EP1199002B1 - Locking device for a container and also a container equipped with such a locking device - Google Patents

Abstract

The locking arrangement (11) comprises a first (16) and second (17) locking piece for the two parts of the container. The first locking pieces contain at least one control (33a,b) which can be switched between an open and closed position and which is connected to a first engaging element (26a,b) of the first locking piece. The control can engage with a second engaging element (28a,b) on the second locking piece. The second locking pieces contain at least one blocking element (53) protruding into the path of a thrust piece (38) to block the control. An opening mechanism (56) removes the blocking element.

Description

The invention relates to a closure device for a Containers, for example for a travel or tool case, with a locking device for releasable mutual Lock two container parts when closed Container, the first intended for the first container part Locking means and intended for the second container part has second locking means, the first Locking means at least one between an open position and a closed position switchable actuator included with the at least a first engagement member first locking means is motionally coupled, which in the open position of the actuator an interlocking with a second engagement member of the second Locking means standing release position and in the Closed position of the actuator in a locking engagement with the second engagement member standing locking position can take.

The invention further relates to one with such Closure device equipped container.

Such a closure device with an associated container emerges from DE 3142588 C2 and from DE 3153422 C2. A container is provided, the two relative to each other has movable container parts, which when closed The containers lie on top of each other. The closed container state can be releasably locked, for which purpose a Locking device is provided, which on the two Container parts arranged first and second locking means that can be brought in and out of engagement.

The first locking means provided on the first container part have two swivel-mounted, hook-like ones first engagement members, which are resilient in a locking position are biased. Rest when closing the container second engagement members provided on the second container part into the first engagement members. To open the container a slide is actuated, the first engagement members deflects into a release position against the spring force, so that the second engaging members for opening the container can be excavated.

Since in the known locking device, the locking state solely by spring loading the swiveling first engagement elements is guaranteed, the Damage to this spring means accidental opening of the container.

A comparable structure with corresponding problems have in EP 0 017 539 A1, EP 0 006 645 B1, DT 2166699 A1 and closure devices described in EP 0 018 106 A1.

It is the object of the invention to provide a closure device to create a container that works safely features. Furthermore, one with such Closure device equipped container proposed become.

To solve this problem is with a closure device of the type mentioned that the second locking means contain at least one blocking member, the in the case of combined locking means in the adjustment path one directly formed by the actuator or protrudes with this motion-coupled stop part and the actuator blocked in the closed position, and that there is an opening mechanism with which the Remove blockage of the actuator and the actuator can switch back to the open position.

The object is further achieved by one with such Closure device equipped container.

This ensures mechanical locking of the locking position that of the first locking means, at least achieved an engaging member by a blocking member belonging to the second locking means. This will automatically lock the locking position when locking means are combined, that is reached with the container closed, and an unintended Switch back from the locked position to the Release position is prevented when the container is closed. The blocking member works with one in the blocking position Stop part together, either directly from the with the engaging member cooperating actuator is or as a separate, but with the actuator motion-coupled component is executed. To open the closed and thus secured container is an opening mechanism provided with which the blockade of the Actuator can be lifted and caused by can that the actuator associated with the stop member switches back to the open position, so that the assigned first engagement member from the previously taken Locked position is moved to the release position.

Advantageous developments of the invention emerge from the subclaims out.

The opening mechanism expediently has a adjustable opener, which has a deflection surface, by to open a container in this way on the stop part can be influenced that this relative to the blocking member experiences a deflection and is therefore able to block the blocking member to pass sideways, causing the actuator it is possible to switch to the open position. The deflection surface can be, for example, an inclined surface be with the increasing adjustment distance of the opener little effort a gradual deflection of the stop part causes. The stop part is expedient biased into the undeflected position by spring means, so that it can return to it automatically, when it is no longer actively held in the deflected position becomes.

In principle, it would be possible to provide spring means that Actuator automatically in after lifting the block relocate the open position and thereby the actuator motion-coupled first engagement member in the Spend release position. However, for the purpose of Preferred to maintain a particularly high level of operational security, to equip the opener with an additional surface, with the manually generated publisher of the Opener an active loading of the deflected stop part can be done in such a way that this through the area of application is actively moved past the blocking member. The adjustable opener not only causes the deflection of the Actuator, but also its switching to the open position.

The at least one blocking member is preferably tongue-like trained and arranged so that it to the first locking means protrudes.

In a further advantageous design, it is provided that the first locking means on the second locking means facing side, for example from the Have a defined end surface on the outer surface of a profile strip, which covers the locking mechanism and behind the at least one first engagement member in the release position is moved back, with each first engagement member a recess is assigned to the end surface, through which it will protrude when the locking position is reached can. In this way it can be achieved that the first engagement member in the release position not disturbing protrudes, but is sunk into a protected position, which even with hook-like design injuries to the use container equipped with the closure device Exclude person.

