EP3657974A1

EP3657974A1 - Retrofitting a body in order to produce compatibility with a system body

Info

Publication number: EP3657974A1
Application number: EP18746898.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Wolfgang Hohl; Johannes Starke
Original assignee: Adolf Wuerth GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Wuerth International AG; Adolf Wuerth GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2017-07-28
Filing date: 2018-07-25
Publication date: 2020-06-03
Anticipated expiration: 2038-07-25
Also published as: DE102017117185A1; DE102017117185A8; FI3657974T3; WO2019020701A1; EP3657974B1; PL3657974T3; ES2931274T3

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for designing a retrofitting device (100) for retrofitting a non-system body (102) in order to produce compatibility with a system body (10), which can be coupled to another system body (10) by means of coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44). According to the method, coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the system body (10) are identified which are required in order to produce compatibility. The retrofitting device (100) is produced with coupling structures (30`, 34`, 38´, 40`, 44`) which reproduce the identified coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44), and the non-system body (102) is connected to the retrofitting device (100) such that the non-system body (102) which is connected to the retrofitting device (100) can be coupled to the system body (10) by means of the coupling structures (30`, 34`, 38´, 40`, 44`) of the retrofitting device (100) and by means of the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the system body (10).

Description

Retrofitting a body for compatibility with system body

The invention relates to a method for designing a

Retrofitting apparatus for retrofitting a non-system body for compatibility with a system body, an assembly, a

Retrofit device and use.

From DE 10 2014 118 452 a suitcase with a body with four side walls and a bottom and an associated lid is known. This case is used to transport cargo and has a body, connected to the body or connectable lid and

Coupling structures on the body and / or on the lid, wherein in a closed state between the body and the lid, a receiving space for receiving transported material is formed from the outside inaccessible. In an open state, the receiving space is accessible from the outside. The

Coupling structures are formed, that of the suitcase and another

Coupling structures having suitcases by means of the coupling structures one above the other selectively removable vertically verschiebegesichert are stackable, or vertically undetachably coupled to each other.

The system of DE 10 2014 118 452 is a principle closed

System: Couplings are only possible between suitcases, which are also system cases. This limits the variability of the system because it is incompatible with non-system bodies.

Cases can be made in any size, ie. also with

Body heights of Im and more. For suitcases with large body heights and high loads, feet may break on the bottom of the suitcase because they can not lastingly carry the loads introduced. On the other hand, there is a risk that bends at high loads, the soil, because the ground is not designed for permanently high loads. In such suitcases feet are omitted for this reason. The bottom of the suitcase then lies flat on the ground, so that

AD: pr Feet can not break and the ground does not sag. Tools for spraying the case described are large due to the high body height, which is why the production of multiple tools should be avoided. However, system connection is not possible for these cases.

It is an object of the present invention to readily enable use of a non-system body in combination with a system body.

This object is solved by the objects with the features according to the independent claims. Further embodiments are shown in the dependent claims.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of designing a retrofit device for retrofitting a non-system body for compatibility with a system body, which system body is coupleable to another system body via interconnect structures

Coupling structures of the system body are identified, which are required (in particular essential) to establish compatibility, the

Retrofit device with the coupling structures mimicked (i.e., whose function imitating and structurally identical, similar or different) coupling structures is made, and the non-system body is connected to the retrofit device such that the with the

Retrofit device connected non-system body by means of

Coupling structures of the retrofit device and by means of

Coupling structures of the system body can be coupled to the system body.

According to a further embodiment of the present invention, an arrangement is provided which does not or not completely complete a system body which has coupling structures and which can be coupled by means of the coupling structures to coupling structures of another system body, as such with the coupling structures of the system body coupled, and has a retrofit device having coupling structures that are modeled coupling structures of the system body, which are required for establishing compatibility with the system body, wherein the non-system body and the retrofit device configured and so

be connected or connected to each other, that in the connected state by means of the coupling structures of the retrofit device and by means of

Coupling structures of the system body of non-system body connected to the retrofit device can be coupled to the system body.

According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a retrofit device for retrofitting a non-system body is provided, which as such is not or not completely (in particular not all

Coupling structures of the system body can be coupled, wherein coupling structures of the system body are formed such that the system body and another coupling structure comprising system bodies are vertically stackable against each other by means of the coupling structures stackable or vertically unrelectably coupled to each other, the retrofit device at least one retrofit body, having a connection structure for connecting to the non-system body, and having coupling structures on the retrofit body configured to be coupled to the coupling structures of the system body so as to be connected to the retrofit device

Non-system body and the system body on top of each other selectively vertically removable verschiebegesichert are stackable or vertically undetachably coupled to each other.

According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a retrofit device having the features described above for retrofitting a body (in particular a non-system body, which as such is not or not fully coupled to a system body) is used such that by connecting the retrofit device and the body in the connected Condition of the retrofitted body and a system body can be stacked on top of each other selectively vertically removable verschiebesesichert or vertically undetachably coupled to each other.

In the context of the present application is under the term

"System body" in particular understood a body with coupling structures, which is configured due to these coupling structures, with another (for example, identical or corresponding coupling structures

having system body mechanically coupled. In other words, due to correspondingly formed coupling structures, different system bodies of a system body set are set up to be mechanically connected to one another in a modular manner or in any desired combination. An example of a system body is a system case that

Having coupling structures with which the system case with a

identical other system case can be positively connected mechanically.

In the context of the present application is under the term

"Non-system body" in particular understood a body that has no or no sufficient number of coupling structures, the

Non-system body could put into position with any

System body of a set of system bodies by forming a

Form fit between corresponding coupling structures can be coupled mechanically like a module. An example of one

Non-system body is a non-system case having no coupling structures with which the non-system case has an identical other one

Non-system cases or with a system case corresponding to one

systemic coupling logic can be positively connected mechanically. A non-system body may also be a body that may partially cooperate with one system body (for example by means of coupling structures at its top) but lacking coupling structures at another (for example due to lack of coupling structures on its underside) so that it is not complete is system compatible. In the context of the present application, the term "retrofitting device" is understood in particular to mean a one-component adapter body or a multicomponent set of adapter bodies, which is or are designed or is subsequently attached to a non-system body

If necessary, to be attached to the equipped with the retrofit device non-system body in its entirety the functionality of

To lend system body. In particular, a retrofit device may be designed specifically for an existing non-system body to be shared systemically with a system body

make it compatible, in particular to make this form-fitting coupled to a system body.

In the context of the present application, the term "coupling structures" can be used in particular mechanically with one another

understood cooperative structural features of bodies that are designed for positive cooperation for coupling the body together. Such coupling structures may be, in particular, projections (for example lugs) and / or depressions (for example depressions) which may be formed inversely to one another in order to form a mechanical connection (for example by insertion, latching, locking, twisting or displacement) , Such a coupling may alternatively or in addition to a mechanical coupling as magnetic

Coupling, etc., be formed.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a retrofit device with specially designed coupling structures for connection to a (such coupling structures is not or not completely

comprising) non-system body, with which the

Non-system body can be retrofitted to this with a

System body mechanically (especially completely) to make compatible. In particular, one equipped with a retrofit device

Non-system body with respect to its coupling properties with a System body behave as a system body behaving. To achieve this, necessary or necessary coupling structures of a system body are identified or determined and then simulated on the retrofit device for a systemic coupling. This makes it possible

(in particular any) non-system body flexible for use with system bodies retrofit. By the specific identification of the for the

Producing compatibility with system bodies required

Coupling structures of a retrofit device, it is particularly possible to design the retrofit device in a minimalistic approach as small, compact and lightweight as possible, to make the non-system body system compatible while keeping the retrofit effort low. Clearly can be cut or extracted from a system body for this virtually the smallest possible portion that the

necessary coupling structures at least partially, in order to use this as a template for forming the retrofit device. When retrofitting large non-system bodies, for example receiving devices for receiving stored goods (for example a garbage bin), a retrofitting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention develops particular additional advantages. Since such large non-system bodies often have to absorb a high load, the provision of coupling structures (for example resting feet) on their bottom side frequently leads to a breakage of such

Coupling structures due to high loads. According to an exemplary

Exemplary embodiments can therefore use such coupling structures on a

Bottom side of a large non-system body can be omitted and

If necessary, by retrofitting the non-system body by means of a

Retrofit device (for example, temporarily) can be compensated. Moreover, it may be desirable to make such a (particularly large) non-system body by a single simple tool (e.g., a single injection molding tool), which results in the formation of complex coupling structures (particularly with undercuts) on the body Non-system body then may not allow. In order to be able to use such a non-system body systemically, it can be manufactured with the simple tool and then equipped or retrofitted to a small retrofit device in order to enable a connection of the non-system body to system body with a total of low production costs.

