Holding device for holding identification carriers
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2026/058244
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-28
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-01
Smart Images
Figure EP2026058244_01102026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Holding device for holding label carriers
[0002] The invention relates to a holding device for holding identification carriers according to the preamble of claim 1 and a device for processing identification carriers according to claim 14, which includes a aforementioned holding device.
[0003] Identification carriers serve to attach a marking to an object. In industrial environments, it is crucial that a marking is clearly readable and usable even under adverse environmental conditions and is also resistant to external environmental influences in order to fulfill its marking function on the object to be marked in the long term or permanently.
[0004] Thus, such marking carriers meet a higher level of requirements and a broader range of requirements regarding resistance to external environmental influences compared to those in the consumer sector, for example, those requiring high resistance to heat, acid, oil, light, UV and chemicals, as well as high resistance to mechanical impacts.
[0005] These requirements are generally not imposed separately, but combined, on marking devices of the type in question for use in the industrial sector. Marking devices of the type in question can therefore also be referred to as industrial marking devices.
[0006] To facilitate handling of the identification carriers, they are provided in a predetermined arrangement by a holding device of the relevant type. Such devices are known, for example, from EP2966003A1, GB2048817A and US4055249A.
[0007] The aforementioned marking carriers can be used to simplify the application of markings to the carrier. Particularly in industrial applications, it is crucial that markings are precisely applied to the carrier and positioned accordingly. This is essential, among other things, for the quick and accurate detection of markings, enabling the identification of the marked objects.
[0008] The holding devices for holding identification carriers, known, for example, from DE102014004342A1, are equipped with a holding body on which at least one holding position for holding an identification carrier is provided and designed. The holding device therefore also includes an identification carrier bounded by an outer edge.
[0009] Furthermore, the holding position has at least one recess into which the identification carrier is releasably received in a receiving state, such that an edge of the recess (recess edge) forms a frame for the identification carrier. This frame ensures that a position for the identification carrier is predetermined on the identification carrier, making it easier to position and hold it in this position on the identification carrier or its holding element. Within the scope of the invention, a receiving state is characterized in that the identification carrier is arranged on the holding element in the relevant recess and is held therein by the holding means.
[0010] The commonly used marking carriers often employ auxiliary materials, such as adhesives, to securely attach them to the mounting body. However, this has proven disadvantageous, as removing the marking carriers from the mounting body is difficult and therefore time-consuming. Furthermore, the auxiliary materials must be specifically formulated for the marking carriers to prevent damage.
[0011] The object of the invention is to provide a holding device that enables the easy removal of the marking carriers.
[0012] Furthermore, the invention departs from the approach of requiring the use of auxiliary tools to detach the label carrier from the holding body. Moreover, the invention departs from the approach of providing predetermined breaking points that, on the one hand, enable secure retention in a position on the holding body and, on the other hand, facilitate removal by means of the intended weak points.
[0013] The invention solves the problem in a simple way by means of holding means which are designed to hold the marking carrier to the holding body in a force-fit manner, such that the marking carrier can be removed from the holding position without damage.
[0014] Within the scope of the invention, "non-destructive" is understood to mean, in particular, the removal of an identification carrier in which both the identification carrier and the holding body remain undamaged.
[0015] Within the scope of the invention, a force-fit holding is understood to mean one in which, in particular, no material bond occurs, for example under the effect of an adhesive or as a result of molecular interactions or adhesion.
[0016] The invention thus eliminates the need for auxiliary materials to connect the marking carrier to the holding body, thereby also eliminating the need to detach the connection via these auxiliary materials. The invention takes into account that auxiliary materials have the property of adhering to the marking carrier, so any residue of the auxiliary material must be removed before the marking carrier can be used as intended. The holding effect of the holding means can be achieved, for example, and in particular, by means of a clamping force. This ensures that the marking carrier is held securely in the relevant recess.
[0017] The recess created for the identifier can be designed by selecting a suitable recess shape. This can be achieved, for example, and in particular, by shaping the recess edge to correspond to the outer edge of the identifier in such a way that, when the retaining element is in the holding position, the outer edge rests at least partially against the recess edge under the influence of a clamping force acting on the outer edge. Such a design creates an interference fit for the identifier. A removal opening can be provided, for example, to allow the identifier to be removed from the holding body. This removal opening can extend into the recess from one side, making the identifier accessible and allowing it to be removed from the recess by pushing, pushing, and / or levering it out.
[0018] The invention takes into account, as an option, that the marking carrier can be removed from the holding body both with an aid or tool and without tools or additional aids (aid-free).
[0019] By enclosing the marking carrier, the recess edge of the recess is designed to match an outer edge contour of the marking carrier in such a way that the outer edge is at least partially complementary to an outer edge of the marking carrier. This ensures that, in the receiving state of the respective marking carrier, a recess edge of the recess rests at least partially against the outer edge of the marking carrier.
