ELECTRIC CONTACT LOCKING DEVICE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a closure device for connecting two parts according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Such a closure device comprises a first closure part having a first engagement projection, and a second closure part having a second engagement projection. To close the closure device, the first closure part and the second closure part can be placed against one another and are mechanically connected to one another in a closed position in that the first engagement projection and the second engagement projection are positively engaged with one another in the closed position. A magnetic device acting between the first closure part and the second closure part serves to assist the placement of the first closure part and the second closure part against one another by providing a magnetic attraction force.

[0003] In a closure device known from KR 20 1996 009 916 Y1, a closure part is attached to an object via a mounting plate. The mounting plate has openings that can be brought into engagement with engagement projections of the closure part. Spring tongues are provided at the openings. These tongues elastically deflect when the closure part is placed against the mounting plate. After establishing a positive connection between the engagement projections of the closure part and the edge of the openings of the mounting plate, they return to their home position, preventing the engagement projections from disengaging from their engagement in the home position.

[0004] In a closure known from DE 43 12 032 C2, a pin is arranged on a first closure part, which can be brought into engagement with an engagement recess on a second closure part. Upon application, the pin pushes aside a locking element, which, after the pin of the first closure part has engaged with the engagement recess of the second closure part, returns to a basic position in which the engagement of the pin with the engagement recess is blocked. To release the pin from the engagement recess, the locking element can be actuated to release the pin and remove it from the engagement recess.

[0005] There is a need for locking devices that can be closed in a haptically pleasant, smooth manner, that ensure a firm hold in the closed position and thus a secure connection between the parts to be connected and that can also be opened in an easy and comfortable manner.

[0006] In addition, it may be desirable to connect electrical assemblies to one another in order to transmit electrical signals between the electrical assemblies, for example to provide a power supply or to transmit data signals.

[0007] US 2009 / 0215283 A1 describes a connector comprising a plug and a socket. The plug has a plurality of contacts and a first magnet. The socket forms a plurality of insertion holes and has a second magnet. The magnets are intended to provide magnetic repulsion when the plug and socket are connected to each other.

[0008] WO 2016 / 166538 A1 describes an electrical connector with a first connector part and a second connector part, which can be attached to each other under magnetic attraction.

[0009] WO 2008 / 068241 A1 describes a vehicle glazing with an electrical connector.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a closure device which enables easy closing, a firm hold in the closed position and easy opening and which can be particularly suitable for connecting electrical assemblies.

[0011] This object is achieved by an article having the features of claim 1.

[0012] Accordingly, the first closure part has a first electrical contact element, and the second closure part has a second electrical contact element. In the closed position, the first electrical contact element and the second electrical contact element are operatively connected to one another in an electrically contacting manner.

[0013] The locking device thus allows electrical contact to be established when two assemblies are mechanically held together. The locking device thus enables the simple attachment of assemblies to one another, with a simple, magnetically assisted closing process and a mechanically secure hold in the closed position. Closing the locking device simultaneously also creates electrical contact between the contact elements, so that in the closed position, the locking parts of the locking device are also electrically connected to one another.

[0014] The present closure device provides (at least) one engagement projection on each of two closure parts, which is designed in the manner of an undercut and can be rigidly arranged on a base body of the respectively associated closure part. To close the closure device, the engagement projections are brought into engagement with one another. For this purpose, the engagement projections are moved past one another, for example, until the first engagement projection can be pushed into positive engagement with the second engagement projection in the engagement direction. In the closed position, the engagement projections firmly hold the closure parts against one another, so that the closure device can be loaded without the closure parts becoming detached from one another.

[0015] To prevent the closure parts from accidentally separating from one another in the closed position, a locking element is additionally provided, which is designed, for example, as an elastic spring tongue arranged on a base body of one of the closure parts or as a locking part resiliently arranged on the base body, for example, a pivotable locking part. When the first closure part is placed against the second closure part, the locking element deflects in such a way that the first engagement projection of the first closure part can be pushed in the engagement direction into engagement with the second engagement projection of the second closure part. Upon placement, the locking element is thus pushed aside in such a way that the first engagement projection can be guided into engagement with the second engagement projection.During or after the engagement is established, the locking element returns to its home position and, in this home position, blocks the positive engagement of the first engagement projection with the second engagement projection in the opposite direction of engagement. The retention of the first engagement projection on the second engagement projection, and thus of the first closure part on the second closure part, is thus secured, so that the closure device cannot be opened inadvertently.

[0016] Additionally, magnetic means are provided, which are designed, for example, in the form of a magnet on the first closure part and a magnet on the second closure part, or in the form of a magnet on one of the closure parts and a magnetic armature in the form of a component made of a ferromagnetic material on the other of the closure parts. The magnetic means act between the first closure part and the second closure part by interacting in a magnetically attractive manner when the first closure part is placed against the second closure part, thus drawing the first closure part into engagement with the second closure part with magnetic support.

[0017] The magnetic means can advantageously be dimensioned such that the engagement of the first engagement projection with the second engagement projection is achieved largely automatically when the closure parts are brought together, and in particular, the deflection of the locking element when the closure parts are brought together occurs largely automatically in a magnetically assisted manner. This provides an easy-to-close closure in which the closure parts only need to be brought together in a comparatively imprecise manner for closing, and the actual closing of the closure then takes place largely automatically in a magnetically assisted manner.

[0018] The locking element can be designed such that it returns to its home position when the engagement is established, or only after the engagement between the first engagement projection and the second engagement projection has been established. For example, the locking element can snap back into its home position as soon as the engagement is established (i.e., after the engagement has been established). However, it is also possible that the locking element, due to its elastic design, already exerts a preload on the other closure part upon the engagement being established, which presses the first engagement projection into engagement with the second engagement projection in the engagement direction, thus already supporting the engagement during the engagement.

