DE102013113973A1 - Metallic holding frame for a connector - Google Patents

Abstract

A support frame for a connector should have a good heat resistance and high mechanical robustness and allow for installation in a metallic connector housing a protective ground, but at the same time also a comfortable operation, especially when replacing individual modules 3, ensure. For this purpose, it is proposed to manufacture the holding frame at least partially made of resilient sheet metal. Due to the elastic properties of the sheet, it is possible to insert modules 3 individually with very little effort or remove. The sheet may be bent and / or folded in certain areas and thereby selectively strengthened selectively in order to achieve a particularly advantageous combination of holding and actuating forces.

Description

The invention relates to a metallic support frame for a connector according to the preamble of independent main claim 1.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a production method according to the preamble of independent subsidiary claim 19.

Such support frames are required to accommodate a plurality of similar and / or different modules. These modules can be, for example, insulating bodies, which are provided as contact carriers for electronic and electrical and possibly also for optical and / or pneumatic contacts. Of particular importance is that the support frame is made of a generic metallic material, because this is for the production of a regulatory protective grounding according to the connector standard EN61984 For example, to insert the stocked with modules holding frame in metallic connector housing is required.

State of the art

From the publication EP0860906B1 is a holding frame for mounting connector modules and for installation in connector housing or for screwing to wall surfaces known, the connector modules are inserted into the support frame and support means on the connector modules with provided on opposite wall parts (side parts) of the support frame recesses cooperate, wherein the recesses as formed on all sides closed openings in the side parts of the holding frame, wherein the holding frame consists of two hingedly interconnected halves, wherein the separation of the holding frame is provided transversely to the side parts of the frame, and wherein joints are arranged in the attachment ends of the holding frame such that at Screwing the support frame on a mounting surface align the frame parts such that the side parts of the support frame are aligned at right angles to the mounting surface and the connector modules on the Halterungsmit tel have a positive connection with the holding frame. In practice, such holding frames are usually produced in a die-casting process, in particular in a zinc die-casting process.

The publication EP 2 581 991 A1 discloses a support frame for connector modules, which has two frame halves, which are latched together by linear displacement of a frame half relative to the other frame half in a sliding direction with each other to the frame halves each corresponding locking means are provided, which in linear displacement locking the two frame halves together in two cause different locking positions in which the frame halves are spaced at different distances from each other.

However, it has been found in practice that such mounting frames require a complex operation during assembly. For example, such support frame must be unscrewed from the connector and / or unlocked as soon as a single module to be replaced. In this case, possibly fall the other modules whose removal was not desirable, out of the support frame and must then be reinserted before screwing together and / or before locking the frame halves. Finally, all modules must already be in the position provided for them before assembly of the frame halves, in order to be finally fixed in the mounting frame when joining the frame halves, which complicates the assembly.

The publication EP 1 801 927 B1 discloses a holding frame, which consists of a one-piece plastic injection molded part. The holding frame is formed as a circumferential collar and has on its side plug a plurality of separated by slots wall segments. Two opposite wall segments each form an insertion region for a plug module, wherein the wall segments have window-like openings which serve to receive projections formed on the narrow sides of the modules. Furthermore, in each case a guide groove is provided in the wall segments. The guide groove is formed above the openings by means of an outwardly offset window web, which has an insertion bevel on the inside. In addition, the plug-in modules have latching arms, which act on the narrow sides in the direction of the cable connections, molded, and latch below the side collar wall, so that two independent latching means fix the connector modules in the support frame.

A disadvantage of this prior art, on the one hand, that it is a holding frame formed of plastic, which is not suitable for protective grounding, for example by a PE contact, so for example not suitable for installation in metallic connector housing. However, the use of metallic connector housings requires such protective grounding and, for example, because of their mechanical robustness, temperature resistance and electrically shielding properties, is often necessary and therefore desired by the customer. Furthermore, it has been shown that the production of such trained plastic holding frame in Injection molding at least difficult and can be realized only with great effort. Finally, the heat resistance of such a support frame for special applications, for example in the vicinity of a blast furnace, is not always sufficient. Finally, the plastic material and the shape, in particular the strength of the holding frame in the relevant places are determined primarily by the requirements of flexibility and not by those of the temperature resistance.

task

The object of the invention is to provide a design and a manufacturing method for a holding frame, which on the one hand has good heat resistance and high mechanical robustness and which in particular also when installed in a metallic connector housing a corresponding protective ground, in particular a PE ("Protection Earth" ) Grounding, allows and on the other hand, a comfortable operation, especially when replacing individual modules guaranteed.

This object is achieved with a support frame of the type mentioned by the features of the characterizing part of the independent main claim 1.

Furthermore, this object is achieved by a manufacturing method of the type mentioned by the features of the characterizing part of the independent independent claim 19.

Such a support frame is used in the field of heavy industrial connectors and consists at least partially of a metallic material, namely sheet, thus a protective ground, in particular a PE protective earth, allows, and at the same time allows due to the elastic properties of the sheet, modules individually with only insert or remove very little effort. Furthermore, the use of sheet metal as a material ensures high temperature resistance and also ensures a particularly high mechanical robustness of the holding frame.

A resilient sheet metal is to be understood as meaning a sheet having spring-elastic properties, such as, for example, a reversible deformability, in particular by applying a corresponding restoring force, that is, for example, a sheet metal made of spring steel or a comparable material.

Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

An advantage of the invention is therefore that the modules can be inserted individually and with very little effort in the support frame and removed from it.

Another advantage of the invention is that the holding frame for electrical safety a protective ground, in particular a PE protective ground of a metallic connector housing, in which the holding frame is inserted, allows. This further ensures as an additional advantage, a shielding of the transmitted signals through the connector. This shield can be a protection against interference from the outside. But it can also be a shield to prevent or reduce an interference emission, so protect the environment against interference fields of the connector. In other words, not only are the signals transmitted by the modules protected from external interference fields, but environmental protection from disturbances also takes place, which is caused by current flowing through the modules.

A particularly great additional advantage is that the support frame is on the one hand particularly resistant to heat and on the other hand still has sufficient elasticity at the required points to insert the modules individually and with little effort in the module frame and remove again. It is particularly advantageous if the entire support frame made of resilient sheet metal, because it is at least as much elasticity much more resistant to heat than a mechanical view of otherwise functionally comparable plastic frame. Associated modules can be made compact in their design accordingly, so that they can continue to be made of plastic and still are relatively resistant to heat.

