that, in the stacked storage position, the outer side of the handle is flush with the outer side of the front wall, or that, in the stacked storage position, the handle at least does not protrude beyond the outer side of the front wall. Thus, in addition to aesthetic design, a design scheme that is particularly beneficial to the use of the transport container is provided. By arranging the stacked handle in the receiving area and not protruding beyond the outer side of the front wall, for example, it is possible to prevent the user from bumping into the handle.

[0008] Preferably, the container is constructed as a single piece. In particular, the container can be made of plastic, such as ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), PE (polyethylene), or PP (polypropylene). For example, the container can be manufactured by injection molding. This provides a technically advantageous and stable container design.

[0009] In a suitable design, the container, specifically the bottom of the container, has at least one connecting element for supportingly connecting with a mating connecting element of the supporting structure. In particular, the connecting element is used to engage with a mating connecting element configured to fit its corresponding shape. In the connection position where the transport container is arranged on the supporting structure, the connecting element preferably engages with or is inserted into the mating connecting element. Preferably, the connecting element is a rearward, specifically, rear-wall-facing connecting element. In particular, the connecting element can be configured to engage or connect a tongue, a web, or a hook. Here, in a suitable design, the connecting element can be arranged on the underside of the bottom, or form part of the underside. Particularly preferably, the connecting element is arranged on the rear wall side of the bottom, specifically on the side of the bottom facing the rear wall of the container. Specifically, the bottom may include a downwardly projecting shoulder or base, with at least one connecting element arranged on its rear or rear-wall-facing side. Preferably, the shoulder is a (lower) section of the bottom offset inward relative to the wall of the container. In particular, the connecting elements can be arranged on the lower edge of the rear side of the bottom or on the downwardly projecting shoulder of the bottom. Preferably, the container has two or more connecting elements, especially connecting elements configured to connect or engage webs. One or more engaging webs enable simple insertion and easy connection of the transport container to the correspondingly configured mating connecting elements of the support structure. In particular, the mating connecting elements can be slots or locking grooves arranged on the support structure, into which one or more engaging webs can be inserted in an engaging manner. The support structure may also have multiple mating connecting elements for connection with one or more engaging webs. Through at least one connecting element, the transport container can be locked onto the support structure, especially together with a locking element.

[0010] In an advantageous design, the locking element, particularly in its lower region pointing downwards, has at least one locking hook for detachably engaging with a mating locking element of the support structure. Specifically, the locking hook may be located on or form the lower end of the locking element. Preferably, the locking hook is a forward-extending hook, specifically extending away from the receiving container (specifically its front wall). Here, the locking hook is preferably, particularly when the locking element is in the holding position, located at or near the lower side or bottom of the receiving container. Preferably, the locking element is arranged on the receiving container in a swingable manner such that the locking hook moves towards the receiving container as it swings from the holding position to the unlocked position. In an advantageous design, the locking element has two or more locking hooks. One or more locking hooks enable the transport container to be easily locked to the support structure by engaging with a mating locking element of the correspondingly constructed support structure. In particular, the mating locking element may be a slot / receptacle or locking groove arranged on the support structure. Here, the mating locking element for connection with the locking hook and the mating connecting element for connection with the connecting element can be designed to be of the same type. This design allows the connecting element and the locking element to be connected not only to the mating locking element but also to the mating connecting element in different locations, thereby enabling the connection between the transport container and the support structure.

[0011] In an advantageous design, the locking hook of the container and at least one connecting element point at least substantially in opposite directions. Specifically, this applies when the locking element is arranged in a holding position. Specifically, the connecting element points rearward, while the locking hook points forward. This design allows for the simple mounting of the transport container onto a support structure with corresponding mating connecting and locking elements. Here, the locking element and connecting element of the container form a connecting device by which the transport container can be mounted or secured to the support structure. Preferably, the transport container is first arranged at an angle relative to the support structure, and the connecting element is inserted into the mating connecting element of the support structure. Subsequently, the transport container is swung so that the front wall or front side of the transport container moves downward toward the support structure. This engages the locking hook of the locking element with the mating locking element of the support structure. Preferably, the locking hook first abuts against the mating locking element, specifically its upper side, thereby briefly deflecting the locking element from the holding position toward the unlocking position. Subsequently, as the front side of the transport container continues to move downward toward the support structure, the locking hook can engage with the mating locking element of the support structure by swinging the locking element back into the holding position. The transport container is locked to the support structure by engaging the connecting element and locking hook with the mating connecting element or mating locking element. By swinging the handle to the flip-out position and the locking element to the unlock position, the locking hook disengages from the mating locking element of the support structure, allowing the transport container to be removed from the support structure again.

