EP0306381A1 - Article provided with elastic joints rigidifying themselves under tension - Google Patents

Article provided with elastic joints rigidifying themselves under tension Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0306381A1
EP0306381A1 EP88402083A EP88402083A EP0306381A1 EP 0306381 A1 EP0306381 A1 EP 0306381A1 EP 88402083 A EP88402083 A EP 88402083A EP 88402083 A EP88402083 A EP 88402083A EP 0306381 A1 EP0306381 A1 EP 0306381A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
elements
elastic properties
article according
articulation
elastic
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP88402083A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0306381B1 (en
Inventor
Dominique Delamour
Olivier Rodi
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
CHENE, RICHARD
Delamour Dominique
Rodi Olivier
Original Assignee
Genus International
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Priority claimed from FR8711592A external-priority patent/FR2619361B1/en
Application filed by Genus International filed Critical Genus International
Priority to AT88402083T priority Critical patent/ATE84269T1/en
Publication of EP0306381A1 publication Critical patent/EP0306381A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0306381B1 publication Critical patent/EP0306381B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D11/00—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of plastics material
    • B65D11/18—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of plastics material collapsible, i.e. with walls hinged together or detachably connected
    • B65D11/1833—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of plastics material collapsible, i.e. with walls hinged together or detachably connected whereby all side walls are hingedly connected to the base panel
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
    • B65D1/22—Boxes or like containers with side walls of substantial depth for enclosing contents
    • B65D1/225—Collapsible boxes

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to parts or articles of the type comprising at least two rigid elements each extending substantially in the same plane, means of articulation of these two elements between them between a first position where these two elements form a first angle between them (this can in particular mean that the two elements are substantially in the same plane) and a second position in abutment against each other where these two elements form a second angle between them and, means for blocking these elements l 'relative to each other in the second position.
  • housings for electronic equipment such as housings for microcomputers housings for HI-FI equipment, housings for cameras.
  • archive boxes made up of semi-flexible, semi-rigid plastic plates linked together.
  • the articulation of the opening part with the cardboard storage box is generally constituted by a simple thinning between two plates.
  • a fastening tab retains the opening part (generally a section of the housing) in the folded position on the housing when it is closed.
  • Such a device has several drawbacks.
  • the rigidity of the housing is not good, which leads to its deformation as soon as it is a little too loaded.
  • the joint is fragile and may eventually break.
  • boxes containing electronic equipment are designed quite differently. They are made from non-articulated removable plates, fixed to each other during assembly by screws or any other equivalent means.
  • the invention aims to provide articles of the above-defined type which meet the requirements of practice better than those previously known, in particular in that they allow an improved design of a single-piece case made of composite material, for example for electronic equipment, in that they allow easy storage and optimized transport of folding articles of great solidity, and in that they are easy to assemble and manufacture.
  • the articulation of the present invention allows an excellent take-up of the clearances between the different elements and therefore, to within manufacturing tolerances, a relative positioning of the elements relative to each other very precise with an excellent ability to repetition. In other words, after each operation of the joint, the elements return precisely and systematically to the same place, in the locked position.
  • the invention proposes in particular an article of the type defined above, characterized in that the articulation means comprise a part endowed with elastic properties connecting said elements to each other, said articulation means being arranged to cause said part endowed with elastic properties to occupy a relaxed position when the two elements occupy their first position and a tensioned position when the two elements are locked relative to each other in their second position, such so that the part endowed with stretched elastic properties ensures good articulation rigidity of the two elements with one another when the locking means are engaged.
  • the part with elastic properties is a piece rigidly fixed, for example removably, to the two elements.
  • the part with elastic properties and the two rigid elements form a single piece, made of the same material.
  • the component part of the two rigid elements and the part endowed with elastic properties is made of thermoplastic elastomer material, the elastic properties of which can be varied and which is of the type known under the trademark HYTREL.
  • the part with elastic properties is an elastic part, for example rubber.
  • the part with elastic properties is a metal part, for example in the form of a wavy tongue forming a spring.
  • the articulation means are arranged to gradually tension the elastic part to an extreme point of relative tension, then release this tension to help the arrival in the locked position of the two rigid elements against each other .
  • the part with elastic properties is released when the two elements are substantially flat in the same plane and stretched when the two elements form an angle less than 150 ° between them.
  • the locking means comprise at least one intermediate locking notch and the articulation means are arranged to cause the elastic part to occupy an intermediate tensioned position when the two elements adopt an intermediate position between the first position and the second, corresponding position to the intermediate lock.
  • the articulation means comprise a projection, for example elongated, forming a ball joint, integral with one of the elements, and a groove capable of cooperating with said projection, integral with the other element.
  • the part endowed with elastic properties can then be arranged to bear on said elongated projection during its tensioning, or be inserted in a reserved notch in said protruding part so as to allow the passage of an extreme point of tension. relative of said part with elastic properties and then a relaxation thereof to help bring the two rigid elements together with each other before locking.
  • the article comprises at least five elements substantially in the form of rectangular plates comprising a central element and four peripheral elements connected to each side of said central element by the articulation means so that in the folded position of the peripheral elements relative to to the central element, the assembly constitutes a substantially parallelepipedic housing.
  • the elements are made of rigid plastic (thermoplastic or thermosetting polymer), for example reinforced with glass fibers or synthetic fibers.
  • the plastic is terpolymer of acrylonitrile butadiene and styrene (ABS).
  • ABS terpolymer of acrylonitrile butadiene and styrene
  • the part or parts with elastic properties are made of elastomer (natural or synthetic rubber), for example GRS synthetic rubber based on butadiene and styrene.
  • the rubber can also include silicone or any other element as is known from the prior art.
  • the locking means of one element on the other are constituted by clips, lockable and unlockable by simple pressure.
  • the invention also provides a plastic case for electronic circuits comprising a base element and four lateral elements and means for fixing each lateral element to a respective side of the base element, characterized in that said fixing means comprise means of articulation of each lateral element with said base element between a flat position where all the elements are substantially in the same plane and a folded position in abutment of each lateral element against the base element to form the housing, in that they comprise means for blocking each lateral element with respect to the base element in these folded positions of respective stop to keep the housing in the closed position, and in that said articulation means consist of pieces of elastic material connecting each of the lateral elements respectively to one side of the base element, said articulation means being arranged to stretching said pieces between a rest position of said pieces when the lateral elements are flat with the base element and a tensioned position of said pieces parts when the lateral elements are locked with respect to the base element in the closed position of the housing, so that the stretched elastic parts ensure good rigidity of the articulations between each of the four lateral elements and the base
  • the lateral elements and the base are made of thermoplastic polymer of the molded ABS type and the parts of elastic material are of synthetic elastomer, of the synthetic rubber type based on butadiene and styrene overmolded in spaces previously provided in the plastic elements with which said elastic parts are welded during said overmolding.
  • FIG. 1 shows the articulation means 1 of an article comprising two elements, a "male” element 2 (comprising a projecting part 2a) and a “female” element 3 (comprising a recessed part 3a) in the folded position and in abutment against each other, the elements 2 and 3 forming an angle between them, for example 90 °.
  • Figure 3 shows the same elements 2 and 3 flat. These two elements are rigid and each extend substantially in the same plane.
  • the articulation means 1 additionally comprise a piece 4 of elastic material rigidly fixed at 5 and 6 to the two elements which it connects to one another.
  • the piece 4 of elastic material occupies a relaxed position ( Figure 3).
  • Figure 3 When the two elements are in the folded position, and when they are blocked with respect to each other by blocking means (not shown in FIGS. 1 and 3), the part 4 occupies a taut position so that 'It ensures good rigidity of the articulation means 1 of the two elements 2 and 3 between them.
  • the piece 4 of elastic material is flexible and of a certain extensibility.
  • the hardness of the elastic piece can for example be of the order of 90 shores and pass to 100 shores with an elongation of 3% when it is tensioned (for example with the order of 30 g pressure).
  • the three parameters of hardness, extension and value of the pressure exerted can be varied, as desired.
  • FIGS. 1 and 3 a welding type connection mode has been shown between the elements 2 and 3 and the part 4. They are then all made of plastic material, for example ABS polymer for elements 2 and 3 and in elastomer containing butadiene and styrene for the part 4. This is overmolded in the elements 2 and 3 having definitive solidification of the latter.
  • Figure 1 there are shown channels 7 in dotted lines before allowing the elastomer to flow.
  • Figure 2 shows a variant where the parts 2 and 3 are made of plastic or other material (aluminum, steel, etc.).
  • the elastomer part 4 can no longer be fixed by welding as in the case of FIG. 1 with the elements 2 and 3.
  • Parts 8 and 9 provided with notches 10 into which the ends 10a are inserted of part 4, said notches, being for example corrugated to favor attachment, are provided and fixed to elements 2 and 3 by means known per se (not shown).
  • the part 4 can also be fixed to the elements 2 and 3 by gluing or any other fixing means known to those skilled in the art.
  • Figure 2a shows a variant where the part 4a is constituted by a corrugated metal tongue.
  • the tongue can then be fixed on the parts 2a and 3a, if they are also metallic, by welding or any other known means.
  • the use of a part with elastic properties which is metallic makes it possible to subject the temperatures and difficult conditions to the joint without damaging it. This arrangement has significant advantages and in particular allows particularly interesting applications in the automotive industry.
  • Figure 4 shows a variant of the joint of the invention or two locking positions are possible.
  • the element 3 comprises a tongue 3b capable of cooperating with a first notch 2b or a second notch 2c of the male element 2.
  • FIG. 4 shows the application of the articulation to a window whose element 2 is part of the frame and element 3 of the opening. Spaces 2d and 3c are provided in the body of the elements to allow a certain elasticity and relieves elements relative to each other.
  • Figure 5 shows a variant of the invention where the rest position of the elastic piece is provided when the elements 2 and 3 form an angle between them, the tense position being obtained when the elements are flat in the same plane.
  • FIG. 6 shows a housing for electronic circuits according to the invention.
  • This housing comprises a base element 10 in the form of a plate on which electronic circuits are fixed permanently or detachably.
  • FIG. 6 shows, for information only, an electronic card 11, a chip housing 12, vertical supports 13, etc.
  • the housing also includes lateral elements 14 connected by means of articulation means according to the invention, shown diagrammatically at 15, to the base element 10, on each of the sides of said base element.
  • the elements 14 are capable of being folded around the articulation means 15 to come to bear and fix themselves by means of blocking means 16a, 16b in the folded position relative to the base element and thus constitute the housing. of substantially parallelepiped shape. All the locking means have not been shown so as not to overload the figure.
  • the elements 14 comprise input-output plugs 14a making it possible to communicate the interior of the housing with external connection cables. They also advantageously comprise either own electronic circuits 17, or an interface keyboard 18 comprising push buttons 19 or buttons operating by elastic contacts 20. It is also possible to incorporate a screen 21 or any other device known per se into these lateral elements. that are found in and on electronic boxes, whether boxes for microcomputers, HI-FI systems, etc.
  • the articulation means 15 comprise a part 16 of elastic material rigidly fixed to the lateral elements of on the one hand and on the base on the other. A particularly advantageous method of attachment is that described above, the elements being of ABS type thermoplastic material and the part of elastic material being overmolded on the base part constituted by all of the five elements which can be seen in FIG.
  • thermosetting plastic constituting the rigid elements
  • elastomeric material constituting the part 16 of the articulation 15.
  • the latter can advantageously come, by paths 22 previously prepared in the initial mold, to enter reservations made in the various elements to constitute a part of the keyboard 18 actuatable by pressure of one of the side elements.
  • FIG. 7 shows different arrangements of control buttons, the parts 23, 24, 25 being of hard material and the parts shown at 26 being of softer material: elastomer.
  • the constitution of this type of keyboard being known per se, will not be detailed in more detail.
  • corner pieces 27 are shown which are integral with the base plate 10 and on which the lateral elements 14 are snapped or blocked.
  • the locking elements 16a, 16b are shown schematically and can for example be constituted by small balls coming to be blocked in holes whose entry diameter is slightly smaller.
  • Figure 9 gives in perspective and partially an idea of the external appearance of the housing when it is in the folded position.
  • Figure 11 shows in perspective and in partial view two elements that can constitute a table or a stool.
  • the articulation means are constituted by an elongated projection forming a ball joint 32 and a groove 33 suitable for cooperating with the projection, one belonging to the element 31 and the other to the element 30.
  • the part 34 in elastic material ensures the connection and fixing of two elements relative to each other. In the folded position, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the tensioning of this part ensures good rigidity of the assembly.
  • Locking means 35 comprising for example means 36 for progressive tensioning of the part 34, for example by rotation of a thumb wheel 37, are shown in the figures.
  • Other tensioning and blocking means can be used and are within the reach of those skilled in the art.
  • the thickness e of this part at the level of the attachment to one of the elements is greater than the thickness e ′ than l 'can be measured in the middle part of the part at the ball joint 32 of the element 31.
  • Means 38, constituted for example by pins or any other means preventing the sliding of the part 34 relative to the elements 30 and 31 are provided in the two longitudinal notches 39 of the elements 30 and 31 in which the part 34 is inserted to link said elements to each other.
  • Figures 12 and 13 show a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention where the part endowed with elastic properties and the two rigid elements connected to each other by said part are constituted by the same part.
  • the single piece used as articulation according to an embodiment of the present invention is made of thermoplastic elastomer of the type known under the trademark HYTREL registered by Du Pont de Nemours for its technical thermoplastic elastomers.
  • This type of thermoplastic elastomer combines a large number of characteristics sought in rubber and flexible high-performance plastics. It is very tenacious and offers exceptional resilience, high resistance to creep, impact and fatigue as well as to repeated bending. Excellent flexibility at low temperatures and good retention of these properties at high temperatures are also among the important qualities of thermoplastic elastomers of this type. It also resists deterioration from many industrial chemicals, oils and solvents.
  • thermoplastics in particular injection molding, extrusion, extrusion blow molding, rotational molding and melt casting, make it possible to easily manufacture high performance parts with the shapes that we want.
  • the processing is carried out at temperatures between 170 ° C and 250 ° C, for example of the order of 200 ° C.
  • thermoplastics of the type of the Hytrel it is thus possible to produce a joint of the type of that of the article according to the invention in a single piece, thus replacing multiple pieces of plastic, wood or metal connected by a piece of elastic material such as rubber.
  • FIGS. 12 and 13 The article partially represented in FIGS. 12 and 13 is essentially formed from two elements or portions: a "male" portion 2 ′ (comprising a projecting part 2′a) and a "female” portion 3 ′ (comprising a portion hollow 3′a).
  • Figure 12 shows in the folded position and in abutment against each other, the elements or portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ forming an angle between them, for example 90 °.
  • Figure 13 shows the same portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ flat. These two elements are rigid and each extend substantially in the same plane.
  • the articulation means 1 ′ further comprise an elastic portion 4 ′ secured to the portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ which it connects to one another.
  • the portions 2 ′, 3 ′ and 4 ′ constitute one and the same piece, unique, but having, for the portions 2 ′ and 3 ′, a high rigidity and hardness while the portion 4 ′ is elastic and extensible.
  • the elastic portion 4 ′ occupies a relaxed position (FIG. 13).
  • the portions 4 ′ occupies a stretched position so that it ensures good rigidity of the articulation means 1 of the two portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ between them.
  • the elastic 4 ′ portion is flexible and of a certain extensibility.
  • the hardness of the elastic portion can for example be of the order of 80 shores and pass to 100 shores with an elongation of 3% when it is tensioned (for example with around 30 g. pressure). But, as we have seen and depending on the application, we can vary the three parameters hardness, extension and value of the pressure exerted as desired by varying the composition and thickness of the thermoplastic elastomer , of the Hytrel type, used.
  • FIGS. 14 and 15 show another advantageous embodiment in which the part endowed with elastic properties, for example a rubber piece 4 lake is arranged to occupy a position beyond the axis of rotation Ox of the joint, in the folded position (fig. 15).
  • the elastic part passes through a maximum tension, which decreases once the plane of said part 4 ⁇ has exceeded the axis Ox, which helps bring it into the locking position of the two elements 3 ⁇ and 2 ⁇ with each other.
  • the invention is in no way limited to those of these modes of application which have been more especially envisaged; on the contrary, it embraces all variants, in particular those where: the elements extending substantially in the same plane include protuberances integrated into said element substantially perpendicular to the plane in number, volume and various dimensions, - the elastic connecting piece between two same elements is fragmented, consisting of several parts spaced from each other, - the elastic part is not fixed to the same element over its entire length but only on part of it, - the elements linked together are made of different materials, - the elements can adopt, thanks to intermediate locking means, several positions intermediates corresponding to different tensions of the piece of elastic material between the relaxed position or at rest and a tensed position called extreme, which is not necessarily the position where the tension is the greatest of said different tensions.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
  • Casings For Electric Apparatus (AREA)
  • Pivots And Pivotal Connections (AREA)
  • Orthopedics, Nursing, And Contraception (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)

