Support bar for forming a grating and grating comprising such a support bar and a cover element

Abstract

The invention relates to a support bar (1) for a grating (2). The invention also relates to a method for attaching information to a grating (2).The support bar (1) extends along a longitudinal axis (3) from a first support bar end (4) to a second support bar end (5), wherein the longitudinal axis (3) lies in a horizontal plane (6) in an installation position of the support bar (1), and which support bar (1) has extensions (7) on one side, which extensions (7) each have a top surface (8), which top surfaces (8) form a walkable surface of a grating (2) in the installation position of the support bar (1). It is provided that the support bar (1) has a first coupling area (9) with a first coupling surface (10), which first coupling area (9) is designed such that the first coupling surface (10) can be coupled with a second coupling surface (11) of a second coupling area (12) of a cover element (13), so that the top surface (8) of an extension (7) is covered by the cover element (13).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a support rod, a cover element for a support rod and a grating.

[0002] Gratings, such as modular overflow gratings for covering overflow channels of swimming pools, or gratings for covering shafts, channels, or the like, are well known in the art. EP3023560B1 and CN213869132U disclose elements for forming swimming pool gratings, each of which consists of horizontally connectable or interlocking support bars. WO 2020 115 210 A1, DE 39 10 126 A1, and KR 100 944 807 B1 also disclose related gratings or gratings of the aforementioned type.

[0003] Typically, gratings are used to cover hazardous areas, such as gutters, channels, pits, ditches, and the like. It is important to mark hazardous areas to warn people of any potential risk of injury. Particularly in swimming pools, where both the overflow channel and the pool itself represent a hazardous area, markings with information, such as water depth, are extremely important for safety. Currently, such markings are provided by information signs in the immediate vicinity of the hazardous area, for example, signs affixed to the floor in front of the grating. However, such information is often not sufficiently noticed, so that people may even miss it completely and thus not be warned of hazards, or not adequately.

[0004] The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a particularly safe grating, in particular a particularly safe overflow grate for a swimming pool.

[0005] This object is achieved by a device and a method according to the claims.

[0006] The invention relates to a support bar for forming a grating, which support bar extends along a longitudinal axis from a first support bar end to a second support bar end, wherein the longitudinal axis lies in a horizontal plane in an installed position of the support bar.

[0007] According to the invention, the support rod has extensions on one side, each of which has an upper side, which upper sides form a walkable surface of a grating when the support rod is in the installed position. Furthermore, the support rod has a first coupling region with a first coupling surface, which first coupling region is designed such that the first coupling surface can be coupled to a second coupling surface of a second coupling region of a cover element, so that the upper side of an extension is covered by the cover element.

[0008] The inventive design of a support bar has the advantage of increasing the safety of a grating composed of multiple support bars because information and warnings can be applied directly to the support bars, or more precisely, to the extensions. This allows observers to be reliably and efficiently warned of hazards and hazardous areas. Because information and warnings about hazards can be applied directly, flexibly, and individually to the support bar using cover elements, they are not overlooked, or at least are difficult to miss.

[0009] The installation position of the support bar refers to the orientation or position of the support bar in which it is installed or mounted to form a grating and can therefore be used. The support bar is installed or mounted in a horizontal position, essentially along its support bar length, which extends from one support bar end to the other. The two ends of the support bar lie in an at least essentially horizontal plane in the installed position. It is also conceivable for a grating formed from support bars to have a certain gradient. It is also conceivable for the individual support bars to lie in their own horizontal plane in an installation position, and for the individual support bars to be offset from one another in a vertical direction, so that the resulting grating is designed like a staircase and has a gradient.

[0010] The support rod or a base body of the support rod can have an elongated, cuboidal basic shape. It is also conceivable for the support rod to have an elongated, cylindrical basic shape. Accordingly, terms such as side, long side, end face, top side, bottom side, etc. can refer not only to sides lying entirely in one plane, but also to areas and zones along a cylinder surface that, in an installed position of the support rod, face a specific spatial position or spatial plane.

[0011] The extensions, which are arranged on a single side, or on the top side, of the support bar, preferably extend comb-like along the longitudinal axis, each at a right angle to the longitudinal axis. It is also conceivable that not just a single row of extensions is formed on the top side, but that two or more rows of extensions are formed, which can extend parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis. This can be advantageous for the formation of large-area gratings and reduce installation time.

[0012] The extensions are preferably of identical construction, i.e., identically dimensioned, and spaced from each other in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis, i.e., 90° to the longitudinal axis, or, in the installed position, also in the horizontal direction. The distance or spacing, i.e., a gap, between the individual extensions in the intermediate regions between the extensions is preferably always the same. In particular, the spacing can be selected such that the risk of injury from body parts such as fingers getting caught can be minimized. In practice, spacings of less than or equal to 10 mm, preferably less than or equal to 8 mm, have proven to be appropriate.

[0013] The areas between the extensions, i.e., the intermediate sections, are preferably channel-like when viewed horizontally and at 90° to the longitudinal axis of the support bar. This has the advantage that runoff water can drain off particularly well. Furthermore, it has been shown that channel-like intermediate sections are particularly easy to clean, which can enable particularly hygienic operation, especially when used as an overflow channel in a swimming pool.

[0014] The upper surfaces of the extensions are preferably flat, meaning they lie in a common horizontal plane when installed. The upper surfaces of the extensions form a walkable surface or tread surface. If one or more upper surfaces of the extensions are covered with one or more cover elements, then the upper surfaces of the extensions face the walkable surface, or the cover elements or their surfaces form the walkable surface.

[0015] It is also conceivable that the projections have an anti-slip surface, for example through a high degree of roughness, through a rubber coating, or through an anti-slip structure, such as by means of knobs or teeth.

[0016] A cover element can be a cap or a cap-shaped or cap-like element. It can also be an element with a plate-shaped, panel-shaped, or shield-shaped basic shape.

[0017] In particular, it is advantageous if the coupling between the first coupling region of an extension and the second coupling region of a cover element is positively and / or frictionally engaged and / or non-positively engaged. Preferably, the two regions are designed to complement each other in terms of shape and / or function. Coupling can be achieved, in particular, by a clamping mechanism, a spring mechanism, or a locking mechanism. The cover element can be placed on the upper side of the extension or several extensions and coupled to the extension by applying a vertical force, for example, by manual pressure or by means of a hammer.

