Clinching connection

Abstract

Described is a clinching connection for connecting components (1, 2) resting flat against one another, at least in the area of a connection region, of which a first component (1) has a positive connector structure (3) protruding relative to the adjacent component portions and the second component (2) has an aperture (10) as negative connector structure, which negative connector structure, for joining of the two components (1), is passed through at least by the portion or portions of the positive connector structure (3) of the first component (1) necessary for form-fit locking of the two components (1), wherein at least one of the two connector structures (3) comprises at least one rib-like, plastically deformable locking element (4, 4.1) with a locking portion (5, 5.1), which is connected to the rest of the parts of this component by at least two ribs (6, 6.1), wherein the at least one locking portion (5, 5.1), prior to a joining process, is arranged in a first position at a first distance from an abutment and, after the joining process and the resultant plastic deformation, is arranged in a second position at a second distance from the abutment, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance, and wherein the at least one locking element (4, 4.1) in the second position engages the other component (2) from behind, at least in part. The invention also relates to a cable tray segment equipped with means for forming such a clinching connection.

Description

[0001] Clinching connection

[0002] The invention relates to a clinching connection for connecting components that lie flat against one another at least in the region of their connection area.

[0003] Clinching joints are used to join two components without additives such as adhesives, and also without the introduction of heat, as is necessary to create a material-tight connection. The components joined with a clinching joint are positively connected, at least in one direction. A typical clinching joint is a clinch connection. In this case, the two adjacent components are formed in their joining area by a punch acting against a die. Both components are deep-drawn into the die by the punch. The formed material of the component closer to the punch then engages behind the material of the component closer to the die as a result of the forming process.Such a connection creates a circumferential positive connection that acts both in the plane of the two components and transversely to them. Such clinching connections have a wide range of applications. However, the use of an appropriate tool, typically a press tool, is required to create such a clinching connection. Furthermore, sufficient assembly space must be available to accommodate such a press or other tool. Such a clinching connection cannot be removed without destruction.

[0004] Based on this discussed prior art, the invention is based on the object of proposing a clinching connection that can be created without a complex press or other tool, as well as in confined spaces or at assembly positions where such a tool cannot be used. This object is achieved according to the invention by a clinching connection for connecting components that lie flat against one another at least in the region of a connection area, of which a first component has a positive connector structure that protrudes from the adjacent component sections, and the second component has an opening as a negative connector structure, which negative connector structure for joining the two components is penetrated at least by the section(s) of the positive connector structure of the first component that are required for a positive locking of the two components.wherein at least one of the two connector structures comprises at least one web-like, plastically deformable locking element with a locking portion that is connected to the remaining parts of this component by at least two webs, wherein the at least one locking portion is arranged in a first position at a first distance from an abutment prior to joining and, after joining and the resulting plastic deformation of the same, in a second position at a second distance from the abutment, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance, and wherein the at least one locking element at least partially engages behind the other component in the second position.

[0005] In this clinching connection, in contrast to the previously known clinching connection described at the outset, only the at least one preformed locking element of one component needs to be reshaped. The second component has a component section which, in the locked position of the clinching connection, engages behind the first component at least from a section of the locking element. The at least one locking element can, as provided in a first exemplary embodiment, be the positive connector structure or part thereof. According to another exemplary embodiment, the at least one locking element is part of the negative connector structure and delimits one side of an opening constituting the negative connector structure. Thus, in such a configuration, the locking element forms an edge of the negative connector structure provided as an opening.In such a configuration, the at least one locking element can be arranged in the plane or the profile of the surface of the connecting region of this component. The positive structure of the other component is then typically provided by a strip-shaped web protruding from the plane of the connecting region of this component. In the second position of the at least one locking element, it engages behind the projected web of the other component. In such a configuration, both the web providing the undercut for a locking element and the locking element itself can be projected from the plane of the respective component. Each component then has a positive connector structure for each locking element and, adjacent to this, an opening as a negative connection structure for receiving the positive connector structure of the other component.

[0006] In both embodiments, the positive connector structure is already preformed, so that the force required to lock the clinching connection is only required to adjust the locking element(s). This distinguishes this clinching connection from a conventional clinching connection.

