DE10037179A1 - Multiple distribution plug socket has individual plug-in recesses separated from each other in modular manner, joined by linkage joints and pivotable so as to be able to form ring structure - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has several plug-in recesses (4) with standardized contacting devices such as sockets for phase and null conductors and yoke contacts for the earth lead for electrical connection to the electricity supply via a protected contact plug (12). The individual plug-in recesses are separated from each other in a modular manner, joined by linkage joints (3) and pivotable so as to be able to form a ring structure.

Description

The invention describes a multiple distributor socket, which several Insert recesses with standardized contacting devices such as sockets for the phase and the neutral conductor as well as bow contacts for the protective conductor, which has a safety plug and a connecting cable with a Power supply network are electrically connectable, the individual Insert recesses modularly separated from one another and via an articulated connection connected to each other and in an axis perpendicular to the direction of insertion of the plug in a defined area are pivotable against each other, such that a Ring structure with inward or outward insertion recesses can be formed.

In the age of increasing electrification in the home and also on modern workplaces were largely stationary in the corresponding Electrical installations such as B. pure wall sockets often no longer meet the requirements in number. This lack of Inserting possibilities became known through a multitude of different ones Multiple distributor sockets or so-called plug strips remedied. Such Multiple distributor sockets have a socket body, in which several Insert wells with the mandatory standardized contacting elements are arranged.  

The contacting elements are usually in the socket part by two each Phase and the zero conductor leading sockets formed, one edge Strap contact forms the protective conductor.

It goes without saying that the plug parts and sockets functionally on one another are adapted, whereby here, in deviation from the examples described further other country-specific standardized configurations are possible.

The invention is not limited to the field of power supply but can, as can be easily recognized by the person skilled in the art, also on other line-forming Transmission media, such as data cables, audio and video cables, glass fiber or Hoses can be used without introducing any further inventive achievement would.

The power strip is in turn connected to a by means of connection cable and safety plug if necessary, a stationary wall socket can be connected, such that all Cable connections made to the individual sockets of the multiple connector strip can be.

To the spatial expansion of the connector strips with a large number of Up to now, efforts have been made to keep the recesses as small as possible Position the recesses as close as possible to each other. When using relatively narrow "two-contact plugs" (without protective contacts) or at These contact strips are ideal for protective contact plugs with a straight cable outlet suitable, d. H. all plug-in options can largely be used simultaneously become.

The cables of the inserted devices are more or less in a mess around Plug connector arranged which often gives a messy chaotic impression leaves. In addition, the individual plugs are relatively unprotected and can easily be removed from the Socket, also accidentally, be removed. This can be a disadvantage of the known Power strips can be seen.  

By introducing modern chip technologies in various small devices the hi-tech sector, such as B. cell phone, calculating machines, notebooks, clock radio, etc. the power requirement with regard to the operating voltage and power consumption is lower become, whereby one has gone over to the corresponding power supplies externally to provide, d. H. not to integrate them into the respective device, which is a desired Miniaturization of the actual device has been accommodated. The electrical (Safety) requirements of the device itself, which is then only for the Low voltage range is not classified as high. Often are these devices are also equipped with various accumulators, which are in so-called Charging stations can be regenerated.

The external power supplies are essentially designed such that the housing of the Power supply is provided with a plug extension, which in a corresponding socket can be introduced.

The so-called charging stations are often designed in this way, with the difference that here in the receptacles for the batteries are arranged in the housing.

Such external devices, especially those of the high-performance category are to be assigned, in some cases have considerable spatial dimensions, which in addition leads to the use of multiple insertion wells of the multiple distributor sockets or power strips covered by the body of the device, or partially covered become. A certain number of insertion wells is therefore when using such external devices cannot be used.

This can be seen as a further disadvantage of the known connector strips.

The invention described below by way of example Multiple distributor sockets are able to circumvent both of the disadvantages described above.  

According to the invention, each insertion recess is the multiple distributor socket Part of an independent module, which means for articulated connection having. Several modules can be combined to form a larger unit via these joints be put together, the swivel angle and the number of modules so is chosen that a ring structure can be generated.

A special connection module is preferred for connection to a ring structure provided, which also receives the supply cable. This connection module is in its basic form constructed in the same way as a socket module. The Connection module has a slot which in the area of the separation point of the annular structure is open. The boundary surfaces flanking the articulation points of the modules are arranged at an angle such that these stop surfaces on both sides Define the limitation of the swiveling movement of the modules to each other.

