Plate fixing device

Abstract

A board fixing device for furniture includes a board (8) having an inner side (10), an outer side (11) opposite to the inner side (10), at least one end side (12) connecting the inner side (10) and the outer side (11), and the at least one fixing element (14) that can be arranged on the board (8).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a board fixing device for furniture and furniture including the board fixing device. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, some furniture has a frame structure made of rods or tubes, into which panels, especially panels or glass panels, are embedded. This embedded fixing method is not secure; therefore, when a lateral force is applied to the panel surface, the panel may pop out of the frame. For example, using clips or retaining elements to additionally secure the panels can affect the aesthetics of the furniture. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The objective of this invention is to provide a board fixing device for furniture that can securely fix boards and ensure that furniture using such a board fixing device is not aesthetically compromised.

[0004] The task is solved by the features of the following solution. The core of the invention lies in the at least one fixing element. When the board is inserted into the furniture frame, at least one end of the board preferably contacts the furniture frame. For example, a board fixing method achieved without a fixing element by a corresponding shaped profile on at least one end can be improved by adding a fixing element. When the board is inserted into the furniture, the fixing element remains invisible or almost invisible, thus not affecting the aesthetics of the furniture.

[0005] Other advantageous embodiments of the invention are given in the preferred embodiments.

[0006] According to the invention, at least one fixing element is at least partially disposed in a recess extending from the end side of the board into the board. Since the recess extends from the end side into the board, the fixing element located in the recess is concealed, i.e., not visible when the board is inserted into the furniture. Accordingly, the portion of the fixing element outside the recess also contacts the frame of the furniture, thereby additionally securing the board to the furniture. Multiple recesses may also be provided along the end side, each in which a fixing element can be fixed. This further enhances the holding force of the board fixing device in the furniture. For example, for a rectangular board, the recess and thus the fixing element are specifically provided on two opposing long end sides. Recesses and fixing elements may also be provided on all end sides of the board.

[0007] The board fixing device according to the invention facilitates insertion into furniture because when a force is applied longitudinally along the spring, for example when the fixing element contacts the furniture frame, the spring element can be compressed, applying elastic pressure to the frame in the inserted state, thereby keeping the board firmly fixed to the furniture. Therefore, the use of a coil spring, preferably made of spring steel, is particularly advantageous. For cost considerations, especially weight considerations, the spring element can also be made of plastic.

[0008] When the spring element is not under stress, it is advisable to arrange the fixing element at least partially outside the at least one recess. When the panel is installed, the arrangement of the fixing element in the panel fixing device ensures that sufficient elastic spring force is applied to the frame of the furniture. When the spring element is compressed, the portion of the fixing element outside the recess is pressed into the recess, and when the panel is inserted into the frame, the fixing element is flush with the end side of the panel.

[0009] The board fixing device according to the invention ensures that the fixing element is securely anchored within the board and the recess. This is particularly effective when the board is mounted vertically on furniture, preventing the fixing element from detaching from the recess.

[0010] The board fixing device according to the present invention enables improved retention of the board on furniture.

[0011] The fixing element preferably consists of multiple parts. The board fixing device simplifies the manufacture of the fixing element, thereby reducing costs. Specifically, the fixing element consists of three parts: an anchoring element anchored in the recess, a backing element that can be laid flat on the furniture, and a spring element located between the anchoring element and the backing element. In particular, the design of the anchoring element and the backing element allows them to connect to each other, holding the spring element between the two elements while allowing the two elements to move relative to each other. The connection between the anchoring element and the backing element can be specifically designed such that when the backing element is subjected to force, it moves toward the anchoring element, thereby compressing the spring element. For example, this can be achieved by providing a central rib on the backing element or the anchoring element, which passes through the longitudinal axis of the spring element and connects to the anchoring element or the backing element. In this case, the maximum distance of the backing element relative to the anchoring element is defined, for example, by the length of the unloaded, relaxed spring element, such that the rib of one element is held onto the other element by a stop. Meanwhile, compression of the spring element can be achieved by allowing the rib of one of the elements to shift along the longitudinal axis of the spring within the corresponding element.

[0012] According to the plate fixing device of the present invention, the fixing element, especially the anchoring element, can be improved in the anchoring of the recess. The recess is preferably designed as a cylindrical hole, particularly a blind hole, wherein the anchoring portion has a small diameter. The distance between the anchoring portion and the opening on the end face of the recess is maximized. Thus, when the fixing element has its maximum outer diameter in the spring element region, it can be operated in the recess in the installed state, i.e., the spring element can be compressed and then relaxed again, and a firm anchoring can be achieved in the anchoring portion. In particular, the abutment element and the guide element can be constructed as one unit, so that the guide element can guide the displacement of the abutment element within the recess during operation of the spring element. For this purpose, the outer diameter of the guide element can match the inner diameter of the guide portion of the recess. In particular, the guide portion of the recess can be designed as a mating hole.

[0013] Designing the anchoring part as a mating hole simplifies the manufacturing and installation of the plate fixing device, thereby reducing costs. The diameter of the mating hole in the anchoring part can be the same as the diameter of the guide part.

