DE102017108431B4 - Holding frame for a connector and assembly method - Google Patents

Abstract

Holding frame (1, 1001, 2001) for a connector to accommodate similar and / or different modules (2), with: a base frame (10, 1010, 2010), which has a plane transverse to an insertion direction of a module (2) in the holding frame (1) defined, and at least two cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) which are attached opposite one another on the base frame (10, 1010, 2010), each cheek part (11, 11', 11", 1011, 2011) outside the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) along an outer side (101, 1101, 2101) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) in the insertion direction, around a lower edge (102, 1102, 2102) of the base frame ( 10, 1010, 2010) around, within the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) along an inner side (103, 1103, 2103) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) against the direction of insertion and over an edge (104, 1104, 2104 ) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) also extends against the direction of insertion, each cheek part (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) in its area extending beyond the edge (104, 1104, 2104) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) has at least one latching window (111, 1111, 2111) as a latching element for receiving a latching lug (21) of the module (2), wherein the cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) are designed for elastic bending deformation between an insertion state, which allows the module (2) to be inserted in the insertion direction into the holding frame (1, 1001, 2001), and a holding state , in which an inserted module (2) is fixed by engagement of the locking lug (21) in the locking window (111, 1111, 2111) at least along the insertion direction.

Description

The present invention relates to the field of holding frames for modules and, in particular, holding frames for a connector for receiving similar and / or different modules.

Holding frames are used to accommodate several modules of the same type and / or different from one another. These modules can be insulating bodies, for example, which are provided as contact carriers for electronic and electrical and possibly also for optical and / or pneumatic contacts.

From the pamphlet EP 0 860 906 B1 A holding frame for holding connector modules and for installation in connector housings or for screwing onto wall surfaces is known, the connector modules being inserted into the holding frame and holding means on the connector modules cooperating with recesses provided on opposite wall parts (side parts) of the holding frame, the recesses as Openings that are closed on all sides are formed in the side parts of the holding frame, the holding frame consisting of two hinged halves, the separation of the holding frame being provided transversely to the side parts of the frame, and joints being arranged in the fastening ends of the holding frame in such a way that the Screwing the holding frame onto a fastening surface, the frame parts are aligned in such a way that the side parts of the holding frame are oriented at right angles to the fastening surface and the connector modules are connected via the holding means Have a positive connection with the holding frame. In practice, such holding frames are usually manufactured in a die-casting process, in particular in a zinc die-casting process.

the DE 10 2015 103 563 A1 shows a holding frame for receiving modular contact inserts, wherein when a contact insert is inserted into the holding frame, a locking element with a bracket section is provided, the bracket section holding the contact insert in a blocking position in the holding frame against the direction of insertion, and the bracket section for removing the contact insert from the holding frame is movable transversely to the direction of insertion out of the locked position into a release position.

the EP 2 930 794 A1 shows a system connector that receives plug-in modules with electrical contacts held therein. The plug-in modules are inserted and held in a holding frame. The holding frame is integrated in the connector housing and can thus be protected against environmental influences. Furthermore, contrary to conventional arrangements in connectors, the plug-in modules can be inserted into and removed from the holding frame on both sides, that is, in the plugging direction or also against the plugging direction.

the U.S. 4,032,209 A shows a U-profile for the wiring of electrical devices, which has a large number of retaining clips on the edge, in each of which a connector unit can be mounted.

The pamphlet EP 2 581 991 A2 discloses a holding frame for connector modules, which has two frame halves which can be locked together by linear displacement of one frame half relative to the other frame half in a sliding direction, with corresponding locking means being provided on the frame halves which, when linearly displaced, lock the two frame halves together in two cause different locking positions in which the frame halves are spaced apart at different distances.

However, it has been shown in practice that such holding frames require complex operation during assembly. For example, such holding frames have to be unscrewed and / or unlocked from the connector as soon as even a single module is to be replaced. In the process, the other modules, whose removal was not even desired, may also fall out of the holding frame and must then be reinserted before the frame halves are screwed together and / or before the frame halves are locked. Finally, even before the frame halves are joined together, all the modules must be in their intended position at the same time in order to be finally fixed in the holding frame when the frame halves are joined, which makes assembly more difficult.

The pamphlet EP 1 801 927 B1 discloses a holding frame which consists of a one-piece plastic injection-molded part. The holding frame is designed as a circumferential collar and has several wall segments separated by slots on its plug-in side. In each case two opposing wall segments form an insertion area for a plug module, the wall segments having window-like openings which serve to receive projections formed on the narrow sides of the modules. Furthermore, a guide groove is provided in each of 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 are formed on the narrow sides and act in the direction of the cable connections, and below the Lock the side collar wall so that two independent locking means fix the connector modules in the holding frame.

The disadvantage of this prior art is, on the one hand, that it is a holding frame made of plastic, which is generically unsuitable for protective grounding, for example in accordance with the connector standard EN 61984, so that such a holding frame is therefore not suitable for installation in metallic ones Connector housing can be used. However, the use of metallic connector housings presupposes such a protective earthing and is necessary in many cases both because of its mechanical robustness, its temperature resistance and because of its electrically shielding properties and is therefore desired by the customer. Furthermore, it has been shown that the production of the aforementioned plastic holding frames by injection molding is at least difficult and can only be implemented with great effort. Ultimately, the heat resistance of such a plastic holding frame is not always sufficient for special applications, for example in the vicinity of a blast furnace.

