Applicator with indication of sufficient pressing force

Abstract

The invention relates to an applicator (1) for bonding two parts to be joined by means of a double-sidedly self-adhesive strip, comprising: a spatially compact handle (2) which is designed and dimensioned for holding the applicator (1) with one or both hands of a user when carrying out an adhesive bonding process, and a pressing edge (3) which is provided at a free distal end of the handle (2) and is designed for applying to a surface of the double-sidedly self-adhesive strip and for pressing same onto a surface of a part to be joined in order to bring about a required adhesive bonding of the adhesive strip to this part to be joined, characterized in that the applicator (1) has a feedback means integrated in the handle (2), the feedback means being designed such that the achievement of a predetermined optimal pressing force with the pressing edge (3) is clearly visually apparent to the user from the outside over the duration of the adhesive bonding process.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to an applicator that can be used as an assembly aid when bonding two parts to be joined, for example, a support body and a wall, using a double-sided self-adhesive strip. For this purpose, the applicator has a handle for holding the applicator with one or both hands of the user, as well as a suitable contact edge at a distal end of the handle. The invention particularly also relates to an assembly kit that, in addition to a double-sided self-adhesive strip, also comprises such an applicator, as well as a method for using the applicator when bonding two parts to be joined.

[0002] Parts to be bonded together can be everyday objects such as framed pictures, picture rails, hooks and other support structures or shelves, as well as vertical wall surfaces, wall coverings, and other substrates to which these objects are to be attached. Often, double-sided self-adhesive strips are provided to the user for this purpose, which must first be applied to a suitable wall surface or other surface of a first part to be bonded, so that the second part can then be attached to it.

[0003] In this context, it is known to use pressure-sensitive adhesives in double-sided self-adhesive strips that exhibit permanent tack at room temperature and bond to various surfaces under pressure. The required minimum contact pressure during assembly depends on the application. In the case of high stress peaks on the adhesive bond, a full-surface minimum contact pressure is essential to ensure that the pressure-sensitive adhesive is in close contact with the respective adherend surface and that many physical interactions on which the adhesive effect is based can be established. State of the art

[0004] Objects that can be attached to walls and other surfaces using self-adhesive tape or double-sided self-adhesive strips are available in a wide variety of designs. Such objects are commercially available, for example, as holders such as hooks or towel rails. Removable double-sided adhesive strips are also available. After bonding, they can be released from the adhesive joint between the wall and the holder by stretching them in a direction approximately parallel to the wall, allowing the holder to be removed again without damaging the surface. Typically, such adhesive strips are bonded behind the holder in such a way that a non-adhesive area remains accessible for stretching and de-bonding.

[0005] For example, US 2008 / 0135159 A1 discloses the use of a rigid applicator tool, for example in the form of a rectangular wooden or plastic plate, with which the user can press pressure-sensitive adhesive strips onto the entire surface, which can be removed again by stretching. For this purpose, it is described that the adhesive strip is first applied to a (joining part) surface to which it is to be attached. Subsequently, according to US 2008 / 0135159 A1, the rigid applicator is to be positioned with its planar edge at a first end of the adhesive strip and pulled along a longitudinal extension of the adhesive strip to its second end. During this process, a force is to be applied to the applicator that is sufficient to press the pressure-sensitive adhesive composition contained in the adhesive strip into close contact with said joining part surface.However, the applicator does not indicate to the user whether sufficient pressure has been applied to bring the pressure-sensitive adhesive composition into close contact with the surface of the adherend.

[0006] In another area of application, a handheld device for transferring an adhesive or correction film to a substrate such as photographic material or paper is known from DE 10 2006 037 372 A1. The handheld device has a housing containing a supply spool from which the adhesive or correction film is unwound via a dispensing point on the outside of the housing. The dispensing point serves to apply the film to the substrate in order to transfer the adhesive or correction layer applied to the film to the substrate. After passing through the dispensing point, the used (empty) film is wound onto a take-up spool also contained in the housing. DE 10 2006 037 372 A1 addresses the problem that it can be difficult for the user to apply the correct pressure to the substrate: If the contact pressure is too low, the film is not transferred correctly or not completely to the substrate.However, if the pressure is too great, the substrate can be destroyed, which can be particularly problematic with photographs. As a solution, a rotatable device built into the back of the housing for "indicating" the optimal contact pressure of the dispensing point on the substrate is proposed. This device specifically comprises spring elements arranged inside the housing, such as leaf springs, as well as suitable stops to protect the device against excessive contact pressure. The device provides the user with a primarily haptic or acoustic "indication" and, not least, serves to reliably prevent the harmful exceeding of a sufficient contact pressure. An applicator according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from US 2013 / 186570 A1.

[0007] This problem does not exist in this case, because both the double-sided self-adhesive strip and the substrate to which it is attached are considerably more robust than photographic or correction film or (photo) paper, and therefore do not require protection against overpressure. However, in this case, significantly higher contact pressures are required to achieve sufficient adhesion and a sufficient pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, because, depending on the application, they must withstand a lateral weight load of up to several kilograms for years. Exceeding these contact pressures is neither a concern nor harmful, unlike when applying correction film to paper.

