DE102013007899B4 - Swiveling connector and use - Google Patents

Abstract

A connector (1) adapted to be fastened to a complementary connector in the operative position, the connector (1) comprising: - a first connector part (11) comprising: - contacting means (15) at least partially along an insertion direction ( E) is insertable into a complementary contacting device (7) of a complementary connector (3) and has at least one electrical contact (17) which is electrically contactable with a complementary electrical contact (9) of the complementary connector (3); - A first latching device (21); and - a second connector part (13) having: - at least one connection region (43); - A second locking device (23); wherein said first connector part (11) is pivotally connected to said second connector part (13) about an axis (A), said first latch means (21) of said first connector part (11) being connected to said second latch means (23) at a number N of pivotal positions. the second connector part (13) latched, whereby a further pivoting of the first connector part (11) relative to the second connector part (13) can be effected only by applying a torque which is greater than a predetermined unlocking torque.

Description

The invention relates to a pivotable connector and a use of the connector.

In many fields of technology, electrical connectors are used to electrically connect a device or component to another component or device. In particular, in the assembly of complex equipment or devices containing such electrical equipment or components, it may be necessary to mount further components or devices at positions after assembly of a device or component and its electrical connection by means of the connector, so that the Connector or contacted with the connector connecting cable hinders further assembly.

DE 10 2005 026 398 A1 discloses a latchable male connector assembly with latching, such as is used with angle plug housings attached to an assembly.

DE 20 2005 000 883 U1 discloses an angle connector for a machine housing for connecting an electrical connector with a 90 degree angled connector housing, which is plugged with a connection side on a terminal base of the machine housing and axially aligned and on the opposite side of the connector side an electrical mating connector can be inserted, wherein the connector housing through a threaded nut on the connection socket and the mating connector can be fixed by a union nut on a connecting thread of the connector housing cover.

DE 103 14 914 B3 discloses an angle connector with a plug part and a flange part, wherein the plug part relative to the flange part for fixing the outgoing direction is rotatable.

The object is to already pre-set a connector that can be used flexibly and simply mounted on a complementary connector.

This object is achieved by a connector having the feature of claim 1 and by a use of the connector having the features of claim 11. Preferred embodiments are subject of the dependent claims.

Connector according to one aspect

• – ein erstes Verbinderteil mit:
• – einer Kontaktierungseinrichtung, welche zumindest bereichsweise entlang einer Einführrichtung E in eine komplementäre Kontaktierungseinrichtung eines komplementären Verbinders einführbar ist und zumindest einen elektrischen Kontakt aufweist, welcher mit einem komplementären elektrischen Kontakt des komplementären Verbinders elektrisch kontaktierbar ist;
• – einer ersten Rasteinrichtung; und
• – ein zweites Verbinderteil mit:
• – zumindest einem Anschlußbereich;
• – einer zweiten Rasteinrichtung;

wobei das erste Verbinderteil um eine Achse A schwenkbar mit dem zweiten Verbinderteil verbunden ist, wobei die erste Rasteinrichtung des ersten Verbinderteils bei einer Anzahl N von Schwenkpositionen mit der zweiten Rasteinrichtung des zweiten Verbinderteils verrastet, wodurch ein weiteres Verschwenken des ersten Verbinderteils relativ zum zweiten Verbinderteil nur durch Anlegen eines Drehmomentes erfolgen kann, welches größer ist als ein vorbestimmtes Entrastdrehmoment.One aspect relates to a connector adapted to be operably attachable to a complementary connector, the connector comprising:

• A first connector part with:
• A contacting device, which is insertable at least partially along an insertion direction E into a complementary contacting device of a complementary connector and has at least one electrical contact which is electrically contactable with a complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector;
• - A first locking device; and
• A second connector part with:
• - at least one connection area;
• - A second locking device;

wherein the first connector part is pivotally connected to the second connector part about an axis A, the first latching means of the first connector part latching with the second latching means of the second connector part at a number N of pivotal positions, thereby further pivoting the first connector part relative to the second connector part only can be done by applying a torque which is greater than a predetermined Entrastdrehmoment.

Advantageously, the connector, which is in particular designed as a connector, are pivoted in the operating position, wherein the connector or attached to the connector connecting cable can be pivoted away from a working area on which further installation work must be performed. As a result, the connector or the connecting cable in the further assembly work is not in the way. The operating position of the connector describes the condition of the connector in which the electrical connection between the connector and the device to be contacted with the connector is already established. In the event that the connector is designed as a connector, this means that the connector or plug connector is plugged into the device and electrically contacted.

In other words, it is advantageously not necessary for the further assembly work, the connector of the associated device or component, which is to be contacted by the connector electrically contacted and contacted, and after the completion of assembly work again aufzustecken or with the Device or component to contact electrically. This is particularly advantageous when the complementary connector of the device with which the connector is to be contacted is difficult to access after completion of the further assembly work, so that it is difficult or even impossible the connector with the complementary connector to contact the device.