Such a multiple distributor socket according to the invention is particularly advantageous at least three modules, particularly preferably six modules, with for example 5 Modules are equipped with insertion recesses and one module as a connection module is designed with the appropriate cable entries and cable entries. It is also possible, as part of a further version, all modules with one Equip insertion recess, the power supply cable in one of the modules is introduced from above, for example.

The abutment flanks flanking the articulation points here have a special one advantageous six-module version at an angle of 60 degrees. The The outline of a module is therefore hexagonal with the articulation points are arranged at diametrically opposite corners of the hexagon.

The insertion openings of the initially present as an elongated structure, from several Modules existing multiple distributor socket, advantageously point into one Direction. There can also be one or more insertion openings in opposite directions Show directions or two diametrically opposite one another Insertion openings can be provided per module.  

Now, "normal" plugs are supposed to be connected to the multiple distribution socket , these can first be plugged into the desired socket modules. The modules are now pivoted so that the Insertion openings respectively. the plugs point inwards, with the ends of the to Touch the ring-shaped plug connector. The cables of the plugs can also go through the slot of the connection module and be put outside, so to speak. The free end of the connection module is flush with the system at the end of the first Socket modules come, they can be fixed with an appropriate device but are releasably connected to one another and the ring structure is fixed.

The plugs are then, so to speak, inside the ring structure, their cables, collected together with the supply cable from a slot-like opening and orderly out of the connection module.

Due to the now greatly reduced inner space of the ring structure, in which the Plug is unintentional pulling out or falling out of the individual Plug largely prevented.

The interior can also be used to accommodate excess cables Cable brake devices e.g. B. in the form of sealing lips in the area of Cable feed-through slot can be provided in the connection module.

A cover spanning at least the central opening area of the ring structure can also optically shield the connector and possibly an approximately circular one form a visually appealing decor.

If large-volume power supplies or the like are to be used, the ring structure will be like this formed that the insertion openings point outwards. The connection of the ring ends is same as in the previously described embodiment. The insertion axes of the Insert recesses then point apart at an angle of 60 degrees, the  Plug-in openings are spaced such that even large plug-in power supplies or the like. cannot cover any other insertion opening.

So-called plastic joints, which consist of, can be provided as joints rubber-like strips are formed or are molded directly onto the module body (Film hinges). Bearing eyes with corresponding hinge pins can also be used Find use.

The electrical connection of the individual modules is made by cables, which in the Joint area, protected by grommets.

The invention will now be illustrated by way of example and schematically illustrated embodiments explained in more detail, these in no way as Restriction are to be understood, but only a possible design within the framework of claim 1 and the further subclaims.

Functionally identical parts are the same in the different versions Designated reference numbers.

Show it:

Fig. 1 is a perspective overall view of an outlet manifold in a stretched form,

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a single module together with the plastic hinge parts,

Fig. 3 is a partial section through a grommet,

Fig. 4 is a perspective overall view of the multiple distributor socket of FIG. 1 in a first annular arrangement,

Fig. 5 is a perspective overall view of the multiple distributor socket of FIG. 1 in a second annular arrangement,

Fig. 6 shows an enlarged detail of the connection area gem. Fig. 5,

Fig. 7 shows another embodiment of a compound with spring-loaded sliding elements in a ready position for connection,

Fig. 8 is a representation acc. Fig. 7 in a locked position,

Fig. With the locking elements of the locking spring shown separately 9,

Fig. 10 shows a further possibility of a detachable connection of module parts in schematic longitudinal section in the ready position for combining,

Fig. 11 is an illustration. Fig. 15 in the connected position,

Fig. 12 is an annular arrangement of FIG. 4, partially lifted with double-sided cover,

Fig. 13 shows another embodiment of the cover. Fig. 10 in the closed state,

Fig. 14 is an illustration acc. Fig 11 is lifted with the lower cover.,

Fig. 15 is a partial perspective view of a manifold outlet according to the invention in a second embodiment,

Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a single module together with the joint parts,

Fig. 17 is a receptacle module having vertically aligned tube inserts,

Fig. 18 is a receptacle module with a horizontally aligned tube inserts,

Fig. 19 is a receptacle module with obliquely, for example at an angle of 45 degrees aligned tube inserts,

Fig. 20 is a partial perspective view of a manifold outlet according to the invention in a third embodiment;

Fig. 21 is a detail view of Fig. 7,

Fig. 22 shows a cable brake in the form of sealing lips in section.