[0008] Rather, a common challenge when attaching devices that are attached to surfaces using double-sided self-adhesive strips is to provide sufficient contact pressure during the bonding process, which should also be effective across the entire pressure-sensitive adhesive surface of the strip. Furthermore, air pockets between the adherend and the pressure-sensitive adhesive ("unbonds") must be avoided. These reduce the bonding area and thus also the maximum load. State-of-the-art applicators do not indicate to the user what force is sufficient to bring the pressure-sensitive adhesive article into close contact with the surface of a adherend. Task

[0009] The object of the invention is to provide an applicator that is as easy to handle and manufacture as possible and that enables the reliable bonding of two joining parts, such as a support body and a wall, using a double-sided self-adhesive strip. In particular, the object of the invention is to provide an applicator and a method for its use in the bonding process that enable the reliable formation of a full-surface adhesion effect in the adhesive strip, which, depending on the application, can withstand a weight load of up to several kilograms for several years. Solution

[0010] This object is achieved by the invention with the features of the independent claim. Advantageous developments of the invention are characterized in the subclaims and subordinate claims that refer back to the independent claim. The wording of all claims is hereby incorporated by reference into this description. The invention also encompasses all reasonable and, in particular, all mentioned combinations of independent and / or dependent claims. The description of all features and technical effects described with reference to the applicator according to the invention also applies mutatis mutandis to the assembly set and method according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0011] The present invention particularly relates to an applicator for bonding two joining parts (such as a support body and a wall) using a double-sided self-adhesive strip. The applicator has a handle that is designed and dimensioned in its proximal region (i.e., in the case of an elongated handle, at its proximal end) for holding the applicator with one hand of a user during a bonding process.

[0012] A contact edge is provided at a free distal end of the handle, which is not in the user's hand during intended use of the applicator. This edge is designed to engage a surface of the double-sided self-adhesive strip (which is still protected by a non-adhesive protective strip) and to press the adhesive strip against a joining part surface to achieve the required bonding of the adhesive strip to this joining part.

[0013] Advantageously, the applicator has a feedback device integrated into its handle, which is designed such that the user can clearly visually detect from the outside when a predetermined optimal contact pressure of the contact edge on the protective paper of the double-sided self-adhesive strip or joining part has been reached throughout the entire bonding process. A removable, non-adhesive protective layer can be used, for example, as a protective paper or film known per se for double-sided self-adhesive strips.

[0014] This applicator allows parts to be bonded together with sufficient strength using a double-sided self-adhesive strip. Compared to the state of the art, the applicator clearly indicates to the user whether the contact force is sufficient throughout the entire bonding process.

[0015] Consumer tests without the use of such an applicator have shown that users generally only press the double-sided self-adhesive strips very lightly and selectively with their thumb or fingers. The force exerted is on average between 5 and 15 N. The average area of a fingerprint is between 150 and 600 mm², which results in a pressure range of between 0.01 MPa and 0.10 MPa based on the contact area between the protective paper of the double-sided self-adhesive strip or the part to be bonded and the fingertip. This pressure range, however, is significantly below the minimum contact pressure: reliable wetting of the parts to be bonded by the adhesive of the double-sided self-adhesive strip, especially on rough surfaces, is therefore no longer guaranteed. Depending on the application, the optimal contact pressure is usually between approximately 0.2 and 1.0 MPa.

[0016] In particular, the mechanical and geometric parameters of the applicator and its feedback device can be selected in such a way that the user can clearly visually detect the achievement of a predetermined contact pressure in the range between 0.2 and 1.0 MPa over the duration of the bonding process. However, it is also possible to design and dimension the applicator described herein for a predetermined optimal contact pressure that lies significantly below or above this range.

[0017] The contact edge can, but does not necessarily have to, be rectilinear (i.e., one-dimensional and straight) or planar (i.e., two-dimensional and flat), although this corresponds to the most suitable and effective geometry in most applications. The contact edge can, in principle, also have a differently shaped contact point if this better suits the application-specific joining surfaces or required contact pressures than a rectilinear or flat edge or surface. For example, it can also be designed as a rounded tip or a rotating sphere or other rotating body; a cylindrical roller, in turn, results in a rectilinear or planar contact edge.

[0018] In particular, the applicator and its feedback device can be designed so simple and robust that it can be used even with a contact pressure that significantly exceeds the optimal contact pressure. In other words, neither the applicator itself nor its feedback device need be designed to indicate to the user or prevent the exceeding of the predetermined optimal contact pressure during a proper bonding process. This is particularly feasible with all of the embodiments listed below.

[0019] To ensure comfortable holding of the handle when pulling the pressure edge along the adhesive strip, the handle may be elongated and flat and preferably provided with depressions and / or ribbed structures on its upper side facing away from the adhesive strip, which provide the user's fingers with additional grip to prevent slipping.

[0020] It can be particularly advantageous for both production and application if the applicator has a flat overall structure. In the simplest and most advantageous case, the applicator consists only of its handle and the contact edge formed or attached to its free distal end. The contact edge has a lateral (total) extent or length along which it is to be applied to the surfaces to be bonded. The handle has a longitudinal extent in a direction perpendicular to the lateral extent of the contact edge. A transverse overall dimension (in other words, height) of the applicator in a direction perpendicular to the lateral extent of the contact edge and the longitudinal extent of the handle is many times smaller than the lateral extent of the contact edge and / or the longitudinal extent of the handle.In this case, the overall flat handle can be approximately the same width as the lateral extension of the contact edge, or even slightly narrower. Such a flat overall design also makes it possible, for example, to store the applicator in a holder assembled from the joining parts, such as a cover strip with a shallow cavity between the joined parts. If the holder needs to be repositioned at a later time, the applicator is immediately at hand for assembly and does not need to be searched for.