The connector includes a first connector part and a second connector part, wherein the first and second connector parts are pivotally connected about axis A relative to each other. The first and second connector part can be detachably or permanently connected to each other.

The pivoting of the second connector part relative to the first connector part takes place in such a way that the first and second connector part can remain stable only in a predetermined number N of pivotal positions. This is effected by the first latching means of the first connector part and the second latching means of the second connector part which lock together in this stable pivotal position to hold the first and second connector parts in this pivotal position. In order to pivot the first connector part from a stable pivot position to an adjacent stable pivot position, it is necessary to apply a torque to the first connector part which is greater than a predetermined unlocking torque to overcome the latching between the first and second latching devices. Pivoting the first connector part relative to the second connector part requires applying a torque to the first connector part that is less than the unlatching torque when the first and second connector parts are in a pivotal position that is between two stable pivotal positions.

It is understood that the number N of the stable pivotal position at which the first detent engages the second detent may be two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more.

The first connector part comprises a contacting device, which has at least one electrical contact. It is understood that the contacting device may also have a plurality of two, three, four, five or more electrical contacts. The electrical contacting device is designed to be introduced into the complementary contacting device of the complementary connector along the insertion direction E at least in regions. Accordingly, the at least one electrical contact can be electrically contacted by the insertion of the contacting device into the complementary contacting device with an associated complementary electrical contact of the complementary contacting device. It is understood that the at least one electrical contact at least partially has a longitudinal extent, which is oriented parallel to the insertion direction E. In particular, the contacting device can be designed such that the contacting device can be introduced only in one position into the complementary contacting device, so that each electrical contact of the contacting device can be electrically contacted only with an associated complementary contact of the complementary contacting device. Advantageously, a polarity reversal of a plurality of electrical contacts with the complementary electrical contacts can be avoided.

The contacting device may comprise an electrically insulating holder which holds the electrical contacts of the contacting device in a predetermined position. In this case, the holder of the contacting device may preferably be formed of a polymer or elastomer. The contacting device or its electrical contacts are preferably designed such that the contacting device acts as a plug connector, which establishes the electrical contact by simply plugging it onto or into or into a complementary contacting device. In other words, the contacting device is connected in the operating position with the complementary contacting device such that a pivoting or turning of the contacting device relative to the complementary contacting device is not possible. The contacting device is preferably mechanically connected to a housing of the first connector part or at least partially received by the housing. Furthermore, the first latching device is fastened to the housing of the first connector part or formed on or in the housing of the first connector part. It is understood that the first connector part is connected in the operative position to the complementary connector such that pivoting of the first connector part relative to the complementary connector is impossible. Preferably, in the operative position of the connector, it is only possible to displace the connector against the insertion direction E relative to the complementary connector to separate the connector from the complementary connector.

The second connector part is pivotally connected to the first connector part so that the second connector part is also pivotable relative to the complementary connector. The second connector part has a connection region which is designed to electrically connect the connector to other components or devices. Therefore, the connection region may preferably have a connecting cable and / or further electrical contacts. In this case, the connection region is pivotable about the axis A as part of the second connector part. As a result, an orientation or alignment of the connection region relative to the first connector part or to the complementary connector in the operating position is advantageously possible.

Preferably, the axis A is oriented substantially parallel to the insertion direction E.

The term "substantially" in this context means that between the axis A and the insertion direction E is included an angle less than about 30 degrees, preferably less than about 10 degrees, and more preferably less than about 5 degrees. Particularly preferably, the axis A is oriented exactly parallel to the insertion direction E. In the case that the terminal portion is disposed on a side portion of the second connector part, that is, the terminal portion is arranged in a portion of the second connector part having a normal vector which is coincident with the axis A and insertion direction E, respectively Includes angles other than zero, preferably an angle of greater than 30 degrees, more preferably an angle of greater than about 60 degrees, and in particular an angle of about 90 degrees, it is advantageously possible to connect the terminal portion of the second connector portion relative to to orient complementary connector or to the first connector part that the connection of the connector can be made from different directions.

Preferably, the first connector part is pivotable relative to the second connector part only by a pivot angle of less than 360 degrees.

Advantageously, this prevents a complete rotation of the first connector part relative to the second connector part. In particular, this can be avoided by twisting a connecting cable connected to the second connector part. Further, it can be avoided that a connecting cable of the Anschußbereichs is rotated so that the electrical lines of the connecting cable, which are electrically and mechanically contacted with the electrical contacts of the first connector part are twisted or twisted so that the connection between the electrical lines and tears off the electrical contacts. In particular, the second connector part may be pivoted less than about 300 degrees, preferably less than 270 degrees, and more preferably less than about 180 degrees relative to the first connector part.

Preferably, the first latching device has a serrated or corrugated first sliding surface on which the second latching device slides during pivoting with a complementary or conforming second sliding surface.

