EP2692025B1 - Modular electrical plug connector assembly - Google Patents

Modular electrical plug connector assembly Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2692025B1
EP2692025B1 EP12707071.2A EP12707071A EP2692025B1 EP 2692025 B1 EP2692025 B1 EP 2692025B1 EP 12707071 A EP12707071 A EP 12707071A EP 2692025 B1 EP2692025 B1 EP 2692025B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
plug
module
contact element
housing
connector
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP12707071.2A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2692025A1 (en
Inventor
Rainer Kaesser
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Robert Bosch GmbH
Original Assignee
Robert Bosch GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Robert Bosch GmbH filed Critical Robert Bosch GmbH
Publication of EP2692025A1 publication Critical patent/EP2692025A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2692025B1 publication Critical patent/EP2692025B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R33/00—Coupling devices specially adapted for supporting apparatus and having one part acting as a holder providing support and electrical connection via a counterpart which is structurally associated with the apparatus, e.g. lamp holders; Separate parts thereof
    • H01R33/90—Coupling devices specially adapted for supporting apparatus and having one part acting as a holder providing support and electrical connection via a counterpart which is structurally associated with the apparatus, e.g. lamp holders; Separate parts thereof adapted for co-operation with two or more dissimilar counterparts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
    • H01R13/502—Bases; Cases composed of different pieces
    • H01R13/504—Bases; Cases composed of different pieces different pieces being moulded, cemented, welded, e.g. ultrasonic, or swaged together
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
    • H01R13/514—Bases; Cases composed as a modular blocks or assembly, i.e. composed of co-operating parts provided with contact members or holding contact members between them
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R27/00—Coupling parts adapted for co-operation with two or more dissimilar counterparts
    • H01R27/02—Coupling parts adapted for co-operation with two or more dissimilar counterparts for simultaneous co-operation with two or more dissimilar counterparts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R43/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors
    • H01R43/26—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors for engaging or disengaging the two parts of a coupling device
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R2201/00—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications
    • H01R2201/26—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications for vehicles
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49002—Electrical device making
    • Y10T29/49117—Conductor or circuit manufacturing
    • Y10T29/49204—Contact or terminal manufacturing
    • Y10T29/49208—Contact or terminal manufacturing by assembling plural parts
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49002—Electrical device making
    • Y10T29/49117—Conductor or circuit manufacturing
    • Y10T29/49204—Contact or terminal manufacturing
    • Y10T29/49208—Contact or terminal manufacturing by assembling plural parts
    • Y10T29/4921—Contact or terminal manufacturing by assembling plural parts with bonding
    • Y10T29/49211—Contact or terminal manufacturing by assembling plural parts with bonding of fused material
    • Y10T29/49213—Metal

