Stackable housing module and modular system of stackable housing modules for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, connection module and connection system and their use

Abstract

A stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) and a modular system for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements are provided, as well as a connection module, connection system and their use, wherein said arrangements comprise one or more connection arrangements and / or connection modules (21, 31, 41), wherein one or more of or each of said connection arrangements and / or connection modules (21, 31, 41) comprises at least one connection and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) extending in a first spatial direction (x), wherein such a connection and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) is configured to engage with at least one further connection and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connection and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43). 43) to form, which extends in the first spatial direction (x).

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to - a stackable housing module for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, as well as on - a modular system of stackable enclosure modules for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, - on a connection module or on a connection arrangement, in particular on a connection module or a connection arrangement for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, as well as on - a connection system, in particular a connection system comprising one or more of the aforementioned connection module(s) or connection arrangement(s), in particular a connection system for modular electronic devices and / or for modular electronic arrangements, and - the use of a aforementioned connection module or connection arrangement and / or connection system in a stackable housing module and / or in a modular system comprising a plurality of stackable housing modules, in particular for electronic devices and / or for electronic arrangements. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Document DE 20 2010 013 994 U1 describes a cuboid housing with a projection having a receptacle in the region of an upper edge and with a projection in the region of a lower edge opposite the upper edge, each at one end of the housing, and with a fastening device. The receptacle is designed as a groove and the projection as a tongue such that when one housing is joined to a corresponding other housing, a detachable tongue-and-groove connection can be formed. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a stackable housing module for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, in particular for electronic amplifier arrangements, which is stackable in at least one first spatial direction relative to the housing module, comprising: one or more connection arrangements and / or connection modules, in particular connection arrangements and / or connection modules according to any other aspect or any combination of aspects of the invention as described in this document, wherein one or more of the connection arrangements and / or connection modules comprise: at least one connecting and / or clamping element extending in the aforementioned first spatial direction, wherein this connecting and / or clamping element is designed to engage with at least one further connecting and / or clamping element to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements extending in the first spatial direction.

[0004] For the purposes of the invention as described in any aspect of this document, the expressions “stackable in at least one first spatial direction” and “extending in the first spatial direction” and any other expression relating to such a spatial direction shall be understood to mean that all such expressions relate to the same spatial direction or substantially the same spatial direction, i.e., a slight relative variation of the respective spatial directions is included within the scope of the invention.

[0005] In particular, the same spatial direction should essentially be understood as meaning that an angle A can lie between two first spatial directions, i.e., between a first spatial direction in which one or more stackable housing modules can be stacked or stacked and a (further) first spatial direction in which at least one connecting and / or tensioning element and / or a chain of connecting and / or tensioning elements extends.

[0006] Such an angle A can lie, in particular, in the range between zero degrees and 45 degrees (0° <= A <= 45°), especially in the range between zero degrees and 20 degrees (0° <= A <= 20°), and especially in the range between zero degrees and 10 degrees (0° <= A <= 10°). In a special embodiment, the angle A is equal to or substantially equal to zero degrees (A = 0°).

[0007] Alternatively, the term “connected connecting and / or clamping elements extending in the first spatial direction” and any other term referring to such an extension in a spatial direction also includes a slightly curved extension or bending of connecting and / or clamping elements and / or a chain of connecting and / or clamping elements in a two-dimensional plane instead of strictly in a one-dimensional direction.

[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, in the aspect of the invention relating to a stackable housing module as previously described, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, one or more of the connection arrangements and / or connection modules comprises: at least one connection and / or clamping element comprising at least one distal end forming an engagement element, wherein such an engagement element is configured to engage with an engagement element of at least one further connection and / or clamping element of a further connection arrangement and / or connection module by means of a positive-locking connection and / or by means of a force-locking connection.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a stackable housing module, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, such an aspect of the invention comprises a lever element which interacts with at least one connecting and / or clamping element, in particular to effect a rotational movement of the at least one connecting and / or clamping element, wherein the at least one connecting and / or clamping element is floatingly mounted on the lever element.

[0010] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the aspects of the invention relating to a stackable housing module as previously described, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, one or more of the connection arrangements and / or connection modules further comprises: at least one guide element which interacts with a lever element and / or a connecting and / or clamping element by means of at least one contoured interaction area, wherein such at least one contoured interaction area acts as a control cam element.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a stackable housing module, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, at least one contoured interaction area is designed to convert a rotational movement of a lever element and / or a connecting and / or clamping element into a translational movement of the lever element and / or the connecting and / or clamping element in the first spatial direction.

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a stackable housing module, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, one or more of the connection arrangements and / or connection modules are detachably attached to a housing and / or a housing wall, in particular to at least one housing wall of the stackable housing module, in particular by means of at least one fastening element configured for a positive-locking connection and / or a force-locking connection.

[0013] According to a further aspect, the present invention provides a modular system comprising a plurality of stackable housing modules for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements stacked in a first spatial direction, in particular comprising at least one stackable housing module according to any one of the aspects of the invention relating to a stackable housing module as previously described, as well as any other aspect of the invention as described in this document. Such a further aspect of the invention comprises: an upper housing module comprising one or more first connection arrangements and / or connection modules, at least one intermediate housing module comprising at least one electronic element and comprising one or more second connection arrangements and / or connection modules, and a lower housing module comprising one or more third connection arrangements and / or connection modules.

[0014] Such connection arrangements and / or connection modules according to the further aspect of the invention, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, further comprise: at least one connecting and / or clamping element extending in the said first spatial direction, wherein such connecting and / or clamping elements are designed to engage with one another to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements extending in the first spatial direction.

[0015] In particular, such connection arrangements and / or connection modules may be included in a connection system according to any other aspect of the invention as described in this document.

[0016] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the aspects of the invention relating to a modular system as previously described, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, an upper housing module and / or a lower housing module are configured as covering housing modules for one or more stackable intermediate housing modules, and the connecting and / or clamping elements are configured to form a chain or a plurality of chains of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements extending from the upper housing module through the at least one intermediate housing module to the lower housing module in the first spatial direction.

[0017] According to a further aspect, the present invention provides a connection module or connection arrangement, particularly for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, especially for use in one of the aspects of the invention described above, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document. Such a further aspect of the invention comprises: at least one connecting and / or clamping element extending in a first spatial direction, wherein this connecting and / or clamping element is designed to engage with at least one further connecting and / or clamping element to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements extending in the first spatial direction, and a lever element and / or a housing element that interacts with the connecting and / or clamping element, in particular to effect a rotational movement of the connecting and / or clamping element.

[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connection module or connection arrangement, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, the connecting and / or clamping element can be floatingly mounted on the lever element and / or the housing element.

[0019] According to one aspect of the invention, a connecting and / or clamping element in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connecting module or a connecting arrangement, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, comprises at least one distal end - in particular a distal end in the first spatial direction - forming an engagement element, wherein this engagement element is configured to engage with an engagement element of at least one further connecting and / or clamping element of a further connecting arrangement and / or a further connecting module by means of a positive locking connection and / or by means of a force locking connection.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the aspects of the invention relating to a connection module or connection arrangement as previously described, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, such a module or connection arrangement further comprises: at least one guide element that interacts with a lever element and / or housing element and / or with a connecting and / or clamping element by means of at least one contoured interaction area, wherein such a contoured interaction area acts as a control cam element.

