Closure device for the fluid-tight closing of a storage cavity

Abstract

The application relates to a closure device (1) for fluid-tightly closing a storage cavity (2), in particular a pocket on an item of clothing or on a rucksack / bags & luggage / transport containers. The closure device (1) according to the invention has a first pressure element (10) and a second pressure element (20), which are at least partly made of an elastic material, wherein the first pressure element (10) has a closure edge (121) arranged at a recess (12) and the second pressure element (20) has a mating edge (221). Furthermore, the closure device (1) includes an introduction channel (50) which is arranged between the first pressure element (10) and the second pressure element (20) and through which, when the closure device (1) is in an open state, an object to be stored can be introduced into and / or removed from the storage cavity (2). A rotational reinforcement (30) is also provided, which is at least partially surrounded by the second pressure element (20). In order to bring the closure device (1) into a closed state, the first pressure element (10) and the second pressure element (20) are designed to form a form-fit between the closure edge (121) and the mating edge (221) of the second pressure element (20), and the first pressure element (10) is also designed to surround the second pressure element (20) such that the latter is received in the recess (12) and is subjected to a radial force which is oriented in the direction of the rotational reinforcement (30). Furthermore, in a closed state, the first pressure element (10) is fixed, by means of a fixing element (40), in a position in which it surrounds the second pressure element (20).

Description

[0001] Closing device for fluid-tight sealing of a storage cavity

[0002] The application relates to a closure device for fluid-tightly closing a storage cavity, in particular a pocket on a garment or a backpack. For the purposes of the application, any volume suitable for storing objects is referred to as a storage cavity. This includes, for example, compartments in backpacks and other carrying devices, as well as pockets on trousers, jackets, or other items of clothing. A storage cavity in conjunction with a corresponding closure mechanism is referred to simply as a storage device for the purposes of the invention.

[0003] Particularly in the outdoor leisure / trekking sector or in water sports, such as sailing, stand-up paddling, or surfing, there is a great demand for waterproof and thus fluid-tight bags and storage devices. So-called duffel bags (or "dry bags") are widespread; their openings can be sealed fluid-tight by rolling up rigid elements and then connecting the ends of the rigid elements. Such previously known options from the prior art have the disadvantage that opening and closing the closure entails considerable effort. Furthermore, this type of closure is only applicable to bags of a certain shape and different sizes, meaning that pockets attached to clothing, for example, cannot be closed with this type of system.

[0004] Furthermore, watertight and airtight sealing systems are known, for example, from freezer bags. However, such systems are limited to specific applications and cannot be transferred. Furthermore, they are not very robust and prone to leaks.

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a closing device for fluid-tightly closing a storage cavity that is transferable to various applications, is simple and quick to operate, and is highly robust. It is also an object of the invention to provide a stowage device comprising the closing device according to the invention.

[0006] This object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are contained in the subclaims.

[0007] The locking device according to the invention has a first pressure element and a second pressure element, which are formed at least in sections from an elastic material, wherein the first pressure element has a closing edge arranged on a recess and the second pressure element has a counter-edge. Furthermore, an insertion channel is provided in the locking device, which is arranged between the first pressure element and the second pressure element and through which an object to be stowed can be inserted and / or removed, for example into a storage cavity, when the locking device is in the open state. Furthermore, a rotation reinforcement is provided, which is at least partially enclosed by the second pressure element, particularly preferably 80% when the locking device is in the open state.The first pressure element and the second pressure element are designed to transfer the locking device into a closed state by forming a positive connection between the closure edge and the counter edge of the second pressure element. The first pressure element is further designed to enclose the second pressure element such that the latter is received in the recess and experiences a radial force oriented in the direction of the rotational reinforcement. In other words, by enclosing the first pressure element, a force is applied to the second pressure element that acts in the direction of the rotational reinforcement, whereby in particular provided elastic sections of the second pressure element are compressed. The first pressure element preferably encloses the second pressure element completely.Furthermore, in a closed state, the first pressure element is fixed by means of a fixing element in a position in which it encloses the second pressure element.

[0008] Due to its function, the first pressure element is also referred to as the external pull flap. To transfer the locking device from the open state to the closed state, the external pull flap is folded down and secured in this position with the fixing device. It completely encloses the first pressure element and, by folding down, exerts a compressive force on the second pressure element, which is thereby compressed. This is therefore also referred to as the internal compression resistance. By compressing the internal compression resistance, a pressure resistance is built up opposite to the enclosing direction or folding direction of the first pressure element, which causes the sealing effect of the locking device.

[0009] In the closed state, the second pressure element therefore strives to return to its original unloaded position and thus exerts pressure from the inside against the first pressure element, which acts as counterpressure to the pressure of the first pressure element on the second pressure element from the outside. The opposing forces ensure a fluid-tight connection. The first and second pressure elements are in particular arranged and designed such that the deformation of the second pressure element is maintained solely due to the pressure of the first pressure element acting radially from the outside in the direction of rotation amplification. Thus, there is preferably no projection or similar on the second pressure element which interacts with the second pressure element and is held in position by the fixation of the first pressure element in the fixation device.

[0010] The closing device according to the invention allows a simple, fluid-tight connection to be established between the two pressure elements, thus sealing the storage cavity in a fluid-tight manner. The closing device is versatile and suitable for a variety of applications, particularly those mentioned in the introduction. The first pressure body can be easily and quickly pulled over the second pressure body and secured accordingly to close the closing device.

[0011] The positive connection between the closing edge of the first pressure element and the counter-edge of the second pressure element allows the first pressure element to be tensioned around the second pressure element. In doing so, the first pressure element is at least partially elastically stretched. This elastic deformation creates a force that opposes the deformation. This force causes the first pressure element to be pressed radially outward toward the second enclosed pressure element after the first pressure element has been fixed in the closed state of the locking device. This force presses the two pressure elements together, creating a fluid-tight contact between the pressure elements.