[0019] The locking element can, for example, be pivotably mounted on the associated locking part. The locking element can be spring-loaded toward its home position, so that after deflection during application, the locking element automatically returns to its home position when the locking parts are in the closed position or approaching their closed position.

[0020] In the closed position, the first engagement projection of the first closure part is in positive engagement with the second engagement projection of the second closure part. This engagement is blocked by the locking element in that the locking element prevents the closure parts from moving relative to one another counter to the engagement direction, so that the engagement projections cannot be disengaged from one another counter to the engagement direction. To open the closure device, the blocking can be released, for example by deflecting the locking element from its basic position, for example by manual operation. Once the blocking of the positive engagement between the engagement projections of the first closure part and the second closure part is released, the engagement projections can be disengaged from one another counter to the engagement direction, so that the closure parts can be released from one another.

[0021] Advantageously, the first closure part and / or the second closure part have a run-up slope designed such that when the first closure part is placed against the second closure part in a closing direction different from the engagement direction, the first engagement projection runs onto the second engagement projection and the first closure part is urged counter to the engagement direction until the first engagement projection can be brought into engagement with the second engagement projection in the engagement direction. The closing direction is directed, for example, transversely to the engagement direction. The run-up slope describes an inclined plane that is directed at an angle of between, for example, 30° and 60°, in particular 45° (relative to the surface normal of the inclined plane) to the closing direction and the engagement direction. Such a run-up slope facilitates the attachment of the closure parts to one another.Particularly when the engagement projections are formed as rigid elements on a base body of the closure parts, the engagement projections must be moved past one another to engage them. This also requires moving the first engagement projection (which is designed in the manner of an undercut) counter to the engagement direction relative to the second engagement projection until the engagement projections, which are designed in the manner of undercuts, can be engaged with one another. This movement counter to the engagement direction is supported by the ramp, along which the closure parts slide past one another until the engagement projections can be engaged with one another.

[0022] The magnetic device is advantageously formed by at least one first magnetic element of the first closure part and at least one second magnetic element of the second closure part. The magnetic elements are advantageously arranged on the closure parts in such a way that they magnetically attract each other when the first closure part is placed against the second closure part. However, in the closed position, the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element are offset from one another—viewed along the engagement direction—in such a way that a magnetic force of attraction acts on the first closure part in the engagement direction.The magnetic device thus creates a preload between the closure parts, which attempts to pull the first engagement projection into engagement with the second engagement projection in the engagement direction, thus magnetically assisting the engagement and retention of the first engagement projection in the second engagement projection. Viewed along the engagement direction, the magnetic element of the first closure part is thus arranged in front of the magnetic element of the second closure part, so that the magnetic attraction force between the magnets has at least one force component in the engagement direction.

[0023] In principle, the magnetic device acts as a magnetic attraction in the closing direction, which can, for example, be directed approximately perpendicular to the engagement direction. Due to the effect of the magnetic device, the closure parts are thus mutually attracted when positioned in the closing direction. The force between the magnetic means is such that the first engagement projection of the first closure part is brought into engagement with the second engagement projection of the second closure part in a magnetically assisted manner, thus allowing the closure of the closure device to be closed largely automatically in a magnetically assisted manner.

[0024] For example, each closure part can be provided with a pair of two magnetic elements that are offset from one another along the engagement direction. This can counteract tilting of the closure parts relative to one another when closing the closure device. Furthermore, a beneficial force effect can be achieved in the direction of engagement of the engagement projections with one another.

[0025] The magnetic elements can be designed as permanent magnet elements, in which case the magnetic elements of the closure parts face each other with opposite magnetic poles, thus interacting in a magnetically attractive manner. However, it is also conceivable and possible for the magnetic elements to be formed, on the one hand, by permanent magnet elements and, on the other hand, for example, by ferromagnetic elements (magnetic armatures), which face each other and interact, creating a magnetic attraction between the closure parts.

[0026] The first engagement projection on the first closure part and the second engagement projection on the second closure part are advantageously shaped and configured such that the engagement is reinforced when the closure device is under load. For example, two engagement projections can be provided on each of the first closure part and the second closure part, extending at an (acute) angle to one another, resulting in a V-shape. The tip of the V points in the engagement direction, which preferably also corresponds to a loading direction, so that the hold of the engagement projections of the first closure part in the engagement projections of the second closure part is reinforced when the device is under load.

[0027] The V-shape is also advantageous in two further aspects. First, the V-shaped arrangement advantageously absorbs forces that deviate from the loading direction within an angle predetermined by the V-shape through the positive connection between the first engagement projections and the second engagement projections. Second, the V-shape stabilizes the closure in such a way that pivoting forces acting on the closure in the closed position around the closing direction can be absorbed over a comparatively large effective width (compared to the depth of the engagement projections). The effective width here is approximately the width of the V-shaped engagement projections in the loading direction.

[0028] In principle, however, other shapes of the engagement projections on the first closure part and the second closure part are also conceivable. For example, the first engagement projection and the second engagement projection can each be curved.

[0029] The two first engagement projections of the first closure part and / or the two second engagement projections of the second closure part can be connected to one another, thus creating a continuous, but possibly angled, engagement device. However, the engagement projections can also be separated from one another, so that a gap exists between the two first engagement projections and / or the two second engagement projections.

[0030] It is also conceivable and possible for several engagement projections to be arranged on each closure part, offset from one another along the engagement direction. The engagement projections can be arranged on the respective closure part in a row or in a matrix, so that several engagement projections are brought into engagement with one another for closing. The number of locking elements does not have to correspond to the number of engagement projections. In principle, a single locking element is sufficient to block the movement of the first closure part counter to the engagement direction relative to the second closure part. Advantageously, however, several locking elements can also be present.