[0014] The plate fixing device according to the present invention allows the fixing element to shift along the recess by compressing or relaxing the spring element. Correspondingly, the abutment element moves along the recess. The shifting portion is located between the guide portion and the anchoring portion of the recess. If the guide portion and the anchoring portion are designed with the same mating hole, the shifting portion also has the same outer diameter. In this case, the outer diameter of the spring element is smaller than the inner diameter of the shifting portion. When the spring element has an increased outer diameter relative to the anchoring element, the inner diameter of the shifting portion is correspondingly larger than the inner diameter of the anchoring portion in the recess. Correspondingly, the inner diameter of the guide portion also increases relative to the inner diameter of the shifting portion, thereby making the recess a stepped hole.

[0015] For example, the longitudinal axis of the at least one recess is kept at a certain distance from, and is particularly parallel to, the mid-plane of the board located between the inner and outer sides. The longitudinal axis is preferably located between the mid-plane of the board and the inner side. This board fixing device allows the fixing element to be eccentrically abutted against the central longitudinal axis of the profile element of the furniture frame. Therefore, the board fixing device has greater stability when subjected to loads perpendicular to the board plane, especially loads toward the inner side of the board, relative to the possibility of the board accidentally detaching from the frame.

[0016] The fixing element described in this invention can also be an independent invention.

[0017] The retaining arms according to the invention can be tilted or perpendicular to each other. The fixing element is preferably integral and advantageously rigid.

[0018] The retaining arm according to the invention is particularly configured to partially clamp profile elements, especially tubular elements, arranged adjacent to each other in a furniture frame, especially in a form-fitting manner. These profile elements advantageously originate from the same node element in the installed state and extend, for example, perpendicularly to each other.

[0019] The configuration according to the invention allows the fixing element to be secured to the frame or the corresponding profile element in a particularly secure, especially form-fitting, manner.

[0020] The plate receiving portion can securely accommodate the plate. Preferably, the movement of the plate, in the inserted state, is advantageously restricted or prevented laterally within the plate receiving portion, perpendicular to its plane.

[0021] The furniture according to the invention is stable, with the panels firmly inserted into the frame, and meets high aesthetic design requirements; for example, the fixing elements of the installed panel fixing device are invisible or almost invisible. Since the panels are held in place by said at least one fixing element while installed in the frame, the stability of the panels is further improved.

[0022] According to the furniture of the present invention, the end-side design of the board or the abutment element has improved, i.e., more robust fixation. The profile of the abutment element, especially a concave profile, matches the profile element, which is an advantage.

[0023] According to the furniture of the present invention, the contours of the end side and the abutment element are matched, forming a contour that matches the profile element, particularly a stepless contour, in the inserted state of the board fixing device. Therefore, the board fixing device contacts the profile element surface, thereby further increasing the holding force of the board within the frame of the furniture. In this way, the board can better withstand loads spanning both the inner and outer sides of the board plane. The overall robustness of the furniture is improved.

[0024] According to the invention, the node element may have 2 to 6 fixing means receptacles, such as holes, especially threaded holes, in which corresponding fixing means, such as threaded bodies, threaded pins, screws, or the like, particularly detachable ones, can be arranged. For example, it is (basically) cubic in shape. The fixing means receptacles are advantageously elongated and form a profile element connection. Two fixing means receptacles may be (each) aligned with each other. However, the fixing means receptacles in the node element may also be inclined or perpendicular to each other. The node element may also constitute a separate inventive object.

[0025] The furniture may be, for example, bookshelves, counters, cabinets, tables, display cases, or similar items. It can serve as an interior furnishing and constitute a stable, integrated unit. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Other features and details of the invention can be obtained from the following description of preferred embodiments based on drawings. In the drawings:

[0027] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of furniture having multiple board fixing devices according to the invention is shown;

[0028] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Enlarged cross-sectional view at the tangent of line II-II;

[0029] Figure 3 It shows that according to Figure 1 Enlarged view of the cross-section along the tangent line III-III;

[0030] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 3 Enlarged detail image;

[0031] Figure 5 An enlarged perspective view of the fixing element is shown;

[0032] Figure 6 It shows the relationship with Figure 3 Corresponding enlarged view of the board without inserted fixing components;

[0033] Figure 7 A perspective view of alternative furniture employing various board fixing devices according to the present invention is shown.

[0034] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 Detail VIII, marked in the middle, mainly showcases the nodal elements of the furniture and their connected profile elements. The nodal elements have three fixing means receiving parts.

[0035] Figure 9 It shows Figure 7 Detail IX marked in the middle mainly shows the alternative node element and its connected profile element, the node element having three fixing means receiving portions;

[0036] Figure 10 It shows Figure 7 The detail marked X in the middle mainly shows the alternative node element and its connected profile element, which has four fixing means receiving parts.

[0037] Figure 11 It shows Figure 7The detail marked XI mainly shows an alternative node element and its connected profile element, the node element having five fixing means receiving portions.

[0038] Figure 12 A perspective view of an alternative node element with two fixing means receiving parts is shown in the furniture.

[0039] Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 Top view of the middle node element.

[0040] Figure 14 It shows Figure 12 , 13 Cross-sectional view of the mid-node element.

