Fixing device for a self-inking stamp

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a fixing device for fixing a self-inking stamp in a closed position, which comprises a stop for a contact surface of a housing of the self-inking stamp and a locking element connected to the stop, wherein a front side of the locking element is configured to engage an inner side of an actuating part of the self-inking stamp. Furthermore, the invention relates to a stamping device comprising the fixing device and a self-inking stamp.

[0002] Self-inking stamps known in the prior art typically comprise an actuating part, a housing, and an impression unit. The impression unit comprises an ink pad located in a pad holder for inking a stamp plate. Pressing the actuating part rotates the stamp plate 180°, thus creating a stamp impression.

[0003] In the closed position, the self-inking stamp is secured with the locking device, limiting the movement of the actuating part relative to the housing. A return spring provided in the actuating part is compressed.

[0004] In the rest position (also known as the inking position), the self-inking stamp is not secured with the locking device, and the return spring is relieved. In the rest position, the housing of the self-inking stamp is positioned primarily outside the actuating part of the self-inking stamp. In the operational state of the self-inking stamp, the housing is positioned below the actuating part, and the side of the stamp plate used for a stamp impression is facing upwards.

[0005] In the printing position, the self-inking stamp is not secured with the locking device, and a compressive force acts on the actuating part of the self-inking stamp, so that the housing is located inside the actuating part and the return spring is compressed. The side of the stamp plate used for a stamp impression faces downward in the operating state of the self-inking stamp, creating an impression on a suitable substrate.

[0006] Fixing devices and stamps, particularly self-inking stamps that are fixed with a fixing device, are generally known in the art. Most disclosures describe fixing devices that can be attached to and removed from a stamp.

[0007] WO 2016 / 197172 A1 describes a cover which is pushed onto a compressed stamp via the narrow side, wherein the cover is held on a holding element of the housing.

[0008] EP 2 634 005 B1 and EP 1 796 909 B1 describe a cover cap that is connected to the axle or axle stub of the impression unit of a hand stamp via a clamping device. When the hand stamp is compressed, the cover cap of EP 2 634 005 B1 is locked to the impression unit via locking elements.

[0009] EP 0 873 245 B1 discloses a locking mechanism for a cover with a stamp on its outer surface.

[0010] WO 2004 / 091923 A1 discloses a self-inking stamp with overprint inking. The stamp has two superimposed bases (SOC1, SOC2), both of which are movably mounted in a trigger element (AUS). Furthermore, a cover is provided that encloses the base in such a way that movement of the base relative to the trigger element is prevented. For activation, the respective cover element must be removed to allow relative movement and allow the stamp plate to contact the surface to be stamped.

[0011] Another stamp with a cover is known from CN 207 984 359 U.

[0012] In most prior art disclosures describing the locking of a fixing device with a plunger, the locking is released and the fixing device is removed by applying a tensile force. This force can lead to component failure, particularly irreversible deformation or fatigue fractures of locking elements, making it impossible to close the plunger.

[0013] AT 523250 A1 and the parallel CN ​​112 976 841 A describe a cover for a stamp, in particular a self-inking stamp, on which two opposing actuating elements are arranged. Each actuating element has a locking element, such as a locking hook, which, in the closed position, is locked to an actuating part of the stamp. By pressing the actuating elements together, the locking hook is pushed inward. The pressure applied releases the locking of the cover with the actuating part of the stamp, and the cover can be pulled off the stamp effortlessly. At the same time, the stamp, which is secured to the cover, returns to its rest position under the force of the return spring.The disadvantage, however, is that the locking element can relatively easily and unintentionally come loose under the action of the return spring, for example due to material fatigue after prolonged use or because the material becomes softer and therefore more compliant due to higher temperatures, for example during delivery and transport of the new stamp.

[0014] The fixing devices used in the prior art, as well as the housings and actuating parts of self-inking stamps, are often made of a plastic with a maximum continuous operating temperature of approximately 70 to 90 °C. When a self-inking stamp secured with a fixing device is stored at elevated temperatures, for example during transport, the components soften in the glass transition or melting range of the plastics. This leads to a significant decrease in mechanical properties, particularly strength and rigidity. This is accompanied by a significant impairment of the closing ability of the fixing device in the known devices.The locking mechanism of the fixing device with the actuating part often cannot withstand the opposing return force of the return spring of the self-inking stamp and is relatively easily pressed into a designated free space between the fixing device and the housing of the self-inking stamp, causing the locking mechanism to release.

