Fasteners and methods for fixing a fastener to or in a component

Abstract

Fastener (100) for fixing and / or connecting components (102, 104) or objects, in particular for connecting furniture or machine parts, wherein at least one connecting element (130) of the fastener (100) is fixable in or on a component (102, 104) and comprises the following: a base body (134) and one or more locking elements (176), wherein the one or more locking elements (176) are formed integrally with the base body (134) in an initial position of the fastener (100), wherein the one or more locking elements (176) are detachable from the base body (134) by destroying a predetermined breaking point (196) between the base body (134) and the one or more locking elements (176), and wherein the one or more locking elements (176) are used to fix the base body (134) in or on the component (102, 104) can be moved from the starting position into a safe position,wherein one or more locking elements (176) protrude from one or more passage openings (186) of the base body (134) in the locking position.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a connecting means for fixing and / or joining objects or components, in particular for joining furniture or machine parts.

[0002] Such connecting elements are known, for example, from EP 1 990 549 A1.

[0003] The present invention is based on the objective of providing a connecting means for fixing and / or connecting objects or components, which comprises one or more connecting elements that can be easily and reliably fixed in or on one or more components.

[0004] This problem is solved according to the invention by a connecting means for fixing and / or connecting components or objects, in particular for connecting furniture or machine parts, wherein the connecting means comprises at least one connecting element which can be fixed in or on a component and comprises the following: a base body and one or more locking elements, wherein the one or more locking elements are formed integrally with the base body in an initial position of the connecting means, wherein the one or more locking elements can be detached from the base body by destroying a predetermined breaking point between the base body and the one or more locking elements, and wherein the one or more locking elements can be moved from the initial position to a locking position to fix the base body in or on the component.

[0005] Because the connecting element according to the invention comprises one or more locking elements which are initially formed integrally with the base body and which can be detached from the base body and brought into a locking position in order to fix the base body in or on a component, simple and practical handling of the connecting element on the one hand and reliable and secure fixing of the same in or on one or more components on the other is possible.

[0006] In this description and the attached claims, the term "fixing and / or connecting two components" preferably refers to any type of fixed or movable fixing of the components relative to each other, including the stationary fixing of the components relative to each other and including the connection of the components to each other to enable a predetermined relative movement of the components relative to each other.

[0007] In this description and the accompanying claims, the term "fixing and / or connecting objects" preferably refers to fixing a connecting element to a component, wherein the connecting element preferably comprises an object and / or a receptacle for an object. The connecting element thus allows the object to be fixed to the component, in particular anchored.

[0008] To anchor an object to a component, it may therefore be provided that the connecting means comprises only a single connecting element, which, for example, can be fixed to only one component in order to be able to fix, in particular anchor, a separate object to the component.

[0009] The object could be, for example, a piece of clothing. A receptacle for the object, which is preferably arranged and / or formed on a connecting element, is then, for example, designed as a clothes hook.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally, the object may be a lighting fixture, in particular a light source. Such a lighting fixture may then be integrated into a connecting element or be attachable to it.

[0011] Furthermore, it may be provided that an object includes additional functions, in particular functions independent of a pure connection function, and can be fixed to a component, in particular anchored, by means of at least one connecting element.

[0012] In this description and the attached claims, a connected state or a connected state preferably refers to a state of the connecting means in which one or more connecting elements are fixed in or on one or more components and / or connected to each other.

[0013] When using only one connecting element, a connected state is preferably the state in which the connecting element is fixed in or on a component, in particular anchored.

[0014] When two components are connected, a connected state is preferably the state in which the components are firmly connected to each other by means of the connecting means or are arranged to be movable relative to each other.

[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the at least one connecting element comprises one or more locking elements designed as locking pins or locking bolts.

[0016] A locking element can, for example, be essentially cylindrical, in particular circular cylindrical.

[0017] It may be provided that a connecting element has a tapered end at the front with respect to a securing direction, direction of movement or direction of actuation.

[0018] An end positioned at the rear with respect to a locking direction, direction of movement, or direction of actuation is, for example, flat or provided with a recess. This allows the connecting element to be actuated particularly easily and reliably. For example, an actuating element can simply engage the locking element to actuate it.

[0019] It can be advantageous if a connecting element is solidly constructed.

[0020] In particular, it may be provided that a connecting element is designed as a solid plastic element.

[0021] All the information given above and below concerning the design of individual elements, components, sections, or other parts of the fastener may, in one embodiment of the invention, apply to only a single element, component, section, or other individual part of the fastener. However, it may also be provided that two or more of the respective elements, components, sections, and / or parts of the fastener exhibit the aforementioned features and / or advantages.

[0022] It can be advantageous if the base body includes a guide section by means of which and / or along which one or more locking elements can be guided or directed from the starting position to the locking position.

[0023] In particular, it may be provided that the guide section is formed by one or more passage openings in the base body, within which one or more safety elements are guided or directed.

[0024] One or more passage openings preferably have a shape which corresponds, at least in part, to an external shape of one or more locking elements.

[0025] In particular, it may be provided that one or more passage openings are designed to be at least partially complementary to at least one section of the one or more securing elements.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that one or more locking elements protrude from one or more passage openings of the base body in the initial position and / or in the locking position.

