DE102022001944A1 - Device for clamping connectors - Google Patents

Abstract

Clamping device for plug connectors for the temporary non-positive clamping of a contact pin of a plug in a corresponding contact socket of a socket, in which the contact pins (2) of a plug (1) and/or the contact sockets (14) of a plug socket (13) are made entirely of an electrically conductive Shape memory material is formed and provided directly as a clamping element or that clamping elements made of shape memory material are provided in the contact pins (2) of the plug (1) and / or on the contact sockets (14) of the plug socket (13) or that the contact pins (2) of the plug (1 ) or the contact sockets (14) of the plug socket (13) have clamping elements which, coupled with actuating elements made of shape memory material (4), are prevented from clamping in the non-operating state and can be brought into the clamping position in the operating state and the clamping or contact force of the contact pins (2) of the plug (1) in the contact sockets (14) of the plug socket (13) are provided so that they can be switched by means of the clamping or adjusting elements (4) made of shape memory material.

Description

The invention relates to a device for clamping plug connectors for the temporary non-positive clamping of contact pins of a plug in a corresponding socket of a socket, the clamping or adjusting elements of which are made of a shape memory material.

Plug connectors are used to separate and connect electrical cables, in which the connecting parts are detachably fixed in a force-fitting manner by a spring force and, if necessary, are additionally secured against unintentional loosening by a positive mechanical connection. If heavy cables are to be connected to a socket, the holding force of the inserted electrical contact pins can no longer guarantee the mechanical stability of the plug connection, so an additional positive mechanical connection must be established. For connections within housings, a simple snap-in technique is often used, which can be released manually, and for external connections, locking is done using a screw connection. Depending on the application of the plug connection, special requirements must be placed on the electrical contact resistance, for example the stability of the contact resistance over long periods of time or over a large number of plug-ins. At low useful voltages, the frit voltage must also be largely avoided. Among other things, the contact force and the contact area are important for the contact resistance. A large contact area is not always favorable because then the area-related contact pressure becomes too low and the contact only takes place in points or lines. Designs for connectors are, for example, spring connectors or lamella connectors. These plugs have a bending spring element with which the plug is held firmly in the plug socket, but can be released without tools. The diameter of the plug is variable thanks to the spring element. Lamellar plugs are tufted plugs that, instead of the bent leaf spring, have a number of resilient, current-conducting spring wires, which are preferably held together with a cap at the tip. The tufted connectors are cheaper to manufacture and easier to plug in, but have higher contact resistance. Furthermore, plugs are known which have a ring-shaped current-conducting basket spring element which is movably mounted on the contact pin or plugs which provide a spring element between the contact pin of the plug and the contact socket of the socket in order to secure the plug against loosening and to reduce the contact resistance, whereby the spring elements also conduct the electrical current. The DE 10 2009 001 573 B3 describes a spring element, a plug connection and a contact element with an electrically conductive spring element which is in contact with the contact element in order to establish electrical contact with a mating contact element, the spring element having the shape of an open band at least partially rolled up along a longitudinal axis. In the DE 10 2004 040 118 A1 a pressure contact is described with an electrically conductive contact pin, an electrically conductive guide for receiving the contact pin and an elastic, electrically conductive contact device between the contact pin and the guide, the contact device being attached laterally to the contact pin and elastically for establishing an electrical connection between them pushes against the leadership. It is also known to use a spring element between the contact pin of the plug and the contact socket in order to secure the plug against loosening and to reduce the contact resistance, but which does not conduct the electrical current. From the German Patent No. 328908 an electrical plug with compression springs attached to the pins is known in which the ends of a bow-shaped spring are connected to the contact pins in such a way that the spring is held on the contact pin by its own tension and one leg of the spring when the contact pin is inserted into the Contact sleeve can be freely moved in the longitudinal direction of the contact pin or out of it in accordance with the resulting compression of the bracket German patent specification 704450 A a plug pin for electrical plugs is known in which a contact compression spring is formed in a recess in the plug pin from a wide groove running transversely to the longitudinal direction of the pin, on the two side flanks of which opposite holes are arranged, into which the two ends of an exposed, curved flat spring grab. It is also known to arrange a spring element between the contact pin of the plug and the contact socket, which is guided in a movable sleeve and does not conduct the electrical current. From the German patent specification 851217 B A plug with a spring clamp is known, with a spring with any preload and low specific surface pressure as a result of the almost full lateral surface of the plug pin being supported in the socket. The cylindrical connector pin and the parts generating the suspension are arranged inside the connector. The springs push at least one ring eccentrically beyond the cross section of the connector pin. The connector pin and the ring have approximately the same dimensions. When the plug is inserted into the socket, the ring is pushed out of the eccentricity as necessary against the spring pressure. It is also known that the contact pin itself represents a spring element. From the patent specification DD 16631 A1 Is a plug known? whose contact-mediating parts consist of several curved wire springs without a supporting center pin. The contact springs are hairpin-shaped and intertwined in groups at their insertion or bending end as a closed bundle and are held together by a covered cap. In contrast to the technical solution of the device for clamping connectors for the temporary non-positive clamping of contact pins of a plug in a socket of a socket, the plug finders mentioned only have a constant, non-changeable contact force and represent a compromise between the electrical properties and ease of use.