[0041] Figure 15 A perspective view of a node element with three fixing means receiving parts is shown, which has been... Figure 8 It is shown in detail in the text, but Figure 15 In the middle, a fixed means of containing the part is invisible.

[0042] Figure 16 It shows Figure 15 Top view of the node element shown.

[0043] Figure 17 It shows Figure 15 , 16 The cross-sectional view of the node element shown.

[0044] Figure 18 A perspective view of a node element with three fixing means receiving parts is shown, which has been... Figure 9 Detailed explanation in the text, but... Figure 18 In the middle, the fixed means receiving part is not visible.

[0045] Figure 19 It shows Figure 18 Top view of the node element shown.

[0046] Figure 20 It shows Figure 18 , 19 The cross-sectional view of the node element shown.

[0047] Figure 21 A perspective view of a node element with four fixing means receiving portions is shown, the element having been... Figure 10 Detailed explanation in the text, but... Figure 21 In the middle, the fixed means receiving part is not visible.

[0048] Figure 22 It shows Figure 21 The top view of the node element shown.

[0049] Figure 23 It shows Figure 21 , 22 The cross-sectional view of the node element shown.

[0050] Figure 24 A perspective view of a node element with five fixing means receiving portions is shown, the element having been... Figure 11 Detailed explanation in the text, but... Figure 24 In the middle, the three fixed means of receiving the part are not visible.

[0051] Figure 25 It shows Figure 24 Another view of the node element shown.

[0052] Figure 26 It shows Figure 24 , 25 The cross-sectional view of the node element shown.

[0053] Figure 27 A perspective view of an alternative node element with six fixing means receiving parts is shown.

[0054] Figure 28 It shows Figure 27 Another view of the node element shown.

[0055] Figure 29 It shows Figure 27 , 28 The cross-sectional view of the node element shown.

[0056] Figure 30 A partial cross-section of the alternative furniture is shown, illustrating the profile elements, panels, and fastening elements designed according to the second embodiment.

[0057] Figure 31 It shows Figure 30 The three-dimensional view of the fixing element shown.

[0058] Figure 32 It shows Figure 31 The top view of the fixing element shown.

[0059] Figure 33 It shows the use of Figure 30 , 31 A schematic diagram of the mounting of the fixing element plate shown in Figure 32. Detailed Implementation

[0060] Figure 1 The furniture 1 shown includes a cubic frame structure 2, which has multiple rectangular frames 3 each configured as a plane, and a panel fixing device 4 that can be inserted into the frame 3. The furniture 1 includes two panel fixing devices 4 already installed in the frame 3 and... Figure 1The panel fixing device 4 shown above the middle frame structure 2 should be installed in the corresponding frame 3. One or more panel fixing devices 4 can be installed in the furniture 1 according to the consumer's design requirements. The frame structure 2 can be designed accordingly by combining the various frames 3 and changing their shapes.

[0061] Each frame 3 includes multiple tubular profile elements 5, which are connected to the frame 3 via node elements 6. The node elements 6 are designed to connect multiple planar frames 3 to the frame structure 2, thus forming a spatial structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the tubular element 5 has an annular cross-section with a cylindrical tubular outer circumferential surface 7. The tubular element 5 may also have an elliptical or oval hollow cross-section.

[0062] The board fixing device 4 includes a generally rectangular board 8. The board 8 has an inner side 10 facing the interior space 9 enclosed by the furniture 1, an outer side 11 opposite to the inner side 10 and facing away from the interior space 9, four end sides 12 connecting the inner side 10 and the outer side 11, and four recesses 13 extending from one end side 12 into the board 8. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, every two recesses 13 are located on the longer end side 12 and adjacent to the corner edge formed with the shorter end side 12. This means that, with the plate fixing device 4 inserted within the frame 3, the recesses 13 are located adjacent to the node element 6. Each recess 13 contains at least a partial fixing element 14. Figure 1 The image shows two fixing elements 14 located on the longer front end side 12. According to... Figure 1 The fixing element 14 on the end side 12, which is farther from the observer, is not visible accordingly. One or more fixing elements 14 may also be provided along the end side 12. However, at least one fixing element 14 must be provided on the plate 8.

[0063] According to the illustrated embodiment, frame 3 is rectangular or square. Alternatively, one or more frames 3 and corresponding plates 8 can be designed as triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, or any other shape, which can be represented by a single tube 5 connected together by node elements 6. In principle, non-flat plates 8 and / or non-polygonal frames 3, such as circular frames 3, can also be used. Therefore, the central longitudinal axis 15 of the tube 5, and thus the tube 5 itself, can be designed to be non-linear, particularly with curvature.

[0064] The following will be based on Figure 1 and Figure 2The connection between the fitting 5 and the node element 6 is described in detail. For this purpose, an expansion pin system 16 is used, comprising an expandable tubular sleeve 17, a plurality of wedge elements 18, a wedge insert 19 for engaging with the wedge elements 18, and a fixing screw 21 screwed into a threaded hole 20 of the node element 6 to cause relative displacement of the tubular sleeve 17 relative to the wedge insert 19 along the central longitudinal axis 15. Figure 2 As shown, in the installed frame 3, the expansion pin system 16 is installed inside the pipe fitting 5. Figure 1 The figures are shown in a disassembled state for ease of understanding only. To access the fixing screws 21, each tube 5 has at least one elongated opening 22 on its tubular outer circumferential surface 7, allowing tools to reach the fixing screws 21. The openings 22 can face or face away from the interior space 9. The openings 22 can also be designed to be large enough that tools can be used from the interior space 9 and outside the furniture 1, even with the board 8 inserted.