Definitions

  • control units A variety of functions in today's motor vehicles is regulated or controlled by control units. For example, the ignition, the fuel injection times, but also the electric windows or the electric sunroof are controlled or regulated by such control units. Concentration on a few control devices, with which a multitude of functions are controlled, can currently be observed in motor vehicle construction. This concentration on a few control units is accompanied by a higher number of electrical contacts, which on the one hand control or regulate more actuators and on the other hand also capture more parameters from sensors. In addition, more and more sensors are being installed, which in turn require additional electrical contacts on the control units. If the control units were manufactured with considerably less than 100 contacts in the 90s, today control units with a little less than 200 contacts are common. Efforts are currently underway to equip control units with approximately 300 contacts.
  • a number of contacts are already combined to form a plug-in module with a plug housing, a control unit comprising a plurality of plug-in modules. Accordingly, in order to detect the parameters provided by the sensors and / or to control the actuators, a plurality of electrical plug-in connectors which are compatible with the plug-in modules or the plug housings and are connected to a cable harness are also required.
  • the plug-in modules connecting the control unit with the sensors and actuators and integrated in the control unit are formed in a connector arrangement, the plug-in connection arrangement comprising the plug-in modules being produced in one piece, so to speak, monolithically in the plastic injection molding process.
  • the electrically conductive contacts which connect the printed circuits present in the control unit to the plug connectors of the cable harnesses are designed as pin contacts made of metal.
  • the pin contacts are inserted into the injection mold and coated with plastic during the injection process.
  • the pin contact protrudes about 8 mm from the surrounding plastic in the direction of the connector.
  • the opposite side of the pin contact is usually angled for reasons of space and contacted electrically conductive directly with the printed circuit.
  • each connector assembly is manufactured depending on the layout of the printed circuits included in the control device.
  • the automotive manufacturers have strict requirements for the connector assembly of the control unit manufacturers.
  • the individual contacts combined to form a plug-in module and extending in the direction of the plug connector must have a position tolerance of 0.4 mm at their contact tips.
  • the control unit manufacturers who want the contact tips of the contact elements facing the printed circuits to be positioned so precisely that the tips easily find their way into the receptacles provided for them on the printed circuits.
  • a modular electrical connector arrangement for control devices in a motor vehicle is provided with a module carrier and at least one first and a second plug-in module, the first and the second plug-in module being arranged next to one another and / or one behind the other in the module carrier.
  • the first plug-in module has a first plug housing, the first plug housing being shaped to receive a first electrical plug connector.
  • the second plug-in module has a second plug housing, the second plug housing being shaped to receive a second electrical plug connector.
  • the first connector housing has an electrically conductive first contact element and the second connector housing has an electrically conductive second contact element.
  • the first plug-in module and the second plug-in module are positioned relative to one another in the module carrier.
  • the first and second plug-in modules are each permanently connected to the module carrier by a joining process.
  • the first or second connector is complementary to the first or second connector housing and connected with a cable, the connector having an electrically conductive contact.
  • a region of the contact element which is provided for contacting with the contact of the connector, is complementary to the contact of the connector.
  • the contact elements are placed in a plastic injection mold and are permanently connected to the connector housing during the injection process.
  • the contact elements can be shot into the manufactured connector housing, for example.
  • the individual plug-in modules do not necessarily have to be arranged in one plane, they can also be at a predetermined angle to one another.
  • the module carrier of the modular electrical connector arrangement is delimited by a front side and a rear side opposite the front side, the module carrier for the first plug-in module extending a first between the front side and the rear side in the direction from the front side to the rear side Breakthrough and for the second plug-in module has a second opening extending between the front and the rear in the direction from the front to the rear.
  • the first opening is designed in such a way that the first plug-in module which can be inserted into the first opening can be displaced transversely to a first insertion direction and can be rotated about a first axis extending parallel to the first insertion direction.
  • the second opening is designed such that the second plug-in module which can be inserted into the second opening can be displaced transversely to the second plug-in direction and can be rotated about a second axis which extends parallel in the second plug-in direction.
  • the plug-in module can be inserted into the module carrier from the front to the rear of the module carrier or from the rear to the front of the module carrier.
  • each plug-in module can also be positioned in its height, ie in or against the insertion direction of the respective plug-in module.
  • the contact elements of the second plug-in module can be positioned exactly with respect to the contact elements of the first plug-in module by means of the two or three translational and one rotational degree of freedom.
  • the first plug housing of the modular electrical plug connector arrangement has first projections, the first projections being designed such that the first plug-in module cannot be inserted through the first opening.
  • the second connector housing has second projections, the second projections being designed such that the second plug-in module cannot be inserted through the second opening.
  • the plug-in modules can thus be inserted into their respective openings until the projections belonging to the respective housing bear against the front or the rear of the module carrier.
  • the front or back of the module carrier in conjunction with the projections thus determine the level in which the individual plug-in modules are positioned.
  • the first projections are connected to form a first flange, the first flange being designed in such a way that the first opening is covered by the first flange.
  • the second projections are connected to form a second flange, the second flange being designed in such a way that the second opening is covered by the second flange.
  • the flange can simultaneously serve as an adhesive surface for connecting the plug-in module to the module carrier by means of a suitable adhesive.
  • the flange can also be permanently connected to the module carrier in the welding process. Make both the adhesive connection and the weld connection sure that the plug-in module is dust-proof, splash-proof, possibly also watertight and vibration-proof.
  • a seal is inserted between the first and / or the second flange and the module carrier.
  • the first plug-in module has first locking elements arranged on the first plug housing and permanently connected to the first plug housing for locking the first plug connector.
  • the second plug-in module has second locking elements arranged on the second plug housing and non-releasably connected to the second plug housing for locking the second plug connector.
  • the plug connectors are locked in this position with the respective plug housing after being plugged into the plug-in module.
  • the lock is releasable.
  • the lock ensures that the connector can be connected to the plug-in module in a vibration-proof manner.
  • it may be possible to dispense with locking if the holding forces of the complementary contact elements of the plug-in module and the contacts of the connector are strong enough so that the connector cannot be released from the plug-in module by vibrations.
  • the first contact element and the second contact element each have a first partial element.
  • the first sub-element of the first contact element extends beyond the first connector housing.
  • the first sub-element of the second contact element extends beyond the second connector housing.
  • the first partial element of the first contact element and the first partial element of the second contact element are positioned relative to one another.
  • the first sub-element can extend both in the direction of insertion of the respective plug-in module into the module carrier and counter to the direction of insertion.
  • the first sub-element can also extend transversely to the direction of insertion extend.
  • the first sub-element of the first contact element and the first sub-element of the second contact element do not necessarily have to extend in the same direction.
  • the contact elements arranged within a plug-in module are generally precisely positioned relative to one another by the manufacturing process of the individual plug-in module.
  • the first sub-elements will extend counter to the insertion direction of the plug-in modules, the first sub-elements being set up to be connected in an electrically conductive manner to a printed circuit of the control device.
  • the individual plug-in modules are also positioned relative to one another by means of a positioning related to the first partial elements. Due to the exact positioning of the first sub-elements of all plug-in modules relative to one another, it is possible for an electrically conductive connection of the contact elements to the at least one printed circuit of the control device to be possible without any problems even in the case of fully automatic production.
  • the exact positioning can be created, for example, in that the areas of all sub-elements of the individual plug-in modules which are accommodated by the at least one printed circuit of the control device have a position tolerance of 0.4 mm to one another. These areas can be accommodated, for example, through openings such as bores in the at least one printed circuit, these areas being connected to the printed circuit in an electrically conductive manner, for example by soldering, after insertion into the openings.
  • the first contact element of the modular electrical plug connection and the second contact element each have a second partial element, the second partial element being arranged at an angle to the first partial element, the first partial element and the second partial element being connected to one another in an electrically conductive manner .
  • the second sub-elements are connected directly to the printed circuits.
  • the connection can be a solder connection.
  • the second sub-elements can also be pressed into the printed circuit.
  • plug connectors arranged on the printed circuits. Since, for reasons of space, the plug-in modules are generally arranged such that the plug-in direction parallel to the direction of extension of the circuit board equipped with electrical components, the second sub-elements generally form a 90 ° angle to the first sub-elements, but can also form any other angle.
  • the first and / or second sub-elements can also have different lengths within a plug-in module.
  • At least one contact element from the group of the first contact element and the second contact element is designed as an electrically conductive pin.
  • Electrically conductive contacts in the form of pins are particularly inexpensive to manufacture.
  • the contacts can be made in one piece.
  • Such pins can have, for example, a circular, square or else rectangular cross section.
  • the cross-sectional area can result from the electrical currents to be transmitted.
  • the cross-sectional areas for actuating actuators, such as the ignition are larger than the cross-sectional areas for sensing sensors.
  • the first plug-in module is different from the second plug-in module.
  • the number of contact elements within the first plug-in module differs from the number of contact elements in the second plug-in module.
  • the plug housings of the respective plug modules can also be designed differently.
  • a control device for a motor vehicle is equipped with a modular electrical connector arrangement.
  • the advantages of the invention can be summarized as follows:
  • the modular structure of the electrical connector arrangement by means of a module carrier and plug-in modules results in the possibility of one cost-effective and space-saving integration of the plug-in modules.
  • the plug-in modules can be designed individually.
  • the plug-in modules can be arranged individually.
  • the warpage and shrinkage problems mentioned at the outset which result from the use of plastic with regard to shape and loading tolerances, have largely no influence, so that tool correction costs with regard to the plug-in module position tolerances are reduced or completely eliminated.
  • a layout of the contact elements which ensure the transmission of the signals from the inside of the control unit or the printed circuits to the outside to the plug connectors and the cables connected to them, offer new freedom in design.
  • the injection molding tools can be constructed more simply and therefore more cost-effectively. Because the plug-in modules are manufactured individually, they can be manufactured with greater accuracy and allow the plug-in forces for the plug-in connectors to be within narrow limits. Furthermore, the modular structure allows greater freedom in the design of the connectors connected with a cable.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a modular electrical connector assembly 2, consisting of a module carrier 4 and a first 6, a second 8 and a third plug-in module 10.
  • the first 6, the second 8 and the third plug-in module 10 are arranged either one behind the other or next to one another.
  • a first plug housing 12 is formed on the first plug-in module 6, a second plug housing 14 on the second plug-in module 8 and a third plug housing 16 on the third plug-in module 10. All connector housings 12, 14, 16 are shaped to accommodate one electrical connector, not shown here, in a plug direction S marked with an arrow.
  • a first contact element 18 is arranged in the first plug-in module 6, a second contact element 20 in the second plug-in module 8 and a third contact element 22 in the third plug-in module 10.
  • the contact elements 18, 20, 22 are electrically conductive. All contact elements 18, 20, 22 extend in the plug direction S beyond the respective plug housings 12, 14, 16.
  • the plug-in modules 6, 8, 10 are arranged in the module carrier 4 in such a way that the respective plug housings 12, 14, 16 extend from a front side 24 of the module carrier 4 against the plug-in direction S.
  • a rear side 26 opposite the front side 24 of the module carrier 4 faces an interior of a control unit, not shown here.
  • all contact elements 18, 20, 22 are designed as one-piece pin contacts.
  • the portion which extends beyond the connector housing 12, 14, 16 in the plug-in direction S is divided into a first sub-element 50 and a second sub-element 52.
  • the first sub-element 50 extends in the plug-in direction S.
  • the second sub-element 52 is the first Sub-element angled, the first sub-element 50 and the second sub-element 52 enclosing an angle ⁇ . In the present embodiment, the angle ⁇ is 90 °.
  • the first 50 and second sub-elements 52 can also have different lengths within a plug-in module 6, 8, 10.
  • the at least one second sub-element 52 is for Provided in and / or on a printed circuit, not shown here.
  • the at least one second sub-element 52 is shaped in such a way that it is inserted into holes in a printed circuit board and soldered there.
  • the second sub-elements 52 are aligned parallel to one another and all extend in the same direction.
  • the second sub-elements 52 are positioned relative to one another in such a way that the position tolerance at all ends intended for soldering to the circuit board is 0.4 mm.
  • the position tolerance of the second sub-elements 52 to the rear 26 of the module carrier 4 can also be 0.4 mm.
  • the first connector housing 12 delimits a first interior 13, the second connector housing 14 a second interior 15 and the third connector housing 16 a third interior 17.
  • Third sub-elements 54 which are designed as pins, project into the interiors 13, 15, 17, approximately 8 mm into the connector housing 12, 14, 16 as in Figure 2 can be seen on the first plug-in module 6.
  • First 46 and second locking elements 48 are formed on the narrow sides of the plug modules 6, 8, 10.
  • the locking elements 46, 48 lock in the connector housings 12, 14, 16 inserted connectors and not shown here. To remove the connectors from the connector housings 12, 14, 16, the locking elements 46, 48 can be released, the release mechanism usually being formed on the connectors.
  • the locking elements 46, 48 prevent the plug connectors from being able to come loose independently, for example due to vibrations from the plug-in modules 6, 8, 10.
  • the plug-in modules 6, 8, 10 are permanently connected to the module carrier 4.
  • Figure 2 shows a cross section through the module carrier 4 with the first plug-in module 6 and the second plug-in module 8.
  • a first 28, second 30 and third opening 32 are formed in the module carrier 4.
  • the first opening 28 is designed to accommodate a first connector module 6, the second opening 30 to accommodate a second connector module 8 and the third opening 32 to accommodate a third connector module 10, not shown here.
  • the openings 28, 30, 32 extend between the front side 24 and the rear side 26 of the module carrier 4 in the direction from the front side 24 to the rear side 26. It is clearly recognizable that the first plug-in module 6 of the second plug-in module 8 is different.
  • the first 6 and the second plug-in module 8 are inserted from the rear 26 of the module carrier 4 along an insertion direction E to the front 24 of the module carrier 4.
  • the direction of insertion E extends parallel to the openings 28, 30, 32.
  • the direction of insertion E of the plug-in modules 6, 8 is opposite to the direction of insertion S of the plug connectors not shown here. It is clearly visible that the openings 28, 30 are larger than the associated plug-in modules 6, 8.
  • the plug-in modules 6, 8 can be moved transversely to the insertion direction E for precise positioning.
  • a first axis 34 extends parallel to the insertion direction E, about which the first plug-in module 6 can be rotated at a predetermined angle.
  • a second axis 36 is also be rotated at a predetermined angle.
  • the rotatability of the plug-in modules 6, 8 is indicated by curved double arrows 56.
  • the first plug housing 12 has a first circumferential flange 38 and the second plug housing 14 has a second circumferential flange 40.
  • the two flanges 38, 40 are designed like disks.
  • the two flanges 38, 40 are designed such that they cover the openings 28, 30 in the openings 28, 30, regardless of the position assumed by the plug-in modules 6, 8.
  • the plug-in modules 6, 8 are positioned in that the first sub-elements 50 projecting beyond the plug housings 12, 14 are set up at a predetermined distance from one another. In this state, the individual, individually produced plug-in modules 6, 8 are permanently connected to the one-piece module carrier 4 by means of a joining process.
  • the second plug-in module 8 was welded to the module carrier 4, the weld seam being represented by a weld bead 42.
  • the circumferential weld seam ensures that the plug-in modules 6, 8 are connected to the module carrier 4 in such a way that neither dust nor splash water migrate between the plug-in modules 6, 8 and the openings 28, 30 from the front 24 to the rear 26 and thus possibly in can penetrate inside the device.
  • Figure 3 shows a cross section of the module carrier 4 with a first plug-in module 6.
  • a seal 44 covering the first opening 28 is arranged between the first flange 38 and the rear side 26 of the module carrier 4.
  • Figure 4 shows the back 26 of the module carrier 4 with the plug-in modules 6, 8, 10 in supervision.
  • the rear side 26 faces the printed circuit, which is not shown here.
  • the contact elements 18, 20, 22 of the respective plug-in modules 6, 8 10 are of different thicknesses. This also continues in a cross-sectional area of the individual contact elements 18, 20, 22, so that a cross-sectional area of the second contact element 20 is larger than a cross-sectional area of, for example, the first contact element 18.
  • the second contact element 20 is thus able to transmit larger currents than the first contact element 18.
  • Contact elements 20 with larger cross-sectional areas are generally used to control or regulate actuators such as the ignition or the fuel injection.
  • Parameters detected by sensors are generally transmitted by means of the contact elements 18, 22 with a smaller cross section.
  • the second sub-elements 52 all end at one level. All contact elements 18, 20, 22 of the respective plug-in modules 6, 8, 10 are electrically conductively connected to the printed circuit. The electrical conductivity in the example shown here is ensured by a soldering process.
  • the second sub-elements are inserted into bores which are located in a printed circuit board.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Connector Housings Or Holding Contact Members (AREA)
  • Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)

Description

Hintergrund der ErfindungBackground of the Invention

Eine Vielzahl von Funktionen in heutigen Kraftfahrzeugen wird durch Steuergeräte geregelt oder gesteuert. Beispielsweise die Zündung, die Treibstoffeinspritzzeiten, aber auch die elektrischen Fensterheber oder das elektrische Schiebedach werden durch derartige Steuergeräte gesteuert oder geregelt. Derzeit ist im Kraftfahrzeugbau eine Konzentrierung auf einige wenige Steuergeräte zu beobachten, mit denen eine Vielzahl von Funktionen gesteuert wird. Mit dieser Konzentrierung auf wenige Steuergeräte geht eine höhere Anzahl von elektrischen Kontakten einher, mit denen zum einen mehr Aktoren gesteuert oder geregelt und zum anderen auch mehr Parameter von Sensoren erfasst werden. Hinzu kommt, dass immer mehr Sensoren verbaut werden, die wiederum weitere elektrische Kontakte an den Steuergeräten benötigen. Wurden in den 90er Jahren die Steuergeräte mit erheblich unter 100 Kontakten gefertigt, so sind heute Steuergeräte mit wenig unter 200 Kontakten üblich. Derzeit sind Bestrebungen im Gange, Steuergeräte mit ca. 300 Kontakten auszustatten.A variety of functions in today's motor vehicles is regulated or controlled by control units. For example, the ignition, the fuel injection times, but also the electric windows or the electric sunroof are controlled or regulated by such control units. Concentration on a few control devices, with which a multitude of functions are controlled, can currently be observed in motor vehicle construction. This concentration on a few control units is accompanied by a higher number of electrical contacts, which on the one hand control or regulate more actuators and on the other hand also capture more parameters from sensors. In addition, more and more sensors are being installed, which in turn require additional electrical contacts on the control units. If the control units were manufactured with considerably less than 100 contacts in the 90s, today control units with a little less than 200 contacts are common. Efforts are currently underway to equip control units with approximately 300 contacts.

