EP1182736A2 - Connection assembly for flexible foils - Google Patents

Abstract

The arrangement has at least one contact element with at least one flex foil contact area for contacting a conducting foil track on the flex foil. The contact area is formed on a cantilever arm (42a',42a'',42b',42b'') made in one piece with the contact element and is at a distance from a chamber. A holder for one or more contact elements has openings for rear isertion of contact pins or similar into the contact element(s).

Description

The present invention relates to a flex foil contact arrangement according to the preamble of the independent claim.

Flex films are thin plastic films on which one or several metallic conductor tracks are attached. These flex films are characterized by their light weight and due to of the thin material due to its flexibility. With accordingly The foils are not only a wide conductor track layout for data signal transmission, but also for energy supply Can be used by consumers such as LEDs etc. It is also already known, contact arrangements at the ends of the flex foils to be provided on which the flex film is contacted.

In comparison to conventional cables, also ribbon cables low weight makes the use of flexible films in the automotive sector particularly attractive.

Is problematic when using flexible film conductors in the automotive sector however the need for transitions at the head end to create consumers, buses, power supplies, etc. which is constantly changing even under unfavorable conditions Temperatures, vibrations etc. a permanently safe Ensure contacting, which moreover is easy to connect and an unproblematic solution to the connection for example in the case of repairs with a low weight of the arrangement guaranteed. It also often proves to be useful of flexible film conductors in the automotive sector. Is often further desirable, an accidental sliding out of a flexible film from the contact arrangement during assembly and the like to avoid particularly well.

The object of the present invention is to create something new to provide for commercial use.

The solution to this problem is claimed independently. preferred Embodiments can be found in the subclaims.

It is therefore first according to an essential aspect of the The present invention proposed that in a flexible film contact arrangement for automotive applications or the like at least one contact element with a flexible film contact area it is provided that the flexible film contact area through one integrally connected to the contact pin receiving chamber Cantilever arm is formed, one of the contact pin receiving chamber spaced contact area for contact the conductor foil track includes.

This suggests that the transition from connector pins to the flex film using a spacing arm takes place so that the actual contact point on the Flex film from the flex film contact area spatially through a Cantilever arm separated from a fixation of the contact element can be. About the spacing e.g. to a contact chamber, for the intended insertion of plug pins is fixed comparatively rigid, and the location of the flex foil contact area a connection is achieved that is special is well suited to compensate for vibrations. This is how one becomes improved coupling of the arrangement to the conductor foil achieved.

In a preferred variant of the invention there are a plurality provided by contact elements, in particular in a common Bracket are housed. This bracket can in turn in turn have a conductor track fixing area. For this purpose, the holder can be in a particularly preferred Variant have a lid that can be folded over the extension arm. The hinged lid can be designed to Fix the conductor track and / or the cantilever arm to the support area. So the contact point can on the one hand against mechanical Damage caused by foreign bodies is particularly effective from the outside protected and on the other hand against a contact fault can be prevented by moving flexible foils.

The bracket can have openings for inserting the rear Have contact pins, it being particularly preferred that if the contact pin receiving chamber has four walls and in particular has a generally square cross section, on at least two opposite walls of the contact pin receiving chamber Contact pin centering springs arranged are. These can be behind a rear insertion funnel in the contact pin receiving chamber by driving in a tab be educated. This way is a clean and vibration-proof Centering the pins in the contact pin chamber ensures what operational safety in particular elevated. It is particularly preferred if there is also a third spring tongue inside the contact pin receiving chamber on the Contact pin comes into contact because that is the vibration resistance further increased.

The cantilever arm is in a preferred embodiment not straight, but curved. This allows one stronger absorption of movements between flex film and Contact arrangement or of the contact element and connector pin. The Cantilever arm can in particular be designed to be resilient.

It is particularly preferred if the cantilever arm is one for fixed Connection with the conductor track formed contact area having. The firm connection can be done by soldering the Contact area done on the trace or using a roughened contact surface which is formed by their roughening penetrates the conductor insulation and / or digs into the conductor track. This roughening is particularly preferred and advantageous because it is a good and All-over contacting in the contact area enables. To the roughening can have a profile or height of at least Own 0.1mm. It is particularly advantageous that and if the contact surface is arranged at the end of the cantilever arm. This enables the roughening to be relative to the contact Flex film moves and so well through the insulation digs. It is possible to make the entire contact element from one to produce a single stamped and stamped part in one piece, only Different training in the area of the contact surface is required for the embossed or soldered version. On this is a particularly simple and cost-effective way Toolmaking possible, simply by changing parts to the overall embossing shape to be provided.

