Protective cover

Abstract

Protective cover (1) comprising a plurality of shielding elements (2, 3), in particular L-shaped in cross-section, which are movably linked to one another by coupling connectors (5, 5a, 5b), wherein the shielding elements (2, 3) each have a first leg (2.1, 3.1) and at least one second leg (2.2, 3.2) angled relative to its first leg (2.1, 3.1), the second legs (2.2, 3.2) being arranged with their cover surfaces opposite each other such that the first legs (2.1, 3.1) of the immediately adjacent shielding elements (2, 3) overlap at least partially, forming a shielding surface (4) of variable length, wherein at least one, preferably each, of the connectors (5, 5a, 5b) has a central web (5.1) which has at least two pivotably arranged on it. has arms (5.2, 5.3), characterized in that the central web (5.1) of a connector (5, 5a, 5b) is connected to the second leg (2.2, 3.2) of a shielding element (2, 3) and at least one arm (5.2, 5.3) of this connector (5, 5a, 5b) is connected to the second leg (2.2, 3.2) of an immediately adjacent shielding element (2, 3).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a protective cover according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Protective covers serve to define and cover work areas. Due to their mechanical strength, they are preferably used to shield moving machine components. They primarily fulfill the functions already required for safety reasons and / or protection against contamination, such as acting as a physical barrier against chips, lubricants, or coolants. Depending on the application, these covers can consist of a bellows with inner and outer folds or comprise a length-adjustable base body formed from it. Bellows-less designs feature shielding elements that at least partially overlap and are usually movable relative to each other transversely to their longitudinal direction. These shielding elements can be, for example, louvers made of sheet metal or another suitable material.Composite materials made from at least two different materials are also possible.

[0003] The shielding elements used typically have a continuous or at least partially L-shaped cross-section. This L-shaped cross-section comprises at least two legs angled towards each other. While the first legs of the shielding elements, which overlap at least partially, form a closed shielding surface, the end faces of their respective second legs are oriented towards each other. The length of the shielding cover can be adjusted based on the at least partially variable distances between the second legs. To ensure the necessary overlap of the first legs to maintain the shielding surface, as well as the overall cohesion of the shielding cover, the individual shielding elements are interconnected. This can be achieved by a movable coupling of the directly opposing second legs using special connectors.The first legs can therefore also be referred to as cover legs and the second legs as fastening legs. The connectors can be spring elements whose spring resistance is directed either in or against the direction of the possible approach of the second legs. As a result, the lengthening or shortening of the shielding surface formed by the first legs is at least supported by the connectors. At the same time, at least some of these connectors can be designed to limit the distance between two immediately adjacent second legs of the shielding elements, so that the shielding surface always remains closed even at the maximum possible extension length of the protective cover.

[0004] To achieve the most compact possible reduction in the size of the protective cover (compression dimension), its connectors must meet certain requirements. They should allow the closest possible proximity of the second legs of the shielding elements connected by them.

[0005] Since the connectors are usually located between the second legs of the shielding elements, a design that is as flat as possible is therefore desirable.

[0006] Protective covers with the aforementioned features are known from DE 20 2021 100 847 U1 and DE 20 2021 105 325 U1, the connectors of which have a central web with at least two arms pivotably arranged on this web. DE 20 2021 100 847 U1 shows a connection of the second legs of the shielding elements to the connectors exclusively via the arms of the individual connectors, the central webs of which have no connection whatsoever with the second legs of the shielding elements. In contrast, DE 20 2021 105 325 U1 discloses a connection exclusively of the second legs of the shielding elements to the central webs of the individual connectors, while the individual connectors are connected to each other via their arms.

[0007] Due to the design of the connectors and their coupling with the individual shielding elements, the previously known protective covers already achieve very compact dimensions when fully retracted. To maintain sufficient spacing between two shielding elements when the protective cover is fully extended, two interconnected connectors (DE 20 2021 105 325 U1) or correspondingly long arms are required.

[0008] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of further developing a protective cover in such a way that it enables a further reducible compression dimension and allows for the simplest possible manufacture and integration of its connectors.

[0009] This problem is solved by a protective cover having the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are found in the dependent claims.

[0010] According to the invention, a protective cover is proposed in which the central web of a connector is connected to the second leg of a shielding element, while at least one arm of this connector is connected to the second leg of an immediately adjacent shielding element. In other words, with respect to two immediately adjacent shielding elements, the connector is thus connected on the one hand to one shielding element by its central web and on the other hand to at least one arm.

