Connector for securing a first component to a second component, connector assembly, component assembly, component connection, and use of a connector
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-06-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-08
AI Technical Summary
Existing connectors for attaching components often face a trade-off between stability and ease of construction and handling, as simple designs may lack stability, while stable designs can be complex and difficult to handle.
A connector with a base body defined by a base surface, top surface, and lateral surface, featuring an inclined guide channel that allows easy insertion of fasteners and tools, providing a large coupling area for stability without protruding elements, and incorporating holding means for secure retention.
The connector achieves a stable mechanical connection while being structurally simple and easy to handle, allowing for efficient assembly and use in component connections, particularly in wooden components.
Smart Images
Figure EP2024065357_12122024_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Connector for fastening a first component to a second component, connector arrangement, component arrangement, component connection and use of a connector
[0002] The invention relates to a connector for fastening a first component to a second component. One of the first and second components has a recess for receiving the connector. The connector comprises a base body defined by a base surface, a cover surface, and a lateral surface.
[0003] Furthermore, the invention is directed to a connector assembly comprising such a connector.
[0004] The invention is further directed to a component arrangement comprising a component with a recess open on one side and such a connector.
[0005] The invention also relates to a component connection comprising a first component, a second component, a fastening means and a connector.
[0006] The invention is also directed to a use of a connector.
[0007] Such connectors and the resulting connector arrangements, component arrangements, and component connections are known from the prior art. They are used, in particular, for connecting wooden components.
[0008] In this context, the goal is always to create a stable mechanical component connection using the connector. At the same time, the connector should be simple in design and easy to handle. However, there is a trade-off between the stable mechanical AS: TOP component connection, the simple design of the connector, and the ease of handling of the connector.
[0009] It is therefore the object of the present invention to resolve or at least mitigate this conflict of objectives, ie to provide a connector which is structurally simple and easy to handle, whereby stable mechanical component connections can be produced by means of the connector.
[0010] The problem is solved by a connector for fastening a first component to a second component. One of the first and second components has a recess for receiving the connector. The connector comprises a base body which is delimited by a base surface, a cover surface and a jacket surface. The jacket surface defines a lateral outer contour of the connector. A recess emanates from the cover surface and a guide channel with a guide channel central axis extends from the recess to the jacket surface of the base body. The guide channel central axis is inclined with respect to a base body axis which is perpendicular to the base surface and / or perpendicular to the cover surface. In this context, an inclined orientation refers to an orientation which is neither parallel nor perpendicular. The guide channel central axis is therefore neither parallel nor perpendicular to the base surface and / or the cover surface.It is understood that the base surface and the cover surface can run parallel, but do not have to. In the event that the base surface and the cover surface are arranged parallel, the base body axis is perpendicular to both the base surface and the cover surface. The guide channel is suitable for guiding a fastening means or a tool, in particular a drill, and / or at least partially accommodating it. The guide channel preferably has a circular cross-section. Such a connector, which essentially comprises a base body with a recess and a guide channel, is structurally very simple. This is due, among other things, to the fact that the lateral surface defines a lateral outer contour of the connector. The connector therefore does not require any elements that protrude laterally from the base body, e.g. pins or studs.The fact that the lateral surface defines the lateral outer contour should be understood to mean that the entire lateral outer contour is determined by the lateral surface. In particular, the connector comprises only a single component. The fact that the guide channel originates from the recess and the guide channel central axis is inclined relative to the base body axis means that both a fastener and a tool can be easily inserted into the guide channel. The recess creates the necessary freedom of movement for this. In other words, the connector is comparatively easy to handle. Furthermore, the inclined guide channel central axis has the effect that a stable mechanical component connection can be formed by means of the connector. For this purpose, a fastener can be inserted into the guide channel, at least in sections.Due to the inclined arrangement of the guide channel center axis, a comparatively large coupling area results between the fastening means and the first component as well as between the fastening means and the second component.
[0011] In one variant, the base surface, the top surface, and the lateral surface together define the outer contour of the connector. This type of connector has a particularly simple design.
[0012] In this context, an outer contour can also be understood as an envelope contour that encloses the connector. Accordingly, a lateral outer contour can be understood as a lateral envelope contour that encloses the connector laterally, i.e., from the side.
[0013] Due to the fact that the lateral surface defines a lateral outer contour of the connector, the connector does not have any elements that, in a view perpendicular to the cover surface, lie outside an outer contour of the cover surface, i.e., protrude beyond the outer contour of the cover surface. Accordingly, in the view perpendicular to the cover surface, the outer contour of the cover surface also defines a lateral outer contour or a lateral envelope contour of the connector. Alternatively or in addition to the inclination of the guide channel center axis relative to the base body axis perpendicular to the base surface and / or perpendicular to the cover surface, the guide channel center axis can be inclined relative to the lateral surface at an intersection point between the guide channel center axis and the lateral surface. It is understood that the intersection point of the guide channel center axis and the lateral surface is a virtual intersection point.This is because the lateral surface is penetrated by the guide channel in the area of the intersection point. The intersection point is therefore not physically present, but only virtual. This results in the effects and advantages already explained.
[0014] Preferably, the guide channel center axis is inclined toward the base surface at the intersection point between the guide channel center axis and the lateral surface. This means that the intersection point between the guide channel center axis and the lateral surface is closer to the base surface than points of the guide channel center axis that, starting from this intersection point, are closer to the recess. This has the effect that the connector is pulled toward a base of the recess of the first component or the second component when the connector is arranged in the recess and the first component and the second component are fastened to one another using a fastening means arranged in the guide channel. In this way, the stability of the connection between the first component and the second component is further increased.
