End cap device for an awning profile and awning herewith

Abstract

An end cap device for a profile (3), in particular an awning profile, comprises an end cap (6) for attachment to the profile (3) and an outer cap (7) that can be mounted on the end cap (6) without tools and can be moved relative to the end cap (6) from an intermediate mounting position to a final mounting position. It also has a retaining device that, in the final mounting position, provides a holding effect to keep the outer cap (7) on the end cap (6), while this holding effect is absent in the intermediate mounting position. Furthermore, the end cap device has a locking mechanism for locking the outer cap (7) to the end cap (6) in the final mounting position to prevent it from shifting into the intermediate mounting position.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an end cap device for a profile, in particular for an awning profile. Furthermore, the invention relates to an awning profile arrangement with at least one such end cap device and to an awning with such an awning profile arrangement.

[0002] End caps are typically attached to the ends of profiles, such as awning profiles. The outer caps of these end caps are often secured with visible screws, which can allow unwanted water ingress into the end cap or the profile.

[0003] EP 2 397 621 A2 discloses an awning for a roof window. The awning has two brackets that are screwed to a housing at the front and covered externally by covers. The covers and brackets are connected to each other via pivot-snap mechanisms. Pivoting the cover into its closed position creates a snap connection between the locking elements of the cover and the receptacles of the bracket. Each cover is also equipped with transverse locking elements that, when pivoted into its closed position, engage with the receptacles and ensure secure attachment of the cover to the bracket. The way the covers are fixed to the brackets is often unsatisfactory.

[0004] WO 2024 / 042078 A2 discloses awnings and quick-release mechanisms. A winding tube can be rotatably arranged within an awning housing between two longitudinal end sections of the cover. The longitudinal end section of the cover can be designed as an end cap and include a cover element for closing an opening at the end face. The end cap can have a slot-like guide recess around its circumference for receiving a rib-like projection formed in the cover element. The cover element includes a locking element with a locking head at its bottom for securing it to the end cap. However, the securing of the cover element to the end cap is often unsatisfactory.

[0005] From EP 3 480 415 B1, an awning with a drive unit is known. The awning comprises a rail and end caps that are detachably connected to the rail at their ends. At least one part of the drive unit is detachably connected to an end cap.

[0006] US Patent 10,584,528 B2 discloses end caps for use on a rail for a window cover. The end cap is removable. A support projects from the inside of the end cap, which has a locking projection at its end. The locking element is inserted into a through-opening in the rail.

[0007] The invention aims to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, it seeks to provide an end cap device that allows for particularly simple and reliable assembly and disassembly, while also being visually appealing. A corresponding awning profile arrangement and awning are also to be provided.

[0008] This problem is solved according to the invention by the features specified in independent claims 1, 14, and 15. The core of the invention lies in the holding device and the locking device, which together, in the fully assembled or mounted state of the end cap assembly, securely and, in particular, releasably fix the outer cap to the end cap, preferably without screws. In, and especially only in, the final assembly position, the outer cap is both held and locked. In the intermediate assembly position, which differs functionally and / or spatially from the final assembly position, locking by the locking device and the holding effect by the holding device are preferably omitted.

[0009] The holding device comprises at least one holding element arranged on the outer cap and at least one holding counter-element arranged on the end cap, which engage with each other in the intermediate assembly position or can be inserted into each other from the initial assembly position to the intermediate assembly position. In the final assembly position, they cooperate to provide a holding effect. Preferably, the engaging holding elements and holding counter-elements do not exert a holding effect in the intermediate assembly position. Particularly preferably, the engaging holding elements and holding counter-elements in the intermediate assembly position define a displacement, in particular a guided one, from the intermediate assembly position to the final assembly position.

[0010] It is advantageous if the holding device comprises several holding elements and / or holding counter-elements. The at least one holding element and the at least one holding counter-element are preferably designed to be complementary to each other. The at least one holding element is preferably an integral part of the outer cap. It is advantageous if the at least one holding counter-element is an integral part of the end cap. It is expedient if at least one holding element is arranged in at least each corner region of the outer cap. Advantageously, at least one holding counter-element is also arranged in each corner region of the end cap. This allows for a particularly strong connection between the end cap and the outer cap. The connection or holding effect is extremely uniform. Relative movements of the outer cap to the end cap are avoided.

[0011] The at least one holding element or the at least one holding element comprises a retaining bolt which, in the final assembly position, engages behind the at least one holding element or the at least one holding element. Preferably, the retaining bolt is rigid. For example, it is L-shaped, U-shaped, or has an L- or U-shaped retaining section.

