EP3920338A1 - Electrical contact device - Google Patents
Electrical contact device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3920338A1 EP3920338A1 EP20305593.4A EP20305593A EP3920338A1 EP 3920338 A1 EP3920338 A1 EP 3920338A1 EP 20305593 A EP20305593 A EP 20305593A EP 3920338 A1 EP3920338 A1 EP 3920338A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- electrical
- connector unit
- segments
- unit
- electrical connector
- 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.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 claims description 16
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 claims description 16
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000002788 crimping Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000012777 electrically insulating material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005476 soldering Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 2
- 240000000731 Fagus sylvatica Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000010099 Fagus sylvatica Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007373 indentation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012811 non-conductive material Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- 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
- H01R13/502—Bases; Cases composed of different pieces
- H01R13/506—Bases; Cases composed of different pieces assembled by snap action of the parts
-
- 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
- H01R13/02—Contact members
- H01R13/22—Contacts for co-operating by abutting
- H01R13/24—Contacts for co-operating by abutting resilient; resiliently-mounted
-
- 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
- H01R24/58—Contacts spaced along longitudinal axis of engagement
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R43/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors
- H01R43/20—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors for assembling or disassembling contact members with insulating base, case or sleeve
-
- 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
- H01R13/50—Bases; Cases formed as an integral body
- H01R13/501—Bases; Cases formed as an integral body comprising an integral hinge or a frangible part
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R2201/00—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications
- H01R2201/26—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications for vehicles
Definitions
- the invention relates to a plug unit of an electrical contact device, in particular a plug unit which can be at least partially received in a first part of a two-part device for mechanically connecting a functional unit to a base unit.
- the invention also relates to a corresponding socket assigned to a second part of the two-part device for mechanical connection.
- the mechanical connection of functional units with base units is desirable in areas of application.
- the functional units are often equipped with electrical or electronic components, so that electrical contacting is required in addition to the mechanical connection.
- the electrical or electronic components can include, for example, electrical drives and sensors.
- An example of a functional unit with electrical and electronic components is a headrest of the seat of a motor vehicle, in which sensors or actuators are provided.
- the headrest usually has two holding tubes which are inserted into corresponding guide tubes of the seat.
- a functional unit is first mechanically connected to the base unit and then an electrical connection is established.
- the holding tubes are first pushed into the guide tubes, and then the electrical connections are made.
- the present invention has the object of creating an electrical contact device with a plug unit and a socket corresponding to it, which brings about at least some of the above-mentioned desired properties.
- the invention proposes, according to a first aspect, an electrical plug unit and, according to a second aspect, an associated electrical socket unit.
- These can, for example, each be arranged on a first or second part of a two-part device for the mechanical connection of a functional unit to a base unit in such a way that an electrical connection is established at the same time as the mechanical connection.
- the first part of the two-part device for mechanical connection can, for example, comprise a guide tube of the base unit
- the second part can comprise a holding tube of the functional unit received in the guide tube of the base unit.
- the holding tube can be adjustably received in the guide tube, for example in the longitudinal direction, and can also be releasably fixed in one or more positions.
- the electrical connector unit according to the first aspect has a first portion, which in one end of a tube or a tubular housing can be received.
- the tube or the tubular housing can also be formed by a correspondingly shaped receptacle in an otherwise differently shaped housing.
- a tube or a tubular housing is used below.
- a second section of the electrical connector unit that is not received in the tube or the tubular housing has at least one electrical contact surface which is arranged circumferentially on the outside of the surface of the electrical connector unit and which only extends over part of the circumference of the electrical connector unit.
- the terms circumference or circumferential relate to the circumference on a surface of the electrical connector unit, which essentially represents an extension of the surface of the tube or of the tubular housing.
- the second section can be designed so that it is effectively prevented from being received in the tube or the tubular housing, for example because of a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the tube or the tubular housing, or by a locking mechanism that prevents the second section in the tube or the tubular housing prevented.
- the electrical connector unit also has at least one electrical connection area which is connected to a respective electrical contact surface and to which an electrical line of the functional unit can be connected.
- the at least one electrical connection area is arranged, for example, in the first section of the electrical connector unit, but it is also possible to arrange the at least one electrical connection area in the second section of the electrical connector unit.
- the latter can be the case, for example, when a body of the electrical connector unit is surrounded on the pipe or housing side by a sleeve inserted into the pipe or tubular housing together with the body, which also has an area of the body lying outside the pipe or tubular housing on the outside, in which the connection area is located, and the connection area is not located in the pipe or the tubular housing, for example due to a stop provided on the outside of the sleeve.
- the electrical connector unit has at least two segments that can be folded or pivoted by means of a hinge or a joint parallel to an axis running through the first and second sections of the electrical connector unit, at least one of which has an electrical contact surface and an associated electrical connection area.
- the hinges can in particular be formed by film hinges which are formed together with the segments in an injection molding process.
- the joints can be formed, for example, by one or more pins which are molded onto a respective segment and which engage in corresponding hinge bushings.
- the hinge bushings can also be shaped so that T-shaped pins can be clipped laterally through a slot in the wall of the hinge bushing, the stem of the T-shaped pin lying in a corresponding incision in the wall of the hinge bushing that runs transversely to the slot and is thereby movably mounted about the cross bar of the T-shaped pin.
- contact surfaces can be arranged at the same distance from one end of the second section, or can be arranged at different distances from the end. In the latter case, leading or trailing contacts can be provided in a simple manner.
- the segments can preferably consist of an electrically insulating material which accommodates the electrical contact surface, the associated electrical connection area and, if necessary, an electrical connection between the two.
- the electrically conductive areas of the electrical connector unit can be formed, for example, by stamped parts which are encapsulated with the electrically insulating material, with at least part of the electrical contact surface and the electrical connection area remaining accessible. However, it is also possible to subsequently apply the electrically conductive areas to the segments made of the electrically insulating material or to attach them to them or to connect them to them.
- the segments are lined up next to one another in a first position that is unfolded or pivoted apart.
- the segments In a folded or pivoted second position, the segments form a body of the electrical connector unit that can be partially accommodated in the tube or the tubular housing and on the second section of which the at least one electrical contact surface is arranged on the outside of the circumference.
- the body can, for example, have a substantially cylindrical or rod-shaped, elongated shape. In this case, none of the electrical contact surfaces extends over the entire circumference of the electrical connector unit in the folded or pivoted second position.
- the segments lying on the outside in the unfolded or pivoted apart first position can have locking means which can be brought into locking engagement with one another in the folded or pivoted second position of the segments, and thus hold the segments in this position without external influence.
- the segments can also have guide elements which, in particular, define an axial position of the segments with respect to one another during or after they are folded or pivoted together into the second position.
- the at least one connection area of the electrical connector unit is designed to be connected to an electrical line of the functional unit in a form-fitting or material-fitting manner, for example by crimping, soldering or welding, in particular by ultrasonic welding.
- the size of the connection area and its material are matched to the respective connection method.
- an end region of the second section of the plug unit facing away from the first section tapers towards the end, for example conical, frustoconical, parabolic or parabolic frustum.
- the electrical connector unit has a fixing sleeve which, in the second position of the segments relative to one another, can be pushed onto areas of the segments located in the first section of the connector unit.
- the fixing sleeve can be designed in such a way that it can be locked to one or more of the segments.
- at least one resilient latching element can be provided on the fixing sleeve, which engages in a corresponding terminating piece or a recess in a segment of the electrical connector unit.
- the fixing sleeve can jointly form a notch with corresponding, correspondingly shaped areas of the segments, which, for example, enables the plug unit to be fixed as a whole in the tube or the tubular housing.
- the fixing sleeve can furthermore be designed in such a way that it can only be pushed onto the segments of the plug unit in a specific rotational angle position.
- the fixing sleeve can be received in the tube or the tubular housing together with the regions of the segments located in the first section of the plug units.
- the fixing sleeve of the plug unit has ribs on its outside that run in an essentially axial direction. These ribs can serve, for example, to compensate for tolerances in the outer dimensions of the fixing sleeve and the inner diameter of the tube or the tubular housing, and thus prevent undesired movement of the electrical connector unit in the tube or the tubular housing. For this purpose, the ribs can deform when the electrical connector unit is inserted into the tube or the tubular housing.
- the fixing sleeve of the plug unit has a recess with a corresponding recess on its outside or a bore in the pipe or the tubular housing which can be connected in a latching manner.
- the structure can, for example, comprise an outwardly projecting latching hook which engages in a radial bore in the wall of the tube or of the tubular housing.
- an area located in the first section of the electrical connector unit is set up as a holding or guiding area, which holds and / or guides one or more electrical lines connected to an electrical connection area.
- the fixing sleeve can have at least one clamping element which is shaped in such a way that it interacts with a corresponding holding or guide area of one of the segments and at least axially fixes one or more electrical lines held or guided therein in such a way that strain relief the electrical connection between line and connection area is effected.
- the at least one clamping element can, for example, be pressed radially inward through the pipe or the tubular housing and against one or more electrical lines located in a holding or guide area.
- the clamping element can have grooves or ribs running transversely to a longitudinal extension of the electrical lines, which additionally support the axial fixing of the electrical lines.
- the clamping element can be designed in such a way that it covers the at least one electrical line and thus prevents damage to the insulation of the at least one electrical line when the electrical connector unit is inserted into the pipe or the tubular housing.
- the electrical connector unit has a mechanical coding which defines the rotational angle position of the electrical connector unit in the tube or the tubular housing.
