EP3954838A1 - Connection element system for flat profiles to be installed flush with the floor in wet cells - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connection element system for flat profiles to be installed flush with the floor in wet cells, the connection element system being set up to connect two flat profiles to be installed flush with the floor for wet cells along a connection axis without the use of tools, characterized in that the connection element system is set up to connect two flat profiles to be installed flush with the floor To connect flat profiles for wet rooms without tools so that they are secured against drifting apart along the connection axis when connected. Also disclosed is an associated assembly system, method, and use.

Description

The present invention relates to a connecting element system for flat profiles to be installed flush with the floor in wet rooms, in particular in showers, according to the preamble of the independent device claim and an associated mounting system, an associated installation method and an associated use.

Such flat profiles are installed flush with the floor in the wet room and are usually provided on the upper side, which remains visible after installation, with a slope that drains waste water towards a waste water outlet integrated in the flat profile.

Systems are known in which several flat profiles to be installed at floor level for above-ground drainage of waste water are installed in a row along their longitudinal axis in a large wet room in order to be able to realize a large waste water discharge area, such as that required in large showers. Here, the respective end faces of two adjacent flat profiles are bonded to the screed in the wet cell floor using tile adhesive.

However, it has been shown that the flat profiles installed next to each other can move away from each other to a certain extent, i.e. drift apart, due to temperature fluctuations in wet cells in connection with the different thermal expansion coefficients of the flat profiles and the screed. This forms an undesirable gap between adjacent flat profiles, which is not only visually unattractive, but also causes an undesirable seepage of waste water into the gap.

From the DE 10 2013 001 234 A1 flat connectors are known, with which a cross-sectionally L-shaped floor drain rail can be extended at both ends with extension rail pieces. For this purpose, the cross-sectionally dovetail-shaped connecting pieces are inserted along a common connecting axis in cross-sectionally complementary receptacles located on the underside of the floor drain rail and located on the underside of the respective extension rail piece. The connecting pieces serve as assembly aids for the extended floor drain rail when gluing it into the floor of the wet room. The connecting pieces are provided with a structure, such as a fleece, on their underside, which is intended to provide an adhesion bridge to the tile adhesive.

Although systems of this type facilitate the assembly of extended flat profiles, such systems can also lead to the formation of undesirable gaps or to drifting of individual flat profile parts along the connection axis.

The present invention is based on the object of providing a system which enables simple and reliable assembly of multi-part or extended flat profiles in the wet room area and can also prevent undesirable gap formation between adjacent flat profiles or individual flat profile parts.

The present invention solves this problem with a connecting element system according to the features of the independent device claim.

The connection element system is set up to connect two flat profiles for wet cells to be installed flush with the floor along a connection axis without the use of tools. In addition, the connection element system is set up to connect two flat profiles for wet cells to be installed flush with the floor so that they are secured against drifting apart along the connection axis in the connected state.

Surprisingly, it has been shown that it is possible not only to facilitate the assembly of lined-up flat profiles by using tool-free connecting element systems, but at the same time such connecting element systems can also be used to prevent or at least noticeably reduce an undesired drifting apart of the flat profiles. For this purpose, the connecting element system is designed in such a way that it can not only connect two flat profiles to be connected to one another without tools, but can also secure them against unwanted drifting apart along the connecting axis.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the connecting element system can have connecting elements which are set up to connect two flat profiles to be installed at floor level with one another by positive connections and to secure them against drifting apart.

The use of form-fitting connections enables a reliable connection and at the same time secures the flat profiles against drifting apart. Furthermore, form-fitting connections enable defined stops and dimensions when connecting flat profiles.

Furthermore, in one embodiment, the connection element system can have at least one connection element that can be variably positioned in the connection axis direction for connection to a flat profile.

Such a variably positionable connecting element makes it possible to realize different connection points to a flat profile in the direction of the connection axis. This makes it possible, for example, that the same connection element system can be used for different flat profiles with differently positioned connection points. Furthermore, such a variable connecting element system enables flat profiles to be adjusted to the installation situation on site in any length along the connecting axis, i.e. shortened, and the connecting element system can then still be connected with a precise fit to a connection point other than the one intended without shortening.

In an optional embodiment, the connecting element system can have at least one connecting element that can be variably positioned in the direction of the connecting axis for two flat profiles that are to be connected to one another. This gives the aforementioned variability for both flat profiles to be connected to one another.

