Connector and spacer frame

Abstract

In a connector (1), it is therefore proposed to arrange a deformation element (14, 15, 16) held on both sides such that the width (8) of the connector (1) can be varied by deformation of at least one of the deformation elements (14, 15, 16). (cf. Fig. 1)

Description

[0001] The invention relates to the use of a connector for a spacer frame, wherein the spacer frame has a hollow profile into which the connector can be plugged.

[0002] Such spacer frames are known in window and door construction and are used to define the distance between two adjacent panes of a window pane arrangement.

[0003] This is particularly important for insulating glass, where the space between the panes is filled with noble gas, for example.

[0004] It has become common practice to manufacture such spacer frames in different widths because, for example, due to different pane thicknesses, different distances between adjacent panes must be set.

[0005] During the production of a spacer frame, individual sections of the spacer frame from which this spacer frame is composed are connected with connectors that fix the free ends of the sections, which form the separation points between the sections, to each other.

[0006] For example, straight connectors that create a connection between two free ends in a straight section of the spacer frame and corner connectors that create such a connection at a corner of the spacer frame are known.

[0007] From DE 10 2009 003869 A1, a longitudinal connector or U-shaped connector for spacer hollow profiles for insulating glass panes is known, having a base part and, in the case of the U-shaped connector, two legs arranged in the region of the longitudinal side edges, wherein the base part has one or more resilient elements which can act in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction of the base part and whose envelope curve together forms the base part.

[0008] A similar connector is known from WO 2012 / 098008 A1.

[0009] In order to be able to use the spacer frames of different widths, connecting elements of different widths are used.

[0010] This is because the connecting element must seal the profile of the spacer frame at the free ends to prevent granules filled into the spacer frame from escaping.

[0011] The invention aims to further automate the production of the spacer frame.

[0012] To achieve the stated object, the features of claim 1 are provided according to the invention. In particular, when used as initially mentioned, the invention proposes that the connector has at least two support elements which are connected to one another via at least one deformation element, in particular a spring element.

[0013] With such a deformation element, the width of the connector can be easily changed by deforming at least one deformation element. The need to keep different connectors with different widths on hand is thus eliminated or at least reduced, for example, if different connectors can cover overlapping or adjacent ranges of adjustable widths. This can help reduce the number of magazines that store the different connectors.

[0014] This can simplify automation.

[0015] The deformation can, for example, be completely reversible, partially reversible or irreversible.

[0016] This can be achieved, for example, by an elastic deformation element, a partially elastic deformation element, or a plastically deformable deformation element. Plastic deformation has the advantage that any hindrance to the insertion process caused by springback can be avoided. Partially elastic deformation has the advantage that a residual spring effect can be used to achieve the tightest possible closure of the hollow profile. (Fully) elastic deformation has the advantage that the full compression range remains available even after the initial deformation. Plastic and partially elastic deformations can be achieved, for example, with metallic materials, and (fully) elastic deformations can be achieved, for example, with plastic materials or suitable metallic materials.

[0017] The support element(s) can be configured to provide axial and / or lateral fixation—for example, with respect to a plug-in direction—of the ends of the spacer frame to be connected at a separation point. For this purpose, it is advantageous if each support element extends on both sides of the separation point in the use position and can thus protrude into both free ends of the spacer frame simultaneously.

[0018] The carrier element(s) can alternatively or additionally be configured to seal a gap between the connector and the hollow profile, for example, by appropriately designing a side contour of the carrier element(s). This can prevent granulate from escaping from the interior of the hollow profile, for example, into the space between the panes.

[0019] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one support element is designed to be stiffer than the at least one deformation element. This makes it possible to achieve a support element that is sufficiently stable to fix the free ends of the spacer frame, while the at least one deformation element can provide elasticity that allows the width of the connector to be varied.

[0020] This can also apply to all support elements of the connector.

[0021] In this description, the terms "width" and "length" can, for example, refer to an insertion direction. The width then defines the spacing between the panes of the window pane arrangement, while the length defines an extension in the insertion direction. A dimension transverse to the width and length can, for example, be referred to as "height."