[0012] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the rotation reinforcement is deformable in a transverse direction and non-deformable in a vertical direction. For the purposes of this application, the terms transverse direction, vertical direction, and longitudinal direction are defined as follows. The longitudinal direction extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the rotation reinforcement. It is to be equated with an axis around which the first pressure element is pulled to close the closing device. Both the transverse direction and the vertical direction are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The vertical direction corresponds to the direction in which an object must be moved in order to be placed into the storage cavity or to be moved between the pressure elements. It therefore corresponds to the insertion direction. The transverse direction is perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction and the vertical direction.To transfer the locking device from the open state to the closed state, the locking edge and counter edge are guided together in the transverse direction to form a positive connection.

[0013] Such a design of the rotation reinforcement makes it easier to remove an object from the storage cavity, as the rotation reinforcement can be deformed in the transverse direction, thus increasing the space for access between the two pressure elements and through to the storage cavity. At the same time, it can be ensured that the rotation reinforcement has sufficient rigidity in the vertical direction to simplify the enclosing of the first pressure body around the second pressure body.

[0014] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second pressure element has the shape of a spiral in cross section, in particular an Euler spiral. The spiral extends in particular around the rotation reinforcement, which is at least partially encompassed by the second pressure element. Unless otherwise stated, the term "in cross section" within the scope of the invention always refers to the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rotation reinforcement. An Euler spiral, also known as a clothoid or Cornu spiral, is a mathematical curve with special properties. The main property of the Euler spiral is that its curvature increases linearly with the curve length. This means that the curve begins straight (zero curvature) from the outside towards the center and gradually becomes more curved. The second pressure element does not describe the entire Euler spiral, but only a section of it.Furthermore, the curvature of the Euler spiral at any point along the curve is proportional to the arc length traveled. Mathematically, the Euler spiral can be described by Fresnel integrals:

[0015] Where L is the arc length along the curve.

[0016] Preferably, the second pressure element is formed in cross-section at least in sections as a spiral or circular segment and has a constant thickness at least in this section.

[0017] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second pressure element has a cross-sectional end face that is designed such that the second pressure element does not form a closed circle when the locking device is closed. This means that an end face of the second pressure element is designed such that, when the locking device is closed, it does not align flush with the beginning of the second pressure element. For this purpose, the end face is beveled, in particular, at a bevel angle relative to an opening angle of the second pressure element. The opening angle is the angle that describes the distance between the beginning face and the end face of the, in particular spiral-shaped, geometry of the second pressure element when the locking device is open.This feature ensures, even with manufacturing tolerances, that there is a clear closed position in the closed state and thus a fluid-tight closure of the locking device. In addition, the gap that inevitably forms between the starting surface and end surface of the second pressure element in the closed state improves the tightness of the locking device in the closed state, as targeted water entry into the gap is enabled, exerting a force on the second pressure element that tends to push it back into its initial state, i.e. the unloaded state of the second pressure element. This increases the pressure exerted by the second pressure element from the inside against the first pressure element surrounding the second pressure element, thus further improving the tightness of the locking device.The bevel by the bevel angle and the resulting penetration of water into this gap thus has a self-compacting effect for the locking device.

[0018] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first pressure element is designed as a curved freeform in the open state of the locking device. For the purposes of the application, the open state always describes the unloaded state, in which no force acts on the first and second pressure elements other than their own weight. Thus, even in an unloaded state, the first pressure element already has a basic shape curved in the direction of deformation upon transition to the closed state. The curved freeform enables a uniform surface force to be present between the first pressure element and the second pressure element in the closed state of the locking device, so that a constant sealing surface can be achieved between the two pressure elements. The tightness and reliability of the seal can thus be significantly improved.The curvature of the basic shape describes the curvature of the basic geometry in the unloaded state, not a possibly additionally provided curved recess of the first pressure element. In particular, the curvature of the basic shape is designed for the closed state so that it adapts perfectly to the second pressure element when closed and under pressure.

[0019] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is one in which the first pressure element has a thickened portion at the level of the closing edge and the closing edge is arranged at the thickest point of this thickened portion, wherein the second pressure element further has a depression at the level of the counter-edge arranged opposite the thickened portion and the closing edge and the counter-edge together form a positive connection, in particular when the closing device is in the closed state. This positive connection represents an anchor point for the movement of the first pressure element, since when the closing device is transferred from the open to the closed state, the first pressure element is fixed at the location of the anchor point and thus the pressure between the pressure elements can be built up. In particular, a first section of the first pressure element in such an embodiment is angled by a specific angle, preferably approx.20 degrees, beveled against the insertion direction of the locking device. It thus has a bevel formed counter to the insertion direction, which is particularly designed in the opposite direction in the second pressure element. The oppositely shaped bevels, which open into the closure edge and the counter-closure edge, form a centering element for the closure edge and counter-edge. Preferably, therefore, the first pressure element and the second pressure element each have an oppositely shaped beveled surface, which is designed to center the closure edge relative to the counter-edge during the transition from the open state to the closed state of the locking device.This feature ensures that when the first and second pressure elements are placed on top of one another, they align themselves using the bevels in such a way that the closing edge is guided into the counter edge and the two pressure elements are therefore clearly and correctly positioned relative to one another. This simplifies operation of the bag, as the user does not have to worry about the correct positioning of the closing edge and counter edge, which is essential for the function of the closing device, and incorrect operation can be largely ruled out. In particular, the positive connection of the anchor point between the closing edge and counter edge is characterized by an undercutting geometry, with the closing edge of the first sealing element engaging with the geometry of the second sealing element.