[0020] To generate a holding effect, it has proven sufficient within the scope of the invention if the outer edge of the marking carrier rests at least at specific points against the edge of the recess. In the simplest case, two points would suffice, positioned relative to each other on the outer edge of the recess. The greater the number of points of contact, the stronger the holding effect. Accordingly, the term "section-wise" also includes point contact of the outer edge of the marking carrier against the edge of the recess. The invention also takes into account that multiple holding positions can be provided on the holding body, so that a plurality of marking carriers can be held on the holding body. The invention also considers that the marking carriers can be of different shapes.Furthermore, the marking carriers can, for example, and in particular, be arranged parallel to a plane on the holding body of the holding device. Within the scope of the invention, it is possible to design a recess in such a way that it is compatible with a multitude of differently shaped marking carriers without requiring any adaptation of the recesses to the shape of the marking carriers.
[0021] Furthermore, beneficial further training opportunities are listed in the sub-requirements.
[0022] The invention provides that, for receiving and removing the marking carrier, the holding means have at least one component which, in a holding state, creates a holding effect and, in a further release state, releases the marking carrier for removal from the recess.
[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the holding means have at least one elastic spring leg which, in the receiving state, exerts a spring force on an outer edge of the marking carrier arranged in the recess, such that, in conjunction with the recess edge, the marking carrier is held clamped in the recess. This achieves a holding state for the holding means.
[0024] Due to the elasticity of the spring arm, it can be flexibly adjusted to suit differently shaped label carriers. Furthermore, this elastic deformability allows the clamping force for holding the label carrier to the holder to be easily generated and released. This is achieved automatically by the spring arm.
[0025] The invention thus generates a spring or clamping force for the identification carrier in a simple manner using at least one elastically deformable spring leg. This allows the spring leg to be deformed under load and to return to its original shape under unloaded load. Under load, the spring leg would bear against the outer edge of the identification carrier, exerting a spring force.
[0026] In the unloaded state, the retaining elements would be released to allow the marking carrier to be detached or removed from the recess. In an unloaded state, the retaining elements or at least one spring leg are in a resting state.
[0027] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is possible to provide a recess with an elastic spring arm, or even multiple elastic spring arms, which interact to hold the marking carrier. It is also possible for a spring arm to be designed and arranged such that it is associated with several recesses. In principle, it is possible to generate a spring force in the load state in multiple ways. Therefore, the invention provides that the spring arm acts on the outer edge of the marking carrier and generates the spring force or clamping force in interaction with it.
[0028] The invention thus achieves the advantage that, due to the elasticity of the spring leg, no further aids or additional elements are necessary to securely hold the marking carrier on the holding body.
[0029] The invention takes into account that the spring arm is designed such that it partially overlaps the outer edge of the marking carrier. This enables secure holding, as the spring arm further restricts the freedom of movement by overlapping the outer edge. This effectively prevents the marking carrier from leaving its intended position in the recess, for example, from detaching itself from the recess. Conversely, the invention also provides that the outer edge of the marking carrier is not overlapped by the spring arm, so that the area for applying a marking can be maximized.
[0030] Against this background, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the spring arm is arranged on the holding body such that the spring arm can be deflected at least partially towards the recess, such that in a rest state, in which it is unloaded, the spring arm is deflected at least partially in the direction of the recess or projects into it, and in a loaded state, in which it rests against the outer edge of the marking carrier and exerts a spring force on the outer edge, it is deflected at least partially in a direction opposite to the recess. In the receiving state, the spring force, through interaction with the edge of the recess, generates a clamping force on the marking carrier inserted therein and resting at least partially against the edge of the recess.Due to the elastic deformability of the spring arm, it is possible to generate the spring force required to hold the label holder. This ensures that the clamping force adjusts itself automatically through the deformation of the spring arm.
[0031] Within the scope of the invention, there are numerous possibilities for designing a spring leg and arranging it on the recess in such a way that the aforementioned holding effect can be generated by means of the spring force.
[0032] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spring leg extends longitudinally between a first end and a second end and is connected to the holding body by means of the first and / or the second end in a material-bonded manner. The spring leg can, for example, and in particular, be integrally formed with the holding body, so that the holding body and the spring leg are integrally connected or formed as one piece.
[0033] This design ensures that the spring arm is captive and securely attached to the holding body. Furthermore, it offers the advantage that the spring arm and holding body can be manufactured together. This design also provides advantages in terms of handling and logistics.
[0034] The shape of the spring leg can be adjusted within wide limits. For example, and in particular, the spring leg is designed as a rod-shaped element within the scope of the invention, so that its shape also promotes elastic deformability. Accordingly, it is possible within the scope of the invention to design the spring leg in the manner of a leaf spring. This results in further advantages in the design and handling of a holding device.
[0035] Furthermore, it is possible, for example, and in particular, for the spring leg to be shaped like a bridge, in which it is connected to the holding body, especially by a material bond, at its first end and at the second end between which the spring leg extends longitudinally. Within the scope of the invention, an advantageous embodiment has been shown which simplifies the manufacture of a spring leg by forming the spring leg with a recess, in particular a hole, located close to the edge of the recess.