At least the release position of the at least is expedient a first engagement member fixed by spring means, expediently by resilient action on the with the engagement member motion-coupled actuator. In this context in particular, it is special advantageous if the at least one blocking member has a double function has and also the function of an admission element takes over that when closing the container in Stop position located acted upon and in toggles the closed position where it passes through the striker Exercise the blocking function on an unintentional downshift prevents.

There may also be spring means which are resilient Cause the actuators to be fixed in the closed position, in particular, an execution is selected at the spring means causing a bistable fixation are present are who are capable of both the open position as well to fix the closed position and one when loaded Transition between these positions as part of a snap effect to enable.

An advantage of the closure device is also that the at least one blocking member and the at least one second engagement member as independent components of the second Locking means can be carried out so that the corresponding components specifically with regard to the individual Function to be performed can be designed.

There is a possibility of the first locking means the closure device with only one actuator and associated first engagement member. This solution is particularly recommended for smaller containers. Especially for larger containers, however, it is appropriate to Container parts of the closed container in several places to lock at certain points, in which cases it is advisable several, at least one actuator each and at least locking units containing a first engagement member be provided, the functional in particular are linked in such a way that they work synchronously, which can be realized, for example, that everyone Locking units a common opening mechanism assigned.

There is the possibility of several locking units to connect immediately in series, the opening mechanism is assigned to only one actuator and the next coupled actuator by the movement of the first Actuator is activated.

There is also the possibility of two locking units to be placed side by side and the opening mechanism assign centrally to the area in between, so that it interact with both locking units simultaneously can.

If there are several locking units, there is Possibility of a symmetrical arrangement with the same Length of the actuators as well as the possibility to an asymmetrical arrangement with actuators different Length. The latter enables particularly flexible an adaptation to different container dimensions.

Although it would be possible in principle, the at least one actuator in the form of a pure slider, particular advantages are achieved with a design in which the actuator is designed as a pivoted lever is, the first lever arm with a first engagement element works together and its second lever arm a stop part is assigned. The switching movement of the actuator here is a kind of seesaw movement, which is the advantage has that, unlike a slide solution, the in Length of the actuator measured length first locking means can be kept relatively low can, so that the closure device takes up little space. There is also no need for complex sliding bearings be because you can attain an easier Can use swivel bearings.

Are two locking units provided, the actuators each according to the type of the pivot lever explained a motion coupling is recommended in such a way that that between the two facing second Lever arms of the actuators simultaneously on these two Coupling means attacking second lever arms are provided are in the synchronous switching movement of the actuators a translational movement in the swivel plane To run. These coupling agents can be used simultaneously form a stop part assigned to both actuators, that can work with a blocking member, so that with only one blocking member both actuators in the Closed position can be secured.

Alternatively or additionally, the coupling means can also Contain spring means that are located between the second two Support the lever arms and thereby the actuators at the same time in the existing open position or Preload closed position.

The opening mechanism expediently has its activation via a manually adjustable opener, the for example as a handle or as a turned part with an eccentric could be executed. With a particularly simple and the functionally reliable variant is slider-like trained and in order to act on the stop part a working level adjustable with the swivel levels of the Actuators coincide or run parallel to them.

To the inside of one equipped with a locking device Securing the container from unauthorized access can Locking device also, for example, a combination lock have containing locking device. The locking device expediently cooperates with the opening mechanism, for example, such that they are the actuation a movable opener of the opening mechanism prevented.

Fig. 1

in perspektivischer schematischer Darstellung einen teilweise geöffneten Behälter, der mit einer bevorzugten Bauform der erfindungsgemäßen Verschlußvorrichtung ausgestattet ist,

Fig. 2

die bei dem Behälter gemäß Fig. 1 verwendete Verschlußvorrichtung in vergrößerter perspektivischer Einzeldarstellung mit Blick gemäß Pfeil A aus Fig. 1 bei geöffnetem Behälter und getrennten Verriegelungsmitteln,

Fig. 3 und 4

in einer der Fig. 2 entsprechenden Darstellungsweise verschiedene Phasen des Schließvorganges der Verschlußvorrichtung während des Schließens des zugeordneten Behälters,

Fig. 5

in vergleichbarer Darstellungsweise den verriegelten Zustand der Verschlußvorrichtung bei geschlossenem Behälter und vereinigten Verriegelungsmitteln,

Fig. 6 bis 9

die Verschlußvorrichtung aus Fig. 1 in Einzeldarstellung in einer Stirnansicht gemäß Pfeil B aus Fig. 1, ohne Abbildung des Behälters, wobei die Darstellungen den in Fig. 2 bis 5 wiedergegebenen Zuständen entsprechen und wobei der besseren Übersichtlichkeit wegen die im Vordergrund liegende Verriegelungseinheit nicht dargestellt ist,