Abstract

Article comprising at least two rigid elements (2, 3), articulation means for these two elements and means for locking these elements together in a folded position. The articulation means (1) comprise a part (4) having elastic properties, connecting these two elements to each other, the said articulation means being arranged in order to cause the part having elastic properties to occupy a relaxed position when the two elements are not locked together and a stretched position when the two elements are locked together. Good rigidity of the mutual articulation of the two elements is thus achieved when the locking means are engaged. <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne les pièces ou articles du type comportant au moins deux éléments rigides s'étendant chacun sensiblement dans un même plan, des moyens d'articulation de ces deux éléments entre eux entre une première position où ces deux éléments forment un premier angle entre eux (cela peut notamment signifier que les deux éléments sont sensiblement dans le même plan) et une deuxième position en butée l'un contre l'autre où ces deux éléments forment un deuxième angle entre eux et, des moyens de blocage de ces éléments l'un par rapport à l'autre dans la deuxième position.The present invention relates to parts or articles of the type comprising at least two rigid elements each extending substantially in the same plane, means of articulation of these two elements between them between a first position where these two elements form a first angle between them (this can in particular mean that the two elements are substantially in the same plane) and a second position in abutment against each other where these two elements form a second angle between them and, means for blocking these elements l 'relative to each other in the second position.

Elle trouve une application particulièrement importante, bien que non exclusive, dans le domaine des boîtiers pour matériel électronique tels que boîtiers pour micro-ordinateurs boîtiers de matériel HI-FI, boîtiers d'appareil photographique ou de caméra.It finds a particularly important, although not exclusive, application in the field of housings for electronic equipment such as housings for microcomputers housings for HI-FI equipment, housings for cameras.

D'autres domaines d'application, également particulièrement intéressants, sont ceux des articles de mobilier pliable et ceux de tous articles comportant un ouvrant et un dormant, l'ouvrant devant par exemple s'articuler et se refermer de façon étanche sur le dormant (fenêtre, porte de réfrigérateur, boîtes à gants de voiture, etc..).Other fields of application, also particularly interesting, are those of foldable furniture articles and those of all articles comprising an opening and a frame, the opening having for example to be articulated and closed in a sealed manner on the frame ( window, refrigerator door, car glove boxes, etc.).

