Panel support

Abstract

The invention relates to a panel support (2) for a connecting device for connecting a panel (105) to a side wall (101, 102) of a drawer, wherein the panel support (2) comprises the following components: a support element (201) which is at least partially U-shaped and has a mounting strip (202) as a main leg for fixing the support element (201) to the panel (105) and two side plates (203, 204) as lateral legs; and two or more fastening devices (210), each consisting of a fastening device head (212) and a fastening device shaft (211), which are designed for fixing the mounting strip (202) to the panel (105), wherein in the maximum insertion state of the fastening devices (210), the fastening device shaft (211) of each fastening device passes through the corresponding through-hole (209) of the mounting strip (202) and protrudes into the envelope surface of the panel (105); wherein the diameter of at least one or more fastening device heads (212) is greater than the internal distance (X1) between the side plates (203, 204); and wherein the side plates (203, 204) each have a window-like opening (213, 214) in the region of the fastening device head (212) of the fastening device, in which each associated fastening device head (212) engages with an edge region, when the fastening devices (210) are fully inserted into the final installation state. The invention is characterized in that the side plates (203, 204) are designed such that the at least one fastening device (210) is placed or can be placed in a pre-installation position between the side plates (203, 204), in which position the fastening device is at least partially or substantially completely located above and aligned or substantially aligned with the corresponding through-hole (209) of the mounting strip (202), so that it can be moved from the pre-installation position to the final installation position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a panel support as defined in the preamble of claim 1. Background Technology

[0002] According to EP 2 747 599 B1, there is a panel support for drawer panels.

[0003] Based on known related technologies, the purpose of this invention is to simplify the installation of panel supports on drawer panels, especially when the panel supports have a very narrow structure.

[0004] The present invention addresses this problem through the subject matter of claims 1, 18 and 19.

[0005] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides a panel support for a connecting device, the connecting device being used to connect a panel and a drawer side frame, wherein the panel support includes: a. A support element that is at least partially U-shaped, the support element including a mounting strip for securing the support element to the panel and two side plates; b. Two or more fastening devices, each consisting of a fastening device head and a fastening device shaft, designed to secure the mounting strip to the panel. c. In their fully inserted state (final installation position), each of these fastening devices passes through a corresponding through-hole in the mounting strip via its fastening device shaft and extends into the panel, particularly into the envelope of the panel, thereby directly securing the mounting strip to the panel, or, if necessary, indirectly securing the mounting strip to the panel via at least one intermediate fastening element. d. The diameter of the head of at least one or more of the fastening devices is greater than the internal distance between the side plates, and e. In the area where the fastening heads of the corresponding fastening devices in the aforementioned features are fully inserted into the final installation state, each of these side panels includes a window-shaped opening, and the corresponding fastening device head engages with the edge area and snaps into the window-shaped opening. f. and wherein these side plates are configured such that the at least one fastening device according to feature d) can be placed in a pre-installation position between the side plates, wherein the fastening device is at least partially or substantially completely located above the corresponding through hole and aligned or substantially aligned with the corresponding through hole of the mounting strip, thereby enabling it to be moved from the pre-installation position to the final assembly position.

[0007] In this way, the pre-installation position ensures the accurate pre-positioning of the corresponding one or more fasteners between the side panels. This simplifies the overall assembly of the panel support and the panel, thus facilitating the creation of particularly narrow panel supports and consequently, particularly narrow side frames. Furthermore, because the fasteners can be designed to be relatively long, even the installation of relatively heavy panels becomes possible.

[0008] These features should be interpreted broadly. The support element described in feature a) can be designed to be directly or indirectly fixed to the panel. Therefore, it can be placed directly on the panel, or it can be placed on the panel via an intermediate element. The side panel can be formed as multiple parts, i.e., separately arranged from each other. However, the side panel can also be integrally formed from a larger provided plate, which has been bent into, for example, a U-shape, and the support strip has been inserted therein, or the plate is placed on top of the support strip. Overall, the result is still a U-shaped support element.

[0009] One or more additional fastening devices may be provided on the side of the one or more fastening devices to be positioned between the side panels; these additional fastening devices can be directly inserted into the mounting strip without contacting the side panels during installation.

[0010] According to an advantageous embodiment, at least one or more fastening device shafts of the respective fastening device may have a surface structure integrally or in partial sections. This surface structure is designed to achieve a tight fit in the panel or intermediate fastening device.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, at least one or more fastening devices are further configured as screws, wherein the corresponding surface structure is formed as threads. These screws are easy to install and simply ensure a secure fit within the panel or intermediate fastening device. Alternatively, the surface structure may also consist of grooves, teeth, or similar structures.

[0012] According to another preferred variant, one or more intermediate fastening elements are disposed on the mounting strip, which are passed through by corresponding fastening devices in the final assembly position and engage with the envelope surface of the panel in the final assembly state, such that the corresponding fastening devices securely fix the mounting strip to the panel through the corresponding intermediate fastening elements.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the two side panels are aligned substantially parallel to each other and fastened to or integrally connected to the mounting strip. It is also possible to mechanically connect the side panels together first and then insert the mounting strip. It is also conceivable that the side panels are integrally connected, already incorporating a U-shape, and fixed to the mounting strip as a single unit. Various advantageous variations of this approach are possible. According to another advantageous embodiment, which facilitates a narrow design of the panel support, the side panels can also be configured as being composed of individual metal plates. This also facilitates the creation of particularly narrow side frames.

[0014] According to the first embodiment, the mechanism for positioning one or more fastening devices in a pre-installation position can be advantageously configured as at least one pre-installation profile of one or both of the side plates.