[0021] In a specific embodiment, the feedback means comprises a first handle component which is elastically deformable at least in a contact pressure range extending up to the optimum contact pressure and at whose distal end the contact edge is provided. This first handle component is designed in such a way that its deformation upon reaching the optimum contact pressure is clearly visible to the user from the outside. In other words, the technical problem described above is solved here in that the applicator directly indicates to the user, when the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is pressed onto a joining part, through mechanical deformation of its handle whether the contact force is sufficient over the contact time. The deformation is almost ideally elastic, i.e. when the load is applied, a spontaneous deformation occurs which likewise spontaneously and completely disappears when the load is removed.

[0022] This type of feedback regarding sufficient contact pressure is inherently present throughout the entire contact period, as it depends solely on the contact pressure itself, and is clearly reproducible. The mechanical deformation can be achieved, for example, by a beam that is at least partially elastic, or alternatively by a different type of spring element that forms the first grip component.

[0023] For this purpose, the aforementioned first handle component, which is directly loaded by the contact pressure during the bonding process, can be arranged and attached to a second handle component that is not loaded during the bonding process, for example, in such a way that the elastic deformation of the first handle component only leads to its externally clearly visible positive locking and / or alignment with the second handle component when the optimal contact pressure is reached. The positive locking or alignment of both handle components can provide the user with intuitively understandable feedback on the achievement / existence of the optimal contact pressure, which is also easily visible to the user during the bonding process.

[0024] In particular, this positive connection of the first handle component with the second handle component can be clearly visually recognizable from the outside in that, during the bonding process, the upper sides of both handle components facing the user are angled to one another at contact pressures below the optimal contact pressure and only at this positive connection are they aligned and form a substantially continuously flat surface section with one another.

[0025] In an alternative or further specific embodiment to the above embodiment, the feedback means further comprises at least one externally visible marking on the handle of the applicator, the first part of which is formed on the first handle component directly loaded by the contact pressure and the second part of which is formed on the second handle component not loaded by the contact pressure. Both parts of the marking are offset from one another at contact pressures below the optimum contact pressure and can only be brought together in a clearly recognizable manner by the elastic deformation of the first handle component when the optimum contact pressure is reached, for example by forming a continuous line with one another. This marking can be provided, for example, in the form of one or more notches or lines drawn on the applicator surface.

[0026] According to a first embodiment, said first handle component is designed as an elastically deformable (flexible) distal end portion of a first bar, and the second handle component is designed as a second bar, which may be rigid or elastic. These two bars are fastened to one another in the region of their proximal ends, which is designed for the user to hold the applicator, while their free distal ends protrude from one another by a predetermined transverse distance in an unloaded state of the applicator. This can be realized by a longitudinal curvature or initial bend present in the unloaded state of the first bar and / or by a longitudinal curvature or initial bend of the second bar.

[0027] In this embodiment, the contact edge is only formed at the distal end of the first beam, which is why only this beam is subjected to the contact force. Both beams can otherwise be similarly designed, for example, even made of the same material. However, this is not mandatory due to their different functions.

[0028] During the bonding process, the first bar should be positioned with its longitudinal extension facing the adhesive strip or its protective strip, and only the contact edge should be applied and pressed against it, so that the second bar is positioned on the upper side of the handle facing away from the adhesive strip or its protective strip. The transverse distance between the distal ends of both bars is reduced by the bending of the first bar when contact pressure is applied and only becomes zero when the optimal contact pressure is reached.

[0029] In other words, the applicator in this design consists of two beams connected at one end. If a force is applied to the first beam at the free end, it deforms. When the loaded and unloaded beams touch, the desired force is achieved.

[0030] In this and other embodiments, it may be particularly advantageous, particularly with regard to simple production, if the entire applicator is manufactured in one piece (single-piece), in particular by injection molding.

[0031] In particular, both bars can be connected in the area of their proximal ends by an elastically flexible film hinge made of the same material as the applicator.

[0032] A further development of the above first embodiment makes it possible to secure the arrangement, fixation, and orientation of both bars parallel to each other for the bonding process by means of a clip closure in an assembled state of the applicator intended for use. The clip closure can be based on the engagement of one or more locking hooks formed on one of the two bars in recesses and / or projections formed on the other bar.

[0033] In particular, one or both beams can have cavities on their sides facing each other during the bonding process. These cavities are located inside the handle when the applicator is assembled and can be defined, for example, by stabilizing inner walls / struts. This can significantly reduce the weight and material consumption of the applicator while maintaining mechanical stability.

[0034] As an alternative to a clip closure, both bars can be connected in the region of their proximal ends by a rigid web or longitudinal strut made of the same material as the applicator, which stabilizes them to one another in such a way that when the applicator is pressed with its pressing edge, only the elastically flexible end section of the first bar can move with respect to the second bar until the positive connection is achieved by the elastically flexible end section of the first bar striking a free distal end of the second bar.