Illustratively, by means of preferably strip-shaped components of a retrofit device, a system connection of a non-system body to a system body can be created by providing these components with a

System body replicated coupling structures or system coupling elements are provided.

In the following, additional exemplary embodiments of the method, the arrangement, the retrofit device and the use will be described.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Retrofit device as at least one strip profile (in particular as two or four L-profiles or one or two U-profiles) are configured. As a strip profile a retrofit device can be made compact and lightweight, since a support structure (to which the actual coupling structures are attached or molded) of the retrofit device can be very small and easily dimensioned in this way. Vividly can by the provision of the

Retrofit device as one or more strips profiles the spatial

Extension of the retrofit device, for example, remain limited to those regions of the non-system body, in which coupling structures for establishing system capability must be mandatory.

According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one upper side component of the retrofit device may be mounted on an upper side of the

Non-system body and / or at least one lower side component of the retrofit device to be attached to a bottom of the non-system body (in particular formed as a respective strip profile). For example, can a (in particular suitcase-shaped receiving body than) non-system body on the top and / or bottom side are fitted with one or more components of the retrofit device to produce on the top and / or bottom side system capability. It is also possible to have several

Top side components and / or multiple bottom side components

provide. On the other hand, it is also possible to form the upper side component and lower side component integrally, i. to connect with each other to a common retrofit body.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the at least one upper side component and the at least one lower side component may be formed differently, in particular with different ones

Coupling structures are formed. When a system body has different coupling structures on the upper and lower sides, for designing complete system compatibility of a non-system body, designing of a top surface component and a bottom surface component of the non-system body can be performed

Retrofit device with different coupling structures of advantage.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the connection of retrofit device and non-system body by means of a

Screw connection, a rivet connection or a plug connection

be performed. The connection between retrofit device and

Non-system body can be formed in particular detachable or non-detachable.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Retrofit device can be manufactured by injection molding. This allows a cost-effective production. Such a retrofitting device can in particular be made of plastic, thus robust and lightweight.

Embodiments of the system body will be described below: According to an exemplary embodiment, the system body may be a suitcase for transporting goods to be transported. According to an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement, the coupling structures of the suitcase may be formed such that the suitcase and another coupling structures as a further system body by means of the coupling structures on one another selectively vertically detachable verschiebegesichert are stackable, or are vertically undetachably coupled to each other. According to one

exemplary embodiment of the arrangement may be a part of

Coupling structures of the case to both vertically removable

shift-assured stacking as well as vertically undoubtedly coupling with each other. According to an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement, the coupling structures of the suitcase can be designed such that the suitcase and the other suitcase can be selectively displaced relative to each other by means of the coupling structures in the state vertically coupled to one another underneath or by actuation of the

Coupling structures against each other can be verschiebesicherbar. According to an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement, a part of the coupling structures which are vertically undetachable in the one above the other

coupled state contribute to the shift securing, be formed and actuated independently of another part of the coupling structures, which contribute to the vertically removable shift secured stacking as well as to vertically undependably coupling with each other. According to one

exemplary embodiment of the arrangement may be a part of

Coupling structures, with which the suitcase and the other suitcases are stackable vertically stackable against each other stackable, in the form of locking cams on outer top edge portions of the body and in the form of

Resting feet may be formed with the locking cams in the stacked state cooperating lower side receiving openings on outer lower edge regions of the body. According to an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement, a part of the coupling structures, with which the suitcase and the other suitcases can be coupled vertically undetachably to each other in the form of guide rails on outer top edge portions of the body and in the form of coupled with the guide rails in the coupled state lower side coupling lugs on the outer lower side Be formed edge regions of the body. According to an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement, the locking cams may form part of the guide rails. According to an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement, the coupling lugs may form part of the locking feet. According to an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement, the locking feet can extend vertically beyond a bottom surface of the body down, so that the case can be placed on the resting feet on a substrate. According to an exemplary embodiment, a part of the coupling structures, with the suitcase and the other suitcase in the one above the other vertically

undeniably coupled condition against each other

verschiebesicherbar are in the form of receiving openings and thus

be formed cooperating locking slides, wherein the locking slide can be inserted in particular on the body of a suitcase in the receiving openings, in particular on the body of the other suitcase.

Corresponding system bodies are described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Non-system body as receiving body (especially suitcases), shelf, tool bench, workshop car, etc. be formed. It is thus possible to use completely different non-system bodies by means of a device according to the invention

Retrofit device to make system compatible and this subsequently the (in particular complete or unrestricted) Ability to lend to a system body.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Non-system body of resting feet should be free, in particular have a smooth or even bottom. In this way, even when storing heavy loads in the example as a receiving body for receiving stored goods

trained non-system body unwanted breaking ground-side locking feet are avoided without affecting the compatibility with a

System body must be omitted. This compatibility can be for the described non-system body can be subsequently achieved by attaching a retrofit device according to the invention.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Non-system body be molded in one piece. The non-system body can therefore be completely or partially lightweight and stable made of plastic and manufactured inexpensively by injection molding. Since the provision of coupling structures directly to the non-system body due to its

Coupling is dispensable with a retrofit device, can be sufficient for producing the non-system body with advantage a simply designed injection mold.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Coupling structures of the retrofit device be designed such that the

Non-system body including retrofit device on the one hand and the system body on the other hand (as two cooperating body) by means of these coupling structures over one another selectively vertically removable verschiebegesichert are stackable, or vertically unabnehmbar coupled to each other. In the vertically detachable but non-displaceable stacking state in a horizontal plane, it is possible for a user to lower the upper body of the coupled bodies (i.e., the non-system body together with the connected ones)

Retrofit device on the one hand and the system body on the other hand) by merely lifting vertically from the other body separates. On the other hand, in this state, however, it is impossible for one body to be displaced horizontally with respect to the other body. Alternatively, however, the bodies can also be coupled to one another in an undetachably vertical manner, that is to say they are coupled to one another in such a way that separation of the two bodies is not possible in the case of a merely vertical lifting movement. A separation of the two bodies from each other is made possible in this mode only by relative displacement of the two bodies along a horizontal direction of displacement. It is also possible that, starting from this connection condition, which is undoubtedly coupled by the application of a pure vertical force, the coupled bodies can also be placed in one Horizontal plane to be immobilized, for example, by acting perpendicular to a direction of displacement of the body fastening force is exerted, for example by means of a locking connection to then horizontal

non-slip coupling of the two bodies.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a part of the