[0036] The further development provides that the retaining body has at least one second recess, in particular a hole, located close to the edge of the recess, which is designed and arranged in such a way that the spring leg is formed by a section of the retaining body formed between the second recess and the edge of the recess.
[0037] Within the scope of the invention, the recess can, for example, and in particular, be shaped like an elongated hole and extend section by section parallel to the outer edge of the recess provided for the marking carrier. This further development of the invention offers the advantage that existing marking carriers can be easily adapted by means of a second recess to form a spring leg.
[0038] Furthermore, it is possible to modify the spring arm at a later time by adjusting the second recess, for example with regard to the generation of a spring force or spring stiffness, or with regard to elastic deformability. The invention thus achieves the advantage that the spring arm can be easily adapted to the respective requirements for the holding effect on the marking carrier by designing the second recess.
[0039] A second recess can also be used to limit the deformability of the spring arm. This can be used to prevent overloading of the spring arm.
[0040] Furthermore, the invention provides, in addition to the first second recess, a second recess arranged parallel to it, so that the recess edge extends on both sides of this second recess. This is particularly advantageous when the recess for receiving the marking carrier has a base that limits the recess on one side, thus forming the recess in the manner of a depression or blind hole on the holding body. This increases the flexibility of the spring arm. The spring arm would then be formed by two recesses between which the spring arm extends longitudinally.
[0041] As already described, within the scope of the invention it is possible to fix the spring leg at one end to the holding body, so that one of the free ends of the spring leg is designed in such a way that it can be deflected in the direction of the recess and in the opposite direction by the elastic deformability of the spring leg.
[0042] In this context, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that one of the ends is directed towards the recess.
[0043] This invention achieves the advantage that the spring leg can be used for a variety of different sized marking carriers, as the length of the spring leg or the distance between the free end and the other end can be selected accordingly. Furthermore, it is possible to shorten the length of the spring leg to fit the respective marking carrier. This allows the invention to be adapted to the specific marking carriers being held. In a further embodiment of the invention, the section of the spring leg formed between the first end and the second end, with a side facing the recess, forms a section of the recess edge.
[0044] Within the scope of the invention, it has been shown that the holding effect can be improved by appropriately designing the spring arm. Furthermore, it has been shown that this simplifies handling.
[0045] Moreover, this simplifies the production of a labeling element. Furthermore, it improves handling with regard to the use of suitable labeling elements, thus preventing incorrect operation. It allows for the coding of a recess so that only the appropriate labeling elements can be inserted. Finally, it enables the creation of a compact holding device or its holding element.
[0046] To allow for adjustment of the spring force, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the spring leg has a projection on the side facing the recess, which projects in the direction of the recess. Particularly in a resting state, this projection can extend into the recess.
[0047] The invention allows the projection to be arranged and shaped in a variety of ways. For example, and in particular, it can be shaped like a bulge, resulting in easy removal of the marking carrier from the recess or from the holding body.
[0048] Furthermore, this simplifies handling by allowing the curvature to interact with the outer edge of the marking carrier, thus enabling precise deflection of the spring arm. The projection can be arc-shaped, forming a kind of bulge that extends towards the recess. Within the scope of the invention, the projection also includes a design for the spring arm such that it extends longitudinally, at least partially, in an arc between its first and second ends towards the recess.
[0049] Furthermore, the spring arm, through a point load on the outer edge of the marking carrier, creates a precise or increased clamping force. The invention also facilitates the arrangement of the marking carrier in the recess. Finally, the invention allows the spring force, and thus the resulting clamping force, to be adjusted by means of the overhang or the shape of the overhang. This makes it possible to subsequently reduce the spring / clamping force by adjusting the recess accordingly. According to the invention, the marking carrier is inserted into a recess to securely hold it in position. For this purpose, the recess can be designed in various ways within the scope of the invention.
[0050] For example, and in particular, the recess is formed between a top and a bottom of the holding body, wherein the recess has at least one first opening directed towards the top of the recess.
[0051] According to the invention, the recess is limited on the underside. This allows the spring arm to exert only a small spring force on the marking carrier inserted into the recess, in order to hold it securely in position. Furthermore, the position within the recess is predetermined by the underside, thus simplifying the handling of the holding device.
[0052] In this context, however, it has become apparent that for some marking carriers, it is essential to be able to apply markings to both sides. For this to be possible, the carrier must be accessible from both sides for marking. This can be achieved by removing the marking carrier from the recess, turning it over, and then reinserting it in the recess in the reversed state. This results in handling procedures that can be quite time-consuming.
[0053] To reduce the handling processes, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the recess has at least one second opening directed towards the underside, which forms an access to the recess.
[0054] This offers the advantage that a marking can be applied to the marking carrier via the second opening. This can be done, for example, using a printing process.