[0027] It may be provided that one or more locking elements protrude from one or more passage openings in the base body both in the initial position and in the locking position.

[0028] It can be advantageous if one or more locking elements protrude from one or more openings in the base body in different directions in the initial position on the one hand and in the locking position on the other.

[0029] For example, it may be provided that one or more locking elements, in the initial position, protrude from the respective passage opening at a first end of the one or more passage openings.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that one or more locking elements in the locking position, in particular exclusively, protrude from the respective passage opening at a second end opposite the first end of the one or more passage openings.

[0031] By actuating one or more locking elements, the one or more locking elements are preferably movable in such a way that a section of the respective locking element protruding from the base body before actuation is arranged in the base body after actuation, while a section of the respective locking element arranged in the base body before actuation preferably protrudes from the base body after actuation.

[0032] It may be provided that the predetermined breaking point between the base body and the one or more locking elements is recessed into the base body.

[0033] In this description and the accompanying claims, the term "predetermined breaking point" is always used in the singular. However, a predetermined breaking point is not to be understood as a single, continuous area, but rather as all areas or sections between the base body and the one or more locking elements that are destroyed to release the one or more locking elements from the base body.

[0034] The predetermined breaking point between the base body and the one or more locking elements is preferably arranged at a distance from both ends of the one or more through-openings in the base body.

[0035] It may be provided that the base body and the one or more locking elements are designed as a single injection-molded component in the initial position of the one or more locking elements.

[0036] The base body preferably comprises a system section to which an actuating device can be attached, by means of which one or more locking elements can be moved from the initial position to the locking position.

[0037] Preferably, several locking elements can be moved from the initial position to the locking position simultaneously and / or by a single actuating movement using the actuating device.

[0038] The present invention therefore also relates to a combination of a connecting means and an actuating device for actuating one or more locking elements.

[0039] The actuating device preferably comprises one or more installation sections, which are preferably designed to be essentially complementary to one or more installation sections of the base body.

[0040] It can be advantageous if the base section of the base body includes one or more ring-shaped depressions.

[0041] The one or more annular recesses are preferably arranged concentrically and / or coaxially around the one or more locking elements.

[0042] In particular, if the mounting section of the base body includes one or more annular recesses, the actuating device preferably includes one or more annular projections, so that the actuating device can be easily and reliably attached to the connecting element for actuating one or more locking elements.

[0043] In one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the base body can be inserted into a groove in an insertion direction, which is provided in or on the component.

[0044] The one or more locking elements are preferably movable transversely, in particular obliquely or perpendicularly, to the insertion direction in order to fix them in the locking position.

[0045] The base body can preferably be positively locked in the groove with respect to the insertion direction by means of one or more locking elements.

[0046] It can be advantageous if the base body includes a curved contact surface which is arc-shaped in a longitudinal section.

[0047] A groove provided in a component preferably has a groove base which is arc-shaped in longitudinal section. The base body, which preferably comprises a curved contact surface which is arc-shaped in longitudinal section, can then be easily inserted into the groove and, in particular by means of the contact surface, slide along the groove base.

[0048] A longitudinal section is understood to be, in particular, a section in a plane in which the insertion direction, preferably curved, lies.

[0049] It can be advantageous if the base body includes one or more non-self-tapping retaining projections.

[0050] The one or more non-self-tapping retaining projections preferably each have a curved support surface which is arc-shaped in a longitudinal section.

[0051] The one or more retaining projections can preferably be inserted into a groove provided on the component with a curved undercut surface which is arc-shaped in a longitudinal section.

[0052] The groove preferably comprises a base section and one or more undercut sections extending away from the base section in a thickness direction.

[0053] In a connected state, one or more retaining projections preferably engage in one or more undercut sections of the groove.

[0054] By means of one or more non-self-tapping retaining projections and one or more curved undercut surfaces, a connection between the base body and the component can preferably be established in such a way that the base body can be moved exclusively along the curved insertion direction.

[0055] It can be advantageous if the base body, in particular the entire connecting element, can be arranged essentially completely in a groove of the component, so that the base body, in particular the entire connecting element, does not protrude beyond a contact surface of the component.

[0056] A contact surface is preferably the surface of the component in which the groove is arranged and in which, for example, another component can be placed if the connecting element serves to connect the two components.

[0057] It can be advantageous if the connecting element, in particular the base body of the connecting element, is essentially flush with the contact surface.

[0058] The connecting element, in particular the base body, preferably fills a groove arranged in the component substantially completely.

[0059] Essentially complete filling means that the cavity volume of the groove is filled to at least approximately 80%, for example at least approximately 90%, and in particular at least approximately 95%.

[0060] It may be provided that the base body includes a connecting section for connecting the connecting element to another connecting element and / or an object.

[0061] The connecting section comprises, for example, one or more retaining elements, one or more spring elements and / or other elements to enable a preferably detachable connection between the connecting element and another connecting element and / or an object.

[0062] The present invention further relates to a method for fixing a connecting element of a connecting means to or in a component.

[0063] The invention is based on the objective of providing a method by which a connecting element of a fastener can be easily and reliably fixed in a component.