[0015] According to one variant, at least one holding means is arranged on the outer surface, which is designed to hold the connector in the recess of the first or second component. Preferably, a plurality of holding means are arranged on the outer surface. In this context, the holding means can be designed as a holding rib or groove. In the event that a plurality of holding means is provided, each of the holding means is designed as a holding rib or groove. The holding ribs or grooves serve to clamp the main body of the connector to a outer surface of the recess. Alternatively or additionally, the holding means can be designed as a holding lamella. In the event that a plurality of holding means is provided, each of the holding means is designed as a holding lamella. The holding lamellas serve to clamp the main body of the connector to the outer surface of the recess.In this context, the retaining lamellas can be elastically deformed, for example, bent, when the connector is inserted into the recess of the first or second component. All variants have the effect of reliably holding the connector in the recess of the first or second component.
[0016] The guide channel can have a chamfer at its recess-side end, i.e., at the end of the guide channel facing the recess. The chamfer preferably extends completely around a periphery of the guide channel. Such a chamfer facilitates the insertion of a fastener and / or a tool into the guide channel. This further simplifies the handling of the connector.
[0017] The basic body can have the shape of a cylinder, a truncated pyramid, or a truncated cone. In this context, a cylinder is understood as a general cylinder. The basic body can therefore have a shape that results from moving a flat, closed curve along a straight line. The straight line can be oriented in any direction to the curve. In a special case, the straight line is perpendicular to a surface defined by the closed curve. In this special case, the cylinder is also called a right cylinder. Analogously, in the variant in which it has the shape of a truncated pyramid, the basic body can have any desired base shape. In one example, the base is quadrangular, for example, rectangular or square. In another example, the base of the truncated pyramid is hexagonal.Even in the variant in which the base body is shaped like a truncated cone, the truncated cone can have any desired base shape. Preferred examples are circular or elliptical bases. In all variants, the base body is structurally simple. At the same time, a base body designed in this way can provide a comparatively large surface area, through which a holding force can be transmitted to the component that has the recess in which the connector is arranged. Connectors shaped in this way therefore serve to create a stable mechanical component connection.
[0018] Preferably, an outer contour of the connector has the shape of a cylinder or the shape of a truncated pyramid or the shape of a truncated cone.
[0019] The guide channel central axis can enclose an angle of between 30 degrees and 85 degrees with the base body axis. This means that the guide channel central axis encloses an angle of between 5 degrees and 60 degrees with the base surface and cover surface, to which the base body axis is perpendicular. In one example, the guide channel central axis and the base body axis enclose an angle of 45 degrees. In another example, the guide channel central axis and the base body axis enclose an angle of 60 degrees. A guide channel central axis inclined in this way has the advantage that a fastening device and / or a tool can be easily inserted into the guide channel. Furthermore, as already mentioned, a stable mechanical connection is achieved because the inclination results in a comparatively large coupling section between the fastening device and the first component and / or the second component.
[0020] Preferably, the guide channel center axis is inclined relative to the base body axis perpendicular to the base surface and / or perpendicular to the cover surface and / or relative to the lateral surface such that an imaginary extension of the guide channel extending through the recess emanating from the cover surface does not intersect the base body. In other words, a projection of a cross-section of the guide channel along the guide channel center axis in the direction of the recess emanating from the cover surface does not touch or intersect the base body. In such a configuration, a fastening means and / or a tool can be particularly conveniently inserted into the guide channel.
[0021] Preferably, the guide channel center axis is inclined relative to the base body axis perpendicular to the base surface and / or perpendicular to the cover surface and / or relative to the lateral surface such that an imaginary extension of the guide channel along the guide channel center axis in the direction of the side of the connector opposite the guide channel, i.e., in the direction of the recess, only intersects the plane of the cover surface of the connector. In this context, the plane of the cover surface is delimited by an outer contour of the cover surface. In this way, a fastening means can be mounted particularly easily when the connector is inserted into the recess for receiving the connector.
[0022] In one variant, the recess has a flat wall surface. The guide channel extends from the flat wall surface. In particular, the guide channel's central axis is perpendicular to the flat wall surface. Such a wall surface is structurally and technically simple to manufacture. Furthermore, a flat wall surface is particularly well suited as a contact surface for a fastener that is arranged at least partially in the guide channel. In an example in which the fastener is a screw, a screw head can be placed against the wall surface. In this way, comparatively large forces can be transmitted between the connector and the fastener. This ensures a stable mechanical connection between the components.
[0023] According to one embodiment, the recess has a varying depth measured along the base body axis. A deepest point of the recess is located adjacent to the guide channel. In other words, the depth of the recess is not constant, in particular along a direction that corresponds to a continuation of the guide channel center axis projected into the recess. This direction can also be referred to as the longitudinal or length direction of the connector. Alternatively, this direction can be referred to as the longitudinal or length direction of the recess. Due to the fact that the recess represents a mechanical weakening of the base body, the varying depth has the effect that the depth always only needs to be as large as necessary locally. Therefore, a comparatively large depth can create the necessary freedom of movement for a fastener or tool to be arranged in the guide channel adjacent to the guide channel.In other cases, a smaller depth may be sufficient to accommodate the fastener or tool within the guide channel. Overall, this creates a stable mechanical connector that is still easy to handle. This particularly applies to inserting the fastener or tool into the guide channel.
[0024] According to another embodiment, the recess has a concavely curved base surface. In particular, the concavely curved base surface merges seamlessly into one or more side surfaces of the recess. On the one hand, the concavely curved base surface provides the necessary freedom of movement within the recess for fasteners and / or tools to be inserted into the guide channel. On the other hand, the curvature is advantageous with regard to the force or stress distribution within the connector, since stress and force peaks are avoided, particularly compared to a square design. The mechanical stability of the connector is thus improved in this way.
[0025] The concavely curved recess base surface can be a section of a circular cylinder surface, with the radius of the circular cylinder surface being larger than the radius of the guide channel. Such a recess base surface is structurally simple and can be manufactured comparatively easily and cost-effectively using known manufacturing processes.
