Latch device, drainage gutter and gutter system

Abstract

The invention relates to a locking device (10) for a drainage channel (40), which has a first connection area (11) and a second connection area (12), wherein the two connection areas (11, 12) are arranged opposite each other and connected to each other by a web (13), wherein the two connection areas (11, 12) each comprise at least one locking element (14) for connecting to a side wall (41) of the drainage channel (40), wherein the locking element (14) locks into position during assembly into the side wall (41) for stabilization, and the two connection areas (11, 12) have further positive locking elements (15', 15", 15'') by which the locking device (10) can be connected to a further locking device (10'). The invention further relates to a drainage channel and a channel system.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a locking device, a drainage channel, and a channel system. A locking device according to the preamble of claim 1 is known, for example, from EP 2 995 732 A1.

[0002] Drainage channels are used to drain terraces, facades, or flat roofs. These channels are installed in the ground to be drained. Surface water flows from above into the drainage channels via grates. Such drainage channels can also be referred to as facade drainage channels.

[0003] From the aforementioned EP 2 995 732 A1, for example, a facade gutter is known which has connecting elements that can be broken out of the gutter body. The connecting elements form transverse struts that are inserted into the side walls of the gutter body for their fixation. Furthermore, tab-shaped connecting elements are integrally formed on the gutter body, by which, for example, two gutter bodies can be connected to each other in the longitudinal direction of the gutter.

[0004] Such facade gutters are conventionally manufactured using a bending process to form the gutter body and any connecting elements in a single piece. The large number of bends required results in increased labor and manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the use of tab-shaped connecting elements leads to increased material waste during production, as these extend beyond the actual gutter body.

[0005] Furthermore, angled cross braces are known from the prior art for stiffening facade gutters in the transverse direction. These cross braces are manufactured with an increased number of bends and are connected to the side walls of the gutter body, for example, by rivets. Due to the bends, such cross braces exhibit high manufacturing tolerances, which negatively affect the width tolerance of the gutter body. Moreover, they are often only connectable to the side walls with increased assembly effort and are therefore cost-intensive to manufacture.

[0006] To reduce manufacturing costs, it is advantageous to produce facade gutters using roll forming for high-volume production. However, roll forming has the disadvantage compared to bending that setup times and tooling costs are higher. Therefore, bending is often a better option for manufacturing facade gutters in small quantities.

[0007] The invention is based on the objective of providing a locking device for a drainage channel that is cost-effective to manufacture and easy to install. The invention is further based on the objective of providing a drainage channel and a channel system.

[0008] According to the invention, this problem is solved with regard to the locking device by the subject matter of claim 1. With regard to the drainage channel and the channel system, the aforementioned problem is solved by the subject matter of claim 14 (drainage channel) and claim 15 (channel system), respectively.

[0009] Specifically, the task is solved by a locking device for a drainage channel. The locking device has a first connection area and a second connection area, the two connection areas being arranged opposite each other and connected by a web. Each of the two connection areas includes at least one locking element for connecting to a side wall of the drainage channel. During assembly, the locking element engages in the side wall, securing it in position for stabilization. Furthermore, the two connection areas have additional positive locking elements, allowing the locking device to be positively connected to the positive locking elements of another locking device with the same features.

[0010] The invention offers several advantages. Due to the two connecting areas linked by the web, the locking mechanism has a simple design, thus reducing manufacturing costs. When the locking mechanism is installed, the locking element engages with the respective side wall of the drainage channel. This secures the locking mechanism within the drainage channel, preventing it from slipping or falling out. In other words, the locking mechanism is securely locked into position within the drainage channel when installed. The locking element interacts with the side wall in a form-fitting manner. The snap-fit ​​connection between the locking mechanism and the side walls eliminates the need for additional fasteners or fixings, thereby reducing the number of components. Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​connection allows for quick and easy installation of the locking mechanism in the drainage channel with minimal effort.This reduces the manufacturing costs of the drainage channel.

[0011] The connecting areas generally serve to connect the locking mechanism to the side walls of the drainage channel. Additionally, the connecting areas serve to connect the locking mechanism to a further locking mechanism. According to the invention, this further locking mechanism is a locking mechanism according to claim 1 of the invention. In the assembled state, in addition to the locking mechanism being fixed by the locking element, the respective side wall is also fixed in position. This has the advantage that the locking mechanism stabilizes the drainage channel's shape via the side walls. This is particularly advantageous when manufacturing the drainage channel using a roll forming process, since stresses are released when the continuous profile strand of the drainage channel is cut to the desired channel length, resulting in at least partial re-deformation before and after the cut edge.The cut profile section can deform back from the cut edge over a length of up to 20 cm. The installed locking mechanism prevents this deformation. This has the advantageous effect of ensuring a visually clean appearance of the drainage channel. When installed, the locking mechanism is in its final position within the drainage channel, firmly connected to the side walls via the connecting sections. These connecting sections engage with the side walls.