[0022] In this case, it can be provided, for example, that a characteristic cross-section of the at least one support element has an area more than twice as large as a characteristic cross-section of the at least one deformation element.

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one deformation element has a characteristic cross-section whose larger dimension is oriented transversely to an insertion direction. Thus, bending or deformation in the insertion direction can be achieved, so that a dimension transverse to this—the width—can be easily changed.

[0024] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one deformation element has a preferred bending direction that is aligned longitudinally with an insertion direction. Thus, deformation transverse to the insertion direction, preferably in the direction of a distance between the panes of a window pane arrangement, is easily achievable. This enables a simple change in the width of the connector. By appropriately configuring the deformation element, a compression direction can be achieved that is transverse to the bending direction and transverse to the insertion direction.

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one support element is shaped to correspond to the hollow profile. This can apply to both or all support elements. The corresponding shape, which can be recognized, for example, by the support element(s) lying flat against the hollow profile, has the advantage that a defined alignment of the free ends of the spacer frame at the separation point is easily achievable. A seal on the hollow profile can also be achieved, which can prevent or at least impede the escape of granulate from the interior of the hollow profile.

[0026] Preferably, the shape adjustment extends at least over the sides of the connector that define a height. This results in a uniform outer contour of the connector on these sides, regardless of the respective set width. It is particularly advantageous if the shape adjustment extends into the sides of the connector that define a width.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the at least one connecting element is shaped to correspond to the hollow profile. Here, too, at least one seal to the hollow profile can be achieved.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, the connector can be a corner connector. Thus, the invention can be used for spacer frames composed of sections that are connected at the corners of the spacer frame.

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention, the connector can be a straight connector. Thus, the invention can be used for spacer frames composed of sections that are connected at the straight side of the spacer frame, for example, for spacer frames that are bent when filled.

[0030] In one embodiment of the invention, the connector can be manufactured as an injection-molded part. This enables cost-effective production. Preferably, a connector shape is selected that allows demolding from a two-shell injection mold. A mold parting line can be selected such that it divides a connector height or a connector width. This can be selected, for example, depending on the orientation of the deformation element.

[0031] For example, the terms "outside" and "inside" can refer to a relative position or orientation with respect to the space between the panes.

[0032] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one deformation element closes a connecting channel for granules in the compressed state and / or opens it in the relaxed state. Thus, for example, a flow of granules can be controlled, for example, depending on the width of the spacer frame.

[0033] In one embodiment of the invention, the connector can be provided to completely fill the hollow profile at least in one longitudinal section. This prevents granulate from flowing across the separation point from one section of the spacer frame into the adjacent section.

[0034] This can be implemented, for example, on the at least one deformation element. Thus, an extension of the spring element between two support elements or between a support element and a connecting element can be used to form a seal for the hollow profile.

[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a securing means is formed on the plug connector, in particular on the at least one support element and / or the at least one connecting element, which fixes the or a set width of the plug connector in the hollow profile. This can prevent the plugged-in plug connector from being inadvertently compressed, for example due to a (lateral) relative movement of the sections of the spacer frame that are connected by the plug connector. This securing means can be formed, for example, by a guide rib, a guide groove, or an undercut, which interacts with a counter-securing means in the form of a corresponding cross-sectional change, for example a guide bead, a guide rib, or a profile taper.

[0036] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one deformation element changes, in particular reduces, its height dimension upon compression. This makes it possible, for example, for the connector to be easily inserted into the hollow profile in the compressed state, while it secures itself in the relaxed state.

[0037] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one deformation element supports the at least two support elements in both longitudinal halves or legs. This advantageously allows a holding force to be applied to both ends of the spacer frame and / or both sides of the separation point.

[0038] In one embodiment of the invention, a lamellar structure can be formed on the connector, particularly on an outer side, whose preferred bending direction is oriented transversely to a compression direction of the deformation element. This makes it possible to bridge manufacturing tolerances. It can also be provided that the lamellar structure can provide a pull-out protection.

