DE102019216251A1 - Electronics of a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to electronics (8) of a motor vehicle (2) with a housing (10) and a printed circuit board (46) arranged therein. The housing (10) has a housing shell (12) with a hollow cylindrical plug receptacle (26), within which a contact (66) of a contact plug (54) is arranged, which is held in a plug body (52) of the contact plug (54). The contact plug (54) is connected to the printed circuit board (46), and a dome (34) is arranged on a base (18) of the housing shell (12) and is guided through an opening (58) in the plug body (52).

Description

The invention relates to electronics of a motor vehicle, with a housing and a printed circuit board arranged therein. The invention also relates to a housing for electronics.

Motor vehicles usually have a large number of auxiliary units, which are designed, for example, as adjusting drives. These serve primarily not only to propel the motor vehicle but rather, for example, to influence other functions of the motor vehicle. In particular, these serve to increase comfort. In particular, a window lifter and / or a convertible top are usually designed electrically, and a transmission is also operated in an automated manner.

The auxiliary units usually have an electric motor for this purpose, which is designed, for example, to be brushless. Wear is thus reduced. The electric motor itself usually has a number of electromagnets, by means of which a rotating magnetic field is created during operation. At least, however, the magnetic field is variable over time. For this purpose, or at least for setting a speed of the electric motor, the electric motor comprises electronics, by means of which a suitable current is supplied to the electromagnets. In particular, a strength of the current supply is changed and / or a change in the current supply over time is carried out.

The electronics usually have a housing within which a printed circuit board is arranged, to which a number of electrical and / or electronic components are connected, by means of which a specific circuit is implemented. In order to contact the circuit with other components of the housing, a plug is usually provided which comprises several contacts. These are held in a specific configuration by means of a plug body, the plug body being attached to the circuit board. The contacts extend through a recess in the housing, and to protect the contacts they are usually surrounded by a hollow cylindrical plug receptacle which the housing has. The connector receptacle here has a specific configuration, that is to say a shape of the outer circumference, so that it is ensured that only a correspondingly shaped mating connector can be electrically contacted with the contacts.

To simplify production, the plug body is usually attached to the circuit board with the electrical / electronic components in a joint work step before the circuit board is inserted into the housing. The housing itself is manufactured in a plastic injection molding process so that the connector receptacle is molded. To mount the circuit board in the housing, an opening is provided through which the circuit board is inserted into the housing. The opening is formed by a housing shell, the opening being closed by means of a cover of the housing after the circuit board has been inserted.

The position of the contacts within the connector receptacle is specified by the corresponding mating connector. If there is a deviation from this, it is no longer possible to make contact with the contacts by means of the mating connector, the position of the mating connector being predetermined by means of the connector receptacle. It is therefore necessary to select comparatively low manufacturing tolerances when connecting the plug body / contacts to the circuit board, which increases manufacturing costs.

Since the contacts are surrounded on the circumferential side by the connector housing, at least partial movement of the contacts and thus also of the printed circuit board in the direction of the contacts is necessary. Thus, essentially two arrangement positions for the plug receptacle in the housing shell are conceivable. In one embodiment, these are located on the bottom of the housing shell.

It is thus possible to insert the printed circuit board in the vertical direction from above into the housing shell. This allows a comparatively simple automated insertion of the circuit board into the housing shell. However, since the connector receptacle is on the floor, it is not a plan and it is not possible to place it on a level mounting area. Rather, a corresponding recording must be provided. This is adapted to the special housing, and different receptacles must be used for different electronics. Different recordings are thus kept available, which is why production costs are increased.

As an alternative to this, the plug receptacle is provided on a side wall of the housing shell. In this case, it is no longer possible to insert the printed circuit board in the vertical direction into the housing shell, but this must be inserted into the housing shell by means of a tilting movement. Care must be taken here that when the contacts are threaded into the plug receptacle, they are not damaged and, for example, detached from the circuit board, which leads to the electronics being unusable and thus to increased rejects. As a result, it is necessary to introduce the printed circuit board into the housing shell comparatively slowly and in a precisely positioned manner; the production time and thus also the production costs are increased. In a further alternative, the opening is made in a side wall opposite the plug receptacle, and the circuit board is for example introduced into the housing parallel to its direction of expansion. Attacking the printed circuit board is made more difficult, and it can be damaged when it is inserted.

The invention is based on the object of specifying particularly suitable electronics for a motor vehicle, with assembly being simplified in particular, and with expediently reduced scrap and / or manufacturing costs.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments and refinements are the subject matter of the subclaims.

The electronics are part of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle is expediently a land-based motor vehicle and in particular has a number of wheels. For example, the motor vehicle is a commercial vehicle such as a truck or a bus. However, the motor vehicle is particularly preferably a passenger car (passenger car).

For example, the electronics are used to set and / or regulate a main drive of the motor vehicle, the main drive comprising, for example, an internal combustion engine, an electric motor or a combination thereof. Particularly preferably, however, the electronics are part of an auxiliary unit and expediently a control device. For example, the electronics are part of a door control unit, an engine control unit or a transmission control. For example, the auxiliary unit is a pump, in particular a water or oil pump, such as a lubricant pump. In an alternative to this, the auxiliary unit is an adjustment drive, such as steering assistance, ie so-called power steering, a window lifter or an electric seat adjustment. In a further alternative, the auxiliary unit is, for example, an electromotive refrigerant compressor.