[0064] This problem is solved according to the invention by a method for fixing a connecting element of a connecting means in a component, wherein the method comprises the following: Providing a connecting element of a connecting device comprising a base body and one or more locking elements, wherein the one or more locking elements are in a starting position of the connecting device and are formed integrally with the base body; Arranging the connecting element on or in a component, in particular inserting the connecting element into a groove provided in the component; Destroying a predetermined breaking point between the base body and one or more locking elements to release one or more locking elements from the base body; Moving one or more locking elements from the initial position into a locking position to fix the base body of the connecting element to or in the component, in particular in the groove.

[0065] The method according to the invention preferably has one or more of the features and / or advantages described in connection with the connecting element according to the invention.

[0066] It can be advantageous if the base body and one or more locking elements of the connecting element are manufactured together in one piece using an injection molding process, in particular a plastic injection molding process.

[0067] Furthermore, it may be provided that by a single actuation of one or more locking elements, in particular by applying an actuating force directed in a locking direction or actuation direction, the predetermined breaking point is destroyed and the one or more locking elements are moved from the initial position into the locking position.

[0068] Particularly for joining two components, a first connecting element of the fastener can be inserted into the first component. A second connecting element of the fastener is preferably arranged on or in a second component, and in particular inserted into the second component. The components are then preferably joined together by fixing the connecting elements of the fastener to one another, preferably detachably, for example by clamping, snapping, screwing, clipping, etc.

[0069] The one or more locking elements can be designed, for example, as a locking pin, locking nail and / or locking bolt.

[0070] It can be advantageous if the connecting device includes one or more additional pins, nails and / or bolts, by means of which it is possible to act on one or more locking elements in particular.

[0071] For example, the connecting element may include one or more additional pins, nails and / or bolts by means of which the one or more locking elements can be moved into a position different from the initial position and the locking position.

[0072] It can be advantageous if one or more locking elements can be moved further out of the base body and pressed into the component in which, for example, the groove is located, by means of one or more additional pins, additional nails and / or additional bolts.

[0073] When using one or more additional pins, nails and / or bolts, it is preferably provided that a rear end of the one or more locking elements, with respect to the locking direction, direction of movement or direction of actuation, is blunt or flattened in order to preferably prevent an undesirable splitting of the one or more locking elements when moving them by means of the one or more additional pins, nails and / or bolts.

[0074] It can be advantageous if the connecting element includes or forms a guide device for guiding two components relative to each other, wherein a connecting element includes a guide groove and / or wherein a (further) connecting element includes a guide element.

[0075] Preferably, the guide element together with the associated component is movable along the guide groove relative to the other component, in particular linearly displaceable.

[0076] The guide groove is preferably essentially linear.

[0077] It may be provided that the guide groove includes a guide section at which the guide element engages behind the guide groove.

[0078] In particular, it may be provided that the guide groove includes a rear gripping section on which the guide element can engage.

[0079] In one embodiment of the invention, the guide groove is essentially T-shaped.

[0080] The guide groove includes, for example, a cam track for guiding the guide element along a predetermined guide path.

[0081] The guide path preferably has varying distances along the guide groove from a contact surface of the component and / or from a contact surface of the connecting element.

[0082] It may be provided that the guide path has two maximum areas with at least locally, in particular globally, maximum distance from a contact surface of the component and / or from a contact surface of the connecting element.

[0083] Furthermore, it may be provided that the guide path has a minimum area with a locally or globally minimal distance from a contact surface of the component and / or from a mounting surface of the connecting element.

[0084] It can be advantageous if the guide path has a minimum area arranged between the maximum areas with a locally minimal distance from a contact surface of the component and / or from a contact surface of the connecting element, as well as run-out areas adjacent to the maximum area and facing away from the minimum area with decreasing distance from a contact surface of the component and / or from a contact surface of the connecting element.

[0085] It can be provided that the support surface borders a contact surface of the component on both sides. The contact surface then preferably limits the arc-shaped longitudinal section on both sides.

[0086] The groove is preferably designed in the shape of a circular segment, wherein one boundary of the circular segment is a circular arc-shaped groove base surface and another boundary of the circular segment is the contact surface.

[0087] However, it is also possible for the groove to be designed as a partial groove.

[0088] The support surface, for example, borders a contact surface of the component only on one side. A side of the support surface facing away from the contact surface then preferably terminates on a surface of the component different from the contact surface or within the component itself.

[0089] In this description and the attached claims, a side of a support surface is to be understood in particular as an end that limits the support surface along the arc-shaped longitudinal section.

[0090] Further preferred features and / or advantages of the present invention are the subject of the following description and the graphic representation of exemplary embodiments.