[0021] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connection module or connection arrangement, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, at least one contoured interaction area is designed to convert a rotational movement of a lever element and / or housing element and / or a connecting and / or clamping element into a translational movement of the lever element and / or housing element and / or the connecting and / or clamping element in the said first spatial direction.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connection module or connection arrangement, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, a connecting and / or clamping element is floatingly mounted on a lever element and / or housing element by means of a floating fastening arrangement which is contained in the connecting and / or clamping element and / or in the lever element and / or housing element.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, a lever element in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connection module or connection arrangement, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, comprises a lever arm and a lever housing which at least partially encloses at least one connection and / or clamping element.

[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connection module or connection arrangement, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, a connection arrangement and / or a connection module is configured to be detachably attached to at least one housing wall, in particular to a housing wall of a stackable housing module or a modular system, wherein in particular the connection arrangement and / or the connection module is configured to interact with at least one fastening element.

[0025] According to a further aspect of the invention, the present invention provides a connection system, in particular a connection system for modular electronic devices and / or modular electronic arrangements, especially for use in a plurality of stackable housing modules or in a modular system according to one of the aspects of the invention described above, as well as any other aspect of the invention as described in this document. Such a connection system according to the further aspect of the invention comprises connection arrangements and / or connection modules, in particular a connection arrangement and / or a connection module or a plurality of connection arrangements and / or connection modules according to a feature or combination of features of an aspect of the invention as described above, as well as any other aspect of the invention as described in this document.Such connection arrangements and / or connection modules include: at least one connecting and / or clamping element extending in a first spatial direction, wherein such connecting and / or clamping elements are designed to engage with one another to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements extending in the said first spatial direction.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connection system, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, connecting and / or clamping elements each comprise at least one distal end which forms an engagement element to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements, and at least one of the aforementioned connecting and / or clamping elements is floatingly mounted on a lever element and / or on a housing element.

[0027] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the aspects of the invention relating to a connection system as previously described, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, the connection arrangements and / or connection modules further comprise: at least one guide element that interacts with at least one lever element and / or housing element and / or with at least one connecting and / or clamping element by means of at least one contoured interaction area, wherein the contoured interaction area is designed to convert a rotational movement of such a lever element and / or housing element and / or such a connecting and / or clamping element into a translational movement of such a lever element and / or housing element and / or such a connecting and / or clamping element in the first spatial direction.

[0028] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connection system, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, a pre-tensioning and / or tensioning of a chain of connected connecting and / or tensioning elements in the first spatial direction can be carried out by means of mechanical pre-tensioning and / or tensioning means that interact with at least one end element of the chain of connected connecting and / or tensioning elements.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, in one of the previously described aspects of the invention relating to a connection system, as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, one or more of the connection arrangements and / or connection modules are configured to be detachably attached to at least one housing wall, in particular to a housing wall of a stackable housing module or a modular system, wherein in particular the detachably attachable connection arrangements and / or connection modules are designed to interact with at least one fastening element.

[0030] According to a further aspect, the present invention provides a use of a connection arrangement and / or a connection module and / or a connection system according to one of the previously described aspects of the invention as well as according to any other aspect of the invention as described in this document in a stackable housing module according to one of the previously described aspects of the invention as well as according to any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, in particular a use in a stackable housing module for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements and / or in a modular system comprising a plurality of stackable housing modules according to one of the previously described aspects of the invention as well as in any other aspect of the invention as described in this document, in particular a use in a modular system for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements.

[0031] The embodiments described above can be combined with one another as appropriate. Further possible embodiments, configurations, and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention described herein that are not explicitly mentioned. In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] For a more comprehensive understanding of the characteristics, properties, and technical features of the invention and its advantages, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following description with reference to the accompanying figures, in which the same reference numerals denote the same parts. The figures are generally not to scale.

[0033] The following is depicted in the attached figures: Fig. 1 a schematic view of a modular system of stacked, stackable housing modules according to an embodiment of the invention and a connection system comprising a plurality of first, second and third connection arrangements and / or connection modules comprising a chain of connecting and / or clamping elements extending in a first spatial direction; Fig. 2 a schematic perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a modular system, as in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. 3 A schematic top view of an embodiment of a stackable housing module, as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown; Fig. 4 A schematic view of an embodiment of a modular system as in Fig. Figures 1 to 3 show a more detailed representation of connection arrangements and / or connection modules according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a further development of the embodiment of a modular system as in Fig. 4 shown; Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c: a schematic view of a connection system according to Fig. 1, which provides a more detailed representation of a plurality of first, second and third connection arrangements and / or connection modules comprising a chain of connection and / or clamping elements extending in a first spatial direction Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b: a schematic view of a plurality of intermediate connection arrangements and / or connection modules of a connection system according to Fig. 1, which provides a more detailed representation of such a plurality of second intermediate connection arrangements and / or connection modules. Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b: a schematic view of a first connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to an embodiment of the invention, as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b and Fig. 6c shown; Fig. 9: a schematic view of a first connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to an embodiment as in Fig. 4, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 8a and Fig. 8b, which shows internal design details of such a first connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 10a: a schematic view of an open / unlocked state of a first connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to the embodiment as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b and Fig. 9 shown; Fig. 10b: a schematic view of a closed / fastened state of a first connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to the embodiment as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b and Fig. 9 shown; Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b: a schematic view of a first connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to the embodiment as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b, Fig. 9, Fig. 10a and Fig. 10b, in which the clamping and internal construction details of such a first connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to an embodiment of the invention are shown; Fig. 12a: a schematic view of an intermediate second connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to an embodiment of the invention, as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b shown; Fig. 12b: a schematic view of a lever element interacting with a connecting and / or clamping element according to an embodiment of the invention, which is contained in an intermediate second connecting arrangement and / or a connecting module as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b and Fig. 12a shown according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 13a: a schematic view of the main elements of a lever element and a connecting and / or clamping element as shown in Fig. 12b shown according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 13b: a schematic view of a lever element connected to a connecting and / or clamping element as in Fig. 13a shown interacts according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein internal design details of such a lever element and a connecting and / or clamping element according to an embodiment of the invention are shown; Fig. 14: A schematic partial exploded view of an intermediate second connection arrangement and / or connection module as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b and Fig. 12a shown according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 15a, Fig. 15b, Fig. 15c: a schematic view of opening / releasing an intermediate second connection arrangement and / or a connection module according to the embodiment as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b, Fig. 12a and Fig. 14 shown; Fig. 16: a schematic view of first and second connecting and / or clamping elements such as Fig. 1, Fig. 6a and Fig. 6c shown, which are in engagement with each other according to an embodiment of the invention to form parts of a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b, Fig. 17c: a schematic view of intermediate second connecting and / or clamping elements as in Fig. 1, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6c and Fig. 7a shown, which are in engagement with each other according to an embodiment of the invention to form parts of a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 18a, Fig. 18b: a schematic view of distal ends of connecting and / or clamping elements forming engagement elements that engage with one another to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements according to an embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b, Fig. 17c shows construction details of such engaging connecting and / or clamping elements; Fig. : a schematic view of a third connection arrangement and / or a third connection module.

