Connection device for a truss exhibition stand
The connection device enhances truss system stability and assembly efficiency by incorporating a ground element with a stiffening structure and fixing mechanism, addressing mechanical strength and user comfort issues in truss exhibition stands.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- X MODULE AS
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-03
AI Technical Summary
Existing truss exhibition stand connection devices suffer from low mechanical strength and durability, leading to high assembly times and reduced user comfort.
A connection device comprising a ground element with a first through hole section and a stiffening element that distributes forces, along with a fixing element for quick assembly, enhancing mechanical strength and user comfort.
The solution provides a connection device with improved mechanical strength and reduced assembly time, ensuring stability and ease of use in truss systems.
Smart Images
Figure IMGAF001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connection device comprising: a ground element, comprising a first common portion having a first through hole section, oriented in a first plane, at least one first intermediate portion, extending radially outward from the first common portion (and essentially in a plane with the first common portion), truss coupling portions extending radially outward from the first intermediate portion(s), and a fixing element comprising a handle portion and a connecting portion and being configured to connect a first truss module device at least indirectly, e.g. via a rigid connector device or a connection cube device, to a second truss module device. The present disclosure also relates to a system with a connection device and a truss module device being configured for being connected to a connection cube device or a rigid connector device.Related Art
[0002] Truss exhibition stands, i.e. truss systems, are widely used to display information and present those to target audiences and / or customers at trade fairs or exhibitions. In the scope of displaying information, the truss exhibition stands can be equipped with banners. Banners configured as Silicone Edge Graphics (SEG) banners represent one of the highest quality standards in graphics booths and displays. SEG-banners have a thin silicone strip / edge around the perimeter allowing an easy and fast installation and reinstallation.
[0003] The truss systems are often large in size, i.e. more than 30 or 50 square meters, in order to reach a large number of trade fair and exhibition visitors. With regard to the transport, handling and re-use of truss systems, it is common practice to assemble truss systems from a number of truss modules, i.e. modular construction. Thereby, the modular design includes the use of cubic connection elements, i.e. connection cube devices / connection cubes, in cases where the truss exhibition stands have corners and / or are oriented in more than one direction.
[0004] In order to ensure the stability of the modular truss systems, a fixation of adjacent modules is mandatory. In the art, this fixing is realized in the form of a detachable connection by means of connection devices.
[0005] The at least first connection device or the multiple connection devices each further comprise a fixing element provided to be connected to a rigid connector device. The rigid connector device is arranged centrally in between a first truss module device and an adjacent truss module device of the truss system and the fixing element is screwed in the rigid connector device from a first side in order to attach the first truss module device to the rigid connector device. The adjacent module is attached to the rigid connector device by a second fixing element that is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the first fixing element. This second fixing element is configured to be connected to the rigid connector device from a second side, opposite to the first side.
[0006] CN 215 167 181 U e.g. discloses a truss system with a plurality of truss module segment devices each comprising four tube portions that form the frame of the truss module segment device. An assembly of at least two truss module devices, assembled on top of each other, forms a truss pillar. An assembly of truss pillars forms a truss system. The truss system comprises a connection device, in particular a cruciform, metallic connection device. The connection device disclosed in CN 215 167 181 U has a cross shaped / x-shaped basic shape with four intermediate portions embodied as arms. The four intermediate portions are extending outwardly and diagonally from a center of the connection device. The connection device further comprises through hole sections integrated into truss coupling portions being configured at the end of each of the first intermediate portions. Moreover, the disclosed connection device has a bead-like stiffening structure integrated into the connection device and a first through hole section. The first through hole section is extending from an upper side (surface) of the connection device through the connection device to a bottom side (surface) of the connection device. The truss coupling portions are configured for being brought into contact with and being connected to open end portions of the truss module device.
[0007] CN 214 752 791 U discloses a foldable truss system in the technical field of display equipment. The foldable truss system is composed by truss module devices comprising square column frame elements as connection devices. The square column frame elements are fixed to a rigid connector device by means of four fixing elements. Thereby, the fixing elements comprise a handle portion. Each of the handle portions is embodied as a screw wheel.
[0008] The connection devices according to the prior art show disadvantages with regard to the stiffness of the connection devices and the durability. Moreover, the times for assembly are quite high. Thus, the user-comfort is reduced.Brief description of the disclosure
[0009] The tasks and objectives of the present disclosure are to eliminate or at least to reduce the disadvantages of the related art. In particular, a connection device shall be provided which has a high mechanical strength and enables a high user comfort due to short assembly times for adjacent truss module devices.
[0010] The tasks and objectives of the present disclosure are solved by a connection device and a system comprising a connection device and at least two truss module devices. In particular, the tasks and objectives of the present disclosure are solved by a connection device according to independent claim 1 and by a system according to the subsidiary claim. Advantageous embodiments are claimed in the dependent claims and / or are described in more detail below.
[0011] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to a connection device for connecting truss module devices / truss modules comprising: a ground element, the ground element comprising a first common portion having a first through hole section, oriented and / or arranged in a first plane. The ground element further comprises at least one first intermediate portion, extending radially outward from the first common portion and preferably essentially in a plane with the first common portion. Furthermore, the ground element comprises truss coupling portions extending radially outward from the first intermediate portion(s). The connection device further comprises a stiffening element being connected to the ground element and being configured to absorb and distribute forces, the stiffening element comprises a second through hole section, wherein the second through hole section is oriented and / or arranged in a second plane. The second plane is parallel to the first plane and spaced apart from the first plane in a first direction normal to the first plane (and the second plane). Further, the connection device comprises a fixing element having an handle portion and a connecting portion and being configured to connect a first truss module device at least indirectly, e.g. via a connector device or a connection cube, to a second truss module device, wherein the connecting portion is provided to extend through both the first through hole section and the second through hole section.
[0012] The connection device is a structural component being configured to connect two parts of a truss system, i.e. a truss exhibition stand. The connection device may connect or may be connected to the two parts by a form-fit and / or force-fit connection.
[0013] The connection device may be configured in total or in sections to connect or to be connected to the parts of the truss system by pressing in into the truss module device, by welding, by a screw element or by a magnetic element or by interlocking with the truss module device.
[0014] At least sections of the connection device may comprise or be configured to accommodate the aforementioned elements. Alternatively, at least sections of the connection device may be configured to be connected in the aforementioned way to the truss module devices.
[0015] The truss module device is a structural component being configured for establishing a support system for providing information (or for arranging technical equipment for presenting information).