The electronics are particularly preferably part of an auxiliary unit that has an electric motor, for example. The electric motor is, for example, a brushed commutator motor. Particularly preferably, however, the electric motor is designed to be brushless and suitably a brushless direct current motor (BLDC). The electric motor is, for example, an asynchronous motor or a synchronous motor. The electronics are used in particular to energize an electromagnet of the electric motor, in particular all of the electromagnets of the electric motor. A speed and / or a torque of the electric motor is preferably controlled and / or regulated by means of the electronics.

In the assembled state, the electronics are suitably electrically connected to an on-board network of the motor vehicle and are supplied with current by means of this. The electronics are particularly suitable for this. For example, the vehicle electrical system is a low-voltage electrical system and carries, for example, an electrical voltage of 12 volts, 24 volts or 48 volts. For example, when installed, the electronics are signal-technically coupled to a BUS system, in particular a LIN or CAN bus.

The electronics have a printed circuit board which is made, for example, of a glass fiber reinforced epoxy resin, on or in which a number of conductor tracks are arranged. The conductor tracks are expediently made from a copper, in particular by means of etching. A number of electrical and / or electronic components are preferably connected to the printed circuit board and suitably electrically contacted with one another by means of the conductor tracks. An electrical circuit is preferably implemented by means of the printed circuit board and the electrical / electronic components.

The electronics also include a housing within which the printed circuit board is arranged. The electronics are thus protected by means of the housing. The housing has a housing shell with a bottom, which expediently comprises an essentially cuboid base body. The base body includes in particular the base, which is expediently designed to be flat. Furthermore, the base body has a circumferential edge (side wall), so that the base body is essentially pot-shaped and consequently comprises an opening. In other words, the shell shape of the housing shell is essentially formed by means of the pot-shaped base body.

The housing shell also has a hollow cylindrical plug receptacle, which is also referred to in particular as a plug collar. The plug receptacle is expediently directed outwards and preferably molded onto the edge of the base body. Consequently, the bottom of the base body / housing shell is essentially flat, and this is preferably arranged on the side opposite the opening of the housing shell. A comparatively large opening is thus provided. It is also possible to arrange the housing shell in a stable manner on an essentially flat mounting surface. The housing shell is thus expediently designed to be self-standing

The connector receptacle has an outer contour, that is to say certain flanks that are matched to a corresponding mating connector. In other words, the cross section of the connector receptacle is matched to the mating connector perpendicular to its cylinder axis. So there is only one It is possible to insert a correspondingly shaped mating connector into the connector receptacle. The connector receptacle, in particular the cylinder axis of the hollow cylindrical connector receptacle, is preferably arranged parallel to the circuit board in the assembled state, and / or the circuit board is arranged essentially parallel to the bottom of the housing shell.

The electronics also include a contact plug with a contact that is arranged within the plug receptacle in the assembled state. The contact is, for example, a female or, particularly preferably, a male contact. Since the contact is arranged in the plug receptacle, it is protected by means of the plug receptacle. Contact with the corresponding mating connector is also possible there. By means of the contact and the plug receptacle, in particular the so-called face of the plug particularly formed in this way is determined.

The contact plug also comprises a plug body, by means of which the contact is held and thus stabilized. Damage and / or bending of the contact when the mating connector is inserted is thus avoided. Handling is also simplified. The contact protrudes from the plug body, and the plug body is arranged, for example, outside the plug receptacle or is at least partially inside it. The plug body is preferably made from the electrically insulating material, in particular from a plastic. The contact with the plug body is expediently encapsulated in this case. The contact plug is connected to the circuit board. In other words, there is mechanical contact between the contact plug and the circuit board. In particular, the electronics comprise several such contacts, which are held by means of the same connector body, so that flexibility is increased.

A dome is arranged on the bottom of the housing shell, in particular the bottom of any base body of the housing shell, and is suitably connected there. The dome preferably runs essentially perpendicular to the floor, and the dome is, for example, molded onto the floor and / or cylindrical. In this case, the cross section of the dome is preferably essentially round, so that damage to other components of the electronics is avoided.

The plug body comprises an opening which is designed in particular as a cylinder. The dome is guided through the opening of the plug body. Here, the dome is attached to the plug body, for example, by means of adhesive bonding. However, it is particularly preferred that there is only a loose connection. As an alternative or in combination with this, there is a form fit and / or force fit between these, so that the position of the plug body is comparatively stable. A clearance fit is expediently formed between the dome and the plug body so that it is easier to insert the dome into the opening.

The position of the contact plug and thus also of the contact within the plug receptacle is specified by means of the dome. As a result, it is ensured that the contact is also in the desired position with respect to the connector receptacle, so that contact with the mating contact is always possible. In this case, it is only necessary to ensure correct positioning of the dome with respect to the plug receptacle during production, whereas larger tolerances can be selected for the connection of the contact plug to the circuit board. In this case, the circuit board may not be aligned within the housing, but correct contact with any mating connector is always possible.

The dome is suitably manufactured in one piece with the housing shell, so that comparatively low tolerances only have to be selected in the manufacture of the housing shell. When connecting the plug body to the printed circuit board, however, comparatively large manufacturing tolerances can be selected, the alignment of the contacts in the plug receptacle always being correct. The plug body is suitably connected flexibly to the circuit board, which simplifies alignment.

For example, the housing shell is made up of several components. However, the housing shell is particularly preferably in one piece, which is why production is facilitated. The housing shell is expediently made from a plastic, in particular in a plastic injection molding process. A thermoplastic is preferably used as the plastic.

