DE102015102671A1 - Mechanical connection for panels and the method of mounting a locking spring in a panel - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a mechanical connection for panels having a connecting spring 19a having a locking body 20 adapted to be displaced from a release position to a locking position to engage behind the locking edge in the locking position. The locking spring 19a has a slider which is displaceable in the longitudinal direction L of the retaining groove and is guided on a groove bottom of the retaining groove. The locking body 20 is supported with a spring force F on the slider 25, which acts transversely to the longitudinal direction L of the retaining groove. There are 20 effective latching means 41 for a mutual, releasable connection disposed between the slider 25 and the locking body, which hold the locking body 20 in releasable latching engagement with the slider 25 in an inner, biased position. The blocking body 20 is under the influence of acting in the longitudinal direction L of the holding on the slider 25 and the slider 25 in the longitudinal direction L releasing release force A released from the locking engagement, so that the locking body 20 partially under the influence of the spring force F out of the retaining out in the locking position is displaceable.

Description

The invention relates to a mechanical connection for panels, a method for producing this connection and a method for mounting a locking spring in a panel.

Panels are plate-shaped components, in particular for shuttering of ceiling, wall or floor surfaces. Panels for floor coverings, in particular engineered parquet, real wood floors or laminate floors consist of several rows of predominantly rectangular floor panels in their configuration. Conventionally, the floor panels on one longitudinal side and one head side have continuous grooves and on the respective opposite longitudinal side or head side continuous springs, which are adapted to the grooves form-fitting manner. Through the connection of tongue and groove the floor panels are laid. On the grooves and springs mechanical locking means are formed, which engage with each other in a floor covering adjacent floor panels in latching engagement.

This is to avoid formation of joints in the laid floor covering by stretching or shrinking operations. At tongue and groove of the floor panels are adapted to each other locking elements in the form of depressions, recesses or projections to hold bonded floor panels in the assembled position glueless. The panels are thereby hooked together in the horizontal direction and vertical direction.

As a rule, floor panels to be laid are rotated or clicked along their longitudinal sides into a longitudinal side of a laid-out row of panels and are subsequently displaced laterally so that the head sides of the new panel rows abut one another. There can be a horizontal impact, but also angling to hook the head sides together. The head-side locking in the vertical direction can be done for example via a locking spring, which is pressed back when lowering the second panel relative to the already laid, first panel resiliently in the holding and then jumps out of the groove again and thereby locks the two sides of the head. There are so-called side-push systems known ( DE 10 2006 037 614 B3 ), in which the head-side locking is done by applying another row of panels.

In the solutions in which the locking spring must be actively pressed back into the retaining groove, the locking spring is originally in the relaxed state, is then stretched when pushing back and springs back when locking, similar to a snap connection. In contrast to the side-push systems, it is not necessary to create another row of panels for locking. In contrast, the so-called side-push systems have the advantage that the placement or bending of the second panels in the region of the head sides to be connected without overcoming the spring force is possible. However, it must be ensured that locking takes place through the next row of panels or by manual operation of the locking spring.

The invention has for its object to provide a mechanical connection for panels, which makes a longitudinal locking of the panels without overcoming the spring force of a locking spring possible and at the same time allows secure locking of the panels, even if no further row of panels is created. Furthermore, a method for mounting such a locking spring in a panel for producing the desired mechanical connection will be shown and a corresponding connection method.

The invention achieves the object by a mechanical connection with the features of patent claim 1 or by a method for mounting a locking spring according to the features of patent claim 18. Methods for connecting panels with such mechanical connections are the subject matter of patent claims 19 and 20.

The mechanical connection for panels provides that the panels have at their sides to be joined together a profiling, via which adjacent first and second panels are locked together in the mounting position. The term "panel" within the meaning of the invention is representative of plate-shaped elements, in particular for shuttering of wall, ceiling or floor surfaces.

A mechanical connection means that the connection is not cohesive, that is in particular free of adhesives, in particular free of glue.

However, the invention does not exclude that the mechanical connection can be additionally reinforced by a material connection and the use of an adhesive.

Where terms such as "top", "bottom", "vertical", "horizontal" or similar spatial information are used, they are each related to a horizontal laying level, as with panels for a floor covering. The principle of the mechanical connection is also transferable to other spatial positions of the laying level.

The invention relates in particular to the mutual, vertically acting fixing of the narrower head sides of rectangular panels, which are provided with their longer longitudinal sides with a glue-free tongue and groove connection.

To produce a substantially vertically acting locking a locking spring on the first panel is inserted into a retaining groove. When locking, the locking spring is partially displaceable behind a locking edge of an adjacent panel. The locking edge may be part of a locking groove of the second panel to be locked to the first panel.

For locking the locking spring has a locking body. It is displaceable from a release position to a locking position to engage in the locking position behind a locking edge. The locking body bridges a vertical parting plane between the first and second panels.

The locking body is the component which is in contact with the first and the second panel in the locking position. In addition to the locking body, the locking spring has a slider. The slider is displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove. He is guided on a groove bottom of the retaining groove. The slider itself is not intended to come into contact with the second panel. It remains exclusively in the retaining groove and is located away from the mouth of the retaining groove, at the bottom of the groove. It is therefore guided directly from the groove bottom of the retaining groove. The slider has the function of holding and releasing the lock body.

So that the locking body can emerge from the retaining groove, it is supported by a spring force on the slider. The spring force acts transversely to the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove. In an inner, biased position of the locking body, in which he does not project in particular beyond the mouth of the retaining, the locking body is in releasable locking engagement with the slider. For this purpose, latching means are arranged on the slide and the locking body, which are in contact with each other for the latching engagement. The so-called inner prestressed position of the blocking body may also mean that the blocking body protrudes only slightly beyond the retaining groove, but only so far that the depositing or bending of a second panel with respect to the first panel does not lead to contact with the blocking body. That is, the second panel may be engaged with the first panel without the resistance of the barrier body.

The inner, biased position is also characterized in that the locking body has been brought against the spring force in a position in which he remains forcibly. For this latching engagement, the blocking body can be released under the influence of a release force acting on the slider in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove and displacing the slider in the longitudinal direction. By releasing the latching engagement, the blocking body is partially displaceable out of the retaining groove into the locking position under the influence of the spring force. This release force, which leads to the displacement of the slide, displaced together with the slide, the locking means on the slide. By this longitudinal displacement of the latching means of the slider, the associated locking means are released on the locking body.

The release force, which is required to move the slider, can be applied via a side-push system. For side-push systems, the locking spring is pressed into the groove with its protruding end. The projecting end or the actuating portion is located in the invention not on the locking body, but on the slide.

The mechanical connection has the advantage that a second panel with a vertical lowering or Abschwenkbewegung without the resistance of a locking spring on the first panel can be brought into the mounting position. The locking spring does not snap in immediately when the second panel is removed, but must first be actively activated before a vertical locking occurs. This allows the panel to be recorded again before applying another row to make any corrections. Only when the fitter is sure that the panels are to be locked, the lock can be done manually by deliberately applying a triggering force on the slide or simply by applying another row of panels. In both cases, the end over the retaining groove projecting end of the locking spring is pushed into the retaining groove. The displacement or actuation travel may be 0.1 mm-4.0 mm and preferably 1.5 mm-2.5 mm. The actuation travel required to actuate the lock spring is greater than or equal to the distance that the lock spring extends transversely out of the retention groove when locked.