In a further embodiment, it is possible for the connecting element system to have at least one connecting element, which is firmly positioned in the direction of the connecting axis, for connecting to a flat profile.

Such a firmly positioned connecting element enables a connection point with a flat profile that is easy to implement and is locally defined in the direction of the connection axis.

An optionally possible embodiment, according to which the connecting element system for two flat profiles to be connected to one another has at least one connecting element fixedly positioned in the connection axis direction, also allows two flat profiles to be connected to one another to be connected to one another in a simple and reliable manner in the connection axis direction.

Advantageously, in one possible embodiment, the connecting element system can have a main body extending along the connecting axis and at least one connecting pin for undercut engagement, viewed along the connecting axis, in a flat profile. In this case, the connecting pin and the main body can be set up in such a way that the connecting pin can assume different locking positions on the main body along the connecting axis.

This design allows for a reliable connection between the connecting pin and a flat profile, while the ability for the connecting pin to have different locking positions on the main body along the connection axis allows for great variability for connecting to different connection points along the connection axis of the flat profile. Furthermore, despite the given variability, the locking prevents an unwanted change in the position of the connecting pin. An undercut one Engaging the connecting pin in a flat profile is a reliable solution for connecting to a flat profile that is easy to implement in practice. The combination of undercut engagement of the connecting pin in a flat profile with different locking positions of the connecting pin on the main body allows for a variable yet reliable connecting element system, which can connect flat profiles with differently positioned connecting points for engagement by the connecting pin and can also secure them against drifting apart along the connecting axis .

In an advantageous possible embodiment, the main body can have a guide extending in the direction of the connection axis, in which the connection pin can be accommodated in different locking positions.

The guide can guide the connecting pin in a movement towards the desired locking position relative to the main body, so that it is also possible to move the main body relative to the connecting pin when the connecting pin itself is not accessible for movement, but only the main body.

An optional provision of the guide with a profiled latching connection path, with which the connecting pin can be brought into different locking positions along the connecting axis, also allows a desired guidance together with a reliable and resilient locking ability of the connecting pin.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the connection element system is designed as a plug-in system.

A connection element system designed as a plug-in system represents an easy-to-use and reliable variant of a tool-free connection element system for on-site assembly.

In an optional embodiment, the connecting element system can be inserted along the connecting axis into two flat profiles that are to be connected to one another, which further increases the handling and assembly-friendliness.

In a further optional embodiment, the connecting element system designed as a plug-in system can be completely inserted along the connecting axis into two flat profiles to be connected to one another. This makes it possible, for example, to connect two flat profiles to one another in such a way that the connection element system itself does not protrude in the direction of the connection axis, so that two flat profiles can be connected to one another and secured in abutting manner. Furthermore, it is possible in this embodiment, for example, two flat profiles together to connect and secure against drifting apart, the connection element system itself being completely hidden in the flat profiles and, for example, no longer being visible once the floor installation has been completed.

In one possible embodiment, the connecting element system can favorably have a number of individual parts which can be brought into a locked position in relation to one another.

A multi-part state of the connecting element system and a lockable state that can be brought about, in which the connecting element system can behave like a one-piece system, for example, allow great flexibility when connecting flat profiles, especially if they have complex geometries with connecting points for the connecting element system that are difficult to access. For example, individual parts of the connection element system can first be connected to hard-to-reach connection points of a flat profile or two flat profiles before these individual and then usually more easily accessible parts are brought into a locked position relative to one another with other parts of the connection element system.

Another possible embodiment relates to a mounting system for flat profiles to be installed in wet cells that are flush with the floor, having at least one flat profile for installation in a wet cell that is flush with the floor, which can be connected to another flat profile for installation that is flush with the floor in a wet cell along a connection axis, and a connecting element system according to one of the different Embodiments as previously described here.

In a said combination of flat profile and connection element system as a mounting system, the flat profile and connection element system can be precisely matched to one another.

In a further possible variant of the invention, the at least one flat profile can be designed without a gradient over a partial length along the connection axis directly at one of its two free ends, in particular at both of its free ends.

