Joining system, mechanical device and procedure for automatically separating two components joined together by a joining system

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection system (10), in particular for connecting by force locking and / or interlocking a first component (12) and a second component (14), wherein the connection system comprises a connector (28) with a housing (30), in which a coupling recess (32) defining a longitudinal coupling axis is designed to receive a connecting element (34), wherein a fastening device (64) is formed or arranged in the housing to fix a connecting element that engages the coupling recess in a fixed position, wherein the fastening device comprises at least one fastening element (66) which in turn comprises a prestressing element (68), wherein the prestressing element is designed to be compressible such that, upon increasing an isotropic ambient pressure, it can move from an initial uncompressed position to a pressurized compressed position.wherein a housing volume defined by the prestressing element is smaller than in the initial position, and wherein the prestressing element assumes the pressurized position in a release position in which the connecting element can move parallel to the longitudinal coupling axis.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a connection system, in particular for force-fit and / or form-fit connection of a first component and a second component, wherein the connection system comprises a connector with a housing, wherein a coupling receptacle defining a coupling longitudinal axis for receiving a connecting element is formed in the housing, wherein a locking device is arranged or formed on the housing for securing a connecting element engaging in the coupling receptacle in a locking position, wherein the locking device comprises at least one first locking element which is arranged or formed on the housing movably in a plane transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the coupling longitudinal axis and engages at least partially with a first locking section in the coupling receptacle in the locking position, wherein the at least one locking element comprises a pre-tensioning element.which is arranged or designed to interact with the first locking section in such a way that the first locking section can be moved from the locking position to a release position against the action of the pretensioning element, in which the at least one locking element releases the coupling receptacle at least to such an extent that a connecting element engaging in the coupling receptacle can be moved parallel to the longitudinal axis of the coupling.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a mechanical device comprising a first component and a second component, wherein the first component and the second component are connected to each other.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for automatically separating a first component and a second component from each other, which are connected to each other.

[0004] Mechanical devices with at least two interconnected components are known in many forms. For example, they are designed as two- or multi-part housings that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as housings for electrical appliances.

[0005] It is common practice to screw two components together or to connect them using snap-fit ​​or latching mechanisms. A particular problem with such connections is that they are very difficult to disassemble, sometimes requiring the destruction of parts of the connected components. Especially with snap-fit ​​or latching systems, the locking tabs often break off during this process.

[0006] The separation of two interconnected components is becoming increasingly important in light of the growing volume of electronic waste. Particularly with regard to the recycling of raw materials contained in electronic waste, such as gold or rare earth metals, it would be desirable to provide a separation system that would enable the automated separation of two interconnected components.

[0007] A mounting device is known from US patent 2016 / 0363262 A1.

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a connection system, a mechanical device and a method of the type described above in such a way as to enable the automatic release of two interconnected components.

[0009] This problem is solved in a connection system of the type described above according to the invention by the fact that the pre-tensioning element is designed to be compressible such that it can be brought from an uncompressed initial position to a compressed pressure position by increasing an isotropic ambient pressure, in which an envelope volume defined by the pre-tensioning element is smaller than in the initial position, and that the pre-tensioning element assumes the pressure position in the release position.

[0010] Further developing a connection system of the type described above in the proposed manner enables, in particular, the automatic separation of two components connected by such a system. No tools or similar equipment are required; it is simply a matter of increasing the pressure in the vicinity of the connection system. For example, two connected components can be placed in a pressure chamber where the pressure is increased, causing the pre-tensioning element to move from its uncompressed initial position to the compressed pressure position. This allows a connecting element held in the coupling receptacle to be moved out. If the pressure chamber is rotated or shaken after the pressure has been increased, the connected components can then be separated. No manual intervention is required.If, for example, the housing of an electrical device is assembled exclusively using a connection system according to the invention, it can be automatically and, in particular, purely mechanically disassembled into its components in the manner described. In particular, screw connections can be completely dispensed with in such a connection system. These require significantly more effort to loosen than the connection system proposed according to the invention. Regarding the preloading element, it should be noted in particular that a helical spring alone is not suitable as a preloading element of the connection system, since it cannot be moved from an uncompressed to a compressed position by a change in ambient pressure.

[0011] It is advantageous if the preloading element assumes its initial position in the locked position. Therefore, the preloading element can be completely uncompressed in the locked position. Alternatively, it can also be partially compressed in the locked position to increase holding force and thus create a particularly secure connection.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the prestressing element can be designed in the form of a compressible foam body or an elastic casing with at least one enclosed cavity. The foam body can, in particular, be isotropically compressible. The enclosed cavity of the elastic casing is preferably fluid-tight. If the foam body or the casing is filled with a fluid, its volume can change with changes in ambient pressure. If the ambient pressure is increased, the foam body and the casing are compressed. If the ambient pressure is decreased, the aforementioned prestressing elements expand and occupy a larger volume. An elastic casing can, for example, be designed in the form of a closed balloon, which is suitably arranged on the housing of the connector.

[0013] Preferably, the foam body is made of a closed-cell or at least partially closed-cell foam. Partially closed-cell means that at least some of the cells enclosed by the foam body, which define cavities, are closed, i.e., fluid-tight or gas-tight, so that they can react to a change in ambient pressure and thus the size of the respective cell can increase or decrease depending on whether the ambient pressure decreases or increases.

[0014] It is advantageous if the foam body comprises a multitude of closed, gas-tight cavities and if these cavities are filled with a compressible fluid. This design makes it possible, in particular, to compress the foam body by increasing the ambient pressure. The compressible fluid contained in the cavities can be compressed when the ambient pressure is increased, thus reducing the size of each cavity and consequently the overall volume of the foam body as defined by its structure.

[0015] The connection system can be designed simply and cost-effectively if the compressible fluid is a gas. In particular, it can be an inert gas or air.

[0016] The connection system can be designed simply and cost-effectively if the foam body is made of a foamed plastic. In particular, the plastic can be polypropylene, polyethylene, or polystyrene.

[0017] Preferably, the prestressing element is elastically deformable. This allows, in particular, the prestressing element to automatically return to its uncompressed initial position when the ambient pressure is reduced. Therefore, it is advantageous if the prestressing element is reversibly compressible and decompressible.

[0018] It is advantageous if the preloading element extends between a housing wall and the first locking section. This allows the preloading element to, for example, be supported against a housing wall and move the first locking section away from or towards the housing wall, depending on whether the preloading element is compressed or decompressed.

[0019] It is advantageous if the preloading element, particularly via a first connecting surface, is connected to the housing, especially the housing wall, by means of a force-fit, form-fit, and / or material-fit connection. In this way, the preloading element can be fixed to the housing. Thus, the preloading element can only move spatially with respect to the areas that are not connected to the housing. For example, it can be connected to the housing via a first connecting surface. An outer surface of the preloading element opposite the first connecting surface can then move towards the first connecting surface in the event of compression or away from it during decompression. In this way, the preloading element can easily and reliably perform the function of a compression spring.

[0020] Advantageously, the preloading element is connected to the housing, particularly the housing wall, only at the first contact surface. This ensures that the preloading element remains permanently fixed to the housing, for example, the housing wall, at this first contact surface. Other side or outer surfaces of the preloading element, however, can move relative to the housing when the ambient pressure changes. This allows the first locking section to be moved as desired relative to the housing, and especially to the coupling receptacle, during compression and decompression of the preloading element. This enables, for example, the locking of a connecting element engaging in the coupling receptacle.

[0021] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the preloading element can be connected to the first locking section, in particular via a second connecting surface, by means of a force-fit, form-fit, and / or material-fit connection. This configuration makes it possible, in particular, to permanently connect the first locking section to the preloading element, so that the latter can be moved relative to the housing during both compression and decompression, together with the preloading element or a second connecting surface thereof.

[0022] It is advantageous if the at least one locking element is movably held in a locking element receptacle of the housing and if the preloading element is supported on the housing on one side and on the first locking section on the other. This design makes it possible, in particular, to forgo a permanent connection of the locking element to the housing. For example, the at least one locking element can thus move the first locking section towards the coupling receptacle during decompression. The locking element receptacle can therefore serve, in particular, to guide the movement of both the preloading element and the locking element. Particularly good guidance can be achieved if the housing has an additional side wall, opposite the top of the housing, that delimits the at least one locking element.Instead of a housing wall, and in particular a housing bottom, of the connector, a side or outer surface of one of the two components of the mechanical device to be connected can also prevent movement of the locking element away from the housing top. In such a case, the side or outer surface of the component then functions as a side wall of the connector housing. Both a housing bottom and a side or outer surface of one of the two components of the mechanical device to be connected form a stop or boundary surface that limits movement of the locking element away from the housing top in the direction of the coupling's longitudinal axis. This is particularly advantageous for preloaded elements that have no or only low dimensional stability.