- the mechanical coding can include, for example, an outwardly protruding area on one of the segments or on the fixing sleeve, which engages in a corresponding recess on the tube or the tubular housing.
- An electrical socket unit comprises a fixing piece with an insertion area into which a plug unit according to the first aspect can be inserted.
- the insertion area is preferably designed in such a way that a plug unit inserted therein is completely enclosed around the circumference.
- the fixing piece has at least one receptacle for a socket contact.
- the socket contact has a contact area which points to the insertion area of the fixing piece and can be brought into electrical contact there with a contact surface of the electrical plug unit.
- the at least one receptacle for the socket contact can be set up to position and / or fix the socket contact.
- the socket contact can be designed, for example, as a spring contact that is connected to an electrical line.
- the electrical connection of the socket or spring contact and the electrical line can be made, for example, by crimping, welding or soldering.
- the spring contact can have positioning means and fixing means which determine the position of the spring contact in the receptacle of the fixing piece and fix the spring contact in the receptacle of the fixing piece.
- the socket or spring contact can have a resilient contact area which, when the socket or spring contact is mounted in the fixing piece, points to the insertion area of the fixing piece and can be brought into electrical contact there with a contact surface of the electrical connector unit.
- the receptacles and / or the spring contacts can be designed in such a way that they are at the same distance from a front side of the fixing piece, from which a plug unit can be inserted, or at different distances therefrom. In the latter case, leading or trailing contacts can be provided in a simple manner.
- the electrical socket unit can also comprise a locking piece which can be connected to the fixing piece and which prevents or prevents the at least one socket or spring contact from being released from the receptacle of the fixing piece.
- the locking piece can, for example, have one or more mounting areas that can be received in a form-fitting manner on or in the fixing piece.
- the locking piece can be fixed on the fixing piece by means of one or more latching connections.
- the latching connection can, for example, be arranged on one of the assembly areas.
- the locking piece can also have one or more line guides in which electrical lines can be guided and / or held.
- the socket unit comprises a housing in which the fixing piece and the locking piece can be received.
- the housing can have a recess or opening in which a latching hook of the fixing piece engages and thus fixes the fixing piece in the housing.
- the fixing piece also secures the locking piece in the housing.
- the fixing piece and / or the locking piece as well as the housing can be designed to be connected to one another only in one specific direction.
- the housing can, for example, have a groove, a rib, a slot or a gap, which interacts with a correspondingly shaped area of the fixing piece and / or the locking piece.
- the correspondingly shaped area can also be formed by a line routing, for example by a line routing of the locking piece.
- the shape of the housing and the shape of the fixing piece and / or the locking piece can be selected such that assembly is only possible in a certain direction and position relative to one another.
- one of the edges can be chamfered, and the housing has a correspondingly cooperating filling in one of the corners.
- the case can also be set up to be attachable to the base unit only in a certain position, so that the position of the at least one socket or spring contact with respect to the base unit can be fixed.
- a method for producing an electrical connector unit comprises providing at least two segments which are hingedly or pivotably connected by means of a hinge or a joint, at least one of which has an electrical contact surface and an associated electrical connection area.
- the segments are preferably provided in an unfolded or pivoted first position in which the segments are lined up next to one another. Otherwise, the segments are brought into this first position in an additional step.
- At least one electrical line is connected in an electrically conductive manner to one of the at least one connection areas. If one or more of the segments have a holding or guiding area, the lines are arranged there accordingly.
- the segments are brought from the first position into a second, folded or pivoted position. If locking means are provided on the segments lying on the outside in the first position, they are brought into locking engagement with one another in the second position.
- a fixing sleeve is provided, this can be pushed onto the segments located in the second position in a subsequent step.
- the electrical connector unit can now be pushed into a tube or a tubular housing of a functional unit in order to complete the functional unit.
- a method for producing an electrical socket unit comprises providing a fixing piece with an insertion area into which a plug unit can be inserted, and with at least one receptacle for a socket contact. Then at least one socket contact, which was previously connected to an electrical line, is inserted into a corresponding receptacle and locked in the inserted position.
- the locking can be done by appropriate means on the socket contact which interact with corresponding means of the fixing piece, for example one or more pawls on the socket contact or on the fixing piece, which engage in recesses or projections on the fixing piece or the socket contact.
- the locking can alternatively or additionally take place by connecting a locking piece to the fixing piece, which is designed in such a way that it hinders or prevents loosening of the at least one socket contact.
- the locking can include receiving the fixing piece, possibly with a locking piece connected to it, in a housing.
- the electrical plug unit and the electrical socket unit described above are characterized in that one or more electrical contact surfaces are arranged on their circumference.
- the plug unit and socket unit according to the invention ensure that the contacts of the plug unit and the socket unit that belong to one another are always brought together.
- leading and trailing contacts can be provided in a simple manner, which when separating and / or connecting the socket unit and plug unit during operation, i.e. when voltages or signals are present, a defined sequence of Enable separation or connection of voltages or signals.
- the ability to connect the segments to electrical lines in a folded or pivoted position and only then to shape them into the body of the plug element facilitates the automatic or mechanical contacting in one operation, even with small diameters of the connector element.
- welded connections for electrical contacting for example ultrasonic welding, through which an intermetallic connection between the welding partners is established, the contacting can take place in a particularly small space and the connector element can be kept particularly small.
- Figure 1 shows an exemplary illustration of a segment 102 of an electrical connector unit 100 according to the invention in a perspective view.
- the segment has a first section 104, which can be received in a holding tube, not shown in the figure, and a second section 106, which cannot be received in the holding tube.
- the first section 104 and the second section 106 can have different cross-sectional dimensions and / or through a stop web 108 may be separated from one another in order to prevent the penetration of the second section 106 into the holding tube.
- a contact surface 110 is arranged, which extends only over part of the width of the segment 102, and which with an in the Figure 3 more easily recognizable connection area 112 is connected in an electrically conductive manner.
- the contact surface 110 and the connection region 112 can be formed, for example, by an electrically conductive stamped part, around which the segment 102 is formed from an electrically non-conductive material, for example by an injection molding process. At least the connection area 112 can be designed to contact an electrical line by means of ultrasonic welding. An end region of the segment 102 facing away from the first section 104 tapers towards the end, in the shape of a truncated cone in the figure. In the first section 104 of the segment 102 there is a holding or guiding area 114, which is used to hold or guiding lines electrically connected to the connection area 112.
- a terminating piece 116 is formed, which is connected to an in the Figure 7 resilient locking element 118 shown one in the Figures 6 and 7 shown fixing sleeve cooperates.
- the terminating piece 116 can have a recess 122 in the holding or guide region 114, through which an electrical line (not shown in the figure) can be guided, and in which one in the Figure 7
- the shown clamping element 124 of the fixing sleeve 120 can engage resiliently in order to fix an electrical line guided in the holding or guiding area 114.
- Figure 2 shows an exemplary illustration of four segments 102 of the electrical connector unit 100 according to the invention, arranged next to one another in a first, unfolded or pivoted apart position, in a perspective view.
- the four segments 102 are hingedly or pivotably connected to one another in the area of the stop webs 108 with film hinges 126, so that they can be brought into a second, collapsed or pivoted position and one into Figure 5 form shown elongated body.
- FIG. 11 shows an exemplary illustration of the four segments 102 of the electrical connector unit 100 arranged next to one another in the first position Figure 2 in a top view.
- the connection area 112 of the segments 102 can be seen, which is each electrically connected to a contact surface 110.
- the film hinges 126 which movably connect the segments 102 to one another, can also be seen.
- the holding or guiding area 114 is highlighted by the dashed oval.
- Each of the segments 102 can have a recess 128 on one longitudinal side and a projection 130 on the opposite longitudinal side.
- the projection 130 is only designated with a reference symbol on the left segment 102, and the recess 128 only on the right segment 102.
- a projection 130 of a segment 102 engages in a recess 128 of the adjacent segment 102 in a form-fitting manner and thus additionally secures the segments 102 against displacement transversely to the pivoting or folding axis.
- the recesses 128 and projections 130 also guide the segments 102 when they are folded or pivoted together.
- FIG. 11 shows an exemplary illustration of the four segments 102 of the electrical connector unit 100 arranged next to one another in the first position Figure 2 with connected electrical lines 132 in a perspective view. The remaining elements of the segments 102 are described above and in FIG Figure 4 not provided with reference symbols.
- FIG. 8 shows an exemplary illustration of the four segments 102 of the electrical connector unit 100 from Figure 2 in a second, folded or pivoted position in a perspective view.
- the figure clearly shows how the segments 102 form an elongated body and how the contact surfaces 110 are arranged on the outside of the body on the circumferential side.
- the stop ring which is formed circumferentially by the stop webs and which limits the penetration of the electrical connector unit 100 into a holding tube not shown in the figure, can also be clearly seen.
- the electrical lines 132 are now close to one another and can thus be easily inserted into the holding tube.
- FIG. 8 shows an exemplary illustration of the four segments 102 of the electrical connector unit 100 from Figure 5 with the fixing sleeve 120 pushed on in a perspective view.
- the fixing sleeve 120 secures the segments 102 against unintentional unfolding or pivoting apart, and gives the electrical connector unit 100 mechanical stability.
- a mechanical coding 134 is provided on the fixing sleeve 120, which allows the electrical connector unit 100 to be inserted into a holding tube (not shown in the figure) only in a certain angular position in which the mechanical coding 134 engages in a corresponding recess in the holding tube.