Advantageously, the first latching device and the second latching device can be formed in a simple manner. In particular, the first latching device may be formed integrally with a housing of the first connector part. Accordingly, the second latching means may be formed integrally with the housing of the second connector part.

The stable pivotal positions are achieved in particular when a projection or a wave crest of the first latching device is in engagement with a corresponding recess or trough of the second latching device in engagement. In a stable pivoting position, all projections or peaks of the first latching device are preferably in engagement with corresponding recesses or troughs of the second latching device. It is understood that in a stable pivot position then arranged between two projections recess of the first latching device or a trough of the first latching device is in engagement with a corresponding projection or crest of the second latching device. In particular, the first sliding surface can contact the full surface with the second sliding surface substantially mechanically when the first latching device is locked to the second latching device, that is, when a stable pivoting position is reached. In particular, the term "substantially full-surface" may describe that greater than about 50 percent, preferably greater than about 80 percent, and most preferably greater than about 95 percent, of the first sliding surface mechanically contacts the second sliding surface in a stable pivotal position.

It is understood that during the pivoting of the first connector part relative to the second connector part, that is, during the sliding of the first Gleitfäche on the second sliding surface, the proportion of the first sliding surface, which mechanically contacted with the second sliding surface may vary. In particular, the contact surface between the two sliding surfaces decreases when the second connector part is pivoted out of a stable pivoting position relative to the first connector part. In particular, the contact surface between the first sliding surface and the second sliding surface may be minimized when the second connector part is positioned in half relative to the first connector part between two stable pivotal positions. In this case, in particular, a projection or a wave crest of the first latching device can mechanically contact a projection or crest of the second latching device, wherein the contact surface between the first and second sliding surfaces can be minimized.

Preferably, the second latching device relative to the first latching device by the pivoting about the axis A along a displacement direction V is displaced, which is oriented parallel to the axis A.

Advantageously, a user by the displacement of the second locking device and thus indicating to the second connector part along the displacement direction V whether the connector is in a stable pivot position or not. In this case, a displaced along the displacement direction V state of the second connector part indicate that the second connector part is in a position which is arranged between two stable pivot positions. The relocation of the second connector part against the displacement direction V or the latching of the first latching device with the second latching device can then reliably show the user that a stable pivotal position of the connector has been reached.

The orientation of the displacement direction V parallel to the axis A can be achieved in particular by the fact that the first and second sliding surfaces each comprise normal vectors, which are oriented substantially parallel to the axis A. In particular, the tips of the projections or recesses or the wave crests and wave troughs may be arranged such that the tips along the axis A are spaced from each other.

Preferably, the connector further comprises at least one biasing element which biases the first latching means or the second latching means against the displacement direction V.

Advantageously, the biasing element causes the connector or the second connector part to automatically enter a stable pivoting position. By the biasing element, the first and second latching means parallel to the displacement direction V can be biased against each other, so that a displacement of the first latching device relative to the second latching device out of a stable pivot position leads to a further tensioning of the biasing member. The biasing member is resiliently deformable, in particular elastically deformable, formed, so that due to the resilience of the biasing element in the event that the first and second locking means are not in a stable pivot position, a greater mechanical stress acts on both locking devices than in a stable pivot position , Therefore, the first and second detents tend to return to a stable pivot position and at least partially relax the biasing member.

In particular, by a spring constant of the biasing member, which describes the necessary force per millimeter deformation along the displacement direction V, and the length between a projection tip and a return tip of a wave crest and the root of the first and second detent means, respectively necessary force to be predetermined, which is necessary to move from a stable pivot position to an adjacent stable pivot position. This force, which is needed to further tension the biasing element, is generated by the torque applied to the second connector part.

Preferably, the at least one biasing element is part of a locking device which locks the first connector part or the complementary connector with the second connector part.

In particular, the locking means may be secured to the second connector part by means of a mounting portion and having an engagement portion spaced from the mounting portion, wherein the engagement portion is adapted to engage a complementary engagement portion of the complementary connector to engage the connector in the operative position to attach the complementary connector. The locking device may be formed at least partially elastically deformable or resilient deformable, so that the distance between the engagement portion and the mounting portion of the locking device by applying a corresponding force can be increased. Due to the resilience of the locking device, the distance between the engagement portion and the attachment portion returns to its original value as soon as the applied force stops working. In particular, the resiliently deformable locking device allows the second connector part to be displaceable along the direction of displacement V relative to the first connector part or to the complementary connector. In particular, the distance between the engagement region and the attachment region of the locking device and thus the position of the second connector part relative to the first connector part or to the complementary connector by a distance of about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, preferably about 0.2 mm to about 1 mm, in particular about 0.5 mm to about 0.8 mm. Preferably, the locking device may be formed of a metal, such as a spring steel. Preferably, the locking device may also comprise a plurality of biasing elements. For example, two, three, four, five or more biasing elements may be provided.