Bereits heute ist eine Mehrzahl von Kontakten zu einem Steckmodul mit einem Steckergehäuse zusammengefasst, wobei ein Steuergerät mehrere Steckmodule umfasst. Dementsprechend werden zum Erfassen der durch die Sensoren bereitgestellten Parameter und/oder zum Ansteuern der Aktoren ebenfalls mehrere zu den Steckmodulen, respektive den Steckergehäusen kompatible, mit einem Kabelbaum verbundene elektrische Steckverbinder benötigt.A number of contacts are already combined to form a plug-in module with a plug housing, a control unit comprising a plurality of plug-in modules. Accordingly, in order to detect the parameters provided by the sensors and / or to control the actuators, a plurality of electrical plug-in connectors which are compatible with the plug-in modules or the plug housings and are connected to a cable harness are also required.

Hierbei werden die das Steuergerät mit den Sensoren und Aktoren verbindende und im Steuergerät integrierten Steckmodule in einer Steckverbinderanordnung ausgebildet, wobei die die Steckmodule umfassende Steckverbinderanordnung einteilig, sozusagen monolithisch im Kunststoffspritzgussverfahren hergestellt ist.Here, the plug-in modules connecting the control unit with the sensors and actuators and integrated in the control unit are formed in a connector arrangement, the plug-in connection arrangement comprising the plug-in modules being produced in one piece, so to speak, monolithically in the plastic injection molding process.

Die elektrisch leitfähigen Kontakte, welche die in dem Steuergerät vorhandenen gedruckten Schaltungen mit den Steckverbindern der Kabelbäume verbinden, sind als aus Metall gefertigte Stiftkontakte ausgebildet. Zur Herstellung der fertigen Steckverbinderanordnung werden die Stiftkontakte in die Spritzgussform eingelegt und während des Spritzvorganges von Kunststoff ummantelt. Der Stiftkontakt steht in Richtung des Steckverbinders etwa 8 mm aus dem ihn umgebenden Kunststoff hervor. Die gegenüberliegende Seite des Stiftkontakts wird in der Regel aus Platzgründen abgewinkelt und direkt mit der gedruckten Schaltung elektrisch leitfähig kontaktiert. Somit wird jede Steckverbinderanordnung in Abhängigkeit des Layouts der von dem Steuergeräte umfassten gedruckten Schaltungen gefertigt.The electrically conductive contacts which connect the printed circuits present in the control unit to the plug connectors of the cable harnesses are designed as pin contacts made of metal. To produce the finished connector assembly, the pin contacts are inserted into the injection mold and coated with plastic during the injection process. The pin contact protrudes about 8 mm from the surrounding plastic in the direction of the connector. The opposite side of the pin contact is usually angled for reasons of space and contacted electrically conductive directly with the printed circuit. Thus, each connector assembly is manufactured depending on the layout of the printed circuits included in the control device.

Seitens der Automobilhersteller herrschen an die Steckverbinderanordnung der Steuergerätehersteller strenge Anforderungen. So müssen die zu einem Steckmodul zusammengefassten sich in Richtung des Steckverbinders erstreckenden Einzelkontakte an ihren Kontaktspitzen eine Positionstoleranz von 0,4 mm aufweisen. Auf der anderen Seite steht das Bestreben der Steuergerätehersteller, die die Kontaktspitzen der den gedruckten Schaltungen zugewandten Kontaktelemente derart genau positioniert wissen wollen, dass die Spitzen problemlos in die für sie vorgesehenen Aufnahmen auf den gedruckten Schaltungen finden.The automotive manufacturers have strict requirements for the connector assembly of the control unit manufacturers. For example, the individual contacts combined to form a plug-in module and extending in the direction of the plug connector must have a position tolerance of 0.4 mm at their contact tips. On the other hand, there is the endeavor of the control unit manufacturers who want the contact tips of the contact elements facing the printed circuits to be positioned so precisely that the tips easily find their way into the receptacles provided for them on the printed circuits.

Aufgrund des hohen Metallanteils aufgrund der elektrischen Kontakte und der unregelmäßig Verteilung innerhalb der Steckverbinderanordnung sowie einem damit einhergehenden möglicherweise unterschiedlichen Abkühlen einzelner Bereiche innerhalb der Steckverbinderanordnung kommt es zu nicht vorhersehbaren Verzügen der Steckverbinderanordnung. Um nun die oben geforderten Toleranzen einhalten zu können und die Steckverbinderanordnungen trotzdem vollautomatisiert fertigen zu können, sind an einem erst hergestellten Spritzgusswerkzeug umfangreiche Nacharbeiten erforderlich, die erhebliche Kosten verursachen.Due to the high metal content due to the electrical contacts and the irregular distribution within the connector arrangement and an associated possibly different cooling of individual areas within the connector arrangement, there are unforeseeable delays in the connector arrangement. In order to be able to meet the tolerances required above and still be able to manufacture the connector assemblies fully automatically, extensive reworking is required on an injection molding tool that has only been produced, which entails considerable costs.

Aus der US 7 234 950 B1 ist eine elektrische Steckeranordnung bekannt.From the US 7 234 950 B1 an electrical connector arrangement is known.

Aus der WO 2008/ 000931 A1 sind eine elektronische Steckkarte mit einem zweiteiligen Steckverbinder und ein Verfahren zu ihrer Herstellung bekannt.From the WO 2008/000931 A1 an electronic plug-in card with a two-part connector and a method for their production are known.

Aus der JP H08 287997 A sind eine Steckverbinderanordnung und ein Verfahren zu ihrer Herstellung bekannt.From the JP H08 287997 A a connector arrangement and a method for their production are known.

Zusammenfassung der ErfindungSummary of the invention

Es kann somit ein Bedürfnis bestehen, derartige Steckverbinderanordnungen zum einen kostengünstiger herzustellen und zum anderen Änderungen von Steckmodulen flexibler durchzuführen.There may therefore be a need to manufacture such connector arrangements on the one hand more cost-effectively and on the other hand to carry out changes to plug-in modules more flexibly.

Ein derartiges Bedürfnis kann durch den unabhängigen Anspruch befriedigt werden. Vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen ergeben sich aus den abhängigen AnsprüchenSuch a need can be met by the independent claim. Advantageous refinements result from the dependent claims

In einem Ausgestaltungsbeispiel der Erfindung wird eine modulare elektrische Steckerverbinderanordnung für Steuergeräte in einem Kraftfahrzeug mit einem Modulträger und wenigstens einem ersten und einem zweiten Steckmodul bereitgestellt, wobei das erste und das zweite Steckmodul nebeneinander und/oder hintereinander in dem Modulträger angeordnet sind. Das erste Steckmodul weist ein erstes Steckergehäuse auf, wobei das erste Steckergehäuse zur Aufnahme eines ersten elektrischen Steckverbinders ausgeformt ist. Das zweite Steckmodul weist ein zweites Steckergehäuse auf, wobei das zweite Steckergehäuse zur Aufnahme eines zweiten elektrischen Steckverbinders ausgeformt ist. Das erste Steckergehäuse weist ein elektrisch leitfähiges erstes Kontaktelement und das zweite Steckergehäuse ein elektrisch leitfähiges zweites Kontaktelement auf. Hierbei sind das erste Steckmodul und das zweite Steckmodul zueinander in dem Modulträger positioniert. Weiterhin sind das erste und zweite Steckmodul je mit dem Modulträger durch einen Fügeprozess unlösbar verbunden.In one exemplary embodiment of the invention, a modular electrical connector arrangement for control devices in a motor vehicle is provided with a module carrier and at least one first and a second plug-in module, the first and the second plug-in module being arranged next to one another and / or one behind the other in the module carrier. The first plug-in module has a first plug housing, the first plug housing being shaped to receive a first electrical plug connector. The second plug-in module has a second plug housing, the second plug housing being shaped to receive a second electrical plug connector. The first connector housing has an electrically conductive first contact element and the second connector housing has an electrically conductive second contact element. Here, the first plug-in module and the second plug-in module are positioned relative to one another in the module carrier. Furthermore, the first and second plug-in modules are each permanently connected to the module carrier by a joining process.

Der erste bzw. zweite Steckverbinder ist zu dem ersten bzw. zweiten Steckergehäuse komplementär ausgebildet und mit einem Kabel verbunden, wobei der Steckverbinder einen elektrisch leitfähigen Kontakt aufweist. Ein Bereich des Kontaktelements, der zur Kontaktierung mit dem Kontakt des Steckverbinders vorgesehen ist, ist komplementär zu dem Kontakt des Steckverbinders ausgeformt. Somit erfolgt durch das Anstecken der Steckverbinder an die jeweiligen Steckmodule eine elektrisch leitfähige Verbindung zwischen den Kontakten und den Kontaktelementen. Der Bereich des mit dem Steckmodul verbundenen Kontaktelements kann als male-Kontakt oder female-Kontakt ausgebildet sein. Auch können in einem Steckmodul sowohl male- als auch female-Kontakte angeordnet sein. Sowohl der Modulträger als auch die Steckmodule sind in der Regel aus nicht leitendem Kunststoff hergestellt. Die Kontaktelemente können in das jeweilige Steckergehäuse des Steckmoduls während des Herstellprozesses des Steckergehäuses eingebracht werden. In der Regel werden die Kontaktelemente dazu in eine Kuststoffspritzform eingelegt und während des Spritzprozesses mit dem Steckergehäuse unlösbar verbunden. Andererseits ist es auch möglich, die Kontaktelemente in das jeweilige Steckergehäuse des Steckmoduls einzubringen und mit diesem unlösbar zu verbinden, wenn das Steckergehäuse bereits gefertigt ist. Hierzu können die Kontaktelemente in das gefertigte Steckergehäuse beispielsweise eingeschossen werden. Nachdem das erste Steckmodul und das zweite Steckmodul, respektive die ersten und die zweiten Kontaktelemente, zueinander positioniert worden sind, werden die Steckmodule mit dem Modulträger durch einen Fügeprozess unlösbar mit dem Modulträger verbunden. Dieser Fügeprozess erfolgt durch Schweißen oder Kleben.The first or second connector is complementary to the first or second connector housing and connected with a cable, the connector having an electrically conductive contact. A region of the contact element, which is provided for contacting with the contact of the connector, is complementary to the contact of the connector. Thus, by plugging the connectors into the respective plug-in modules, an electrically conductive connection between the contacts and the contact elements takes place. The area of the contact element connected to the plug-in module can be designed as a male contact or a female contact. Also can be both in a plug-in module Male and female contacts can be arranged. Both the module carrier and the plug-in modules are usually made of non-conductive plastic. The contact elements can be introduced into the respective connector housing of the connector module during the manufacturing process of the connector housing. As a rule, the contact elements are placed in a plastic injection mold and are permanently connected to the connector housing during the injection process. On the other hand, it is also possible to insert the contact elements into the respective plug housing of the plug-in module and to permanently connect them to the plug module when the plug housing has already been manufactured. For this purpose, the contact elements can be shot into the manufactured connector housing, for example. After the first plug-in module and the second plug-in module, or respectively the first and the second contact elements, have been positioned relative to one another, the plug-in modules with the module carrier are connected to the module carrier by a joining process. This joining process is carried out by welding or gluing.

