EP3879638B1 - Connection assembly with quick and secure attachment - Google Patents

Connection assembly with quick and secure attachment Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3879638B1
EP3879638B1 EP21160337.8A EP21160337A EP3879638B1 EP 3879638 B1 EP3879638 B1 EP 3879638B1 EP 21160337 A EP21160337 A EP 21160337A EP 3879638 B1 EP3879638 B1 EP 3879638B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
connector
post
connection assembly
angular
fastening
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP21160337.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3879638A1 (en
Inventor
Erwan GILBERT
Benoît BARTKOWIAK
Stéphane ANDRE
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Axon Cable SA
Original Assignee
Axon Cable SA
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Axon Cable SA filed Critical Axon Cable SA
Publication of EP3879638A1 publication Critical patent/EP3879638A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3879638B1 publication Critical patent/EP3879638B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/629—Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances
    • H01R13/633—Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances for disengagement only
    • H01R13/635—Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances for disengagement only by mechanical pressure, e.g. spring force
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/621—Bolt, set screw or screw clamp
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/627—Snap or like fastening
    • H01R13/6271—Latching means integral with the housing
    • H01R13/6273—Latching means integral with the housing comprising two latching arms
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/629—Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances
    • H01R13/631—Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances for engagement only
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/639—Additional means for holding or locking coupling parts together, after engagement, e.g. separate keylock, retainer strap
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R24/00—Two-part coupling devices, or either of their cooperating parts, characterised by their overall structure
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
    • H01R13/533—Bases, cases made for use in extreme conditions, e.g. high temperature, radiation, vibration, corrosive environment, pressure
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/621—Bolt, set screw or screw clamp
    • H01R13/6215—Bolt, set screw or screw clamp using one or more bolts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/627—Snap or like fastening
    • H01R13/6275—Latching arms not integral with the housing

