Tool

Abstract

Hand-held tool (1), comprising a base body (2), with an operating geometry (3) formed on the base body (2) for the mechanical unlocking of a shopping cart deposit mechanism, with at least one slot (4) formed in the base body (2), and with a fastening element (5) for detachable attachment to a key ring, characterized in that the slot (4) is arranged and geometrically designed in the base body (2) in such a way that it is freely accessible when the base body (2) is attached to the key ring and allows relative movement between the base body (2) and a tick guided under the slot (4), by which the tick can be removed from the skin without the base body (2) having to be detached from the key ring.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a hand-held tool designed as a shopping cart release tool that can be permanently carried on a key ring, wherein the tool additionally has an integrated function for the mechanical removal of ticks by means of a slot geometry.

[0002] In technical settings, shopping cart release tools are known, typically designed as compact, robust devices with a mechanism for unlocking a shopping cart deposit system. Such tools are often carried permanently on a key ring.

[0003] In addition, tick removers are known, particularly slotted tools that grasp a tick and remove it from the skin by a relative movement. However, these known tick removers are typically designed for free handling and require that the tool be held, positioned, and moved with precision. This results in the practical difficulty that known slotted tick removers are either unusable or only partially functional when forced into a position such as that imposed by attachment to a keyring.

[0004] One object of the present invention is to provide a tool that combines the functions of a shopping cart release tool and a slit tick remover, and in which tick removal is possible reliably and reproducibly even when the tool is in a state attached to the key ring during use.

[0005] This task is solved by a hand-held tool according to claim 1.

[0006] According to the invention, the tool comprises a base body, an operating geometry formed on the base body for the mechanical unlocking of a shopping cart deposit mechanism, at least one slot formed in the base body, and a fastening element for detachable attachment to a key ring. The slot is arranged in the base body and geometrically designed such that it is freely accessible when the base body is attached to the key ring and allows relative movement between the base body and a tick inserted under the slot, without the base body having to be detached from the key ring.

[0007] The technical effect of the solution according to claim 1 consists in the fact that the slot function is not designed for an idealized state of free, fully movable tool handling, but explicitly for the actual operating state in which the base body is held on the key ring via the fastening element. The base body is thus in a kinematically constrained position determined by the fastening element, in which its mobility is limited. Despite this limitation, the arrangement and design of the slot according to the invention allows controlled relative movement between the slot and the tick. This ensures that the tick removal function is independent of whether the base body is held freely or fastened.

[0008] This technical design offers several complementary advantages. A primary advantage is the reduction in required operating steps, as removing the tool from the keyring is unnecessary. This shortens the operating process and reduces the likelihood of incorrect operation or loss of individual components. A further advantage is the constant availability of the tick removal function, since shopping cart release tools are typically carried at all times. Moreover, the solution is particularly robust because tick removal is achieved via a purely geometric slot structure without any moving parts, minimizing susceptibility to contamination, wear, or misalignment. Additionally, the keyring attachment can act as a mechanical counter-bearing, ensuring stable guidance of the main body during relative movement and allowing for various directions of motion.Finally, the open design with regard to material, shape and manufacturing process allows for a wide range of technical implementations without restricting the core of the invention - usability in the fixed state.

[0009] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims or can be seen from the following description and / or the accompanying figures. Use for keyring attachment

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot is arranged in the base body such that it is accessible without reorienting the base body when it is attached to the key ring (claim 2). "Without reorienting" means that the base body does not need to be deliberately rotated, tilted, or realigned to bring the slot into a functional position. Rather, the slot is already in a position where it can be engaged with a hook in the rest position of the base body determined by the key ring attachment. Technically, this means that the geometric position of the slot relative to the attachment element is chosen such that the slot is not obscured by gravity, attached keys, or the typical pendulum position. The technical effect is that the relative movement can be initiated immediately.The advantage lies in significantly simplified handling, especially under time pressure or when the user has limited mobility, as no preparatory alignment movements are required.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot is arranged in a zone of the base body spaced apart from the fastening element (claim 3). "Spaced apart" means that there is a spatial distance between the slot and the fastening element that is greater than the typical pivoting or movement radius of the keys or rings attached to the keyring. The slot is thus located outside the area affected by the fastening. Technically, this ensures that no mechanical interaction occurs between the slot area and the fastening element or attached objects during relative movement. This prevents movable elements of the keyring, in particular keys or key rings, from entering the movement range of the slot. The relative movement is thus undisturbed.The advantage lies in a reproducible function independent of the number, mass or shape of the items attached to the keyring, in increased functional reliability and a lower risk of incorrect operation.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the arrangement is selected such that no contact between the fastening element and the skin is required during relative movement (claim 4). This means that the slot and the path of movement of the base body are positioned so that the fastening element does not serve as a contact or force transmission point. The skin only touches the slot area or the base body. Technically, this prevents friction, localized pressure loads, or unstable force transmission via the fastening element. Frictional and disruptive forces that could impair movement are avoided. The technical effect is a uniform, controlled force transmission. The advantage lies in greater user comfort and a reduced risk of injury or irritation. Types of relative motion

