EP3165119B1 - Clasp - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a clasp for releasable load coupling of two elements, in particular by means of two textile bands. In particular, the clasp according to the invention can be used for a wearable object, in particular a ballistic protective vest.

Such a clasp for a ballistic vest is from the document WO 2013/119294 A1 known. The clasp has two closing bodies, each of which has a connecting region, via which a textile band can be connected to the closing body, and a coupling region, via which the closing bodies can be positively coupled to one another. Furthermore, the closing body in the coupled position are releasably locked together by a locking element. As a connection region for connection to the textile bands, a web is provided in each case, around which the textile band can be guided. As a coupling region, the one closing body has a C-shaped clip which extends in the width direction. The coupling region of the other closing body is formed by a rod which is inserted only laterally in the C-shaped clip and one from the open End of the C-shaped clip protruding bridge is connected to the connection area.

However, this clasp is relatively difficult to use and in particular difficult to open and close. Furthermore, the clasp builds relatively long, so valuable space, which could otherwise be used to attach other items is lost.

A clasp according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from DE 37 36 254 A1 known. As a locking element here a magnet is used.

Further closing is from the documents DE 29 01 252 A1 . EP 923 887 A2 . US 4 682 389 A . US 3 293 714 A and US 5,664,298 A known.

The object of the present invention is to provide an easier-to-use clasp. Preferably, the clasp thereby has the shortest possible design.

This object is achieved by a clasp according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

The present invention comprises a buckle for detachable load coupling of second elements, in particular for a wearable object, in particular for a ballistic protective vest. The clasp has a first and a second closing body, wherein the closing body each have a connection region, via which one of the elements is connectable to the closing body, and a coupling region, via which the closing body can be positively coupled to each other on. Furthermore, the closing body in the coupled position are releasably locked together by a locking element. According to the invention, it is provided that the coupling regions of the closing bodies are each formed by a hook profile extending in the width direction are, wherein the hook profiles of the closing body are designed to be complementary and engage in the coupled position of the closing body. The inventive design of the coupling regions as hook profiles has the advantage that the clasp can be opened and / or closed considerably more easily. Furthermore, the design of the coupling areas as hook profiles allows a very short design. According to the present invention, the locking element has an elastic locking arm which locks with at least one locking edge serving as a counter element. Furthermore, the lock can be released by train on an actuator. For example, may be provided as an operating element a cord loop.

Preferably, the clasp can be closed by a telescoping of the hook profiles in the load direction and / or opened by pushing the hook profiles apart against the load direction. This makes it possible to open the clasp even under load, since the opening movement and the movement required to relieve the clasp in this opening possibility run in the same direction and not perpendicular to one another as in the prior art.

Preferably, the width direction of the clasp is a first direction of the closed clasp, which is perpendicular to the load direction. The thickness direction is preferably a second direction of the closed buckle, which is perpendicular to the width direction and the load direction. The hook profiles extend in the width direction along each other, and have in profile, i. in the thickness plane, a hook shape on. The length direction of the clasp corresponds to the load direction.

In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the hook profiles extend over the entire width of the clasp. This allows an alternative opening or closing of the clasp by a lateral telescoping of the hook profiles in the width direction. For this purpose, the hook profiles on the side preferably on starting slopes, which facilitate a lateral telescoping.

Alternatively or additionally, the width of the hook profiles may be greater than the maximum thickness of the entire, formed by the two coupled closure body buckle. Due to the corresponding width of the hook profiles, a high load transfer via the clasp is possible despite the small thickness. Preferably, the width of the hook profiles is greater than the maximum thickness of the clasp. Preferably, the width of the hook profiles is more than 1.3 times the maximum thickness of the clasp, more preferably more than 2 times.

Further alternatively or additionally, the width of the hook profiles may be more than 0.5 times the length of the buckle in the load direction. Again, the width of the hook profiles allows a high load capacity of the clasp, the design allows as a hook profiles a very short design. Preferably, the width of the hook profiles is greater than the length of the clasp in the load direction.

In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the connection region may be at least one web about which a textile tape can be guided. In particular, the textile tape can be guided around the web in the form of a loop, wherein the textile tape is preferably sewn together to form the loop.

Alternatively, the connection area may be at least one plate. In particular, this plate can be used to be riveted to one of the elements to be coupled. For this purpose, the plate preferably has at least one and preferably a plurality of openings through which the rivets can pass.

Preferably, the web and / or the plate, which or which forms the connection area, runs perpendicular to the load direction of the clasp. This ensures a particularly good power transmission. Alternatively or additionally, the web and / or the plate may extend in the width direction of the clasp. In particular, the webs and / or plates of the closing body in the coupled position parallel to each other and / or parallel to the extension direction of the hook profiles. This provides a buckle with a short and relatively thin design. If a plate is used, this preferably extends in the width direction and in the length direction of the clasp.

Preferably, the coupling portions of the buckle according to the invention in the profile each have a hook arm and a hook tip, wherein the hook tip forms the free end of the hook and in profile via a bend or fold with the hook arm and via this with the connection region of the closing body in connection.

In each case, the hook tip preferably forms a blocking edge extending in the width direction, and the hook arm and the hook tip form an inlet channel extending in the width direction.

In the coupled position of the clasp, the locking edges of the two closing bodies preferably rest in the inlet channels of the respective other closing body. This ensures a very good power transmission and high load capacity. Preferably, the opening side of the inlet channel is aligned against the load direction, d. H. the locking edges are inserted with a movement in the load direction in the inlet channel.