It is further preferred if the support area on the cantilever arm at least one tooth tip for insertion into the flex film is provided. This ensures that the flex film fixed even further by a tooth penetrating this becomes. On the one hand, the piercing prevents the Flex film can be pulled out easily, and on the other hand, that it slips sideways, leading to reverse polarity certain lines can lead against each other. A bend this tooth is not required. Rather, even without Crimping or the like achieved an improved fixation. The tooth tip is typically and preferably at least in penetrate the flex film base film and at least deform it, but preferably pierce. The tooth tip is typically in one piece with the metal sheet arm punched out and bent over.

It is preferred to close the tooth tip from the support area so far that they are in a flex foil area free of a conductor track punctures. This prevents the trace from being destroyed will and deviations from the electrical setpoints occur. In addition, there is a risk of a separation of positions, i.e. one Separation of base film and conductor track prevented. To do that Ensure insertion into a flex foil area free of a conductor track To be able to, it is particularly preferred if the tooth tip sideways at a suitable distance next to the support area is arranged.

The support area can be at a point of closest approximation of the cantilevered extension arm to the flexible film provided his; in such a case it is particularly preferred if the tooth tip is provided distally from the support area, that is further away from the contact pin receiving chamber. This causes, that the contact area first comes into contact with the flex film is pressed, then one if necessary at the support area intended roughening through the flexible foil insulation over the Dig through or rub through the conductor track and only after Insertion of this process fixates the tooth tip in the Flex film is pressed in.

It is possible to make the tooth tip generally sword-shaped, with a parallel to the cantilever arm or to the conductor track of greater width than transverse to the cantilever arm or to the conductor track. This results in a fixing elongated hole at the puncture, that for damage-free force absorption against displacement is particularly suitable.

It is possible and preferred if the cantilever arm is resilient is designed. In such a case the tooth tip has preferably a length that is also with resilient yielding Cantilever arm lowering the lower end of the tooth tip below the flex film guaranteed. In conjunction with a curved Execution of the cantilever arm also causes the resilient design of the cantilever arm a stronger movement absorption between flex film and contact arrangement or from Contact end and connector pin.

The tooth tip can be used in particular for piercing or piercing be formed a conductor-free flexible film area. So are the forces acting on the tooth tip are lower, which is advantageous during assembly and with the same material thickness too leads to lower error rates. The tooth tip can do this immediately to the side next to the area of the electrical contact be formed between the flex film and the contact element. This ensures that the fixation effect is particularly positive on the electrical properties of the flex foil contact arrangement effect. Electrical contacting by means of according to the invention, the tooth is not absolutely necessary, albeit possible in principle.

According to a further preferred aspect of the invention, at a flex foil contact arrangement suggested that the tooth is formed with a positive locking means to a positive Intervention of the tooth penetrated by the flexible film to be provided at the support area.

This preferred training, in which a positive engagement is achieved is particularly advantageous because by the positive locking a loosening of the tooth and / or a movement the same, in particular only a slight back and forth movement can be prevented, which would otherwise have a negative impact on the Long-term stability of the flex film affects. It is preferred if the flex foil contact arrangement is designed such that the Tooth tip is formed to push through the flexible film automatically is. Otherwise, e.g. the film is pre-punched, but which is usually an additional step is rather undesirable.

A recess can be provided in the support area, through which the tooth can bump. This ensures that the Tooth just has to push through the thin flex film and then in and / or can form-fit with the recess.

The tooth can have a notch on the contact area can be locked. In this case, the form fit is Locking achieved.

The support area is in a particularly preferred variant and the tooth is provided on a respective extension arm, which each has a curvature towards the flex film, wherein the tooth tip is provided distal from the support area. This allows, especially if the cantilever arm is resilient is such a resilience of being in with each other Interfering elements to achieve that with positive locking pressure is exerted on the flex film.

It is further preferred if with a flexible film contact arrangement for automotive applications or the like. With a housing and at least one provided therein for a contact element Flexfoil contact area is provided that between Housing entry and flex foil contact area a relief arrangement is provided.