[0031] For example, engagement projections can also be arranged periodically or in groups on the closure parts, so that the closure parts can be brought into engagement with one another in different closed positions. In particular, the engagement projections can also be implemented by groups of V-shaped or arcuate engagement projections arranged in a row or matrix.

[0032] In one embodiment, the first closure part has an engagement projection additional to the first engagement device, and the second closure part similarly has an engagement projection additional to the second engagement device. The engagement projection additional to the first engagement device is offset along the engagement direction from the first engagement projections, and the engagement projection additional to the second engagement device is offset along the engagement direction from the second engagement projections. It can be provided that the engagement projection additional to the first engagement device and the engagement projection additional to the second engagement device extend transversely (and in a straight line) to the engagement direction.In contrast to the first engagement projections and second engagement projections, which are arranged in a V-shape relative to one another, for example, the additional engagement projection on each closure part thus extends transversely to the engagement direction.

[0033] If the closure device is arranged, when used as intended, such that the engagement direction extends vertically, the additional engagement projections are advantageously arranged above the first engagement device and the second engagement device, which can provide an advantageous hold for the closure device.

[0034] In one embodiment, at least one of the electrical contact elements has a contact spring that is elastically deformed when the closure parts are brought together. Due to the contact spring, the contact elements of the closure parts come into contact with each other under elastic prestress when the closure parts are brought together, thus providing favorable electrical contact. In the closed position, the contact spring of one contact element presses against the other contact element, ensuring reliable electrical contact.

[0035] Advantageously, the contact elements of the closure parts rub against one another when the closure device is closed. The contact elements can each be arranged on a base body of the associated closure part and can point towards one another with contact surfaces such that the contact elements rub against one another tangentially when the engagement projections of the closure parts are brought into engagement in the engagement direction. Additionally or alternatively, it can also be provided that the contact elements rub against one another when the closure device is opened, i.e. when the closure parts are released from one another opposite to the engagement direction. By rubbing the contact elements against one another, it can be achieved, for example, that any dirt or the like that may be present on the contact elements is removed, so that the electrical contact between the closure parts can be improved.

[0036] In one embodiment, one of the closure parts has a guide element, for example in the form of a projection protruding from a base body, which engages with a guide opening of the other closure part when the closure parts are attached. The guide element and its engagement in the associated guide opening of the other closure part thus provide guidance for the closure parts relative to one another, particularly along the engagement direction in which the engagement projections of the closure parts are to be brought into engagement with one another when the closure parts are attached.

[0037] In a further embodiment, each closure part can have a base body composed of two partial bodies. The partial bodies can be made of different materials, for example, different plastic materials (e.g., with different hardnesses) or, on the one hand, a metal material and, on the other hand, a plastic material. In this way, for example, an inner partial body can be made of an electrically insulating material for electrically insulating the contact element arranged on the respective closure part, while an outer partial body can be made of a metal material, for example, to provide a resilient, shock-resistant housing.

[0038] According to a further aspect, a closure device for releasably connecting two parts a first closure part having a first engagement projection for forming a first engagement device, a second closure part having a second engagement projection for forming a second engagement device, wherein the first closure part and the second closure part can be placed against one another to close the closure device by the first engagement projection and the second engagement projection being engageable with one another in a positive-locking direction, so that the first closure part and the second closure part are mechanically connected to one another in a closed position in which the first engagement projection and the second engagement projection are in positive-locking engagement with one another, and a magnetic device acting between the first closure part and the second closure part, which is designed,to assist the attachment of the first closure part and the second closure part to each other by providing a magnetic attraction force.

[0039] In addition, it is provided that the first closure part has an engagement projection additional to the first engagement device and the second closure part has an engagement projection additional to the second engagement device, wherein the engagement projection additional to the first engagement device is offset along the engagement direction to the first engagement device and the engagement projection additional to the second engagement device is offset along the engagement direction to the second engagement projections.

[0040] Advantageous embodiments are specified in the subclaims relating thereto, and for explanation purposes reference is also made in particular to the foregoing.

[0041] In particular, the first engagement projection on the first closure part and the second engagement projection on the second closure part can be shaped and configured such that the engagement is reinforced when the closure device is under load. For example, two engagement projections can be provided on each of the first closure part and the second closure part, extending at an (acute) angle to one another, resulting in a V-shape. The tip of the V points in the engagement direction, which preferably also corresponds to a loading direction, so that the hold of the engagement projections of the first closure part in the engagement projections of the second closure part is reinforced when the device is under load.

[0042] In one embodiment, the first closure part has a first electrical contact element, and the second closure part has a second electrical contact element. In the closed position, the first electrical contact element and the second electrical contact element are operatively connected to one another in an electrically contacting manner. Electrical contact can therefore be established via the closure device when two assemblies are mechanically held together. The closure device thus enables assemblies to be easily attached to one another in a simple, magnetically assisted closing process and with a mechanically secure hold in the closed position. Closing the closure device simultaneously brings about electrical contact between the contact elements, so that in the closed position the closure parts of the closure device are also electrically connected to one another.

[0043] In order to prevent the closure parts from accidentally separating from one another in the closed position of the closure device, one embodiment additionally provides a locking element, which is designed, for example, as an elastic spring tongue arranged on a base body of one of the closure parts or as a locking part resiliently arranged on the base body, for example a pivotable locking part. When the first closure part is placed against the second closure part, the locking element deflects in such a way that the first engagement projection of the first closure part can be pushed in the engagement direction into engagement with the second engagement projection of the second closure part. During attachment, the locking element is thus pushed aside in such a way that the first engagement projection can be guided into engagement with the second engagement projection.During or after the engagement is established, the locking element returns to its home position and, in this home position, blocks the positive engagement of the first engagement projection with the second engagement projection in the opposite direction of engagement. The retention of the first engagement projection on the second engagement projection, and thus of the first closure part on the second closure part, is thus secured, so that the closure device cannot be opened inadvertently.

