Shopping cart release mechanism for unlocking shopping carts with front-loading and coin pusher systems

Abstract

Shopping cart release device (1) for unlocking shopping cart locks, characterized in that it comprises at least one flexible release loop (2).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a shopping cart release mechanism for unlocking shopping cart locks, in particular front-loading and coin-operated systems. background

[0002] Shopping carts in supermarkets and hypermarkets are typically equipped with coin-operated locks that are only unlocked after inserting a coin (€0.50, €1.00, or €2.00) or a corresponding coin substitute. The purpose of these systems is to ensure the carts are returned in an orderly manner after use. In practice, two types of lock systems have become established. With locks that have a straight coin slot, also known as front-loading locks, the coin or token is inserted frontally into a linear slot. With locks that have coin sliders, also called drawer locks, the coin or token is placed in a sliding tray and pushed completely into the lock. This unlocks the coin-operated lock and releases the shopping cart. Summary Technical Problem

[0003] A disadvantage is that they must remain in the lock for the entire duration of use and are not immediately available to the user. Furthermore, practical experience shows that coins are often unavailable in times of cashless payments, and that replacement tokens are easily lost or forgotten.

[0004] To circumvent the disadvantages of coins and coin tokens, shopping cart release devices have been developed, also known as instant-release or shopping cart release tools. These are inserted into the coin slot of a front-loading cart lock, unlock the lock, and can then be immediately removed. This leaves no coin or token in the lock. Such shopping cart release devices are widely available on the market, often made of non-ferrous metals, stainless steel, wood, or plastic, and frequently designed as key fobs. However, these types of shopping cart release devices are only suitable for front-loading carts. They cannot be used in coin-operated systems where the coin or token must remain in the drawer for the entire duration of use. Therefore, these common shopping cart release devices are not universally applicable.

[0005] Finally, there are commercially available products that attempt to operate both locking systems. One example is the shopping cart release offered under the name "Trolleymaster," which is protected as a registered EU design. This product consists of a flat metal body and can be used as an immediately removable shopping cart release in front-loading trolleys. However, for coin-operated systems, the application requires the opposite end of the body to be slid under the coin mechanism to trigger the locking mechanism. This method of operation deviates significantly from the usual handling and is perceived as cumbersome. Prior art also proposed a combination of different functionalities by equipping an immediately removable shopping cart release with a detachably attached chip that can be used in coin-operated systems.Such a dual solution is described in DE 20 2022 001 384 U1. However, a disadvantage here as well is that the user has to use different procedures depending on the type of lock: in front-loading carts, the shopping cart release must be removed immediately; in coin-operated carts, an additional chip must be inserted separately or handled. A single, simple movement for both systems is therefore not possible.

[0006] Furthermore, DE 20 2011 000 291 U1 discloses a shopping cart release device whose purpose is to provide a mechanism for unlocking coin locks, enabling the user to retain possession of the release element even after using the shopping cart. The solution described therein is essentially based on a rigid, coin- or chip-shaped body that can be inserted into front-loading locks and removed after unlocking. However, this design is unsuitable for coin-operated sliding systems, as the element would have to remain in the drawer throughout its use. Moreover, it lacks elastic adaptability, thus preserving the risk of jamming during insertion or removal.

[0007] Despite these known solutions, there is currently no universally applicable release element available that is equally suitable for front loaders and coin pushers and is immediately available to the user after the unlocking process.

[0008] In addition to the general limitations of deposit-based locking systems, the prior art also identified the problem that rigid shopping cart release mechanisms are often difficult to remove after unlocking or tend to jam. This is often due to the fact that many deposit locks (front-loading carts) are designed in such a way that when the release element is inserted, one or two lateral jaws must first be displaced with a defined force perpendicular to the insertion direction before the locking mechanism can be actuated by the front edge or tip of the element.

[0009] To facilitate the removal of a classic shopping cart release mechanism from a shopping cart, it has been proposed to design the geometry of a rigid metal chip using defined curves and slots in such a way as to avoid friction peaks; such a design is disclosed in DE 20 2017 005 600 U1. Another approach involves dividing the release element into several sections and making a central segment elastic so that it can yield when pulled out transversely to the insertion direction; such a design is found in DE 20 2022 001 384 U1.Finally, it was also suggested that the basic body of the shopping cart release mechanism be designed to be deformable overall, so that it adapts elastically when pulled out; the disclosure given in this regard is essentially limited to general information and slot formations, without providing a reliable teaching on material selection, cross-sectional design or mechanical properties, on the basis of which reproducible elastic deformability could be ensured under real tolerances and friction conditions; cf. DE 20 2011 107 163 U1.