[0055] Furthermore, this second opening allows the label holder to be pushed out of the recess. This results in further handling advantages.
[0056] As a further development, this invention provides that the first and second openings are shaped identically, in particular, essentially congruently shaped and arranged. This makes it optionally possible to utilize the surface of the marking carrier facing the underside to its maximum extent, for example, and especially for applying a marking. Furthermore, this allows the marking carrier to be machined from both the top and the underside of the holding body. To further increase efficiency, the invention provides that the marking carrier, arranged in a receiving state within the recess, can be machined in such a way that only minimal travel distances are required to reach the individual positions on the marking carrier.
[0057] Furthermore, the invention advantageously provides that, for example and in particular for the application of a marking by a printing process, the relevant print head of the printing device can be brought close to the marking carrier.
[0058] The invention makes this possible in a surprisingly simple way by extending, in a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a surface formed on a top side of the marking carrier parallel to a surface formed on the top side of the holding body, in particular flush.
[0059] The invention takes into account that at least the surface formed on the top and / or bottom of the marking carrier is / are planar. Due to the planar shape of the respective surface, the application of a marking to the surface is simplified.
[0060] The same applies at least to the top of the holding body, which can advantageously also be planar, thus simplifying the printing or application of a marking at the holding points of the marking carrier.
[0061] Within the scope of the invention, it has proven advantageous that the holding body has a guide by means of which the holding body can be aligned in a simple manner on a reference body, such as a receiving device for the holding device.
[0062] It has proven advantageous that the holding body has at least one guide, in particular at least two guide webs arranged parallel to each other, for arranging the holding body on a receiving device.
[0063] The guide ribs can, for example, be arranged on the underside of the holding body. This makes it possible to position the holding body on a complementary guide of a receiving device, which can, for example, and in particular, be part of a device for processing or applying a marking to the marking carrier. This makes it possible to guide the holding body precisely and align it on the device.
[0064] The invention provides, for example, and in particular, that a guide is formed by two guide ribs arranged parallel to each other, enabling very precise guidance of the holding body. In order to further facilitate the handling of a holding device and, for example, and in particular, to automate machining processes, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the holding body has a mechanical code for identifying the holding body and / or the marking carrier(s) arranged thereon.
[0065] A mechanical coding can be formed in a simple way, for example, and in particular, by recesses as well as protrusions that can be detected by sensors.
[0066] For example, tactile sensors can be used for detection. It is also possible to use optical sensors to detect the encoding.
[0067] Mechanical coding makes it possible to check or record the orientation of the holding element. Furthermore, it allows for the identification of a holding element in such a way that its design, for example, can be determined. It also makes it possible to deduce the arrangement of the mounting positions where the identification carriers are located. Finally, it simplifies handling by defining the orientation of the holding element.
[0068] Within the scope of the invention, it is possible for a holding body to have one or a plurality of holding positions for the identification carrier. Furthermore, it is possible within the scope of the invention for the holding positions to be arranged at equal intervals from one another, for example in a matrix or in a row or column arrangement.
[0069] Notwithstanding the above, a marking carrier can be formed in various ways. The invention specifically considers that the marking carrier is shaped like a plate or in a plate-like form. Furthermore, a marking carrier can be made of various materials. The same applies to the holding body.
[0070] In the interest of sustainability, the invention also provides that the identification carrier is reusable, so that after the removal of the identification carrier(s), it is ready to receive other or further identification carriers and can be reused immediately without preparation or repair. This can be facilitated by a suitable choice of material that promotes or achieves a long service life. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the holding body of the holding device and / or the identification carrier are made of a polymer, in particular the same polymer, preferably a recyclable and / or polymer recyclate, and / or of a metal, in particular stainless steel and / or aluminum. The invention takes into account that the holding body and the identification carrier(s) can be made of different materials.Advantageously, at least the retaining element can be made of a polymer, which can be further enhanced by using a suitable material for its holding effect and subsequent use. Furthermore, polymers with high sustainability are available. For example, a polymer can be a recyclable polymer with excellent recyclability. It is also possible to use recycled polymers (polymer recyclate) to form the retaining element and / or the marking carrier.
[0071] Furthermore, it is possible that at least the marking carrier is made of a metal. This metal can be, for example, and especially a non-ferrous metal such as aluminum. Aluminum has the advantage of excellent recyclability and is also readily available. In addition, aluminum offers further advantages, such as low electrical conductivity, making it very suitable for corresponding applications.
[0072] Furthermore, this makes it possible to design a rigid marking carrier or holding body. This also increases stability. This is also possible with appropriately selected polymers.
[0073] Claim 15:
[0074] To simplify the removal of an identification carrier received in a recess, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides a feature characterized in that the holding body has at least one removal opening, in particular an engagement recess, for removing the identification carrier from the recess, which is arranged and designed in such a way that the identification carrier arranged in the recess in the receiving state can be grasped underneath and can be released from the recess by a movement in a direction away from the recess.
