Magnetic coupling element for an information carrier

Abstract

The invention comprises a magnetic coupling element (10) for the detachable coupling of an information carrier to a garment, which has an information carrier side (2g) for attaching an information carrier to the coupling element (10) and a coupling side (2k) facing away from it for the detachable coupling of the coupling element (10) to a garment by means of at least two cooperating magnetic elements (3, 4). The magnetic coupling element (10) has a mounting body (2) and a first of the magnetic elements (3). The mounting body (2) comprises the first magnetic element (3) or is connected or connectable to it and is shaped such that a magnetic adhesive surface (2m) for magnetic coupling with at least a second of the magnetic elements (4) is formed on the coupling side (2k), which is located at least partially within an interior area (2d).This interior area (2d) is bounded at at least two edges along the magnetic holding surface (2m) by a boundary wall (2a, 2b) projecting beyond the magnetic holding surface (2m). Furthermore, the invention comprises a magnetic holder (1) with such a magnetic coupling element (10), a corresponding information carrier holder, a mounting body (2), and a method for mounting such a coupling element (10).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a magnetic coupling element for an information carrier, a magnetic holder or an information carrier holder with such a coupling element, and a method for mounting such a coupling element. In particular, this information carrier is a name badge or the like, e.g., in the form of an information plate designed accordingly as a name badge or an interchangeable holder for a name badge.

[0002] Holders for name badges are well known and offered in large quantities. These are often simple lapel pins or so-called combination clips, as described, for example, in utility model DE 20 2005 015 325 U1.

[0003] For some time now, name badge holders based on a magnetic fastening principle have also been available. These consist of a magnetic element on the back of the badge and a magnetic element that can be detached from the holder and inserted into a garment, such as a shirt or jacket pocket, or behind a lapel, etc. The two magnetic elements are then brought into contact with each other, so that the fabric of the garment is clamped between them. The magnetic force between the magnetic elements holds the name badge in place.

[0004] Since the magnetic elements are only "connected" to each other via magnetic force and can shift or twist when external forces are applied, it can happen that a name tag held in this way twists or falls off if its wearer bumps into something or comes into physical contact with another person, which is disadvantageous.

[0005] To increase the magnetic holding force, the magnetic elements often comprise two magnets arranged side by side, sometimes with opposite polarities. However, such a solution sometimes increases the risk of the name badge falling off, as the (smaller) magnets shift even more easily relative to the other magnetic element when twisted, and the holding force decreases significantly if one of the magnets is no longer properly positioned.

[0006] DE 20 2009 005 948 U1 relates to a device for receiving a nameplate, consisting of a base body attachable to a carrier with a front-side receptacle for the nameplate and a rear-side fastening unit, wherein the fastening unit is formed from two permanent magnets arranged at a distance from each other on a separate holding body, a holding plate made of magnetizable material secured to the rear of the base body and from two recesses complementary to the permanent magnets.

[0007] DE 199 41 421 A1 relates to a name badge set consisting of a name badge and at least one fastening element. The name badge has a mounting receptacle on the back, and a plurality of fastening elements for clip, plug, and pin attachment are included, each of which is to be connected to the name badge via the mounting receptacle.

[0008] The invention is based on the objective of providing a magnetic coupling element or a magnetic holder for an information carrier, e.g. a name tag, which can be attached to a garment in a way that is as secure as possible against twisting.

[0009] This problem is solved by a mounting body according to claim 1, a coupling element according to claim 2, a magnet holder according to claim 10, an information carrier holder according to claim 14, and by a method for mounting such a coupling element according to claim 15.

[0010] A coupling element (also referred to herein as a "magnetic coupling element") according to the invention serves to attach, i.e., detachably couple, an information carrier to a garment, generally in conjunction with an additional magnetic element. The term "information carrier" refers to an element intended to be worn on a garment and to contain information about the wearer, such as their name, a specific function, area of ​​responsibility, foreign language skills, etc. This can be an information plate, e.g., an engraved or printed name tag, or an interchangeable holder for information tags, e.g., made of cardboard, or even electronic name tags.

[0011] The coupling element has an information carrier side for attaching an information carrier to the coupling element and a coupling side opposite this side for detachably coupling the coupling element to a garment using at least two interacting magnetic elements. The coupling element comprises a mounting body and one of the magnetic elements, which is hereinafter referred to as the "first magnetic element".

[0012] For ease of use, the holder body is preferably neither permanent nor ferromagnetic and is preferably made of plastic and / or cellulose materials. A preferred holder body can, for example, be manufactured cost-effectively from plastic using an injection molding process. The advantage of a non-magnetic holder body is that a second magnetic element (e.g., a holding magnet) automatically centers itself on the first magnetic element within it, so that, with a centrally positioned, appropriately sized first magnetic element, a gap remains on all sides for the fabric of the garment. Advantages of a plastic holder body thus include the improved orientation and locking of a holding magnet, cost-effective manufacturing, a wide range of design possibilities, and low weight.

[0013] In the preceding and following text, the term "magnetic" encompasses both the property of a magnet (permanent magnetism), meaning it can magnetically attract objects, e.g., made of iron, and the property of being passively attracted to a magnet (ferromagnetism). To distinguish between these two possibilities, the terms "permanent magnetism" or "magnet" are used for an element that generates a magnetic field in its environment, and "ferromagnetism" for an element that is not designed as a magnet, i.e., does not generate its own magnetic field by design, but can be attracted by a magnet.It should be noted, however, that ferromagnetic materials generally always exhibit magnetic field regions (Weiss domains) and are magnetizable, so they can indeed be magnetized by a magnetic field and, after some time, exhibit the properties of a (weak) magnet themselves. The phrase "not designed as a magnet" therefore does not mean that a ferromagnetic element must not have any permanent magnetic properties whatsoever, but only that the element's primary property is its ability to be attracted by a magnet, without necessarily possessing permanent magnetic properties. For the purposes of this invention, a "magnetic element" is meant to be an element that is magnetic, i.e., permanent magnetic and / or ferromagnetic.In the case where a permanent magnetic element and a ferromagnetic element are in magnetic contact, i.e., arranged in such a way that the magnetic field of the permanent magnetic element is further developed in the ferromagnetic element, and these elements thus functionally form a single magnet, whereby this combination is not intended to be separated (i.e., no garment can and / or should be caught between these two elements), this combination of the elements is regarded as a single magnetic element.