- ribs 136 running in an essentially axial direction, which serve to compensate for tolerances in the outer dimensions of the fixing sleeve 120 and the inner diameter of the holding tube, and thus prevent undesired movement of the electrical connector unit 100 in the holding tube.
- the ribs 136 can deform when the electrical connector unit 100 is inserted into the holding tube.
- the fixing sleeve 120 shown in the figure also has a latching with a corresponding recess or bore in the holding tube connectable structure 138.
- the structure 138 can be arranged on a latching element 118.
- Clamping elements 124 of sleeve 120 can also be seen in the figure, which are shaped such that they interact with a corresponding holding or guide area 114 of one of segments 102 and at least axially fix one or more electrical lines held or guided therein.
- the clamping elements 124 can provide strain relief for the electrical connection between the line and the connection area.
- the figure also shows a notch 140 which extends transversely to a longitudinal axis and which is formed by correspondingly shaped regions of one or more segments 102 and the sleeve 120.
- the notch 140 can serve, for example, to fix the electrical connector unit 100 received in the holding tube, or also for other purposes.
- FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the end of the first section 104 of the electrical connector unit 100 facing away from the second section 106 Figure 6 in a perspective view.
- the interaction of latching elements 118 of the sleeve 120 with end pieces 116 of the segments 102 can be clearly seen, as well as the interaction of clamping elements 124 with electrical lines 132 received in holding or guide areas 114, which cannot be seen in the figure.
- the clamping elements 124 can already press against the electrical lines 132 under a bias. However, it is also possible that the clamping elements 124 are additionally pressed against the electrical lines 132 by the holding tube in which the electrical connector unit can be received.
- the clamping elements 124 can conically run towards one another in order to facilitate the introduction into the holding tube.
- Figure 8 shows an exemplary illustration of an electrical connector unit 100 received in a holding tube 142 in a perspective view.
- This illustration clearly shows how the mechanical coding 134 engages in a corresponding coding notch 144 and fixes the electrical connector unit 100 in the holding tube 142 with respect to its angle of rotation or rotationally.
- a slot 146 which runs transversely to the longitudinal axis of the holding tube 142 and which with the notch 140 of the electrical connector unit 100 corresponds, and a bore 148 into which the latching connectable structure 138 of the electrical connector unit 100 engages.
- FIG 9 shows an exemplary illustration of a socket contact 152 of an electrical socket unit 150 according to the invention in a perspective view.
- the socket contact 152 shown by way of example in the figure is designed as a spring contact which has a contact area 154 bent to form a spring.
- the socket contact 152 also has positioning means 156 and fixing means 158, for example laterally arranged surfaces or rails for positioning the socket contact 152 in a receptacle 162 of a fixing piece 160 or a detent spring which engages in a corresponding recess or behind a corresponding projection of the fixing piece 160 .
- the socket contact 152 also has a connection area 164 for the electrical connection of a line 132, for example a crimping area.
- FIG. 14 shows an exemplary illustration of the socket contact 152 from FIG Figure 9 with electrical line 132 connected thereto in a perspective view.
- the line 132 is connected by crimping to the connecting area 164 designed as a crimping area.
- FIG 11 shows an exemplary representation of a fixing piece 160 of an electrical socket unit 150 according to the invention with socket contacts 152 received therein in a perspective rear view.
- a fixing piece 160 In the center of the fixing piece 160 there is an insertion area 166 into which an electrical connector unit 100 can be inserted.
- the contact areas 154 of the socket contacts 152 In the center of the fixing piece 160 there is an insertion area 166 into which an electrical connector unit 100 can be inserted.
- the contact areas 154 of the socket contacts 152 only one of which can be clearly seen in the view, point to the lead-in area 166 and are freely accessible there.
- the lines 132 connected to the socket contacts 152 are laid around the insertion area 166 and led out laterally from the fixing piece 160 as a bundle. In order to keep the lines 132 out of the lead-in area 166, guide webs or pins can be provided.
- the fixing piece 160 with the socket contacts 152 can form the complete socket unit 150.
- a locking piece 170 is attached to the fixing piece 160, which additionally fixes the socket contacts 152 and can also have a line routing.
- the fastening of the locking piece 170 to the fixing piece 160 can take place by means of a latching connection.
- the fixing piece 160 can, for example, have one or more recesses 168, into which corresponding latching hooks 172 of the locking piece 170 engage.
- Figure 12 shows an exemplary representation of a locking piece 170, connected to the fixing piece 160, of the electrical socket unit 150 according to the invention, with socket contacts 152 received in the fixing piece 160, in a perspective rear view.
- the figure clearly shows how the latching hooks 172 of the locking piece 170 engage in the recesses 168 of the fixing piece 160.
- the fixing piece 160 and the locking piece 170 are shaped in such a way that after they are connected, a body with essentially smooth outer surfaces is formed, which facilitates positioning in a housing.
- the locking piece 170 also has line guides 174 in which the lines 132 connected to the socket contacts 152 are guided.
- FIG. 8 shows an exemplary illustration of the locking piece 170 of the electrical socket unit 150, which is connected to the fixing piece 160 Figure 12 in a perspective front view. This figure clearly shows how the contact areas 154 of the socket contacts 152 protrude into the insertion opening 166 of the fixing piece in order to come into contact there with an inserted plug unit 100.
- Two latching hooks 176 can also be seen, which can be used, for example, to fasten the socket unit 150 in a housing.
- FIG. 8 shows an exemplary illustration of the electrical socket unit 150 accommodated in a housing 180 Figure 13 in a perspective front view.
- the socket unit 150 only the front side, a latching hook 172 and a small area of one side of the fixing piece 160 and a small part of the locking piece 170 can be seen; the rest is covered by the housing 180.
- the latching hook 172 engages in an opening 182 of the housing 180 and thus fixes the socket unit 150 in the housing 180.
- the line guide 174 of the locking piece 170 is guided in a slot 184 of the housing 180; Both elements can also be used to determine the orientation of the socket unit 150 in relation to the housing 180.
- FIG. 11 shows an exemplary illustration of the electrical socket unit 150 accommodated in the housing 180 Figure 14 with the plug unit 100, which is positioned in the insertion position and received in the holding tube 142 Figure 8 .
- the direction of insertion or separation is indicated by the double arrow.
- This figure clearly shows how the plug unit 100, which tapers towards one end, facilitates insertion into the socket unit 150, and corrects any axial offset that may be present if the beech unit 150 is appropriately positioned flexibly.
- the position of the contact surfaces 110 of the plug unit 100 and the contact areas 154 of the socket unit 150 with respect to one another can also be seen clearly.
- the arrangement of the contact surfaces 110 on four sides along the circumference of the plug unit 100 and the corresponding arrangement of four contact areas 154 in the socket unit 150 enable - with appropriate mechanical fixing in the base unit and the functional unit - a reliable allocation and contacting of the respective contact pairs that belong together.
- the cross-sectional shape of the connector unit can also be triangular for three contacts, or correspondingly pentagonal or correspondingly polygonal for a larger number of contacts.
- the flat contact surfaces 110 and contact areas 154 bring about a reliable electrical contact which can also conduct larger currents and is easier to produce compared to contacts that are bent to correspond to the radius of the holding tube 142 and matched to one another.
- FIG 16 shows steps of an exemplary method 200 for producing an electrical connector unit 100 according to the invention.
- step 202 at least two segments 102 which are hingedly or pivotably connected by means of a hinge or a joint are provided, at least one of which has an electrical contact surface 110 and an associated electrical connection area 112 having.
- the segments 102 are either provided in a first, unfolded or pivoted position or, if necessary, brought into such a position in a further step 203.
- at least one electrical line 132 is connected in an electrically conductive manner to one of the at least one connection areas 112.
- step 206 the segments 102 are brought from the first position into a second, collapsed or pivoted together position. If a fixing sleeve 120 is provided, this is pushed on in step 208.
- FIG 17 shows steps of an exemplary method 300 for producing an electrical socket unit 150 according to the invention.
- a fixing piece 160 is provided which has an insertion area 166 into which a plug unit 100 can be inserted and at least one receptacle 162 for a socket contact 152.
- at least one socket contact 152 which was previously connected to an electrical line 132, is inserted into a corresponding receptacle 162, and in step 306 it is locked in the inserted position. If a locking piece 170 is provided, this is connected to the fixing piece 160 in an alternative or additional step 306a.
- the socket contact 152 can therefore also be locked exclusively by the locking piece 170.
- the socket unit 150 can be connected to a bracket or housing 180 in step 308.
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Abstract
Eine elektrische Steckereinheit (100) ist mit einem ersten Abschnitt (104) in einem Ende eines Rohres oder rohrförmigen Gehäuses aufnehmbar. Ein zweiter, nicht in dem Rohr oder rohrförmigen Gehäuse aufgenommener Abschnitt (106) weist mindestens eine umfangsseitig außen an der Oberfläche angeordnete elektrische Kontaktfläche auf, welche mit einem jeweiligen Anschlussbereich verbunden ist, an welchem eine elektrische Leitung (132) anschließbar ist. Die elektrische Steckereinheit (100) weist mindestens zwei mittels eines Scharniers oder eines Gelenks parallel zu einer durch den ersten (104) und den zweiten Abschnitt (106) der elektrischen Steckereinheit (100) verlaufenden Achse klapp- bzw. schwenkbar verbundene Segmente (102) auf, die in einer ersten Position nebeneinander aufgereiht liegen und in einer zweiten Position einen teilweise in dem Rohr oder rohrförmigen Gehäuse aufnehmbaren Korpus bilden. Mindestens eines der Segmente (102) weist eine elektrische Kontaktfläche und einen zugehörigen elektrischen Anschlussbereich auf. Keine der elektrischen Kontaktflächen erstreckt sich in der zweiten Position über den gesamten Umfang der elektrischen Steckereinheit (100).A first section (104) of an electrical connector unit (100) can be received in one end of a tube or tubular housing. A second section (106) not accommodated in the tube or tubular housing has at least one electrical contact surface which is arranged on the circumferential outside on the surface and which is connected to a respective connection area to which an electrical line (132) can be connected. The electrical connector unit (100) has at least two segments (102) that can be folded or pivoted by means of a hinge or a joint parallel to an axis running through the first (104) and the second section (106) of the electrical connector unit (100) which are lined up next to one another in a first position and form a body which can be partially accommodated in the tube or tubular housing in a second position. At least one of the segments (102) has an electrical contact surface and an associated electrical connection area. In the second position, none of the electrical contact surfaces extends over the entire circumference of the electrical plug unit (100).
