EP2389084B1 - Closure device for connecting two parts - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a closure device for connecting two parts according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such a closure device has a first connection module and a second connection module, which can be arranged in a closing direction to one another and mechanically locked in a closed position. In addition, magnetic means are provided which cause a magnetic attraction between the connection modules to assist the transfer of the connection modules to the closed position. By moving the first connection module or a part of the first connection module in an opening direction that differs from the closing direction, the first connection module can then be detached from the second connection module, in this way opening the closure device.

At one of the WO 2008/006357 A2 known closure device of this type, two connection modules in a vertical closing direction are set together and lock it mechanically. Characterized in that a magnet or on the one hand a magnet and on the other hand a magnetic armature are arranged both on the first connection module and on the second connection module, the production of the mechanical latching and thus the transfer of the closure device in the closed position is magnetically supported. If appropriate Dimensioning of the magnets, the closing of the closure device is largely automatic, when the connection modules are approached to each other. By displacing or rotating the first connection module relative to the second connection module, the mechanical locking can then be released again, wherein at the same time the magnetic means are sheared off from one another by lateral movement and thus removed from one another.

Locking devices of this type on the one hand in their closed position a safe and reliable connection of two parts with each other available and on the other hand can be closed in a simple manner and opened again in a haptic pleasant way. The uses of such closure devices extend to devices of a general type for (releasably) connecting two parts, such as closures of bags, flaps or lids, connecting devices for straps or lines or other components and the like.

It is desirable to make the magnetic means, realized for example by magnets or a magnet and a magnetic armature, small in order to save on costs for magnets and also to keep the construction volume of the closure device low. When dimensioning the magnetic means but it should be noted that they should cause a sufficient magnetic force to create an attractive force between the connection modules, which allows a largely automatic mechanical latching.

For example, a closure device according to the WO 2008/006357 A2 To close, the connection modules are attached to each other. If the fitting takes place exactly in the closing direction with exactly aligned magnetic means, a large magnetic attraction between the connection modules, so that the transfer to the closed position is supported in a desired manner by the action of the magnetic means. If the magnetic means are not aligned exactly with one another, then the magnetic attraction force causes the connection modules to be aligned with one another, ie the magnetic attraction pulls the connection modules toward one another while aligning the magnetic means and in the closed position, in which the magnetic means should be aligned largely congruent frontal to each other.

This alignment of the connection modules to each other when closing the closure device is desirable. A complete, optimal alignment is practically but only when the magnetic attraction of the magnetic means has a predetermined strength and the magnetic means are sized accordingly large. If the magnetic means are dimensioned small, it may happen that the magnetic attraction force is insufficient to align the connection modules to each other and to automatically transfer to the closed position in case of inexact alignment of the connection modules to each other when closing the closure device. This is due to the fact that with inaccurate positioning of the connection modules to each other, the respective magnetic means (such as magnet and armature) are not exactly opposite, but laterally offset from each other, so that the acting magnetic attraction force is smaller than in exact alignment of the magnetic means to each other. If this reduced magnetic attraction force is insufficient to produce the mechanical locking, the connection modules remain in an intermediate position in which the closure device is not completely closed; an automatic transfer to the closed position does not take place.

In order to achieve an automatic latching even when not fitting the connecting modules together to close the closure device, so far an oversizing of the magnetic means has been required, which makes the closure device expensive and leads to a relatively large space requirement.

From the US 2002/229974 A1 For example, a closure device is known in which a first connection module can be attached to a second connection module, wherein magnetic means are provided to magnetically assist in establishing a closure position.

At one of the WO 2009/092368 A2 known closure device connecting modules in a closed position are rotatable to each other, wherein by twisting one of the connection modules relative to the other, the closure device can be opened.

From the WO 2010/006594 A2 a closure device in the form of a plug-in buckle is known, in which a connecting module can be moved linearly relative to another connecting module in order to open the closure device from a closed position.

The present invention has for its object to provide a closure device for connecting two parts, which allows a safe, haptic pleasant closing under largely automatic, magnetically assisted transfer to the closed position and thereby manages with small-sized magnetic means.

This object is achieved by an article having the features of claim 1.

On the one hand to allow a light, haptic pleasant closing of the closure device, even if the connection modules are not exactly aligned when attached to each other, an additional guide portion is provided on the second connection module, which leads the first connection module in the closed position. The guide portion is aligned so that it is directed with at least one direction vector component opposite to the example, transverse to the closing direction facing opening direction. For example, the guide section may be directed obliquely to the opening direction and thereby describe an obtuse angle with the opening direction.

In this context, a direction vector component means a vector component of the direction vector of the guide section. The direction vector of the guide section points in the direction in which the guide section guides the first connection module. This directional vector is mathematically decomposable into direction vector components, one of which is opposite to the Opening direction is directed. For example, a second directional vector component perpendicular to the first directional vector component may point in the closing direction.

By thus directed guide portion is achieved that even with an offset of the connection modules when attaching to each other, so for example when the first connection module is offset in the opening direction relative to the second connection module, a slight and largely automatic closing of the closure device takes place. In this case, the magnetic means used can be made small, since the orientation of the connection modules to each other during

Conversion into the closed position no longer takes place solely by the magnetic means, but in a guided manner by means of the guide section. An oversizing of the magnetic means is no longer necessary so that small magnets can be used with a small space requirement for the realization of the magnetic means.

To produce the positive mechanical latching, a blocking piece is arranged on the first connecting module and a spring locking element is arranged on the second connecting module, which jointly realize a mechanical locking device. Both the locking piece and the spring locking element may have locking projections in the manner of locking elements, which engage in a form-fitting manner with one another for the purpose of producing the mechanical locking. When attaching the first connection module to the second connection module, the locking piece of the first connection module urges the spring locking element of the second connection module until the locking piece snaps into engagement with the spring locking element and establishes the mechanical locking between the connection modules.