Fig. 1 is an overall perspective view showing a multi-outlet manifold 1 in extended form. One can see here five socket modules 2 which are hexagonal in plan and which are connected with plastic joint elements 3 to form a row. These socket modules 2 each have an insertion recess 4 with the corresponding partially not shown standardized contact options, such as. B. two sockets 5 , 6 for the phase and the neutral conductor and a bracket contact 7 for the protective conductor.

The surfaces 8 of the hexagonal contour flanking the articulation points of the modules 2 preferably form an angle α of 60 degrees to the central plane and limit the respective maximum pivoting angle of the modules 2 to one another, preferably to 120 degrees.

End tends to be a connecting module 9 hinged to the socket modules 2, wherein the basic contour is substantially identical to the socket modules 2, that also this is, for example, by its edges 8 in a limited area pivotably articulated to the receptacle module. 2 The articulated connection is the same as that of the socket modules 2 .

To supply power to the individual socket modules 2 , the multiple distributor socket 1 can be contacted by means of the supply cable 11 via a plug 12 with a socket. The connection module 9 has a corresponding receptacle for the supply cable 11 . The connection module 9 has a slot 14 which is open to the separation point 13 and through which the corresponding cables 15 of the plugs 16 inserted into the insertion recesses 4 are passed (cf. FIG. 4). The slot 14 can be closed by corresponding sealing lips 46, which can also serve as a retaining means for the cables 11 , 15 (cf. FIG. 22).

The joint elements 3 , as can be seen particularly in FIG. 2, are formed from flat elastomer strips which are inserted or clamped in corresponding recesses 17 on diametrically opposite corner regions 18 of the individual modules 2 , 9 . Accordingly, the module housings are particularly advantageously formed in two parts, the parting plane T lying in a vertical central plane with respect to the drawing. To hold the elastomer strips 3 securely, they can have beads 19 at their ends, which engage in a respective congruent expansion of the recesses.

In Fig. 1 it can be seen that a plurality of plugs 16 and a power supply 21 are inserted into corresponding insertion recesses 4 of the multiple distributor socket 1 (insertion axis E).

The possible maximum swivel angles of all modules 2 , 9 together have a total angle of 360 degrees, ie if all individual modules 2 , 9 are swiveled to the maximum in one direction, either a ring structure 22 , 23 according to FIG. 4 or FIG. 5 is formed. The flanks 8 of the modules 2 , 9 which limit the swivel angle lie in a particularly advantageous manner closely against one another in the maximally swiveled situation. The ring structures 22 , 23 formed in this way are closed with connecting elements 24 , which essentially correspond to the shape of the joint elements 3 , the connecting elements 24 not being elastic but being rigid and already having the required angular deflection, here for example at an angle β of 120 degrees , A handle 25 is provided for easier insertion of these connecting elements 24 or for their removal.

As can be seen in particular in FIG. 2, the modules 2 , 9 have openings 26 in the center in the joint region with respect to the pivot axis, through which openings the electrical cable connection 27 can be guided from module to module. Various grommets 28 protect the cables 27 against excessive kink loading in the joint area (see FIG. 3).

As can be seen in FIGS . 1 to 5, the articulation elements 3 are interrupted in the central area to expose the through openings 26 of the connecting cables 27 or the articulation elements 3 are made in two parts.

In the case of the contact elements in the interior of the socket modules 2 , designs which are sufficiently known from the prior art can be used and have not been shown any further here.

Another mechanical positive connection possibility is shown schematically in FIGS. 7 to 9. In the end socket module 2 , two locking elements 29 are preferably mounted so as to be displaceable against a spring force, such that they can be moved from a rest position, which corresponds to the locking position, into an unlocking position. The locking elements 29 each have two locking projections 31 , which are designed in their geometry such that both ring structures 22 , 23 can be locked as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. The respective "free" locking projection 31 can serve as a handle 25 in this embodiment. If, as schematically indicated in FIG. 7 by the arrows Pf1, the locking elements 29 are pressed against the compression spring 32 ( FIG. 9), the end modules 2 , 9 can be brought together to form a ring structure (Pf2). The locking projections 31 are then in a recess 33 in the locking module 9 in alignment with a locking groove 34 . If the locking elements 29 are now released, they slide under the action of the compression spring 32 into the locking recesses 34 and connect the ring structure formed.

A further connection possibility is shown schematically in section in FIGS. 10 and 11, functional reference being made to FIGS. 7 and 8, also with regard to the reference symbols used.

