Profile connector and substructure

Abstract

Profile connector, which can be connected to a first profile and a second profile, in particular a substructure for wall or roof elements of a building, comprising: a first section with an associated first melting point, a second section with an associated second melting point which is higher than the first melting point, a movable locking element; at least one first fastening means with which the profile connector can be fastened to the first profile, wherein the first section is configured to couple an end face of the second profile to the first profile at a distance from each other; and wherein the second section has at least one load-bearing section for receiving a load acting from the second profile on the profile connector; wherein the load acts substantially in a vertical direction;and wherein the second section has a locking element receiving section which is configured to receive the locking element at least partially, wherein the received locking element is displaceable in an output arrangement towards the first profile in the locking element receiving section and wherein the received locking element is not displaceable away from the first profile in the output arrangement.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a profile connector for connecting two profiles of a substructure for wall or roof elements of a building, as well as to said substructure.

[0002] Exterior facades and roofs of buildings typically comprise a load-bearing substructure on which a large number of infill elements, such as facade panels, are arranged. The substructure's primary function is to absorb loads from the dead weight of the infill elements as well as the environmental influences acting on them, and to transfer these loads to adjacent load-bearing building structures. In the event of a fire, the substructure must have sufficient residual load-bearing capacity to ensure that the exterior facade or the area of ​​a roof clad with infill elements can continue to support the infill elements even in the event of a fire. Furthermore, in the event of a fire, deformation of the substructure due to thermal expansion of individual or multiple profiles must be reduced to such an extent that the positional stability of the individual infill elements is still guaranteed.

[0003] Load-dissipating profiles of the substructure are mounted on the adjacent load-bearing building structures by means of fixed and loose bearings in such a way that thermal linear expansion of these profiles, both as a result of everyday environmental temperature fluctuations and as a result of a fire, does not lead to any significant deformation of the substructure.

[0004] However, the linear expansion of the profiles connected to the load-dissipating profiles, which are usually connected to the load-dissipating profiles via profile connectors, is problematic.

[0005] In the current state of the art, the connection of a load-dissipating profile to an attached profile is achieved using a substantially single-piece profile connector. Multi-part connectors are also known, which are fixed to the profiles using screw connections. However, such connections do not allow for longitudinal expansion in the event of a fire.

[0006] Since the thermal expansion of profiles made of steel, for example, can be up to twenty times greater in a fire due to the high temperatures encountered, compared to normal conditions (i.e., non-fire conditions), significant deformations can occur within conventional substructures due to the thermal expansion of the profiles connected to the load-dissipating profiles. Another problem is that the filler elements arranged on the profiles often exhibit lower thermal expansion in a fire than the profiles themselves. Consequently, corresponding differences in thermal expansion must be taken into account when designing and constructing the substructure. Otherwise, the filler elements could no longer be held by the substructure in the event of a fire.Due to the different thermal expansion of the profiles compared to the filler elements, the length of the individual profiles to be connected is limited. Furthermore, the maximum achievable range of motion of the floating bearings on the load-bearing building structure also limits the overall size of the structure.

[0007] Furthermore, the state of the art does not offer a connection option which, with simple assembly, can compensate for a linear expansion in the event of a fire and at the same time can absorb a tensile force acting from the connected profile on the load-dissipating profile, whereby the profile connection is impaired during and after a fire.

[0008] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a profile connector for connecting a first profile and a second profile of a substructure for wall or roof elements as well as a substructure for wall or roof elements, which solves the above-mentioned problems.

[0009] The problem is solved by a profile connector and a substructure for wall or roof elements of a building with the features of the respective independent claim. Further developments and advantageous embodiments are specified in the respective dependent claims.

[0010] A first aspect of the invention relates to a profile connector which can be connected to a first profile and a second profile, in particular a substructure for wall or roof elements of a building, comprising: a first section with an associated first melting point, a second section with an associated second melting point which is greater than the first melting point, a displaceable locking element; at least one first fastening means with which the profile connector can be fastened to the first profile, wherein the first section is configured to couple an end face of the second profile to the first profile at a distance from one another; and wherein the second section has at least one load-receiving section for receiving a load acting on the profile connector from the second profile; wherein the load acts substantially in the vertical direction;and wherein the second section has a locking element receiving section which is configured to at least partially receive the locking element, wherein the received locking element is displaceable in an initial arrangement, in particular translationally, towards the first profile in the locking element receiving section and wherein the received locking element is not displaceable, in particular translationally, away from the first profile in the initial arrangement;

[0011] The profile connector is designed to connect a first profile and a second profile to one another. Preferably, the first profile is a load-dissipating profile, and the second profile can be connected to the first profile at its end face and substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension of the first profile by the profile connector. In this case, a front face of the second profile is preferably oriented substantially parallel to a side surface of the first profile. The applied load acts substantially vertically, so that when the profiles are arranged substantially horizontally, the applied load is oriented substantially perpendicular to a direction of extension of the first profile and substantially parallel to a plane spanned by the front face of the second profile.In contrast, when the first profile is aligned vertically, the load acts essentially parallel to a plane spanned by the end face of the second profile and essentially parallel to the direction of extension of the first profile.