[0044] The locking element can be designed such that it returns to its home position when the engagement is established, or only after the engagement between the first engagement projection and the second engagement projection has been established. For example, the locking element can snap back into its home position as soon as the engagement is established (i.e., after the engagement has been established). However, it is also possible that the locking element, due to its elastic design, already exerts a preload on the other closure part upon the engagement being established, which presses the first engagement projection into engagement with the second engagement projection in the engagement direction, thus already supporting the engagement during the engagement.

[0045] The locking element can, for example, be pivotably mounted on the associated locking part. The locking element can be spring-loaded toward its home position, so that after deflection during application, the locking element automatically returns to its home position when the locking parts are in the closed position or approaching their closed position.

[0046] In the closed position, the first engagement projection of the first closure part is in positive engagement with the second engagement projection of the second closure part. This engagement is blocked by the locking element in that the locking element prevents the closure parts from moving relative to one another counter to the engagement direction, so that the engagement projections cannot be disengaged from one another counter to the engagement direction. To open the closure device, the blocking can be released, for example by deflecting the locking element from its basic position, for example by manual operation. Once the blocking of the positive engagement between the engagement projections of the first closure part and the second closure part is released, the engagement projections can be disengaged from one another counter to the engagement direction, so that the closure parts can be released from one another.

[0047] In principle, the magnetic device acts as a magnetic attraction in the closing direction, which can, for example, be directed approximately perpendicular to the engagement direction. Due to the effect of the magnetic device, the closure parts are thus mutually attracted when positioned in the closing direction. The force between the magnetic means is such that the first engagement projection of the first closure part is brought into engagement with the second engagement projection of the second closure part in a magnetically assisted manner, thus allowing the closure of the closure device to be closed largely automatically in a magnetically assisted manner.

[0048] For example, each closure part can be provided with a pair of two magnetic elements that are offset from one another along the engagement direction. This can counteract tilting of the closure parts relative to one another when closing the closure device. Furthermore, a beneficial force effect can be achieved in the direction of engagement of the engagement projections with one another.

[0049] The magnetic elements can be designed as permanent magnet elements, in which case the magnetic elements of the closure parts face each other with opposite magnetic poles, thus interacting in a magnetically attractive manner. However, it is also conceivable and possible for the magnetic elements to be formed, on the one hand, by permanent magnet elements and, on the other hand, for example, by ferromagnetic elements (magnetic armatures), which face each other and interact, creating a magnetic attraction between the closure parts.

[0050] In one embodiment, one of the closure parts has a guide element, for example in the form of a projection protruding from a base body, which engages with a guide opening of the other closure part when the closure parts are attached. The guide element and its engagement in the associated guide opening of the other closure part thus provide guidance for the closure parts relative to one another, particularly along the engagement direction in which the engagement projections of the closure parts are to be brought into engagement with one another when the closure parts are attached.

[0051] In a further embodiment, each closure part can have a base body composed of two partial bodies. The partial bodies can be made of different materials, for example, different plastic materials (e.g., with different hardnesses) or, on the one hand, a metal material and, on the other hand, a plastic material. In this way, for example, an inner partial body can be made of an electrically insulating material for electrically insulating the contact element arranged on the respective closure part, while an outer partial body can be made of a metal material, for example, to provide a resilient, shock-resistant housing.

[0052] According to a further aspect, a closure device for releasably connecting two parts a first closure part, a second closure part, wherein the first closure part and the second closure part can be placed against each other to close the closure device and are mechanically locked together in a closed position, and a magnetic device acting between the first closure part and the second closure part, which is designed to assist the placement of the first closure part and the second closure part against each other by providing a magnetic attraction force, characterized in that the first closure part has at least one first electrical contact element and the second closure part has at least one second electrical contact element, wherein the at least one first electrical contact element and the at least second electrical contact element rub against one another when the closure parts are placed against one another and / or when the closure parts are released from one another and are operatively connected to one another in an electrically contacting manner in the closed position.

[0053] The advantages and advantageous embodiments described above also apply to this solution, so reference should be made to the above explanations in their entirety. In particular, the features of the subclaims of claim 1 can also be combined with this solution.