Die einzelnen Steckmodule müssen nicht notwendigerweise in einer Ebene angeordnet sein, sie können auch in einem vorbestimmten Winkel zueinander stehen.The individual plug-in modules do not necessarily have to be arranged in one plane, they can also be at a predetermined angle to one another.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist der Modulträger der modularen elektrischen Steckverbinderanordnung durch eine Vorderseite und eine der Vorderseite gegenüberliegende Rückseite begrenzt, wobei der Modulträger für das erste Steckmodul einen ersten sich zwischen der Vorderseite und der Rückseite in Richtung von der Vorderseite hin zu der Rückseite erstreckenden Durchbruch und für das zweite Steckmodul einen zweiten sich zwischen der Vorderseite und der Rückseite in Richtung von der Vorderseite hin zu der Rückseite erstreckenden Durchbruch aufweist. Der erste Durchbruch ist derart gestaltet, dass das in den ersten Durchbruch einführbare erste Steckmodul quer zu einer ersten Einsteckrichtung verschiebbar und um eine erste sich parallel zu der ersten Steckrichtung erstreckenden Achse drehbar ist. Der zweite Durchbruch ist derart gestaltet, dass das in den zweiten Durchbruch einführbare zweite Steckmodul quer zu der zweiten Steckrichtung verschiebbar und um eine zweite sich parallel in der zweiten Steckrichtung erstreckenden Achse drehbar ist.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the module carrier of the modular electrical connector arrangement is delimited by a front side and a rear side opposite the front side, the module carrier for the first plug-in module extending a first between the front side and the rear side in the direction from the front side to the rear side Breakthrough and for the second plug-in module has a second opening extending between the front and the rear in the direction from the front to the rear. The first opening is designed in such a way that the first plug-in module which can be inserted into the first opening can be displaced transversely to a first insertion direction and can be rotated about a first axis extending parallel to the first insertion direction. The second opening is designed such that the second plug-in module which can be inserted into the second opening can be displaced transversely to the second plug-in direction and can be rotated about a second axis which extends parallel in the second plug-in direction.

Das Einschieben des Steckmoduls in den Modulträger kann von der Vorderseite zur Rückseite des Modulträgers oder auch von der Rückseite zur Vorderseite des Modulträgers erfolgen. Natürlich kann bei Bedarf jedes Steckmodul auch in seiner Höhe, also in oder entgegen der Einsteckrichtung des jeweiligen Steckmoduls, positioniert werden. Durch die zwei bzw. drei translatorischen und dem einen rotatorischen Freiheitsgrad können die Kontaktelemente des zweiten Steckmoduls zu den Kontaktelementen des ersten Steckmoduls genau positioniert werden.The plug-in module can be inserted into the module carrier from the front to the rear of the module carrier or from the rear to the front of the module carrier. Of course, if necessary, each plug-in module can also be positioned in its height, ie in or against the insertion direction of the respective plug-in module. The contact elements of the second plug-in module can be positioned exactly with respect to the contact elements of the first plug-in module by means of the two or three translational and one rotational degree of freedom.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung weist das erste Steckergehäuse der modularen elektrischen Steckerverbinderanordnung erste Vorsprünge auf, wobei die ersten Vorsprünge derart gestaltet sind, dass das erste Steckmodul durch den ersten Durchbruch nicht durchsteckbar ist. Weiterhin weist das zweite Steckergehäuse zweite Vorsprünge auf, wobei die zweiten Vorsprünge derart gestaltet sind, dass das zweiten Steckmodul durch den zweiten Durchbruch nicht durchsteckbar ist.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first plug housing of the modular electrical plug connector arrangement has first projections, the first projections being designed such that the first plug-in module cannot be inserted through the first opening. Furthermore, the second connector housing has second projections, the second projections being designed such that the second plug-in module cannot be inserted through the second opening.

Somit können die Steckmodule in ihre jeweiligen Durchbrüche so weit eingeführt werden, bis die zum jeweiligen Gehäuse gehörenden Vorsprünge an der Vorderseite oder der Rückseite des Modulträgers anliegen. Somit bestimmen die Vorderseite oder Rückseite des Modulträgers in Verbindung mit den Vorsprünge die Ebene, in der die einzelnen Steckmodule positioniert werden.The plug-in modules can thus be inserted into their respective openings until the projections belonging to the respective housing bear against the front or the rear of the module carrier. The front or back of the module carrier in conjunction with the projections thus determine the level in which the individual plug-in modules are positioned.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung sind die ersten Vorsprünge zu einem ersten Flansch verbunden, wobei der erste Flansch derart gestaltet ist, dass der erste Durchbruch durch den ersten Flansch überdeckt ist. Die zweiten Vorsprünge sind zu einem zweiten Flansch verbunden, wobei der zweite Flansch derart gestaltet ist, dass der zweite Durchbruch durch den zweiten Flansch überdeckt ist.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first projections are connected to form a first flange, the first flange being designed in such a way that the first opening is covered by the first flange. The second projections are connected to form a second flange, the second flange being designed in such a way that the second opening is covered by the second flange.

Somit ist sichergestellt, dass unabhängig von der Position des Steckmoduls der Flansch den zugehörigen Durchbruch zuverlässig überdeckt. Somit kann der Flansch gleichzeitig als Klebefläche zur Verbindung des Steckmoduls mit dem Modulträger mittels eines geeigneten Klebstoffs dienen. Auch kann der Flansch im Schweißverfahren umlaufend mit dem Modulträger unlösbar verbunden werden. Sowohl die Klebeverbindung als auch die Schweißverbindung stellen sicher, dass das Steckmodul mit dem Modulträger staubdicht, spritzwassergeschützt, möglicherweise auch wasserdicht und vibrationsfest verbunden ist.This ensures that the flange reliably covers the associated opening regardless of the position of the plug-in module. Thus, the flange can simultaneously serve as an adhesive surface for connecting the plug-in module to the module carrier by means of a suitable adhesive. The flange can also be permanently connected to the module carrier in the welding process. Make both the adhesive connection and the weld connection sure that the plug-in module is dust-proof, splash-proof, possibly also watertight and vibration-proof.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist zwischen dem ersten und/oder dem zweiten Flansch und dem Modulträger eine Dichtung eingesetzt.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, a seal is inserted between the first and / or the second flange and the module carrier.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung weist das erste Steckmodul an dem ersten Steckergehäuse angeordnete und mit dem ersten Steckergehäuse unlösbar verbundene erste Verriegelungselemente zur Verriegelung des ersten Steckverbinders auf. Das zweite Steckmodul weist an dem zweiten Steckergehäuse angeordnete und mit dem zweiten Steckergehäuse unlösbar verbundene zweite Verriegelungselemente zur Verriegelung des zweiten Steckverbinders auf.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first plug-in module has first locking elements arranged on the first plug housing and permanently connected to the first plug housing for locking the first plug connector. The second plug-in module has second locking elements arranged on the second plug housing and non-releasably connected to the second plug housing for locking the second plug connector.

Mittels der Verriegelungen werden die Steckverbinder nach dem Anstecken an das Steckmodul in dieser Position mit dem jeweiligen Steckergehäuse verriegelt. Hierbei ist die Verriegelung lösbar ausgeführt. Die Verriegelung stellt sicher, dass der Steckverbinder vibrationssicher mit dem Steckmodul verbunden sein kann. Insbesondere bei Steckverbindern mit einer geringen Kontaktanzahl kann möglicherweise auf eine Verriegelung verzichtet werden, wenn die Haltekräfte der zueinander komplementär ausgebildeten Kontaktelemente des Steckmoduls und der Kontakte des Steckverbinders stark genug sind, so dass sich der Steckverbinder nicht aus dem Steckmodul durch Vibrationen lösen kann.By means of the locks, the plug connectors are locked in this position with the respective plug housing after being plugged into the plug-in module. Here, the lock is releasable. The lock ensures that the connector can be connected to the plug-in module in a vibration-proof manner. In particular in the case of connectors with a small number of contacts, it may be possible to dispense with locking if the holding forces of the complementary contact elements of the plug-in module and the contacts of the connector are strong enough so that the connector cannot be released from the plug-in module by vibrations.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung weisen das erste Kontaktelement und das zweite Kontaktelement je ein erstes Teilelement auf. Das erste Teilelement des ersten Kontaktelements erstreckt sich über das erste Steckergehäuse hinaus. Das erste Teilelement des zweiten Kontaktelements erstreckt sich über das zweite Steckergehäuse hinaus. Das erste Teilelement des ersten Kontaktelements und das erste Teilelement des zweiten Kontaktelements sind zueinander positioniert.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first contact element and the second contact element each have a first partial element. The first sub-element of the first contact element extends beyond the first connector housing. The first sub-element of the second contact element extends beyond the second connector housing. The first partial element of the first contact element and the first partial element of the second contact element are positioned relative to one another.

