Shop tool

Abstract

Angle tool (1) comprising - a first unit (1) with a first longitudinal side (6) and a first coupling means (8) arranged opposite the first longitudinal side (6) for generating angular steps (15) of a first angular range (16), - a second unit (3) with a second coupling means (9) for generating angular steps (15') of a second angular range (17) and a first coupling range (12) for engaging the first coupling means (8) of the first unit (2) with the second unit (3), - a third unit (4) with a third coupling means (10) and a fourth coupling means (11) for generating angular steps (15") of a third angular range (18) and a second coupling range (13) for engaging the second coupling means (9) of the second unit (3) with the third unit (4), and - a fourth unit (5) with a third coupling area (14) for the engagement of the third coupling means (10) and fourth coupling means (11) of the third unit (4) in the fourth unit (5) and a second longitudinal side (7) arranged opposite the third coupling area (14), wherein the coupling means (8, 9, 10, 11) and the coupling areas (12, 13, 14) complementary to them of the first to fourth units (2, 3, 4, 5) are coordinated such that a defined relative angle between the first longitudinal side (6) and the second longitudinal side (7) is generated by mutually interlocking the units (2, 3, 4, 5).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an angle tool.

[0002] Several angle and measuring tools used for setting or checking angles are known from the prior art. These include, in particular, classic angle-adjustable bevel gauges. A typical such tool consists of two legs that are rotatably mounted relative to each other and can be fixed by means of a screw or wing nut.

[0003] While such tools allow for any desired angle setting, they typically do not offer discrete increments with a multitude of defined angle positions and predetermined step sizes (e.g., 0.25°, 1°, 5°). Instead, they enable stepless rotary adjustment with continuous setting. Furthermore, simple, fixed angle tools or stop angles exist (e.g., right angles, 45° angles, fixed miter angles), but these only offer one or a few fixed angles (e.g., 90°, 45°).

[0004] Angle measuring and transfer tools with scales, spirit levels, or digital displays are also known, used for measuring or checking angles. However, these are designed as measuring instruments and not primarily as mechanically positive-locking, repeatably adjustable angle devices for transferring the same angle to a workpiece.

[0005] Based on this state of the art, the invention therefore aims to provide an angle tool that solves the known disadvantages and enables a large number of clearly defined angular positions between two reference surfaces.

[0006] This problem is solved with an angle tool according to the features of independent claim 1. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in particular in the description and the dependent claims.

[0007] The present invention relates to an angle tool comprising - a first unit with a first longitudinal side and a first coupling means arranged opposite the longitudinal side for generating angular steps of a first angular range, - a second unit with a second coupling means for generating angular steps of a second angular range and a first coupling area for the engagement of the first coupling means of the first unit with the second unit, - a third unit with a third coupling means and a fourth coupling means for generating angular steps of a third angular range, as well as a second coupling area for the engagement of the second coupling means of the second unit with the third unit, and - a fourth unit with a third coupling area for the engagement of the third and fourth coupling means of the third unit into the fourth unit, and a second longitudinal side arranged opposite the third coupling area, wherein the coupling means and the complementary coupling areas of the first to fourth units are coordinated in such a way that a defined relative angle between the first and second longitudinal sides is generated by mutually interlocking the units.

[0008] The angle tool according to the invention therefore allows a large number of defined angles to be achieved quickly and intuitively with just one tool. This ensures uncomplicated handling.

[0009] The invention can be further improved by the following embodiments, each of which is advantageous in itself and can be combined with each other as desired.

[0010] In a first advantageous embodiment of the angle tool, the coupling means and their complementary coupling areas of the first to fourth units are each designed as complementary key-lock profiles. For example, each coupling means can have a contoured projection that engages positively in a corresponding receptacle of the respective coupling area. The associated coupling areas can each have an internal contour that is matched to the coupling means in cross-section and longitudinal direction, guiding the coupling means in a defined relative position and securing it against rotation in the circumferential direction. The profiling can preferably extend over a substantial portion of the axial insertion length, creating a linear or planar contact zone with sufficient load-bearing capacity, enabling the transmission of both bending moments and torsional forces between the units.

[0011] The key-lock design also ensures that the angular position of each unit is clearly defined when it is inserted. Incorrect assembly, where the units would be coupled in an unintended rotational position, is prevented by, for example, a positive locking mechanism between the profiles, as only the predetermined insertion positions with the intended angular increments are accessible. The defined guidance of the coupling element within the coupling area thus reduces play between the units and minimizes angular errors that could arise from tolerances or wear.

[0012] The standardized design of all coupling elements and coupling areas as complementary key-lock profiles simplifies the manufacturing of the angle tool, as the units can be produced with recurring profile geometries. At the same time, it enables the interchangeability of individual units, for example, to implement alternative angle ranges or different step sizes without changing the coupling principle. Overall, this design leads to increased dimensional accuracy of the angle setting, improved load-bearing capacity of the connection, and safe, reproducible handling of the angle tool.