[0035] In a second embodiment alternative to the above first embodiment, the first handle component, at its end opposite the contact edge, transitions into a second handle component which is not subjected to the contact pressure and is rigidly designed for holding by the user. The achievement of the optimal contact pressure is clearly visually recognizable from the outside in that the upper sides of both handle components facing the user during the bonding process are angled to one another at contact pressures below the optimal contact pressure. They only align when the optimal contact pressure is reached, preferably forming a substantially continuously flat surface section with one another.

[0036] As an alternative to the design with a handle component that is visibly elastically deformable from the outside, the feedback means can also comprise an elastic spring element (leaf spring, coil spring, and / or an elastomer) integrated into the handle, which deforms reversibly depending on the contact pressure with which the applicator is pressed with its contact edge against a surface. Only the effect of this deformation on the external shape of the handle at the optimal contact pressure is clearly visible to the user from the outside. This can be realized, for example, by a coil spring or a spacer made of an elastomer, etc., which is concealed between two rigid, elongated bars that are connected to each other (rotatably) only in the proximal area and form the handle of the applicator.

[0037] As already mentioned, it is particularly advantageous, especially for flat (planar) adherend surfaces and correspondingly flat adhesive strips, for the contact edge to be straight (one-dimensional) or planar (i.e., two-dimensional and flat). This allows the required pressure-sensitive adhesive effect to be achieved with the applicator in a single stroke.

[0038] The contact edge can also be configured such that the applicator comprises a contact roller rotatably mounted at the distal end of the handle, which is designed to engage and press against the adhesive strip or its protective strip, and to rotate when the applicator is pulled along the adhesive strip (or its protective strip) by its handle. In this case, the section of the roller surface that contacts the adhesive strip or its protective strip forms the contact edge of the applicator. In particular, the contact roller can be cylindrical, resulting in a straight contact edge along the cylinder axis of the contact roller.

[0039] The present invention further relates to a mounting kit, which firstly comprises a double-sided self-adhesive strip designed for attaching two joining parts (e.g., support body and wall) to each other by adhesive bonding. For this purpose, the surface of the adhesive strip is formed on both sides by the same or separate pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, each of which is protected on the outside by a removable, non-adhesive protective strip.

[0040] Secondly, the assembly kit comprises an applicator of the type described herein. This applicator is designed such that the above-mentioned predetermined optimal contact pressure is a sufficient contact pressure to develop the adhesive effect of the pressure-sensitive adhesive of the adhesive strip for its bonding to the respective joining part.

[0041] Advantageously, the pressing edge of the applicator can be geometrically complementary to the surface of the adhesive strip or one of the joining parts. As a result, the pressing edge can be pressed essentially uniformly with the predetermined contact pressure against the entire surface to be bonded, of the adhesive strip and the associated joining part underneath it, at once (particularly in the case of a flat, i.e., two-dimensional pressing edge). Or, alternatively, the pressing edge can (particularly if it is one-dimensional) press the entire surface of the adhesive strip and the associated joining part underneath it against one another essentially uniformly with the predetermined contact pressure in a single stroke or, preferably, in several successively repeated strokes.

[0042] The mounting kit may – but does not have to – also include one or both of the joining parts to be bonded together. For example, the mounting kit may contain one or more identical or different mounting elements, such as wall hooks, etc., all of which have a surface corresponding to the included adhesive strip. Using this surface, the respective mounting element is to be attached to a vertical wall or tile using the double-sided adhesive strip, which then becomes the second joining part.

[0043] The present invention further relates to a method for bonding two joining parts (e.g., holding body and wall) by means of a double-sided self-adhesive adhesive strip using an assembly kit of the type described herein. The adhesive strip comprises a first strip end and an opposite second strip end with an intermediate longitudinal extension whose area approximately corresponds to the surfaces of the two joining parts to be bonded together.

[0044] The method comprises the following steps, which must be carried out in the specified order, although additional intermediate steps may also be added: First, the protective strip is removed from a first surface of the adhesive strip. This surface is then applied to the aforementioned joining surface of a first joining part. The applicator is then placed with its contact edge at the first end of the adhesive strip on the second surface of the strip, which faces away from the first joining part and is still protected by a non-adhesive protective strip during this step.

[0045] Now, starting at the first end of the adhesive strip, the applicator is pulled along the length of the adhesive strip to its second end, with the applicator's contact edge continuously pressed against the adhesive strip and the underlying first joining part at at least the predetermined contact pressure. This pulling process can be repeated one or more times if necessary to extend the total contact time at each point along the strip and thereby further promote the development of the adhesive effect.

[0046] The user can always conveniently and clearly visually check that the optimal contact pressure is not being undershot using the feedback device provided in the applicator. The applicator is then removed from this surface of the adhesive strip and the second protective strip that protected it until then is removed. The second surface of the adhesive strip is then bonded to the second part to be joined. Depending on the specific geometry of the second part to be joined, etc., the applicator can also be used in a similar way for this purpose.

[0047] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the subclaims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The possibilities for achieving the object are not limited to the embodiments.