An embodiment of the profile over a partial length at the free end without a water-draining gradient makes it possible, for example, to insert a connecting element system in this area without a gradient-related narrowing of the cross section of the flat profile being able to impair insertion. It is also possible to shorten the flat profile in the non-sloping section on site, with the shortened point still being able to abut an adjacent flat profile without any offset, since the cross sections of both flat profiles are still the same.

In a further possible embodiment, the at least one flat profile can have connection points spaced apart from one another and arranged along the connection axis for connection to the connection element system, in particular can have connection points in the form of recesses.

A plurality of connection points spaced apart along the connection axis allows, for example, the connection element system to select the most suitable connection point for the design of the connection element system from a number of possible connection points. Furthermore, it is also possible that after the flat profile has been shortened at a point along the connection axis and thus after at least one connection point has been cut away, suitable connection points for the connection element system are still available.

An optional embodiment of the connection points in the form of recesses in the flat profile is a reliable variant that is easy to manufacture.

It is also possible that in one embodiment the at least one flat profile has a profile that extends like a tunnel along the connection axis and into which the connection element system can be inserted.

A tunnel-like profile for inserting the connection element system gives the combination of flat profile and inserted connection element system particular stability and resilience, also in directions transverse to the connection axis.

Furthermore, the object according to the invention is achieved by a method according to the independent method claim.

This relates to a method for the floor-level installation of flat profiles in a wet cell, comprising a tool-free connection of two flat profiles by means of a connection element system, in particular by means of a connection element system according to one of the aforementioned versions, along a connection axis in preparation for the floor-level installation, and securing the two connected flat profiles against drifting apart along the connection axis through the connection element system.

As already explained in connection with the independent device claim, it has surprisingly been shown that it is possible not only to facilitate the assembly of extended flat profiles through the use of tool-free connection element systems, but at the same time such connection element systems can also be used to prevent unwanted drifting apart of the flat profiles is prevented or at least noticeably reduced.

The optional use of a connecting element system according to one of the embodiments described above brings with it further advantages, which become clear from the respective associated explanations.

In one possible embodiment, the method also includes tool-free connection of a first separate part of the connection element system to one of the flat profiles and subsequent tool-free connection of a second separate part of the connection element system to the first part of the connection element system.

These multi-stage connection steps allow the connection element system to be easily connected to a flat profile, even if this has a complex geometry with connection points that are difficult to access. The first part of the connecting element system can be connected to a connection point of the flat profile that is difficult to access, for example, and then the second part of the connecting element system can be connected to the first part at a point that is then more easily accessible.

The object on which the invention is based is also achieved by a use described below.

This involves the use of a tool-free connecting element system, in particular a connecting element system according to one of the embodiments described here above, for securing two flat profiles installed flush with the floor in a wet room and connected to one another along a connecting axis against drifting apart along the connecting axis.

As already explained, it has surprisingly been shown that a tool-free connecting element system can not only be used to connect two flat profiles as an assembly aid, but can also be used at the same time to prevent or at least reduce an undesired drifting apart of the flat profiles.

The optional use of a connection element system according to one of the embodiments described above brings with it further advantages, which become clear from the respective associated explanations.

In a possible embodiment, connecting element systems according to the present invention are set up to secure two flat profiles to be connected to one another against drifting apart up to a drift apart force applied in the connecting axis direction of at least 300 Newtons, in particular at least 600 Newtons.

In preferred possible embodiments of the invention, the connection axis mentioned in connection with the connection element system according to the invention is parallel to or coincide with a main axis of extension of the connecting element system and/or parallel to or coincident with a main axis of extension of the flat profile to be connected, in particular parallel to or coincident with the respective main axes of extension of both flat profiles to be connected to one another.

In possible embodiments, the flat profiles to be connected to one another have a length along their main extension axis in the range from 20 cm to 200 cm, in particular in the range from 60 cm to 160 cm. Optionally, possible widths of said flat profiles can be in the range of 3 cm to 15 cm. Optionally, possible thicknesses or depths of said flat profiles can be in the range from 2 mm to 20 mm, in particular in the range from 5 mm to 15 mm.

In possible embodiments, flat profiles in connection with the invention are made of metal, in particular partially or completely made of stainless steel.

In further possible embodiments, the connection element system according to the invention is made partially or entirely of plastic, for example ABS plastic.

In possible embodiments of the invention, at least one of the two flat profiles to be connected to one another is provided with a waste water conducting slope on its upper side, which is still visible after installation at floor level.