[0011] Such a connector enables extremely simple integration within the protective cover by eliminating the otherwise sometimes necessary coupling with another connector, as it can be directly connected to the second leg of two immediately adjacent shielding elements.

[0012] Preferably, the central web of a connector can only have two arms pivotably arranged on it.

[0013] Regarding the position of the arms on the central web of a connector, it is considered particularly advantageous if, in particular, at least one arm is arranged in the area, preferably on, an edge of the central web, while, in particular, at least another arm of the same connector is arranged in the area, preferably on, an edge of the central web facing away from this edge. In this way, two arms hinged to the central web can be positioned opposite each other.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the central web of at least one connector can have a cantilever section through which the central web is connected to the second leg of a shielding element. The cantilever section makes it possible to space the arms of the connector a correspondingly large distance from the second leg of the shielding element.

[0015] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the invention provides that at least one, preferably each, arm of a connector can have a first arm section and a second arm section, wherein the two arm sections of the arm are movably connected to each other by an intermediate web. In this way, the arm thus configured is movable within itself.

[0016] Based on this, it is considered advantageous if at least one arm, preferably all arms of a connector, are each connected to the associated central web by their first arm section.

[0017] In principle, it is considered advantageous if the two arm sections of the arm or arm are arranged on the same edge of the associated intermediate web.

[0018] Particularly preferred is an offset arrangement of the two arm sections of an arm on the associated intermediate web such that the two arm sections of this arm can each be pivoted in one of two planes, in particular planes extending parallel to each other.

[0019] Advantageously, the first arm sections of at least two arms or of the two arms of the same connector can be pivotable in a common plane.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, the second arm sections of at least two arms or of the two arms of the same connector can be pivotable in a common plane.

[0021] For the purposes of this invention, the term "plane" refers to a geometric plane.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment, at least one arm of a connector can have a free end section, preferably a pivotable one. The end section can be arranged on the second arm section of this arm. In any case, the arm can be connected to the second leg of a shielding element by its free end section.

[0023] The invention provides in a particularly preferred manner that the second leg of at least one shielding element may have at least one through-opening designed for connection, in particular indirect connection, with at least one connector.

[0024] Building on this, the central webs of two connectors can advantageously be connected to each other through one or more of its through-openings. This is done by incorporating a section of the second leg between these connectors.

[0025] Alternatively or, preferably, additionally, the arms of two connectors can be connected to each other by incorporating a section of the second leg through its or one of its through-opening(s). Advantageously, the free end sections of the arms can be connected to each other in this way.

[0026] The invention provides that the through-openings of the shielding elements are arranged or configured in a manner offset from one another. Specifically, this means an arrangement of at least some of the through-openings of the individual shielding elements that is offset with respect to a longitudinal direction, such that a through-opening of at least one shielding element can be located between two through-openings of an immediately adjacent shielding element. This enables an ideal connection between the shielding elements and the connectors, particularly with regard to their configuration according to the invention.

[0027] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the central webs and / or the arms of two connectors, especially their free end sections, can be joined together at least partially by a material bond. Such a material bond can preferably be a weld. This can preferably be carried out as ultrasonic welding. Alternatively or additionally, the material bond can also be achieved by adhesive bonding. A combination of the purely exemplary connection types mentioned can be limited to different areas of the connectors thus joined.

[0028] It is particularly advantageous to provide at least one positioning means in the area of ​​at least one through-opening of the second leg of a shielding element. The positioning means serves to align the central web and / or an arm, in particular its free end section, of a connector on the second leg of a shielding element. This facilitates the precise positioning of the connectors on the shielding elements to ensure their uniform arrangement and alignment, which is crucial for the reliable function of the protective cover. At least one of the positioning means can be formed on and / or arranged on the second leg of a shielding element.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the connectors can, in principle, be equipped with a positioning device designed and / or arranged on it.

[0030] At least one, preferably each, of the aforementioned positioning means may advantageously be formed by or have a through-hole.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, the positioning means, or at least one of them, can be formed by or have a recess on the edge.

[0032] The invention provides that at least one or each of the connectors can be formed from a plate-shaped base body. The base body, in particular each individual base body, can then preferably be divided into individual sections by partial cuts. The arrangement of these cuts allows, for example, the arms of a connector to be formed in a simple manner.