[0012] The invention has the further advantage that the locking device can be positively connected to the positive-locking elements of another locking device according to the invention, thereby allowing the drainage channel to be easily extended or lengthened by the locking devices in the assembled state. The locking device thus advantageously enables a modular construction, thereby reducing assembly effort and costs.

[0013] Preferred embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0014] In a particularly preferred embodiment, each of the two connecting areas has at least one retaining element that extends outwards along the longitudinal direction of the web and to which the locking element is flexibly, and in particular elastically, connected. In other words, the locking device has two identical retaining elements at the connecting areas, extending outwards in opposite longitudinal directions along the web. In the assembled state, the retaining elements can engage the side walls of the drainage channel and form a stop transverse to the longitudinal direction of the channel for the side walls. The retaining elements serve to hold the side walls of the drainage channel, fixing the side walls to their outer surfaces in the assembled state. Additionally, the retaining elements serve as supports for the locking elements.When installed, the locking elements apply a preload force to the retaining elements, ensuring the locking mechanism is securely held in position within the drainage channel. The flexible connection between the locking elements and the retaining elements allows for preloading during installation, enabling the locking elements to engage automatically in the side walls of the locking mechanism in its final assembly position, often without requiring additional force. This facilitates quick and easy installation of the locking mechanism.

[0015] The flexible connection between the locking element and the retaining element allows the locking mechanism to be detachably connected to the side walls of the drainage channel when installed. In other words, the locking element can be released by pivoting it elastically, allowing the locking mechanism to be removed.

[0016] Within the scope of the invention, the arrangement, alignment, design or extension of elements of the locking device "outwards" or "outside" is to be understood as the arrangement, alignment, design or extension of the elements in a direction leading away from a center of the web.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, at least one material recess is formed between the locking element and the retaining element, allowing the locking element to pivot elastically during assembly. In other words, the locking element is connected to the retaining element by an elastic section with a material thickness that is less than the combined material thickness of the locking element and the retaining element. This material recess allows the locking element to move elastically on the retaining element. This simplifies assembly.

[0018] In another preferred embodiment, the locking element has an angle, particularly an obtuse angle, to the retaining element, such that the locking element extends obliquely outwards from the retaining element. In the assembled state, this advantageously increases the contact force against the respective side wall, ensuring that the locking device is firmly connected to the side wall and that the shape of the side wall is maintained. This results in a visually clean appearance of the drainage channel.

[0019] Preferably, the locking element has an engagement surface that, during assembly, makes contact with the side wall to elastically pre-tension the locking element. During assembly, the retaining element with the locking element is inserted into a through-opening in the side wall. Upon insertion into the through-opening, the engagement surface rests against a lateral edge of the opening, and its angled position creates an elastic pre-tension on the locking element. In the final assembly position of the locking device, the locking element engages automatically, particularly without any additional force, at the edge of the through-opening. The engagement surface advantageously improves the handling of the locking device and simplifies assembly.

[0020] Preferably, the locking element has at least one locking step which, in the assembled state, interacts with the side wall and secures the locking mechanism. The locking step can be located at the free, particularly upper, end of the locking element. It is conceivable that the locking element has more than one locking step, in particular two locking steps.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the retaining element has at least one retaining surface which, in the assembled state, rests flat against an outer surface of the side wall. The retaining surface can rest fully or at least partially against the outer surface of the side wall. The retaining surface stabilizes the side wall against its outer surface. This has the advantage of ensuring the desired shape of the drainage channel.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment, the retaining element is T-shaped and has a transverse web and a longitudinal web. The retaining surface is formed on the inside of the transverse web and, in the assembled state, rests against the outer surface of the side wall on both sides of the longitudinal web. The opening in the side wall of the drainage channel can have a keyhole shape. This allows the retaining surface to rest against the outer surface of the side wall on both sides, thus achieving a stable attachment of the side wall.

[0023] Preferably, the holding surface has an angle, particularly an acute angle α of 3°, to a vertical plane of the locking device. The vertical plane is spanned transversely to the web that connects the two connecting areas. It is advantageous that the locking device is suitable for drainage channels whose side walls can be securely fixed at an inclination of 3° towards the center of the channel.

[0024] In a further preferred embodiment, each of the two connection areas has at least one contact element arranged opposite the retaining element. The retaining element and the contact element are preferably spaced apart to accommodate the side wall. The retaining element and the contact element are connected to each other. Specifically, the transverse web of the retaining element can be connected to the contact element by the longitudinal web. In the assembled state, the contact element forms an internal counterpart to the externally arranged retaining element, with the side wall being fixed between the contact element and the retaining element. The minimum distance between the contact element and the retaining element can correspond to the side wall thickness of the drainage channel. The retaining element and the contact element advantageously allow the side wall to be securely fixed.The system element has the further advantage of preventing impermissible bending of the side wall towards the center of the channel.