Possible embodiments of the invention, which represent optional combinations of the embodiments described here above, are explained in more detail below with reference to the present figures.

show here

• 1 a schematic perspective view from above of three flat profiles connected to one another along their longitudinal axes in a schematic installation situation, the middle one of the three flat profiles being shown with an inserted drain grid and a floor drain unit installed underneath, and the two other flat profiles not showing the respective associated floor drain unit, the floor of the wet cell itself is not shown for the sake of clarity,
• 2 a perspective view from above of two flat profiles shortly before they are connected to one another, two connecting element systems according to a first embodiment being inserted into one of the two flat profiles,
• 3 an enlarged section of the in figure 2 shown fastener systems,
• 4 a perspective view from below of the enlarged detail 3 ,
• figure 5 Perspective views from below (shown on the left side of the figure) and from above (shown on the right side of the figure) of the Figures 2 to 4 shown fastener system,
• 6 a perspective view from above of part of a flat profile with an inserted connection element system according to a second embodiment,
• 7 a perspective view from below of in figure 6 shown parts,
• 8 a perspective view from above (shown at the top left in the figure) and a perspective view from below (shown at the bottom right in the figure) of an as in FIG figures 6 and 7 shown fastener system,
• 9 a schematic perspective view from above of three flat profiles connected to one another in a corner shape, with the two outer flat profiles each having a floor drain opening, the flat profile on the far right is shown here with the floor drain unit underneath, and the flat profile on the far left is shown without the floor drain unit underneath, and that medium flat profile is a corner connector profile without a floor drain opening,
• the floor of the wet cell itself is not shown for the sake of clarity,
• 10 a perspective view from above of a corner connector profile 9 with inserted connection element system according to the second embodiment,
• 11 a schematic perspective cross-sectional view of a floor-level installation situation, in which case, among other things, a flat profile with a floor drain is connected to a corner connector profile by means of a connecting element system according to the invention.

As in figure 1 It is easy to see that three identical flat profiles 2a, 2b, 2c, each provided with waste water inlet openings 1a, 1b, 1c, are connected to one another along their longitudinal axes or main extension axes A by connecting element systems according to the invention.

The connector systems themselves are not visible from this perspective shown. The connection axes B of the connection element systems are parallel to the longitudinal axes or main extension axes A of the respective flat profiles.

In the installation arrangement shown, two adjacent flat profiles 2a, 2b; 2b, 2c together with one of their narrower end faces. Only the middle 2b of the three flat profiles 2a, 2b, 2c is shown here with the floor drain unit 3 lying underneath in the installed state.

All three flat profiles 2a, 2b, 2c together create a large waste water drainage channel on the floor of a wet room, such as on the floor of a larger shower room. Shower waste water here runs over a tiled floor slope onto the flat profiles 2a, 2b, 2c and is then directed through a slope on the top of the flat profiles above ground to the nearest floor drain opening 1a, 1b, 1c.

Each of the flat profiles 2a-2c has a water-draining slope along its main axis A on its upper side 4a-4c. Immediately beginning at the respective free end of the flat profile, each flat profile has on its upper side 4a - 4c a section 5a - 5c without a gradient along the main axis of extension A, which runs parallel to or coincident with the connection axis B of the connection element systems used, as will be described in more detail later. The length of the section 5a, 5b, 5c without a gradient is preferably in the range from 2 cm to 15 cm. Within the sections 5a - 5c without a slope, the flat profile 2a - 2c can be shortened to a desired length on site by the fitter.

Furthermore, each of the flat profiles 2a - 2c is here at least along a section in a cross-sectional profile perpendicular to the main axis of extension A, and thus also perpendicular to the connection axis, channel-like.

In figure 2 two, two flat profiles 2a, 2b can be seen, which are shown here at a certain distance from one another along their main axes of extension A that lie together. This shows a state shortly before the two flat profiles 2a, 2b are connected.

Two connecting element systems 6 according to a first embodiment of the invention are inserted here into the open end of the left flat profile 2a. These are inserted into two tunnel-like profiles 7a of the flat profile 2a extending along the main axis of extension of the flat profile A and thus also extending along the respective connection axis B, approximately up to half their length. The tunnel-like profiles 7a, 7b run in the lower area of the flat profile 2a - 2c, which is no longer visible after installation at ground level. In this embodiment, the connecting element system 6 is designed as a plug-in system which can be inserted completely along the connecting axis B into the two flat profiles 2a, 2b to be connected to one another.