[0039] The outer side can, for example, be characterized as the side facing away from the space between the panes in the position of use.

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, the at least one deformation element can be V-, Z-, zigzag-, or O-shaped. This allows for connectors that are easy to manufacture, particularly using injection molding technology.

[0041] In one embodiment of the invention, the at least one deformation element can be designed as an insertion aid. This allows for automatic compression during insertion.

[0042] It is particularly advantageous if the at least one deformation element forms a frame with a continuously variable width of the connector in the insertion direction. This avoids insurmountable obstacles during insertion. Such obstacles can arise, for example, if the width of the connector suddenly widens in the insertion direction, for example, due to a bent-back contour.

[0043] One example is a convex frame, which can be described, for example, by a structure with corners or bends, where at all corners or bends, an interior angle is smaller than an exterior angle, or a center of curvature lies on an inner side of the frame. This prevents a corner or bend from catching on the outer edge of the connector during insertion, which would create a virtually insurmountable obstacle.

[0044] In one embodiment of the invention, at least two similar deformation elements can be formed. This is advantageous because the contact pressure exerted by the deformation elements can be designed symmetrically. This makes it easy to ensure that the at least one support element can conform to the hollow profile at both ends of the separation point.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one deformation element allows a compression of the width of the plug connector by at least 30%. Advantage: wide range of adjustment

[0046] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one deformation element (as a spring element) has a linear spring characteristic. Thus, a constant spring force can be provided regardless of the set width of the connector.

[0047] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one deformation element (as a spring element) has a progressive spring characteristic. Thus, a spring force that varies with the set width of the connector can be provided.

[0048] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a maximum outer contour is matched to the hollow profile. Thus, the free ends of the spacer frame can be pushed together until they touch each other. This allows for welding or a material-to-material connection of the free ends, for example, at a miter.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, a stop for the hollow profile can be provided. This allows for a defined insertion of the hollow profile.

[0050] The stop can also be designed to extend an outer contour of the spacer frame, particularly in a contact area with the panes. This allows the connector to seal against the panes of the window pane assembly.

[0051] The invention finds a preferred application in a spacer frame for a window pane arrangement, wherein the connector connects the spacer frame at a separation point.

[0052] In this case, it can be provided that the hollow profile and a cross-sectional contour of the connector form a positive connection, by which the connector is fixed in its width in the inserted position. For example, the positive connection can be formed by at least one securing means, in particular as described above, on the connector and a counter-securing means, in particular as described above, on the hollow profile. This positive connection can act, for example, laterally, i.e., in the direction of the width of the connector, and prevent compression.

[0053] In an advantageous embodiment, the spacer frame can be welded to the connector, preferably by ultrasonic welding. This allows the connector to be fully inserted into the spacer frame. The spacer frame can be tightly connected to itself at the separation point, which the connector bridges, so that, on the one hand, no granulate can escape and, on the other hand, a uniform external appearance is achieved.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment, the connector can be provided to continue an outer contour of the spacer frame. This allows a consistent, seamless outer contour of the fully assembled spacer frame to be achieved even if the free ends of the connected sections of the spacer frame do not directly touch at the separation point.

[0055] The invention will now be described with reference to exemplary embodiments, but is not limited to these exemplary embodiments. Further exemplary embodiments arise from combining the features of individual or multiple claims with one another and / or with individual or multiple features of the exemplary embodiments.