On connait déjà des articles du type ci-dessus défini comportant des éléments articulés les uns par rapport aux autres.Articles of the type defined above are already known comprising elements articulated with respect to each other.

Il existe par exemple des cartons d'archives constitués de plaques en matière plastique mi-souple mi-rigide reliées entre elles. L'articulation de la partie ouvrante avec le boîtier de rangement du carton est en général constituée par un simple amincissement entre deux plaques. Une languette de fixation retient en position repliée la partie ouvrante (en général une tranche du boîtier) sur le boîtier lorsqu'il est fermé.There are, for example, archive boxes made up of semi-flexible, semi-rigid plastic plates linked together. The articulation of the opening part with the cardboard storage box is generally constituted by a simple thinning between two plates. A fastening tab retains the opening part (generally a section of the housing) in the folded position on the housing when it is closed.

Un tel dispositif présente plusieurs inconvé­nients. La rigidité du boîtier n'est pas bonne, ce qui entraîne sa déformation dès qu'il est un peu trop chargé. L'articulation est fragile et risque à terme de se casser.Such a device has several drawbacks. The rigidity of the housing is not good, which leads to its deformation as soon as it is a little too loaded. The joint is fragile and may eventually break.

Enfin, son utilisation en tant que boîtier est limitée. En particulier, il n'est pas possible de concevoir un tel boîtier s'ouvrant sur toutes ses faces et sur lesquelles serait par exemple fixé du matériel électronique.Finally, its use as a housing is limited. In particular, it is not possible to design such a box opening on all its faces and on which electronic equipment would for example be fixed.

Actuellement, les boîtiers contenant du matériel électronique sont d'ailleurs conçus tout à fait différemment. Ils sont fabriqués à partir de plaques amovibles non articulées, fixées les unes aux autres lors du montage par des vis ou tout autre moyen équivalent.Currently, the boxes containing electronic equipment are designed quite differently. They are made from non-articulated removable plates, fixed to each other during assembly by screws or any other equivalent means.

Une telle conception permet d'assurer une rigidité et une solidité suffisante au boîtier mais nécessite la gestion d'un stock important de pièces de rechange correspondant à chacune des faces et un temps de montage assez long pour le fabricant. Avec cette conception, il existe de plus des risques gènants du type perte d'une vis de fixation dans le boîtier lors du montage.Such a design makes it possible to ensure sufficient rigidity and solidity for the case but requires the management of a large stock of spare parts corresponding to each of the faces and a fairly long assembly time for the manufacturer. With this design, there are also annoying risks such as the loss of a fixing screw in the housing during assembly.

Dans le domaine des meubles comportant des éléments rigides s'étendant chacun dans un même plan, les articulations connues ne permettent pas de mise à plat complète des éléments constitutifs articulés les uns aux autres sauf pour des meubles (type table de bridge) de faible solidité.In the field of furniture comprising rigid elements each extending in the same plane, the known articulations do not allow complete flattening of the constituent elements articulated to each other except for furniture (bridge table type) of low strength .

Le stockage et le transport de tels meubles nécessitent donc des volumes importants et entraînent de ce fait des coûts importants.The storage and transport of such furniture therefore requires large volumes and therefore entails significant costs.

L'invention vise à fournir des articles du type ci-dessus défini répondant mieux que ceux antérieurement connus aux exigences de la pratique, notamment en ce qu'ils permettent une conception améliorée de boîtier d'une seule pièce en matériau composite, par exemple pour matériel électronique, en ce qu'ils autorisent un stockage aisé et un transport optimisé d'articles pliants de grande solidité, et en ce qu'ils sont de montage et de fabrication aisée. En particulier, l'articulation de la présente invention autorise un excellent rattrapage des jeux entre les différents éléments et donc, aux tolérances de fabrication près, un positionnement relatif des éléments l'un par rapport à l'autre très précis avec une excellente aptitude à la répétition. Autrement dit, après chaque fonctionnement de l'articulation, les éléments reviennent précisemment et systématiquement à la même place, en position bloquée.The invention aims to provide articles of the above-defined type which meet the requirements of practice better than those previously known, in particular in that they allow an improved design of a single-piece case made of composite material, for example for electronic equipment, in that they allow easy storage and optimized transport of folding articles of great solidity, and in that they are easy to assemble and manufacture. In particular, the articulation of the present invention allows an excellent take-up of the clearances between the different elements and therefore, to within manufacturing tolerances, a relative positioning of the elements relative to each other very precise with an excellent ability to repetition. In other words, after each operation of the joint, the elements return precisely and systematically to the same place, in the locked position.

Dans ce but, l'invention propose notamment un article du type ci-dessus défini, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'articulation comportent une partie dotée de propriétés élastiques reliant lesdits éléments l'un à l'autre, lesdits moyens d'articulation étant agencés pour faire occuper à ladite partie dotée de propriétés élastiques une position relachée lorsque les deux éléments occupent leur première position et une position sous tension lorsque les deux éléments sont bloqués l'un par rapport à l'autre dans leur seconde position, de telle sorte que la partie dotée de propriétés élastiques tendue assure une bonne rigidité d'articulation des deux éléments entre eux lorsque les moyens de blocage sont enclenchés.To this end, the invention proposes in particular an article of the type defined above, characterized in that the articulation means comprise a part endowed with elastic properties connecting said elements to each other, said articulation means being arranged to cause said part endowed with elastic properties to occupy a relaxed position when the two elements occupy their first position and a tensioned position when the two elements are locked relative to each other in their second position, such so that the part endowed with stretched elastic properties ensures good articulation rigidity of the two elements with one another when the locking means are engaged.

Dans des modes de réalisation avantageux, on a recours en outre à l'une et/ou à l'autre des dispositions suivantes :
- La partie dotée de propriétés élastiques est une pièce fixée rigidement, par exemple de façon amovible, aux deux éléments.
- La partie dotée de propriétés élastiques et les deux éléments rigides forment une seule et même pièce, constituée par un même matériau.
- La pièce constitutive des deux éléments rigides et de la partie dotée de propriétés élastiques est en matériau élastomère thermoplastique dont on peut faire varier les propriétés élastiques et qui est du type connu sous la marque HYTREL.
- La partie dotée de propriétés élastiques est une pièce élastique, par exemple en caoutchouc.
- La partie dotée de propriétés élastiques est une pièce métallique, par exemple en forme de languette ondulée formant ressort.
- Les moyens d'articulation sont agencés pour mettre en tension progresivement la partie élastique jusqu'à un point extrême de tension relative, puis relacher cette tension pour aider l'arrivée en position de blocage des deux éléments rigides l'un contre l'autre.
- La partie dotée de propriétés élastiques est relachée lorsque les deux éléments sont sensiblement à plat dans le même plan et tendue lorsque les deux éléments forment un angle inférieur à 150° entre eux.
- Les moyens de blocage comportent au moins un cran de blocage intermédiaire et les moyens d'articulation sont agencés pour faire occuper à la partie élastique une position tendue intermédiaire lorsque les deux éléments adoptent une position intermédiaire entre la première position et la seconde position, correspondant au blocage intermédiaire.
- Les moyens d'articulation comprennent une saillie, par exemple allongée, formant rotule, solidaire de l'un des éléments, et une rainure propre à coopérer avec ladite saillie, solidaire de l'autre élément. La partie dotée de propriétés élastiques peut alors être agencée pour prendre appui sur ladite saillie allongée lors de sa mise en tension, ou s'insérer dans une encoche réservée dans ladite partie en saillie de façon à permettre le passage d'un point extrême de tension relative de ladite partie dotée de propriétés élastiques puis une détente de celle-ci pour aider le rapproche­ment, avant blocage, des deux éléments rigides l'un avec l'autre.
- L'article comporte au moins cinq éléments sensiblement en forme de plaques rectangulaires comprenant un élément central et quatre éléments périphériques reliés à chacun des côtés dudit élément central par les moyens d'articulation de telle sorte qu'en position repliée des éléments périphériques par rapport à l'élément central, l'ensemble constitue un boîtier sensiblement parallélépipédique.
- Les éléments sont en matière plastique rigide (polymère thermoplastique ou thermodurcissable), par exemple armée avec des fibres de verre ou des fibres synthétiques.
- La matière plastique est du terpolymère d'acrilonitrile de butadiène et de styrène (ABS).
- La ou les parties dotées de propriétés élastiques sont en élastomère (caoutchouc naturel ou synthétique), par exemple du caoutchouc synthétique GRS à base de butadiène et de styrène. Le caoutchouc peut également comporter du silicone ou tout autre élément comme cela est connu de l'art antérieur.
- Les moyens de blocage d'un élément sur l'autre sont constitués par des clips, verrouillables et déverrouillables par simple pression.In advantageous embodiments, use is also made of one and / or the other of the following arrangements:
- The part with elastic properties is a piece rigidly fixed, for example removably, to the two elements.
- The part with elastic properties and the two rigid elements form a single piece, made of the same material.
- The component part of the two rigid elements and the part endowed with elastic properties is made of thermoplastic elastomer material, the elastic properties of which can be varied and which is of the type known under the trademark HYTREL.
- The part with elastic properties is an elastic part, for example rubber.
- The part with elastic properties is a metal part, for example in the form of a wavy tongue forming a spring.
- The articulation means are arranged to gradually tension the elastic part to an extreme point of relative tension, then release this tension to help the arrival in the locked position of the two rigid elements against each other .
- The part with elastic properties is released when the two elements are substantially flat in the same plane and stretched when the two elements form an angle less than 150 ° between them.
- The locking means comprise at least one intermediate locking notch and the articulation means are arranged to cause the elastic part to occupy an intermediate tensioned position when the two elements adopt an intermediate position between the first position and the second, corresponding position to the intermediate lock.
- The articulation means comprise a projection, for example elongated, forming a ball joint, integral with one of the elements, and a groove capable of cooperating with said projection, integral with the other element. The part endowed with elastic properties can then be arranged to bear on said elongated projection during its tensioning, or be inserted in a reserved notch in said protruding part so as to allow the passage of an extreme point of tension. relative of said part with elastic properties and then a relaxation thereof to help bring the two rigid elements together with each other before locking.
- The article comprises at least five elements substantially in the form of rectangular plates comprising a central element and four peripheral elements connected to each side of said central element by the articulation means so that in the folded position of the peripheral elements relative to to the central element, the assembly constitutes a substantially parallelepipedic housing.
- The elements are made of rigid plastic (thermoplastic or thermosetting polymer), for example reinforced with glass fibers or synthetic fibers.
- The plastic is terpolymer of acrylonitrile butadiene and styrene (ABS).
- The part or parts with elastic properties are made of elastomer (natural or synthetic rubber), for example GRS synthetic rubber based on butadiene and styrene. The rubber can also include silicone or any other element as is known from the prior art.
- The locking means of one element on the other are constituted by clips, lockable and unlockable by simple pressure.