[0015] This pre-installation profile allows the corresponding fastening devices to be pre-positioned between the side plates in such a way that the corresponding fastening devices (preferably by means of self-alignment) are held in a pre-installation position between the side plates on the support element and aligned with the corresponding through holes. This pre-installation position ensures a very good fit between the corresponding fastening devices to be held between the side plates, which greatly simplifies assembly.

[0016] According to the second embodiment (which may be an extension of the first embodiment), it is advantageous to configure the pre-installation profile to include at least one groove in one of the two side plates, or one groove in each of the two side plates, wherein the corresponding groove is aligned or substantially aligned with, or corresponds to / concentric with, a corresponding through hole in the mounting strip. In this way, the pre-installation profile ensures that the corresponding fastening devices to be held securely in place between the side plates in their corresponding pre-installation positions and ensures proper alignment with the through holes.

[0017] According to the third embodiment (which can be a further development of the first and second embodiments), it can also be configured such that at least one or both of the pre-installation contours, particularly the one or more grooves, include a step (in particular the form of a corresponding narrowing), and in the pre-installation position, the head of the corresponding fastening device is positioned on the step. This ensures that the corresponding fastening device to be held between the side panels is particularly securely fitted in the pre-installation position. This also ensures that the corresponding fastening device to be installed and held between the side panels is very well fitted in the pre-installation position, which greatly simplifies assembly.

[0018] According to the fourth embodiment (which may also be provided in conjunction with the first, second, and third embodiments), the pre-installation profile includes at least one recess in one or both of the side panels, particularly an edge recess, into which the fastening head of a fastening device engages in the pre-installation position. This also ensures that the corresponding fastening device is securely fitted in the pre-installation position, which greatly simplifies assembly.

[0019] Another advantageous configuration is that the two side plates are elastically movable, such that when the fastening device moves from the pre-installation position to the final assembly position and / or when the fastening device moves to the pre-installation position, the distance between the side plates can increase at least in a partial section, thereby allowing the head of the fastening device to be guided into an opening in the side plate.

[0020] It can then be configured such that at least one or both of the window-shaped openings in the side panels are sized to be parallel to the insertion direction, so that the corresponding fastening device can laterally pass through the corresponding opening into the area between the side panels and be inserted into the corresponding through hole.

[0021] All versions of the mounting strip may include intermediate mounting elements connected to the through-holes, such as closed or segmented rings similar to sleeves or dowels, which are used to secure the panel. Here, both surface-structured (e.g., threaded) and non-surface-structured (e.g., bolts / pins) fasteners can be used for linear insertion. The pre-installation position of the fasteners can be secured entirely by ribs in the through-holes or supplemented by ribs in the through-holes. In the final assembly position, the fasteners (preferably screws or pins) prop open the intermediate fasteners, but they themselves only pass through the drilled hole in the annular intermediate fastener and only indirectly enter the panel through this drilled hole, or not at all.

[0022] One could also consider using the narrowed portion of the through hole as a pre-installation profile to ensure a press-fit fit of the fastener.

[0023] The present invention also provides a panel for a drawer, to which at least one or more panel supports are fastened according to one of the related claims; and a drawer having such a panel. For mounting the panel to the drawer, the panel support includes at least one fastening strut (e.g., a bolt) that secures the panel to the drawer via a snap-fit ​​mechanism in the side frame. Even with only one fastening strut in the panel support, high stability is ensured even at high panel heights due to the near-full-surface embodiment of the side panel. It is also conceivable to use multiple fastening struts to fasten to multiple snap-fit ​​mechanisms.

[0024] According to claim 18, in order to solve this problem, the present invention also provides a method for mounting a panel support onto a panel, characterized by the following steps: Step A): Provide a panel support (in a fully assembled, partially assembled, or unassembled state, the panel support including at least a mounting strip and a side plate) and associated fastening devices, as well as the panel; Step B): At least one or more fastening devices are placed in a pre-installation position on the support element, and in the final installation position, the fastening heads of the at least one or more fastening devices engage with an opening in the side plate; Step C): In step C), the at least one or more fastening devices from step B) are moved to their final installation position, thereby engaging the at least one or more fastening devices directly or indirectly with the panel or the envelope of the panel via intermediate fastening elements.

[0025] Here, advantages comparable to those of claim 1 are achieved through a simple and reliable assembly method.

[0026] According to an advantageous and easily implemented embodiment of the method, it can be configured such that: first, the fastening device is fixed in the mounting strip, and then the side plate is fixed to the mounting strip, so that the head of the fastening device subsequently engages with the corresponding pre-installed profile of the side plate.

[0027] However, according to another advantageous embodiment, it can also be configured such that the side plate is fastened to the mounting strip, and then the fastening device is arranged in the pre-installation profile.

[0028] In this case, the pre-installation profile can be configured according to one or more related claims.

[0029] The finished installation state is as follows: the fastening device extends fully through the mounting strip and can also extend directly or through intermediate fastening elements to the envelope of the panel in certain sections. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The invention will now be described in more detail by way of examples illustrating one, several, or all of the features of the claims, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The invention is not limited to these embodiments. In particular, individual or more features of the following embodiments may be combined with other equally advantageous embodiments.