Thus, the locking spring extends uniformly over its entire length, preferably a plurality of spring means arranged at a distance from each other are provided. The spring means are preferably arranged distributed uniformly over the length of the locking spring.

Since in the invention, not the locking body, but the slider is displaced in the longitudinal direction, means for blocking the longitudinal movement of the locking body are provided in the retaining groove. In particular, the locking spring has at one end a support block held in the retaining groove. This can be used to support the locking body against displacements in the longitudinal direction of the retaining. The support block can be held in the retaining groove via projections which face an upper and / or lower groove cheek of the retaining groove.

The locking body is in particular designed so that in its operative engagement with the support block, its displacement from the retaining groove takes place exclusively perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove. For this purpose, the locking body may have an end face, with which it rests in the inner biased position on a support surface of the support block, wherein the end face and / or the support surface are coordinated so that the direction of movement of the locking body when moving into its locking position perpendicular to the longitudinal direction the retaining groove is. In particular, the end face and the support surface are surfaces which are each perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove. The locking body rests, in particular in the prestressed, inner position, directly against the support surface, so that no play in the longitudinal direction has to be overcome for triggering the blocking body. The blocking body is therefore preferably not displaced in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove. Rather, a transverse displacement of the locking body relative to the support block is achieved directly, so that the locking means can be decoupled even at very low displacement movements in the longitudinal direction, but at the same time relatively large displacement paths of the locking body are achieved transversely to the retaining.

The locking means comprise hook connections, which are releasable by displacing the slider in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove. The invention does not exclude that the latching connection can also be non-positively (clamping connection) or cohesively, for example in the form of an adhesive bond. Hook connections, however, have proved to be particularly suitable and can be implemented more easily in terms of manufacturing technology. The hook connection should be released by a translatory movement of the slider. For this purpose, mutual undercuts to the locking means are required. The undercuts on the latching means or the hook connections remain in mutual engagement as long as the spring force, which acts between the locking body and the slider, the contact surfaces of the hook connection pressed against each other.

It can engage in each locking means also several undercuts, so that there are several individual hook connections in each locking means. Several individual holding connections can both mean that a plurality of hook connections spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction of the holding groove are provided for each latching means. Likewise, a plurality of individual hook connections in the transverse direction to the holding element may be spaced from each other, such. B. in a zig-zag or wave profile. Combinations of hook connections with distance in the longitudinal direction and distance in the transverse direction to the retaining groove are not possible. The hook connections can also be formed as corrugations. Preferably, the corrugations extend as elevations and depressions in each case in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove. This has the advantage that when longitudinally sliding the slider, the interlocked corrugations can be easily separated from each other.

The latching means of the slide are preferably formed as the locking body and away from the groove base facing locking tongues. These locking tongues are provided on at least one of the groove walls of the retaining side facing with a hook connection. The locking tongues have undercuts to form the hook connection. Theoretically, the locking tongue can be formed as a male part, which engages in a counter-trained, serving as a female part locking means on the locking body, comparable to a bayonet connection.

However, such a latching tongue is advantageous only provided on one side with a hook connection. The same applies to the locking means on the locking body.

The locking tongues are dimensioned so large in terms of the size of the hook connection or in terms of the size of the elevations and depressions that the locking means not even under the load of the spring force transversely to the longitudinal direction of the retaining, d. H. can not slide up or down, from each other, but only in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove. The tolerances of the retaining groove are accordingly matched to the thickness of the formed as a flat component locking spring. In the inner biased position, the locking means have the tendency up and down, that is, slide off each other in the vertical direction of the retaining groove depending on the orientation of the contact surfaces of the undercuts. At the same time, however, this leads to a centering of the locking spring in the retaining groove and to a reliable guidance of the slide not only on the groove base, but also on at least one groove cheek.

The hook connections are in principle designed so that they can only be separated from each other by mutual displacement in the longitudinal direction. However, the invention includes the Possibility that the hook connection can be engaged by displacement only in the transverse direction with each other.

At least one hook connection can be bevelled on its front side facing away from the undercut, which faces the respective other hook connection. Preferably, both hook connections are chamfered. These bevels, which may also be referred to as chamfers, sliding surfaces or inclined surfaces, are intended to allow the corresponding hook connections to slide against each other in order to bring them into engagement with each other by a pure transverse displacement. The corresponding hook connections slide on each other and snap in immediately when the highest point of increase in a hook connection has been exceeded. This snap-in movement is supported by the fact that the locking spring is preferably a plastic component. The plastic is limited deformable. In addition, there are certain tolerances within the retaining groove, which can be exploited in the pure transverse assembly. The material of the panels is limited yielding. If the undercuts are also parallel to the groove base or perpendicular to the groove flanks, the interlocking locking means have by themselves no tendency to slide up or down from each other, so that a secure locking both during storage and during transport of the prefabricated panels is ensured safely and continuously with inserted locking spring. The unlocking is possible only by moving in the longitudinal direction.

Another advantage is that due to the inclined surfaces on the hook connections of the locking body in the unlocked position deeper into the retaining groove is displaced without coming over the locking means in latching engagement. This is an advantage in the case when the locking spring has been unintentionally unlocked and the locking body is to be moved back into the retaining groove again without locking with the slide again.

Advantageously, the locking body is supported by resilient arms on the slider. The arms are preferably located on the locking body itself. In order to keep the contact area and thus the friction surface between the arms of the locking body and the slide so low, the arms are preferably in point or line contact with the slider. Preferably, the support takes place over the free ends of the arms.

On the slide projecting brackets can be arranged, on which the resilient arms are supported. The brackets may additionally be inclined to assist in the relaxation of the arms, the transverse displacement of the locking body, namely, when the end of an arm performs a relative movement to the locking body. The relative movement of the arm results from a pivotal movement of the arm about its fixed to the locking body end. In addition, when longitudinally displacing the slider, a wedge surface of the bracket disposed on the slider, which is in contact with the free end of the arm, can be pushed under the arm, so that the transverse displacement is further increased.

So that the blocking body does not shift in the longitudinal direction, it can be provided as an alternative to a supporting body at the end of the retaining groove or at the end of the locking spring, that a clamping projection for engagement with a groove wall is arranged on the locking body and in particular on at least one arm. The free end of an arm is that part of the locking body which is not or at least least displaced transversely to the retaining groove. Therefore, such a clamping projection is preferably arranged at the free end of one or more arms. The clamping projection serves or the clamping projections serve to define pivot points about which the individual arms can be pivoted with the locking body arranged thereon. This eliminates an end-side support block on the locking spring.

If no pivotal movement of the locking body is desired, but a possible linear movement, it is advantageous if the resilient arms have with their free ends in opposite directions and the locking body is simultaneously supported on a support block which supports a displacement perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the retaining , The resilient arms, which are the same length and point in opposite directions, cause no displacement in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove, but only a displacement transversely to the longitudinal direction.

