Transport trolley

Abstract

A sliding handle unit (10, 10') with at least one crossbar (12, 12') and with two end pieces (14) arranged at the ends of the predominantly horizontal crossbar (12, 12') in the assembled state, which have a device (16) for attaching to a manually movable transport trolley (34), wherein the sliding handle unit (10, 10') has a freestanding, projecting gripping unit (20) at each of its two end pieces (14), wherein the gripping unit (20) consists of at least one gripping unit receptacle (22) and one gripping unit insert (24), and wherein one gripping unit receptacle (22) is integrally formed on each end piece (14). wherein the gripping unit insert (24) can be inserted into the gripping unit receptacle (22) and wherein the gripping unit insert (24) can be locked into the gripping unit receptacle (22) and wherein the handle unit receptacle (22) and the handle unit insert (24) interlock at least partially in the assembled state. the gripping unit (20) is inclined in the direction of the crossbar (12, 12') in the assembled state, and the end piece (14) continues to have a projection (26) which can be inserted into the crossbar (12, 12').

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a sliding handle unit for attachment to a manually movable transport trolley and to such a transport trolley.

[0002] Transport trolleys, such as shopping trolleys or trolleys in hardware stores, have push handles that allow the user to push the trolley. In the retail sector, in particular, such trolleys are equipped with a transverse or horizontal handle for pushing.

[0003] Transport trolleys for heavy and bulky goods, such as those found in a building supply store or wholesale market, are often equipped with protruding handles. These allow for a natural hand position when moving the heavily loaded trolley.

[0004] From WO 2012 / 042 033 A1, a push handle for a transport trolley is already known, which, in addition to a transverse or horizontally running crossbar, also has protruding handle parts at both ends of the push handle, wherein these handle parts are rotatably mounted about a mounting axis and can also be fixed in a position.

[0005] Furthermore, DE 20 2010 013 748 U1 shows a push handle for a transport trolley in which the handle part is rotatably mounted about an axis S and can be locked at different angles with respect to the axis S.

[0006] From EP 0 985 200 B1, a handle with a central piece and with two end pieces that can be attached to the ends of the central piece is already known, wherein the end pieces have a device for attachment to a transport trolley, such as a shopping trolley.

[0007] DE 10 2013 102 911 A1 also shows a transport cart with a swiveling handle arrangement.

[0008] It would be desirable to further develop a push handle unit for transport trolleys in such a way that the user can vary their hand position and both a vertical and a horizontal grip option is provided.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to further develop a sliding handle unit and a transport trolley of the type mentioned at the outset in an advantageous manner, in particular in that the vertical gripping option of a sliding handle unit can be improved and better adapted.

[0010] This problem is solved according to the invention by a sliding handle unit with the features of claim 1. According to this invention, a sliding handle unit is provided with a crossbar and with two end pieces arranged at the ends of the crossbar in the assembled state, wherein the end pieces have a device for attaching them to a manually movable transport cart, wherein the sliding handle unit has a freestanding, projecting gripping unit at each of the two end pieces, wherein the gripping unit consists of at least one gripping unit receptacle and one gripping unit insert, and wherein one gripping unit receptacle is integrally formed on each end piece.

[0011] The transport cart could be, for example, a shopping cart or a transport cart for hardware stores.

[0012] The invention is based on the fundamental idea that the freestanding, upright gripping unit, which provides a vertical gripping option for the user of the transport cart, is simpler in design and can be adapted to specific needs and ergonomic requirements. This is achieved by designing the gripping unit in at least two parts, allowing, for example, the gripping unit insert to be adjusted as needed. Furthermore, the gripping unit insert can be easily replaced, for example, if damaged. This can be done without having to completely disassemble the push handle unit or the end pieces.

[0013] The end piece, especially the gripper unit mount, but also the gripper unit insert, can be manufactured using injection molding. It is conceivable to use suitable injection-moldable plastics, particularly those with high impact resistance. Fiber-reinforced polypropylene (PP) or non-fiber-reinforced polypropylene (PP) are particularly suitable options.