[0016] The establishment of a support system for providing information may be realized by a geometrical construction with accommodated information devices. The truss module device may be a bar system with fixing hooks, a carrier system or support system with groove sections for inserting banners or displays, and / or an advertising pillar system with integrated information devices, whereby a stability is achieved by configuring the system with at least three interconnected rod elements, bar elements or frame elements. To provide user-comfort, the truss module device may be composed by multiple segments.
[0017] The truss module device comprises at least two truss module segment devices, comprising at least three (preferably four) hollow frame elements with open end portions at each end in the first direction, groove sections at the outer surface, square rod portions for connecting the hollow frame elements, insertion rod elements for insertion into the hollow frame elements, a connection device, rigid connector devices and optionally a connection cube, whereby the truss module device may be one-piece injection molded.
[0018] The ground element is a structural component being configured as part of the connection device or being essentially configured as the connection device. The ground element is configured for establishing a connection between! connecting the truss module devices and / or other elements of a truss system.
[0019] Moreover, the ground element may be configured as a mechanical basis for the connection device. The ground element may be formed in one-piece or as a segmented construction or part.
[0020] The ground element may be further manufactured by casting, deep drawing of sheet metal or cutting out of sheet material or additive manufacturing.
[0021] The ground element may be an essentially cruciform, triangular, square, beam- or frame-shaped metallic plate. Preferably, the ground element may essentially be a metal cross. A thickness and / or structure of the plate may be adapted to withstand the connecting and weight forces within the truss system. The ground element may comprise deep-drawn beads as supporting sections.
[0022] In the present disclosure, the term first common portion refers to a portion of the ground element, being configured as support and contact area of the ground element. The first common portion in form of the support and contact area may be formed integral and may comprise material volume extending in a first plane. In other words is the common portion arranged in the first plane.
[0023] In still other words, the first common portion may be an essential planar portion in a center of the ground element, forming a (metallurgical) basis of the ground element. The first common portion may be orientated in a first plane with a planar / flat extension. The first common portion may be circular-, rhombic-, ring- or trapezodial shaped and / or may comprise at least a closed contour / material volume.
[0024] The first through hole section is a section within the first common portion of the ground element. The first through hole section is configured for being penetrated, preferably in the first direction. The penetration may be achieved by cutting out, punching out, drilling or erosion a section out of the common portion. As an alternative, the section may be omitted during casting.
[0025] The first through hole section may exemplarily be centrally arranged within the first common portion. The first through hole section may be or have a circular hole.
[0026] The first intermediate portion is a portion of the ground element. The at least one first intermediate portion extends radially outward from the first common portion. The radial outward extension may have a beveled, a declining or an inclining course outgoing from the first common portion. Alternatively, the orientation of the first intermediate portion(s) may be essentially planar, i.e. orientated in the first plane.
[0027] The first intermediate portion may exemplarily be configured as arms of a metal cross extending from the first common portion. The orientation of the metal arms may further be beveled or comprising a declining or inclining course outgoing from the first common portion.
[0028] The truss coupling portions are portions of the ground element, which are configured to be connected to the truss module device. The connection to the truss module device may be established by joining technologies described for the connection device.
[0029] The stiffening element is a structural component, which is configured to increase the stiffness and strength of the connection device as well as to absorb and to distribute forces. The increase of stiffness and strength may be achieved by a geometrical design or a geometrical construction inherent to the stiffening element. The stiffening element may be a structure, a construction or a three-dimensional body which is assembled and connected with the ground element.
[0030] The stiffening element exemplarily may be a circular-segment like structural component connected to the ground element.
[0031] The second through hole section is a section within the stiffening element. The second through hole section is configured for providing an entry into to the connection device and for realizing accessibility to the first through hole section from the second through hole section.
[0032] The second through hole section may be penetrated, preferably in the first direction. The entry may be achieved by a recess, a cutting out, a borehole or drilled hole and as disclosed for the first through hole section.
[0033] The second through hole section may be or have a circular hole, being coaxially arranged towards the first through hole section.
[0034] The fixing element is a structural component, which is configured to connect the connection device with an element of the truss system and to be accessible and operated by a user. The connection may be achieved by a mechanical fixation.
[0035] The fixing element may exemplarily be a clamp with a screw.
[0036] The handle portion is a structural component, which is configured for actuating and / or handling. The actuation and / or handling may be achieved by an actuation portion, a locking portion, an arresting portion or a rotatable portion.
[0037] The handle portion may exemplarily be a hand wheel, a handhold, a knop or a clutch.
[0038] The handle portion is a user interface portion. I.e. the connection device may be transportable, positionable and / or rotatable by means of the handle portion.
[0039] The connecting portion is a portion of the fixing element, which is configured for establishing a connection between the connection device and another element of the truss system, e.g. a rigid connector device or a connection cube device. The connecting portion may further be configured to be activatable and / or keep the position.
[0040] The connection may be achieved by a clamping or screwing-in mechanism. The connecting portion may exemplarily be a screw attached to the connection device or attachable to the connection device and may extend, in a mounted state, through the connection device up to the other element of the truss system.
[0041] The first and the second truss module devices may be two adjacent truss module devices preferably following each other in the first direction, wherein the first truss module device may be connected to a rigid connector device via a / its connection device and the second truss module device may be connected to the rigid connector device via a / its connection device.
[0042] The male threaded section is a male thread end being exemplarily integrated into a portion of the connecting portion.
[0043] The stiffening element may comprise a contacting end portion. Preferably, the contacting end portion is further configured for being in contact with or accommodated in the ground element.
[0044] The contacting end portion is a portion of the stiffening element, being configured to be brought into contact to and / or to be connected to the ground element. The connection may be established by form-fit, material-fit or force-fit. Alternatively, the connection may be established by a fastening element. The contacting end portion may be an end portion of the stiffening element in a radial outward direction.
[0045] Due to the contacting end portion of the stiffening element, a defined positioning and fixing may be achieved. Thereby, the manufacturing and assembly of the stiffening element to the ground element may be simplified, reproducible and cost-efficient.
[0046] The contacting end portions are preferably insertable through recess portions arranged in the ground element.
[0047] The recess portion is a portion of the ground element, which is configured for accommodating at least sections of the stiffening element, preferably the contacting end portion(s).
[0048] The recess portion may exemplarily extend through the ground element in the first direction. The recess portion may be rectangular, preferably quadratic, in shape. The recess portion may further be configured for accommodating the contacting end portion of the stiffening element. The recess portion may be arranged in the first intermediate portion. Preferably, in case more than one of the first intermediate portions is formed, each of the intermediate portions may be configured with at least one recess portion.