[0034] It is understood that common and / or well-known elements that may be useful or necessary in a commercially viable embodiment are not necessarily shown in the figures, in order to allow for a more abstract representation of the embodiments. The elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale with respect to one another. It is understood that certain actions and / or steps in an embodiment of a method may be described or illustrated in a particular sequence, while those skilled in the art understand that such specificity with respect to the sequence is not actually required. It is also understood that the terms and expressions used in this specification have the usual meanings that such terms and expressions have in relation to the relevant fields of technology, except where specific meanings are set forth elsewhere herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0035] With reference to Fig. Figure 1 of the drawings shows a modular system 1 according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the modular system 1 comprises a plurality of stacked stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4 for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements. The stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4 are stacked in a first spatial direction x. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first spatial direction x is a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a plane or planes defined by the lateral extent of one or more stacked stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4. In the top view of an embodiment of a stackable housing module 3, as shown in Figure 1, the first spatial direction x is a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a plane or planes defined by the lateral extent of one or more stacked stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4. Fig. Figure 3 shows a top view of such a plane and the lateral extent of such a stackable housing module 3.

[0036] The first spatial direction x can also extend in another direction, for example in a direction in a lateral extension of one or more stacked stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4, that is, in a direction that lies in a plane defined by the lateral extension of one or more stacked stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4, for example in a plane as in Fig. 3 shown. In this case, the arrangement can alternatively or additionally provide for a connection of stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4 next to each other, i.e. side by side.

[0037] In the modular system 1 according to the in Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 1 comprises an upper housing module 2, first connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21. Several intermediate housing modules 3 are provided, which have second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31, for mechanically connecting the intermediate housing modules 3 to each other and / or for mechanically connecting one intermediate housing module 3 or several stacked intermediate housing modules 3 to a aforementioned upper housing module 2 and to a lower housing module 4.

[0038] At least one or more or all of the intermediate housing modules 3 comprise at least one electronic element 5, as shown in Fig. 3 shown. Such intermediate housing modules 3, which comprise at least one electronic element 5, each comprise one or more electrical interface elements 7 arranged on or in one or more housing walls 6, as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 3 shown. The one or more electrical interface elements 7 can be arranged on at least one outer surface of one or more housing walls 6 of a respective intermediate housing module 3 and can be designed for the electrical connection of the respective electronic element 5 or several electronic elements 5.

[0039] Fig. Figure 1 of the drawings further shows a lower housing module 4 comprising third connection arrangements and / or connection modules 41 for the mechanical connection of an intermediate housing module 3 or several stacked intermediate housing modules 3 to such a lower housing module 4.

[0040] The aforementioned upper housing module 2 and / or lower housing module 4 can be configured as covering housing modules for one or more stackable intermediate housing modules 3, i.e., they do not include any electronic elements 5. However, they can have electrical interface elements 7 arranged on at least one outer surface of the upper housing module 2 and / or lower housing module 4, configured for electrically connecting the respective electronic element 5 or multiple electronic elements 5 of an intermediate housing module 3 or multiple stacked intermediate housing modules 3.The aforementioned upper housing module 2 and / or lower housing module 4, which are designed as covering housing modules for one or more stackable intermediate housing modules 3, make it possible to design the one intermediate housing module 3 or several stacked intermediate housing modules 3 without their own individual lid and cover elements; that is, the housing of the one or more stackable intermediate housing modules 3 comprises only side wall elements, but no upper and lower cover elements. According to the invention, the upper housing module 2 and / or the lower housing module 4 can be designed as a removable upper housing module 2 and / or lower housing module 4 that is detachable from the one or more intermediate housing modules 3.However, it is also within the scope of the present invention that the upper housing module 2 and / or the lower housing module 4 can be designed as an integral part of one or more intermediate housing modules 3.

[0041] It is also possible within the scope of the present invention that said upper housing module 2 and / or the lower housing module 4 may have electrical interface elements 7 which are arranged on at least one outer surface of the upper housing module 2 and / or the lower housing module 4, and / or the upper housing module 2 and / or the lower housing module 4 may alternatively or additionally comprise electronic elements 5, in particular electronic elements 5 similar to the electronic elements 5 of the intermediate housing module(s) 3, or electronic elements 5 different from the electronic elements 5 of the intermediate housing module(s) 3, such as power supply elements, data storage / data acquisition elements, etc.

[0042] Fig. Figure 1 also schematically shows the main functional elements of an embodiment of a connection system which can be used in the modular system 1 according to the embodiment as shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows that such a connection system can also be used in other applications and use cases where modules, housings, or other hardware elements need to be connected and / or fastened together. The connection system mentioned is shown in Figure 1. Fig. Figure 1 comprises a plurality of connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41, wherein each of the connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 comprises at least one connection and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 extending in the first spatial direction x, and such a connection and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 engages with at least one further connection and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43, wherein all of these together form a chain of positively connected and / or force-connected connection and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 extending in the first spatial direction x.

[0043] The aforementioned connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 according to Fig. 1 comprising at least one distal end forming an engagement element 27, 42, 51, 52, wherein the engagement element 27, 42, 51, 52 is configured to engage with an engagement element 27, 42, 51, 52 of at least one further connecting and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 of a further connecting arrangement and / or connecting module 21, 31, 41 by means of a positive-locking connection and / or by means of a force-locking connection, as shown in Fig. 1 schematically represented.

[0044] Fig. Figure 2 of the drawings shows a schematic perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a modular system as in Fig. 1 shown. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment the upper housing module 2, the one or more intermediate housing modules 3, and the lower housing module 4 each essentially have the shape of a cuboid. As shown in the top view of Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the shape of the housing modules 2, 3, 4 may deviate slightly from a cuboid shape, since in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the cross-sectional plane of the housing module 3 does not have a perfect rectangular shape, since the corners of the rectangle are chamfered. Other shapes of such housing modules 2, 3, 4 are also possible within the scope of the present invention, such as triangular, polygonal, oval, or any other suitable shape adapted to the respective application.

[0045] In the embodiment according to Fig. 2. The connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 of the upper housing module 2, of one or more intermediate housing modules 3, and of the lower housing module 4 are arranged in the corners of the respective housing modules 2, 3, 4. A specific exemplary arrangement of connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 of a housing module 3 in the corners of the respective housing module 3 is shown in Fig. 3 schematically represented. According to the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, such connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 are provided in all four corners of a substantially cuboid housing module 3 and attached to housing walls 6 of the housing module. However, the connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 can also be arranged in other areas of the respective stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4, such as at a suitable location within one or more of the housing walls 6 of the stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4, or in the center of one or more housing walls 6 of the stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4.