Like the Figures 3 to 5 can be clearly seen, the connecting element system 6 extends in this first embodiment along a main axis, which at the same time forms the connecting axis B of the connecting element system 6 . At its two opposite free ends 8 , 9 , the connecting element system 6 has a connecting element that is firmly positioned in the connecting axis direction B, here in the form of a resilient latching lug 10 .

The connection element system 6 of this embodiment is designed in one piece.

As in figure 4 is clearly visible, the flat profiles 2a, 2b are provided with connection points for the connection element system 6 in the form of through-hole-like recesses 11 in the tunnel-like profile 7a, 7b on their underside, which is glued to the screed of the wet room with tile adhesive during installation. The connection points are arranged at regular intervals along the connection axis B and thus also along the main axis A of the flat profile. The resilient latching lug 10 of the connecting element system 6 is in this case snapped or hooked into the recess 11 in a form-fitting manner, that is to say undercut to the flat profile 2a when viewed in the connecting axis direction B.

Accordingly, the locking lug 10 located at the other free end 9 can connect to a recess 11 in the second flat profile 2b. As a result, both flat profiles 2a, 2b are then connected to one another along the connection axis B without tools in such a way that they are secured against drifting apart along the connection axis B in the connected state, in particular in the state installed later on the floor.

As in the Figures 3 and 5 can be seen, the outer cross-sectional shape of the connecting element system 9 is adapted to the inner cross-section of the respective tunnel-like profiles 7a, 7b of the flat profiles 2a, 2b, so that the connecting element system 6 can be inserted into the tunnel-like profiles 7a, 7b in the connection axis direction B and thereby can be supported on the inner walls of the tunnel-like profile 7a, 7b. Thus, the two flat profiles 2a, 2b are also secured against drifting apart or against displacement in other directions transversely to the connection axis B by the connection element system 6.

In the Figures 6 to 8 A second embodiment of the connector system 12 is shown.

This second embodiment is also designed as a plug-in system, but this time as a multi-part system. In the figures 6 other 7 the connecting element system 12 is inserted halfway along its extension length in the connection axis direction B, i.e. in the direction of its main extension axis, into a flat profile 13a, more precisely into a tunnel-like profile 14a on the bottom side of the flat profile 13a. In this embodiment too, the outer cross-sectional shape of the connecting element system 12 is adapted to the inner cross-section of the tunnel-like profiles 14a-14c of the flat profiles 13a-13c to be connected with one another, so that the connecting element system 12 can be inserted into the tunnel-like profiles 14a-14c in the connection axis direction B and here can be supported on the inner walls of the tunnel-like profiles 14a-14c. Thus, the two flat profiles 13a, 13c; 13c, 13b; 13a, 13b is also secured against drifting apart in other directions transversely to the connection axis B by the connection element system 12.

As in figure 8 As can be seen, the connection element system 12 in this embodiment has a main body 15, which extends along a main axis of the connection element system 12 and thus along the connection axis B of the connection element system, and a total of four connection elements in the form of connection pins 16 that can be variably positioned in the connection axis direction B.

The connecting pins 16 are separate parts here, each of which is guided in a guide 17 extending along the connecting axis B. In this case, each guide has a profiled latching connection section 18 . The snap-in connection section 18 can have a profile, for example, which allows a non-destructive relative movement of the connecting pin 16 to the main body 15 in both directions along the connection axis B when great force is exerted, for example a wave-shaped snap-in profile, or can have a snap-in profile, which only allows a non-destructive movement in one which allows both directions along the connection axis B, for example a sawtooth profile with steeper flanks in one direction. In such a case, the non-destructive direction of movement would be from the free end of the main body 15 in the connection axis direction B towards the center of the main body 15.

Each connecting pin 16 has a correspondingly complementary profile 19 at its contact points with the latching connection section 18, so that regardless of the specific latching profile geometry (whether wavy or sawtooth-shaped), there is always at least a slight form fit between the connecting pin and latching connection section, i.e. always at least a slight undercut of the interlocking profiles, when viewed in the connection axis direction, is given.