In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the width of the blocking edge is greater than the length of the blocking edge, ie the extension of the blocking edge in the width direction is greater than its extension in the length direction. Preferably, the extent is twice as large and in particular more than four times as large. Alternatively or additionally, the width of the inlet channel may be greater than the depth of the inlet channel. In particular, the width can be twice as large and in particular more than four times as large as depth. This also provides a solid by the extension in the width direction, provided by the small depth or length but very short clasp available.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the coupling areas in the coupled position are each supported by an inner surface of the hook tip facing the hook arm for load transfer. As a result, a high power transmission is possible. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that in each case one remote from the hook arm outer surface of the hook tip of a coupling region is supported on an inner surface of the hook arm of the other coupling region. As a result, the one coupling region is also supported against the load direction on the other coupling region.

Preferably, the inner surfaces of the hook tip, which are supported on each other, in a coupled position obliquely to the load direction of the clasp. Preferably, the hooking angle formed thereby is between 45 and 85 degrees, more preferably between 50 degrees and 70 degrees to the load direction.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hook tip has a wedge shape in profile. Alternatively or additionally, the inside of the hook tip together with the inside of the hook arm forms a wedge-shaped inlet channel. Due to the wedge shape a particularly simple telescoping of the hook profiles in the load direction is possible. Preferably, the wedge angle of the hook tip and / or the inlet channel is between 1 degree and 30 degrees, more preferably between 5 degrees and 20 degrees.

Preferably, the locking element locks the closing body automatically when closing each other. In particular, the locking takes place automatically when telescoping the hook profiles. For this purpose, the locking element can be designed to be elastic and initially deformed upon insertion of the two hook profiles into each other and then spring back in the coupled position in a Verrieglungsposition.

Preferably, the lock can be solved without thereby the load transfer is achieved via the coupling of the closing body. In particular, the release of the lock can be independent of the opening movement of the clasp, by which the two closing bodies are moved out of their coupling position, take place. So it is possible, first only to release the lock, and only at a later date, the coupling of the closing body and thus the load transfer.

In this case, the locking arm can engage in a locked position in a recess whose wall or walls serve as a locking edge.

Alternatively or additionally, the locking arm can lock both with a load on the buckle against the load direction as well as with a lateral load in the width direction with a counter edge. The respective mating edges can be formed by the walls of a corresponding recess.

Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the locking arm wedged against the load direction with a locking edge at a load of the buckle. For this purpose, the locking edge or the locking arm may have a run-on slope. Preferably, the run-up slope at an angle between 65 degrees and 100 degrees, more preferably between 75 and 90 degrees to the central axis of the hook tip.

Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the locking edge of the locking arm, which locks against a load on the buckle against the load direction, is formed by laterally arranged on the locking arm wings. These wings preferably engage in a groove-shaped recess, so that a wall region of the groove-shaped recess serves as a locking edge. In particular, can be arranged laterally in the walls of a larger recess into which engages the locking arm, grooves with which lock the wings.

Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the locking of the locking arm is relieved with the locking edge at a load on the buckle in the load direction and thereby easier from the locking position is movable. This also makes it possible to easily open the clasp under load.

Furthermore, according to the invention it can be provided that the locking element and in particular the locking arm is arranged on one of the two closing bodies and locked with a counter element arranged on the other closing body, in particular a locking edge arranged on the other closing body. In particular, the counter element may be an edge of a recess arranged in the other closing body.

Preferably, the locking element is arranged in the region of the outer surface of the hook tip of a closing element. In particular, the locking arm can be in the region of the free end of the hook tip in connection with this and otherwise be separated by recesses of the outer surface. It is preferably provided that the locking arm protrudes in profile from the outer surface. As a result, the locking arm engages in the locked position preferably in a recess of the other closing element, and locks with the walls of this recess. In this case, the locking arm preferably has an S-shape with which, starting from a foot region which is flush with the outer surface of the hook tip, it merges into a head region protruding from the outer surface.

Alternatively or additionally, the counter element can be arranged in the region of the inside of the hook arm of the other closing element. Preferably, the counter element is formed by a recess of the inner surface of the hook arm. In particular, the recess may pass through the material of the hook arm and / or be open to the connection area.

It is preferably provided that the actuating element and in particular the cord loop is deflected. As a result, regardless of the direction in which the actuating element is pulled, the locking mechanism can be reliably released. In particular, the deflection can be done via a implementation, by which is passed through the actuating element. In this case, the actuating element may preferably be passed through a connection arranged in the closing body between the connection with the locking element and a handle region, on which the actuating element is used for releasing. In particular, the implementation may be arranged in an outer side of the hook arm. Preferably, this outer side of the hook arm is spaced from the locking element and in particular the locking arm.

Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that a surface of the closing body which is at a distance from the locking element serves as a stop for the locking element. Preferably, the stop is formed by a wall of a passing through the bend or fold of the hook profile recess. The stopper prevents the locking element and in particular the locking arm from being damaged by excessive pulling on the actuating element.

Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the locking element designed as a locking arm has a passage through which the actuating element can be connected to the locking arm. Further alternatively or additionally, a spaced from the locking arm surface of the closing body and in particular the stopper also have a passage through which the actuating element is passed and thereby forms a deflection.

Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, a grip element may be provided in the grip region of the actuating element. The actuating element according to the invention may in particular be a cord loop, wherein the cord is passed through corresponding passages of the closing body. Further preferably, the cord of the cord loop is connected to the handle element, and may for example by a passage in the handle element be passed. The cord loop may be further connected to a shrink tube to a strand.