[0025] The retaining element and the mounting element can be arranged in such a way that, in the assembled state, the side wall is fixed in a form-stabilizing manner. This ensures a visually clean appearance of the drainage channel. Furthermore, in a drainage channel manufactured using a roll forming process, this prevents the channel profile from reshaping or springing back in the area of ​​the cut edge.

[0026] Furthermore, the system component can have at least one contact area which, in the assembled state, is in line contact or small-area contact with an inner surface of the side wall. Such a contact area prevents collisions or jamming of the locking mechanism against the side wall during assembly.

[0027] Preferably, at least one spacer element is provided, which, in the assembled state, creates a gap, at least in sections, between the channel bottom of the drainage channel and the two connecting areas, as well as the web. This has the advantage that, in the assembled or installed state of the drainage channel with the locking device, the surface water to be drained from the channel is allowed to flow. In other words, the gap is designed to allow surface water to drain away in the channel. The gap can be designed such that coarse contaminants, such as larger stones, soil, or debris, are trapped by the locking device and thus filtered out. This has the advantage that, when the locking device is used as the end cap of the drainage channel, the ingress of such contaminants is prevented.

[0028] The locking element can be connected to the spacer element so that, when installed, the locking element pre-tensions the spacer element against the channel base to secure the locking mechanism. The spacer element can be rod-shaped, plate-shaped, and / or studded. The locking element, in combination with the spacer element, enables the locking mechanism to be tensioned within the channel body of the drainage channel. This ensures a secure fit of the locking mechanism.

[0029] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the positive locking element of the first connection area forms a receiving element, and the positive locking elements of the second connection area form a fixing element and a positioning element. The locking device can be connected to the further locking device via the receiving element, the fixing element, and the positioning element. The further locking device can be the locking device according to claim 1, as described above. The receiving element serves to receive a further fixing element and a further positioning element of the further locking device. The fixing element serves to fix the locking device to the further locking device in the longitudinal direction of the channel. The positioning element serves for the lateral and vertical alignment of the two locking devices relative to each other. In the assembled state, the two drainage channels can be connected at their end faces by the locking devices.The drainage channels together form a common drainage channel or channel system. In other words, the drainage channels can be extended as needed using the locking mechanisms.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the receiving element forms a C-shaped extension that extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web and is designed such that a further positioning element of the additional locking device can be positively engaged. The C-shaped extension can be open transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web and outwards along the longitudinal direction of the web. In the assembled state, the receiving element can form a pocket with the inner surface of the associated side wall into which the further positioning element of the additional locking device can engage for alignment. When the locking device is arranged on an end face of the drainage channel, interaction with the further positioning element of the additional locking device is enabled, thus allowing the alignment of two drainage channels relative to each other.

[0031] In a further preferred embodiment, the receiving element has at least one fixing surface to interact with a further fixing element of the additional locking device. The fixing surface can be formed at an angle, particularly an acute angle, to the longitudinal direction of the web. Starting from the first connection area, the fixing surface can slope obliquely inwards, particularly towards the center of the channel. This area of ​​the receiving element can form an undercut in which the fixing surface is arranged. When the locking device is connected to the additional locking device, the additional fixing element engages in the undercut of the receiving element, so that the additional fixing element interacts with the fixing surface. It is advantageous that a secure connection of the locking devices in the longitudinal direction of the channel is achieved.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the fixing element is hook-shaped and extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web. The fixing element is designed to interact under preload with a fixing surface of a receiving element of the further locking device. This has the advantage that the locking devices are firmly connected to each other in the longitudinal direction of the channel. To release the locking devices from each other, the preload force of the fixing element must first be overcome. This prevents the locking devices from separating on their own.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment, the positioning element is plate-shaped and extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web. The positioning element is designed to engage positively with a receiving element of the further locking mechanism. As described above, the positioning element serves for the lateral and vertical alignment of the locking mechanisms relative to each other. For lateral alignment, the positioning element can rest against the side wall and the receiving element. For vertical alignment, the positioning element can rest against the receiving element in both vertical directions, particularly at the top and bottom. In this case, the positioning element can be in contact only with the short legs of the C-shaped extension of the receiving element. The positioning element thus has the advantage that two drainage channels can be easily and quickly brought into a desired position relative to each other by the locking mechanisms.

[0034] Generally, the walkway preferably has several openings to allow water to flow through it when installed. Beams can be incorporated between these openings to provide a stiffening structure for the walkway. This has the advantage of preventing the ingress of stones or gravel when the crossbar is used as the end cap of the drainage channel.