The locking means of the locking body can be arranged between the free ends of the arms. Alternatively or additionally, further locking means of the locking body between the fixed ends of the locking arms may be arranged. Preferably, detent means are located both in the vicinity of the free ends and in the vicinity of the fixed ends of the arms.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, guides for the latching means of the slide are formed adjacent to the hook connections of the blocking body. The guides can serve in particular as insertion aids for the hook connections and in particular for corrugations. A latching tongue on the slide can be formed, for example, in a pocket open to the groove cheek Guide be used, wherein adjacent to the guide, the corrugation or hook connection begins. In this way, the joining of the locking means is substantially simplified.

In one embodiment of the invention, at least one return spring is effective between the slide and the support block. The return spring is designed to exert a restoring force in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove on the slider. It is advantageous if the slider always assumes a defined position. In the inner, prestressed state, the slider should not be released automatically from the locking body. It is therefore advantageous if the restoring force acts in the same direction in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove, in which the locking means can be brought into engagement. The latching of the slider and the locking body is therefore preferably carried out by a movement of the slider, which is directed away from the support block. The return spring supports this movement.

The return spring may be arranged at a distance from the slider. It is intended to come into contact with the slider after a minimum displacement of the slider. Since when unlocking the slide must be moved in the direction of the support block, the restoring force of the unlocking force would permanently counteract. This is undesirable when unlocking. Therefore, the return spring may be arranged at a certain distance from the locking body, which is so large that the restoring force is not superimposed with the initial static friction forces, but is effective shortly before unlocking as a counterforce. At this moment, however, only sliding friction forces counteract the direction of movement of the slider, which are less than static friction forces, so that the locking spring can be relatively easily and uniformly unlocked over its entire sliding path. Nevertheless, the restoring force of the return spring helps to avoid unwanted unlocking.

The slider, the at least one return spring and the support block can be integrally formed in one piece and in particular of the same material. This production method is particularly cost effective in injection molded parts. The integrated material of uniform design also has the advantage that a film hinge between the slide and the support block can serve as a first return spring. The film hinge brings a very low restoring force. A second return spring at a distance from the slide can be set specifically to the desired restoring force.

Since the locking spring is used at the factory and should also be biased, it is advantageous if the locking body is arranged in a predetermined position relative to the slider, so that it only has to be pressed in the installed position against the slide to lock slider and locking body together. In this mutual approach preferably predetermined breaking points between the locking body and the slide are destroyed and the original one-piece connection is replaced by a positive connection of the locking means. This positive connection allows the inner, biased position of the locking spring. The bias of the locking spring results from the spring force, in particular by the arms, which are bent when approaching the locking body to the slide and thereby tensioned. After the first engagement of the locking means, the predetermined breaking points are destroyed and from the originally one-piece locking spring has become a multipart locking spring. However, the locking spring can be manually re-tension even after the first time unlocking the locking means by the locking body is pushed back into the retaining and is locked with the slide.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention has a longitudinal side protruding from the retaining part of the locking body in the transition from its top to its front side an inclined sliding surface. About the sliding surface of the locking body can be shifted back into the holding groove when laying down vertical or bending the adjacent panel, without being latched on the locking means. When the mounting position has been reached, the locking body is automatically pushed back behind the locking edge under the influence of the spring force. Accordingly, in the event of inadvertent release, the locking spring behaves like a compliant locking spring capable of locking together without pressure being applied to one end, that is, without side-pushing the slider adjacent panels.

Basically, however, provided to produce the locking spring, the locking spring as a uniform material component one-piece and insert it into a retaining groove of the panel and to bring it into the prestressed, inner position. For this purpose, the slider is displaced in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove, then pressed the locking body to the slider and then the slide back again displaced in the longitudinal direction, to bring the slider and the locking body in latching engagement. Conversely, the mechanical connection of two panels is procedurally made by laying a first panel and then placing a second panel with a vertical lowering or swinging edge on the first panel while the locking spring is in the biased release position on the first panel located. The latching connection between the locking body and the slide is achieved by acting in the longitudinal direction of the holding and the slider displacing release force. The locking body is then displaced under the influence of the spring force in the locking position.

If the locking position has been reached without a second panel has been applied, the panel can slide on the protruding part of the locking body and pressed against the spring force in the retaining without the locking means engage with each other and the locking body in the interior , prestressed position remains. He jumps back independently under the influence of the spring force in the locking position.

The locking spring may be formed as a flat component, so that the retaining groove can be made very narrow. As a result, the mechanical connection according to the invention can also be used with panels of small thickness. In addition, the cost of materials for the locking spring is low.

The mechanical connection according to the invention provides, in particular, an automatic locking by pushing back or by the side-push principle, that is, by applying a further row of panels. The mechanical connection can also be made manually. After laying a row of panels can be pressed by hand on the end of the slider of the locking spring to unlock the slider from the locking body.

The inventive concept is particularly applicable to all floor systems in which a floor covering is arranged on a support, such as real wood coverings, laminate, support with painted surfaces as top covering, linoleum, cork on support plates, etc. The material for the locking spring can be both a wood material, that is, it may be wood or a material containing wood fibers. It may in particular be a composite material. The locking spring may be made of metal or a metal alloy. The use of bimetallic or mixed plastics is just as possible as the use of materials based on thermoplastic or thermosetting plastics. The locking spring may in particular consist of a fiber-reinforced plastic with a fiber content of 20% to 60%. The locking spring consists in particular of polyamide. The plastics are in particular glass fiber reinforced. The locking spring can be made of the same material-integral. It is also conceivable to produce parts of the locking spring from divergent materials, wherein the locking spring, despite the different materials but a total of an originally one-piece component, which is the factory-mounted mounting of the locking spring, destroying the predetermined breaking connections to a two-part component.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to embodiments schematically illustrated in the drawings. Show it:

1 in plan view, a section of a floor covering;

2 a vertical section through the head portion of two mutually engaging panels along the line II-II in 1 ;

3 a plan view of a locking spring with intact predetermined breaking points;

4 the locking spring of the 3 in an end view in the direction of the arrow IV;

5 an enlarged section V of the locking spring of 3 ;

6 a section through the locking spring of 5 along the line VI-VI;

7 the cross section of a locking spring with locking means disengaged;

8th Locking means of the locking spring of 7 in mutual engagement;

9 the locking spring of the 3 in a perspective view from below;

10 the locking spring of the 3 in a perspective view from above;

11 the locking spring of the 3 in a perspective view from above with injection molding approaches;

12 a further embodiment of a locking spring in a plan view;

13 in an enlarged view the left in the image plane end of the locking spring of 12 ;

14 a perspective view of a latching tongue of the locking spring of 13 ;

15 a section through the locking spring of 13 along the line XV-XV;

16 the locking means of 15 engaged;

17a to e an end portion of another embodiment of a locking spring in plan view;

18a and b sectional views through the locking spring according to the lines XVIIIa-XVIIIa and XVIIIb-XVIIIb in 17 ;

19a to d the end portion of another embodiment of a locking spring in plan view;

20a to e the end portion of another embodiment of a locking spring;

21a to d the end portion of another embodiment of a locking spring in plan view;

22a to e a plan view of a further embodiment of the locking spring;

23a and b in an enlarged view the left end portion of the locking springs according to 22 ;

24a to c in an enlarged view in the right end region of the locking spring of 22 and

25a to c in plan view another embodiment of a spring.