[0026] Preferably, a central axis associated with the circular cylinder surface coincides with the central axis of the guide channel. In other words, the guide channel and the section of the recess base designed as a circular cylinder surface are arranged coaxially. This results in a comparatively simple structure of the connector.
[0027] In one embodiment, the base body has a length measured perpendicular to the base body axis and a width measured perpendicular to the base body axis and perpendicular to the length. The length and width are equal. Such a base body is relatively compact. The base surface and / or the cover surface can be circular or polygonal. A special case of polygonal is square. In this context, the term polygonal also includes polygon shapes in which the corners of the polygon are rounded. Preferably, the base surface and the cover surface have the same shape. Overall, all variants result in a structurally simple connector.
[0028] The base body can also have a length measured perpendicular to the base body axis and a width measured perpendicular to the base body axis and perpendicular to the length, with the length being greater than the width. Such a base body is therefore elongated. This allows for comparatively large surfaces to be created for force transmission between the connector and the first component or second component into whose recess the connector is inserted. The elongated shape also provides a certain amount of space for the recess. The recess can therefore be designed to allow a fastener and / or a tool to be inserted particularly easily into the guide channel.
[0029] In one design alternative, the guide channel extends from a narrow side of the casing surface. Thus, a comparatively large space is provided for the recess.
[0030] In a case where the length of the basic body is greater than the width, the base surface and / or the top surface can be polygonal or elliptical or composed of at least two geometric elements. A special case of polygonal is rectangular. In this context, the term polygonal also includes polygon shapes in which the corners of the polygon are rounded. In an example in which the base surface and / or the top surface is rectangular, a rounding radius of the rounded corners can, for example, correspond to half the width of the rectangle. In a case in which the base surface and / or the top surface is or are composed of at least two geometric elements, the base surface and / or the top surface is, for example, composed of two or more intersecting circular areas, each of which has its center on a common alignment line.Preferably, the base and top surfaces have the same shape. Overall, all variants result in a structurally simple connector.
[0031] Additionally, the object is achieved by a connector arrangement comprising a connector according to the invention and a fastening means. The fastening means is arranged at least partially in the guide channel. The fastening means is suitable for being coupled to the first component and / or to the second component. In this context, the fastening means can be arranged loosely in the guide channel or held captively in the guide channel. In the second alternative, a captive element can be provided which is separate from the base body and the fastening means. Alternatively, the guide channel can be matched to the fastening means, for example with regard to its diameter, such that the fastening means is held captively. Further alternatively, a securing means can be provided within the guide channel which serves to hold the fastening means captively.In all variants, the connector is suitable for connecting two components without additional elements because the fastening element is arranged in the guide channel.
[0032] In one example, the fastener is a screw. Such fasteners are proven in terms of handling and mechanical stability. Furthermore, they can be operated using standard tools.
[0033] The object is further achieved by a component arrangement comprising a component with a recess open on one side and a connector according to the invention. The connector is arranged in the recess. The shape of the recess corresponds to the shape of the base body of the connector, so that a lateral surface of the base body and a lateral surface of the recess run adjacent. Such a recess can also be referred to as a pocket or a blind hole. Preferably, the base surface of the connector rests against a bottom surface of the recess. The cover surface of the connector is preferably arranged flush with the side of the component in which the recess is arranged. The recess, like the connector, can have the shape of a cylinder, a truncated pyramid, or a truncated cone. If the recess has the shape of a truncated pyramid or a truncated cone, the recess narrows along its depth direction.It goes without saying that the recess must always be slightly larger than the connector that is inserted into it. The recess is thus structurally just as simple as the connector. Furthermore, the connector can be easily inserted into the recess due to the corresponding shapes of the connector and recess.
[0034] The component can have a contact surface for contact with another component. The recess, which is open on one side, can be closed in a direction towards the contact surface. In other words, a section of the component is arranged between the recess and the contact surface. In a case in which the component is connected to another component by means of the connector, this section lies between the connector and the other component. This section thus serves to transmit force between the component and the connector. In other words, the connector can be reliably supported at this section. High forces can be transmitted. This allows a stable mechanical connection to be created.
[0035] Furthermore, the object is achieved by a component connection. The component connection comprises a first component, a second component, a fastening means and a connector according to the invention. The first component has a recess that is open on one side. The connector is arranged in the recess. The shape of the recess corresponds to the shape of the base body of the connector, so that a lateral surface of the base body and a lateral surface of the recess run adjacent. Furthermore, the fastening means is arranged at least in sections in the guide channel of the connector and engages in the second component. The fastening means can also engage in the first component, namely in that section of the first component that lies between the connector and the second component.Alternatively, in the area of the first component that lies between the connector and the second component, a receiving channel for the fastening means can be provided, which is arranged coaxially to the guide channel of the connector. In this case, the fastening means does not engage with the first component in the sense that it would directly introduce forces into a wall of the receiving channel or absorb forces from the wall of the receiving channel. In any case, a stable and reliable connection between the first component and the second component is achieved by the fastening means engaging with the second component and being coupled to the first component via the connector. Furthermore, due to the fact that both the connector and the recess for receiving the connector are of comparatively simple design, such a component connection can be easily produced.
[0036] Preferably, the first and second components are made of wood. Therefore, the first component can be a wooden component. The second component can also be a wooden component.
[0037] In one example, both the first and second components are panels. The component connection can be designed as a corner joint or a flat joint.
[0038] The first component can have a first contact surface and the second component a second contact surface. The first contact surface and the second contact surface can contact each other. The recess, which is open on one side, can be closed in a direction toward the first contact surface. In other words, a section of the first component is arranged between the recess and the second component. This section thus serves to transmit force between the first component and the connector. In other words, the connector can be reliably supported at this section. High forces can be transmitted. This allows a stable mechanical connection to be created.
[0039] It is understood that the position at which the fastener emerges from the first contact surface is determined, among other things, by the distance between the connector and the first contact surface. This distance can be selected for each application.