[0012] Preferably, the at least one retaining element is designed as an opening, recess, or the like, for example, as a retaining bolt opening. It is preferably continuous. The opening is at least partially closed around its circumference. For example, it is completely closed around its circumference.

[0013] For example, at least one retaining element is arranged as a retaining latch on the outer cap. Preferably, at least one retaining element is designed as a through-opening in the end cap, so that the at least one retaining element engages behind the end cap in the final assembly position. The retaining element is structurally simple and robust.

[0014] A particular advantage of the invention lies in the functional separation between the holding action and the securing mechanism in the final assembly position. This allows for a high holding effect that withstands even high mechanical loads, such as those encountered in strong winds, without compromising tool-free assembly and disassembly. In particular, no high forces act on the holding device during assembly and disassembly, thus advantageously minimizing the risk of damage.

[0015] The holding device and the locking device are preferably designed differently in terms of construction and / or function. The holding device is, for example, designed as a friction-fit and / or positive-fit holding device.

[0016] Preferably, the relative positioning of the outer cap to the end cap in the intermediate assembly position is defined, for example, by ensuring that the end cap and the outer cap interact or engage with each other in this position. For instance, components of the holding device are arranged adjacent to each other or engage with each other in the intermediate assembly position. It is advantageous if, in the intermediate assembly position, the end cap and outer cap are movable relative to each other, either opposite to an insertion direction and / or in a mounting direction.

[0017] It is advantageous if the outer cap can be moved from the intermediate assembly position to the final assembly position. Ideally, it should also be possible to move it back from the final assembly position to the intermediate assembly position, and in particular, to do so in a guided manner. The outer cap is preferably moveable from and / or into the final assembly position when a moving force, particularly a manual one, exceeds the locking force generated by the locking mechanism.

[0018] It is advantageous if the outer cap, when the end cap assembly is mounted or assembled, at least partially, and in particular completely, covers the outer surface of the end cap. The outer cap is, for example, a molded part. It is advantageous if it is a casting. In particular, it is made of die-casting, especially aluminum die-casting. The outer cap is preferably made in one piece. It is advantageously rigid.

[0019] The end cap is preferably detachable, advantageously attached to the profile at its end face or end when the end cap assembly is installed. It can, for example, be screwed to the profile. It forms, for example, an intermediate or inner cap. It is advantageous if the end cap is or comprises a sheet metal part, in particular a metal sheet part, or a sheet metal blank, in particular a laser-cut part. It is preferably rigid.

[0020] The profile is, in particular, an awning profile, as also specified in dependent claim 14. It is, for example, a hollow profile. In its installed state, it extends, for example, vertically or horizontally. In its installed state, the profile is preferably stationary or, in particular, guided and movable. For example, it is designed as a drop profile that connects to an awning fabric at its end. Alternatively, it is preferably a lateral guide rail profile for the direct or indirect guidance of awning guide rollers and / or a side edge of an awning fabric. For example, the profile is an end rail profile for the stationary attachment of the awning, such as to a building or supports or columns. It is, for example, a support column profile for at least partially supporting the awning.

[0021] The end cap device is, depending particularly on the orientation of the profile, for example a side cap device or head cap device.

[0022] The awning according to dependent claim 15 is, for example, a folding arm awning or a conservatory awning.

[0023] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0024] It is advantageous if the retaining device and the locking mechanism are designed separately from each other, particularly in terms of physical separation. This makes assembly and disassembly especially easy. Furthermore, the outer cap can be securely fixed in place when the end cap assembly is mounted or assembled. Conversely, simple and reliable disassembly is also possible. A functional separation of the retaining device and the locking mechanism, as well as their holding and locking functions, is thus possible and intuitively understandable for an installer.

[0025] Advantageously, only the holding device exerts its holding effect when the end cap assembly is assembled or mounted. The locking mechanism preferably does not contribute to the holding effect. This preferably applies to both the intermediate and final mounting positions.

[0026] It is advantageous if the holding effect acts in a direction that differs from the direction of movement from the intermediate to the final assembly position. Ideally, the holding device does not exert a holding effect along the direction of movement from the intermediate to the final assembly position. The assembly direction and the direction of the holding effect are preferably perpendicular to each other. This also results in a particularly user-friendly and secure end cap assembly.