Coupling structures of the retrofit device contribute to both the vertically removable verschiebegesichert stacking and vertically undetachably coupling with each other. In other words, a part of the coupling structures may be formed as physical structures shaped to contribute to each connection state in both the vertically detachably unlatched stacked state and the vertically unmeterably coupled state, and to one each

corresponding structural feature of the system body interact. As a result, the retrofit device is simple and compact and at the same time usable in very different operating states.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Coupling structures of the retrofit device be designed such that the

Retrofit device and the system body by means of the coupling structures in the superposed vertically undetachably coupled together state selectively against each other are displaced, or by means of operating the

Coupling structures against each other are verschiebesicherbar. By means of at least one further coupling structure on the retrofit device, a third connection state can be defined here, which in the vertically undetachably coupled state of the two bodies additionally enables them to be relatively displaced relative to one another (for example by deactivation of latching structures) or a relative displacement thereof relative to one another

impossible (for example by activating locking structures). In order to reliably secure two bodies (for example for a car journey), the two bodies can thus be reversibly locked to one another by means of the retrofitting device. According to an exemplary embodiment, a part of the coupling structures of the retrofit device, which contribute to the shift securing in the state vertically coupled to each other undetachably, may be formed and actuated independently of another part of the coupling structures of the retrofit device, which may be vertical

detachable sliding secured stacking as well as contribute to vertically undeniably coupling with each other. By making the part of the coupling structures which also vertically undetectably couples the two bodies vertically undetectable, being formed separately from another part of the coupling structures which prevents vertical detachment in the coupled state, it is possible for a user to independently determine the states of connection of the horizontal displacement safeguard or the horizontal displaceability with temporarily vertical impermeability. The structural

Separation of these coupling structures thus leads to the possibility for a user to use the two corresponding functions independently of each other.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a part of the coupling structures of the retrofit device with which the

Retrofit device and the system body over each other vertically removable verschiebegesichert stackable, in the form of locking cams on a (to be attached to an upper side of the non-system body) upper side component of the retrofit device and / or in the form of locking feet on a (on a

Underside of the non-system body to be mounted) underside component of the retrofit device be formed. Thus, arranged on an outer side of the upper side component of the retrofit device locking cams can dive into receiving openings of attached to a side wall of a system body bottom side locking feet or trained differently

Interlocking feet of the system body interact. Alternatively arranged on an upper outer side of the system body locking cams in

Receiving openings from the bottom of the underside component of the Subsequent retrofit device dipped resting feet or cooperate with differently shaped locking feet of the underside component. The multi-function locking cams can be used in different connection states of the body either for non-shiftable stacking or for

detachable coupling make a functional contribution.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a part of the coupling structures with which the retrofit device together with

Non-system body and the system body are mutually vertically undetachably coupled to each other, in the form of guide rails at least partially on a (to be attached to an upper side of the non-system body)

Upper side component of the retrofit device and / or in the form of coupling lugs interacting with guide rails in the coupled state on a (to be attached to a lower side of the non-system body)

Sub-component of the retrofit device be formed. It is on the one hand possible, the guide rails completely as part of

Form a retrofit device, in particular to provide these on one (or on a respective) upper side component of the retrofit device.

Alternatively, it is possible to complete such a guide rail only by placing the topside component of the retrofit device on the non-system body, i. partly on the retrofit device (for example by means of

Locking cams, which delimit the guide rail on the upper side) and partially on the non-system body (for example by means of a step, which the

Guide rails are limited on the underside). Thus, the locking cams can advantageously form part of the guide rails, in particular limit a guide rail on one side. This is a particularly simple embodiment of

Coupling structures achieved because the locking cams not only contribute to the stacking function, but also for vertical displacement.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Coupling noses form part of the resting feet. According to this preferred

Design wear the locking feet with their coupling lugs also to the at the described shift function. It is possible in particular, the

Coupling lugs laterally inwardly directed to the locking feet to install (see Figure 9).

According to an exemplary embodiment, a part of the coupling structures with which the non-system body connected to the retrofit device and the system body in the vertically undetachably coupled together state against each other

verschiebesicherbar, in the form of one or more receiving openings (in particular on a top side component of the retrofit device) and / or one or more locking slides (in particular on a

Sub-component of the retrofit device) may be formed. At least one locking slide of the retrofitting device can in at least one

Receiving opening of the system body be inserted. Alternatively or additionally, at least one locking slide of the system body can be inserted into at least one receiving opening of the retrofitting device. In particular, locking slides can be inserted on the retrofit device or on the system body in receiving openings on the system body or the retrofit device. Locking slide on a retrofit device and

System body or receiving openings on the other of

Retrofit device and system body can thus allow that in the vertically independent state of the body they can be secured against displacement. While the coupling structures for enabling the staple and the coupling structures for enabling the vertically unavoidable displacement in the horizontal plane (especially exclusively) on a common lateral side surface (or on two opposite side surfaces) may be attached, receiving openings and locking slide on another, in particular front Side surface be appropriate. The spatial separation of these

Coupling structures intuitively shows a user the functional separation of the function achievable with the respective coupling structures. When a locking slide of retrofit device or system body is retracted or inserted into an associated receiving opening of the / of the other retrofitting device and system body, in the vertical direction, thereby a Formschiuss be formed, which prevents displacement along the guide rails. As a result, a decrease by moving in the horizontal direction is temporarily impossible.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the

Retrofit device having at least one rolling device for rolling movement of the non-system body attached to the retrofit device. In this way, the additional provision of a rolling transport can be made possible with the retrofitting.

In the following, exemplary embodiments of the

Present invention described in detail with reference to the following figures.

Figure 1 shows a case as a system body of an arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention in an open state.

Figure 2 and Figure 3 show the case of Figure 1 in one

closed state.

Figure 4 shows a case, as shown in Figure 1 to Figure 3, coupled in a coupled with another similar case the same state.

FIG. 5 shows a plan view of a top side component of FIG

Retrofit device for retrofitting a non-system body to

common use with a system body in the form of a suitcase according to Figure 1 to Figure 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 shows a bottom view of the top side component according to FIG. 5. FIG. 7 shows a non-system body with attached underside components of a retrofit device in accordance with FIG

Embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 shows a first view of the underside components according to FIG. 7 without non-system bodies.

FIG. 9 shows a second view of the underside components according to FIG. 7 without non-system bodies.

FIG. 10 shows a third view of the underside components according to FIG. 7 without non-system bodies.

FIG. 11 shows an arrangement of a system body, a

Non-system body and a retrofit device for retrofitting the

Non-system body for common use with the system body according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The same or similar components in different figures are provided with the same reference numerals.

Before describing exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the figures, some general aspects of the invention will be explained.

Illustratively, according to exemplary embodiments of the

Invention System Connections of Systemic Coupling Structures

comprising system cases (or more generally system bodies) with other suitcases or even other objects (also referred to as non-system bodies) that do not or not as fully exhibit such systemic coupling structures as a system body. Thus, it may in particular be possible to couple a system case with a non-system case as if it were a system case. Furthermore, it may also be possible to systematically couple a system case with other items, such as a workbench or a shelf. Even for a flat bottom of a (especially large) case, a system connection be made possible by the flat bottom of such a non-system body is equipped with a retrofit device. A retrofit device according to an exemplary embodiment may contribute missing coupling structures that are lacking to qualify a non-system body as the system body alone for this non-system body. This can be clearly illustrated, for example, by providing a bottom of the non-system body on opposite side walls with coupling bars or the like

equipped, which simulate, emulate, emulate or replace the coupling elements of a system body, for example, noses and / or locking means.