[0014] It should therefore be noted that neither the first magnetic element nor the second magnetic element need to be a single, continuous body (although this embodiment is preferred for the first magnetic element in the mounting body); it can also be formed from an assemblage of magnetic elements that are separate from each other or embedded in a (non-magnetic) matrix, e.g. a plastic body.

[0015] The first magnetic element should include all components which are intended to be attracted by a second magnetic element when the coupling element is attached to a garment, i.e., all magnetic elements located inside the mounting body in the intended assembled state of the magnetic coupling element.

[0016] The first magnetic element is preferably ferromagnetic (and therefore not permanent magnetic), and the mounting body is particularly preferably non-magnetic. The entire coupling element is therefore preferably not permanent magnetic.

[0017] According to the invention, the mounting body is connected or connectable to the first magnetic element and is shaped in such a way that a magnetic adhesive surface is formed on the coupling side for magnetic coupling with at least a second of the magnetic elements.

[0018] In a simple case, the "magnetic holding surface" can be the surface of the first magnetic element properly connected to the mounting body. However, it can also be the case that the first magnetic element is surrounded by a thin layer of material for protection against external influences. In this case, the surface of this layer is considered the magnetic holding surface. Therefore, the magnetic holding surface is the area on which a second magnetic element rests when properly attached.

[0019] The magnetic contact surface is located at least partially within an interior, preferably rectangular, area. This interior is bounded at at least two, preferably opposite, edges along the magnetic contact surface by boundary walls projecting beyond the magnetic contact surface, preferably at a distance from it. The boundary walls are preferably steep on the side facing the magnetic contact surface and, in particular, have sections that project vertically upwards towards the coupling side. This interior can be considered, with respect to these boundary walls, as a recess in the mounting body. The magnetic contact surface is thus located within the interior, which is bounded at at least two edges by the boundary walls projecting beyond the magnetic contact surface.These edges (and preferably also the boundary walls) preferably run parallel or at an angle to each other.

[0020] It should be noted, for the sake of completeness, that the mounting body can also encompass the first magnetic element, so that both elements are present as a single piece of metal or as a composite. In this variant, the mounting body can correspond to the first magnetic element and is then shaped such that a magnetic contact surface is formed on the coupling side for coupling with the second magnetic element. This magnetic contact surface is located at least partially within an interior area that is bounded on at least two edges along the magnetic contact surface by a boundary wall projecting beyond the magnetic contact surface. For example, the mounting body forming the first magnetic element can be shaped like a magnetic U-profile (where the legs of the U can each form a boundary wall and the web of the U forms the magnetic contact surface) or a "metal tray" or the like.

[0021] The boundary walls partially surround the inner area, preferably on at least two sides, and particularly preferably on three sides, and project upwards from the information carrier side, i.e., in the direction away from the information carrier side. Although the boundary walls can be curved, it is particularly preferred that they be straight, as this straight shape is especially advantageous for resistance to twisting. Although the boundary walls can be elastic, they are preferably made of plastic and are preferably rigid (in particular, the modulus of elasticity is greater than 1 GPa and preferably less than 20 GPa).

[0022] Preferably, the boundary walls, particularly following the edges, run parallel to each other or at an angle to one another. As mentioned, the boundary walls are preferably straight. In principle, however, they could also be curved or have straight and curved sections. In the case of curved boundary walls, they advantageously run such that they intersect or touch each other at an angle (at least in the hypothetical scenario of separate boundary walls), so that they do not lie on the same (and in particular, not on a concentric) arc. Thus, the boundary walls do not run on a circular path enclosing the magnetic surface, nor do they completely or partially enclose the magnetic surface on a circular path (at least not the side facing the magnetic surface).

[0023] This design of the mounting body enables very good resistance to twisting and sliding, depending on the design in two, three or four directions, during use, as the fabric is securely held between the second magnetic element and the rising walls in the interior.

[0024] Preferably, the mounting body is manufactured in one piece from plastic using an injection molding process.

[0025] It should be noted that a magnet, which serves as a counterpart when attaching the coupling element to a garment, is not necessarily a required part of the invention, since basically any magnet can be used initially. Furthermore, in the case of a permanent magnet version of the first magnetic element, a simple iron plate or a magnetic element of the garment itself could serve as the counterpart. The second magnetic element is therefore not considered part of the magnetic coupling element itself, but rather forms a magnetic holder according to the invention together with it.

[0026] That is, a magnetic holder according to the invention serves for the detachable coupling of an information carrier to a garment and comprises both a coupling element according to the invention and a second magnetic element that is intended to be separable from this magnetic coupling element. It is important that at least one of the magnetic elements is a permanent magnet, preferably at least the second magnetic element, which in this case could also be referred to as the "holding magnet". The other magnetic element can also be a permanent magnet, in which case the polarities of the magnets must be aligned such that the two magnetic elements attract each other. The coupling element ensures good resistance to twisting, since a garment clamped between the first and second magnetic elements is forced into folds by the boundary walls.As explained above, the boundary walls extend beyond the magnetic surface and are (thus) shaped in such a way that a trapped garment is forced into said folds by the boundary walls.

[0027] Preferably, the coupling element and the second magnetic element are shaped and dimensioned in relation to each other such that, when the second magnetic element adheres to the magnetic adhesive surface in the inner area of ​​the coupling element (without a trapped garment), a rotation of the second magnetic element relative to the coupling element about an axis perpendicular to the magnetic adhesive surface is at least limited, e.g. because the second magnetic element then abuts at least one of the boundary walls.