[0091] The drawings show:

[0092] Fig. 1 a schematic perspective representation of two components which can be connected to each other by means of a connecting element and which for this purpose comprise two grooves with undercut sections;

[0093] Fig. 2 a semi-transparent representation of the components made of Fig. 1;

[0094] Fig. 3 a schematic cross-section through one of the components made of Fig. 1;

[0095] Fig. 4 a schematic semi-transparent side view of the component made of Fig. 3;

[0096] Fig. 5 a schematic longitudinal section through a first embodiment of a connecting means comprising two connecting elements, wherein the connecting elements are arranged on separate components;

[0097] Fig. 6 a partially cut-away schematic perspective view of the fastener and components made of Fig. 5;

[0098] Fig. 7 one of the Fig. 5. A corresponding schematic representation of the connecting element and the components, wherein the components are connected to each other by means of the connecting element;

[0099] Fig. 8 an enlarged representation of area VIII in Fig. 7;

[0100] Fig. 9 a schematic cross-section through the fastener made of Fig. 5 in the connected state of the connecting elements;

[0101] Fig. 10 a schematic semi-transparent side view of a second embodiment of a fastener and of a component in which the fastener is arranged;

[0102] Fig. 11 a schematic cross-section through the fastener and the component made of Fig. 10;

[0103] Fig. 12 a schematic top view of the fastener and the component made of Fig. 10;

[0104] Fig. 13 a schematic perspective representation of the fastener and the component made of Fig. 10;

[0105] Fig. 14 a schematic longitudinal section through the fastener and the component made of Fig. 10 along line 14-14 in Fig. 12;

[0106] Fig. 15 an enlarged representation of area XV in Fig. 14;

[0107] Fig. 16 one of the Fig. 10. Corresponding representation of the second embodiment of the connecting element and the component, wherein locking elements of the connecting element are arranged in a locking position;

[0108] Fig. 17 one of the Fig. 11 corresponding schematic representation of the fastener and the component made of Fig. 16; and

[0109] Fig. 18 one of the Fig. 14 corresponding schematic representation of the fastener and the component made of Fig. 16.

[0110] Identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols in all figures.

[0111] A whole with 100 The designated connecting element serves, for example, to connect a first, essentially plate-shaped component. 102 with a second, also essentially plate-shaped component 104 (see Fig. 1 to Fig. 4).

[0112] The two components 102 and 104 They consist, for example, of wood or plywood, but can also be made of any other material, such as a metallic material or a plastic material (e.g., Plexiglas). Furthermore, it may be stipulated that the first component 102 and the second component 104 consist of different materials.

[0113] When the two components are connected 102 and104 One narrow side of the first component lies 102 forming contact surface 106 of the first component 102 on a main surface of the second component 104 forming contact surface 108 of the second component 104 to.

[0114] To each of the contact surfaces 106 , 108 Each one leads into the respective component 102 or 104 trained nut 110 , which has a circular cylinder segment or circular cylinder section-shaped base section 112 and two in one thickness direction 116 from the basic section 112 undercut sections extending away 114 includes.

[0115] The radius of curvature of the base section 112 is greater than the groove depth T (see Fig. 4), so that the curved groove base 118 the respective contact surface 106 , 108cuts at an acute angle.

[0116] The basic section 112 the groove 110 points in the thickness direction 116 a width B of, for example, approximately 8 mm.

[0117] Each of the undercut sections 114 the groove 110 is on its respective contact surface 106 or 108 opposite side through a groove base surface 118 flush surface 120 limited, which is shaped like a circular cylindrical shell section and has the same radius of curvature as the base of the groove 118 of the base section 112 exhibits.

[0118] In the direction of the contact surface 106 or 108 Each undercut section will be addressed there. 114 through an undercut surface that is also shaped like a circular cylindrical shell 122 limited, which are concentric to the base area 120is formed and has a smaller radius of curvature.

[0119] Each of the undercut sections is cut laterally. 114 by a perpendicular to the respective contact surface 106 or 108 running lateral boundary surface 124 limited.

[0120] The width b, that is, the extent in the thickness direction 116 , is for each of the undercut sections 114 for example, approximately 1 mm.

[0121] The height h, that is, the distance between the base and the ground surface. 120 and the undercut surface 122 , is for each of the undercut sections 114 for example, approximately 2 mm.

[0122] The basic section 112 every groove 110 is formed by essentially perpendicular to the respective contact surface 106 or 108 running lateral boundary walls 126limited, which have a distance from each other equal to the groove width B.

[0123] For example, from Fig. As can be seen in section 3, it leads into the groove. 110 of the first component 102 one perpendicular to one of the side boundary walls 126 progressive, essentially cylindrical access opening 128 , in particular an access borehole, the other end of which is connected to a main surface 129 of the first component 102 leads to and thus provides access from the exterior of the first building component 102 to the basic section 112 the groove 110 made possible.

[0124] To create the grooves described above 110 on the components 102 and 104 To train, for example the slot milling device described in EP 1 990 549 A1 can be used.

[0125] To connect the components 102 , 104 They can be combined in each of the components 102 ,104 one or more grooves 110 , especially grooves 110 of the type described above.

[0126] However, it may also be intended that only one of the components 102 , 104 with one or more grooves 110 , especially grooves 110 of the aforementioned type, while the further component 104 , 102 no groove 110 of the type described above, a differently shaped groove 110 , includes one or more bores, one or more depressions, one or more protrusions and / or one or more recesses, or is unmachined.

[0127] Various designs of fasteners 100 for connecting components 102 , 104 are described below.

[0128] In the Fig. 5 to Fig. 9 is a first embodiment of a connecting means 100 shown, which is inserted into a groove 110 retractable connecting element 130 and a pluggable connecting element 130 includes.