[0015] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a fixing device for a self-inking stamp which has an improved closing capability and maintains this with greater reliability even during prolonged use and during storage over the entire continuous use temperature range of the stamp device.

[0016] The invention relates to a fixing device for fixing a self-inking stamp in a closed position, characterized in that the locking element is configured not only to engage with the front side of the locking element on the inside of the actuating part of the self-inking stamp, but also to bear against the housing of the self-inking stamp fixed by the fixing device with a rear side of the locking element opposite the inside of the actuating part. The invention further relates to a stamping device, wherein the self-inking stamp is fixed in the closed position by the fixing device.

[0017] The invention is based on the finding that by providing the locking element, which rests with its rear side on the outside of the housing of the self-inking stamp fixed with the fixing device, the reliable closing ability of the fixing device is considerably improved over the entire continuous use temperature range of the stamp device.

[0018] All disclosed embodiments of the present invention are interrelated, and each disclosed embodiment and / or each disclosed characteristic feature may be combined with each other and also as any combination of two or more embodiments and / or characteristic features.

[0019] For the purposes of this disclosure, terms such as "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc., refer to the intended operating condition of the self-inking stamp to produce an impression on a suitable substrate to which the stamp ink adheres (e.g., paper).

[0020] The fixing device has a locking element. A section of this locking element can be slightly deformable, for example due to an exposed position. The front side of the locking element locks into the inside of the actuating part of the self-inking stamp, whereby a free space, such as a groove, can be provided on the inside of the actuating part, into which space the locking element is received. By forming a positive connection between the locking element and the actuating part, the self-inking stamp is fixed in the closed position by the fixing device. The locking element is connected to the stop of the fixing device, on which the contact surface of the housing of the self-inking stamp rests in the closed position during use. In this closed position, the front side of the locking element rests against the inside of the actuating part of the self-inking stamp.In addition, the back of the locking element rests against the outside of the housing. The locking element is thus in contact with the self-inking stamp on both sides. Accordingly, there is no free space between the back of the locking element and the housing of the self-inking stamp into which the locking element could possibly escape under pressure or soften due to increased temperature, if it can no longer withstand the restoring force of the return spring on its own. Instead, the locking element is clamped between the actuating part and the housing of the self-inking stamp. To release the locking mechanism, not only the locking element but also the housing is deformed. This significantly improves the closing ability of the fixing device.

[0021] The fixing device can be made of plastic, for example acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), since this thermoplastic has good mechanical properties and in particular good elasticity, which is advantageous for deforming or bending the fixing device, in particular the locking element. The housing of the self-inking stamp is also made of a plastic, which can be transparent for aesthetic reasons. Due to their transparency and high strength and impact resistance, the thermoplastics polycarbonate (PC) or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) are suitable for this, with PMMA proving particularly suitable due to its excellent scratch resistance. It has been found that by forming contact between the locking element and the self-inking stamp on both sides, the closing ability of the fixing device according to the invention can be increased across the entire continuous use temperature range of the plastics used for the fixing device and the self-inking stamp, i.e.i.e. even at elevated temperatures, is significantly improved.

[0022] The locking element of the locking device can have a locking hook to further improve the holding force of the locking device. The locking hook can be arranged on the front side of the locking element in its exposed section, so that the locking hook engages in a locking lug provided inside the actuating part of the self-inking stamp when closed. Due to the contact surface of the locking hook with the inside of the actuating part, which is arranged perpendicular to the restoring force of the return spring, a particularly stable, positive-locking connection is formed, and the closing capacity of the locking device is particularly high.

[0023] The rear side of the locking element of the fixing device can further comprise a support element. In the closed position, the support element rests against the outside of the housing. The support element can be designed in various geometric shapes, such as a circle, an ellipse, or an elongated shape, in particular in the form of a support rib. The support element provided on the locking element increases the local rigidity of the fixing device. This makes it possible to reduce the wall thickness of the locking element in order to save material. If the support element extends over the area between the stop for the contact surface of the housing of the self-inking stamp and the locking element, this area can also be designed with a thinner wall thickness by stiffening the support element. Furthermore, the provision of a support element reduces the contact area between the locking element and the self-inking stamp.Reducing the contact area does not affect the closing ability of the fixing device, but removing the fixing device from the self-inking stamp is made much easier due to the reduced frictional force caused by the reduced contact area.