[0012] The at least one fastening means is preferably designed to fasten the first section and the second section to the first profile and preferably relative to one another. The first section and the second section can in particular be fastened to the first profile substantially stacked and / or at least partially overlapping, preferably with aligned holes in which a fastening means can be arranged. The at least one fastening means can be designed as a screw which can be screwed into a thread in the first profile. This allows the fastening to be released again in a simple manner. The fastening means can additionally or alternatively be formed by a material-to-material connection, in particular a welded connection, or by a plug-in connection.

[0013] The first section of the profile connector is preferably configured to melt at least in part upon exposure to a temperature such as that encountered in a fire, so that a spacing between the first profile and the second profile, ensured by the first section, is eliminated or at least reduced. This allows a region of the second profile connected to the profile connector to approach the first profile, for example, due to a longitudinal expansion in the direction of extension caused by heating of the second profile, without forces harmful to the first profile being transmitted to it.

[0014] Preferably, the locking element is positioned in an initial configuration when the second profile is connected and the second section is intact, i.e., not during or after a fire. In the initial configuration, the locking element is preferably configured to transfer a tensile force acting from the second profile in a direction away from the first profile to the profile connector. A tensile force acting from the second profile on the profile connector or the first profile in a horizontal direction can be caused by a bending load on the second profile, for example, when a vertical force acts on the second profile at a distance from the profile connector.

[0015] In other words, since the locking element receiving section blocks displacement of the locking element received in the locking element receiving section away from the first profile, this advantageously substantially prevents, or at least limits, the displacement of the second profile away from the first profile. The assembly of the profile connector is simplified because the locking element only needs to be inserted into the locking element receiving section.

[0016] As a result, the profile connector is advantageously designed to absorb tensile forces from the second profile and / or prevent the second profile from becoming uncoupled from the profile connector and the first profile, despite being easy to install, even during or after a fire. In particular, the profile connector ensures that superimposed loads, transverse loads, bending moments, and tensile forces can continue to be transferred from the second profile to the first profile, even in the event of a fire.

[0017] In particular, the locking element can be arranged in the initial arrangement in the locking element receiving section of the second section of the profile connector such that it rests against a locking section of the locking element receiving section and / or is positioned at a small distance, for example less than 3 mm, in particular less than 1 mm, from the locking section. The locking section can be, for example, a locking wall or a locking edge, which can in particular be adjacent to the load-receiving section. The locking element can be designed without a thread and / or be formed as a sheet metal part, in particular as a small plate, and / or be inserted into the locking element receiving section in a substantially translational manner.

[0018] Preferably, the locking element receiving section of the second section is designed such that a locking element located and / or positioned therein in the initial arrangement can be displaced substantially translationally in the direction of the first profile if no second profile is connected to the profile connector or if a second profile is connected to the profile connector and the first section is melted at least in regions such that the first section does not block or prevent an approximate displacement of the second profile to the first profile.

[0019] In other words, the displaceability of the locking element received in the locking element receiving section enables a displacement of the end face of the second profile toward the first profile, oriented in the extension direction of the second profile, with at least partial melting of the first section. In this process, the locking element is also displaced from the initial arrangement toward the first profile.

[0020] The profile connector can have at least one transverse load-bearing section for absorbing a transverse load acting on the profile connector from the second profile, wherein the transverse load acts substantially parallel to the extension direction of the first profile when the profiles are arranged substantially horizontally. Due to the transverse load-bearing section, the profile connector is advantageously configured to substantially prevent, or at least limit, a relative displacement of the second profile and the first profile relative to one another in the horizontal direction.

[0021] In the case of a vertical orientation of the first profile, however, the transverse load can be oriented essentially either horizontally or vertically and transversely to the direction of extension of the second profile.

[0022] When the first profile is vertically aligned, the profile connector and the second profile can have an identical alignment as when the first profile is horizontally aligned. The transverse load-bearing section is configured to substantially prevent, or at least limit, a relative displacement of the second profile and the first profile in the horizontal direction.

[0023] Alternatively, when the first profile is vertically aligned, the profile connector and the second profile can have an alignment rotated by 90°, as with the horizontal alignment of the first profile. The transverse load-bearing section is configured to substantially prevent, or at least limit, a relative displacement of the second profile and the first profile relative to one another in the vertical direction. Accordingly, the transverse load-bearing section is configured to absorb the horizontally acting load, and the load-bearing section is configured to absorb a force acting substantially horizontally and orthogonally to the load.

[0024] Preferably, the transverse load-bearing section is designed such that it can absorb a transverse load from both sides, i.e., in two opposite directions, and transfer it to the first profile. The transverse load acts, in particular, orthogonally to the direction of extension of the second profile and the applied load.