[0020] A further preferred embodiment of the invention is one in which the thickness distribution between the first pressure element, the second pressure element, and again the first pressure element in the cross-section through the closing device at the level of the rotation reinforcement in the closed state of the closing device is a ratio of 20 - 60 - 20 percentage points. The thickness distribution describes the distribution of the material thicknesses of the pressure elements in the closed state when cutting through the rotation reinforcement. The rotation reinforcement itself is counted as 60% of the second pressure element. The numerical data are to be understood as guidelines, with deviations of up to 5% from the exact numerical values ​​of the individual wall thicknesses / thicknesses being within the scope of the disclosure.

[0021] Furthermore, an embodiment of the invention is preferred in which the first pressure element and the fixing element are arranged such that a force generated by the first pressure element in the closed state of the locking device and acting on the fixing element acts as a shear force in the fixing element. The expansion of the first pressure element when enclosing the second pressure element in the closed state of the locking device creates a force that counteracts the expansion of the first pressure element and thus tends to release the closed state of the locking device. The fixing element of the locking device holds the second pressure element in the closed state.By arranging the fastening element so that it is only subjected to shear stress, functional reliability can be significantly improved, as many forms of fastening elements, such as snap fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, or similar, are better suited to absorbing shear stresses than normal stresses, particularly tensile forces. Thus, by arranging the fastening element so that the force caused by the first pressure element acts as a shear force on the fastening element when closed, functional reliability can be increased and the selection and design of the fastening element can be simplified.In an advantageous embodiment, a magnetic device is provided in the first pressure element and / or in the second pressure element, which magnetic device is designed to define a position of the first pressure element relative to the second pressure element before the closing device is transferred into a closed state.

[0022] A variety of different fastening systems are conceivable for securing the first pressure element to the second pressure element to maintain the closed state of the locking device. For example, the fastening can be implemented using a zipper, a hook-and-loop fastener, snap fasteners, magnets, or a completely different system. Combinations of different systems are also conceivable.

[0023] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is one in which the rotation reinforcement consists of individual links. The individual links themselves are particularly non-deformable, so that deformation of the rotation reinforcement is only possible between the individual links. Depending on the size of the individual links, more or less rounded designs of the rotation reinforcement can be achieved. Individual links can be used to create a robust and functional rotation reinforcement that meets the corresponding requirements regarding deformability, especially in different directions.

[0024] A further preferred embodiment is one in which the individual links have a rounded portion at a front end along their longitudinal extension, i.e., the extension in the longitudinal direction, and a counter-rounded portion at their rear end along their longitudinal extension. The counter-rounded portion is, in particular, formed in the opposite direction to the rounded portion and shaped such that the rounded portion of the next individual link can engage with this rounded portion. The design with the rounded portion and counter-rounded portion ensures freedom of movement of the individual links relative to one another, thus ensuring the desired deformation of the rotation reinforcement.

[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the individual links have a joint head which is arranged on a connecting element at a rear end of the individual links along their longitudinal extent, and a socket which is arranged at the front end of the individual links along their longitudinal extent. The joint head of a first individual link and the socket of a second individual link are designed to function as a joint. By designing them as a joint, the rotation of the first individual link relative to the second individual link is ensured in at least one spatial direction, thus realizing deformation of the rotation reinforcement consisting of the individual links. The design of a joint via a joint head and a correspondingly designed socket is a simple way of supporting two connected elements.

[0026] Nevertheless, embodiments of the invention are also conceivable in which a joint is realized between two individual links, for example via an axis in a second individual link, which serves as the axis of rotation, and a corresponding bearing sleeve of a first individual link, which is mounted about the axis. In such an embodiment, however, the rotation of the two individual links relative to one another is limited to one spatial direction. Likewise, other similarly designed embodiments for forming a joint are conceivable, which, for example, also include the combination of a particularly spherical joint head, which is mounted in a socket, and a bearing sleeve mounted about an axis.

[0027] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is one in which the joint head and at least a portion of the connecting element of the first individual link protrude through a slotted recess in the second individual link, and the slotted recess is designed to allow only one spatial direction for the joint head of the first individual link to move in the socket of the second individual link. This ensures controlled deformability of the rotation reinforcement, which allows it to be deformed only in one spatial direction.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention with a joint head, this is preferably spherical or formed as a ball.

[0029] The stowage device according to the invention has a closing device according to the invention and a stowage cavity which is closed in a fluid-tight manner, in particular by the closing device.

[0030] An advantageous embodiment of the stowage device according to the invention has ribs that extend in particular in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the rotation reinforcement of the closing device. They extend in particular parallel to the insertion direction of the closing device. The ribs stabilize the overall tension of the drawstring flap because they stabilize the back of the stowage device and thus reduce its deformation. This ensures even pressure distribution of the closing device across the entire width of the closing device. In other words, the ribs improve the tensioning force of the drawstring flap because the back of the stowage device is held more securely, even when there are no objects in the bag, i.e., the bag is empty. The ribs can have any straight or organic shape that extends along the stowage device.

[0031] In the following, embodiments, further developments, and examples of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The figures show:

[0032] Fig. 1a shows a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the stowage device 100 according to the invention with a closing device 1 according to the invention in an open state in cross section

[0033] Fig. 1b shows a schematic illustration of the embodiment of a stowage device 100 shown in Fig. 1a in a half-open state

[0034] Fig. 1c shows a schematic illustration of the embodiment of a stowage device 100 shown in Fig. 1a. Fig. 2a shows a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a rotation stiffener 30 in an undeformed state from a vertical direction z

[0035] Fig. 2b shows a detailed illustration of the embodiment of a rotation stiffener 30 shown in Fig. 2a in an undeformed state from a vertical direction z

[0036] Fig. 2c shows a schematic illustration of the embodiment of a rotation stiffener 30 shown in Fig. 2a in a deformed state from a vertical direction z

[0037] Fig. 2d shows a detailed illustration of the embodiment of a rotation stiffener 30 shown in Fig. 2a in a deformed state from a vertical direction z