The connection element system 12 also has on its in figure 8 bottom right, shown in each of its two halves, a firmly positioned connecting element, here in the form of resilient locking lugs 20. These additional connecting elements 20 can serve as additional or alternative connecting elements to a flat profile 13a -13c, depending on the specific design of the respective flat profile . A secure connection between the connecting element system 12 and each of the two flat profiles 13a, 13b, 13c can thus be established via one or more connecting elements that can be variably positioned in the connecting axis direction B, for example in the form of connecting pins 16, and/or via a fixedly positioned connecting element, for example in the form of a resilient Detent 20 are produced. One The coexistence of both connecting elements 16, 20 in the connecting element system 12 increases the versatility of the connecting element system 12 for different flat profile designs 13a-13c.

As in figure 7 As can be seen, the two connecting pins 16 of one half of the connecting element system 12 (here the left half) each engage with their lower section 21, which is located below a step-like stop 22 of the connecting pin 16 for the surrounding profile wall, in a form-fitting manner in two recesses 23 on the Flat profile 13a, ie undercut when viewed in the connection axis direction B, a.

As a result, the connecting element system 12 is securely connected to the one flat profile 13a, so that the flat profile 13a cannot be removed from the connecting element system 12. Correspondingly, the connecting element system 12 can also be connected to a second flat profile 13c or 13b on its half which is still free. After that, both flat profiles 13a, 13c; 13a, 13b; 13c, 13b are connected to each other without tools by the connecting element system 12 along the connecting axis B, in such a way that both flat profiles are secured against drifting apart, here against drifting apart along the connecting axis B, and thus along the common main axis of extension A, as well as in others Directions transverse to the connection axis B.

figure 9 shows a schematic, possible installation situation, in which a flat profile in the form of a corner connector profile 13c is connected at its two open ends to a flat profile 13a, 13b, which has a waste water inlet opening 1, and the flat profiles 13a - 13c are secured against drifting apart in all directions .

In comparison to the flat profiles 13a, 13b with the waste water inlet opening 1, the corner connector profile 13c has no waste water-carrying gradient here on its upper side.

the end figure 10 it becomes clear here that the corner connector profile 13c extends along two main axes C1, C2, which here are at a 90° angle to one another. The corner connector profile 13c thus also has two potential connection axes B if it is connected at both ends to a further flat profile in each case by connection element systems 12 according to the invention. In further embodiments, the main axes C1, C2 and thus the connection axes in such corner connector profiles 13 can also have any other axis angle positions relative to one another, such as 45°, 135° or 180°. At 180°, the flat profile would no longer be a corner connector profile 13c, but rather an extension or intermediate piece for flat profiles 13a, 13b without a gradient.

How to figure 10 can also be seen, the corner connector profile 13c also has a tunnel-like profile 14c at both of its open ends, into which the connection element system 12 can be inserted up to halfway along the connection axis B. On the underside of the tunnel-like profile 14c, not shown, is the corner connector profile 13c with recesses 23 along the two connecting or main axes C1; C2 provided, in which in this embodiment of the connecting element system 12, the variably positioned connecting pins 16 and fixed-positioned locking lugs 20 can engage.

figure 11 shows a schematic perspective cross-sectional representation of a floor-level installation of flat profiles 13a - 13c, wherein, among other things, a flat profile 13a with waste water inlet opening 1 and underlying floor drain unit 3 is connected to a flat profile in the form of a corner connector profile 13c with a previously described connecting element system 12.

As you can see, the flat profiles 13a - 13c are laid flush with the floor when installed, i.e. flush with the floor of the wet cells, i.e. usually with the backsplash. How to figure 1 describe, the flat profiles 13a, 13b have at their respective ends on their upper side sections 24a, 24b that can be cut to length and without a water-conducting gradient.

The mode of operation of the invention and its use are briefly explained below.

When assembling the in Figures 2 to 5 In the connecting element system 6 shown according to the first embodiment, the fitter inserts the first end of the connecting element system 6 halfway into the first tunnel-shaped profile 7a of a first flat profile 2a to be connected, until the resilient latching lug 10 of the connecting element system 6 engages in a form-fitting manner in a recess 11 provided. The fitter then repeats the process with a further connection element system 6 according to the invention for the second tunnel-shaped profile 7a, which is located parallel next to the first tunnel-shaped profile 7a of the first flat profile 2a to be connected.