[0018] Furthermore, it may be expedient for the first coupling area of ​​the support rod to be detachably coupled to the second coupling area of ​​a cover element. This has the advantage of facilitating individual design and flexible attachment of notices and information. The cover element can be removed either manually or using a suitable tool designed to detach the cover element from the extension or support rod. Depending on the shape of the cover element, a pin-, lever-, or pliers-shaped tool may be suitable for this purpose.

[0019] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first coupling region is formed on a further side of the support bar, in particular on a long side of the support bar that is aligned in a vertical plane when the support bar is in its installed position, or that the first coupling region is formed on one of the extensions, in particular laterally on one of the extensions when viewed in the installed position. This has the advantage that attachment or coupling of a cover element to the support bar or extension is made easier. In addition, a first coupling region formed laterally on the support bar is less easily damaged if it is not located on the tread surface, i.e. on the upper side. By further side, we mean in particular that the first coupling region is formed laterally on the support bar, i.e. along a vertical long side, when the support bar is viewed in the installed position.In an installed position of the support bar, the long sides of the support bar are those sides that extend essentially along a vertical line.

[0020] Furthermore, the first coupling area can be designed as a collar on another side, for example, on a long side, of the support rod. This has the advantage of facilitating the attachment or coupling of a cover element to the support rod or extension.

[0021] Also advantageous is a configuration according to which the first coupling region can be designed as an elongated recess, in particular as a locking notch, or as an elongated elevation, in particular as a locking lug, on the other side of the support rod and / or on one of the extensions. This has the advantage of facilitating the attachment or coupling of a cover element to the support rod or extension. Furthermore, a stable and secure coupling between the base body of the support rod and a cover element or between the extension and cover element can be improved.

[0022] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the locking notch or locking lug extends over the entire circumference of the extension or over part of the circumference. This has the advantage of facilitating the attachment or coupling of a cover element to the extension. Furthermore, a stable and secure coupling between the extension and the cover element can be improved.

[0023] Furthermore, the extensions can each have a rectangular cross-section, viewed orthogonally to the top. A round cross-section is also conceivable. This has the advantage of facilitating the attachment or coupling of a cover element to the extension. Furthermore, a stable and secure coupling between the extension and the cover element can be improved.

[0024] Furthermore, the support bar can be provided with a connecting section, which connecting section has a socket on another side of the support bar, i.e., on one of its vertical long sides when viewed in the installed position, and which connecting section has a plug on a side of the support bar opposite the other side. This has the advantage that several structurally identical or similar support bars can be flexibly and efficiently connected to one another to form a grating.

[0025] According to a special embodiment, it is possible for the connecting section to have an opening extending from the further side to the side opposite the further side. This has the advantage of creating a possibility for improving the transverse compressive stability of a grating formed from several supporting bars.

[0026] In addition, it can be provided that the support bar is widened in the area of ​​the connecting sections, i.e. is wider than the width of the base body of the support bar. Such a reinforcement area can be useful for improving the stability of the support bar. Furthermore, it can be provided that in this widened or thicker area, i.e. in the reinforcement area, notches can be provided in the vicinity of or below the collar, so that a good coupling between a cover element and the first coupling area is also possible in the reinforcement area. The number, size and type of notches are adapted to the respective design of the first and second coupling areas. A reinforcement area can be formed on both sides, i.e. on both long sides of the support bar, and can have corresponding notches.

[0027] According to an advantageous development, it can be provided that the support bar has a cross-connection section, in which cross-connection section a further opening, in particular a further through-bore, is formed, which further opening extends from one further side to the side opposite the further side. The term cross-connection section refers to a section by means of which a horizontal connection of several support bars is possible, viewed in the installed position. This has the advantage that it creates an efficient way of connecting several support bars to one another in a corner region of a grating. In particular, this advantageous development makes it possible for the grid-like structure created by the support bars with their extensions to be retained even in the corner regions when the grating is viewed from above.It may also be the case that spacers are provided in the cross-connection sections so that the distance between the support bars can be kept constant.

[0028] In particular, it can be advantageous if a drip element, in particular a drip edge or a drip nose protruding outwards from the base of the support bar, is formed on the underside of the support bar opposite the upper side. This has the advantage of reducing the dripping noise caused by water dripping from the underside of the support bar into a gutter or channel below. This can be particularly advantageous when used as support bars for a swimming pool overflow channel, minimizing noise pollution.

[0029] The object of the invention is also achieved by a cover element for covering an extension of a support rod to form a grating. The cover element has a second coupling region with a second coupling surface, which second coupling surface can be coupled, in particular detachably coupled, to a first coupling surface of a first coupling region of a support rod, so that an upper side of an extension is covered by the cover element, so that an upper side of the cover element forms a walkable surface in an installed position of the support rod.

[0030] This exemplary design of a cover element has the advantage of increasing the safety of a grating made of support bars because information and warnings can be applied directly to the support bars. This allows observers to be reliably and efficiently warned of hazards and hazardous areas. Because information and warnings about hazards can be applied directly, flexibly, and individually to the support bar using cover elements, they are difficult to miss, or at least impossible to miss.

[0031] A cover element can be a cover cap or a cap-shaped or cap-like element. If a cover element is dimensioned such that it covers the top of a single extension, for example, by being cap-shaped, the application of information and warnings to a grating can be particularly well-designed and flexible. Several such cover elements can be arranged to form a large lettering that extends across a grating. The cover elements preferably contrast with the supporting bars or uncovered extensions in color, for example, in a red signal color, to improve readability and visibility.

[0032] If a cover element is dimensioned such that it covers the upper sides of several extensions, for example by having a plate-shaped, panel-shaped or shield-shaped basic shape and is thus designed, for example, as a cover plate or cover plate or cover panel, it can be used to apply particularly complex information with pictograms or the like to a grating. A cover plate can be designed, in particular, at its corner regions, with second coupling regions so that a cover plate can be coupled to the support bars at the corners. Alternatively or additionally, the cover plates can also be designed with second coupling regions along their lengths, thus providing a larger coupling surface. A cover plate can also be a frame, for example a plastic frame, regardless of the specific design of its second coupling regions.A warning sign or information sign can be inserted into such a frame.