[0012] In a suitable design, the handle is arranged on the container in a manner that allows it to swing about a handle swing axis, and the locking element is arranged on the container in a manner that allows it to swing about a locking swing axis. The handle swing axis and the locking swing axis preferably extend parallel to each other. Here, the locking swing axis and the handle swing axis are particularly arranged to be offset from each other, wherein preferably, the locking swing axis is offset below the handle swing axis, that is, more towards the bottom or lower side of the container. This arrangement of parallel and, particularly offset, handle swing axes provides an advantageous design for swinging the locking element via an operating element of the handle. In particular, here, the operating element that swings along with the handle when it swings about the handle swing axis to the flipped-out position directly causes the locking element to swing to the unlocked position.

[0013] In an advantageous design, the locking element, specifically in the upper region, that is, particularly in the region pointing towards the upper side of the container or towards the lid, has an operating section that the operating element actuates when the handle is swung to the flipped-out position. Preferably, the locking element has at least one locking hook below the locking swing axis, that is, in the region closer to the bottom of the container, and has the operating section above the locking swing axis. This forms an advantageous lever-type design, wherein the locking hook swings in the lower region of the locking element by the operating element actuating the operating section in the upper region of the locking element.

[0014] In an advantageous design, the handle has at least a substantially U-shaped configuration. Specifically, the handle has a handle portion and two handle sides or handle side components arranged on the handle portion. Here, the handle is pivotally connected to the container, particularly via the handle sides. Here, the pivot axis of the handle extends, in particular, through the upper end regions of the two handle sides. Thus, an advantageous design is provided for gripping and transporting the container by the handle and for pivoting the handle. Preferably, at least one of the handle sides, particularly at the upper end, specifically the end away from the handle portion, has an operating element. Particularly preferably, the operating element is rigidly arranged on the handle side, particularly molded onto the handle side. Preferably, both handle sides have operating elements. Preferably, the handle is made of plastic, such as, for example, ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), PE (polyethylene), or PP (polypropylene). Thus, a technically advantageous and stable design for the handle is provided.

[0015] In a suitable design, at least one operating element is configured as a hook or operating hook. Preferably, the operating hook extends downwards, that is, specifically, in view of the handle arranged in the inserted storage position, it extends towards the container. The operating hook is particularly located on the upper end of the handle side of the substantially U-shaped handle, specifically the end opposite to the handle portion. Preferably, both handle sides have operating elements configured as operating hooks. Designing the operating element as an operating hook provides an advantageous design for swinging the locking element, wherein, for example, the operating hook engages with the locking element, and the operating hook acts on the locking element from the rear. In particular, this achieves a design in which the handle can be swung from the inserted storage position to the flipped-out position first without the operating element needing to obstruct the locking element.

[0016] In another suitable design, the locking element has at least a substantially U-shaped configuration. Specifically, the locking element here has a base section and two side parts or sides arranged on the base section. In a particularly preferred design, when the handle is arranged in the inserted storage position, the sides of the locking element are partially or preferably completely covered by the handle sides. As mentioned above, this prevents accidental operation of the locking element. Preferably, the locking element is constructed as a single piece. In particular, the locking element can be made of plastic, such as ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), PE (polyethylene), or PP (polypropylene). This provides a technologically advantageous and stable locking element design. Preferably, the locking element is pivotally arranged on the container via the base section. Thus, the locking pivot axis extends in or through the area of ​​the base section. Specifically, the base section is hinged to the container, especially via at least one hinge or hinge device arranged in the area of ​​the base section. Preferably, the lower region of the base section away from the sides, specifically the lower end of the base section, has one or more locking hooks for securing the transport container to the support structure. Preferably, one or both sides of the substantially U-shaped locking element, specifically its upper (end) region, have the aforementioned operating section, which interacts with the operating element of the handle. By applying action to the operating section of the locking element by the operating element when the handle swings to the flip-out position, the locking element can be swung about the locking swing axis from the holding position to the unlocked position.

[0017] In a particularly preferred design, the locking element has at least one operating opening or engagement notch into which the operating element engages when the handle is swung to the unfolded position. Here, the operating opening may be partially, particularly rearward, i.e., pointing towards the container. In the U-shaped design of the locking element, specifically, one or both sides of the locking element may have operating openings in their upper (end) region, specifically on their upper side. In particular, when the handle is swung to the unfolded position, the operating element, configured as an operating hook, can be inserted into the operating opening and pressed against the locking element from behind.

[0018] In a suitable design, the handle can swing from a transport position, which has swung 90° relative to the inserted storage position, to an exposed position. Therefore, in the exposed position, the handle swings more than 90° relative to the inserted storage position, preferably about 100° to 120°, and particularly preferably about 105°. Preferably, the transport position is the position of the handle when the user is carrying the transport container. Preferably, the locking element swings to the unlocked position only when the handle swings from the transport position to the exposed position. In particular, the operating element of the handle does not yet cooperate with the operating section of the locking element when the handle swings to the transport position, but only after the handle has swung to the exposed position. Therefore, in the transport position, the locking element has not yet deflected to the unlocked position. That is, specifically, the operating element and / or operating section are configured to cooperate only when the handle swings from the transport position to the exposed position; that is, the locking element swings to the unlocked position only when the handle swings from the transport position to the exposed position. Thus, on the one hand, it ensures that the transport container separates from the support structure only when the handle is intentionally swung past the transport position. Furthermore, this design avoids the locking element unnecessarily swinging into the unlocked position, and also avoids unnecessarily keeping the locking element in the deflected unlocked position when the transport container is grasped by the handle located in the transport position.