[0024] Instead of providing a support element on the locking element, or in addition thereto, a support element can be provided on the outside of the housing of the self-inking stamp. This support element can be designed in various geometric shapes, such as a circle, an ellipse, or an elongated shape, in particular in the form of a support rib. Firstly, the support element increases the local rigidity of the housing. Secondly, in the closed position, the support element rests against the back of the locking element of the fixing device, thereby reducing the contact area, so that the removal of the fixing device from the self-inking stamp is considerably simplified due to the reduced friction force.

[0025] The provision of a support element on the locking element of the fixing device has the advantage over the provision of a support element on the housing of the self-inking stamp in that no adjustment of the mold for the production of the housing, which is carried out, for example, by injection molding, is required. Conversely, a support element provided on the locking element of the fixing device can scratch the housing when the fixing device is removed from the self-inking stamp. This is prevented by providing the support element on the housing of the self-inking stamp instead, making this design advantageous for aesthetic reasons.

[0026] The back of the locking element of the fixing device can have a roller. This can be provided instead of a support element. A rotational axis of the roller is perpendicular to a removal direction of the fixing device from the self-inking stamp. Due to the reduced friction (rolling friction instead of sliding friction), removal of the fixing device is made considerably easier and can be achieved by a rolling motion. This reduces or completely prevents the occurrence of sliding friction, so that scratching of the outside of the housing of the self-inking stamp can be avoided. In an advantageous embodiment, the roller is provided at the lower end of the locking element, i.e., below the exposed section of the locking element. Thus, the release of the locking mechanism by pressure application is not impaired by the presence of the roller.The roller also reduces the contact area between the fixing device and the self-inking stamp in the closed position. Even linear contact along the height of the cylindrical roller with the outside of the self-inking stamp's housing can occur. This further simplifies removal. At the same time, the roller provides sufficient rigidity so that the locking element cannot easily and accidentally detach itself, even in this design.

[0027] The stop of the fixing device can be designed as a covering surface for covering the contact surface of the self-inking stamp's housing. The acting return force of the return spring creates a high pressing force between the covering surface of the fixing device and the contact surface of the housing, thus ensuring a good seal. To cover the contact surface of the self-inking stamp's housing, the covering surface of the fixing device can extend over the entire contact surface of the housing. This makes it possible to seal the interior of the self-inking stamp dust-tight and to apply the pressing force resulting from the return force of the return spring evenly to the contact surface of the self-inking stamp with the fixing device in the closed position. Furthermore, by completely covering the contact surface of the self-inking stamp's housing, unwanted contamination with stamp ink, for example of objects, is prevented.

[0028] The footprint of the self-inking stamp can, for example, be round, elliptical, or trapezoidal, in particular rectangular. In order to effectively seal a contact surface of the housing of the self-inking stamp with a substantially trapezoidal, in particular rectangular, footprint, the covering surface of the fixing device can also be substantially trapezoidal, in particular rectangular, in order to completely cover the contact surface of the housing.

[0029] The fixing device can also have side walls. If the fixing device has a cover surface, the side walls border the cover surface and are approximately perpendicular to the cover surface. Side walls not only improve user-friendliness, particularly the handling of the fixing device, but also the closing ability of the fixing device, since the side walls of the fixing device partially overlap with the side walls of the housing of the self-inking stamp in the closed position. This increases the contact area between the fixing device and the self-inking stamp and limits the degrees of freedom of the fixing device, reducing twisting and / or displacement of the fixing device relative to the self-inking stamp and thus further improving the closing ability.In the closed position, the side walls of the locking device can be flush with the side walls of the actuating part of the self-inking stamp, so that the housing of the self-inking stamp is completely inside the stamping device when closed. This not only lends the stamping device an aesthetic appearance but also provides excellent protection against dust ingress.

[0030] If the fixing device has side walls, different sections of the side walls can have different heights. For example, in the case of a substantially rectangular design, the wide side walls can have a lower height than the long side walls. This results in a comparatively large overlap of the long side walls of the fixing device with the outside of the housing of the self-inking stamp. This is accompanied by a correspondingly different height of the side walls of the actuating part with a substantially rectangular cross-sectional area, which is higher at sections of the wide side walls than at sections of the long side walls, so that in the closed position a flush finish of the side walls of the fixing device with the side walls of the actuating part of the self-inking stamp is ensured.The comparatively low height of the long side walls of the actuating part allows the pad container, which contains the ink pad, to be located outside the actuating part in the rest position and can be pushed out of the self-inking stamp housing and replaced. The comparatively high, wide side walls of the actuating part, in turn, support and protect the axle bearings of the impression unit, which can be linearly displaced relative to the housing, for example, by means of pin-shaped axles in guide grooves that may be provided in the wide side surfaces of the self-inking stamp housing.