In order to specify a design for a holding frame which, on the one hand, has good heat resistance and high mechanical robustness and, in particular when installed in a metallic connector housing, enables a corresponding protective earth, in particular a PE ("Protection Earth"), and on the other hand also a Comfortable operability, especially when replacing individual modules, is guaranteed in the publication DE 10 2013 113 976 A1 proposed to provide a base section (preferably made by die casting, e.g. from zinc or aluminum or a corresponding alloy) for fixing a received module in a plane and a deformation section (preferably a resilient sheet metal processed by stamping and bending technology) which can assume an insertion state and a holding state , wherein the insertion state allows an insertion of at least one module in a direction transverse to the plane in the holding frame and a received module is fixed in the holding state. Here, the base section and the deformation section are in each case at least partially formed from different materials.

By separating the material properties of the base body from those of the deformation section, such a holding frame allows greater flexibility through suitable material combinations.

The in DE 10 2013 113 976 A1 described holding frame, the deformation section is each formed by cheek parts, attached to the outside of a base frame, the cheek parts each having a bending line in their lower end area, at which the cheek parts are folded by 180 °, so that a final edge of the respective cheek part within the The base frame is located. To fasten the cheek part, it is provided here that the base frame has fastening pins on the outside which, when the cheek part is attached, engage in corresponding fastening recesses.

It has been found that when the cheek parts are bent open when one or more modules are inserted, a force acts on the arrangement of fastening pegs and fastening recesses, through which the fastening recesses can be released from the fastening pegs, this acting in conjunction with a force acting on the cheek part in the direction of insertion Force can lead to the fact that the cheek part is displaced in such a way that the fastening recesses are offset with respect to the fastening pins, so that there is no longer any secure fixation of the module or modules.

In addition, there is a desire to enable a tighter fixation of an inserted module, so that the holding frame as a whole becomes more resistant to an unintentional detachment of a module from the holding frame.

One aim of the present invention is to provide a holding frame which, on the one hand, is as largely as possible based on the teaching of the publication DE 10 2013 113 976 A1 associated advantages realized, but on the other hand, an increased security and durability of the holding frame is achieved.

It is therefore desirable to present a solution that allows, through suitable and largely independent choice of materials for a base frame and cheek parts, to have great flexibility in the design of the holding frame, the probability of the different materials being reduced Separately formed components loosen the base frame and cheek parts from one another or the holding effect of the cheek parts is limited or reduced in some other way.

According to a first aspect, a holding frame for a connector for receiving similar and / or different modules is proposed as defined in claim 1, namely with a base frame which defines a plane transverse to an insertion direction of a module in the holding frame, and at least two cheek parts which are attached to the base frame opposite one another, each Cheek part outside the base frame along an outside of the base frame in the insertion direction, around a lower edge of the base frame, inside the base frame along an inside of the base frame against the insertion direction and over an edge of the base frame against the insertion direction, each cheek part extending in its over the area extending beyond the edge of the base frame has at least one latching window as a latching element for receiving a latching lug of the module, the cheek parts being designed for elastic bending deformation between an insertion state, which allows the module to be inserted into the holding frame in the insertion direction, and a holding state, in an inserted module is fixed by engagement of the locking lug in the locking window at least along the insertion direction.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a method for equipping a holding frame for a connector for receiving similar and / or different modules with a module is proposed, as is defined in claim 17, namely with an insertion of the module in a base frame that transversely a plane defined for an insertion direction of the module into the holding frame, the insertion taking place between at least two stringer parts which are mounted opposite one another on the base frame, each stringer part extending outside the base frame along an outer side of the base frame in the insertion direction, around a lower edge of the base frame, extends within the base frame along an inside of the base frame against the direction of insertion and over an edge of the base frame against the direction of insertion, each cheek part in its area extending beyond the edge of the base frame as at least one latching window Having latching element for receiving a latching lug of the module, the insertion comprising an elastic bending of the cheek parts, which are supported by the base frame, to an insertion state, the method comprising an elastic deformation of the cheek parts from the insertion state to a holding state, the inserted Module is fixed in the holding state by engagement of the locking lug in the locking window at least along the insertion direction.

Part of the background to the present invention resides in the following considerations.

To better prevent it - with an arrangement like the one in the pamphlet DE 10 2013 113 976 A1 is shown - if there is an offset of the fastening pin and recess, provision could be made for the pin and the recess to be fixed to one another by suitable additional measures, for example by gluing or soldering. However, this does not allow the fixation by the cheek parts as such to be made tighter and, due to the additional work step, also means increased effort in the creation of the holding frame, which entails increased costs.

One would use the arrangement of the fastening pin and fastening recess or a comparable variant based on the teaching of the publication DE 10 2013 113 976 A1 relocating to the inside of the base frame, this would prevent the arrangement from being loosened when the cheek parts are bent open, but this would result in a deterioration in the tightness of the fixation, since the longer lever (namely up to the lower edge of the holding frame) the cheek parts would be even easier to bend. In such a configuration, the area of the cheek parts that is bent around the lower edge of the holding frame is also loaded. Particularly in the case of production using stamping and bending technology, it is to be expected that in this area at the lower edge of the holding frame, with repeated loading, material fatigue and thus failure of the cheek parts will occur more quickly.

On the other hand - with otherwise essentially the same dimensions of the holding frame - a tighter fixation could be achieved by making the cheek parts from a stiffer material and / or with a greater material thickness, although this would involve greater effort in the manufacture of the cheek parts - for example by punching and bending technology - would mean.