From the DE 102 43 900 B3 A control unit plug with anti-theft protection is known. In addition to the electrical connection contacts, the plug connection has a plug connection whose sockets or plug pins are made of a shape memory alloy. The pairs of sockets and corresponding socket pins have at least two shape memory alloys with two different conversion temperatures. In contrast to the present invention, shape memory alloys are only used here to mechanically secure the electrical connection contacts and have no influence on the contact force or the electrical contact resistance of the plug connection. From the DE 22 31 922 C3 a plug connection is known in which the socket has a spring clamping element and the clamping force for establishing the electrical connection to the socket is applied by a metal ring made of a shape memory alloy. From the US 4,487,465 A an electrical plug connection is known in which the metal sleeve of the socket is made of a shape memory alloy and from which US 4,720,270 A an electrical plug connection is known in which at least either the socket or the plug pin consist of a shape memory alloy. In contrast to the present invention of a device for clamping connectors for the temporary non-positive clamping of contact pins of a plug in a corresponding socket of a socket through the use of shape memory alloys as clamping or adjusting elements, the thermal energy supply occurs from an external source. The clamping connection is in austenite at room temperature and therefore generates clamping force. This means that the plug connection cannot be removed at room temperature. If the connection had to be loosened mechanically, a martensitic transformation of the shape memory components would have to take place. This can be initiated by external cooling.

The object of the present invention is to create a device for clamping connectors for the temporary non-positive clamping of contact pins of a plug in a corresponding contact socket of a socket through the use of shape memory materials as clamping or adjusting elements, which is of a simple structure and provides the necessary clamping force during the transmission of electrical power and at the same time reduces the force required for plugging and the electrical contact resistance, with the aim of preventing the plug connection from heating up unduly and increasing the electrical power transmission.

To solve this problem, the invention proposes a device for plug connectors for the temporary non-positive clamping of a contact pin of a plug in a corresponding contact socket of a socket, in which the contact pins of a plug and / or the contact sockets of a plug socket are either completely formed from an electrically conductive shape memory material and directly are provided as a clamping element or that clamping elements made of shape memory material are provided in the contact pins of the plug and / or on the contact sockets of the plug socket or that the contact pins of the plug or the contact sockets of the plug socket have clamping elements which, coupled with actuating elements made of shape memory material, are prevented from clamping in the non-operating state and can be brought into the clamping position in the operating state and the clamping or contact force of the contact pins of the plug in the contact sockets of the plug socket are provided in a switchable manner by the clamping or adjusting elements made of shape memory material.

When using the thermal effect, according to the invention, the shape memory component is present in the martensite at room temperature. Activation occurs through the self-heating of the plug connections during high electrical power transmission and is therefore provided internally and independently. This means that the clamping force of the shape memory component is only generated temporarily during high electrical power transmissions. At low power levels and in the inactive state, the clamping force is provided by the conventional spring force of the plug connection and is not generated by the shape memory effect.

The novel device according to the invention for clamping plug connectors for the temporary non-positive clamping of a contact pin of a plug in a corresponding contact socket of a socket has the advantage that components are used to temporarily change the clamping force Shape memory material can be used as clamping or adjusting elements and the required thermal energy is provided internally and independently. This results in a combination of easy insertion of the contact pin into a contact socket of a socket and a high contact force during operation with the resulting low contact resistance. This ensures optimal electrical power transmission. In contrast to conventional clamping mechanisms, the use of clamping and actuating elements made of shape memory material offers the possibility of temporarily changing the clamping force using simply constructed thermally activated actuators or pseudoelastic elements. The shape memory material is also characterized by a high power density. This means that high forces can be achieved with small material cross-sections and compact components. Furthermore, the shape memory materials have the ability to carry out different types of movements and are characterized by extensive freedom in the design of components. The basis for the use of the shape memory effect in a plug contact with repeatable mating is, on the one hand, the return to the original shape against an external force at a certain phase transition temperature in the thermal effect and, on the other hand, a temperature-dependent pseudo-elastic behavior with changeable stiffness in the mechanical effect. Because of their temperature sensitivity and freely selectable shape, shape memory components can be used as multifunctional components. They have the great advantage that, in principle, any component shape can be produced by shaping a semi-finished product made of a shape memory material into the desired design. This shape then represents the high-temperature shape and is impressed into the material through a tempering process. Wires, springs or sheets are preferably used as components.

It is advantageously provided that the contact pin arranged on the plug is designed as a deformable sleeve completely made of shape memory material and has slot-shaped recesses or openings. When heated, the shape memory sleeve changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved by expanding the contact pin of the plug against the contact socket. A reset of the clamping is provided by changing the shape or rigidity of the contact pin made of shape memory material during cooling. To improve electrical conductivity, the contact pin is preferably made of a copper-based shape memory alloy, such as CuAINi or CuAIMn.

It is also advantageous that the contact pin arranged on the plug is designed as an elastic sleeve with slot-shaped recesses or openings. At least one radially expanding or axially contracting clamping element made of shape memory material is provided in the contact pin. When heated, the elastic sleeve changes its shape or its rigidity due to the deformation of the shape memory element, such that an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved by expanding the contact pin of the plug against the contact socket. A reset of the clamping is provided by the spring force of the elastic contact pin and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element during cooling.

Preferably, it is further provided that the contact pins arranged on the plug are designed as slotted sleeves in which conical clamping elements which are radially displaceable on one or both sides are arranged coupled with shape memory elements as adjusting elements. When heated, the shape memory elements change their shape or rigidity in such a way that the conical clamping element can be retracted into the contact pin and the contact pin thereby presses against the contact socket and an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved. A reset of the clamping is provided by a return spring and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element during cooling.