[0027] Preferably, the movement from the intermediate assembly position to the final assembly position is linear, and in particular exclusively linear, along the assembly direction. It is advantageous if the assembly direction extends obliquely or, preferably, perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the profile to be finished.

[0028] It is advantageous if, for assembly, the outer cap can be displaced relative to the end cap from an initial assembly position along an insertion direction to an intermediate assembly position, wherein the insertion direction is inclined or perpendicular, particularly perpendicular, to the direction of displacement from the intermediate assembly position to the final assembly position. In the initial assembly position, the end cap and the outer cap are, for example, particularly completely, disengaged from each other. They are then preferably spaced apart from each other. A corresponding interaction between them is advantageously avoided. The initial assembly position preferably differs functionally and / or spatially from the intermediate assembly position and / or from the final assembly position. It is expedient if the displacement from the initial assembly position to the intermediate assembly position is linear, particularly exclusively linear, along the insertion direction.Preferably, the insertion direction during assembly runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the profile to be closed.

[0029] Preferably, the locking device acts in and / or against the mounting direction and the holding device in and / or against the insertion direction.

[0030] It is advantageous if the locking device on the outer cap or the end cap, preferably on the end cap, has at least one locking projection and on the other cap at least one locking counter-measure for interacting with the at least one locking projection. It is expedient if the at least one locking projection is arranged in a central area of ​​the respective cap in the longitudinal and / or lateral direction. The at least one locking projection and the at least one locking counter-measure are preferably complementary to each other. The at least one locking projection is, for example, an integral part of the respective cap or arranged as a separate component on it. The at least one locking counter-measure is preferably an integral part of the respective cap.

[0031] Preferably, the at least one detent projection has a threaded body for its local fixation, particularly on the respective cap, preferably on the end cap. The threaded body is, for example, designed as a threaded bolt, screw, or set screw. It preferably has an external thread. For example, the threaded body can be screwed into the respective cap for local fixation. Alternatively, it can be locally fixed to the respective cap, for example, by means of a screwed-on nut. Preferably, this allows a detent force in the final assembly position to be set precisely and easily.

[0032] Preferably, the at least one locking element is designed as a locking receptacle, which is spatially delimited by at least one locking receptacle body. The at least one locking receptacle body is, for example, closed on its circumference. It projects forward, for example, and is then preferably bead-like. Alternatively, it is, for example, designed as a recess.

[0033] Preferably, the at least one detent body adjacent to the at least one detent receptacle has at least one detent head insertion flank that rises in the assembly direction of the movement from the intermediate assembly position to the final assembly position in order to influence an insertion force. The at least one detent head insertion flank extends, for example in cross-section, preferably flat and / or curved. It advantageously extends around the perimeter and preferably forms on the outside of the at least one detent body. It is, for example, designed as a chamfer on an outer edge of the detent body. Depending on its shape, for example the slope, a light or heavy insertion force can thus be set.

[0034] It is advantageous if the at least one detent body adjacent to the at least one detent has at least one removal flank rising in the opposite direction of the movement from the intermediate assembly position to the final assembly position, in order to influence a removal force. The at least one removal flank extends, for example in cross-section, as a plane and / or curved surface. It is preferably located adjacent to, and in particular directly adjacent to, the at least one detent. The at least one removal flank is advantageously circumferential and preferably located on the inside of the at least one detent body. It is, for example, designed as a chamfer on an inner edge of the detent body. Depending on the shape, for example the slope, of the at least one removal flank, a light or heavy removal force can be set.

[0035] The at least one removal flank and insertion flank are preferably adjacent but spaced apart from each other. The insertion force and removal force can be the same or different.

[0036] Preferably, the at least one detent projection has a detent head that is at least partially spherical or rounded. This is particularly user-friendly and allows, for example, reliable and low-wear insertion of the detent head into the detent receptacle and / or removal of the detent head from the detent receptacle. The detent head is, for example, a single or integral part of the detent projection. Alternatively, the detent head is, for example, designed separately.

[0037] It is advantageous for the detent head to be spring-loaded or resilient. In particular, it is capable of executing a stroke when inserted into and / or removed from the detent receptacle. It is beneficial if the detent projection incorporates a spring, especially a compression spring or, more specifically, a compression coil spring, which acts directly or indirectly on the detent head, preferably on its inner side. The spring-loaded detent head also facilitates easy insertion into and / or removal from the detent receptacle and secure positioning.