According to a basic idea of further training, it can be used for repairs or the like. Receive a particularly secure connection because it is ensured that in the actual flex foil contact area no excessive stress occurs. This allows even if the connection, as preferred, is designed to be able to conduct high currents over the contacts.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the development, the relief arrangement can be formed by a loop bow, which is implemented in particular by a cam, in particular a cam which hangs from a cam cover which can preferably be folded down, in particular pivotally attached to a film hinge, which cam can be up to and preferably in one Recess enters the housing bottom and around which the conductor track film can be pulled. As a result of this deflection, the conductor track film experiences frictional restraint.
While the variant with loop bow can be implemented without further measures, in another preferred exemplary embodiment it can be provided that retaining sheets are provided which pass through corresponding openings in the conductor track film and thus hold it back in a form-fitting manner. The retaining leaves can in turn be provided on the housing cover, which in turn can preferably be arranged in a foldable manner, in particular on a film hinge.

The strain relief is both for the transition from trace foils to consumers or other plugs as well for that Connection of conductor foils can be used together.

Fig.1

eine Flexfolienkontaktanordnung gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung mit geöffnetem Klappdeckel;

Fig. 2a

eine weitere Flexfolienkontaktanordnung gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung mit geschlossenem Klappdeckel im Schnitt;

Fig 2b

eine Flexfolienkontaktanordnung gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung mit geschlossenem Klappdekkel ausgeführt als weibliche Variante in perspektivischer Ansicht;

Fig 2c

eine Flexfolienkontaktanordnung gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung mit geschlossenem Klappdekkel ausgeführt als männliche Variante in perspektivischer Ansicht;

Fig.3

ein Kontaktelement der Flexfolienkontaktanordnung gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung in einer Lötvariante;

Fig. 4

das Kontaktelement von Fig. 3 im Schnitt;

Fig. 5

das Kontaktelement von Fig. 3 in der Vorderansicht;

Fig. 6

das auf einer Flexfolienleiterbahn aufliegende Kontaktelement von Fig. 3;

Fig. 7a,b

ein alternatives Kontaktelement mit einer Aufrauhung zum Eingraben in eine Flexfolienleiterbahn von zwei Seiten;

Fig. 8a,b

ein nicht aufgefaltetes Kontaktelement der vorliegenden Erfindung mit Prägungen und Stanzungen in perspektivischer Ansicht von oben und unten.

Figur 9

ein Kontaktelement 4 gemäß der vorliegenden Weiterbildung in Perspektivansicht;

Figur 10

eine bevorzugte Variante der Weiterbildung;

Figur 11

eine weitere Erfindungsausgestaltung.

Fig. 12a

eine weitere Flexfolienkontaktanordnung

Fig. 12b

die weitere Flexfolienkontaktanordnung in offenem Zustand

Fig. 13a

die Flexfolienkontaktanordnung entsprechend Fig. 12 offen ohne Folie im Schnitt;

Fig. 13b

die Flexfolienkontaktanordnung ohne Flexfolie im Schnitt;

Fig. 13c

die Flexfolienkontaktanordnung entsprechend Fig. 12 in Zustand mit Flexfolie

Fig. 14a-d

Varianten der Erfindung für verschiedene Kontaktierungsaufgaben;

Fig. 15

eine weitere Flexfolienkontaktanordnung.

Fig. 16

eine Schnittansicht durch einen erfindungsgemäßen Leiterfolienverbinder;

Fig. 17

ein Kontaktelement mit dem Verbinder in perspektivischer Ansicht;

Fig. 18

das Kontaktelement im Schnitt;

Fig. 19

eine Draufsicht auf den Verbinder ohne Deckel;

Fig. 20

die Anordnung mit aufgesetztem Deckel;

Fig. 21

die Anordnung mit einseitig eingeschobener Leiterfolie;

Fig. 22

die Unterseite des Leiterfolienverbinders.

Fig. 23a,b

den Leiterfolienverbinder im Schnitt

The invention is described below only by way of example with reference to the drawing. In this shows:

Fig.1

a flex foil contact assembly according to the present invention with the hinged lid open;

Fig. 2a

a further flex foil contact arrangement according to the present invention with closed hinged lid in section;

Fig. 2b

a flexible film contact arrangement according to the present invention with closed hinged lid designed as a female variant in a perspective view;

Fig 2c

a flexible foil contact arrangement according to the present invention with closed hinged lid designed as a male variant in a perspective view;

Figure 3

a contact element of the flex foil contact arrangement according to the present invention in a soldering variant;

Fig. 4

the contact element of Figure 3 in section.

Fig. 5

the contact element of Figure 3 in front view.

Fig. 6

the contact element of FIG. 3 resting on a flexible foil conductor track;

7a, b

an alternative contact element with a roughening for digging into a flexible foil conductor track from two sides;

8a, b

an unfolded contact element of the present invention with embossing and punching in a perspective view from above and below.

