DE102022209825A1 - Self-closing channel - Google Patents

Abstract

A self-closing channel (20) is disclosed for receiving an elongated solid body (22) in order to protect the elongated solid body from foreign bodies penetrating into the channel (20). The channel comprises a base element (24) and a closure tab (26). The base element forms a support for the elongated solid body (22). The closure tab is mechanically connected to the base element (24) in such a way that a relative movement of the base element (24) relative to a foot point (30) of the closure tab causes a head point (32) of the closure tab (26) opposite the base point (30) to produce a closure movement executes. The closure tab (26) is designed to close the self-closing channel (20) after the closure movement in such a way that the self-closing channel (20) completely encloses the elongated solid body (22) or at least predominantly encloses the elongated solid body (22) and has a transition edge ( 34) between the self-closing channel (20) and the elongated solid body (22) rests firmly on the elongated solid body (22).

Description

The invention relates to a device and a method for connecting a coated coil spring for a vehicle to a spring base.

The rolling behavior of coil springs in their working area, i.e. between the upper stop (LOA) and lower stop (LUA), creates a relative movement between the spring coil and the spring base at the spring end coils. The relative movement creates a gap that allows dirt (stones/dust/liquids) to penetrate between the coil and the base. Due to the movement of the spring, these dirt particles act like an abrasive paste and can destroy the paint layer and thus the corrosion protection of the spring. As a result, the spring has a weak point at the ends due to strong corrosion, which reduces its service life.

These disadvantages are eliminated by gluing the spring to the spring base. In the currently known solutions, cold-curing adhesive systems are usually used to bond the spring to the spring base. These are usually 2-component systems that only harden after both components have been mixed together. At room temperature, such systems usually require a few minutes to several hours to harden. For some systems, increased curing temperatures result in shortened curing times.

With another known solution ( DE 10 2020 205 313 A1 ) An adhesive is also introduced between the spring and the spring base, but there is only a material connection with the adhesive towards the spring, while a purely positive connection, for example, is produced towards the spring base. This is done, for example, by undercuts that are made in the surface of the spring base, into which the not yet hardened adhesive flows. After curing, the adhesive gets caught in these undercuts and holds the spring pad to the spring.

For both solutions, an adhesive must be added in addition to the spring and spring base. This means an additional, complicated process in the production chain. An additional substance is required, the adhesive, and possibly also an activator. Another disadvantage is that in the variant that is glued on both sides, the spring base can no longer be separated from the spring, which causes additional costs for replacement and disposal. In addition, over the course of the vehicle's service life, small adhesive particles are released into the environment, for example due to abrasion, thus further polluting the environment.

Another state-of-the-art solution is to pull a protective plastic tube over the affected spring end ( DE 10 2018 214 797 B3 ). If dirt gets in, the protective tube is first damaged before the spring is attacked directly. The protective tube thus delays damage to the spring. The disadvantage of this solution is that the protective tube can advantageously be individually adapted to each spring wire. In addition, attaching the hoses to the spring ends is only possible manually and is currently not automated. This obviously extends the production time for a spring significantly and represents an increased cost factor.

The methods mentioned all have another disadvantage. The spring cannot be separated from the spring base without being destroyed. The same applies to the use of the protective tube if it is glued to the spring. The reuse of the spring is therefore impossible. As a result, it is melted down, whereby the spring base or at least residues of it on the spring evaporate. This can produce toxic fumes, which in turn require special cleaning. From an environmental perspective, it is therefore only possible to recycle the spring with its spring base with great effort.

The object of the present invention is therefore to create an improved concept for protecting an elongated solid body, in particular a (coil) spring, against foreign bodies.

The task is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Further advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

Embodiments show a self-closing channel for receiving an elongated solid body to protect the elongated solid body from foreign bodies penetrating into the channel. In particular, the solid is coated, for example with a lacquer. The coating can protect the solid against environmental influences, such as corrosion. Foreign bodies entering the channel can damage the coating and thus reduce the lifespan of the solid. An example of an application is a coated, in particular painted, coil spring for a motor vehicle, where an end turn region of the coil spring is the elongated solid body. The channel forms the spring base for the end turn area of the coil spring. The self-closing channel is then also referred to as a self-closing spring pad. The effects of foreign bodies penetrating between the spring and the spring base are described in the introduction to the description.