[0056] It shows: Figure 1 shows a connector which can be used according to the invention with relaxed deformation elements in a view of the rear side, Figure 2 shows the connector from Figure 1 with compressed deformation elements, Figure 3 a spacer frame with the connector according to Figure 1 in use, Figure 4the connector according to Figure 1 in use with a counterpart Figure 3narrower spacer frame, Figure 5 shows a further connector usable according to the invention in use, wherein a stop for the hollow profile of the spacer frame is adapted on the outside to an outer contour of the spacer frame, Figure 6 shows a further connector usable according to the invention with a lamellar structure attached to the rear, Figure 7 shows a further connector usable according to the invention with an O-shaped deformation element, Figure 8 shows a further connector usable according to the invention with a closable connecting channel, Figure 9 shows a further connector usable according to the invention with an O-shaped deformation element in a straight design, Figure 10 shows a further connector usable according to the invention with several identical deformation elements, Figure 11 shows a further connector usable according to the invention with a height-adjustable deformation element and a stop,Figure 12 shows a part of a spacer frame with a connector which can be used according to the invention, Figure 13 shows a further connector which can be used according to the invention, Figure 14 shows a section of a spacer frame with a connector according to , Figure 13 , Figure 15 shows a further connector which can be used according to the invention with securing means for fixing its width, Figure 16 shows a further connector which can be used according to the invention with alternative securing means for fixing its width, Figure 17 shows a further connector which can be used according to the invention with an alternative insertion aid, Figure 18 shows a further connector which can be used according to the invention with a further deformation element as a spring element with a regressive spring characteristic in an oblique view of an outer side and Figure 19 shows the connector according to Figure 18 in a central external view of the thighs.

[0057] The Figures 1-4show a first embodiment of the use according to the invention and are described together below.

[0058] A connector designated as a whole by 1 is intended for mounting a spacer frame designated as a whole by 2.

[0059] The spacer frame 2 defines, in a manner known per se, a space between the panes 3, wherein limiting panes (not further shown) of a window pane arrangement rest against the narrow sides 4 of the spacer frame 2.

[0060] The spacer frame 2 has a hollow profile 5 in a manner known per se.

[0061] The connector 1 has a first leg 6 and a second leg 7, each having a width 8, a length 9 and a height 10.

[0062] The width 8 is determined by a distance 11 between the discs.

[0063] The connector 1 has a first carrier element 12 and a second carrier element 13 in each leg 6, 7.

[0064] These support elements 12, 13 are designed to be sufficiently stable to fulfil the function of the connector.

[0065] At least one deformation element 14, 15, 16 is arranged between the support elements 12, 13. In the exemplary embodiment, the deformation elements 14, 15, 16 are elastically deformable and thus form spring elements.

[0066] The deformation elements 14, 15, 16 are formed laterally on the first support element 12 and connected thereto in one piece.

[0067] At the ends 17 facing away from the first support element 12, the deformation elements 14, 15 are connected to a connecting element 18, which in the exemplary embodiment is formed by the second support element 13.

[0068] The legs 6, 7 each define an insertion direction 19. To connect sections 20 of the spacer frame 2, a leg 6, 7 is inserted in the insertion direction 19 into a free end 21 of the section 20. This bridges a separation point 22 in the hollow profile 5 of the spacer frame 2.

[0069] The hollow profile 5 surrounds an interior space 23 into which granulate can be filled - for example, in order to keep the space between the panes 3 dry.

[0070] The support elements 12, 13 have a side contour 24 to which the hollow profile 5 is adapted such that a remaining gap 25 between the support elements 12, 13 and the hollow profile 5 is tightly closed at least for the granulate inserted into the interior 23.

[0071] The first deformation elements 14 and the second deformation elements 15 and also the further deformation elements 16 are less rigid than each of the support elements 12, 13. The support elements 12, 13 can therefore be moved towards each other comparatively easily by compressing the deformation elements 14, 15, 16.

[0072] Figure 2 shows a opposite Figure 1 compressed position.

[0073] This compression makes it possible to change the width 8 of the connector 1 in order to adapt the connector 1 to different hollow profiles 5 with different distances 11.

[0074] In the exemplary embodiment, the different stiffness is achieved in that the deformation elements 14, 15, 16 each have the same height 10 as the support elements 12, 13, but that the cross section of the deformation elements 14, 15, 16 fills a fraction of the cross-sectional area of ​​the support elements 12, 13.

[0075] The deformation elements 14, 15, 16 are designed such that a larger dimension 26 of the cross section is aligned transversely to the insertion direction 19.