[0031] The fixing device can have two locking elements that are opposite one another. The rear sides of the two locking elements, which are provided for locking into the inside of the actuating part of the self-inking stamp, face each other. The provision of two opposing locking elements, whose rear sides are arranged parallel to one another and which are opposite one another, in particular with respect to a central axis of the return spring of the stamp to be fixed, is particularly advantageous for the closing ability of the fixing device, since the restoring force of the return spring is introduced evenly into the fixing device via the two locking elements. In a fixing device with a substantially rectangular covering surface, two locking elements can be provided on the two long sides of the covering surface. If the fixing device has side walls, two locking elements can be provided on the two long side walls.Since the longitudinal side walls of the fixing device are naturally particularly easy to deform in the middle, i.e., halfway along the respective long side, the provision of two locking elements in the middle of the longitudinal side walls of the fixing device is particularly well suited for closing a substantially cuboid-shaped self-inking stamp. In the case of two locking elements, each of the locking elements can have a support element, or two support elements can be provided on the outside of the housing of the self-inking stamp, which, in the closed position, rest against the respective rear sides of the locking elements. This enables uniform release of the locking on both sides and uniform removal of the fixing device from the self-inking stamp.

[0032] The fixing device can have an actuating element between the stop for the contact surface of the self-inking stamp housing and the locking element. This actuating element can be approximately circular or elliptical, and / or shaped like a recess. This improves user-friendliness, as it is thus easily visible how the fixing device can be removed from the self-inking stamp. The actuating element can also be arranged between the stop for the contact surface of the self-inking stamp housing and the exposed area of ​​the locking element. By pressing on the actuating element, the locking of the locking element on the inside of the actuating part of the self-inking stamp is released. The actuating element can have an anti-slip feature, for example in the form of grooves or symbols, to ensure a secure grip for the fingers.Furthermore, the actuating element can be labeled (e.g., "Drück" or "Press"), so that the user can immediately see where on the locking device the pressure must be applied to release the locking mechanism. If the locking device has side walls, the actuating element can be located on the side walls. Two opposing, parallel actuating elements can also be provided, which further improves user-friendliness, as the appropriate positions for pressing the locking device together are thus easily visible.

[0033] The cover surface of the fixing device can have a support element on which the contact surface of the housing rests in the closed position. The provision of a support element ensures a distance between the cover surface of the fixing device and the contact surface of the housing in the closed position. Since the side of the stamp plate used for stamping faces the cover surface in the closed position, the provision of this distance prevents soiling of the cover surface by stamping ink adhering to the stamp plate and scratching of the stamp plate. Four support elements can also be provided, which, for example, have a rectangular cross-sectional area and are distributed at regular intervals around the circumference of the cover surface of the housing of the self-inking stamp.In this embodiment, the housing's contact surface rests evenly and firmly on the support elements, preventing any movement of the housing relative to the fixing device. If the fixing device has side walls, the support element can be flush with the side walls, which improves the stability of the support element and simplifies production in the injection molding process.

[0034] The cover surface of the fixing device can have a guide element on the side facing the self-inking stamp in the closed position. The guide element is arranged outside the contact surface of the housing that is accommodated by the stop of the fixing device, so that it does not hinder the fixing of the self-inking stamp with the fixing device. The guide element has an approximately round or rectangular cross-sectional area and, in the closed position, is accommodated in a corresponding recess in the actuating part of the self-inking stamp. The effect of external forces, for example during transport, can lead to a relative displacement and / or twisting of the fixing device with respect to the self-inking stamp, which not only impairs the closing ability but can also reduce the service life of the stamp device and lead to component failure.By accommodating the guide element in the corresponding recess of the actuating part, relative displacement and / or rotation of the fixing device relative to the self-inking stamp is prevented or at least reduced, and the closing capability of the fixing device is further improved. Furthermore, the guide element simplifies the positioning and placement of the contact surface of the self-inking stamp housing on the stop of the fixing device.