[0046] The connection assemblies and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 can be designed as integral components of the housings of the stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4. Alternatively, they can be designed as removable connection modules 21, 31, 41 that can be removed from the stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4 and exchanged or replaced by new or other removable connection modules 21, 31, 41. A specific embodiment of such removable connection modules 21, 31, 41 is explained in more detail below.

[0047] An expert will easily understand that the Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. A general and schematic representation of a connection system for modular electronic devices and / or modular electronic arrangements, in particular for use in a plurality of stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4 and / or in a modular system 1. The connection system comprises connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41, in particular a plurality of connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41, as shown in Figure 3. Fig. 1 to Fig. Figure 3 shows specific embodiments and possible features of such connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41, which are shown and described in more detail with reference to the following figures of the drawings. Such connection systems and / or connection arrangements and / or connection modules can also be used in other applications and use cases where modules, housings, or other hardware elements are to be connected and / or fastened together.

[0048] Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a modular system 1 such as Fig. Figures 1 to 3 show a more detailed representation of a specific embodiment of connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 of stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4 according to an embodiment of the invention, which is described in more detail in the following description and with reference to further accompanying figures.

[0049] Fig. Figure 4 shows a particular embodiment in more detail, comprising one of each of the stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4 and connection assemblies and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 of the first, second and third types, which are attached to the stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4, wherein these connection assemblies and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 are in a connected state. Each of the connection assemblies and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 can be attached to at least one housing wall 6, in particular detachably attached to at least one housing wall 6 by means of at least one fastening element 30, as shown in more detail in the following figures.

[0050] Fig. Figure 5 shows a specific further development of the embodiment of Fig. 4, which is shown in an exploded view and comprises several stackable intermediate housing modules 3 and several corresponding connection assemblies and / or connection modules 31 attached to each of the intermediate housing modules 3 - wherein in Fig. 5 the connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 are shown in the unconnected state.

[0051] In Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 all such connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 are arranged in corner areas of the stackable housing modules 2, 3, 4 shown.

[0052] As in the following Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. As shown in more detail in Figure 6c of the drawings, such connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 according to a particular embodiment of the invention comprise connection and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 extending in the first spatial direction x when the connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 are attached to the housing modules 2, 3, 4 and / or when the connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 are mechanically connected to one another by means of the connection and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43. The connection and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 are designed to engage with one another to form a chain of positively connected, i.e., positively connected and / or force-connected, i.e., force-connected, connection and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43. form a system that extends in the first spatial direction x. As can be seen from... Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 in conjunction with the following Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. As can be seen from 6c, the aforementioned connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 are designed to form a chain or a plurality of chains of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43, which extend from the upper housing module 2 via the at least one intermediate housing module 3 to the lower housing module 4 in the first spatial direction x.

[0053] Fig. Figure 6a schematically shows a simplified representation of an embodiment of a connection system as already described in Figure 6a. Fig. 1 shown. That in Fig. The connection system 6a shown in Figure 6a has a plurality of connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41, each of the connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 comprising at least one connection and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 extending in the first spatial direction x, wherein such a connection and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 engages with at least one further connection and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43, all of which together form a chain of positively connected and / or force-connected connection and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 extending in the first spatial direction x.

[0054] Fig. Figure 6b shows a more detailed representation of the aforementioned plurality of first, second, and third connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 extending in a first spatial direction x, wherein these first, second, and third connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 comprise a chain of connection and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43, as shown in Fig. 6c is shown in more detail.

[0055] Fig. Figure 6c shows in more detail the aforementioned chain of connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43, which are contained in the aforementioned first, second and third connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41, wherein each connecting and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 engages with at least one further connecting and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 and all of these together form a chain of positively connected and / or force-connected connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43, which extends in the first spatial direction x.

[0056] The Fig. 6b and Fig. 6c represents only one possible specific embodiment of a connection system according to Fig. 6a or Fig. 1. A person skilled in the art will readily understand that the shape and / or size and / or design details of connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41, as well as the number of connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41, in particular the number of intermediate second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31, vary and differ from the specific embodiment according to Fig. 6b and Fig. 6c may differ.

[0057] The connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 according to the embodiment of the Fig. 1, Fig. 6a and Fig. 6c comprise at least one distal end forming an engagement element 27, 42, 51, 52, wherein such an engagement element 27, 42, 51, 52 is configured to engage with an engagement element 27, 42, 51, 52 of at least one further connecting and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 of a further connecting arrangement and / or connecting module 21, 31, 41 by means of a positive-locking connection and / or by means of a force-locking connection, as schematically shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 6a is shown and how in more detail in a possible special embodiment of Fig. 6c shown.

[0058] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6c and in the following figures, and as described in more detail with reference to the individual figures, the connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 according to a particular embodiment of the invention each comprise a lever element 22, 32 which interacts with a connection and / or clamping element 23, 33 to effect, in particular, a rotational movement of the connection and / or clamping element 23, 33. In particular, one or more or all of the connection and / or clamping elements 23, 33 can be floatingly mounted on a respective lever element 22, 32.

[0059] Fig. Figure 7a shows a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of the invention, comprising a plurality of intermediate second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 of a connection system according to Fig. 1 or according to Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b and Fig. 6c, wherein such a plurality of intermediate second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 can be arranged between first and third connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 41, all of which extend together in a first spatial direction x, and the second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 comprise an (intermediate) chain of connection and / or clamping elements 33 extending in a first spatial direction x.

[0060] Fig. Figure 7b shows a more detailed representation of the alternative embodiment of the invention according to Fig. 7a. Each of the intermediate second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 of a connection system according to Fig. 1 or Fig. 7a is attached to at least one housing wall 6, in particular to at least one housing wall 6 of a stackable housing module according to Fig. 1 to 5. In particular, each of the intermediate connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 can be detachably attached to at least one housing wall 6, in particular by means of at least one fastening element 30, as shown in more detail in the following figures.

[0061] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7b, each of the intermediate second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 according to a particular embodiment of the invention comprises a lever element 32 that interacts with a connection and / or clamping element 33, as shown in more detail in the following figures. Each of the intermediate second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 according to a particular embodiment of the invention further comprises at least one guide element 34 that interacts with a lever element 32 and / or a connection and / or clamping element 33 by means of at least one contoured interaction area 56, as shown in more detail in the following figures.Likewise, further connection arrangements and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 can also comprise at least one guide element 24, 34 which interacts with a lever element 22, 32 and / or a connecting and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43 by means of at least one contoured interaction area 56, as shown in more detail in the following figures.

[0062] The Fig. 8a, Fig. Figure 8b shows a schematic view of a first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 according to a particular embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b and Fig. 6c shown. The first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 is attached to at least one housing wall 6, in particular to at least one housing wall 6 of a stackable housing module according to the Fig. 1 to 5. In particular, the first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 can be detachably attached to at least one housing wall 6, in particular by means of at least one fastening element 30, as shown in the Fig. 8b, Fig. 10a and Fig. Figure 10b shows two fastening elements 30. In particular, at least one such fastening element 30 can be configured for a positive-locking connection and / or a force-locking connection. Similar fastening elements 30 can be provided for the detachable fastening of a plurality or of each further connection arrangement and / or connection modules 21, 31, 41 to at least one housing wall 6.