L'invention propose également un boîtier en matière plastique pour circuits électroniques comprenant un élément socle et quatre éléments latéraux et des moyens de fixation de chaque élément latéral à un côté respectif de l'élément socle, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de fixation comportent des moyens d'articulation de chaque élément latéral avec ledit élément socle entre une position à plat où tous les éléments sont sensiblement dans le même plan et une position repliée en butée de chaque élément latéral contre l'élément socle pour former le boîtier, en ce qu'ils comportent des moyens de blocage de chaque élément latéral par rapport à l'élément socle dans ces positions repliées de butée respectives pour maintenir le boîtier en position fermée, et en ce que lesdits moyens d'articulation sont constitués par des pièces en matériau élastique reliant chacun des éléments latéraux respectivement à un côté de l'élément socle, lesdits moyens d'articulation étant agencés pour tendre lesdites pièces entre une position au repos desdites pièces lorsque les éléments latéraux sont à plat avec l'élément socle et une position en tension desdites pièces lorsque les éléments latéraux sont bloqués par rapport à l'élément socle dans la position fermée du boîtier, de telle sorte que les pièces élastiques tendues assurent une bonne rigidité des articulations entre chacun des quatre éléments latéraux et l'élément socle lorsque les moyens de blocage sont enclenchés.The invention also provides a plastic case for electronic circuits comprising a base element and four lateral elements and means for fixing each lateral element to a respective side of the base element, characterized in that said fixing means comprise means of articulation of each lateral element with said base element between a flat position where all the elements are substantially in the same plane and a folded position in abutment of each lateral element against the base element to form the housing, in that they comprise means for blocking each lateral element with respect to the base element in these folded positions of respective stop to keep the housing in the closed position, and in that said articulation means consist of pieces of elastic material connecting each of the lateral elements respectively to one side of the base element, said articulation means being arranged to stretching said pieces between a rest position of said pieces when the lateral elements are flat with the base element and a tensioned position of said pieces parts when the lateral elements are locked with respect to the base element in the closed position of the housing, so that the stretched elastic parts ensure good rigidity of the articulations between each of the four lateral elements and the base element when the means of blocking are engaged.

Dans un mode avantageux de réalisation, les éléments latéraux et le socle sont en polymère thermoplastique du type ABS moulé et les pièces en matière élastique sont en élastomère synthétique, du type caoutchouc synthétique à base de butadiène et de styrène surmoulé dans des espaces préalablement ménagés dans les éléments en matière plastique avec lesquels lesdites pièces en matière élastique se soudent lors dudit surmoulage.In an advantageous embodiment, the lateral elements and the base are made of thermoplastic polymer of the molded ABS type and the parts of elastic material are of synthetic elastomer, of the synthetic rubber type based on butadiene and styrene overmolded in spaces previously provided in the plastic elements with which said elastic parts are welded during said overmolding.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui suit d'un mode particulier de réalisation, donné à titre d'exemple non limitatif. La description se réfère aux dessins qui l'accompagnent dans lesquels :

  • - la Figure 1 est une vue partielle de côté d'un article selon l'invention dont la partie dotée de propriétés élastiques est une pièce en matière élastique, en position repliée.
  • - la figure 2 est une vue de côté d'une variante de la figure 1, avec pièce en matière élastique amovi­ble,
  • - la figure 2a est une vue en coupe partielle d'une articulation selon l'invention comportant une pièce élastique métallique en forme de languette ondulée,
  • - la figure 3 est une vue partielle en perspective de l'articulation de la figure 1 en position à plat,
  • - la figure 4 est une vue partielle en perspective d'une variante de l'invention à deux positions de blocage, appliquée à une fenêtre,
  • - la figure 5 est une vue en coupe d'une autre articulation selon l'invention, pour laquelle la partie dotée de propriétés élastiques est sollicitée lorsque les deux éléments rigides sont dans un même plan,
  • - la figure 6 est une vue schématique partielle et en perspective d'un boîtier pour composants électroniques, selon un mode avantageux de réalisation de l'invention,
  • - la figure 7 est une vue en coupe partielle d'une face avec clavier intégré du boîtier de la figure 6,
  • - la figure 8 est une vue en coupe d'un angle de boîtier d'un type applicable au boîtier de la figure 6, faces repliées,
  • - la figure 9 est une vue schématique en perspective de l'angle de la figure 8,
  • - la figure 10 est une vue en coupe latérale d'une articulation selon l'invention, par exemple appliquée à un meuble pliable tel qu'un table.
  • - la figure 11 est une vue partielle en perspective de la partie articulation d'une table selon l'invention.
  • - la figure 12 est une vue partielle de côté d'un article réalisé selon un mode particulier de l'invention, où la partie dotée de propriétés élastiques et les deux éléments rigides sont constitués par une même pièce, en position repliée.
  • - la figure 13 est une vue partielle en perspective de l'articulation de la figure 12 en position à plat.
  • - la figure 14 est une vue en coupe partielle d'une articulation selon un autre mode avantageux de réalisation de l'invention, agencée pour faire passer la pièce élastique par une tension maximale intermédiaire avant blocage, en position à plat.
  • - la figure 15 est une vue en coupe partielle de l'articulation de la figure 14 en position repliée.
The invention will be better understood on reading the following description of a particular mode of embodiment, given by way of nonlimiting example. The description refers to the accompanying drawings in which:
  • - Figure 1 is a partial side view of an article according to the invention, the part with elastic properties is a piece of elastic material, in the folded position.
  • FIG. 2 is a side view of a variant of FIG. 1, with a piece of removable elastic material,
  • FIG. 2a is a partial section view of a joint according to the invention comprising a metallic elastic piece in the form of a wavy tongue,
  • FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of the articulation of FIG. 1 in the flat position,
  • FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of a variant of the invention with two locking positions, applied to a window,
  • FIG. 5 is a sectional view of another articulation according to the invention, for which the part endowed with elastic properties is stressed when the two rigid elements are in the same plane,
  • FIG. 6 is a partial schematic perspective view of a box for electronic components, according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention,
  • FIG. 7 is a partial sectional view of a face with integrated keyboard of the box of FIG. 6,
  • FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a housing angle of a type applicable to the housing of FIG. 6, folded faces,
  • FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the angle of FIG. 8,
  • - Figure 10 is a side sectional view of a hinge according to the invention, for example applied to a foldable piece of furniture such as a table.
  • - Figure 11 is a partial perspective view of the articulation part of a table according to the invention.
  • - Figure 12 is a partial side view of an article produced according to a particular embodiment of the invention, where the part with elastic properties and the two rigid elements are formed by the same part, in the folded position.
  • - Figure 13 is a partial perspective view of the joint of Figure 12 in the flat position.
  • - Figure 14 is a partial sectional view of a joint according to another advantageous embodiment of the invention, arranged to pass the elastic piece by an intermediate maximum tension before locking, in the flat position.
  • - Figure 15 is a partial sectional view of the joint of Figure 14 in the folded position.

La figure 1 montre les moyens d'articulation 1 d'un article comportant deux élements, un élément "mâle" 2 (comprenant une partie en saille 2a) et un élément "femelle" 3 (comprenant une partie en creux 3a) en position repliée et en butée l'un contre l'autre, les éléments 2 et 3 formant un angle entre eux, par exemple 90°.FIG. 1 shows the articulation means 1 of an article comprising two elements, a "male" element 2 (comprising a projecting part 2a) and a "female" element 3 (comprising a recessed part 3a) in the folded position and in abutment against each other, the elements 2 and 3 forming an angle between them, for example 90 °.

La Figure 3 montre les mêmes éléments 2 et 3 à plat. Ces deux éléments sont rigides et s'étendent chacun sensiblement dans un même plan. Les moyens d'articulation 1 comportent de plus une pièce 4 en matériau élastique fixé rigidement en 5 et 6 aux deux éléments qu'elle relié l'un à l'autre.Figure 3 shows the same elements 2 and 3 flat. These two elements are rigid and each extend substantially in the same plane. The articulation means 1 additionally comprise a piece 4 of elastic material rigidly fixed at 5 and 6 to the two elements which it connects to one another.