A further advantageous embodiment of the device for clamping plug connectors is seen in that the contact pins arranged on the plug are formed from wire-shaped elastic clamping elements, of which at least one wire-shaped clamping element is formed from shape memory material. When heated, the shape memory wire elements change their shape or their rigidity in such a way that the clamping elements of the contact pins press against the contact socket and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved. The clamping is reset by the spring force of the clamping elements and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory elements during cooling.

Preferably, it is also provided that the contact pins arranged on the plug are designed as wire-shaped elastic clamping elements and in the space surrounded by the wire-shaped clamping elements a radially expanding or axially contracting shape memory element is arranged, which changes its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that press the clamping elements of the contact pins against the contact sockets and thereby increase the clamping and contact force of the plug connection connection. The clamping is reset by the spring force of the clamping elements and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element during cooling.

It is also seen as an advantageous variant that the contact pins arranged on the plug have a recess in which a wire-shaped clamping element made of shape memory material is arranged. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the shape memory element and the contact pin press against the contact socket and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved. The resetting of the clamping is also provided by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element during cooling.

It is also seen as an advantageous variant that the contact pins arranged on the plug have an elastic clamping element in the recess and an axially expanding or axially contracting adjusting element made of shape memory material. When heated, the shape memory control element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the deformation of the clamping element causes the clamping element and the contact pin to press against the contact socket, thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection. The clamping is reset by the spring force of the clamping element and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element during cooling.

Preferably, it is further provided that the contact pins arranged on the plug have a radially displaceable clamping element and an adjusting element made of shape memory material in the pocket-shaped recess. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the clamping element moves radially and thereby presses the clamping element and the contact pin against the contact socket, thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection. The clamping is reset by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

Further preferred embodiments consist of a radially displaceable wedge-shaped clamping element and a wedge-shaped adjusting element being arranged in the pocket-shaped recess of the contact pin of the plug. The wedge-shaped adjusting element is axially displaceable by the shape memory adjusting element. When heated, the shape memory adjusting element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the displacement of the wedge-shaped adjusting element and the associated radial movement of the wedge-shaped clamping element press the clamping element and the contact pin against the contact socket, thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection is reachable. A reset of the clamping is provided by a restoring spring acting against the wedge-shaped actuating element and by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

A further advantageous variant is seen in that the contact socket arranged on the socket is made entirely of shape memory material and with slot-shaped recesses or openings. When heated, the contact socket changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the contact socket presses against the contact pin and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved. A reset of the clamping is provided by changing the shape or rigidity of the contact socket during cooling. To improve electrical conductivity, the contact socket is preferably made of a copper-based shape memory alloy, such as CuAINi or CuAIMn.

Preferably, it is further provided that the contact socket arranged on the socket is elastically designed with slot-shaped recesses or openings and a radially or axially contracting clamping element made of shape memory material is provided either in the slot-shaped recesses or on the outside of the contact socket. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the contact socket presses against the contact pin and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved. The clamping is reset by the spring force of the elastic contact bushing and by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

An advantageous and simple embodiment of a device for clamping plug connectors is further seen in that the contact socket of the plug socket has wire-shaped elastic clamping elements, of which at least one is made of shape memory material. The wire-shaped clamping elements made from mold When heated, memory material changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the wire-shaped clamping elements deform and thereby press against the contact pin, thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection. The clamping is reset by the spring force of the elastic clamping elements and by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

An advantageous variant is also seen in that the contact socket of the plug socket has an axially displaceable elastic clamping element made of shape memory material. Areas of the displaceable clamping element change their shape or their rigidity when heated, such that these areas of the clamping element deform and press against the contact pin, thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection. The clamping is reset by changing the shape or rigidity of the areas of the clamping element made of shape memory material during cooling.

A further advantageous variant is seen in that the contact socket of the plug socket is formed from wire-shaped elastic clamping elements, on which an axially or radially contracting shape memory element is arranged. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the wire-shaped elastic clamping elements bulge inwards and thereby press against the contact pin arranged in the contact socket, thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection. The clamping is reset by the spring force of the elastic clamping elements and by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

It is also seen as an advantageous variant that the contact socket of the plug socket has an axially displaceable elastic clamping element which is coupled to at least one axially contracting or expanding shape memory element. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the clamping element is compressed and the wire-shaped sections of the clamping element press against the contact pin provided in the contact socket, thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection. The clamping is reset by the spring force of the elastic clamping element and by changing the shape or rigidity of the adjusting elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

As a further advantageous variant, it is seen that the contact socket of the plug socket has a recess in which an arcuate shape memory element is arranged. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the shape memory element presses against the contact pin arranged in the contact socket and an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can thereby be achieved. The shape memory element is supported on the contact sleeve or on the housing of the plug socket. The clamping is reset by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping element made of shape memory material during cooling.

Preferably, it is further provided that the contact socket of the plug socket has a recess in which a resilient clamping element is arranged, which is coupled to at least one shape memory element. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the resilient clamping element presses against the contact pin arranged in the contact socket, thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection. The clamping element is supported on the contact sleeve of the contact socket. The clamping is reset by the spring force of the elastic clamping element and by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

Further preferred embodiments are seen in that the contact socket of the plug socket has a radially displaceable clamping element and a shape memory element as an adjusting element for the clamping element in a pocket-shaped recess. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the radial movement causes the clamping element to press against the contact pin arranged in the contact socket, which is thereby pressed against the contact socket and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved . The clamping is reset by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

Preferably, it is further provided that two wedge-shaped elements are arranged in the pocket-shaped recess of the contact socket of the plug socket, one wedge-shaped element being provided so as to be axially displaceable and is coupled to an actuator made of shape memory material. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that due to the axial displacement of the wedge-shaped adjusting element, the wedge-shaped clamping element presses radially against the contact pin arranged in the contact socket, which is thereby pressed against the contact socket and thereby increases the clamping and Contact force of the plug connection can be achieved. The clamping is reset by the restoring spring acting against the wedge-shaped clamping element and by changing the shape or rigidity of the adjusting element made of shape memory material during cooling.