[0007] Regardless of the design of the clinching connection, such a locking element is designed in the form of a web or in the manner of a material strip and comprises a locking section and at least two webs formed thereon, with which such a locking section is connected to the remaining components of the component carrying the locking element(s). The webs are preferably connected to the locking section opposite one another with respect to the latter, typically formed thereon. At least a part of the locking section of each locking element is located in a plane behind the surface of the second component facing away from the first component when the connecting element is penetrated by the negative connector structure.To form the joint, the at least one locking element is adjustable by plastic deformation, typically of its webs or sections thereof, relative to an abutment. In a first position—the component assembly position—the locking section is located at a first distance from an abutment. To create the joint, the at least one locking element is moved away from the abutment in the region of its locking section, increasing the distance therefrom, thus spreading the abutment and the locking section relative to one another, so that the locking section of each locking element partially engages behind the surface of the second component facing away from the other component.As a result of this spreading process performed for joining, the distance between the locking portion of the locking element in the second position—the locking position—is greater than in the component assembly position. Such a clinching connection is positively locking, at least in the transverse direction of the plane of the adjoining components, due to the engagement of at least parts of the locking portion.Since the webs are connected to the remaining parts of the first component, in a configuration in which the locking section of such a locking element is exposed relative to the plane of the connecting region of the component carrying this locking element, not only is a part of the locking section introduced into the undercut created by the negative connector structure of the second component, but these parts of the locking section are also moved toward the surface of the second component facing away from the first component. The two connector structures are typically designed such that after joining, i.e., after the locking sections are spread apart, both components are positively connected to one another transversely to the plane of their connecting sections.Typically, due to the interlocking arrangement of the positive connector structure, a positive connection is also present in the plane of the two adjacent components, at least in the transverse direction to the longitudinal extension of the at least one locking element. This clinching connection also provides a positive connection between the two components in the transverse direction.

[0008] When designing such a clinching connection with only one locking element, the abutment can be formed by a strip of material that extends, for example, parallel to the locking element as part of the first component. A design in which the abutment is provided by an edge of the opening in the second component is also entirely conceivable. When designing the clinching connection with a positive connector structure with multiple locking elements, for example, two locking elements, each locking element represents the abutment for the plastic deformation of the other locking element.

[0009] If two locking elements are used as positive connector structures, they typically run parallel to each other. The joining connection spreads them apart, as described above. When more than two locking elements are used, the locking section is connected to the remaining components of the first component via webs arranged at an angle to each other in the plane of the first component. These are also moved away from each other to effect the joining, thus spreading them apart. This can also be realized, for example, with three or four locking elements, although only a single joining process is required to create the clinching connection.

[0010] It goes without saying that one or more additional components may be interposed between the two components described above.

[0011] The spreading of the locking elements in the area of ​​their locking sections, due to the associated plastic deformation of the webs, simultaneously leads to a centering of the positive connector structure formed by the locking elements within the opening of the second component. With appropriate dimensioning of the clear width of the opening as a complementary negative connector structure of the second component in the direction of the adjustment movement of the locking sections, the two components are also free of play in the adjustment direction of the locking sections when the narrow sides of the webs of the locking sections facing away from each other are pressed against the material of the second component enclosing the opening. Another advantage of the clinching connection is that the locking elements can be adjusted counter to the adjustment direction in the event that the clinching connection is to be released.The webs connecting a locking section to the other parts of the first component are several times larger in the adjustment direction than in the transverse direction, thus designed like a strip of material. The adjustment movement of the locking sections thus occurs in the plane of the webs, so that even with webs that are relatively thin transversely to the adjustment direction, sufficient material is plastically deformed to provide the necessary retaining forces. The width of these webs, and thus their extension in the adjustment direction, is dimensioned such that adjusting the locking sections to lock such a clinching connection using an appropriate tool, such as a flat-head screwdriver, requires some force. The webs are designed accordingly wide in the adjustment direction.In order to avoid having to dimension the clear width of the opening in the second component to be unnecessarily large, a preferred embodiment provides that the width of the webs in their adjustment direction corresponds to at least 25% of the width of the locking section of such a locking element.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the locking elements are made from a sheet metal strip, for example from an Fe metal strip, and are molded onto the remaining components of the first component. The positive connector structure is then made of the same material and is integral with the remaining components of the first component. With such a configuration, the locking elements can be easily separated or exposed from the remaining components of the first component by a punching process. Their shaping or stamping takes place by a subsequent stamping process or by a stamping process combined with the stamping. The term "stamping" is used in this context as a generic term for removing material from the first component in connection with the creation of the locking elements. Material removal can also be achieved in the same way by laser cutting.When the locking elements are constructed from a metal sheet strip, where the webs of the locking elements are plastically deformed transversely to their planar extension during the joining process, it is advantageous that a certain degree of work hardening occurs in the plastically deformed sections during this deformation. This counteracts any displacement of the locking element in the opposite direction.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the locking sections of the locking elements each have a positioning plate and a locking extension located on the sides of the positioning plate facing away from each other. The locking extension is that part of the locking section which, in the locking position of the locking elements, engages behind the surface of the second component facing away from the first component and, with a corresponding design of the clinching connection, acts against it under prestress. Advantageous with such a design is the concentration of the locking force on the relatively small surface of the locking extension. According to a preferred embodiment, such a locking extension is angled relative to the positioning plate, specifically facing away from the first component.In the second position of the locking elements, these locking extensions also provide a point of engagement for the jaws of pliers or another type of tool when the locking sections of the locking elements are to be returned to their first position to release the push-through connection. The distance between the ends of the locking extensions pointing away from one another is dimensioned such that the locking sections, with their first distance from one another and thus in their component assembly position, can be easily pushed through the opening in the second component. According to one embodiment of such a push-through connection, the extent of the webs connecting the locking sections to the remaining components of the first component corresponds to the extent of the adjusting plate in this direction.