The inventor has realized that greater stability and better fixation of modules is achieved by arranging the cheek parts in such a way that they extend on the inside of the base frame and from there against the insertion direction of the modules. If the cheek parts are bent open when a module is inserted, the point of rotation or bending is on the (upper) edge of the base frame and no longer on an arrangement of fastening pins and recess or even on the lower edge that has already been deformed. The support of the cheek part by the base frame when bending up means that the corresponding spring deflection is as short as possible. In addition, the module being inserted counteracts a lifting of the cheek part from the inside of the base frame through its presence, so that - if provided - an arrangement on the inside comparable to the fastening pin and the corresponding fastening recess from the teaching of the publication DE 10 2013 113 976 A1 can be provided without fear of loosening due to the deformation of the cheek parts.

The base frame can also be made comparatively shorter (in the direction of insertion) - since the respective module is guided and held by the cheek parts. The base frame now holds the cheek parts, which in turn hold the modules.

The modules are thus preferably only received and fixed by the cheek parts acting as spring arms, which are arranged on the inside of the frame for greater stability and spring force, whereby a comparatively shorter spring deflection of the cheek parts is achieved, so that the construction " tighter ”.

The fact that the resilient area of the cheek parts is arranged within the base frame additionally increases the stability. In addition, the point of rotation and bending of the material is not in the lower, already plastically deformed area, but in the middle of the spring steel sheet. In addition, this area does not suffer material fatigue as quickly as the already plastically deformed (bent) area.

In an advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the base frame on the one hand and the cheek parts on the other hand are at least partially formed from different materials. It is not necessary but advantageous if the base frame is made (completely or at least partially) from a different material than the cheek parts. However, it is also possible that the base frame is made (at least essentially) of the same material or material as the cheek parts, the cheek parts typically having a smaller cross section, so that the base frame with the larger cross section and thus the larger Rigidity is a rigidity and stability of the holding frame as a whole, while the cheek parts are resilient.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the base frame is at least partially produced by die casting, in particular from a metal, preferably zinc or aluminum, or a metal alloy, preferably a zinc or aluminum alloy. The production of such a base frame - albeit with different contours in detail - is known from the context of known holding frames, with the known techniques advantageously also being able to be used with appropriate adaptations for the holding frame according to the invention or its base frame.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the cheek parts have or consist of resilient sheet metal and are preferably at least partially produced using a stamping and bending technique. The use of a punching and bending technique with resilient sheet metal makes it possible to manufacture cheek parts in a cost-effective manner that can be used within the scope of the present invention. In particular, the design of the locking window, any slots and any recesses or the like for fastening the cheek parts to the base frame can be easily created.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the cheek parts are positively, non-positively and / or cohesively attached to the inside and / or the outside of the base frame, in particular glued, welded, soldered, riveted, latched and / or screwed. Since the force acting when bending open the cheek parts when inserting one or more modules is essentially limited to the area of the cheek parts protruding over the edge of the base frame and a partially inserted module itself can already stand in the way of an undesired deformation of the cheek parts, the connection between Cheek parts and base frame are essentially freely chosen. Particularly preferred is a form fit attachment in the form of a latching, in which part of a cheek part engages in a recess or the like of the base frame and / or a projection or the like engages in a window, a recess or the like of the cheek part. Part of the positive fit is already achieved by gripping the cheek part around the lower edge of the base frame, so that it is sufficient if the latching merely opposes a displacement of the cheek part relative to the base frame in the insertion direction. The advantage of locking is that the steps required for assembly are minimized, but at the price that a corresponding geometry must be provided. The fastening is preferably located on the outside of the base frame.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, each cheek part has at least one slot running in the insertion direction, which separates two tabs of the cheek part from one another at least in part of the area extending over the edge, each of which has at least one locking window as a locking element for receiving the locking nose of the module. It is possible to provide a separate pair of cheek parts for each module to be inserted, each of which has a locking window. An insertion of a module into the holding frame or also a detachment of a module from the holding frame (which is essentially the reverse of the insertion) can then take place independently of adjacent modules or cheek parts. Is a cheek piece with one or more appropriately sized slots provided, the module can also be inserted or removed individually for each tab that is separated from an adjacent tab by the slot.

In a preferred variant of the above embodiment, the slot extends into the area of the cheek part, which extends along the inside of the base frame. When the slot extends into the interior space, which is defined by the base frame, the tabs above the edge of the base frame are designed as independently of one another as possible.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the holding frame has at least four cheek parts, two of which are each attached adjacent to one side of the base frame. Even if it is possible to provide a separate pair of cheek parts for each module to be inserted, each of which has a latching window, it can also be provided that several cheek parts are present on the opposite sides of the base frame or holding frame, with one cheek part then is again provided for one and / or more modules.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, at least one cheek part has a guide section, in particular at the end of the cheek part or on the locking window, which allows the module to be guided for centering between the opposite cheek parts when the module is inserted and / or on which the locking lug of the Module is guided along during insertion in order to deform the cheek part in the inserted state. The guide section improves the manageability for the user, since the user only has to insert the module to be inserted between the guide sections or between the one guide section and the opposite cheek part and during further insertion an expansion is caused by the action of force in the insertion direction. The user therefore does not have to take any steps to separately spread the cheek parts. The same applies to the case of automated assembly, which can thus be designed more easily.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, at least the area of each cheek part extending along the inside of the base frame is designed for at least partial contact with the inserted module to fix it between the opposite cheek parts.