[0013] In a further advantageous embodiment of the angle tool, each coupling element engages in its respective coupling area through a defined insertion movement. The coupling element can be inserted into the associated coupling area until, for example, a detent profile integrated into the coupling element and / or the coupling area snaps into a complementary counter-contour. The detent effect can be achieved by a geometric constriction, a step, or a recess into which a corresponding projection or spring on the other component can engage.

[0014] The defined insertion motion limits the insertion process to a single, clearly defined direction of movement. The user simply guides the units towards each other until the detent point is reached. This results in a clear, reproducible end position in which the corresponding angular increment is reliably set. An angled or twisted insertion of the units relative to each other can be prevented, for example, by a guide in the coupling area, thus ensuring a defined relative position of the units.

[0015] Advantageously, the first coupling area of ​​the second unit comprises a series of spaced-apart sections, the position of which each corresponds to a discrete angular step of the first angular area.

[0016] The first coupling area of ​​the second unit can be designed as a multi-stage plug-in area with several defined plug-in positions. Each of these sections can be geometrically arranged and designed such that when the first coupling element of the first unit engages a specific section of the first coupling area of ​​the second unit, a uniquely assigned position between the first and second units is achieved. The individual sections can preferably be arranged along a circular path or an equivalent reference geometry around an imaginary axis of rotation, such that the distance between the sections corresponds to the respective angular increment of the first angular area.The spaced sections can be designed, for example, as stepped pockets, notches, grooves, or shoulders, each providing a defined stop surface or contact position for the coupling element of the first unit. By assigning each section to a discrete angular increment within the first angular range, it can be ensured that the second unit can only be operatively connected to the first unit in the intended, defined angular positions. Intermediate positions without a clearly defined angular increment are thus structurally impossible, guaranteeing a reproducible and unambiguous angular setting.

[0017] The same can advantageously apply to the second coupling area of ​​the third unit and the third coupling area of ​​the fourth unit.

[0018] It is particularly advantageous for the third and fourth coupling means to each be assigned to a different sub-area of ​​the third angular range. The third angular range is further subdivided into at least two sub-areas, for example, a first sub-area with coarser angular increments and a second sub-area with finer angular increments, or sub-areas for different, non-overlapping angular intervals. The third coupling means can be designed and arranged in relation to the third coupling area of ​​the fourth unit such that it provides only angular positions of a first sub-area of ​​the third angular range.The fourth coupling means can be designed to interact with a different set of plug positions or sections of the third coupling area, thereby generating angular positions of a second sub-area of ​​the third angular area that differs from the first sub-area.

[0019] The assignment of the two coupling elements to different sub-areas can be achieved structurally, for example, by arranging the third and fourth coupling elements in axially or radially offset planes, or by giving them different profile geometries that interact (positively) only with specific sections of the third coupling area. For instance, the third coupling element can engage a first section of the circumference or a first axial zone of the coupling area, while the fourth coupling element engages a second section or zone spaced apart from this. Each of these areas can, for example, have its own detent or stop geometries that are clearly assigned to one of the two coupling elements.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment of the angle tool, each coupling means has a locking element for force-fit and form-fit fixing of the set angle. It can be provided that a locking element is integrated into each coupling means, which can be moved into a locking position when the coupling means is inserted into the corresponding coupling area. The locking element can, for example, be designed as a spring-elastic tongue, a detent projection, a ball detent, or a detent contour formed in the profile flanks that engages in a complementary recess or step of the coupling area. Crucially, after overcoming a defined insertion force, a stable locking position is reached in which displacement of the coupling means along the insertion direction and rotation perpendicular to the insertion direction are blocked.

[0021] To generate such a locking effect, the locking element can have a defined contact geometry that interacts with a counter contour in the coupling area. The contact geometry can be designed such that, during insertion, an elastic deformation or a brief relative movement occurs against a positive-locking stop, and after reaching the locking position, the restoring forces of the locking element hold the units in the engaged position. This creates a combined force and positive locking connection that transmits both axial forces and torques between the units, thus maintaining the set angle.

[0022] The locking mechanisms can be dimensioned to provide, on the one hand, a sufficiently high holding force to reliably absorb the loads encountered during practical use, and on the other hand, to allow a defined release of the connection by applying a higher, yet manageable, actuation force. This enables the user to release the set angle with a targeted pulling or tilting motion and select a new insertion position without the need for additional tools.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment of the angle tool, at least the second, third, and fourth units each have an angle marking that corresponds to the respective coupling area. It is provided that each of these units has a clearly identifiable marking that is in a fixed geometric relationship to the respective coupling area. The angle marking can be implemented as an engraving, embossing, colored dot, scale mark, or a combination of these. Crucially, each insertion position of the coupling area is assigned to a specific marking point or marking field, so that the user can directly read the set angle or the corresponding angular increment based on the position of the unit relative to a reference mark.