[0049] The connection between the stiffening element and the ground element may be realized by form-fit. Alternatively or additionally, the connection may be realized by material-fit, preferably by means of welding. The welding joint is especially preferably provided between the (contacting) end portion and the ground element.
[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the ground element and the stiffening element are provided as separate elements, whereby the stiffening element may be connected / or connectable to the ground element.
[0051] In the present disclosure, the term separate elements refers to two structural components being materially independent to each other. The material independency may be preferably achieved by manufacturing of the elements apart from each other.
[0052] Due to the separate manufacturing, two main advantages can be realized. Firstly, different manufacturing technologies may be selected for the stiffening element and the ground element. Thereby, a comparable cost-efficient manufacturing can be realized.
[0053] Secondly, the ground element and the stiffening element may be made of different materials with different material properties. Thereby, a material design can be chosen separately, depending on the loads acting on the stiffening element and the ground element.
[0054] According to an alternative embodiment, the ground element and the stiffening element may be manufactured integrally by means of additive manufacturing or casting. In other words, the ground element and the stiffening element may be monolithically formed together.
[0055] In another aspect, the first through hole section and the second through hole section may be arranged coaxially.
[0056] In other words a middle axis / fiber of the first through hole section may correspond to or may be a middle axis / fiber of the second through hole section. I.e. the first plane through the first through hole section and the second plane through the second through hole section are parallel to each other.
[0057] Due to the coaxial arrangement the fixing element is integrable / insertable through both, the first through hole section and the second through hole section. The second through hole section may be configured as an entry into the connection device. The first through hole section may be configured as an exit out of the connection device. The terms entry and exit refer to sections being configured for accommodating sections of the connection device.
[0058] In another aspect, the second through hole section and the first through hole section are arranged with a first distance in between in direction of the first direction normal to the first plane, which is smaller than a longitudinal extension of the connecting portion of the fixing element.
[0059] In other words, a pre-defined first distance between the first through hole section and the second through hole section can be formed.
[0060] Due to the pre-defined distance, it can be realized that first pre-defined portions of the fixing element can be accommodated in between the first through hole section and the second through hole section.
[0061] The first pre-defined portions may be a shaft section and / or a locknut element of the connecting portion of the fixing element.
[0062] Further, second pre-defined portions of the fixing element can be arranged in a pre-defined position outside of the connection device. I.e., in negative orientation of the first direction apart from a side of the ground element facing away from the stiffening element.
[0063] The shaft section may be a structural component being configured to absorb shear forces and extend in the first direction into the male threaded section of the connecting portion of the fixing element.
[0064] The second pre-defined portion may be the male threaded section of the connecting portion of the fixing element. Due to the position of the male threaded section, it can be realized that the male threaded section can be connected to a counterpart and can be fixed with the counterpart.
[0065] The absorbing of shear forces and the extending into the first direction may be realized by a solid or rigid structure component with a rotationally symmetrically cross-section. The shaft section may exemplarily be a stud or a screw-shaft section.
[0066] The locknut element may be a structural component being fixed on the male threaded section of the connecting portion of the fixing element. The fixation can be realized by a form- or force-fit connection. The locknut element may be a screw nut element with an inner female thread / a female threaded section.
[0067] The connection device may be connected by means of the male threaded section screwed-in into the female threaded section using the handle portion and the connecting portion of the fixing element. The female threaded section may be provided in a rigid central portion of the rigid connector device or the connection cube device. The rigid connector device and the connection cube device are configured to be connected to at least one adjacent truss module device.
[0068] The connection cube device may be a cubic structural component, i.e. a cube shaped element, which may be connected to the truss module device by means of the connection device. The connection cube device may be connected to up to six truss module devices, i.e. one truss module device per each side of the connection cube device. By connecting the truss module devices to the connection cube device, changes in direction and corners may be realized within the truss system.
[0069] The rigid connector device may be a structural component being configured to be arranged in between of two adjacent truss module devices. I.e. the rigid connector device may contact a first truss module device and a second, adjacent, truss module device.
[0070] Preferably, the rigid connector device may have a dimple section, which can be inserted into open end portions of the truss module devices.
[0071] The dimple section may protrude from the rigid connector device in the first direction in both the positive and the negative orientation. I.e. the rigid connector device is configured with the dimple section in each, the positive and negative orientation of the first direction.
[0072] The hollow frame element may comprise the ground shape, i.e. frame, of the truss module segment devices and thereby the truss module devices. The hollow frame elements are orientated and extend in the first direction. The hollow frame elements comprise a cylindric, i.e. tubic, cross section.
[0073] At a first and a second end of the truss module device, i.e. in negative and positive orientation of the first direction, the hollow frame elements comprise open end portions. The number of open end portions depends on the number of hollow frame elements of the truss module device. At least three, preferably four hollow frame elements are comprised. The hollow frame elements may form a triangular or quadratic cross section of the truss module device. Following the outer contour of the truss module device, i.e. the cross section, adjacent hollow frame elements are connected to each other by means of square rod portions comprised on an outer surface.
[0074] The hollow frame elements may comprise groove sections for insertion and accommodation of silicon edge graphics (SEG). The open end portions comprise hollow volume portions which are configured for accommodation of structure components like dimple sections preferably of the rigid connector device.
[0075] According to a preferred embodiment, the fixing element is configured to be tensioned by a spring element.
[0076] In other words, sections of the fixing element (e.g. handle portion) may contact the side of the stiffening element facing away from the ground element. The fixing element, i.e. the contacting portion, may extend through the connection device, in particular through the stiffening element and the ground element. The male threaded section may be screwed-in into the rigid connector device. The position is fixed. The fixing element is tensioned, i.e. in a fixed and defined position, by the spring element.
[0077] Therefore, the handle portion of the fixing element may contact the side of the stiffening element facing away from the ground element, the connecting portion of the fixing element extends through the connection device and the male threaded section of the connecting portion may be screwed-in into a rigid connector device.
[0078] The truss coupling portions may be oriented in a third plane. The third plane may be spaced apart from the first plane and the second plane in the first direction.
[0079] In other words, a pre-defined distance between the first common portion and the truss coupling portions can be realized.
[0080] Due to the pre-defined distance, the space between the first common portion and the truss coupling portions can be adapted in a way that a counterpart for the male threaded section of the connecting portion of the fixing element may be arranged in said distance. Thereby, a fixing of the connection device to the rigid connector device or a connection cube device can be realized.
[0081] According to another aspect, the stiffening element may comprise the at least one, preferably four, second intermediate portions. The second intermediate portions may be connected in a second common portion. The second intermediate portions may extend separately from each other radially outward from the second common portion and in a direction towards the ground element. Radially outwards means in radial direction outgoing from a center point of the second common portion. Preferably, in the direction of the radius of the second through hole section.