Advantageously, the guide section is arranged in the closing direction in front of the latching projection of the spring locking element in such a mechanical latching. By means of the guide section, the first connection module, when it is attached with an offset to the second connection module (that is to say not exactly aligned along the closing direction), is first aligned with the second connection module, before the latching is then established. First, therefore, by the at least one guide portion, an orientation such that the magnetic means are optimally opposed to generate a maximum attractive force; only then the latching projections of the locking piece and the spring locking element engage. This ensures that the production of mechanical locking is best supported by the magnetic means and can be dispensed with an oversizing of the magnetic means.

The guide section thus enables the magnetic means to optimally-without lateral offset-be aligned with one another for the purpose of producing the mechanical locking and to magnetically attract one another for the best possible support of the latching process. At the same time, because the guide section is arranged in the closing direction in front of the locking projection of the spring locking element on the second connecting module, the guide section does not hinder lateral displacement of the first connecting module in the opening direction for opening the closing device.

To release the first connection module from the second connection module, the spring locking element and the locking piece are displaced relative to each other, so that the spring locking element is moved along the opening direction out of the region of the at least one locking piece. The opening direction can be aligned transversely to the closing direction, wherein the mechanical locking between locking piece and locking element is canceled by the fact that locking projections of the locking piece and the spring locking element laterally, d. H. tangentially, be disengaged.

The at least one guide section for guiding the first connection module into the closed position can be arranged, for example, on a spring locking element or a plug receptacle of the second connection module. In the first case, the spring locking element serves on the one hand for producing the mechanical locking and on the other hand also for guiding the first connecting module into the closed position. In the second case, these functions are separated: The spring locking element is used for mechanical locking, while the guide portion on the connector receptacle of the second connection module leads the first connection module in the direction of the closed position. The locking piece of the first connection module may be formed substantially rotationally symmetrical and a latching projection for mechanical locking having a latching projection of the spring locking element of the second connection module. The spring locking element may be formed substantially annular, extend around a central axis extending parallel to the closing direction and be arranged on a connector receptacle of the second connection module. The spring locking element is thereby opened in sections in the circumferential direction and realized in this way a recess which allows removal of the locking piece of the first connection module in the opening direction (transverse to the closing direction) from the spring locking element of the second connection module and thus releasing the closure device.

The substantially ring-shaped spring locking element can be arranged in a variant rotatably on the connector receptacle of the second connection module. The recess of the spring locking element is in this case seen from the central axis of such that the spring locking element is open in the opening direction, so that the locking piece of the first connection module can be pushed in the opening direction of the spring locking element of the second connection module. The spring locking element holds in this way the locking piece against the closing direction by positive mechanical locking in the connector receptacle of the second connection module, but not against the opening direction in which the spring locking element is open. Contrary to the opening direction, the connection modules are held together in particular by the magnetic attraction of the magnetic means, which must be overcome for opening.

In a second variant, the spring locking element can also be arranged rotatably on the connector receptacle of the second connection module. The spring locking element is rotatable about the central axis for releasing the first connecting module from the second connecting module, wherein in a secured position, the spring locking element is rotated so that it is not open in the opening direction (as viewed from the central axis of the spring locking element) (ie the recess of the spring locking element is located in a direction other than the opening direction viewed from the center axis), so that the locking piece can not be removed in the opening direction from the spring locking element. The mechanical locking of spring locking element and locking piece is thus secured. In an unlocked position, on the other hand, this is Federverriegelungselement for releasing the first connection module from the second connection module about the central axis is rotated so that the recess of the spring locking element seen from the central axis in the opening direction is arranged and the spring locking element is thus open in the opening direction, so that the first connection module with its locking piece in the Opening direction can be pushed out of the spring locking element of the second connection module.

For easy operation of the spring locking element, a lever may be arranged on the spring locking element in this case, with which the spring locking element from the secured in the unlocked position and vice versa can be rotated. Conceivable in this context is also to bias the spring locking element by using, for example, a mechanical spring in a position, so that without actuation of the lever, the spring locking element is always arranged for example in the secured position in which a release of the first connection module from the second connection module is not possible ,

It is also conceivable to arrange the guide section of the second connection module and an interacting with the guide section portion of the first connection module spatially separated from the magnetic means and the mechanical latching and, for example, by a slotted guide or the like wahrreallichen. The locking piece of the connection module can substantially into a Extend longitudinally at an angle to the closing direction and have a locking projection for mechanical locking with a locking projection of a spring locking element of the second connection module. In this case, locking piece and spring locking element are not rotationally symmetrical, but extend in a longitudinal direction on the first connection module or on the second connection module. Both on the locking piece and on the spring locking element locking projections are formed, which together when attaching the first connection module to the second connection module engage and establish the mechanical locking. For releasing the shutter device, the first connection module and the second connection module are displaced relative to each other along the opening direction, the opening direction being directed along the longitudinal direction of the locking piece.

The locking piece can be directed so that the opening direction is aligned with a direction vector component counter to a main load direction, so that under the action of a load in the main load direction no opening of the closure device can take place.

As mentioned above, in order to open the shutter, the magnetic attraction of the magnetic means must be overcome. In order to additionally secure the closure device against unintentional release in the opening direction, additional locking means may be provided, which also counter to the opening direction z. B. positively lock with the second connection module. This makes it difficult to open the closure device.

This latching means can also be realized by the spring locking element, which in the closed position, the locking piece circumferentially surrounds such that to release the connection modules from each other, a spring force of the spring locking element must be overcome. Due to the circumferential gripping the spring locking element counteracts opening of the closure device, wherein by dimensioning of the spring locking element and the magnetic means a suitable opening force required can be adjusted.