[0014] Various shapes can be chosen for the gripping unit. For example, round or rounded gripping units are conceivable, offering a grip adapted to the user's hand when using a push handle. Other possibilities include finger grooves, resting surfaces, thumb indentations, and corresponding indentations adapted to the user's hand shape. In particular, a separate support surface for the palm with a recess that rests directly on the inside of the palm is also conceivable. Overall, an ergonomic adaptation is desired, with a design chosen to be suitable for both small and large hands, with the height and cross-section adjusted accordingly. Improved hand support and a corresponding ergonomic design also make it easier to apply force to the gripping unit.The improved hand support on the gripping unit makes it easier for the user to move even heavy shopping carts or transport trolleys. Furthermore, the gripping unit insert can be designed to fit into the gripping unit receptacle. This simplifies the installation of the gripping unit insert in the receptacle. It is also conceivable that the gripping unit insert and gripping unit receptacle are designed to be compatible.

[0015] Furthermore, the gripper insert can be designed to lock into the gripper receptacle. This locking mechanism allows for easy attachment of the gripper insert to the receptacle. It is also conceivable that the locking mechanism can be released without tools. This makes it possible to use and replace gripper inserts of different designs within the gripper receptacle.

[0016] The gripping unit insert can have a mounting edge, at least in some sections. This mounting edge can be adapted to the edge of the gripping unit receptacle. This provides a clear mounting option for the gripping unit insert, enabling assembly and, in particular, correct assembly.

[0017] The crossbar can have a central section and two handle sections separated by the central section. The central section can perform specific functions, and the provision of two handle sections allows for easy handling of the sliding handle unit.

[0018] In particular, the central piece may be designed to include a coin deposit system and / or a display area. Such a design is known, for example, from EP 0 985 200 B1.

[0019] This design also allows the gripping unit inserts to be mounted even after transport, for example, of the pre-assembled transport trolley and the push handle unit without the gripping unit inserts. Furthermore, it opens up additional possibilities for simplifying or creating variations in material, color, tactile properties, ergonomic adjustments, static reduction, cleaning, and replacement.

[0020] Furthermore, each handle section can be designed with a projection on the crossbar and a projection on the end piece. This allows for a more stable overall design of the end pieces, as the middle section does not have to form the entire handle section and its free end does not connect directly to the end piece. Instead, this prevents a notch effect from occurring directly at the end piece with its projection.

[0021] Furthermore, it can be designed so that the gripping unit mount and the gripping unit insert, when assembled, engage at least partially in a form-fitting manner. This facilitates the transmission of forces by pushing and pulling on the gripping unit by the user.

[0022] The end piece can be made of plastic. For example, polypropylene (reinforced or unreinforced) or a fiber-reinforced plastic could be used. In principle, any type of plastic is suitable, especially impact-resistant plastic. Using plastic for the end piece allows for cost-effective manufacturing.

[0023] The gripping unit receptacle can be essentially cup-shaped. This facilitates the insertion of the gripping unit insert into the gripping unit receptacle.

[0024] The gripper mount and the gripper insert can be made, at least partially, from different materials. This allows, for example, for different colors in the gripper mount or end piece on one side and the gripper insert on the other. It also enables antistatic measures; for instance, the gripper insert can be made of antistatic materials, or an insulating layer can be provided between the gripper mount and the gripper insert. Furthermore, the gripper insert can be partially fitted with rubber or silicone inserts to improve grip properties.

[0025] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the gripping unit is inclined towards the crossbar when assembled. This would ensure that the pusher's hands remain within the trolley's silhouette while pushing, thus reducing the risk of injury.

[0026] The end piece can further feature a projection that can be inserted into the cross member. This enables a simple and secure connection between the end piece and the cross member. It is particularly conceivable that the projection, which can be inserted into the cross member, engages with it in a form-fitting manner.

[0027] Preferably, the design can incorporate an anti-rotation feature. This increases the stability of the sliding handle unit and also simplifies assembly.