• – eine Kabeldurchführöffnung durch welche entlang einer Längsrichtung L ein Anschlußkabel in das zweite Verbinderteil einführbar ist, um mit einem zugeordneten des zumindest einen elektrischen Kontakts der Kontaktierungseinrichtung elektrisch kontaktierbar zu sein;

oder

• – ein Anschlußkabel, welches entlang einer Längsrichtung L in das zweite Verbinderteil eingeführt und mit einem zugeordneten des zumindest einen elektrischen Kontakts der Kontaktierungseinrichtung elektrisch kontaktiert ist.

Preferably, the terminal area of the second connector part further comprises:

• A cable feed opening through which a connection cable can be introduced into the second connector part along a longitudinal direction L in order to be electrically contactable with an associated one of the at least one electrical contact of the contacting device;

or

• A connecting cable, which is inserted along a longitudinal direction L into the second connector part and is electrically contacted with an associated one of the at least one electrical contact of the contacting device.

The connection region of the second connector part may preferably have a cable feed-through opening, through which a connection cable can be introduced along a longitudinal direction L into the second connector part. The connecting cable has at least one electrical line, which is electrically contactable with an associated electrical contact of the contacting device. For this purpose, a through opening may be provided, which is formed or arranged between the first connector part and the second connector part, so that the connection cable or the at least one electrical line of the connection cable from the connection area or from the interior of the second connector part to the contacting device of the first connector part can be performed. Preferably, the at least one electrical line is electrically or mechanically contacted directly with the associated electrical contact of the contacting device. It is understood that the connection cable can also have a plurality of electrical lines, which can each be electrically contacted with an associated electrical contact of the contacting device. During the pivoting of the second connector part relative to the first connector part, it may be preferable to twist the electrical leads of the connecting cable, since the connecting cable or the electrical leads of the connecting cable pivot relative to the electrical contacts of the contacting device. Therefore, the relative pivoting of the second connector part is expediently limited relative to the first connector part to a pivot angle of less than 360 ° in order to prevent the tearing off of the electrical lines of the associated electrical contacts by over-twisting.

Alternatively, the connecting cable is fixedly connected to the second connector part, so that the connecting cable protrudes along the longitudinal direction L from the second connector part. As described above, at least one electrical line of the connection cable can be electrically or mechanically connected to an associated electrical contact of the contacting device. Preferably, the connection cable comprises a plurality of electrical lines, which are each connected to an associated electrical contact of the contacting device. Preferably, the connection cable can be releasably connected to the second connector part. For example, the connection cable may be releasably secured to the second connector part by clamping by means of a grommet. Alternatively, the connection cable can also be permanently connected to the second connector part, for example by casting the connection cable with the second connector part. The casting can preferably be effected by a thermoplastic polymer or a thermoplastic elastomer.

Preferably, the longitudinal direction L is oriented substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction E and / or the axis A.

In other words, the longitudinal direction L, along which the connection cable can be inserted into the second connector part or along which the connection cable extends, can be oriented by pivoting the second connector part relative to the first connector part in space within a pivoting plane. The pivoting plane is characterized by a normal vector, which is oriented parallel to the axis A and / or to the insertion direction E.

Preferably, the first connector part has a connector part receiving, which is designed to receive the second connector part at least partially. In particular, the second connector part can be inserted along the insertion direction E or along the displacement direction V into the connector part receptacle of the first connector part, in order to be fastened to the first connector part.

Preferably, the connector part receiving is formed substantially rotationally symmetrical to the axis A. In particular, the connector part receptacle may be substantially cylindrical. Advantageously, it is possible in a rotationally symmetrical or cylindrical design of the connector part receiving in a simple manner, to pivot the second connector part relative to the relative to the first connector part.

Preferably, the first latching device is formed on a bottom of the connector part receptacle of the first connector part or formed integrally with the connector part receptacle. Advantageously, the first connector part is particularly easy to create in this configuration.

Preferably, the second latching device of the second connector part is arranged or formed on an end face of the region of the second connector part, which in the connector part receiving is introduced. In the operating position, the end face of the second connector part preferably contacts the bottom of the connector part receptacle of the first connector part. In other words, the first latching device and the second latching device are mechanically contacted when the end face of the second connector part mechanically contacts the bottom of the connector part receptacle, ie when the second connector part is received in the connector part receptacle of the first connector part.

Preferably, a circumferential groove is formed in the connector part, in which a locking ring is at least partially inserted. Furthermore, the region of the second connector part, which can be received in the connector part receptacle, likewise comprises a circumferential groove, in which the locking ring can likewise be received at least in some areas. In the operating position, the circumferential groove of the connector part receiving and the circumferential groove of the second connector part are at least partially opposite, wherein the locking ring is disposed in two grooves and thus prevents withdrawal of the second connector part of the connector part. The thickness extension D of the locking ring is dimensioned such that the locking ring in the groove of the connector part receiving a clearance of about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to about 1 mm, in particular from about 0.5 mm to about 0 8 mm, remains. Further, the locking ring or the groove of the second connector part may be dimensioned such that the locking ring in the groove of the second connector part along the displacement direction V a game of about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, preferably from about 0.2 mm to about 0.5 mm, remains.