Das erste Teilelement kann sich sowohl in die Einsteckrichtung des jeweiligen Steckmoduls in den Modulträger als auch entgegen der Einsteckrichtung erstrecken. Das erste Teilelement kann sich auch quer zu der Einsteckrichtung erstrecken. Auch müssen das erste Teilelement des ersten Kontaktelements und das erste Teilelement des zweiten Kontaktelements sich nicht notwendigerweise in die gleiche Richtung erstrecken.The first sub-element can extend both in the direction of insertion of the respective plug-in module into the module carrier and counter to the direction of insertion. The first sub-element can also extend transversely to the direction of insertion extend. Also, the first sub-element of the first contact element and the first sub-element of the second contact element do not necessarily have to extend in the same direction.

Die innerhalb eines Steckmoduls angeordneten Kontaktelemente sind durch den Fertigungsprozess des einzelnen Steckmoduls in der Regel zueinander genau positioniert. In der Regel werden sich die ersten Teilelemente entgegen der Einsteckrichtung der Steckmodule erstrecken, wobei die ersten Teilelemente eingerichtet sind, mit einer gedruckten Schaltung des Steuergeräts elektrisch leitfähig verbunden zu werden. Durch ein auf die ersten Teilelemente bezogene Positionierung erfolgt auch eine Positionierung der einzelnen Steckmodule zueinander. Durch die exakte Positionierung der ersten Teilelemente aller Steckmodule zueinander ist es möglich, dass eine elektrisch leitfähige Verbindung der Kontaktelemente mit der wenigstens einen gedruckten Schaltung des Steuergeräts auch bei einer vollautomatischen Fertigung problemlos möglich ist. Die exakte Positionierung kann beispielsweise dadurch geschaffen werden, indem die Bereiche aller Teilelemente der einzelnen Steckmodule, die durch die wenigstens eine gedruckte Schaltung des Steuergeräts aufgenommen werden, eine Positionstoleranz von 0,4 mm zueinander aufweisen. Die Aufnahme dieser Bereiche kann beispielsweise durch Öffnungen wie beispielsweise Bohrungen in der wenigstens einen gedruckten Schaltung erfolgen, wobei diese Bereiche nach dem Einführen in die Öffnungen mit der gedruckten Schaltung beispielsweise durch Löten elektrisch leitend verbunden werden.The contact elements arranged within a plug-in module are generally precisely positioned relative to one another by the manufacturing process of the individual plug-in module. As a rule, the first sub-elements will extend counter to the insertion direction of the plug-in modules, the first sub-elements being set up to be connected in an electrically conductive manner to a printed circuit of the control device. The individual plug-in modules are also positioned relative to one another by means of a positioning related to the first partial elements. Due to the exact positioning of the first sub-elements of all plug-in modules relative to one another, it is possible for an electrically conductive connection of the contact elements to the at least one printed circuit of the control device to be possible without any problems even in the case of fully automatic production. The exact positioning can be created, for example, in that the areas of all sub-elements of the individual plug-in modules which are accommodated by the at least one printed circuit of the control device have a position tolerance of 0.4 mm to one another. These areas can be accommodated, for example, through openings such as bores in the at least one printed circuit, these areas being connected to the printed circuit in an electrically conductive manner, for example by soldering, after insertion into the openings.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung weisen das erste Kontaktelement der modularen elektrischen Steckverbindung und das zweite Kontaktelement je ein zweites Teilelement auf, wobei sich das zweite Teilelement zu dem ersten Teilelement gewinkelt angeordnet ist, wobei das erste Teilelement und das zweite Teilelement miteinander elektrisch leitfähig verbunden sind.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first contact element of the modular electrical plug connection and the second contact element each have a second partial element, the second partial element being arranged at an angle to the first partial element, the first partial element and the second partial element being connected to one another in an electrically conductive manner .

In der Regel werden die zweiten Teilelemente direkt mit den gedruckten Schaltungen verbunden. Die Verbindung kann eine Lötverbindung sein. Die zweiten Teilelemente können in die gedruckte Schaltung auch eingepresst sein. Auch gibt es die Möglichkeit, die zweiten Teilelemente mit auf den gedruckten Schaltungen angeordneten Steckverbindern zu verbinden. Da aus Platzgründen in der Regel die Steckmodule derart angeordnet sind, dass die Steckrichtung parallel zur Erstreckungsrichtung der mit elektrischen Bauteilen bestückten Platine erfolgt, bilden die zweiten Teilelemente zu den ersten Teilelementen in der Regel einen 90°-Winkel aus, können aber auch jeden anderen Winkel ausbilden. Je nach Gestaltung der Kontaktstellen der gedruckten Schaltungen können die ersten und/oder zweiten Teilelemente auch innerhalb eines Steckmoduls unterschiedlich lang ausgebildet sein.As a rule, the second sub-elements are connected directly to the printed circuits. The connection can be a solder connection. The second sub-elements can also be pressed into the printed circuit. There is also the possibility of connecting the second partial elements with plug connectors arranged on the printed circuits. Since, for reasons of space, the plug-in modules are generally arranged such that the plug-in direction parallel to the direction of extension of the circuit board equipped with electrical components, the second sub-elements generally form a 90 ° angle to the first sub-elements, but can also form any other angle. Depending on the design of the contact points of the printed circuits, the first and / or second sub-elements can also have different lengths within a plug-in module.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist wenigstens ein Kontaktelement aus der Gruppe von dem ersten Kontaktelement und dem zweiten Kontaktelement als ein elektrisch leitfähiger Stift ausgebildet.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, at least one contact element from the group of the first contact element and the second contact element is designed as an electrically conductive pin.

Elektrisch leitfähige Kontakte in Stiftform sind besonders preisgünstig herzustellen. Die Kontakte können einstückig hergestellt sein. Derartige Stifte können beispielsweise einen kreisförmigen, quadratischen oder auch rechteckigen Querschnitt aufweisen. Die Querschnittsfläche kann sich aufgrund der zu übertragenden elektrischen Ströme ergeben. In der Regel sind die Querschnittsflächen zur Ansteuerung von Aktoren, wie beispielsweise der Zündung, größer bemessen als die Querschnittsflächen zur Abfragung von Sensoren.Electrically conductive contacts in the form of pins are particularly inexpensive to manufacture. The contacts can be made in one piece. Such pins can have, for example, a circular, square or else rectangular cross section. The cross-sectional area can result from the electrical currents to be transmitted. As a rule, the cross-sectional areas for actuating actuators, such as the ignition, are larger than the cross-sectional areas for sensing sensors.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist das erste Steckmodul von dem zweiten Steckmodul verschieden.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first plug-in module is different from the second plug-in module.

Hierunter kann verstanden werden, dass beispielsweise die Anzahl der Kontaktelemente innerhalb des ersten Steckmoduls unterschiedlich zu der Anzahl der Kontaktelemente des zweiten Steckmoduls ist. Beispielsweise können auch die Steckergehäuse derjeweiligen Steckmodule unterschiedlich gestaltet sein.This can be understood to mean that, for example, the number of contact elements within the first plug-in module differs from the number of contact elements in the second plug-in module. For example, the plug housings of the respective plug modules can also be designed differently.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist ein Steuergerät für ein Kraftfahrzeug mit einer modularen elektrischen Steckerverbinderanordnung ausgestattet.In a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, a control device for a motor vehicle is equipped with a modular electrical connector arrangement.

Die Vorteile der Erfindung lassen sich wie folgt zusammenfassen: Durch den modularen Aufbau der elektrischen Steckverbinderanordnung mittels eines Modulträgers und Steckmodulen ergibt sich die Möglichkeit einer kostengünstigen und platzsparenden Integration von den Steckmodulen. Die Steckmodule können individuell in ihrer Form ausgeführt werden. Weiterhin können die Steckmodule individuell angeordnet werden. Die eingangs erwähnten Verzugs- und Schwindungsproblematik, die sich aus der Verwendung von Kunststoff hinsichtlich von Form und Ladetoleranzen ergibt, haben weitestgehend keinen Einfluss, so dass Werkzeugkorrekturkosten hinsichtlich der Steckmodulpositionstoleranzen reduziert werden bzw. völlig entfallen. Ein Layout der Kontaktelemente, welche die Übertragung der Signale vom Inneren des Steuergeräts respektive der gedruckten Schaltungen nach außen zu den Steckverbindern und den damit verbundenen Kabeln gewährleisten, bieten neue Freiheiten in der Gestaltung. Weiterhin können die Spritzgusswerkzeuge einfacher und somit kostengünstiger aufgebaut werden. Dadurch, dass die Steckmodule einzeln gefertigt werden, sind diese mit einer höheren Genauigkeit fertigbar und erlauben, dass die Steckkräfte für die Steckverbinder in engeren Grenzen liegen. Weiterhin ermöglicht der modulare Aufbau eine größere Freiheit bei der Gestaltung der mit einem Kabel verbundenen Steckverbinder.The advantages of the invention can be summarized as follows: The modular structure of the electrical connector arrangement by means of a module carrier and plug-in modules results in the possibility of one cost-effective and space-saving integration of the plug-in modules. The plug-in modules can be designed individually. Furthermore, the plug-in modules can be arranged individually. The warpage and shrinkage problems mentioned at the outset, which result from the use of plastic with regard to shape and loading tolerances, have largely no influence, so that tool correction costs with regard to the plug-in module position tolerances are reduced or completely eliminated. A layout of the contact elements, which ensure the transmission of the signals from the inside of the control unit or the printed circuits to the outside to the plug connectors and the cables connected to them, offer new freedom in design. Furthermore, the injection molding tools can be constructed more simply and therefore more cost-effectively. Because the plug-in modules are manufactured individually, they can be manufactured with greater accuracy and allow the plug-in forces for the plug-in connectors to be within narrow limits. Furthermore, the modular structure allows greater freedom in the design of the connectors connected with a cable.

Es wird angemerkt, dass Gedanken zu der Erfindung hierin im Zusammenhang sowohl aus einer modularen elektrischen Steckverbinderanordnung mit einem Modulträger und Steckmodulen als auch aus einem Steuergerät beschrieben sind. Einem Fachmann ist hierbei klar, dass die einzelnen beschriebenen Merkmale auf verschiedene Weise miteinander kombiniert werden können, um so auch zu anderen Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung zu gelangen.It is noted that ideas relating to the invention are described herein in connection with a modular electrical connector arrangement with a module carrier and plug-in modules and also with a control unit. It is clear to a person skilled in the art that the individual features described can be combined with one another in different ways in order to arrive at other configurations of the invention.