[0033] Furthermore, the cover element can have a clamp-like basic shape, wherein the cover element, particularly in the region of a clamp end, particularly on an inner side of the cover element, is formed with an elongated elevation, particularly with a locking lug, or with an elongated depression, particularly with a locking notch. This has the advantage of enabling a simple yet stable coupling to a coupling area of ​​a support rod.

[0034] Another advantageous embodiment is one in which the cover element can have a cuboid-shaped, hollow basic shape that is open at least on one side, wherein the cover element is formed with an elongated elevation, in particular with a locking lug, or with an elongated depression, in particular with a locking notch. This has the advantage of enabling a simple yet stable coupling to a coupling area of ​​a support rod.

[0035] It is also conceivable for multiple cover elements, especially if each is designed to cover a single extension, to be applied to a template, for example, a film, thereby forming a pattern or lettering. This allows for the simultaneous application or coupling of multiple cover elements to the installed grating in a single operation. This allows for the efficient and rapid installation and attachment of signs.

[0036] It is also conceivable to provide a stencil, such as a film, with holes that can be placed on a grating. The stencil is then sprayed with paint or a spray paint, allowing markings to be applied to the projections on the underlying grating through the holes. After the projections have been marked, the stencil can be removed, and in a subsequent step, the individual cover elements, such as individual cover caps or cover plates, can be applied to the marked projections.

[0037] The object of the invention is also achieved by a grating comprising interconnected support bars, and one or more cover elements coupled to one or more support bars.

[0038] The inventive design of a grating has the advantage of increasing the safety of a grating made of support bars because information and warnings can be applied directly to the support bars. This allows observers to be reliably and efficiently warned of hazards and hazardous areas. Because information and warnings about hazards can be applied directly, flexibly, and individually to the grating using cover elements, they are difficult to miss, or at least impossible to miss.

[0039] The object of the invention is also achieved by a method for applying signs and information to a grating. The method comprises the following steps: Providing a grating comprising interconnected support bars, wherein each of the support bars extends along a longitudinal axis from a first support bar end to a second support bar end, wherein the longitudinal axis lies in a horizontal plane in an installed position of each support bar, and which support bars each have extensions on one side, which extensions each have an upper side, which upper sides form a walkable surface of the grating in the installed position of the support bars, and wherein the support bars each have a first coupling region with a first coupling surface, Providing a cover element, wherein the cover element has a second coupling region with a second coupling surface,Coupling the cover element to one of the extensions by establishing a preferably detachable connection between the first coupling surface of a first coupling region of one of the support rods and the second coupling surface of the second coupling region of the cover element, so that the upper side of an extension is covered by the cover element and so that an upper side of the cover element forms a walkable surface in an installed position of the support rod.

[0040] Implementing the method according to the invention has the advantage of increasing the safety of a grating formed from support bars because information and warnings can be applied directly to the support bars. This allows observers to be reliably and efficiently warned of hazards and hazardous areas. Because information and warnings about hazards can be applied directly, flexibly, and individually to the support bar using cover elements, they are not overlooked, or at least are difficult to miss.

[0041] For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail using the following figures.

[0042] They show in a highly simplified, schematic representation: Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a support bar in three-dimensional representation with several coupled cover elements and a separate cover element; Fig. 2 shows another embodiment of a support bar in three-dimensional representation with several coupled cover elements and a separate cover element; Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of a grating with three support bars in three-dimensional exploded view; Fig. 4 shows a detailed view of a sectional representation through an extension with a cover element; Fig. 5 shows a detailed view of a sectional representation through a further extension with a further cover element; Fig. 6 shows a detailed view of a sectional representation through a further extension with a further cover element; Fig. 7 shows a detailed view of a sectional representation through a further extension with a further cover element; Fig. 8 shows a plan view of another embodiment of a grating with a rounded corner area;Fig. 9 is a plan view of another embodiment of a grating with a square corner area; Fig. 10 is a three-dimensional view of another embodiment of a grating with an overflow channel and a cover element; Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of a method for applying signs to a grating; Fig. 12 is a schematic representation of another method for applying signs to a grating.

[0043] By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference symbols or component designations. The disclosures contained throughout the description can be applied analogously to identical parts with identical reference symbols or component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure, and these positional information must be applied analogously to the new position in the event of a change in position.

[0044] The term "in particular" is understood below to mean a possible more specific embodiment or more detailed specification of an object or method step, but does not necessarily represent a mandatory, preferred embodiment of the same or a mandatory procedure. The same applies to the term "for example."

[0045] As used herein, the terms "comprising," "indicates," "having," "includes," "including," "contains," "containing," and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0046] Another term that can be used is "optional." This means that this process step or system component is inherently present, but can be used depending on the operating conditions, although this is not mandatory.

[0047] The exemplary embodiments shown in the figures are intended to be exemplary of a multitude of possible different shapes of support bars, cover elements, and gratings. Sizes and lengths, in particular, can vary depending on requirements.

[0048] The Fig. 1 and the Fig. 2each show an embodiment of a support bar 1 for forming a grating 2, which support bar 1 extends along a longitudinal axis 3 from a first support bar end 4 or a first end face, to a second support bar end 5 or a second end face, wherein the longitudinal axis 3 lies in a horizontal plane 6 in an installed position of the support bar 1. The support bar 1 has extensions 7 on one side, which extensions 7 each have an upper side 8, which upper sides 8 form a walkable surface of a grating 2 in the shown installed position of the support bar 1.It is provided that the support rod 1 has a first coupling region 9 with a first coupling surface 10, which first coupling region 9 is designed such that the first coupling surface 10 can be coupled to a second coupling surface 11 of a second coupling region 12 of a cover element 13, so that the upper side 8 of an extension 7 is covered by the cover element 13.

[0049] The installation position of the support bar 1 refers to the illustrated orientation or position of the support bar 1 in which the support bar 1 is installed or mounted to form a grating 2 and can thus be used. The support bar 1 is installed or mounted in a horizontal position, along its support bar length 30, which extends from one support bar end 4 to the other support bar end 5. In the installed position, the two ends 4, 5 or end faces of the support bar 1 lie, in particular, in an at least substantially horizontal plane 6.