[0038] Fig. 3a shows a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a rotation stiffener 30 in an undeformed state from a transverse direction x

[0039] Fig. 3b shows a detailed illustration of the embodiment of a rotation stiffener 30 shown in Fig. 2a in an undeformed state from a transverse direction x

[0040] Fig. 3c shows a schematic illustration of the embodiment of a rotation stiffener 30 shown in Fig. 2a in a deformed state from a transverse direction x

[0041] Fig. 3d shows a detailed illustration of the embodiment of a rotation stiffener 30 shown in Fig. 2a in a deformed state from a transverse direction x

[0042] Fig. 4a shows a schematic illustration of a second embodiment of the locking device 1 according to the invention in an open state in cross section

[0043] Fig. 4b shows a detailed view of the second embodiment of the locking device 1 from Fig. 4a

[0044] Fig. 4c shows the second embodiment of the locking device 1 from Fig. 4a in a closed state in cross section

[0045] Fig. 5 shows a first embodiment of a storage device 100 according to the invention in a perspective view

[0046] Directional references such as up, down, right, left, etc. given below always refer to the directions in the drawing plane of the corresponding figure. The invention is not limited to the embodiment shown in the figures. Likewise, different features can be combined with one another and are not only linked in conjunction with other independent features.

[0047] Fig. 1a shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the stowage device 100 according to the invention with a closing device 1 according to the invention in an open state. The view is taken from a longitudinal direction y of the closing device 1. In addition to the closing device 1, the stowage device 100 has a storage cavity 2, which directly adjoins the closing device 1 and is connected to it. The storage cavity 2 is arranged below, i.e., in a direction parallel to the vertical direction z.

[0048] The closing device 1 comprises a first pressure element 10 and a second pressure element 20, both of which are designed to be elastically deformable at least in sections. An insertion channel 50 is provided between the two pressure elements 10, 20, separating them from one another. An object can be inserted between the two pressure elements 10, 20 into the storage cavity 2 through the insertion channel 50 and removed therefrom. The direction in which the object is to be moved between the two pressure elements 10, 20 is referred to as the insertion direction 60.

[0049] The two pressure elements 10, 20 are therefore arranged opposite one another and separated from one another by the insertion channel 50. The second pressure element 20 is round in the cross-section shown and is arranged around a rotational stiffener 30. The first pressure element 10 has a recess 12 and a gripping element 11. At the lower beginning of the recess 12 in the plane of the drawing, a closing edge 121 is provided and is correspondingly formed by the recess 12. On the side of the insertion channel 50 opposite the closing edge 121, a counter edge 221 is provided on the second pressure element 20. The closing edge 121 and the counter edge 221 are shaped in opposite directions, so that when the two pressure elements 10, 20 are pressed together in the transverse direction x, a positive connection is created which is capable of absorbing force in the vertical direction z.

[0050] Furthermore, the locking device 1 has a fixing device 40, which is shown in Figs. 1a, 1b, 1c in a stylized manner as a fixing element 41 on the first pressure element 10 and a fixing counterpart 42 on the second pressure element 20. The fixing device 40 can be provided by one or more snap fasteners, a hook-and-loop connection, a magnetic connection, and / or the like. Likewise, the fixing element 41 can be designed as a closing spring and the fixing counterpart 41 as a closing groove, whereby a positive connection can be established. Combinations of different locking systems, for example a positive connection and at least one snap fastener, are also conceivable. In the context of the invention, a positive connection also includes different variants of latching, hooking, or the like.

[0051] To transfer the locking device 1 into a closed state, the first pressure element 10 is preferably pulled around the second pressure element 20 and the rotation reinforcement 30 by means of the grip element 11, as shown in Fig. 1b. Fig. 1b differs from the illustration in Fig. 1a in that the locking device 1 is in a half-closed / half-open state. During the closing process, the second pressure element 20 is thus gradually enclosed by the first pressure element 10, starting from the positive connection between the closing edge 121 and the counter edge 221, and the second pressure element 20 is received in the recess 12 of the first pressure element 10. The first pressure element 10, in particular with the recess 12, and the second pressure element 20 are dimensioned such that the first pressure element 10 elongates and thus elastically deforms when enclosing the second pressure element 20.

[0052] Fig. 1c shows a fully closed state of the locking device 1. The first pressure element 10 completely encloses the second pressure element 20. Complete enclosing of the second pressure element 20 by the first pressure element 10 is not necessarily required to implement the inventive concept. The closed state is maintained by the fixing device 40, so that the first pressure element 10 does not spring back into the open state due to its elongation.

[0053] Embodiments are also conceivable in which the fixing device 40 is arranged at a different location, for example on the part of the second pressure element 20 that surrounds the rotation reinforcement 30. The choice of where the fixing device 40 is arranged depends significantly on the choice of fixing device 40 and on the direction in which the fixing device 40 can best absorb force. For example, snap fasteners or hook-and-loop fasteners can best absorb the shear forces acting on them (compared to normal forces), so that, particularly with fixing devices 40 formed in this way, a positioning in which shear forces primarily act on the fixing element 41 and the fixing counterpart 42 is advantageous.

[0054] The positive connection between the closing edge 121 and the counter edge 221 allows the first pressure element 10 to be elastically deformed, so that it is under tension and a force is generated that counteracts the deformation. This deformation exerts a force on the enclosed second pressure element 20, which acts radially inward on the second pressure element 20 in the direction of the rotational stiffener 30. As a result, the second pressure element 20 is also compressed, i.e. deformed. The first pressure element 10 therefore exerts a radially inward force on the second pressure element 20, whereby the second pressure element 20, in turn, develops a correspondingly opposite force due to its elastic deformability. Thus, a surface contact force is generated between the pressure elements 10, 20, which presses the first pressure element 10 onto the second pressure element 20 and vice versa.This allows a fluid-tight closure of the insertion channel 50 to be achieved.