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the relative movement is essentially axial to the base body (claim 5). "Axial" is understood to mean a movement whose main component runs along an imaginary longitudinal axis of the base body. The slot is oriented such that the tick is guided along the slot by a movement in the direction of this axis. This technical solution enables direct force transmission along a main axis. This results in linear force transmission without significant transverse components. The technical effect is a controlled, precisely metered movement. The advantage lies in intuitive operation with high force transmission efficiency.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the relative movement is oblique to the base body (claim 6). "Oblique" is understood to mean that the direction of movement has an angle other than 0° and 90° to the main axis of the base body. The movement combines axial and lateral components. Technically, this allows for a deviation from the main axis and thus adaptation to anatomically unfavorable access points. The technical effect is greater freedom of movement and better adaptation to different body locations. The advantage lies in increased flexibility, in particular in improved applicability under variable geometric constraints.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the relative movement is essentially tangential to the base body (claim 7). "Tangential" is understood to mean a movement that proceeds along a circumferential contour or side surface of the base body. The tick is guided laterally along the slot. Technically, this enables a lateral sliding movement and thus a relative movement with minimal axial space. The advantage lies in improved applicability in confined spaces.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the relative movement comprises a combined pulling and sliding motion (claim 8). This means that the movement has both a component perpendicular to the skin surface and a lateral component along the skin. The tick is guided along the slit and simultaneously moved out of the skin. Technically, this results in a complex movement path with continuous guidance. The technical effect is a particularly reliable removal. The advantage lies in its high adaptability to different application situations and its versatile usability. Slot geometry

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot has a tapered width (claim 9).

[0018] This means that the distance between the slot edges decreases continuously or in sections in the direction of movement. This forces the tick to be guided. Technically, this results in a self-centering guide. The advantage lies in stable guidance regardless of the initial position and therefore in reliable function.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot is essentially V-shaped (claim 10). This refers to a geometry in which two inclined slot edges converge. Technically, this achieves progressive guidance. A symmetrical force distribution is created. The advantages lie in uniform load distribution, reproducible guidance, and stable handling.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot has several sections of different widths (claim 11). This means that the slot is designed in stages or segments. Technically, this allows for adaptation to different object sizes. Different tick sizes can be captured. The advantage lies in a broader range of applications and increased universality.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot edges are rounded (claim 12). "Rounded" means that the edges have a defined radius. Technically, this reduces stress concentrations, particularly notch stresses. The advantage lies in increased fatigue strength and smooth movement.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot edges are sharp-edged (claim 13). "Sharp-edged" means that the slot edges have a very small radius of curvature, which is significantly smaller than the typical thickness of the tick to be captured. Technically, this allows for more precise grasping along an edge. The advantage lies in improved capture and a defined contact line. "Grasping under" means that a body section of the tick, particularly in the area between the skin surface and body segments, is captured by the slot in such a way that the slot edge lies beneath this body section. "Precise grasping under" here means that the point of engagement is geometrically clearly defined and does not depend on a large contact area. The "contact line" is the linear contact zone between the slot edge and the tick's body.A "defined contact line" means that this contact occurs along a geometrically defined line and is not distributed across the surface or randomly. The tick is "captured" in the sense that it is guided by this linear contact in a form-fitting manner and prevented from moving relative to the surface. The technical effect lies in a very controlled force transmission. The advantage is high precision and reliable intervention. Position of the slot on the base body

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot is arranged on an outer edge of the base body (claim 14). "Outer edge" is understood to mean a contour of the base body that forms its outer boundary and is freely accessible, without any material of the base body lying between the slot and its surroundings. The slot thus opens directly into the outer contour of the base body. Technically, this means that the tick can be guided laterally to the base body without requiring insertion through an opening or cavity. The relative movement begins directly at the outer edge. The technical benefit is particularly direct accessibility of the slot, since no geometric obstacles or barriers need to be overcome.The advantage lies in a very simple and intuitive application as well as in a simplified production of the slot, for example by edge processing such as punching, milling or laser cutting.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot is not arranged on an outer edge of the base body (claim 15). This means that the slot lies completely within the outer contour of the base body and is at least partially surrounded by material of the base body. The slot is thus not directly part of the outer contour. Technically, the slot is positioned in a protected location. This results in a reduced risk of collision, in particular by shielding the slot against lateral impact, unintentional snagging, or bending. Relative movement is controlled within a geometry defined by the base body. The technical effect is increased mechanical stability of the slot area and reduced susceptibility to damage.The advantage lies in increased robustness in everyday use, especially when carried on a key ring, as well as in a lower risk of unintentional contact points. Slot at material cutout