[0075] The recess should be designed as a finger groove, allowing a finger to grip underneath. This eliminates the need for tools to remove the label from the recess.
[0076] Optionally, the recess for gripping the label carrier can be accessed using a tool, such as a screwdriver or similar. This allows the recess to be designed with minimal space requirements, particularly less than a finger groove design. The invention also includes a device for processing label carriers, equipped with a holding device as previously described. The device is further equipped with a receiving element for receiving the holding element of the holding device. In addition, a detection element is provided for detecting the holding element of the holding device and / or the label carrier(s) attached to it.
[0077] Furthermore, the device includes a control unit that is signal- or data-connected to the detection device and processes the data provided by the detection device to control the device. Within the scope of the invention, the term "control" also includes "regulation".
[0078] The invention, through the use of the described holding device in a device for processing identification carriers, offers advantages in handling during processing. Furthermore, the invention enables the processing of the identification carrier to be automated.
[0079] The processing can be simplified in particular by capturing the mechanical codes through the detection devices and processing this data accordingly by a control device to control the device.
[0080] Particular attention is paid to the fact that the device has a printing device, in particular a laser marking device and / or a thermal transfer printing device, for applying a marking to the marking carrier.
[0081] Regardless of the device for processing marking carriers, the invention takes into account that a marking carrier in question is designed and configured for the application of a marking by means of a laser marking and / or printing process using ink or by means of a thermal transfer printing process. The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures, in which selected exemplary embodiments representing a multitude of variants of the invention are presented. The subject matter of the invention, namely a holding device and a device for processing marking carriers, is clarified by these figures.
[0082] The figures illustrate the relevant features of the invention, which, regardless of the embodiment according to the claims or the description in the introductory part of the text, can combine to form an object of the invention in a configuration other than that shown in the figures. All claimed, described, and illustrated features, considered individually or in any combination, constitute the object of the invention.
[0083] Therefore, the features are not bound to the constellation explained below, but can also characterize an object of the invention in isolation from one another as well as in a different combination or constellation.
[0084] The figures in the drawing illustrate the aforementioned embodiment of the invention using schematic representations. The representations in the figures are therefore not necessarily to scale, so that, among other things, the scales chosen in the figures may differ from one another.
[0085] For better clarity, the illustrations are reduced to the elements that support understanding.
[0086] In the figures, identical or corresponding components / parts or elements are provided with the same reference symbols.
[0087] For better clarity, not all elements / components / parts are always provided with reference symbols in the figures, whereby the assignment results from the same representation or a representation adapted to the view.
[0088] They show:
[0089] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a holding device in a schematic view of a top side of the holding device;
[0090] Fig. 2 shows the first embodiment of a holding device in a schematic view of a bottom side of the holding device; Fig. 3A shows the first embodiment of a holding device in a schematic view of a side of the holding device, in a side view direction marked by A in Fig. 1.
[0091] Fig. 3B shows the first embodiment of a holding device in a schematic sectional view of the holding device as characterized by AA in Fig. 1;
[0092] Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of a holding device in a schematic view of a top side of the holding body, analogous to the view chosen in Fig. 1;
[0093] Fig. 5 shows the second embodiment of a holding device in a schematic view of a bottom side of the holding body;
[0094] Fig. 6 shows the second embodiment of a holding device in a schematic view of one side of the holding device as characterized by S in Fig. 4;
[0095] Fig. 7 shows a third embodiment of a holding device in a schematic perspective view;
[0096] Fig. 8 shows a fourth embodiment of a holding device in a schematic view of a top side of the holding device, analogous to the view chosen in Fig. 1;
[0097] Fig. 9 shows an embodiment of a device for processing marking carriers with a holding device in a roughly schematic view.
[0098] The aforementioned components of the invention are also referred to, for short, as holding devices or devices. The representations of the components in the figures, particularly their differences, are explained below.
[0099] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a holding device 2 according to the invention for holding identification carriers 4. It has a holding body 6 on which a holding position 8 for holding the identification carrier 4 is provided and formed.
[0100] The holding device 2 has a marking carrier 4 limited by an outer edge 10.
[0101] Furthermore, the stopping position 8 has a recess 12 into which the marking carrier 4 is received in a receiving state, such that a recess edge 14 of the recess 12 forms a frame 16 for the marking carrier 4.
[0102] In this embodiment, the identification carrier 4 is arranged outside the holding body 6 or the recess 12, so that no receiving state is shown in Fig. 1. Furthermore, holding means 18 are provided which are designed to hold the identification carrier 4 to the holding body 6 in a force-fit manner, such that the identification carrier 4 can be removed from the holding position 8 without damage.