[0033] Although the base body can have various thicknesses, the choice of which will be determined by the person skilled in the art for the respective application, it can preferably have a thickness of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0034] With regard to the aforementioned cuts, at least one of the cuts can be made by cutting, punching, and / or milling. Of course, alternatively or additionally, at least partial sawing of the base body is conceivable.

[0035] According to the invention, at least one connector can have at least one bending line along which at least one part of the connector can pivot relative to another part of the same connector.

[0036] The bending lines, or at least one of them, can be formed by a film hinge, in particular a continuous one.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, the bending line, or at least one of it, can be formed by an embossing or / and cross-sectional compression directed into the material of the connector.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the bending line, or at least one of it, can be formed by a limited removal of material.

[0039] Preferably, at least one of the bending lines can extend along at least a partial material removal and / or a series of perforation openings extending through the base body.

[0040] The invention essentially provides that the shielding elements can be made of a metal and / or that the connectors are made of a plastic or at least incorporate such a material. The plastic could be, for example, polyamide, polypropylene, polypropylene copolymer, or polyethylene, to name just a few examples of possible plastics.

[0041] It is particularly advantageous for the connectors to be designed identically, which enables their extremely simple and cost-effective production.

[0042] Preferably, the arms of two connectors connected via these can be pivoted in different directions relative to the associated central web, particularly in a state of the protective cover that is at least partially pulled apart.

[0043] In general, it is considered advantageous if the free end sections of at least one connector face each other.

[0044] The protective cover according to the invention enables an extremely compact size when compressed, while simultaneously reducing weight and enabling economical manufacturing. In particular, the coupling of the connectors to the shielding elements through their openings by means of bonded connections, without the use of additional fasteners, contributes significantly to this. Compared to, for example, riveted connections, the welded connection according to the invention exhibits a significantly higher tensile strength, thereby substantially increasing the load-bearing capacity and durability of the protective cover.

[0045] The invention is described below with reference to a [something] in the Fig. The exemplary embodiments shown in sections 1 to 5 are explained in more detail.

[0046] They show: Fig. 1 - a protective cover according to the invention in a perspective view, Fig. 2 - a single connector of the protective cover made of Fig. 1 in a two-dimensional top view, Fig. 3a - the connector of the protective cover Fig. 1 in a first bending shape in perspective representation, Fig. 3b - the connector of the protective cover made of Fig. 1 in a second bending shape in perspective representation, Fig. 4 - a section of the protective cover reduced to two shielding elements made of Fig. 1 in a perspective representation as well as Fig. 5 - the protective cover made of Fig. 1 in a two-dimensional view.

[0047] Fig. Figure 1 shows a protective cover 1 according to the invention in a perspective view. The protective cover 1 comprises a plurality of shielding elements 2, 3, each extending parallel to one another in a longitudinal direction X. Preferably, these shielding elements are made of a metal. The shielding elements 2, 3 each have at least a partial L-shaped cross-section, such that each of these shielding elements 2, 3 has a first leg 2.1, 3.1 and a second leg 2.2, 3.2 angled relative to the first leg 2.1, 3.1. The end faces of the second legs 2.2, 3.2 of the shielding elements 2, 3 are positioned opposite each other such that their first legs 2.1, 3.1 overlap at least partially, forming a shielding surface 4 whose length varies in a direction A of change of length of the protective cover 1. The width of the second legs 2.2, 3.2 extends parallel to a transverse direction Y, while the width of the first legs 2.1, 3.1 extends parallel to a vertical direction Z.

[0048] On the second leg 2.2, 3.2 of each shielding element 2, 3, two connectors 5 are arranged, purely by way of example, by which the individual shielding elements 2, 3 are coupled and thus movably linked to one another. The individual connectors 5 are also arranged purely by way of example in two rows R1, R2, in particular running parallel to the vertical direction Z. In the illustrated embodiment of the protective cover 1, the individual connectors 5 all have the same design, so that they are identical in construction. Of course, these can also be combined with connectors that differ from these in an embodiment not shown here.

[0049] Fig. Figure 2 shows the shape of one of the connectors 5 in a two-dimensional top view, which is representative of all other structurally identical connectors 5 and will now be described in more detail. Preferably, the connector 5 can be made of or comprise a plastic. The plastic can be, for example, polyamide, polypropylene, polypropylene copolymer, or polyethylene. The connector 5 is recognizably formed from a plate-shaped base body G. This base body has individual cutouts D in certain areas, so that the base body G is divided into individual sections. By way of example, the base body G shown here can have a thickness of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. The cutouts D can be formed, for example, by cutting, punching, or milling the base body G.

