EP1785575B1 - Connector - Google Patents

Abstract

The plug connection (1) of U cross section has a transverse wall (4) with side panels (6,7). The side panels have circular arc flexible supports (9-12). In use, the supports adjoin the top or bottom corners of adjacent hollow members. The supports are also lined up along the longitudinal axis (22) of the connection. An independent claim is also included for a patch cord.

Description

The invention relates to a connector for hollow profiles of spacer frame or rungs of insulating glass with the features in the preamble of the main claim.

Such a connector for hollow profiles of spacer frame of insulating glass is from the WO 2005/040538 Al known. It has an omega shape in cross section and has a central web and two adjoining side webs, which have at the free edge a plurality of bevelled retaining lugs which extend in the direction of Seitenstegwandung and lie in alignment with each other.

The EP 0 283 689 shows a cross-sectionally U-shaped connector for spacer frame of insulating glass panes, which has a plurality of obliquely exhibited retaining tabs at the free edge of its side webs.

Another connector is out of the DE 34 08 600 AI known. The connector is designed as a straight connector or as a corner bracket for spacer frame of insulating glass and has a substantially U-shaped cross-section with a transverse wall and two edge side walls. The connector has a plurality of retaining elements, which are designed in the form of spring lugs and protrude laterally from the transverse and side walls. Such relatively stiff spring lugs provide a very good support of the connector in the hollow section. However, they are not ergonomically optimal in manual handling. Also the Tolerance absorption in lateral direction and height direction can be improved. In addition, thin-walled hollow profiles can result in problems with undesirable wall deformations.

The DE 203 04 330 U1 is concerned with another two-part connector in which a rigid connector part made of plastic or cast metal is inserted into a shell-like second connector part made of metal, wherein the shell-like connector part at the free edge of the side webs shows a plurality of obliquely exhibited retaining elements.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a better connector.

The invention solves this problem with the features in the main claim.

The arrangement of retaining elements on the free edge of the side bars or side walls, which extend substantially in extension of the web wall, has the advantage of a particularly good retention effect, which also occurs at particularly favorable locations of the hollow sections, where the latter also have a relatively high dimensional stability. Favorable here is a lateral offset of the retaining elements, whereby the engagement effect and the number of engagement points or engagement tracks is increased.

Additionally or alternatively, obliquely issued retaining elements or gills can be present laterally from Seitenstegwandung, which are also preferably located in the region of the free side edge margins. Here, the retention effect and multi-track favoring height offset can be present.

The at least partially forming the Seitenstegwandung as a spring element has the advantage that results in a larger and better spring action than in the previously used small gills or Federnasen. In the invention, the wall itself forms the spring element. As a result, the connector can absorb even better hollow profile tolerances in the lateral direction and height direction.

Particularly favorable is the design of the spring elements as at least partially isolated spring bridges. By the release, the spring bridges can independently deform elastically and tolerances. The release is carried out by substantially upright, lateral free cuts on the bridge edges, wherein the free cuts may have different lengths, which leads to different spring properties and in particular spring stiffness of the various spring bridges. For easier insertion of the connector into the hollow sections, the spring bridges located on the end faces may have softer springs than the spring bridges leading to the middle.

The Seitenstegwandung may be substantially flat or straight, the spring elements or spring bridges can spring especially in the transverse direction or lateral direction. To improve the Höhentoleranzaufnahme it is advantageous to give the side bars a multi-angled shape, the spring bridges receive an L-shape. Depending on the depth of the free cuts, which can extend far into the region of the lying bridge wall, an elasticity of the angled spring bridge can also be achieved in height or vertical. The upright bridge wall may extend substantially vertically. It may alternatively be placed obliquely outward to produce a resilient bias.

At the free edges of the spring bridges various retaining elements may be arranged, e.g. are designed as sawteeth, obliquely issued gills or the like. Additional height compensation measures may be taken on the horizontal bridge wall areas, e.g. by wart-like projections. The retaining elements can be formed rigid, with their resilient deflection and a resilient pressing and retaining force is made possible by the spring bridges or other resilient clamping elements.

The L-shape of the spring bridges can vary. In particular, the return or offset of the upright bridge walls may be different. The upright bridge walls can hereby be aligned parallel or obliquely to the connector longitudinal axis, wherein mixing arrangements are possible. As a result, different offset shapes or offset lines can be formed with a staircase-like or arcuate course.