[0082] The second common portion may be a portion of the stiffening element comprising the second through hole section, wherein the second through hole section is preferably arranged in a center position of the second common portion. The second common portion is preferably arranged parallel to the first common portion. The second common portion may be configured to be contacted by at least the handle portion of the fixing element.
[0083] The direction towards the ground element is that the direction of extension is set by a plurality of direction components. The plurality of direction components defines a direction vector. The direction vector comprises at least one dimension that extends in the direction towards the ground element.
[0084] Outgoing from the second common portion, the forces may be distributed to the at least one, preferably four, second intermediate portions (structure portions). I.e. the forces may be transferred to and preferably be equally divided between and distributed to the second intermediate portions. Due to the transmission of the forces induced to a plurality of second intermediate portions, a force distribution may be realized. More precisely, a radially outwardly orientated distribution of the forces can be realized.
[0085] The second intermediate portions may further be portions arranged in a pre-defined structure / a three dimensional geometry. Thereby, each of the second intermediate portions is, preferably integrally, connected to the second common portion. The three dimensional geometry is configured to absorb forces, to distribute forces and to dissipate forces from a point of force application.
[0086] By means of the fixing element brought into contact with preferably the second common portion of the stiffening element, clamping forces may be transferred to the connecting device. I.e. the clamping forces may be transferred from a screw head section and preferably the handle portion to the second common portion of the stiffening element. Preferably, the force, i.e. the load, may be caused by the connecting portion being in contact with the first common portion and preferably being screwed in a rigid connector device.
[0087] Due to the mechanical connection of the stiffening element, the ground element and the truss module device, the forces may be transmitted to the truss module device. The connection device is strengthened by the distribution of forces in between the second intermediate portions configured as structure portions.
[0088] The induction of forces from the second intermediate portion into the ground element may be in a radially outwards position. I.e. the distance of the force induction point into the ground element is preferably realized in a location which is located at a maximum (radial) distance from the first through hole section. Thereby, the connection device is further strengthened.
[0089] In another aspect, the stiffening element may support and be contacted by sections of the fixing element.
[0090] In other words, the fixing element and the stiffening element are mechanically connected. The handle portion and / or preferably sections of the connecting portion may be configured to be supported by the stiffening element. I.e. forces can be distributed from the fixing element into the stiffening element.
[0091] According to a preferred embodiment, the ground element and the stiffening element are each configured as integral parts. In other words, the ground element and / or the stiffening element may each be monolithic.
[0092] The ground element and the stiffening element may be manufactured / formed separately. Thereby an extended freedom of selection of manufacturing methods and materials can be realized for each of the two elements.
[0093] In another aspect, the fixing element comprises the handle portion surrounding a screw head section and a shaft section of the connecting portion.
[0094] The screw head section may be configured to be rotated by a power tool. Due to the connection of the screw head section and the shaft section, rotational moments may be transmitted. The connecting portion may be turned.
[0095] In another aspect, the connection device may comprise a contacting structure on the outer side of the ground element facing away from the stiffening element. The contacting structure is a structural element being configured to contact sections of the rigid connector device or the connection cube device. Moreover, the contacting structure is configured for supporting the connection device on the rigid connector device or the connection cube device.
[0096] The connecting and supporting may be realized by essentially incompressible structural components extending between the side of the ground element facing away from the stiffening element and the surface of a rigid connector device / a connection cube device preferably being orientated towards the ground element.
[0097] The contacting structure may be or comprise pin portions! studs being fixed at the side of the ground element facing away from the stiffening element or being connected to this side by material-fit, form-fit or force-fit (e.g. gluing, welding, pressing-in, molding).
[0098] Due to this, the connection device is supported against the adjacent parts. I.e. the connection device is supported against the rigid connector device or the connection cube device. Due to the preferably symmetrically arranged structure an even support of the connection device is realized.
[0099] Thereby, an increased strength may be realized. Moreover, an increased capacity of bearing loads can be realized.
[0100] According to the present disclosure, the connecting portion may comprise a shaft section, which preferably may extend between the screw head section and the male threaded section.
[0101] In another aspect, the connecting portion may comprise a spring element.
[0102] The spring element is a compressible element which may be pre-stressed / pre-tensioned in dependence on the pitch of the spring element and thereby a spring rate. In the pre-stressed / pre-tensioned state, the spring element may be configured to hold the locknut element in its position.
[0103] According to a preferred embodiment, the connection device may be housed, at least section-wise, with injection-molded polymeric material and / or to be filled, at least section-wise, with injection-molded polymeric material. In other words, the connection device may comprise a housing, preferably a housing made of injection-molded polymeric material.
[0104] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure also relates to a system comprising a connection device and a truss module device being configured for being connected to a connection cube device or a rigid connector device. The rigid connector device may comprise rigid end portions. The truss coupling portions are configured for being connected to the rigid end portions.
[0105] The rigid end portions are configured to be inserted through truss coupling portions and into the open end portions of the truss module device.
[0106] In a further aspect, which may also be claimed independently, the present disclosure further relates to a plastic, preferably in-molded, connection device. The connection device comprises a ground element being configured with truss coupling portions, a first through hole section, a first common portion and at least one first intermediate portion. The connection device is plastic in-molded. That is, that the connection device is housed, at least section-wise, with, preferably injection-molded, polymeric material and / or is filled, at least section-wise, with, preferably injection-molded, polymeric material. According to this aspect, the stiffening element may be provided, however does not necessarily need to be provided in the connection device.
[0107] In other words, the polymer in-molded connection device comprises a polymeric housing portion and / or a polymeric support structure portion.
[0108] Polymeric housing portion means that the connection device, in particular the ground element, is, at least partly, surrounded by a polymeric material. The polymeric housing portion may be configured as a polymeric coating.
[0109] The polymeric housing portion may comprise a (wall) thickness of a pre-defined value. The wall thickness preferably may be defined / measured by the distance from a surface of the ground element orientated towards the polymeric coating to a surface of the polymeric housing portion.
[0110] The polymeric housing portion may reproduce the outer contour of other elements of the connection device, in particular the ground element and preferably also the stiffening element, essentially. The polymeric housing portion may comprise a first housing through hole, i.e. an extraction section, in at least the first through hole section. Further, the polymeric housing portion may comprise a second housing through hole, i.e. an extraction section, in the second through hole portion.
[0111] The polymeric support structure portion is a polymeric volume being comprised as a filling of the connection device. I.e. the polymeric volume being limited by sections of the ground portion and / or sections of the stiffening portion. In other words, the polymeric support structure portion may be comprised within the connection device.