A fastening device for fastening the housing to further components of the motor vehicle is preferably connected, in particular molded, to the housing shell, in particular to any base body. The fastening device is expediently a tab through which a screw can be passed. The tab is suitably connected to the possible edge of the housing shell, in particular to a side wall which, however, in particular does not coincide with the side wall on which the plug receptacle is located. Thus, the assembly of any mating connector is not hindered by the tab. The housing preferably comprises two such tabs, these expediently located on opposite sides of the housing shell, which increases stability.

For example, the two tabs are arranged congruently with one another. In other words, the tabs overlap at least partially when one of the tabs is displaced perpendicular to the two side walls onto the opposite side wall. Particularly preferably, however, the two tabs are offset from one another and / or all the tabs on opposite sides are offset from one another. In other words, none of the tabs overlaps when shifting perpendicular to the respective side wall onto the opposite side wall. The offset is in particular parallel to the course of the respective side wall. If, consequently, several such electronics and / or housing shells are present, the tabs of the adjacently arranged housing shells are offset from one another, in particular if opposite side walls are directed towards one another. It is thus possible to have the tabs of the adjacent housing shells interlock or at least to arrange them next to one another, so that a comparatively small distance can be selected between the housing shells. A pack size is thus reduced, which simplifies storage and / or transport.

The contact particularly preferably projects beyond the printed circuit board. Thus, an enlarged area for mounting the electrical / electronic components, if any, is provided on the circuit board, and a structural size is thus reduced. Insertion into the plug receptacle is also facilitated in this way.

The dome is preferably also passed through the printed circuit board, which for this purpose likewise has a hole. Thus, the position of the circuit board in the housing shell is also predetermined by means of the dome, and movement of the circuit board in the housing shell is avoided. The hole in the circuit board expediently has a larger diameter than the hole in the plug body, so that tolerance compensation is still possible.

For example, there is only one cathedral. Particularly preferably, however, a second dome is arranged on the floor and is preferably fastened to the floor, in particular molded on. The two domes are preferably structurally identical to one another and / or run parallel to one another. The plug body suitably comprises a second opening, the second dome being guided through the second opening of the plug body. For example, the opening and the second opening merge into one another. However, these are particularly preferably spaced apart from one another, and the two domes are thus also spaced apart from one another. Because of the second dome, a degree of freedom in positioning the plug body is reduced, so that it is positioned more precisely. This makes it even easier to connect the contact to any mating connector.

A second contact plug, which is structurally identical to the plug body, is particularly preferably connected to the printed circuit board. Thus, the second contact plug also has the plug body and the contact that is held therewith. The second contact plug also has the opening and the second opening. The contact of the second contact plug is preferably also arranged within the plug receptacle, the contacts of the different contact plugs, for example, being separated from one another by means of a web or the like, so that an electrical short circuit is avoided.

The second dome is preferably present, which is guided through the second opening of the plug body. Here, the opening of the second contact plug, that is to say the opening of its plug body, is arranged in alignment with the second opening of the plug body of the contact plug. The second dome is thus guided both through the opening of the second contact plug and through the second opening of the contact plug. In summary, both the contact plug and the second contact plug are positioned by means of the second dome. The plug and thus also the second contact plug suitably has a contour on its edge, the contour having the respective opening. On the opposite side, each plug body expediently comprises a further contour which has the second opening. The contour and the further contour of the two contact plugs preferably engage with one another in a form-fitting manner and are in particular stabilized with respect to one another by means of the second dome. Comparatively robust electronics are thus provided. In particular, the contour and the further contour are L-shaped, which facilitates production.

Suitably, a third dome is arranged on the floor, which is in particular structurally identical to the second dome or the dome, and is preferably parallel to them. The third dome is in particular passed through the second opening of the second contact plug, that is, its plug body. Thus, each of the contact plugs is positioned with two domes each, which is why these are essentially precisely aligned.

In particular, the electronics comprise further contact plugs, each of the contact plugs being positioned by means of two domes, and the Electronics thus include a corresponding number of domes. The first, second, third and any further domes that are used to position the contact plugs are suitably arranged in a row. Thus, their connection points are on the bottom of the housing shell on a straight line. Consequently, all contact plugs are also arranged along a straight line. This makes it easier to connect the mating connector or several mating connectors.

For example, the dome is designed to be essentially smooth. Particularly preferably, however, the dome comprises a step on which the plug body is placed. The step is offset away from the floor, which is why the plug body is also spaced from the floor. In other words, the position of the plug body is determined by means of the step. Thus, by means of the dome, not only the alignment of the contact plug but also its distance is also set.

In an alternative, the printed circuit board is placed on the dome or another dome, which also has a step. Consequently, an installation space is created between the circuit board and the floor in which, for example, any electrical / electronic components connected to the circuit board are located. This protects them from damage.

For example, the step is only a section-wise thickening of the dome. Particularly preferably, however, the dome is divided into two areas by means of the step, the cross section in each of the two areas preferably being constant. Here, the dome is preferably thickened on the side facing the floor. In particular, the cross section of the dome is essentially round, and the two sections are arranged concentrically to one another. Production of the dome is thus simplified, in particular if it is produced in one work step with the housing shell, for example in a plastic injection molding process. Due to such a design of the dome, demolding from a tool is thus simplified.