Figure 9

a contact element 4 according to the present development in perspective view;

Figure 10

a preferred variant of further training;

Figure 11

another embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 12a

another flex foil contact arrangement

Fig. 12b

the further flex foil contact arrangement in the open state

13a

the flex foil contact arrangement according to FIG. 12 open without foil in section;

Fig. 13b

the flex foil contact arrangement without flex foil in section;

13c

the flex foil contact arrangement according to FIG. 12 in the state with the flex foil

14a-d

Variants of the invention for different contacting tasks;

Fig. 15

another flex foil contact arrangement.

Fig. 16

a sectional view through a conductor film connector according to the invention;

Fig. 17

a contact element with the connector in a perspective view;

Fig. 18

the contact element in section;

Fig. 19

a plan view of the connector without a lid;

Fig. 20

the arrangement with the lid on;

Fig. 21

the arrangement with a conductor film inserted on one side;

Fig. 22

the bottom of the conductor foil connector.

23a, b

the conductor foil connector on average

1 comprises a flex foil contact arrangement, generally designated 1 1 for contacting a conductor foil 2 Housing 3 with a contact element 4, which is a contact element a contact pin receiving chamber 5 (Fig. 3) and one cantilever arm 6 attached to it, which leads to the conductor foil 2 leads.

The conductor foil 2 consists of a base foil 2a made of polyimide, a metallization layer arranged above it to form conductor tracks 2b made of copper with a thickness of 0.15 mm and one insulating layer 2c lying above. Different from the illustrated conductor film 2 are also those with a polyamide base film and / or metallization layers between 0.15 and 0.4 mm in use and suitable here.

The housing 3 has a rear region 3a with partitions (not shown) on the individual contact elements separate from each other. For inserting contact pins into the Contact elements 4 are openings 7 in the rear area 3a (Fig. 2) provided in the housing 3. From the rear area 3a leads a base plate 3b forward, on which one contacting end region of the conductor foil 2 or can be kept strain relieving. The base plate 3b extends beyond the extension arms 6.

On the housing 3 is further on a swivel joint 8th a hinged on the cantilever arms 6 cover 9, the ends at the front edge of the base plate 3b. The side wall the lid 9 is towards the housing 3 with a locking arrangement 8a and has on the front edge Separation projections 9a, which pass between the conductor track ends, so as to effect mutual isolation. Near the swivel axis extension 8 extends transversely across the width of the lid a fixing threshold 9b, which is so the cantilever arms 6 rests in the direction of the Base plate pressed and thus mechanically against the conductor foil 2 are biased.

The contact element 4 is in one piece from a single, punched Sheet metal piece produced, the basic shape in Fig. 8th is shown. In the unfolded state (Fig. 3 and 4) Contact element 4 four side walls 5a, b, c, d on and is in front and at least essentially open at the back.

On the side facing downwards when installed in the bracket 3 5a of the contact element 4 is a protruding over the wall and in a corresponding recess in the base plate 3b protruding fixing spring tab 10 provided with this Anchor contact element 4 on the base plate 3b.

On the two in the installation in the bracket 3 parallel to the base plate arranged, opposite side walls 5b, 5d are provided inwardly curved spring elements 11, which are determined and spaced from each other, one to be inserted Connector pin with a pin cross section of 0.64mm X 0.64mm to contact. Obviously, there is an adjustment can also be realized with other pin cross-sectional sizes, in particular up to pin widths of at least 1.2mm. in the rear area of the contact element 4 is the metal of the Contact element plate bent inwards, around one on the spring elements Realize 10 leading funnels 12.

On the contact element 4 is on the opposite, during installation standing in the bracket 3 perpendicular to the base plate A pair of embossing protrusions 13a standing outwards are provided on the sides, which is dimensioned and designed for this purpose, the contact element 4 in the holder 3 in a suitable orientation and to keep. Next is a second pair of embossed protrusions facing inwards 13b provided, which is dimensioned and designed for this purpose is to insert a plug pin with a Center pin cross section of 0.64mm X 0.64mm.

The contact element 4 is now in the mounting in the holder on the base plate on the side with the extension arm 6 provided which is integral with the contact element 4 and extends from a wall. The boom arm 6 has an embossing 6a to make it mechanically stable and at the same time to make it resilient. At its end is a support area 6b provided for contacting the conductor foil track 2.