Description
Die Erfindung betrifft eine Steckereinheit einer elektrischen Kontaktvorrichtung, insbesondere eine in einem ersten Teil einer zweiteiligen Vorrichtung zur mechanischen Verbindung einer Funktionseinheit mit einer Basiseinheit zumindest teilweise aufnehmbaren Steckereinheit. Die Erfindung betrifft außerdem eine entsprechende, einem zweiten Teil der zweiteiligen Vorrichtung zur mechanischen Verbindung zugeordnete Buchse.The invention relates to a plug unit of an electrical contact device, in particular a plug unit which can be at least partially received in a first part of a two-part device for mechanically connecting a functional unit to a base unit. The invention also relates to a corresponding socket assigned to a second part of the two-part device for mechanical connection.
Die mechanische Verbindung von Funktionseinheiten mit Basiseinheiten, insbesondere eine lösbare oder verstellbare mechanische Verbindung, ist in Anwendungsbereichen erwünscht. Häufig sind die Funktionseinheiten mit elektrischen oder elektronischen Komponenten ausgestattet, so dass neben der mechanischen Verbindung eine elektrische Kontaktierung erforderlich ist. Die elektrischen oder elektronischen Komponenten können beispielsweise elektrische Antriebe und Sensoren umfassen.The mechanical connection of functional units with base units, in particular a detachable or adjustable mechanical connection, is desirable in areas of application. The functional units are often equipped with electrical or electronic components, so that electrical contacting is required in addition to the mechanical connection. The electrical or electronic components can include, for example, electrical drives and sensors.
Ein Beispiel für eine Funktionseinheit mit elektrischen und elektronischen Komponenten ist eine Kopfstütze des Sitzes eines Kraftfahrzeugs, in welcher Sensoren oder Aktoren vorgesehen sind. Die Kopfstütze weist üblicherweise zwei Halterohre auf, welche in entsprechende Führungsrohre des Sitzes eingeführt werden.An example of a functional unit with electrical and electronic components is a headrest of the seat of a motor vehicle, in which sensors or actuators are provided. The headrest usually has two holding tubes which are inserted into corresponding guide tubes of the seat.
Üblicherweise wird eine Funktionseinheit zunächst mechanisch mit der Basiseinheit verbunden und anschließend eine elektrische Verbindung hergestellt. Bei der beispielhaften Kopfstütze werden also zunächst die Halterohre die Führungsrohre geschoben, und anschließend werden die elektrischen Verbindungen hergestellt.Usually, a functional unit is first mechanically connected to the base unit and then an electrical connection is established. In the case of the exemplary headrest, the holding tubes are first pushed into the guide tubes, and then the electrical connections are made.
Um die Anzahl der Montageschritte zu reduzieren, ist es wünschenswert, die mechanische Verbindung der Funktionseinheit und der Basiseinheit zugleich mit der elektrischen Verbindung in einem Arbeitsschritt ausführen zu können. Zu diesem Zweck ist es bekannt, die mechanisch miteinander zu verbindenden Teile mit entsprechenden Steckern bzw. Buchsen zu versehen, welche bei der mechanischen Verbindung zugleich eine elektrische Verbindung herstellen. Insbesondere bei kleinen zur Verfügung stehenden Bauräumen der mechanisch miteinander zu verbindenden Teile, oder bei mechanischen Verbindungen, die eine vergleichsweise große Toleranz bezüglich ihrer Ausrichtung zueinander bei der Montage aufweisen und dennoch eine zuverlässige elektrische Kontaktierung sicherstellen müssen, besteht der Wunsch nach einer neuen Lösung, insbesondere nach einer neuen Lösung, welche eine Vielzahl von elektrischen Kontakten auf begrenztem Raum bereitstellen kann.In order to reduce the number of assembly steps, it is desirable to have the mechanical connection of the functional unit and the base unit at the same time as the electrical connection in one work step to be able to perform. For this purpose it is known to provide the parts to be mechanically connected to one another with corresponding plugs or sockets which at the same time establish an electrical connection during the mechanical connection. There is a desire for a new solution, in particular when there are small installation spaces available for the parts to be mechanically connected to one another, or with mechanical connections that have a comparatively large tolerance with regard to their alignment to one another during assembly and still have to ensure reliable electrical contacting for a new solution that can provide a large number of electrical contacts in a limited space.
Hiervon ausgehend hat die vorliegende Erfindung die Aufgabe, eine elektrische Kontaktvorrichtung mit einer Steckereinheit und einer damit korrespondierenden Buchse zu schaffen, welche zumindest einige der vorstehend genannten erwünschten Eigenschaften mit sich bringt.Proceeding from this, the present invention has the object of creating an electrical contact device with a plug unit and a socket corresponding to it, which brings about at least some of the above-mentioned desired properties.
Zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe schlägt die Erfindung nach einem ersten Aspekt eine elektrische Steckereinheit und nach einem zweiten Aspekt eine zugehörige elektrische Buchseneinheit vor. Diese können bspw. jeweils an einem ersten bzw. zweiten Teil einer zweiteiligen Vorrichtung zur mechanischen Verbindung einer Funktionseinheit mit einer Basiseinheit so angeordnet sein, dass zugleich mit der mechanischen Verbindung eine elektrische Verbindung hergestellt wird. Der erste Teil der zweiteiligen Vorrichtung zur mechanischen Verbindung kann beispielsweise ein Führungsrohr der Basiseinheit umfassen, und der zweite Teil kann ein in dem Führungsrohr der Basiseinheit aufgenommenes Halterohr der Funktionseinheit umfassen. Das Halterohr kann in den Führungsrohr verstellbar aufgenommen sein, beispielsweise in Längsrichtung, und kann auch in einer oder mehreren Positionen lösbar fixiert sein.To achieve this object, the invention proposes, according to a first aspect, an electrical plug unit and, according to a second aspect, an associated electrical socket unit. These can, for example, each be arranged on a first or second part of a two-part device for the mechanical connection of a functional unit to a base unit in such a way that an electrical connection is established at the same time as the mechanical connection. The first part of the two-part device for mechanical connection can, for example, comprise a guide tube of the base unit, and the second part can comprise a holding tube of the functional unit received in the guide tube of the base unit. The holding tube can be adjustably received in the guide tube, for example in the longitudinal direction, and can also be releasably fixed in one or more positions.
Die elektrische Steckereinheit gemäß dem ersten Aspekt weist einen ersten Abschnitt auf, welcher in einem Ende eines Rohres oder eines rohrförmigen Gehäuses aufnehmbar ist. Das Rohr oder das rohrförmige Gehäuse kann auch durch eine entsprechend geformte Aufnahme in einem ansonsten anders geformten Gehäuse gebildet sein. Der Einfachheit halber wird im Folgenden von einem Rohr oder einem rohrförmigen Gehäuse gesprochen. Ein zweiter, nicht in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse aufgenommener Abschnitt der elektrischen Steckereinheit weist mindestens eine umfangsseitig außen an der Oberfläche der elektrischen Steckereinheit angeordnete elektrische Kontaktfläche auf, welche sich lediglich über einen Teil des Umfangs der elektrischen Steckereinheit erstreckt. Die Begriffe Umfang bzw. umfangsseitig beziehen sich auf den Umfang an einer Oberfläche der elektrischen Steckereinheit, welche im Wesentlichen eine Verlängerung der Oberfläche des Rohres oder des rohrförmigen Gehäuses darstellt. Der zweite Abschnitt kann so ausgestaltet sein, dass dessen Aufnahme in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse effektiv verhindert ist, bspw. wegen eines Durchmessers, der größer ist als der Durchmesser des Rohres oder des rohrförmigen Gehäuses, oder durch einen Sperrmechanismus, der ein Eindringen des zweiten Abschnitts in das Rohr oder das rohrförmige Gehäuse verhindert.The electrical connector unit according to the first aspect has a first portion, which in one end of a tube or a tubular housing can be received. The tube or the tubular housing can also be formed by a correspondingly shaped receptacle in an otherwise differently shaped housing. For the sake of simplicity, a tube or a tubular housing is used below. A second section of the electrical connector unit that is not received in the tube or the tubular housing has at least one electrical contact surface which is arranged circumferentially on the outside of the surface of the electrical connector unit and which only extends over part of the circumference of the electrical connector unit. The terms circumference or circumferential relate to the circumference on a surface of the electrical connector unit, which essentially represents an extension of the surface of the tube or of the tubular housing. The second section can be designed so that it is effectively prevented from being received in the tube or the tubular housing, for example because of a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the tube or the tubular housing, or by a locking mechanism that prevents the second section in the tube or the tubular housing prevented.