Preferably, the connector part receiving at its edge have a circumferential chamfer, which is formed conically, that increases the diameter of the connector part receiving along the displacement direction V. In other words, the diameter of the connector part receptacle tapers in the region of the edge in the direction in which the second connector part is inserted into the connector part receptacle. Furthermore, the connector part receptacle is resilient or elastic, in particular in the region of the edge of the connector part receptacle, so that a locking ring, which is already arranged on the second connector part during insertion of the second connector part, can deform the connector part receptacle at least partially perpendicular to the insertion direction E until the locking ring is received at least partially by the circumferential groove in the connector part receiving, wherein the connector part receiving deformed back due to their resilience, whereby a withdrawal of the second connector part is prevented from the connector part recording. Further, it is expedient that the locking ring is formed of a rigid material to prevent withdrawal. For example, the locking ring may be formed of a metal, such as steel.

Preferably, a sealing ring is provided, which is disposed between the connector and the complementary connector in the operating position to prevent ingress of moisture into the complementary connector or the device comprising the complementary connector. The sealing ring may be provided between the first connector part and the complementary connector or device housing of the device having the complementary connector. For this purpose, the first connector part have a sealing ring groove, in which the sealing ring is at least partially receivable. Alternatively, the sealing ring may be provided between the pivotable second connector part and the complementary connector or the device housing. More preferably, then the second connector part has a sealing ring groove, in which the sealing ring. is at least partially receivable. In the case in which the pivotable second connector part comprises the sealing ring, the sealing ring is expediently made of an elastomer which has sufficient mechanical stability with regard to the mechanical load due to the pivoting of the second connector part.

Use according to one aspect

One aspect relates to the use of a connector according to the invention, wherein the contacting device of the connector is at least partially inserted into a complementary contacting device of an electrical device to electrically contact the connector with the device, and then pivoting the second connector part about the axis A.

Advantageously, the connector may be electrically contacted with the device before further assembly work is performed in the vicinity of the device or on the device. The connector may further advantageously remain electrically connected to the device even in cases where a connection cable connected to the connector is obstructive during assembly, because of the pivotability of the connector, the connection cable may be displaced so as to provide better access and mounting capability ,

figure description

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which individual features can be freely separated from one another and combined to new embodiments. It shows:

1 a perspective view of a connector which is connected to a complementary connector of an electrical device, in the operating position;

2 : An exploded perspective view of the connector;

3 a perspective sectional view of the connector;

4 a sectional view through the connector and the electrical device;

5 : an exploded sectional view through details of the connector;

6 : a sectional view through the in 5 shown connector in assembled condition.

The 1 shows a perspective view of a connector 1 which is in the operative position with a complementary connector 3 is connected, which partially through a housing 5 ' an electrical device 5 is trained. By means of the connector 1 and with the connector 1 connected connection cables 6 can the device 5 be electrically connected to other components or devices (not shown). Here is the connector 1 formed pivotable about the axis A.

The 2 shows a section through an exploded perspective view of the in the 1 shown connector 1 and 3 a sectional perspective view of the connector 1 in assembled condition. The 4 shows a section through the connector 1 and the electrical device 5 , as in 1 shown in an operating position in which the connector 1 on the device 5 attached and with the device 5 electrically connected. The in the 1 to 4 shown element are identical to each other and therefore provided with identical reference numerals.

The connector 1 has a first connector part 11 and a second connector part 13 on. The first connector part 11 comprises a contacting device 15 which at least partially along an insertion direction E in a complementary contacting device 7 of the complementary connector 3 can be introduced. The contacting device 15 has at least one electrical contact 17 on. It is understood that the contacting device 15 as in the 1 to 14 also shown a variety of electrical contacts 17 can have. Every electrical contact 17 can by inserting the contacting device 15 in the complementary contacting device 7 with an associated complementary electrical contact 9 the complementary contacting device 7 or the complementary connector 3 be contacted electrically.

The contacting device 15 includes an electrically insulating holder 8th which the electrical contacts 17 the contacting device 15 fixed in a predetermined position. The holder 8th may be formed of a polymer or an elastomer. The contacting device 15 or their electrical contacts 17 are configured as connectors, so plugging the connector 1 on the complementary connector 3 can cause the production of an electrical contact. After plugging, that is in the operating position of the connector 1 , is a pivoting of the contacting device 15 relative to the complementary contacting device 7 not possible.

In the in the 1 to 4 shown preferred embodiment is a connector part 19 on or in the first connector part 11 formed, wherein the second connector part 13 at least partially through the connector part 15 is receivable. This can be the second connector part 13 along the insertion direction E in the connector part receptacle 19 the first connector part 11 are inserted to the first connector part 11 to be attached.