Preferably, the closing bodies according to the invention are characterized by the coupling regions designed as hook profiles by a movement in the load direction, d. H. by a movement with a running in the load direction movement share, coupled together. Such a movement in the load direction has the advantage that the closing body can be easily coupled together. In addition, a high stability of the connection is ensured because the hooks engage in one another by the movement in the load direction and can thus absorb high forces in the direction of load in the coupled position.

When coupling, the coupling regions preferably hook into one another at an acute angle to the load direction. This can be achieved in particular by an inventive design of the hook profiles with a sharp hook angle.

In a preferred, but not necessary embodiment of the present invention, the closing bodies can also be coupled to one another in the width direction by telescoping the hook-shaped coupling areas. Such a lateral Einschiebbarkeit in this preferred embodiment is another possibility of closing the clasp, and may also serve to clean the inlet channel.
Furthermore, it can be provided according to the invention that the closing body can be detached from one another by a movement counter to the load direction, ie by a movement which has a portion running counter to the load direction. The movement is preferably opposite to the coupling movement. Again, there is a simplified solubility of the clasp. Preferably, the coupling areas when decoupling hook apart at an obtuse angle against the load direction, which in turn is made possible by a corresponding configuration of the hook profiles with a sharp hook angle.

Again, in a preferred embodiment, which is not necessarily realized, a release of the closing of each other also take place by a sliding apart of the hook-shaped coupling regions in the width direction. In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the locking element and the counter element associated with the locking element are arranged centrally in the widthwise direction on the clasp. In particular, when the locking element and the counter element are arranged in the region of the hook tip and / or the hook arm, the load capacity of the hook profile is weakened in this area. The central arrangement ensures that sufficient hook profile is still available on both sides of the locking element or of the counter element in order to ensure stable load transmission. Furthermore, a uniform force distribution in the width direction is guaranteed.

Alternatively or additionally, the closing bodies may be symmetrical in the width direction with respect to a median plane. This also allows a uniform, symmetrical force distribution.

As an alternative or in addition, the hook arm and the hook tip can have recesses in the width region of the locking element or of the counter element. As a result, material can be saved in an area which has no highlighted function for load transfer anyway. Furthermore, it can be provided that the hook arm of the hook profiles has reinforcing ribs on its rear side. As a result, the power transmission is ensured at the same time low material usage. In addition, the manufacturability is simplified because there are smaller wall thicknesses.

Further alternatively or additionally, the webs forming the connecting portions of the closing body can each be connected on both sides with an extension of the respective hook arm, wherein between the trailing edge of the hook arm and the web a recess is provided through which a textile tape can be guided.

As an alternative or in addition, the plates forming the connection regions can each form an extension of the respective hook arm. A recess between the trailing edge and the plate is not necessary in this case. Rather, the plate can connect directly to the trailing edge of the hook arm.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the closing bodies are each formed in one piece. In particular, the connection regions and the coupling regions are formed in one piece. Further preferably, the locking element and the counter-element are formed integrally with the respective closing body.

The closing bodies may preferably be injection-molded parts. Alternatively or additionally, the closing body can be made of plastic.

Particularly preferably, the clasp according to the invention with more than 50 kg static load. Further preferably, the static load capacity is more than 100 kg, more preferably more than 150 kg. The closure construction according to the invention allows a very high load capacity with very low dimensions, and in particular with only a very short length.

The clasp according to the invention preferably has a width of more than 2.5 cm and more preferably of more than 4 cm. If larger forces are to be transmitted, the width can also be increased accordingly. Preferably, the clasp has a length of less than 5 cm, in particular less than 4 cm. The buckle according to the invention is particularly compact, especially in the length direction. Further preferably, the clasp has a thickness of less than 3 cm, and more preferably less than 2.5 cm. The buckle according to the invention achieves the above-described, very high static load capacities with these dimensions.

In addition to the clasp according to the invention, the present invention further comprises a wearable article having a clasp as described above. In particular, the object that can be worn on the body can be a ballistic protective vest. Alternatively, it can also be a backpack or a piece of equipment.

In this case, the article preferably has at least two elements, one of which is in each case connected to a connecting region of one of the closing bodies. The two elements of the article can thus be releasably connected to one another via the buckle according to the invention. The connection with the clasp can be made in particular by means of textile bands.

The article is preferably attachable or securable to the body by closing the clasp, and releasable from the body by opening the clasp.

In particular, the article according to the invention may be a ballistic protective vest, which has a front part and a back part, which communicate with one another in the shoulder area and / or laterally. The connection between the front part and the back part is preferably carried out by at least one clasp according to the invention.

The connection is preferably carried out at least on one side both in the shoulder region and laterally by at least one buckle according to the invention. Preferably, the connection takes place on both sides both in the shoulder region and laterally by at least one buckle according to the invention.

Preferably, textile tapes are connected to the back part or the front part in conjunction and thus enable the connection via the buckle according to the invention. According to the invention, further equipment can be arranged on the textile tapes in a preferred embodiment. The short length of the buckle according to the invention allows an arrangement of a variety of equipment. The textile bands can, for example. At the Sewn front and / or back part and preferably be releasably attached to the other part, for example. Be guided by a tunnel and / or a fastener.
In particular, a waist belt can be provided, which has closing bodies on both sides and is guided from one side to the other side through a tunnel. The abdominal belt can have an elastic region, preferably within the tunnel. Furthermore, shoulder straps may be provided, which are passed through for length adjustment by a fastener and form a Velcro an adjustable loop.