[0065] according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The following describes in detail the method of fixing the plate fixing device 4, the plate 8, and the fixing element 14 to the pipe fitting 5. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cross-sectional view is in conjunction with Figure 2 Drawn on parallel cross-sectional planes, but Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cross-sectional plane does not pass through the tube 5 of the frame 3, but through the plate 8. The end face 12 of the plate 8 has a concave profile 23 corresponding to the tubular outer peripheral surface 7. In particular, the profile 23 of the end face 12 is configured such that the plate 8 abuts against the tubular outer peripheral surface 7 of the tube 5 in a face-to-face contact manner through the end face 12, thereby making the plate 8 firmly but detachably connected to the frame 3. Specifically, based on the cylindrical configuration of the tube 5 and the corresponding shaping of the end face 12, it can be displaced along the tubular outer peripheral surface 7, thereby allowing the plate 8 to be hinged to the tube 5 in a swingable manner about the central longitudinal axis 15 of the tube 5.

[0066] Outline 23 has a circular protrusion structure 24, which adjusts accordingly when the tube 5 has other shapes, such as elliptical or oval. The protrusion structure 24 is located between and defined by the outer protrusion 25 and the inner protrusion 26. The protrusion 25 has an inner sidewall 27 facing the protrusion structure 24 and an outer sidewall 28 facing away from the protrusion structure 24. The outer protrusion 25 has a corner 29 formed by the sidewalls 27 and 28. This means that the plate 8 has a clearly shaped edge on its end surface 12, facing outwards 11, extending along the central longitudinal axis 15. In contrast, the connection 30 of the sidewalls 21 and 22 at the inner protrusion 26 is a rounded transition. The outer protrusion 25 and the inner protrusion 26 correspond to the inner side 10 of the plate 8.

[0067] Each plate 8 has a central plane 31 located between the inner side 10 and the outer side 11 of the plate 8, and parallel to the sides 10 and 11. The central planes 31 of the plates 8, which are jointly fixed to the pipe fitting 5, intersect on a common straight line, which is the central longitudinal axis 15 of the pipe fitting 5 connecting the two plates 8. The two protrusions 25 and 26 indicate that the outer protrusion 25, which is parallel to the central plane 31, extends further than the inner protrusion 26.

[0068] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the fixing element 14 and the desired recess 13 are located on the longer end side 12 of the plate 8. The fixing element 14 includes an anchoring element 32, a spring element 33, and abutment element 34. The anchoring element 32 has two spaced-apart, parallel, and concentrically arranged discs 35 and 36, which are securely connected together by a cross-shaped connecting rib 37 to form a single unit. The connecting rib 37 is located between the two discs 35 and 36 and defines the outer surface of the anchoring element 32, the outer diameter of which is the same as the outer diameter of the disc 36. Conversely, the disc 35 has a larger diameter and thus serves as a stop for the anchoring element 32 and, consequently, the fixing element 14 in the recess 13. Accordingly, the lower side 38 of the disc 35 abuts against the step 39 of the recess 13. The anchoring element 32 is made of plastic.

[0069] Beside the disc 35, on the upper side 40 of the disc 35 away from the lower side 38, a spring element 33 in the form of a metal coil spring is provided. The spring element 33 is compressible and releaseable, thereby allowing the spring element 33 and thus the fixing element 14 to move parallel to the plate's mid-plane 31. At one end of the elastic element 33 opposite to the anchoring element 32, the abutment element 34 is provided. The abutment element 34 is also made of plastic, and its length extends along the longitudinal axis 41 of the recess 13, such that when the plate fixing device 4 is inserted into the frame 3, the abutment element 34 and thus the fixing element 14 protrude from the plate 8 at the end side 12 in at least a partial area.

[0070] exist Figure 4 In the installed state of the plate 8 shown, the spring element 33 is under pressure, i.e., compressed, so that the spring element 33 applies an expansion spring force to both the anchoring element 32 and the abutment element 34, and thus the tube 5. Thus, the anchoring element 32 is additionally held in the recess 13, and is pressed against the step 39, particularly by the lower side 38 of the disc 35. The abutment element 34 is pressed against the tube 5 by the contour 42 corresponding to the tubular outer peripheral surface 7. Because multiple fixing elements 14 are respectively provided at opposite end sides 12 of the plate 8, the plate fixing device 4, when inserted into the frame 3 and as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the state shown, it is additionally clamped between the two opposing tubes 5 of the frame 3. In such a state... Figure 4 In the inserted state shown, the fixing element 14 extends from the recess 13 in such a way that the contour 23 of the end surface 12 and the contour 42 of the abutment element 34 form a common, particularly concave, contour for abutting against the outer peripheral surface 7 of the tube. The common contours 23 and 42 are circular in some sections and, in addition to the outer protrusion 25, include an additional inner protrusion 43 of the abutment element 34, which extends in a direction parallel to the mid-plane 31 of the board and has a length substantially the same as that of the outer protrusion 25. The outer protrusion 25 stabilizes the board 8, preventing the load of the furniture 1 from acting on the outer side 11 of the board 8. Correspondingly, when a force is applied to the inner side 10 of the board 8 to operate or load it, the inner protrusion 43 of the abutment element 34 prevents the board 8 from unintentionally detaching from the frame 3. Therefore, in addition to axial tension parallel to the plate's center plane 31, the fixing element 14 also enhances the retention of the tube 5 perpendicular to the plate's center plane 31.