[0050] The support rod 1 or a base body of the support rod 1 can, as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown, an elongated, cuboid-shaped basic shape. It is also conceivable for the support rod 1 to have an elongated, cylindrical basic shape. Accordingly, terms such as side, long side, end face, top side, bottom side, etc. can refer not only to sides lying entirely in one plane, but also to regions and zones along a cylinder surface which, in an installed position of the support rod 1, face a specific spatial position or spatial plane. However, a support rod 1 with a cylindrical base body is not shown in the figure.

[0051] The extensions 7, which are arranged on a single side, or on the upper side 8, of the support rod 1, preferably extend in a comb-like manner along the longitudinal axis 3, each at a right angle to the longitudinal axis 3. It is also conceivable, but not shown in the figure, that not only a single row of extensions 7 is formed on the upper side 8, but that two or more rows of extensions 7 are formed, which can extend parallel to one another and parallel to the longitudinal axis 3.

[0052] The extensions 7 are preferably of identical construction, i.e., identically dimensioned, and spaced apart from one another in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis 3, or, in the installed position, also in the horizontal direction 31. A distance 32, i.e., a gap, between the individual extensions 7 is preferably always the same size. In particular, a distance 32 can be selected such that the risk of injury from body parts such as fingers getting caught can be minimized. In practice, distances 32 of less than or equal to 10 mm, preferably less than or equal to 8 mm, have proven to be expedient.

[0053] In the Fig. 2 and 3 It is shown that the areas between the extensions 7, i.e. the intermediate areas 48, when viewing the support bar 1 at 90° to the longitudinal axis 3 and in the horizontal direction 31, can be groove-like, i.e. they have a rounded shape. Fig. 1 It is shown that the intermediate regions 48 can also be flat.

[0054] The upper sides 8 of the extensions 7 are preferably flat, i.e., in an installed position, they lie in a common horizontal plane 6. The upper sides 8 of the extensions 7 form a walkable surface or a tread surface. If one or more upper sides 8 of the extensions 7 are covered with one or more cover elements 13, then the upper sides 8 of the extensions 7 face the walkable surface, or the cover elements 13 or their upper side 27 form the walkable surface.

[0055] It is also conceivable that the extensions 7 have an anti-slip surface, for example by means of a high degree of roughness, by means of a rubber coating, or by means of an anti-slip structure, for example by means of knobs or teeth.

[0056] A cover element 13 can be a cover cap 33 or a cap-shaped or cap-like element. Fig. 1 and also in the Fig. 2Three cover caps 33 are each coupled to an extension 7. Another cover cap 33 is shown in its uncoupled state, showing that the cover cap 33, like the extensions 7, is cuboid-shaped.

[0057] The cover element 13 can also be a cover plate 34, i.e. an element with a plate-shaped, panel-shaped, or shield-shaped basic shape. A cover element 13 designed as a cover plate 34 is shown, for example, in the Fig. 10 shown. The illustrated cover plate 34 can be formed with second coupling regions 12 at its corner regions. It would also be conceivable for second coupling regions 12 to extend completely or partially along the side of the cover plate 34.

[0058] In particular, it is advantageous if the coupling between the first coupling region 9 of an extension 7 and the second coupling region 12 of a cover element 13 is positively and / or frictionally engaged. Preferably, the two regions 9, 12 are designed or shaped to complement each other in terms of shape and / or function. Coupling can be achieved, in particular, by a clamping mechanism, a spring mechanism, or a locking mechanism.

[0059] It may be that the first coupling region 9 of the support rod 1 is detachably coupled to the second coupling region 12 of a cover element 13. It may also be that the first coupling region 9 is formed on a further side 14, in particular on a longitudinal side 35, of the support rod 1. This is shown by way of example in the Fig. 2 It may also be that the first coupling area 9, as shown in the example in the Fig. 1 shown, is formed on one of the extensions 7.

[0060] By further side 14, it is meant in particular that the first coupling region 9, when viewed in the installed position of the support rod 1, is formed laterally on the support rod 1, i.e. along a vertical longitudinal side 35. In an installed position of the support rod 1, the longitudinal sides 35, 36 of the support rod 1 are therefore those sides that extend essentially along a vertical direction 37. Advantageously, the first coupling region 9 can be as in the Fig. 2 shown, extend in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis 3 along one of the longitudinal sides 35 of the support rod 1. It is also conceivable that the first coupling region 9 extends in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis 3 along a longitudinal side 35 of the extension 7. It is also conceivable and advantageous if the first coupling region 9 extends as in Fig. 1in an orthogonal direction to the longitudinal axis 3 along a transverse side of the extension 7, i.e. parallel to the end faces of the supporting rod 1.

[0061] In this case, it may also be expedient if the extensions 7 are each arranged around an extension longitudinal axis 38, which extension longitudinal axes 38 are each aligned orthogonally to the upper side 8 of the extensions 7 or, in the installed position, in a vertical direction 37. In this case, the first coupling region 9 can extend circumferentially around the circumference of an extension 7. Preferably, a further coupling region 39 is formed on the side 20 opposite the first side 14 or the first longitudinal side 35 or on the second longitudinal side 36 of the support rod 1. In this case, a symmetrical design of the support rod 1 and the coupling regions 9, 39, as in the Fig. 2 shown, appropriate.

[0062] The Fig. 4 to 7show detailed views of support rods 1 and extensions 7, which are each coupled with a cover element 13. Again, the Fig. 4 to 7 The examples shown are representative of a multitude of conceivable designs. Fig. 4 to 7 show sectional views or cross-sections through the supporting rod 1 cut at 90° to the longitudinal axis 3.

[0063] The Fig. 2 shows in particular that it is also possible for the first coupling area 9 to be designed as a collar 15 on the further side 14 or on the longitudinal side 35 of the support rod 1. In the Figs. 6 and 7 Detailed views of supporting rods 1 and extensions 7 are shown with collars 15 formed on both sides, i.e. on both sides 14, 20 and long sides 35, 36. The Figs. 6 and 7 each show sections through a supporting bar 1 90° to the longitudinal axis 3.