Kurze Beschreibung der ZeichnungenBrief description of the drawings

Ausführungsformen der Erfindung werden nachfolgend mit Bezug auf die beigefügten Figuren beschrieben. Die Figuren sind lediglich schematisch und nicht maßstabsgetreu.

Figur 1
zeigt eine modulare elektrische Steckverbinderanordnung mit einem Modulträger und Steckmodulen in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,
Figur 2
zeigt einen Querschnitt des Modulträgers mit zwei Steckmodulen,
Figur 3
zeigt einen Querschnitt des Modulträgers mit einem Steckmodul und einer Dichtung, und
Figur 4
zeigt eine Rückseite des mit Steckmodulen bestückten Modulträgers in Aufsicht.
Embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying figures. The figures are only schematic and are not to scale.
Figure 1
shows a modular electrical connector arrangement with a module carrier and plug-in modules in a perspective view,
Figure 2
shows a cross section of the module carrier with two plug-in modules,
Figure 3
shows a cross section of the module carrier with a plug-in module and a seal, and
Figure 4
shows a rear view of the module carrier equipped with plug-in modules in supervision.

Detaillierte Beschreibung beispielhafter AusführungsformenDetailed description of exemplary embodiments

Figur 1 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht einer modularen elektrischen Steckverbinderanordnung 2, bestehend aus einem Modulträger 4 und einem ersten 6, einem zweiten 8 und einem dritten Steckmodul 10. Hierbei sind das erste 6, das zweite 8 und das dritte Steckmodul 10 entweder hintereinander oder nebeneinander angeordnet. An dem ersten Steckmodul 6 ist ein erstes Steckergehäuse 12, an dem zweiten Steckmodul 8 ein zweites Steckergehäuse 14 und an dem dritten Steckmodul 10 ein drittes Steckergehäuse 16 ausgebildet. Alle Steckergehäuse 12, 14, 16 sind zur Aufnahme von je einem hier nicht dargestellten elektrischen Steckverbinder in einer mit einem Pfeil gekennzeichneten Steckrichtung S ausgeformt. Weiterhin sind in dem ersten Steckmodul 6 ein erstes Kontaktelement 18, in dem zweiten Steckmodul 8 ein zweites Kontaktelement 20 und in dem dritten Steckmodul 10 ein drittes Kontaktelement 22 angeordnet. Hierbei sind die Kontaktelemente 18, 20, 22 elektrisch leitfähig ausgebildet. Alle Kontaktelemente 18, 20, 22 erstrecken sich in der Steckrichtung S über die jeweiligen Steckergehäuse 12, 14, 16 hinaus. Die Steckmodule 6, 8, 10 sind derart in dem Modulträger 4 angeordnet, dass sich die jeweiligen Steckergehäuse 12, 14, 16 von einer Vorderseite 24 des Modulträgers 4 entgegen der Steckrichtung S erstrecken. Eine der Vorderseite 24 des Modulträgers 4 gegenüberliegende Rückseite 26 ist einem hier nicht dargestellten Inneren eines Steuergerätes zugewandt. Alle Kontaktelemente 18, 20, 22 sind in dem hier beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiel als einstückige Stiftkontakte ausgebildet. Der sich in der Steckrichtung S über das Steckergehäuse 12, 14, 16 hinaus erstreckende Anteil gliedert sich in ein erstes Teilelement 50 und ein zweites Teilelement 52. Hierbei erstreckt sich das erste Teilelement 50 in die Steckrichtung S. Das zweite Teilelement 52 ist zu dem ersten Teilelement gewinkelt, wobei das erste Teilelement 50 und das zweite Teilelement 52 einen Winkel α einschließen. In dem hier vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel beträgt der Winkel α 90°. Die ersten 50 und zweiten Teilelemente 52 können auch innerhalb eines Steckmoduls 6, 8, 10 unterschiedlich lang sein. Das wenigstens eine zweite Teilelement 52 ist zur Aufnahme in und/oder an einer hier nicht dargestellten gedruckten Schaltung vorgesehen. In dem hier vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel ist das wenigstens eine zweite Teilelement 52 derart ausgeformt, um in Bohrungen einer Platine der gedruckten Schaltung eingeführt und dort verlötet zu werden. Die zweiten Teilelemente 52 sind zueinander parallel ausgerichtet und erstrecken sich alle in die gleiche Richtung. Die zweiten Teilelemente 52 sind derart zueinander positioniert, dass die Positionstoleranz an allen zur Verlötung mit der Platine vorgesehenen Enden 0,4 mm beträgt. Zusätzlich kann die Positionstoleranz der zweiten Teilelemente 52 zu der Rückseite 26 des Modulträgers 4 ebenfalls 0,4 mm betragen. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a modular electrical connector assembly 2, consisting of a module carrier 4 and a first 6, a second 8 and a third plug-in module 10. Here, the first 6, the second 8 and the third plug-in module 10 are arranged either one behind the other or next to one another. A first plug housing 12 is formed on the first plug-in module 6, a second plug housing 14 on the second plug-in module 8 and a third plug housing 16 on the third plug-in module 10. All connector housings 12, 14, 16 are shaped to accommodate one electrical connector, not shown here, in a plug direction S marked with an arrow. Furthermore, a first contact element 18 is arranged in the first plug-in module 6, a second contact element 20 in the second plug-in module 8 and a third contact element 22 in the third plug-in module 10. Here, the contact elements 18, 20, 22 are electrically conductive. All contact elements 18, 20, 22 extend in the plug direction S beyond the respective plug housings 12, 14, 16. The plug-in modules 6, 8, 10 are arranged in the module carrier 4 in such a way that the respective plug housings 12, 14, 16 extend from a front side 24 of the module carrier 4 against the plug-in direction S. A rear side 26 opposite the front side 24 of the module carrier 4 faces an interior of a control unit, not shown here. In the exemplary embodiment described here, all contact elements 18, 20, 22 are designed as one-piece pin contacts. The portion which extends beyond the connector housing 12, 14, 16 in the plug-in direction S is divided into a first sub-element 50 and a second sub-element 52. The first sub-element 50 extends in the plug-in direction S. The second sub-element 52 is the first Sub-element angled, the first sub-element 50 and the second sub-element 52 enclosing an angle α. In the present embodiment, the angle α is 90 °. The first 50 and second sub-elements 52 can also have different lengths within a plug-in module 6, 8, 10. The at least one second sub-element 52 is for Provided in and / or on a printed circuit, not shown here. In the present exemplary embodiment, the at least one second sub-element 52 is shaped in such a way that it is inserted into holes in a printed circuit board and soldered there. The second sub-elements 52 are aligned parallel to one another and all extend in the same direction. The second sub-elements 52 are positioned relative to one another in such a way that the position tolerance at all ends intended for soldering to the circuit board is 0.4 mm. In addition, the position tolerance of the second sub-elements 52 to the rear 26 of the module carrier 4 can also be 0.4 mm.

Das erste Steckergehäuse 12 begrenzt einen ersten Innenraum 13, das zweite Steckergehäuse 14 einen zweiten Innenraum 15 und das dritte Steckergehäuse 16 einen dritten Innenraum 17. In die Innenräume 13, 15, 17 ragen, dritte Teilelemente 54, die als Stifte ausgebildet sind, etwa 8 mm in die Steckergehäuse 12, 14, 16 hinein, wie dies in Figur 2 am ersten Steckmodul 6 ersichtlich ist. An den Schmalseiten der Steckermodule 6, 8, 10 sind erste 46 und zweite Verriegelungselemente 48 ausgebildet. Die Verriegelungselemente 46, 48 verriegeln in die Steckergehäuse 12, 14, 16 eingeführte und hier nicht dargestellte Steckverbinder. Zum Entfernen der Steckverbinder aus den Steckergehäusen 12, 14, 16 sind die Verriegelungselemente 46, 48 lösbar, wobei der Lösemechanismus meist an den Steckverbindern ausgebildet ist. Die Verriegelungselemente 46, 48 verhindern, dass sich die Steckverbinder beispielsweise aufgrund von Vibrationen aus den Steckmodulen 6, 8, 10 selbständig lösen können. Die Steckmodule 6, 8, 10 sind mit dem Modulträger 4 unlösbar verbunden.The first connector housing 12 delimits a first interior 13, the second connector housing 14 a second interior 15 and the third connector housing 16 a third interior 17. Third sub-elements 54, which are designed as pins, project into the interiors 13, 15, 17, approximately 8 mm into the connector housing 12, 14, 16 as in Figure 2 can be seen on the first plug-in module 6. First 46 and second locking elements 48 are formed on the narrow sides of the plug modules 6, 8, 10. The locking elements 46, 48 lock in the connector housings 12, 14, 16 inserted connectors and not shown here. To remove the connectors from the connector housings 12, 14, 16, the locking elements 46, 48 can be released, the release mechanism usually being formed on the connectors. The locking elements 46, 48 prevent the plug connectors from being able to come loose independently, for example due to vibrations from the plug-in modules 6, 8, 10. The plug-in modules 6, 8, 10 are permanently connected to the module carrier 4.