The self-closing channel also has a base element that forms a support for the elongated solid body. In the case of the coil spring application, the base element therefore forms the actual spring base. In addition, the self-closing channel has at least one closure tab, preferably at least two, i.e. for example a pair of closure tabs. The closure tab(s) is mechanically connected to the base element in such a way that a head point of the closure tab opposite the base point executes a closure movement due to a relative movement of the base element relative to a base point of the closure tab. The closure tab is designed to close the self-closing channel after the closure movement in such a way that the self-closing channel completely encloses the elongated solid body (laterally) or at least encloses the elongated solid body and a transition edge between the self-closing channel and the elongated solid body rests firmly on the elongated solid body. In other words, the self-closing channel completely encloses a predetermined or permitted (maximum) volume for the elongated solid. Alternatively, the closure tab forms the transition edge for each predetermined or permitted volume. A combination is also conceivable in which the self-closing channel completely encloses the predetermined volume for the elongated solid up to a predetermined limit volume and, from the predetermined limit volume, forms the transition edge to every further predetermined or permitted volume

The contact surface of the elongated solid body on the base element is thus protected against the ingress of foreign bodies. Otherwise, the spring could be permanently damaged by the penetration of foreign bodies. The self-closing channel thus creates an at least positive connection with the elongated solid body, which acts radially or transversely to the elongated solid body. An additional cohesive connection, for example by gluing, can be avoided.

The support of the elongated solid body on the middle part of the channel is, at least when used as a spring base, preferably in the form of a circular segment. The support can also have a different contour, e.g. a straight (plane) or oval (elliptical) shape. When using the circle segment, the radius of the spring wire or the elongated solid body preferably corresponds to the radius of the circle segment. In order to be able to use a channel for several elongated solid bodies, the radius can also correspond to the radius of the largest spring wire in a group of springs. Springs with a smaller wire diameter will still fit into the channel. The automatic closing of the channel also works, for example, if the spring wire is smaller than the radius of the circle segment, since the closing occurs through the spring force acting on the base element.

Two surfaces of the closure tab are understood as the base point or head point. If the self-closing channel is arranged in such a way that the support for the elongated solid is arranged horizontally and the elongated solid can be placed on the support from above, the base point can represent the lowest point of the self-closing channel. Analogously, in this orientation of the self-closing channel, the head point can represent the highest point of the self-closing channel, at least in the open, i.e. not closed, state. When closed, the head point is moved downwards, so that it is possible that the head point no longer represents the highest point of the self-closing channel. The head point and, additionally or alternatively, the base point can run parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated solid.

The idea is therefore to provide a channel in which the elongated solid body is protected from solid bodies penetrating into the channel. The channel can be closed by a simple and therefore automated relative movement of the base element relative to a base point. The use of an adhesive or similar is not necessary, so that the elongated solid body and the channel can be separated from each other without leaving any residue and a process step in production is eliminated. This is an important environmental aspect of recycling. A self-closing channel can also be replaced without the elongated solid body also having to be replaced. In other words, the self-closing channel, for example the spring base, can be constructed in such a way that when the elongated solid body, for example the spring, is installed in the channel, a protective hood, the closure tab, which is an integral part, extends over the seat of the elongated solid body, for example the Spring seat, attaches and closes. This can only happen due to the force acting on the channel through the solid body.

The entire channel can preferably be formed from a coherent component, for example as an injection molded part. The spring pad but can also be composed of several parts. In particular, the inner ring, middle part and outer ring can be present as individual parts, which are connected to one another in a materially or positively locking manner to complete the channel.