In a preferred variant of the above embodiment, at least the area of each cheek part extending along the inside of the base frame has a spring section which is designed to rest against the inserted module and to exert pressure in the direction of the interior of the base frame. It is also possible that only one of the opposite cheek parts has one or more such spring sections for pressing the inserted module against the opposite cheek part, wherein it is also possible that the cheek parts alternately or in a different mixed manner have spring sections, then preferably per module only one spring section is provided in each case.

In a further preferred variant of the above embodiment, at least the area of each cheek part extending along the inside of the base frame is designed for a flat contact with the inserted module in the direction of insertion. If the sides of the module are in continuous contact with the cheek parts at least in one section, this already results in a spatial restriction that prevents undesired displacement of the module.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, each cheek part has one or more latching window areas, which extend beyond a latching window section of the edge of the base frame and which have at least one latching window, and one or more holding areas, each of which extends around a wraparound section of the edge of the base frame and fix the cheek part positively on the base frame.

With a combination of locking window areas, which are elastically bent when the module is inserted, and holding areas that extend around part of the edge of the base frame, the cheek parts on the one hand allow the introduction and secure holding of modules in or in the holding frame, while the cheek parts, on the other hand, are themselves securely attached to the base frame by a form fit, this secure form-fitting fixing being achieved by encompassing opposing edges or edge sections by elements of the cheek parts.

In a preferred variant of the above embodiment, the wrap-around section of the edge of the base frame is spaced further from the lower edge of the base frame in the insertion direction than the latching window section of the edge of the base frame.

In this variant, when the modules are inserted, the base frame extends into the areas between the latching lugs of the modules, so that the base frame here acts as an additional guide for the modules when they are introduced. With this you can the cheek parts, which are bent when the modules are inserted, are freed from performing their own guiding functions. In particular, the rigidity of the base frame protects the flexible parts of the cheek parts from damage due to incorrect insertion of a module.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the cheek parts are designed in such a way that the holding frame does not exceed a predetermined total width at least in an area from its lower edge up to a predetermined height, in particular beyond the locking window, even when the cheek parts are inserted, whereby the predetermined total width is in particular equal to the total width of the holding frame below the locking window.

In the area of the locking window, the cheek parts are bent outwards, whereby a suitable and advantageous design of the cheek parts, in particular in the area of the edge of the base frame including webs or the like of the cheek parts surrounding the respective locking window, can be achieved that even in the inserted state a free space available through an installation situation in an add-on housing is not exceeded. It is thus possible to mount a module in the holding frame even when the holding frame is in an installed state.

In another advantageous embodiment of an aspect of the invention, the outer sides of the base frame each have a step, in particular such that the outer surfaces of the cheek parts extending outside the base frame along the outer side of the base frame are aligned with a respective exposed outer surface of the base frame or the outer surfaces of the base frame outside of the base frame along the outside of the base frame extending cheek parts are offset from the respective exposed outer surface of the base frame in the direction of the interior of the base frame.

The base frame provided with such a step can also be described as being provided with a recess or a recess for receiving the cheek part on the outside. With the step or the recess or the recess it can be avoided that the grip around the cheek parts around the lower edges of the base frame results in a widening of the holding frame as a whole, the dimensioning of the step preferably so that the cheek part with the outside of the base frame.

Features of advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined in particular in the subclaims, with further advantageous features, designs and configurations for the person skilled in the art also being evident from the above explanation and the following discussion.

• 1 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung zur Illustration eines ersten Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Halterahmens mit teilweise eingeführtem Modul,
• 2 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung zur Illustration des ersten Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Halterahmens mit eingeführtem Modul,
• 3 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung zur Illustration eines Wangenteils eines zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Halterahmens,
• 4 eine schematische Ansichtsdarstellung zur Illustration eines Wangenteils eines dritten Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Halterahmens,
• 5 eine weitere schematische Ansichtsdarstellung zur Illustration des Wangenteils des dritten Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Halterahmens,
• 6 ein schematisches Ablaufdiagramm eines Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens zur Bestückung eines Halterahmens mit einem Modul,
• 7 schematische Ansichten eines vierten und eines fünften Ausführungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemäßen Halterahmens,
• 8 schematische Ansichten der Halterahmen aus 7 mit Modulen,
• 9 schematische Schnittansichten der Halterahmen aus 7,
• 10 weitere schematische Schnittansichten der Halterahmen aus 7
• 11 eine schematische Ansicht einer Abwandlung des ersten Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Halterahmens,
• 12 eine weitere schematische Ansicht der Abwandlung, die in 11 gezeigt ist, und
• 12 eine schematische Schnittansicht der Abwandlung, die in den 11 und 12 illustriert ist.

In the following, the present invention is further illustrated and explained on the basis of the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. Here shows

• 1 a schematic sectional view to illustrate a first embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention with a partially inserted module,
• 2 a schematic sectional view to illustrate the first embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention with an inserted module,
• 3 a schematic sectional view to illustrate a cheek part of a second embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention,
• 4th a schematic view to illustrate a cheek part of a third embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention,
• 5 a further schematic view to illustrate the cheek part of the third embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention,
• 6th a schematic flow diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the invention for equipping a holding frame with a module,
• 7th schematic views of a fourth and a fifth exemplary embodiment of a holding frame according to the invention,
• 8th schematic views of the holding frame 7th with modules,
• 9 schematic sectional views of the holding frame 7th ,
• 10 further schematic sectional views of the holding frame 7th
• 11 a schematic view of a modification of the first embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention,
• 12th another schematic view of the modification shown in FIG 11 is shown, and
• 12th a schematic sectional view of the modification shown in FIGS 11 and 12th is illustrated.