Fig. 10 und 11

verschiedene Phasen des Öffnungsvorganges der Verschlußvorrichtung in einer den Fig. 2 bis 5 entsprechenden perspektivischen Darstellungsweise,

Fig. 12

in vergleichbarer Darstellungsweise den entriegelten Zustand der Verschlußvorrichtung bei noch nicht voneinander entfernten, vereinigten Verriegelungsmitteln, was einem Zustand des noch geschlossenen, gleichzeitig aber bei Bedarf zu öffnenden Behälters entspricht,

Fig. 13 bis 15

die in Fig. 10 bis 12 abgebildeten Zustände der Verschlußvorrichtung in einer Stirnansicht entsprechend der Darstellungsweise der Fig. 6 bis 9 und

Fig. 16

eine schematische Teildarstellung der ersten Verriegelungsmittel einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Verschlußvorrichtung mit Blickrichtung gemäß Pfeil A aus Fig. 1.

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawing. The individual shows:

Fig. 1

a perspective schematic representation of a partially open container, which is equipped with a preferred design of the closure device according to the invention,

Fig. 2

1 in an enlarged perspective individual view with a view according to arrow A from FIG. 1 with the container open and separate locking means used,

3 and 4

in a representation corresponding to FIG. 2 different phases of the closing process of the closure device during the closing of the assigned container,

Fig. 5

in a comparable representation, the locked state of the closure device when the container is closed and the locking means are combined,

6 to 9

1 in an end view according to arrow B from FIG. 1, without the container being shown, the representations corresponding to the states shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 and, for better clarity, the locking unit in the foreground not shown is

10 and 11

different phases of the opening process of the closure device in a perspective representation corresponding to FIGS. 2 to 5,

Fig. 12

in a comparable representation, the unlocked state of the closure device when the combined locking means have not yet been removed from one another, which corresponds to a state of the container which is still closed but can also be opened if necessary,

13 to 15

the states of the closure device shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 in a front view corresponding to the representation of FIGS. 6 to 9 and

Fig. 16

2 shows a schematic partial representation of the first locking means of a further embodiment of the closure device with the viewing direction according to arrow A from FIG. 1.

1 shows a travel suitcase or, for example a tool case representing container 1, the one has first container part 2 and a second container part 3. In the embodiment, the two container parts 2, 3 each carried out like a shell, the illustrated sharp edges can be rounded off easily.

The first container part 2 defines a lower container part a bottom wall 4, which has a rectangular plan and a total of four first side walls 5 from the edges thereof stick out the same side.

The second container part 3 defines in the embodiment a tank top, one in terms of floor plan the bottom wall 4 corresponding ceiling wall 6 and four of them Second side walls 7 protruding to the same side having.

The side walls 5, 7 are only partially visible. The container parts 2, 3 are assigned to each other such that when closed Container the first and second side walls 5, 7 are facing each other and aligned with their free edges lie on one another. In this way, the two limit Container parts 2, 3 a container interior 8.

The two container parts 2, 3 are in the area of the rear Side walls 5, 7 by hinge means, not shown hinged together so that they are relative to each other are pivotable to either a closed or to keep an opened container state. 1 shows a possible opened container state, the two container parts 2, 3, however, very closely approximated are so that to engage in the container interior 8 released access opening 12 dimensioned relatively small is.

The container 1 also regularly has suitable ones Handling means, for example one or more handles and / or castors, but not shown in detail are.

The further description is based on an embodiment of the container 1, in which the one lying on top in FIG. 1 second container part 3 acts as a lid that can be opened and Closing the container 1 is pivoted up or down.

When container 1 is closed, the front first side walls border 5a, 7a of the two container parts 2, 3 with their longitudinal edges directly against each other, whereby their inner surfaces 13, 14 at least in the joint area in one common level. This front first and second sidewalls 5a, 7a is generally referenced 15 designated locking device associated with it allows the two container parts 2, 3 when closed Container releasably lock each other and on an unwanted To prevent opening.

The closure device 15 contains a locking device 11 with the first arranged on the first container part 2 Locking means 16 and arranged on the second container part 3 second locking means 17 which cooperate with each other can. The locking means are expedient 16, 17 each on the inner surface 13, 14 of the associated fixed front first and second side wall 5a, 7a, namely in the one facing the other container part Edge area of the relevant side wall.

In the embodiment, the first and second locking means 16, 17 each executed as a structural unit, the using fasteners, not shown, very much simply be mounted on the relevant container part 2, 3 can.

In this context, the first and second locking means 16, 17 each via an expedient elongated first or second carrier 18, 19 for fixing to the respective container part serves and at least for the most part, preferably however, all components of the respective locking means carries and / or includes.