[0024] The angle marking can preferably be assigned to the respective angle range such that the marking is clearly visible on an outer surface of the angle tool when the unit is locked in place. The markings can include numerical values ​​of the angle, symbolic designations of individual grid positions, or color codes for different angle ranges. This visual assignment eliminates the need for the user to "estimate" the position of the units based on the geometry of the coupling area; instead, the marking provides a clear and reproducible identification of the set position.

[0025] The technical benefit of this design is that it significantly simplifies the operation of the angle tool and reduces the potential for errors during angle setting. The user can precisely target a desired angle by aligning the marking corresponding to the desired angle position with a fixed reference mark within the system. This allows recurring settings to be reproduced without additional measuring instruments or scales, which is particularly advantageous in serial applications or when frequently changing settings.

[0026] In a further advantageous embodiment of the angle tool, the first angle range has an angle range of 0° to 4° with angle increments of 1°; and / or the second angle range has an angle range of 0° to 45° with angle increments of 5°; and / or the third angle range has an angle range of 0° to 0.75° with angle increments of 0.25°.

[0027] This divides the angle function of the angle tool into three logically and functionally separate, yet combinable, angle ranges. The first angle range is designed to provide relatively small correction or additional angles in the range of 0° to 4° in comparatively coarse, but easily controllable increments of 1°. The second angle range covers a significantly larger basic angle range of 0° to 45°, with increments of 5°, making it particularly suitable for typical miter, stop, or setting angles. Finally, the third angle range, with 0° to 0.75° and increments of 0.25°, provides very fine angle adjustment, allowing the user to make high-resolution fine adjustments to the overall angle.

[0028] Assigning these specific angular intervals and step sizes to different units or coupling elements makes it possible to generate the overall angle by combining a coarse base angle from the second angular range, a medium correction angle from the first angular range, and a fine-resolution correction component from the third angular range. This allows for the creation of a high-resolution overall angle without requiring any single unit to have an excessively complex or mechanically difficult-to-control grid. The design effort required to implement the different step sizes is thus distributed across multiple assemblies.

[0029] The technical benefit of this advantageous design is that the angle tool covers a large, practically relevant overall angle range and provides fine resolution within this range. For frequently occurring standard angles, the user can directly use the 5° increments of the second angle range and, if necessary, supplement these with smaller increments in the 1° grid of the first angle range and very small corrections in the 0.25° grid of the third angle range. In this way, a large number of different target angles can be set with defined accuracy without having to read scales or estimate continuous rotational positions.

[0030] The invention is described below by way of example with reference to the drawings. The same reference numerals are always used in the drawings for elements that correspond to each other in terms of function and / or structure.

[0031] As described above, a feature of the embodiment can be omitted if the technical effect associated with that feature is not relevant for a particular application. Conversely, a feature not yet present in the embodiment can also be added as described above if the technical effect of the added feature is relevant for a particular application.

[0032] They show: Fig. 1 A schematic representation of an embodiment of an angle tool in a top view, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 the angle tool according to Fig. 1 in different angular positions in perspective side view.

[0033] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of an angle tool 1 in its fully assembled state. The angle tool 1 comprises a first unit 2, a second unit 3, a third unit 4, and a fourth unit 5, which are arranged one above the other and connected or coupled to each other via coupling means 8, 9, 10, 11 and coupling areas 12, 13, 14. The first unit 2 has a support rail with a straight first longitudinal side 6. The second unit 3 is pivotably mounted on the first unit 2 and carries the second coupling area 13 along a curved path. Above the second unit 3 is the third unit 4, and above that is the fourth unit 5, which has its second longitudinal side 7 opposite the third coupling area 14.

[0034] In the example shown here, the first coupling element 8 is provided at the left end region of the first unit 2. This element is designed as a cylindrical plug-in contour and engages in selected sections 19 of the first coupling region 12 of the second unit 3. The first coupling region 12 is designed as a series of spaced-apart sections 19 along a curved line and provides the angular increments 15 of the first angular range 16, which are marked here by example with 0°, 1°, 2°, 3° and 4° as angle markers 20.

[0035] The second coupling means 9 is arranged on the second unit 3 and engages in corresponding sections 19' of the second coupling area 13 of the third unit 4. The second coupling area 13 is designed as a curved row of connectors and forms the angular increments 15' of the second angular area 17, which are indicated here by way of example as 0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40° and 45° as angle markings 20'.