Die elektrische Steckereinheit weist außerdem mindestens einen mit einer jeweiligen elektrischen Kontaktfläche verbundenen elektrischen Anschlussbereich auf, an welchem eine elektrische Leitung der Funktionseinheit anschließbar ist. Der mindestens eine elektrische Anschlussbereich ist beispielsweise in dem ersten Abschnitt der elektrischen Steckereinheit angeordnet, es ist jedoch auch möglich, den mindestens einen elektrischen Anschlussbereich in dem zweiten Abschnitt der elektrischen Steckereinheit anzuordnen. Letzteres kann bspw. der Fall sein, wenn ein Korpus der elektrischen Steckereinheit rohr- oder gehäuseseitig von einer zusammen mit dem Korpus in das Rohr oder das rohrförmige Gehäuse eingeführten Hülse umgeben ist, welche auch einen außerhalb des Rohres oder des rohrförmigen Gehäuses liegenden Bereich des Korpus außen umschließt, in welchem der Anschlussbereich liegt, und der Anschlussbereich bspw. durch einen außen an der Hülse vorgesehenen Anschlag nicht in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse liegt.The electrical connector unit also has at least one electrical connection area which is connected to a respective electrical contact surface and to which an electrical line of the functional unit can be connected. The at least one electrical connection area is arranged, for example, in the first section of the electrical connector unit, but it is also possible to arrange the at least one electrical connection area in the second section of the electrical connector unit. The latter can be the case, for example, when a body of the electrical connector unit is surrounded on the pipe or housing side by a sleeve inserted into the pipe or tubular housing together with the body, which also has an area of the body lying outside the pipe or tubular housing on the outside, in which the connection area is located, and the connection area is not located in the pipe or the tubular housing, for example due to a stop provided on the outside of the sleeve.
Die elektrische Steckereinheit weist mindestens zwei mittels eines Scharniers oder eines Gelenks parallel zu einer durch den ersten und den zweiten Abschnitt der elektrischen Steckereinheit verlaufenden Achse klappbar bzw. schwenkbar verbundene Segmente auf, von denen mindestens eines eine elektrische Kontaktfläche und einen zugehörigen elektrischen Anschlussbereich aufweist. Die Scharniere können insbesondere durch Filmscharniere gebildet sein, welche in einem Spritzgießvorgang zusammen mit den Segmenten geformt werden. Die Gelenke können bspw. durch einen oder mehrere an ein jeweiliges Segment angeformte Zapfen gebildet sein, welche in entsprechende Scharnierbuchsen eingreifen. Die Scharnierbuchsen können dabei auch so geformt sein, dass T-förmige Zapfen seitlich durch einen Schlitz in der Wand der Scharnierbuchse eingeclipst werden können, wobei der Stiel des T-förmigen Zapfens in einem entsprechenden, quer zu dem Schlitz laufenden Einschnitt der Wand der Scharnierbuchse liegt und dadurch um den Querbalken des T-förmigen Zapfens beweglich gelagert ist.The electrical connector unit has at least two segments that can be folded or pivoted by means of a hinge or a joint parallel to an axis running through the first and second sections of the electrical connector unit, at least one of which has an electrical contact surface and an associated electrical connection area. The hinges can in particular be formed by film hinges which are formed together with the segments in an injection molding process. The joints can be formed, for example, by one or more pins which are molded onto a respective segment and which engage in corresponding hinge bushings. The hinge bushings can also be shaped so that T-shaped pins can be clipped laterally through a slot in the wall of the hinge bushing, the stem of the T-shaped pin lying in a corresponding incision in the wall of the hinge bushing that runs transversely to the slot and is thereby movably mounted about the cross bar of the T-shaped pin.
Falls mehrere Kontaktflächen vorgesehen sind, können diese von einem Ende des zweiten Abschnitts gleich weit entfernt angeordnet sein, oder in unterschiedlichen Entfernungen von dem Ende angeordnet sein. In letzterem Fall lassen sich so auf einfache Weise vor- oder nacheilende Kontakte bereitstellen.If several contact surfaces are provided, they can be arranged at the same distance from one end of the second section, or can be arranged at different distances from the end. In the latter case, leading or trailing contacts can be provided in a simple manner.
Die Segmente können vorzugsweise aus einem elektrisch isolierenden Material bestehen, welches die elektrische Kontaktfläche, den zugehörigen elektrischen Anschlussbereich sowie gegebenenfalls eine elektrische Verbindung zwischen den beiden aufnimmt. Die elektrisch leitenden Bereiche der elektrischen Steckereinheit können beispielsweise von Stanzteilen gebildet sein, welche mit dem elektrisch isolierenden Material umspritzt sind, wobei zumindest ein Teil der elektrischen Kontaktfläche und des elektrischen Anschlussbereichs zugänglich bleiben. Es ist jedoch auch möglich, die elektrisch leitenden Bereiche nachträglich auf die aus dem elektrisch isolierenden Material bestehenden Segmente aufzubringen bzw. diese daran anzubringen oder damit zu verbinden.The segments can preferably consist of an electrically insulating material which accommodates the electrical contact surface, the associated electrical connection area and, if necessary, an electrical connection between the two. The electrically conductive areas of the electrical connector unit can be formed, for example, by stamped parts which are encapsulated with the electrically insulating material, with at least part of the electrical contact surface and the electrical connection area remaining accessible. However, it is also possible to subsequently apply the electrically conductive areas to the segments made of the electrically insulating material or to attach them to them or to connect them to them.
Die Segmente liegen in einer auseinandergeklappten bzw. auseinandergeschwenkten ersten Position nebeneinander aufgereiht. In einer zusammengeklappten bzw. zusammengeschwenkten zweiten Position bilden die Segmente einen teilweise in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse aufnehmbaren Korpus der elektrischen Steckereinheit, an dessen zweitem Abschnitt die mindestens eine elektrische Kontaktfläche umfangsseitig außen angeordnet ist. Der Korpus kann beispielsweise eine im Wesentlichen zylindrische oder stabförmige, längliche Gestalt aufweisen. Dabei erstreckt sich keine der elektrischen Kontaktflächen in der zusammengeklappten bzw. zusammengeschwenkten zweiten Position über den gesamten Umfang der elektrischen Steckereinheit.The segments are lined up next to one another in a first position that is unfolded or pivoted apart. In a folded or pivoted second position, the segments form a body of the electrical connector unit that can be partially accommodated in the tube or the tubular housing and on the second section of which the at least one electrical contact surface is arranged on the outside of the circumference. The body can, for example, have a substantially cylindrical or rod-shaped, elongated shape. In this case, none of the electrical contact surfaces extends over the entire circumference of the electrical connector unit in the folded or pivoted second position.
Die in der auseinandergeklappten bzw. auseinandergeschwenkten ersten Position außen liegenden Segmente können Verriegelungsmittel aufweisen, welche in der zusammengeklappten bzw. zusammengeschwenkten zweiten Position der Segmente miteinander in verriegelnden Eingriff gebracht werden können, und so die Segmente ohne äußere Einwirkung in dieser Position halten.The segments lying on the outside in the unfolded or pivoted apart first position can have locking means which can be brought into locking engagement with one another in the folded or pivoted second position of the segments, and thus hold the segments in this position without external influence.
Die Segmente können außerdem Führungselemente aufweisen, welche insbesondere eine axiale Lage der Segmente zueinander bei oder nach dem Zusammenklappen oder Zusammenschwenken in die zweite Position festlegen.The segments can also have guide elements which, in particular, define an axial position of the segments with respect to one another during or after they are folded or pivoted together into the second position.
Bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen ist der mindestens eine Anschlussbereich der elektrischen Steckereinheit dazu eingerichtet, mit einer elektrischen Leitung der Funktionseinheit form- oder stoffschlüssig verbunden zu werden, bspw. durch Crimpen, Löten oder Schweißen, insbesondere durch Ultraschall-Schweißen. Die Größe des Anschlussbereichs sowie dessen Material sind dabei auf das jeweilige Verbindungsverfahren abgestimmt.In one or more configurations, the at least one connection area of the electrical connector unit is designed to be connected to an electrical line of the functional unit in a form-fitting or material-fitting manner, for example by crimping, soldering or welding, in particular by ultrasonic welding. The size of the connection area and its material are matched to the respective connection method.
Bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen verjüngt sich ein von dem ersten Abschnitt abgewandter Endbereich des zweiten Abschnitts der Steckereinheit zum Ende hin, bspw. konisch, kegelstumpfförmig, parabelförmig oder parabelstumpfförmig. Hierdurch ist das Einführen der elektrischen Steckereinheit in eine Buchse erleichtert, und bei entsprechender Lagerung der Buchse können Toleranzen bezüglich der Ausrichtung von Steckereinheit und Buchse zueinander ausgeglichen werden.In one or more configurations, an end region of the second section of the plug unit facing away from the first section tapers towards the end, for example conical, frustoconical, parabolic or parabolic frustum. This makes it easier to introduce the electrical plug unit into a socket, and with appropriate mounting of the socket, tolerances with regard to the alignment of the plug unit and socket with respect to one another can be compensated for.
Bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen weist die elektrische Steckereinheit eine Fixierhülse auf, die in der zweiten Position der Segmente zueinander auf im ersten Abschnitt der Steckereinheit liegende Bereiche der Segmente aufschiebbar ist. Die Fixierhülse kann so ausgestaltet sein, dass sie mit einem oder mehreren der Segmente verrastbar ist. Hierzu kann mindestens ein federndes Rastelement an der Fixierhülse vorgesehen sein, welches in ein entsprechendes Abschlussstück oder eine Aussparung eines Segments der elektrischen Steckereinheit eingreift. Alternativ oder zusätzlich kann die Fixierhülse mit korrespondierenden, entsprechend ausgeformten Bereichen der Segmente gemeinsam eine Kerbe bilden, die bspw. eine Festlegung der Steckereinheit als Ganzes in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse ermöglicht. Die Fixierhülse kann ferner so ausgestaltet sein, dass sie nur in einer bestimmten Drehwinkelposition auf die Segmente der Steckereinheit aufschiebbar ist. Die Fixierhülse ist zusammen mit den im ersten Abschnitt der Steckereinheiten liegenden Bereichen der Segmente in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse aufnehmbar.In one or more configurations, the electrical connector unit has a fixing sleeve which, in the second position of the segments relative to one another, can be pushed onto areas of the segments located in the first section of the connector unit. The fixing sleeve can be designed in such a way that it can be locked to one or more of the segments. For this purpose, at least one resilient latching element can be provided on the fixing sleeve, which engages in a corresponding terminating piece or a recess in a segment of the electrical connector unit. Alternatively or additionally, the fixing sleeve can jointly form a notch with corresponding, correspondingly shaped areas of the segments, which, for example, enables the plug unit to be fixed as a whole in the tube or the tubular housing. The fixing sleeve can furthermore be designed in such a way that it can only be pushed onto the segments of the plug unit in a specific rotational angle position. The fixing sleeve can be received in the tube or the tubular housing together with the regions of the segments located in the first section of the plug units.
Bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen weist die Fixierhülse der Steckereinheit an ihrer Außenseite in im Wesentlichen axialer Richtung verlaufende Rippen auf. Diese Rippen können bspw. dazu dienen, Toleranzen der Außenabmessungen der Fixierhülse und des Innendurchmessers des Rohres oder des rohrförmigen Gehäuses auszugleichen, und so eine unerwünschte Bewegung der elektrischen Steckereinheit in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse zu verhindern. Die Rippen können sich dazu bei dem Einführen der elektrischen Steckereinheit in das Rohr oder das rohrförmige Gehäuse verformen.In one or more refinements, the fixing sleeve of the plug unit has ribs on its outside that run in an essentially axial direction. These ribs can serve, for example, to compensate for tolerances in the outer dimensions of the fixing sleeve and the inner diameter of the tube or the tubular housing, and thus prevent undesired movement of the electrical connector unit in the tube or the tubular housing. For this purpose, the ribs can deform when the electrical connector unit is inserted into the tube or the tubular housing.
Bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen weist die Fixierhülse der Steckereinheit an ihrer Außenseite eine mit einer entsprechenden Aussparung oder Bohrung in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse rastend verbindbare Struktur auf. Die Struktur kann beispielsweise einen nach außen ragenden Rasthaken umfassen, welche in eine radiale Bohrung in der Wand des Rohres oder des rohrförmigen Gehäuses eingreift.In one or more configurations, the fixing sleeve of the plug unit has a recess with a corresponding recess on its outside or a bore in the pipe or the tubular housing which can be connected in a latching manner. The structure can, for example, comprise an outwardly projecting latching hook which engages in a radial bore in the wall of the tube or of the tubular housing.
Bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen ist ein in dem ersten Abschnitt der elektrischen Steckereinheit liegender Bereich mindestens eines der Segmente als Halte- oder Führungsbereich eingerichtet, welcher eine oder mehrere mit einem elektrischen Anschlussbereich verbundene elektrische Leitungen hält und/oder führt. Zusätzlich kann die Fixierhülse bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen mindestens ein Klemmelement aufweisen, welcher so ausgeformt ist, dass er mit einem entsprechenden Halte- oder Führungsbereich eines der Segmente zusammenwirkt und eine oder mehrere darin gehaltene oder geführte elektrischen Leitungen so zumindest axial festlegt, dass eine Zugentlastung der elektrischen Verbindung von Leitung und Anschlussbereich bewirkt wird. Das mindestens eine Klemmelement kann beispielsweise durch das Rohr oder das rohrförmige Gehäuse radial nach innen und gegen eine oder mehrere in einem Halte- oder Führungsbereich liegende elektrische Leitungen gedrückt werden. Zusätzlich kann das Klemmelement quer zu einer Längserstreckung der elektrischen Leitungen verlaufende Rillen oder Rippen aufweisen, welche axiale Fixierung der elektrischen Leitungen noch zusätzlich unterstützen. Das Klemmelement kann dabei so gestaltet sein, dass es die mindestens eine elektrische Leitung überdeckt und so eine Beschädigung der Isolierung der mindestens einen elektrischen Leitung beim Einführen der elektrischen Steckereinheit in das Rohr oder das rohrförmige Gehäuse verhindert.In one or more configurations, an area located in the first section of the electrical connector unit is set up as a holding or guiding area, which holds and / or guides one or more electrical lines connected to an electrical connection area. In addition, in one or more configurations, the fixing sleeve can have at least one clamping element which is shaped in such a way that it interacts with a corresponding holding or guide area of one of the segments and at least axially fixes one or more electrical lines held or guided therein in such a way that strain relief the electrical connection between line and connection area is effected. The at least one clamping element can, for example, be pressed radially inward through the pipe or the tubular housing and against one or more electrical lines located in a holding or guide area. In addition, the clamping element can have grooves or ribs running transversely to a longitudinal extension of the electrical lines, which additionally support the axial fixing of the electrical lines. The clamping element can be designed in such a way that it covers the at least one electrical line and thus prevents damage to the insulation of the at least one electrical line when the electrical connector unit is inserted into the pipe or the tubular housing.
Bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen weist die elektrische Steckereinheit eine mechanische Kodierung auf, welche die Drehwinkelposition der elektrischen Steckereinheit in dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse festlegt. Die mechanische Kodierung kann beispielsweise einen nach außen vorspringenden Bereich an einem der Segmente oder an der Fixierhülse umfassen, welcher in eine entsprechende Aussparung an dem Rohr oder dem rohrförmigen Gehäuse eingreift.In one or more refinements, the electrical connector unit has a mechanical coding which defines the rotational angle position of the electrical connector unit in the tube or the tubular housing. The mechanical coding can include, for example, an outwardly protruding area on one of the segments or on the fixing sleeve, which engages in a corresponding recess on the tube or the tubular housing.
Eine elektrische Buchseneinheit gemäß dem zweiten Aspekt der Erfindung umfasst ein Fixierstück mit einem Einführungsbereich, in welchen eine Steckereinheit gemäß dem ersten Aspekt einführbar ist. Der Einführungsbereich ist vorzugsweise so ausgeführt, dass eine darin eingeführter Steckereinheit umfangsmäßig vollständig umschlossen ist. Es ist jedoch auch möglich, das Fixierstück mit einem radialen Schlitz zu versehen, bspw. um Toleranzen der Abmessungen der darin aufzunehmenden Steckereinheit ausgleichen zu können oder Steckereinheiten mit unterschiedlichen Durchmessern aufzunehmen. Das Fixierstück weist mindestens eine Aufnahme für einen Buchsenkontakt auf. Der Buchsenkontakt weist einen Kontaktbereich auf, welcher zu dem Einführungsbereich des Fixierstücks weist und dort in elektrischen Kontakt mit einer Kontaktfläche der elektrischen Steckereinheit bringbar ist. Die mindestens eine Aufnahme für den Buchsenkontakt kann dazu eingerichtet sein, den Buchsenkontakt zu positionieren und/oder festzulegen.An electrical socket unit according to the second aspect of the invention comprises a fixing piece with an insertion area into which a plug unit according to the first aspect can be inserted. The insertion area is preferably designed in such a way that a plug unit inserted therein is completely enclosed around the circumference. However, it is also possible to provide the fixing piece with a radial slot, for example in order to be able to compensate for tolerances in the dimensions of the connector unit to be received therein or to accommodate connector units with different diameters. The fixing piece has at least one receptacle for a socket contact. The socket contact has a contact area which points to the insertion area of the fixing piece and can be brought into electrical contact there with a contact surface of the electrical plug unit. The at least one receptacle for the socket contact can be set up to position and / or fix the socket contact.
Der Buchsenkontakt kann beispielsweise als Federkontakt ausgeführt sein, der mit einer elektrischen Leitung verbunden ist. Die elektrische Verbindung von Buchsen- bzw. Federkontakt und elektrischer Leitung kann bspw. durch Crimpen, Schweißen oder Löten erfolgen. Der Federkontakt kann Positioniermittel und Festlegungsmittel aufweisen, welche die Lage des Federkontakts in der Aufnahme des Fixierstücks bestimmen und den Federkontakt in der Aufnahme des Fixierstücks festlegen. Der Buchsen- bzw. Federkontakt kann einen federnden Kontaktbereich aufweisen, welcher bei in dem Fixierstück montiertem Buchsen- bzw. Federkontakt zum Einführungsbereich des Fixierstücks weist und dort in elektrischen Kontakt mit einer Kontaktfläche der elektrischen Steckereinheit bringbar ist.The socket contact can be designed, for example, as a spring contact that is connected to an electrical line. The electrical connection of the socket or spring contact and the electrical line can be made, for example, by crimping, welding or soldering. The spring contact can have positioning means and fixing means which determine the position of the spring contact in the receptacle of the fixing piece and fix the spring contact in the receptacle of the fixing piece. The socket or spring contact can have a resilient contact area which, when the socket or spring contact is mounted in the fixing piece, points to the insertion area of the fixing piece and can be brought into electrical contact there with a contact surface of the electrical connector unit.