[0048] The exemplary embodiments are illustrated schematically in the figures, whereby the individual figures can be understood as being true to scale, but do not have to be. The same reference numerals in the individual figures denote identical or functionally identical elements, or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their functions. Not all elements are provided with reference numerals; in particular, the same reference numerals for the same elements are not repeated in every figure. Different views of the same elements may be scaled differently. In detail: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of an unloaded applicator according to a first embodiment of the invention in vertical longitudinal section; Fig. 2A a schematic representation of another example of an applicator according to the first embodiment of the invention in vertical longitudinal section; Fig. 2B a schematic top view of the applicator of Fig. 2A ; Fig. 2C a schematic frontal view of the applicator of Fig. 2A Fig. 3A a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of the applicator with a clip closure in the closed state; Fig. 3B the applicator of the Fig. 3A in the open state; Fig. 4A a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of the applicator with a clip closure in the closed state; Fig. 4B the applicator with the clip closure of the Fig. 4A in the open state; Fig. 5 a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of the applicator with a rigid web or longitudinal strut; and Fig. 6 a schematic perspective view of a further embodiment of the applicator according to a second embodiment.

[0049] Fig. 1 shows a schematic vertical longitudinal section of an embodiment of an applicator 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention described above, in which the applicator 1 is constructed from two beams connected at one end. In the present example, the applicator 1 has a Fig. 1 recognizable flat overall structure, in that its total length exceeds its total height by several times.

[0050] The applicator 1 of the Fig. 1 is designed for bonding two parts (not shown), such as a support body and a wall surface, using a double-sided self-adhesive strip (not shown). For this purpose, the applicator 1 has an elongated handle 2, which can be Fig. 1 right-hand proximal area is designed and dimensioned for holding the applicator 1 with one or two (both) hands of a user when carrying out a bonding operation.

[0051] At the Fig. 1 A pressing edge 3 is provided on the left-hand free distal end of the handle 2. This is designed to be applied to a surface of the double-sided self-adhesive adhesive strip (or to its non-adhesive protective strip) and to press the adhesive strip against a joining part surface (in this example, a flat wall or tile surface) to bring about the required bonding of the adhesive strip to this joining part. In this example, the pressing edge 3 is therefore planar or essentially rectilinear, as will be explained below with reference to the further views of another example of the applicator 1 in Fig. 2B und 2C illustrated and explained.

[0052] According to the invention, the applicator 1 has a feedback means integrated in its handle 2, which is designed such that the achievement of a predetermined optimal contact pressure (in the amount of approximately 0.15 to 1.0 MPa) with the contact edge 3 on the double-sided self-adhesive adhesive strip or joining part is clearly visible to the user from the outside over the duration of the entire bonding process.

[0053] In this example, this feedback means is provided by the handle 2 of the applicator 1 consisting of a Fig. 1 bottom arranged first beam 4 with an elastically flexible distal end portion containing the contact edge 3, and a Fig. 1 The second beam 5 is arranged at the top and remains unloaded during the bonding process. For this purpose, the beams 4 and 5 are only fastened to each other in the proximal area of the handle 2, in this example by screws, of which the Fig. 1 two pieces are visible. The contact edge 3 is formed at the distal end of the first beam 4, which in the unloaded state of the applicator 1 (ie when it is Fig. 1 not applied to the adhesive bond) by a predetermined transverse (in Fig. 1 vertical) distance from the free distal end of the second beam 5.

[0054] When the applicator 1 is placed with its contact edge 3 against a surface of the adhesive strip or its protective strip, and when pressure is applied with the user's hand, which holds the handle 2 in the proximal area of the applicator, the front (i.e., distal) end section of the first bar 4 bends elastically and thus reversibly. As a result, its distal end with the contact edge 3 approaches the free distal end of the second bar 5 until both bars rest against each other with their distal ends (positive fit).

[0055] This form fit, which occurs through an appropriate selection of mechanical and geometric beam parameters when reaching (and exceeding) a predetermined optimal contact pressure (the value of which can be selected for the specific application between 0.15 and 1.0 MPa), is in Fig. 2A shown with dashed lines. In Fig. 1 it is not shown.

[0056] With applicator 1 according to Fig. 1 This form fit is particularly easy to visually recognize for the user from above, because the flat upper surfaces 4a and 5a of both beams 4 and 5 facing the user are aligned with each other due to this form fit and thus form a substantially continuous flat surface (not shown). In order to further visualize the achievement or non-achievement of the optimal contact pressure for the user, the adapter 1 of the Fig. 1 additional markings 6 in the form of straight notches in the distal area of both beams 4 and 5, which only form an uninterrupted straight line with each other when the form closure occurs. In Fig. 1 Such a composite marking 6 can be seen on a composite long side 4b+5b of the handle 2 lying in the plane of the sheet, with further markings analogously on the Fig. 1 concealed opposite side of the handle 2 and / or on its combined upper side 4a+5a.

[0057] Furthermore, the applicator 1 in Fig. 1 on its upper side a flat recess 7 which enables the user to hold the handle 2 in a non-slip manner when carrying out the bonding process described below.

[0058] Fig. 2A shows a further example of an applicator 1 according to the above embodiment of the invention in vertical longitudinal section. This can in particular be the applicator 1 of the Fig. 1 act, whereby in Fig. 2A The first beam 4 below is simplified compared to the one shown in order to illustrate its elastic bending and to subsequently explain its chosen mechanical properties. Fig. 1 The direction of the contact force F is shown in Fig. 2A illustrated by a corresponding arrow, where dashed lines show the elastically deformed first beam when it touches the second beam with its distal end upon reaching the optimal contact pressure (positive locking).

[0059] Furthermore, Fig. 2B a top view of the applicator 1 of Fig. 2A from the user's perspective and in Fig. 2C its frontal view is shown, showing the entire length (lateral extension) of the contact edge 3 from two different viewing directions.