[0129] Under one in a groove 110 retractable connecting element 130 is preferably a connecting element 130 to understand which one fits into a groove 110 is retractable, which has a base section 112 and one or more oriented in a thickness direction 116 from the basic section 112 undercut sections extending away 114 includes one undercut section. 114 or the multiple undercut sections 114 preferably have one or more undercut surfaces 122 on, which concentric to the base section 112 are formed and arranged. The undercut surface 122or the undercut surfaces 122 They are particularly shaped in the form of a circular cylindrical shell section.

[0130] One in a groove 110 retractable connecting element 130 preferably comprises a base body 134 , which is one of the basic sections 112 the groove 110 corresponding base part 136 and one or more of the undercut sections 114 corresponding holding projections 138 includes.

[0131] The holding projections 138 each includes a curved support surface 140 , which is circular arc-shaped in a longitudinal section.

[0132] The holding projections 138 are specifically designed to be non-self-cutting.

[0133] In this description and the attached claims, a longitudinal section, a longitudinal direction, etc., means a cut or a movement of the connecting element. 130to be understood in a plane in which a movement path of the connecting element 130 when inserting it into a groove 110 lies.

[0134] A longitudinal section is, in particular, one perpendicular to an axis of symmetry of the support surfaces. 140 of the connecting element 130 taken cut.

[0135] A cross-section is understood to be, in particular, a section taken perpendicular to a longitudinal section, for example, a section perpendicular to a contact surface. 106 , 108 and parallel to the axis of symmetry of the support surfaces 140 of the connecting element 130 taken cut.

[0136] Preferably, a cross-section is a section along a plane in which the axis of symmetry of the support surfaces lies. 140 of the connecting element 130 proceeds.

[0137] During the Fig. 5 to Fig. 9 illustrated embodiment of the connecting element 100 The actual connection of the two connecting elements takes place. 130 and the components 102 , 104 together through a guide device 142 .

[0138] The guide device 142 includes a connecting element 130 arranged guide element 144 , which provides one or more leading advantages 146 includes.

[0139] The guide element 144 is particularly in a guide groove 148 the further connecting element 130 usable.

[0140] This guide groove 148 includes a guided section 150 , which is from the guide element 144 by means of the leading advantages 146 is vulnerable to challenge.

[0141] The guide device 142 This includes, in particular, a guided tour of the scenery. 152, which through the guide groove 148 is educated.

[0142] The guided tour 152 It serves in particular to guide the guide element. 144 along a predetermined route.

[0143] This guidance path leads along the guidance groove 148 varying distances from the contact surfaces 106 , 108 the components 102 , 104 on.

[0144] Especially during the stage tour 152 a local minimal area 154 provided for, which of two local or global maximum ranges 156 is surrounded.

[0145] The maximum ranges 156 are in the minimum range 154 far side of run-off areas 158 surrounded.

[0146] To connect the connecting elements 130 as well as the components 102 , 104 First, the connecting elements are connected together.130 on the components 102 , 104 arranged.

[0147] In the next step, the components 102 , 104 together with the connecting elements arranged on it 130 shifted relative to each other, so that the guide element 144 of one connecting element 130 into the guide groove 148 the further connecting element 130 reached.

[0148] The components 102 , 104 and the connecting elements 130 are especially parallel to the contact surfaces 106 , 108 the components 102 , 104 delay.

[0149] The lead 146 It first arrives with a run-off area 158 in intervention and is then carried out over the maximum range 156 into the minimum range 154 guided.

[0150] Due to this minimal range154 the following further maximum range 156 is this minimum range 154 a stable position for the lead 146 along the route by means of the scenery 152 formed leadership path.

[0151] The connecting elements 130 are thus stably connected to each other when the leading advantage 146 in the minimal range 154 the backstage tour 152 is arranged (see especially Fig. 7).

[0152] In principle, the lead can 146 together with the associated connecting element 130 and the associated component 102 , 104 also beyond the further maximum range 156 beyond and from the further run-off area 158 be pushed out.

[0153] The connecting elements 130 They can therefore be completely slid past each other if necessary.

[0154] However, it may also be intended that the connecting elements 130 are not completely able to slide past each other. This is particularly true for the... Fig. 7 and Fig. As can be seen from point 8, this can be achieved, for example, by means of a stop element. 160 a one-sided limitation of the movement path of the connecting elements 130 be formed.

[0155] The stop element 160 is at the in the Fig. 5 to Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, an additional pin or bolt (to be described later) is used.

[0156] To determine the connecting elements 130 of the connecting agent 100 in the components 102 , 104 For example, each groove can be 110 according to the in the Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 types shown in the components 102 , 104 It should be provided for. At least partially complementary connecting elements designed for this purpose.130 They can then be integrated into the components particularly easily. 102 , 104 inserted and fixed within it.

[0157] During the Fig. 5 to Fig. 9 illustrated embodiment of the connecting element 100 However, it is intended that only one of the connecting elements 130 into such a groove 110 is introduceable.

[0158] The further connecting element 130 is a pluggable connecting element 130 , which, for example, has two insertion sections 162 includes.

[0159] The insertion sections 162 are, for example, essentially cylindrical, in particular essentially circular cylindrical, and preferably provided with ribbing, lamellae and / or retaining elements, in particular barbs.

[0160] The insertion sections 162are particularly in circular cylindrical boreholes 164 in one of the components 102 , 104 pluggable, to connect the pluggable connecting element 130 on the component 102 , 104 to determine.