Definitions

  • connection assembly here designates an assembly comprising a first connector and a second connector which must be fixed to each other. These connectors are normally provided for connecting together cables or at least communication circuits, in order to allow the exchange of information between first circuits linked to the first connector and second circuits linked to the second connector.
  • connection assemblies which must be miniaturized, the space available for connecting and disconnecting the connectors being very small. It therefore concerns in particular the connection assemblies provided to comply with the MIL-DTL-32139 standard (format usually called 'nano-D').
  • connection assemblies of known type comprise a first connector and a second connector, which are fixed to each other in the fixing position by means of screws.
  • the screws ensure a reliable and proven fixing; however, the connection and disconnection operations are long, a tightening operation to a predetermined torque being necessary, and can be difficult if there is only very little space available for screwing and unscrewing the screws.
  • connection assemblies whose connectors are fixed to each other in the fixing position by means of fixing hooks. These hooks are attached to the second connector using counterbores, machined on the sides of the latter.
  • This method of fixing has satisfactory reliability; however, the use of square brackets can cause problems if the space available for connection and disconnection operations is very small.
  • the documents US 2013/034986 A1 and NL 1022227 C2 disclose connection assemblies according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • connection assemblies capable of ensuring a connection in a reliable manner, but whose connectors can be connected and disconnected simply and quickly, and in a very small volume.
  • this connection assembly comprises a first connector and a second connector.
  • the first connector includes a post having an axis.
  • a body of the second connector comprises a fixing passage for the column, and is arranged to allow the column to enter said fixing passage by moving forwards in a fixing direction, until reaching a fixing position .
  • the first connector and the second connector are configured such that in the fixing position, the column is prevented by a stop device from moving in a direction of disassembly, which is a direction opposite to the direction of fixing.
  • the first connector and the second connector are configured such that an external action applied only to the column allows the column to pass from the fixing position to a released position, in which the column is disengaged from the abutment device and can move in translation in the direction of disassembly.
  • the column In the fixing position, the column is in a predetermined angular range.
  • the connection assembly further comprises angular return means, comprising for example a spring, configured to return the column in said predetermined angular range relative to the axis of the column, when the column is fixed to a body of the first connector before it is attached to the second connector.
  • the term 'column' designates any part (or set of parts) consisting mainly of an elongated part capable of being placed in a bore of corresponding shape.
  • 'direction' means a direction as defined by a straight line or a set of parallel straight lines.
  • a direction can possibly have a meaning, that is to say be oriented, depending on the context.
  • the post in the fixing position, passes through a guide passage arranged in a body of the first connector, and its end is placed in the fixing passage of the second body. Consequently, in the fixing position, the column ensures alignment of the body of the first connector relative to the body of the second connector. However, more generally the alignment of the body of the first connector with the body of the second connector can be ensured by any means.
  • connection assembly presented above can naturally comprise more than one post for fixing the two connectors to each other.
  • Each column can have all or part of the characteristics and operation indicated for the column presented here.
  • one or more of the pins may be only axial guide pins, provided to contribute to maintaining the alignment of the first connector with the second connector in the fixing position, but which have no function of maintaining in position axial of the first connector vis-à-vis the second connector.
  • connection assembly is preferably configured so that the connection of the column is done automatically when the positioning of the column (by a movement in translation) in the fixing passage. This means that, during this movement, the abutment device preventing the column from moving in the opposite direction, following the dismantling direction, is put in place without external action and performs its retaining function.
  • connection assembly can have all or part of the following additional characteristics:
  • the external action comprises (and advantageously may comprise only) the application of a torque, allowing when the pin is in the fixing position to rotate it around its axis, and thus to move it from an angular position of attachment to a released angular position different from the angular position of attachment.
  • the column In this released angular position, the column is in the released position.
  • the column may or may not occupy the same axial position, in the fixing position and in the released position.
  • one end of the column has a circumferential surface; in a first angular sector, the circumferential surface has a recessed surface delimited at the front in the fixing direction by a first shoulder, the recessed surface being located radially set back with respect to the first shoulder; the abutment device comprises a retaining tongue secured axially to the second connector; and the first and the second connector are configured such that when the column is in the fixing position, the retaining tab is disposed radially in front of the recessed surface, and is held in front of the first shoulder, in a view along the direction of attachment.
  • connection assembly can thus comprise holding means configured to, when the column is in the fixing position, hold the retaining tab opposite the first shoulder in the direction of fixing (that is to say that, in seen along the direction of attachment, the first shoulder is aligned with the retaining tab; while also being located axially in front of the latter).
  • the further recessed surface is delimited at the rear along the fixing direction by a second shoulder.
  • the recessed surface is located radially recessed relative to the second shoulder.
  • the external action in this embodiment, can then comprise an axial thrust which moves the pin in the fixing direction.
  • the first and the second connector are configured such that, when under the effect of this axial thrust, the column moves in the fixing direction, the second shoulder moves until it is axially at the level of the retaining tab , pushing the retaining tab radially outwards.
  • the circumferential surface in a second angular sector, has a disassembly surface, having no shoulder in the fixing direction; and the first and second connectors are configured such that when the post is in the released position, the retaining tab is disposed radially (i.e., in view in a radial direction) in front of the surface of disassembly.
  • the retaining tab, or retaining claw is a part or set of parts of any shape.
  • the second connector may optionally comprise not a single tab, but a plurality of retaining tabs, each having all or part of the characteristics indicated above.
  • connection assembly comprises tab return means, in particular elastic return means, configured to, in the absence of the post, hold the retaining tab in the fixing passage , at the same radial position as the shoulder of the column (in view along the fixing direction).
  • tab return means in particular elastic return means, configured to, in the absence of the post, hold the retaining tab in the fixing passage , at the same radial position as the shoulder of the column (in view along the fixing direction).
  • connection assembly is preferably configured so that the connection of the column is done simply by moving the column (in translation) in the fixing passage. During this movement, the retaining tongue itself comes into engagement against the shoulder of the column, thus ensuring the axial fixing of the latter.
  • connection assembly is configured in such a way as to allow movement of the column from a disassembled position in which the column is at a distance from the second connector, to the fixing position.
  • the retaining tab (which is therefore, in the absence of the pin, disposed in the fixing passage due to the tab return means) is pushed radially outwards by the shoulder when fitting the baluster in the attachment passage, then resets radially inward opposite the recessed surface when the shoulder has moved forward past the retaining tab.
  • the tab return means consist of the retaining piece, the retaining tab being integrally formed with the retainer.
  • the first connector comprises an angular abutment
  • the column comprises an angular abutment, said angular abutments being configured to come into contact when the angular return means return the column in said predetermined angular range .
  • the column is then placed in the angular fixing position, that is to say the angular position which allows that, when connecting the first connector to the second connector, the recessed surface comes to be placed directly radially opposite the tab restraint.
  • the angular return means may for example comprise a torsion spring, for example helical.
  • the first and the second connector are configured so that the post can pass from the released position to a disengaged position, in which the post is placed further back than in the fixing position, and in which the second connector allows the post to come out of its fixing passage, whatever the angular position of the post.
  • the first connector comprises axial return means such as a spring configured, when the column is in the released position, to move the column in the dismantling direction to a position disengaged in which the post relative to a body of the first connector, is placed behind its axial position in the fixing position, and in which the second connector allows the post to come out of its fixing passage, whatever the angular position of the column.
  • axial return means such as a spring configured, when the column is in the released position, to move the column in the dismantling direction to a position disengaged in which the post relative to a body of the first connector, is placed behind its axial position in the fixing position, and in which the second connector allows the post to come out of its fixing passage, whatever the angular position of the column.
  • said angular return means and said axial return means consist mainly of the same helical spring, configured to act in torsion and in compression.
  • This spring can in particular be arranged around the column.
  • the first connector comprises an axial stop device, making it possible to limit an axial displacement of the column in the dismantling direction with respect to the first body when the column is fixed to a body of the first connector before it is attached to the second connector.
  • the axial stop device comprises a stop ring arranged around the column, and a shoulder formed on an inner surface of the guide passage, the stop ring coming into abutment against the shoulder when the column moves in the dismantling direction.
  • the stop ring can for example be a split ring, arranged in a circumferential groove of the column.
  • connection assembly comprises spacer means configured to elastically space the first connector relative to the second connector in the fixing direction, when the first connector and the second connector are connected to one another. These spacer means make it possible to position the retaining tab in abutment against the first shoulder when the pin is in the fixing position.
  • spacer means may in particular comprise at least one spacer blade, able to be placed between the first connector and the second connector.
  • the external action comprises an axial thrust moving the column in the fixing direction.
  • the column can operate in particular according to the 'push-latch' principle: to disconnect the column from the second connector, it is first necessary to push it slightly in the fixing direction, to release it from the second connector; it is then possible to disengage it from the second connector, as well as the whole of the first connector, by moving it in translation in the direction of disassembly (that is to say, the direction opposite to the direction of attachment).
  • the column passes from the fixing position to the released position simply by an action on the column itself.
  • This column passing through the second connector, this action can be done substantially along the axis of the column, and not on the sides of the connectors. Thanks to this, the disconnection of the column can be done in a reduced volume.
  • connection assembly 1 constituting an example of a first embodiment of the present disclosure will now be presented in relation to the figures 1 to 14 .
  • the connection assembly 1 comprises a first connector 100 and a second connector 200. These connectors are configured to allow the connection of conductors designed for the communication of telecommunication signals or for transmitting electric current.
  • Each of the connectors 100 and 200 can be fixed to a fixed support, in particular an electronic card such as a PCB, and/or be fixed to a telecommunications cable comprising a certain number of conductors allowing the transport of electrical signals and/or current(s).
  • the connector 100 is configured to be connected to the connector 200 by simply causing it to move along a direction of fixing X+ (the direction of dismantling X- being the opposite direction), until it reaches a final position, called position fixing (the connector 200 remaining fixed).
  • the directed side of the side indicated by the fixing direction X+ is called 'front side', while the opposite side is called 'rear side'.
  • the connector 100 comprises a body 110 and two columns 120 (the connector 100 could comprise only one column, or it could comprise 3, 4, 5 or more). Although the posts can be formed integrally with the body 110, in this embodiment they are separate parts thereof.
  • a post 120 has a head 122 and a stem 124, which are both substantially cylindrical and coaxial.
  • the post is fixed to the body 110 of the first connector 100 by passing the post 120 through a guide passage 112 provided in the body 110.
  • the post 120 is configured to be able to be introduced into the corresponding passage 112 along the fixing direction X+. It cannot, however, exceed a position of maximum displacement, because the head 122 cannot enter the passage 112 in its central section 114, which is of smaller diameter than that of the head 122.
  • a stop ring 130 is then fixed on the column 120, by clipping the latter (made for this purpose in a suitable elastic material) in a circumferential groove 128 of the column.
  • the ring 130 which is a split ring, is introduced on the column from the front end 125 thereof.
  • the guide passage 112 includes a circumferential stop 116 at the level of which, in the dismantling direction, its inside diameter changes from a value slightly greater than the outside diameter of the ring 130 to a value less than this diameter.
  • the stop 116 prevents the movement of the pin 120 in the direction of dismantling beyond a certain position, in which the stop ring 130 is in abutment against the stop 116.
  • Connector 200 includes a body 210 and a retainer 220.
  • the retainer 220 has a retainer tab 222.
  • a fixing passage 212 is formed for each post 120.
  • Each fixing passage 212 of the body 210 is arranged so as to be able to be placed opposite a guide passage 112 of the body 110, and has a diameter interior substantially equal (to the nearest clearance) to the outside diameter of the rod 124. Consequently, when the pin 120 is in the fixing position, and a front part of the pin 120 is engaged in the fixing passage 212, the passages guide 112 and fixing 212 are kept coaxial and facing each other by the column.
  • Recessed surface 136 between first and second shoulders 138 and 139, forms a notch 137 in circumferential surface 132.
  • the dismantling surface 134 in this embodiment, is a surface having a transverse section (in a plane perpendicular to the axis X) that is substantially constant regardless of the position along the fixing direction X+, from the axial position of the tab 222 (in the fixing position of the column) to the tip of the column.
  • this transverse section forms an arc of a circle of radius R centered on the X axis.
  • the dismantling surface 134 has no shoulder, no protrusion liable to prevent the tongue 222 from moving as far as the tip. of the column 120 by sliding on the surface 134.
  • the recessed surface 136 which is delimited at the front by the first shoulder 138, is located radially set back with respect to this shoulder, that is to say it is arranged radially in a range of distances d from the axis X less than the radius R of the shoulder 138.
  • the shoulder 138 has a cylindrical shape with the same radius R as the dismantling surface 134. Consequently, the recessed surface 136 forms a recessed surface not only with respect to the shoulder 138 but also by relative to the dismantling surface 134.
  • the second connector is further equipped with retainer 220.
  • retainer 220 may be integrally formed with body 210 (as shown in Fig.17 ), in the proposed embodiment it is a separate part, rigidly fixed to the body 210.
  • the part 220 is a part formed from a part of folded and cut metal strip, and which has a wide range of elastic deformation.
  • the body 210 and the part 220 are configured in such a way as to allow the part 220 to be rigidly fixed to the body 210. This fixing can be ensured by any suitable means.
  • the tongue 222 of the part 220 is inclined with respect to the direction of attachment, so that it is all the closer to the axis X as one moves forwards along the direction of attachment X+ .
  • the tongue 222 is arranged opposite the fixing surface 136.
  • the end of the tongue then bears both on this surface 136, and on shoulder 138.
  • the retaining tongue 222 in this position, is maintained at the same radial position (is at the same distance from the axis X) as the shoulder 138, and thus prevents the output of the pin 120 from the passage 212.
  • the first connector 100 is further equipped with a spring 140.
  • This spring 140 is a spring acting both in torsion and in compression, and is an example of angular return means and axial return means within the meaning of the present disclosure.
  • the spring 140 is configured to, when the column 120 is mounted in the passages 112 and 212, rotate the column 120 around its axis and thus return it to a certain position or at least an angular range. This action serves to place the pin 120 in the angular position known as the 'angular fixing position', in which, if the pin 120 is engaged in the passages 112 and 212, the tongue 222 will come to rest on the recessed surface 136: it is the angular position represented in particular on the Fig.3 and 4 . As will be explained later, the column 120 is placed in the angular fixing position not only thanks to the spring 140, but thanks to the action of the spring 140 combined with the presence of angular stops 142 and 144.
  • Fig.5 represents an angular position called 'released angular position' (or 'angular dismantling position'), in which the tongue 222 is not resting on the fixing surface 136, but on the contrary is resting on the dismantling surface 134.
  • the column When connecting the first connector 100 to the second connector 200, the column is engaged in the passages 112 and 212. During this movement, to allow the tongue 222 to be put in place against the recessed surface 136, column is in an angular position (the angular fixing position) which corresponds to the angular position of the retaining tab.
  • the body 110 comprises a stop 142, and the head 122 of the column comprises a corresponding stop 144. These stops are configured so as to block in rotation (relative to the axis of the guide passage) the column 120 in the desired angular position.
  • the body 110 and the head 122 of the column also comprise stops 146,148 which prevent the column from being rotated by an excessive angle in the opposite direction of rotation.
  • the column head 122 has a hexagonal bore 150 thanks to which it can be rotated using an Allen key (any other shape of head making it possible to drive the column in rotation about its axis would of course be possible).
  • the spring 140 acts not only in torsion to maintain the column 120 in the angular position desired for its attachment, but also in compression.
  • the standoff head is axially at the end of the body 110, and does not protrude from the body. 110 in the direction of disassembly (that is to say, does not extend on the side of the direction of disassembly beyond the end plane P of the body 110).
  • the spring 140 holds the column in the “ready to connect” position, since it then holds each of the columns in the angular fixing position.
  • This "ready to connect” position allows a quick and secure locking of the connection, and in some cases blind.
  • the end of the columns is conical to ensure the pre-guiding of the columns.
  • the retainer plays a role of placing the first connector 100 in a predetermined relative position with respect to the second connector 200.
  • the connectors 100 and 200 are configured such that in the fixing position, these slats are sandwiched between the facing walls of the body 110 and the body 210. Consequently, due to their elasticity, the slats tend to separate from each other, in the direction of assembly, the two bodies 110.210.
  • each post 120 is placed in one of the passages 112 of the body 110 of the first connector and equipped with its stop ring 130.
  • the connector 100 is positioned opposite the connector 200 so that the axes of the columns 120 coincide with the axes of the fixing passages 212 in which they must be placed. (As before, the following description refers to a single column 120, but the comments made for this column are applicable to all the columns).
  • the connector 100 is approached to the connector 200 by moving it along the fixing direction X+.
  • the column 120 is placed automatically in the angular fixing position, thanks to the return torque of the spring 140 and the angular stops 142.144.
  • the end 125 of the column engages in the fixing passage 212.
  • the tongue 222 which is at this stage ( Fig.6 ) by elasticity recalled in position in the fixing passage opposite the column 120 (along the axis X) is pushed radially outwards by the end 125 of the column, which allows the column to continue its movement forward ( Fig.7 ).
  • the first connector is then stopped moving forwards. At this time, the column heads 122 still protrude from the rear of the box 110.
  • the elastic strips 224 are at this time in compression between the two connectors 100 and 200, and tend to separate the body 110 from the body 210. Under the effect of this pressure, the column 120 is biased rearwards, which maintains the end of the tongue 222 resting firmly against the shoulder 138.
  • the connectors are initially in the fixing position ( Fig.8 ).
  • the column 120 is rotated around its X axis using an Allen key ( Figs.9,10 ). During this movement, the column moves from the angular fixing position ( Fig.4 ) to the released angular position ( Fig.5 ). The end of the tongue 222 is gradually pushed back radially by the recessed surface 136 and comes into contact with the disassembly surface 134. In the latter position, the column 120 is no longer prevented from moving in the dismantling direction by the shoulder 138, and the first connector 100 can be moved rearward.
  • means for locking the column in rotation, once it has been placed in the released angular position may be provided.
  • the disassembly surface 134 and the retaining tab can be configured such that, once the pillar is placed in the released position (and can then move in the direction of disassembly), the pillar is required to remain in a fixed angular position with respect to its axis.
  • This locking in rotation which must not prevent the column from sliding relative to the second connector, can be achieved in particular thanks to a form of cooperation between the retaining tab and the dismantling surface.
  • the disassembly surface may include a guide groove such as the groove 135 shown on the Fig. 16 .
  • the embodiment shown in this figure is identical to the first embodiment, except that the guide groove 135 is provided in the disassembly surface 134.
  • step S120 When disconnecting the connector 100, in step S120) the column 120 is rotated around its axis.
  • the tongue 222 is found (radially) in front of the dismantling surface 134. Consequently, the tongue 222 is placed at the bottom of the groove 135, and therefore prevents the column 120 from rotating around its axis, and this despite the return torque exerted by the spring 140. It follows that during step S130, the pin can be extracted from the passage 212 without risk that the tongue 222 does not come to interrupt this movement by locking against the first shoulder 138 .
  • step S110 the column 120 is moved slightly in the fixing direction.
  • This step is carried out if the first connector is arranged in such a way as to allow the column to move forward in the fixing direction while the connectors are in the fixing position, as in the embodiment represented by the Fig. 18 .
  • connector 100 is configured such that post 120 can move in the direction of attachment at step 110, which is the first step in the disconnect procedure. This movement allows the shoulder 139 to come push the tab 222 and cause it to come out of the notch 137. In step S120, the rotation of the column around its axis is thus facilitated.
  • FIG. 15 A second embodiment will now be presented in relation to the figure 15 .
  • This embodiment is identical to the first embodiment, except for the following point.
  • the same reference signs are used for the first and the second embodiment.
  • the column 120 is arranged as in the first embodiment except for its end. Consequently, the fixing passage 212 formed in the body 210 has a shape adapted for the specific shape that the pillar 120 has in this embodiment.
  • the dismantling surface 134 and the recessed surface 136 have the same radius R2, which is less than the radius R of the first shoulder 138.
  • connection and disconnection operations of the two connectors 100,200 to each other are the same in this embodiment as in the first embodiment.
  • the recessed surface 136 does not have to push the tab 222 radially, because the disassembly surface 134 and the recessed surface 136 are both surfaces of the same radius R2.

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Description

Domaine TechniqueTechnical area

La présente divulgation concerne le domaine des ensembles de connexion. Un ensemble de connexion désigne ici un ensemble comprenant un premier connecteur et un deuxième connecteur qui doivent être fixés l'un à l'autre. Ces connecteurs sont normalement prévus pour connecter ensemble des câbles ou du moins des circuits de communication, afin de permettre l'échange d'informations entre de premiers circuits liés au premier connecteur et de deuxièmes circuits liés au deuxième connecteur.This disclosure relates to the field of connection sets. A connection assembly here designates an assembly comprising a first connector and a second connector which must be fixed to each other. These connectors are normally provided for connecting together cables or at least communication circuits, in order to allow the exchange of information between first circuits linked to the first connector and second circuits linked to the second connector.

La présente divulgation concerne plus précisément les ensembles de connexion qui doivent être miniaturisés, l'espace disponible pour connecter et déconnecter les connecteurs étant très faible. Elle concerne donc notamment les ensembles de connexion prévus pour respecter la norme MIL-DTL-32139 (format appelé usuellement 'nano-D').The present disclosure relates more specifically to connection assemblies which must be miniaturized, the space available for connecting and disconnecting the connectors being very small. It therefore concerns in particular the connection assemblies provided to comply with the MIL-DTL-32139 standard (format usually called 'nano-D').