It is particularly advantageous that both the material and the design of these modules need to show only low elasticity, because even the holding frame consists of a resilient sheet and therefore, for example, is able, the modules in a constant base voltage over a To keep longer period, without thereby fundamentally changing, for example without so much irreversible deformation and especially under constant mechanical and thermal stress to "crawl" so strong that its holding force with respect to the modules and / or for example, the Contact pressure to a mating connector and thus the optimal function of the connector would be called into question. In other words, the modules can be resiliently clamped in the holding frame without the modules themselves having to have elastic parts and / or material properties.

It is therefore particularly advantageous if the holding frame is at least partially made of resilient sheet metal, so at least partially consists of one or more resilient sheet metal parts.

In particular, it can be produced in stamping and bending technology, so that the sheet metal part or parts are stamped and bent parts. This advantageously enables production with the tools customary for the stamping and bending technique, so that no special tools are necessary for producing such a holding frame. If the holding frame consists of several stamped and bent parts, then these stamped and bent parts can consist of the same sheet metal and accordingly have the same material properties, in particular the same elasticity to one another. But they can also be punched out of different sheets and have different material properties, in particular different strengths and / or elasticities.

It is particularly advantageous if the holding frame has a plurality of different regions, which have a different elasticity to each other, because then he can selectively apply a higher resistance moment in the region of the highest bending stress. This can be realized both with a holding frame, which consists of a single sheet metal part as well as with a holding frame, which consists of several sheet metal parts, wherein the sheet metal parts with each other may have the same or different material properties, in particular the same or different elasticities.

For example, a support frame consist exclusively of sheet metal parts, which consist of the same material and also have the same strength, that is, for example, are punched out of the same stamped sheet metal. For this purpose, a first of these areas can consist of a circulating base frame. The base frame may be substantially rectangular in cross-section, thus having two mutually parallel opposite end faces and at right angles to two mutually parallel opposite side parts, wherein the end faces are shorter than the side parts.

By this closed shape already contributes to the geometry of the base frame and thus the geometry of the entire support frame that this first area, namely the base frame, a lower elasticity and thus greater strength than a second area, which for example from a cheek area with free-standing elastic tabs, which are separated by slots. In particular, this applies if the holding frame is firmly mounted in a connector housing, for example screwed into four screw holes in the connector housing. In addition, the sheet metal of the holding frame in the first area, namely the base frame, at least in some places, in particular on the side parts and possibly also on the end faces, be selectively reinforced by there different layers of the same sheet metal part, for example by folding or by other layers at least one other sheet metal part by attaching and attaching, so come through a so-called joint connection, flat to each other. In the case of the joining connection, called "joining" for short, these sheet metal parts are fastened together at one or more suitable locations, for example by gluing, welding, soldering, riveting or any other suitable fastening method.

The associated modules may be formed substantially parallelepiped-shaped and have on two opposite longitudinal sides in each case a latching lug, which may also be performed substantially cuboidal. Each of the elastic tabs of the holding frame advantageously has a latching window, which may be formed substantially rectangular, and which is provided for preferably positive reception of such a latching lug.

The two locking lugs of a module may, for example, in their shape and / or size, in particular by their length, differ from each other and the tabs on both sides of the support frame may have corresponding (eg rectangular) windows, which therefore also differ from each other and which fit in size and / or shape to each one of the locking lugs. This has the advantage that thereby the orientation of each module is fixed in the holding frame. In other words, the latching window and the locking lugs can be used by their shape and / or size as coding means for orientation of the modules in the holding frame.

The tabs of the holding frame are advantageously bent away easily in a free-standing end portion of the support frame, which simplifies the insertion of the modules. The insertion of a module into the holding frame is then particularly user-friendly. For this purpose, a module is first introduced between two tabs of a holding frame and then slides along with its two longitudinal sides and in particular with the locking lugs formed thereon along the bent away end regions of the tabs. As a result, the two tabs briefly diverge until the respective locking lugs are received by the associated latching window of the respective tab and thus, in particular audible, therein lock. When receiving the locking lugs in the respective locking window, the tabs preferably spring back into their starting position. In this way, the modules individually in the holding frame, preferably audibly, lock.

At the same time, the inserted module is held in the stable base frame with a comparatively large force, in particular when the holding frame is fixedly mounted in a connector housing, for example screwed into the connector housing at four screw holes. To unlock the modules again, only the two opposite elastic tabs have to be bent away from each other again. Then, the respective module can be removed individually from the support frame, while the other modules are still locked. Furthermore, a high holding force at a comparatively low operating force is ensured in this way, in particular by the different elasticity of the different areas, which is particularly advantageous for the operability.

A further ease of operation is given when the latching of the locking lugs in the locking windows generates a noise, because thereby the user is also acoustically signaled the correct positioning of the module.

It is particularly advantageous, moreover, that the modules are already held by the aforementioned construction with sufficient holding force in the holding frame and accordingly except their locking lugs no further locking means, for example, latching arms, because this simplifies their design and thus their production cost considerably and ensures at the same time a compact design and thus also for high heat resistance of the modules and thus the entire connector.

Of particular advantage in the production of the holding frame, that the sheet metal part or the sheet metal parts are shaped, in particular punched and bent and / or joined together, that some of their areas come to rest on each other and thereby for the functions provided in their spring force and possibly strengthen their holding power.

Thus, the sheet can in some places, for example by folding a sheet metal part and / or by joining several individual sheet metal parts, reinforced, for example doubled in strength, tripled, quadrupled, ..., etc, so ver-n-times be. As a result, the manufacturing advantages of the stamping and bending technique can be combined with a targeted influencing of the elasticity, which is otherwise difficult to implement, in particular if the same stamped sheet is used, which originally has a constant thickness. By folding and / or joining, on the one hand, a resilient sheet metal can be used as a particularly suitable material for the holding frame, and on the other hand, the elasticity of individual areas of the holding frame can also be selectively influenced in the manner described above using a single stamping sheet, which facilitates the production become.

In an advantageous embodiment, for example, the side parts of the base frame can be reinforced. For this purpose, a cheek area may additionally be provided adjoining each side part adjacent thereto and having a reinforcing area and adjoining or overlapping tabs thereon. The cheek area can be bent with its reinforcing area in a bending operation by 180 ° and so folded over the side part and reinforce this side part so against outward forces. In the further course, the cheek area can have wholly or partially slots, which subdivide it into equidistant intervals along the side part, the width of these intervals advantageously corresponding to the width of the modules. As a result, the tabs projecting beyond the base frame in one direction are formed. In an opposite direction, the side parts of the base frame reinforced in this way can also project with their respective bending edge over the end faces. Thus, the side parts have a greater width than the end faces. This has the advantage that the modules are held over a larger area and in particular via a corresponding leverage effect with an increased holding force in the holding frame.