[0025] Preferably, the transverse load-bearing section and the second profile form a positive connection in the transverse direction.

[0026] The locking element receiving section can be designed as a recess in or as a recess to the load receiving section. In particular, the locking element receiving section can be designed as an undercut, viewed in the direction of extension of the second profile, which has or forms a locking section that faces the first profile and against which the locking element is pressed when a tensile force is applied by the second profile. The load receiving section can be arranged substantially at a distal end of the profile connector or of the second section. The first section can be arranged substantially at a proximal end of the profile connector, at which it can be connected to the first profile. This configuration enables simple arrangement of the locking element in the locking element receiving section and advantageous force transmission.

[0027] The second section can be at least partially formed as a sheet metal part. This enables cost-effective production and / or a favorable weight-to-load ratio of the profile connector.

[0028] The second section and the transverse load-bearing section can be formed as separately manufactured components. This allows for improved accuracy and / or manufacturing tolerance of the respective sections, particularly if at least one of the sections is formed as a sheet metal part.

[0029] Preferably, the second section and the transverse load-bearing section are designed as separately manufactured components and can be coupled to one another, in particular by means of a plug-in connection, thereby enabling simple assembly of the profile connector. The plug-in connection is preferably designed such that it correctly positions the transverse load-bearing section relative to the second section and / or, when the second section is attached to the first profile, prevents the plug-in connection from becoming loose and / or the transverse load-bearing section from becoming uncoupled from the second section. Alternatively, the second section and the transverse load-bearing section can be glued and / or welded to one another.

[0030] Alternatively, the second section and the transverse load-bearing section can each be fastened to the first profile with their own fastening means and / or spaced apart from one another.

[0031] This is particularly advantageous when alignment of one section or both sections is required when attaching the profile connector to the first profile.

[0032] Alternatively, the transverse load-bearing section may be formed integrally with the second section.

[0033] The second section may alternatively be formed substantially as a milled part, in particular from a block comprising aluminum and / or steel, optionally integral with the transverse load-bearing section.

[0034] The second section of the profile connector can have two parallel load-bearing sections and is preferably formed as an integral sheet metal part. This allows the load-bearing capacity to be increased and the connection to be stabilized by the profile connector. Locking sections of the locking element receiving section can each be adjacent to the load-bearing sections.

[0035] The melting point associated with the first section may range from approximately 100°C to approximately 700°C. In particular, the first section may comprise or consist essentially of zinc, aluminum, and / or plastic.

[0036] The melting point associated with the second section may be at least about 600°C. In particular, the second section may comprise or consist essentially of metal, in particular steel or aluminum, and / or ceramic.

[0037] In other words, the profile connector for connecting profiles typically made of metal, in particular steel or aluminum, comprises the first section, which has a lower melting point than the profiles, and the second section, the melting point of which ensures that the second section remains substantially stable in the event of a fire.

[0038] This ensures that a connection formed by the profile connector between the first profile and the second profile is reliably maintained, even during and / or after a fire.

[0039] Preferably, the locking element and / or the transverse load-bearing section has an associated third melting point that is greater than the first melting point of the first section; and wherein the melting point associated with the locking element and / or the transverse load-bearing section is at least approximately 600°C and / or is substantially identical to the second melting point of the second section. The locking element and / or the transverse load-bearing section may comprise or consist essentially of steel or aluminum.

[0040] As a result, the blocking element and / or the transverse load-bearing section is designed to transfer a tensile force or a transverse load to the second section or to the first profile, even in the event of fire.

[0041] The first section of the profile connector can have a frame body that radially surrounds the second section, at least in part. In particular, the frame body can be substantially annular or square. The first section can at least partially frame the second section. Preferably, the frame body is adapted to the outer contour of the second profile and / or substantially corresponds to it. This can enable a uniform appearance and / or advantageous force dissipation from the second profile to the first profile.

[0042] The first section may be configured to space the first profile and the second profile in a range of about 3 mm to about 100 mm, preferably in a range of about 5 mm to about 20 mm, more preferably in a range of about 10 mm to about 15 mm.

[0043] It has been found that for typical profile lengths of up to 10 m, the specified ranges allow sufficient thermal linear expansion of profiles made of steel or aluminum without critical deformations occurring within the substructure.

[0044] Preferably, the frame body of the first section substantially completely bridges the spacing between the first profile and the second profile.

[0045] A further aspect of the invention relates to a substructure, in particular for wall or roof elements, for example for facade panels of a building, comprising a first profile and a second profile, wherein the profiles are connected to one another by means of a profile connector described in this application, preferably at right angles to one another.

[0046] A substructure designed in this way offers the advantage that thermal linear expansion of the second profile in the event of a fire does not lead to harmful stresses and deformations in the connection area of ​​the profiles. If a majority, preferably all, of the load-dissipating profiles are connected to the profiles to be connected using the profile connector according to the invention, it can be ensured that the substructure essentially retains its stability in the event of a fire.