[0010] If the transverse stiffness, width, or contact area of ​​the shopping cart release mechanism is insufficient, the required lateral stroke of the jaws will not be achieved, causing the unlocking process to fail. This mechanical design means that while purely optimizing the shape of rigid chips and incorporating elastic elements within the body may facilitate removal, they do not reliably address the functional requirements for lateral force and displacement application in the lock, especially when manufacturing tolerances, wear, and increases in friction due to contamination are also taken into account.

[0011] Furthermore, all approaches share the common feature that, while they aim to improve coin removal in front-loading machines, they are designed only as rigid or deformable chip bodies and therefore cannot be used in coin pusher systems. Thus, the problem of a lack of universal suitability remains. Technical solution

[0012] The object of the invention is to use a flexible release loop to unlock both coin-operated locks with a coin slot (front loader) and those with a coin slider, and to make the lock immediately available to the user again after the unlocking process. At the same time, handling should be simplified and the tendency to jam during insertion and withdrawal reduced.

[0013] The problem is solved by a shopping cart release mechanism with the features of claim 1. The shopping cart release mechanism comprises at least one flexible release loop that can be used in both front-loading locks and coin-operated systems. This design makes it possible to unlock both types of locks with the same element and to remove the shopping cart release mechanism immediately after unlocking.

[0014] Advantageous further developments of the invention result from the dependent claims.

[0015] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to preferred embodiments. The figures refer to exemplary configurations of the shopping cart release mechanism.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the shopping cart release mechanism comprises a release loop formed from a flexible wire rope. The release loop has a head section at its upper end, the dimensions of which correspond to those of a standard deposit coin. Two legs extend downwards from the head section, arranged at a divergent angle to each other and potentially attached to a base body.

[0017] The flexibility of the arms ensures that the shopping cart release can be reliably used in both front-loading locks and coin-operated systems. In front-loading locks, the geometry of the loop ensures that the side locking elements are reliably displaced during insertion. When withdrawn, the arms can flex inwards, reducing friction peaks and preventing jamming.

[0018] In coin-operated release systems, the head section of the release loop is inserted into the coin slider. The loop's arms are deflected elastically, so that the base remains above the coin slider. As it is further inserted into the lock body, it deflects further until the locking mechanism is released. After release, the loop is compressed inwards when pulled out, making it easy to remove. Due to its restoring force, it then returns to its original shape, so the shopping cart release mechanism is immediately ready for reuse.

[0019] Further embodiments may provide that the loop is double-wound, thereby forming a reinforced, coin-like section. Alternatively, the loop may be asymmetrically designed, with only one leg fixed in a base body and the other attached directly to the head section or the opposite leg. Variants without a base body are also possible, in which the legs are directly connected to each other, for example by twisting, crimping, welding, or other joining techniques.

[0020] The shopping cart release mechanism may additionally feature a receptacle for attachment to a key ring or a functional cutout, for example, for opening bottles. The invention is open with regard to the choice of material; in particular, metals, plastics, or rubber are suitable, with elastic recovery being preferred. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0021] The solution according to the invention enables the unlocking of both front-loading and coin-operated systems with a single unlocking element. This makes the user independent of the type of lock used.

[0022] Handling is simplified by a uniform operating movement, making it intuitive to use and reducing operating errors.

[0023] The adaptability of the release element to varying tolerances in the lock geometry reduces jamming during insertion and withdrawal. This reduces the required operating force and increases reliability, even with worn or dirty coin-operated locks.

[0024] The release element does not remain in the lock's coin mechanism, but is immediately available to the user after unlocking. This eliminates the need for separate coins or replacement chips.

[0025] The openness regarding the material and manufacturing processes enables economical production, flexible adaptation to different areas of application and allows for an environmentally friendly choice of materials. Brief description of the drawings

[0026] The invention will now be demonstrated using the Fig. 1 to Fig. 9 and several embodiments will be explained in more detail. A specific application description of the invention follows, specifically for unlocking a shopping cart lock with a coin-operated sliding system in the... Fig. 10 to Fig. 13. Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective schematic view of a shopping cart release mechanism according to a first embodiment of the invention; Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic side view of the shopping cart release mechanism. Fig. 1; Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic front view of the shopping cart release mechanism. Fig. 1 as a cutaway model; Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic, holistic front view of the release loop of the shopping cart release mechanism. Fig. 1; Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic sectional model of a shopping cart release mechanism according to a second embodiment; Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic cutaway model of a shopping cart release mechanism according to a third embodiment; Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic sectional model of a shopping cart release mechanism according to a fourth embodiment; Fig. Figure 8 shows a schematic sectional model of a shopping cart release mechanism according to a fifth embodiment; Fig. Figure 9 shows a schematic cutaway model of a shopping cart release mechanism according to a sixth embodiment; Fig. Figure 10 shows a schematic perspective view of the shopping cart release mechanism. Fig. 1. next to a locked shopping cart lock with coin pusher system; Fig. Figure 11 shows a schematic perspective view in which the unlocking loop of the shopping cart release mechanism is shown. Fig. 10 into the coin slot of the locked shopping cart lock of Fig. 10 is introduced; Fig. Figure 12 shows a schematic perspective view in which the unlocking loop of the shopping cart release mechanism is shown. Fig. 11 until the shopping cart lock is unlocked by Fig. 11, into which the coin slide is inserted; Fig. Figure 13 shows a schematic perspective view in which the unlocking loop of the shopping cart release mechanism is shown. Fig. 12 from the coin slot of the unlocked shopping cart lock of Fig. 12 is pulled out; Embodiments of the invention

