Connection kit for connecting a first workpiece to a second workpiece, and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection kit (100) for connecting a first workpiece (104a) to a second workpiece (104b), the connection kit comprising a first connector (102a) and a second connector (102b), the first connector (102a) and the second connector (102b) each comprising a fixing portion (106) for fixing the connectors (102a, 102b), and the connectors (102a, 102b) each being arranged at least in regions within a bore (116) of the workpieces (104a, 104b), wherein furthermore the fixing portion (106) of the first connector (102a) is arranged in a bore (116) of the first workpiece (104a), and the fixing portion (106) of the second connector (102b) is arranged in a bore (116) of the second workpiece (104b), and the connectors (102a, 102b) are clamped against one another.

Description

[0001] Connection kit for joining a first workpiece to a second workpiece, and method

[0002] The invention relates to a joining kit for connecting a first workpiece to a second workpiece. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for connecting a first workpiece to a second workpiece.

[0003] Joining two workpieces is a fundamental aspect of numerous technical and craft applications. Especially with wooden workpieces, both the joining technology and the fasteners used play a crucial role in ensuring a stable, durable, and functional connection. Various methods are available, each with specific advantages and disadvantages depending on the application.

[0004] One commonly used method is adhesive bonding, which allows for large-area force transmission and adapts well to different types of wood. However, such bonds are usually irreversible and require careful surface preparation. Furthermore, they are sensitive to moisture and temperature fluctuations, which limits their applications.

[0005] Mechanical fasteners such as screws, nails, bolts, or dowels offer the advantage of quick and often reversible assembly. However, they tend to loosen under repeated stress and require precise pre-drilling, which can weaken the structure of the workpiece.

[0006] Traditional wood joints such as mortise and tenon or finger joints are known for their high stability and attractive appearance, but are complex to manufacture and lose strength under the influence of changing environmental conditions, such as humidity. Hybrid joints, which combine adhesives and mechanical elements, attempt to unite the advantages of both approaches, but are costly and labor-intensive to install.

[0007] The known joining technologies therefore have limitations regarding durability, flexibility, and ease of use. In particular, known joining technologies have disadvantages regarding the ease of joining without the use of tools.

[0008] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a connection kit and a method with which two workpieces can be easily and reliably joined together.

[0009] With regard to the connection kit, the problem is solved according to the invention by a connection kit having the features of claim 1. With regard to the method, the problem is solved according to the invention by a method having the features of claim 14. Preferred embodiments, further developments and variants are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0010] The advantages and preferred designs listed with regard to the connection kit are to be applied analogously to the process and vice versa.

[0011] The connection kit according to the invention is designed for connecting a first workpiece to a second workpiece. For this purpose, the connection kit comprises a first connector and a second connector, wherein the first connector and the second connector each have a fixing section for fixing the connectors in the workpieces.

[0012] The connectors are arranged, at least partially, in bores of the workpieces, with the fixing section of the first connector being arranged in a bore of the first workpiece and the fixing section of the second connector being arranged in a bore of the second workpiece. Furthermore, the two connectors are mutually interlocked.

[0013] The mutual interlocking of the two connectors ensures that the respective fixing areas are seated in the corresponding bore of the workpiece and also form a connection with the workpiece. This connection can be, for example, a force-fit, form-fit, and / or friction-fit connection. In other words, the fixing sections connect the respective connectors to the respective workpieces, and the mutual clamping connects the two connectors to each other, thus connecting the two workpieces in a simple manner. Preferably, the two connectors are inserted manually into the bores of the workpieces, i.e., without tools, and the two workpieces are also preferably pressed together manually, i.e., without tools, for example, by pressing the two workpieces together by hand.

[0014] The first and second workpieces can preferably be made of the same material, for example, wood. Alternatively, the two workpieces can also be made of different materials. For example, the joining kit makes it possible to easily and reliably join workpieces made of different materials. The first workpiece could therefore be made of wood, and the second workpiece could be made of concrete or metal.