[0023] Advantageously, the prestressing element incorporates the first securing section. This allows it to be designed as a single piece. This simplifies the design of the connection system, as, for example, no force-fit, form-fit, or material-fit connection needs to be created between the prestressing element and the first securing section.

[0024] The connection system can be designed in a simple and cost-effective manner if the pre-tensioning element is formed in one piece, particularly monolithically, with the first locking section. For example, the pre-tensioning element together with the first locking section can be formed from a plastic by injection molding, whereby in particular part of the pre-tensioning element can be formed as a foam body, for example by foaming.

[0025] Preferably, the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface each form part of an outer surface of the prestressing element. This allows for easy connection, for example, to the housing of the connector, in particular a housing wall thereof, or to the first locking section.

[0026] It is advantageous if the housing defines a housing top that extends transversely, and in particular perpendicularly, to the coupling longitudinal axis, and if an insertion opening is formed in the housing top. The insertion opening can be fluidly connected to the coupling receptacle, so that a connecting element can be inserted into the coupling receptacle through the insertion opening. The housing top also enables a stable design of the connector. In particular, it can also serve as a support surface for one of two components to be connected.

[0027] Preferably, the insertion opening has a non-circular cross-sectional shape that deviates from a circular form. This makes it possible, in particular, to insert a connecting element into the coupling receptacle only in a defined rotational position relative to the coupling's longitudinal axis, and to secure it, at least temporarily, against falling out of the coupling receptacle by rotating it about the coupling's longitudinal axis.

[0028] It is advantageous if the coupling receptacle has the shape of a vertical hollow cylinder with a cross-sectional area corresponding to the insertion opening. The cross-sectional area can, for example, be circular, so that the coupling receptacle has the shape of a vertical circular hollow cylinder.

[0029] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if a housing underside opposite the housing top includes or is designed as a clamping element that can be deflected in a direction away from the housing top against a restoring force exerted by the clamping element. In particular, the clamping element can be arranged or formed in an opening on the underside of the housing. Such a design makes it possible, in particular, to additionally secure a connecting element inserted into the coupling receptacle with the clamping element. For example, a free end of the connecting element can interact with the clamping element in such a way that, when the clamping element is deflected away from the housing top, it exerts a restoring force on the connecting element in a clamping position.This makes it possible, in particular, to press the connecting element firmly against the at least one first locking section to make it more difficult to disengage it.

[0030] It is advantageous if the clamping element at least partially, and preferably completely, closes the housing on its underside. In particular, the clamping element can at least partially, and preferably completely, close the opening on the underside of the housing. This allows for a simpler design of the connector, as the underside of the housing can then be closed, for example, with a housing underside wall formed by the clamping element. The clamping element can also completely or partially close only an opening on the underside of the housing, which may be formed in a housing underside formed by another housing wall. The clamping element can, for example, be inserted into the opening on the underside of the housing or injection-molded onto it, thus closing it completely or entirely.In this way, the tension member, in conjunction with a free end of a connecting element inserted into the coupling receptacle, can limit the movement of the connecting element towards the underside of the housing, thus forming a stop for the connecting element. If the tension member is deflected from its restoring position, it exerts a restoring force on the connecting element and holds it in the desired position. In particular, this ensures a positive fit between the connecting element and the at least one first locking section in the locked position. The tension member then, for example, pre-tensions the locking surfaces of the connecting element against the retaining surfaces of the at least one first locking section. This provides additional security for the locked position.

[0031] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one retaining element may be arranged or formed on the first locking section, which has a retaining surface extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis of the coupling. The retaining surface may, in particular, point away from the top of the housing and thus interact with a retaining surface on the connecting element pointing towards the top of the housing in the locked position, by bearing against each other and thus preventing movement of the connecting element out of the coupling receptacle towards the top of the housing.

[0032] The connector can be designed in a simple way if at least one retaining element is formed in the form of a retaining projection or a retaining recess.

[0033] It is advantageous if at least one retaining element comprises an inclined first sliding surface pointing towards the longitudinal axis of the coupling and the insertion opening. Such a first sliding surface makes it possible, in particular, to insert a connecting element into the coupling receptacle and, as it slides forward into the coupling receptacle, to mechanically compress the preloading element temporarily, i.e., without changing the ambient pressure. In this way, the connecting element can be easily locked to the connector upon insertion into the coupling receptacle.

[0034] In principle, it is possible to bond the housing to one of the two components to be joined using a material-bonded connection, for example, by gluing or welding. The housing then remains permanently connected to the respective component. However, it can also be advantageous if at least one first coupling element is arranged or formed on the housing, particularly on an outer surface, for engaging with at least one correspondingly designed second coupling element on a first component to be joined to a second component, either by force-locking and / or form-locking. This design makes it possible, in particular, to fix the connector on a component that is to be joined to another component, namely by force-locking and / or form-locking. No additional tools are required for this.For example, the entire housing can be inserted into a receptacle on one of the components to be connected, or clamped to it. This also allows the connector to be detached from the component again if necessary.

[0035] The connector can be easily coupled to one of the components if the at least one first coupling element is designed in the form of a coupling projection or a coupling recess. It can then be easily engaged with a corresponding second coupling element by means of a force-fit and / or positive locking mechanism.

[0036] The connector can be securely and easily attached to a component that is to be connected to another component if two first coupling elements are arranged or formed on the housing on housing side surfaces that point diametrically away from each other and extend transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the top of the housing. This makes it possible, in particular, to slide the housing parallel to the top of the housing into corresponding coupling recesses on the component.

[0037] The connection system can be designed to be simple and compact if the housing is cuboid or essentially cuboid in shape.

[0038] It is advantageous if the housing is arranged or formed on the first component to be connected to the second component. In particular, it can be integrally, and especially monolithically, connected to the first component. This simplifies the connection of two components, as the user then does not have to first couple or connect the connector to one of the two components, but can directly connect the two components together.

[0039] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the connection system may comprise a connecting element formed separately from the housing, with a coupling section that can be inserted into the coupling receptacle and engaged with the first locking section in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner, particularly in the locked position. With such a connecting element, it is particularly possible to connect two components, each of which has an opening for the connecting element, so that the connecting element can pass through these two openings and then engage with the coupling section of the connector. In this way, the two components can be easily clamped together using the connection system comprising a connecting element and a connector.

[0040] Two components can be easily joined if the connecting element is located on or integrated into the second component to be joined. In particular, it can be integrally formed with the second component, especially monolithically. This simplifies the assembly of two components. For example, the connecting element can be located on one component and the connector on the other. Only the connecting element and the connector then need to be engaged. Mounting the connecting element and the connector to the two components is then unnecessary. This saves work steps and therefore time when joining the components.

[0041] It is advantageous if a retaining section extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the coupling is arranged or formed at one end of the coupling section. Such a retaining section can be designed in the manner of a head, such as on a nail or screw, and in particular project laterally, i.e., transversely to the longitudinal axis of the coupling section, beyond the coupling section. This design makes it possible, in particular, similar to a screw-nut connection, to arrange and clamp one, two, or more components between the retaining section and the connector.

[0042] Preferably, an undercut is defined between the retaining section and the housing in the secured position. Areas of the first and / or second component can engage in this undercut, allowing them to be held clamped between the retaining section and the housing in the secured position.

[0043] Advantageously, the undercut is bounded by the housing top and by a retention section surface pointing towards the housing top. The retention section surface can, in particular, be annular and, for example, define a plane extending transversely, and especially perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis of the coupling.

[0044] It is advantageous if at least one end of the connecting element is equipped with a tool coupling element pointing away from it and in the direction of the coupling's longitudinal axis, enabling positive engagement with a screw-in tool. Such a tool coupling element allows the user, in particular, to easily rotate the connecting element around its coupling's longitudinal axis using a screw-in tool. This can be used, for example, to release a connection between the connecting element and the connector, such as by moving the preloading element from an uncompressed or partially compressed initial position to a compressed pressure position, without changing the ambient pressure. Thus, for instance, a housing can be opened for repair purposes even without a pressure chamber.

[0045] The connection system can be easily implemented if the tool coupling element is designed in the form of a tool projection or a tool holder. In particular, a tool holder can be easily engaged with conventional insertion tools, such as screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, or the like.

[0046] The tool coupling element can be easily masked if the tool holder is designed in the form of a slot, an internal polygon or an internal polycircle.

[0047] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the coupling section of the connecting element has a non-circular, and in particular changing, cross-section along its length transverse to the coupling axis. This allows for the realization of different types of outer contours for the connecting element. For example, locking elements can be easily formed on the coupling section, which interact with the first locking section of the connector in the locked position. A non-circular cross-section also makes it possible to design the outer surfaces of the connecting element differently in different directions of rotation, so that, depending on one rotational position, a force-fit and / or positive-locking engagement between the first locking section and the connecting element is possible, while in another rotational position it is not.This allows, for example, the connecting element in the coupling receptacle to be selectively engaged or disengaged from the first locking section by twisting, in order to be able to either pull the connecting element out of the coupling receptacle or secure it in it.