Figur 2 zeigt einen Querschnitt durch den Modulträger 4 mit dem ersten Steckmodul 6 und dem zweiten Steckmodul 8. In dem Modulträger 4 ist ein erster 28, zweiter 30 und dritter Durchbruch 32 ausgeformt. Der erste Durchbruch 28 ist zur Aufnahme eines ersten Steckermoduls 6, der zweite Durchbruch 30 zur Aufnahme eines zweiten Steckermoduls 8 und der dritte Durchbruch 32 zur Aufnahme eines hier nicht dargestellten dritten Steckermoduls 10 ausgebildet. Die Durchbrüche 28, 30, 32 erstrecken sich zwischen der Vorderseite 24 und der Rückseite 26 des Modulträgers 4 in Richtung von der Vorderseite 24 hin zur Rückseite 26. Eindeutig erkennbar ist, dass das erste Steckmodul 6 von dem zweiten Steckmodul 8 unterschiedlich ist. In dem hier vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel werden das erste 6 und das zweite Steckmodul 8 von der Rückseite 26 des Modulträgers 4 entlang einer Einsteckrichtung E zur Vorderseite 24 des Modulträgers 4 eingeführt. Die Einsteckrichtung E erstreckt sich parallel zu den Durchbrüchen 28, 30, 32. Hier ist die Einsteckrichtung E der Steckmodule 6, 8 entgegengesetzt der Steckrichtung S der hier nicht dargestellten Steckverbinder. Deutlich sichtbar ist, dass die Durchbrüche 28, 30 größer sind als die zugehörigen Steckmodule 6, 8. Hierdurch können die Steckmodule 6, 8 zu einer genauen Positionierung quer zu der Einsteckrichtung E verschoben werden. Weiterhin erstreckt sich parallel zur Einsteckrichtung E eine erste Achse 34, um die das erste Steckmodul 6 in einem vorbestimmten Winkel drehbar ist. Ebenfalls parallel zur Einsteckrichtung E erstreckt sich eine zweite Achse 36, um die das zweite Steckmodul 8 ebenfalls in einem vorbestimmten Winkel drehbar ist. Die Drehbarkeit der Steckmodule 6, 8 ist durch gekrümmte Doppelpfeile 56 angedeutet. Um eine Durchsteckbarkeit der Steckmodule 6, 8 durch die Durchbrüche 28, 30 zu verhindern, besitzen das erste Steckergehäuse 12 einen ersten umlaufenden Flansch 38 und das zweite Steckergehäuse 14 einen zweiten umlaufenden Flansch 40. Die beiden Flansche 38, 40 sind scheibenartig ausgebildet. Die beiden Flansche 38, 40 sind so ausgebildet, dass diese unabhängig von der von den Steckmodulen 6, 8 eingenommenen Position in den Durchbrüchen 28, 30 die Durchbrüche 28, 30 überdecken. Figure 2 shows a cross section through the module carrier 4 with the first plug-in module 6 and the second plug-in module 8. A first 28, second 30 and third opening 32 are formed in the module carrier 4. The first opening 28 is designed to accommodate a first connector module 6, the second opening 30 to accommodate a second connector module 8 and the third opening 32 to accommodate a third connector module 10, not shown here. The openings 28, 30, 32 extend between the front side 24 and the rear side 26 of the module carrier 4 in the direction from the front side 24 to the rear side 26. It is clearly recognizable that the first plug-in module 6 of the second plug-in module 8 is different. In the present exemplary embodiment, the first 6 and the second plug-in module 8 are inserted from the rear 26 of the module carrier 4 along an insertion direction E to the front 24 of the module carrier 4. The direction of insertion E extends parallel to the openings 28, 30, 32. Here, the direction of insertion E of the plug-in modules 6, 8 is opposite to the direction of insertion S of the plug connectors not shown here. It is clearly visible that the openings 28, 30 are larger than the associated plug-in modules 6, 8. As a result, the plug-in modules 6, 8 can be moved transversely to the insertion direction E for precise positioning. Furthermore, a first axis 34 extends parallel to the insertion direction E, about which the first plug-in module 6 can be rotated at a predetermined angle. Also extending parallel to the insertion direction E is a second axis 36 about which the second plug-in module 8 can also be rotated at a predetermined angle. The rotatability of the plug-in modules 6, 8 is indicated by curved double arrows 56. In order to prevent the plug-in modules 6, 8 from being able to be pushed through the openings 28, 30, the first plug housing 12 has a first circumferential flange 38 and the second plug housing 14 has a second circumferential flange 40. The two flanges 38, 40 are designed like disks. The two flanges 38, 40 are designed such that they cover the openings 28, 30 in the openings 28, 30, regardless of the position assumed by the plug-in modules 6, 8.

Die Positionierung der Steckmodule 6, 8 erfolgt dadurch, dass die über die Steckergehäuse 12, 14 herausragenden ersten Teilelemente 50 zueinander auf einen vorbestimmten Abstand zueinander eingerichtet werden. In diesem Zustand werden die einzelnen individuell hergestellten Steckmodule 6, 8 mittels eines Fügeprozesses mit dem einstückig ausgebildeten Modulträger 4 unlösbar verbunden. In dem hier dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel wurde das zweite Steckmodul 8 mit dem Modulträger 4 verschweißt, wobei die Schweißnaht durch eine Schweißraupe 42 dargestellt ist. Die umlaufende Schweißnaht stellt sicher, dass die Steckmodule 6, 8 mit dem Modulträger 4 derart verbunden sind, dass weder Staub noch Spritzwasser zwischen den Steckmodulen 6, 8 und den Durchbrüchen 28, 30 von der Vorderseite 24 zu der Rückseite 26 wandern und damit möglicherweise in ein Geräteinneres eindringen können.The plug-in modules 6, 8 are positioned in that the first sub-elements 50 projecting beyond the plug housings 12, 14 are set up at a predetermined distance from one another. In this state, the individual, individually produced plug-in modules 6, 8 are permanently connected to the one-piece module carrier 4 by means of a joining process. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, the second plug-in module 8 was welded to the module carrier 4, the weld seam being represented by a weld bead 42. The circumferential weld seam ensures that the plug-in modules 6, 8 are connected to the module carrier 4 in such a way that neither dust nor splash water migrate between the plug-in modules 6, 8 and the openings 28, 30 from the front 24 to the rear 26 and thus possibly in can penetrate inside the device.

Figur 3 zeigt einen Querschnitt des Modulträgers 4 mit einem ersten Steckmodul 6. In diesem Ausführungsbeispiel ist zwischen dem ersten Flansch 38 und der Rückseite 26 des Modulträgers 4 eine den ersten Durchbruch 28 überdeckende Dichtung 44 angeordnet. Figure 3 shows a cross section of the module carrier 4 with a first plug-in module 6. In this exemplary embodiment, a seal 44 covering the first opening 28 is arranged between the first flange 38 and the rear side 26 of the module carrier 4.

Figur 4 zeigt die Rückseite 26 des Modulträgers 4 mit den Steckmodulen 6, 8, 10 in Aufsicht. Die Rückseite 26 weist zu der gedruckten Schaltung, welche hier nicht dargestellt ist. Deutlich erkennbar ist, dass die Kontaktelemente 18, 20, 22 der jeweiligen Steckmodule 6, 8 10 unterschiedlich dick sind. Dies setzt sich auch in einer Querschnittsfläche der einzelnen Kontaktelemente 18, 20, 22 fort, so dass eine Querschnittsfläche des zweiten Kontaktelements 20 größer ist als eine Querschnittsfläche beispielsweise des ersten Kontaktelements 18. Damit ist das zweite Kontaktelement 20 in der Lage, größere Ströme zu übertragen als das erste Kontaktelement 18. Kontaktelemente 20 mit größeren Querschnittsflächen werden in der Regel dazu benützt, um Aktoren wie beispielsweise die Zündung oder die Treibstoffeinspritzung zu steuern oder zu regeln. Mittels der Kontaktelemente 18, 22 mit geringerem Querschnitt werden in der Regel von Sensoren erfasste Parameter übertragen. Die zweiten Teilelemente 52 enden in dem hier dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel alle auf einer Höhe. Alle Kontaktelemente 18, 20, 22 der jeweiligen Steckmodule 6, 8, 10 werden mit der gedruckten Schaltung elektrisch leitfähig verbunden. Die elektrische Leitfähigkeit im hier dargestellten Beispiel wird durch einen Lötprozess sichergestellt. Hierzu werden die zweiten Teilelemente in Bohrungen eingeführt, die sich in einer Platine der gedruckten Schaltung befinden. Figure 4 shows the back 26 of the module carrier 4 with the plug-in modules 6, 8, 10 in supervision. The rear side 26 faces the printed circuit, which is not shown here. It can be clearly seen that the contact elements 18, 20, 22 of the respective plug-in modules 6, 8 10 are of different thicknesses. This also continues in a cross-sectional area of the individual contact elements 18, 20, 22, so that a cross-sectional area of the second contact element 20 is larger than a cross-sectional area of, for example, the first contact element 18. The second contact element 20 is thus able to transmit larger currents than the first contact element 18. Contact elements 20 with larger cross-sectional areas are generally used to control or regulate actuators such as the ignition or the fuel injection. Parameters detected by sensors are generally transmitted by means of the contact elements 18, 22 with a smaller cross section. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, the second sub-elements 52 all end at one level. All contact elements 18, 20, 22 of the respective plug-in modules 6, 8, 10 are electrically conductively connected to the printed circuit. The electrical conductivity in the example shown here is ensured by a soldering process. For this purpose, the second sub-elements are inserted into bores which are located in a printed circuit board.

Claims (9)