[0014] A design of the locking elements is advantageous if the webs border the respective locking section at an angle. According to one embodiment, this angled connection is located in the plane of the respective locking section, as can be seen in a plan view, with the two webs of a locking section being connected to it at an angle in opposite directions to each other. Such a design of the locking elements is suitable if the locking sections have locking extensions. The orientation of the angled connection of the webs to the locking sections is typically provided in such a way that an adjustment movement of the locking sections occurs against the angled connection of the webs to the respective locking section.This means that when the locking sections are adjusted to join the two components, the webs are subjected to compressive stress on their narrow side facing the edge of the opening, so that greater work hardening occurs in this forming area. However, such a design is also advantageous in itself in order to offer the webs adjustment space so that they can be adjusted at least over a section of movement without being pressed directly against the material enclosing the opening in the second component, in order to bring about work hardening in this section of the webs as well. Another angular arrangement of the webs with regard to such a locking section is to arrange them at an angle to the plane of the locking section. With such a design, the locking section can be designed to be flat, which is particularly suitable if it has a locking extension.The angular connection of the two webs connecting such a locking section with the remaining parts of the first component serves the purpose of separating the locking section from the planar extension of the connecting area of ​​the first component, to such an extent that it can be pushed through the opening in the second component to effect the engagement required for the clinching connection.

[0015] In a design in which the first component carries two locking elements, these typically run parallel to one another. A tool gap is left between the two locking elements, into which tool a spreading tool can be inserted to adjust the locking sections. This can be the blade of a slotted screwdriver, for example. The use of such a tool has the advantage that spreading is possible, for example by a rotary movement, in particular in both directions (alternating / oscillating pivoting movement parallel to the edge of the slotted screwdriver), so that the locking sections of the locking elements are adjusted evenly. Another advantage here is the conical taper towards the tip of the tool, so that with increasing adjustment the screwdriver can be pressed deeper into such a tool gap.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the first component, with its positive connector structure formed by the locking elements, is an Fe metal sheet or a section thereof, or is made from such a plate. The first component may well be coated, for example, galvanized. The second component may be made from the same material. However, this is not required to form the clinching connection. Since plastic deformation is not performed on the second component with regard to creating the clinching connection, it may also be made from a material with which this is not possible, or at least not to a significant extent.For example, such a clinching connection can also be produced between a first component with corresponding plastic deformation properties of its locking element(s) and a second component made of plastic or another plastically non-deformable material.