[0031] In the following attached figures, Figure 1 A perspective view of the drawer is shown; Figure 2a -c in Figure 2a The image shows a rear view of a known arrangement, in which the panel has two panel supports; Figure 2b It is shown in ) Figure 2a A side view of the arrangement of ) and in Figure 2c It is shown in ) Figure 2a A perspective view of the arrangement of ) Figure 3a -b in Figure 3a The image shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a panel support with fastening devices (formed herein as fastening screws), and... Figure 3b It is shown in ) Figure 3a An exploded view of the arrangement shown. Figure 4a -d in Figure 4a ) to Figure 4d The diagram shows the method for using... Figure 3a The panel support is installed on the panel in four consecutive steps, wherein the panel is not shown; wherein in Figure 4a ) to Figure 4d In the diagram, the panel support is shown in two side views rotated 90° relative to each other, and in which... Figure 4c In addition, a cross-sectional view along line AA perpendicular to the image plane is also shown in the image. Figure 5a -b in Figure 5a The image shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a panel support with a fastening device (in the form of a fastening screw), and... Figure 5b It is shown in ) Figure 5a An exploded view of the arrangement shown. Figure 6a -c in Figure 6a ) to Figure 6c The diagram shows the method for using... Figure 5a The panel support is installed on the panel in three consecutive steps, wherein the panel is not shown; wherein in Figure 6a ) to Figure 6c In the diagram, the panel support is shown in two side views rotated 90° relative to each other, and... Figure 6b In addition, a cross-sectional view along the CC line perpendicular to the image plane is also shown. Figure 7a -b in Figure 7a The image shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of a panel support with fastening devices (here formed as fastening screws), and... Figure 7b It shows Figure 7a An exploded view of the arrangement shown. Figure 8a -c in Figure 8a ) to Figure 8c The diagram shows the method for using... Figure 7a The panel support is installed in three consecutive steps over an opening, wherein the opening is not shown; and wherein in Figure 8a ) to Figure 8c In the diagram, the panel support is shown in two side views rotated 90° relative to each other, where... Figure 8b Additionally, a cross-sectional view along line AA, which is perpendicular to the image plane, is also shown; Figures 9a-9b exist Figure 9aA perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a panel support with fastening devices (formed herein as fastening screws) is shown in the figure, and... Figure 9b It is shown in ) Figure 9a ) Exploded view of the layout; Figures 10a-10b exist Figure 10a ) to Figure 10b The diagram shows the method for using... Figure 9a The panel support is installed on the panel in two consecutive steps, wherein the panel is not shown, and in Figure 10a ) to Figure 10b In the diagram, the panel support is shown in two side views rotated 90° relative to each other; Figures 11a-11b exist Figure 11a The diagram shows a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a panel support with fastening devices (here formed as fastening screws), and... Figure 11b It shows Figure 11a ) Exploded view of the layout; Figures 12a-12b exist Figure 12a ) to Figure 12b The diagram shows the method for using... Figure 11a Two different mounting options for the panel support, where the panel is not shown, and where... Figure 12a ) to Figure 12b In each of them, the panel support is shown in two side views rotated 90° relative to each other; Figures 13a-13b exist Figure 13a A perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a panel support with fastening devices (formed herein as fastening screws) is shown in the figure, and... Figure 13b It is shown in ) Figure 13a An exploded view of the arrangement shown. Figures 14a-14b exist Figure 14a ) to Figure 14b The diagram shows the method for using... Figure 13a ) and Figure 13b The panel support is installed on the panel in two consecutive steps of the first variant, wherein the panel is not shown; Figures 15a-15b exist Figure 15a A perspective view of another embodiment of the mounting strip with a fastening device is shown, and Figure 15b A perspective view of another embodiment of a panel support with fastening devices (formed here as fastening screws) is shown, which are installed in the installation sequence before the rest of the panel support is installed; Figures 16a-16b exist Figure 16aA perspective view of another embodiment of the mounting strip with a fastening device is shown in the figure, and... Figure 16b The diagram shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a panel support with a fastening device (in the form of a fastening screw), which is installed in the installation sequence after the rest of the panel support is installed; Figures 17a-17d exist Figure 17a The front view of the sixth embodiment of the panel support with fastening device is shown in the figure, and Figure 17b Its side view is shown in the figure, and in Figure 17c ) and Figure 17d It is shown in ) Figure 17a A cross-sectional view of section AA of the two, one with a fastening device and the other without a fastening device; Figure 18a -c in Figure 18a ) and Figure 18b Various perspective views of another variation of the panel support are shown in the figure, and... Figure 18c It is shown in ) Figure 18b A magnified detail view of region A; and Figure 19a -d in Figure 19a ) to Figure 19c Various views of yet another variation of the panel support are shown in the figure, revealing features of a possible embodiment of the invention; and Figure 19d It is shown in ) Figure 19c A magnified detail of region B.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: Drawer 1 Side frames 101, 102 Bottom 103 posterior wall 104 Panel 105 Panel support 2 Support element 201 Installation strip 202 Steps 2021 2022 slot Side panels 203, 204 Connecting pins 205, 206 Horizontal opening 207 Adjustment element 208 Through hole 209 Fastening device 210 Fastening device shaft 211 Fastening device head 212 Openings 213 and 214 Grooves 215, 216 Narrowing section 217 Recess 218 Incline 219 Hole 220 Intermediate fastening element 221 Tendon 222 Distance X1, X2 Direction X, Y; Z Detailed Implementation Figure 1 A drawer 1 for use in furniture (not shown separately) is shown. The drawer includes two side frames 101, 102, a bottom 103, a back wall 104, and a panel 105. The side frames 101, 102, the back wall 104, and the panel 105 are connected to each other to form a rectangular frame.

[0033] In order to establish a connection between panel 105 and side frames 101, 102, at least one connecting device is provided for each side frame 101, 102, which establishes a connection between panel 105 and side frames 101, 102.

[0034] According to related technologies and also according to the present invention, the corresponding connecting device includes at least one panel support 2, which may also be referred to as a panel connector (see [link]). Figure 2a , Figure 2b It also includes at least one corresponding suspension device (not shown here) located in or on the respective side frame. The side frames 101, 102 are connected to the panel 105 by hooking the corresponding suspension devices into the corresponding panel supports 2. This is known in itself. For example, reference can be made to general related art or EP 2 747 599 A1 or DE 20 2018 107 032 U1, which show exemplary suspension devices.