[0103] The retaining means 18 are provided to have an elastic spring leg 20 which, in the receiving state, exerts a spring force on the outer edge 10 of the marking carrier 4 arranged in the recess 12, such that, in conjunction with the recess edge 14, the marking carrier 4 is held clamped in the recess 12. The spring leg 20 is movably arranged on the retaining body 6 such that the latter can be deflected at least partially towards the recess 12, in particular such that, in a rest state in which it is unloaded, the spring leg 20 is deflected at least partially in direction 22 towards the recess 12, and, in a loaded state in which it rests against the outer edge 10 of the marking carrier 4 and exerts a spring force on the outer edge 10, it is deflected at least partially in an opposite direction 24 towards the recess 12. Figure 1 illustrates the aforementioned rest state.
[0104] As can be seen in Fig. 1, the spring leg 20 extends longitudinally between a first end 26 and a second end 28 and is connected to the holding body 6 by means of the first end 26 and the second end 28 in a material-bonded manner.
[0105] Furthermore, it is provided that the retaining body 6 has at least one second recess 30, spaced close to the recess edge 14, which in this embodiment is designed as a hole 30', and which is designed and arranged such that the spring leg 20 is formed by a section 32 of the retaining body 6 formed between the second recess 30, 30' and the recess edge 14. A section of the recess edge 14 is formed between the first end 26 and the second end 28 of the section 34 of the spring leg 20, with a side 36 facing the recess 12.
[0106] Furthermore, the spring leg 20 has a projection 38, in particular an arcuate one, on the side 36 facing the recess 12, which in the receiving state rests against the outer edge 10 of the marking carrier 4. The spring leg 20 is thus arcuate in shape, so that the arc 40, in the rest state illustrated in Fig. 1, projects convexly into the recess 12.
[0107] The recess 12 is formed between a top surface 42 and a bottom surface 44 of the holding body 6 and has a first opening 46 facing the top surface 42, designed such that the marking carrier 4 can be inserted into the recess 12 by means of the first opening 46. The recess 12 has a base 48 opposite the first opening 46, which limits the recess 12 towards the bottom surface 44 of the holding body 6. The base 48 thus forms a contact surface 50 for the marking carrier 4, allowing the marking carrier 4 to be placed against it in the receiving state, thereby limiting movement from the first opening 46 in the direction 49 of the base 48. Alternatively, a second opening for the recess 12 could also be formed in the base 48, which is not shown in Fig. 1.
[0108] In the recording state, a surface 54 formed on a top surface 52 of the marking carrier 4 extends parallel to and flush with a surface 56 formed on the top surface 42 of the holding body 6 (as illustrated in the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 7).
[0109] Figure 1 shows that the retaining body 6 has a mechanical coding 58 for identifying the retaining body 6 and the marking carriers 4 arranged thereon, which in this embodiment is formed by an arrangement of recesses 60, in this embodiment holes 60'. The recesses 60 are uniformly provided with the reference numeral 60 and the holes 60' with the reference numeral 60'. They do not necessarily have to be of the same shape to each other, but can also be of different shapes.
[0110] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the retaining body 6 has a plurality of removal openings 62 (uniformly provided with the reference numeral 62) for easy removal of the identification carriers 4 from the recesses 12, each of which is designed according to the type of engagement or
[0111] Finger recesses 62' (uniformly marked with reference numeral 62') are designed such that the marking carriers 4 can be grasped with a finger (not shown) or optionally with a tool (not shown) and thus released from the respective recess 12.
[0112] This makes it possible to press the marking carrier 4 against the respective spring leg 20 against the acting spring force, thereby distancing the marking carrier 4 from a section of the recess edge 14 against which the marking carrier 4 is pressed by the spring force, and finally releasing and removing it from the recess 12 via the first opening 46.
[0113] In this embodiment, the holding body 6 and the marking carriers 4 are formed from the same polymer, which is independent of the other features.
[0114] Fig. 2 shows the holding body 6 from its underside 44, so that it can be seen that the recess 12 for the marking carrier 4 on the underside 44 is limited by the aforementioned base 40. Fig. 3 illustrates that the holding body 6 has at least one guide 66, in particular at least two guide webs 68, 68' arranged parallel to each other, for arranging the holding body 6 on a receiving device (symbolically represented in Fig. 9).
[0115] Fig. 3 A shows a schematic side view of the holding body 6, the design of which includes a guide 66 by means of two guide webs 68,68' arranged parallel to each other, wherein in this embodiment a pair of guide webs 68,68' are arranged on the respective edge section 70,70' on two opposite sides 72,72' of the holding body 6 running parallel to each other.
[0116] Figure 3B shows a sectional view illustrating the design of one of the aforementioned engagement or finger recesses 62', which creates a depression 74 on the bottom 40 of the recess 12 to allow a grip on an identification carrier 4 held in the recess 12. The identification carrier 4 is positioned outside the holding body 6 in Figure 3.
[0117] Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of a holding device 2 in a schematic view of a top surface 42 of the holding body 6. The holding device 2 follows the design of the first embodiment. In contrast, several identification carriers 4 are arranged on it in a column and row arrangement, resulting in a matrix-like arrangement of the identification carriers 4 on the holding body 6.