[0050] Several bending lines F1–F8 present on the base body G, e.g., attached or incorporated, enable corresponding mobility. In this way, individual parts of the connector 5 are designed to pivot along their bending lines F1–F8 relative to other parts of the same connector 5. At least one of the bending lines F1–F8 can be formed by a film hinge, in particular a continuous one. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the bending lines F1–F8 can be formed by an embossing or cross-sectional compression directed into the material of the connector 5. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the bending lines F1–F8 can be formed by a limited material removal.At least one of the bending lines F1 - F8 can extend along at least a partial material removal and / or a series of perforations extending through the base body G (not shown in detail here).

[0051] Due to the cuts D, the connector 5 is divided into a central web 5.1 and – in the embodiment shown here – exactly two arms 5.2, 5.3, which are pivotably arranged on the central web 5.1, particularly because of two of the bending lines F4, F5. It is evident that one of the arms 5.2 is arranged on or in the region of an edge 5.1a of the central web 5.1, while the other arm 5.3 is located on or in the region of an edge 5.1b of the central web 5.1 facing away from this edge 5.1a. The central web 5.1 itself has a cantilever section 5.1c through which the central web 5.1 is connected to the second leg 2.2, 3.2 of a shielding element 2, 3 (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 5).

[0052] Looking at the two arms 5.2, 5.3, it becomes clear that each has a first arm section 5.2a, 5.3a and a second arm section 5.2b, 5.3b. Both arms 5.2, 5.3 are connected to the central bridge 5.1 by their first arm section 5.2a, 5.3a. The first arm section 5.2a, 5.3a and the second arm section 5.2b, 5.3b of each arm 5.2, 5.3 are movably connected to each other by an intermediate bridge 5.2c, 5.3c. Both arm sections 5.2a, 5.2b; 5.3a, 5.3b of an arm 5.2, 5.3 are identifiable as being located on the same edge 5.2d, 5.3d of the corresponding intermediate bridge 5.2c, 5.3c. The two arm sections 5.2a, 5.2b; 5.3a, 5.3b of an arm 5.2, 5.3 are arranged offset from each other on the associated intermediate web 5.2c, 5.3c such that the two arm sections 5.2a, 5.2b; 5.3a, 5.3b can each pivot in one of two planes E1, E2, in particular planes extending parallel to each other. Due to this arrangement, the first arm sections 5.Sections 2a, 5.3a of each arm 5.2, 5.3 are pivotable in a common first plane E1, and the second arm sections 5.2b, 5.3b of each arm 5.2, 5.3 are pivotable in a common second plane E2. The second arm section 5.2b, 5.3b of each arm 5.2, 5.3 has a free end section 5.2e, 5.3e, which is intended to connect the connector 5 to the second leg 2.2, 3.2 of a shielding element 2, 3 (see . Fig. 1 and Fig. 5) The free end sections 5.2e and 5.3e are clearly facing each other.

[0053] The connector 5 is provided with a total of eight positioning means P5a - P5d, P5e - P5h, which are formed and / or arranged on it. Of these, four positioning means P5a - P5d are located on the central web 5.1. The remaining four positioning means P5e, P5f, P5g, P5h are located in pairs on the free end section 5.2e, 5.3e of each arm 5.2, 5.3. The four positioning means on the central web 5.1 and the two positioning means P5a - P5d located on each of the two free end sections 5.2e, 5.3e of the arms 5.2, 5.3 in the area of ​​the bending line F1, F8, which delineates the respective free end section 5.2e, 5.3e from its associated second arm section 5.2b, 5.3b, constitute a total of six positioning means P5a - P5d. P5e and P5h are each formed by a through-hole. In contrast, the positioning means P5f and P5g located at the respective ends of the two free end sections 5.2e and 5.3e are each recognizably formed by a recess at the edge.