[0035] Therefore, the corresponding panel support 2 is designed to engage with the corresponding side frames 101, 102 from the panel 105 during installation. For this purpose, a relatively narrow profile would be advantageous.

[0036] The panel support 2 includes a generally U-shaped support element 201 and a fastening device 210 for securing ("fastening") the support element 201 to the panel 105.

[0037] The support element 201 includes a mounting strip 202 for placement on and fastening to the panel 105, and two side plates 203, 204 that are substantially (i.e., for the largest portion of their area) parallel to each other. The side plates 203, 204 may be made of sheet metal.

[0038] Mounting strip 202 and side plates 203, 204 can be formed as multiple parts or integrally molded. If they are formed as multiple parts, they are securely connected to support element 201. This connection is achieved, for example, by riveting, welding, crimping, or similar methods. See [reference needed] for details. Figure 19a ) to Figure 19d The non-inventive embodiment shown in the diagram, wherein side plates 203 and 204 are directly connected to each other (in this case, by mechanical connection), so that mounting strip 202 can be connected via this mechanical connection. Figure 19d It is advantageously secured in place (hereby guided a section of one of the side panels 204 through the slot 2022 of the mounting strip 202).

[0039] The side panels 203 and 204 include a distance X1 between their opposing inner surfaces and a distance X2 between their opposing outer surfaces, the distance X2 being the sum of the inner distance X1 and the wall thickness of the two side panels 203 and 204.

[0040] The two side panels 203, 204 may each be connected to the mounting strip 202 at their respective edge regions. The two side panels 203, 204 may also have substantially the same shape, although this is not mandatory. In this case, the mounting strip 202 includes a longer length in the Y direction parallel to the panel 105 compared to the two side panels 203, 204. The two side panels 203, 204 are perpendicular to the mounting strip 202 in the Z direction, and their height is preferably greater than the mounting strip 202, at least in some sections. The mounting strip 202 itself may be partially or entirely located between the side panels 203, 204.

[0041] The two side panels 203, 204 can be connected to the mounting strip 202 using one or more fastening elements. These fastening elements can be formed as connecting pins 205, which pass through the mounting strip 202 and the two side panels 203, 204 and connect them to each other. The mounting strip 202 can be configured to include transverse openings 207 (particularly formed as elongated holes) that extend parallel to the panel and parallel to its longitudinal extension in the Y direction, and penetrate the mounting strip 202 in the X direction. If elongated holes are provided, height adjustment can be achieved by combining additional elements such as adjusting elements 208 (not described here).

[0042] One or more (two in this case) connecting pins 206 may also be arranged in the region of the two side plates 203, 204 away from the mounting strip 202, and in this region connect the side plates 203, 204 to each other. The opposite ends of the connecting pins 206 may, for example, engage in the holes 220 in the side plates 203, 204 with the respective smaller diameter end regions, and the two side plates 203, 204 are spaced apart by the larger diameter central region.

[0043] The single connecting pin or these additional connecting pins 206 can also be used to engage with the corresponding corresponding suspension devices of the corresponding side frames 102, 103.

[0044] The corresponding support element 201 is fastened to the panel 105 by one or more bolt-shaped fastening devices 210, each fastening device including a fastening device shaft 211 and a fastening device head 212, the diameter of the fastening device head being larger than the diameter of the fastening device shaft 211. The fastening device shaft 211 may have a surface structure integrally or in partial sections. The corresponding surface structure may be threaded. In this case, the fastening device 210 constitutes a screw.

[0045] Mounting strip 202 is aligned along the Y direction on panel 105, the main extending plane of the panel being the X / Y plane. The mounting strip may include one or more through holes 209 for inserting a corresponding fastening device shaft 211 into the panel, in this case screwed in (the latter not shown here). When mounted on panel 105, these through holes 209 are perpendicularly aligned with panel 105 in the Z direction.

[0046] The diameter of the corresponding fastening device head 212 can be greater than the internal distance X1 between the two side plates 203, 204 in the X direction. The through hole 209 extends between the side plates 203, 204 in the Z direction.

[0047] In this case, it is preferable to use three or four fastening devices 210 to secure the strip mounting strip 202 to the panel 105, in this case by screwing the mounting strip onto the panel 105.

[0048] In this configuration, one or more (in this case, two) fastening devices 210 pass through through holes 209 at both ends of the mounting strip 202 (particularly in the end regions where the mounting strip 202 is longer than the side plates 203, 204). Therefore, these fastening devices 210 do not engage between the side plates 203, 204. Thus, installation can be performed with virtually no difficulty.

[0049] One or more fastening devices 210, particularly one or two fastening devices 210 located in the middle position relative to the mounting strip, have their fastening heads 212 (at least in the fully inserted (screwed-in) state) engaging with the edge regions of the window-like openings 213, 214 of the two side plates 203, 204, passing through the mounting strip 202. Preferably, the two fastening heads 212 are each engaged in these window-like openings 213, 214 by two segments having arcuate cross-sections. These window-like openings 213, 214 should be as small as possible to minimize any adverse effects on the stability of the side plates 203, 204. In this respect, the window-like openings can be less than 30% of the area of ​​the side plates 203, 204, particularly less than 10% of that area. They only need to be sized such that the fastening heads 212 can engage laterally with a certain gap.

[0050] Because the side frames are narrow, the panel supports must also be designed to be correspondingly narrow. Therefore, the fastening head 212, at least those installed between the side panels 203 and 204 (in this case, the central fastening device 210), is wider than the mounting strip 202. This may vary in some sections, for example, if the step 2021 engages in an opening 213. However, substantially, the mounting strip 202 is narrower.