[0047] Such a substructure is also particularly easy to manufacture and / or assemble. In other words, the profiles can be connected to each other particularly easily using the profile connector. Furthermore, the substructure can be ensured to have a homogeneous appearance, as individual connecting components, such as the profile connector and corresponding fasteners, can be arranged inside the hollow profiles.

[0048] In order to ensure the most homogeneous appearance of the substructure, the frame body of the profile connector is preferably essentially identical to an outer contour of the second profile.

[0049] Preferably, the locking element receiving section of the profile connector is arranged and / or oriented such that, when the first profile and the second profile are coupled by means of the profile connector, the locking element can be inserted from the outside into the locking element receiving section in the starting position. In particular, an access opening or insertion recess is formed in the second profile, which makes at least part of the locking element receiving section accessible for inserting the locking element into the starting position.

[0050] The second profile can have a stop surface that rests against the locking element and / or is supported on the locking element, in particular on the side of the locking element opposite the locking section of the locking element receiving section. A tensile force acting from the second profile can act on the locking element via the stop surface and be transmitted to the second section of the profile connector, thereby substantially preventing, or at least significantly reducing, a displacement of the second profile away from the first profile when the locking element is arranged in the starting position.

[0051] The first profile and the second profile can be designed as metal profiles, in particular made of steel or aluminum.

[0052] The first profile and / or the second profile can be designed as hollow profiles. Hollow profiles offer high load-bearing capacity while being relatively lightweight.

[0053] Alternatively, the hollow profiles can be designed as U- or I-profiles.

[0054] Preferably, an outer contour of the frame body of the first section is substantially identical to an outer contour of the second profile, so that the frame body substantially represents an extension of the second profile between the end face of the second profile and the first profile.

[0055] In the following, individual embodiments for achieving the object are described by way of example with reference to the figures. In some cases, the individual embodiments described have features that are not absolutely necessary to carry out the claimed subject matter, but which provide desired properties in certain applications. Thus, embodiments that do not have all the features of the embodiments described below are to be regarded as falling within the scope of the described technical teaching. Furthermore, to avoid unnecessary repetition, certain features are only mentioned in relation to individual embodiments described below. It is pointed out that the individual embodiments should therefore not only be considered in isolation, but also in conjunction with one another.Based on this overview, those skilled in the art will recognize that individual embodiments may also be modified by incorporating one or more features of other embodiments. It is noted that a systematic combination of the individual embodiments with one or more features described with reference to other embodiments may be desirable and useful and should therefore be considered and considered to be encompassed by the description. Short description of the drawings

[0056] Figure 1 shows an exemplary substructure with profiles connected by an exemplary profile connector; Figure 2 shows the substructure of the Figure 1 with only one profile; Figure 3 shows an exemplary profile connector; Figure 4 shows a second section and a locking element of the exemplary profile connector of the Figure 3; Figure 5 shows a view of an exemplary substructure in the extension direction of the second profile; Figure 6 shows a sectional view of the exemplary substructure of the Figure 5 ; Figures 7a-7c show an exemplary substructure with different length extensions of the second profile. Detailed description of the drawings

[0057] The Figure 1 shows an exemplary substructure 100 with profiles 1, 2 connected by an exemplary profile connector 10, wherein the profiles 1, 2 are aligned substantially perpendicular to each other. In this example, the exemplary profile connector 10 connects one end face of the second profile 2 to one side of the first profile 1.

[0058] When the substructure 100 shown is mounted on a horizontal flat roof, the first profile 1 and the second profile 2 are aligned substantially horizontally. The load Fa, which is caused in particular by gravity and acts substantially vertically, is orthogonal to an extension direction E1 of the first profile 1 and to an extension direction E2 of the second profile 2. When the substructure 100 shown is mounted on a vertical wall, the first profile 1 can in particular be aligned substantially vertically and the second profile 2 can be aligned substantially horizontally. The load Fa, which is caused in particular by gravity and acts substantially vertically, is oriented substantially parallel to the extension direction E1 of the first profile 1 and perpendicular to the extension direction E2 of the second profile 2.The profiles 1, 2 can also be aligned obliquely, for example as a substructure 100 of a pitched roof, whereby corresponding partial amounts of the load Fa act.

[0059] The Figure 2 shows the substructure 100 of the Figure 1 only with the first profile 1. The second profile 2 has been removed or is not yet connected to the profile connector 10.

[0060] The profile connector 10 is attached to the first profile 1 by means of one or more fastening means 14, for example, a screw connection and / or a material connection. The profile connector 10 comprises a first section 3 and a second section 4.

[0061] The first section 3 is configured and positioned such that a predetermined or predeterminable spacing is maintained between the first profile 1 and a connected second profile 2. For this purpose, the first section 3 can, for example, comprise a frame body 3a, which can be substantially circular or rectangular, and is arranged between an end face of the second profile 2 and the first profile 1. The frame body 3a preferably has a dimension in the extension direction E2 of the second profile 2 in order to create a spacing of approximately 3 mm to approximately 100 mm, for example 15 mm.