[0040] Furthermore, it goes without saying that different types of fasteners can be used depending on the application. This affects, for example, the length of the fastener.
[0041] The fastening means is preferably designed as a screw. More preferably, the fastening means is designed as a wood screw. In this context, in a wood screw, an end opposite the screw head is pointed. Furthermore, in a wood screw, a screw core, i.e., the elongated section of the screw on which an external thread is arranged, can have a conical or tapered section.
[0042] Additionally, the object is achieved by using a connector according to the invention as a drilling template. In this context, the guide channel serves to guide a drill. The connector is first inserted into the recess of the first component and then the drill is guided in the guide channel. In this context, a receiving channel can be produced between the recess in which the connector is inserted and the first contact surface of the first component, through which receiving channel the fastening means, for example the screw, can be pushed. Alternatively, only a core hole can be produced, which also extends between the connector and the first contact surface. The core hole differs from the receiving channel in that the core hole is designed so that a force is transmitted between a wall of the core hole and the fastening means.Using the connector as a drilling template makes creating a component connection particularly easy, since, unlike conventional methods, no separate drilling template is required.
[0043] A component connection according to the invention can thus be produced by providing a first component, a second component and a connector in a first step. A recess for the connector can already be present in the first component or this recess can be produced during the first step. Then, in a second step, the connector is inserted into the recess. In an optional third step, the connector can be used as a drilling template. This means that a drill is guided in the guide channel of the connector in order to produce a bore in the first component. As already explained above, this bore can be designed as a core hole or as a receiving channel. Then, in a fourth step, a fastening means, for example a screw, can be inserted into the guide channel and connected to the second component and / or the first component.It is understood that for this to happen, the first component and the second component must be in contact with each other via their respective contact surfaces. In the event that the fastening means is a screw or another fastening means that can be actuated using a tool, a suitable tool can be inserted at least partially into the recess to connect the fastening means to the second component and / or the first component, in order to interact with the fastening means within the recess. For example, a screwdriver or a hex wrench can be used in this context.
[0044] Furthermore, the features, effects, and advantages mentioned in connection with one of the connectors according to the invention, the connector arrangement according to the invention, the component arrangement according to the invention, the component connection according to the invention, and the use according to the invention also apply to the other connectors according to the invention, the connector arrangement according to the invention, the component arrangement according to the invention, the component connection according to the invention, and the use according to the invention. The aforementioned examples and variants can therefore be combined, regardless of whether they are mentioned in connection with the connector according to the invention, the connector arrangement according to the invention, the component arrangement according to the invention, the component connection according to the invention, or the use according to the invention. The invention is explained below using various exemplary embodiments shown in the attached drawings. In the drawings:
[0045] Figure 1 shows a component connection according to the invention with an inventive
[0046] Component arrangement and a connector according to the invention in a perspective view,
[0047] Figure 2 shows the component connection from Figure 1 in a section along plane II,
[0048] Figure 3 shows the connector from Figures 1 and 2 in a separate illustration,
[0049] Figure 4 shows the connector from Figure 3 in an exploded view, seen from a first perspective,
[0050] Figure 5 shows the connector from Figure 3 in an exploded view, seen from a second perspective,
[0051] Figure 6 shows a connector according to the invention according to another
[0052] Embodiment which can alternatively be used in the component connection according to Figures 1 and 2,
[0053] Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment of the component connection from Figures 1 and 2 in a view corresponding to Figure 2,
[0054] Figure 8 shows a connector according to the invention according to another
[0055] Embodiment which can alternatively be used in the component connection according to Figures 1 and 2,
[0056] Figure 9 shows a connector according to the invention according to another embodiment, which can alternatively be used in the component connection according to Figures 1 and 2, and
[0057] Figures 10 to 12 show selected intermediate steps in the production of the component connection from Figures 1 and 2.
[0058] Figures 1 and 2 show a component connection 10, which in the illustrated embodiment is designed as a right-angled corner connection. The component connection 10 comprises a first component 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the first component 12 is plate-shaped.
[0059] The first component 12 is made of wood.
[0060] Furthermore, the first component comprises a recess 14 that is open on one side.
[0061] In the embodiment shown, an opening 16 delimiting the recess 14 open on one side is provided on a flat side 18 of the first component 12.
[0062] The opening 16 has a cross-section in the shape of a rectangle with rounded corners. A corner radius corresponds to half the width of the rectangle.
[0063] In this context, a length direction of the opening 16, which runs along the larger extent of the opening, coincides with a length direction L of the recess 14.
[0064] A width direction of the opening 16, which runs perpendicular to the length direction of the opening 16 and thus runs along the smaller extent of the opening 16, coincides with a width direction B of the recess 14.
[0065] A depth direction T of the recess 14 runs perpendicular to the length direction L and the width direction B (see Figure 2).
[0066] The cross-section of the recess 14 is constant along the depth direction T.
[0067] Consequently, the recess 14 has the shape of an elongated hole designed as a blind hole. Alternatively, the recess 14 can be referred to as a milled pocket without undercut.
[0068] In addition, the component connection 10 comprises a second component 20.
[0069] The second component 20 is also plate-shaped in the embodiment shown.
[0070] The second component 20 is also made of wood. In this case, the second component 20 has no recess.
[0071] The first component 12 and the second component 20 lie against each other.
[0072] More precisely, the first component has a first contact surface 22, which extends substantially perpendicular to the flat side 18 of the first component 12. The first contact surface 22 and the flat side 18 are delimited by a common edge 24.
[0073] Thus, the recess 14 which is open on one side is also closed in the direction of the first contact surface 22.
[0074] The second component 20 has a second contact surface 26.
[0075] The first contact surface 22 and the second contact surface 26 contact each other.
[0076] Since in the present embodiment the first contact surface 22 has a smaller surface area than the second contact surface 26, in the example shown the first contact surface 22 is fully contacted by the second contact surface 26, whereas the first contact surface 22 only contacts a section of the second contact surface 26.