The magnetic means may be formed by a respective (permanent) magnet arranged on the first connection module and on the second connection module or on the one hand a magnet and on the other hand a magnetic armature, for example of a ferromagnetic steel. The magnetic means on the first connection module and on the second connection module are suitable for generating the magnetic attractive force between the connection modules aligned with each other. The magnetic means are realized by two magnets, they face each other with opposite poles.

Particularly effective is the effect of the guide section in a magnet system consisting of magnet and armature. The advantage of these magnet systems is that only one magnet is needed, which reduces costs. These magnet systems have physically but only a much weaker lateral restoring moment. By providing at least one guide section, the magnet can be dimensioned small even in the realization of the magnetic means by magnet and armature to save costs and space.

At the same time, the movement of the first connection module relative to the second connection module for opening the closure device also mitigates the magnetic attraction force between the first connection module and the second connection module by removing the magnetic means from each other by moving the connection modules along the opening direction. In the open state, the mechanical locking is disengaged and the magnetic means are removed from each other, so that the first connection module can be easily and easily removed from the second connection module and the closure device can be opened.

In a further embodiment of a closure device, the closure device can also be formed by a first closure part and a second closure part, which can be attached to one another in the closing direction and which each have two or more connection modules.

In a first variant, one closure part can have, for example, two first connection modules and the other closure part can have two second connection modules, or in a second variant, both closure parts can each have a first connection module and a second connection module. Thus, two connection modules are arranged on each closure part in these variants, namely either two first connection modules on the one hand and two second connection modules or one first and one second connection module on the other hand.

The closure parts in turn lock in the closing direction and are mechanically locked together in the closed position via the two connecting modules arranged on the closure parts. The mechanical latching is thus done twice, so to speak, in the closed position, two pairs of connecting modules are mechanically locked together and lock the first closure member and the second closure member via two positive mechanical locks with each other.

It is also conceivable in this context to provide more than two connection modules per closure part, for example three or more, which are arranged, for example, in a row or on a circle.

It is conceivable to form the closure parts with the connection modules arranged thereon in such a way that they can be opened by moving them in a straight line relative to one another. However, it is also conceivable and advantageous for the two closure parts to be pivotable relative to one another about a pivot axis with respect to one another in order in this way to move the connection modules of the closure parts relative to one another for opening. Characterized in that the closure parts are pivoted to each other, the connection modules of the closure parts are moved relative to each other, so that the locking pieces of the first connection modules out of engagement with the spring locking elements of the second connection modules. The pivot axis may be directed parallel to the closing direction and be arranged concentrically between the connecting modules on the first and second closure part.

If a first and a second connection module are respectively arranged on the first closure part and on the second closure part, the first closure part and the second closure part can be configured identical to one another in order to be placed mirror-inverted against one another. Accordingly, the first closure part and the second closure part each have a locking piece and a spring locking element which, for the purpose of transferring the closure device into the closed position, engages with the spring locking element or the locking piece of the other closure part to be brought. The identical construction of the closure parts saves construction costs, since no different tools are required for the production of the closure parts.

Fig. 1

eine Explosionsansicht eines ersten Beispiels einer Verschlussvorrichtung zum Verbinden zweier Teile;

Fig. 2A

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung beim Verschließen;

Fig. 2B

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung beim Öffnen;

Fig. 3

eine Draufsicht auf die Verschlussvorrichtung beim Öffnen;

Fig. 4

eine Schnittansicht durch die Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie A-A gemäß Fig. 3;

Fig. 5

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines ersten Verbindungsmoduls und eines Federverriegelungselementes eines zweiten Verbindungsmoduls der Verschlussvorrichtung;

Fig. 6A

eine Seitenansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung beim Schließen;

Fig. 6B

eine Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung von unten beim Schließen;

Fig. 7A

eine Seitenansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung in der Schließstellung;

Fig. 7B

eine Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung von unten in der Schließstellung;

Fig. 8

eine Explosionsansicht eines zweiten Beispiels einer Verschlussvorrichtung;

Fig. 9A

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung beim Schließen;

Fig. 9B

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung in der Schließstellung;

Fig. 9C

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung vor dem Öffnen;

Fig. 9D

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung beim Öffnen;

Fig. 10A

eine Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung von unten in der Schließstellung;

Fig. 10B

eine Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung von unten beim Öffnen;

Fig. 11

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines dritten Beispieles einer Verschlussvorrichtung;

Fig. 12A, 12B

Ansichten der Verschlussvorrichtung beim Schließen;

Fig. 13

eine Schnittansicht durch die Verschlussvorrichtung beim Schließen entlang der Linie B-B gemäß Fig. 12B;

Fig. 14

eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Verschlussvorrichtung nach dem Stand der Technik;

Fig. 15A

eine Vorderansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung in der Schließstellung;

Fig. 15B

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie C-C gemäß Fig. 15A;

Fig. 16A

eine Seitenansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung;

Fig. 16B

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie D-D gemäß Fig. 16A;

Fig. 17

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Verschlussvorrichtung mit einem an der Steckeraufnahme des zweiten Verbindungsmoduls angeordneten Führungsabschnitt;

Fig. 18

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Verschlussteils einer Verschlussvorrichtung, bei der an zwei Verschlussteilen jeweils ein erstes Verbindungsmodul und ein zweites Verbindungsmodul ausgebildet sind;

Fig. 19A

eine Seitenansicht einer Verschlussvorrichtung mit zwei jeweils zwei Verbindungsmodule aufweisenden Verschlussteilen, vor Herstellung der Schließstellung;