[0015] The connection kit according to the invention enables a simple, quick, and, in particular, invisible connection of the two workpieces. Furthermore, no tools are required, which simplifies assembly and, in particular, provides a time advantage compared to other known connections. The connection kit according to the invention also allows for end-to-end mounting.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the fixing section of each connector extends over a maximum of half the length of the respective connector. In particular, the fixing section extends over a maximum of one-third, and more preferably over a maximum of one-quarter, of the length of the respective connector.

[0017] In another embodiment, the fixing section extends circumferentially over a maximum of half the total circumference of the respective connector. Preferably, the fixing section extends circumferentially over a maximum of one-third, and more preferably over a maximum of one-quarter, of the total circumference of the respective connector. Both of the aforementioned embodiments result in a simple design of the connectors and ensure that the fixing sections provide sufficient securing and retention of the connectors within the workpiece bores.

[0018] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the first connector and the second connector each have a stop surface, in particular a flat stop surface, wherein the stop surfaces of the connectors abut each other to clamp the connectors in the bores. In other words, the connectors are semicircular in cross-section. The stop surface is preferably arranged on a side of the connector opposite the fixing area. That is, in cross-section, the connector has the fixing area on one side, extending over a maximum of half of its total circumference, and the stop surface on the other side.

[0019] Preferably, the stop surfaces of the connectors rest against each other when the connectors are positioned in the workpiece bores. By resting against the stop surfaces, the fixing areas are pressed into or towards the workpiece, thus providing sufficient fixation. In other words, when positioned in the bores, the two connectors are locked against each other by and with the aid of the stop surfaces. Therefore, other parts, especially additional ones, for achieving and securing the fixation can be dispensed with.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the two adjacent connectors have an overall diameter that is 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm, and in particular 0.2 mm, larger than the diameter of the respective bores in the workpieces. For the purposes of this application, the term "adjacent connectors" can be understood to mean that the contact surfaces of the connectors abut each other, thus clamping the connectors in the bores. For the purposes of this application, the term "overall diameter" can be understood to mean the diameter that two adjacent connectors have when they are located in the bores of the workpieces. Due to the slightly larger diameter of the two connectors compared to the diameter of the bores, a reliable and secure clamping or press fit is achieved, resulting in a secure and strong connection between the two workpieces.In this context, reference can be made to the applicable fit tables and relevant standards regarding possible press fits.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, a press fit can also be achieved by cooling at least one of the two workpieces through the application of cold, causing the material of at least one workpiece to contract.

[0022] It can be advantageous if the fixing section has several fixing elements. Preferably, the fixing area has between 4 and 15, more preferably between 3 and 12, and particularly between 8 and 10 fixing elements.

[0023] The specified number of fixing elements allows for easy assembly and manufacturing of the connectors. At the same time, these fixing elements are sufficient to ensure secure fixation of the connectors and thus also of the two workpieces to each other.

[0024] According to further training, the multiple fixing elements have different lengths and / or distances from each other. In other words, the spacing between the fixing elements within the fixing section can vary from one fixing element to the next. For example, the fixing elements located at one end of the fixing section can be spaced further apart than those located at the other end. This can facilitate the insertion of the connectors into the bores.

[0025] For the purposes of this application, the term "length of the fixing element" can be understood as the radial extent of the fixing element. In other words, the length of the fixing element describes how far it extends radially from the base body of the connector. In one embodiment, the fixing elements are designed as sharp-edged flanks and / or as pins. For the purposes of this application, the term "sharp-edged flanks" can be understood as (projecting) roof-like projections that, when the stop surface is in contact with the connector and the connector is positioned in the bores of the workpieces, penetrate the respective workpiece and thus ensure fixation, in particular preventing the connector from being pulled out of the bore. Such fixing elements are particularly suitable for "softer materials" such as wood or plastic.

[0026] Furthermore, the angle of the fixing elements, in particular the angle of the fixing elements designed as sharp-edged flanks, is chosen such that the connector nests into the respective bore when the two workpieces are joined, in order to press the two workpieces against each other better and more strongly.

[0027] Alternatively, other geometries are also conceivable that allow the connectors to be fixed in the manner mentioned above.

