DE102018119999A1 - Electrical contact device for an electrical cable - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical contact device (2) for an electrical cable, in particular for the vehicle area, with an electromechanical contact box (10) which has at least two inner electromechanical contact areas (110, 120) arranged in the longitudinal direction (Lr) of the contact device (2). The contact box (10) is designed such that at least two of the contacting areas (110, 120) are mechanically coupled in the contact box (10) so as to be pivotable relative to one another.

Description

The invention relates to an electrical contact device for an electrical cable, in particular for the (motor) vehicle sector. The invention further relates to an electrical contact device for an electrical entity, in particular for the vehicle sector. The invention further relates to an electrical entity.

In the electrical field (electronics, electrical engineering, electrics, electrical power engineering etc.) there are a large number of electrical connector devices or connector devices, socket, pin and / or hybrid connectors etc. - hereinafter referred to as (electrical) connectors (also: mating connectors) referred to - known, which serve to transmit electrical currents, voltages, signals and / or data with a wide range of currents, voltages, frequencies and / or data rates. In the low, medium or high voltage and / or current range, and in particular in the vehicle sector, such connectors have to be permanently, repeatedly and / or after a comparatively long time in warm, possibly hot, contaminated, moist and / or chemically aggressive environments guarantee the short-term transmission of electrical power, signals and / or data. Due to a wide range of applications, a large number of specially designed connectors are known.

Such a connector and possibly its associated (e.g. in the case of a connector device or a connector device) or superordinate (e.g. in the case of a connector device) housing can be attached to an electrical cable, a line, a wire harness etc. (assembled electrical cable) , or on / in an electrical device such as. B. on / in a housing, on / on a lead frame, on / on a circuit board etc., a (power) electrical, electro-optical or electronic component or a corresponding aggregation etc. If there is a connector (with / without housing) on a cable, a line or a wiring harness, one speaks also of a flying (plug) connector or a plug, a socket or a coupling; if it is located on / in an electrical, electro-optical or electronic component, aggregation etc., one also speaks of a (mating) connector device, such as, for. B. an (installation) connector, an (installation) plug or an (installation) socket. Furthermore, a connector on such a device is often also referred to as a (plug) receptacle, pin tray, pin header or header.

Such a connector must ensure a perfect transmission of electricity, with mutually corresponding and partially complementary connectors (connectors and mating connectors) mostly locking devices and / or fastening devices for permanent but usually releasable locking and / or fastening of the connector on / in the mating connector or vice versa exhibit. - Furthermore, an electrical connection device for a connector, for. B. having or comprising an actual contact device (terminal; usually made of one piece or integrally, e.g. a contact element, etc.) or a contact device (terminal; mostly multi-part, two-piece, one-piece, made of one piece or integrally, e.g. a one- or multi-part (crimp) contact device), be securely accommodated in it. In the case of a (pre) assembled electrical cable, such a connecting device can be used as a connector (cf. above), that is to say without a housing, e.g. B. flying, may be provided.

Efforts are constantly underway to improve electrical connectors and their terminals, in particular to make them more robust and to design and / or manufacture them more cost-effectively. The housings of the connectors and their terminals are subject to a standard, such as B. the FAKRA standard (FAKRA: Fachkreis Automobil). So defines z. B. the LV 214 electrical, climatic, mechanical, corrosive and dimensional requirements for a contact system (family of connectors and / or terminals). An important reference variable for terminals is an electrical contact resistance, a relative change in a comparison with a desired state being an important variable. Problems arise here, for. B. with (high) vibration or (high) vibration-resistant high-pressure contact systems. - It is an object of the invention to provide an improved electrical terminal, in particular an improved electrical contact device for. B. for a (high) vibration-stressable high-pressure contact systems.

The object of the invention is by means of an electrical contact device for an electrical cable, in particular for the vehicle sector; by means of an electrical contact device for an electrical entity, in particular for the vehicle sector; as well as by means of an electrical entity; solved according to the independent claims. - Advantageous further developments, additional features and / or advantages of the invention result from the dependent claims and the following description.

The contact device according to the invention comprises an electromechanical contact box which has at least two inner electromechanical contacting areas arranged in the longitudinal direction of the contact device, the contact box itself being designed such that at least two of the contacting areas (of the Contact box and not a contact spring, see below) are mechanically pivotally coupled in the contact box. That is, the at least two contacting areas are mechanically set up in the contact box in such a way that the contacting areas themselves can be moved, pivoted or rotated relative to one another.

As a result, the contact area in the front in the plug-in direction of an electromechanical counter-contact device can adapt to or follow its movements in a counter-contact device to be inserted or inserted.

For example, the contacting areas can be against one another or the contact box can perform a pitching movement (swiveling / rotating movement about the transverse axis). Furthermore, the two contacting areas in the contact box are mechanically indirectly firmly connected to one another, the contact box preferably being designed in such a way that when there is a rolling movement comparable to the pitching movement (swiveling / rotating movement about the longitudinal axis) and / or yawing movement (swiveling / rotating movement about the vertical axis) of the two contacting areas, the other contacting area in question takes part in this rolling movement and / or yawing movement essentially without a major or substantial mechanical change in shape of the contact box.

This also applies to the box sections identified below and / or a swivel range (see below) of the contact box. That is, This means that the contact box in the swivel range is comparatively elastic or soft when it bends around a transverse axis of the contact box and is inelastic or rigid when it bends around a longitudinal axis of the contact box and / or a vertical axis of the contact box (see below). Apart from another device formed thereon / in, the contact box can comprise a front, free or first box section and a rear, bound or second box section, the pivoting area being set up in the contact box between these box sections.

Such a contact device can also be referred to as a terminal. Here, the contact device can be used alone or as part of a z. B. multi-part, in particular two-part, but preferably one-piece contact device (also designated as a terminal) may be formed (see below). The contact box is used for electrical and mechanical contacting of the mating contact device (terminal), the contact device preferably being designed as a socket contact device.

The at least two contacting areas can also be combined in the form of a single contacting section of the contact device. B. are designed as a divided (see below) anvil. Characteristic of a contacting section is e.g. B. an area or an extension at the same height (level) in the contact box compared. a wall of the contact device, the surface or the extension preferably being provided parallel to an outside of the contact box.