The contact is particularly preferably arranged at least in sections parallel to the circuit board, so that contacting of the contact is preferably at least in sections parallel to the circuit board. Thus, a force acting on the circuit board, which could lead to it becoming detached from it and / or damage to the circuit board, is prevented. Alternatively or particularly preferably in combination with this, the contact is at least partially aligned parallel to the plug receptacle. This enables the contact within the connector receptacle to be contacted with a corresponding mating connector.

The contact is expediently connected to the circuit board and preferably soldered to it. Alternatively, a connection is made using a press fit. There is thus an electrical contact between the contact and the circuit board, in particular at least one of the conductor tracks that may be present. The contact is used, for example, to supply the printed circuit board with electricity and / or to exchange signals. Since the position of the plug body is predetermined by means of the dome, when the contact is soldered to the circuit board it is not necessary to pay attention to an exact alignment of the contact with respect to the circuit board, which is why production is simplified.

The contact is, for example, a stamped and bent part and is made from a copper, for example. The contact is preferably a stamped grid. The contact is suitably designed essentially L-shaped, one leg being parallel to the circuit board and the remaining leg being perpendicular to the circuit board. This leg is preferably in electrical contact with the printed circuit board, for example in a THT process. Because of the L-shape, a connection to the circuit board is thus made possible, with a contacting direction with the mating connector being parallel to the direction of expansion of the circuit board.

For example, the plug body is cohesively connected to the printed circuit board and, in particular, is glued to it. As an alternative to this, the plug body has, for example, a slot into which the circuit board is inserted. Thus, the circuit board is gripped by means of the connector body. Particularly preferably, however, the plug body comprises an extension which is inserted into a receptacle on the printed circuit board. Due to the extension, it is thus possible to attach the plug body to the circuit board by placing it on it perpendicular to its direction of expansion, and can thus be carried out in the same way as the fitting with any electrical and / or electronic components.

The extension is preferably cylindrical and protrudes, for example, through the printed circuit board. For example, the extension is pressed with the receptacle. Particularly preferably, however, at least one clearance fit is implemented between these or, for example, the receptacle is configured in the shape of a slot. Rotation of the plug body with respect to the printed circuit board is thus possible to a small extent, so that tolerance compensation can take place.

By means of the extension, a mechanical connection of the plug body and consequently also of the contact plug on the circuit board. In this case, the contact is preferably soldered to the circuit board, so that an electrical connection to the circuit board is established by means of the contact. The contact between the contact and the circuit board is preferably made in the manner of a push-through assembly, the plug body being placed on one side of the circuit board. Assembly is therefore possible in a simplified and automated manner.

The housing expediently has the opening which is located in particular on the side of the housing shell opposite the bottom. The opening of the housing shell is preferably located on the side opposite the bottom. This enables the printed circuit board to be inserted in the vertical direction into the housing shell through the opening in the housing shell. In this case, the size of the opening in the housing shell is particularly preferably at least equal to or greater than the extent of the printed circuit board. The housing suitably further comprises a cover, by means of which the housing shell, that is to say in particular the opening, is closed. This prevents foreign particles from entering the housing. For example, the cover is made of a metal and / or a material that differs from the material of the housing shell. Particularly preferably, however, the cover is made from the same material as the housing shell. Production is thus facilitated.

The cover is particularly preferably aligned parallel to the printed circuit board. For example, the cover is supported by means of the dome. Particularly preferably, however, the dome protrudes through a corresponding hole in the cover, in particular a clearance fit being created between the hole and the dome. It is thus possible to place the cover on the dome without exerting force, with a comparatively small gap being formed between them, so that penetration of foreign particles is made more difficult. The dome is particularly preferably enlarged on the free-end side in the shape of a rivet. The dome is suitably hot caulked for this purpose, so that the housing shell is riveted to the cover by means of the dome. For example, the dome and the housing shell, if they are in one piece, are made from a thermoplastic, which is why production is simplified. In particular, the enlargement of the end of the dome is greater than the diameter of the hole, so that a permanent connection between the cover and the housing shell is realized by means of the dome.

The second dome and any additional domes are suitably present, each of the domes being assigned a hole in the cover, and each dome being enlarged in the shape of a rivet at the end. Thus, stability is further increased.

For example, the connector receptacle is intact. Particularly preferably, however, the plug receptacle comprises a recess on its circumference, which is located in particular on the side of the hollow cylindrical plug receptacle facing the possible base body and expediently merges into the possible base body. In other words, the recess is offset away from the free end of the plug receptacle, and any edge of the base body is also recessed, the two recesses expediently being aligned with one another. The recess is located in particular on the side opposite the bottom of the possible base body, that is to say in particular on the side of the opening of the housing shell. The recess preferably merges into the opening, if any.

For example, the recess is continuous so that the connector receptacle is slotted. Particularly preferably, however, the plug receptacle is closed on the circumferential side at its end opposite the possible base body, that is to say at its free end. Thus, by means of the complete circumference of the connector receptacle, the outer contour for any mating connector is predetermined, and the insertion of an unsuitable mating connector is avoided by means of the connector receptacle. The mechanical integrity of the connector receptacle is also increased in this way.

Furthermore, the plug receptacle is also closed by means of the cover, and the cover expediently has a corresponding bulge or at least a corresponding shape. This prevents foreign particles from penetrating into the housing via the opening of the housing shell and / or the recess, and the only opening in the housing is provided by means of the plug receptacle within which the contact is located. Since the recess is also closed by means of the cover, these are located in particular on the same side as any opening in the housing shell, and expediently points away from a bottom of the housing shell.