[0071] The following will be based on Figure 6 The design of the recess 13 is described in detail. Accordingly, Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 A magnified detail of the middle plate 8, showing that the fixing element 14 is not inserted into the recess 13. From Figure 6 As can be clearly seen, the recess 13 is arranged in the plate 8 such that the longitudinal axis 41 of the recess 13 is parallel to the intermediate plane 31 of the plate. Furthermore, the longitudinal axis 41 maintains a certain distance from the intermediate plane 31 and faces the inner side 10 of the plate 8. Due to this arrangement of the recess 13 and the design of the profile 42 of the fixing element 14, profiles 23 and 42 can form a common profile. The recess 13 is designed as a blind hole with a step 39. The step 39 divides the recess 13 into an anchoring portion 45 away from the recess opening 44 and a displacement portion 46 facing the recess opening 44.

[0072] Anchoring portion 45 is used to securely accommodate fixing element 14 and anchoring element 32 together. Anchoring portion 45 is designed as a mating hole into which anchoring element 32 can be installed, thereby firmly fixing and retaining fixing element 14 in recess 13. The inner diameter of displacement portion 46 is larger than the inner diameter of anchoring portion 45. This is necessary because, as Figure 4 As shown, the outer diameter of the spring element 33 is larger than the outer diameter of the anchoring element 32. The outer diameter of the spring element 33 is smaller than the inner diameter of the displacement portion 46, so when the spring element 33 is compressed or relaxed, the spring element 33 and the abutment element 34 can be displaced along the longitudinal axis 41 in the recess 13. Alternatively, the pin 47 of the anchoring element 32 and / or the abutment element 34, as well as the spring element 33, can be designed such that the outer diameter of the spring element 33 is smaller than the outer diameter of the anchoring element 32. In this case, the recess 13 can be designed as a hole with a substantially uniform inner diameter, and the displacement portion 46 can be designed as a mating hole.

[0073] like Figure 4 As shown, the diameter of the abutment element 34 is smaller than the diameter of the spring element 33. Alternatively, the abutment element 34 can be designed to have a section disposed within the recess 13, this section having an outer diameter, thereby guiding the displacement of the fixing element 14 within the recess 13. In this case, the abutment element 34 has a guide element corresponding to a corresponding guide portion of the recess 13. Depending on the design of the guide element, the inner diameter of the guide portion can be larger than the inner diameter of the displacement portion 46, thus the recess is designed as a multi-stage aperture.

[0074] The fixing element 14 has a multi-part structure, with the spring element 33 located between the anchoring element 32 and the abutment element 34. Both the anchoring element 32 and the abutment element 34 have pins 47 that extend into the cavities enclosed by the spring element 33 to connect the elements 32, 33, and 34 of the fixing element 14 together. Alternatively, the pins 47 can be designed as ribs to allow the anchoring element 32 and the abutment element 34 to connect to each other, while the spring element 33 is located between them, allowing the elements 32 and 34 to move relative to each other.

[0075] The operation of the expansion pin system 16 and the process of fixing the pipe fitting 5 to the node element 6 will be described in detail below. Starting from the unlocked state of the expansion pin system 16, axial adjustment is made along the central longitudinal axis 15 by screwing in the fixing screw 21. As a result, as Figure 1As shown, the screw head of the fixing screw 21 moves to the upper left, toward the node element 6. Since the cross-sectional area of ​​the screw head is larger than the opening of the tubular sleeve 17, the fixing screw 21 pushes the tubular sleeve 17 to the upper left toward the node element 6. Once the inner conical surface of the wedge element 18 contacts the outer conical surface of the wedge insert 19, a frictional connection is formed between the wedge insert 19 and the wedge element 18 of the tubular sleeve 17, thereby securely connecting the expansion pin system 16 to the node element 6. Simultaneously, by screwing in the fixing screw 21, the wedge element 18, individually mounted on the base of the tubular sleeve 17, is radially pressed outward by the wedge insert 19, its outer side pressing against the inner wall of the tube 5. Therefore, a planar frictional connection is formed between the tubular sleeve 17 and the tube 5, allowing the expansion pin system 16 to continue to be securely connected to the tube 5. Thus, the expansion pin system 16 is used to securely connect the tube 5 to the node element 6 to manufacture the frame 3.