Alternatively, it is conceivable to rivet one or both closing bodies directly with the front part or the back part.

The present invention will now be described with reference to an embodiment and drawings.

Fig. 1:

zwei perspektivische Ansichten eines Ausführungsbeispieles der erfindungsgemäßen Schließe bei einer Koppelungsbewegung in Lastrichtung,

Fig. 2:

zwei perspektivische Ansichten des Ausführungsbeispiels der erfindungsgemäßen Schließe bei einer Koppelung in Breitenrichtung,

Fig. 3:

drei perspektivische Ansichten des ersten Schließenkörpers der erfindungsgemäßen Schließe mit dem Verriegelungselement,

Fig. 4:

drei perspektivische Ansichten des zweiten Schließenkörpers der erfindungsgemäßen Schließe mit einer das Gegenelement bildenden Aussparung,

Fig. 5:

eine Draufsicht der erfindungsgemäßen Schließe in gekoppelter Stellung,

Fig. 6:

Schnitte durch die Ebenen B-B und D-D in Fig. 5 und

Fig. 7:

Schnitte durch die erfindungsgemäße Schließe in Ebenen C-C und A-A in Fig. 5.

Showing:

Fig. 1:

two perspective views of an embodiment of the clasp according to the invention in a coupling movement in the load direction,

Fig. 2:

two perspective views of the embodiment of the buckle according to the invention in a coupling in the width direction,

3:

3 perspective views of the first closing body of the clasp according to the invention with the locking element,

4:

3 perspective views of the second closing body of the clasp according to the invention with a counter element forming recess,

Fig. 5:

a top view of the clasp according to the invention in a coupled position,

Fig. 6:

Cuts through the planes BB and DD in Fig. 5 and

Fig. 7:

Cuts through the clasp according to the invention in planes CC and AA in Fig. 5 ,

The figures show an embodiment of a clasp according to the invention. The buckle according to the invention can be used for the load coupling of components, in particular for the load coupling of objects that can be worn on the body. For this purpose, the buckle according to the invention is designed in two parts, and has a first closing body 1 and a second closing body 2.

Both closing bodies each have a connection region 3 for connection to a textile band. In the embodiment, webs 3 are provided, around which the textile band can be guided around. The webs 3 run in the embodiment in the width direction of the clasp perpendicular to the load direction of the clasp. Alternatively, plates could also be used as connection areas, via which the closing bodies are riveted to a textile band or directly to an element to be coupled. Other embodiments of the connection area are conceivable. In this case, the connecting regions of the two closing bodies can be identical or different.

The coupling between the two closing bodies takes place by mutually interlocking hook geometries. The two closing bodies each have a hook profile extending in the width direction, wherein the hook profiles engage in one another in the coupled position of the closing bodies and thus couple the two closing bodies to one another.

In the exemplary embodiment, the hook profiles 4 each have a hook tip 5, which via a bend or fold 7 with the hook arm 6 in connection stand. The hook arm 6 is in turn connected to a connecting portion 3. The interlocking hook tips thus provide a load coupling, wherein the load is transmitted from the hook tips 5 via the hook arms 6 to the connecting portions 3.

By the extension of the hook profiles 4 in the width direction, d. H. Parallel to the course of the connecting regions 3 forming webs, the hook tips 5 each form locking edges, and the hook tips 5 together with the hook arms 6 inlet channels, in which engages the locking edge of the respective other closing part.

During the coupling of the clasp an automatic locking of the two closing body, which prevents accidental release of the two closing body from each other. For this purpose, the first closing body 1 has a locking element 8, which engages in a recess 24 of the second closing body 2 for locking. The locking element is designed in the embodiment as a resilient lock.

The coupling of the clasp is possible in the embodiment shown in the figures in two directions, which in Fig. 1 and 2 are shown. As a first option, the two closing bodies can be coupled in the load direction of the hook geometry. For this purpose, a hook profile with a movement which corresponds to the hook angle of the hook profile and therefore has a share in the load direction, inserted into the other hook profile. Fig. 1 shows a state of the two closing body just before the complete insertion and coupling of the hook profiles with each other.

A second way of coupling is in Fig. 2 shown. The two hook profiles can be inserted laterally into one another. For this purpose, the locking edges 5 of the hook profiles are inserted laterally into the inlet grooves 9 of the hook profiles and then pushed the two closing bodies in the width direction into one another. In order to allow easier lateral insertion, the two closing body on lateral chamfers 12. The run-up slope on the second closing body also ensures that the locking element of the first closing body is pushed into the surface of the profile when pushed into each other. In order to ensure the lateral insertion of the hook profiles and the coupling in the load direction, the hook profile in the width direction is uniform, ie the given in a plane perpendicular to the width hook profile has up to the central interruption by the locking elements over its extension in the width direction, the same profile , Furthermore, the outer and inner surfaces of the hook tip and the inner surface of the hook arm are made smooth in profile direction. This ensures easy insertion both in the width direction and in the load direction.

However, such a configuration of the profiles is not mandatory for the realization of the present invention. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, which is not shown, for example, the lateral Einschiebbarkeit the hook profiles could be dispensed with. In this case, the hook profiles could have widthwise varying profile shapes, or be closed laterally. By way of example, a surface of the coupling regions that is corrugated in the width direction is also conceivable. Although in a plane perpendicular to the width direction, the superimposed surfaces of the coupling regions are preferably made smooth, to allow easy insertion into each other. However, this is not mandatory. Again, for example, reinforcements or grooves could be provided to enhance the self-coupling.