[0051] Therefore, when fully screwed in, the width of the corresponding fastening device head 212 located between the side plates 203 and 204 is greater than the internal distance X1 between the side plates 203 and 204, even though the fastening device head 212 is actually located in the area defined and surrounded by the outer edges of the side plates 203 and 204.

[0052] In this case, the width of the fastening device head or these fastening device heads 212 is greater than the internal distance X1 between the two side plates 203, 204 on the one hand, but on the other hand, preferably not greater than the external distance X2 between the two side plates 203, 204, that is, the distance between the two outer sides of the two side plates 203, 204 that are opposite to each other.

[0053] In this way, the panel support can be easily fastened to the panel using the fastening device head 212, which has a diameter greater than the internal distance X1 between the side panels 203 and 204.

[0054] Accordingly, each of the two side panels 203, 204 is configured to include one or more corresponding (i.e., aligned) openings 213, 214, into which the lateral portion of the fastening device head 212 can engage, at least in the final installed state. The final installed state is such that the fastening devices extend as far as possible through the mounting strip 202 and further into the envelope of the panel, thus fastening them directly or via at least one intermediate element to the panel 105. In this state, the arcuate segment of the corresponding fastening device head 212 engages with the openings 213, 214. This arcuate segment of the cross-section of the fastening device head 212 is defined by an arc and a chord. This is known from the related art.

[0055] This type of solution is particularly suitable for narrow side frames, which can be made of steel plates, for example.

[0056] To facilitate the installation of these fastening devices 210, it can also be configured such that, as shown in Figure 3 and subsequent figures, the side plates 203 and 204 are designed such that one or more fastening devices 210 can be guided to a pre-installation position between the side plates 203 and 204, in which the fastening device is located above, in particular completely above, and aligned with the corresponding through hole 209 of the mounting strip 202, so that the fastening device can be screwed into its fully screwed-in position, i.e., its final installation position.

[0057] This type of solution is particularly suitable for very narrow side frames, which can be made of steel plates, for example, and are less than 14 mm wide, such as 10 mm or narrower.

[0058] Preferably, a mechanism for inserting one or more fastening devices 210 into a pre-installation position between the side plates 203 and 204 is formed in one or both of the side plates 203 and 204, wherein the one or more fastening devices 210, in the finished installation state, engage with the fastening device heads 212 in the openings 213 and 214 of the side plates 203 and 204, and are aligned with the corresponding through holes 209 before moving to the final assembly position between the side plates 203 and 204.

[0059] according to Figure 3a and Figure 3b as well as Figures 4a to 4d and Figure 5a and Figure 5b as well as Figures 6a to 6cFurthermore, according to other accompanying drawings, the mechanism for positioning one or more fastening devices 210 in a pre-installation position (which also preferably enables the fastening devices 210 to be definitively pre-positioned in the pre-installation position from which the fastening devices can be screwed into the panel 105) in each case forms at least one pre-installation profile formed in one or both of the side panels 203, 204. This one or more pre-installation profiles are configured to hold the corresponding fastening devices 210, which, in the final installation state, engage with their fastening heads 212 in the openings 213, 214 of the side panels 203, 204, and are substantially aligned with the through-holes 209 of the mounting strip 201. This allows the support element 201 and at least these fastening devices 210, and optionally additional fastening devices 210, particularly all fastening devices 210, to collectively form a pre-assembly unit.

[0060] This greatly simplifies assembly, as the fastening device 210 is securely pre-assembled above the through hole 209 in a correctly aligned manner.

[0061] As already described, the mounting strip 202 may be partially or entirely located between the side panels 203, 204. However, it may also engage in certain locations (e.g., via raised steps 2021) in one or more openings 213, 214 or similar structures (see [link to documentation]). Figure 5a and Figure 5b This can further stabilize panel support 2.

[0062] according to Figure 3a and Figure 3b as well as Figures 4a to 4d , Figure 5a and Figure 5b and Figures 6a to 6c In the first and second embodiments shown, grooves 215 and 216 with arcuate cross-sections are formed in the side plates 203 and 204 as pre-installation profiles. The corresponding grooves 215 and 216 can be configured as semi-channel structures with arcuate cross-sections. They can be formed in the side plates 203 and 204 by an embossing process. Such grooves may also be formed in only one of the two side plates 203 and 204. However, it is preferable to provide two complementary grooves 215 and 216 in the two side plates 203 and 204 to form a hollow channel into which the corresponding fastening device 210 can be inserted and aligned with the corresponding through hole 209, and held in place, for example, by clamping. Thus, the corresponding pre-installation profile can form a generally circular or cylindrical channel in cross-section, which is perpendicularly aligned with the panel 105 and aligned with the associated fastening device 210 and the associated through hole 209.

[0063] In this way, the fastening device 210 can be clamped between the side plates 203 and 204 in a pre-assembled state before being screwed into the panel 105. The grooves 215 and 216 can extend to the openings 213 and 214.

[0064] according to Figure 4a The embodiment shown in -d preferably includes a variation of the installation method according to the present invention, wherein the panel support 2 and the panel 105 are installed, and the variation includes at least the following steps: Step A'): Provides a panel support 2 with support element 201 and associated fastening device 210, as well as panel 105 ( Figure 4a (No panel 105) Step B'): At least one or more fastening devices 210 are positioned on the support element 201 in a pre-installation position (in the final assembly position, their fastening heads 212 engage in the openings 213, 214 of the side plates 203, 204), in which case the fastening devices are already located between the side plates 203, 204 pre-assembled on the mounting strip 202. Figure 4b , Figure 4c ); Step C): In step C), move at least one or more fastening devices 210 from step B) to their final assembly position and screw them fully into panel 105. Figure 4d ).

