Handle

Abstract

handle that has a set of elements (7) wherein each element (7) has teeth (11) on its outer contour, a set of spacers (8) wherein each spacer (8) has a flat outer contour, an alternating arrangement of the toothed elements (7) and the spacers (8), in which, in the alternating arrangement, at least the tips (111) of each toothed element (7) of the set protrude between 0.0001 mm and 1 mm from a common level of the outer contours of the adjacent spacers (8), in which the outer contours of the alternating serrated elements (7) and spacers (8) form a gripping surface (6).

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a handle. background

[0002] Handles are typically part of an object or attached to it to allow the object to be held, moved, or carried. Handles are often made of foam or rubber. These materials provide a pleasant feel. However, when it comes to holding, securing, or controlling the object, the user experiences limited grip due to the elastic materials used. Alternatively, handles can be made of a hard material such as wood or metal. The smooth surface of such handles, however, also provides the user with poor grip and / or control. Description of the invention

[0003] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a handle with improved grip.

[0004] This problem is solved by a handle with the features of claim 1. The handle comprises a set of elements, each element having serrations on its outer contour. The handle further comprises a set of spacers, each spacer having a flat outer contour. The serrated elements and the spacers are arranged alternately. In this alternating arrangement, for each element of the set, the tips of the serrations project between 0.0001 mm and 1 mm from a common level of the outer contours of the adjacent spacer elements. The outer contours of the alternating elements and spacers form a gripping surface.

[0005] Accordingly, a gripping surface is created where at least the tips of the prongs protrude slightly from the surface of the adjacent spacers, thereby increasing the grip of the handle and, consequently, the grip of the object to which the handle belongs or to which the handle is attached. The protruding tips of the prongs adhere better to the user's skin, especially the user's hand, when gripping or holding the handle. The prongs increase friction on the user's skin and prevent the user from slipping on the surface of the handle.In a preferred embodiment, at least the serrated elements, and preferably both the serrated elements and the spacers, are made of non-elastic material, so that the user experiences no compensating movement or even folding of the serrated elements, nor any immersion into the handle, and preferably also no offset of the surface of the handle relative to a support for the handle surface, which offset is particularly disadvantageous when the handle is used to control an object to which the handle belongs, or another object.

[0006] Advantageously, the set of toothed elements has at least two toothed elements, preferably more than ten toothed elements, preferably more than fifty toothed elements.

[0007] Preferably, the set of spacers comprises at least two spacers, preferably more than ten spacers, and preferably more than fifty spacers.

[0008] Preferably, the toothed elements and the spacers are stacked on top of each other. Preferably, a support carries the alternating arrangement. In another advantageous embodiment, the toothed elements and the spacers are fastened to one another, e.g., with an adhesive or another suitable fastener.

[0009] It is assumed that the outer contours of the serrated and spacer elements are gripped by the user, and therefore the surfaces are designed to provide the desired grip. The term "contour" is thus intended to denote both the outline of an element or spacer in profile view and the associated surface, particularly when referring to contour levels and / or the gripping area.

[0010] However, it is not necessary for the entire outer contour of the serrated element or each serrated element in the set to be provided with serrations. It may suffice that only a section of the serrated element(s) has serrations, specifically the section that is typically handled by the user. In another embodiment of the invention, however, the entire outer contour of the serrated element(s) is provided with serrations.

[0011] An inner contour of such a serrated element preferably has no serrations, assuming that this inner contour is not exposed for the user to grasp. Typically, such an inner contour will either be inaccessible, at least if the handle is attached to or integrated into the object to be handled, or, if it is accessible, not expected to be grasped.

[0012] The spacers have a flat outer contour. In this context, "flat" does not necessarily require a perfectly smooth surface, but also encompasses surfaces of spacers with a certain roughness or slight unevenness, which may be due, for example, to the manufacturing process used. In particular, the spacer, and especially its outer surface, may be knurled or contain slight unevenness, which may be intentionally introduced for design reasons. However, unevenness of the spacers is contraindicated in a functional context if the unevenness reaches such a degree that, for example, the serrations of the element would no longer protrude from the surfaces of the adjacent spacers.Therefore, a certain unevenness is permitted on the surfaces of the spacers, as long as this does not impair the grip introduced by the protruding teeth.

[0013] As defined for the serrated elements, it is not necessary for the spacers that the entire outer contour of each spacer element be planar. It is sufficient that at least one section of each spacer element has a planar surface, specifically that this section is located between the serrations of adjacent elements. In a preferred embodiment, however, the entire outer contour of each spacer element is planar. An inner contour of such a spacer element can also be planar or have a different surface characteristic, provided that this inner contour is not exposed for handling. Typically, such an inner contour will either be inaccessible, at least if the handle is attached to or integrated into the object being handled, or, if it is accessible, it will not be expected to be handled.

[0014] It is noted that serrated elements or spacers may be present outside their respective sets and may be arranged outside the alternating pattern, but this will not be considered further. In any case, as long as a section of alternating serrated elements and spacers exists with the intention of providing an improved user interface, other elements may also be added.

[0015] It is also noted that, in accordance with the above definition, the term "outer contour" is not understood to mean only the contour line itself, but also includes the outward-facing surface, since both the serrated elements and the spacers have a certain thickness. Serrated elements and spacers have an exposed surface, which is to be included in the concept of the outer contour. The surfaces of the spacers are preferably flat, so that the arrangement of the spacers preferably provides a smooth transition between their surfaces, i.e., the contour surfaces. For this purpose, the adjacent contour surfaces are preferably at the same level. The flat transition is interrupted by the arrangement of a serrated element between two adjacent spacers. The tips of the serrations protrude from the otherwise flat surface.