Fig. 19B

eine Draufsicht der Verschlussvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 19A;

Fig. 19C

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie A-A gemäß Fig. 19B;

Fig. 20A

eine Seitenansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung in der Schließstellung;

Fig. 20B

eine Draufsicht der Verschlussvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 20A;

Fig. 20C

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie A-A gemäß Fig. 20B;

Fig. 21A

eine Seitenansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung in geöffnetem Zustand;

Fig. 21B

eine Draufsicht der Verschlussvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 21A;

Fig. 21C

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie A-A gemäß Fig. 21B;

Fig. 22A, 22B

perspektivische Ansichten einer die Erfindung verwirklichenden Ausführungsform einer Verschlussvorrichtung;

Fig. 23A

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung vor Herstellung der Schließstellung;

Fig. 23B

eine Draufsicht der Verschlussvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 23A;

Fig. 23C

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie A-A gemäß Fig. 23B;

Fig. 24A

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung in der Schließstellung;

Fig. 24B

eine Draufsicht der Verschlussvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 24A;

Fig. 24C

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie A-A gemäß Fig. 24B;

Fig. 25A

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung beim Öffnen;

Fig. 25B

eine Draufsicht der Verschlussvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 25A;

Fig. 25C

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie A-A gemäß Fig. 25B;

Fig. 26A

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung in geöffnetem Zustand;

Fig. 26B

eine Draufsicht der Verschlussvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 26A und

Fig. 26C

eine Schnittansicht der Verschlussvorrichtung entlang der Linie A-A gemäß Fig. 26B;

The idea underlying the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the figures. Show it:

Fig. 1

an exploded view of a first example of a closure device for connecting two parts;

Fig. 2A

a perspective view of the closure device when closing;

Fig. 2B

a perspective view of the closure device when opening;

Fig. 3

a plan view of the closure device when opening;

Fig. 4

a sectional view through the closure device along the line AA according to Fig. 3 ;

Fig. 5

a perspective view of a first connection module and a spring locking element of a second connection module of the closure device;

Fig. 6A

a side view of the closure device when closing;

Fig. 6B

a view of the closure device from below when closing;

Fig. 7A

a side view of the closure device in the closed position;

Fig. 7B

a view of the closure device from below in the closed position;

Fig. 8

an exploded view of a second example of a closure device;

Fig. 9A

a perspective view of the closure device when closing;

Fig. 9B

a perspective view of the closure device in the closed position;

Fig. 9C

a perspective view of the closure device before opening;

Fig. 9D

a perspective view of the closure device when opening;

Fig. 10A

a view of the closure device from below in the closed position;

Fig. 10B

a view of the closure device from below when opening;

Fig. 11

a perspective view of a third example of a closure device;

Figs. 12A, 12B

Views of the closure device when closing;

Fig. 13

a sectional view through the closure device when closing along the line BB according to Fig. 12B ;

Fig. 14

a perspective view of a closure device according to the prior art;

Fig. 15A

a front view of the closure device in the closed position;

Fig. 15B

a sectional view of the closure device along the line CC according to Fig. 15A ;

Fig. 16A

a side view of the closure device;

Fig. 16B

a sectional view of the closure device along the line DD according to Fig. 16A ;

Fig. 17

a perspective view of a closure device with a arranged on the connector receptacle of the second connection module guide portion;

Fig. 18

a perspective view of a closure part of a closure device, in which two closure parts in each case a first connection module and a second connection module are formed;

Fig. 19A

a side view of a closure device with two each two connecting modules having closure parts, before the production of the closed position;

Fig. 19B

a plan view of the closure device according to Fig. 19A ;

Fig. 19C

a sectional view of the closure device along the line AA according to Fig. 19B ;

Fig. 20A

a side view of the closure device in the closed position;

Fig. 20B

a plan view of the closure device according to Fig. 20A ;

Fig. 20C

a sectional view of the closure device along the line AA according to Fig. 20B ;

Fig. 21A

a side view of the closure device in the open state;

Fig. 21B

a plan view of the closure device according to Fig. 21A ;

Fig. 21C

a sectional view of the closure device along the line AA according to Fig. 21B ;

Figs. 22A, 22B

perspective views of a realization of the invention embodiment of a closure device;

Fig. 23A

a perspective view of the closure device before the production of the closed position;

Fig. 23B

a plan view of the closure device according to Fig. 23A ;

Fig. 23C

a sectional view of the closure device along the line AA according to Fig. 23B ;

Fig. 24A

a perspective view of the closure device in the closed position;

Fig. 24B

a plan view of the closure device according to Fig. 24A ;

Fig. 24C

a sectional view of the closure device along the line AA according to Fig. 24B ;

Fig. 25A

a perspective view of the closure device when opening;

Fig. 25B

a plan view of the closure device according to Fig. 25A ;

Fig. 25C

a sectional view of the closure device along the line AA according to Fig. 25B ;

Fig. 26A

a perspective view of the closure device in the open state;

Fig. 26B

a plan view of the closure device according to Fig. 26A and

Fig. 26C

a sectional view of the closure device along the line AA according to Fig. 26B ;

Fig. 1 to 7 show a first example of a closure device with a first connection module 1 and a second connection module 2, which serves for connecting two parts, for example as a closure for a bag, for connecting ropes or straps or for connecting other components.

The parts to be connected are connected to the first connection module 1 and to the second connection module 2 and are detachably coupled to one another via the connection modules 1, 2.

The closure device establishes a mechanical latching via the connection modules 1, 2 in that in a closed position a locking projection 11 of the first connection module 1 arranged on a locking piece 13 engages positively with a latching projection 240 of a spring locking element 24 of the second connecting module 2.