Technique antérieurePrior technique

Pour répondre aux contraintes indiquées ci-dessus, des ensembles de connexion de type connu comportent un premier connecteur et un deuxième connecteur, qui sont fixés l'un à l'autre en position de fixation au moyen de vis. Les vis assurent une fixation fiable et éprouvée ; cependant, les opérations de connexion et de déconnexion sont longues, une opération de serrage à un couple prédéterminé étant nécessaire, et peuvent être difficiles si l'on ne dispose que de très peu de place pour le vissage et le dévissage des vis.To meet the constraints indicated above, connection assemblies of known type comprise a first connector and a second connector, which are fixed to each other in the fixing position by means of screws. The screws ensure a reliable and proven fixing; however, the connection and disconnection operations are long, a tightening operation to a predetermined torque being necessary, and can be difficult if there is only very little space available for screwing and unscrewing the screws.

Une alternative connue proposée par le brevet US8449314 consiste en des ensembles de connexion dont les connecteurs sont fixés l'un à l'autre en position de fixation grâce à des crochets de fixation. Ces crochets sont fixés au deuxième connecteur grâce à des lamages, usinés sur les côtés de celui-ci. Ce mode de fixation présente une fiabilité satisfaisante ; mais cependant l'utilisation de crochets peut poser problème si l'espace disponible pour les opérations de connexion et de déconnexion est très faible. Les documents US 2013/034986 A1 et NL 1022227 C2 divulguent des ensembles de connexion selon le préambule de la revendication 1.A known alternative proposed by the patent US8449314 consists of connection assemblies whose connectors are fixed to each other in the fixing position by means of fixing hooks. These hooks are attached to the second connector using counterbores, machined on the sides of the latter. This method of fixing has satisfactory reliability; however, the use of square brackets can cause problems if the space available for connection and disconnection operations is very small. The documents US 2013/034986 A1 and NL 1022227 C2 disclose connection assemblies according to the preamble of claim 1.

Il existe donc un besoin pour des ensembles de connexion aptes à assurer une connexion de manière fiable, mais dont les connecteurs peuvent être connectés et déconnectés de manière simple et rapide, et dans un très faible volume.There is therefore a need for connection assemblies capable of ensuring a connection in a reliable manner, but whose connectors can be connected and disconnected simply and quickly, and in a very small volume.

Exposé de l'inventionDisclosure of Invention

Pour répondre à ce besoin, l'ensemble de connexion suivant est proposé.To meet this need, the following connection set is offered.

Selon un premier aspect, cet ensemble de connexion comporte un premier connecteur et un deuxième connecteur. Le premier connecteur comprend une colonnette présentant un axe. Un corps du deuxième connecteur comprend un passage de fixation pour la colonnette, et est agencé pour permettre à la colonnette de pénétrer dans ledit passage de fixation en se déplaçant vers l'avant suivant une direction de fixation, jusqu'à atteindre une position de fixation. Le premier connecteur et le deuxième connecteur sont configurés de telle sorte qu'en position de fixation, la colonnette est empêchée par un dispositif de butée de se déplacer dans une direction de démontage, qui est une direction opposée à la direction de fixation. Le premier connecteur et le deuxième connecteur sont configurés de telle sorte qu'une action extérieure appliquée uniquement à la colonnette permet de faire passer la colonnette de la position de fixation à une position libérée, dans laquelle la colonnette est dégagée du dispositif de butée et peut se déplacer en translation dans la direction de démontage. En position de fixation, la colonnette se trouve dans une plage angulaire prédéterminée. L'ensemble de connexion comporte en outre des moyens de rappel angulaire, comprenant par exemple un ressort, configurés pour rappeler la colonnette dans ladite plage angulaire prédéterminée par rapport à l'axe de la colonnette, lorsque la colonnette est fixée à un corps du premier connecteur avant que celui-ci ne soit fixé au deuxième connecteur.According to a first aspect, this connection assembly comprises a first connector and a second connector. The first connector includes a post having an axis. A body of the second connector comprises a fixing passage for the column, and is arranged to allow the column to enter said fixing passage by moving forwards in a fixing direction, until reaching a fixing position . The first connector and the second connector are configured such that in the fixing position, the column is prevented by a stop device from moving in a direction of disassembly, which is a direction opposite to the direction of fixing. The first connector and the second connector are configured such that an external action applied only to the column allows the column to pass from the fixing position to a released position, in which the column is disengaged from the abutment device and can move in translation in the direction of disassembly. In the fixing position, the column is in a predetermined angular range. The connection assembly further comprises angular return means, comprising for example a spring, configured to return the column in said predetermined angular range relative to the axis of the column, when the column is fixed to a body of the first connector before it is attached to the second connector.

Dans le présent document, le terme 'colonnette' désigne toute pièce (ou ensemble de pièces) constitué principalement par une partie allongée susceptible d'être placée dans un alésage de forme correspondante.In this document, the term 'column' designates any part (or set of parts) consisting mainly of an elongated part capable of being placed in a bore of corresponding shape.

Dans le présent document, le terme 'direction' signifie une direction telle que définie par une droite ou un ensemble de droites parallèles. Une direction peut éventuellement avoir un sens, c'est-à-dire être orientée, en fonction du contexte.In this document, the term 'direction' means a direction as defined by a straight line or a set of parallel straight lines. A direction can possibly have a meaning, that is to say be oriented, depending on the context.

En général, en position de fixation, la colonnette passe dans un passage de guidage agencé dans un corps du premier connecteur, et son extrémité est placée dans le passage de fixation du deuxième corps. Par conséquent, en position de fixation, la colonnette assure un alignement du corps du premier connecteur par rapport au corps du deuxième connecteur. Cependant, plus généralement l'alignement du corps du premier connecteur avec le corps du deuxième connecteur peut être assuré par tout moyen.In general, in the fixing position, the post passes through a guide passage arranged in a body of the first connector, and its end is placed in the fixing passage of the second body. Consequently, in the fixing position, the column ensures alignment of the body of the first connector relative to the body of the second connector. However, more generally the alignment of the body of the first connector with the body of the second connector can be ensured by any means.

L'ensemble de connexion présenté ci-dessus peut naturellement comporter plus d'une colonnette pour la fixation des deux connecteurs l'un à l'autre. Chaque colonnette peut présenter tout ou partie des caractéristiques et du fonctionnement indiqués pour la colonnette présentée ici. Par exemple, une ou plusieurs des colonnettes peuvent être seulement des colonnettes de guidage axial, prévues pour contribuer au maintien de l'alignement du premier connecteur avec le deuxième connecteur en position de fixation, mais qui n'ont pas de fonction de maintien en position axiale du premier connecteur vis-à-vis du deuxième connecteur.The connection assembly presented above can naturally comprise more than one post for fixing the two connectors to each other. Each column can have all or part of the characteristics and operation indicated for the column presented here. For example, one or more of the pins may be only axial guide pins, provided to contribute to maintaining the alignment of the first connector with the second connector in the fixing position, but which have no function of maintaining in position axial of the first connector vis-à-vis the second connector.

L'ensemble de connexion est configuré de préférence pour que la connexion de la colonnette se fasse automatiquement lors de la mise en place de la colonnette (par un déplacement en translation) dans le passage de fixation. Cela signifie que, au cours de ce déplacement, le dispositif de butée empêchant la colonnette de se déplacer en sens inverse, suivant la direction de démontage, se mette en place sans action extérieure et assure sa fonction de retenue.The connection assembly is preferably configured so that the connection of the column is done automatically when the positioning of the column (by a movement in translation) in the fixing passage. This means that, during this movement, the abutment device preventing the column from moving in the opposite direction, following the dismantling direction, is put in place without external action and performs its retaining function.

Dans différents modes de réalisation (qui peuvent être combinés les uns aux autres sous réserve de compatibilité technique), l'ensemble de connexion peut présenter tout ou partie des caractéristiques additionnelles suivantes :
Selon un deuxième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, l'action extérieure comporte (et avantageusement, peut comporter uniquement) l'application d'un couple, permettant lorsque la colonnette est en position de fixation de faire tourner celle-ci autour de son axe, et ainsi de faire passer celle-ci d'une position angulaire de fixation jusqu'à une position angulaire libérée différente de la position angulaire de fixation. Dans cette position angulaire libérée, la colonnette est en position libérée. Dans ce mode de réalisation, la colonnette peut occuper ou non la même position axiale, en position de fixation et en position libérée.In different embodiments (which can be combined with each other subject to technical compatibility), the connection assembly can have all or part of the following additional characteristics:
According to a second aspect, in certain embodiments, the external action comprises (and advantageously may comprise only) the application of a torque, allowing when the pin is in the fixing position to rotate it around its axis, and thus to move it from an angular position of attachment to a released angular position different from the angular position of attachment. In this released angular position, the column is in the released position. In this embodiment, the column may or may not occupy the same axial position, in the fixing position and in the released position.

Selon un troisième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, une extrémité de la colonnette présente une surface circonférentielle ; dans un premier secteur angulaire, la surface circonférentielle présente une surface en retrait délimitée à l'avant suivant la direction de fixation par un premier épaulement, la surface en retrait étant située radialement en retrait par rapport au premier épaulement ; le dispositif de butée comporte une languette de retenue solidaire axialement du deuxième connecteur ; et le premier et le deuxième connecteur sont configurés de telle sorte que lorsque la colonnette est en position de fixation, la languette de retenue est disposée radialement en face de la surface en retrait, et est maintenue en face du premier épaulement, dans une vue suivant la direction de fixation.According to a third aspect, in certain embodiments, one end of the column has a circumferential surface; in a first angular sector, the circumferential surface has a recessed surface delimited at the front in the fixing direction by a first shoulder, the recessed surface being located radially set back with respect to the first shoulder; the abutment device comprises a retaining tongue secured axially to the second connector; and the first and the second connector are configured such that when the column is in the fixing position, the retaining tab is disposed radially in front of the recessed surface, and is held in front of the first shoulder, in a view along the direction of attachment.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, lorsque la colonnette est en position de fixation, du fait que la languette de retenue est maintenue en face du premier épaulement (en vue suivant la direction de fixation), tout mouvement du premier épaulement dans la direction de démontage est bloqué par la languette de retenue. Par conséquent, dans cette situation la colonnette ne peut pas se déplacer dans la direction de démontage.In this embodiment, when the pin is in the fixing position, because the retaining tab is held opposite the first shoulder (in view along the fixing direction), any movement of the first shoulder in the direction of disassembly is blocked by the retaining tab. Therefore, in this situation the pillar cannot move in the direction of disassembly.

L'ensemble de connexion peut ainsi comprendre des moyens de maintien configurés pour, lorsque la colonnette est en position de fixation, maintenir la languette de retenue en face du premier épaulement suivant la direction de fixation (c'est-à-dire que, en vue suivant la direction de fixation, le premier épaulement est aligné avec la languette de retenue ; tout en étant par ailleurs situé axialement à l'avant de celle-ci).The connection assembly can thus comprise holding means configured to, when the column is in the fixing position, hold the retaining tab opposite the first shoulder in the direction of fixing (that is to say that, in seen along the direction of attachment, the first shoulder is aligned with the retaining tab; while also being located axially in front of the latter).

Dans une variante de ce mode de réalisation, la surface en retrait de plus est délimitée à l'arrière suivant la direction de fixation par un deuxième épaulement. La surface en retrait est située radialement en retrait par rapport au deuxième épaulement. L'action extérieure, dans ce mode de réalisation, peut comporter alors une poussée axiale qui déplace la colonnette dans la direction de fixation. Le premier et le deuxième connecteur sont configurés de telle sorte que, lorsque sous l'effet de cette poussée axiale, la colonnette se déplace dans la direction de fixation, le deuxième épaulement se déplace jusqu'à être axialement au niveau de la languette de retenue, repoussant radialement la languette de retenue vers l'extérieur.In a variant of this embodiment, the further recessed surface is delimited at the rear along the fixing direction by a second shoulder. The recessed surface is located radially recessed relative to the second shoulder. The external action, in this embodiment, can then comprise an axial thrust which moves the pin in the fixing direction. The first and the second connector are configured such that, when under the effect of this axial thrust, the column moves in the fixing direction, the second shoulder moves until it is axially at the level of the retaining tab , pushing the retaining tab radially outwards.