[0019] In an advantageous design, the transport container has a lid disposed on or connected to the receiving container. Preferably, the transport container has a lid connected to the receiving container in a manner that allows the lid to swing about its pivot axis. In a suitable design, the pivot axis of the lid, the pivot axis of the handle, and the pivot axis of the locking mechanism extend parallel to each other. The lid is particularly mounted on the rear wall of the receiving container. Specifically, the lid is hingedly connected to the rear wall of the receiving container, particularly via a hinge or hinge device disposed on the rear wall of the receiving container. In the closed position, where the lid rests against the wall of the receiving container, the lid, together with the receiving container, surrounds the receiving space of the transport container. In particular, the lid can be locked in the closed position by at least one locking element of the transport container. Preferably, at least one locking element is disposed on the receiving container, particularly on the front wall of the receiving container. The lid, in particular, enables the safe transport of articles placed in the receiving container.

[0020] Preferably, the cover is constructed as a single piece. In particular, the cover can be made of plastic, such as ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), PE (polyethylene), or PP (polypropylene). For example, the cover can be manufactured by injection molding. This provides a technologically advantageous and stable cover design.

[0021] In a suitable design, the transport container is a stackable transport container, that is, a transport container that can be connected to transport containers of the same type. The transport container here, particularly on its upper side, has a correspondingly constructed support structure on which other transport containers of the same type can be mounted. In particular, the transport container may include a cover, preferably pivotally connected to the receiving container, the cover having a support structure for mounting transport containers of the same type. Specifically, the cover has at least one mating locking element. Specifically, the mating locking element is used to detachably connect to the locking element of the transport container of the same type. In a suitable design, the transport container also has at least one mating connecting element. Specifically, the mating connecting element is used to connect to the connecting element of the transport container of the same type. Here, the vertical connection of two transport containers of the same type is achieved, in particular, by engaging the connecting element of the upper transport container to the mating connecting element on the cover of the lower transport container, and engaging the locking element of the upper transport container to the mating locking element on the cover of the lower transport container. The mating connecting element and the mating locking element can be constructed to be of the same type and are used not only for connection with the connecting element but also for connection with the locking element. In particular, the mating connecting element and the mating locking element can be slots or locking grooves. Specifically, the cover can have a rear or rear-side edge segment and a front edge segment, the rear or rear-side edge segment having a first or rear slot, and the front edge segment having a second or front slot. Here, the edge segments extend upwards beyond the inner region of the cover located therebetween. The upper side of the cover can also have a circumferential edge that includes the edge segment. In particular, the slots of the edge segments are slots that open in the direction of the inner region of the cover, that is, in the direction of the corresponding other edge segment. As mentioned above, the connecting element can be a mating web / joining plate, and the locking element has at least one locking hook. For stacking or locking two identical transport containers, the mating web and locking hook of the upper transport container engage with each slot of the lower transport container.

[0022] Furthermore, the subject of this invention is a transport container assembly having at least one transport container as described above and a support structure, the support structure having at least one mating locking element for engagement with a locking element. Preferably, the support structure also has a mating connecting element for engagement with a connecting element of the transport container. Specifically, the support structure may be part of another transport container. In particular, the transport container assembly may include two identical transport containers with lids having the support structure. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The described and other features, advantages, and effects of the transport container and transport container assembly according to the present invention are given by the embodiments described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherein:

[0024] Figure 1 A perspective view of a transport container according to the invention is shown, wherein the cover portion is open;

[0025] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the transport container, showing the closed cover in a partially disassembled state;

[0026] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A top view of a transport container with the lid closed;

[0027] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A bottom view of the transport container in the image;

[0028] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A side view of a transport container with the lid closed;

[0029] Figure 6 It shows crossing Figure 1 The cross-section of the center plane of the transport container, with the lid closed;

[0030] Figure 7a , Figure 7b It shows Figure 1 A detailed view of the locking mechanism of the transport container, which is used to lock the cover;

[0031] Figure 8 It shows according to Figure 2 Detailed view of the front wall of the transport container;

[0032] Figure 9 A perspective view of the locking element is shown;

[0033] Figure 10 A perspective view of the handle is shown;

[0034] Figure 11a , Figure 11b In the storage location where it is placed ( Figure 11a )) and at the transportation location ( Figure 11b The diagram shows a perspective view of the locking element and the handle;

[0035] Figure 12 It shows according to Figure 2 A front view of the transport container, without locking elements and handles shown;

[0036] Figure 13It shows according to Figure 12 The main view, showing the locking element installed.