[0028] The fixing elements can preferably be formed monolithically, i.e., as a single piece, on the connector. In other words, the connector with the fixing elements is preferably monolithic and thus has no other parts. This emphasizes the simple design of the connector. Alternatively, at least some of the fixing elements, preferably all of them, can be arranged on the connector, for example, by gluing, welding, or snapping them on. This alternative embodiment allows, for example, the fixing elements to be replaced while simultaneously allowing the rest of the connector to be reused when the fixing elements wear out.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, according to one embodiment, the fixing section has a coating, in particular a rubber and / or polyurethane coating. The coating also ensures that the connector is fixed within the bore and thus secured against being pulled out, thereby creating the connection between the two workpieces. This embodiment is suitable, for example, for "harder materials" such as concrete or metal.

[0030] According to further training, the fixing section can also have a recess into which at least one fixing element, in particular a fixing element designed as a rubber insert, is inserted.

[0031] It goes without saying that the aforementioned fixing elements and their connectors can also be used in combination to join workpieces made of different materials. For example, a connection kit might include a connector with a fixing section equipped with prongs and another connector with a fixing section featuring a rubber coating. This connection kit allows, for instance, a wooden workpiece and a concrete workpiece to be easily joined. The fixing section with the prongs is positioned in the bore of the wooden workpiece, and the connector with the rubber-coated fixing section is positioned in the bore of the concrete workpiece. Thus, the individual connectors in the connection kit can be optimally adapted to the workpieces being joined.

[0032] According to one practical embodiment, the first connector and the second connector each have a stop. The stop serves to limit the penetration depth into the bores. In a simple embodiment, the stop can, for example, be designed as a circumferential thickening or flank.

[0033] To create a reversible connection between the two workpieces, it can be advantageous for the first connector and / or the second connector to have a locking element. This locking element could, for example, be a locking plate positioned between the two contact surfaces of the connectors. To release the connectors and thus the connection, the locking plate is removed, thereby releasing the clamping force and allowing the connection to be "loosened" and removed to separate the two workpieces. Alternatively, the locking element could be a locking bolt. Preferably, the locking element, whether designed as a locking plate or a locking bolt, could be magnetic, particularly electromagnetic, and removed using appropriate magnetic tools to release the connection.

[0034] According to a further development, the first connector and / or the second connector has a taper at one end, which is opposite the fixing section in the longitudinal direction. For the purposes of this application, the term "taper" can be understood as a reduction in the diameter in the aforementioned section of the connector. This tapered contour of the connector makes it easier to insert into the respective bore of the workpiece, thus simplifying assembly.

[0035] According to a further embodiment, the first connector and / or the second connector has an anti-rotation device. The anti-rotation device is preferably designed as a fin extending in the longitudinal direction of the connector and located on the side of the connector opposite the contact surface in cross-section. More preferably, when the connector is installed in the bore, the anti-rotation device engages with the material of the respective workpiece to prevent the connector from rotating. The anti-rotation device can also preferably serve as a torque support.

[0036] In one embodiment, the first connector and / or the second connector comprises a metal. In particular, the first connector and / or the second connector is made of a metal. This allows for both simple manufacturing of the connectors and a robust design. Depending on the application and area of ​​use, the connectors can be made of different materials and / or metals and / or metal alloys. Non-limiting examples of such materials are stainless steel, titanium, or rigid plastics.

[0037] The method for joining a first workpiece to a second workpiece using a joining kit comprises the following steps: a) providing a hole in both the first and second workpieces; b) inserting a first connector into the hole of the first workpiece, with a fixing section of the first connector being positioned in the hole; c) positioning a second connector in the hole of the first workpiece such that a stop surface of the second connector and a stop surface of the first connector are in contact; d) positioning the second workpiece on the first connector and the second connector such that a fixing section of the second connector is positioned in the hole of the second workpiece;e) Pressing the two workpieces together so that a clamping fit is formed to fix the two workpieces together by means of the fixing sections arranged within the bores and the contact of the stop surfaces.;

[0038] The connection kit used in the process is preferably the connection kit described above.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the method, step e) is carried out with the aid of a force amplifier, in particular a mechanical force amplifier. The force amplifier can, for example – but is not limited to this – in the simplest case be a hammer, and furthermore, for example, a pneumatic or hydraulic press. Alternatively, suitable machines and their tools, e.g., the forks of a forklift or the bucket of a construction machine, can also be used.