[0035] The recess in the actuating part, into which the guide element is accommodated in the above variant, can also be provided for guiding the housing in the actuating part of the self-inking stamp. This minimizes the number of recesses on the side of the actuating part of the self-inking stamp facing the locking device in the closed position. This not only maintains greater rigidity and strength of the actuating part, but also increases the static friction force due to the larger available contact area between the actuating part and the cover surface of the locking device, thus improving the locking ability of the locking device.

[0036] If the fixing device has side walls, the guide element is naturally higher than the section of a side wall that is located in the immediate vicinity of the guide element, so that the section of the side wall does not impede the guide element's insertion into a corresponding recess in the actuating part of the self-inking stamp. The guide element can be flush with the side wall. This not only simplifies production during the injection molding process but also benefits the stability of the guide element.

[0037] The cover surface of the fixing device can have, on the side facing the self-inking stamp in the closed position, outside the housing contact surface to be accommodated, in particular two, three, or four guide elements which, in the closed position, are received in corresponding recesses in the actuating part of the self-inking stamp. The guide elements can be distributed over the circumference of the cover surface. In the case of a square cover surface, approximately four guide elements can be arranged in the four corner regions of the cover surface. The two, three, or four guide elements largely prevent displacement and / or twisting of the fixing device. The provision of several guide elements also simplifies the positioning and placement of the contact surface of the housing of the self-inking stamp on the stop of the fixing device.Guide elements with facing bevels can also be provided to help the contact surface of the housing of the self-inking stamp to slide into the position required for fixing.

[0038] The invention is further explained below with reference to descriptions of preferred embodiments, to which, however, it is not intended to be limited. It should be noted that some of the figures and their components are not drawn to scale for clarity.

[0039] Fig. 1a-d show an embodiment of the fixing device according to the invention for a self-inking stamp, wherein the fixing device in Fig. 1a in elevation, in Fig. 1b sideways, in Fig. 1c in the cross section and in Fig. 1d is shown in the floor plan.

[0040] Fig. 2a-d show sectional views of a stamping device, where Fig. 2a the stamping device is in the closed position, Fig. 2b an excerpt from Fig. 2a enlarged, and Fig. 2c-d show the stamping device in the rest position.

[0041] Fig. 3 shows a self-inking stamp from below (ie from the side facing the fixing device in the closed position).

[0042] Fig. 4 shows a stamping device in side view, with the self-inking stamp fixed with the fixing device (closed position).

[0043] Fig. 5a-b show the elevation of a self-inking stamp, the housing of which has a support element, with various embodiments of the support element in Fig. 5a und Fig. 5b be illustrated.

[0044] Fig. 6a-b show sectional views of a self-inking stamp, the housing of which has a support element, with different embodiments of the support element in Fig. 6a und Fig. 6b be illustrated.

[0045] Fig 7a-d show a further embodiment of the fixing device according to the invention for a self-inking stamp, wherein the fixing device in Fig. 7a in a sectional view of the floor plan, in Fig. 7b sideways, in Fig. 7c in a sectional view of the cross section and in Fig. 7d is shown in the floor plan.

[0046] Fig. 8a-b show sectional views of a further embodiment of a stamping device according to the invention in the closed position ( Fig. 8a ) and in rest position ( Fig. 8b ).

[0047] Fig. 1a-d show a fixing device 1 with a substantially rectangular, plate-shaped covering surface 2 for covering a substantially cuboid-shaped self-inking stamp 3. For other geometric designs of the self-inking stamp 3, a corresponding adaptation of the geometric dimensions of the fixing device 1 is necessary. The fixing device 1 has side walls 4 which project in one direction and border the covering surface 2. The long side walls 4 are higher than the wide side walls 4. In the middle of the outer sides of the long side walls 4, two opposing actuating elements 5 are provided, which have an actuating surface 6. The actuating surface 6 is in the form of a recess and has grooves to ensure a secure hold for the fingers and prevent slipping.Furthermore, the actuating surface 6 is provided with an inscription ("Press"), so that it is immediately apparent at which point on the fixing device 1 the pressure must be applied to release the locking mechanism. On the outer sides of the two longitudinal side walls 4, two opposing locking elements 7 are provided, the rear sides 8 of which are arranged parallel to each other. These locking elements 7 each have an outwardly directed locking hook 10 on their front side 9 for hooking into a locking lug 11 of an actuating part 12 of the self-inking stamp 3. The two actuating elements 5 are arranged between an exposed section of the locking elements 7 and the cover surface 2 in the upper region of the outer sides of the two longitudinal side walls 4.