[0076] This results in a preferred bending direction 27 of the deformation elements 14, 15, 16 approximately in the direction of the insertion direction 19, whereby the mentioned compression can be easily achieved.

[0077] As already mentioned, the support elements 12, 13 seal the hollow profile 5. This is achieved by a shape adjustment that extends over the sides 28 of the connector 1, which define a height 10, into the sides 29 of the connector 1, which define a width 8.

[0078] This sealing is continued by the deformation elements 14, 15, 16, so that the hollow profile 5 is completely sealed by the connector 1 in a longitudinal section 56, which contains a deformation element 14, 15 or 16.

[0079] The embodiment according to the Figures 1-4 shows the connector 1 using the example of a corner connector 30, which can be inserted into a corner 31 of a spacer frame 2.

[0080] The first spring element 14 and the second deformation element 15 are each designed as an insertion aid 32, which facilitates insertion into the free ends 21 and assists in compression.

[0081] For this purpose, the first deformation element 14 or the second deformation element 15 with the adjacent support elements 12, 13 describe a frame 33, at the corners 34 of which an inner angle 35 is smaller than a (complementary) outer angle 36.

[0082] The frame 33 is thus convex in shape.

[0083] This convex shape, which in other embodiments not shown can also be described by curvilinear boundaries and / or rounded corners, can prevent the not fully compressed connector 1 from getting caught when plugged into the hollow profile 5.

[0084] The deformation elements 14, 15 are in the embodiment shown according to Figures 1-4 V-shaped design, resulting in a virtually linear spring characteristic.

[0085] Figure 5 shows the inventive use of a further connector 1. Functionally and / or constructively to the Figures 1-4 Similar or identical components and functional units are designated by the same reference symbols and are not described separately again. The explanations regarding the Figures 1-4 therefore apply to Figure 5 accordingly.

[0086] The connector 1 according to Figure 5 differs from the previously described connector 1 in that a stop 37 is formed for the hollow profile 5, up to which the spacer frame 2 can be plugged.

[0087] This stop 37 is designed in such a way that it receives and continues an outer contour 38 of the spacer frame 2, so that the spacer frame 2 with the inserted connector 1 can rest flatly on the adjacent pane without any gaps.

[0088] Figure 6shows a further connector 1 which can be used according to the invention. Components and functional units which are structurally and / or functionally similar or identical to the preceding embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. Figures 1-5 therefore apply to the embodiment according to Figure 6 accordingly.

[0089] The embodiment according to Figure 6 differs from the preceding embodiments in that a lamella structure 40 is formed on the outer side 39 of the connector 1, which has at least one lamella 41.

[0090] A preferred bending direction is oriented transversely to a compression direction 43 of the connector 1. The slats 41 can thus conform to the hollow profile 5 and thus create a tight seal even with tolerances in the manufacturing of the connector 1 and / or the hollow profile 5. The slats 41 are oriented in such a way that they can provide additional pull-out protection.

[0091] The Figure 7 shows a further connector 1 which can be used according to the invention. Components and functional units which are structurally and / or functionally similar or identical to the preceding embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. Figures 1-6 therefore apply to the Figure 7 accordingly.

[0092] The embodiment according to Figure 7differs from the preceding embodiments in that the additional deformation elements 16 are O-shaped. This results in a non-linear, in this case progressive, spring characteristic curve in which the spring constant increases with increasing compression.

[0093] The height 10 of the deformation elements 14, 15, 16 is in the embodiments according to the Figures 1-7 selected so that a complete closure of the hollow profile 5 is achieved at least in one area.

[0094] Figure 8 shows a further connector 1 which can be used according to the invention. Components and functional units which are functionally and / or structurally similar or identical to the preceding embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. Figures 1-7 therefore apply to the Figure 8 accordingly.