[0048] It is advantageous if the coupling section has at least one sliding surface section, and in particular two diametrically opposed sliding surface sections. The sliding surface sections can interact with the first locking section in such a way that the connecting element is movable in two opposite directions relative to the first locking section, parallel to the coupling's longitudinal axis. The sliding surface sections are therefore not positively engaged with the first locking section, allowing movement of the connecting element parallel to the coupling's longitudinal axis relative to the first locking section.

[0049] It is advantageous if at least one sliding surface section runs parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis or forms an opening angle with the coupling longitudinal axis from a free end of the coupling section. Such sliding surface sections particularly facilitate the easy insertion of a connecting element into a coupling receptacle of the connector. In particular, a free end of the coupling section can be conical or frustoconical in shape.

[0050] It is advantageous if at least one locking element is arranged or formed on the coupling section, which engages with the at least one retaining element in the locking position. This enables a simple force-fit and / or form-fit locking of the connecting element in the coupling receptacle with the first locking section.

[0051] The connection system can be easily formed if at least one locking element is designed in the form of a locking projection or a locking recess.

[0052] It is advantageous if the first distance of the at least one sliding surface section from the coupling longitudinal axis in the radial direction is greater than the second distance of a free end of the at least one locking element, pointing radially away from the coupling longitudinal axis, from the coupling longitudinal axis. Such a design makes it possible, for example, to rotate the connecting element in the coupling receptacle in such a way that either the at least one sliding surface section interacts with the first locking section or the at least one locking element.By selecting the spacing as specified, when the connecting element is rotated such that the at least one sliding surface section interacts with the first locking section, the preloading element is mechanically compressed by the rotation of the connecting element, i.e., without a change in ambient pressure. This disengages the at least one locking element and the at least one retaining element, thus, in particular, releasing any previously established positive locking connection. This makes it possible, in particular, to withdraw the connecting element from the coupling receptacle in the described position.

[0053] It is advantageous if a first plane of symmetry of the at least one sliding surface section, containing the longitudinal axis of the coupling, encloses a release angle in the circumferential direction relative to a second plane of symmetry of the at least one locking element, also containing the longitudinal axis of the coupling. This simple design of the connecting element allows, in particular, the definition of a release angle by which the connecting element must be rotated relative to the longitudinal axis of the coupling, for example, to engage the first locking section either with the sliding surface sections or with the retaining element. In this way, it can be easily specified by what angle the connecting element must be rotated to move it from the locked position to the released position by mechanical engagement.

[0054] The release angle is preferably in the range of 80° to approximately 220°. In particular, it can be in the range of approximately 80° to approximately 110° or in the range of approximately 140° to approximately 220°, and more specifically, it is approximately 90° or approximately 180°. If, for example, two pre-tensioning elements are provided on the connector, the release angle is in the range of approximately 80° to approximately 110°. If only a single pre-tensioning element is provided, the release angle can be in the range of approximately 80° to approximately 220°, and more specifically, in the range of approximately 140° to approximately 220°.

[0055] To facilitate the simple mechanical release of the connecting element and the connector, it is advantageous if at least one locking element extends circumferentially, relative to the coupling's longitudinal axis, over a circumferential angle in a range of approximately 100° to approximately 175°. Within this range, engagement between the locking section and the connecting element in the locked position can then be achieved. By appropriately rotating the connecting element within the coupling receptacle, the preloading element can then be moved from the locked position to the released position. The connecting element thus acts as a kind of eccentric.

[0056] It is advantageous if the connecting element is rotatable relative to the housing from the locked position to a released position, in which at least one sliding surface section rests against the first locking section, particularly by the release angle. This design makes it possible, as already indicated, to compress the preloading element by rotating the connecting element, thereby releasing the connecting element and allowing it to be pulled out of the coupling receptacle.

[0057] It is advantageous if the at least one locking element has a locking surface extending transversely, and in particular perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis of the coupling, which, in the locked position, rests against the retaining surface of the at least one retaining element. This design enables a simple, positive-locking connection of the connecting element with the first locking section in the locked position.

[0058] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the at least one locking element and / or a free end of the coupling section comprises an inclined second sliding surface pointing away from the coupling's longitudinal axis and the insertion opening. This second sliding surface slides onto the first locking section when the connecting element is inserted into the coupling receptacle, thereby moving the first locking section away from the coupling's longitudinal axis against the action of the preloading element. Such a second sliding surface thus facilitates, in particular, the simple insertion of the connecting element into the coupling receptacle. This results in a simple locking action of the connecting element with the first locking section. If several retaining elements and locking elements are provided, successive locking can occur as the connecting element is moved into the coupling receptacle.

[0059] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the connection system may include a pressure chamber with a pressure chamber space filled with a compressible fluid for receiving a first and second component connected to the connection system, and a pressure generation device for increasing the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber space relative to the ambient pressure of the pressure chamber. As already explained, with such a pressure chamber, it is possible to compress the preloading element on the connector simply by increasing the pressure in the pressure chamber, so that the first locking section releases the coupling receptacle in such a way that the connecting element received therein can be removed from the coupling receptacle without the first locking section exerting any force on the connecting element. In this way, the connection system can be easily and automatically released.Devices or housings can be disassembled without the use of other tools.

[0060] The problem set out at the beginning is further solved in a mechanical device of the type described at the beginning according to the invention by connecting the first component and the second component to each other with one of the connection systems described above according to the invention.

[0061] Such a mechanical device can then be automatically disassembled, as described, by changing the ambient pressure through the separation of the interconnected components.

[0062] It is advantageous if the mechanical device is designed in the form of a housing with a housing tray and a housing lid for closing the housing tray, with the housing tray forming the first component and the housing lid forming the second component. Such housings can therefore be easily connected to one another using the proposed connection system and then, in particular, separated from each other without the use of tools by increasing the ambient pressure.

[0063] Preferably, the device housing is designed in the form of a housing for an electrical appliance. This makes it possible, in particular, to equip electrical appliances, such as loudspeakers, kitchen appliances, battery-operated hand tools, or the like, with housings that are held together by the proposed connection system. Disassembly of such electrical appliances is then made possible in the manner described and is therefore particularly easy.

[0064] The problem set out at the outset is further solved according to the invention in a method of the type described at the outset by the fact that the first component and the second component are connected to each other with one of the advantageous connection systems described above, that the connected first and second components are introduced into a pressure chamber space of a pressure chamber at atmospheric pressure, that the pressure chamber is closed and the pressure in the chamber is increased to transfer the prestressing element from the initial position to the pressure position.

[0065] Such a further developed method makes it possible to easily disassemble mechanical devices, especially the housings of electrical appliances, without the use of any kind of tools.

[0066] To facilitate the separation of the connected components, it is advantageous to move, particularly shake, the pressure chamber to detach the connecting element from the connector. This allows the connecting element to fall out of the coupling receptacle in the release position of the connector's pre-tensioning element.

[0067] Furthermore, the use of a pressure chamber with a pressure chamber space filled with a compressible fluid and a pressure generating device for increasing a fluid pressure in the pressure chamber space relative to an ambient pressure of the pressure chamber is proposed for carrying out one of the above-described methods according to the invention.

[0068] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with the drawings, serves for further explanation. The drawings show: Figure 1: a schematic sectional view of a mechanical device taken inside the pressure chamber of a pressure chamber at normal pressure; Figure 2: an analogous arrangement Figure 1 , however, with an overpressure prevailing in the pressure chamber compared to the surrounding environment; Figure 3: an enlarged partial view of area A in Figure 1 Figure 4: an enlarged partial view of area B from Figure 2 Figure 5: a schematic, perspective, partially cutaway view of a connector of a connection system during the insertion of a connecting element into the coupling receptacle of the connector; Figure 6: an exploded view of the arrangement made of Figure 5 Figure 7: an arrangement similar to Figure 5 , however with the connecting element twisted relative to the connector; Figure 8: a sectional view along line 8-8 in Figure 7 Figure 9: a view similar to Figure 5of another embodiment of a connector with associated connecting element; Figure 10: a sectional view along line 10-10 in Figure 9 Figure 11: a sectional view along line 11-11 in Figure 10 Figure 12: a sectional view similar to Figure 10 , however with the pre-tensioning element in the release position; Figure 13: a similar view Figure 9 of another embodiment of a connector with associated connecting element; Figure 14: a sectional view along line 14-14 in Figure 13 Figure 15: a sectional view similar to Figure 14 , however with a pre-tensioning element in the release position; Figure 16: a sectional view along line 16-16 in Figure 15 Figure 17: a sectional view similar to Figure 16, however with a connecting element rotated by 90°; Figure 18: a side view of another embodiment of a connecting element; Figure 19: a side view of another embodiment of a connecting element; Figure 20: an enlarged partial view similar to Figure 3 with a further embodiment of a connector; Figure 21: a view similar to Figure 20 of another embodiment of a connector; and Figure 22: a view similar to Figure 3 , with a second housing component made of a compressible material.