Die Aufnahmen und/oder die Federkontakte können so gestaltet sein, dass sie in gleicher Entfernung zu einer vorderen Seite des Fixierstücks liegen, von der eine Steckereinheit einführbar ist, oder in unterschiedlichen Entfernungen dazu. In letzterem Fall lassen sich so auf einfache Weise vor- oder nacheilende Kontakte bereitstellen.The receptacles and / or the spring contacts can be designed in such a way that they are at the same distance from a front side of the fixing piece, from which a plug unit can be inserted, or at different distances therefrom. In the latter case, leading or trailing contacts can be provided in a simple manner.
Die elektrische Buchseneinheit kann außerdem ein mit dem Fixierstück verbindbares Verriegelungsstück umfassen, welches ein Lösen des mindestens einen Buchsen- bzw. Federkontakts aus der Aufnahme des Fixierstücks be- oder verhindert. Das Verriegelungsstück kann bspw. einen oder mehrere formschlüssig an oder in dem Fixierstück aufnehmbare Montagebereiche aufweisen. Bei einer oder mehreren Ausgestaltungen ist das Verriegelungsstück durch eine oder mehrere Rastverbindungen an dem Fixierstück fixierbar. Die Rastverbindung kann bspw. an einem der Montagebereiche angeordnet sein. Das Verriegelungsstück kann außerdem eine oder mehrere Leitungsführungen aufweisen, in denen elektrische Leitungen geführt und/oder gehalten werden können.The electrical socket unit can also comprise a locking piece which can be connected to the fixing piece and which prevents or prevents the at least one socket or spring contact from being released from the receptacle of the fixing piece. The locking piece can, for example, have one or more mounting areas that can be received in a form-fitting manner on or in the fixing piece. In one or more configurations, the locking piece can be fixed on the fixing piece by means of one or more latching connections. The latching connection can, for example, be arranged on one of the assembly areas. The locking piece can also have one or more line guides in which electrical lines can be guided and / or held.
Bei einer oder mehreren Ausführungen umfasst die Buchseneinheit ein Gehäuse, in welchem das Fixierstück und das Verriegelungsstück aufnehmbar sind. Das Gehäuse kann eine Ausnehmung oder Öffnung aufweisen, in welcher ein Rasthaken des Fixierstücks eingreift und so das Fixierstück in dem Gehäuse festlegt. Das Fixierstück sichert dabei zugleich das Verriegelungsstück in dem Gehäuse.In one or more embodiments, the socket unit comprises a housing in which the fixing piece and the locking piece can be received. The housing can have a recess or opening in which a latching hook of the fixing piece engages and thus fixes the fixing piece in the housing. The fixing piece also secures the locking piece in the housing.
Das Fixierstück und/oder das Verriegelungsstück sowie das Gehäuse können dazu eingerichtet sein, nur in einer bestimmten Richtung miteinander verbunden zu werden. Dazu kann das Gehäuse bspw. eine Rille, eine Rippe, einen Schlitz oder einen Spalt aufweisen, welche bzw. welcher mit einem entsprechend geformten Bereich des Fixierstücks und/oder des Verriegelungsstücks zusammenwirkt. Der entsprechend geformte Bereich kann auch durch eine Leitungsführung gebildet sein, bspw. durch eine Leitungsführung des Verriegelungsstücks. Alternativ oder zusätzlich können die Form des Gehäuses und die Form des Fixierstücks und/oder des Verriegelungsstücks so gewählt sein, dass eine Montage nur in einer bestimmten Richtung und Lage zueinander möglich ist. Bspw. kann bei einem grundsätzlich quadratischen Querschnitt des Fixierstücks und/oder des Verriegelungsstücks eine der Kanten angefast sein, und das Gehäuse weist eine entsprechend kooperierende Füllung in einer der Ecken auf. Das Gehäuse kann außerdem dazu eingerichtet sein, an der Basiseinheit nur in einer bestimmten Position anbringbar zu sein, so dass die Lage des mindestens einen Buchsen- bzw. Federkontakts zu der Basiseinheit festlegbar ist.The fixing piece and / or the locking piece as well as the housing can be designed to be connected to one another only in one specific direction. For this purpose, the housing can, for example, have a groove, a rib, a slot or a gap, which interacts with a correspondingly shaped area of the fixing piece and / or the locking piece. The correspondingly shaped area can also be formed by a line routing, for example by a line routing of the locking piece. Alternatively or in addition, the shape of the housing and the shape of the fixing piece and / or the locking piece can be selected such that assembly is only possible in a certain direction and position relative to one another. For example, in the case of a basically square cross section of the fixing piece and / or the locking piece, one of the edges can be chamfered, and the housing has a correspondingly cooperating filling in one of the corners. The case can also be set up to be attachable to the base unit only in a certain position, so that the position of the at least one socket or spring contact with respect to the base unit can be fixed.
Ein Verfahren zur Herstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckereinheit umfasst das Bereitstellen mindestens zweier mittels eines Scharniers oder eines Gelenks klapp- bzw. schwenkbar verbundener Segmente, von denen mindestens eines eine elektrische Kontaktfläche und einen zugehörigen elektrischen Anschlussbereich aufweist. Die Segmente werden vorzugsweise in einer auseinander geklappten oder geschwenkten ersten Position bereitgestellt, in der die Segmente nebeneinander aufgereiht liegen. Anderenfalls werden die Segmente in einem zusätzlichen Schritt in diese erste Position gebracht.A method for producing an electrical connector unit according to the invention comprises providing at least two segments which are hingedly or pivotably connected by means of a hinge or a joint, at least one of which has an electrical contact surface and an associated electrical connection area. The segments are preferably provided in an unfolded or pivoted first position in which the segments are lined up next to one another. Otherwise, the segments are brought into this first position in an additional step.
In einem weiteren Schritt wird mindestens eine elektrische Leitung mit einem der mindestens einen Anschlussbereiche elektrisch leitend verbunden. Falls ein oder mehrere der Segmente einen Halte- oder Führungsbereich aufweisen, werden die Leitungen dort entsprechend angeordnet.In a further step, at least one electrical line is connected in an electrically conductive manner to one of the at least one connection areas. If one or more of the segments have a holding or guiding area, the lines are arranged there accordingly.
In einem weiteren Schritt werden die Segmente aus der ersten Position in eine zweite, zusammengeklappte oder zusammengeschwenkte Position gebracht. Sofern Verriegelungsmittel an den in der ersten Position außen liegenden Segmenten vorgesehen sind, werden diese in der zweiten Position miteinander in verriegelnden Eingriff gebracht.In a further step, the segments are brought from the first position into a second, folded or pivoted position. If locking means are provided on the segments lying on the outside in the first position, they are brought into locking engagement with one another in the second position.
Sofern eine Fixierhülse vorgesehen ist, kann diese in einem anschließenden Schritt auf die in der zweiten Position befindlichen Segmente aufgeschoben werden.If a fixing sleeve is provided, this can be pushed onto the segments located in the second position in a subsequent step.
Die elektrische Steckereinheit kann nun in ein Rohr oder ein rohrförmiges Gehäuse einer Funktionseinheit eingeschoben werden, um die Funktionseinheit zu komplettieren.The electrical connector unit can now be pushed into a tube or a tubular housing of a functional unit in order to complete the functional unit.
Ein Verfahren zur Herstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Buchseneinheit umfasst das Bereitstellen eines Fixierstücks mit einem Einführungsbereich, in welchen eine Steckereinheit einführbar ist, und mit mindestens einer Aufnahme für einen Buchsenkontakt. Anschließend wird mindestens ein Buchsenkontakt, welcher zuvor mit einer elektrischen Leitung verbunden wurde, in eine entsprechende Aufnahme eingeführt, und in der eingeführten Position verriegelt. Das Verriegeln kann durch entsprechende Mittel an dem Buchsenkontakt erfolgen, welche mit entsprechenden Mitteln des Fixierstücks zusammenwirken, bspw. eine oder mehrere Sperrklinken an dem Buchsenkontakt oder an dem Fixierstück, welche in Aussparungen oder Vorsprünge an dem Fixierstück bzw. dem Buchsenkontakt eingreifen. Das Verriegeln kann alternativ oder zusätzlich durch Verbinden eines Verriegelungsstücks mit dem Fixierstück erfolgen, welches so gestaltet ist, dass es ein Lösen des mindestens einen Buchsenkontakts be- oder verhindert. Alternativ oder zusätzlich kann das Verriegeln das Aufnehmen des Fixierstücks, ggf. mit einem damit verbundenen Verriegelungsstück, in einem Gehäuse umfassen.A method for producing an electrical socket unit according to the invention comprises providing a fixing piece with an insertion area into which a plug unit can be inserted, and with at least one receptacle for a socket contact. Then at least one socket contact, which was previously connected to an electrical line, is inserted into a corresponding receptacle and locked in the inserted position. The locking can be done by appropriate means on the socket contact which interact with corresponding means of the fixing piece, for example one or more pawls on the socket contact or on the fixing piece, which engage in recesses or projections on the fixing piece or the socket contact. The locking can alternatively or additionally take place by connecting a locking piece to the fixing piece, which is designed in such a way that it hinders or prevents loosening of the at least one socket contact. Alternatively or in addition, the locking can include receiving the fixing piece, possibly with a locking piece connected to it, in a housing.