[0028] Furthermore, it can be provided that, in its assembled state, the gripping unit forms an angle with the crossbar in the range of approximately 55° to 85°, and in particular approximately 60° to 75°. This angle range is especially advantageous as an ergonomic design, providing an ideal point of contact for the user when pushing the transport cart with the gripping unit. An angle range, particularly between approximately 60° and 75°, allows the user's hand to be positioned on the gripping unit in such a way that it remains within the silhouette of the transport cart and therefore does not protrude, thus protecting it from collisions.

[0029] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a manually movable transport cart with a push handle unit as described above. The transport cart can, in particular, be a shopping cart or a transport cart for hardware stores.

[0030] Further details and advantages of the present invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to an exemplary embodiment shown in the drawing.

[0031] They show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of an embodiment of a sliding handle unit according to the invention; Fig. 2 a perspective detail view of a sliding handle unit according to the invention; Fig. 3 a perspective view of a shopping cart with the push handle unit according to Fig. 1; and Fig. 4 a perspective view of a further embodiment of a sliding handle unit according to the invention.

[0032] Fig. Figure 1 shows in perspective an embodiment of a sliding handle unit 10 according to the invention.

[0033] The sliding handle unit 10 has a crossbar 12, which is designed here as a cross rod.

[0034] The crossbar 12 can also have a central section 13' and two handle sections 18' separated from each other by the central section 13' (see Fig. 4).

[0035] The crossbar 12 can also have a coin deposit system, as is disclosed, for example, in EP 0 985 200 B1.

[0036] In its assembled state, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the sliding handle unit 10 further has an end piece 14 at each of the two ends of the crossbar 12, which are identically constructed in a mirror image.

[0037] The end pieces 14 have a device 16 for attachment to a manually movable transport cart (not shown in detail).

[0038] Such a transport cart could be a shopping cart or a transport cart for hardware stores.

[0039] In the area of ​​the ends of the crossbar 12, two handle sections 18 are provided, which represent the regular handle position of a person pushing the cart in normal pushing operation.

[0040] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, two handle sections 18' are provided, separated by a section of the middle piece 13'.

[0041] The sliding handle unit 10 has freestanding, projecting gripping units 20 at each of its two end pieces 14. Each gripping unit 20 is formed from at least one gripping unit receptacle 22 and one gripping unit insert 24.

[0042] The gripping unit receptacles 22 are each integrally formed onto the corresponding end piece 14.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the end piece 14 and the gripping unit receptacle 22 are formed in one piece.

[0044] Further details are from Fig. 2 is evident.

[0045] The gripping unit receptacle 22 is essentially chalice-shaped.

[0046] The gripping unit insert 24 is inserted into the cup-shaped gripping unit receptacle 22 or locked into place therein. In the assembled state, the gripping unit receptacle 22 and the gripping unit insert 24 engage with each other in a form-fitting manner, at least partially.

[0047] The device for attaching it to the manually movable transport cart 16 is designed such that it can be mounted on a corresponding attachment point of the transport cart. This attachment point can be either a positive-locking connection only, or a positive-locking connection with additional bolting, riveting, or screwing. In principle, it is also conceivable that the device 16 could be mounted on a part of a basket or a support of the transport cart's chassis.

[0048] How this will develop further Fig. 1 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, each handle section 18 is formed by the crossbar 12 and by a projection of the end piece 14.

[0049] The end pieces 14 are made of plastic, in this case polypropylene (PP). The gripper unit holder 22 and the gripper unit insert 24 can be made of identical materials. However, this is not mandatory; it is also conceivable that the gripper unit holder 22 and the gripper unit insert 24, as shown here, are at least partially made of different materials. Thus, the gripper unit holder 22, like the end piece 14, is made of plastic, while the gripper unit insert 24 is partially made of a rubber material to enable better gripping properties.

[0050] The gripping unit insert 24 has a circumferential mounting edge 24a. The mounting edge 24a, in turn, is adapted to the edge 22a of the gripping unit receptacle. This provides a unique mounting option for the gripping unit insert, as there is only one mounting option for the gripping unit insert 24 and the associated gripping unit receptacle 22 (the right and left gripping units are mirror images of each other), which facilitates assembly and, in particular, ensures correct assembly.