The connector part shown 19 is substantially rotationally symmetrical, preferably at least partially cylindrical, formed to the axis A, so the second connector part 13 , which is partially congruent with the connector part 19 is formed, relative to the first connector part 11 can be swiveled. In other words, the second connector part is also 13 substantially rotationally symmetrical, preferably at least partially cylindrical, formed to the axis A.

The first connector part 11 has a first latching device 21 which is designed, in particular in the operating position of the connector 1 , with a second locking device 23 the second connector part to lock, to pivot the second connector part 13 relative to the first connector part 11 to inhibit. The term "inhibiting" describes that a pivoting of the second connector part 13 relative to the first connector part 11 is not completely prevented, however, a pivoting of the two connector parts 11 . 13 relative to each other only by applying a torque which exceeds a predetermined Entrastdrehmoment. For example, an unlatching torque of greater than about 10 Nm, preferably greater than about 20 Nm and in particular greater than about 50 Nm, may be provided.

The first and the second locking device 21 . 23 can be designed such that both locking devices 21 . 23 with each other at a number N of relative pivotal positions of the first connector part 11 and the second connector part 13 locked together, so that at each of these pivotal positions the Entrastdrehmoment must be applied to the two connector parts 11 . 13 continue to pivot while the expended for pivoting torque at other pivotal positions, in which the locking devices 21 . 23 are not locked together, smaller than the Entrastdrehmoment can be. Therefore, the pivotal positions of the first connector part 11 and the second connector part 13 where the latching devices 21 . 23 are latched together, also referred to as "stable pivoting positions".

As a result, the pivoting of the second connector part takes place 13 relative to the first connector part 11 such that the first and second connector part 11 . 13 can remain stable only in the predetermined number N of pivot positions. In this case, the first and second locking device 21 . 23 at a number N, with for example N = 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 24, 30, 36 or more, stable pivotal position with each other lock.

The 5 shows a detailed section through the connector 1 in a disassembled state and the 6 the same connector 1 in assembled condition. In particular, the first and second locking device 21 . 23 in the 5 and 6 shown.

The first locking device shown in the figures 21 is with the case 25 the first connector part 11 integrally formed. In particular, the first latching device 21 on a floor 27 the connector part pickup 19 the first connector part 11 be educated. The floor 27 the connector part pickup 19 contacted in the assembled state of the connector 1 with a face 29 of the housing 31 the second connector part 13 , with this end face 29 at least partially as a second locking device 23 can be trained. In other words, the frontal area 29 and the ground 27 be at least partially formed congruent or complementary.

The floor 27 as a preferred first locking device 21 forms a serrated first sliding surface, on which the end face 29 as a preferred second locking device 23 during the pivoting of the first and second connector part 11 . 13 slides to each other.

Di0e face 29 or the second locking device 23 has a plurality of substantially triangular or trapezoidal shaped teeth 33 or protrusions, which along an extension direction Z, which is oriented parallel to the axis A, protrude. The spikes 33 may preferably have a "flat tip" or "broken tip", so be formed substantially trapezoidal. The between the teeth 33 trained returns 35 are accordingly formed substantially triangular or trapezoidal. Alternatively, instead of spikes 33 also wave crests and be provided instead of recesses corresponding troughs.

The floor 27 the connector part pickup 19 the first connector part 11 is to the face 29 formed congruent and therefore has corresponding or identical teeth 37 or recesses. A stable pivot position of the connector 1 is reached when the spikes 37 the first latching device 21 with the corresponding recesses 35 the second locking device 23 is engaged. In other words, the first sliding surface or the ground 27 in one of the stable pivot positions substantially over the entire surface with the second sliding surface or the end face 29 contact mechanically.

During the pivoting of the first connector part 11 relative to the second connector part 13 that is, during the sliding of the soil 27 or the first Gleitfäche on the end face 29 or second sliding surface, the proportion of the first sliding surface, which mechanically contacted with the second sliding surface, may vary. In particular, the contact area between the first sliding surface and the second sliding surface may be minimal when the second connector part 13 relative to the first connector part 11 is positioned halfway between two stable pivot positions.

Due to the serrated shape of the first and second locking device 21 . 23 or of the soil 27 and the face 29 is the second locking device 23 relative to the first latching device 21 by the relative pivoting about the axis A along a displacement direction V displaceable, which is oriented parallel to the axis A. In other words, the two connector parts 11 . 13 by the pivoting along the displacement direction V displaced. The displacement during pivoting can indicate whether the connector is in a stable pivot position or not. A maximum spaced apart along the displacement direction V state between the first connector part 11 and the second connector part 13 indicates that the second connector part 13 is located in a position which is arranged between two stable pivot positions. A maximum spaced apart along the displacement direction V state between the first connector part 11 and the second connector part 13 indicates that a stable pivotal position of the connector 1 is reached.