An advantageous variant is also seen in that the contact socket of the plug socket is designed as a slotted conical sleeve, which has an annular clamping element on the outside with an equivalently arranged conical surface, which is axially displaceable by an adjusting element made of shape memory material. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the conical sleeve is compressed by the displacement of the annular clamping element and presses against the contact pin. This makes it possible to increase the clamping and contact force of the plug connection. The clamping is reset by the restoring spring acting against the annular clamping element and by changing the shape or rigidity of the adjusting elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

A preferred embodiment is also seen in that the contact socket of the plug socket is designed as a slotted sleeve which has a bead or a shoulder and on the outside of which an annular clamping element is provided which is axially displaceable by an adjusting element made of shape memory material. When heated, the shape memory element changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the sleeve is compressed by the displacement of the annular clamping element over the bead and presses against the contact pin. This makes it possible to increase the clamping and contact force of the plug connection.

The clamping is reset by the restoring spring acting against the annular clamping element and by changing the shape or rigidity of the adjusting elements made of shape memory material during cooling.

What is advantageous in all embodiments of the device for clamping connectors is that the clamping or adjusting force provided by the clamping or adjusting elements made of shape memory material can be generated either by activating the thermal effect or by means of the temperature-dependent change in the rigidity of the mechanical effect.

The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments shown schematically in drawings.

• 1 Kontaktstifte in Form von geschlitzten Hülsen, die aus Formgedächtnismaterial ausgebildet sind;
• 2 Kontaktstifte in Form von geschlitzten federnden Hülsen, die Formgedächtniselemente als Stellelemente aufweisen;
• 3 Kontaktstifte in Form von geschlitzten federnden Hülsen, die Klemmelemente in Form eines Konus und Formgedächtniselemente als Stellelemente aufweisen;
• 4 Kontaktstifte aus drahtförmigen federnden Elementen, die vollständig oder teilweise aus Formgedächtnismaterial ausgebildet sind;
• 5 Kontaktstifte aus drahtförmigen federnden Elementen mit Stellelementen aus Formgedächtnismaterial;
• 6 Kontaktstifte aus einem oder mehreren drahtförmigen federnden Elementen, die vollständig oder teilweise aus Formgedächtnismaterial ausgebildet oder mit Formgedächtniselementen gekoppelt sind;
• 7 Kontaktstifte, die radial verschiebbare Klemmelemente gekoppelt mit Stellelementen aus Formgedächtnismaterial aufweisen;
• 8 Kontaktbuchsen in Form von geschlitzten Hülsen, die aus Formgedächtnismaterial ausgebildet sind;
• 9 Kontaktbuchsen in Form von geschlitzten federnden Hülsen, gekoppelt mit Stellelementen aus Formgedächtnismaterial;
• 10 Kontaktbuchsen aus drahtförmigen federnden Elementen, die alle oder vereinzelt aus Formgedächtnismaterial ausgebildet sind;
• 11 Kontaktbuchsen aus drahtförmigen federnden Elementen, die mit Stellelementen aus Formgedächtnismaterial gekoppelt sind;
• 12 Kontaktbuchsen mit drahtförmigen federnden Elementen, die aus Formgedächtnismaterial ausgebildet oder mit Formgedächtniselementen gekoppelt sind;
• 13 Kontaktbuchsen, die radial verschiebbare Klemmelemente und Stellelemente aus Formgedächtnismaterial aufweisen;
• 14 Kontaktbuchsen in Form von geschlitzten federnden Hülse mit axial verschiebbaren Klemmelementen und Stellelementen aus Formgedächtnismaterial.

Show it:

• 1 Contact pins in the form of slotted sleeves formed from shape memory material;
• 2 Contact pins in the form of slotted resilient sleeves which have shape memory elements as actuating elements;
• 3 Contact pins in the form of slotted resilient sleeves which have clamping elements in the form of a cone and shape memory elements as adjusting elements;
• 4 Contact pins made of wire-shaped resilient elements which are completely or partially formed from shape memory material;
• 5 Contact pins made of wire-shaped resilient elements with control elements made of shape memory material;
• 6 Contact pins made of one or more wire-shaped resilient elements formed entirely or partially from shape memory material or coupled to shape memory elements;
• 7 Contact pins that have radially displaceable clamping elements coupled with actuating elements made of shape memory material;
• 8th Contact sockets in the form of slotted sleeves formed from shape memory material;
• 9 Contact sockets in the form of slotted resilient sleeves, coupled with actuating elements made of shape memory material;
• 10 Contact sockets made of wire-shaped resilient elements, all or some of which are made of shape memory material;
• 11 Contact sockets made of wire-shaped resilient elements which are coupled to actuating elements made of shape memory material;
• 12 Contact sockets with wire-shaped resilient elements formed from shape memory material or coupled to shape memory elements;
• 13 Contact sockets that have radially displaceable clamping elements and adjusting elements made of shape memory material;
• 14 Contact sockets in the form of slotted resilient sleeves with axially displaceable clamping elements and adjusting elements made of shape memory material.