[0076] Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The application of the interior decoration system according to the present invention is described. Based on the installed frame 3, the end side 12 of the plate 8 is first placed on the tube 5 of the frame 3. Since the contour 23 of the end side 12 adopts a configuration corresponding to the tubular outer peripheral surface 7 of the tube 5, the plate 8 can swing about the central longitudinal axis 15 of the tube 5, and when inserted into the frame 3, it swings into the frame 3 in a swinging direction. In this case, it is advantageous that the inner protrusion 26 has a rounded corner construction at the connection part 30 and does not have sharp edges, because this makes it easier to place the plate 8 on the tube 5 and subsequently swing about the central longitudinal axis 15.

[0077] In particular, the rounded corner design of the connection point 30 makes it easier for the plate 8 to be subsequently pressed into the frame 3. Through the swinging motion in the swing direction, the plate 8 contacts the frame 30. Figure 4 The tubular outer circumferential surface 7 of the fitting 5 shown above. By gently pressing the plate 8 in the swing direction, the plate 8 can be pressed into the frame 3.

[0078] When the end face 12 of the plate 8 contacts the tubular outer peripheral surface 7, the fixing element 14 facing the tube 5 is pressed into the recess 13 by the compression spring element 33, so that the end face 12 and the abutment element 34 of the fixing element 14 form a common contour 23, 42. The fixing element 14 can rotate about the longitudinal axis 41 in the recess 13. If the position of the fixing element 14 in the recess 13 prevents the contours 23 and 42 of the end face 12 and the abutment element 34 from forming a common contour, the fixing element 14 and the abutment element 34 are automatically aligned by the abutment element 34 against the tube 5. The fixing element 14 is arranged in a self-aligning manner in particular in the recess 13. After the plate 8 is swung into place around the central longitudinal axis 15 of the pipe fitting 5, the plate 8 is positioned on the corresponding pipe fitting 5 by positioning its end face 12 opposite to the end surface 12 provided on the outer peripheral surface 7 of the tubular tube. Each fixing element 14 is pressed into the recess 13 by abutting against the pipe fitting 5 and under the elastic action of the spring element 33. When the plate 8 is finally installed in the frame 3, the spring element 33 relaxes and applies pressure to the two opposing pipe fittings 5, thereby additionally holding the plate fixing device 4 in the frame 3 and securing it.

[0079] like Figure 3 As shown, with the board 8 inserted into the furniture 1, the upper edge of the end face 12 formed by the corner 29 particularly contributes to the aesthetic appearance and effect of the furniture 1. To the observer, the smooth transition from the board 8 to the frame 3 via the upper edge suggests the formation of a single furniture surface, thus presenting the furniture 1 as a single piece. Since the upper edge is set back relative to the board surface, it is not clearly perceived as an edge.

[0080] If all sides of furniture 1 are fitted with panels 8, thus forming a closed body, furniture 1 can be disassembled by loosening the fixing screws 21 and removing the frame 3, thereby removing the panels 8. If the sides are not fitted with panels 8, all other panels 8 can be pushed outward from the internal space 9 enclosed by furniture 1. The rounded corner design of the connection point 30 is particularly advantageous, as it helps to push out the panels 8 held in the frame 3, which are securely held in the frame 3 due to the surface contact between the end face 12 and the tubular outer peripheral surface 7. The furniture designed according to the present invention is particularly quick, simple, and economical to assemble and disassemble.

[0081] Figure 7 The installation state of alternative furniture 1a is shown, which includes multiple rectangular frames 3 and board fixing devices (not shown) for inserting the frames 3. Furniture 1a has various node elements for connecting pipe fittings 5. Through different node elements, the pipe fittings 5 ​​can be arranged or connected to each other in different ways, such as vertically, vertically, or in particular detachably.

[0082] Figure 8The node element 6, shown in detail, connects the three pipe fittings 5 ​​together. It includes three threaded holes 20 (not shown) extending in different directions, specifically perpendicular to each other. According to... Figure 7 , 8 As shown, two threaded holes 20 extend in the fixed node 6 onto a common plane, which is horizontal in this case. They are perpendicular to each other. A third threaded hole 20 extends vertically. According to... Figure 7 , 8 As shown, it opens downwards. Fixed node 6 forms a corner node element. The pipe fittings 5 ​​can be arranged or fixed correspondingly to each other.

[0083] Figure 9 The node element 6a, shown in detail, again has three threaded holes 20 (not shown). Two threaded holes 20 are aligned with each other, while the third threaded hole 20 is perpendicular to them in the node element 6a. Figure 7 , 9 Two aligned threaded holes 20 extend vertically. One opens upwards, and the other opens downwards. One threaded hole 20 extends horizontally. Node element 6a enables a T-shaped connection of three pipe fittings 5. It is an intermediate node element. For other details, please refer to the preceding description of node element 6.

[0084] Figure 10 The alternative node element 6b, shown in detail, has four threaded holes 20 (not shown). Two threaded holes 20 are aligned with each other and according to... Figure 7 , 10 Vertically extending. One opens upward in node element 6b, and the other opens downward. Two threaded holes 20 extend vertically in node element 6b, located on a common horizontal plane. They extend perpendicularly to the vertically extending threaded holes 20. The four pipe fittings 5 ​​can be connected to each other accordingly. For further details, please refer to the previous description of node element 6.