[0048] As from Fig. 1a-d As can also be seen, four support elements 15 are arranged on the side of the cover surface 2 facing the self-inking stamp 3 in the closed position for mounting a mounting surface 13 of a housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3. The support elements 15 extend in the direction of the side walls 4 of the fixing device 1, wherein they have a lower height than the side walls 4, so that the fixing of the self-inking stamp 3 to the fixing device 1 is not impeded. The provision of the support elements 15 ensures a distance between the cover surface 2 and the mounting surface 13 of the housing 14, so that scratching of the stamp plate 16 and soiling of the cover surface 2 by stamping ink adhering to the stamp plate 16 are prevented.

[0049] The side of the cover surface 2 facing the self-inking stamp 3 in the closed position has four guide elements 17 which are provided outside a contact surface 13 of the housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3, as can be seen from Fig. 1a-d as can also be seen. The guide elements 17 are flush with the side walls 4 of the fixing device 1, being higher than the height of the immediately adjacent side walls 4, so that the fixing of the self-inking stamp 3 to the fixing device 1 is not impeded and the guide elements 17 can be accommodated in corresponding recesses 18 of the actuating part 12 of the self-inking stamp 3. The cross-sectional area of ​​the guide elements 17 is rectangular and decreases with increasing distance from the cover surface 2. Accordingly, the guide elements 17 are beveled, with the beveled surfaces of two guide elements 17 facing each other. This simplifies the positioning and placement of the contact surface 13 of the housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3 onto the support elements 15 of the fixing device 1.

[0050] On the longitudinal side walls 4 of the fixing device 1, as shown in Fig. 1b As shown, two opposing support ribs 19 are provided on the inner sides, which are arranged normal to the cover surface 2 and extend essentially over the entire height of the side walls 4. By providing the support ribs 19, the contact surface between the rear side of the locking element 7 and the outer side of the housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3 is reduced. Instead of a flat contact surface, there is a linear contact surface, which reduces the frictional force and makes it easier to remove the fixing device 1 from the self-inking stamp 3.

[0051] As from Fig. 1a-d As can also be seen, the fixing device 1 is formed as a single injection-molded part, with the cavity being filled through the injection point 20 located in the center of the cover surface 2. This ensures uniform filling of the cavity. Ejection is achieved using four ejector pins arranged in the corner areas of the cover surface 2. The injection-molded fixing device 1 is of high quality, warp-free, and free of residual stresses. The underside of the cover surface 2 has four feet 21 in the corner areas, which ensures stable positioning on a base.

[0052] In Fig. 2a a stamping device 22 comprising an embodiment of the fixing device 1 according to the invention and a self-inking stamp 3 is shown in the closed position, and in Fig. 2c-d in rest position. Fig. 2b shows an enlarged section 23 of the Fig. 2a . Inside the longitudinal side surfaces of the actuating part 12 of the self-inking stamp 3, two opposing free spaces 24 are formed, which have a locking lug 11, into which the locking elements 7 of the fixing device 1, provided with locking hooks 10, engage in the closed position. The actuating part 12 is slightly curved outwards in the area of ​​the free space 24, so that the free space 24 is only formed in the area of ​​the bulge. As a result, the fixing device 1 can only be pushed onto the housing 14 of the relieved self-inking stamp 3 in a specific position, thus ensuring an optimal closing effect. The housing 14 is pressed into the actuating part 12 by the pressure force applied to the actuating part 12, while the fixing device 1 is pushed onto the housing 14 in the direction of the actuating part 12.The locking elements 7 of the fixing device 1 engage with their locking hooks 10 into the corresponding locking lugs 11 of the actuating part 12, which are provided in the free spaces 24. The positive connection fixes the self-inking stamp 3 to the fixing device 1 in the closed position, as can be seen from FIG. Fig. 2a is visible. Due to the acting restoring force of the return spring 25, which is provided in the upper region of the actuating part 12, the pressing force between the fixing device 1 and the self-inking stamp 3, in particular the contact surface 13 of the housing 14, is increased in the closed position.