[0017] In a preferred application example of such a clinching connection, its elements—the positive connector structure and the negative connector structure—are part of a cable tray segment for a cable tray system. The clinching connection is used to interlock two cable tray segments that are arranged overlapping one another at the end with a connecting section. To absorb the necessary shear and tensile forces, the connecting section of one cable tray segment has locking lugs extending in the transverse and longitudinal directions of the cable tray segment, which engage in complementary openings in the connecting section of the other cable tray segment. Such a clinching connection serves in addition to or instead of these locking connections.In this case, it can be provided that each connecting section has two clinching connecting elements arranged at a distance from one another in the transverse direction of the cable tray segment. According to one exemplary embodiment, a connecting section of such a cable tray segment carries a positive connector structure and, spaced therefrom in the transverse direction of the cable tray segment, a negative connector structure in the form of a corresponding opening. The complementary connecting section of a second cable tray segment is designed in a correspondingly complementary manner. It is also possible to arrange two similar clinching connecting elements on one connecting section, while the complementary connector structures are provided at the opposite end.By locking the two cable tray segments in the area where the connecting sections overlap, there is no risk of the connection being weakened or even completely destroyed, as is the case with conventional locking lug connections, even in the event of load-related deflection. For trays subject to particularly high tensile and / or shear loads, the connecting sections will be equipped with conventional locking lug connections in addition to the clinching connections described above.

[0018] The invention is explained below using an exemplary embodiment with reference to the accompanying figures. They show:

[0019] Fig. 1 : a perspective view of two components, each shown in a section, arranged to be connected with a clinching connection according to a first embodiment, in the manner of an exploded view,

[0020] Fig. 2 : a plan view of the lower component of Figure 1 ,

[0021] Fig. 3 : the two components put together for joining in a plan view, Fig. 4: a representation corresponding to that of Figure 3 with the joined clinching connection,

[0022] Fig. 5 : a section along the line A - B of Figure 4,

[0023] Fig. 6: two cable trays, designed to be connected to each other with clinching connections as described in the previous figures, in a perspective view before a connection in the area of ​​the mutually facing end sections,

[0024] Fig. 7 : a perspective view of two components, each shown in a section, arranged to be connected with a clinching connection according to a further embodiment of the invention, in the manner of an exploded view,

[0025] Fig. 8 : the two components of Figure 7 put together for joining in a perspective oblique view and

[0026] Fig. 9 : the two components of Figure 7 which are positively connected to one another by the locked clinching connection.

[0027] Figure 1 shows two components 1, 2 which are to be connected to one another by a clinch joint. The components 1, 2 are shown at a distance from one another in the manner of an exploded view. Components 1 and 2 are each cutouts of a cable tray segment, intended to create a cable tray system from a plurality of cable tray segments. Component 1 is part of a first cable tray segment. Component 2 is part of a second cable tray segment. The cutouts shown are cutouts from the area of ​​the base of the connecting sections of the two cable tray segments. The base of such a cable tray segment connects the two side rails. In the area of ​​their connecting sections, the two cable tray segments are arranged overlapping one another.In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting section of the second cable tray segment—component 2—is inserted into the cable receiving volume of the connecting section of the first cable tray segment—component 1. The assembly direction runs transversely to the planar extension of the bases of the two cable tray segments, represented by components 1 and 2. Both cable tray segments are made of galvanized steel, a material commonly used for such components.

[0028] The component 1, as the part of the clinching connection assigned to it, has a positive connector structure 3. The connector structure 3 projects in the direction of the second component 2 from the upper side of the first component 1, which can be seen in Figure 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the positive connector structure 3 is formed by two locking elements 4, 4.1. The locking element 4 is designed in the manner of a strip and, in the illustrated embodiment, consists of a locking section 5 and two webs 6, 6.1 connecting the locking section 5 to the remaining components of the first component 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking section 5 is provided by a setting plate 7 and a locking extension 8. The latter is angled relative to the plane of the setting plate 7, specifically directed away from the plane of the first component 1. The webs 6, 6.1 border at an angle on the locking section 5, whereby the locking section 5 is located in a plane above the top side of the first component 1, which can be seen in Figure 1. The distance between the locking section 5 and the top side of the component 1 is greater than the material thickness of the second component 2 by a necessary movement play. As can be seen more clearly from the top view of Figure 2, the webs 6, 6.1 border the locking section 5, also at an angle in the plane of the locking section 5, wherein the webs 6, 6.1 are connected to the locking section 5 in opposite directions. The locking element 4.1 is constructed in the same way as the locking element 4, but mirror-symmetrical to the longitudinal extension of the locking element 4. The above statements therefore apply equally to the locking element 4.1. For this reason, the locking extensions 8, 8.1 on the mutually facing sides of the positioning plates 7, 7.1. Due to the previously described angular arrangement of the webs 6, 6.1 on the respective positioning plates 7, 7.1, a tool gap 9 is located between the latter. The narrow sides of the locking sections 5, 5.1 facing each other form tool engagement surfaces, which a tool used for the joining process engages. In this first position, the locking elements 4, 4.1 are arranged at a distance from each other. The distance is dimensioned to allow a joining tool, for example, the blade of a slotted screwdriver, to be inserted into them.