1 shows a floor covering consisting of a variety of laid in the composite rectangular panels 1 . 2 , The panels 1 . 2 are all identical and are only marked differently for differentiation. The panels 1 . 2 show at their head sides 3 . 4 Locking bars on. Likewise, on their longer sides 5 . 6 provided corresponding locking strips. The locking strips arrive in the mounting position with adjacent panels in a covering 1 . 2 engaged with each other. This intervention serves to lock the panels 1 . 2 in horizontal direction.

In 2 are locking strips 7 . 8th to recognize that are interlocked for horizontal locking. The locking strips 7 . 8th are on each panel 1 . 2 educated. The left panel in the picture plane 1 is the first panel because it is relocated first. The right-hand panel in the picture plane 2 is the second panel because it will be relocated later. Accordingly, the first panel has 1 a first locking bar 7 on his head 4 , The second panel 2 has a locking strip 8th on his head 3 , The first locking bar 7 is on the bottom side of the panel 1 arranged and jumps over the head side 3 in front. The bottom 9 of the first panel 1 is at the same time the underside of the first locking strip 7 ,

The first locking bar 7 has an upwardly open first dome channel 10 on, at the end an upward, that is, from the bottom 9 away dome bulge 11 followed. The dome bulge 11 forms an undercut in the horizontal direction. He reaches into a second coupling groove 12 of the second panel 2 , The second coupling groove 12 is down, that is to the bottom 9 open. The second coupling groove 12 is through a second dome bulge 13 limited. The second dome bulge 13 fits in the installation position from above into the first coupling groove 12 one. This creates a hook connection in the horizontal direction. In this case, contact the mutually facing and inclined in the same direction flanks 14 . 15 at the first dome bulge 11 and second dome bulge 13 , The flanks 14 . 15 are at an angle W1 to each other, which is smaller than 90 ° relative to the bottom 9 the panels 1 . 2 , As a result, when lowering the second panel two opposite the first panel, the head sides 3 . 4 pressed against each other, leaving the transition in the joint area of the two panels 1 . 2 in the cover layer is virtually seamless.

The second panel 2 lies on a locking projection 16 of the first panel 1 on. The locking projection 16 extends horizontally and a short distance to a top 17 the panels 1 . 2 , One from the top of the second panel 2 acting force is thereby directly in the first panel 1 initiated. At the locking projection 16 , the opposite of the head 4 of the first panel 1 in the direction of the second panel 2 protrudes, but closes downwards but above the first locking bar 7 a holding groove 18 at. The holding groove 18 is to the head side 4 open. It is opposite the horizontal, that is, with respect to the laying level or bottom 9 not arranged in parallel in this embodiment, but arranged at an angle W2. The angle W2 is 3 ° to 7 °, in particular 5 °.

In the holding groove 1 there is a locking spring 19a , The locking spring 19a is in the section plane shown in several parts. The locking spring 19a has a blocking body 20 in the illustrated position of a mouth region of the retaining groove 18 protrudes and behind a locking edge 21 of the adjacent second panel 2 summarizes. The locking edge 21 is the lower mouth area of a locking groove 22 that is between the second dome bulge 13 and a supporting projection 23 located. The support projection 23 lies in the installation position on the locking projection 16 of the first panel 1 on. The support projection 23 but can also be part of an upper groove cheek the locking groove 22 be.

The locking spring 19a owns next to the blocking body 20 a slider 25 , the bottom of the groove 26 the holding groove 18 is arranged. The slider 25 is that part of the locking spring 19a , the deepest in the holding groove 18 is arranged. The slider 25 therefore supports itself directly on the bottom of the groove 26 the holding groove 18 from. The locking spring 19a extends from the upper groove cheek 28 up to a lower groove cheek 27 and therefore becomes simultaneously through the groove cheeks 27 . 28 led with little play. Also the blocking body 20 will be within the holding groove 18 guided. The slider 25 is in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove 18 displaceable, that is in the sectional plane of the 2 into the picture plane. Transverse to the retaining groove 18 means in the context of the invention, a movement perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove 18 leads out, thus a movement of the groove bottom 26 away, towards the slot mouth of the retaining groove 18 or in the direction of the locking groove 22 ,

2 shows that one out of the holding groove 18 longitudinally projecting part of the locking body 20 in the transition from its top 29 to his from the groove bottom 26 groundbreaking front page 30 an inclined sliding surface 31 , The sliding surface 31 can also be referred to as oversized bevel. About this sliding surface 31 or chamfer it is possible the locking body 20 when laying down the second panel vertically 2 relative to the first panel 1 in the holding groove 18 zurückzuverlagern. This slides the sliding surface 31 at a control edge 32 of the second panel 2 from. The control edge 32 is located at the end of the second dome bulge 13 in the transition area to the locking edge 21 below the locking groove 22 , The control edge 32 is preferably rounded and in particular convex.

If the second panel 2 lowered so far is that the support projection 23 of the second panel on the locking projection 16 the first panel rests, the locking body 20 by a spring force of an arm 24 as he is in 3 can be seen behind the locking edge 21 of the second panel 2 pressed. As a result, the lock body bridges 20 a gap between the retaining groove 18 and the locking groove 22 , The second panel 2 can not be moved in the vertical direction now. It is both horizontal and vertical with the first panel 1 locked. The exact operation of the locking spring 19a and the locking operation will be explained with reference to the following figures.

3 shows the locking spring 19a in the plan view. The locking spring 19a is a long, flat component ( 4 ). It includes the locking body 20 with the arms arranged in it 24 , each pointing in opposite directions. The locking body 20 measured in the longitudinal direction L is slightly shorter than the slider 25 , All arms 24 are evenly configured. In this embodiment has the locking spring 19a z. B. nine arms.

The locking spring 19a consists of plastic, in particular of glass fiber reinforced polyamide. It is constructed of the same material as one piece. It extends essentially over the entire length of a head side 3 . 4 ,

At the left in the image plane end of the locking spring 19a is a thickened end of operation 33 on the slider 25 educated. The end of the operation 33 serves to apply a compressive force on the slider 25 in the direction of the arrow A drawn. In this direction, a triggering force A is to be exerted to the slider, with the locking body 20 can be locked from the lock body 20 to solve and thereby the locking body 20 to move from a biased position to a locking position. This is the end of the operation 33 in the installation position a small piece from the end of the retaining groove 18 that is in the direction of the long side 6 of the panel 1 ( 1 ) and the groove bottom of the local longitudinal Kuppelnut ago. In the locked position is the locking spring 19a completely inside the holding groove 18 and preferably closes flush with the groove bottom of the coupling groove on the longitudinal side 6 from. He stands neither in the inner, biased position, nor in the locking position on a long-side decorative edge of the top of the panel 1 or the latching projection 16 ( 2 ) in front. The end of the operation 33 is 0.1 mm-4.0 mm, preferably 1.5 mm-2.5 mm with respect to the groove bottom of the coupling groove on the longitudinal side 6 in front. The actuation travel is greater than or equal to the distance to which the lock spring 19 when locking transversely to the retaining groove 18 extending. By creating another panel 1 . 2 in the area of the long sides 6 the first and second panels 1 . 2 can the end of the operation 33 in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove 18 be relocated. The release force A can also be a direct manual pressure on the operating end 33 be.