[0062] The second section 4 of the profile connector 10 is configured and positioned to enable force transmission between the first profile 1 and the second profile 2. In particular, the second section 4 has at least one load-absorbing section 5, which can absorb a load Fa, which in the example shown acts from the second profile 2 substantially orthogonal to the extension direction E1 of the first profile 1 and to the extension direction E2 of the second profile E2, and transfer it to the first profile 1.

[0063] The profile connector 10 preferably comprises at least one transverse load-bearing section 6, which is configured and positioned to absorb a transverse load Fq acting from the second profile 2 onto the first profile 1, which, in the example shown, acts substantially orthogonally to the applied load Fa and to the extension direction E2 of the second profile 2 and / or substantially parallel to the extension direction E1 of the first profile 1. The transverse load-bearing section 6 is preferably configured to absorb a transverse load Fq in both directions and to transfer it to the first profile 1.

[0064] The first section 3 of the profile connector 10 is intended not to maintain the distance between the profiles 1, 2 in the event of excessive heating and / or heating of the substructure 100, in particular of the second profile 2. Instead, it is desired that the first section 3, in particular its frame body 3a, melts at least in some areas, so that the second profile 2 can expand and displace toward the first profile 1 and / or the end face of the second profile 2 can approach the first profile 1 without damaging forces acting on the first profile 1.

[0065] The second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 of the profile connector 10 should remain stable and withstand the acting forces even at high heat, especially in the event of a fire.

[0066] It is therefore advantageous for the first section 3 to have a lower melting point than the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6. The melting point of the first section 3 can, for example, be in the range between approximately 100°C and approximately 700°C. The melting point of the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 is preferably higher than the melting point of the first section 3 and is, for example, above approximately 600°C. Correspondingly different melting points of the first section 3 and the second section 4 or the transverse load-bearing section 6 of the profile connector 10 enable at least a portion of the first section 3 to melt, allowing the second profile 2 to expand, while simultaneously maintaining the connection between the first profile 1 and the second profile 2, ensuring that the substructure 100 remains stable even in the event of a fire.

[0067] Preferably, the melting point of the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 corresponds to or is higher than the melting point of the profiles 1, 2. Accordingly, if the profiles 1, 2 to be connected by means of the profile connector 10 are made of steel, for example, the first section 3 can be made of aluminum, whereas the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 can then also be made of steel or ceramic, for example. In the event of a fire, the first section 3 made of aluminum melts, and thus also its frame body 3a, so that the second profile 2 can expand in the direction of the first profile 1. In contrast, the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 made of steel or ceramic do not melt and continue to connect the first profile 1 to the second profile 2 even in the event of a fire, thus ensuring that superimposed loads, transverse loads, bending moments, and tensile forces can be absorbed and / or transmitted.

[0068] If the profiles 1, 2 to be connected by the profile connector 10 are made of aluminum, for example, the first section 3 can be made of zinc or plastic, in particular a thermoplastic. In contrast, the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6, like the profiles 1, 2, can also be made of aluminum.

[0069] The examples mentioned illustrate the relationship between the melting points and / or materials of the profiles 1, 2 and the components of the profile connector 10. Other material combinations may also be provided.

[0070] The Figures 3 and 4 show an exemplary profile connector 10 for connecting profiles 1, 2 of a substructure 100.

[0071] As in Figure 3As shown, the first section 3 of the profile connector 10 is preferably arranged at least partially around the second section 4. In particular, a frame body 3a of the first section 3 can frame and / or surround a part of the second section 4, preferably completely circumferentially. The first section 3 can have recesses and / or webs in order to be coupled to the second section 4 in a substantially precisely fitting manner.

[0072] The first section 3 and the second section 4 can be fastened to the first profile 1 with one or more fastening means 14. Each of the sections 3, 4 can have one or more separate fastening means 14 or one or more common fastening means 14. Since the second section 4 must be able to transmit higher forces to the first profile 1, the second section 4 preferably has more and / or more stable fastening means 14 than the first section 3. It is also possible for the first section 3 to be fastened to the first profile 1 only via the second section 4. This can be achieved, for example, by pressing a part of the first section 3 through the second section 4, in particular by an arrangement between a part of the second section 4 and the first profile 1.

[0073] The second section 4 comprises one or more load-bearing sections 5 for absorbing and / or dissipating a load Fa acting from the second profile 2 onto the profile connector 10. In the example shown, two load-bearing sections 5 are shown, which are arranged substantially parallel to one another. The load-bearing sections 5 shown are formed as an integral sheet metal part, which enables cost-effective production with low weight and sufficient strength.

[0074] Alternatively, the load-bearing section 5 can be formed from solid material, in particular from a milled component, whereby a higher resistance to both heating and acting forces is achieved.