[0028] Particularly preferably, the second magnetic element is shaped relative to the coupling element or its interior such that it can be rotated (without a garment trapped) by less than 10°, preferably less than 5°, and most preferably less than 1°, while still having some play in its interior to provide sufficient space for the fabric of a trapped garment.

[0029] An information carrier holder according to the invention is suitable for attachment to a garment and comprises an information carrier, e.g., as mentioned, a replaceable holder or an information plate or an electronic tag, and a magnetic coupling element attached thereto according to the invention. Preferably, the information carrier holder additionally comprises a second magnetic element, thus comprising a magnetic holder according to the invention.

[0030] The two components "mounting body" and "first magnetic element" of the magnetic coupling element of the information carrier holder can, for example, be directly glued together and / or the first magnetic element is held in the mounting body in a form-fitting manner.

[0031] However, the components can also initially exist separately and only be joined together by attaching them to, for example, an information carrier, e.g. by gluing them on.

[0032] In a preferred, particularly simple method for mounting an information carrier holder according to the invention, which comprises at least one magnetic coupling element according to the invention, a first magnetic element is first attached to the back of an information carrier. This is preferably done by gluing, for example by applying adhesive or by using double-sided adhesive tape.

[0033] The magnetic element is then coupled to the mounting body, thereby forming the magnetic coupling element. As will be explained later, the coupling can preferably be achieved by inserting the magnetic element into a recess in the mounting body, and particularly preferably by snapping or clamping it into the recess.

[0034] The mounting body is therefore preferably not directly connected to the information carrier, but indirectly via the first magnetic element. This allows for very simple mounting of the information carrier to the coupling element.

[0035] Accordingly, a mounting body according to the invention for a magnetic coupling element should have a receiving area, preferably a suitable recess, for receiving the first magnetic element. This receiving area or recess is preferably arranged in the inner region, particularly preferably centrally in the inner region, as will be shown later.

[0036] Further particularly advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention result from the dependent claims and the following description, wherein the patent claims of a certain category may also be further developed according to the dependent claims of another category and features of different embodiments may be combined to form new embodiments.

[0037] As mentioned, an "information carrier" in this context is an element intended to be worn on a garment and to display information about the person wearing it. More generally, an information carrier can therefore be defined here as a two-dimensional element that carries (preferably visual) information or can be imprinted with information.

[0038] One option is an information plate, preferably made of metal, especially aluminum, or plastic. It can itself display the visual information (e.g., be engraved and / or printed), but theoretically it can also initially exist as a blank plate, at least if it is writable or can serve as a holder for attaching another information plate. Another option is an interchangeable holder. Such an interchangeable holder is preferably at least partially transparent and especially made of plastic, and designed to accommodate and visibly display an information plate or sign, for example, made of cardboard or paper. For instance, an interchangeable holder can include a clear sleeve into which an information sign can be inserted and / or clipped.Another possibility for an information carrier would be a small display on which information is presented electronically.

[0039] Although the information carrier can certainly be formed by means of a round or rounded surface or can have a general polyhedral shape, rectangular information carriers are preferred (possibly with rounded corners). Since the information carrier should be designed so that it can be worn (comfortably) on the body, it is preferred that its length or diameter be less than 20 cm, preferably less than 12 cm, and particularly less than 8 cm. Since it is often intended to carry visual information, e.g., writing that is to be legible to other people, it is preferred that its length or diameter be greater than 2 cm, and preferably greater than 4 cm. Preferably, its width is less than its length, with the length-to-width ratio preferably being greater than 1.1, and particularly greater than 1.7. However, the ratio is preferably less than 4, and particularly preferably less than 2.For example, in a rectangular shape, the ratio of length to width is 7.5 cm to 4.1 cm, or it corresponds to the Golden Ratio.

[0040] Ideally, the information carrier should be larger than the coupling element or its mounting body in order to conceal it effectively.

[0041] The mounting body of the coupling element can be designed in various ways. The important thing is a shape that largely prevents excessive twisting of the second magnetic element relative to the first rotating element.

[0042] Preferably, the boundary walls are at least 3 mm, and particularly preferably at least 5 mm, higher than the magnetic adhesive surface at their highest point. This ensures that the fabric can be effectively clamped, resulting in a particularly secure, twist-proof hold on the garment.

[0043] The magnetic adhesive surface is preferably surrounded by a peripheral area, preferably rectangular. This peripheral area is a region of the mounting body in which the boundary walls extend. The peripheral area thus surrounds the inner area, with the boundary walls in the peripheral area partially encircling this inner area, preferably on at least two sides.

[0044] In principle, the boundary walls could extend around the inner area on all four sides, meaning the mounting body forms a kind of "tub". Since it is advantageous for the magnetic force between the magnetic elements to be relatively high, it is preferable in this case for the second magnetic element to have a suitable engagement feature, for example, a widened surface on the side facing away from the first magnetic element, to form a sufficiently wide gripping edge in order to easily grasp the second magnetic element and pull it upwards away from the first magnetic element.

[0045] However, the boundary walls in the peripheral area are particularly likely to run around the interior on three sides.

[0046] Particularly advantageous is the design of the mounting body in the peripheral area (i.e., the area around the magnetic surface) where at least one extension edge is recessed relative to the boundary walls. This allows a second magnetic element, which adheres to the magnetic surface (i.e., couples directly to the coupling element without any intervening fabric when the information carrier holder is not in use), to be laterally extended from the magnetic surface between the boundary walls at the extension edge. This design in the peripheral area ensures excellent resistance to rotation and displacement, depending on the specific configuration, in two, three, or four directions, as the fabric is securely held between the second magnetic element and the raised walls in the peripheral area.On the other hand, despite the strong adhesive force between the magnetic elements, the second magnetic element can be easily detached when it is directly attached to the coupling element, as is usually the case before use. This strong adhesive force is desirable for secure attachment to clothing during use. Overall, this creates an information carrier holder, particularly for a name badge, that stays securely attached to clothing during use while remaining easy to handle.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the holder body is preferably designed at at least one ejection edge, particularly an end edge, in the peripheral region such that a second magnetic element is at least partially lifted away from the first magnetic element during ejection due to the shape of the holder body. For this purpose, the peripheral region at the ejection edge is particularly preferably designed to rise at an angle and / or in steps towards an outer edge of the holder body. The advantage of this lies in the facilitated separation of the first and second magnetic elements.