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the shopping cart release 1 comprises a release loop 2, which is designed as a flexible wire rope loop. The release loop 2 extends from the loop head 2a over a left leg 2b and a right leg 2c, which run relative to each other and are fixed at a divergent angle α of preferably 90° at the attachment points 5, 6. The divergent arrangement of the legs 2b, 2c generates a lateral force component, which is necessary to displace the locking elements in the lock.

[0028] It is also possible to adjust the angle α to obtain the geometry of the loop head 2a. For example, it is possible for the two legs 2b, 2c to be made at an angle α of 0°, as in Fig. Figure 5 is shown as an example. In this embodiment 1a, the loop head 2a of the release loop 2 is double-wound. The loop head 2a thus has a reinforced, coin-like shape that replicates the dimensions of a release coin.

[0029] Due to a double winding, the angle α 0° can be used in this embodiment, since the stability and the contact surfaces for the lock mechanism are ensured solely by the geometry of the loop head 2a, whereby the angle α can also assume any other suitable angle between 0° and 180°. It is also possible to use other suitable winding geometries that form a loop head 2a.

[0030] Furthermore, it is possible that the legs 2b and 2c have different lengths to accommodate different lock geometries. For example, the left leg 2b may have a different length compared to the right leg 2c.

[0031] Any suitable fastening method, such as gluing, pressing, screwing, soldering or welding, can be used to fasten the legs 2b, 2c in the base body 3.

[0032] The release loop 2 has a loop head 2a at its upper end, the diameter and thickness of which correspond to a €0.50, €1.00, or €2.00 coin. Alternatively, the loop head 2a can also be adapted to other dimensions that unlock the release mechanism of different front-loading or coin-operated systems.

[0033] It is also possible that the loop head 2a is not exactly round, but oval, polygonal, or wound (cf. Fig. 5) or is designed in another way, as long as its dimensions correspond to the contact surfaces required for unlocking. This allows for the consideration of different lock geometries or manufacturing tolerances.

[0034] As in another embodiment in Fig. As described in section 6, the release loop 2 of the shopping cart release 1b can also have only a single leg 2b which is guided into the base body 3, with the second leg 2c then being attached to the loop head 2a or directly to the leg 2b.

[0035] The release loop 2 can also be used as in an alternative embodiment of Fig. 7 without a base body 3, wherein the legs 2b, 2c are connected to each other at a leg position 9a at an angle α advantageous according to the invention. The fastening of the two legs 2b, 2c can be formed by twisting, knotting, bending or pressing. Other suitable connection options are screwing, riveting, gluing, soldering or welding.

[0036] Alternatively, legs 2b and 2c can also be detachably connected to each other using magnets. This embodiment allows the shopping cart release 1d itself to function as a key ring / key holder.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment of the shopping cart release device 1c, the release loop 2 can also be designed to be attached directly to a key ring 9b, either permanently or detachably.

[0038] The base body 3 of the preferred embodiment of the shopping cart release device 1 has a tapered section 4 on the side in the insertion direction 8. This facilitates insertion into the coin slot or coin slider 12. The base body 3 can be square, round, oval, triangular, or any other suitable shape. A design without a tapered section 4 is also easily possible.

[0039] The base body 3 can be made of metal, plastic, wood, or other suitable materials. A mounting hole 7 for a key ring is provided in the base body 3. The mounting hole 7 can be located in a preferred section of the base body 3 that is furthest possible from the mounting points 5 and 6; the orientation of the mounting hole 7 is preferably transverse to the insertion direction 8.

[0040] The location of the mounting hole 7 is not limited to a specific position in the base body 3. It can be located at any point, for example, on the voice side through the base body 3, as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 9 shown or arranged laterally as in Fig. 6 or extending from an underside to a lateral flank, as in Fig. 5. It is also possible to design the shopping cart release 1 according to the invention without a mounting hole 7.

[0041] In a further embodiment, a shopping cart release 1e is provided in which an additional functional cutout 10 is included in the base body 3. In this embodiment, the functional cutout 10 is designed to be suitable for opening bottles with crown caps. It is also possible to design the functional cutout 10 in other ways, for example, as a receptacle for opening screw caps, as a can opener, as a bottle opener for special beverage containers, or as a multifunctional recess that can also be used as a hook or retaining opening. Thus, the shopping cart release 1e allows for multiple uses in addition to its unlocking function.