[0038] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a perspective view of an awning with two end cap devices according to the invention, Fig. 2 an exploded view showing an end cap device and an end area of ​​an awning profile of the in Fig. 1 awning shown illustrates, Fig. 3 a perspective view showing an outer cap of the depicted end cap device from the inside, Fig. 4 a partial section through the illustrated end cap device in a state mounted on the awning profile, which mainly illustrates the interaction between the end cap and outer cap of the end cap device, Fig. 5 A perspective view illustrating the assembly of the outer cap in its initial assembly position, with the end cap already attached to the awning profile, Fig. 6 a Fig. 5 corresponding views as sectional views, Fig. 7 a Fig. 5 similar view, with the outer cap in the intermediate assembly position, Fig. 8 a Fig. 7 corresponding view as a section view, Fig. 9 an enlarged detail in sectional view showing a detent projection and a detent receptacle of the illustrated end cap device in engagement with each other, Fig. 10 one Fig. 9 corresponding view with a snap-fit ​​body forming the snap-fit ​​receptacle according to a second embodiment, and Fig. 11 a Fig. 9 corresponding view with a snap-fit ​​body forming the snap-fit ​​receptacle according to a third embodiment

[0039] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an awning, which in the illustrated embodiment is designed as a folding-arm awning. However, other types of awnings are also possible, such as pergola or winter awnings. The awning comprises an end rail profile 1, which forms an awning housing. The end rail profile 1 extends horizontally and is attached, for example, to a building (not shown). Furthermore, the awning has a rotatable fabric roller (not shown), which is rotatably mounted in the end rail profile 1. The awning also has an awning fabric 2, which can be extended and retracted. When the awning is retracted, the awning fabric 2 is wound onto the fabric roller. Conversely, when the awning is extended, the awning fabric 2 is unwound from the fabric roller. The awning also has a drop profile 3, to which the awning fabric 2 is attached at one end pointing in the extension direction 4.The drop profile 3 extends perpendicular to the exit direction 4 and runs horizontally. It runs parallel to the end rail profile 1.

[0040] Furthermore, the awning includes two end cap assemblies 5, which are structurally identical. The end cap assemblies 5 are mirror images of each other. When installed, they are positioned at the front or end of the drop profile 3 and close it off. Since, as mentioned, the end cap assemblies 5 are structurally identical, only one end cap assembly 5 will be described in detail below. This description will also address... Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4.

[0041] Each end cap assembly 5 has an end cap 6 and an outer cap 7, which are designed as separate, connectable components. The outer cap 7 can be detachably and locally fixed to the end cap 6.

[0042] The end cap 6 includes a base plate 8 which is adapted to the front face of the drop profile 3. The base plate 8 can, for example, be a sheet metal blank, in particular a laser-cut part. It can have a uniform thickness D.

[0043] The base plate 8 has several, here three, mounting openings 9, each of which is closed on its circumference and circular. The mounting openings 9 are spaced apart from each other and are identical in shape. According to the illustrated embodiment, two mounting openings 9 are located next to each other, spaced apart, in an upper region of the end cap 6, and one mounting opening 9 is located in a lower central region of the end cap 6. A different number and / or arrangement of the mounting openings 9 in the end cap 6 is alternatively possible.

[0044] The end cap 6 can be screwed to the front face of the drop profile 3. Fastening screws 10 are used for this purpose, each comprising a cylindrical core 11 with an external thread and a head 12 that projects radially beyond the respective core 11.

[0045] When fastened, the end cap 6 rests against the outer end face of the drop profile 3, sealing it. Each fastening screw 10, with its cylindrical core 11, penetrates a fastening opening 9 and its head 12 rests against the outer side of the base plate 8. The fastening screws 10 are screwed into fastening screw receptacles 13, which are arranged accordingly on the drop profile 3 and extend along a longitudinal axis 14 of the drop profile 3. The fastening screw receptacles 13 are open to the adjacent end face of the drop profile 3 and are adapted to the cylindrical cores 11 of the fastening screws 10. When fastened, the end cap 6 extends vertically and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14 of the profile.

[0046] Furthermore, several retaining bolt openings are arranged at intervals from each other in the base plate 8, namely a first retaining bolt opening 15a, a second retaining bolt opening 15b, a third retaining bolt opening 15c and a fourth retaining bolt opening 15d.

[0047] Each retaining bolt opening 15a, 15b, 15d is designed as a through-opening or recess in the base plate 8. The retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d are elongated. They extend horizontally and parallel to each other. The retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d are, for example, rectangular.