[0112] The connection device additionally may comprise a stiffening structure and a fixing element. The fixing element may be configured with a handle portion and a connecting portion.
[0113] The stiffening structure is a structure, which is configured for stiffening the connection device. This stiffening structure may be integrally integrated into the connection device or may be configured as a separate structure being connected to the connection device.
[0114] According to the present disclosure, the stiffening structure may be configured as a stiffening element as described in detail above.
[0115] The stiffening structure may comprise rip or arm portions. I.e. the stiffening structure may not be a closed structure element with a closed volume, but may comprise rip portions or arm portions extending from the (second) common portion radially outwards towards the ground element.
[0116] According to the present disclosure, the polymeric support structure portion may comprise a through hole volume portion. The through hole volume portion may be orientated coaxially towards the first through hole section and the second through hole section. The through hole volume portion may be rotationally symmetrical with respect to the coaxial axis through the through hole volume portion in the first direction.
[0117] According to the present disclosure, the connecting portion may be configured for being inserted through at least the first through hole section and the first housing through hole section. In another aspect, the connecting portion may additionally be configured for being inserted through the second through hole section and the second housing through hole section.
[0118] According to the present disclosure, the spring element may have a first contact section, which may be arranged in the polymeric housing portion or the stiffening element. The first contact section may be on an inner surface of the polymeric housing portion or the stiffening element. I.e. on an inner surface, which may be orientated into the connection device.
[0119] According to the present disclosure, the spring element may have a second contact section, which may be comprised by the locknut element. I.e. the second contact section may be comprised by a surface of the locknut element, which may be orientated into the connection device.
[0120] According to the present disclosure, the through hole volume portion may comprise changes in its diameter throughout its extension in the first direction. Preferably, the changes in diameter reflect the contour of the fixing element. Preferably, the through hole volume portion may comprise a first sub-volume portion, which may accommodate the locknut element. The first sub-volume portion may further allow a movement of the locknut element in the first direction facing away from the ground element.
[0121] According to the present disclosure, a second sub-volume portion may be provided. The second sub-volume portion may be comprised in the first direction (positive orientation) adjacent the first sub-volume portion. The second sub-volume portion may be configured to accommodate sections of the shaft portion and / or the spring element. Preferably, the second sub-volume portion may be configured with a diameter, which is smaller than the diameter of the first sub-volume portion. Preferably, due to the smaller diameter of the second sub-portion, the movement of the locknut element in the first direction towards the stiffening element may be limited.
[0122] According to the present disclosure, the male threaded section of the connecting portion may be configured to be inserted into the female threaded section of a counterpart.
[0123] According to the present disclosure, the term counterpart refers to a rigid nut section with the female threaded section of the rigid central portion of the rigid connector device according to the present disclosure.
[0124] In a further aspect, which may also be claimed independently, the present disclosure further relates to a connection device having a fixing element and a spring element. The connection device comprises a ground element being configured with truss coupling portions, a first through hole section, a first common portion and at least one first intermediate portion. The fixing element is configured with a handle portion and a connecting portion, wherein the connecting portion is provided to extend through the first through hole section. The connection device comprises the spring element. The spring element is arranged around the connecting portion and is provided and configured to hold the fixing element in a predetermined (and pretensioned) position relative to the ground element.
[0125] The spring element is a compressible element which may be pre-stressed / pre-tensioned in dependence on the pitch of the spring element and thereby a spring rate.
[0126] In one aspect, the spring element can abut against a stop spaced from the ground element and against a shaft shoulder or a locknut element of the fixing element.
[0127] The stop may, be formed on a stiffening element according to one of the above aspects, a sleeve flanged or connected to the ground element or a polymeric housing according to one of the above aspects.
[0128] In the pre-stressed / pre-tensioned state, the spring element may be configured to hold the fixing element via the locknut element in its position.Brief description of the figures
[0129] The disclosure is explained in more detail below using preferred embodiments and referring to the accompanying figures. Fig. 1is a perspective view of a connection device in a first embodiment according to the present disclosure; Fig. 2is a top view of the connection device in the first embodiment according to the present disclosure; Fig. 3is a side view of the connection device in the first embodiment according to the present disclosure; Fig. 4is a bottom view of the connection device in the first embodiment according to the present disclosure; Fig. 5is a perspective view of a connection device being polymeric in-molded in a second embodiment according to the present disclosure; Fig. 6is a top view of the connection device being polymeric in-molded in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure; Fig. 7is a cross sectional side view through the connection device being polymeric in-molded, cut along section VIII in Fig. 7 in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure; Fig. 8is a bottom view of the in-molded connection device in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure; Fig. 9is a perspective view of the in-molded connection device in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure assembled at open end portions of a truss module device; Fig. 10is a perspective view of a rigid connector device of the system according to the present disclosure; Fig. 11is a bottom / front view of a rigid connector device of the system according to the present disclosure; Fig. 12is a side view of the rigid connector device of the system according to the present disclosure; and Fig. 13a perspective view of the system for exhibition according to present disclosure.
[0130] The figures are schematic in nature and serve only to understand the disclosure. Identical elements are marked with the same reference signs. The features of the different embodiments can be interchanged among each other.Detailed description of preferred embodiments
[0131] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a connection device 1 according to the present disclosure in a first embodiment. The connection device 1 is configured for application in a (truss) system 40. The connection device 1 comprises a ground element 2 and a stiffening element 3. The ground element 2 has an essentially planar geometry. The ground element 2 comprises a plurality of structure elements, i.e. portions and sub-portions, integrally connected to each other. The main portions and sections are from a center radially outwards: a first through hole section 4, a first common portion 5, four first intermediate portions 6, four transition sections 7 and four truss coupling portions 8.
[0132] The first through hole section 4 is arranged in a center of the connection device 1 in the first common portion 5. The four first intermediate portions 6 are configured as arms / in an arm shape and extend outwardly from the first common portion 5 in a first plane 9. The first plane 9 is defined by a plane in which the first through hole section 4 and the first common portion 5 are orientated / positioned. I.e. the plane of the longitudinal extension of the first common portion 5. A first direction 10 is defined normal on the first plane 9 extending towards the stiffening element 3. The orientation of the first direction 10 is positive in the direction towards the stiffening element 3. The orientation of the first direction 10 is negative in an opposite direction to the positive direction.
[0133] Each of the four first intermediate portions 6 transits into one of the transition sections 7. Each of the transition sections 7 has an s-shaped geometry. Each of the transition sections 7 extends into one of the truss coupling portions 8. The truss coupling portions 8 are arranged offset from the first plane 9 in the negative first direction 10. By means of each of the transition sections 7, a transition in height is realized. I.e. a transition from the first plane 9 in the first direction 10 in negative orientation is realized by the design of the transition section 7.