As a device for closing the ring structure, the person skilled in the art Invention also so-called snap-snap connections, sliding latches or want to use magnetic, adhesive or Velcro connections, which are not here were presented further.

In Fig. 1, for example, two standardized connectors 16 and a power supply 21 are shown schematically. It is easy to see that by the defined distance of the Einsteckvertiefungen 4, such a power supply 21 does not block the Einsteckvertiefung. 4 If only standardized plugs 12 are now used, a configuration as shown in FIG. 4 can be realized in such a way that the initially in a stretched form according to FIG. Fig. 1 present elongated multiple distributor socket 1 , equipped with the corresponding plugs 16 , via the joints 3 is formed into a ring structure 22 , in which the insertion recesses 4 and 4 respectively. the plug 12 or the insertion axes E of the insertion recesses 4 point into the center.

As can be clearly seen in FIG. 4, the corresponding cables 15 of the plugs 16 are led out through the slot 14 of the connection module 9 .

In a further advantageous embodiment, the ring structure 22 according to FIG. Wherein the entire central region of the annular structure is covered 22 and thus the plug 12 are hidden from the viewer will Fig. 4, as shown in FIGS. 12, 13 and 14, closed by means of cover elements 35, or the direct access is prevented. The cover elements 35 have, for example, projections 36 which cooperate with the flanks on the ring structure 22 ( FIG. 12). The embodiment acc. FIGS. 13 and 14 shows a ring structure 22 that completely by two cover elements 37 can be encased. Only the cable outlet is made possible by a corresponding cutout 38 in the ring wall 39 of the cover elements 37 .

Now come next to the standard plugs 12 z. B. particularly large power supplies 21 are used, the ring structure 23 according to. Fig. 5 are formed. In this configuration, the insertion recesses 4 or the insertion axes E point outward in a star shape, which means that even here, none of the insertion openings 4 is covered by the power supply unit body.

Fig. 6 shows again how the articulation points 3 acc. Figs. 1 to 5 are formed and how the connecting elements 24 can be inserted into the recesses provided which correspond to the recesses for the hinge members 3 herein in their shape. The connecting elements 24 are designed such that both configurations acc. May be generated FIGS. 4 and Fig. 5.

In Figs. 15 and 16, a second embodiment of a manifold outlet 1 of the invention is illustrated. In contrast to the example described above, the joints between the modules 2 , 9 are not designed as plastic joints, but as hinge joints 41 .

The module housings are essentially made up of two parts, the parting plane T being located in a horizontal center plane with respect to the drawing. The module parts can be shaped in the same way, which requires a point-symmetrical arrangement of the bearing eyes 42 . The bearing eyes 42 of the modules 2 , 9 are designed in their longitudinal extent and in their vertical position in such a way that they can interlock to form a hinge joint. The aligned hinge joint bores 44 of the bearing eyes 42 are penetrated on both sides by journals 43 such that the central area for the passage of the connecting cable 27 remains free.

In this embodiment, the journals 43 , which permanently connect the modules 2 , 9 , can be firmly inserted. The connection point or separation point 13 between the first socket module 2 and the connection module 9 is essentially identical to the articulation points. Corresponding pins 43 can be releasably used here if a ring structure 22 , 23 is to be formed.

At the connection point, a one-piece, longer one, contrary to the illustration Connection pins are used, which with an appropriate handle is provided.

The insertion recesses 4 of the socket modules 2 can be embedded as an independent component in the actual module body, in such a way that it and its contacting devices can be rotated or adjusted in a defined area (insertion axis E). The Fig. 17, 18 and 19 show possible orientation angle of the sockets 5, 6 of Einsteckvertiefungen. 4 The space required for various insertable components can thus be optimally accommodated.

In a particularly advanced manufacturing technology, as has been shown schematically in FIGS. 20 and 21, the plastic hinge points can be produced directly in the manufacturing process, that is, with a suitable choice of the plastic to be sprayed, all module parts 2 , 9 can be injection molded continuously, between the modules so-called film joints 45 are formed.