[0053] As in Fig. 2b As shown enlarged, the front side 9 of the locking element 7 rests on the inside of the actuating part 12 of the self-inking stamp 3 in the closed position. In addition, the back side 8 of the locking element 7 rests on the outside of the housing 14. Accordingly, there is no free space between the back side 8 of the locking element 7 and the housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3 into which the locking element 7 could possibly give way when subjected to pressure or softening due to an increase in temperature, if it can no longer withstand the restoring force of the restoring spring 25. The closing ability of the fixing device 1 according to the invention is considerably improved by the formation of two contact surfaces of the locking element 7, i.e. its front side 9 and back side 8, with the actuating part 12 and with the housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3.

[0054] To release the locking mechanism, the user presses together the two opposing actuating elements 5, which are arranged on the longitudinal side walls 4 of the fixing device 1. This pushes the side walls 4 of the fixing device 1, on which the actuating elements 5 and locking elements 7 are arranged, inward, and the locking of the locking elements 7 with the actuating part 12 of the self-inking stamp 3 is released. This allows the fixing device 1 to be subsequently pulled off effortlessly in a displacement direction 26 to make the stamping device 22 ready for use.

[0055] As from Fig. 2a-d As can also be seen, an impression unit 27 made of a plastic, for example polyoxymethylene (POM), is arranged in the actuating part 12 of the self-inking stamp 3, since this thermoplastic is characterized by high strength, hardness and rigidity and can withstand shock loads such as those that occur when the self-inking stamp 3 is fixed with the fixing device 1 or during the printing process. A stamp plate 16 is mounted on the impression unit 27 and, when the self-inking stamp 3 is in the rest position, rests against a stamp pad 28 that is impregnated with stamp ink and provided in a pad container 29. The side of the stamp plate 16 used for a stamp impression is oriented upwards, i.e. on the side opposite the fixing device 1 in the closed position. The impression unit 27 is mounted with pin-shaped axle parts 30 so as to be displaceable in guide grooves 31 which are provided in the broad side surfaces of the housing 14.To create a stamp impression, the impression unit 27 with the stamp plate 16 is moved into the printing position via a turning mechanism 32. The stamp plate 16 is rotated 180° by the downward movement of the actuating part 12, so that the side of the stamp plate 16 used for a stamp impression faces downward in the printing position and can create a stamp impression.

[0056] Fig. 3 shows the self-inking stamp 3 from below (i.e., from the side facing the fixing device 1 in the closed position). Accordingly, the side of the impression unit 27 opposite the stamp plate 16 is visible. The contact surface 13 of the housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3 is partially provided with a sprayed-on rubber layer 33. This rubber layer 33 is provided on the wide-side sections and partially on the long-side sections of the contact surface 13 of the housing 14. It prevents the self-inking stamp 3 from slipping when creating a stamp impression.

[0057] Out of Fig. 3 Four recesses 18 are also visible, which are provided on the side of the actuating part 12 facing the fixing device 1. These recesses 18 are designed in the form of guide strips, which are provided parallel to the guide grooves 31 for uniform guidance of the housing 14 in the actuating part 12 of the self-inking stamp 3. This ensures that the housing 14 does not rotate relative to the actuating part 12 during displacement, but only a linear movement in or against the direction of displacement 26 is possible. Furthermore, the guide elements 17 of the fixing device 1 are received in the recesses 18, whereby displacement and / or rotation of the fixing device 1 relative to the self-inking stamp 3 is prevented or at least reduced, thereby further improving the closing ability of the fixing device 1.

[0058] Fig. 4 shows the stamping device 22 according to Fig. 2a-d , comprising the fixing device 1 and the self-inking stamp 3, in a side view in the closed position. A locking or blocking element 34 in the form of a button is provided on the broad side surfaces of the actuating part 12. By locking the self-inking stamp 3, it can be fixed in the printing position without the need for fixing it with the fixing device 1. Projections 35 of the locking element 34, which protrude into the interior of the housing 14 (as shown in Fig. 2d visible) to secure the housing 14 so that the return spring 25 remains in the compressed position. If properly locked, accidental release of the impression unit 27 is thus impossible, and easy replacement of the stamp plate 16 is enabled.