[0063] The first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 according to the specific embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 8a and Fig. Figure 8b shows a first lever element 22 that interacts with a first connecting and / or clamping element 23, as shown in more detail in the following figures. The connecting arrangement and / or the connecting module 21 according to the specific embodiment of the invention further comprises at least one guide element 24 that interacts with the lever element 22 and / or the connecting and / or clamping element 23 by means of at least one contoured interaction area 56, as shown in more detail in the following figures. Fig. 8a and Fig. 8b as well as in Fig. Figure 9 shows a guide element 24 which interacts with the lever element 22 and / or the connecting and / or clamping element 23.

[0064] The connecting and / or clamping element 23 according to the embodiment of the Fig. 8a and Fig. 8b comprises a distal end which forms an engagement element 27, wherein such an engagement element 27 is configured to engage with an engagement element 42, 51, 52 of at least one further connecting and / or clamping element 33, 43 of a further connecting arrangement and / or connecting module 31, 41 by means of a positive-locking connection and / or by means of a force-locking connection. The in Fig. 8a and Fig. The lever element 22 shown in Figure 8b comprises a first lever arm 25 and a first lever housing 26, which at least partially encloses the connecting and / or clamping element 23.

[0065] The in the Fig. 8a to Fig. 11b, the first lever housing 26, shown in more detail, has – in the special embodiment of the Fig. 8a to Fig. 11b - a substantially cylindrical shape and at least partially encloses the aforementioned connecting and / or clamping element 23, which - in the specific embodiment of the Fig. 8a to Fig. 11b - has a substantially cylindrical shape in its central part. The distal end of the first connecting and / or clamping element 23 is, in the special embodiment of Fig. 8a to Fig. 11b configured as an essentially hook-shaped engagement element 27, which is designed to engage with a further engagement element 42, 51, 52 - in this particular embodiment essentially hook-shaped engagement elements 42, 51, 52 - of at least one further connecting and / or clamping element 33, 43.

[0066] Fig. Figure 9 provides a schematic view of the first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 according to the embodiment as shown in Fig. 8a and Fig. Figure 8b shows internal construction details of such a first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 according to the aforementioned embodiment of the invention. The connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 according to the embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b and Fig. Figure 9 shows mechanical pre-tensioning and / or clamping means 28, 29, which interact with the connecting and / or clamping element 23, which is configured to form an end element of the chain of connected connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43, as shown in the aforementioned figures. The mechanical pre-tensioning and / or clamping means 28, 29 are configured to provide pre-tensioning and / or clamping of the chain of connected connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 in the first spatial direction x, as shown in the aforementioned figures. In the specific embodiment according to the Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b and Fig. 9 The mechanical preloading and / or clamping means 28, 29 are configured as a clamping screw 28, which mechanically interacts with a clamping thread 29 provided in a distal recess of the aforementioned connecting and / or clamping element 23, as shown in Fig. 9 shown schematically.

[0067] Fig. 10a and Fig. Figure 10b schematically shows an open or released state of a first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 as well as a closed or fastened state of the said first connection arrangement and / or the first connection module 21. Fig. 11a and Fig. Figure 11b shows the clamping and internal construction details of such a first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 according to the aforementioned embodiment of the invention. Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b and Fig. 9.

[0068] Fig. 10a and Fig. Figure 10b schematically shows the opening / unlocking of a first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 and a closed / fastened state of the first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 by moving the lever arm 25, which causes a rotational movement of the connection and / or clamping element 23 as shown in Fig. 10a and Fig. 10b, and / or a rotational movement of the lever housing 26 is effected, which at least partially encloses the connecting and / or clamping element 23, and which in turn causes a rotational movement of the connecting and / or clamping element 23, as explained in more detail in the following figures. In particular, the guide element 24 can be configured to interact with the aforementioned lever element 22 and / or the aforementioned connecting and / or clamping element 23 by means of at least one contoured interaction area 56 (in Fig. 10a and Fig. 10b not explicitly shown), which is designed to convert a rotational movement of the lever element 22 and / or the connecting and / or clamping element 23 into a translational movement of the lever element 22 and / or the connecting and / or clamping element 23 in the first spatial direction x.

[0069] Fig. 11a and Fig. Figure 11b shows the clamping and internal construction details of such a first connection arrangement and / or connection module 21 according to the aforementioned embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b and Fig. Figure 9 shows that mechanical preloading and / or clamping means 28, 29 interact with the connecting and / or clamping element 23. The mechanical preloading and / or clamping means 28, 29 are configured as a clamping screw 28, which mechanically interacts with a clamping thread 29 provided in a recess at a first, here upper distal end of the aforementioned connecting and / or clamping element 23, as already shown in and described with reference to Fig. 9. By turning the clamping screw 28, this clamping screw 28 is driven deeper into the clamping thread 29, thereby raising the connecting and / or clamping element 23 into the arrangement and / or connecting module 21 in the first spatial direction x. A second, here lower distal end of the connecting and / or clamping element 23, which forms an engagement element 27, is drawn further into the arrangement and / or connecting module 21, and if such a connecting and / or clamping element 23 is part of a chain of connected connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 as shown in the aforementioned figures, i.e.When the engagement element 27 is engaged with an engagement element 42, 51, 52, or with at least one further connecting and / or clamping element 33, 43, or with one or more further connecting arrangements and / or connecting modules 31, 41, then the chain of connected connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 is tensioned by turning the clamping screw 28 and driving this clamping screw 28 deeper into the clamping thread 29. Other shapes, designs, and functionalities of the mechanical pre-tensioning and / or clamping devices 28, 29 are also possible, which differ from the shapes and designs shown in the accompanying figures.

[0070] Fig. Figure 12a shows a schematic view of an intermediate second connection arrangement and / or connection module 31 according to an embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b shows which can be the only intermediate second connection arrangement and / or connection module 31 as in the embodiment according to the Fig. 4, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b and Fig. 6c shown, or it can be one of a plurality of intermediate second connection arrangements and / or connection modules 31 as in the embodiment according to the Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b shown. One or more of the second connection arrangement(s) and / or connection module(s) 31 is / are attached to at least one housing wall 6, in particular to at least one housing wall 6 of a stackable housing module according to the Fig. 1 to 5, fastened. In particular, the second connection arrangement(s) and / or connection module(s) 31 can be detachably fastened to at least one housing wall 6, in particular by means of at least one fastening element 30, as shown in Fig. Figure 12a shows two fastening elements 30. In particular, at least one such fastening element 30 can be configured for a positive-locking connection and / or a force-locking connection.