[0118] The marking carriers 4, unlike those of the first embodiment, have a different outer contour 10', which is bounded by the outer edge 10, so that the marking carriers 4 are circular or round in shape. Furthermore, they have a hole 76 by means of which the marking carriers 4 can be attached to objects (not shown), such as hoses or cables, or fastened to an object via the hole 76 using a cable tie or similar device.
[0119] Fig. 5 shows the holding body 6 from its underside 44, which is designed similarly to that in Fig. 1.
[0120] Fig. 6 shows a side view of the holding body 6, illustrating the shaping of the guide 66 by one of the guide webs 68.
[0121] Fig. 7 shows a third embodiment of a holding device 2 with identification carriers 4 arranged thereon, all uniformly marked with the reference numeral 4. The identification carrier 4 shown protruding from the recess 12 relative to the other identification carriers 4 illustrates a sequence of steps, performed in the order of the markings X and Y used in Fig. 7, which serve to insert an identification carrier 4 into a corresponding recess 12. Removal, as previously explained, is carried out in the reverse order of steps X and Y.
[0122] Fig. 7 illustrates, using two marking carriers 4 inserted in respective recesses 12, that a surface 54 formed on a top surface 52 of the respective marking carrier 4 extends parallel to a surface 56 formed on the top surface 42 of the holding body 6, in particular flush. The two aforementioned marking carriers 4 are in a receiving state, which is thus illustrated in Fig. 7. Furthermore, a load state is also illustrated.
[0123] Fig. 8 shows a fourth embodiment of a holding device 2. This is similar to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1, except that, in addition to the first spring leg 20, a second spring leg 20', spaced apart from it, is arranged at the edge of the recess 14. The second spring leg 12' is bonded to the holding body 6 at its first end 26. Furthermore, the second end 28 forms a free end 28', which, in a rest state (illustrated in Fig. 8), is directed towards 22 of the recess 12 and projects into the recess 12. Under load, the free end 28' is displaced in a direction 24 towards the edge of the recess 14 and is brought close to it. Fig. 9 illustrates, in an abstracted form, an embodiment of a device 78 for processing identification carriers 4. This device has a holding device 2 for identification carriers 4, as designed according to the invention.Furthermore, the device 78 is equipped with a receiving device 80 for receiving the holding body 6 of the holding device 2.
[0124] Furthermore, a detection device 82 is provided for detecting the holding body 6 and / or the marking carriers 4 arranged on it.
[0125] A control device 84 is used to control the device 78. This device is connected to the detection device 82 via a data cable 86 for data communication and processes the data provided by the detection device 82 to control the device 78.
[0126] For applying a marking (not shown) to the respective marking carrier 2 (not visible due to the chosen view), the device 78 has a printing device 88, which in this embodiment is a laser marking device 88', so that the control device 84 controls the application of the marking according to the coding detected by the detection device 82 by means of a control connection 90, and exchanges data with the printing device 88 via the control connection 90.
[0127] The invention is not limited to the constellations used and described in the exemplary embodiments. The individual features can therefore be used in other combinations or constellations, independent of the described exemplary embodiments. This also applies to the embodiments described with reference to the exemplary embodiments, which are not bound to the respective exemplary embodiments but can also constitute and characterize an object of the invention independently. Accordingly, the features and described design and arrangement options are also generally applicable and can be used to create an object of the invention independently of the illustrated and described constellations. Reference numerals
[0128] 2 Holding device
[0129] 4 identification carriers
[0130] 6 retaining bodies
[0131] 8 stopping places
[0132] 10 Outer edge of the marking carrier 4.4'
[0133] 10' Outer contour of the marking carrier 4.4'
[0134] 12 Exclusion
[0135] 14 Exclusion edge
[0136] 16 Border
[0137] 18 Holding devices
[0138] 20, 20' spring leg
[0139] 22 Direction to the recess 12
[0140] 24 opposite direction to the recess 12
[0141] 26 first end of the spring leg 20
[0142] 28 second end of the spring leg 20
[0143] 28' free end of the spring leg 20
[0144] 30 second exception
[0145] 30' Hole
[0146] Section 32 on the formation of the spring leg 20
[0147] 34 section of the spring leg 20 between first end 26 and second end 28 36 to the recess 12 side of the spring leg 20
[0148] 38 Cantilever
[0149] 40 arcs of the feather leg 20
[0150] 42 Top of the holding body 6
[0151] 44 Underside of the holding body 6
[0152] 46 first opening of the recess 12
[0153] 48 Bottom of the recess 12
[0154] 49 Direction towards the ground
[0155] 50 Plant area (formed by the ground 48)
[0156] 52 Top side of the label holder 4
[0157] 54 Surface (formed on the top 52 of the marking carrier 4)
[0158] 56 Surface (formed on the top 42 of the holding body 6)
[0159] 58 Coding
[0160] 60 exceptions to the coding 58
[0161] 60 holes
[0162] 62 Extraction opening
[0163] 62' Recess / Finger recess
[0164] 66 Leadership
[0165] 68.68' Guide bridges of the guide 66
[0166] 70.70' Edge sections
[0167] 72.72' opposite sides
[0168] 74 Recess at the bottom 40 of the recess 12
[0169] 76 holes of the identification carrier 4
[0170] 78 Device 80 Receiving device
[0171] 82 Recording device
[0172] 84 Control unit
[0173] 86 data cables
[0174] 88 Printing device
[0175] 88' Laser marking device
[0176] 90 Control connection
[0177] X Step to move the marking carrier 4 Y Step to move the marking carrier 4
Claims
Patent claims 1. Holding device (2) for holding identification carriers (4), with a holding body (6) on which at least one holding position (8) for holding a marking carrier (4) is provided and designed, with at least one marking carrier (4) bounded by an outer edge (10), wherein the holding place (8) has at least one recess (12) into which the marking carrier (4) is releasably received in a receiving state, such that a recess edge (10) of the recess (12) forms a frame for the marking carrier (4), characterized by Holding means (18) which are designed to hold the marking carrier (4) securely on the holding body (6) in such a way that the marking carrier (4) can be removed from the holding place (8) without damage.