[0077] The component connection 10 further comprises a connector assembly 28, which is shown in detail in Figures 3 to 5.
[0078] The connector assembly 28 includes a connector 30 and a cover cap 32.
[0079] The connector 30 has a base body 34 which has the shape of a general cylinder and is bounded by a base surface 36, a cover surface 38 and a lateral surface 40.
[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the shape of the base body 34 is a right cylinder. A base body axis G is thus perpendicular to the base surface 36 and perpendicular to the top surface 38. Furthermore, the base surface 36 is polygonal. More precisely, the base surface 36 has the shape of a rectangle with rounded corners. A corner radius corresponds to half the width of the rectangle.
[0081] The top surface 38 has the same shape as the base surface 36, i.e. it is also polygonal.
[0082] The cover surface 38 defines an upper outer contour or upper envelope contour of the connector 30.
[0083] The base surface 36 defines a lower outer contour or lower envelope contour of the connector 30.
[0084] The lateral surface 40 defines a lateral outer contour or lateral envelope contour of the connector 30.
[0085] Accordingly, the base surface 36, the cover surface 38 and the lateral surface together define an outer contour or envelope contour of the connector 30.
[0086] The base body 34 has a length LG measured perpendicular to the base body axis G. The length of the base body corresponds to the longer extension of the polygonal base surface 36 and the polygonal cover surface 38.
[0087] Furthermore, the base body 34 has a width BG measured perpendicular to the base body axis G and perpendicular to the length LG. The direction of the width BG thus corresponds to the shorter extension of the polygonal base surface 36 and the polygonal top surface 38.
[0088] Due to the fact that the polygonal base surface 36 and the polygonal cover surface 38 have the shape of a rectangle, the length LG of the base body 34 is greater than the width LG of the base body 34.
[0089] A height HG of the base body 34 is measured along the base body axis G. The base body 34 also has a recess 42 which extends from the cover surface 38.
[0090] The recess 42 is elongated and extends essentially along the direction of the length LG of the base body 34.
[0091] The recess 42 has a flat wall surface 44.
[0092] The flat wall surface 44 delimits the recess 42 on one narrow side.
[0093] Furthermore, the narrow side is inclined relative to the base body axis G, for which purpose the flat wall surface 44 is rotated about an axis running parallel to the width direction of the base body 34.
[0094] This means that a normal on the flat wall surface 44 intersects the base body axis G. However, the normal and the base body axis G are not oriented perpendicular to each other.
[0095] In addition, the recess 42 is delimited by a concavely curved recess base 46.
[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the concavely curved recess base surface 46 is formed as a section of a circular cylinder surface.
[0097] A central axis belonging to the section of this circular cylinder surface is perpendicular to the flat wall surface 44.
[0098] The concavely curved depression base surface 46 extends in such a way that the depression 42 has a varying depth TV measured along the base body axis G (see Figure 2).
[0099] More precisely, the depth TV of the recess 42 is zero at an end of the recess 42 facing away from the flat wall surface 44. A deepest point of the recess 42 is thus adjacent to the flat wall surface 44. Furthermore, the base body has a guide channel 48 that originates from the flat wall surface 44 and extends to the lateral surface 40.
[0100] The guide channel 48 thus extends from a narrow side of the lateral surface 40.
[0101] The guide channel 48 has a constant, circular cross-section.
[0102] The guide channel 48 has a guide channel center axis M which is oriented perpendicular to the flat wall surface 44.
[0103] Thus, the guide channel center axis M is inclined relative to the base body axis G.
[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, an angle enclosed by the guide channel center axis M and the base body axis G is 70 degrees.
[0105] Since the lateral surface 40 runs perpendicular to the base surface 36 and perpendicular to the cover surface 38, i.e., parallel to the base body axis G, an angle enclosed by the guide channel center axis M and the lateral surface 40 is also 70 degrees. This is based on the intersection point between the guide channel center axis M and the lateral surface 40.
[0106] The guide channel central axis M is inclined in the direction of the base surface 36. This means that the intersection point between the guide channel central axis M and the lateral surface 40 is closer to the base surface 36 than points of the guide channel central axis M which, starting from this intersection point, are closer to the recess 42.
[0107] The central axis assigned to the circular cylinder surface and the guide channel central axis M coincide.
[0108] However, a radius of the circular cylinder surface, ie, a radius of the concavely curved recess base surface 46, is larger than a radius of the guide channel 48. Furthermore, a total of four retaining holes 50 are arranged in the cover surface 38. Each of the retaining holes 50 is positioned in the area of a corner of the polygonal cover surface 38.
[0109] All four retaining holes 50 are designed as blind holes. The retaining holes 50 serve to hold the cover cap 32 to the connector 30.
[0110] The cover cap 32 accordingly comprises a substantially plate-shaped cover element 52, from which a total of four retaining pins 54 protrude.
[0111] The plate-shaped cover element 52 has essentially the same shape as the cover surface 38 and the base surface 36. The cover element 52 is therefore also polygonal in shape, wherein in the embodiment shown it is formed as a rectangle with rounded corners.
[0112] The width of the cover element 52 is selected to be slightly larger than the width BG of the connector 30. Likewise, the length of the cover element 52 is selected to be slightly larger than the length of the connector 30.
[0113] In a state in which the cover cap 32 is mounted on the connector 30 by inserting each of the retaining pins 54 into an associated retaining bore 50, the cover element 52 thus protrudes on all sides relative to the connector 30 (see in particular Figure 3).
[0114] The base body 34 further includes a cavity 53 extending from the base surface 36. The cavity 53 serves to reduce the amount of material required to manufacture the connector.
[0115] In this case, the connector is made of a plastic material.
[0116] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 30 is arranged in the recess 14 of the first component 12, which is open on one side. The shape and size of the recess 14 and the connector 30 are coordinated such that the base surface 36 of the connector 30 rests against a bottom of the recess 14. The cover surface 38 of the connector is arranged substantially flush with the flat side 18 of the first component 12.