[0069] In the Figure 1 and 2 Figure 10 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a connection system designated in its entirety by reference numeral 10. It serves for the force-fit and / or form-fit connection of a first component 12 and one or more second components 14.

[0070] The two components 12 and 14 are part of a mechanical device 16, which is located in the Figure 1 and 2 The device housing 18 is shown as an example. The device housing 18 comprises a housing tray 20 and a housing cover 22 for closing the housing tray 20, which defines a receiving space 24. In this embodiment, the housing tray 20 forms the first component 12. The housing cover 22 forms the second component 14.

[0071] The schematic in the Figure 1 and 2 The illustrated device housing 18 is, in one embodiment, designed as the housing of an electrical device 26. Such an electrical device 26 can be, for example, a loudspeaker or an electric hand tool that can be operated independently of the mains supply with a battery or also dependent on the mains supply, or another electrical device comprising a housing.

[0072] The connection system 10 serves to connect the two components 12 and 14 to each other by means of force-fit and / or form-fit. For this purpose, the connection system 10 comprises a connector 28. A first embodiment of the connector 28 is shown schematically in the Figures 1 to 8 The structure of connector 28 is shown below, particularly in connection with the Figures 5 to 8 explained in more detail.

[0073] The connector 28 comprises a housing 30. A coupling receptacle for receiving a connecting element 34 is formed in the housing 30. The coupling receptacle 32 defines a coupling longitudinal axis 36.

[0074] The case 30 is located in the Figures 1 to 8The schematically illustrated embodiment is cuboid or essentially cuboid in shape. It defines a housing top 38, from which a circumferential housing wall 40 projects parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis 36. The housing wall 40 comprises two end walls 42 running parallel to each other and two side walls 44 running parallel to each other, connecting the end walls 42. The end walls 42 and the side walls 44 are formed without openings.

[0075] The housing 30 is open opposite the housing top 38. Therefore, it has no housing bottom.

[0076] An insertion opening 46 is formed in the upper surface 40 of the housing. The upper surface 38 of the housing extends transversely, namely perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis 36 of the coupling.

[0077] The insertion opening 46 has, in the Figures 1 to 8The schematically represented embodiment has a non-circular cross-sectional shape. It therefore deviates from a circular shape and is essentially oval.

[0078] The coupling receptacle 32 has the form of a vertical hollow cylinder with a cross-sectional area corresponding to the insertion opening 46.

[0079] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 A first coupling element 50 is arranged or formed on the housing 30, namely on an outer housing side 48. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8Two first coupling elements 50 are formed in the form of coupling projections 52, which project rib-like from the end walls 42 and point diametrically away from each other. The rib-like coupling projections 52 extend in a direction parallel to a plane defined by the upper surface 38 of the housing and thus perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the coupling. They project from the outer housing side surfaces 54 of the end walls 42.

[0080] The first coupling elements 50 serve to engage forcefully and / or positively with at least one corresponding second coupling element 56 on the first component 12. The second coupling elements 56 are designed in the form of coupling recesses 58 for positively or at least partially positively engaging the first coupling elements 50. This is shown schematically in the Figures 1 to 4 depicted.

[0081] The second coupling elements 56 are formed on a housing receptacle 60 on the first component 12. The housing receptacle 60 is bounded by a surrounding frame 62. The housing receptacle 60 is designed to correspond to the housing 30, so that the latter can be positively inserted into the housing receptacle 60, as shown in the Figures 1 to 4 is shown schematically. In other words, in the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 4 The housing 30 of the connector 28 is designed separately from the first component 12. In this configuration, the connector 28 can be inserted into the housing receptacle 60 and, if necessary, removed from it again.

[0082] The housing mount 60 has the following features in the Figures 1 to 4 In the illustrated embodiment, a lower housing mounting wall 63 is provided, which runs parallel to the second component 14 when it is connected to the first component 12.

[0083] Not shown in the figures is another embodiment in which the housing 30 is arranged or formed directly on the first component 12, in particular as a single piece. For example, the housing 30 can be formed monolithically with the first component 12. Alternatively, the housing 30 can also be detachably connected to the second component 14 or formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with it.

[0084] The connection system 10 further comprises a locking device 64 arranged or formed on the housing 30. This device is arranged or formed to secure the connecting element 34 engaging in the coupling receptacle 32 in a locking position, as shown schematically in the Figure 1 and 3 This is shown and will be explained in more detail below.

[0085] In the embodiment of the connector 28, the safety device 64 comprises according to the Figures 1 to 8at least one first locking element 66, namely two locking elements 66, which are arranged or formed on the housing 30 in a plane transverse, namely perpendicular, to the coupling longitudinal axis 36 so as to be movable.

[0086] The first locking element 66 comprises a pre-tensioning element 68 and a first locking section 70 held on it.

[0087] In the locked position, the first locking element 66 engages at least partially with the first locking section 70 in the coupling receptacle 32. The pre-tensioning element 68 is thus arranged or designed to interact with the first locking section 70 in such a way that the first locking section 70 can be moved from the locked position to a release position against the action of the pre-tensioning element 68, in which the first locking element 66 releases the coupling receptacle 32 at least to such an extent that the connecting element 34 engaging in the coupling receptacle 32 can be moved parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis 36, and in particular can be pulled out of the coupling receptacle 32 through the insertion opening 46.

[0088] The pre-tensioning element 68 is designed to be compressible, such that it can be moved from an uncompressed initial position to a compressed pressure position by increasing an isotropic ambient pressure. In the compressed pressure position, the envelope volume defined by the pre-tensioning element 68 is smaller than in the initial position. Furthermore, the pre-tensioning element 68 assumes the pressure position in the release position and is therefore at least partially compressed.

[0089] In the Figures 2 , 4 and 8 The two pre-tensioning elements 68 of the connector 28 are shown in the compression position as an example. The first locking elements 66 are shown moving from the locking position to the release position, which the Figures 2 , 4 and 8 schematically shown, in motion.

[0090] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8The pre-tensioning elements 68 assume the initial position in the safety position.

[0091] In this embodiment, the prestressing elements 68 are designed in the form of a compressible foam body 72, which is isotropically compressible. The foam body is cuboid in shape and is connected to the housing 30, namely the housing wall 40, by a force-fit and / or form-fit and / or material-fit connection via a first connecting surface 74.

[0092] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 A material-bonded connection is achieved through gluing or welding.

[0093] The prestressing element 68 is connected to the housing 30, namely the end wall 42, exclusively in the area of ​​the first connecting surface 74. A side surface of the foam body 72, pointing diametrically away from the first connecting surface 74, forms a second connecting surface 76, which is connected to the first securing section 70 by force-fit, form-fit, and / or material-fit connection.

[0094] In the manner described, the first locking elements 66 are movably held in a locking element receptacle 78 of the housing 30. The preloading element 68 is supported on one side by the housing 30 and on the other side by the first locking section 70. The first locking element 66 is movable in the manner described, parallel to the upper surface of the housing 38 and thus transversely, i.e., perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis 36 of the coupling.

[0095] In the embodiment of connector 28 according to the Figures 1 to 8are formed by two locking element receptacles 78 that limit the coupling receptacle 32 and are opposite each other with respect to it.

[0096] The connector 28 is designed as a mirror image with respect to a first mirror plane 80 containing the coupling longitudinal axis 36, which runs parallel to the end walls 42. A second mirror plane 82 of the connector 28 also contains the coupling longitudinal axis 36 and runs perpendicular to the first mirror plane 80.

[0097] The prestressing element 68, in the form of the foam body 72, is made of a closed-cell or at least partially closed-cell foam. The foam body 72 comprises a plurality of closed, gas-tight cavities filled with a compressible fluid. The compressible fluid is a gas. It can optionally be an inert gas or air.

[0098] The foam body 72 is made of a foamed plastic. Polypropylene, polyethylene, or polystyrene are particularly suitable plastics for this purpose.

[0099] The described design of the prestressing element 68 enables its elastic deformability, which will be explained in more detail later.

[0100] As particularly in Figure 8 As can be clearly seen, the pre-tensioning element 68 extends between the housing wall 40, namely an end wall 42, and the first securing section 70.

[0101] In an embodiment not shown, the pre-tensioning element 68 comprises the first locking section 70. In this case, the pre-tensioning element 68 is formed integrally, in particular monolithically, with the first locking section 70.

[0102] The first connecting surface 74 and the second connecting surface 76 each form part of an outer surface of the prestressing element 68.