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a material cutout is provided in the base body, wherein the slot is formed at an edge of this material cutout (claim 16). "Material cutout" is understood to mean a controlled removal of material, creating an opening or recess in the base body. The edge of the slot forms part of the boundary of this opening. Technically, this means that the slot does not end freely in the material, but rather adjoins a defined opening, along the edge of which the relative movement is guided. The tick is guided under the slot along this edge. The technical effect consists of a precisely defined guidance of the tick along the edge of the opening, with the opening serving as the space for the tick to move.The advantage lies in improved guidance reliability, as lateral deviations of the relative movement are limited by the geometry of the material cutout, as well as in better visibility and accessibility of the slot area.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cutout in the material is completely surrounded by the base body (claim 17). This means that the opening lies entirely within the outer contour of the base body and is bounded in all directions by material of the base body. It is therefore not an open-edged recess. Technically, this allows the loads generated when grasping and pulling out the tick to be distributed evenly around the opening into the base body. This increases structural integrity. The technical effect is a reduced notch effect and a more uniform stress distribution in the area of ​​the slot. The advantage lies in increased load-bearing capacity, structural stability, and higher fatigue strength, particularly with repeated use.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the material cutout is designed as a breakthrough (claim 18).

[0028] The term "penetration" refers to an opening that completely passes through the base body, connecting two opposing main surfaces of the base body. Technically, this allows the tick to partially or completely enter the penetration during its relative movement, thus creating additional freedom of movement. The technical effect is to relieve stress on the slot edge, as some of the kinetic energy can be dissipated into the free space of the penetration. The advantage lies in a particularly even distribution of force and easier cleaning of the slot area, since the penetration allows dirt or residue to pass through.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the material cutout is polygonal, oval, or circular (claim 19). This means that the boundary of the opening consists either of straight edges (polygonal), continuously curved contours (oval, circular), or combinations thereof. Technically, the choice of opening shape allows for targeted control of the stress distribution and guiding properties. For example, circular or oval openings result in particularly uniform stress distributions, while polygonal openings provide defined guiding edges. The technical benefit lies in the application- and manufacturing-friendly adaptability of the opening to the desired slot function. The advantage lies in a high degree of design freedom with consistent functionality, as well as in the ability to optimally adapt the opening to the material, manufacturing process, and mechanical loads. Assignment to the shopping cart release section

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the material cutout is provided in that section of the base body which has the functional geometry for the mechanical unlocking of a shopping cart deposit mechanism (claim 20). "That section of the base body" refers to the area which, when the tool is used as a shopping cart release, engages directly with the deposit mechanism of the shopping cart and is mechanically designed for this purpose. This section is typically dimensioned with respect to material thickness, dimensional stability, and force transmission capacity. Technically, both functions are spatially concentrated. The arrangement of the material cutout in this section means that the slot function is integrated into an area that is already designed to withstand high mechanical loads.The forces generated when grasping and pulling out the tick are thus transferred to a structurally reinforced area of ​​the base body. The technical benefit is that the tick removal function can be integrated into the base body without additional reinforcement measures and without compromising its mechanical reliability. The advantage lies in a compact design with a functional combination of both tool features, as well as in the efficient use of available installation space and material reserves.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the aforementioned section of the base body is essentially disc- or coin-shaped (claim 21). "Disc- or coin-shaped" is understood to mean a substantially rotationally symmetric or approximately rotationally symmetric geometry whose dimensions in the plane are significantly larger than in the thickness direction. This shape typically corresponds to the shape of known shopping cart release mechanisms. Technically, this geometry results in a large-area load distribution in the plane of the base body. Forces that occur when unlocking the shopping cart or removing the tick are distributed evenly over the disc surface. The technical effect is high bending and torsional stiffness of the section despite the small material thickness.The advantage lies in safe handling both when unlocking the shopping cart and when removing ticks, as well as in the suitability of this section as a carrier for the material cutout and the slot.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot and the working geometry are arranged in the same section of the base body (claim 22). This arrangement means that the slot function and the unlocking function are not spatially distributed across different areas of the base body, but are located in a common functional area. This area is designed to serve both as the engagement area for the shopping cart mechanism and as the handling and force transmission area for tick removal. Technically, this integration means that the user utilizes the same stable and easily accessible section of the base body for both functions. In both cases, the force is applied via the same structurally optimized area.The technical effect consists of increased structural stability and particularly efficient use of the base body's most stable geometry for both functions, without requiring additional reinforcements or separate functional areas. The advantage lies in improved ergonomics, as the user does not have to switch between different functional zones, as well as in a compact and material-saving design.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the material cutout lies completely or substantially completely within the aforementioned section of the base body (claim 23). "Completely within" means that the boundary of the material cutout is surrounded in all directions by material of this section and does not form a transition to adjacent, possibly thinner or differently shaped areas of the base body. Technically, this means that the tensile and bending forces generated when the tick is grasped and pulled out are absorbed exclusively within the mechanically resilient section. Edge zones or transition areas are relieved of stress or not subjected to additional loads. The technical effect is a minimization of local stress peaks and an increase in the structural integrity of the base body.The advantage lies in a particularly durable design that retains its mechanical integrity even with repeated use of the tick removal function. Orientation relative to the insertion direction