[0071] The second connection arrangement and / or connection module 31 according to the specific embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 12a and Fig. Figure 12b shows a second lever element 32 that interacts with a second connecting and / or clamping element 33 which extends in the first spatial direction x, as shown in more detail in the following figures. The second connecting arrangement and / or connecting module 31 according to the aforementioned specific embodiment of the invention further comprises at least one guide element 34 that interacts with the second lever element 32 and / or the aforementioned connecting and / or clamping element 33 by means of at least one contoured interaction area 56, as shown in more detail in the following figures. Fig. Figure 12a and the following figures show two guide elements 34 which interact with the aforementioned lever element 32 and / or the aforementioned connecting and / or clamping element 33. The Fig. 12a and Fig. The second lever element 32 shown in Figure 12b comprises a second lever arm 35 and a second lever housing 36, which at least partially encloses the second connecting and / or clamping element 33. The distal ends of the second connecting and / or clamping element 33 each form an engagement element 51, 52, which is configured for engagement with a further engagement element 27, 42, 51, 52 of at least one further connecting and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43.

[0072] Fig. Figure 12b shows a schematic view of the said second lever element 32 which interacts with the said second connecting and / or clamping element 33 according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein both elements are included in the second connecting arrangement and / or the second connecting module 31 as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b and Fig. 12a shown according to an embodiment of the invention. The second lever element 32 which is in Fig. Figure 12b, shown in more detail, comprises a second lever arm 35 and a second lever housing 36, which – in the specific embodiment of Fig. 12b - has a substantially cylindrical shape and at least partially encloses the connecting and / or clamping element 33, which - in the specific embodiment of Fig. 12b - has a substantially cylindrical shape in its central part. The distal ends of the second connecting and / or clamping element 33 each form an engagement element 51, 52 - in the specific embodiment of Fig. 12b essentially hook-shaped engagement elements 51, 52, each designed for engagement with a further engagement element 27, 42, 51, 52 - in a special embodiment essentially hook-shaped engagement elements 27, 42, 51, 52 - at least one further connecting and / or clamping element 23, 33, 43. Other shapes, designs and functionalities of the engagement elements 27, 42, 51, 52 are also possible, which differ from the shapes and designs shown in the accompanying figures.

[0073] Fig. Figure 13a shows a schematic view of the main elements of a second lever element 32 and a second connecting and / or clamping element 33 as shown in Fig. 12b shown according to an embodiment of the invention, and Fig. Figure 13b shows a schematic view of the aforementioned second lever element 32, which interacts with the aforementioned second connecting and / or clamping element 33 as shown in Fig. 13a shown according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein internal design details of such a second lever element 32 and second connecting and / or clamping element 33 are shown according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0074] According to the embodiment of the invention as described in the Fig. 13a and Fig. As shown in Figure 13b, in the aforementioned second connection module or connection arrangement 31, the second connection and / or clamping element 33 is floatingly mounted on the second lever element 32 by means of a floating bearing arrangement 37, 54, which is included in the connection and / or clamping element 33 and / or in the lever element 32. In a special embodiment, the second connection and / or clamping element 33 is floatingly mounted on the second lever element 32 by means of a connection and / or locking element 37, which is fixedly attached either to the second connection and / or clamping element 33 or to the second lever element 32 and is movable with respect to the other, either the second connection and / or clamping element 33 or the lever element 32. In the special embodiment as shown in Fig. 13a and Fig. As shown in Figure 13b, the second connecting and / or clamping element 33 is floatingly mounted on the second lever element 32 by means of a connecting and / or locking element 37 which is fixedly attached to the second lever element 32, in particular to the second lever housing 36, wherein the connecting and / or locking element 37 is movable with respect to the second connecting and / or clamping element 33 in a connecting and / or clamping element recess 54 which is provided in the second connecting and / or clamping element 33, as shown in Fig. Figure 13a shows that the connecting and / or locking element 37 can be fixedly connected to the second lever element 32 in recesses 38 provided in the second lever housing 36. Alternative embodiments for the floating mounting of the second connecting and / or clamping element 33 on the second lever element 32 are also possible and are within the scope of the invention, such as fastening by means of a tongue and groove connection.

[0075] Fig. Figure 14 shows a schematic partial exploded view of an intermediate second connection arrangement and / or connection module 31 as in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b and Fig. Figure 12a shows an embodiment of the invention. At least one guide element 34, which interacts with the second lever element 32 and / or the connecting and / or clamping element 33, comprises at least one contoured interaction area 56, such that the at least one contoured interaction area 56 acts as a control cam element 57, 58. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the second lever element 32, in particular the second lever housing 36, comprises at least one further contoured interaction area 56, which acts as a control cam element 57, 58.

[0076] In the specific embodiment of Fig. 14 The second lever housing 36 has two spatially spaced contoured interaction areas 56, i.e., contoured distal ends, each of which acts as a control cam element 57. In the specific embodiment of Fig. 14 Two guide elements 34 are provided in the second connection arrangement and / or connection module 31, each of the two guide elements 34 comprising a contoured area 56 which is configured as a contoured interaction recess that acts as a control cam counter element 58.

[0077] Fig. 15a, Fig. 15b and Fig. Figure 15c shows a schematic view of opening / releasing an intermediate second connection arrangement and / or connection module 31 according to the embodiment as shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b, Fig. 6c, Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b, Fig. 12a and Fig. Figure 14 shows that when the second lever 32 is moved, causing a rotational movement of the second lever element 32 from a 0° position through a 45° position to a 90° position, the interaction of the contoured interaction areas 56, in particular the contoured distal ends of the second lever housing 36 – each acting as a control cam element 57 – with the contoured interaction recesses of the two guide elements 34, which act as a control cam counter element 58, leads to a translational movement of the second connecting and / or clamping element 33 in the aforementioned first spatial direction x, in the embodiment of the Fig. 15a, Fig. 15b and Fig. 15c, 15a, 15b and 15c to a translational downward movement of the second connecting and / or clamping element 33 in negative first spatial direction x.

[0078] Fig. Figure 16 shows a schematic view of a first connecting and / or clamping element 23 and a second connecting and / or clamping element 33 as in Fig. 1, Fig. 6a and Fig. Figure 6c shows the elements which, according to one embodiment of the invention, engage with one another to form parts of a chain of positively connected and / or force-fit connected connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 according to one embodiment of the invention. In the specific embodiment according to Fig. 16 The essentially hook-shaped distal ends, which form engagement elements 27, 51, 52 of the first connecting and / or clamping element 23 and the second connecting and / or clamping element 33, engage in a positive-locking connection and simultaneously – in a tensioned state of the connection – in a force-locking connection of the connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, in order to form an end of a chain of positively locked and / or force-locking connected connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43, as shown in Fig. 1, 6a to 6c, 7a and 7b shown.

[0079] Fig. Figure 16 again shows the clamping thread 29, which is formed as a recess in the first connecting and / or clamping element 23, at a first distal end of the first connecting and / or clamping element 23 and is designed to interact with a clamping screw 28, as already described above in relation to the Fig. 9, Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b described.