Thus, the folded cheek area protrudes with its free-standing end unreinforced beyond the base frame and thus forms the much more elastic second area. Due to its slots, this is done in particular by the individual, free-standing, elastic tabs, which already have a comparatively large elasticity due to their shape. The tabs are still formed in contrast to the base frame of only a single, unreinforced sheet, so are not reinforced by a second plate, and thus have only the simple strength of this single sheet and thereby greater elasticity than the first area. In addition, the tabs in the region of their slots are advantageously not itself attached to the side part but only connected via the bending edge of the reinforcing region with the side part. This has the advantage that the tabs have a high elasticity against outward-acting forces, while the side parts in the region of the base frame oppose outward forces a great stability, since they are reinforced by the reinforcing regions. Since the tabs with the side part are connected only by the reinforcing region on the common bending edge, they spring over their entire length unreinforced outward, whereas the side parts are reinforced against outward forces by the reinforcing regions, and thus in particular by a corresponding overlap region of the tabs.

In an advantageous embodiment, only a single sheet metal part is used for the production of the holding frame. Then, each end face can be reinforced, for example, by stamping in each case additionally a reinforcing surface adjacent to each end surface during the blanking of the sheet, which is then bent by 180 ° and thereby folded over the end face in order to reinforce it and thus stabilize the base frame additionally. Furthermore, this reinforcing surface can be bent at right angles at a then projecting beyond the end face end, so that at the end of the end face a free-standing flange is formed, which may have, for example, in a connector, Schraubbohrungen. For stabilization, this flange can be reinforced in a similar manner, namely by folding or joining.

In an alternative advantageous embodiment of the flange can connect directly to the unreinforced face and bent at right angles to it. Then, on the one hand, the end face is not reinforced, but on the other hand both material and a corresponding operation is saved in the production. Furthermore, independently of this, the side parts can nevertheless be reinforced, which is of paramount importance for holding the modules.

Furthermore, a variety of other embodiments is conceivable in which the holding frame is formed from a plurality of identical and / or different resilient sheet metal parts, which are fastened to each other, for example by gluing, welding, soldering, screws and / or rivets. In particular, these sheet metal parts can be produced in stamping and bending technology, so that the sheet metal parts are stamped and bent parts. Preferably, the holding frame of two, in cross-section of the base frame substantially U-shaped sheet metal parts may be formed, which thus each have two end faces, namely a first and a second end face. The two sheet metal parts are then offset in the production of the holding frame in such a way, in particular offset by a sheet thickness, pushed into each other, that their first and second end faces each lie on each other and to each other, for example by gluing, welding, soldering, screws and / or rivets be attached. In particular, in each case the first end face of one of the sheet metal parts comes to rest on the second end face of the respective other sheet metal part and is fastened thereto. This embodiment has, in addition to the resulting reinforcement of the sheet in the region of the end faces, the further advantage that the holding frame in the region of its base frame in this way is closed over a large area and therefore in a very stable manner.

By screwing the holding frame to the screw holes of its flanges, for example, in or on a connector housing, the base frame is still significantly stabilized.

At one edge of the respective first end face thus coming out in turn, a flange, possibly with screw holes, similar to that described above, can then be bent at right angles. In a further advantageous refinement, the second end faces can then additionally have a reinforcing flange which, when joined, comes to lie on the flange of the first end face and is fastened thereto, for example, by gluing, welding, soldering, screwing and / or riveting for reinforcement. As a result, the flange of the holding frame is designed to be particularly stable.

In an advantageous embodiment, the two sheet metal parts are similar, i. Despite the two-part design of the holding frame, it is only necessary to produce sheet metal parts of one type, which further reduces the production outlay.

In another preferred embodiment, the two sheet metal parts differ at least by the size and / or the shape of their locking window. This has the advantage that thereby the orientation of each module, which accordingly has two different locking lugs, is fixed. In other words, the latching window and the latching lugs can thus serve by their shape as coding means for the orientation of the modules.

In a further preferred embodiment, the holding frame may consist of more than two sheet metal parts, in particular stamped bent parts, which are fastened to one another, for example by gluing, welding, soldering, screws and / or rivets.

embodiment

An embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the drawing and will be explained in more detail below. Show it:

1a A first sheet metal part in the unbent state;

1b a second sheet metal part in the unbent state;

2a , b in each case a further sheet metal part in the unbent state;

2c , d each a further sheet metal part with a reinforcing flange;

3a the two other sheet metal parts in the bent state during assembly;

3b the two other sheet metal parts with reinforcing flange in the bent state during assembly;

4a , b an associated module from two different views;

5 a equipped with a module support frame.

The 1a shows in a first embodiment, a first, one-piece sheet metal part 1 in an unbent state.

• – Zwei Stirnflächen 11, 11´, nämlich eine erste Stirnfläche 11 und eine zweite Stirnfläche 11´;
• – zwei Seitenteile 12, 12´, nämlich eine erste Seitenteil 12 und ein zweites Seitenteil 12´, wobei die Seitenteile 12, 12´ sowohl breiter als auch länger sind als die Stirnflächen 11, 11´ und somit in der Richtung der jeweiligen ersten Biegelinie A, A´, A´´ über die daran angrenzende Stirnfläche 11, 11´ hinausragen;
• – acht freistehende Laschen 13, 13´, die jeweils ein Rastfenster 131, 131´ aufweisen, wobei die Laschen 13, 13´ durch Schlitze 18, 18´ voneinander getrennt sind, wobei die Anzahl der Laschen 13, 13´ sowie die damit korrespondierende Anzahl der Schlitze 18, 18´ beispielhaft gewählt sind und wobei das Rastfenster 131 in vier der Laschen 13 breiter ist als das Rastfenster 131´ in den anderen vier Laschen 13´;
• – zwei einerseits an eine Begrenzungslinie E, E´ und anderseits an einer zweiten Biegelinie B, B´ an die jeweiligen Seitenteile 12, 12´ angrenzende Verstärkungsbereiche 14, 14´;
• – zwei an die jeweilige Stirnfläche 11, 11´ an einer dritten Biegelinie C, C´ angrenzende Verstärkungsflächen 15, 15´, sowie
• – jeweils ein an die jeweilige Verstärkungsfläche 15, 15´ an einer vierten Biegelinie D, D´ angrenzender Flansch 17, 17´, der Schraubbohrungen 171, 171´ aufweist.