[0048] The peripheral area can preferably have a very low boundary wall at the ejection edge, which is preferably no higher than 2 mm and particularly preferably has a slope towards the magnetic contact surface. This wall can be designed as a slope entirely or have a sloping surface. This slope is shaped such that the second magnetic element is lifted when it is ejected. The holder body can therefore become thicker towards the edge at the ejection edge, with its surface rising towards the coupling side. This has the advantage that the second magnetic element is lifted slightly when ejected and thus separated a little from the first magnetic element.

[0049] In another preferred variant, the holder body (in the peripheral area) is lowered at the ejection edge down to or beyond the magnetic contact surface (i.e., below the plane of the magnetic contact surface). This has the advantage of providing a better grip for separation when slid out the second magnetic element.

[0050] Preferably, the mounting body (in the peripheral area) is flat at the ejection edge, and in particular runs flat to the edge corresponding to the bottom of the inner area of ​​the mounting body.

[0051] Alternatively, the mounting body can also be designed to slope downwards and / or be stepped towards the outer edge of the peripheral area or the entire mounting body. According to this preferred embodiment, the mounting body thus becomes thinner at the ejection edge towards the edge, with its surface sloping down towards the coupling side.

[0052] The different shapes could also be combined with each other, e.g. as an arrangement of ascending and descending steps or in such a way that part of the ejection edge is flat and another part is stepped.

[0053] In a preferred coupling element or its mounting body, the height of the boundary walls adjacent to the ejection edge (in the peripheral area) decreases from the side opposite the ejection edge towards the ejection edge, in particular continuously, wherein the boundary walls in question are preferably wedge-shaped towards the ejection edge.

[0054] A flat or sloping ejection side has the advantage of allowing easy separation of the magnetic elements. However, it lacks a special anti-displacement mechanism in the ejection direction to prevent accidental impacts against the information carrier. A slightly sloping ejection side offers the advantage of striking a good balance between easy separation of the magnetic elements and anti-displacement protection in the ejection direction to prevent accidental impacts against the information carrier.

[0055] In the case where the ejection edge is located on one of the end edges, which is a preferred positioning, and a boundary wall is located on the opposite end edge, which is a preferred shape of the support body, the height of at least one of the boundary walls of the longitudinal edges decreases from said opposite end edge (where it preferably terminates flush with the boundary wall there) to the ejection edge. It preferably terminates flush with the height of the ejection edge.

[0056] In a preferred coupling element, the mounting body has a recess in its interior. Preferably, this recess is dimensioned such that the first magnetic element can be fitted into it, particularly preferably at least partially in a form-fitting manner.

[0057] This recess can be formed from the coupling side of the mounting body or from the information carrier side. Particularly preferably, the recess is in the form of a through-hole, i.e., that the recess extends from the coupling side to the information carrier side of the mounting body.

[0058] If the recess is open towards the coupling side of the mounting body, e.g., designed as a through-hole, the first magnetic element, when installed correctly in the mounting body, forms essentially a flat surface with the floor of the inner area (i.e., the area around the recess). "Essentially" in this context means, in particular, that the surface of the first magnetic element projects less than 1 mm above the floor or is projected less than 1 mm above the floor. Preferably, however, the upper surface of the first magnetic element is flush with the floor of the inner area.

[0059] The mounting body may preferably have suitable retaining elements to hold the first magnetic element, e.g., in a form-fitting manner, in the recess of the mounting body.

[0060] Preferably, the mounting body has at least one projection (as a retaining element) in the side walls of the recess, e.g., a bead, an inner collar, an inwardly projecting projection, or a strip or retaining rail formed in the mounting body. The projection is preferably arranged or designed such that a first magnetic element fitted into the recess is held in the mounting body (e.g., positively) by means of the projection.

[0061] Particularly when the recess is open towards the coupling side of the mounting body, e.g., designed as a through-hole, mounting can also be achieved by attaching the first magnetic element to the back (which faces clothing during intended use) of an information carrier using a fastening means, preferably in the form of at least one adhesive element or an adhesive layer. If the mounting is then carried out in such a way that the projection in the recess lies between the magnetic element and the back of the information carrier, i.e., engages between the magnetic element and the information carrier, secure mounting in the recess is ensured. Double-sided adhesive tape is particularly preferred for this purpose, in order to ensure a certain distance between the magnetic element and the information carrier and thus facilitate easier engagement of the projection.

[0062] For this purpose, the projection is preferably located near or directly at the edge of the information carrier side of the mounting body on the inner walls of the recess and particularly preferably runs in a strip- or rail-like manner at least along a part of the information carrier-side edges of the recess.

[0063] A design of the mounting body in which the first magnetic element is held in a recess of the mounting body, e.g., by means of suitable retaining elements, and the mounting body is indirectly attached to the information carrier by the information carrier being attached to the first magnetic element, can simplify the assembly and disassembly of the mounting body on the information carrier, since direct attachment, e.g., gluing, of the mounting body to the information carrier is then no longer necessary. In particular, one of the components can be replaced relatively quickly if it is damaged. Such a design can therefore be considered an independent concept, regardless of whether the mounting body is equipped with boundary walls. However, particular advantages arise from combining these features.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, the coupling element can also have a fastening means, such as adhesive elements or an adhesive layer, for the information carrier on the mounting body on the information carrier side.