[0037] Figure 14 It shows according to Figure 13 The front view shows the installed handle in its stored position.

[0038] Figure 15a , Figure 15b It shows the region XX ( Figure 15a YY Figure 15b Passing through Figure 14 A detailed view of the cross-section of the transport container;

[0039] Figure 16 It shows according to Figure 14 The front view shows the handle in a transport position that has been tilted upwards by 90°;

[0040] Figure 17a , Figure 17b It shows the region XX ( Figure 17a YY Figure 17b Passing through Figure 16 A detailed view of the cross-section of the transport container;

[0041] Figure 18 It shows according to Figure 14 The front view, with the handle in a flipped-up position that swings upwards more than 90°;

[0042] Figure 19a , Figure 19b It shows the region XX ( Figure 19a YY Figure 19b Passing through Figure 18 A detailed view of the cross-section of the transport container;

[0043] Figure 20 Two identical types of evidence were shown. Figure 1 The connection of the transport containers;

[0044] Figure 21 It shows crossing in area XX Figure 20 Cross-section of the transport container component in the container;

[0045] Figure 22 This shows the connected state. Figure 20 Transport container components;

[0046] Figure 23 It shows crossing in area XX Figure 22 Cross-section of the transport container component in the container;

[0047] Figure 24a , Figure 24b It shows the region XX ( Figure 24a YY Figure 24b In) Figure 22 A detailed view of the front area of ​​the transport container component;

[0048] Figure 25 It shows Figure 22 The transport container assembly, with the handle of the upper transport container in the open position;

[0049] Figure 26a , Figure 26b It shows the region XX ( Figure 26a YY Figure 26b In) Figure 25 A detailed view of the front area of ​​the transport container component. Detailed Implementation

[0050] exist Figure 1 A partially opened perspective view, while Figure 2 An embodiment of the transport container 1 according to the invention is shown in a closed and partially disassembled perspective view. Furthermore, in Figure 3 The transport container is shown in a top view. Figure 4 The transport container is shown in the view below. Figure 5 The transport container is shown in a side view, and... Figure 6 The transport container is shown in a cross-sectional view.

[0051] The transport container 1 includes a receiving container 2 and a cover 3, the cover being arranged on the receiving container 2 in a manner that allows it to swing about a pivot axis D. The receiving container 2 has a bottom 4, a front wall 5, a rear wall 6, and a right side wall 7 and a left side wall 8 connecting the front wall 5 and the rear wall 6. Currently, the cover 3 is hinged to the receiving container 2. Specifically, the cover 3 is connected to the receiving container 2 via a hinge or hinge device 9 arranged on the rear wall 6 of the receiving container 2. Figure 2 In the closed position shown, the container 2 and the cover 3 surround the transport container's receiving space, which is used to receive the items to be transported in the transport container 1. The transport container 1 can be opened by swinging the cover 3 about its pivot axis D, as shown, for example, in... Figure 1 As exemplarily shown, this allows items to be removed from or placed into the container 2.

[0052] Cover 3 in Figure 2 The locking in the closed position shown is achieved by two locking elements 10 arranged on the front wall 5 of the receiving container 2. Figure 7a In the closed state, Figure 7b The image shows a detailed view of one of the locking elements 10 in the open state. The locking element 10 includes an operating body 11 that can pivot about a locking pivot axis V and a locking clamp 12, the locking clamp being arranged on the operating body 11 in a manner that allows it to pivot about a clamp pivot axis B. To lock the cover 3 in the closed position, the locking clamp 12, specifically its upper clamp section (as shown in...) Figure 7a As shown in the diagram, the locking receiving portion 13 engages with the cover 3. Specifically, the locking receiving portion 13 in the illustrated embodiment is a groove in the protruding or protruding section of the cover 3. To release the cover 3, the operating body 11 (as shown in the diagram) engages with the locking receiving portion 13 of the cover 3. Figure 7b As shown in the diagram, the cover 3 swings upward about the locking pivot axis V. This causes the locking clamp 12 to disengage from the locking receiving portion 13 of the cover 3. In the released position, the cover 3 can swing upward and open the transport container 1.

[0053] Especially Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the bottom 4, or more precisely, the lower section of the receiving container 2 forming the bottom 4, has a base or shoulder 14 that projects downward and is slightly offset inward relative to the walls 5, 6, 7, and 8 of the receiving container 2. On the side pointing towards the rear wall 6, the bottom 4, or more precisely, the shoulder 14, has a plurality of connecting elements 15 in the form of downwardly extending engaging webs. Specifically, the connecting elements 15 are used to engage with correspondingly designed mating connecting elements of the support structure. In particular, as described now and below, the transport container 1 itself may also have a corresponding support structure, thereby allowing two transport containers 1 of the same type to be interconnected.