As in the 1 to 4 shown includes the connector 1 two locking devices 39 , each one area 39a have, as the biasing element 39a is trained. This area 39a or the biasing element 39a is resiliently deformable along the displacement direction V. Therefore, the locking devices 39 the connector 1 with the complementary connector 3 lock and at the same time in the locked state, the first connector part 11 against the second connector part 13 press or both connector parts 11 . 13 bias against each other.

The locking device 39 by means of a fastening area 39b on the second connector part 13 attached. The locking device 39 also has an intervention area 39c on which of the attachment area 39b is spaced, wherein the engagement area 39c is designed with a complementary engagement area 41 of the complementary connector 3 to engage the connector 3 in the operative position on the complementary connector 1 to fix. The complementary engagement area 41 of the complementary connector 3 can be considered an annular circumferential groove 41 on the complementary connector 3 or on the housing 5 ' of the device 5 be formed so that the engagement area 39c inside the groove 41 while panning the connector 1 is shifted, with engagement area 39c and complementary engagement area 41 stay engaged with each other.

The resilient deformable locking device 39 or the biasing element 39a allows the second connector part 13 along the direction of displacement V relative to the first connector part 11 is displaced, in particular a shift by the pivoting of the two locking devices 21 . 23 is caused. Therefore, the distance between the engagement area 39 and the attachment area 39b the locking device 39 and thus the position of the second connector part 13 relative to the first connector part 11 vary by a distance that is roughly the height H of the pips 33 . 37 the locking devices 21 . 23 equivalent.

The biasing element 39a causes the connector 1 automatically enters a stable pivot position and remains there until a correspondingly high unlatching torque is applied. The biasing element 39a Clamps the first and second locking device 21 . 23 parallel to the direction of displacement V against each other, wherein a pivoting of the connector parts 11 . 13 relative to each other from a stable pivoting position to a displacing or removing the locking devices 21 . 23 leads from each other, whereby the at least one biasing element 39a is stretched further. In the event that the first and second locking device 21 . 23 not in a stable pivot position, therefore, a greater mechanical stress acts on both locking devices 21 . 23 as in a stable pivot position. Therefore, the connector tends 1 to return to a stable pivot position to the biasing element 39a at least partially relax.

As in the 1 to 4 shown comprises the second connector part 13 a connection area 43 which is designed, the connector 1 with other components or devices (not shown) to connect electrically. In the embodiment shown, the connection area comprises 43 a cable duct opening 45 , through which along a longitudinal direction L, the connecting cable 6 in the second connector part 13 is introduced. The electrical wires 47 of the connection cable 6 , are inside the second connector part 13 bent substantially at right angles to an associated electrical contact 17 the contacting device 15 to contact electrically.

Here is the connection area 43 or the cable passage opening 45 are arranged and oriented such that the longitudinal direction L of the connected connecting cable is at an angle greater than about 30 degrees, preferably greater than about 60 degrees, and in particular, as shown in the figures, substantially perpendicular to the axis A, around which the connector parts 11 . 13 are pivotable, or oriented to the insertion direction E. This advantageously an orientation or orientation of the connecting cable 6 relative to the complementary connector 3 or to the device 5 possible in the operating position.

When pivoting the second connector part 13 relative to the first connector part 11 it comes to a twisting of the electrical wires 47 of the connection cable 6 , Therefore, the relative pivoting of the second connector part 13 relative to the first connector part 11 expediently be limited to a pivot angle of less than 360 ° to the tearing of the electrical lines 47 from the associated electrical contacts 17 by preventing twisting.

Like in the 5 and 6 is further shown in the connector part receptacle 19 a circumferential groove 49 in which, in the assembled state of the connector (see 6 ) a locking ring 51 is arranged at least partially. The second connector part 13 includes a corresponding circumferential groove 53 in which the locking ring 51 also included at least in some areas. Since the Sperring 51 in the assembled state of the two connector parts 11 . 13 in both grooves 49 . 53 is arranged, a pulling out of the second connector part 13 from the connector part 19 prevented. The thickness D of locking 51 is preferably sized so that the locking ring 51 in the groove 49 the connector part pickup 19 a clearance of about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to about 1 mm, in particular from about 0.5 mm to about 0.8 mm, remains, which is greater than the play along the displacement direction V in the groove 53 the second connector part 13 which is about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, preferably from about 0.2 mm to about 0.5 mm. The Sperring 51 For example, it can be a steel ring.

Preferably, the connector part receptacle 19 on its edge a circumferential chamfer 55 have, which is tapered such that the diameter of the connector part receiving 19 along the insertion direction of the second connector part 13 in the connector part receptacle 19 reduced in the area of the edge. The Sperring 51 can then during insertion of the second connector part 13 in the connector part receptacle 19 already in the groove 53 be arranged and when inserted into the groove 49 be forced, in particular by resilient or elastic deformation or expansion of the connector part recording 19 , After locking the locking ring 51 in the groove 49 , Is a pulling out of the second connector part 13 from the connector part 19 inhibited.