Now the ends of the two connecting element systems 6, 6 that are still free are inserted into corresponding tunnel-shaped profiles 7b, 7b of a second flat profile 2b, each along the connection axis, until the locking lugs 10 of the free ends also engage in a form-fitting manner in the recesses 11 provided in the second flat profile 2b. A similar process is repeated for connecting the flat section 2b to the flat section 2c. The three flat profiles 2a, 2b, 2c that are now connected to one another can then be glued to the wet cell screed using tile adhesive. Here, the fitter ensures that the floor drain openings 1a, 1b, 1c of the flat profiles 2a - 2c come to rest in a suitable manner with the floor drain units 3 already preinstalled in the wet cell floor.

The use of corner connector profiles is just as possible in this first embodiment of the connecting element system 6 as required, as explained above in connection with the figures of the second embodiment.

The connecting element systems 6 enable easy handling of the flat profiles 2a, 2b, 2c connected to one another as a unit and prevent, for example, an unwanted vertical or horizontal offset of the flat profiles 2a, 2b, 2c from one another during the assembly process, in particular when gluing to the wet cell floor. At the same time, each connecting element system 6 secures its respective connected flat profiles 2a-2c after installation at floor level by the snapped-in locking lugs against drifting apart along the connecting axis B, which lies parallel to the main extension axes A, so that unwanted gap formation at the joints of adjacent flat profiles is prevented.

An assembly of the connection element system according to the second embodiment, as shown in FIGS Figures 6 to 8 shown, differs from the first embodiment in that, in a first step, two of the connecting pins 16, which are still separate at the beginning of assembly, are individually inserted from the inside into corresponding recesses 23 in the comparatively narrow tunnel-like profile 14a-14c of the corresponding flat profile 13a-13c. Both connecting pins 16 come into a defined seat in the respective recess 23 via the stop 22 provided on the connecting pin 16. Since initially only individual connecting pins 16 have to be positioned in the tunnel-like profile 14a, 14b, 14c, this is possible for the installer despite the difficult accessibility easily possible. The main body 15 is then pushed in along the connection axis B and also along the main extension axis A or C1, C2 of the flat profile 13a-13c and thus also of the tunnel-like profile 14a-14c. The respective connecting pin 16 then moves relatively along the guide 17 over a certain length of the latching connection path 18 until the main body 15 can no longer be pushed further into the first flat profile, eg 13a, for example via a stop provided. The connecting element system 12 is now securely connected to the first flat profile, eg 13a, and the connecting pins 16 have assumed a locked position on the main body 15, which, depending on the design, can only be released with a great deal of force or no longer without being destroyed.

The fitter can then, for example, shorten a second flat profile that is still too long, e.g repeat second flat profile 13b. The connecting pins 16 are then inserted into the first available recesses 23 of the then shortened flat profile 13b and then connected to the main body 15 in the manner described by pushing in the still free end of the main body 15 . The connecting pins 16 thus assume locked positions relative to the main body 15 and thus connect the two flat profiles 13a, 13b flush with each other by means of a form fit, securely against drifting apart along the connecting axis B. The coordinated inner dimensions of the respective tunnel-like profile 14a and the outer dimensions of the connecting element system 12 are the two flat profiles, eg 13a, 13b, are also secured against drifting apart in other directions transverse to the connection axis direction.

Where it has already been described previously, corner connector profiles 13c can be used during assembly, as required figure 10 described and further in figures 9 and 11 shown to be used. In such a case, for example, the latching lugs 20 of the connecting element system 12, which are firmly positioned in the connection axis direction B, can be securely connected to corresponding recesses 23 on the underside of the corner connector profile 13c, either in addition to the connection by means of connecting pins 16 or instead of using the connecting pins 16.