3 shows the locking spring 19a , which together with other identical locking springs 19a can be arranged in a tray. A tray is an injection-molded arrangement of several identical locking springs, the molded-on holder 36a . 36b connectable to each other ( 11 ). Based on 11 It can be seen that the left in the image plane arranged holder 36a . 36b itself has a tongue and groove coupling to the locking spring 19a or the holder 36a with other identical locking springs 19a to pair. The said holders 36a . 36b be after inserting the locking spring 19a in the holding groove 18 away. In this state, the locking springs 19a but still in one piece ( 3 ). Based on enlarged view of the 5 that a section of the 3 shows, it can be seen that the slider 25 in the initial state at a distance from the locking body 20 located. The locking body 20 is over several predetermined breaking points 35 with the slider 25 connected. The predetermined breaking points 35 are narrow webs that are in the range of free ends 34 the poor 24 are arranged. This is the locking body 20 captive on the slide 25 held. The poor 24 are substantially straight in this embodiment, bridging a gap 38 between the slider 25 and the lock body 20 , The gap 38 is additionally only by the predetermined breaking points 35 bridged. The gap 38 is in the area of the free ends 34 the poor 24 a bit bigger because of pockets 37 on the gap 38 facing side of the slide 25 thickened ends 34 the poor 24 to record.

The locking body 20 should not initially from the retaining groove 18 protrude. Therefore, the locking spring 19a deep into the holding groove 18 pressed. It becomes a force on the blocking body 20 in the direction of the slider 25 exercised. The arrow S represents the direction of the clamping force for inserting the locking spring 19a Contrary to the clamping force S acts a spring force F, by elastic deformation of the arms 24 is applied in the inner biased position. The poor 24 are with their second ends 39 firmly with the locking body 20 connected. The externally applied tension force S makes the arms 24 elastically deformed. When extending the locking body 20 push the arms 24 the slider 25 with his back 40 against the groove bottom 26 ( 2 ). When first approaching the arms 24 or the blocking body 20 to the slider 25 become the predetermined breaking points 35 destroyed.

So that the locking body 20 remains in the retracted position, are locking means 41 provided between the slider 25 and the lock body 20 releasably engageable with each other. 2 shows the locking means 41 in a separate position. The locking means 41 are designed as hook connections, which engage in locking tongues 42 on the slide 25 are located ( 3 and 4 ). The locking tongues 42 stand in the direction of the blocking body 20 in front. In this embodiment, there are locking tongues 42 or latching means 41 both near the free ends 34 the poor 24 as well as near the fixed ends 39 on the lock body 20 ,

The hook connections 43 . 44 are in an enlarged view in 6 to recognize. These are the hook connections 43 . 44 in this embodiment by diametrically opposed corrugations. The raises 45 and depressions 46 extend in the longitudinal direction of the locking spring 19a , that is also in the longitudinal direction L of the retaining groove 18 ( 3 ). The raises 45 and depressions 46 the hook connection 43 on the lock body 20 and at the catch tongue 42 on the slider 25 overlap, leaving the latching means 41 interlock positively.

The hook connection is not fixed to wave profiles, zigzag profiles or generally to certain profile shapes. The basic operating principle of the locking means 41 is to create a positive connection, as shown by the embodiment of the 7 and 8th is clarified. It is a simple hook connection, each with an increase 45 and a depression 46 on the slide 25 or blocking body 20 , The components can be brought together by displacement in the longitudinal direction and thereby interlocked 8th ).

The 9 and 10 show the locking spring 19a once in a perspective view from below and in the other case in a perspective view from above. 9 shows that adjacent to the hook connections 43 on the lock body 20 a guide 47 is arranged. The leadership 47 is formed as a flat surface, which is parallel to a top or bottom of the locking spring 19a runs. For locking the slider 25 and the lock body 20 becomes the catch tongue 42 at the lead 47 positioned and moved in the longitudinal direction L.

Based on 9 is to realize that the leadership 47 between the fixed ends 39 the poor 24 arranged in pockets, so that the locking tongues 42 not only in the longitudinal direction L, but also in the transverse direction Q ( 3 ) exactly opposite the hook connection 43 on the lock body 20 are positionable. This facilitates the mutual locking.

Another element of the locking spring 19a is a support block 48 , He is with the slider 25 permanently integrally connected in one piece. The support block 48 is located at the end of the operation 33 opposite end of the slide 25 , The support block 48 has several elevations on its top and bottom 49 ( 3 ), which in the installation position with the upper groove cheek 28 or lower groove cheek 27 dig. This allows the support block 48 in the installation position no longer in the longitudinal direction L of the retaining groove 18 be moved. It forms an abutment for the slider 25 or the triggering force A.

The slider 25 is over a first, arcuately curved return spring 50 , with the support block 48 connected. The return spring 50 extends substantially transversely to the retaining groove 18 , The return spring 50 Due to its curved contour, it can also be called a leaf spring. The restoring forces of the return spring 50 are indicated by the arrow R marked ( 3 ). After moving the slider 25 a minimum displacement V pushes the end of the slider 25 to a second return spring 51 also on the support block 48 is arranged. The second return spring 51 is configured finger-shaped in this embodiment. It protrudes diagonally from a front side 52 of the support block 48 towards a back 53 of the support block 48 ,

The first return spring 50 , at the same time the link between the slider 25 and the support block 48 is, has a support surface 54 as an abutment for a front side 55 of the locking body 20 serves. The support surface 54 and the front side 55 are oriented and coordinated so that the direction of movement Q of the blocking body 20 at right angles to the bottom of the groove 26 or slider 25 stands. 3 shows the orientations of the individual directions of movement. The locking body 20 is therefore only perpendicular to the retaining groove 18 shifted in the locked position. The locking body 20 learns in this embodiment, no displacement in the longitudinal direction L of the retaining 18 ,

The 12 to 16 show a further embodiment, wherein identical reference numerals have been used for substantially the same components. The difference between the locking spring 19h of the 12 and those of 3 is that with the same length of the locking spring 19a . 19h now seven instead of nine arms 24 are provided. Another difference is that the locking means 41 wider locking tongues 42a with two hook connections each 44 have. The hook connection 44 are arranged in the longitudinal direction at a distance from each other. 12 shows this in an enlarged view. In the appropriate distance to each other there are two hook connections 43 on the lock body 20 , Adjacent to the hook connections 43 on the locking body 20 there are two guides 47 , In addition, there is a guide 65 between the hook connections 44 at the catch tongue 42 , The leadership 65 is undercut. It serves as well as the guides 47 on the corresponding blocking body 20 for receiving the hook connection 44 of the other component.

The difference from in 6 shown corrugation is that the hook connections 43 . 44 now in the longitudinal direction of the locking spring 19h are arranged offset to each other and that the doubling of the undercuts not as in 6 takes place transversely to the retaining, but that the undercuts in the longitudinal direction per latching tongue 42a to repeat.