A sealing ring 57 can be between the connector 1 and the complementary connector 3 be arranged to prevent moisture from entering the complementary connector 3 or the device 5 to prevent. For this purpose, the pivotable second connector part 13 a sealing ring groove 59 have, in which the sealing ring 57 is at least partially receivable. The sealing ring 57 is then suitably made of an elastomer which, in view of the mechanical load by the pivoting of the second connector part 13 has sufficient mechanical stability.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Interconnects

3

complementary connector

5

electric device

5 '

Housing of the electrical device 5

6

cable

7

complementary contacting device

9

complementary electrical contact

11

first connector part

13

second connector part

15

contacting

17

electric contact

19

Connector member receiving

21

first latching device

23

second locking device

25

casing 25 the first connector part 11

27

Bottom of connector part pickup 19

29

face

31

Housing of the second connector part 13

33

Prongs of the second locking device 23

35

return

37

Prongs of the first latch 21

39

locking device

39a

biasing

39b

fastening area

39c

engagement area

41

complementary engagement area

43

terminal region

45

Cable lead-through opening

47

electrical connection of the connection cable 6

49

Groove of connector part pickup 19

51

locking ring

53

Groove of the second connector part 13

55

chamfer

57

seal

59

Seal groove

A

axis

e

insertion

H

Height of the spikes 33 and 37

L

longitudinal direction

V

displacement direction

Z

extension direction

Claims (11)

Interconnects ( 1 ) adapted to be fastened in operating position to a complementary connector, wherein the connector ( 1 ) comprises: - a first connector part ( 11 ) with: - a contacting device ( 15 ), which at least partially along an insertion direction (E) in a complementary contacting device ( 7 ) of a complementary connector ( 3 ) is insertable and at least one electrical contact ( 17 ) which is connected to a complementary electrical contact ( 9 ) of the complementary connector ( 3 ) is electrically contactable; A first latching device ( 21 ); and - a second connector part ( 13 ) with: - at least one connection area ( 43 ); A second latching device ( 23 ); wherein the first connector part ( 11 ) about an axis (A) pivotally connected to the second connector part ( 13 ), wherein the first latching device ( 21 ) of the first connector part ( 11 ) at a number N of pivot positions with the second latch ( 23 ) of the second connector part ( 13 ), whereby a further pivoting of the first connector part ( 11 ) relative to the second connector part ( 13 ) can be done only by applying a torque which is greater than a predetermined Entrastdrehmoment. Interconnects ( 1 ) according to claim 1, wherein the first connector part is connected in the operating position with the complementary connector such that a pivoting of the first connector part relative to the complementary connector is impossible. Interconnects ( 1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the axis (A) is oriented substantially parallel to the insertion direction (E). Interconnects ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector part ( 11 ) relative to the second connector part ( 13 ) is pivotable only by a pivot angle of less than 360 degrees. Interconnects ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first latching device ( 21 ) a serrated or wavy first sliding surface ( 27 ), on which the second latching device ( 23 ) during the pivoting with a complementary or conforming second sliding surface ( 29 ) slides. Interconnects ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second latching device ( 23 ) relative to the first latch ( 21 ) is displaceable by the pivoting about the axis (A) along a displacement direction (V), which is oriented parallel to the axis (A). Interconnects ( 1 ) according to claim 6, further comprising: - at least one biasing element ( 39a ), which the first latching device ( 21 ) or the second locking device ( 23 ) is biased against the direction of displacement (V). Interconnects ( 1 ) according to claim 7, wherein the at least one biasing element ( 39a ) Part of a locking device ( 39 ), which is the first connector part ( 11 ) or the complementary connector ( 3 ) with the second connector part ( 13 ). Interconnects ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection area ( 43 ) of the second connector part ( 13 ) further comprises: - a cable feed-through opening ( 45 ) through which along a longitudinal direction (L) a connecting cable ( 6 ) in the second connector part ( 13 ) is engageable with an associated one of the at least one electrical contact ( 17 ) of the contacting device ( 15 ) to be electrically contactable; or - a connection cable ( 6 ), which along a longitudinal direction (L) in the second connector part ( 13 ) and associated with an associated one of the at least one electrical contact ( 17 ) of the contacting device ( 15 ) is electrically contacted. Interconnects ( 1 ) according to claim 9, wherein the longitudinal direction (L) is oriented substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction (E) and / or the axis (A). Using a connector ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contacting device ( 15 ) of the connector ( 1 ) at least partially into a complementary contacting device ( 7 ) of an electrical device ( 5 ) is introduced to the connector ( 1 ) electrically with the device ( 5 ), and then pivoting the second connector part ( 13 ) about the axis (A).

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