[0055] Preferably, the second pressure element 20 does not completely enclose the rotation reinforcement 30 in the open state, but completely encloses it in the closed state. This allows the second pressure element 20 to deform accordingly when transferred to the closed state, in particular to lengthen, thus generating the radially outward-acting force that creates the sealing effect. The expansion / elongation of the pressure element 20 also creates tension in the second pressure element 20, which physically acts in the opposite direction to the closing direction. Thus, when the locking device is closed, the physical forces of the rotation mechanism act on one side in the opposite direction to the expansion direction of the second pressure element 20, thus further increasing the contact force on the internal pressure element 20.It is also conceivable to provide another embodiment of the positive connection between the closing edge 112 and the counter edge 221, in which, for example, the closing edge 121 has hooks which must first be inserted into corresponding recesses in the counter edge 221 before the closing device 1 begins to close in order to guarantee a clean sealing effect.

[0056] Figures 2a to 2d and 3a to 3d each show a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a rotational stiffener 30. Figures 2a to 2d show the rotational stiffener 30 from a vertical direction z, i.e., from above in the plane of the drawing of Figures 1a to 1c. Figures 3a to 3d, however, show the rotational stiffener 30 from a transverse direction x, i.e., from the right in the plane of the drawing of Figures 1a to 1c. Figures 2b, 2d, 3b, and 3d each show detailed views of the corresponding Figures 2a, 2c, 3a, and 3c. The rotational stiffener 30 will be described simultaneously with regard to the entirety of Figures 2a to 2d and 3a to 3d.

[0057] The rotational stiffener 30 is composed of a plurality of individual links arranged in a guide channel 31. This is not shown in Figures 2c, 3a, and 3c for the sake of clarity. The individual links are designed as C-elements 32, which get their name from a main body that is C-shaped, at least in cross-section. Figures 2b, 2d, 3b, and 3d each show a first C-element 32a and a second C-element 32b, which are arranged one behind the other and connected via a joint. The C-elements 32 have a curve 321a at their front end in the longitudinal direction y of the rotational stiffener 30, i.e., in their longitudinal direction of extension. The longitudinal direction of extension is defined by the longitudinal direction of the rotational stiffener 30.At their corresponding rear end, the C-elements 32 have a counter-rounding 321b, which is designed to be opposite to the rounding 321a, so that the first C-element 32a and the second C-element 32b can be moved, or more precisely, rotated, relative to each other. The rounding 321a and the counter-rounding 321b of a single C-element 32 define the C-shaped main body.

[0058] The joint consists of a joint head 322a arranged at the rear end of the first C-element 32a, which is connected to the main body via a connecting section 323, and a socket 322b provided in the second C-element 32b. The joint head 322a and socket 322b are designed such that the first C-element 32a is rotatable relative to the second C-element 32b at least in one spatial direction. Embodiments are conceivable in which the joint head 322a and the socket 322b are designed as ball joints.

[0059] By rotating the first C-element 32a relative to the second C-element 32b, a deformation of the rotation reinforcement 30 can be realized, as shown in Fig. 2c. Of course, other embodiments for forming a joint are also conceivable. For example, an axis can be provided in the second C-element 32b, about which axis a bearing sleeve of the first C-element 32a is arranged to rotate. In the embodiment shown, the connecting element 323 of the first C-element 32a extends through a slotted recess 324 of the second C-element 32b. The slotted recess is oriented in the plane spanned by the transverse direction x and the longitudinal direction y, so that rotation of the first C-element 32a relative to the second C-element 32b is only possible about an axis parallel to the vertical direction z.Rotation about, for example, an axis parallel to the transverse direction x is prevented because the corresponding connecting elements 323 of the first C-elements 32a abut against the slotted recess 324 of the second C-elements 32b arranged behind them, as shown in Figs. 2c and 2d. Each second C-element 32b is a first C-element 32a for the corresponding C-element 32 arranged behind them.

[0060] Fig. 4a shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the locking device 1 according to the invention in an open state. The basic geometry largely corresponds to the explanations for the first embodiment shown in Figs. 1a to 1c. Therefore, only the differences will be discussed here.

[0061] In contrast to the embodiment according to Figs. 1a to 1c, the embodiment of the locking device 1 according to the invention according to Figs. 4a to 4c has a first pressure element 10 which is designed as a curved freeform. This means that the first pressure element 10 already has a curved basic geometry in the unloaded and open state of the locking device 1. This shape enables a more even pressure distribution between the first pressure element 10 and the second pressure element 20 in the closed state of the locking device 1, since the freeform is selected such that the first pressure element 10 rests evenly on the second pressure element 20 in the closed state.This allows the tightness and reliability of the locking device to be further increased, since the pressure is distributed evenly over the entire contact surface and individual point load peaks and, at the same time, corresponding point load valleys in the pressure distribution can be avoided.

[0062] Furthermore, the insertion channel 50 has a first section 51 and a second section 52, which are each straight and arranged at an angle to one another. This results in the formation of a thickening in the first pressure element 10 and a correspondingly oppositely shaped depression in the second pressure element 20. The closing edge 121 of the first pressure element 10 is formed on the thickest part of the first section 51 and closes it off. The counter edge 221 on the second pressure element 20 is correspondingly oppositely shaped and arranged at the thinnest or furthest back point of the depression in the second pressure element 20. The closing edge 121 and the counter edge 221 thus form a positive connection which acts as an anchor point orThe bearing serves to absorb the force that must be exerted on the first pressure element 10 to achieve the closed state. For this purpose, the design of corresponding anchor geometries (not shown in the figures) is particularly conceivable, which would enable a further improvement in the positive locking. Corresponding projections of the closure edge 121 extending into the second pressure element 20 are conceivable.