In the accompanying drawings and the explanations of these drawings, elements that correspond or are related to one another are identified - as far as appropriate - with corresponding or similar reference numerals, even if they are to be found in different exemplary embodiments.

1 shows a schematic sectional view to illustrate a first embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention with a partially inserted module.

The holding frame 1 includes a base frame 10 and on the base frame 10 attached cheek parts 11 . The basic frame 10 defines and encloses a plane transverse to an insertion direction of a module 2 (indicated by the large arrow in 1 ). Essentially, the base frame 10 a frame shape that is defined by two opposing side walls (in cross section in 1 shown) and two opposing transverse walls is determined, the base frame 10 may have further projections (not shown) that, in a known manner, enable assembly of the base frame 10 for example on a wall or other components of a connector (not shown) and / or a protective contact (not shown).

The basic frame 10 has an outside on each of its side walls 101 , a bottom edge 102 , an inside 103 and an edge 104 on.

One cheek part each 11 extends with an outer section 116 in the direction of insertion along the outside 101 of the base frame 10 to the bottom edge 102 around and along the inside 103 of the base frame 10 . The cheek part 11 also extends over the edge 104 of the base frame 10 from the inside 103 out against the direction of insertion. In this section of the cheek part 11 it has a latching window 111 to which a guide section 114 adjoins that compared to the rest of the cheek part 11 is bent outwards.

The module 2 has a substantially rectangular shape in cross-section, with two latching lugs on the sides of the module 21 are formed.

When inserting the module 2 in the holding frame 1 the locking lugs slide 21 at the guide sections 114 along and spread the cheek parts 11 on how to do this in 1 is shown.

During this spreading, the cheek parts become 11 bent outwards, the curvature of the cheek parts 11 in the area of the edge 104 of the base frame 10 begins so that only the part of the cheek parts 11 that is bent over the edge 104 extends beyond. With the module, which has already been partially introduced 2 is the cheek part 11 between the base frame 10 and the module 2 determined spatially, so that there is no or only a very slight bend here.

The relationship between cheek parts 11 and module 2 also shows that the module 2 only through the cheek parts 11 is held while the base frame 10 the holding frame 1 as a whole by holding the cheek parts 11 (and thus only indirectly of the module 2 ) Gives stability and rigidity.

2 shows a schematic sectional view to illustrate the first embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention with an inserted module.

Compared to the representation of 1 is the module 2 in the representation of 2 in the holding frame 1 introduced, with the locking lugs 21 of the module 2 through the rest window 111 the cheek parts 11 extend so that the module 2 in the parking frame 1 is fixed. The cheek parts 11 have here - because the spreading through the locking lugs 21 at the guide sections 114 is no longer given - reset to a relaxed state. The outwardly exposed guide sections 114 allow a user to adjust the ends of the cheek parts 11 to grasp and the cheek parts 11 spread apart in order to remove the module again, regardless of whether the cheek parts extend beyond the module against the direction of insertion, as shown in FIG 1 and 2 is shown.

3 shows a schematic sectional view to illustrate a cheek part of a second embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention.

The cheek part 11 `corresponds in its basic form to the cheek part 11 , this in 1 and 2 is shown. Just like this, the cheek part has 11 ' an outer section 116 (which extends along the outside of the side wall of the base frame in the installed state, see 1 and 2 ), which is followed by a bend and the inner section, which in the installed state extends over the edge of the base frame against the direction of insertion).

Deviating from the in 1 and 2 cheek part shown 11 owns the cheek part 11 `in a part that is located within the space defined by the base frame, a spring section 115 that pushes an inserted module (not shown) towards the interior of the Base frame loaded (ie to the left in the representation of 3 ). In addition, the cheek part has 11 ' in the area of the rest window 111 a guide section pointing inwards when installed 114 ' , which can engage, for example, in a corresponding recess of a module above its latching lug.

4th shows a schematic view to illustrate a cheek part of a third embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention.

Unlike the representations in 1 , 2 or 3 is the cheek part 11 " in 4th in a view that corresponds to a view from the inside of the base frame in the installed state.

The cheek part 11 " has three locking windows 111 on, between which there is a slot 112 extends so that the cheek part 11 " three tabs 113 which can be bent open substantially independently of one another.

5 shows a further schematic view to illustrate the cheek part of the third exemplary embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention.

In 5 is the cheek part 11 " shown from the opposite side so that the outer section 116 (the in 4th was hidden). The outer section 116 has three mounting recesses 117 on, into which, in the installed state, corresponding pins (not shown) of the base frame (not shown) engage, so that the cheek part is fixed in a form-fitting manner 11 " on the base frame results in a comparable form for a known holding frame with base frame and cheek parts in the publication DE 10 2013 113 976 A1 is described.

6th shows a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the method according to the invention for equipping a holding frame with a module.

In the method, a holding frame according to the invention (see for example 1 and 2 ) equipped with a module.

The method includes insertion 31 of the module in the base frame of the holding frame, more precisely between at least cheek parts that are held opposite one another by the base frame.