These at least two contacting areas then ideally constitute the contacting section. Here, for. B. a first or front contacting area constitute a front area (from the front and possibly to a central area) and a second or rear contacting area constitutes a rear area (from the rear and possibly to a central area) of the contacting section. - Defined electrical contacting zones can be provided on / on the contacting areas, the contacting section or the anvil or can be formed by these or these (see below).

The invention discloses a solution for preventing loss of an electrical contact in an electromechanical (plug) connection on / in a contact area of the contact device. The invention further describes a solution for preventing loss of redundancy of contacts in an electromechanical (plug) connection. Here, the invention is such. B. on spring contact systems, (high) vibration-resistant contact systems (LV214, severity level 4 (181m / s ² ) and higher (> 181m / s ² ))), highly vibration-resistant contact systems, high-pressure contact systems etc. applicable. In particular, the invention is also suitable for (general) degrees of sharpness which are higher than those currently specified technically.

The at least two contacting areas which can be pivoted relative to one another can be formed as contacting areas of a bottom wall of the contact box, preferably opposite a contact spring and / or a top wall of the contact box. According to the invention, the contact box has at least one pivot axis, with respect to which the at least two contacting regions are set up in the contact box so as to be pivotable relative to one another. Depending on the design of the contact box and a type of mechanical load on or through the contact device, the pivot axis on the / in the contact box can shift (wobble).

The contact box is flexible and / or torsionally soft in the area of its at least one pivot axis in comparison with it directly remote areas in the longitudinal direction, in which the contact box is thus rigid and / or torsionally rigid. The endings, -soft 'and, -stiff' constitute each other in terms of their meaning, whereby, -soft 'mechanically softer (easily resiliently deformable) than, -stiff' and analogue, -stiff 'mechanically stiffer ((clearly) less well resilient deformable) as "soft" means. All that matters is a relation between the contact box in the region of its pivot axis and, in the longitudinal direction, directly opposite regions of the contact box.

The contact box may have a first box section and a second box section. The box sections can overlap each other in the longitudinal direction. That is, z. B. that a wall of a box section to another wall of this box section is formed longer or shorter, with a corresponding wall of the other box section being correspondingly shorter or longer. The contact box can comprise a swivel area (bending area) between the contacting areas, in a longitudinal force flow between the contacting areas and / or between the box sections. That is, further that the contact box is designed accordingly (type, shape, structure, geometry, material, etc.).

One / the pivot axis for the contact areas can be designed as a bending axis of the contact box. The bending axis is of course in an elastically bendable bending area in the contact box. A pivoting area of the contact box can be used for the contact areas by means of a joint, a fixed joint (see integral joint below), a bearing, a fixed bearing, an integral bearing (see integral swivel bearing below (integral joint, integral hinge, etc.)), a hinge or a one-piece hinge (see integral hinge ) be realized. Apart from a joint, the swivel range is preferably designed such that it allows the contact box to be fully elastically stretched, the contact box preferably neither buckling nor preferably bulging.

The contact box can have a swivel area set up between the box sections, the swivel area preferably comprising an integral swivel (fixed) bearing and preferably at least one through recess in at least one of the walls of the contact box. This integral swivel (fixed) bearing preferably also resembles an integral joint. An integral swivel (fixed) bearing (also: integral joint, integral hinge (see below) etc.) is understood to mean at least one bending area in a material layer of the contact box, in which the box sections can be bent elastically against one another (pitching movement). The pivot axis or the bending axis of the bending region extends in the transverse direction of the contact device and can furthermore have portions in the vertical direction of the contact device and / or in the longitudinal direction (wobble).

An integral swivel (fixed) bearing can also be defined as follows. When the contact device is destroyed, e.g. B. by a very high mechanical force in the vertical direction and / or in the transverse direction, the contact device breaks open in the area of its integral pivot bearing. In such a case, the integral swivel bearing acts as a predetermined breaking point. Nevertheless, such an integral pivot bearing can extend the life of a z. B. extend (highly) vibration-loaded contact device compared to a contact device without such an integral pivot bearing. Since a "softer" contact device with integral pivot bearing generates fewer opposing forces due to vibrations, this can have a favorable effect on the mechanical integrity of the entire contact device.

The contact box can be designed in such a way that a bending stiffness of one / of the pivoting area between the box sections is less than the respective bending stiffness of the two areas of the box sections directly adjoining it in the longitudinal directions. Furthermore, the contact box can be designed in such a way that in the integral pivot bearing, a circumferential material layer of the contact device is made shorter overall than the two circumferential material layers directly adjoining it in the longitudinal directions. As the name suggests, a circumferential material layer extends in the circumferential direction of the contact device, whereby in the three cases (integral pivot bearing and the circumferential material layers in the longitudinal direction before and after it), preferably a single complete revolution is decisive. - Depending on the design of the contact device, this can alternatively or additionally be applied analogously to a torsional rigidity of a / the swivel range.

An / the integral pivot bearing can be set up in a wall of the contact box. Furthermore, the integral pivot bearing can comprise a plurality of integral part pivot bearings. Furthermore, the integral part pivot bearing can be set up in the walls of the contact box. The side walls of the contact box are preferred. In addition, an integral pivot bearing or an integral part pivot bearing can adjoin a boundary of a passage recess. Such a limitation of a through recess is e.g. B. a longitudinal end of an elongated hole. A / the bottom wall and / or a / the The top wall of the contact box can be free of an integral pivot bearing or an integral partial pivot bearing.

The contacting areas can be arranged on / in the bottom wall at a distance from one another via a through recess in the bottom wall. A / the pivoting area can have an integral part pivot bearing in opposite side walls of the contact box. Furthermore, the integral part swivel bearings can be set up on the longitudinal ends of at least one elongated hole in one / the swivel area. That is, it can also be several, e.g. B. one, two, three or four, such elongated holes or through recesses can be used (see below).