The retrofit device can be completely different

Embodiments are provided. Coupling strips or rails of a retrofit device may comprise or consist of plastic, in particular be produced by injection molding. Locking slide at the front end of a coupling strip can be used later. For example, an interior and / or an exterior of a body of the retrofit device or a non-system body may receive reinforcing elements on the bottom side. Coupling bars or rails can not only be attached to the floor or sidewalls but, for example, can also engage in these reinforcing elements (for example, screws can pass through them)

Coupling rails are set). It is possible to insert screws through the bottom of the case into the reinforcing elements. A bottom side without

Coupling structures made suitcase can also be retrofitted with

Coupling structures are provided. For example, wheels could also be attached to the coupling structures in order to form a system-compatible trolley.

FIG. 1 shows a system body 10 embodied as a suitcase for an arrangement 110 (for example together with a non-system body 102 according to FIG. 7 or according to FIG. 11 and a retrofit device according to FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 and / or according to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 and / or according to FIG FIG. 11) according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention in one Opening state. FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 show the system body 10 according to FIG. 1 in a closed state or closed state. Figure 4 shows a system body 10, as shown in Figure 1 to Figure 3, in one with another similar, designed as a suitcase body system coupled state 10 ^λ. Figure 4 thus shows an assembly 99 which shows the system body 10 and the additional similar system body 10 ^λ in a connected state. The formed in the illustrated embodiment as a suitcase system body 10 may alternatively also another receiving body for

Receiving stored goods.

The system body 10 serves to transport goods to be transported. Such

Transport goods can be loose or fastened or secured inside the

System body 10 may be included and may in particular

Receiving containers (not shown) to be added, which in turn are securely housed in the interior of the system body 10 in the closed state. Examples of such cargo are

Consumables (such as screws, nails, dowels, bulk or

Liquids) or tools (such as screwdrivers or bits), etc.

The system body 10 has a body 12 and a lid 14 connected or connectable to the body 12. On the inner sides of the body 12 are reinforcing ribs 28 for mechanically reinforcing the

System body 10 is formed. Diverse coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 are attached according to the embodiment shown exclusively on the body 12, but not on the lid 14. In the closed state between the body 12 and the lid 14 is a receiving space for

Receiving cargo from the outside inaccessible between the body 12 and the cover 14 enclosed. In the open state is the

Receiving space accessible from the outside, for example, to remove cargo from the system body 10 or introduce into the system body 10. The coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 are designed in such a way that the system body 10 and the identical other system body 10 ^{λ are connected} by means of the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 (which are thus described in US Pat identical manner are also provided on the other system body 10 ^λ ) optionally one above the other vertically removable and horizontally verschiebegesichert stackable (state I), or vertically undetachable and horizontal

slidably coupled with each other (state II). Furthermore, the

System body 10, 10 ^λ vertically undetachable and horizontally immovably coupled to each other (state III). The coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44, which perform both stacking (state I) and coupling

(State II, state III) of the several system bodies 10, 10 accomplish ^λ are exclusively by means of precautions to the respective body 12 (see locking cam 30 and receiving openings 36 of locking feet 34, coupling lugs 38 on the locking feet 34, a guide rail 30, 32 between the Locking cam 30 and steps 32 and cooperating locking slide 40 and

Receiving openings 44) realized, but without precautions are taken on the lid 14.

To activate the condition I, of the other system body 10 is disposed ^λ vertically above the system body 10 and then subsequently lowered to the system body 10, that the receiving openings 36 of the locking feet 34 of the other system body 10 ^λ in engagement with the locking cam 30 of the

System body 10 advised. The receiving openings 36 on the locking feet 34 of the other system body 10 ^λ and the locking cams 30 of the system body 10 then ensure that the other system body 10 ^λ can be lifted vertically from the system body 10 again at any time (that is, by an inverse movement for stacking movement), but is protected by the positive connection between the receiving openings 36 at the locking feet 34 of the other system body 10 ^λ and the locking cams 30 of the system body 10 from a displacement in a horizontal plane. In order to activate the state II, the other system body 10 ^{λ is arranged} in the horizontal plane in front of the system body 10 and vertically slightly raised relative to the system body 10, so that the coupling lugs 38 of the other system body 10 ^λ at the level between the locking cam 30 and the stages 32nd , are thus arranged at the height of the guide rails 30, 32 of the system body 10. Then the activation of the state II is completed by the other system body 10 ^λ is pushed over the system body 10 that the coupling lugs 38 of the other system body 10 ^λ between the locking cam 30 and the steps 32, and thus into the guide rails 30, 32 of the system body 10 retract. In the state II, a lifting of the other system body 10 ^λ of the system body 10 due to the positive connection between the coupling lugs 38 on the one hand and the locking cam 30 and the steps 32, therefore, with the guide rails 30, 32 on the other hand, impossible.

At the same time, the system body 10 is separated from the other one

System body 10 ^λ by a horizontal pushing off of the other system body 10 ^λ of the system body 10 is possible, namely with an inverse

Displacement movement compared to that with which the state II

was completed.

In order to activate the state III starting from the state II, the locking elements 40 of the other system body 10 ^{λ are} inserted into the receiving openings 44 of the system body 10 ^λ in a mutually pushed state of the system body 10, 10 ^λ by a vertical displacement movement. In the thus completed state III is now a displacement protection between the system bodies 10, 10 formed ^λ , so now neither a vertical lifting nor a horizontal pushing off of the system body 10, 10 ^λ from each other is possible.

A portion of the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 (namely the coupling structures with the reference numerals 30, 34 with 38) contribute both to the vertically removable shift secured stacking and to the vertically undetachably coupling together. As already described, the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 are formed such that the system body 10 and the other system body 10 ^λ means of the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 in the over one another vertically undetachably coupled state selectively against each other (state II in which coupling structures 40, 44 are not engaged with each other) or by pressing the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 against each other verschiebesicherbar are (state III, in which additional coupling structures 40, 44 are engaged with each other). A part of the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 (namely the

Coupling structures with the reference numerals 40 and 44), which in the

vertically insensitive to each other

Coupled state III contributes to the displacement-locking, is independent of another part (namely, the coupling structures with the reference numerals 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) of the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44th

formed and operable, which contributes to the vertically removable shift secured stacking or vertically undetachably coupling with each other (state I or state II).

The part of the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44, with which the system body 10 and the other system body 10 ^λ stacked vertically over one another are vertically displaceable stackable, is in the form of locking cams 30 at outer top edge portions of the body 12 as well formed in the form of the locking feet 34 with the locking cams 30 in the stacked state cooperating lower side receiving openings 36 at outer lower edge regions of the body 12.

The part of the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44, with which the

System body 10 and the other system body 10 ^λ vertically superimposed on each other are vertically coupled to each other in the form of guide rails 30, 32 on outer top edge portions of the body 12 and in the form of cooperating with the guide rails 30, 32 in the coupled state lower side coupling lugs 38 on the outer lower side Edge areas of the Body 12 formed. The locking cams 30 form part of the guide rails 30, 32 and form the coupling lugs 38 part of the locking feet 34. The locking feet 34 extend vertically beyond a bottom surface of the body 12 also down (see Figure 2), so that the system body 10 with the

Resting feet 34 is deposited on a substrate.

The part of the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44, with which the system body 10 and the other system body 10 ^λ in the superposed vertically undetachably coupled together state against each other

verschiebesicherbar are (state III), is in the form of the receiving openings 44 and the cooperating locking slide 40 is formed. As indicated by an arrow 42 in Figure 1, the locking slides 40 on the body 12 of the other system body 10 ^λ in the receiving openings 44 on the body 12 of the system body 10 can be inserted (when the other system body 10 ^{λ is arranged} above the system body 10, such as in Figure 4), or pushed out in reverse (when the system body 10 above the other

System body 10 ^{λ is} arranged).

All coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44 are provided on side surfaces of the body 12 (see, for example, FIG. 1). In contrast, the lid 14 is free from the coupling structures 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44.

The system body 10 also has recessed grips 26 in the form of

Recesses on opposite side surfaces of the body 12.

In addition, an optional locking device 46, 48, 50, 52 may be provided for closing the lid 14 to the body 12 in the closed state. In the closed state of the system body 10, by means of a key 50 in a rotary lock 52 in a receiving element 46 of the body 12 a locking with a counterpart 48 of the lid 14th

be accomplished. When the lid 14 by means of a hinge 16

is pivoted to close the interior of the body 12, lock locking elements of the rotary lock 52 on the body 12 with the

Counterpart 48 on the lid 14. The means of the removable key 50th actuatable rotary lock 52 on the body 12 includes a pivoting bracket that retracts into the counterpart 48 on the lid 14.

A handle 54 is in a trough at a wear state upper

Side surface of the body 12 mounted and between a folded on the side surface of the body 12 state (see Figure 1) and one of the

Side surface folded down state tiltable. A transition between these two states, the user by handling the handle 54

cause. The handle 54 is made of a hard component 56 for stabilizing and supporting the handle 54 and a soft component 58 for comfort

Touching the system body 10 by a user while wearing the

System body 10 is formed. The handle 54 on the body 12 can be applied to the latter and remains there in a compact position by the action of a locking cam latching the handle 54 in the retracted state. In the region of the handle 54, a label field 75 is provided, into which, for example, an indicia marking carrier indicative of the content of the system body 10 can be inserted.

The system body 10 further includes the hinge 16 which hingedly connects the body 12 and the lid 14 to each other and is configured to sandwich the system body 10 between the closed state and the closed state

To be able to fold open state. The locking feet 34 and the hinge 16 are structurally adapted to each other and positioned so that the hinge 16 remains contact-free with respect to the ground when the system body 10 rests by means of the locking feet 34 on the ground.

As can be seen in Figure 1, a document holder 68 is mounted on an inner side of the lid 14, with the document not shown in Figure 1 can be temporarily clamped and thus secured during transport.

Both the body 12 and the lid 14 are respectively

Manufacturing technology simply designed as an injection molded part. To the respective injection molded part further components are attached below (for example the locking slide 40 on the body 12 or the document holder 68 on the lid 14).

The system body 10, 10 ^λ are also for receiving selection boxes (not shown), in which, for example tool materials, such as screws, dowels or other can be accommodated. in the

Closed state of the respective system body 10, 10 ^λ , the assortment boxes are inaccessible to a user in the interior of the respective system body 10, 10 ^λ secured, whereas a user in the open state of the respective

System body 10, 10 can access the assortment boxes.

As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, are on an inner side of the body

12 cross-cutting longitudinal struts 18 and cross struts 20 raised above a flat surface. In sectional areas of the longitudinal struts 18 and the cross braces 20 additionally raised projecting frame 22 are formed in each cutting area together with longitudinal struts 18 and cross struts 20 four receiving recesses 24 for receiving in the

Substantially inverse to the receiving recesses 24 form molded feet of assortment boxes.

An annular recess on an inner side of the lid 14 is covered with an annular mat 64 which is circumferentially ultrasonically welded to the lid 14. On the Passepartout 64 of the plastic document holder 68 is mounted by means of plastic clips 66 for clamping of documents not shown.

Figure 1 to Figure 4 is thus to be seen that the system body in efficient manner ^λ can be connected to other system bodies 10 10th In the following, with reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 10, it will be described how such a system body 10 also has one shown in FIG

Non-system body 102 or other non-system body without any coupling structures, i. without those for building system capability

required coupling structures (see in particular reference numerals 30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the system body 10 according to an exemplary Embodiment of the invention can be made compatible with the system bodies 10, 10 ^λ .

Briefly, there is a relevant measure of an embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 1 and as small as possible virtual sections 206 to identify 208 the system body 10, showing the (for the preparation of compatibility with a system body 10, 10 ^λ required coupling structures, see particularly reference numerals 30 , 44 in section 206 and reference numerals 34, 40 in section 208). The thus identified, as small as possible and possibly contiguous sections 206 and 208 can then be simulated to be used as components 106

(See Figure 5 and Figure 6) and 108 (see Figure 7 to Figure 10) of a retrofitting device 100 to be physically manufactured. One or more of the manufactured physical components 106, 108 may then be attached to the non-system body 102 for compatibility with the non-system body

System bodies 10, 10 ^λ (in particular removable) are attached.

In particular, a non-system body 102 retrofitted with the retrofit device 100 designed in this way can be stacked with a system body 10, 10 ^λ as well as vertically displaceable over one another vertically or (optionally with or without displacement safeguard) vertically undetachable

coupled together like two system body 10, 10 ^λ with each other.

Figure 5 shows a plan view of a topside component 106 of a retrofit device 100 for retrofitting a non-system body for common use with a system body 10 (in the form of a suitcase according to Figures 1 to 4) according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 shows a bottom-side view of the top side component 106 according to FIG. 5.

The physical upper side component 106 shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 is modeled on the virtual section 206 shown in FIG. A not shown in the figures non-system body, in contrast to the

System body 10 according to Figure 1, the coupling structures 30, 44 is missing, can an upper right-hand side according to the illustration according to FIG. 1 is provided with the upper-side component 106 formed as an L-shaped bar in order to provide the functionality of the coupling structures 30, 44 there.

Although not shown in the figure, in an upper left-hand area of a non-system body according to FIG. 1 where the coupling structures 30, 44 are also absent, a further L-shaped bar may be additional

Top component are arranged to replicate the functionality of the coupling structures 30, 44 there as well. This additional

Upper side component can be illustratively formed in mirror image to the upper side component 106 shown in FIG. 5 and FIG.

The retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 therefore serves for retrofitting a non-system body which as such does not serve with the

System body 10 can be coupled, as it has coupling structures 30, 44 of the

System body 10 is missing.

The retrofitting device 100 for top-side retrofitting of

Non-system body thus has the strip-shaped retrofit body 112 according to Figure 5 and Figure 6 and another, not shown in the figure

Retrofit, which is formed in mirror image to Figure 5 and Figure 6. As best seen in Figure 6, the retrofit body 112 shown there has a connection structure 114 on its underside for mechanical connection to the non-system body. The connection is made in the illustrated

Exemplary embodiment such that a cavity of the retrofit body 112 delimited by circumferential sidewalls can be placed on the non-system body or attached.

Further, coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^{λ are provided} on the retrofit body 112, which are adapted to be coupled to coupling structures 34, 38, 40 of the system body 10 such that the retrofit device 100 (after placement on the non-system body) and the system body 10 are selectively vertically one above the other they can be stacked in a removable way, or they can be coupled with each other in a vertically undetachable way (optionally with or without Displacement protection) are - in a corresponding manner, as described for the system body 10, 10 ^λ reference to Figure 1 to Figure 4. Illustratively, the coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^λ on the retrofit body 112 replace those missing on the non-system body

Coupling structures 30, 44. The illustrated in Figure 5 and Figure 6

Retrofit device 100 is thus designed to retrofit the non-system body to establish compatibility with the set of system bodies 10, 10 ^λ . For the design of the retrofitting device 100 are first

Coupling structures 30, 44 of the system body 10 identified to the

Making compatibility at the top of the non-system body

required are . For this purpose, see section 206 in Figure 1, as compact a contiguous area in the form of an here L-shaped bar are determined, which has the relevant coupling structures 30, 44 and carries. On the basis of these preliminary considerations, the retrofitting device 100 can then be produced as an L-shaped body with the identified coupling structures ^30/44 (for example made of plastic, in particular by means of injection molding). In the same way, then the second L-shaped retrofit body 112 can be made with mirror-image shape to Figure 5 and Figure 6 to the

mimic coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^λ on the left side of the system body. Thereafter, the non-system body with the so-manufactured

Retrofit device 100 are connected by placing the strips such that the connected to the retrofitting device 100

Non-system body by means of the coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^λ the

Retrofit device 100 and by means of the coupling structures 34, 38, 40 of the system body 10 with the system body 10 in the manner described above is systematically coupled.