In the 1 until 14 Various exemplary embodiments of devices for clamping connectors with clamping or adjusting elements made of shape memory material are shown.

The 1a , 1b show exemplary embodiments of a plug 1 with a clamping device, in which the contact pins 2 arranged on the plug 1 are designed as deformable sleeves made entirely of shape memory material and have at least one slot-shaped recess 3 or the contact pin 2 is corresponding 1c designed as a cylinder made entirely of shape memory material with a continuous slot-shaped opening 3. When heated, the contact pin 2 expands radially and is pressed against a contact socket 14.

The 2a , 2 B , 2c , 2d show exemplary embodiments of the plug 1 with a clamping device, in which the contact pins 2 arranged on the plug 1 are designed as a deformable sleeve which have at least one slot-shaped recess or opening 3. Radially expanding or axially contracting shape memory elements 4 in the form of annular elements, wires or sheets are preferably arranged in the deformable sleeves. In 2c the contact pin 2 is designed as a cylinder with a continuous slot-shaped opening 3, in which a radially expanding shape memory element 4 is arranged. The shape memory elements 4 press the contact pin 2 against the contact socket 14 when it heats up.

The 3a , 3b show exemplary embodiments of the plug 1 with a clamping device, in which the contact pins 2 are designed as slotted sleeves, in which conical clamping elements 5 in the form of a cone which can be radially displaceable on one or both sides are arranged coupled with shape memory elements 4 as adjusting elements for the conical clamping elements 5. When heated, the shape memory elements 4 pull the conical clamping element 5 into the sleeve-shaped contact pin 2 and press it against the contact socket 14. The clamping connection is reset by a return spring 6 acting against the conical clamping element 5.

The 4a , 4b , 4c , 4d , 4e , 4f show exemplary embodiments of the plug 1 with a clamping device, in which the contact pins 2 are formed from wire-shaped elastic clamping elements 7, of which at least one clamping element 7 is designed as a shape memory element 4. The wire-shaped elastic clamping elements 7 and the shape memory elements 4 are arranged in an elliptical or straight line and extending at a distance from one another. The wire-shaped shape memory elements 4 press against the contact socket 14 when heated and deformed 4e and 4f The wire-shaped clamping elements are additionally secured with a cap.

The 5a , 5b show exemplary embodiments of the plug 1 with a clamping device, in which the contact pins 2 arranged on the plug 1 are designed as wire-shaped elastic clamping elements 7 in a straight line or curved and extending at a distance from one another. In the space enclosed by the wire-shaped clamping elements 7, radially expanding or axially contracting shape memory elements 4 are arranged, so that when heated, the wire-shaped clamping elements 7 are pressed by the deforming shape memory elements 4 against which the contact sockets 14 are pressed.

The 6a , 6b , 6c , 6d show exemplary embodiments of the plug 1 with a clamping device, in which the cylindrical contact pins 2 arranged on the plug 1 have pocket-shaped recesses 8 in the form of recesses ( 6a , 6b) or grooves ( 6c , 6d ) in which wire-shaped shape memory elements 4 or elastic wire-shaped clamping elements 7 are arranged, which are coupled to axially contracting or axially expanding shape memory elements 4, so that when heated, the wire-shaped shape memory elements 4 or wire-shaped clamping elements 7 press against the contact socket 14.

The 7a , 7b , 7c , 7d , show exemplary embodiments of the plug 1 with a clamping device, in which radially displaceable clamping elements 9 and shape memory elements 4 are arranged as adjusting elements in pocket-shaped recesses 8 of the contact pins 2. When heated by the shape memory elements 4, the clamping elements 9 are displaced radially and press against the contact socket 14.

The 7e shows a variant of the clamping device, in which a radially displaceable wedge-shaped clamping element 10 and a wedge-shaped adjusting element 11 are arranged in the pocket-shaped recess 8 of the contact pin 2 of the plug 1. The wedge-shaped adjusting element 11 is formed by the shape Memory element 4 is axially displaceable, so that when heated there is an axial displacement of the wedge-shaped adjusting element 11 and an associated radial movement of the wedge-shaped clamping element 10, which presses the contact pin 2 against the contact socket 14. The clamping is reset by a return spring 12 acting against the wedge-shaped adjusting element 11.

The 8a , 8b , 8c , 8d show exemplary embodiments of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which the contact socket 14 arranged on the plug socket 13 is made entirely of shape memory material and has at least one slot-shaped recess 16, 17, so that when heated, the contact socket 14 presses against the inserted contact pin 2. The 9a , 9b show exemplary embodiments of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which the contact socket 14 arranged on the plug socket 13 is designed as elastic with a plurality of slot-shaped recesses 16 or an opening 17 arranged parallel to one another on the circumference. A radially or axially contracting shape memory element 4 is arranged in the slot-shaped recesses 16 or on the outside of the contact socket 14, so that when heated, the contact socket 14 is compressed by the shape memory element 4 and presses against the inserted contact pin 2.

The 10a , 10b , 10c show exemplary embodiments of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which the contact sockets 14 are formed from wire-shaped elastic clamping elements 18, 4, of which at least one is designed as a shape memory element 4. The wire-shaped shape memory elements 4 deform when heated and thereby press against the inserted contact pin 2. In 10c a variant is shown in which an axially displaceable elastic clamping element 19 is arranged in the contact socket 14 of the plug socket 13, which consists wholly or partially of shape memory material, so that the sections made of shape memory material 4 deform when heated and against which in the contact socket 14 Press the inserted contact pin 2.