The configuration of the locking element 8 and the counter element forming recess 24 is in Fig. 3 and 4 to recognize closer. The locking element 8 and the counter-element 24 is respectively integrated in the closing body. In the exemplary embodiment, the coupling element 8 and the recess 24 are in the respective coupling regions of the closing body, and thus come automatically in blocking when coupling. The unlocking of the locking element is independent of the decoupling of the two closing body from each other possible.

In the exemplary embodiment, the locking element and the counter element are arranged centrally in the respective coupling region with respect to the width direction of the clasp, so that parts of the hook profile which serve for load transmission remain on both sides.

How out Fig. 3 To recognize more closely, the locking element 8 is designed as a locking arm, which is arranged in the outer surface 13 of the hook tip 5. In this case, the locking arm 8 is in its foot with the front edge 16 of the hook tip 5 in conjunction, and extends along the outer surface 13 of the hook tip 5. Except in the foot area of the locking arm 8 is separated by recesses in the material of the hook tip. The free upper edge of the hook arm terminates in the region of the upper edge of the bend 7, with which the hook tip 5 is in communication with the hook arm 6.

The acting as a counter element to the locking arm 8 recess 24 is accordingly arranged in the inner surface 15 of the hook arm 6 of the second closing body 2. In the exemplary embodiment, the recess 24 passes completely through the material of the hook arm 6.

The locking between the locking arm 8 and the recess 24 takes place in that the locking arm 8 protrudes from the outer surface 13 of the hook tip 5. When coupling the two closing elements together, the locking arm 8 is first deformed, and then springs in the coupled position in the recess 24. In the exemplary embodiment, the locking arm 8 while an S-shape.

The locking between the locking arm 8 and recess 24 takes place in the lateral direction through the side walls of the locking arm 8 and the side walls 25 of the recess 24, which lock together. For blocking against movement against the load direction, however, lateral wings 17 are provided on the locking arm 8, which engage in grooves 26 in the side walls 25 of the recess 24. The wings 17 have chamfers, over which the Locking arm is deflected in a coupling in the load direction, before the wings engage in a coupled position in the grooves 26.
By this locking by side wings, the recess 24 may be open in the rearward direction, which simplifies the production. In an alternative, not shown embodiment, however, the recess 24 could also be made closed, so that a rear wall of the recess would lock with an upper edge of the locking arm.

To open the clasp, the lock must first be released, which is done by lifting the locking arm 8 from the recess 24. The raising of the locking arm 8 from the recess initially has no effect on the load coupling of the two closing body through the hook profiles, but allows the telescoping of the hook profiles for releasing the coupling by a separate movement.

For raising the locking arm from the recess, the first closing element 1 with the locking arm 8 has a passage 10 for the actuating element used for lifting, which is not shown in the drawings. This actuating element is preferably a cord loop, which is connected to the locking element via the recesses 11 and is deflected through the passage 10. As a result, the direction of the unlocking movement is independent of the direction of movement of the locking element serving as a lock.

The bushings 10 are arranged in the embodiment in a locking arm 8 opposite the back 21 of the hook arm. The closing body has an opening 20 passing through the bend 7, the rear side 21 of the hook arm facing the locking arm 8 via the opening 20. The inside of this opening forms a stop for the hook arm, so that it can not be damaged by pulling on the actuator, since the maximum deflection limited by the stop becomes. In the area of the stop and the implementation 10 is provided for the actuator.

Due to the closing geometry according to the invention a release of the clasp is possible even under load. In this case, the force for unlocking the locking element under load of the clasp is even reduced by the alignment of the lock forming locking surfaces to the load direction. Because under load, the upper edge of the serving as a barrier wings 17 is moved away from the inner edge of the groove 26 so that unlocking is facilitated.

In attempting to forcibly release the closing parts against the locking, in the coupled state, a buckling and / or jamming of the locking element 8 in the recess 24 or the wing 17 in the groove 26 prevents the clasp from being opened. Forcible unlocking is thus prevented.

The release of the coupling can in turn be done in two different directions, d. H. by a decoupling against the load direction of the hook profiles, or by a lateral pushing out of the hook profiles. Again, embodiments are conceivable in which the decoupling takes place exclusively against the load direction of the hook geometry.

However, the possibility of lateral insertion and removal of the hook geometry according to the invention has the additional advantage that this makes it possible to clean the hook geometries, since dirt remaining in the hook profiles is laterally pushed out of the hook profile.

The connecting areas serving as webs 3 are on both sides with lateral extensions 23 of the hook arms 6 in connection. In this case, located between the trailing edge of the hook arms and the webs 3 is a passage for carrying a textile tape, for example a belt. The shape of the webs 3 and the passage 29, which was chosen in the embodiment, is in particular from the sectional views in Fig. 6 seen. The webs 3 are included executed rod-shaped. In profile, the webs are equipped to the inside with an edge around which the band is placed. On the outside they have a reinforcing rib.
The hook profiles have in their central region, in which the locking arm or serving as a counter-element recess, further recesses 27 and 28, respectively. In particular, the hook arm of the first closing body has a recess 28 in a region arranged in the width direction at the level of the locking arm 8 in order to save material and to avoid unnecessarily thick areas. The closing body 2 also has a recess 27 in the area of the hook tip opposite the recess 24 in the width direction. Here remains of the hook tip only a front and a rear edge, which limit the recess 27. The recesses can be arranged here, since the middle region of the clasp serves less the power transmission than the lock.