[0029] The locking elements 4, 4.1 are separated from the remaining area of ​​the component 1 by punching out material and then embossed into the raised shape shown in Figure 1 to form the positive connector structure 3.

[0030] Component 2 has a negative connector structure complementary to the positive connector structure 3. This is an opening 10. The contour geometry is adapted to the positive connector structure 3 of component 1, specifically such that the locking elements 4, 4.1 forming the positive connector structure 3 engage in the opening 10 when the two components 1, 2 abut one another with their mutually facing flat sides. This adjacent positioning of the two components 1, 2 is shown in Figure 3. The clear width of the opening 10 of the component 2 in the transverse direction to the longitudinal extent of the two locking elements 4, 4.1 of the component 1 corresponds to the distance between the ends of the webs 6, 6.1 pointing away from each other in their connection to the other components of the component 1. It can also be clearly seen in this figure that the openings formed by the locking extensions 8, 8.1 is also not greater than the clear width of the opening 10 in this direction. Therefore, the two components 1, 2 can be brought into the position shown in Figure 3 by an assembly movement carried out transversely to the extension of their plane. The inclination of the webs 6, 6.1 from the connector section to the plane of the first component 1 has a positive effect here, so that self-detection and positioning of the two components 1, 2 is achieved in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the locking elements 4, 4.1 during such an assembly process. In the position of the two components 1, 2 relative to one another shown in Figure 3, the locking sections 5, 5.1 of the two locking elements 4, 4.1 are located behind the surface of the component 2 facing away from the component 1.To join and thus create the clinching connection between the two components 1, 2, the tip of the blade 11 of a slotted screwdriver, for example, is used as a joining tool. Such a blade 11 inserted into the tool gap 9 is identified in the cross-section in Figure 3 with the reference number 11. If the blade 11 inserted into the tool gap 9 is rotated, the two locking sections 5, 5.1 are moved away from each other in the area of ​​their locking sections 5, 5.1, as indicated by the block arrows. The distance between the two locking elements 4, 4.1 is therefore increased. To achieve uniform adjustment, the blade 11 is rotated alternately in both directions parallel to the tip of the blade, as indicated by the arrows in Figure 3. As a result of this adjustment, the locking extensions 8, 8.1 are moved over the edge of the opening 10. The adjustment movement of the locking sections 5, 5.1 is accompanied by a plastic deformation of the webs 6, 6.1. A spreading movement can also be achieved using such a screwdriver by appropriate leveraging. Depending on the force required, one, the other, or both movements will be performed to achieve the desired adjustment with the associated plastic deformation. This spreading movement of the two locking elements 4, 4.1 is accompanied by a movement component directed towards the surface of component 2 in the area of ​​the locking extensions 8, 8.1. Once the joining process is complete, the locking extensions 8, 8.1 project over the edge of the opening 10 in component 2 and act with a certain preload force against the surface of this component 2. The two components 1, 2 are then positively connected to one another as a result of the clinching connection, free of play in the transverse direction to the adjustment movement of the locking elements 4, 4.1 and in the transverse direction to the planes of the components 1, 2. The positive locking is free of play in the transverse direction to the adjustment direction of the locking elements 4, 4.1, since the narrow sides of the webs 6, 6.1 facing the wall of the opening 10 abut against it as a result of the joining connection. The work hardening caused by the forming process in the webs 6, 6.1 prevents any significant relaxation of the material.

[0031] Figure 5 shows a cross-section of the clinching joint, with the individual planes—plane of component 1, plane of component 2, and plane of the adjusting plates 7, 7.1—slightly offset from each other. The overlap of the locking projections 8, 8.1 over the edge of the opening 10 is clearly visible.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting sections of the cable tray segments additionally have notches, which create an additional, particularly resilient positive connection in the longitudinal and transverse directions of the tray extension. To form these notches, two locking lugs 12, 13 are embossed into component 1 in the direction of the second component 2. Complementing these notches, component 2 has two openings 14, 15. The virtually play-free positive connection between the two components 1, 2, acting transversely to the locking lugs 12, 13, is evident from the illustration in Figure 3.