[0064] In this case, the first coupling surface 10 of the first coupling region 9 may be formed on a bottom side 40 of the collar 15, which bottom side 40 of the collar 15 is opposite the top side 8 of the extensions 7 or parallel to it. When viewing the support rod 1 in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis 3, i.e. when viewing an end face or a support rod end 4, 5 or when viewing the support rod 1 in a 90° cross section through the support rod 1 according to the Figs. 6 and 7, a collar 15 can be designed to project laterally on the support rod 1. By "lateral" we mean the vertical long sides 35, 36 of the support rod 1, viewed in the installed position. In this case, the main body of the support rod 1 can have a mushroom-shaped cross-section. This means that the support rod 1 has a cross-section which, viewed in the installed position, is wider at the top, i.e. in the region of its top side 8, than in the region of its bottom side 25. A collar 15 can extend over the entire main body or over an entire long side surface, or just over part of a long side surface. Preferably, a further collar 15 is formed on the second long side 36 of the support rod. In this case, a symmetrical design of the support rod 1 and the collar 15 is particularly expedient.

[0065] It is also conceivable that the first coupling area 9 as in the Fig. 4shown, as an elongated recess, in particular as a locking notch 16, or as in the Fig. 5 shown as an elongated elevation, in particular as a locking lug 17, on the further side 14 of the support rod 1 and / or on one of the extensions 7. The Fig. 4 and 5 The depressions and elevations shown are again formed on both sides, i.e. on both sides 14, 20 or longitudinal sides 35, 36 of the support bar 1.

[0066] An elongated recess can be, for example, a notch, a groove, or a groove. An elongated elevation can be, for example, a nose with a round or square profile. An elongated elevation or depression can be provided in addition to the described collar 15, for example, on the underside 40 of the collar 15. Such a conceivable combination of collar 15 and locking notch 16 is shown in the Fig. 7It is also conceivable that the elongated elevation or depression is provided instead of the collar 15, for example in the sense of Fig. 4 and 4 , and also the Fig. 1 .

[0067] It is also possible that the locking notch 16 or the locking lug 17 extends over the entire circumference of the extension 7 or over part of the circumference of the extension 7.

[0068] In general, it may be expedient if the extensions 7 are each arranged rotationally symmetrically about a longitudinal extension axis 38, wherein the longitudinal extension axes 38 are each aligned orthogonally to the upper side 8 of the extensions 7 or, in the installed position, vertically or in a vertical direction 37. The extensions 7 are expediently designed to be complementary in shape or at least partially complementary in shape to a cover element 13 or to parts of a cover element 13.

[0069] The extensions 7 can have a rectangular cross-section or a circular cross-section when viewed orthogonally to the upper side 8 or along their respective extension longitudinal axis 38, or when viewed in the vertical direction 37 from top to bottom. A rectangular cross-section is preferred, as shown in the figures, since, for geometric reasons, a maximum distance or a maximum distance 32 between the individual extensions 7 can be kept constant and also small. Fig. 4 to 7 However, the examples shown may also have a round cross-section.

[0070] If the extensions 7 are each cuboid-shaped, i.e. when viewed in the vertical direction 37 along their extension longitudinal axis 38 they have a rectangular cross-section, then as shown in the Fig. 4 and 5shown, it may be useful if a depression or elevation is formed parallel to or along the longitudinal side 35, 36 of the support bar 1, i.e. parallel to the longitudinal axis 3 of the support bar 1. However, it may also be as shown in the Fig. 1 shown may be expedient if a depression or elevation is formed orthogonally to the longitudinal axis 3 of the support rod 1, on one or both support rod end faces or on one or both sides of the extension 7 facing a support rod end 4, 5. Expediently, the extensions 7 are each formed in a complementary or at least partially complementary shape with a cover element 13 or with parts of a cover element 13.

[0071] The cover elements 13 shown in the figures, which are provided for covering an extension 7 of a support rod 1 to form a grating 2, each have a second coupling region 12 with a second coupling surface 11, which second coupling surface 11 can be coupled, in particular detachably coupled, to a first coupling surface 10 of a first coupling region 9 of a support rod 1, so that an upper side 8 of an extension 7 is covered by the cover element 13, and so that an upper side 27 of the cover element 13 forms a walkable surface in an installed position of the support rod 1.

[0072] A cover element 13 can be a cover cap 33 or a cap-shaped or cap-like element. Representative of a multitude of possible designs, cover elements 13 designed as cover caps 33 are shown in detail in the Fig. 1 and 2 , as well as in the Fig. 4 to 7 , 11 and 12shown. If a cover element 13 is dimensioned such that it covers the upper side 8 of a single extension 7, for example by being cap-shaped, the attachment of instructions and warnings on a grating 2 can be designed particularly well in an individual and flexible manner. Several such cover elements 13 can be arranged as shown in the Fig. 11 and 12 shown, to form a large lettering that extends over a grating 2. The cover elements 13 preferably stand out in color, for example in red signal color, from the support bars 1 or from the uncovered extensions 7, so that readability and visibility are improved.

[0073] Conveniently, the cover elements 13 can have a different color than the support bars 1 or the extensions 7 or the upper surfaces 8 of the extensions 7. Cover elements 13 can be made of a variety of materials. Cover elements 13 made of plastic materials have proven particularly suitable.

[0074] If a cover element 13 is dimensioned such that it covers the upper sides 8 of several extensions 7, for example by having a plate-shaped, panel-shaped or shield-shaped basic shape and, for example, as shown in the Fig. 10 shown as a cover plate 34, it can be used to apply particularly complicated instructions with pictograms, pictures or the like to a grating 2.

[0075] It may also be that the cover element 13 as in the Fig. 2 and 3 and in the Fig. 4 to 7shown, has a clamp-like basic shape, wherein the cover element 13 or the cover cap 33 in the Fig. 4 with an elongated elevation on both sides, in particular with a locking lug 28. Alternatively, it would be as in the Fig. 5 shown is also conceivable if the cover element 13 is formed with an elongated recess, for example on both sides, in particular with a locking notch 29.