The locking piece 13 with the locking projection 11 arranged thereon extends in the manner of a pin rotationally symmetrical to the first connection module. 1

The spring locking element 24 is rotatably connected via a bottom plate 23, but arranged with a radial clearance on a connector receptacle 21 of the second connection module 2 and engages around a top side of the holding plate 23 protruding holding element 231, wherein a radially projecting formation 230 a lateral, the spring locking element circumferentially opening recess 241 of otherwise engages annular spring locking element 24 and thereby determines the spring locking element 24 rotatably on the second connection module 2.

For arranging the spring locking element 24 on the plug receptacle 21, the bottom plate 23 is pressed together with the spring locking element 24 disposed thereon in a lower-side recess 22 of the second connection module 2, as seen from Fig. 1 seen.

To establish the closed position, as in Fig. 2A illustrated, the first connection module 1 in a closing direction X attached to the second connection module 2 by the locking piece 13 is inserted into an upper-side plug opening 210 of the connector receptacle 21. As a result, the latching projection 11 of the locking piece 13 of the first connection module 1 comes into contact with the latching projection 240 of the spring locking element 24 of the second connection module 2 and urges it radially outward until the latching projection 11 engages with the latching projection 240 in a latching manner.

At the first connection module 1 and at the second connection module 2 respectively magnetic means 10, 20 are arranged, which cause a magnetic attraction between the connection modules 1, 2 to each other. The magnetic means 10, 20 can each be realized by a magnet or on the one hand by a magnet and on the other hand by a magnetic armature, for example of a ferromagnetic steel. The magnetic means 10, 20 are used to magnetically support the transfer of the connection modules 1, 2 in the closed position, so that the mechanical locking of the connection modules 1, 2 together largely as far as possible automatically when the connection modules 1, 2 are attached to each other.

In the closed position, shown for example in Figs. 7A and 7B , the first connection module 1 and the second connection module 2 are positively locked together, wherein the latching projections 11, 240 mechanically hold the connection modules 1, 2 against the closing direction X in engagement.

Transverse to the closing direction X, the first connection module 1 is held over the lateral boundary of the plug receptacle 21 on the second connection module 2. However, the plug receptacle 21 is opened laterally in the circumferential direction as well as the annular spring locking element 24 and has a lateral recesses 211 through which the first connection module 1 with its locking piece 13 in an opening direction Y transversely to the closing direction X from the locking engagement with the second connection module 2 can be pushed.

To open the closure device, the first connection module 1 is displaced in the opening direction Y relative to the second connection module 2, so that the locking piece 13 with the latching projection 11 arranged thereon is pushed tangentially (laterally) out of the region of the spring locking element 24 with the latching projection 240 arranged thereon the recess 211 is removed from the plug receptacle 21 (see Fig. 2B ).

The closure device can be closed on the one hand in a gentle and haptic pleasant way by attaching the first connection module 1 to the second connection module 2 in the closing direction X, in the closed position to connect the connection modules 1, 2 mechanically fixed and secure each other. By moving the first connection module 1 in the opening direction Y, the closure device can then be opened again in a likewise easy and haptic manner, whereby the mechanical locking is achieved by the opening movement and the magnetic means 10, 20 are removed from each other by tangential movement, so that the magnetic attraction weakens.

Against unintentional opening in the opening direction Y, the first connection module 1 is held by the magnetic attraction of the magnetic means 10, 20 on the second connection module. In addition, the spring locking element 24 surrounds the locking piece 13 circumferentially, so that in addition to the magnetic force of the magnetic means 10, 20, a spring force of the spring locking element 24 for radially bending the spring locking element 24 must be overcome to open the closure device. By suitable Dimensioning of the magnetic means 10, 20 and the spring locking element 24, the force required for opening can be set in a desired manner, on the one hand a haptic pleasant opening should be possible, but at the same time avoid accidental release or at least made more difficult.

As in particular from Fig. 1 can be seen, the spring locking element 24 in the region of the recess 241 below the locking projection 240 recesses 242, 243, which are adapted to the locking projection 11 of the locking piece 13 and a sliding out of the locking piece 13 from the spring locking element 24 allow in overcoming the holding spring force of the spring locking element 24.

The closure device is closed by attaching the first connection module 1 to the second connection module 2, wherein ideally the connection module 1 and the connection module 2 are moved towards each other exactly along the closing direction X and attached to each other. Realistically, however, this closing movement will not take place exactly in the closing direction X, and the connecting modules 1, 2 will not be aligned exactly with one another. In particular, as in Fig. 6B illustrates an offset A occur along the opening direction Y between the connection modules 1, 2, so that when attaching the connection modules 1, 2 to each other they are not centered to each other and thus are not aligned with each other in an optimum manner.

In order to enable a largely automatic transfer of the connecting modules 1, 2 in the closed position even when using small magnets to the realization of the magnetic means 10, 20, on the spring locking element 24 by extension of the locking projection 240 guide portions 240A, 240B arranged to the recess 241 adjoin. As in Fig. 6A 1, these guide sections 240A, 240B extend obliquely to the opening direction Y and in particular describe an obtuse angle β with the opening direction Y. The guide sections 240A, 240B are aligned such that a spatial direction vector F corresponding to the gradient of the guide sections 240A, 240B directed at least with a directional component FY against the opening direction Y.

As in Fig. 6A illustrates the direction vector F mathematically in direction vector components FX, FY (and additionally possibly also in a third direction vector component FZ in three-dimensional space) decomposed, of which the direction vector component FX in the closing direction X and the direction vector component FY directed against the opening direction Y. is. By providing the guide portions 240A, 240B, the first connection module 1 is guided to the closed position when fitting to the second connection module 2, these guide portions 240A, 240B in particular when the first connection module 1 in the opening direction Y by an offset A is offset to the second connection module 2. The guide sections 240A, 240B then guide the first connection module 1 counter to the opening direction Y into the closed position, thereby compensate for the offset A and center the connection modules 1, 2 with each other.