Because of the recess in the plug receptacle, threading the contact into the plug receptacle is made easier, which is why assembly is simplified. Damage to the contact when it is inserted into the connector receptacle is avoided due to the recess, which is why rejects are reduced. It is also not necessary to reduce a process speed, which is why a production time is reduced. Since both the opening of the housing shell and the plug receptacle are closed by means of the cover, this takes place in a single work step, which is why assembly is further simplified. There is also the formation of leaks or the like avoided. The use of the recess in the plug receptacle is in particular independent of the widening of the dome at the end and / or the protrusion through the hole in the cover

The contact plug, in particular the contact, is particularly preferably covered by a projection of the recess, the projection expediently taking place perpendicular to the extent of the printed circuit board. For example, the complete contact plug is covered by this, or at least a section of the contact plug, preferably its free end, such as part of the contact. The recess is suitably larger than the contact, and it is thus possible to move the circuit board perpendicular to its direction of extension into the housing shell, the contact being introduced into the housing shell through the recess perpendicular to the connector receptacle. Consequently, it is only necessary to assemble the circuit board in the housing to translate it, which simplifies assembly.

If several contacts are present, a corresponding cutout is assigned to each contact, for example, or there is only a single cutout, with all the contacts being covered by the projection of the cutout.

For example, the cover has a projection for the recess. Particularly preferably, however, the cover is rectangular, and the housing shell is designed accordingly, so that the recess of the plug receptacle is in alignment with other components of the housing shell, or at least partially has a projection. Since the cover is rectangular, manufacture and handling are simplified.

For example, the housing shell has a planar design and the cover rests flush on it. Particularly preferably, however, a seal is present between these, which is formed, for example, by means of a separate component. Particularly preferably, however, the housing shell has a circumferential groove, which is therefore located in particular on the circumferential side of the housing shell. An edge of the cover lies within the groove, the cover expediently being bent over at the edge to form the edge. A labyrinth seal is thus formed, which is why the penetration of foreign particles into the housing is avoided. In this case, the groove is particularly preferably additionally filled with a material, for example a sealing compound, which further increases the tightness.

For example, the plug body is at least partially placed on an inside of the plug receptacle, which facilitates positioning. This also increases robustness and prevents foreign particles from penetrating into the housing. The connector receptacle or some other component of the electronics is suitably in contact with a lateral edge of the connector body, which further improves the tightness. The cover, if it is present, preferably rests against the plug body. The cover expediently comprises a projection which is directed in the direction of the plug body and which suitably rests against the plug body in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. This also prevents foreign particles from penetrating there, which further increases tightness.

In an alternative to this, the projection rests positively and / or non-positively on the circuit board, expediently exactly opposite the contact plug. The contact plug preferably rests against further components of the housing shell, in particular in an area of the plug receptacle. The ingress of foreign particles is thus avoided on this side, and damage to the plug body is avoided.

If a component is referred to as a first, second, third,.. In particular, this does not mean that a specific number of such components is present.

• 1 schematisch ein Kraftfahrzeug mit einem eine Elektronik aufweisenden Nebenaggregat,
• 2 perspektivisch vereinfacht die Elektronik, die ein Gehäuse mit einer Gehäuseschale und einen Deckel aufweist,
• 3 die Elektronik in einer Draufsicht mit abgenommenem Deckel,
• 4 die Elektronik in einer Schnittdarstellung,
• 5 perspektivisch die Elektronik ohne Gehäuse,
• 6 perspektivisch einen Kontaktstecker der Elektronik,
• 7 eine weitere Ausführungsform der Elektronik gemäß 5, und
• 8 eine letzte Ausführungsform der Elektronik gemäß 2.

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing. Show in it:

• 1 schematically a motor vehicle with an ancillary unit having electronics,
• 2 in perspective simplified the electronics, which have a housing with a housing shell and a cover,
• 3 the electronics in a top view with the cover removed,
• 4th the electronics in a sectional view,
• 5 in perspective the electronics without housing,
• 6th in perspective a contact plug of the electronics,
• 7th a further embodiment of the electronics according to 5 , and
• 8th a final embodiment of the electronics according to 2 .

Corresponding parts are provided with the same reference symbols in all figures.

In 1 is schematically simplified a motor vehicle 2 shown in the form of a passenger car. The car 2 has a Number of wheels 4th on, of which at least some are driven by means of a main drive not shown in detail. The main drive is an electric motor, an internal combustion engine, or a combination thereof.

Furthermore, the motor vehicle 2 an auxiliary unit 6th on, which is used to provide other functions, but not directly to propel the motor vehicle 2 . The auxiliary unit 6th represents in an alternative also for the operation of the motor vehicle 2 required functions and is, for example, a braking system, an automated transmission or a steering system. The auxiliary unit is used in a further embodiment 6th the provision of convenience functions. In particular, this is the auxiliary unit 6th an electromotive adjustment device, such as an electromotive window lifter or an electromotive door adjustment. Another alternative is the auxiliary unit 6th a door module, by means of which several functions are provided.

The ancillary units 6th exhibits electronics 8th by means of which the functions of the auxiliary unit 6th regulated and / or controlled. The Electronic 8th is for this purpose electrically with an on-board network of the motor vehicle not shown in detail 2 electrically contacted. Also is the electronics 8th signaling with a not shown bus system of the motor vehicle 2 connected that meets a CAN bus standard or a Flexray bus standard.