Lorsque les deux éléments sont sensiblement dans le même plan, la pièce 4 en matériau élastique occupe une position relachée (Figure 3). Lorsque les deux éléments sont en position repliée, et lorsqu'ils sont bloqués l'un par rapport à l'autre par des moyens de blocage (non représentés sur les figures 1 et 3) la pièce 4 occupe une position tendue de telle sorte qu'elle assure une bonne rigidité des moyens d'articulation 1 des deux éléments 2 et 3 entre eux. La pièce 4 en matériau élastique est souple et d'une certaine extensibilité. En position repos, la dureté de la pièce élastique peut par exemple être de l'ordre de 90 shores et passer à 100 shores avec un allongement de 3% lorsqu'elle est mise en tension (par exemple avec de l'ordre de 30 g. de pression). Mais, en fonction de l'application, on pourra faire varier les trois paramètres dureté, extension et valeur de la pression exercée, comme on le souhaite.When the two elements are substantially in the same plane, the piece 4 of elastic material occupies a relaxed position (Figure 3). When the two elements are in the folded position, and when they are blocked with respect to each other by blocking means (not shown in FIGS. 1 and 3), the part 4 occupies a taut position so that 'It ensures good rigidity of the articulation means 1 of the two elements 2 and 3 between them. The piece 4 of elastic material is flexible and of a certain extensibility. In the rest position, the hardness of the elastic piece can for example be of the order of 90 shores and pass to 100 shores with an elongation of 3% when it is tensioned (for example with the order of 30 g pressure). However, depending on the application, the three parameters of hardness, extension and value of the pressure exerted can be varied, as desired.

Sur les figures 1 et 3 on a représenté un mode de liaison type soudure entre les éléments 2 et 3 et la pièce 4. Ils sont alors constitués tous les trois en matière plastique, par exemple en polymère ABS pour les éléments 2 et 3 et en élastomère contenant du butadiène et du styrène pour la pièce 4. Celle-ci est surmoulée dans les éléments 2 et 3 ayant solidification définitive de ces derniers. Sur la figure 1 on a représenté des canaux 7 en pointillé avant permis de couler l'élas­tomère.In FIGS. 1 and 3, a welding type connection mode has been shown between the elements 2 and 3 and the part 4. They are then all made of plastic material, for example ABS polymer for elements 2 and 3 and in elastomer containing butadiene and styrene for the part 4. This is overmolded in the elements 2 and 3 having definitive solidification of the latter. In Figure 1 there are shown channels 7 in dotted lines before allowing the elastomer to flow.

La figure 2 représente une variante où les pièces 2 et 3 sont en matière plastique ou autre matériau (alu, acier, etc..). Dans ce cas, la pièce 4 en élastomère ne peut plus être fixée par soudage comme dans le cas de la figure 1 avec les éléments 2 et 3. Des pièces 8 et 9 munies d'encoches 10 dans lesquelles viennent s'insérer les extrémités 10a de la pièce 4, lesdites encoches, étant par exemple ondulées pour favoriser l'accrochage, sont prévues et fixées aus éléments 2 et 3 par des moyens connus en soi (non représentés).Figure 2 shows a variant where the parts 2 and 3 are made of plastic or other material (aluminum, steel, etc.). In this case, the elastomer part 4 can no longer be fixed by welding as in the case of FIG. 1 with the elements 2 and 3. Parts 8 and 9 provided with notches 10 into which the ends 10a are inserted of part 4, said notches, being for example corrugated to favor attachment, are provided and fixed to elements 2 and 3 by means known per se (not shown).

La pièce 4 peut également être fixée sur les éléments 2 et 3 par collage ou tous autres moyens de fixation connus de l'homme de l'art.The part 4 can also be fixed to the elements 2 and 3 by gluing or any other fixing means known to those skilled in the art.

La figure 2a représente une variante où la pièce 4a est constituée par une languette métallique ondulée. La languette peut alors être fixée sur les pièces 2a et 3a, si elles sont également métalliques, par soudage ou tout autre moyen connu. L'utilisation d'une pièce dotée de propriétés élastiques qui est métallique permet de faire subir des températures et des conditions difficiles à l'articulation sans pour autant l'endomma­ger. Cette disposition présente des avantages importants et permet notamment des applications particulièrement intéressantes dans l'industrie automobile.Figure 2a shows a variant where the part 4a is constituted by a corrugated metal tongue. The tongue can then be fixed on the parts 2a and 3a, if they are also metallic, by welding or any other known means. The use of a part with elastic properties which is metallic makes it possible to subject the temperatures and difficult conditions to the joint without damaging it. This arrangement has significant advantages and in particular allows particularly interesting applications in the automotive industry.

La figure 4 montre une variante de l'articulation de l'invention ou deux positions de blocage sont possibles. L'élément 3 comporte une languette 3b propre à coopérer avec une première encoche 2b ou une deuxième encoche 2c de l'élément mâle 2. On a représenté sur la figure 4 l'application de l'articulation à une fenêtre dont l'élément 2 fait partie du dormant et l'élément 3 de l'ouvrant. Des espaces 2d et 3c sont ménagés dans le corps des éléments pour permettre une certaine élasticité et soulesse des éléments l'un par rapport à l'autre.Figure 4 shows a variant of the joint of the invention or two locking positions are possible. The element 3 comprises a tongue 3b capable of cooperating with a first notch 2b or a second notch 2c of the male element 2. FIG. 4 shows the application of the articulation to a window whose element 2 is part of the frame and element 3 of the opening. Spaces 2d and 3c are provided in the body of the elements to allow a certain elasticity and relieves elements relative to each other.

La figure 5 montre une variante de l'invention où la position de repos de la pièce élastique est prévue lorsque les éléments 2 et 3 forment un angle entre eux, la position tendue étant obtenue lorsque les éléments sont à plat dans le même plan.Figure 5 shows a variant of the invention where the rest position of the elastic piece is provided when the elements 2 and 3 form an angle between them, the tense position being obtained when the elements are flat in the same plane.

La figure 6 montre un boîtier pour circuits électroniques selon l'invention. Ce boîtier comporte un élément socle 10 en forme de plaque sur lequel on vient fixer des circuits électroniques de façon définitive ou amovible. On a représenté à titre indicatif sur la figure 6 une carte électronique 11, un boîtier de puce 12, des supports 13 verticaux, etc... Le boîtier comporte également des éléments latéraux 14 reliés par l'intermédiaire de moyens d'articulation selon l'invention, schématisés en 15, à l'élément socle 10, sur chacun des côtés dudit élément socle. Les éléments 14 sont susceptibles de venir se replier autour des moyens d'articulation 15 pour venir s'appuyer et se fixer par l'intermédiaire de moyens de blocage 16a, 16b en position repliée par rapport à l'élément socle et constituer ainsi le boîtier de forme sensiblement parallèlépipédique. Tous les moyens de blocage n'ont pas été représentés pour ne pas surcharger la figure.Figure 6 shows a housing for electronic circuits according to the invention. This housing comprises a base element 10 in the form of a plate on which electronic circuits are fixed permanently or detachably. FIG. 6 shows, for information only, an electronic card 11, a chip housing 12, vertical supports 13, etc. The housing also includes lateral elements 14 connected by means of articulation means according to the invention, shown diagrammatically at 15, to the base element 10, on each of the sides of said base element. The elements 14 are capable of being folded around the articulation means 15 to come to bear and fix themselves by means of blocking means 16a, 16b in the folded position relative to the base element and thus constitute the housing. of substantially parallelepiped shape. All the locking means have not been shown so as not to overload the figure.

Les éléments 14 comportent des fiches d'entrée-sortie 14a permettant de faire communiquer l'intérieur du boîtier avec des câbles de branchement extérieurs. Ils comportent aussi avantageusement soit des circuits électroniques propres 17, soit un clavier d'interface 18 comportant des boutons poussoirs 19 ou des boutons fonctionnant par contacts élastiques 20. On peut également incorporer à ces éléments latéraux un écran 21 ou tout autre dispositif connu en soi que l'on retrouve dans et sur les boîtiers électroniques, que ce soit des boîtiers pour micro-ordinateurs, chaînes HI-FI, etc.. Les moyens d'articulation 15 comportent une pièce 16 en matériau élastique fixée rigidement aux éléments latéraux d'une part et au socle d'autre part. Un mode de fixation particulièrement intéressant est celui précédemment décrit, les éléments étant en matière thermoplastique type ABS et la pièce en matériau élastique étant surmoulée sur la pièce de base constituée par l'ensemble des cinq éléments que l'on voit apparaître sur la figure 6. On utilisera avantageusement le même appareil pour injecter dans un premier temps le plastique thermodurcissable constituant les éléments rigides et dans un deuxième temps le matériau élastomère venant constituer la pièce 16 de l'articulation 15. Lors du coulage de l'élastomère, celui-ci peut avantageusement venir, par des chemins 22 préalablement préparés dans le moule initial, pénétrer dans des réservations ménagées dans les différents éléments pour constituer une partie du clavier 18 actionnable par pression d'un des éléments latéraux.The elements 14 comprise input-output plugs 14a making it possible to communicate the interior of the housing with external connection cables. They also advantageously comprise either own electronic circuits 17, or an interface keyboard 18 comprising push buttons 19 or buttons operating by elastic contacts 20. It is also possible to incorporate a screen 21 or any other device known per se into these lateral elements. that are found in and on electronic boxes, whether boxes for microcomputers, HI-FI systems, etc. The articulation means 15 comprise a part 16 of elastic material rigidly fixed to the lateral elements of on the one hand and on the base on the other. A particularly advantageous method of attachment is that described above, the elements being of ABS type thermoplastic material and the part of elastic material being overmolded on the base part constituted by all of the five elements which can be seen in FIG. 6 The same device will advantageously be used to first inject the thermosetting plastic constituting the rigid elements and secondly the elastomeric material constituting the part 16 of the articulation 15. During the pouring of the elastomer, the latter can advantageously come, by paths 22 previously prepared in the initial mold, to enter reservations made in the various elements to constitute a part of the keyboard 18 actuatable by pressure of one of the side elements.