[0054] Especially Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the cover 3 of the transport container 1 has a central or internal region 16 and an edge 17 protruding upward relative to the internal region 16. Currently, the edge 17 is an edge surrounding the internal region 16. Specifically, the edge 17 includes a rear edge segment 18, a front edge segment 19, a right side edge segment 22, and a left side edge segment 22'. Currently, the rear edge segment 18, that is, the edge segment 18 arranged on one side of the hinge device 9, has a first or rear locking groove 20 designed in the form of a slot. The front edge segment 19, opposite the rear edge segment 18, has a second or front locking groove 21 designed in the form of a slot. The locking grooves 20, 21 are in particular locking grooves defined on the upper side and open in the direction of the internal region 16 or in the direction of another locking groove 21, 20. Therefore, as particularly Figure 6As can be seen, the rear slot 20 is designed to open forward, and the front slot 21 is designed to open rearward. The right side edge segment 22 and the left side edge segment 22' also have connecting structures 23, 23', which are not described in detail here. The connecting structures 23, 23' are used to connect the transport container 1 to a different type of container (not shown here), which has a mating connection structure constructed corresponding to the connecting structures 23, 23'.

[0055] For example, as in Figure 2 As shown in the partially disassembled diagram, the transport container 1 also includes a locking element 24 and a handle 25. The locking element 24 and the handle 25 are arranged or mounted on the front wall 5 of the receiving container 2. Specifically, the front wall 5 has a receiving area 26 in which the locking element 24 and the handle 25 (described in detail below) are arranged. Currently, the receiving area 26 is specifically a recessed area of ​​the receiving container 2, which is designed to receive the locking element 24 and the handle 25. Figure 8 The image shows a detailed view of the receiving area 26 of the container 2. The locking element 24 and the handle 25 are respectively located in... Figure 9 or Figure 10 As shown in the separate figure. Figure 11a )and Figure 11b The image shows a rear view of the combination of locking element 24 and handle 25. Specifically, handle 25 is located in... Figure 11a The object is in the storage position that rests against the locking element 24, and is in the position that rests against the locking element 24. Figure 11b It is in a transport position that has swung upwards by 90°. Figures 12 to 14 The image also shows a front view of container 2, in which... Figure 12 The container 2 is shown, but the locking element 24 and the handle 25 are not shown. Figure 13 A receiving container 2 with an installed locking element 24 is shown. Figure 14 A container 2 with an installed locking element 24 and an installed handle 25 is shown.

[0056] Locking element 24 has a generally U-shaped base shape, with a base segment or base portion 27 and two upwardly extending sides 28 arranged on the base segment or base portion (see...). Figure 9 The base portion 27 forming the lower part of the locking element 24 has a protrusion 29 in the form of a forward-projecting segment. For example, as in... Figure 14 As shown, the handle 25 is positioned above the protrusion 29 in the stowed storage position. Below the protrusion 29, the locking element 24 has two forward-extending locking hooks 30. The locking hooks 30, forming the lower portion of the locking element 24, are used to detachably lock the transport container 1 to the support structure, as referenced below. Figures 20 to 26. A more detailed description is provided. Between the locking hooks 30 spaced apart from each other, the locking element 24 has a guide seat 31 in the form of an opening defined in the circumferential direction. Specifically, the guide seat 31 is defined on its lower side by an edge segment 38. The two sides 28 of the locking element 24 have operating openings 32 on their upper sides, currently substantially U-shaped or V-shaped. Mounting of the locking element 24 on the receiving container 2 is achieved by two fastening elements 33 arranged in a region of the base portion 27. In the present embodiment, the fastening elements 33 are specifically fastening pins or fastening studs arranged in a recessed region of the base portion 27. As in… Figure 8 and Figure 12 As shown, the receiving container 2, specifically the receiving area 26, has two fastening supports 34 configured to receive fastening elements 33. Currently, the fastening supports 34 are fastening clamps formed by two spaced-apart webs.

[0057] Figure 13 A receiving container 2 with an installed locking element 24 is shown. (As also...) Figure 9 and Figure 11a )and Figure 11b As shown in the diagram, the locking element 24 is mounted on the receiving container 2 in a manner that allows it to swing about a locking swing axis S, which extends through the fastening element 33 or the fastening support 34. (As shown in...) Figure 8 and Figure 12 As shown, the receiving area 26 of the container 2 has a forward-extending, web-like guide element 35. (As shown from...) Figure 13 It is understood that when the locking element 24 is arranged on the receiving container 2, the guide element 35 is guided in the guide seat 31 of the locking element 24. A spring element 36 is also arranged in the receiving area 26 of the receiving container 2 (see...). Figure 8 and Figure 12 When the locking element 24 is mounted on the receiving container 2, the spring element 36, arranged above the guide element 35 and below the fastening support 34, abuts against the rear side of the locking element 24 (see also according to Figure 15b (Cross-sectional view of ) Here, the spring element 36 specifically presses against the lower part of the locking element 24, that is, the section of the locking element 24 located below the locking swing axis S. This pushes the lower part of the locking element 24 forward away from the receiving container 2. The forward movement of the lower part of the locking element 24 is limited by the guide element 35 guided in the guide seat 31. Specifically, the guide element 35 has a stop section 37 at its front end in the form of a downwardly extending retaining lug (see...). Figure 8 The stop section 37 abuts against the edge section 38 of the locking element 24, restricting the forward deflection of the lower portion of the locking element 24. Thus, the locking element 24 is held in place by the interaction of the spring element 36 and the guide element 35. Figure 15a)or Figure 15b The holding position shown in the diagram is the base position of the locking element 24.