[0059] Fig. 5a-b shows the elevation of two further self-inking stamps 3 in the unloaded position. The two longitudinal side surfaces of the housing 14 each have a support element 36 in the form of an elongated support rib ( Fig. 5a ) or in the form of a circle ( Fig. 5b ). These support elements 36 can be provided instead of the support ribs 19 of the fixing device 1. Each of the support elements 36 is positioned such that, in the closed position, it rests against the rear side 8 of a locking element 7 of the fixing device 1. This reduces the contact area between the locking element 7 and the housing 14, and a linear or point-shaped contact surface is formed, so that the removal of the fixing device 1 from the self-inking stamp 3 is considerably simplified due to the reduced frictional force.

[0060] In Fig. 6a-b are sectional views of the Fig. 5a-b The versions of the self-inking stamp shown in the figure are shown. Fig. 5a shown embodiment of the support element 36 in the form of an elongated support rib in Fig. 6a and the Fig. 5b shown embodiment of the support element 36 in the form of a circle in Fig. 6b each shown in side view.

[0061] Fig. 7a-d show a fixing device 1 which corresponds to the Fig. 1a-d shown embodiment. The difference is that the fixing device 1 of the Fig. 7a-d instead of support ribs 19, it has two opposing rollers 37. These rollers 37 are arranged at the lower end of two opposing locking elements 7, i.e., below exposed sections of the locking elements 7. An axis of rotation of the roller 37 is normal to a pulling direction 26 of the fixing device 1 from a self-inking stamp 3, so that pulling can be effected by a roller movement and scratching of a housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3 can be prevented.

[0062] In Fig. 8a-b a stamping device 22 is in the closed position ( Fig. 8a ) and in rest position ( Fig. 8b ). This corresponds to the stamping device 22 of the Fig. 2a-d similar, but has rollers 37 on the backs of two locking elements 7 of the fixing device 1. The rollers 37 are arranged below exposed sections of the two locking elements 7 (as in Fig. 7a-d(shown). There is only linear contact between the fixing device 1 and a self-inking stamp 3, specifically between a height of the cylindrical rollers 37 and an outer side of a housing 14 of the self-inking stamp 3, which simplifies removal. This results in the formation of a free space 38 between a section of the rear side of the locking element 7 or an inner side of a longitudinal side wall 4 of the fixing device 1 and the outer side of the housing 14. Due to the high rigidity of the rollers 37, the locking elements 7 cannot easily and unintentionally detach due to pressure application and the associated deformation of the respective exposed sections of the locking elements 7.

Claims

1. A fixing device (1) for fixing a self-inking stamp (3) in a closed position, wherein the fixing device (1) comprises a stop for a contact surface (13) of a housing (14) of the self-inking stamp (3) and a latching element (7) connected to the stop, wherein a front face (9) of the latching element (7) is designed for latching on an inner face of an operating part (12) of the self-inking stamp (3), characterised in that the latching element (7) is also designed to rest, with a rear face (8) of the latching element (7) opposite the inner face of the operating part (12), on the housing (14) of the self-inking stamp (3) fixed using the fixing device (1).

2. The fixing device (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the latching element (7) comprises a latching hook (10).

3. The fixing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the rear face (8) of the latching element (7) comprises a support element (19), in particular a support rib.

4. The fixing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the stop of the fixing device (1) is configured as a covering surface (2) for covering the contact surface (13) of the housing (14) of the self-inking stamp (3).

5. The fixing device (1) according to claim 4, characterised in that the covering surface (2) is provided for covering a substantially trapezoidal, in particular rectangular, contact surface (13) of the housing (14) of the self-inking stamp (1).

6. The fixing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the fixing device (1) comprises side walls (4) which are designed to terminate flush with side walls of the operating part (12) of the self-inking stamp (3) fixed using the fixing device (1).

7. The fixing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the fixing device (1) comprises two opposing latching elements (7) with rear faces (8) facing each other.

8. The fixing device (1) according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that an operating element (5) is provided between the stop of the fixing device for the contact surface (13) of the housing (14) of the self-inking stamp (3) and the latching element (7).

9. A stamp device (22) comprising a fixing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and a self-inking stamp (3) comprising an operating part (12), a housing (14) and an imprinting unit (27), wherein the self-inking stamp (3) is fixed in a closed position using the fixing device (1).

10. The stamp device (22) according to claim 9, characterised in that the housing (14) of the self-inking stamp (3) comprises a supporting element (36), in particular a supporting rib, on an outer side, the supporting element (36) resting on a rear face (8) of a latching element (7) of the fixing device (1).