[0103] Retaining elements 84 are also arranged on the first securing section 70. These are, in the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 in the form of retention recesses 86. The retention elements 84 each have a retention surface 88 extending transversely, namely perpendicularly, to the coupling longitudinal axis 36. The retention surfaces 88 have, in the case of the Figures 1 to 8 The illustrated embodiment is in a direction away from the insertion opening 86.

[0104] The retaining elements 84 further comprise a first sliding surface 90 inclined towards the coupling longitudinal axis 36 and the insertion opening 46. The first sliding surfaces 90 are essentially concave and thus curved. When the prestressing elements 68 assume the uncompressed initial position, the first sliding surface 90 extends rotationally symmetrically with respect to the coupling longitudinal axis 36.

[0105] The described design of the retaining members 84 forms a toothing that interacts with the connecting element 34, which is formed separately from the housing 30, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0106] The connecting element 34 comprises a coupling section 92 and a retaining section 94. The retaining section 94 is arranged or formed at one end of the coupling section 92 and extends essentially transversely to the coupling longitudinal axis 36. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 The coupling section 94 is designed in the form of a head 96. The head 96 has a flat end surface 98 and a convexly curved underside 100 pointing in the opposite direction towards the other end of the coupling section 92.

[0107] The coupling section 92 is dimensioned such that it can be inserted through the insertion opening 46 into the coupling receptacle 32 parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis 36 and engaged with the first locking section 70 by force and / or form locking. When the first locking sections 70 of the connector 28 are engaged with the coupling section 92, the connecting element 34 is secured and assumes the locked position.

[0108] The coupling section 92 has a flat, cuboid section 102, which has two narrow, diverging side edges 104 and two wide side surfaces 106 connecting the narrow side edges 104. A convexly curved rib 108 projects from each of the side surfaces 106, parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis 36 and with respect to it. In this way, the cross-section of the coupling section 92 is such that it is not circular along its extent perpendicular to the coupling longitudinal axis 36.

[0109] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 Two diametrically opposed sliding surface sections 110. They are formed by the side edges 104. The sliding surface sections 110 run parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis 36.

[0110] Several locking elements 112 are arranged or formed on the coupling section 92, which engage with the retaining elements 84 in the locking position. A locking element 112 is formed by a frustoconical end section 114, which defines a locking projection 116. The end section 114 tapers away from the retaining section 94 in one direction. The end section 114 projects laterally beyond the side surfaces 106, forming two almost semicircular locking surfaces 118 that run parallel to the end surface 98 and point towards the retaining section 94.

[0111] Between the retaining section 94 and the end section 114, a further locking projection 116 is formed on each side surface 106. These further locking projections 116 are arranged concentrically to the coupling longitudinal axis 36 and have a locking surface 118 pointing towards the retaining section 94.

[0112] Both the locking projections 116 and the end section 114 each comprise a second sliding surface 120. This is inclined away from the coupling longitudinal axis 36 and the insertion opening 46.

[0113] Furthermore, a first distance 122 of the sliding surface section 110 from the coupling longitudinal axis 36 in the radial direction is greater than a second distance 124 of a free end 126 of the locking elements 112 pointing away from the coupling longitudinal axis 36 in the radial direction from the coupling longitudinal axis 36.

[0114] The connecting element 34 is mirror-symmetric with respect to a first plane of symmetry 128 and a second plane of symmetry 130 perpendicular to it. Both planes of symmetry 128 and 130 contain the longitudinal axis of the coupling. Each sliding surface section 110 is mirror-symmetric with respect to itself relative to the first plane of symmetry 128. The second plane of symmetry 130 is a mirror plane that transforms the locking elements 110 into themselves.

[0115] As already mentioned, the planes of symmetry 128 and 130 are perpendicular to each other. They therefore enclose a solution angle 132 between them, which lies in a range of 80° to 220°, i.e., in a range of 80° to 110°, and specifically measures 90°.

[0116] The locking elements 112 extend circumferentially with respect to the coupling longitudinal axis 36 over a circumferential angle in a range of approximately 100° to approximately 175°.

[0117] Furthermore, a tool coupling element 134 is arranged or designed on the connecting element 34, pointing away from it and in the direction of the coupling longitudinal axis 36, for positive engagement with a screwing tool not shown in the figures.

[0118] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 The tool coupling element 134 is formed on the retaining section 94 in the form of a tool receptacle 136, which extends from the end surface 98 into the retaining section 94. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the tool receptacle 136 is formed in the form of a slot 138. The slot 138 extends perpendicular to the second plane of symmetry 130 and thus in a direction parallel to the first plane of symmetry 128. Therefore, the slot 138 indicates the direction in which the cuboid section 102 extends. The side surfaces 106 run parallel to the first plane of symmetry 128.

[0119] The functionality of the connection system is explained below.

[0120] To connect the two components 12 and 14, a connector 28 is inserted into each of the housing receptacles 60 of the first component 12 as described above. The second component 14 can then be placed onto the first component 12. The second component 14 has openings 140, each of which is aligned with a coupling receptacle 32.

[0121] The connecting element 34, with its end section 114 leading, can now be inserted first through the opening 140 and then through the insertion opening 146 directly adjacent to it into the coupling receptacle 32. The housing receiving wall 63 of the housing receptacle 60 forms a stop or a limit for the first locking elements 66, preventing them from being deflected away from the second component 14 by the inserted connecting element 34. Furthermore, the housing receiving walls 63 also guide the first locking elements 34 when deflecting away from the coupling longitudinal axis 36 and when moving towards the coupling longitudinal axis 36.

[0122] If normal atmospheric pressure prevails in the environment of the described arrangement, the pre-tensioning element 68 assumes an uncompressed initial position. The first securing sections 70 then partially protrude into the coupling receptacle 32.

[0123] As the connecting element 34 is advanced into the coupling receptacle 32, the second sliding surfaces 120 on the first locking section 70 slide onto it and move it away from the coupling longitudinal axis 36 against the action of the pre-tensioning element 68. When the locking surface 118 engages behind the retaining surface 88, the pre-tensioning element 68 relaxes and moves the first locking section 70 back towards the coupling longitudinal axis 36. If the connecting element 34 is advanced further into the coupling receptacle 32, a second sliding process occurs, so that the pre-tensioning element 68 is compressed again until the end section 114 engages as the front locking element 112 and the two other locking elements 112 each engage in a retaining recess 86. The pre-tensioning element 68 holds the first securing sections 70 engaged with the coupling section 92 in the manner described, as exemplified in the Figure 1 and 3 is shown.

[0124] The second component 14 is now held in the secured position between the retaining section 94 and the housing 30 and engages in an undercut 142 defined between the retaining section 94 and the housing 30. The undercut 142 is thus bounded on one side by the upper surface of the housing 38 and on the other by a retaining section surface 144, which is defined by the lower surface of the head 100. The retaining section surface 144 points towards the upper surface of the housing 138.

[0125] There are two main ways to separate the two components 12 and 14.

[0126] According to one possibility, the connection can be automatically released by increasing the ambient pressure of the mechanical device 16. In the Figure 1 and 2A pressure chamber 146 is schematically depicted, which is formed as a pressure chamber space 148 for receiving the components 12 and 14 connected to the connection system.

[0127] With a pressure generating device 150, which is located in the Figure 1 and 2 As schematically represented and, for example, designed in the form of a pump 152, the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 148 can be increased relative to the ambient pressure prevailing in the surroundings 154 of the pressure chamber 146. The pressure increase in the pressure chamber 146 leads, as schematically shown in the Figures 2 and 4As shown, the preloading element 68 is compressed because the compressible fluid contained in its cavities cannot escape. The one-sided attachment of the preloading element 68 to the housing 30, when the preloading element 68 is compressed, causes the first locking section 70 to move away from the coupling longitudinal axis 36. Thus, the preloading element 68 moves the first locking section 70 from the locked position to a release position against the force exerted by the preloading element 68. The preloading element 68 assumes a compressed pressure position in which the envelope volume defined by the preloading element 68 is smaller than in the initial position. In the release position, the preloading element 68 therefore assumes the pressure position. Figures 2 and 4 They schematically show both the release position and the pressure position.

[0128] In the manner described, the connecting element 34 can be detached from the connector 28. Thus, a method for automatically detaching components 12 and 14 from each other, which are initially connected by the connection system 10, has been described. If the two components 12 and 14 are introduced into the pressure chamber 148 of the pressure chamber 146 at atmospheric pressure, the pressure chamber 146 is closed, and the pressure in the pressure chamber 146 is increased, the pre-tensioning element 68 is moved from its initial position to the pressure position.