In the closed position, as in Figs. 7A and 7B shown, the connection modules 1, 2 are aligned concentrically to a central axis D, are centered to each other and are latching engaged with each other.

By providing the guide portions 240A, 240B, the magnetic means can be small in size because the transfer to the closed position and the centering of the connection modules 1, 2 to each other in a guided manner on the guide portions 240A, 240B is supported and thus not solely by magnetic attraction magnetic means 10, 20 must be effected. By using small magnets, the cost of the closure device is reduced. In addition, the required space is reduced.

Show a second example of a closure device Fig. 8 to 10 , Here, components of the same function are provided with the same reference numerals as above, as far as this is expedient.

The closure device according to Fig. 8 to 10 is in its operation largely identical to the preceding with reference to Fig. 1 to 7 described closure device. In contrast to the closure device described above, only the spring locking element 24 in the closure device according to Fig. 8 to 10 about its central axis D rotatably disposed on the second connection module 2 and has a lever 244, which passes through a through opening 212 on the connector receptacle 21 of the second connection module 2 and can be operated to rotate the spring locking element 24.

The spring locking element 24 engages around a rotationally symmetrical retaining element 230 of the base plate 23, without being fixed thereto.

As with the closure device described above is also in the closure device according to Fig. 8 to 10 the first connection module 1 is mechanically locked to the second connection module 2 by attaching it to the closure device X to the second connection module 2 and thereby brought into a closed position (see FIG Figs. 9A and 9B ). In this closed position, the spring locking element 24 is rotated in such a way to the plug receptacle 21 of the second connection module 2, that the recess 241 is in a different angular position than the recess 211 of the plug receptacle 21 and the recesses 241, 211 are thus not congruent with each other. In the closed position according to Fig. 9B is the first connection module 1 so mechanically locked to the second connection module and also secured to the second connection module 2 by the first connection module 1 can not be pushed in the opening direction Y from the plug receptacle 21 of the second connection module 2.

To open the closure device, the lever 244 is pivoted in the passage opening 212 and thus the spring locking element 24 is rotated about the central axis D, so that the recesses 241, 211 of the spring locking element 24 and the plug receptacle 21 get into a congruent position (see Fig. 9C ). The first connection module 1 is thus no longer on the spring locking element 24th held in the plug receptacle 21 opposite to the opening direction Y and can be pushed out of the plug receptacle 21 in the opening direction Y to open the shutter device in this way (see Fig. 9D ).

The bottom views according to Figs. 10A and 10B illustrate the angular position of the spring locking element 24 to the connector receptacle 21 in the secured position ( Fig. 10A ) and in the unlocked position ( Fig. 10B ).

A third example of a closure device in the form of a plug buckle is in Fig. 11 to 13 shown. Again, as far as appropriate, components of the same function are provided with the same reference numerals as above.

In the buckle according to Fig. 11 to 13 is a locking piece 13 of a first connection module 1, in contrast to the examples described above, not rotationally symmetrical, but elongated with two lateral locking projections 11 and engages in a closed position in an elongated connector receptacle 21 of a second connection module 2 with an upper plug opening 210 and a lateral Recess 211 a. In the closed position, the latching projections 11 are positively engaged with two spring locking elements 24A, 24B and latching projections 240 arranged thereon.

As in the examples described above, the transfer to the closed position takes place by attaching the first connection module 1 in a closing direction X to the second connection module 2. The transfer to the closed position is supported magnetically by magnetic means 10, 20, for example, in each case a magnet or on the one hand a magnet and on the other hand a magnetic anchor.

The closure device in the form of the buckle can be opened by lateral displacement movement in an opening direction Y, to bring the locking projections 11 laterally by this tangential displacement movement out of engagement with the locking projections 240 of the spring locking elements 24A, 24B. In this respect, there are no functional differences to the examples described above. How out Fig. 11 and 12A, 12B can be seen, on the spring locking elements 24A, 24B each have a guide portion 240A, 240B formed when attaching the first connection module 1 to the second connection module 2 with the locking projections 11 in the in Figs. 12A, 12B shown manner in the end face in plant to guide the first connection module 1 in the closed position.

The guide portions 240A, 240B each have a directional vector F pointing along the slope of the guide portion 240A, 240B, which is an obtuse angle β to the opening direction Y and directed with a directional vector component FY against the opening direction Y.

In the closed position, the first connection module 1 and the second connection module 2 are optimally aligned with each other, in particular the magnetic means 10, 20, for example a magnet and a magnetic armature, optimally facing each other and effecting a maximum magnetic attraction.

How out Fig. 11 can be seen, the guide portions 240A, 240B are arranged in the closing direction X above the locking projections 240 and are in the closed position in which the locking projections 11 of the locking piece 13, the locking projections 240 of the spring locking elements 24A, 24B engage behind, not in contact with the locking piece 13 or its locking projections 11. The guide portions 240A, 240B thus do not oppose opening of the closure device and have an effect only upon transfer of the closure device into the closed position.

Like, for example Fig. 13 can be seen on both sides of the closure device in the form of the buckle Gurtanbindungen 14, 25 are formed, which serve to tie a belt to the connection modules 1, 2 of the buckle. The buckle can be used in particular for transmitting tensile loads and takes this the acting load forces on the mechanical latching of the locking projections 11, 240 in a form-fitting manner.

A closure device with connection modules 1, 2 which essentially correspond to the closure device according to FIG Fig. 11 to 13 corresponds, is in Fig. 14 to 16 shown. Only the guide portions 240A, 240B are in the closure device according to Fig. 14 to 16 unavailable.