[0060] During a bonding process, the planar contact edge 3 of the applicator 1 of the Fig. 1 or Fig. 2A-2C Starting at a first end of the double-sided adhesive strip (not shown), the strip is pulled along the length of the adhesive strip to its second end. Applicator 1 and the protective paper of the double-sided adhesive strip or the part to be bonded are in contact, and a contact pressure of between 0.15 and 1.0 MPa is applied.

[0061] The planar contact edge 3 of the applicator 1 has a contact surface which, depending on the choice of its geometry, can be between 20 and 80 mm 2<. Fig. 2A The contact edge 3 is formed by an approximately circular, rounded profile with a suitable radius of curvature and has a length (lateral extension) of approximately 22 mm. With a contact area of 40 mm 2 and a contact force F of 8 N, a contact pressure of 0.2 MPa is achieved; with a contact area of 20 mm 2 and a contact force F of 20 N, a contact pressure of 1.0 MPa is achieved. The applicator 1 shows the user based on the deformation of the first beam 4 whether the contact force F is sufficient over the contact time. The necessary contact force F is defined by the beam parameters. The beam parameters are its thickness, width, length and Young's modulus of the rectangular substrate of the first beam 4, as well as the length of the unloaded or rigid second beam 5 and the transverse (in Fig. 1 and 2A vertical) distance between the distal ends of both beams 4 and 5.

[0062] Present (in Fig. 2A und 2B ), the first beam 4 can, for example, have a length of approximately 60 mm, a width (measured along the contact edge 3) of approximately 20 mm, and a vertical height of approximately 4 mm. The length of the rigid second beam 5 is approximately 50 mm in the example. The vertical distance to be overcome to achieve the optimum contact pressure can be approximately 5 mm with a modulus of elasticity of approximately 2346.5 N / mm2 (Young's modulus). The form fit of both beams 4 and 5 is thus achieved at a contact force F of approximately 20 N.

[0063] The application of pressure by means of a pulling movement in the longitudinal direction across the adhesive strip is important because with point-like pressure, such as that applied with fingers or thumbs, the contact surface is typically reduced by an order of magnitude and is therefore insufficient for the adhesive effect possible with the adhesive strip, as representative consumer tests have shown.

[0064] The very narrow (almost one-dimensionally rectilinear) contact surface of the contact edge 3 of the applicator 1, the pulling movement in the longitudinal direction of the adhesive strip, and the visual feedback as to whether the contact pressure is sufficient over the contact time, intuitively lead to the application of a sufficient contact force F during the entire contact time. In this way, the pressure-sensitive adhesive of the adhesive strip is brought into close contact with the surface of the adherends, and the physical interactions required for the development of the adhesive effect can therefore be fully established.

[0065] In this case, it can be particularly advantageous, particularly with regard to simple production, if the entire applicator 1 is manufactured in one piece (ie in one piece), for example by injection molding. For this purpose, the following are described with reference to Figuren 3A bis 6 Further embodiments of the applicator are described, which accordingly also do not contain any screws.

[0066] As in Fig. 3A bis 4B As shown, both bars 4 and 5 can be connected in the region of their proximal ends by an elastically flexible film hinge 8 made of the same material as the applicator 1.

[0067] This shows Fig. 3A-3B each in a perspective view a further development of the above first embodiment of the applicator 1, which makes it possible to secure the arrangement, fixation and orientation of both bars 4 and 5 parallel to each other for the bonding process by means of a clip closure. Fig. 3A-3B The clip closure is based on a snap-in of several snap-in hooks 9, which in this example are formed on the second bar 5, in recesses 10 formed on the first bar 4 to match this. Fig. 3A an assembled state of the applicator 1 intended for use, in which it is closed by the clip closure. Fig. 3B shows the open state in which the two beams 4 and 5 are only connected to each other by the elastically flexible film hinge 8 at their proximal ends. As can be seen in Fig. 3B As can also be seen, in this example the second beam 5 is provided with cavities on its side facing the first beam 4 in order to save weight and material. Furthermore, everything described above for the applicator 1 can be Fig. 1-2C The descriptions apply analogously, so that a repeated description of the corresponding elements is omitted here.

[0068] Fig. 4A und 4B show in a perspective view another example of the applicator 1, which differs from the further development of the Fig. 3A-3B only differs in the design of the clip closure. Unlike in Fig. 3A-3B Here, the locking hooks 9 are arranged in the first beam 4 and are designed as rounded projections. The recesses 10 are formed in the second beam 5 and, in contrast to Fig. 3A-3B hidden in the inner area of the beam, so that in the assembled (closed) state of the applicator 1 they are in Fig. 4A are not visible from the outside. For the rest, everything described above for applicator 1 can be Fig. 1-3B The descriptions apply analogously, so that a repeated description of the corresponding elements is omitted here.

[0069] Fig. 5 shows in a perspective view an alternative to a clip closure, in which both bars 4 and 5 are connected in the region of their proximal ends by a rigid web or longitudinal strut 12. The web or longitudinal strut 12 can be made of the same material as the one-piece applicator 1. It is designed to stabilize the bars 4 and 5 to one another in such a way that when the applicator 1 is pressed against it with its pressing edge 3, only the elastically flexible end section 13 of the first bar 4 can move relative to the second bar 5 until the positive connection is achieved by the elastically flexible end section 13 of the first bar 4 striking a free distal end 14 of the second bar 5. Otherwise, everything described above for the applicator 1 can be applied. Fig. 1-4B The descriptions apply analogously, so that a repeated description of the corresponding elements is omitted here.