Selon un quatrième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, dans un deuxième secteur angulaire, la surface circonférentielle présente une surface de démontage, ne présentant pas d'épaulement dans la direction de fixation ; et le premier et le deuxième connecteur sont configurés de telle sorte que lorsque la colonnette est en position libérée, la languette de retenue est disposée radialement (c'est-à-dire, en vue suivant une direction radiale) en face de la surface de démontage.According to a fourth aspect, in certain embodiments, in a second angular sector, the circumferential surface has a disassembly surface, having no shoulder in the fixing direction; and the first and second connectors are configured such that when the post is in the released position, the retaining tab is disposed radially (i.e., in view in a radial direction) in front of the surface of disassembly.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, le fait que « la surface de démontage ne présente pas d'épaulement dans la direction de fixation » signifie que la surface de démontage est une surface qui ne présente pas de saillie, de marche, ou tout autre relief, susceptible de bloquer une languette de retenue se déplaçant sur la surface de démontage, en restant en contact avec celle-ci, de la position de fixation jusqu'à ce que la colonnette soit entièrement sortie du passage de fixation.In this embodiment, the fact that "the disassembly surface does not have a shoulder in the fixing direction" means that the disassembly surface is a surface which does not have any protrusion, step, or any other relief, capable of blocking a retaining tab moving on the disassembly surface, remaining in contact with the latter, from the fixing position until the column is completely out of the fixing passage.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, en position libérée, comme la languette de retenue est disposée radialement en face de la surface de démontage, elle n'est pas bloquée par un épaulement vis-à-vis d'un déplacement suivant la direction de démontage et peut donc se déplacer dans la direction de démontage, ce qui permet donc de déplacer la colonnette dans la direction de démontage et donc de déconnecter les deux connecteurs l'un de l'autre.In this embodiment, in the released position, as the retaining tab is arranged radially opposite the disassembly surface, it is not blocked by a shoulder against movement in the direction of disassembly and can therefore move in the direction of disassembly, which therefore makes it possible to move the column in the direction of disassembly and therefore to disconnect the two connectors from each other.

La languette de retenue, ou griffe de retenue, est une pièce ou un ensemble de pièces de forme quelconque. Par ailleurs, le deuxième connecteur peut éventuellement comporter non pas une seule languette, mais une pluralité de languettes de retenue, ayant chacune tout ou partie des caractéristiques indiquées précédemment.The retaining tab, or retaining claw, is a part or set of parts of any shape. Furthermore, the second connector may optionally comprise not a single tab, but a plurality of retaining tabs, each having all or part of the characteristics indicated above.

Selon un cinquième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, la languette de retenue est formée intégralement avec le corps du deuxième connecteur, ou peut être une portion d'une pièce de retenue fixée au corps du deuxième connecteur, ladite pièce de retenue étant de préférence une portion de feuillard.According to a fifth aspect, in certain embodiments, the retaining tab is formed integrally with the body of the second connector, or can be a portion of a retaining piece fixed to the body of the second connector, said retaining piece preferably being a portion of strip.

Selon un sixième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, l'ensemble de connexion comprend des moyens de rappel de languette, notamment de rappel élastique, configurés pour, en l'absence de la colonnette, maintenir la languette de retenue dans le passage de fixation, à une même position radiale que l'épaulement de la colonnette (en vue suivant la direction de fixation). Ainsi, lorsque la languette est placée dans cette position radiale et que la colonnette est en position de fixation, elle bloque le déplacement axial du premier épaulement de la colonnette, et empêche ainsi de faire sortir la colonnette du passage.According to a sixth aspect, in certain embodiments, the connection assembly comprises tab return means, in particular elastic return means, configured to, in the absence of the post, hold the retaining tab in the fixing passage , at the same radial position as the shoulder of the column (in view along the fixing direction). Thus, when the tongue is placed in this radial position and the pin is in the fixing position, it blocks the axial displacement of the first shoulder of the pin, and thus prevents the pin from coming out of the passage.

Dans ce cas, l'ensemble de connexion est configuré de préférence pour que la connexion de la colonnette se fasse simplement en déplaçant la colonnette (en translation) dans le passage de fixation. Au cours de ce déplacement, la languette de retenue vient d'elle-même se mettre en prise contre l'épaulement de la colonnette, assurant ainsi la fixation axiale de celle-ci.In this case, the connection assembly is preferably configured so that the connection of the column is done simply by moving the column (in translation) in the fixing passage. During this movement, the retaining tongue itself comes into engagement against the shoulder of the column, thus ensuring the axial fixing of the latter.

L'ensemble de connexion est configuré de manière à permettre un déplacement de la colonnette depuis une position démontée dans laquelle la colonnette est à distance du deuxième connecteur, jusqu'à la position de fixation.The connection assembly is configured in such a way as to allow movement of the column from a disassembled position in which the column is at a distance from the second connector, to the fixing position.

Dans certains modes de réalisation, lors de ce déplacement la languette de retenue (qui est donc, en l'absence de la colonnette, disposée dans le passage de fixation du fait des moyens de rappel de languette) est repoussée radialement vers l'extérieur par l'épaulement lors de la mise en place de la colonnette dans le passage de fixation, puis se replace radialement vers l'intérieur en face de la surface en retrait lorsque l'épaulement s'est déplacé vers l'avant au-delà de la languette de retenue.In some embodiments, during this movement the retaining tab (which is therefore, in the absence of the pin, disposed in the fixing passage due to the tab return means) is pushed radially outwards by the shoulder when fitting the baluster in the attachment passage, then resets radially inward opposite the recessed surface when the shoulder has moved forward past the retaining tab.

Selon un septième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation dans lesquels la languette de retenue est une portion d'une pièce de retenue fixée au corps du deuxième connecteur, les moyens de rappel de languette sont constitués par la pièce de retenue, la languette de retenue étant formée intégralement avec la pièce de retenue.According to a seventh aspect, in certain embodiments in which the retaining tab is a portion of a retaining piece fixed to the body of the second connector, the tab return means consist of the retaining piece, the retaining tab being integrally formed with the retainer.

Selon un huitième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, le premier connecteur comprend une butée angulaire, et la colonnette comprend une butée angulaire, lesdites butées angulaires étant configurées pour venir en contact lorsque les moyens de rappel angulaire rappellent la colonnette dans ladite plage angulaire prédéterminée. La colonnette se place alors en position angulaire de fixation, c'est-à-dire la position angulaire qui permet que, lors de la connexion du premier connecteur au deuxième connecteur, la surface en retrait vienne se placer directement radialement en regard de la languette de retenue. Les moyens de rappel angulaire peuvent par exemple comprendre un ressort de torsion, par exemple hélicoïdal.According to an eighth aspect, in certain embodiments, the first connector comprises an angular abutment, and the column comprises an angular abutment, said angular abutments being configured to come into contact when the angular return means return the column in said predetermined angular range . The column is then placed in the angular fixing position, that is to say the angular position which allows that, when connecting the first connector to the second connector, the recessed surface comes to be placed directly radially opposite the tab restraint. The angular return means may for example comprise a torsion spring, for example helical.

De préférence, le premier et le deuxième connecteur sont configurés de telle sorte que la colonnette puisse passer de la position libérée à une position dégagée, dans laquelle la colonnette est placée plus en arrière qu'en position de fixation, et dans laquelle le deuxième connecteur permet la sortie de la colonnette hors de son passage de fixation, quelle que soit la position angulaire de la colonnette.Preferably, the first and the second connector are configured so that the post can pass from the released position to a disengaged position, in which the post is placed further back than in the fixing position, and in which the second connector allows the post to come out of its fixing passage, whatever the angular position of the post.

Ainsi selon un neuvième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, le premier connecteur comporte des moyens de rappel axial tels qu'un ressort configurés, lorsque la colonnette est en position libérée, pour déplacer la colonnette dans la direction de démontage jusqu'à une position dégagée dans laquelle la colonnette par rapport à un corps du premier connecteur, est placée en arrière de sa position axiale en position de fixation, et dans laquelle le deuxième connecteur permet la sortie de la colonnette hors de son passage de fixation, quelle que soit la position angulaire de la colonnette.Thus, according to a ninth aspect, in certain embodiments, the first connector comprises axial return means such as a spring configured, when the column is in the released position, to move the column in the dismantling direction to a position disengaged in which the post relative to a body of the first connector, is placed behind its axial position in the fixing position, and in which the second connector allows the post to come out of its fixing passage, whatever the angular position of the column.

De préférence, les connecteurs sont configurés de telle sorte que la différence de position axiale de la colonnette entre la position libérée et la position dégagée soit visible.Preferably, the connectors are configured such that the difference in axial position of the column between the released position and the disengaged position is visible.

Selon un dixième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, lesdits moyens de rappel angulaire et lesdits moyens de rappel axial sont constitués principalement par un même ressort hélicoïdal, configuré pour agir en torsion et en compression. Ce ressort peut notamment être agencé autour de la colonnette.According to a tenth aspect, in certain embodiments, said angular return means and said axial return means consist mainly of the same helical spring, configured to act in torsion and in compression. This spring can in particular be arranged around the column.

Selon un onzième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, le premier connecteur comporte un dispositif de butée axiale, permettant de limiter un déplacement axial de la colonnette suivant la direction de démontage par rapport au premier corps lorsque la colonnette est fixée à un corps du premier connecteur avant que celui-ci ne soit fixé au deuxième connecteur.According to an eleventh aspect, in certain embodiments, the first connector comprises an axial stop device, making it possible to limit an axial displacement of the column in the dismantling direction with respect to the first body when the column is fixed to a body of the first connector before it is attached to the second connector.

Selon un douzième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, le dispositif de butée axiale comporte une bague d'arrêt disposée autour de la colonnette, et un épaulement formé sur une surface intérieure du passage de guidage, la bague d'arrêt venant en butée contre l'épaulement lorsque la colonnette se déplace suivant la direction de démontage. La bague d'arrêt peut par exemple être une bague fendue, disposée dans une gorge circonférentielle de la colonnette.According to a twelfth aspect, in certain embodiments, the axial stop device comprises a stop ring arranged around the column, and a shoulder formed on an inner surface of the guide passage, the stop ring coming into abutment against the shoulder when the column moves in the dismantling direction. The stop ring can for example be a split ring, arranged in a circumferential groove of the column.

Selon un treizième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, l'ensemble de connexion comporte des moyens d'écartement configurés pour écarter élastiquement le premier connecteur par rapport au deuxième connecteur suivant la direction de fixation, lorsque le premier connecteur et le deuxième connecteur sont connectés l'un à l'autre. Ces moyens d'écartement permettent de positionner la languette de retenue en butée contre le premier épaulement lorsque la colonnette est en position de fixation.According to a thirteenth aspect, in certain embodiments, the connection assembly comprises spacer means configured to elastically space the first connector relative to the second connector in the fixing direction, when the first connector and the second connector are connected to one another. These spacer means make it possible to position the retaining tab in abutment against the first shoulder when the pin is in the fixing position.

Ces moyens d'écartement peuvent notamment comporter au moins une lamelle d'écartement, apte à être placée entre le premier connecteur et le deuxième connecteur.These spacer means may in particular comprise at least one spacer blade, able to be placed between the first connector and the second connector.