[0065] If there is only a direct connection, e.g., adhesive bonding, between the magnetic element and the back of the information carrier, the mounting body can be held to the information carrier solely by the aforementioned positive locking, without being directly attached to it.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the projection does not extend over the entire inner wall of the recess, with a particular area in the direction of the ejection edge or the area at the two end edges being free of a projection.

[0067] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the recess is rectangular and rib- or rail-like projections or retaining rails are located only on the inner walls of two opposite longer edges of the recess, wherein these projections extend only in a partial area of ​​the inner walls of the recess and an area, in particular the area in front of the ejection edge, is free of projections.

[0068] This free area is preferably dimensioned such that a first magnetic element, already attached to the back of the information carrier, can be inserted from the information carrier side behind the strip- or rail-like projections into the mounting body and positioned as intended in the recess. The projections thus act as retaining rails. The magnetic element can therefore be placed and "clamped" into the recess particularly easily.

[0069] In this case, it is particularly preferred that the inner wall of the recess is chamfered towards the information carrier side at the ejection edge on the information carrier side of the holder body.

[0070] Alternatively, the first magnetic element can also be held in the holder body by being inserted into the recess from the information carrier side and held towards the coupling side by a (then preferably very thin) wall or other retaining element, and secured against falling out of the recess towards the information carrier side by the holder body itself being attached to the back of the information carrier by means of at least one suitable fastening means, preferably in the form of an adhesive element or an adhesive layer.

[0071] In a preferred magnetic holder, at least one of the magnetic elements has at least two permanent magnets positioned side by side and spaced apart from each other. They are thus positioned such that, when the second magnetic element is positioned as intended, they adhere to different areas of the magnetic surface (if they are part of the second magnetic element) or to the second magnetic element itself (if they are part of the first magnetic element). This has the advantage that rotation is further hindered by the fact that two centers each generate a magnetic field. A two-sided connection of the magnets of the respective magnetic element by means of a metal plate on the top and bottom is also preferred in this respect. This strengthens the magnetic field, resulting in a greater holding force than with two individual small magnets.Alternatively or additionally, it is preferred that at least one permanent magnet is formed in a planar shape with a length-to-width ratio of at least 1.5:1, in particular with a ratio of at least 2:1, such that it is longer than it is wide. Preferred magnets are round or elliptical in shape. Preferably, a magnetic element comprises a plastic body into which at least one permanent magnet is embedded.

[0072] In a preferred magnetic holder, the magnetic elements are designed such that when the second magnetic element comes into contact with the magnetic adhesive surface (which can be, for example, direct contact of the magnetic elements with maximum surface overlap, i.e., full-surface coverage), a magnetic force greater than 4 N acts between the magnetic elements, in particular a force greater than 8 N, especially preferably greater than 10 N or even greater than 20 N, e.g., 25 N. This means that a corresponding force is required to separate the two magnetic elements, or to lift the second magnetic element from the magnetic adhesive surface, in the direction of the surface normal of the contact area, and has the advantage that the magnetic holder cannot suddenly detach when attached to a garment and will not fall off even in the event of a shock.This comparatively large force, however, means that the second magnetic element cannot be easily separated from the first magnetic element. Separation is facilitated by the ejection edge described above, according to the invention. However, the second magnetic element can have a handle, a tab, or an edge, e.g., in the form of a projection, which makes lifting easier.

[0073] The mounting body can be round or rounded on one side, but for torsional rigidity, it is preferred that it has at least one straight boundary wall. Preferably, the information carrier side of the mounting body has the shape of a polyhedron, and particularly preferably the shape of a rectangle (so). In a preferred coupling element, the mounting body thus has a rectangular base with two opposing longitudinal edges and two shorter end edges (in this embodiment, the longitudinal edges are always longer than the end edges). An ejection edge is preferably located at one end edge.

[0074] Preferably, the length ratio of the longitudinal edges to the end edges is greater than 1.5 to 1, and particularly greater than 2 to 1. The longitudinal edges are therefore preferably at least 1.5 times as long as the end edges, which promotes a secure, twist-proof hold. In absolute terms, the longitudinal edges are particularly preferably longer than 20 mm, and especially longer than 35 mm. However, for comfortable handling, the longitudinal edges should be less than 100 mm, and particularly less than 50 mm. These dimensions are advantageous for ease of use.

[0075] Preferably, the magnetic holder (in particular the coupling element) is designed such that there is a clear distance ("distance range") of at least 0.1 mm between the second magnetic element, which is arranged centrally on the magnetic adhesive surface, and the boundary walls of the holder body. More preferably, this distance is at least 1 mm, more preferably at least 2 mm, but more preferably at most 10 mm, more preferably at most 5 mm, or even at most 4 mm. This refers in particular to a distance in a plane parallel to the side of the information carrier. This clear distance is present at least when the magnetic holder is not attached to a garment, i.e., when the second magnetic element adheres directly to the magnetic adhesive surface. This has the advantage that, when the holder is attached to a garment, there is sufficient space between the boundary walls of the holder body and a second magnetic element for the fabric of the garment.

[0076] Accordingly, the dimension of the second magnetic element of a magnetic holder is dimensioned, in comparison to the corresponding dimension of the inner area of ​​the holding element, such that the second magnetic element is always 0.2 mm smaller, preferably at least 2 mm, particularly preferably at least 4 mm, but preferably at most 20 mm, particularly preferably at most 10 mm or even at most 8 mm. The distance between the corresponding boundary walls at the end edges with respect to the length of the second magnetic element, or at the longitudinal edges with respect to the width of the second magnetic element, therefore preferably corresponds to the values ​​mentioned above.

[0077] The boundary walls of the holder body are preferably high enough that they do not extend beyond the second magnetic element when positioned as intended on the magnetic surface (i.e., directly above the first magnetic element). This has the advantage that the magnetic holder is more comfortable to wear when attached to a garment.

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment, the underside (the side facing the first magnetic element) of the second magnetic element is (slightly) convex or its lower edges are rounded, wherein the interior of the holder body and, in particular, the first magnetic element preferably also have a correspondingly suitable negative shape. This has the advantage that, after the magnetic holder is detached from a garment, no creases remain due to the edges of the second magnetic element.