The channel can be a plastic, in particular an elastic plastic, selected from a group of elastomers or elastomer-containing plastics, in particular polyurethane, acrylonitrile-butadiene acrylate, acrylonitrile-chlorinated polyethylene-styrene, acrylonitrile-methyl methacrylate, butadiene rubber, butyl rubber, chloroprene rubber, Ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene-propylene-diene rubber, ethylene-vinyl acetate, fluororubber, isoprene rubber, natural rubber, polyisobutylene, polyvinyl butyral, silicone rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, vinyl chloride-ethylene, vinyl chloride-ethylene methacrylate or a combination have or consist of this. A hardness of the channel material used is, for example, in a range of 50-80 Shore-A, preferably 70-80 Shore-A. To stabilize the channel, inserts, for example made of a further, particularly harder plastic, can also be integrated into the spring base.

In exemplary embodiments, the closure tab is designed to carry out the closure movement when the relative movement is carried out by pressure on the support for the elongated solid body of the base element. The elongated solid body can thus be pressed onto the base element, for example by means of a robot, with the channel automatically closing. Channel and elongated solid body can thus be connected to one another in one process step. If both were glued, further steps would be necessary such as introducing the adhesive and waiting time for the adhesive to harden.

In further exemplary embodiments, the self-closing channel in the assembled state rests with its base on a base, the base being designed to apply a counterforce when pressure is applied to the support for the elongated solid body in the direction of the base, which enables the support to move moves relative to the base point in the direction of the base. Optionally, the base is a spring plate. However, other documents are also conceivable that can be mounted immovably when installed. Optionally, the base is part of the self-closing channel and is designed to be immovably mounted in a system, for example a motor vehicle.

In further exemplary embodiments, the base element is mechanically connected to the head point of the closure tab by means of a web, so that the web, through the relative movement of the base element to the base point, moves the head point, in particular moves the head point in the direction of the relative movement in order to carry out the closure movement. A further movement of the head point, for example transversely to the relative movement, is also possible. For example, the head point can move on a curved line.

In exemplary embodiments, a transition from the web to the head point of the closure tab has the absence of a tip. The transition is preferably rounded, i.e. the transition has, for example, a partial circle or a partial oval. The risk of the transition between the web and the tip point breaking is lower if the tip is missing. When subjected to a tensile load, as occurs here, a pointed transition tears more quickly than a curved transition such as an oval or circle.

Further exemplary embodiments show that a size of the closure tab is selected such that there is a projection of a volume of the self-closing channel, which the elongated solid body is allowed to fill when the elongated solid body rests on the base element, onto the closure tab that lies completely within the closure tab . The volume is therefore the (maximum) volume predetermined for the elongated solid. In another view, the closure tab is guided past the volume of the self-closing channel, which the elongated solid body is allowed to fill when the elongated solid body rests on the base element. The head point of the closure tab then protrudes beyond the volume. The volume that the elongated solid is allowed to fill results, for example, from the specification of the elongated channel. There it is specified what maximum cross-sectional area, for example what radius or what width and what height, the elongated solid body may have for use with the self-closing channel. This information results in the (maximum) volume that the elongated solid can fill. This makes it possible to completely or at least predominantly close the self-closing channel using the closure tab.

In exemplary embodiments, the closure tab has a taper between the base point and the head point. This reduces the force required to perform the locking movement of the locking tab. In other words, the closure tab can have a uniform wall thickness up to its head point. However, it is advantageous if the closure tab has different wall thicknesses. When open, the closure tab preferably points next to the elongated solid body has a section in which there is a decreasing wall thickness, viewed from the base point to the top point. The force load when the webs are pulled must be taken into account when choosing the wall thickness of the webs. The strength of the duct material should not be exceeded. The wall thicknesses of the webs can also have a wide variety of values, whereby the force exerted when the closure tab is pulled must be taken into account and should not exceed the strength of the material of the channel.

In further embodiments, the self-closing channel has a curvature to accommodate a longitudinally curved elongated solid body. The closure tab may then have notches (for example cuts or tapered, for example V-shaped notches) through the head point in the longitudinal direction of the self-closing channel to enable improved closure of the curved channel. This is particularly advantageous if the closure tab is located on an outside of the curved, self-closing channel. If the curved self-closing channel additionally or alternatively has the closure tab on its inside, it is advantageous to use a material that is stretchable for the closure tab. This makes it easier to bend the inner closure tab outwards in order to be able to carry out the closure movement. With regard to the aforementioned projection of the volume onto the closure flap, it should be noted that the notches are viewed as part of the closure flap.