[0129] In order to easily and safely detach all connecting elements 34 from the connectors 28, it is advantageous if the pressure chamber 146 is moved, especially shaken, if there is a pressure in it that is higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0130] Finally, the pressure in pressure chamber 146 can be reduced back to the value of the ambient pressure 154, and pressure chamber 146 can be opened. The components 12 and 14, originally connected by the connection system 10, are now separated and can be removed individually.

[0131] According to a second possibility, the connection of the connecting element 34 to the connector 28 can also be released without pressure chamber 146 if, for example, one is not available.

[0132] In the locked position, the connecting element 34 is oriented such that the side surfaces 106 are parallel to the end walls 42. If the connecting element 34 is now rotated by the release angle 132, for example by engaging it with a screwing tool (not shown) with the tool coupling member 134, the sliding surface sections 110 move towards the first locking sections 70 and cause compression of the preloading element 68. Due to their shape, the sliding surface sections 110 cannot form a positive locking connection with the respective first locking section 70, so the connecting element 34 can be pulled out of the coupling receptacle 32.

[0133] As described, the connecting element 34 can be rotated relative to the housing 30 from the locked position to a released position, in which the sliding surface sections 110 each bear against a first locking section 70. The rotation occurs, as described, by the release angle 132. When the connecting element 34 is released as described by rotating it relative to the connector 28, the preloading element 68 exerts a preloading force and presses the first locking section 70 against the sliding surface sections 110. Thus, a clamping effect of the connector 28 relative to the connecting element 34 still results, but a positive-locking connection is no longer established that would prevent the connecting element 34 from being pulled out of the coupling receptacle 32.

[0134] In an alternative embodiment, the housing 30 opposite the housing top is closed by a housing bottom wall, which then takes over the function of the housing receiving wall 63.

[0135] In the Figures 9 to 12 Another embodiment of a connector 28 of a connection system 10 is shown schematically. For identical or functionally comparable parts and components, the following applies to the embodiment of the Figures 9 to 12 The same reference numerals are used as in the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 .

[0136] The essential difference between the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 9 to 12 and the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 The difference lies in the fact that only a single first locking element 66 is provided. It comprises a cuboid-shaped prestressing element 68 with the properties already described in the first embodiment of the connector 28.

[0137] Overall, the connector 28 is designed to be mirror-symmetrical about the mirror plane 82. It has only this one mirror plane 82. The coupling receptacle 32 is offset towards one of the two end walls 42 and has the shape of a hollow circular cylinder. The first locking section 70 is held to the second connecting surface 76 by a material bond. The first connecting surface 74 of the prestressing element 68 is materially bonded to the second end wall 42. In the Figures 9 to 11 The safety position is shown schematically. The pre-tensioning element 68 is uncompressed and assumes its initial position.

[0138] On the first locking section 70, two retaining elements 84 are formed in the form of retaining projections 156, which have a square cross-sectional contour and each define two retaining surfaces 68 running parallel to each other and parallel to the top of the housing 38. In the locked position, the coupling receptacle 32 is bounded by a hollow cylindrical wall surface 158 of the first locking section 70. The retaining projections 156 extend from this wall surface 158 and project into the coupling receptacle 32, which defines a circular cross-section.

[0139] The insertion opening 46 on the upper side of the housing 38 also has a circular cross-section.

[0140] The connecting element 34 comprises a retaining section 94, which is formed at one end of a coupling section 92 having a cylindrical base shape. An end section 114 of the connecting element 34, opposite the retaining section 94, is conically tapered. The underside 100 of the head 96 formed by the retaining section 94 is annular and defines a segment of a circular cone.

[0141] At coupling section 92, two locking elements 112 are formed in the form of locking recesses 160. They are adapted to the contour of the retaining projections 156 and can engage them in the locked position, as shown schematically in the Figures 10 and 11 is shown.

[0142] In an analogous manner to the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8Two first coupling elements 50 are arranged or formed on the housing 30, so that this connector 28 can also be inserted into a corresponding housing receptacle 60 on a first component 12 or on a second component 14.

[0143] To connect two components 12 and 14, the procedure is analogous to that described above. Components 12 and 14 are inserted together, and the connecting element 34 is inserted through the opening 140 in the second component 14, with the end section 114 leading, through the insertion opening 46 into the coupling receptacle 32. The retaining projections 156 slide onto the outer surface of the end section 114, which defines a second sliding surface 120, thus compressing the pre-tensioning element 68. As soon as the two retaining projections 156 can engage in the corresponding detent recesses 160, the pre-tensioning element 68 moves the first locking section 70 towards the longitudinal axis 36 of the coupling, thus engaging the locking position.

[0144] To release the connecting element 34 from the connector 28, the arrangement can be inserted into the pressure chamber 148 of the pressure chamber 146 as described above, and the pressure in the pressure chamber 146 can be increased, thereby compressing the preloading element 68. This pulls the first locking section 70 out of the coupling receptacle, so that the Figure 12 The release position shown is assumed. The connecting element 34 can now be pulled out or shaken out.

[0145] Alternatively, i.e., without an available pressure chamber 146, the connecting element 34 can be inserted starting from the one in the Figures 10 and 11The locking position shown is rotated by a release angle 132, which is large enough that the retaining projections 156 slide onto an outer surface of the coupling section 92, which is designed without recesses and thus forms a sliding surface section 110. This causes the first locking section 70 to be pressed from the coupling longitudinal axis 36 towards the pre-tensioning element 68. The pre-tensioning element 68 is thereby compressed and exerts a pre-tensioning force on the first locking section 70, which is then pressed against the sliding surface section 110 with the end faces 162 of the retaining projections 156. The connecting element 34 is then only held in the coupling receptacle 32 by friction, but no longer by a positive fit between the retaining elements 84 and the locking elements 112.

[0146] In the Figures 13 to 17Figure 1 shows a further embodiment of a connector 28 of a connection system 10 schematically. Here too, the same reference numerals are used for identical or functionally comparable components as in the embodiments described above.

[0147] The housing 30 of the connector 28 according to the embodiment of the Figures 13 to 17 corresponds almost identically to the housing 30 of the embodiment of the Figures 9 to 12 alike. Only the insertion opening 46 has a cross-sectional shape that is in the form of a quarter circle, with the tip being rounded towards the center of the quarter circle, with a radius which is defined by the coupling section 92 of the connecting element 34.

[0148] In this embodiment as well, only a first locking element 66 is provided, which comprises a cuboid-shaped pre-tensioning element 68, the first connecting surface 74 of which is metallurgically bonded to the end wall 42 of the housing 30. The second connecting surface 76 is metallurgically bonded to the first locking section 70.

[0149] The basic shape of the first locking section 70 is cuboid. A semicircular groove 164 is formed on the first locking section 70, extending from the insertion opening 46. One radius of the groove 164 corresponds to the radius of the coupling section 92. The groove 164 does not extend along the entire length of the first locking section 70 parallel to the longitudinal axis 36 of the coupling, but ends slightly spaced from an end of the first locking section 70 pointing away from the insertion opening 46. A retaining element 84 in the form of a retaining recess 86 is formed on the first locking section, extending from this end. This recess has a circular cross-section. A longitudinal axis of the retention recess 86 runs perpendicular to both the end walls 42 and the coupling longitudinal axis 36. The described retention recess 86 widens in a plane perpendicular to the coupling longitudinal axis 36 towards the coupling receptacle 32.

[0150] The coupling section 92 is elongated and cylindrical, running parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis 36. At one end pointing away from the retention section 96, a locking projection 116 extends perpendicularly to the coupling longitudinal axis 36. This projection has a circular cross-section, allowing it to be received in the retention recess 86 in a substantially form-fitting manner.

[0151] A tool coupling element 134 in the form of a slot 138 is formed on the retaining section 94. A longitudinal direction defined by the slot 138 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the locking projection 116.

[0152] To connect two components 12 and 14, the procedure can be the same as in the embodiments already described above. In the embodiment of Figures 13 to 17The coupling section 92 is again inserted through the opening 140 in the second component 14 and then through the insertion opening 46 of the housing 30 into the coupling receptacle 32. To enable this, the longitudinal axis of the locking projection 116 is aligned parallel to the end walls 42.

[0153] The end wall 42, against which the coupling receptacle 32 is formed, does not extend over the entire length of the housing 30 parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis 36, but ends slightly above the first coupling elements 50. When the coupling section 92 is inserted as far as possible into the coupling receptacle 32, the connecting element 34 is pivoted about the coupling longitudinal axis 36 by the release angle 132 to secure the connecting element 34 to the connector 28. Figure 17 schematically shows the position of the connecting element after insertion into the coupling receptacle 32, Figure 16after pivoting into the retaining recess 86. Figure 14 shows, as well as Figure 13 , schematically the position of the connecting element accordingly Figure 16 .