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot direction is oriented substantially parallel to the insertion direction of the base body when unlocking the shopping cart (claim 24). The "insertion direction" refers to the direction of movement along which the base body is inserted into or moved along the deposit mechanism during its intended use as a shopping cart release mechanism. The "slot direction" is the longitudinal extent of the slot, i.e., the direction along which a tab inserted under the slot is guided during relative movement. An substantially parallel orientation means that the angle between the slot direction and the insertion direction is so small that both directions of movement are functionally identical or at least do not interfere with each other.Technically, this design means that the hand position and movement of the base body typical for unlocking a shopping cart can also be used for tick removal. The relative movement for tick removal thus occurs along a direction of movement already familiar to the user from using the shopping cart release tool. The technical effect is a standardization of the movement sequences for both functions of the tool. The advantage lies in particularly intuitive operation, as no fundamental change in hand position or direction of movement is required between the two functions, as well as in improved force transmission along a familiar axis of movement.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot direction is oriented essentially perpendicular to the insertion direction of the base body (claim 25). "Perpendicular" means that the angle between the slot direction and the insertion direction is approximately 90 degrees. The direction of movement for tick removal is thus oriented transversely to the direction of movement of the shopping cart release mechanism. Technically, this arrangement ensures that the relative movement required for tick removal is independent of the insertion movement used for unlocking. This allows for alternative hand positions. For example, the base body can remain in a position typical for unlocking the shopping cart, while the relative movement for tick removal is performed laterally to it.The technical benefit lies in the fact that tick removal is possible even when the insertion direction is predetermined or restricted by structural or anatomical conditions. The advantage is increased flexibility of application, particularly in situations where movement along the insertion direction is not possible or only possible to a limited extent.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot direction is oriented obliquely to the insertion direction of the base body (claim 26). "Obliquely" means that the angle between the slot direction and the insertion direction is neither approximately 0 degrees nor approximately 90 degrees, but rather an intermediate value. The slot direction thus has both a component parallel and a component perpendicular to the insertion direction. Technically, this orientation allows for a combination of the advantages of parallel and perpendicular orientations. The relative movement can include both tensile and lateral movement components without either component dominating. The technical effect is a particularly versatile movement control that can be adapted to different access situations.The advantage lies in a high degree of ergonomic adaptability, as the user can perform the relative movement at a natural angle that results from the specific usage situation.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot is curved or configured with different orientations in sections (claim 27). "Curved" means that the slot direction is not straight, but follows a curved path, for example, an arc. "Different orientations in sections" means that the slot consists of several subsections, the respective slot directions of which have different angles to the insertion direction. Technically, this configuration ensures that the relative movement during tick removal is guided along a predetermined path that changes during the movement. The tick is thus guided stepwise along different directions of movement.The technical effect consists of guiding the tick along a more complex path, allowing the removal movement to be adapted to different anatomical conditions or access directions. The advantage lies in further improved ergonomics and the ability to design the relative movement so that it can be reliably performed even in very confined spaces or with awkward access directions. This increases ease of use. Multiple slots