A further exemplary embodiment discloses that an end face of the self-closing channel has a closing element in order to protect the channel from frontal penetration of the foreign body. The closing tab protects the self-closing channel radially or transversely to the elongated solid body against the ingress of foreign bodies. However, if, due to the design, it is also possible that foreign bodies can penetrate into the channel at the front, the closing element can also protect the channel there from penetration of the foreign bodies.

On the side facing away from the end face of the channel (in the case of a spring base, this corresponds to the end of the release area of the spring), the self-closing channel in exemplary embodiments has sealing lips which protect the elongated solid against penetration of foreign bodies (liquids and dirt) at this point.

Further exemplary embodiments show that the self-closing channel is designed to rest on a base. The base element can then have a connection partner which is designed to enter into a mechanical, for example positive, connection with a corresponding connection partner of the base after the base element has carried out the relative movement with respect to the base point of the closure tab, so that the base element is mechanically fixed in its end position . This can prevent the self-closing channel from opening again unintentionally. Preferably, the connection partner of the base element is an integral part of the same. In other words, the connection partner of the base element can connect to the spring plate in a form-fitting manner by the connection partner dipping into a corresponding recess as a connection partner of the base (negative form of the connection partner) of the spring plate and anchoring itself in a form-fitting manner. This ensures that when the spring is lifted off, the base element does not come loose from the spring plate again, causing the protective cover to open and foreign bodies to enter the channel.

The previous exemplary embodiments can be designed with either one or two closure tabs. Unless otherwise stated, the following exemplary embodiments show the self-closing channel with a further (second) closure tab. The further closure tab is mechanically connected to the base element on the side facing away from the closure tab in such a way that a relative movement of the base element relative to a base point of the further closure tab causes a head point of the further closure tab opposite the base point to carry out a closure movement. The further closure tab is designed together with the closure tab to close the self-closing channel after the closure movement in such a way that the self-closing channel completely encloses the elongated solid or at least predominantly encloses the elongated solid and a transition edge between the self-closing channel and the elongated solid is firmly attached to the elongated Solid body is present.

The further closure tab can be designed symmetrically to the (first) closure tab. However, particularly in the case of a curved, self-closing channel, it is possible to design both closure tabs in a non-symmetrical manner.

Advantageously, the closure tab and the further closure tab overlap each other, touching each other, in order to completely enclose the elongated solid body. This makes it possible, for example, to compensate for manufacturing tolerances, without creating an opening through which foreign bodies can enter the canal.

Furthermore, the closure tab and the further closure tab can have connecting elements that correspond to one another in order to obtain a mechanical, for example positive, cohesive or non-positive, connection between the overlapping closure tabs. As a form-fitting connection, for example, two one-sided locking hooks (also referred to as locking lugs) can be used as corresponding connecting elements. As a non-positive connection, two magnets or a magnet and a ferromagnetic material can be used as corresponding connecting elements. A cohesive connection, for example using an adhesive, is also possible here, since only the self-closing channel is glued to itself (i.e. to itself). To remove the elongated solid, the self-closing channel can be cut open and the elongated solid can be removed. Alternatively, the elongated solid body can also be pulled out of the self-closing channel axially or in the longitudinal direction. For example, the opposite head points of the closure tabs can be designed geometrically in such a way that they anchor into one another when the closure tabs close completely.

Furthermore, a system comprising the self-closing channel and the elongated solid body is disclosed. Also disclosed is a system comprising the self-closing channel and the support for the channel. Also disclosed is a system comprising the self-closing channel, the support for the channel and the elongated solid.

Embodiments show a corresponding method for closing an elongated solid body in the self-closing channel according to one of the preceding claims with the following steps: a) inserting the elongated solid body onto the base element of the self-closing channel; b) Exerting a compressive force on the elongated solid body in the direction of the base element, so that the base element is pressed down and the closure tab carries out the closure movement.