[0048] The first retaining bolt opening 15a is completely closed around its circumference. It extends in the base plate 8 in an upper area, particularly a corner area, above the upper mounting openings 9. The first retaining bolt opening 15a is located adjacent to a front edge 16 of the base plate 8, which, when the end cap 6 is mounted, faces away from the end rail profile 1.

[0049] The second retaining bolt opening 15b is again completely closed around its circumference. It is located in the base plate 8 diagonally below the first retaining bolt opening 15a and below the two upper mounting openings 9. The second retaining bolt opening 15b is located in an upper area of ​​the base plate 8. It is adjacent to a rear edge 17 of the base plate 8, which extends parallel to the front edge 16 and, when the end cap 6 is mounted, faces the end rail profile 1.

[0050] The third retaining bolt opening 15c is located in a lower area, particularly a corner area, of the base plate 8 adjacent to the rear edge 17. It is completely closed around its circumference. It is positioned obliquely above the lower mounting opening 9.

[0051] The fourth retaining bolt opening 15d is open downwards. It is therefore only partially spatially confined. It is located adjacent to the front edge 16 in the base plate 8 and extends from a lower edge 18 of the base plate 8, which is perpendicular to the front edge 16 or rear edge 17. The fourth retaining bolt opening 15d is located in a lower area, in particular a corner area, of the base plate 8.

[0052] In a central area of ​​the base plate 8, a circular passage opening 19 is arranged (preferably exactly).

[0053] Alternatively, a different number and / or arrangement of the retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d and / or the passage opening 19 is possible.

[0054] The end cap 6 also has or carries (exactly) one locking element 20, which has a hollow cylindrical core 21 with an external thread and a head 22 projecting radially from the core 21. When the end cap 6 is assembled, the locking element 20 with its core 21 passes through the opening 19. The head 22 is located on the side facing the drop profile 3 and rests against the base plate 8 there. The core 21 extends from the head 22 away from the drop profile 3. It projects towards the outer cap 7 when installed. When the end cap 6 is assembled, a locking nut 23 is screwed onto the core 21, resting against the base plate 8 opposite the head 22 and thus securing the locking element 20 to the base plate 8. The locking element 20 is positioned with its core 21 perpendicular to the base plate 8 and axially forward of the locking nut 23, forming a projection, namely a locking projection.

[0055] By screwing the locking element 20 in or out relative to the locking nut 23, for example, the protrusion of the locking element 20 relative to the base plate 8 and thus the locking force can be adjusted.

[0056] In other embodiments, the passage opening 19 can, for example, also be designed as a threaded bore into which the locking element 20 can be screwed with its thread.

[0057] How Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the core 21 contains an internal compression spring 39. The core 21 holds a detent ball 40 at its head. The compression spring 39 is supported against an inner base 41 of the detent body 20. It rests against the inside of the detent ball 40 and pushes it away from the base 41. The detent ball 40 is displaceable along the core 21. In its normal position, the detent ball 40 projects partially axially from the core 21 at the end of the core 21 facing away from the head 22. It is also received within the core 21.

[0058] The outer cap 7 is made in one piece. It has a front 24, a back 25, a top 26, and a bottom 27. The front 24 and back 25 are arranged opposite each other, for example, parallel to each other. The top 26 and bottom 27 are also arranged opposite each other, for example, parallel to each other and perpendicular to the front 24 and back 25, respectively. When the outer cap 7 is mounted, the top 26 and bottom 27 extend horizontally, while the front 24 and back 25 extend vertically.

[0059] The front 24, back 25, top 26 and bottom 27 are formed on a web 28 of the outer cap 7, which is circumferential and projects from an outer plate 29 of the outer cap 7. When the outer cap 7 is mounted, the web 28 projects from the outer plate 29 towards the end cap 6 or the drop profile 3.

[0060] The outer plate 29 is completely uninterrupted on the outside, in particular free of openings, recesses, bores or the like. It is, for example, flat in that area. It can also be curved.

[0061] The outer cap 7 also has several, here four, rigid retaining bars, namely a first retaining bar 30a, a second retaining bar 30b, a third retaining bar 30c and a fourth retaining bar 30d. The retaining bars 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d are integrally connected to the outer plate 29 and spaced apart from each other. They are oriented in the same way. For example, they are identical in design.