[0085] Figure 11 The node element 6c shown in detail has five threaded holes 20 (not shown). According to Figure 7 , 11 Two threaded holes 20 extend vertically and are aligned with each other. According to Figure 11 One threaded hole 20 opens upwards, while the other threaded hole 20 opens downwards. Additionally, node element 6c has two more threaded holes 20, which are aligned with each other and extend horizontally. According to... Figure 7 , 11 The fifth threaded hole 20 also extends horizontally and is perpendicular to the other threaded holes 20. According to Figure 11 The threaded hole opens rearward. Five pipe fittings 5 ​​can be connected to node element 6c accordingly. For further details, please refer to the previous description of node element 6.

[0086] Figures 12 to 14 An alternative node element 6d is shown, having two threaded holes 20 extending perpendicularly to each other and opening onto adjacent sides of the node element 6d. Node element 6d is a corner node element. Please refer to the previous description of node element 6 for further details.

[0087] Figures 15 to 17 It shows Figure 8 For a detailed description of node element 6, please refer to the figure. Three threaded holes 20 are visible here.

[0088] Figures 18 to 20 It shows Figure 9 For a detailed description of node element 6a, please refer to the figure. Three threaded holes 20 can also be seen here.

[0089] Figures 21 to 23 It shows Figure 10 For a detailed representation of node element 6b, please refer to the figure. Figures 21 to 23 Four threaded holes 20 are shown.

[0090] Figures 24 to 26 It shows Figure 11 The node element 6c, shown in detail in the figure, includes five visible threaded holes 20.

[0091] Figures 27 to 29 An alternative node element 6e is shown, which has six threaded holes 20 for six pipe fittings 5. Every two threaded holes 20 are aligned with each other. For example, two threaded holes 20 extend vertically, while the others extend horizontally. The six pipe fittings 5 ​​can be connected to each other accordingly. Please also refer to the description of node element 6.

[0092] Each node element 6; 6a; 6b; 6c; 6d; 6e preferably has a corresponding number of side faces, which are preferably all flat, depending on the number of threaded holes 20. The threaded holes 20 open at these side faces, for example, centrally. The other side faces of node elements 6; 6a; 6b; 6c; 6d; 6e do not have threaded holes 20 or their openings and may be curved. Each node element 6; 6a; 6b; 6c; 6d; 6e is, for example, (substantially) cubic and robust.

[0093] In addition, please refer to the previous description of furniture 1.

[0094] The following is for reference. Figures 33 to 3 5 describes an alternative fixing element 14a, which is primarily used for the glass plate 8.

[0095] At the corner between two adjacent horizontal pipe fittings 5, a fixing element 14a is installed. This element is a single piece and robust. In the installed state, the fixing elements 14a partially clamp the two pipe fittings 5 ​​to secure them in their positions. Here, four fixing elements 14a are used to secure a plate 8. Each fixing element 14a can be made of metal or plastic. The vertically placed plate 8 can also be secured or held using the fixing elements 14a.

[0096] The fixing elements 14a are all identical and angular. They are all integral structures. They are preferably transparent or see-through. If the plate 8 needs to be installed in the frame 3, a fixing element 14a should be installed at each corner of the frame 3.

[0097] The fixing element 14a has a first retaining arm 48 and a second retaining arm 49 perpendicular to it. For other shapes of frame 3, the retaining arms 48 and 49 may also form a corresponding other angle x with respect to each other. The fixing element 14a is symmetrical with respect to a plane of symmetry S, which halves the angle x formed by the retaining arms 48 and 49. The fixing element 14a is also symmetrical with respect to a plane of symmetry perpendicular to the plane of symmetry S and intersecting the centers of both retaining arms 48 and 49. The retaining arms 48 and 49 of the fixing element 14a originate from a central node. Each retaining arm 48 and 49 has an outwardly opening tubular receiving portion 50 and 51 and an inwardly opening plate receiving portion 52 and 53, whose centers are located at the same or substantially the same height. To form the receiving portions 50, 51, 52, and 53, the retaining arms 48 and 49 each have a central base rib 54 and 55 with inwardly curved walls 56 and 57. The curvature of the walls 56 and 57 matches the external shape or curvature of the tubular component 5. The curvature is basically the same.

[0098] Plate receiving portions 52 and 53 are located opposite the tubular receiving portions 50 and 51 of the corresponding retaining arms 48 and 49, respectively, and are defined outwardly by base ribs 54 and 55. On the base ribs 54 and 55 that separate the receiving portions 50, 51, 52, and 53 of the retaining arms 48 and 49, two adjacent retaining ribs 58 and 59 or 60 and 61 protrude inwardly. The retaining ribs 58 and 59 or 60 and 61 of the retaining arms 48 and 49 are parallel to each other, therefore the cross-sections of the plate receiving portions 52 and 53 are substantially U-shaped. The distance between the retaining ribs 58 and 59 or 60 and 61 of the retaining arms 48 and 49 is substantially the same as the thickness of the plate 8 to be retained. The plate receiving portions 52 and 53 are interconnected.