[0095] The embodiment according to Figure 8 differs from the preceding exemplary embodiments in that the further deformation elements 16, which are basically O-shaped, are each interrupted at two interruption points 44. During compression, very small bending radii in the deformation element 16, which would lead to high restoring forces, are therefore avoided shortly before maximum compression. This allows maximum compression, so that a very large range of possible widths 8 can be covered by the deformation of the deformation element 16. The special design of the deformation elements 16 as bent-up tongues means that a restoring force increases less than proportionally to the travel, so that a regressive spring characteristic curve is formed. This also supports the achievement of maximum compression.

[0096] Figure 9shows a further connector 1 which can be used according to the invention. Components and functional units which are structurally and / or functionally similar or identical to the preceding embodiments are again designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. Figures 1-8 therefore apply to the Figure 9 accordingly.

[0097] The connector 1 according to Figure 9 differs from the previous embodiments in that it is designed as a straight connector 46.

[0098] The connector 1 according to Figure 9 It further differs from the preceding embodiments in that only a single deformation element 14, which is O-shaped, is present. This deformation element 14 extends into both longitudinal halves 58 of the connector 1 and thus causes the support elements 12, 13 to rest against both free ends 21.

[0099] Figure 10 shows a further connector 1 which can be used according to the invention. Components and functional units which are functionally and / or structurally similar or identical to the preceding embodiments are again designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. Figures 1-9 are therefore considered Figure 10 accordingly.

[0100] Also in the embodiment according to Figure 10 the connector 1 is designed as a straight connector 46.

[0101] In other words, the legs 6, 7 are arranged in an elongated manner, so that the legs 6,7 enclose an angle of 180°.

[0102] The embodiment according to Figure 10differs from the previous embodiment in that it includes a first deformation element 14, a second deformation element 15, and a further deformation element 16, each of which is O-shaped. As in some of the previous embodiments, the deformation elements 14, 15, 16 are arranged at a uniform distance from one another.

[0103] Insertion aids 32 in the form of bevels are formed on the support elements 12, 13.

[0104] Figure 11 shows another connector 1 that can be used according to the invention.

[0105] As in the embodiment according to Figure 5 Stops 37 are formed on both sides, which define a system for both free ends 21.

[0106] The height of the stop 37 above the legs 6, 7 is selected so that it corresponds to a wall thickness 48 of the hollow profile 5.

[0107] Figure 12shows a further exemplary embodiment according to the invention. Again, structurally and / or functionally similar or identical components and functional units to the preceding identification examples are designated with the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. The explanations regarding the preceding exemplary embodiments according to Figures 1-11 therefore apply to Figure 12 accordingly.

[0108] In the embodiment according to Figure 11 On one side of the further deformation element 16, two levers 51 are formed, which form a first pair of levers 52.

[0109] On the opposite side, two second levers 53 are formed, which form a second pair of levers 54.

[0110] Since the first levers 51 are shorter than the second levers 53, the additional deformation element 16 will reduce its height measurement 57 upon compression by sinking between the support elements 12, 13. This reduces the static friction of the connector 1 against the hollow profile 5 in the compressed state.

[0111] In Figure 12 It can be seen that the two sections 20 of the spacer frame 2 can be pushed open until they touch at the separation point 22.

[0112] This is made possible by the fact that a maximum outer contour does not extend further than specified by the hollow profile 5.

[0113] Thus, a mitre 50 can be formed on the spacer frame 2, which can be welded or connected in another materially bonded manner, for example.

[0114] Figure 13 and Figure 14show a further connector 1 usable according to the invention and its use according to the invention. Components and fusion units that are functionally and / or structurally similar or identical to the preceding embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. Figures 1-12 are therefore considered to be Figures 13 and 14 accordingly.

[0115] The connector 1 is also designed as a straight connector 46. The deformation elements 14, 15 run in a zigzag pattern between the support elements 12, 13.

[0116] Figure 14 shows the use of the straight connector 46 on a straight side 47 of a spacer frame 2.

[0117] Such separation points 22 occur, for example, when the spacer frame 2 is bent from a rod profile - preferably filled with granulate.