[0076] In addition to the clamp-like basic shape, the cover element 13 can be substantially cuboid or cube-shaped. In any case, it is expedient if the cover element 13 is designed to be complementary in shape, or at least partially complementary in shape, to one of the extensions 7 of a support rod 1, so that it can be placed on the extension 7 to cover the upper side 8.

[0077] An elongated elevation, such as a locking lug 28, of the cover element 13 is provided with an elongated depression, for example with a locking notch 16 on a side 35, 36 of the support rod 1 or on an extension 7 (as in the Fig. 4 shown) or with a collar 15 on one side 35, 36 of the support bar 1 (as shown in the Fig. 2 , 3 , 6 and 7 shown), engageable or complementary in form or function.

[0078] An elongated recess, such as a locking notch 29, of the cover element 13 is preferably coupled to an elongated elevation, for example, a locking lug 17 on a side 35, 36 of the support rod 1, or on an extension 7, engageable or complementary in shape or function. This is shown in the Fig. 1 and 5 shown.

[0079] It may also be that the cover element 13, as for example in the Fig. 1shown has a cuboid-shaped basic shape which is open on one side, wherein the cover element 13 is formed with an elongated elevation, in particular with a locking lug 28, or with an elongated depression, in particular with a locking notch 29.

[0080] Preferably, the elongated elevation or the elongated depression, as shown in all embodiments, are formed on an inner side of the cover element 13, so that they are not visible in the mounted state, i.e. in the state coupled to the extension 7. In the Fig. 1 It is shown that the second coupling area 12, or the locking notch 29, is radially circumferential. This has the advantage that such a symmetrically constructed cover element 13 can be placed on the extension 7 or coupled to it in several ways. Fig. 2 it is shown that the second coupling area 12 can be designed as a locking lug 28 on both inner sides of the clamp-like cover element 13.

[0081] In principle, cover elements 13, especially when designed to cover individual extensions 7, can be made of a plastic material. Especially when the coupling between cover element 13 and extension 7 is achieved by a locking action or a spring action, it may be expedient for the cover element 13 to be made of a flexible material. If the cover element 13 is a plate or a shield, these can be made of either a plastic material or a metal, depending on the application.

[0082] According to a further development, it is possible for an upper side 27 of the cover element 13 to have an anti-slip surface, for example by means of a high degree of roughness, by means of a rubber coating, or by means of an anti-slip structure, for example by means of knobs or teeth.

[0083] It may also be the case that the support rod 1 has a connecting section 18, which connecting section 18 has a socket 19 on the further side 14 of the support rod 1, i.e. when viewing the support rod 1 in the installed position on one of its vertical longitudinal sides 35, 36, and which connecting section 18 has a plug 21 on a side 20 of the support rod 1 opposite the further side 14. In particular, the Fig. 1 , 2 and 3 show support bars 1 each with two such connecting sections 18. In particular, in the exploded view according to Fig. 3 shown how an assembly or installation of support rods 1 can be carried out using the connecting sections 18. It goes without saying that the support rods 1 do not necessarily have to be exactly identical in order to be connected to one another. For example, the support rods 1 can have a different support rod length 30. In the Fig. 2It is also shown that the support rod 1 is widened in the area of ​​the connecting sections 18, i.e., it is wider than the width of the base body of the support rod 1. Such a reinforcement area 49 can be useful for improving the stability of the support rod 1. In addition, Fig. 2 shown that in this widened or thicker area, i.e. in the reinforcement area 49, notches 50 can be provided in the vicinity of or below the collar 15, so that a good coupling between a cover element 13 and the first coupling area 9 is also possible in the reinforcement area 49. As in the Fig. 3 which is the back of the Fig. 2 shown support bar 1, a reinforcement area 49 can also be formed on this side and have corresponding notches 50.

[0084] Preferably, the socket 19 can be coupled to a plug 21 of an identical or similar support rod 1 or can be plugged together in a complementary shape, and the plug 21 can be coupled to a socket 19 of an identical or similar support rod 1 or can be plugged together in a complementary shape. Plug 21 and socket 19 can have a round cross-section, as shown in the figure. However, other shapes or geometries are also conceivable, for example, even square cross-sections.

[0085] Preferably, plug 21 and socket 19 are located directly opposite each other when viewed from a support rod 1 orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 3 or when viewed in the installed position in a horizontal plane 6. Fig. 2 shows a front view of an embodiment and the Fig. 3A rear side of this embodiment, in which plug 21 and socket 19 are opposite each other. Connections using plug 21 and socket 19 are known in the art. The connecting parts can be aligned by positive locking of the plug parts, can be releasably fixed by spring force, and can also be secured against accidental release by screwing.

[0086] Depending on the support bar length 30, the shape and material of the support bar 1, and the vertical load or load-bearing capacity that the grating 2 must withstand, several such connecting sections 18 can be formed. The figures each show support bars 1 with two identical connecting sections 18.

[0087] It is also conceivable, although not shown in the figure, that the support rod 1 is permanently connected to other support rods 1. Permanently can mean that connected support rods 1 can no longer be separated after initial assembly. However, it can also mean that several support rods 1 are essentially made from a single piece. In all cases, including the detachable connections shown between several support rods 1, it is conceivable that several support rods 1 are pre-assembled into prefabricated elements so that on-site assembly can be carried out efficiently, quickly and in a modular manner. Such prefabricated elements can have a predefined length so that they can be put together in a modular manner during final assembly on-site.

[0088] It may also be the case that the connecting section 18 has an opening 22, which opening 22 extends from the further side 14 to the side 20 opposite the further side 14. The Fig. 1 ,2 and 3 The supporting bars 1 shown are formed with such openings 22.

[0089] The opening 22 can, for example, be a through-hole. Fig. 3 As illustrated, a rod 41, for example a threaded rod, is guided in the horizontal direction 31 and substantially at 90° to the longitudinal axis 3 through a plurality of connected support rods 1. Particularly if the support rod 1 is formed from a plastic material or comprises a plastic material, a connection between the support rods 1 by providing an opening 22 or by providing a metal rod 41 for reinforcement or to increase the load-bearing capacity of the grating 2 can be expedient.