[0036] The third unit 4 carries the third coupling means 10 and the fourth coupling means 11, which are arranged at longitudinally spaced positions. These coupling means 10 and 11 engage in sections 19'' of a third coupling area 14 of the fourth unit 5. The third coupling area 14 is also formed as a sequence of spaced-apart plug-in contours and provides the angular increments 15'' of the third angular area 18, which are marked here by way of example with 0°, 0.25°, 0.50° and 0.75° as angular markings 20''.

[0037] To enable users of the angle tool 1 to more quickly identify which section 19, 19', 19'' a coupling element 8, 9, 10, 11 engages in within the respective coupling area 12, 13, 14, the coupling element can be marked. This could be, for example, a colored marking. However, any other marking that allows for easy visual identification is also acceptable.

[0038] By combining the angular increments 15, 15', 15'' specified by sections 19, 19' and 19'' of the first angular range 16, the second angular range 17 and the third angular range 18, a defined relative angle is established between the first longitudinal side 6 of the first unit 2 and the second longitudinal side 7 of the fourth unit 5. Examples of this are given in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 shown.

[0039] In Fig. At angle tool 1, a relative angle of 0° is set. Consequently, all coupling means 8, 9, 10, 11 are located in sections 19, 19', 19'' of the respective coupling area 12, 13, 14, which represent an angle of 0°.

[0040] In contrast, in Fig. Figure 2 shows an angle tool 1 with a relative angle of 6.25°. This relative angle is achieved by the first coupling means 8 engaging in section 19 of the first coupling area 12 of the second unit 3, which represents an angle of 1°, the second coupling means 9 engaging in section 19' of the second coupling area 13 of the third unit 3, which represents an angle of 5°, and the third coupling means 10 and the fourth coupling means 11 engaging in sections 19'' of the fourth coupling area 14 of the fourth unit 5, which represent an angle of 0.25°.

[0041] A similar situation exists in the Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows relative angles of 19.75° and 42.5° respectively.

[0042] Thus, an angle tool is disclosed above which ensures easy operation and enables a large number of clearly defined angular positions between two reference surfaces.

Claims

[1] Angle tool (1) comprising - a first unit (1) with a first longitudinal side (6) and a first coupling means (8) arranged opposite the first longitudinal side (6) for generating angular steps (15) of a first angular range (16), - a second unit (3) with a second coupling means (9) for generating angular steps (15') of a second angular range (17) and a first coupling range (12) for engaging the first coupling means (8) of the first unit (2) with the second unit (3), - a third unit (4) with a third coupling means (10) and a fourth coupling means (11) for generating angular steps (15") of a third angular range (18) and a second coupling range (13) for engaging the second coupling means (9) of the second unit (3) with the third unit (4), and - a fourth unit (5) with a third coupling area (14) for the engagement of the third coupling means (10) and fourth coupling means (11) of the third unit (4) in the fourth unit (5) and a second longitudinal side (7) arranged opposite the third coupling area (14), wherein the coupling means (8, 9, 10, 11) and the coupling areas (12, 13, 14) complementary to them of the first to fourth units (2, 3, 4, 5) are coordinated such that a defined relative angle between the first longitudinal side (6) and the second longitudinal side (7) is generated by mutually interlocking the units (2, 3, 4, 5). [2] Angle tool according to claim 1, characterized by , that the coupling means (8, 9, 10, 11) and the complementary coupling areas (12, 13, 14) of the first to fourth unit (2, 3, 4, 5) are each designed as complementary key-lock profiles. [3] Angle tool according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that each of the coupling means (8, 9, 10, 11) engages in the respective coupling area (12, 13, 14) by means of a defined insertion movement. [4] Angle tool according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first coupling area (12) of the second unit (3) comprises a series of spaced-apart sections (19) whose position each corresponds to a discrete angular step (15) of the first angular area (16). [5] Angle tool according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the second coupling area (13) of the third unit (4) comprises a series of spaced-apart sections (19') whose position each corresponds to a discrete angular step (15') of the second angular area (17). [6] Angle tool according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the third coupling area (14) of the fourth unit (5) comprises a series of spaced-apart sections (19"), the position of which each corresponds to a discrete angular step (15") of the third angular area (18). [7] Angle tool according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the third coupling means (10) and the fourth coupling means (11) are each assigned to a different sub-area of ​​the third angular range (14). [8] Angle tool according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the coupling means (8 ,9 10 ,11) each have a locking means for force- and form-locking fixation of the set angle. [9] Angle tool according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that at least the second unit (3), the third unit (4) and the fourth unit (5) each have an angle marking (20, 20', 20") which is assigned to the relevant angle range (16, 17, 18). [10] Angle tool according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first angle range (16) has an angle range from 0° to 4° with angle increments of 1°; and / or the second angle range (17) has an angle range from 0° to 45° with angle increments of 5°; and / or the third angle range (18) has an angle range from 0° to 0.75° with angle steps of 0.25°.

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