[0051] Furthermore, the gripping unit insert 24 has a recess 24b for the support of the thumb.

[0052] The overall shape of the gripping unit 20 is such that it offers a gripping option adapted to the hands of the user of a sliding handle unit. This could include finger recesses, resting surfaces, thumb indentations, and corresponding indentations adapted to the user's hand shape. In particular, it is conceivable that a separate support surface 24c for the palm of the hand with a recess can be provided, which can then rest directly on the inner surface of the palm.

[0053] Overall, the gripping unit 20 is ergonomically designed, with its shape chosen to accommodate both small and large hands, with height and cross-section adjusted accordingly. Improved hand support and ergonomic design also make it easier to apply force to the gripping unit 20. This improved hand support on the gripping unit 20 makes it easier for the user to move even heavy shopping carts or trolleys.

[0054] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the gripping unit insert 24 is inserted into the gripping unit receptacle 22. This facilitates the assembly of the gripping unit insert 24 in the gripping unit receptacle 22. The gripping unit insert 24 and the gripping unit receptacle 22 are matched to each other.

[0055] The gripping unit 20 is in the assembled state, as is also the case in Fig. As can be seen, it is inclined in the direction of the crossbar 12.

[0056] In the assembled state, both gripping units 20 enclose an angle of approximately 60° to approximately 75° with the crossbar 12.

[0057] The end piece 14 further has a projection 26 which can be inserted into a recess 28 which is not shown in detail but is designed for a form-fitting insertion.

[0058] The projection 26 further features an anti-rotation device 30, wherein the anti-rotation device 30 is formed by the shaping of the projection 26 with a nose 32.

[0059] Fig. Figure 3 shows in perspective the sliding handle unit 10 in the mounted state on a shopping trolley 34.

[0060] The function of the sliding handle unit 10 can be described as follows: The handle sections 18 enable the transport trolley (not shown in detail) to be pushed in such a way that it can be gripped and pushed as usual with horizontally placed hands.

[0061] The gripping units 20 make it easier to push and pull the transport cart, especially when the cart is heavily loaded.

[0062] Because the gripping units 20 are designed in two parts, namely the gripping unit receptacle 22 and the gripping unit insert 24, it is possible to replace parts of the gripping units 20 more easily in case of damage.

[0063] Furthermore, it is possible to enable a better ergonomic design of the gripping units 20.

[0064] Furthermore, it is possible to mount the gripping unit inserts 24 only after transport, which can facilitate transport.

[0065] If the gripping unit inserts 24 are damaged, they can be easily exchanged and replaced without having to completely disassemble the entire sliding handle unit 10.

[0066] The gripper unit holder 22, as well as the gripper unit insert 24 and the end piece 14, can be manufactured using injection molding. Possible materials include, for example, impact-resistant, injection-moldable plastics such as polypropylene (PP). The injection-moldable plastics can be fiber-reinforced or non-fiber-reinforced.

[0067] Fig. Figure 4 shows in perspective view another embodiment of a sliding unit 10', which can alternatively be attached to the one in Fig. The 3 shopping carts shown can be mounted on 34.

[0068] Here, the crossbar 12' has a central section 13' which is designed as a coin deposit system 36'.

[0069] The coin deposit system 36' also features a display field 38' in which advertising can be clipped.

[0070] The end pieces 14 with the gripping unit receptacle 22 and the gripping unit insert 24 are identically designed as in the one described in Fig. 1 to 3 shown embodiment. Reference sign 10 sliding handle unit 12 crossbars 14 End piece 16. Facility 18 Handle section 20 gripping units 22 Gripping unit attachment 22a Rand 24 gripping unit deployment 24a Top edge 24b trough 24c contact surface 26 Approach 28 Exclusion 30 Anti-rotation device 32 Nose 34 shopping carts 10' Push handle unit 12' Cross brace 13' center section 18' handle section 36' coin deposit system 38' Display area

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