The offsets can have different effects. On the one hand results for the retaining elements on the spring bridges a lateral path offset, whereby the retention effect is improved and increased. The retaining elements run when inserting the connector in the hollow sections in different tracks. In addition, over varying offsets of the bridge walls, the strength of the retention effect can be changed, which can also be combined with a change in the spring stiffness of the spring bridges. This makes it possible to change the resistance when inserting the connector into the hollow profiles depending on the immersion depth. In the case of variable offsets, which preferably admit to the end faces of the connector, it can also be achieved that the upright bridge walls adjoining the end face have a lateral distance to the side walls of the hollow profile, whereby the distance to the center decreases, so that only in the central area located spring bridges come with their upright bridge walls in abutting contact with the profile side walls and develop an additional lateral restraining force.

The elastic clamping elements shown in another embodiment are particularly advantageous for receiving height tolerances and / or lateral tolerances of the hollow profiles. Due to the elastic flexibility of the clamping bars and larger tolerances can be added.

The elastic compliance and clamping function of the clamping webs can be reinforced by a possible web curvature, which is aligned in extension of the side wall and / or transversely thereto. The clamping and retaining function can be further improved by tooth or wedge-like protruding retaining elements on the free terminal web page. A lateral curvature and / or an entangled Arrangement or orientation of these retaining elements ensures a lateral offset of their points of attack on the hollow profile wall and for improved retention.

Further advantages are the improved ergonomics in the manual handling of the connectors. At the clamping elements and the spring bridges you can not hurt yourself. This applies in particular to the preferably closed clamping webs.

The claimed connector is suitable for all types of hollow profiles in the insulating glass. Particular advantages exist for thin-walled and correspondingly unstable hollow profiles, as they are e.g. be increasingly used as steel or stainless steel profiles for spacers. Advantages also arise for hollow profiles made of glass fiber reinforced plastics. Such hollow profiles are sensitive to stress and bending. By spring bridges or elastic clamping elements unwanted deformations and punctiform pressure loads of the profile wall can be avoided.

On the other hand, the elastic clamping elements provide large spring travel and also accommodate greater tolerances of the hollow profiles, as e.g. may occur in glass fiber reinforced plastic profiles.

The clamping elements arranged on the edge side in preferably two longitudinal rows can engage at corner regions of the hollow profiles at the transition between side walls or shoulders and roof area. The shoulder height of metallic hollow profiles is subject to the smallest tolerances at these areas. In addition, here is the greatest mechanical stability of the hollow profile. As a result, the plug-in connector can be clamped in the hollow sections plugged on both sides,

For hollow profiles of glass fiber reinforced plastics, but also of other materials, it may be advantageous to attack the clamping elements and the retaining elements on the profile roof or on the tread base. This increases u.U. also the available travel and the tolerance capacity.

The clamping webs which have been cut free by means of an opening also have to be used with mechanically stiffer connecting materials, such as, for example, Steel or other metals, the desired springy compliance. The arcuate retaining elements can be optimally adjusted to the existing tolerance situation on the hollow profile. For this purpose, it is convenient to make the height difference between the peak height of the clamping webs and the basic height of the intermediate webs greater than the maximum height tolerance of the hollow profiles at the point of attack. As a result, a resilient engagement and a Höheneinspannung the connector is given at this point of attack in each case of tolerance. If the shoulder height hp of the hollow profile tolerances due to the basic height hg of the intermediate webs on the connector, the bent clamping bars can be pressed down when inserting the connector and deformed into the underlying opening, where they can be lowered with their apex to the ground.

In the subclaims further advantageous embodiments of the invention are given.

Figur 1 bis 5:

eine erste Variante eines Steckverbinders mit Federbrücken in verschiedenen Ansichten,

Figur 6 bis 9:

eine zweite Variante des Steckverbinders in verschiedenen Ansichten,

Figur 10 bis 14:

eine dritte Variante des Steckverbinders in verschiedenen Ansichten,

Figur 15 bis 19:

eine vierte Variante eines Steckverbinders in verschiedenen Ansichten,

Figur 20 bis 24:

eine fünfte Variante eines Steckverbinders mit anderen Klemmelementen in verschiedenen Ansichten und

Figur 25 bis 27:

eine sechste Variante eines Steckverbinders mit seitlich gebogenen Rückhalteelementen in verschiedenen Ansichten.

The invention is illustrated by way of example and schematically in the drawings. In detail show:

FIGS. 1 to 5:

a first variant of a connector with spring bridges in different views,

FIGS. 6 to 9:

a second variant of the connector in different views,

FIGS. 10 to 14:

a third variant of the connector in different views,

FIGS. 15 to 19:

a fourth variant of a connector in different views,

FIGS. 20 to 24:

a fifth variant of a connector with other clamping elements in different views and

FIGS. 25 to 27:

a sixth variant of a connector with laterally curved retaining elements in different views.