  1. Modular electrical plug connector arrangement for control devices in a motor vehicle, comprising a module carrier (4) and at least one first plug-in module (6) and one second plug-in module (8),
    wherein the first plug-in module (6) has a first plug housing (12), wherein the first plug housing (12) is formed for receiving a first electrical plug-in connector, wherein the first plug housing (12) has an electrically conductive first contact element (18), wherein the second plug-in module (8) has a second plug housing (14), wherein the second plug housing (14) is formed for receiving a second electrical plug-in connector, wherein the second plug housing (14) has an electrically conductive second contact element (20), wherein the first plug-in module (6) and the second plug-in module (8) are arranged next to one another and/or one behind the other in the module carrier (4),
    wherein the first plug-in module (6) and the second plug-in module (8) are positioned relative to one another in the module carrier (4), and
    wherein the first plug-in module (6) and the second plug-in module (8) are each non-releasably connected to the module carrier (4) by welding or adhesive bonding, wherein the module carrier (4) is delimited by a front side (24) and a rear side (26) which is situated opposite the front side (24),
    wherein the module carrier (4) has, for the first plug-in module (6), a first aperture (28) which extends between the front side (24) and the rear side (26) in the direction from the front side to the rear side,
    characterized in that the module carrier (4) has, for the second plug-in module (8), a second aperture (30) which extends between the front side (24) and the rear side (26) in the direction from the front side to the rear side,
    wherein the first aperture (28) is configured in such a way that the first plug-in module (6), which can be inserted into the first aperture (28), can be displaced transversely in relation to a first insertion direction (E) of the first plug-in module (6) and can be rotated about a first axis (34) which extends parallel in relation to the first insertion direction (E),
    wherein the second aperture (30) is configured in such a way that the second plug-in module (8), which can be inserted into the second aperture (30), can be displaced transversely in relation to a second insertion direction (E) of the second plug-in module (8) and can be rotated about a second axis (36) which extends parallel in relation to the second insertion direction (E).
  2. Modular electrical plug connector arrangement according to Claim 1,
    characterized in that
    the first plug housing (12) has first projections, wherein the first projections are configured in such a way that the first plug-in module (6) cannot be plugged through the first aperture (28), and/or in that the second plug housing (14) has second projections, wherein the second projections are configured in such a way that the second plug-in module (8) cannot be plugged through the second aperture (30).
  3. Modular electrical plug connector arrangement according to Claim 2,
    characterized in that
    the first projections are connected to form a first flange (38), wherein the first flange (38) is configured in such a way that the first aperture (28) is covered by the first flange (38), and/or in that the second projections are connected to form a second flange (40), wherein the second flange (40) is configured in such a way that the second aperture (30) is covered by the second flange (40).
  4. Modular electrical plug connector arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first plug-in module (6) has first locking elements (46), which are arranged on the first plug housing (12) and are non-releasably connected to the first plug housing (12), for locking the first plug-in connector, and/or in that the second plug-in module (8) has second locking elements (48), which are arranged on the second plug housing (14) and are non-releasably connected to the second plug housing (14), for locking the second plug-in connector.
  5. Modular electrical plug connector arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first contact element (18) and the second contact element (20) each have a first component element (50), wherein the first component element (50) of the first contact element (18) extends beyond the first plug housing (12), wherein the first component element (50) of the second contact element (20) extends beyond the second plug housing (14), wherein the first component element (50) of the first contact element (18) and the first component element (50) of the second contact element (20) are positioned relative to one another.
  6. Modular electrical plug connector arrangement according to Claim 5,
    characterized in that
    the first contact element (18) and the second contact element (20) each have a second component element (52), wherein the second component element (52) is arranged at an angle in relation to the first component element (50), wherein the first component element (50) and the second component element (52) are electrically conductively connected to one another.
  7. Modular electrical plug connector arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one contact element from the group comprising the first contact element (18) and the second contact element (20) is designed as an electrically conductive pin.
  8. Modular electrical plug connector arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first plug-in module (6) is different from the second plug-in module (8).
  9. Control device for a motor vehicle comprising a modular electrical plug connector arrangement (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 8.
EP12707071.2A 2011-03-28 2012-02-24 Modular electrical plug connector assembly Active EP2692025B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102011006195A DE102011006195A1 (en) 2011-03-28 2011-03-28 Modular electrical connector assembly
PCT/EP2012/053198 WO2012130537A1 (en) 2011-03-28 2012-02-24 Modular electrical plug connector assembly

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2692025A1 EP2692025A1 (en) 2014-02-05
EP2692025B1 true EP2692025B1 (en) 2020-05-27

Family

ID=45808812

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP12707071.2A Active EP2692025B1 (en) 2011-03-28 2012-02-24 Modular electrical plug connector assembly

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US9099828B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2692025B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5774192B2 (en)
KR (1) KR101689784B1 (en)
CN (1) CN103444006B (en)
DE (1) DE102011006195A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2012130537A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2518835B1 (en) * 2011-04-28 2019-01-16 Harman Becker Automotive Systems GmbH Electrical connector
DE102012204145A1 (en) 2012-03-16 2013-09-19 Continental Automotive Gmbh Housing cover for receiving plug modules
US9048560B2 (en) 2013-01-29 2015-06-02 Avx Corporation Modular electrical connector assembly and associated method of making
DE102013204149A1 (en) * 2013-03-11 2014-09-25 Robert Bosch Gmbh A method of manufacturing a modular electrical plug connector assembly for a control device in a motor vehicle
DE102013204150A1 (en) * 2013-03-11 2014-09-25 Robert Bosch Gmbh Modular electrical connector assembly for a control unit in a motor vehicle
DE102013209441A1 (en) 2013-05-22 2014-11-27 Robert Bosch Gmbh Modular plug arrangement with attenuated plug connector modules
DE102013226204A1 (en) 2013-12-17 2015-06-18 Conti Temic Microelectronic Gmbh Plug-in module for a motor unit
US9287663B1 (en) * 2014-08-26 2016-03-15 Lg Chem, Ltd. Electrical connector and method of electrically coupling first and second electrical terminals of first and second battery cells to one another
DE102014114641A1 (en) * 2014-10-09 2016-04-14 Krones Aktiengesellschaft Device for filling a container with a filling product
CN108061943B (en) * 2016-11-07 2020-01-17 泰科电子(上海)有限公司 Connector with a locking member
EP3322042B1 (en) * 2016-11-15 2020-03-18 Aptiv Technologies Limited Header connector comprising an interior undercut space
US10027051B1 (en) * 2017-02-20 2018-07-17 Robert Bosch Gmbh Hybrid electrical connector
US20190067861A1 (en) * 2017-08-28 2019-02-28 Jf Microtechnology Sdn. Bhd. Low inductance electrical contact assembly
EP3540867A1 (en) 2018-03-16 2019-09-18 Connecteurs Electriques Deutsch Connector housing and adapter
EP3902074A1 (en) * 2020-04-20 2021-10-27 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Modular outlet box for busbar trunking systems
DE202023103558U1 (en) 2023-06-26 2023-07-25 Robert Bosch Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung Connector and connector assembly

Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH08287997A (en) * 1995-04-14 1996-11-01 Amp Japan Ltd Connector assembly and its manufacture

Family Cites Families (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS60188487U (en) * 1984-05-25 1985-12-13 株式会社日立国際電気 connector
JPH081101A (en) 1994-06-23 1996-01-09 Japan Steel Works Ltd:The Sorting method for raw material of plastic container and apparatus therefor
JPH09187310A (en) 1996-01-09 1997-07-22 Citizen Watch Co Ltd Fastening structure for accessory
US5836786A (en) * 1996-05-21 1998-11-17 The Whitaker Corporation Patch panel having snap together construction
US6537106B1 (en) * 1998-06-05 2003-03-25 Adc Telecommunications, Inc. Telecommunications patch panel with angled connector modules
FR2827083B1 (en) * 2001-07-06 2003-08-29 Cinch Connecteurs Sa CONNECTOR FOR TANK
US7105076B2 (en) 2002-02-04 2006-09-12 Andritz Inc. Gas phase continuous digester having an inverted top separator with liquor injection
JP4356548B2 (en) * 2004-07-20 2009-11-04 住友電装株式会社 Board connector
US7234950B1 (en) * 2006-04-26 2007-06-26 Robert Bosch Gmbh Electrical connector assembly
FR2903236B1 (en) * 2006-06-30 2008-10-03 Valeo Sys Controle Moteur Sas ELECTRONIC CARD WITH A TWO-PART CONNECTOR AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SUCH A CARD
WO2008000103A1 (en) 2006-06-30 2008-01-03 Jean-Elie Tornare Road-transportable installation for liquefying and temporarily storing natural gas and refueling vehicles therewith
JP2009543299A (en) * 2006-06-30 2009-12-03 モレックス インコーポレイテド Compliant pin control module and manufacturing method thereof
JP2009117218A (en) * 2007-11-07 2009-05-28 Jst Mfg Co Ltd Elastic body hook-partition connector
US7909643B2 (en) * 2009-02-27 2011-03-22 Tyco Electronics Corporation Cassette for a cable interconnect system
TWI376842B (en) * 2009-09-18 2012-11-11 Via Tech Inc Lead arrangement, electric connector and electric assembly

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH08287997A (en) * 1995-04-14 1996-11-01 Amp Japan Ltd Connector assembly and its manufacture

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
KR101689784B1 (en) 2016-12-26
EP2692025A1 (en) 2014-02-05
JP2014510380A (en) 2014-04-24
US20140045373A1 (en) 2014-02-13
CN103444006A (en) 2013-12-11
US9099828B2 (en) 2015-08-04
KR20130116354A (en) 2013-10-23
CN103444006B (en) 2016-12-21
DE102011006195A1 (en) 2012-10-04
WO2012130537A1 (en) 2012-10-04
JP5774192B2 (en) 2015-09-09

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2692025B1 (en) Modular electrical plug connector assembly
EP2989676B1 (en) Cell contacting system for an electrochemical device
EP2899812B1 (en) Connection arrangement on circuit boards
DE102013207356A1 (en) A method of making a cell contacting system for an electrochemical device and cell contacting system
DE112009000175T5 (en) Printed circuit board housing with electrical connector and thus provided electronic module
DE102009042385A9 (en) Multi Fork press-in pin
DE10338279B4 (en) connector device
DE102013209435A1 (en) Plug connection with an optimized to avoid chips guide element
EP1978600B1 (en) Board assembly
DE112014001302T5 (en) Mounting structure of an electronic component and an electrical connection box
WO2013178212A2 (en) Motor vehicle component support and method for the production thereof
DE102012205969A1 (en) sensor device
DE102020211245A1 (en) Method of manufacturing an electromechanical subassembly, subassembly and control unit
EP2514286B1 (en) Control device for a motor vehicle and related method for mounting a control device for a motor vehicle
DE102016101305B4 (en) Method of assembling a printed circuit board and printed circuit board assembly
DE102014117536A1 (en) Sensor with two angled printed circuit boards and method for the lateral connection of two printed circuit boards
DE102019113068A1 (en) Circuit board with a plug connection
DE102011003036A1 (en) Electrical plug connector for electrically connecting e.g. electrical circuit of infotainment system of motor car with plug connector counterparts, to transmit data signals, has socket apertures separated from each other by partition wall
DE102010062758A1 (en) Printed circuit board arrangement for electronic control device used in motor car, has contacting element overmolded with overmold material, which is provided at end face of upper circuit board contacted with lower circuit board
DE102016208737A1 (en) Mounting adapter and power module system
EP2534736B1 (en) Stackable clamping carrier elements for flat assemblies
EP2664032B1 (en) Contact arrangement for direct electric contacting of printed circuit boards
DE102013211976B4 (en) Press-in device for a connector module of a circuit board for a control unit of a vehicle transmission
DE102022213524A1 (en) Electronic module with integrated circuit board and connector strip
DE102021210201A1 (en) Circuit board with tolerance compensation

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20131028

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20181121

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20191011

GRAJ Information related to disapproval of communication of intention to grant by the applicant or resumption of examination proceedings by the epo deleted

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSDIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTC Intention to grant announced (deleted)
INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20200205

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1275533

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20200615

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 502012016098

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200828

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200827

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200928

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200927

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20200527

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200827

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 502012016098

Country of ref document: DE

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20210302

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20210228

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210228

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210228

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210224

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MM01

Ref document number: 1275533

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210228

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20120224

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230509

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20230426

Year of fee payment: 12

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200527

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20240222

Year of fee payment: 13

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20240229

Year of fee payment: 13

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20240222

Year of fee payment: 13