• 1: eine schematische Schnittdarstellung durch einen selbstschließenden Kanal mit einem darin eingelegten länglichen Festkörper, wobei 1a den geöffneten selbstschließenden Kanal, 1b die Bewegungsrichtung der beweglichen Elemente des selbstschließenden Kanals, 1c den geschlossenen selbstschließenden Kanal und 1d eine Alternative zu 1c zeigt;
• 2: den selbstschließenden Kanal in der gleichen Querschnittsdarstellung wie in 1, wobei 2a und 2b den selbstschließenden Kanal auf einer Unterlage zeigen in die der selbstschließende Kanal mit dem Schließen einrastet um ein unbeabsichtigtes Öffnen des Kanals zu verhindern und wobei 2c einen weiteren Mechanismus durch Einrasten der Beweglichen Teile des selbstschließenden Kanals zeigt;
• 3 eine schematische Seitenansicht eines gekrümmten selbstschließenden Kanals, der einen gekrümmten länglichen Festkörper aufnehmen kann, wobei 3a den Kanal in seinem geöffneten Zustand, 3b den Kanal analog zu 1b mit Bewegungspfeilen und 3c in seinem geschlossenen Zustand zeigt;
• 4 eine schematische Querschnittdarstellung des selbstschließenden Kanals mit variablen Bemaßungen zur Darstellung von Mindestabmessungen;
• 5 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung des selbstschließenden Kanals, wobei 5a die Abwesenheit von Spitzen beim Übergang des Stegs zur Verschlusslasche offenbart und 5b zusätzlich eine Verjüngung der Verschlusslasche zeigt;
• 6 in 6a eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung des gekrümmten selbstschließenden Kanals und 6b eine korrespondierende Draufsicht auf den gekrümmten selbstschließenden Kanal zeigt.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention are explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

• 1 : a schematic sectional view through a self-closing channel with an elongated solid body inserted therein, where 1a the opened self-closing channel, 1b the direction of movement of the movable elements of the self-closing channel, 1c the closed self-closing channel and 1d an alternative to 1c shows;
• 2 : the self-closing channel in the same cross-sectional view as in 1 , where 2a and 2 B Show the self-closing channel on a surface into which the self-closing channel locks into place when closing to prevent the channel from opening unintentionally and whereby 2c shows another mechanism by engaging the movable parts of the self-closing channel;
• 3 a schematic side view of a curved self-closing channel capable of receiving a curved elongate solid, wherein 3a the channel in its open state, 3b the channel analogue 1b with movement arrows and 3c in its closed state;
• 4 a schematic cross-sectional representation of the self-closing channel with variable dimensions to represent minimum dimensions;
• 5 a schematic sectional view of the self-closing channel, where 5a the absence of peaks at the transition from the web to the closure tab reveals and 5b additionally shows a tapering of the closure tab;
• 6 in 6a a schematic perspective view of the curved self-closing channel and 6b shows a corresponding top view of the curved self-closing channel.

Before exemplary embodiments of the present invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings, it should be noted that identical, functionally identical or equivalent elements, objects and/or structures are provided with the same reference numerals in the different figures, so that those shown in different exemplary embodiments Description of these elements is interchangeable or can be applied to one another.

1 shows a schematic sectional view through a self-closing channel 20 with an elongated solid body 22 inserted therein. The self-closing channel comprises a base element 24, a closure tab 26 and a further closure tab 26 '. The closure tab 26 and the further closure tab 26' are each mechanically connected to the base element 24 with a web 28, 28'. Thus, by a relative movement of the base element 24 relative to a base point 30, 30 'of the closure tabs, a head point 32, 32' of the closure tabs 26, 26' opposite the base points carries out a closure movement, so that the self-closing channel 20 completely encloses the elongated solid body 22 or the elongated solid body 22 at least predominantly encloses and a transition edge 34 between the self-closing channel and the elongated solid body rests firmly on the elongated solid body 22.