[0118] For example, the sections 20 of the spacer frame 2 can be welded together at the separation point 21 and completely accommodate the connector 1.

[0119] Such a welded connection can also be realized with corner connectors 30, for example by a miter cut on the sections 20, as shown Figure 12 shows.

[0120] The embodiments shown and other embodiments have in common that the connector 1 is manufactured as an injection-molded part.

[0121] Figure 15 shows the inventive use of another straight connector 1 in a three-dimensional oblique view. Functionally and / or constructively to the Figures 1-14 Similar or identical components and functional units are designated by the same reference symbols and are not described separately again. The explanations regarding the Figures 1-14 therefore apply to Figure 15 accordingly.

[0122] The embodiment according to Figure 15 differs from the preceding embodiments by a securing means 59 (here in the form of a guide rib on each support element 12, 13 running in the insertion direction 19). These securing means 59 engage with an associated counter-securing means 60 (here in the form of a matching guide bead also running in the insertion direction 19) in the hollow profile 5 and thus prevent the connector 1 from being reduced in width 8 when plugged in.

[0123] Figure 16 shows the inventive use of another straight connector 1 in a three-dimensional oblique view. Functionally and / or constructively to the Figures 1-15 Similar or identical components and functional units are designated by the same reference symbols and are not described separately again. The explanations regarding the Figures 1-15 therefore apply to Figure 16 accordingly.

[0124] The embodiment according to Figure 16 differs from the previous embodiment in that the securing means 59 are designed as a guide groove and the counter-securing means 60 as a guide rib

[0125] Figure 17 shows a further straight connector 1 which can be used according to the invention in a three-dimensional oblique view. Functionally and / or constructively to the Figures 1-16 Similar or identical components and functional units are designated by the same reference symbols and are not described separately again. The explanations regarding the Figures 1-16 therefore apply to Figure 17 accordingly.

[0126] The embodiment according to Figure 17differs from the preceding embodiments in that the insertion aid 32 is formed by two concavely curved legs of the first and second deformation elements 14, 15, respectively. This results in a shape that describes a continuous, seamless increase in width 8 along the insertion direction 19. Thus, the connector cannot become caught on the hollow profile 5, even in a partially compressed state.

[0127] The Figures 18 and 19 show a further connector 1 which can be used according to the invention in a three-dimensional oblique view. Functionally and / or constructively to the Figures 1-17 Similar or identical components and functional units are designated by the same reference symbols and are not described separately again. The explanations regarding the Figures 1-17 therefore apply to the Figures 18 and 19 accordingly.

[0128] The embodiment according to the Figures 18 and 19differs from the previous embodiments in that the additional deformation element 16 is attached on one side and only touches the opposite support element 13 after a certain compression. Thus, at the beginning of the compression, only the first deformation element 14 and the second deformation element 15 contribute to the restoring force.

[0129] By designing the further deformation element 16 as a curved tongue, the developed spring force will also increase less than linearly, and a regressive spring characteristic curve is formed.

[0130] In the embodiments shown, the deformation elements 14, 15, 16 are designed as spring elements.

[0131] In a further embodiment, the plug connector 1 is formed from at least one metallic material. The deformation elements 14, 15 and / or the at least one further deformation element 16 can be partially or completely plastically deformable to enable adjustment of the width 8. A contacting and / or sealing engagement of the at least one support element 12, 13 and / or the at least one connecting element 18 with the hollow profile 5 can be achieved, for example, by the deformation elements 14, 15, 16 involved partially springing back after plastic deformation, thus forming spring elements. In the plug connector 1, it is therefore proposed to arrange at least one deformation element 14, 15, 16 gripped on both sides in such a way that a width 8 of the plug connector 1 can be varied by deformation of the at least one deformation element 14, 15, 16. List of reference symbols