In the two outer regions in the width direction a continuous hook profile is provided, since the load transfer takes place here. The tip of the hook is made massive in this area in the embodiment. The hook arm has on its back in the exemplary embodiment on stiffening ribs in order to achieve a high load capacity, without using unnecessarily large wall thicknesses. In these lateral areas of the hook arm is separated from the connecting element only by a narrow channel through which the textile belt is guided.

The angular relationships of the buckle according to the invention will now be described with reference to FIGS Fig. 6 and 7 shown sectional views in planes perpendicular to the width direction described in more detail. The position of the respective cutting planes is in the plan view in Fig. 5 seen.

Fig. 6 shows in the upper view a section along the plane BB, that is, in a load-transmitting portion of the clasp. In the exemplary embodiment, this is a region arranged laterally of the middle area serving for the locking.

How out Fig. 6 can be seen, the hook tips 5 each have a wedge shape. The wedge angles A1 and A2 of the two hook tips serve for centering and for easier insertion of the hook profiles into one another. The inner surface 14 of the hook tip 5 forms, together with the inner side 15 of the hook arm 6 a wedge-shaped inlet funnel, which is designed to be complementary to the wedge-shaped hook tip. By extending in the width direction, the hook tip 5 thus forms a wedge-shaped locking edge, the inner sides 14 and 15 of the hook tip and the hook arm a wedge-shaped inlet channel.

In the exemplary embodiment, the wedge angles A1 and A2 hook tips of the first and the second closing body are identical. However, in alternative embodiments, the wedge angles could also be chosen differently. The wedge angle is preferably between 1 degree and 30 degrees, more preferably between 5 degrees and 20 degrees, further preferably between 10 and 15 degrees. In the exemplary embodiment, the wedge angle is 12.5 degrees.

The load direction is in Fig. 6 shown as line 30, and passes through the respective centers of the connecting portions 3 with coupled clasp. The width direction is perpendicular to the load direction along the extension direction of the connecting portions 3, and thus perpendicular to the page in Fig. 6 ,

The inner sides 14 of the hook tips lie in a coupled position on each other and form the main load transfer area of the clasp. The inner sides are inclined at a Verhakungswinkel B to the load direction 30, wherein the Verhakungswinkel B preferably in a range between 40 degrees and 85 degrees, more preferably between 45 degrees and 80 degrees, further preferably between 50 and 70 degrees. In the exemplary embodiment, the Verhakungswinkel is 60 degrees.

Down in Fig. 6 is a section along the planes DD in Fig. 5 As can be clearly seen in this sectional view, the wings 17 are in the coupled position placed in the grooves 26, wherein an upper edge of the wings 17 comes with an upper inner edge of the groove into abutment when the buckle against the load direction is loaded. The retention angle E of the lock against unintentional release in the direction of loading of the buckle is in a range between 65 degrees and 100 degrees to the central axis of the hook tip of the first closing body. The angle is 82.5 degrees in the embodiment. In this case, the center axes of the wedge-shaped hook tips define approximately the direction in which the coupling regions attempt to separate from one another when loaded against the direction of the load.

The central axes of the two hook tips can run parallel to one another, as is the case in the exemplary embodiment. Alternatively, however, these could not run parallel to each other. The central axes preferably each have an angle to the load direction 30 between 30 and 80 degrees, preferably between 40 and 65 degrees. In the exemplary embodiment, the angle is 53.75 degrees.

The center axis angle C1 or C2 to the Verhakungswinkel B is preferably between 0 degrees and 30 degrees, more preferably between 2 degrees and 15 degrees. In the exemplary embodiment, it is 6.25 degrees.

In Fig. 7 are further sectional views along the planes CC and AA, that is, through the central region of the locking arm 8, shown. As can be seen from the section CC, the spring action of the spring arm results from a torsion spring, which results from the connection via the web-shaped front edge 16 of the hook tip to the remaining part of the hook tip, as well as by a spiral spring in the region of the locking arm itself The locking arm passes through the Contact surface 13, with which the outside of the hook tip is supported on the inside of the hook arm of the second closing body, S-shaped. The upper edge of the locking arm closes flush with the upper edge of the recess in the second closing body.

As can be seen in section A-A, the locking arm in the region of the passage 11 for the actuating element on a bulge, through which the passage 11 passes, and a recess arranged below 29, in which the deflection of the cord loop is arranged. As a result, this deflection of the cord loop is recessed and thus protected.

The buckle of the invention is generally used for load coupling of components by connecting two textile bands. Particularly preferably, the present invention is used for load coupling for objects that can be worn on the body. In particular, the clasp can serve to hold or secure the object to the body, so that the object can be removed from the body by releasing the clasp.

In particular, the article is a ballistic protective vest. This usually has a front part and a back part, which communicate with each other in the shoulder area and laterally. In the front part and the back part while protective elements are usually provided for protection from floors. These may for example be designed as plates, which are inserted into the front part or the back part. Such a protective vest must be easily detached from the body. For this purpose, preferably the back part and the front part on each side and in the shoulder region on textile bands, which are in communication with the connecting portions of the closing body. The closures serve to close the vest in the shoulder area and laterally, preferably on both sides.

The textile bands are preferably passed through the connection area and then sewn loop-like manner or looped by a hook-and-loop fastener. On the textile belt more equipment can be arranged. Due to the short design of the buckle according to the invention is here very much length available to which equipment can be attached.

The simple unlocking by pulling on the actuator, the clasp can be easily opened to remove the protective vest from the body. Closures are preferably provided on both sides.