[0033] In the event that the clinching connection is to be opened, which is sometimes necessary with interconnected cable trays, for example when a branch is to be installed in an existing system, the clinching connection can be easily opened by placing the two ends of the locking extensions 8, 8.1 pointing away from each other between the jaws of a pair of pliers and moving them out of the undercut by actuating the pliers to reduce the distance between the locking sections 5, 5.1.

[0034] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of two cable tray segments 16, 16.1, each only in the area of ​​a section of the mutually facing ends. The cable tray segments 16, 16.1 can be connected to one another along their longitudinal extent. For this purpose, each cable tray segment 16, 16.1 has an end-side connecting section 17, 17.1. The base 18 of the connecting section 17, in conjunction with the clinching connections with which the two cable tray segments 16, 16.1 are to be connected, forms the first component, and the base 19 of the connecting section 17.1 represents the complementary second component. The base 18 of the connecting section 17 has two positive connector structures 3, as described in the previous figures. The locking elements of the two connector structures 3 are flared downwards, starting from the plane of the base 18.

[0035] At complementary positions, openings 10 are provided in the base 19 of the connecting section 17.1 as complementary connector structures. The two cable tray segments 16, 16.1 are assembled together by engaging the connecting section 17 with the connecting section 17.1 with an assembly movement that is performed at least in the vertical direction. Subsequently, the locking elements of the positive connector structures 3 are spread apart, as also described above. The two cable tray segments 16, 16.1 are then positively connected to one another, even counter to the previously described assembly direction.

[0036] Figure 7 shows two further components 1.1, 2.1, which are to be positively connected to one another by a clinching connection. Components 1.1, 2.1 are shown in Figure 7 in the manner of an exploded view with a vertical distance from one another. The components 1.1, 2.1 shown are each sections of a cable tray segment. Component 1.1 is part of a first cable tray segment. Component 2 is part of a second cable tray segment. The sections shown are in turn sections from the area of ​​the base of the connecting sections of the two cable tray segments.

[0037] The component 1.1, as the part of the clinching connection assigned to it, has two positive connector structures 3.1, 3.2. These can also be referred to as a single connector structure. The two connector structures 3.1, 3.2 protrude in the direction of the second component 2.1 from the plane of the connection area of ​​the first component 1.1. In the illustrated embodiment, the positive connector structures 3.1, 3.2 are provided by two strip-shaped webs 20, 20.1. The webs 20, 20.1 comprise a web plate 21, 21.1 forming their apex. The webs 20, 20.1 or the web plates

[0038] 21, 21.1 are spaced apart from each other. The webs 20, 20.1 connect the longitudinal sides of a recess 22 in the component 1.1. The webs 20, 20.1 are also spaced apart from the transverse sides of the recess 22.

[0039] The component 2.1 has two openings 10.1, 10.2 as negative connector structures. These negative connector structures with their openings 10.1, 10.2 are separated from one another by a slot-like opening 23. Both openings 10.1, 10.2 are delimited on adjacent edge sides by a locking element 4.2, 4.3. The locking elements 4.2, 4.3 are essentially constructed like the locking elements 4, 4.1 of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7, with the exception that the webs 6.2, 6.3 connecting the locking sections 5.2, 5.3 to the remaining components of this component 2.1 are not angled relative to the plane of the component 2.1. For clarity, these webs 6.2, 6.3 are only identified on the locking element 4.2. Therefore, in this embodiment, the locking elements 4.2, 4.3 are located in the plane of component 2.1. Therefore, the provisions for the locking elements 4, 4.1 The remaining statements made apply equally to the locking elements 4.2, 4.3.

[0040] The web plates 21, 21.1 of component 1.1 are projected as positive connector structures from the plane of this component 1.1 to such an extent that their web plates 21, 21.1 can be engaged behind by the locking extensions 8.2, 8.3 of the locking elements 4.2, 4.3. In the illustrated embodiment, the web plates 21, 21.1 have a bevel 24, 24.1 on their mutually facing sides, through which the edge of the web plates 21, 21.1 leading into the undercut is broken. In this exemplary embodiment, the projection of the web plates 21, 21.1 from the plane of component 1.1 is only provided to the extent that, when the locking elements 4.2, 4.3 are adjusted to lock the clinching connection, their locking extensions 8.2, 8.3 strike such an adjusting bevel 24, 24.1, thus achieving a play-free positive connection transversely to the plane of the two components 1.1, 2.1. Figure 8 shows the two components 1.1, 2.1 in its component assembly position. The web plates 21, 21.1, which in the illustration shown are downwardly protruding on component 1.1, engage in the opening 10.1 or 10.2. The opening 23 located between the two locking elements 4.2, 4.3 forms a tool engagement surface with the narrow sides of the locking sections 5.2, 5.3 facing one another, so that the two locking elements 4.2, 4.3 can be spread apart from one another, for example with the blade of a slotted screwdriver, in the same way as was presented for the embodiment of Figures 1 to 6. During this spreading process, the locking extensions 8.2, 8.3 are pushed onto the adjusting bevels 24, 24.1, thus creating the desired positive connection between the two components 1.1, 2.1. In the illustrated embodiment, during the adjustment of the two locking elements 4.2, 4.3, the locking extensions 8.2, 8.3 is prestressed in the transverse direction to the plane of the webs 20, 20.1, so that a play-free, positive connection between the two components 1.1, 2.1 has been established.