The first sheet metal part 1 indicates:

• - Two faces 11 . 11' namely, a first end face 11 and a second end face 11';
• - two side parts 12 . 12' namely, a first side part 12 and a second side part 12' , with the side parts 12 . 12' both wider and longer than the faces 11 . 11' and thus in the direction of the respective first bending line A, A ', A "over the end face adjacent thereto 11 . 11' protrude;
• - eight freestanding tabs 13 . 13' , each one a rest window 131 , 131 ', wherein the tabs 13 . 13' through slots 18 . 18' are separated, the number of tabs 13 . 13' as well as the corresponding number of slots 18 . 18' are selected by way of example and wherein the locking window 131 in four of the tabs 13 wider than the rest window 131' in the other four tabs 13';
• - Two on the one hand to a boundary line E, E 'and on the other hand on a second bending line B, B' to the respective side parts 12 . 12' adjacent reinforcement areas 14 . 14';
• - Two to the respective end face 11 . 11' at a third bending line C, C 'adjacent reinforcing surfaces 15 . 15' , such as
• - Each one to the respective reinforcing surface 15 . 15' at a fourth bendline D, D'adjacent flange 17 . 17' , the screw holes 171 . 171' having.

At the dashed lines shown second and third bending lines B, B ', C, C' is the first sheet metal part 1 folded by 180 °. This will bring each of the two gain ranges 14 . 14' on each one of the side parts 12 . 12' to lie and each of the two reinforcing surfaces 15 . 15' comes on one of the faces 11 . 11' to lie around the respective side part 12 . 12' or the face 11 . 11' reinforce accordingly. The dashed line delineation E, E 'thus represents a limit from which the tabs 13 . 13' then over the respective side part 12 . 12' protrude. The respective gain range 14 . 14' is with the corresponding side part 12 . 12' only connected to the common second bending line B, B ', so it is not otherwise attached to it, so not glued, soldered, welded, riveted, screwed or the like.

As a result, have the tabs 13 . 13' a correspondingly high flexibility, as it extends over its entire length, ie in the reinforcement area 14 . 14' in, one by one from the side panel 12 . 12' are bendable. By the length of the slots 18 . 18' is thus the length and thus the desired elasticity of the tabs 13 . 13' adjustable.

Together, the tabs 13 . 13' and the further amplification area 14 . 14' designated as cheek area, which is not provided with a reference numeral for reasons of clarity. The cheek area is thus through the six slots 18 . 18' largely divided into equally sized intervals, causing the tabs 13 . 13' are formed, so that the length of the tabs 13 . 13' the length of the slots 18 . 18' equivalent. The term "broad" in this context means that the slots 18 . 18' and thus also the tabs 13 . 13' over the boundary line E, E 'across the respective gain range 14 . 14' pull in, but preferably before the second bending line B, B 'ends. In other words, at least part of the gain range 14 . 14' through the tabs 13 . 13' educated. As a result, there is an overlap area that both the tabs 13 . 13' as well as the reinforcement area 14 . 14' is attributable to that area of the tabs 13 . 13' which lies between the boundary line E, E 'and the second bending line B, B'. This overlapping region thus has a dual function, because it serves on the one hand to enhance the stability of the base frame and on the other hand to increase the elasticity of the tabs 13 . 13' towards outward forces. In particular, this applies if the holding frame firmly mounted in a connector housing, for example, at its four screw holes 171 . 171' is screwed into the connector housing.

The side parts 12 . 12' also protrude in the folded state with one of their respective the second Bend line B, B 'corresponding bending edge over the end faces 11 . 11' out.

At the also shown in dashed lines first and fourth bending lines A, A ', A ", D, D'is the sheet metal part 1 bent at right angles. By the right-angled bend at the fourth bending lines D, D'the respective flange 17 . 17' formed, for fastening, for example, on or in a connector housing, not shown in the drawing, the Schraubbohrungen 171 . 171' having. The right-angled bend of the sheet metal part 1 around the first bending lines A, A ', A''provides for the closed shape of a base frame, which thus from the end faces 11 . 11' and the side panels 12 . 12' reinforced by the reinforcement surfaces 15 . 15' and the gain areas 14 . 14' , is formed. This right-angled bending takes place such that the cheek area outside the base frame, ie on the outside of its side panels 12 . 12' , is arranged.

To fix the closed form of the base frame, the second side part has to be finished 12' at the first end face 11 be attached, for example, by gluing, welding, soldering, screws, rivets or the like. Advantageously, this is done by setting multiple welds.

The 1b shows a variant of the first embodiment, a second sheet metal part 1 in an unbent state.

• – Die beiden Stirnflächen 11, 11´, nämlich die erste Stirnfläche 11 und die zweite Stirnfläche 11´;
• – zwei Seitenteile 12, 12´, nämlich die erste Seitenteil 12 und das zweite Seitenteil 12´, wobei die Seitenteile 12, 12´ sowohl breiter als auch länger sind als die Stirnflächen 11, 11´ und somit in der Richtung der jeweiligen ersten Biegelinie A, A´, A´´ über die daran angrenzende Stirnfläche 11, 11´ hinausragen;
• – die acht freistehenden Laschen 13, 13´, die jeweils ein Rastfenster 131, 131´ aufweisen, wobei die Laschen 13, 13´ durch Schlitze 18, 18´ voneinander getrennt sind, wobei die Anzahl der Laschen 13, 13´ sowie die damit korrespondierende Anzahl der Schlitze 18, 18´ beispielhaft gewählt sind und wobei das Rastfenster 131 in vier der Laschen 13 breiter ist als das Rastfenster 131´ in den anderen vier Laschen 13´;
• – die beiden einerseits an die Begrenzungslinie E, E´ und anderseits an die zweite Biegelinie B, B´ angrenzenden Verstärkungsbereiche 14, 14´;
• – jeweils den oben bereits erwähnten Flansch 17, 17´, der an die jeweilige Stirnfläche 11, 11´ an der Biegelinie D, D´ angrenzt, und der Schraubbohrungen 171, 171 ´ aufweist.

The second sheet metal part 1 differs from the first sheet metal part in that there are no reinforcing surfaces 15 . 15' and accordingly also has no associated third bending line C, C ', whereby the respective flange 17 . 17' with his screw holes 171 . 171' , thus on the fourth bending line D, D'to the corresponding end face 11 . 11' borders. Thus, the second sheet metal part 1 Following:

• - The two faces 11 . 11' namely, the first end face 11 and the second end face 11';
• - two side parts 12 . 12' namely, the first side part 12 and the second side part 12' , with the side parts 12 . 12' both wider and longer than the faces 11 . 11' and thus in the direction of the respective first bending line A, A ', A "over the end face adjacent thereto 11 . 11' protrude;
• - the eight freestanding tabs 13 . 13' , each one a rest window 131 . 131' have, wherein the tabs 13 . 13' through slots 18 . 18' are separated, the number of tabs 13 . 13' as well as the corresponding number of slots 18 . 18' are selected by way of example and wherein the locking window 131 in four of the tabs 13 wider than the rest window 131' in the other four tabs 13';
• - The two on the one hand to the boundary line E, E 'and on the other hand to the second bending line B, B' adjacent gain areas 14 . 14';
• - Each of the above-mentioned flange 17 . 17' , to the respective end face 11 . 11' at the bendline D, D'adjacent, and the screw holes 171 . 171 having.