[0054] The concept underlying the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures. They show: Fig. 1a view of a closure device with two closure parts; Fig. 2Aa plan view of the closure device, before closing; Fig. 2Ba sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 2A ; Fig. 2C a side view of the closure device; Fig. 3A a top view of the closure device during closing; Fig. 3B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 3A ; Fig. 3C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 3A ; Fig. 3D side view of the closure device; Fig. 4A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 4B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 4A ; Fig. 4C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 4A ; Fig. 4D side view of the closure device; Fig. 5A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 5B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 5A ; Fig. 5C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 5A ; Fig. 5D side view of the locking device; Fig. 6A a top view of the locking device in a closed position; Fig. 6B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 6A ; Fig. 6C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 6A ; Fig. 6D side view of the closure device; Fig. 7A a top view of the closure device with the closure parts placed at an angle to each other, before closing; Fig. 7B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 7A ; Fig. 7C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 7A ; Fig. 7D side view of the locking device; Fig. 8A a top view of the locking device when closing; Fig. 8B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 8A ; Fig. 8C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 8A ; Fig. 8D side view of the closure device; Fig. 9A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 9B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 9A ; Fig. 9C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 9A ; Fig. 9D side view of the closure device; Fig. 10A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 10B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 10A ; Fig. 10C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 10A ; Fig. 10D side view of the closure device; Fig. 11A top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 11B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 11A ; Fig. 11C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 11A ; Fig. 11D side view of the locking device; Fig. 12A a top view of the locking device in the closed position; Fig. 12B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 12A ; Fig. 12C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 12A ; Fig. 12D side view of the closure device; Fig. 13A a top view of the closure device, with the closure parts placed at an angle to each other, before closing; Fig. 13B a ​​sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 13A ; Fig. 13C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 13A ; Fig. 13D side view of the closure device; Fig. 14A top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 14B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 14A ; Fig. 14C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 14A ; Fig. 14D side view of the closure device; Fig. 15A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 15B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 15A ; Fig. 15C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 15A ; Fig. 15D side view of the closure device; Fig. 16A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 16B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 16A ; Fig. 16C a sectional view along the line BB according to Fig. 16A ; Fig. 16D side view of the locking device; Fig. 17A top view of the locking device in the closed position; Fig. 17B a sectional view along the line CC according to Fig. 17A ; Fig. 17C a sectional view along the line B, B according to Fig. 17A ; Fig. 17D side view of the locking device; Fig. 18A a view of an embodiment of a locking device on a holder for a bicycle; Fig. 18B a top view of the holder; Fig. 18C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 18B ; Fig. 19A a view of the locking device on the holder, when opened; Fig. 19B a top view of the holder; Fig. 19CA sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 19B ; Fig. 20A a view of the locking device on the holder, during further opening; Fig. 20B a plan view of the holder; Fig. 20C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 20B ; Fig. 21A a view of the locking device in the open position on the holder; Fig. 21B a top view of the holder; Fig. 21C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 21B ; Fig. 22A a plan view of the closure device of the embodiment according to Fig. 18A-18C bis 21A-21C , when closing the closure device; Fig. 22B a side view of the closure device; Fig. 22C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 22A ; Fig. 22Your enlarged view in section B according to Fig. 22C ; Fig. 23A a top view of the closure device, during further closing; Fig. 23B a side view of the closure device; Fig. 23C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 23A ; Fig. 23Your enlarged view in section B according to Fig. 23C ; Fig. 24A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 24B a side view of the closure device; Fig. 24C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 24A ; Fig. 24Your enlarged view in section B according to Fig. 24C ; Fig. 25A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 25B a side view of the closure device; Fig. 25C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 25A ; Fig. 25Your enlarged view in section B according to Fig. 25C ; Fig. 26A a top view of the closure device during further closing; Fig. 26B a side view of the closure device; Fig. 26C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 26A ; Fig. 26Your enlarged view in section B according to Fig. 26C ; Fig. 27A a plan view of the locking device in the closed position; Fig. 27B a side view of the locking device; Fig. 27C a sectional view along the line AA according to Fig. 27A ; Fig. 27Your enlarged view in section B according to Fig. 27C ; Fig. 28A a view of a bicycle with a locking device arranged thereon for attaching a rear light, with the locking device open; Fig. 28B an enlarged view in section A according to Fig. 28A ; Fig. 28C A view of the bicycle from the rear; Fig. 28D An enlarged sectional view along the line DD according to Fig. 28C ; Fig. 29A a view of the bicycle when closing the locking device; Fig. 29B an enlarged view in section A according to Fig. 29A , when closing the locking device; Fig. 29C a view of the bicycle from the rear; Fig. 29D sectional view along the line DD according to Fig. 29C ; Fig. 30A a view of the bicycle, with the locking device further closed; Fig. 30B an enlarged view in section A according to Fig. 30A ; Fig. 30C a view of the bicycle from the rear; Fig. 30D sectional view along the line DD according to Fig. 30C ; Fig. 31A an exploded view of the closure device according to Fig. 1 ; Fig. 31B another exploded view of the closure device; Fig. 32A a view of the closure device, with the closure parts separated; Fig. 32B another view of the closure device, with the closure parts separated; Fig. 33A a view of the closure device before closing; Fig. 33B another view of the closure device before closing; Fig. 34A a view of the closure device in the closed position; and Fig. 34B another view of the closure device in the closed position.

[0055] Fig. 1 bis 17A-17D as well as Fig. 31A , 31B bis 34A , 34B show an embodiment of a closure device 1 which has two closure parts 2, 3 and serves for releasably connecting two parts to one another.

[0056] As can be seen from the exploded views according to Fig. 31A , 31BAs can be seen, each closure part 2, 3 has a base body 20, 30, which is composed of two partial bodies 200, 201, 300, 301, which can be made of different materials. For example, the partial bodies 200, 201, 300, 301 can be made of different plastic materials or, on the one hand, of a plastic material and, on the other hand, of a metal material.

[0057] An engagement device 22, 32 is arranged on each of the base bodies 20, 30, which is formed on the inner part body 201, 301 and is formed by two engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321 arranged at an angle to one another and forming a V-shape (see Fig. 1 ) is formed.

[0058] While the engagement device 22 of one closure part 2 is designed as a recess, the engagement device 32 of the other closure part 3 is designed as a raised portion that can be inserted into the recess of the other engagement device 22. To close the closure device 1, the engagement devices 22, 32 can be placed against one another so that, in a closed position, the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321 engage one another in a form-fitting manner, thereby mechanically connecting the closure parts 2, 3.

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321 are formed as rigid sections on the inner partial bodies 201, 301 of the base bodies 20, 30 of the closure parts 2, 3. Offset from the engagement devices 22, 32, a further, additional engagement projection 23, 33 is arranged on each closure part 2, 3 (viewed along an engagement direction Y, along which the engagement devices 22, 32 can be brought into positive engagement with one another). This engagement projection 23, 33 is formed on the outer partial body 200, 300 of the associated base body 20, 30 and extends linearly and transversely to the engagement direction Y.Both the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321 of the engagement devices 22, 32 and the additional engagement projections 23, 33 are designed as undercuts and engage with each other in pairs when the closure parts 2, 3 are placed against each other in a closed position of the closure device 1, so that the closure parts 2, 3 are mechanically held against each other against a closing direction X.