However, the closures according to the invention could also be used for other purposes, such as for rucksacks, belts, bags or other equipment.

The buckle according to the invention has an extremely high load capacity. In the exemplary embodiment, the clasp has a width of about 5 cm, a length of about 4 cm and a thickness of about 2 cm. However, it would also be a clasp with a smaller width of about 2.5 cm with otherwise the same dimensions conceivable. The length is the maximum extent of the clasp in the load direction, the width about the maximum extent in the width direction, the thickness of the maximum extent perpendicular to the load and to the width direction.

The carrying capacity of the clasp in the exemplary embodiment is more than 150 kg. The load capacity of the clasp can be easily increased by the buckle is extended in the width direction. For example, in the width direction two adjacently arranged connection regions can be provided for connection to textile tapes, which are arranged in the width direction to the right and left of the middle region in which the locking takes place. Accordingly, the hook profiles are extended to the right and left of the locking element accordingly.

As a result, the load capacity of the clasp can be increased without changing the thickness or the length of the clasp.

As an actuating element, a cord loop is preferably used as described above. This can be connected to a handle element. Preferably, the cord loop is between the handle element and the clasp combined into a single strand via a shrink tube to prevent accidental hooking into the loop.
The clasp and / or the grip element are preferably made as injection molded plastic.

Claims (15)