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base body has several slots of different geometries (claim 28). "Several slots" means that two or more separate slot structures are provided on the same base body, each of which can be used independently as a tick removal slot. "Different geometries" means that these slots differ in at least one geometric feature, for example, in their width, length, taper, curvature, or orientation. Technically, this design allows the user to select, depending on the situation, one of the available slots whose geometry is best suited for the specific application. For example, one slot can be provided for very small ticks and another slot for larger ticks, or different slots can be optimized for different directions of movement.The technical effect lies in a functional expansion of the tool, as several different slotting functions are integrated into a single base body without the need for additional components. The advantage is a significantly increased versatility of the tool, since different application scenarios can be covered with the same base body, as well as improved usability under varying conditions.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the multiple slots are arranged on different edges of the same material section (claim 29). "Different edges of the same material section" means that a single material section or opening has multiple boundary edges and that a slot is formed on at least two of these edges. The slots are thus arranged close to each other spatially, but functionally separate from one another. Technically, this arrangement allows multiple slot functions to be implemented in a very compact installation space. The opening serves as a common movement space, while the individual edges each have different slot geometries.The technical effect is that the different slots utilize the same structural environment, thus maintaining mechanical stability while simultaneously ensuring a clear functional separation of the individual slot geometries. The advantages lie in the space-saving integration of multiple slot functions, a clear and user-friendly layout, and simplified manufacturing, as several slots can be implemented in a single opening. Keyring attachment

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fastening element is designed as a through-opening in the base body (claim 30). A "through-opening" is understood to mean that the base body has an opening that completely penetrates it and through which a connecting element of the key ring, in particular a key ring, can be inserted. The through-opening is an integral part of the base body itself and is not designed as a separate component. Technically, this design means that attachment to the key ring is achieved without additional connecting elements that could loosen, bend, or fail. The forces that occur when carrying the device on the key ring or when using the tick removal function are transferred directly into the base body.The technical effect is a particularly robust and durable attachment of the tool to the keyring, as there are no moving or detachable connecting parts that could act as weak points. The advantages lie in the high reliability of the attachment, a reduction in the number of parts, and simplified manufacturing and assembly of the tool.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fastening element is arranged in an edge region of the base body spaced apart from the slot (claim 31). "Spaced apart from the slot" means that there is a distance between the fastening element and the nearest region of the slot that is sufficiently large to prevent mutual interference during use. The edge region is a region of the base body that lies outside the primary functional zone of the slot. Technically, this spatial separation ensures that the fastening element does not interfere with the movement space during relative movement for tick removal, and no undesirable contact or friction points are created. Interference collisions are reduced. The technical effect is a clear functional decoupling between the fastening function and the slot function, so that both can operate reliably and independently of each other.The advantages lie in improved accessibility, trouble-free use of the tick removal function, improved ergonomics, and a reduced risk of unintentional contact or entanglement with the key ring. Basic body construction / manufacturing

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base body is formed in one piece (claim 32). "In one piece" means that the base body consists of a single, continuous piece of material and is not constructed from several individual parts joined together. All functional structures, in particular the working geometry for unlocking the shopping cart, the at least one slot for tick removal, and optionally the fastening element, are integral components of this single piece of material. Technically, material continuity is achieved. This design ensures that there are no joints, transitions, or connecting elements where relative movement, loosening, or material fatigue could occur. The forces occurring when unlocking the shopping cart and removing ticks are distributed continuously and homogeneously within the material of the base body.The technical effect consists of exceptionally high structural integrity and uniform stress distribution throughout the entire base body. The advantages include increased mechanical reliability, a long service life, and simplified and cost-effective manufacturing, for example, through stamping, laser cutting, milling, or injection molding, without subsequent assembly processes.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base body is designed in multiple parts (claim 33). "Multiple parts" means that the base body consists of at least two separate components that are connected to one another, for example, by joining, screwing, riveting, pressing, or other bonding methods. The individual components can perform different geometric or functional tasks. Technically, this design allows different requirements to be specifically distributed across different components. For example, one component can be primarily designed for the operating geometry of the shopping cart release mechanism, while another component has an optimized slot geometry for tick removal. This design enables modularity.The technical effect lies in increased design flexibility, as individual functional areas can be designed, adapted, or replaced independently. The advantage is greater design freedom, the possibility of using different materials or manufacturing processes for different components, and easier adaptation to various shopping cart mechanisms or user requirements without having to redesign the entire basic structure. Operating geometry and mounting options