[0016] In this respect, a point is to be understood as the portion of a prong that projects from the flat outer surface of two adjacent spacers. If the prong or each prong projects completely from the surface of the adjacent spacers, the point corresponds to the complete prong. If only part of the prong projects, only that part is referred to as the point, while the remainder of the prong lies hidden between the adjacent spacers.

[0017] In connection with the present invention, a handle is preferably part of an object or is attached to an object and is designed so that the object can be held, moved, carried or controlled with it.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, in the alternating arrangement, at least the tips of the teeth of each toothed element of the set protrude between 0.0001 mm and 0.2 mm, preferably between 0.05 mm and 0.15 mm, from the common level of the outer contours of the adjacent spacers. The resulting grip is pleasant, as the tips protrude only slightly, so the user is not pricked by the tips of the teeth. Therefore, the grip is designed to be mildly aggressive.

[0019] In another preferred design, however, with an alternating arrangement, the tips of the teeth of each toothed element of the set protrude between 0.2 mm and 1 mm from the common level of the outer contours of the adjacent spacers. This results in a more aggressive grip, as the tips protrude slightly further from the common surface of the adjacent spacers, thus creating a more aggressive gripping sensation for the user.

[0020] In a further development of the invention, the thickness of the spacer is greater than the thickness of the serrated element, preferably by a factor of at least four, preferably by a factor of at least ten, and preferably by a factor of five. This ratio influences both the user's haptic perception and the grip. The thicker the spacers, the further apart the serrations are. And the more aggressive the serrations are perceived to be, since the user's skin rests predominantly on the smooth surface of the spacers, whereas the serrations are arranged at relatively wide intervals along the longitudinal axis, resulting in a more aggressive sensation for the user. Nevertheless, the grip is improved.The thinner the spacers, the closer the teeth are to each other, and the less aggressive the teeth feel, as the user's skin rests predominantly on the teeth and not on the spacers due to the high-frequency arrangement of the teeth. This means that the small spacing of the teeth along the longitudinal axis of the handle results in a less aggressive feel for the user. Nevertheless, the grip is improved. Typically, and especially given the preferred choice of metal for the tooth elements, the tooth elements are preferably rather thin compared to the spacers. Preferably, the thickness of a tooth element is 0.05 mm or more, more preferably 0.1 mm or more, more preferably 0.2 mm. Preferably, the thickness of the tooth elements is less than 1 mm, more preferably less than 0.5 mm.

[0021] On the other hand, the thickness of the spacer is preferably 0.5 mm or greater, more preferably 1 mm or greater. Preferably, the thickness of the spacer is 10 mm or less, more preferably 5 mm or less. With regard to both the serrated elements and the spacers, the thickness is defined as the dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal extent or to the extent determined by the diameter.

[0022] Within the alternating arrangement of serrated elements and spacers, it is preferred that all serrated elements have the same thickness and the same outer contour, and that all spacers have the same thickness and the same outer contour. It is also preferred that all serrated elements have the same shape and are made of the same material, and that all spacers have the same shape and are made of the same material. This ensures a uniform handling surface, which improves grip and comfort. Preferably, all serrated elements in the set are identical, i.e., they have the same shape and are made of the same material. Preferably, all spacers in the set are identical, i.e., they have the same shape and are made of the same material.

[0023] For the same reason, it is preferred that the alternating arrangement has exactly one spacer between two toothed elements and exactly one toothed element between two spacers in a repeating manner. However, if, for example, a spacer cannot be manufactured in the required thickness but only in a smaller thickness, the alternating arrangement can also provide several spacers between the adjacent toothed elements.

[0024] As indicated above, the serrated elements are preferably made of metal, preferably titanium, preferably stainless steel, preferably medical-grade stainless steel, preferably SUS304, preferably SUS304H. This selection of materials enhances the stability of the serrated elements and the resistance of their tips to the user's skin. The serrated elements are manufactured, for example, by stamping or another suitable method.

[0025] The spacers are preferably made of plastic, wood, metal, cork, carbon fiber, rubber, or silicone. The material is selected based on its softness or hardness and the desired characteristics of the overall handle to achieve the desired ergonomics and grip. The spacers are preferably manufactured by injection molding, 3D printing, or another suitable method.

[0026] According to a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, both the elements and the spacers are disc-shaped. A disc is understood here as a flat component with a closed outer contour. "Flat" is defined as a disc whose outer diameter exceeds its thickness. With regard to the closed outer contour, it should be noted that the outer contour is defined as the gripping surface of the handle, which is exposed for gripping by a user. In contrast, the inner contour may be concealed after the handle is assembled or attached to a designated object.

[0027] Preferably, the outer contour of each disk is a circle. In another embodiment, the outer contour is a square, a rectangle, a hexagon, an octagon, or a polygon, or any other symmetrical or asymmetrical closed outer contour.

[0028] Accordingly, the elements are preferably discs with serrations. The spacers are preferably spacer discs. The preferred arrangement thus comprises alternating discs with serrations and spacer discs. Preferably, the spacer discs are circular, and the discs with serrations are also circular, but with the serrations on their outer contour.