[0161] The pluggable connector 130 also includes a locking device 166 to lock the connecting element 130 with the stop element 160 .

[0162] The locking device 166 includes in particular two locking arms 168 , which are used to lock the connecting elements 130 for example, at the stop element. 160 attack.

[0163] To lock the connecting elements 130 and / or the components 102 , 104 The components are connected to each other. 102 , 104 including the connecting elements arranged therein 130 in one direction of movement 170movable relative to each other, in particular displaceable. This direction of movement 170 is particularly parallel to the contact surfaces 106 , 108 the components 102 , 104 and parallel to the longitudinal direction of the connecting elements 130 and / or the groove 110 aligned.

[0164] The locking arms 168 are related to the direction of movement 170 opposite ends 172 of the pluggable connecting element 130 arranged.

[0165] Preferably, both the pluggable connecting element and the pluggable connecting element are 130 as well as the one in the groove 110 retractable connecting element 130 at least approximately mirror-symmetrical with respect to a direction perpendicular to the direction of motion 170 aligned transverse center axis 174 trained.

[0166] The connecting elements 130This makes them universally suitable for a wide variety of applications.

[0167] The connecting element 130 , which fits into a groove 110 according to the in the Fig. 1 to Fig. The type shown in section 4 can be inserted, and is generally located in this groove. 110 freely movable.

[0168] However, it can be advantageous to use the connecting element 130 in the groove 110 to fix.

[0169] This includes the connecting element 100 one or more safety elements 176 .

[0170] For example, two safety elements 176 to determine the connecting element 130 in the groove 110 planned.

[0171] The safety elements 176 are, for example, used as a safety pin 178 or as a safety bolt 180 trained.

[0172] The aforementioned stop element 160 for example, through an additional pen 182 or an additional bolt 184 of the connecting agent 100 educated.

[0173] The safety elements 176 are in an initial state of the bonding agent 100 for example with the basic body 134 connected. The locking elements are connected by means of an actuating device (not shown). 176 from a starting position into the Fig. 5 to Fig. The safety position shown in section 8 can be brought into place.

[0174] The additional pen 182 or additional bolts 184 This can then occur, in particular, after the activation of one or more safety elements. 176 at the connecting element 130 can be arranged. In particular, the additional pin can 182 or additional bolts 184into a receiving device (through-hole) for a locking element 176 be introduced, thereby activating the safety element 176 can be moved from an initially existing security position to a further (security) position (see in particular Fig. 5 and Fig. 7).

[0175] The exact structure and function of a connecting element 130 with safety elements 176 will be based on the following in the Fig. 10 to Fig. 18 second embodiment of a connecting element 100 explained. All of the features and / or advantages described below are preferably also present in the version described in the Fig. 5 to Fig. 9 first embodiment of the connecting element 100 realized.

[0176] The in the Fig. 10 to Fig. 18 connecting elements shown 130 a connecting element100 This includes a simple explanation of how the safety elements work. 176 no separate connection section for connecting the connecting element 130 with another connecting element 130 .

[0177] Basically, the connecting element can 130 according to the in the Fig. 10 to Fig. 18 embodiment with any device for latching, clipping, interlocking, clamping or otherwise connecting two connecting elements 130 be provided.

[0178] How especially the Fig. 14 and Fig. As can be seen from point 15, the connecting element includes 130 the basic body 134 and one or more, for example two or three, safety elements 176 .

[0179] The basic body 134 and the one or more safety elements 176are formed as a single, integrated piece.

[0180] In particular, the basic body 134 and the one or more safety elements 176 designed as a one-piece injection-molded component.

[0181] The basic body 134 includes one or more openings 186 , in which one or more safety elements 176 are arranged.

[0182] Both one or more safety elements 176 as well as the one or more passage openings 186 are essentially cylindrical in shape.

[0183] The one or more passage openings 186 are, in particular, at least partially, essentially complementary to at least one section of the one or more security elements. 176 trained.

[0184] The one or more passage openings 186 They thus include a guide section 188 , by means of which one or more safety elements 176 can be guided or directed. In particular, the safety elements can 176 by means of the respective guide section 188 along a safety direction 190 to be guided or directed.

[0185] The one or more passage openings 186 They also preferably each include a plant section. 192 , on which an actuating device (not shown) for actuating, in particular moving, one or more locking elements 176 can be created.

[0186] A section of the plant 192 is particularly known as a ring-shaped depression 194 in the basic body 134 trained.

[0187] The ring-shaped depression 194surrounds in particular the safety element 176 .

[0188] An area in which the basic body 134 and the one or more safety elements 176 where they merge into one another, this is a predetermined breaking point. 196 .

[0189] This predetermined breaking point 196 is essentially ring-shaped and borders, for example, the plant section 192 to.

[0190] A safety element 176 This includes, for example, a security direction. 190 pointed end positioned at the front 198 .

[0191] Regarding the direction of security 190 rear end of a safety element 176 is particularly known as a flat end 200 trained.

[0192] In the Fig. 10 to Fig. 15 shown initial state (starting position) of the connecting element 130Do one or more safety elements protrude? 176 at a first end 202 the passage opening 186 from the passage opening 186 out of here.