[0117] Furthermore, the lateral surface 40 of the connector 30 essentially abuts a lateral surface of the recess 14 open on one side. In other words, the lateral surface 40 of the connector 30 and the lateral surface of the recess 14 open on one side extend adjacently.
[0118] To reliably hold the connector 30 in the recess 14, a portion of the lateral surface 40 has grooves 56. For the sake of clarity, only a single exemplary groove 56 is provided with a reference symbol in the figures.
[0119] The combination of the first component 12 and the connector 30, which is arranged in the recess 14 open on one side, can also be referred to as component arrangement 58.
[0120] The component connection 10 also comprises a fastening means 60 (see in particular Figure 2).
[0121] The combination of connector 30 and fastening means 60 can also be referred to as a connector arrangement.
[0122] In the embodiment according to Figures 1 to 5, the fastening means 60 is a self-tapping screw.
[0123] The screw is screwed into the second component 30 with a tip-side portion. In other words, the tip-side portion of the screw, or more generally, the fastening means 60, engages the second component. A head of the fastening means 60, arranged opposite the tip of the fastening means 60, bears against the flat wall surface 44. A central portion located between the head and the tip of the fastening means 60 is arranged partially in the guide channel 48 and partially in a receiving channel coaxially adjacent to the guide channel. In the present case, the receiving channel is designed as a through-bore 62 in the first component 12.
[0124] The fastening means 60, here the screw, is thus screwed into the second component 20 in such a way that the head, in this case the screw head, rests under tension against the flat wall surface 44, thereby exerting a force on the connector 30 toward one end of the recess 14, which is open on one side and faces the second component 20. As a result, a portion of the first component 12, which lies between the connector 30 and the second component 20, is clamped between the connector 30 and the second component 20.
[0125] Figure 6 shows a connector 30 according to an alternative embodiment. The following will only discuss the difference compared to the connector 30 according to the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 5.
[0126] This difference lies in the fact that the connector 30 of Figure 6 does not have retaining holes 50. Thus, no cover cap 32 can be arranged on the connector 30 according to Figure 6.
[0127] Otherwise, the connector shown in Figure 6 corresponds to the connector explained with reference to Figures 1 to 5. The above statements apply accordingly.
[0128] Figure 7 shows a component connection 10 according to another embodiment. Here, only the differences compared to the component connection in Figures 1 and 2 are discussed.
[0129] In the component connection according to Figure 7, a distance A between the recess 14 of the first component 12, which is open on one side, and the first contact surface 22 of the first component 12 is greater than in the component connection 10 according to Figures 1 and 2. Accordingly, the component connection 10 according to Figure 7 comprises a fastening means 60, which here is again designed as a self-tapping screw, which is considerably longer than the fastening means 60 of the component connection from Figures 1 and 2.
[0130] It is understood that the fastening means 60 must always be selected to be long enough so that it can engage into the second component 20 over a desired length when it is arranged in the guide channel 48 and the through-bore 62 in such a way that the head of the fastening means 60 rests against the flat wall surface 44.
[0131] A further difference between the component connection 10 according to Figure 7 and the component connection 10 according to Figures 1 and 2 is that the connector 30 according to Figure 6 is used in the component connection 10 according to Figure 7. Accordingly, the component connection 10 according to Figure 7 does not have a cover cap 32.
[0132] The connectors 30 of the above-described embodiments, more precisely the base bodies 34 of the connectors 30, each have a height HG of 12 mm. A length LG is 33 mm, and a width BG is 10 mm.
[0133] These dimensions are selected so that the corresponding recess 14, which is open on one side, can be produced with minimal effort using a so-called dowel cutter. In particular, a corresponding recess can be produced without having to move the dowel cutter relative to the first component 12. This means that the dowel cutter only needs to be applied to the first component 12 once to mill a corresponding recess 14, which is open on one side. A cutter with a diameter corresponding to the width BG of the base body 34 is used for this purpose; in this case, it has a diameter of 10 mm.
[0134] Alternative dimensions of the connector 30 and the associated recess 14 are listed in the following table, whereby the dimensions mentioned always belong together in rows.
[0135] In this context, all dimensions specified for the connector 30 or the recess 14, which is open on one side, are to be understood as nominal dimensions. By appropriate tolerancing, application-specific combinations of connectors 30 and recesses 14 can be created based on these nominal dimensions, forming a press fit, a clearance fit, or a transition fit. In this context, it is also possible to select the tolerancing so that the connector 30 can be used for multiple applications. In other words, the tolerancing can also be provided independently of the application.
[0136] Of course, connectors 30 and associated recesses 14 can also have dimensions that are smaller than or larger than those specified in the table above. The ratio between the width BG and the length LG of the base body 34 of the connector 30 is preferably in the range of 0.25 to 0.35. A preferred ratio is 0.3. The height HG can be 12 mm as standard. The height HG is therefore application-independent. Alternatively, the height HG can be selected application-specifically.
[0137] Figure 8 shows a connector 30 according to a further embodiment.
[0138] Again, only the differences compared to the previously explained connectors 30 will be discussed. The connector in Figure 8 has a base body 34 that has the shape of a truncated pyramid.
[0139] Accordingly, as before, the base surface 36 and the cover surface 38 of the connector 30 are oriented parallel, but the base surface 36 is significantly smaller than the cover surface 38.
[0140] As before, the guide channel center axis M is inclined relative to the base body axis G, which is perpendicular to the base surface 36 and perpendicular to the cover surface 38, e.g., by 70 degrees. Furthermore, the guide channel center axis M is inclined toward the base surface 36, as in the previous embodiments.
[0141] In the embodiment according to Figure 8, however, the lateral surface 40 does not run parallel to the base body axis G. This applies to all side surfaces of the truncated pyramid-shaped base body 34, which together form the lateral surface 40.