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the working geometry for unlocking the shopping cart deposit mechanism is disc-shaped (claim 34). "Disc-shaped" is understood to mean a geometry in which the working geometry has a substantially circular or rotationally symmetrical contour and whose axial extent (thickness) is significantly less than its radial extent. This shape corresponds to that of a coin or a flat blank. Technically, such a disc-shaped working geometry allows it to be used as a replacement for a coin in a variety of commercially available shopping cart deposit mechanisms. The forces required for unlocking are introduced into the mechanism over a surface area via the disc contour. The technical effect is a uniform force transmission to the deposit mechanism, thereby preventing localized overloads.The advantage lies in high compatibility with different shopping trolley mechanisms, a secure unlocking function and a robust, low-wear design of the working geometry.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the working geometry is designed as a pin or web (claim 35). "Pin or web-like" means that the working geometry is designed as a projecting body or as an elongated web that engages precisely in a corresponding receptacle or recess of a shopping cart deposit mechanism. The geometry is not planar, but rather designed for point or line-based force application. Technically, this design enables the targeted transmission of the unlocking force at a defined point on the deposit mechanism. The working geometry can thus be adapted to special or alternative lock designs that do not require coin-like actuation. The technical effect is precise force application with minimal material usage.The advantage lies in the increased versatility of the tool, as it can reliably operate shopping cart mechanisms with non-standardized or structurally different unlocking structures.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the mechanism for unlocking the shopping cart and the slot for tick removal are arranged on opposite sides of the base body (claim 36). "Opposite sides" means that the mechanism and the slot are provided on different main surfaces or on side surfaces of the base body facing away from each other, so that they do not come into contact with the same surface simultaneously during intended use. Technically, this arrangement results in a spatial separation of the two functional areas. While one side of the base body is used for engaging the shopping cart mechanism, the opposite side remains freely accessible for the tick removal function.The technical effect consists of a spatial decoupling of the two functional areas as well as a functional decoupling of the two tool properties, thus preventing mutual interference or contamination. The advantages lie in improved ergonomics and hygiene, as the user can operate the two functions clearly separately, as well as in increased clarity and safety during handling.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fastening element is designed as a separate component (claim 37). "Separate component" means that the fastening element is not an integral part of the base body, but rather is designed as an independent element that is connected to the base body, for example, by screwing, clipping, riveting, or similar joining methods. Technically, this design allows the fastening element to be designed, dimensioned, or replaced independently of the base body. This allows, for example, the shape or size of the fastening element to be adapted to different key ring types or user preferences. The technical benefit is increased design flexibility and the possibility of designing the fastening element as a wear-resistant or replaceable component.The advantage lies in expanded design possibilities, improved adaptability to different usage scenarios, and simplified maintenance or customization of the tool. Kinematic stabilization and movement guidance with low force

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fastening element and its arrangement on the base body are designed such that the base body is at least partially kinematically stabilized in its spatial position during tick removal by means of the fastening element (claim 38). "Kinematic stabilization" means that the movement of the base body is not completely free, but that at least one degree of freedom of movement is restricted or guided by the key ring attachment. This occurs independently of any significant force transmission and relates exclusively to the position and movement guidance of the base body. The arrangement of the fastening element ensures that the base body cannot move freely in space during tick removal.The base unit is attached to the keyring via the fastening element, which at least partially determines or stabilizes its spatial position. The technical effect is that unwanted changes in the base unit's position during the relative movement between the slot and the tick are reduced. This allows the slot geometry to reliably perform its geometric guiding function even with very little force. The advantage lies in increased precision when removing ticks, as the user does not have to actively stabilize the base unit in all degrees of freedom. The function becomes more reproducible, especially with small ticks or short movement distances.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fastening element limits unwanted movement of the base body transversely to the intended relative movement between the slot and the tick during tick removal (claim 39). A "movement transversely to the relative movement" is understood to be a movement of the base body that does not occur along the intended direction of movement of the slot, but deviates from it laterally or rotationally. The fastening element acts as a geometric coupling that at least partially inhibits such lateral or rotational movements. This limitation is achieved by spatially connecting the base body to the key ring. The technical effect consists of a reduction in parasitic degrees of freedom of the base body that could impair the precise guidance of the tick in the slot.The advantage lies in a more stable and even relative movement between the slit and the tick, which makes tick removal reliably possible even with minimal force.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the keyring attachment provides or promotes a defined preferred orientation of the base body relative to the skin surface (claim 40). A "preferred orientation" is understood to be a position into which the base body automatically adjusts itself, or can be easily adjusted, due to its attachment to the keyring, without the user having to actively force this orientation. The arrangement of the attachment element brings the base body into a preferred position relative to the direction of gravity and the skin surface. This position is advantageous for guiding the tick into the slot. The technical effect is that the slot is provided in an orientation suitable for tick removal without the user having to specifically align the base body.The advantage lies in simplified handling and increased ergonomics, especially for one-handed use or limited mobility.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the relative movement for tick removal, with the base body attached, occurs along a path of movement partly determined by the arrangement of the fastening element (claim 41). A "path of movement partly determined" is understood to be a path of movement that is not solely predetermined by the user's conscious hand movement, but is additionally influenced by geometric or kinematic boundary conditions. The key ring attachment limits or directs the possible movement of the base body, resulting in a preferred path for the relative movement between the slot and the tick. The technical effect is that the relative movement occurs reproducibly along a geometrically favorable path, even if the user's movement is not precise.The advantage lies in increased reliability of tick removal, especially under unfavorable ergonomic conditions or in low visibility.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the slot geometry and the fastening element are functionally coordinated so that tick removal is supported by geometric guidance and the fixation of the base body with minimal force (claim 42). "Functional coordination" means that the geometric design of the slot and the position of the fastening element are selected relative to each other so that they complement each other in their effect. The slot geometry performs the actual guiding function for the tick, while the fastening, via the fixation of the base body, ensures that this guiding function is effective without disruptive evasive movements. The technical benefit is that tick removal is achieved primarily through geometric guidance and does not require compensation by the application of force.The advantage lies in a particularly gentle, precise and reproducible tick removal with minimal force.