2. Holding device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding means (18) have at least one elastic spring leg (20,20') which, in the receiving state, presses with a spring force onto the outer edge (10) of the marking carrier (4) arranged in the recess (12).
3. Holding device (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that the spring leg (20, 20') is arranged on the holding body (6) such that the spring leg (20, 20') can be deflected at least section by section towards the recess (12), such that the spring leg (20, 20') is deflected at least section by section in a rest state in which it is unloaded, in the direction of the recess (12) and in a load state in which it rests against the outer edge (10) of the marking carrier (4) and exerts a clamping force on the outer edge (10), is deflected at least section by section in a direction opposite (22) to the recess (12).
4. Holding device (2) according to one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that the spring leg (20, 20') extends longitudinally between a first end (26) and a second end (28, 28') and is connected to the holding body (6) by means of the first and / or the second end (26, 28, 28') in a materially bonded manner.
5. Holding device (2) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the holding body (6) has at least one second recess (30), in particular a hole (30'), spaced close to the edge of the recess, which is designed and arranged such that the spring leg (20, 20') is formed by a section (32) of the holding body (6) formed between the second recess (30) and the edge of the recess (14).
6. Holding device (2) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that one of the ends (26, 28, 28') is directed towards 22 of the recess (12).
7. Holding device (2) according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the section (32,34) of the spring leg (20,20') formed between the first end (26) and the second end (28,28') forms a section of the recess edge (14) with a side (36) facing the recess (12).
8. Holding device (2) according to one of claim 7, characterized in that the spring leg (20,20') has a projection (38) on the side (36) facing the recess (14), in particular a bottom-shaped projection, which in the receiving state rests against the outer edge (10) of the marking carrier (4).
9. Holding device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess (12) is formed between a top (42) and a bottom (44) and the recess (12) has at least one first opening (46) directed towards the top (42) of the recess (12).
10. Holding device (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that the recess (12) has at least one second opening directed towards the underside (44), wherein in particular the first opening (46) and the second opening are shaped identically, in particular substantially congruently shaped and arranged.
11. Holding device (2) according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that a surface (54) formed on a top side (52) of the marking carrier (4) extends parallel to a surface (56) formed on the top side (42) of the holding body (6), in particular flush.
12. Holding device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding body (6) has at least one guide (66), in particular at least two guide webs (68, 68') arranged parallel to each other, for arranging the holding body (6) on a receiving device (80).
13. Holding device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding body (6) has a mechanical coding (58) for identifying the holding body (6) and / or the marking carrier(s) (4) arranged thereon.
14. Holding device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding body (6) and / or the marking carrier (4) is formed from a polymer, in particular the same polymer, preferably a recyclable and / or polymer recyclate, and / or from a metal, in particular a stainless steel or / or aluminium.
15. Holding device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding body (6) has at least one removal opening (62), in particular an engagement recess (62'), for removing the marking carrier (4) from the recess (12), which is designed such that the marking carrier (4) arranged in the recess (12) in the receiving state can be grasped underneath and can be released from the recess (12) by a movement in a direction (24) away from the recess (12).
16. Device (78) for processing marking carriers (4) comprising a holding device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a receiving device (80) for receiving the holding body (6) of the holding device (2), and comprising a detection device (82) for detecting the holding body (6) and / or the marking carriers (4) arranged thereon, and a control device (84) which is data-connected to the detection device (82) and processes the data provided by the detection device (82) for controlling the device (78), which in particular comprises a printing device (88), in particular a laser marking device (88) and / or a thermal transfer printing device, for applying a marking to the marking carriers (4).