Another difference is based on the enlarged views of the 14 to 16 clear. 14 shows in a perspective view in the direction of arrow XIV in 13 only the slider 25 with the catch tongue 42a , It is in 15 to realize that the hook connections 43 . 44 are configured in cross-section substantially triangular and each have an inclined surface 66 . 67 have. The inclined surfaces 66 . 67 stand at an angle to a bottom 68 or top side 69 the locking spring 19h , The surfaces over which the hook connections 43 . 44 engage, are perpendicular to the bottom 68 or top side 69 the locking spring 19h ( 15 ). These contact surfaces are called undercuts 70 . 71 designated. 16 shows how the undercuts 70 . 71 engage each other. You can not automatically slide in the stapled position within the retaining not shown in the transverse direction to the retaining, ie up or down, from each other automatically. This is possible only by displacement in the longitudinal direction.

The embodiments of the other figures are not limited to the specific shape or number of hook connection, z. B. limited in the form of a corrugation. Also in the variant of 17 can single or double hook connections with and without inclined surfaces 66 . 67 as they are in the 14 and 15 may be provided. The specific requirements for the hook connections arise depending on the materials used, the number and arrangement of the arms 24 , the manufacturing tolerances in the retaining groove and the manufacturing conditions. In particular, the locking springs 19h with their inclined surfaces 66 . 67 at the hook connections 43 . 44 easier to be trapped transversely to the retaining, that is brought into the locked position, since this is not due to displacement of the slider 25 must be in the longitudinal direction. The invention is not limited to two hook connections per locking means. Depending latching means can in principle be several, that is also more than two hook connections provided with corresponding undercuts at a mutual distance in the longitudinal and transverse directions. Also, a combination of a plurality of hook connections in the transverse direction and a plurality of hook connections in the longitudinal direction, such as in the form of corrugations, which are spaced from each other, may be provided.

The above-described embodiments are based on the basic principle that the slider 25 along the groove bottom 26 is displaced while the lock body 20 by unlocking locking devices 41 under the influence of a spring force F transverse, that is perpendicular from the retaining groove 18 can be moved out. The following examples show modifications of this basic principle.

17 shows a further embodiment of a locking spring 19b with a slider 25 , a locking body 20 and a support block 48 , In 12 is the locking spring 19b shown in different states. 12a shows the locking spring 19b in the finished state, as it can be arranged in a tray together with several plastic springs. It can be seen that the locking body 20 not yet with the slide 25 is locked. The two mentioned components are still over predetermined breaking points 35 connected with each other.

17b shows the locking spring 19b in the quenched state, that is, when the lock body 20 with the slider 25 engages engaged, so in the retaining groove 18 located. 17c shows that the latching tongue 42 on the slide 25 no longer with the hook connection 43 on the lock body 20 engaged. The 17c shows the locking spring 19b another one of the release position. The comb-like return spring 50 over which the slider 25 with the support block 48 is connected, is pivoted to the right. The locking body 20 is thus disengaged from the slide 25 , Accordingly, the power of the arms now works 24 in the way that the arms are 24 relax and the lock body 20 in the in 17d Press the position shown. 17d shows the locking position. The previous one

17e shows the locking spring 19b back in the starting position. The return spring 50 is shifted to the left in the image plane. Accordingly, the slider is 25 been moved back to the starting position. The predetermined breaking points 35 do not exist anymore. The poor 24 lie directly on the slide 25 at. The locking body 20 remains in the locked position and can only by overcoming the spring force of the arms 24 be brought back to the unlocking position, as in 17b and c is shown.

The return spring 50 has several comb-like tines, each one from the back 40 of the slider 25 towards a front side 52 of the support block 48 extend. The support surface 54 at the support block 48 runs perpendicular to the bottom of the groove 26 the holding groove 18 , Accordingly, the front slides 55 of the locking body 20 across the holding groove 18 on the support block 48 from.

Another difference over the embodiment of the 1 to 16 is based on the sectional views of the 18 to recognize. 18a shows the locking spring 19b in the release position according to 17b , The locking body 20 is with the slider 25 hooked. It is in 18a and b to realize that the hook connection 43 . 44 a positive connection is. The wells 46 or increases 45 the hook connections 43 . 44 However, they are wedge-shaped. That is, the depth of the depression 46 at the catch tongue 42 of the slider 25 takes from the free end of the latching tongue 42 to the back 40 of the slider 25 to. Conversely, the increase decreases 45 from. The hook connection 43 on the lock body 20 is configured the same way. 18b shows the slider 25 and the lock body 20 in the distance to each other. The two components are unlocked. As it were, the panels 1 . 2 locked by it.

The embodiment of 19 is different from the one of 17 and 18 in that the slider 25 at his the support block 48 adjacent end one towards the locking body 20 pointing ahead 56 which, when moving the slider 25 in the longitudinal direction with a ramp surface 57 got in contact. A return spring is not provided. The casserole 57 is to the back 40 of the slide or groove bottom 26 ( 2 ) inclined. This allows the release force on the ramp surface 57 on the lock body 20 be transmitted, so that the locking body 20 not only by the spring force of the arms 24 but also according to the principle of the inclined plane in the area of the casserole 57 from the release position in the locking position is displaced.

19a shows the locking spring 19c in the initial state. The locking spring 19c is a one-piece component. All components are above predetermined breaking points 35 connected with each other. 19b shows the locking spring 19c then in the dangled state in the release position, in which the locking spring 19c not via a holding not shown 18 protrudes longitudinally. The poor 24 are biased. The locking means 41 are engaged with each other. A front page 55 of the locking body 20 lies on a stepped support surface 45 of the support block 48 at. The support block 48 prevents shifting of the locking body 20 in the longitudinal direction of the retaining groove.

19c shows the locking spring 19c while unlocking. To illustrate, the locking means 41 already decoupled. The lead 56 is already shifted so far that he has the casserole 57 from the starting position presses. For illustration, the casserole 57 and the lead 56 overlapping. 19d finally shows the final position of the slider 25 , He is now in the picture plane quite right, just before the support block 48 ,

Another difference is that the arms 24 with their free ends to consoles 58 on the slide 25 are supported. The consoles 58 are projections that are in the direction of the arms 24 protrude. About the consoles 58 , which may be additionally inclined, the stroke, over which the Lock body is displaced transversely out of the retaining, are increased. The consoles 58 act as wedges.

The 20a to e show another embodiment of a locking spring 19d , In 20a is the locking spring 19d in the initial state. Predetermined breaking points 35 connect the slider 25 with the locking body 20 , End is a support block 48 intended. The support block 48 has in this embodiment an inclined surface 59 in addition to a support surface 54 , During the support surface 54 for supporting the front side 55 of the locking body 20 is provided and extending transversely to the longitudinal direction of the retaining 18 extends, is the inclined surface 59 at an angle not equal to 90 ° to the support surface 54 arranged. The inclined surface 59 is meant for an end 60 of the slider 25 to get in touch.

20b shows the locking spring 19d in the quenched state. The locking means 41 are engaged. The poor 24 are biased. The end 60 of the slider 25 lies on a rear side of the blocking body 20 at. 20c now shows the process of unlocking. This is the slider 25 shifted to the right in the image plane, so that the free end 60 of the slider 25 with the inclined surface 59 comes into contact. The free end 60 slides on the inclined surface 59 and pushes the locking body 20 from the holding groove 18 out while he's with his forehead 55 on the support surface 54 slides.