[0060] A pair of magnetic elements 250, 251, 350, 351 is arranged on each base body 20, 30. These magnetic elements face each other with opposite magnetic poles, thus creating a magnetic attraction between the closure parts 2, 3. The magnetic elements 250, 251, 350, 351 magnetically assist the attachment of the closure parts 2, 3, so that the connection between the closure parts 2, 3 is established at least largely automatically.

[0061] On the closure part 3 there is also a locking element 36 in the form of a lever element pivotable about a pivot axis 361 (see for example Fig. 4C ) which can be deflected from a basic position and serves to secure the closure parts 2, 3 in their closed position relative to one another, so that the engagement between the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, 23, 33 is secured and cannot be easily released, at least not without removing the blocking by the blocking element 36. In the closed position, the blocking element 36 engages in a blocking opening 26 on the side of the other closure part 2, so that in this way the closure parts 2, 3 are secured relative to one another opposite to the direction of engagement Y.

[0062] On each side of the inner partial body 201, 301 facing the other closure part 2, 3, an electrical contact element 24, 34 is arranged, which serves to establish electrical contact between the closure parts 2, 3 in the closed position of the closure device 1. In the closed position, the contact elements 24, 34 are in electrical contact with one another, so that a current can flow through the contact elements 24, 34.

[0063] Fig. 2A-2C bis Fig. 6A-6D show the closure device 1 when closing, i.e. when the closure parts 2, 3 are placed together to close the closure device 1.

[0064] To close the closure device 1, the closure parts 2, 3 can be placed against each other in a closing direction X. When placed against each other, the magnetic elements 250, 251, 350, 351 of the closure parts 2, 3 interact in a magnetically attractive manner, so that when approaching, the closure parts 2, 3 are magnetically attracted to each other.

[0065] If the preparation is carried out as in the sequence of Fig. 2A-2C towards Fig. 6A-6D shown, plane-parallel, the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, 23, 33 come into contact with each other and run onto each other, as in the transition from Fig. 3C towards Fig. 4C is shown, due to run-up slopes formed on the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, 23, 33. By running the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, 23, 33 onto each other, the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, 23, 33 move past each other and, as in the transition from Fig. 5C to Fig. 6C shown, engage with each other in a positive-locking manner in the engagement direction Y.

[0066] The magnetic elements 250, 251, 350, 351 are arranged on the base bodies 20, 30 of the closure parts 2, 3 in such a way that the magnetic elements 250, 251, 350, 351 are offset from one another in the closed position and, when closing as well as in the closed position, cause a magnetic attraction force (also) in the direction of the closed position, i.e. in the direction of engagement of the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, 23, 33 with one another. Fig. 6B It can be seen that in the closed position, the magnetic elements 250, 251, 350, 351 are (slightly) offset from one another along the engagement direction Y in such a way that the magnetic attraction between the magnetic elements 250, 251, 350, 351 also acts with at least one directional component in the engagement direction Y and thus the closure parts 2, 3 are drawn into engagement with one another in the engagement direction Y. The positive engagement between the closure parts 2, 3 is thus produced in a magnetically assisted manner, preferably automatically, when the closure parts 2, 3 are placed against one another.

[0067] When the closure parts 2, 3 are placed against each other, the locking element 36 pivotably arranged on the closure part 3 is deflected from its basic position, as can be seen from Fig. 4C and 5Ccan be seen, due to an interaction of the closure part 2 with the locking element 36. The deflection of the locking element 36 from the basic position takes place against a prestressing effect of a spring element 37, as can be seen from Fig. 4B is evident, so that a spring-mechanical tension acts on the locking element 36 in the direction of the home position. Accordingly, when the closure parts 2, 3 reach the closed position, the locking element 36 is returned to the home position and engages with the locking opening 26 on the closure part 2, as can be seen from Fig. 6C is evident.

[0068] By engaging the locking element 36 in the locking opening 26, the position of the closure parts 2, 3 relative to one another along the engagement direction Y is secured. Due to the engagement of the locking element 36 in the locking opening 26, in particular the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, 23, 33 cannot disengage counter to the engagement direction Y, so that the positive connection between the closure parts 2, 3 is secured.

[0069] The locking element 36 is arranged on the closure parts 3 in the immediate vicinity of the engagement device 32, so that the positive connection between the closure parts 2, 3 is secured where the positive engagement exists. This improves the mechanical hold of the closure parts 2, 3 to one another.

[0070] As can be seen from the sequence of Fig. 4C towards Fig. 6C As can be seen, the contact elements 24, 34 slide over one another when the closure parts 2, 3 are brought into engagement with one another in the engagement direction Y. As a result, the contact elements 24, 34 rub over one another, which can have the effect of freeing the contact elements 24, 34 from any dirt or oxide layer that may be present, thus promoting reliable electrical contact.

[0071] In the closed position, the contact elements 24, 34 are in electrical contact with each other, as can be seen from Fig. 6C is visible so that a current can flow between the closure parts 2, 3.

[0072] Fig. 7A-7D bis 12A-12D as well as Fig. 13A-13D bis 17A-17D show the closing of the closure device 1 when the closure parts 2, 3 are placed obliquely against each other (wherein the direction of inclination of the closure part 3 relative to the closure part 2 is reversed in the sequences of the figures).

[0073] If the closure part 3 is inclined as in Fig. 7A-7D and 8A-8D attached to the closure part 2, the engagement projections 23, 33 first come into contact with each other and into engagement, as can be seen from Fig. 9C can be seen. By tilting the closure part 3 relative to the closure part 2, the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, supported by the magnetic interaction between the magnetic elements 250, 251, 350, 351, come into contact with each other and into engagement, so that in the closed position ( Fig. 12A-12D ) the closure parts 2, 3 are in turn positively engaged with each other.