At the dashed lines shown second bending lines B, B 'is the second sheet metal part 1 folded by 180 °. This will bring any gain range 14 . 14' on each one of the side parts 12 . 12' to lie around the respective side part 12 . 12' reinforce accordingly. The dashed line E, E 'thus represents the limit from which the tabs 13 . 13' then over the respective side part 12 . 12' protrude. The respective gain range 14 . 14' is with the corresponding side part 12 . 12' only at the common bending line, namely at the second bending line B, B 'connected, and accordingly not otherwise attached thereto, so not glued, soldered, welded, riveted or the like. As a result, have the tabs 13 . 13' a correspondingly high flexibility, as it extends over its entire length, ie in the reinforcement area 14 . 14' in, one by one from the side panel 12 . 12' are bendable. By the length of the slots 18 . 18' is thus the length and thus the desired elasticity of the tabs 13 . 13' adjustable.

Together, the tabs 13 . 13' and the further amplification area 14 . 14' designated as cheek area, which is not provided with a reference numeral for reasons of clarity. The cheek area is thus through the six slots 18 . 18' largely divided into equally sized intervals, causing the tabs 13 . 13' are formed, so that the length of the tabs 13 . 13' the length of the slots 18 . 18' equivalent. The term "broad" in this context means that the slots 18 . 18' and thus also the tabs 13 . 13' over the boundary line E, E 'across the respective gain range 14 . 14' pull in, but preferably before the second bending line B, B 'ends. In other words, at least part of the gain range 14 . 14' through the tabs 13 . 13' educated. As a result, there is an overlap area that both the tabs 13 . 13' as well as the reinforcement area 14 . 14' is attributable to that area of the tabs 13 . 13' which lies between the boundary line E, E 'and the second bending line B, B'. This overlapping region thus has a dual function, because it serves on the one hand to enhance the stability of the base frame and on the other hand to increase the elasticity of the tabs 13 . 13' towards outward forces. In particular, this applies if the holding frame firmly mounted in a connector housing, for example, at its four screw holes 171 . 171' is screwed into the connector housing.

The side parts 12 . 12' also protrude in the folded state with one of their respective bending edge corresponding to the second bending line B, B 'on the end faces 11 . 11' out.

At the also shown in dashed lines first and fourth bending lines A, A ', A ", D, D'is the sheet metal part 1 bent at right angles. Due to the right-angled bend at the fourth bending lines D, D'the flange is in each case 17 . 17' formed, for fastening, for example, on or in a connector housing, not shown in the drawing, the Schraubbohrungen 171 . 171' having. The right-angled bend of the sheet metal part 1 around the first bending lines A, A ', A''provides for the closed shape of a base frame, which thereby from the end faces 11 . 11' and side panels 12 . 12' , reinforced by the amplification areas 14 . 14' , is formed. This right-angled bending takes place such that the cheek area outside the base frame, ie on the outside of its side panels 12 . 12' , is arranged.

In order to fix the closed form of the base frame, the second side part must 12' at the first end face 11 be attached, for example, by gluing, welding, soldering, screws, rivets or the like. In particular, this can be done by multiple welds.

Since a holding frame according to the above embodiments can be formed solely from a single, one-piece stamped and bent part, is the first and the second sheet metal part 1 . 1 especially good for the mechanical production of the holding frame 4 suitable.

The 2a and the 2 B show in a second embodiment, two more sheet metal parts 2 . 2' namely a third sheet metal part 2 and a fourth sheet metal part 2' , Apart from the size of their windows 231 . 231' can the two other sheet metal parts 2 . 2' be similar in the present example, which also simplifies their manufacturing process.

• – Ein Seitenteil 22, 22´, das sich von einer ersten Stirnfläche 21, 21´ durch die erste Biegelinie A, A´ abgrenzt und in der Richtung dieser ersten Biegelinie A, A´ über die Stirnfläche 21, 21´ hinausragt;
• – ein einerseits an der zweiten Biegelinie B, B´ an das Seitenteil 22, 22´ angrenzender und anderseits durch die Begrenzungslinie E, E´ begrenzter Verstärkungsbereich 24, 24´;
• – eine an das Seitenteil 22, 22´ an der dritten Biegelinie C, C´ angrenzende zweite Stirnfläche 25, 25´;
• – vier freistehende Laschen 23, 23´, die jeweils ein Rastfenster 231, 231´ aufweisen, wobei die Laschen 23, 23´ durch Schlitze 28, 28´ voneinander getrennt sind, wobei die Anzahl der Laschen 23, 23´ und die damit korrespondierende Anzahl der Schlitze 28, 28´ beispielhaft gewählt sind und wobei die Rastfenster 231 in vier der Laschen 23, welche zum dritten Blechteil 2 gehören, größer, insbesondere breiter, sind als die Rastfenster 231´ in den anderen vier Laschen 23´, die zum vierten Blechteil 2´ gehören;
• – einen an die erste Stirnfläche 21, 21´ mit einer vierten Biegeline D, D´ daran angrenzenden Flansch 27, 27´ wobei der Flansch 27, 27´ Schraubbohrungen 271, 271´ aufweist.

These two other sheet metal parts 2 . 2' each have the following:

• - One side part 22 . 22' extending from a first end face 21 . 21' delimited by the first bending line A, A 'and in the direction of this first bending line A, A' over the end face 21 . 21' protrudes;
• - On the one hand at the second bending line B, B 'to the side part 22 . 22' adjacent and on the other hand by the boundary line E, E 'limited gain range 24 . 24';
• - one on the side panel 22 . 22' adjacent to the third bending line C, C 'second end face 25 . 25';
• - four freestanding tabs 23 . 23' , each one a rest window 231 . 231' have, wherein the tabs 23 . 23' through slots 28 . 28' are separated, the number of tabs 23 . 23' and the corresponding number of slots 28 . 28' are selected by way of example and wherein the locking window 231 in four of the tabs 23 , which to the third sheet metal part 2 belong, larger, in particular wider, are than the rest windows 231' in the other four tabs 23' leading to the fourth sheet metal part 2' belong;
• - One to the first end face 21 . 21' with a fourth bending line D, D'abutting flange 27 . 27' the flange 27 . 27' screw holes 271 . 271' having.