The two carriers 18, 19 are U-shaped in the exemplary embodiment profiled and with the open long side ahead the inner surface 13, 14 of the front side walls 5a, 7a are attached, so that a closed impression is given and all moving parts housed in the carrier interior 22 can be, so that damage in the container 1st objects to be stored is prevented.

The first locking means 16 are on the second Locking means facing side of an end surface 23 limited by the appropriately oriented outer surface of the first carrier 18 is formed. You want one provided against the second carrier 19 opposite surface 24 with the container open more or less far from the End surface 23 is spaced when the container is closed however, the end face 23 is immediately adjacent or to the plant.

The first locking means 16 contain in the embodiment two in the longitudinal direction of the first carrier 18 and the assigned first side wall 5 next to each other at a distance placed locking units 25a, 25b. Each of these locking units 25a, 25b is with a first engagement member 26a, 26b equipped with respect to the first carrier 18 an axis of rotation 27a, 27b is rotatably supported.

Each first engagement member 26a, 26b of the first locking means 16 is one of the second locking means 17 associated second engagement member 28a, 28b assigned. I'm willing to cooperate State of the two locking means 16, 17, which emerges from FIGS. 5 and 12, are the first and second engagement members 26a, 28a; 26b, 28b in the through Double arrow indicated opening and closing direction 32 of the Container parts 2, 3 in alignment opposite.

An elongated one engages on each first engagement member 26a, 26b Actuator 33a, 33b, via which an actuating force the associated first engagement member 26a, 26b are exerted can, to do the latter between, for example, in FIG. 2 and 12 release position shown and one shown in Fig. 5 Swivel locking position.

The two actuators 33a, 33b are in the embodiment designed as a pivotable two-armed lever, its first lever arm 34, in particular at the end, engages the associated first engagement member 26a, 26b. The Attack point 36 is articulated and is located at a radial distance from the axis of rotation 27a, 27b, one too these axes of rotation 27a, 27b each have a parallel axis of rotation 37a, 37b is defined.

The second lever arm 35 of a respective actuator 33a, 33b is assigned a stop part 38. This could be in principle directly from the assigned actuator 33a, 33b could be formed, for example, in a structural unit with the second lever arm 35 of the actuator 33a, 33b. In the embodiment, however a different design is selected in which the stop part 38 separate component with respect to the actuators 33a, 33b is, however, with these actuators 33a, 33b There is a coupling of motion. This coupling of motion is so executed that actuating forces exerted on the stop part are transmitted to the associated actuator 33a, 33b.

Each actuator 33a, 33b could be assigned only to it Have stop part 38. In the embodiment is however, only one stop part 38 is present, which at the same time with both actuators 33a, 33b motion-coupled is. 2 extend between the two each other facing second lever arms 35 of the two neighboring Locking units 25a, 25b simultaneously on both second Lever arms 35 attacking coupling means 42, which include only stop member 38.

The stop part 38 can be, for example, a sleeve body be formed with axial and radial play on the two facing end sections of the second Lever arms 35 is attached. The latter can be in the stop part 38 has engaging receiving pins 43.

The coupling means 42 expediently also contain spring means 44, which are supported between the second lever arms 35 and exert a pushing force on them. In the embodiment are the spring means 44 of a helical compression spring formed concentrically inside the sleeve-like Stop part 38 sits and for centering on the Locating pin 43 engages.

Both actuators 33a, 33b are on the first carrier 18 pivotally mounted. The pivot bearing 45 is conveniently placed so that the two emanating from there Lever arms 34, 35 are of equal length. However, too unequal length ratios of the lever arms possible. Through the a pivot axis 46 is defined for each pivot bearing point 45, which runs parallel to the axes of rotation mentioned above.

By appropriately directed loading of the stop part 38, the two actuators 33a, 33b in Frame with respect to the pivot axis 46 Pivotal movement between an example from Fig. 2 and 6 obvious open position and one example 5 and 9 apparent closed position can be switched.

Since the actuators 33a, 33b with their first lever arm 34 engage the first engagement members 26a, 26b each position of an actuator 33a, 33b a certain Position of the coupled first engagement member 26a, 26b assigned. In the open position of an actuator 33a, 33b takes the assigned first engagement member 26a, 26b a release position, the closed position of the actuator 33a, 33b corresponds to a locking position of the associated first engagement member 26a, 26b. The transition between the release position and the locking position the first engagement members 26a, 26b takes place in the frame a pivoting movement about the axis of rotation 27a, 27b. The two of them Locking mechanism including locking units 25a, 25b the first locking means 16 is included of the stop part 38 in the carrier interior 22 of the first carrier 18 and is housed by the end surface 23 covered. Each first engagement member 26a, 26b however, a recess 47 is assigned in the end face 23, the U-leg concerned in the embodiment of the first carrier 18 and the first engaging member 26a, 26b allows passage.