Claims (31)

1.Multiple distributor socket having several insertion recesses with standardized contacting devices such as sockets for the phase and the neutral conductor as well as bracket contacts for the protective conductor, which can be electrically connected via a protective contact plug and a connecting cable to a power supply network, characterized in that the individual insertion recesses ( 4 ) are modular separated from one another and connected to one another via an articulated connection ( 3 ), and the plugs ( 16 ) can be pivoted relative to one another in a defined area in an axis perpendicular to the insertion direction (E), such that a ring structure ( 22 , 23 ) can be formed. 2. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1, characterized in that the ring structure ( 22 ) has radially inwardly facing insertion recesses ( 4 ). 3. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1, characterized in that the ring structure ( 23 ) has radially outwardly facing insertion recesses ( 4 ). 4. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1, characterized in that the ring structure ( 22 , 23 ) has radially inward and outward insertion recesses ( 4 ). 5. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 4, characterized in that between the socket modules ( 2 ) a connection module ( 9 ) is articulated, which is connected to the supply cable ( 11 ). 6. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 5, characterized in that the connection module ( 9 ) has an opening ( 14 ) for the passage of cables ( 11 , 15 ). 7. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 6, characterized in that the opening ( 14 ) for the passage of cables ( 11 , 15 ) has retainers and sealing means in the form of sealing lips ( 46 ). 8. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 7, characterized in that the central opening of the ring structure ( 22 ) with a cover ( 35 ) can be covered on both sides. 9. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 7, characterized in that the ring structure ( 22 ) with two lids ( 37 ) is completely encasable and the connecting cables ( 11 , 15 ) can be led out of a recess ( 38 ) in the ring wall ( 39 ). 10. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 9, characterized in that the modules ( 2 , 9 ) are connected by means of plastic joints ( 3 ). 11. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 10, characterized in that the plastic joints ( 3 ) are formed by elastomer strips. 12. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 10, characterized in that the plastic joints are integrally formed as a film joints ( 45 ) directly on the module body. 13. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 9, characterized in that the connection of the modules ( 2 , 9 ) by means of hinge joints ( 41 ). 14. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 13, characterized in that the maximum pivoting movement of the individual modules ( 2 , 9 ) is limited by stop surfaces ( 8 ). 15. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 14, characterized in that the modules ( 2 , 9 ) in the region of the articulated connections ( 3 ) with openings ( 26 ) for performing electrical connection cables ( 27 ) is provided. 16. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 15, characterized in that the cables ( 27 ) within the pivoting movement between the individual modules ( 2 , 9 ) are movable and these are protected by rubber sleeves ( 28 ). 17. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 16, characterized in that the ring structure ( 22 , 23 ) can be closed via a releasable connection. 18. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 17, characterized in that the releasable connection is formed by a snap-snap connection. 19. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 17, characterized in that the detachable connection is formed by a pressure-sensitive adhesive connection. 20. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 17, characterized in that the releasable connection is formed by a bolt connection ( 29 ). 21. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 20, characterized in that the modules ( 2 , 9 ) are hexagonal and have an insertion recess ( 4 ) on one of the six main surfaces. 22. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 21, characterized in that the sockets ( 5 , 6 ) and contact bracket ( 7 ) of the insertion recesses ( 4 ) are aligned at different angles. 23. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 22, characterized in that the orientation of the sockets ( 5 , 6 ) and contact bracket ( 7 ) of the insertion recesses ( 4 ) are adjustable at different angles. 24. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 23, characterized in that at least three modules are articulated to one another at diametrically opposite connecting edges and the hinge axes are at an angle of 90 degrees to the insertion direction (E) of the insertion recesses ( 4 ). 25. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 23, characterized in that at least three modules can be combined to form a ring structure ( 22 , 23 ), each being designed as a socket module ( 2 ). 26. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 23, characterized in that six modules can be combined to form a ring structure ( 22 , 23 ), each being designed as a socket module ( 2 ). 27. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 23, characterized in that six modules can be combined to form a ring structure ( 22 , 23 ), five being designed as socket modules ( 2 ) and one as a connection module ( 9 ). 28. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 27, characterized in that the modules ( 2 , 9 ) to a ring structure ( 22 , 23 ) with a polygonal inner and outer contour can be transferred. 29. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 28 comprising several Connection options such as sockets or plugs, which have a Connection plug device and a connecting line can be supplied, characterized in that the line-forming medium for the transmission of electrical signals is formed.   30. Multiple distribution socket according to claim 1 to 28 comprising several Connection options such as sockets or plugs, which have a Connection plug device and a connecting line can be supplied, characterized in that the line-forming medium for the transmission of optical signals in the form of light waves. 31. Multiple distributor socket according to claim 1 to 28 comprising several Connection options such as sockets or plugs, which have a Connecting line are connectable, characterized in that the Line-forming medium for the transmission of gaseous and liquid media suitable is.