[0035] Preferably, the two connecting areas and the bridge are made of plastic. In other words, the locking mechanism can be made of plastic. The locking mechanism can be made entirely or at least partially of plastic. Preferably, the two connecting areas and the bridge are formed in one piece. It is advantageous that the locking mechanism can be manufactured by injection molding, thus enabling high production volumes at low unit costs. Furthermore, significantly smaller tolerances are possible when manufacturing the locking mechanism by injection molding compared to a locking mechanism manufactured by bending. Furthermore, manufacturing the locking mechanism by injection molding has the advantage that complex shapes can be realized, thus allowing for functional expansion of the locking mechanism with minimal effort.

[0036] Preferably, at least one recess is formed between the web and the respective connection area to at least partially accommodate at least one drainage channel. The recesses can form troughs. It is advantageous that, in the assembled state, the individual drainage channels can engage with their side walls in the recesses of the locking mechanism of another drainage channel. This facilitates stacking the drainage channels and reduces the stacking height when stacked. Furthermore, it advantageously ensures secure positioning of the drainage channels, for example, on a pallet for storage or transport.

[0037] According to dependent claim 14, the invention relates to a drainage channel, in particular a facade channel, with two side walls and at least one locking device according to the invention, wherein the side walls extend longitudinally and have at least two through-openings arranged opposite each other. The locking device is inserted into the through-openings so that the locking elements of the locking device are engaged in the side walls.

[0038] According to the dependent claim 15, the invention relates to a channel system with at least two drainage channels and at least two locking devices according to the invention, wherein a locking device is fixedly arranged on an open end face of the drainage channels and interacts with the receiving element of the respective opposite locking device by means of the fixing element and the positioning element such that the drainage channels are connected to each other.

[0039] The advantages of the drainage channel and channel system are described in relation to those explained in connection with the locking mechanism. Furthermore, the drainage channel and channel system may alternatively or additionally feature one or a combination of several of the features previously mentioned in relation to the locking mechanism.

[0040] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments represent examples of how the locking device, the drainage channel, and the channel system according to the invention can be designed.

[0041] These show, Fig. 1 a perspective view of a drainage channel with several locking devices according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 a perspective view of the locking device according to Fig. 1 ; Fig. 3 a longitudinal section through the locking device according to Fig. 1 , where the locking device is shown in the assembled state; Fig. 4 a perspective view of the drainage channel and the locking device according to Fig. 1 before the installation of the locking device; Fig. 5 a side view of the drainage channel and the locking device according to Fig. 1before the installation of the locking device; Fig. 6 a side view of the drainage channel and the locking device according to Fig. 1 , where the locking device is shown in the assembled state; Fig. 7 a perspective view of the drainage channel and the locking device according to Fig. 1 , wherein the locking device is shown in the assembled state; Fig. 8 a top view of a channel system with two drainage channels and two locking devices according to Fig. 1 before a connection; Fig. 9 a perspective view of the two locking devices according to Fig. 8 , where the drainage channels are not shown; Fig. 10 a detailed view of a longitudinal section through the channel system according to Fig. 8 , after the drainage channels are connected by the locking devices; Fig. 11 a top view of the channel system according to Fig. 8, after the drainage channels are connected by the locking devices; and Fig. 12 a side view of several drainage channels with locking devices mounted according to Fig. 1 in a stacked state;

[0042] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a drainage channel 40 with several locking devices 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. The drainage channel 40 can be used for draining terraces, facade areas, or flat roofs, and is installed as a drainage system in the ground to be drained. Such a drainage channel 40 can also be referred to as a facade channel.

[0043] The drainage channel 40 has two side walls 41 and a channel base 44 that connects the two side walls 41. The side walls 41 extend longitudinally along the channel and taper towards the center of the channel. Specifically, the side walls 41 are each inclined towards the center of the channel. The side walls 41 form an angle α of 3° with a z-plane spanned orthogonally to the channel base 44 and longitudinally along the channel. In other words, the side walls 41 are oriented at an angle α of 3° to the z-plane. This is in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 clearly visible.

[0044] Furthermore, the side walls 41 each include a step 45 extending longitudinally along the channel and serving as a support for an inlet element, in particular a grating. The step 45 can be arranged parallel to the channel bottom 45. A collar 46 adjoins the step 45, as shown in the Figs. 3 to 7As shown, it is formed with a fold at one free end. The collar 46 extends in the longitudinal direction of the groove.

[0045] According to Fig. 1 The drainage channel 40 is shown in its assembled state with a total of three locking devices 10. The assembly of the individual locking devices 10 will be discussed in more detail later. More than three locking devices 10 can also be installed in the drainage channel 40. Alternatively, fewer than three locking devices 10 can also be installed in the drainage channel 40.

[0046] Fig. 2 A perspective view shows a locking device 10 according to Fig. 1 The locking device 10 serves to stiffen and stabilize the shape of the drainage channel 40. Furthermore, the locking device 10 can be connected to another locking device 10, so that several drainage channels 40 can be connected to form a channel system 60. The channel system 60 will be described later based on the Figs. 8 to 11 described.