[0062] Each retaining bolt 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d comprises a retaining bolt base 31 and a retaining bolt head 32 extending perpendicularly from the base towards the rear surface 25. The retaining bolt bases 31 are preferably identical and have a uniform cross-section. The retaining bolt heads 32 are also preferably identical. Each retaining bolt base 31 extends perpendicularly to the outer plate 29 and originates from its own retaining base 33, which adjoins the inner side of the outer plate 29. Each retaining bolt 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d has a free first retaining flank 34 facing the associated retaining base 33. The first retaining flanks 34 lie in a common plane that extends parallel to and spaced apart from the outer plate 29. Each retaining bolt foot 31 forms a stop flank 35 which, in the illustrated embodiment, faces the rear side 25 and runs perpendicular to the adjacent first retaining flank 34.Each retaining base 33 extends from the outer plate 29 to a free edge of the web 28 and forms a second retaining flank 34a there, which extends parallel to, but spaced apart from, the adjacent first retaining flank 34. The second retaining flanks 34a lie in a common plane that extends parallel to and spaced apart from the outer plate 29. A distance A between a first retaining flank 34 and an adjacent second retaining flank 34a corresponds essentially to the thickness D. It is advantageously slightly larger. The adjacent first and second retaining flanks 34, 34a form a retaining slot.

[0063] The first retaining bolt 30a is arranged in an upper corner area of ​​the outer cap 7 adjacent to the front face 24. The associated retaining base 33, for example, has an identical base area to the retaining bolt head 32 of the first retaining bolt 30a.

[0064] The second retaining bar 30b is arranged obliquely below the first retaining bar 30a, adjacent to the rear side 25. The associated retaining base 33, for example, has a larger base area than the retaining bar head 32 of the second retaining bar 30b.

[0065] The third retaining bolt 30c is arranged in a lower corner area of ​​the outer cap 7 adjacent to the rear side 25. The associated retaining base 33, for example, has a larger base area than the retaining bolt head 32 of the third retaining bolt 30c.

[0066] The fourth retaining bar 30d is arranged in a lower corner area of ​​the outer cap 7 adjacent to the front face 24. The associated retaining base 33, for example, has an identical base area to the retaining bar head 32 of the fourth retaining bar 30d.

[0067] The first retaining bar 30a and the first retaining bar opening 15a are aligned. The second retaining bar 30b and the second retaining bar opening 15b are aligned. The third retaining bar 30c and the third retaining bar opening 15c are aligned. The fourth retaining bar 30d and the fourth retaining bar opening 15d are aligned.

[0068] Each retaining bolt head 32 has a longitudinal extent LR parallel to the underside 27, which essentially corresponds to a longitudinal extent LO of a retaining bolt opening 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d parallel to the lower edge 18, and in particular is slightly smaller than this.

[0069] Each retaining bolt head 32 has a height HR perpendicular to its longitudinal extent LR and parallel to the rear side 25, which essentially corresponds to a height HO of a retaining bolt opening 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d parallel to the rear edge 17, and is in particular slightly smaller than this. The retaining bolt foot 31 adjoining the respective retaining bolt head 32 also has a height HR.

[0070] The outer plate 29 also carries (preferably exactly) a cylindrical detent receptacle 36, which is arranged in a central area of ​​the plate. The detent receptacle 36 is formed or bounded by a detent receptacle body 37, which projects vertically from the inner side of the outer plate 29 and is completely closed on its circumference. The detent receptacle body 37 is, for example, essentially hollow cylindrical or, at least in some areas, annular in cross-section. It is integrally connected to the outer plate 29 and is open opposite the outer plate 29.

[0071] The indexing body 37 has an insertion flank 42 at its free end, which runs around the outside of the indexing body 37. The insertion flank 42 is designed as an insertion chamfer and is spaced apart from the indexing receptacle 36. The insertion flank 42 forms an insertion angle wE with a free head surface 44 of the indexing body 37, which here is 45°. Extending from the outside towards the indexing receptacle 36, the insertion flank 42 rises.

[0072] Furthermore, an inner distance flank 43 is formed on the detent body 37 at its free end. The distance flank 43 adjoins the detent receptacle 36 directly and is designed as a distance slope. The distance flank 43 forms a distance angle wN with the free head surface 44, which is also 45° in this case. The distance flank 43 and the insertion flank 42 are inclined at different angles. Moving from the outside towards the detent receptacle 36, the distance flank 43 slopes downwards.

[0073] The bridge 28 has a water drainage opening 38 on its underside 27.