Claims (15)

Connecting element system (6, 12) for flat profiles (2a-2c, 13a-13c) to be installed flush with the floor in wet cells, wherein
the connecting element system (6, 12) is set up to connect two flat profiles (2a-2c, 13a-13c) for wet cells to be installed flush with the floor without tools along a connecting axis (B),
characterized in that
the connection element system (6, 12) is set up to connect two flat profiles (2a-2c, 13a-13c) for wet cells to be installed flush with the floor so that they are secured against drifting apart along the connection axis (B) in the connected state. Connection element system (6, 12) according to claim 1,
characterized in that the connecting element system (6, 12) has connecting elements (10, 16, 20) which are set up to connect two flat profiles (2a-2c, 13a-13c) to be installed at ground level by form-fitting connections and to prevent them from drifting apart to secure. Connecting element system (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the connection element system (12) has at least one connection element (16) that can be variably positioned in the connection axis direction (B) for connection to a flat profile (13a-13c), in particular that the connection element system (12) for two flat profiles (13a-13c) to be connected to one another at least has a connecting element that can be variably positioned in the connecting axis direction (B). Connecting element system (6, 12) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the connecting element system (6, 12) has at least one connecting element (10, 20) fixed in the connecting axis direction (B) for connecting to a flat profile (2a-2c, 13a-13c), in particular for two flat profiles (2a-2c) to be connected to one another, 13a-13c) each having at least one connecting element (10, 20) fixedly positioned in the direction of the connecting axis (B). Connecting element system (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the connecting element system (12) has a main body extending along the connecting axis (B) and at least one connecting pin (16) for undercut engagement in a flat profile (13a-13c) viewed along the connecting axis (B), the connecting pin (16) and the Main body (15) are set up so that the connecting pin (16) can assume different locking positions on the main body (15) along the connecting axis (B). Connection element system (12) according to Claim 5, characterized in that the main body (15) has a guide (17) extending in the direction of the connection axis (B) and in which the connecting pin (16) can be accommodated in various locking positions, in particular the guide (17 ) has a profiled snap-in connecting section (18) with which the connecting pin (16) can be brought into different locking positions along the connecting axis (B). Connecting element system (6, 12) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the connection element system (6, 12) is designed as a plug-in system, in particular the connection element system (6, 12) can be inserted along the connection axis (B) into two flat profiles (2a, 2b; 13a, 13b) to be connected to one another, particularly completely into two with one another connecting flat profiles (2a, 2b; 13a, 13b) can be inserted along the connecting axis (B). Connection element system (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection element system (12) has a plurality of individual parts (15, 16) which can be brought into a locked position relative to one another. Mounting system for flat profiles to be installed flush with the floor in wet cells, having
at least one flat profile (2a, 13a; 2b, 13b; 2c, 13c) for floor-level installation in a wet room, which is connected to a further flat profile (2b, 13b; 2c, 13c; 2b, 13b) for floor-level installation in a wet room along a connecting axis (B) is connectable,
and a connector system (6, 12) according to any one of the preceding claims. Mounting system according to Claim 9, characterized in that the at least one flat profile extends directly over a partial length (5a-5c, 24a-24c) along the connection axis (B). at one of its two free ends, in particular at both of its free ends, is designed without a gradient on the upper side. Mounting system according to one of Claims 9 or 10, characterized in that the at least one flat profile (2a, 13a; 2b, 13b; 2c, 13c) has connection points (11, 23) spaced apart from one another on its underside and arranged along the connection axis (B) for Connecting to the connecting element system (6, 12), in particular having connecting points (11, 23) in the form of recesses. Mounting system according to one of Claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the at least one flat profile (2a, 13a; 2b, 13b; 2c, 13c) is a profile (7a-7b, 14a-14c) extending like a tunnel along the connecting axis (B). has, into which the connecting element system (6, 12) can be inserted. Method for installing flat profiles flush with the floor in a wet room, comprising
a tool-free connection of two flat profiles (2a, 2b; 13a, 13b; 13a, 13c) by means of a connection element system (6, 12), in particular by means of a connection element system according to one of Claims 1 to 8, along a connection axis (B) in preparation for the floor-level installation , marked by
securing the two connected flat profiles (2a, 2b; 13a, 13b; 13a, 13c) against drifting apart along the connection axis (B) by the connection element system (6, 12). The method of claim 13, further comprising
a tool-free connection of a first separate part (16) of the connection element system (12) to one of the flat profiles (13a, 13b, 13c) and a subsequent tool-free connection of a second separate part (15) of the connection element system (12) to the first part (16) of the connecting element system (12). Use of a tool-free connecting element system (6, 12), in particular a connecting element system according to one of Claims 1 to 8, for securing two flat profiles (2a-2c, 13a-13c) installed level with the floor in a wet cell and connected to one another along a connecting axis (B) against one another Drifting apart along the connection axis (B).

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