The 11a , 11b show exemplary embodiments of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which the contact socket 14 of the plug socket 13 is formed from wire-shaped elastic clamping elements 18, on which axially or radially contracting shape memory elements 4 are arranged. When heated, the wire-shaped clamping elements 18 bulge inward through the shape memory elements 4 and press against the contact pin 2 inserted into the contact socket 14.

A variant of the clamping device exists according to the 11c , 11 d in that an axially displaceable elastic clamping element 19 is arranged in the contact socket 14 of the plug socket 13, which is coupled to at least one axially contracting or expanding shape memory element 4. When heated, the axially displaceable clamping element 19 is compressed by the shape memory element 4 and its wire-shaped clamping elements 18 press against the contact pin 2 inserted into the contact socket 14.

The 12a , 12b show exemplary embodiments of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which the contact sockets 14 of the plug socket 13 have pocket-shaped recesses 20, in which arcuate, wire-shaped shape memory elements 4 are arranged, which deform when heated so that they press against the contact pin 2 inserted into the contact socket 14 press. The 12b shows an outer contact sleeve 15 on which the shape memory element 4 is supported. Further variants of the clamping device exist according to the 12c , 12d in that in the pocket-shaped recesses 20 of the contact sockets 14 of the plug socket 13 resilient clamping elements 21 are arranged, which are coupled to shape memory element 4, so that when heated, the resilient clamping elements 21 contract due to the coupled shape memory elements 4 and bulge inwards and against the Press the contact pin 2 inserted into the contact socket 14. In the 12d the clamping element 21 is supported against an outer contact sleeve 15.

The 13a , 13b show exemplary embodiments of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which radially displaceable clamping elements 22 are arranged in the pocket-shaped recesses 20 of the contact sockets 14 of the plug socket 13, which can be adjusted by means of shape memory elements 4. When heated, the radially displaceable clamping elements 22 are moved radially by the shape memory adjusting elements 4 and pressed against the contact pin 2 inserted into the contact socket 14. The 13c , 13d show exemplary embodiments of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which a wedge-shaped adjusting element 23 and a wedge-shaped clamping element 24 are arranged in the pocket-shaped recesses 20 of the contact sockets 14 of the plug socket 13. The wedge-shaped adjusting element 23 is axially displaceable and coupled to a shape memory element 4 as an adjusting element, so that when the shape memory element 4 is heated, an axial displacement of the wedge-shaped adjusting element 23 takes place and the wedge-shaped clamping element 24 is displaced radially and against the one inserted into the contact socket 14 Contact pin 2 presses. The The clamping is reset by the return spring 25 acting against the wedge-shaped adjusting element 23.

The 14a shows a further exemplary embodiment of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which the contact socket 14 of the plug socket 13 is designed as a slotted conical sleeve 26, which has an annular clamping element 27 on the outside with a conical surface arranged equivalent to the conical sleeve 26. The annular clamping element 27 is axially displaceable and coupled to the shape memory element 4. When heated, the annular clamping element 27 shifts by means of the shape memory element 4 and as a result the conical sleeve 26 is compressed and clamps the contact pin 2 inserted into the contact socket 14. The clamping is reset by the return spring 25 acting against the annular clamping element 27.

The 14b shows a further exemplary embodiment of the plug socket 13 with a clamping device, in which the contact socket 14 of the plug socket 13 is designed as a slotted sleeve 28 which has a bead or a shoulder and on the outside of which an annular clamping element 27 is arranged. The annular clamping element 27 is axially displaceable and coupled to the shape memory element 4. When heated, the annular clamping element 27 is pushed over the bead by means of the shape memory element 4, whereby the sleeve 28 is compressed and the contact pin 2 inserted into the contact socket 14 is clamped. The clamping is also reset by the return spring 25 acting against the annular clamping element 27.

The clamping or adjusting force provided by the clamping or adjusting elements made of shape memory material 4 can be generated either by activating the thermal effect by means of heating or by the temperature-dependent change in stiffness in the mechanical effect. The clamping is generally reset by the spring force of the elastic clamping elements and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory elements during cooling.

In all exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the clamping or adjusting elements made from shape memory material are made in particular from round or flat material.

In all exemplary embodiments in which the contact pin or the contact socket consists entirely of shape memory material, a copper-based shape memory alloy, such as CuAINi or CuAIMn, is preferably used to improve the electrical conductivity.

Reference symbol list

1

Plug

2

Contact pin

3

slot-shaped recess in the contact pin

4

Shape memory element

5

conical clamping element

6

return spring

7

wire-shaped clamping element

8th

pocket-shaped recess in the contact pin

9

Radially movable clamping element in the contact pin

10

wedge-shaped clamping element

11

wedge-shaped adjusting element

12

return spring

13

Socket

14

Contact socket

15

contact sleeve

16

slot-shaped recess in contact sleeve

17

Continuous opening in contact sleeve

18

wire-shaped clamping element in contact socket

19

Axially movable clamping element in contact socket

20

pocket-shaped recess in contact socket

21

resilient clamping element in contact socket

22

Radially movable clamping element in contact socket

23

wedge-shaped actuating element in contact socket

24

wedge-shaped clamping element in contact socket

25

return spring

26

conical sleeve

27

ring-shaped clamping element in contact socket

28

Sleeve with bead

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

Cited patent literature

• DE 102009001573 B3 [0002]
• DE 102004040118 A1 [0002]
• DE 328908 [0002]
• DE 704450 A [0002]
• DE 851217 B [0002]
• DD 16631 A1 [0002]
• DE 10243900 B3 [0003]
• DE 2231922 C3 [0003]
• US 4487465 A [0003]
• US 4720270 A [0003]