[0074] When placed at an angle as in Fig. 13A-13D and 14A-14D First, the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321 come into contact with each other, and by tilting ( Fig. 15C ) the engagement projections 23, 33 are also moved towards each other and engage with each other, as shown in Fig. 16C and 17Cis shown.

[0075] The advantageous combination of the angularly arranged engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, the locking element 36 arranged near these engagement projections, and the straight engagement projections 23, 33 ensures that there is no misalignment, i.e., that only one group of engagement projections does not inadvertently engage and the locking element does not snap into place. The angularly arranged engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321 can also be formed by functionally identical arcuate engagement projections.

[0076] In each case, even when the closure parts 2, 3 are placed at an angle to one another, the contact elements 24, 34 slide over one another when the engagement projections 220, 221, 320, 321, 23, 33 engage with one another and before the closed position is established, as can be seen from Fig. 11C and 16Cis evident. Again, the connection of the closure parts 2, 3 is established by grinding the contact elements 24, 34 over one another.

[0077] If the closure 1 is to be opened, the locking element 36 can be moved out of its engagement with the locking opening 26 via an operating handle 360, so that the locking between the closure parts 2, 3 is released and the closure parts 2, 3 can be released from their positive engagement against the engagement direction Y. By pushing the closure parts 2, 3 away from each other against the engagement direction Y (in an opening direction Z, see Fig. 2C ) the closure parts 2, 3 can thus be separated from each other to release the assemblies assigned to the closure parts 2, 3.

[0078] When the closure parts 2, 3 are placed against one another, a guide element 31 on the closure part 3 also engages with a guide opening 21 on the other closure part 2. This provides a linear guide for the closure parts 2, 3 along the engagement direction Y, so that when the closure parts 2, 3 are placed against one another, the closure parts 2, 3 are guided toward one another along the engagement direction Y and are thus fixed to one another in particular transversely to the engagement direction Y.

[0079] Below the engagement projection 23, an engagement element 230 is formed on the closure part 2, as shown for example in Fig. 31A and Fig. 33B The engagement element 230 is assigned an engagement opening 330 on the engagement projection 33 of the other closure part 3 (see Fig. 33B ), so that in the closed position of the locking device 1, shown in Fig. 34A, 34B , via the engagement of the engagement element 230 in the engagement opening 330, the closure parts 2, 3 are additionally fixed to one another transversely to the engagement direction Y.

[0080] A locking device 1 of the described type can be used to connect any number of assemblies to one another. In the closed position of the locking device 1, the assemblies are mechanically firmly connected to one another, while the locking parts 2, 3 are simultaneously electrically connected to one another, allowing, for example, a power supply / power transmission between the assemblies.

[0081] In a Fig. 18A-18C bis 27A-27D In the embodiment shown, the locking device 1 is used to attach a bicycle light to a bicycle and is correspondingly assigned to a holder 4 which can connect, for example, a handlebar of a bicycle to a front wheel fork via fastening openings 40, 41.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the closure part 2 is attached to the holder 4, while the other closure part 3 is assigned to the bicycle light. By attaching the closure parts 2, 3 to one another, the bicycle light can be attached to the holder 4 and thus to the bicycle, while simultaneously establishing electrical contact, for example, for the purpose of supplying the bicycle light with electricity.

[0083] If the bicycle light is to be released from the holder 4, the operating handle 360 ​​can be operated in order to release the position between the locking parts 2, 3 so that the bicycle light can be released from the holder 4, as shown in Fig. 21A-21D.

[0084] In the embodiment according to Fig. 18A-18C bis 27A-27D The closure parts 2, 3 do not have any further, additional engagement projections 23, 33. Otherwise, this embodiment is functionally identical to the previously described embodiment, so reference should be made to the above explanation.

[0085] In the sequence of Fig. 22D bis 27D is shown in enlarged sectional views how, when closing the locking device 1, the electrical contact elements 24, 34 slide over each other in a sliding manner in order to come into electrical contact with each other in the closed position ( Fig. 27D ). This applies identically to the embodiment according to Fig. 18A-18C bis 27A-27D as for the previously described embodiment.

[0086] If the closure parts 2, 3 are placed against each other in the closing direction X, the engagement projections of the engagement devices 22, 32 initially run onto each other, as can be seen from the sequence of Fig. 22D towards Fig. 24D As a result, the engagement projections of the engagement devices 22, 32 move past each other, with a slight offset of the closure parts 2, 3 relative to each other, opposite to the engagement direction Y.

[0087] When the closure parts 2, 3 approach each other in the closing direction X, the contact element 24 of the closure part 2 acts on a contact spring 340, which protrudes from the contact element 34, and tensions it, as in the transition from Fig. 24D towards Fig. 25D can be seen. If the closure parts 2, 3 now move in the engagement direction Y into positive engagement with one another, the contact elements 24, 34 slide over one another in a sliding manner, in particular with the contact spring 340 mechanically tensioned against a surface 240 of the contact element 24.

[0088] By grinding the contact elements 24, 34 against each other, dirt can be removed and any oxide layer that may have formed on the contact elements 24, 34 can be scraped off, so that in the closed position ( Fig. 27D ) there is a reliable electrical contact between the contact elements 24, 34.

[0089] The locking device 1 can also be used to connect other components of a bicycle, for example to connect a rear light 6 to a bicycle frame 50 of a bicycle 5, as shown in Fig. 28A-28D bis 30A-30D is shown. Again, the locking device 1 serves to mechanically secure the rear light 6 to the bicycle frame 50 and also to establish electrical contact.

[0090] For the functional design and the functioning when closing and opening the closure device 1, for the embodiments according to Fig. 18A-18C bis 27A-27D and Fig. 28A-28D bis 30A-30DPlease refer in full to the explanations of the first described embodiment.