[0142] Accordingly, an inclination of the guide channel central axis M relative to the section of the lateral surface 40 through which it penetrates differs from the inclination of the guide channel central axis M relative to the base body axis G.
[0143] Alternatively, the guide channel center axis M can also be perpendicular to the section of the lateral surface 40 through which it passes. The guide channel center axis M can therefore also have no inclination relative to this section of the lateral surface 40. This variant is shown in Figure 8.
[0144] Furthermore, the connector according to Figure 8 has no grooves 56 on its outer surface 40.
[0145] It is understood that in a component connection 10 in which the connector according to Figure 8 is used, the recess 14, which is open on one side, must be adapted to the geometry of the connector 30. Accordingly, the recess 14 must also have the shape of a truncated pyramid.
[0146] The recess 14 is preferably dimensioned such that the base surface 36 of the connector 30 contacts a bottom surface of the recess 14 when the connector 30 is inserted into the recess 14.
[0147] It is further preferred that the cover surface 38 of the connector 30 is flush with the flat side 18 of the first component 12 when the connector 30 is inserted into the recess 14.
[0148] Furthermore, in this state, the lateral surface 40 of the connector 30 and the lateral surface of the recess 14 preferably run adjacent.
[0149] A connector 30 according to another embodiment is shown in Figure 9.
[0150] Again, only the differences compared to the connectors 30 already explained will be discussed.
[0151] The connector of Figure 9 has a base body 34 which has the shape of a truncated cone.
[0152] Accordingly, as before, the base surface 36 and the cover surface 38 of the connector 30 are oriented parallel, but the base surface 36 is significantly smaller than the cover surface 38.
[0153] Furthermore, both the base surface 36 and the top surface 38 are circular.
[0154] As before, the guide channel center axis M is inclined relative to the base body axis G, which is perpendicular to the base surface 36 and perpendicular to the cover surface 38, e.g., by 70 degrees. Furthermore, the guide channel center axis M is inclined toward the base surface 36, as in the previous embodiments. However, in the embodiment according to Figure 9, the lateral surface 40 does not run parallel to the base body axis G.
[0155] Accordingly, an inclination of the guide channel central axis M relative to the lateral surface 40 differs from the inclination of the guide channel central axis M relative to the base body axis G. In determining the inclination of the guide channel central axis M relative to the lateral surface 40, an intersection point between the guide channel central axis M and the lateral surface 40 is used.
[0156] Alternatively, the guide channel center axis M can also be perpendicular to the lateral surface 40 at the intersection point between the guide channel center axis M and the lateral surface 40. The guide channel center axis M can therefore also have no inclination relative to the lateral surface 40. This variant is shown in Figure 9.
[0157] Furthermore, the connector according to Figure 9 has no grooves 56 on its outer surface 40.
[0158] It is understood that in a component connection 10 in which the connector according to Figure 9 is used, the recess 14, which is open on one side, must be adapted to the geometry of the connector 30. Accordingly, the recess 14 must also have the shape of a truncated cone.
[0159] The recess 14 is preferably dimensioned such that the base surface 36 of the connector 30 contacts a bottom surface of the recess 14 when the connector 30 is inserted into the recess 14.
[0160] It is further preferred that the cover surface 38 of the connector 30 is flush with the flat side 18 of the first component 12 when the connector 30 is inserted into the recess 14.
[0161] Furthermore, in this state, the outer surface 40 of the connector 30 and the outer surface of the recess 14 preferably extend adjacently. A method for producing a component connection 10 is explained below with reference to Figures 10 to 12.
[0162] To produce such a component connection 10, a first component 12 with a one-sided recess 14 and a second component 20 are provided. Furthermore, a connector 30 is provided, which in Figures 10 to 12 is, by way of example, the same connector as in Figures 1 to 5.
[0163] In this case, it is assumed that the recess 14 is already present in the first component 12. If this is not the case, it must be manufactured first.
[0164] The connector 30 can then be inserted into the recess 14 which is open on one side.
[0165] As already explained, this occurs in such a way that a base surface 36 of the connector 30 contacts a bottom surface of the recess 14, and the cover surface 38 of the connector 30 runs flush with the flat side 18 of the first component 12. In this state, the outer surface 40 of the connector 30 and the outer surface of the recess 14 run adjacent (see Figure 10).
[0166] The connector 30 is then used as a drilling template. This means that a drilling tool 64 is inserted into the guide channel 48 and, guided by the guide channel 48, the through-hole 62 is created in the first component 12, which connects the recess 14 to the first contact surface 22 (see Figure 11).
[0167] In the present example, a through-hole 62 is manufactured for the fastener 60. This means that the through-hole 62 is dimensioned such that the fastener 60 can be pushed through the through-hole 62 with essentially no resistance.
[0168] In an alternative embodiment, a core hole can be produced instead of the through-hole 62. The core hole is characterized in that the fastening element 60, which in this case is designed as a screw, can only pass through the core hole in a rotating manner, i.e., by utilizing the thread. It is therefore not possible to push the fastening element axially through the core hole.
[0169] In this alternative, the connector 30 can also be used as a drilling template. Only, compared to the aforementioned alternative, a drilling tool 64 with a smaller diameter must be used.
[0170] Once the through-hole 62 has been produced, the fastening means 62, in this case the screw, can be inserted into the guide channel 48 and into the through-hole 62. Furthermore, the second component 20 must then be placed with the second contact surface 26 against the first contact surface 22 (see Figure 12).
[0171] Now the fastening means 60, which in this case is a self-tapping screw, can be screwed into the second component 20.
[0172] For this purpose, a screw tool engages the head of the fastener 60.
[0173] Furthermore, the fastening means 60 is guided through the guide channel 48 when screwed into the second component 20. The screwing tool can initially engage the head of the fastening means 60 outside the recess 42. However, particularly shortly before the completion of the component connection 10, the head of the fastening means 60 is arranged at least partially within the recess 42, so that the engagement of the screwing tool with the head of the fastening means 60 also takes place at least partially within the recess.