[0134] Each of the truss coupling portions 8 is configured with an open end portion 12. Each of the first intermediate portions 6 comprises one recess portion 11. The recess portions 11 are rectangular shaped. Each of the truss coupling portions 8 is configured for being connected to the open end portion 12 of a truss module device 13, precisely the open end portion 12 of a truss module segment device 14 and / or a rigid connector device 15 (not shown in Fig. 1, therefore see Fig. 13). Each of the recess portions 11 is configured for portion wise accommodation of the stiffening element 3. A height of the transition section 7, i.e. the distance in the first direction 10 between each of the truss coupling portions 8 and the first common portion 5 is configured in dependence on a height of the rigid connector device 15 (not shown in Fig. 1, therefore see Fig. 10). The truss coupling portions 8 are arranged in a third plane 16, which is in the first direction 10 apart from the first plane 9 and a second plane 17. In the second plane 17 a second through hole section 18 of the stiffening element 3 is orientated.
[0135] The stiffening element 3 is concavely shaped. The stiffening element 3 is semi-spherically arranged on top of the ground element 2. The stiffening element 3 is configured with four main portions. These are the second through hole section 18, a second common portion 19, four second intermediate portions 20 and four contacting end portions 21.
[0136] The second through hole section 18 and the first through hole section 4 are coaxially arranged in a pre-defined space apart from each other.
[0137] The second through hole section 18 is arranged in the second common portion 19. The second common portion 19 is essentially planar. The four second intermediate portions 20 are configured as arms and extend from the second common portion 19 outwardly and in a pre-defined curved course and angle with regard to the first common portion 5, i.e. showing a curved course. In particular, Fig. 1 shows an essentially circular arc-shape in different directions towards the ground element 2. I.e. two opposite second intermediate portions 20 define an essentially semi-circular segment.
[0138] The four second intermediate portions 20 and the first intermediate portions 6 extend with regard to a radial / diagonal direction parallel to each other, comprising a common volume in between. The four second intermediate portions 20 each extend into contacting end portions 21. Each of the contacting end portions 21 is bent towards the recess portion 11 provided in the corresponding, i.e. radially parallel, first intermediate portions 6 of the ground element 2. Each of the contacting end portions 21 is inserted into and through the recess portion 11 of the corresponding first intermediate portion 6. I.e. the stiffening element 3 and the ground element 2 are form-fit connected by the contacting end portions 21 inserted under pressure into the recess portions 11. The form-fit connection is shown in a side view in Fig. 3. In addition or alternatively to the form-fit connection, the stiffening element 3 and the ground element 2 are preferably welded to each other in the area where the contacting end portions 21 are inserted into the recess portions 11.
[0139] The connection device 1 interacts with the open end portions 12 of the truss module devices 13, i.e. the truss module segment devices 14 (not shown in Fig. 1, therefore see Fig. 9), the rigid connector device 15 and a fixing element 24 (the structure elements are not shown in Fig. 1, therefore see Fig. 13).
[0140] Fig. 2 shows a top view of the connection device 1 in the first embodiment according to the present disclosure. Fig. 2 shows additionally, that the second intermediate portions 20 are configured with a reduced width, compared to the first intermediate portions 6. The second intermediate portions 20 are configured for absorbing forces and distributing forces applied by means of the fixing element 24 (not shown in Fig. 2, see Fig. 7).
[0141] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the connection device 1 in the first embodiment according to the present disclosure. Fig. 3 shows the contacting end portions 21 of the stiffening element 3 being inserted in and through the recess portions 11 of the ground element 2. The contacting end portions 21 are angled by an angle of approximately 90° towards the first plane 9 through the first through hole section 4, i.e. in the second (negative) direction. The ends of the contacting end portions 21 protrude beyond the end of the recess portions 11. Due to the insertion of the contacting end portions 21, the form-fit connection mentioned in the description of Fig. 1 is realized and shown in further detail in Fig. 3. Preferably, besides the form fit connection, a material-fit connection is realized by welding preferably each of the first intermediate portions 6 in the section close to the recess portion 11 to a contacting end portion 21.
[0142] Fig. 4 is a bottom view of the connection device 1 in the first embodiment according to the present disclosure. Fig. 4 shows the cross-section of the four recess portions 11 of the ground element 2. Within the recess portions 11 the contacting end portions 21 are accommodated. The contacting end portions 21 have a trapezoidal geometry. Fig. 4 shows the extended diameter of the first through hole section 4 compared to the central second through hole section 18 within the second common portion 19.
[0143] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the connection device 1 in a second embodiment according to the present disclosure. The ground element 2 and the stiffening element 3 of the second embodiment are polymeric in-molded, thereby forming an intersection portion 22. I.e. the intersection portion 22 comprises the connection device 1. In other words, the connection device 1 is surrounded by a polymeric housing portion 23. The polymeric housing portion 23 essentially reproduces the outer contour of the stiffening element 3, the first common portion 5 and the transition section 7. Thus, the intersection portion 22 comprises the portions and sections of the connection device 1 analogously.
[0144] Fig. 5 additionally depicts a first portion of a fixing element 24, i.e. a handle portion 25 embodied as a screw wheel. The fixing element 24 with its two portions, i.e. the handle portion 25 and a connecting portion 26 is shown in more detail in Fig. 8 by means of a cross section along curve VIII.
[0145] Fig. 6 is a top view of the connection device 1 in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure. In combination of Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 it is apparent, that the truss coupling portions 8 and an essentially planar section 27 of the transition sections 7 are not polymer in-molded.
[0146] Fig. 7 is a cross sectional side view through the connection device 1 being polymeric in-molded, cut along section VIII in Fig. 5 in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure. Fig. 7 shows the geometry of the polymeric housing portion 23 and the composition of the fixing element 24 in more detail. The polymeric housing portion 23 is configured with a plurality of pin portions 28 beneath the polymeric housed section of the ground element 2. Each of the pin portions 28 is arranged in a section beneath a pre-defined section of the in-molded ground element 2, in particular a section beneath the first common portion 5, the recess portion 11 and a section of the transition section 7. The position of the pin portion 28 is set in dependence on and in accordance with the position of a stop section 29 configured at the rigid connector device 15 (not shown in Fig. 7, therefore see Fig. 10). Each of the plurality of pin portions 28 is configured with a blind hole section 30.