La figure 7 montre différents disposifs de boutons de commande, les parties 23, 24, 25 étant en matériau dur et les parties figurées en 26 étant en matériau plus mou : élastomère. La constitution de ce type de clavier étant connue en soi, ne sera pas détaillée plus longuement.FIG. 7 shows different arrangements of control buttons, the parts 23, 24, 25 being of hard material and the parts shown at 26 being of softer material: elastomer. The constitution of this type of keyboard being known per se, will not be detailed in more detail.

Sur les figures 8 et 9 on a représenté des pièces d'angle 27 solidaires de la plaque socle 10 et sur lesquelles viennent s'encliquer ou se bloquer les éléments latéraux 14. Sur la figure 8, les éléments de blocage 16a, 16b, sont représentés de façon schématique et peuvent par exemple être constitués par des petites boules venant se bloquer dans des trous dont le diamètre d'entrée est légèrement inférieur.In FIGS. 8 and 9, corner pieces 27 are shown which are integral with the base plate 10 and on which the lateral elements 14 are snapped or blocked. In FIG. 8, the locking elements 16a, 16b are shown schematically and can for example be constituted by small balls coming to be blocked in holes whose entry diameter is slightly smaller.

La figure 9 donne en perspective et de façon partielle une idée de l'aspect extérieur du boîtier lorsqu'il est en position repliée.Figure 9 gives in perspective and partially an idea of the external appearance of the housing when it is in the folded position.

Il est, bien que cela ne soit pas représenté sur la figure 6, possible et même conseillé d'ajouter un élément supplémentaire relié à l'un des éléments latéraux par le côté opposé à celui qui est relié au socle 10 dudit élément latéral, de façon à pouvoir constituer le couvercle 28 du boîtier lorsque tous les éléments latéraux ont été repliés en position fermée. Ce couvercle 28 vient reposer par exemple sur une portion de la partie supérieure des colonnes 27 du socle 10.It is, although this is not shown in FIG. 6, possible and even advisable to add an additional element connected to one of the lateral elements by the side opposite to that which is connected to the base 10 of said lateral element, so as to be able to constitute the cover 28 of the housing when all the lateral elements have been folded back in the closed position. This cover 28 rests for example on a portion of the upper part of the columns 27 of the base 10.

Sur les figures 10 et 11 on a représenté, en vue partielle, un article de mobiler utilisant le même principe d'articulation que celui du boîtier décrit ci-avant.In Figures 10 and 11 there is shown, in partial view, a mobiler article using the same principle of articulation as that of the housing described above.

La figure 11 montre en perspective et en vue partielle deux éléments pouvant constituer une table ou un tabouret.Figure 11 shows in perspective and in partial view two elements that can constitute a table or a stool.

Il s'agit d'un élément supérieur 30 sur lequel on peut poser des objets et d'un élément servant de pied 31. Ces éléments peuvent être constitués en tous matériaux, plastique, bois, etc..It is an upper element 30 on which objects can be placed and an element serving as a foot 31. These elements can be made of any material, plastic, wood, etc.

Les moyens d'articulation sont constitués par une saillie allongée formant rotule 32 et une rainure 33 propre à coopérer avec la saillie, appartenant pour l'un à l'élément 31 et pour l'autre à l'élément 30. La pièce 34 en matériau élastique assure la liaison et la fixation de deux éléments l'un par rapport à l'autre. En position repliée, telle que représentée sur les figures 10 et 11, la mise en tension de cette pièce assure une bonne rigidité de l'ensemble.The articulation means are constituted by an elongated projection forming a ball joint 32 and a groove 33 suitable for cooperating with the projection, one belonging to the element 31 and the other to the element 30. The part 34 in elastic material ensures the connection and fixing of two elements relative to each other. In the folded position, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the tensioning of this part ensures good rigidity of the assembly.

Des moyens de blocage 35, comportant par exemple des moyens 36 de mise en tension progressive de la pièce 34, par exemple par rotation d'une molette 37, sont représentés sur les figures. D'autres moyens de mise en tension et de blocage peuvent être utilisés et sont à la portée de l'homme du métier.Locking means 35, comprising for example means 36 for progressive tensioning of the part 34, for example by rotation of a thumb wheel 37, are shown in the figures. Other tensioning and blocking means can be used and are within the reach of those skilled in the art.

Sur la figure 10, on constate que, du fait de la mise en tension de la pièce élastique 34, l'épaisseur e de cette pièce au niveau de la fixation sur l'un éléments est plus grande que l'épaisseur e′ que l'on peut mesurer en partie médiane de la pièce au niveau de la rotule 32 de l'élément 31. Des moyens 38, constitués par exemple par des picots ou tout autre moyen empèchant le glissement de la pièce 34 par rapport aux éléments 30 et 31 sont prévus dans les deux encoches longitudinales 39 des éléments 30 et 31 dans lesquelles la pièce 34 vient s'insérer pour lier lesdits éléments l'un à l'autre.In FIG. 10, it can be seen that, due to the tensioning of the elastic part 34, the thickness e of this part at the level of the attachment to one of the elements is greater than the thickness e ′ than l 'can be measured in the middle part of the part at the ball joint 32 of the element 31. Means 38, constituted for example by pins or any other means preventing the sliding of the part 34 relative to the elements 30 and 31 are provided in the two longitudinal notches 39 of the elements 30 and 31 in which the part 34 is inserted to link said elements to each other.

Les figures 12 et 13 montrent un mode de réalisation particulièrement avantageux de l'invention où la pièce dotée de propriétés élastiques et les deux éléments rigides reliés l'un à l'autre par ladite pièce sont constitués par une même pièce.Figures 12 and 13 show a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention where the part endowed with elastic properties and the two rigid elements connected to each other by said part are constituted by the same part.

Il existe en effet des matériaux dont la dureté et l'extensibilité varie suivant l'épaisseur retenue et/ou des traitements spécifiques appliqués à la partie que l'on veut plus ou moins élastique.There are indeed materials whose hardness and extensibility varies according to the thickness chosen and / or specific treatments applied to the part that is more or less elastic.

En particulier, la pièce unique utilisée comme articulation selon un mode de réalisation de la présente invention est constituée en élastomère thermoplastique du type connu sous la marque HYTREL déposée par Du Pont de Nemours pour ses élastomères thermoplastiques techniques. Ce type d'élastomère thermoplastique regroupe un grand nombre de caractéristiques recherchées dans les caoutchouc et les plastiques souples à hautes performances. Il est d'une grande tenacité et offre une résilience exceptionnelle, une résistance élevée au fluage, aux chocs et à la fatigue ainsi qu'aux flexions répétées. Une excellente flexibilité aux basses températures et une bonne conservation de ces propriétés aux températures élevées sont également parmi les qualités importantes des élastomères thermoplastiques de ce type. Il résiste en outre aux détériorations de nombreux agents chimiques industriels, huiles et solvants.In particular, the single piece used as articulation according to an embodiment of the present invention is made of thermoplastic elastomer of the type known under the trademark HYTREL registered by Du Pont de Nemours for its technical thermoplastic elastomers. This type of thermoplastic elastomer combines a large number of characteristics sought in rubber and flexible high-performance plastics. It is very tenacious and offers exceptional resilience, high resistance to creep, impact and fatigue as well as to repeated bending. Excellent flexibility at low temperatures and good retention of these properties at high temperatures are also among the important qualities of thermoplastic elastomers of this type. It also resists deterioration from many industrial chemicals, oils and solvents.

Les diverses méthodes de mise en oeuvre de thermoplastiques, notamment le moulage par injection, l'extrusion, l'extrusion-soufflage, le rotomoulage et la coulée à l'état fondu, permettent de fabriquer facilement des pièces à hautes performances avec les formes que l'on souhaite.The various methods of using thermoplastics, in particular injection molding, extrusion, extrusion blow molding, rotational molding and melt casting, make it possible to easily manufacture high performance parts with the shapes that we want.

Selon la méthode de transformation et le type de polymère utilisé, la mise en oeuvre est effectuée à des températures comprises entre 170°C et 250°C, par exemple de l'ordre de 200°C.Depending on the transformation method and the type of polymer used, the processing is carried out at temperatures between 170 ° C and 250 ° C, for example of the order of 200 ° C.

Grâce à des thermoplastiques élastomères du type de l'Hytrel, on peut ainsi réaliser une articulation du type de celle de l'article selon l'invention en une pièce unique remplaçant ainsi des pièces multiples en plastique, en bois ou en métal reliées par une pièce en matière élastique type caoutchouc.Thanks to elastomeric thermoplastics of the type of the Hytrel, it is thus possible to produce a joint of the type of that of the article according to the invention in a single piece, thus replacing multiple pieces of plastic, wood or metal connected by a piece of elastic material such as rubber.