[0040] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. These show, in some cases in a highly simplified form:

[0041] Fig. 1a is a perspective view of a connector of a connection kit according to the invention;

[0042] Fig. 1b shows a perspective view of the connection kit according to a first embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2a-c shows a side view of various stages during the joining process of two workpieces using the connection kit according to the invention;

[0043] Fig. 3 shows a schematic side view of an enlarged fixing area of ​​a connector according to a second embodiment of the invention; and

[0044] Fig. 4 shows a schematic side view of an enlarged fixing area of ​​a connector according to a third embodiment.

[0045] In the figures, identical or equivalent components are always represented with the same reference symbols.

[0046] In Figs. 1a and 1b, a connection kit 100 (see Fig. 1b) and a connector 102 are shown in detail (Fig. 1a) in a perspective view.

[0047] The connecting kit 100 serves to connect a first workpiece 104a to a second workpiece 104b (see Figs. 2b, 2c). As can be seen in Fig. 1b, the connecting kit 100 comprises a first connector 102a and a second connector 102b. Both connectors 102a, b, according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1b, are identical in construction and are shown in detail in Fig. 1a. For the sake of simplicity, the features listed below for one connector 102 therefore apply equally to both the first connector 102a and the second connector 102b, unless differences are explicitly indicated.

[0048] Both the first connector 102a and the second connector 102b have a fixing section 106. The fixing section 106 serves to fix the connectors 102. The fixing and, in particular, the joining of the two workpieces 104a, b will be explained in more detail with reference to Figs. 2a-c.

[0049] The connector 102 is preferably pin-shaped. Furthermore, the fixing section 106 extends over a maximum of half the length L of the connector 102. Preferably, the fixing section 106 extends over a maximum of one-third of the length L and, in particular, over a maximum of one-quarter of the length L of the connector 102.

[0050] Furthermore, the fixing section 106 extends in the circumferential direction U over a maximum of half the total circumference of the connector 102. Preferably, the fixing section 106 extends in the circumferential direction U over a maximum of one third and, in particular, over a maximum of one quarter of the total circumference of the connector 102.

[0051] According to the embodiment of the connector 102 shown in Fig. 1a, it has several fixing elements 108. For example, the fixing section 106 of the connector 102 shown has seven fixing elements 108. The fixing elements 108 serve to fix the connector 102 in the respective workpiece 104, as will be explained in more detail with reference to Figs. 2a-c.

[0052] The fixing elements 108 also have different lengths 1 and / or distances a from each other. In the first embodiment of the connector 102 shown in Fig. 1a, the fixing elements are designed as sharp-edged flanks that engage in the workpiece 104 to fix the connector 102 in it.

[0053] Furthermore, the connector 102 has a taper 112 at one end 110, which is located opposite the fixing section 106 in the longitudinal direction. According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1a, the taper 112 is designed as a chamfer.

[0054] The connector 102 also has a stop 114. As indicated in Fig. 1a, the stop 114 can be designed as a flank arranged at least partially around the circumference. Alternatively, the stop 114 can also be designed as a thickening.

[0055] Fig. 1b shows the connecting kit 100 with the first connector 102a and the second connector 102b in a pre-assembled state. Here, the first connector 102a is arranged in a bore 116 of the first workpiece 104a. Specifically, the first connector 102a is arranged in the bore 116 such that the fixing section 106 of the first connector 102a is located in the bore 116 and the end 110 protrudes from the bore 116. The first connector 102a is thus only partially located in the bore 116.