[0147] Fig. 7 shows the intersection portion 22 filled with a polymeric support structure. The polymeric support structure forms a polymeric support structure portion 31. A through hole volume portion 32 is omitted within the polymeric support structure portion 31. The through hole volume portion 32 extends through the intersection portion 22. I.e. the through hole volume portion 32 extends through a first housing through hole of the polymeric housing portion 23, the second through hole section 18, the polymeric support structure portion 31, the first through hole section 4 and a second housing through hole of the polymeric housing portion 23. The second housing through hole, i.e. extraction section, is located in the negative first direction 10 by reference to the first housing through hole, i.e. extraction section. The through hole volume portion 32 comprises a discontinuous geometry. The discontinuous geometry is preferably pre-defined by the fixing element 24.
[0148] Fig. 7 shows the handle portion 25 of the fixing element 24 contacting a connecting portion 26. The fixing element 24 comprises a screw head section 33, which is embodied as a hexagon screw section, a shaft section 34 and a male threaded section 35. On the male threaded section 35 in the interface to the shaft section 34, a locknut element 36 is arranged. The section of the locknut element 36 being orientated towards the shaft portion 34 is configured as a second contact section 37 of a spring element 38. A first contact section 39 of the spring element 38 is configured by the polymeric housing portion 23 in a section housing of the second common portion 19. The spring element 38 is pre-tensioned in between the first contact section 39 and the second contact section 37. The locknut element 36 extends through the first common portion 5. The male threaded section 35 is positioned in the negative orientation of the first direction 10, beneath the first common portion 5. The male threaded section 35 is supported in its position by means of the tensioned spring element 38 during screwing the connecting portion 26 into a counterpart. The counterpart is embodied as female threaded section 48 in a rigid nut section 49 of the rigid connector device 15 (not shown in Fig. 7, therefore see Fig. 10). For a movement of the locknut element 36 into the first direction 10 in positive orientation, the stop section 29 is provided within a section of the polymeric support structure portion 31.
[0149] Fig. 8 is a bottom view of the connection device 1 in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure. Fig. 8 depicts the arrangement and the design of the pin portions 28 in more detail. The pin portions 28 are arranged symmetrically on, in the negative orientation of the first direction 10, lower side of the polymeric housing portion 23 of the connection device 1. Each of the pin portions 28 is arranged at the polymeric housing portion 23 in a section, which is housing the first intermediate portions 6. Each of the pin portions 28 is positioned at a separate first intermediate portion 6. I.e. each of the pin portions 28 is positioned at a separate arm of the connection device 1. Each of the pin portions 28 comprises an injection-molded reinforcing structure. The reinforcing structure is embodied as four ribs extending from an outer surface of the pin portion 28.
[0150] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a system 40 with an (in-molded) connection device 1 in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure positioned on open end portions 12 of a truss module device 13. The truss module device 13 is configured with four hollow frame elements 41. Each of the hollow frame elements 41 comprises a first groove section 42 and a second groove section 43 at the outer surface. The groove sections 42, 43 are arranged rectangular and are orientated towards each other. I.e. the enclosed angle between the groove sections 42, 43 is preferably 90°. The groove sections 42, 43 are configured for accommodating silicon edges of Silicon Edge Graphics (SEG) (not shown in Fig. 9).
[0151] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a rigid connector device 15 of a system 40 according to the present disclosure. The rigid connector device 15 has a ground portion 44 with a cruciform shape including four arms. Each of the arms is extending from a center towards an end section. The arms are integrally connected to or formed with the ground body portion 44. The ground body portion 44 is cruciform shaped and comprises a rigid central portion 45, four rigid intermediate portions 46 and four rigid end portions 47. The rigid central portion 45, the rigid intermediate portion 46 and the rigid end portion 47 are integrally inserted into the ground body portion 44.
[0152] The rigid central portion 45 is configured with a female threaded section 48 inserted in a rigid nut section 49. The rigid nut section 49 is in-molded into the rigid connector device 15. The rigid intermediate portions 46 are circular shaped and form an integral portion within the rigid connector device 15. Each of the rigid intermediate portions 46 is provided with a rigid blind hole section 50. Each of the rigid blind hole sections 50 is configured for accommodating one of the pin portions 28 (not shown in Fig. 10, therefore see Fig. 8) of the connection device 1 being polymeric in-molded, from a first and a second side of the rigid connector device 15. The rigid end portions 47 are configured with dimple sections 51 in the first direction 10. The dimple sections 51 are configured for being inserted through through holes in the truss coupling portions 8 and for being inserted in the open end portions 12 of the hollow frame elements 41 of the truss module segment device 14 / truss module device 13. I.e. the dimple sections 51 are arranged on a first and a second side in the first direction 10. I.e. in positive and negative orientation of the first direction 10.
[0153] The rigid end portion 47 is configured with third groove sections 52 and fourth groove sections 53. The third groove section 52 and the fourth groove section 53 are configured as extensions of the first groove sections 42 and the second groove sections 43 of at least one truss module device 13 (not shown in Fig. 10, therefore see Fig. 13).
[0154] Fig. 11 is a bottom / front view of a rigid connector device 15 of a system 40 according to the present disclosure. Going ahead of Fig. 10 the geometry of the rigid central portion 45, the four intermediate portions 46 and the four rigid end portions 47 are shown in more detail. The rigid central portion 45 has a cruciform shape and extends radially outwards. Each of the rigid end portions 47 comprises a round ground shape. Thereon third and fourth groove sections 52, 53 are arranged. Each of the third and fourth groove sections 52, 53 form together a hollow frame edge section 54 with an open space 55 in the first direction 10 in between.
[0155] Fig. 12 is a side view of the rigid connector device 15 of the system 40 according to the present disclosure. The rigid central portion 45 protrudes from the cruciform ground body portion 44 in positive and negative orientation of the first direction 10. Thus, the rigid central portion 45 is comprised by two separate sections. Each of the sections of the rigid central portion 45 comprises the rigid nut section 49 with the female threaded section 48. Both of the sections are configured to accommodate the male threaded section 35 of separate, mirror-symmetrically arranged connection devices 1 (not shown in Fig. 12, therefore see Fig. 13).
[0156] The rigid intermediate portion 46 is preferably part of the cruciform ground body portion 44. I.e. the rigid intermediate portion 46 is in line with the cruciform ground body portion 44. The rigid intermediate portion 46 is comprised by two sections in positive and negative orientation of the first direction 10. Each of the rigid intermediate portions 46 is configured to be contacted by one of the pin portions 28 of the connection device 1 (not shown in Fig. 12, therefore see Fig. 7 or Fig. 8) according the second embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0157] The rigid end portions 47 are comprised by two mirror-symmetrical arranged identical sections. The two sections protrude from the cruciform ground body portion 44 in the positive and negative orientation of the first direction 10. Each of the sections of the rigid end portion 47 is configured with the dimple sections 51. The dimple sections 51 are foreseen for insertion into the open end portions 12 of the truss module segment device 14 / the truss module device 13.