[0054] Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b is structurally identical to the one described previously in relation to Fig. 2 more detailed descriptions, connector 5 in perspective view, each of which has a different bending shape: Fig. Figure 3a shows the connector 5 with arms 5.2, 5.3 pivoted downwards relative to the illustration. For this purpose, their first arm sections 5.2a, 5.3a are each inclined downwards along the corresponding bending lines F4, F5, so that the intermediate webs 5.2c, 5.3c lie below a plane within which the central web 5.1 extends. The intermediate webs 5.2c, 5.3c and the central web 5.1 remain essentially parallel to each other. This depends on the torque within the material that develops when bending along the bending lines F4, F5 and may therefore appear differently in intended use, for example, as a slight inclination of the intermediate webs 5.2c, 5.3c relative to the central web 5.1, which, however, has no effect on the intended function of the connector 5. The second arm sections 5.2b, 5.3b of each arm 5.2, 5.3 are also in relation to the respective corresponding intermediate bridge 5.2c, 5.3c inclined downwards along the associated deflection curve F2, F7, while their free end sections 5.2e, 5.3e continue to extend parallel to the central web 5.1 by being angled accordingly along the deflection curves F1, F8 relative to the associated second arm sections 5.2b, 5.3b.

[0055] Fig. Figure 3b shows the connector 5 with arms 5.2, 5.3 pivoted upwards relative to the illustration. For this purpose, their first arm sections 5.2a, 5.3a are each inclined upwards along the corresponding deflection curves F4, F5, so that the intermediate webs 5.2c, 5.3c are located above the plane within which the central web 5.1 extends. The intermediate webs 5.2c, 5.3c and the central web 5.1 also continue to run essentially parallel to each other, whereby the relationship between the intermediate webs 5.2c, 5.3c and their possible inclination has already been established. Fig. 3a The above applies. The second arm sections 5.2b, 5.3b of each arm 5.2, 5.3 are also inclined upwards relative to the respective intermediate web 5.2c, 5.3c along the corresponding deflection curve F2, F7, while their free end sections 5.2e, 5.3e continue to extend parallel to the central web 5.1 by being angled accordingly along the deflection curves F1, F8 relative to the corresponding second arm sections 5.2b, 5.3b.

[0056] The two forms of connector 5 from Fig. 3a and Fig. Figure 3b shows each of these in its installation position within the protective cover 1 in its at least partially pulled-apart state.

[0057] Fig. Figure 4 is a section of the protective cover 1 reduced to only two shielding elements 2, 3 for better clarity. Fig. Figure 1 is shown in perspective. Based on this figure, the respective structures of the remaining shielding elements 2 and 3 will be described in more detail below: The shielding elements 2, 3 preferably all have the same basic shape. However, shielding elements 2, 3 with a different shape are also possible, e.g., at the ends of the protective cover. Only their second legs 2.2, 3.2, which are angled relative to their respective first legs 2.1, 3.1, differ with respect to the number and position of the through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b provided or arranged therein. By way of example, the second leg 2.2 of one shielding element 2 has a total of four of these through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d, while the second leg 3.2 of the other shielding element 3 has a total of two through-openings 3.2a, 3.2b. Of course, the shielding elements 2, 3 can also have a different number of through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d, not shown here. 3.2a, 3.2b possess, which are always based on the number of series R1, R2 of connectors 5.

[0058] In the area of ​​each through-opening 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b of the shielding elements 2, 3, two positioning means P2a - P2h, P3a - P3d are provided, formed and / or arranged in their second legs 2.2, 3.2. The number shown is, of course, purely exemplary and can also be more or fewer individual positioning means P2a - P2h, P3a - P3d per through-opening 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b. In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning means P2a - P2h, P3a - P3 are each formed by a through-hole. In any case, at least some of the positioning means P2a - P2h, P3a - P3d are provided for the positional alignment of the central web 5.1 and of an arm 5.2, 5.3, in particular its free end section 5.2e, 5.3e, of a connector 5 on the second leg 2.2, 3.2.

[0059] Furthermore, only one of the shielding elements 3 has guide elements S arranged at the ends of its second leg 3.2, which can serve, for example, to guide the protective cover 1 laterally along guide rails in a manner not shown in detail.

[0060] As can be seen, the through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b of the shielding elements 2, 3 are offset from each other with respect to their longitudinal direction X, such that the through-openings 3.2a, 3.2b of the shielding element 3, which has fewer through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b, are each located between two through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d of the immediately adjacent shielding element 2, which has more through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b. Looking at the position of the through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b in combination with the in Fig. The reason for this becomes clear when looking at the connector 5 shown in Figure 3b. The through-openings 3.2a, 3.2b of the shielding element 3, which has fewer through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b, each correspond to the central web 5.1 of a connector 5, while two through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d of the shielding element 2, which has more through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b, each correspond to the two free end sections 5.2e, 5.3e of the arms 5.2, 5.3 of the connector 5.