L'article représenté partiellement sur les figures 12 et 13 est formé essentiellement de deux éléments ou portions : une portion "mâle" 2′ (comprenant une partie en saillie 2′a) et une portion "femelle" 3′ (comprenant une partie en creux 3′a). La figure 12 montre en position repliée et en butée l'une contre l'autre, les éléments ou portions 2′ et 3′ formant un angle entre eux, par exemple 90°.The article partially represented in FIGS. 12 and 13 is essentially formed from two elements or portions: a "male" portion 2 ′ (comprising a projecting part 2′a) and a "female" portion 3 ′ (comprising a portion hollow 3′a). Figure 12 shows in the folded position and in abutment against each other, the elements or portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ forming an angle between them, for example 90 °.

La figure 13 montre les mêmes portions 2′ et 3′ à plat. Ces deux éléments sont rigides et s'étendent chacun sensiblement dans un même plan. Les moyens d'articulation 1′ comportent de plus une portion 4′ élastique solidaire des portions 2′ et 3′ qu'elle relie l'une à l'autre. Les portions 2′, 3′ et 4′ constituent une même pièce, unique, mais présentant, pour les portions 2′ et 3′, une rigidité et une dureté importante alors que la portion 4′ est élastique et extensible.Figure 13 shows the same portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ flat. These two elements are rigid and each extend substantially in the same plane. The articulation means 1 ′ further comprise an elastic portion 4 ′ secured to the portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ which it connects to one another. The portions 2 ′, 3 ′ and 4 ′ constitute one and the same piece, unique, but having, for the portions 2 ′ and 3 ′, a high rigidity and hardness while the portion 4 ′ is elastic and extensible.

Lorsque les deux portions 2′ et 3′ sont sensible­ment dans le même plan, la portion 4′ élastique occupe une position relachée (figure 13). Lorsque les deux portions 2′ et 3′ sont en position repliée, et lorsqu'elles sont bloquées l'une par rapport à l'autre par des moyens de blocage (non représentés sur les figures 12 et 13) la portions 4′ occupe une position tendue de telle sorte qu'elle assure une bonne rigidité des moyens d'articulation 1 des deux portions 2′ et 3′ entre elles. La portion 4′ élastique est souple et d'une certaine extensibilité. En position repos, la dureté de la portion élastique peut par exemple être de l'ordre de 80 shores et passer à 100 shores avec un allongement de 3% lorsqu'elle est mise en tension (par exemple avec de l'ordre de 30 g. de pression). Mais, comme on l'a vu et en fonction de l'application, on pourra faire varier les trois paramètres dureté, extension et valeur de la pression exercée comme on le souhaite en jouant sur la composition et l'épaisseur de l'élastomère thermo­plastique, du type Hytrel, utilisé.When the two portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ are substantially in the same plane, the elastic portion 4 ′ occupies a relaxed position (FIG. 13). When the two portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ are in the folded position, and when they are blocked with respect to one another by blocking means (not shown in FIGS. 12 and 13) the portions 4 ′ occupies a stretched position so that it ensures good rigidity of the articulation means 1 of the two portions 2 ′ and 3 ′ between them. The elastic 4 ′ portion is flexible and of a certain extensibility. In the rest position, the hardness of the elastic portion can for example be of the order of 80 shores and pass to 100 shores with an elongation of 3% when it is tensioned (for example with around 30 g. pressure). But, as we have seen and depending on the application, we can vary the three parameters hardness, extension and value of the pressure exerted as desired by varying the composition and thickness of the thermoplastic elastomer , of the Hytrel type, used.

Les figures 14 et 15 montrent un autre mode de réalisation avantageux dans lequel la partie dotée de propriétés élastiques, par exemple une pièce en caoutchouc 4˝ est agencée pour occuper une position dépassant l'axe de rotation Ox de l'articulation, en position repliée (fig. 15). Ainsi lorsque l'élément 3˝ tourne autour de la rotule 2˝a de l'élément 2˝, la pièce élastique passe par une tension maximale, qui décroît une fois que le plan de ladite pièce 4˝ a dépassé l'axe Ox, ce qui aide à l'amener en position de blocage des deux éléments 3˝ et 2˝ l'un avec l'autre.FIGS. 14 and 15 show another advantageous embodiment in which the part endowed with elastic properties, for example a rubber piece 4 pièce is arranged to occupy a position beyond the axis of rotation Ox of the joint, in the folded position (fig. 15). Thus when the element 3˝ rotates around the ball joint 2˝a of the element 2˝, the elastic part passes through a maximum tension, which decreases once the plane of said part 4˝ has exceeded the axis Ox, which helps bring it into the locking position of the two elements 3˝ and 2˝ with each other.

Comme il va de soi et comme il en résulte d'ailleurs de ce qui précède, l'invention ne se limite nullement à ceux de ces modes d'application qui ont été plus spécialement envisagés ; elle en embrasse au contraire toutes les variantes, notamment celles où :
- les éléments s'étendant sensiblement dans le même plan comportent des excroissances intégrées audit élément sensiblement perpendiculaires au plan en nombre, volume et dimensions variés,
- la pièce élastique de liaison entre deux mêmes éléments est fragmentée, constituée par plusieurs parties espacés les unes des autres,
- la pièce élastique n'est pâs fixée à un même élément sur toute sa longueur mais sur une partie seulement de celle-ci,
- les éléments reliés entre eux sont en matériau différents,
- les éléments peuvent adopter, grâce à des moyens de blocage intermédiaires, plusieurs positions intermédiaires correspondant à des tensions différentes de la pièce en matériau élastique entre la position relachée ou au repos et une position tendue dite extrême, qui n'est pas forcément la position où la tension est la plus importante desdites tensions diffé­rentes.As is obvious and as it follows from the above, the invention is in no way limited to those of these modes of application which have been more especially envisaged; on the contrary, it embraces all variants, in particular those where:
the elements extending substantially in the same plane include protuberances integrated into said element substantially perpendicular to the plane in number, volume and various dimensions,
- the elastic connecting piece between two same elements is fragmented, consisting of several parts spaced from each other,
- the elastic part is not fixed to the same element over its entire length but only on part of it,
- the elements linked together are made of different materials,
- the elements can adopt, thanks to intermediate locking means, several positions intermediates corresponding to different tensions of the piece of elastic material between the relaxed position or at rest and a tensed position called extreme, which is not necessarily the position where the tension is the greatest of said different tensions.

Claims (16)