In 1a The initial state of the opened, self-closing channel 20 is now shown. In 1b a movement arrow 36a shows the relative movement of the base element 24 relative to the base points 30, 30 '. Movement arrows 36b, 36c indicate the closure movement of the closure tabs 26, 26' resulting from the relative movement of the base element. 1c shows the self-closing channel 20, which completely encloses the elongated solid body 22. 1d shows the alternative to 1c . Here, the self-closing channel predominantly encloses the elongated solid body, with a transition edge 34 between the self-closing channel 20 and the elongated solid body 22 resting firmly on the elongated solid body 22. Here the elongated solid is compared to the elongated solid in 1c shaped differently and the closure tabs 26, 26 'are shorter than in 1c . However, this is only chosen as an example. Other solid bodies, for example round, elongated ones, can also be closed using the tightly fitting transition edge.

2 shows the self-closing channel 20 in the same cross-sectional view as in 1 . In 2a and 2 B A base 38 is additionally disclosed on which the self-closing channel rests. The base element 24 now has a connection partner 40, which can enter into a mechanical connection with a corresponding connection partner 42 of the base after the base element 24 has carried out the relative movement with respect to the base point of the closure tab, so that the base element 24 is mechanically fixed in its end position. This means that the self-closing channel can no longer open by itself.

2a now shows the starting position (open) of the self-closing channel 20 during 2 B shows the closed self-closing channel. Here the connection partner 40 of the base element is snapped into the corresponding connection element 42 of the base 38. Connection partner 40 can therefore be a catch and connection partner 42 can be an opening that fits the catch. It may be sufficient to provide the corresponding connection partners only on a short section of the self-closing channel compared to the length of the self-closing channel. Several corresponding connection partners can also be arranged distributed over the length of the self-closing channel (eg equidistantly).

2c shows an alternative embodiment to prevent the self-closing channel from opening on its own. Here, the closure tab 26 and the further closure tab 26' each have corresponding connecting elements 44, 44' in order to obtain a mechanical connection between the, advantageously overlapping, closure tabs.

3 shows a schematic side view of a curved channel 20, which can accommodate a curved elongated solid. The closure tab 26 has notches 46 through the head point 32 in the longitudinal direction of the self-closing channel 20 to enable improved closure of the curved channel. 3a shows the self-closing channel 20 now in its open state, 3b shows analogously to 1 b a movement arrow 36b shows the closure movement of the closure tab 26 and 3c shows the closed self-closing channel.

$$s3=s4=s1-r1=\frac{1}{2}\cdot \pi \cdot r1-r1=r1\cdot \left(\frac{1}{2}\cdot pi-1\right)\approx r1\cdot \mathrm{0,57}$$

4 shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of the self-closing channel 20 with variable dimensions. In order to completely close the self-closing channel, the lengths s1 and s3 (in the original state, without pressure) must be selected so that they do not fall below a minimum dimension. This minimum dimension is as follows: $$s1=\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="2"\; label="s"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">s</figure-callout>}2=2\cdot \pi \cdot \left(\frac{r}{4}\right)=\frac{1}{2}\cdot \pi \cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="r"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">r</figure-callout>}1$$

$$\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="3"\; label="s"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">s</figure-callout>}3=\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="4"\; label="s"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">s</figure-callout>}4=s1-\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="r"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">r</figure-callout>}1=\frac{1}{2}\cdot \pi \cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="r"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">r</figure-callout>}1-\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="r"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">r</figure-callout>}1=\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="r"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">r</figure-callout>}1\cdot \left(\frac{1}{2}\cdot pi-1\right)\approx \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="r"\; filenames="DE102022209825A1\_0006.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">r</figure-callout>}1\cdot 0.57$$

5 shows a schematic sectional view of the self-closing channel 20. Both in 5a as well as in 5b the transition 48, 48' of the web 28, 28' to the head point 32, 32' of the closure tab 26, 26' has the absence of a tip. This reduces the likelihood of a crack occurring at the junction as a result of the forces acting on the junction. In 5a and 5b the transition is always oval. 5b additionally discloses that the closure tabs 26, 26' each have a taper 50, 50' between the base point 30, 30' and the head point 32, 32'. The taper 50, 50' makes the closure tab easier to bend, so that the closure movement can be carried out more easily.

6a shows a section of a schematic perspective view of a curved self-closing channel 20 with a curved elongated solid body 22 in the closed state. The solid body 22 can be, for example, an end turn region of a helical spring. The channel 20 can then form the spring base.