The invention relates to a connector (1) for hollow sections (2) of spacer frames, rungs or the like .. The connector (1) is adapted in its cross-sectional shape to the cross-sectional shape of the hollow sections (2) and has, for example, a substantially U-shaped cross-section, formed by a central web (5) or a transverse wall (104) and two side bars (6) or side walls (106,107) becomes. Alternatively, the connector (1) may have a box-like cross-sectional shape with two transverse walls or central webs. The central web (5) may have slot-like or other openings (26) for staples or the like. At the end faces (25), the connector (1) may be open and allow a flow of desiccant in the spacer frame. Alternatively, the end faces (25) may be closed for a granulate stop.

In the example in FIG. 4 . 8th and 13 In the embodiment shown, the hollow profile (2) may have a substantially rectangular cross-section with a bottom region (4) facing the inside of the spacer frame. This bottom region (4) can be substantially planar. Alternatively, it may have a transverse ribbing. Furthermore, one or more longitudinal rows of perforations (not shown) may be present on the bottom region (4), which produce a diffusion bond between a granulated drying agent (not shown) located in the hollow profile (2) and the interior of the insulating glass pane. On the bottom area (4) close on both sides substantially vertical and parallel side walls (32), which merge at the upper edge in an obliquely inwardly inclined or curved shoulder (34). The shoulders (34) in turn connect to the turn horizontal and the outside of the frame facing roof area (3). At this transition point to the roof area (3), a corner region (33) is formed. In the vicinity of this corner region (33), in particular on the adjacent roof area (3) and / or the upper end of the shoulder (34), the plug connectors (1) preferably engage with the retaining elements (9, 31, 43) described below.

The height distance between the transition of the side wall (32) in the shoulder (34) and the bottom portion (4) is referred to as shoulder height hp. In the case of thin-walled steel or stainless steel profiles, this profile point at the transition or at the corner area (33) is the area with the greatest mechanical strength or dimensional stability and the least height tolerance tolerance.

The connector (1) may consist of any suitable material. In the embodiments shown, it consists of metal, in particular a steel sheet and is formed as a stamped and bent part. Alternatively, it may be made of plastic and be a molded part or casting. The embodiment as a cast metal, such. Alloy, is possible. In addition, the connector (1) consist of composite materials.

In the various embodiments, the connector (1) on the free edges (19,108) of its side webs (6) or side walls (106,107) on projecting retaining elements (9,143), extending substantially in extension of the side web (6) or the side wall (106,107 ) and with the facing hollow profile wall, in particular depending on the installation position with the roof area (3) or the bottom area (4), engage.

The retaining elements (9,143) have a mutual lateral offset (23,150), which is aligned substantially transversely to the longitudinal axis (24,122) and the wall plane of the side webs (6) or side walls (106,107) of the connector (1). The lateral offset (23,150) has the consequence that the retaining elements (9,143) next to each other and at different locations or multi-track attack the inner wall of the hollow profiles (2), whereby the retention is improved.

The lateral offset (23, 150) can be designed differently and can be achieved in different ways. The exemplary embodiments described below indicate different possible variations for this purpose. The retaining elements (9, 143) may be e.g. be laterally offset from each other at the free edges (19,108) to be arranged. They may alternatively or additionally have a mutual entanglement (150) due to different inclinations. Furthermore, the side webs (6) or side walls (106, 107) may have a mutually laterally offset position and / or shape (28, 29, 152, 155), whereby the retaining elements (9, 143) receive said lateral offset (23). The side bars (6) or side walls (106, 107) may also deform when the hollow sections (2) are fitted, e.g. in operative association with a center stop (7, 123), thereby changing its position and / or orientation, which may also result in a lateral offset (23, 150) of the retaining elements (9, 143).

Further, the side bars (6) or side walls (106, 107) may include laterally deployed retaining elements (31), e.g. in the form of so-called triangular gills, which engage on the side wall (32) and / or the shoulder (34) of the hollow profiles (2). The gills (31) may also be located at the free edges (19, 108).

The retaining elements (9, 31, 433) may have a deformation-resistant shape, e.g. have a tooth, wedge or gill shape. A favorable for attaching the hollow sections (2) and tolerance tolerance spring elasticity is created by a resilient design of the side bars (6) or side walls (7.06, 107).

The described and shown embodiments of the retaining elements (9,31,143) can also be arbitrarily combined or replaced.

In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 19 the connector (1) has a hammerhead-like cross-sectional shape with angled side walls (6) together with bulges (15), which corresponds to the hammer head cross-sectional shape of the hollow profiles (2). Alternatively, the bends of the side webs (6) can be rounded more strongly, so that a curved Ω-like cross-sectional shape results.