In embodiments, an elongated hole in the circumferential direction of the contact device can extend partially into the first side wall, completely through the bottom wall and partially into the second side wall. A side wall preferably has a longitudinal end region of the elongated hole which, apart from a diameter extension of the elongated hole, extends from the bottom wall only in the vertical direction of the contact box. A side wall opposite this side wall can have a first region and a second region of a longitudinal end region of the elongated hole, the first region only extending in the vertical direction and the second region in the vertical direction and longitudinal direction of the contact box (again, apart from a diameter extension of the elongated hole).

In embodiments, a passage recess can extend completely through the ceiling wall in the circumferential direction and possibly partially extend into the first side wall and / or optionally partially into the second side wall. Here, the passage recess can be designed as a flat passage recess (in a comparison with one or the above elongated hole). A side wall preferably has a region of the planar passage recess which extends in the longitudinal direction and in the vertical direction of the contact box. A side wall opposite this side wall can be designed analogously.

In the vertical direction of the contact device with respect to the bottom wall, a / the contact spring can be set up in the contact box. Furthermore, the contact spring can have at least two contacting regions arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the contact spring can be firmly connected (for example, integrally, in one piece, etc.) to the first box section. In addition, the contact spring can protrude into the second box section. Furthermore, the contact spring can also be fixed in a rear region of the contact box (for example integrally, in one piece, etc.).

In such exemplary embodiments, the invention uses an integrated joint or hinge (integral pivot bearing, integral joint, integral hinge, etc.) between at least two contact areas, preferably on the same level of the contact device. Here, a relevant rotatable or swiveling contact area (below (see drawing) or above in relation to the drawing plane) is assigned to its corresponding contact area (above (see drawing: contact spring) or below, also in relation to the drawing plane) and / or connected to it without mechanically passing directly, preferably indirectly integrally.

According to the invention, there is compensation for a loss of electrical contact or a loss of redundancy of contacts in an inserted electrical connection (e.g. tab terminal inserted in socket terminal), the contact areas of which are preferably arranged on two levels (two-level Contact system, e.g. of the socket terminal). - In the prior art, such losses occur in contacting due to position tolerances of mating contact devices inserted in contact devices, which are also z. B. with (intensive, high-frequency, etc.) vibrations can not be avoided or only with great design effort.

An electrical advantage of the invention lies e.g. B. in that the electrical contacts of the / all contact areas are maintained. In this way, redundancy of contacts can be dispensed with. Furthermore, the invention prevents loss of electrical performance due to prevention of at least partial loss of at least one contact and / or due to changes in electrical processes within a plugged connection (see above), e.g. B. due to repeated loss of such contacting (mechanical wear due to intermittent contacting (vibrations)).

A mechanical advantage of the invention lies e.g. B. in that there is a compensation of normal forces over essentially all contact areas. The invention thus reduces mechanical wear on the contacting areas due to a reduction in rolling and / or relative movement processes on the contacting areas. Overall, there is also a high level of security in the event of vibrations. - In terms of production technology, the invention can be implemented simply and inexpensively in stamped parts, for which only an additional cut (elongated hole or through-hole) is required by means of a punching tool in question. Furthermore, the invention is easy to integrate into an existing contact system.

In the longitudinal direction, starting from a mating face of the contact box, the contacting areas of the bottom wall can alternate with the contacting areas of one / the contact spring, each diagonally opposite one another. That is, the contact box is designed such that in the longitudinal direction, starting from its mating face, first the first or front contacting area z. B. the bottom wall, in the spatial sequence a first or front contact area z. B. the contact spring, in a further spatial sequence, the second or rear contacting area z. B. again the bottom wall and again in the spatial sequence a second or rear contacting area z. B. in turn the contact spring in the contact box are set up (zigzag arrangement).

For a pivoting movement of the first box section relative to the second box section, or vice versa, in a positive and / or negative projection (pitching movement), the contact box can be designed such that at least one contacting area or the contacting areas of the bottom wall, and at least one contacting area or the Moving contact areas of the contact spring towards each other.

Is z. B. when inserting the mating contact device, the first contact area of the contact spring with respect to the drawing plane of the mating contact device is pushed upwards in the vertical direction (cf. 11 ), the first contact area of the bottom wall is also pulled upwards. Is z. B. when the counter-contact device is inserted, the first contacting area of the bottom wall is pressed downwards in the vertical direction by the counter-contact device with reference to the drawing plane (cf. 12 ), the first contact area of the contact spring is also pulled down.

It is assumed here that the contact device is partially moved (swiveled) out of its mechanically unloaded neutral position. Any air gaps arising in the prior art cannot arise here or are closed according to the invention. These static cases can be generalized for vibrations, z. B. is switched back and forth between these two cases depending on frequency.

In the neutral position of the contact device, the at least two contacting areas of the bottom wall can be set up essentially in one plane of the contact device. That is, they are equidistant from the bottom wall and / or ceiling wall, starting from their highest elevation. The same can apply to the contact areas of the contact spring. Furthermore, a contacting area or the contacting areas of the bottom wall can be set up essentially rigidly in the relevant box section.

The elongated hole can have an overexpansion stop in the bottom wall or the elongated hole itself can be designed as an overexpansion stop for the pivoting region. That is, the elongated hole has a narrow point in relation to directly adjacent regions of the elongated hole. At least one contacting area can have a plurality of contacting zones, which preferably (also) extend in the transverse direction of the contact device. Furthermore, the contact device can be made in one piece or integrally. The contact device is preferably also designed as a stamped and bent part.

The contact box or a box section away from the swivel area can have an additional swivel area set up, the additional swivel area preferably comprising at least one integral swivel bearing and / or preferably at least one passage recess in at least one of the walls of the contact box. This integral pivot bearing preferably also resembles an integral hinge. This additional swivel range can be designed analogously to the above swivel range between the box sections. Instead of mechanically coupled contacting areas, two zones or areas of the contact box or the relevant box section directly adjoining one another via the additional pivoting area are mechanically coupled. - The features of the above swivel range can be applied to the additional swivel range.

The contact device according to the invention has a contact device according to the invention, the contact device preferably being designed as a multi-part and / or preferably one-piece contact device. So the contact device z. B. pushed over their contact box of the contact device, a spring, etc. Here, the spring and the contact device are mechanically held together as two parts of the contact device, preferably in a single piece, that is to say the contact device. Furthermore, the contact device for example as a high-pressure contact device and / or a socket contact device, etc.