As shown in 1 and 2 is shown, each cheek part outside the base frame along an outside of the base frame in the insertion direction, around a lower edge of the base frame, inside the base frame along an inside of the base frame against the insertion direction and over an edge of the base frame against the insertion direction.

In addition, in its region extending beyond the edge of the base frame, each cheek part has at least one latching window as a latching element for receiving a latching lug of the module.

Introducing 31 includes elastic bending 32 the cheek parts, which are thereby supported by the base frame, to an insertion state (see 1 ).

If the module is inserted far enough, elastic recovery occurs 33 of the cheek parts from the inserting state to a holding state (see 2 ).

In this way, the inserted module is fixed in the holding state by engagement of the latching lug in the latching window, at least along the insertion direction (step 34 ).

7th shows schematic views of a fourth ( 7a) and a fifth ( 7b) Embodiment of a holding frame according to the invention. Details of these embodiments are in 9 and 10 illustrated.

The holding frame 1001 according to the fourth embodiment comprises a base frame 1010 , each with a cheek part on its long sides 1011 is provided. Also the holder frame 2001 according to the fifth embodiment comprises a base frame 2010 , each with a cheek part on its long sides 2011 is provided.

Common or mutually corresponding features of the fourth exemplary embodiment and the fifth exemplary embodiment are described jointly below, the respective statements applying to each of the exemplary embodiments, unless a deviation therefrom is specified or is obvious.

In their upper (ie opposite to the insertion or insertion direction, see 8th ) Area show the cheek parts 1011 , 2011 alternating locking window areas in each case 1107 , 2107 and holding sections 1108 , 2108 on. In these embodiments there are three grid window areas 1107 , 2107 in each cheek part 1011 , 2011 provided between four holding areas 1108 , 2108 are distributed. However, other numbers of locking window areas are also possible, depending on how many Modules are to be included in the holding frame. It can also be provided that there is a smaller number of stopping areas in relation to the number of locking window areas. For example, the outer holding areas can be omitted.

In every rest window area 1107 , 2107 the cheek parts 1011 , 2011 is a rest window 1111 , 2111 intended. The opposing locking windows are in a manner known per se 1111 , 2111 Executed in different sizes in order to define a clear plug-in orientation of the modules (see 8th ), although the locking window 1111 , 2111 and also the opposite cheek parts 1011 , 2011 can be identical to one another in terms of symmetry.

Above the rest window 1105 , 2105 there is a guide section in each case 1114 , 2114 of the respective locking window area 1107 , 2107 , the, as far as the locking window section 1107 , 2107 not otherwise bent around the cheek parts 1011 , 2011 to bring them into their inserted state when inserting the modules (see 8th ) comes into contact with a locking lug and is displaced by it.

8th shows schematic views of the holding frame from 7th with modules.

In the representation of 8th are the holding frames 1001 , 2001 of the fourth embodiment ( 8 a) and the fifth embodiment ( 8 b) each with an inserted and fixed module 2 and a module 2 illustrated that is not yet or no longer fixed.

The modules 2 have locking lugs 21 each for inclusion in the locking windows 1111 , 2111 the holding frame 1001 , 2001 are designed so that by the interaction of locking lugs 21 and rest windows 1111 , 2111 the modules 2 in the parking frame 1001 , 2001 are held.

9 shows schematic sectional views of the holding frame from FIG 7th and 10 shows further schematic sectional views of the holding frame from FIG 7th .

the 9 b) , 9 d) , 10 b) and 10 d) each show an enlarged view of one in FIG 9 a) , 9 c) , 10 a) and 10 c) specified part of the representation.

The figures show parts of the basic frame 1010 , 2010 and the attached cheek parts 1011 , 2011 shown, the section shown in each case through a locking window 1111 , 2111 runs.

Especially in the 9 b) , 9 d) , 10 b) and 10 d) can be seen in each case that the cheek part 1011 , 2011 starting from one level 1109 , 2109 on the outside 1101 , 2101 of the base frame 1010 , 2010 in the direction of insertion (see 8th ) to the bottom edge 1102 , 2102 of the base frame 1010 , 2010 and then along the inside 1103 , 2103 of the base frame 1010 , 2010 against the direction of insertion (see 8th ) extends.

The one on the lower edge 1102 , 2102 opposite edge 1104 , 2104 of the base frame 1010 , 2010 includes for each rest window area 1107 , 2107 of the cheek part 1011 , 2011 a latching window portion 1105 , 2105 and accordingly to each stopping area 1108 , 2108 of the cheek part 1011 , 2011 a wraparound section 1106 , 2106 .

When deforming the locking window area 1107 , 2107 this is based on the locking window section 1105 , 2105 from, so that the resulting lever arm results in a corresponding rigidity.

The holding area 1108 , 2108 extends in the corresponding wrap-around section 1106 , 2106 around the edge 1104 , 2104 of the base frame 1010 , 2010 around so that the respective cheek part 1011 , 2011 form-fitting on the base frame 1010 , 2010 is fixed.