[0042] Fig. Figure 10 shows a schematic perspective view of a shopping cart release mechanism 1 with the release loop 2 arranged in the insertion direction 8. The shopping cart lock with coin slide system 11 comprises a lock body 14 with a coin slide 12 and a key 13. The key 13 is inserted in the lock body 14, is connected to another shopping cart via a chain (not shown), and can be released by unlocking the shopping cart lock with coin slide system 11.

[0043] Fig. Figure 11 shows a schematic perspective view of the shopping cart release mechanism 1 with a shopping cart lock with coin slide system 11 of Fig. 10. The release loop 2 of the shopping cart release mechanism 1 is inserted into the coin slider 12. Upon insertion, the Fig. The legs 2b, 2c shown in Figure 4 are elastically deflected so that the loop head 2a can be inserted into the coin slider 12, while the base body 3 remains positioned above the coin slider 12. The base body 3 serves as a guide element and simultaneously as a handle for subsequent removal.

[0044] Fig. Figure 12 shows a schematic perspective view of the shopping cart release mechanism 1 and the shopping cart lock with coin slide system 11. Fig. 11. The coin slider 12, together with the inserted release loop 2 of the shopping cart release mechanism 1, is pushed into the lock body 14. As the coin slider 12 is pushed further into the lock body 14, the Fig. The 4 depicted legs 2b, 2c are deflected more elastically, so that the coin slider 12 can be inserted into the lock body 14 until it is unlocked. This unlocks the shopping cart lock with coin slider system 11 and releases the key 13. The unlocked key 13 can now be removed in the removal direction 15.

[0045] Fig. Figure 13 shows a schematic perspective view of the shopping cart release mechanism 1 and the shopping cart lock with coin slide system 11. Fig. 12. The shopping cart release 1 is pulled out of the coin slider 12 in the pull-out direction 16 due to the flexible release loop 2. After being pulled out, the release loop 2 returns to its original shape. The coin slider 12, which is located in the lock body 14, is now empty of deposit, and the shopping cart is unlocked and ready for use. List of reference symbols 1 shopping cart release 1a Shopping cart release 1b Shopping cart release 1c Shopping cart release 1d Shopping cart release 1e Shopping cart release 2 release loops 2a Loop head 2b Left thigh 2c Right thigh 3 basic shapes 4 Rejuvenation 5 Mounting point left 6 Mounting point right 7 mounting holes 8 Introduction direction 9a Fastening without base body 9b Keyring 10 Functional section 11 Shopping cart lock with coin slider system 12 coin sliders 13 keys 14 lock bodies 15 Direction of withdrawal 16 Pulling 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 2022 001 384 U1 [0005, 0009] DE 20 2011 000 291 U1

[0006] DE 20 2017 005 600 U1

[0009] DE 20 2011 107 163 U1

[0009]

Claims

[1] Shopping cart release (1) for unlocking shopping cart locks, characterized by that it includes at least one flexible release loop (2). [2] Shopping cart release device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the release loop (2) is designed as a wire rope loop. [3] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the release loop (2) comprises a loop head (2a) and two legs (2b, 2c). [4] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the legs (2b, 2c) are arranged at a divergent angle (α) to each other. [5] Shopping cart release device (1) according to claim 4, characterized by , that the angle (α) lies in the range of 0° to 180°, preferably 90°. [6] Shopping cart release (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the release loop (2) is designed to be able to unlock both front-loading locks and coin-operated sliding systems. [7] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the loop head (2a) has dimensions corresponding to a deposit coin. [8] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the release loop (2) is fixed in a base body (3). [9] Shopping cart release device (1) according to claim 7, characterized by , that the release loop (2) is fixed in the base body (3) only by one leg (2b), while the other leg (2c) is connected directly to the loop head (2a) or to the leg (2b). [10] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the release loop (2) is formed without a base body (3). [11] Shopping cart release device (1) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the legs (2b, 2c) are directly connected to each other at a leg position (9a). [12] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the release loop (2) is double-wrapped at the loop head (2a) so that a reinforced, coin-like section is formed. [13] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the release loop (2) is directly connected to a key ring (9b). [14] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the legs (2b, 2c) are fastened by gluing, pressing, screwing, soldering or welding. [15] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the base body (3) has a mounting hole (7) for receiving a key ring (9b). [16] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the basic body (3) includes a functional section (10), in particular for opening bottles with crown caps. [17] Shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the release loop (2) is made of an elastically resilient material, in particular metal, plastic or rubber, preferably steel or stainless steel. [18] Use of a shopping cart release device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17 for unlocking shopping cart locks with front loading system or coin pusher system (11).

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