The entity according to the invention has a contact device or a contact device according to the invention. Such an entity is e.g. B. as a prefabricated electrical cable (see above), an electrical (mating) connector (see above), an electrical device, an electrical device, an electrical module, an electrical device, an electrical apparatus, an electrical unit, an electrical system, an electrical system etc. trained.

The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached schematic and not to scale drawing. Sections, elements, components, units, schemes and / or components, which have an identical, univoke or analog design and / or function, are in the figure description (see below), the list of reference symbols, the claims and in the figures (Fig.) Of Drawing marked with the same reference numerals. A possible alternative, not explained in the description of the invention (see above), not shown and / or not concluding in the drawing, a static and / or kinematic reversal, a combination etc. to the exemplary embodiments of the invention or a component, a scheme, a Unit, a component, an element or a section thereof can also be found in the list of reference symbols and / or the description of the figures.

In the invention, a feature (section, element, component, unit, component, function, size, etc.) can be positive, i. H. present, or negative, d. H. be absent, designed, wherein a negative feature is not explicitly explained as a feature, if it is not important according to the invention that it is absent, that is to say the fact that the invention was actually made and not the one constructed by the prior art is to omit this feature , A feature of this specification (description, list of reference symbols, claims, drawing) can be applied not only in a specified manner and / or manner, but also in another manner and / or manner (isolation, summary, replacement, addition, unique position, omission, etc .). In particular, it is possible to replace, add or omit a feature in the claims and / or the description on the basis of a reference symbol and a characteristic assigned to it, or vice versa, in the description, the list of reference symbols, the patent claims and / or the drawing , In addition, a feature in a patent claim can be designed and / or specified in more detail.

The features of this description can also be interpreted as optional features (given the (initially mostly unknown) state of the art); d. H. Each characteristic can be viewed as an optional, arbitrary or preferred, i.e. non-binding, characteristic. It is thus possible to extract a feature, possibly including its periphery, from an exemplary embodiment, this feature then being transferable to a generalized inventive concept. The lack of a feature (negative feature) in one embodiment shows that the feature is optional with respect to the invention. Furthermore, a generic term for a feature can also be read with a species term for a feature (possibly further hierarchical structure into subgenera, etc.). B. taking into account equivalence and / or equivalence, a generalization of the feature is possible.

In the merely exemplary drawing, the: 1 a crimp contact device (plug-in connection) according to the prior art which is plugged together with an electrical mating contact device under vibration stress (sectional perspective view); 2 a greatly simplified, front portion of a contact box of a contact device according to the prior art (mechanical equivalent diagram); 3 and 4 Findings made in the context of simulations of the invention with plug connections according to the prior art (side views of contact boxes for crimp contact devices broken away and cut away at the rear); 5 an embodiment of an electrical crimp contact device according to the invention for an electrical entity (perspective view); 6 three greatly simplified embodiments, in each case front sections of contact boxes of contact devices according to the invention (mechanical replacement diagrams); 7 to 10 a contact box according to the invention for a contact device according to the invention (bottom view, sectional side view and two side views opposite in the transverse direction); and 11 and 12 two deformation simulations of the contact device according to the invention (centrally cut side views without a ceiling wall).

Starting from a state of the art ( 1 and 2 ) the invention is based on exemplary embodiments of embodiments ( 5 to 12 ) a variant of an electrical (crimp) contact device, in particular for copper cables or aluminum cables, explained in more detail for the vehicle sector. Although the invention is described in more detail by preferred embodiments is described and illustrated in more detail, the invention is not restricted by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, but is of a more fundamental nature. Other variations can be derived from this and / or from the above (description of the invention) without leaving the scope of protection of the invention. Thus, the invention is also applicable to other contact devices in a non-vehicle area, such as. B. an electronics, electrical engineering, energy technology area, etc., and generally applicable in technology.

In the drawing only those spatial sections of an object of the invention are shown which are necessary for an understanding of the invention. Designations such as connectors and mating connectors, contact devices and mating contact devices etc. are to be interpreted synonymously. H. interchangeable if necessary. - Due to further developments of modern high-performance internal combustion engines, electrical and mechanical requirements for electrical connection systems are increasing. Conventional, proven electrical connector systems must e.g. B. withstand higher levels of vibration in demanding and harsh environments of modern vehicles. This applies to applications in high-performance engines with eight to ten cylinders, as well as for e.g. B. light, efficient internal combustion engines with smaller displacement.

The state of the art in 1 shows a vibration-loaded electrical connector 1 . 8th from a conventional contact device 1 and a mating contact device 8th , the mating contact device 8th between a contact spring 600 with two contacting areas 610 . 620 and a stiff anvil 630 in a contact box 10 the contact device 1 is recorded. Such a connector 1 . 8th shows an undesirable electrical behavior when used under vibration.

Simulations within the scope of the invention have shown that small air gaps arise and disappear from this behavior 800 between the anvil 630 and the mating contact device 8th is owed (see 3 and 4 ), the air gaps 800 with other frequencies arise and go away as a correlate to a frequency of the vibration load. That is, the air gap 800 have other causes than just vibrations.

A ( 5 to 12 ), e.g. B. straight (cf. 5 ), angled or curved contact device 1 for an electrical entity according to the invention 0 (see above) is preferred as a crimp contact device 1 formed, the preferably multi-part, in particular two-part, but in particular one-piece contact device 1 preferably as a socket contact device 1 or a receptacle 1 is trained. The contact device is present 1 preferably as a 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, preferably a 1.2 mm to 1.5 mm contact device 1, in particular an MCON contact device 1 (MCON: Multiple Contact) or an HPF contact facility 1 (HPF: High Pressure Flat, high pressure contact device 1 ) for electrical connectors or mating connectors, in particular mini connectors or mini mating connectors. Other sizes are of course applicable.