In order also in the closure device according to Fig. 14 to 16 to ensure that in the closed position ( Fig. 15 and 16 ) the connection modules 1, 2 are arranged and aligned exactly to each other, are in the closure device according to Fig. 14 to 16 the magnetic means 10, 20, for example a magnet 10 and a magnetic armature 20 offset by an offset V arranged to each other, so that even in the closed position, a force against the opening direction Y is generated, which serves as a kind of bias and safe transfer to ensure in the closed position. For this purpose, a large dimensioning of the magnetic means 10, 20 is required, in accordance with the examples described above Fig. 1 to 13 is superfluous due to the provided guide sections.

As in Fig. 15A illustrated, is provided in the closure device in the form of the buckle, to arrange the opening direction Y at an angle α to a horizontal. The opening direction Y is thus not directed transversely to the closing direction X, but with an angle α to the transverse direction. It is thereby achieved that in a contrary to the closing direction X acting loading force, the closure device can not open inadvertently, as pressed by the loading force, the first connection module 1 against the opening direction Y in the connector receptacle 21 and thus counteracts an opening. Fig. 17 shows a closure device, in its construction and in its function substantially the closure device according to Fig. 1 to 7 equivalent. In contrast to the closure device according to Fig. 1 to 7 Here, however, at the plug receptacle 21 (additional) guide portions 240A ', 240B' are provided, which the first connection module 1 with the locking piece 13 arranged thereon to the Producing the closed position lead and seen in the closing direction X are arranged in front of the spring locking element 24 and the locking projection 240 formed thereon. When attaching the first connection module 1 to the second connection module 2, the locking projection 11 of the locking piece 13 slides along the guide portions 240A ', 240B' and, in an offset of the first connection module in the opening direction Y relative to the second connection module 2, out against the opening direction Y. to thereby align the magnetic means of the connection modules 1, 2 to each other. The preparation of the mechanical latching is thus carried out in mutually aligned connection modules 1, 2 in an optimally supported manner.

Fig. 18 to 21 show another example of a closure device that uses two closure parts 3, 4, on each of which a first connection module 1 and a second connection module 2 are arranged. The closure parts 3, 4 are of identical design and each have a locking piece 13 with a locking projection 11 of the first connection module 1 and a connector receptacle 21 with a spring locking element 24 of the second connection module 2.

Figs. 19A to 19C show the closure device with the closure parts 3, 4 before establishing the closed position. To close the closure device, the closure parts 3, 4 are attached to each other in the closing direction X, so that the connection modules 1, 2 of the closure parts 3, 4 respectively engage with each other and mechanically lock together.

In the closed position, shown in FIGS. 20A to 20C , The locking pieces 13 are respectively engaged with the spring locking elements 24 and mechanically lock the closure parts 3, 4 together.

To open, as in Figs. 21A to 21C illustrated, the closure parts 3, 4 about a pivot axis S, which is directed along the axis of symmetry of the closure parts 3, 4 parallel to the closing direction X, pivoted to each other. As a result, the connection modules 1, 2 of the closure parts 3, 4 are each moved relative to each other in such a way that the blocking pieces 13 of the first connection modules 1 are each in the opening direction Y be moved from the spring locking elements 24 of the second connection modules 2. In the open state, the mechanical locking is canceled, and the closure parts 3, 4 can be solved against the closing direction X from each other.

Like, for example Fig. 18 and 19 can be seen, a pin 31, 41 is arranged on the closure parts 3, 4, which has the shape of a circle segment in cross-section and engages in a corresponding recess on the respective other closure part 4, 3. When transferring the closure parts 3, 4 in the closed position ( Figs. 19A to 19C ), the pins 31, 41 of the closure parts 3, 4 are attached to each other and thus form a physical pivot axis S, around which the closure parts 3, 4 for opening the closure device, as in Figs. 21A to 21C represented, can be pivoted to each other.

In order to define the pivot axis S, instead of the pins 31, 41 or in addition also circular arc concentric with the pivot axis S arranged pivot guides on the first closure part 3 and second closure member 4 may be arranged which define a circular arc-shaped guide about the pivot axis S. In other words, the pivot axis S is not formed as a physical axis, but by arcuate guides spaced from the pivot axis S.

In modification of the basis of Fig. 18 to 21 described embodiment is also conceivable to provide more than two connection modules 1, 2 on each closure part 3, 4, which are arranged for example on a circle about the pivot axis S. By pivoting the closure parts 3, 4 relative to one another, the connection modules 1, 2 can then be brought out of their closed position and opened in order to release the mechanical latching of the closure parts 3, 4 for opening the closure device.

In the Fig. 18 to 21 illustrated embodiment of a closure device can be used, for example, for connecting straps or ropes, but also for closing pockets or lids or the like, and allows a connection of two components with secure hold and high transferable load forces.

An embodiment of a closure device which realizes the invention FIGS. 22 to 26 , The closure device can be advantageously used for connecting two straps, for example as a buckle for closing a chin strap of a protective helmet, z. B. a ski helmet.

The embodiment of the closure device according to FIGS. 22 to 26 Functionally corresponds to the closure device according to Fig. 1 to 7 , Correspondingly, two connection modules 1, 2 are provided, which can be attached to one another in a closing direction X for closing the closure device ( Figs. 23A to 23C ) and in a closed position via a positive engagement of a locking piece 13 and a spring locking element 24 are mechanically locked together ( Figs. 24A to 24C ). For opening, the first connection module 1 can be displaced in the opening direction Y relative to the second connection module 2 ( Figs. 25A to 25C ) so as to push the locking piece 13 laterally out of the spring locking element 24 ( Figs. 26A to 26C ).