In the fourth embodiment (see in particular 9 b) and 10 b) ) is the guide section 1114 over webs with the rest of the cheek part 1011 connected, these webs in the area of the edge 1104/1105 each have two kinks (or arcs) so that they, like the guide section 1114 , above the kink close to and roughly parallel to the outside 1101 of the base frame 1010 get lost. Also in the fifth embodiment (see in particular 9 d) and 10 d) ) is the guide section 2114 over webs with the rest of the cheek part 2011 tied together. As in the fourth exemplary embodiment, the webs point in the area of the edge 2104/2105 first a bend towards the outside 2101 of the base frame 2010 on. In contrast to the fourth exemplary embodiment, in the unloaded state the webs then initially run obliquely in the direction of the outside 2101 , with another kink at the transition to the guide section 2114 is provided in such a way that one plane defined by the webs and one by the guide section 2114 defined plane to each other include an obtuse angle.

In contrast to the fourth exemplary embodiment, the latching window section 2105 the edge of the base frame 2010 a protrusion opposite to the part of the locking window portion 2105 , at which the webs of the latching window area 2107 against the direction of insertion protrudes. The locking lug lies on this projection 21 when the module is plugged in 2 at. The latch 21 is thus between the projection of the base frame 2010 and the management area 2114 as the upper limit of the locking window 2111 held. This has the advantage that a possible load on the holding frame 2001 , for example by pulling on the module 2 in the direction of insertion, from the mechanically stronger base frame 2010 and not from the cheek part formed from sheet metal 2011 is recorded.

11 shows a schematic view of a modification of the first embodiment of the holding frame according to the invention, wherein 12th Figure 9 shows another schematic view of this modification. 12th FIG. 11 is a schematic sectional view of the modification shown in FIGS 11 and 12th is illustrated.

As already discussed above with regard to the first exemplary embodiment, the cheek parts extend 11 of the holding frame 1 each on one outside 101 of the base frame 10 along in the direction of insertion to the lower edge 102 of the base frame 10 around and then along the inside 103 of the base frame 10 against the direction of insertion or insertion over the edge 104 out.

Similar to the fourth and fifth exemplary embodiment, the edge 104 a latching window portion 105 and a wrap-around portion 106 on, each with a locking window 111 above the locking window section 105 the edge 104 is provided.

In the 11 until 13th is an inserted module 2 to recognize its locking lugs 21 in the fixed state in a corresponding locking window 111 are included.

Furthermore, similar to the fourth and fifth exemplary embodiments, the cheek parts comprise 11 several locking window areas each 107 and multiple holding areas 108 , with the holding areas 108 each to form a form fit around the wrap-around section 106 the edge 104 of the base frame 11 extend.

The tabs described above 113 correspond in their function to the locking window areas 107 , with a difference to the embodiment shown in 4th and 5 is illustrated, is that between the locking window areas 107 not just one slot at a time 112 , but also a holding area for the cheek part 11 is provided.

Even if various aspects or features of the invention are each shown in combination in the figures, it is clear to the person skilled in the art - unless stated otherwise - that the combinations shown and discussed are not the only possible ones. In particular, corresponding units or feature complexes from different exemplary embodiments can be exchanged with one another.

List of reference symbols

1

Holding frame

2

module

10

Base frame

11

Cheek part

11 '

Cheek part

11 "

Cheek part

21

Locking lug

31

Introduce a module

32

elastic bending

33

elastic recovery

34

Fixation of the module

101

Outside of the base frame

102

Lower edge of the base frame

103

Inside of the base frame

104

Edge of the base frame

105

Locking window section

106

Wrap-around section

107

Rest window area

108

Holding area

111

Rest window

112

slot

113

Tab

114

Guide section

114 '

Guide section

115

Spring section

116

External section of the cheek part

117

Mounting recess

1001

Holding frame

1010

Base frame

1011

Cheek part

1101

Outside of the base frame

1102

Lower edge of the base frame

1103

Inside of the base frame

1104

Edge of the base frame

1105

Locking window section

1106

Wrap-around section

1107

Rest window area

1108

Holding area

1109

step

1111

Rest window

1114

Guide section

2001

Holding frame

2010

Base frame

2011

Cheek part

2101

Outside of the base frame

2102

Lower edge of the base frame

2103

Inside of the base frame

2104

Edge of the base frame

2105

Locking window section

2106

Wrap-around section

2107

Rest window area

2108

Holding area

2109

step

2111

Rest window

2114

Guide section

Claims (17)

