Connecting element for a modular furniture system with tool-free locking mechanism

Abstract

Connecting element for the detachable connection of at least two plate-shaped elements (10) at a node, comprising a clamping element (1) and a main body (2), characterized in that the clamping element (1) and the main body (2) are axially slidable into one another, wherein in the slid-together state they are positively secured against unintentional loosening by at least one spring-loaded locking element, and wherein this locking mechanism engages without tools and is releasable by the action of a separate actuating element, in particular a pin.

Description

[0001] Technical field: The invention relates to a connecting element for the detachable joining of plate-shaped elements, in particular for the construction of modular shelving systems, partition walls or acoustic walls.

[0002] State of the art: In furniture construction, connectors are known that join multiple panels at a single point. Often, this requires a separate screw for each panel to be joined, or a central clamping element must be operated with a tool. This makes assembly time-consuming and labor-intensive. Furthermore, conventional connectors are often limited to hard materials and do not provide optimal support for soft or fibrous materials (such as non-woven fabrics) or smooth materials (such as glass).

[0003] Object of the invention: The invention aims to create a connecting element that enables extremely fast, tool-free and intuitive assembly ("click assembly"), ensures high stability through self-centering and is flexibly adaptable to a wide variety of materials (wood, non-woven fabric, glass). Furthermore, the connection should lock invisibly and be easily detachable.

[0004] Solution to the problem and description of the invention: This problem is solved by a connecting element with the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0005] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings: • Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the connecting element according to the invention in the assembled state. • Fig. Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the connecting element with clamping element, main body and locking mechanism. • Fig. Figure 3 shows a sectional view of the connecting element, illustrating the interlocking of the components and the securing by the locking element.

[0006] The system according to the invention consists of an outer clamping element (1) and an inner main body (2). Instead of a screw, these components utilize an axial sliding mechanism. They have corresponding conical or wedge-shaped guide surfaces. When pushed together, the components self-center and generate the necessary stability.

[0007] The connection is secured by an integrated spring-loaded locking element (clip / snap hook). Once the end position is reached, this element audibly clicks into place, positively locking the connection and preventing it from being pulled apart. The connection is invisible from the outside. To release it, a simple actuating element (e.g., a thin pin) is inserted into a small opening to unlock the locking mechanism.

[0008] A key advantage is the adaptability of the clamping surfaces to the panel material: * For fibrous materials (e.g. acoustic fleece), the clamping surfaces have a profile of saw teeth or barbs. * Ribs or notches are provided for soft woods. * For hard, smooth materials (e.g. glass, metal), a rubberized or friction-enhancing surface may be provided. * For standard wooden boards, cams (4) can be used for locking in holes. Reference symbol list 1 clamping element 2 main bodies 4 cams (locking element) 5 groove (receptacle for panel element) 6 guide surfaces (cone / wedge surfaces) 10 Panel-shaped element (furniture panel / wall element) 11 Recess (in the plate element)

Claims

Connecting element for the detachable connection of at least two plate-shaped elements (10) at a node, comprising a clamping element (1) and a main body (2), characterized in that the clamping element (1) and the main body (2) are axially slidable into one another, wherein in the slid-together state they are positively secured against unintentional loosening by at least one spring-loaded locking element, and wherein this locking mechanism engages without tools and is releasable by the action of a separate actuating element, in particular a pin. Connecting element according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the clamping surfaces has a structured or coated surface, in particular in the form of saw teeth, barbs, ribs or notches (for positive locking with soft / fibrous materials such as nonwovens or softwood) or a non-slip rubber coating or friction lining (for frictional locking with hard materials such as glass or metal) to prevent the plate-shaped elements from slipping. Connecting element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that corresponding conical or wedge-shaped guide surfaces (6) are arranged between the clamping element (1) and the main body (2), which interlock when the components are pushed together and provide positive locking stabilization and centering of the components relative to each other. Connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has at least one cam (4) on its clamping surfaces which is designed for positive locking in a corresponding recess (11) of a plate-shaped element (10). Connecting element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is designed to connect three plate-shaped elements (10) at an angle of 120 degrees to each other. Connecting element according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it is designed for connecting two plate-shaped elements (10), wherein its grooves (5) are arranged at an angle of 90 degrees to each other. Connecting element according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it is designed for connecting two plate-shaped elements (10), wherein its grooves (5) are arranged at an angle of 180 degrees to each other. Modular furniture system comprising a plurality of plate-shaped elements (10) and a plurality of connecting elements according to one of the preceding claims.

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