[0079] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures and exemplary embodiments. In the various figures, identical components are designated with identical reference numerals. The figures are generally not to scale and should be understood as schematic representations only. They show: Figure 1 a perspective exploded view of a magnet holder with a coupling element according to an embodiment of the invention, Figure 2 a longitudinal section through the coupling element according to the invention Figure 1 , Figure 3 a longitudinal section through another mounting body according to the invention, Figure 4 the mounting body according to Figure 3 under supervision Figure 5 a longitudinal section through another example of a mounting body according to the invention, Figure 6a longitudinal section through another example of a mounting body according to the invention with a step shape, Figure 7 the mounting body Figure 6 in perspective view, Figure 8 an example of an information carrier holder according to the invention in perspective view, Figure 9 an information carrier holder according to the invention on a garment in cross-section, Figure 10 an exploded view of a further embodiment of an information carrier holder according to the invention, Figure 11 an example of an assembly according to the invention of the information carrier holder according to the invention Figure 10 .

[0080] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a magnetic holder 1 with a coupling element 10 according to the invention in a perspective view. The magnetic holder 1 serves to hold an information carrier and together with it forms an information carrier holder 5 (in Figure 1 not shown, see here Figures 8 to 11 ).

[0081] The coupling element 10 of the magnetic holder 1 comprises a mounting body 2 and a first magnetic element 3. The coupling element 2 has an information carrier side 2g (in the Figure 1 (below, hence this direction will also be referred to as "below" in the following) on ​​which the information carrier rests when mounted. The in Figure 1 The side shown above is the coupling side 2k, where coupling with a second magnetic element 4 can take place.

[0082] On this coupling side 2k, the mounting body 2 has boundary walls 2a, 2b in a peripheral area 2p along its longitudinal edges and one end edge, which define an inner area 2d on three edges. A recess 2e (here an opening 2e) for receiving the first magnetic element 3 is located centrally in the inner area 2d. To prevent the first magnetic element 3 from falling downwards towards the information carrier side 2g, a circumferential projection 2f in the form of a cantilever is formed on the lower part of the inner surface or inner wall of the recess. When the first magnetic element 3 is inserted into the recess 2e as intended, the boundary walls 2a, 2b project beyond the first magnetic element 3 and the inner area 2d.

[0083] Such a mounting body 2 can be manufactured cost-effectively from plastic using an injection molding process.

[0084] The magnetic holder 1 is completed by the second magnetic element 4, which is cuboid in shape and comprises two laterally spaced permanent magnets 4a arranged in a plastic body 4c. The second magnetic element 4 has an overhang 4b on its upper side, serving as a grip edge 4b, which facilitates the separation of the second magnetic element 4 from the first magnetic element 3.

[0085] The second magnetic element 4 is brought into magnetic contact with the first magnetic element 3 at the coupling side 2k, as intended. For storage of the information carrier holder 5 when it is not in use, the second magnetic element 4 is typically magnetically coupled directly to the coupling element 10 or the first magnetic element 3.

[0086] In the example shown here, the surface of the first magnetic element 3 represents the magnetic contact surface 2m, to which the second magnetic element 4 couples. It is conceivable that the first magnetic element 3 is arranged within a compartment of the mounting body 2 (e.g., in a non-continuous recess extending from the information carrier side into the mounting body), in which case a surface of the mounting body 2 at the coupling side would represent the magnetic contact surface 2m.

[0087] When the second magnetic element 4 is connected to the first magnetic element 3 as intended, a space 2q is created around the second magnetic element 4 until the peripheral area 2p begins, resulting in a clear gap between the second magnetic element 4 and the boundary walls 2a, 2b. The fact that the mounting body 2 is non-magnetic offers the particular advantage that the second magnetic element 4 automatically centers itself on the first magnetic element 3, leaving a gap on all sides for the fabric of a garment. This ensures the magnet always lies flat.

[0088] Figure 2 The coupling element 10 shows according to Figure 1In longitudinal section, it is clearly visible that the first magnetic element 3 fits into the recess 2e in the inner area 2d of the mounting body (and, as indicated by the arrows, is correctly positioned there). The first magnetic element 3 cannot fall downwards through the recess 2e because it is held by the projections 2f (acting as retaining elements 2f), which in this example extend around the inner wall of the recess 2e. When inserted, the upper surface of the first magnetic element 3 is flush with the bottom of the inner area 2d, which is not always necessary, but is advantageous for connecting it to another magnetic element.

[0089] As can be clearly seen here, the boundary walls 2b arranged in the peripheral area 2p at the longitudinal edges and the one boundary wall 2a at one of the end edges extend significantly beyond the surface of the first magnetic element 3 (which is also the magnetic holding surface 2m here), resulting in a good and twist-proof hold on a garment (see B. Figure 9 ).

[0090] According to the invention, the front edge opposite the boundary wall 2a in the peripheral area 2p is designed as an ejection edge 2c to accommodate a second magnetic element 4 (see. Figure 1 ), which adheres directly to the first magnetic element 3, to be pushed laterally towards the ejection edge 2c between the boundary walls 2b and thus to be detached relatively easily from the coupling element 10.

[0091] At this ejection edge 2c, a stepped shape can be seen in this example, which has the shape of a slope 2h towards the inside. This step serves to accommodate a second magnetic element 4 (see...). Figure 1 ), which is located on the first magnetic element 3 and is moved towards the ejection edge 2c to release it, lifting it slightly from the first magnetic element 3 during this movement. The inclined surface 2h significantly facilitates this lifting. It also serves as a slight locking mechanism to prevent movement towards the open side.