Claims (23)

Clamping device for plug connectors for the temporary non-positive clamping of contact pins of a plug in a corresponding socket of a socket by using shape memory materials as clamping or adjusting elements, characterized in that the contact pins (2) of a plug (1) and / or the contact sockets (14 ) a plug socket (13) is formed entirely of an electrically conductive shape memory material and is provided directly as clamping elements or that clamping elements made of shape memory material are provided in the contact pins (2) of the plug (1) and / or on the contact sockets (14) of the plug socket (13). or that the contact pins (2) of the plug (1) or the contact sockets (14) of the plug socket (13) have clamping elements which, coupled with actuating elements made of shape memory material (4), are prevented from clamping in the non-operating state and can be brought into the clamping position in the operating state and wherein the clamping or contact force of the contact pins (2) of the plug (1) in the contact sockets (14) of the plug socket (13) is provided so that they can be switched by the clamping or adjusting elements (4) made of shape memory material. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact pins (2) arranged on the plug (1) are designed as deformable sleeves made entirely of shape memory material and have slot-shaped recesses or openings (3), the sleeves changing their shape or their rigidity when heated, such that that by expanding the contact pin (2) of the plug (1) against the contact socket (14), an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping can be reset by changing the shape or rigidity of the contact pin (2). Shape memory material is provided during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact pins (2) arranged on the plug (1) are designed as an elastic sleeve with slot-shaped recesses or openings (3), with at least one radially expanding or axially contracting clamping element made of shape memory material (4) in each contact pin (2). ) is provided, which changes its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved by expanding the contact pin (2) of the plug (1) against the contact socket (14), and where a reset of the clamping is provided by the spring force of the elastic contact pin (2) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact pins (2) arranged on the plug (1) are designed as slotted sleeves, in which conical clamping elements (5) which are radially displaceable on one or both sides are coupled with shape memory elements (4) as adjusting elements for the conical clamping elements (5 ) are arranged, the shape memory elements (4) changing their shape or rigidity when they are heated, such that the conical clamping element (5) can be retracted into the contact pin (2) and thereby exerts pressure against the contact socket (14), increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and a return spring (6) and the change in the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element (4) during cooling are provided for the reset of the clamping device. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact pins (2) arranged on the plug (1) are designed as wire-shaped elastic clamping elements (7), of which at least one wire-shaped clamping element (7) is made of shape memory material, the shape memory wire elements (4) when heated change their shape or their rigidity in such a way that the clamping elements (7) of the contact pins (2) press against the contact sockets (14) and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping can be reset by the spring force the clamping elements (7) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory elements (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact pins (2) arranged on the plug (1) are designed as wire-shaped elastic clamping elements (7), a radially expanding or axially contracting shape memory element (4) being arranged in the space enclosed by the wire-shaped clamping elements (7). is, which changes its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the clamping elements (7) of the contact pins (2) press against the contact sockets (14) and thereby an increase in the clamping contact force of the plug-in connection can be achieved and the clamping can be reset by the spring force of the clamping elements (7) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the Shape memory element (4) is provided during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact pins (2) arranged on the plug (1) have a recess (8) in which a clamping element made of shape memory material (4) is arranged, the shape memory element (4) changing its shape or its rigidity when heated changes, in such a way that the shape memory element (4) and the contact pin (2) press against the contact socket (14) and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping can be reset by changing the shape or rigidity of the Shape memory element (4) is provided during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact pins (2) arranged on the plug (1) have a recess (8) in which an elastic clamping element (7) and an axially expanding or axially contracting actuating element made of shape memory material (4) are arranged, the Shape memory adjusting element (4) changes its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the deformation of the clamping element (7) presses the clamping element (7) and the contact pin (2) against the contact socket (14), thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping is reset by the spring force of the clamping element (7) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact pins (2) arranged on the plug (1) have a pocket-shaped recess (8) in which a radially displaceable clamping element (9) and an adjusting element made of shape memory material (4) are arranged, the shape memory element (4 ) when heated, its shape or its rigidity changes in such a way that the radial movement of the clamping element (9) presses the clamping element (9) and the contact pin (2) against the contact socket (14), thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the Plug connection can be reached and a reset of the clamping is provided by changing the shape or rigidity of the adjusting elements made of shape memory material (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that a radially displaceable wedge-shaped clamping element (10) and a wedge-shaped adjusting element (11) are arranged in the pocket-shaped recess (8) of the contact pin (2) of the plug (1), the wedge-shaped adjusting element (11) being controlled by a shape memory adjusting element (4) is axially displaceable and the shape memory control element (4) changes its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the displacement of the wedge-shaped control element (11) and the associated radial movement of the wedge-shaped clamping element (10) causes the clamping element ( 10) and the contact pin (2) press against the contact socket (14) and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping is reset by a return spring (12) acting against the wedge-shaped actuating element (11) and through the change in the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material (4) is provided during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) arranged on the socket (13) is made entirely of shape memory material with slot-shaped recesses (16), the contact socket (14) changing its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the contact socket (14) presses against the contact pin (2) and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and a resetting of the clamping is provided by changing the shape or rigidity of the contact socket (14) made of shape memory material during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) arranged on the plug socket (13) is elastically designed with slot-shaped recesses (16) or openings (17), either in the slot-shaped recesses (16) or on the outside of the contact socket (14) a radially or axially contracting clamping element made of shape memory material (4) is provided, the