In the release position, the first engagement members 26a, 26b moved back behind the end surface 23, so take a recessed position with respect to the end face 23, so that there is no risk of injury on protruding sharp edges consists. When changing to the locked position partially engages the first engagement member 26a, 26b Recess 47 until it reaches the locking position is.

In this process, the first engagement member 26a, 26b has the Possibility of approximating the second engagement member 28a, 28b 5 to reach behind. In this way, the two locking means 16, 17 locked together and an associated container 1 prevented from opening. The one there total occupied by the closure device 15 locked state is shown in Fig. 5.

The first engagement members 26a, 26b are in the embodiment hook-shaped and engage in the locked position with a hook section 48 through each associated recess 47 therethrough. The second engaging members 28a, 28b are from the edge of an opening 52 second locking means 17 formed in the counter surface 24 is formed and the associated U-leg of the second carrier 19 penetrates. In the locked state according to 5, the first engagement members 26a, 26b with their Hook sections 48 through the openings 52 through Reach behind the edge of this opening.

The second locking means 17 contain a blocking member 53, which is able to with the container 1 closed and consequently combined locking means 16, 17 in the Adjustment path of the stop member 38 to protrude and the actuators 33a, 33b to block in the closed position.

This state can be seen in FIG. 5. That way reliable mechanical protection against accidental Unlocking achieved, the locking function automatically of the second locking means 17 or their blocking member 53 is exercised and accordingly depends on whether the assigned container is open or closed or whether the locking means 16, 17 are combined or are apart. To the security function to obtain, it is sufficient to close the container additional handling is not necessary.

Instead of just one blocking element, several could also be used Blocking elements are present. The latter especially if each locking unit 25a, 25b has its own stop part and thus several stop parts at the same time must be blocked.

In the following, starting from the state of an opened container 2 automatically when the container is closed triggered locking process are described. there is also on other design features of the Locking device received.

When the container is open, the actuators 33a, 33b usually the open position shown in FIG. 2 one with a simultaneous taking of the release position the one that is motion-coupled to the actuators 33a, 33b goes first engagement members 26a, 26b. The above mentioned spring means 44 fix this state because they open the rocker arm-like actuators 33a, 33b a torque exercise towards the open position. As an abutment suitable support surfaces serve for the spring force, in particular are formed by the first carrier 18, in particular from the inner surface opposite the end surface 23 of the first carrier 18.

When the container 1 is closed, the blocking member approaches 53 corresponding to the opening and closing direction 32 to the first locking means 16 and finally engages an opening 54 into it. The breakthrough 54 is formed in the end surface 23, namely in an area opposite the stop part 38.

In this way, the blocking member 53 is able to Stop part 38 to exert an actuating force with respect to the Actuators 33a, 33b a torque in the sense of switching in the closed position. The actuators 33a, 33b are gradually in the closed position pivoted, the same time the first engagement members 26a, 26b pivoted in the direction of the locking position being able to get into the approaching Immerse openings 52 of the second carrier 19 and ultimately locking the second engagement members 28a, 28b to fall behind.

The movement sequence described goes from FIGS. 2 to 5 and 6 to 9 out.

The arrangement of the embodiment is such that the two second lever arms 35 in the open position and in the closed position on opposite sides of an imaginary, the connecting line connecting the two pivot bearing points 45 55 lie. They are in the open position on the side facing the blocking member 53 Connection line 55. As a result, the spring means 42 at the transition between the two end positions and at Crossing the connecting line 55 a maximum dead center Go through compression. This results in a snap effect with bistable resilient fixation of the actuators 33a, 33b, which are therefore both in the open position and be held in the closed position with spring support.

Regarding the spring means, however, it should be noted that these could be placed elsewhere if necessary, so that, for example, between the first carrier 18 and a respective actuator 33a, 33b are effective. It would be possible in the area of a respective swivel bearing 45 To provide spring means for the respective actuator 33a, 33b.

After the locked state according to FIG. 5 is reached, is the blocking member 53 is still in the by possible swivel movement defined adjustment path of the stop part 38 and prevents them from switching back to the open position.

In the switching process explained lead the stop part 38 or the coupling means 42 containing the same translatory linear movement, their direction of movement expediently with the opening and closing direction 32 coincides with the immersion direction of the blocking member 53 defined with respect to the opening 52. Due to the radial and axial play mentioned above, the Changes in position of the second bearing the stop member Lever arms 35 compensated.

The blocking member 53 is in the area of the counter surface 24 arranged second carrier 19, from which it towards protrudes first carrier 18. It is preferably tongue-like or designed like a pen. The blocking member is expedient than with respect to the second engagement members 28a, 28b formed independent component that only an actuating and has a blocking function without actually To participate in the locking process.