[0091] The idea underlying the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but can in principle also be implemented in completely different embodiments.

[0092] In particular, a locking device can also be designed without electrical contacts and thus serve for the purely mechanical-magnetic connection of two assemblies to one another.

[0093] A locking device - with or without electrical contact elements - can be used to connect components on a bicycle, but can also be used to connect any other components to each other. List of reference symbols

[0094] 1 Locking device 2 Locking part 20 Base body 200, 201 Partial body 21 Guide opening 22 Engagement device 220, 221 Engagement projection 222 Run-up bevel 23 Engagement device 230 Engagement element 24 Electrical contact 240 Surface 25 Magnetic device 250, 251 Magnetic element 26 Locking opening 3 Locking part 30 Base body 300, 301 Component 31 Guide element 310 Opening 32 Engagement device 320, 321 Engagement projection 322 Run-up bevel 33 Engagement device 330 Engagement opening 34 Electrical contact 340 Spring element 35 Magnetic device 350, 351 Magnetic elements 36 Locking element 360 Operating handle 361Pivot axis 37Spring element 4Bracket 40, 41Mounting opening 5Bicycle 50Bicycle frame 6Light XClosing direction YEngagement direction ZOpening direction

Claims

1. A closing device (1) for releasably connecting two parts, comprising - a first closing part (2), which has a first engaging projection (220, 221), - a second closing part (3) which has a second engaging projection (320, 321), wherein the first closing part (2) and the second closing part (3) can be attached to each other in order to close the closing device (1) and, in a closed position, are interconnected mechanically by the first engaging projection (220, 221) and the second engaging projection (320, 321) being in engagement with each other in a positive locking manner in the closed position, and - a magnetic device (25, 35) which acts between the first closing part (2) and the second closing part (3) and is designed to assist the attaching of the first closing part (2) and the second closing part (3) to each other by providing a magnetic attraction force, wherein the first closing part (2) has at least one first electrical contact element (24) and the second closing part (3) has at least one second electrical contact element (34), wherein, in the closed position, the at least one first electrical contact element (24) and the at least one second electrical contact element (34) are operatively connected to one another in an electrically contacting manner, wherein the first engaging projection (220, 221) and the second engaging projection (320, 321) are formed rigidly on a basic body (20, 30) of the respectively associated closing part (2, 3), characterized by a blocking element (36) which is arranged on one of the closing parts (2, 3) and, when the closing parts (2, 3) are attached to each other, is deflectable out of a basic position on the associated closing part (2, 3) in such a manner that the first engaging projection (220, 221) and the second engaging projection (320, 321) can be brought into engagement with each other in order to close the closing device (1), wherein the blocking element (36) is designed to move back into its basic position during or after production of the engagement in order, in the closed position, to block the positive locking engagement of the first engaging projection (220, 221) and the second engaging projection (320, 321) with each other.

2. The closing device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the blocking element (36) is arranged pivotably on the associated closing part (2, 3).

3. The closing device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first closing part (2) and the second closing part (3) each have at least one magnetic element (250, 251, 350, 351) which together realize the magnetic device (25, 35) and interact in a magnetically attracting manner during the closing of the closing device.

4. The closing device (1) as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that the at least one magnetic element (250, 251) of the first closing part (2) and the at least one magnetic element (350, 351) of the second closing part (3) are designed to interact, when the first closing part (2) and the second closing part (3) are attached to each other, in such a manner that a component of the magnetic attraction force acts in an engaging direction (Y) in which the first engaging projection (220, 221) and the second engaging projection can be brought into engagement with each other.

5. The closing device (1) as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that the at least one magnetic element (250, 251) of the first closing part (2) and the at least one magnetic element (350, 351) of the second closing part (3) are offset with respect to one another, as viewed along the engaging direction (Y), in the closed position in such a manner that, in the closed position, a magnetic attraction force acts between the first closing part (2) and the second closing part (3) in the engaging direction (Y).

6. The closing device as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two first engaging projections (220, 221) are arranged on the first closing part (2) and two second engaging projections (320, 321) are arranged on the second closing part (3), wherein the first engaging projections (220, 221) for forming a first engaging device (22) and the second engaging projections (320, 321) for forming a second engaging device (32) each extend at an angle to one another.

7. The closing device (1) as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that the first engaging projections (220, 221) and the second engaging projections are each extended obliquely with respect to an engaging direction (Y) in which the engaging devices (22, 32) can be brought into engagement with each other.

8. The closing device (1) as claimed in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the first closing part (2) has an additional engaging projection (23) to the first engaging device (22) and the second closing part (3) has an additional engaging projection (33) to the second engaging device (32), wherein the additional engaging projection (23) to the first engaging device (22) is offset along the engaging direction (Y) with respect to the first engaging projections (220, 221) and the additional engaging projection (33) to the second engaging device (32) is offset along the engaging direction (Y) with respect to the second engaging projections (320, 321).

9. The closing device (1) as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that the additional engaging projection (23) to the first engaging device (22) and the additional engaging projection (33) to the second engaging device (32) are each extended transversely with respect to the engaging direction (Y).

10. The closing device (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the electrical contact elements (24, 34) has a contact spring (340) which is elastically deformable when the closing parts (2, 3) are attached to each other.

11. The closing device (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, when the closing parts (2, 3) are attached to each other and / or when the closing parts (2, 3) are released from each other, the at least one first electrical contact element (24) and the at least one second electrical contact element (34) slide tangentially on one another by means of surfaces (240).

12. The closing device (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the closing parts (2, 3) has a guide element (31) which, when the closing parts (2, 3) are attached, engages in a guide opening (21) in the other of the closing parts (2, 3) in order to guide the attaching movement of the closing parts (2, 3) to each other.