For connecting two straps, a belt connection 14, 25 in the form of longitudinal bars is provided on the first connection module 1 and on the second connection module 2, around which a belt can be laid (wound).

At the first connection module 1, two guide tracks are formed laterally of the locking piece 13 through recesses 15A, 15B, in which projections 26A, 26B of the second connection module 2 come to lie in the closed position ( Fig. 24C . 25C ). Via the recesses 15A, 15B and the projections 26A, 26B, the first connection module 1 is longitudinally guided on the second connection module 2 in the opening direction Y, so that the opening by a guided displacement of the first connection module 1 relative to the second connection module 2 in an easy and pleasant manner can be done. The engagement of the projections 26A, 26B in the recesses 15A, 15B also allows a secure hold of the closure device with adjacent belt forces acting on the Gurtanbindungen 14, 25 and acting transversely to the closing direction X and across the opening direction Y act.

The idea underlying the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but can in principle also be used in completely different embodiments. In particular, a closure device of the type described can be used in a wide variety of areas, for example for closing bags, for connecting straps, lines or the like or for coupling other components.

The individual components of the closure device (with the exception of the magnetic means) may for example be made of plastic.

Instead of a displacement movement can also be provided to release the first connection module by turning from the second connection module. The opening direction corresponds in this case to a direction of rotation, wherein the guide section is directed with at least one direction vector component counter to this direction of rotation.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

connecting module

10

magnet

11

catch projection

12

cover

13

locking piece

14

Belt Attachment

15A, 15B

recess

2

connecting module

20

magnet

21

plug receptacle

210

plug opening

211

recess

212

Through opening

22

recess

23

baseplate

230

formation

231

retaining element

24

spring washer

240

catch projection

240A, 240B

guide section

241

recess

242.243

recess

25

Belt Attachment

26A, 26B

head Start

3.4

closing part

31.41

spigot

α, β

angle

A

offset

D

central axis

F

direction vector

FX, FY

Direction vector component

S

pan direction

V

offset

X

closing direction

Y

opening direction

Claims (10)

1. Closure device for connecting two parts with

   - a first connecting module (1) and a second connecting module (2), wherein the first connecting (1) module can be arranged on the second connecting module (2) in a closing direction (X) and is mechanically latched with the second connecting module (2) in a closing direction, and

   - magnetic means (4, 8), which establish a magnetic force of attraction between the first connecting module (1) and the second connecting module (2) for assisting the transfer of the first connecting module (1) into the closing position, wherein the first connecting module (1) can be released from the second connecting module (2) by a movement of the first connecting module (1) or a part of the first connecting module (1) in an opening direction (Y), which differs from the closing direction (X), wherein

   a blocking piece (13) is arranged on the first connecting module (1) and a spring locking element (24; 24A, 24B) for establishing the form fit mechanical latching is arranged on the second connecting module (2) and the spring locking element (24; 24A, 24B) and the blocking piece (13) can be moved towards each other for releasing the first connecting module (1) from the second connecting module (2) such that the spring locking element (24; 24a, 24b) reaches out of the area of the at least one blocking piece (13) along the opening direction (Y), and wherein
   at least one guiding section (240A, 240B) arranged on the second connecting module (2) for guiding the first connecting module (1) into the closing position when arranging the first connecting module (1) on the second connecting module (2) is provided, wherein the at least one guiding section (240A, 240B) is directed against the opening direction (Y) at least with one directional vector component (FY),
   characterized in that
   two guiding paths are formed by recesses (15A, 15B) on the first connecting module (1), wherein in said guiding paths in the closed position projections (26A, 26B) of the second connecting module (2) are placed, wherein the first connecting module (1) is lateral guided on the second connecting module (2) in the opening direction (Y) via the recesses (15A, 15B) and the projections (26A, 26B).
2. Closure device according to claim 1, characterized in that the guiding section (240A, 240B) is arranged on a spring locking element (24; 24A, 24B) of a second connecting module (2).
3. Closure device according to anyone of the claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the blocking piece (13) of the first connecting module (1) is essentially designed rotationally symmetrically and has a latching projection (11) for mechanically latching with a latching projection (240) of the spring locking element (24) of the second connecting module (2).
4. Closure device according to claim 3, characterized in that the spring locking element (24) is designed circular and extends about a centre axis (D) continuing parallel to the closing direction (X) and is arranged on a connector holder (21) of the second connecting module (2).
5. Closure device according to claim 4, characterized in that the spring locking element (24) is opened sectionally in circumferential direction for realising a recess (241).
6. Closure device according to claim 5, characterized in that the spring locking element (24) is arranged torque-proofed on a connector holder (21) of the second connecting module (2), wherein the recess (241) is arranged in opening direction (Y) if looked at from the centre axis (D).
7. Closure device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the blocking piece (13) of the first connecting module (1) extends essentially in a lateral direction with an angle to the closing direction and has a latching projection (11) for mechanically latching with a latching projection (240) of a spring locking element (24A, 24B) of the second connecting module (2).
8. Closure device according to anyone of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring locking element (24) encompasses in the locking position the blocking piece (13) extensively such that a spring force of the spring locking element (24) has to be overcome for releasing the connecting modules (1, 2) from each other.
9. Closure device according to anyone of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnetic means (4, 8) are formed by a magnet (4, 8) arranged in each case on the first connecting module (1) and the second connecting module (2) or are formed by a magnet (4, 8) on one side and a magnetic anchor on the other side.
10. Closure device according to anyone of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnetic means (4, 8) are designed such that the magnetic attraction force between the first connecting module (1) and the second connecting module (2) is weakened by the movement of the first closing member (1) in the opening direction (Y)

Images