[0074] In the assembled or mounted state of the end cap assembly 5, which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the detent receptacle 36 and the detent ball 40 are associated with each other. They are arranged opposite one another. The detent ball 40 engages in the detent receptacle 36 in a detent-like manner. The compression spring 39 presses the detent ball 40 into the detent receptacle 36 or against the detent receptacle body 37, so that a detent connection exists between the end cap 6 and the outer cap 7, or rather, they are locked together.

[0075] The first retaining bar opening 15a and the first retaining bar 30a are paired together. The second retaining bar opening 15b and the second retaining bar 30b are paired together. The third retaining bar opening 15c and the third retaining bar 30c are paired together. The fourth retaining bar opening 15d and the fourth retaining bar 30d are paired together. They are arranged in adjacent pairs.

[0076] In the assembled or mounted state of the end cap assembly 5, each retaining bolt 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d, with its retaining bolt base 31, penetrates the associated retaining bolt opening 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d. Each retaining bolt head 32 engages behind the base plate 8 and extends from the penetrated retaining bolt opening 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d towards the rear edge 17. The first retaining flanks 34 extend directly adjacent to the base plate 8 or at least partially abut the inner surface of the base plate 8. The second retaining flanks 34a also extend directly adjacent to the base plate 8 or at least partially abut the outer surface of the base plate 8. The base plate 8 engages in the retaining slots. The first and second retaining flanks 34, 34a run parallel to the base plate 8. They fix the outer cap 6 in the direction of the profile longitudinal axis 14, i.e. towards and away from the end cap 6.The stop flanks 35 extend directly adjacent to the base plate 8. They can also be in contact with the base plate 8, at least in some areas.

[0077] The following refers to the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. 8 describes the assembly of the outer cap 7 on an end cap 6 already attached to the front of the drop profile 3.

[0078] The outer cap 7 is initially located accordingly Fig. 5, Fig. 6 in an assembly starting position in which it is completely spaced away from the associated end cap 6 of the end cap assembly 5. It is freely movable relative to the end cap 6. The outer cap 7 and the end cap 6 extend parallel to each other.

[0079] The outer cap 7 is then moved from the initial assembly position along an insertion direction 45 ( Fig. 5), which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the profile 14, is displaced towards the end cap 6. The retaining bolt heads 32 are leading the way and are guided, preferably simultaneously, through the retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d. In doing so, they approach the drop profile 3.

[0080] In an intermediate assembly position, which is in Fig. 7, Fig. As illustrated in Figure 8, the retaining bolt feet 31 penetrate the retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d. The retaining bolt heads 32 are located on the side of the base plate 8 facing the drop profile 3. The first and second retaining flanks 34, 34a are arranged directly adjacent to the retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d. They are spaced laterally from the material of the base plate 8, so that in the intermediate assembly position, the retaining bolts 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d and the retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d / base plate 8 do not interact with each other in a retaining manner, and no retaining effect occurs. The retaining slots and the base plate 8 are not engaged with each other. The locking elements 20 and the locking receptacle 36 are arranged laterally offset from each other. There is no locking or latching action between the end cap 6 and the outer cap 7.

[0081] Subsequently, the outer cap 7 is moved from the intermediate assembly position horizontally along an assembly direction 46 towards its rear side 25 into a final assembly position, which is in Fig. Figure 4 shows the first retaining flanks 34 engaging behind the base plate 8 or its material and, in the final assembly position, are located laterally next to the retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d. The second retaining flanks 34a extend laterally next to the retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d adjacent to the base plate 8. In the final assembly position, the retaining flanks 34, 34a, or retaining slots, hold the outer cap 7 firmly to the end cap 6. The detent ball 40 slides over the insertion flank 42, whereby, under compression from the compression spring 39, the detent ball 40 is further inserted into the hollow cylindrical core 21. As soon as the detent ball 40 is positioned adjacent to the detent receptacle 36, it engages in the detent receptacle 36, whereby the detent ball 40 is displaced outwards with an increase in length of the compression helical spring 39.In the final assembly position, the stop flanks 35 rest against a boundary edge of the base plate 8 that defines the respective retaining bolt opening 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, or extend adjacent to the respective boundary edge. They run perpendicular to the assembly direction 46. The assembly direction 46 runs perpendicular to the insertion direction 45 and horizontally. It is directed towards the rear side 25.

[0082] The retaining bars 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d are retaining means that interact with the respective retaining bar openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d forming the retaining bar countermeasures. The retaining bars 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d and retaining bar openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d form respective retaining devices.