The principle of the self-closing channel is explained again using the spring pad as an example. This can be applied to other self-closing channels. The spring base 22 has an outer and an inner ring 26, 26 ', between which a middle part 24 is arranged. Inner and outer rings 26, 26' each have an upwardly projecting, elongated extension 32, 32'. When closed, these extensions form the protective cover of the spring base 20. The middle part 24 is connected via side walls 28 on one side to the extension 32 of the outer 26 and on the other side to the extension 32 'of the inner ring 26' of the spring base 20. Before the spring 22 is pressed onto the spring base 20, the outer and inner rings 26, 26 'of the spring base 20 rest on the spring plate 38. The middle part 24, in which the spring wire 22 is received, is located at a distance s3 (see. 4 ) to the spring plate 38. Both extensions 32, 32' of the rings 26, 26' (sides of the protective hood) are upwards when open (see, for example). 1a) and are inclined towards the spring end coil when closed. There is an opening between them that is at least the size of the wire diameter.

By pressing the middle part 24 onto the spring base 20, the middle part 24 and both sides of the protective hood 26, 26' move in the direction of the movement arrows 36 (see Fig. 1b) . The middle part 24 lowers down to the spring plate 38. Since the middle part 24 is connected to the annular extensions 26, 26' via side walls 28, 28', the side walls 28, 28' pull the heads 32, 32' of the annular extensions 26, 26' downwards. Due to the elasticity of the material of the spring base and the greater wall thickness of the annular extensions 26, 26', the heads 32, 32' of the extensions lower in an arc in the direction of the spring wire axis until they collide or overlap one another or predominantly enclose the spring end winding area.

When closed, the middle part 24 is lowered down to the spring plate 38. As long as the spring force acts on the spring base 20, the protective hood remains closed and prevents dirt from penetrating. In addition, such as in 2 shown a mechanical connection can be made as soon as the spring pad is closed. Due to the circular shape of the spring base and thus of the inner and outer rings, radial compression (outside) and expansion (inside) of the extensions can occur when the extension heads 32, 32 'are lowered. These would hinder or even prevent the protective cover from closing automatically. This can be counteracted if the extensions are not continuous radially, but are divided into several segments. On the outside there are gaps 46 between the segments, so that the segments only touch or partially overlap laterally when the protective hood is completely closed. Inside, the segments can accordingly overlap in the open state, so that the degree of overlap in the closed state is reduced (not shown). Additionally or alternatively, the material of the closure tab can be designed to be stretchable, so that the closure tab can be lowered outwards even without segmentation. Such a spring base can be used for different wire diameters.

6b shows the corresponding top view of the closed, curved, self-closing channel 20 with an inserted curved elongated solid body 22. The head points 32, 32 'of the two closure tabs 26, 26' meet in the middle. Continuation points 52 indicate that the curved self-closing channel can also continue beyond the 180° circular arc shown. In the example of a coil spring, the self-closing channel 20 can advantageously span a circular arc or generally a partial ring (this does not include round shapes, but, for example, oval shapes) between 90° and 359°.

Furthermore shows 6b In addition, there is a closing element 54 on the front side of the self-closing channel. The channel is thus protected from foreign body penetration on the front side. The closure element 54 can be, for example, a separate closure cap or a closure that is firmly manufactured with the self-closing channel.

Although some aspects have been described in connection with a device, it is understood that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, so that a block or a component of a device is also to be understood as a corresponding method step or as a feature of a method step. Analogously, aspects that have been described in connection with or as a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block or detail or feature of a corresponding device.

The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. It will be understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will occur to others skilled in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the invention be limited only by the scope of the following claims and not by the specific details presented from the description and explanation of the exemplary embodiments herein.