As already described, in the embodiment described with reference to Figure 5 and Figure 6, the retrofitting device 100 may be formed as two L-shaped strip profiles 104 to a particular

Material-saving and lightweight version of retrofitting device 100 to reach. Alternatively, the strip profile 104 can also be configured as a U-profile, the vividly connects the two L-shaped strip profiles 104 together and thus a particularly user-friendly handling of

Retrofit device 100 in the form of then only one component allows.

Because the non-system body taken alone is complicated

Coupling structures (may have the undercuts) may be free, it can be injected in one piece with a simple injection molding tool. This significantly simplifies the manufacturing process of the non-system body.

As already mentioned, the coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^{λ of} the retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are designed such that a system body 10 according to FIG. 1 attached to an upper side of the non-system body retrofitted with the retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 5 and FIG Coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^{λ of} the non-system body and by means of the coupling structures 34, 38, 40 of the system body 10 over each other selectively vertically removable verschiebegesichert stackable (see coupling structures 30 \ 34), or vertically undetachable

can be coupled to each other (see coupling structures 30 \ 34, 38) - the latter optionally with or without displacement protection (see

Coupling structures 44 \ 40). For this purpose, the coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^{λ of} the retrofitting device 100 laterally on the strip body 112 integrally formed locking cams 30 ^λ on the (to be mounted on an upper side of the non-system body) upper side component 106 of the retrofitting device 100. The locking cams 30 ^{λ of} the retrofitting device 100 may further form a part of guide rails for forming a vertically undetachably displaceable configuration, wherein these guide rails, for example, between the locking cams 30 ^{λ of} the retrofitting device 100 and stages (see

Reference numeral 32 in Figure 1) of the non-system body may be formed. A part of the coupling structures 30 \ 44 \ with which the retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 and the system body 10 can be coupled to each other vertically undetachably can thus be in the form of Guide rails can be realized, which is partially attached to the attached to an upper side of the non-system body upper side component 106 of

Retrofit device 100 are formed.

A part of the coupling structures 30 \ 44 \ with the add-on device 100 in the above one another vertically undetachably coupled to each state are compared to each other verschiebesicherbar according to Figure 5 and Figure 6, together with non-system body on the one hand and the system body 10 on the other hand, 44 may ^λ in the form of a through hole as respective receiving opening the

Short side of the L-shaped profile part or retrofit body 112 according to Figure 5 and Figure 6 and as a respective cooperating locking slide 40 of the

System body 10 may be formed according to Figure 1. To realize the

Displacement protection can thus locking slide 40 of the system body 10 are inserted into corresponding receiving openings 44 ^{λ of} the retrofitting device 100 (displacement protection activated) or pushed out (anti-displacement disabled).

By means of the add-on device 100 according to Figure 5 and Figure 6 can thus a normal subject (for example, a case), ie, a non body system, with a system of coupling elements in the form of the coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^λ

be equipped or retrofitted. The L-shaped rail used for this purpose as the upper side component 106 according to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 thereby obtains the structures required for system coupling with the system body 10 according to FIGS. 1 to 4 (see latching cams 30 ^λ ) for the latching feet 34 of the engaging system body 10 as well as FIGS Recess (see receiving opening 44 ^λ ) for insertion of the locking element (see locking slide 40).

Are two mirror-symmetrical L-shaped rails, one of which is in

Figure 5 and Figure 6 is shown as a retrofit body 112, mounted at a suitable distance relative to each other, the coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^{λ are} simulated at the cover-side end of a trained as a system case system body 10 by the resulting arrangement. A system body 10 can be placed on the rails according to Figure 5 and Figure 6 such that the locking feet 34th of the system body 10 with the locking cams 30 ^{λ of} the rails engage, so that the system body 10 is held. The locking slides or locking slides 40 on the handle side of the system body 10 can be pushed into the associated recess or receiving opening 44 ^{λ of} the respective L-shaped rail to lock the system body 10 with the retrofitting device 100 from the two L-shaped profiles. The system body 10 is thereby latched to the L-shaped profiles and secured thereto.

The L-shaped rails according to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 can be fastened on almost any objects as non-system bodies, whereby the system bodies 10 can be fastened to them via the system connection according to FIGS. 1 to 4. As articles or non-system body, on which the retrofitting device 100 is particularly preferably formed from the two L-shaped rails according to Figure 5 and Figure 6, cases that are not system cases, shelves, tool banks, workshop cars, etc. possible.

Figure 7 shows a non-system body 102 attached thereto

Sub-components 108 of a retrofit device 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 8 shows a first view of FIG

Substrate components 108 according to FIG. 7 without non-system body 102. FIG. 9 shows a second view of the underside components 108 according to FIG. 7 without non-system body 102. FIG. 10 shows a third view of FIG

Substrate components 108 according to Figure 7 without non-system body 102. The retrofitting device 100 according to Figure 7 to Figure 10 is used to retrofit the non-system body 102, which as such not completely (namely not on its bottom side) with system bodies 10, 10 ^λ can be coupled.

It should be noted that the underside components 108 according to FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 can be used as an alternative or in addition to the upper side components 106 according to FIG. 5 and FIG

Retrofit device 100 for retrofitting a non-system body 102 to form. In other words, a non-system body 102 may be either only at its top or only at its bottom (as in FIG. 7) or both be retrofitted on its upper side and on its underside, to attach there to the system body 10 replicated coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^λ or 34 \ 38 \ 40 ^λ to install.

The right of the two shown in Figure 7 to Figure 10 physical

Sub-component 106 is modeled on the virtual portion 208 shown in FIG. The non-system body 102 shown in FIG. 7, which in contrast to the system body 10 according to FIG. 1 lacks the coupling structures 34, 40 on its underside, can be shown at the lower right side according to FIG. 7 with the one shown at the right in FIG. 7 to FIG -shaped strip formed sub-component 108 are provided to there the

To mimic functionality of the coupling structures 34, 40. Furthermore, in a lower left region of the non-system body 102, according to FIG. 7, where the coupling structures 34, 40 are also absent, a further L-shaped strip can be arranged as an additional underside component 108 in order to reproduce the functionality of the coupling structures 34, 40 there as well. This additional underside component 108 is shown in FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 on the left-hand side in each case and can be embodied in a clearly mirror-inverted manner to the underside component 108 shown on the right-hand side in FIG. 7 to FIG. According to FIG. 7 to FIG. 10, in turn, two L-shaped strip profiles 104 are substantially mirror-symmetrical to each other

Substrate components 108 provided. These can be connected to each other as an alternative to a single, particularly easy to handle profile.

The upper side components 106 according to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 and the lower side components 108 according to FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 are with

different coupling structures 30 \ 44 ^λ or 34 ^λ , 38 ', 40 ^λ provided to the correspondingly different coupling structures 30, 44 and 34, 38, 40 at an upper side or at an underside of the system body 10 ^λ

imitate.