Assuming the first engagement members 26a, 26b are located out of any circumstances even before closing of the container 1 in the locking position, with simultaneous Taking the closed position by the actuators 33a, 33b, it is nevertheless possible to close the container. Due to the spring loading of the actuators 33a, 33b, the first engagement members 26a, 26b with the approaching during the closing process second engagement members 28a, 28b acting on deflected a little in the direction of the release position what they are after passing the second engaging members 28a, 28b again automatically in the locking position snap back. Here, the blocking member 53 then not necessarily required as an admission element, although it still functions as a support member or hold down for the spring means 42 can.

For unlocking the interlocking locking means 16, 17 when the container 1 is closed is an opening mechanism 56 available, the expediently as a component the first locking means 16 is designed and the serves the blockage caused by the blocking member 53 the actuators 33a, 33b and the latter in to switch the open position back, at the same time Unlocking the first engagement members 26a, 26b with the actuators 33a, 33b are coupled in motion.

The opening mechanism 56 cooperates in the embodiment simultaneously with both locking units 25a, 25b, being the one between these locking units 25a, 25b lying area is assigned, so that there is a central Opportunity results. In principle, compared to one also possible design with independent opening mechanisms for each locking unit 25a, 25b the common assignment also has the benefit of a reduction the manufacturing effort and space requirements.

The opening mechanism 56 includes an adjustable one Opener 57, one in the assembled state in the container interior 8 located activation member 58 and one outside of the container interior 8 lying handling member 62, for example in the form of an actuating button. Between the activation member 58 and the handling member 62 there is a fixed connection through the front first Sidewall 5a through (not shown), the can be slotted for this. By grasping the handling member 62 from the outside can thus the opener 57 in the desired Way to be operated.

The activation member 58 is based on the locked State of the locking device 15 on which the blocking member 53 opposite side of the stop part 38 (cf. Fig. 9). The opener 57 is expediently slider-like trained and can by loading the handling member 62 linear in one with the opening and closing direction 32 coinciding activation direction 63 adjusted become. The activation member 58 moves in one referred to as the working level, the level with the pan levels the actuators 33a, 33b and the adjustment levels the first engaging members 26a, 26b coincide or in parallel runs to these.

The activation member 58 is attached to the stop part 38 facing side a deflection surface 64 is provided, the expediently at least partially one with reference to the direction of activation 63 has an oblique course. Becomes the activation link 58 starting from the deactivated one shown in FIG. 9 Position moved towards the stop member 38, arrives the deflection surface 64 in contact with one transverse to the switching direction oriented side loading area 65 of the stop member 38 and directs it relative to the blocking member 53 transverse to the swivel plane of the actuators 33a, 33b. The deflection movement is illustrated by arrow 66.

The deflection distance is such that the deflected stop part 38 entirely or at least largely from the Blocking member 53 is moved out front area.

This deflection movement is guaranteed in that the Connection of the actuators 33a, 33b to the first engagement members 26a, 26b at the points of attack 36 and the Pivot bearing in the area of the pivot bearing 45 with corresponding Degrees of freedom is equipped, in particular by ensuring sufficient movement or Choice of appropriate joints.

For example, the pivot bearing point 45 that defines on the first carrier 18 fixed bearing pin 67 with a Running length, the actuator 33a, 33b Moving in the longitudinal direction of the bearing pin 67 allowed, wherein the hole 68 of the actuating members penetrated by the bearing pin 67 33a, 33b is designed as an elongated hole.

The deflection movement is limited in the exemplary embodiment by a head 70 of the bearing pin 67, which also in the rest can serve to support spring means, not shown, which by loading the actuators 33a, 33b Preload stop part 38 in the undeflected position.

During the deflection process, the stop part is practically 38 and the adjoining lengths of the Actuators 33a, 33b tilted out of that plane, in which they are during the closing process or during the Blockage.

In this deflected position shown in FIG. 13 the stop member 38 is able to move the blocking member 53 laterally to happen. The actuators 33a, 33b can thus unhindered by the blocking member 53 from the closed position be pivoted back into the open position, only the pivoting movement outside of when switching to the Closing position relevant pivot level takes place.

In principle, it would now be possible to provide spring means that after deflecting the stop member 38 an automatic downshift effect in the open position. Because spring means but are susceptible to defects, see the embodiment implemented solution not just a manually activated one Deflection process, but also a manually activated Downshift.

In this context, the opener is on its activation link 58 additionally with one facing the stop part 38 Acting surface 69 provided that after the deflection of the Stop part 38 takes effect. It is found in the embodiment following the deflection surface 64 and runs transverse to the activation direction 63.

Now the opener 57 by actuation on the handling member 62 to one oriented in the direction of the blocking member 53 Initiated opening movement, the stop member 38 is first through the deflection surface 64 into the described deflected Position transferred and then by the following Actuation surface 69 pushed past the blocking member 53. 14 shows the latter state.