[0158] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the (truss) system 40 for exhibition. The system comprises the truss module devices 13 being comprised by truss module segment devices 14. The truss module devices 13 comprise four hollow frame elements 41. Each of the hollow frame elements 41 comprises open end portions 12 at the two geometric ends of the truss module devices 13 in the first direction 10. I.e. each of the truss module devices 13 comprises open end portions 12. Two truss module devices 13 are connected to each other by means of a connection device 1. Each of the truss module devices 13 comprises two connection devices 1. Each of the two connection devices 1 is connected to one of the two ends of the truss module device 13. More precisely, each of the connection devices 1 is connected to the open end portions 12 of the truss module devices 13. Due to the orientation of the two ends of each of the truss module devices 13 in opposite directions, the connection devices 1 are arranged mirror-symmetrically to each other. Each of the truss module devices 13 is connected at least with one connection device 1 to the rigid connector device 15 or the connection cube device 56.List of reference signs
[0159] 1connection device 2ground element 3stiffening element 4first through hole section 5first common portion 6first intermediate portion 7transition section 8truss coupling portion 9first plane 10first direction 11recess portion 12open end portion 13truss module device 14truss module segment device 15rigid connector device 16third plane 17second plane 18second through hole section 19second common portion 20second intermediate portion / structure portions 21contacting end portion 22intersection portion 23polymeric housing portion 24fixing element 25handle portion / user interface portion / actuation portion 26connecting portion 27essentially planar section 28pin portion 29stop section 30blind hole section 31polymeric support structure portion 32through hole volume portion 33screw head section / hexagon screw section 34shaft section 35male threaded section 36locknut element 37second contact section / second end stop section 38spring element 39first contact section / first end stop section 40system 41hollow frame element 42first groove section 43second groove section 44ground body portion 45rigid central portion 46rigid intermediate portion 47rigid end portion 48female threaded section 49rigid nut section 50rigid blind hole section 51dimple section 52third groove section 53fourth groove section 54hollow frame edge section 55open space 56connection cube device
Examples
first embodiment
[0131]Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a connection device 1 according to the present disclosure in a The connection device 1 is configured for application in a (truss) system 40. The connection device 1 comprises a ground element 2 and a stiffening element 3. The ground element 2 has an essentially planar geometry. The ground element 2 comprises a plurality of structure elements, i.e. portions and sub-portions, integrally connected to each other. The main portions and sections are from a center radially outwards: a first through hole section 4, a first common portion 5, four first intermediate portions 6, four transition sections 7 and four truss coupling portions 8.
[0132]The first through hole section 4 is arranged in a center of the connection device 1 in the first common portion 5. The four first intermediate portions 6 are configured as arms / in an arm shape and extend outwardly from the first common portion 5 in a first plane 9. The first plane 9 is defined by a plane in w...
second embodiment
[0145]Fig. 6 is a top view of the connection device 1 in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure. In combination of Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 it is apparent, that the truss coupling portions 8 and an essentially planar section 27 of the transition sections 7 are not polymer in-molded.
[0146]Fig. 7 is a cross sectional side view through the connection device 1 being polymeric in-molded, cut along section VIII in Fig. 5 in the second embodiment according to the present disclosure. Fig. 7 shows the geometry of the polymeric housing portion 23 and the composition of the fixing element 24 in more detail. The polymeric housing portion 23 is configured with a plurality of pin portions 28 beneath the polymeric housed section of the ground element 2. Each of the pin portions 28 is arranged in a section beneath a pre-defined section of the in-molded ground element 2, in particular a section beneath the first common portion 5, the recess portion 11 and a section of the transition sect...
Claims
1. A connection device (1) for connecting truss module devices (14) comprising: a ground element (2), comprising: a first common portion (5) having a first through hole section (4) oriented in a first plane (9), at least one first intermediate portion (6) extending radially outward from the first common portion (5), truss coupling portions (8) extending radially outward from the first intermediate portion or portions (6); a stiffening element (3) being connected to the ground element (2) and configured to absorb and distribute forces, the stiffening element (3) comprising a second through hole section (18), wherein the second through hole section (18) is oriented in a second plane (17), the second plane (17) being parallel to the first plane (9) and spaced apart from the first plane (9) in a first direction (10) normal to the first plane (9); and a fixing element (24) comprising an handle portion (25) and a connecting portion (26), wherein the connecting portion (26) is provided to extend through the first through hole section (4) and the second through hole section (18).
2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the stiffening element (3) comprises an end portion (21) accommodated in the ground element (2).
3. The connection device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ground element (2) and the stiffening element (3) are separate elements, whereby the stiffening element (3) is connected to the ground element (2) via welding.
4. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the first through hole section (4) and the second through hole section (18) are configured coaxially.
5. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein the second through hole section (18) and the first through hole section (4) are configured with a first distance in a first direction (10), which is smaller than a longitudinal extension of the connecting portion (26) of the fixing element (24).
6. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the fixing element (24) is configured to be tensioned by a spring element (38).
7. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 6, wherein the truss coupling portions (8) are oriented in a third plane (16), the third plane (16) is spaced apart from the first plane (9) in the first direction (10).
8. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein the stiffening element (3) is composed by second intermediate portions (20) being connected to each other in a second common portion (19) and being configured to extend separately from each other radial outwardly from the second common portion (19) and in a direction towards the ground element (2).
9. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 8, wherein the stiffening element (3) supports and is contacted by sections of the fixing element (24).
10. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein the ground element (2) and the stiffening element (3) are each configured as integral parts.
11. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 10, wherein the handle portion (25) of the fixing element (24) surrounds the connecting portion (26) and comprises a screw head section (33).
12. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 11, wherein the fixing element (24) comprises a spring element (38) surrounding the connecting portion (26) at least in sections.
13. The connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 12, wherein the connection device (1) is configured to be housed section-wise with injection-molded polymeric material and / or to be filled section wise with injection-molded polymeric material.
14. A System (40) comprising at least a connection device (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 13, at least a truss module device (14) and a rigid connector device (15) and / or a connection cube device (56).
15. The System (40) according to claim 14, wherein the connection device (1) is fixedly connected to the truss module device (14) and is - via its fixing element (24) connectable to the rigid connector device (15) and / or the connection cube device (56).