[0041] The invention is described using exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying figures. Without departing from the scope of the claims, numerous further possibilities for implementing the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art, without such further possibilities having to be explained in detail within the scope of these statements.

[0042] List of reference symbols

[0043] 1 , 1.1 Component

[0044] 2, 2.1 Component

[0045] 3, 3.1 , 3.2 Positive connector structure , 4.1 , .2, 4.3 Locking element , 5.1 , 5.2, 5.3 Locking section , 6.1 ; 6.2, 6.3 Web

[0046] 7, 7.1 Setting plate, 8.1, 8.2, 8.3 Locking extension

[0047] 9 Tool gap

[0048] 10 Breakthrough

[0049] 11 blade

[0050] 12 locking lug

[0051] 13 locking lug

[0052] 14 Breakthrough

[0053] 15 Breakthrough

[0054] 16, 16.1 Cable tray segment

[0055] 17, 17.1 Connecting section

[0056] 18 Floor

[0057] 19 Floor

[0058] 20, 20.1 Bridge

[0059] 21 , 21.2 Web plate

[0060] 22 recess

[0061] 23 Breakthrough

[0062] 24, 24.1 Setting slope

Claims

Claims: Cling joint for joining components (1, 2, 1.1, 2.1) that lie abut each other over a surface, at least in the area of ​​a joining region, of which a first component (1, 1.1) has a positive connector structure (3; 3.1, 3.2) projecting towards the adjacent component sections and the second component (2, 2.1) has an opening (10; 10.1, 10.2) as a negative connector structure, which negative connector structure for joining the two components (1, 2; 1.1, 2.1) is penetrated by at least the section(s) of the positive connector structure (3; 3.1, 3.2) of the first component (1, 1.1) required for a positive locking of the two components (1, 2; 1.1, 2.1), wherein at least one of the two connector structures (3; 10.1 , 10.2) at least one web-like, plastically deformable locking element (4, 4.1 ; 4.2, 4.3) with a locking section (5, 5.1 ; 5.2, 5.3), which is connected to the other parts of this component by at least two webs (6, 6.1 ; 6.2, 6.3), wherein the at least one locking section (5, 5.1 ; 5.2, 5.3) is arranged before joining in a first position with a first distance to an abutment and after joining and the resulting plastic deformation thereof in a second position with a second distance to the abutment, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance, and wherein the at least one locking element (4, 4.1 ;. 4.2, 4.3) in the second position at least partially engages behind the other component (2, 1.1). Cling joint according to claim 1, characterized in that the positive connector structure (3) is formed by the at least one locking element (4, 4.1) and this in its second position engages behind the surface of the other component (2) that points away from the component (1) carrying the at least one locking element (4, 4.1). Cling joint according to claim 1, characterized in that part of the negative connector structure is the at least one locking element (4.2, 4.3), wherein the negative connector structure is limited on one side by the locking element (4.2, 4.3). Cling joint according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in the second position the at least one locking element (4, 4.1; 4.2, 4.3) contacts the surface of the second component (2) facing away from the first component (1) in a section. Cling joint according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the webs (6, 6.1) connecting a locking section (5, 5.1 ; 5.2, 5.3) with the other components of the component (1 , 2.1 ) have a length several times greater in the adjustment direction of the locking section (5, 5.1 ; 5.2, 5.3) than in the transverse direction thereto.Cling joint according to claim 5, characterized in that the webs (6, 6.1) connecting a locking section (5, 5.1) to the other components of the component (1, 2.1) have an extension in the adjustment direction of the locking section (5, 5.1; 5.2, 5.3) that is at least 75% of the extension of the locking section (5, 5.1; 5.2, 5.3) in this direction. Cling joint according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the at least one locking element (4, 4.1; 4.2, 4.3) is designed as a sheet metal strip. Cling joint according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the locking section (5, 5.1 ; 5.2, 5.3) of the at least one locking element (4, 4.1 ) has an actuating plate (7, 7.1 ) and a locking extension (8, 8.1 ; 8.2, 8.3) which engages behind the other component (2, 1.1 ) in the second position of the locking element (4, 4.1 ; 4.2, 4.3 ). Cling joint according to claim 8, characterized in that the locking extension (8, 8.1) is angled away from the other component (2) relative to the plane of the adjusting plate (7, 7.1). Cling joint according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the extension of the webs (6, 6.1) in the adjustment direction of the locking section (5, 5.1; 5.2, 5.3) corresponds to the extension of the adjusting plate (7, 7.1) in this direction. Cling joint according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the locking section (5, 5.1 ) of the webs (6, ) connecting at least one locking element (4, 4.1 ; 4.2, 4.3) with the other components of component (1 ). 