[0058] exist Figure 10 The handle 25, shown in the perspective illustration, is essentially U-shaped. Specifically, the handle 25 here has a lower handle portion 29 and two upwardly extending handle sides 40 arranged on the lower handle portion. To save material and for manufacturing reasons, the handle 25 currently has a notch or cavity, as also... Figure 10 The diagram illustrates this. The handle side 40 has three connecting webs 41 with hinged receiving portions 42 on its upper end, away from the handle portion 39. These connecting webs are used to mount the handle 25 onto the receiving container 2, as described below. An operating element 45 is arranged on the upper side of the middle connecting web 41. Currently, the operating element 45 is a downwardly extending operating hook. For example, as shown in… Figure 11b As shown in the diagram and described in detail below, the operating element 45 is used to engage with the operating opening 32 of the locking element 24. As described in detail below, the locking element 24 is deflected by the operating element 45 when the handle 25 is swung.

[0059] In order to attach the handle 25 to the receiving container 2, the receiving container 2, specifically the receiving area 26 of the receiving container 2, has two forward-extending retaining webs 43 on the right and left sides respectively, for example, as in Figure 8 and Figure 13 As can be seen. When the handle 25 is arranged on the container 2 (see...). Figure 14 The web 43 is respectively arranged between the two connecting webs 41 on the handle side 40. The handle 25 is secured to the container 2 by hinge pins 44 introduced into the hinge receiving portion 42 of the connecting web 41 and the corresponding receiving portion of the retaining web 43. Here, for example, as in... Figure 10 as well as Figure 14 As shown, the handle 25 is mounted on the container 2 in such a way that it can swing about the handle swing axis T that extends through the hinged receiving portion 42 and the hinge pin 44.

[0060] exist Figures 14 to 1 Figure 9 shows different positions of the handle 25.

[0061] Figure 14 A front view of the transport container 1 is shown, with the handle 25 in its tilted storage position. (As shown in...) Figure 14 As shown, the lower end of the handle 25 is located above the protrusion 29, wherein the protrusion 29 and the handle 25 preferably do not contact each other. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a different context.) Figure 14 As can be seen, the handle 25 covers the locking element 24 above the protrusion 29. In particular, the side 28 of the locking element 24 is covered by the side 40 of the handle. Figure 15a)and Figure 15b ) shows the region XX ( Figure 15a YY Figure 15b Passing through Figure 14 Two cross-sectional views of the components. (As shown in...) Figure 15a As can be seen in the diagram, with the handle 25 in the folded-in state, the operating element 45 is spaced apart from the locking element 24, and in particular, does not exert any action on it. The locking element 24 is held in place by the spring element 36 and the guide element 35. Figure 15a )and Figure 15b In the holding position shown in ).

[0062] Figure 16 A front view of the transport container 1 is shown, wherein the handle 25 is positioned relative to... Figure 14 The container 1 is positioned in a transport position where it is swung upwards by 90° around the handle's swing axis T. Preferably, the user holds the handle portion 39 to swing the handle 25 into the transport position. In the illustrated transport position, the user can easily and conveniently grasp the transport container 1 using the handle portion 39 and move the transport container 1. Figure 17a (XX section) and Figure 17b (YY section) shows Figure 16 The corresponding cross-sectional views of the components shown. For example, especially... Figure 17a As shown in the diagram, when the handle 25 swings, the operating element 45 also swings accordingly. Specifically, as in Figure 17a As shown in the diagram, the operating element 45 moves toward the operating opening 32 on the side 28 of the locking element 24. However, in the transport position of the handle 25 shown, the operating element 45 has not yet acted on the locking element 24, so the locking element 24 has not yet swung out of the holding position.

[0063] Figure 18 A front view of the transport container 1 is shown, wherein the handle 25 is positioned relative to... Figure 16 Continue swinging upwards around the handle's swing axis T in the flipped-out position. Figure 19a (XX section) and Figure 19b (YY section) shows Figure 18 The corresponding cross-sectional view of the component shown. Specifically, the handle 25 in the shown flip-out position relative to... Figure 14 The storage position shown is tilted upwards by more than 90°, and currently tilted by approximately 105°. In the tilted-out position shown, the handle 24 rests against the stop edge in the upper region of the container 2, thus preventing the handle 24 from tilting beyond the tilted-out position. For example, especially... Figure 19aAs shown in the detailed view, the operating element 45 of the handle 24, in the flipped-out position, engages with the locking element 24 through the operating opening 32 and presses against the upper section of the locking element 24, which serves as the operating section, from the rear. This overcomes the action of the spring element 36, causing the locking element 24 to swing about the locking swing axis S. Figure 19a )and Figure 19b In the unlocked position shown in the diagram, specifically, the portion of the locking element 24 positioned above the locking swing axis S moves forward, that is, away from the receiving container 2, while the lower portion of the locking element 24 with the locking hook 30 moves backward, that is, toward the receiving container 2. When the handle 24 swings back, the operating element 43 is removed again from the engaging receiving portion 32 of the locking element 24, and the locking element 24 swings back via the spring element 36. Figures 14 to 1 In the holding position shown in 7.