[0047] According to Fig. 2 The locking device 10 has two connecting areas 11, 12, which are arranged opposite each other and connected by a web 13. Each of the two connecting areas 11, 12 has a locking element 14, a retaining element 16, and a contact element 24 to connect the locking device 10 to the respective side wall 41 of the drainage channel 40. Fig. 3 , 6 to 8 as well as 10 and 11 It is clearly visible how the elements 14, 16, 24 interact with the respective side wall 41 in the assembled state.

[0048] The locking device 10 is made of plastic. The locking device 10 can be made entirely or at least partially of plastic. It is conceivable that the locking device 10 also includes metal parts. In other words, the locking device 10 can be made of both plastic and metal. Preferably, the locking device 10 is formed in one piece.

[0049] As in Fig. 2 As shown, the retaining element 16 is arranged on the outside of the respective connection area 11, 12 in the longitudinal direction of the web 13. The retaining element 16 is T-shaped and has a transverse web 22 and a longitudinal web 23. The transverse web 22 is arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web 13 and extends, for example, from a horizontal installation position of the locking device 10, essentially vertically. In other words, the retaining element 16 is arranged vertically at the respective connection area 11, 12.

[0050] The locking element 14 is flexibly connected to the crossbar 22 of the retaining element 16. Specifically, the locking element 14 is connected to the crossbar 22 by an elastic section 47. In other words, the elastic section 47 is formed between the locking element 14 and the retaining element 16. The elastic section 47 has a material recess 17, allowing the locking element 14 to pivot elastically during assembly. The locking element 14 and the retaining element 16 are formed in one piece.

[0051] The locking element 14 of the respective connection area 11, 12 forms an angle with respect to the retaining element 16, such that the locking element 14 extends obliquely outwards from the elastic area 47. The angle is an obtuse angle.

[0052] The locking element 14 further comprises a locking step 19, which is formed at a free end 48 of the locking element 14. In the assembled state, the locking step 19 interacts with the side wall 41, thus securing the locking device 10. It is conceivable that the locking element 14 has several, in particular at least two, locking steps 19 to secure the locking device 10. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the locking element 14 is continuously adjustable. In this case, the locking device 10 would be secured by surface pressure between the locking element 14 and the side wall 41.

[0053] As in Fig. 2As shown, an insertion surface 18 is formed between the locking step 19 and the elastic area 47. During assembly, this insertion surface is in contact with the side wall 41 to elastically pre-tension the locking element 14 against an opening edge 49 of a through-opening 51 in the side wall 41. The insertion surface 18 is formed on a side or outer surface 52 of the locking element 14 facing away from the web 13.

[0054] The retaining element 16 shows, as in the Fig. 5, 6 and 11 A retaining surface 21 is clearly visible, which, in the assembled state, rests against an outer surface 42 of the side wall 41. The retaining surface 21 is formed on a side or inner side 53 of the cross web 22 facing the web 13. According to Fig. 11It is shown that the retaining surface 21 of the cross web 22, in the assembled state, rests against the outer surface 42 of the side wall 41 on both sides of the longitudinal web 23. The retaining surface 21 rests against the side wall 41 over its entire surface. Alternatively, the retaining surface 21 can also rest against the outer surface of the side wall 41 only partially or in sections. It is conceivable that the retaining surface 21 is in point contact or in line contact with the outer surface 42 of the side wall 41.

[0055] As in Fig. 6 As shown, the cross web 22 of the retaining element 16 is arranged at an angle α of 3° to the z-plane of the drainage channel 40. In other words, the cross web 22 forms an angle α of 3° with the z-plane. The z-plane coincides with a vertical plane of the locking device 10. Specifically, the retaining surface 21 of the cross web 22 is aligned with the vertical plane of the locking device 10 at an angle α of 3°. The cross web 22 extends obliquely outwards.

[0056] As described above, the two connection areas 11, 12 each comprise a support element 24. The support element 24 is arranged opposite the retaining element 16. Specifically, the transverse web 22 of the retaining element 16 is arranged opposite the support element 24, with the longitudinal web 23 of the retaining element 16 connecting the transverse web 22 to the support element 24. The support element 24 and the transverse web 22 of the retaining element 16 are spaced apart from each other to accommodate the side wall 41 of the drainage channel 40 during the assembly of the locking device 10. The distance between the transverse web 22 and the support element 24 is Fig. 5 clearly visible.

[0057] As in Fig. 6As shown, the retaining element 16 and the contact element 24 are arranged relative to each other such that, in the assembled state, the side wall 41 is fixed in a form-stabilizing manner. The contact element 24 has a contact area 25 that is in line contact or small-area contact with an inner surface 43 of the side wall 41. The contact element 24 has a surface 53 on its contact side, which is opposite the retaining surface 21 of the retaining element 14. The distance between the retaining surface 21 and the surface 53 increases in the installation direction or in the assembly direction.