[0193] The pointed end 198 of one or more safety elements 176 is preferably completely contained in the base body 134 arranged, in particular within an outer contour of the base body 134 arranged.

[0194] By activating a safety element 176 is the safety element 176 along the passage opening 186 in the securing direction 190 movable, so that especially the flat end 200 into the basic body 134 is moved inwards, while the pointed end 198 from the basic body 134 is moved out.

[0195] In this in the Fig. 16 to Fig. 18 shown locking position of the locking element 176 The safety element protrudes 176 then at one of the first ends 202 opposite second end 204 the passage opening 186 from the passage opening 186 out of here.

[0196] To securely fix the connecting element 130 in a groove 110 is the securing direction 190 of the safety element 176 transversely, for example diagonally or perpendicularly, to an insertion direction 206 of the connecting element 130 aligned.

[0197] By activating the safety element 176 is the connecting element 130 thus, in particular, form-fitting in the groove 110 can be determined.

[0198] The embodiment of the connecting element described above 100 and thus the securing of a connecting element 130 in a groove110 It works as follows: First, a groove is cut 110 according to the in the Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 types shown in a component 102 introduced.

[0199] In addition, a connecting element is used. 130 of the connecting agent 100 provided, which at least partially leads to the groove 110 exhibits a complementary form.

[0200] The connecting element 130 It is designed in particular as a one-piece injection-molded component.

[0201] One or more safety elements 176 of the connecting element 130 They are preferably in the initial position and are integrally formed with the base body 134 tied together.

[0202] In the initial position of one or more safety elements 176 will the connecting element 130 in the insertion direction 206 into a groove 110inserted until the base body 134 of the connecting element 130 is arranged in a predetermined position.

[0203] For anchoring the base body 134 In this position, the safety elements are installed next. 176 activated.

[0204] For this purpose, the (not shown) actuating device is attached to one or more system sections. 192 of the connecting element 130 created.

[0205] By actuating the actuating device, in particular by applying an actuating force, the locking elements are then 176 activated.

[0206] The safety elements 176 In particular, this involves a safety-oriented approach. 190 acting force, for example by applying a pressure force to the flat end using the actuating device 200 of the respective safety element 176is exercised.

[0207] Due to this force, the predetermined breaking point is created. 196 between the base body 134 and the respective safety element 176 destroyed.

[0208] One or more safety elements 176 are thus removed from the base body 134 released and then in the securing direction 190 moved.

[0209] By means of the guide section 188 It is ensured that the safety elements 176 in the specified securing direction 190 to be moved.

[0210] How especially the Fig. 16 to Fig. As can be seen on page 18, the safety elements 176 in particular into the component 102 rammed in.

[0211] Preferably, the safety elements 176 moved so far that the safety elements 176 partially in the base body134 and partially in the component 102 are arranged.

[0212] The safety elements 176 This creates a locking mechanism for the base body. 134 regarding the insertion direction 206 , to form the basic body 134 ultimately in the desired position in the groove 110 to determine.

[0213] For example, by using an additional pen. 182 or an additional bolt 184 (see especially Fig. 5 and Fig. 7) may involve additional activation of one or more safety elements 176 take place.

[0214] In particular, such an additional pen can 182 or additional bolts 184 to be used for the safety element 176 completely from the base body 134 out and into the component 102 to move in.

[0215] By means of such an additional pin 182or such an additional bolt 184 For example, an even stronger anchoring of the connecting element is possible. 130 in the groove 110 This can be achieved. Alternatively or additionally, this can be accomplished using such an additional pen. 182 or such an additional bolt 184 an additional functional component, for example a stop element 160 , at the connecting element 130 be ordered.

[0216] As already explained above, the Fig. 10 to Fig. 18 primarily to illustrate how the safety elements function 176 .

[0217] Especially with regard to the remaining form and function of the basic body 134 to fix it in a groove 110 does the one in the Fig. 10 to Fig. 18 embodiment shown with the one in the Fig. 5 to Fig.9 is the same embodiment, so reference is made to its preceding description.

[0218] Because the connecting agent 100 preferably a base body 134 and one or more integrally with the base body 134 trained security personnel 176 It includes a simple-to-use and reliably fixed connecting element. 130 of the connecting agent 100 available. Reference symbol list 100 fasteners 102 Component 104 Component 106 contact area 108 contact area 110 Nut 112 Basic section 114 Undercut section 116 Thickness direction 118 Groove base area 120 floor area 122 Undercut area 124 lateral boundary surface 126 lateral boundary wall 128 Access opening 129 main area 130 connecting element 134 Basic body 136 Base part 138 Holding lead 140 support surface 142 Guide device 144 Guide element 146 Leading lead 148 Guide groove 150 Guide section 152 Backstage tour 154 Minimum range 156 Maximum range 158 Outlet area 160 stop element 162 Insert section 164 bore 166 Locking device 168 Raster arm 170 Direction of movement 172 End 174 Transverse center axis 176 locking element 178 Safety pin 180 locking bolts 182 Additional pen 184 additional bolts 186 Passage opening 188 Main section 190 Securing direction 192 Plant section 194 ring-shaped depressions 196 Breakaway area 198 pointed end 200 flat end 202 first end 204 second end 206 Insertion direction B Groove width T Groove depth b width h height QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0219] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0220] EP 1990549 A1 [0002, 0124]