Selon un quatorzième aspect, dans certains modes de réalisation, l'action extérieure comporte une poussée axiale déplaçant la colonnette dans la direction de fixation. Dans ce cas, la colonnette peut fonctionner notamment suivant le principe 'push-latch' : pour déconnecter la colonnette du deuxième connecteur, il est nécessaire dans un premier temps de la pousser légèrement suivant la direction de fixation, pour la libérer du deuxième connecteur ; il est alors possible de la dégager du deuxième connecteur, ainsi que l'ensemble du premier connecteur, en la déplaçant en translation dans la direction de démontage (c'est-à-dire, la direction opposée à la direction de fixation).According to a fourteenth aspect, in certain embodiments, the external action comprises an axial thrust moving the column in the fixing direction. In this case, the column can operate in particular according to the 'push-latch' principle: to disconnect the column from the second connector, it is first necessary to push it slightly in the fixing direction, to release it from the second connector; it is then possible to disengage it from the second connector, as well as the whole of the first connector, by moving it in translation in the direction of disassembly (that is to say, the direction opposite to the direction of attachment).

Avantageusement, suivant la présente divulgation la colonnette passe de la position de fixation à la position libérée simplement par une action sur la colonnette elle-même. Cette colonnette passant à travers le deuxième connecteur, cette action peut se faire sensiblement suivant l'axe de la colonnette, et non sur les côtés des connecteurs. Grâce à cela, la déconnexion de la colonnette peut se faire dans un volume réduit.Advantageously, according to the present disclosure, the column passes from the fixing position to the released position simply by an action on the column itself. This column passing through the second connector, this action can be done substantially along the axis of the column, and not on the sides of the connectors. Thanks to this, the disconnection of the column can be done in a reduced volume.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

  • [Fig. 1] La figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'un ensemble de connexion avant connexion des deux connecteurs l'un à l'autre, dans un premier mode de réalisation de la présente divulgation.[ Fig. 1 ] The figure 1 is a perspective view of a connection assembly before connection of the two connectors to each other, in a first embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • [Fig. 2] La figure 2 est une vue en perspective en éclaté de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1.[ Fig. 2 ] The picture 2 is an exploded perspective view of the connector assembly of the figure 1 .
  • [Fig. 3] La figure 3 est une vue en coupe longitudinale de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en position de fixation.[ Fig. 3 ] The picture 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the connection assembly of the figure 1 , in the fixing position.
  • [Fig. 4] La figure 4 est une première vue en coupe transverse partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en position de fixation.[ Fig. 4 ] The figure 4 is a first partial cross-sectional view of the connection assembly of the figure 1 , in the fixing position.
  • [Fig. 5] La figure 5 est une deuxième vue en coupe transverse partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en position libérée.[ Fig. 5 ] The figure 5 is a second partial cross-sectional view of the connection assembly of the figure 1 , in the released position.
  • [Fig. 6] La figure 6 est une vue en perspective partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en début d'opération de connexion des deux connecteurs l'un à l'autre.[ Fig. 6 ] The figure 6 is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of the figure 1 , at the start of the connection operation of the two connectors to each other.
  • [Fig. 7] La figure 7 est une vue en perspective partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en cours d'opération de connexion des deux connecteurs l'un à l'autre.[ Fig. 7 ] The figure 7 is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of the figure 1 , in the process of connecting the two connectors to each other.
  • [Fig. 8] La figure 8 est une vue en perspective partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en fin d'opération de connexion des deux connecteurs l'un à l'autre.[ Fig. 8 ] The figure 8 is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of the figure 1 , at the end of the connection operation of the two connectors to each other.
  • [Fig. 9] La figure 9 est une vue en perspective partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en début d'opération de déconnexion des deux connecteurs l'un de l'autre.[ Fig. 9 ] The figure 9 is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of the figure 1 , at the start of the operation of disconnecting the two connectors from each other.
  • [Fig. 10] La figure 10 est une vue en perspective partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en cours d'opération de déconnexion des deux connecteurs l'un de l'autre.[ Fig. 10 ] The figure 10 is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of the figure 1 , in the process of disconnecting the two connectors from each other.
  • [Fig. 11] La figure 11 est une vue en perspective partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, en fin d'opération de déconnexion des deux connecteurs l'un de l'autre.[ Fig. 11 ] The figure 11 is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of the figure 1 , at the end of the operation of disconnecting the two connectors from each other.
  • [Fig. 12] La figure 12 est une vue en perspective partielle de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, montrant notamment la tête d'une colonnette.[ Fig. 12 ] The figure 12 is a partial perspective view of the connector assembly of the figure 1 , showing in particular the head of a small column.
  • [Fig. 13] La figure 13 est une vue latérale d'un ressort de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, lorsqu'il est comprimé.[ Fig. 13 ] The figure 13 is a side view of a spring of the connection assembly of the figure 1 , when compressed.
  • [Fig. 14] La figure 14 est une vue latérale d'un ressort de l'ensemble de connexion de la figure 1, lorsqu'il est en extension.[ Fig. 14 ] The figure 14 is a side view of a spring of the connection assembly of the figure 1 , when extended.
  • [Fig. 15] La figure 15 est une vue en perspective d'une colonnette d'un ensemble de connexion constituant un deuxième mode de réalisation de la présente divulgation.[ Fig. 15 ] The figure 15 is a perspective view of a post of a connection assembly constituting a second embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • [Fig. 16] La figure 16 est une vue en perspective partielle d'un ensemble de connexion illustrant un troisième mode de réalisation de la présente divulgation.[ Fig. 16 ] The figure 16 is a partial perspective view of a connector assembly illustrating a third embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • [Fig. 17] La figure 17 est une vue en coupe longitudinale partielle d'un ensemble de connexion illustrant un quatrième mode de réalisation de la présente divulgation.[ Fig. 17 ] The figure 17 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of a connector assembly illustrating a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • [Fig. 18] La figure 18 est une vue en coupe longitudinale partielle d'un ensemble de connexion illustrant un cinquième mode de réalisation de la présente divulgation.[ Fig. 18 ] The figure 18 is a partial longitudinal sectional view of a connector assembly illustrating a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.
Description de modes de réalisationDescription of embodiments

Un ensemble de connexion 1 constituant un exemple d'un premier mode de réalisation de la présente divulgation va maintenant être présenté en relation avec les figures 1 à 14.A connection assembly 1 constituting an example of a first embodiment of the present disclosure will now be presented in relation to the figures 1 to 14 .

L'ensemble de connexion 1 comprend un premier connecteur 100 et un deuxième connecteur 200. Ces connecteurs sont configurés pour permettre la connexion de conducteurs conçus pour la communication de signaux de télécommunication ou pour transmettre du courant électrique. Chacun des connecteurs 100 et 200 peut être fixé à un support fixe, notamment une carte électronique telle qu'un PCB, et/ou être fixé à un câble de télécommunications comprenant un certain nombre de conducteurs permettant le transport de signaux électriques et/ou de courant(s).The connection assembly 1 comprises a first connector 100 and a second connector 200. These connectors are configured to allow the connection of conductors designed for the communication of telecommunication signals or for transmitting electric current. Each of the connectors 100 and 200 can be fixed to a fixed support, in particular an electronic card such as a PCB, and/or be fixed to a telecommunications cable comprising a certain number of conductors allowing the transport of electrical signals and/or current(s).

Le connecteur 100 est configuré pour être connecté au connecteur 200 en le faisant simplement se déplacer suivant une direction de fixation X+ (la direction de démontage X- étant la direction opposée), jusqu'à ce qu'il atteigne une position finale, dite position de fixation (le connecteur 200 restant fixe). Le côté dirigé du côté indiqué par la direction de fixation X+ est dit 'côté avant', alors que le côté opposé est dit 'côté arrière'.The connector 100 is configured to be connected to the connector 200 by simply causing it to move along a direction of fixing X+ (the direction of dismantling X- being the opposite direction), until it reaches a final position, called position fixing (the connector 200 remaining fixed). The directed side of the side indicated by the fixing direction X+ is called 'front side', while the opposite side is called 'rear side'.

Dans le mode de réalisation proposé, l'ensemble de connexion 1 est symétrique par rapport à un plan xOz (plan y=0) contenant l'axe X. Pour cette raison, la même référence numérique est attribuée aux pièces ou parties de l'ensemble de connexion 1 situées symétriquement d'un côté et de l'autre côté de ce plan de symétrie xOz, et seule une moitié du connecteur disposée sur un même côté du plan xOz est décrite.In the proposed embodiment, the connection assembly 1 is symmetrical with respect to an xOz plane (y=0 plane) containing the X axis. For this reason, the same numerical reference is assigned to the parts or parts of the connection assembly 1 located symmetrically on one side and on the other side of this xOz plane of symmetry, and only one half of the connector arranged on the same side of the xOz plane is described.

Le connecteur 100 comprend un corps 110 et deux colonnettes 120 (Le connecteur 100 pourrait ne comprendre qu'une seule colonnette, ou encore il pourrait en comprendre 3, 4, 5 ou davantage). Bien que les colonnettes puissent être formées intégralement avec le corps 110, dans ce mode de réalisation elles sont des pièces distinctes de celui-ci.The connector 100 comprises a body 110 and two columns 120 (the connector 100 could comprise only one column, or it could comprise 3, 4, 5 or more). Although the posts can be formed integrally with the body 110, in this embodiment they are separate parts thereof.

Une colonnette 120 présente une tête 122 et une tige 124, qui sont toutes deux sensiblement cylindriques et coaxiales. Pour assembler le premier connecteur 100, on fixe la colonnette au corps 110 du premier connecteur 100 en faisant passer la colonnette 120 dans un passage de guidage 112 aménagé dans le corps 110. La colonnette 120 est configurée pour pouvoir être introduite dans le passage 112 correspondant suivant la direction de fixation X+. Elle ne peut cependant pas dépasser une position de déplacement maximal, car la tête 122 ne peut pénétrer dans le passage 112 dans sa section centrale 114, qui est de diamètre inférieur à celui de la tête 122.A post 120 has a head 122 and a stem 124, which are both substantially cylindrical and coaxial. To assemble the first connector 100, the post is fixed to the body 110 of the first connector 100 by passing the post 120 through a guide passage 112 provided in the body 110. The post 120 is configured to be able to be introduced into the corresponding passage 112 along the fixing direction X+. It cannot, however, exceed a position of maximum displacement, because the head 122 cannot enter the passage 112 in its central section 114, which is of smaller diameter than that of the head 122.

On fixe alors sur la colonnette 120 une bague d'arrêt 130, en clippant celle-ci (fabriquée dans ce but dans un matériau élastique approprié) dans une gorge circonférentielle 128 de la colonnette. La bague 130, qui est une bague fendue, est introduite sur la colonnette depuis l'extrémité avant 125 de celle-ci. Le passage de guidage 112 comporte une butée circonférentielle 116 au niveau de laquelle, suivant la direction de démontage, son diamètre intérieur passe d'une valeur légèrement supérieure au diamètre extérieur de la bague 130 à une valeur inférieure à ce diamètre. Ainsi, la butée 116 empêche le déplacement de la colonnette 120 dans la direction de démontage au-delà d'une certaine position, dans laquelle la bague d'arrêt 130 est en butée contre la butée 116. Ainsi, une fois la bague 130 montée sur la colonnette 120, celle-ci ne peut être démontée (sauf après avoir retiré la bague 130).A stop ring 130 is then fixed on the column 120, by clipping the latter (made for this purpose in a suitable elastic material) in a circumferential groove 128 of the column. The ring 130, which is a split ring, is introduced on the column from the front end 125 thereof. The guide passage 112 includes a circumferential stop 116 at the level of which, in the dismantling direction, its inside diameter changes from a value slightly greater than the outside diameter of the ring 130 to a value less than this diameter. Thus, the stop 116 prevents the movement of the pin 120 in the direction of dismantling beyond a certain position, in which the stop ring 130 is in abutment against the stop 116. Thus, once the ring 130 mounted on the column 120, it cannot be disassembled (except after having removed the ring 130).

Le connecteur 200 comprend un corps 210 et une pièce de retenue 220. La pièce de retenue 220 présente une languette de retenue 222.Connector 200 includes a body 210 and a retainer 220. The retainer 220 has a retainer tab 222.