[0063] The geometry of the anchor point shown in the figure is characterized by two opposing surfaces that are beveled relative to the insertion direction 60 of the locking device 1. These two surfaces can provide a type of centering element, which ensures the correct positioning of the closure edge 121 and the counter-edge 221 and thus the formation of the anchor point. The beveled region of the first pressure element 10 can be referred to as the first section. It thus represents a type of ramp that ensures the positioning of the closure edge 121 in the counter-edge 221.

[0064] Furthermore, the second pressure element 20 has a modified geometry compared to the embodiment according to Fig. 1a to 1c, which is particularly illustrated in Fig. 4b. In the section in which the tightness of the closing device between the first pressure element 10 and the second pressure element 20 is to be established, the second pressure element 20 has a spiral basic shape. The spiral basic shape is designed as a partial section of an Euler spiral. This has a starting surface 21 and an end surface 22, with the starting surface 21 forming the most central point of the spiral. Starting from this point, the radius of the spiral increases up to the end surface. At the starting surface 21, the second pressure element 20 is connected to the rotation reinforcement 30.

[0065] The spiral-shaped second pressure element 20 is not closed, i.e. the spiral encompasses an angle of less than 360 degrees, but has an opening angle α. This is defined by the smallest distance between the starting surface 21 and the end surface 22 of the spiral, starting from the center of the spiral. Furthermore, the end surface 22 is designed such that, when the closing device 1 is in the closed state, it does not lie flat on the starting surface 21 of the spiral. For this purpose, the end surface 22 is beveled by a bevel angle β compared to a theoretical end surface that lies flat in the closed state. In the closed state, as can be seen in Fig. 4c, the end surface 22 therefore only rests on the starting surface 21 at one point. This makes it possible to achieve a defined closed position, even if the second pressure element has manufacturing tolerances with regard to the opening angle α, the spiral shape or the bevel angle β.

[0066] The advantageous effects of the design of the second pressure element 20 according to the embodiment shown in Figs. 4a to 4c are made clear by the illustration in Fig. 4c. When enclosing the spiral-shaped second pressure element 20, the first pressure element 10 presses the second pressure element 20 together so that the latter leaves its spiral-shaped basic shape and closes around the rotation reinforcement. As a result, the material of the second pressure element 20 is not only compressed as in the embodiment shown in Figs. 1a to 1c, but is also simultaneously further deformed in its geometric shape. Since the elastic material of the second pressure element wants to move back to its original shape, i.e. the spiral shape, in addition to the elastic deformation of the material of the second pressure element 20 in the direction of the rotation reinforcement, additional pressure is caused by the spiral shape, which is exerted by the second pressure element 20 from the inside against the first pressure element 10.In addition, the spiral shape allows for better pressure distribution, thus increasing a uniform pressure distribution across the entire surface of the spiral section between the first pressure element 10 and the second pressure element 20. This can further improve the sealing effect.

[0067] Furthermore, the bevel angle ß of the end surface 22 of the second pressure element 20 creates a gap in the closed state of the closing device 1, into which gap fluid, for example water, can penetrate when the closing device 1 is immersed in the fluid. As indicated by the arrows in Fig. 4c, the penetrating fluid generates a surface force on the end surface 22, which is directed such that the second pressure element 20 is pressed into the starting position, as indicated by the dashed arrows. However, this movement is prevented by embracing the first pressure element 10, since the latter is fastened to the first pressure element 10 by the fixing device 40. This leads to an increase in the opposing and canceling forces between the first pressure element 10 and the second pressure element 20, whereby the sealing effect of the closing device 1, which is primarily caused by the opposing forces, can be improved.This design thus makes it possible to achieve a self-compacting property of the closing device 1.

[0068] The embodiment shown in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c, and in particular its function, will be described once again in other words below. The first pressure element 10 is referred to as the (external) tension flap, and the second pressure element 20 is referred to as the (internal) pressure resistance.

[0069] When the pull flap is closed, the anchor point located below and its counter-shape initially engage, preventing the pull flap from being pulled any further over the curve of the counter-element. The anchor point is formed by the positive connection between the closing edge 121 and the counter-edge 221. As the pull flap continues to close, the pre-bent curve of the pull flap, with its circular end shape, fits precisely around the curve and diameter of the counter-element, the internal compression resistance.The pull flap is closed over the entire length of the locking device 1, from the left side across the entire distance to the right side, whereby only the internal access, i.e. the engagement, is closed by the locking device 1 during this process, since the left and right sides of the locking device 1 are automatically connected to one another via the front and back of a pocket that can be closed by the locking device 1. As the flap continues to close, the special shape of the pull flap wraps completely around the counter element of the internal pressure resistance until it is completely enclosed and the flap is fixed to the provided tongue and groove rail, which represents the fixing device 40.The fixation in the tongue and groove rail then ensures even positioning of the pull flap along the entire length of the closure device, so that the pull flap can neither move / shift lengthwise nor open upwards again. Depending on the bag's application, different end closure systems can be used to mechanically fix the tongue and groove rail. For example, the fixation can be achieved using a zipper on the production end of the pull flap, a hook and loop fastener, snap fasteners, magnets, or any other common closure fixation. The fixation, which holds the tongue and groove rail securely together, should therefore be variable as needed and must be freely selectable.

[0070] When the flap is closed as described, the internal compression resistance is completely enclosed and compressed. Due to the special shape of the internal compression resistance as an Euler spiral, reminiscent of the shape of an egg, and consisting of a cut-out section that looks like the cut-out part of a pie chart, the internal compression resistance can be compressed by the flap until the cut-out part of the pie chart touches the inner wall of the construction and, when compressed, transforms into a perfect circle. This means that the opening angle of the Euler spiral allows the egg shape to transform into a circle when pressed closed, while simultaneously building up pressure that acts from the inside out.Or to put it another way: after being compressed into a circular shape, the compressed Euler spiral wants to return to its natural, free-floating position (egg shape) - and thus pushes outwards with its force of movement against the contact pressure of the pull flap.