[0029] Again, the outer contour, in the sense of the outer surface of the spacers, is flat. When the spacer with serrations is arranged with the protruding serrations between two spacers, the outer diameter, including the serrations, exceeds the outer diameter of the adjacent spacers by between 0.0002 mm and 2 mm, so that the tips of the serrations protrude from the otherwise flat transition between the contours of the two adjacent spacers. Accordingly, the tips protrude between 0.0001 mm and 1 mm from the surface of the spacers.

[0030] Many handles are elongated with a circular or other cross-section, defined, for example, by one of the aforementioned outer contours of the contributing discs, such as the handle of an umbrella, a fishing rod, a doorknob, a piece of sporting equipment like a walking stick, a tennis racket, a badminton racket, a golf club, a baseball bat, a cricket bat, a bicycle handlebar, an exercise machine, a ski pole, or an oar. In such applications, it is preferred that the handle has an alternating arrangement of serrated discs and spacer discs. Such types of handles are typically shaped so that they are fully or at least partially enclosed by the user's hand, with the fingers pointing in a first rotational direction and the thumb pointing in the other, opposite rotational direction.Preferably, the diameter of such a handle is between 1 cm and 8 cm, depending on the application. For example, the handle of a tennis racket usually has a larger diameter than the handle of an umbrella. The diameter is preferably determined by the outer diameters of the serrated discs, including the serrations themselves.

[0031] Preferably, a rod serves as a carrier for the serrated discs and the spacer discs. Therefore, the serrated discs and the spacer discs preferably each have a through-opening through which the rod can pass. The resulting serrated disc is thus a ring with serrations on its outer contour. The spacers preferably consist solely of a ring. In this respect, the serrated discs preferably have a toothed outer contour, whereas the spacer discs have a smooth outer contour.

[0032] To prevent the serrated discs and spacers from falling off the rod, a cover plate is preferably provided, which closes off the alternating arrangement of the serrated discs and spacers at one end of the rod. Such a cover plate can be detachably attached to the rod, for example, screwed into an internal or external thread of the rod, or pressed into an axial hole of the rod. In a further embodiment, and depending on the application, the opposite end of the rod is also covered by another cover plate. In another embodiment, the other end of the rod does not correspond to the end of the handle. Instead, the rod extends beyond the end of the handle. In such a case, a mechanical stop is preferably provided, which limits the arrangement of the serrated discs and spacers away from the cover plate.The pole can extend further, for example as the central axis of an umbrella, as the frame of a tennis racket, etc. The end plate or plates are preferably made of aluminum or plastic.

[0033] Preferably, the serrated discs and spacer discs are arranged on the rod without play. In a further development, this can be achieved by clamping the serrated discs and spacer discs between the end plate and the mechanical stop. Accordingly, an axial force is exerted on the alternating arrangement, which prevents the rotation of the serrated discs and spacer discs, at least when subjected to typical rotational forces by a user. In another embodiment, the inner diameter of the through-holes of both the serrated discs and the spacer discs is only slightly larger than the outer diameter of the rod, so that the discs are arranged on the rod in an interference fit. This also prevents rotation of the discs.In a further embodiment, mechanical means are provided on the rod and / or on the discs to prevent the discs from rotating. For example, a projection or lug is provided, preferably along the entire length of the rod, which extends into a corresponding recess on the inner contours of the discs, so that in an assembled state, the recesses in the discs accommodate the projection on the rod. This also prevents the discs from rotating on the rod.

[0034] In other training applications, it may be desirable for the discs, i.e., the serrated discs and the spacer discs, to be able to rotate on the rod. For example, the object may be a screwdriver where a front part of the handle is equipped with an anti-rotation arrangement of serrated discs and spacer discs, and a rear part of the handle, which rests in the hand, particularly in the palm of the user, is equipped with a rotating arrangement of serrated discs and spacer discs.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the number of serrated disks in the alternating arrangement is at least two, and the number of spacer disks in the alternating arrangement is at least two. Preferably, the number of serrated disks in the alternating arrangement is at least five, and the number of spacer disks in the alternating arrangement is at least five. Preferably, the number of serrated disks in the alternating arrangement is less than ten, and the number of spacer disks in the alternating arrangement is less than ten. Preferably, the number of serrated disks in the alternating arrangement is less than eight, and the number of spacer disks in the alternating arrangement is less than eight. Accordingly, the number of serrated disks and spacer disks is preferably each between two and eight, or between two and ten, or between five and eight, or between five and ten.Preferably, the associated length of the alternating arrangement is greater than 1 cm, preferably greater than 1.5 cm, preferably greater than 5 cm, preferably less than 3 cm, preferably, in combination, between 1 cm and 3 cm, preferably between 1.5 cm and 3 cm, preferably between 1 cm and 5 cm, preferably between 1.5 cm and 5 cm. Preferably, the outer diameter of the serrated discs is greater than 3.5 cm, preferably greater than 4 cm, preferably greater than 4.5 cm, preferably less than 7 cm. In such a further embodiment, the support is a rod on which the serrated discs and the spacer discs are alternately arranged. It is preferred that the outer diameter of the rod be rather large, for example, greater than 3 cm, for example, greater than 3.5 cm, for example, greater than 4 cm. Such a rod can be made of plastic, metal, or wood.In a further development of the invention, the rod is hollow and has an internal spoke structure in the form of a rim, wherein the alternating arrangement of discs with teeth and spacers represents a tire for the rim, all in miniature. Such a handle is preferably arranged with a center point of the rim on a preferably rotatable pin and rigidly coupled, so that rotations of the handle represent a control input for an electronic device, such as a control unit for controlling miniature or non-miniature vehicles, ships, aircraft, drones, or even controllers for video games, simulators, etc.