[0092] Figure 3 Figure 1 shows an example of another preferred mounting body 2 in longitudinal section. It is similar to the mounting body 2 shown in Figure 2. Figure 2with the difference that the projections 2f only extend in the form of lateral retaining rails along a portion of the opposing longitudinal side walls of the recess 2e. Here, they extend only approximately 2 / 3 of the length of the recess 2e, starting from the end face opposite the ejection edge 2c. On the end face of the recess 2e facing the ejection edge 2c, the information carrier side 2g of the holder body 2 has a chamfer 2i at its bottom. This design allows a flat magnetic element 3 to be inserted from below into the recess 2e of the holder body 2 (see later for further details). Figure 10 ) and can be pushed out again if necessary.

[0093] Figure 4 shows the mounting body 2 according to Figure 3 In top view. The projections 2f are clearly visible, which only run along part of the inner walls in the recess 2e.

[0094] It should be noted at this point that the orientation of the lateral retaining rails can be independent of the function of the ejection edge, i.e. they could also extend from the end face of the recess facing the ejection edge, and the information carrier side of the retaining body has a chamfer at the bottom on the opposite end face of the recess.

[0095] Figure 5 The figure shows another example of a mounting body according to the invention in longitudinal section. It resembles the mounting body from Figure 2 with the difference that it has no step on its projecting edge 2c, but is flat. In addition, projections 2f only run along the longitudinal edges and not along the end edges.

[0096] Figure 6 Figure 1 shows another example of a mounting body 2 according to the invention with a stepped shape in longitudinal section. It resembles the mounting body from Figure 2. Figure 5with the difference that its ejection edge 2c is not flat, but has a stepped shape with steps descending towards the outside.

[0097] Figure 7 The example shows after Figure 6 In perspective view. Here it is clearly visible that in the peripheral area 2p, the two lateral boundary walls 2b slope downwards from the end-face boundary wall 2a, with which they are flush, down to the level of the lower step at the projection edge 2c. The projection 2f in the recess 2e does not run along the end faces in this example, but only along the longitudinal edges, as in the Figures 5 and 6 is hinted at.

[0098] Figure 8Figure 1 shows an example of an information carrier holder 5 according to the invention in a perspective view. In this example, the information carrier holder 5 comprises an information plate 11 as the information carrier 11, which is equipped with a magnetic holder 1 according to the invention. The magnetic holder 1 comprises a mounting body 2 (e.g., as shown in the preceding figures), a first magnetic element 3 (not visible here, as it lies beneath the second magnetic element 4), and a second magnetic element 4. As previously explained in detail with reference to the examples, the mounting body 2 is designed such that the second magnetic element 4 is surrounded by a peripheral area 2p with boundary walls 2a, 2b and can be easily pushed out between the boundary walls 2a, 2b towards an ejection edge 2c (see arrow).Between the second magnetic element 4 and the peripheral area 2p, there is a distance area 2q when the second magnetic element 4 is arranged as intended (centrally).

[0099] Figure 9Figure 1 schematically shows a cross-section of such an information carrier holder 5 according to the invention, as it is attached to a garment 6. This view shows that the coupling element 10 is attached to the information plate 11 by means of an adhesive element 7 (preferably double-sided adhesive tape), specifically, in this particular example, only its first magnetic element 3 and not the holder body 2. Furthermore, two projections 2f are visible, which hold the adhered first magnetic element 3 in the holder body 2 by means of an undercut. The illustration also clearly shows how the fabric of the garment 6 is clamped between the coupling element 10 and the second magnetic element 4, and how the boundary walls 2b effectively serve as an anti-rotation device.

[0100] Figure 10Figure 1 shows an exploded view of another example of an information carrier holder 5 according to the invention. The information carrier holder 5 comprises an additional second magnetic element 4, so that it is equipped with a magnetic holder 1 according to the invention. Here, the information carrier 12 is designed as a typical interchangeable holder 12, into which, for example, an information sign made of cardboard or paper can be inserted laterally and clamped in place. The interchangeable holder consists of a transparent plastic blank that has been folded several times to form a clear sleeve of a suitable size. However, such interchangeable holders 12 are well known.

[0101] Figure 11 shows an example of the assembly of an information carrier holder 5 according to the invention, using the information carrier holder 5 as an example. Figure 10. On the left of the figure, the interchangeable holder 12 can be seen as an information carrier 12 (it could also be an information plate 11), on the back of which the first magnetic element 3 is already glued (e.g. by means of an adhesive element 7 as in Figure 9 ). A mounting body 2, which is designed as e.g. in the Figures 3 and 4 As can be seen, the first magnetic element 3 is now pushed in the direction of the arrow in the left-hand illustration, so that the magnetic element 3 is guided into the recess 2e of the mounting body 2, and the retaining rails 2e on the side walls of the recess 2e slide between the magnetic element 3 and the back of the information carrier 12 along the longitudinal sides of the magnetic element 3. When the magnetic element 3 is fully inserted into the recess 2e, it snaps completely into the recess 2e and is clamped therein. In this position, the magnetic element 3 is operated as shown in Figure 9The component is positively locked in the mounting body 2. This results in a fully assembled information carrier holder 5 with a magnetic coupling element 10, as shown on the right. Figure 11 as can be seen. The assembly as in Figure 10 As shown, this variant also remains possible.