[0061] Fig. Figure 5 now illustrates the installation situation of the connectors 5 within the protective cover 1 and, in particular, their connection with the shielding elements 2, 3. As can be seen, the connectors 5 of a series R1, R2 with alternating bend shapes are arranged between the respective second legs 2.2, 3.2 of two immediately adjacent shielding elements 2, 3, as shown in a summary view of the Fig. 3a with Fig. 3b already indicated. Thus, the arms 5.2, 5.3 of two connectors 5 connected to each other via these, especially in a state of at least partial separation of the protective cover 1, are pivoted in different directions relative to the associated central web 5.1.

[0062] To maintain clarity, the reference symbols are in Fig. 5 is essentially limited to two of the connectors 5; however, the same applies to the remaining connectors 5. The one in Fig. Connector 5, exhibiting a visible bending shape, receives the reference numeral 5a only here, while the one in Fig. 3b connectors exhibiting a visible bending shape 5 only herein receives the reference numeral 5b.

[0063] The central webs 5.1 of each pair of connectors 5a, 5b are shown to be brought close together by incorporating a portion of the second leg 3.2 of a shielding element 3, such that they are connected through one of its through-openings 3.2a, 3.2b. In contrast, the free end sections 5.2e, 5.3e of two connectors 5a, 5b are brought close together by incorporating a portion of the second leg 2.2 of an immediately adjacent shielding element 2, such that they are connected through one of its through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d. The actual connection of the central webs 5.1 and free end sections 5.2e, 5.3e of two connectors 5a, 5b is at least partially material-bonded. This connection is particularly preferably formed by welding, especially ultrasonic welding. Alternatively or additionally, this can of course also be formed by bonding.

[0064] In each case, the central web 5.1 of a connector 5 is connected to the second leg 2.2, 3.2 of a shielding element 2, 3, while the arms 5.2, 5.3 of this connector 5 are connected to the second leg 2.2, 3.2 of an immediately adjacent shielding element 2, 3.

[0065] The material-bonded connection between the individual connectors 5 allows for an extremely compact compression of the protective cover 1. This is further reduced by arranging the two arm sections 5.2a, 5.2b; 5.3a, 5.3b of each arm 5.2, 5.3 side by side, as the arm sections 5.2a, 5.2b; 5.3a, 5.3b cannot overlap, even when the protective cover 1 is fully compressed. During the joining process, the positioning means P2a - P2h, P3a - P3d, located on the shielding elements 2, 3 in the area of ​​the through-openings 2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b, serve in combination with the positioning means P5a - P5d located on the connectors 5. P5e, P5h the exact alignment of shielding elements 2, 3 and connectors 5 to each other. List of reference symbols: 1 protective cover 2 shielding elements of 1 3 shielding elements of 1 2.1 first leg of 2 2.2 second leg of 2 2.2a Through opening in 2.2 2.2b Through opening in 2.2 2.2c Through opening in 2.2 2.2d Through opening in 2.2 3.1 First leg of 3 3.2 second leg of 3 3.2a Through opening in 3.2 3.2b Through opening in 3.2 4 shielding area of ​​1 5 connectors of 1 5a Connector from 1 5b Connector of 1 5.1 Middle bridge of 5, 5a, 5b 5.1a Edge of 5.1 5.1b Edge of 5.1 5.1c Boom area of ​​5.1 5.2 Arm of 5, 5a, 5b 5.2a first arm section of 5.2 5.2b second arm section of 5.2 5.2c Intermediate bridge of 5.2 5.2d Edge of 5.2 5.2e free end section of 5.2 5.3 Arm of 5, 5a, 5b 5.3a first arm section of 5.3 5.3b second arm section of 5.3 5.3c Intermediate bridge of 5.3 5.3d edge of 5.3 5.3e free end section of 5.3 A direction of length change D severing of G E1 Level E2 Level F1 Bending curve between 5.3b and 5.3e F2 deflection curve between 5.3b and 5.3c F3 deflection curve between 5.3a and 5.3c F4 Deflection curve between 5.1 and 5.3a F5 Bending curve between 5.1 and 5.2a F6 Deflection curve between 5.2a and 5.2c F7 Deflection curve between 5.2b and 5.2c F8 deflection curve between 5.2b and 5.2e G Basic body of 5, 5a, 5b P2a Positioning device of 2.2 P2b Positioning device from 2.2 P2c positioning device from 2.2 P2d positioning device from 2.2 P2e positioning device from 2.2 P2f positioning device from 2.2 P2g positioning device from 2.2 P2h positioning device from 2.2 P5a Positioning device of 5.1 P5b Positioning device of 5.1 P5c Positioning device from 5.1 P5d Positioning device from 5.1 P5e Positioning device from 5.2e P5f Positioning device of 5.2e P5g positioning device from 5.3e P5h Positioning device from 5.3e R1 series of 5, 5a, 5b R2 series of 5, 5a, 5b S guide element at 3.2 X Longitudinal direction Y transverse direction Z vertical 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 2021 100 847 U1