[0053] An embodiment of the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. These show: Fig. 1. A representation of an early shopping cart release mechanism, Fig. 2 a representation of a second shopping cart release, Fig. 3 a representation of a third shopping cart release, Fig. 4 a representation of a fourth shopping cart release, Fig. 5 a representation of a fifth shopping cart release.

[0054] All figures do not show the invention to scale, only schematically and with its essential components. Identical reference numerals correspond to elements with the same or comparable function.

[0055] First, the in Fig. Figure 1 describes in detail the first shopping cart release mechanism 1. The shopping cart release mechanism 1 comprises a one-piece base body 2 and an operating geometry 3 formed on the base body 3 for the mechanical unlocking of a shopping cart deposit mechanism. The operating geometry 3 is disc-shaped.

[0056] The shopping cart release 1 also comprises a slot 4 formed in the base body 2 and a fastening element 5 for detachable attachment to a key ring. The slot 4 has a tapered width and is essentially V-shaped. The slot edges 6 are sharp. The slot 4 is located on an outer edge 7 of the base body 2. The fastening element 5 is formed as a through-opening in the base body 2 and is located in an edge region 8 of the base body 2, spaced apart from the slot 4.

[0057] The slot 4 is arranged and geometrically designed in the base body 2 such that it is freely accessible when the base body 2 is attached to the keyring and allows relative movement between the base body 2 and a tick inserted under the slot 4. This movement enables the tick to be removed from the skin without detaching the base body 2 from the keyring. The slot 4 is accessible without reorienting the base body 2 when it is attached to the keyring and is located in a zone of the base body 2 spaced apart from the fastening element 5. During the relative movement for tick removal, the fastening element 5 does not need to contact the skin. The relative movement is essentially axial to the base body 2 and comprises a combined pulling and sliding motion.

[0058] In the Fig. 2 and Fig. In the shopping cart release mechanism 1 shown in Figure 3, the slot 4 is not located on an outer edge 7 of the base body 2. Instead, a material cutout 9, completely surrounded by the base body 2 and designed as a through-hole, is provided in the base body 2, and the slot 4 is formed on an edge 10 of this material cutout 9. The material cutout 9 is provided in the disc- or coin-shaped section 11 of the base body 2 that has the functional geometry 3 for mechanically unlocking the shopping cart. The material cutout 9 lies completely within this section 11.

[0059] The in the Fig. 4 and Fig. The shopping cart release 1 shown in Figure 5, like the first shopping cart release, has a slot 4 arranged on an outer edge 7 of the base body 2. However, compared to the first shopping cart release 1, the designs of the base bodies 2 and the positions of the fastening element 5 relative to the slot 4 differ.

[0060] In all illustrated shopping cart release mechanisms 1, the slot direction 12 is essentially parallel to the insertion direction 13 of the base body 2 when unlocking the shopping cart, see Fig. 1.

[0061] All features shown in the description, the following claims and the drawings can be essential to the invention, either individually or in any combination.

[0062] These features or combinations of features can each constitute an independent invention, the right to claim which is expressly reserved.