In a first variant of the invention, the contact element 4 as a soldering variant with a generally smooth contact area 6b provided, cf. 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8. The support area 6b has a sufficient area to match with that of the metallization layer 2b of the conductor foil 2 formed conductor tracks to be soldered.

Alternatively, the support area 6b can be roughened 6c are provided with a height of between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm are dimensioned through the insulating layer 2c to dig the conductor foil 2 and create one interlocking conductive transition in the metallization layer.

The flex film contact assembly is manufactured and used will follow:

First, it is determined whether for the specific contact a solder or spring version with roughening is required. Corresponding This choice is an exchange stamp in the embossing tool intended.

Then the sheet metal parts are punched, embossed and unfolded. The sheet metal parts that have been folded up into contact elements 4 become in appropriate holders 3 and there with the in the base plate recess projecting fixing spring tabs 10 fixed.

Then a flexible film can be aligned on the base plate 3 become. With the solder version, the required solder connections are now made manufactured; then the lid 9 is folded down.

In the spring version, only the lid 9 is folded down. The roughening 6c digs through the insulation on, hooks in the metallization layer 2b and sets so the contact.

Folding down the cover snaps it onto the locking arrangement 9a, fixes the conductor foil on the one hand Base plate 3b and presses further over the fixing threshold 9b the cantilever arms 6 firmly against the conductor foil. The contacting is now protected against vibrations in the automobile. It can then plug pins are inserted from behind, the through the funnel 10 onto the inwardly curved spring elements 11 be centered. This can e.g. by introducing separate Plug pins or by merging a pair of plugs and sockets each with the structure according to the invention.

While the fixing threshold 9b has been described as pressing directly on the cantilever arms, it is also possible to achieve a fixing by pressure on the upper side of the contact element.
A further exemplary embodiment is shown with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11, the same reference numerals being used wherever practical and possible.

According to FIG. 9, the contact element 4 comprises the present one Training on his cantilever arm 6 distally before with a bearing area provided by embossing 6b a tooth tip 14 which is laterally next to one with the Contact element 4 to be contacted in the conductor foil penetrates and passes through it.

The tooth tip 14 is punched out in one piece with the extension arm and formed by bending. The tooth tip 14 is there tapered at an acute angle to its lower end 15, so that there is a general sword shape in the conductor foil 2 penetrates.

The arrangement is used as follows:

First, the improved contact element as in the parent application described housed in a housing. at The support arm is not yet inserted in a conductor foil on the conductor foil and the tooth tip 14 is first do not penetrate the conductor foil yet.

Then the tip of the support arm is pressed down, whereby first the contact area of the support arm by digging in electrically into the metallization layer of the conductor foil contacted. The pressure then sticks with increasing pressure Insert the tooth tip into the conductor foil until it pierces it becomes. The conductor foil is therefore against lateral displacement and / or pulled out secured.

10 is a contact element extension below the cantilever arm 6 6d formed, also with a roughening is provided. The contact element extension 6d has one Width that the fixation tooth 14 next to this through the Conductor foil 1 penetrates, but the conductor foil is fully seated can.

In operation, the two-sided roughening makes a good one Pre-fixation and contacting of the conductor foil achieved, whereby the fixation tooth further supports the fixation. In particular the PCB foil is clamped.

It should be mentioned that training with contact element extension offers advantages even without a fixation tooth.

11 shows a contact element variant with which two Flex foils can be connected. The one-piece made of sheet metal manufactured transition element is the same for connection Flex films at least essentially symmetrical at both ends built up and has a roughened and / or with Cross rib provided contact element extension on each side on which a cantilever arm with a fixation tooth is arranged is. Top and bottom, that means cantilever arm side and contact element extension are connected by a resilient metal bridge. The delivery arm and contact element extension are on both sides resiliently movable against each other.

In operation, a corresponding transition piece can be in a housing be used, which is then from both sides of the Flex films is inserted. Then on both sides the cantilever arms are pressed against the contact element extensions, whereby they are characterized by the roughening or transverse ribs dig the flex film and then the fixation teeth the flex films pierce so that there is a fixation.

This is a flex foil contact arrangement in particular for automotive applications with a contact element that has a first contact end and a flexible film contact area, it is provided that the flex foil contact area by means of a cantilever arm connected in one piece to the contact area is formed, the one spaced from the contact area Support area for contacting the conductor foil comprises, wherein it is further provided that in the support area on the cantilever arm at least one tooth tip to pierce is provided in the flex film and being more advantageous Way, but not mandatory, that the cantilever arm opposite a contact element extension formed is.