[0071] When closed, two forces act against each other: the flap acts clockwise against the internal compression resistance, and the internal compression resistance acts counterclockwise against the flap. The resulting pressure ratio between the two elements ensures a completely fluid-tight seal and prevents fluids from penetrating.

[0072] This pressure relationship between these two elements is amplified by another function of the internal compression resistance, or more precisely, by the opening angle of the pie chart mentioned above. As soon as the fluid water / liquids intentionally flows laterally into the outer structure via the remaining free spaces of the structure, i.e. the structure is enclosed in a liquid, the liquid presses against the right-hand inner wall of the opening angle, i.e. against the end piece of the compression resistance, as the room pressure increases. And the more room pressure is created by the penetrating liquid, the more the end piece of the compression resistance presses counterclockwise - thus increasing the pressure between the elements. It can therefore be described as a self-closing system that also increases its own closing force or sealing force as the external pressure increases.The following describes the structure and properties of the individual components of the two elements:.

[0073] The outer pull flap has an anchor point protruding from the inner wall. This has a circular shape, rounded at the top, to adapt to the shape of the inner round element. The anchor point is formed by the positive connection of the closing edge 121 with the counter-edge 221. When the pull flap is closed, the lower anchor point initially hooks into its tip, the opposite angular counter-shape, so that the pull flap can no longer be pulled over the curve of the compression resistance during the closing process. The anchor point thus fixes the mobility of the pull flap and, through its fixation, enables the tension buildup of the pull flap when enclosing the inner compression resistance.

[0074] The forward-curved shape of the drawstring flap is a precisely calculated geometric shape with great importance for the overall function of the bag. It is not merely a flap that is folded down. The forward-curved shape of the drawstring flap is a precisely defined dimension of a wall thickness in relation to the overall size of the closing device 1 - combined with the correct length and the circular end of the curved flap. This means that firstly, the exact length of the drawstring flap combined with secondly its exact curved shape and wall thickness - as well as thirdly the circular end at the inner end of the drawstring flap enable the perfect enclosing of the counter element, the circular "internal pressure resistance". The individual features are interdependent. The special shape of the drawstring flap therefore enables perfect circular closing and prevents the material from bulging, for example.increasing room pressure from outside, which any flap or tab could not achieve.

[0075] The fixing device 40 consists of a protruding block element (the tongue) and a recessed block element (the groove), both of which fit together completely when assembled. The protruding block element fits precisely into the recessed block element, enabling two sides to be joined together with a fixed position. Fixing the positioning then ensures that the pull flap is held evenly over the entire length of the locking mechanism, preventing the pull flap from moving or shifting either lengthwise or crosswise. Depending on the bag's application, different end closure systems can be used for the mechanical fixation of the tongue and groove fixing rail.The fastening can be achieved, for example, with a zipper on the production attachment of the pull-down flap, with a hook-and-loop fastener in the groove and tongue, with snap fasteners in the groove and tongue, with magnets in the groove and tongue, or any other common fastening method. The fastening, which holds the interlocking tongue and groove rails together securely, should therefore be variable as needed and can be freely selected depending on the application: either on the production attachment or directly in the groove and tongue. The internal compression resistance has a square counter-shape to the protruding anchor tip of the pull-down flap.The design is such that the protruding anchor tip of the pull flap fits into the opposing side during the closing process. The two shapes meet to secure the pull flap, preventing it from being pulled further over the curve of the compression resistance during the closing process. The ascending, angled design of the substructure underneath ensures that the inner wall of the pull flap is securely guided to the inner wall of the compression resistance. The interplay of the shapes on the sides thus enables secure fixation, which then allows tension to build up between the pull flap and the compression resistance during the subsequent closing process.

[0076] Viewed in cross-section, the compression element has the shape of an Euler spiral, half of which freely encloses the rotation channel or rotation reinforcement. The compression element has a recess or an opening angle α, like a missing piece in a pie chart. When compressed by the pull flap, the compression element is pressed together into a perfect circle, even if the two end surfaces do not lie flat on one another due to the bevel angle ß. When compressed, the element tries to return to its naturally open position and in doing so builds up counterpressure. In other words, the shape of the compression element allows the egg shape of the Euler spiral to transform into a circle when pressed together, while at the same time building up pressure that acts from the inside out.The opening angle α of the spiral is dimensioned in such a way that the space and distance required by the Euler spiral to deform into a perfect circle in the closed, pressed-together state, until the open end of the Euler spiral hits the inner wall of the structure, is given. In the closed state, the opening angle α shows that it does not lie completely against the inner wall of the opposite side. An open gap remains with a still open bevel, which is defined by the bevel angle β. This is because as soon as the fluid intentionally flows laterally through the remaining free spaces of the structure into the outer structure, i.e. the structure is enclosed in a liquid, the liquid presses against the inner wall of the opening angle α, i.e. against the end piece of the pressing pressure resistance, as the room pressure increases.And the more room pressure is created by the penetrating fluid, the more the end piece of the compression resistance pushes counterclockwise – thus increasing the pressure between itself and the external draft flap. This is a self-closing system that increases its own closing force as the room pressure / external fluid pressure increases, thus exhibiting a self-compacting property.

[0077] The internal center of rotation in cross-section, as shown in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c, is the center around which the entire locking mechanism rotates when viewed from the side. The tensioned flap and the compression element are placed under tension around this center. The rotation reinforcement 30 runs through the center of rotation. This circular center can be adjusted to be smaller or larger within the compression element as needed—or it can even contain two different design variants.