Die vorstehend beschriebene elektrische Steckereinheit und die elektrische Buchseneinheit zeichnen sich dadurch aus, dass ein oder mehrere elektrische Kontaktflächen an deren Umfang angeordnet sind. Insbesondere im Falle mehrerer Kontaktflächen stellen die erfindungsgemäße Steckereinheit und Buchseneinheit sicher, dass stets jeweils die zueinander gehörenden Kontakte der Steckereinheit und der Buchseneinheit zusammengebracht werden. Durch entsprechende Gestaltung und Positionierung der Kontaktflächen der Steckereinheit und der Buchsenkontakte können auf einfache Weise vor- und nacheilende Kontakte bereitgestellt werden, welche beim Trennen und/oder Verbinden von Buchseneinheit und Steckereinheit im laufenden Betrieb, also bei anliegenden Spannungen oder Signalen, eine definierte Abfolge der Trennung oder Verbindung der Spannungen oder Signale ermöglichen.The electrical plug unit and the electrical socket unit described above are characterized in that one or more electrical contact surfaces are arranged on their circumference. In particular in the case of several contact surfaces, the plug unit and socket unit according to the invention ensure that the contacts of the plug unit and the socket unit that belong to one another are always brought together. By appropriate design and positioning of the contact surfaces of the plug unit and the socket contacts, leading and trailing contacts can be provided in a simple manner, which when separating and / or connecting the socket unit and plug unit during operation, i.e. when voltages or signals are present, a defined sequence of Enable separation or connection of voltages or signals.
Die Möglichkeit, die Segmente in einer auseinander geklappten oder geschwenkten Position mit elektrischen Leitungen zu verbinden, und erst dann zu dem Korpus des Steckerelements zu formen, erleichtert die automatische bzw. maschinelle Kontaktierung in einem Arbeitsgang, auch bei kleinen Durchmessern des Steckerelements. Bei Nutzung von Schweißverbindungen für die elektrische Kontaktierung, bspw. Ultraschallschweißen, durch das eine intermetallische Verbindung der Schweißpartner hergestellt wird, kann die Kontaktierung auf besonders kleinem Raum erfolgen, und das Steckerelement besonders klein gehalten werden.The ability to connect the segments to electrical lines in a folded or pivoted position and only then to shape them into the body of the plug element facilitates the automatic or mechanical contacting in one operation, even with small diameters of the connector element. When using welded connections for electrical contacting, for example ultrasonic welding, through which an intermetallic connection between the welding partners is established, the contacting can take place in a particularly small space and the connector element can be kept particularly small.
Nachfolgend wird die Erfindung anhand einer Ausführungsform unter Bezugnahme auf die begleitenden Figuren exemplarisch näher erläutert. Alle Figuren sind rein schematisch und nicht maßstäblich. Es zeigen:
- Fig. 1
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung eines Segments einer erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckereinheit in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,
- Fig. 2
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung vierer in einer ersten Position nebeneinander angeordneter Segmente der erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckereinheit in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,
- Fig. 3
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung der vier in der ersten Position nebeneinander angeordneten Segmente der elektrischen Steckereinheit aus
Figur 2 in einer Draufsicht, - Fig. 4
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung der vier in der ersten Position nebeneinander angeordneten Segmente der elektrischen Steckereinheit aus
Figur 2 mit verbundenen elektrischen Leitungen in einer perspektivischen Ansicht, - Fig. 5
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung der vier Segmente der elektrischen Steckereinheit aus
Figur 2 in einer zweiten, zusammengeklappten bzw. zusammengeschwenkten Position in einer perspektivischen Ansicht, - Fig. 6
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung der vier Segmente der elektrischen Steckereinheit aus
Figur 5 mit aufgeschobener Fixierhülse in einer perspektivischen Ansicht, - Fig. 7
- eine Detailansicht des Endes des ersten Abschnitts der elektrischen Steckereinheit aus
Figur 6 in einer perspektivischen Ansicht, - Fig. 8
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung einer in einem Halterohr aufgenommenen elektrischen Steckereinheit in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,
- Fig. 9
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung eines Buchsenkontakts einer erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Buchseneinheit in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,
- Fig. 10
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung des Buchsenkontakts aus
Figur 9 mit damit verbundener elektrischer Leitung in einer perspektivischen Ansicht, - Fig. 11
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung eines Fixierstücks einer erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Buchseneinheit mit darin aufgenommenen Buchsenkontakten in einer perspektivischen Rückseitenansicht,
- Fig. 12
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung eines mit dem Fixierstück verbundenen Verriegelungsstücks der erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Buchseneinheit, mit in dem Fixierstück aufgenommenen Buchsenkontakten, in einer perspektivischen Rückseitenansicht,
- Fig. 13
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung des mit dem Fixierstück verbundenen Verriegelungsstücks der elektrischen Buchseneinheit aus
Figur 12 in einer perspektivischen Vorderseitenansicht, - Fig. 14
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung der in einem Gehäuse aufgenommenen elektrischen Buchseneinheit aus
Figur 13 in einer perspektivischen Vorderseitenansicht, - Fig. 15
- eine beispielhafte Darstellung der in dem Gehäuse aufgenommenen elektrischen Buchseneinheit aus
Figur 14 mit der dazu in Einführlage positionierten, in dem Halterohr aufgenommenen Steckereinheit ausFigur 8 , - Fig. 16
- Schritte eines exemplarischen Verfahrens zur Herstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckereinheit,
- Fig. 17
- Schritte eines exemplarischen Verfahrens zur Herstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Buchseneinheit.
- Fig. 1
- an exemplary representation of a segment of an electrical connector unit according to the invention in a perspective view,
- Fig. 2
- an exemplary representation of four segments of the electrical connector unit according to the invention, arranged next to one another in a first position, in a perspective view,
- Fig. 3
- an exemplary representation of the four segments of the electrical connector unit arranged next to one another in the first position
Figure 2 in a plan view, - Fig. 4
- an exemplary representation of the four segments of the electrical connector unit arranged next to one another in the first position
Figure 2 with connected electrical lines in a perspective view, - Fig. 5
- an exemplary representation of the four segments of the electrical connector unit
Figure 2 in a second, folded or pivoted position in a perspective view, - Fig. 6
- an exemplary representation of the four segments of the electrical connector unit
Figure 5 with the fixing sleeve pushed on in a perspective view, - Fig. 7
- a detailed view of the end of the first section of the electrical connector unit
Figure 6 in a perspective view, - Fig. 8
- an exemplary representation of an electrical connector unit received in a holding tube in a perspective view,
- Fig. 9
- an exemplary representation of a socket contact of an electrical socket unit according to the invention in a perspective view,
- Fig. 10
- an exemplary representation of the socket contact
Figure 9 with connected electrical line in a perspective view, - Fig. 11
- an exemplary representation of a fixing piece of an electrical socket unit according to the invention with socket contacts received therein in a perspective rear view,
- Fig. 12
- an exemplary representation of a locking piece connected to the fixing piece of the electrical socket unit according to the invention, with socket contacts received in the fixing piece, in a perspective rear view,
- Fig. 13
- an exemplary representation of the locking piece connected to the fixing piece of the electrical socket unit
Figure 12 in a perspective front view, - Fig. 14
- an exemplary illustration of the electrical socket unit accommodated in a housing
Figure 13 in a perspective front view, - Fig. 15
- an exemplary illustration of the electrical socket unit accommodated in the housing
Figure 14 with the connector unit, which is positioned in the insertion position and received in the holding tubeFigure 8 , - Fig. 16
- Steps of an exemplary method for producing an electrical connector unit according to the invention,
- Fig. 17
- Steps of an exemplary method for producing an electrical socket unit according to the invention.
Gleiche oder ähnliche Elemente sind in den Figuren mit gleichen oder ähnlichen Bezugszeichen versehen.The same or similar elements are provided with the same or similar reference symbols in the figures.
Das Fixierstück 160 mit den Buchsenkontakten 152 kann die vollständige Buchseneinheit 150 bilden. Es ist jedoch auch möglich, dass ein Verriegelungsstück 170 an dem Fixierstück 160 angebracht wird, welches die Buchsenkontakte 152 zusätzlich festlegt und auch eine Leitungsführung aufweisen kann. Die Befestigung des Verriegelungsstücks 170 an dem Fixierstück 160 kann mittels einer Rastverbindung erfolgen. Das Fixierstück 160 kann bspw. eine oder mehrere Vertiefungen 168 aufweisen, in welche entsprechende Rasthaken 172 des Verriegelungsstücks 170 eingreifen.The fixing
Wenngleich die Erfindung vorstehend anhand der Verbindung einer Kopfstütze mit einem Fahrzeugsitz beschrieben wurde ist eine Anwendung der Erfindung in anderen Fällen nicht ausgeschlossen, bei denen mechanische Verbindungen zugleich mit elektrischen Verbindungen in einem Arbeitsschritt hergestellt oder gelöst werden sollen.Although the invention has been described above on the basis of the connection of a headrest to a vehicle seat, application of the invention in other cases is not excluded, in which mechanical connections are to be made or released in one work step at the same time as electrical connections.
Claims (14)
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DE102015225007A1 (en) * | 2014-12-12 | 2016-06-16 | Dai-Ichi Seiko Co., Ltd. | connector terminal |
EP3185371A1 (en) * | 2015-12-22 | 2017-06-28 | Biosense Webster (Israel), Ltd. | Connectors having three-dimensional surfaces |
EP3467968A1 (en) * | 2017-10-09 | 2019-04-10 | BAE SYSTEMS plc | Plug assembly |
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