FIG. 4 shows this design in a cross section. The side bar (6) is angled twice by about 90 °, whereby in the lower web wall area a lateral and outward bulge (15) is formed. Above the bulge (15) jumps the side bar (6) back to vexbinderinnenseits and protrudes after a further bend substantially upright. The upper edge or free edge (19) of the side webs (6) is directed in the installation position shown, for example, against the roof region (3) of the hollow profile (2) and comes into contact with this. In this case, the free edge (19) can be directed, in particular, into the edge-side corner area (33) between the horizontal roof area (3) and the adjoining shoulder (34) or side wall of the hollow profile (2) and also come into contact there with the side wall. The central web (5) rests on the bottom region (4) of the hollow profile (2). The bulge (15) is positively fitted into a recess of the angled in this area side wall (2) or shoulder (34) of the hollow profile (2) and guided with positive engagement. In the area of the bulge (15), the side web (6) can have substantially straight and flat wall sections. By fitting the bulge (15) in the angled side wall and shoulder region (2,34) of the connector is supported on eg full length on both sides in the hollow profile, resulting in a particularly high sag resistance. This one is especially for big and heavy filled Spacer frame interesting and advantageous because the frames no longer diverge in production handling at the junction.

The wall of the side webs (6) is in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 19 at least partially formed as a spring element (10). In the embodiments shown, the spring elements (10) are designed as spring bridges (11) which are at least partially exposed in the side web wall. In this case, the spring bridges (11) are set free in a crenellated manner by essentially upright, two-sided lateral cutouts (16, 17, 18) and are distanced from one another in the connector longitudinal direction (24). The cuts or cutouts (16,17,18) extend from the free edge (19) of the Seitenstegwandung into the foot area (20) of the upright bridge wall (13). The preferably parallel cutouts (16, 17, 18) are designed as narrow and essentially straight slots or recesses. The slot width is substantially smaller than the width of the spring elements (10) or spring bridges (11) formed between the cutouts (16, 17, 18).

In the simplest and not shown embodiment, the connector (1) may have substantially straight or even side webs (6). In this case, the web wall forms the upright bridge wall (13), wherein the free cuts (16,17,18) extend into the foot area formed at the transition between the central web (5) and the side web (6). In this way, a bending line extending along the connector axis (24) is formed between the free-cutting ends, about which the free-cut wall regions and spring elements can pivot resiliently with lateral deflection.

In the embodiments shown, the spring bridges (11) have in cross-section substantially an angled L-shape with a horizontal bridge wall (12) and an upright bridge wall (13). The upright bridge wall (13) can be aligned substantially vertically or perpendicular to the central web (5). It can alternatively be tilted and aligned obliquely outwards. FIG. 13 shows this particularly strong. The horizontal bridge wall (12) is aligned substantially parallel to the central web (5).

In the various embodiments of the L-shaped spring bridges (11), the cutouts (16, 17, 18) extend at least as far as the transition point (21) or bend, where the lying bridge wall (12) merges into the upstanding bridge wall (13). The cutouts (16, 17, 18) can also have a greater length and extend beyond the transition point (21) into the lying bridge wall (12). In the extreme case, the incisions (16, 17, 18) extend as far as the outside (30) of the bulge (15) or of the side web (6).

The length of the free cuts (16,17,18) determines the spring characteristics of the spring bridge (11). In the case of a free cut (16, 17, 18) extending to the transition point (21), essentially only the upright web wall (13) with a lateral movement component springs. If the free cuts (16,17,18) extend into the horizontal side wall (12) and in extreme cases to the outside (30), also the horizontal side wall (12) springs and can accommodate height tolerances of the hollow profiles (2).

The upright bridge walls (13) preferably have a planar shape. They can alternatively be curved. At its upper or free edge (19), they have one or more retaining elements (9). These may, for example, have the form of teeth, in particular of saw teeth, which are intended for Connector center towards steeper and to the end faces (25) fall off shallow and form by this shape a particularly good support in the hollow profile (2). The teeth protrude in extension of the upright bridge wall (13) substantially upwards. You have an ergonomic favorable and avoid injury in handling wedge shape with rising sides on both sides of the tooth tip flanks, and preferably a small height at the tooth tip of a few 1/10 mm.

The retaining elements (9) can here be laterally offset or entangled. In the entanglement (150), the retaining elements (9) are alternately inclined obliquely inwards and outwards with respect to the lateral slope, as for example the embodiment of FIG FIG. 22 shows. In addition, one or more retaining elements (31) or teeth such as gills may be bent obliquely outwardly to clampingly engage the side wall (2) and / or shoulder (34) of the hollow sections (2). These gills are preferably arranged at the edges or corners of the upright bridge walls (13) facing the connector center.