[0036] In another preferred embodiment, the length of the alternating arrangement of discs with serrations and spacer discs is greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm, preferably less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm, and preferably less than 15 cm. In a preferred embodiment, the length of the alternating arrangement is between 5 cm and 15 cm.

[0037] Such alternating arrangements are preferably used for handles that can be gripped by the user's entire hand and offer excellent grip. Preferably, the proposed number of serrated discs and spacer discs is as follows to achieve these preferred lengths of the alternating arrangements. Preferably, the number of serrated discs in the alternating arrangement is at least ten and the number of spacer discs is at least ten. Preferably, the number of serrated discs in the alternating arrangement is at least fifteen and the number of spacer discs is at least fifteen. Preferably, the number of serrated discs in the alternating arrangement is at least forty and the number of spacer discs is at least forty. Preferably, the number of serrated discs in the alternating arrangement is at least fifty and the number of spacer discs is at least fifty.Preferably, the number of serrated disks in the alternating arrangement is at least sixty, and the number of spacer disks is at least sixty. Preferably, the number of serrated disks in the alternating arrangement is at least eighty, and the number of spacer disks is at least eighty. Preferably, the number of serrated disks in the alternating arrangement is at least one hundred, and the number of spacer disks is at least one hundred. Regarding the preferred maximum numbers of serrated disks and spacer disks in the alternating arrangement, the number of serrated disks is preferably less than one hundred and twenty, and the number of spacer disks is less than one hundred and twenty. Preferably, the number of serrated disks is less than eighty, and the number of spacer disks is less than eighty.Preferably, the number of serrated discs and the number of spacer discs are less than fifty. Preferably, the number of serrated discs and the number of spacer discs are sixty. Preferably, the outer diameter of the serrated discs in such an alternating arrangement is greater than 2 cm, preferably less than 7 cm.

[0038] Regarding the number of teeth per disc, it is preferred to provide at least sixty, preferably at least eighty, and preferably at least one hundred teeth per disc. This indicates a dense arrangement of teeth in a disc. The distance between the tips of two adjacent teeth is preferably between 0.5 mm and 3 mm, more preferably between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm, and more preferably 1 mm. Preferably, the teeth project between 1 mm and 2 mm from the ring of the disc, more preferably between 1.6 mm and 1.6 mm. Preferably, each tooth has a sharp tip. Each tip has an angle of less than 45°, more preferably less than 20°, more preferably less than 15°, and more preferably between 13° and 14°. In this respect, the teeth, and especially their tips, are tiny, sharp structures, also considering the small thickness of the disc.This allows for a large number of points to be incorporated into a single handle, for example, several hundred points, with each individual point having little impact on the grip. However, in combination, the handle's roughness is significantly increased, which enhances grip, handling, and control over the object to which the handle is attached. The dimensions of the points or prongs, and their other properties, are equally applicable to non-disc-shaped prong elements.

[0039] According to a further embodiment of the invention, each element has a longitudinal section and a curved section. In this respect, such an element is not disc-shaped. The curved section preferably extends from one end of the longitudinal section. Another curved section may extend from the other end of the longitudinal section. Each spacer also has a longitudinal section and a curved section. Another curved section may extend from the other end of the longitudinal section. In a further embodiment of the invention, such a handle is designed as a casing for an object that is to be held. In particular, such a handle is a casing for a mobile phone. This casing is attached to the mobile phone so that it can be gripped more securely and is less likely to be dropped.In such a scenario, the grip's shape can resemble that of a conventional mobile phone case. It attaches to the back of the phone, protecting both the back and sides. Unlike traditional phone cases, the outer contour of this case is formed by the grip, which features spikes protruding from the otherwise flat surface.

[0040] In particular, the associated serrated elements are made of metal, so that the associated points ensure good adhesion to the user's skin when they hold the mobile phone by its case, which corresponds to the grip. Brief description of the drawings

[0041] Further embodiments, advantages, and applications of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and from the following description with reference to the figures. These figures show: Fig. 1 a part of a handle according to a further development of the present invention, in diagram a) in a perspective view, in diagram b) in a cutaway view; Fig. 2 a finishing plate of a handle according to Fig. 1 in side view; Fig. 3. Pull the handle rod towards Fig. 1, in diagram a) in a transparent sectional view, in diagram b) in a perspective view; Fig. 4 a disc with teeth as in a handle after Fig. 1 is used, in diagram a) in a top view, in diagram b) in a side view; Fig. 5 a spacer washer as in a handle after Fig. 1 is used, in diagram a) in a top view, in diagram b) in a side view; Fig. 6 a top view of a section of a handle, according to a further development of the present invention; Fig. 7 an enlarged section from Fig. 6a); Fig. 8 a top view of a section of a grip surface of a handle, according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 a perspective view of part of a grip surface of a handle, according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 10 a perspective view of part of a grip surface of a handle, according to another embodiment of the invention; Fig. 11 a further handle according to an embodiment of the present invention, in diagram a) in a perspective view, in diagram b) in a cutaway view; Fig. 12 a spacer washer as in the embodiment shown in Fig. 12 used, in diagram a) in a top view, in diagram b) in a side view; Fig. 13 a disc with teeth as in the embodiment shown in the following Fig. 12 used, in diagram a) in a top view, in diagram b) in a side view; Character description

[0042] Identical elements are identified across figures by the same reference symbols.