Dans le corps 210, un passage de fixation 212 est formé pour chaque colonnette 120. Chaque passage de fixation 212 du corps 210 est agencé de manière à pouvoir être disposé en face d'un passage de guidage 112 du corps 110, et présente un diamètre intérieur sensiblement égal (au jeu près) au diamètre extérieur de la tige 124. Par conséquent, lorsque la colonnette 120 est en position de fixation, et qu'une partie avant de la colonnette 120 est engagée dans le passage de fixation 212, les passages de guidage 112 et de fixation 212 sont maintenus coaxiaux et l'un en face de l'autre par la colonnette.In the body 210, a fixing passage 212 is formed for each post 120. Each fixing passage 212 of the body 210 is arranged so as to be able to be placed opposite a guide passage 112 of the body 110, and has a diameter interior substantially equal (to the nearest clearance) to the outside diameter of the rod 124. Consequently, when the pin 120 is in the fixing position, and a front part of the pin 120 is engaged in the fixing passage 212, the passages guide 112 and fixing 212 are kept coaxial and facing each other by the column.

En outre, à son extrémité avant 125, qui est disposée dans le passage 212 lorsque la colonnette 120 est en position de fixation (Fig.3), la colonnette 120 présente une surface circonférentielle 132. Cette surface 132 comporte :

  • dans un premier secteur angulaire S1, une surface en retrait 136 située entre un premier épaulement 138 du côté avant, et un deuxième épaulement du côté arrière ; et
  • dans un deuxième secteur angulaire S2, une surface de démontage 134.
In addition, at its front end 125, which is disposed in the passage 212 when the column 120 is in the fixing position ( Fig.3 ), the column 120 has a circumferential surface 132. This surface 132 comprises:
  • in a first angular sector S1, a recessed surface 136 located between a first shoulder 138 on the front side, and a second shoulder on the rear side; and
  • in a second angular sector S2, a dismantling surface 134.

La surface en retrait 136, entre le premier et le deuxième épaulements 138 et 139, forme une encoche 137 dans la surface circonférentielle 132.Recessed surface 136, between first and second shoulders 138 and 139, forms a notch 137 in circumferential surface 132.

La surface de démontage 134, dans ce mode de réalisation, est une surface présentant une section transverse (dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe X) sensiblement constante quelle que soit la position suivant la direction de fixation X+, depuis la position axiale de la languette 222 (en position de fixation de la colonnette) jusqu'à la pointe de la colonnette. Dans ce mode de réalisation, cette section transverse forme un arc de cercle de rayon R centré sur l'axe X.The dismantling surface 134, in this embodiment, is a surface having a transverse section (in a plane perpendicular to the axis X) that is substantially constant regardless of the position along the fixing direction X+, from the axial position of the tab 222 (in the fixing position of the column) to the tip of the column. In this embodiment, this transverse section forms an arc of a circle of radius R centered on the X axis.

Comme la section transverse de la surface de démontage est constante quelle que soit la position suivant la direction de fixation X+, la surface de démontage 134 ne présente aucun épaulement, aucune saillie susceptible d'empêcher la languette 222 de se déplacer jusqu'à la pointe de la colonnette 120 en glissant sur la surface 134.As the cross-section of the dismantling surface is constant regardless of the position along the fixing direction X+, the dismantling surface 134 has no shoulder, no protrusion liable to prevent the tongue 222 from moving as far as the tip. of the column 120 by sliding on the surface 134.

La surface en retrait 136, qui est délimitée à l'avant par le premier épaulement 138, est située radialement en retrait par rapport à cet épaulement, c'est-à-dire qu'elle est disposée radialement dans une plage de distances d de l'axe X inférieures au rayon R de l'épaulement 138.The recessed surface 136, which is delimited at the front by the first shoulder 138, is located radially set back with respect to this shoulder, that is to say it is arranged radially in a range of distances d from the axis X less than the radius R of the shoulder 138.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, l'épaulement 138 a une forme cylindrique de même rayon R que la surface de démontage 134. Par suite, la surface en retrait 136 forme une surface en retrait non seulement par rapport à l'épaulement 138 mais aussi par rapport à la surface de démontage 134.In this embodiment, the shoulder 138 has a cylindrical shape with the same radius R as the dismantling surface 134. Consequently, the recessed surface 136 forms a recessed surface not only with respect to the shoulder 138 but also by relative to the dismantling surface 134.

Le deuxième connecteur est équipé en outre de la pièce de retenue 220. Bien que cette pièce puisse être formée intégralement avec le corps 210 (comme c'est illustré par la Fig.17), dans le mode de réalisation proposé il s'agit d'une pièce distincte, fixée rigidement au corps 210. La pièce 220 est une pièce formée à partir d'une partie de feuillard métallique pliée et coupée, et qui présente une large plage de déformation élastique.The second connector is further equipped with retainer 220. Although this may be integrally formed with body 210 (as shown in Fig.17 ), in the proposed embodiment it is a separate part, rigidly fixed to the body 210. The part 220 is a part formed from a part of folded and cut metal strip, and which has a wide range of elastic deformation.

Le corps 210 et la pièce 220 sont configurés de manière à permettre de fixer rigidement la pièce 220 au corps 210. Cette fixation peut être assurée par tout moyen approprié.The body 210 and the part 220 are configured in such a way as to allow the part 220 to be rigidly fixed to the body 210. This fixing can be ensured by any suitable means.

La languette 222 de la pièce 220 est inclinée par rapport à la direction de fixation, de telle sorte qu'elle est d'autant plus proche de l'axe X que l'on se déplace vers l'avant suivant la direction de fixation X+. Lorsque la pièce de retenue 220 et la colonnette 120 sont en position de fixation, la languette 222 est disposée en face de la surface de fixation 136. L'extrémité de la languette est alors en appui à la fois sur cette surface 136, et sur l'épaulement 138. Comme on le voit sur la Fig.4, dans cette position, la languette de retenue 222 est maintenue à la même position radiale (est à la même distance de l'axe X) que l'épaulement 138, et empêche ainsi la sortie de la colonnette 120 hors du passage 212.The tongue 222 of the part 220 is inclined with respect to the direction of attachment, so that it is all the closer to the axis X as one moves forwards along the direction of attachment X+ . When the retainer 220 and the column 120 are in the fixing position, the tongue 222 is arranged opposite the fixing surface 136. The end of the tongue then bears both on this surface 136, and on shoulder 138. As seen in the Fig.4 , in this position, the retaining tongue 222 is maintained at the same radial position (is at the same distance from the axis X) as the shoulder 138, and thus prevents the output of the pin 120 from the passage 212.

Le premier connecteur 100 est équipé en outre d'un ressort 140. Ce ressort 140 est un ressort agissant à la fois en torsion et en compression, et est un exemple de moyens de rappel angulaire et de moyens de rappel axial au sens de la présente divulgation.The first connector 100 is further equipped with a spring 140. This spring 140 is a spring acting both in torsion and in compression, and is an example of angular return means and axial return means within the meaning of the present disclosure.

En effet, le ressort 140 est configuré pour, lorsque la colonnette 120 est montée dans les passages 112 et 212, faire tourner la colonnette 120 autour de son axe et ainsi la rappeler dans une certaine position ou du moins plage angulaire. Cette action sert à placer la colonnette 120 dans la position angulaire dite 'position angulaire de fixation', dans laquelle, si la colonnette 120 est engagée dans les passages 112 et 212, la languette 222 va venir en appui sur la surface en retrait 136 : c'est la position angulaire représentée notamment sur les Fig.3 et 4. Comme cela sera expliqué plus loin, la colonnette 120 est placée en position angulaire de fixation non pas uniquement grâce au ressort 140, mais grâce à l'action du ressort 140 combinée avec la présence de butées angulaires 142 et 144.Indeed, the spring 140 is configured to, when the column 120 is mounted in the passages 112 and 212, rotate the column 120 around its axis and thus return it to a certain position or at least an angular range. This action serves to place the pin 120 in the angular position known as the 'angular fixing position', in which, if the pin 120 is engaged in the passages 112 and 212, the tongue 222 will come to rest on the recessed surface 136: it is the angular position represented in particular on the Fig.3 and 4 . As will be explained later, the column 120 is placed in the angular fixing position not only thanks to the spring 140, but thanks to the action of the spring 140 combined with the presence of angular stops 142 and 144.

A l'inverse, la Fig.5 représente une position angulaire dite 'position angulaire libérée' (ou 'position angulaire de démontage'), dans laquelle la languette 222 n'est pas en appui sur la surface de fixation 136, mais au contraire est en appui sur la surface de démontage 134.Conversely, the Fig.5 represents an angular position called 'released angular position' (or 'angular dismantling position'), in which the tongue 222 is not resting on the fixing surface 136, but on the contrary is resting on the dismantling surface 134.

Lors de la connexion du premier connecteur 100 au deuxième connecteur 200, la colonnette est engagée dans les passages 112 et 212. Lors de ce déplacement, pour permettre que la languette 222 se mette en place contre la surface en retrait 136, il faut que la colonnette soit dans une position angulaire (la position angulaire de fixation) qui corresponde à la position angulaire de la languette de retenue. Pour placer la colonnette de manière certaine dans cette position angulaire voulue, en complément du ressort 140, le corps 110 comporte une butée 142, et la tête 122 de la colonnette comporte une butée correspondante 144. Ces butées sont configurées de manière à bloquer en rotation (par rapport à l'axe du passage de guidage) la colonnette 120 dans la position angulaire voulue. Le corps 110 et la tête 122 de la colonnette comportent par ailleurs des butées 146,148 qui empêchent de faire tourner la colonnette d'un angle excessif dans la direction de rotation opposée. La tête de colonnette 122 comporte un alésage hexagonal 150 grâce auquel on peut la faire tourner à l'aide d'une clé Allen (toute autre forme de tête permettant d'entraîner la colonnette en rotation autour de son axe serait bien sûr envisageable).When connecting the first connector 100 to the second connector 200, the column is engaged in the passages 112 and 212. During this movement, to allow the tongue 222 to be put in place against the recessed surface 136, column is in an angular position (the angular fixing position) which corresponds to the angular position of the retaining tab. To place the column with certainty in this desired angular position, in addition to the spring 140, the body 110 comprises a stop 142, and the head 122 of the column comprises a corresponding stop 144. These stops are configured so as to block in rotation (relative to the axis of the guide passage) the column 120 in the desired angular position. The body 110 and the head 122 of the column also comprise stops 146,148 which prevent the column from being rotated by an excessive angle in the opposite direction of rotation. The column head 122 has a hexagonal bore 150 thanks to which it can be rotated using an Allen key (any other shape of head making it possible to drive the column in rotation about its axis would of course be possible).

Le ressort 140 agit non seulement en torsion pour maintenir la colonnette 120 dans la position angulaire voulue pour sa fixation, mais également en compression.The spring 140 acts not only in torsion to maintain the column 120 in the angular position desired for its attachment, but also in compression.

En effet, en position de fixation le ressort 140 est comprimé suivant l'axe X de la colonnette 120 (Fig.3). Du fait que la colonnette est empêchée axialement de se déplacer dans la direction de démontage (X-) par la languette de retenue 222, la tête de colonnette se trouve axialement au niveau de l'extrémité du corps 110, et ne dépasse pas du corps 110 dans la direction de démontage (c'est-à-dire, ne s'étend pas du côté de la direction de démontage au-delà du plan P d'extrémité du corps 110).Indeed, in the fixing position the spring 140 is compressed along the axis X of the column 120 ( Fig.3 ). Because the standoff is axially restrained from moving in the disassembly direction (X-) by the retaining tab 222, the standoff head is axially at the end of the body 110, and does not protrude from the body. 110 in the direction of disassembly (that is to say, does not extend on the side of the direction of disassembly beyond the end plane P of the body 110).