shape memory element (4) changing its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the contact socket (14) presses against the contact pin (2), thereby increasing the Clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and a reset of the clamping is provided by the spring force of the elastic contact socket (14) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) of the socket (13) has wire-shaped elastic clamping elements (4, 18), of which at least one is made of shape memory material, the wire-shaped clamping elements (4) made of shape memory material changing their shape or their rigidity when heated, such that the wire-shaped clamping elements ( 4,18) deform and thereby presses the contact socket (14) against the contact pin (2) and an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping can be reset by the spring force of the elastic clamping elements (18) and by the change the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material (4) is provided during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that an axially displaceable elastic clamping element (19) is arranged in the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13), which is made of shape memory material, the sections (4) of the clamping element (19) changing their shape when heated change their rigidity in such a way that the sections (4) of the clamping element (19) deform and press against the contact pin (2), thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection and the clamping can be reset by changing the Shape or rigidity of the sections (4) of the clamping element made of shape memory material (19) is provided during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13) is formed from wire-shaped elastic clamping elements (18), on which an axially or radially contracting shape memory element (4) is arranged, the shape memory element (4) changing its shape when heated or changes its rigidity, such that the wire-shaped elastic clamping elements (18) bulge inwards and thereby press against the contact pin (2) arranged in the contact socket (14), thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection and whereby a reset of the clamping is provided by the spring force of the elastic clamping elements (18) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping elements made of shape memory material (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that an axially displaceable elastic clamping element (19) is arranged in the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13), which is coupled to at least one axially contracting or expanding shape memory element (4), the shape memory element (4) being at one Heating changes its shape or its rigidity in such a way that the clamping element (19) is compressed and the wire-shaped sections of the clamping element (18) press against the contact pin (2) provided in the contact socket (14), thereby increasing the clamping and contact force the plug connection can be reached and the clamping is reset by the spring force of the elastic wire-shaped clamping elements (18) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the adjusting elements made of shape memory material (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13) has a recess (20) in which an arcuate shape memory element (4) is arranged, the shape memory element (4) changing its shape or its rigidity when heated, in such a way that the shape memory element (4) presses against the contact pin (2) arranged in the contact socket (14) and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved, the shape memory element (4) being located on the contact sleeve (15) or supported on the housing of the plug socket (13) and a resetting of the clamping is provided by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping element made of shape memory material (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13) in the recess (20) has a resilient clamping element (21) which is coupled to at least one shape memory element (4), the shape memory element (4) being heated when heated Shape or its rigidity changes in such a way that the resilient clamping element (21) presses against the contact pin (2) arranged in the contact socket (14), thereby increasing the clamping and contact force of the plug connection and the clamping element (21). the contact sleeve (15) of the contact socket (14) is supported and the clamping is reset by the spring force of the elastic clamping element (21) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the shape memory element (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13) in the pocket-shaped recess (20) has a radially displaceable clamping element (22) and the shape memory element (4) as an adjusting element for the clamping element (22), wherein the shape memory element (4) changes its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the clamping element (22) is moved radially and presses against the contact pin (2) arranged in the contact socket (14) and As a result, an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping can be reset by changing the shape or rigidity of the adjusting elements made of shape memory material (4) during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13) in the pocket-shaped recess (20) has a radially displaceable wedge-shaped clamping element (24) and an axially displaceable wedge-shaped adjusting element (23), the wedge-shaped adjusting element (23) also an actuating element made of shape memory material (4), the shape memory element (4) changing its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the axial displacement of the wedge-shaped actuating element (23) causes the wedge-shaped clamping element (24) to move radially against the one in the Contact socket (14) arranged contact pin (2) presses and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping can be reset by the restoring spring (25) acting against the wedge-shaped actuating element (23) and by changing the shape or Stiffness of the adjusting element made of shape memory material (4) is provided during cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13) is designed as a slotted conical sleeve (26), an axially displaceable annular clamping element (27) with an equivalently arranged conical surface being provided on the outside of the conical sleeve (26). is, which is coupled to an adjusting element made of shape memory material (4), the shape memory element (4) changing its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the displacement of the annular clamping element (27) causes the conical sleeve (26) to move against the Contact pin (2) presses and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping is reset by the return spring (25) acting against the annular clamping element (27) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the adjusting element made of shape memory material (4) is provided for cooling. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the contact socket (14) of the plug socket (13) is designed as a slotted sleeve (28) which has a bead or a shoulder and on the outside of which an axially displaceable annular clamping element (27) is provided, which is connected to an adjusting element made of shape memory material (4), the shape memory element (4) changing its shape or its rigidity when heated, such that the displacement of the annular clamping element (27) over the bead causes the sleeve (28) to move against the contact pin (2). presses and thereby an increase in the clamping and contact force of the plug connection can be achieved and the clamping can be reset by the return spring (25) acting against the clamping element (27) and by changing the shape or rigidity of the clamping element made of shape memory material (4). Cooling is provided. Device for clamping connectors Claim 1 , characterized in that the clamping or adjusting force provided by the clamping or adjusting elements made of shape memory material (4) can be generated either by thermal activation or by means of the temperature-dependent change in the pseudoelastic behavior.

Images