[0090] It may also be that the support rod 1, as shown in the Fig. 2 and 3shown, has a cross-connecting section 23, in which cross-connecting section 23 a further opening 24 is formed, which further opening 24 extends from the further side 14 to the side 20 opposite the further side 14. The further opening 24 is preferably, as is the opening 22 in the connecting section 18, orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 3 of the support rod 1 and, in the installed position, parallel to the horizontal plane 6. The further opening 24 in the cross-connecting section 23 can serve to simplify a connection of support rods 1 in a corner region of a grating 2 or to improve the stability of a connection in the corner region. This can be done, for example, by means of further rods or threaded rods. In the Fig. 9Such a corner area of ​​a grating 2 is shown in plan view. The further opening 24 in the cross-connecting section 23 can be provided near the first support bar end 4, but it can also be that an additional opening 24 is formed in a further cross-connecting section 23 near the second support bar end 5. In the Fig. 2 and 3 such a bilateral arrangement of cross-connecting sections 23 is shown.

[0091] It is also conceivable for a corner area of ​​a grating 2 to be rounded, so that the supporting bars 1 in this rounded corner area are not connected parallel, but at an angle to each other. In this case, it may be necessary for a possible cross-connection bar 41 to be flexible so that it can follow the curve in the corner area. Fig. 8 such a round corner area of ​​a grating 2 is shown in plan view.

[0092] It may also be the case that a drip element 26, in particular a drip edge or a drip nose, is formed on a bottom side 25 of the support rod 1 opposite the top side 8. This is shown, for example, in the Fig. 2 and 3 , as well as in the Fig. 10shown. The drip element 26 can preferably be designed as a nose with a round or square profile and extend over the entire short side of the underside 25, i.e. when viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis 3. Several drip elements 26 can also be provided on the underside 25. It is also conceivable that a groove, notch or groove is formed instead of the nose. The drip element 26 is preferably designed on the underside 25 of the support rod 1 in such a way that, in an assembled state, it is positioned above the channel 42 where the channel 42 has a sloping channel wall 43. This can further reduce noise caused by dripping water. However, it is of course also conceivable that the drip element 26, in the assembled state, is positioned directly above a horizontal channel bottom 44 of a channel 42.

[0093] In the Fig. 10It is also shown that the support bars 1 or a grating 2 formed from them can rest on edge regions of a channel 42. For this purpose, it may also be expedient if the support bars 1 are shaped at their end faces or at their two support bar ends 4, 5 in such a way that a distance between the channel wall 43 and the support bar end 4, 5 facing the channel wall 43 is not undesirably large. For this purpose, it may be that the end faces of the support bars 1 or their support bar ends 4, 5 are not as in the Fig. 1 and 2 shown, are not flat, but rather have widened portions or extensions in the axial direction. The distance in the installed state between the support bar ends 4, 5 and the channel wall 43 can be such that the risk of injury from body parts such as fingers getting caught can be minimized. In practice, distances of less than or equal to 10 mm, preferably less than or equal to 8 mm, have proven to be appropriate.

[0094] The Fig. 8 to 12 show conceivable embodiments of gratings 2 comprising interconnected support bars 1. The Fig. 3 shows a grating 2 made of three supporting bars 1 during assembly, i.e. a process for producing a grating 2. In particular, the Figures 8 to 12 Overflow gratings or overflow grilles for overflow channels of a swimming pool. When viewing the top side of a grating 2 formed from several support bars 1, the grating can have a grid-like or pixel-like appearance due to the shape of the top sides 8 of the extensions or the top sides 8 of the cover elements 13. This is shown in the Fig. 8 to 12 shown.

[0095] The Fig. 1 and 2 , as well as the Fig. 11 and 12each show a method for attaching information to a grating 2, representative of a large number of conceivable methods. The following process steps are provided, preferably in the specified order: Providing a grating 2 comprising interconnected identical or different support bars 1, wherein each of the support bars extends along a longitudinal axis 3 from a first support bar end 4 to a second support bar end 5, wherein the longitudinal axis 3 lies in a horizontal plane in an installed position of each support bar 1, and which support bars 1 each have extensions 7 on one side, which extensions 7 each have an upper side 8, which upper sides 8 form a walkable surface of the grating 2 in the installed position of the support bars 1, and wherein the support bars 1 each have a first coupling region 9 with a first coupling surface 10, Providing a cover element 13, in particular a cover element 13 according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the cover element 13 has a second coupling region 12 with a second coupling surface 11,Coupling the cover element 13 with one of the extensions 7 by establishing a preferably detachable connection between the first coupling surface 10 of a first coupling region 9 of one of the support rods 1 with the second coupling surface 11 of the second coupling region 12 of the cover element 13, so that the upper side 8 of an extension 7 is covered by the cover element 13, and so that an upper side 27 of the cover element 13 forms a walkable surface in an installed position of the support rod 1.

[0096] To couple the cover element 13 with one of the extensions 7, for example, as shown in the Fig. 1 and 2 shown, a cover element 13 is placed on the extension 7 and by applying a force 45, a particularly vertical force 45 to the upper side 8 of the cover element 13, for example by manual pressure or by means of a hammer or another suitable tool.

[0097] In the Fig. 11a variant of a method for applying instructions to a grating 2 is shown. It is provided that, prior to the coupling step, a template 46, for example in the form of a film, is placed on a grating 2, wherein a desired arrangement of several individual cover elements 13 is pre-sketched, in particular pre-punched or pre-cut, on this template 46 or film, so that the film has openings 47 at those points where cover elements 13 are subsequently to be applied to the grating 2. Such a template 46 can be placed on the grating 2, and the template 46 can be sprayed over using a marking agent, for example a paint spray, so that the extensions 7 are marked in the area of ​​the openings 47. The template 46 is then removed, and cover elements 13 can be applied to each of the marked extensions 7.This can be particularly useful when complex or large lettering is to be realized with cover elements 13.

[0098] In the Fig. 12 A further variant of a method for applying signs to a grating 2 is shown. It is provided that several cover elements 13, particularly if they are designed as cover caps 33 and each for covering an individual extension 7, are applied, for example glued, to a template 46, for example on a film, and thereby form a pattern or lettering, so that a simultaneous application or coupling of several cover elements 13 to the installed grating 2 is possible in a single operation. This enables the installation and attachment of signs to be made efficient and quick.