The contact device 1 is to be plugged into an electrical mating contact device 8th (see. 1 ) or counter contact device, which is preferably also designed as a crimp contact device or a crimp contact device. Here, the counter (-crimp) contact device 8 can be designed as a tab contact device, a flat plug, a pin or pin contact device, etc. - A contact device according to the invention 1 is present in the 5 formed in two parts and has a contact device according to the invention 2 and a spring 4 on.

The contact device 2 and / or the spring 4 is or are preferably each formed integrally or integrally. The spring 4 is on the contact device 2 in the area of your contact box 10 (see below) and preferably firmly attached to the contact device 2 connected. The spring 4 serves a coding, a primary locking, a secondary locking and a storage of the contact device 2 in a contact chamber of an electrical connector as or the entity. - Of course, the contact device 2 according to the invention can also be used alone. - For the explanations below is on a vertical orientation Mr or vertical axis Mr , a longitudinal direction Lr or longitudinal axis Lr , a cross direction qr or transverse axis qr and a circumferential direction ur the contact device 1 or the contact device 2 Referred.

The contact device 2 points from the front (mating face 13 , Front 13 ) coming an electromechanical contact box 10 for the mating contact device 8th , an electromechanical connection area 20 (also as conductor crimp area 20 identifiable) for an electrical conductor of a cable, and a mechanical fastening area 30 (also as insulation crimp area 30 identifiable) for electrical insulation (and possibly the electrical conductor over the insulation) of the cable. Between the contact box 10 and the connection area 20 as well as between the connection area 20 and the attachment area 30 assigns the contact device 2 preferably one transition area each 15 . 25 on. An electromechanical connection of the conductor can also be done without crimping, e.g. B. by soldering, (compacting) welding etc. to the contact device 2 respectively. That is, the contact device 2 does not need as a crimp contact device 2 be trained.

In the context of the simulations for the invention, it was found that the contact box had a geometrically rigid design 10 in the area of his anvil a smaller positive influence on a vibration resistance of the contact device 2 has as wished. This means that the invention is to take a different route to counteract the vibration loads. The invention now takes an opposite path and does not try to withstand or counteract the vibrations, but rather to 'follow them'. That is, also that according to the invention a contact box 10 a contact device 2 is too stiff according to the prior art. See. 2 that the contact box 10 in an area of his anvil shows a simplified view in mechanical replacement diagrams.

The invention is the contact box 10 in the area of his anvil compared to the prior art in which the contact box 10 is comparatively rigid, comparatively flexible (see above), which in the 6 is shown. Here the contact box points 10 a joint at a corresponding point ( 6 above), a fixed joint ( 6 below, so integral hinge), a bearing ( 6 ), a fixed camp ( 6 Middle, bottom), an integral bearing ( 6 Middle, bottom; so integral pivot bearing (integral joint, integral hinge, etc.)), a hinge ( 6 Middle) or a one-piece hinge ( 6 Middle, so integral hinge). Here shows the 6 three such places (front, middle and back third in the front of the contact box 10 ; 11 . 12 ), whereby of course other positions are applicable.

With one joint, up in the 6 shown, includes the contact box 10 at least two parts ( 10 . 11 ), which are mechanically coupled to each other via the rotatable or swivel joint in the contact box 10 are set up (two-part and one-piece contact box 10 ). - With a bearing or hinge, in the middle of the 6 shown is the contact box 10 integrally and preferably integrally formed over the bearing or hinge. The bearing can be flat and the hinge can be linear or striped in the contact box 10 be set up. - Furthermore, a warehouse, down in the 6 shown, more than a flat training in the contact box 10 have established what is preferred by the two integral connections in the 6 is made clear.

In the in the 7 to 10 illustrated embodiment of the invention is the contact box 10 longitudinal Lr in a front, free and / or first box section 11 and in a rear, bound and / or second box section 12 divided. Longitudinal Lr the contact box sits behind it 10 preferably continues, the transition region then being located at this extension or section 15 can connect. The respective box section 11 . 12 and / or the section behind it can or can in the longitudinal direction Lr may be further segmented, e.g. B. over at least one additional swivel range 700 (See below). Furthermore include both the contact box 10 as well as the box sections 11 . 12 a bottom wall 100 , a right and / or first side wall 200 , a left and / or second side wall 300 and a ceiling wall 400 , which can each have one or more recesses and / or passage recesses.

Between the box sections 11 . 12 or in a force flow in the longitudinal direction Lr between the box sections 11 . 12 points out the contact box 10 a swivel range 500 on, which is an integral swivel bearing 522 & 532 includes. Of course, a mechanical coupling mentioned above can also be used. Here, the swivel range couples 500 the box sections 11 . 12 like two chain links, e.g. B. a bicycle chain. The swivel range 500 or the integral swivel bearing 522 & 532 is about the transverse axis qr flexible compared to its lengthways Lr directly adjacent areas in the box sections 11 . 12 formed which around the transverse axis qr are rigid (see above). A position of the pan range 500 in the contact box 10 , i.e. a respective longitudinal extent of the box sections 11 . 12 depends on an application of the contact device 2 from. Here is the integral swivel bearing 522 & 532 also as an integral joint 522 & 532 designatable.

In the present case, the swivel range 500 longitudinal Lr between a front and / or first contact area 110 and a rear and / or second contact area 120 the bottom wall 100 in the contact box 10 set up, the swivel range 500 the two contact areas 110 . 120 pivotable against each other in the contact box 10 mechanically couples. The two contact areas 110 . 120 are present as two areas of a divided anvil (see the 8th ) trained, but can of course also have a different training (beads, contact points, pads, etc.). Furthermore, of course, more than two contacting areas on / in the bottom wall 100 be set up, with another such swivel range possibly being used.

The first contact area 110 is the first box section 11 and the second contact area 120 is the second box section 12 belong. Here are both the first contact area 110 as well as the second contact area 120 one piece or integral with a bottom wall 110 of the relevant section of the box 11 . 12 connected. As already explained above, the contact box sits down 10 longitudinal Lr behind the second box section 12 preferably continues, z. B. preferably a contact spring 600 (see below) in this rear area of the contact box 10 can extend.