[0080] Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b and Fig. Figure 17c shows a schematic view of intermediate second connecting and / or clamping elements 33 according to Fig. 1, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6c and Fig. 7a, which according to an embodiment of the invention engage with each other to form parts of a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b and Fig. Figure 17c shows a schematic representation of releasing such intermediate second connecting and / or clamping elements 33 by moving one of the second lever elements 32, in the special embodiment of the Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b and Fig. 17c by moving the upper second lever elements 32, thereby causing a rotational movement of the upper second connecting and / or clamping element 33 relative to the lower second connecting and / or clamping element 33. Such a rotational movement of the upper second connecting and / or clamping element 33 relative to the lower second connecting and / or clamping element 33 leads to a release of the respective—in particular essentially hook-shaped—distal ends, configured as engagement elements 51, 52 of the upper second connecting and / or clamping element 33 and the lower second connecting and / or clamping element 33, as shown in the Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b and Fig. 17c shown. The rotational movement of the upper second connecting and / or clamping element 33 relative to the lower second connecting and / or clamping element 33 thus leads to the release of a positive-locking connection and simultaneously a force-locking connection of the aforementioned second connecting and / or clamping elements 33.

[0081] Fig. 18a and Fig. Figure 18b shows a detailed schematic view of distal ends configured as engagement elements 51, 52 of connecting and / or clamping elements 33 as in Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b, Fig. Figure 17c shows that these distal ends 51, 52 form engagement elements 51, 52 which engage with each other to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 according to an embodiment of the invention as shown in Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b, Fig. Figure 17c shows how to form the structure, showing construction details of such interlocking connecting and / or clamping elements. Fig. 18a and Fig. Figure 18b shows two connecting and / or clamping elements 33 in an overall view and in a more detailed “zoomed” partial view, which shows the distal ends – in particular the essentially hook-shaped ones – forming the engagement elements 51, 52, which engage with each other to form a positive locking connection and / or a force locking connection.

[0082] Fig. Figure 18a shows a released state of a positive-locking connection and - simultaneously - a force-locking connection of two adjacent second connecting and / or clamping elements 33. Fig. Figure 18b shows an engagement state of a positive-locking connection and - simultaneously - a force-locking connection of the second connecting and / or clamping elements 33, as already described in relation to Fig. 17a, Fig. 17b, Fig. described in 17c.

[0083] Fig. 18a and Fig. Figure 18b further shows a connecting and / or clamping element recess 54, which is provided in every second connecting and / or clamping element 33, as already shown in and described with reference to Fig. 13a and Fig. 13b.

[0084] Fig. Figure 19 shows a schematic view of a third connection arrangement and / or connection module 41. The third connection arrangement and / or connection module 41 according to the embodiment of Fig. 19 does not include any moving parts, such as levers. The third connection arrangement and / or connection module 41 according to the embodiment of Fig. 19 is attached to at least one housing wall 6, in particular to at least one housing wall 6 of a stackable housing module according to the Fig. 1 to 5. In particular, the third connection arrangement and / or connection module 41 can be detachably attached to at least one housing wall 6, in particular by means of at least one fastening element 30, as shown in Fig. Figure 19 shows two fastening elements 30. In particular, at least one such fastening element 30 can be configured for a positive-locking connection and / or a force-locking connection.

[0085] The lower third connection arrangement and / or connection module 41 according to the embodiment of Fig. 19 comprises a lower third attachment element 44, which is configured to interact with the at least one fastening element 30. The lower third connection arrangement and / or connection module 41 according to the embodiment of Fig.19 further comprises a lower third connecting and / or clamping element 43, wherein the lower third connecting and / or clamping element 43 comprises a lower third engagement element 42, configured as a third hook-shaped distal end 42 and designed to cooperate and engage with further engagement elements 27, 51, 52 as previously described, in order to form a chain of positively connected and / or force-locked connecting and / or clamping elements 23, 33, 43 according to the previously described embodiments of the invention.

[0086] Although specific embodiments of the invention are presented and described herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that a multitude of alternative and / or equivalent implementations exist. It should be noted that the exemplary embodiment or embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration in any way. Rather, the foregoing summary and detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a practical guide to implementing at least one exemplary embodiment. It is understood that various modifications may be made to the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without deviating from the scope set forth in the appended claims and their legally valid equivalents.In general, this application is intended to cover all adaptations or variations of the specific embodiments discussed herein.

[0087] It should also be noted that in this document, the terms "comprise," "comprehensive," "include," "containing," "containing," "having," "having," and any variations thereof are intended to be understood in a comprehensive (i.e., non-exclusive) sense, such that the process, procedure, device, arrangement, or system described herein is not limited to the features, parts, elements, or steps mentioned, but may also include other elements, features, parts, or steps not explicitly listed or inherent in the process, procedure, subject matter, or arrangement. Furthermore, the terms "a" and "an" used herein are to be understood as meaning one or more unless expressly stated otherwise. In addition, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used interchangeably.They are used merely as designations and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects or to establish a specific ranking of their importance. LIST OF REFERENCE MARKS 1 modular system 2 upper housing module 3 intermediate housing module 4 lower housing module 5 Electronic element 6 Housing wall 7 electrical interface element 21 First connection arrangement / connection module 22 first lever element 23 first connecting and / or clamping element 24 first guide element 25 first lever arm 26 first lever housing 27 upper engagement element 28 clamping screw 29 clamping threads 30 Fastening element 31 second connection arrangement / connection module 32 second lever element 33 second connecting and / or clamping element 34 second guide element 35 second lever arm 36 second lever housing 37 internal connecting and securing element 38 Exclusion 41 third connection arrangement / connection module 42 third intervention element / third hook-shaped distal end 43 third connecting and / or clamping element 44 third guide or attachment element 51 first intervention element 52 second intervention element 54 Connection and / or clamping element recess 56 Interaction area 57 Control cam element 58 Control curve counter-element X first spatial direction QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] 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