[0070] Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an applicator 1 according to a second embodiment alternative to the above first embodiment, in which a first handle component 15, at its end opposite the contact edge 3, merges into a second handle component 16 which is not subjected to the contact pressure and which is designed to be rigid for holding by the user. At least at the connection point 17 between the two handle components 15 and 16, the first handle component 15 is designed to be elastically deformable in the sense described herein. The achievement of the optimal contact pressure is clearly visible from the outside in that the upper sides 15a and 16a of both handle components 15 and 16, which face the user during the bonding process, are arranged at an angle to one another at contact pressures below the optimal contact pressure (as in Fig. 6 shown) and only when the optimal contact pressure is reached (not shown) and preferably form a substantially continuously flat surface section with each other. In this example, the unloaded second handle component 16 has a raised portion 18 which, due to its illustrated design, enables the user to intuitively position the finger or thumb correctly when carrying out the bonding process. In particular, it serves to prevent the user from resting his or her finger or thumb on the bending beam or the first handle component 15. For this purpose, the raised portion 18 is arranged on the second handle component in front of the connection point 17. Furthermore, everything described above for the applicator 1 can be Fig. 1-5 The descriptions apply analogously, so that a repeated description of the corresponding elements is omitted here. Reference symbol

[0071] 1Applicator 2Handle 3Pressure edge 4First bar (with an elastically flexible distal end section) 5Second bar (unloaded and / or rigid) 4aTop side of the first bar facing the user 5aTop side of the second bar facing the user 4bLong side of the first bar 5bLong side of the second bar 6Marking 7Recess 8Film hinge 9Locking hook 10Recesses 12Bridge or longitudinal strut 13Elastically flexible end section of the first bar 14Free distal end of the second bar 15First handle component 16Unloaded second handle component 17Connection point 15a, 16aTop sides 18Elevation FPressure force

Claims

1. An applicator (1) for bonding two parts to be joined by means of a double-sidedly self-adhesive strip, comprising: a spatially compact handle (2) which is designed and dimensioned for holding the applicator (1) with one or both hands of a user when carrying out an adhesive bonding process, and a pressing edge (3) which is provided at a free distal end of the handle (2) and is designed for applying to a surface of the double-sidedly self-adhesive strip, which is protected by a non-adhesive protective strip, and for pressing same onto a surface of a part to be joined in order to bring about a required adhesive bonding of the adhesive strip to this part to be joined, characterised in that the applicator (1) has a feedback means integrated in the handle (2), the feedback means being designed such that the achievement of a predetermined optimal pressing force with the pressing edge (3) is clearly visually apparent to the user from the outside over the duration of the adhesive bonding process.

2. The applicator (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the applicator (1) has a flat overall structure, which results from the handle (2) with the pressing edge (3) formed at the free distal end of the handle, the handle (2) having a longitudinal extent which is perpendicular to a lateral extent of the pressing edge (3), and a transverse overall dimension of the applicator (1) being smaller, by a multiple, than its dimensions perpendicular hereto, which result by the lateral extent of the pressing edge (3) and the longitudinal extent of the handle (2).

3. The applicator (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the predetermined optimal pressing force lies in a range between 0.15 and 1.0 MPa.

4. The applicator (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the feedback means comprises a first handle part, which is elastically deformable in the pressing force region, which reaches at least as far as the optimal pressing force, and at the distal end of which the pressing edge (3) is provided and which deforms reversibly in dependence on the pressing force, in such a way that its deformation is clearly visually apparent to the user from the outside when the optimal pressing force is reached.

5. The applicator (1) according to claim 4, characterised in that the first handle part is arranged on a second handle part, not loaded by the pressing force, and is secured thereto, in such a way that the elastic deformation of the first handle part causes it to be form-fitted to and / or aligned with the second handle part in a manner clearly visually apparent from the outside, when the optimal pressing force is reached.

6. The applicator according to claim 5, characterised in that the form fit of the first handle part to the second handle part achievable reversibly by reaching the optimal pressing force is clearly visually apparent from the outside in that upper sides (4a, 5a) of both handle parts facing the user during the bonding process are arranged at an angle to one another at pressing forces below the optimal pressing force and only with this form fit do they align and form a substantially continuously flat surface portion with one another.

7. The applicator (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterised in that the first handle part is secured to a second handle part, which is not loaded by the pressing force; and the feedback means further comprises at least one marking (6) on the handle (2) of the applicator (1), which marking is visible from the outside and a first part of said marking is formed on the first handle part and a second part of the marking is formed on the second handle part, in such a way that both parts of the marking (6) are arranged offset to one another below the optimal pressing force and can be brought together in a clearly apparent manner only as a result of the elastic deformation of the first handle part when the predetermined optimal pressing force is reached.