[0154] To release the connection between the connecting element 34 and the connector 28, and thus to move the connecting element 34 from the locking position to a release position, an ambient pressure, in particular in a pressure chamber 146, can be increased as described above, so that the pre-tensioning element 68, as schematically shown in Figure 15 The representation is compressed with the consequence that the first securing section 70 is retracted so far that the connecting element 34 is also in the position pivoted by 90°, as shown in the Figures 13 to 16 shown, can be moved out of the coupling receptacle 32.

[0155] In Figure 18Another embodiment of a connecting element 34 is shown schematically. Its structure is identical to that of the connecting element according to the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8 identical.

[0156] However, it differs from this one in the design of the retention section 94. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 18 in the form of a tension member 172. In the illustrated embodiment, the tension member 172 is formed by an elastic rubber and can thus additionally secure the position of the retaining section 94 in the opening 140 by clamping.

[0157] The described design makes it possible in particular to hold the retention section 94 clamped in the opening 140 of the second component 14.

[0158] The in Figure 19 The schematically represented embodiment of a connecting element 34 corresponds in structure to the embodiment of the Figures 1 to 8The two embodiments are identical. However, here a front half of the end section 114 is designed in the form of a tension member 172. In this embodiment as well, it is formed by an elastic rubber. This design makes it possible, in particular, to press the connecting element 34 against the action of the tension member 172, which is supported, for example, on a housing underside 166 of the housing 30 or on one of the two components 12 or 14 of the mechanical device to be connected, in the locking position with the detent surfaces 118 against the retaining surfaces in order to additionally secure the connector 28 in the locking position.

[0159] Figure 20 schematically shows a similar view to Figure 3 . In the Figure 20In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 28 is additionally equipped with a wall-shaped housing underside 166, which has a central opening 168. The housing underside 166 faces the housing upper side 38. The opening 168 forms a housing underside opening 170. A tension member 172 is inserted into this opening, which forms a stop for the end section 114 and holds it under preload towards the housing upper side 38. Thus, the connecting element 34 is additionally secured in the locked position by holding the locking elements 112 against the retaining elements 84.

[0160] The tension member 172 is made of an elastic plastic or rubber such that, as a result of a deflection from a basic position in which it is disengaged from the connecting element 34, it exerts a restoring force on the connecting element 34 in the direction of the housing top 38.

[0161] As can be seen from Figure 20 This results directly in a free end of the end section 114, which engages in a recess 174 of the tendon 172, being held axially by the tendon 172, i.e. parallel to the coupling longitudinal axis 36, in a defined position, namely in particular such that the locking elements 112 are pressed against the retaining elements 84.

[0162] The in Figure 21 The schematically depicted embodiment differs from the arrangement shown above. Figure 20 in particular by the fact that the entire wall-shaped lower surface of the housing 166 is formed by the tension member 172. A function of the in Figure 21 The schematically depicted connector 28 then corresponds to the functionality of the connector 28 according to the embodiment shown in the Figure 20 .

[0163] Another variant of a connection system 10 is exemplified in Figure 22 schematically represented. The difference to the arrangement according to Figure 3 The feature consists in particular in that the second component 14 is made of an elastic plastic or rubber and forms a tension member 172. Due to its arrangement between the retaining section 94 of the connecting element 34 and the housing top 38, it exerts a compressive force as a result of compression and holds the retaining section 94 away from the housing top 38. In this way, a tensile force is exerted on the connecting element 34 in the direction of the housing top, so that the locking elements 112 are pressed against the retaining elements 84 and additionally clamp the connector 28 in the locked position.

[0164] Alternative to the design according to Figure 22The second component 14 can also exhibit a slightly springy property. If the second component 14 is slightly concave in the direction of the first component 12, the connecting element 34 presses the second component 14 flat against the first component 12 in the connected position. The second component 14 is thus held slightly pre-tensioned against the first component 12.

[0165] The above-described embodiments of connection systems 10, connectors 28 and associated connecting elements 34 are purely exemplary.

[0166] In alternative embodiments, the housing 30 of the connector 28 can also be formed in one piece with one of the two components 12 or 14.

[0167] In embodiments not shown, the connecting element 34 can also be formed integrally with one of the two components 12 or 14, or be integrally molded onto it, or be permanently connected to it. This does not change the described functionality of the connection system 10, particularly with regard to releasing the engagement of the coupling section 92 in the coupling receptacle 32. For example, the embodiment of Figure 3 The design can be modified such that the retaining section 94 is molded onto or connected to the second component 14, and the housing 30 of the connector 28 can also be integrated into the first component 12. This would reduce the number of parts required to connect the two components 12 and 14.

[0168] Components 12 and 14 can be made of any material, in particular plastics or metals. The housing 30 of the connector 28 can in particular be made of a metallic material or of a plastic. Likewise, the first locking section 70 can also be made of a plastic or of a metallic material.

[0169] Instead of a foam body 72, the prestressing elements 68 can also be formed from a shell element (not shown) with only one cavity. If the cavity of the shell element, which can be designed in a balloon-like manner, is sealed and filled with a compressible fluid, a function of the modified connection system 10 can be realized that corresponds to a function of the embodiments of connection systems 10 described above.

[0170] All described embodiments make it possible, in particular, to release the force-fit and / or form-fit connection between the connecting element 34 and the connector 28 by increasing the ambient pressure. This enables the automatic disassembly of mechanical devices 16 with two or more interconnected components 12, 14, and especially also of electrical devices 26 comprising such mechanical devices 16. Reference symbol list

[0171] 10 Connection system 12 First component 14 Second component 16 Mechanical device 18 Device housing 20 Device tray 22 Housing cover 24 Receiving space 26 Electrical device 28 Connector 30 Housing 32 Coupling receptacle 34 Connecting element 36 Coupling longitudinal axis 38 Housing top 40 Housing wall 42 End wall 44 Side wall 46 Insertion opening 48 Housing exterior 50 First coupling element 52 Coupling projection 54 Housing side surface 56 Second coupling element 58 Coupling recess 60 Housing receptacle 62 Frame 63 Housing receptacle wall 64 Locking device 66 First locking element 68 Preloading element 70 First locking section 72 Foam body 74 First connecting surface 76 Second connecting surface 78 Locking element receptacle 80 First mirror plane 82 Second mirror plane 84 Retaining element 86 Retaining recess 88 Retaining surface 90 First sliding surface 92 Coupling section 94 Retaining section 96 Head 98 End surface 100 Underside of head 102 Section 104 Side edge 106 Side surface 108 Rib 110 Sliding surface section 112 Locking element114 End section 116 Detent projection 118 Detent surface 120 Second sliding surface 122 First gap 124 Second gap 126 End 128 First plane of symmetry 130 Second plane of symmetry 132 Release angle 134 Tool coupling element 136 Tool holder 138 Slot 140 Opening 142 Undercut 144 Retaining section surface 146 Pressure chamber 148 Pressure chamber space 150 Pressure generating device 152 Pump 154 ​​Surroundings 156 Retaining projection 158 Wall surface 160 Detent recess 162 End face 164 Groove 166 Housing bottom 168 Opening 170 Housing bottom opening 172 Tension member 174 Recess

Claims

1. Connection system (10), in particular for connecting a first component (12) and a second component (14) in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner, wherein the connection system (10) comprises a connector (28) having a housing (30), wherein formed in the housing (30) is a coupling receptacle (32) defining a coupling longitudinal axis (36) for receiving a connecting element (34), wherein a securing device (64) is arranged or formed on the housing (30) for securing a connecting element (34) engaging into the coupling receptacle (32) in a securing position, wherein the securing device (64) comprises at least one first securing element (66), which is arranged or formed on the housing (30) so as to be movable in a plane transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the coupling longitudinal axis (36) and which in the securing position engages at least partially with a first securing portion (70) into the coupling receptacle (32), wherein the at least one securing element (66) comprises a biasing element (68), which is arranged or formed cooperating with the first securing portion (70) in such a way that the first securing portion (70) is movable against the action of the biasing element (68) from the securing position into a release position in which the at least one securing element (66) releases the coupling receptacle (32) at least to an extent that a connecting element (34) engaging into the coupling receptacle (32) is movable in parallel with the coupling longitudinal axis (36), characterized in that the biasing element (68) is configured to be compressible in such a way that, by increasing an isotropic ambient pressure, it is bringable from an uncompressed starting position into a compressed pressure position in which an envelope volume defined by the biasing element (68) is smaller than in the starting position, and in that the biasing element (68) in the release position adopts the pressure position.

2. Connection system in accordance with Claim 1, characterized in that a) the biasing element (68) comprises the first securing portion (70), wherein in particular the biasing element (68) is formed in one piece, in particular monolithically, with the first securing portion (70), and / or b) arranged or formed on the first securing portion (70) is at least one retaining member (84), which has a retaining face (88) extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the coupling longitudinal axis (36), wherein in particular the at least one retaining member (84) - is configured in the form of a retaining projection (156) or in the form of a retaining recess (86) and / or - comprises an inclined first sliding face (90) inclined in the direction toward the coupling longitudinal axis (36) and the insertion opening (46).