Holding frame (1, 1001, 2001) for a connector to accommodate similar and / or different modules (2), with: a base frame (10, 1010, 2010) which defines a plane transverse to a direction of insertion of a module (2) into the holding frame (1), and at least two cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) which are attached opposite one another on the base frame (10, 1010, 2010), wherein each cheek part (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) outside the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) along an outside (101, 1101, 2101) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) in the insertion direction, around a lower edge (102, 1102, 2102) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010), within the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) along an inner side (103, 1103, 2103) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) against the direction of insertion and over an edge (104, 1104, 2104) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) against the direction of insertion, each cheek part (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) extending over the Edge (104, 1104, 2104) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) has at least one latching window (111, 1111, 2111) as a latching element for receiving a latching nose (21) of the module (2), wherein the cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) designed for elastic bending deformation between an insertion state, which allows the module (2) to be inserted in the insertion direction into the holding frame (1, 1001, 2001), and a holding state are, in which an inserted module (2) is fixed by engagement of the locking lug (21) in the locking window (111, 1111, 2111) at least along the direction of insertion. Parking frame (1, 1001, 2001) Claim 1 , wherein the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) on the one hand and the cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) on the other hand are at least partially formed from different materials. Parking frame (1, 1001, 2001) Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) is at least partially produced by die casting, in particular from a metal, preferably from zinc or aluminum, or a metal alloy, preferably a zinc or aluminum alloy. Holding frame (1, 1001, 2001) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) comprise or consist of resilient sheet metal and are preferably at least partially produced using a stamping and bending technique. Holding frame (1, 1001, 2001) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) form-fit, force-fit and / or material-fit on the inside (103, 1103, 2103) and / or the outside (101, 1101, 2101) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) are attached, in particular glued, welded, soldered, riveted, latched and / or screwed. Holding frame (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each cheek part (11 ") has at least one slot (112) running in the direction of insertion, the two tabs (113) of the cheek part in at least one part of the region extending over the edge (104) (11 ") separates from one another, each of which has at least one latching window (111) as a latching element for receiving the latching lug (21) of the module (2). Holding frame (1) Claim 6 , wherein the slot (112) extends into the region of the cheek part (11 ″) which extends along the inside (103) of the base frame (10). Holding frame (1) according to one of the preceding claims, with at least four cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 "), two of which are each attached adjacent to one side of the base frame (10). Holding frame (1, 1001, 2001) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one cheek part (11, 11 ', 1011, 2011) has a guide section (114, 114', 1114, 2114), in particular at the end of the cheek part (11, 1011, 2011) or on the latching window (111) which, when the module (2) is introduced, allows the module (2) to be guided for centering between the opposing cheek parts (11, 11 ', 1011, 2011) and / or on which the latching lug (21) of the module (2) is guided along during insertion in order to deform the cheek part (11, 11 ', 1011, 2011) into the inserted state. Holding frame (1, 1001, 2001) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the area of each cheek part (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) is designed for at least partial contact with the inserted module (2) to fix it between the opposite cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011). Holding frame (1) Claim 10 , wherein at least the area of each cheek part (11 ') extending along the inside (103) of the base frame (10) has a spring section (115) which is designed to rest against the inserted module (2) and to exert pressure in the direction of the interior of the Base frame (10) is designed. Parking frame (1, 1001, 2001) Claim 10 , at least the area of each cheek part (11, 11 ", 1011, 2011) extending along the inside (103, 1103, 2103) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) for a flat contact with the inserted module ( 2) is designed. Holding frame (1001, 2001) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each cheek part (1011, 2011) has one or more latching window areas (1107, 2107) which extend over a latching window section (1105, 2105) of the edge (1104, 2104) of the base frame ( 1010, 2010) and which have at least one latching window (1111, 2111), and one or more holding areas (1108, 2108), each of which extends around a wrap-around section (1106, 2106) of the edge (1104, 2104) of the base frame (1010, 2010) extend around and fix the cheek part (1011, 2011) in a form-fitting manner on the base frame (1010, 2010). Parking frame (1001, 2001) Claim 13 , wherein the wrap-around section (1106, 2106) of the edge (1104, 2104) of the base frame (1010, 2010) in the insertion direction further from the lower edge (1102, 2102) of the base frame (1010, 2010) than the latching window section (1105, 2105) of the Edge (1104, 2104) of the base frame (1010, 2010) is spaced. Holding frame (1001, 2001) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cheek parts (1011, 2011) are designed such that the holding frame (1001, 2001) at least in an area from its lower edge up to a predetermined height, in particular up to the locking window (1111, 2111), even when the cheek parts (1011, 2011) are inserted, does not exceed a predetermined total width, the predetermined total width in particular being equal to the total width of the holding frame (1001, 2001) below the locking window (1111, 2111). Holding frame (1001, 2001) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sides (1101, 2101) of the base frame (1010, 2010) each have a step (1109, 2109), in particular such that the outer surfaces of the outside of the base frame (1010 , 2010) along the outside of the base frame (1010, 2010) extending cheek parts (1011, 2011) are aligned with a respective exposed outside surface of the base frame (1010, 2010) or the outside surfaces of the outside of the base frame (1010, 2010) along the outside of the Base frame (1010, 2010) extending cheek parts (1011, 2011) are offset from the respective exposed outer surface of the base frame (1010, 2010) in the direction of the interior of the base frame (1010, 2010). A method for equipping a holding frame (1, 1001, 2001) for a connector for receiving similar and / or different modules (2) with a module (2), with: an insertion (31) of the module (2) into a base frame (10) , 1010, 2010), which defines a plane transverse to an insertion direction of the module (2) in the holding frame (1, 1001, 2001), the insertion (31) between at least two cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011 , 2011), which are mounted opposite one another on the base frame (10, 1010, 2010), each cheek part (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) outside the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) along an outside (101, 1101, 2101) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) in the insertion direction, around a lower edge (102, 1102, 2102) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010), within the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) ) along an inside (103) of the base frame (10) opposite to the direction of insertion and over an edge (104, 1104, 2104) of the base frame (10, 1 010, 2010) against the direction of insertion, each cheek part (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) extending beyond the edge (104, 1104, 2104) of the base frame (10, 1010, 2010) Area has at least one latching window (111, 1111, 2111) as a latching element for receiving a latching nose (21) of the module (2), wherein the insertion (31) comprises an elastic bending (32) of the cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011), which are thereby supported by the base frame (10, 1010, 2010), to an insertion state, wherein the The method comprises elastic recovery (33) of the cheek parts (11, 11 ', 11 ", 1011, 2011) from the inserted state to a holding state, the inserted module (2) in the holding state by engagement of the latching lug (21) in the latching window (111, 1111, 2111) is fixed at least along the insertion direction.

Images