At the dashed lines shown second bending lines B, B 'is the third and fourth sheet metal part 2 . 2' each folded by 180 ° in a first direction. This will bring any gain range 24 . 24' on each one of the side parts 22 . 22' to lie around the respective side part 22 . 22' reinforce accordingly. The dashed line E, E 'thus represents the limit from which the tabs 23 . 23' then over the respective side part 22 . 22' protrude.

The respective gain range 24 . 24' is with the corresponding side part 22 . 22' only at the common bending line, namely at the second bending line B, B 'connected, and accordingly not otherwise attached thereto, so not glued, soldered, welded, riveted or the like. As a result, have the tabs 23 . 23' a correspondingly high flexibility, as it extends over its entire length, ie in the reinforcement area 24 . 24' in, one by one from the side panel 12 . 12' are bendable. By the length of the slots 28 . 28' is thus the length and thus the desired elasticity of the tabs 23 . 23' adjustable.

Together, the tabs 23 . 23' and the gain area 24 . 24' designated as cheek area, which is not provided with a reference numeral for reasons of clarity. The cheek area is thus through the six slots 28 . 28' largely divided into equally sized intervals, causing the tabs 23 . 23' are formed, so that the length of the tabs 23 . 23' the length of the slots 28 . 28' equivalent. The term "broad" in this context means that the slots 28 . 28' and thus also the tabs 23 . 23' over the boundary line E, E 'across the respective gain range 24 . 24' pull in, but finish before the second bending line B, B '. In other words, it is part of the gain range 24 . 24' through the tabs 23 . 23' educated. As a result, there is an overlap area that both the tabs 23 . 23' as well as the reinforcement area 24 . 24' is attributable to that area of the tabs 23 . 23' that between the boundary line E, E 'and the second bending line B, B' is located. This overlapping region thus has a dual function, because it serves on the one hand to enhance the stability of the base frame and on the other hand to increase the elasticity of the tabs 24 . 24' towards outward forces. In particular, this applies if the holding frame firmly mounted in a connector housing, for example, at its four screw holes 271 . 271' is screwed into the connector housing.

The side parts 22 . 22' also protrude in the folded state with one of their respective bending edge corresponding to the second bending line B, B 'over the respective first end face 21 . 21' out.

At the also shown in dashed lines first, third and fourth bending lines A, A ', C, C', D, D'these two sheet metal parts 2 . 2' bent at right angles. The right-angled bend of the two sheet metal parts 2 . 2' around the first bending lines A, A 'and around the third bending lines C, C' takes place in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, and thus ensures the U-shape of the sheet metal parts 2 . 2' , each from the side panels 22 . 22' , the first face 21 . 21' and the second end face 25 . 25' is formed. As a result, the cheek area is on an outer side, ie on one of the bent end faces 21 . 25 . 21' . 25' opposite side of the respective side part 22 . 22' arranged. Due to the right-angled bend at the fourth bending lines D, D'the flange is in each case 27 . 27' formed, for fastening, for example, on or in a connector housing, not shown in the drawing, the Schraubbohrungen 271 . 271' having.

The 2c and 2d put two modified sheet metal parts 2'' . 2''' namely a fifth sheet metal part 2'' and a sixth sheet metal part 2''' , These two modified sheet metal parts 2'' . 2''' differ from the third sheet metal part 2 or from the fourth sheet metal part 2' in that they are on their respective second end face 25 . 25' in each case via a further associated fifth bending line F, F 'an additional reinforcing flange 29 . 29' with appropriate screw holes 291 . 291' exhibit.

The 3a shows the two other sheet metal parts 2 . 2' namely, the third sheet metal part 2 and the fourth sheet metal part 2' in the bent state, whereby they each have the said U-shape and thereby together to form a holding frame, such as in 5 are shown, are joined together by being offset against each other by a sheet thickness so pushed into each other, that their first faces 21 . 21' and their second faces 25' . 25 each come to rest on each other and glued together over a large area, soldered, welded, riveted or screwed or otherwise can be attached.

On the one hand, in this way the holding frame in the region of the end faces 21 . 21' strengthened. On the other hand, so from the first two faces 21 . 21' and the two side panels 22 . 22' generates a base frame, which by the attachment of the second end faces 25 . 25' at the first end faces 21' . 21 is closed over a large area and therefore in a very stable manner and also for this reason has a particular strength. In particular, this applies if the holding frame firmly mounted in a connector housing, for example, at its four screw holes 271 . 271' is screwed into the connector housing. Furthermore, the base frame is in the area of its side parts 22 . 22' , in particular with respect to outward forces, by the respective gain region 24 . 24' stabilized.

In other words, the base frame so formed possesses both its closed shape and the reinforcement of its material on the front and side parts 22 . 22' . 21 . 21' a particularly high strength, especially if the holding frame firmly mounted in a connector housing, for example at its four screw holes 271 . 271' is screwed into the connector housing. The tabs 23 . 23' however, over their entire length, which may be the length of the associated slots 28 . 28' corresponds, unreinforced by the associated side panel 22 . 22' be bent away and thus have respect to the base frame outward forces a particularly great elasticity. For example, in such, in particular in the connector housing built or otherwise at its Schraubbohrungen 271 . 271' fixed, holding frame a greater force on the side part 22' attack to push it outward by a certain distance than at the flap 23' ,

Furthermore, a further embodiment not shown in the drawing is conceivable in which the support frame consists of more than two parts. For example, such a part may consist of a flange and a reinforcing surface, wherein the flange is then bent at right angles from the reinforcing surface. This reinforcing surface is then attached to an end face of the preferably one-piece base frame, for example glued, soldered, welded, riveted or screwed. Another part can then form, for example, the cheek area. This further part can then be attached to a side part of the base frame. However, it is important to make sure that the tabs are still wegbiegbar over its entire length of the associated side part despite this attachment.

The 3b shows the two modified sheet metal parts 2'' . 2''' namely, the fifth sheet metal part 2'' and the sixth sheet metal part 2''' each in a bent state in one of 3a comparable representation. These two modified sheet metal parts 2'' . 2''' differ from the other curved modules 2 . 2' in that the two modified sheet metal parts 2'' . 2''' at its second end face 25 . 25' each a right angle angled reinforcing flange 29 . 29' with associated screw holes 291 . 291' exhibit.