[0174] If the fastening means 60 engages the second component 20 in such a way that a head of the fastening means 60 rests under tension on the flat wall surface 44 and thus acts on the connector 30 and the first component 12 in the direction of the second contact surface 26, the cover cap 32 can optionally be placed on the connector 30.
[0175] For this purpose, the retaining pins 54 are inserted into the associated retaining holes 50. List of reference symbols
[0176] 10 Component connection
[0177] 12 first component
[0178] 14 Recess
[0179] 16 Opening
[0180] 18 Flat side
[0181] 20 second component
[0182] 22 first investment area
[0183] 24 edge
[0184] 26 second contact surface
[0185] 28 Connector assembly
[0186] 30 connectors
[0187] 32 cover cap
[0188] 34 basic bodies
[0189] 36 floor space
[0190] 38 deck area
[0191] 40 lateral surface
[0192] 42 Deepening
[0193] 44 wall area
[0194] 46 Deepening area
[0195] 48 guide channel
[0196] 50 retaining hole
[0197] 52 Cover element
[0198] 53 Hollowing out
[0199] 54 retaining pins
[0200] 56 grooves
[0201] 58 Component arrangement
[0202] 60 Fasteners 62 Through hole
[0203] 64 drilling tools
[0204] A Distance B Width direction of the recess
[0205] BG Width of the base body
[0206] G Basic body axis
[0207] HG height of the base body
[0208] L Length direction of the recess LG Length of the base body
[0209] M guide channel center axis
[0210] T Depth direction of the recess
[0211] TV depth of recess
Claims
Claims 1. A connector (30) for fastening a first component (12) to a second component (20), wherein one of the first component (12) and the second component (20) has a recess (14) for receiving the connector (30), wherein the connector (30) comprises a base body (34) which is delimited by a base surface (36), a cover surface (38) and a lateral surface (40), wherein the lateral surface (40) defines a lateral outer contour of the connector (30), wherein a recess (42) extends from the cover surface (38) and a guide channel (48) with a guide channel central axis (M) extends from the recess (42) to the lateral surface (40) of the base body (34), and wherein the guide channel central axis (M) is inclined with respect to a base body axis (G) which is perpendicular to the base surface (36) and / or perpendicular to the cover surface (38).
2. Connector (30) according to claim 1, wherein the base body (34) has the shape of a cylinder or the shape of a truncated pyramid or the shape of a truncated cone.
3. Connector (30) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the guide channel central axis (M) forms an angle between 30 degrees and 85 degrees with the base body axis (G).
4. Connector (30) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recess (42) has a flat wall surface (44) and the guide channel (48) extends from the flat wall surface (44), in particular wherein the guide channel central axis (M) is perpendicular to the flat wall surface (44).
5. Connector (30) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recess (42) has a varying depth (TV) measured along the base body axis (G) and a deepest point of the recess (42) is adjacent to the guide channel (48).
6. Connector (30) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recess (42) has a concavely curved recess base surface (46).
7. Connector (30) according to claim 6, wherein the concavely curved recess base surface (46) is a portion of a circular cylinder surface, wherein a radius of the circular cylinder surface is greater than a radius of the guide channel (48).
8. Connector (30) according to claim 7, wherein a central axis associated with the circular cylinder surface coincides with the guide channel central axis (M).
9. Connector (30) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base body (34) has a length (LG) measured perpendicular to the base body axis (G) and a width (BG) measured perpendicular to the base body axis (G) and perpendicular to the length (LG), wherein the length (LG) and the width (BG) are equal.
10. Connector (30) according to claim 9, wherein the base surface (36) and / or the cover surface (38) are circular or polygonal.
11. Connector (30) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the base body (34) has a length (LG) measured perpendicular to the base body axis (G) and a width (BG) measured perpendicular to the base body axis (G) and perpendicular to the length (LG), wherein the length (LG) is greater than the width (BG).
12. Connector (30) according to claim 11, wherein the guide channel (48) extends from a narrow side of the lateral surface (40).
13. Connector (30) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the base surface (36) and / or the cover surface (48) are polygonal or elliptical or composed of at least two geometric elements.
14. Connector arrangement comprising a connector (30) according to one of the preceding claims and a fastening means (60), wherein the fastening means is arranged at least in sections in the guide channel (48) of the connector (30).
15. Component arrangement (58), comprising a component (12, 20) with a recess (14) open on one side, and a connector (30) according to one of claims 1 to 13, which is arranged in the recess (14), wherein the shape of the recess (14) corresponds to the shape of the base body (34) of the connector (30) so that a lateral surface (40) of the base body (34) and a lateral surface of the recess (14) run adjacent.
16. Component arrangement (58) according to claim 15, wherein the component (12, 20) has a contact surface (22, 26) for contact with another component (12, 20) and wherein the recess (14) open on one side is closed in a direction towards the contact surface (22, 26).
17. Component connection (10), comprising a first component (12), a second component (20), a fastening means (60) and a connector (30) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first component (12) has a recess (14) open on one side, wherein the connector (30) is arranged in the recess (14), wherein the shape of the recess (14) corresponds to the shape of the base body (34) of the connector (30) so that a lateral surface (40) of the base body (34) and a lateral surface of the recess (14) run adjacent, and wherein the fastening means (60) is arranged at least in sections in the guide channel (48) of the connector (30) and engages in the second component (20).
18. Component connection (10) according to claim 17, wherein the first component (12) has a first contact surface (22), wherein the second component (20) has a second contact surface (26), wherein the first contact surface (22) and the second contact surface (26) contact each other, and wherein the recess (14) which is open on one side is closed in a direction towards the first contact surface (22).
19. Use of a connector (30) according to one of claims 1 to 13 as a drilling template.