[0058] Furthermore, the system element 24 has an arched dome 54, which is formed longitudinally between the web and the retaining element. In the assembled state, the arched dome 54 is arranged between the web 13 and the side wall 41, as shown in the Figs. 3 to 8 The arched dome 54 is formed on the side of the system element 24 facing away from the channel bottom 44.

[0059] The locking device 10 further comprises two spacer elements 26, which are formed on a side of the web 13 facing the channel bottom 44 in the assembled state. The spacer element 26 projects beyond the web 13 and the connection areas 11, 12, so that in the assembled state a gap 27 is formed between the channel bottom 44 and the web 13 or the connection areas 11, 12. Surface water can flow through the gap 27 in the installed state of the drainage channel 40. Furthermore, the web 13 has several through-openings 34 through which surface water can also flow in the drainage channel 40. Beams 56 can be formed between the through-openings 34, which form a stiffening structure for the web 13. This has the advantage that when using the locking device 10 as the end-face closure of the drainage channel 40, the ingress of stones or gravel is prevented.

[0060] According to Fig. 6In its assembled state, the spacer element 26 rests against the channel base 44. Besides ensuring the gap 27 remains intact, the spacer element 26 also introduces a clamping force into the channel base 44. In its assembled state, this force is transferred from the locking element 14 via the spacer element 26 to the channel base 44. The locking element 14 is connected to the spacer element 26, so that the locking element 14 pre-tensions the spacer element 26 against the channel base 44. This tensions the locking device 10 in the drainage channel 10 and thus secures it firmly.

[0061] In Fig. 2It is shown that a recess 55 is formed between the system element 24 and the web 13. The recess 55 has two recesses, each designed to receive a folded end of another drainage channel 40. This allows a large number of drainage channels 40 to be stacked in a space-saving manner. A large number of stacked drainage channels 50 are shown in Fig. 12 shown.

[0062] The following describes the installation of the locking device 10 in the drainage channel 40 using the Figs. 3 to 7 described.

[0063] The Fig. 3 and 7 The figures show the locking device 10 in its assembled state. The locking device 10 is fixed in the drainage channel 40 and is in its final assembly position. Fig. 4 and 5 The locking device 10 is shown before assembly.

[0064] According to Fig. 4Each side wall 41 has at least one through-opening 51. The through-opening 51 is partially vertical and horizontal in the side wall 41. In other words, the through-opening 51 extends in the side wall 41 in the section of the side wall 41 inclined towards the center of the channel and in the step 45. The through-opening 51 is keyhole-shaped. In the area of ​​the step 45, the through-opening 51 is bounded by an opening edge 49. For assembly, the locking device 10 with the retaining element 16 is positioned above the through-opening 51. The locking device 10 is then pushed into the respective through-opening 51 by means of the retaining elements 16.

[0065] During insertion, the transverse web 22 passes through the opening 51 in the area of ​​the step 45. The longitudinal web 23 of the retaining element 16 engages in the opening 51 in the inclined area of ​​the side wall 41, thus guiding the locking device 10 during insertion. Before the locking device 10 reaches its final assembly position, the locking element 14 rests against the opening edge 49 via the insertion surface 18. As the locking device 10 continues to be inserted, the locking element 14 pivots elastically, thus pre-tensioning it against the opening edge 49. Upon reaching its final assembly position, the locking element 14 pivots towards the opening edge 49 and engages with the locking step 19 on the opening edge 49 of the side wall 41. The locking step 19 engages positively with the opening edge 49. In its assembled state, the locking device 10 is firmly locked to the drainage channel 40. Figs. 5 to 7show the assembled state of the locking device 10, wherein according to Fig. 7 the locking device 10 is arranged on an open end face 57.

[0066] Due to the elastic connection between the locking element 14 and the retaining element 16, the locking device 10 is detachably connected to the side walls 41 of the drainage channel when installed. When disassembling the locking device 10, the locking connection between the locking element 14 and the opening edge 49 is released by pivoting the locking element 14. The locking device 10 can then be pulled out of the drainage channel 40.

[0067] As in Fig. 2As further shown, the two connection areas 11, 12 of the locking device 10 have further positive locking elements 15', 15", 15‴ by which the locking device 10 can be positively connected to another locking device 10 according to the invention. The positive locking element 15' of the first connection area 11 forms a receiving element 28. The second connection area 12 has two further positive locking elements 15", 15‴, which form a fixing element 29 and a positioning element 31.

[0068] The further locking device 10 according to the Figs. 8 to 11 corresponds to the locking device 10 according to the invention. Figs. 1 to 7 In the following description, therefore, similar devices or elements have the same reference numerals. Alternatively, the additional locking device 10 can also be a locking device 10 distinct from the locking device 10 according to the Figs. 1 to 7 It may be a different locking mechanism.