It is easy to see that when joining the two bent modified sheet metal parts 2'' . 2''' the respective flange 27 . 27' and the reinforcing flange 29 . 29' as well as the first and second faces 21 . 21' . 25 . 25' lie flat against each other and thus attached to each other, for example, glued, soldered, welded, riveted or screwed, can be.

The 4a and the 4b show an insertable into the holding frame module 3 in a possible design from two different views. Of course, other modules in similar design can be used.

The module 3 owns on a first longitudinal side 32 a first catch 31 for latching in a first latch window 131 . 231 . 431 is provided. On one of these first long side 32 opposite second longitudinal side 32' owns the module 3 a second catch 31' which is narrower than the first catch. Furthermore, the module is very compact, which improves its heat resistance. Due to the shape of the locking lugs 31 . 31' and the shape of the windows 131 . 131' . 231 . 231 . 431 . 431' is the orientation of the module 3 set in the frame.

The 5 shows a holding frame, which consists of the two other sheet metal parts 2 . 2' namely the third sheet metal part 2 and the fourth sheet metal part 2' as they are in the 2a . 2 B and 3 are shown formed. In another embodiment, it could also consist of a single first sheet metal part 1 . 1 as they are in 1a and 1b are shown, or alternatively from a variety of items, ie consist of more than two items.

This holding frame has a first area B1, formed from the rectangular cross-section base frame, and a second area B2, formed from the two outer cheek areas. It is easily recognizable that the cheek areas with their respective reinforcement area 24 . 24' reinforce the base frame against outward forces, but are bendable outward even unreinforced. In particular, the tabs 23 . 23' together with their overlap area independently bendable outwards with a relatively small force.

Advantageously, the built-in a connector housing, so at its Schraubbohrungen 271 . 271' fixed, base frame so for example at the center of its side surfaces 22 . 22' an outwardly directed deflection to oppose a force that is greater than the force that is necessary to a tab 23 . 23' in the area of their window to move the same distance to the outside.

,

From the perspective shown is only the second side part 22' to see because the first side part 22 through the cheek area with the reinforcement area 24 and the corresponding tabs 23 is covered. In contrast, the two faces 21 . 21' at least partially seen. At the end of each face 21 . 21' is the flange 27 . 27' bent, each of the two screw holes 271 . 271' having. Each of the side panels 22 . 22' is thus by the associated gain range 24 . 24' by means of the folding which has taken place at the second bending edge B, B '. Thus, part of the gain range 24 . 24' from the overlapping area of the tabs 23 . 23' educated. The side parts 22 . 22' and the gain areas 24 . 24' protrude with their second bending line B, B 'corresponding bending edges respectively over the end of the end face 21' out.

The first faces 21 . 21' are by mating with the second end faces 25 . 25' the other sheet metal part 2 . 2' reinforced, as it also from the 3 evident. You could alternatively in the case of a one-piece frame, ie only from a single sheet metal part 1 is formed, even by folding from a respective adjacent reinforcing surface 15 . 15' be formed, as for example in 1 is shown. It could also be added to the end face as a separate component in one of the alternative embodiment, a reinforcing surface, wherein the flange would advantageously be angled perpendicularly from the reinforcing surface.

Thus, the first area B1, namely the base frame, for a number of reasons greater strength than the second area B2. The first region B1 has this strength on the one hand due to its closed shape, which is due to the large-area connections of the first and second end faces 21 . 25' . 21' . 25 the two sheet metal parts 2 . 2' is realized, and on the other by the reinforcement of this first

Area B1, at least partially by means of the second region B2, namely the overlap region of the tabs 23 . 23' , he follows. In particular, therefore, in the distinction of the first Area B1 and the second area B2 also to note their functionality. The base frame, ie the first area B1, is formed by the reinforcement area, and thus also by an overlapping area of the tabs 23 . 23' , ie also of a part of the second area B2, namely of its amplification areas 24 . 24' , stabilized. In particular, he sets according to its intended function, namely the holding of the modules 3 , Outwardly acting forces by this gain to counteract a particularly large force. In particular, this applies if the holding frame firmly mounted in a connector housing, for example, four Schraubbohrungen 271 . 271' screwed into the connector housing, or otherwise at its Schraubbohrungen 271 . 271' is fixed.

The second area B2 consists of the cheek area and includes the unreinforced tabs 23 . 23' and thereby sets against the tabs with respect to the frame 23 . 23' acting force contrary to a much lower moment of resistance than the second area, namely the base frame. Thus, the second region B2 has a much higher elasticity than the first region B1. In other words, the holding frame has, for example, against a force from the inside against its second side part 22' acts a much larger moment of resistance than against a force from the inside against one of the tabs 23' suppressed. This can be explained in particular by the fact that against forces, from the inside against the side parts 22 . 22' Press, the moment of resistance of the respective side part 22 . 22' and the resistance moment of the gain region 24 . 24' of the outer cheek area to add a total resistance torque. This total resistance torque is thus of course greater than the moment of resistance of the respective side part 22 . 22' ,

The number of tabs 23 . 23' , in this case eight, is chosen as an example; for example, the support frame could also be six, ten, twelve or fourteen, or another even number of tabs 23 . 23' exhibit. Half, in this case those four tabs 23 , which are located on a first side of the support frame, have larger, especially longer, windows 231 on, as other four tabs 23' located on the other side of the support frame and their windows 231' relatively smaller, in particular narrower than the first-mentioned windows 231 and accordingly have a different shape. In particular, the first latch 31 of the module 3 as they are in 4a is shown by way of example, in a form-fitting manner in the larger window 231 and the second catch 31' as they are in 4b is exemplified in the smaller window 231' insertable. This is the orientation of the respective module 3 set in the frame.

The locking noses 31 . 31' So fit either form fit in the respective locking window 231 . 231' or are at least so insertable that the modules 3 can be fixed by them in the holding frame.

Is exemplary in the 5 a module 3 represented, which is locked in the holding frame by its catch 31 from the rest window 231 is included. Furthermore, it can also be seen that the tabs 23 . 23' towards their free ends are slightly bent apart, which is the introduction of such a module 3 still relieved.

The module 3 is thus kept particularly stable in its position by the particularly strong and stable first region B1, namely the base frame. Furthermore, the module is stabilized by the base frame in the area of its side panels 22 . 22' with its bending edge B over the end of the face 21 . 21' protrudes and thus in particular a strong leverage applies. The holding frame holds the modules 3 thereby on their long sides 32 . 32' a large area.

Furthermore, the module 3 therefore very easy to operate in the tabs 23 . 23' latched, the tabs can be easily diverged due to their elasticity both for locking and for unlatching with little force. In particular, those tabs can 23 . 23' , which lock a module, be bent apart individually, to detent the individual module again independently of other modules and thus release it again.