The fixation tooth formation and the like can as in the Embodiment can be formed with contact pin receiving chamber.

It should be noted that in the peculiarity of the flex film clip one on its own or together with other exemplary embodiments invention worthy of protection is seen.

In the present case, the design of the extension arm with only one Lateral tooth tip has been described as an alternative it should also be provided that several tooth tips are provided, in particular a pair of tooth tips, of which the first tooth tip on the left and the second on the right of the contact area 6b is provided.

In a particularly preferred variant, in which one Large number of contact elements housed in a single housing are also provided that not at everyone Contact element teeth are provided.

Another preferred embodiment of the invention is referenced 12 to 14 described:

According to FIG. 12, one generally designated 31 has one piece flex film contact assembly made by punching and bending operations for automotive applications or the like on your Flexfoil contact end on a support area on the a flexible film, which is to be contacted electrically, is on can, as well as an opposite tooth that can be inserted is formed in the flex film (Fig. 13). There is a on the tooth Form-locking means to be described in more detail later, for a positive engagement of the through the flex film to provide a compact tooth in the contact area. The Formation of the area facing away from the end of the flexible film contact 37 depends on what type of conductor an electrical Connection should be made and is therefore in Fig. 12 not detailed. Individual examples of this are but can be seen explicitly in FIG. 14.

The flexible film contact end 32 is on a resilient cantilever arm 32a formed on the flexible film contact area 34a curved towards and into a contact area arc 32b Proximity with an embossed cross rib structure of about 0.1mm height is provided for penetration through the flex foil insulation is sufficiently sharp. Distal from the contact area arch The extension arm 32a is widened 32b, whereby he general in the area of its widening 32c has rectangular recess 32d.

The support area 33 for the flex film is on the side of the resilient cantilever arm 32a formed by the contact area arc 2b and the widening 32c.

The tooth 35 is also on a resilient cantilever arm 38a formed, which in turn on the flex foil contact area 34a curved towards a contact area arc 38b and nearby of the flexible film contact area 34a 'with an embossed transverse rib structure of about 0.1mm height is provided for penetration is formed by the flexible film insulation. distally The tooth 35 is provided from the contact area arch 38b. The Tooth is now provided with a notch 35a and in this way designed that with cantilever arms pressed against each other 32a, 38a the notch 35a in the recess 32d penetrates. The notch 35a is shaped so that there is a Locking in the recess 32d results.

The arrangement is used as follows:

First, a flex film is placed between the two extension arms 32a, 38a arranged that a conductor track in the area of the roughening owns, but close to tooth 35 or the widening 32c and the generally rectangular recess 32d without a conductor track is. Then the boom arms 32a, 38a are on top of each other too moved. Here, the cross ribs dig on the Contact area arches 32b, 38b through those over the conductor tracks provided insulation and thus provide the electrical Transition between the metallic flex foil contact arrangement and the flex film.

Now the tooth 35 bumps when the cantilever arms are pressed further together through the conductor-free area of the flex film 34 and penetrates into the recess 32d, whereupon it engages the notch 35a in the recess 32d comes to a positive engagement. Act through the form-fitting Engaging forces that the cantilever arms against each other and press against the flex foil and so for very good electrical Make contact.

It is not mandatory for tooth 35 and its notch a recess is provided; where appropriate can be snapped into place on the edge of the cantilever arm.

14 shows the design of a contact arrangement according to the invention for a variety of different applications.

The arrangement of Fig. 14a serves two flex foils together connect to. The preferred variant is shown, in which the inventive training for both flex films is provided. Such a connection is particularly advantageous because e.g. attaching pieces of flexible film to each other allowed for repair purposes and / or use shorter pieces in the OEM area.

The arrangement of Fig. 14b is used to a flex film with a Wire or wire to connect. For this purpose the side provided for the flex foil contacting according to the invention trained while on the other hand conventional Crimping tongues are provided for crimping a strand.

The arrangement of Fig. 14c is used to a flex film with a To connect contact element of the system 0.64.

The arrangement of Fig. 14d is used to a flex film with a to connect predetermined contact plug and so one Create transition to another system.

Fig. 15 shows a flex film contact arrangement in which none latching tooth is provided, but a the flex film penetrating tooth, which after penetrating the film penetrates a recess in the support area and then bent becomes. With a corresponding configuration of the shown Flexible film contact arrangement receiving housing through Closing a housing cover acting on the tooth or suitable for automated assembly in automatic assembly machines Shaped crimp or transfer tools happen. Here the positive connection results from the contact of the bent Tooth end on the opposite spring arm near the contact area.