[0075] The second section 4 preferably has one or more transverse load-bearing sections 6 for absorbing and / or dissipating a transverse load Fq. A transverse load Fq acting laterally, i.e. orthogonally to the applied load Fa, on the profile connector 10 can preferably be absorbed on both sides. In the example shown, a transverse load-bearing section 6 is designed as a formed sheet metal part and is arranged substantially at right angles to the applied load sections 5 and connected to them. In the example shown, the two applied load sections 5 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 form an H-shaped part of the second section 4.

[0076] The transverse load-bearing section 6 can be designed as a separately manufactured component and connectable to the second section 4. This is particularly advantageous if one of the sections 5, 6 is designed as a formed sheet metal part, since manufacturing accuracy in multiple directions of a formed sheet metal part is difficult to achieve. Therefore, it can be advantageous to manufacture the sections 4, 6 separately with high precision and then connect them to one another.

[0077] As particularly in Figure 4As shown, a preferred connection between the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 can be realized by a plug-in connection. This exemplary plug-in connection is formed by complementary slots in the sections 4, 6, whereby the sections 4, 6 can be connected in a simple manner. The sections 4, 6 preferably form a positive connection, which cannot be released without causing damage when the profile connector 10 is attached to the first profile 1.

[0078] Alternatively or additionally, the connection can be made by means of material bonding, in particular welding and / or gluing, or screwing / riveting.

[0079] The profile connector 10 is configured by the load-bearing section 5 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 to absorb and / or transmit a load Fa and a transverse load Fq. Furthermore, the profile connector 10 is capable of absorbing a tensile force Fz from a connected profile. This property is enabled by a locking element 8, which is displaceably arranged in a locking element receiving section 7 of the second section 4 and, when the second profile 2 is connected, essentially prevents, or at least limits, displacement of the second profile 2 away from a connected first profile 1.

[0080] The second section 4, preferably the load-receiving section 5, has a locking element receiving section 7, which is formed, for example, as a recess in the sheet metal part for the load-receiving section 5 shown. The locking element receiving section 7 is designed and oriented to receive a locking element 8. The locking element 8 can be arranged at least partially in the locking element receiving section 7, in particular even when the second profile 2 is connected.

[0081] The locking element 8 is arranged in the locking element receiving section 7 during assembly of the substructure 100 after the second profile 2 has been connected to the profile connector 10. The locking element 8 is in an initial arrangement and / or normal position. In this state, the locking element 8 is configured to transfer a tensile force acting from the second profile 2, i.e., a force substantially parallel to the extension direction E2 of the second profile 2 and away from the first profile 1, to the second section 4 of the profile connector 10. The locking element 8 can be designed, in particular, as a shaped sheet metal part and / or plate.

[0082] In the initial arrangement as in Figures 3 and 4The locking element 8 is shown positioned at least partially in the two locking element receiving sections 7 of the two load-receiving sections 5 and in contact with or directly adjacent to and / or at a short distance from a respective locking section 7a of the locking element receiving sections 7. The locking sections 7a face the locking element 8 and / or the first profile 1 and form a stop and / or a support for the locking element 8, so that a substantially translational displacement of the locking element 8 in the direction away from the first profile 1 is prevented, or at least limited.

[0083] In the initial configuration, the locking element 8 engages with the connected second profile 2 such that a tensile force Fz is transmitted to the locking element 8 by the second profile 2. When the tensile force Fz acts on the locking element 8, the locking element 8 is pressed against the locking sections 7a. This prevents displacement of the second profile 2 and the locking element 8, and the tensile force Fz is transmitted to the first profile 1.

[0084] However, the locking element 8 is further arranged in the locking element receiving section 7 in such a way that the locking element 8 can be displaced toward the first profile 1. When the second profile 2 is connected, the locking element 8 thus does not prevent expansion of the second profile 2, as it does when the first section 3 of the profile connector 10 is melted. In particular, the locking element 8 engages with the second profile 2 in such a way that expansion and / or displacement of the second profile 2 displaces the locking element 8 toward the first profile 1.

[0085] In particular, due to this design and arrangement of the locking element 8 and the locking element receiving section 7, the profile connector 10 is configured to compensate for a longitudinal expansion of the second profile 2 in the event of a fire and to ensure absorption and / or transmission of superimposed load, transverse load, bending moments and a tensile force even after the first section 3 of the profile connector 10 has melted.

[0086] The Figure 5 shows a view of an exemplary substructure 100 in the extension direction E2 of the second profile 2. In this example, the first profile 1 and the second profile 2 are aligned substantially horizontally. The applied load Fa acts substantially orthogonally to the extension direction E1 of the first profile and to the extension direction E2 of the second profile 2.

[0087] The exemplary profile connector 10 and the exemplary substructure 100 are particularly advantageously designed in that the force-absorbing and / or force-transmitting parts of the profile connector 10 are arranged at least partially inside the second profile 2. In conjunction with the frame body 3a of the first section 3 of the profile connector 10, a homogeneous appearance, simple assembly, and advantageous force transmission of the substructure 100 are enabled.