The connector (1) may have one or more center stops (7), which may be formed in any manner. FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment as an enlargement of the section II of FIG. 1 , The center stop (7) is arranged here in the spring bridge area and is formed by the arranged on both sides of the center line upright bridge walls (13). Here can according to the variants of FIGS. 21 to 24 Spring tabs (123) cut open and diagonally exposed. In the embodiment of FIG. 2 are dome-like forms (8) present, which are curved outwards and may have a wedge shape, wherein the embossing height increases towards the center line. The characteristics (8) are on both sides and in pairs opposite each other arranged. Alternatively, a diagonal offset is possible. The forms (8) can extend over the full length or over a partial area of the upright bridge wall (13). In the variant of FIGS. 15 to 19 the forms are replaced by laterally obliquely issued in the insertion direction rigid gills (31).

When sliding a hollow profile (2) slides its side wall on the expression (8) or gill (31), whereby the upright web wall (13) is resiliently pressed to the connector inside. At the opposite side of the middle expression (8) suggests the hollow profile. Due to the lateral deformation of the upright bridge wall (13) and the local retaining element (9) is laterally offset and digs at another point in the roof area (3) of the hollow profile (2) than the other retaining elements (9). This wall area is not deformed, so that a particularly good support and a tight fit of the connector (1) in the hollow profile (2) is given. A possibly existing lateral gill (31) also changes its height position and its point of application on the side wall (32) and / or shoulder (34) due to the bridge wall deformation.

The connector (1) may have further retaining elements or tolerance compensation elements. For this, e.g. on the lying side walls (12) elements for height compensation (22) may be arranged, e.g. are formed as upstanding pimples, warts or the like.

For the arrangement of the upright bridge walls (13), there are various design options that in the variants of Figure 1 to 5 . FIGS. 6 to 9 , and FIGS. 10 to 14 and FIGS. 15 to 19 are shown.

In the embodiment of Figure 1 to 5 the flat and plate-shaped upright bridge walls (13) are all aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis (24) of the connector (1) and thereby arranged in a line one behind the other. The upright bridge walls (13) can be mutually the same length in the direction of the axis (24). The lengths may alternatively be different, with, for example, the length decreasing from the transverse centerline to the end faces (25).

The shape of the cutouts can be the same or different. In the variant of Figure 1 to 5 is the incision depth of the cutouts (16,17,18) in the horizontal bridge walls (12) of different sizes. The free cuts (16) at the center line and the next free cuts (16) are, for example, the same size. The following free cuts (17) have a greater incision depth. In the last incisions (18), the incision depth is even greater and extends almost to the outside (30). Due to the different cutting depths of the limited spring bridges (11) have a different spring behavior. The spring stiffness of the spring bridges (11), in particular in the height direction, increases from the end faces (25) towards the connector center. When pushing the hollow profile (2) initially comes with the bending soft spring bridges (11) in contact and finds a relatively low resistance. As the insertion depth increases, the spring bridges (11) become more rigid and the resistance increases.

As FIG. 4 illustrates, the upright bridge walls (13) are placed obliquely outwards and are pushed resiliently when pushing the hollow section (2) inwards. This creates a bias, which supports and secures the engagement of the retaining elements (9,31) on the hollow profile (2). In addition, this is the by the distance (27) embodied tolerance recording improved.

FIGS. 6 to 9 show a further variant in the design and arrangement of the spring bridges (11). In this case, the upright bridge walls (13) have a different rebound or offset (14) with respect to the outside (30). This results in the in FIG. 7 illustrated stepped-like offset (28), wherein the recess (14) from the end faces (25) gradually decreases towards the center. Likewise, the incision depths of the cutouts (16, 17, 18) also decrease from the end faces (25) towards the middle. Due to the mutual offset of the upright bridge walls (13) results for the retaining elements (9) of in FIG. 7 shown web offset (23). This has the consequence that the retaining elements (9) engage at different locations in the roof area (3) of the hollow profiles (2), whereby the retention is improved. If retaining elements (9) are arranged in a common track in succession along the insertion direction, only the most projecting retaining elements (9) engage, while the other, shorter retaining elements are weakened in the effect. By the lateral offset or web offset (23) this is avoided and increases the number of engaging retaining elements (9). In FIG. 8 the retaining elements (9) are shown shortened for clarity. In FIG. 9 is the imminent attack situation of the hollow section (2) at the center stop (7) shown.

In the third variant of FIGS. 10 to 14 the upright bridge walls (13) arranged in the middle region of the connector (1) are aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis (24) and have a greater length than the other upright bridge walls (13). In addition, the offset (14) is the smallest here. As a result, the spring bridges (11) adjacent to the connector center have the highest Spring stiffness and develop, with their retaining elements (9) the strongest retention force.

The upright next to the end face (25) upright bridge walls (13) have an increasing offset (14) relative to the outer side (30) and are also aligned obliquely to the longitudinal axis (24). The successive bridge walls (13) in this case form an arcuate offset (29). The arc lines converge toward the end faces (25).