In the vertical direction Mr opposite the bottom wall 100 or the contact areas 110 . 120 are a front and / or first contact area 610 and a rear and / or second contact area 620 preferably a contact spring 600 in the contact box 10 set up. Here, the contact spring 600 be designed as a contact spring connected on one side (spring lamella) or on both sides. Of course, more than two contacting areas can, of course, preferably be located on / in the contact spring 600 be set up.

A front longitudinal end section of the contact spring is preferred 600 fixed, in particular integral, with the first box section 11 connected. This can also apply to a rear longitudinal end section of the contact spring 600 apply, but with the second box section 12 , Alternatively, as here ( 7 to 10 ), the contact spring protrudes into the second box section 12 in or through and can be on the back of the ceiling 400 in the contact box 10 in or off the second box section 12 support (floating bearing).

The contact areas 110 . 120 the bottom wall 100 and the contact areas 610 . 620 preferably the contact spring 600 alternate lengthways Lr from each other diagonally opposite (cf. 8th ). Here is in the longitudinal direction Lr first the first contacting area 110 the bottom wall 100 provided, which has the consequence that with four contacting areas 110 . 120 ; 610 . 620 the second contact area 620 the contact spring 600 longitudinal Lr is provided at the back. Of course, more or less contacting areas can be used.

The swivel range 500 between the box sections 11 . 12 is a bending area of the contact device 2 formed by (at least) an integral swivel bearing ( 522 & 523 ) is constituted. In the present case, the integral swivel bearing comprises 522 & 523 two with respect to the longitudinal axis Lr and cross direction qr opposite integral pivot bearing 522 . 523 , each as a bending area of the contact device 2 are trained. Here are the integral swivel part bearings 522 . 523 as flat material areas in a relevant side wall 200 . 300 the contact device 2 between the box sections 11 . 12 set up.

In the circumferential direction ur are the two integral swivel bearings 522 . 523 of two through recesses 520 & 510 & 530 . 540 in the contact box 10 which further limits the contacting areas 110 . 120 and the box sections 11 . 12 mutually defined or from the contact box 10 free cuts.

Longitudinal Lr the respective integral swivel bearing extends 522 . 523 to the front and back integrally in the respective box section 11 . 12 into and 'gets lost' in this or merges into it. The passage recess is present 520 & 510 & 530 than an elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 and the through recess 540 as a flatly extending through recess 540 educated.

The slot 520 & 510 & 530 extends circumferentially ur completely through the bottom wall 100 ( 7 ) and preferably partially into the first side wall 200 ( 8th and 9 ) and preferably partially in the second side wall 300 ( 10 ) into it. The first side wall 200 has a longitudinal end region 520 of the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 on which starts from the bottom wall 100 essentially only in the vertical direction Mr extends. The second side wall 300 has a longitudinal end region 530 of the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 on which one with the bottom wall 100 neighboring area essentially only in the vertical direction Mr and a directly adjoining area essentially both vertically Mr as well as in the longitudinal direction Lr extends. Another course of at least a partial extension of the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 or the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 is of course applicable.

One through a perimeter of the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 , apart from being upright Mr and longitudinal direction Lr extending area in the second side wall 300 , defined plane is essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction Lr and extends in the transverse direction qr and vertical direction Mr , - The area-extending through recess 540 is essentially in the ceiling wall 400 furnished and lies the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 mainly or essentially opposite or is (somewhat) offset to this. The flat passage recess 540 extends circumferentially ur completely through the ceiling wall 400 through and may have areas that partially in the first side wall 200 and / or partially in the second side wall 300 extend. Furthermore, the flat passage recess extends 540 longitudinal Lr ,

The one in the first side wall 200 lying area of the flat passage recess 540 is exemplary in the 9 can be seen, this area being substantially rectangular in an upper (with reference to the 8th ) Section of the contact box 10 between the box sections 11 . 12 is provided. The corner areas of the flat passage recess 540 in the first side wall 200 are preferably rounded.

The one in the second side wall 300 lying area of the flat passage recess 540 is exemplary in the 10 can be seen, this area essentially inverted u-shaped from an upper (with reference to the 10 ) Section of the contact box 10 outgoing, in vertical direction Mr extends downward. The legs and the web of the U-shaped passage recess in the side wall 300 cut a tab-shaped contact spring support ( 8th and 10 ) free, the free longitudinal end section in the vertical direction Mr above (with reference to the 10 ) the contact spring 600 in the contact box 10 protrudes and for the contact spring 600 provides a mechanical center stop. The contact spring support is intended for a new contact device 2 a small air gap to the contact spring 600 have and a provision of the contact spring 600 Support after plugging in and thus reduce mechanical and / or thermal relaxation.

Through the two circumferential longitudinal ends of the two passage recesses that are in each case relevant to one another 520 & 510 & 530 . 540 , the long hole 520 & 510 & 530 and the flat passage recess 540 , are the two integral swivel bearings 522 . 523 in the contact box 10 cut free, defined or constituted. This allows the first / second box section 11 / 12 opposite the second / first box section 12 / 11 a pitching motion with the transverse axis qr execute as swivel axis (in each case in comparison with it in the longitudinal direction Lr directly adjacent areas of the contact box 10 ).

So that this pitching movement, ie a swiveling movement of the two box sections 11 . 12 towards each other, in a swivel direction is not too large, the slot can 520 & 510 & 530 an overstress 550 (only in 8th and shown in dashed lines), the diameter of the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 reduced. Alternatively or further, the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 in a section in its diameter direction (longitudinal direction Lr ) be more narrowly designed, which then also takes over a function of an over-stretching stop. This can be done analogously with the through recess 540 in the ceiling wall 400 for a swivel direction of the two box sections 11 . 12 to be realized on each other, which is opposite to the above pivot direction.

In 9 is a location of the bending area 522 or the integral swivel bearing 522 clearly visible. He or it connects the two box sections 11 . 12 longitudinal Lr integral with each other. Furthermore, he or she is on the one hand in the vertical direction Mr below by a longitudinal end of the longitudinal end section coming from below 520 of the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 , and on the other hand in the vertical direction Mr above through the flat passage recess 540 in the first side wall 200 cut or defined. The longitudinal end of the longitudinal end section 520 in the present case preferably has essentially the same longitudinal position as a front end of the planar passage recess 540 , which also extends further back. In contrast, it extends in the longitudinal direction Lr and vertical direction Mr extending longitudinal section of the longitudinal end section 520 forward in the longitudinal direction Lr from the flat passage recess 540 path.