1. Article comportant au moins deux éléments rigides (2,3) s'étendant chacun sensiblement dans un même plan, des moyens d'articulation (1) de ces deux éléments entre une première position où les deux élé­ments forment un premier angle entre eux et une deuxième position en butée l'un contre l'autre où ces deux élé­ments forment un deuxième angle entre eux et, des moyens de blocage de ces éléments l'un par rapport à l'autre dans la deuxième position, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'articulation (1) comportent une partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques reliant lesdits éléments (2,3) l'un à l'autre, lesdits moyens d'articulation étant agencés pour faire occuper à ladite partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques une position relachée lorsque les deux éléments (2,3) occupent leur première position et une position sous tension lorsque les deux éléments sont bloqués l'un par rapport à l'autre dans leur deuxième position, de telle sorte que la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques tendue assure une bonne rigidité de l'articulation (1) des deux éléments (2,3) entre eux lorsque les moyens de blocage sont enclenchés.1. Article comprising at least two rigid elements (2,3) each extending substantially in the same plane, means of articulation (1) of these two elements between a first position where the two elements form a first angle between them and a second position in abutment against each other where these two elements form a second angle between them and, means for blocking these elements relative to each other in the second position, characterized in that the articulation means (1) comprise a part (4) endowed with elastic properties connecting said elements (2,3) to each other, said articulation means being arranged to occupy said part (4) endowed with elastic properties a relaxed position when the two elements (2,3) occupy their first position and a tensioned position when the two elements are locked relative to each other in their second position, so that the part (4) with elastic properties ten due ensures good rigidity of the articulation (1) of the two elements (2,3) between them when the locking means are engaged. 2. Article selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques est une pièce différente des deux éléments rigides (2,3), fixée sur lesdits éléments de façon amovible.2. Article according to claim 1, characterized in that the part (4) endowed with elastic properties is a different part from the two rigid elements (2,3), fixed on said elements in a removable manner. 3. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions 1 et 2, caractérisé en ce que les éléments (2,3) sont en matière plastique rigide, et en ce que la ou les parties (4) dotées de propriétés élastiques sont en élastomère du type caoutchouc synthétique.3. Article according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the elements (2,3) are made of rigid plastic, and in that the part or parts (4) endowed with elastic properties are made of elastomer of synthetic rubber type. 4. Article selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques et les deux éléments rigides forment une seule et même pièce constituée par un même matériau.4. Article according to claim 1, characterized in that the part (4) with elastic properties and the two rigid elements form a single piece made of the same material. 5. Article selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que la pièce constitutive des deux éléments (2,3) rigides et de la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques est en matériau élastomère thermoplastique dont on peut faire varier les propriétés élastiques et qui est du type connu sous la marque HYTREL.5. Article according to claim 4, characterized in that the component part of the two rigid elements (2,3) and of the part (4) endowed with elastic properties is made of a thermoplastic elastomer material, the elastic properties of which can be varied and which is of the type known under the trademark HYTREL. 6. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions 1 et 2, caractérisé en ce que la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques est une pièce en matériau élas­tique.6. Article according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the part (4) with elastic properties is a piece of elastic material. 7. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions 1 et 2, caractérisé en ce que la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques est une pièce métallique (4a), formant ressort.7. Article according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the part (4) with elastic properties is a metal part (4a), forming a spring. 8. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendi­cations précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'articulation (1) sont agencés pour mettre en tension progressivement la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques jusqu'à un point extrême de tension intermé­diaire, puis relacher cette tension pour aider l'arrivée en position de blocage des deux éléments rigides (2,3) l'un contre l'autre.8. Article according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the articulation means (1) are arranged to gradually tension the part (4) endowed with elastic properties up to an extreme point of intermediate tension, then release this tension to help the arrival in the blocking position of the two rigid elements (2,3) against each other. 9. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques est relachée lorsque les deux éléments (2,3) sont sensiblement à plat dans le même plan et tendue lorsque les deux éléments (2,3) forment un angle inférieur à 150° entre eux.9. Article according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the part (4) endowed with elastic properties is released when the two elements (2,3) are substantially flat in the same plane and taut when the two elements (2,3) form an angle of less than 150 ° between them. 10. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de blocage comportent au moins un cran de blocage intermé­diaire et les moyens d'articulation (1) sont agencés pour faire occuper à la partie élastique une position tendue intermédiaire lorsque les deux éléments (2,3) adoptent une position intermédiaire entre la première position et la deuxième position, correspondant au blocage intermédiaire.10. Article according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking means comprise at least one intermediate locking notch and the articulation means (1) are arranged to cause the elastic part to occupy an intermediate stretched position when the two elements (2,3) adopt an intermediate position between the first position and the second position, corresponding to the intermediate locking. 11. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'articulation (1) comprennent une saillie, par exemple allongée, formant rotule, solidaire de l'un des élé­ments, et une rainure propre à coopérer avec ladite saillie, solidaire de l'autre élément.11. Article according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the articulation means (1) comprise a projection, for example elongated, forming a ball joint, integral with one of the elements, and a groove capable of cooperating with said projection, integral with the other element. 12. Article selon la revendication 10, caracté­risé en ce que la partie (4) dotée de propriétés élastiques est agencée pour prendre appui sur ladite saillie allongée lors de la mise en tension de ladite partie dotée de propriétés élastiques.12. Article according to claim 10, characterized in that the part (4) with elastic properties is arranged to bear on said elongated projection when tensioning said part with elastic properties. 13. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'ils comportent au moins cinq éléments sensiblement en forme de plaques rectangulaires comprenant un élément central (10) et quatre éléments périphériques (14) reliés à chacun des côtés dudit élément central (10) par les moyens d'articulation (15) de telle sorte qu'en position repliée des éléments périphériques par rapport à l'élément central, l'ensemble constitue un boîtier sensiblement parallélépipédique.13. Article according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that they comprise at least five elements substantially in the form of rectangular plates comprising a central element (10) and four peripheral elements (14) connected to each of the sides of said element. central (10) by the articulation means (15) so that in the folded position of the peripheral elements relative to the central element, the assembly constitutes a substantially parallelepipedic housing. 14. Article selon l'une quelconque des revendica­tions précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de blocage d'un élément sur l'autre sont constitués par des clips (16a), verrouillables et déverrouillables par simple pression.14. Article according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for blocking one element on the other consist of clips (16a), lockable and unlockable by simple pressure. 15. Boîtier en matière plastique pour circuits électroniques comportant au moins cinq éléments sensi­blement en forme de plaque rectangulaire comprenant un élément socle (10) et quatre éléments latéraux (14) et des moyens de fixation de chaque élément latéral à un côté respectif de l'élément socle, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de fixation comportent des moyens d'arti­culation (15) de chaque élément latéral (14) avec ledit élément socle (10) entre une position à plat où tous les éléments sont sensiblement dans le même plan et une po­sition repliée, en butée, de chaque élément latéral (14) contre l'élément socle (10) pour former le boîtier, en ce qu'ils comportent des moyens de blocage (16a, 16b) de chaque élément latéral (14) par rapport à l'élément so­cle (10) dans ces positions repliées de butée respecti­ves pour maintenir le boîtier en position fermée, et en ce que lesdits moyens d'articulation (15) sont consti­tués par des pièces (16) en matériau élastique reliant chacun des éléments latéraux respectivement à un côté de l'élément socle, lesdits moyens d'articulation étant agencés pour tendre lesdites pièces entre une position au repos desdites pièces lorsque les éléments latéraux (14) sont à plat avec l'élément socle (10) et une position en tension desdites pièces (16) lorsque les éléments latéraux (14) sont bloqués par rapport à l'élément socle (10) dans la position fermée du boîtier, de telle sorte que les pièces élastiques (16) tendues assurent une bonne rigidité des articulations (15) entre chacun des quatre éléments latéraux (14) et l'élément socle (10) lorsque les moyens de blocage sont enclenchés.15. Plastic housing for electronic circuits comprising at least five elements substantially in the form of a rectangular plate comprising a base element (10) and four lateral elements (14) and means for fixing each lateral element to a respective side of the base element, characterized in that said fixing means comprise articulation means (15) of each lateral element (14) with said base element (10) between a flat position where all the elements are substantially in the same plane and a folded position, in abutment, of each lateral element (14) against the base element (10) to form the housing, in that they comprise locking means (16a, 16b) of each lateral element (14) relative to the base element (10) in these respective folded stop positions to maintain the housing in the closed position, and in that said articulation means (15) consist of parts ( 16) of elastic material connecting each of the lateral elements respectively to one side of the base element, said articulation means being arranged to tension said parts between a rest position of said parts when the lateral elements (14) are flat with the base element (10) and a tensioned position of said parts (16) when the lateral elements (14) are locked relative to the base element (10) in the closed position of the housing, so that the elastic parts ( 16) stretched ensure a good laugh gidity of the joints (15) between each of the four lateral elements (14) and the base element (10) when the locking means are engaged. 16. Boîtier en matière plastique pour circuits électroniques selon la revendication 15, caractérisé en ce que les éléments latéraux (14) et le socle (10) sont en polymère thermoplastique du type ABS moulé et en ce que les pièces en matière élastique sont en élastomère synthétique, du type caoutchouc synthétique à base de butadiène et de styrène surmoulé dans des espaces préa­lablement ménagés dans les éléments en matière plastique avec lesquels lesdites pièces en matière élastique se soudent lors dudit surmoulage.16. Plastic housing for electronic circuits according to claim 15, characterized in that the lateral elements (14) and the base (10) are in thermoplastic polymer of molded ABS type and in that the parts in elastic material are in elastomer synthetic, of the synthetic rubber type based on butadiene and styrene overmolded in spaces previously formed in the plastic elements with which said elastic material parts are welded during said overmolding.
EP88402083A 1987-08-14 1988-08-10 Article provided with elastic joints rigidifying themselves under tension Expired - Lifetime EP0306381B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT88402083T ATE84269T1 (en) 1987-08-14 1988-08-10 ELEMENT WITH ELASTIC JOINTS TIGHTENING UNDER TENSION.

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8711592A FR2619361B1 (en) 1987-08-14 1987-08-14 ARTICLE PROVIDED WITH RIGIDIFYING ELASTIC ARTICULATIONS DURING THEIR TENSIONING
FR8711592 1987-08-14
FR8715706 1987-11-13
FR878715706A FR2623167B2 (en) 1987-08-14 1987-11-13 IMPROVEMENT IN ARTICLES WITH ELASTIC ARTICULATIONS RIGIDIFYING ON THEIR TENSIONING

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EP0306381A1 true EP0306381A1 (en) 1989-03-08
EP0306381B1 EP0306381B1 (en) 1993-01-07

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EP (1) EP0306381B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH06100219B2 (en)
DE (1) DE3877292T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2037259T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2623167B2 (en)
GR (1) GR3007509T3 (en)

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WO1990014287A1 (en) * 1989-05-17 1990-11-29 Rical S.A. Spout assembly and sealing cap with spring-loaded hinge
GR900100376A (en) * 1989-05-17 1991-10-10 Rical Sa Effusion system and obstruction plug
US5301849A (en) * 1989-05-17 1994-04-12 Rical S.A. Spout assembly and sealing cap with spring-loaded hinge
FR2647088A1 (en) * 1989-05-17 1990-11-23 Rical Sa POURING ASSEMBLY AND CAPPING CAP WITH SPRING HINGE
EP0516954A1 (en) * 1991-05-29 1992-12-09 Focke &amp; Co. (GmbH &amp; Co.) Collapsible folding container
US5292060A (en) * 1991-05-29 1994-03-08 Focke & Co. (Gmbh & Co.) Folding container
US5389570A (en) * 1991-08-19 1995-02-14 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Method of forming boron doped silicon layer and semiconductor
DE4235061A1 (en) * 1992-10-17 1994-04-21 Huels Troisdorf Foldable multiway packaging - has fold positions formed by second material of higher flexibility but by redn. in material thickness
WO1997015502A1 (en) * 1995-10-26 1997-05-01 Schoeller International Engineering S.A. Collapsible plastic container
WO1999002412A1 (en) * 1997-07-07 1999-01-21 Perstorp Ab Collapsible container for transport and storage of fluid and particulate bulk goods
US6135287A (en) * 1997-07-07 2000-10-24 Perstorp Ab Collapsible container for transport and storage of fluid and particulate bulk goods
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EP1900644A1 (en) * 2005-07-01 2008-03-19 Gifu Plastic Industry Co., Ltd. Folding box made of synthetic resin
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GR3007509T3 (en) 1993-08-31
ES2037259T3 (en) 1993-06-16
DE3877292T2 (en) 1993-07-01
US4896787A (en) 1990-01-30
FR2623167A2 (en) 1989-05-19
EP0306381B1 (en) 1993-01-07
JPH06100219B2 (en) 1994-12-12
FR2623167B2 (en) 1992-08-07
JPH01288609A (en) 1989-11-20
DE3877292D1 (en) 1993-02-18

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