1. A buckle for releasable load coupling of two elements, in particular for an object that can be worn on the human body, in particular a ballistic vest, comprising a first and a second buckle component (1, 2), wherein the buckle components (1, 2) each comprise a connection area (3) via which one of the elements is connectable to the buckle component (1, 2), and a coupling area via which the buckle components can be coupled to one another in a form-fit manner,
   wherein the buckle components (1, 2) are releasably locked to one another at the coupled position by means of a locking element (8),
   wherein the coupling areas of the buckle components (1, 2) are in each case formed by a hook profile (4) extending in the width direction, wherein said hook profiles (4) of the buckle components are configured to be complementary and interengage in the coupled position of the buckle components (1, 2), characterized in that
   the locking element (8) comprises an elastic locking arm which locks with at least one locking edge serving as a counter element, wherein the locking engagement can be released by pulling an operating element, in particular a string loop.
2. The buckle according to claim 1, wherein the hook profiles (4) extend across the entire width of the buckle, wherein the hook profiles (4) are preferably provided with lateral chamfers (12), and/or wherein the width of the hook profiles (4) is larger than the maximum thickness of the buckle, wherein the width of the hook profiles (4) is preferably more than 1.5 times as large as the maximum thickness of the buckle, further preferred more than twice as large as said thickness, and/or wherein the width of the hook profiles (4) is more than 0.5 times as large as the length of the buckle in the load direction, and further preferred larger than the length of the buckle in the load direction.
3. The buckle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connection area is at least one bar (3) around which preferably a textile strap can be wrapped, and/or wherein the connection area is at least one plate which is preferably adapted to be riveted to one of the elements, wherein the bar and/or the plate extend/extends preferably perpendicular to the load direction and/or in the width direction of the buckle, and/or wherein, preferably, the bars and/or the plates of the buckle components extend, at the coupled position, parallel to one another and/or parallel to the direction of extension of the hook profiles.
4. The buckle according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, when seen in a profile view, the coupling areas each comprise a hook arm (6) and a hook tip (5), wherein the hook tip (5) forms the free end of the hook and is connected, when seen in a profile view, to the hook arm (6) via a bend or a chamfer and, via said hook arm, to the connection area (3) of the buckle component, wherein, preferably, the hook tip (5) in each case defines a locking edge extending in the width direction, and the hook arm (6) and the hook tip (6) in each case define an insertion groove (9) extending in the width direction, wherein, at the coupled position of the buckle, the locking edges of the two buckle components rest on the insertion grooves (9) of the respective other buckle component, wherein the opening side of the insertion grooves (9) is preferably oriented in a direction opposite to the load direction, and/or wherein the width of the locking edge is preferably larger than the length of the locking edge, and/or wherein the width of the insertion groove (9) is preferably larger than the depth of the insertion groove (9), in particular more than twice as large and in particular more than four times as large.
5. The buckle according to claim 4, wherein, at the coupled position, the coupling areas rest on one another via a respective hook-tip (5) inner surface facing the hook arm (6) for the purpose of load transmission, and/or wherein a respective hook-tip (5) outer surface of one of the coupling areas, which faces away from the hook arm (6), rests on an inner surface of the hook arm (6) of the other coupling area, and/or wherein, preferably, the inner surfaces of the hook tip (5) are oriented obliquely to the load direction of the buckle at the coupled position, wherein, preferably, the hooking angle is an angle between 40° and 85°, further preferred between 50° and 70°, and/or wherein the hook tip (5), when seen in a profile view, is wedge-shaped, and/or the inner side of the hook tip (5) defines, together with the inner side of the hook arm, a wedge-shaped insertion groove (9), wherein, preferably, the wedge angle of the hook tip (5) and/or of the insertion groove (9) is an angle between 1° and 30°, further preferred between 5° and 20°.
6. The buckle according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, during closing, the buckle components (1, 2) are automatically locked to one another by the locking element (8), wherein the locking element (8) is preferably configured as an elastic element and first undergoes deformation during insertion of the two hook profiles (4) into one another, and then snaps back into a locking position at the coupled position, and/or wherein the locking can be released without releasing the load transmission via the coupling of the buckle components (1, 2).
7. The buckle according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking arm, in the locked position, is arranged in a recess (24), the wall or walls (25) of which serve as a locking edge, and/or wherein the locking arms locks with a counteredge when the buckle is applied a load in a direction opposite to the load direction as well as when it is applied a lateral load, and/or wherein the locking arm becomes wedged with a locking edge when the buckle is applied a load in a direction opposite to the load direction, the locking edge or the locking arm being preferably provided with a chamfer for this purpose, and/or wherein the locking edge of the locking arm, which locks when the buckle is applied a load in a direction opposite to the load direction, is formed by wings (17) which are arranged laterally on the locking arm, which preferably engage a groove-shaped recess (26), and in particular engage grooves arranged laterally in the walls (25) of a recess (24), and/or wherein the locking engagement between the locking arm and the locking edge is decreased, whereby the locking arm can more easily be moved out of the locking position.
8. The buckle according to one of the preceding wherein the locking element (8), and in particular the locking arm, is arranged on one of the two buckle components and locks with a counter element (25) in particular a locking edge, in particular an edge of a recess (24) which is arranged on the other buckle component, wherein, preferably, the locking element is arranged in the area of the outer surface (13) of the hook tip (5) of one of the buckle elements, wherein, further preferred, the locking arm (8) is connected to the hook tip (5) in the area of the free end of the latter and is, as for the rest, separated from the outer surface through recesses and preferably projects, when seen in a profile view, out of the outer surface (13), wherein, further preferred, the locking arm has an S-shape, and/or wherein, preferably, the counterelement is arranged in the area of the inner side (15) of the hook arm (6) of the other buckle element (2) and is preferably formed by a recess in the inner surface of the hook arm, wherein the recess preferably extends through the material of the hook arm and/or is open towards the connection area.
9. The buckle according to one of the preceding wherein the locking engagement is can be released by pulling a string loop, and/or wherein the operating element is preferably deflected, wherein the deflection is preferably effected via a through-hole (10), wherein, further preferred, the operating element is passed, between the connection with the locking element and a handling area, through a through-hole (10) arranged in the buckle component and in particular in the outer side of the hook arm (6) and is deflected therein, and/or wherein a surface of the buckle component spaced-apart from the locking element (8) serves as a stop for the locking element, wherein the stop is preferably formed by a wall of recess extending through the bend or the chamfer of the hook profile, and/or wherein, the locking element configured as a locking arm comprises a through-hole (11) via which the operating element is connectable to the locking arm, and/or wherein, a surface of the buckle component spaced-apart from the locking arm, and in particular the stop also comprise a through-hole through which the operating element is passed, and/or wherein, preferably, a handle element is provided in the handling area of the operating element.
10. The buckle according to one of the preceding wherein the buckle components (1, 2) are adapted to be coupled to one another through a movement in the load direction, wherein, during coupling, the coupling areas (4) hook into one another preferably at an acute angle to the load direction, wherein, preferably, the buckle components are also adapted to be coupled to one another by pushing the hook-shaped coupling areas (4) into one another in the width direction, and/or wherein the buckle components are adapted to be released from one another by a movement in a direction opposite to the load direction, wherein, during decoupling, the coupling areas preferably disengage from one another at an obtuse angle in a direction opposite to the load direction, wherein, preferably, the buckle components are adapted to be released from one another also by pushing the hook-shaped coupling areas (4) away from one another in the width direction.
11. The buckle according to one of the preceding wherein the locking element (8) and the counter element (24, 25) associated with the locking element are arranged centrally, when seen in the width direction, and/or wherein the buckle components are configured symmetrically with respect to a center plane, when seen in the width direction, and/or wherein the hook arm and the hook tip have recesses (27, 28) in the width area of the locking element and of the counterelement, respectively, and/or wherein the hook arm of the hook profiles (4) comprises reinforcing ribs on its back, and/or wherein the bars (3) forming the connection areas are connected on both sides thereof to an extension of the respective hook arm (6), and a recess through which a textile strap can be passed, is provided between the rear edge of the hook arm and the bar, and/or wherein the plates forming the connection areas each form an extension of the respective hook arm.
12. The buckle according to one of the preceding wherein the buckle components are each formed in one piece, preferably as an injection-molded part and/or made of plastic.
13. The buckle according to one of the preceding wherein the buckle has a static load bearing capacity of more than 50 kg, further preferably of more than 100 kg, further preferably more than 150 kg, and/or wherein the buckle has a width of more than 2.5 cm and preferably of more than 4 cm, and/or wherein the buckle has a length of less than 5 cm and preferably of less than 4 cm, and/or wherein the buckle has a thickness of less than 3 cm, and preferably of less than 2.5 cm.
14. An object that can be worn on the human body, in particular a ballistic vest, backpack or a piece of equipment, having a buckle according to one of the preceding claims.
15. An object that can be worn on the human body according to claim 14, comprising two elements, each of said elements being connected to a respective connection area (3) of one of the buckle components (1, 2), in particular via a textile strap, wherein, preferably, the object is adapted to be fastened or secured to the body by closing the buckle and to be released from the body by opening the buckle, wherein said object is preferably a ballistic vest comprising a front part and a rear part, which are interconnected in the shoulder area and on the side or sides, wherein the connection of the front part and a rear part is established by at least one buckle, wherein, preferably, the connection is established, on at least one side, by at least one respective buckle in the shoulder area as well as on the side, wherein, further preferred, the connection is established, on both sides, by at least one respective buckle in the shoulder area as well as on the sides.

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