20d finally shows the locking spring 19d in the completely unlocked state. The locking body 20 has been displaced only transverse to the longitudinal direction of the retaining, while the slider 25 has been shifted exclusively in the longitudinal direction. The free end 60 of the slider 25 is now between the end 61 of the locking body 20 and the support block 48 so that the locking body 20 in this area against pushing back to the starting position receives support. The free end 60 of the slider 25 serves here as it were as a blocking element or wedge.

20e shows how the slider 25 is pushed back to the starting position again. This is from the free end 61 of the locking body 20 forth pressure on the locking body 20 exercised. He is going towards the slider 25 crowded. The poor 24 be biased again. The locking means 41 gradually come back into engagement because the free end 60 of the slider 25 on the sloping surface 59 slips off and the slider 25 moved back to the starting position.

21 shows a further embodiment of a locking spring 19e in four different positions. 21a shows the locking spring 19e as produced within a tray. The support block 48 is about a breaking point 35 with the locking body 20 connected. In the same way is the blocking body 20 over predetermined breaking points 35 with the slider 25 connected. 21b shows the locking spring 19e in a thinned state and 21c in the unlocked position. The front side 55 of the locking body 20 is not perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L of the retaining groove in this embodiment 18 arranged as in all other previous embodiments.

Rather, the end face extends obliquely, ie at an angle to the groove bottom. In the same way is on the support block 48 a support surface 54 bevelled and formed as an inclined surface. The two surfaces in contact with each other (front side 55 and support surface 54 ) are oriented so that when moving the slider 25 in the longitudinal direction, a Ausschwenkbewegung the free end 61 the locking body is supported from the release position to the locking position. Depending on the inclination of the two sloping surfaces 54 . 55 However, the displacement of the inner, biased position can still be almost perpendicular to the groove bottom 26 ie transverse to the retaining groove 18 done, especially if the spring force of the arms 24 so big is that when unlocking the locking means 41 the locking body 20 directly from the retaining groove 18 pops out. Accordingly, in the illustration of the 21 the locking body 20 also not opposite the latched position to the right towards the support block 16 relocated.

The 22 to 24 show a further embodiment of a locking spring 19f , In 22a the spring is shown in the original state in the tray. The slider 25 is about breaking points 35 with the locking body 25 connected. An essential difference is that there is no support block.

22b shows the locking spring 19f in the locked state. In this embodiment, all are in only a single direction facing arms 24 biased. The locking means 41 are engaged. 22c shows how the slider 25 with his end of operation 33 in the image plane is shifted to the right. The locking body 20 will not be relocated. In 22d is shown as the slider 25 reached his final position. The operating section 33 is now at an end 62 of the locking body 20 at. The locking means 41 are completely unlocked. This is the release position. Now the lock body 20 be shifted out of the retaining groove out. The poor 24 in each case pivot about a clamping projection 63 at the free end 30 the poor 24 , The 23a and b are enlarged views of the 22a and b relative to the left end. The 24a and b show the corresponding right ends of the lock spring 19f in an enlarged view. Additionally is in 24c the locking spring 19f in the Locking position shown while the slider 20 remains at the groove bottom. This corresponds to the representation of 22e ,

It is from the 22 to 24 to recognize that the individual arms 24 also in this embodiment to consoles 58 on the slide 25 are supported. The variety of clamping projections 26 on the arms 24 causes the locking body 20 not in the longitudinal direction L of the retaining groove 18 is displaceable, but only the slider 25 , This is especially in a juxtaposition of 24b and c clearly. It can be seen that the end 60 of the slider 25 over the end 61 of the locking body 20 slightly protruding. The locking body 20 has its position in the longitudinal direction L of the retaining groove 18 but does not look at it. That's on the ten clamping projections 63 at the ten arms 24 attributed to generate a greater clamping force in conjunction with the groove cheeks, as to be overcome static friction, the release of the locking means 41 is required.

25 shows a further embodiment of a locking spring 19g , The slider 25 is designed as a long slender component that in turn is supported and guided as in all other embodiments of the groove bottom of the retaining groove, not shown. The slider 25 is about his left in the image plane arranged actuator end 33 moved in the longitudinal direction of the retaining. In contrast to the other embodiments, the locking body 20 not provided with additional resilient arms, but has several bows 64 , In this embodiment, there are three sheets 64 , At the apex of each arch 64 each is a latching tongue 42 arranged, the part of the locking means 41 is and is intended, by means of a not shown in detail hook connection with the slider 25 to be locked. 25a shows the two-part locking spring 19g in the initial state. The locking body 20 and the slider 25 are not connected. 25b shows the locked position. The locking tongues 42 are there with the bows 64 hooked. The bows were 64 stretched. The locking body 20 consists of an elastic material, in particular plastic. The bows 64 are almost completely stretched on the whole straight slide 25 at. The locking spring 19g is in the inner, pre-stressed position.

In contrast to the other embodiments, no separate arms are provided for applying the spring force. The bows 64 be through the central locking means 41 divided into left and right thighs. The ends of these legs of the bows 64 are connected to each other and press in the preloaded position in the area of a pressure point P on the slide 25 , To unlock the locking means 41 released from each other again by the slider 25 in the image plane is shifted to the right. This is in 25c shown. The bows grip 64 of the locking body 20 behind an indicated locking edge 21 an adjacent panel 2 , This design of a locking spring 19g is very slim and requires only a very small depth of the retaining groove.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

1st panel

2

2nd panel

3

head

4

head

5

long side

6

long side

7

1. locking strip

8th

2. Locking bar

9

bottom

10

 1. dome channel

11

 1. dome bulge

12

 coupling slot

13

 2. dome bulge

14

 flank

15

 flank

16

 catch projection

17

 top

18

 retaining groove

19a

 locking spring

19b

 locking spring

19c

 locking spring

19d

 locking spring

19e

 locking spring

19f

 locking spring

19g

 locking spring

19h

 locking spring

20

 blocking body

21

 locking edge

22

 locking

23

 supporting projection

24

 poor

25

 pusher

26

 groove base

27

 lower groove cheek

28

 upper groove cheek

29

 top

30

 front

31

 sliding surface

32

 control edge

33

 actuating end

34

free end of 24

35

 Breaking point

36a

 holder

36b

 holder

37

 Bags

38

 gap

39

End of 24

40

 back

41

 latching means

42

catch tongue

42a

 catch tongue

43

 hook connection

44

 hook connection

45

 increase

46

 deepening

47

 guide

48

 support block

49

 survey

50

 1. return spring

51

 2. Return spring

52

 front

53

 back

54

 support surface

55

 front

56

 head Start

57

 ramp surface

58

 console

59

 sloping surface

60

 The End

61

 The End

62

 The End

63

 clamping projection

64

 bow

65

 guide surface

66

 sloping surface

67

 sloping surface

68

Bottom of 19h

69

Top of 19h

70

 undercut

71

 undercut

A

release force

F

spring force

L

longitudinal direction

P

pressure point

R

Restoring force

Q

Movement direction of 20

S

tension

V

Mindestverschiebeweg

W1

 angle

W2

 angle

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102006037614 B3 [0004]

Claims (20)