In 10 is a location of the bending area 532 or the integral swivel bearing 532 clearly visible. He or it connects the two box sections 11 . 12 longitudinal Lr also integral with each other. Furthermore, he or she is on the one hand in the vertical direction Mr by a longitudinal end of the longitudinal end section coming from below 530 of the elongated hole 520 & 510 & 530 , and on the other hand in the vertical direction Mr due to the two legs coming from above of the flat through recess, which is reversely U-shaped here 540 in the second side wall 300 cut or defined. Longitudinal Lr is the longitudinal end of the longitudinal end section 530 arranged between the longitudinal ends of the two legs. In the vertical direction Mr is the longitudinal end of the longitudinal end section 530 (somewhat) arranged below the longitudinal ends of the two legs.

When using four contacting areas 110 . 120 ; 610 . 620 (Two-level system with zigzag, trapezoidal, parallelogram, rectangular arrangement, etc. of the contacting areas 110 . 120 ; 610 . 620 ) and the assumption that the rear contact area 120 the bottom wall 100 is fixed (contact box fixed), then the other three contact areas 110 ; 610 . 620 towards this contacting area 120 move. This can result in a plug-in direction S ( 5 ) an electromechanical mating contact device 8th front contact area 110 one to be inserted or inserted Counter-contact device 8th adjust or follow it in their movements. This also applies to the contacting areas 610 . 620 the contact spring 600 - This can be expanded to more than four contacting areas with at least one further swivel range. Furthermore, there is also only a single contacting area on / in the contact spring 600 applicable.

The 11 and 12 show two deformation simulations of the contact device 2 according to the 7 to 10 , where in the 11 the first box section 11 in the vertical direction Mr pushed up or pulled, and in the 12 the first box section 11 in the vertical direction Mr is pushed down or pulled. How good in the 11 and 12 towards the 8th can be seen, at least one contacting area 110 / 120 , especially the contact areas 110 . 120 the bottom wall 100 , and at least one contacting area 610 / 620 , especially the contact areas 610 . 620 the contact spring 600 moving towards each other.

As a result, the air gaps created in the prior art 800 effectively prevented. With one in a contact box 10 inserted mating contact device 8th are in the two borderline cases 11 and 12 all four electrical and mechanical contacts between the contact box 10 and the mating contact device 2 intact. This applies on the one hand to vibrations as well as to a slanted insertion of the counter-contact device 8th , e.g. B in the vertical direction Mr from bottom to top or from top to bottom in the contact box 10 ,

Furthermore, the contact box 10 an additional swivel range 700 have the z. Tie 7 to 10 , between the second box section 12 and that in the longitudinal direction Lr section of the contact box behind it 10 or depending on a definition of the second box section 12 , in the second box section 12 is set up. That is, here the contact box points 10 an additional swivel range 700 on, which is an integral swivel bearing 742 includes. Of course, a mechanical coupling mentioned above can also be used. The additional swivel range 700 or the integral swivel bearing 742 is about the transverse axis qr flexible compared to its lengthways Lr directly adjacent areas in the contact box 10 trained which around the transverse axis qr are rigid (see above). Here is the integral swivel bearing 742 also as an integral hinge 742 designatable.

The additional swivel range 700 couples the second box section 12 compared to that in the longitudinal direction Lr section of the contact box behind it 10 or two areas of the second box section 12 mechanically pivotable against each other in the contact box 10 , The additional swivel range 700 is also preferred as a bending area of the contact device 2 trained which by the integral pivot bearing 742 is constituted. Here is the integral swivel bearing 742 as a cross direction qr linear or a strip-shaped section of material in the ceiling wall 400 the contact device 2 set up. In the circumferential direction ur is the integral swivel bearing 742 present ( 7 to 10 ) from a single passage recess 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 in the contact box 10 limited.

The passage recess is present 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 essentially as an elongated hole 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 educated. The slot 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 extends circumferentially ur completely through the bottom wall 100 ( 7 ) through and also preferably completely through the first side wall 200 ( 8th and 9 ) and the second side wall 300 ( 10 ). Furthermore, the elongated hole 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 , starting from one of the side walls 200 . 300 (here the second side wall 300 ), partly in the ceiling wall 400 stretch in ( 10 ). The two longitudinal end areas of the elongated hole 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 lie on and in the ceiling wall 400 , Other embodiments of such an integral pivot bearing 742 are of course possible.

The first side wall 200 has a longitudinal area 720 of the elongated hole 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 on which is preferred in the vertical direction Mr and longitudinal direction Lr extends. Analog, in the transverse direction qr inclined in the same direction or in the transverse direction qr preferably essentially or essentially congruent to this, a substantial longitudinal region can be 710 of the elongated hole 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 in the second side wall 300 be trained. Inside the bottom wall 100 extends a longitudinal area 720 of the elongated hole 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 preferably only in the transverse direction qr , which is preferably analog for a longitudinal end region 740 of the elongated hole 710 & 720 & 730 & 740 in the ceiling wall 400 true. It can, in turn, be an overstress 750 , e.g. B. be provided analogously to the above.

The additional swivel range 700 can e.g. B. a (partial) mechanical decoupling of the contact box 10 from the connection area 20 and / or attachment area 30 inside the contact device 2 serve. - It is of course possible to have such a swivel range 700 in addition or as an alternative to the above swivel range 500 between the box sections 11 . 12 apply. Furthermore, it is of course possible instead of the additional swivel range 700 above swivel range 500 in the second box section 12 or in the section behind.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

0

(electrical) entity

1

(electrical) (crimp) contact device

2

(electrical) (crimp) contact device

4

by spring

8th

(electrical) counter (-crimp-) contact device

10

(electromechanical) contact box

11

(first) box section

12

(second) box section

13

Mating face, front

15

Transition area

20

(Electromechanical) connection area

25

Transition area

30

(mechanical) fastening area

100

bottom wall

110

(first) contact area

120

(second) contact area

200

(first) side wall

300

(second) side wall

400

top wall

500

swivel range

510

through recess

520

Through hole (optional)

522

Integral swivel (part) bearing, bending area

530

Through hole (optional)

532

Integral swivel (part) bearing, bending area

540

(flat) passage recess (optional)

550

Overstop stop (optional, only 8th )

600

contact spring

610.