[0064] exist Figures 20 to 2 Figure 6 illustrates, for example, the connection and separation of two identical transport containers 1 and 1'. It should be noted that not all reference numerals are shown here for clarity only.

[0065] In order to attach the upper transport container 1 to the cover 3' of the lower transport container 1', firstly, as in Figure 20 as well as Figure 21 ( Figure 20 As shown in the cross-section of XX, the connecting element 15 of the upper transport container 1, configured to engage the web, is introduced into the slot 20' at the rear of the lower transport container 1'. Specifically, the upper transport container 1 is tilted relative to the lower transport container 1' so that the connecting element 15 can be inserted into the rear slot 20'. Then, as by... Figure 21 As shown by the arrow, the front portion of the upper transport container 1 moves downwards towards the lower transport container 1'. This causes the upper transport container 1 to enter... Figures 22 to 2 In the connection position shown in Figure 4, the bottom 4 of the upper transport container 1 is attached to the cover 3' of the lower transport container 1', and the handle 25 is in the tilted storage position. The locking element 24, under the action of the spring element 36, swings back to the holding position in this connection position, thereby engaging the locking hook 30 of the locking element 24 of the upper transport container 1 into the slot 21' at the front of the lower transport container 1' (see especially...). Figure 24a )and Figure 24bThe two transport containers 1 and 1' are connected to each other in a locked manner by engaging the connecting element 15 of the upper transport container 1 into the slot 20' at the rear of the lower transport container 1' and engaging the locking hook 30 of the upper transport container 1 into the slot 21' at the front of the lower transport container 1'. Here, the upper transport container 1 cannot be lifted off or separated from the lower transport container 1'.

[0066] Regarding the described connection process, it should be noted that, in addition to... Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, the upper transport container 1 is swung to the lower transport container 1' by the handle 25 arranged in the flip-out position. Swinging is also possible when the handle 25 is in the inset storage position. When the upper transport container 1 moves to the lower transport container 1', the locking hook 30 of the locking element 24 of the upper transport container 1 first abuts against the upper side of the front edge segment 19' of the lower transport container 1'. By continuing to swing the upper transport container 1 to the lower transport container 1', the locking hook 30 is pressed inward against the action of the spring element 36, thus causing the entire locking device 24 to swing towards the unlocked position. Here, the upper part of the locking element 24 abuts against this point, causing the handle 25, which is in the inset storage position, to swing slightly outward, for example, by about 10°. When the upper transport container 1 has swung completely to the lower transport container 1', the locking element 24 is swung back to the holding position via the spring element 36, and the locking hook 30 engages in the slot 21'. In this arrangement, the locking element 24 no longer presses against the handle 25, so that the handle automatically moves back to its original storage position under gravity and appears... Figures 22 to 2 The arrangement shown in 4.

[0067] exist Figure 25 Figure 26 shows the separation of the two transport containers 1 and 1'. Specifically, Figure 26a )and Figure 26b ) shows Figure 25 Detailed diagrams of areas XX and YY are shown. To separate transport containers 1 and 1', the handle 25 of the upper transport container 1 is swung upwards from the storage position (90° position) around the handle swing axis T to the flipped-out position. By pressing the operating element 45 against the rear side of the upper part of the locking element 24, i.e., the operating section, the locking element 24 is swung to the unlocked position, especially... Figure 26a )and Figure 26bAs shown in the diagram. This causes the locking hook 30 of the locking element 24 of the upper transport container 1 to disengage from the slot 21' at the front of the front edge segment 19' of the lower transport container 1', allowing the upper transport container 1 to be removed from the lower transport container 1'. Specifically, here—reversing the connection process of the two transport containers 1, 1' described above—the front portion of the upper transport container 1 is first swung upwards from the lower transport container 1'. Subsequently, the connecting element 15 of the upper transport container 1 can disengage from the slot 20' at the rear of the lower transport container 1'. In particular, the upper transport container 1 can be swung upwards from the lower transport container 1' by inserting the handle 25 into the flipped-out position.

[0068] In the exemplary connection process shown, transport containers 1 and 1' are connected to each other such that they have the same orientation. Specifically, the handles 25 and 25' of the two transport containers 1 and 1' are located on the same side. However, in the transport containers 1 and 1' of the illustrated embodiment, a 180° rotation of the connection between the two transport containers 1 and 1' can also be achieved. Specifically, the connecting element 15 of the upper transport container 1 can be connected to the slot 21' at the front of the lower transport container 1', and the locking element 30 of the upper transport container 1 can be connected to the slot 20' at the rear of the lower transport container 1'.