[0088] As in Figure 5As shown, the second profile 2 is designed, for example, as a hollow profile. This allows the second profile 2 to be connected to the profile connector 10 in a simple manner and by translational displacement in its extension direction E2, wherein the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 of the profile connector 10 lie entirely within the outer contour of the second profile 2. Consequently, the second profile 2 and the second section 4 and the transverse load-bearing section 6 of the profile connector 10 form a floating bearing.

[0089] Preferably, the second section 4 of the profile connector 10 has a height that substantially corresponds to the height of the cavity of the second profile 2. This allows for an advantageous positive connection in the vertical direction between the second profile 2 and the profile connector 10. Preferably, the upper part of the cavity of the second profile 2 rests on the load-bearing section 5 and thus transfers a load Fa to the second section 4.

[0090] The optionally provided transverse load-bearing section 6 of the profile connector 10 preferably has a width that essentially corresponds to the width of the cavity of the second profile 2. This allows for an advantageous positive connection in the transverse and / or horizontal directions between the profile 2 and the profile connector 10. Furthermore, a transverse load Fq can be absorbed in both directions.

[0091] The locking element 8 is preferably arranged in the locking element receiving section 7 such that the locking element 8 essentially terminates at or below the upper side of the second profile 2. In particular, the locking element 8 does not protrude beyond an outer contour of the second profile 2. The locking element receiving section 7 is preferably formed as an undercut in the extension direction E2 of the second profile 2 to the load-receiving section 5 in the second section 4.

[0092] The Figure 6 shows a sectional view of the exemplary substructure 100 of the Figure 5 . As in Figure 6 As shown, in the example shown, the first profile 1 is also designed as a hollow profile. However, one or both of the profiles 1, 2 can be designed as U- or I-profiles.

[0093] As in Figure 6As shown, the locking element 8 is accessible from the outside through an access opening 16 in the second profile 2. In particular, the access opening 16 and the locking element receiving section 7 are designed and positioned such that the locking element 8 can be inserted into the locking element receiving section 7 when the second profile 2 is connected.

[0094] It is advantageous, as shown in the example, that the access opening 16 and the locking element receiving section 7 are open vertically upward. This allows for easy arrangement of the locking element 8 in the initial configuration, thus enabling simple assembly of the substructure 100. Furthermore, no additional securing means are required to prevent accidental displacement of the locking element 8, since the locking element 8 is held in position by gravity.

[0095] As in the Figures 5 and 6As shown, the first section 3 of the profile connector 10 is preferably designed such that it substantially corresponds to the outer contour of the second profile 2. This allows for a homogeneous appearance. Furthermore, this enables the installation of universal roof and wall elements, since these do not have to be adapted to profile connector shapes that differ from the profiles.

[0096] Preferably, the one or more fastening means 14 are also arranged within the outer contour of the second profile 2. As a result, they are not visible after assembly and are protected from external influences, which extends their service life. In the example shown, the central fastening means 14 is designed as a screw, which fastens both the first section 3 and the second section 4 to the first profile 1. In addition, the lower and upper or outer fastening means 14 are provided for connecting the second section 4 to the first profile 1, thus achieving improved stability of the connection between the first profile 1 and the second section 4 of the profile connector 10.

[0097] Preferably, the profile connector 10 is fastened to the first profile 1 in such a way that even when the first section 3 is melted, the fastening of the second section 4 of the profile connector to the first profile 1 is sufficiently stable with regard to the force transmission of the superimposed load, transverse load, bending moments and tensile force.

[0098] The Figures 7a to 7c show an exemplary substructure 100 with different length expansions of the second profile 2, for example due to heating in the event of a fire.

[0099] In the Figure 7a The first section 3 of the profile connector 10 is not shown or is not present, for example because it has already melted. The second profile 2 is in an unexpanded state, and the locking element 8 is located in the locking element receiving section 7 in the initial configuration.

[0100] In the initial configuration, the locking element 8 is preferably arranged in contact with a stop surface 12 of the second profile 2 or at a short distance, for example less than 3 mm, from the stop surface 12 of the second profile 2, via which a tensile force Fz from the second profile 8 can act on the locking element 8. Preferably, the locking element 8 in the initial configuration is preferably arranged in contact with the locking section 7a of the locking element receiving section 7 or at a short distance, for example less than 3 mm, from the locking section 7a of the locking element receiving section 7. Preferably, the locking element 8 is directly adjacent to the second profile 2 and the second section 4 of the profile connector 10 on opposite sides.

[0101] The stop surface 12 of the second profile 2 can in particular be formed by a region of the access opening 16, for example a groove in the extension direction E2 of the second profile 2. Alternatively or additionally, the stop surface 12 can be formed essentially by an upper section and / or a wall of the second profile 2 in the region of the access opening 16.

[0102] In the Figure 7b the end of the second profile 2 connected to the profile connector 10 is shifted towards the first profile 1, for example due to heating in the event of a fire. The end face of the second profile 2 is closer to the first profile 1 as in Figure 7a .