[0065] It can be set to: See also Figure 5a and Figure 5b as well as Figures 6a to 6c One or both of the grooves 215 and 216 further include a step in the form of a narrowing portion 217, which narrows the diameter of the respective grooves 215 and 216 in a stepped manner. This stepped narrowing portion 217 is designed to allow the fastening device 210 to be hooked particularly easily into a pre-installed position between the side plates 203 and 204 via its fastening device head 212. The fastening device head 212 is then initially positioned on the side of the narrowing portion 217 opposite to the mounting strip 202.

[0066] This embodiment features a stepped narrowing structure 217, thus providing the following advantages: the fastening device 210 can only be hooked into place at a limited position between the side plates 203 and 204, allowing it to automatically align itself, particularly with the through hole 209. This step can also be designed in a manner other than narrowing, and can also be formed on the mounting contour outside of the grooves 215 and 216.

[0067] In this way, a particularly advantageous mechanism for positioning at least one fastening device 210 in a pre-installation position is easily achieved, wherein the fastening device is held particularly securely between the side plates 203, 204 on the support element 201 in a form-fitting and clamping manner, in a particularly secure and clamping pre-installation position, in which the fastening device preferably has not yet protruded from the corresponding through hole 209 of the mounting strip 202 of the panel support 2.

[0068] When these (intermediate) fastening devices 210 are inserted, the side plates 203, 204 spring open once to allow the fastening device head 212 to slide along the narrowing portion 217. The corresponding fastening device 210 can then be moved into the panel 105 until it reaches its final position during installation, directly or indirectly engaged in the envelope of the panel via an intermediate fastening element 221 (such as an expandable locating pin sleeve or the like). In this state, the corresponding edge segment of the corresponding fastening device head 212 then engages in the corresponding opening 213, 214.

[0069] The pre-installation position of the fastening device 210 can be secured entirely or additionally by the inner rib 222 in the through hole 209, for example, even if the fastening device 210 does not include surface features such as threads or teeth, or only includes such surface features in one area. However, it is also conceivable to install fully threaded screws in this manner.

[0070] In the final assembly position, the fastening devices 210 (preferably screws or pins) open the intermediate fastening devices 221, but they themselves only pass through the drilled holes of the annular intermediate fastening devices 221, and thus only indirectly pass through the panel or the envelope of the panel 105 through the intermediate fastening devices.

[0071] according to Figures 6a to 6c In the embodiment shown, the panel support 2 and the panel 105 are assembled according to steps A') to C') as a variation of the method of the present invention.

[0072] The mechanism, designed as a pre-installation profile for inserting at least one fastening device 210 into the assembly position, can also be made in other ways.

[0073] The following description substantially relates to the differences from the embodiments discussed earlier. Otherwise, reference can be made essentially to the description of the foregoing embodiments.

[0074] Figures 7a to 7b and Figures 8a to 8cThe third embodiment is illustrated, wherein in at least one of the two side plates 203, 204, a recess (particularly an edge recess 218) is formed above the through hole 209 as a pre-installation profile. These pre-installation profiles, formed as one or more recesses, particularly the edge recess 218, allow the corresponding fastening device 210 to be positioned in a pre-installation position where the threaded portion 211 is aligned with the corresponding through hole 209 and hooked between the side plates 203, 204. For this purpose, the mounting strip 202 should preferably be horizontally aligned. In any case, the corresponding threaded portion 211 can then be inserted between the side plates 203, 204 into the area of ​​the edge recess 218, aligned with the through hole 209, until the corresponding fastening device head 212 engages in the edge recess 218.

[0075] Another possibility is that a bevel 219 (e.g., formed as a chamfer) is provided at the edge of one or both of the side plates 203 and 204 to facilitate the insertion of the fastening device head 212. Figure 18a -c).

[0076] It can also be configured such that the corresponding edge recess 218 of one or both of the side plates 203, 204 includes, for example, a chamfered bevel 219 to facilitate the insertion of the fastening device head 212.

[0077] When the (intermediate) fastening device 210 is inserted, the side plates 203 and 204 (preferably formed as side panels) spring open again, allowing the fastening device head 212 to slide into the through hole 209. In this way, the fastening device 210 can be inserted into the panel 105 until it reaches its final installation position. In this state, the edge sections of the corresponding fastening device head 212 also engage in the corresponding openings 213 and 214.

[0078] It can also be based on Figures 8a to 8c The panel support 2 and the panel 105 are installed by using steps A') to C') as a variation of the method of the present invention.

[0079] The pre-installation profile can also be formed as an embossing or recess that differs from the one shown in the figure.

[0080] according to Figure 9a and Figure 9b as well as Figure 10a and Figure 10bIn the fourth embodiment, one or both of the window-like openings 213 and 214 in the side plates 203 and 204 are designed to be long enough and parallel to the threaded insertion direction, such that the corresponding fastening device 210 can be laterally guided through the corresponding opening 213 and / or 214 into the area between the side plates 203 and 204, thereby allowing the fastening device to be held in its pre-installed position above the through hole 209, or substantially engaged in the pre-installed position and insertable into the corresponding through hole 209.

[0081] according to Figure 11a and Figure 11b as well as Figure 12a and Figure 12b In the fifth embodiment, one or both of the window-shaped openings 213 and 214 in the side plates 203 and 204 are designed to be sufficiently long and parallel to the threaded insertion direction, such that the corresponding fastening device 210 can be laterally guided through the corresponding opening 213 and / or 214 into the area between the side plates 203 and 204 and inserted into the corresponding through hole 209. Furthermore, a pre-installation profile is formed in one or both of the side plates 203 and 204. This pre-installation profile is formed to hold the corresponding fastening device 210 pre-assembled on the side plates 203 and 204 substantially aligned with the through hole 209 of the mounting strip 202. Here, the pre-installation profile is also formed as an edge recess 218.