[0043] Fig. Figure 1 shows a part of a handle according to a further development of the present invention. In diagram 1a), the part of the handle is shown in a perspective view, in diagram 1b) in a cutaway perspective view.

[0044] The handle comprises a cylindrically shaped rod 3 with a hollow interior and a thread 31 on the inner surface at one end of the rod 3. An end plate 4 has a cover 42 and a base body 41. The base body 41 is cylindrical and has a thread 421 on its outer surface. The end plate 4 is tightened onto the rod 3 by means of the threads 31 and 421, so that the end plate 4 is screwed into the interior of the rod 3.

[0045] The rod 3 has an alternating arrangement of serrated discs 1 and spacer discs 2 along its outer contour, wherein along axis AA' each serrated disc 1 is followed by exactly one spacer disc 2 and each spacer disc 2 by exactly one serrated disc 1. Accordingly, the serrated discs 1 and the spacer discs 2 each have through-holes that allow their arrangement on the rod 3. For this reason, both the serrated discs 1 and the spacer discs 2 have the same inner diameter D. 1tin and D 2tin which slightly exceed the outer diameter of rod 3, so that the serrated discs 1 and the spacer discs 2 can be threaded onto rod 3. In the event that the inner diameters D 1tin and D 2tinSince the outer diameter of the discs 1 with teeth and the spacer discs 2 only slightly exceeds that of the rod 3, the discs 1 with teeth and the spacer discs 2 can be fitted onto the rod 3 in a press fit.

[0046] The outer contours of the discs with serrations 1 and the spacer discs 2 are shown in the Fig. 4 ff explained. In any case, the alternating outer contours of the discs 1 with teeth and the spacer discs 2 form a gripping surface 6 of the handle.

[0047] The length of the alternating handle arrangement, including the end plate 4, along the longitudinal axis AA' is 143 mm. The length of the entire object handled by means of the handle can be significantly greater than the length of the alternating handle arrangement.

[0048] Fig. Figure 2 shows the end plate 4 of the handle. Fig. Figure 1 shows a side view. The end plate 4 is preferably made from a single piece, preferably of aluminum. The thread 421 on the outer contour of the base body 42 is visible. It currently has six turns, which are considered sufficient to fasten the end plate 4 to the rod 3 in a secure, permanent, but releasable manner.

[0049] Fig. Figure 3 shows a rod of the handle made of Fig. 1, in diagram a) in a sectional view, in diagram b) in a perspective view. The rod has a length l of 131.6 mm. The internal thread 31 is visible at its lower end in the sectional view. At the upper end of the rod 3, a mechanical stop 5 is visible for the alternating arrangement of serrated discs 1 and spacer discs 2, which are mounted on the rod 3. During manufacturing, the serrated discs 1 and the spacer discs 2 are threaded onto the rod 3 from their lower ends. Once this process is complete, the end plate is screwed into the rod 3.

[0050] Fig. 4 shows a disc with teeth as they are in the handle after Fig. 1 is used. Diagram a) shows it in a top view, diagram b) in a side view. The disc 1 with teeth has a through-opening 13, so that the disc 1 with teeth is represented by a circular ring 12 with teeth 11 on its outer circular contour. The number of teeth 11 is considerable, in this case about one hundred teeth 11. The teeth 11 all have the same sharp shape, i.e., each tooth 11 has a sharp point 111 at its end. As indicated, the point 111 encloses an angle of currently 13.68°. In the present example, an outer diameter D is 1out The disc 1 with teeth, including the teeth 11, i.e., from one end of the tip 111 of one tooth 11 to the end of the tip 111 of the opposite tooth 11, is 37 mm. An inner diameter D 1tin The inner diameter of the ring-shaped disc 1 with teeth, i.e., the inner diameter of the ring 12, is, in this case, an exemplary D. 1tin= 33.8 mm. The height ht of the teeth / of each tooth is currently 1.51 mm, whereas the thickness h1 of the disk 1 with teeth is currently 0.2 mm, as can be derived from diagram 3b).

[0051] Fig. 5 shows a spacer washer as it is used in the handle after Fig. 1 is used. Diagram a) shows a top view, diagram b) a side view. The spacer disk 2 preferably has the shape of a ring 21, which is defined by a through-opening 22 in the spacer disk 2. In contrast to disk 1 with serrations, spacer disk 2 has no serrations on its outer circular contour. In the present example, an outer diameter D is 2out = 36.8 mm. An inner diameter D 2in The inner diameter of the ring-shaped spacer 2, i.e., the inner diameter of the ring 21, is 31 mm and is therefore the same as the inner diameter D. 1inThe disk 1 has serrations. The thickness h2 of the spacer disk 2, i.e. its width, is 1 mm, as can be seen from diagram 4b).

[0052] As already shown from the exemplary dimensions of disc 1 with teeth and spacer disc 2 from the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 can be derived, the inner diameters D 2in and D 1tin Preferably the same size, since the discs 1 with teeth and the spacer discs 2 are to be threaded onto a rod 3. The outer diameter D 2out The spacer washer 2 is slightly smaller than the outer diameter D. 1out The disc 1 has serrations, i.e., by 0.2 mm. This is the amount of friction that occurs between the hand and the handle when a user grips the handle. Accordingly, D 1out less D 2out relevant for the friction and haptic properties of the grip surface 6, which is in Fig. Figure 1 shows this dimension. This dimension is determined by the upper ends of the teeth 11, which protrude from the otherwise flat or smooth surfaces of the outer contours of the spacers 2 when they are arranged in series along the rod 3. In other words, the tips 111 of the teeth 11 protrude from the outer contour surfaces of the adjacent spacers 2, which surfaces are at the same level.