[0069] List of reference numerals

[0070] 1 transport container

[0071] 2. Containers

[0072] 3 cover pieces

[0073] 4 bottom

[0074] 5 Anterior wall

[0075] 6. Rear wall

[0076] 7 Right side wall

[0077] 8. Left side wall

[0078] 9. Hinged device

[0079] 10 Locking Elements

[0080] 11 operating body

[0081] 12 locking clamps

[0082] 13 Locking Reception Section

[0083] 14. Protruding shoulder

[0084] 15 Connecting elements

[0085] 16 internal areas

[0086] 17 Edge

[0087] 18 Rear edge section

[0088] 19. Front edge section

[0089] 20 rear card slot

[0090] 21 Front slot

[0091] 22 Lateral edge segments

[0092] 23 Connection Structure

[0093] 24 locking elements

[0094] 25 handles

[0095] 26 Acceptance Area

[0096] 27 Basic Part

[0097] 28 sides

[0098] 29 protrusions

[0099] 30 locking hook

[0100] 31 guide seat

[0101] 32 operating openings

[0102] 33 Fastening Components

[0103] 34 Fastening Support

[0104] 35 guiding elements

[0105] 36 Spring Components

[0106] 37 Stop Section

[0107] 38 edge sections

[0108] 39 handle section

[0109] 40 Handle Side

[0110] 41 Connecting web

[0111] 42 Hinged Receiving Part

[0112] 43. Maintain the web

[0113] 44 hinge pins

[0114] 45 Operating elements

[0115] B clamp swing axis

[0116] D-cover swing axis

[0117] T-handle swing axis

[0118] V-locking swing axis

[0119] S-lock swing axis

Claims

1. A transport container (1), the transport container comprising: A container (2) for holding articles therein; a handle (25) arranged on the container (2) which can swing between an inserted storage position and an exposed position; and a locking element (24) arranged on the container (2) for detachably connecting a transport container (1) to a support structure, the locking element being swingable between a holding position and an unlocked position, characterized in that the handle (25) has at least one operating element (45) for swinging the locking element (24) to the unlocked position when the handle (25) swings to the exposed position.

2. The transport container (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The container (2) includes a bottom (4), a front wall (5), a rear wall (6), and side walls (7, 8) connecting the front wall (5) and the rear wall (6), wherein a locking element (24) and a handle (25) are arranged on the front wall (5).

3. The transport container (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bottom (4) has at least one connecting element (15) for connecting to the mating connecting element of the support structure in a supporting manner.

4. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The locking element (24) has at least one locking hook (30) in particular in the lower region for detachably connecting to the mating locking element of the support structure.

5. The transport container (1) according to claims 3 and 4, characterized in that, The connecting element (15) and the locking hook (30) point in opposite directions.

6. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The handle (25) is arranged on the container (2) in such a way that it can swing about the handle swing axis (T), and the locking element (24) is arranged on the container (2) in such a way that it can swing about the locking swing axis (S) parallel to the handle swing axis (T).

7. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The locking element (24) has an operating section, especially in the upper region, which works together with the operating element (45) when the handle (25) swings to the flipped-out position.

8. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It is provided with a substantially U-shaped handle (25) and / or a substantially U-shaped locking element (24).

9. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one operating element (45) is configured as an operating hook.

10. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The locking element (24) has an operating opening (32) in particular in its upper region, and the operating element (45) is configured to engage in the operating opening (32) when the handle (25) is swung to the flipped-out position.

11. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The handle (25) can swing from a transport position that has swung 90° relative to the storage position to the flipped-out position, wherein the operating element (45) is preferably configured to cause the locking element (24) to swing to the unlocked position only when the handle (25) swings from the transport position to the flipped-out position.

12. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that... A cover (3) is connected to the container (2) in a manner that allows it to swing about a pivot axis (D), wherein the cover (3) is preferably hinged to the rear wall (6) of the container (2) and / or can be locked in the closed position by at least one locking element (10).

13. The transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that... A cover (3) connected to a container (2) is configured to mount a transport container (1) of the same type thereon, wherein the cover (3) has, in particular, a mating locking element for connecting to a locking element of the transport container (1) of the same type in a separable manner.

14. The transport container (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The cover (3) has a mating connecting element for connecting with a connecting element (15) of the same type of transport container (1).

15. The transport container (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The cover (3) has a rear edge section (18) and a front edge section (19). The rear edge section has a first slot (20) for connecting with a connecting element (15) of the same type of transport container (1), and the front edge section has a second slot (21) for connecting with a locking element (24) of the same type of transport container (1).

16. A transport container assembly comprising a transport container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and a support structure having a mating locking element for connection with a locking element.

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