Because the tabs 23 . 23' are slightly bent away from the support frame at its free end portion of the support frame, the modules 3 particularly easy to insert into the holding frame. This will be a module 3 first between two tabs 231 . 231' introduced the holding frame and then slides with its two long sides 32 . 32' and in particular with the locking lugs formed thereon 31 . 31' at the bent away end portions of the tabs 231 . 231' along. As a result, the two tabs bend 231 . 231' briefly apart until the respective locking lugs 31 . 31' from the associated latch window 231 . 231' the respective tab 23 . 23' be recorded and thus lock in it. When recording the locking lugs 31 . 31' in the respective locking window 231 . 231' feathers the tabs 23 . 23' preferably back to its original position. That way, the modules can 3 individually locked in the holding frame or removed. At the same time is the respective module 3 in the holding frame in particular from the stable and fixed first area B1, namely the reinforced Base frame, held with great force. Thus, a very good ratio between holding force and operating force is achieved.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

 first sheet metal part

1

 second sheet metal part

2

 third sheet metal part

2'

 fourth sheet metal part

2''

 fifth sheet metal part

2'''

 sixth sheet metal part

11, '11'

 faces

21, 21'

 first faces

25, 25'

 second faces

12, 12', 22, 22'

 side panels

13, 13', 23, 23'

 tabs

131, 131 ', 231, 231'

 locking feature

14, 14 ', 24, 24'

 gain range

15, 15', 45'

 reinforcing surfaces

17, 17', 27, 27'

 flanges

29, 29'

 reinforcing flanges

171, 171', 271, 271'

 screw holes

18, 18', 28, 28'

 slots

3

 module

31, 31'

 first, second catch

32, 32'

 first, second longitudinal side

A, A', B, B', C, C', C'', C''', D, D', F, F'

bending lines

E, E '

 boundary line

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0860906 B1 [0004]
• EP 2581991 A1 [0005]
• EP 1801927 B1 [0007]

Cited non-patent literature

• EN61984 [0003]

Claims (25)

Metallic holding frame for a connector for receiving similar and / or different modules ( 3 ), characterized in that the holding frame consists at least partially of resilient sheet metal. Metallic support frame according to claim 1, characterized in that the support frame in one piece from a resilient sheet metal part ( 1 . 1 ) is formed. Metallic support frame according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding frame of two resilient sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) consists. Metallic support frame according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding frame consists of more than two resilient sheet metal parts. Metallic holding frame according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that at least one of the sheet metal parts ( 1 . 1 . 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) has at least one bending edge (A, A ', B, B', C, C ', D, D', F, F') at which it is bent. Metallic holding frame according to claim 5, characterized in that the at least one sheet metal part ( 1 . 1 . 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) is bent at right angles at at least one bending edge (A, A ', A ", D, D', F, F'). Metallic holding frame according to one of claims 5 to 6, characterized in that different layers of a sheet metal part ( 1 . 1 . 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) are arranged at least partially flat on each other by the sheet metal part ( 1 . 1 . 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) at at least one bending edge (B, B ') is folded by 180 °. Metallic support frame according to one of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that a plurality of sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) are arranged at least partially flat on each other. Metallic support frame according to claim 8, characterized in that said plurality of sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) are attached by gluing, welding, soldering, riveting and / or screwing to each other. Metallic holding frame according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding frame has at least: - two end faces ( 11 . 11' . 21 . 21' ); - two side parts ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ); Two cheek areas, each cheek area having a reinforcing area ( 14 . 14' . 24 . 24' ) as well as several tabs ( 13 . 13' . 23 . 23' ) having. Metallic support frame according to claim 10, characterized in that each tab ( 13 . 13' . 23 . 23' ) a latch window ( 131 . 131' . 231 . 231' ), which for receiving a detent ( 31 . 31' ) of the respective module ( 3 ) is provided. Metallic support frame according to one of claims 10 to 11, characterized in that the support frame comprises a base frame consisting of the two side parts ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ) and the two end faces ( 11 . 11' . 21 . 21' ) owns. Metallic support frame according to claim 12, characterized in that the base frame has a substantially rectangular shape in cross-section. Metallic support frame according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that each end face ( 11 . 11' . 21 . 21' ) at right angles of at least one respective side part ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ) is bent and that each cheek area on the associated side part ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ) is folded so that the gain region ( 14 . 14' . 24 . 24' ) each on the side part ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ) is arranged, wherein the tabs ( 13 . 13' . 23 . 23' ) over the side part ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ) protrude. Metallic holding frame according to one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that the holding frame consists of two sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) and that each of the two sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) a first end face ( 21 . 21' ) and a second end face ( 25 . 25' ), both from the respective side part ( 22 . 22' ) are angled at right angles. Metallic support frame according to claim 15, characterized in that the first end faces ( 21 . 21' ) and the second end faces ( 25' . 25 ) of the two sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) are attached to each other. Holding frame according to one of claims 2 to 16, characterized in that it is in the sheet metal part ( 1 . 1 ) or in the sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) is about stamped and bent parts. Supporting frame according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding frame has an electrical protective earth contact. A method for producing a metallic support frame for a connector, wherein the support frame for receiving more similar and / or different modules ( 3 ) is provided, characterized in that the holding frame is at least partially formed of resilient metal sheet. A method according to claim 19, characterized in that the holding frame is produced by stamping. Method according to one of claims 19 to 20, characterized in that the holding frame either in one piece from a single sheet metal part ( 1 . 1 ) by folding or from several sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) is formed by folding and joining. A method according to claim 21, characterized in that the sheet metal part ( 1 . 1 ) or the sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) in a first region B1 of the holding frame to a substantially rectangular in cross-section base frame, the at least two end faces ( 11 . 11' . 21 . 21' ) and two side parts ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ), are formed. A method according to claim 22, characterized in that the sheet metal part ( 1 . 1 ) or the sheet metal parts ( 2 . 2' . 2'' . 2''' ) have a second region B2 in the form of two cheek areas, which via the respective side part ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ), and the base frame thus at the side parts ( 12 . 12' . 22 . 22' ). A method according to claim 23, characterized in that the holding frame with its base frame a module received therein ( 3 ) in one direction and this module ( 3 ) simultaneously with tabs belonging to the respective cheek area ( 13 . 13' . 23 . 23' ) fixed perpendicular to it. Method according to claim 24, characterized in that the holding frame is the module ( 3 ) with its flaps ( 13 . 13' . 23 . 23' ) fixed by the module ( 3 ) on the tabs ( 13 . 13' . 23 . 23' ) locked.

Images