(first) contact area

620

(second) contact area

630

Anvil (only state of the art)

700

(additional) swivel range (optional)

710

Through hole (optional)

720

Through hole (optional)

730

Through hole (optional)

740

Through hole (optional)

742

Integral swivel bearing, bending area (optional)

750

Overstop stop (optional)

800

Air gap (only state of the art)

Mr

Vertical direction, vertical axis of the contact device 1

Lr

Longitudinal direction of the contact device 1

qr

Transverse direction, transverse axis of the contact device 1

S

(Individual) direction of mating contact device 8th in the contact device 1

ur

Circumferential direction of the contact device 1

Claims (14)

Electrical contact device (2) for an electrical cable, in particular for the vehicle area, with an electromechanical contact box (10) which has at least two inner electromechanical contacting areas (110, 120) arranged in the longitudinal direction (Lr) of the contact device (2), characterized that the contact box (10) is designed such that at least two of the contacting areas (110, 120) are mechanically pivotally coupled in the contact box (10). Electrical contact device (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the at least two contact areas (110, 120) which can be pivoted relative to one another, as contact areas (110, 120) of a bottom wall (100) of the contact box (10), preferably opposite to a contact spring (600) and / or a top wall (400) of the contact box (10) are formed. Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact box (10) has a first box section (11) and a second box section (12), and / or the contact box (10) between the contacting areas (110, 120 ), in a force flow in the longitudinal direction (Lr) between the contacting areas (110, 120) and / or between the box sections (11, 12) comprises a swivel area (500). Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a pivot axis for the Contact areas (110, 120) is designed as a bending axis of the contact box (10), and / or a swivel area (500) of the contact box (10) for the contact areas (110, 120) by means of a joint, a fixed joint, a bearing, a fixed bearing , an integral bearing, a hinge or a one-piece hinge is realized. Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact box (10) between the box sections (11, 12) has a / the swivel area (500), the swivel area (500) preferably being an integral swivel bearing (522 & 532) and preferably at least one through recess (510, 520, 530, 540) in at least one of the walls (100, 200, 300, 400) of the contact box (10). Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact box (10) is designed such that a bending stiffness of a / the swivel range (500) between the box sections (11, 12) is less than the respective bending stiffnesses of the two areas of the box sections (11, 12) directly adjoining it in the longitudinal directions (Lr), and / or in the case of the integral swivel bearing (522 & 532), a circumferential material layer of the contact device (2) is generally shorter than the two directly on it the circumferential material layers of the contact device (2) adjoining the longitudinal directions (Lr). Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • an / the integral pivot bearing (522 & 532) is arranged in a wall (100, 200, 300, 400) of the contact box (10), • the integral pivot bearing ( 522 & 532) comprises a plurality of integral part pivot bearings (522, 532), • the integral part pivot bearings (522, 532) are arranged in walls (100, 200, 300, 400) of the contact box (10), and / or • an integral pivot bearing or an integral part pivot bearing (522, 532, 540) adjoins a boundary of a through recess (520, 530). Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the contacting areas (110, 120) are set up on / in the bottom wall (100) at a distance from one another via a through recess (510) in the bottom wall (100), the integral part swivel bearings (522, 532) are arranged on the longitudinal ends of at least one elongated hole (520 & 510 & 530, 540) in a / the swivel area (500), and / or • an elongated hole (520 & 510 & 530) extends in the circumferential direction ( Ur) of the contact device (2) partly into the first side wall (200), completely through the bottom wall (100) and partly into the second side wall (300), and / or • a through recess (540) extends in the circumferential direction (Ur) completely through the top wall (400) and possibly partially extending into the first side wall (200) and / or partially partially into the second side wall (300). Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • in the vertical direction (Hr) of the contact device (2) opposite the bottom wall (100) a / the contact spring (600) is set up in the contact box (10), • the Contact spring (600) has at least two contacting areas (610, 620) arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction (Lr), • the contact spring (600) is fixedly connected or formed to the first box section (11), and / or • the contact spring (600) in protrudes the second box section (12). Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the longitudinal direction (Lr) starting from a plug face (13) of the contact box (10), the contacting areas (110, 120) of the bottom wall (100) with the contacting areas ( 610, 620) alternate one / the contact spring (600) opposite each other diagonally, and / or for a pivoting movement of the first box section (11) relative to the second box section (12) into a positive and / or negative projection (Hr), the contact box (10) is designed such that at least one contacting area (110/120) or the contacting areas (110, 120) of the bottom wall (100), and at least one contacting area (110/120) or the contacting areas (610, 620) of the contact spring (600) move towards each other. Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • a contacting area (110/120) or the contacting areas (110, 120) of the bottom wall (100) are essentially rigid in the relevant box section (11/12; 11, 12) is or are set up, • the elongated hole (520 & 510 & 530) in the bottom wall (100) has an overexpansion stop (550) or the elongated hole (520 & 510 & 530) as an overexpansion stop (550) for the swivel range ( 500) is formed, and / or • at least one contacting area (110, 120; 610, 620) has a plurality of contacting zones, which preferably extend in the transverse direction (Qr) of the contact device (2). Electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact box (10) or a box section (11, 12) has an additional swivel area (700) apart from the swivel area (500), the additional swivel area (700) preferably comprises at least one integral swivel bearing (742) and / or preferably at least one through recess (710, 720, 730, 740) in at least one of the walls (100, 200, 300, 400) of the contact box (10). Electrical contact device (1) for an electrical entity (0), in particular for the vehicle sector, characterized in that the contact device (1) has an electrical contact device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, the contact device (1) being a multi-part and / or one-piece contact device (1) is formed. Electrical entity (0), in particular for the motor vehicle sector, characterized in that the entity (0) has an electrical contact device (2) or an electrical contact device (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

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