[0099] The fitting receiving portions 50 and 51 are defined by curved walls 56 and 57, respectively, and partially enclose two directly connected fittings 5. For example... Figure 33As shown, the walls 56 or 57 are abutted against their respective adjacent pipe fittings 5 ​​in a surface-to-surface contact manner on the outer side. The pipe fitting receiving portions 50, 51 abut against the corresponding pipe fittings 5 ​​within an angle range w, which is approximately 90°. This roughly corresponds to one-quarter of the total perimeter area of ​​the corresponding pipe fitting 5 in the region of the fixing element 14a. The angle range w is typically between 45° and 180°.

[0100] The fitting 5 passes through the central receiving portion 62 of the retaining arms 48 and 49, which extends externally between the retaining arms 48 and 49 and can fix the corresponding fitting 5.

[0101] Plate 8 is inserted into plate receptacles 52 and 53, thereby holding plate 8 in place. They are supported by lower retaining ribs 59 and 61, while upper retaining ribs 58 and 60 prevent plate 8 from being lifted from the fixing elements 14a. Retaining ribs 58, 59, 60, and 61 respectively clamp the edges of plate 8 and extend substantially horizontally. The length and depth of retaining ribs 58, 59 or 60, 61 are carefully selected to ensure that plate 8 is adequately and securely held in plate receptacles 52 and 53. The four fixing elements 14a are individually designed; therefore, they are spaced apart from each other. The lengths of retaining arms 48 and 49 are much shorter than the corresponding dimensions of the plate 8 to be held.

[0102] The following is for reference. Figure 33 The process of assembling furniture 1a using fastening elements 14a is briefly described. Three pipe fittings 5, which later lie on the common plane of furniture 1a, are connected together by screws to form a U-shape or a rectangle open on one side. A plate 8 is pushed into the U-shaped structure from the open side using two fastening elements 14a until the two fastening elements 14a contact the pipe fittings 5 ​​forming the bottom of the U-shape. At this point, the pipe fittings 5 ​​are fixed in the pipe fitting receiving portions 50 and 51 of the retaining arms 48 and 49. Then, two more fastening elements 14a are installed at the end of the plate 8. Subsequently, the missing pipe fittings 5 ​​are connected to the pipe fittings 5 ​​forming the U-shape by screws, thereby reliably holding the plate 8 to the four pipe fittings 5 ​​by the four fastening elements 14a. Then, the other pipe fittings 5 ​​are connected to the pipe fittings 5 ​​by the node elements 6, 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e. The disassembly process of furniture 1a is the reverse of the assembly process.

[0103] Different implementation methods can be combined.

Claims

1. A board fixing device for furniture, comprising: a. Plate (8), which has i. Inner side (10) ii. The outer side (11) opposite to the inner side (10), and iii. At least one end side (12) connecting the inner side (10) and the outer side (11), and b. At least one fixing element (14; 14a) that can be mounted on the plate (8).

2. The plate fixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one recess (13) is provided extending from at least one end side (12) into the plate (8), and at least one fixing element (14) can be arranged at least partially within the at least one recess.

3. The plate fixing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The at least one fixing element (14) has a spring element (33), particularly a helical spring.

4. The plate fixing device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The at least one fixing element (14) has an anchoring element (32) for anchoring within the at least one recess (13).

5. The plate fixing device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one fixing element (14) has a contacting element (34) for contacting the surface of the furniture (1).

6. The plate fixing device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, The at least one recess (13) has an anchoring portion (45) for anchorably receiving the at least one fixing element (14), particularly the anchoring element (32), wherein the anchoring portion (45) is preferably formed by a mating hole.

7. The plate fixing device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The at least one recess (13) has a displacement portion (46) for at least partially displacing the anchoring section of the at least one fixing element (14), particularly the spring element (33) and / or the abutment element (34), within the recess (13).

8. The plate fixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one fixing element (14a) has a first retaining arm (48) and a second retaining arm (49) extending at an angle (x) therewith for retaining the plate (8).

9. The plate fixing device according to claim 8, characterized in that, Each retaining arm (48, 49) has a frame receiving portion (50, 51) for partially clamping the frame (3) of the furniture (1a).

10. The plate fixing device according to claim 9, characterized in that, Each frame receiving portion (50, 51) is defined by a curved wall (56, 57) to abut against the frame (3).

11. The plate fixing device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, Each retaining arm (48, 49) has a plate receiving portion (52, 53) for retaining the plate (8).

12. A type of furniture comprising a. Frame (3), with i. Multiple profile components, especially tubular fittings (5), and ii. A plurality of node elements (6; 6a; 6b; 6c; 6d; 6e) that interconnect the profile elements, and b. At least one plate fixing device according to any of the preceding claims that can be inserted into the frame (3).

13. The furniture according to claim 12, characterized in that, The profile (23) of the profile element (5) is provided with at least one end side (12) matching the profile element (5), in particular a concave profile.

14. The furniture according to claim 13, characterized in that, When the plate fixing device (4) is inserted, the end side (12) and the abutment element (34) have a common, particularly concave profile (23, 42) for abutting the profile element (5).

15. The furniture according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that... Each node element (6; 6a; 6b; 6c; 6d; 6e) has at least two fixing means receiving portions (20) opening in different directions for fixing adjacent profile elements (5) onto the corresponding node element (6; 6a; 6b; 6c; 6d; 6e).

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