[0056] Correspondingly, the second connector 102b is arranged. That is, the end 110 of the second connector 102b is positioned in the bore 116 of the first workpiece 104a and is clamped against the portion of the first connector 102a that is located in the bore 116. Each connector 102 has a stop surface 118 located on the side opposite the fixing section 106 in cross-section. The stop surfaces 118 of the two connectors 102 abut each other in the state shown in Fig. 1b, so that the two connectors 102 support each other. The stop surface 118 preferably extends over the entire length L of the connector 102. Furthermore, the stop surface 118 is flat to ensure reliable contact between the two connectors 102.

[0057] Furthermore, the first connector 102a and / or the second connector 102b has a locking element 120. The locking element 120 serves to additionally secure the connection of the two workpieces 104. In addition, the locking element 120 can be easily released with a tool, for example a screwdriver, to loosen the connection of the two workpieces 104.

[0058] The perspective view shown in Fig. 1b is also shown in a side view in Fig. 2a. This shows again the fixing area 106 of the first connector 102a, which is seated in the bore 116 of the first workpiece 104a. It can also be seen how the two connectors 102 abut each other with their stop surfaces 118 and clamp each other.

[0059] In order to connect the first workpiece 104a with the second workpiece 104b, the second workpiece 104b is arranged as shown in Fig. 2b such that the fixing area 106 of the second connector 102b and the end 110 of the first connector 102a are arranged in a bore 118 of the second workpiece 104b, in particular, are seated in it.

[0060] Thus, the fixing area 106 of the first connector 102a is arranged in the bore of the first workpiece 104a, and the fixing area 106 of the second connector 102b is arranged in the bore 116 of the second workpiece 104b. This specific arrangement is important for the next joining step.

[0061] After arranging the second workpiece 104b as shown in Fig. 2b, the two workpieces 104 are pressed together. Alternatively, one of the workpieces 104 can be pressed onto the other workpiece 104. As the two workpieces 104 are pressed together, the connectors 102 slide along their stop surfaces 118 and deeper into the respective bore 116. Due to the counter-action of the stop surfaces 118, the fixing sections 106 and, in particular, the fixing elements 108 shown in Fig. 2c are pressed into the respective workpiece 104, forming a fixation there. After the two workpieces 104 are completely pressed together, so that preferably no gap remains between them, a reliable and simple connection between these two workpieces 104 is established, which, according to the invention, is achieved by the fixing elements and the mutual counter-action of the two connectors 102.It is therefore preferable to do without the use of tools, since the corresponding geometry of the connectors 102 means that less force has to be exerted than with previously known connectors or connection kits.

[0062] To further increase the press fit of the two connectors 102 within the bores 116, the connectors 102 preferably have an overall diameter D that is 0.1mm to 0.3mm, in particular 0.2mm larger than the diameter of the respective bores 116 of the workpieces 104.

[0063] Figure 3 shows a detailed side view of a fixing section 106 of a connector 102. This illustration shows a second embodiment of the fixing section 106 and, in particular, the fixing elements 108. The fixing elements 108 according to the embodiment shown in Figure 3 are designed as domes. This is a reliable alternative to the sharp-edged flanks shown in Figures 1 and 2. Both designs are particularly suitable if at least one of the two workpieces 104 is made of wood. The flanks and / or the prongs can then press into the wood when the two workpieces 104 are pressed together, thus creating a fixation. Figure 4 shows a side view of another alternative fixing section 106 and, in particular, an alternative embodiment of the fixing elements 108. In this third embodiment, a rubber element is used as the fixing element 108.The rubber-type fixing element 106 is particularly suitable when the workpiece 104 to be joined is made of concrete or metal, where penetration of the fixing elements 108, as with a wooden workpiece 104, is difficult due to the hardness of the material. The rubber element nevertheless provides reliable fixation of the connector 102 within the bore 116. Additionally, but optionally, the fixing section 106 has a recess 122 into which the rubber-type fixing element 108 is inserted.

[0064] This optional further training makes it possible to use a larger fixing element 108, which has a greater fixing effect.

[0065] The features of the invention disclosed in the present description, the drawings, and the claims can be essential for realizing the invention in its various embodiments, both individually and in any combination. The invention can be varied within the scope of the claims and taking into account the knowledge of the person skilled in the art.