[0063] When specifying a combination of features defining an invention, individual features from the description of an embodiment do not necessarily have to be combined with one or more or all other features specified in the description of that embodiment; in this respect, any subcombination of features of one or more embodiments is expressly disclosed. Reference symbol list 1 shopping cart release 2 basic shapes 3. Working geometry 4 slots 5 Fastening element 6 slotted edge 7 Edge 8 Edge area 9 Material excerpt 10 Cutout edge Section 11 12 Slot direction 13. Plug direction

Claims

[1] Hand-held tool (1), comprising a base body (2), with an operating geometry (3) formed on the base body (2) for mechanically unlocking a shopping cart deposit mechanism, with at least one slot (4) formed in the base body (2), and with a fastening element (5) for detachable attachment to a key ring, characterized by , that the slot (4) is arranged and geometrically designed in the base body (2) in such a way that it is freely accessible when the base body (2) is attached to the key ring and allows relative movement between the base body (2) and a tick guided under the slot (4), by which the tick can be removed from the skin without the base body (2) having to be detached from the key ring. [2] Tool (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the slot (4) is accessible without reorienting the base body (2) when the base body (2) is attached to the key ring. [3] Tool (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that the slot (4) is arranged in a zone (11) of the base body (2) spaced apart from the fastening element (5). [4] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that during the relative movement for tick removal, no contact of the fastening element (5) with the skin is required. [5] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the relative movement is essentially axial to the base body (2). [6] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the relative motion is oblique to the base body (2). [7] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the relative motion is essentially tangential to the base body (2). [8] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the relative motion comprises a combined pulling and sliding motion. [9] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the slot (4) has a tapered width. [10] Tool (1) according to claim 9, characterized by that the slot (4) is essentially V-shaped. [11] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the slot (4) has several sections of different widths. [12] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the slot edges (6) are rounded. [13] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the slot edges (6) are sharp-edged. [14] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the slot (4) is arranged on an outer edge (7) of the base body (2). [15] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the slot (4) is not located on an outer edge (7) of the base body (2). [16] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a material cutout (9) is provided in the base body (2) and the slot (4) is formed on an edge (10) of this material cutout (9). [17] Tool (1) according to claim 16, characterized by , that the material section (9) is surrounded on all sides by the base body (2). [18] Tool (1) according to claim 16 or 17, characterized by , that the material cutout (9) is designed as a breakthrough. [19] Tool (1) according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized by , that the material section (9) is polygonal, oval or circular. [20] Tool (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the material cutout (9) is provided in that section (11) of the base body (2) which has the working geometry (3) for the mechanical unlocking of the shopping cart. [21] Tool (1) according to claim 20, characterized by , that this section (11) is disc- or coin-shaped. [22] Tool (1) according to claim 20 or 21, characterized by , that the slot (4) and the working geometry (3) are arranged in the same section (11) of the base body (2). [23] Tool (1) according to any one of claims 20 to 22, characterized by that the material section (9) lies entirely or substantially entirely within this section (11). [24] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the slot direction (12) is essentially parallel to the insertion direction (13) of the base body (2) when unlocking the shopping cart. [25] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the slot direction (12) is essentially perpendicular to the insertion direction (13). [26] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the slot direction (12) is oriented obliquely to the insertion direction (13). [27] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the slot (4) is curved or is oriented differently in sections. [28] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the base body (2) has several slots (4) of different geometries. [29] Tool (1) according to claim 28, characterized by that the slots (4) are arranged on different edges (10) of the same material section (9). [30] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the fastening element (5) is designed as a through-opening in the base body (2). [31] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the fastening element (5) is arranged in an edge region (8) of the base body (2) spaced apart from the slot (4). [32] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the base body (2) is formed in one piece. [33] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the basic body (2) is formed in multiple parts. [34] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the working geometry (3) is disk-shaped. [35] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the working geometry (3) is cone- or web-like. [36] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the working geometry (3) and the slot (4) are arranged on opposite sides of the base body (2). [37] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the fastening element (5) is designed as a separate component. [38] Tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the fastening element (5) and its arrangement on the base body (2) are designed such that the base body (2) is at least partially kinematically stabilized in its spatial position during tick removal via the fastening element (5). [39] Tool (1) according to claim 38, characterized by , that the fastening element (5) limits an unintended evasive movement of the base body (2) transverse to the intended relative movement between slot and tick. [40] Tool (1) according to claim 38 or 39, characterized by that the key ring attachment specifies or favors a defined preferred orientation of the base body (2) relative to the skin surface. [41] Tool (1) according to any one of claims 38 to 40, characterized by , that the relative movement for tick removal with the base body (2) attached takes place along a path of movement which is partly determined by the arrangement of the fastening element (5). [42] Tool (1) according to any one of claims 38 to 41, characterized by , that the slot geometry and fastening element (5) are functionally coordinated so that tick removal with low force is supported by geometric guidance and position fixation of the base body (2).

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