[0053] In this case, the outer diameter D exceeds 2out the outer diameter D of the spacer washer 2 1tin of the ring 12 of the disk 1 with teeth considerably. In this respect, the teeth 11 dip to a certain extent into the space between the two adjacent spacer disks 2, in this case by way of example D 1tin -D 2in = 3 mm. This increases the stability of the teeth 11 and prevents them from breaking.

[0054] The virtual dashed lines between the Fig. 4a) and Fig. 5a) should the same inner diameters D 2in and D 1tin The diagrams show the dimensions required to line up the serrated discs 1 and the spacer discs 2 on the common rod 3 with a uniform diameter. When arranging the serrated discs 1 and the spacer discs 2, the projection of the outer diameter D determines the dimensions. 2out The spacer disc 2 with its serrations clearly shows that the tips 111 of the serrations 11 protrude beyond the spacer disc 2. The protruding dimension is D 1out - D 2out = 37 mm - 38.8 mm = 0.2 mm = 0.1 mm per point 111. Accordingly, of a prong 1 with a height ht = 1.51 mm, only its point with a height of 0.1 mm protrudes from the flat surfaces of the adjacent spacer washers 2.

[0055] This is in Fig. Figure 6 shows in more detail which figure shows a top view of a section of a handle according to an embodiment of the present invention. This sectional view shows an exemplary quarter of a disc 1 with serrations, for example the disc 1 with serrations made of Fig. 4 and the associated arrangement of a spacer washer 2, for example the spacer washer 2 made of Fig. 5 below the disk 1 with serrations, along a longitudinal axis of an alternating arrangement. As can be seen, the serrations 2 do not protrude completely from the surface of the spacer disk 2, but only their tips 111.

[0056] Fig. Figure 7 shows an enlarged view of a section of the cross-sectional image from Fig. 6 containing four prongs 11, the radius of the ring 12 being neglected in the view. The diameters are shown schematically relative to a central point C. In this example, approximately half of the prong height ht protrudes from the surface of the adjacent spacer disks 2, while the other half of the prong height ht remains between the adjacent spacer disks 2. Furthermore, the angle β indicates the sharpness of the tip 111, since the angle β is small, approximately between 10° and 15°, in this case approximately 13°.

[0057] Fig. Figure 8 shows a top view of an enlarged section of a grip surface 6 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, five spacer discs 2 are shown in top view. A disc 1 with teeth is arranged between each pair of adjacent spacer discs 2. The reference numeral 11 indicates a tooth, whereas the line 111 indicates the tip of the tooth 11. If a lower section of the tooth 11 lies below the level of the adjacent spacer discs, the sections between the teeth 11 indicate grooves between the adjacent spacer discs 2.

[0058] Fig. Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a section of a grip surface 6 according to an embodiment of the invention, for example a partial section according to Fig. 8. In this embodiment, the alternating arrangement comprises three spacer discs 2 and two discs 1 with serrations, each of which is positioned between two adjacent spacer discs 2. Reference numeral 11 again designates the serrations and reference numeral 111 the tips of the serrations 11. It is evident that the serrations 11 project above a level of the associated ring, which level of the ring is lower than the level of the spacer discs 2. Accordingly, a gripping surface 6 is achieved in which the tips 111 of the serrations 11 protrude from a level of an otherwise flat surface of the spacer discs 2 in the micrometer or millimeter range. This creates a roughness on the gripping surface that allows a person to handle the grip more easily and to have greater control over it.

[0059] Fig. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a section of a grip surface 6 according to an embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the grip is no longer cylindrical but has a different shape. The elements 7, which have the prongs 11, and the spacers 8 each have a longitudinal section 71, 81, which is extended by a curved section 72, 82. In this embodiment, three spacers 8 and two prong elements 7 are again shown as examples, arranged between each pair of spacers 8. The prongs follow the basic shape of the element 7 of which they are a part. It is assumed that the prong elements 7 and the spacers 8 define a grip surface 6. Inner contours of the prong elements 7 and the spacers 8 can, for example, define a surface that rests on the object that is to be gripped or handled with such a grip.

[0060] For example, the section of a handle shown here contributes to a mobile phone casing, with the curved sections 72, 82 enclosing the edges of the mobile phone. Even in such an application, the grip of the handle, and therefore also the grip of the object to which the handle is attached, is significantly improved, particularly against slipping.

[0061] Fig. Figure 11 shows another handle according to an embodiment of the present invention. The handle is shown in perspective view in diagram a) and in a cutaway view in diagram b). The handle has a cylindrical rod 3 in the form of a rim.

[0062] The rim-like rod 3 has a rigid outer cylinder wall 34, a bushing 33 and spokes 32 between the bushing 33 and the outer cylinder wall 34. On the outer cylinder wall 34, discs 1 with teeth and spacer discs 2 are arranged alternately, as can be seen in particular from diagram 11b).