Due to the bistable resilient in the embodiment Fixing spring means 42, it is present not necessary, the stop part 38 active into the To shift open position. After the stop member 38 the has passed connection line 55 (dead center) explained above, the remaining distance is covered by the snap effect caused.

Finally, the unlocked one shown in FIGS. 12 and 15 lies State in which the actuators 33a, 33b despite the blocking member being constantly in the blocking position 53 are switched to the open position, which at the same time the release position of the first engagement members 26a, 26b Consequence. The container can now be opened remove the locking means 16, 17 from each other and that Blocking member 53 out of engagement with the first locking means 16 arrives, so that finally until then deflected stop part 38 together with the likewise deflected Actuators 33a, 33b in the undeflected Position can return. To this return movement too suitable spring means, as mentioned above be provided.

The overall sequence of unlocking the locking device results which are shown in the individual process phases. 10 to 12 or 9 and 13 to 15.

There is the possibility, not shown, the mutual Lifting off the locking means 16, 17 during the unlocking process to support, by operating the Opener 57 at the same time a gap-wide opening of the container 1 to evoke. For this purpose, the opener 57 can be equipped with at least one Actuating area to be equipped in the the shift phase subsequent switching phase to the blocking member 53 acts, so that the latter at least partially is lifted out of the first locking means 16.

During the embodiment, a slide-like opener 57, it should be noted that alternatively, for example also solutions with eccentric actuation or push actuation could be realized. The opener can otherwise by suitable spring means in its deactivated position be biased.

16 shows another possible embodiment of the first Locking means 16 emerge, in which several immediately series-connected locking units 25b, 25c realized are. Only the actuator 33b one Locking unit 25b is assigned a stop part 38 here, and the actuation of the downstream further locking unit 25c takes place directly through the upstream first locking unit 25b. This can be done, for example by realizing that the actuator 33c the downstream locking unit 25c on the first engagement member 26b of the upstream locking unit 25b is articulated and by its pivoting movement to your own Swiveling movement is driven, which is then assigned to the first engaging member 26c is transmitted.

With this design, the number of first engagement members can be adapting to different dimensions of the equipment Vary containers very easily.

Deviating from those realized in the embodiment same leverage within the individual locking units can easily be separated from each other if necessary deviating leverage ratios can be selected.

While the locking devices shown in the drawing contain two or more than two locking units, there is of course the possibility of the closure device even with just a single locking unit equip or one container with several at the same time individually operated individual locking units to equip.

The closure device of the embodiment is designed that they attach themselves relatively easily to a container leaves. However, it would be quite possible that Closure device at least partially firmly in a container to integrate, for example, by having the function the first and second carriers 18, 19 directly into a frame or integrated the wall of the container. For example could be required stiffening strips anyway Container form the carrier.

Finally, it should be mentioned that the closure device 15th if necessary in addition to the locking device Locking device 73 may contain, regardless of Blocking member 53 securing the first engagement members 26a, 26b caused against unauthorized unlocking. This, appropriately Locking device based on a combination lock 73 is expediently designed so that it with the opening mechanism 56 cooperates and for example the actuation of the opener 57 blocks.

Claims (24)