In 2 is the perspective of electronics 8th shown. The Electronic 8th has a housing 10 with a housing shell 12th and a lid attached to it 14th on and is formed by means of this. The housing shell 12th as well as the lid 14th are made of the same plastic, namely a thermoplastic, in a plastic injection molding process and are each in one piece. The housing shell 12th has a substantially cuboid base body 16 on the one on the one on the lid 14th opposite side a flat floor 18th having. On the side of the lid 14th has the main body 16 one by means of the lid 14th closed opening 20th on. The rest of the body 16 is by means of a frame-like edge 22nd formed, which thus has a substantially hollow cylindrical shape by means of four side walls 24 is formed. On two opposite side walls 24 is to the main body 16 one outwardly facing tab 25 is formed in each case. In other words, the housing 10 two such tabs 25 on. The tabs 25 are each provided and upgraded to receive a screw (not shown in detail). This is used to assemble the electronics 8th on other components of the motor vehicle 2 or the auxiliary unit 6th .

The two tabs 25 are structurally identical to one another and parallel to the respective side wall 24 offset. In other words, a projection of one of the tabs 25 overlaps the opposite side wall 24 , to which the remaining flap 25 is connected, not with the remaining flap 25. It is therefore possible to have several such housing shells 12th to be arranged next to one another, wherein one of the tabs 25 can be directed towards the opposite housing shell and rests against it. In other words, this is the distance between 100 side walls to be pointed 24 adjacent housing shells 12th equal to the extent of a corresponding tab 25 in each case.

On one of the remaining side walls 24 is a plug socket 26th integrally formed, which is designed as a hollow cylinder. Here this side wall 24 a corresponding step, by means of which a protrusion is formed on the side of the connector receptacle 26th is applied. The course of the cylinder axis of the connector receptacle 26th is perpendicular to the associated side wall 24 and thus parallel to the ground 18th . The connector receptacle 26th points from the main body 16 away and is therefore directed outwards. The connector receptacle 26th has a corrugated outer contour, which is adapted to a mating connector, not shown in detail, so that only an insertion of a mating connector is possible, which also has a corresponding outer contour. At the connector receptacle 26th is within this one perpendicular to the ground 18th running bridge 28 molded, by means of which the plug receptacle 26th is divided into two equal areas. It is possible to plug a corresponding mating connector into each of the areas so that the connector receptacle 26th is suitable for accepting two mating connectors.

On the remaining side wall, not shown 24 that is, the connector receptacle 26th is opposite, no other component is connected, so that it is designed to be smooth. Also is the floor 28 smooth and therefore flat, so that when assembling the electronics 8th the case 10 stable by means of the floor 18th can be placed on a mounting surface so that the opening 20th pointing vertically upwards. Thus there is an insertion of components into the housing 10 facilitated.

In 3 is the electronics 8th shown in a plan view, with the lid 10 is removed. In other words, it is electronics 8th shown during assembly. In 4th is the electronics 8th shown in a sectional view, the section being parallel to the side walls 24 is to which the tabs 25 are tied. The housing shell 12th has one around the opening 20th circumferential groove 30th on, with the groove 30th on the side walls 24 in the from the ground 18th leading end is introduced and parallel to the side walls 24 runs. In the groove 30th a sealing compound, not shown in detail, is introduced, and an edge lies in this 32 of the lid 14th one that is substantially rectangular in shape, with the rim forming the edge 32 is bent vertically. Thus is by means of the edge 32 , the groove 30th and a seal is provided for the sealing compound, which is why foreign particles can penetrate into the housing 10 through the opening 20th is prevented.

On the floor 18th of the main body 16 , and thus also the housing shell 12th , are a cathedral 34 , a second cathedral 36 , a third cathedral 38 as well as two other domes 40 tied up. The other domes 40 are identical to each other and are on the connector receptacle 26th opposite side wall 24 positioned in the corners there. The second and third cathedral 36 , 38 are identical to each other and with the cathedral 34 in a row parallel to the side wall 24 arranged and assigned to the connector receptacle 26th is molded. In a variant not shown in detail, all domes are 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 identical to each other.

All domes 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 have a substantially round cross-section and run perpendicular to the floor 18th . Furthermore, each of the domes 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 a step 42 on, by means of which each of the cathedral 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 is divided into two areas. The two areas each have a round cross section and are arranged concentrically to one another. However, this is the diameter of the side of the floor 18th located area enlarged. The domes 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 differ only in the position of the step 42 , i.e. the distance between the steps 42 to the floor 18th .

Each of the domes 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 protrudes as in 5 shown schematically simplified, through a corresponding hole 44 of the lid 14th , being between the hole 44 and the respectively assigned cathedral 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 a clearance fit is created. That through the respective hole 44 protruding end of each cathedral 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 is enlarged like a rivet. In other words, the respective free ends are enlarged in the shape of a rivet. The enlargement is done by means of hot caulking so that the lid 14th inextricably linked to the housing shell 16 connected is. In doing so, any sealing between each of the domes is also carried out 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 and the respective hole 44 formed gap, so that the penetration of foreign particles is prevented.

It is also inside the housing shell 12th a circuit board 46 arranged, which is rectangular, and on which a number of electrical / electronic components 48 are connected and soldered with not shown 10 conductor tracks. By means of the electrical / electronic components 48 a certain circuit is implemented by means of which the function of the electronics 8th is fulfilled. The circuit board 44 has four holes 50 on, being the cathedral 34 , the second cathedral 36 and the two other domes 40 each one of the holes 50 is assigned through which these each protrude. The third cathedral 38 however, does not protrude through the circuit board 46 , and the circuit board 46 is cut out at this corner. The circuit board 46 lies on the steps 42 of the other domes 40 and is thus stabilized by means of this. On the remaining steps 42 there is a plug body in each case 52 a contact plug 54 or a second contact plug 56 on.