[0069] According to Fig. 2The receiving element 28 forms a C-shaped extension 32 that extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web 13 and is designed such that a further positioning element 31 of the further locking device 10 can be received in a form-fitting manner. The C-shaped extension 32 is open transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web 13 and outwards along the longitudinal direction of the web 13. In the assembled state, the receiving element 28 forms a pocket with the inner surface 43 of the side wall 41, into which the further positioning element 31 of the further locking device 10 engages for alignment. The C-shaped extension 32 has an internally formed contact surface 58 for the further positioning element 31. In the connected state of the two locking devices 10, as in Fig. 10 and 11As shown, the respective positioning element 31 rests against the respective inner surface 43 of the side wall 41 and the contact surface 58. This ensures that the locking devices 10 and thus the drainage channels 40 are laterally aligned and fixed.

[0070] Furthermore, the receiving element 28 has a fixing surface 33 for interaction with another fixing element 29 of the further locking device 10. The fixing surface 33 is formed at an angle β, in particular an acute angle, to the longitudinal direction of the web 13. The fixing surfaces 33 of the receiving element 28 are, for example, in the Fig. 4 , 10 and 11 The fixing surface 33 extends diagonally inwards from the mounting element 24 towards the center of the channel. The area between the receiving element 28 and the mounting element 24 forms an undercut in which the fixing surface 33 is arranged.

[0071] As described above, the second connection area 12 has a fixing element 29. The fixing element 29 is hook-shaped. The fixing element 29 extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web 13. Furthermore, the fixing element 29 is designed to interact under preload with a fixing surface 33 of a receiving element 28 of the further locking device 10. The fixing element 29 can thus be subjected to a preload force. The fixing element 29 is resilient. In other words, the fixing element 29 forms a spring element.

[0072] Furthermore, the second connection area 12 includes the positioning element 31, which is plate-shaped and extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web 13. The positioning element 31 is designed to engage positively in a receiving element 28 of the further locking device 10 (see figure). Fig. 9The positioning element 31 is designed such that, in the connected state of the locking devices 10, the positioning element 31 engages positively with the further receiving element 28. The positioning element 31 is bounded on two sides, in particular at the top and bottom, by the further receiving element 28, so that the locking devices 10 and the drainage channels 40 are fixed in both vertical directions.

[0073] As in Fig. 10 and 11As shown, the fixing element 29 rests against the respective fixing surface 33. The fixing element 29 is pressed against the fixing surface 33 by an acting preload force, so that the locking devices 10 and thus the drainage channels 40 are connected to each other and form a common channel system 60. For connecting the locking devices 10, the fixing elements 29 each have an inclined surface 59 which causes elastic bending of the fixing element 29 during the snap-fit ​​process. To release the snap connection between the two locking devices 10, the preload force of the fixing elements 29 must be overcome. The fixing element 29 therefore allows the two locking devices 10 to be detachably connected to each other.

[0074] Fig. 11Figure 1 shows two drainage channels 40 which, as described above, are connected to each other by the locking devices 10. The locking devices 10 are fixedly arranged on the open end faces 57 of the drainage channels 40. The locking devices 10 interact with the receiving element 28 of the opposing locking device 10 via the fixing element 29 and the positioning element 31, such that the drainage channels 40 are connected to each other. Reference symbol list

[0075] 10 Locking device 11 First connection area 12 Second connection area 13 Web 14 Locking element 15 Further positive locking elements 16 Retaining element 17 Material recess 18 Entry surface 19 Locking step 21 Retaining surface 22 Transverse web 23 Longitudinal web 24 Mounting element 25 Contact area 26 Spacer element 27 Gap 28 Receiving element 29 Fixing element 31 Positioning element 32 C-shaped extension 33 Fixing surface 34 Passage openings 40 Drainage channel 41 Side wall 42 Outer surface of the side wall 43 Inner surface of the side wall 44 Channel bottom 45 Step 46 Collar 47 Elastic area 48 Free end of the locking element 49 Opening edge 51 Passage opening 52 Outer side of the locking element 53 Surface of the mounting element 54 arched dome 55 recess 56 beam 57 open end face of the drainage channel 58 mounting surface of the extension 59 inclined surface of the fixing element 60 channel system o angle between holding surface and vertical plane β angle between fixing surface and longitudinal direction

Claims

1. Latch device (10) for a drainage gutter (40), which comprises a first connecting area (11) and a second connecting area (12), wherein the two connecting areas (11, 12) are arranged opposite to one another and are connected to one another by a web (13), wherein the two connecting areas (11, 12) each comprise at least one detent element (14) for connection to a side wall (41) of the drainage gutter (40), wherein the detent element (14) engages in a position-fixing manner for stabilization upon installation in the side wall (41), characterized in that the two connecting areas (11, 12) comprise further formfitting elements (15', 15", 15‴), by which the latch device (10) is connectable in a formfitting manner to the formfitting elements (15', 15", 15‴) of a further latch device having the same features of the latch device (10).