6.1) with respect to the longitudinal extent of the locking element (4, 4.1) in a top view, in their first position are integrally formed at opposite angles to each other on the locking section (5, 5.1; 5.2, 5.3). Cling joint according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the locking section (5, 5.1 ) of a locking section (4, 4.1 ) with the other components of this component (1 ) connecting webs (6, 6.1 ) at an angle to the plane of the respective locking section (5, 5.1 ) are arranged. Cling joint according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the connector structure (3) with the at least one locking element has at least two web-like, plastically deformable locking elements (4.1 , 4) and the locking section (5, 5.1 ) of one locking element (4, 4.1 ) forms the abutment for the plastic deformation of another locking element (4, 4.1 ). Cling joint according to claim 13, characterized in that the two locking elements (4, 4.1; 4.2, 4.3) each have a tool engagement surface on their facing sides or these sides can be used as such, and a gap (9, 23) for inserting a tool, in particular the tip of the blade (11) of a slotted screwdriver, is provided between the two tool engagement surfaces. Cling joint according to claim 3, characterized in that one component (1.1) has two positive connector structures (3.1, 3.2) arranged at a distance from each other, each provided by a strip-shaped web (20, 20.1) connecting two opposite sides of a recess (22), and that the negative connector structure has two locking elements (4.2, 4.3) for fitting into the gap between the two positive connector structures (3.1, 3.2).3) comprising, wherein the depth of the positive connector structures (3.1, 3.2) is designed so that, in the second position of the locking elements (4.2, 4.3), they are engaged by the respective component of the locking elements (4.2, 4.3) responsible for a positive fit. Cling joint according to claim 15, characterized in that the webs (20, 20.1) serving as positive connector structures are provided with a chamfer (24, 24.1) on their side providing the undercut and facing a locking element (4.2, 4.3). Cling joint according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the clear width of the opening (10) of the second component (2) in the transverse direction to the adjustment direction of the locking elements (4, 4.1 ) corresponds to the distance between the mutually pointing sides of the webs (6, 6.1 ) in the area of ​​their connection to the first component (1 ).

18. Cling joint according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the first component (1 , 1.1 ) is a coated Fe metal sheet.

19. Cling joint according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the second component (2, 2.1 ) is a coated Fe metal sheet.

20. Cling joint according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that both components (1, 2) are cable tray segments (16, 16.1 ) of a cable tray system.

21. Cable tray segment of a cable tray system, equipped with means for forming at least one clinch connection according to one of claims 1 to 19 with a further cable tray segment, characterized in that each cable tray segment (16, 16.1 ) in its end-side connection sections (17, 17.1 ), with which this cable tray segment (16) can be connected to another cable tray segment (16.1 ) in an overlapping manner, has at least two positive connector structures (3; 3.1 , 3.2) spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction of the cable tray segment (16).

22. Cable tray segment of a cable tray system, equipped with means for forming at least one clinch connection according to one of claims 1 to 19 with a further cable tray segment, characterized in that each cable tray segment has, in its end-side connection sections, with which this cable tray segment can be connected overlappingly to a further cable tray segment, a positive connector structure and a perforation as a negative connector structure spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction of the cable tray segment, wherein the two different connector structures are arranged in a reversed manner at the two ends of the cable tray segment.

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