Claims

[1] Fasteners ( 100 ) for fixing and / or connecting components ( 102 , 104 ) or objects, in particular for connecting furniture or machine parts, where at least one connecting element ( 130 ) of the connecting element ( 100 ) in or on a component ( 102 , 104 ) can be determined and includes the following: a basic body ( 134 ) and one or more safety elements ( 176 ), where one or more safety elements ( 176 ) in a starting position of the connecting element ( 100 ) integrally with the base body ( 134 are trained, where one or more safety elements ( 176 ) by destroying a predetermined breaking point ( 196 ) between the base body ( 134 ) and the one or more safety elements ( 176 ) from the base body ( 134) are solvable and where one or more safety elements ( 176 ) to define the basic body ( 134 ) in or on the component ( 102 , 104 ) can be moved from the starting position into a safe position. [2] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to claim 1, characterized by that the at least one connecting element ( 130 ) one or more as a safety pin ( 178 ) or locking bolts ( 180 ) trained security elements ( 176 ) includes. [3] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by that the basic body ( 134 ) a guide section ( 188 ) includes by means of which and / or along which the one or more safety elements ( 176 ) can be moved or guided from the starting position to the safe position. [4] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to claim 3, characterized bythat the guide section ( 188 ) through one or more openings ( 186 ) in the basic body ( 134 ) is formed, within which one or more safety elements ( 176 are led or directed. [5] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by that one or more safety elements ( 176 ) in the starting position and / or in the secured position from one or more passage openings ( 186 ) of the basic body ( 134 ) stand out. [6] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by that one or more safety elements ( 176 ) in the starting position on the one hand and in the safety position on the other hand in different directions from one or more passage openings ( 186 ) of the basic body ( 134 ) stand out. [7] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that the predetermined breaking point ( 196 ) between the base body ( 134 ) and the one or more safety elements ( 176 ) recessed in the base body ( 134 ) is arranged. [8] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the basic body ( 134 ) and the one or more safety elements ( 176 ) in the starting position of one or more safety elements ( 176 ) are designed as a single-piece injection-molded component. [9] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by that the basic body ( 134 ) a section of the plant ( 192 ) includes, to which an actuating device can be attached, by means of which one or more locking elements ( 176) can be moved from the starting position to the safe position. [10] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to claim 9, characterized by that the plant section ( 192 ) one or more ring-shaped depressions ( 194 ) which in particular are concentric and / or coaxial around one or more locking elements ( 176 are arranged. [11] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by that the basic body ( 134 ) in one insertion direction ( 206 ) into a groove ( 110 ) is insertable, which is in or on the component ( 102 , 104 ) is planned. [12] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to claim 11, characterized by that one or more safety elements ( 176 ) to fix the same in the locking position transversely, in particular obliquely or perpendicularly, to the insertion direction ( 206 are movable. [13] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by that the basic body ( 134 ) comprises a curved mounting surface which is circular arc-shaped in a longitudinal section. [14] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by that the basic body ( 134 ) one or more non-self-tapping retaining projections ( 138 ) includes. [15] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to claim 14, characterized by that one or more non-self-tapping retaining projections ( 138 ) each a curved support surface ( 140 ) exhibit a shape that is circular arc-shaped in a longitudinal section. [16] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by that at least one connecting element ( 130 ) essentially entirely in a groove ( 110 ) of the component ( 102 , 104) can be arranged so that the at least one connecting element ( 130 ) not via a contact surface ( 106 , 108 ) of the component ( 102 , 104 ) protrudes. [17] Fasteners ( 100 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized by that the basic body ( 134 ) a connecting section for connecting the connecting element ( 130 ) with another connecting element ( 130 ) and / or an object. [18] Method for fixing a connecting element ( 130 ) of a connecting element ( 100 ) on or in a component ( 102 , 104 ), encompassing the following: – Providing a connecting element ( 130 ) of a connecting element ( 100 ), which is a basic body ( 134 ) and one or more safety elements ( 176 ) comprises, wherein one or more safety elements ( 176) in a starting position of the connecting element ( 100 ) are present and are integrally formed with the base body ( 134 ) are trained; – Arranging the connecting element ( 130 ) on or in a component ( 102 , 104 ), in particular inserting the connecting element ( 130 ) into one in the component ( 102 , 104 ) provided groove ( 110 ); – Destroying a predetermined breaking point ( 196 ) between the base body ( 134 ) and the one or more safety elements ( 176 ) to release one or more locking elements ( 176 ) from the base body ( 134 ); – Moving one or more locking elements ( 176 ) from the starting position into a locking position to secure the base body ( 134 ) of the connecting element ( 130 ) on or in the component ( 102 , 104), especially in the groove ( 110 ). [19] Method according to claim 18, characterized by that the basic body ( 134 ) and the one or more safety elements ( 176 ) of the connecting element ( 130 ) are manufactured in one piece using an injection molding process, in particular a plastic injection molding process. [20] Method according to one of claims 18 or 19, characterized by that by a single actuation of one or more safety elements ( 176 ), in particular by applying a [feature] in a safety direction ( 190 ) directed actuating force, the predetermined breaking point ( 196 ) destroyed and one or more safety elements ( 176 ) from the starting position to the safety position.

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