2. Latch device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the two connecting areas (11, 12) each comprise at least one holding element (16), which is formed on the outside in the longitudinal direction and is connected flexibly, in particular elastically, to the detent element (14), in particular wherein at least one material recess (17) is formed between the detent element (14) and the holding element (16), so that the detent element (14) is elastically pivotable during the installation.

3. Latch device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the detent element (14) has an angle, in particular an obtuse angle, in relation to the holding element (16), so that the detent element (14) extends obliquely outward from the holding element (16).

4. Latch device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detent element (14) comprises an entry surface (18), which is in contact with the side wall (41) during the installation, in order to elastically pre-tension the detent element (14), and / or the detent element (14) has at least one locking step (19), which interacts with the side wall (41) in the installed state and fixes the latch device (10).

5. Latch device as claimed in one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that the holding element (16) comprises at least one holding surface (21), which presses flatly against an outer surface (42) of the side wall (41) in the installed state.

6. Latch device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that the holding element (16) is formed T-shaped and comprises a transverse web (22) and a longitudinal web (23), wherein the holding surface (21) is formed on the inside on the transverse web (22) and in the installed state presses against the outer surface (42) of the side wall (41) on both sides of the longitudinal web (23), and / or the holding surface (21) has an angle α, in particular an acute angle α, of 3° in relation to a vertical plane of the latch device (10).

7. Latch device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 3 or 5 to 6, characterized in that the two connecting areas (11, 12) each comprise at least one contact element (24), which is arranged opposite to the holding element (16), wherein the holding element (16) and the contact element (24) are spaced apart from one another to accommodate the side wall (41).

8. Latch device as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that the holding element (16) and the contact element (24) are arranged in relation to one another such that in the installed state the side wall (41) is fixed in a shape-stabilizing manner, and / or the contact element (24) comprises at least one contact area (25), which in the installed state is in linear contact or small-area contact with an inner surface (43) of the side wall (41).

9. Latch device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one spacer element (26) is provided, by which a gap (27) is formed in at least some sections in the installed state between a gutter bottom (44) of the drainage gutter (40) and the two connecting areas (11, 12) and the web (13), in particular wherein the detent element (14) is connected to the spacer element (26), so that the detent element (14) pre-tensions the spacer element (26) against the gutter bottom (44) in the installed state in order to fix the latch device (10).

10. Latch device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the formfitting element (15') of the first connecting area (11) forms a receptacle element (28) and the formfitting elements (15", 15‴) of the second connecting area (12) form a fixing element (29) and a positioning element (31), wherein the latch device (10) is connectable to the further latch device by the receptacle element (28), the fixing element (29), and the positioning element (31).

11. Latch device as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that the receptacle element (28) forms a C-shaped extension (32), which extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web (13) and is formed such that a further positioning element of the further latch device can be accommodated in a formfitting manner, and / or the receptacle element (28) comprises at least one fixing surface (33), in order to interact with a further fixing element of the further latch device, wherein the fixing surface (33) is formed at an angle β, in particular an acute angle, in relation to the longitudinal direction of the web (13).

12. Latch device as claimed in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the fixing element (29) is formed hooked and extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web (13), wherein the fixing element (29) is designed to interact with a fixing surface of a receptacle element of the further latch device with pre-tension, and / or the positioning element (31) is formed plate-shaped and extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the web (13), wherein the positioning element (31) is designed to engage in a formfitting manner in a receptacle element of the further latch device.

13. Latch device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the web (13) comprises multiple passage openings (34), so that water can flow through in the installed state, and / or the two connecting areas (11, 12) and the web (13) are formed from plastic, and / or at least one recess (55) is formed between the web (13) and the respective connecting area (11, 12), in order to at least partially accommodate at least one drainage gutter (40).

14. Drainage gutter (40), in particular façade gutter, having two side walls (41) and at least one latch device (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the side walls (41) extend in the longitudinal direction and comprise at least two passage openings, which are arranged opposite to one another, wherein the latch device (10) is inserted into the passage openings, so that the detent elements (14) of the latch device (10) are engaged in the side walls (41).

15. Gutter system (70) having at least two drainage gutters (40) as claimed in claim 14 and at least two latch devices (10) at least as claimed in claim 10, wherein one latch device (10) is fixedly arranged in each case at an open end face (57) of the drainage gutters (40) and interacts by way of the fixing element (29) and the positioning element (31) with the receptacle element (28) of the respective latch device (10) arranged opposite such that the drainage gutters (40) are connected to one another.

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