Inversement, dès lors que la colonnette est en position libérée représentée sur la Fig.5, la colonnette est repoussée par le ressort 140, jusqu'à ce que la bague d'arrêt 130 soit en butée contre la butée 116 (le ressort agit alors comme 'moyens de rappel axial'). Dans cette position, la tête 122 de la colonnette dépasse du corps 110 de manière visible: cela permet ainsi visuellement de distinguer la situation où la colonnette est fixée en position montée (Fig. 13, la tête 122 ne dépasse pas du corps 110), de la position de démontage (Fig.14, la tête 122 dépasse au-dessus du plan P délimitant le corps 110).Conversely, when the column is in the released position represented on the Fig.5 , the pin is pushed back by the spring 140, until the stop ring 130 is in abutment against the abutment 116 (the spring then acts as 'axial return means'). In this position, the head 122 of the column protrudes visibly from the body 110: this thus makes it possible visually to distinguish the situation where the column is fixed in the mounted position ( Fig. 13 , the head 122 does not protrude from the body 110), from the dismantling position ( Fig.14 , the head 122 protrudes above the plane P delimiting the body 110).

Avantageusement, lorsque le connecteur 100 n'est pas fixé au connecteur 200, pour chaque colonnette 120 le ressort 140 maintient la colonnette en position « prêt à connecter », puisqu'il maintient alors chacune des colonnettes en position angulaire de fixation. Cette position « prêt à connecter » permet un verrouillage de la connexion rapide et sécurisé, et dans certains cas en aveugle. L'extrémité des colonnettes est conique pour assurer le pré-guidage des colonnettes.Advantageously, when the connector 100 is not fixed to the connector 200, for each column 120 the spring 140 holds the column in the “ready to connect” position, since it then holds each of the columns in the angular fixing position. This "ready to connect" position allows a quick and secure locking of the connection, and in some cases blind. The end of the columns is conical to ensure the pre-guiding of the columns.

En plus de la languette 222, la pièce de retenue joue un rôle de mise en position relative prédéterminée du premier connecteur 100 par rapport au deuxième connecteur 200. Dans ce but, la pièce de retenue 220 comporte deux lamelles d'écartement 224. Ces lamelles, qui sont élastiques, sont disposées sensiblement dans un plan transverse (X=Cte) par rapport à l'axe de la colonnette 120, mais sont cependant légèrement inclinées par rapport à ce plan. Les connecteurs 100 et 200 sont configurés de telle sorte qu'en position de fixation, ces lamelles sont prises en sandwich entre les parois en vis-à-vis du corps 110 et du corps 210. Par conséquent, du fait de leur élasticité, les lamelles tendent à écarter l'un de l'autre, suivant la direction de montage, les deux corps 110,210. Ces forces d'écartement, d'une part conduisent la languette 222 à être en appui contre l'épaulement 138 de la colonnette 120 ; d'autre part, elles garantissent que la surface inférieure 126 de la tête de colonnette 122 est bien en butée sur la surface d'appui 118 du boîtier 110. Grâce à cela, le jeu éventuel qui pourrait exister entre le corps 110 et la tête 122 est rattrapé, et ainsi le connecteur 100 est fixé sans jeu au connecteur 200 (La force d'écartement, par pièce de retenue 220, peut par exemple être supérieure à 5 N), et ne risque pas la déconnexion même s'il y a des vibrations.In addition to the tab 222, the retainer plays a role of placing the first connector 100 in a predetermined relative position with respect to the second connector 200. For this purpose, the retainer 220 comprises two spacer strips 224. These strips , which are elastic, are arranged substantially in a transverse plane (X=Cte) relative to the axis of the column 120, but are however slightly inclined relative to this plane. The connectors 100 and 200 are configured such that in the fixing position, these slats are sandwiched between the facing walls of the body 110 and the body 210. Consequently, due to their elasticity, the slats tend to separate from each other, in the direction of assembly, the two bodies 110.210. These spreading forces, on the one hand lead the tab 222 to bear against the shoulder 138 of the column 120; on the other hand, they guarantee that the lower surface 126 of the column head 122 is indeed in abutment on the support surface 118 of the housing 110. Thanks to this, the possible play which could exist between the body 110 and the head 122 is caught up, and thus the connector 100 is fixed without play to the connector 200 (the separation force, by retainer 220, can for example be greater than 5 N), and does not risk disconnection even if there is has vibration.

La connexion des connecteurs 100 et 200 l'un à l'autre se fait de la manière suivante :
Préalablement, le premier connecteur 100 est assemblé: chaque colonnette 120 est placée dans l'un des passages 112 du corps 110 du premier connecteur et équipée de sa bague d'arrêt 130.The connection of connectors 100 and 200 to each other is done as follows:
Beforehand, the first connector 100 is assembled: each post 120 is placed in one of the passages 112 of the body 110 of the first connector and equipped with its stop ring 130.

S10) On positionne le connecteur 100 en face du connecteur 200 de telle sorte que les axes des colonnettes 120 soient confondus avec les axes des passages de fixation 212 dans lesquelles elles doivent être placées. (Comme précédemment, la description qui suit fait référence à une seule colonnette 120, mais les remarques formulées pour cette colonnette sont applicables à l'ensemble des colonnettes).S10) The connector 100 is positioned opposite the connector 200 so that the axes of the columns 120 coincide with the axes of the fixing passages 212 in which they must be placed. (As before, the following description refers to a single column 120, but the comments made for this column are applicable to all the columns).

S20) On approche le connecteur 100 du connecteur 200 en le déplaçant suivant la direction de fixation X+. La colonnette 120 se place automatiquement en position angulaire de fixation, grâce au couple de rappel du ressort 140 et aux butées angulaires 142,144.S20) The connector 100 is approached to the connector 200 by moving it along the fixing direction X+. The column 120 is placed automatically in the angular fixing position, thanks to the return torque of the spring 140 and the angular stops 142.144.

L'extrémité 125 de la colonnette s'engage dans le passage de fixation 212. La languette 222, qui est à ce stade (Fig.6) par élasticité rappelée en position dans le passage de fixation en face de la colonnette 120 (suivant l'axe X) est repoussée radialement vers l'extérieur par l'extrémité 125 de la colonnette, ce qui permet à la colonnette de poursuivre son déplacement vers l'avant (Fig.7).The end 125 of the column engages in the fixing passage 212. The tongue 222, which is at this stage ( Fig.6 ) by elasticity recalled in position in the fixing passage opposite the column 120 (along the axis X) is pushed radially outwards by the end 125 of the column, which allows the column to continue its movement forward ( Fig.7 ).

Une fois les deux connecteurs 100 et 200 en contact (et les lamelles élastiques 224 compressées), on arrête alors de déplacer le premier connecteur vers l'avant. A ce moment-là, les têtes de colonnettes 122 dépassent encore de l'arrière du boîtier 110.Once the two connectors 100 and 200 are in contact (and the elastic slats 224 compressed), the first connector is then stopped moving forwards. At this time, the column heads 122 still protrude from the rear of the box 110.

S30) Pour finaliser la connexion on pousse alors, manuellement ou avec un outil, sur les deux têtes de colonnettes 122 (alternativement ou simultanément) jusqu'à ce que la surface inférieure 126 de la tête de colonnette 122 soit en contact avec la surface d'appui 118 du boîtier 110. Les connecteurs atteignent alors la position de fixation.S30) To finalize the connection, one then pushes, manually or with a tool, the two column heads 122 (alternately or simultaneously) until the lower surface 126 of the column head 122 is in contact with the surface of the column. support 118 of the housing 110. The connectors then reach the fixing position.

Lors de ce déplacement, lorsque la colonnette 120 atteint la position de fixation, la languette 222 n'est plus radialement en face de l'épaulement 138, mais parvient en face de la surface en retrait 136 : elle se plaque alors contre cette surface avec un bruit audible. Le ressort 140 rappelle alors vers l'arrière la colonnette 120, de telle sorte que la languette 222 se plaque en butée contre l'épaulement 138 (Fig.8).During this movement, when the pin 120 reaches the fixing position, the tab 222 is no longer radially opposite the shoulder 138, but comes opposite the recessed surface 136: it then presses against this surface with an audible noise. The spring 140 then pulls back the column 120, so that the tongue 222 is pressed into abutment against the shoulder 138 ( Fig.8 ).

Les lamelles élastiques 224 sont à ce moment en compression entre les deux connecteurs 100 et 200, et tendent à écarter le corps 110 du corps 210. Sous l'effet de cette pression, la colonnette 120 est rappelée vers l'arrière, ce qui maintient l'extrémité de la languette 222 en appui ferme contre l'épaulement 138.The elastic strips 224 are at this time in compression between the two connectors 100 and 200, and tend to separate the body 110 from the body 210. Under the effect of this pressure, the column 120 is biased rearwards, which maintains the end of the tongue 222 resting firmly against the shoulder 138.

Pour déconnecter le connecteur 100 du connecteur 200, on procède de la manière suivante.To disconnect the connector 100 from the connector 200, one proceeds as follows.

Les connecteurs sont initialement en position de fixation (Fig.8).The connectors are initially in the fixing position ( Fig.8 ).

S120) On fait tourner la colonnette 120 autour de son axe X à l'aide d'une clé Allen (Figs.9,10). Lors de ce mouvement, la colonnette passe de la position angulaire de fixation (Fig.4) à la position angulaire libérée (Fig.5). L'extrémité de la languette 222 est repoussée radialement progressivement par la surface en retrait 136 et passe en contact avec la surface de démontage 134. Dans cette dernière position, la colonnette 120 n'est plus empêchée de se déplacer suivant la direction de démontage par l'épaulement 138, et le premier connecteur 100 peut être déplacé vers l'arrière.S120) The column 120 is rotated around its X axis using an Allen key ( Figs.9,10 ). During this movement, the column moves from the angular fixing position ( Fig.4 ) to the released angular position ( Fig.5 ). The end of the tongue 222 is gradually pushed back radially by the recessed surface 136 and comes into contact with the disassembly surface 134. In the latter position, the column 120 is no longer prevented from moving in the dismantling direction by the shoulder 138, and the first connector 100 can be moved rearward.

S130) Tout en maintenant la colonnette 120 en position angulaire libérée (pour éviter qu'elle ne revienne en position angulaire de fixation sous l'effet du couple de rappel du ressort 140), on déplace la colonnette (par rapport au premier connecteur, ou en même temps que celui-ci) dans la direction de démontage au moins jusqu'à ce que la surface en retrait 136 ne soit plus, axialement, au niveau de la languette 222. La position ainsi atteinte est dite 'position dégagée' : c'est la position axiale de la colonnette, située plus en arrière que la position libérée, dans laquelle le deuxième connecteur (à savoir, la languette 222) ne peut plus empêcher la sortie de la colonnette 120 hors du passage 212, quelle que soit la position angulaire de la colonnette.S130) While maintaining the column 120 in the released angular position (to prevent it from returning to the angular fixing position under the effect of the restoring torque of the spring 140), the column is moved (relative to the first connector, or at the same time as the latter) in the dismantling direction at least until the recessed surface 136 is no longer, axially, at the level of the tab 222. The position thus reached is called the 'disengaged position': c is the axial position of the column, located further back than the released position, in which the second connector (namely, the tongue 222) can no longer prevent the exit of the column 120 from the passage 212, whatever the angular position of the column.

S140) Enfin, soit en continuant à maintenir la colonnette 120 dans la position angulaire libérée, soit en la laissant revenir en position angulaire de fixation, on déplace le premier connecteur 100 dans la direction de démontage, ce qui permet de le déconnecter du deuxième connecteur 200.S140) Finally, either by continuing to maintain the post 120 in the released angular position, or by allowing it to return to the angular fixing position, the first connector 100 is moved in the dismantling direction, which makes it possible to disconnect it from the second connector 200.