[0006] OF 20 2021 105 325 U1 [0006, 0007]

Claims

[1] Protective cover (1), comprising a plurality of shielding elements (2, 3), each of which is in particular L-shaped in cross section, which are linked to one another in a movable manner by means of connectors (5, 5a, 5b) coupling them, wherein the shielding elements (2, 3) each have a first leg (2.1, 3.1) and at least one second leg (2.2, 3.2) which is angled relative to its first leg (2.1, 3.1), of which second legs (2.2, 3.2) are arranged with their cover surfaces opposite one another in such a way that the first legs (2.1, 3.1) of the directly adjacent shielding elements (2, 3) at least partially overlap to form a shielding surface (4) variable in length, wherein at least one, preferably each, of the connectors (5, 5a, 5b) has a central web (5.1) which has at least two this has pivotally arranged arms (5.2, 5.3), characterized bythat the central web (5.1) of a connector (5, 5a, 5b) is connected to the second leg (2.2, 3.2) of a shielding element (2, 3) and at least one arm (5.2, 5.3) of this connector (5, 5a, 5b) is connected to the second leg (2.2, 3.2) of an immediately adjacent shielding element (2, 3). [2] Protective cover (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the central web (5.1) of a connector (5, 5a, 5b) has only two arms (5.2, 5.3) pivotably arranged thereon. [3] Protective cover (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that, in particular, at least one arm (5.2, 5.3) of a connector (5, 5a, 5b) is arranged in the region, preferably on, an edge (5.1a, 5.1b) of the central web (5.1) and, in particular, at least one other arm (5.2, 5.3) of the same connector (5, 5a, 5b) is arranged in the region, preferably on, an edge (5.1a, 5.1b) of the central web (5.1) facing away from this edge (5.1a, 5.1b). [4] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the central web (5.1) of at least one connector (5, 5a, 5b) has a cantilever region (5.1c) through which the central web (5.1) is connected to the second leg (2.2, 3.2) of a shielding element (2, 3). [5] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one, preferably each, arm (5.2, 5.3) of a connector (5, 5a, 5b) has a first arm section (5.2a, 5.3a) and a second arm section (5.2b, 5.3b), wherein the two arm sections (5.2a, 5.3a; 5.2b, 5.3b) of an arm (5.2, 5.3) are movably connected to one another by an intermediate web (5.2c, 5.3c). [6] Protective cover (1) according to claim 5, characterized by that at least one arm (5.2, 5.3), preferably all arms (5.2, 5.3) of a connector (5, 5a, 5b) are each connected to the associated central web (5.1) by their first arm section (5.2a, 5.3a). [7] Protective cover (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by that the two arm sections (5.2a, 5.2b; 5.3a, 5.3b) of an arm (5.2, 5.3) are arranged on the same edge (5.2d, 5.3d) of the associated intermediate web (5.2c, 5.3c). [8] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by a mutually offset arrangement of the two arm sections (5.2a, 5.2b; 5.3a, 5.3b) of an arm (5.2, 5.3) on the associated intermediate web (5.2c, 5.3c) such that the two arm sections (5.2a, 5.2b; 5.3a, 5.3b) are each pivotable in one of two planes (E1, E2), in particular planes extending parallel to one another. [9] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized by that the first arm sections (5.2a, 5.3a) of at least two arms (5.2, 5.3) or of the two arms (5.2, 5.3) of the same connector (5, 5a, 5b) are pivotable in a common plane (E1). [10] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 5 to 9, characterized bythat the second arm sections (5.2b, 5.3b) of at least two arms (5.2, 5.3) or of the two arms (5.2, 5.3) of the same connector (5, 5a, 5b) are pivotable in a common plane (E2). [11] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one arm (5.2, 5.3) of a connector (5, 5a, 5b) has a preferably pivotable, free end section (5.2e, 5.3e), arranged in particular on its second arm section (5.2b, 5.3b), wherein this arm (5.2, 5.3) is connected by its free end section (5.2e, 5.3e) to the second leg (2.2, 3.2) of a shielding element (2, 3). [12] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the second leg (2.2, 3.2) of at least one shielding element (2, 3) has at least one through-opening (2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b) designed for, in particular, indirect connection to at least one connector (5, 5a, 5b). [13] Protective cover (1) according to claim 12, characterized by that the central webs (5.1) of two connectors (5, 5a, 5b) are connected to one another by incorporating a region of the second leg (3.2) through its or one of its through-openings (3.2a, 3.2b). [14] Protective cover (1) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by