[0000] DE 20 2010 013 994 U1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, in particular for electronic amplifier arrangements, which is stackable in at least one first spatial direction (x) relative to the housing module, comprising: one or a plurality of connecting arrangements and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41), in particular connecting arrangements and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) according to one of claims 9 to 16, wherein one or a plurality of or each of the connecting assemblies and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) comprises: at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) extending in said first spatial direction (x), wherein this connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) is designed to be brought into engagement with at least one further connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43), to form a chain of positively connected and / or non-positively connected connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) which extends in the first spatial direction (x). [2] Stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) according to claim 1, wherein one or a plurality of or each of the connecting assemblies and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) comprises: at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) comprising at least one distal end which forms an engagement element (27, 42, 51, 52), wherein such an engagement element (27, 42, 51, 52) is designed to be brought into engagement with an engagement element (27, 42, 51, 52) of at least one further connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) of a further connecting arrangement and / or of a further connecting module (21, 31, 41) by means of a positive connection and / or by means of a non-positive connection. [3] Stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a lever element (22, 32) which cooperates with at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43), in particular to effect a rotational movement of the at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43), wherein the at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) is floatingly mounted on the lever element (22, 32). [4] Stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one or a plurality of or each of the connecting assemblies and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) further comprises: at least one guide element (24, 34) which interacts with a lever element (22, 32) and / or a connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) by means of at least one contoured interaction area (56), wherein such at least one contoured interaction region (56) acts as a control cam element (57, 58). [5] Stackable housing module according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one contoured interaction region (56) is designed to convert a rotational movement of a lever element (22, 32) and / or a connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) into a translational movement of the lever element (22, 32, 43) and / or the connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33) in the first spatial direction (x). [6] Stackable housing module according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one or a plurality of or each of the connecting arrangements and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) are detachably attached to at least one housing wall (6) of the stackable housing module, in particular by means of at least one fastening element (30) which is configured for a positive connection and / or a non-positive connection. [7] Modular system (1) comprising a plurality of stackable housing modules (2, 3, 4) for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, which are stacked in a first spatial direction (x), in particular comprising at least one stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: an upper housing module (2) comprising one or a plurality of first connection assemblies and / or connection modules (21); at least one intermediate housing module (3) comprising at least one electronic element (5) and comprising one or a plurality of second connection arrangements and / or connection modules (31); and a lower housing module (4) comprising one or a plurality of third connection arrangements and / or connection modules (41); wherein such connecting arrangements and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) further comprise: at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) extending in said first spatial direction (x); wherein such connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) are designed to engage with one another to form a chain of positively connected and / or non-positively connected connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) extending in the first spatial direction (x), in particular such aforementioned connecting arrangements and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) which are contained in a connecting system according to one of claims 17 to 20. [8] Modular system (1) according to claim 7, wherein: the upper housing module (2) and / or the lower housing module (4) are designed as covering housing modules for one or a plurality of stackable intermediate housing modules (3); and the connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) are designed to form a chain or a plurality of chains of positively connected and / or non-positively connected connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) which extend from the upper housing module (2) via the at least one intermediate housing module (3) to the lower housing module (4) in the first spatial direction (x). [9] Connection module or connection arrangement (21, 31, 41), in particular for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, in particular for use in a stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) or in a modular system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, comprehensive: at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) extending in a first spatial direction (x), wherein this connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) is designed to be brought into engagement with at least one further connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43), to form a chain of positively connected and / or non-positively connected connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) which extends in the first spatial direction (x) and a lever element (22, 32) and / or a housing element (26, 36) which cooperates with the connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43), in particular to effect a rotational movement of the connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43). [10] Connection module or connection arrangement (21, 31, 41) according to claim 9, wherein the connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) is floatingly mounted on the lever element (22, 32) and / or housing element (26, 36). [11] Connection module or connection arrangement (21, 31, 41) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) comprises at least one distal end which forms an engagement element (27, 42, 51, 52), wherein this engagement element (27, 42, 51, 52) is designed to be brought into engagement with an engagement element (27, 42, 51, 52) of at least one further connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) of a further connecting arrangement and / or of a further connecting module (21, 31, 41) by means of a positive connection and / or by means of a non-positive connection. [12] Connection module or connection arrangement (21, 31, 41) according to one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising: at least one guide element (24, 34) which interacts with the lever element (22, 32) and / or the housing element (26, 36) and / or with the connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) by means of at least one contoured interaction area (56), wherein such a contoured interaction region (56) acts as a control cam element (57, 58). [13] Connection module or connection arrangement (21, 31, 41) according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein at least one contoured interaction region (56) is designed to convert a rotational movement of the lever element (22, 32) and / or the housing element (26, 36) and / or the connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) into a translational movement of the lever element (22, 32) and / or the connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) in said first spatial direction (x). [14] Connection module or connection arrangement (21, 31, 41) according to one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the connection and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) is floatingly mounted on the lever element (22, 32) and / or the housing element (26, 36) by means of a floating fastening arrangement (37, 54) which is contained in the connection and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) and / or in the lever element (22, 32) and / or the housing element (26, 36). [15] Connection module or connection arrangement (21, 31, 41) according to one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the lever element (22, 32) comprises a lever arm (25, 35) and a lever housing (26, 36) which at least partially encloses at least one connection and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43). [16] Connection module or connection arrangement (21, 31, 41) according to one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the connection arrangement and / or the connection module (21, 31, 41) is configured to be releasably attached to at least one housing wall (6), in particular on a housing wall (6) of a stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) or a modular system (1), wherein in particular the connecting arrangement and / or the connecting module (21, 31, 41) is designed to cooperate with at least one fastening element (30). [17] Connection system, in particular a connection system for modular electronic devices and / or modular electronic assemblies, in particular for use in a plurality of stackable housing modules (2, 3, 4) or in a modular system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the connection system comprises connection arrangements and / or connection modules (21, 31, 41), in particular a connection arrangement and / or a connection module (21, 31, 41) or a plurality of connection arrangements and / or connection modules (21, 31, 41) according to a feature or a combination of features according to one of claims 9 to 16, wherein the connecting arrangements and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) comprise: at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) extending in a first spatial direction (x) or in a plane; wherein such connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) are designed to engage with one another to form a chain of positively connected and / or non-positively connected connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) which extend in said first spatial direction (x) or in said plane. [18] Connection system according to claim 17, wherein the connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43) each comprise at least one distal end which forms an engagement element (27, 42, 51, 52) in order to form a chain of positively connected and / or non-positively connected connecting and / or clamping elements (23, 33, 43); and at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33) is floatingly mounted on a lever element (22, 32) and / or housing element (26, 36). [19] Connection system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the connection arrangements and / or connection modules (21, 31, 41) further comprise: at least one guide element (24, 34) which interacts with at least one lever element (22, 32) and / or housing element (26, 36) and / or with at least one connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) by means of at least one contoured interaction area (56), wherein the contoured interaction region (56) is designed to convert a rotational movement of such a lever element (22, 32) and / or housing element (26, 36) and / or such a connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) into a translational movement of such a lever element (22, 32) and / or housing element (26, 36) and / or such a connecting and / or clamping element (23, 33, 43) in the first spatial direction (x). [20] Connection system according to one of claims 17 to 19, wherein pre-tensioning and / or tensioning of the chain of connected connecting and / or tensioning elements (23, 33, 43) in the first spatial direction (x) can be carried out by means of mechanical pre-tensioning and / or tensioning means (28, 29) which cooperate with at least one end element (23, 43) of the chain of connected connecting and / or tensioning elements (23, 33, 43). [21] Connection system according to one of claims 17 to 20, wherein one or a plurality of or each of the connecting assemblies and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) is configured to be releasably attached to at least one housing wall (6), in particular on a housing wall (6) of a stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) or a modular system (1), wherein in particular the releasably attachable connecting arrangements and / or connecting modules (21, 31, 41) are designed to cooperate with at least one fastening element (30). [22] Use of a connection arrangement and / or a connection module (21, 31, 41) and / or a connection system according to one of claims 9 to 21 in a stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in particular in a stackable housing module (2, 3, 4) for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements, and / or in a modular system (1) comprising a plurality of stackable housing modules (2, 3, 4) according to one of claims 7 or 8, in particular in a modular system (1) for electronic devices and / or electronic arrangements.

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