In this case, the incision depths of the free cuts (16, 17, 18) can also vary and in particular increase towards the end faces (25). FIG. 10 shows a connector (1) in side view. Here, the crenellated release of the spring bridges (11) on the free cuts (16,17,18) is shown.

Even with an arcuate offset (29) of the upright bridge walls (13) results in a lateral offset or web offset (23) of its retaining elements (9). FIG. 12 clarifies this arrangement. Due to the inclination of the bridge walls (13) of the web offset (23) can be increased compared to the other embodiments. The retaining elements (9) also act obliquely to the insertion direction of the hollow profiles (2).

FIGS. 15 to 19 show a fourth variant of the connector (1), which largely corresponds to the embodiment of Figure 1 to 5 is ajar. The changes relate, for example, to the lack of height compensation (22) on the horizontal bridge walls (12). Further, at the ends of the spring bridges (11) or the upright bridge walls (13) facing towards the center of the connector, a retaining element (31) or a so-called gill is shown, which is obliquely projected outwards. When sliding a hollow profile (2) slides its front side on the obliquely flared Gill (31) and thereby presses the spring bridge (11) elastically inward. The overrun gill (31) digs into the side wall (32) and / or the shoulder (34) of the hollow profile (2) and is pressed by the resilient restoring force of the spring bridge (11). The gills (31) thereby prevent unwanted removal of the hollow sections (2) from the connector (1).

As FIG. 16 illustrated in the right half connector, the laterally issued retaining elements (31) or gills with each other have a different height from the central web (5) and thereby at least one mutual height offset (h1, h2, h3) form. By this one or more times existing preferably continuously changing height offset (h1, h2, h3) run the gills (31) also in different tracks in the sidewall region of the hollow sections (2) and attack there in different places and altitudes. The multi-lane improves the retention and the resistance against removal of the hollow sections (2). In the embodiment shown, from the end face (25) towards the connector center, the height position of the retaining elements (31) on each of the two connector legs increases continuously.

In the variant of FIGS. 20 to 24 a connector (1) is shown with a substantially U-shaped cross-section having on the lower transverse wall (104) and at the bottom a longitudinal central bead (148) which extends over only a part of the bottom length and bottom width and mediated in both directions. In addition, longitudinal side beads (149) are disposed at the bottom edges and at the transitions from the bottom (104) into the side walls (106, 107). The beads (148,149) are bulged to the cavity (128). The beads (148,149) can stiffen the connector (1). With the side beads (149) can be a contour adjustment to reach a correspondingly shaped hollow profile (not shown). The beads (148,149) may alternatively be omitted or only partially present.

In this embodiment, another form of clamping elements (139) is also present. As in particular the side view and the perspective view of FIGS. 23 and 24 To illustrate, these clamping elements (139) have a longitudinal clamping web (141) with an underlying opening (142) in the side wall (106,107), wherein the clamping web (141) extends substantially straight and along the longitudinal axis (122). The opening or wall opening (142) is designed as a slot with parallel longitudinal edges.

The clamping web (141) has at its free and from the opening (141) facing away from the longitudinal edge protruding tooth-like retaining elements (143). In this case, a plurality of retaining elements (143) are preferably arranged one behind the other to form a sawtooth contour and with their steeper flanks each point to the transverse connector center (121). The saw teeth (143) extend substantially in extension of the side wall (106,107) and protrude, for example, in a horizontal installation of the connector (1) in the hollow profile (2) upwards. The saw teeth (143) dig when plugging the hollow profiles (2) on the roof wall (3) or a shoulder (34) or a corner region (33) accordingly FIG. 4 , The protruding retaining elements (143) have over the associated interior height of the hollow profile (2) an excess, wherein the thin clamping web (141) can yield resiliently.

In the embodiment shown, two clamping elements (139) are arranged one behind the other on each side wall (106, 107) on both sides of the center line (121). The wall openings (142) are formed by narrow intermediate webs (118) separated. The clamping webs (141) are arranged on both sides with distance to the center line (121). In this area, the side walls (106,107) are solid and may also have tooth-like retaining elements (143) at its free edge (108). The sawtooth profiles can thereby extend from the front sides of the connector (1) over the entire wall length to the center line (121) or to the center stop (123) there.

As FIG. 22 in a detail view to FIG. 20 shows, the tooth-like retaining elements (143) are mutually entangled and / or aligned. Here, the teeth (143) are alternately bent transversely to the longitudinal axis (122) inwardly and outwardly and are thereby inclined. The two-sided offset (150) formed thereby is in FIG. 22 indicated with reference lines.