[0082] In this way, the fastening device 210 can be fastened from above ( Figure 12a Pre-installed, or can be installed from the side ( Figure 12b Pre-installed.

[0083] You can also based on Figures 10a to 10b or Figures 12a to 12b Similarly, steps A') to C') are used to install the panel support 2 and the panel 105. When inserting the fastening device 210 laterally into the gap between the side plates 203 and 204, steps B') and C') can be performed directly in sequence, that is, the corresponding fastening device 210 is screwed in laterally, engages with the corresponding through hole 209, and then tightened.

[0084] It should also be noted that other embodiments are conceivable.

[0085] On the one hand, the above-mentioned pre-installation measures can be provided for two or more fastening devices 210.

[0086] Furthermore, if the support element 201 is provided with multiple fastening devices 210, different pre-installation devices may be provided for each fastening device 210; for example, a pre-installation profile may be provided for one fastening device 210, while a very long lateral opening 213, 214 (not shown) may be provided for another fastening device 210.

[0087] In all the variations discussed above, the fastening device 210 directly secures the panel support 2 to the panel 105. In each case, this is achieved by directly screwing the end of the fastening device 210 into the panel 105. However, it can also be configured such that the fastening device 210 indirectly secures the panel support 2 to the panel, in which case an intermediate fastening element 221 can be provided between the respective fastening device 210 and the panel 105. This intermediate fastening element 221 can be annular and can be formed to be closed or not closed along its circumference. Preferably, it is formed to expand upon insertion (e.g., by screwing in) of the respective fastening device 210, particularly expanding in the form of a locating pin. In this case, the preferably annular intermediate fastening device 221 can be configured to be directly aligned, or substantially aligned with, the corresponding through hole 209 on the side of the support element 201 opposite to the side plates 203, 204. In the assembled state, the intermediate fastening device 221 is then integrally or partially engaged with the panel 105, and the end of the fastening device 210 is concentrically engaged with the panel, or more precisely, with the envelope surface of the panel 105. In the case of the plate-shaped panel 105, the outer surface is the outer surface of the plate, and when forming this envelope surface, guide contours in the plate, such as holes for inserting the intermediate fastening element 221, are not taken into account.

[0088] The pre-installation position can also be a partial screw-in position in the through hole 209 of the mounting strip 202. Figure 14a ) and Figure 14b as well as Figure 15a ) and Figure 15b The illustration shows such an embodiment. In this case, the fastening device 210 is preferably not inserted to the extent that it passes through the intermediate fastening element 221.

[0089] Several additional variations will be discussed below. In this case, reference can be made essentially to the description of the previously discussed embodiments. The differences from these embodiments are described below.

[0090] Figure 13a ) to Figure 13b ) and Figure 14a ) to Figure 14b ) as well as Figure 15a ), Figure 15b ), Figure 16a ), Figure 16b ), Figure 17a ), Figure 17b ) and Figure 18a ), Figure 18b A particularly advantageous embodiment is shown in [the diagram]. The relatively large openings 213, 214 in the side panels 203, 204 (here configured to...) Figure 4a ) to Figure 4dThe different designs are intended to ensure that the fastening head 212 remains free even in the pre-installation position, unaffected by the side plates 203, 204. The large openings 213, 214 are sized to ensure engagement in these openings, both in the pre-installation and final assembly positions. The side plates 203, 204 slightly spring open when necessary or only at the start of insertion of the fastening device 210. Figure 15a , Figure 15b (Not shown in the diagram; further explanation to follow), so that the corresponding fastening device 210 can reach the pre-installation position. In the pre-installation position, the fastening device head 212 is visible, so that the fastening device head can be clearly identified by the engaging tool when it “seeks” to engage with the fastening device head 212.

[0091] In several illustrated variations, when the fastening device 210 is in the pre-installation position, the side plates 203, 204 are already fixed to the mounting strip 202 (see example...). Figure 4a ) to Figure 4d ) or for example Figure 16a ) and Figure 16b ) or Figure 17a ) and Figure 17b )).

[0092] However, the fastening device 210 can also be fixed to the mounting strip 202 first. Figure 15a ) and Figure 15b Then, the side plates 203 and 204 are fixed to the mounting strip 202, specifically such that when the side plates 203 and 204 are positioned, the fastening device head 212 is inserted into one or more openings 213, 214 or one or more similar contours of the side plates 203 and 204 and engages with them. Figure 15a , Figure 15b ).

[0093] This variation also allows for a simple and secure attachment of the very narrow panel support 2 to the panel 105. This assembly sequence can be used alternatively in the illustrated embodiment, even though different assembly sequences are illustrated in each case.

[0094] As mentioned elsewhere, the pre-installation position of the fastening device 210 can be secured entirely or additionally by the inner rib 222 (see [link]). Figure 17a ) to Figure 17d For example, even if the fastening device 210 does not include surface features such as threads or teeth, or only includes such surface features in one area, it is still conceivable to install fully threaded screws in this manner.

[0095] about Figure 13a ) to Figure 18b (See also the description of the aforementioned variant.)

[0096] It should also be noted that the corresponding fastening head 212 may include a torque transmission geometry for engaging with a tool, such as an inner polygonal hole, a screwdriver slot, or a similar structure.

[0097] It should also be noted that in all embodiments, the fastening device 210 may be formed using screws. However, it may also be formed in different ways, for example, by including different surface structures in the region of the fastening device shaft 211, or by omitting such structures. In this case, the fastening device may not be able to be secured by screwing, but may be secured by other means, such as linear translational movement by pressing.