It can, moreover, in a variant in which a variety of contact elements housed in a single housing are also provided that not on each contact element Teeth are provided.

Another variant is described in FIGS. 16ff

16 includes a flex foil contact assembly, generally designated 41 41 a contact element 42 for connection two conductor track foils 43 in a housing 44.

The contact element 42 is bent in one piece from a metal sheet and comprises two extending parallel to each other Contact tops and bottoms 42a, 42b, which over a center arranged bridge 42c are resiliently connected to each other and the two each extending in opposite directions Define arm pairs 42a ', 42a' 'or 42b', 42b ''. The upper pair of arms 42a ', 42a' 'is laterally with a fixation tooth 42d provided, which is approximately at right angles from the cantilever arm 42a ', 42a' 'is bent with its tip in the shape of a sword points below and is no more than half the height the bridge 42 extends. The fixation tooth 42d is on an area that bulges downward toward the underside 42b 42e ', 42e' '. The surface facing the bottom 42b of the bulge area 42e is not roughened shown in the form of cross ribs or diamonds are embossed, which are designed so that they under pressure due to the existing foil insulation work. A support surface 42g is distal in front of the arch provided for a press cam.

On the bottom is opposite to the bottom domed area an area arched towards the top 42f is provided so that between these areas 42e, 42f the area of closest approximation of the respective distal Cantilever arms are provided, as can be seen in particular in FIG. 16.

The conductor foil 43 comprises a carrier foil 43a with a metallization and an overlying insulation 43b.

The housing 44 consists of a lower part 44a, in which Lugs 44a ', 44a' 'are provided around a cover 44b (see Fig. 5) hook on corresponding locking eyelets 44b ', 44b' ' to be able to. The lid is attached to film hinge joints 44b '' 'movable folding elements 44b' '' ', which in turn Strain relief and retaining sheets 4c include are arranged by respectively punching out the 43c Penetrating foil 43. The lid also carries one Press cam 44e inside, which when closed Hinged lid over a support surface 42g of the cantilever arm still lies distally in front of the arch 42e.

There are a plurality of contact elements 42 in a base element 44a arranged and by corresponding partitions 44a '' ', 44a' '' 'mechanically and electrically isolated from each other and fixed in position.

The invention is assembled and applied as follows:

First, suitable quantities for the contact elements 42 flat base plates punched out of metal and in the in the Fig. shown shape bent. Then the finished ones are bent Contact elements in the intended positions in the base part 44a of the housing 44 is used.

Now the cover 44b with its locking openings 44b 'over the Lugs 44a 'pressed on the base part 44a.

The conductor foils are prepared, i.e. on a corresponding one Cut off length and with the punched out for the Retention sheets 44c prepared. Now the swiveling area, i.e. the hinged lid around the film hinge 44b '' 'wide pivoted upwards, so that the retaining leaves extend far located above and the insertion area is completely free. Then the first conductor track film in the pincer-like opening of the inserted first contact element area. Then can around the hinge 44b 'downward rotation of the hinged lid respectively. The press cam 44e thus comes into contact with the Supporting surface.

The tip of the support arm 42a is pressed down and the fixation tooth 42d penetrates into the conductor foil and finally pierces this. The increasing pressure then leads that the roughened areas of the bulge 42a through dig the insulation of the conductor foil and finally dig it to contact. The conductor foil is against a lateral one Moving and / or pulling out secured by the fixation tooth. At the same time, the retention sheets now also cause one Strain relief for the flex film. Now the second track foil in the same way at the diametrically opposite end be inserted.

It should be noted that in the bottom area of the housing or other suitable place openings can be provided, to introduce electrical and / or mechanical Allow testing tools to control the transition. This is through the holes 5 in the bottom of the housing shown in the figure shown. The test holes are also for other housings sensibly applicable.

In operation, the two-sided roughening makes a good one Pre-fixation and contacting of the conductor foil achieved, whereby the fixation tooth further supports the fixation. In particular the PCB foil is clamped. The Contact pressure reducing contact resistance by the press cam 44e and the thermal insulation from the housing to the Contact point with contact resistance through the bulges allows the flow of larger currents with too little warming.

About the metallic contact elements and the very good electrical Contact between the contact element and the conductor foil both sides have a very low contact resistance between the conductor foils and high Currents can be transported with little warming.

It should be mentioned that training with contact element extension offers advantages even without a fixation tooth.