[0103] In the example shown, the locking element 8 is still in the initial configuration and preferably in contact with the locking section 7a, since the second profile 2 has not exerted any force on the locking element 8 in the direction of the first profile 1 due to the shape of the access opening 16. However, with a correspondingly narrow shape of the access opening 16, even a slight expansion of the second profile 2 can lead to a displacement of the locking element 8 out of the initial configuration and toward the first profile 1.

[0104] In Figure 7c the second profile 2 is extended to such an extent that the locking element 8 is displaced from the second profile in the locking element receiving section 7 in the direction toward the first profile 1. The displacement of the locking element 8 can occur in particular by the action of a force through a section of a groove of the second profile 2 corresponding to and opposite the stop surface 12.

[0105] As can be seen in particular from the Figures 7a to 7c As can be seen, the profile connector 10 enables the transmission and / or absorption of superimposed load, transverse load, bending moments and tensile force even when the first section 3 is melted.

[0106] It should be noted that the locking element 8 in the positions of Figures 7b and 7c cannot absorb any tensile forces Fz, since there is no contact with the locking section 7a. However, with a corresponding displacement of the end region of the second profile 2, for example due to bending or shrinkage due to cooling, the locking element 8 can be displaced again in the direction away from the first profile 1 and into the initial arrangement and into contact with the locking section 7a, whereby the locking element 8 is again configured to transmit a tensile force Fz to the first profile 1. List of reference symbols

[0107] 1First profile 2Second profile 3First section 3aFrame body 4Second section 5Load-bearing section 6Transverse load-bearing section 7Locking element-bearing section 7aLocking section 8Locking element 10Profile connector 12Stop surface 14Fasteners 16Access opening 100Substructure FaLoad FqTransverse load FzTensile force E1Extension direction of the first profile E2Extension direction of the second profile

Claims

1. A profile connector (10) connectable to a first profile (1) and a second profile (2), in particular a substructure (100) for wall or roof elements of a building, comprising: - a first section (3) with an associated first melting point, - a second section (4) with an associated second melting point that is greater than the first melting point, - a displaceable locking element (8); - at least one first fastening means (14) with which the profile connector (10) can be fastened to the first profile (1), wherein the first section (3) is configured to couple an end face of the second profile (2) to the first profile (1) at a distance from one another; and wherein the second section (4) has at least one load-receiving section (5) for receiving a load (Fa) acting from the second profile (2) onto the profile connector (10); wherein the load (Fa) acts substantially in the vertical direction;and wherein the second section (4) has a locking element receiving section (7) which is configured to at least partially receive the locking element (8), wherein the received locking element (8) is displaceable in an initial arrangement towards the first profile (1) in the locking element receiving section (7) and wherein the received locking element (8) is not displaceable away from the first profile (1) in the initial arrangement.; 2. Profile connector (10) according to claim 1, wherein the profile connector (10) has at least one transverse load receiving section (6) for receiving a transverse load (Fq) acting from the second profile (2) onto the profile connector (10), wherein the transverse load (Fq) acts substantially perpendicular to the applied load (Fa).

3. Profile connector (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the locking element (8) received by the locking element receiving section (7) enables an approximate displacement of the end face of the second profile (2) connected to the profile connector (10) towards the first profile (1) in the extension direction (E2) of the second profile with at least partial melting of the first section (3).

4. Profile connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking element receiving section (7) is designed as a recess in or as a recess to the load receiving section (5).

5. Profile connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second section (4) is at least partially formed as a sheet metal part.

6. Profile connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second section (4) has two parallel load-bearing sections (5).

7. Profile connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second section (4) and the transverse load-bearing section (6) are formed as separately manufactured components.

8. Profile connector (10) according to claim 7, wherein the second section (4) and the transverse load-bearing section (6) are designed to be coupled to one another or wherein the second section (4) and the transverse load-bearing section (6) are each fastenable to the first profile (1) with a fastening means (14) and at a distance from one another.

9. Profile connector (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second section (4) is designed as a milled part.

10. Profile connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the melting point associated with the first section (3) is in the range from approximately 100°C to approximately 700°C and / or wherein the first section (3) comprises zinc, aluminum and / or plastic.

11. Profile connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the melting point associated with the second section (4) is at least approximately 600°C and / or wherein the second section (4) comprises metal, in particular steel or aluminum, and / or ceramic.

12. Profile connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first section (3) has a frame body (3a) which radially surrounds the second section (4) at least in regions.

13. Profile connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first portion (4) is designed to space the first profile (1) and the second profile (2) in a range of about 3 mm to about 100 mm, preferably in a range of 5 mm to 20 mm.

14. Substructure (100), in particular for wall or roof elements, for example for facade panels of a building, comprising a first profile (1) and a second profile (2), wherein the profiles (1, 2) are connected to one another by means of the profile connector (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13.

15. Substructure (100) according to claim 14, wherein the locking element (8) can be received by the locking element receiving portion (7) when the second profile (2) is connected.

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