[0083] Removing the outer cap 7 from the end cap 6 is accomplished in the reverse order. The detent ball 40 slides over the removal flank 43, whereby the detent ball 40, under compression from the pressure helical spring 39, plunges further into the hollow cylindrical core 21. The detent is thus released.

[0084] An alternative arrangement of the holding device, such as the retaining bolt 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d and retaining bolt openings 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, and / or locking device, such as the locking body 20 and the locking receptacle 36, is possible.

[0085] In the embodiment according to Fig. In 10, compared to the previous embodiment, to whose description reference is made, the distance slope 43 is steeper. The distance angle wN is 60°. The required distance force is greater than the insertion force.

[0086] In the embodiment according to Fig.In embodiment 11, compared to the first embodiment, to whose description reference is made, the insertion flank 42 is steeper. The insertion angle wE is 30°. The insertion force to be applied is lower here compared to the first embodiment.

[0087] The terms used here, such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "outside," "inside," "top," "bottom," or similar, refer to the orientation of the awning as shown. They may differ depending on the orientation or arrangement.

[0088] Combinations of the embodiments are possible.

Claims

[1] End cap device for a profile (3), in particular an awning profile, comprising a) an end cap (6) for attachment to the profile (3), b) an outer cap (7) which i) can be mounted on the end cap (6) without tools, and ii) can be moved from an intermediate mounting position to a final mounting position relative to the end cap (6), c) a holding device which i) in the final assembly position exerts a holding effect to hold the outer cap (7) on the end cap (6), whereas the holding effect is absent in the intermediate assembly position, and ii) has at least one retaining means (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) arranged on the outer cap (7) and at least one retaining countermeasure (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) arranged on the end cap (6), which engage each other in the intermediate assembly position and cooperate to hold in the final assembly position, wherein the at least one retaining means (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) or the at least one retaining countermeasure (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) has a retaining latch which engages behind the at least one retaining countermeasure (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) or the at least one retaining means (30a, 30b, 30c, 30d) in the final assembly position, and d) a locking device for locking the outer cap (7) to the end cap (6) in the final assembly position to secure against displacement into the intermediate assembly position. [2] End cap devices according to claim 1, characterized bythat the holding device and the locking device are designed separately from each other, in particular spatially separated from each other. [3] End cap device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that only the holding device exerts the holding effect. [4] End cap device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the holding effect acts in a direction which differs from a mounting direction (46) of the displacement from the intermediate mounting position to the final mounting position. [5] End cap device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that for assembly the outer cap (7) can be displaced relative to the end cap (6) from an initial assembly position along an insertion direction (45) into the intermediate assembly position, wherein the insertion direction (45) is inclined or perpendicular, in particular perpendicular, to an assembly direction (46) of the displacement from the intermediate assembly position to the final assembly position. [6] End cap device according to claim 5, characterized by , that the locking device acts in and / or against the mounting direction (46) and the holding device acts in and / or against the insertion direction (45). [7] End cap device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the locking device on the end cap (6) or the outer cap (7) has at least one locking projection (20) and on the other cap (7, 6) has at least one locking countermeasure (36) for interacting with the at least one locking projection (20). [8] End cap device according to claim 7, characterized by , that the at least one detent projection (20) has a threaded body (21) for its local fixation. [9] End cap device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized by , that the at least one locking device (36) is designed as a locking receptacle which is spatially limited by at least one locking receptacle body (37). [10] End cap device according to claim 9, characterized by , that the at least one detent receiving body (37) adjacent to the at least one detent receptacle (36) has at least one detent head insertion flank (42) rising in the assembly direction (46) of the displacement from the intermediate assembly position to the final assembly position to influence an insertion force. [11] End cap device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by, that the at least one detent body (37) adjacent to the at least one detent receptacle (36) has at least one distance flank (43) rising in the opposite direction to a mounting direction (46) of the displacement from the intermediate mounting position to the final mounting position in order to influence a distance force. [12] End cap device according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized by , that the at least one detent projection (20) has a detent head (40) which is at least partially spherical or rounded. [13] End cap device according to claim 12, characterized by , that the locking head (40) is spring-loaded. [14] Awning profile arrangement, a) with an awning profile (3), in particular a drop profile, especially for a folding arm awning, awning fabric guide rail profile, awning mounting end rail profile or awning support column profile, and b) with at least one end cap device (5) arranged on the awning profile (3) according to one of the aforementioned claims. [15] Awning a) with an awning fabric (2), and b) with at least one awning profile arrangement according to claim 14.

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