[0066] Reference number list

[0067] 100 connection kit

[0068] 102a first connector

[0069] 102b second connector

[0070] 104a first workpiece

[0071] 104b second work piece

[0072] 106 Fixing section

[0073] 108 fixing elements

[0074] 110 End of connector

[0075] 112 Rejuvenation

[0076] 114 attacks

[0077] 116 bore

[0078] 118 Stop surface

[0079] 120 safety element

[0080] 122 recess

[0081] D Total diameter

[0082] L Length of the connector

[0083] 1 Length of the fixing element a Distance between two fixing elements

[0084] U Circumferential direction of the connector

Claims

Claims 1. Connecting kit (100) for connecting a first workpiece (104a) to a second workpiece (104b), comprising a first connector (102a) and a second connector (102b), wherein the first connector (102a) and the second connector (102b) each have a fixing section (106) for fixing the connectors (102a, 102b) and the connectors (102a, 102b) are arranged at least partially in a bore (116) of the workpieces (104a, 104b), wherein furthermore the fixing section (106) of the first connector (102a) is arranged in a bore (116) of the first workpiece (104a) and the fixing section (106) of the second connector (102b) is arranged in a bore (116) of the second workpiece (104b) and the connectors (102a, 102b) are mutually jammed.

2. Connection kit (100) according to claim 1, wherein the fixing section (106) extends over a maximum of half the length (L) of the respective connector (102a, 102b).

3. Connection kit (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fixing section (106) extends in the circumferential direction (U) over a maximum of half the total circumference of the respective connector (102a, 102b).

4. Connection kit (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector (102a) and the second connector (102b) each have a stop surface (118), in particular a flat stop surface (118), wherein the stop surfaces (118) of the connectors (102a, 102b) abut each other in order to clamp the connectors (102a, 102b) in the bores (116).

5. Connecting kit (100) according to claim 4, wherein the two adjacent connectors (102a, 102b) have an overall diameter (D) which is 0.1mm to 0.3mm, in particular 0.2mm larger than the diameter of the respective bores (116) of the workpieces (104a, 104b).

6. Connection kit (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing section (106) has several fixing elements (108).

7. Connection kit (100) according to claim 6, wherein the multiple fixing elements (108) have different lengths (1) and / or distances (a) to each other.

8. Connecting kit (100) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the fixing elements (108) are designed as sharp-edged flanks and / or as pins.

9. Connection kit (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fixing section (106) has a coating, in particular a rubber and / or polyurethane coating.

10. Connection kit (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector (102a) and the second connector (102b) each have a stop (114) to limit the penetration depth into the bores (116).

11. Connection kit (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector (102a) and / or the second connector (102b) comprises a locking element (120).

12. Connection kit (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector (102a) and / or the second connector (102b) has a taper (112) at an end (110) which is opposite the fixing section (106) in the longitudinal direction.

13. Connection kit (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector (102a) and / or the second connector (102b) comprise a metal, in particular are made of a metal.

14. Method for joining a first workpiece (104a) to a second workpiece (104b) by means of a joining kit (100) according to one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the steps: a) providing the first workpiece (104a) and the second workpiece (104b) with a bore (116) each; 18 b) Inserting a first connector (102a) into the bore (116) of the first workpiece (104a), wherein a fixing section (106) of the first connector (102a) is arranged in the bore (116); c) Arranging a second connector (102b) in the bore (116) of the first workpiece (104a) such that a stop surface (118) of the second connector (102b) and a stop surface (118) of the first connector (102a) abut each other; d) Arranging the second workpiece (104b) on the first connector (102a) and the second connector (102b) such that a fixing section (106) of the second connector (102b) is arranged in the bore (116) of the second workpiece (104b); e) Pressing the two workpieces (104a, 104b) together so that a clamping fit is formed to fix the two workpieces (104a, 104b) together by means of the fixing sections (106) arranged within the bores (116) and the contact of the stop surfaces (118).

15. Method according to claim 11, wherein step e) is carried out using a force amplifier.

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