[0063] A stop 5 for the alternating arrangement is integrated into the outer cylinder wall 34. The stop 5 prevents the discs from falling off the rod 3. The stop 5 is located at the lower end of the rod 3, whereas an end plate 4 is attached to the rod 3 at its upper end after the alternating arrangement has been mounted on the rod 3. The end plate 4 is pressed onto the upper end of the outer cylinder wall 32 and remains there in an interference fit.

[0064] The handle shown has seven spacer discs 2 and eight discs 1 with serrations. The handle serves as a steering wheel for controlling an electronic device. Preferably, the handle is mounted on a pin of, for example, an electronic control unit, such as a remote control unit, by means of its socket 33. For example, the pin is mounted in the electronic control unit, and its rotation is measured and converted into an electrical signal. Such an electrical signal can be used to control, for example, a miniature car, or even a non-miniature car, a ship, a drone, a crane, or, for example, a video game, a simulator, etc. The shape of the present handle resembles a car wheel, with the shaft in particular being designed like a rim. The alternating arrangement creates a gripping surface that can be precisely controlled, i.e., rotated, due to the protruding points.The improved grip results in extremely precise control of the handle's rotation, angle, speed, and acceleration. Therefore, this handle is an ideal control element for remote controls, both wired and wireless, especially for controlling electronic equipment.

[0065] A length 1 of the alternating arrangement of the handle without the end plate 4 is rather short, for example between 3 cm and 5 cm.

[0066] Fig. Figure 12 shows a spacer washer as it is used in a handle after Fig. 11 is used. In diagram a), it is shown in plan view, in diagram b) in side view. The spacer disk 2 preferably has a ring 21 defined by a through-opening 22 in the spacer disk 2. The spacer disk 2 has a flat outer, circular surface. In the present example, an outer diameter D 2outSpecified as 43 mm. An inner diameter D 2in The inner diameter of the ring-shaped spacer 2, i.e., the inner diameter of the ring 21, is 34.94 mm. The thickness h2 of the spacer 2, i.e., its width, is 1.6 mm, as can be derived from diagram 12b). Accordingly, the outer diameter of the handle rod 3 is approximately 34.9 mm.

[0067] The ring 21 of the spacer disk 2 has six indentations 23 on its inner contour. These indentations 23 serve as a stop against rotation.

[0068] Fig. Figure 13 shows a disc 1 with teeth as they are in a handle after Fig. 11 is used. In diagram a) it is shown in plan view, in diagram b) in side view.

[0069] The disc 1 with teeth has a through-opening 13, such that the disc 1 is formed by a circular ring 12 with teeth on its outer, circular contour. The number of teeth 11 is considerable, in this case more than one hundred teeth 11. In the present example, an outer diameter D 1out The disc 1, including the teeth 11, i.e., from one end of a tooth tip 111 to the end of the tooth tip 111 of the opposite tooth 11, is specified as 43.4 mm. An inner diameter Dt 1in The inner diameter of the ring-shaped disc 1 with teeth, i.e., the inner diameter of the ring 12, is, in this example, 35 mm.

[0070] The thickness h1 of the disk 1 with teeth, that is its width, is in this case 0.2 mm as can be derived from diagram 13b).

[0071] The ring 12 of the disc 1 with teeth has six indentations 14 on its inner contour. These indentations serve as a stop against rotation. It is assumed that the outer cylindrical wall 34 of the rod 3 is made of Fig. 11 has six projections along its longitudinal extent, so that both the spacer discs 2 and the discs 1 with teeth are aligned on the outer cylindrical wall 34 in a correct, rotationally secure position. At the same time, the projection-recess combination acts as a lock against rotation on the rod 3.