[0102] Finally, it should be noted once again that the devices described in detail above are merely exemplary embodiments which can be modified in various ways by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the design of the recess and the projection is independent of the specific design of the peripheral area and the boundary walls, so that the various versions can easily occur in different combinations than those shown in the figures or described above. Likewise, each of the exemplary embodiments can optionally be provided with an information plate, a holder for interchangeable name badges or the like, or another information carrier. Furthermore, the use of the indefinite articles "a" or "an" does not preclude the possibility that the features in question may be present multiple times. Reference symbol list

[0103] 1 Magnetic holder 2 Holder body 2a Limiting wall 2b Limiting wall 2c Ejection edge 2d Interior 2e Recess / Opening 2f Retaining element / Projection / Retaining strip 2g Information carrier side 2h Slope 2i Bevel 2k Coupling side 2m Magnetic adhesive surface 2p Peripheral area 2q Spacing area 3 First magnetic element 4 Second magnetic element 4a Permanent magnet 4b Overhang / Grip edge 4c Plastic body 5 Information carrier holder 6 Garment 7 Fastener, adhesive element 10 Coupling element 11 Information carrier / Information plate 12 Information carrier / Interchangeable holder

Claims

1. Holder body (2) for a coupling element (10) for releasably coupling an information carrier (11, 12) to an item of clothing, wherein the holder body (2) has a receiving area (2e), preferably a recess (2e), for receiving a first magnetic element (3), wherein the holder body (2) comprises the first magnetic element (3) or is connected or connectable to the first magnetic element (3) and is shaped such that on the coupling side (2k) there is formed a magnetic adherence surface (2m) for magnetic coupling with at least a second of the magnetic elements (4), which is located at least partially within an interior area (2d), which interior area (2d) is bounded at least at two edges along the magnetic adherence surface (2m) by a boundary wall (2a, 2b) protruding beyond the magnetic adherence surface (2m), characterized in that the magnetic adherence surface (2m) is surrounded by a peripheral area (2p) in which the boundary walls (2a, 2b) extend, and wherein the holder body (2) is formed in the peripheral area at at least one push-out edge (2c) in such a way relative to the boundary walls (2a, 2b) such that a second magnetic element (4), which adheres to the magnetic adherence surface (2m), can be pushed out laterally at the push-out edge (2c) from the magnetic adherence surface (2m) between the boundary walls (2b).

2. Coupling element (10) for releasably coupling an information carrier (11, 12) to clothing, which has an information carrier side (2g) for attaching an information carrier (11, 12) to the coupling element (10) and a coupling side (2k) facing away from it (2k) for releasably coupling the coupling element (10) to clothing (6) by means of at least two cooperating magnetic elements (3, 4), wherein the coupling element (10) has a holder body (2) according to claim 1 and the first of the magnetic elements (3).

3. Coupling element according to claim 2, wherein the holder body (2) is designed at the push-out edge (2c) such that the second magnetic element (4) is at least partially lifted off the first magnetic element (3) during ejection due to the shape of the holder body (2), preferably wherein the peripheral area (2p) at the push-out edge (2c) is designed to rise inclined and / or in steps toward an outer edge of the holder body (2).

4. Coupling element according to claim 2, wherein the holder body (2) is lowered at the push-out edge (2c) to the magnetic adhesion surface or beyond, preferably wherein the holder body (2) is flat at the push-out edge (2c) or is designed to rise inclined and / or in steps toward an outer edge of the holder body (2).

5. Coupling element according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the height of the boundary walls (2b) adjacent to the push-out edge (2c) decreases, in particular continuously, from a side opposite the push-out edge (2c) towards the push-out edge (2c), wherein the respective boundary walls (2b) are tapered, preferably wedge-shaped, towards the push-out edge (2c).

6. Coupling element, in particular according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the holder body (2) has a recess (2e), preferably an aperture (2e), for receiving the first magnetic element (3) and preferably has a holding element (2f), in particular a protrusion (2f), in the recess (2e), which is arranged and / or designed in such a way that a first magnetic element (3) fitted into the recess (2e) is held in the holder body (2) in a form-fitting manner by means of the protrusion (2f), wherein the coupling element (10) preferably has a fastening means (7) on the information carrier side (2g), in particular on the first magnetic element (3), preferably in the form of an adhesive element (7).

7. Coupling element according to claim 6, wherein the protrusion (2f) does not extend over the entire recess (2e) and, in particular, an area in front of an edge, preferably the push-out edge (2c), is free of a protrusion (2f), wherein, preferably at the relevant edge, preferably the push-out edge (2c), on the information carrier side (2g), the inner wall of the recess (2e) is chamfered towards the information carrier side (2g).

8. Coupling element according to one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the holder body (2) has a rectangular base with two opposite longitudinal edges and two shorter end edges, wherein the push-out edge (2c) is preferably located at an end edge, preferably wherein the length ratio of the longitudinal edges to the end edges is greater than 1.5 to 1, and the longitudinal edges are particularly preferably longer than 20 mm.

9. Magnetic holder (1) for detachably coupling an information carrier (11, 12), comprising a coupling element (10) according to one of claims 2 to 8 and a second magnetic element (4) that can be separated from this coupling element (10) as intended, wherein at least one of the magnetic elements (3, 4) is permanently magnetic, preferably at least the second magnetic element (4).

10. Magnetic holder according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the magnetic elements (3, 4) has at least two permanent magnets which are spaced apart from each other and / or has at least one permanent magnet which is flat, with a ratio of the length to the width of the surface of at least 1.5 to 1.

11. Magnetic holder according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the magnetic elements (3, 4) are designed such that when the second magnetic element (4) comes into contact with the magnetic adherence surface (2m), a magnetic force greater than 4 N acts.

12. Magnetic holder according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the coupling element is designed such that there is a clearance of at least 0.1 mm between the second magnetic element (4) arranged on the magnetic adherence surface (2m) as intended and the boundary walls (2a, 2b) of the holder body (2), and wherein the boundary walls (2a, 2b) of the holder body (2) preferably do not protrude beyond the second magnetic element (4) when it is positioned as intended on the magnetic adherence surface (2m).

13. Information carrier holder (5) for attachment to clothing (6), comprising: - an information carrier (11, 12), - a coupling element (10) attached thereto according to one of claims 2 to 8, in particular a magnetic holder (1) attached thereto according to one of claims 9 to 12.

14. Method for mounting an information carrier holder (5) according to claim 13, comprising a coupling element (10) according to one of claims 2 to 8, comprising the following steps - Fastening, preferably gluing, a magnetic element (3) to the back of an information carrier (11, 12), - Connecting the magnetic element (3) to the holder body (2), preferably by inserting it into a recess (2e) in the holder body (2), and particularly preferred by snapping or clamping the magnetic element (3) into the recess (2e).

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