The L-shaped strips of the retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 are each provided on their upper side with a connecting structure 114 to the Connection provided with an inversely shaped bottom of the non-system body 102. The connecting structures 114 are each formed as a pair of along a long side of the respective strip profile 104 spaced apart receiving grooves. On a lower surface of the long sides latching feet 34 ^{λ are} formed. These are, as can be seen in Figure 9 and Figure 10, bottom side provided with coupling lugs 38 ^λ , in which locking cam 30 of a

System body 10 can be introduced. Moreover, in a lower region of a respective short side of the respective strip profile 104 according to FIGS. 7 to 10, a vertically displaceable locking slide 40 ' ^is mounted, which can be displaced in a direction indicated by a respective double arrow in FIG. 7, in a corresponding receiving opening 44 a system body 10 to be taken or from this

to be driven out.

Since the non-system body 102 by connecting to the

Retrofit device 100 can be retrofitted compatible with the system body 10, it can - taken alone - be designed free of resting feet and rest flat on a flat surface. This allows the non-system body 102 to also accommodate heavy loads (for example, configured as a storage bin, garbage bin, or the like) that could result in breakaway of resting feet during continuous operation. Are latching feet 34 ^λ as coupling structures needed to connect the non-system body 102 with a system body 10, the bottom of the

Non-system body 102 may be equipped with the retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 7 to FIG.

The coupling structures 34 ^λ , 38 \ 40 ^{λ of} the retrofitting device 100 according to

Figure 7 to Figure 10 are thus so formed that a bottom of the under side with the add-on device 100 retrofitted according to FIG 7 to FIG 10 Not system body 102 patch system body 10 according to Figure 1 by means of the coupling structures 34 ^λ, 38 \ 40 ^λ of the non-system body 102 and by means of the coupling structures 30, 44 of the system body 10 one above the other are selectively vertically removable verschiebegesichert stackable (see coupling structures 30, 34 ^λ ), or vertically unabnehmbar coupled to each other (see coupling structures 30, 34 ^λ , 38 ^λ ) - the latter optionally with or without displacement protection (see coupling structures 44, 40 ^λ ). For this purpose, the coupling structures 34 ^λ , 38 \ 40 ^{λ of} the retrofitting device 100 on the underside of the strip body 112 integrally formed locking feet 34 ^λ on the (to be mounted on a bottom of the non-system body 102) lower side component 108 of the retrofitting device 100. These act in the stacked state with locking cams 30 of the system body 10 together. Furthermore, coupling lugs 38 ^{λ can form} a part of the locking feet 34 ^λ . A part of the coupling structures 34 with which the retrofitting device 100 according to FIGS. 7 to 10 and the system body 10 can be coupled to one another vertically can be used in the form of the coupling lugs 38 ^λ interacting with guide rails in the coupled state the (to be attached to an underside of the non-system body 102)

Sub-components 108 of the retrofitting device 100 may be formed.

By means of the retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 7 to FIG. 10, a normal object (for example a suitcase), that is to say a suitcase, can therefore be used. H . a non-system body, equipped with system coupling elements in the form of coupling structures 34 ^λ , 38 \ 40 ^λ or retrofitted.

The non-system body 102 is designed in the form of a case according to FIG. 7 and can be replaced by the retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 with the system body 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4

systemically coupled. The non-system body 102 includes a body 130 having four sidewalls 132, 134, 136, 138 and a bottom 140 and a lid 142. The upper, lid-side end of the non-system body 102 has coupling elements or coupling structures 144 corresponding to FIGS. 1 to 4 in order to arrange a further system body 10 thereon and to connect the two cases to one another. The opposite bottom end (not shown) of the non-system body 102, however - contrary to Figure 1 to Figure 4 - no coupling structures, ie in particular no locking feet 34 and no locking slide 40. The bottom of the trained as a suitcase

Non-system body 102 may thus be flat on a floor of a hall

to be ordered. This is advantageous in itself, since this ensures that even with a heavy loading of the non-system body 102 fault-robust can not break off feet and the bottom of the non-system body 102 does not bend. Advantageously, for the production of the body 130 a (in particular simply designed) injection molding tool used and the body 130 are molded in one piece.

In order to ensure the described fault-robust operation of the non-system body 102 even at high load and additional effort for another injection molding tool for forming underside

Coupling structures 34, 38, 40 according to Figure 1 to Figure 4 directly on the

To avoid non-system body 102 and still allow a system connection of the case, proceed as follows: On the opposite side walls of the non-system body 102 coupling rails can be arranged and fixed in the form of the strip profiles 104 of Figure 7 to Figure 10, which the lower-side coupling structures 34, 38th , 40 simulate according to Figure 1 to Figure 4, namely the feet (see locking feet 34 ^λ with coupling lugs 38 ^λ ) and the locking elements (see detent slide 40 ^λ ). With the help of this

Coupling rails, the smooth and produced without coupling elements bottom of the non-system body 102 to a bottom with the coupling structures 34 \ 38 \ 40 \ the functionally Figure 1 to Figure 4 are modeled.

The coupling rails of the retrofitting device 100 according to FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 can be connected, for example with the aid of screws or rivets or clips, to the body 130 or can simply be attached thereto (see connection structure 114).

If the coupling rails or strip profiles 104 are fastened to the body 130, the non-system body 102 can be placed on a system body 10 be and coupled or connected with this, as described in Figure 1 to Figure 4.

Although no receiving openings on the locking feet 34 are shown in Figure 7 to Figure 10 on the lower side components 108 ^λ, can

Lower side components 108 at the locking feet 34 ^λ and such

Receiving openings (corresponding to reference numeral 36, as in Figure 3 for

System body 10 shown).

Figure 11 shows schematically an arrangement 110 of a system body 10, a non-system body 102 and a retrofitting device 100 for

Upgrading the non-system body 102 for use with the system body 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention

Invention. The retrofitting device 100 is used to retrofit the

Non-system body 102, which as such is not coupled (namely, neither at its bottom side nor at its top) to the system body 10.

The system body 10 has coupling structures 30, 34 and may be coupled by means of the coupling structures 30, 34 to coupling structures 30, 34 of another system body (not shown). The

Non-system body 102, on the other hand, is as such lacking its own

Coupling structures with the coupling structures 30, 34 of the system body 10 can not be coupled. The retrofitting device 100, however, points

Coupling structures 30 \ 34 ^λ at which the coupling structures 30, 34 of the system body 10 are functionally reproduced and for producing coupling compatibility with the system body 10 also at the

Non-system body 102 would be required. The non-system body 102 and the retrofit device 100 are shaped and dimensioned to be interconnected (see arrow 150), that in the connected state by means of the coupling structures 30 \ 34 ^{λ of} the retrofit device 100 and by means of the coupling structures 30, 34 of the system body 10 with the

Retrofit device 100 connected non-system body 102 with the

System body 10 can be coupled. In the illustrated embodiment, the retrofit device 100 has a receiving space 152 that is shaped and dimensioned to receive the non-system body 103 (see arrow 150).

A connection structure 114 for firmly connecting the

Non-system body 102 with the retrofitting device 100 is shown purely as an example as vertically displaceable bolt according to FIG. 11.

Furthermore, according to FIG. 11, the retrofitting device 100 has a

Rolling device 116 for rolling moving the non-system body 102 attached to the retrofitting device 100, which can then be used as a system-capable trolley.

The schematic representation according to FIG. 11 shows that the

basic concept of embodiments of the invention with completely different non-system bodies 102 can be realized. On

Non-system body may, for example, be any receiving body (for example a suitcase), a shelf, a tool bench, a tool trolley, etc.

In addition, it should be noted that "having" does not exclude other elements or steps and "a" or "an" does not exclude a multitude. "It should also be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments also can be used in combination with other features or steps of other embodiments described above, and reference signs in the claims are not intended to be limiting.