[0099] Several cover elements 13 can be attached, for example, glued, with their upper side 8 to a stencil 46 or film, and already form lettering or a pattern on the stencil 46. Such a "negative image" consisting of several cover elements 13 can subsequently be placed in one piece on a grating 2 in the coupling step, and the individual cover elements 13 can be tapped onto the extensions 7, for example, using a hammer or similar device, and brought into engagement with them. The stencil 46 or the film can then be removed from the upper side 8 of the cover elements 13.

[0100] The embodiments show possible embodiments, whereby it should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiments thereof, but rather various combinations of the individual embodiments with each other are also possible and this possibility of variation lies within the skill of the person skilled in the art in this technical field due to the teaching of technical action by means of the objective invention.

[0101] The scope of protection is determined by the claims. Reference symbol list 1 Support rod 31 horizontal direction 2 Grating 32 distance 3 Longitudinal axis 33 Cover cap 4 first support bar end 34 cover plate 5 second support bar end 35 long side 6 horizontal plane 36 long side 7 appendage 37 vertical direction 8 Top of the process 38 Process longitudinal axis 9 first coupling area 39 further coupling area 10 first coupling surface 40 Underside of a collar 11 second coupling surface 41 rod 12 second coupling area 42 gutter 13 Cover element 43 Gutter wall 14 next page 44 Gutter bottom 15 collar 45 Power 16 locking notch 46 template 17 locking lug 47 Breakthrough in the template 18 connecting section 48 Intermediate area 19 socket 49 Gain range 20 Page 50 score 21 Plug 22 breakthrough 23 Cross-connection section 24 further breakthrough 25 Underside of a support rod 26 Draining element 27 Top of the cover element 28 Locking lug of the cover element 29 Locking notch of the cover element 30 Bearing bar length

Claims

1. A support bar (1) for forming a grating (2), which support bar (1) extends along a longitudinal axis (3) from a first support bar end (4) to a second support bar end (5), wherein the longitudinal axis (3) lies in a horizontal plane (6) in an installed position of the support bar (1), wherein the support bar (1) has extensions (7) on one side, which extensions (7) each have an upper side (8), which upper sides (8) form a walkable surface of a grating (2) in the installed position of the support bar (1), and wherein the support bar (1) has a first coupling region (9) with a first coupling surface (10), which first coupling region (9) is configured such that the first coupling surface (10) can be coupled to a second coupling surface (11) of a second coupling region (12) of a cover element (13), so that the upper side (8) of an extension (7) is covered by the cover element (13), characterized in that the support bar (1) has a connecting section (18), which connecting section (18) has a socket (19) on a further side (14) of the support bar (1) and which connecting section (18) has a plug (21) on a side (20) of the support bar (1) opposite the further side (14), wherein the socket (19) can be coupled and / or plugged together in a form-complementary manner with a plug (21) of a support bar (1) of identical or similar construction, and the plug (21) can be coupled or plugged together in a form-complementary manner with a socket (19) of a support bar (1) of identical or similar construction.

2. The support bar (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first coupling region (9) of the support bar (1) can be releasably coupled to the second coupling region (12) of a cover element (13).

3. The support bar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first coupling region (9) is formed on a further side (14) of the support bar (1), or that the first coupling region (9) is formed on one of the extensions (7).

4. The support bar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first coupling region (9) is formed as a collar (15) on a further side (14) of the support bar (1).

5. The support bar (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the first coupling region (9) is formed as an elongate depression, in particular as a locking notch (16), or as an elongate elevation, in particular as a locking lug (17), on the further side (14) of the support bar (1) and / or on one of the extensions (7).

6. The support bar (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the locking notch (16) or the locking lug (17) extends over the entire circumference of the extension (7) or over part of the circumference of the extension (7).

7. The support bar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the extensions (7) each have a rectangular cross-section as seen orthogonally to the upper side (8).

8. The support bar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting section (18) has an aperture (22), which aperture (22) extends from the further side (14) to the side (20) opposite the further side (14).

9. The support bar (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the support bar (1) has a cross-connection section (23), in which cross-connection section (23) a further aperture (24) is formed, which further aperture (24) extends from a further side (14) to the side (20) opposite the further side (14).

10. The support bar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a drip element (26), in particular a drip edge or a drip nose, is formed on a bottom side (25) of the support bar (1) opposite the upper side (8).

11. A grating (2) comprising interconnected support bars (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, and one or more cover elements (13) coupled to one or more support bars (1), having a second coupling surface (11) of a second coupling region (12), which second coupling surface (11) is coupled, in particular detachably coupled, to the first coupling surface of the first coupling region (9) of a support bar (1), so that an upper side (8) of an extension (7) is covered by the cover element (13), and so that an upper side (27) of the cover element (13) forms a walkable surface in an installed position of the support bar (1).

12. A method for applying information to a grating (2), in particular a grating (2) according to claim 11, comprising the method steps: - providing a grating (2) comprising interconnected support bars (1), in particular support bars (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each of the support bars extends along a longitudinal axis (3) from a first support bar end (4) to a second support bar end (5), wherein the longitudinal axis (3) lies in a horizontal plane (6) in an installed position of each support bar (1), and which support bars (1) each have extensions (7) on one side, which extensions (7) each have an upper side (8), which upper sides (8) form a walkable surface of the grating (2) in the installed position of the support bars (1), wherein the support bars (1) each have a first coupling region (9) with a first coupling surface (10), and wherein the support bar (1) has a connecting section (18), which connecting section (18) has a socket (19) on a further side (14) of the support bar (1) and which connecting section (18) has a plug (21) on a side (20) of the support bar (1) opposite the further side (14), - providing a cover element (13), wherein the cover element (13) has a second coupling region (12) with a second coupling surface (11), - coupling the cover element (13) to one of the extensions (7) by establishing a preferably releasable connection between the first coupling surface (10) of a first coupling region (9) of one of the support bars (1) and the second coupling surface (11) of the second coupling region (12) of the cover element (13), so that the upper side (8) of an extension (7) is covered by the cover element (13), and so that an upper side (27) of the cover element (13) forms a walkable surface in an installed position of the support bar (1).

Images