Pour éviter le risque que la colonnette, après avoir été placée en position angulaire libérée (mais avant d'atteindre la position dégagée), ne revienne malencontreusement en position angulaire de fixation (ce qui aurait pour effet que la languette 222 se plaquerait à nouveau contre la surface en retrait et empêcherait donc la sortie de la colonnette), dans certains modes de réalisation des moyens pour bloquer en rotation la colonnette, une fois qu'elle a été mise en position angulaire libérée, peuvent être prévus.To avoid the risk that the column, after having been placed in the released angular position (but before reaching the released position), inadvertently returns to the angular fixing position (which would have the effect that the tongue 222 would press against the recessed surface and would therefore prevent the release of the column), in certain embodiments, means for locking the column in rotation, once it has been placed in the released angular position, may be provided.

Ainsi dans certains modes de réalisation, la surface de démontage 134 et la languette de retenue peuvent être configurées de telle sorte que, une fois que la colonnette est placée en position libérée (et peut alors se déplacer dans la direction de démontage), la colonnette est astreinte à rester en position angulaire fixe par rapport à son axe.Thus in certain embodiments, the disassembly surface 134 and the retaining tab can be configured such that, once the pillar is placed in the released position (and can then move in the direction of disassembly), the pillar is required to remain in a fixed angular position with respect to its axis.

Ce blocage en rotation, qui ne doit pas empêcher la colonnette de coulisser par rapport au deuxième connecteur, peut être réalisé notamment grâce à une coopération de forme entre la languette de retenue et la surface de démontage.This locking in rotation, which must not prevent the column from sliding relative to the second connector, can be achieved in particular thanks to a form of cooperation between the retaining tab and the dismantling surface.

Par exemple, la surface de démontage peut comporter une rainure de guidage telle que la rainure 135 représentée sur la Fig. 16. Le mode de réalisation représenté sur cette figure est identique au premier mode de réalisation, sauf que la rainure de guidage 135 est aménagée dans la surface de démontage 134.For example, the disassembly surface may include a guide groove such as the groove 135 shown on the Fig. 16 . The embodiment shown in this figure is identical to the first embodiment, except that the guide groove 135 is provided in the disassembly surface 134.

Lors de la déconnexion du connecteur 100, à l'étape S120) on fait tourner la colonnette 120 autour de son axe. La languette 222 se retrouve (radialement) en face de la surface de démontage 134. Par conséquent, la languette 222 se place au fond de la rainure 135, et empêche dès lors la colonnette 120 de tourner autour de son axe, et cela malgré le couple de rappel exercé par le ressort 140. Il s'ensuit qu'au cours de l'étape S130, la colonnette peut être extraite du passage 212 sans risque que la languette 222 ne vienne interrompre ce déplacement en se bloquant contre le premier épaulement 138.When disconnecting the connector 100, in step S120) the column 120 is rotated around its axis. The tongue 222 is found (radially) in front of the dismantling surface 134. Consequently, the tongue 222 is placed at the bottom of the groove 135, and therefore prevents the column 120 from rotating around its axis, and this despite the return torque exerted by the spring 140. It follows that during step S130, the pin can be extracted from the passage 212 without risk that the tongue 222 does not come to interrupt this movement by locking against the first shoulder 138 .

Par ailleurs, pour faciliter la sortie de la languette 222 hors de l'encoche 137, il est possible de prévoir l'étape supplémentaire suivante, au début de la procédure de déconnexion avant l'étape S120 :
S110) on déplace légèrement la colonnette 120 suivant la direction de fixation.Furthermore, to facilitate the release of the tongue 222 from the notch 137, it is possible to provide the following additional step, at the start of the disconnection procedure before step S120:
S110) the column 120 is moved slightly in the fixing direction.

Cette étape est réalisée si le premier connecteur est aménagé de manière à permettre à la colonnette d'avancer dans la direction de fixation alors que les connecteurs sont en position de fixation, comme dans le mode de réalisation représenté par la Fig. 18.This step is carried out if the first connector is arranged in such a way as to allow the column to move forward in the fixing direction while the connectors are in the fixing position, as in the embodiment represented by the Fig. 18 .

Dans ce mode de réalisation, le connecteur 100 est configuré de telle sorte que la colonnette 120 peut se déplacer suivant la direction de fixation à l'étape 110, qui est la première étape de la procédure de déconnexion. Ce déplacement permet à l'épaulement 139 de venir repousser la languette 222 et de faire sortir celle-ci de l'encoche 137. A l'étape S120, la rotation de la colonnette autour de son axe est ainsi facilitée.In this embodiment, connector 100 is configured such that post 120 can move in the direction of attachment at step 110, which is the first step in the disconnect procedure. This movement allows the shoulder 139 to come push the tab 222 and cause it to come out of the notch 137. In step S120, the rotation of the column around its axis is thus facilitated.

Deuxième mode de réalisationSecond embodiment

Un deuxième mode de réalisation va maintenant être présenté en relation avec la figure 15. Ce mode de réalisation est identique au premier mode de réalisation, à l'exception du point suivant. Pour simplifier, les mêmes signes de référence sont utilisés pour le premier et le deuxième mode de réalisation.A second embodiment will now be presented in relation to the figure 15 . This embodiment is identical to the first embodiment, except for the following point. For simplicity, the same reference signs are used for the first and the second embodiment.

Dans ce deuxième mode de réalisation, la colonnette 120 est agencée comme dans le premier mode de réalisation à l'exception de son extrémité. Par conséquent, le passage de fixation 212 formé dans le corps 210 présente une forme adaptée pour la forme spécifique qu'a la colonnette 120 dans ce mode de réalisation.In this second embodiment, the column 120 is arranged as in the first embodiment except for its end. Consequently, the fixing passage 212 formed in the body 210 has a shape adapted for the specific shape that the pillar 120 has in this embodiment.

Dans ce deuxième mode de réalisation, à l'extrémité 125 de la colonnette 120, la surface de démontage 134 et la surface en retrait 136 présentent un même rayon R2, qui est inférieur au rayon R du premier épaulement 138.In this second embodiment, at the end 125 of the pin 120, the dismantling surface 134 and the recessed surface 136 have the same radius R2, which is less than the radius R of the first shoulder 138.

Le fonctionnement, et notamment les opérations de connexion et de déconnexion des deux connecteurs 100,200 l'un à l'autre sont les mêmes dans ce mode de réalisation que dans le premier mode de réalisation. Cependant, lorsque l'on fait pivoter la colonnette 120 pour la faire passer de la position angulaire de fixation à la position angulaire libérée, la surface en retrait 136 n'a pas à repousser radialement la languette 222, du fait que la surface de démontage 134 et la surface en retrait 136 sont toutes deux des surfaces de même rayon R2.The operation, and in particular the connection and disconnection operations of the two connectors 100,200 to each other are the same in this embodiment as in the first embodiment. However, when the pin 120 is pivoted to move it from the angular position of attachment to the angular position released, the recessed surface 136 does not have to push the tab 222 radially, because the disassembly surface 134 and the recessed surface 136 are both surfaces of the same radius R2.

Quoique la présente invention ait été décrite en se référant à des exemples de réalisation spécifiques, il est évident que différentes modifications et changements peuvent être effectués sur ces exemples sans sortir de la portée générale de l'invention telle que définie par les revendications. Par conséquent, la description et les dessins doivent être considérés dans un sens illustratif plutôt que restrictif.Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications and changes can be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Accordingly, the description and the drawings should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

Claims (14)

  1. A connection assembly (1) including a first connector (100) and a second connector (200), and wherein
    the first connector (100) comprises a post (120) having an axis;
    a body (210) of the second connector (200) comprises a fastening passage (212) for said post, and is arranged to allow the post (120) to penetrate into said fastening passage by moving forward in a fastening direction (X+), until it reaches a fastening position;
    the first connector and the second connector are configured in such a manner that in the fastening position, the post is prevented by an abutment device from moving in a disassembly direction (X-) opposite to the fastening direction (X+); and
    the first connector and the second connector are configured in such a manner that an external action applied solely to the post (120) allows the post to pass from the fastening position to a free position, in which the post is disengaged from the abutment device and can move in translation in the disassembly direction; the connection assembly (1) being characterized in that in fastening position, the post (120) is in a predetermined angular range; and
    the connection assembly (1) further comprises angular returning means, comprising for example a spring (140), configured to return the post (120) into said predetermined angular range relative to the axis of the post, when the post is fastened to a body (110) of the first connector before it is fastened to the second connector (200).
  2. The connection assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the external action includes an application of a torque allowing, when the post (120) is in the fastening position, to cause it to turn it around its axis, and thus to cause it to pass from a fastening angular position until a free angular position different from the fastening angular position.
  3. The connection assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein
    one end (125) of said post has a circumferential surface (132);
    in a first angular sector (S1), the circumferential surface (132) has a recessed surface (136) delimited in front in the fastening direction by a first shoulder (138), the recessed surface (136) being positioned radially recessed relative to the first shoulder (138);
    the abutment device includes a retaining tab (222) secured axially to the second connector; and
    the first and the second connector are configured in such a manner that, when the post is in the fastening position, the retaining tab (222) is positioned radially in front of the recessed surface (136), and is held in front of the first shoulder (138), viewed in the fastening direction.
  4. The connection assembly according to claim 3, wherein
    in a second angular sector (S2), the circumferential surface (132) has a disassembly surface (134) having no shoulder in the fastening direction (X+); the first and the second connector are configured in such a manner that, when the post (120) is in the free position, the retaining tab (222) is positioned radially facing the disassembly surface.
  5. The connection assembly according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the retaining tab (222) is formed integrally with the body of the second connector (210), or is a portion of a retaining part (220) fastened to the body of the second connector (210), said retaining part preferably being a strip portion.
  6. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 5, comprising tab returning means, particularly elastic returning, configured to, in the absence of the post (120), hold the retaining tab (222) in the fastening passage, at the same radial position as the shoulder (138) of the post (120).
  7. The connection assembly according to claim 6, the tab returning means of which consist of the retaining part (220), the retaining tab (222) being formed integrally with the retaining part (220).
  8. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the first connector of which comprises an angular abutment (142), and the post comprises an angular abutment (144), said angular abutments being configured to come into contact when the angular returning means (140) return the post into said predetermined angular range.
  9. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first connector includes axial returning means such as a spring (140) configured, when the post is in the free position, to move the post in the disassembly direction (X-) until a disengaged position in which the post (120), relative to a body (110) of the first connector, is placed behind its axial position in the fastening position, and in which the second connector allows the departure of the post out of its fastening passage, regardless of the angular position of the post.
  10. The connection assembly according to claim 9, in which said angular returning means and said axial returning means consist primarily of the same helical spring (140), configured to act in torsion and in compression.
  11. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first connector includes an axial abutment device (116,130), allowing limiting an axial movement of the post (120) relative to a body (110) of the first connector in the disassembly direction when the post (120) is placed in a guide passage (112) of said body (110) of the first connector (100).
  12. The connection assembly according to claim 11, wherein the axial abutment device (116,130) includes a stop ring (130) positioned around the post, and a shoulder (116) formed on an inner surface of the guide passage (112), the stop ring (130) coming into abutment against the shoulder (116) when the post (120) moves in the disassembly direction.
  13. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12, including separating means configured to elastically separate the first connector relative to the second connector in the fastening direction (X+) when the first connector (100) and the second connector (200) are connected to one another.
  14. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13, in which the external action includes an axial thrust moving the post in the fastening direction.
EP21160337.8A 2020-03-11 2021-03-02 Connection assembly with quick and secure attachment Active EP3879638B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

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FR2002402A FR3108203B1 (en) 2020-03-11 2020-03-11 Quick and secure connection assembly

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US11588272B2 (en) 2023-02-21
CN113394617A (en) 2021-09-14
FR3108203B1 (en) 2023-06-02
US20210288437A1 (en) 2021-09-16
FR3108203A1 (en) 2021-09-17
EP3879638A1 (en) 2021-09-15

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