Claims

Patent claims

A method of designing a retrofit device (100) to retrofit a non-system body (102) for compatibility with a system body (10), which system body (10) by means of coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) with another system body (10 ^λ ), the method comprising:

Identifying coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the

System body (10) required for compatibility;

Producing the retrofit device (100) with the coupling structures

(30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) which are modeled on the identified coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44);

Connecting the non-system body (102) to the retrofit device (100) such that it is connected to the retrofit device (100)

Non-system body (102) by means of the coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) of the retrofit device (100) and by means of the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the system body (10) with the system body (10 ) can be coupled.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the retrofit device (100) as at least one strip profile (104), in particular as two or four L-profiles or one or two U-profiles, is configured.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one

Top component (106) of the retrofit device (100) is attached to a top of the non-system body (102) and / or at least one

Sub-component (108) of the retrofit device (100) is attached to a lower side of the non-system body (102).

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the at least one

Upper side component (106) and the at least one lower side component (108) are formed differently, in particular with different coupling structures (30 \ 44 ^λ ; 34 \ 38 ', 40 ^λ ) are formed.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the connection is carried out by means of a screw connection, a rivet connection and / or a particular releasable connector.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the retrofit device (100) is produced by injection molding.

7. Arrangement (110), comprising:

a system body (10) having coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) and by means of the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) with

Coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of another system body (10 ^λ ) is coupled;

a non-system body (102) as such having the

Coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the system body (10) is not or not completely coupled;

a retrofit device (100) having coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ), the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the

System body (10) are required, which are required for establishing compatibility with the system body (10);

wherein the non-system body (102) and the retrofit device (100) are configured and connectable or connected to each other in the connected state by means of the coupling structures (30 \ 34 ^λ , 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) of the retrofit device (100) and by means of Coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the system body (10) of the non-system body (102) connected to the retrofit device (100) can be coupled to the system body (10).

The assembly (110) of claim 7, wherein the system body (10) is a case for transporting cargo.

The assembly (110) of claim 8, wherein the case comprises:

a body (12);

a cover (14) connected or connectable to the body (12); the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) on the body (12) and / or on the lid (14);

wherein in a closed state between the body (12) and the lid (14) has a receiving space for receiving transported goods from the outside

is formed inaccessible;

wherein in an open state, the receiving space is accessible from the outside.

10. Arrangement (110) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the suitcase are formed, that the suitcase and another coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) having Suitcase as another system body (10 ^λ ) by means of the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) one above the other selective:

vertically removable sliding secured stackable; or vertically undetachably coupled to each other.

11. Arrangement (110) according to claim 10, wherein the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the suitcase are formed such that the suitcase and the other suitcase are connected by means of the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44). in the vertically undetectably coupled together state selectively

are mutually displaceable; or

by actuating the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44)

against each other are verschiebesicherbar.

12. Arrangement (110) according to one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the non-system body (102) is selected from a group consisting of a receiving body, in particular a suitcase, a shelf, a

Tool bench and a workshop trolley.

13. Arrangement (110) according to one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the

Non-system body (102) of locking feet (34, 34 ^λ ) is free, in particular has a smooth or flat bottom.

14. Arrangement (110) according to one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the

Non-system body (102) is injected integrally.

15. Retrofitting device (100) for retrofitting a non-system body (102), which is as such not or not completely coupled to a system body (10), wherein coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the

System body (10) are formed so that the system body (10) and another coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) having system body (10 ^λ ) by means of the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) on each other selectively vertically removable non-slip stackable or vertical

are irreversibly coupled to each other, wherein the retrofitting device (100) comprises:

at least one retrofit body (112) having a connection structure (114) for connection to the non-system body (102);

Coupling structures (30 \ 34 ^λ , 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) to the at least one retrofit body (112), which are formed with the coupling structures (30, 34, 38, 40, 44) of the system body (10) so coupled in that the non-system body (102) connected to the retrofit device (100) and the system body (10) are selectively stacked over one another:

16. Retrofitting device (100) according to claim 15, wherein the

Retrofit device (100) at least one strip profile (104), in particular two or four L-profiles or one or two U-profiles having.

17. Retrofitting device (100) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the

Retrofit device (100) at least one upper side component (106) for attachment to a top of the non-system body (102) and / or

at least one underside component (108) for attachment to a

Underside of the non-system body (102).

18. retrofit device (100) according to claim 17, wherein the at least one upper side component (106) and the at least one lower side component (108) are formed differently, in particular different

Have coupling structures (30 \ 44 ^λ ; 34 \ 38 \ 40 ^λ ).

19. A retrofit device (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein a part of the coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) of the retrofit device (100) for both vertically removable shift secured stacking as well as vertically undependable coupling with each other contribute.

20. Retrofitting device (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) of the retrofitting device (100) are formed, that with the retrofit device (100) connected

Non-system body (102) and the system body (10) by means of

Coupling structures (30 \ 34 ^λ , 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) in the superimposed vertically undeniably coupled together state selectively

are mutually displaceable; or

by pressing the coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) against each other are verschiebesicherbar.

21. retrofit device (100) according to claim 20, wherein a part of

Coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) of the retrofit device (100), which contribute to the shift securing in the state vertically undependably coupled together, independently of another part of the coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) of the retrofitting device (100) are formed and actuated, the vertically removable

shift-assured stacking as well as vertically undoubtedly coupling with each other.

22. A retrofit device (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein a part of the coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) of the retrofitting device (100), with which associated with the retrofit device (100)

Non-system body (102) and the system body (10) are vertically stackable over one another vertically displaceable stackable, in the form of locking cams (30 ^λ ) to be attached to a top of the non-system body (102)

Upper side component (106) of the retrofitting device (100) and / or in the form of locking feet (34 ^λ ) on a lower side of the non-system body (102) to be attached lower side component (108) of the retrofitting device (100) are formed.

23. A retrofit device (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 22, wherein a part of the coupling structures (30 \ 34 ^λ , 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ), with which associated with the retrofit device (100) non-system body (102) and the System body (10) one above the other vertically unabnehmbar coupled to each other, in the form of guide rails at least partially to be attached to an upper side of the non-system body (102) upper side component (106) of the retrofitting device (100) and / or in the form of

Guide rails in the coupled state cooperating coupling lugs (38 ^λ ) are formed on a bottom side of the non-system body (102) to be attached lower side component (108) of the retrofit device (100).

24. Retrofitting device (100) according to claims 22 and 23, wherein the

Locking cam (30 ^λ ) form part of the guide rails.

25. Retrofitting device (100) according to claims 22 and 23, wherein the

Coupling lugs (38 ^λ ) form part of the locking feet (34 ^λ ).

A retrofit device (100) according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein a portion of the coupling structures (30 \ 34 \ 38 ', 40 \ 44 ^λ ) to which the non-system body (102) connected to the retrofit device (100) and the system body (10) are mutually verschiebesicherbar in the superimposed vertically undetachably coupled together, in the form of receiving openings (44 ^λ ) and / or latching slides (40 ^λ ) are formed, wherein at least one locking slide (40 ^λ ) of the retrofitting device (100) in at least one Receiving opening (44) of the system body (10) can be inserted, or at least one locking slide (40) of the system body (10) in at least one receiving opening (44 ^λ ) of the retrofitting device (100) can be inserted.

A retrofit device (100) according to any of claims 15 to 26, wherein the retrofit device (100) comprises at least one rolling device (116) for rolling the non-system body (102) attached to the retrofit device (100).

28. Use of a retrofit device (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 27 for retrofitting a body (102) such that by connecting the retrofit device (100) and the body (102) in the connected state of the retrofitted body (102) and a system body (10) by means of

Retrofit device (100) one above the other selectively: vertically removable to be stacked secured against displacement; or vertically undetachably coupled together.