The two contact plugs 54 , 56 are identical to each other, and one of these is shown in perspective 6th shown. The connector body 52 each contact plug 54 , 56 is made of a plastic and is designed Z-shaped. In other words, there are two edges of the connector body 52 L-shaped. In other words, the opposite edges of the plug body 52 an L-shaped contour. In one of the protrusions formed in this way is an opening 58 introduced, which is designed as a hollow cylinder. There is a second opening in the remaining extension 60 introduced, which is also hollow cylindrical, and the same diameter as the opening 58 having. Their diameter corresponds to the diameter of the dome 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 in the area with the reduced diameter.

The two connector bodies are in the assembled state 52 along a straight line, namely one of the edges of the circuit board 46 , arranged, the opening 58 of the connector body 52 of the second contact plug 46 with the second opening 60 of the connector body 52 of the contact plug 54 flees. Through this is the second cathedral 44 out so that the two contact plugs 44 , 46 by means of the second cathedral 36 are connected to each other. Through the opening 58 of the contact plug 54 is the cathedral 34 and through the second opening 60 of the second contact plug 56 the third cathedral 58 guided. Here is between the cathedral 34 and the second and third cathedral 36 , 38 and the respectively assigned opening 58 , 60 each created a clearance fit so that the contact plug can be put on 54 , 56 on the dome 34 , 36 , 38 is relieved. By means of this dome 34 , 36 , 38 the contact plugs are thus aligned 54 , 56 regarding the housing shell 12th .

The contact plugs 54 , 56 are on the circuit board 46 connected and are located on the side of the electrical / electronic components 48 , in the 5 are not shown. Any connector body 52 is made of a plastic and lies over a large area on the circuit board 46 at. In addition, everyone includes Connector body 52 one or more cylindrical extensions 62 that is perpendicular to the circuit board 46 is arranged, and in a corresponding receptacle 64 the circuit board 46 is plugged in. The contact plug 54 as well as the second contact plug 56 at the respective levels 42 of the cathedral 34 of the second cathedral 36 or the third cathedral 38 so that the contact plug 54 , 56 and thus also the circuit board 46 are stabilized.

By means of each connector body 52 are two contacts each 66 held, each of which is a stamped and bent part and is L-shaped. Here, each of the contacts 66 one parallel to the circuit board 46 extending leg and a leg extending perpendicular thereto, the two free ends each coming from the plug body 52 protrude. The one perpendicular to the circuit board 46 running leg is at the free end by means of a THT soldering process on the circuit board 46 soldered on and thus soldered by means of this. As a result, electrical contact is made with the contacts 66 with the circuit board 46 . The remaining leg of each contact 66 stands over the circuit board 46 above and is within the connector receptacle 26th arranged, the connector receptacle 26th a recess on the circumference 68 having that into the opening 20th transforms. The extent of the recess 68 corresponds here to the protrusion of the contacts 66 over the circuit board 46 , and the projection of the recess 46 perpendicular to the circuit board 46 covers the contacts 66 . The recess 68 is here only in the main body 16 facing part of the connector receptacle 26th introduced, so that the free end of the plug receptacle, which is spaced apart therefrom 26th is continuous and therefore intact. The recess is also located 68 on the the floor 18th facing away from the connector receptacle 26th and goes into the opening 20th above.

When assembling the circuit board 46 with the electrical / electronic components connected to it 48 as well as the contact plugs 54 , 56 vertically in the housing shell 12th used. This is where the circuit board 46 by means of their holes 50 on the cathedral 34 , the second cathedral 36 , the third cathedral 38 as well as the other domes put on, with the third dome 38 through the second opening 60 of the second contact plug 56 to be led. Both the contact plugs are located at 54 , 56 as well as the electrical / electronic components 48 on the the floor 18th facing side of the circuit board 46 . By means of the domes 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 becomes the circuit board 46 vertically in the housing shell 12th guided, with a tilting movement or a rotation of the circuit board 46 by means of the dome 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 is prevented. Through the recess 68 become the contacts 66 into the plug receptacle 26th introduced perpendicular to their course.

Insertion of the circuit board 46 is done using the steps 42 the dome 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 limited, and also the connector body 52 lie on an edge in this state 70 that by means of the transition of the connector receptacle 26th to the main body 16 is formed. Because of the cathedral 34 , and the second and third cathedral 36 , 38 the contact plugs are aligned 54 , 56 so that the respective contacts 66 at predetermined positions within the connector receptacle 26th are located.

After positioning the circuit board 46 becomes the housing shell 12th by means of the lid 14th locked, this corresponding to the dome 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 is placed and thus guided by means of this. The lid 14th is as long in the direction of the main body 16 moved up the edge 32 into the groove 30th intervenes. Here is the size of the lid 14th on the opening 20th as well as the recess 68 adjusted so that both by means of the lid 14th be locked. The bridge 28 partially protrudes through the recess 68 , and by means of the bridge 28 becomes the lid 14th supported, and consequently stabilized by means of it.