Claims

1. A panel support for a connecting device for connecting a panel (105) to a drawer side frame (101, 102), wherein the panel support (2) comprises: a. A support element (201) that is at least partially U-shaped, the support element including a mounting strip (202) for securing the support element (201) to the panel (105) and two side plates (203, 204). b. Two or more fastening devices (210), each consisting of a fastening device head (212) and a fastening device shaft (211), designed to secure the mounting strip (202) to the panel (105), wherein each fastening device (210), in its fully inserted state, utilizes the fastening device shaft (211) to pass through a corresponding through hole (209) in the mounting strip (202) and extend into the envelope of the panel (105), thereby securing the mounting strip (202) directly to the panel (105), or, if necessary, indirectly to the panel (105) via at least one intermediate fastening element (221). c. The diameter of at least one or more of the fastening device heads (212) is greater than the internal distance (X1) between the side plates (203, 204). Its features are, d. The fastening heads (212) of the corresponding fastening devices (210) in feature c) of the side plates (203, 204) are fully inserted into the area when the installation is completed, and each has a window-shaped opening (213, 214), and the corresponding fastening head (212) engages with the edge area and snaps into the window-shaped opening. e. The side plates (203, 204) are configured such that the at least one fastening device (210) according to feature d) can be placed in a pre-installation position between the side plates (203, 204), in which the fastening device (210) is at least partially or completely located above the corresponding through hole (209) and aligned or substantially aligned with the corresponding through hole (209) of the mounting strip (202), thereby enabling it to be moved from the pre-installation position to the final assembly position.

2. The panel support member according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one or more of the fastening device shafts (211) of the corresponding fastening device (210) are provided with surface structures either integrally or in part of the shaft.

3. The panel support member according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one or more of the fastening devices (210) are formed as screws, wherein the corresponding surface structure is formed as threads.

4. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, One or more of the intermediate fastening elements (221) are disposed on the mounting strip (202), the one or more intermediate fastening elements being passed through by the corresponding fastening device (210) in the final assembly position and engaging with the envelope surface of the panel (105) in the final assembly state, such that the corresponding fastening device (210) indirectly fastens the mounting strip (202) to the decorative panel (105) through the corresponding intermediate fastening element (221).

5. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The two side plates (203, 204) are aligned parallel or substantially parallel to each other and are fastened to or integrally connected to the mounting strip (202).

6. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The side plates (203, 204) are each composed of free metal plates.

7. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The device is provided with a mechanism for positioning one or more of the fastening devices (210) in a pre-installation position.

8. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The corresponding mechanism for positioning one or more of the fastening devices (210) in a pre-installation position is formed as at least one pre-installation profile of one or both of the side plates (203, 204), the at least one pre-installation profile enabling the corresponding fastening device (210) to be pre-positioned between the side plates (203, 204) such that the corresponding fastening device (210) is pre-assembled on the support element (201) between the side plates (203, 204) and aligned with or at least partially aligned with the corresponding through hole (209).

9. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Preferably, the at least one pre-installation profile includes at least one groove (215, 216) in one of the two side plates (203, 204) or one groove (215, 216) in each of the two side plates (203, 204), the groove including a corresponding groove (215, 216) aligned parallel to the through hole (209) of the mounting strip (202).

10. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Preferably, the at least one pre-installation profile includes a step, on which the corresponding fastening head (212) is positioned in the pre-installation position.

11. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, At least one or both of the grooves (215, 216) include a narrowing portion (217) as the step, and in the pre-installation position, the corresponding fastening device head (212) is placed on the narrowing portion.

12. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pre-installation profile includes at least one recess of one or both of the side plates (203, 204), particularly the edge recess (218), into which the fastening head (212) of one of the fastening devices (210) engages in the pre-installation position.

13. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, One or both of the side plates (203, 204) include a ramp (219), and the head (212) of the fastening device can be guided along the ramp between the side plates (203, 204).

14. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The two side plates (203, 204) are elastically movable such that when the fastening device (210) is inserted into the pre-installation position and / or inserted from the pre-installation position into the installation-finished state, the distance between the side plates can increase at least in a partial section, so that during further insertion, the head (212) of the fastening device can be guided into the opening (213, 214) in the side plates (203, 204).

15. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, At least one or both of the window-shaped openings (213, 214) in the side plates (203, 204) parallel to the direction of thread insertion are sized such that the corresponding fastening device (210) can laterally pass through the corresponding opening (213 and / or 214) into the area between the side plates (203, 204) and be inserted into the corresponding through hole (209).

16. The panel support member according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pre-installation position of the fastening device (210) is achieved entirely or additionally through the inner rib (222) in the through hole (209).

17. A panel for a drawer (1), characterized in that, At least one or more panel supports (2) according to any one of the preceding claims are fastened to the panel.

18. A drawer, characterized in that... It has a panel (105) as described in claim 17.

19. A method for mounting a panel support (2) on a panel (105) according to claim 17, characterized by the following steps: Step A): A panel support (2) is provided in a fully assembled, partially assembled or unassembled state, the panel support including at least the mounting strip (202) and the side plates (203, 204), together with the associated fastening device (210) and the panel (105). Step B): The at least one or more fastening devices (210) are moved to a pre-installation position, and in the final installation position, the fastening device head (212) of the at least one or more fastening devices engages with the opening (213, 214) of the side plate (203, 204). Step C): In step C), the at least one or more fastening devices (210) in step B) are moved to their final assembly position, thereby engaging the at least one or more fastening devices (210) directly or indirectly with the panel (105) or the envelope of the panel (105) via an intermediate fastening element (221).

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, In step B), the fastening device (210) is first fixed in the mounting strip (202), and after step B), the side plates (203, 204) are fixed to the mounting strip (202), so that the head (212) of the fastening device then engages in the corresponding opening in the side plate (203, 204).

21. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, Before step B), the side plates (203, 204) are fastened to the mounting strip (202), and then the fastening device (210) is arranged in the pre-installation profile.

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