Claims

[1] Handle which has a set of elements (7) wherein each element (7) has teeth (11) on its outer contour, a set of spacers (8) wherein each spacer (8) has a flat outer contour, an alternating arrangement of the toothed elements (7) and the spacers (8), in which, in the alternating arrangement, at least the tips (111) of each toothed element (7) of the set protrude between 0.0001 mm and 1 mm from a common level of the outer contours of the adjacent spacers (8), in which the outer contours of the alternating serrated elements (7) and spacers (8) form a gripping surface (6). [2] Handle according to claim 1, in which the thickness of the spacer (8) is greater than the thickness of the toothed element (7), preferably by a factor of at least four, preferably by a factor of at least ten, preferably by a factor of five, preferably in which the thickness is the dimension orthogonal to the longitudinal extent or extension of the diameter of the toothed element (7) or the spacer (8), preferably where the thickness of the spacer (8) is 0.5 mm or greater, preferably 1 mm or greater, preferably where the thickness of the spacer (8) is 10 mm or less, preferably 5 mm or less, preferably where the thickness of the toothed element (7) is 0.05 mm or greater, preferably 0.1 mm or greater, preferably 0.2 mm, preferably where the thickness of the toothed element (7) is less than 1 mm, preferably less than 0.5 mm, preferably in which all toothed elements (7) have the same thickness and the same outer contour, preferably where all spacers (8) have the same thickness and the same outer contour, preferably in which all toothed elements (7) have the same shape and are made of the same material, preferably in which all spacers (8) have the same shape and are made of the same material. [3] According to one of the preceding claims, wherein the alternating arrangement comprises a repeated sequence of exactly one spacer (8) between two adjacent toothed elements (7) and exactly one toothed element (7) between two adjacent spacers (8). [4] Reaching according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the toothed elements (7) are made of metal, preferably of stainless steel, preferably of medical-grade stainless steel, preferably of SUS304, preferably of SUS304.H, where the spacers (8) are made of one of the following materials: plastic, wood, metal, cork, carbon fiber, rubber, silicone. [5] Handle according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in the alternating arrangement for each toothed element (7) from the set at least the tips (111) of its teeth (11) protrude between 0.01 mm and 0.2 mm, preferably between 0.05 mm and 0.15 mm from a common level of the outer contours of the adjacent spacers (8). [6] Handle according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, wherein in the alternating arrangement for each toothed element (7) from the set at least the tips (111) of its teeth (11) protrude between 0.2 mm and 1 mm, preferably between 0.05 mm and 0.15 mm from a common level of the outer contours of the adjacent spacers (8). [7] Reaching for one of the preceding claims, in which the serrated elements (7) are designed as discs (1) with serrations, in which the spacers (8) are designed as spacer washers (2), in which the outer diameter of each disc with teeth, including the teeth (11), is between 0.0002 mm and 2 mm larger than the outer diameter of the adjacent spacer discs (2), preferably in which the discs (1) with serrations and the spacer discs (2) each have the same inner diameter defined by a through-opening (13,22), preferably in which each disc (1) with teeth has a ring (12) and teeth (11) that project from an outer contour of the ring (12), preferably wherein each spacer disk (2) has a ring (21) or consists of a ring (21), preferably in which an outer diameter of adjacent spacer disks (2) is larger than an outer diameter of the ring (12) of the intermediate disk (1) with teeth, preferably in which an outer diameter of adjacent spacer disks (2) is equal to an outer diameter of the ring (12) of the disk (1) arranged between them with teeth. [8] Handle according to claim 7, comprising a rod (3) as a support for the discs (1) with teeth and the spacer discs (2), in which the discs (1) have serrations and the spacer discs (2) each have a through-opening (13,22), in which the rod (3) passes through the openings (13, 22) of the discs (1) with teeth and the spacer discs (2), preferably in which the alternating arrangement and / or the rod (3) has means to prevent rotation of the serrated disks (1) and the spacer disks (7) around the rod (3). [9] Handle according to claim 8, comprising a closing plate (4) which closes off the alternating arrangement at one end of the rod (3), preferably in which the closing plate (4) is detachably attached to the rod (3), and a mechanical stop (5) for the alternating arrangement of discs (1) with teeth and spacer discs (2) as limiters located away from the end plate (4), preferably at the other end of the rod (3), preferably in which the discs (1) are arranged with teeth and the spacer discs (2) are arranged without play on the rod (3), preferably in which the discs (1) with teeth and the spacer discs (2) are clamped between the end plate (4) and the stop (5) with a force which prevents rotation of the discs with teeth (7) and the spacer discs (8) around the rod (3). [10] Handle according to any one of the preceding claims 7 to 9, where the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least two and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least two, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least five and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least five, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is less than ten and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is less than ten, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is less than eight and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is less than eight, preferably in which the length of the alternating arrangement of discs (1) with teeth and spacer discs (2) is greater than 1 cm, preferably greater than 1.5 cm, preferably less than 5 cm, preferably less than 3 cm, preferably in which the outer diameter of the discs (1) with serrations is greater than 3 cm, preferably greater than 3.5 cm, preferably greater than 4 cm, preferably less than 7 cm. [11] Handle according to any one of the preceding claims 7 to 9, where the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least ten and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least ten, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least fifteen and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least fifteen, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least forty and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least forty, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least fifty and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least fifty, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least sixty and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least sixty, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least eighty and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least eighty, preferably in which the number of disks (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is at least one hundred and the number of spacer disks (2) in the alternating arrangement is at least one hundred. [12] Handle according to claim 11, where the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is less than one hundred and twenty and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is less than one hundred and twenty, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is less than eighty and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is less than eighty, preferably in which the number of discs (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is sixty and the number of spacer discs (2) in the alternating arrangement is sixty, preferably in which the number of disks (1) with teeth in the alternating arrangement is less than fifty and the number of spacer disks (2) in the alternating arrangement is less than fifty. [13] Reach according to claim 11 or claim 12, in which the length of the alternating arrangement of discs (1) with teeth and spacer discs (2) is greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm, preferably less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm, preferably less than 15 cm, where the outer diameter of the discs (1) with serrations is greater than 2 cm, preferably less than 7 cm. [14] Handle according to any one of the preceding claims 7 to 13, wherein the number of teeth (11) per disk (1) is at least sixty, preferably at least eighty, preferably at least one hundred, preferably in which the distance between the tips (111) of two adjacent teeth (11) in the direction of rotation is between 0.5 mm and 3 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm, preferably 1 mm, preferably in which the teeth (11) protrude between 1 mm and 2 mm from the ring (12) of the disc (1), preferably between 1.5 mm and 1.6 mm, preferably in which each prong (11) has a sharp point (111), preferably in which each tip (111) has an angle of less than 45°, preferably less than 20°, preferably less than 15°, preferably between 13° and 14°. [15] Reach according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each toothed element (7) has a longitudinal section (71) and a curved section (72) at at least one end of the longitudinal section (71), preferably at both ends of the longitudinal section (71), wherein each spacer (8) has a longitudinal section (81) and a curved section (82) at at least one end of the longitudinal section (81), preferably at both ends of the longitudinal section (81), preferably where the handle is a covering for an object to be held, preferably where the handle is a case for a mobile phone.

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