Due to the offset (150) and the inclination, the teeth (143) engage with their edges or tips at a mutual lateral distance against the applied inner wall of the hollow profile (2). This results in different lines of action or intervention traces on the hollow profile wall, resulting in an improved retention function. When sliding the hollow sections (2), the teeth (143) dig a little bit into the hollow profile wall. If all the teeth (143) were running in the same lane, only the most upwardly projecting teeth (143) would actually be in retention engagement with the hollow profile wall due to the tolerance-related tooth height differences. The number of supporting or engaging teeth or retaining elements (143) is increased by the multi-track effect achieved via the entanglement or the offset (150).

FIGS. 25 to 27 show a further modification of a connector (1). This in turn has the training shown in the above embodiment of clamping elements (140) with tooth-occupied clamping webs (141) and wall openings (142). In this variant, only one clamping web (141) with its wall opening (142) is arranged on each side wall (106, 107) on both sides of the center line (121) and extends over a correspondingly longer wall region.

In a modification of the above-described embodiments are in FIGS. 25 to 27 the clamping elements (140) and their clamping webs (141) transversely to the longitudinal axis (122) of the connector (1) and transversely to the main plane (154) of the respective side wall (106,107) curved (152). The transversely directed bulges (152) may be directed towards the inside or the cavity (128) of the connector (1) and / or to the outside. Here, the clamping web (141) may be provided with a uniform curvature (152) or with a plurality of bulges (152), which may be directed the same or opposite. Along a side wall (106,107) a plurality of bulges (152) can be arranged one behind the other and be directed in the same way or directed opposite. In this way, a waveform (153) or a wave-shaped clamping contour can be formed in both cases.

The bulges (152) and the wavy clamping contour (153) can have different effects. On the one hand, projecting clamping areas or lateral clamping points on the plug connector (1) can be formed by this shaping and in particular by bulges (152) bulging outwards, which possibly have resilient properties and interact with the applied inner wall area of the hollow profile (2). Depending on the position of the arcuate clamping elements (140), this may be the case on one of the wall regions of the hollow profile (2) be.

The second effect is as in the above-described embodiment of FIGS. 20 to 24 in a Mehrspurigkeit the tooth-like retaining elements (143) when engaged on the inner walls of the hollow profiles (2). Due to the arch shape, the teeth (143) present in the curvature area and projecting in the direction of the curvature axis are offset laterally relative to each other and thereby obtain the mentioned different engagement traces on the hollow profile wall. FIG. 25 shows this lateral offset or track offset (23). The retaining elements (143) may additionally have an entanglement (150).

For the laterally bulging bulges (152) are particularly the cut-free and easily bendable due to their slim design clamping webs (141). In addition, the side walls (106, 107) in their solid area, which is not interrupted by a wall opening (142), may also have such a wall deformation and an inward and / or outward curvature (152) and possibly a wave form (153).

The lateral bulges (152) and the possibly formed thereby waveform (153) and the lateral offset (150) of the retaining elements (143) and their multi-track wall engagement can also with connectors (1) without the clamping webs (141) and without the wall openings (142 ) be used. The side walls (106, 107) in this case can have a substantially massive shape.

Modifications of the embodiments shown are possible in various ways.
On the one hand, the various embodiments and their individual features can be interchanged and combined as desired. It is also possible, the connector shown (1) in the various variants as Form corner angle and in this case the legs on the center line (121) in a 180 ° deviating, arbitrary angle to each other rigidly or limited to move. It is also possible for a granulate stop the connector (1) with closed end faces (25) and optionally also provided with transverse and longitudinal inner walls or ribs. The connector (1) can also have a largely massive shape.

Furthermore, design and design variants .. with regard to the shape of the clamping webs (141) and the number and arrangement of the clamping elements (139,140) possible. In addition, it is possible, in addition to the preferred two marginal longitudinal rows of clamping elements (139,140), further rows, e.g. provided on the additional transverse wall (5) or at other locations which engage with other areas of the hollow profile (2). In a further modification, the clamping elements (139, 140) may be arranged on the underside or on the top and bottom of the connector (1). They can be located at the lower edge region of the side walls (106, 107) and at the transition to the lower transverse wall (104), wherein a lateral offset is also possible.

Further Variantionsmöglichkeiten relate to the design of the spring bridges (11) and their free cuts (15, 17, 18) and the cross-sectional shape of the connector (1), which depends on the hollow profile shape. The in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 19 shown and described embodiments of the connector (1) have an independent and of the type, arrangement and the lateral offset of the retaining elements (9) independent meaning and can be designed with or without these retaining elements (9) or their offset (23). This is especially true for the at least partially forming the Seitenstegwandung as Spring element (10) and especially for their design as isolated spring bridges (11). For example, the retaining elements (9) on the free edge (19) of the side webs (6) may be missing or arranged elsewhere. Furthermore, embodiment of Figure 1 to 5 the retaining elements (9) may be arranged in common lines one behind the other in alignment.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Connectors