It should also be mentioned that the design of the cover with conductor foil punchings penetrating retention sheets Use of very wide foils allowed without excessive Forces have to act on the cover, but also the conductor foil only strain relief deflectable is.

Claims (13)

Flex film contact arrangement for automotive applications or the like. With at least one contact element which has at least one flex film contact area, characterized in that the flex film contact area is formed on an integrally connected cantilever arm which comprises a support area spaced apart from the chamber for contacting the conductive foil track. Flex foil contact arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a holder for the and / or a plurality of contact elements is provided, which in particular has / have openings for the rearward insertion of contact pins or the like in the contact element (s). Flex foil contact arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the holder has a conductor track fixing area, in particular in the form of a cover that can be folded over and / or the cantilever arm (s), in particular this presses onto the conductor foil, which is designed in particular to fix the conductor track to the support area. Flex foil contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact area is provided with a contact pin receiving chamber, which has four walls and in particular a generally square cross section,
contact pin centering springs being arranged in particular on at least two opposite walls of the contact pin receiving chamber and / or the contact pin receiving chamber has a rear insertion funnel formed by driving in a tab. Flex foil contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cantilever arm is resilient and / or is curved and / or has a contact surface designed for firm connection to the conductor track, which are designed in particular for soldering and / or welding onto the conductor track and / or is roughened for penetrating a conductor track insulation and / or digging into the conductor track, in particular with a roughening of at least 0.1 mm in height. Flex foil contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tooth tip is provided in the support area on the cantilever arm for piercing into and / or piercing the flex film, wherein the tooth tip is in particular in one piece with the extension arm and / or is formed for penetrating into a conductor-free flexible film area and / or in particular immediately to the side next to the support area and / or the tooth tip, in particular generally parallel to the cantilever arm, has a greater width than generally transverse to it and / or the fixation tooth is arranged laterally next to a contact element extension which lies opposite the extension arm in order to fix the flex film from both sides. Flex foil contact arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the support area and the tooth are provided on a respective extension arm, which has a curvature towards the flexible film, the tooth tip in particular being provided distally from the support area. Flex foil contact arrangement according to one of claims 6 or 7, characterized in that the tooth is designed with a form-locking means in order to provide a form-fitting engagement of the tooth which has penetrated through the flexible film in the contact area
wherein in particular the tooth tip is formed immediately to the side of the area of the electrical contact and / or a recess is provided in the support area through which the tooth can bump and / or a notch is provided in the support area, which can be locked on the support area. Flex foil contact arrangement according to claim 8, characterized in that the tooth and the opposite area, on which the positive engagement with the tooth takes place, are arranged to be resilient to one another, in particular in such a way, that the flexible film is fixed in the case of positive engagement, in particular is fixed without pressure. Flex foil contact arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that cantilever arms are provided on opposite ends of the contact element and are designed to rest on a respective flexible film,
wherein in particular the conductor track film (s) is / are held between two contact element arms which are movable relative to one another and / or wherein Cantilever arms are provided in such a way that two interconnect foils to be connected to one another are fixed at diametrically spaced ends, in particular the contact area extends distally from a central middle part, via which the upper and the lower pliers element are connected to one another, and / or in the and / or each support area on the cantilever arm, at least one tooth tip is provided for insertion into the flexible film, in particular one Strain relief at least one and preferably both of the flexible foils to be connected is provided, which is provided in particular with a cover which is movable, in particular hinged in a film hinge, in particular for strain relief on the contact elements. Flex foil contact arrangement according to one of the preceding Claims, with a housing which is close to the or one Has contact elements of the flexible foil contact test fields, through which a test arrangement can be introduced, in particular for determining electrical measured values of the completed contact and / or to determine the mechanical Behavior after or in connection with the Flex foil. Flex film contact arrangement for automotive applications or the like. With a housing and at least one flex film contact area provided therein for a contact element, characterized in that a relief arrangement is provided between the housing entry and the flex film contact area. Flex foil contact arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the relief arrangement is designed for frictional restraint, which, in particular, has a cam, around which a loop arch causing frictional restraint is formed, preferably the cam hangs from a housing cover or a housing cover part and is further preferred the housing cover can be folded down, in particular is pivotally attached to a film hinge, preference being given to the cam extends from the housing cover at least to the housing base and in particular passes through a recess in this and / or a relief arrangement is designed for positive restraint, preference being given Retaining sheets are provided which are designed and preferred for passage through corresponding openings in the conductor track film the retaining leaves are provided on the housing cover or a housing cover part, which is preferably attached in a foldable manner, in particular to a film hinge.

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