[0132] 1Connector 2Spacer frame 3Space between panes 4Narrow side 5Hollow profile 6(first) leg 7(second) leg 8Width (of a leg) 9Length (of a leg) 10Height (of a leg) 11Distance (of the panes) 12(first) support element 13(second) support element 14(first) deformation element 15(second) deformation element 16(further) deformation element 17End of a deformation element 19Insertion direction 20Section (of the spacer frame) 21Free end 22Separation point 23Interior 24Side contour (of a support element) 25Gap 26Dimension (of a cross-section of a deformation element) 27Bending direction 28(first) side of the connector 29(second) side of the connector 30Corner connector 31Corner (of a spacer frame) 32Insertion aid 33Frame 34Corner (of the frame) 35Inner angle 36Outer angle 37Stop 38Outer contour (of the spacer frame) 39Outside 40Lamella structure 41Lamella 42Bending direction (of the lamella) 43Compression direction 44Interruption point 45Connection channel 46Straight connector 47Straight side (of a spacer frame) 48Wall 49Maximum outer contour (of the connector) 50Miter 51(first) lever 52(first) pair of levers 53(second) lever 54(second) pair of levers 55Outer wall 56Longitudinal section (of a connector) 57Height dimension 58Longitudinal half 59Securing device 60Counter-securing device

Claims

1. Use of a plug connector (1) for spacer frames (2) of different widths, wherein the spacer frame (2) has a hollow profile (5) into which the plug connector (1) can be inserted, characterized in that the plug connector (1) has at least two carrier elements (12, 13) which are connected to one another via at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16), in particular a spring element, in that a width of the plug connector (1) can be easily changed by the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16) by deforming the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16), and in that the plug connector (1) completely fills the hollow profile (5) at least in a longitudinal section (56), in particular at the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16).

2. Use according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the at least one carrier element (12, 13), in particular the at least two carrier elements (12, 13), is / are designed to be stiffer than the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16), in particular wherein a characteristic cross-section of the at least one support element (12, 13) has an area more than twice as large as a characteristic cross-section of the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16).

3. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16) has a characteristic cross-section whose larger dimension (26) is aligned transversely to an insertion direction (19), and / or in that the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16) has a preferred bending direction (27) which is aligned at a right angle to an insertion direction (19).

4. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one carrier element (12), in particular the at least two carrier elements (12, 13), is / are shaped corresponding to the hollow profile (5).

5. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plug connector (1) is a corner plug connector (30) or a straight plug connector (46) and / or in that the plug connector (1) is manufactured as an injection-molded part.

6. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a securing means (59) is formed on the plug connector (1), in particular on the at least one carrier element (12, 13), which secures the or a set width (8) of the plug connector in the hollow profile (5).

7. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16) changes its height dimension (57) during compression, in particular reduces it, and / or in that the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16) supports the at least two carrier elements (12, 13) in both longitudinal halves (58) or legs (6, 7).

8. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a lamellar structure (40) is formed on the plug connector (1), in particular on an outer side (39), the preferred bending direction (42) of which is aligned transversely to a compression direction (43) of the deformation element (14, 15).

9. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16) is of V-shaped, Z-shaped, zigzag-shaped or O-shaped design, and / or in that the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16) is designed as an insertion aid (32), in particular wherein the at least one deformation element (14, 15) forms a frame (33) with a width (8) that varies continuously in the insertion direction.

10. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two identical deformation elements (14, 15, 16) are formed and / or in that the at least one deformation element (14, 15, 16) has a linear or a progressive or a degressive spring characteristic.

11. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a maximum outer contour (38) is matched to the hollow profile (5) and / or in that a stop (37) is formed for the hollow profile (5).

12. Use according to one of the preceding claims in a spacer frame (2) for a window pane arrangement, in particular of a window or a door, wherein the plug connector (1) connects the spacer frame (2) at a separation point (22), in particular wherein the hollow profile (5) and an outer contour (49) of the plug connector (1) form a positive connection by which the plug connector (1) is fixed in its width (8) in the inserted position.

13. Use according to claim 12, characterized in that the spacer frame (2) is welded to the plug connector (1) or in that the plug connector (1) continues an outer contour (38) of the spacer frame (1).

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