2

hollow profile

3

roof

4

floor area

5

center web

6

side web

7

center stop

8th

shaping

9

Retaining element, spring nose

10

spring element

11

spring bridge

12

lying bridge wall

13

upright bridge wall

14

Return, offset

15

bulge

16

Nick, free cut

17

Nick, free cut

18

Nick, free cut

19

free border

20

footer

21

Transition, crossing point

22

height adjustment

23

lateral offset, track offset

24

longitudinal axis

25

front

26

opening

27

tolerance absorption

28

Offset, staircase-like offset

29

Offset, arcuate offset

30

outside

31

Retaining element, gill

32

Sidewall hollow profile

33

corner

34

shoulder

104

Transverse wall below

106

Side wall

107

Side wall

108

Edge, free sidewall edge

118

gutter

121

Center, centerline, junction

122

Longitudinal axis, longitudinal direction

123

center stop

128

cavity

139

Retaining element

140

Retaining element

141

Clamping bar straight

142

opening, wall opening

143

Retaining element, sawtooth

148

Beading in the middle

149

Bead sideways

150

lateral offset, entanglement

152

Offset, vault across

153

Offset, waveform, undulating clamping contour

154

Main level sidewall

h1

height offset

h2

height offset

h3

height offset

Claims (30)

1. Plug connector for hollow sections of spacer frames, bars or the like for insulating glass panes, the plug connector (1) comprising at least one central web (4, 5) and a plurality of lateral webs (6, 106, 107) and a plurality of retainer elements (9, 143), a plurality of retainer elements (9, 143) being arranged at the free edge (19, 108) of the lateral webs (6, 106, 107), the said retainer elements extending essentially in the direction of the lateral-web wall, characterized in that the retainer elements (9, 143) have a mutual lateral offset (23, 150) at the edge (19, 108) of the web.
2. Plug connector according to Claim 1, characterized in that the lateral offset is designed as a mutual cross-set (150) of oblique retainer elements (9, 143).
3. Plug connector according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the lateral offset is designed as a path offset (23) of the retainer elements (9, 143), the lateral webs (6) or side walls (106, 107) having a mutually laterally offset position and/or shape (28, 29, 152, 153).
4. Plug connector according to Claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that one or more laterally protruding retainer elements (31) or fins are arranged on the lateral webs (6) or side walls (106, 107), preferably on the free edges (19, 108) of the said webs or walls.
5. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retainer elements (31) have at least one vertical offset (h1, h2, h3).
6. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wall of the lateral web (6) is designed as a spring element (10), at least in some area or areas.
7. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wall of the lateral web (6) is designed as a distinct spring bridge (11), at least in some area or areas.
8. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring bridges (11) are rendered distinct by means of essentially upright lateral cut-outs (16, 17, 18).
9. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cut-outs (16, 17, 18) extend from the free edge (19) into the foot area (20) of the upright bridge wall (13).
10. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lateral web (6) has a multi-angled shape.
11. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring bridge (11) essentially has an angled L shape with a horizontal bridge wall (12) and an upright bridge wall (13).
12. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upright bridge wall (13) is aligned obliquely outwards.
13. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upright bridge wall (13) is arranged offset relative to the outside (30) of the plug connector (1).
14. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upright bridge walls (13) have a different offset (14).
15. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upright bridge walls (13) are arranged essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis (24) of the plug connector (1).
16. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the parallel upright bridge walls (13) are arranged in a step-type offset (28).
17. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upright bridge walls (13) are aligned obliquely to the longitudinal axis (24) of the plug connector (1).
18. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the obliquely aligned upright bridge walls (13) adjoin one another, forming an arc-shaped offset (29).
19. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the offset (14) of the upright bridge walls (13) increases from the centre to the ends (25) of the plug connector (1).
20. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plug connector (1) has upright bridge walls (13) aligned in parallel and obliquely.
21. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cut-outs (16, 17, 18) extend as far as the transition (21) between the bridge walls (12, 13).
22. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cut-outs (16, 17, 18) extend beyond the transition (21) and into the horizontal bridge wall (12).
23. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cut-outs (16, 17, 18) on the plug connector (1) are of different lengths.
24. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring bridges (11) are of different spring stiffness.
25. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring stiffness of the spring bridges (11) increases from the ends (25) to the centre of the plug connector (1).
26. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a height compensator (22), which is preferably boss-like, is arranged on the horizontal bridge wall (12).
27. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more retainer elements (9) are arranged on the upright bridge walls (13).
28. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that tooth-like, in particular sawtooth-like, retainer elements (9) are arranged on the free edge of the upright bridge walls (13).
29. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plug connector (1) has at least one central stop (7) in the spring-bridge area.
30. Plug connector according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central stop (7) has an embossed feature (8).

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