8. The applicator (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterised in that the first handle part is formed as an elastically bendable distal end portion (13) of a first bar (4) and the second handle part is formed as a second bar (5); both bars (4, 5) being secured to one another in the region of their proximal ends, which is configured for holding of the applicator (1) by the user, whereas their free distal ends, in an unloaded state of the applicator (1), protrude from one another by a predetermined transverse distance, and the pressing edge (3) is formed only at the distal end of the first bar (4); and wherein, during the bonding process, the first bar (4) is to be arranged with its longitudinal extent facing the adhesive strip or protective strip thereof and is to be placed and pressed thereagainst only by the pressing edge (3), so that the second bar (5) is arranged on an upper side of the handle (2) remote from the adhesive strip or protective strip thereof and the transverse distance of the distal ends of both bars (4, 5) is reduced due to the elastic bending of the distal end portion (13) of the first bar (4) under application of a pressing force and disappears only once the optimal pressing force has been reached.

9. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the entire applicator (1) is manufactured in one piece (integrally), in particular by injection moulding.

10. The applicator (1) according to claim 8 and 9, characterised in that both bars (4, 5) are connected in the region of their proximal ends by an elastically bendable living hinge (8) made of the same material as the applicator (1).

11. The applicator (1) according to claim 10, characterised in that an arrangement, fixing and orientation, intended for the bonding process, of both bars (4, 5) parallel to one another is secured by a clip closure in an assembled state of the applicator (1) intended for use; wherein the clip closure is preferably based on a latching of one or more latching hooks (9), which are formed on one of the bars (4, 5), in recesses (10) and / or projections formed on the other bar (4, 5).

12. The applicator (1) according to claim 10 or 11, characterised in that one or both bars (4, 5) have cavities in their sides facing one another during the bonding process, said cavities lying inside the handle (2) in an assembled state of the applicator (1).

13. The applicator (1) according to claim 8 and 9, characterised in that both bars (4, 5), in the region of their proximal ends, are connected to one another by a rigid bar or longitudinal strut (12) made of the same material as the applicator (1), which stabilises them against one another in such a way that, as the applicator (1) is pressed on by its pressing edge (3) only the elastically flexible end portion (13) of the first bar (4) can move with respect to the second bar (5), until the form fit is achieved in such a way that the elastically bendable end portion of the first bar (4) contacts a free distal end (14) of the second bar (5).

14. The applicator (1) according to claim 5 and 9, characterised in that the first handle part (15) transitions, at its end opposite the pressing edge (3), into a second handle part (16), which is not loaded by the pressing force and is formed rigidly for holding by the user; the fact of the optimal pressing force having been reached being clearly visually apparent from the outside in that upper sides (15a, 16a) of both handle parts facing the user during the bonding process are arranged at an angle to one another at pressing forces below the optimal pressing force and only when the optimal pressing force has been reached do they align and preferably form a substantially continuously flat surface portion with one another.

15. The applicator (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the feedback means has an elastic spring element, which is integrated in the handle (2) and which, depending on the pressing force with which the applicator (1) is pressed with its pressing edge (3) against a surface, deforms reversibly in such a way that the effect of this deformation on the outer form of the handle (2) is clearly visually apparent to the user from the outside at the optimal pressing force.

16. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the pressing edge (3) is formed in a straight line or in a planar manner.

17. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the applicator (1) comprises a pressing roll, which is mounted rotatably at the distal end of the handle (2) and which is designed to be placed and pressed against the adhesive strip or protective strip thereof and to be rotated as the applicator (1) is pulled at its handle (2) along the adhesive strip, so that the portion of the roll surface that bears against the adhesive strip or protective strip thereof forms the pressing edge (3).

18. An assembly kit comprising: a double-sidedly self-adhesive strip, which is designed for securing two parts to be joined to one another by adhesive bonding, in that its surface is formed on both sides by an adhesive layer which is protected outwardly in each case by a removable, non-adhesive protective strip; and an applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the predetermined optimal pressing force, the state of this having been reached being clearly visually apparent to the user by the feedback means of the applicator (1), is a sufficient pressing force for forming the adhesive effect of the adhesive of the adhesive strip for bonding of the latter to the respective part to be joined.

19. The assembly kit according to claim 18, characterised in that the pressing edge (3) of the applicator (1) is geometrically complementary to the surface of the adhesive strip or one of the parts to be joined, in such a way that the pressing edge (3) can be pressed all at once uniformly with the predetermined pressing force against an overall surface, to be bonded, of the adhesive strip and the associated part to be joined arranged therebeneath, or in such a way that the pressing edge (3), by the pulling in a straight direction along the surface of the adhesive strip to be bonded and the associated part to be joined arranged therebeneath, can press these substantially over the entire area uniformly with the predetermined pressing force.

20. A method for bonding two parts to be joined by means of a double-sidedly self-adhesive strip using an assembly kit according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the adhesive strip has a first strip end and an opposite second strip end with an intermediate longitudinal extent, the area of which corresponds to the surfaces to be bonded to one another of the two parts to be joined; said method comprising the steps of: removing the protective strip from a first surface of the adhesive strip and then placing this surface against said surface of a first part to be joined; placing the pressing edge (3) of the applicator (1) on the first strip end of the adhesive strip on the second surface thereof, which is remote from the first part to be joined and is protected with a non-adhesive protective strip; pulling the applicator (1) starting at the first strip end of the adhesive strip along its longitudinal extent as far as its second strip end, the pressing edge (3) of the applicator (1), when pulled, being pressed uninterruptedly at least with the predetermined pressing force against the adhesive strip and the first part to be joined arranged therebeneath; and subsequently removing the second protective strip and bonding the second surface of the adhesive strip to the second part to be joined.

Images