List of reference symbols:

20

self-closing channel

22

elongated solid

24

Basic element

26

Closing tab

28

web

30

foot point

32

Head point

34

Transition edge

36

Movement arrows

38

document

40

Connection partner

42

Connection partner

44

Fasteners

46

notch

48

Transition from bridge to head point

50

rejuvenation

52

Continuation points

54

Closing element

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was 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 102020205313 A1 [0004]
• DE 102018214797 B3 [0006]

Claims (16)

Self-closing channel (20) for receiving an elongated solid body (22) to protect the elongated solid body from foreign bodies penetrating into the channel (20) with the following features: a base element (24) which forms a support for the elongated solid body (22); a closure tab which is mechanically connected to the base element (24) in such a way that a head point (32) of the closure tab (26) opposite the base point (30) is formed by a relative movement of the base element (24) relative to a foot point (30) of the closure tab (26). executes shutter movement, wherein the closure tab (26) is designed to close the self-closing channel (20) after the closure movement in such a way that the self-closing channel (20) - completely encloses the elongated solid body (22); or - At least predominantly encloses the elongated solid body (22) and a transition edge (34) between the self-closing channel (20) and the elongated solid body (22) rests firmly on the elongated solid body (22). Self-closing channel (20) according to Claim 1 , wherein the closure tab (26) is designed to carry out the closure movement when the relative movement is carried out by pressure on the support for the elongated solid body (22) of the base element. Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the self-closing channel (20) in the assembled state rests with the base point (30) on a base (38), the base (38) being formed when pressure is applied to the support to apply a counterforce for the elongated solid body (22) in the direction of the base (38), which enables the support to move relative to the base point (30) in the direction of the base (38). Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base element (24) is mechanically connected to the head point (32) of the closure tab (26) by means of a web (28), so that the web, through the relative movement of the base element to the Foot point, the head point (32) moves, in particular the head point (32) moves in the direction of the relative movement. Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a transition of the web (28) to the head point (32) of the closure tab (26) has the absence of a tip. Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a size of the closure tab (26) is selected such that there is a projection of a volume of the self-closing channel that the elongated solid (22) is allowed to fill when the elongated solid (22) is on rests on the base element (24), onto the closure tab (26), which lies completely within the closure tab (26). Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure tab (26) has a taper (50) between the base point (30) and the head point (32). Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the self-closing channel (20) has a curvature to accommodate a longitudinally curved elongate solid (22); wherein the closure tab (26) has notches through the head point (32) in the longitudinal direction of the self-closing channel to enable improved closure of the curved channel. Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the self-closing channel (20) is designed to rest on a base (38); wherein the base element (24) has a connection partner (40) which is designed to enter into a mechanical connection with a corresponding connection partner (42) of the base (38) after the base element (24) has the relative movement relative to the base point (30) of the closure tab (26) so that the base element (24) is mechanically fixed in its end position. Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the self-closing channel (20) has a further closure tab (26), the further closure tab (26) being mechanically connected to the base element (24) on the side facing away from the closure tab (26). is connected in that by a relative movement of the base element relative to a foot point (30) of the further closure tab, a head point (32) of the further closure tab (26) opposite the base point (30) carries out a closure movement; wherein the further closure tab (26) is designed together with the closure tab (26) to close the self-closing channel (20) after the closure movement in such a way that the self-closing channel (20) completely encloses the elongated solid body (22); or - At least predominantly encloses the elongated solid body (22) and a transition edge (34) between the self-closing channel (20) and the elongated solid body (22) rests firmly on the elongated solid body (22). Self-closing channel (20) according to Claim 10 , wherein the closure tab (26) and the further closure tab (26) overlap in contact with one another in order to completely enclose the elongated solid body (22). Self-closing channel (20) according to Claim 11 , wherein the closure tab (26) and the further closure tab (26) have mutually corresponding connecting elements (44) in order to obtain a mechanical connection between the closure tabs Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the self-closing channel (20) is part of a spring base for a painted coil spring and wherein the elongated solid body (22) is an end turn region of the painted coil spring. Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an end face of the self-closing channel has a closure element (54) in order to protect the channel (20) from frontal penetration of the foreign body. Self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a side of the channel facing away from an end face of the self-closing channel has one or more sealing lips to protect the elongated solid against ingress of foreign objects from this side. Method for closing an elongated solid in the self-closing channel (20) according to one of the preceding claims with the following steps: a) inserting the elongated solid body onto the base element (24) of the self-closing channel; b) Exerting a compressive force on the elongated solid body (22) in the direction of the base element, so that the base element (24) is pressed down and the closure tab (26) carries out the closure movement.

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