that the arms (5.2, 5.3) of two connectors (5, 5a, 5b), in particular their free end sections (5.2e, 5.3e), are connected to one another by incorporating a region of the second leg (2.2) through its or one of its through-openings (2.2a - 2.2d). [15] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized byan arrangement of at least some of the through-openings (2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b) of the individual shielding elements (2, 3) offset with respect to a longitudinal direction (X) such that a through-opening (3.2a, 3.2b) of at least one shielding element (3) is located between two through-openings (2.2a - 2.2d) of an immediately adjacent shielding element (2). [16] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 13 to 15, characterized by that the central webs (5.1) and / or the arms (5.2, 5.3) of two connectors (5, 5a, 5b), in particular their free end sections (5.2e, 5.3e), are at least partially materially connected to one another, preferably by welding, preferably ultrasonic welding, and / or gluing. [17] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 12 to 16, characterized byin that in the region of at least one through-opening (2.2a - 2.2d; 3.2a, 3.2b) of the second leg (2.2, 3.2) of a shielding element (2, 3), at least one positioning means (P2a - P2h, P3a - P3d) is provided which is designed and / or arranged for aligning the position of the central web (5.1) and / or an arm (5.2, 5.3), in particular its free end section (5.2e, 5.3e), of a connector (5, 5a, 5b) on the second leg (2.2, 3.2). [18] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one positioning means (P5a - P5d, P5e - P5h) is provided on at least one of the connectors (5, 5a, 5b) formed thereon and / or arranged thereon. [19] Protective cover (1) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by that the positioning means (P2a - P2h, P3a - P3d; P5a - P5d, P5e, P5h) is formed by a through hole or has such a through hole. [20] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized bythat the or at least one positioning means (P5f, P5g) is formed by or has an edge-side recess. [21] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one of the connectors (5, 5a, 5b) or each connector (5, 5a, 5b) is formed from a plate-shaped base body (G), wherein the respective base body (G) is divided into individual regions by partial cuts (D). [22] Protective cover (1) according to claim 21, characterized by that the base body (G) has a thickness of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. [23] Protective cover (1) according to claim 21 or 22, characterized by that at least one of the cuts is formed by one of the following measures: - Cut, - punching, - Milling. [24] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat at least one connector (5, 5a, 5b) has at least one bending line (F1 - F8) along which at least a part of the connector (5, 5a, 5b) can be pivoted relative to another part of the same connector (5, 5a, 5b). [25] Protective cover (1) according to claim 24, characterized by that the or at least one bending line (F1 - F8) is formed by a, in particular gapless, film hinge. [26] Protective cover (1) according to claim 24 or 25, characterized by that the or at least one bending line (F1 - F8) is formed by an embossing and / or cross-sectional compression directed into the material of the connector (5, 5a, 5b). [27] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 24 to 26, characterized by that the or at least one bending line (F1 - F8) is formed by a limited material removal. [28] Protective cover (1) according to one of claims 24 to 27, characterized bythat at least one of the bending lines (F1 - F8) extends along an at least partial material removal and / or a series of perforation openings extending through the base body (G). [29] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the shielding elements (2, 3) are formed from a metal and / or that the connectors (5, 5a, 5b) are formed from one of the following plastics or at least comprise one of such: - Polyamide - polypropylene, - Polypropylene copolymer, - Polyethylene. [30] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the connectors (5, 5a, 5b) are identical in construction. [31] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the arms (5.2, 5.3) of two connectors (5, 5a, 5b) connected to one another via these, in particular in an at least partially pulled-apart state of the protective cover (1), are pivoted in different directions relative to the associated central web (5.1). [32] Protective cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the free end sections (5.2e, 5.3e) of at least one connector (5, 5a, 5b) face each other.

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