Mechanical connection for panels having the following features: a) the panels ( 1 . 2 ) have at their sides to be joined ( 3 . 4 ) a profiling over which the adjacent first and second panels ( 1 . 2 ) are locked together in the mounting position; b) On the first panel ( 1 ) is a retaining groove ( 18 ) and on the second panel ( 2 ) is a locking edge ( 21 ), wherein in the retaining groove ( 18 ) a locking spring ( 19a -H) used when locking the panels ( 1 . 2 ) partially behind the the locking edge ( 21 ) of the second panel ( 2 ) is displaceable; c) The locking spring ( 19a -H) has a blocking body ( 20 ) which is adapted to be displaced from a release position to a locking position, in the locking position behind the locking edge ( 21 ) to grab; d) The locking spring ( 19a -H) has a slider ( 25 ), which in the longitudinal direction (L) of the retaining groove ( 18 ) is displaceable and thereby at a groove bottom ( 26 ) the retaining groove ( 18 ) is guided; e) The blocking body ( 20 ) is with a spring force (F) on the slider ( 25 ), which are transverse to the longitudinal direction (L) of the retaining ( 18 ) acts; f) There are between the slider ( 25 ) and the blocking body ( 20 ) effective locking means ( 41 ) arranged for a mutual, releasable connection, which in an inner, biased position the locking body ( 20 ) in releasable latching engagement with the slider ( 25 ) hold; g) The blocking body ( 20 ) is under the influence of a longitudinal (L) of the retaining groove ( 18 ) on the slide ( 25 ) and the slider ( 25 ) releasable in the longitudinal direction (L) releasing force (A) from the latching engagement, so that the blocking body ( 20 ) under the influence of the spring force (F) partially from the retaining groove ( 18 ) is displaceable out in the locking position. Mechanical connection according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking spring ( 19a -E, h) at one end one in the retaining groove ( 18 ) supported block ( 48 ), for supporting the blocking body ( 20 ) against displacement in the longitudinal direction (L) of the retaining groove ( 18 ). Mechanical connection according to claim 2, characterized in that the blocking body ( 20 ) an end face ( 55 ), with which it is in the inner, biased position on a support surface ( 54 ) of the support block ( 48 ) is applied, wherein the end face ( 55 ) and the support surface ( 54 ) are matched to one another such that the direction of movement (Q) of the blocking body ( 20 ) during displacement in its locking position perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) of the retaining groove ( 18 ). Mechanical connection according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the latching means ( 21 ) Hook connections ( 43 . 44 ) by displacing the slider ( 25 ) in the longitudinal direction (L) and / or transverse direction of the retaining groove ( 18 ) are detachable. Mechanical connection according to claim 4, characterized in that the latching means ( 41 ) of the slider ( 25 ) to the blocking body ( 20 ) pointing latching tongues ( 42 . 42a ), which on at least one of its groove cheeks ( 27 . 28 ) the retaining groove ( 18 ) facing sides in each case with at least one hook connection ( 44 ) are provided. Mechanical connection according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the hook connections ( 43 . 44 ) are formed as corrugations whose elevations ( 45 ) and depressions ( 46 ) in the longitudinal direction (L) of the retaining groove ( 18 ). Mechanical connection according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the locking body ( 20 ) via springy arms ( 24 ) on the slide ( 25 ) is supported. Mechanical connection according to claim 7, characterized in that on at least one of the groove cheeks ( 27 . 28 ) facing side of an arm ( 24 ) a clamping projection ( 63 ) for engagement with the groove cheek ( 27 . 28 ) is arranged. Mechanical connection according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the resilient arms ( 24 ) on the lock body ( 20 ) are arranged and with their free ends ( 35 ) in opposite directions. Mechanical connection according to claim 9, characterized in that the locking means ( 41 ) of the blocking body ( 20 ) between the free ends ( 34 ) the poor ( 24 ) are arranged. Mechanical connection according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the latching means ( 41 ) of the blocking body ( 20 ) between the on the lock body ( 20 ) ends ( 39 ) the poor ( 24 ) are arranged. Mechanical connection according to claim 11, characterized in that adjacent to the hook connections ( 43 ) of the blocking body ( 20 ) Guides ( 47 ) for the hook connection ( 44 ) of the slider ( 25 ) are formed. Mechanical connection according to one of claims 2 to 12, characterized in that between the slide ( 25 ) and the support block ( 48 ) at least one return spring ( 50 . 51 ), which is adapted to a restoring force (R) in Longitudinal direction (L) of the retaining groove ( 18 ) on the slide ( 25 ) exercise. Mechanical connection according to claim 13, characterized in that a return spring ( 51 ) at a distance from the slider ( 25 ) and is arranged, after a Mindestverschiebeweg (V) of the slide ( 25 ) with the slider ( 25 ) to get in touch. Mechanical connection according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the slide ( 25 ), the at least one return spring ( 50 . 51 ) and the support block ( 48 ) are integrally formed of the same material. Mechanical connection according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the blocking body ( 20 ) before mounting in the retaining groove ( 18 ) via predetermined breaking connections ( 35 ) cohesively with the slider ( 25 ), wherein the predetermined breaking connections ( 35 ) are intended to be destroyed when the blocking body ( 20 ) with the slider ( 25 ) for the first time via the locking means ( 41 ) is locked. Mechanical connection according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that a longitudinal side of the retaining groove ( 18 ) protruding part of the blocking body ( 20 ) in the transition from its top ( 29 ) to its front ( 30 ) an inclined sliding surface ( 31 ) possesses over which of the blocking bodies ( 20 ) when vertically placing or bending the adjacent panel ( 2 ) back into the retaining groove ( 18 ) is displaceable back, without using the locking means ( 41 ) to be latched and under the influence of the spring force (F) in the locking position again behind the locking edge ( 21 ) attacks. Method for mounting a locking spring ( 19a -H) in a panel ( 1 . 2 ) for producing a mechanical connection according to one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the locking spring ( 19a -H) is manufactured as a unitary component of material and in a retaining groove ( 18 ) of a panel ( 1 ) is used, wherein for insertion first of the slide ( 25 ) in the longitudinal direction (L) of the retaining groove ( 18 ), then the blocking body ( 20 ) to the slider ( 25 ) and then the slide ( 25 ) is displaced back in the longitudinal direction (L) and in an inner, biased position with the slider ( 25 ) is locked. Method for connecting panels to a mechanical connection according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that a first panel ( 1 ) and then a second panel ( 2 ) with a vertical lowering or Abschwenkbewegung the edge of the first panel ( 1 ) is placed while the locking spring ( 19a -H) in the preloaded release position on the first panel ( 1 ), wherein the locking connection between the locking body ( 20 ) and the slider ( 25 ) by a longitudinal direction (L) of the retaining groove ( 18 ) and the slider ( 25 ) Releasing release force (A) and the lock body ( 20 ) is displaced under the influence of the spring force (F) in the locking position. Method for connecting panels to a mechanical connection according to claim 17, characterized in that a first panel ( 1 ) and then a second panel ( 2 ) with a vertical lowering or Abschwenkbewegung the edge of the first panel ( 1 ) is placed while the lock body ( 20 ) from the retaining groove ( 18 protruding), wherein the blocking body ( 20 ) when attaching the second panel ( 2 ) only so far by sliding on the sliding surface ( 31 ) of the blocking body ( 20 ) against the spring force (F) in the retaining groove ( 18 ) is pressed, that the locking means ( 41 ) do not engage with each other and the locking body ( 20 ) is displaced in the mounting position under the influence of the spring force (F) in the locking position.

Images