On the lid 14th is a head start 72 molded, which is cuboid and in the direction of the floor 18th is oriented. The head start 72 then lies when the edge 32 into the groove 30th engages frictionally on the circuit board 46 on, namely directly in the area of the printed circuit board that has the contact plugs 54 , 56 directly opposite. Thus, by means of the projection 72 the contact plugs 56 , 54 against the edge 70 pressed and consequently also the printed circuit board 46 clamped, which increases stability.

It is also on the lid 14th a cone 74 molded into the protrusion 72 passes over, but has a greater extent. The third cathedral 38 is partially through the tenon 74 passed through, and the pin 74 depends on the step 42 of the third cathedral 38 at. The circuit board is also located 46 on the side of the tenon 74 and is stabilized by means of it. After putting on the lid 14th become the domes 34 , 36 , 38 , 40 Hot caulked on the free end and thus the lid 14th captive on the housing shell 12th attached.

Following this, it is possible to use the plug receptacle 26th to introduce a corresponding mating connector, namely in each of the two through the web 28 defined areas. In this case, the mating connector is contacted with the contacts 66 either of the contact plug 54 or the second contact plug 56 . Thus it is possible to use the circuit board 46 from outside the housing 10 to supply electrical energy and / or to exchange signals with it.

In 7th is a modification of the electronics 8th according to the representation of the 5 shown. The circuit board 46 as well as the lid 14th and the housing shell, not shown in detail 12th are reduced in size, as is the connector receptacle, which is not shown in detail 26th , by means of which only a single mating connector can now be added. Hence the second contact plug 56 omitted, and it is only in contact plug 54 present, by means of the cathedral 34 as well as by means of the second cathedral 36 is positioned. The third cathedral 36 however, is omitted. Again there are the two other domes 40 as well as the tenon 74 and the lead 72 present, by means of which the circuit board 46 or the contact plug 54 is supported. Since the contact plug 44 or the second contact plug 56 are modular, is a comprehensive change to the implementation of this variant of the electronics 8th not mandatory.

In a variant not shown in detail, the circuit board 46 , the lid 14th as well as the housing shell 12th enlarged, and there are three or more such contact plugs 54 , 56 as well as corresponding domes available, whereby at the connector receptacle 26th a corresponding number of bars 28 is connected.

In 8th is a further modification of the electronics 8th according to the representation of the 2 shown. Here is the lid 14th no longer rectangular, but has a protrusion 76 on, by means of which the recess 68 the connector receptacle 26th is covered. The side wall 24 at which the connector receptacle 26th is formed, is thus designed smooth.

The invention is not restricted to the exemplary embodiments described above. Rather, other variants of the invention can also be derived therefrom by the person skilled in the art without departing from the subject matter of the invention. In particular, all of the individual features described in connection with the individual exemplary embodiments can also be combined with one another in other ways without departing from the subject matter of the invention.

List of reference symbols

2

Motor vehicle

4th

wheel

6th

Auxiliary unit

8th

electronics

10

casing

12th

Housing shell

14th

cover

16

Base body

18th

ground

20th

opening

22nd

edge

24

Side wall

26th

Connector receptacle

28

web

30th

Groove

32

Edge

34

Dom

36

second cathedral

38

third cathedral

40

another cathedral

42

step

44

Hole in the lid

46

Circuit board

48

electrical / electronic component

50

Hole in the circuit board

52

Connector body

54

Contact plug

56

second contact plug

58

opening

60

second opening

62

Appendix

64

admission

66

Contact

68

Recess

70

Edge

72

head Start

74

Cones

76

Got over

Claims (10)

Electronics (8) of a motor vehicle (2), with a housing (10) and a printed circuit board (46) arranged therein, the housing (10) having a housing shell (12) with a hollow cylindrical plug receptacle (26) within which a contact ( 66) of a contact plug (54) is arranged, which is held in a plug body (52) of the contact plug (54), the contact plug (54) being connected to the printed circuit board (46) and being attached to a bottom (18) of the housing shell (12) a cathedral (34) is arranged, which is guided through an opening (58) of the plug body (52). Electronics (8) Claim 1 , characterized in that the housing shell (12) has two opposite side walls (24) to each of which a tab (25) is connected, the two tabs (25) being offset from one another parallel to the side walls (24). Electronics (8) Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that a second dome (36) is arranged on the bottom (18), which is guided through a second opening (60) of the plug body (52). Electronics (8) Claim 3 , characterized in that a second contact plug (56) is connected to the circuit board (46), which is identical to the contact plug (54), the opening (58) of the second contact plug (56) being aligned with the second opening (60) of the contact plug (54) is arranged, and wherein a third dome (38) is arranged on the bottom (18), which is guided through the second opening (60) of the second contact plug (56). Electronics (8) according to one of the Claims 1 to 4th , characterized in that the dome (34) has a step (42) on which the plug body (52) rests. Electronics (8) according to one of the Claims 1 to 5 , characterized in that the contact (66) is L-shaped and is soldered to the circuit board (46). Electronics (8) according to one of the Claims 1 to 6th , characterized in that the plug body (52) has an extension (62) which is inserted into a receptacle (64) of the circuit board (46). Electronics (8) according to one of the Claims 1 to 7th , characterized in that the housing shell (12) is closed by means of a cover (14), the dome (34) protruding through a corresponding hole (44) in the cover (12) and enlarged at the free end in the shape of a rivet. Electronics (8) Claim 8 , characterized in that the connector receptacle (26) has a recess (68) on its circumference, which is closed by means of the cover (14). Electronics (8) Claim 8 or 9 , characterized in that the housing shell (12) has a circumferential groove (30) within which an edge (32) of the cover (14) rests.

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