1. Locking device for a container (1), for instance for a suitcase or toolbox, with an interlocking device (11) for the releasable interlocking of two container parts (2,3) when the container (1) is closed, comprising first interlocking means (16) for the first container part (2) and second interlocking means (17) for the second container part (3), whereby the first interlocking means (16) incorporate at least one actuating element (33a, 33b) capable of switching between an open position and a closed position and coupled for movement with at least one first follower (26a, 26b) of the first interlocking means (16), which can, in the open position of the actuating element (33a, 33b), adopt a release position in which there is no interlocking engagement with a second follower (28a, 28b) of the second interlocking means (17), and, in the closed position of the actuating element (33a, 33b) adopt an interlocking position with interlocking engagement with the second follower (28a, 28b), characterised in that the second interlocking means (17) incorporate at least one blocking element (53) which, when the interlocking means (16, 17) are joined, projects into the path of a stop element (38) directly formed by the actuating element (33a, 33b) or coupled for movement therewith and blocks the actuating element (33a, 33b) in the closed position, and in that an opening mechanism (56) is provided, by means of which the blocking of the actuating element (33a, 33b) can be cancelled and the actuating element (33a, 33b) can be returned into the open position.
2. Locking device according to claim 1, characterised in that the opening mechanism (56) incorporates an adjustable opening element (57) with a deflection surface (64) designed in particular as a sloping surface, by means of which it is possible to act on the stop element (38), so that it is deflected in relation to the blocking element (53) and can pass at the side of the blocking element (53) to switch the actuating element (33a, 33b) into the open position.
3. Locking device according to claim 2, characterised in that the stop element (38) is preloaded into its non-deflected position by means of springs.
4. Locking device according to claim 2 or 3, characterised in that the adjustable opening element (57) has an acting surface (69) and can, to open the container (1), be induced to perform an opening movement, whereby the stop element (38) is first moved into a deflected position by the deflection surface (64) and then past the blocking element (53) by the acting surface (69) in order to switch the actuating element (33a, 33b) actively into the open position.
5. Locking device according to claim 4, characterised in that the opening element (57) is designed to act on the blocking element (53) in the switch over phase following the deflection phase and at least partially lift it out of the first interlocking means (16).
6. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the at least one blocking element (53) of the second interlocking means (17) projects towards the first interlocking means (16), preferably in the manner of a blade or pin, whereby the first interlocking means (16) are expediently provided with an opening (54) assigned to the relevant blocking element, into which the blocking element (53) can be inserted when the interlocking means are joined.
7. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the at least one first follower (26a, 26b) is pivotably mounted and performs a swivelling movement during the transition between release position and interlocking position.
8. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the at least one first follower (26a, 26b) is hook-shaped, whereby the at least one second follower (28a, 28b) is represented by the edge of an opening (52) of the second interlocking means (17), which is engaged from behind by the hook-shaped first follower (26a, 26b) in the interlocking position.
9. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the first interlocking means (16) have, on the side facing the second interlocking means (17), an end face (23) defined, for instance, by the outer surface of a profile strip, which at least partially covers the interlocking mechanism and behind which the at least one first follower (26a, 26b) is located in the release position, whereby each first follower (26a, 26b) is assigned a recess (47) in the end face (23), through which it can pass to adopt the interlocking position.
10. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that spring means (44) are provided to locate the first follower (26a, 26b) in the release position, expediently by acting on the actuating element (33a, 33b) and holding it in the open position.
11. Locking device according to claim 10, characterised in that the spring means (44) are designed for the bistable location of the actuating element (33a, 33b) in the open position and in the closed position.
12. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the at least one blocking element (53) of the second interlocking means (17) forms an acting element which, when the interlocking means are being joined, acts on the associated stop element (38) of the actuating element (33a, 33b) in the open position and switches it into the closed position.
13. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 12, characterised in that the at least one blocking element (53) and the at least one second follower (28a, 28b) are designed as independent components of the second interlocking means (17).
14. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 13, characterised in that the first interlocking means (16) comprise a plurality of interlocking units (25a, 25b), each of which incorporates at least one actuating element (33a, 33b) and at least one first follower (26a, 26b) acting together therewith, while a common opening mechanism (56) is expediently assigned to them.
15. Locking device according to claim 14, characterised in that several interlocking units are directly connected in series.
16. Locking device according to claim 14 or 15, characterised in that two interlocking units (25a, 25b) are provided next to one another, whereby the opening mechanism (56) is assigned to the area in between and capable of simultaneously acting together with both interlocking units (25a, 25b).
17. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 16, characterised in that the at least one actuating element (33a, 33b) is designed as a pivotably mounted lever, the first lever arm (34) of which acts together with a first follower (26a, 26b), while a stop element (38) is assigned to the second lever arm (35).
18. Locking device according to claim 17 in combination with claim 16, characterised in that coupling means (42) acting simultaneously on both second lever arms (35) extend between the two facing second lever arms (35) of two adjacent interlocking units (25a, 25b) to perform a translatory movement during the synchronised switch-over movement of the actuating elements (33a, 33b).
19. Locking device according to claim 18, characterised in that the coupling means (42) incorporate a stop element (38) simultaneously assigned to both actuating elements (33a, 33b) and capable of acting together with a blocking element (53).
20. Locking device according to claim 18 or 19, characterised in that the coupling means (42) incorporate spring means (44) supported between the second lever arms (35) and thus preloading the actuating elements (33a, 33b) simultaneously towards the open position or the closed position.
21. Locking device according to any of claims 17 to 20, characterised in that the opening mechanism (56) incorporates a slide-like opening element capable of in particular linear adjustment in an operating plane coinciding with or parallel to the pivoting planes of the actuating elements (33a, 33b) in order to act on the stop element (38).
22. Locking device according to any of claims 17 to 20, characterised in that the stop element (38) can be deflected at right angles to the pivoting plane of the actuating elements (33a, 33b) to cancel the blocking action.
23. Locking device according to any of claims 1 to 22, characterised in that at least one locking unit (73), for instance incorporating a combination lock, is provided to secure the at least one first follower (26a, 26b) against unauthorised unlocking, said locking unit expediently acting together with the opening mechanism (56).
24. Container with two container parts (2,3) and a locking device according to any of claims 1 to 23.

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