3. Connection system in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the biasing element (68) a) in the securing position adopts the starting position and / or b) is configured in the form of an, in particular isotropically, compressible foam body (72) or in the form of an elastic enveloping body having at least one enclosed hollow space, wherein in particular the foam body (72) - is made of a closed-cell or at least partially closed-cell foam material and / or - comprises a multitude of closed gas-tight hollow spaces, and wherein the hollow spaces are filled with a compressible fluid, wherein in particular the compressible fluid is a gas, in particular an inert gas or air, and / or - is made of a foamed plastic material, in particular of polypropylene, polyethylene, or polystyrene.

4. Connection system in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a) the biasing element (68) is elastically deformable and / or b) the biasing element (68) extends between a housing wall (40) of the housing (30) and the first securing portion (70) and / or c) the biasing element (68) is connected, in particular with a first connecting face (74), to the housing (30), in particular the housing wall (40), in a force-locking and / or positive-locking and / or materially bonded manner, wherein in particular - the biasing element (68) is connected to the housing (30), in particular the housing wall (40), exclusively in the region of the first connecting face (74) and / or - the first connecting face (74) and the second connecting face (76) each form a portion of an outer surface of the biasing element (68).

5. Connection system in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a) the biasing element (68) is connected, in particular with a second connecting face (76), to the first securing portion (70) in a force-locking and / or positive-locking and / or materially bonded manner and / or b) the at least one securing element (66) is movably held in a securing element receptacle (78) of the housing (30) and in that the biasing element (68) is supported on the housing (30) on the one hand and on the securing portion (70) on the other hand.

6. Connection system in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the housing (30) defines a housing upper side (38), which extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the coupling longitudinal axis (36), and in that an insertion opening (46) is formed in the housing upper side (38), wherein in particular a) the insertion opening (46) has a non-round cross-sectional shape deviating from a circular shape and / or b) the coupling receptacle (32) has the shape of a perpendicular hollow cylinder having a cross-sectional area corresponding to the insertion opening (46) and / or c) a housing lower side (166) located opposite the housing upper side (38) comprises a clamping member (172) or is configured as a clamping member (172), which is deflectable in a direction away from the housing upper side (38) against a restoring force exerted by the clamping member (172), wherein in particular the clamping member (172) is arranged or formed in a housing lower side opening (170) of the housing lower side (166), wherein further in particular the clamping member (172) closes the housing (30) at least partially, in particular completely, on the housing lower side (166), wherein further in particular the clamping member (172) closes the housing lower side opening (170) at least partially, in particular completely.

7. Connection system in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a) at least one first coupling member (50) is arranged or formed on the housing (30), in particular a housing outer side (48), for being brought into engagement in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner with at least one correspondingly formed second coupling member (56) on a first component (12) to be connected to a second component (14), wherein in particular - the at least one first coupling member (50) is configured in the form of a coupling projection (52) or in the form of a coupling recess and / or - two first coupling members (50) are arranged or formed on the housing (30) on housing side faces (52) which face away from one another in a diametrical direction and extend transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the housing upper side (38), and / or b) the housing (30) - is of cuboidal or substantially cuboidal configuration and / or - is arranged or formed, in particular in one piece, further in particular monolithically, on the first component (12) to be connected to a second component (14).

8. Connection system in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the connection system (10) comprises a connecting element (34) formed separately from the housing (30), said connecting element (34) having a coupling portion (92) which is insertable into the coupling receptacle (32) and is bringable into engagement in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner with the first securing portion (70), in particular in the securing position, wherein in particular a) the connecting element (34) is arranged or formed, in particular in one piece, further in particular monolithically, on the second component (12) to be connected to the first, and / or b) a retaining portion (94) extending transversely to the coupling longitudinal axis (36) is arranged or formed on an end of the coupling portion (92), wherein in particular in the securing position an undercut (142) is defined between the retaining portion (94) and the housing (30), wherein further in particular the undercut (142) is delimited by the housing upper side (38) and by a retaining portion face (144) facing toward the housing upper side (38), and / or c) arranged or formed on at least one end of the connecting element (34) is a tool coupling member (134) facing away therefrom and in the direction of the coupling longitudinal axis (36) for being brought into engagement with a driving tool in a positive-locking manner, wherein in particular the tool coupling member (134) is configured in the form of a tool projection or a tool receptacle (136), wherein further in particular the tool receptacle (136) is configured in the form of a slit (138), a polygonal socket, or a multilobular socket.

9. Connection system in accordance with Claim 8, characterized in that a) the coupling projection (92) of the connecting element (34) has a non-round cross-section, in particular varying along its extent transverse to the coupling longitudinal axis (36) and / or b) the coupling portion (92) has at least one sliding face portion (110), in particular two diametrically opposed sliding face portions (110), wherein in particular the at least one sliding face portion (110) extends in parallel with the coupling longitudinal axis (36) or encloses an opening angle with the coupling longitudinal axis (36) commencing from a free end of the coupling portion (92).

10. Connection system in accordance with Claim 8 or 9, characterized in that arranged or formed on the coupling portion (92) is at least one latching member (112), which is in engagement with the at least one retaining member (84) in the securing position, wherein in particular a) the at least one latching member (112) is configured in the form of a latching projection (116) or a latching recess (160) and / or b) a first distance (122) of the at least one sliding face portion (110) from the coupling longitudinal axis (36) in the radial direction is greater than a second distance (124) of a free end (126) of the at least one latching member (112) pointing away from the coupling longitudinal axis (36) in the radial direction from the coupling longitudinal axis (36) and / or c) a first symmetry plane (128) of the at least one sliding face portion (110) containing the coupling longitudinal axis (36) together with a second symmetry plane (130) of the at least one latching member (112) containing the coupling longitudinal axis (36) enclose between them a release angle (132) in the circumferential direction, wherein in particular the release angle (132) is in a range of 80° to about 220°, in particular in a range of about 80° to about 110°, or in a range of about 140° to about 220°, further in particular about 90° or about 180°, and / or d) the at least one latching member (112) extends in the circumferential direction over a circumferential angle in a range of about 100° to about 175° relative to the coupling longitudinal axis (36) and / or e) the connecting element (34) is rotatable relative to the housing (30), in particular by the release angle (132), commencing from the securing position into a release position in which the at least one sliding face portion (110) abuts against the first securing portion (70), and / or f) the at least one latching member (112) comprises a latching face (118), which extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the coupling longitudinal axis (36) and which in the securing position abuts against the retaining face (88) of the at least one retaining member (112), and / or g) the at least one latching member (112) and / or a free end of the coupling portion (92) comprises an inclined second sliding face (120), which faces away from the coupling longitudinal axis (36) and the insertion opening (46) and which upon insertion of the connecting element (34) into the coupling receptacle (32) slides on the first securing portion (70) and thereby moves it away from the coupling longitudinal axis (36) against the action of the biasing element (68).

11. Connection system in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that it comprises a pressure chamber (146) having a pressure chamber space (148) filled with a compressible fluid for receiving a first and second component (12, 14) connected with the connection system (10) and comprises a pressure generating device (150) for increasing a fluid pressure in the pressure chamber space (148) compared to an ambient pressure of the pressure chamber (146).

12. Mechanical device (16) having a first component (12) and a second component (14), wherein the first component (12) and the second component (14) are connected to one another, characterized in that the first component (12) and the second component (14) are connected to one another with a connection system (10) in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims.

13. Mechanical device in accordance with Claim 12, characterized in that the mechanical device (16) is configured in the form of an appliance housing (18) having a housing tray (20) and a housing lid (22) for closing the housing tray (20), in that the housing tray (20) forms the first component (12), and in that the housing lid (22) forms the second component (14), wherein in particular the appliance housing (18) is configured in the form of an appliance housing (18) of an electrical appliance (26).

14. Method for automatically releasing a first component (12) and a second component (14) from one another, which are connected to one another, characterized in that the first component (12) and the second component (14) are connected to one another with a connection system (10) in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, in that the first and second components (12, 14) connected to one another are introduced into a pressure chamber space (148) of a pressure chamber (146) at atmospheric pressure, in that the pressure chamber (146) is closed and the pressure in the pressure chamber (146) is increased to transfer the biasing element (68) from the starting position into the pressure position, wherein in particular the pressure chamber (146) is moved, in particular shaken, to release the connecting element (34) from the connector (28).

15. Use of a pressure chamber (146) having a pressure chamber space (148) filled with a compressible fluid and having a pressure generating device (150) for increasing a fluid pressure in the pressure chamber space (148) compared to an ambient pressure of the pressure chamber (146) for performing a method in accordance with Claim 14.

Images