[0078] On the one hand, it can be designed as a fully filled material. Considered in terms of the dimensions of the closing device 1 or a pocket with the closing device 1, the circular center of rotation is an elongated rod along its entire length, i.e., into the plane of the drawing in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c. This rod along the closing device can either be made from the same cast material as the rest of the pocket, but it can also be an inserted rod element with a different hardness (Shore hardness). Both variants, whether made from the same material or with a higher Shore hardness, are referred to as "fully filled material" and must be capable of being produced variably depending on the application area / application requirements.

[0079] On the other hand, another embodiment can feature a guide channel with a C-capsule chain. The C-capsule chain design is intended for products that require very high locking reliability under extreme loads, and where the production costs of the entire product may be higher than for many mass-produced products.

[0080] Figure 5 discloses an embodiment of a stowage device 100 in an embodiment according to the invention. The stowage device 100 represents a rectangular pocket, which comprises an embodiment of the closing device 1 according to the invention for fluid-tightly closing the stowage cavity of the pocket. The pocket comprises ribs 101 that extend in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the rotation reinforcement 30 of the closing device 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the ribs are shown as straight webs of constant thickness or strength, which are arranged parallel to one another at regular intervals. Embodiments of the stowage device are also conceivable in which the ribs 101 have other, in particular organic shapes and vary in their strength and width. For example, circular or differently curved ribs 101 can also be provided.

[0081] The ribs 101 reinforce the structure of the storage device 100 and thus counteract deformation of the storage device 100, particularly when opening and closing the closure device 1. The ribs 101 stabilize the overall tension of the drawstring flap, as they stabilize the back of the storage device 100 and thus reduce its deformation. This ensures even pressure distribution of the closure device 1 across the entire width of the closure device 1. In other words, the ribs 101 improve the tension of the drawstring flap, as the back of the storage device 100 is held more securely, even when there are no objects in the pocket, i.e., the pocket is empty.

[0082] 1 locking device

[0083] 2 storage space

[0084] 10 first printing element

[0085] 11 Handle element

[0086] 12 recess

[0087] 121 closing edge

[0088] 20 second pressure element

[0089] 21 Initial area

[0090] 22 End face

[0091] 221 Counter edge

[0092] 30 Rotational amplification

[0093] 31 guide channel

[0094] 32 C-element

[0095] 32a first C element

[0096] 32b second C element

[0097] 321a rounding

[0098] 321b Counter-rounding

[0099] 322a Rod end

[0100] 322b pan

[0101] 323 connecting element

[0102] 324 slotted recess

[0103] 40 Fixation device

[0104] 41 Fixing element

[0105] 42 Fixation counterpart

[0106] 50 insertion channel 51 first section

[0107] 52 second section

[0108] 60 insertion direction

[0109] 70 gap

[0110] 100 stowage device

[0111] 101 Ribs x Transverse direction y Longitudinal direction z Vertical direction a Opening angle ß Bevel angle

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. A closing device (1) for fluid-tightly closing a storage cavity (2), comprising a first pressure element (10) and a second pressure element (20), which are formed at least in sections from an elastic material, wherein the first pressure element (10) has a closing edge (121) arranged on a recess (12) and the second pressure element (20) has a counter-edge (221), an insertion channel (50) which is arranged between the first pressure element (10) and the second pressure element (20), and through which, in an open state of the closing device (1), an object to be stored can be inserted and / or removed from the storage cavity (2), a rotation reinforcement (30) which is at least partially enclosed by the second pressure element (20), wherein the first pressure element (10) and the second pressure element (20) are designed to transfer the closing device (1) into a closed state,to form a positive connection between the closing edge (121) and the counter edge (221) of the second pressure element (20), and the first pressure element (10) is further designed to enclose the second pressure element (20) in such a way that the latter is received in the recess (12) and experiences a radial force which is oriented in the direction of the rotation reinforcement (30), wherein, in a closed state, the first pressure element (10) is fixed in a position by means of a fixing element (40) in which it encloses the second pressure element (20).

2. Locking device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the rotation reinforcement (30) is deformable in a transverse direction and is not deformable in a vertical direction.

3. Locking device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second pressure element (20) has, in cross-section, at least in sections, the shape of a spiral, in particular an Euler spiral.

4. Locking device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second pressure element (20) is formed in cross-section at least in sections spiral-shaped or circular-segment-shaped and has a constant thickness at least in this section.

5. Locking device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second pressure element (20) has in cross section an end surface (21) which is designed such that the second pressure element (20) does not form a closed circle in the closed state of the locking device (1).

6. Locking device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first pressure element (10) is designed as a curved free form in the open state.

7. Closing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first pressure element (10) has a thickening at the level of the closing edge (121) and the closing edge (121) is arranged at the thickest point of this thickening, wherein furthermore the second sealing element (20) has a recess arranged opposite to the thickening at the level of the counter edge (221) and the closing edge (121) and the counter edge (221) together form a positive connection.

8. Locking device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first pressure element (10) and the second pressure element (20) each have a bevelled surface of opposite configuration, which forms the thickening or depression and which is designed to produce a centering of the closure edge (121) relative to the counter edge (221) during the transition from the open state to the closed state of the locking device (1).

9. Locking device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a length distribution between the first pressure element, the second pressure element and the first pressure element in the cross section through the locking device at the level of the rotation reinforcement in the closed state of the locking device is 20 - 60 - 20.

10. Locking device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first pressure element (10) and the fixing element (40) are arranged such that a force caused by the first pressure element (10) in the closed state of the locking device (1) and acting on the fixing element (40) acts as a shear force in the fixing element (40).

11. Locking device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a magnetic device is provided in the first pressure element (10) and / or in the second pressure element (20), which magnetic device is designed to define a position of the first pressure element (10) relative to the second pressure element (20) before the locking device (1) is transferred into a closed state.

12. Stowage device (100) comprising a closing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims and a storage cavity (20).

13. Stowage device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the Stowage device (100) has ribs which extend in particular in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the rotation reinforcement (30) of the closing device (1).

Images